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Lakers & Darvin Ham Suffering A “Disconnect” Due To Coach’s Lineup Decisions

January 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

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 Lakers fell to 2-8 in their last 10 games as Ham started Anthony Davis, LeBron, Cam Reddish, Taurean Prince, and Austin Reaves against a Jimmy Butler-less Miami Heat. However, Ham deflected any direct criticism after the loss. “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.

LeBron Blasts NBA For Missing “Obvious” Three

There’s currently a growing disconnect between Darvin Ham and Lakers locker room stemming from disjointedness around rotation and adjustments, per me and @jovanbuha.

Story at @TheAthletic on Lakers, losers of 3 in row, nine of 12 and now under .500: https://t.co/shM7alh3xy

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 4, 2024

Meanwhile, the Lakers have simply been unable to catch a break for the past month or so. LeBron put the NBA on blast after a seemingly game-tying three-point was ruled as a two-pointer against the Timberwolves on December 30. Trailing 107-104, LeBron hit what he thought was a game-tying three. However, the bucket was ruled as a two and the Lakers would go on to lose 108-106 after Anthony Edwards drew a game-sealing foul. “What the hell do we got replay for? What do we have replay for if even the replay gets it wrong? It’s just like, who is a part of the replay center? Like, do we got robots in there making Teslas? Like, what’s going on?” LeBron lamented, discussing the NBA’s replay system.

Furthermore, LeBron argued it was an obvious three. “I mean, it’s obvious it’s a 3. My foot was behind the line. You can see the space between the front of my foot and the 3-point line. You can clearly see the wood on the floor, the space in between the front of my foot and the 3-point line. Stevie Wonder can see that, champ,” LeBron continued. However, the floor chief disputed LeBron’s claims after the game. “The play was ruled a 2-point field goal on the floor during live play. After video review, there wasn’t clear and conclusive evidence to overturn it from a 2 to a 3, and that’s why it stood as a 2-point field goal,” Tony Brothers said.

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LeBron James Blasts NBA After Game-Tying Shot Controversy

December 31, 2023 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James has put the NBA on blast after a seemingly game-tying three-point was ruled as a two-pointer against the Timberwolves. Trailing 107-104, LeBron hit what he thought was a game-tying three. However, the bucket was ruled as a two and the Lakers would go on to lose 108-106 after Anthony Edwards drew a game-sealing foul. “What the hell do we got replay for? What do we have replay for if even the replay gets it wrong? It’s just like, who is a part of the replay center? Like, do we got robots in there making Teslas? Like, what’s going on?” LeBron lamented, discussing the NBA’s replay system.

Boosie Badazz Blasts NBA Refs

LeBron James: “What’s the point of having replay if even the replay gets it wrong?” pic.twitter.com/gOyctVZUZH

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 31, 2023

However, LeBron isn’t the only person who has been frustrated with the officiating this season. Boosie Badazz vented his frustration earlier this year about the high number of technical fouls being called in the NBA this season. “THE NBA NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THESE TECHINACAL FOULS FOR DUNKING N STARING AFTER THE DUNK SMH YALL TAKING AWAY FROM THE GAME N THE COMPETITIVENESS OF THE ATHLETES. ITS OUT OF CONTROL AT THIS POINT. PLAYERS N FANS DESERVE BETTER,” the rapper tweeted.

The post came just a few days after Boosie became heated at the refs during a Hawks game he was in attendance for. Boosie filmed himself yelling at the refs from the stands and later went live to further vent his frustrations. “I gotta make this announcement. We got cheated by the referees tonight. I’m so disappointed by the refs tonight. Only person that called a good game was the tall guy with the bald head … Referees called a bad game.” Boosie lamented. Additionally, the game in question was a 117-109 Atlanta loss to Miami.

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LeBron James Gives Every Lakers Teammate Personalized Greeting In Pre-Game Ritual

December 30, 2023 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James has gone viral for a very wholesome pre-game ritual. Ahead of the Lakers’ game against the conference-leading Timberwolves. The short video has LeBron greeting each of his teammates with a personalized greeting, typically with a unique handshake. Everyone appears in high spirits and it appears to be a regular thing to hype the team before a big game. Examples of LeBron’s handshakes include mustaches and head pats. Be sure to check out the full video below.

The Timberwolves have been one of the league’s hottest teams this season. They enter this game against the Lakers with a record of 23-7 and have only lost a single game at home all season. Meanwhile, the Lakers have struggled this season and enter the game at 17-15. Furthermore, the Lakers have won just six games on the road. Despite this, the Lakers have won two of their last three games. However, the last time that the two teams met, on December 21, the Timberwolves came away with an eight-point win.

LeBron James Wants To Start Streaming

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A post shared by the Jasmine BRAND (@thejasminebrand)

Meanwhile, LeBron has also suggested that he wants to start livestreaming his Madden games when he plays against other people. “Thinking of live streaming my @EAMaddenNFL games when I play. . Who should I stream with? Meaning which platform brand ,” LeBron tweeted. Of course, the Lakers star was bombarded with suggestions ranging from Twitch to Rumble to Kick to OnlyFans. Overall, people were very excited to see it happen.

LeBron would become just the latest athlete to start streaming. Packers running back AJ Dillon has gone viral in recent months for late-night Twitch streams of Farming Simulator. Dillon’s activities were particularly notable because he would often be seen streaming late into the night on days before the Packers had games. Would you like to see LeBron stream Madden? Who would you like to see him play against? Let us know in the comments.

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Saint West Turns Kim Kardashian’s Mansion Into Lakers Basketball Court On Rainy Day

December 23, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Raising one child with two parents is tricky enough for the average family to handle, yet somehow, Kim Kardashian makes taking care of four young ones as a single woman look like a breeze. Not only does she have primary custody of North and Saint West, plus their younger siblings Chicago and Psalm, but the 43-year-old also is a budding actress, oversees several thriving fashion/beauty companies, and consistently posts thirst traps on social media. Both she and her ex-husband, Ye, are creatively gifted, and as their kids grow older, its becoming more obvious that they’re beginning to pick up on similar talents of their own.

The co-parent’s eldest boy, Saint, turned eight earlier this month and is already heading toward a successful athletic career if he continues to stay disciplined. Kim and Kanye often support their son at football, basketball, and soccer games, plus we saw the adolescent and the reality starlet travel overseas to meet some of his favourite players a few months ago. Now that he’s on Christmas break, Saint is eager to spend his free time playing his favourite sports, but unfortunately, rain on Thursday (December 21) kept him stuck inside.

Saint West is Already Picking Up On Kimye’s Creativity

Saint West Lakers Court — @kimkardashian/Instagram Story

On her IG Story, Kardashian proudly showed off West’s temporary fix for the bad weather. In what appears to be the kid’s playroom, he used packing tape to lay out a custom Los Angeles Lakers court, allowing him to practice shooting hoops without catching a cold.

For now, Saint West’s interests mainly lie in the realm of sports, while his big sister, North, made it clear that she plans to own Yeezy and SKIMS one day. As they grow older Kimye’s kids will likely appreciate their mother’s effort to preserve as much of their father’s memorabilia for them as possible. Read more about recent pieces added to the family collection thanks to the generosity of Ye’s College Dropout collaborator, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.

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Christian Wood Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

December 18, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Christian Wood, recognized for his outstanding talent and contributions to the NBA, has amassed significant wealth throughout his career, boasting an estimated net worth of $5 million, according to Sportskeeda. Beyond his on-court achievements, Wood’s philanthropic efforts and strategic investments have further solidified his financial success and impact beyond basketball.

College Years & NBA Career

Hailing from UNLV (University of Nevada, Las Vegas), Christian Wood showcased his exceptional basketball skills during his collegiate tenure, catching the eye of NBA scouts. Despite going undrafted in 2015, Wood’s perseverance led him to secure spots with various NBA teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Charlotte Hornets, Milwaukee Bucks, New Orleans Pelicans, Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and currently the Los Angeles Lakers, where he plays alongside Lebron James.

Wood’s journey in the NBA saw him evolve into a versatile and impactful player, consistently demonstrating his athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess. Moreover, his contributions to multiple franchises established him as a sought-after talent in the league.

Philanthropy & Community Involvement

christian wood net worth — MIAMI, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 06: Christian Wood #35 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives against Jaime Jaquez Jr. #11 of the Miami Heat during the second quarter of the games at Kaseya Center on November 06, 2023 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

Beyond the basketball court, Christian Wood has actively engaged in philanthropic endeavors, leveraging his platform to support various charitable causes. His commitment to community development, youth empowerment programs, and initiatives aimed at education and social welfare reflects his dedication to making a positive difference off the court.

Wood’s involvement in charitable activities, including fundraisers, outreach programs, and collaborations with non-profit organizations, underscores his desire to create lasting change and uplift communities in need.

Strategic Investments & Business Ventures

Christian Wood’s financial acumen extends beyond his NBA career, as he has ventured into strategic investments and business opportunities. Leveraging his wealth and industry connections, Wood has diversified his portfolio, exploring ventures in real estate, technology, and entrepreneurial endeavors. His forward-thinking approach to investments aims to secure his financial future beyond his active playing years.

In summary, Christian Wood’s estimated net worth of $5 million signifies his remarkable success both on and off the basketball court. His journey from college standout to an NBA star, coupled with his dedication to philanthropy and astute investments, exemplifies his multifaceted approach toward achieving financial success and making a meaningful impact beyond the realm of professional basketball.

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LeBron James Wins 1st-Ever In-Season Tournament MVP As Lakers Beat Pacers In Championship Game

December 10, 2023 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Indiana Pacers in the championship game of the NBA’s new In-Season Tournament at T-Mobile Arena on Saturday night. With the win, the team became the first-ever winners of the tournament, while James took home its first Most Valuable Player award.

In the game, James recorded 24 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists across 35 minutes of play. He hit 10 of his 21 field goal attempts. Reflecting on the tournament after the win, James explained to ESPN’s Malika Andrews that it was important for him to give the winning experience to the younger guys on the team, as well as help them earn the $500,000 victory bonuses. He also took the time to praise Anthony Davis, who finished with 41 points and 20 rebounds.

LeBron James & The Lakers Celebrate NBA In-Season Tournament Win

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 09: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers hoist the trophy with his teammates after winning the championship game of the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament at T-Mobile Arena on December 09, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Winning the award certainly adds to James’ legacy. The four-time MVP will turn 39 on December 30 as he continues his 21st year in the league. Of the tournament MVP win specifically, James added: “I don’t think it’s even about the MVP, it’s about us coming together to win this thing. This is the [inaugural] in-season tournament. … Records will be broken, but one thing that will never be broken is to be the first to do something. And we’re the first champions of the in-season tournament, and nobody can ever top that, and it’s great to do it with a historical franchise and just a great cast of funny, engaged, competitive men over here.”

The Lakers Lift In-Season Tournament Trophy

Looking forward to the NBA playoffs, the Lakers currently sit at 14-9 while in 5th place in the Western Conference standings. Be on the lookout for further updates on LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on HotNewHipHop as the NBA regular season continues.

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LeBron James & Ime Udoka’s NSFW Argument Audio Leaks Online

December 3, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The audio of LeBron James and Ime Udoka’s recent fight can be heard in a new video of the incident from Saturday night in Los Angeles. In the clip, obtained by Lakers Daily, James complains about Udoka using the word, “b*tch.” For the incident, referees ejected the Houston Rockets coach.

“We all grown men,” James allegedly told Udoka. “That b*tch word ain’t cool, don’t use it so loosely. Don’t use that word so loosely. Nah, don’t use it so loosely, though. Don’t use it so loosely.” Udoka continued: “Y’all got to stop with all the b*tching man!” while adding: “Yeah, yeah, yeah I can. What does it matter what I think? Worry bout ya own self, soft ass little boy.”

LeBron James During The Lakers’ Win Over The Rockets

LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 2, 2023: Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket to score against Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) in the second quarter at Crypton.com Arena on December 2, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

Both James and Udoka were asked about the incident after the games. James said that the argument was about “Thanksgiving,” and joked: “How much we enjoyed Thanksgiving.” Udoka only referred to James as “the player” and remarked: “We had some conversation, and the refs didn’t like what they heard.” Check out the heated argument on Twitter below.

LeBron James & Ime Udoka Get Heated During The Lakers’ Win

LEAKED Audio Of Ime Udoka Trash Talking LeBron James:

Udoka: “Stop crying like b*tches, man”

LeBron: “We’re all grown men, that b*tch word ain’t cool”

Udoka: “Soft a** boy, stop b*tching. Acting like you’re gonna do something” pic.twitter.com/tmcFFsxpUu

— LegendZ (@legendz_nba) December 3, 2023

The Lakers ended up winning 107-97, improving their regular season record to 12-9. They currently rank in seventh place in the Western Conference. Be on the lookout for further updates on LeBron James and Ime Udoka on HotNewHipHop.

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Ime Udoka Ejected For Confronting LeBron James, Lakers Veteran Jokes That It Was About Thanksgiving

December 3, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Rockets head coach Ime Udoka was ejected early in the fourth quarter of Houston’s loss to the Lakers after a tense exchange of words with LeBron James. “We had some conversation and they [the referees] didn’t like what they heard,” Udoka said of the confrontation after the game. When asked about his version of events, LeBron remained equally coy. “Thanksgiving. We talked about how much we enjoyed Thanksgiving,” LeBron said playfully. The Lakers vet picked up a technical foul for his role in the dispute. However, he remained in the game.

The loss dropped Houston to 0-8 on the road this season. They are the only team yet to win away from home. However, their 8-9 record is still good enough for 10th place in the Western Conference. While the Rockets had two players surpass 20 points, there wasn’t enough consistent scoring to overcome the Lakers. Anthony Davis had a game-high 28 points for LA, while LeBron finished the night with 16. With the win, the Lakers improved to 12-9 on the year. However, they have alternated wins and losses for their last seven games.

LeBron Will Attend Bronny’s USC Debut, Even If He Has To Miss A Lakers Game

Elsewhere, LeBron recently revealed his plans regarding his son Bronny’s impending debut with USC. “Whenever he’s cleared and ready to have his first game, I already told my teammates that if they play on the same day we’re playing, I’m going to have to catch them the next game. Family over everything. But definitely got to see Bronny’s first game whenever he’s cleared and ready to go,” LeBron told reporters after the Lakers’ Thursday night loss to the Thunder.

Earlier this week, the James family announced that Bronny had received medical clearance to resume practice with USC “next week”. Furthermore, the family’s statement said that Bronny’s debut as a Trojan would come “soon after”. Of the Trojans’ next 10 games from December 11 onwards, four coincide with a Lakers’ fixture. If Bronny’s debut comes against Oregon State (December 30), Cal (January 3), Colorado (January 13), or Arizona (January 17), LeBron would be skipping a Lakers fixture. Of the four, only the matchup against Cal is a home fixture for USC. The Galen Center, USC’s home base, is a little over two miles from the Lakers’ Crypto.com Arena.

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LeBron James Shares Love For Jalen Hurts

November 30, 2023 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James has responded to the love he was shown by Eagles QB Jalen Hurts. “And it’s all love and respect right back to you Young [King]!!!” LeBron wrote in response to Hurts speaking at length about how much he admits the veteran Laker. Hurts addressed his admiration for LeBron after attending Lakers-Sixers earlier this week. “Just thought it’d be cool to go see him, and obviously I had the opportunity to meet him. I wanted him to shake my dad’s hand, too. That’s a guy that my dad has watched, being an older guy, watched him grow into the monumental figure he is now. It’s just all love and respect for him,” Hurts said at the Eagles media availability on Wednesday.

According to Hurts, the game earlier in the week was actually his first time watching LeBron in person. On the plus side, Hurts got to watch LeBron set the new NBA benchmark for career minutes played. However, Hurts was also in attendance for the worst loss of LeBron’s career, as the Lakers suffered a 44-point loss to the Sixers. LeBron had a team-high 18 points. Despite that, the Sixers drilled 22 threes. Furthermore, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey combined for 61 points. By comparison, the five Lakers starters combined for 65.

LeBron’s Age “Source Of Constant Jokes” For The Lakers

Meanwhile, a recent report has revealed that LeBron James’ age is a source of “constant jokes” amongst his Lakers teammates. “He’s always got energy. He’s the oldest player in the NBA but still acts like he’s 20 every day. Just joking around, having fun. And I think he plays the game the same way, regardless of who he’s playing. And like Rui said, any time Bron has something that pushes him a little further, you see the results like you get tonight. Like last year in the playoffs. He just did more after all of that stuff started happening,” Austin Reaves told The Los Angeles Times.

LeBron turns 39 next month and is in his 21st season. However, he has shown little sign of slowing down. “It’s staggering for a player who has 20 years under the hood already and is preparing for 21 like he’s a rookie. He’s been doing 6 a.m. workouts. Probably been in our building as much as any player this offseason. Been in the weight room as much as any player. Any team LeBron’s played for, it’s been pretty uniform that his work sets the tone. There has been nothing but an increase in seeing that here. To me, it’s let’s be about it, let’s not talk about it. He’s definitely been about it this offseason,” Lakers GM Rob Pelinka told reporters back in September. This season, LeBron is averaging 25.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game.

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Uniform From Kobe Bryant’s Last Road Game Goes Up For Auction

November 24, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The full uniform from Kobe Bryant’s final road game has been put up for auction. The jersey, shorts, and shoes come from Bryant’s 677th regular season away game, a blowout loss to the Thunder. Experts at SCP Auctions estimate that the jersey and shorts will go for over $500K while the sneakers, a pair of Nike Kobe 11s, will likely go for around $100K.

However, they are not the only Kobe-related items up for sale. There is also a signed, game-used ball from Kobe’s iconic 61-point game at Madison Square Garden. Bidding on that is already over $12,600. Meanwhile, there is also a championship ring that was originally gifted to Kobe’s father. The current bidding on that item is $44,000. All Kobe-related auctions are currently set to run until December 2.

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Victor Wembanyama Jersey Goes For Over $700K

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – APRIL 11: Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives around Kevin Durant #35 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during a NBA game at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on April 11, 2016 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images)

However, the Kobe auctions aren’t the only NBA auctions going down right now.

Victor Wembanyama’s jersey from his NBA debut has sold for $762K, nearly eight times the estimated price. The auction, handled by Sotheby’s, opened last week and closed yesterday with an anonymous bidder coming away with the one-of-a-kind item. Of course, the price tag is nowhere close to the record set by Michael Jordan‘s 1998 Finals jersey ($10.091M). However, it’s an amazing price for the jersey of a player less than 20 games into his NBA career. Furthermore, it did set a new record for the sale of an NBA rookie debut jersey. The all-time record for a full rookie uniform was set in 2021 with the sale of Kobe’s rookie kit.

A major contributing factor to the auction, which reportedly drew 62 bids alone, is how Wembanyama has gone from strength to strength over the course of his young career. Of course, Wembanyama is no ordinary rookie. The Frenchman has been professionally in the well-regarded French league since 2019. While many European players come to the NBA with prior professional experience, few have that experience at the same level or hype as Wembanyama. By comparison, two-time MVP Nikola, who played three years in Serbia before the NBA, was a mid-second-round pick in 2014.

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