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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Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers (October 24, 2023)

The season’s opening night will feature a 2023 Western Conference Finals rematch as the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets host the Los Angeles Lakers. The Nuggets will receive their championship rings before the game, while the Lakers will try to spoil their celebration and avenge their playoff defeat. The game will also mark the regular-season debut of three-time NBA All-Star Bradley Beal with the Nuggets, who acquired him in a blockbuster trade with the Washington Wizards in the offseason. Beal will join forces with reigning MVP Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray to form a potent offensive trio. The Lakers, meanwhile, will rely on their superstar duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who are both healthy and motivated to reclaim their title.

Phoenix Suns vs. Golden State Warriors (October 24, 2023)

The second game of the opening night doubleheader on TNT will feature another intriguing matchup between two Western Conference contenders as the Phoenix Suns visit the Golden State Warriors. The Suns, who reached the Western Conference Semifinals last season, have added another star to their roster in Chris Paul, who signed with them as a free agent after spending three seasons with the Warriors. Paul will reunite with his former coach, Monty Williams, and join forces with Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton to form a formidable trio. On the other hand, the Warriors will welcome back Klay Thompson, who missed the entire 2022-23 season with a torn Achilles tendon. Thompson will team up with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green to revive their championship aspirations.

Boston Celtics vs New York Knicks (October 25, 2023)

The first game of ESPN’s doubleheader on Wednesday night will feature a classic rivalry between two Eastern Conference teams with impressive playoff runs last season as the Boston Celtics visit the New York Knicks. The Celtics, who reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the third time in four years last season, have a new head coach in Ime Udoka, who replaced Brad Stevens after he moved to the front office. Udoka will try to maximize the potential of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who are both coming off All-Star seasons. The Knicks, who made their first playoff appearance since 2013 last season and advanced to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, have retained most of their core players and added some veterans in free agency. Julius Randle, who won the Most Improved Player award last season, will lead the way for Tom Thibodeau’s squad.

Miami Heat vs. Brooklyn Nets (October 25, 2023)

The second game of ESPN’s doubleheader on Wednesday night will feature a potential preview of the Eastern Conference Finals as the Miami Heat visit the Brooklyn Nets. The Heat, swept by the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the playoffs last season after reaching the NBA Finals in 2020, have retooled their roster with some big moves in the offseason. They acquired Kyle Lowry in a sign-and-trade deal with the Toronto Raptors and signed PJ Tucker and Markieff Morris as free agents. Lowry will join Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo to form a formidable trio that can compete with anyone in the East. The Nets, who lost to the Bucks in a thrilling seven-game series in the Eastern Conference Semifinals last season, have arguably the most talented roster in the league. Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden are healthy and hungry for a championship, while Blake Griffin and LaMarcus Aldridge provide veteran experience and depth.

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Philadelphia 76ers (November 7, 2023)

The first game of TNT’s doubleheader on Tuesday night will feature a clash between two of the top teams in the East, as well as two of the best big men in the league, as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid face off when Milwaukee Bucks visit Philadelphia 76ers. The Bucks are coming off their first NBA title since 1971 after defeating the Phoenix Suns in six games in the NBA Finals last season. Antetokounmpo was named Finals MVP after averaging 35.2 points, 13.2 rebounds, and five assists per game in the series. He is joined by Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday, who both played vital roles in the Bucks’ championship run. The 76ers, who finished with the best record in the East last season but lost to the Atlanta Hawks in seven games in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, have a new head coach in Doc Rivers, who replaced Brett Brown after seven seasons. Rivers will try to get the most out of Embiid, who finished second in MVP voting last season after averaging 28.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He will also try to improve the chemistry between Embiid and Ben Simmons, who has been the subject of trade rumors after struggling in the playoffs.

Los Angeles Clippers vs. Los Angeles Lakers (December 25, 2023)

The marquee matchup of the NBA’s Christmas Day schedule will feature a battle for LA bragging rights as the Clippers and the Lakers face off at Staples Center. The Clippers, who reached the Western Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history last season but lost to the Denver Nuggets in six games, have a new head coach in Tyronn Lue, who replaced Doc Rivers after seven seasons. Lue will try to lead the Clippers to their first NBA title with the help of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, who signed contract extensions with the team in the offseason. However, Leonard is expected to miss most of the season as he recovers from a partially torn ACL he suffered in the playoffs. The Lakers, who won their 17th NBA title in 2020 but were eliminated by the Phoenix Suns in the first round of the playoffs last season, have made significant changes to their roster in the offseason. They traded for Russell Westbrook, who will form a superstar trio with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. They also signed Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, Trevor Ariza, and Wayne Ellington as free agents.

Golden State Warriors vs. Brooklyn Nets (January 18, 2024)

The first game of TNT’s doubleheader on Tuesday night will feature a showdown between two of the most explosive offensive teams in the league and a reunion between former teammates and friends, as Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant face off when Golden State Warriors visit Brooklyn Nets. The Warriors, who missed the playoffs for the second straight season last year after reaching five consecutive NBA Finals from 2015 to 2019, hope to return to contention with a healthy Klay Thompson and a revamped roster. They drafted Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody with their two lottery picks and signed Otto Porter Jr., Nemanja Bjelica, and Andre Iguodala as free agents. The Nets, who fell short of their championship expectations last season after losing to Milwaukee Bucks in a thrilling seven-game series in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, are looking to make another run with a fully healthy roster. Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden are all back and ready to dominate, while Blake Griffin and LaMarcus Aldridge provide veteran experience and depth.

Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns (February 16, 2024)

The second game of TNT’s doubleheader on Tuesday night will feature a rematch of one of the most exciting playoff series last season, as well as a duel between two of the best centers in the league, as Nikola Jokic and Deandre Ayton face off when Denver Nuggets visit Phoenix Suns. The Nuggets, who won their first NBA title last season after defeating the Phoenix Suns in six games in the NBA Finals, are looking to defend their crown with a balanced and deep roster. Jokic, who won his first MVP award last season after averaging 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game, is joined by Bradley Beal, Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, and Will Barton as key contributors. The Suns, who reached their first NBA Finals since 1993 last season but fell short of their first NBA title, are looking to bounce back with a motivated and improved roster. Ayton, who averaged 15.8 points and 11.8 rebounds per game in playoffs last season, is joined by Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Mikal Bridges, Jae Crowder, and Cameron Johnson as core players.

Miami Heat vs. Milwaukee Bucks (March 2, 2024)

The first game of ESPN’s doubleheader on Wednesday night will feature a clash between two top teams in the East that have developed a heated rivalry over the past few seasons, as Jimmy Butler and Giannis Antetokounmpo face off when the Miami Heat visit the Milwaukee Bucks. The Heat, who have retooled their roster with some big moves in the offseason, such as acquiring Kyle Lowry and signing PJ Tucker and Markieff Morris as free agents, are looking to challenge the Bucks for Eastern Conference supremacy. Butler, who averaged 21.5 points, 6.9 rebounds, and seven assists per game last season, is joined by Bam Adebayo, Lowry, Tucker, and Tyler Herro as critical players. The Bucks

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Replacing the 2017-established Player Resting Policy (PRP), these innovative rules are designed with the clear intention of encouraging player involvement in the NBA’s complete 82-game regular season. They are also designed to prevent teams from resting more than one of their key “star” players on any given night, a practice commonly known as load management.

Under the PPP, a star player is defined as an individual who has received All-NBA or All-Star team honors in any of the preceding three seasons. As a result, teams like the Boston Celtics must ensure that at least one of their dynamic duo, comprising players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, is available for every game during the regular season, as long as they are free from injury.

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Ron Holland emerged as a standout player for the Ignite, leading the team with 23 points, four rebounds, and three steals. He displayed impressive efficiency, shooting 9-of-13 from the field. Matas Buzelis also contributed significantly, scoring 16 points and grabbing five rebounds for the Ignite.

On the other side, Jordan Usher led the Perth Wildcats with 22 points, putting up a commendable performance. However, it was the young French prospect, Alex Sarr, who stole the spotlight. The 18-year-old sensation showcased his skills on both ends of the court, finishing the game with 17 points, seven rebounds, and an impressive six blocks.

Alexandre Sarr now has SIX BLOCKS!

This young man is a machine on the defensive end for the @PerthWildcats. pic.twitter.com/vkxKbIKPBK

— NBA G League (@nbagleague) September 7, 2023

If you missed any of the exciting action, The Sporting News had you covered, providing live updates, highlights, and detailed statistics throughout the Wildcats vs. Ignite matchup.

The G League Ignite’s preseason victory sets a promising tone for their upcoming games and provides a glimpse into the talent pool for the 2024 NBA Draft. Stay tuned for more thrilling basketball action as these young prospects continue to make their mark in the world of basketball.

11:04 p.m. — Buzelis’ confidence has gone to another level in the second half. He’s attacking the rim with confidence and pulls off the behind-the-back dribble to the rim for the and-1 play. He follows it up with a block on the other end. He’s got 14 points in the game as the Ignite lead 116-86.

10:58 p.m. — Buzelis buries back-to-back triples to restore the Ignite’s 19-point lead at 101-82.

you heard him! that’s just what Matas Buzelis does

Q4 is underway now! Tune in on the NBA APP!

: https://t.co/gEM4acFg5o pic.twitter.com/eu3DJpXsIN

— NBA G League Ignite (@gleagueignite) September 7, 2023

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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.

The post Jordan Poole: The Next James Harden? appeared first on Sports News.

Serbia’s Basketball Legacy

The Serbian men’s national team has a basketball pedigree that spans generations. They are one of the world’s oldest and most experienced teams and one of the most successful. Ranked at No. 6 globally, Serbia boasts an impressive collection of titles, including two World Cup championships, three EuroBasket titles, and two silver medals at the Olympic Games. Their journey to the finals of the FIBA World Cup for the third time underscores their consistency at the highest level of international competition.

Serbia’s achievement in this tournament is even more remarkable because they did it without some key players. The absence of Nikola Jokic, widely regarded as the best player in the world, along with other key contributors like Milos Teodosic, Aleksej Pokusevski, Vasilije Micic, and Boban Marjanovic, makes their success even more impressive. It highlights the depth and resilience of their basketball program.

The Basketball Passion of Serbia

Serbia’s love for basketball runs deep, tracing its roots back to when they were part of the former Yugoslavia. This region famously won the gold medal at the 1980 Olympics. It secured a runner-up finish in 1988—an event that played a pivotal role in the growth of basketball worldwide, leading to the creation of the legendary Dream Team by the United States four years later.

Serbia is without:

Nikola Jokic
Vasilije Micic
Boban Marjanovic
Nemanja Nedovic
Milos Teodosic
Aleksej Pokusevski
Nikola Kalinic
Vladimir Lucic

They just made the FIBA World Cup Final.

— Dionysis Aravantinos (@AravantinosDA) September 8, 2023

Canada’s Basketball Journey

In contrast, Canada’s relationship with basketball has been more recent. The country lacked a storied history in the NBA and on the international stage for many years. However, in recent decades, Canada has emerged as a basketball powerhouse. The ascent began with the gradual influx of Canadian players into the NBA. The rise of Steve Nash, who won back-to-back MVP awards, and his leadership of the Canadian national team to a seventh-place finish in the 2000 Olympics marked a turning point.

Fast forward 23 years, Canada fielded a team with seven NBA players and a bona fide superstar in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. They navigated a challenging path in the tournament, earning a spot in their first Olympic Games since 2000. The journey was a testament to their growth as a basketball nation.

The Semifinal Reality Check

However, Canada faced a stark reality check in their recent semifinal matchup against Serbia. Serbia dominated the game from start to finish, playing nearly flawlessly for 40 minutes. They shot 62% from the field and 45% from beyond the arc while winning almost every major statistical category.

The game’s result demonstrated that, despite Canada’s remarkable progress in recent years, the weight of history and experience in international basketball can be a formidable opponent. Serbia’s deep-seated passion for the sport and its rich basketball heritage proved to be a significant factor in the semifinal clash.

In conclusion, Canada’s loss to Serbia in the FIBA World Cup semifinals is a poignant reminder of the importance of program history and legacy in international basketball. While Canada continues to make strides globally, they have been reminded that the path to success is often paved with the experience, tradition, and passion that nations like Serbia have cultivated over many decades.

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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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Lillard’s Trade Request and Desire for Miami

Damian Lillard’s desire to part ways with the Portland Trail Blazers has been a focal point of NBA news this offseason. After spending his entire 11-year career in Portland, Lillard clarified that he wanted a change of scenery. In response, he formally requested a trade, and the Trail Blazers stated their willingness to entertain offers from any interested party.

Interestingly, Lillard has expressed a specific preference for his next destination: the Miami Heat. It’s a move that would see him don the colors of South Beach and join forces with an already formidable team. However, as the trade landscape shifts, the Toronto Raptors have entered the conversation as potential contenders for Lillard’s services.

Raptors’ Genuine Interest

According to Marc Stein’s article, the Toronto Raptors have expressed genuine interest in acquiring Damian Lillard. This revelation has sparked intrigue across the NBA landscape, as the Raptors are known for their slick moves and successful history in landing star players.

“The uncertainty at this point stems more from gauging Toronto’a true willingness to push all the way forward with its Lillard pursuit when it’s believed that the all-star guard, behind the scenes, remains so resistant to the idea of becoming a Raptor.”

– via Marc Stein

He… pic.twitter.com/833BkWc2Aj

— . (@GTJGotNext) September 24, 2023

However, the uncertainty in this situation lies in gauging just how committed the Raptors are to pursuing Lillard, given the reports that Lillard himself remains resistant to becoming a Raptor. It’s a complex situation where player desires, team ambitions, and trade negotiations intertwine.

Raptors’ History with Star Acquisitions

The Toronto Raptors have a noteworthy history of making impactful acquisitions. In 2018, they orchestrated a trade to bring in Kawhi Leonard, who played an instrumental role in leading the team to its first NBA Championship in 2019 despite spending only one season in Toronto. This success stands as a testament to the Raptors’ ability to make strategic moves that pay off in the short term.

Potential Trade Package

One of the intriguing aspects of the Raptors’ pursuit of Damian Lillard is their ability to assemble a compelling trade package. With a roster boasting young, high-quality players, the Raptors could offer the Portland Trail Blazers a more enticing deal than the Miami Heat.

The dynamics of NBA trades are ever-evolving, and the ultimate destination of Damian Lillard remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the Toronto Raptors have entered the conversation as a serious contender in pursuing this basketball superstar. As the trade saga unfolds, basketball fans worldwide will be eagerly watching to see where Damian Lillard’s next chapter in the NBA takes him.

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Here’s a look at who should make it onto Team USA’s roster for the 2024 Olympics:

Guards: For this team, having players who can stretch the floor with their shooting when not in possession of the ball is crucial. International play often involves more zone defenses due to the absence of illegal defense rules, emphasizing the importance of the ability to shoot over zones.

1. Stephen Curry: The renowned sharpshooter, Curry, has achieved almost every individual and team accolade in his career, except for an Olympic gold medal. Pairing him with Steve Kerr as the coach could be the recipe for success.
2. Damian Lillard: Lillard is coming off an outstanding offensive season, boasting incredible deep 3-point shooting abilities. Imagining him and Curry taking turns launching long-range bombs is an exciting prospect.
3. Anthony Edwards: Edwards earned his spot through stellar performances at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, showcasing his shot-creation skills and becoming a formidable point-of-attack defender.
4. Devin Booker: An improved defender and elite shot-maker, Booker already has Olympic experience, contributing to Team USA’s gold medal in Tokyo.

Apologies to: Ja Morant, James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Jalen Brunson, Zach LaVine, Tyrese Haliburton, Austin Reaves, Trae Young, De’Aaron Fox, Kyrie Irving, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, Bradley Beal

Forwards: Selecting forwards proved to be challenging, with the omission of players like Jimmy Butler. Shooting remains a premium, and this roster prioritizes proven winners with high basketball IQs.

1. Kevin Durant: Still one of the NBA’s top five players, Durant’s length would be invaluable, addressing size issues that Team USA faced in recent international competitions.
2. LeBron James: At 39, LeBron could be the elder statesman of the team. His leadership and passing could be beneficial, although his acceptance of an invitation remains uncertain.
3. Jayson Tatum: Tatum’s versatility as a two-way player makes him a valuable addition to any setting.
4. Paul George: George’s ability to cover multiple positions and excel in switch-heavy schemes aligns perfectly with Coach Kerr’s strategy. He’s a great two-way player who doesn’t require constant ball handling.

Apologies to: Jimmy Butler, Kawhi Leonard, Zion Williamson, Khris Middleton, DeMar DeRozan, Mikal Bridges, Brandon Ingram

Bigs: While Team USA lacks elite big men like Nikola Jokic, several strong players can serve as defensive anchors.

(Note: Joel Embiid was omitted due to his dual citizenship with France and the unlikelihood of playing.)

1. Anthony Davis: One of the NBA’s premier defenders, Davis can switch on the perimeter and dominate the paint.

1. Draymond Green: If Curry is on the team, Green’s synergy with him is crucial. Green is an exceptional defender and a smart player in his own right.
2. Brook Lopez: Lopez provides the physical presence Team USA often needs against imposing bigs. His rim protection skills make him a valuable asset in international play.
3. Bam Adebayo: Adebayo’s versatility allows him to adapt to various lineups, making him a valuable piece in plugging any potential weaknesses.

These selections would make up a formidable Team USA squad for the 2024 Olympics, aiming to continue their gold medal streak.

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Introduction: The field will soon shrink from 64 to 48 teams, and another 16 will be whittled away before the weekend commences. The sun-up to sun-down schedule is unique in the sports world, and now that your brackets are set — hopefully without too many red marks after the first 16 games — there are other picks that can be made in the first round. Getting some extra skin in the game can certainly put you in the tournament spirit or liven things up even more.

Section 1: The Experts’ Insight Our CBS Sports experts have convened to provide you further insight into Friday’s first-round games with picks straight up and against the spread. Our expert brackets may offer some help, too, especially if you’re considering seed-line upsets. The NCAA Tournament is all about surviving and advancing, but for those plunking down on their couch or pulling up to their desk to consume as much March Madness content as possible — especially over the next four days — which teams cover their spreads will be quite important as well.

Section 2: Expert Picks The CBS Sports college basketball experts have been covering the sport for years and certainly all season since November, and they are not shy with their picks for these games. Let’s take a look at our expert picks as first-round games continue Friday.

Section 3: Game Analysis and Picks

1. FAU vs. Northwestern
   • Analysis: [Brief analysis of the matchup]
   • Picks:
     • Spread: Northwestern +3.5
     • Straight up: Northwestern
2. Clemson vs. New Mexico
   • Analysis: [Brief analysis of the matchup]
   • Picks:
     • Spread: New Mexico -2.5
     • Straight up: New Mexico
3. Florida vs. Colorado
   • Analysis: [Brief analysis of the matchup]
   • Picks:
     • Spread: Colorado +2
     • Straight up: Colorado
4. Nebraska vs. Texas A&M
   • Analysis: [Brief analysis of the matchup]
   • Picks:
     • Spread: Texas A&M +1
     • Straight up: Texas A&M
5. Alabama vs. College of Charleston
   • Analysis: [Brief analysis of the matchup]
   • Picks:
     • Spread: College of Charleston +9
     • Straight up: College of Charleston
6. Utah State vs. TCU
   • Analysis: [Brief analysis of the matchup]
   • Picks:
     • Spread: Utah State +4
     • Straight up: Utah State

Be sure to stick with CBS Sports for the rest of the month as NCAA Tournament coverage continues through the end of the Final Four. With expert analysis and picks like these, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the thrilling madness of March.

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