NBA

SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Launches ‘Playoff Mode. It’s a Thing’ Campaign Narrated by Chris Rock

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NBA Launches 'Playoff Mode. It’s a Thing' Campaign Narrated by Chris Rock

The NBA has unveiled its latest campaign, “Playoff Mode. It’s a Thing,” now available on all @NBA social platforms and the NBA App. Premiering during tonight’s 2024 SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament on TNT, the campaign captures the intensity and excitement of the postseason journey as teams vie for a spot in the NBA Playoffs presented by Google Pixel.

Narrated by actor and comedian Chris Rock, the campaign features NBA stars like Nikola Jokić, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards, and Damian Lillard, alongside ESPN’s Malika Andrews and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. The film opens with Tatum facing the “Playoff Jayson” question, sparking a debate among players and personalities. Despite denials, the highlights speak volumes, leading Rock to conclude that “Playoff Mode” is a thing.

Directed by Felix Brady and created with Translation, the campaign will be complemented by a print, digital, and audio initiative, with high-impact placements across various platforms. Additionally, the NBA introduces its first signature sonic brand identity, capturing the essence of the game’s sounds and enhancing the fan experience across digital platforms.

“The campaign plays on the idea that the playoffs unlock an elevated version of all of us, from passionate fans to the unrivaled competitors across the league,” said NBA Chief Marketing Officer Tammy Henault. “We are also thrilled to unveil a new original sound that captures the spirit of the game, and over time, will build association with our fans around the world, instantly igniting their excitement for the NBA.”

The SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament kicks off tonight on TNT, followed by games on ESPN on Wednesday. The NBA Playoffs, presented by Google Pixel, commence on Saturday, April 20, promising an electrifying postseason journey for fans worldwide.

You can see it below.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Launches ‘Playoff Mode. It’s a Thing’ Campaign Narrated by Chris Rock first appeared on The Source.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Launches ‘Playoff Mode. It’s a Thing’ Campaign Narrated by Chris Rock appeared first on The Source.

SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Scores Big with Kendall-Jackson Winery Partnership

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The National Basketball Association (NBA) has announced a groundbreaking multiyear partnership with Kendall-Jackson Winery, marking the league’s inaugural official winery collaboration. As part of the deal, Kendall-Jackson becomes the Official Wine of the NBA and USA Basketball, while La Crema, a subsidiary of Jackson Family Wines, becomes the Official Wine of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).

This unprecedented agreement intertwines the realms of fine wine and basketball, spotlighting shared values of excellence and community between the brands. Kendall-Jackson, a renowned family-owned winery hailing from California, will curate elevated experiences for players, coaches, and fans, featuring wine tastings and educational initiatives to deepen appreciation for wine culture.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kendall-Jackson to the family as the NBA’s official wine partner and look forward to future collaborations across the broad portfolio of Jackson Family Wines brands,” said Julie Morris, NBA Senior Vice President of Commercial Development and Media. “This collaboration recognizes the dynamic interests of our players and fans and uniquely blends the culture of wine with the excitement of the game.”

“Our partnership with the NBA is a natural extension of our shared values and our commitment to embracing the evolving landscape of culture and taste,” said Chris Jackson, Co-Proprietor for Kendall-Jackson. “It’s about enriching the fan experience by blending the passion for the game with the artistry of winemaking. As we embark on this exciting journey together, we are setting the stage for a future where wine converges in unexpected and exhilarating ways.”

Among the highlights, Kendall-Jackson will headline the NBA Experiences Dinner Series, an exclusive fan engagement initiative during marquee league events. Moreover, the winery will co-host the NBA Con alongside the NBA 2K Summer League, enriching the fan experience with pop-up tasting rooms and interactive showcases.

This partnership, rooted in a shared commitment to community, originated during the NBA Restart in 2020 when Kendall-Jackson recognized the league’s burgeoning interest in wine culture amid the pandemic. Virtual tastings and educational sessions ensued, reinforcing bonds of camaraderie and shared experiences.

Notably, Kendall-Jackson will also headline USA Basketball’s 50th Anniversary event, aligning with its historical roots dating back to 1974. As part of Jackson Family Wines, Kendall-Jackson joins a prestigious global portfolio, which includes La Crema, the designated wine partner for the WNBA.

In a statement, the NBA Commissioner expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing its potential to enrich fan engagement and celebrate shared values in sports and wine culture.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Scores Big with Kendall-Jackson Winery Partnership first appeared on The Source.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: NBA Scores Big with Kendall-Jackson Winery Partnership appeared first on The Source.

Toronto Raptors Jontay Porter Under Gambling Investigation

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The Toronto Raptors are just the latest sports franchise facing serious allegations pertaining to sports gambling. Just earlier today, the Los Angeles Dodgers faced a similar uncomfortable situation. The Dodgers newest star, Shohei Ohtani is now fighting for his innocence that he wasn’t involved in a sports gambling ring ran by his interpreter. Now, we have sports gambling news in the NBA.

Per a report by NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Raptors center Jontay Porter will sit out of tonight’s game as the NBA investigates a sports gambling situation; Wojnarowski stated on Twitter/X, “Toronto Raptors center Jontay Porter is out of the lineup and a subject of an NBA investigation into irregularities on prop betting involving him.” The news is certainly going to send shockwaves throughout the entire NBA community.

Read More: NFL Fans Heated After League Bans Hip-Drop Tackle

Toronto Raptors Fully Cooperating With The NBA

More and more stories seem to be coming out about athletes and gambling. Fans have seen this at the college and professional levels. The NFL has hit the hammer on numerous players for betting even on sports that weren’t football because they were found gambling on the team’s property. Once again, this is another story that will take some time to figure out the truth, but it is another blackeye for professional sports.

Sports gambling, when done right and legally, has grown in every aspect of sporting events. However, just like with anything else, abusers tend to ruin the fun for everyone else. Except this time it won’t be as easy to escape the issue. Every sports league is now in bed with multiple sports gambling companies. Which means bottom lines are now affected. Do you believe that professional sports have a bigger issue with sports gambling then we know? Let us know in our comment section. For the latest news in sports, stay locked in with us at HNHH.

Read More: Eli Manning Has Simple Response To Deion Sanders

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Gilbert Arenas & Nick Young Flame Iggy Azalea’s Career

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After just covering how fun it can be to listen to Gilbert Arenas talk about basketball, the former NBA star is in another headline for another reason. This time, it’s not so much about fun as it is about clowning a friend’s famous ex-girlfriend. Arenas and former Los Angeles Lakers guard Nick Young sit down for an interview where the conversation of Young’s love life came up. The discussion between Young and former girlfriend Iggy Azalea was brought to the forefront. But it was Arenas who wasted no time in answering questions about the past relationship.

In the video, you can clearly see that Young looks a little hesitant to discuss the matter. However, Arenas should have spent more time in bringing down the pop star rather quickly. During the conversation Arenas mentioned that Young was a bigger star than her when they first got together. As well as saying ever since they broke up, Azalea has never been anything. While Young may have looked hesitant at first, he had a few laughs with Arenas over the situation. Check out the clip below.

Read More: Iggy Azalea Loves Lying To Men According To Her Latest Curvaceous Snaps

Gilbert Arenas Doesn’t Hold Back Any Ill Will Toward Iggy Azalea

However, it seems that the breakup between Azalea and Young wasn’t one in which both sides ended on good terms. According to Young, Azalea took everything when the couple decided to call it quits, including the furniture. However, if you ever needed a hype man with you after a breakup, it feels that Arenas would be the perfect candidate. Although we may never know the whole situation, airing dirty laundry is never the best look.

No breakup is ever completely clean, and it looks like the story here fits that bill. But there is enough to past that Young and Arenas should be able to move on from the discussion in a more professional manner. Do you think this conversation was handled right by the former NBA stars? If not, how do you believe it should have been handled? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For the latest news in sports and pop culture, stick with us here at HNHH.

Read More: Gilbert Arenas Breaks Down Issue With Chris Paul & Tony Brothers

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Gilbert Arenas Breaks Down Issue With Chris Paul & Tony Brothers

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Gilbert Arenas has become a media star with his show Gil’s Arena. The show breaks down the latest happenings in the NBA and around the sports world. Recently, Arenas and the crew discussed the technical that Warriors guard Chris Paul received on Friday night. After the game Paul stated to the media he received the technical from official Tony Brothers due to Paul calling him a TikToker. Which ultimately sounds like the strangest way to receive a technical.

Arenas had a little fun with Paul’s comments stating, “You on TikTok, TikTokin’, then you get mad I call you a TikToker?” After Paul spoke to the media on Saturday, he posted a Tik Tok video of Tony Brothers on his Instagram page. So, it does seem that Paul believes Brothers is worried about his Tik Tok fame. As well as Brothers may be offended by being a Tik Tok Star in the eyes of Paul. Whatever the case may be, Arenas couldn’t help but laugh at the situation. Check out the video clip below of Arenas discussing the situation.

Read More: Shannon Sharpe Goes In On Jalen Green’s Off The Court Activities

Gilbert Arenas Pokes Fun At Strange Situation Involving CP3

To make matters worse, the Indiana Pacers defeated the Golden State Warriors in Friday’s matchup 123-111. The Warriors are starting to hit desperation mode as they hang on to the last playoff spot in the Western Conference. However, the Houston Rockets trail the Warriors just one spot for the coveted prize.

All in all, the situation seems silly when you sit back and think about it. However, what side you tend to agree with could shape which part of the equation you deem the most ridiculous. So, what side do you stand on. Was Brothers right for calling the technical? Or are well all with Arenas and this is something we can laugh off? Let us know in the comments where you stand. For the latest news in sports and pop culture, keep it right here with HNHH.

Read More: Draymond Green Doesn’t “Give A Damn” About The Rockets

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Mike Greenberg Has Fans Up In Arms With UConn NBA Playoffs Hot Take

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Mike Greenberg has watched and studied enough sports in his long broadcasting career to know when something sounds off. However, sometimes, a thought can cross your mind that makes you believe even the most asinine ideas. This has to be the case with the latest statement Greenberg made this morning on ESPN’s Get Up. When discussing the UConn Huskies men’s basketball team, the long time host had high praise for the program. So much high praise that he believes they could compete with NBA teams.

In a quick statement between Jay Williams’s breakdown of the Huskies, here’s what Greenberg had to say, “[UConn men’s basketball] would make the playoffs in the NBA’s Eastern Conference. That’s how good they are.” An absolutely disrespectful comment to make to all of the NBA team’s that may have heard it. But it doesn’t seem like Greenberg regrets what he said. However, some fans immediately took to Twitter/X to call out Greenberg’s comments. Take a look at some of the best reactions below.

Read More: UNC Basketball Player Tries To Play Up Kylie Jenner Rumor

Mike Greenberg’s Asinine Comments Bring Out The Anger From Fans

Best Reactions

Greenberg’s message was not as well received as he may have thought. Most of the interactions to his statement were most saying this is the dumbest thing they ever heard. Which is a fair assessment. For instance, way back in 2015, many believed that the Kentucky Wildcats were destined to finish the college basketball season undefeated. So of course many were saying silly things like what Greenberg did today, that the team could defeat an NBA team. Long story shot, Kentucky didn’t even make the National Championship that season.

So, long story short, saying that a college team could beat a professional team in any sport is a dumb comment. Yes, we’ve all heard the tales of a team entire of college stars besting the 1992 Dream Team in a scrimmage. But let’s be real, the Dream Team would have smoked them by as much as they wanted to if the stakes mattered. What are your thoughts on Greenberg’s comment? Sound off in the comments. For the latest news in sports, keep it here with us at HNHH.

Read More: Angel Reese & LSU Survive March Madness Scare

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LeBron James Opens Up On Why He Started New Podcast

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LeBron James is one of the greatest to ever play the game of basketball. Some will even argue that he is the greatest to ever lace up a pair of shoes. However, after collecting every accolade a player can earn during his career, what is there left for James to do? Well, that answer is easy, start a podcast of course. Alongside NBA veteran JJ Redick, James has started a podcast called Mind the Game. This venture is sure to gain a massive audience rather quickly, and for good reason.

After the Lakers big victory over the Indiana Pacers James was asked about the podcast, and the idea behind it. Here’s an excerpt of what James had to say. “We was losing the essence of the game of basketball and the true meaning behind the game. I was getting very frustrated with the daily comparisons every single day.” The NBA legend believes the actual game is getting lost behind the comparisons of the greats of every generation. To hear the audio of his comments, check out the video below.

Read More: LeBron James Wants To Start Streaming

LeBron James Wants To Focus On The Game In His New Podcast

Conversations about the game of basketball are more often than not arguments. But it isn’t about debating the game that is currently being played, more of who would be the best at certain position or situation. Educating fans about the game and its history is far more intriguing than arguing why player A or player B having the better career. Which is why bringing in Redick was an excellent choice to help James create a path in the podcast genre.

This podcast is destined to be a success because fans are starving for more than just a headline. Having one of the greatest to ever play the game and teach the game inside and out would be a fantastic listen. However, can it shake the constant headline-chasing that podcasts do? Do you see yourself listening to James and Redick regularly? If not, tell us why in the comment section. For the latest news in sports and pop culture, stick with us here at HNHH.

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

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Draymond Green Doesn’t “Give A Damn” About The Rockets

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Draymond Green has long been known as one of the more outspoken NBA players. Sometimes, that leads to trouble, and other times, it leads to just some good old-fashioned smack talk. Green’s latest quote can be put under the label of some good smack talk. When asked about if he is keeping up with how the Houston Rockets were doing each night, Green kept his answer simple, he don’t give a damn.

The statement was quick and efficient for the point that Green was trying to make to the media. The Rockets are in a tightly contested battle with the Golden State Warriors for the final spot in the NBA Playoffs on the Western Conference side. However, Green wasn’t sharing any insight he may have about how he and his team feel about what the Rockets are doing. Which is actually the right attitude to have. Check out the clip of Green’s statement below.

Read More: Draymond Green Calls Out Kevin Durant

Draymond Green Only Worried About His Team’s Playoff Push

The Rockets trail the Warriors by just one game for the coveted final playoff spot. As tensions grow higher, every game matters from here until the rest of the season. The Warriors will play the Rockets just one more time in the regular season. The meeting takes place on April 4th, when the Warriors will travel to Houston for the marquee matchup. A game that will be must see for all NBA fans.

So, just from Green’s comments it’s easy to see that this playoff push is starting to lie on the shoulders of the player’s. Do you think the Warriors have one more playoff run in them. Or, will this current team need a much needed makeover to be more competitive next season? Let us know your opinion in the comment section. For the latest news in the NBA and sports, keep it right here with HNHH.

Read More: Draymond Green Returning To Warriors Facility

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Gilbert Arenas Has No Problem With Kobe Bryant’s Parents Selling His Championship Rings

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Gilbert Arenas has defended the parents of Kobe Bryant from critics who have taken issue with their decision to sell their son’s championship rings. “They broke. They got no money. You can’t be mad because they’re selling the rings. The money wasn’t left to them. They tryna eat,” Arenas argued. While Kobe’s will has never been made public, it is believed that almost all of his money went to his wife Vanessa.

Of course, that decision in itself has been criticized online. Dr. Umar took aim at Vanessa last year for not spending the money she inherited on the Black community. Umar pointed to a “sports initiative” that Bryant recently started with “six predominantly white colleges”. Umar’s anger came as a result of Bryant not “choosing a single HBCU”. Umar was referring to the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation. In September, the foundation announced partnerships with UConn, USC, Kentucky, Oregon, Duke, and LSU. Of note – UConn was seen as the frontrunner in the recruitment of Gigi Bryant before her death.

Read More: Saucy Santana Checks Gilbert Arenas For Laughing About Friendship With Nick Young

Cam’ron Blasts Gilbert Arenas For Approving Of Saucy Santana’s Twerking

Elsewhere, Cam’ron once again showed his deep-seated homophobia as he reacted to Gilbert Arenas speaking positively about a video of Saucy Santana twerking. The It Is What It Is host told Arenas to focus on “female a–es” instead of praising Santana. As mentioned, this is just the latest example of Cam’ron very publicly having issues with men expressing an attraction or appreciation for other men. He and fellow host Ma$e cried with laughter about Dwyane Wade painting his nails. Furthermore, the pair has gone as far as to suggest that queer athletes should be segregated from their straight teammates.

However, Cam’ron also gets very upset if you suggest he is gay. “You know how long I had to hear, ‘Cam’s gay, he wears pink’? Bring your mother around, n-gga. See if she gives a f-ck, n-gga. See if your mom gives a whole f-ck, n-gga. I’ll tell her how gay I am. I’ll f-ck her in the pink mink,” Cam’ron said on a July 2023 episode of It Is What It Is.

Read More: Is Ryan Garcia On Cocaine? Cam’ron Certainly Thinks So

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Jalen Green Says He’s Motivated By His Baby And Family As Fans Continue To Harass Draya Michele

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In a recent post-game interview, Jalen Green revealed that he is currently motivated by his “family” and his “baby”. Green hasn’t said much publicly since his partner, reality star Draya Michele, revealed she was pregnant with the young rising star’s child. However, other people have had plenty to say about the couple. Actor London Brown called Michele “passed around goods” while criticizing Green for dating the 39-year-old. Meanwhile, former NBAer Nick Young took the opportunity to share a story about how Michele had been with Gilbert Arenas.

Furthermore, many people have called Michele a “predator” given the 17-year age gap between her and Green. Michele recently opened up about the toll the hate was having on her. Michele said that some days she feels like she is “struggling to breathe” amid the wave of hate she has received over her relationship with Jalen Green. Previously, Michele had shared words from a self-proclaimed medicine woman in response to the hate. “Get comfortable being misunderstood. Only a fraction of people will be able to truly grasp your essence. You are not on anyone else’s timeline of comprehension. Also, it’s none of your business how others choose to perceive you. Most High sees you clearly – let that be enough,” read the tweet.

Read More: Fans Call Out Neighborhood Talk For Comparing Joie Chavis & Trevon Diggs To Draya Michele & Jalen Green

Patrick Beverley Rips Gilbert Arenas For His Draya Michele Comments

However, not everyone has it out for Michele. Patrick Beverley has defended Michele and Green after Nick Young shared a salacious story about the reality star on Gilbert Arenas’ podcast. “Sidenote Yal foul. Not cool, not at all. @GilsArenaShow Yal old asl talking about another man Lady. Not cool gang. @PatBevPod,” Beverley wrote on X, formerly Twitter. However many people in Beverley’s comments tried to defend Young and Arenas, saying the two men were just trying to “warn” Green about Michele.

Meanwhile, Joe Budden recently called Michele a “predator” amid the rumors that the 39-year-old year might be expecting a child with the 21-year-old Green. “We’ve seen so many NBA stars lose their career, and everything, because of women like this,” Budden said. He also went after co-host MeLyssa Ford, who didn’t appear to have an issue with the relationship. “We don’t have twenty minutes to explain something to you that is right there in front of you,” Budden said dismissively. Despite this, several fans pointed out that Budden was also a predator after impregnating at a woman in her mid-20s when he was 39.

Read More: Draya Michele Net Worth 2023: What Is The Basketball Wives LA Star Worth?

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