There’s his team, the Sacramento Kings. He’s their clutch architect, entrusted with the responsibility of winning close games. He’s so nice with that part. So nice that he was fifth in total clutch points scored last season and third in most clutch field goals made, too. 

He’s the Kings’ offensive foundation in all the other moments of the game. He breaks defensive walls with speed that scares. Got defenders looking like the Popeyes lady. They can’t catch him or their breath. He makes dudes in their mid-20s look like grey beards at the barber shop, the ones talking about how nice they used to be. But he’s really that nice. 

He’s got five straight seasons of 20-plus points per game to his name. And with how he’s stacked the improvement of his career, the numbers don’t illustrate the way he’s pieced everything together. 

Bop, bop–quick cross. He’s found space. Lots of it. Could be a faster-than-light pull from the midrange. Defender won’t even get their hand up. That kind of speed. Could be a left-handed smash at the rim over a skyscraper. One of those dunks where his legs kick back behind him. Something to see the Flow outsole real good. Could be a dish to one of the many shooters that now call Sacramento home. Could be a drop-off to the big. But it will be a bucket. And it will be rapid. 

Alright, offense orchestrated. Time for defense. The kind of defense that some coach in the middle of the country is gonna show their star player. “See, see, this is that desire,” he’s gonna say. “You play like this? You play like this? You’re gonna make it.” He’s gonna almost plead with the kid. He’s gonna show Fox picking up three-quarter court, sitting on the point guard’s strong hand. When that point guard does a lazy spin move to try and get back to his dominant side, Fox will pick him on the turn. Boom. Bye bye. Another bucket. 

That’s the way Fox has been upping his game. He’s got the Kings in prime position to scare the daylights out of the West. 

But it’s the night lights that are coming to define this All-Star. There’s the beam. It gets lit every time the Kings win a game. It rises high through the Sacramento sky, a vertical line of purple, built as a warning shot.

Not night lights of the city, though. Nah, not those kinds that are made for social outings. He intimately knows the night lights of weight rooms, of empty gyms, of phone screens. After the workouts that nobody sees, Fox has been building something else. He’s been working on the Fox 1 by Curry Brand. 

Now all those texts messages, emails and FaceTimes back and forth with Ed Wallace, Senior Designer at Curry Brand and Under Armour, have been realized in a physical product. 

The Fox 1 by Curry Brand is here.

A Friday under the daylight of Rancho Cordova, CA, is where all the time under the night lights pays off. Fox, along with his wife Recee and their daughter Poppy, saunters into the athletic facility where we’ve set up our cameras. Fox gets his hair cut by Kevin McClain of Skills Barbershop. Recee eats some lunch. And three colorways of the Fox 1 are waiting for all of us. 

The “Happy Fox Day” is a blue/orange joint inspired by one of Fox’s favorite Christmas movies, Jingle Jangle. The purple/green “Light the Beam” is an homage to the aforementioned winning signal that shines over Sac-Town. 

No. 5’s favorite edition of the trio we have here on set is the “Happy Fox Day Alt.” It’s a green option, also inspired by that same movie. Green is the lefty’s favorite color and it induces a vocal reaction from him when he sees it. 

Slowly, without even realizing it, Fox has been working on a database of colorway ideas. He loves video games, he loves anime and he loves his kids. Those are just the foundations for what we’ll see on the Fox 1. 

“Ed would come to me and ask, you know, five, six, seven different questions and then you give him an answer and I’m thinking, I don’t know what the hell he’s gonna do with that answer,” Fox says. “Then he comes back with, like, 75 different concepts of the 10 things that you might have told him. So just how the creative people are behind the scenes, just having him take those words, come back, you know, a week or two later and putting them on a paper and then asking, you know, Which ones do you like? That process was crazy.”

Wallace heard a lot about Dragon Ball Z and Avatar in his early conversations with Fox. They started to make him PEs of the Curry 1, Curry 2 and the Curry 4 that were callouts to some of his interests, including one for his son, Reign. But as Wallace got to work on the signature, things took an unexpected turn. 

“I started looking at more animals, like foxes,” he says. “Normally I wouldn’t have a reason to do that. It’s just something I thought about. Like, This can be cool to put a little fur up there [on the tongue] and having a strap as I was thinking about speed and brought that to a point [where] I was like, I can make this look like a little fox tail. So those were the things I never explored before.” 

The Fox 1’s defining design piece is the midfoot strap. Each of these different colorways has a different visual across the strap. It’s something De’Aaron had always wanted, ever since he was playing in Under Armour silhouettes as a middle schooler. 

“A big thing for me was having a strap,” Fox says. “One of my favorite shoes to play in growing up was the Bloodlines with Brandon Jennings. That and the Black Ices. The Black Ices also had a strap, too. Those were kind of the concepts that I thought about. I didn’t know what the strap would look like exactly, but when going through the process, I’m like, That’s a big thing for me.” 

Wallace, who is also the lead designer on the Curry line, said that he initially sat down with Fox at a photo shoot for the Curry 11. Fox mentioned then that he wanted a strap. Wallace ended up with a fixed strap and a two-mesh upper, along with no-sew wrapping near the toe area and a heel overlay that provides support under the heel. The traction is powered by Flow, the mainstay cushioning for No. 30 since the Curry 8. Curry Brand’s innovators found out how to remove rubber from their products, resulting in premium grip on the outsole. The Brand’s namesake is always heavily involved in the sneaker creation process. But he wasn’t for this one and it resulted in an amazing memory. 

“When we were in China actually, he hadn’t seen the shoe yet,” Fox says about the trip that he accompanied Stephen Curry on in September. “So when we were in China, we were about to lift in the hotel and he was like, Yo, you got your shoe? I’m like, No, I don’t got them on me. He was like, Damn, I wanna see them.”

When he finally did see them, it was a wrap. 

“He didn’t let them go,” Fox continues. “We went through a whole workout actually, he was, like, holding them, putting them down, doing his thing and then, like, [he’d] be looking at them… Like, Steph’s 10 years older than me, right? I think he’s played eight more years than me. But I watched—I was in high school when Steph won his first MVP, when he won his first championship. Since I’ve gotten to a certain level, I’ve never really, like, necessarily idolized guys. But then when we went on that trip, I’m, like, Steph is on a different level. The way that people react when they get around Steph is, like… But then when you actually see it, we can’t even walk through an airport. Just being around someone of that stature and then seeing him love the product that has my name and my logo on it is just, like, that’s a different feeling, too.”

It won’t be the last time that Fox sees someone wearing his sneaker. He’s already heard from teammates and opponents about the silhouette, although it was just preseason by the time we went to print. He wants to see them on teammates, on his opponents and on fans in the streets. 

“We knew we had to bring a lot of energy and make the shoe fun,” Wallace says. “He also talked about wanting to make the shoe look fast. We know his playing style, so we knew that we needed the shoe to look fast, and he also mentioned that he wanted it to look runner-esque.”

Fox and his close friend Reno have also been mentioning that they’re trying to usher in a bygone era with the Fox 1’s aesthetics. 

“Reno definitely was the most excited,” Fox says. “We kind of knew how we wanted it to look a little bit. He was like, I’m wearing them with jeans, [with] sweats. I’m bringing back the wearing basketball shoes with jeans.

“I’m like, yeah, I want a shoe that you don’t only wear on the basketball court because especially, like I said, this day and age, people aren’t going to buy basketball shoes to not play in them. So we wanna kinda have that. We wanna try to have the best of both worlds.”

So Fox is building with the Kings and with his signature sneaker. And Curry Brand is building out their larger family. 

That’s the key word—family. 

Type of family that goes all the way to China and then comes back for a barbecue on a Sunday afternoon. Where Canon Curry plays around with Reign Fox. Where No. 30 and No. 5 go head-to-head in postseason matchups and then hug it out afterward. Curry Brand is a family, where athletic gifts take a backseat to morals. 

“I couldn’t think of a better athlete and person to join the Curry Brand team,” the best shooter ever says of Fox. “To have somebody that believes in what you’re doing, believes in what the brand stands for, and believes in not just being a Curry Brand athlete, but taking that and building that into your identity as a player is special. And that’s exactly why we chose De’Aaron—he believes in Curry Brand and our mission as much as he believes in himself on the court. I’m grateful to have a partner that is so dedicated to our brand and invested in what our collective future holds.” 

What does that future hold? Lots and lots more clutch shots. Lots and lots more speed that scares. Lots and lots more steals. And lots and lots more Fox 1 colorways. Because brick by brick, step by step, De’Aaron Fox is building. 

Portraits by Atiba Jefferson.

The post De’Aaron Fox on the Fox 1 by Curry Brand, Family and His Love of Christmas appeared first on SLAM.

Obviously, I was always the one to have it. My mom would take me to 7-Eleven and the donut shop, and that was the first two things I’d ask for in the morning, every first of the month. 

Seeing that new SLAM as a 7th grader, it made me work harder. As I was setting up all my goals as a hooper — playing in the McDonald’s Game, being a national champion in High School, and eventually making it to the NBA — being in SLAM was right there at the top of my list. 

When I was 12, I knew that if I made the SLAM cover one day, our lives would change. 

The first time I thought I could be in SLAM was when I saw Sebastian Telfair and LeBron James on the cover as high school basketball players. That right there took it to the next level for me. Just a few years later, before my 10th grade year at Dominguez High School in LA, there I was, doing my first photoshoot to be in SLAM.

I was in the locker room, just mean mugging the whole time. Just letting the world know: There’s a hostile young kid from Compton coming.

I just always loved the grittiness, and seeing some of the best basketball players from around the world in the magazine. You were always hearing the hype about players for the first time. As the competitors that we are, everyone wants to go against the best, and SLAM always kept you updated on who was coming and who was next. 

Fast forward to now, and hearing that SLAM is going into the Hall of Fame on its 30th anniversary — it’s well deserved. It’s just a big moment for real basketball. With everything that they put into the streets, the love of basketball has definitely paid off for them. I’m just happy for everyone that I’ve known at the magazine over the years. 

To celebrate SLAM’s 30th anniversary, I wanted to connect my own brand Tuff Crowd with SLAM for a fire collection. Working on this collab together is just another full circle moment in my life. 

As everyone knows, I never went to college. Me going across the country to Oak Hill early, then making the decision to skip college, go out the country and go overseas — my route in my life has always been different. Even retiring early and starting Tuff Crowd was different.  

That’s what this collection represents. That taking a risk is nothing, when you have that belief in you.

The joy of taking a risk and not knowing what’s coming is the beauty of life.

At Tuff Crowd University, we keep it hostile. It’s the school and mindset for everyone that has taken a different path in life to get to where they want to go.

We wanted to use the original SLAM logo for this collection, with that grittiness, to take it all the way back to ’94. We’ve got a coach’s jacket, two hoodies, two tees and some game shorts that are crazy. It’s about having that coaching swag, and celebrating the idea of school spirit and playing by your own rules.

This collab is also just showing how much the game has meant to me. Way back when I was 12, I wasn’t wrong. Being in that SLAM Magazine as a 10th grader, and then on the cover at 18 years-old in Italy and again as a NBA rookie, really did change my life.

All these years later, this collection also shows how we’re always bigger than just basketball players. Being able to put the ball down and get into something outside of it, but still be connected to the game of basketball, is just a great feeling of pride for what I’m building with Tuff Crowd and where I’ve been in my life. 

And I’ve got SLAM Magazine to thank for giving me that inspiration from the very beginning. 

SLAM Magazine photo credit: Drew Reynolds.

The post SLAM and Tuff Crowd Are Keeping It Hostile  appeared first on SLAM.

We compiled a group of individuals (programming note: 30 entries, not 30 people total) who mean something special to SLAM and to our audience. Read the full list here and order your copy of SLAM 248, where this list was originally published, here.

The post SLAM Presents: 30 Players Who Defined SLAM’s 30 Years appeared first on SLAM.

We compiled a group of individuals (programming note: 30 entries, not 30 people total) who mean something special to SLAM and to our audience. Read the full list here and order your copy of SLAM 248, where this list was originally published, here.

John Wall has graced the cover of SLAM as a high schooler, as a college player and as a pro. Oh, and he has a KICKS cover, too. Trying to think of someone else who can say that? There ain’t one. This issue is dedicated to the most influential SLAM guys ever. All-time players, fan favorites, real hoopers. But only John Wall can claim that. (Bragging rights for that fun fact may come on a bit of a technicality, since legends like LeBron and Kobe never played college ball, but still!)

An athletic freak able to finish with power or finesse with either hand, Wall has always been a blur—faster while dribbling a basketball than 90 percent of other players in a full sprint without one. In the prime of his career, Wall’s athleticism made him an All-NBA player, but his relentless confidence and never-back-down demeanor made him a fan favorite. At points, he called himself the best two-way point guard in the League and the best shot-blocking PG in history. At a time when Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson were still going strong, John declared himself and Bradley Beal the best backcourt in the NBA, too.

Part of what’s made Wall such a magnetic force in basketball culture since he was a teenager is that he wears his heart on his sleeve. Like when he jumped on the scorer’s table after beating the Celtics in a legendary Eastern Conference Semis Game 6, celebrating with the Wizards’ faithful. Or when he broke down crying in a postgame interview after the tragic passing of 6-year-old cancer patient Miyah, with whom he’d developed a strong bond. Or when he returned to DC years later in a Clippers uniform and proudly screamed out, “This is my city!” to the arena he called home for five All-Star seasons. Wall has always been unapologetically himself, from the very beginning.

And yet, the eventual No. 1 pick in the 2010 Draft was virtually unheard of outside of North Carolina when he started high school. But after killing local competition at Reebok camps everywhere from Chicago to Philly, we highlighted his play at the ’08 Elite 24 Game in SLAM 122.

And it must be mentioned: John Wall has the GOAT high school mixtape. With over 10 million views and counting, it is four minutes of utterly breathtaking basketball—no-look dimes, ankle-shattering fastbreak spin moves, ferocious finishes at the rim with both hands. No disrespect to the HS mixtapes of Brandon Jennings, Aquille Carr, Seventh Woods or Austin Rivers, but John’s is still the best ever. [Ed. Note: This is Abe’s opinion. We don’t have time to debate this here.] In the year 2176, people will still have his mixtape bookmarked. The top comment on YouTube jokes, “Imagine having to guard John Wall after a long day of pre-calc and AP gov,” but that’s really how it was for the Class of 2009.

We dubbed John a future star on the cover of SLAM 128, alongside Lance Stephenson. Soon after, JW linked up with DeMarcus Cousins, Eric Bledsoe and the rest of John Calipari’s first No. 1 recruiting class at Kentucky. As a freshman, he won SEC Player of the Year, was a consensus first-team All-American and was front-and-center on his second SLAM cover, appearing next to his teammates and Coach Cal on the May 2010 ish that immortalized that iconic squad.

It got so crazy at UK that John had to take golf carts to class to avoid mobs of fans. Kids across the country were imitating his signature dance, flexing and twisting at the wrist. Believe it or not, “Do the John Wall” by Troop 41 has even more YouTube views than Wall’s legendary mixtape.

Fitting that John had his own theme song, since his passion for music has always permeated his style. Hell, it influenced us—go back over his cover lines and feature stories in the pages of SLAM over the years, and you’ll see not-so-subtle odes to the likes of DeJ Loaf, Shy Glizzy, Lil Durk and Fetty Wap. That love has always been reciprocated by the artists, too. Put it this way: John Wall is probably your favorite rapper’s favorite NBA player.

Which is why it was no surprise to us when John hit the Dougie during intros of his home NBA debut, immediately capturing the imagination of a new generation of basketball fans—and pissing off old hacks like Colin Cowherd. (The same guy who once scrunched up his face to try to shit on guys like Wall, Russ and Melo by telling a national radio audience: “SLAM Magazine will put on the guy that scores, and has style, and has got some juice to his game.” Word. And?)

Wall’s first solo SLAM cover dropped during his rookie year with the Wiz, followed by another in 2015 and then KICKS 18, shot by the legendary Atiba Jefferson. John’s SLAM covers have chronicled his rise from unknown kid to HS mixtape legend to college star to perennial All-Star with his own signature shoe. And he’s taken us along for the ride every step of the way, the #WallWay. 

Featured image via Getty Images. Portrait by Atiba Jefferson.

The post THE 30 PLAYERS WHO DEFINED SLAM’S 30 YEARS: John Wall appeared first on SLAM.

We compiled a group of individuals (programming note: 30 entries, not 30 people total) who mean something special to SLAM and to our audience. Read the full list here and order your copy of SLAM 248, where this list was originally published, here.

Most players in the “SLAM 30” would, honestly, be in most basketball outlets’ rankings of the most relevant 30 players of the last three decades. Brandon Jennings, however, is a special case. Thanks to a truly symbiotic relationship made possible by Brandon’s love of SLAM, the people he surrounded himself with and our admitted bias to players who fuck with us as hard as we fuck with them, BJ is like “our” All-Star.

The relationship started regularly enough—not that it didn’t mean the world to a young Brandon. He got what we used to call a “little Punk” story in our high school section, shot in his Compton (CA) Dominguez uniform and interviewed by Ryan Jones. Just a sophomore at the time, Jennings remembers it fondly. “That was my first look in SLAM,” he says on a recent Zoom. “In the Dominguez locker room. I was so fucking excited! Like, Everybody is gonna see me. I’m known now. The SLAM thing was always the biggest thing in sports and basketball magazines. When you did the cover shoot with Sebastian [Telfair] and LeBron James and I was a kid in the 7th grade…I had to be like them. SLAM was always that stamp of approval.” 

Jennings’ path got more unique from there—as a player and a SLAM subject—as he transferred to Oak Hill Academy in VA for his last two years of high school. Not a shocking move, but to travel all the way from L.A. and go for two years was rather brave. BJ made a couple appearances in SLAM/related pubs while he was a Warrior. In August ’07, while in NYC for the second annual Elite 24 game (in which, he proudly reminds me, he set a record that was never broken for assists in the game with 23), he posed for the cover of our special PUNKS magazine alongside fellow top guards Jrue Holiday, Tyreke Evans and Lance Stephenson. Half a year later, back in the Big Apple for the Jordan Brand Classic, we shot Jennings at Grand Central Terminal for our High School All-American First Team. He’s got fond memories of both shoots but does share the one gripe he has with us in our long history. “I’m not gonna front—I was mad I didn’t get the diary that year,” Jennings says of the storied column that was penned by Evans that season.

Jennings’ path took two massively unexpected turns after high school. For one, the University of Arizona commit chose not to wait out any debates surrounding his academic eligibility and turned pro—in Italy! For another, he did so in Under Armours, becoming the first signing the famous “football” brand ever made in hoops. UA’s foray into basketball was largely led by Kris Stone, a former SLAM Advertising Manager who had a flair for marketing, a belief in Brandon and a loyalty to the Basketball Bible. We became, in many ways, the perfect place for UA to hype its move—with Jennings at the forefront. And since we’re always suckers for good access to a dope baller with personality—we were down. After a couple more small appearances in our pages, Jennings’ next SLAM hit was big time: the European adventurer was on the cover of SLAM 128 next to a more conventional Continental prospect—Spanish wunderkind Ricky Rubio. 

Future Shock, indeed.

“That was so unreal for me,” Jennings recalls today. “The decision I’d made. Ricky being who he was. I was a little nervous. The first time I met him was at that shoot, the night before we played against each other in Barcelona. I met his mom, too, rest in peace. Ricky and I just shared a little chit-chat that day. We knew we were about to do some big shit.”

Jennings’ time in the L came sooner than Rubio’s. A little while after that cover, he was in the 2009 Draft, going 10th overall to the Milwaukee Bucks. And soon after that, in just his seventh NBA game, Jennings dropped 55 points. On the Golden State Warriors and their rookie PG, Stephen Curry. What were we supposed to do? Put him on his first solo cover, of course. Behold SLAM 135, an Adam Fleischer-Atiba Jefferson production that featured Jennings bursting off the front page in a fire red Bucks uni. “That meant that I made it,” Jennings says. “I was that kid running to the store to get that magazine. Now I’m on the cover. That was a full-circle moment.”

Jennings played all 82 as a rook and copped a solo KICKS cover the next summer. He’d go on to play 555 games in the League, bouncing from Milwaukee to a few different spots before finishing his career as a Buck in ’18. It was an appropriate ending, because it connected Jennings to the Giannis Era in Milwaukee and greatly extended the lifespan of his #BucksInSix quote.

And even though he stopped playing, Jennings has stayed fresh and relevant. Most notably, he’s the founder of streetwear brand Tuff Crowd. And in another full-circle moment, the brand recently collabed with Under Armour and its current signature hooper, none other than Curry. 

You’ll never guess where you can read more about it…

Photo by Atiba Jefferson. Featured image via Getty Images.

The post THE 30 PLAYERS WHO DEFINED SLAM’S 30 YEARS: Brandon Jennings appeared first on SLAM.

Quiet as it’s kept, Osman Bangura’s fingerprints are all over the game at every level—high school, college and even the NBA. At different points over the past two decades, he coached one of the nation’s best basketball programs in Virginia’s Paul VI High School, and at Howard University for a stint. He’s also helped build Team Durant and Team Takeover, respectively, to become two of the premier Nike EYBL programs in the country. When it comes to coaching and basketball, you name it and Osman has done it. He’s played many roles, both big and small, in helping a multitude of hoopers achieve their dream of playing Division I basketball and some to the league. He has unequivocally become THE guy in the DMV grassroots basketball landscape.

“I’ve been coaching for a very long time,” says Osman. “But people don’t really know that because I don’t boast. People do the talking.”

Osman, 46, who was born in Sierra Leone and moved to Prince George’s County, Maryland when he was eight, has no qualms about playing the background while others get the shine. His soft-spoken confidence sets him apart from many of his peers. He’s not in it for his ego. He knows his role—whichever one the moment calls for—and he plays it about as well as anyone in the country in his field. He simply wants to help put kids in a position to get scholarships and help kids improve their quality of life through the game, and he’s done both ten times over. It’s not that he shies away from the notoriety and attention, but he’s not seeking it either.

“I’ve done so much for kids and I don’t expect nothing back,” he tells me. “The way I was raised, you do right and the blessings are gonna come.”

Osman got into basketball late, and though he developed to be a pretty good player, admits he was never quite the prospect like his brother, Alpha Bangura, who went on to play for St. John’s University before carving out a solid career overseas. “I’ve always been a solid player. I was more of a defensive guy, I wasn’t a stud or all-American,” says Osman describing his game. And while he earned some opportunities at the next level, his college playing career was full of forks in the road.

Unfortunately for Osman, he suffered a handful of injuries including a ruptured Achilles and detached retina, which would eventually get the best of him and prevent him from having the playing career he envisioned for himself. He last played for Division III powerhouse Virginia Wesleyan in Virginia Beach before hanging up his jersey for good. “I was so beat, I thought basketball just wasn’t for me. I couldn’t get through it,” he says. 

But Osman knew he still had more to give to the game, even if it was no longer predicated on his athletic abilities. Osman returned to Maryland and one of the first people he reached out to was Glenn Farello, then-head coach at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, one of the best public high school basketball programs in the area at the time.

Farello has since moved on to coach Paul VI, where he’s been for the past 16 seasons. Farello has been named Coach of the Year 13 times. He’s coached more than 80 college basketball players and counting, with 22 who have played professionally five who have played in the NBA. And Osman was there for a chunk of that. “I told Farello, ‘Man, listen, I’m back home [from school]. I been through so much and I want to give back. I have a lot to share,’” Osman recalls. It was a no-brainer for Farello who coached Osman’s brother, Alpha, years prior.

The year was 2003 when Osman made that phone call and jumped into coaching, and he hasn’t looked back since.

“I felt [coaching] is what I had to do, I felt like I sold myself short as a player. I know I could’ve done so much more but I just coasted through it,” says Osman. “I had to give back, even if just one person got something out of it.” Well, if you consider all the current college coaches, Division I hoopers and NBA players who Osman coached along his journey, it’s safe to say that a lot of people got something out of it. Brooklyn Nets’ Dariq Whitehead, New Orleans Pelicans’ Jordan Hawkins, Syracuse’s Judah Mintz, Oregon’s Kwame Evans and Florida State’s Jalen Warley are just a super tiny sample size of Osman’s former players.

This list of basketball success stories that Osman is attached to is only going to keep growing, too. Today, he is the head coach at Thomas Pullen, which Osman says is one of the best middle school basketball programs in Maryland. He also recently decided to part ways with Team Durant as their program director and head coach, and rejoin crosstown rival Team Takeover, where he got his first taste of coaching AAU hoops in the early 2010s. Even with Osman leaving Team Durant and joining forces with a rival squad, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone badmouth him or question his integrity. And that’s because Osman’s intentions are made very clear; it’s always all about the kids.

Many people consider the DMV to be the promise land for college basketball recruiting, and Osman is at the center of it. He’s not the only major figure in this space, but he’s at the top of a shortlist of the most impactful. And while Osman could justifiably walk around with his chest out, he prefers to play it cool. He gives the credit back to his student-athletes and his staff every chance he gets.

“Without the kids, there’s no coaching,” says Osman. “And the biggest thing I would say is that there’s way you could do all of this by yourself. I would absolutely not be successful if I didn’t have my staff. I have it easy because I stand up [and coach], but these guys take a lot off my shoulders from scouting, recruiting, washing uniforms and driving vans.”

There aren’t many youth coaches out there with a track record that’s comparable to Osman’s. He’s done just about everything this game has to offer. But he’s still determined to keep growing and evolving. He says he still has feats to accomplish and goals to check off. He’s worked at every level except the NBA, and that’s where he has his eyes set when thinking about the distant future. “I’ve done so much in this [youth basketball] space and I think I’m needed in this space. But long-term I would love to be an NBA scout or GM in the future,” says Osman. “I couldn’t play at the highest level but maybe I can coach, be a scout or in the front office at the highest level and impact the game that way.”

Sure, his goals are lofty but I wouldn’t bet against Osman. And it goes back to something he said early on, “you do right and the blessings are gonna come.” He’s not perfect, nobody is. But Osman has done a lot of right over the years. It’s safe to assume the blessings are going to continue coming tenfold.

Curtis’ Corner

Hoops: Another week of college hoops and another freshman putting the world on notice for what to expect for years to come. This time it was LSU WBB freshman Mikaylah Williams who dropped 42 points in a win against Kent State. LSU is loaded with experience and a championship pedigree made apparent by last year’s national championship. Adding talented freshmen like Mikaylah to the fold just means LSU will be a force to be reckoned with for the foreseeable future.

Rap: If you’re on the hunt for a refreshing listen filled with elegant production, smooth flows and quality substance, check out Oddisee’s album “To What End,” which dropped early this year. I just recently came across it and have been running it consistently.

Everything Black: This week Brandon Jennings penned a guest story for SLAM about his Tuff Crowd collaboration with Stephen Curry’s Curry Brand. Brandon called it “the most impactful collaboration the league has ever seen” and he made some valid points to support his claim. Be sure to give that a read and check out the collection here.

As always, here’s the official Hoops, Rap and Everything Black playlist. It’ll be updated weekly with each column. Add the playlist to your library to stay in the know, and be sure to follow SLAM on Spotify.

The post Hoops, Rap and Everything Black: Osman Bangura is the Grassroots Guru for DMV Hoops appeared first on SLAM.

I’ve always tried to do things a different way, and I’ve never been afraid of taking a risk. 

That meant going to Oak Hill, when I was already the #1 player in the country, cause I wanted to run at 6 AM every day. Learn from the best High School coach of all time, Steve Smith. I wanted to play the best schedule in the country. I wanted to break Melo’s scoring record. I wanted to put my skills on display, every night, and see if my love for the game, and that $30 orange ball, could get me millions. (And I did all that.) 

When I skipped college and went pro in Rome, I took an even bigger risk. I signed a shoe deal with a football brand that had never even launched a basketball shoe, and I took pride in that shit. I trusted Kris Stone and Kevin Plank and the vision we all had. I knew we all had that same dog mindset to get after it. 

I’m the OG at Under Armour, had their 1st ever signature shoe, and to this day I’m proud of that decision. The way I looked at making big decisions, I was always willing to take a risk, but confident about what I bring to the table. I was open minded, but knew how much work would have to go into building things from scratch. I always knew what I signed up for. And I was hyper aggressive and wanted to create some real energy.

That type of mindset was also exactly how Kevin Plank built the whole brand from his grandma’s basement. 

I always had that same entrepreneurial spirit, and you can probably see that now too, ever since I launched my own brand — Tuff Crowd. 

And now, it’s all coming full circle.

My Draft classmate, who I call Thirty, took a chance on UA a handful of years after me too.

When Stephen Curry first signed on with Under Armour, he hadn’t even made an All-Star Game yet. (He started the very next one.) His team hadn’t won a ring in like 40 years. (He won his first of four titles the year after that.) He got a signature shoe too, and now he’s on his 11th. (He won MVP in the 1, then again in the 2s.) 

So it’s only right that the two guys that laid the foundation of Under Armour Basketball are coming together now for a full collaboration collection. 

When I first launched Tuff Crowd in 2019, it was built on a simple idea. Life is a Tuff Crowd, and things don’t always go according to plan. That’s what I started to really figure out when I was by myself and playing in China that year. Stuff gets thrown your way that you didn’t think you’d ever have to deal with, but you gotta power through.

That’s where the idea of my “Hostile Territory” tagline comes from. You gotta have that dog mindset to get past the struggles, and trust me, when you have that belief that things will work out, there’s no better feeling than being on the other side. 

I’ve been through it all. I tore my Achilles and my entire life changed. Changed the whole course of where I thought my career was headed. I was on a run right before that and playing my best hoop ever. But that’s life.

Friends and fam issues came up that you couldn’t imagine. Situations where I had to fight through, that made me stronger. I spent a lot of time by myself when I was playing in China and Russia, where I could really reflect. And I have perspective, appreciation, and belief cause of all of it. I’m at peace with the path I’ve lived. 

All of that goes into Tuff Crowd. 

People might not know this, but during the NBA lockout in 2011, I actually interned at Under Armour for that whole summer in Baltimore. Kevin Plank loaned me his black Jeep to drive around. Had a whole office with my job title on it — “Curator of Cool.” 

Being in there every day, with Kris Stone, Ron Johnson and Ryan Drew, was everything. Being able to see how things work as a company, and learning about materials, fabrics, designs, comfort and different styles, it helped me get more detailed about how I wanted my product to be. 

That whole internship helped me a lot. Waking up every day, going to the office and working on projects that had to be delivered by a certain time and required an attention to detail — it was my foundation of understanding how brands and business works. 

When it comes to style, I always felt like I had an eye for stuff that was effortless, but bold. Drewsy at UA used to always joke that he could drop me off at a Goodwill for 10 minutes, give me $20 bucks to cop a whole outfit, and I’d come out fresh. 

I always just had that feel. That sauce. 

I’d be on LeagueFits every day if it was around back then. 

Since I’ve been working on my brand for the last couple years, we’ve had a ton of highlights for sure. Getting featured in NBA 2K has been killer. Doing an official collab with the Bucks was crazy. 

And I gotta give a shout out and special thanks to Jordan Clarkson. He really believed since day one that Tuff Crowd would take off, and he rocked the whole fit when he won 6th Man of the Year. You have no idea how much that support has meant to me.

Seeing players rock Tuff Crowd at championship parades, in the tunnel and at All-Star events ever since has been amazing.

But this, I’m telling you, is the dopest thing I ever worked on.

You already know Steph is locked in for life at UA, and with Curry Brand, he’s looking to really build up the style and designs of what he’s putting out.

That’s why we teamed up.

Tuff Crowd and Curry Brand — but not just a shoe, or a couple pieces. A whole collection. We’ve got three shoes off top, and almost 20 pieces of gear and accessories. And the story behind it is great. 

The idea of 11:11 is big for me. 

The bones design on the collection come straight from my neck tattoo, and it’s a spiritual reminder for me. 

It speaks to understanding who you are, what your purpose is, and alignment with your path and what God has in store for you. When you think about it, there’s no better representation of that than Stephen.

He’s a good dude at his core, he’s locked in on what matters most, and he wants to really, genuinely, help people out. No matter if you’re from Charlotte, Oakland, or anywhere else in between, he has a whole team around him that’s there to get things moving and make a difference. I’ve seen that firsthand. 

Steph has been rocking with Tuff Crowd since the start. It’s funny, cause earlier this summer, I was randomly looking up some of our original orders from TuffCrowd.com, and sure enough, Steph had bought one of the first beanies that we dropped years ago. He rocks the collar stitch tees. The dad hats. The dog hoodies too. 

And of course, that fire ass black and red chain stitch jacket that I made him after he broke the 3-Point record, with 2974 on the wrist, and patches repping his kids on the sleeve. 

But this is different. We’ve got some Curry 11s that have black Flow tech for the first time ever for Curry Brand. The Cozy we did is so fire and clean. We got a hoody that I think is the best clothing item that Curry Brand has ever made. We got tees, socks, shorts, hats and a tote bag that is my go-to, day to day joint. 

I wanted to bring an edge to this collection and show another side of Stephen, that people haven’t seen. There’s a mood the whole way through. People think Steph is just a nice guy, but trust me, he’s hostile out there on the court, with how competitive he is. He attacks everything he does in life with intent and purpose, and I wanted to celebrate that part of his game and his mentality through the designs.

It’s about the details. The story. And the idea that two of UA’s most impactful dudes early on can come together again and put out some real heat that you’ll actually want to rock. To dinner. In the tunnel. On the court. With your fam. Wherever. 

I’m big on the idea of ownership. Of running your own thing. Putting your name, your imprint and your stamp on something that you can stand behind and be proud of. That’s what Steph is doing now as President of Curry Brand, what I’m building with Tuff Crowd, and really the roots of how Under Armour took off. 

When my guy launched his own damn Curry Brand at the end of 2020 (which is killer…read that sentence again!!), one of the first things he told everyone at UA was something like, ‘Look, this isn’t even about me, we have a real opportunity here to impact the next generation.’ 

They came up with a tagline for Curry Brand to describe the idea: “Change The Game For Good” 

Ever since, I’ve been able to see that impact up close. 

I’ve been at Curry Camp the last two summers now, where Stephen is walking the top next up dudes and women through every drill, every detail and giving them some real talk about how you need to think the game at that highest level. All these boys and girls are the best at what they do — right now — but that doesn’t guarantee nothin when the lights come on, on the biggest stage, a few years from now. 

We know Steph’s story. He laughed and told all the Camp players, that when he was their age, he wouldn’t have even been invited to his own camp. That should say a lot right there. There’s work, detail and intent that you gotta pour in, to get to where we’ve gotten.

The week after his camp last year, I pulled up to a middle school in Long Beach, where him and Snoop Dogg had re-done the entire gymnasium for the LBC community. 

Man, you shoulda seen the smile on these kids’ faces. I can’t even begin to tell you how much hope that provides to all the youngins coming up, to get to see STEPH CURRY right up close, and know that he cares about them and wants to help them out.

Look — the shoes and the clothes we’re dropping are hard as hell. Like, really some of the hardest stuff I’ve ever dropped since I even started Tuff Crowd. 

But Steph’s line that he uses — “Change The Game For Good” — is real.  

That’s what makes this next sentence so amazing. 

As part of our 11:11 collection launch this week on Saturday, we’re actually taking it back to my hometown gym in LA, where I literally picked up a ball at 5 years old and learned how to hoop. Where our kids league director JK made sure we had a safe place to play. I got the trophy to prove it. 

I’m talking Rowley Park.

Back in 2011, one of the first givebacks I did with UA was donate a new outdoor court at the park. The street signs say Brandon Jennings Way and Under Armour Way. And for the whole last decade it became a spot where kids from the neighborhood could escape and just play. Just have fun. Just be kids. 

This time around, I wanted to do even more.

That inside gym in Gardena, California ain’t seen any love since I was there in elementary school. It was the same hard court I dribbled on as a kid. The same walls and everything.

And we’re about to upgrade and overhaul the whole thing. 

A whole new Rowley Park, that’s gonna last for years to come. 

It’s gonna have “TUFF CROWD” on the baselines. My dog logo at the center court. The Curry splash logo with the barbwire in the key. And on the sidelines, it says “Change The Game For Good.”

11:11 is all about timing. All about balance. All about alignment, and things working out for you when your energy is right. 

The “011” on the hardwood means it’s the 11th court that Curry Brand has helped to re-do and upgrade since 2020. That’s timing right there.

We’re gonna kick the gym re-opening off with a basketball camp for kids. And then let my hometown get a first crack at copping the whole Tuff Crowd x Curry Brand collection. It’s gonna be one of the proudest days ever. 

All of this is as full circle as it gets for me. I’m hoping it shows the power of what players can provide for the communities that built them and supported them on their journey to somewhere as amazing as the Association. And how you can continue to find new passions in life, like being a clothing designer, or even a co-host on a basketball show. 

It also shows how impact isn’t just about launching some fresh black and red shoes and some hard clothes — it’s also about leaving something real for the kids coming up next. 

The kids from Compton and Gardena that need to know they can find their path in life. They can power through any situation they’re faced with. They can channel that Tuff Crowd mindset and keep going. 

The post The Most Impactful Collaboration The League Has Ever Seen  appeared first on SLAM.

To kick off the start of the 2023-24 NBA regular season, we looked into the future and projected what this year’s rookie class (fyi: that includes SLAM 247 co-cover star Chet Holmgren, who was out last season) will accomplish. We won’t say we told you so, but….

Stay tuned. Here’s our official Rookies Most Likely To list, which appears in SLAM 247. Get your copy and cover tees here.

Towering over the competition at 7-4, Wemby is our pick for ROTY. The French phenom and SLAM 247 cover star has already established himself as one of the most exciting young players to watch in the L. Welcome to the Victor Wembanyama Experience.

Oh and by the way, shop here for copies of the mag and cover tees.

After being drafted in the second round this year and helping the Cavaliers win the Summer League championship, Emoni Bates is reminding everyone that he’s not to be slept on. 

Utilizing his height and major hops, Chet Holmgren has proved to be someone you can count on to finish a play. His grit and determination both on and off the court make him an obvious contender for our rookie rebounder.

Chet was one of the OKC cool guys to cover SLAM 247. Get your copy + cover tees here.

Playmaker Anthony Black is our top contender for averaging 10 APGs this season. With his quick passes and efficient movement, we know Black’s got his team’s back. 

It’s been 14 years since the NBA’s last rookie, Brandon Jennings, dropped 50 points in a game. If there’s anyone who can bring it back, we know it’s Scoot Henderson. Just wait on it.

One thing about Amen is that he knows how to match the energy on the court. We know he’ll be back to his bucket-getting ways once he returns from injury.

Let’s set the scene. It’s Ocober 17, 2023. The NBA regular season hasn’t even started yet, but Whitmore is playing like it’s a Game 7. He sprints down the court, leaps over Spurs’ Doug McDermott, and dunks on him. Was it an offensive foul? Perhaps. But if this is what Whitmore has in store during the preseason, we can only imagine what else he has in his bag this year.

Brandon Miller knows a thing or two about kicks.

Mr. IG photo dump himself, Amari Bailey has already been featured on LeagueFits. Expect quite a few more appearances on our feed this season…

Ever since the Gradey arrived at the 2023 NBA draft in his Wizard of Oz tribute-suit, it was clear that the Kansas-product has personality. Didn’t he just appear in the Drake’s son, Adonis’ music video? We need to hear all about it on a podcast. Speaking of which, we’ll have a new podcast show coming to you soon…

Photos via Getty Images.

The post SLAM’s Official 2023 NBA Rookies Most Likely To List: ROTY Predictions and MORE appeared first on SLAM.

Devin Booker has been named 2021-22 LeagueFits MVP, while Josh Christopher is the LeagueFits Rookie of the Year and Myles Turner has won Most Improved.

As we noted in his KICKS 24 cover story, Book has always studied fashion, sneakers and art. His straightforward fashion sense and defined aesthetic helped him earn his first LeagueFits MVP title. Clarkson, Oubre Jr., D’Angelo Russell and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Booker for First Team honors. Phoenix teammate Chris Paul joined Booker on the LeagueFits Second Team.

As for the rookies, Jaygup separated himself from an All-Rookie Team that included Barnes, Green, Jonathan Kuminga and David Duke Jr. Christopher, the first and only high school player to be posted on LeagueFits, established himself as a future MVP contender with a strong rookie showing. Between retro shirts, jean jackets and a countless variety of kicks, Christopher was able to beat out Houston teammate Jalen Green (who earned a Third Team spot) for the ROTY award.

Myles Turner earned All-LeagueFits Third Team honors as well as Most Improved. The Pacers center impressed with his one-of-one style throughout the season and truly showed out, rocking everything from lime green knitted sleeves to slick shades.

The All-LeagueFits teams as well as the MVP, ROTY and Most Improved awards were selected by a voting system that included one-third of votes from fans, one-third of votes from LF’s Survival of the Fitted podcast and votes from an exclusive panel that included former WNBA star Ty Young, designer Mamadou, fashion publicist John Guidry, NBA champ Axel Toupane, NFL star and designer Rodney McLeod, designer Caroline Bentley Noble, Los Angeles Sparks’ star Liz Cambage, fashion TikTok influencer Ayeeron, former NBA standout and designer/‘Bucks in 6’ legend Brandon Jennings, Richard aka @thehapablonde and stylist Devon Byrd.

The post Devin Booker Named LeagueFits MVP, Josh Christopher Wins ROTY appeared first on SLAM.

With countless tunnel fits to choose from, the All-LeagueFits Teams were carefully selected by a voting system that include one-third of fan votes, one-third of votes from LF’s Survival of the Fitted Podcast, and the remaining votes from an exclusive panel that includes designer Mamadou, former WNBA star Ty Young, fashion publicist John Guidry, NBA champ Axel Toupane, NFL star and designer Rodney McLeod, designer Caroline Bentley Noble, Los Angeles Sparks’ star Liz Cambage, fashion Tik Tok influencer Ayeeron, former NBA standout and designer/ ‘Bucks in 6’ legend Brandon Jennings, Richard aka @thehapablonde and stylist Devon Byrd.

Here are the official results of the First, Second and Third Teams, as well as the All-Rookie and Honorable Mentions. Stay tuned for the individual award selections.

Jordan Clarkson is truly in a class of his own. This is his third consecutive first team selection, and he was one of only two unanimous picks between the panel, fans and pod. Kelly Oubre Jr. was the first-ever LeagueFits MVP, and he makes an epic return to the first team after showing out in a major way with charlotte this past season.

As for SGA, no debates to be had this time around. He showed off his versatility this season and rightfully secured his spot on the top team. Then there’s Devin Booker, who has the most defined aesthetic in basketball. he was one of two players to be unanimously voted to the first team.

Meanwhile, D-Lo elevated his looks to another level this season, and he did it in the classiest way possible.

These five did it their way and one time for some of the tunnel’s tuffest. Russ came back to Hollywood this year, and he owned the tunnel at STAPLES for the full 82, while CP3 has yet to miss out on the LeagueFits teams since we started doing this in 2018. Jerry Lorenzo’s favorite hooper, Frank Jackson is making his return to the LF teams, and so is Kuz, who was the first-ever LF Rookie of the Year and has turned up the heat more and more. He’s never afraid to push the boundaries of self-expression and is a permanent LF mainstay.

While these awards are based on the regular season, we’ll admit that JT is the last guy we want to see on the court, or in the tunnel, during this postseason.

Jalen Green claims his spot on the third team after a heavy dosage of love from the fan vote and bringing in some unique looks his rookie season. Caris LeVert is maybe the most underrated tunnel star in the League. No more sleeping on Levert, he’s like that on the court and in the closet.

One time for Myles Turner, who’s gotta be the tallest dude to ever make a LeagueFits team standing at 6’11. We’re also not going to let y’all snub Jared Vanderbilt this year because he deserves this one, and Pj Tucker is gonna have a permanent spot on the LeagueFits teams as long as he plays in this League. True legend and true drip OG.

Nobody in the freshman class went harder post All-Star Game than Scottie Barnes. He’s surely cemented as a future LeagueFits and NBA star. Jonathan Kuminga’s been doing it his own way his entire life. No surprises he’s the same way in the tunnel.

Josh Christopher was the first (and we think the only) high school player to ever be posted on LeagueFits. This has been in the works for years. And, if you watched even five seconds of the 2021 NBA draft, you knew Jalen Green was going to be a superstar.

David Duke Jr held nothing back with his bold play on the court and in the tunnel his rookie campaign. The undrafted rook surpassed every expectation that was set, and it’s just the beginning.

Consistency matters in a season that’s 82-plus games long and Nickeil Alexander-Walker routinely delivered. Then we’ve got the LF fan favorite, Tyler Herro, who burst onto the scene as our rookie of the year a few years back and has kept the bar high since.

Jordan Poole might be from the midwest, but he embraced the laid-back California style to the fullest this year, while Thanasis Antetokounmpo used the Milwaukee winters as the perfect reason to consistently layer up, earning his first-ever LeagueFits award.

James Harden might be an OG in the tunnel, but he’s been dressing since before LF was even an idea. Tristan Thompson played in a few cities this year, and he dressed up in all of them. He earns LeagueFits awards honors for the second straight season.

And last but definitely not least, we confirmed on the Survival of the Fitted Pod that Gary Trent Jr. had the fit of the year. It’s only right he gets an LF awards nod.

The post The 2021-22 All-LeagueFits Teams Awards Results appeared first on SLAM.

As the League celebrates it’s 75th anniversary, there’s quite a few Top 75 lists out there already. In fact, we’ve got quite a few of our own, from SLAM’s Top 75 Players of All Time Special Issue to most recently our Top 75 NBA Teams of All Time (shop here). We could’ve easily left it at that, but after checking out Tracy McGrady’s new Ones Basketball 1-on-1 League, we started thinking about the best 1-on-1 NBA players of all time.

So, we decided to have some fun with it and put together a bold list, categorized based on height, of all of the names that should be included in that conversation.

6-3 AND BELOW

1. Allen Iverson
A one-man revolution where the cross was just the beginning. He’s the master mixer on
our list for a reason.

2. Kyrie Irving
Hang it in the Louvre. KAI’s game is entirely its own art form.

3. Stephen Curry
The greatest shooter of all time needs just a sliver of space to make you pay, all while
staring down the crowd as the ball drops through the net. Uncanny.

4. Derrick Rose
Athleticism that was unparalleled and the nonexistence of fear had D. Rose bullying the
League as the youngest MVP ever.

5. Chris Paul
A mid range savant. A floor general. A Point God.

6. Gilbert Arenas
Agent Zero was lethal, tactical and surgical in leaving defenders guessing what portion
of the bag was about to be unleashed.

7. Damian Lillard
You can pick him up, but what comes next is entirely on you.

8. Russell Westbrook
Shot out of a cannon, if No. 0 is barrelling down the court, you best clear the runway.

9. Isiah Thomas
Lower to the ground just meant more ways to attack as the handle powered the
creativity that No. 11 enacted on his way to snagging two.

10. Jerry West
The Logo was constantly carving up defenses to drop buckets and dimes left and right.

11. Ja Morant
The ascension has been recognized. Call 12, and he’s always gonna answer.

12.Baron Davis
A blend of everything. Baron gave birth to the uber athletic displays of guard play that
we’ve become enthralled with over the years.

13. Trae Young
There’s a new villain in town and he’ll take your heart and your team’s straight to the
offseason.

14. Tiny Archibald
Ain’t nothing tiny about this man’s game. Nothing.

15. Stephon Marbury
The inspiration behind one of the greatest hoops flicks of all time attacked the game entirely on his own terms.

16. Tim Hardaway Sr
Having a killer crossover named after you is a mic drop moment.

17. CJ McCollum
The slipperiest shooting guard in the L. Shaking and baking is his M.O

18. Deron Williams
D Will mastered his own pace to the game. Separation was key and once he created it, you might as well just head back down for O.

19. Donovan Mitchell
Picking up this man is like taking a trip throughout the Spida-Verse, sprawling, spinning and overstimulated with flashes of colorful creativity and blinding moves.

20. Jrue Holiday
Always reliable, always locked in, always ready to pull it in your eye. Second-guessing is the greatest compliment a hooper can recognize and Jrue sees it often.

21. Steve Francis
Constantly sending defenders stumbling, Steve Francis doesn’t often get his due as one of the shiftiest guards to ever step on the hardwood.

22. Tony Parker
Some speed is built, some is gifted. TP’s froze defenders in a picture frame as he weaved around the paint for dimes and buckets.

23. Kemba Walker
We know y’all remember THE step back. Nuff said.

24. Chauncey Billups
Decidedly different. Big guard, big body, big buckets.

25. John Wall
Revolutionary athleticism instilled John Wall as the next box-office point guard. Go do your Google searches and watch his mixtapes to see what we’re seeing.

26. Lou Williams
Lou Williams is too smooth with it: a certified bucket, 3x NBA Sixth Man Player of the Year and a derserver of the utmost respect. 

27. Monta Ellis
Those 360 layups were just a regular thing for Monta Ellis. That’s what type of time he was on. 

28. Nick Van Exel
Nick Van Exel was waaaaaay too quick with it, from the crossovers to the high-flying drives to the lane to those insane dishes and dimes.

29. Jamal Murray
We’ve already told you this before: there’s music in Jamal Murray’s game. Try not to get lost in the melody, though, because he will drop 50 on you. Again and again.

30. Brandon Jennings
Dropping 55 points as a rookie is quite the statement, but then again, Brandon Jennings was never one to shy away from any moment. His game was too electric.

6-4 TO 6-8 

1. Michael Jordan
   The greatest. Put MJ in any situation, matchup or moment and you already know the outcome. Nothing more needs to be said.

2. Kobe Bryant
   He was constantly ascending past the depths of what competing truly meant. He knew your next move before you’d even had a chance to formulate the thought.

3. Tracy McGrady
   Scoring 13 points in 33 seconds is wild, but that’s just what T-Mac was about. One of the most complete scorers in the history of the Association.

4. Carmelo Anthony
   The fadeaway. The jab step. The spot-up jump shot, and his signature “washing machine” spin move. Carmelo Anthony remains one of the game’s most unstoppable scorers of all time. 

5. Kawhi Leonard
   Best believe, any matchup against the Klaw will result in him getting the last laugh. Trying to defend him in a 1v1? Now that’s pure comedy. 

6. Dwyane Wade
   The nickname was fitting: the Flash was one of most elite and efficient shooting guards who attacked the basket with an explosiveness that couldn’t possibly be contained. 

7. James Harden
   Equipped with a signature-move so iconic, a few names on this list have tried it out, the Beard is truly lethal with the rock in his hands.

8. Julius Erving
   A wizard who truly transcended the game. Every move was a symphony of basketball played at its finest. 

9. Charles Barkley
   A relentlessly physical rebounder with an attitude to match, Sir Charles was a force to be reckoned with.

10. Devin Booker
    With the words “Be Legendary” tattooed on his forearm, D-Book has continued to transcend his game towards just that no matter if he’s pullin’ up from midrange or hitting clutch shots from deep. 

11. Scottie Pippen
    One of the game’s greats could really do it all, from dishing out dimes and orchestrating an offense to snagging boards and holding it down on the defensive end. Versatility at it’s finest.  

12. Paul George
    PG’s all-around game is just one of the many things that define his greatness. His explosiveness and ability to create his own shot is another.

13. Paul Pierce
    The Truth can be hard for many to accept, but his dominance was nothing but pure facts. Shaquille O’Neal had a thing for nicknames, and when Paul Pierce dropped 42 on the Lakers in ’01, Shaq went over to the Boston Herald’s Steve Bulpett and told him to write this down: “My name is Shaquille O’Neal and Paul Pierce is the truth. Quote me on that and don’t take nothing out.” Enough said.

14. DeMar DeRozan
    The King of the Fourth is a true revolutionary when it comes to the art of the midrange.

15. Jimmy Butler
    They call him Jimmy Buckets for a reason. That’s exactly what you’re gonna get.

16. Jayson Tatum
    JT moves different out there on the parquet floor, from the lethal step back and sidestep threes to the sheer dominance every time the rock touches his hands. That’s what happens when you’re mentored by none other than the Mamba.

17. Vince Carter
    Once Vince Carter got within eyesight of that line, it was over before it had even begun.

18. Zion Williamson
    You can’t be contained when the limits never existed. The same goes in the paint, or anywhere on the floor, when it comes to Zion Williamson. 

19. Penny Hardaway
    One of the greatest guards ever. That spin fake into a stepback, move? Pure magic.

20. Luka Doncic
    Luka plays at his own pace while completely dominating in the process. Different.

21. Dominique Wilkins
    With legs like propellers and arms that could absorb contact, Nique had underrated shot-making ability that went along with his otherworldly athleticism. 

22. Grant Hill 
    Versatility in a human being. Grant Hill was a threat to score from all three levels.

23. Elgin Baylor
    Surrender the skies to Elgin Baylor. Aerially gifted with merciless finishes at the rim.

24. George Gervin
    Smooth, refined, patient, disciplined and measured. Ice’s game was where fundamental met flash.

25. Alex English
    Nobody scored more points in the 1980s than Alex English. Nobody.

26. Joe Johnson
    His nickname is Iso Joe. Nothing more needs to be said.

27. Bradley Beal
    Bradley Beal technically has a perfect jumpshot. Pair that exquisite form with his handles and the result is a scoring machine.

28. Klay Thompson
    One of the best shooters ever is also a big body that precisely clamps players of all heights and weights.

29. Gary Payton
    Possibly the best perimeter defender to ever play, Gary Payton could also get to the tin whenever he wanted.

30. Jamal Crawford
    Jamal Crawford is creativity unleashed through instinct and intellect.

6-9 AND UP

1. Shaquille O’Neal
   The most physically dominant player ever. Realistically, there’s nobody stopping the Diesel.

2. Kevin Durant
   Size, skills, smarts. There have been very few other players that are more offensively complete than Kevin Durant.

3. LeBron James
   The case can be made that LeBron James is the best player ever. Full stop.

4. Giannis Antetokounmpo
   Try guarding Giannis Antetokounmpo without any help defense. Get the picture?

5. Kevin Garnett
   The only part of Kevin Garnett’s game that outshined his skills on both sides of the ball was his competitiveness, a trait that’s gone nearly unmatched throughout history.

6. Hakeem Olajuwon
   Possibly the best two-way center ever, who dominated with equal doses of agility and nimbleness, power and force.

7. David Robinson
   Dunks and jumpers with the left, blocks and steals with both of his hands and a compressed trampoline in his right leg, David Robinson’s basketball IQ was just as ridiculous as his athletic capabilities.

8. Karl Malone
   Brute strength. Left side of the post to the right side of the hoop every single time. Never could be stopped.

9. Wilt Chamberlain
   Scored 100 points in a game, averaged 50 points for a season and if blocks and steals were tallied when he played, Wilt Chamberlain’s mythic status would be even greater than it already is.

10. Joel Embiid
    Joel Embiid is a guard stuck inside a 7-2, 280-pound body.

11. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
    The author of the game’s most unstoppable shot, its leading scorer and a shot-blocking terror.

12. Larry Bird
    Larry Bird was so good at scoring that he would tell bigger, stronger and more athletic defenders exactly what he planned to do with the ball and they still couldn’t contain him.

13. Anthony Davis
    Middies, catch-and-shoot threes, barrels to the rim, pick-and-roll ball containment, weakside shot-blocking and passing lane invader properly describes Anthony Davis.  

14. Moses Malone
    Quite possibly the most underrated great in NBA history, Moses Malone was unstoppable from the block and even if he did miss, he’d consume offensive rebounds with such ferocity that the ensuing putbacks would be uncontested.

15. Dirk Nowitzki
    It’s real when a singular shot is credited to a player. Basketball now has the one-legged fadeaway thanks to Dirk Nowitzki.

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The post SLAM’s Official Top 75 Greatest 1-on-1 NBA Players of All Time List appeared first on SLAM.

In a Wednesday 123-110 loss to the League-leading Warriors (10-1), the budding T-Wolves star exploded for a career-high 48 points, five boards, five helpers, and two steals on 16-27 shooting from the field and 7-13 from beyond the arc.

The monster performance made Ant-Man the third-youngest player to register a 45-5-5 game since Brandon Jennings and LeBron James accomplished the feat.

“I’m not mad at tonight,” Edwards told the Star Tribune. “Forget the points, just how we was down 20, the way that we fought as a team, overall, I loved that. That gave me energy to keep going. I was tired, man. I was exhausted.”

Edwards joined another exclusive list with his third career 40-point game before turning 21-years-old. The only players who have reached the mark more are Luka Doncic and Kevin Durant, who have one more such, and James, who has five more.

Big night for @theantedwards_

The only players with more 40-point games before turning 21 are LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Kevin Durant. pic.twitter.com/0NU8fptwSp

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) November 11, 2021

The 48-point night is also the sixth highest single-game effort in franchise history behind Karl-Anthony Towns (56), Mo Williams (52), Kevin Love and Corey Brewer (51 points apiece), and Derrick Rose (50)

The Timberwolves will look to bounce back Friday against the Lakers (7-5)

The post Anthony Edwards Continues to Pile the Accolades with 48 Point Night appeared first on SLAM.

Jennings recently spoke to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, reminiscing on what could have been if he would have stayed healthy. 

“I would’ve been an All-Star for sure if I didn’t tear my Achilles,” said Jennings.

Jennings tore his Achilles in 2015, which is one of the most difficult injuries to return from at full strength. 

He was a full-time starter before that injury, but only started in 20 of 143 games following his recovery. 

Throughout his nine year NBA career, Jennings notched 555 career games. During that time, he averaged. 14.1 points and 3.1 assists per game while shooting 34.5 percent from deep. 

Had he been able to stay healthy, anything could have happened. A guy who could score 20 on any given night, he was yet another player that could have accomplished even greater things if it weren’t for injuries. 

The post Brandon Jennings: ‘I Would’ve Been An All-Star If I Didn’t Tear My Achilles’ appeared first on SLAM.

I remember getting that text in 2018, shortly after I came back to the Bucks for a brief time. I was hosting a team party at my house in Los Angeles and invited everybody on the squad. And Giannis, who’s a star by then, hits me up to ask if it’s OK if he comes through. Giannis! I’m like, “Hell yeah! Of course!”

That’s just who Giannis is. He’s one of the humblest people I’ve ever met. You can just tell he’s very grateful for everything. When he was walking out of my house after the party ended, he was like, Yo, BJ! Crazy party. Crazyyy party! It’s little moments like that. Giannis being Giannis. 

SLAM 234 featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo is available now!

He and I connected a bit during that 2017-18 season. After I left the Bucks and he became an MVP, he showed up to the Drew League in L.A. when I was hooping. He watched the game and we talked for a bit. I always wanted to respect his peace but was tuned in and rooting for him along the way. He was one of the best players in the League by 2018 but was still coming into his own as a leader. I think these last couple of years he’s probably become more vocal than he was. I mean, we all saw in the playoffs, when he was in the huddle screaming at his teammates to motivate them and stuff like that. He wasn’t really like that when I was there, but that’s just growth. That’s just becoming more comfortable. To me, he was always trying to learn and get better. Always. His work ethic really stood out to me. He was showing up to the gym early and would be the last person to leave. Everything was consistent. That’s one thing I’ve always admired about him—that consistency.

From day one, even when we weren’t teammates [Giannis’ rookie season in Milwaukee was the first season Brandon played for Detroit after four seasons with the Bucks.—Ed.], I could tell Giannis had potential. I remember playing against him during his first few years when I was with the Pistons. Learning about his history and how long he had been playing ball, I knew he had a chance to be great. I have to mention, though, because I was re-watching old highlights recently—I was reminded of this play from my time in Detroit. I stole the ball, had a breakaway and dunked it when Giannis was trying to block it. Then I looked back at him. So yeah, that was my one dunk on the Greek Freak. I’ll take it. 

Now that same guy—the one who once texted me for permission to come to my party—just brought a championship to the city of Milwaukee. Not just that, but in my opinion, he’s become the best player in the world. A two-time MVP. The 2020 Defensive Player of the Year. 

An NBA Champion.

The 2021 Finals MVP. 

I was very grateful for the opportunity to witness those latest accomplishments in person. Being at Game 6—it was indescribable. The emotions, the excitement, the energy, 65,000 people outside. It was the first time I had been to the new arena. I had never seen the city that turnt. Going to the game, I was looking at all the Giannis jerseys and joking with my girl, like, “Wow, those used to be my jerseys.” It was surreal.

Truth is—those courtside seats were supposed to be for Kanye. Two hours before tipoff, he told them he couldn’t make it, so they ended up giving them to me. I was just, like, “Yo, it’s lit!” I had been stuck at home because of COVID and working hard on my brand, Tuff Crowd, so that was my first NBA game all year. I was just soaking up the moment—sitting next to Dave Chappelle, connecting with the fans, and, of course, cheering for the squad. 

The atmosphere in that arena was insane. It really took me back. It brought back some incredible memories. While I was sitting there, in my mind, I thought about my 55-point night as a rookie against Golden State. I thought about my game-winning three against Cleveland. I thought about us being down 0-2 against Atlanta, returning to the Bradley Center and winning Games 3 and 4. I thought about those special times when the city was alive.

When I first came to Milwaukee in 2009, the Bucks hadn’t made the playoffs for three straight seasons. I came in with a lot of fire because I didn’t get to play a lot the year before when I was in Italy. I had a lot to prove entering the League. I had a chip on my shoulder. And I was talking crazy. I don’t know if Milwaukee knew what they were getting with me. I just know that those first handful of games when I came out, was rocking with the crowd and had all those different hairstyles—I just felt like an early trendsetter. It felt like the start of a new era in Milwaukee. 

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And I felt a strong bond with the city immediately. What’s crazy is, during my first few seasons, I didn’t even go back to my hometown in Los Angeles. I stayed in Milwaukee for the summer and everything. I was living there all throughout the year, just being around the city and getting involved in the community. My years in Milwaukee were about more than just basketball. The fans were so loyal. We made the playoffs twice while I was there, so I had a pretty good four-year run before being traded to the Pistons. I was able to leave a little mark. And to see how the culture has continued to grow—you know, that “Bucks in 6” culture. It’s amazing. What a time to be alive right now.

To me, “Bucks in 6” is not just an expression—it’s a mindset. It defines the city of Milwaukee. It’s an approach to battle. The harder you work during peace, the less you bleed during war. When you’re battling and you’re down, no matter what, you gotta keep fighting and keep pushing through that wall. Because you just never know. When I said it back in the day, people thought I was crazy. We were the No. 8 seed playing LeBron James and the Heat—the best team in the world. The future champs. But I had this mindset of just keep fighting. That’s that blue-collar, Milwaukee mindset. Obviously, you’re not going to say you’re going to lose at anything in life. We’re always trying to win. Sometimes it’s going to be harder, if we’re being realistic. But I’m not going to say we’re going to lose. Ever.

This Bucks squad had that mindset this season. And now they’re champions. The parade—man, that was ridiculous. I initially thought I was getting on the team bus. They were like, “Nah, we got you your own car.” So in my head, I’m like, “Oh, shit! Okay, let’s do this.” I could hear the “Bucks in 6” chants from the crowd. We hit that first corner and someone tossed me my first beer. I drank it and chucked it. The fans were just going nuts. By the time we got toward downtown, I was already, like, 10 beers in. Everybody who was tailgating and celebrating just kept giving me beers. And I kept drinking them and kept chucking them. I almost threw up, like, twice to be honest. It’s like, “Bro, I’m on my 15th one. I’m tired.” By the time we got to the speeches, I had drunk about 20 beers. I was done. 

But overall, I had an amazing time. I was so thankful to be a part of that celebration with the city, and to have the fans embrace me. Partying with PJ Tucker was wild, too. After the parade, we were getting drunk at some water park bar. It was unreal, enjoying those moments with the entire team. Hopefully I can develop an even stronger connection to the organization going forward. My dream is to become creative director, so we’ll see…

I also have to shout out Giannis for repping Tuff Crowd at the parade. That was really big for me given how hard I’ve been working on the brand. I actually gave that stuff to Giannis before Game 6. I gave him, PJ Tucker and Jrue Holiday a little package. But Giannis putting it on for that day, for the championship celebration, that’s history. That meant a lot to me and shows the type of respect that he has for me. And I got the same for him. 

For Giannis, I got one message: Just keep going. Keep God first. And I’ll say it again—the harder you work during peace, the less you bleed during war. Stay on that path. And become more than basketball. 

Lastly, to the faithful Bucks nation: 50 years. The drought is over. This is what you waited on. This is what you wanted. Now it’s time to take that same energy and keep bringing it every year. Because once you’re a champion, you’re forever a champion. You can’t turn down now.

It’s still, and always will be, Bucks in 6. 

SLAM 234 is available now in these exclusive Gold and Black Metal Editions.

Photos via Getty Images.

The post Brandon Jennings on Giannis’ Rise, the 2021 Championship and Being a Part of History appeared first on SLAM.

Porter Jr. rewrote the record books replacing LeBron James as the youngest player to score 50 points while attaining double figures in assists. His career night helped the Houston Rockets snap a five-game losing streak, upsetting the playoff-bound Milwaukee Bucks 143-136.

50 PTS (career high)
11 AST
9 3PM (career high)
@HoustonRockets W@Kevinporterjr had himself a night! pic.twitter.com/l0kMbPNNuJ

— NBA (@NBA) April 30, 2021

The 20-year-old Porter passed his original career-best of 30 points in the second half (32), while carrying the offensive load with 17 in the fourth quarter. KPJ joined a very short list consisting of Brandon Jennings, Devin Booker and James as the only players to score at least 50 points in an NBA game before the age of 21.

Porter Jr. talked about his night after the game:

“After I saw the third 3 go down, I knew it was going to be a special night,” Porter says, per ESPN. “It was all up to me. I just stayed aggressive, and it was a good night.”

The historical performance followed a $50,000 fine a day prior by the NBA for violating its COVID-19 health and safety protocols for attending a club on April 19th with teammate Sterling Brown.

The NBA’s rules state that NBA players cannot attend indoor social gatherings of 15 or more people in bars or similar establishments. Porter was placed in NBA’s Health and Safety protocol causing him to miss three games.

The post Kevin Porter Jr. Passes LeBron As Youngest To Score 50 Points, 10 Assists appeared first on SLAM.

On the afternoon of Wednesday, July 29, 14-year-old basketball phenom Semaj Miller was gunned down in South Los Angeles. Police believe that a gang member carried out the shooting, but the suspect remains un-captured. Here, Master P—or “Coach P,” as he’s known in the LA community—reflects on Semaj’s death and how it’s part of a cycle of violence that must end. – Ed.

Semaj Miller was a 14-year-old kid that could’ve been an NBA superstar, but we’ll never get a chance to know that.

He was 6-7, wore a size 16 shoe and was a phenom on the court. He played for the L.A. City Wildcats, which is the same AAU team that James Harden played for. Imagine if James Harden had died at 14—we would’ve never gotten the chance to see his greatness. That’s my main message to the world. What if Kawhi Leonard or LeBron James died at 14? DeMar DeRozan is from the same community and went to the same high school that Semaj was heading to. What if he died at 14?

Semaj is gone because of senseless gun violence. This is happening every day to kids. That’s why I say, “Our Kids Matter.” It’s OKM. Let the kids grow. We need to be saving them. They are the future.

I’ve been back in this L.A. community for over 22 years. I helped raise DeMar DeRozan here. My program, the P Miller Ballers, has been around this area for a long time. Brandon Jennings came through my program. It’s just heartbreaking because my kids play in the same leagues that Semaj did. We were always playing against each other. The difference is that with my kids, they get a chance to go home safely. These other guys got to walk through these neighborhoods and face this violence. Every kid doesn’t have that security. I didn’t have that during my childhood. I grew up in an environment like this—that’s why I’m here now. All these kids call me Coach P. They don’t call me Master P, they call me Coach P, because they know I care about them and I’m passionate about helping them.

Truthfully, this could have been any kid. To see these teenagers get caught up in the streets, it’s devastating. Our community is killing us. That’s what we have to change. Semaj lost his life in part because all the gyms are closed. His coach was complaining about how there’s nowhere for the kids to go play. Now they have to go to the playgrounds, and you got gangs and everything else that exists in the outside environment. Normally you have a safe haven when the gyms are open. But with the doors closed, the kids are targets.

Having a talented kid like this lose his life, I think people are starting to pay more attention. We, in the community, have to come together. The entire world has to come together, because kids are dying in these types of places in New York, Illinois, Texas, Louisiana, everywhere. This is not just happening in Los Angeles. This is happening all over and it needs to stop.

So what can we do? For right now, for Semaj, we have to help his family get out of these circumstances. There’s a GoFundMe page where you can donate; it’s raised nearly $10,000 so far. We can also help to close this case. The person that killed Semaj is still walking the streets now. We want justice.

I think for other kids across the world, we have to, as parents and people in the community, preserve the youth. We have to teach kids the importance of education. We have to spend more time with them. We have to walk our kids home. We have to give them rides. We have to stop being too busy for them. Because we’re going to lose them to the streets.

You have to imagine right now, at that age, kids are experimenting. They’re trying to figure out what they want to do. Maybe they need money or this and that. By us spending time with them, we’ll be able to take away the negative people that are going to try to come into their lives.

Also, I think for the NBA—don’t just wait until players get to that level. Let’s do some crime prevention with all the money that’s being made. And the players themselves, we need to hold ourselves accountable and not just wait on the League to do this. We can help save these innocent kids in the community. Use that money for a good cause. A lot of players have AAU programs. Give back to it. It could be as simple as giving a kid some shoes and that may keep the kid off the streets, as opposed to him trying to hustle for it. Even if some pro athletes could start FaceTiming these kids and motivating them, that would make a difference.

I realize that some people have moved on and when it comes down to stuff like this, nobody wants to come back to a neighborhood like this. But this is where we all come from. I know the guys in the NBA bubble can’t leave, but they can FaceTime a couple of these young players. Because a couple of these young players are going to be them in the future. Let’s not forget that. Let’s figure out how to educate these kids and even teach them how to duck and dodge some of this negativity, how to use those same survival skills to make it. Some people had great teams around them, great people around them that were protectors. We need to be those teams and those people for the next generation.

Anybody in college basketball, in the pros, we should be embracing this story. This could’ve been any one of us. We have to bring awareness to it. LeBron has a 14-year-old. My son Mercy is 14. We have to have compassion for this. A 14-year-old kid who had a promising future had no reason to die like this, to be gone so soon.

It’s about preserving our future, not waiting until it’s too late. So I’ll say it again. OKM. Our Kids Matter.

—

As told to Alex Squadron.

Photos via Master P.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO “JUSTICE FOR SEMAJ MILLER”

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Peep the eldest O’Neal’s HS highlights.

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We spent an afternoon with the top seniors—James Wiseman, Vernon Carey Jr, Jaden McDaniels, Cole Anthony and Anthony Edwards—for our annual photo shoot. Get to know the future of the game below.

JAMES WISEMAN

7-0, Center, Memphis (TN) East HS, attending Memphis

Slated to reunite with his former HS coach Penny Hardaway—with whom he won a state HS championship just last year—at the University of Memphis this fall, the Gatorade and Morgan Wootten National Player of the Year led the Mustangs to a 25-9 record and a trip to the state Class-AAA championship game once again. He averaged over 25 points, 14 rebounds and 5 blocks per game as a senior.

VERNON CAREY JR.

6-10, Center, Fort Lauderdale (FL) NSU University School, attending Duke

The future Blue Devil led the Sharks to consecutive Class 5A state championships the past two years, including a 27-5 record this season, where he averaged 21.1 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game. His elite résumé goes beyond just his high school season accomplishments, having claimed two gold medals with Team USA, including earning tournament MVP at the 2017 FIBA Americas U16 championship.

JADEN MCDANIELS

6-10, Power Forward, Federal Way (WA) Federal Way HS, college Uncommitted

The Seattle metropolitan area native helped lead the Eagles to a 26-3 record and a third-place finish in the Class 4A state tourney this past season. McDaniels averaged 23.2 points, 10.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.1 steals per game. He was subsequently named the Class 4A Player of the Year, the North Puget Sound League MVP and a two-time First-Team All-State honoree.

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COLE ANTHONY

6-3, Point Guard, Mouth of Wilson (VA) Oak Hill Academy, attending North Carolina

A New York City native, Anthony transferred to legendary national prep powerhouse Oak Hill for his senior year. Although the Virginia program has seen the likes of Jerry Stackhouse, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Durant, Rajon Rondo, Brandon Jennings and Josh Smith don its uniforms over the years, Anthony became the first player in school history to average a triple-double (19.0 points, 10.5 assists, and 10.1 rebounds) in the regular season.

ANTHONY EDWARDS

6-5, Shooting Guard, Atlanta (GA) Holy Spirit Prep, attending Georgia

On February 11, Anthony Edwards shocked the college world when he committed to the Georgia Bulldogs over blue blood Kentucky. According to ESPN’s recruiting database, he became the highest ranked high school prospect to ever commit to the Athens school as well as the first five-star prospect to ever choose the program. Having reclassified up from the Class of 2020 to 2019 last November, he averaged 20.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists last summer in AAU ball.

—

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Portraits by Ryan Young

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These 12 guys didn’t go to college, instead jumping straight to the pros back in the days when such a move was fair game.

But…imagine if they did?

—

LeBron James, Ohio State

Cal, UNC and Duke dreamed of signing the young king, but all signs are that he would’ve repped his home-state Buckeyes. They really could’ve used him, too: that ’03-04 OSU squad finished just 14-16. It seems safe to say the kid from Akron would’ve been worth a few more wins.

Moses Malone, Maryland

Stories of Malone’s recruitment are legendary, as dozens of coaches went all out to sign the 6-10 big man from Virginia. Maryland’s Lefty Driesell won that battle but ultimately lost the war: Instead of helping Driesell build the “UCLA of the East,” Malone made history by signing a seven-figure rookie contract with the ABA’s Utah Stars.

Tracy McGrady, Kentucky

It would’ve been fascinating to see how T-Mac fit in with the Wildcats in ’97-98, when Tubby Smith’s star-free squad (five players averaged between 9-14 ppg) battled its way to the national title. Could the future seven-time All-Star have shared the ball with Kentucky’s leading scorer that year, the one and only Jeff Sheppard?

Dwight Howard, North Carolina

With a roster featuring six future NBA players, including double-double machine Sean May in the middle, the ’04-05 Tar Heels went 33-4 en route to the national championship. Needless to say, they really didn’t need the 6-11 big man from Atlanta. But we’re guessing Roy Williams would’ve found some minutes for him regardless.

Amar’e Stoudemire, Memphis

A lot of dominos would’ve had to fall, but the Tigers could’ve gone into the ’02-03 season with Amar’e and sophomore Dajuan Wagner (who averaged 21.2 ppg at Memphis the year before), along with a handful of other future NBA players. Instead, both Juanny and Amar’e were top-10 picks in the ’02 Draft, and Memphis was a first-round NCAA knockout in ’03.

Kevin Garnett, Michigan

For years, KG hinted that he would’ve played his college ball at Maryland, replacing outgoing national POY Joe Smith in the role of superstar forward. But last year, he revealed he’d really planned to be a Wolverine. The reason? As he said on his Area 21 show, “I loved Chris Webber.” Solid logic.

JR Smith, North Carolina

Speaking of the ’04-05 Tar Heels: Just how much better might that ’04-05 UNC team have been with a freshman JR running alongside classmate Marvin Williams and the veteran backcourt of Raymond Felton and Rashad McCants? Because Smith blew up in the final months of his high school career, we never got a chance to find out.

Kobe Bryant, Duke

His game always mimicked Jordan’s, so it was natural that people assumed Kobe would’ve followed Mike’s path to Chapel Hill. Instead, Bryant recently confirmed he would’ve taken his talents to Durham. He did eventually end up playing for Coach K, winning Olympic gold under Krzyzewski’s guidance in 2008 and 2012. 

Sebastian Telfair, Louisville

NBA stardom proved elusive for Bassy, making it all the more intriguing to imagine what the NYC high school legend would’ve done in the college ranks. The Cardinals went 20-10 without him in ’03-04; a year later, Louisville was a Final Four team. Telfair went on to spend a decade in the League.

Shaun Livingston, Duke

Before he was a super-sub for the Warriors and master of the mid-range pull-up, Livingston was a prep PG with ridiculous handles. Duke was a Sweet 16 team without him in ’04-05, but with Livingston in the same backcourt as J.J. Redick and four other NBA-bound players, the Dukies would’ve been title contenders.

Brandon Jennings, Arizona

Compton’s finest initially planned on staying home at USC, then committed to the Wildcats before blazing a trail to play pro ball in Italy. The ’Cats could’ve used him: Arizona’s ’08-09 squad featured a pair of NBA-bound bigs, but a lack of elite guard play led to a subpar 21-14 finish.

Lou Williams, Georgia

Few guys on this list had the potential to transform a program the way Williams did with home-state UGA. The dynamic lead guard, who earned Naismith Prep POY honors as a senior, could have singlehandedly lifted a mediocre Bulldogs squad to relevance in ’05-06. Instead, he averaged 1.9 ppg as a reserve rookie guard in Philly.

—

GRAB YOUR COPY OF SLAM PRESENTS THE GREATEST COLLEGE PLAYERS OF ALL TIME.

Ryan Jones is a Contributing Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter at @thefarmerjones.

Graphics by Andy Han.

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On most nights, long after practice has ended, you’ll find Kemba Walker back in the Hornets’ training facility. He’ll return when it’s dark outside to get additional shots up, and refuses to let members of the team staff rebound for him.

Go help someone else, he’ll say. I got a routine.

It’s the same one that Hall of Famer Steve Nash used to follow. Kemba starts close to the basket and works his way back, finishing beyond the arc. He’s extra focused so he won’t have to chase misses all over the gym.

“I make 20 from corner to corner. I go to both wings, then I go to both elbows,” he explains. “Depending on what I want to work on, I make a couple moves to floaters, do one-on-one moves and try to end it off with threes—off-the-dribble or rolling the ball out to myself, trying to imitate spot ups as well.”

He’s pointing out the locations on the floor as he speaks, tracing the movements that have become seared in his brain. That this gym is the site of our cover shoot is especially fitting, given how much of his personal time Walker spends here. It’s a Monday morning in early December and Charlotte is recovering from a rare winter storm. By now, most of the snow has melted into puddles of brown slush. Restaurants and stores in the downtown area are finally re-opening. The periodic sounds of leaf blowers clearing debris and trains passing by suggest a return to normalcy.

And Walker is back in the gym, where he begins to reminisce on the path that brought him from the Soundview Houses of the Bronx to this city in the South. It’s hard for him to fathom, but a kid who once dreamed of making it to the NBA is now an all-time franchise leading scorer. Only a few days prior, he stood at the free-throw line on the Spectrum Center court as chants of “MVP” rained down.

Walker struggles to find the words to describe what it means to him.

Incredible. Crazy. Unbelievable. Special.

He’s become one of the best guards in the world and will be the face of the upcoming All-Star Weekend in Charlotte. As of this writing, he’s averaging 24.7 points and 5.6 assists per game and ranks fifth in the NBA in total three-pointers made. The 60-piece he hung on the 76ers in November is the second highest mark for any player this season, and he’s dropped 35 or more on seven different occasions. At this point, he makes it look easy.

But it hasn’t always been this way.

Thinking back on all those who doubted this was possible, Walker can’t help but have a deeper appreciation for the journey.

“I never really cared what other people said,” he tells us. “I was always just like, why?”

Like why did they bother to criticize you?

“Nah—like why can’t I do this stuff they’re saying I can’t do?”

—

Before basketball came around, Kemba Walker was a dancer. In the fifth grade, he even got a chance to perform at the famous Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY.

“We had a teacher who fed us routines and stuff like that,” Walker says. “We just had to memorize it and go out there and do it.”

His father, Paul, believes this background helped to shape his game. Kemba is generously listed at 6-1 and relies heavily on his shiftiness, creativity and footwork. He studied clips of Tim Hardaway Sr as a kid, taking note of how the undersized guard asserted himself and striving to emulate his killer crossover.

The handle, of course, is one way in which Walker compensates for his lack of height. The mentality is another. Everything he gets, he grinds for. He has a silent, fiercely competitive edge that’s been present forever. His AAU team, the New York Gauchos, once traveled all the way to Arizona, where Kemba would face off against the No. 1 high school prospect in the country: Brandon Jennings.

At that time, Walker had been establishing himself as one of the premier guards in his class as well, flourishing against other highly-ranked guys such as Iman Shumpert, Tyreke Evans and Jrue Holiday. He hadn’t gotten the opportunity, however, to take on Jennings. The Gauchos traveled more than 2,000 miles to Tucson and were the only East coast squad to enter the Cactus Classic tournament, knowing it was likely that Walker would get his chance against the best.

“Kemba is a real humble dude, so he’s not going to say, Oh, I want to play this guy. I want to play that guy,” explains Dorvell Carter, a teammate on the Gauchos who’s still close to Walker. “But deep down inside, we know Kemba. Everybody knew he wanted that matchup.”

Jennings and Walker, both rising seniors, eventually squared off in the championship. Kemba delivered with 24 points to lead the Gauchos to a win over Belmont Shore—a team that also featured future NBA All-Star DeMar DeRozan—and was named MVP.

Scouts in attendance were taken aback. Dorvell and the rest of the Gauchos weren’t. They knew—Walker was built for this stuff.

Fast forward a decade and he’s got the same cold-blooded demeanor. You saw it at UConn and you’re seeing it in the NBA. He’s never afraid of the big moments and will happily go to war against dudes several inches taller. He’s currently averaging the most points in clutch scenarios (the final five minutes of tight games) in the entire League.

“He wants to kill people,” says Hornets forward Frank Kaminsky. “He really does. He takes every matchup personally. He wants to win every game, every possession. He wants to make every shot. You can see that in the way he plays. He’s fiery.”

Despite the everyday intensity, Walker struggled early on in the NBA. He remembers all too well what it was like to be a rookie on a Charlotte Bobcats team that finished 7-59 in 2011-12, the lockout-shortened season. He remembers his many poor individual performances amid that stretch. He remembers calling friends and family to vent after most losses, dejected and pissed off.

“That year was crazy,” he says. It was the nearest he’s come to rock bottom. A year earlier, he had guided the UConn Huskies to an improbable NCAA title—a run that included 11 straight victories beginning with the Big East Tournament and featuring that legendary stepback at the Garden.

The difficult transition made him question whether he would ever find success at the highest level.

“There were times when I really didn’t think I belonged in the League,” Walker admits. “I just didn’t know how far I would make it, or even how long I would be here.”

There was serious doubt about his jumper specifically, which was too inconsistent for someone touted as a scorer. He shot merely 37 percent from the field and 31 percent from deep that first season, finishing less than 50 percent of his layups as well.

Yet the skepticism—and there was plenty—only fueled Walker.

“I just had to increase my work ethic and become a better player,” he says. “For me, it was always about, I’m going to prove ’em wrong. That’s all I thought about—proving ’em wrong. They say I can’t shoot. Well alright, I’m going to get in the gym and shoot the ball and get my confidence up and learn how to be a better shooter so I can show ’em that I will be able to do it one day.”

It took time, to be sure. A lot of long nights in his second home, repeating the same drills over and over again. A lot of hard losses and more somber phone calls to his crew. He continued to have trouble in the ensuing years, upping his scoring average but faltering in terms of his percentages. The frustration came in waves but the commitment was steadfast. Even if others didn’t believe in him, Kemba was going to stick with it.

“He’s a perfectionist,” says Shabazz Napier, a teammate of Kemba’s at UConn. “He wants to perfect everything he does. He wants to be one of the greats. He wants to get after it every time. He understands that he has to have that mentality where he just continues to push and work at whatever he needs to.”

“I’ve known K since high school,” says Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, who was drafted a year after Walker. “Ain’t nothing changed in terms of his personality and work ethic. He’s hungry—all day, every day. He takes pride in being exactly who he is, and that’s a dog.”

The significant, and lasting, jump came in 2015-16, when Walker averaged 20.9 points on 43 percent from the field and 37 percent from three. He’s kept his efficiency in the same ballpark since, and combined with his fearless mindset, has gradually developed into a superstar.

Yes—a certified superstar.

Even so, Walker has constantly been overlooked. When he made his first All-Star Game in 2017, many of the fans didn’t recognize him or bother to ask for an autograph. Some mistook him for Wizards point guard John Wall.

Part of that has been due to Charlotte’s struggles as a team. They’ve finished 36-46 the last two seasons, not really warranting a national audience, and had quick exits the two times they reached the playoffs with Kemba. It’s also true that a low-key, small market like the Queen City has historically not received much spotlight.

Still, there’s a reason that Kemba pushes back when you refer to this year as a “breakout” for him. Albeit not quite at this level, he’s been doing similar stuff for awhile now. You just might have been sleeping.

Things do feel different this time around—Walker will acknowledge that. More media attention has been focused on the Hornets of late, thanks to numerous absurd performances by their leader. Much of the basketball universe will convene in Charlotte for All-Star in a few weeks, marking the first time the city has hosted since 1991. Rapper Cardi B, who’s also from the Bronx, even shouted Kemba out on a song with Migos that blew up in 2018.

“My phone started going crazy when it came out,” Walker laughs. “I was feeling it. I was hype.”

Walker takes pride in the increased awareness he’s brought to Charlotte, and in how the basketball culture has blossomed during his tenure. He’s been here for nearly a third of the team’s existence, completely rewriting the record books, and has expressed a desire to stay when he hits free agency this summer.

If you stroll the halls of the Spectrum Center, you’re reminded of his significance to the organization. Banners celebrating the Hornets 30th anniversary display him next to other franchise legends: Muggsy Bogues, Dell Curry, Larry Johnson, Glen Rice, Baron Davis.

“Kemba is a big staple of the city of Charlotte. Everybody loves him,” says Muggsy, who moved back there after his career ended. “The kid is not going to back away from anything. Each year, he brings something different to the table. He’s really become so accurate behind the three-point line and the game has slowed down for him. He sees it at a whole new angle, and he’s making the guys around him better at the same time. You just have to marvel at the player that he’s becoming.”

Walker’s first All-Star Game jersey is framed on a wall in the public relations office at the arena. He has already been named a starter for this year’s event, which will take place in this very building.

“The All-Star Game definitely gave me a little extra boost,” Walker says. “I definitely want to represent my city.”

Knowing his story and the obstacles he’s overcome, it’s refreshing to see Walker getting the credit he fully deserves. Make no mistake about it—whatever attention comes, whatever accolades pile up, whatever chants ring out at the Spectrum Center, he’s earned this.

—

You don’t get the fiery Kemba Walker off the court. He’s all smiles and jokes, making you forget that he mercilessly dominates opponents on the regular. To remind him of a memory from his AAU days, we brought a razor scooter to our photo shoot. He and a number of his teammates on the Gauchos were prized with similar ones during a trip to Las Vegas. They rode around the Strip that week calling themselves the Scooter Boys. A 28-year-old Kemba looked just as excited to hop on the scooter now. “Can I keep this?” he asked, a big grin on his face.

“The serious guy you see on the court, he’s not like that off the court at all,” says Kaminsky. “He’s the absolute best guy to be around.”

It’s deceiving, really.

He’ll lock in for a game listening to Future’s Dirty Sprite 2. Two hours before tip-off, his phone will start buzzing. Longtime friends will wish him good luck, tell him to do his thing and stay healthy. Kemba will scroll through and like all the messages. It’s become a ritual.

I got y’all, he’ll frequently respond.

Then it’s go time. He’ll dance his way to bucket after bucket, attacking big men inside and hitting from the perimeter. Every so often, he’ll give the crowd exactly what it anxiously awaits—one of those mixtape highlights you catch on your Instagram feed later on. Crescendos of oohs and aahs will echo through the rafters, mirroring each ridiculous move. Sometimes the play will bring Hornets owner Michael Jordan, who’s sitting on the end of the bench, to his feet.

Walker has even surprised himself with how far he’s come.

“I don’t know if I ever saw myself becoming this type of player,” he says, “thriving the way I thrive in this League.”

Charlotte hasn’t won a playoff series since 2002, and most doubt that they will this season. Which is why on most evenings, you know where to find Kemba.

To consider the future can distract from his present work. The ceiling is already higher than he—and virtually everyone else—projected. Kemba keeps a smile on his face and stays focused on what he can control—quiet nights in a peaceful gym in downtown Charlotte, just shooting. You can always get better, as he often reminds younger teammates. It’s a process.

But at the end of the road, how do you want to be remembered?

“I want my legacy to be just that every single night, I left it all on the court,” he says. “I want people to remember me like that. That regardless of how the games went, I always played hard and always played to win. And played the game for the right reason.”

The journey is far from over, and who knows where it will take Kemba Walker.

But that legacy is secure.

—

GRAB YOUR COPY OF SLAM 220 HERE!

Alex Squadron is an Associate Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter @asquad510.

Photos by Atiba Jefferson and via Getty Images. 

The post If You Don’t Know, Now You Know: Kemba Walker Is a Certified Superstar 🗣 appeared first on SLAM.

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“I don’t really remember the exact date,” he continues. “It was a big decision, but it wasn’t a big announcement, you know what I mean? Nothing crazy. The idea was already in my head.”

A few weeks before our conversation, Bazley sent shockwaves through the basketball world by switching things up. He announced his intention to decommit from Syracuse to travel down a road no one else ever had. He wants to become the first player to ever jump straight to the G League from high school.

The path from Princeton High School (OH) to the League seemed to already be perfectly plotted out for Bazley. The 6-9 forward is a five-star recruit who had caught the eye of Cuse’s legendary Jim Boeheim. On the strength of 15 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks per game as a senior, he secured invitations to the McDonald’s All-American Game, the Jordan Brand Classic and the Nike Hoop Summit, games reserved for only the nation’s top talent.

He earned his spot in those showcases by displaying a versatile array of finesse and power. Sometimes he’s flying down the lane on the fast break, other times he’s playmaking from below the foul line. He can rise up from the weak side to swat shots and he’s got touch from the middle. His finishing around the rim stands out. He can throw down with either hand or put the backspin off the glass with his lays.

“A lot of people at his size now in the game of basketball can’t do what he can do,” Steve Wright, his high school and AAU coach, tells us. “His skill set, being able to come off ball-screens, I know a lot of people didn’t see that during the McDonald’s and Jordan Brand game and Hoops Summit, but he has the ability to do that, and I think he will be able to showcase that once he gets to his next destination.”

His next destination is the G League, a league full of professional players with years of college, overseas and NBA experience. And the hunger to earn a paycheck.

Both Bazley and Wright fully acknowledge that this uncharted journey to the Association is going to be difficult. Wright says they’ve looked at how Terrance Ferguson and Brandon Jennings went overseas before hitting the NBA and adapted to those situations. And Bazley doesn’t have any illusions. He says he doesn’t expect to immediately get his in the G League.

“I mean, if we’re being honest, no one is just going to go in there and dominate,” he says. “My goal is to get better. I think dominating the G League is pointless. I’m not saying I’m not going in there with the right mind-set, but I’m just saying, going in there with the mind-set of I need to average 30 and have a triple-double every night is pointless because I’m not looking to be a G League hero or a G League legend. My goal is to get to the NBA, so I’m using this as a development for me. This is just me getting better, getting ready for the NBA.”

Now that he’s 18, Bazley can officially enter his name in the G League draft, which takes place in October. Though Coach Wright says Bazley’s decision was initially “shocking,” he has confidence that he’ll find his way.

“Darius is his own person,” Wright says. “He has his own different thoughts and he has people around him, especially myself, his mom, other coaches. We support our kids and the decisions that they make. It was something that he thought about and he came to me about it, came to his mom about it and, of course, we showed our support.”

“My end goal is to get into the NBA,” Bazley says, “and I felt this is my best bet at getting there.”

—

Max Resetar is an Associate Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram. 

Photos via Getty. 

The post From High School to the G League: Darius Bazley Is Riding His Own 🌊 appeared first on SLAM.

The Skyforce have been in business since 1989, eluding the graveyard that is minor league basketball, and Heineman has sat shotgun for nearly the entire trip. He remembers the days, pre-sports drink sponsors and NBA-team partnerships, when Skyforce players and staff would celebrate the delivery of a box stuffed with free Pony shoes. And so, looking at the three pictures he held in his hand that day, Heineman couldn’t help but smile.

Each photo was of a Skyforce team. One from 1996 featured 12 players and three coaches. Another, from 2006, the Skyforce’s first year in the D-League, also had three coaches bracketing the team’s 10 players.

Then he looked at the most recent photo, of the Skyforce team that the previous year had captured its first ever D-League title. Heineman counted 11 staff members posing alongside 10 players.

“I’ve been around a long time and seen a lot,” Heineman says today (the team partnered with the Miami Heat in 2013). “To see where we’ve come to, it’s quite remarkable.”

Once viewed as a basketball purgatory, the G League has in recent years morphed into a springboard towards greater basketball heights.

You can find examples all across the League. Trey Burke, the former lottery pick who, in September, turned down a contract with the Thunder so that he could play with the Knicks’ G League affiliate, and then balled out when called up. Quinn Cook, who, after proving himself on the Warriors’ G League team in Santa Cruz, just won an NBA championship with the Dubs. Former lottery pick Brandon Jennings, now 28 years old, spent a season in China before leveraging an audition with the G League’s Wisconsin Herd into a multi-year deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. And then there’s the Toronto Raptors, whose franchise-record 59-win season was partially built on the backs of an explosive bench consisting of graduates from their G League team, the Raptors 905.

“I think our second unit is a testament to the work we do with the 905,” says Dan Tolzman, a Raptors executive who also serves as 905 GM.

According to data provided by the NBA, 53 percent of players on NBA rosters at the end of the 2018 season spent time in the G League. Every NBA team this year had at least six one-time G League players on their roster.

“If you’re a player trying to get into, or back into, the NBA, the G League is now your best option,” Craig Robinson, the Knicks’ vice president of player development and G League operations, says.

For years this had been the plan. But reaching this level of legitimacy took some time.

“When I played, when a scout or someone from the NBA came to your game, you noticed it,” says Kasib Powell, a 37-year-old assistant coach for the Skyforce and former D-League MVP. “We used to feel so much pressure whenever an NBA scout came. Now our guys assume the NBA is watching.”

The G League’s been gradually growing since its inception in 2001. But this injection of resources is a recent development, one tied to NBA franchises recognizing the myriad ways in which adopting a minor league team could benefit them on the NBA stage.

The first NBA franchise to purchase a G League team was the Los Angeles Lakers in 2006. Before that, most either ignored minor league development or outsourced the work.

Today, all but three of the NBA’s 30 franchises own and operate their own G League affiliate (the Nuggets, Pelicans and Trail Blazers are the lone holdouts). But, in an e-mail, G League commissioner Malcolm Turner wrote that he expects those three franchises to join the fray “within the next 12-to-18 months.”

Turner also pointed out that the NBA doesn’t solely view the G League as a breeding ground for players. As Robinson puts it: “We see our mission at the Westchester Knicks to develop players for the New York Knicks, but also employees, from coaches to scouts to administrators.” Scour the directories of G League teams and you’ll recognize the names of dozens of former players.

Of course, there are still areas where the league can grow. Player salaries is one, though the NBA, which pays all G League salaries, is taking steps towards addressing that issue.

In April, it was announced that G League salaries would be bumped up to $35,000 over the five-month season (plus housing and insurance benefits). Previously, salaries were either $26,000 or $19,000. This comes just one year after the league instituted the two-way contract—a hybrid deal where players split time between the NBA and G League—all of which will now allow G League players to earn up to $385,000 a year.

But perhaps the greatest testament to the G League’s rising prominence was the decision of Darius Bazley, a five-star recruit out of Ohio, to renege on his commitment to Syracuse so that next year he could play in the G League instead.

That, Turner says, is a move he expects to see replicated.

“The competition in the G league is tough,” he says. “The coaching is NBA-caliber and the exposure to life as a professional athlete is valuable.”

—

Yaron Weitzman is a writer living in New York. Follow him on Twitter @YaronWeitzman.

Photos via Getty Images.

The post From Basketball Purgatory to NBA Springboard: The Evolution of the G League ⬆️ appeared first on SLAM.

KD put up 43 points (on 15/23 shooting), 13 rebounds, and 7 assists, and hit a dagger three-pointer in the final minute, to lead the Warriors to a 110-102 comeback victory.

Players around the League hopped on Twitter to discuss the epic performance:

Wasn’t they just killing KD about a wk ago?? ” Then you drop a couple of hits, look how they wave to you”

— Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) June 7, 2018

KD !!!!

— Manu Ginobili (@manuginobili) June 7, 2018

KD IS NOT NICE

— Joel Embiid (@JoelEmbiid) June 7, 2018

“My goodness”( Jeff van gundy voice)

— DWade (@DwyaneWade) June 7, 2018

Kd put the whole season away lol

— SLOWMO (@KyleAnderson5) June 7, 2018

KD yooo

— Buddy Love !!!! (@buddyhield) June 7, 2018

@KDTrey5 ladies and gentlemen…….

— Andre Drummond (@AndreDrummond) June 7, 2018

KD is snatching hearts right now

— Francis Kaminsky III (@FSKPart3) June 7, 2018

Warriors fans cheering for KD today they like them one on one moves when they going in. I dnt hear people saying he hurting the offenseive movement

— CJ McCollum (@CJMcCollum) June 7, 2018

After this Ring I hope KD goes somewhere else and tries to win one with his own team.. He got his validation.. He’s one of the best in the World it’s time.. Just my opinion. Not suppose to be this easy

— Jared Dudley (@JaredDudley619) June 7, 2018

NBA Twitter was also buzzing about Rodney Hood, who finally saw significant minutes and posted 15 points and 6 rebounds:

People forget Hood was a rising star in Utah. You’re as good, or as bad as the situation you’re in..

— Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) June 7, 2018

Hooooooooooooooooooooooood!!!!

— Brandon Jennings (@brandonjennings) June 7, 2018

HOODIE

— Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) June 7, 2018

— Rudy Gobert (@rudygobert27) June 7, 2018

People acting like they re surprise Hood can play

— Evan Fournier (@EvanFourmizz) June 7, 2018

People are acting like Rodney Hood is a 10 days and nobody knew who he was…

— Nicolas Batum (@nicolas88batum) June 7, 2018

Rodney Hood being freed is up there with Meek Mill’s

— Tobias Harris (@tobias31) June 7, 2018

Rodney Hood should’ve been free . Glad he getting some tick and hoopin

— CJ McCollum (@CJMcCollum) June 7, 2018

Despite a triple-double from LeBron (33 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds), the Cavs now trail Golden State 3-0 in the series.

Game 4 is Friday at 9pm ET.

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The 28-year-old point guard is signing a deal with Milwaukee for the remainder of the season, reports Shams Charania of Yahoo Sports:

Sources: Brandon Jennings is signing a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks for the rest of the season. His second 10-day contract expired on Friday night.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 31, 2018

In 10 games with the Bucks, Jennings has averaged 5.5 points and 3.3 rebounds.

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The post Report: Brandon Jennings Signing Deal With Bucks For Rest Of Season appeared first on SLAM.

Jennings, who inked a 10-day contract over the weekend, finished with 16 points, 12 assists and eight rebounds in 24 minutes off the bench.

The 28-year-old had last suited up for the Bucks in 2013.

Per the Journal Sentinel:

“I was nervous,” Jennings said. “I felt like it was my first rookie game again. Just putting on that jersey was a blessing and I was just very grateful.”

Jennings had joined the Bucks on Sunday morning by signing a 10-day contract. He started the season playing in China before joining the Bucks’ G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd, in February.

“It’s just all the hard work I was putting in in China,” Jennings said. “People don’t understand I was still hurt with my Achilles injury, so now I’m finally healthy and I was able to really just revamp my whole self.

“I just was able to find myself again. I was really mentally messed up in the head because of my so-called career-ending injury. Just always wanted to bounce back from that. … I tried to get a lot of negative thoughts and things out of my head and it really helped me.”

The post Brandon Jennings Shines in Return to Bucks appeared first on SLAM.

The Spurs’ season continued to spiral downwards as the Western Conference leading Rockets got big nights out of their star backcourt duo of James Harden (28 points, six assists, six rebounds) and Chris Paul (18 points, nine assists).

Already short-handed without star Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio was unable to get any rhythm on offense as LaMarcus Aldridge sat out with a sore right knee.

The loss moved San Antonio down to 10th in the conference and outside the top eight for the first time this year.

Chris Paul is a MAGICIAN with the rock… (via @nba) pic.twitter.com/ehvubCpuXu

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 13, 2018

Pro athletes looking silly trying to guard James Harden is just the norm now (via @HoustonRockets) https://t.co/h54OpsSMjc

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 13, 2018

Bucks 121 (36-31), Grizzlies 103 (18-49)

Brandon Jennings was able to seamlessly integrate himself into the Bucks’ rotation despite having only one practice with the Bucks under his belt since returning from a stint overseas, notching 16 points, 12 assists and eight rebounds in 24 minutes off the bench.

Kris Middleton led the Bucks with 24 points and had a game-high plus-minus of +21.

Marc Gasol led the Grizzlies with 17 points.

Assist No. 10 for Brandon Jennings and he’s got a double-double in just 15 minutes (via @bucks) pic.twitter.com/b04m3i09JW

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 13, 2018

Kings 101 (21-47), Thunder 106 (40-29)

Carmelo Anthony was able to shake off his shooting struggles as he led the Thunder with 21 points on 7-for-14 shooting from the field and 5-for-7 from behind the arc.

Russell Westbrook stuffed the stat sheet with 17 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds, putting him a 99 career triple-doubles.

The win moved the Thunder up to fourth in the Western Conference and 11 games above .500, its best mark of the year.

9⃣9⃣ triple-doubles later and still having fun with it pic.twitter.com/rMGh10N225

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 13, 2018

Heat 99 (36-32), Trail Blazers 115 (41-26)

Jusuf Nurkic recorded 27 points and 16 rebounds as had his way inside as the Heat’s star defender Hassan Whiteside sat out due to injury. The same day he claimed he was amongst the league’s top shooters, Damian Lillard went 7-for-14 from behind the arc en route to a 32-point outing. The win was Portland’s 10th straight.

Goran Dragic led the Heat with 23 points.

The post Post Up: Brandon Jennings Provides Spark in Return to Milwaukee appeared first on SLAM.

G-League Wisconsin Herd guard Brandon Jennings is signing a 10-day contract with his original NBA team in the Milwaukee Bucks, a source told ESPN’s The Undefeated. https://t.co/RGAOrTd1ls

— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpearsESPN) March 10, 2018

Jennings has been playing for the Bucks’ G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd. Over five games, he has averaged 20.4 points and 8.0 assists.

Back in 2009, Milwaukee drafted Jennings with the 10th overall pick. He spent four seasons on the team before being traded to Detroit.

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The Wisconsin Herd of the @nbagleague have claimed former Bucks draftee Brandon Jennings, according to league sources

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 13, 2018

Earlier today @AdamJ_NBAGL reported that Brandon Jennings had signed with the @nbagleague and entered its player pool. Wisconsin sat No. 1 in the waiver order

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 13, 2018

Jennings most recently played for the Shanxi Dragons of the Chinese Basketball Association. The 28-year-old guard spent time with the Knicks and Wizards in 2016-17 and has career numbers of 14.3 points and 5.7 assists.

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According to Brandon Jennings—who’s hooped against Russ since high school—Westbrook “got better” this summer.

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/905850498833670145

Watch out.

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Footage from the game is limited, but here’s a clip of Johnson, 21, bullying his way to the rim for his 80th point.

@iAmSJ 80th point for a old fashioned 3pt play in regulation @SLAMonline @Ballislife against other leaguers #OVOBOUNCE pic.twitter.com/OVGEkbCDHm

— Charlie Max Torres (@bucketsworth) August 5, 2017

According to Ballislife, Johnson dropped 16 of his 86 points during a 20-second span in the fourth quarter.

After Johnson’s ridiculous display, plenty of NBA players weighed in on his performance.

@iAmSJ 86?!?

— Reggie Jackson (@Reggie_Jackson) August 5, 2017

This dude Stanley just dropped 86 #ovobounce

— Josuélito (@J_Rich1) August 5, 2017

https://twitter.com/JordanClarksons/status/893703761834766336

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/893680047218991106

86pts? Sheesh @iAmSJ

— Spencer Dinwiddie (@SDinwiddie_25) August 5, 2017

@iAmSJ ICU puttin on a show

— Jamal Murray (@BeMore27) August 5, 2017

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Image via @ovobounce

The post Stanley Johnson Drops 86 Points in OVO Bounce Championship Game appeared first on SLAM.

LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Chris Paul and other pros took to whatever game was being played—be it in parks or college arenas or even high school gyms—to ball out. Let’s take a look at the best highlights, mixtapes and matchups from the 2011 Lockout:

Kevin Durant Drops 66 at Rucker

KD’s performance at New York’s legendary Rucker Park might be the most enduring moment of the entire lockout. Stars have come to Rucker for years—from Dr. J to Kobe to Allen Iverson—and what Durant did that night was legendary. The points flowed as fast as the trash talk did and nothing could come between KD and his 66 points.

LeBron James and Kevin Durant Battle All Summer

LeBron and KD have been the two best in the League for almost a decade now, and with the two superstars on a crash course for the NBA Finals in the coming year, it made sense to go at each other as much as they could in the offseason. It seemed that every day there was a new highlight package centered around what LeBron or Durant were doing in a different city.

Both at the top of their game and itching to hoop, they hit the hardwood as much as they could, often directly against each other and they even worked out together. North Carolina, Memphis, Oklahoma City, Baltimore. You name a place, they were going to be playing. They turned the 2011 lockout circuit into a national production.

Brandon Jennings Kills the Summer

Hoop junkie Brandon Jennings is always looking for a game. So, when the NBA shutdown for part of 2011, he took to local courts across the country. Jennings didn’t join the high profile games that LeBron was in, but he found great competition, and cleaned it up with ease. His tight handle and unlimited range was on display throughout the summer and fall as he reminded us that he’s been one of the most exciting players in the League.

Kobe Bryant Hits Game Winner at Drew League

Kobe may have been on the older side when this lockout came around—the second one of his career—but that didn’t stop Mamba from showing out once in front of a big crowd. Bryant made an appearance at the Drew League, locking up with James Harden in a mid-day shootout. In true Mamba fashion, he knocked down a game-winning buzzer-beater in Harden’s face.

John Wall and Kevin Durant Each Drop 50

Like we said before, Kevin Durant was everywhere during the lockout. Durant may have been the star of the NBA during this pickup game circuit, as he seemed to be involved in every big game against all the other big names. This time, he was playing with John Wall, and the two brought it in a Drew League (LA) vs. Goodman League (DMV) showdown. James Harden and DeMar DeRozan also played, with Harden dropping 48.

John Wall, Eric Gordon, Paul George and DeMarcus Cousins Play at Indy Pro Am

Indianapolis natives Eric Gordon and Jeff Teague brought the lockout circuit to their home city and John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins, Paul George and a bunch of other NBAers joined what was one of the summer’s more competitive games. Bonus points for the multiple Josh McRoberts jams and a super young Gordon Hayward.

Carmelo Anthony Balls Out

Melo put the body on those willing to stand between him and the hoop, offering flashbacks to when he was dunking every other night. In the few games that the Baltimore-bred bucket-getter suited up during the lockout, he continually raised up over defenders with two-dribble hezzys that were impossible to stop.

Tyreke Evans Shows Off His Handle

Tyreke Evans has low key had one of the best handles in the game for a minute now and his game was on full display during the 2011 summer. Showing up to local runs, or playing against the top high school prospects during the Elite 24 scrimmage, Reke’s ball was on a string all summer.

Chris Paul Clowns Everyone

CP3 was in a few of the aforementioned clips but the “Point God” is deserving of his own highlight reel. Arguably the best lead guard of his generation, Paul’s handles are matched by few, making him especially devastating to anyone that tried to D him up during the lockout. He toured the country, burning players off the dribble and making some ridiculous passes. No one can deny Paul’s determination and, even in a pick-up game, he brought everything to the floor.

Stephen Curry Goes Off

Well before he made his first All-Star team or even played in the playoffs, Steph Curry was drilling ridiculous threes in front of unsuspecting defenders during the lockout. He was able to show out against former Warriors, like Corey Maggette and Gilbert Arenas, in what became a who’s who of the organization’s best players—up until 2011. Steph’s stroke was just as cash back then as it is now.

Top 50 Plays via Ballislife: 

The biggest takeaway from the lockout — besides the importance of labor peace — is just how good every single NBA player is. Obviously, guys like KD and LeBron are going to run through pickup games but even lesser-established guys and older veterans — like Jeremy Evans and Baron Davis, for example — make incredible plays with such ease. We’re used to seeing them in 20,000-seat arenas so when guys do it on college or high school courts in front of hundreds of fans, it feels more real. And, it’s a lot cooler.

EXTRA: Durant plays flag football

The lockout was so boring to some players that it even pushed them to try on a new sport for size. So, when KD was in Oklahoma City one day with nothing to do, he tried to find a pickup flag football game to get into. Of course, he was the biggest guy on the field when he played against a bunch of Oklahoma State students and made the rest of the sports world wonder about how good he could be if he chose football over basketball. Hint: he probably would have been pretty good.

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The post Best Moments From The 2011 NBA Lockout appeared first on SLAM.

The agreement is reportedly “one of the largest single-season deals” in CBA history.

Source: Terrence Jones, former HOU, NOLA and MIL forward, signed one of the largest single-season deals in China history with Qingdao.

— David Pick (@IAmDPick) July 30, 2017

Free agent Terrence Jones' one-year deal with China's Qingdao will be worth $2 million, source tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 31, 2017

Jones, 25, reportedly received interest from several NBA teams but was only offered a minimum deal, per Amico Hoops.

https://youtu.be/UsKfCiHbMU4

RELATED:
Brandon Jennings Agrees to 1-Year, $1.5 Million Deal in China

The post Terrence Jones Agrees to 1-Year, $2 Million Deal in China appeared first on SLAM.

According to ESPN, Jennings is hoping to return to the NBA once the Chinese season ends next year.

NBA free agent guard Brandon Jennings tells The Undefeated he has accepted a one-year, $1.5 million deal to play… https://t.co/JQ5PWSQgWO

— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) July 28, 2017

NBA free agent guard Brandon Jennings tells The Undefeated he has accepted a one-year, $1.5 million deal to play for China Shanxi.

 

Jennings hopes to return to the NBA after his season in China concludes.

Earlier this month, Shanxi had offered a deal to Ty Lawson, who is still “weighing his options.”

RELATED:
The 30 Best High School Mixtapes of All Time

The post Brandon Jennings Agrees to 1-Year, $1.5 Million Deal in China appeared first on SLAM.

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/890460186736906240

Jennings left his own and John Wall’s off his personal list, and said Zion Williamson’s highlights will go down in the record books.

Everyone chimed in, from bloggers to other NBA players, so we at decided to give our two cents.

We went through the mixtape archives and found the 30 best out there, and then ranked them. For those wondering why there’s no LeBron James or Sebastian Telfair: they were around just before mixtapes from brands like Ballislife and Hoopmixtape blew up. This is strictly a digital list.

As for Zion and LaMelo…Well, their story is still being written, but there is no doubt in our minds that we’ll have to go back and rearrange this list by the end of next season.

Agree with our choices? Doubtful. So scroll down, check out the mixtapes and let us know what we got wrong.

1. John Wall

The undisputed mixtape GOAT. Wall was a man among boys in high school and his Hoopmixtape made him a legend before he even started at Kentucky.

2. Aquille Carr

“The Crime Stopper” got his name by filling the stands in Baltimore—and then in Paterson, New Jersey—with his unbelievable handles and crafty finishes. Standing 5-6, Aquille Carr was a YouTube sensation who would light up the floor anytime he stepped on it. There was nothing he couldn’t do out there. Crime in his native East Baltimore literally fell during his games, for real.

3. Seventh Woods

At 14 years old, Seventh Woods absolutely took the internet by storm with dunk after dunk. Woods is currently at North Carolina, entering his sophomore season, so he has a ton of his career ahead of him. But for now, he is best known for this insane highlight tape.

4.Brandon Jennings

Hoophead Brandon Jennings is also famous for having one of the best mixtapes of all time. Everything is on display in this four-minute video, ranging from deep threes to ankle-shattering crossovers. Jennings always put on a show when he was out there at such a young age and helped pave the way for high school mixtapes to become as popular as they are today.

5. Andrew Wiggins

Before Andrew Wiggins was the centerpiece of the upstart Minnesota Timberwolves, he was dunking everything at West Virginia’s Huntington Prep. And we mean everything. Wiggins showed off his nasty vertical as a senior in high school and was too good for the competition.

6. Austin Rivers

Nasty handles? Check. Sweet jump shot? Check. Trashtalking in his mixtape? Check. Austin Rivers checked off all the boxes in his highlight reel.

7.Derrick Rose

The images may be grainy, but it is as clear as day that Derrick Rose was worth all of the hype in high school. Rose was simply too quick for defenders on the perimeter and too explosive to be stopped once he took off.

8. Marcus LoVett

Marcus LoVett was a sophomore at the time of this clip, but he was head and shoulders above the rest. LoVett’s attitude matched his game—loud and confident.

9. Ben Simmons

You can’t help but get incredibly excited for Simmons’ rookie debut in a few months after watching him take over in his mixtape.

10. OJ Mayo

By the time OJ Mayo stepped foot on USC’s campus, he was already a folk legend. The wing was an absolute terror to cover in high school and he parlayed his insane hype into a great season at USC and then a top-5 pick in the NBA Draft.

11. Gabe York

You might not remember Gabe York, who played four solid seasons at Arizona, but his high school tape is something to behold. With dunks, jumpers and crossovers, he was dominant as a Southern California prep prospect.

12. Josh Selby

Josh Selby was a consensus top-5 recruit in the Class of 2010 who dazzled crowds with his dominant all-around game. That brought him to Kansas, where Selby struggled through his freshman season before leaving for the pros. He spent parts of two seasons with the Grizzlies and shuttled around the G-League. Now, he’s overseas.

13. Julius Randle

Julius Randle was an absolute specimen as a high schooler. Before he went off to Kentucky, Randle ran through and dunked over everything in his path.

14. Derrick Jones

“What?” That’s all you can say after watching Derrick Jones in his mixtape. Jones leaps higher than almost anyone and is now jamming in the NBA Dunk Contest as a member of the Suns.

15. Thon Maker 

Thon Maker burst onto the scene a few years back with his rare mix of size and pure ability. Maker destroyed opponents and was nearly unguardable at this level.

16. Kyrie Irving 

New Jersey native Kyrie Irving was always destined for superstardom, as seen by his filthy high school mixtape.

17. DeMar DeRozan 

DeRozan, always an athletic specimen, really showed how talented he was at the high school level. Not afraid to take off and finish over anyone in his way, DeRozan was a star in the making.

18. Harry Giles

At 16 years old, Harry Giles drew comparisons to Kevin Garnett. With this highlight package, could you say disagree? Giles was a do-it-all big man who seemed to be playing a different game than the other guys on the court.

19. Lance Stephenson

Born Ready earned his nickname because he was just that. The Coney Island, Brooklyn, native was so dominant as a teenager that many had him pegged as the next big thing in basketball.

20. Dennis Smith Jr.

Before being the No. 9 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, Dennis Smith Jr put up one of the most impressive mixtapes to date. DSJ showed insane hops and a killer mentality at the high school level.

21. Trae Jefferson

Another small guard, Trae Jefferson was Milwaukee’s version of Aquille Carr a few years back. There’s a lot of Nate Robinson in his game, from the look-away passes to stepback jumpers. Jefferson averaged 14.8 points during his first season at Texas Southern this past year, and there’s certainly more to come from the 5-7 stud.

22. Jrue Holiday

Thanks to injuries, Jrue Holiday doesn’t quite have the explosiveness he did in high school, where he would use any means to roast anyone stupid enough to try and defend him.

23. Aaron Gordon

This is probably one of the meaner mixtapes on the list. Even as a 16-year-old, Aaron Gordon had a tendency to just bully the rim with huge dunks. It’s just not fair that he adds some dirty stepback threes to a vicious offensive repertoire that led him to Arizona and then the Magic.

24. Josh Jackson

Some guys are good at dunking, and some guys are natural-born dunkers. Josh Jackson would be considered the latter. His rise off the ground is seemingly effortless, which helps for both his jams and his big blocks. For a guy of his size, the handle and passing isn’t bad either.

25. De’Aaron Fox

There isn’t much on a basketball court that De’Aaron Fox can’t do, which makes his mixtape all the more impressive. The creative dribble moves are awe-inspiring enough on their own, but when you view them in succession with tomahawks, windmills and pull-up threes, it makes you wonder how Fox’s team ever lost in high school.

26. Emmanuel Mudiay

Not many point guards can do what Emmanuel Mudiay was ahead of his years in high school and one can only imagine how dominant he would have been in college.

27. James Harden

It’s weird to have James Harden so low on this list, which is certainly not a knock on him as a player. The Beard was great in high school but what made him great then—and continues to today—is not necessarily what lights up a mixtape. Still, some of his dishes in this one are real nice, as are the long threes.

28. Jabari Parker

While his face still looked pretty young, Jabari Parker was a grown man during his time at Chicago’s Simeon High School. Undersized defenders had no shot at stopping him in the lane, and had an equally hard time getting out to the perimeter to contest his shots.

29. Jahii Carson

Like Josh Selby, Jahii Carson was a high school standout who probably left college a bit too early. Carson played at Arizona State for two years before declaring for the draft, in which he wasn’t picked despite recording some crazy jumping measurements at the Combine. He then played in Serbia and Croatia before heading up to play in Canada’s top league, the NBL.

30. Kiwi Gardner

At 5-7, Kiwi Gardner dazzled crowds with his ball-handling and bounce. The electric point guard committed to Providence College, but never earned eligibility. After playing for the Warriors G-League team, he headed overseas this past year.

The post The 30 Best High School Mixtapes of All Time appeared first on SLAM.

It wasn’t the best look for the trio, who struggled to pull away until the second half. There were a bunch of missed layups, messed-up dunks and even a poster —Chris Garcia on Randle —for the pros, who finally turned it around to get the W.

DeRozan and Young, both L.A. natives, have been regulars at the Drew for years while Randle—set to enter his fourth year with the Lakers—just started playing this summer. The 22-year-old dominated the game, dropping 29 points and 17 rebounds while looking as explosive and athletic as he has since leaving Kentucky after his freshman season. Check out the video above for all the highlights.

Video courtesy of Ballislife

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The post DeMar DeRozan, Nick Young and Julius Randle Avoid Drew League Upset appeared first on SLAM.

Against the Cavs, Lonzo followed up his absurd 36-point showing against Philly with an easy triple double against the Cavs. The 6-6 point guard finished with 16 points, 12 assists, and 10 rebounds to let the Lakers live another day in playoff play. Oh, he was also rocking the ‘Nightlife’ Harden 1 one day after he wore Kobes.

LaMelo, on the other hand, went to work on the AAU circuit with his Big Ballers AAU squad. LaVar was running the show on the sidelines and witnessed his son drop 36 points, 14 assists, ‎and 10 boards in a win over the SoCal All-Stars while also wearing Harden 1s. Not a slouch by any means, SCA has alumni including Kevin Love, Brandon Jennings, Delon Wright, Renardo Sidney (was No. 1 in the Class of ’09 for a while), etc. Melo made some outstanding passes with both hands, drilled a number of deep 3-pointers, and made some near full court passes that would have made his big bro proud.

Related
Lonzo Ball Explains Why He’s Been Playing In Kobes and Hardens

The post Lonzo Ball and LaMelo Ball Drop Triple-Doubles On The Same Day appeared first on SLAM.

Undoubtedly influenced by the Warriors’ dominance last season, teams have been making big acquisitions to counter the reigning champions.

As usual, we’ve broken down the NBA free agent signings into two categories: “On The Move” and “Staying Put.”

Below is a comprehensive look at the agreements made since the free-agency period began at midnight on July 1. Everything is a verbal agreement until the moratorium period ends on July 7.

Let us know in the comments who you think has had the best and worst offseason so far!

ON THE MOVE

Gordon Hayward: 4-year, $128 million deal with Celtics

Paul Millsap: 3-year, $90 million deal with Nuggets

Jeff Teague: 3-year, $57 million deal with Wolves

George Hill: 3-year, $57 million deal with Kings

JJ Redick: 1-year, $23 million deal with Sixers

Taj Gibson: 2-year, $28 million deal with Timberwolves

Danilo Gallinari: 3-year, $65 million deal with Clippers

Rudy Gay: 2-year, $17 million deal with Spurs

Jonathon Simmons: 3-year, $20 million deal with Magic

PJ Tucker: 4-year, $32 million deal with Rockets

Nick Young: 1-year, $5.2 million deal with Warriors

Omri Casspi: 1-year deal with Warriors

Langston Galloway: 3-year, $21 million deal with Pistons

Zach Randolph: 2-year, $24 million deal with Kings

Vince Carter: 1-year, $8 million deal with Kings

Patrick Patterson: 3-year, $16.7 million deal with Thunder

Kelly Olynyk: 4-year, $50-plus million deal with Heat

Darren Collison: 2-year, $20 million deal with Pacers

Ben McLemore: 2-year, $10.7 million deal with Grizzlies

Justin Holiday: 2-year, $9 million deal with Bulls

Tyreke Evans: 1-year, $3.3 million deal with Grizzlies

Jodie Meeks: 2-year, $7 million deal with Wizards

Bojan Bogdanovic: 2-year, $21 million deal with Pacers

Amir Johnson: 1-year, $11 million deal with Sixers

Michael Carter-Williams: 1-year, $2.7 million deal with Hornets

Jose Calderon: 1-year, $2.3 million deal with Cavaliers

Arron Afflalo: 1-year, $2.3 million deal with Magic

Zhou Qi: Multiyear deal with Rockets

Mike Scott: Veteran’s minimum deal with Wizards

Jamal Crawford: two-year, $8.9 million deal with Timberwolves

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: 1-year, $18 million deal with Lakers

Dewayne Dedmon: 2-year, $14 million deal with Hawks

Ramon Sessions: 1-year, $2.3 million deal with Knicks

Terrence Jones: 1-year, $2 million deal in China

Brandon Jennings: 1-year, $1.5 million deal in China

Ian Clark: 1-year, $1.6 million deal with Pelicans

Michael Beasley: 1-year deal with Knicks

STAYING PUT

Stephen Curry: 5-year, $201 million deal with Warriors

Kevin Durant: 2-year, $53 million deal with Warriors

Blake Griffin: 5-year, $173 million deal with Clippers

Jrue Holiday: 5-year, $126 million deal with Pelicans

Kyle Lowry: 3-year, $100 million deal with Raptors

Serge Ibaka: 3-year, $65 million deal with Raptors

Dion Waiters: 4-year, $52 million deal with Heat

Andre Iguodala: 3-year, $48 million deal with Warriors

James Johnson: 4-year, $60 million deal with Heat

Joe Ingles: 4-year, $52 million deal with Jazz

Patty Mills: 4-year, $50 million deal with Spurs

Tony Snell: 4-year, $46 million deal with Bucks

Cristiano Felicio: 4-year, $32 million deal with Bulls

Mason Plumlee: 3-year, $41 million with Nuggets

Shaun Livingston: 3-year, $24 million deal with Warriors

Kyle Korver: 3-year, $22 million deal with Cavs

Nene: 3-year, $11 million deal with Rockets

JaMychal Green: 2-year, $17 million deal with Grizzlies

Manu Ginobili: 2-year, $5 million with Spurs

David West: 1-year deal with Warriors

Andre Roberson: 3-year, $30 million deal with OKC

Mike Muscala: 2-year, $10 million deal with Hawks

Otto Porter: four-year, $106.5 million deal with the Wizards

The post 2017 NBA Free Agent Tracker appeared first on SLAM.

When he was drafted by the Bucks with the 10th pick in 2009, he famously sauntered onto the stage before the 14th pick was announced.

The hype around Jennings was real and he hadn’t even suited up for the Bucks yet. Playing into the hype even more was that he had signed on to become the face of Under Armour’s basketball division.

But there were two other rookie guards getting attention. Tyreke Evans went from learning under Coach Cal for a season to Sac Town with the No. 4 pick. Following an incredible college career at Davidson, Stephen Curry of the Warriors had major buzz as the seventh pick. Plus his pops played in the League for 16 seasons.

By November 14, 2009, Jennings was six games into his career and his squad was 4-2. Curry and the Warriors came into Milwaukee that night, sitting at 3-5. Curry didn’t start that night. Probably wouldn’t have mattered.

After not scoring in the opening period, Jennings scored a light 10 in the second and then blitzed the Dubs for an astounding 29 points in the third quarter. All the while, leading his squad back from a 57-49 halftime deficit. He and the Bucks earned a 129-125 win. It was an incredible breakout performance, with a total 55 points on 21-34 shooting, including 7-8 from distance, along with 5 assists and 5 rebounds.

He scored mainly by himself, off-the-dribble. He was sprinting around the Dubs’ defenders and yanking them with his yo-yo handle. They must’ve been seeing a blur of red coming off his Under Armour Prototype II. The Prototype II had patent leather around the toebox and suede on the midfoot. It was built with an internal foot-sleeve and UA’s HeatGear tech, helping to keep BJ cool by wicking away sweat.

The white and red joints that Jennings wore that night featured a big “M” on the lateral side, a nod to the University of Maryland (UA’s headquarters are in Baltimore and they’ve been partners with the Terps since ’08).

Scroll through the gallery above to see the UA PII in action and watch BJ’s epic performance in the video below.

https://youtu.be/rgeuh4FiKoY

—

Max Resetar is an Associate Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter @maxresetar. Photos courtesy of Getty Images. 

The post Sneaker Moments: Brandon Jennings Drops 55 Points on the Warriors appeared first on SLAM.

After news of the trade broke, CP3’s good friends LeBron James and Dwyane Wade wished Paul luck in his new city.

My brother off to a new journey! Best of luck @CP3!! H-Town y'all got a great one coming to your city. #BrotherHood

— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 28, 2017

When friends of mine are happy then I'm equally as happy for them. Congrats to my brother @CP3 on choosing his own direction. #Brotherhood

— DWade (@DwyaneWade) June 28, 2017

Speculation began almost immediately that the Rockets aren’t done making moves.

As Wizards guard Brandon Jennings noted on twitter, the trade could clear the way for Carmelo Anthony to join the Rockets.

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/880098777037549568

Make sure you scroll through the gallery up top to see what else players around the League had to say about the CP3-to-Houston trade.

RELATED:
Clippers Trade Chris Paul to Houston Rockets

The post NBA Players React to Chris Paul Trade to Rockets appeared first on SLAM.

In return for Paul, the Rockets will send Patrick Beverley, Sam Dekker, Lou Williams, Montrezl Harrell, Kyle Wiltjer, a 2018 top-three protected draft pick and $661,000 in cash.

In addition, the Rockets will send DeAndre Liggins (Mavs) and Darrun Hilliard (Pistons) via trades for cash considerations.

After Chris Paul agreed to opt-in on contract, Clippers are trading All-Star guard to the Houston Rockets, league sources tell @TheVertical

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 28, 2017

Paul reportedly opted-in to the final $24.4 million of his contract on Wednesday and will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of next season.

As was previously reported, Rockets star James Harden had been actively recruiting Paul to join forces with him in Houston.

After news of the trade broke, CP3’s good friends LeBron James and Dwyane Wade wished Paul luck in his new city.

My brother off to a new journey! Best of luck @CP3!! H-Town y'all got a great one coming to your city. #BrotherHood

— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 28, 2017

When friends of mine are happy then I'm equally as happy for them. Congrats to my brother @CP3 on choosing his own direction. #Brotherhood

— DWade (@DwyaneWade) June 28, 2017

Speculation began almost immediately that the Rockets aren’t done making moves.

As Wizards guard Brandon Jennings noted on twitter, the trade could clear the way for Carmelo Anthony to join the Rockets.

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/880098777037549568

NBA players around the League had plenty to say about the blockbuster trade.

Be sure to check out players’ up-to-the-minute reactions in our comprehensive CP3-to-Houston tweetcap.

RELATED:
NBA Players React to Chris Paul Trade to Rockets

The post Clippers Trade Chris Paul to Houston Rockets appeared first on SLAM.

Superstar rapper Quavo shows off his smooth lefthanded stroke, drilling a few jumpers while sharing the court with Shaq’s son Shareef, and the late Manute Bol’s son Bol Bol. Per ESPN, the 6-8 O’Neal is the 18th-best player in the Class of 2018, and he’ll be headed to Tucson to play his college ball for Sean Miller at Arizona. Bol is currently regarded as the No. 4 recruit in the class of ’18 and has an impressive list of offers—including Arizona.

Resembling a Brandon Jennings-type scoring guard, Quavo has a quick release that’s tough to defend. But, as you can see in the video above, it’s his hustle on defense that might be the most impressive aspect of his game (peep 2:11).

Video courtesy of Home Team Hoops

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Watch: Quavo and Tory Lanez Playing Pickup

The post Quavo, Shareef O’Neal and Bol Bol Ball Out in Pickup Game appeared first on SLAM.

Game 4 was physical and chippy with a heavy dose of foul calls and technicals dolled out from the referee crew.

Ultimately, the Cavs delivered the most offensive firepower, winning the game 137-116 and forcing a Game 5 in Golden State.

Can't stop watching this. #NBAFinals pic.twitter.com/qfR8u6ApKe

— NBA (@NBA) June 10, 2017

NBA players watching the game had plenty to say LeBron and KD getting into it, the Cavs fan who got ejected, the abundance of whistles blown and more.

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/873379537970757633

That was DC vs Akron coming out!

— Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) June 10, 2017

Scroll through the gallery up top to see what the League had to say about an epic Game 4.

RELATED:
NBA Players React To Game 3 of the 2017 Finals

The post NBA Players React To Game 4 of the 2017 Finals appeared first on SLAM.

LCS is a brand new startup company that makes original laces. Their products are meant to play a part in telling the full story of a sneaker.

“LCS exists to provide a canvas for your originality,” they say on their website.

LCS have already made it to the NBA floor. Tarik Black wore the “Martin Luther King Jr.” laces in February and Brandon Jennings recently showed love to his momma in the “Mother’s Day” laces.

The company also has a “Moments” lace, done up in white and gold, that’s made to complement the sneakers we’re going to see in the upcoming NBA Finals. Up next are the camo “Memorial Day” joints.

All of the laces come in lengths ranging from 36″ to 72″ and are made out of polyester. Each pair costs $10. Scroll through the gallery up top to get a look at the “Memorial Day” laces and follow LCS Plus on Twitter and Instagram.

The post LCS Plus is Telling Stories Through Laces appeared first on SLAM.

Pound for Pound, as we all know, was a beast, securing the ’97 ROY pretty much immediately, blowing past opponents in the Reebok Question. The classic silhouette is made up of premium leather, a rubber outsole and an eye-catching Hexalite tech that provides a cushioned ride. The Answer’s first signature, which just celebrated its 20th birthday, has gone down as one of the best and most influential sneakers ever.

With his ball-on-a-string handle, all-seeing vision and showman’s mentality, Jennings’ game has always electrified crowds. He’s on the floor to get wins and buckets, of course, but he’s also out there to entertain. Since he was 17 and was running the point at the inaugural Elite 24 game, he’s displayed an array of filthy crossovers and dimes. He plays with his heart on his sleeve, talks trash and never backs down, much like Iverson.

When Jennings began the 2016-17 season with the Knicks as a sneaker free agent, he teamed up with Nick DePaula and Reebok designer Xavier Jones to work on a collection of ‘Bockers-themed Questions. Though the special Questions never made it to the court, the concepts are fire.

Jennings, DePaula and Jones came up with a white “Keys to the Gym” colorway, an orange “Mecca” joint in honor of the Knicks and a black colorway that would’ve been worn on the road, called “My Idol Allen.” On the inside of each tongue, they put the names of BJ’s kids and his family’s “Jennings Boys” motto.

Scroll through the gallery above to see what Jennings and his team came up with. And after BJ’s playing days are done, don’t be surprised to see him designing kicks for real.

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KICKS Hall of Fame: Reebok Question

Photos courtesy of Nick DePaula

The post Brandon Jennings’ Unreleased ‘Knicks’ Reebok Questions Samples appeared first on SLAM.

When the dust settled on the Wizards’ blowout Game 3 win, there were three ejections and eight technical fouls. Though the game was separated by 20 or more points for most of the night, each team had 26 fouls called on them. The matchup dragged along, bogged down by all the fouls and a few heated exchanges. It started with Ian Mahinmi and Jonas Jerebko getting up close and personal. Later in the game, with the Wizards’ win all but official, Brandon Jennings and Terry Rozier were both tossed for jawing at each other.

Between both of those incidents, Kelly Oubre charged at Kelly Olynyk. He reacted to an illegal pick set by Olynyk that caused him to hit the floor. Oubre then pushed Olynyk to the floor, even though referee Monty McCutchen was standing between them. Oubre was quickly thrown out.

In his postgame presser, Isaiah Thomas, who had 13 points in Game 3, said that there’s bad blood between the teams. “We don’t like them and they don’t like us. That’s just what it is,” Thomas said.

John Wall was consistently mean-mugging on his way to 24 points and 8 assists, leading the ‘Zards to wins in the steals, blocks, assists and rebounds categories. Otto Porter and Bojan Bogdanovic each scored 19 for Washington.

Don't blink. pic.twitter.com/Y3Wv0ErR7z

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 5, 2017

Warriors 115, Jazz 104 (Warriors lead series 2-0)

Though the Jazz haven’t held a lead yet in either game of this series, they delivered a hard-fought Game 2 performance. Gordon Hayward’s 33 points led Utah and they got at least 3 points from all 10 of their players. For most of the second half, they were within 8 points of the Warriors.

Like they do, the Dubs spread the love around, dishing 33 assists on 42 field made shots. Kevin Durant had 25 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists. Draymond Green put in 23 points and 7 helpers and Stephen Curry had 21 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists.

Though the Dubs dropped in 14 threes, the Jazz connected on 12 of their own, which helped them stay afloat without their floor general, George Hill. Golden State was able to win most of the statistical battles, most notably holding Utah to just 19 assists.

Warriors! pic.twitter.com/LQSMrCKyj9

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 5, 2017

The post Post Up: These Feelings appeared first on SLAM.

Things got heated a few times tonight. First, Ian Mahinmi and Jonas Jerebko got chest-to-chest. Later, in the second half, Brandon Jennings and Terry Rozier were thrown out because of consecutive plays where they were jawing and getting physical. But the game reached its peak when Kelly Oubre charged Kelly Olynyk and pushed him to the ground. Oubre was responding to getting hit with an illegal pick by Olynyk.

After the game, Isaiah Thomas, who had 13 points in the game, was honest with the media, saying:

We don’t like them and they don’t like us. That’s just what it is. Two teams competing. Whatever bad blood we’ve had in the season has carried over to the playoffs. But we’re just competing and trying to win. They did that today. We took care of business at home. Now we just gotta try to get Game 4.

The Celtics and Wizards had battles during the regular season, stemming from when Jae Crowder put his finger in the face of John Wall. From then on out, there was accusation of “dirty play” and then there was the funeral game. Earlier in the series, Markieff Morris challenged Al Horford. Watch Thomas’ comments below.

Isaiah: "We don't like them and they don't like us. That's just what it is." (via @BenGolliver) pic.twitter.com/LMeBVo8jkN

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 5, 2017

The post Isaiah Thomas on the Wizards: ‘We Don’t Like Them and They Don’t Like Us’ appeared first on SLAM.

In the first quarter of Game 1 against the Raptors, Kyrie Irving and LeBron James amped up the Q crowd with an absurd off-the-backboard alley-oop.

THAT’S NOT FAIR pic.twitter.com/fQKBdly1Au

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) May 1, 2017

NBA players from around the league reacted immediately to the highlight on Twitter:

Damnnnn that was crazyyyyyy

— Brandon Jennings (@brandonjennings) May 1, 2017

That was a hilariously bad pass by Kyrie. Which makes that catch and finish that much more spectacular..

— Spencer Dinwiddie (@SDinwiddie_25) May 1, 2017

They doing some Nba jam type stuff right now

— C.J. Watson (@Quietstorm_32) May 1, 2017

That really was some NBA Jam type stuff.

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WATCH: LeBron James’ Breakaway Dunk Brings The House Down

The post WATCH: Kyrie Irving Throws Off-the-Backboard Alley-Oop to LeBron James appeared first on SLAM.

For Chicago, Jimmy Butler wore a pair of his PE Air Jordan XXXIs for the second straight game after a stint in the new Jordan Ultra.Fly 2 while Dwyane Wade went with a white/red number of his Li-Ning Way of Wade 5. For Boston, Jae Crowder went with the “Cool Grey” Nike Kyrie 3 and Terry Rozier wore the adidas Harden Vol.1 “Imma Be A Star.”

Taurean Price was spotted in the adidas D Lillard 2, Markieff Morris went with another Nike Air Foamposite One and both Brandon Jennings and Dennis Schroder balled in the Nike PG1.

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Photos via Getty Images

The post NBA Playoff Kicks of the Night appeared first on SLAM.

Following the game, Jennings called the act “very disrespectful” and said that it would have been worse if JaVale tried to go to the basket instead.

From ESPN:

“It was very disrespectful,” Jennings said. “Thank God he didn’t go to the rack, it probably would have been worse for him. But any time like that, I think you should let [the] clock run out. I think it was already disrespectful that they were trying to get Draymond a triple-double, Steph was out there with 40. So, I just felt it was disrespectful.

 

“I’m old school. Like I said, he better be glad he shot that 3 and didn’t go to the basket.”

John Wall backed up Jennings and said that he thought Jennings made the right play:

“Yep, totally agree,” Wizards guard John Wall said when asked if the Warriors treated the game disrespectfully in the closing minutes. “Whenever a team is up like that, supposedly, you just hold the ball and take a shot-clock violation. So, what Brandon did, I don’t think it was dirty. I think it was the right play. You don’t let nobody try to embarrass you and I think that’s what they were trying to do.”

McGee wasn’t fazed by Jennings’ foul and said that he was “glad” he fouled him because his shot was going to be an airball. His teammate Matt Barnes didn’t seem worried about the Wizards’ comments either and said that Jennings “isn’t going to do anything:”

“Brandon isn’t going to do anything,” Matt Barnes told ESPN. “But I understand where he’s coming from. I would just wrap somebody up in that situation, but it is what it is. He’s not going to do anything.”

The two teams don’t match up again this season.

Related
John Wall Fined $15K for Blasting Referees

The post Wizards Say Warriors Were ‘Very Disrespectful’ At End Of Game appeared first on SLAM.

Some guy started loudly cussing out Jennings, before turning his wrath on Wall.

Brandon Jennings, John Wall INSULTED & THREATENED Outside Hollywood Club (Video) https://t.co/hLWXghiCkL

— TMZ Sports (@TMZ_Sports) March 29, 2017

Oddly enough, the man was seen dapping up Bradley Beal once everyone had cooled down.

Per TMZ:

The scene was crazy … the Washington Wizards stars were outside of 1 Oak late Tuesday night (hours after beating the Lakers) when they were confronted by a man who was seriously pissed off.

 

The man called Jennings a “mark ass ho” and bragged about being from Compton — he clearly wanted to fight. The same man confronted John Wall a short time later.

 

But the NBA stars kept their cool … and left the scene without incident.

The post Brandon Jennings and John Wall Heckled Outside L.A. Nightclub appeared first on SLAM.

Leading the way was Paul George himself as he rocked the “Shining” colorway against the Utah Jazz. George Hill continued to show support for his former teammate, as he once again took the floor in a yellow/white PE model. Others that rocked the PG1s on Monday night included Brandon Jennings and Garry Harris—both of whom wore the “Ferocity” model while Malcolm Delaney went with the aforementioned “Shining” model.

Jordan Brand had another banner night with several of its models hitting the hardwood. Russell Westbrook wore his familiar Air Jordan 30.5 PE, Kevin Durant took in the action in the Air Jordan I Retro “Black/Red,” Carmelo Anthony donned an orange Jordan Melo M13, Avery Bradley went Retro with the Air Jordan XX and Briante Weber broke out the Jordan Dub Zero.

Get familiar with the rest of Monday night’s NBA sneaker action in our latest recap.

Photos via Getty Images

The post NBA Kicks of the Night appeared first on SLAM.

The Hawks’ struggles continued tonight as they got blown out on the road. That’s now four straight losses. It was a team effort for the Hornets, with five players in double figures and no one scoring more than 16 points. Charlotte is now just three games out of 8th place in the East.

Magic 112 (26-45), 76ers 109 (26-44)

For lottery purposes, both these teams should be aiming to lose; but they battled it out into overtime, with the Magic eventually securing the three-point victory. Who really won, though?

Vucevic led Orlando with 26 points and 13 boards. Both Robert Covington (24p, 13r) and Richaun Holmes (24p, 14r) had double-doubles for Philly.

Pacers 107 (36-34), Jazz 100 (43-28)

Gordon Hayward put up a career-high 38 points, but the Jazz fell short at Bankers Life. That’s their third consecutive loss. Six players scored in double-figures for the Pacers, led by Jeff Teague’s 21. Utah shot just 23% from behind the arc (6/26), while Indiana connected on 10 of their 20 three-point attempts.

Celtics 110 (45-26), Wizards 102 (42-28)

Round 4 of Celtics-Wizards had major playoff implications, as the two teams continue to compete for the 2 spot in the East. Isaiah Thomas returned after missing the previous two games with a bruised knee and led Boston to a victory with 25 points.

We see you, @Isaiah_Thomas! (via @ESPNNBA) pic.twitter.com/XhLjVj4R56

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) March 21, 2017

And things got a bit chippy in the second quarter, with Brandon Jennings and Terry Rozier going at it.

Second half is underway in Boston, where Terry Rozier blatantly shoved Brandon Jennings to the parquet. pic.twitter.com/6IgmIzLbOD

— The Crossover (@TheCrossover) March 21, 2017

The rivalry continues.

Rockets 125 (49-22), Nuggets 124 (33-37)

James Harden continues to make his case for MVP. After back-to-back 40-point triple-double performances, the Beard registered 39 points, 11 assists, 7 rebounds, and hit the game-winning layup tonight. Just another day at the office.

Gary Harris led Denver in scoring with 28, and both Jokic (22p, 13r, 8a) and Will Barton (24p, 8a, 7r) flirted with triple-doubles.

What a pass by Jokic. (via @NBA) pic.twitter.com/ANUeMrLLMr

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) March 21, 2017

Warriors 111 (56-14), Thunder 95 (40-30)

Even with Durant sidelined, the trolling persisted, and things got heated out on the floor.

Golden State had the last laugh, however, as they cruised to a 16-point victory. It was a splash party with Klay (34 points) and Curry (23 points) raining seven treys each. Westbrook scored just 15 on 4/16 shooting, but at least his pregame outfit was on point. Why not??

Why not? pic.twitter.com/WCSVEUmIR1

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) March 21, 2017

Clippers 114 (42-29), Knicks 105 (27-43)

Blake Griffin did his thing, dropping 30 on 12/19 from the field. CP3 pitched in 13 points and 13 assists, and had one ridiculous Shammgod.

CP3 is too good. (via @NBA) pic.twitter.com/QmapSsn0Hv

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) March 21, 2017

As a team, the Clips shot 49% from the field and led pretty much the whole way. Porzingis had 18 and 11 rebounds for the Knicks.

The post Post Up: Splash Party appeared first on SLAM.

Now sitting at 27-42 and all but eliminated from playoff contention, the future of the franchise, Kristaps Porzingis, is reflecting on the season and told the NY Post that, “It was pretty easy to tell from the inside that we’re not that good of a team.”

More from the Post:

“We can win games based on our talent but it’s not going to last long. [We needed] more work, attention to details, to keep growing as a team. A good team needs time to play together. It was our first year of most of the guys playing together. It never happens like that [where] you trade a couple of players and you’re a championship contender. It’s understandable we weren’t going to win the championship, but I could tell we weren’t there yet.’’

KP, who will sit tonight’s game against the Clippers, also said that the team wasn’t “at that level where we wanted to be” from the start of the season:

“Of course, we all expected big things out of this year, but from the beginning it didn’t feel like — I felt we’d make big runs, but we weren’t there at that level where we wanted to be,’’ Porzingis said. “We can see now we’re not where we want it to be.’’

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The post Kristaps Porzingis: ‘We’re Not That Good Of A Team’ appeared first on SLAM.

Down 124-123 with 6.8 seconds left, the Wizards inbounded the ball and with two seconds to go, Markieff Morris pump faked, got Moe Harkless in the air, took a dribble and buried a game winner from the corner. However, after looking at the replay on the broadcast, Morris had clearly stepped out of bounds. Based on the NBA’s replay rules, the play could not be overturned and could only be reviewed if Morris had been out of bounds while he shot the ball, not while he was making his move. So the Wiz get a win and the Blazers fall to eight games under .500.

Following the game, Damian Lillard turned to Twitter to criticize the refs for missing the call:

https://twitter.com/Dame_Lillard/status/840822188160688129

Related
Brandon Jennings Fined $35K for “Making Menacing Gestures”

The post WATCH: Wizards Defeat Blazers On Controversial Game Winner appeared first on SLAM.

The NBA also fined Jared Dudley the same amount for his role in Tuesday night’s brouhaha.

Not a bad pick from Jason Smith, but Jared Dudley's belly-bump head-butt & for some reason Brandon Jennings' finger-guns. pic.twitter.com/BCjUWynPEN

— Kyle Weidie (@Truth_About_It) March 8, 2017

From the press release:

Phoenix Suns forward Jared Dudley has been fined $35,000 for escalating an altercation by confronting and making contact with Washington Wizards forward/center Jason Smith. Wizards guard Brandon Jennings has been fined $35,000 for making menacing gestures on the playing court as part of the same incident. The penalties were announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.

 

The incident, for which Dudley and Jennings were each assessed a Technical Foul and ejected, occurred with 10:45 remaining in the second quarter of the Suns’ 131-127 loss to the Wizards on March 7 at Talking Stick Resort Arena.

The post Brandon Jennings Fined $35K for ‘Making Menacing Gestures’ appeared first on SLAM.

Not a bad pick from Jason Smith, but Jared Dudley's belly-bump head-butt & for some reason Brandon Jennings' finger-guns. pic.twitter.com/BCjUWynPEN

— Kyle Weidie (@Truth_About_It) March 8, 2017

Jennings was backing up teammate Jason Smith after he was head-butted by Dudley (who was also ejected.)

Once the dust settled, Washington held off Phoenix 131-127.

Per the WaPo:

“They said I pointed my finger like a gun at Dudley,” Jennings said with an incredulous expression as he revealed what officials told him before the ejection.

 

“I was telling Dudley to relax, like, calm down, because you’re not that type of guy,” Jennings said. “Jason Smith didn’t do anything wrong anyway. All he did was set a good pick, so for you to come at a guy like Jason Smith, who’s not even a bad guy or don’t do things like that – so what are you doing? I was just protecting my teammate.”

 

“I’m sure I’ll hear from (the NBA) tomorrow,” Jennings said. “I’m just more upset because I feel like I was really getting into my rhythm tonight and I get kicked out for standing up for a teammate. Like, what the heck?”

The post Brandon Jennings Ejected for Pointing Finger ‘Like a Gun’ appeared first on SLAM.

Despite Russell Westbrook’s career-high 58 points, OKC absorbed their fourth straight loss. Portland outscored the Thunder 38-25 in the third quarter, and Westbrook cooled off in the fourth (6-of-15 shooting in the final period), helping the Trail Blazers improve to within 1.5 games of the eighth seed. Deadline acquisition Jusuf Nurkic came up huge for Terry Stotts, scoring six clutch points within the game’s final minute.

https://youtu.be/OFLOsj3ZSH4

Mavericks 122 (26-36), Lakers 111 (19-44)

Dirk Nowitzki scored his 30,000th career point as only he could; hitting a perfect fadeaway over Larry Nance Jr.

THE SHOT HEARD AROUND THE AAC! CONGRATS ON 30K DIRK!! pic.twitter.com/r8QoozVmxZ

— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) March 8, 2017

What a moment for Dirk, who now joins Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and Wilt Chamberlain as the only players in league history to reach the 30K mark. While Nowitzki’s 25 points came in the first half, Seth Curry added 18 (including four from beyond the arc) and Yogi Ferrell scored 16 to give Dallas their third straight W. Dirk received props from several fellow NBA players on Twitter, but this one had to feel nice:

Congrats @swish41 you are a true great #fadelikedirk

— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) March 8, 2017

Wizards 131 (37-24), Suns 127 (21-42)

In a game with some bad blood, the Wizards held off Phoenix, improving to 1.5 games ahead of Toronto for the third seed. It was hardly an easy W for Scott Brooks’ squad- Brandon Jennings was ejected in the first half and the Wizards squandered a 22-point lead- but John Wall was stellar over 37 minutes, and Bojan Bogdanovic scored 29 points off the bench.

Brooks summarized the game well:

“That was a wild game. That was like an old ABA game,” Brooks said. “Crazy.”

The post Post Up: Fade Like Dirk appeared first on SLAM.

https://twitter.com/World_Wide_Wob/status/839311171853283328

https://twitter.com/World_Wide_Wob/status/839314657416359938

The post Jared Dudley and Jason Smith Get Into Heated Argument appeared first on SLAM.

Brandon Jennings: 'I'm in the same position I was in NY but just a better system for me personally & a team that actually plays together.'

— Chase Hughes (@chasehughesCSN) March 4, 2017

The Wizards’ system is better-suited to his game, says Jennings.

The 27-year-old went scoreless and handed out a pair of assists in just under ten minutes.

Per CSN Mid-Atlantic:

“I’m glad I got this one out of the way. I wish we would have won of course, but I definitely know what I can do now. I have to be aggressive,” he said following the 114-106 loss.

 

Despite his disappointing debut, Jennings will not be discouraged moving forward. He thinks the Wizards are a good fit for him and he’s excited to be in a playoff race after leaving the lowly Knicks.

 

“I’m in the same position I was in New York, but just in a better system for me personally and with a team that actually plays together,” he said.

The post Brandon Jennings: Wizards a ‘Team That Actually Plays Together’ appeared first on SLAM.

The Washington Wizards are expected to sign the 27-year-old backup point guard to a contract today.

Brandon Jennings plans to travel to Washington, D.C. Wednesday to sign his deal with Wizards, league sources tell @TheVertical.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojVerticalNBA) February 28, 2017

John Wall says he’s excited to team up with the eight-year vet.

Per the WaPo:

Brandon Jennings, an eight-year veteran who was waived by the New York Knicks on Monday, has reached an agreement to join the Wizards for the remainder of the 2016-17 season, pending that he clear waivers. Teams with ample cap space or big enough trade exceptions to absorb Jennings and his $5 million salary for this year have until 5 p.m. Wednesday to claim him.

 

“He just brings a lot of energy,” John Wall said about Jennings. “He’s a guy that can pass the ball, he brings a lot of swag and can help us.”

 

Jennings has an interesting past with the Wizards. During a preseason game against them, Jennings got involved in a light confrontation with Casper Ware, a training camp invitee who was later cut. Jennings talked trash, delivered a hard foul and taunted Ware by enthusiastically clapping his hands while playing defense. Then, during the Nov. 17 meeting between the Wizards and the Knicks, Wall seemed to get revenge by mimicking the move — clapping his hands in Jennings’s face.

The post Washington Wizards to Sign Brandon Jennings appeared first on SLAM.

Knicks' center Joakim Noah is likely to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery and miss rest of season, league sources tell @TheVertical.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 27, 2017

Noah signed a four-year, $72 million deal with the Knicks over the summer and has largely underperformed, playing in just 46 games and averaging 22.1 minutes, 5.0 points, 8.8 boards, 2.2 assists and under a block per game.

The New York Daily News’  Frank Isola is reporting that there are rumblings of the Knicks also releasing Derrick Rose:

Lot of chatter around NBA that the Knicks might also release Derrick Rose. Would Phil really do that? Clearly, he's not afraid to be fired.

— Frank Isola (@TheFrankIsola) February 27, 2017

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The post Report: Joakim Noah Will Likely Undergo Knee Surgery, Miss Rest Of The Season appeared first on SLAM.

Thank you to all the Knicks fans for the love all year long, and thanks to my teammates and the organization.

— Brandon Jennings (@brandonjennings) February 27, 2017

New York will reportedly ink free agent guard Chasson Randle to take up Jennings’ spot.

The Knicks are planning to use Jennings roster spot to sign free agent guard Chasson Randle, league sources tell @TheVertical.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojVerticalNBA) February 27, 2017

76ers needed Randle's roster spot in Noel trade w/ Dallas, waived him Thursday. He'll sign partial guarantee through 2017-'18, sources say.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojVerticalNBA) February 27, 2017

Brandon Jennings told NYK recently he wanted to play for a playoff team, source said. NYK released the vet PG, plan to sign another. Woj 1st

— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpearsESPN) February 27, 2017

Jennings, 27, inked a one-year, $5 million deal with the Knicks last summer.

The post Report: Knicks Waiving Brandon Jennings appeared first on SLAM.

Since 1993, the tiny school of around 150 students has finished its season as the No. 1 HS team in the country eight times under the tutelage of head coach Steve Smith. The list of players who spent time at Oak Hill is long and impressive. Carmelo Anthony, Michael Beasley, Kevin Durant, Stephen Jackson, Brandon Jennings, Ty Lawson, Rajon Rondo, Josh Smith, Jerry Stackhouse and Rod Strickland are just a few of the many players who have suited up at Turner Gym before making their way to college and the NBA.

Unlike most traditional basketball programs, Oak Hill, part of Jordan Brand’s Class of XXXI, travels the country playing the best teams in the nation, with a roster that features some of the top prep players from both the US and Canada. A small town in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains isn’t exactly a prime location for a teenager, but the allure of the NBA and a shot to prove yourself against intense competition is enough to convince a handful of teenagers each year to pack up everything and leave their hometown for a shot at basketball greatness.

This season’s squad boasts four seniors who are ranked in the ESPN 100, and after going 45-1 and winning the DICK’s Sporting Goods High School National Tournament in dramatic fashion at Madison Square Garden in 2015-16, the Warriors are thinking repeat.

Big man Billy Preston, a Kansas commit and one of the most versatile players in the country, landed at Oak Hill after attending schools in Southern California and Dallas. At 6-10, 230, Preston has the ability to grab a defensive rebound, go coast-to-coast and finish with authority. The Los Angeles native, who is currently ranked No. 19 in the ESPN 100, isn’t short on confidence. He told USA Today, “There aren’t 19 players in the country better than me.”

Guard Lindell Wigginton (above) is the first hooper from Canada to play at Oak Hill. The 6-1, 165-pound future Iowa State Cyclone hails from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, and led the team in scoring the past two seasons. In last year’s national championship against La Lumiere (IN), Wigginton converted a huge three-point play in OT to help push Oak Hill to a 62-60 win. “He’s probably our best player right now,” Smith told Canada’s The Globe and Mail. “Lindell is a fierce competitor, you can see how he plays. He’s aggressive. He doesn’t mind getting hit, when he goes to the basket he wants to get hit, he wants to go to the foul line, he wants three-point plays. But he can shoot, too, he shoots pullups, he’s got the whole game.”

Wigginton’s backcourt mate, Matt Coleman, is a smooth floor general who made his commitment to Shaka Smart and Texas during the Hoophall Classic in mid-January. Dishing out 6.1 assists per game for the Warriors, Coleman has a similar flash to his game as fellow lefty and Oak Hill alum Brandon Jennings, and is the setup man the Longhorns have been missing during Smart’s tenure. “It’s the perfect fit,” Coleman (below) told ESPN. “I’m a point guard who makes plays.”

Ty-Shon Alexander, a 6-4 shooting guard who is on his way to Creighton, is the team’s long-distance threat—he’s shooting 40 percent from three-point range on the season. The Charlotte native earned his rep as a clutch player when he hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer to take down Sierra Canyon (CA) last season.

With a record of 32-4 record, Oak Hill ranks top-10 in the country this season just like they do every other year. Though they’ve already suffered four losses, it’s been more indicative of the rigorous national schedule they partake in than anything else. Competition like this is the reason why so many Oak Hill players go on to have successful basketball careers after high school. To be the best, you have to play against the best. Oak Hill players learn that at a young age.

In early February, the Warriors snapped the Ball Brothers-led Chino Hills (CA) High 60-game winning streak in a comeback victory that saw them erase a double-digit deficit to pull away with the 96-91 win.

More important than going up against the best teams in the nation, Oak Hill offers kids a chance to get their minds right and focus on nothing but hoops and academics.

“Oak Hill is really just about books and basketball,” Preston told USA Today. “No cellphones, no reception, my mom who I’ve been around every day my whole life isn’t around, nothing. It’s just woods and mountains and the gym. It’s made me grow up a lot.”

(Photos: Jon Lopez/Basketball Hall of Fame)

The post Virginia is for Ballers appeared first on SLAM.

“Our first meeting, he told me, I’m going to make you point guard. I looked at him like, What are you talking about?” Harden says, laughing over the phone earlier this season. “He told me I was going to average 15 assists a game, and I looked at him crazy.”

Fast-forward to the present, and Harden is averaging an NBA-best 11.4 assists per game. OK, so it’s not quite 15, but Harden—an explosive shooting guard for the entirety of his professional basketball life until now—is all of a sudden No. 1 in the League when it comes to dimes, ahead of All-Star PGs you’d expect to see atop that category, like Russell Westbrook and John Wall. Which, in addition to his still-insane scoring firepower, makes Harden the most unique offensive weapon in the NBA, and a frontrunner for MVP.

Who’s crazy now?

* * *

The Rockets are at MSG for an early November matchup with the Knicks. A night ago, Harden put up 41 points, 15 assists and 7 boards against the Cavs, albeit in a loss. His individual numbers through the first handful of games this season had him on such a ridiculous historical pace that his name was flashing next to Magic Johnson’s on SportsCenter. And on this night, in New York, he’s determined to get Houston a W.

On the game’s first possession, Harden finds free-agent acquisition Ryan Anderson for a wide-open three. Assist. A couple trips down the floor later, he waits for Clint Capela to slide behind a backscreen, then lobs him a pass over the top for an easy 2. Assist. He finds Trevor Ariza next. Another one. Harden will finish with 15 assists, to go with 30 points and 6 boards, and the Rockets cruise to a 19-point road win.

That Harden, unequivocally one of the League’s top-10 players, would march into The Mecca and put up gaudy numbers is, in and of itself, nothing of extraordinary note. But the ease with which he’s taken to playing the point, the way D’Antoni’s suddenly turned him into the best set-up man in the NBA? That shit is scary.

Eight seasons into his career, we take the points (28.9 per game, top-3 in the League) for granted. Not to mention Harden’s 8.2 rebounds per game this season, a new career-high. The assist numbers, though, those are making The Beard’s ’16-17 campaign something special, something downright artistic, something new and utterly terrifying for defenders who coulda swore they just figured out how to check him as a 2-guard.

Consider: While Harden remains one of the League’s most efficient offensive players among those using at least 30 percent of his team’s possessions (1.18 points per possession, behind only Isaiah Thomas and Kawhi Leonard), he also has an assist rate of 51 percent. That would be the second highest in the NBA since ’99-00 (surpassed only by Westbrook’s ridiculous 57 percent this year, too). Only three players have finished a season with an assist rate above 50 percent since 2000: Steve Nash, Chris Paul and Rajon Rondo, all traditional, pass-first PGs trained to play the position their whole lives—a position Harden is picking up on the fly while simultaneously operating as one of the most unstoppable scorers in the modern era.

Harden would be the toast of barbershops and basketball Twitter—places he’s previously been hated on, whether for his annoying amount of trips to the free-throw line or his often overblown defensive lapses—were it not for Westbrook’s otherworldly triple-double count stealing the spotlight. With 14 of his own this season, Harden usurped Hakeem Olajuwon as the Rockets’ franchise record holder for career triple-doubles—he’s up to 23 and counting as of press time.

He victimized the Knicks again in December on New Year’s Eve, this time with a career-high 53 points, career-high-tying 17 assists and 16 rebounds—just the second 50-point triple-double in the last 41 years of NBA ball (joining Westbrook) and the first time ever a player has put up 50+, 15+ and 15+ in a game. His 53 points tied Wilt Chamberlain for most ever scored in a triple-double.

“It was like NBA 2K numbers,” New York’s Brandon Jennings told reporters in Houston after that historic triple-double, part of a three-game stretch over which Harden totaled an absurd 106 points, 39 rebounds and 37 assists. “I just told him afterward to just go and get the MVP and keep balling and doing what he’s doing.”

A month later, on January 27, he did it again: 51 points, 13 rebounds and 13 assists against Philadelphia. Two 50+ triple-doubles in the same season? That’s a first.

James Harden has two 50-point triple-doubles in last 28 days.
The entire NBA went 15,258 days (from 1/19/75 to 10/28/16) w/o any such games

— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) January 28, 2017

Rockets owner Leslie Alexander called Harden “one of the great players of all time.” Even immovable Spurs coach Gregg Popovich confessed to ESPN that he only watches one team’s game tape: the Rockets, because “Harden is ridiculous.” The numbers are astronomical, and D’Antoni is fully cognizant of both the player he inherited and the monster he’s since created.

“For James, my expectations are really high, so I don’t know if he can exceed them, but he’s playing terrific. He’s taken over as point guard and he understands what we want, what we’re looking for, and he’s really smart about understanding the game. He’s everything as advertised.” Joking with reporters before the November win in NYC, D’Antoni said he was “hoping for like 60 and 20,” when it comes to Harden’s numbers, but “I’m only getting about 40 and 15.”

Looking back, Harden says that despite his initial quizzical reaction, he trusted in D’Antoni’s offensive genius from the moment the coach was hired by the team this past summer, replacing interim head coach JB Bickerstaff, who took over for Kevin McHale when the Rockets stumbled out of the gates last season.

“He knows his stuff, especially on the offensive end. He knows what he wants, and obviously it works,” Harden says, with a chuckle, of D’Antoni. “I’m getting more comfortable in the role. I’ve always been a playmaker, but he’s making my job a lot easier, not having to come down and work for the basketball. I get the ball already in my hands. I just come down and make sure our offense is flowing and get guys in the right position, and try to make the right play.”

In the simplest of basketball terms, it makes sense—why disguise what everyone in the arena knows: Harden’s going to eventually get the ball, probably in a pick-and-roll right down the middle of the floor.

“The good thing about him, he sees the game like a point guard,” D’Antoni says, admitting that moving James to PG was mostly “just the acknowledgement of the role.”

Likewise, Harden’s teammates didn’t bat an eye when he moved to the 1. “I was like, Cool,” says Rockets swingman Corey Brewer. “James makes plays anyways, so to me I think it’s an easy transition for him, because he has the ball in his hands most of the time.”

The obvious question is: How in the hell can Harden keep this up? Will he continue producing eye-popping stats, all the while shouldering the PG duties? In the middle of a playoff race? Of an MVP campaign?

The “how” may rest with Houston’s training staff, charged with keeping Harden healthy, or with Harden himself, who will have to stay locked in mentally beyond the All-Star break. But the “will” seems almost assuredly to be answered with a resounding Yes. Because in an era when his superstar peers routinely take time off to nurse nicks and bruises or conserve energy for a postseason run, Harden takes a refreshing pride in playing all 82—a feat he accomplished last season and hopes to repeat again this year.

“I’ve been playing basketball since I was a little kid,” he explains. “It’s going by fast. I don’t want to take time off. I love being on the court. I love helping my teammates. I love playing the game of basketball. I want to cherish it and be out there as long as I can, as much as I can.”

He continues: “It’s probably the most fun I’ve had since I’ve been in Houston. Just the entire team, the coaches and everything. It’s a good feeling. We’ve got a really good team—the personnel just fits. We’ve got guys that knock down shots, guys that really play well together. It kind of makes everybody look good.”

And with Houston hovering just behind the Warriors and Spurs in the Western Conference (38-17), he’s right. Anderson is shooting 40 percent from three-point range. Eric Gordon is having a kind of career-redefining renaissance off the bench, so much so that Harden has publicly championed EG as a “for sure” All-Star. Only Golden State scores more points per game than Houston, and the Rockets rank in the top six in the League in both field-goal percentage. They’re No. 1 in threes made—the foursome of Harden, Anderson, Gordon and Ariza has combined to hit more threes than any other NBA team’s whole roster in 2016-17, save for the Cavaliers.

For a team that finished .500 last season with Dwight Howard, Donatas Motiejunas and other since-departed names playing key roles, the Rockets have completely flipped the script, emerging as real contenders. Harden is still the team’s best player, its leader and primary scorer. But his move to the 1, however obvious a change it may seem in hindsight, has ignited Houston’s title chances.

Whatever position he’s listed at, Harden maintains, “I’m a player. I’m a basketball player. Point guard, shooting guard, small forward, whatever. I’m on the court, and I just want to make an impact on the game.”

Technically, though, that “PG” moniker now precedes Harden’s name in every box score. And while that might still give everyone else in the League pause—just as it did Harden himself at first—D’Antoni is using it to unleash every ounce of his superstar’s offensive arsenal this season. So far, the joke is on the rest of the NBA.

—

Abe Schwadron is a Senior Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter @abe_squad.

Photos via Getty Images

The post Turning Point appeared first on SLAM.

The Hawks entered halftime with a 65-39 lead and never looked back, blowing out the Magic behind a combined 42 points from Paul Millsap and Tim Hardaway Jr. Orlando shot a dreadful 34.6% from the field on the night, falling to a 3-7 mark over their last 10 games.

Look at where Bazemore is at the start of this alley-oop… pic.twitter.com/pvhOjw13HC

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) February 5, 2017

Wizards 105 (30-20), Pelicans 91 (19-32)

Are the Wizards ever going to lose at home again? Washington outscored the Pelicans 25-8 in the fourth quarter, cruising to their 17th straight victory at the Verizon Center. John Wall had 25 points with 13 dimes, Markieff Morris added 18, and Marcin Gortat grabbed 17 boards with 12 points. As has been the case throughout the season, the Pels lacked offensive firepower behind Anthony Davis; despite nearly tallying a triple-double, Jrue Holiday shot 5-of-17 from the field.

Pacers 105 (28-22), Pistons 84 (23-28)

The Pacers cruised to their sixth straight victory, as Paul George scored a team-high 21 points and Lavoy Allen added a double-double (18p, 11r). Indiana went on a 20-5 run in the third quarter, signaling defeat for Marcus Morris (19 points, six boards) and the Pistons. Despite emerging with the W, Pacers coach Nate McMillan wasn’t thrilled with his team’s effort.

“We just felt like we didn’t establish ourselves defensively, giving up 58 points, in the first half,” coach Nate McMillan said. “Way too many points to be giving up. I thought we responded in the second half and I though the defense got stronger with each quarter.”

Heat 125 (21-30), 76ers 102 (18-32)

Hassan Whiteside had a field day with the Joel Embiid-less 76ers, scoring 30 points with 20 rebounds. Dion Waiters scored 21 while Goran Dragic and Tyler Johnson tallied 16 points apiece, blowing out Ersan Ilyasova (21 points) and the Sixers. The legend of Dion Waiters continued to grow after the game:

After tonight's game I asked Dion Waiters a question about his confidence level. His answer lasted nearly 4 minutes. Here it is. Enjoy. pic.twitter.com/kqjRLRuJJj

— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) February 5, 2017

Cavaliers 111 (34-15), Knicks 104 (22-30)

Give the Knicks credit for fighting back; entering halftime facing a 64-45 deficit, it appeared the Knicks would flounder in this primetime match-up. Brandon Jennings turned in a 23-point performance and Courtney Lee added 17, but LeBron James (32p, 10a) and the Cavs were ultimately able to protect their lead after a rocky second half. Carmelo Anthony was hearing it from the crowd for parts of the game, and appears to be fed up with the MSG boobirds.

https://youtu.be/TFpYC9BYYI4

Grizzlies 107 (31-22), Timberwolves 99 (19-32)

It was a somber day in Minnesota, as the Timberwolves absorbed a close loss after learning Zach LaVine would be out for the year with a torn left ACL. Karl-Anthony Towns double-doubled with 27 points and 16 rebounds, but the T’Wolves blew a 31-15 first quarter lead in their third straight defeat. JaMychal Green led the Grizzlies in this one, going off for a career-high 29 points with six boards.

https://youtu.be/bYEAydxI-sk

Jazz 105 (32-19), Hornets 98 (23-28)

The Jazz rallied back from a 10-point fourth quarter deficit to go on a 19-4 run, handing Charlotte their seventh straight defeat. Gordon Hayward dropped 33 points on 13/20 shooting, George Hill added 25, and Joe Johnson scored 18. Recent acquisition Miles Plumlee made his Hornets debut, scoring four points with eight boards.

Spurs 121 (39-11), Nuggets 97 (22-28)

With Saturday’s win, Gregg Popovich became the winningest coach in NBA history with an individual team (1,128 victories). Aside from a banner 20-point night from Jamal Murray, the Nuggets appeared outmatched from the jump; getting outscored 65-47 in the second half. Kawhi Leonard, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, and Jonathan Simmons each scored at least 18 points. Following the W, Parker delivered props to his legendary coach.

“Growing up, Jerry Sloan was one of the big names, watching the (NBA) Finals and stuff like that,” Parker said. “To have Pop up there, he’s going to keep it going. It looks like he’s not getting tired at all. He’s not going to stop anytime soon.”

Bucks 137 (22-28), Suns 112 (16-35)

Devin Booker went off for 27 points in the second quarter…and the Suns still lost by 25. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 18 of his 30 points in the first quarter and Mirza Teletovic added 19 in the victory. Marquese Chriss achieved a milestone in the loss, recording a career-high 27 points.

https://youtu.be/wxTeTo3vzEE

Kings 109 (20-31), Warriors 106 (43-8)

Draymond Green made his return to the lineup, but Golden State absorbed an overtime defeat at the Golden 1 Center. Kevin Durant had a rare off-night, scoring just 10 points on 2-of-10 shooting from the field. DeMarcus Cousins recorded a double-double (32p, 12r) and Willie Cauley-Stein lived up to his promise off the bench, scoring 14 points in 17 minutes. The Warriors played most of the second half without their head coach, as a livid Steve Kerr was ejected in the third quarter.

https://youtu.be/9MKFfExRBsM

The post Post Up: Royal Upset appeared first on SLAM.

Sac-Town led for most of the game, building a 16-point lead in the third quarter. Indiana began to fight back, though, behind six straight points from Paul George to finish regulation. George led the charge but he didn’t do it alone. Jeff Teague had 17 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists and the two game-sealing free throws with 2 seconds remaining in overtime.

Cavs 124 (31-14), Nets 116 (9-37)

The Cavs used a 39-point second quarter to break this one open. Kyrie Irving scored 20 in the frame and made three buckets to end the third that got the crowd into the game. Irving finished with 28. LeBron James had 31 points and 11 assists and Kevin Love had 13 points and 14 rebounds. The Cavs had lost their last three games.

Kyrie stops on a dime. pic.twitter.com/gxCaeRMqZ4

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 28, 2017

Celtics 128 (28-18), Magic 98 (18-30)

Boston built a 40-point lead tonight. They made 16 three-pointers and shot 56% from the floor, dishing out a season-high 39 assists on a season-high 50 field goals. Every Celtic scored, led by Isaiah Thomas’ 21 points, Marcus Smart’s 11 assists and Jaylen Brown’s 8 rebounds.

(via @Marc_DAmico) pic.twitter.com/i3irLi14FX

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 28, 2017

Raptors 102 (29-18), Bucks 86 (21-25)

DeMar DeRozan sat with a nagging right ankle injury tonight, but Kyle Lowry didn’t need his help. The Raptors made sure to get Giannis Antetokounmpo in foul trouble and took advantage of his absence. Lowry had 12 points and 3 assists in the game’s first eight minutes. He ended up with 32 and the Raptors led from the middle of the first quarter, holding Milwaukee to 38% shooting.

Knicks 110 (21-27), Hornets 107 (23-24)

With trade rumors and boos swirling around Carmelo Anthony, the superstar stepped up to deliver a big-time clutch bucket. He and Kristaps Porzingis both had 18 points, Courtney Lee had 16, Brandon Jennings had 15 and Derrick Rose had 13. The ‘Bockers outscored Charlotte by nine over the last 8 minutes of the game, overcoming five ties and six lead changes.

Kristaps dunks are real entertaining. pic.twitter.com/07U1xwFQ4U

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 28, 2017

Rockets 123 (35-15), Sixers 118 (17-28)

James Harden stands alone as the only player in NBA history to ever have two 50-point triple-doubles. TWO. His last 50-point triple-double came on New Year’s Eve against the Knicks.

Tonight, Harden scored 36 points in the second half, winding up with 2 steals, 1 block and 13 rebounds and 13 assists. He shot 16-28 from the field, 6-11 from three and 13-14 from the foul line.

Despite a big game from Joel Embiid (32 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks), Harden was never fazed by a raucous Philly crowd that included Allen Iverson and Kevin Hart.

The Rockets shot 27-28 from the line and won the rebounding battle 41-29. The Sixers had their six-game home winning streak snapped.

.@KevinHart4real is just too much. pic.twitter.com/iNxxL38zfA

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 28, 2017

Heat 100 (17-30), Bulls 88 (23-25)

The Bulls are spiraling outta control. Fred Hoiberg didn’t start Jimmy Butler or Dwyane Wade after their comments from earlier this week. Then they went out to shoot 3-13 from distance, 42% from the field, turn the ball over 20 times, and trail to the lowly Heat by 20 at home.

Miami’s won six in a row. Tonight, they were led by Goran Dragic’s 26 points, 11 assists and 3 steals. Wade had 15 and Butler shot just 1-13 for 3 points.

”We obviously had a very emotional day,” Hoiberg said. ”It’s not an excuse for how we played. It’s the worst game we’ve played all year, in my opinion.”

Pelicans 119 (19-28), Spurs 103 (36-10)

The Pels built a 21-point lead late in the game thanks to a 34-19 fourth quarter. Jrue Holiday had 23 points, 11 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks and Anthony Davis tied a career-high with 22 boards. Terrence Jones came off the bench for 21 points. San Antonio shot 38%, the second lowest of the season.

.@Jrue_Holiday11 toying with the rookie. (via @PelicansNBA) pic.twitter.com/jhc9q19uJ5

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 28, 2017

Wizards 112 (26-20), Hawks 86 (27-20)

The Wizards led for the whole game, by as much as 30. They won the rebound, steal, assist and block battles. Otto Porter shot 5-7 from distance for his 21 points and he also had 11 boards. John Wall added 19 points and 9 dimes. Bradley Beal, Marcin Gortat and Markieff Morris all scored 15 points.

John Wall's hezzy is dangerous. pic.twitter.com/zt6oebtZPs

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 28, 2017

Blazers 112 (21-27), Grizzlies 109 (27-21)

Damian Lillard scored 13 straight points late in the fourth quarter to save the game for Portland. The Blazers were up by as much as 18, but the Grizz fought back to take a 3 point advantage. Portland made 16 three-pointers. Allen Crabbe shot 6-8 from outside off the bench and CJ McCollum had 18. Marc Gasol scored 32, his third straight game of at least 30 points, tying a franchise record.

The post Post Up: Making History appeared first on SLAM.

The Cavs hit 19 three-pointers and dished out 29 assists to route the Suns. Kyrie Irving led Cleveland with 26 and LeBron James had 21 points, 15 assists and 9 boards, too. Kevin Love sat with a sore back.

Double-clutch reverse from @KingJames. Damn. pic.twitter.com/RvBFEuK8cI

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 20, 2017

Heat 99 (13-30), Mavs 95 (14-28)

The Mavs came into this one winners of three straight, their longest streak of the season. They traded blows with the Heat, with the lead changing hands four times and the score being tied eight times. Goran Dragic’s 32 points was eventually too much for Dallas to overcome. The Dragon shot 11-15 from the field and got help from Tyler Johnson, who had 23 points off the bench.

Wizards 113 (23-19), Knicks 110 (19-25)

The Wizards jumped out to a 38-point first quarter, but the Knicks dropped 40 in the second to take a 67-66 lead at halftime. Carmelo Anthony exploded for 25 in that second quarter, bullying and shaking defenders. Then Washington stole the lead back, up 100-86 going into in the fourth quarter. The Knicks stormed back behind big plays from Anthony, Derrick Rose and Kristaps Porzingis.

New York led 110-109 with 48 seconds. Wall then made a pair of free throws and silenced the crowd with a stellar behind-the-back move and dunk. The Wizards led by three with 13.7 second left and the Knicks had the ball. They couldn’t even get a shot up, though. Wall stole the ball as Brandon Jennings tried to tie the game.

Wall finished with 29 points, 13 assists and 3 steals. Otto Porter Jr. made 6 three’s on his way to 23 points. Four other Wizards scored in double-figures. They had 29 assists on 44 field goals.

Melo finished with 34 points, Rose had 20 and KP had 15, but the Knicks have now won only three games in 2017.

That's how you seal a game. @JohnWall finishes with 29 points and 13 assists in the Wizards' 113-110 win. pic.twitter.com/61ZpNtvLcL

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 20, 2017

Spurs 118 (33-9), Nuggets 104 (17-24)

The Spurs used a 15-0 run to open the third quarter to take a commanding lead. Kawhi Leonard had 34 points for his fifth consecutive game of at least 30 points. Nikola Jokic went off for a career-high 35.

Kawhi pulls out a Kobe move. pic.twitter.com/5xj5Sq1zgD

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 20, 2017

Wolves 104 (15-28), Clippers 101 (29-15)

Karl-Anthony Towns scored 15 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Wolves back from a 12-point deficit in Los Angeles. Towns had 37, 12 rebounds and 5 assists for the game, beating DeAndre Jordan’s 29 points (career-high) and 16 rebounds.

Gotta box out @KarlTowns. pic.twitter.com/sXMkTMPwLg

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 20, 2017

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Video courtesy of FreeDawkins 

The post John Wall Lights Up MSG for 29 Points and 13 Assists appeared first on SLAM.

The Knicks PR Twitter account later announced that Rose was “not with the team” and Brandon Jennings would be starting in his place:

Brandon Jennings is starting tonight versus @PelicansNBA – Derrick Rose is not with the team.

— NY_KnicksPR (@NY_KnicksPR) January 10, 2017

By halftime of the game, there was no reason behind Rose’s absence from the game and according to Woj, Knicks teammates, officials and associates of Rose did not know why he was not in the building:

Sources: There are team officials, teammates and close associates unclear of reason for Derrick Rose's absence for Knicks-Pelicans at MSG.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 10, 2017

Rose was benched during the fourth quarter of Friday’s win over the Bucks, but Woj is reporting that it is too early to tell if the two happenings are related:

As you'd expect, sources say Rose was unhappy with fourth quarter benching on Friday in Milwaukee — but unclear if that's impacted absence.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 10, 2017

Related
WATCH: Derrick Rose Still Has Springs, Dunks Against Pelicans

The post Derrick Rose Absent From Knicks For Reasons Unknown appeared first on SLAM.

After snapping a six-game skid against the Bucks on Friday, the Knicks absorbed another tough defeat in Indiana on Saturday. Kristaps Porzingis committed five turnovers in a 16-point showing, while Carmelo Anthony and Brandon Jennings tallied 17 points apiece. Paul George and Jeff Teague led Indiana’s scoring with 19 points each.

Per the NY Post, the Knicks are now 0-7 in second games of back-to-back contests this season.

Pacers are at the magic 110 point mark, in which they are 13-1 when hitting this season.

— Pat Boylan (@PatBoylanPacers) January 8, 2017

Celtics 117 (22-14), Pelicans 108 (14-24)

Entering Saturday’s game averaging 30.7 points over his last six games, Isaiah Thomas dropped 38 points in a win over Anthony Davis (36 points, 15 rebounds) and the Pelicans. Marcus Smart added 22 points, including five from beyond the arc, and Gerald Green chipped in 15 off the bench. Donatas Motiejunas made his Pelicans debut, scoring 11 points.

https://youtu.be/iPf_vRSVBDg

Thunder 121 (22-16), Nuggets 106 (14-23)

Russell Westbrook recorded 18 triple-doubles last season…following Saturday’s 32p/17r/11a stat line, he’s only one shy of that total this year. Steven Adams contributed 16 points on the night, while Victor Oladipo and Enes Kanter combined for 29. The Nuggets, who played without Nikola Jokic or Gary Harris last night, will look to regroup against the Pacers on Thursday.

Stein: Nuggets "openly shopping" Jusuf Nurkic and others https://t.co/w2Q1UssEtf

— Denver Stiffs (@denverstiffs) January 7, 2017

Jazz 94 (23-15), Timberwolves 92 (11-25)

Tom Thibodeau recently remarked his team is “finding new ways to lose,” and Saturday’s match-up against Utah was no exception. Despite solid performances from Zach LaVine and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Jazz ended Saturday’s game on an 11-0 run.

Rudy Gobert with the in Utah's come-from-behind win. https://t.co/Vs4HU1x134

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 8, 2017

The T’Wolves now own a gaudy 2-7 mark over their last nine games.

Bulls 123 (19-18), Raptors 118 (24-12)

In an overtime thriller, Jimmy Butler’s 42 points lifted Chicago over Kyle Lowry (27 points, 12 boards) and the Raptors. DeMar DeRozan had 36 points in the close loss, and Dwyane Wade added 20 for the Bulls. Fred Hoiberg has continued to leave Rajon Rondo out of his rotations, which could lead to an awkward moment Monday night.

Rajon Rondo bobblehead night is Monday at the United Center

— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) January 8, 2017

Spurs 102 (30-7), Hornets 85 (20-18)

Entering Saturday, Davis Bertans’ previous career-high was 15 points; the 24-year-old had only scored in double-digits twice this season. Bertans went off for 21 points against Charlotte, however, including this impressive slam:

https://vine.co/v/5VLUFKJUaVB

Kawhi Leonard scored 19 points in the W, and LaMarcus Aldridge added 15 points with 11 boards. The Hornets felt Nic Batum’s absence on the offensive end, scoring just 35 second half points.

Hawks 97 (21-16), Mavericks 82 (11-26)

Everyone knows the Hawks are in sell mode, but Mike Budenholzer’s squad improved to a six-game winning streak against the Mavericks. Paul Millsap scored 17 points with nine rebounds, Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 22 and Dennis Schroder added 20. If the team continues their hot play, will GM Wes Wilcox reconsider trading impending free agent Paul Millsap?

Mike Budenholzer comments on Hawks direction https://t.co/zMpuWOOGzi

— Peachtree Hoops (@peachtreehoops) January 7, 2017

The post Post Up: Overtime Buckets appeared first on SLAM.

Mike Conley remained questionable to play right until the opening tip, but wound up scoring 22 points with eight boards in Memphis’ second straight W. The Grizzlies shot the lights out in this one, netting 17-of-35 shots from beyond the arc (including four from JaMychal Green). DeMarcus Cousins may not have had the most productive night – racking up five fouls before the end of the third quarter – but Boogie provided an entertaining with Z-Bo early on.

Boogie trying to take Zbo one-on-one after the whistle pic.twitter.com/lA9CkgEoZk

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 31, 2016

Bucks 116 (16-16), Bulls 96 (16-18)

Malcolm Brogdon became the first rookie this season to record a triple-double, going off for 15 points, 12 dimes and 11 boards through 29 minutes. Giannis Antetokounmpo stole the show in this one however; just look at his stat line.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is off the charts good. He had 35 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 7 blocks tonight.

— Frank Isola (@TheFrankIsola) January 1, 2017

Combining Antetokounmpo and Brogdon’s efforts with a 27-point night from Jabari Parker, and the Bucks had little trouble putting away the slumping Bulls. Coach Fred Hoiberg benched Rajon Rondo through the entirety of Saturday’s game, which didn’t sit well with the hot-headed veteran.

But Rondo conceded he’s not a great fit for the way the Bulls currently are playing.

 

“I’m most effective when we get stops,” he said. “I’m able to get on the break and create and do what I do best and not in a slowdown game when teams load the paint on us.”

 

Asked if he feels he’s being singled out, Rondo answered cryptically.

 

“I’m Rajon Rondo,” he said. “It is what it is.”

Cavaliers 121 (25-7), Hornets 109 (19-15)

The J.R. Smith and Kyrie Irving-less Cavs took care of business in Charlotte, shooting over 50% from the field in a win over Kemba Walker (37 points) and the Hornets. Jordan McRae made the most of his spot start in the backcourt, scoring 20 points, including three treys. Kay Felder impressed as well off the bench.

https://youtu.be/CZkXciI7IHA

Rockets 129 (25-9), Knicks 122 (16-17)

The Knicks were hard-pressed to compete in this one, entering Saturday’s road match-up without Kristaps Porzingis or Courtney Lee. Despite getting outscored 42-23 in the second quarter, Jeff Hornacek’s squad managed to keep the game relatively close; thanks largely to a breakout performance from Brandon Jennings, who received his first start alongside Derrick Rose.

https://youtu.be/60XM46SAB4o

James Harden lit the Knicks up, however, shooting 14-of-26 from the field in the NBA’s first ever 50-15-15 triple-double. Harden’s career-high 53 points tied Wilt Chamberlain for the most points scored in a triple-double.

James Harden speaking about his historic performance. First player ever to post a 50-15-15 stat line. #Rockets50 pic.twitter.com/92ykeZWUb6

— Alykhan Bijani (@Rockets_Insider) January 1, 2017

Thunder 114 (21-13), Clippers 88 (22-14)

This one got ugly in a hurry for Doc Rivers and the Clippers. Russell Westbrook completed his triple-double within the first half, finishing the night with 17 points, 14 assists and 12 rebounds (and just one turnover!). Enes Kanter came off the bench to score a game-high 23 points, taking advantage of the short-handed Clippers.

I'm getting this strange impression Chris Paul and Blake Griffin are important to the success of the Clippers.

— Royce Young (@royceyoung) January 1, 2017

Jazz 91 (21-13), Suns 86 (10-24)

Devin Booker turned in a quality 20-point performance with eight boards and eight dimes, but the Jazz escaped with their third straight W. Utah began the game with a healthy starting five, but it didn’t last long; George Hill left after taking an elbow to the face at the end of the first quarter. Nevertheless, Gordon Hayward and Rudy Gobert each tallied 18 points and Rodney Hood added 13 to wrap up the victory.

The post Post Up: Historic Harden appeared first on SLAM.

Previously:
Week of December 10 – December 16
Week of December 3 – December 9

The post NBA Tweets of the Week appeared first on SLAM.

Isaiah Thomas went off for 14 points in the fourth, finishing with a total of 28. Before that, the Cs held the Pacers to just nine second quarter points. They were up by 4 with just five minutes remaining in the game. Then a pair of Al Horford free throws and a pair of buckets from Thomas put the game out of reach for Indiana. Jeff Teague had 31 points and 8 assists in the loss.

Warriors 117 (26-4), Nets 101 (7-21)

Brook Lopez went off for 23 points in the first half and the Nets racked up a 65-49 advantage. Then they committed 11 turnovers in the third and were outscored 39-19, being totally outperformed by the Dubs. Kevin Durant had 26, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 steals and 0 turnovers in the win.

KD with the crossover and dime. https://t.co/jaNebtrzVN

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) December 23, 2016

Knicks 106 (16-13), Magic 95 (13-18)

The Knicks used a balanced team effort to earn a quality win against the Magic. Six players scored in double-digits, led by Derrick Rose’s 19. Kyle O’Quinn had 14 points and 16 rebounds off the bench, Brandon Jennings had 12 of the ‘Bockers 26 assists. Kristaps Porzingis exited the game early in the fourth with a right knee contusion.

Heat 115 (10-20), Lakers 107 (11-21)

The Lakers built a 19-point lead for the second consecutive game. And for the second consecutive game, that 19-point lead resulted in a loss.

The Heat got 23 points and 13 rebounds from both Hassan Whiteside and Justise Winslow, 21 from Goran Dragic and a combined 33 from James Johnson and Tyler Johnson off the bench. The young squad was flying all over the court, winning the rebounding, assist and blocks matchup.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said that his squad might have been inspired by Shaquille O’Neal’s jersey retirement ceremony. Speeches from Pat Riley and Shaq brought up memories of a now bygone era of championship success. The Big Aristotle thanked Udonis Haslem and Alonzo Mourning individually and looked like he was fighting back tears.

Josh Richardson! https://t.co/51dVP5ulPu

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) December 23, 2016

Clippers 106 (22-8), Spurs 101 (23-6)

The Clippers bench exploded for 58 combined points. For comparison, the Spurs’ reserves only totaled 33. Kawhi Leonard had a great game, finishing with 27 points and 9 rebounds, but he didn’t get much help. LaMarcus Aldridge only scored 10 points.

Even though he left the game in the third quarter because of a strained hammy, Chris Paul led the Clippers with 19 points and 6 assists.

.@JCrossover gives us yet another example of why he has the perfect nickname. https://t.co/QGBCbKPwVv

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) December 23, 2016

The post Post Up: South Beach’s Big Night appeared first on SLAM.

It was the TJ McConnell show in Detroit tonight, with the young point guard coming up one assist shy of a triple-double (12p, 10r, 9a). Philly won the first quarter 32-12 and didn’t look back. The Pistons, who were led by Marcus Morris’ 28, tried to make a comeback in the second half, but never really threatened. Nerlens Noel returned to action for the 76ers, putting up 8 points in 10 minutes.

Thunder 99 (15-9), Celtics 96 (13-11)

The triple-double streak ended at 7 (two shy of the record held by Wilt Chamberlain), but Russell Westbrook still poured in 37 points, 12 boards, and 6 assists and led OKC to a victory over the Celtics. Horford had 19, and Crowder and Bradley each contributed 18. Don’t look now, but the Thunder have now won seven of their last eight games.

Warriors 116 (21-4), Timberwolves 108 (6-18)

Minnesota closed the third quarter on a 14-1 run and held a ten point advantage heading into the fourth. But it was all downhill from there. The Warriors won the final period 38-20 and avoided their first set of consecutive regular-season losses since 2015. Klay Thompson was the catalyst for Golden State, scoring 12 in the first 5 minutes of the fourth and 30 overall. Towns had 25 points and 18 boards for the Wolves, including some major highlights:

Despite the big numbers Towns has been putting up, Minnesota has now lost four in a row and 18 out of 24 this season.

Pelicans 120 (8-17), Suns 119 (7-17)

It was a thriller in Phoenix. Behind a triple-double from Tim Frazier (14p, 11a, 11r) and 23 points from Jrue Holiday, the Pelicans came from behind to beat the Suns in OT. P.J. Tucker did a great job defending Anthony Davis, holding the big fella to just 14 on 4-17 shooting. But the rest of the Pels stepped up, overcoming another 30+ point performance from Eric Bledsoe (32p, 8a, 3r).

Knicks 118 (14-10), Lakers 112 (10-16)

Unicorn alert. Kristaps Porzingis recorded an impressive 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 blocks, and had fans thinking he was a guard:

New York’s actual point guards, Derrick Rose and Brandon Jennings, combined for 44. Louis Williams continued to get buckets for the Lakers, dropping 24 in 26 minutes. The Knicks have won four straight on the road.

The post Post Up: Still Winning appeared first on SLAM.

A Little Keepsake from this guy! Unreal Night! pic.twitter.com/IOEtSx89JB

— Stephen Curry (@StephenCurry30) December 6, 2016

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The post NBA Reacts to Klay Thompson’s 60-Point Night appeared first on SLAM.

Derrick Rose sealed the win with a step-back jumper.

Damian Lillard scored 22 points for the Trail Blazers and CJ McCollum added 16 points.

Per the AP:

“I’m not here to bust or brag but I’m used to being in positions where I have the ball in my hand, playing in Chicago,” Rose said. “I’ve really played like that my entire life, through grammar school, high school, college and here.”

 

Porzingis had 31 points and nine rebounds and Rose scored six of his 18 points down the stretch. Brandon Jennings had 11 assists off the bench as the Knicks won their fifth straight at home.

 

“That’s why we came here,” Jennings said. “We came here to win.”

The post WATCH: Kristaps Porzingis Drops 31 Points on the Blazers appeared first on SLAM.

Ten games into the season, and there already may not be any hope left in Washington. Credit the Sixers for defending their home court, and shout to Jahlil Okafor for putting up 19 points in 20 minutes, but no team should be beat down by Philadelphia. On the bright side, Otto Porter has put together a string of really nice games, including 15 points, 13 boards and 4 steals vs Philly.

Pelicans 82 (2-10), Magic 89 (5-7)

An overall ugly game, Orlando did enough to come out with the W. But as Aaron Gordon said after the game, the Magic have to improve in virtually every facet. It’s still early, but the pieces in Orlando just don’t seem to be fitting together.

Cavs 93 (9-2), Pacers 103 (6-6)

Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving combined for 51 points, but the Cavs couldn’t find anyone else to step up offensively without LeBron James and JR Smith in the lineup. Paul George and Jeff Teague both had nice games for the home team, dropping 21 and 20 points, respectively.

Mavs 83 (2-8), Celtics 90 (6-5)

Any self-respecting basketball fan knows not to underestimate Dirk Nowitzki and Rick Carlisle in Dallas, but let’s be honest—the Mavs’ slow start may keep them out of the playoffs this season. Boston, who were once again without Al Horford and Jae Crowder, got another dominant fourth-quarter out of Isaiah Thomas, who dropped 22 in the period (30 on the night).

In Boston's last two games, @Isaiah_Thomas has scored 40 fourth-quarter points. https://t.co/m582piXpCv

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 17, 2016

Pistons 102 (6-6), Knicks 105 (5-6)

The Garden has been filled with boos a lot recently and Phil Jackson has been a PR disaster. But even all that couldn’t tremendous promise displayed by Kristaps Porzingis. KP went off for 35 points (25 in the first half), and looked utterly dominant throughout the game. It looked too easy for Porzingis went he ran the length of the floor and threw down an incredible alley-oop from Brandon Jennings.

https://vine.co/v/5T1AYvjnZl6

Bucks 100 (5-5), Hawks 107 (9-2)

The Hawks are seriously good. Perhaps not East finals-contenders good, but they’re looking like a great regular season team. Without Dwight Howard, on the second night of a back-to-back, Atlanta beat a solid Bucks team with a great team win. Rookie Taurean Prince saw 19 minutes and made a nice impression on Hawks fans:

https://vine.co/v/5T1qbTQQ5iZ

Rockets 103 (6-5), Thunder 105 (7-5)

The first meeting between early season MVP favorites Russell Westbrook and James Harden did not disappoint. Westbrook iced the game with a ferocious left-handed jam on Clint Capela, giving OKC a five-point lead with 5.5 seconds remaining. Harden, although his shot wasn’t falling, handed out 13 dimes.

https://vine.co/v/5TnW95dTHK9

Warriors 127 (9-2), Raptors 121 (7-4)

There was a lot of good-natured trash talking. There was an epic Doris Burke t-shirt. And there was just too much Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant for the Raptors to withstand. Drake Night in Toronto ended with a loss, but hey, at least DeMar DeRozan remained unstoppable, dropping 34 points on the night.

.@Drake keepin' it pic.twitter.com/wOeQLdnOnk

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 17, 2016

Suns 104 (3-9), Nuggets 120 (4-7)

Wilson Chandler beasted to the tune of 28 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists off the bench against a Phoenix team that provided practically no resistance. Devin Booker (24 points) was ejected with less than 18 seconds left in the ballgame, and signed an autograph on his way to the locker room like a boss:

https://vine.co/v/5TnY69dxduh

Spurs 110 (9-3), Kings 105 (4-8)

Things are quickly spiraling out of control in Sacramento. And while the Kings were never expected to beat San Antonio, they just didn’t seem to put in the effort to make the game competitive. Pau Gasol had another nice night against Boogie Cousins, leading the Spurs with 24 points.

Grizzlies 111 (6-5), Clippers 107 (10-2)

Marc Gasol hit a three-pointer with 14 seconds remaining to propel Memphis to victory. The win was even more impressive considering Chandler Parsons sat out the second half with a bum knee, and the game was being played in the Clippers building. After the go-ahead trey, Gasol walked off like a boss:

.@MarcGasol with the Conor McGregor swag walk https://t.co/Fk7t5PYuSu

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 17, 2016

The post Post Up: Spanish McGregor appeared first on SLAM.

At one point, Porzingis caught an incredible alley-oop from Brandon Jennings, turned around and shot a stare that all but said, “This is too easy.”

https://vine.co/v/5T1JUvg11M7

By halftime, Porzingis had 25 points on just 11 shots.

RELATED:
Kristaps Porzingis Hit a Dirk Nowitzki Fadeaway and Stared Him Down

The post Kristaps Porzingis Stares Down Opponent After Alley-Oop Dunk appeared first on SLAM.

As has been reported ad nauseam, Russell was caught up in drama last season when he filmed teammate Nick Young revealing that he was cheating on his then girlfriend Iggy Azalea. The incident doesn’t seem to be much of an issue in the Lakers locker room these days, but Russell has unfortunately developed a reputation as a “snitch” around the League.

In Sacramento on Thursday night, the point guard was making his way out of the locker room towards the court when a fan held a sign that said “D’Angelo Leaked Hillary [Clinton’s] E-Mail.” Upon seeing the sign, Russell told the fan to, “suck my d*ck.”

Russell got the last laugh when went out and dropped 17 points to lead the Lakers to a 101-91 win.

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WATCH: Los Angeles Lakers Dominate in 117-97 Win Over Warriors
SLAM Week in Review: Lakers Steal the Show
D’Angelo Russell: ‘There’s Freedom in Kobe Not Being Around’

The post WATCH: D’Angelo Russell Yells At Fan Holding ‘Snitch’ Sign appeared first on SLAM.

At the start of Friday, the Sixers were the League’s last winless team. They’ve been without Ben Simmons, of course, and have had Joel Embiid and Jahlil Okafor playing restricted minutes. But throughout it all, they gave the Thunder a scare, almost beat the Magic and lost to the Cavs by 1. They were due for a win.

Riding 16 fourth quarter and overtime points from the Process, the Sixers outlasted the Pacers for a 109-105 victory tonight. Embiid did it all, even nailing a clutch three, on his way to 25 points in 25 minutes. Paul George played 40 minutes and scored 26 points, but he couldn’t get the Pacers over the hump.

Is there anything Embiid can't do?! https://t.co/lxDyWRV42W

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 12, 2016

Cavs 105 (7-1), Wizards 94 (2-6)

The Wizards were without Bradley Beal in this one (strained hammy) and the Cavs took advantage. John Wall had 28 points, but only 3 assists, partly due to the Cavs defense. While JR Smith and his squad hit 14 shots from distance, the Wizards only made 3 from outside the arc. Smith hit 5 three-pointers, finishing with 17 points. Kevin Love had 14 and 16, while Kyrie Irving led the game in scoring with his 29 points. The night’s big story, however, was LeBron James reaching the 27,000 point plateau. Bronny, at 31, becomes the youngest to do it, surpassing Kobe Bryant who did it at 32-years-old.

LeBron hits the 27,000 point mark. pic.twitter.com/UqrBz2b1Eb

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 12, 2016

Raptors 113 (6-2), Hornets 111 (6-2)

The Hornets had a 10-point lead in the fourth, thanks to a monster game from Kemba Walker. The Bronx native had 40 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists tonight (first player in Hornets history with that line), up from his already impressive season averages of 24/3/6. Then the League’s leading scorer took over in the fourth, leading the charge to take the scoreboard with tough jumpers from all over the court. DeMar DeRozan finished at his season average of 34 points. He calmly stepped up in the game’s closing moments to deliver the dagger. Kyle Lowry had 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists to offset Walker. Both teams now sit at 6-2, tied with the Hawks for second best in the East.

DeMar with the dagger. https://t.co/5XeXprhvzX

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 12, 2016

Jazz 87 (6-4), Magic 74 (3-6)

In their fourth straight Eastern Conference road game, the Jazz looked gassed until the fourth quarter. Utah trailed by 4 heading into the fourth, but outscored the Magic 27-10 in the final period. The Magic shot just 33% from the field for the game. Evan Fournier (21 points) and DJ Augustin (19 points) were the only Magic players to score in double figures. For the Jazz, meanwhile, Rodney Hood scored 8 straight points to put the game out of hand, finishing with 13. He was flanked by 20, 10 and 8 from Gordon Hayward and 18 and 9 from Derrick Favors. Rudy Gobert also made sure to embarrass Nik Vucevic, for good measure. The Jazz ended up with 52 rebounds, a season-high for them.

.@rudygobert27! https://t.co/XwVtLP8OCS

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 12, 2016

Celtics 115 (4-4), Knicks 87 (3-5)

It didn’t take long for the Knicks to spiral out of control after Carmelo Anthony got ejected from this one. They were down 44-38, with 4:44 left in the second when Melo got the boot. Then Isaiah Thomas ripped off a couple of threes and they were on the wrong end of a 61-51 halftime score. The Celtics pushed the lead to as much as 30 and held the ‘Bockers to 14 points in the fourth. Thomas had 29 for the C’s. Kristaps Porzingis had a team-high 14 points, but Derrick Rose’s 11 points and 6 assists were compounded by his 7 turnovers. Brandon Jennings was also tossed late in the fourth quarter. For the game, the Knicks were hit with 6 techs and had 25 total turnovers. Al Horford missed his fifth straight game (concussion protocol).

Silver lining? The Knicks were showing hustle. pic.twitter.com/xT4QqTEUih

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 12, 2016

Clippers 110 (8-1), Thunder 108 (6-3)

Look at the Clippers! Chris Paul’s squad owns the NBA’s best record and its best defense. 8-1 is also the best start in franchise history. Paul had 17 points, 10 dimes and 0 turnovers, his 20th career game with that stat line. He has the most 15+ points, 10+ assists, 0 turnover games of anyone since 1983. Blake Griffin scored 25 for the Clips. He was backed up by Jamal Crawford’s 19, which he scored in 21 minutes. Russell Westbrook had another crazy game, totaling 29 points, 14 rebounds and 9 assists. This one was close throughout. The Clippers made 39 field goals, the Thunder made 38. Both teams had 45 rebounds and the whole thing came down to the last shot, a Westbrook three-pointer that missed at the buzzer. The Clippers got some revenge for losing to the Thunder earlier in the season.

Spurs 96 (6-3), Pistons 86 (4-5)

Pau Gasol had his best game of the season, scoring 21 points. He threw in 9 boards and 6 dimes, too, helping the Spurs pull away in this one. There were 10 lead changes and 8 ties, but the Spurs outscored the Pistons 26-15 in the third to take control. Kawhi Leonard had 17 points. Andre Drummond had 20 points and 17 rebounds. He was one of five Pistons to score in double figures. The Spurs ended their three-game home losing streak with this win.

Blazers 122 (6-4), Kings 120 (4-7)

Damian Lillard and DeMarcus Cousins were trading buckets in this one. Both faced double-teams all night and yet they both hit outrageous shots all night. Dame finished with 36 and 7 helpers, while DeMarcus had 33 and 9 ‘bounds. CJ McCollum added 31 for Portland, moving their record to 5-0 when he and Lillard each score 30+. DeMarcus hit scored 5 points in 30 seconds to push the game to OT, but the rest of the Blazers stepped up when called upon. Allen Crabbe had 16 points off the bench, Meyers Leonard contributed 11 big momentum points, Mo Harkless led the team in rebounding with 8 and Mason Plumlee contributed 7 assists. In total, there 14 lead changes and 11 ties. The Blazers used ball movement (29 assists compared to 18 for SAC) to offset the Kings rebounding attack (48 boards compared to 36 for POR).

Yo, Meyers Leonard just destroyed the rim! https://t.co/3IUgmXeJ7t

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 12, 2016

The post Post Up: Battle of the Buckets appeared first on SLAM.

Jennings, who has since deleted the tweet, says he admires the young point guard’s game: “Dude is a Great Hooper, but I don’t respect a snitch.”

Russell and Jennings will meet on the court Dec. 11 in Los Angeles.

Per the NY Post:

The Knicks guard said he doesn’t respect D’Angelo Russell after the Lakers’ young, skilled point guard last year recorded teammate Nick Young confessing he had cheated on his fiancee in a video that later showed up online.

 

Russell, 20, was largely ostracized from the Los Angeles locker room last season after the leak of the video, in which a camera-ignorant Young admits he cheated on then-fiancee Iggy Azalea. Azalea and Young later broke up.

 

Russell offered a heart-wrenching apology last season. The second-year player got off to a hot start this season, looking to put his drama-filled debut year in the past, which might be more difficult than it would seem.

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Nick Young on D’Angelo Russell: ‘I Can’t Be Mad Forever’

The post Brandon Jennings Calls D’angelo Russell a ‘Snitch’ appeared first on SLAM.

Dinos’ Pangos All-American Camp in June, Fab 48 in July, and Tarkanian Classic in December are three staples on the grassroots scene. Throughout the remainder of the year, he holds a number of smaller events that still attract top talent, albeit usually from a particular region of the country. We saw this first hand at the Pangos All South Frosh/Soph Camp in Dallas.

Blending players from all over the deep south, the Pangos All South Frosh/Soph Camp gave us a glimpse of the future. The bulk of the top talent was from the Lone Star State, but there will still a number of sleepers who emerged from other areas as well. Phones were blowing up, offers were getting handed out, and there were a number of players who certainly raised their stock over the two day event.

Here are a few of the underclassmen who caught our eye:

Charles Bassey, 6-10, PF, St. Anthony’s (TX), 2019

Rivals top player in the class of 2019 definitely lived up to the hype at Pangos. At 6-foot-10, he has a unique blend of perimeter skill and athleticism that make him such a special prospect. The Nigerian product is most effective going to work from mid-range a la KG, where he creates mismatches with his ability to rip and take slower bigs off the bounce. Bassey is the face of Jeff Merritt’s emerging program at St. Anthony’s, which certainly has the potential to be one of the very best in the Lone Star state.

De’vion Harmon, 6-2, PG, Guyer HS (TX), 2019

Fresh off of an impressive showing at the USA Basketball trials, De’Vion Harmon showed why he might be repping the stars and stripes. The tough playmaker was in attack mode the entire camp, constantly putting pressure on the D and finding the open man when the opportunity didn’t present itself. Harmon has established himself as not only one of the top lead guards in Texas, but in the entire south for the sophomore class.

Tyrese Maxey, 6-3, PG/SG, South Garland HS (TX), 2019

A serious talent, Tyrese Maxey showed the natural ability to play both guard spots down the road. While he is a natural bucket getter, Maxey is able to create on just about anyone and showed off ‎ nasty court vision in transition. When you throw in the fact that he is a big time athlete who can finish with either hand, it is easy to see why the bulk of the Big 12 is recruiting him.

Tyreek Smith, 6-8, PF, API (TX), 2019

If you built the prototype for a power forward physically, Tyreek Smith would be that dude. Blessed with a great frame, long arms, and crazy athleticism, Smith has all of the tools college coaches dream of. As his offensive skill level continues to grow, expect Tyreek’s recruitment to blow up.

Avery Anderson, 6-3, PG, Northwest HS (TX), 2019

Perhaps the flashiest player the event had to offer, Avery Anderson set the crowd on fire with his exciting style of play and crazy finishes. He was able to break down defenders with ease, showed off a nasty crossover, Avery needs to continue to grow as a decision maker, but has all of the talent that you desire in a big lead guard.

Montavious Murphy, 6-7, SF/PF, Klein Collins (TX), 2019

One of the more versatile players in attendance, Montavious showed a rapidly developing perimeter game with ideal size for a swingman. He’s got a silkly smooth J out to three, is a good straight line driver, and is a solid athlete for a player who is far from being done developing physically. Murphy is undoubtedly one of the biggest sleepers in not only Houston, but the entire state of Texas.

Obi Prosper, 6-8, PF, St. Anthony’s (TX), 2019

Starting in the frontcourt for St. Anthony’s next to Charles Bassey, Obi Prosper is another post with tremendous upside. The super athletic forward plays with a great motor, is consistently improving, and has shown flashes of range out to the three point line. Far from a finished product, Obi still needs plenty of refinement, but has all of the makings of a high major prospect.

Cade Cunningham, 6-5, SG, Bowie HS (TX), 2020

Perhaps the best freshman in the event, Cade Cunningham showed off a skill set that extended well beyond his years. He bombed deep three pointers, had no problem getting his own shot, and used his strength to finish through contact. Cunningham is definitely one of the more polished 2020’s in the DFW

The post 2016 Pangos All South Frosh/Soph Camp Recap appeared first on SLAM.

It seemed like nearly all of Dobson’s 1,586 people showed up to the game based on the parking lot when we first pulled up. Despite the fact that it was a neutral site, the game was about as hyped as you could get. The players certainly did not treat things like a scrimmage either. Ultimately, Oak Hill won the two halves (since it was a scrimmage, they reset the score at halftime) 49-43 and 49-46. They ran a third period for the reserves (which gave us a chance to watch the youngsters) that resulted in a 13-13 tie.

Here are a few of the guys who stood out in the Battle of Virginia:

Matt Coleman, 6-2, PG, Oak Hill Academy, 2017

While he’s been on the block for a while now, Matt Coleman showed everyone in Dobson why he is one of the best point guards in the country. Matt showed off a simply ridiculous change of pace, had a number of Brandon Jennings no-look passes, and nearly banged on a dude who was trying to take a charge on him. On the defensive end, the Hampton native played killer on ball D and used his quick hands to create tons of steals. Down to Duke, Stanford, Kansas, Texas, and Syracuse, Coleman is undoubtedly one of the most sought after players in the country.

Billy Preston, 6-10, PF, Oak Hill Academy, 2017

The most highly touted player in the game lived up to the hype by dropping an easy 27 points. At 6-foot-10, there aren’t many things that he can’t do on the hardwood. Preston nailed a pair of deep threes, helped handle the rock against Oak Hill’s press, and used his prototypical NBA size to create mismatches. What was most impressive was the effort that he put in on the defensive end. Standing 6-foot-10 and a lean 230 pounds with a 7’1 wingspan, Preston has gifts to be a game changing defender if he wants to. Lockdown D or not, the Cali product is an undoubted top ten prospect in the class who is working towards top five on a daily basis.

Justin Brown, 6-6, SF, Hargrave Military Academy, 2017

While he wasn’t the most talented player in the game, Justin Brown was probably my favorite player in the game to watch. At 6-foot-6, he was the ultimate utility player for Hargrave. He rebounded on both ends against taller foes, defended multiple positions, and used his crafty play to finish above the Oak Hill trees. The lefty showed range out to the three point line and his gritty, versatile play will make him a dream for a college coach with a four out, one in offense.

Brandon Knapper, 6-1, PG/SG, Hargrave Military Academy, 2017

A guy who I had admittedly never seen going into the game, Brandon Knapper showed why home state West Virginia locked him up. A super shifty guard, he played primarily off of the ball next to Ohio State bound Braxton Beverly, but you could see that he was able to create off of the bounce. He showed off deep range, ran the pick and roll well, and had a straight natural scoring instinct. The grit and heart that he has will make him fit in perfectly with Bob Huggins at WVU.

Ty-Shon Alexander, 6-3, SG, Oak Hill Academy, 2017

Creighton has been killing it for a decade now and the reason that they do that is by getting steals like Ty-Shon Alexander. The tough shooting guard straight up attacked everyone who was guarding him with a killer instinct, shot it well from deep, and showed off a nice handle for an off guard. At the mid-major level, expect big things from the Charlotte native.

Kenneth Nwuba, 6-9, C, Oak Hill Academy, 2018

While there were a number of players who put up better numbers, Kenneth Nwuba impacted the game in a number of ways that don’t necessarily show up in the box score. The 6-foot-9 man-child was outstanding running the floor, intimidated opposing players who dared to come in the paint, and often times took up two defenders to box him out. While his offensive game is still very much a work in progress, Nwuba is the type of physical inforcer in the paint that every college coach dreams of.

The post Battle of Virginia: Oak Hill vs Hargrave Military appeared first on SLAM.

Rose, 28, remains as confident as ever in his abilities.

Derrick Rose says he's still an elite PG, and regaining that status around the NBA is only 'a matter of time.' More: https://t.co/iKJ6eBLWPH

— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) October 24, 2016

The New York Knicks are encouraging their new floor general to be more aggressive in looking for his own shot.

Per ESPN:

Rose was asked after Knicks practice on Monday if he wants to show this season that he still is an elite point guard.

 

“Yeah, but I know I am,” he said. “That’s no surprise to me. It’s only a matter of time until I put it together. All the hard work I put in, everything how I dedicated my whole life to this game, what I sacrificed. It’s only a few that did it and that’s doing it. So it’s all about just putting it together.”

 

Rose believes that the Knicks will be difficult to guard in the pick-and-roll with players like Joakim Noah, Carmelo Anthony, Kristaps Porzingis, Courtney Lee and Brandon Jennings. […] “It’s pick your poison,” Rose said. “My job is to create a double team so the weak side has a hard time closing down on shooters.”

Related
Derrick Rose On Knicks: ‘I Think It’s The Most Talented Team I’ve Played On’

The post Derrick Rose Says He’s Still an Elite Point Guard appeared first on SLAM.

They say that happiness equals reality divided by expectation—and that frustration is the product of the opposite—so let’s consider the graphic above, and the case of Carmelo Anthony. (Excuse the triangle.)

Anthony is one of the League’s best players, but he is not on par with LeBron James or Steph Curry or some others. He is a scorer, and though he is not a selfish player, his style has never produced great consistency or postseason success. It seems likely that Anthony will join the short list of all-time greats who never won a Championship. He will probably finish with, at worst, the 12th-most points ever scored.

That’s the reality.

So what about expectation?

Here in New York, Anthony is viewed as a frustrating underachiever by many (vocal) Knicks fans. This group has unrealistic expectations, and is distinctly furious and devoid of constructive ideas. They want to trade Melo, but they do not know who to acquire.

They believe that Melo is overpaid, but they do not know who to pay instead. They wish Melo hadn’t re-signed for five expensive years, but, of course, would despise him far more had he left via free agency to L.A. or Miami or Cleveland. This group wants to win—everybody does—but the Knicks never win, and the onus has fallen on Anthony alone.

The gap between this group’s expectation and the team’s reality consumes them—there is no place for Anthony’s reliably outstanding contributions to the team, the franchise and, in fact, the country.

The reality is that New York’s window was slammed shut three years ago by Roy Hibbert. Since then, expectations have remained high, but reality has torpedoed downward, at least for the Knicks as a whole, and if Melo’s success is measured in wins, then it has spiraled for him, too.

But light shone through last season, if you were willing to look. Kristaps Porzingis was spectacular in every way. Anthony played 72 games (at 35 minutes per) and averaged 21.8 points, 7.7 boards and 4.2 assists—the last a career-best, and a bit of proof, perhaps, of some untapped potential yet. Only Melo, Durant and Westbrook averaged 21/7.5/4. New York competed for half the season—40 games saw them ahead of even the Celtics in the standings. (They went 12-30 from there.)

This summer brought Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, Courtney Lee and Brandon Jennings to New York. The Knicks figure to play competitive if unspectacular ball all season—a classic sixth seed in the East. There will be fun nights: A Porzingis halftime stat line will have you sprinting home to flip on the game; Noah and Jennings will be doing JR-caliber wonky stuff all season.

Melo, meanwhile, will again be one of the League’s most productive forwards. He will have a month where he scores 28 or 34 every night, and he’ll sniff a triple-double every now and then. There will also be nights when his shot isn’t falling, when he’s the last to realize it, when he gives up a few easy buckets, when the team loses ugly. He is not a perfect player, but few ever were.

And so a fair set of expectations, which might blend with reality, is this: The Knicks hang with Toronto and Boston in the Atlantic for a good chunk of the season. At some point, New York gets hot, and Melo and Porzingis thrive in a way that makes you wonder if, just maybe, they can outlast the many pretty-good teams that fill the Eastern Conference to face Cleveland. Maybe the Knicks even top the Cavs in an early primetime game (December 7 on ESPN!) to really get the juices flowing.

There’s some potential here, maybe not for a title, but for a relevant, fun season. Sam Hinkie will tell you that a playoff push ain’t worth shit, but I’ll take six months of watching entertaining ball over five years of reading Joel Embiid’s Instagram comments any day, and twice on gameday. This year, the Knicks will be worth their fans’ time. Melo will lead the charge.

Allow that to be enough, and you might actually have some fun.

CARMELO ANTHONY SLAM TOP 50 HISTORY

2009: 7
2010: 6
2011: 9
2012: 10
2013: 4
2014: 7
2015: 13
2016: 15

Rankings are based on expected contribution in 2016-17—to players’ team, the NBA and the game.

Follow the entire SLAM Top 50 countdown.

The post SLAM Top 50: Carmelo Anthony, No. 15 appeared first on SLAM.

The 27-year-old put on a show at Madison Square Garden in the Knicks’ 90-88 preseason win Monday night, and his third quarter tussle with Washington Wizards guard Casper Ware led to chants from the crowd.

Jennings inked a one-year deal this summer and obviously loves being a Knick.

Brandon Jennings becomes fan favorite in Knicks preseason win https://t.co/kJ38YyMu95

— Stefan Bondy (@SBondyNYDN) October 11, 2016

Per the NY Daily News:

“I found something personal,” Jennings said. “And I smelled blood out there.”

 

“This is New York, the concrete jungle,” he added. “When you walk in the Garden it’s not going to be sweet at all.”

 

“His energy, the way everybody responded to it in a positive way, they got the crowd into it, they got us into it as teammates,” Anthony said. “I think the game changed right there. […] Jennings has started two straight games with (Derrick) Rose 2,500 miles away, providing highlight passes, attitude and energy. On Monday, he scored 11 points in 27 minutes, while Carmelo Anthony (19 points) and Kristaps Porzingis (15) paced the scoring. Lance Thomas hit the game-winning free throws with .02 seconds left to lift the Knicks to 2-1 in the preseason.

Related
Brandon Jennings: ‘I Just Feel Like Myself Again’

The post WATCH: Knicks Fans Chant Brandon Jennings’ Name appeared first on SLAM.

New York got a bit of refuge last night when they defeated the Nets at Madison Square Garden, but at today’s practice, head coach Jeff Hornacek may have opened another can of worms when he commented on Phil Jackson’s favorite, the triangle offense.

Hornacek was asked to respond to Chauncey Billups, who said that the Knicks have, “a very bad system, the triangle” during an ESPN studio show. The first-year Knicks head coach told the New York Daily News that “guys, first of all, don’t like to run it:”

Hornacek said when teams are in their halfcourt sets they all run a variation of the triangle. The difference is that most NBA teams get into their offense quicker and that running the triangle exclusively will slow the pace.

 

“I think that’s where most people are coming from,” Hornacek said. “If you end up being a slowdown team and never end up getting easy buckets and you’re running that halfcourt set all the time… guys, first of all, don’t like to run it.

 

“But secondly, it makes it very difficult to get easy buckets early in the offense and I think in today’s game those early buckets are nice to get. We’re not running it every time. We’re mixing it here and there. Hopefully, for us it’s a good thing we can do when we need to execute a play on a dead ball that we have something to go to.”

Last season, Derek Fisher began to move away from the triangle and once he was fired and replaced with interim coach Kurt Rambis, the Knicks went back to running the old school offense. Hornacek pledges that Jackson has been hands off:

“Phil’s been great,” Hornacek added. “He’s not trying to take over and make us do anything. He’s giving us the leeway. There are some things that we do that aren’t the triangle stuff; our early stuff that quite honestly we probably thought he’d say ‘let’s not do that, or let’s not do this option.’ But he hasn’t said that at all.

 

“He’s just trying to give us hints on when we’re in the halfcourt sets. Just how to really execute it. It’s great help.”

Related
The SLAM Podcast: Eastern Conference Preview
WATCH: Knicks and Rockets Players Stand Together During National Anthem
Derrick Rose Says Training Camp With Knicks Was Best Of His Career

The post Jeff Hornacek: ‘Players Don’t Like To Run [Triangle Offense]’ appeared first on SLAM.

It’s been a bumpy year and change for Jennings since the injury, but the point guard is on a 1-year deal with the Knicks and has been playing alongside the projected starters with Derrick Rose in Los Angeles for his rape case.

Last night, Jennings tallied 4 points, 5 assists and 4 rebounds in 14 minutes as the Knicks beat the Nets in a preseason game. Afterwards, he told ESPN‘s Ian Begley that he finally feels healthy:

“I feel great. I feel faster. I hope I look faster… I just feel like myself again.”

Carmelo Anthony has also noticed Jennings’ play and said the point guard is “feeling good about himself:”

“He’s been playing like that since he was in high school. Nothing has changed. You can tell he’s feeling good about himself. He’s feeling healthy. He’s got that joy about being back out there on the court.”

Related
Brandon Jennings: ‘I’m As Hungry As I’ve Ever Been’
Jeff Van Gundy: ‘Knicks Can Win 50 Games’

The post Brandon Jennings: ‘I Just Feel Like Myself Again’ appeared first on SLAM.

Check out what Reggie Jackson, Brandon Jennings, Draymond Green and more had to say about the best (and worst) performances from Sunday.

Related
Tweetcap: NBA Players On The Debate
Tweetcap: NBA Players React to KG’s Retirement

The post Tweetcap: NBA Players React To Week 4 Of The NFL appeared first on SLAM.

The only men that have more NBA rings than Horry are seven Celtics that played back in the day. Names like Russell, Havlicek, and Jones (do your Googles on Sam Jones and KC Jones).

Since he retired in 2008, Horry’s become a valued member of the NBA’s extended family. He’s popped up all over the place, from the annual Hall of Fame celebrations, to the NBA Finals, to appearances on NBA TV and the Lakers’ Time Warner Cable channel.

For the last two weeks he’s been touring Europe, again working for the League. He’s been in Malaga, Barcelona & Paris to spread the game and connect with fans. We caught up with Big Shot Rob on the final leg of his trip.

SLAM: What have you been working on with the League? 

Robert Horry: It depends on which city you’re talking about. When I was in Spain, we were doing a couple things getting ready for the EuroGames. When I was in London we had some fun time where I was doing stuff with local celebrities with NBA 2K17. Now here in Paris, there’s a lot of court dedication, trying to provide a place to go and play on a good court, a regulation court for kids to try and better themselves.

SLAM: What’s the reception to the game in Europe now? How much has basketball grown?

RH: Each city has a different reaction. When I was in the Hoops Factory the other day, watching all these kids play with a passion and love for the game. And it’s amazing. It was 30 teams of three. And there were so many guys that had crazy handles.

I’m like, ‘Wow, all these guys have handles. At that age, I could barely go left.’ These guys have learned the game. It’s exciting to see them have the love and the passion for it. They went out and just played hard.

A couple of them were asking me questions. ‘What can I do to get better?’ I tried to give them little tips and little drills.

SLAM: Do they know about you and all you’ve done as a player?

RH: Thanks to Tony Parker, a lot of those guys knew who I was. Usually it’s, ‘Oh, you played for the Lakers.’ Here it’s, ‘Oh, you played for the Spurs.’ That has a lot to do with Tony and his influence and the impact he put on the game here.

SLAM: What has separated Tony Parker throughout all these years?

RH: He’s so fast, so crafty. For a couple years, like, four or five years, he led the NBA in points in the paint. For a point guard to be able to get in the paint and take that contact, and shoot over big guys… He just kept on showing you his resolve and resiliance to get to the hole. I look at him and he reminds me of some of the things that Rod Strickland used to do when he would get to the paint and shoot up floaters. He reminds of his quickness off the dribble like a Tim Hardaway. His toughness in there like a Joe Dumars. There were so many things, if you look at his game, that he was able to do at his size. He’s not supposed to be able to do that.

Like, ‘Who’s this Frenchmen that’s coming in with a floater? Who’s this little Frenchmen that’s scoring more points in the paint than anybody in the NBA?’

What he brought to the NBA was amazing. The thing that I like best about him is everybody knew he could get to the hole and drive but he worked on his outside shot so much, and he worked on his three so much that he’s able to knock that down with consistency.

SLAM: Do you have a favorite championship?

RH: It’s definitely my ’95 championship. To not have homecourt advantage and if you go back and look at all the teams we beat–there’s about 10 Hall of Famers that we came across. John Stockton, Karl Malone, Kevin Johnson, AC Green and Charles Barkley. Then you had Dennis Rodman, Avery Johnson and David Robinson.

Then the next round, of course, he recently got into the Hall of Fame–Shaq. Penny and that crew. It was a crazy run. Not to have homecourt advantage, beat the teams, come back from down 3-1 [against Phoenix], sweep Orlando, who was America’s team then. I could go on and on about the fantastic moments we had that during that run.

SLAM: From you and Kenny Smith, to Vernon Maxwell, and then Hakeem, that was an incredible team. 

RH: The fact that we revolutionized smallball during that period, too. Being down 3-1 to Phoenix. It’s funny because Charles Barkley was killing Chucky [Brown] and Pete Chilcutt. It was like, ‘Let’s put Robert on him.’ I was like, ‘Oh, crap.’ But it worked out. It gave Hakeem more room to operate and it gave me more room to knock down three’s.

SLAM: What about a favorite clutch shot that you hit?

RH: It happened back in ’95. We were playing our nemesis, the San Antonio Spurs. In the first game, Dennis Rodman didn’t come out. I was 0-9 and I stepped in and knocked down a shot in that very first game. For me that’s special because to be 0-9 and have the confidence to take that shot, it means a lot more to me for my self-confidence and to strive to be the best I could be. That shot means a lot. Nobody ever talks about it. It’s probably not even on film anywhere. But to me, that’s a big one.

SLAM: Do you think we’ll ever see someone win seven championships again?

RH: I look at LeBron James, the fact that he started out so young. He’s somebody that can do a lot of things. He’s probably going to play about six more years, the way he keeps his body up, the machine that he is. He could have the opportunity to bypass me and get close to, I’m not going to say Bill, but I’d say Sam Jones. Sam had 10. I think he’d be close to that range, if he’s able to stay healthy and he stays in the right situation.

—

Photos courtesy of NBA

The post Q+A: Robert Horry appeared first on SLAM.

Now healthy, Jennings is hoping to make a splash in Manhattan and while speaking with Anthony Donahue on The Stashed‘s “33rd & 7th” podcast, the point guard said he’s “as hungry as he’s ever been:”

“I’m as hungry as I’ve ever been now. I’m on a one-year deal. I’m coming off an Achilles injury, everybody [wrote] me off. So right now I’m hungry, I’m more hungry than ever,” Jennings said.

 

“At the end of the day, right now I just want to win, man. I just want to be in a winning environment,” Jennings, whose teams have won 45 percent of the games he’s played in, told Donahue. “I’m in the biggest market, the greatest basketball city, the Mecca, so who cares [about coming off the bench]? Let’s just win. We win, the whole city loves us.”

Depending on how long Derrick Rose’s ongoing sexual battery civil case goes on, Jennings could find himself in the starting lineup at the beginning of the season.

The post Brandon Jennings: ‘I’m As Hungry As I’ve Ever Been’ appeared first on SLAM.

While the play and health of Rose, Noah, Jennings and Carmelo Anthony will all be vital to the Knicks’ chances at making the playoffs, the biggest piece of New York’s puzzle will be how much Kristaps Porzingis improves in his second year.

KP was up in Westchester, NY over the weekend and was asked by ESPN‘s Ian Begley about D-Rose’s offseason comments and how the point guard has looked in workouts:

“I don’t know what’s a Super Team and what’s not a Super Team but what I think he meant was that we’re able to win every game … Not that we’re going to win 82 games, zero (losses). But every team that comes up, we’re able to beat them because we have enough talent. I think that’s what he meant and I like the confidence, I like that he believes that we’re good enough. So it’s just, now we’ve got to prove it. It’s enough talking and we’ve got to go out on the court and prove that we’re a good team.

 

He’s still got it … He’s still Derrick Rose. And so it will be exciting to play with him. He draws so much attention when he’s driving, he’s so dangerous that I’m going to be wide open and that’s what I’m looking forward to. He’s going to be creating for me and other teammates.”

Porzingis also discussed meeting Joakim Noah and the team’s goals this season.

The post Kristaps Porzingis on Derrick Rose’s Offseason Comments: ‘I Like His Confidence’ appeared first on SLAM.

Other Twitter users called Jennings crazy, considering that Reggie is one of the greatest 3-point shooters ever and racked up thousands of points. But when it comes down to rings, Horry has seven while Miller has zero.

To be clear, Jennings did not say that Horry is a better player than Miller, he’d rather have a fistful of rings over individual accolades.

Peep Brandon’s argument below:

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769938263666601984

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769940611956748288

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769943081030344704

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769943641020178432

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769943977738932224

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769944713059151872

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769945060653666304

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769946184278388736

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769946290545266688

Jennings also weighed in on the Knicks, saying that if the team is healthy they have a shot at making noise in the L this upcoming season:

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769948561299476480

https://twitter.com/brandonjennings/status/769948711027744770

The post Brandon Jennings: ‘I’m Taking Robert Horry’s Career Over Reggie Miller’s’ appeared first on SLAM.

During a break in his set, the superstar rapper called D-Rose to the stage and thanked him for the “blessings.”

On his 2nd night in MSG, Drake brought Derrick Rose and his son PJ on stage!!!! pic.twitter.com/3i04sxHt8g

— ✶✶✶✶ (@NotARoleModeI) August 6, 2016

Rose wasn’t the only Knicks point guard Drake showed love to. At last night’s show, the OVO leader rocked a Brandon Jennings Knicks jersey:

The post WATCH: Drake Brings Out Derrick Rose At NYC Concert appeared first on SLAM.

The 2011 MVP knows that expectations will be extremely high in the upcoming season.

.@drose is hype about his new team. Had a lot of good things to say about Melo, KP and Phil Jackson. pic.twitter.com/BkjZl3wxNX

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) July 21, 2016

Rose says he has begun working out with some of his new teammates.

Per NBA.com:

Q: Knicks fans always hear about the Triangle offense. How do you think your game fits into what the Knicks are doing offensively? Or do you think the way you guys will play is even the Triangle like we’re used to hearing and thinking about it?

 

ROSE: “Of course, when you think about the Triangle you might think about an old-school type of way of playing basketball. Not to say it is old school, but it helped certain teams and worked out for certain teams. With us, with all the pieces that we have, it kind of fits us almost to a T. Because you have [Carmelo Anthony], you have [Kristaps Porzingis] who can post up a lot. If they was to put me in that position that would be my first time having an isolation at the elbow, or just having an isolation period. It can work that way. Then you think about the Triangle for playoffs, the Triangle for halfcourt basketball. I talked to Coach [Jeff Hornacek], and he was saying with the Triangle he would have to vary the Triangle to have a lot of pick and rolls in there at the top of the key or on the side. So it’s really whatever they decide to do, and I have to find my way around it. This is the first time I think the Triangle will really ever have an athletic point guard in that position. So who knows? All I have to do is make sure my catch-and-shoot is pretty good with this team, and like I said, be prepared.”

 

Q: Knicks fans always have high expectations, sometimes maybe not even grounded in reality over the years. Before last season, Melo came out on media day and talked about managing expectations with such a young team. But with this roster now and all these veterans, what should the expectations be for the Knicks?

 

ROSE: “They’re high. I mean, with these teams right now, they’re saying us and Golden State are the super teams, and they’re trying not to build that many super teams, and Adam Silver came out with the statement and this and that. And the expectations I think of us, we just want to win. Talking to Melo and all the guys who’ve been around. You’ve got [Brandon Jennings] who just signed for one year, he’s got to show why he’s there. I’ve got to show why I’m there. [Joakim Noah] has to show why he’s there. Everybody’s trying to prove themselves. When you’ve got a group like that, it’s like, alright, I know everybody wants to do that, but we’re going to break this down as simple as possible, and try to win every game. I think winning takes care of every category, as far as being an athlete. You look at endorsements, being on the floor, almost everything — I think winning takes care of all that. And if you’re in the league, winning takes care of all the mistakes, or if you have any problems on teams.”

The post Derrick Rose: Warriors and Knicks are ‘Super Teams’ appeared first on SLAM.

Melo says he’s thrilled with New York’s acquisitions of Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah and Brandon Jennings.

Anthony believes this is now a postseason-bound team.

Per the NY Post:

Saying Jackson “stepped up,’’ Anthony called the Knicks “a playoff team,” adding the group is “a very special team on paper” and has its “competitive edge” back.

 

It’s as adamantly positive as Anthony has been since the Knicks came off their 54-28 season in 2012-13. Speaking after the first day of training camp for the U.S. Olympic Team, Anthony made no bones about feeling the club should break its depressing three-year playoff dry spell.

 

“The time is now for us,” Anthony said Monday. “The time is now for the city and the fans. The time is now. Everybody is tired of waiting and waiting. Now it’s time we can go out there and put a competitive team [on the floor]. For me, the time is now. For us as city and an organization, that should be the mindset — the time is now.”

The post Carmelo Anthony: ‘We Have A Very Special Team On Paper Right Now’ appeared first on SLAM.

Brandon Jennings, James Harden and Nick Young laced up their kicks and put on a show for Jenner and the rest of the crowd who filled up the gym.

On the court, Harden led LA UNFD to another Drew League Championship with 26 points and 8 dimes.

Peep the video above for some highlights.

The post James Harden, Brandon Jennings and Nick Young Put On A Show At The Drew League appeared first on SLAM.

Jennings, 26, is thrilled for the chance to play at Madison Square Garden.

Jennings agrees to a one year $5 million deal with the Knicks according to sources

— Vincent Goodwill (@vgoodwill) July 4, 2016

Can't wait to play in the Mecca!! Excited to be joining such a historic franchise @NYKNICKS!!!

— Brandon Jennings (@thinkiminthe90s) July 4, 2016

Jennings will back up Derrick Rose.

Per Newsday:

Later in the day, the Knicks also came to terms on a multi-year deal with their own free agent, Lance Thomas, a source said. They were still working out the number of years, but Thomas will get the “early-bird exception,” starting at roughly $6 million for 2016-17.

 

But in keeping with the theme of the Knicks this summer, they picked up another player who has battled injuries lately. If Rose, (Joakim) Noah and Jennings can stay healthy and turn back the clock a few years, the Knicks should have enough to make the postseason for the first time since 2013. […] All three players want to prove they can play at an All-Star type level again, and with Rose and Jennings in contract years, they’ll be especially motivated.

 

The Knicks’ starting five right now is Rose, (Courtney) Lee, Carmelo Anthony, Kristaps Porzingis and Noah, with Jennings, Thomas, Kyle O’Quinn and Justin Holiday off the bench.

Keep up with the latest signings during the July free-agency period by following our 2016 NBA Free Agent Tracker.

The post Brandon Jennings to Ink One-Year, $5 Million Deal With the Knicks appeared first on SLAM.

We’ve broken down the NBA free-agent signings into two categories: “On The Move” and “Staying Put”. There’s a number of ways we could have done it, but players leaving and players staying is about as basic (and intuitive) as it gets.

Below is a comprehensive look at the agreements made since the free-agency period began at midnight on July 1. Just remember, everything is just a verbal agreement until the moratorium period ends on July 7.

Let us know in the comments who you think has had the best and worst offseason so far!

ON THE MOVE

Kevin Durant: 2-year, $54 million deal with the Warriors

Dwyane Wade: 2-year, $47 million deal with Chicago

Al Horford: 4-year, $113 million deal with Celtics

Dwight Howard: 3-year, $70.5 million deal with Hawks

Pau Gasol: 2-year, $30 million deal with Spurs

Rajon Rondo: 2-year, $28 million deal with Bulls

Chandler Parsons: 4-year, $95 million deal with Grizzlies

Harrison Barnes: 4-year, $94 million deal with Mavs

Ryan Anderson: 4-year, $80 million deal with Rockets

Bismack Biyombo: 4-year, $72 million deal with Magic

Luol Deng: 4-year, $72 million deal with Lakers

Joakim Noah: 4-year, $72 million deal with Knicks

Evan Turner: 4-year, $70 million deal with Blazers

Timofey Mozgov: 4-year, $64 million deal with Lakers

Ian Mahimi: 4-year, $64 million deal with Wizards

Eric Gordon: 4-year, $53 million deal with Rockets

Solomon Hill: 4-year, $52 million deal with Pelicans

Courtney Lee: 4-year, $48 million contract with Knicks

Jon Leuer: 4-year, $42 million deal with Pistons

Andrew Nicholson: 4-year, $26 million deal with Wizards

Matthew Dellavedova: 4-year, $39 million deal with Bucks

E’Twaun Moore: 4-year, $34 million deal with Pelicans

DJ Augustin: 4-year, $29 million deal with Magic

Jeremy Lin: 3-year, $36 million deal with Nets

Al Jefferson: 3-year, $30 million deal with Pacers

Mirza Teletovic: 3-year, $30 million deal with Bucks

Jared Dudley: 3-year, $30 million deal with Suns

Jerryd Bayless: 3-year, $27 million deal with 76ers

Ish Smith: 3-year, $18 million deal with Pistons

Arron Afflalo: 2-year, $25 million deal with Kings

Joe Johnson: 2-year, $22 million deal with Jazz

Gerald Henderson: 2-year, $18 million deal with 76ers

Matt Barnes: 2-year, $12 million deal with Kings

Seth Curry: 2-year, $6 million deal with Mavs

Jeff Green: 1-year, $15 million deal with Magic

Roy Hibbert: 1-year, $5 million deal with Charlotte

Brandon Jennings: 1-year, $5 million deal with Knicks

Zaza Pachulia: 1-year, $2.9 million deal with Warriors

David West: 1-year, vet minimum deal with Warriors

Boris Diaw: Traded to Utah Jazz

Jason Smith: 3-year, $16 million deal with the Wizards

Nene: 1-Year, $2.9 million deal with Houston

Brandon Rush: 1-year, $3.5 million deal with Minnesota

Leandro Barbosa: 2-year, $8 million deal with Phoenix

Festus Ezeli: 2-year, $15 million deal with Portland

James Johnson: 1-year, $4 million deal with Miami

Jarrett Jack: 1-year deal with Atlanta

Greivis Vasquez: one-year deal with Brooklyn

Jared Sullinger: 1-year, $6 million deal with Toronto

Luis Scola: 1-year deal with Brooklyn

Raymond Felton: 1-year, $1.5 million deal with the Clippers

Quincy Acy: two-year deal with the Mavs

Brandon Bass: 1-year deal with the Clippers

Dion Waiters: one-year, $2.9 million deal with Miami

David Lee: 2-year deal with San Antonio

Alan Anderson: one-year deal with the Clippers

Ty Lawson: One-Year Deal With the Kings

Kevin Seraphin: 2-year, $3.6 million deal with the Pacers

Jordan Farmar: 1-year deal with Sacramento

STAYING PUT

Dirk Nowitzki: 2-year, $40 million deal with Dallas

Mike Conley: 5-year, $153 million deal with Grizzlies

DeMar DeRozan: 5-year, $139 million deal with Raptors

Andre Drummond: 5-year, $130 million deal with Pistons

Bradley Beal: 5-year, $128 million deal with Wizards

Nicolas Batum: 5-year, $120 million deal with Hornets

Evan Fournier: 5-year, $85 million deal with Magic

Hassan Whiteside: 4-year, $98 million deal with Heat

Kent Bazemore: 4-year, $70 million deal with Hawks

Jordan Clarkson: 4-year, $50 million deal with Lakers

Dwight Powell: 4-year, $37 million deal with Dallas

Jamal Crawford: 3-year, $42 million deal with Clippers

Austin Rivers: 3-year, $35 million deal with Clippers

Wesley Johnson: 3-year, $18 million deal with Clippers

Deron Williams: 1-year, $10 million deal with Mavs

Brian Roberts: 1-year deal with Charlotte

Richard Jefferson: 2-year, $5 million deal with Cleveland

Marcelo Huertas: two-year deal with the Lakers

Tyler Johnson: 4-year, $50 million deal with Miami

Udonis Haslem: 1-year, $4 million deal with Miami

Sasha Vujacic: 1-year deal with the Knicks

Anderson Varejao: 1-year deal with Golden State

Miles Plumlee: 4-year, $52 million deal with Milwaukee

Mike Miller: 2-year, $6 million deal with Denver

James Jones: 1-year deal with Cleveland

Elton Brand: 1-year deal with Philly

Metta World Peace: training camp deal with the Lakers

The post 2016 NBA Free Agent Tracker appeared first on SLAM.