Drafting for the Future

In the 2023 NBA Draft, the Mavericks picked up defensive talents in Dereck Lively II and Olivier-Maxence Prosper in the first round. These selections clearly indicated their commitment to improving their defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.

A Strategic Sign and Trade

However, the most significant move that sent ripples through the league was the three-team sign-and-trade deal with the Boston Celtics and the San Antonio Spurs. In this deal, the Mavs parted with a first-round pick swap and Reggie Bullock and, in return, acquired two second-round picks and the versatile forward Grant Williams.

Dallas showed their commitment to Williams by promptly signing him to a four-year, $53 million deal. This deal was not only a significant boost to the Mavericks’ defense, but it was also a clear statement of intent for the upcoming season.

Grant Williams: A Key Piece of the Puzzle

Grant Williams is expected to be a game-changer for the Mavericks on both court ends. His versatility and defensive prowess make him an ideal fit for the team’s objectives. He joins the Mavericks with a palpable excitement to hit the court and contribute to their success.

The Mavericks-Suns Rivalry: A Brewing Storm

In recent comments, Grant Williams hinted at the intensity of the rivalry between the Mavericks and the Phoenix Suns, explicitly singling out star player Devin Booker. When asked about his favorite road city to play in, Williams revealed that it was previously Dallas but hinted at a change for the upcoming season. “Now it’s probably going to be Phoenix,” Williams said.

His reasoning? “I just enjoy Phoenix as a city, and it’s going to be fun having that rivalry with Book (Devin Booker) and Luka (Doncic) and being a part of it.”

A Rivalry to Watch

The rivalry between the Dallas Mavericks and the Phoenix Suns has always been a captivating spectacle characterized by thrilling, down-to-the-wire games. The individual rivalry between Luka Doncic and Devin Booker adds an extra layer of intrigue to these matchups.

One of the most memorable moments in recent history was a game that ended with a tense face-off between Doncic and Booker after Luka missed a game-tying shot at the rim. Williams is well aware of the intensity of these matchups and is eager to be part of the action.

Stay Tuned for More

As the 2023 NBA season unfolds, the presence of Grant Williams in a Mavericks uniform promises to bring excitement and energy to the team’s defense. Expecting more thrilling Mavericks-Suns clashes will keep basketball fans on the edge.

Stay tuned for all the latest news and updates on Grant Williams and the Dallas Mavericks. The 2023 season promises to be a thrilling journey filled with rivalries, high-stakes games, and the pursuit of defensive excellence.

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An Eye-Opening Workout

Anthony Edwards, now a star for the Minnesota Timberwolves, recalled his experience working out for the Golden State Warriors during his draft year. Speaking at Timberwolves media day, Edwards revealed that Kerr didn’t mince words during his workout, expressing skepticism about Edwards’ work ethic.

“I thought I was working hard,” Edwards began, “When he came, I was going through drills, and he kept stopping them, like, ‘That’s all you got? That’s all you got?’ And I’m like, ‘Bruh, I’m going as hard as you want me to go. What do you want me to do? I’m sweating like crazy.'”

High Expectations in the Bay Area

Kerr’s critique didn’t stop there. Edwards went on to describe a dinner with Kerr and Bob Myers, the Warriors’ team president at the time. During the meal, Kerr delivered another dose of brutal honesty, emphasizing that if the Warriors had held the first overall pick, Edwards wouldn’t have been their choice.

“He’s like, ‘Man, you’ve got to see Steph, KD, and Klay work out,'” Edwards recounted, “They still were continuously telling me, ‘You didn’t work hard enough. If we had the No. 1 pick, we wouldn’t take you.’ And I was just like, ‘Damn, that’s crazy.'”

Timberwolves’ Top Pick

Ultimately, the Minnesota Timberwolves selected Anthony Edwards with the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, believing in his potential and work ethic. Since joining the Timberwolves, the Atlanta native has made significant strides in his career, averaging 21.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game in the NBA. Last season, he put up a career-high 24.6 points per game, earned an All-Star nod, and helped lead the Timberwolves to the playoffs for the second consecutive year.

A Bright Future in Minnesota

This summer, Edwards and the Timberwolves solidified their commitment to each other by agreeing to a five-year maximum contract extension, potentially worth up to $260 million. The extension ensures that Edwards will remain a cornerstone of the franchise for years to come.

As one of the rising stars in the NBA, Edwards now faces heightened expectations. With his lucrative contract extension and rapidly evolving game, he’s expected to lead the Timberwolves to deeper playoff runs, potentially breaking through the second round.

While the memories of Steve Kerr’s brutally honest workout critique may linger, Edwards has proven that he has the talent and work ethic to thrive in the NBA. The future appears bright for this young star as he continues to make his mark in the league and aims to take the Timberwolves to new heights.

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1. Results from Day 6:

• Group B: Puerto Rico 107-89 China
• Group B: Serbia 115-83 South Sudan
• Group C: USA 110-62 Jordan
• Group C: Greece 83-74 New Zealand
• Group F: Slovenia 92-77 Cape Verde
• Group F: Georgia 70-59 Venezuela
• Group G: Brazil 89-77 Côte d’Ivoire
• Group G: Spain 85-65 Iran

2. Brazil’s Thrilling Victory:

• Brazil faced Côte d’Ivoire in a rollercoaster game.
• Brazil’s starting point guard, Yago Santos, suffered a knee injury, impacting the team’s performance.
• However, Santos made a heroic return, scoring 24 points and delivering 12 assists, securing an 89-77 win.
• Santos’s exceptional performance showcased his potential as the future of Brazilian basketball.

3. USA’s Starting Lineup Change:

• Team USA made a significant change to their starting lineup by replacing Brandon Ingram with Josh Hart.
• This adjustment paid off, with Team USA taking a quick 20-4 lead and finishing the first quarter up 31-12.
• Hart’s contributions as a defender, rebounder, and playmaker were instrumental in the team’s dominant 110-62 victory over Jordan.
• The change aimed to improve the team’s starting performance, and it proved effective.

Nutmeg alert! #FIBAWC x #WinForPuertoRico pic.twitter.com/Mbt1j8Ln38

— FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 (@FIBAWC) August 30, 2023

4. Greece’s Comeback Victory:

• Greece faced New Zealand in a do-or-die battle for a spot in the second round.
• New Zealand had a strong first half, leading 43-32 behind Reuben Te Rangi and Shea Ili’s outstanding performances.
• Greece mounted a comeback, sparked by Thanasis Antetokounmpo’s defensive prowess and 33 points in the fourth quarter.
• Giannoulis Larentzakis and Ioannis Papapetrou led Greece with 47 combined points and seven three-pointers, securing an 83-74 win.

5. Round 2 Preview:

• Classification games are set to begin before the second group stage starts.
• Results from the first group stage will carry over to the second round.
• Top two teams from each group in the second round will advance to the knockout stage in Manila, Philippines.
• Groups for Round 2 include Serbia, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Italy; USA, Lithuania, Montenegro, Greece; Slovenia, Germany, Australia, Georgia; Canada, Spain, Latvia, Brazil.

6. Play of the Day:

• A rare basketball nutmeg occurred in the game between Puerto Rico and China when Tremont Waters passed the ball between the legs of Qi Zhou before setting up a dunk.
• Luka Doncic showcased incredible skills, including a dribble and pump-fake combo and a behind-the-head pass, despite struggling with his shot.

7. Moment of the Day:

The third quarter of the game between Georgia and Venezuela provided moments of humor, as both teams missed back-to-back dunks and an open layup.

8. Quote of the Day:

• USA head coach Steve Kerr explained the lineup change: “We just felt like it was important to have a look at Josh (Hart) with the starting group and Brandon (Ingram) with the next group and see if the combinations fit.”
• Ilias Zouros, head coach of Georgia, expressed pride in his team’s performance: “Today, the country is happy.”
• Tim Soares of Brazil praised Yago Santos: “It’s good to have somebody like that on your team for sure.”

Luka Doncic is box office #FIBAWC x #WinForSlovenia pic.twitter.com/xMBWueQjgi

— FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 (@FIBAWC) August 30, 2023

9. Three Stars of the Day:

• Yago Santos (Brazil): Overcame injury to lead Brazil with 24 points, 12 assists, and remarkable shooting.
• Josh Hart (USA): Made a significant impact in the starting lineup, contributing defensively and on the boards.
• Giannoulis Larentzakis and Ioannis Papapetrou (Greece): Combined for 47 points and seven three-pointers in Greece’s comeback win.

Day 6 of the FIBA World Cup delivered thrilling basketball action, setting the stage for an exciting second round.

Luka steals to dish it behind his back to Ziga! #FIBAWC x #WinForSlovenia pic.twitter.com/ihO7PTc1F2

— FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 (@FIBAWC) August 30, 2023

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In a recent clash between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers, which saw the Mavericks secure a 104-101 victory, the attention wasn’t solely on the game’s outcome. Post-match, LeBron James took a moment to acknowledge the incredible talent of Luka Doncic, emphasizing the Slovenian’s pivotal role in determining his destiny within the NBA landscape.

“Wherever he wants to. It’s up to him,” expressed James, acknowledging Doncic’s capacity to ascend to great heights within the league. The Lakers superstar, known for his insightful basketball perspectives, underscored that Doncic possesses the power to steer his narrative in the NBA, as Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported.

Doncic’s impact in the Mavericks’ victory against the Lakers was undeniable. The Slovenian sensation orchestrated an impressive performance, contributing a game-high 30 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. These stellar statistics are just a fraction of his overall season averages, currently standing at 27.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, and eight assists per game.

Beyond the immediate season, LeBron James envisions Doncic’s influence transcending a single campaign. According to James, Doncic’s star quality extends beyond the court. He firmly believes that the Mavericks’ fortunes, buoyed by Doncic’s prowess, could steer the team into formidable contention during the playoffs.

While Dallas anticipates continued excellence from Doncic, the Mavericks hope his trajectory will guide them to playoff success. Doncic’s impact has already been transformative for the franchise, reshaping its identity and elevating its competitiveness. However, pursuing a deeper playoff run remains a collective aspiration for the Mavericks.

LeBron James is unequivocal in his belief that Doncic possesses the potential to lead Dallas on a significant playoff journey, marking a milestone in what promises to be an illustrious NBA career.

As Luka Doncic’s star continues to rise, the narrative of his legacy in the league appears to be one he’ll script entirely on his terms.

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Hicks is recognized as one of baseball’s premier power pitchers, and when the trade was made, he was a high-value rental reliever. This was based on his performance with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he maintained a 3.67 ERA over 41.2 innings and showcased an impressive strikeout rate of 12.74 K/9.

Upon his arrival in Toronto, it might have been reasonable for the Blue Jays to advise the right-hander to stick with his existing approach. However, it’s evident that Hicks has made significant adjustments in his 15 games with the Blue Jays.

When teams acquire a pitcher from outside the organization, they often have a strategic plan for maximizing the player’s performance. The Blue Jays are no different in this regard. This strategy could involve tweaking mechanics or altering the pitch mix, but in Hicks’ case, it appears that there has been a shift in his overall pitching philosophy.

Since becoming a part of the Blue Jays, the experienced reliever has consistently attacked the strike zone, especially on the first pitch.

The overall results have also been solid from a run suppression perspective as his ERA with the Blue Jays (3.46) is better than his work with the Cardinals.

Despite those upsides, Hicks’ newfound zeal for pounding the zone is coming at a price. The most obvious is a drop in strikeouts.

It might appear counterintuitive that throwing more pitches within the strike zone would result in fewer strikeouts. However, when it comes to the right-hander, opposing hitters have made contact with 81.5 percent of his pitches inside the zone, while only connecting with 49.6 percent of those outside it.

This represents the delicate equilibrium that pitchers continually strive to achieve. Aggressively attacking the strike zone exposes you to a higher risk of hard-hit balls and can limit strikeouts. On the other hand, dancing around the edges can lead to generating weak contact and strikeouts, but it also carries the potential for serious control issues.

Since becoming part of the Blue Jays, it appears that Hicks has leaned toward the former approach. While his overall performance has been commendable, there are certain warning signs worth noting.

Peripheral metrics such as FIP and xFIP favor his performance with the Cardinals significantly more than what he has shown in Toronto, primarily due to the significant decrease in strikeouts.

There’s no need for alarm here. Jordan Hicks remains an exceptionally skilled pitcher, and his 15-game tenure with the Blue Jays is a relatively small sample size.

However, it’s evident that his pitching strategy has undergone a transformation since joining Toronto. While he has effectively prevented runs from crossing the plate, his performance now relies on a somewhat less stable foundation compared to his time in St. Louis.

When the Blue Jays acquired Hicks, he wasn’t a player requiring a complete overhaul. To recapture the dynamic high-leverage pitching he exhibited with the Cardinals, he may need to lean closer to the approach that allowed him to consistently rack up strikeouts in St. Louis, even if it means issuing an extra walk or two.

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From Courtside to Boardroom

Magic Johnson’s basketball career is the stuff of legend. He played 13 seasons in the NBA, donning the iconic purple and gold of the Los Angeles Lakers and securing five NBA championships. Johnson’s on-court artistry earned him accolades and admiration, but it’s his post-basketball career where he truly made his mark as a financial titan.

Forbes Confirms Billionaire Status

According to Forbes, Magic Johnson has now entered the exclusive billionaire club. His substantial fortune is primarily derived from owning the life insurance company EquiTrust. However, his financial portfolio is as diversified as his playing style. Johnson has invested in major companies like Starbucks, Burger King, and 24 Hour Fitness, bolstering his wealth.

Beyond the Hardwood

But Johnson’s business acumen extends far beyond these investments. He holds ownership stakes in three Los Angeles sports franchises, including Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers, the Women’s National Basketball Association’s Los Angeles Sparks, and Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC. Additionally, he has a role with the Washington Commanders in the NFL. These sports connections have not only expanded his influence but also enriched his financial standing.

In the Billionaire Club

Magic Johnson’s journey to billionaire status is a testament to his vision and determination. In 1990, he set a financial goal for himself, aiming to reach the “$100 to $200 million” range. Little did he know that he would far surpass his expectations. Johnson now shares the billionaire basketball player status with iconic figures such as Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Golf legend Tiger Woods is also a member of this exclusive club.

Reflecting on Missed Opportunities

Magic Johnson’s ascent to billionaire status has not been without its what-ifs. In a candid revelation, he regretted passing on an opportunity to invest in Nike during the 1970s. At the time, his family’s modest background influenced his decision, as he explained on the All The Smoke podcast. He said, “My family didn’t come from money; that’s one thing that hurt us sometimes. When you don’t come from money, you don’t know. I didn’t even know what stocks [were] at that time. So, I passed on the stocks. Can you imagine? Forty-five years, $5 billion that stock would have been worth today.”

Magic Johnson’s journey from a young boy with a basketball dream to a billionaire mogul is a testament to his relentless work ethic, foresight, and unwavering commitment to success. His story is not just one of sporting greatness but also a lesson in how strategic investments can propel a career to unparalleled heights.

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Mikal Bridges led the charge with an impressive performance, contributing 24 points, with 14 coming in the first half. Tyrese Haliburton added 18 points to the American tally. However, the suffocating defense of the U.S. team stole the show, shutting down Italy for extended stretches during the game.

This victory marks the 15th time the United States has finished in the top four of the FIBA World Cup out of 19 appearances. Their overall record in the tournament now stands at 5-1. The U.S. will advance to the semifinals, where they await the winner of the quarterfinal clash between Germany (5-0) and Latvia (4-1). The outcome of that match, scheduled for Wednesday in Manila, will determine the U.S. team’s next opponent on Friday.

The American team was dominant, establishing a commanding 46-24 lead by halftime. Austin Reaves put an exclamation point on the first half with a thunderous follow-slam that had his teammates on their feet. Anthony Edwards, the team’s leading scorer entering the game, didn’t even make it onto the scoresheet until the first possession of the third quarter. Despite this, the U.S. didn’t require Edwards’ heroics, as their exceptional defense stifled Italy’s offensive efforts.

The U.S. defense, which had struggled in their previous game against Lithuania, conceding 110 points in a narrow loss, came to life against Italy. They limited Italy to a dismal 6-of-31 shooting during the final 15 minutes of the first half. In stark contrast to Lithuania’s hot three-point shooting performance (9 for 9) in their game against the U.S., Italy struggled mightily from beyond the arc, starting the game with a 2-for-21 record.

Simone Fontecchio was the lone standout for Italy, contributing 18 points to their total.

Four years ago, during the World Cup in China, it was the quarterfinals where the U.S. journey unraveled. A defeat against France in the quarterfinals dashed their hopes of medaling. It led to a disappointing seventh-place finish, marking the worst performance by a U.S. team in a prominent men’s international event.

However, this time around, history will not repeat itself. The United States secured a spot in the medal round with this quarterfinal victory. A win in the upcoming semifinal would guarantee at least a silver medal, and if they can clinch victories in both the semifinal and the final, the U.S. team will be heading home with the gold.

Italy had only beaten the United States twice in 14 previous encounters at the senior men’s national level. These victories occurred during the world championships, now known as the FIBA World Cup, in 1970 and 1978. The Italians briefly kept pace with the U.S. in the game’s early minutes. Still, the Americans soon surged ahead, thanks to their second solid unit, which has consistently performed well throughout the tournament.

With the countdown to Friday’s semifinal now underway, the United States is poised for redemption and the opportunity to reclaim international basketball glory.

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A recent viral video from Kevin Garnett’s podcast, KG Certified, stirred the basketball community as Garnett drew a striking comparison. He likened Jordan Poole’s situation with the Wizards to James Harden’s transition from the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Houston Rockets, saying, “Jordan Poole is the new James Harden.”

Garnett’s comparison might raise a few eyebrows, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. The parallel between the two players lies in the idea that they both felt held back before emerging as elite scorers on their respective teams.

In Harden’s time with the Thunder, he played alongside superstars like Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant, who demanded significant ball-handling responsibilities. This limited Harden’s ability to showcase his full talents. During his tenure in Oklahoma City, Harden started in just seven of the 220 games he played and averaged a modest 12 points per game.

However, everything changed when he was traded to the Rockets in 2012. Freed from the constraints of playing behind Durant and Westbrook, Harden quickly blossomed into one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, averaging an impressive 29 points per game. While he faced criticism for not winning an NBA championship, he undoubtedly demonstrated his scoring prowess.

A similar storyline applies to Jordan Poole. He couldn’t fully tap into his potential during his time with the Golden State Warriors. Despite averaging 15 points per game, he often came off the bench behind stars Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. Last season, Poole had a breakthrough year, averaging a career-high 20 points per game. Notably, when Curry was sidelined with a thumb injury, Poole stepped up, averaging 27 points in Curry’s absence.

The timing of the Wizards’ acquisition of Poole appears impeccable. Last season, the Wizards struggled offensively, ranking 21st in points per game. The team desperately needed a primary scorer with Bradley Beal’s departure to the Phoenix Suns. Jordan Poole has demonstrated his ability to score in various ways, both in the paint and beyond the arc. Entering his fifth year in the league, there’s ample room for further improvement.

If Poole continues on this trajectory and refines his scoring skills, he could become the next elite scorer in the NBA. While the James Harden comparison may initially sound audacious, it serves as a reminder that young talents, when provided with the right opportunities and freedom, can transform into the league’s premier stars. Jordan Poole’s potential may shine in the 2023-24 NBA season.

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Ingram’s journey in the league has been filled with ups and downs. His scoring ability is unquestionable, as evidenced by his scoring output last season, including a solid 39% shooting from beyond the arc. However, injuries have occasionally disrupted his playing time, and some voices in New Orleans have expressed frustration with his willingness to return to action while nursing injuries.

Currently entering the fourth year of a five-year, $158.3 million contract, Ingram is technically eligible for a contract extension, offering up to three more years and $147 million. However, both Ingram and the Pelicans have postponed contract negotiations until next summer, as reported by Christian Clark in the Times-Picayune.

This decision makes sense for various reasons. First, waiting until next summer potentially allows Ingram to secure a more substantial and lucrative extension. If all goes well, he could ink a four-year deal worth approximately $221 million. Of course, the possibility of an even more lucrative supermax contract, accounting for 35% of the salary cap, would become a reality if Ingram made an All-NBA team. However, achieving such a feat would require a significant uptick in performance and durability, as the last time Ingram managed to play 65 games in a season was during his rookie year.

The Pelicans, on the other hand, have their reasons for wanting to delay negotiations. Despite having a promising roster, injuries have plagued their key players, including Brandon Ingram. The team’s potential to make a deep postseason run is hampered by the inconsistent availability of their star talents. Moreover, the emergence of Trey Murphy III, a young player who plays a similar wing position to Ingram, further complicates the situation. Murphy brings a more substantial defensive presence and an improving scoring ability, raising questions about the future of the team’s wing position.

Ingram’s standing has also been somewhat affected by his performance during the summer with Team USA. While initially tapped to be a leading scorer from the wing, he faced challenges adapting to Coach Steve Kerr’s system, struggled with isolation scoring, and experienced difficulties in defensive and rebounding aspects. Eventually, he was moved to the bench and replaced by Josh Hart during the World Cup.

All these factors have led to a mutual decision by Brandon Ingram and the Pelicans to defer contract extension discussions until next summer. Ingram’s undeniable scoring abilities may be his calling card, but how much the Pelicans are willing to invest in him remains unanswered. The patient approach allows both parties to evaluate their future options and make informed decisions, ultimately benefiting both the player and the team.

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