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NBA Finals Prediction: Can The Mavericks Knock Off The Super Team Celtics?

June 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The NBA finals are finally upon us. The Dallas Mavericks will take on the Boston Celtics on Thursday in what should be a fascinating series of basketball, featuring two teams that have had very different roads to the final. Through 82 games, the Boston Celtics ran through the league during the regular season, finishing with an impressive 64 wins under their belt. Dallas is a different story. The Mavs were a middling team with two superstars, but their fortunes changed with a fantastic trade deadline that brought in the likes of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford. They finished the season with one of the best records after the All-Star break.

The two teams’ playoff journeys have also been vastly different. The Celtics cruised through the East to the Finals, facing overmatched competition. Add to the fact that several injuries of star players on the teams they were facing, like the Cavaliers and the Pacers, and you have a smooth run to the finals. On the other hand, the Mavericks have had a tough journey in the West, facing three 50-win teams in a row while dealing with several injuries of their own. The star-studded Finals matchup will feature several matchups and storylines. Kyrie is returning to Boston, and Porzingis is returning to Dallas. Will Jayson Tatum get his first title before Luka Doncic? The drama will undoubtedly be matched by the level of basketball that fans will be treated to. Who will come out on top? Let’s look at the matchups.

Kyrie Irving Returns To Boston

Kyrie Irving is returning to Boston after five years after his big move. Irving landed in Boston in 2017 after being traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he won a championship with LeBron James. He forced his way out of Boston in 2019. The Kyrie that was present then isn’t the same Kyrie that is in Dallas. He clearly wanted to venture out on his own and be the premier veteran on a team that could lead them to a championship. He was not up to the task in Boston or his next stop in Brooklyn, but this version of Kyrie seems to have learned from his mistakes and has stepped up as a leader. Nevertheless, Irving will not receive a warm welcome in Boston.

The Boston fans will heckle Irving like they have heckled a few other players. There is a lot of bad blood there between Irving and the fans. It’s no wonder Irving rarely plays in Boston anymore. Kyrie infamously stepped on the Celtics logo as a sign of disrespect; he has flipped off fans and astonishingly tried to cleanse the Boston arena with sage. The Kyrie return is probably the top of the list for drama in the Finals. It is unlikely the noise affects Kyrie Irving in Boston, but if he struggles early, Boston’s fans will feed into it and take it up a notch. Also of note will be his ex-teammate’s reception to him. Let’s see how the dap-ups before game 1 go between Kyrie, Jayson, and Jaylen.

Luka Doncic And Kyrie Irving Vs. Jaylen Brown And Jayson Tatum

Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are considered two of the best closers in the NBA. We saw their proficiency against the Timberwolves in late-game situations. Their shot-making ability and clutch play are both a big factor in the Finals. Luka is his own beast whose okay performances still see him dropping 30-point triple-doubles. The variety of defenders he has seen in the playoffs has been challenging, and Boston possesses great defenders to throw at him. Nevertheless, Luka has gone off on just about any defender that’s ever guarded him. Kyrie, on the other hand, might be pushed to be more of a facilitator, with the likes of the Celtic’s Jrue Holiday and Derrick White hounding him. Kyrie will look to be aggressive if Boston forces the ball out of Doncic’s hands.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are as dynamic a duo as you have in the league. They both can fill it up and are good defenders. As a duo, they don’t complement each other at times, but their success in these playoffs is due to Tatum and the Brown’s offensive onslaught. The Mavericks have some range and versatile defenders to throw at them, but big numbers should be expected, no matter the matchups. This is the chance for Tatum and Brown to finally get over the hump and win an NBA title after years of falling short. When they are in attack mode, it’s something to behold but when they and their teammates continue to settle for 3-pointers, they get in trouble. Have they learned from their Finals failure against the Golden State Warriors two seasons ago? We will see.

Kristaps Porzingis Is Ready To Go For Game 1

Kristaps Porzingis is expected to return for Game 1 of the NBA Finals barring setback, per @ShamsCharania pic.twitter.com/iV3vfXjFC7

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) June 4, 2024

Kristaps Porzingis is now expected to return in game one of the NBA Finals. After sustaining a non-contact calf injury during Game 4 of the first round against the Miami Heat, Porzingis has not appeared in a game since April 29. In that time, the Celtics defeated the Heat 4-1, went on to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1, and won the Eastern Conference Finals by sweeping the Indiana Pacers. Porzingis is the key that unlocked Boston’s powerhouse offense, which dominated the league. He is a knockdown 3-point shooter who can protect the rim like few players. He offers the Celtics a big advantage that can exploit mismatches and stretch the floor, which makes it much easier for Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to attack.

Kristaps is also set to face his former team. His tenure with Luka Doncic and the Mavs was riddled with injury issues and a lack of chemistry between himself and Luka. The environment in Dallas will be particularly antagonistic towards the Latvian international. Dallas has some serious size with Daniel Gafford and rookie Dereck Lively II, but they will have to adjust to guarding Porzingis, who is a legit perimeter threat. His presence means Dallas will have to make some tough decisions defensively in the series. A big reason Dallas was so successful against the Wolves was because of the play of their bigs. Porzingis being healthy makes the 4 and 5 matchups something to keep an eye on.

Who Will Win The NBA Finals? Our Official Prediction

Indianapolis, IN – May 27: Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, right, hugs forward Oshae Brissett after winning Game 4 of the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals. (Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Our pick for the 2024 NBA champion is the Boston Celtics. They have been dominant like few teams have been in NBA history. The Dallas Mavericks are not a very deep team, and most of the responsibility will be shouldered by Luka and Kyrie. Boston will be able to rely on guys like Derrick White and Jrue Holiday to take the load off of their stars, and that will be the difference. Porzingis being healthy seals the deal. The Boston Celtics win the series in six hard-fought games, and Jayson Tatum takes home the Finals MVP Award.

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LeBron James Has Conflicting Feelings About Kyrie Irving Making The NBA Finals

June 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James is currently on a nice vacation from the grind of the NBA Season. Meanwhile, on Thursday, the NBA Finals will begin. This year’s finals are between the Dallas Mavericks and the Boston Celtics. Overall, it is a Finals that not many people saw coming. Although the Celtics were certainly expected to go far, no one really thought the Dallas Mavericks would have what it takes to win. After all, they didn’t even make the postseason back in 2023.

However, Kyrie Irving has upped his game to a whole new level. He has hit a career resurgence, and fans have loved every second of it. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic continues to be one of the best players in the entire league. They are a dynamic duo that has started to be compared to the iconic pair of LeBron and Kyrie. These two won a title together in 2016 and fans are always reminiscing on their accomplishments. In fact, during the most recent episode of Mind The Game with JJ Redick, LeBron was asked to speak on Kyrie’s recent success.

LeBron James Reveals His Thoughts

As you will see in the clip above, LeBron is admittedly a bit jealous. Overall, he is extremely happy to see Kyrie succeed. He believes the point guard has grown a lot as a player and that it makes him proud. On the other side of that equation, he is a bit jealous and upset that he is no longer a duo with Kyrie. Clearly, LeBron understands just how talented Ky is and how he is instrumental in the Mavericks’ success. Having said that, we know who James will be rooting for come Thursday.

Be sure to let us know what you think of the LeBron James and Kyrie Irving duo, in the comments section below. Do you believe this is one of the best duos in the history of the NBA? Do you think they could have won more titles together had they both stayed in Cleveland? Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the music world. We will continue to keep you informed on all of your favorite artists and their upcoming projects.

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Joe Budden Kept The Receipts On Old Kyrie Irving Stories

May 27, 2024 by newhiphopnews

After a home victory last night, Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving and the Dallas Mavericks are one game away from the NBA finals. They’re up 3-0 on the Minnesota Timberwolves after stealing both games on the road and they’ll get the chance to sweep the Western Conference Finals series tomorrow at home. As deep playoff runs tend to, it’s sparked discussion about the legacies of some of the central players. That included Joe Budden, who is weighing in on Kyrie Irving.

Kyrie has played spectacularly in the series and will almost certainly get the chance to play for his second ring in this year’s finale. While Luka has potentially stolen much of the spotlight especially after his game-winning shot in Game 2, Kyrie’s status is also being re-assessed. Irving continues to be a controversial figure in NBA circles mostly for his tenure on the Brooklyn Nets. While there he made multiple controversial public comments that led to him being accused of antisemitism. The first headline Budden shares reads “He’s your headache now” to which he captions “best headache ever.” Check out all the posts he made reasessing old Kyrie posts below.

Joe Budden Digs Up Old Kyrie Irving Hedlines

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The Western Conference Finals isn’t the only series currently sitting at 3-0. Earlier this week the Boston Celtics took a commanding lead over the Indiana Pacers after stealing Game 3 on the road. Jayson Tatum’s Celtics remain undefeated on the road through this point in the playoffs having won 5 road games already. Later today Boston will have the chance to sweep the series. The status of the Pacers star player Tyrese Haliburton still up in the air. No team has ever come back from a 0-3 deficit in an NBA conference final series.

What do you think of Joe Budden holding onto receipts about Kyrie Irving now that the Mavs are approaching the NBA Finals? Do you agree with him that the perception around Kyrie should shift because of this playoff run? Let us know in the comment section below.

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SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Launches “The Toast” Campaign Celebrating the NBA Finals

May 20, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The NBA has unveiled its newest campaign, “The Toast,” which is now streaming across all @NBA social platforms and the NBA App. Led by NBA legend and three-time NBA Champion Dwyane Wade, the campaign gathers a star-studded cast, including Ray Allen, Magic Johnson, Queen Latifah, and more, to celebrate the pinnacle of the NBA season with a toast “to the Finals.”

“The Toast” opens with Wade delivering a tribute to the season and the champions-to-be at a glamorous affair attended by former NBA champions, fans, and celebrities. Creatively encapsulating the emotions of the Championship journey, Wade’s toast honors iconic NBA moments and figures.

NBA Chief Marketing Officer Tammy Henault expressed the campaign’s significance, stating, “As the Playoffs near a close, we are arriving at the pinnacle of the NBA season: the NBA Finals.” Henault highlighted the campaign’s aim to capture the gravity of the moment and celebrate the season behind while anticipating the excitement of what lies ahead.

The NBA Finals journey continues with the Boston Celtics facing the Indiana Pacers on May 21 at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN in the Eastern Conference Finals, and the Dallas Mavericks taking on the Minnesota Timberwolves on May 22 at 8:30 p.m. ET on TNT in the Western Conference Finals.

The 2024 NBA Finals presented by YouTube TV tips off on June 6 on ABC.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Launches “The Toast” Campaign Celebrating the NBA Finals first appeared on The Source.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Launches “The Toast” Campaign Celebrating the NBA Finals appeared first on The Source.

Noah Lyles Responds To Drake Over “World Champions” Remark: “Just Go Home, Buddy”

September 11, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Track star Noah Lyles has fired back at Drake for joining in on the criticism of his comments on the NBA Finals not being comparable to world championships in other sports. Drake was one of many voices to disagree with the opinion publically, following numerous NBA players. Lyles addressed the rapper during a new interview with TMZ.

“I do think that the point was lost,” Lyles admitted while discussing his original comments, which he says he still stands by. “At the end of the day, it was talking about how I see what we do to our national championships — I just want the same thing for our world champions. And we’re a sport where we’re bringing in the most medals every year, and it’s like nobody even knows because they don’t pay attention.” When TMZ brought up Drake’s response, he remarked, “Just go home, buddy. Go home.”

Noah Lyles At The World Athletics Championships

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – AUGUST 26: Noah Lyles of Team United States reacts after winning the Men’s 4x100m Relay Final during day eight of the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023 at National Athletics Centre on August 26, 2023 in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

As for Lyles’ controversial take, he argued at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest: “You know what hurts me the most is that I have to watch the NBA Finals and they have ‘world champion’ on their head. World champion of what? The United States? Don’t get me wrong, I love the US at times. But that ain’t the world … There ain’t no flags in the NBA.”

Noah Lyles On “World Champions” Stance

When DJ Akademiks shared the remarks on Instagram, Drake commented: “He thought this speech was gonna be so hard in the mirror the night before… now the whole league doesn’t rate u.” Kevin Durant, Aaron Gordon, Devin Booker, Damian Lillard, and many other NBA players spoke up to disagree with Lyles as well. They argued that the NBA brings in the best of the best from the entire world and thus counts as the same.

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The 7 Best NBA Finals Of All Time, Ranked

June 20, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The Denver Nuggets made history last Monday night (June 12), conquering the Miami Heat in five games to claim the coveted NBA Championship. The riveting Game 5 averaged an impressive 11.64 million viewers, according to the NBA. Only the elite ascend to the NBA Finals, a mecca where spellbinding moments of honor and agony, have been immortalized. Michael Jordan’s nonchalant shrug, Magic Johnson’s five-position game, Allen Iverson stepping over Tyronn Lue. And who could forget Ray Allen’s heroic three-pointer at the buzzer or Willis Reed hobbling onto the court despite injury? A remarkable tapestry that speaks to the heights of human achievement. In pursuit of the greatest NBA Finals of all time, we seek not only an exemplary collective performance, but also individual standouts: dazzling one-on-one duels, scintillating breakout performances, and defining moments that resonate with lasting significance.

7. Chicago Bulls Vs. Phoenix Suns (1993)

Chicago Bulls and Phoenix Suns during Game 4 of the 1993 NBA FInals. — Basketball: NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls Michael Jordan (23) in action vs Phoenix Suns at United Center. Game 4.
Chicago, IL 6/16/1993
CREDIT: Manny Millan (Photo by Manny Millan /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X44517 )

Riding on the back of an MVP season, Charles Barkley and his Phoenix Suns surged through the Western Conference. Yet, when they faced off against Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls at home, Games 1 and 2 proved to be overwhelming defeats. While they took a hard-fought Game 3 in overtime at the United Center, Jordan retaliated with a monumental 55-point outing in Game 4. Averaging an astounding 41 points for the entire series, it was clear who the true MVP was. Finally, John Paxson’s iconic game-winning jump shot in Game 6 clinched the championship for Jordan and the Bulls, marking their first three-peat and solidifying MJ as basketball royalty.

6. Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Philadelphia 76ers (1980)

Magic Johnson of the LA Lakers and Julius Irving of Philadelphia 76ers during Game 4 of the 1980 NBA Finals. — Basketball: NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers Magic Johnson (32) in action, shot vs Philadelphia 76ers Julius Erving (6). Game 4. Philadelphia, PA 5/11/1980 CREDIT: Manny Millan (Photo by Manny Millan /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X24508 )

The 1980 NBA Finals saw a battle between the experienced and the youth, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 33.4 averages indicative of his veteran finesse. Then, it was Magic Johnson’s turn; the rookie filled in for an injured Abdul-Jabbar in Game 6 and delivered a masterful performance, commanding all five positions to accumulate 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists in a game-winning 123-107 victory. It was a coming-out party for Magic; he announced himself as a star of the future, guiding the Lakers to decades of success. Meanwhile, classic footage of Dr. J’s now famous baseline reverse layup happened during Game 4.

5. Spurs Vs. Heat (2013)

Considered one of the best NBA Finals of all time, Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs and <a href= — MIAMI, FL – JUNE 06: Tony Parker #9 of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat in the first quarter during Game One of the 2013 NBA Finals at AmericanAirlines Arena on June 6, 2013 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

The Spurs surged ahead 3-2 in the series after a decisive win in Game 5. Led by Tony Parker, they built a 13-point advantage late in the third quarter of Game 6. Then Lebron James took over, masterfully rallying Miami to snatch the lead with 6:03 left. Undeterred, Parker retaliated with five swift points, securing a 93-89 lead for San Antonio with 40 seconds left. Manu Ginobili ensured victory by sinking a crucial free throw with 28 seconds remaining. Celebrations edged closer as San Antonio prepared to clinch until James’ miraculous 3-pointer kept Miami alive. With 22.9 seconds on the clock, Kawhi Leonard made it a two-possession game, yet still, James stayed undaunted, finding Chris Bosh for one of the most legendary shots in NBA history. Crowned champions in overtime, Miami solidified its legacy behind James’ memorable 32-point performance in Game 7.

4. Chicago Bulls Vs. Utah Jazz (1997)

Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz during game 2 of the 1997 NBA Finals. — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES: Chicago Bulls player Michael Jordan sticks out his tongue as he goes past Jeff Hornacek of the Utah Jazz 04 June during game two of the NBA Finals at the United Center in Chicago, IL. The Bulls lead the best-of-seven series 1-0. AFP PHOTO/Vincent LAFORET (Photo credit should read VINCENT LAFORET/AFP via Getty Images)

MJ’s greatness was indisputable, as seen in his famed Flu Game. Everyone still remembers his heroic 38-point performance in Utah—a crucial three to tie the game sealed the Bulls’ 3-2 series lead. Yet, other narratives captivated viewers. Karl Malone took MVP honors with 27.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.4 steals, despite MJ averaging 29.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.7 steals on a 69-13 Bulls team. Undeterred, Jordan drove forward to snatch the Larry O’Brien trophy from the Jazz’s grasp.

3. Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Detroit Pistons (1988)

UNITED STATES – JUNE 14: Basketball: finals, Detroit Pistons Isiah Thomas (11) in action, taking layup vs Los Angeles Lakers, Detroit, MI 6/14/1988 (Photo by Richard Mackson/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (SetNumber: X36723 TK7)

The Showtime Lakers and Bad Boy Pistons clashed in a thrilling exhibition of contrasting basketball ideologies. Magic Johnson of LA outweighed Isiah Thomas of Detroit, making for an enthralling match-up. After Pat Riley promised a repeat of the championship parade in Los Angeles, the defending champions had a target on their back for the whole season.

The first five games were split between Detroit and Los Angeles with no game being decided by single-digits. Pontiac Silverdome was bid farewell as Detroit defeated the Lakers 104-94 to take a 3-2 series lead. However, in Game 6, Isiah Thomas suffered a rolled right ankle yet still scored 11 of Detroit’s last 15 points, pushing them to an 81-79 lead. Ultimately, a neck-to-neck finish saw the Lakers win 103-102, extending the series. James Worthy dominated Game 7, delivering a 36-16-10 line to lead the Lakers to back-to-back championships. Thus, earning him the moniker of Big Game James.

2. Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Boston Celtics (1984)

Larry Bird of the Celtics and Magic Johnson of the Lakers during Game 1 of 1984 NBA Finals. — Basketball: NBA Finals: Boston Celtics Larry Bird (33) in action, layup vs Los Angeles Lakers Magic Johnson (32). Game 1.
Boston, MA 5/27/1984
CREDIT: Carl Skalak (Photo by Carl Skalak /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X30077 TK1 R5 )

Bird and Johnson, two icons, had yet to face off in the Finals for the first four years of their careers. That changed in 1984, however, with a series that lasted seven games and featured an unforgettable clothesline from Kevin McHale on Kurt Ramis. On every level, this matchup lived up to the hype—Bird averaged 27.4 points, 14.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists for the Celtics, ultimately taking home MVP honors as his team emerged triumphant in Game 7. Johnson’s averages weren’t far behind at 18.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 13.6 assists. It was an epic battle that kick-started a golden era of NBA basketball, propelling the league into mainstream stardom on the backs of Bird’s and Johnson’s fierce rivalry.

1. Cavaliers Vs. Warriors (2016)

Lebron James and Klay Thompson during NBA Finals 2016. — CLEVELAND, OH – JANUARY 18: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers posts up against Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half at Quicken Loans Arena on January 18, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

Down 3-1, LeBron James’ mission was clear: to deliver a championship to Cleveland. It was a feat he had been determined to achieve ever since joining the Cavaliers in 2003. Yet, achieving this goal seemed impossible when pitted against the Warriors’ historic 73-9 record. But LeBron and Kyrie Irving were unstoppable together, culminating in an epic Game 7 victory. In one legendary series, LeBron earned his place as the greatest player of all time.

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Conor McGregor Accused Of Raping Woman At NBA Finals

June 15, 2023 by newhiphopnews

A woman has accused MMA fighter Conor McGregor of raping her at Game 4 of the NBA Finals on June 9. The allegations were laid out in a letter from attorney Ariel Mitchell to McGregor, the NBA, and the Miami Heat. According to the letter, McGregor “violently” sexually assaulted Mitchell’s client in a bathroom at the Kaseya Center in Miami.

Furthermore, the letter accuses security guards of separating the alleged victim from her friend and forcing her into a men’s bathroom. McGregor and his own security were reportedly already inside. The MMA fighter then proceeded to “violently kiss” the woman before forcing her to perform oral sex on him, Mitchell alleges. As the letter continues, McGregor allegedly attempted to sodomize the woman. Despite this, she was reportedly able to escape after elbowing the Irish fighter repeatedly. However, she reportedly left her purse behind and had to plead for McGregor’s team to return it to her.

McGregor’s Alleged Victim Seeks Settlement

MIAMI, FLORIDA – JUNE 09: Conor McGregor is seen on the court during a timeout in Game Four of the 2023 NBA Finals between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat at Kaseya Center on June 09, 2023 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

The woman reported the assault on the morning of June 11. She was reportedly encouraged to retain an attorney by a police officer whom she spoke to at the time. In Mitchell’s letter, which was sent earlier this week, the attorney lays out her client’s preferred method of restitution. According to Mitchell, her client is seeking a settlement as opposed to litigation. The letter reportedly did not specify the amount of damages being sought.

McGregor had a fairly prominent role in Game 4 of the Finals. As well as attending the game, he was scheduled to do an advertisement for a brand of pain relief spray. However, his involvement will be remembered for hospitalizing the man playing the Heat’s mascot during the promotional skit. In regard to the rape allegations, McGregor denies any wrongdoing. “The allegations are false,” a representative for McGregor said on June 15, “Mr. McGregor will not be intimidated.” This is a developing story and any updates can be found here on HotNewHipHop.

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Drake’s NBA Finals Bets Netted The Rapper So Much Money As The Denver Nuggets Sidestepped The ‘Drake Curse’

June 13, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Drake Lil Baby & Friends Birthday Celebration Concert 2022 — Getty Image

A co-sign from Drake raises the profile of any rising musician. On the other hand, sports fans tremble when the “Search & Rescue” rapper pours his support behind their favorite teams. However, Drake’s NBA Finals bet win netted the rapper nearly a million dollars as the Denver Nuggets sidestepped the “Drake Curse.”

Yesterday, the team pulled out the Game 5 victory over the Miami Heat with the final score of 94 to 89. The musician took to Instagram to share his bets on the game. He shared two that he placed, both on June 1.

The first bet was that the series would be wrapped up in five games, with the Nuggets winning four games to Miami’s one. That bet cost $250K and would net a total return of $850K. Secondly, he bet $1 million on the Nuggets to win outright. The payout for this bet brought in $1.23 million. So, overall, Drake walked away $830K richer.

The championship is the first ever for the Nuggets, which started as an ABA team back in 1967. So, the win was a huge moment for Denver, but it seemed like star center Nikola Jokic was pretty quickly ready to move on: When he was informed that the team’s championship parade was still a few days away, he seemed genuinely bummed, saying, “No, I have to go home.”

Skip Bayless Makes The NBA Finals About LeBron James

June 13, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Skip Bayless is someone who has consistently been known as a hater. Although he has been on TV for a very long time, he has never laid off his hating ways. Overall, this is something that has rubbed a lot of people the wrong way. However, he has yet to actually change up. If you watch Bayless, you know his main target has always been LeBron James. He refuses to truly acknowledge LeBron’s greatness, even if it makes him look like a complete idiot.

That said, Skip Bayless was pretty critical of LeBron for getting swept by the Denver Nuggets. To be fair, the Nuggets were a fantastic team. They made it to the NBA Finals and ultimately beat the Miami Heat in five games. Overall, this is a series that could have very easily been a sweep. That said, with the Nuggets winning it all last night, Bayless took the opportunity to take some shots at LeBron James.

Skip Bayless Speaks

REMEMBER: LeBron had four late chances to beat the Nuggets. And in those 4th quarters, he shot 7 of 23 and 1 of 10 from 3 – and failed to hit the rim with two late shots in Game 4. LeBron’s Lakers got swept.

— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) June 13, 2023

The Lakers obviously would’ve beaten the Heat.

— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) June 13, 2023

“REMEMBER: LeBron had four late chances to beat the Nuggets,” Skip Bayless began. “And in those 4th quarters, he shot 7 of 23 and 1 of 10 from 3 – and failed to hit the rim with two late shots in Game 4. LeBron’s Lakers got swept. The Lakers obviously would’ve beaten the Heat.” Skip loves to do this thing where he sets the expectation high but claims that this is exactly what should happen. That way, when LeBron doesn’t meet expectations, he can make fun of him for it. It’s a pretty obvious tactic, and he continues to do it.

However, Skip Bayless and his show Undisputed are about to undergo some big changes. Shannon Sharpe is officially leaving the show, although it remains to be seen when that will happen. Now that the NBA Finals are over, it could be as soon as the end of the week, or maybe even today. Let us know who you think should be his next co-host, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the sports world.

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Nikola Jokic Looks Hilariously Unenthused About NBA Finals Win

June 13, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets won their first NBA title on Monday night. Overall, they had a truly incredible season. They were the best team in the Western Conference, and in the playoffs, they continued to be great. Heading into the Finals, they had only lost three times. Moreover, they lost once to the Miami Heat en route to a five-game gentleman’s sweep. Jokic was absolutely legendary during the series, and his heroics down the stretch propelled the Nuggets to their win.

However, if you paid attention to the celebration after the game, it became clear that Nikola Jokic didn’t care all that much. When presented with the Finals MVP trophy, he picked it up and immediately passed it off to head coach Michael Malone. Additionally, when asked about the parade on Thursday, Jokic said that he wasn’t excited as he just wanted to go home. As it turns out, his horses are racing on this weekend, and he wants to be home in time to see all of it take place.

Nikola Jokic Is Nonchalant

Nikola Jokic is a fun and eccentric guy who the NBA certainly needs. He doesn’t appear to have time for the extra pleasantries, and it can be quite humorous. Although some see it as disrespectful, that isn’t on purpose. Jokic just has that personality naturally and a lot of NBA fans are having fun with it. As for his teammates, they could not be more excited. Jamal Murray has gone through a lot to get to where he is now, and his emotions certainly reflected that on Monday night.

For the city of Denver, this is just an incredible time. The Colorado Avalanche won the Stanley Cup last year, and now, they have an NBA champion. Now, the Broncos and the Rockies need to start winning. Either way, this is a title that will be remembered for a very long time. Only time will tell whether or not this Nuggets team can become a proper dynasty.

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