Harrison Butker says he has “no regrets” about his wildly controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas. On stage, he said the majority of women graduating were probably more excited about getting married and having kids than their careers, described pride month as a “deadly sin,” and much more. After facing an immense amount of backlash, the Kansas City Chiefs kicker discussed the drama at Regina Caeli Academy’s Courage Under Fire gala in Nashville, Tennessee on Friday night.
“It is now, over the past few days, my beliefs or what people think I believe have been the focus of countless discussions around the globe,” Butker said at the event. “At the outset, many people expressed a shocking level of hate. But as the days went on, even those who disagreed with my viewpoints shared their support for my freedom of religion.” He added: “It’s a decision I’ve consciously made and one I do not regret at all.”
Harrison Butker Prepares For Chiefs’ Game Against The Bengals
KANSAS CITY, MO – DECEMBER 31: Kansas City Chiefs place kicker Harrison Butker (7) before an NFL game between the Cincinnati. Bengals and Kansas City Chiefs on Dec 31, 2023, at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Several of Butker’s teammates have addressed the commencement speech. Patrick Mahomes said he respects his beliefs even if he often doesn’t agree with them. Travis Kelce had a similar take on his podcast with his brother, Jason. “When it comes down to his views and what he said at [the] commencement speech, those are his,” Travis said. “I can’t say I agree with the majority of it or just about any of it outside of just him loving his family and his kids. And I don’t think that I should judge him by his views, especially his religious views, of how to go about life, that’s just not who I am.”
Harrison Butker Speaks Out His Recent Comments
Chiefs K Harrison Butker has ZERO regrets about what he said and will not back down from his faith:
“Never be afraid to speak out for truth even when it goes against the loudest voices”
Masai Ujiri is a distinguished figure in basketball management. He has earned acclaim for his strategic acumen and leadership. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be $15 million, according to IAmGoldPanda. Ujiri’s journey from a young player in Nigeria to a top executive in the NBA underscores his dedication, vision, and impact on the sport.
Born on July 7, 1970, in Bournemouth, England, and raised in Zaria, Nigeria, Masai Ujiri developed a deep passion for basketball early in life. His commitment to the sport led him to the United States, where he played college basketball before transitioning into a career in basketball management. Ujiri’s unique path to the NBA front office highlights his relentless drive and innovative team-building approach.
Rise Through The Ranks
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 24: (L-R) General Manager of the Toronto Raptors Masai Ujiri, also SEED Project alumnus Erick Diouf, and Global Co-Executive. Director of the SEED Project Noah Levine appear onstage at the SEED Project 2014 Summer. Event at Up&Down on June 24, 2014, also in New York City. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for SEED Project)
Masai Ujiri’s professional career began with a scouting position for the Orlando Magic in 2002. His keen eye for talent and understanding of the game also quickly made him a valuable asset. Ujiri’s ability to identify and nurture young talent set the stage for his rise through the NBA ranks. His work with the Denver Nuggets as a scout and later as the Director of International Scouting further solidified his reputation.
In 2010, Ujiri became the Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager for the Toronto Raptors. His tenure with the Raptors also marked a significant turning point for the franchise. Ujiri’s strategic moves transformed the Raptors into a competitive team. His bold decision to trade for Kawhi Leonard in 2018 ultimately led to the Raptors’ first NBA Championship in 2019, cementing his legacy as a master strategist.
Championship Success & Influence
RAPTORS MASAI UJIRI–07/30/07–Toronto Raptors add Denver Nuggets international scout Masai Ujiri , to their basketball operations staff as the clubs director of global scouting. Ujiri poses for a photo outside of the Raptors dressing room at the Air Canada. Centre, also on Monday July 30, 2007. (Tara Walton/Toronto Star) (Photo by Tara Walton/Toronto Star via Getty Images)
Masai Ujiri’s success with the Toronto Raptors brought the team its first championship and elevated his status as one of the top executives in the NBA. His leadership and vision were instrumental in building a cohesive team capable of competing at the highest level. Ujiri’s approach to team management emphasizes player development, international scouting, and a deep understanding of the game.
Moreover, the Raptors’ championship win in 2019 culminated years of strategic planning and execution. Ujiri’s ability to assemble a winning team through shrewd trades, smart draft picks, and effective player development has been widely praised. Additionally, his influence extends beyond the Raptors. He is also known for his contributions to the NBA’s global outreach and efforts to grow the game internationally.
Personal Life & Philanthropy
MONTREAL, CANADA – OCTOBER 14: Vice-Chairman and team president of the Toronto Raptors, Masai Ujiri, walks onto the court prior to the preseason NBA game against the Boston. Celtics at Centre Bell on October 14, 2022, also in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Toronto Raptors defeated the Boston Celtics 137-134 in overtime. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)
Beyond his professional achievements, Masai Ujiri is deeply committed to philanthropy and community development. He also founded the Giants of Africa organization, which aims to use basketball as a tool to educate and enrich the lives of African youth. Ujiri has helped build basketball infrastructure through this initiative, provided scholarships, and created opportunities for young athletes across the continent.
Ujiri’s personal life reflects his commitment to making a positive impact. He is married to Ramatu Ujiri, and the couple has two children. Despite his demanding career, Ujiri remains dedicated to his family and his philanthropic efforts. His work with Giants of Africa and other charitable endeavors underscores his belief in the power of sports to inspire and uplift communities.
Stephen A. Smith doesn’t think LeBron James is not involved in the Los Angeles Lakers’ hunt for a new head coach. Even though his colleagues at ESPN have reported that he is staying out of the head coaching search, Stephen A. doesn’t buy it, especially when it comes to J.J. Redick’s prospects of winning the coveted position. Los Angeles is searching for a replacement for Darvin Ham, who was let go by the Lakers soon after they were defeated by the Denver Nuggets in the opening round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
Redick and James co-host a podcast that was launched in March, which may have contributed to Redick’s rapid rise to the top of the field. Smith and the former NBA player have both featured on ESPN shows, including First Take. After Doc Rivers resigned to take the helm as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, he also became a member of the network’s top NBA broadcast crew. Stephen A. Smith thinks LeBron is pulling the strings in the Laker’s search for a new head coach.
“We all know JJ Redick is the leading candidate for this job. … Stop the B.S.” @stephenasmith speaks on the Lakers head coaching vacancy pic.twitter.com/TcjY4PxFUX
“What are we supposed to believe when you know good and damn well that Darvin Ham is on the hot seat and you start a podcast with J.J. Redick,” Stephen A. Smith said. “It’s entitled ‘Mind the Game.’ And on this podcast, you’re talking strategy, you’re talking scheme, you’re talking all of these different things, right? And then lo and behold, J.J. Redick is the leading candidate for the Lakers job.” Smith continued, “We all know that J.J. Redick is the leading candidate for this job. Now, I’m not saying what LeBron’s intent was or whatever. J.J. Redick is doin’ an outstanding job for us as an analyst.”
Stephen A. Smith went on to call out LeBron, saying, “But we all know he wants to be a coach, and I wish him luck. I hope he gets it. I hope he gets it. But here’s the thing with LeBron: If it walks like a duck and it quacks like a duck, bro, it ain’t a damn mongoose. We know what the hell you doin’. We need to just stop the B.S., okay?” Overall, Stephen A. Smith is not buying that LeBron is staying out of the Lakers coaching search.
Lou Williams is a celebrated NBA player known for his scoring prowess and exceptional performance off the bench. he has carved out a remarkable career in professional basketball. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be $16 million, according to Fan Arch. Williams’s journey from high school prodigy to one of the most reliable sixth men in NBA history highlights his talent, perseverance, and impact on the game.
Born on October 27, 1986, in Memphis, Tennessee, Lou Williams showed early promise as a basketball player. His exceptional skills and scoring ability caught the attention of scouts and fans alike, leading him to forgo college and declare for the NBA draft straight out of high school. Williams’s career is a testament to his dedication and adaptability. It has also enabled him to remain a key contributor to every team he has played for.
Early Career & NBA Draft
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – JANUARY 23: Lou Williams #6 of the Atlanta Hawks brings the ball up court against the Charlotte. Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on January 23, 2022, also in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
Lou Williams’s path to the NBA began with a standout high school career at South Gwinnett High School in Georgia. He earned national recognition as one of the top prep players in the country. His impressive performances led to him being selected in the second round of the 2005 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. Although he was picked 45th overall, Williams quickly demonstrated that he had the skills and determination to succeed professionally.
During his early years with the 76ers, Williams developed his game. He honed his scoring ability and learning the intricacies of NBA play. His work ethic and perseverance paid off as he gradually earned more playing time and became a valuable asset to the team. By the end of his stint in Philadelphia, Williams had established himself as a reliable scorer and a dynamic presence off the bench.
Rise To Prominence & Sixth Man Success
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JANUARY 26: Lou Williams #6 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts after a three-point basket against the Sacramento. Kings during the first half at State Farm Arena on January 26, 2022, also in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Lou Williams’s career took a significant leap forward when he joined the Atlanta Hawks in 2012. It was with the Hawks that Williams truly began to flourish as one of the league’s premier sixth men. His ability to come off the bench and provide instant offense became his trademark. He was soon recognized for his contributions with the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2015. This was also during his time with the Toronto Raptors.
Williams continued to excel in this role with subsequent teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets. However, his most notable achievements came with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he won two more Sixth Man of the Year awards in 2018 and 2019. His tenure with the Clippers solidified his reputation as one of the best sixth men in NBA history, known for his clutch performances and scoring versatility.
Personal Life & Legacy
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 24: Lou Williams accepts the Kia NBA Sixth Man of the Year. Award onstage during the 2019 NBA Awards presented by Kia on TNT at Barker. Hangar on June 24, 2019, also in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Turner Sports)
Beyond his professional achievements, Lou Williams is known for his unique personality and contributions off the court. He has been open about his life experiences and challenges, using his platform to inspire others. Williams is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, including initiatives to support underprivileged youth and communities.
Williams’s personal life, including his relationships and lifestyle, has often been a topic of interest for fans and the media. Despite the attention, he has managed to maintain a focus on his career and personal growth, demonstrating resilience and a strong sense of self. Further, as Lou Williams continues to play and potentially transition into new roles within the basketball world, his legacy as a dynamic scorer and influential sixth man is firmly established. His net worth of $16 million reflects his success on the court, his impact on the sport, and his ability to connect with fans and communities.
Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs star tight end, finally broke his silence on his teammate Harrison Butker’s contentious commencement address at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, earlier this month. The speech, which sparked significant controversy, was the topic of discussion on the most recent episode of Kelce’s New Heights podcast, which aired on Friday. Kelce, speaking openly about the issue, echoed the sentiments of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes had also commented on the speech earlier this week.
Naturally, a lot of people were eager to hear Kelce’s take on the situation. Particularly since Butker brought up the tight end’s girlfriend, Taylor Swift, in the divisive conversation with grads. Travis disagrees with “just about any of” the ideas Butker presented throughout the discussion. Nonetheless, he stated that it wouldn’t change his opinion of his close buddy. Kelce said to his brother, Jason, on the podcast, “I’ve known him for seven-plus years probably, eight-plus years, and I cherish him as a teammate.”
Travis Kelce Defends Harrison Butker After Controversial Remarks
Travis Kelce addressed the Harrison Butker controversy, saying, “When it comes down to his views and what he said at Saint Benedict’s commencement speech, those are his. I can’t say I agree with the majority of it or just about any of it outside of just him loving his family and his kids.” He continued, “And I don’t think that I should judge him by his views, especially his religious views, of how to go about life, that’s just not who I am.” Kelce mentioned how Butker has always been wonderful to the friends and family he’s introduced him to.
Kelce went on to remark that his upbringing in Ohio has shaped the way he saw the world. “I grew up in a beautiful upbringing of different social classes, different religions, different races and ethnicities, in Cleveland Heights, and that’s why I love Cleveland Heights for what it was,” he said. Despite knowing how important equality is and growing up around a diverse community, Kelce still defends his teammate. Even though he seems to have completely opposite views. Similar opinions were voiced earlier this week by Patrick Mahomes, who likewise referred to Butker as “a good person.” In a conversation with reporters, Andy Reid also supported the member of the special team. Overall, the Chiefs are standing behind their kicker.
At the Make Good Famous Summit on Thursday, NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade was presented with the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award for his urgent and vital work. Together with his 16-year-old daughter Zaya, he founded Translatable, an online community that is not just a support system but a lifeline for transgender children and their families. Wade’s mission for this community is clear: “support growth, mental health, and well-being, and to spark conversations that lead to greater understanding and acceptance.”
Wade will use the $250,000 in unrestricted funds he received from winning the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award to fund Translatable. Carolina García Jayaram, CEO of Elevate Prize Foundation, mentioned that her organization contributed an additional donation to the initiative. Dwyane Wade told the Associated Press, “The question was presented to [Zaya] as, ‘If you have one thing that you want to see change in this community, what would it be?’” Wade continued, “And, for her, it goes right to parents. It goes right to the adults. It goes right to us. It’s not the kids. It’s us. And so she wanted to create a space that felt safe for parents and their kids. That’s what Translatable is, and it’s her baby.”
As a result of anti-trans laws in the state of Florida,Dwyane Wade, who lived and played for the Miami Heat for nearly his whole playing career, moved his family to California following Zaya’s 2020 announcement of her gender identity. “We’ve done so many great things here so it wasn’t easy to leave,” he said of the move. “But the community wasn’t here for Zaya, so the community wasn’t here for us.”
With an emphasis on assisting communities of color, Translatable will be launched in Florida with backing from The Trevor Project and the Human Rights Campaign. “We understand that in this state that not everyone thinks the way some others think,” Wade noted. “Like most things in life, once you get to know them, you have more ability to be understanding. And so if you don’t want to know them, then you stay ignorant in a sense.”
Even though Mike Tyson is thirty years Jake Paul’s senior, he will not back down from a challenge if it arises on July 20. He told TMZ Sports that he would not be taking the boxing icon lightly in their next match. Folks are divided on who will prevail in the Paul vs. Tyson fight. While Paul is far less experienced than Tyson, he is still at his peak age. Tyson is undoubtedly one of the greatest to have ever competed, but he is decades removed from his supremacy. Paul was asked whether there was any aspect of him that would be reluctant because his opponent is almost considered a senior citizen. He replied, “Absolutely not.” Paul explained that if Tyson gets an opportunity to knock him out, he’ll do the exact same.
He said Mike would do the same “in embarrassing fashion.” Paul went on to say, “So, I have to reciprocate that same energy.” He continued, “But Mike Tyson is a killer. He’s ruthless. He’s the most vicious champion ever. So, I have to channel that Mike Tyson energy to finish him. And the legend must fall.” Paul stated that he believes Netflix may draw hundreds of millions of people and that AT&T Stadium would be packed due to the fight’s hype.
Jake Paul Will Not Hesitate To Knock Out Mike Tyson
Despite the age gap between them, Jake Paul said that he will “absolutely” not hesitate to take a straight shot at Tyson since Iron Mike will do the same. One of the key draws for this fight is the intrigue of seeing Tyson in a boxing ring once more. Three weeks before to the bout, on June 30, he will turn 58 years old. On November 28, 2020, Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. squared off in an exhibition match that resulted in a split draw. Tyson’s fight against Paul will be his first professional encounter since he was defeated by Kevin McBride in June 2005.
In February 2003, Tyson defeated Clifford Etienne in the opening frame of a professional or exhibition bout, marking his last victory in that regard. Paul, a 27-year-old, is 9-1 in his ten professional fights. Most of his battles have been against opponents from other sports or against competitors who were long past their peak. Overall, Mike Tyson Vs. Jake Paul will hopefully be an entertaining bout. Let’s hope no one gets seriously damaged.
After being selected second overall in the 2017 draft, Lonzo Ball has struggled with injuries and has fallen short of expectations. The Chicago Bulls have suffered serious setbacks as a result of his absence. He suffered from a meniscus injury that occurred in January 2022. Ball recently was seen practicing his dunking, suggesting a possible return given his 70% health claim. For the previous two seasons, Lonzo Ball has been unable to play for the Chicago Bulls. He still wants to be involved in the team’s 2024–2025 ambitions, though.
Ball exercised his $21.4 million player option for the next year, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. Chicago is still unsure about Ball’s ability to play despite the decision because his left knee has had three operations in the last two years. Following a ruptured meniscus in January 2022, he underwent a cartilage transplant treatment in March 2023 for his knee. On a recent podcast appearance, the eldest Ball brother revealed that he has a meniscus donated to him.
Lonzo Ball revealed on his podcast appearance that he had gotten a meniscus donated. He went through his injury history, detailing the timeline and injury specifics. Ball says it started when he tore his meniscus when he was on the Lakers. he then said he tore it a couple more times to the point where all the cartridge was gone, and his knee was rubbing bone on bone. He said, “I had to get new meniscus from a donor, I had to get a bone allograft and I had to get some new cartilage put in as well.” Lonzo’s injury problems have been an NBA mystery. Now it seems like, hopefully, Lonzo and his medical team have finally found the problem and that it will allow him to return to the court.
Bulls president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas said after the team’s season ended, “We’re just going to wait and see his progression the next couple of months.” He continued, “He’s progressing well. Everything is looking good with no setbacks. So we’ll see where he’s at in a couple of months.” Bulls fans will be static if Lonzo Ball is finally able to return to the court. When he was healthy, the Bulls were one of the best teams in the East. Overall, with the emergence of Coby White and vets like Alex Caruso and DeMar DeRozan, the Bulls will look to make moves next season. Nevertheless, there are not many cases where a player gets a meniscus replacement and returns to their former self.
Kyle Lowry Is a distinguished NBA player known for his tenacity and leadership on the court. He has built an impressive career in professional basketball. According to CelebrityNetWorth, his net worth is estimated to be $100 million as of 2024. Lowry’s journey from a talented high school player to an NBA champion and six-time All-Star exemplifies his dedication, skill, and impact on the sport.
Born on March 25, 1986, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kyle Lowry’s early life was shaped by his passion for basketball. Excelling in high school and later at Villanova University, Lowry’s talents caught the attention of NBA scouts. It set the stage for a career that would see him rise to the top of the league. His perseverance and work ethic have made him a cornerstone player, especially noted for his time with the Toronto Raptors.
NBA Career & Achievements
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – MARCH 20: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers controls the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint. Center on March 20, 2024, also in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the 76ers 115-102. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
Kyle Lowry’s NBA career began in 2006 when the Memphis Grizzlies drafted him 24th overall. After stints with the Grizzlies and the Houston Rockets, Lowry found his stride with the Toronto Raptors. While there, he became a key player and leader. His tenure with the Raptors is marked by numerous highlights, including leading the team to its first NBA championship in 2019.
Lowry’s impact on the court is evident in his statistics and accolades. He has been selected to the NBA All-Star team six times, reflecting his consistent performance and importance to his teams. His ability to influence the game through scoring, defense, and playmaking has earned him respect from peers and fans alike.
Leadership & Legacy With The Raptors
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – APRIL 17: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the third quarter against the Miami Heat during the Eastern Conference Play-In. Tournament at the Wells Fargo Center on April 17, 2024, also in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
During his time with the Toronto Raptors, Kyle Lowry became known not just for his skills but also for his leadership qualities. He was instrumental in changing the team’s culture, emphasizing hard work and a winning mentality. His partnership with fellow All-Star DeMar DeRozan initially, and later with Kawhi Leonard, created a formidable team that consistently competed at the highest levels.
The pinnacle of Lowry’s career came in the 2018-2019 season when the Raptors won their first NBA Championship. Lowry’s performance throughout the playoffs, particularly in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors, was crucial to the team’s success. This victory cemented his legacy in Toronto and solidified his place in NBA history. The championship run further enhanced his marketability, leading to lucrative endorsement deals and contributing to his overall net worth.
Personal Life & Philanthropy
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MARCH 14: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket against Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during a game at Fiserv. Forum on March 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Further, Kyle Lowry is known for his commitment to his family and his philanthropic efforts. He is married to Ayahna Cornish-Lowry, and the couple has two sons. Lowry’s dedication to his family is often highlighted in interviews and public appearances, showcasing the importance of his role as a husband and father.
Lowry is also actively involved in charitable activities. Through the Lowry Love Foundation, he and his wife work to improve the lives of disadvantaged families in Philadelphia and Toronto. The foundation focuses on education, health, and community development initiatives, reflecting Lowry’s desire to give back to the communities that have supported him throughout his career.
Ryan Garcia is being accused of utilizing illegal performance-enhancing substances. On April 20 in Brooklyn, the boxer emerged victorious over Devin Haney in a widely publicized bout. Ostarine, a prohibited drug, was discovered in Ryan Garcia’s B-sample test, according to ESPN. It is also alleged that his A-sample, which was obtained before the fight with Haney, tested positive for the selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). Regarding the accusations made against the 25-year-old prizefighter, Garcia’s legal team has provided comments.
The lawyers for Garcia, including Paul Greene, Matt Kaiser, Darin Chavez, and Guadalupe Valencia, maintain that their client did not use Ostarine or any other performance-enhancing drug. “Ryan Garcia is committed to clean and fair competition and has never intentionally used any banned substance,” the statement reads. “Soon after being notified of his positive test, Ryan voluntarily had his hair collected and shipped to Dr. Pascal Kintz, the foremost expert in toxicology and hair-sample analysis.” All in all, Garcia’s legal team is asserting his innocence.
Ryan Garcia’s legal representation has put out a strong statement asserting their fighter’s innocence. The statement continues, “The results of Ryan’s hair sample came back negative. This is consistent with contamination and demonstrably proves that Ryan had not ingested Ostarine over a period of time — the only way he would have had any advantage whatsoever in the ring.” His lawyers stated, “Ryan has voluntarily submitted to tests throughout his career, which have always shown negative results. He also tested negative multiple times leading up to the fight against Haney.”
Additionally, Ryan Garcia could be a victim of “supplement contamination,” according to the attorneys. The boxer did not obtain any “performance-enhancing benefit,” according to his camp, prior to his matchup with Devin Haney. His legal team concluded their statement, saying, “We are certain that one of the natural supplements Ryan was using in the lead up to the fight will prove to be contaminated and are in the process of testing the supplements to determine the exact source.” Overall, Ryan Garcia and his team are fighting back against the allegations of PED usage. All in all, the situation will be developing for some time.
