lakers Archives - Page 5 of 16

Shaq Narrates Tribute To Kobe Ahead Of Lakers Statue Unveiling

February 8, 2024 by newhiphopnews

TNT has released a tribute to Kobe narrated by his former teammate Shaq. The brief lead-in to a day of remembrance and celebration for the Hall of Famer sees Shaq lead the viewer from Kobe’s storied career. However, the line that will stand out to most is that Shaq calls Kobe the “best teammate I ever had”. While the pair found massive success together in Los Angeles, their relationship was often strained. In the end, the culture clash between the two men would lead to Shaq getting traded away from the Lakers.

Elsewhere, the Lakers have announced that they will wear their “Black Mamba” uniform variant for their February 8 game against Denver as part of a special night honoring the late Kobe Bryant. The team is due to unveil a statue of the career Laker outside Crypto.com Arena before they face the reigning NBA champions. That game will then be played with the team wearing the special uniforms that Bryant himself designed. It will be the first time that the team has worn the uniform variant since doing so during the 2020 season following Kobe’s death.

Footage Of Kobe Bryant Taking Brandy To His Prom Emerges On Twitter

Meanwhile, An X account that shares archival footage recently shared a video of a news report about Kobe Bryant taking Brandy to his high school prom. The event happened in 1996, just months before Bryant would be drafted into the NBA. However, at the time, many of his classmates weren’t overly thrilled with the amount of attention Kobe was receiving. “It’s not Kobe Bryant’s prom, it’s Lower Merion’s prom,” one attendee noted. “Yes, this is Kobe Bryant’s prom. But it’s also everyone’s prom. This is not the Kobe Bryant prom. It’s the prom of the class of 1996,” added another.

Kobe, who was dating Brandy at the time, would arrive three hours after the prom began and was flanked by security. Despite this, a reporter was still able to ask Brandy how she felt about Kobe. As a result, the singer called the future NBA Hall of Famer “very cute”. However, the pair would quickly break up. Brandy would go on to date her “first love”, Boyz II Men lead singer Wayne Morris.

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Lakers To Wear “Black Mamba” Uniforms For Kobe Bryant Statue Unveiling

February 7, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The Lakers have announced that they will wear their “Black Mamba” uniform variant for their February 8 game against Denver as part of a special night honoring the late Kobe Bryant. The team is due to unveil a statue of the career Laker outside Crypto.com Arena before they face the reigning NBA champions. That game will then be played with the team wearing the special uniforms that Bryant himself designed. It will be the first time that the team has worn the uniform variant since doing so during the 2020 season following Kobe’s death.

The Black Mamba variant is a black and gold uniform featuring a subtle snakeskin pattern. Kobe helped design the variant in 2017, drawing inspiration from his 1996/97 rookie uniform. “LA 24” is stitched onto the belt, and the shorts include Kobe’s numbers – 8 and 24. The team first wore the variant in 2018.

Footage Of Kobe Bryant Taking Brandy To His Prom Emerges On Twitter

Kobe, who was dating Brandy at the time, would arrive three hours after the prom began and was flanked by security. Despite this, a reporter was still able to ask Brandy how she felt about Kobe. As a result, the singer called the future NBA Hall of Famer “very cute”. However, the pair would quickly break up, with Brandy going on to date her “first love”, Boyz II Men lead singer Wayne Morris.

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LeBron James Dodges Questions About Next Season

February 3, 2024 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James had a very simple answer when asked if he had thought about what he was going to do with his player option year for next season – “No.” The veteran star gave the blunt answer following a Lakers shootaround ahead of their marquee clash against the Knicks. LeBron has a $51.4 million player option for the 2024/25 with a late-July opt-in deadline. Since that deadline comes a few days after the NBA Draft, many pundits believe LeBron will wait to see if and where his son Bronny is drafted.

However, the news comes a day after LeBron’s agent shut down speculation that LeBron could be dealt at the trade deadline. “LeBron won’t be traded, and we aren’t asking to be,” Paul said in response to growing speculation that LeBron might be leaving the Lakers midseason. Of course, LeBron hasn’t helped quiet the rumors. Following a loss to the Lakers earlier this week, LeBron posted an hourglass emoji to social media.

Stephen A. Smith Wants The Knicks To Trade For LeBron James

However, Paul’s comments about his biggest client haven’t stopped people from making their trade pitches regardless. Stephen A. Smith has caused a stir after using a segment on First Take to pitch a deadline trade between his Knicks and the Lakers to acquire LeBron James. Smith’s pitch is more based on the vibes of “LeBron at MSG” rather than how LeBron would actually make the Knicks a better team. Smith’s Knicks are currently in the East and are riding a six-game winstreak. However, they recently lost the team’s second scorer, Julius Randle, until at least after the All-Star Game.

Ahead of tonight’s game against the Knicks, LeBron was asked whether he had ever considered what it would be like to have MSG as a home court. “During my free agency period in 2010, it was one of the teams that I looked at. So I’ve had that thought in my career. However, he also made it clear that his focus is the Lakers for the time being. “I’m very proud of our efforts in Boston. Those guys stepped up and played exceptional basketball. Beautiful to see. Beautiful to watch. If we can play some good basketball, string a couple wins together, and not be so Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde on any given night, then we’ll be OK,” LeBron said.

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Rich Paul Reveals If LeBron James Will Be Traded At The Deadline

February 2, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Rich Paul has shut down any speculation that LeBron James will be traded at the NBA trade deadline. “LeBron won’t be traded, and we aren’t asking to be,” Paul said in response to growing speculation that LeBron might be leaving the Lakers midseason. Of course, LeBron hasn’t helped quiet the rumors. Following a loss to the Lakers earlier this week, LeBron posted an hourglass emoji to social media.

The Lakers are 25-25 and sit in 9th in the Western Conference. LeBron sat out the team’s 50th game, a surprise win over the Celtics that showcased the team’s young and emerging talent. However, the Lakers have reportedly been active in trade talks as they look to bolster the roster for the final 32 games of the season.

Stephen A. Smith Eager For The Knicks To Trade For LeBron James

“LeBron won’t be traded, and we aren’t asking to be,”

– Rich Paul

(Via ESPN) pic.twitter.com/PafYfJX6OS

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 2, 2024

However, fans are absolutely not in agreement with the ESPN host. “Who’s gonna tell him that move by itself would almost singlehandedly destroy everything the Knicks have built Last thing I want on the Knicks is a 39 year-old player GM who is clearly holding his own team back in noticeable ways,” one fan noted. “WE DONT WANT LEBRON. NOT TRADING ASSETS FOR A 39 YEAR OLD PLAYER WHO WILL DIP IN THE SUMMER TO PLAY WITH BRONNY. He’s not as good as Randle in the year 2024. Where are the Lakes this season and where are the Knicks? I’m soooo good on this. He had his chance in 2010,” concurred another.

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LeBron James Drops Cryptic Tweet Amid Public Frustrations With The Lakers

January 31, 2024 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James has posted a cryptic message to social media amid a period of vocal frustration with the Lakers. LeBron posted a tweet with a single hourglass emoji shortly after the Lakers lost on the road to Atlanta. Could this mean that “time is running out” for LeBron’s tenure in LA? After all, LeBron’s contract with the team, which runs through the end of next season, was signed on the notion of the Lakers being a championship contender.

Furthermore, as mentioned, LeBron has been open about his frustrations with the team over the past few weeks. “We could on any given night beat any team in the NBA. And then on any given night we could get our ass kicked,” LeBron said after the Lakers fell to the Hawks and dropped to 24-25 on the season. The Lakers have plummeted in the standings after winning the inaugural In-Season Tournament in mid-December. They have won just 10 games since that December 9 over Indiana.

Lakers Losing LeBron James And The Locker Room

LeBron James on the 24-25 Lakers: “We could on any given night beat any team in the NBA. And then on any given night we could get our ass kicked” pic.twitter.com/IlKra5XAmy

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 31, 2024

However, this is just the latest blunt assessment that LeBron has offered amid the team’s continued woes. “I mean, we just suck right now,” LeBron told reporters after a January 4 loss to Memphis. Furthermore, he railed against people using the aforementioned IST as a barometer of team success. “That was just two games. It’s a small sample. Everyone is getting so cracked up about Vegas and keep bringing up Vegas. It was two games. We took care of that business. It was the in-season tournament, we played it, we won it. But that was literally just two games,” LeBron added at the time.

Despite the growing mutiny in the Lakers locker room, the organization appears set on retaining head coach Darvin Ham as the team leader. While injuries have played a major role in the lack of team consistency, Ham’s offseason decisions and ongoing roster choices continue to baffle both fans and players alike. The Lakers are next in action against the Celtics on February 2.

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Nicki Minaj’s “Big Foot” Played Before Hawks & Lakers Game: Watch

January 31, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The Hawks appeared to reveal which side of the Nicki Minaj–Megan Thee Stallion beef they, or at least their arena PA operator, were on as Minaj’s “Big Foot” was heard at State Farm Arena prior to the team’s game against the Lakers. The diss track, released last Sunday, was the most notable addition to the pre-game mix as fans entered the arena. The footage quickly went viral, with commenters online calling the PA operator “messy” as a result.

The song choice appeared to inspire Atlanta as the Hawks controlled the game wire-to-wire and came away with a 16-point win. Trae Young and Dejounte Murray combined for 50 points as the Lakers played without Anthony Davis. Austin Reaves led LA with 28 points while LeBron had 20. Once again under .500, things don’t get easier for the Lakers as they travel to Boston to face the league-best Celtics.

Nicki Minaj Releases A Capella Version Of “Big Foot”

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Last weekend was dominated by news of Minaj’s beef with Megan, culminating in her release of “Big Foot”. However, the commercial release wasn’t the only thing to come out of Minaj’s camp. “Good Day, #GagCity. I’ll also release the a capella so other producers all around the world can make their own beat to #BigFoot . The Generous Queen will ALWAYS remain generous. What y’all doing? PinkFriday2 is PLATINUM. My TOP 5 today is Fallin4U FTCU Everybody BarbieDangerous BeepBeep ft 50 Cent,” Minaj tweeted prior to the song’s release.

Minaj also hinted at having more diss tracks beyond “Big Foot”. “After the 1st one drop, if dat pussy ass hoe so much as BREATHE wrong ima empty da clip. If that pussy ass hoe deny 1THING I say, I’m posting every fkn receipt known to man. 5. Yes you heard me! Did 5 extra songs. we’ve been waiting on u HO. Play #PinkFriday2 NON STOP barbz. LuvU,” Minaj wrote. However, she then took issue with Pop Base reporting the post as being about Megan. “Never said that ugly name. Stop lying on me. You want engagement so bad. Ima put your REAL name in the 2nd song just for shits & giggles. Go to bed ,” Minaj followed up.

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D’Angelo Russell Net Worth 2024: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

D’Angelo Russell, the dynamic point guard, has not only made a name for himself on the basketball court but has also amassed significant wealth. As of 2024, his net worth stands at an impressive $25 million, according to Sportskeeda. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of D’Angelo Russell, from his college years to his transition into the NBA, exploring the highlights of his career and the factors contributing to his notable net worth.

The Early Years & College Success

D’Angelo Russell’s journey to NBA stardom began in Louisville, Kentucky, where he honed his basketball skills from a young age. His remarkable talent caught the attention of scouts, leading him to become a standout player at Montverde Academy in Florida. Russell’s exceptional performances earned him a scholarship to Ohio State University.

During his college years, Russell became a household name in NCAA basketball. In his freshman season with the Ohio State Buckeyes, he showcased his scoring prowess, averaging an impressive 19.3 points per game. His ability to read the game and make precise plays earned him recognition as one of the top prospects for the NBA draft.

Transition To The NBA & Career Highlights

In 2015, D’Angelo Russell declared for the NBA draft, and the Los Angeles Lakers selected him as the second overall pick. This marked the beginning of his professional career. Russell’s transition to the NBA was met with high expectations, and he didn’t disappoint. His rookie season showcased his scoring ability, court vision, and knack for making clutch plays.

Throughout his NBA career, D’Angelo Russell has played for multiple teams, including the Lakers, Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves. His stint with the Brooklyn Nets was particularly noteworthy, as he became an All-Star in the 2018-2019 season. Russell’s prolific scoring and playmaking abilities solidified his status as one of the league’s elite point guards.

Notable career highlights include buzzer-beaters, triple-doubles, and memorable performances in critical playoff games. His on-court success not only earned him accolades but also contributed significantly to his growing net worth, as endorsement deals and sponsorships followed his rise to stardom.

Factors Contributing To D’Angelo Russell’s Net Worth

Beyond his achievements on the court, D’Angelo Russell has diversified his income streams, enhancing his net worth. Endorsement deals with major brands, including sportswear giants and lifestyle brands, have added substantial value to his financial portfolio. Russell’s marketability, charisma, and on-court success have made him a sought-after figure for brand partnerships.

Additionally, wise financial management and investments have played a crucial role in Russell’s accumulation of wealth. Many NBA players face challenges in handling sudden fame and fortune, but Russell’s strategic approach to his finances has positioned him as a savvy entrepreneur off the court.

While the NBA provides a substantial income for players, maximizing earnings through smart financial decisions and business ventures has become a hallmark of D’Angelo Russell’s career. This multifaceted approach to wealth-building has undoubtedly contributed to his impressive $25 million net worth in 2024.

Conclusion

In conclusion, D’Angelo Russell’s journey from a young basketball talent in Kentucky to a seasoned NBA star has been nothing short of remarkable. His college success, transition to the NBA, and numerous career highlights have not only solidified his place in basketball history but also contributed significantly to his net worth. With a combination of on-court excellence, lucrative endorsements, and smart financial decisions, Russell has built a financial legacy that reflects his prowess both on and off the basketball court.

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Lebron James Watches Bronny’s USC Game While Doing Media Interviews

January 18, 2024 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James was a little more distracted than usual during his post-game media interviews, as he tried to watch his son Bronny take on Arizona at the same time. The first indication that James was not giving the media his full attention was when he rebuffed scrum reporters in the tunnel saying he had to go watch Bronny. While James did fulfill his media obligations, he would often look past the reporters to focus on the screen showing the USC game.

However, he focused a little more when one reporter asked him whether it was tougher to lose with the Lakers or watch Bronny and USC struggle. “Watching college basketball alone is tough. Then you add my son in there, it’s even … yeah, yeah, cause I’m … it’s hard to watch. It’s hard to watch. Yeah, I’m a dad, but also, love the game of basketball and college basketball, just, it’s like ten people in the paint at the same time. It’s very hard at times to watch. But USC’s a great program, Arizona’s a great program, you get a good opportunity to watch some good basketball in this game,” James said.

LeBron Wins, Bronny Loses

LeBron was locked into Bronny’s game while speaking to the media lmao pic.twitter.com/nZEgsLZB1M

— Oh no he didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) January 18, 2024

The Lakers moved back to a .500 record with a big win over the Dallas Mavericks. James went 25/8/8 on the night while Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell also both recorded 25+ points. The Lakers have now won four of their last six games as fans hope that their dismal post-IST run is now at an end. The team is next in action against the Nets on January 19.

However, Bronny and the Trojans weren’t as fortunate. With Kevin Durant courtside, the younger James played well but the No. 12 Wildcats played better. The 82-67 loss dropped USC to 8-10 and marked their third consecutive loss. The Trojans are now second-to-last in the Pac-12, having started conference play 2-5. Despite this, Bronny’s 11/5/6 impressed Durant. “He was aggressive. He played well,” the Suns star said. However, James’ aggressive play proved costly, as he also committed five turnovers. Next up for the Trojans is 10-7 (4-2 Pac-12) Arizona State.

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Bronny James’ First USC Start Ends As A Scoreless Nightmare

January 14, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Bronny James went 0-for-7 and only managed two rebounds and an assist in his first start for USC. James was elevated for the starting line-up as USC adjusted to compensate for a spate of injuries. However, the son of LeBron James made little impact in either half of the game, as Colorado slowly took over to take a 68-58 win. The loss drops the Trojans to 8-9 on the season and a lowly ninth in the Pac-12. In nine games, Bronny is averaging 5.2 points and 2.2 rebounds. He is yet to live up to his top-20 prospect billing.

However, things don’t get easier for USC. The team stays on the road for their Arizona swing, which includes No. 8 Arizona. The Trojans, projected to finish second in the Pac-12, have lost four of their first six conference games. This includes a loss to Oregon, who are 5-0 in conference play. According to the latest Bracketology from ESPN, USC is not currently a March Madness team.

LeBron James Sits Out Lakers Loss

Bronny James in his first college start: 0-7 FGs, 0-3 3FGs, two rebounds, one assist, blocked twice.

Tough.

— Scott Procter (@ScottProcter_) January 14, 2024

Meanwhile, there wasn’t much for the James family to celebrate. LeBron missed his fourth game of the season through injury, sitting out a matchup against Utah. Despite Anthony Davis recording his second career triple-double, the Lakers were soundly beaten. Davis, who had six turnovers and shot 5-for-21 on the night, blamed himself. “Everyone did their job except me. I didn’t do my job. Obviously, Bron was out and everyone had to step up and those guys did. Except myself. So this one’s on me,” Davis said.

Like the younger James and USC, LeBron and the Lakers are now 2-4 in their last six games. The Lakers are 19-21 and now sit outside the playoff bubble. The team is 11th in the Western Conference and one game back from the 10th-place Rockets. The team now heads back to Crypto.com Arena for a four-game homestand, facing Oklahoma City, Dallas, Brooklyn, and Portland. LeBron is expected to return to the lineup in due course.

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LeBron James Blasts Lakers For Losing Streak, Pressure Mounts On Head Coach Darvin Ham

January 6, 2024 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James was blunt in his assessment of the Lakers as the team dropped their fourth consecutive game and remained at a dismal 2-8 record in their last 10 games. “I mean, we just suck right now,” LeBron told reporters after the 127-113 loss to Memphis. Furthermore, LeBron pushed back at people using the Lakers’ In-Season Tournament title as evidence of the team’s trajectory. “That was just two games. It’s a small sample. Everyone is getting so cracked up about Vegas and keep bringing up Vegas. It was two games. We took care of that business. It was the in-season tournament, we played it, we won it. But that was literally just two games.”

Meanwhile, head coach Darvin Ham does not appear concerned about his job security despite the Lakers’ skid. “I’m solid. My governor, Jeanie Buss, the boss lady; our president, Robert Pelinka — we’re all aligned. As long as they’re not saying it, I guess I’m good. Which I know how they feel about me and the situation we’re currently in,” Ham said. However, those comments were made before the Grizzlies beat LA.

“Growing Disconnect” Between Ham And Lakers

LeBron James: “We suck right now.” He also framed LAL’s in-season tournament as “only two games,” suggesting that championship should be given the proper weight pic.twitter.com/a1IaENpWyh

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 6, 2024

Speculation about Ham’s future with the Lakers reached fever pitch earlier this week. Per Shams Charaina, there is a “growing disconnect” between the Lakers roster and coach Darvin Ham over the latter’s lineup choices. “There’s currently a deepening disconnect between Darvin Ham and the Lakers locker room, six sources with direct knowledge of the situation say, raising questions about the head coach’s standing. The people spoke with The Athletic on condition of anonymity so that they could speak freely on the matter. Those sources have described that the disjointedness between the coach and team has stemmed from the extreme rotation and starting lineup adjustments recently from Ham, leading to a fluctuating rhythm for several players across the roster,” Charaina and Jovan Buah wrote for The Athletic.

The report came after the Heat, without Jimmy Butler, beat a starting lineup of Anthony Davis, LeBron, Cam Reddish, Taurean Prince, and Austin Reaves. Ham used the same starters against Memphis. However, like he did before the Memphis game, Ham deflected any criticism after falling to Miami. “It’s a little bit of everything right now. We’re not executing. That team played harder than us tonight, executed better than us tonight, more physical than us tonight. We got outworked tonight, so it’s a bit of everything right now,” Ham said.

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