Charles Barkley went on a scathing rant about the New Orleans Pelicans following the team’s third-straight NBA Playoff loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Appearing on the Inside the NBA broadcast, the Hall of Famer joked that they don’t deserve a trip to Cancun in the offseason and instead, they should head to Galveston, Texas. The viral jokes left Shaquille O’Neal unable to control his laughter.
“That dirty a** water,” Barkley said of the city. “We’re not even going to send them to Cancun. We’re gonna send them to Galveston, where that dirty a** water be washed up on the shore. You people think they’re at the beach. We’re not gonna send you to Cancun. Y’all drive your a** down to Galveston. They didn’t even try man. We’re not giving them no plane ticket to the beach. We send their a** to Galveston, Texas, right where that dirty washed up on the beach. They can’t even get in the water.”
Brandon Ingram Reacts To A Call During Pelicans’ 3rd Loss
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – APRIL 27: Brandon Ingram #14 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts to a no-call during the third quarter in Game Three of the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Smoothie King Center on April 27, 2024, in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
The Pelicans have been struggling to overcome the Thunder after losing their star player, Zion Williamson, to injury during their play-in-game loss against the Los Angeles Lakers. On Saturday, they fell 106-85 to OKC, dropping them to 0-3 in the series. Game 4 will be played on Monday night. If the Pelicans can’t grind out a win, their playoff run will end that night.
Charles Barkley Can’t Take Anymore From The Pelicans
In a stunning turn of events, the Sacramento Kings avenged last year’s playoff defeat by eliminating the Golden State Warriors with a commanding 118-94 victory in the SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament. Led by Keegan Murray’s explosive performance, the Kings showcased their dominance on both ends of the court, flipping the script from their previous postseason encounter.
Murray, who ignited the Kings’ offense with a game-high 32 points and eight three-pointers, set the tone early in the game. Supported by strong contributions from De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, who combined for 40 points, the Kings’ starting lineup proved too much for the Warriors to handle.
Despite a valiant effort from Warriors’ star Stephen Curry, who scored 22 points, the Kings’ suffocating defense limited his impact and disrupted the Warriors’ offensive rhythm throughout the game. Notably, Klay Thompson struggled, going 0 for 10 in 32 minutes of play.
In a display of depth and resilience, the Kings’ bench players, including Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Brandon Podziemski, stepped up with a collective 37 points, amplifying the team’s offensive output.
The Warriors now enter free agency with a roster that needs tweaking and Thompson, who is unrestricted.
The victory marks a significant milestone for the Kings, who broke their winless streak in winner-take-all games and now look ahead to their next challenge against the New Orleans Pelicans. With an opportunity to secure their first win of the season against the Pelicans, the Kings are determined to carry their momentum forward and make a statement in their upcoming matchup.
As the Kings prepare to face the Pelicans on Friday, fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling showdown between the two teams, with the Kings aiming to turn the tide and emerge victorious against their formidable opponents.
In a thrilling showdown against the New Orleans Pelicans, the Los Angeles Lakers secured the 7th seed in the playoffs with a hard-fought victory. The Lakers emerged victorious in a rematch against the Pelicans, clinching a playoff berth and extinguishing New Orleans’ postseason hopes.
Led by stellar performances from LeBron James, D’Angelo Russell, and Anthony Davis, the Lakers displayed resilience and determination throughout the game. Despite facing a formidable opponent, they rallied together to secure a 110-106 win, sealing their place in the playoffs. James finished with 23 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. Davis added 20 points and 15 rebounds, and Russell had 21 points.
The game saw intense back-and-forth action, with the Lakers showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive prowess. A crucial 32-8 run in the first half propelled the Lakers into the lead, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
Although the Pelicans fought valiantly, the Lakers maintained their composure and never relinquished their lead. Key plays from LeBron, Davis, and Russell ensured the Lakers’ victory, thwarting the Pelicans’ attempts to seize control of the game. Zion Williamson had a dominant 40 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists to lead a comeback but left the game due to injury in the fourth quarter.
“He’s a generation player, generational talent,” James said of Williamson. “Tonight was just a small microcosm of how great he can be.”
The win sets up a highly anticipated first-round matchup between the Lakers and the defending champion Denver Nuggets. With the Lakers aiming to end their eight-game losing streak against the Nuggets, the upcoming series promises to be a showdown of epic proportions.
As the Lakers prepare to face off against the Nuggets, fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry between the two teams. With both sides vying for supremacy, the stage is set for an exhilarating battle in the NBA playoffs.
You can see the final four minutes of the Play-In game below.
Devin Booker poured in 52 points in a dominant performance, with 37 coming in the first half, guiding the Phoenix Suns to a 124-111 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. Booker’s career-high eight 3-pointers and nine assists fueled the Suns’ commanding lead, supported by Kevin Durant’s 20 points and Jusuf Nurkic’s impressive 19-point, 19-rebound performance.
This marks Booker’s third consecutive game, scoring 50+ points against the Pelicans, joining Wilt Chamberlain as the only player to achieve such a feat against the same opponent. The Pelicans, led by Zion Williamson’s 30 points, struggled to contain Booker’s offensive onslaught.
Despite the loss, the Pelicans maintain their sixth position in the Western Conference, while the Suns climb to seventh, just one game behind New Orleans. Additionally, the Phoenix Suns secured the head-to-head tiebreaker with Monday’s win, positioning themselves favorably in the playoff race.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves secured a playoff berth with the Pelicans’ defeat, further intensifying the competition in the Western Conference playoff and play-in races.
Jimmy Butler, Naji Marshall, and Nikola Jovic will be suspended for a game while Jose Alvarado and Thomas Bryant will miss three games for their respective roles in the brawl that broke out at Heat-Pelicans on Friday night. Alvarado and Bryant’s punishments were deemed more severe due to the pair reigniting tensions between the teams after the original scuffle had died down.
However, fans will note that Draymond Green still received a larger suspension for placing Rudy Gobert in a chokehold earlier in the season. Green missed five games for that incident. Fans will likely soon voice their distaste for the league’s double standard as news of the suspensions begins to spread.
Butler was one of four players ejected after a wild brawl broke out between Heat and Pelicans players on Friday night. A hard foul on Zion Williamson caused tensions to boil over, with Butler and Marshall seen grabbing each other by the neck. Bryant and Alvarado were also ejected alongside Butler and Marshall. However, Butler argued that he didn’t think his actions warranted a suspension. Furthermore, he accused Williamson of flopping, causing the whole debacle to begin with. Meanwhile, Williamson appeared to place the blame on Butler. “I wasn’t tripping about K-Love because he actually protected me on my fall. All of a sudden I see Butler kind of lunging toward Naji. So I’m trying to get there like, ‘Yo, relax, like what’s going on?’” Williamson said.
Additionally, tensions surrounding the game had been high even before the teams took the court. Earlier in the day, The Pelicans took shots at Stephen A. Smith after the ESPN personality went on yet another rant about team star Zion Williamson. The team’s official X account posted a graphic showing Smith’s dismal college stats of 1.5 points and 1 assist a game. Appearing on Get Up! earlier in the day, Smith had once again gone after Williamson’s weight. “Zion Williamson, it’s not about his game. It’s about how many burgers he’s eating,” Smith said in part.
Jimmy Butler was one of four players ejected after a wild brawl broke out between Heat and Pelicans players last night. A hard foul on Zion Williamson caused tensions to boil over, with Butler and Naji Marshall seen grabbing each other by the neck. Thomas Bryant and Jose Alvarado were also ejected alongside Butler and Marshall. However, for many fans, this was a very familiar sight and thus, they wanted very similar consequences. Earlier this season, Draymond Green received a five-game suspension after putting Rudy Gobert in a chokehold. Fans argued that if the league had any consistency, similar punishments would be handed down as a result of the brawl in New Orleans.
However, Butler argued that he didn’t think his actions warranted a suspension. Furthermore, he accused Williamson of flopping, causing the whole debacle to begin with. Meanwhile, Williamson appeared to place the blame on Butler. “I wasn’t tripping about K-Love because he actually protected me on my fall. All of a sudden I see Butler kind of lunging toward Naji, so I’m trying to get there like, ‘Yo, relax, like what’s going on?’” Williamson said.
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However, tensions surrounding the game had been high even before the teams took the court. Earlier in the day, The Pelicans took shots at Stephen A. Smith after the ESPN personality went on yet another rant about team star Zion Williamson. The team’s official X account posted a graphic showing Smith’s dismal college stats of 1.5 points and 1 assist a game.
Appearing on Get Up! earlier in the day, Smith had once again gone after Williamson’s weight. “Zion Williamson, it’s not about his game. It’s about how many burgers he’s eating. Whether or not he is going to be in shape or keep eating McDonald’s and have chefs clamoring for him to come to their restaurants. That’s what he has to prove, that the chefs don’t love him any longer. That he’s committed to playing basketball and being in shape,” Smith said as the Pelicans prepare to face the Heat later today. Williamson, who is listed as a game-time decision due to a foot injury, is averaging 22.5/5.4/4.9 this season. He is shooting a league 12th-best 58.5% from the field.
The New Orleans Pelicans have taken shots at Stephen A. Smith after the ESPN personality went on yet another rant about team star Zion Williamson. The team’s official X account posted a graphic showing Smith’s dismal college stats of 1.5 points and 1 assist a game.
Appearing on Get Up! earlier today, Smith had once again gone after Williamson’s weight. “Zion Williamson, it’s not about his game. It’s about how many burgers he’s eating. Whether or not he is going to be in shape or keep eating McDonald’s and have chefs clamoring for him to come to their restaurants. That’s what he has to prove, that the chefs don’t love him any longer. That he’s committed to playing basketball and being in shape,” Smith said as the Pelicans prepare to face the Heat later today. Williamson, who is listed as a game-time decision due to a foot injury, is averaging 22.5/5.4/4.9 this season. He is shooting a league 12th-best 58.5% from the field.
“Zion Williamson, it’s not about his game. It’s about how many burgers he’s eating. Whether he is going to be in shape or keep eating McDonald’s… That’s what he has to prove, that the chefs don’t love him any longer”
Meanwhile, it’s not just the Pelicans who have it out for Smith right now. Stephen A. Smith and JJ Redick once butted again butted heads on First Take as Redick lamented that NBA fans “don’t want to be educated.” “I can do a video on my podcast where I break down the last nine games the Pelicans have used Zion Williamson as the primary ballhandler… 54,000 views on YouTube. But I wanna call out a coach yesterday. Oh, that gets tens of millions of engagements. That’s the ecosystem we live in. So do fans actually want to be educated or not?” Redick ranted.
The argument stemmed from a debate about Kevin Durant voicing his frustrations that he didn’t get credit as a team leader. While Redick believed the lack of credit was warranted, Smith vehemently disagreed, The spearhead of First Take got more and more heated, especially after Redick went after Mad Dog for weighing in. “That is a Hall of Famer, JJ. That is a Hall of Famer for media who has been covering sports for 40+ years that you are sitting across from,” Smith fired back at Redick.
Zion Williamson has shown off a prominent new tattoo on his chest of a large cross with a snarling lion peeking through it. However, the design was thoroughly clowned online as it is slightly off-center. The meaning behind the tattoo is unclear but Williamson appeared pretty happy with the design. What do you think of the tattoo? Let us know in the comments.
However, several other commenters remarked that Williamson should be focusing on his fitness and not new ink. This comes after Williamson’s alleged ex, porn star Moriah Mills, told Williamson to “get on the treadmill” and cut things like soda from his diet. Furthermore, the final three years of Williamson’s contract recently became non-guaranteed due to the significant amount of time he has missed due to injury in recent seasons. While Williamson can earn back guaranteed protection, the Grizzlies are currently able to cut him after the 2024/25 season without financial penalty. The contract change came into effect as Williamson missed more than 22 games last season.
However, Williamson isn’t the only thing from the Grizzlies-Pelicans matchup people are talking about. Ja Morant has once again created controversy after he seemingly pulled a gun celebration after dropping a game-sealing alley-oop. Morant appeared to fire off two imaginary guns before running back down the court. Of course, this caused a lot of outrage given that Morant is just four games into a season cut short by a gun-related suspension. However, the Grizzlies appeared to be a fan of the move, sharing the clip to the team’s official X account.
The win over the Pelicans marked the Grizzlies’ fourth consecutive win, meaning the team is 4-0 since Morant returned to the team. Morant had a game-high 31 points along with 7 assists. However, Morant was also tied for a game-high 6 turnovers with Williamson. Williamson had 23 points and 11 rebounds in the one-point loss. It was just Williamson’s second double-double in the month of December.
The final three years of Zion Williamson’s contract are no longer guaranteed due to the amount of time that Williamson has missed due to injury. Because Williamson missed more than 22 games last season, he triggered a clause in his contract that converted his 2025-28 salary from guaranteed to non-guaranteed. The main consequence of this is that the Pelicans can now waive Williamson without financial penalties after the 2024/25 season. However, Williamson can earn back his guaranteed status by appearing in enough games and hitting specific weigh-in checkpoints.
This season, Williamson is averaging 22 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists as the Pelicans have started 17-12 and currently hold the sixth seed in the West. However, Williamson has been hit with criticism on multiple occasions for seeming out of shape and having several poor performances. Williamson’s alleged ex, pornstar Moriah Mills, told Williamson to “get on the treadmill” and cut things like soda from his diet.
The final three years of Zion Williamson’s contract are no longer guaranteed by the Pelicans after Williamson only played in 29 games last season, according to @TheAthletic.
The Pelicans can waive Williamson after the 2024-25 season with no financial ramifications. pic.twitter.com/mQUxLRVtUn
One of the games for which Williamson has faced the most criticism is the Pelicans’ In-Season Tournament semifinal against the Lakers. “I got to be better. I got to be more aggressive, finding my shot. And I got to do more things to get my team going. I think I was too laid-back tonight, and I just can’t do that. And defensively I got to be better. I have a problem where I literally just try to hunt the best shot possible every time, but my teammates, they expect more from me. I expect more from myself. But I got to just trust my game. I just got to be more aggressive. I think if I’m more aggressive that energy will definitely carry over,” Williamson said after going 13/2/2 in the 44-point loss.
Shaq was especially critical of Williamson’s performance in the game. “Does not run hard — it’s not a diss, this is gonna be a lesson from one great big man to another guy that can be a great. Does not run hard. I had the same problem my first, second year — I thought I was running hard. Charles talks about this all the time, my talent’s gonna get me 20. When I start going to 20, 30, and 40, it’s because I started doing certain things. He doesn’t create easy points for himself. I saw a couple times when he had a couple times at the basket, he don’t seal, right? He doesn’t demand the ball … and he doesn’t have that look. He just doesn’t have that look. And he doesn’t rebound. He does not rebound,” Shaq said.
CJ McCollum, a dominant force on the basketball court, has made significant strides in both his career and his financial status over the years. According to Celebrity Net Worth, as of 2023, this NBA sensation has an estimated net worth of around $14 Million US Dollars. This figure stands as a testament to his talent, dedication, and strategic moves off the court. But how did McCollum reach this point? And what factors contributed to his impressive net worth?
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DECEMBER 22: CJ McCollum #3 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts after scoring a three point basket during the fourth quarter of an NBA game against the San Antonio Spurs at Smoothie King Center on December 22, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Sean Gardner/Getty Images) (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
CJ McCollum’s journey began at Lehigh University, where he established himself as a basketball prodigy. Drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013, McCollum quickly showcased his prowess. With each passing season, his stats soared, ensuring his place as a core component of the Trail Blazers’ strategy.
His consistent performance on the court, coupled with his impeccable leadership qualities, earned him a hefty contract with the team. Contract renewals and endorsement deals followed suit, boosting his net worth considerably.
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – JANUARY 11: CJ McCollum #3 of the New Orleans Pelicans takes a shot against Jaylen Brown #7, Al Horford #42 and Grant Williams #12 of the Boston Celtics during the second half at TD Garden on January 11, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Like many top-tier athletes, McCollum doesn’t rely solely on his salary from the NBA. Endorsements play a vital role in amplifying the net worth of sports stars, and McCollum is no exception.
Throughout his career, he has collaborated with big names in the industry, offering his brand and image to promote their products. These partnerships, while enhancing his public image, also pad his bank account.
PORTLAND, OR – AUGUST 24: C.J. McCollum and Banana Republic celebrate partnership and launch new Rapid Movement Chino at Banana Republic on August 24, 2017 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Anthony Pidgeon/Getty Images for Banana Republic)
Beyond basketball and endorsements, McCollum showcases an acute sense of business. He has ventured into various fields, ensuring a diversified income stream. Investments in startups, equity deals, and more are all part of his financial strategy.
McCollum understands the importance of planning for a life post-NBA. With a keen interest in media, he has also embarked on journalistic ventures. This not only showcases his versatility but adds another layer to his income sources.
PORTLAND, OR – NOVEMBER 26: CJ McCollum teams with American Express to surprise Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland on November 26, 2018 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Anthony Pidgeon/Getty Images for American Express)
However, it’s essential to note that McCollum doesn’t hoard his wealth. He’s an avid supporter of community initiatives and has often been involved in charitable works. While he is generous, McCollum also understands the value of astute financial management.
He is known to work with top-notch financial advisors. Their guidance ensures that while he earns big, he also retains and grows his wealth efficiently.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 14: CJ McCollum attends the “Game Change Game” Premiere Event Presented By Prisoner Wine during Tribeca Film Festival at SVA Theater on June 14, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images for This is Dope)
Every career comes with its set of challenges, and sports are no different. Injuries, changing team dynamics, or shifts in the game’s popularity can impact an athlete’s earnings. However, McCollum’s diverse income sources ensure he is better positioned to navigate these uncertainties.
His current net worth, while impressive, has the potential to grow further. With continuous performance in the NBA, ongoing endorsement deals, and smart investments, the sky is the limit for this basketball star.
CJ McCollum’s estimated net worth of $14 million, as stated by Celebrity Net Worth, reflects a combination of hard work, talent, and financial intelligence. The NBA star has built an enviable portfolio, not just as a sportsman but as a business-savvy individual. As fans and enthusiasts watch his moves on the court, they can also take inspiration from his financial journey, showcasing that success is a mix of skill, planning, and seizing the right opportunities.
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