The Suns are currently 1-9 in their last 10 games after dropping a 30-point decision to the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday. They’ve also ended their four-game road trip with three straight losses to the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Memphis. The losses can be attributed to the Suns being last in offense (104.6 offensive ratings) and 23rd in defense (117.2 defensive ratings).

Chris Paul, Cam Payne, Cameron Johnson, and Devin Booker have also been out for periods of time due to leg, hip, and foot injuries. Booker has been out since Dec. 17 due to a hamstring injury, and CP3 has been in and out of the Suns’ lineup due to a collection of injuries.

After their 136-106 loss to Memphis on Monday, Suns forward Josh Okogie said that Phoenix can get out of their rut by simply playing “through it.”

"Keep playing. Can't get out of it. You've got to get through it."

Josh Okogie as #Suns are 1-9 in their last 10 after Monday's loss at #Grizzlies to end 4-game road trip with three straight defeats. #MLKDay2023 pic.twitter.com/UCi07VoAKz

— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) January 17, 2023

Okogie is also encouraged by the Suns’ culture persevering through this skid and that Phoenix’s “spirits are still high” despite the losses they’ve dealt with. Okogie believes that once the Suns get healthy, they’ll “be just fine.”

“The way we operate, the way we practice, our attention to detail, we’re still operating like we’re a top three team in the West.”

Okogie and the Suns are set to host the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday.

The post Josh Okogie is Confident the Suns Can ‘Get Through’ Recent Skid appeared first on SLAM.

At the time, future NBA stars Jalen Suggs and Chet Holmgren were dominating at Minnehaha Academy, while former National Player of the Year and Uconn star Paige Bueckers was transcending the women’s game at Hopkins High School. The 22-year-old brought his camera along to a few matchups and started shooting the three future McDonald’s All-Americans. He’d then post the flicks onto social media and tag the players.

Next thing he knew, the content started going viral.

“I went to go film Jalen [Suggs’] game, and that was different,” Englert says. “I’ve never seen anything like it before. I was like, ‘There are high school players playing like NBA players,’ pretty much with how high they can jump and everything and how good they were. I came from a small private high school, so I never saw anything like that.”

The budding following led to an opportunity with SLAM and WSLAM to cover Suggs and Bueckers’ senior year, which Englert did all while attending college and doing freelance work around Minnesota. Although he studied a bit of film and production in school, Englert considers himself more as a “self-taught” videographer who learned from Youtube and other creators, too.

“One thing you can’t teach is a creative mind. You can get all the fancy cameras, but you gotta know how to use it, gotta know how to put a good video together, you have to keep people watching it, and that’s the hard part.”

As a creative, Englert wants his content to have a more cinematic-feel to it, “like a movie with different angles I get, color, telling a story with all my videos. Even within seven seconds, I can tell a story,” he says.

HIs work has caught the attention of Lynx forward Aerial Powers, who was looking to add a videographer to her team during the 2021 season. Since then, he’s continued working with players in both the WNBA and NBA, including Phoenix Suns’ Josh Okogie as his personal videographer, as well as Anthony Edwards.

“Last year was my first year filming NBA,” Englert says. “The first week of doing it, like the first week of games, preseason, and then up until like the third regular season game, I would say the whole time I was filming the games, it literally felt like a dream…It literally didn’t feel real. I was like, ‘Dang, I’m really here doing this.’”

Aside from shooting basketball content, which includes filming pre-NBA Draft workout videos for potential prospects, Englert has also shot real estate and fitness content. Like the players he works with, Englert is just as versatile within the videography game—during his senior year, he even filmed a short documentary about a friend’s life for a final project that won multiple awards and has been played at various film festivals, including the Minnesota Film Festival.

As he continues to build a following, Englert says he takes pride in making high-quality content and wants to continue “filming the NBA as much as possible” right now. For him, this is really just the beginning, and eventually, he even wants to bring a team of creators together to shoot content, too.

“Even to this day, I’m lost for words of how everything just came to be and how grateful I am for everybody [taking] a chance on me.”

The post Meet Josh Englert: the Videographer and Content Creator Capturing the NBA and WNBA Right Now appeared first on SLAM.

So far we have seen the Knicks land, Jalen Brunson, on a massive four-year deal, and Nikola Jokic and Karl-Anthony Towns have re-signed to their teams on supermax deals. Zach LaVine and Bradley Beal will remain with the Bulls and Wizards respectively after signing max deals. Young All-Stars like Ja Morant, Darius Garland, and Zion Williamson have also signed max extensions with their teams.

The Warriors will also look to be putting a different bench mob on the court this coming season after they let Gary Payton II, Otto Porter Jr., and Juan Toscano-Anderson walk away in free agency. The decision seems to imply that the Warriors will invest 100 percent into their win-and-develop model as they keep their championship core intact while empowering Andrew Wiggins, Jordan Poole, Jonathan Kuminga, James Wiseman, and Moses Moody.

Dallas Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber is finalizing a three-year, $33 million contract extension, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Kleber was entering the final year of his deal, now under contract through 2025-26.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 8, 2022

Montrezl Harrell is headed to Philly after a tumultuous offseason where he dealt with some legal troubles surrounding marijuana trafficking that was later reduced to misdemeanor possession in a Madison County (KY) courthouse. The charge will be expunged from his record in 12 months if Harrell doesn’t get in any more legal trouble.

James Harden recruited Harrell due to their relationship as teammates on the Rockets. Harrell is expected to bring some toughness and grit to a Philly team that needed a backup big man behind two-time MVP runner-up Joel Embiid.

ESPN Sources: Free agent C Montrezl Harrell is signing two-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, including a player option. Harrell brings more toughness to a team searching for it this offseason. He was Sixth Man of the Year with Doc Rivers/Sam Cassell in 2019-2020 w/ Clippers.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 6, 2022

Sources: The Toronto Raptors signed Thaddeus Young to a two-year, $17 million extension, which includes player incentive bonuses and a $1 million partial guarantee for the 2023-24 season, @hoopshype has learned.

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 5, 2022

Gary Harris’ two-year extension with the Orlando Magic is flat $13M each season. The second season is fully non-guaranteed, a league source told @spotrac.

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) July 5, 2022

Sumner is fully recovered from a torn left Achilles that cost him the entire 2021-2022 season. He had been coming off his best NBA season with the Pacers prior to the injury, and now he’ll join the Nets’ backcourt rotation. https://t.co/5HfzZmkDZN

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 5, 2022

Free agent TJ Warren has agreed to a deal with the Brooklyn Nets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 5, 2022

Free agent center Gorgui Dieng has agreed to a one-year deal with the San Antonio Spurs, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 5, 2022

Cole Swider signed a two-year Two-Way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, a league source tells @spotrac.

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) July 4, 2022

Free agent center Serge Ibaka has agreed to a one-year deal to return to the Milwaukee Bucks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 4, 2022

The Brooklyn Nets signed Wake Forest Alondes Williams to a 2-way deal.

— Mike Vorkunov (@MikeVorkunov) July 4, 2022

Dragic is signing a one-year, $2.9M deal with the Bulls, sources said. https://t.co/f6VK9np1cf

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 3, 2022

Free agent Josh Okogie has agreed to a one-year deal with the Phoenix Suns, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 3, 2022

New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson has agreed on a five-year, $193 million designated maximum rookie extension that could earn him as much as $231 million, CAA Sports’ Co-Head of Basketball Austin Brown tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/z4lnVLD1GM

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022

Restricted free agent Cody Martin has agreed to a four-year, $32 million deal to return to the Charlotte Hornets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 2, 2022

Free agent G Eugene Omoruyi has agreed to a two-way contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder, his agent Mike George of @OneLegacySports tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022

Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star guard Darius Garland has agreed on a five-year, $193M maximum designated rookie contract extension that could be worth as much as $231M, @KlutchSports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN. It is the largest deal in franchise history.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022

Free agent guard Damion Lee has agreed to a one-year deal with the Phoenix Suns, source tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022

Free agent Donte DiVincenzo has agreed to a two-year, $9.3M deal with the Golden State Warriors, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Free agent guard Raul Neto is signing with the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent center Kevon Looney has agreed to a three-year, $25.5M deal to return to Golden State, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Free agent forward Derrick Jones Jr. has agreed to a two-year, $6.6 million deal to return to the Chicago Bulls, with player option in second season, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent center Robin Lopez has agreed to a one-year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Free agent F/C Drew Eubanks is returning to the Portland Trail Blazers on a one-year deal, his agent James Dunleavy of @excelbasketball tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

John Wall officially agrees with the Clippers on a two-year deal for the taxpayer midlevel. https://t.co/5yCuV4cePg

— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) July 1, 2022

Free agent C Jusuf Nurkic has agreed on a new four-year, $70 million deal to stay with the Portland Trail Blazers, @KlutchSports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/6vmHrdOZI3

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

NBA All-Star Zach LaVine has agreed to a five-year, $215.2 million maximum contract to return to the Chicago Bulls, with a player option in Year 5, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

The defending champs lose another valuable two-way star after Otto Porter Jr. signed with the Raptors on a two-year deal that has a player option.

Free agent Otto Porter Jr. — vital member of Golden State Warriors championship team — reached an agreement with the Toronto Raptors on a two-year deal with a player option, league sources tell @YahooSports. https://t.co/ck81fptKZh

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) July 1, 2022

Free agent G Theo Pinson is returning to the Dallas Mavericks on a one-year deal, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Free agent Aaron Holiday has agreed to a one-year deal with the Atlanta Hawks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent center Mitchell Robinson has agreed on a new four-year, $60 million contract to stay with the New York Knicks, his agents Thad Foucher and Joe Smith of @Wassbasketball tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/dnKtVQmln9

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Bruce Brown has agreed to a 2-year, $13M+ deal with the Denver Nuggets, sources tell ESPN.

— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) July 1, 2022

#Pistons to re-sign Marvin Bagley III, add Kevin Knox as free-agent frenzy begins: https://t.co/WVHahAmeKR

— Rod Beard (@detnewsRodBeard) July 1, 2022

Ricky Rubio played an integral part in the Cavs’ resurgence to the playoff scene last season before suffering a season-ending torn ACL in December. Rubio was traded to the Pacers near the trade deadline but the Cavs and Rubio were mutually interested in bringing back the former lottery pick point guard.

Free agent guard Ricky Rubio is nearing a deal on a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Zion Williamson, the 2021 All-Star phenom, has locked in on signing a max extension deal with the Pelicans. Williamson missed all of the 2021-2022 season while he recovered from foot surgery. The deal keeps Williamson in New Orleans through 2027-28.

Williamson said after the season ended, “I couldn’t sign it fast enough.” Indeed, the All-Star locks in commitment to New Orleans.

The deal is expected to include protections that both sides were sorting through overnight and will finalize, sources said. https://t.co/n0hyRwRk9e

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

The Golden State Warriors lose one of their best and most versatile defenders after Gary Payton II decided to head towards playing for the Portland Trail Blazers on a three-year deal. Payton led the League in steals per 36 minutes.

Warriors were unwilling to meet that high of a price tag (and resulting tax spike) for Gary Payton II and have now lost their defensive ace off the bench to the Blazers. He led the NBA in steals per 36 minutes last season. https://t.co/iaY6xmUrG7

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) July 1, 2022

Free agent center Andre Drummond is finalizing a deal with the Chicago Bulls, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent Kevin Knox has agreed to a two-year, $6 million deal with the Detroit Pistons, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent Kevin Knox has agreed to a two-year, $6 million deal with the Detroit Pistons, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent JaVale McGee has agreed to a three-year, $20.1 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, with player option for third season, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Ja Morant is locked in with the Grizzlies after his agent told Woj that he signed a five-year max extension to lead Memphis as its lead guard for the foreseeable future.

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has agreed on a five-year, $193M designated rookie maximum extension that could become worth $231M, his agent Jim Tanner of @_TandemSE tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Karl Anthony-Towns has reportedly agreed to a four-year super max extension per his agent. KAT’s contract will begin during the 2024-2025 season.

Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns has agreed on a four-year, $224M super max extension, his agent Jessica Holtz of @CAA_Basketball tells ESPN. Deal begins with the 2024-25 season and delivers Towns’ total contract value to six years and $295M.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Jalen Brunson has reportedly agreed to the four-year deal that the Knicks offered him. Woj reported that the near-max deal includes a player option on its final season.

Free agent guard Jalen Brunson has agreed to a four-year, $104 million deal with the New York Knicks, his agents Aaron Mintz and Sam Rose of @CAA_Basketball tell ESPN. The deal includes a player option on the final season.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

The Wizards have added three veteran guards to join Bradley Beal in recent days — Will Barton, Monte Morris and now Delon Wright leaves the Hawks for Washington. https://t.co/4YFMxR2o7Z

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Kyle Anderson has agreed to a two-year, $18M deal to join the Timberwolves, his agents Thad Foucher and Joe Smith of @wassbasketball tell ESPN. https://t.co/fWzhFhVfkx

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Orlando Magic guard Gary Harris has agreed on a two-year, $26 million contract extension, his agents Austin Brown and Aaron Mintz of @CAA_Basketball tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Anthony Gill is signing a two year-deal with the Washington Wizards, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Restricted free agent C Nic Claxton has agreed on a two-year, $20 million deal to return to the Brooklyn Nets, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent Troy Brown Jr. has agreed to a minimum deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Lonnie Walker IV is signing a one-year, $6.5M deal with the Lakers, sources said. https://t.co/7xBnStLWfo

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Rockets restricted free agent Jae’Sean Tate has agreed to a three-year, $22.1 million deal to return to Houston, his agents E.J. Kusnyer and Jordan Cornish of @beyond_am tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent center Dewayne Dedmon has agreed to a two-year, $9 million deal to return to the Miami Heat, agents Mike Silverman and Brandon Grier of @steinbergsports tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent Davon Reed has agreed to a two-year deal to return to the Denver Nuggets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent guard Jevon Carter has agreed to a two-year deal to return to Milwaukee, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent Wesley Matthews has agreed to a one-year deal to return to the Milwaukee Bucks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent G Trevelin Queen has agreed a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent F Nic Batum has agreed to a two-year deal to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent G Lu Dort has agreed to a five-year, $87.5M deal to stay with the Oklahoma City Thunder, his agent Thad Foucher of Wasserman tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Chris Boucher is returning to the Toronto Raptors on a three-year, $35.25M deal, his agent Sam Permut of @RocNationSports tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Jones’ agent, Austin Brown of @CAA_Basketball, tells ESPN the second year is a player option.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Amir Coffey has agreed to a three-year, $11M deal with the Clippers, his agents Bill Duffy and Marlon Harrison of @BDA_Sports and WME Sports tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent G Tyus Jones is returning to the Memphis Grizzlies on a two-year, $30M deal, his agent Kevin Bradbury of @REP1Basketball tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent Danuel House has agreed to a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent Bobby Portis has agreed to a four-year, $49 million deal to return to the Milwaukee Bucks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Deal includes a player option in Year 4.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent PJ Tucker is finalizing a three-year, $33.2 million fully guaranteed deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, his agent Andre Buck (@andrebuck14) told @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent Victor Oladipo has agreed to a one-year, $11 million deal to return to the Miami Heat, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent center Isaiah Hartenstein has agreed to a two-year, $16 million-plus deal with the New York Knicks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Fully guaranteed deal for Hartenstein.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent center DeAndre Jordan has agreed to a deal with the Denver Nuggets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Sources: Malik Monk is signing a two-year, $19M deal to join the Kings. https://t.co/spgbvRZspx

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns have reportedly finalized a four-year supermax extension that he will likely sign sometime next week. Shams Charania reports that he will be the cover athlete for NBA 2K23.

The Phoenix Suns and All-NBA guard Devin Booker are finalizing a four-year, $214 million supermax contract extension that he’s set to sign as soon as next week, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

Booker will also be the cover athlete for NBA 2K23, per sources.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Nikola Jokic has reportedly signed the richest deal in NBA history after signing a supermax contract extension with the Nuggets on Thursday.

Two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic has agreed to a five-year, $264 million supermax contract extension with the Denver Nuggets, the richest deal in NBA history, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Fifth season (2027-28) will be a player option at $60M.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Bradley Beal will stay in the Nation’s Capital after he reportedly signed a five-year max deal.

All-Star guard Bradley Beal has agreed to a five-year, $251 million maximum contract to stay with the Washington Wizards, his agent Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons has agreed on a four-year, $100 million contract extension, his agent Bill Duffy of @BDA_Sports + WME Sports tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

The Spurs are pulling the qualifying offer on Lonnie Walker IV, making him an unrestricted free agent, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Expect a strong market for Walker immediately.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Jalen Brunson is headed to New York after Shams Charania reported that he intends on signing a four-year deal with the franchise.

Free agent Jalen Brunson intends to sign a four-year, near $110M deal with the New York Knicks in free agency, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. The Mavericks never received chance to make offer, sources said.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

According to Alex Schiffer of The Athletic, P.J. Tucker will be pursued by Atlanta, Minnesota, Brooklyn, Chicago. and Philadelphia during the free agency period of the NBA offseason. Furthermore, Schiffer reports that Tucker is unlikely to return to South Beach.

Multiple teams — including Atlanta, Minnesota, Brooklyn, Chicago and Philadelphia — are expected to compete for PJ Tucker in free agency. All are expected to offer the full mid-level/TPMLE exception. He is unlikely to return to Miami, per sources.

— Alex Schiffer (@Alex__Schiffer) June 30, 2022

Trent Forrest will be an unrestricted free agent after the Jazz decided not to extend a qualifying offer to the point guard out of Florida State.

The Utah Jazz will not extend a qualifying offer to point guard Trent Forrest, making him an unrestricted free agent, League Sources tell The Athletic. There is interest in working something out during free agency. Forrest was a member of the rotation this past season

— Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) June 30, 2022

Per Marcus Thompson of The Athletic, Juan Toscano-Anderson will be an unrestricted free agent once the free agency period of the NBA offseason begins on Thursday. The 29-year-old became the first Mexican-American to win an NBA title after the Warriors won the 2022 NBA Finals.

“I got a championship with my hometown team,” JTA told Thompson during a phone interview Wednesday night.

“I’m stamped in the Town. I’m stamped in my country. That shit can’t nobody take from me. You’ve got to give a little to get a little. And I gave up playing time to, you know, become a legend. I’m a legend in the Town. I’m a legend in Mexico. And I’m not saying that myself. It’s showing, know what I mean?”

Juan Toscano-Anderson is at peace with leaving the Warriors.

“I’m stamped in the Town. I’m stamped in my country. That shit can’t nobody take from me.”

It’s time for the next chapter of his storybook journey.https://t.co/m94B7ILm2u pic.twitter.com/5OxoGWXG6P

— Marcus Thompson II (@ThompsonScribe) June 30, 2022

According to Tim Reynolds, the Heat does not have a meeting scheduled with restricted free agent Jalen Brunson on Thursday.

The Heat are not planning to meet with Jalen Brunson today, and they did not have such a meeting scheduled, per league source.

— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) June 30, 2022

The Cavs are reportedly expected to match offers given to restricted free agent Collin Sexton. Multiple reports say Sexton wants a “starting guard” extension. The Alabama product is coming off a season-ending torn meniscus.

Cavs Expected To Match Outside Offers For Collin Sexton – Hoops Wire https://t.co/9k5zuRmUAd

— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) June 30, 2022

The Jazz won’t extend a qualifying offer to forward Eric Paschall, sources tell @Tjonesonthenba.

He will become an unrestricted free agent.https://t.co/fcOCtqEmMN pic.twitter.com/ok07Xpx9Dr

— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) June 30, 2022

Kemba Walker and the Pistons have reportedly agreed to a contract buyout. Walker will be a free agent after he clears waivers. Walker last played for the Knicks last season before he was traded to the Pistons as New York clears space to sign fellow free agent Jalen Brunson.

Four-time All-Star guard Kemba Walker and the Detroit Pistons are finalizing a contract buyout, sources tell ESPN. Once Walker clears waivers, he’ll join free agency.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Per Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, the Heat have guaranteed the contracts of Max Strus, Gabe Stevenson, and Omer Yurtseven as of Thursday morning.

Max Strus, Gabe Vincent and Omer Yurtseven are still on the Heat’s roster this morning, which means their full $1.8 million salaries for next season are now guaranteed. This was seen as a formality. Carry on.

— Anthony Chiang (@Anthony_Chiang) June 30, 2022

The Sacramento Kings are exercising the option on PF/C Chimezie Metu for the 2022-2023 season, sources tell ESPN. Metu averaged 8.9 points and 5.6 rebounds in 21 minutes a game for the Kings last season.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Patty Mills will be exploring his options on the free-agent market after declining to sign his player option with the Nets on Wednesday afternoon.

Brooklyn Nets guard Patty Mills declined his $6.2M option and will become a free agent, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

The Kings won’t be offering a qualifying offer to Donte DiVencenzo, making him an unrestricted free agent.

The Sacramento Kings are declining to offer Donte DiVencenzo a qualifying offer, which will make him an unrestricted free agent, sources tell ESPN. There will be significant interest in DiVencenzo on the open market.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Lu Dort will be a restricted free agent after the OKC Thunder decided to not sign Durt’s team option for the 2022-23 season, per Shams Charania.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are declining the $1.9 million team option on froward Lu Dort for 2022-23 season, which makes him a restricted free agent and allows sides to negotiate a new deal in free agency, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2022

James Harden will hit the free-agent market for the first time in his career but he is likely to re-sign with the 76ers.

ESPN Sources: 76ers star James Harden has declined his $47.3M option and become a free agent. He keeps real the possibility of negotiating a new deal that would deliver the Sixers roster-building flexibility in free agency – including use of the full $10.5M exception.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Bobby Portis told the Bucks that he’ll decline his player option and will instead become a free agent.

Portis has early bird rights in Milwaukee.

The maximum that he can sign for is 4 years/$49M.

The contract has to be for a minimum of 2 seasons and cannot include an option in year 2. https://t.co/Nu5KC9G8D9

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) June 29, 2022

Bradley Beal has made his long-awaited decision and will become a free agent for the first time in his career after declining his player option.

Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal has declined his $36.4M option and become a free agent, his agent Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports tells ESPN. Beal is eligible to sign a 5-year max to return to Wizards – or sign elsewhere on a 4-year deal.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Jae-Sean Tate will be a restricted free agent after the ROckets declined his team option for the 2022-23 season. Shams Charania reports that Houston and Tate are mutually interested in signing a new deal once free agency begins on Thursday.

The Houston Rockets have declined forward Jae’Sean Tate’s $1.8 million team option for next season, making him a restricted free agent, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Rockets and Tate have mutual interest in discussing new deal in free agency beginning Thursday night.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2022

The Cavaliers have reportedly elected to not offer Moses Brown a qualifying offer to Moses Brown, per Michael Scott of the Hoopshype. The decision allows Brown to enter the free-agent market as an unrestricted free agent.

Sources: The Cleveland Cavaliers won’t tender a qualifying offer to center Moses Brown, @hoopshype has learned. The 7-foot-1, 22-year-old center will become an unrestricted free agent. Brown could be an intriguing development option for NBA teams around the league.

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) June 28, 2022

According to Adrian Wojnarowski, Taurean Prince and the Timberwolves have reportedly agreed to a two-year contract extension.

Minnesota Timberwolves F Taurean Prince has agreed on a two-year, $16 million contract extension, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Ivica Zubac and his reps have reportedly agreed to a three-year extension with the Clippers, per Woj. The Clippers declining to sign his team option led to the agreement with Zubac.

Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac has agreed on a three-year, $33 million extension, his agents Jeff Schwartz and Mike Lindeman of @excelbasketball tell ESPN. The Clippers declined his $7.5M team option for 2022-2023, clearing the way for Zubac’s new deal.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 28, 2022

Tony Bradley is reportedly opting into his player option and will remain with the Bulls next season, per Woj.

Chicago Bulls center Tony Bradley is exercising his $2M player option for next season, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 28, 2022

The post 2022 NBA Free Agency Tracker appeared first on SLAM.

Last week, Brown spoke to The Undefeated’s Marc J. Spears, stating his belief that the influx of NBA players of African descent has helped level the playing field, giving the Nigeria a realistic chance to win their first medal at the Olympic Games.

“There are more players of Nigerian descent in the NBA than probably any other country besides the U.S…the talent is there. It’s just about getting everybody organized and on the same page and getting everybody excited about playing and wanting to be a part. And so there are right around 10 or so guys in the NBA that are going to come and try out for the team. So looking forward to mixing some of that NBA talent with some very talented individuals that are playing professionally in Europe and abroad.”

According to Spears, forward Al-Farouq Aminu (Chicago Bulls), center Chimezie Metu (Sacramento Kings), guard Josh Okogie (Minnesota Timberwolves), center Jahlil Okafor (Detroit Pistons) and forward Wes Iwundu (New Orleans Pelicans) are expected to join Morris and Anunoby. He adds that former NBA players Emeka Okafor, Festus Ezeli and Ben Uzoh could also join the roster.

Per Nigerian journalist Colin Udoh, guard Miye Oni and center Udoka Azubuike of the Utah Jazz; guard Gabe Vincent and forwards KZ Okpala and Precious Achiuwa of the Miami Heat; and Milwaukee Bucks forward Jordan Nwora will also join the list of 13 NBA players expected to comprise the Nigerian national team.

With the FIBA AfroBasket tournament quickly approaching as well, Brown may have to field two national teams for Nigeria to compete in the Olympics and AfroBasket, respectively.

If this is the case, expect wing Aaron Nesmith (Boston Celtics), forward Zeke Nnaji (Denver Nuggets), guard Desmond Bane (Memphis Grizzlies) and guard Spencer Dinwiddie (Brooklyn Nets) to be in consideration for national team roster spots as well.

Morris, who’s nationality switch was made known officially in March, will join the team as a roster exemption and make his international debut with Nigeria.

In 47 games, the four-year pro has averaged 10.2 points, 2.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game while shooting .479 percent from the field and .393 percent from 3-point range.

Anunoby is a player that Brown had on his radar since taking over as the Nigeria coach two years ago and seeing his name on the roster has brought excitement and energy to the Nigerian basketball program.

In 43 games, Anunoby showed flashes of why the Raptors consider him one of the cornerstones of their franchise with averages of 15.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game.

Nigeria, which became the first African team to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics after the 2019 FIBA World Cup, will be in group B alongside Australia, and the winners of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Serbia and Croatia from June 29 to July 4.

D’Tigers, who will also led by longtime team captain Ike Diogu, face Team USA’s men’s basketball team in the Olympics on July 10.

We meet again @usabasketball!

July 10
Nigeria vs. USA pic.twitter.com/yHzAB8Ev23

— D’Tigers | Nigeria Basketball (@NigeriaBasket) June 22, 2021

The post 13 NBA Players Have Been Named to Nigeria’s Preliminary Olympics Roster appeared first on SLAM.

Congratulations, @Jrue_Holiday11!! pic.twitter.com/1ujUYOnBJt

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) June 4, 2021

“It means a lot,” Holiday said after receiving the Joe Dumars Trophy, which is given to the NBA player who best represents the ideals of sportsmanship on the court. “Just knowing that it came from the players, the guys that go through this with me and put their bodies on the line, train in the offseason, it means a lot.”

Holiday received 130 of 343 first-place votes and was one of six finalists selected by a panel of NBA executives after all teams nominated a player from their rosters. The award honors a player who best represents sportsmanship on the court.

The other finalists included two-time winner Kemba Walker (Boston Celtics); Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat); Harrison Barnes (Sacramento Kings); Derrick White (San Antonio Spurs); and Josh Okogie (Minnesota Timberwolves).

The NBA Sportsmanship Award honors Hall of Famer Joe Dumars, a six-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion. Dumars, who spent all 14 seasons of his career with the Detroit Pistons, won the first Sportsmanship Award after the 1995-96 season.

Holiday, a 12-year veteran that’s long been known to be well-respected by his peers and community, donated a portion of his 2019-20 salary to form the Jrue and Lauren Holiday Social Impact Fund. His foundation funded close to $1 million in grants for African American-owned businesses and other African American organizations in the Milwaukee, New Orleans, Indianapolis and Los Angeles areas.

The 30-year-old won the Twyman-Stokes award as the league’s best teammate last year. This past week, Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers was selected as the award winner.

The post Bucks’ Jrue Holiday Takes Joe Dumars Sportsmanship Award appeared first on SLAM.

Expect Ricky Rubio and D’Angelo Russell to ramp up as they acclimate to sharing time in Minnesota’s backcourt, that may be a critical piece of the puzzle if this team hopes to compete for a playoff spot.

For more information about the numbers behind our Heat Check series, hop over to our main Heat Check 2020-21 post.

Jarred Vanderbilt	5.5p, 6.5r, 3.5a
Malik Beasley	17.0p, 4.8r, 1.0a
Naz Reid	9.5p, 3.8r, 2.0a
Ed Davis	1.3p, 4.3r, 0.7a	–
Jarrett Culver	8.0p, 7.5r, 0.5a	–
Karl-Anthony Towns	19.0p, 11.5r, 5.0a
Josh Okogie	8.0p, 3.3r, 1.7a
Jake Layman	3.5p, 1.3r, 0.5a
Jordan McLaughlin	3.0p, 1.5r, 5.0a
Juancho Hernangomez	2.0p, 3.3r, 0.0a
D’Angelo Russell	17.3p, 2.5r, 4.3a
Ricky Rubio	9.5p, 2.3r, 4.5a

Team-by-Team Breakdown

The post Heat Check 2020-21: Minnesota Timberwolves appeared first on SLAM.

We broke down the Timberwolves’ depth chart for the 2020-21 season below. We’ve also previously published a summary of the Timberwolves’ offseason.

Biggest Questions

• Will Malik Beasley be suspended in the upcoming season? Under investigation for several charges, there’s a chance the Wolves could be without him for a stretch of the upcoming season.
• Is D’Angelo Russell a servicable number two option on a playoff team? With an entire offseason to settle in, there will be high expectations for him playing alongside Karl-Anthony Towns this season.

All NBA Team Offseason Summaries

The post Minnesota Timberwolves: Projected 2020-21 Depth Chart appeared first on SLAM.

That’s what everyone is trying to figure out, as the T’Wolves seem as if they’re starting to view their lottery pick as a burden rather than a blessing. Whether Minnesota will trade the pick or use it to select one of the projected top three picks is still an unknown but the Timberwolves will still come out on top, as they’ll undoubtedly get better no matter what they do.

Minnesota is embarking on a new era, trading away former first overall pick Andrew Wiggins for D’Angelo Russell. With D-Lo and Karl-Anthony Towns the current franchise cornerstones, the Wolves have a great chance of adding to their core and finding the player that bits best between the pieces they already have with three picks in the upcoming draft.

Related: Full Minnesota Timberwolves 2020 Salary Cap Preview

2020 NBA Draft Picks

Timberwolves Draft Needs

For Minnesota to maximize their opportunities this offseason, the 2020 NBA Draft will be crucial.

Russell and KAT are a strong and dynamic offensive pairing but Minnesota is lacking defensively with those two are their best players. Their defensive deficiencies are further enhanced by the absence of Robert Covington (who was sent to the Houston Rockets in a four-team trade that ultimately allowed Minnesota to land Malik Beasley and Juan Hernangomez).

After trying to locate their third star with the first overall pick, the Timberwolves need to focus on establishing a stronger defensive presence as they rank 28th in opponent’s points per game. The Timberwolves are destined to be a team with big names and no real success unless they can stop somebody.

2020 NBA Draft Prospect Watchlist

What The Mocks Are Saying

Projected Roster

Team-by-Team NBA Draft Guides

More: SLAM’s 2020 NBA Draft Preview

The post Minnesota Timberwolves: 2020 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on SLAM.

In addition to a summary for each of the 30 teams (accessible in the link grid below), we’ve also tiered the top NBA free agents league-wide and published a general comparison of all teams’ cap space. Follow @SLAMnewswire on Twitter for constant offseason updates as we head into free agency.

Projected Roster Players

Projected Free Agents

Dead Money

2020 NBA Draft Picks

Exceptions Available

• Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception – $9,258,000
• Bi-Annual Exception – $3,623,000

Key Offseason Decisions

• Do the Timberwolves guarantee all three of their non-guaranteed players? Naz Reid is a no-brainer. He became a rotation player by season’s end and now looks like a backup for Karl-Anthony Towns. Jaylen Nowell will probably be guaranteed as well. He’s got enough upside on a small enough contract. Jarred Vanderbilt is more of a question mark. Given the Wolves have no chance of cap space, they’ll probably bring him back as well.
• Will Minnesota be forced to match an offer sheet for either Malik Beasley or Juancho Hernangomez? Both Beasley and Hernangomez could be interesting targets for the cap space teams this summer. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see either fetch an offer sheet and for the Timberwolves to have to swallow hard on matching.
• Does Minnesota stick with the first overall pick? Teams rarely trade out of the first pick. Minnesota has a lot of holes and there are no surefire stars. Could they trade back slightly and pick up some additional assets?

Projected Team Salary

$159,373,622

Minnesota’s offseason is dependent on what they do at the draft and with their own restricted free agents. Malik Beasley and Juancho Hernangomez played well after being acquired at the trade deadline. The should both be back, but big offer sheets could make the Wolves question matching. Kelan Martin and Jordan McLaughlin were two of the better Two-Way players, so they should both be back as well. And the draft holds plenty of intrigue, as Minnesota currently holds the first and 17^th picks in the first round. (@KeithSmithNBA)

Cap Space Forecast

-$50,233,622(23^rd out of 30). $34,206,846 under the Luxury Tax.

Team Salary Cap Outlooks

The post Minnesota Timberwolves: Salary Cap Space 2020 appeared first on SLAM.

We’ve listed the entire roster with comparisons to last year’s launch rating below. We’ve also identified some general NBA 2K21 ratings trends for the league as a whole.

Timberwolves NBA 2K21 Ratings

View the NBA 2K21 player ratings for other teams below.

The post Minnesota Timberwolves: NBA 2K21 Ratings appeared first on SLAM.

—

On the evening of Thursday, June 4, thousands gather at Revolution Hall in Portland, Oregon’s Southeast neighborhood to march against police brutality and the recent murders of Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, whose murder caught on video at the hands of Minnesota police officers sparked global outrage. As the protest heads two miles toward the Southwest waterfront over the Morrison Bridge, a Black grandmother who has been here before marches with her granddaughter who’s likely new to the fight. A multiracial group of high school students capture video on social media, as a middle-aged, same-sex couple walks in unison carrying a large sign that reads, “Black Lives Matter.” Floyd and Taylor’s names fuel emotionally charged chants, muted only by moments of silence honoring them and other victims. The protestors signify Portland as a city looking for unity and change. And at the front of the movement, leading the people in lockstep, is Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard.

The Black Lives Matter movement has reached unprecedented support since Floyd’s death on May 25, 2020, with organized protests across all 50 US states and over 60 countries. Truthfully, police brutality isn’t new. Nor is capturing it on video. But amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, everything deemed non-essential has been placed on pause. People have had more opportunity than ever to watch Floyd’s death and internalize what is really going on. With protests arising across the country, NBA players have joined in with their presence and platforms. Minnesota Timberwolves players Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Okogie joined former NBA player Stephen Jackson to protest for Floyd, who was a close friend of Jackson’s, in Minneapolis. Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown drove 15 hours from Boston to organize a protest in his hometown of Atlanta. And reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo led several of his Bucks teammates to join a protest in Milwaukee, while calling for change and justice over a bullhorn.

All of their efforts are significant, but other than Jackson, whose proximity to Floyd rightfully centers his voice, Lillard leading Portland in a protest hits different given the city’s tense racial history. Portland’s a complicated microcosm of America. A progressive environment on its surface, it’s a city that’s built on prejudice and unjust racial inequalities once you peel back a few layers. Oregon’s foundation has an uncomfortable and often omitted historical timeline of aggressively anit-Black legislation, events and organizations. Dating back to the 1850s, laws made it illegal for Black people to live in the state or own property; state officials intentionally chose not to ratify both the 14th and 15th Amendments to the Constitution until 1973; and Portland was a well-known epicenter for hate groups as recently as the mid 2000s.

Lillard’s been with the Blazers since 2012, his outward affinity for the city of Portland growing more evident each year. He’s performed as Dame D.O.L.L.A. at several shows with local artists. Other members of his family work with the city’s youth, and it’s far from uncommon to see him at a local establishment supporting small business. He’s openly talked about how much he wants to go down as the best Trail Blazer ever and, considering his investment in the community, he’s an NBA Finals appearance away from being the Rose City’s GOAT.

But the same city that loves Lillard doesn’t always make the six percent of people who look like him feel quite as welcome. Portland’s often considered a place where creative opportunities seem endless, which might actually be true for some residents. But for many Black people in Portland, side-stepping stressfully damaging microaggressions and trite stereotypes in community spaces and work environments is part of the day-to-day. Even the African Americans and POC who fuel the city’s creative industries deal with racism, exclusion and are made to feel as though they should just be thankful to be there. Co-workers mine them for their “cultural insights” in systems that seldom promote people of color but couldn’t exist without them. And to be a Black person outside of Portland’s cool kid industries can make you feel largely unseen.

Like his NBA brethren in other cities, Lillard stepping up to join the conversation is so important because he bridges entire communities. As great a player as he is, Portland adopted Dame because he’s the type of leader willing to work when no one is looking and fight like a mad underdog for the city when it counts. And that’s the type of dedication necessary for Portland, and all other cities across America, to put toward ending racial inequalities in order to enact change. Let’s hope the energy is reciprocated.

The list of NBA and WNBA players who have shown up for Black Lives Matter protests is extensive. SoCal natives DeMar DeRozan and Russell Westbrook spoke out against police brutality at a rally in Compton, with DeRozan revealing that he recently had a friend slain by police. Golden State Warriors swingman Juan Toscano-Anderson led teammates Damion Lee, Kevon Looney, Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry at a protest in Oakland. Current and former Kings Harrison Barnes and Matt Barnes showed up to represent at a demonstration in Sacramento. Pelicans forward Jaxson Hayes attended a protest in NOLA, and Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson attended a march in Los Angeles. Pacers guard Malcolm Brogdon delivered a powerful speech in Atlanta, and Sixers forward Tobias Harris joined the movement in Philadelphia. Enes Kanter drove from Chicago to Boston to protest alongside Celtics teammate Marcus Smart.

Karima Christmas-Kelly of the Minnesota Lynx attended a vigil in Minneapolis where Floyd was murdered. Renee Montgomery passed out bottled water to protestors in Atlanta. Seattle Storm teammates Jewell Loyd and Breanna Stewart both addressed the crowd at a local protest. Several players from the Fever marched for equality in Indiana. Aces star Liz Cambage led passionate chants for justice on the streets of Melbourne, Australia. Members of the Wizards and Mystics peacefully protested together in DC.

The fight for justice continues. And basketball players remain at the forefront.

—

One hundred percent of proceeds from SLAM’s new issue will be donated to the Social Change Fund. Grab your copy here.

Terrence Watson is a contributor to SLAM. Follow him on Twitter @LowerEastScribe.

Photos by Bruce Ely and via Getty.

The post How NBA & WNBA Players Became Leaders in the BLM Movement appeared first on SLAM.

In this post, just one of a series of 30, we’ll break down the reports that have started to trickle out about Wolves players that may or may not be on the move. While there’s no guarantee when it comes to a league as wild as the modern NBA, it doesn’t hurt to brush up on each squad’s roster as the deadline draws near.

Players Unlikely To Be Traded

• Karl-Anthony Towns
• Jarrett Culver

This is a team that could look drastically different at the beginning of the 2020-21 season; it’s just a matter of whether Minnesota makes moves prior to the deadline or this summer. The franchise had hopes of making the postseason, though it would be a wild upset if that happens now after a half-season of injuries and disappointment. Despite all the Karl-Anthony Towns trade speculation, the team isn’t moving its franchise cornerstone over the next week. It would be nearly as surprising if the Wolves deal Jarrett Culver, who was the No. 6 overall pick in the 2019 draft.

Biggest Name Available On Market

• Robert Covington

The Wolves are shopping Covington and several teams are interested. The Sixers have eyes for their former wing and the Mavs have been linked to him. He’s on a team-friendly contract that will pay him $11.3M this season, $12.1M next, and $13.0M in 2021-22. Contenders with higher payrolls would love to have someone who can contribute at this price tag.

Logical Trade Pieces

• Andrew Wiggins

Andrew Wiggins hasn’t lived up to the expectations of being the No. 1 pick back in 2014. However, he’s having a bit of a resurgence this season, scoring 22.9 points while sporting a career-high 16.9 player efficiency rating. He’s making $27.5M this season and he’s owed over $94M in the ensuing three years. That deal has never looked as attractive as it does this season. 

Trades Are Possible

• Allen Crabbe
• Gorgui Dieng
• Jake Layman
• Josh Okogie
• Noah Vonleh
• Shabazz Napier
• Jordan Bell
• Keita Bates-Diop
• Jaylen Nowell
• Naz Reid

Allen Crabbe recently came over in the Jeff Teague trade. While it’s unlikely that the team deals him, if the Wolves do, they’ll face restrictions: Crabbe can’t be combined with other players on the team in a deal. Gorgui Dieng is available. He’s got one more year on his contract after this season. Jake Laymen signed with the team over the summer. He has appeared in just 14 games for the club. Josh Okogie has seen action in 46 games for Minnesota. He’s under team control through the 2021-22 campaign. Noah Vonleh joined the team during the offseason on a one year, $2.0M deal. He’s sporting a career-high 15.6 player efficiency rating. Shabazz Napier joined Minnesota via a trade with the Warriors (he was dealt to Golden State in the Kevin Durant sign-and-trade over the summer). Jordan Bell inked a one-year deal with the Wolves back in July and he hasn’t really had too much of an impact for the team other than having his shirt untucked during a December game which cost them the win. Keita Bates-Diop has appeared in 35 games for Minnesota. His contract for next season is non-guaranteed. Jaylen Nowell has seen action in just seven games for the club. The 2019 No. 43 overall pick spent much of his rookie season in the G League. Undrafted rookie Naz Reid has received some opportunity for the club, though he has some work to do on his game. The center is making just 39.6% of 91 attempts from the field.

The post 2020 NBA Trade Deadline Primer: Minnesota Timberwolves appeared first on SLAM.

The World

Team USA

Feb. 11: Collin Sexton replaces Tyler Herro on Team USA.

Notable

• Two players from this year’s Rising Stars game, Trae Young and Luka Doncic, have already been voted in as All-Star Game starters.
• Zion Williamson gets the nod despite having played in just four regular season contests. He’s technically a replacement player for Wendell Carter Jr.
• Shail Gilgeous-Alexander and Nickeil Alexander-Walker are cousins from Canada. They’re joined by Brandon Clarke and RJ Barrett, making it a total of four Canadian players on The World squad.
• The Charlotte Hornets have three representatives in the game (Miles Bridges, DeVonte’ Graham and P.J. Washington). Two of those players are sophomores (Graham and Bridges) that didn’t qualify for the game last year when it was hosted in Charlotte.

Related: Check out the recently named All-Star Reserves

The post 2020 NBA Rising Stars Roster appeared first on SLAM.

Nothing beats the first set of returns that come in after the early success stories around the NBA. Time and again we see both fresh and familiar faces take the first weeks of the season to make a statement.

NBA 2K20 has released its first batch of rating updates and the names that have gained the most are turning heads across the country.

We’ve assembled team-by-team breakdowns for each squad, which you can access in the table below. See which players are trending up and which saw their ratings decline since the video game launched in September.

Early Season Risers

+7 Devonte Graham (76): It’s a brave new world in Charlotte as the Hornets adapt to life without Kemba Walker. Fortunately, 24-year-old Devonte Graham has burst out of the gates with some enormous performances in the first stretch of his sophomore campaign. Graham dropped 23 in the season opener, 35 earlier this week and even dropped 12 dimes in a game late last month.

+6 Eric Paschall (77): The injury ravaged Golden State Warriors needed all the help they could get early on and found some in the form of their 2019 second-round pick Eric Paschall. Paschall followed up a 25-point gem with a 34-point showing on his 23rd birthday last week and could be a big part of the Dubs rotation heading forward.

+6 Kendrick Nunn (76): If Kendrick Nunn’s 40-point preseason finale wasn’t enough of an indication that the undrafted rookie can fill the statsheet, his three games of 24-plus in October may have done the trick. No player since Kevin Durant has scored more points across their first five games in the league. Now we wait to see if the volume can hold now that Jimmy Butler is back in the lineup.

+6 Duncan Robinson (73): The Heat have always been good at filling out their rotation with homegrown, meticulously developed talent. Consider Duncan Robinson one of the latest to prove that he’s capable of more than we initially expected. Robinson hasn’t filled the statsheet quite like the players above him on this list but he’s topped 20 twice, showing that he’s got an extra gear when head coach Erik Spoelstra needs it.

+4 Trae Young (89), Brandon Ingram (85), Derrick Rose (84), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (83), OG Anunoby (77), P.J. Washington (76), Isaac Bonga (72),

+3 Luka Doncic (90), Andre Drummond (89) , Malcolm Brogdon (86), Wendell Carter Jr. (81), Aron Baynes (78), Tyler Herro (76), Josh Okogie (76), Brandon Clarke (76), DeAndre Bembry (76), Mortiz Wagner (74), Damion Lee (73)

The post Updated NBA 2K Ratings Show Early Movers appeared first on SLAM.

Taurasi had her own kicks back in 2006. The Nike Shox DT came and went quickly and it’s already, unfortunately, been forgotten. It was a funky-looking silhouette built on Nike’s patented Shox technology. The cushioning was mixed with Zoom Air and it trailed up to a big overlay that covered the midfoot and eventually wrapped around the collar. Taurasi only played in them for one season. She’s been playing in LeBron PEs ever since.

Taurasi, a three-time WNBA champ and four-time Olympic gold medalist, is the last woman sponsored by Nike to get a signature sneaker. The last woman to get a signature in the WNBA is Parker, who has two WNBA MVP trophies, two gold medals and a WNBA title. She’s consistently been laced in the latest adidas options ever since the early 2000s and adidas hooked her up with three of her own pairs, the last of which was in 2012 when the Ace3 came out.

It’s a stark, stark contrast from when women’s basketball exploded into the mainstream in the mid-’90s. Chamique Holdsclaw, Dawn Staley, Lisa Leslie, Cynthia Cooper, Rebecca Lobo and Nicki McCray were all given their own kicks by Nike, adidas, Reebok and Fila back in the day.

And then there was Sheryl Swoopes, a pioneer in basketball sneakers. Nike made seven different signature sneakers for Swoopes and she wore them as she was winning four consecutive WNBA titles with the Houston Comets and three Olympic gold medals. The impact of the first Air Swoopes still moves the Hall of Famer.

“I remember going to Portland, walking in the room and just seeing all of the stuff,” Swoopes told SLAM at the 2019 WNBA Draft about the first time she saw her signature sneaker. “It seemed so surreal to me at the moment. To walk in and, not only see any shoe, but to see my shoe, with my name on it, and to know that there were gonna be little girls out there, and hopefully little boys too, that have an opportunity to wear a women’s basketball shoe… I love Michael Jordan, but you don’t have to go and buy the Air Jordans anymore. You can go and buy the Air Swoopes. Even today, to say that, I’m like, ‘Wow that really did happen.’ I still get emotional to this day when I think about it.”

But there hasn’t been another player able to feel that type of emotion in nearly 10 years. Even as the talent level has soared across the W and players have taken strong stances against political and racial injustices, developing rock-solid personal brands, no company has stepped up with a sneaker.

The most that the brands do is give a select few players their own team-specific colorways. Parker is always playing in purple and gold kicks, Bird has been given the reigns to the Kyrie line and Taurasi has gotten Phoenix Mercury-themed LeBrons ever since Nike did away with her sneaker. Some of the league’s best young players get featured in marketing campaigns by Nike and adidas, where the spotlight shines on them briefly. But it’s not enough for Breanna Stewart and Nneka Ogwumike, two former MVPs, to get a couple of seconds of airtime in a branded Instagram video that also shows men with their own kicks.

If the high level of skill and the social awareness weren’t enough, the W is filled with huge sneakerheads, now more than ever. There will be old pairs of Kobes, the newest adidas and a wild custom pair on any given night during the summertime. Sneakers matter to them and to their fans.

“I remember in middle school I had Cynthia Cooper’s sneaker,” the W’s Sneaker Queen, Tamera Young, says. “Our team, actually, had it. It’s something for the kids as well that looks up to us. If you had WNBA players that have sneakers, it’s something that little girls could look up to.”

“It would just be an inspiration to young players to be able to wear shoes of their favorite women’s player,” the Chicago Sky’s Diamond DeShields says. “Visibility is key. I believe this would help promote that and ultimately contribute to the common goal of growing the league as a whole.”

The 24-year-old DeShields debuted the “Chicago” Air Fear of God 1 recently, a move co-signed by the sneaker’s designer, Jerry Lorenzo. He personally thanked DeShields in an Instagram post that went out to his one million-plus followers.

“It’s all a part of the evolution of the sport,” DeShields says about a woman having her own sneaker. “At what point is it gonna become normalized for women to share the same platform and opportunities as men? ‘Never’ won’t last in regard to this question so why not now?”

Like DeShields, a few women have been able to show off high-profile pairs. The Aces have a heavy-hitting duo in Wilson and Kayla McBride, both in terms of bucket-getting and sneaker-wearing. Wilson is the first WNBA player to get player exclusive Adapt BB colorways. She first rocked her personal colorway of the auto-lacing sneaker at NBA All-Star Weekend and then went on to debut the “Air MAG” Adapt BBs. And McBride was the first to launch the “NASA 50” colorway of the PG3. Tina Charles and Odyssey Sims got to break out the “SpongeBob” and “Patrick” Kyrie 5s. And the first player to wear the Nike Freak 1 on-court wasn’t Giannis Antetokounmpo or one of his brothers—it was Dallas Wings rookie Arike Ogunbowale.

“We’re at a time where we deserve our own signature shoe,” Wilson says. “It would help the WNBA’s evolution because that’s just a huge step of getting us out there as players. That is a big step. Of course, my favorite Dawn Staley and Sheryl Swoopes, they had their shoes but we need to bring that back. It brings a lot more coverage to our game and notice to our game. That’ll just help our game evolve.

Go down the line and look at the rest of the league and you’ll find ‘heads on every team, players that not only mess with sneakers but that can also truly hoop. Jewell Loyd, Elena Delle Donne, Chiney Ogwumike, Kia Nurse and Seimone Augustus are a few of the best players in the WNBA and a few of its biggest sneakerheads too.

Augustus, a future Hall of Famer that has four rings with the Minnesota Lynx, has been wearing customs for the last two seasons thanks to Salvatore Marcum. Marcum runs Mpls Customs and, in addition to working with Augustus, has also worked with Collin Sexton, Langston Galloway, Josh Okogie and a handful of NFL players.

“These women work harder than anyone I know,” Marcum says. “The passion is there, the love for the sport is there and the signature shoes would be a great step in the right direction for them as a whole to reach the publicity they deserve.

“Seimone’s a player I personally look up to,” Marcum continues. “We’ve done a lot of shoes together to bring awareness to things, such as the ‘Care Bear’ shoes for Pride Month and the native shoes for Native American Heritage Night.”

As Marcum notes, Augustus is one of the players that uses her platform to highlight what’s most important on a personal level. Los Angeles Sparks rookie Marina Mabrey recently did that too, when she used her platform to go after the incessant trolls that constantly leave sexist comments on social media. Mabrey rolled up to a game wearing a shirt with an image of a basketball court that read, “This is my Kitchen.”

“Sneakers are a symbol of a favorite player no different than a jersey,” Mabrey, a collegiate national champion at Notre Dame, says. “The more involved the fans are, the better the league will be. The evolution of basketball begins with participation of the fans. When young girls express their love of the game, we want them to want to be WNBA players.”

Mabrey agrees that a WNBA player with a signature sneaker would help to grow the women’s game and showcase all the skill that doesn’t get highlighted enough. DeShields seconds that.

“It would just help create more iconic players in the league,” DeShields says. “The biggest stars of the NBA have their own shoe, so I think creating that hierarchy within the W would only elevate the popularity of the game as a whole.”

It would also celebrate this group of the world’s best basketball players. It would be definitive recognition of the work they’ve put in and the respect they deserve. In basketball, the sneaker is a status symbol, a marker of the elite. It doesn’t get more elite in women’s basketball than the WNBA.

“It’s super important for us, as women, to have a signature shoe,” the Phoenix Mercury’s Brittney Griner says. Griner’s list of accomplishments runs deep. She’s got a WNBA title, an Olympic gold medal and two DPOY trophies. Plus, when she was drafted in 2013 as the No. 1 overall pick, she was signed by Nike as part of a trio with Elena Delle Donne and Skylar Diggins. It was a big signing at the time but all Griner has to show for it is a couple of PEs through the years.

“With our league being around 20-plus years now and all the hype behind us, women’s sports across the board, from Serena [Williams] in tennis to Megan [Rapinoe] kicking ass at soccer, it’s really time,” she continues. “Everybody always asks, ‘Where’s the shoes?’ It’s not just girls asking. Guys are asking. It’s time to test the waters. Not a shoe where we already had it and we throw a name on it. Actually sit down with the player, let them design the whole shoe and get it out there. Across the board, all brands, everybody. Everybody needs to start doing it. It’s time.”

—

Max Resetar is an Associate Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram. Additional reporting by Camille Buxeda.

The post No More Waiting: Give the WNBA Its Own Signature Sneakers appeared first on SLAM.

We’ve broken down the overall ratings for each player and sorted them by team so that you can see how your squad stacks up against the rest of the league.

Minnesota Timberwolves NBA 2K20 Ratings

This table is updated as of Nov. 22, 2019

Can’t get enough 2K? SLAM’s dedicated gaming channel, @SLAMftw, is blowing up. Hit us with your best uploads and watch our streams!

More NBA 2K20 Ratings

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Below is a list of the contract types the Minnesota Timberwolves have heading into training camp. This resource will be updated as players are signed and waived. Check back often to see if your team’s roster configuration has changed.

Minnesota Timberwolves

For a complete list of all the NBA teams and links to each team’s roster breakdown, check out our 2019 NBA Training Camp Index. Follow the curators of this database, Chris Crouse and Austin Kent, on Twitter.

More NBA Training Camp Rosters

The post Minnesota Timberwolves Roster Count: 2019 Training Camp appeared first on SLAM.

Doncic lived up to the hype during his first year in the league, averaging 21.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game for the Mavericks, establishing himself as a gutsy, clutch-time player that opposing teams will have to deal with for a long time coming.

Young quickly put to rest any concerns after a slow start and showed that his lights out college game translated to the NBA level. Young dropped 19.1 points and 8.1 assists per game as a rookie.

Deandre Ayton, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Marvin Bagley III joined Doncic and Young on the first team. Ayton received 95 of a possible 100 first-team votes after posting an impressive, if overshadowed, 16.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game.

The All-Rookie second team was led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Collin Sexton, with Landry Shamet, Mitchell Robinson and Kevin Huerter joining them on the list.

NBA All-Rookie First Team
Luka Doncic, DAL
Trae Young, ATL
Deandre Ayton, PHO
Jaren Jackson Jr., MEM
Marvin Bagley III, SAC

NBA All-Rookie Second Team
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, LAC
Collin Sexton, CLE
Landry Shamet, LAC
Mitchell Robinson, NYK
Kevin Huerter, ATL

Other notable players to earn votes include Mikal Bridges and Kevin Knox, the two players with the next most votes, as well as Josh Okogie and Miles Bridges who earned first-team votes despite falling short of either team.

For a complete list of the voting breakdown, check out the league’s press release.

The post Luka Doncic, Trae Young Headline 2019 All-Rookie Team appeared first on SLAM.

JJ Redick (30 points) tried to keep the 76ers in the game without Joel Embiid, but Philadelphia fell short in Atlanta. It was another standout performance by Trae Young, who totaled 33 points, 12 assists and seven rebounds.

Pacers 108 (47-32), Pistons 89 (39-39)

Indiana enjoyed scoring from every player that touched the floor as they cruised to a road win. Thaddeus Young led the team with 21 points. Andre Drummond put in 28 points and 19 rebounds for the Pistons.

Knicks 100 (15-63), Magic 114 (39-40)

Orlando pulled away with a 32-point second quarter and never looked back. All-Star Nikola Vucevic put in a team-high 29 points and 13 rebounds, while Terrence Ross added 23 points.

Bulls 115 (22-57), Wizards 114 (32-47)

Walt Lemon Jr. scored a career-high 24 points to help lift the Bulls on the road. It was Lemon’s free throws with 1.8 seconds left that sealed the win for Chicago.

Raptors 115 (56-23), Nets 105 (39-40)

Toronto held off a late comeback attempt by Brooklyn to secure win No. 56 on the season. They were led by the scoring trio of Pascal Siakam (28 points), Kawhi Leonard (26 points) and Serge Ibaka (23 points). D’Angelo Russell scored 27 in the loss.

Celtics 112 (47-32), Heat 102 (38-40)

Gordon Hayward came off the bench to provide a spark, putting in 25 points, eight rebounds and five assists in the road win. Kyrie Irving and Al Horford added 23 and 21 points, respectively.

Hornets 115 (36-42), Pelicans 109 (32-47)

Kemba Walker scored 21 of his 32 points in the fourth quarter to propel the Hornets to a win and keep their playoff hopes alive. Julius Randle scored 34 points in the loss.

Timberwolves 110 (35-43), Mavericks 108 (31-47)

Josh Okogie found Andrew Wiggins for the go-ahead layup to give Minnesota the win. Wiggins finished with 19 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns led the team with 28 points and 13 rebounds. Luka Doncic put in 27 points for the Mavs.

Spurs 85 (45-34), Nuggets 113 (52-26)

Denver coasted to the home win thanks to six double-digit scorers, led by Nikola Jokic’s 20 points in 28 minutes. Jokic also recorded 11 rebounds and nine assists.

Jazz 118 (48-30), Suns 97 (18-61)

Donovan Mitchell and Joe Ingles combined for 56 points including 10-for-15 shooting from deep to lead the Jazz past Phoenix. Devin Booker left the game with a left ankle injury but x-rays came back negative.

Grizzlies 89 (31-47), Blazers 116 (50-28)

Portland was led by Enes Kanter (21 points, 15 rebounds) and Damian Lillard (20 points, 10 assists). The win marked the Blazers’ 50th of the year as they battle for one of the top spots in the Western Conference playoffs.

Rockets 135 (51-28), Clippers 103 (47-32)

Houston was in control from the jump, scoring 39 points in the first quarter and maintaining their lead throughout. James Harden (31 points), Chris Paul (29 points) and Clint Capela (24 points) all contributed to the Rockets’ overwhelming offensive attack.

RELATED: ‘Luka. For Sure’: Ben Simmons Makes Rookie of the Year Pick

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Like we’ve often done, we’ll start off with the League’s premier footwear kings, Montrezl Harrell and P.J. Tucker. Trezz went double-duty with a pair of the Air Jordan VII Retro “Marvin the Martian” and the funky Nike LeBron 11 EXT “King’s Crown.” For Tuck, another one of his March Madness favorites was on his feet, as he donned the classic Nike Air Force Max 93.

Nike Hyperdunks were once again a prominent wear and Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with two custom Hyperdunk X bangers including a Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 themed pair. Justin Jackson used his Hyperdunk X Lows to call attention to World Down Syndrome Day and Kevin Love wore a fresh pair of PEs that tied back to the Cavs’ City uniforms. On the vintage tip, Josh Richardson took it back with the “Puerto Rico” edition of the Hyperdunk ’08.

Plenty of newer looks were also on display as Jayson Tatum came with a new colorway of the Nike Adapt BB, Kyle Kuzma rocked a Lakers’ colorway of the Nike Zoom Kobe 4 Protro, LeBron James went with another PE model of his LeBron 16s and Greg Monroe came with the “Cactus Jack” Air Jordan XXXIII.

With all of Tuesday’s heat rock around the League, make sure you get caught up on all the sneaker action below.

Photos via Getty Images

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

Team World’s Luka Doncic and Ben Simmons will face Team USA’s Donovan Mitchell and De’Aaron Fox. Dirk Nowitzki (World) and Kyrie Irving (USA) will serve as the honorary coaches for the game.

Be sure to check out the full rosters below.

The 2019 Rising Stars teams have been announced.

Thoughts on Team USA and Team World? pic.twitter.com/tc7Tir0614

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 30, 2019

TEAM USA

Donovan Mitchell, Jazz
Jayson Tatum, Celtics
De’Aaron Fox, Kings
Trae Young, Hawks
Jaren Jackson Jr, Grizzlies
Lonzo Ball, Lakers
Kyle Kuzma, Lakers
Jarrett Allen, Nets
Marvin Bagley III, Kings
John Collins, Hawks

TEAM WORLD

Luka Doncic, Mavs
Ben Simmons, Sixers
DeAndre Ayton, Suns
Lauri Markkanen, Bulls
OG Anunoby, Raptors
Bogdan Bogdanovic, Kings
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Clippers
Rodions Kurucs, Nets
Josh Okogie, Wolves
Cedi Osman, Cavs

The post Luka Doncic, Ben Simmons Headline 2019 Rising Stars Rosters 🌟 appeared first on SLAM.

After Saturday’s afternoon win in Detroit, the Sixers came up short Sunday in Brooklyn. Despite Ben Simmons (20 points, 12 rebounds) and Joel Embiid (16 points, 15 rebounds) posting double-doubles, D’Angelo Russell led all scorers with 21 points. Caris LeVert had 18 first-half points and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson chipped in 21 points off the bench, including this left-handed baseline dunk that had no one on the Sixers squad wanting to contest it.

No one was trying to jump with Rondae. (via @BrooklynNets) https://t.co/dgPQdQhKqp

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 5, 2018

Wizards 108 (2-7), Knicks 95 (3-7)

John Wall and Bradley Beal combined for 48 points as the Wiz ended a five-game losing streak. Dwight Howard, who returned to action Friday night, had 10 points in 31 minutes. Enes Kanter was the Knicks’ leading scorer with 18 points.

Magic 117 (3-6), Spurs 110 (6-3)

Four of the Magic’s starters finished in double-digit figures: Aaron Gordon (26 points), D.J. Augustin (18 points), Evan Fournier (16 points) and Nikola Vucevic (13 points). Orlando also got some positive bench contributions from Terrance Ross (17 points) and Mo Bamba (12 points). Bamba also grabbed 11 boards, notching his first career double-double, as the team was on a four-game losing streak. DeMar DeRozan led all scorers with 25 points, but couldn’t rally San Antonio to a win at home.

Suns 102 (2-7), Grizzlies 100 (5-3)

Devin Booker took matters into his own hand down the stretch, sinking a 17-foot jumper with 1.7 seconds on the clock in Phoenix. Booker also scored 14 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter and finished with seven dimes. Trevor Ariza chipped in 16 points.

D. BOOK CALLED GAME (via @NBA) pic.twitter.com/u2tJP6ptGM

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 5, 2018

Trail Blazers 111 (7-3), Timberwolves 81 (4-6)

Aside from getting bodied by rookie Josh Okogie, Jusuf Nurkic finished with 19 points and 12 rebounds 24 hours after Portland lost to the Lakers at home. Nurk wasn’t the only Blazer to post a double-double as Meyers Leonard (15 points, 12 rebounds) finished with one of his own. Damian Lillard finished with 18 points and C.J. McCollum contributed 16, respectively. Karl-Anthony Towns had 23 points, his fourth game with 20 or more points. Derrick Rose, who scored a career-high 50 points earlier this week, earned a DNP-CD, and Jimmy Butler sat out during Sunday’s game.

Raptors 121 (9-1), Lakers 107 (4-6)

There’s always a player that tends to go off against the Lakers and Sunday’s game at STAPLES Center was no different. With no Kawhi Leonard (foot soreness), Serge Ibaka finished with a career-high 34 points (hitting his first 14 shots) as the Raptors had a 31-point lead in the first quarter. Kyle Lowry had 21 points and 15 assists. The Lakers never seemed to get in an offensive groove and their defense was horrendous. Kyle Kuzma was the team’s leading scorer with 24 points and LeBron James scored 18 points.

Serge Ibaka goes 15-17 from the field en route to a career-high 34 PTS in the @Raptors 9th win of the season! #WeTheNorth pic.twitter.com/VNPRIIzfeX

— NBA (@NBA) November 5, 2018

Bucks 144 (8-1), Kings 109 (6-4)

The Greek Freak messed around and had a triple-double (26 points, 15 rebounds, 11 assists) in a rout against the Kings. Aside from his stellar stat line, Giannis put Kosta Koufos on a poster in the second half. A total of eight Bucks players finished in double figures. Kings forward Justin Jackson had 22 points in 25 minutes off the bench.

ANOTHER GIANNIS POSTER. How do you stop this man??? (via @Bucks) pic.twitter.com/CsccZvGIzH

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 4, 2018

The post Post Up: Giannis Antetokoumpo Posts Triple-Double in W Against Kings appeared first on SLAM.

The “Halloween” Nike Kyrie 4 – with its drippy Swoosh – also made an appearance Wednesday night on the feet of rookie Josh Okogie while Lonzo Ball rocked his wildest BBB ZO2.19, the “Madagascar.” Kevon Looney went vintage adidas with a pair of green/purple T-Macs from 2015 and Derrick Rose went vintage D-Rose with a career-high 50 point outburst in his latest signature model.

For a full recap of the best Halloween kicks around the league, make sure to peep all 30+ pics below.

Photos via Getty Images

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

But for NBA teams, however, tonight is the culmination of years of preparation. Scouts, analytics experts, general managers, owners and other front office personnel have gathered in war rooms as commissioner Adam Silver calls the names of the latest inductees into the NBA family.

Through watching countless hours of game film, conducting extensive interviews, and holding a myriad of individual workouts, teams have assembled detailed profiles on each prospect—hoping to select a franchise-altering talent.

Tonight, future 15-year veterans, NBA All-Stars, and perhaps even a couple Hall of Famers, will cross the stage at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. These players will help shape the NBA landscape for years to come.

Let us know which team had the best draft in the comments!

2018 NBA Draft Full Results

1. Suns: DeAndre Ayton (C) – Arizona
2. Kings: Marvin Bagley (F) – Duke
3. Mavs (from Hawks): Luka Doncic (G) – Real Madrid
4. Grizzlies: Jaren Jackson Jr (F/C) – Michigan State
5. Hawks (from Mavs): Trae Young (G) – Oklahoma State
6. Magic: Mo Bamba (C) – Texas
7. Bulls: Wendell Carter (C) – Duke
8. Cavs (from Nets via Celtics): Collin Sexton (G) – Alabama
9. Knicks: Kevin Knox (F) – Kentucky
10. Suns (from Lakers via Sixers): Mikal Bridges (G/F) – Villanova
11. Clippers (via Hornets): Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (G) – Kentucky
12. Hornets (from Pistons via Clippers): Miles Bridges (F) – Michigan State
13. Clippers: Jerome Robinson (G) – Boston College
14. Nuggets: Michael Porter Jr (F) – Missouri
15. Wizards: Troy Brown (G) – Oregon
16. Sixers (from Heat via Suns): Zhaire Smith (G) – Texas Tech
17. Bucks: Donte DiVincenzo (G) – Villanova
18. Spurs: Lonnie Walker (G) – Miami
19. Hawks (from Wolves): Kevin Huerter (G) – Maryland
20. Wolves (from Thunder via Jazz): Josh Okogie (G/F) – Georgia Tech
21. Jazz: Grayson Allen (G) – Duke
22. Bulls (from Pelicans): Chandler Hutchison (G/F) – Boise State
23. Pacers: Aaron Holiday (G) – UCLA
24. Blazers: Anfernee Simons (G) – IMG Academy
25. Lakers (from Cavs via Blazers, Cavs): Moe Wagner (F/C) – Michigan
26. Sixers: Landry Shamet (G) – Wichita State
27. Celtics: Robert Williams (F/C) – Texas A&M
28. Warriors: Jacob Evans (G/F) – Cincinnati
29. Nets: Dzanan Musa (F) – Bosnia and Herzegovina
30. Hawks (from Rockets via Clippers): Omari Spellman (F/C) – Villanova

Second Round

31. Suns: Elie Okobo (G) – France
32. Grizzlies: Jevon Carter (G) – West Virginia
33. Mavs: Jalen Brunson (G) – Villanova
34. Hornets (from Hawks): Devonte Graham (G) – Kansas
35. Magic: Melvin Frazier (G/F) – Tulane
36. Knicks (from Bulls via Thunder): Mitchell Robinson (C)
37. Blazers (from Kings): Gary Trent Jr (G) – Duke
38. Pistons (from Nets via Sixers): Khyri Thomas (G) – Creighton
39. Lakers (from Knicks via Sixers): Isaac Bonga (F) – Germany
40. Nets (from Lakers via Magic, Raptors): Rodions Kurucs (F) – Latvia
41. Nuggets (from Hornets via Magic, Grizzlies, Suns): Jarred Vanderbilt (F) – Kentucky
42. Pistons: Bruce Brown Jr (G) – Miami
43. Nuggets (from Clippers via Knicks): Justin Jackson (F) – Maryland
44. Wizards: Issuf Sanon (G) – Ukraine
45. Nets (from Bucks): Hamidou Diallo (G) – Kentucky
46. Rockets (from Heat via Grizzlies): De’Anthony Melton (G) – USC
47. Lakers (from Nuggets via Jazz, Bulls): Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk (G) – Kansas
48. Wolves: Keita Bates-Diop (F) – Ohio State
49. Spurs: Chimezie Metu (F/C) – USC
50. Pacers: Alize Johnson (F) – Missouri State
51. Pelicans (from Bulls via Pelicans, Heat): Tony Carr (G) – Penn State
52. Rockets (from Jazz): Vince Edwards (F) – Purdue
53. Thunder: Devon Hall (G) – Virginia
54. Sixers (from Blazers via Mavs, Nuggets): Shake Milton (G) – SMU
55. Hornets (from Cavs via Nets, Sixers): Arnoldas Kulboka (F) – Lithuania
56. Mavs (from Sixers): Ray Spalding (F) – Louisville
57. Thunder (from Celtics): Kevin Hervey (F) – Texas Arlington
58. Nuggets (from Warriors): Thomas Welsh (C) – UCLA
59. Suns (from Raptors): George King (F) – Colorado
60. Mavs (from Rockets via Sixers): Kostas Antetokounmpo (F) – Dayton

RELATED:
Report: Sixers Discussed Markelle Fultz Package for Top-Five Pick

The post 2018 NBA Draft Picks: Complete Results 📈 appeared first on SLAM.

As pointed out by Jordan Schultz, Bamba’s time is faster than a handful of NBA All-Star guards that have made a name for themselves off of their quickness: Russell Westbrook (3.08), Dwyane Wade (3.08), James Harden (3.13), John Wall (3.14), Kemba Walker (3.16) and Victor Oladipo (3.25).

Had Bamba run during the NBA Draft Combine, his time would’ve tied with Georgia Tech guard Josh Okogie for the quickest of players to declare for this year’s draft.

Bamba, a 6-11 center with a 7-10 wingspan, averaged 12.9 points, 10.5 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game during his lone season at Texas.

RELATED: Celtics Interested In Mo Bamba, Could Move Up In Draft

The post Report: Mo Bamba Posts Sprint Time Faster Than John Wall, Russell Westbrook ⚡️ appeared first on SLAM.

Notable prospects not attending include DeAndre Ayton and Luka Doncic, who are both vying to be the No. 1 overall pick, as well as Texas A&M center Robert Williams. Doncic is currently playing in the EuroLeague playoffs.

The combine will be held in Chicago from May 16-20.

Here’s the complete list, via Yahoo:

Rawle Alkins

Grayson Allen

Kostas Antetokounmpo

Udoka Azubuike

Marvin Bagley III

Mohamed Bamba

Jaylen Barford

Keita Bates-Diop

Tyus Battle

Brian Bowen II

Mikal Bridges

Miles Bridges

Bruce Brown Jr.

Troy Brown Jr.

Jalen Brunson

Tony Carr

Jevon Carter

Wendell Carter

Hamidou Diallo

Donte DiVincenzo

Trevon Duval

Jacob Evans

Bruno Fernando

Melvin Frazier Jr.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Devonte Graham

Devon Hall

Jaylen Hands

Kevin Hervey

Aaron Holiday

Kevin Huerter

Chandler Hutchison

Jaren Jackson Jr.

Justin Jackson

Alize Johnson

George King

Kevin Knox

Sagaba Konate

Caleb Martin

Cody Martin

Yante Maten

Brandon McCoy

De’Anthony Melton

Chimezie Metu

Shake Milton

Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk

Malik Newman

Josh Okogie

Jontay Porter

Michael Porter Jr.

Billy Preston

Jerome Robinson

Mitchell Robinson

Collin Sexton

Landry Shamet

Anfernee Simons

Zhaire Smith

Omari Spellman

Khyri Thomas

Gary Trent Jr.

Allonzo Trier

Jarred Vanderbilt

Moritz Wagner

Lonnie Walker

PJ Washington

Austin Wiley

Kris Wilkes

Kenrich Williams

Trae Young

RELATED
NBA Exec: Bamba May Have Higher Upside Than Ayton

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