#Clippers/Jazz Game

[girlactionfigure]

Pro-Israel boxing legend Floyd Mayweather sitting courtside at the Clippers vs. Jazz game, proudly rocking Stars of David on his cap.

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[brucebocchi]

Persona characters as NBA fans

my reasoning for each decision beneath the cut

Celtics/Akechi: Driven by an inhuman amount of spite and need to prove themselves when talent alone is more than enough to do the job. Just an insane amount of homophobic slurs

Nets/Labrys: She has a Brooklyn accent. Don’t overthink it.

Knicks/Ryoji: Say the name of the team out loud. You get it.

76ers/Maruki: “The Process” really was just mass brainwashing if you think about it

Raptors/Kamoshida: No hate to the Raptors organization but they really need to eat crow for letting Drake hitch his wagon to the franchise

Hawks/Ruferu: I don’t know shit about P5X but look at the birdy! Trae Young is also small and annoying,

Hornets/Eikichi: I thought the colors matched. I have never played a Persona game.

Magic/Elizabeth: She thinks the team name is literal. Are you going to tell her otherwise?

Heat/Akihiko: You just know he would be really fucking annoying about “Heat Culture”

Wizards/Yusuke: The hat has cherry blossoms on it and that was enough to shape his rooting interests. I’m enjoying giving him hilariously inept franchises.

Bulls/Erina: Nostalgia is all we have left.

Cavaliers/Haru: Haru is extremely rich and speaks exclusively in Comic Sans, just like Dan Gilbert

Pistons/Junpei: Found out about the “Bad Boy” days and was hooked, only to find out he was born a couple years after that era ended.

Pacers/Ken: Young and surprisingly potent on offense, just needs a few years to toughen up a bit

Bucks/Ohya: beer

Mavericks/Izanami: An unfairly powerful being, capable of manipulating the truth, who must be defeated swiftly. But enough about Miriam Adelson

Rockets/Lisa: She’s an enormous Sinophile so you know damn well she latched onto Yao Ming and never let go

Grizzlies/Kanji: “Uh, hell yeah! Grit n’ grind! Whoop that trick! Be a man!” (actually he just really wants to feel Grizz’s fur)

Pelicans/Chie: You cannot convince me that Chie Satonaka is not a pelican herself.

Spurs/Takemi: A color scheme favorable to goths, a history of solid fundamentals, and a total freak on the up-and-up. Victor Wembanyama is over two feet taller than her.

Nuggets/Yukiko: She just keeps picking the good ones man idk what to tell you

Timberwolves/Koromaru: dogy :) 

Thunder/Nanako: Youngest team in the NBA gets everyone’s favorite baby sister

Trail Blazers/Adachi: I like making him suffer with these

Jazz/Teddie: You’d think it’s because he’s the whitest boy imaginable but he read the “Personal Life” section of Karl Malone’s Wikipedia page and was inspired

Warriors/Sophia: If Silicon Valley gets its way, every Warriors fan will be replaced by an AI by 2035

Clippers/Metis: Perpetual younger sibling syndrome. May not actually exist

Lakers/Shido: He’s been courtside at every home game since 1985. You never noticed?

Suns/Konoe: Eternally at the mercy of the whims of an arrogant tech bro when an AI would probably do a better job

Kings/Yosuke: I like giving him moribund franchises but he’s actually picking up some W’s lately. Good for him!

[mielcitronsyrup]

Okay, well....

Scratch all my dumb thoughts and manifesting, then...

I was like well, listen, the Spurs are flying into Chicago today to play the Bulls tomorrow Monday night. Victor and Connor will finally be in the same city again!!! Perhaps, the smalllesssstttt perhaps that is... Connor and some other Blackhawks players will be in attendance. And it wouldn't have even been a reach is the thing! Funnily enough, I've seen more interactions between the NBA and NHL this year than like in the last decade put together lol. The Utah Jazz has embraced the Utah Hockey Club and have had their players go to each other's games. And then just last night I saw that some Anaheim Ducks players went to a Clippers game and chatted with their players...

But after this 6-2 loss to the New York Rangers?..... I don't see any chance whatsoever for Connor or any other guy to make their way down to the United Center arena for the Spurs-Bulls game now lol.. Sighhhhhhh...

[nbatrades]

Charlotte Bobcats Acquire Melvin Ely and Eddie House from Los Angeles Clippers

On July 14th, 2004, the Los Angeles Clippers traded center-forward Melvin Ely and guard Eddie House to the Charlotte Bobcats for a 2005 second round draft pick (Daniel Ewing) and a 2006 second round draft pick (Paul Davis).

The 2001-02 season was a year of disappointment sprinkled in with some hope for the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite missing the playoffs for the fifth straight year, the team won 39 games, its most in nine years. With young players such as Elton Brand, Lamar Odom and Corey Maggette on the roster, the Clippers had hope to build into a legitimate playoff team.

In the 2002 offseason, the Clippers held two picks in the lottery at number eight and 12. First, the team drafted athletic power forward Chris Wilcox from the University of Maryland. Next, the team selected big man Melvin Ely from Fresno State.

A throwback big man with the ability to score in the post with either hand, Ely excelled at the college level. A two-time WAC player of the year, Ely led the Bulldogs in his senior year with 23.3 PPG and 9.1 RPG. After the draft, Ely signed the traditional rookie scale contract for four years with a team option in the last year for $7.3 million.

The Clipper had high hopes for the 2002-03 season after trading for point guard Andre Miller. The team was a disappointment dropping 12 of its first 18 games. Los Angeles fell to third-worst in the West with a 19-39 record, head coach Alvin Gentry was fired. Assistant coach Dennis Johnson took over for the rest of the season. After the coaching change, the Clippers weren't much better, finishing the year with a 27-55 record.

Ely was on the fringes of the Clippers rotation, but injuries to starters Michael Olowokandi, Elton Brand and Lamar Odom in the frontcourt opened up time for the rookie. Ely appeared in 52 games (seven starts) and tallied 4.5 PPG, 3.3 RPG and 0.6 BPG in 15.4 MPG.

The Clippers had somehow compiled four players on the roster who were drafted in the first round of the 1999 draft in Brand, Odom, Miller and Maggette. That meant they all would hit free agency in the summer of 2003. All four players were restricted free agents. On top of that, starting center Olowokandi and reserve Eric Piatkowski were unrestricted free agents.

It would be a key moment in the franchise's history. Los Angeles went halfway in restricted free agency. Brand and Maggette signed offer sheets of six years and $82 million, and six years and $42 million with the Miami Heat and Utah Jazz respectively. The Clippers matched both offers, keeping the two players in Los Angeles.

Miller and Odom both signed six year offer sheets with the Denver Nuggets and Heat respectively. Los Angeles declined to match the offer sheets, losing both starters. Olowokandi signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves while Piatkowski departed for the Houston Rockets.

The Clippers added Eddie House in free agency, signing the combo guard to a two-year, $1.6 million deal. In the first round of the draft, the Clippers added center Chris Kaman. On the coaching front, the Clippers hired head coach Mike Dunleavy in the offseason.

The Clippers started the 2003-04 season 4-2 after six games, but dropped nine of their next 11 games to fall to 6-11. Los Angeles was 24-30 after 54 games and the team finished the season 4-24 over the last 28 games to finish 28-54.

Ely was unhappy in his second season with the Clippers. With the departures of Olowokandi and Odom, there was hope for him to see an uptick in minutes. However, players like the rookie Kaman and fellow 2002 pick Wilcox received more playing time under coach Dunleavy.

The former Fresno State college player hoped to be traded at the deadline but that never happened. Near the end of the regular season, Ely expressed interest in being selected by incoming NBA team the Charlotte Bobcats in the expansion draft. But really, Ely just wanted to join a team where he could receive regular rotation minutes.

"I just want to play, so if that means going to another team, that's what I want to do. Obviously, I'm not a fit here. God willing, I could be somewhere else next season, start everything brand new ... and just try to get onto the court by any means necessary."

Overall, Ely saw action in just 42 games (two starts) with the Clippers and put up 3.7 PPG, 2.4 RPG and 0.5 APG in 12.1 MPG.

House was in a similar role to his previous stop with the Miami Heat. Mainly a reserve, House played in 60 games and made 10 starts. The guard posted 6.8 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 2.4 APG and 1.1 SPG in 19.8 MPG.

Ely's request for a trade didn't work out the exact way he had expected. The Bobcats were interested in taking Ely in the expansion draft, but the Clippers kept him on their list of protected players.

Instead, the Clippers worked out a deal where reserve center Peja Drobnjak was selected by the Bobcats in the expansion draft. Charlotte moved up to the second spot—drafting Emeka Okafor—of the draft while the Clippers moved down to number four—taking guard Shaun Livingston. As part of this arrangement the Clippers also received the 33rd pick in the draft.

Ely eventually got his wish as the Clippers sent him and House to the expansion Bobcats for two future second round picks in 2005 and 2006.

The primary motivation for Los Angeles was to free up cap space to make a run at Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant who entered free agency in the summer of 2004. The Clippers were considered a legitimate threat at signing Bryant because of his interest in staying in the Los Angeles area.

Ely was owed $1.7 million for the 2004-05 season and House's was $825,000. offloading those two salaries cleared a max cap slot for the Clippers to make a run at Bryant which turned out to be unsuccessful. The star guard returned to the Lakers.

Melvin Ely and Eddie House joined the expansion Bobcats after being cast off from the Los Angeles Clippers. Ely played in Summer League for the Bobcats in Salt Lake City. In six games, he contributed 11.7 PPG on 50% shooting and 4.8 RPG in 21.8 MPG.

The Bobcats were bad early on, starting their inaugural season 1-8. The club was just 8-31 after 39 games. Charlotte finished the season 18-64, tied for the second-worst record in the NBA.

House was waived in early December by the Bobcats as the club made room to acquire guard Kareem Rush from the Los Angeles Lakers. He later signed during the season with the Milwaukee Bucks. House played in 13 games (five starts) with Charlotte, compiling 11.1 PPG, 1.5 RPG, 1.8 APG and 1.8 SPG in 23.1 MPG.

Ely saw a boost in playing time with the Bobcats, playing in 79 games (17 starts) and recording 7.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.0 APG and 0.9 BPG in 20.9 MPG.

After the 2004-05 season, the Bobcats drafted point guard Raymond Felton fifth overall and power forward Sean May in the 13th spot of the draft. Charlotte began the 2005-06 season 5-17 which set the tone for another losing season. Charlotte was 26-56 which was an eight-win increase from the previous year.

Ely continued to grow his game as he tallied a career-high 9.8 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.3 APG and 23.6 MPG along with 0.5 SPG and 0.8 BPG during the ‘05-‘06 season. The big man flashed his post up skill on offense to the tune of 30 double digit scoring games in 57 appearances.

Charlotte had the third selection in the 2006 NBA Draft which it used to select Gonzaga University standout Adam Morrison. Ely entered restricted free agency during the 2006 offseason. The post up aficionado reportedly turned down potential sign-and trade offers from the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors. Instead, he signed a one year and $3 million qualifying offer deal with the Bobcats.. 

Due to poor defense and rebounding, Ely lost his place in the rotation to players like Emeka Okafor and Sean May. The dramatic decrease in minutes caused Ely to request a trade. Ely was producing just 2.9 PPG and 1.6 RPG in just 10.2 MPG, through 24 games before he was traded to the San Antonio Spurs. The numbers were a career-low for him.

Ely averaged 7.5 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.0 APG and 0.7 BPG in two and a half years with Charlotte. The big man shot 46% from the field and 62% from the free-throw line in that time in the 160 career games he played with the Bobcats.

The two second rounders the Clippers acquired from Charlotte were juicy. Since the Bobcats were expected to be bad, both second rounders could be in the early 30s.

That happened right away in the 2005 draft. Since Charlotte was tied for the second-worst record in the NBA, the pick it sent to the Clippers was 32nd in the draft. Los Angeles used the pick on guard Daniel Ewing from Duke. Ewing was a productive starter for a quality Blue Devils program, but there were questions about his lack of size, suspect shooting and point guard skills.

The Clippers signed Ewing to a three-year, $1.8 million contract. An undersized combo guard, Ewing played for the Clippers' Summer League team in Las Vegas, recording 8.0 PPG on 37.1% shooting, 2.6 RPG and 1.6 APG in five games.

Los Angeles began the 2005-06 season 5-1 and was 9-2 after 11 games. The winning continued at an unprecedented rate for the franchise's modern history. Los Angeles held the fifth-best record in the Western Conference at 47-35.

The Clippers made the playoffs for the first time since the 1996-97 season, and it was the club's highest win total since 1974-75 when the team went 49-33. The franchise was the Buffalo Braves at that time and played in the Eastern Conference. Ewing played in 66 games in his rookie season, averaging, 14.7 MPG, 3.8 PPG, 1.3 RPG, 1.3 APG and 0.6 SPG in 14.7 MPG.

NBA playoff seeding rules at the time stated that division winners in each conference take the top three seed. Due to that rule, the Clippers were the sixth seed in the Western Conference despite having the fifth-best record in the conference.

The Clippers faced the third-seed Denver Nuggets. Denver was 44-38 and had a worse record than Los Angeles but was the third seed because it won the Northwest Division. Since Los Angeles had the better record, it held homecourt advantage in the first round.

The Clippers had a 16-point lead late in the third quarter of Game One. Denver tied the score at 87 after an Andre Miller layup with 1:08 left in the fourth quarter. The Clippers scored two after Vladimir Radmanovic was fouled and made free throws with 59.8 seconds left.

Elton Brand blocked Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony and Radmanovic was whistled for an offensive foul on a drive. Anthony missed two different shots that would've tied the game and the Clippers held on for the two-point win.

The Clippers led by as much as 25 points in the first half of Game Two and held on for a 98-87 victory. The Nuggets won the third game Anthony scored 24 points. In the fourth game, seven Clippers reached double figures and Los Angeles won 100-86. The Clippers closed out the series in Game Five with a 101-83 blowout victory.

Los Angeles matched up with the Phoenix Suns in the second round. Brand starred with 40 points, but Phoenix had four players score at least 17 in a 130-123 win. The Clippers used a 19-5 offensive rebounding advantage and a 31-6 edge in second chance points to take Game Two 122-97 victory.

In response to great play from Clippers guard Sam Cassell (25.5 PPG), the Suns had 6-foot-8 forward Shawn Marion primarily guard Cassell instead of the 6-foot-3 Nash. Marion helped limit Cassell to 2-for-10 shooting as the Suns took back homecourt advantage with a 94-91 Suns win in Game Three.

In Game Four, the Clippers led for most of the contest. Cassell hit a three-pointer with 27.2 seconds left to give them a six-point lead. They ended up taking the game 114-107 and tying the series 2-2.

Game Five was one of the best games of the 2006 postseason. Los Angeles trailed by 19 points early on but stormed back. With 39.2 seconds left and the Clippers down by three, Cassell knocked down a corner three to tie the game. Neither team scored again in regulation, forcing free basketball.

Los Angeles took a three-point lead with 3.6 seconds left in overtime after Cassell hit two free throws. Phoenix tied it after Raja Bell hit a corner three over a recently subbed in Ewing with 1.1 seconds left.

The Clippers turned it over on their subsequent inbounds play, and Marion missed a heave at the buzzer. The second overtime saw Marion and Leandro Barbosa scored 11 of Phoenix’s 14 points in the second overtime as the Suns outlasted the Clippers 125-118.

The decision by coach Dunleavy to sub in the rookie Ewing for Bell's three-pointer was heavily criticized after the loss. The team had one foul to give on the play and its original plan was to foul before anyone on Phoenix could get a shot off.

The Clippers took out Cassell, Brand and center Chris Kaman and had five perimeter players on the floor to switch and guard the three-point line. Ewing for his part said he intended to foul but didn't because he didn't want to foul Bell on a shot attempt creating free-throws (via ESPN):

"He caught the ball in the corner and turned and shot. I did the best I could, put pressure on the shooter. It was a good play for them and a bad break for us. It was judgment call. He made a tough shot. We have to live with it."

Brand had 30 points and 12 rebounds to help lead the Clippers to a 118-106 Game Six win and tie the series 3-3. The series finale saw Nash score 29 points and hand out 11 assists to lead Phoenix to a Game Seven 127-107 blowout victory.

Though Ewing is remembered for being on the floor for one of the Clippers' most significant playoff moments, he appeared in just six of the team's 12 games for a total of five minutes. The guard scored two points in the postseason.

In the 2006 offseason, Cassell re-signed with Los Angeles on a two-year, $13 million deal. In the draft, the Clippers filled a need in the frontcourt, adding 6-foot-11 center Paul Davis from Michigan State. A four-year player in college, Davis averaged 17.5 PPG and 9.1 RPG with the Spartans in his senior year.

Ewing played in Summer League for a second consecutive season with the Clippers. In five games, the guard averaged 31.6 MPG, 14.4 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.0 APG and 1.6 SPG.

The 2006-07 season would be a rollercoaster ride for the Clippers. Expected to compete for a playoff spot, Los Angeles began the season 5-1 but soon dropped six of seven to fall to 6-7. A six-game losing streak dropped the team to 10-15 in December and a 7-1 stretch in January got the team to 24-22.

Injuries to point guards Sam Cassell and Shaun Livingston played a large part in the team's struggles all year. After 74 games, Los Angeles was in eighth place in the West with a 37-37 record. A 3-5 stretch in the last five games dropped the Clippers to 40-42. Los Angeles finished two games behind the seventh place Golden State Warriors and eighth place Los Angeles Lakers who both finished 42-40.

Ewing made appearances in 61 games in his second season and put up 2.9 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 1.5 APG and 0.5 SPG in 11.7 MPG. Ewing struggled to fill in at point guard with Cassell and Livingston out with injury as he felt more comfortable as a two-guard. Davis had a small role in his rookie season. The 6-foot-11 forward saw action in 31 games and amassed 1.6 PPG and 1.4 RPG in 5.8 MPG.

In the 2007 offseason, the Clippers waived Ewing. He ended his two-year run in Los Angeles with a stat line of 3.4 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 1.4 APG and 0.5 SPG in 127 games. The former Blue Devil shot 39% from the field, 32% from the three-point line and 78% from the free-throw line in two years. Ewing signed a two-year deal overseas to play with Khimki of the Russian League.

Davis played in Summer League with the Clippers in 2007. In Las Vegas, Davis started all five games, producing 12.6 PPG on 44% shooting and 8.0 RPG in 25.1 MPG.

Los Angeles' hopes for fielding a playoff team for the 2007-08 season were dashed before the start of the season. Brand ruptured his left achilles tendon during a routine offseason workout. The two-time All-Star would miss all but the last eight games of the season.

Los Angeles won its first four games but dropped 23 of the next 29 games. to fall to 10-23. The Clippers started a retooling, agreeing to a buyout arrangement with veteran starter Sam Cassell at midseason. After reaching 19-33, the Clippers went 4-26 over the final 30 games to finish the year 23-59.

In early January of 2008, Davis tore the ACL and lateral meniscus in his right knee during a game against the Dallas Mavericks. The injury required surgery and ended his season abruptly. Davis averaged 2.5 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 0.5 APG and 8.8 MPG in 22 games.

In the 2008 offseason, Los Angeles underwent significant changes. The team was able to sign All-Star point guard Baron Davis, but lost Brand and Maggette to the Philadelphia 76ers and Golden State Warriors respectively.

In response to losing Brand, the Clippers traded for former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Camby in a deal with the Denver Nuggets. The Clippers renounced their rights to Paul Davis, but later signed the big man to a contract.

Los Angeles began the 2008-09 season just 1-9. The team made a significant early-season deal, acquiring power forward Zach Randolph and guard Mardy Collins from the New York Knicks for forward Tim Thomas and guard Cuttino Mobley.

The losing continued as Los Angeles was 8-25 when it waived Davis along with guard Fred Jones in early 2009 to make room for recently acquired center Cheikh Samb. In 27 games, Davis was averaging 4.0 PPG and 2.5 RPG in 11.5 MPG. Over the course of three seasons, Davis appeared in 80 games with the Clippers, posting 2.2 PPG and 2.0 RPG. The big man shot 40% from the field and 74% from the charity stripe.

Melvin Ely on being eager to join the Bobcats (via LA Times):

"This is a great feeling to start all over with a brand-new team. I'm just happy that I can start with a new team and a new coach and a clean slate and finally show people that it wasn't a fluke that I was picked 12th and that I can go in there and help the new team out."

On the strengths in his game (via Bobcats.com):

"I'm a low-post presence, defensively and offensively, and that's something that every team needs. I'm hoping to add along with (Emeka) Okafor and all the other guys that have been there."

Eddie House on arriving in Charlotte (via Bobcats.com):

"I'm just happy to get the opportunity to come to a new team with a new start and a new beginning and try to start something good there. It's also a great opportunity for me to come in and show that I can play this game."

On how he feels he is best used:

"I just want to get on the court and play basketball. I'm a basketball player. It doesn't matter what position I'm at, I feel like I could have a positive effect on the game for my squad. If asked to run the one, I could do that. "I have definitely gotten better over the years. People don't know if I'm a one or a two. My answer since I came to the league is that I'm a basketball player. Once I get out on the court, that's what I do. I play hard."

On whether his jump shot is the best part of his game:

"Yes, I see that as my strong point. I think also the energy I bring to the floor. I energize the team. I get my teammates going and also get the crowd into it at the same time."

Charlotte Bobcats general manager and head coach Bernie Bickerstaff on adding Ely and House (via Bobcats.com):

"Adding these two players complements the make-up of our team very well. We now have six players that are 6-9 or taller for a nice rotation in the center and power forward positions and we have solidified our point guard position, as well."

On Melvin Ely:

"Melvin Ely is someone who commands respect in the low post on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court. He is an old-school type of player who is physically tough. He can conceivably play multiple positions in the frontcourt, at both center and forward, and can attract double-teams in the post."

On Eddie House:

"Eddie House has the ability to be an outside shooting threat and will give us another scorer. Another thing I like about him is his versatility to play some point guard and off-guard."

On what the trade gives Charlotte (via Bobcats.com):

"The trade gives us another guy at 6’10 who was the 12th pick in the draft. The point is that he is a guy who can command respect on the low block. Kind of the old-school game, because I know people will have to double-team him. I think he’ll do a good job with rebounding. We feel comfortable with that. I think he matches up with a lot of the bigs we have and he and Emeka (Okafor) could play together. "In talking to Eddie House, I asked him about the point guard situation, he was telling me 'you know coach, sometimes they want me to play point guard, when I started to play point guard they'd pull me off and have me play the two.' My message to him was 'we just want you to come in and play basketball. Be yourself. That's how you excel.' There are things that we can do offensively when he's in the game that exemplify and are conducive to a good game."

On receiving Ely who was the 12th overall draft pick from 2002:

"Well, I'm just happy we got him. I can't speak for other people, but I'm certainly appreciative. Timing is everything. We were in the right place at the right time. There were some other offers from teams who had an interest in this young man, but we just happened to be in the right place at the right time."

On the deal’s effect on the Clippers salary cap room:

"They're in the Kobe Derby. This deal they tried to consummate at 12:01 a.m., but it didn't happen. But they probably want to make their move on Kobe. We certainly wish them well. They've been nice to us."

Los Angeles Clippers vice president of basketball operations Elgin Baylor on how the trade creates cap flexibility (via Clippers.com):

"We began discussions on this transaction in early July, with the goal of creating salary cap flexibility which would allow us to take advantage of any potential opportunities."

Image Credit:

Melvin Ely via UPI/Nell Redmond

Eddie House via Getty Images/Kent Smith

[kicksaddictny]

Introducing Nike Basketball’s Rookie Class of 2023

Nike’s roster of athletes is unmatched. From the greatest of all time to rising stars who are barrier breakers, we partner with the world’s best athletes with the goal of expanding sport for the next generation. To that end, Nike Basketball is proud to introduce its 2023 NBA Rookie Class. Together, these players represent the wave of the future, bringing the game to new heights. 

Anthony Black, Guard

Team: Orlando Magic

Last season, he was the only player in University of Arkansas history to reach more than 450 points, 180 rebounds and 140 assists in a season. 

He was also the only player in the SEC to reach the top 25 in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals and blocked shots. 

Kobe Brown, Forward

Team: Los Angeles Clippers

In Kobe’s senior year at the University of Missouri, he became the third Division I player in the last 25 seasons to score 30 points in back-to-back games against nationally ranked teams. 

He was the only Division I player in the nation last year to shoot 55 percent from the field and 45 percent from three-point range. 

Bilal Coulibaly, Guard

Team: Washington Wizards

He was quickly promoted to his senior-level French team after averaging 21.9 PPG, 2.6 SPG and 1.2 BPG.

He represents France at the international level.

Keyonte George, Guard

Team: Utah Jazz

His 506 points as a freshman at Baylor University were the second most in school history.

He holds the Baylor record for most 20-point games in program history.

Jordan Hawkins, Guard

Team: New Orleans Pelicans

He’s made the second most three-pointers in a single season in University of Connecticut program history, behind only Ray Allen.

He helped lead UConn to win the 2023 NCAA National Title. 

Dereck Lively II

Team: Dallas Mavericks

A five-star center out of Pennsylvania, he was ranked the No. 1 player overall in the state's class of 2022. ESPN ranked him the No. 1 High School Basketball Player in the class of 2022.

His 82 blocked shots last season were the second most by a Duke University freshman in a single season.

Olivier-Maxence Prosper, Forward

Team: Dallas Mavericks

He was a nationally ranked recruit from the class of 2020, concluding his high school career at the NBA’s Latin American Academy in Mexico City.

During NBA Summer League 2023, he averaged 12.6 PPG and 5.4 RPG at 25.4 MPG.

Brandon Miller, Forward

Team: Charlotte Hornets

At the University of Alabama, he became the first conference player ever to win SEC Player of the Year, SEC Freshman of the Year, and SEC Tournament MVP in the same season.

He led all Division I freshmen in scoring last year.

Amen Thompson, Forward

Team: Houston Rockets

In the 2023 NBA Draft, he was the No. 4 overall pick.

He averaged 16.4 PPG, 5.9 APG and 5.9 RPG during the OTE 2022-23 regular season.

Ausar Thompson, Forward

Team: Detroit Pistons 

A five-star recruit out of high school, he won a state title at Pine Crest High School with his brother Amen in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

In the OTE 2022-23 season, he was named the regular-season MVP and finals MVP, averaging 21.0 PPG, 4.8 APG and 5.2 RPG.

Julian Strawther, Forward

Team: Denver Nuggets

He averaged a double-double in high school at 31.5 PPG and 11.1 RPG.

He represents Puerto Rico at the international level.

Cason Wallace, Guard

Team: Oklahoma City Thunder

In high school, he was awarded two separate Player of the Year honors in the state of Texas.

Last year, at the University of Kentucky, he ranked among the NCAA leaders in assists per game, assist-to-turnover ratio, and steals per game.

Victor Wembanyama, Forward

Team: San Antonio Spurs

After winning the Pro A title with ASVEL of the EuroLeague, he went on to play for the Metropolitans 92 where he earned the league's title for scoring and blocks with an average of 21.6 PPG and 3.0 BPG during the 2022-23 season.

He was the No. 1 overall pick for the NBA 2023 Draft.

[laresearchette]

Tuesday, January 24, 2023 Canadian TV Listings (Times Eastern)

WHERE CAN I FIND THOSE PREMIERES? AMERICAN AUTO (City TV) 7:30pm 9-1-1: LONE STAR (CTV) 8:00pm THE WINCHESTERS (CTV Sci-Fi) I AM JAZZ (TLC Canada) 10:00pm

WHAT IS NOT PREMIERING IN CANADA TONIGHT HOW I MET YOUR FATHER (TBD - Disney + Star)

NEW TO AMAZON PRIME CANADA/CBC GEM/CRAVE TV/DISNEY + STAR/NETFLIX CANADA:

CRAVE TV AT FIRST LIGHT

NETFLIX CANADA LITTLE ANGEL: VOLUME 2

NHL HOCKEY (SN1) 7:00pm: Islanders vs. Sens (SN) 7:00pm: Rangers vs. Leafs (TSN2) 7:00pm: Bruins vs. Habs (TSN3) 8:00pm: Jets vs. Predators (SN360/SNWest) 9:00pm: Blue Jackets vs. Oilers (SNPacific) 10:00pm: Canucks vs. Kraken

AUSTRALIAN OPEN TENNIS (TSN/TSN4) 7:00pm: Quarterfinals (TSN) 9:00pm: Quarterfinals

NBA BASKETBALL (TSN5) 7:30pm: Celtics vs. Heat (SN Now) 8:00pm: Nuggets vs. Bucks (SN1) 10:00pm: Raptors vs. Kings (TSN5) 10:00pm: Clippers vs. Lakers

CHUCK AND THE FIRST PEOPLES' KITCHEN (APTN) 7:30pm: Nipissing, ON.: Wild White Rabbit Snaring: Chuck travels to Nipissing, where he learns how to build snares and hunt wild rabbit; during his visit, he meets Lana Chevrier, an Anishinaabe woman with a passion for cooking; Lana runs a local catering business that specializes in small game meats.

22 MINUTES (CBC) 8:00pm: The cost of living continues to rise, and the number of recommended drinks is down.

HUDSON & REX (City TV) 8:00pm:  After a popular physiotherapist is murdered, the team must investigate the victims of his alleged sexual assaults in order to track down the killer before they strike again.

MARY MAKES IT EASY (CTV Life) 8:00pm: Mary's veg versions of meaty classics can satisfy even the biggest meathead, with burgers, nugs and even bacon.

SON OF A CRITCH (CBC) 8:30pm: Desperate to seem more mature, Mark heads off school grounds for lunch but things take a turn when the Fox boys offer Mark his first beer. Meanwhile, Mary takes a job selling Avon products.

WORKIN' MOMS (CBC) 9:00pm:  In an act of desperation, Jenny brings Zoe to visit a daunting figure from her past. Meanwhile, Kate tries to revive her sex life and makes a pact with an amped-up Anne.

WONG & WINCHESTER (City TV) 9:00pm: A case involving a stolen painting leads Marissa and Sarah to discover some dark and very dangerous secrets about the artwork's origins.

THE HILLSIDE STRANGLER: DEVIL IN DISGUISE (Lifetime Canada) 9:00pm (SERIES PREMIERE):  In 1977, the neighborhoods of Los Angeles were turned upside down by a series of gruesome strangulation murders, leaving the police to face mounting public pressure to identify the faceless killer and protect the city's women.

CATASTROPHE (CBC) 9:30pm:  Old tensions resurface at Fergal’s 40th, but Sharon has other things on her mind - like her Mum’s new male-model boyfriend.

MEAN MUMS (APTN) 9:30pm: The moms are planning a bake sale to raise money for school camp; after an accidental oversight by Jess, there's not a lot of baked goods to sell and the volunteers get creative; Ryan reads a story to his class about the moms' disorganized bake sale.

THE GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE (Makeful) 10:00pm: Lingerie & Night Wear Week

THE TALENTED MR. ROSENBERG (documentary) 11:00pm:  The story of Canadian entrepreneur and convicted con man Albert Rosenberg, also known as the Yorkville Swindler.

[news4usonline]

Kawhi Leonard's looming return

Until now, there was minimal certainty about when Kawhi Leonard would take the court this season. All that was known was that he planned on playing for the Los Angeles Clippers at some point this year. Over the past few weeks, some clarity and progression have finally occurred. Tyronn Lue typically fields questions on Leonard's status every Monday; until recently, he did not have much to report. Last week came with a major update that the superstar forward had begun practicing in a limited fashion—no contact, but still a significant step in the right direction. This week, the update was that Leonard has continued to progress, and there is a chance he will travel with the team on the road for the first time this season.

June 6, 2021-Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) brings the hammer down with a thunderous dunk aginst the Dallas Mavericks in Game 7. The Clippers defeated the Mavericks, 126-111. Photo credit: Mark Hammond/News4usonline "We will see going forward after tonight and tomorrow to get a chance to reassess everything. He has progressed very well," said Lue prior to their game against Utah. "There is a chance he might travel with us, but that has not been determined yet." Leonard traveled with the team for training camp in Hawaii, but before that, the last time he flew with the team was during the first round of the 2024 playoffs when the Clippers faced the Dallas Mavericks. If he attends the upcoming road trip, there is no guarantee he will play, but it would signify that he is at least close. The two-time Finals MVP made a name for himself in San Antonio and Toronto by winning championships. In Los Angeles, he has only participated in 28 out of a potential 43 playoff games for the Clippers. Health has always been and still is the number one concern since Leonard came to the team in 2019. "It is great, he is Kawhi Leonard," said James Harden on having him back at practice. "He is inching his way back toward the court, and we want him to take his time. Whenever he is ready, we will be ready for him." Leonard has been fantastic as a Clipper when he manages to stay on the court. In four seasons, he has averaged 24.8 points while shooting over fifty percent from the field and over forty percent from three. Just last year, in 68 regular season games, he posted career-highs in shooting percentage and minutes per game while earning an All-NBA 2nd Team selection.

Kawhi Leonard (2) goes to the basket against the Utah Jazz on Friday, Feb. 19, 2021. The Clippers defeated the Jazz, 116-112. Photo credit: Mark Hammond/News4usonline If last season is any indication, Leonard is still one of the top ten to fifteen players in the NBA when healthy. The Clippers have also been without several other key players for stretches early on, including Norman Powell, Derrick Jones Jr., and Terance Mann. Still, LA has found a way to stay afloat in an always-tough Western Conference. Powell (23.5) and Ivica Zubac (14.9) are both averaging career-highs, while Harden is doing his best Houston Rockets impression of himself. "With guys being in and out, it is tough. We have to have the same mentality every single night," said Ty Lue. "Playing the right way and building the right habits. Once we get everyone back healthy, if you continue to build the right habits, then they will hit the ground running once they get back." If and when Leonard returns, this Clippers team that prides itself on the defensive side of the ball can be extremely dangerous in a seven-game series. For the moment, they are being overlooked, but if they get lucky in terms of health, they are capable of making a deep run in the playoffs. Read the full article

[cavenewstimes]

Clippers' James Harden passes Ray Allen for second all-time on NBA 3-pointers list, trails only Stephen Curry

Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden passed Hall of Fame sharpshooter Ray Allen for second all-time in NBA career 3-pointers made with a deep ball from the wing during Sunday’s win over the Utah Jazz.  The historic shot gave Harden 2,974 career 3s, and he accomplished the feat in 215 fewer games than Allen, largely thanks to a tremendous discrepancy in volume. Golden State Warriors guard…

[lboogie1906]

Kenneth Anderson (October 9, 1970) is a retired basketball player. After a college career at Georgia Tech, he played point guard (1991-2006) mostly in the NBA.

He was born in Queens. As a 16-year-old high school sophomore, the LeFrak City, Queens native who attended academic and athletic powerhouse, Archbishop Molloy High School, was considered one of the best basketball prospects in America. Collegiate recruiters began scouting him in sixth grade and he was on the front page of the New York City sports section when he was 14.

He was selected by the New Jersey Nets with the second pick in the 1991 NBA draft. He was the youngest player in the league in his rookie year and averaged seven points, two rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. In his second season, he nearly doubled his point, rebound, and assist averages. In his third season, he averaged 18.8 points and 9.6 assists. He was traded to the Charlotte Hornets in 1996, along with Gerald Glass, in a deal for Khalid Reeves and Kendall Gill.

He signed with the Portland Trail Blazers. In 1998, the Trail Blazers traded him, along with Alvin Williams, Gary Trent, and two 1998 first-round picks to the Toronto Raptors for Damon Stoudamire, Carlos Rogers, Walt Williams, and a 1998 second-round pick, but he refused to report to the team because he did not want to play in Canada, which prompted the Raptors to trade him to the Boston Celtics, along with Žan Tabak and Popeye Jones for John Thomas, Chauncey Billups, and Dee Brown. He spent a considerable amount of time as a Celtic before he was sent to the Seattle SuperSonics, along with Vitaly Potapenko and Joseph Forte, and in a package for Vin Baker and Shammond Williams. At the 2003 NBA trade deadline, he was dealt back to the Hornets, who had since relocated to New Orleans, for Elden Campbell. He then played as a reserve point guard for the Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks, and Los Angeles Clippers.

He married Tami Roman (1994-04), he married Tamika Lockhart (2002-04), and Natasha Anderson (2007). He is the father of seven children, including hip-hop artist Jazz Anderson. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[sparklymentalitypanda]

Game Winning Shots NBA Playoff Edition

Welcome to our latest video, "Game-Winning Shots: NBA Playoff Edition," where we explain the most thrilling and unforgettable moments in NBA playoff history. Buzzer beaters are rare and spectacular events that leave fans on the edge of their seats and create lasting memories. In this video, we'll take you on an exciting journey through ten of the most iconic game-winning shots that have defined the NBA playoff series and etched players' names into basketball lore.

LeBron James vs. Chicago Bulls (2011, Game 5): Witness LeBron James' incredible step-back jump shot that broke a tie with just 29.5 seconds left, propelling the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals. Although not a perfect finish, this shot demonstrated LeBron's clutch performance under intense pressure

Kawhi Leonard vs. Philadelphia 76ers (2019, Game 7): Relive Kawhi Leonard's legendary buzzer-beater that won the series for the Toronto Raptors. This historic shot not only clinched the series but also paved the way for the Raptors' first-ever NBA Championship, ending the Golden State Warriors' dominance.

Damian Lillard vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (2019, Game 5): Experience Damian Lillard's poetic game-winning shot that sealed a 50-point performance and ended the era for the Thunder's star player, Russell Westbrook. This moment, despite being criticized by Paul George, remains a triumph for Blazers fans.

John Stockton vs. Houston Rockets (1997, Game 6): Step back in time to John Stockton's dramatic game-winner, aided by Karl Malone’s controversial screen, which left Rockets fans heartbroken and showcased Stockton’s skill and determination.

Damian Lillard vs. Houston Rockets (2014, Game 6): Feel the tension as Damian Lillard’s clutch buzzer-beater prevented a Game 7, advancing the Trail Blazers and cementing his reputation for delivering in critical moments.

Kobe Bryant and Joe Johnson (2009, Game 1): Enjoy a double feature of clutch performances by Kobe Bryant and Joe Johnson. Kobe’s memorable three-pointer against the Miami Heat and Joe Johnson's series-winning floater for the Utah Jazz exemplify their legendary status in making game-winning shots.

Jason Tatum vs. Brooklyn Nets (2022, Game 1): Relive the excitement of Jason Tatum's buzzer-beating layup that secured a victory for the Celtics and set the tone for their series sweep against the Nets, highlighting Tatum's multifaceted contribution.

Anthony Davis vs. Denver Nuggets (2020, Game 2): Celebrate Anthony Davis’s "Mamba shot" tribute to Kobe Bryant, a game-winning buzzer-beater that boosted the Lakers' momentum towards their 17th NBA Championship.

OG Anunoby vs. Boston Celtics (2020, Game 3): Witness OG Anunoby’s incredible three-pointer with just 0.5 seconds left, a crucial shot that kept the Raptors' playoff hopes alive, even though they ultimately lost the series to the Celtics.

Luka Dončić vs. Los Angeles Clippers (2020, Game 4): Marvel at Luka Dončić’s historic game, where he achieved a triple-double and nailed a stunning three-pointer in overtime, demonstrating his ability to perform under immense pressure.

These unforgettable moments are a testament to the players' skills, determination, and the high-stakes drama of the NBA playoffs. Each shot not only defined games but also shaped careers and legacies. Don't miss out on more thrilling basketball content; like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more NBA playoff action and unforgettable moments.

[heavenforblog1111]

Alright, so Kawhi Leonard is an intriguing presence in the NBA. He is a 2 time NBA champion and 2x Finals MVP. Yet, for some reason he doesn't draw much attention despite being a superstar. So, Can Kawhi Leonard win another title? 3 years back he won the championship and the Finals MVP with the Toronto Raptors and left the franchise to play for LA Clippers, LA being his hometown. Currently, he is recovering from an ACL tear and we expect him to come back this season after he missed the last season. Kawhi and the Clippers lost to the Denver Nuggets blowing a 3-1 lead in the playoffs in 2020. In 2021 playoffs, Kawhi suffered the ACL injury playing against the Utah Jazz. The Clippers were able to win the rest of the series without him and were eliminated by the Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference Finals. Kawhi is not the type of player to pile up stats. One may look at his stats and dismiss him if they hadn't seen him play before. Kawhi is the type of player who does what is required to win. He will get your team to win when you need it the most. Of course, there are certain exceptions where in he has not performed as expected for example his performance in 2020 playoffs when the Clippers lost despite having a 3-1 lead. Can Kawhi Leonard win another title? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHOConM6RQE Kawhi's style of play has derived comparisons from Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. Kawhi has several skills in his arsenal. He is a defensive monster while also possessing an offensive skillset. His foot work, ability to create his own shots, fade-away jumpers etc are amazing. He has a great legacy too. He is 2-time NBA champion and 2x Finals MVP. He has yet to win a regular season MVP though I believe that is not really his goal. His 2019 run was notably the greatest run in his career(at least till now) when he defeated the Golden State Warriors. Who would've thought that the Golden State dynasty would come an end to like that. Kevin Durant suffered an Achilles tear in the only game that he played against the Raptors. Meanwhile, it was in the same series that Klay Thompson tore his ACL too. Kawhi has one of the most interesting stories in the NBA. He was part of the San Antonio Spurs squad back in 2017. They were facing the Golden State Warriors(fully stacked at that time) and were winning the Game 1 against them. Kawhi, being the star of his team ended up with an injury and was taken out of the game. San Antonio lost the game and the series. Meanwhile Kawhi was out for the series, and he only played 9 games the next season. Later on, he came back to avenge is loss against Golden State and won the 2019 championship with the Toronto Raptors. Do I think Kawhi can win a championship again? I think that is an interesting question. I really do hope he wins another title. He is 31 years of age as of now. He has great teammates in Paul George and John Wall. I think it will be interesting if they contend for a title. Knowing Kawhi, he is definitely not done yet. I know he plays hard to win and he is definitely serious about winning more titles in his career. I hope he is back healthy and I think it will be interesting to see the Clippers contend for a title. Let me know your opinion in the comment section. Do you guys think the Clippers can win a title?

[therealcrimediary]

The Cleveland Cavaliers bounced back from an embarrassing loss to the Miami Heat by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 115-92. Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen led the way for the Cavs, with Mobley scoring 17 points and recording a career-high eight assists. The win ended a three-game losing streak for Cleveland, who had been struggling with injuries and falling in the Eastern Conference standings. The Brooklyn Nets snapped a six-game losing streak with a 96-88 victory over the short-handed Toronto Raptors. Dennis Schroder scored 19 points against his former team, while Trendon Watford added 19 points. The Raptors have now lost 11 straight games and are winless since March 3. The New York Knicks cruised to a 124-99 win over the Detroit Pistons behind a franchise-record 11 three-pointers from Donte DiVincenzo, who scored a career-high 40 points. Jalen Brunson added 28 points for the Knicks, who won for the sixth time in seven games and remained in contention for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Atlanta Hawks staged a stunning comeback from a 30-point deficit to beat the NBA-leading Boston Celtics 120-118. De'Andre Hunter hit a game-winning three-pointer with 9.2 seconds left to secure the victory for the Hawks, who were missing several key players due to injuries. The Celtics, despite 37 points from Jayson Tatum, saw their nine-game winning streak come to an end. In other games, the San Antonio Spurs edged out the Phoenix Suns 104-102 behind a strong performance from Jeremy Sochan, while the Houston Rockets defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 110-92 with Jalen Green scoring 27 points. The Washington Wizards defeated the Chicago Bulls 107-105, and the Dallas Mavericks beat the Utah Jazz 115-105 with Luka Doncic recording a triple-double. Additionally, the Denver Nuggets defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 128-103, the Sacramento Kings beat the Philadelphia 76ers 108-96, and the Indiana Pacers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 133-116.

[diarioelpepazo]

La NBA le debe una disculpa por ningunearle. Firma su 54 doble-doble seguido, la mejor marca de la historia en 48 años desde que ABA y NBA se unieron en 1976. Quinto jugador de siempre que logra al menos 25 triples-dobles en una temporada... ¡pero no fue convocado para el All Star! JOSÉ LUIS MARTÍNEZ La NBA, la mejor competición de baloncesto del mundo, ha echado uno de los mayores borrones que se le recuerdan en su historia reciente, una mancha que se hace más y más grande a cada jornada que pasa. En una competición donde las estadísticas son casi una religión, su ninguneo a Domantas Sabonis, ala-pivot de los Sacramento Kings, se ha convertido en una de las mayores injusticias de su historia reciente. El hijo del legendario Arvydas Sabonis escribió una página más, y no una cualquiera, en los libros de historia de la Liga al firmar en el triunfo por 108-96 de los Kings ante los Sixers 11 puntos (3/5 t2 y 5/8 tl), 13 rebotes, 10 asistencias y un tapón, números habituales en él esta temporada pero especiales en un día así porque le permiten sumar 54 dobles-dobles seguidos, batiendo la marca de otra leyenda como Kevin Love, que le felicitó en sus redes sociales, la mejor racha de la historia en 48 años, desde que la ABA y la NBA se fusionaron en 1976. Antes de esa fusión quedaron para la posteridad los 227 dobles-dobles seguidos de Wilt Chamberlain, el hombre récord de la NBA por antonomasia jugando con niños entonces. Eran otros tiempos. Domantas, que suma esta campaña 67 dobles-dobles, firmó además ante los Sixers su vigésimo quinto triple-doble de la temporada, convirtiéndose en el quinto jugador de la historia que alcanza esa cifra. Los otros cuatro fueron Oscar Robertson, Wilt Chamberlain, Russell Westbrook y Nikola Jokic. Palabras mayores. Huelga decir que es el líder de la temporada en dobles-dobles y triples-dobles. Tercer pívot de la historia con al menos 25 triples-dobles Además, es el tercer pívot de la historia que logra acumular al menos 25 triples-dobles en una temporada. Los otros dos fueron el mito Wilt Chamberlain, que fue MVP de la NBA, y Nikola Jokic, dos veces MVP de la Liga. Pero ni siquiera esos monstruosos registros le sirvieron para estar hace apenas un mes en el All Star Game. Sabonis lo seguiría por televisión desde su casa. O no, porque lo suyo no es el circo y sí dejarse la piel en cada partido por cada balón, por cada rebote y en cada defensa, contribuyendo en todas las facetas del juego de unos Kings que le adoran como su nuevo rey. EFE Sí, la NBA está tardando en pedirle disculpas por haberle dejado fuera de la cita de las estrellas porque él ha demostrado noche tras noche que lo es. Sus estadísticas de esta temporada pasarán a la posteridad , y el ninguneo que ha sufrido por parte de la NBA, también. Resultados de la jornada Cleveland Cavaliers - Charlotte Hornets 115-92 Atlanta Hawks - Boston Celtics 120-118 New York Knicks - Detroit Pistons 124-99 Toronto Raptors - Brooklyn Nets 88-96 Chicago Bulls - Washington Wizards 105-107 Houston Rockets - Portland Trail Blazers 110-92 San Antonio Spurs - Phoenix Suns 104-102 Denver Nuggets - Memphis Grizzlies 128-103 Utah Jazz - Dallas Mavericks 105-115 Sacramento Kings - Philadelphia 76ers 108-96 Los Angeles Clippers - Indiana Pacers 114-131 Para recibir en tu celular esta y otras informaciones, únete a nuestras redes sociales, síguenos en Instagram, Twitter y Facebook como @DiarioElPepazo El Pepazo/Marca

[college-girl199328]

Nikola Jokic spoiled the Milwaukee coaching debut of Doc Rivers by recording his 14th triple-double of the season as the Denver Nuggets surged over the Bucks 113-107 on Monday night. Jokic finished with 25 points, 16 rebounds, and 12 assists, while Jamal Murray added 35 points in helping Denver gain separation during an 8-0 run late in the game.

Rivers was lured out of his role as an analyst to take over for first-year Bucks coach Adrian Griffin, who was fired after 43 games and a 30-13 record. He watched his new squad squander an early 13-point lead, fall behind by as many as nine, and surge back before Aaron Gordon ended the comeback by blocking Damian Lillard's layup with 24.7 seconds remaining. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 29 points and 12 rebounds for the Bucks, who began a five-game trip.

Ben Simmons had 10 points, 11 assists, and eight rebounds in his return from a 38-game absence, Mikal Bridges added 33 points and Brooklyn routed Utah. Simmons hadn’t played since Nov. 6 because of a pinched nerve in his lower back. The No. 1 pick in the 2016 draft played 18 minutes off the bench, made all five shots, and likely would have had a triple-double if not for a minutes restriction.

Cam Thomas added 25 points for the Nets, who rolled to their highest point total of the season, had 41 assists on their 54 field goals and made 21 3-pointers. They have won two straight after losing seven of their previous eight. Keyonte George scored 21 points for the Jazz. They were trying to match an NBA record by scoring 120 points for the 12th straight game but didn’t help their chances by committing 17 turnovers that the Nets turned into 27 points.

Anthony Edwards scored 27 points and Minnesota beat Oklahoma City to take sole possession of the top spot in the Western Conference. Karl-Anthony Towns had 21 points and 10 rebounds, and Rudy Gobert added 12 points and 17 rebounds for Minnesota, which had lost three of five.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 37 points and Jalen Williams added 20 for the Thunder, who lost their second straight after a five-game win streak. The teams split their four meetings this season.

There were 11 lead changes in the fourth quarter. A two-handed dunk by Edwards in traffic put the Timberwolves up 101-97, and Minnesota led by at least four the rest of the way.

Eric Gordon scored 23 points, Devin Booker had 22 and Phoenix handed Miami its seventh consecutive loss. Kevin Durant scored 20 and Bradley Beal had 19 for the Suns, who are 8-2 in their last 10 games and swept the Heat for just the second time in the last 17 seasons.

Jimmy Butler scored 26 points for Miami, which was 24-16 and fifth in the Eastern Conference just two weeks ago. The Heat are now 24-23 and three games behind Indiana in the loss column for the sixth and final guaranteed playoff berth. It’s the first seven-game skid for Heat coach Erik Spoelstra.

Donovan Mitchell had 28 points and 12 assists and Jarrett Allen extended his double-double streak to 15 straight games, leading Cleveland past Los Angeles. Allen finished with 20 points and 17 rebounds. Isaac Okoro added 17 points — all in the first half — as the Cavs held off a late Clippers comeback and ended L.A.‘s winning streak at five. Cleveland is 10-1 since Jan. 3.

Kawhi Leonard scored 30 points and Norman Powell 18 for the Clippers, who got within four in the final two minutes but fell to 2-1 on a season-long seven-game trip.

Jalen Brunson scored 32 points, Donte DiVincenzo added 28 and New York kept rolling without the injured Julius Randle, beating Charlotte for its seventh straight victory. Josh Hart chipped in with 12 rebounds, eight points, and seven assists for the Knicks, who entered with the fourth-best record in the Eastern Conference.

Brandon Miller scored 29 points and Miles Bridges had 21 points and 10 rebounds as the Hornets fell to 0-4 since trading Terry Rozier to Miami for Kyle Lowry and a first-round draft pick. Lowry isn't expected to play for Charlotte.

Jayson Tatum scored 12 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter and Boston rallied past New Orleans. The victory snapped a two-game skid at home for Boston, which started the season 20-0 at TD Garden.

Jaylen Brown added 22 points and 11 rebounds. Jrue Holiday had 20 points and Derrick White finished with 17. The Pelicans led by 17 in the first half but were outscored 68-52 over the final two quarters to drop their third straight game. Brandon Ingram led New Orleans with 28 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Zion Williamson finished with 26 points.

Domantas Sabonis had a career-high 26 rebounds along with 20 points, De’Aaron Fox scored 23 points and Sacramento rallied past Memphis. Sabonis finished 10 of 11 from the field and had 16 rebounds in the first half, a Kings record for rebounds in a half since the franchise moved to Sacramento in 1985. His previous career best was 25 rebounds for Indiana on Nov. 29, 2021, against Minnesota, and he surpassed it with 27.5 seconds left — part of a stout defensive performance by the Kings to close out the game.

Sacramento held Memphis scoreless over the final three minutes. Kevin Huerter added 17 points for the Kings, who won their fourth straight. Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 22 points and Santi Aldama scored 16 on 5-of-14 shooting.

Luka Doncic had 45 points and 15 assists and Tim Hardaway Jr. added 36 points as Dallas beat Orlando. The duo accounted for 54 of Dallas’ 70 points in the second half, including 27 of the team's 35 in the fourth quarter.

Dereck Lively II had 20 points and 11 rebounds, and Jalen Hardy scored 18 of his season-high 20 points in the first half for the Mavericks. Paolo Banchero scored 36 points to lead the Magic.

Jalen Green scored 34 points and Alperen Sengun added 31 as Houston beat Los Angeles. LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and D’Angelo Russell scored 23 points apiece for the Lakers, who had won two in a row, capped by a 145-144 double-overtime victory over Golden State on Saturday.

Cam Whitmore had 20 points off the bench for Houston, and Jabari Smith Jr. had 18 points and nine rebounds in his return after missing four games with a sprained left ankle. Green and Sengun also had 12 rebounds and seven assists each for the Rockets.

Jerami Grant scored 27 points and Portland took advantage of Joel Embiid’s absence to rout Philadelphia. Malcolm Brogdon added 24 points and nine assists for the Trail Blazers, who lost four of their previous five games. Rookie guard Scoot Henderson scored 22.

Kelly Oubre Jr. had 25 points for the 76ers, who lost their third straight as Embiid watched from the bench with a sore left knee. Philadelphia was also without Tyrese Maxey (sprained left ankle). Embiid missed his second consecutive game. The reigning NBA MVP is averaging 36 points and 11.4 rebounds per game.

Kyle Kuzma had 18 points and 11 rebounds, Daniel Gafford added 16 points and 13 boards, and Washington rallied past San Antonio to win consecutive games for the first time this season. The Wizards improved to 2-1 since coach Wes Unseld Jr. was moved to the front office and replaced on an interim basis by Brian Keefe.

Devin Vassell scored 24 points and Victor Wembanyama had 22 points and 11 rebounds for the Spurs, who were seeking their first three-game winning streak of the season. The Wizards outscored the Spurs 31-20 in the fourth quarter.

[mangoposts]

what game were u at in that dump

clippers vs utah jazz in seattle about two three months ago