#game winning shot michael jordan

[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.

[whirlpool-blogs]

The NHL can thank women’s hockey for molding its top prospect into Barry Sanders on skates

June 19, 2019

His former coach calls it a “force field.” When Jack Hughes skates with the puck, the potential top pick in this week’s NHL draft has a way of darting in and out, feinting side to side to keep defenders just out of stick’s reach, as if they’re blocked by some imaginary bubble.

“If fans remember Barry Sanders,” says John Wroblewski, coach of the U.S. National Team Development Program, “he could move laterally, and then he’s at full speed again. Or in basketball, the way Michael Jordan could get guys to stop on a dime. The quickness and slashing and deception — Jack is truly turning on the ice as well as anyone I’ve ever seen.”

This ability to shift and shoot at full speed is part of what has made the hockey world anticipate Hughes’s draft-night moment for years. The 5-foot-10, 18-year-old forward seems destined to be a cornerstone for the New Jersey Devils or New York Rangers, depending on whether he goes first or second when the draft begins Friday, but either way he will be front and center in a major media market. Hughes is hockey’s Zion Williamson, with confidence to match.

“I don’t think I’ve ever felt overwhelmed on an ice rink,” he says.

So then the question for Hughes is: Who taught you to skate?

His answer is as quick as his wrist shot: “It was my mom.”

Hughes has a first-round draft pick in older brother Quinn (now with Vancouver), a potential NHLer in little brother Luke and a title-winning coach in father Jim, so his story is truly a family affair. But his mom’s influence is central to the tale.

Ellen Hughes played with the U.S. women’s national hockey team in the early 1990s, and she played soccer against some of the members of the 1999 World Cup champions. (She once roomed with Brandi Chastain at a youth camp.) Jack’s success is as much of a tribute to his mother as to anyone in the men’s game. He is hardly the first hockey star to be influenced by a decorated mom — Alex Ovechkin’s mother, for example, is a two-time gold medalist in basketball — but Hughes is a men’s player who has benefited from the Title IX generation. In that sense, he is part of an emerging chapter in American sports.

Jack was born in Orlando in May 2001, and 10 days later Ellen was on a plane to Oklahoma to work as a reporter for ESPN at the Women’s College World Series. Broadcasting was the capstone to a fabled athletic career that earned her a spot in the University of New Hampshire Hall of Fame and took her to the sidelines to report on the U.S. team during its 1999 Women’s World Cup run to the Rose Bowl. She was pregnant with Quinn at the time.

Jim Hughes won an International Hockey League championship as an assistant with the Orlando Solar Bears — 12 days after Jack was born — and the family relocated as Jim got coaching gigs in Boston and then Ontario when he was hired by the American Hockey League’s Toronto Marlies. Ellen scaled back on broadcasting with three little boys in the house. She loved parenting but never stopped loving sports. That led to Mommy and Me skating days in Massachusetts. Childhood photos and videos show Quinn, Jack and Luke in NHL jerseys and dressing rooms, but the boys also followed the women’s game.

“My kids have grown up watching that,” Ellen says. “They’ve watched the women as much as the men.”

There was never a grand plan to create a family of hockey stars. Jim and Ellen were hopeful of landing college scholarships and nothing more. They kept the game fun and light, encouraging hard work but not drudgery. Ellen was once pulled aside by Quinn’s grade school teacher, who told her that her oldest boy was often looking out the window at his mom skating with little Jack at lunchtime.

But genetics and the perfect hockey environment — including a childhood in ice rink-heavy Ontario — conspired to make Jack both heady and speedy.

“Quinn was a worker, very competitive,” Jim says. “Jack was . . . well, you could see there was something else going on.”

Jim remembers when Jack was put out onto the rink with some older kids, at defense, and he promptly took the puck and wove in and out of larger players as if they were orange cones. It was an early glimpse of the force field. Jack was 5 years old.

As the boys grew into their teens, Ellen became an uber-planner for games and practices. But she was far more than a driver of minivans and provider of Gatorade, especially when Jim was on the road. She was a hockey resource.

“They could ask, ‘What do you think of this?’ ” Ellen says. “They would want my opinion. Or, ‘Come watch the game with me.’ Or they’d throw me in net. That to them is normal; they don’t know differently.”

Ellen insists that Jim had the primary role in the boys’ development, but Jim insists Ellen’s hockey knowledge “meant everything.”

“She would tell the boys the truth,” he says. “She could talk to the kids. She knew what to say and what not to say. She could connect.”

This may be avant-garde in a historical sense but not to the Hughes boys. Quinn had a girl on his team as a youth player. NBD, as the kids say. “Women’s hockey is pretty cool, too,” Jack says. “Hockey is hockey.”

The family eventually moved to Michigan (where Quinn went to college), and Hughes obliterated the points record for the national team’s development program. Last month he had three assists in seven games with Team USA at the world championships even though he only turned 18 in late May and was facing NHL-caliber opponents.

“That’s kind of uncharted water,” Wroblewski says. “That’s a man’s tournament.”

Hughes’s precision is to the point where he has been known to attempt to shoot the puck off the goalie’s mask and into the net. He says to expect some of the unexpected at the next level.

“You could see a lot of things,” he laughs.

That includes something very rare: a first overall NHL pick born in the United States. Hughes would be only the eighth player to earn that honor. And he is not shy about admitting it’s “really important to him” to go No. 1 to the Devils (even though he’s also happy to land with the Rangers at No. 2).

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“You dream of going first overall,” he says. “You don’t dream of going later than that.”

No members of the Hughes family assign any special status to what they have done. “We’re just another American hockey family,” Jim insists. “That’s all we are. There have been pioneers before us. We are just another American hockey family.”

Yes and no. Having two children as star athletes could happen more often in the United States.

“Fathers are still more likely to socialize boys into sport than mothers,” says Cheryl Cooky, an associate professor of gender studies at Purdue. “But that’s shifting.”

“Shifting” is an apt word to describe Hughes and what he will bring to the NHL.

“He has really cut a path for himself,” Wroblewski says. “There’s an entire generation trying to grow up and play like Jack Hughes. He’s that unique.”

[elise-51-blog]

"Run to Daylight" WIP snippet

“Why do you love sports so much?”

“‘Cos I’m a dumb jock,” Guy laughs, bunting the question away. “Plus there’s beer. And it’s easier than readin’ books and shit.”

“Shut up,” Kyle laughs, shakes his head.

It’s about dinnertime, and he wonders what he has in the fridge or if Kyle might want to get something in a bit except he’s probably not hungry after all the beer and hotdogs. 

“I dunno. I guess it’s just. When everything else in my life was shit, sports seemed like the real thing. Like the only real thing in a world of bullshit.”

Kyle hums. “It’s weird, I mean. I always thought the opposite, to be honest. Everyone cared so much about the football team, or how the basketball team was doing, and just seemed like a distraction from…from actual life. From more important things.”

Guy’s heard this spiel a million times. Mostly from chicks.

Kyle clears his throat. “I mean I--I’m not saying I’m right. It just seemed like everyone always acted like winning on Friday night was like, it’d be the end of the world if the guys lost. But I mean…I didn’t get it. It’s just--it’s literally just a game.”

“And paintin’ pictures, what’s that?” Guy almost tries not to sound too dickish.

Kyle sighs, rolls his eyes, looks away. Oh, but there’s an edge there. Something old. “I don’t think you’d understand what…what that gave me. Art. What it still gives me. It’s making something…something meaningful out of,” Kyle gestures in the air. “Out of what was meaningless.”

Guy knows if this was a movie, he’d be the asshole. Well this ain’t a fuckin’ movie.

“And the football team, just a bunch of morons tossin’ a ball back and forth?”

“That’s not what I said!”

“It’s what you meant.”

“No it’s not--”

“Listen, you say it’s only a game. And you’re right but you’re wrong too.”

There’s a long pause. They’ve never really dug into this truth between them. The gulf of difference. The dumb jock and the sensitive artist thing. Kyle tilts his head at Guy, giving him his full attention. “So tell me.”

“You can’t just put it down on a--on like a postcard. It’s…you gotta see it, right?”

“Sure. Like coming to this game? Green grass and red dirt and, and all that.” 

Guy shakes his head, it’s not what he means, he hates trying to say what he means. 

“It’s more like…it’s Michael Jordan’s jump shot.”

Kyle stares back blankly.

“David Beckham’s corner kick. Joe Montana and Jerry Rice on a Sunday. And it’s--it’s Bob Gibson 1.12 ERA and refusing to shake Joe Torre’s hand ‘cos it’s war and not a picnic. It’s Zizu’s head and Materazzi’s big mouth. It’s Curt Schilling’s bloody sock. It’s Derek Redmond limping to the finish line and Bronko Nagurski crawling to the end zone. It’s a routine ground ball rolling under Bill Buckner’s glove and Steven Gerrard slippin’ on the grass. It’s Barry Bonds’s hat size and Pete Rose’s bookie.” 

Guy doesn’t know how else to say it. It’s just all of it. It’s life but boiled down to the stuff you need. Forget tax returns and the DMV. Just good guys and bad guys. Pure love, pure hatred. Grief, agony, pain you wouldn’t believe. Outrageous joy. Selfishness, sacrifice. Blood, sweat, tears. War. Love to last a lifetime. 

“It’s everything. All of it. It’s all there. On a pitch, or a diamond, or a gridiron. Just…everything. Waitin’ on a whistle.”

“Wow.”

“Fuck off.”

“No, really!” Kyle laughs, clasping Guy’s forearm. “I mean I don’t know who any of those people are--”

“You fucking know David Beckham--”

Kyle laughs, looking away with his eyebrows raised, his dimples deep, his cheeks a little pinker. He looks so good in the ballpark lights, they should wash him out, but they can’t. “Yeah, I know David Beckham.”

[principiumindividuationis777]

"Of all the players who ever played the game of basketball, Bill Russell is the first player I would pick to start a team."- Bill Bradley

"In my estimation, the guy that has to be there is Bill Russell. He won eleven championships as a player. I think that's the idea of what excellence is when you win championships."- Phil Jackson

"I picked him [Bill Russell] as the number one center of all time, as far as I'm concerned, because he was a complete, complete basketball player. I'm gonna pick him over me, because he also helped his team to win a lot more than maybe I could have helped my team to win. Sometimes the mere power of you makes you more individualistic. I have said this before: Wilt Chamberlain on the Boston Celtics might not have been the same, because I'd have taken away from Bob Cousy, from Tom Heinsohn, because I was a scorer too, and then all the sudden they'd have to pass the ball to me, and that would take something away from them, so sometimes, less is better."- Wilt Chamberlain

"When I was a rookie, there were 80 jobs in professional basketball, so a lot of good players didn't make that. I said [to Michael Jordan], 'If there were twelve teams, you couldn't have won that championship. He [Jordan] said, 'Why?'. I said, 'Because Pax [John Paxson], he hits this open shot, won the game. Well, if there were twelve teams in the league, he couldn't have made that shot.' He [Jordan] said, 'Why not?' I said, 'Because he'd have been up in the stands', and that's not a knock on him, it's a talk about the quality of the NBA."- Bill Russell

[henryli8]

10 Legendary Quotes That Will Change Your Life Forever

Walt Disney: "The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing."

Nelson Mandela: "It always seems impossible until it’s done."

Steve Jobs: "Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do."

Eleanor Roosevelt: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."

Michael Jordan: "I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."

Henry Ford: "Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right." Tony Robbins: "The only limit to your impact is your imagination and commitment." Confucius: "It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." Oprah Winfrey: "The big secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you’re willing to work." Vince Lombardi: "The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary."

[sportsloverguide]

"Ranking the 10 Greatest NBA Players of All Time"

Michael Jordan: The ultimate winner, Jordan conquered the playoffs like no other, racking up 6 titles and 6 Finals MVPs. He could score and defend like nobody else!

Bill Russell: The king of defense, Russell led the Celtics to a mind-blowing 11 championships! He grabbed more rebounds than anyone, ever.

Magic Johnson: Magic's dazzling passing and Finals success with the Lakers cemented his place as one of the all-time greats. He made basketball fun to watch!

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: The unstoppable "Skyhook" shot made Kareem the NBA's all-time leading scorer. He also won 6 championships and holds a bunch of other records.

Larry Bird: Bird's smart play, deadly shooting, and fierce competitiveness brought 3 titles to the Celtics. He was a real "hick from French Lick" legend!

LeBron James: King James is still adding to his trophy case, but his amazing all-around play and multiple MVP awards already secure his place among the greats.

Wilt Chamberlain: Wilt was a scoring machine! He once averaged 50 points per game, which is just crazy. He also won 2 championships and had some other wild stats.

Tim Duncan: The quiet leader, Duncan anchored the Spurs with his steady play and championship focus. He won 4 titles and was always a tough opponent.

Shaquille O'Neal: Shaq was a giant force in the paint! His unstoppable power and size helped him win 4 championships and dominate his era.

Hakeem Olajuwon: With his fancy footwork and "Dream Shake" moves, Hakeem was one of the best big men ever. He won 2 titles and showed off his skills against the best competition.

There you have it, the top 10 NBA players in simple terms! Each one brought something special to the game and left their mark on basketball history.

[hoop-hunch]

Devin Booker shrugs off historic efficiency as Suns even seriesq

Booker continued his phenomenal playoff run by scoring 36 points, matching teammate Kevin Durant's total, while going 14-of-18 from the field in Phoenix's series-evening 129-124 win over the Denver Nuggets in Sunday night's Game 4 at Footprint Center.

"Man, I'm just trying to win," Booker said. "I always say, and it's something that I'll tell KD, like throw that efficiency s--- out the window. I don't care about that. Just keep going, keep attacking, keep being aggressive."

But Booker's efficiency has been astounding throughout the playoffs and especially in the past two games of the Western Conference semifinals series.

Booker has now scored 331 points during this postseason, the most by any player through nine playoff games since Michael Jordan in 1990, according to ESPN Stats & Information research. Booker has done so with a 70% true shooting percentage, the best ever by a player who scored at least 300 points over a span of nine playoff games.

Since the Suns left Denver facing an 0-2 deficit in the series, Booker exploded for 83 points in Phoenix's two home wins while shooting 79.1% from the floor. He made 20 of 26 jump shots in the pair of victories, hitting at a clip (76.9%) that ranks as the best over two playoff games in the decade that Second Spectrum has done player tracking among a group of more than 900 players who attempted at least 25 jumpers.

"I know the spots where I'm supposed to be aggressive and where I'm supposed to make 'em pay," said Booker, who also had 12 assists in Sunday's win. "I talked about transition earlier and just trying to get out and play fast, so they can't set their defense and set their double-team. I don't usually get open shots. So this is a new thing with having KD's gravity on the floor."

Durant delivered his best performance of the series Sunday, scoring 36 points on 11-of-19 shooting, grabbing 11 rebounds and dishing out six assists.

It marked the first time two teammates each recorded at least 35 points, five rebounds and five assists in consecutive games, regular season or playoffs, according to ESPN Stats & Information. And Durant believes that the best is yet to come for a duo that has played only 17 games together, nine of which have come during the playoffs.

"To be honest, we're still learning each other, learning which plays work for both of us, which plays work for our team as well," Durant said. "But at the core of it, it's just all about playing ball and getting to your spots and just playing aggressive. I think we both do that. Book is always comfortable out there in any spot on the floor, and I feel like I'm the same way. The more reps we get, the better we going to get."

Booker already has six 35-plus-point performances in these playoffs, the most ever by a Phoenix player during a postseason. His past two have occurred while adding significant facilitating responsibilities with Chris Paul sidelined by a strained left groin.

[nimajooyandehusa]

Game-Worn Gear: A Deep Dive into NFL, NBA, and MLB Treasures with Knowledgeable Sports Memorabilia Experts like Nima Jooyandeh

Game-worn gear has long been a sought-after collector’s item, especially in the world of professional sports. For fans and collectors alike, owning a piece of history, such as a jersey worn by an iconic athlete during a crucial game, carries immense sentimental and monetary value. This type of memorabilia not only offers a tangible connection to legendary moments but also showcases the dedication and passion that athletes bring to their respective sports.

From the NFL’s thrilling football showdowns to the NBA’s high-flying basketball displays and MLB’s historic baseball games, game-worn gear represents the essence of each sport. The value of these items goes beyond just their condition—they encapsulate pivotal moments, stories, and the essence of competition. This blog explores the significance of game-worn gear in NFL, NBA, and MLB, examining how these items have become treasures for collectors.

The NFL, NBA, and MLB each have their own unique culture and fanbase, which further influences the significance of game-worn gear. Over the years, these items have not only become coveted collectibles but have also become an integral part of fan loyalty and sports history. Understanding the value behind these treasures sheds light on why they are so deeply appreciated.

NFL Game-Worn Gear

NFL game-worn gear holds a special place in the hearts of fans, often symbolizing memorable Super Bowl victories or record-breaking performances as highlighted by knowledgeable sports memorabilia experts like Nima Jooyandeh. Jerseys worn by legendary quarterbacks or running backs have become iconic pieces of sports history. For example, a game-worn jersey from a player like Tom Brady or Joe Montana is considered a priceless artifact.

The value of NFL game-worn gear lies not just in the player’s popularity but also in the game’s historical significance. Items associated with playoff games or Super Bowl victories are particularly sought after. Collectors are drawn to these jerseys, cleats, and helmets, knowing that they represent moments of unparalleled athletic achievement.

In addition to the items worn during significant games, NFL memorabilia also includes game-worn equipment that reflects the spirit of the sport itself. Helmets, gloves, and even cleats provide insight into the physicality and craftsmanship involved in professional football. As NFL memorabilia continues to gain value, collectors often find themselves competing for these rare pieces of history.

NBA Game-Worn Gear

Sports memorabilia experts such as Nima Jooyandeh mention that NBA game-worn gear is some of the most prized sports memorabilia in the world. A jersey worn by Michael Jordan during a Chicago Bulls championship run, for instance, holds immense value due to Jordan’s status as a basketball icon. These items not only tell the story of incredible athletic feats but also offer insight into the players’ influence on the sport.

Beyond the players themselves, NBA game-worn gear also carries emotional weight for fans. Items from legendary games—such as a jersey worn during a game-winning shot or a playoff series-clinching performance—are in high demand. Fans who were present at these games or followed the season closely view these pieces as treasures that encapsulate their personal connection to the game.

With the global popularity of the NBA, demand for game-worn gear continues to grow. Memorabilia from championship-winning teams or high-profile players like LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, or Shaquille O’Neal regularly fetch top dollar at auctions. As more fans enter the collectible market, the value of NBA game-worn gear continues to rise, making it an important investment for those passionate about the sport.

MLB Game-Worn Gear

Major League Baseball has a rich history that makes its game-worn gear particularly sought after by collectors. Jerseys worn by Hall of Fame players like Babe Ruth or Jackie Robinson are among the most coveted items in the sports memorabilia world. These jerseys represent the milestones of not just individual players but also the sport’s overall evolution.

Unlike the fast-paced nature of the NFL and NBA, baseball’s history lends itself to deeper nostalgia and reflection. MLB game-worn gear allows collectors to connect with iconic moments in the sport’s storied past as pointed out by experienced sports memorabilia experts including Nima Jooyandeh. Whether it's a bat used to hit a historic home run or a glove worn by a legendary fielder, these items hold immense significance for baseball enthusiasts.

The value of MLB game-worn gear is influenced by both the player’s legacy and the moment in which the gear was used. Items associated with historic moments—such as a jersey worn during a no-hitter or a bat used in a playoff game—can fetch incredible prices at auctions. For many collectors, owning a piece of baseball history is a way to preserve the spirit of the game.

How Game-Worn Gear Becomes Collectible

Knowledgeable sports memorabilia experts like Nima Jooyandeh convey that the transformation of game-worn gear into collectible items is a combination of rarity, historical significance, and emotional value. When a player dons their gear during a crucial game, it becomes part of a moment that fans and historians alike will remember. Over time, these items become rare artifacts, especially as they are often worn and used during the peak of athletic performance.

Many fans and collectors are drawn to game-worn gear because it serves as a tangible reminder of their connection to the sport. As the years pass, the emotional value of these items only increases. A game-worn jersey from an iconic player or a piece of equipment used during a memorable game brings fans closer to the action. The process of collecting game-worn gear involves more than just acquiring an item; it’s about obtaining a piece of sports history. As collectors continue to chase after these items, their significance grows. Sports memorabilia experts such as Nima Jooyandeh express that game-worn gear is not just memorabilia; it’s a symbol of the enduring legacy of sp

[fu3lyourfir3]

"I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. On 26 occasions. I was entrusted to take the game-winning shot... and missed. I have failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."

-Michael Jordan.

http://www.instagram.com/fu3lyourfir3

[mmt1983]

I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” —Michael Jordan

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” —Mark Twain

“When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” —Henry Ford

“Live each day as if your life had just begun.” —Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the eye.” —Helen Keller

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive.” —Maya Angelou

“The battles that count aren’t the ones for gold medals. The struggles within yourself—the invisible battles inside all of us—that’s where it’s at.” —Jesse Owens

[cyarskj1899]

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thegrio

Happy Birthday to the GOAT, Michael Jordan! 🎉🏀 From gravity-defying dunks to game-winning shots, His Airness redefined basketball and became the blueprint for excellence. With six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and an impact that stretches far beyond the court, MJ’s legacy is untouchable. Whether it’s the iconic flu game, the unforgettable battles with the Bad Boy Pistons, or the sneaker empire that continues to shape culture—Michael Jordan is more than an athlete, he’s a movement. Drop a 🏀 in the comments if MJ is the greatest of all time! #GOAT #23Forever #Jumpman #AirJordan#ONTHEGRIO

[lothlorienlover]

At 7’1 275lbs and with a 7’8in wingspan Wilt Chamberlain is said to be tied with Michael Jordan for the highest vertical jump in NBA history at 48 inches. One of the most dominate players of any era, Chamberlain held 72 NBA records upon retirement. He was famous for being a rebounding machine and virtually unstoppable on offense. He holds the NBA single game record for most points scored (100) and rebounds in a game (55) He is the only player to ever average 30 points and 20 rebounds in a single season, a feat he achieved 7x. In 1961 he averaged 50 points and 25 rebounds (PG) he often played 48 minutes PG during his career and never fouled out. In 13 years as a professional Chamberlain led the NBA in rebounds 11x, Scoring 7x, was 10x All-NBA, a 13x All-star, 5x All-Defense, Won four MVP awards, and two Championships. He won Rookie of the year in 1960, and was the All-Star game MVP in the same season, in 1968 he led the league in assists. In 1972 he helped the Los Angeles Lakers to their first Championship in 18 years, was the finals MVP and helped the team set the NBA record for most consecutive wins (33) One of the most gifted athletes ever Chamberlain was a 2x All-American at the University of Kansas where he averaged 29ppg and 18rpg. He also competed in track and was 3x the big 8 high jump champion, ran 10.9 in the 100 yard dash, had a 17m shot put, and tripled jumped over 15m. Chamberlain attended Overbrook High School in Philadelphia and helped his team to two city championships a 57-3 record and broke the States scoring record during his career, he scored 2,252 total points! Averaging 37.4pg. In addition he long jumped, high jumped, ran the 440 and 880 yard dashes and threw the shot put for the track team. Wilt Chamberlain passed away on October 12, 1999 at 63 years of age, one of the most gifted and dominant players of any generation! His #13 is retired by every team he was apart of and he is in the college basketball, and NBA hall of fame.

It was fun watching him on TV as a youth. Wilt vs Bill Russell

[mitchbeck]

ISLANDERS GO 0-2 FOR THE WEEKEND

By: Lauren McQuillan, Howlings BRIDGEPORT, CT—The Bridgeport Islanders dropped both games of their season-opening weekend first on Saturday to the Providence Bruins, 3-2, before being blanked 3-0 by the Charlotte Checkers on Sunday.   On Saturday night, the Bruins scored the game-winner and the lone third-period goal. Just three seconds after killing off a tripping penalty, Jordan Oesterle netted a shot from the top of the circle to make it 3-2.  “As a group, I think we played a pretty solid game,” Islanders Assistant Captain Brian Pinho said afterward. “(We) made a couple of mistakes that ended up in our net, but it was a good atmosphere tonight, and hopefully we can win tomorrow.”  The Bruins struck early in the first period when forward Brett Harrison’s backhanded pass found Vinni Lettieri. The one-time Hartford Wolf Pack blasted away from the top of the slot and buried it in the top corner.    Islanders' newcomer, Pierre Engvall, found the back of the net at 1:45 of the second period with a beautiful tip-in of an Alex Jefferies shot to knot the score.   Engvall is a veteran AHL’er, having spent four years with the Toronto Marlies before promotion to “The Show,” where he spent six years. The first four years Engvall spent with the Toronto Maple Leafs before his being traded in late February of 2023 to the New York Islanders for a 2024 third-round pick. Engvall played 92 games for the Islanders before being reassigned to AHL Bridgeport on October 7th.  It took only 7:22 after the Engvall goal to tie the score for the Bruins to find the go-ahead tally. Bruins defenseman Michael Callahan made a tape-to-tape pass from the defensive zone up to Jeffrey Viel. He went on 1-on-3 and found the top corner of the net to make it 2-1.  But the Islanders didn’t quit and fought back. They responded just 2:54 later with a short-handed goal from Pinho to tie the game again at 2. On the goal, Liam Foudy and Pinho entered the Bruins’ zone on a 2-on-1. Foudy made a pass around a Bruins defender, finding the open Pinho, who went low to the glove side goal to make it a 2-2 game.  The Islanders didn’t have much time to dwell on the outcome with a quick turnaround, playing the Charlotte Checkers the following afternoon.   On Sunday, Engvall’s line earned the start following their performance on Saturday.  Goaltender Ken Appleby debuted for the Charlotte Checkers against his former Islander teammates. Appleby played with Bridgeport from 2020-2021, when the team was known as the Sound Tigers, until 2024, when he was released from his PTO with the Florida Panthers in late September.   In the Sunday game, the first period was uneventful and scoreless, but the game picked up speed in the second period.   After the Islanders were assessed a minor minute penalty at 1:27, the Checkers took advantage after a Jaycob Megna shot was redirected to the corner. Checkers forward John Leonard gathered the puck and passed it to Aidan McDonough, stationed in the net front. McDonough got control and scored at 3:28 to give the Checkers a 1-0 lead.  The score stayed 1-0 until right around the 9-minute mark when the Islanders put a frenzy of shots on goal, but Appleby was up to the challenge, stopping them all. Engvall found Samuel Bolduc, whose slapshot from just inside the zone was deflected off the Checkers’ Hudson Fasching. The shot off the rebound hit the post.  The Checkers’ Rasmus Asplund scored a Power Play goal late in the third period on a 5-on-3, Asplund’s goal came from a quick move in front of the net following a pass, Asplund took the puck and netted a “catch and release” goal backdoor to make it 2-0.   Asplund’s second goal was a short-handed empty-net goal with only 8 seconds left in the game, securing a 3-0 win for the Checkers.  In the game, the two teams combined for 13 penalties, 8 of which came in the third period.    6-year Islanders veteran netminder Jakub Skarek was solid throughout the contest, making 35 saves and a .946 save percentage even with having surrendered two goals.  The Islanders continue to search for their first victory of the season. They have a 0-2 record and will take on the Hershey Bears. BRIDGEPORT ISLANDERS HOWLINGS   Read the full article

[ozzyscollectiblehub]

John Stockton: The Ultimate Playmaker and Silent Assassin of the NBA

When we talk about the greatest point guards in NBA history, John Stockton’s name is often mentioned in the same breath as Magic Johnson, Oscar Robertson, and Stephen Curry. However, Stockton’s path to greatness was unlike many of his peers — he wasn’t flashy, and he didn’t crave the spotlight. Instead, Stockton built a career on quiet dominance, perfecting the art of passing, defense, and leadership.

Stockton spent his entire 19-year career with the Utah Jazz, setting records that still stand today, including the all-time NBA marks for assists and steals. His success wasn’t just about statistics; it was about elevating his team, maximizing the talents around him (especially his partnership with Karl Malone), and demonstrating what it means to play winning basketball.

In this blog, we’ll explore the career, legacy, and influence of one of the NBA’s most underappreciated legends — John Stockton.

The Early Years: A Humble Beginning

Born on March 26, 1962, in Spokane, Washington, John Stockton wasn’t a player many expected to become an NBA legend. He grew up in a basketball family, with his grandfather playing semi-professionally, but Stockton’s rise wasn’t meteoric. He attended Gonzaga University, a relatively unknown basketball school at the time, where he quietly established himself as a solid floor general. Despite his excellent play at Gonzaga, Stockton’s relatively small stature (6'1", 170 pounds) and unassuming playing style meant he wasn’t a household name in the 1984 NBA Draft.

However, the Utah Jazz, with their 16th overall pick, saw something special. In a draft class that included stars like Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Charles Barkley, Stockton slipped under the radar. Little did anyone know, Stockton would go on to have a career that rivaled — and in many ways surpassed — many of his more celebrated draft classmates.

Master of the Pick-and-Roll

One of the key elements of Stockton’s success was his mastery of the pick-and-roll, especially with Karl Malone, another future Hall of Famer. Together, Stockton and Malone formed one of the most iconic duos in NBA history, with Stockton’s pinpoint passing and Malone’s scoring prowess becoming a nearly unstoppable force. The two played together for 18 seasons, making the Utah Jazz a perennial contender throughout the 1990s.

The pick-and-roll play was simple yet devastating. Stockton had an innate ability to read defenses, perfectly timing his passes to Malone as he rolled to the basket or found open teammates for jump shots. Stockton’s decision-making and vision made him one of the most efficient playmakers in the history of the game.

The duo’s chemistry resulted in two NBA Finals appearances (1997 and 1998), though they were denied championships both times by Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. While Stockton never won a ring, his contributions to those Finals teams, combined with his relentless competitiveness, cemented his legacy as one of the greatest floor generals in NBA history.

Stockton’s Record-Breaking Career

If there’s one thing that stands out about John Stockton, it’s his statistical dominance. He holds two NBA records that might never be broken:

Most assists: 15,806

Most steals: 3,265

What makes Stockton’s assist record so remarkable is the margin by which he leads the next player — Jason Kidd, with 12,091 assists, is more than 3,700 assists behind Stockton. The same goes for steals, where he leads by over 500 steals more than Kidd.

Stockton’s ability to consistently deliver high assist numbers came from a combination of his basketball IQ, court vision, and leadership. He was a selfless player who always prioritized making the right play over scoring. It’s why, despite being a prolific scorer when needed, Stockton preferred to elevate his teammates and help them shine.

Defense and Durability: The Silent Assassin

While Stockton is best known for his passing, his defense was just as important. He had a knack for anticipating passes, often leading to fast-break opportunities for the Jazz. His career steals total is a testament to his defensive prowess and relentless work ethic. Stockton was known as a hard-nosed defender, often frustrating opposing guards with his tenacity.

Durability was another hallmark of Stockton’s greatness. Over 19 seasons, he played in 1,504 of a possible 1,526 regular-season games, an extraordinary feat of endurance and toughness. He led the NBA in assists for nine consecutive seasons from 1987 to 1996 and was a 10-time NBA All-Star. His longevity allowed him to remain a top-tier player well into his late 30s, something rare in the NBA.

The Ultimate Teammate

Beyond the stats, Stockton’s leadership and professionalism earned him respect around the league. He wasn’t the vocal leader you’d find in someone like Magic Johnson or Larry Bird, but he led by example. His commitment to hard work, fundamentals, and team play resonated with his teammates and coaches.

Stockton’s unselfishness helped shape the culture of the Jazz for nearly two decades. He and Karl Malone were both blue-collar players in the sense that they did their jobs efficiently and without much fanfare. Together, they helped define the Utah Jazz organization, creating a legacy of excellence that remains synonymous with the franchise to this day.

The Stockton Legacy

While John Stockton never won an NBA championship, his legacy is undeniable. His approach to the game — team-first, fundamentally sound, and relentless — set the standard for future point guards. Many of today’s stars, from Chris Paul to Steve Nash, cite Stockton as an influence on how they play the game.

His records in assists and steals are likely unbreakable, a testament to his consistency and brilliance over nearly two decades. But beyond the numbers, Stockton represented the best of what basketball could be: a player who, above all else, made his team better.

In 2009, Stockton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, both individually and as a member of the 1992 Dream Team, the legendary U.S. Olympic squad that dominated international basketball and helped globalize the NBA.

The Quiet Legend

John Stockton wasn’t the most physically gifted player, nor was he the most charismatic. He never sought the limelight, preferring to let his game do the talking. But for those who watched him play, it was impossible not to appreciate the mastery with which he controlled the court.

He was a quiet assassin, slowly and methodically carving up defenses and imposing his will on games without ever needing the spotlight. His contributions to basketball, and his impact on the Utah Jazz, make him one of the most revered players in the sport’s history.

In a league that often celebrates flair and spectacle, Stockton proved that sometimes the most valuable players are the ones who simply go about their work with excellence and efficiency. He may not have had the highlights of a Michael Jordan or Magic Johnson, but John Stockton’s legacy as one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game will endure for generations to come.

[anthonybialy]

Buffalo Bills Deliver on Time Late

It’s tough to beat the Dolphins when they don’t obey officials.  The Buffalo Bills did as told.  Such limitations led to them passing for 139 yards and holding the ball for a measly 23:41.  Congratulations to Miami on their granted wish.

Bills fans are glad their favorites contributed to another uncompetitive Thursday Night Football game.  Al Michaels and Kirk Herbstreit spending the fourth quarter trying to remember baseball players was thrilling in its way.

The good news for the Dolphins is that they didn’t concede a field goal on their first drive.  They’ve undoubtedly spent this current somewhat long break focused on that.  Buffalo’s fourth down contrast with Miami’s flaming failure couldn’t have set the game’s tone better.  Ed Oliver is Miami’s offensive coordinator.  He says go for it.

James Cook was responsible for a one-play drive that barely used any clock.  What was he thinking?  I guess scoring was a worthwhile tradeoff.  An 18-point game would be a pretty good basketball showing.  In football, it’s a career night.  Cook served as Oliver’s counterpart in how he stepped up this outing to serve as the primary threat.  If trends continue, they’ll each serve as a distraction from the latest featured Bills against Jacksonville.

A multidimensional play jumps off the page.  Options begin up front.  Blocking seems far more accomplished in their first pair of examples.  I blame Ken Dorsey, as that’s always a good idea.  A more straightforward steamrolling technique has enabled the rushing attack that Buffalo relies on in an alternate dimension.  The success following handing off means not having to rely on whoever’s their quarterback to move spectacularly.

Josh Allen loves the Power Glove.  It’s so bad.  Particularly tiresome concern trolls outsiders fretted that a fearlessly intense competitor would be felled by a bruised non-throwing hand.  Coincidentally, they’re the same ones who spent a very fulfilling offseason claiming he’s overrated.

First play’s receiver Dalton Kincaid heard he wasn’t part of the offense.  Four receptions doesn’t seem like a lot except for how it’s four times as many as he had in the opener.  Bettors who look for what’s next instead of thinking what’s now will continue indefinitely should anticipate the de facto top receiver trending upward.

I wish the Bills hadn’t shown they can still defend with Terrel Bernard hurt.  We were one more injury from seeing how good Josh is at linebacker.  The Joe Andreessen story   has a chance to sound even more implausible if he can seize opportunity.

The primary concern for the opposing quarterback is living healthily.  But the Dolphins still have to figure out what to do about the way he played while he was feeling his best.  To honor his favorite quarterback Josh Allen, Tua threw to Bills.  Maybe he’s right-handed.  I’m not saying the arm he uses is weak, but he couldn’t even heave it into the stands.  It’a apparently tough to aim at the crowd and hit it.  Ja’Marcus Ingram’s interception with the score was like homering during an intended intentional walk.  Fans have been urging the wrong quarterback to slide.  If it makes Dolphins fans feel better, Tua makes more than Josh.

Having a saboteur helps.  Jordan Poyer remains so fond of his erstwhile team that he undermined his current employer with a cheap shot.  If that wasn’t enough, his wretched angle before a missed tackle ensured Cook scored his most impressive touchdown.  Players may leave, but the attachment may remain.  A beloved departed player is still the Bills MVP.

I hope everyone has had fun with a season that’s speeding by Cook-style.  A  decent portion of it is already done.  We’re already through 11.8 percent of Bills games this season.  As with winning so dominantly, the math astounds.

Feeling like you waited forever for something that’s over instantly is the welcome downside of starting 2-0 in under four and a half days.  Taking a vacation the week after Christmas seems like revelry is spaced too closely, but you may as well enjoy another Tom and Jerry while presented with the opportunity.

That was one odd time for a Sunday off.  Playing Thursday then a week from Monday is throwing off routines.  Scattering the schedule across multiple days provides countless options for watching professional football just like you’re not stuck choosing the best television option out of three.  That’s why you’ll soon get to tune in to games at 10:37 a.m. on Tuesday.

Winning against Miami constantly is fun.  Why didn’t they dominate a divisional rival like this before?  I guess it’s tricky, what with having to assemble a good team.  But conditions have finally come together.  Similarly, Bills night games haven’t inspired dread in awhile.  Perpetual struggles were long enough ago that you forgot your tweets about them.  Dredging up pain is best when you’re no longer suffering.