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Oscar Pistorius Released From Prison

January 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Oscar Pistorius has been confirmed to have left the prison in South Africa where he has spent the last nine years. Pistorius left the prison early on January 5 and was secretly transported to his uncle’s mansion as authorities looked to avoid the throngs of media outside the prison. The national Department of Corrections later released a two-sentence statement that confirmed Pistorius had been released and was now classified as a “parolee”.

However, he will not be able to leave the neighborhood of Pretoria he is set to live in, must attend anger management counseling, and perform community service. “Parole does not mean the end of the sentence. It is still part of the sentence. It only means the inmate will complete the sentence outside a correctional facility,” the spokesperson told ESPN in November 2023. Pistorius became eligible for parole as he had served at least half his given sentence.

Family Of Oscar Pistorius Victim Speak On Athlete’s Parole

BREAKING: Oscar Pistorius has been released from prison on parole this morning according to South Africa’s correctional services department. pic.twitter.com/ffYXK40Bru

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 5, 2024

The family of Reeve Steenkamp, Pistorius’ girlfriend whom he murdered on Valentine’s Day 2013, did not oppose his parole when it was announced last year. Steenkamp’s mother said she “did not have the energy to face him” at a parole hearing. However, “I do not believe Oscar’s version that he thought the person in the toilet was a burglar. In fact, I do not know anybody who does. My dearest child screamed for her life. I believe he knew it was Reeva,” the statement read by Steenkamp family friend Rob Matthews continued. Matthews’ daughter was murdered in 2004 and he has since become a close friend of the Steenkamp family.

As mentioned, Pistorius is expected to spend the foreseeable future at his uncle’s mansion in a wealthy neighborhood of Pretoria. Little is known about Pistorius’ time in jail. Despite this, his father claims that he held regular Bible study for his fellow prisoners. However, Pistorius also required medical treatment during his incarceration. It is believed he was assaulted by a fellow prisoner regarding an argument about a prison telephone.

[via]

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Orlando Magic Announce Shaq Jersey Retirement

January 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The Orlando Magic have announced that Shaq’s jersey will be the first to be retired by the team. “On behalf of the DeVos family and myself and all of us here at the Orlando Magic, we want to congratulate you as we make you the first jersey number retired in the history of the Orlando Magic. You had a great career here at the beginning of your career and we had some great times!” Magic CEO Alex Martins told Shaq on Inside the NBA. Furthermore, the jersey retirement is set for February 13.

Shaq was the Magic’s first-overall pick in the 1992 Draft and helped turn the team into a serious contender in the mid-90s. Addtionally, that included a Finals run in 1995, Shaq’s third season in the league. However, Shaq’s time in Orlando would only last until 1996 when he joined the Lakers in free agency. Shaq would later say that he felt like a “big fish in a dried-up pond” in Orlando. After leaving the Magic, Shaq would go on to win four NBA titles – three with the Lakers and one with the Heat.

Shaq Speaks On Jersey Retirements

Shaq learns that he’ll be the first player in Orlando Magic history to have a jersey number retired. pic.twitter.com/ExvI1bqe19

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 5, 2024

Jersey retirements have been something that Shaq has actually spoken on in the last few weeks. The Hall of Famer recently said that he doesn’t necessarily agree with league-wide retirements of certain player jerseys. “I hate the fact that they hang up other people’s jerseys. I hope I’m not disrespecting anybody by this term. This thing is ours. This is what we built. Michael Jordan ain’t never play for the Heat. Bill Russell ain’t never play for the Heat. You did your own thing with your little Celtics family and Chicago family. But this Miami thing? I was one of the original championship families… this is our thing. So, I don’t like that personally,” Shaq said.

Furthermore, Shaq, whose jersey is retired by the Heat, was opining on the retirements following the news that the team would be retiring Udonis Haslem’s jersey in January. Haslem’s jersey will be just the sixth jersey retired by the Heat. The other jerseys of Heat players that have been retired are Alonzo Mourning, Tim Hardaway, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and Shaquille O’Neal.

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Giannis Antetokounmpo Calls Victor Wembanyama “Special” After First Matchup

January 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Giannis Antetokounmpo had high praise for Victor Wembanyama following his first game against the rookie French phenom. “He’s special. He’s going to be an extremely good player. He plays the right way. He plays to win. I’ve never seen anything like him,” Giannis said after the Bucks’ 125-121 win. After Wembanyama blocked Giannis at the rim in the final minute of the game, the French star was able to set up a potential game-tying three. However, Tre Jones’ shot from the corner fell short. Wembanyama finished the game with 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 blocks.

As for Wembanyama himself, the praise from Giannis held extra weight as the Greek star was one of the players he watched the most growing up. “It’s always extra motivation, and I know I’m a competitor. So I want to go at everyone and be the bad guy on the court. So it was a great matchup. I’m trying to gain knowledge from as many great players as there are. Giannis is one of the players I’ve watched the most. The way he uses his body, he makes 100% of what he can do with his body. That’s something I look up to and I still look up to. It’s a player I know pretty well,” Wembanyama said.

Victor Wembanyama Remains Hopeful Despite 5-29 Record

The Greek Freak vs. The French Freak

The first matchup between Giannis Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama was unbelievable…with this sequence being one of the many moments that’ll stick with me. Unreal. pic.twitter.com/8dEfguRXdK

— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) January 5, 2024

The loss dropped the Spurs to a 5-29 record, second-worst in the league behind the 3-31 Pistons. However, the close loss to Milwaukee gives Wembanyama hope for the future. “It’s promising. That’s the first thing [Spurs coach Gregg Popovich] told us coming back in the locker room. We had some moments in the game where everything seemed to work. And I could feel the crowd believing in us and getting going. Some of this was satisfying tonight,” Wembanyama said.

The rookie has been going from strength to strength. Just before New Year’s, he had the first 30/5/5/5 game by a teenager in the NBA in a monster night against Portland. The French superstar rookie finished the night with 30 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 7 blocks as San Antonio snapped a five-game skid. Furthermore, Wembanyama’s star night game against fellow high-flying prospect, Scoot Henderson. “It’s always important to me to play against great players, especially players my age,” Wembanyama said after the game. “His length alone is just weird, it’s like he hovers over you. You can’t really feel him or bump him off because of his length,” Henderson said of playing against Wembanyama.

[via]

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Ice Spice’s Brother Claims Opponents Taunt Him With Rapper’s Lyrics During Football Games

January 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Joey Gaston, the younger brother of Ice Spice, has revealed to Complex that opposing players and fans often taunt him with his sister’s lyrics during football games. “Defensive ends, they sack me, and they like, ‘You thought I was feeling you?’ I was playing in the semifinals of the playoffs. Second half we’re getting ready to go on the field. I hear the student section like, ‘all right, he’s coming, he’s coming.’ They start clapping and saying ‘we love Ice Spice’ clap clap ‘we love Ice Spice. Next drive, I threw a touchdown and I went to the sidelines and I started clapping,” Gaston told the outlet.

Gaston plays for Iona Prep High School in New Rochelle, NY. A dual-threat QB, Gaston is considered one of the top players in the state but does not appear on ESPN‘s Top 300 recruiting list for his class (2025). HotNewHipHop was unable to find any evidence that Gaston has received any scholarship offers at this time. However, he has reportedly garnered interest from USC.

Is Ice Spice Poised To Take Over The Rap Game In 2024?

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A post shared by Complex Sports (@complexsports)

Meanwhile, Ice Spice appears to be ramping up towards a huge 2024. On Christmas Eve 2023, the rapper’s flag (a modified American flag in pink with an image of Spice) was spotted flying over the headquarters of Capitol Records. While the meaning of the flag was unclear, fans hoped it meant that Spice would be dropping her full-length debut in 2024. This comes after hints from her long-time producer, RIOTUSA, that the album might be coming this year.

Of course, a massive 2024 would be the logistical next step for Spice, who enjoyed a major breakout year in 2023. This included getting her own drink at Dunkin Donuts. The first ad for the Ice Spice Munchkins Drink dropped during the VMAs on September 12. In something of a meta advertisement, Spice and certified Boston Boy Ben Affleck try to come up with names for her signature drink. It’s a fun little spot with Affleck turning his Southie accent up to 11. Furthermore, an unimpressed Spice serves as his straight woman.

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Ice Spice’s Brother Joey Gaston Said Opponents Have Used His Sister’s Lyrics To Troll Him On The Field

January 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Ice Spice isn’t the only talent in her family. Her brother, Joey Gaston, is one of the most-watched high school football players in the state of New York. Gaston is a running back at Iona Prep, and is set to graduate in 2025. Over the course of the past two years, both Ice and Gaston have risen to fame in tandem.

In an interview with Complex Sports, Gaston revealed that since his connection with Ice was uncovered by fans, opponents from rivaling schools will often use his sister’s lyrics to troll him while he’s playing.

“Defensive ends, they sack me, and they like, ‘You thought I was feeling you?’,” said Gaston, in reference to Ice’s hit single, “Munch.” Gaston seems to be a good sport about it though. Elsewhere in the interview, he shared that fans often join in on the fun.

“I was playing in the semifinals of the playoffs, second half we’re getting ready to go on the field,” Gaston says. “I hear the student section like, ‘all right, he’s coming, he’s coming.’ They start clapping and saying ‘we love Ice Spice’ *clap clap* ‘we love Ice Spice. Next drive, I threw a touchdown and I went to the sidelines and I started clapping.”

You can watch a clip from the interview above.

Cynthia Cooper-Dyke Net Worth 2024: What Is The WNBA Legend Worth?

January 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Cynthia Cooper-Dyke has been a foundational figure in the growth of women’s basketball. Her remarkable playing career and subsequent transition to coaching have made her one of the sport’s most respected and influential figures. As of 2024, Cooper-Dyke’s combined achievements as a player, coach, and mentor have led to a net worth of $2 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This figure is a testament to her impact and legacy in basketball and the WNBA.

Career Highlights: A Legacy Of Championships & Accolades

Cooper-Dyke’s basketball career is highlighted by her extraordinary achievements in the WNBA with the Houston Comets. It was there that she led the team to four consecutive championships. Her scoring ability, leadership, and competitiveness set her apart as one of the league’s premier players. Cooper-Dyke’s accolades, including multiple MVP awards and All-Star appearances, are a testament to her skill and impact on the court. Her international career, including her successes in overseas leagues and with Team USA, further solidified her status as a global basketball icon.

Beyond The Court: Coaching & Mentorship

Following her illustrious playing career, Cooper-Dyke transitioned into coaching, where she continued to influence the game. Her tenure as a coach at various collegiate programs showcased her ability to mentor and develop young talent. This extends her legacy beyond her own playing days. Cooper-Dyke’s role in coaching underscores her deep understanding of the game and her commitment to fostering the next generation of women’s basketball stars.

Off the court, Cynthia Cooper-Dyke’s life is marked by her resilience, inspirational journey, and advocacy for women’s sports. Her experiences overcoming personal and professional challenges have shaped her into a role model and advocate for female athletes. Cooper-Dyke’s dedication to her family and her community work further highlights her multifaceted role as an athlete, coach, and mentor.

Legacy & Impact: Pioneering Women’s Basketball

Reflecting on Cynthia Cooper-Dyke, her career exemplifies her status as a pioneer in women’s basketball. Her contributions as a player and coach have not only garnered personal success but have also played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of women’s basketball. Cooper-Dyke’s influence extends beyond her achievements as she continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations in the sport.

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Lisa Leslie Net Worth 2024: What Is The WNBA Legend Worth?

January 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Lisa Leslie, renowned for her groundbreaking achievements in women’s basketball, has been pivotal in shaping the sport. Her stellar career in the WNBA and her significant contributions off the court have established her as one of the greatest players in the history of women’s basketball. As of 2024, Leslie’s successful career, which includes playing, coaching, and broadcasting, has culminated in a net worth of $5 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This figure reflects her financial success and her lasting impact on the sport.

Career Highlights: Setting Standards In The WNBA

Leslie’s journey in professional basketball set new standards for what female athletes could achieve. In the WNBA, playing for the Los Angeles Sparks, she became the first player to dunk in a WNBA game. This sets a precedent and inspires future generations. Her numerous accolades, including MVP awards and championships, underscore her dominance on the court. Leslie’s international career with Team USA added to her list of accomplishments, solidifying her status as a global basketball icon.

Beyond The Court: Advocacy & Broadcasting

Apart from her on-court excellence, Leslie has made significant strides in advocating for women’s sports and contributing to basketball through coaching and broadcasting. Her transition to sports analysis and commentary has allowed her to share her deep knowledge of the game. She further influenced the growth and development of basketball. Leslie’s role as a coach has also been instrumental in mentoring young players, showcasing her dedication to nurturing new talent.

Lisa Leslie’s personal life, marked by her mother, wife, and entrepreneur roles, adds depth to her public image. Her experiences balancing a high-profile sports career with family life offer insights into the multifaceted nature of being an elite athlete. Leslie’s advocacy for women’s rights and her involvement in various charitable endeavors reflect her commitment to using her platform for positive social impact.

Legacy & Influence: A Trailblazer In Women’s Basketball

Reflecting on Lisa Leslie’s $5 million net worth in 2024, her career symbolizes her role as a trailblazer in women’s basketball. Her achievements have garnered personal accolades and played a crucial role in elevating the profile of women’s basketball. Leslie’s legacy is one of excellence, leadership, and a pioneering spirit that has opened doors for countless women in sports.

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LeBron James & Giannis Antetokounmpo Lead Early All-Star Voting

January 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo have both surpassed two million votes in the first round of public all-star voting. Meanwhile – Kevin Durant, Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Steph Curry, Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton all broke the one million vote mark. Next month’s game, which will be held in Indianapolis, will also return to the old East v West matchup format. The return to the traditional method of team selection replaces the recently used Captain’s Draft method. Giannis and LeBron were both captains last year, with Giannis’ team winning a high-scoring game in Salt Lake City.

If selected, LeBron will become the NBA’s all-time All-Star leader with 20 selections. He is currently tied for 19 selections with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. James Harden, who started the season benched by the Sixers, is currently in fourth place in Western Conference backcourt voting. Voting runs through January 20, with the next voting update released on January 11. Who do you want to make the All-Star Game? Let us know in the comments.

LeBron James Stars In New Louis Vuitton Campaign

Lakers’ LeBron James and Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo lead the NBA’s first 2023-24 All-Star fan voting return: pic.twitter.com/PuLC37lMFN

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 4, 2024

Meanwhile off the court, LeBron James is the face of a new Louis Vuitton campaign. The Lakers star appeared in a range of sharp Louis Vuitton outfits in a cityscape setting. “LeBron James lends himself to Pharrell Williams’ debut collection, embodying the audacious energy and trailblazing vision of the Maison’s next menswear chapter,” the fashion house said. Of course, these fits aren’t for everyone, especially considering that the total outfit cost is nearly $14,000.

However, modeling for Pharrell isn’t the only venture that LeBron has been up to. He has also suggested that he wants to start livestreaming his Madden games when he plays against other people. “Thinking of live streaming my @EAMaddenNFL games when I play. . Who should I stream with? Meaning which platform brand ,” LeBron tweeted. Of course, the Lakers star was bombarded with suggestions ranging from Twitch to Rumble to Kick to OnlyFans. Overall, people are very excited to see it happen.

[via]

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Rick Ross Reported Live While Neighbor Tyreek Hill’s House Was On Fire, But He Really Just Wanted To Talk About His Wingstop Delivery

January 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Rick Ross Legendz of the Streetz Tour Reloaded 2023 — Getty Image

The only real reason somebody might not be aware that Rick Ross owns some Wingstop franchises is because they’ve never paid attention to Rick Ross ever. He pushes the restaurant chain pretty much any opportunity he gets, including when his neighbor’s home is on fire.

Ross’ neighbor happens to be Miami Dolphins receiver Tyreek Hill, and yesterday, Hill’s Miami home caught fire. Firefighters responded, and fortunately, nobody was hurt. Also responding was Ross, who shared a video weighing in on the situation from outside the mansion.

i missed rick ross reporting live from tyreek hill’s burning house and getting a wingstop plug in https://t.co/LyF5e0HyWR

— Brian Floyd (@BrianMFloyd) January 4, 2024

He speculated an electrical fire was the cause and commented on the helicopters flying overhead the scene. In another video showing off emergency vehicles outside Hill’s home, parts of Ross’s commentary sounded like a straight-up Wingstop commercial.

“I have some Wingstop wings on the way being delivered, but as y’all can see, they said it was a minor fire,” he said. He noted elsewhere, “As long as everybody’s safe, that’s more important my lemon-pepper wings, my ranch dressing, my roasted corn, trust me.” All that was missing from Ross’ posts were professional product shots showing off a Wingstop meal and the company logo.

Ross, by the way, was wrong about the cause of the fire, as a fire official later confirmed the fire was started by a child playing with a lighter inside the home. Hill was at practice when the fire broke out and he returned home once he was told about the situation.

Hill’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, also noted, “He and his family are safe. No one was injured, No. 1, no pets, so for that, we’re very grateful. We’re very grateful to the firefighters that put the fire out. Thankfully, the fire was contained to a limited area in the home. Obviously, there’ll be some smoke and water damage. It’s very difficult for anybody obviously to have your home catch on fire, but Tyreek was handling it, he and his family, with as much poise as you could hope.”

Courtney Vandersloot Net Worth 2024: What Is The WNBA Star Worth?

January 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Courtney Vandersloot, celebrated for her exceptional playmaking and leadership in the WNBA, is a pivotal figure in women’s basketball. Her career is defined by record-setting assists and influential performances. She has established herself as one of the premier guards in the league. As of 2024, Vandersloot’s achievements in basketball, coupled with her off-court endeavors, have led to a net worth estimated between $1 to $5 million, according to PopularBio. This range reflects her financial success and stature as a key player and leader in the sport.

Career Highlights: Mastery In Playmaking

Her incredible vision and playmaking ability marks Vandersloot’s journey in professional basketball. Since her collegiate days at Gonzaga University, where she set numerous records. Vendersloot has continued to excel in the WNBA with the Chicago Sky. Her ability to control the game’s tempo and set up her teammates has further made her one of the most respected point guards in the league. Vandersloot’s numerous accolades include her All-Star appearances and leading the league in assists multiple times. These attest to her skill and impact on the court.

Beyond The Court: Expanding Her Influence

In addition to her on-court achievements, Vandersloot’s influence extends to her roles as a mentor and advocate for the sport. Her involvement in basketball clinics and youth programs demonstrates her commitment to nurturing the next generation of players. Vandersloot’s personal life, including her marriage to fellow WNBA player Allie Quigley, adds a unique dimension to her story. It showcases a partnership grounded in shared passion and professional excellence.

Courtney Vandersloot’s personal journey is a compelling blend of professional rigor and personal fulfillment. Her experiences offer insights into the life of an elite athlete. Vandersloot’s dedication to her sport and family life reflects her multifaceted personality. Moreover, it shows her ability to excel in various aspects of life.

Impact & Legacy: A Driving Force In Women’s Basketball

Considering Courtney Vandersloot’s estimated net worth in 2024, her career is emblematic of a player significantly influencing women’s basketball. Her legacy, still being shaped, is likely to be remembered for her extraordinary playmaking skills, her leadership on and off the court, and her role in advancing the profile of women’s basketball.

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