#2018 NBA Draft

[tojifile]

@Satosugu . . . ( ´ ꒳ ` )

Tags: NBAstars!satosugu, model!reader (f!), fluff, pining, competitive!satosugu, no curse au, 2018 style plot, surreal (obvious-fucking-ly)

A/N: I can’t stop thinking about Satosugu x reader fics.. I want them so bad, need them.. ☹️☹️ I will write the most self-indulgent fics about them. They’re my babies (especially Suguru). Someone get me a bf that looks exactly like Geto Suguru and another like Gojo Satoru!!!!!!!! Pretty sure most of the Geto pics I used are from a Satosugu manga fanfic but I can’t even find the original. (I don’t know a lot about bball, so I’m sosososoososososo sorry if this a bit inaccurate)

Links: Masterlist

Gojo Satoru

Geto Suguru

NBAstars!satosugu who always immediately look for you after their games. They know you’re always there to watch and support them.

“Princess!” Satoru yelled from across the court as soon as his eyes met yours. He was more than glad to see you. The ball game had just finished, he and Suguru then looked for you in the crowd. Satoru was delighted to be the first to spot you.

Like always, you happily ran to Satoru. He caught you, picked you up, and hugged you tightly. “You’re covered in sweat.” You huffed into the crook of his neck to which Satoru chuckled softly. He loved your little complaints, especially when your arms were wrapped around his neck.

Suguru then spotted the both of you. He walked over then whined with a faux pout. “Darling.. don’t you think it’s unfair that you’re only hugging Satoru?” He said as he gave you a kiss on your cheek.

NBAstar!suguru who always makes sure to receive a kiss from you before their games. It’s his “lucky charm” he says. You don’t want to jinx the game, right?

“Give me a kiss baby..” he whispered low in your ear to which you happily obliged.

NBAstar!satoru who popularized the “this is for you” look before shooting the ball. The camera that broadcasted the game got the perfect angle of you watching him play and him pointing at you before finishing the quarter. Satoru never missed a shot after looking at you.

NBAstar!suguru who likes to blow you a kiss during games. It makes Satoru jealous and pouty when you blow a kiss back. He was the one who shot the ball!

“That’s supposed to be my kiss!” Satoru whined, “You wish.” Suguru mocked.

NBAstars!satosugu who would sometimes model for companies with you. They’d do brands like Onitsuka Tiger, Calbee, Uniqlo, and other brands that you model for. The public love to see you all together and companies love milking that for publicity.

NBAstar!suguru who always makes sure you have a seat, specifically one he can see you in from the court. He wants to be able to see you and blow those kisses whenever he pleased.

NBAstar!satoru who was the one to convince you to move to the states with them. He didn’t want to leave without you but he also couldn’t deny that getting drafted to the states is a big leap in his career. Satoru made sure you were taken care of in the states and he made sure to hire someone to dote on your needs when they couldn’t.

NBAstar!suguru who was the one who helped you get a modeling gig at a large shoe company.

After training, Suguru was approached by a scout from the brand. He was told that they wanted him and Satoru to model for them. Suguru then called you and Satoru over and he said in full confidence, “We won’t do it if she’s not in it too.”

Soon enough, the three of you got more and more calls from businesses. You became more and more popular, especially with clothing brands.

NBAstar!satoru who loves posting you on his instagram. He makes sure you two look like a couple (he specifically loves this, this, this, and this). Satoru loves being touchy with you and he gushes about it when he talks to Suguru. He loves to brag about you.

His favorite picture of the two of you is when you were laying your pretty little head on his bare chest while taking a nap. He was giving you a soft kiss on the top of your head in the picture. It was so cute and your shippers thought so too! 700k likes in just an hour, breaking his notifications.

NBAstar!suguru who doesn’t post you as much but when he does it’s those intimate and sophisticated pictures. You guys in photoshoots, dinner dates, traveling, teasers (another teaser). He doesn’t love sharing his life to millions but he loves showing you off. (Agora Hills much?)

NBAstars!satosugu who overwhelm you with affection that you just can’t choose one or the other. Lucky for you, they sometimes find a way to share.

However, it’s different with the fans. Some of them say if they were in your situation they wouldn’t know who to choose, others would say you’re leading one of them on, and there would be people who just argue about who you should end up with.

At the end of the day, it’s still your choice. But god do they make it hard. You grew up with them both and you learned to love them both. How could you even decide between Gojo Satoru and Geto Suguru?!

@toxicramune @oh-my-beel @nymphsdomain @morinuu @sweetcoorpse – Comment 🪩 to be on my taglist ! (Part 2?)

[lboogie1906]

Philip Chenier (October 30, 1950) is a former basketball player who was a shooting guard in the NBA for ten seasons. He was a television sports broadcaster for the NBA’s Washington Wizards.

He was born and raised in Berkeley. He graduated from Berkeley High School and played college basketball at UC Berkeley. He was selected fourth in the 1971 NBA Hardship Draft by the Baltimore Bullets and played for them for eight seasons (1971-79). The franchise moved from Baltimore to Washington in 1973, after his second season. He was one of the better shooting guards in the NBA for the first six seasons of his career, but he suffered a back injury early in the 1977–78 season and had season-ending surgery. He was never the same player after that; he came back from his surgery late the next season but never could crack the Bullets’ starting lineup again.

He was released by the Bullets after the 1978–79 season, played briefly for the Indiana Pacers and Golden State Warriors, and retired after the 1980–81 season.

He, who was a 1972 NBA All-Rookie Team selection, averaged 17.2 points per game for his career and was named to three NBA All-Star teams.

In 2017, the Wizards announced that they would retire his #45 jersey. On March 23, 2018, his jersey was retired.

He married Gerry Chenier. He has two daughters, one son, and grandchildren. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[ball-is-life-2006]

My Best NBA Player🔥💯

"Luka Magic" 🔮✨

Luka Dončić  born February 28, 1999) is a Slovenian professional basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He also plays for the Slovenia national team and is regarded as one of the greatest European players of all time.

Dončić with the Dallas Mavericks in 2021

No. 77 – Dallas Mavericks

Position:Point guard / shooting

League:NBA

Born:February 28, 1999 (age 24)

Country: Slovenia

Listed height6 ft 7 in (2.01 m)

Luka Dončić🔥

Dončić shone as a youth player for Union Olimpija before joining the youth academy of Real Madrid. In 2015 he made his debut for the academy's senior team at age 16, becoming the youngest in club history. He led Madrid to the 2018 EuroLeague title, winning the EuroLeague MVP and the Final Four MVP. Dončić was named the ACB Most Valuable Player and won back-to-back EuroLeague Rising Star and ACB Best Young Player awards. In addition, he was selected to the EuroLeague 2010–20 All-Decade Team.

In 2018, Dončić declared for the NBA draft, where he was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks and then traded to the Dallas Mavericks.[note 1] He was selected unanimously to the NBA All-Rookie First Team and won Rookie of the Year for the 2018–19 season. In his next four seasons, he was selected to the NBA All-Star game and named to the All-NBA First Team. He is the Mavericks' franchise leader in career triple-doubles.

Dončić made his senior debut for Slovenia in 2016 at only 17 years of age. He would later help his country win its first EuroBasket title in 2017 while also being named to the All-Tournament team.

[bigboimoose]

TRUE OR FALSE: The 2018 NBA Draft is one of the greatest draft classes of all-time

1. Luka Doncic

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

3. Trae Young

4. Jalen Brunson

5. Jaren Jackson Jr.

6. DeAndre Ayton

7. Mikal Bridges

8. Anfernee Simons

9. Michael Porter Jr.

10. Collin Sexton

11. Miles Bridges

12. Gary Trent Jr.

13. Wendell Carter Jr.

14. Mitchell Robinson

NOTABLE PLAYERS

Bruce Brown

Donte DiVincenzo

Robert Williams III

Duncan Robinson

De’Anthony Melton

Moritz Wagner

Kevin Huerter

Grayson Allen

Jarred Vanderbilt

Lonnie Walker IV

Devonte Graham

Josh Okogie

Shake Milton

Troy Brown Jr.

Mo Bamba

Marvin Bagley III

Landry Shamet

Jae’Sean Tate

Solid draft. It may end up top 5

[izzykish]

Kevin Durant is a professional basketball player known for his scoring ability and versatility. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, he played for the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA.

Kevin Durant is a professional basketball player born on September 29, 1988, in Washington, D.C. He is widely regarded as one of the best players in the NBA. Durant played college basketball at the University of Texas for one season before declaring for the 2007 NBA Draft.

He was selected as the second overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics (later relocated to Oklahoma City and became the Thunder). Durant played for the Thunder from 2007 to 2016, earning multiple scoring titles and MVP awards.

In 2016, Durant joined the Golden State Warriors, where he won two NBA championships (2017, 2018) and earned NBA Finals MVP both times. In 2019, Durant signed with the Brooklyn Nets, but he missed the entire 2019-2020 season due to an Achilles injury. He returned to the court in the 2020-2021 season with the Nets.

Durant is known for his scoring ability, versatility, and basketball IQ. He has been selected to numerous NBA All-Star Games and has won various awards throughout his career. Keep in mind that specific statistics and achievements may have changed since my last update in January 2022.

[rockislandadultreads]

Nonfiction Thursday: Sports Biographies & Memoirs

One Jump at a Time by Nathan Chen

When three-year-old Nathan Chen tried on his first pair of figure skates, magic happened. But the odds of this young boy--one of five children born to Chinese immigrants--competing and making it into the top echelons of figure skating were daunting. Chen's family didn't have the resources or access to pay for expensive coaches, rink time, and equipment. But Nathan's mother, Hetty Wang, refused to fail her child. Recognizing his tremendous talent and passion, she stepped up as his coach, making enormous sacrifices to give Nathan the opportunity to compete in this exclusive world.

That dedication eventually paid off at the 2022 Olympic Games in Beijing, where Chen--reverently known as the Quad King--won gold, becoming the first Asian-American man to stand at the highest podium in figure skating. In this moving and inspiring memoir Chen opens up for the first time, chronicling everything it took to pursue his dreams. Bolstered by his unwavering passion and his family's unconditional support, Chen reveals the most difficult times he endured, and how he overcame each obstacle-from his disappointment at the 2018 Olympic Games, to competing during a global pandemic, to the extreme physical and mental toll the sport demands.

Pulling back the curtain on the figure skating world and the Olympics, Chen reveals what it was really like at the Beijing Games and competing on the US team in the same city his parents had left--and his grandmother still lived. Poignant and unfiltered, told in his own words, One Jump at a Time is the story of one extraordinary young man--and a testament to the love of a family and the power of persistence, grit, and passion.

The Rise by Mike Sielski

Kobe Bryant’s death in January 2020 did more than rattle the worlds of sports and celebrity. The tragedy of that helicopter crash, which also took the life of his daughter Gianna, unveiled the full breadth and depth of his influence on our culture, and by tracing and telling the oft-forgotten and lesser-known story of his early life, The Rise promises to provide an insight into Kobe that no other analysis has.

In The Rise , readers will travel from the neighborhood streets of Southwest Philadelphia―where Kobe’s father, Joe, became a local basketball standout―to the Bryant family’s isolation in Italy, where Kobe spent his formative years, to the leafy suburbs of Lower Merion, where Kobe’s legend was born. The story will trace his career and life at Lower Merion―he led the Aces to the 1995-96 Pennsylvania state championship, a dramatic underdog run for a team with just one star player―and the run-up to the 1996 NBA draft, where Kobe’s dream of playing pro basketball culminated in his acquisition by the Los Angeles Lakers.

This is more than a basketball book. This is an exploration of the identity and making of an icon and the effect of his development on those around him―the essence of the man before he truly became a man.

The Last Folk Hero by Jeff Pearlman

From the mid-1980s into the early 1990s, the greatest athlete of all time streaked across American sports and popular culture. Stadiums struggled to contain him. Clocks failed to capture his speed. His strength was legendary. His power unmatched. Video game makers turned him into an invincible character—and they were dead-on. He climbed (and walked across) walls, splintered baseball bats over his knee, turned oncoming tacklers into ground meat. He became the first person to simultaneously star in two major professional sports, and overtook Michael Jordan as America’s most recognizable pitchman. He was on our televisions, in our magazines, plastered across billboards. He was half man, half myth.

Then, almost overnight, he was gone.

He was Bo Jackson.

Drawing on an astonishing 720 original interviews, New York Times bestselling sportswriter Jeff Pearlman captures as never before the elusive truth about Jackson, Auburn University’s transcendent Heisman Trophy winner, superstar of both the NFL and Major League Baseball and ubiquitous “Bo Knows” Nike pitchman. Did Bo really jump over a parked Volkswagen? (Yes.) Did he actually run a 4.13 40? (Yes.) During the 1991 flight that nearly killed every member of the Chicago White Sox, was he in the cockpit trying to help? (Oddly, yes. Or no. Or … maybe.)

Path Lit by Lightning by David Maraniss

Jim Thorpe rose to world fame as a mythic talent who excelled at every sport. He won gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, was an All-American football player at the Carlisle Indian School, the star of the first class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and played major league baseball for John McGraw’s New York Giants. Even in a golden age of sports celebrities, he was one of a kind.

But despite his colossal skills, Thorpe’s life was a struggle against the odds. As a member of the Sac and Fox Nation, he encountered duplicitous authorities who turned away from him when their reputations were at risk. At Carlisle, he dealt with the racist assimilationist philosophy “Kill the Indian, Save the Man.” His gold medals were unfairly rescinded because he had played minor league baseball. His later life was troubled by alcohol, broken marriages, and financial distress. He roamed from state to state and took bit parts in Hollywood, but even the film of his own life failed to improve his fortunes. But for all his travails, Thorpe did not succumb. The man survived, complications and all, and so did the myth.

[news-360]

Luka Dončić was born on February 28, 1999. He is a Slovenian professional basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA. Dončić started his career with Real Madrid of Spain, winning the EuroLeague MVP and the title in 2018. Drafted third overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, he quickly became an elite presence in the league with his incredible playmaking, scoring, and basketball IQ. Luka has been one of the frequent selections of the NBA All-Star because of clutch performances with triple-doubles. Inimitable size, skill, and court vision put him as one of the brightest young stars in the league and an international icon for basketball.

[whimsicallic004]

Stephen Curry: A Basketball Icon and Why He Deserves 'The Best MVP' in 2024

A Brief Biography of Stephen Curry in the NBA

Stephen Curry, often simply known as Steph, is undoubtedly one of the most influential figures in modern basketball. Born on March 14, 1988, in Akron, Ohio, Curry grew up in a basketball family. His father, Dell Curry, was an NBA player, and it was clear early on that Stephen had the potential to follow in his footsteps. However, what set him apart wasn’t just his basketball pedigree—it was his unique style of play, especially his remarkable shooting ability.

Curry's journey to the NBA wasn't typical. He played college basketball at Davidson College, where he gained national attention, especially during the NCAA tournament. In 2009, the Golden State Warriors selected him with the 7th overall pick in the NBA Draft, and from that point on, Curry began his rise to superstardom.

Over the years, Curry has led the Warriors to three NBA championships (2015, 2017, and 2018) and earned two MVP awards (2015, 2016). But beyond the accolades, what truly defines Curry is the impact he's had on the game of basketball. His shooting range, precision, and ability to change the tempo of a game have made him a revolutionary figure in the sport. In 2021, Curry broke the record for most three-pointers made in NBA history, solidifying his place as one of the greatest players to ever step foot on the court.

Why Stephen Curry Deserves to Be 'The Best MVP' in 2024

As we head into 2024, Stephen Curry remains one of the most dominant and influential players in the NBA. But beyond the stats, here’s why he’s the perfect candidate to take home the MVP award this year:

1. Revolutionising the Game of Basketball

Curry has fundamentally altered how basketball is played, not just in the NBA, but globally. Before Curry, the three-point shot wasn’t as central to the game as it is now. His ability to shoot from virtually anywhere on the court has forced every team in the league to adjust their strategies. What Curry has done is more than just break records—he’s changed the very nature of the game, making the three-pointer a primary weapon for teams everywhere.

2. Leadership that Inspires

Curry isn’t just a talented player; he’s a leader. His leadership goes beyond scoring points. He’s the kind of player who lifts his teammates, keeps their spirits high, and motivates them to play better, even in challenging times. His selflessness on the court, combined with his humility off it, makes him the perfect role model. Curry’s leadership is the reason the Warriors have been able to remain competitive year after year, even through injuries and roster changes.

3. Mental Resilience and Determination

Stephen Curry’s career hasn’t been without its setbacks. He’s battled significant injuries, including issues with his knee and hand, which at times threatened to derail his career. But Curry's ability to bounce back stronger from adversity is one of his most admirable qualities. As we’ve seen in 2024, despite facing age and competition from younger players, Curry continues to be one of the league’s top performers. His resilience is something that truly sets him apart.

4. Making His Teammates Better

One of the most underrated aspects of Curry’s game is his ability to make everyone around him better. He’s not just a scorer; he’s a playmaker who knows how to create opportunities for others. His court vision and unselfishness have turned him into one of the best facilitators in the league. Curry’s presence on the floor elevates the performance of his teammates, which is why the Warriors continue to thrive, even when other stars on the team are injured or underperforming.

5. Consistency in Performance

It’s easy for players to have one or two standout seasons, but what makes Curry truly remarkable is his consistency. Year in and year out, he’s been one of the top players in the league, regardless of the circumstances. In 2024, despite being in his 30s, Curry is still averaging impressive numbers and remains the driving force behind Golden State’s success. His ability to maintain such a high level of play for so long is a testament to his skill and work ethic.

6. Warriors' Resurgence in 2024

After a few seasons of struggle, the Golden State Warriors are back on track, and a huge part of that resurgence is Curry. While other teams may have risen to prominence in recent years, the Warriors, led by Curry, have once again become one of the most feared teams in the NBA. His leadership, shooting, and playmaking continue to drive the Warriors’ success, and it’s clear that Curry is still the engine that powers this team.

7. Off-Court Influence

What makes Curry truly unique is his ability to influence both on and off the court. He’s not just a basketball player; he’s a global icon. Curry has used his platform to advocate for social causes, support charitable initiatives, and inspire millions of people worldwide. His impact extends far beyond the game itself, and that’s part of what makes him such a special player.

Conclusion:

In 2024, Stephen Curry has proven time and time again that he’s not just one of the best players in the NBA, but one of the greatest to ever play the game. His shooting, leadership, and resilience make him the perfect candidate for MVP, but it’s his influence on the game, his teammates, and the culture of basketball that truly sets him apart. Curry has changed the game in ways few players ever will, and as the Warriors continue to contend for championships, his legacy is far from finished.

The title of MVP 2024 would be the perfect recognition for a player who has not only dominated on the court but has revolutionized the game itself. Stephen Curry is more than deserving of this honor, and as the NBA continues to evolve, it’s clear that Curry will remain at the forefront of this new era of basketball.

[greatgiftus]

Top Trending Rookie Cards 2024

Top Trending Rookie Cards: The Ultimate Guide for Collectors and Investors

Rookie cards are the cornerstone of sports card collecting. They represent the first official cards of athletes, capturing the beginning of their professional journeys. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, staying updated on the top trending rookie cards is essential for building a valuable and exciting collection.

In recent years, the sports card market has exploded in popularity, with rookie cards leading the charge. From Hall of Fame legends to up-and-coming stars, these cards are in high demand. This guide dives into the top trending rookie cards, why they’re significant, and how you can make the most of this exciting hobby.

What Makes a Rookie Card “Trending”?

Rookie cards trend for several reasons:

Player Performance: A breakout season, record-setting performance, or championship win can skyrocket a player’s card value.

Market Trends: Growing interest in specific sports or players fuels demand.

Rarity and Quality: Limited-edition parallels and high-grade cards (e.g., PSA 10 or BGS 9.5) are especially valuable.

Fan Engagement: Popular players with a loyal following often see increased demand for their rookie cards.

These factors create a dynamic market, with certain cards rising to prominence based on timing, rarity, and player popularity.

The Top Trending Rookie Cards of the Moment

1. Victor Wembanyama Rookie Card

Why It’s Popular: The 7’4” French basketball phenom has taken the NBA by storm, earning comparisons to generational talents like LeBron James. His rookie cards are highly sought after due to his hype, skills, and potential to reshape the game.

Hot Picks: Look for the 2023-24 Panini Prizm and National Treasures rookie cards. Special parallels and autographs are particularly in demand.

2. Shohei Ohtani – Baseball (2018 Topps & Bowman)

Why It’s Trending: Ohtani’s two-way dominance as a pitcher and hitter has redefined baseball greatness.

Key Cards: His 2018 Topps Update rookie card and Bowman Chrome autographs are must-haves.

Investment Potential: As Ohtani’s legacy grows, his rookie cards are becoming cornerstone pieces in baseball collections.

3. Patrick Mahomes – Football (2017 Panini)

Why It’s Trending: Already a two-time Super Bowl champion, Mahomes’ cards remain a top choice for football collectors.

Key Cards: Prizm, Contenders Rookie Ticket, and National Treasures Rookie Patch Autos.

Market Insights: With Mahomes still in his prime, demand for his rookie cards continues to soar.

4. Connor Bedard – Hockey (2023 Upper Deck)

Why It’s Trending: The first overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, Bedard is expected to be hockey’s next superstar.

Key Features: Young Guns rookie cards from Upper Deck are leading the charge.

Investment Potential: Bedard’s early career performance will dictate the value of his cards, but the hype is undeniable.

5. Bobby Witt Jr. – Baseball (2020 Bowman Chrome)

Why It’s Trending: Witt Jr.’s power-hitting and athleticism have made him a fan favorite.

Key Cards: Bowman Chrome autographs and parallels are especially sought after.

Market Insights: As he cements his status as a cornerstone player, his cards continue to rise in value.

6. Justin Jefferson – Football (2020 Panini Prizm & Optic)

Why It’s Trending: Widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top wide receivers, Jefferson’s highlight-reel catches have captivated fans.

Key Features: Prizm and Optic rookie cards, along with rare autographed parallels.

Market Insights: Jefferson’s consistent performance makes his rookie cards a hot commodity.

7. Julio Rodríguez – Baseball (2022 Topps)

Why It’s Trending: “J-Rod” has quickly become one of MLB’s brightest stars.

Key Cards: Look for parallels and autographs from the 2022 Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome sets.

Investment Potential: With his star continuing to rise, Rodríguez rookie cards are a solid investment.

8. Trevor Lawrence – Football (2021 Panini)

Why It’s Trending: As the face of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Lawrence is living up to his billing as a generational quarterback.

Key Features: Prizm, Select, and National Treasures rookie cards, especially low-numbered parallels.

Market Insights: Strong performances have solidified his place in the football card market.

9. Cade Cunningham – Basketball (2021 Panini Prizm)

Why It’s Trending: A versatile guard and the 2021 NBA Draft’s first overall pick, Cunningham is a rising star.

Key Features: Prizm rookie cards and National Treasures autographs are highly collectible.

Market Insights: His potential as a franchise player drives demand for his cards.

10. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo – Soccer (2004 Panini Mega Cracks & 2002 Panini Stickers)

Why They’re Trending: As global icons, Messi and Ronaldo’s rookie cards are evergreen collectibles.

Key Features: Rare cards from their early years, particularly PSA-graded versions.

Investment Potential: These legends’ continued relevance ensures their rookie cards remain highly valuable.

How to Identify the Best Rookie Cards

When evaluating rookie cards, consider the following factors:

Brand and Series: Iconic brands like Panini Prizm, Topps Chrome, and National Treasures carry a premium.

Rarity: Low-print parallels, autographs, and serial-numbered cards are more valuable.

Condition: Cards graded Gem Mint (PSA 10, BGS 9.5) fetch significantly higher prices.

Player Potential: Look for players with long-term career upside and fan appeal.

Historical Significance: Cards of legendary players often hold steady or increase in value over time.

Investment Tips for Trending Rookie Cards

Start Small: If you’re new to collecting, begin with affordable base rookie cards before diving into premium options.

Focus on Graded Cards: Third-party grading authenticates and evaluates the condition of cards, ensuring long-term value.

Stay Informed: Follow player performance and market trends to make strategic buying decisions.

Diversify Your Collection: Invest in rookie cards from multiple sports and players to mitigate risks.

Preserve Your Cards: Use protective sleeves and cases to maintain card quality.

The Future of Rookie Card Collecting

The sports card hobby is experiencing a golden age, with rookie cards leading the charge. As new stars emerge and established players continue to make history, the demand for high-quality rookie cards will only grow. Staying ahead of trends and identifying breakout players early can provide both excitement and financial rewards.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a passionate collector, or an investor seeking high-growth opportunities, trending rookie cards are your gateway to one of the most exciting markets in sports memorabilia. From Patrick Mahomes to Victor Wembanyama, these cards represent not only the future of their respective sports but also the evolving landscape of the sports card hobby.

Start exploring trending rookie cards today and build a collection that celebrates the stars of tomorrow!

Top Trending Rookie Cards

John Elway rookie card, Wembanyama rookie card, Bryce Harper rookie cards, Larry Bird rookie card, Luka Doncic rookie card, Chris Webber rookie card, Jo Adell rookie card, Randy Moss rookie cards, Bobby Witt jr rookie card, Baker Mayfield rookie card, Aaron Rodgers rookie card, Patrick Mahomes rookie card, Joe Burrow rookie card, Alex Rodriguez rookie card, Jordan Love rookie card, Kyler Murray rookie card.

Why Rookie Cards Are Always in Demand

Rookie cards represent the beginning of a player’s career, making them a cornerstone of the sports card hobby. Whether you’re a collector chasing your favorite athletes or an investor looking for potential future value, rookie cards offer excitement, nostalgia, and financial opportunity.

Explore the top trending rookie cards today and add these future legends to your collection!

[smartupworld]

Anfernee Simons: Rising Star in the NBA

Anfernee Simons has emerged as one of the most promising young talents in the NBA, showcasing a unique blend of skill, athleticism, and determination. Born on June 8, 1999, in Altamonte Springs, Florida, Simons has made a name for himself since being drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft. Early Life and Development Simons’ basketball journey began in his…

[nbatrades]

New York Knicks Pluck Rose for a Second Time; Acquiring Derrick Rose from Detroit Pistons

On February 8th, 2021, the New York Knicks traded guard Dennis Smith Jr. and a 2021 second round draft pick (Isaiah Livers) to the Detroit Pistons for guard Derrick Rose. Detroit also received a trade exception.

When the New York Knicks dealt burgeoning star Kristaps Porzingis in a mega seven-player deal with the Dallas Mavericks, the trade was seen as a loss for the Knicks in the immediate but there was some hope for the future. The team acquired two first round picks from Dallas, but another piece for the future was Dennis Smith Jr.

A top-ten overall draft pick in 2017, Smith showcased scintillating athleticism but a questionable outside shot left more questions than answers in his future fit as a lead guard.

With the Knicks on a path towards another rebuild, Smith would get a chance to play during the second half of the 2018-19 season after the trade. The guard played in 21 games (18 starts) with the Knicks, amassing 14.7 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 5.4 APG and 1.3 SPG.

Though Smith had his moments like a 31-point outburst against the Detroit Pistons or a solid runner-up performance in the 2019 dunk contest, his efficiency numbers were concerning. His true shooting percentage was just 47.3%.

The Knicks continued to be one of the worst teams in the trade, going 7-24 over the final 31 games to finish 17-65. Despite having the worst record in the NBA, the Knicks had high hopes for the 2019 offseason.

New York was looking for luck in the lottery so they could grab the number one overall pick and select Duke star Zion Williamson. On the free agent front, the Knicks had two max salary slots and were eyeing stars like Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Jimmy Butler and Kawhi Leonard.

All of those goals would never come to fruition. New York fell to third in the 2019 draft and selected Williamson's college teammate RJ Barrett. Durant and Irving opted for crosstown rivals the Brooklyn Nets, while Butler went to the Miami Heat and Leonard chose the Los Angeles Clippers.

With not much of a backup plan, the Knicks signed several short-term deals with mid-tier free agents including Julius Randle, Marcus Morris Sr., Bobby Portis, Taj Gibson, Reggie Bullock and Elfrid Payton.

The new look Knicks got off to a rough start, going 4-18 in the first 22 games. Head coach David Fizdale was fired and replaced by assistant Mike Miller on an interim basis. The Fizdale exit had been in the cards.

After a November 10 108-87 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers dropped New York to a 2-8 record, Knicks president of basketball operations Steve Mills and general manager Scott Perry addressed the media, saying the team had fallen short of expectations.

"We just felt like given that this is our 10th game, we felt that we had an obligation to come and speak to [the media]. Obviously, Scott and I are not happy with where we are right now. We think the team is not performing to the level that we anticipated or we expected to perform at, and that's something that we think we collectively have to do a better job of delivering the product on the floor that we said we would do at the start of this season. ... We still believe in our coaching staff. We believe in the plan Scott and I put together and the players that we assembled. But we also have to acknowledge that we haven't played at the level we expected to play at."

The statement seemed to be an early sign that Fizdale would be fired. Under Miller, the Knicks played slightly better but still were clearly not playoff caliber. New York reached 21-45, before the NBA season was shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Smith had done very little in his first full season with the Knicks as Fizdale went other routes with point guard. Rookie RJ Barrett started at the point in the season opener. Elfrid Payton and Frank Ntilikina also started as the season progressed.

Smith saw limited minutes initially with the Knicks and missed some time due to the passing of his stepmother. He saw spot minutes throughout New York's season of dysfunction and even started a few games. Throughout the season, Smith appeared in 34 games (three starts) and amassed 5.5 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 2.9 APG and 0.8 SPG in 15.8 MPG.

New York went on a full reset throughout 2020. The club let go of team president Steve Mills and replaced him with former NBA agent Leon Rose. Later on, Rose hired his former client Tom Thibodeau as head coach.

In the truncated 2020 offseason, New York added rookie Immanuel Quickley in a draft night trade and Austin Rivers in a separate trade. The moves created even more of a crowd in the backcourt. The Knicks gave Smith some time in preseason, but by the regular season he was mostly out of the rotation.

Smith played in just three (3.0 PPG and 1.0 APG in 9.3 MPG) of the team's first 24 games before he was moved with a second round pick to the Detroit Pistons for Derrick Rose. The situation had been so dire that Smith had even requested to play for the Knicks' G-League team in the G-League bubble right before the trade.

He ended his time in New York with 8.7 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 3.7 APG and 1.0 SPG in 58 games. The guard shot 38% from the field, 28% from the three-point line and 56% from the free-throw line.

After a strong season as a sixth man for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Derrick Rose was able to keep his career in drive by signing a two-year, $15 million contract with the Detroit Pistons.

The guard was expected to be in a similar role as a scorer off the bench for the Pistons. Star Blake Griffin missed start the season due to a knee injury and the Pistons season quickly fell off the rails. Detroit started the season 4-10 and fell out of the playoff race quickly.

The Pistons decided to rebuild somewhat, trading center Andre Drummond to the Cleveland Cavaliers and bought starting point guard Reggie Jackson out of his contract. The Pistons continued to lose, falling to 20-46 before the NBA season was shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Once the NBA season resumed in the bubble in Orlando, Florida, the Pistons did not qualify for the bubble due to their record. Rose was solid even though he dealt with a few minor injuries. In 50 games, Rose managed 18.1 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 5.6 APG and 0.8 SPG in 26.0 MPG.

The 2020 offseason saw Detroit continue its rebuild. The team drafted Killian Hayes seventh in the 2020 draft, and also acquired first round picks Saddiq Bey and Isaiah Stewart through trades. The Pistons also added forward Jerami Grant though a sign-and-trade deal with the Denver Nuggets.

The Pistons began the year 1-7 and at 5-18, the club moved on from Rose, dealing him to the New York Knicks for Dennis Smith and a second round pick. As part of the trade, the Pistons created a $2 million trade exception.

Rose appeared in 15 games at the time of the trade and posted 14.2 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 4.2 APG and 1.2 SPG in 22.8 MPG. In 65 games with the Pistons, Rose put up 17.2 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 5.2 APG and 0.9 SPG. The guard posted shooting splits of 48/31/86 in that time.

When the Knicks acquired Derrick Rose, it seemed like the perfect match. Rose was reunited with head coach Tom Thibodeau for a third stint. The guard had previously been an MVP under Thibodeau's coaching with the Chicago Bulls. He then had somewhat of a rebirth rejoining Thibodeau with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Rose was brought in to add some scoring punch to a limited Knicks offensive lineup. New York was 11-14 when it acquired Rose. The team was ranked sixth in defensive efficiency, but was just 24th in offense.

Rose assumed a bench role, often playing with effective scoring rookie Immanuel Quickley, but he also closed many games with the starters. New York gradually played better as the season went on. With the team in eighth place with a 25-27 record, New York went on a massive run, going 16-4 over the final 20 games to finish 41-31. The finish got the Knicks to fourth place in the Eastern Conference after beating out the Atlanta Hawks in a head-to-head tiebreaker.

Rose played a significant part in New York's rise. The guard appeared in 35 games with the Knicks and compiled 14.9 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 4.2 APG and 0.9 SPG in 26.8 MPG. In the 937 minutes Rose was on the floor, the Knicks outscored opponents by 10.6 points per 100 possessions per NBA Stats.

The playoffs were a significant moment for the Knicks. The team faced the Atlanta Hawks and star Trae Young in the first round. Game One was the first postseason game played at New York's home arena Madison Square Garden in eight years. The game was very close throughout. In the fourth quarter, Knicks wing Alec Burks knocked down a three-pointer to give New York a 92-87 lead with 4:46 left in the game.

Atlanta answered with a 10-1 run in two minutes to take a 97-93 lead. Knicks wing RJ Barrett made a layup and forward Julius Randle knocked down a three to give the Knicks a 98-97 edge. A Trae Young three-point play was followed by two buckets from Burks that gave New York a 103-100 lead with 1:11 left.

Atlanta's Bogdan Bogdanovic nailed a three to tie the game with 55 seconds left. Barrett fouled Young on a drive with 28 seconds left and the guard hit two freebies to give the Hawks a 105-103 lead. Rose knocked down a midrange floater with 10 seconds left to tie the game.

After an Atlanta timeout, the Knicks took Rose out and put in defender Frank Ntilikina. With Ntilikina guarding him, Young was able to penetrate and make a contested floater with 0.9 seconds left. Randle was unable to get off a shot in time as Atlanta took a 1-0 series lead with a 107-105 win.

In the second game, Atlanta had control for much of the first half, taking a 57-44 lead at halftime. Coach Thibodeau went with Rose as a starter in the second half over Elfrid Payton. After Atlanta took a 67-55 lead with 7:43 left, New York went on a 21-8 run over the rest of the quarter to take a 76-75 lead into the fourth period.

The Knicks built a 10-point lead, but the Hawks tied the score 91-all with 5:06 left. Over the rest of the game, the Knicks outscored Atlanta 10-1 to tie the series with a 101-92 victory. Rose had a team-high 26 points and New York's bench outscored Atlanta's 55-22.

As the series scene shifted to Atlanta, Coach Thibodeau permanently moved Rose into a starting point guard role. The move seemed to work as Rose had 11 points in the first quarter and the Knicks took a 31-29 at the end of the opening frame of Game Three.

However, the Hawks went on a 22-5 run in the final 7:19 of the second quarter to take a 58-44 halftime lead. New York could never cut the deficit under single digits in the second half as Atlanta won 105-94. Rose had 30 points in the loss.

Game Four was close early on, but the Hawks turned a four-point halftime advantage into an 88-71 lead at the end of the third quarter. Young scored 27 points as Atlanta cruised to a 113-96 victory. In the series finale, Young had 36 points and Atlanta pulled away in the fourth quarter and held on for an easy 103-89 win. Atlanta won the series 4-1.

New York looked overmatched in the five-game series as its star Julius Randle struggled to score. Rose was a bright spot in the disappointment. He was New York's best offensive player, averaging 19.4 PPG on 47.6% from the field, 47.1% from the three-point line, 4.0 RPG and 5.0 APG in 35.0 MPG. By the end of the series, he did struggle to deal with the increased minutes and had a few "knick-knack" injuries by the end of it.

New York's surprise playoff appearance led to the team bringing back a group of free agents. The Knicks re-signed Alec Burks and Nerlens Noel to three-year contracts. After his strong playoff run, the Knicks rewarded Rose with a three-year, $43 million deal with a team option in the final year.

But the team knew there needed to be an infusion of offensive talent after its weak offensive performance in the first round. To address the issue, New York signed guard Evan Fournier from the Boston Celtics to a four-year, $78 million contract. The club also signed guard Kemba Walker to a two-year, $18 million deal.

The Knicks arrived to the 2021-22 season with increased expectations after the third place finish the previous season. The beginning of the season looked good as New York won five of its first six games. However, the team went 7-15 over the next 22 games. The Knicks see-sawed around the .500 mark, reaching 22-21 after 43 games.

The season would fall apart from that point. New York went 3-17 over the next 20 games to fall to 25-38. New York played better down the stretch but finished out of the playoff picture with a 37-45 record.

Rose began the season as a backup to Walker and continued to play with Quickley in the backcourt for the second unit. Ineffective play from Walker led coach Thibodeau to remove the point guard. That coupled with a rash of COVID-19 positive tests forced Rose into a few starts in December.

Rose injured his right ankle in a mid-December game against the Houston Rockets. Eventually, he underwent ankle surgery and was ruled out for eight weeks.

Rose was expected to return in February or March, but he later had a procedure on the same right ankle. He never returned as New York failed to qualify for the playoffs. Rose saw action in 26 games (four starts) and produced 12.0 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 4.0 APG, 0.8 SPG and 0.5 BPG in 24.5 MPG.

After the disappointing season, New York went back to the drawing board in the 2022 offseason. The club made a splash at the 2022 draft, offloading Walker, Burks and Noel along with draft picks in various deals to free up cap space.

New York used that cap space to sign guard Jalen Brunson from the Dallas Mavericks to a four-year, $104 million deal. The club also re-signed center Mitchell Robinson and added center Isaiah Hartenstein from the Los Angeles Clippers in a two-year, $16 million deal.

The Knicks looked to bounce back from a year out of the postseason. The team hovered around .500 but eventually fell to 10-13 after 23 games. That 23rd game was a pivotal moment for the franchise. In a Saturday afternoon jaunt with the Dallas Mavericks, the Knicks built an early 15-point lead in the first half. Over the next two quarters, Dallas outscored New York 93-46 in an embarrassing 121-100 defeat.

In response to the struggles, the Knicks removed Rose and Cam Reddish from the rotation while adding young guard Miles "Deuce" McBride in their place. Rose and Reddish joined veteran Evan Fournier as permanent bench fixtures.

With more minutes given to the defensive-oriented McBride and guard Quentin Grimes, New York picked up steam. The team strung together eight consecutive wins to reach 18-13. New York would trade wins and losses until the trade deadline. The club dealt Reddish and a first round draft pick to the Portland Trail Blazers for forward Josh Hart.

Hart proved to be the missing piece to New York's success. After he arrived, the Knicks went 17-8 over the final 25 games to finish 47-35, which was fifth in the East.

Rose received occasional minutes in garbage time after fans chanted for him to play at the end of blowouts. But he rarely played after his removal from the rotation. After the turn of the new year, Rose played just two minutes and 21 seconds. He appeared in 27 games, managing 5.6 PPG, 1.5 RPG and 1.7 APG in 12.5 MPG.

The Knicks returned to the playoffs after a season away and faced the fourth seed Cleveland Cavaliers in the opening round. Brunson had 27 points and Hart chipped in 17 points and 10 rebounds as New York took the first game in Cleveland 101-97.

Cleveland had a 20-point lead at halftime of Game Two and held on for a comfortable 107-90 win. Game Three saw Brunson and RJ Barrett combine for 40 points as New York routed Cleveland 99-79. Game Four was closer, but Brunson had a game-high 29 points as the Knicks pulled away with a 102-93 win.

In Game Five, Randle exited early with an ankle sprain. It didn't matter as New York dominated the offensive glass (17 offensive rebounds) in a 106-95 win. Rose played three minutes in the series.

New York advanced to the second round for the first time in 10 years and faced the eighth-seeded Miami Heat. With Randle out for the series opener, New York took an early double digit lead. Miami came back and took control thanks to a 31-20 third quarter advantage. The Knicks cut the deficit to three points on two occasions in the fourth quarter, but Miami held on for a 108-101 win.

In the win, Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler sprained his ankle and missed Game Two. Randle returned for that game and him, Brunson and Barrett teamed up for 79 of New York's 111 points in a six-point win. Butler returned for Game Three and had 28 points. Miami held the Knicks to 34.1% from the field and 20% from three in a 105-86 victory.

New York's offense was slightly better in Game Four, but Miami still led for much of the game and won 109-101. Facing elimination at home, the Knicks fell behind 24-14 in the first quarter. New York bounced back and led by 19 points in the third period. The Heat cut the lead to three points, but New York held on for a 112-103 win and made the series 3-2.

Brunson was amazing in Game Six, putting up 41 points. The game went down to the wire. The Knicks were down 92-90 with the ball and 30 seconds left but Brunson tuned the ball over and Miami eventually held on for a 96-92 victory. New York was eliminated 4-2. Rose did not play in the second round.

In the offseason, the Knicks declined Rose's $15.6 million team option for the 2023-24 season. He became a free agent after and he signed a two-year, $6.5 million contract with the Memphis Grizzlies. Rose ended up appearing in 88 games in his second stint with the Knicks and amassed 11.2 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 3.4 APG and 0.7 SPG. The guard shot 45% from the field, 38% from the three-point line and 91% from the foul line.

Smith played in 20 games with the Pistons after the trade. The high-flying guard managed 7.3 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.0 SPG and 0.7 BPG in 19.6 MPG. The Pistons went 15-34 after the trade, finishing the 2020-21 season with a 20-52 record. Smith became a free agent after the season and signed a training camp deal with the Portland Trail Blazers. He made the Blazers team for the 2021-22 season.

The 2021 second round pick Detroit acquired originally was owned by Charlotte. It ended up 42nd in the 2021 NBA Draft. Detroit used the pick on 6-foot-7 tweener forward Isaiah Livers from the University of Michigan.

A local product from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Livers spent four years in college, evolving from 3.4 PPG as a part-time starting freshman to a double figure scorer in his junior and senior seasons.

In his senior year, Livers was second on the Wolverines team with 13.1 PPG and led the team in three-point shooting. However, Livers' season was cut short when he suffered a stress injury to his right foot in a March quarterfinal game against Maryland in the Big Ten Tournament. He later underwent surgery on the right foot in April.

The foot issue would bleed into Livers' pro career. He missed 2021 Summer League and was unavailable for 59 of the first 60 games of his rookie season. Overall, the forward appeared in 19 games (five starts) and posted 6.4 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 1.1 APG and 0.7 SPG in 20.2 MPG.

Livers also played four games for Detroit's G-League affiliate, the Motor City Cruise. Livers averaged 4.0 PPG and 2.3 RPG in 15.5 MPG. Detroit began the 2021-22 season 1-8 and never recovered. The team was 5-28 after 33 games. The second half of the year was a tad better as the Pistons went 18-31 over the final 49 games to finish 23-59.

After the season, the Pistons held the fifth pick in the 2022 draft and selected point guard Jaden Ivey. The team also acquired the 13th pick in the draft, center Jalen Duren. On the veteran front, Detroit dealt away forward Jerami Grant while adding Alec Burks, Nerlens Noel and Bojan Bogdanovic in trades during the offseason.

Livers played two games for the Pistons' Summer League squad in Las Vegas, managing 14.0 PPG on 44.4% from the field, 4.5 RPG and 1.0 BPG in 30.1 MPG.

During the 2022-23 season, all of the change didn't matter much as Detroit was again one of the worst teams, getting off to a 3-15 start. At 15-42 after 57 games, the Pistons went 2-23 over the final 25 games to finish an NBA-worst 17-65. A key reason for the downfall was 2021 number one overall pick Cade Cunningham missing all but 12 games due to a left shin injury that eventually required surgery.

Livers missed 30 games due to various ailments including a right shoulder sprain, right ankle sprain and a right hip issue. He played in 52 contests (22 starts) and managed 6.7 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.5 SPG and 0.5 BPG in 23.1 MPG.

After the season, coach Dwane Casey resigned and Detroit hired Monty Williams with a then-record six-year, $78.5 million contract. The Pistons had the fifth pick in the 2023 draft and used it on athletic wing Ausar Thompson. The Pistons also added veterans Monte Morris and Joe Harris in trades.

Livers' injury issues continued into his third season. The forward suffered a grade III left ankle sprain and he missed the first 14 games of the season.

Detroit hoped that an established coach in Williams and continued development from its younger players would lead to growth. But the team continued to slide backwards. After winning two of its first three games, Detroit dropped an NBA record 28 consecutive games.

When he did return, Livers struggled to find his game. He appeared in 23 games (six starts) and shot just 34.5% from the field and 28.6% at the three-point line. Livers averaged 5.0 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 1.1 APG and 0.6 SPG in 20.4 MPG.

With the team at 3-36, Detroit made a move, dealing Livers, Marvin Bagley and two second round picks to the Washington Wizards for Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala. Livers showed promise as a potential three-and-D wing but injuries made it hard for him to be consistent.

In two and a half seasons with the Pistons, Livers managed 6.2 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 0.9 APG and 0.6 SPG in 94 games. The 6-7 forward shot 41% from the field, 36% from the three-point line and 79% from the free-throw line in that time.

Derrick Rose on his comfortability in joining the Knicks (via ESPN):

"Even though I couldn't say that at the time, I just wanted to be comfortable. Like I said, I've been knowing these guys ever since high school, eighth grade, high school, so coming here, like I said, it's family. I never really thought about anything else but really getting here and understanding they wanted me to help grow the young guys they've already got here."

On his relationship with Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau:

"The synergy we've got, I can't explain it. We're an odd couple, but for some reason, we understand the game. And the closest thing I probably can say is we're students of the game. We watch the game. We try to understand the game more and try to get better if not every day, every week, every month, every couple of months, every year. There's always room for improvement, and it's for the betterment of the team. Wherever I go, wherever he goes, we're always trying to win."

On playing with Knicks rookie guard Immanuel Quickley:

"It shouldn't be too hard [playing] with him. We're similar. He's getting double-teamed in his rookie year. There ain't too many rookies getting that type of attention. For him to see that kind of early, it's just going to make his game better. The game is going to slow down more. And he listens. That's the greatest thing about him: He listens. With that, you always got room for improvement. "He's a dog. He's a dog. I can't explain it. You've got to be a player to understand it. [If] we're in a fight, I know he's fighting."

Dennis Smith on the trade (via SNY):

"I was super excited, I was super excited. I was down in the G (League) and I was getting ready to play with the guys and have our first scrimmage, and I heard the news and I was just smiling all day. Super excited, couldn't really sleep that night and I'm just looking at it as an opportunity, fresh start -- like me and coach talked about -- and I'm going to make the most out of it."

Why his tenure with the Knicks never panned out:

"I can't -- I'm not sure,. But I will say I'm thankful for the opportunity that they gave me, and to all the people that supported me -- whether it's in media or even the fans that supported me -- I'm thankful for those guys as well."

On going down to the G-League and finding out about the trade:

"So, when I went down to the G (League), it was simply, simply just to play basketball -- I wanted to play basketball. Nothing else to it, like, 'Oh, he moved,' or, 'Such and such, whatever,' it's just I wanted to play basketball and I realized that would give me an opportunity to do that. So I took advantage of it and I went down there like I was ready to hoop. "I was down there with my boy, Myles (Powell), and I actually got close with a lot of guys on the team in the brief time that I was there. So that was just about hooping. And I was smiling hard because, like, I was excited for the opportunity. And I knew what kind of guy (Pistons) coach (Dwane) Casey was -- great coach, great person. So being able to be with him, I was looking forward to that."

On having a chip on his shoulder after the trade:

"It's super refreshing, and I'm going to go out there with a chip on my shoulder that I always had. I'm going to go out there and compete at a high level, try to execute and try to win games. In terms of coming out and trying to prove something, I think it's definitely more important to prove things to myself -- you know what I'm saying? -- and that's what I want to do. "I believe in myself and the people here that believe in me, and I think that's the first step to really tapping into some greatness here."

Detroit Pistons general manager Troy Weaver on the trade (via Pistons.com):

"We welcome Dennis Smith Jr. to the Pistons family. Adding another young player who was a high draft pick alongside a draft asset advances our goals in building for the future. We thank Derrick Rose for his contributions on and off the court during his time as a Piston and wish him and his family well as they move forward."

New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau on Derrick Rose (via NY Daily News):

"He's still one of the elite players in this league."

If Rose is in shape:

"He's lighter than he's ever been. He's telling me this is as healthy as he's been."

On his familiarity as a coach with Rose previously in Chicago and Minnesota:

"It's obviously someone I'm familiar with. We've been through a lot of things together. But the biggest part is what I felt he could contribute to our team. I've always been partial to good players. If someone is a good player, I'm interested. And I think he'll add a lot to our team."

On Rose's ability to be productive everywhere he's gone:

"When you look at what he accomplished after (his time in Chicago), even when you went back to the year he spent in New York, he still averaged 18 points a game. He averaged 18 points a game in Minnesota, he averaged 18 points a game in Detroit. So he's always been able to contribute. When you look at his playoff numbers, he goes to a completely different level."

How adding Rose and Quickley together gives the Knicks more ballhandling capabilities off the bench (via ESPN):

"I think you see it often when you have multiple point guards out on the floor, it gives you another ball handler, secondary ball handler, and you can probably include Alec (Burks) in there, as well. So it gives us three guys that can go off the dribble, and all three are very efficient in pick-and-rolls. Their versatility allows them to actually blend with both groups. So I think we'll see some of that as we go forward, as well."

Pistons head coach Dwane Casey on bringing along Dennis Smith (via The Detroit News):

“It's going to take all of us to help him along, but our coaching staff will assign someone to him to watch film and to go over things with him and the players on the floor will be able to help him. We've got a great group of guys that are willing to mentor and help. That's something that I think won't take very long for him. “He's a smart kid and he's a basketball junkie. One of the first things he said was that he wanted to watch film. He shouldn't have said that because I'm going to take him up on it. He's a good kid, he's got an opportunity, and this is the first team to me as a coach.”

How he gravitates to players that have something to prove:

“It's one of those things where I've always identified with guys like that… You want to bring them into your culture and fit them into your culture. They have something to prove to us and to the rest of the league, whoever that person is. It's not a bad thing and you can look around in sports — New England's done it for years. "It's a little tougher with a young team to bring guys in, but I enjoy it. I enjoy coaching guys like that, taking the challenge on from a coaching standpoint, teaching standpoint, molding standpoint, and let's prove the rest of the league wrong.”

Pistons guard Saben Lee on what he'll miss about Derrick Rose (via The Detroit News):

"I'll definitely miss Derrick. He was a great guy and a great person aside from being a great player. Just being able to hang out with him and get different words of wisdom from him and [being able to] pick his brain."

On Dennis Smith:

"He's an athletic point guard. He can get to the rack and is a really good playmaker."

Image Credit:

Dennis Smith Jr. via Getty Images/Layne Murdoch Jr.

Derrick Rose via Getty Images/Nathaniel S. Butler

[ozzyscollectiblehub]

LeBron James: The King of Basketball

LeBron James is more than just a basketball player — he is an icon whose influence transcends sports. Since entering the NBA in 2003, LeBron has consistently redefined the game, becoming one of the greatest athletes in history. With his unparalleled versatility on the court, commitment to excellence, and impact off the court, LeBron’s legacy is one of dominance, leadership, and social activism.

Early Life and the Making of a Star

Born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio, LeBron Raymone James was a basketball prodigy from a young age. Raised by his single mother, Gloria James, LeBron’s rise from humble beginnings to superstardom is nothing short of remarkable. His basketball talents were evident early on, as he led St. Vincent-St. Mary High School to multiple state championships and was dubbed “The Chosen One” by Sports Illustrated while still a teenager.

By the time the Cleveland Cavaliers selected him as the №1 overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, LeBron was already seen as the future of basketball. He entered the league with immense expectations and, remarkably, has exceeded them over his career.

Dominating the NBA

LeBron’s NBA journey has been marked by consistent greatness. He made an immediate impact as a rookie, averaging 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, and winning the Rookie of the Year award. As his career progressed, LeBron evolved into the complete player — equally adept at scoring, passing, rebounding, and defending. He’s known for his incredible basketball IQ, ability to play all five positions, and making everyone around him better.

LeBron has played for three teams in his career: the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Miami Heat, and the Los Angeles Lakers. His versatility and leadership have led him to four NBA championships (two with the Heat in 2012 and 2013, one with the Cavaliers in 2016, and one with the Lakers in 2020). His ability to adapt and dominate in different team environments is a testament to his greatness and work ethic.

In addition to his championships, LeBron has accumulated countless accolades, including four NBA MVP awards (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013), numerous All-Star appearances, and multiple All-NBA First Team selections. With over 38,000 career points (and counting), LeBron is on the verge of becoming the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s long-standing record.

The Historic 2016 Championship

Perhaps LeBron’s most iconic moment came in 2016 when he led the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first-ever NBA championship. After falling behind 3–1 in the Finals to the Golden State Warriors, LeBron delivered an extraordinary performance, averaging a triple-double over the final three games and famously blocking Andre Iguodala’s shot in Game 7 — an iconic play that sealed Cleveland’s victory. This triumph was not just a championship; it was a moment of redemption and a testament to LeBron’s leadership and determination.

LeBron’s Impact Off the Court

While LeBron’s basketball legacy is secure, his impact off the court is just as significant. He has used his platform to advocate for social justice, education, and equality. In 2018, LeBron opened the I PROMISE School in his hometown of Akron, providing underprivileged students with education, mentorship, and resources. The school is a reflection of LeBron’s commitment to giving back and helping the next generation.

LeBron has also been an outspoken advocate for social justice issues, particularly regarding racial inequality, police brutality, and voting rights. He helped launch the More Than a Vote campaign in 2020, which aimed to combat voter suppression and encourage Black Americans to exercise their right to vote. In an era when athletes are increasingly expected to speak up on social issues, LeBron has embraced his role as a leader and role model.

The Business of LeBron

Beyond basketball and philanthropy, LeBron has become a savvy businessman. Through his company, SpringHill Entertainment, he has ventured into media production, creating films, documentaries, and television shows that highlight social issues and empower communities. He also co-produced the 2021 film Space Jam: A New Legacy, in which he starred as himself — a nod to Michael Jordan’s original Space Jam.

LeBron’s business acumen extends to partnerships with major brands like Nike, with whom he signed a lifetime contract reportedly worth over $1 billion. His entrepreneurial efforts have made him one of the wealthiest athletes in the world, and in 2022, he officially became a billionaire — a rare feat for an active athlete.

The Legacy of LeBron James

As LeBron James continues his career, his legacy is already cemented as one of the greatest players in NBA history. His ability to maintain elite performance deep into his career, playing at an MVP level in his 19th and 20th seasons, is unprecedented. Yet, his legacy goes beyond the numbers and championships. LeBron has redefined what it means to be an athlete in the modern era — an era where athletes are not just competitors but activists, entrepreneurs, and global icons.

When the day comes for LeBron to retire, he will leave behind an indelible mark on the game of basketball and society as a whole. His commitment to his craft, leadership on and off the court, and tireless efforts to uplift his community make him more than just a basketball player — LeBron James is truly a King.

LeBron James has reigned as one of the most dominant athletes of his generation. His journey from a young prodigy in Akron to an NBA superstar, global icon, philanthropist, and businessman is a story of greatness, perseverance, and purpose. Whether it’s on the basketball court, in the boardroom, or in his community, LeBron continues to push boundaries and inspire millions, ensuring his legacy will endure long after his playing days are over.

LeBron James, the King of Basketball, has changed the game forever — both on and off the court.

[lboogie1906]

Karl Anthony Malone (July 24, 1963) is a retired basketball player. Nicknamed “the Mailman”, he played the power forward position and spent his first 18 seasons (1985–2003) in the NBA with the Utah Jazz and formed a formidable duo with his teammate John Stockton. He played one season for the Los Angeles Lakers. He was a two-time NBA MVP, a 14-time NBA All-Star, and an 11-time member of the All-NBA first team. His 36,928 career points scored rank second all-time in NBA history behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and he holds the records for most free throws attempted and made, in addition to being tied for the second-most first-team All-NBA selections with Kobe Bryant and behind LeBron James. He is considered one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history.

Born in Summerfield, Louisiana, he was the youngest of nine children and was raised on a farm by his single mother, Shirley. Shedrick Hay, his father, was married to a different woman and raised a family with her.

He played college basketball at Louisiana Tech University. In his three seasons with Louisiana Tech, he helped the Bulldogs basketball team to its first-ever NCAA tournament and first place in the Southland Conference. The Utah Jazz drafted him in 1985 with the 13th overall pick in the first round. He appeared in the playoffs every season in his career, including the NBA Finals in 1997 and 1998 with the Jazz. He played his final season with the Los Angeles Lakers, with whom he played his third Finals in 2004. He competed in the Summer Olympic Games of 1992 and 1996; he won gold medals. He joined the staff of the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs basketball team in 2007 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

He married Kay Kinseyn (1990), winner of the 1988 Miss Idaho USA pageant. They have four children. K.J. played football at LSU and was invited to the 2018 NFL Combine. He has three other children. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

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Mikal Bridges trade: Next for Knicks? Attention turns to free agency, draft and possible Julius Randle move

The New York Knicks made the biggest move of the NBA offseason late Tuesday night when they reportedly landed Mikal Bridges in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets. In some ways, the move feels like the completion of the roster the Knicks have been building for years. The Villanova teams that won national championships in 2016 and 2018 had four players emerge as successful professionals: Bridges, Jalen…

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Golden triangle tour India by India Golden Triangles Company.

Discover India's Rich Heritage: The Golden Triangle Tour by the India Golden Triangles Company. Introduction The Golden Triangle Tour, presented by India Golden Triangles Company, is an exciting journey through India's cultural heartland. Explore the bustling cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, all rich in history, culture, and architectural treasures.

Delhi: Capital City Extravaganza. H1: Welcome to Delhi! Begin your tour in Delhi, the bustling capital of India. Immerse yourself in the lively blend of ancient tradition and contemporary. H2: Historic Landmarks Explore the historic attractions of Old Delhi, such as the imposing Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Wander around the busy streets of Chandni Chowk and take in the sights and sounds of the city. Agra, home of the iconic Taj Mahal. H1: Journey to Agra. Depart for Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Experience the amazing beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. H2 - Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Witness the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise and learn about its moving love story. Explore the historic Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the stunning architecture. Jaipur: The Pink City. H1: Welcome to Jaipur! Arrive at Jaipur, the bustling city of Rajasthan, noted for its pink-colored architecture. Explore the city's rich history and vibrant bazaars. H2 - Amber Fort and City Palace Take an elephant ride to the beautiful Amber Fort to enjoy its exquisite construction and breathtaking views. Visit the City Palace to see the combination of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. Customized itineraries and experiences H1: Tailored experiences. Choose from a range of Golden Triangle Tour packages customized to your preferences and interests. Customize your trip with specified sites, experiences, and duration. Conclusion Join India Golden Triangles Company on a mesmerizing journey across India's Golden Triangle, where you'll discover the rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture that defines this unique region. From the majestic buildings of Delhi to the timeless beauty of Agra's Taj Mahal and the vibrant streets of Jaipur, this journey offers an extraordinary adventure full with unforgettable memories.

If you're ready for the adventure of a lifetime, book your Golden Triangle Tour with India Golden Triangles Company today!

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Luka Dončić is a Slovenian professional basketball player renowned for his excellent abilities, versatility, and basketball IQ. Dončić, born on February 28, 1999 in Ljubljana, Slovenia, has swiftly become one of the NBA's brightest young talents. Here's a summary of his career and accomplishments:

1. Early life and career beginnings.

Dončić began playing basketball at a young age and developed his skills in his birthplace of Ljubljana. He made his professional debut with Union Olimpija in the Slovenian League at the age of 16, demonstrating his exceptional talent and maturity on the court. 2. Rise to Prominence in Europe.

Dončić received worldwide recognition while for Real Madrid in the Spanish Liga ACB and EuroLeague. He became the youngest player ever to win the EuroLeague MVP award, and he helped Real Madrid to the title in 2018. 3. NBA career

The Dallas Mavericks selected Dončić as the third overall choice in the 2018 NBA Draft. He had an immediate impact in the NBA, winning Rookie of the Year accolades in 2019 and establishing himself as one of the league's most dynamic players. 4. Playing Style and Skills.

Dončić is recognized for his superb ball-handling, court vision, and basketball IQ. He has a rare combination of size, strength, and skill, which allows him to excel as a scorer, playmaker, and rebounder. 5. Individual Achievements.

Dončić has received many All-Star and All-NBA Team distinctions during his brief career. He continues to set records and milestones, such as triple-doubles and game-winning shots. 6. International Success.

Dončić led Slovenia's national basketball team to success in FIBA competitions. He played an important role in Slovenia's historic gold medal run at the 2017 EuroBasket. 7. Impact and Legacy.

Dončić's influence extends beyond basketball, as he is a global ambassador for the game. His reputation continues to rise, motivating a new generation of basketball players in Slovenia and around the world. 8. Future Prospects.

Dončić, a 22-year-old NBA player, is expected to win many MVP honors and lead the Dallas Mavericks to championships. Luka Dončić's rise from a Slovenian prodigy to NBA superstar highlights the importance of skill, hard effort, and determination. As he continues to wow fans with his incredible performances, the basketball world impatiently awaits the next chapter in his great career.

[milehighdad]

DeAndre Jordan (Nuggets 2022-). 9min,4PTS,3REB,1BLK,1STL. 2023-24: 36G,3.9pts,4.4REB,0.7AST,0.4BLK. NBA Champion(2023). Draft 2008 No.35. Clippers(2008-18). Marvericks(2018-19). Nets(2019-21). Lakers(2021-22). All NBA First Team(2016). All NBA Defensive First Team (2015,16). All NBA Third Team(2015,17). Rebound King (2014,15). All Star (2017). デアンドレ・ジョーダン（ナゲッツ 2022−）。 9分出場、4得点3リバウンド1ブロック、1スティール。 2023−24成績：36試合出場、平均3.9得点、4.4リバウンド、0.7アシスト、0.4ブロック。 1055試合出場（現役13位）。 NBA優勝（2023）。 ドラフト2008年35位。 クリッパーズ（2008−18）。 マーベリックス（2018−19）。 ネッツ（2019−21）。 レイカーズ（2021−22）。 オールスター出場（2017）。 オールNBAファーストチーム（2016）。 オールNBAディフェンシブチーム（2015,16）。 オールNBA サードチーム（2015,17）。 リバウンド王（2014,15）。 ワシントン・ウィザーズ対デンバー・ナゲッツ（2022年12月）。 フェニックス・サンズ対ロサンゼルス・クリッパーズ（2017年1月）。