nba news

Update On NBA In-Season Tournament

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The NBA will be adding an In-Season Tournament to the schedule next year. The addition will be the first time the league has done something of this magnitude. Many fans are skeptical about what adding something like this will do to the league. However, the league is moving forward with plans for the tournament and adding incentives. On Monday, NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski tweeted the latest details on the league’s newest adventure.

Here is the latest update on the in-season tournament from Woj’s official Twitter account. “@BobbyMarks42: 2023-2024 NBA In-Season Tournament schedule is expected to include quarters, semis and finals in early December. Prize money: $500K per player on winning team, $200K per player on runner-up; $100K per on semifinal loser; $50K per quarter loser.” The league is hoping these incentives will grab the attention of the players who will be involved. However, making the tournament mean something will take a lot more work than just incentives for the athletes.

NBA Making In-Season Tournament Worth Investment

Rest has long been an issue with the league and its athletes. A in-season tournament seems to go against giving the players the rest period they are looking for. However, making it worth their while could change the minds of those that will be potentially involved. There are still so many questions about how this tournament will proceed. First off, who will receive an invite to the tournament? Is there more than money going to the winner of the tournament?

These questions will surely be answered the closer we get to next season. But it seems the league will need to work on clarifying what the in-season tournament means to all involved. However, this topic is far from the minds of everyone involved in the game. The league is currently in the midst of the playoffs. The most important time of the year for those still in the hunt. However, what are your thoughts on the NBA adding an in-season tournament? Will players want to be involved? Let us know your thoughts on the tournament in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here at HNHH.

Russell Westbrook Gives Suns Fan A Taking To In Full Uniform: Watch

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Russell Westbrook has been hit with a whole lot of disrespect this season. Overall, Russ remains one of the best point guards of the last decade. However, his play with the Los Angeles Lakers over the last season and a half was truly horrendous. Now, he is on the Los Angeles Clippers who are in tough against the Phoenix Suns. The Suns have Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, while the Clippers will have to play the first round without Paul George. Needless to say, Russ has been put in a fairly precarious and difficult situation.

Last night, Russell Westbrook and the Clippers ended up stunning the Phoenix Suns. Despite the Suns being favored, it became apparent very fast that they have no depth. If they want to win, they will need Kevin Durant and Booker to combine for 80-90 points per night. Ultimately, this is not sustainable, and Westbrook found himself taking full advantage. Although, this did not stop the star from being hit with a steady stream of slander. In fact, the clip below shows Russ confronting a fan who was way out of line.

Russell Westbrook Was Ready To Go

As you can see, the fan is sitting in some sort of lounge. He has a baseball cap, a polo shirt, and some Jordans on. Meanwhile, he appears to be drinking a beer with a kid in the vicinity. This room leads out to the court, which is a pretty bad design if you ask us. Nonetheless, Russell Westbrook has some words for the man as he was sick of some of the disrespect. That’s when Westbrook got particularly heated, saying “Watch your mouth motherf*cker.” Simply put, he was not going to allow himself to be talked to that way.

At this point, Russell Westbrook is probably never going to not be subjected to this kind of slander. However, it is good to see him standing up for himself. Hopefully, he can continue to prove all of those doubters wrong. Let us know what you think of the confrontation, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the sports world.

Paul Pierce Takes Shot At Richard Jefferson

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Paul Pierce has had a few viral moments this week. In an interview with the I AM ATHLETE Podcast, Pierce discussed a lot of major moments from his career. One of the bigger moments from his interview was the topic of his firing from ESPN. The former Celtics star still doesn’t understand how his actions led to his firing from the network. The incident that led to Pierce’s firing involved the former all-star sharing an NSFW video on his Instagram page. Pierce doesn’t believe ESPN deserves an apology from him. However, Pierce did apologize to his family, that had to deal with the situation.

However, the latest viral moment from the interview is more lighthearted. But Richard Jefferson may not feel that way. When asked about who was the best player Pierce played against in his career, one name came to mind. Pierce said Carmelo Anthony was the toughest battle every time he had to play against him. The former NBA All-Star mentioned that the physicality that Melo brought to the court was the biggest factor. After discussing the best, the debate of the most overrated came into play. That’s when Pierce answered Richard Jefferson with a big laugh.

Paul Pierce Says Richard Jefferson Is Overrated

Pierce and Jefferson were involved in a great rivalry early in their careers. Jefferson’s Nets and Pierce’s Celtics always had great battles. Including a few in the playoffs. Jefferson has become a key analyst for the NBA on ESPN. A position that Pierce once held. Maybe the answer to Jefferson being overrated is coming from more than just one place. However, Pierce didn’t seem all that serious when name-dropping Jefferson in the interview. Of course, Jefferson’s name may not be one of the first you think of when speaking of overrated.

It seems as if Paul Pierce may have just been having fun with Jefferson. It would be a hard task to call someone overrated in a public space. Pierce knows how hard it is to make it to the league. With Jefferson’s long tenure in the league, Pierce was probably just having a little fun at his expense. What are your thoughts on Pierce’s comments? Do you believe that the jab was a little fun at Jefferson’s expense? Let us know how you feel in the comment section. For the latest news on the NBA, keep it right here at HNHH.

Damian Lillard Drops “Hint” In Latest Verse

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Damia Lillard has long been known for loyalty. However, loyalty can mean a lot of things to a lot of people. Lillard hasn’t shied away from the frustrations of playing for a franchise, not in the championship mix. Now it seems as if the NBA All-Star is continuing to push a change of heart. In a recent verse dropped by Lillard, it appears as if the Portland star is speaking on his tenure with the Trail Blazers. A tenure that has been nothing short of a phenomenal run with one franchise.

In Lillard’s latest freestyle, “Heaven or Hell,” the All-Star point guard drops a line on ring chasing. “Plotting on a ring, they say I should do the Lakers. F**k that loyal s**t.” Of course, the line is just a part of Lillard’s musical freedom as an artist. However, fans will still run with the line as it is a part of Lillard’s thoughts and heart. Lillard isn’t the type to tell the world his future career plans in a situation like this. If anything, Lillard would tell the Portland franchise his future intentions before anyone else.

Damian Lillard Will Remain Loyal Until The End

However, loyalty doesn’t mean Lillard will be a Trail Blazer forever. Lillard can give everything he has to the franchise and still feel the need to move on. The same can be said for the organization. Even if fans see Damian Lillard in another uniform, he should always be remembered for loyalty. Lillard has helped lead the franchise to one Western Conference Final in his time. Unfortunately, the team came up just short of reaching the NBA Finals.

The line is just a line from someone expressing their artistic side. No one should have any opinion other than that. However, it is hard to imagine that somewhere in Lillard’s mind, he doesn’t share the sentiment. Would the Lakers even be a good destination for championship aspirations next season? Are the Trail Blazers even thinking about moving Lillard? These questions aren’t even on anyone’s radar at the moment, which is okay. However, sooner or later, these questions will be looking for answers. Let us know in the comment section below if you think Lillard is seeking a better opportunity. For the latest NBA news, stay with us here at HNHH.

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Dwyane Wade Celebrates Entering Hall Of Fame With Heartfelt Post

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Dwyane Wade has always been a player who has let his basketball speak for itself. A well-regarded figure both on and off the court, Wade truly left his mark on the NBA. During a 16-year career, Wade was a three-time champion, and 13-time All-Star. Wade is also 32nd on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, with 23,165 career points. He is perhaps best remembered for his role in the “Big Three” alongside Chris Bosh and Lebron James. Wade was seen as a no-doubt first-ballot Hall of Famer upon his retirement. However, Wade remained active in basketball following his retirement, buying a minority sh in the Utah Jazz in 2021. Wade went as far as to call then-Jazz star Donovan Mitchell “Dwyane Wade 2.0”.

Wade was officially named a Hall of Famer last week. However, he also has the distinction of being part of one of the all-time greatest Hall of Fame classes. Wade enters the Hall alongside legends such as Pau Gasol, Dirk Nowitzki, Tony Parker, Gregg Popovich, and Becky Hammon. Other inductees included the late Jim Valvano and the 1976 Women’s Olympic Basketball Team. There are few single-year Hall of Fame classes that truly compete with those entering the Hall this year.

“Basketball Heaven”

Wade celebrated his induction on Instagram, posting a bevy of photos with the simple caption “I’m both humbled and honored to have made it to basketball heaven.” The photos he included see Wade embracing his collegiate coach Shaka Smart; posing with Julius Erving; sharing a laugh with Gasol, Parker, and Nowitzski; and finally, a picture posing with Magic Johnson. The collection showcased the full scope of Dwyane Wade’s career, from his time at Marquette to his dominance in the NBA. Marquette retired Wade’s number 3 jersey in 2006. The Heat retired the same number in 2020.

Wade’s simple but heartfelt message has garnered nearly 96,000 likes, speaking to the immense popularity of one of modern basketball’s brightest stars. Fans across social media offered their congratulations to Wade upon his official announcement on April 1. Wade, alongside his fellow 2023 classmates, will be officially inducted into the Hall during the weekend of August 11th. Let us know what you think of his induction, in the comments down below.

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Grizzlies Star Ja Morant Receives Injury Update

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Ja Morant doesn’t want to push it as the Memphis Grizzlies close out the regular season. As the Grizzlies finish up back-to-back on Wednesday, Morant will unlikely play. The Grizzlies cruised to a 119-109 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday. Now it seems the team will not take any chances with their biggest superstar. Memphis has basically wrapped up the two seed in the Western Conference. This could be the reason for Morant’s apparent absence from Wednesday’s matchup with the Pelicans.

Morant has been the leader of the basketball renaissance in Memphis. The Grizzlies are a young and hungry team looking to turn heads in the 2023 NBA Playoffs. However, many in the league believe the Grizzlies are too brash about their talents. A lot has been said about Morant’s louder teammate Dillon Brooks. Brooks has slowly become one of the most synonymous trash talkers in the league. The 2022-23 season has been no picnic for Morant either.

Ja Morant To Sit Out Of Wednesday’s Matchup With The Pelicans

Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at FedExForum on April 04, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

Ja Morant’s season has been flooded with controversy. The Memphis guard was seen in a since-deleted Instagram post brandishing a firearm inside an adult entertainment establishment. The incident led to a suspension and time for Morant to understand that his actions do have consequences. Since the incident, Morant has realized that his impact on the basketball community is much larger than he expected. The Grizzlies superstar has since apologized for the incident.

There have been many reports on teams resting superstars recently. With some teams thinking about rest due to not being in the playoff hunt. While others seem to be searching for rest before making their quest to the NBA Finals. Resting before the playoffs seems like the case with Morant. However, rest isn’t always in the best interest of a team heading to the playoffs. Just ask the Lakers about rest. For the latest updates on the biggest NBA news, stay locked in here at HNHH.

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LeBron James Silences Doubters By Matching Insane Kobe Bryant Clutch Stat

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LeBron James is one of the most criticized superstars ever. Sometimes, it is hard to understand exactly why that is. Perhaps it is because he has set the bar so high that people feel the need to bring him down. Whatever the case may be, it is impossible to deny LeBron and his greatness. Overall, he is the main reason why the Lakers have clawed their way back into the playoff picture. Moreover, he has received some help from Anthony Davis, who is staying healthy. At this point, the Lakers are ready for a playoff run.

Over the years, LeBron James has been told that he isn’t “clutch” enough. People like Skip Bayless have espoused the lie that James does not possess the “clutch gene.” However, that simply is not true. James has made plenty of game-winning shots, and he will continue to do so for years to come. To claim that he somehow isn’t winning his team’s games in the clutch is ludicrous. This is especially true as James scored the game-winning layup for the Lakers in overtime against the Utah Jazz.

LeBron James Is Aging Gracefully

According to ClutchPoints, this latest clutch basket actually ties LeBron with Kobe for the most game-winning baskets within the last 30 seconds of a game, in the last 25 years. Coming into last night’s game, LeBron James had 39 such baskets, however, he now has 40. Additionally, it should be noted that this also accounts for playoff games. This only furthers LeBron’s case as a clutch player. For years, Kobe was seen as the guy you want to have take the final shot, so for LeBron to tie this record is quite something. Although, we’re sure Skip Bayless will still find a way to hate.

Now, the Lakers only have a few games left in their season. They are guaranteed to finish at least .500, which is pretty good considering where they started. Moreover, they can secure a playoff spot this week if they can win the next two games in a row against the Los Angeles Clippers. Let us know what you think of LeBron’s latest achievement, in the comments section down below.

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Joel Embiid Drops 52, Doc Rivers Makes Bold Claim About MVP Race

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The NBA MVP race has been heating up over the regular season’s final weeks. The consensus opinion was that Nikola Jokic was set to be the first three-peat MVP since Larry Bird. However, a career season by Sixers center Joel Embiid has made the race much closer. Embiid has been in the MVP conversation for the past few years, even if he has personally shunned award talk. Even as Embiid stayed focused on winning, experts began to back him for MVP. In late March, oddsmakers made Embiid odds-on favorite to win the award.

Embiid’s most recent feat of heroics came against the Boston Celtics. Embiid dropped a 52-point double-double in a 103-101 win. The win kept the Sixers in the race for the Eastern Conference’s second seed. In regards to Embiid’s MVP status, no one was more convinced following Tuesday’s win than Sixers head coach Doc Rivers. Rivers is in his third season leading the Sixers, improving year-on-year in the regular season but never progressing past the Conference Semifinals. But with Embiid’s transcendence, could this be the year?

Doc Rivers Declares MVP Race “Over”

Doc Rivers didn’t mince words when talking about Embiid’s performance, declaring that “the MVP race is over”. It’s a bold, almost hyperbolic statement on its own, but Rivers was sure to back up his claim. “The man just scored half our points,” Rivers said while acknowledging that it was a difficult win. However, the veteran head coach was not the only person to voice their support for Embiid.

“Joel should win it,” said James Harden, who scored 20 points in the win, “he’s been really consistent this year”. If Joel Embiid does win, he would be the first Sixer to be named MVP since Allen Iverson in the 2000/01 season. The Sixers have three games left to play in the regular season. They face Miami at home before playing the Hawks and Nets on the road. In the standings, Philadelphia is third in the East, two games behind the Boston Celtics. With the second seed still within reach, Doc Rivers is likely to keep letting Embiid shine.

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Andrew Wiggins Explains Why He Came Back To The Warriors

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Overall, the Golden State Warriors have struggled this season in the absence of Andrew Wiggins. During their playoff run last season, Wiggins was arguably the team’s second-best player. Moreover, to start this year, Wiggins was very solid and continued to showcase his prowess. Unfortunately, he had to leave the team for previously unknown personal reasons. Subsequently, fans began to speculate why he decided to leave. There were all sorts of nasty narratives being spouted online, however, it turns out none of them were true.

Recently, it was revealed that Wiggins would be returning to the court. This was huge news for the Warriors, who want to make a surprise playoff run. Additionally, it was revealed that Wiggins was gone to tend to his father, who is ill. Needless to say, everyone who had bad things to say about Wiggins was eating crow. Last night, Wiggins was on the bench for the latest Warriors game, and he even received a standing ovation from the team.

Andrew Wiggins Speaks

Following the game, Andrew Wiggins sat next to Warriors GM Bob Myers. During this press conference, Wiggins was asked about his decision to return. As you can see he wanted to come back because he felt comfortable doing so. Although things aren’t perfect with his family situation, he still believes he is in a position where coming back isn’t detrimental to his father. “When you’re in a certain situation and your family needs you and requires your attention and your love, that’s my first priority… We got everything settled, not fully settled, but in a safe place where I can come back,” Wiggins explained.

No matter what, it is clear that Andrew Wiggins has shown great maturity throughout this entire situation. Hopefully, he is able to get back on the court soon and show everyone what he is made of. As for the Warriors, it seems like their run for a repeat begins now. Let us know what you think of the Warriors’ chances, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news from around the sports world.

LeBron James Inundated With GOAT Noises After Monstrous Performance: Watch

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LeBron James is one of the best players in the entire history of the NBA. However, this should be known to everyone by now. Overall, he is someone who has continuously shown just how good he is, regardless of age. In fact, this season, he was able to beat the scoring record. This was seen as a massive achievement that very few people saw coming when he first stepped into the league. That said, he is a player who has a ton of accolades, and he continues to build his legendary resume.

To start the season, the Los Angeles Lakers were not very good. Consequently, they spent a lot of time in 13th place, while fans called for Russell Westbrook to be traded. Finally, that trade took place at the deadline, and the Lakers immediately became better. Since that time, LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been absolutely dominant. Last night, James even dropped 37 as he took over in overtime against the Utah Jazz. The win was huge as it put the Lakers tied for sixth in the Western Conference with the Los Angeles Clippers.

LeBron James Continues To Dominate

Subsequently, LeBron James got to speak at length with reporters following the game. His performance against the Jazz had his teammates feeling celebratory, and they let it be known. In the clip above, you can see LeBron struggle to get his thoughts out as the whole locker room begins to make GOAT noises. The whole clip is hilarious, and you can tell that LeBron appreciates it. However, there is a bit of blushing going on as he is just slightly embarrassed. Either way, it is well deserved when you consider how he has been playing.’

Now, the Lakers will have to play back-to-back games against the Los Angeles Clippers. Overall, this is going to be a lot of fun. If the Lakers can win out these two games, they will secure the sixth seed. Consequently, they will not have to face the play-in, which would be a truly shocking development. Let us know what you think of this Lakers turnaround, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the sports world.

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