FIBA's Central Board meeting looks ahead to eventful year

MARCH 26, 2021

MIES (Switzerland) - FIBA's Central Board convened by video conference today for their first meeting of 2021. The following key topics were discussed during the meeting:

Successful FIBA Continental Cup Qualifiers
The Central Board received a comprehensive report on the impressive operational efforts from the FIBA Continental Cup Qualifiers recently played in February, with national team basketball taking place on all five continents, across 14 different cities, despite the ongoing pandemic. A concerted effort by FIBA's Headquarters as well as Regional Offices in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania demonstrated once again FIBA's capacity to organize operations safely on such a large scale during difficult times. The vast majority of all initially scheduled qualification games have been played in the meantime and, two continents, Europe and the Americas managed to have all teams qualified for the FIBA EuroBasket 2022 and the FIBA AmeriCup 2022. The few remaining games to qualify teams for the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 will be played between June 4 and 20 and for the FIBA AfroBasket 2021 between June 15 and July 5, 2021.

Updates on FIBA Competitions for 2021-2023 and the Olympic Games
Status reports were presented on preparations for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments tipping off June 29 in Canada, Croatia, Lithuania and Serbia, and the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in July. Updates were also provided on the FIBA Continental Cups taking place in 2021 and 2022, along with the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cups tipping off during the summer in Riga and Daugavpils, Latvia for the men and Debrecen, Hungary for the women. After receiving a report by the Medical Commission on the preparation of the new COVID-19 Protocol for FIBA Competitions, in cooperation with the NBA and the WHO, the Central Board underlined the importance of vaccination of participants in basketball events.

3x3 Basketball
An update of the 3x3 season was given to the Central Board, with the first stop of the World Tour currently being played in Doha, Qatar, from March 26 to 27, pictured above. The FIBA 3x3 Olympic Qualifying Tournament was recently confirmed and will take place from May 26-30, 2021, in Austria, along with the FIBA 3x3 Universality Olympic Qualifying Tournament being played from June 4-6, 2021, in Hungary.

FIBA U15 Skills Challenge 2021
Due to the success of the first edition of the FIBA U17 Skills Challenges 2020, the Central Board received a report on the preparations for the upcoming FIBA U15 Skills Challenges 2021. The format for the FIBA U15 Skills Challenges will consist of 32 participating teams per gender, with qualification open to all 213 National Federation members through Continental Qualifiers. These Qualifiers will take place during late April and early May in Africa, Americas, Asia/Oceania and Europe, with the FIBA U15 Skills Challenge 2021 set to take place in October.

Adopted provisions to Internal Regulations
The Central Board adopted new provisions on young players to better protect minors as well as the National Federations and clubs that identify and develop talents. The link between young players and the National Federation that developed them will now be stronger, as the players will be restricted from playing for the national team of the country to which they transfer until the age of 23. Similarly, FIBA's right to intervene in case of compensation for young player transfers will now be reinforced, so as to protect the rights of clubs who develop players.

After 15 years of implementation of the Agent Regulations and following review by the Legal Commission, the Central Board approved certain modifications which are designed to empower the players in selecting representation as well as address situations of conflicts of interest. Amendments to the Agent Regulations will enter into force as of January 1, 2022.

National Federations
Mexico's suspension is still maintained as the National Federation, despite progress made in recent weeks, has still not complied with the requirements set by the Executive Committee.

Other matters
The Central Board received updates on the three strategic priorities for the 2019-2023 cycle: Empower National Federations, Women in Basketball and Enlarge FIBA Family, as well as from the Players' Commission and the FIBA Foundation. Also, the Board approved the audited consolidated financial statements for 2020.

Everything you need to know before the
FIBA 3x3 World Tour Doha Masters

March 25, 2021

DOHA (Qatar) - The FIBA 3x3 World Tour is back, and there's plenty to be excited about. We will once again be bringing you the best players in the world, wherever you are, across social media and television. Let's take a closer look at everything you need to know ahead of this weekend's action.

Where can I watch the Doha Masters?

Make sure you are following us on Twitter and Instagram for live updates in addition to Facebook and YouTube where we will be broadcasting live on both channels. Something new and very exciting this year: we will also be live on Twitch! We're also on TV all around the world. Check out our list of broadcasters.

Who is competing in Doha?

A total of 14 teams: Liman, Riga, Ub, NY Harlem, Princeton, Novi Sad, Amsterdam Talent&Pro, Piran, Sakiai Gulbele, Edmonton, Lusail, Graz, Doha, Manila Chooks TM.

Note: following the success of 2020, all the health and safety measures requested by local and national authorities and the Guidelines for the Return to Basketball, developed by the FIBA Medical Advisory Group (MAG) will once again be implemented. Sadly no fans will be allowed in the venue but 3x3 enthusiasts worldwide were given a chance to be at the event with an innovative virtual fan experience.

What are the pools?

Who are the favorites?

Will we see a Doha three-peat for Riga? The Latvians are sure favorites, looking for their third straight World Tour win in Doha, following successful campaigns in 2019 and 2020. With the return of their entire squad, including World Tour 2020 MVP Nauris Miezis, it’s hard to look at this team and see anything but the definite frontrunners.

There’s also an outside chance we see Ub win their first Masters title, with the additions of Dejan Majstorovic and Marko Savic. The former Novi Sad duo bring a winning pedigree and tremendous talent to the court, making the Serbian immediate contenders.

Don’t overlook the American teams in the field, including NY Harlem and Princeton, two former World Tour winners, coming to Doha with a renewed purpose and a chip on their shoulder. Expect to see both squads flying high (we see you Marcel Esonwune and Zahir Carrington).

Finally, we have the Liman and Novi Sad, two Serbian teams that have a lot of questions to answer coming into the event, but have a good enough track record to be amongst the elite. Liman, the number one seed, will be without ‘Mr. Robot’ Stefan Stojacic and Dusan Bulut will have to take his game back to MVP levels in order to get the new-look Novi Sad back into the winner’s circle.

Who are the players to watch?

With Stefan Stojacic out with an injury, it’s up to Stefan Kojic (Liman), the number three ranked player in the world to come up big once again. He starred at the Europe Masters 2020, leading all scorers and winning MVP. The man will have a green light all tournament long and ready to lead Liman in 2021 after a great 2020 campaign.

There’s arguably no player you rather give the ball to with second remaining and a big shot to hit, than Nauris Miezis (Riga). The World Tour 2020 MVP might be nicknamed ‘Robin’, but he’s no sidekick. He strikes fear into his opponents and has us all wondering just how great Riga can be this year.

We’ll also be following former Novi Sad teammates, Dejan Majstorovic (Ub) and Dusan Bulut (Novi Sad) closely, each hoping to show that they are positioned to win in Doha and beyond. The ‘Maestro’ has shown that he can win big without Bulut, but it will be interesting to see if Novi Sad were greater than the sum of their parts or if Bulut can lead the powerhouse back to the top of the pack. This Doha Masters is slated to be full of more twists than a Christopher Nolan movie.

###

Exciting, urban and innovative, 3x3 is inspired by several forms of streetball played worldwide and is considered the world’s number one urban team sport. Steered by FIBA, games see two teams of three players face off on a basketball half-court.

It was played successfully for the first time in international competition at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore and since then has benefited from the launch of a yearly city-based FIBA 3x3 World Tour and national-team FIBA 3x3 World & Continental Cups.

On 9 June 2017, 3x3 was added to the Olympic Program, starting from the Tokyo Games.

Wilson is the Global Ball and Apparel Partner and Tissot the Official Timekeeper of FIBA 3x3.

FIBA 3x3 events are played on Enlio floors with Wilson balls, Schelde backstops, and the Magic Sky canopy system.

For further information about 3x3, visit fiba3x3.basketball, FIBA 3x3 accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Sina Weibo, Tencent, TikTok, Twitter, Youku and YouTube or contact 3x3@fiba.basketball.

FIBA's Central Board meeting looks ahead to eventful year

MARCH 26, 2021

NBA AND NBPA ANNOUNCE COVID-19 TEST RESULTS

NEW YORK, March 24, 2021 – Of the 485 players tested for COVID-19 since March 17, one new player has returned a confirmed positive test.

Anyone who has returned a confirmed positive test, or has been identified as having been in close contact to an infected person, is isolated or quarantined until they are cleared under the rules established by the NBA and the Players Association in accordance with CDC guidance.

NEW YORK’S RANDLE FINED

NEW YORK, March 23, 2021 – New York Knicks forward Julius Randle has been fined $15,000 for directing inappropriate language toward a game official and public criticism of the officiating, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.

The on-court incident occurred at the conclusion of the Knicks’ 101-100 overtime loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on March 21 at Madison Square Garden. Randle made his public comments on the officiating during his postgame media session.

NBA COMMISSIONER ADAM SILVER’S STATEMENT REGARDING THE PASSING OF ELGIN BAYLOR

NEW YORK, March 22, 2021 – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Elgin Baylor:

“Elgin Baylor set the course for the modern NBA as one of the league’s first superstar players. An 11-time All-Star during his Hall of Fame career with the Lakers, Elgin produced remarkable results with his athleticism and groundbreaking style of play, including setting an NBA Finals record with 61 points in Game 5 of the 1962 championship series – a performance made all the more extraordinary by the fact that he had spent part of that season away from his team while on active duty in the Army.

“In addition to his legendary playing career, Elgin was a man of principle. He was a leading activist during the height of the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s and an influential voice among his fellow players. After his retirement, Elgin remained a part of the NBA family as both a coach and an executive, imparting his wisdom to generations of NBA talent. Elgin will be deeply missed, and we send our thoughts and prayers to his wife, Elaine, his family and friends.”

LA CLIPPERS’ GEORGE FINED

NEW YORK, March 19, 2021 – LA Clippers’ forward Paul George has been fined $35,000 for public criticism of the officiating, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.

George made his comments to the media following the Clippers’ 105-89 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on March 17 at American Airlines Center.

TORONTO’S NURSE FINED

NEW YORK, March 21, 2021 – Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse has been fined $50,000 for throwing his facemask behind the scorer’s table and toward the spectator stands, and for directing profanity toward game officials before exiting the playing court, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.

The incident occurred at the conclusion of the Raptors’ 115-112 loss to the Utah Jazz on March 19 at Amalie Arena.

DELAWARE BLUE COATS’ PAUL REED NAMED 2020-21 NBA G LEAGUE

MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AND ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

– Reed Becomes Third Player to Win Both Awards in Same Season –

NEW YORK, March 22, 2021 – Delaware Blue Coats forward Paul Reed has been named the 2020-21 NBA G League Most Valuable Player and NBA G League Rookie of the Year, the NBA G League announced today. He becomes the third player to win both awards in the same season, joining Tim Frazier (2014-15) and Devin Brown (2002-03).

A two-way player with the Philadelphia 76ers, Reed (6-9, 210, DePaul) averaged 22.3 points, 11.8 rebounds, 1.93 steals and 1.80 blocks while shooting 58.8% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range in 15 regular-season games with the Blue Coats. Among qualified players, Reed ranked third in the NBA G League in scoring and rebounding and tied for third in steals. He also recorded a league-high 12 double-doubles.

Among rookies, Reed was the league leader in rebounds per game and offensive rebounds per game (4.6), and he ranked second in scoring, tied for second in steals and seventh in blocks. Reed equaled a rookie season high with 35 points in Delaware’s 129-114 loss to the Oklahoma City Blue on Feb. 27, a total matched only by Raptors 905 guard Malachi Flynn.

Reed led the Blue Coats to a franchise-best seven-game winning streak to start the season, a stretch in which he averaged 22.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, 2.29 steals and 1.43 blocks. He was named the NBA G League Player of the Week for Week 1 of the season.

Behind Reed, Delaware posted a 10-5 record in the regular season and earned the fourth seed in the 2021 NBA G League Playoffs. The Blue Coats won two playoff games before losing to the Lakeland Magic 97-78 in the NBA G League Final presented by YouTube TV on March 11.

The 76ers selected Reed with the 58^th overall pick in the NBA Draft 2020 presented by State Farm. Reed, who signed a two-way contract with Philadelphia on Nov. 27, 2020, has appeared in seven games for the 76ers this season.

NBA G League head coaches and general managers whose teams participated in single-site play at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla., voted for both the MVP and Rookie of the Year awards.

Rio Grande Valley Vipers guard Kevin Porter Jr., who was on assignment from the Houston Rockets, finished in second place in voting for NBA G League MVP. Raptors 905 forward Henry Ellenson finished third.

In NBA G League Rookie of the Year voting, Lakeland forward Mamadi Diakite and Canton Charge guard Brodric Thomas finished in second and third place, respectively.

NBA G League Most Valuable Players

2020-21: Paul Reed (Delaware Blue Coats)

2019-20: Frank Mason III (Wisconsin Herd)

2018-19: Chris Boucher (Raptors 905)

2017-18: Lorenzo Brown (Raptors 905)

2016-17: Vander Blue (Los Angeles D-Fenders)

2015-16: Jarnell Stokes (Sioux Falls Skyforce)

2014-15: Tim Frazier (Maine Red Claws)

2013-14: Ron Howard (Fort Wayne Mad Ants)

Othyus Jeffers (Iowa Energy)

2012-13: Andrew Goudelock (Rio Grande Valley Vipers)

2011-12: Justin Dentmon (Austin Toros)

2010-11: Curtis Stinson (Iowa Energy)

2009-10: Mike Harris (Rio Grande Valley Vipers)

2008-09: Courtney Sims (Iowa Energy)

2007-08: Kasib Powell (Sioux Falls Skyforce)

2006-07: Randy Livingston (Idaho Stampede)

2005-06: Marcus Fizer (Austin Toros)

2004-05: Matt Carroll (Roanoke Dazzle)

2003-04: Tierre Brown (Charleston Lowgators)

2002-03: Devin Brown (Fayetteville Patriots)

2001-02: Ansu Sesay (Greenville Groove)

NBA G League Rookie of the Year Winners

2020-21: Paul Reed (Delaware Blue Coats)

2019-20: Tremont Waters, Maine Red Claws

2018-19: Angel Delgado, Aqua Caliente Clippers

2017-18: Antonio Blakeney, Windy City Bulls

2016-17: Abdel Nader, Maine Red Claws

2015-16: Quinn Cook, Canton Charge

2014-15: Tim Frazier, Maine Red Claws

2013-14: Robert Covington, Rio Grande Valley Vipers

2012-13: Tony Mitchell, Fort Wayne Mad Ants

2011-12: Edwin Ubiles, Dakota Wizards

2010-11: DeShawn Sims, Maine Red Claws

2009-10: Alonzo Gee, Austin Toros

2008-09: Othyus Jeffers, Iowa Energy

2007-08: Blake Ahearn, Dakota Wizards

2006-07: Louis Amundson, Colorado 14ers

2005-06: Will Bynum, Roanoke Dazzle

2004-05: James Thomas, Roanoke Dazzle

2003-04: Desmond Penigar, Asheville Altitude

2002-03: Devin Brown, Fayetteville Patriots

2001-02: Fred House, Charleston Lowgators

Please be advised of the following update to the 2020-21 NBA Schedule:

Thursday, April 8, 2021

The Chicago at Toronto game, previously scheduled for February 28, will be scheduled for 7:30 PM ET.

Friday, April 9, 2021

The Chicago at Atlanta game will change game time to 8:00 PM ET.

Saturday, April 10, 2021

The Toronto at Cleveland game, previously scheduled for April 9, will be scheduled for 7:30 PM ET.

Sunday, April 11, 2021

The Toronto at New York game will change game time to 8:00 PM ET, and will no longer be televised by NBA TV.

Participating teams confirmed for FIBA U19 Basketball World Cups 2021

MARCH 10, 2021

MIES (Switzerland) - The teams participating at the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup 2021 in Latvia and the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2021 in Hungary have been confirmed.

Featuring 16 national teams each, the 2021 U19 World Cups will see a total of 22 different National Federations represented this summer between them.

Qualification for both events was impacted by the suspension of FIBA competitions last year, with only African teams booking their spots directly via continental championships.

Mali and Senegal qualified for the men's competition at the FIBA U18 African Championship 2020, while Egypt and Mali secured qualification for the women's tournament as the top teams at the FIBA U18 Women's African Championship 2020, with both events held in December 2020.

Continental youth championships did not take place in other regions last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the FIBA World Rankings, presented by Nike for Youth Men and Youth Women were used to determine the other teams qualified for the respective FIBA U19 Basketball World Cups.

Scheduled to take place from July 3-11, 2021, the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup will be organized in the Latvian cities of Riga and Daugavpils, while Debrecen, Hungary will host the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup from August 7-15, 2021.

The dates of the draws for both competitions will be confirmed at a later stage.

FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup 2021

Location: Daugavpils and Riga, Latvia
Dates: July 3-11, 2021

Africa: Mali; Senegal
Americas: USA; Canada; Argentina; Puerto Rico
Asia/Oceania: Australia; China; Korea; Japan
Europe: Spain; France; Lithuania; Turkey; Serbia; Latvia (host)

FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2021

Location: Debrecen, Hungary
Dates: August 7-15, 2021

Africa: Egypt; Mali
Americas: USA; Canada; Brazil; Argentina
Asia/Oceania: Australia; China; Japan; Korea
Europe: Spain; France; Italy; Russia; Czech Republic; Hungary (host)

NBA ANNOUNCES UPDATES TO 2020-21 GAME SCHEDULE

NEW YORK, March 17, 2021 – The National Basketball Association today announced two updates to its game schedule for the 2020-21 season:

· The Chicago Bulls at Toronto Raptors game originally scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 28 will be played on Thursday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

· The Toronto at Cleveland Cavaliers game originally scheduled for Friday, April 9 will be played on Saturday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

NBA AND NBPA ANNOUNCE COVID-19 TEST RESULTS

NEW YORK, March 17, 2021 – Of the 490 players tested for COVID-19 since March 10, three new players have returned confirmed positive tests.

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NBA ANNOUNCES CONCLUSION OF

ELIJAH MILLSAP INVESTIGATION

NEW YORK AND SALT LAKE CITY, March 15, 2021 – The National Basketball Association announced today the results of a joint investigation with independent, outside counsel to the Utah Jazz into an allegation made by former Jazz player Elijah Millsap on February 24, 2021 that team Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Dennis Lindsey made an inappropriate statement six years ago during Millsap’s April 2015 exit interview.

The investigation was unable to establish that the alleged statement was made.

As part of the investigative process, all participants involved in the 2015 meeting were interviewed and given the opportunity to provide any relevant evidence, including both Millsap and Lindsey. The investigation also involved other parties who might have been in a position to corroborate the allegation, and the review of meeting notes of the exit interview and other pertinent information.

WNBA x Wilson Lockup (002)

WILSON UNVEILS NEW OFFICIAL GAME BALL

AHEAD OF WNBA’S 25^th SEASON

– Three-Time WNBA All-Star Liz Cambage Becomes First Wilson Advisory Staff Member from the WNBA –

CHICAGO, March 15, 2021 – Wilson Sporting Goods Co., in partnership with the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), today unveiled the league’s new official game ball before the start of the milestone 25^th WNBA season.

“We are thrilled to be tipping off our partnership with the WNBA in advance of a historic 25^th milestone season,” said Amanda Lamb, Global Marketing Director, Team Sports at Wilson. “Introducing the Evo NXT to the pinnacle of the women’s game, and announcing our first WNBA Advisory Staff member, all in the midst of Women’s History Month, is truly a momentous occasion for Wilson.”

Made of 100% composite leather, the official WNBA game ball integrates Wilson’s Evo NXT construction featuring an enhanced grip and a soft moisture-minimalizing feel.

“As we head into our 25^th season with more momentum and energy than ever, we are excited to be partnering with Wilson on our new official game ball,” said Cathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner. “We’re grateful for Wilson’s partnership and commitment to women’s basketball, and the updated white and fire orange look signifies a new chapter for the WNBA brand and our game.”

To coincide with the game ball reveal, Wilson is also introducing its first WNBA Advisory Staff member, three-time WNBA All-Star Liz Cambage. As an official Wilson Advisory Staff member, the Australian center for the Las Vegas Aces will playtest, provide feedback and collaborate on Wilson basketball products.

“I’m so excited to be the first WNBA player on Wilson’s Advisory Staff,” said Cambage. “It’s beyond important for women like me to have a seat at the table to influence creative ideas and provide performance insights.”

Cambage joins renowned skills coach Chris Brickley and FIBA 3x3 star Du¹an Bulut on a growing Wilson Basketball Advisory Staff team. Comprised of more than 10,000 professional athletes, coaches, teaching pros and advisors, Wilson’s Advisory Staff program was established nearly 90 years ago, representing a wide variety of sports around the world.

The Wilson WNBA game ball will be available exclusively on wilson.com beginning May 3, and through select retailers, including WNBAStore.com, on May 17. Following the start of the 2021 WNBA season, Wilson will also reveal first-of-its-kind collaborations with the WNBA, including three launches throughout the year featuring designs from artists and collaborators ranging from Cambage to tastemaker Beija Velez and more.

Wilson’s partnership milestones with the National Basketball Association (NBA) will continue to roll out throughout 2021 with announcements and activations across the WNBA, NBA G League, NBA 2K League and Basketball Africa League, and into the NBA’s 75^th anniversary season in 2021-22.

2021 NBA 2K League Draft No. 1 Overall Pick Arshia “Krazy” Karimi (Credit: NBA 2K League)

LAKERS GAMING SELECTS ARSHIA “KRAZY” KARIMI WITH NO. 1 OVERALL PICK IN 2021 NBA 2K LEAGUE DRAFT

- Alaina “DjLayyy” Haney (Celtics Crossover Gaming) and Ziah “ziah” Minor (Mavs Gaming) Become Second and Third Women to be Drafted into the NBA 2K League -

- Five International Players Selected, Including First-Ever

NBA 2K League Players from Australia and Spain -

NEW YORK, March 14, 2021 – The 2021 NBA 2K League Draft was held virtually last night and livestreamed on the NBA 2K League’s Twitch and YouTube channels. During the four-round draft, the 23 NBA 2K League teams selected 63 players to complete their six-person rosters ahead of the league’s fourth season, which will tip off this spring.

With the No. 1 overall pick, Lakers Gaming selected Arshia “Krazy” Karimi of Dallas, Texas. Pacers Gaming selected Enrique “630” Xavier Barraza of Aurora, Illinois with the second pick. With the third pick, Warriors Gaming Squad chose Veron “Hezi” Coates of Queens, New York.

Alaina “DjLayyy” Haney of St. Louis, Missouri was selected 28^th overall by Celtics Crossover Gaming, and Ziah “ziah” Minor of Washington, D.C. was selected 52^nd overall by Mavs Gaming, becoming the second and third women, respectively, to be drafted in the NBA 2K League. In 2019, Chiquita “Chiquita” Evans was selected 56^th overall by Warriors Gaming Squad.

Five international players from four countries were selected, including the first-ever NBA 2K League players from Australia and Spain: “Faiz3752” Faiz (Canada; 33^rd overall to Nets GC), Mario “avemario32” Ortega Ariza (Spain; 41^st overall to Cavs Legion GC), Jamie “vGooner-” Bull (U.K.; 43^rd overall to Heat Check Gaming), Harsimran “Dhuggzz” Dhugga (Canada; 53^rd overall to Hornets Venom GT) and Meason “xMiLo---” Camille (Australia; 62^nd overall to Pistons GT).

The 2021 draft pool consisted of 265 players. In addition to unretained players from last season, the draft pool also included players who earned eligibility through the NBA 2K League Draft Prospect Series, international qualifying events over the last two offseasons, and the NBA 2K League Women in Gaming initiative, or by being identified by the NBA 2K League and its teams as high-performing players in the 2K community.

Recordings of virtual media availabilities with select draftees are available on NBA Media Central.

Additional details about the 2021 NBA 2K League season will be announced in the near future. For more information, fans can follow the NBA 2K League on Twitter (NBA2KLeague), Instagram (nba2kleague), Facebook (NBA 2K League), TikTok (nba2kleague), Twitch (NBA2KLeague) and YouTube (NBA 2K League) and visit NBA2KLeague.com.

Below are round-by-round results from the 2021 NBA 2K League Draft.

2021 NBA 2K LEAGUE DRAFT

RESULTS BY ROUND:

First Round
Pick	Team	Player Name	Gamer Tag
1.	Lakers Gaming	Arshia Karimi	Krazy
2.	Pacers Gaming	Enrique Xavier Barraza	630
3.	Warriors Gaming Squad	Veron Coates	Hezi
4.	76ers GC	Andre Marshall	Dre
5.	Celtics Crossover Gaming	Torin Williams	iBall Tay7o
6.	Celtics Crossover Gaming	Dorian Earl Miller	WalkingBucket
7.	Lakers Gaming	Maurice Delaney	ReeseDaGod
8.	Hornets Venom GT	Craig Burnett Jr.	rigby
9.	Knicks Gaming	Ludlow Samuels	Glothereal
10.	Knicks Gaming	Zartese Smith	NoLoveZar
11.	Hawks Talon GC	Caesar Martinez	Ceez
12.	76ers GC	Robert Ruiz	Caliraq
13.	Warriors Gaming Squad	Antoine Featherstone	III-ANTOINE-III
14.	Grizz Gaming	Joshua McHatten	spartxn
15.	Hornets Venom GT	Robert Elizondo	Trap
16.	Grizz Gaming	Kory Taylor	Chess
17.	Celtics Crossover Gaming	Jhade Black	worthingcolt
18.	Bucks Gaming	Lytel Martin	Lotty
19.	Kings Guard Gaming	Stanley Lebron	MaJes7ic
20.	Hornets Venom GT	Kingsley Braggs	Crown
21.	Cavs Legion GC	Devin Lawrence	DLAW
22.	Warriors Gaming Squad	Austin Caterino	KayAus
23.	Wizards District Gaming	Alexander Lebron	xoLebron
Second Round
Pick	Team	Player Name	Gamer Tag
24.	Lakers Gaming	Eddy Perez	BOHIO
25.	Pistons GT	Dylan Sanderson	Greenlight
26.	Pacers Gaming	Andron Thomas	LavishPhenom
27.	Mavs Gaming	Andrew Valle	MrStylez
28.	Celtics Crossover Gaming	Alaina Haney	DjLayyy
29.	Heat Check Gaming	Anthony Rivas	Wuan
30.	Warriors Gaming Squad	Matthew Grant	Matty
31.	Magic Gaming	Josue Acosta Gomez	FutureClutch
32.	Grizz Gaming	Kwan Larry Niblack Jr.	followTHEGOD
33.	Nets GC	Wahid Faiz	Faiz3752
34.	Hawks Talon GC	Thomas Batts	Fakiee
35.	Nets GC	Jake Knapp	Legit 973
36.	Grizz Gaming	Daniel Davis	DDouble
37.	Bucks Gaming	Benjamin Leal	Komp
Third Round
Pick	Team	Player Name	Gamer Tag
38.	Lakers Gaming	Jeremy Seese	Seese
39.	76ers GC

...

2021 NBA 2K League Draft No. 1 Overall Pick Arshia “Krazy” Karimi (Credit: NBA 2K League)

LAKERS GAMING SELECTS ARSHIA “KRAZY” KARIMI WITH NO. 1 OVERALL PICK IN 2021 NBA 2K LEAGUE DRAFT

- Alaina “DjLayyy” Haney (Celtics Crossover Gaming) and Ziah “ziah” Minor (Mavs Gaming) Become Second and Third Women to be Drafted into the NBA 2K League -

- Five International Players Selected, Including First-Ever

NBA 2K League Players from Australia and Spain -

Recordings of virtual media availabilities with select draftees are available on NBA Media Central.

Below are round-by-round results from the 2021 NBA 2K League Draft.

2021 NBA 2K LEAGUE DRAFT

RESULTS BY ROUND:

First Round
Pick	Team	Player Name	Gamer Tag
1.	Lakers Gaming	Arshia Karimi	Krazy
2.	Pacers Gaming	Enrique Xavier Barraza	630
3.	Warriors Gaming Squad	Veron Coates	Hezi
4.	76ers GC	Andre Marshall	Dre
5.	Celtics Crossover Gaming	Torin Williams	iBall Tay7o
6.	Celtics Crossover Gaming	Dorian Earl Miller	WalkingBucket
7.	Lakers Gaming	Maurice Delaney	ReeseDaGod
8.	Hornets Venom GT	Craig Burnett Jr.	rigby
9.	Knicks Gaming	Ludlow Samuels	Glothereal
10.	Knicks Gaming	Zartese Smith	NoLoveZar
11.	Hawks Talon GC	Caesar Martinez	Ceez
12.	76ers GC	Robert Ruiz	Caliraq
13.	Warriors Gaming Squad	Antoine Featherstone	III-ANTOINE-III
14.	Grizz Gaming	Joshua McHatten	spartxn
15.	Hornets Venom GT	Robert Elizondo	Trap
16.	Grizz Gaming	Kory Taylor	Chess
17.	Celtics Crossover Gaming	Jhade Black	worthingcolt
18.	Bucks Gaming	Lytel Martin	Lotty
19.	Kings Guard Gaming	Stanley Lebron	MaJes7ic
20.	Hornets Venom GT	Kingsley Braggs	Crown
21.	Cavs Legion GC	Devin Lawrence	DLAW
22.	Warriors Gaming Squad	Austin Caterino	KayAus
23.	Wizards District Gaming	Alexander Lebron	xoLebron
Second Round
Pick	Team	Player Name	Gamer Tag
24.	Lakers Gaming	Eddy Perez	BOHIO
25.	Pistons GT	Dylan Sanderson	Greenlight
26.	Pacers Gaming	Andron Thomas	LavishPhenom
27.	Mavs Gaming	Andrew Valle	MrStylez
28.	Celtics Crossover Gaming	Alaina Haney	DjLayyy
29.	Heat Check Gaming	Anthony Rivas	Wuan
30.	Warriors Gaming Squad	Matthew Grant	Matty
31.	Magic Gaming	Josue Acosta Gomez	FutureClutch
32.	Grizz Gaming	Kwan Larry Niblack Jr.	followTHEGOD
33.	Nets GC	Wahid Faiz	Faiz3752
34.	Hawks Talon GC	Thomas Batts	Fakiee
35.	Nets GC	Jake Knapp	Legit 973
36.	Grizz Gaming	Daniel Davis	DDouble
37.	Bucks Gaming	Benjamin Leal	Komp
Third Round
Pick	Team	Player Name	Gamer Tag
38.	Lakers Gaming	Jeremy Seese	Seese
39.	76ers GC

LEBRON JAMES AND LOS ANGELES LAKERS LEAD NBA MERCHANDISE SALES THROUGH FIRST HALF OF 2020-21 SEASON

– Brooklyn Nets Finish Second in Team Merchandise Sales, Marking the Franchise’s Highest-Ever Ranking –

NEW YORK, March 11, 2021 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) and National Basketball Players Association today jointly announced that LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers secured the top spots on the NBA’s Most Popular Jersey and Team Merchandise lists. Results are based on NBAStore.com sales for the First Half of the 2020-21 NBA season.

Additional highlights:

The Brooklyn Nets’ (No. 2) position on the team merchandise list marks the franchise’s highest ranking ever with three players in the top 10 on the jersey list with Kevin Durant at No. 3, Kyrie Irving at No. 6 and James Harden at No. 9.
Zion Williamson (No. 10) of the New Orleans Pelicans cracks the top 10 in jersey sales for the first time.
The Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young (No. 14) makes his debut on the jersey list.

TNT tips off its coverage of the Second Half of the season tonight with a doubleheader as the Nets host the Boston Celtics (7:30 p.m. ET) and the Golden State Warriors visit the LA Clippers (10 p.m. ET).

Top 15 Most Popular NBA Jerseys:

1. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers

2. Luka Dončić, Dallas Mavericks

3. Kevin Durant, Brooklyn Nets

4. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

5. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

6. Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets

7. Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers

8. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics

9. James Harden, Brooklyn Nets

10. Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans

11. Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat

12. Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers

13. Kawhi Leonard, LA Clippers

14. Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks

15. Russell Westbrook, Washington Wizards

Top 10 Most Popular Team Merchandise:

1. Los Angeles Lakers

2. Brooklyn Nets

3. Golden State Warriors

4. Boston Celtics

5. Philadelphia 76ers

6. Miami Heat

7. Chicago Bulls

8. Dallas Mavericks

9. Toronto Raptors

10. Milwaukee Bucks

2020 NBA 2K League Draft group photo (Feb. 22, 2020; Credit: NBAE/Getty Images)

2021 NBA 2K League Draft music video – “Symphonies” by ISO INDIES (Credit: NBA 2K League)

NBA 2K LEAGUE REVEALS 265 PLAYERS VYING FOR 63 SPOTS AT

2021 NBA 2K LEAGUE DRAFT

- Draft Pool Includes Record 33 International Players and 10 Women;

Lakers Gaming Has First Overall Pick -

- Special Guests Announcing Picks Include 2 Chainz, Big Latto, Rich Gotham, Robert Horry, James Jordan, Daryl Morey and Quentin Richardson -

NEW YORK, March 11, 2021 – The NBA 2K League today announced the pool of 265 players who are eligible for the 2021 NBA 2K League Draft, which will be held virtually on Saturday, March 13 at 7 p.m. ET and livestreamed on the NBA 2K League’s Twitch and YouTube channels.

The 265 draft-eligible players consist of 175 players who earned eligibility through the NBA 2K League Draft Prospect Series, 22 players from international qualifying events over the last two offseasons, five players from the NBA 2K League’s Women in Gaming initiative, five players who were identified by the NBA 2K League and its teams as high-performing players in the 2K community, and 58 unretained players from the 2020 season. The offseason evaluation process also featured events for teams to evaluate only draft-eligible players competing against each other, including the NBA 2K League Draft Prospect Series Showcase and the NBA 2K League Combine. A complete list of draft-eligible players is available here*.

This year’s draft pool includes a record 33 international players from nine countries – Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Singapore, Spain, Turkey and the U.K. – and a record 10 women, who earned eligibility through both the NBA 2K League Draft Prospect Series and the NBA 2K League’s Women in Gaming initiative. Fans can visit the NBA 2K League YouTube channel to meet some of the members of this year’s class in the NBA 2K League original content series, “Draft Hopefuls.”

At the conclusion of the four-round draft, all 23 NBA 2K League teams will have completed their six-person rosters. Lakers Gaming has the first overall pick, Pacers Gaming has the second overall pick, and the Gen.G Tigers of Shanghai have the third overall pick. For the complete draft order, click here.

“The 2020-21 offseason evaluation process was our most extensive to date, including 38 team-hosted tournaments as part of the NBA 2K League Draft Prospect Series, three international qualifying tournaments, a revamped Women in Gaming initiative and our first combine solely for draft-eligible players,” said NBA 2K League President Brendan Donohue. “We’re looking forward to an exciting draft night as our teams add 63 of the best 2K players in the world in advance of our fourth season.”

For the first time, fans watching the draft will have access to a variety of viewing options through Twitch’s Command Center, including 2v2 MyPark games with former NBA 2K League players and draftees; live interviews with draftees; and the Virtual VIP Lounge featuring influencers Champ2K, Dominus, Dribble2Much, KILLA KAY, KRYPTO9095, Miro and Overtime Megan . The broadcast will also feature special guests announcing select picks, including hip-hop artists 2 Chainz (Hawks Talon GC) and Big Latto (Hawks Talon GC), Boston Celtics President Rich Gotham (CLTX Crossover Gaming), seven-time NBA Champion Robert Horry (Lakers Gaming), Executive Vice President of Operations for Hornets Sports & Entertainment James Jordan (Hornets Venom GT), Philadelphia 76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey (76ers GC) and former NBA player Quentin Richardson (Magic Gaming), as well as a live musical performance by hip-hop recording group ISO INDIES.

Scott Cole will return to host the 2021 NBA 2K League Draft alongside color commentator, esports host and broadcaster Malik Forte, NBA 2K League sideline reporter Autumn Johnson and sports host Ms.Basketball, who will serve as the Virtual VIP Lounge host. Additionally, sports and video game journalist Brian Mazique of Forbes.com and Heavy.com has joined the NBA 2K League as an insider and beat writer. Beginning with the 2021 Draft, Mazique will appear on NBA 2K League broadcasts throughout the season and will cover the league for NBA2KLeague.com.

First round selections and select additional players will be available to media via Zoom after their selection. Media interested in attending Zoom availabilities with draftees must RSVP to Devon Garden (dgarden@nba.com) by Saturday, March 13.

For more information, fans can follow the NBA 2K League on Twitter (NBA2KLeague), Instagram (nba2kleague), Facebook (NBA 2K League), TikTok (nba2kleague), Twitch (NBA2KLeague) and YouTube (NBA 2K League) and visit NBA2KLeague.com.

*Draft pool is subject to change

About the NBA 2K League
The NBA 2K League, a professional esports league co-founded by the NBA and Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTWO), launched in 2018 and features the best NBA 2K players in the world. Each of the league’s 23 teams features six players who compete as unique characters in 5-on-5 play against the other teams in a mix of regular-season games, tournaments and playoffs. NBA 2K League partners include Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, Champion Athleticwear, Dash Radio, DoorDash, Mondelēz International, Raynor Gaming, SAP, SCUF Gaming, Snickers, Twitch, Wilson and YouTube. For more information about the NBA 2K League, visit NBA2KLeague.com.

The following is being sent on behalf of the Naismith MemorialBasketball Hall of Fame

Wayne Embry, George Raveling and Bill Russell Named Winners of 2020 Mannie Jackson - Basketball’s Human Spirit Award

Hall of Fame Recognizes Leaders in Basketball for Humanitarian Efforts

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (March 10, 2021) – The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announced today the winners of the 2020 Mannie Jackson - Basketball’s Human Spirit Award. Honored for their decades-long commitment to social justice, the 2020 award recipients are Wayne Embry, George Raveling and Bill Russell. The winners will be formally recognized in May 2020 during Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend at Mohegan Sun.

“The Basketball Hall of Fame is proud to recognize Wayne Embry, George Raveling, and Bill Russell as the 2020 Mannie Jackson Award recipients,” said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. “These gentlemen have long been recognized for their impact on the game as players, coaches and executives, but it is equally important for us to celebrate them for their work as social justice trailblazers who paved their own way and created countless opportunities for others.”

Established in 2007, the Mannie Jackson - Basketball’s Human Spirit Award honors individuals who have found the game of basketball to be a contributing aspect of their personal growth and accomplishment, a place to develop an understanding of others and an avenue that has helped shape his or her growth into a recognized visionary leader. Winners must reflect the values of Mannie Jackson’s life-long mission to overcome obstacles and challenge the status quo, while taking responsibility for his or her actions and seeking the highest standard of excellence.

Embry, Raveling and Russell were chosen from a large candidate pool that represents every level of basketball and is reviewed annually by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and Mr. Jackson. The winner recognition process was paused in 2020 due to the global pandemic and two sets of winners are expected to be recognized in the 2021 calendar year.

“A Hall of Fame should recognize great athletes, but also the great people who are in athletics and are doing extraordinary things for the world around them,” said Mannie Jackson, the Award’s namesake. “The men we are honoring today have been faced with tremendous adversity in their lives, challenging status quos and striving for equality and opportunities for all. Basketball players, coaches and fans are all indebted to these men for the work they’ve done to make basketball the unifying game it is today.”

Jackson has served as a positive example and role model to his peers, in addition to his tremendous business success. A former star for the Harlem Globetrotters, Jackson served as a senior executive for Honeywell Inc. during the 1980’s and early 1990’s and saved the Globetrotters from near extinction in 1993 when he purchased the team. In doing so, Mannie Jackson became the first Black owner of a major international sports and entertainment organization. In a short period of time, Jackson revived the organization and led the Globetrotters to record attendance and revenue growth while expanding the influence of the Globetrotters to more than 118 countries. Under Jackson’s watch, the Globetrotters charitable contributions totaled over $15 million and in 2002 the Harlem Globetrotters were elected into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

In 2012, Jackson penned his bestselling autobiography, “Boxcar To Boardrooms” and continues to donate generously to numerous causes including the University of Illinois, South African youth funds, cancer research and the Basketball Hall of Fame. He is also active in promoting the mission of the Mannie Jackson Center for the Humanities located in his hometown Edwardsville, Illinois, while serving as the Center’s lead investor. He was enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017.

The Mannie Jackson - Basketball’s Human Spirit Award Winners 2020

Wayne Embry – Wayne Embry is a revolutionary sports executive, as the first Black General Manager in the NBA with the Milwaukee Bucks in 1972 and the first Black President of any professional sports team. He has been a prominent community activist and mentor in each city where he has lived and worked, while also serving as a board member and leader to numerous non-profits, including the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Miami University and USA Basketball. Embry has been honored with Miami University’s Distinguished Achievement Medal (2001), the Ohio Heritage Award for his contributions to the state (2013) and the Toronto Raptors’ Wayne Embry Fellowship Program. Embry has been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1999), the Ohio College Basketball Hall of Fame (2006) and the Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame (2013).

George Raveling – George Raveling is a civil rights pioneer dating back to the day he stood on the steps next to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Raveling was the first Black coach hired by the Atlantic Coast Conference and the first Black head coach in the Pac 12. He is a vocal advocate for the Black Coaches Association and a tremendous mentor to many administrators, coaches and players. For more than 20 years, he has served as Nike’s Global Ambassador for the game, while also serving on the boards of USA Basketball, the NABC, the NCAA and the Basketball Hall of Fame’s Board of Governors. Raveling has been inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame (2013) and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2015), as well as the Washington State, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Villanova and Black Coaches Association Halls of Fame.

Bill Russell – Bill Russell led the Boston Celtics to 11 NBA championships, and while his athletic achievements are astonishing, he has also been a prominent civil rights activist for more than half a century. As both a player and coach, he experienced countless racial injustices including segregation and mistreatment rooted in bigotry. He has always been vocal about his experiences and in 1963 he participated in the March on Washington. In 1966, he became the first Black head coach in major professional sports and in 1968 he became the first Black head coach to win an NBA championship. Russell is a recipient of the NBA’s National Civil Rights Museum Sports Legacy Award (2006) and the ESPY’s Arthur Ashe Courage Award (2019). Russell has been inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame (2006) and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1975). In 2010, President Obama awarded Russell the highest civilian honor, The Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The Mannie Jackson – Basketball’s Human Spirit Award Winners 2007-2019

2019: Carmelo Anthony, TyRone Brown, Dawn Staley

2018: J.J. Barea, Tina Charles, Boris Diaw

2017: Bob Hurley, Nancy Lieberman, Dwyane Wade

2016: Chris Paul, Jalen Rose, Tubby Smith

2015: Paul Fireman, Bill Self, Steve Smith

2014: Bob Delaney, Robert L. Johnson

2013: Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Pat Summitt, Boo Williams

2012: Jim Calhoun, Grant Hill, Dr. Richard Lapchick

2011: Chauncey Billups, Dr. John “Jumpin’ Johnny” Kline, The V Foundation

2010: Jim Boeheim, Samuel Dalembert, Alfreda Harris

2009: Ken Hudson, Bob Lanier, Alonzo Mourning

2008: Sonny Hill, David Robinson

2007: Dikembe Mutombo

MIAMI’S MEYERS LEONARD FINED $50,000 AND

SUSPENDED FROM TEAM ACTIVITIES

NEW YORK, March 11, 2021 – Miami Heat player Meyers Leonard has been fined $50,000 and suspended from all Heat facilities and team activities for one week for an anti-Semitic comment he made Monday, March 8, the NBA announced today. Leonard will also be required to participate in a cultural diversity program. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released the following statement:

“Meyers Leonard’s comment was inexcusable and hurtful and such an offensive term has no place in the NBA or in our society. Yesterday, he spoke to representatives of the Anti-Defamation League to better understand the impact of his words and we accept that he is genuinely remorseful. We have further communicated to Meyers that derogatory comments like this will not be tolerated and that he will be expected to uphold the core values of our league – equality, tolerance, inclusion and respect – at all times moving forward.”

NBA AND MONDELĒZ INTERNATIONAL, MAKER OF OREO, RITZ, SOUR PATCH KIDS AND OTHER ICONIC SNACKS, ANNOUNCE MULTIYEAR MARKETING AND LICENSING PARTNERSHIP

– Partnership Spans the NBA, WNBA, NBA G League, NBA 2K League and USA Basketball –

NEW YORK, March 10, 2021 – Mondel ēz International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MDLZ), the National Basketball Association (NBA) and USA Basketball today announced a multiyear partnership that makes the leading snacking company an Official Partner of the NBA, Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), NBA G League, NBA 2K League and USA Basketball.

As part of the partnership, Mondelēz International will create a variety of products and consumer promotions with the NBA, WNBA, NBA G League, NBA 2K League and USA Basketball featuring leading brands from the Mondelēz International portfolio such as OREO Cookies, Chips Ahoy!, Nutter Butter, belVita, Ritz Crackers, Trident and Sour Patch Kids.

“We’re excited to work with the NBA to further our shared commitment of bringing people together and building communities,” said Rachel Lawson, Associate Director Scale Consumer and Retail Engagement, Mondelēz International. “Through this partnership, we will create moments across our brand portfolio that unite all NBA enthusiasts – from teammates and coaches, to fans and families.”

Mondelēz International and the NBA will tip off their partnership later this month at retailers nationwide with the launch of limited-edition NBA Dynasty OREO Cookies. A playful new take on the original cookie, each pack features six unique embossments on top of the chocolate wafers that spotlight logos of some of the greatest dynasties in NBA history: the Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs.

“Creating unique products and consumer promotions with Mondelēz International’s iconic collection of brands is going to be an enjoyable way to bring our partnership together for NBA fans,” said Dan Rossomondo, Senior Vice President, Head of Media and Business Development, NBA.

In addition to the limited-edition packs, the NBA and Mondelēz International will introduce a “Taste Greatness” sweepstakes later this month with a chance for fans to win a grand prize trip to NBA All-Star 2022.

Be on the lookout for specialty marked packaging and visit TasteGreatnessVIP.com to learn more about the #TasteGreatness sweepstakes. ¹

About Mondelēz International

Mondelēz International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MDLZ) empowers people to snack right in over 150 countries around the world. With 2020 net revenues of approximately $27 billion, MDLZ is leading the future of snacking with iconic global and local brands such as OREO, belVita and LU biscuits; Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone chocolate; Sour Patch Kids candy and Trident gum. Mondelēz International is a proud member of the Standard and Poor’s 500, Nasdaq 100 and Dow Jones Sustainability Index. Visit www.mondelezinternational.com or follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDLZ.

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Announces

14 Finalists for Class of 2021 Election

Chris Bosh, Paul Pierce, Jay Wright and Lauren Jackson Among First-Time Finalists

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (March 9, 2021) – The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame today announced nine extraordinary players and five exceptional coaches as finalists from the North American and Women’s committees to be considered for election in 2021. A first look at the list of finalists was provided by The Jump on ESPN, hosted by Rachel Nichols.

This year’s list includes nine first-time finalists: ninth-winningest coach in NBA history Rick Adelman, two-time NBA champion and 11-time NBA All-Star Chris Bosh, five-time NBA champion and five-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection Michael Cooper, NBA Finals MVP and 10-time NBA All-Star Paul Pierce, the first Black NBA head coach Bill Russell, two-time NCAA national champion Villanova coach Jay Wright, seven-time WNBA All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist Yolanda Griffith, seven-time WNBA All-Star and three-time WNBA Most Valuable Player Lauren Jackson, and NCAA national champion and WNBA Coach of the Year Marianne Stanley.

Previous finalists included again this year for consideration are: the all-time winningest high school coach Leta Andrews, five-time NBA All-Star Tim Hardaway, consensus National Collegiate Player of the Year Marques Johnson, four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year Ben Wallace, and five-time NBA All-Star Chris Webber.

“While our timeline of events over the past year has been adaptable and reimagined due to the global pandemic, we have never wavered in our commitment to renovating our beautiful museum and recognizing the greats of the game who deserve to be immortalized there,” said Jerry Colangelo, Chairman of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. “Revealing the finalists for the Class of 2021 today is an exciting step towards honoring the men and women who have contributed greatly to the game we celebrate.”

The entire Class of 2021, including those selected by the direct elect committees, will be unveiled on May 16, 2021. Direct elect committees include the International Committee, Men’s and Women’s Veterans Committees, the Early African American Pioneer Committee and the Contributor Committee. Event details are forthcoming, and the announcement timeline is subject to change. The Class of 2021 Enshrinement ceremony is scheduled to take place in September 2021. The date of the Class of 2021 Ceremony will be announced prior to the Class of 2021 Announcement on May 16.

As previously announced, the Class of 2020 Enshrinement ceremony has been rescheduled and relocated due to COVID-19 and is scheduled for May 14-16, 2021 at Mohegan Sun.

For ticket information regarding the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2020 and 2021 Enshrinement ceremonies and various events surrounding the ceremonies please visit www.hoophall.com. For the latest news and updates, follow @hoophall on Twitter and Instagram.

North American Committee Finalists:

RICK ADELMAN [Coach] – Adelman coached in the NBA for more than three decades, compiling an overall head coaching record of 1042-749 (.582). His teams reached the playoffs in 16 of his 23 seasons at the helm and he led the Portland Trail Blazers to two NBA Finals (1990, 1992). Adelman ranks ninth all-time in NBA career wins, including two 60-win seasons and 11 50-win seasons. He reached 200 wins in just 288 games, a record at the time. Adelman is a three-time NBA All-Star Game head coach (1991, 2001, 2003). He coached several Hall of Fame players including Clyde Drexler, Tracy McGrady, Yao Ming, Dikembe Mutombo, Chris Mullin and Drazen Petrovic.

CHRIS BOSH [Player] – Bosh is an 11-time NBA All-Star (2006-2016) and a two-time NBA Champion with the Miami Heat (2012, 2013). In 13 NBA seasons, he averaged 19.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Drafted by the Toronto Raptors, he was a member of the NBA All-Rookie Team in 2003-2004. As a collegiate athlete at Georgia Tech, Bosh earned ACC Rookie of the Year in 2003. As a high school standout in 2002, Bosh was named Texas Mr. Basketball and a McDonald’s All-American, while leading Lincoln High to a state and national championship with a 40-0 record. On the international stage, Bosh won an Olympic gold medal in 2008.

MICHAEL COOPER [Player] – Cooper is a five-time NBA Champion with the Showtime Los Angeles Lakers (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988) and is best known for his defensive contributions to an offensively gifted team. He earned NBA All-Defensive First Team honors five times (1982, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988) and was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 1987. In 1986, he collected the J. Walter Kennedy Citizen Award for outstanding service in his community. He played one season for Virtus Roma, where he received the Italian All-Star Game MVP in 1991. As a collegiate athlete at University of New Mexico, Cooper was named a USBWA First Team All-American.

TIM HARDAWAY [Player] – A 2000 Olympic Gold Medalist, Hardaway played 13 NBA seasons scoring a total of 15,373 points while averaging more than 20 points per game for four consecutive seasons. He is the 1990 recipient of the Jack McMahon Award for most inspirational player and a 1997 All-NBA First Team selection. He currently ranks 18th in NBA history with 7,095 career assists. The Chicago native was a member of the men’s basketball team at the University of Texas at El Paso (1985-1989) and is known for making his signature move – the “UTEP Two-step” – famous in 1989, the same year he was named WAC Player of the Year.

MARQUES JOHNSON [Player] – Johnson is a five-time NBA All-Star (1979-81, 1983, 1986) and a member of the 1978 NBA All-Rookie First Team and the 1979 All-NBA First Team. He was also named the NBA Comeback Player of the Year in 1986. In 11 NBA seasons, he averaged 20.1 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. As a student-athlete at UCLA under the direction of Hall of Famer John Wooden, Johnson was a member of an NCAA national championship team (1975). In 1977, he was named Pac-8 Player of the Year and the consensus National Collegiate Player of the Year. Johnson has been inducted into the Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame (2013).

PAUL PIERCE [Player] – Pierce is a 10-time NBA All-Star (2002-06, 2008-2012) and 2008 NBA Champion with the Boston Celtics. In 2008, he was named NBA Finals Most Valuable Player. After 19 seasons in the NBA, Pierce ranks ninth all-time in free throws made and three-point field goals made, as well as 19th all-time in NBA scoring with 26,397 points. Drafted by the Celtics, Pierce was named a member of the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 1999. As a Kansas Jayhawk, he was a unanimous First Team All-American in 1998. With Inglewood High, Pierce was named California Mr. Basketball and a McDonald’s All-American in 1995. His number 34 is retired by the Boston Celtics and Kansas Jayhawks.

BILL RUSSELL [Coach] – Following the retirement of legendary Boston Celtics coach Red Auerbach in 1966, Bill Russell became the first Black head coach in the NBA. In his second season as player-coach, Russell led the Boston Celtics to the 1968 NBA championship, thus becoming the first Black head coach to win an NBA title. The following season, Russell would again lead Boston to the NBA Finals and championship, his eleventh and final ring. With the Celtics, Seattle SuperSonics and Sacramento Kings, he compiled an NBA coaching record of 341-290 (.540), with a playoff record of 34-27 (.557). As a player-coach, Russell was named the Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year in 1968. Russell was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a player in 1975.

BEN WALLACE [Player] – Wallace is a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2002, 2003, 2005, 2006), four-time NBA All-Star (2003-06) and NBA Champion with the Detroit Pistons (2004). He earned NBA All-Defensive Team honors five times (2002-2006) and All-NBA Second Team three times (2003, 2004, 2006), while leading the NBA in rebounds per game (2002, 2003) and blocked shots (2002). As a collegiate athlete at Virginia Union University, Wallace was a CIAA Tournament Champion and Tournament MVP in 1995 and a Division II First Team All-American in 1996.

CHRIS WEBBER [Player] – Webber is a five-time NBA All-Star (1997, 2000-2003) and the 1994 NBA Rookie of the Year. He earned All-NBA First Team honors in 2001 and All-NBA Second Team three times (1999, 2002, 2003). He led the NBA in rebounds per game during the 1998-1999 season and averaged more than 20 points per game for nine consecutive seasons (1994-2003). As a member of the “Fab Five,” Webber led University of Michigan to Final Four appearances in 1992 and 1993 and was a Unanimous First Team All-America selection in 1993. As a high school phenom at Detroit Country Day School, he was named the McDonald’s All-American Game MVP, Michigan’s Mr. Basketball, and the Naismith Prep Player of the Year in 1991.

JAY WRIGHT [Coach] – Wright is a two-time Naismith National Coach of the Year (2006, 2016), six-time Big East Conference Coach of the Year (2006, 2009, 2014-16, 2019) and the first coach in NCAA history to lead a team to four consecutive 30-win seasons. He led Villanova to two NCAA national championships (2016, 2018) and seven Big East regular season championships (2006, 2014-17, 2019, 2020). In all, Wright has guided Villanova to three Final Fours, four Elite Eights and four Sweet Sixteen appearances. Through the 2019-20 season, he had compiled an overall coaching record of 594-267 (.690). Wright was named the recipient of the John R. Wooden Legends of Coaching Award in 2018.

Women’s Committee Finalists:

LETA ANDREWS [Coach] – Andrews has coached high school basketball for over fifty years and is the all-time winningest high school coach, male or female. She has coached five high schools in Texas since 1962 and has led them to sixteen state Final Four appearances, plus a state championship in 1990. Andrews has served as Head coach of the McDonald’s All-America Game West team (2004) and Gatorade All-America Game West team (2009). She was named the NHSCA National High School Coach of the Year (2007) and recipient of the Morgan Wootten Lifetime Achievement Award (2007). She has been inducted into the High School Basketball Hall of Fame (1995) and Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2010).

YOLANDA GRIFFITH [Player] – Griffith is a seven-time WNBA All-Star (1999-2001, 2003, 2005-2007) and two-time Olympic gold medalist (2000, 2004). She led the Sacramento Monarchs to a WNBA Championship in 2005 while being named to the All-WNBA First Team and WNBA All-Defensive First Team the same year. In 1999, Griffith earned WNBA MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, while leading the league in field goals, rebounds, offensive rebounds and steals per game. Griffith was named a member of the WNBA’s All-Decade Team in 2006 and the Top 20 Players in the league’s 20-year history in 2016. She began her pro career in the ABL, earning Defensive Player of the Year and All-ABL First Team in 1998. As a student athlete at Florida Atlantic University, Griffith earned WBCA Division II Player of the Year in 1993.

LAUREN JACKSON [Player] – Jackson is a seven-time WNBA All-Star (2001-2003, 2005-2007, 2009) and three-time WNBA Most Valuable Player (2003, 2007, 2010). She led the Seattle Storm to WNBA Championships in 2004 and 2010, while collecting WNBA Finals MVP honors in 2010. In 2007, Jackson was named the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, while leading the league in rebounding and points per game. Jackson was named a member of the WNBA’s All-Decade Team in 2006 and the Top 20 Players in the league’s 20-year history in 2016. As a superstar of the WNBL, Jackson is a five-time All-Star (1999-2004), four-time MVP (1999, 2000, 2003, 2004) and four-time Grand Final MVP (2002, 2003, 2006, 2010). With the Australian national team, she is a three-time Olympic silver medalist (2000, 2004, 2008).

MARIANNE STANLEY [Coach] – Stanley has a women’s basketball coaching career that spans more than 40 years at the collegiate and professional level. In the collegiate ranks for over 20 years, Stanley led Old Dominion to an NCAA national championship in 1985 and compiled an overall collegiate coaching record of 416-222 (.652). She led her teams to three NCAA Final Four appearances (1983, 1985, 1996) and guided Old Dominion to consecutive AIAW national championships (1979,1980) and a WNIT championship (1978). Stanley has been named AIAW National Coach of the Year (1979), Sun Belt Conference Coach of the Year (1984, 1985), and Pac-10 Conference Coach of the Year (1993). Since 2000, she has served as an assistant and head coach for several WNBA franchises, earning WNBA Coach of the Year in 2002 at the helm of the Washington Mystics.

About the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame: Located in Springfield, Massachusetts, the city where basketball was born, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting, preserving and celebrating the game of basketball at every level – men and women, amateur and professional players, coaches and contributors, both domestically and internationally. The Hall of Fame museum is home to more than 400 inductees and over 40,000 square feet of basketball history. Nearly 200,000 people visit the Hall of Fame museum each year to learn about the game, experience the interactive exhibits and test their skills on the Jerry Colangelo "Court of Dreams." Best known for its annual marquee Enshrinement Ceremony honoring the game’s elite, the Hall of Fame also operates over 70 high school and collegiate competitions annually throughout the country and abroad. For more information on the Basketball Hall of Fame organization, its museum and events, visit www.hoophall.com, follow @hoophall #21HoopClass or call 1-877-4HOOPLA.

Tonight, the NBA unveiled the logos for NBA All-Star 2022 in Cleveland, OH.

The Land-inspired, primary design features the iconic Terminal Tower on Public Square in downtown Cleveland and three stars for the three Cleveland-hosted NBA All-Star games (1981/Richfield Coliseum, 1997/Gund Arena and now 2022/Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse). The Cleveland Cavaliers’ signature font and team colors – wine and gold – are also incorporated into the primary logo scheme. The secondary logos feature a predominate star design with the Terminal Tower and team colors incorporated.

The 71^st annual NBA All-Star Game will be played on Sunday, Feb. 20, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, home of the Cavaliers, during the NBA’s 75^th anniversary season.

AS22_Cleveland_Primary

PRIMARY LOGO

AS22_Cleveland_Star AS22_Cleveland_Word

SECONDARY LOGOS

The full logo assortment can be found here.

The logo launch video produced by the Cleveland Cavaliers can be viewed here.

WNBA TO COMMEMORATE 25th SEASON WITH “COUNT IT” CAMPAIGN

AND SEASON-LONG CELEBRATIONS AND EVENTS

– WNBA Launches Special Edition Logo to Showcase Historic 25th Season –

– League Convenes Advisory Council Comprised of Legends and Original Architects of the WNBA –

NEW YORK, March 15, 2021 – In celebration of Women’s History Month, the WNBA announced today plans for the league’s landmark 25^th season, which include a new campaign, Count It, and a distinguishing and purposeful 25^th season logo. Among season-long celebrations to highlight the league’s milestones and breakthroughs over the years, all 12 WNBA teams will host specially-themed events and fan promotions. The WNBA will also celebrate the ways its players have shattered expectations and have stood at the forefront of advancement, inclusion and social change for 25 years.

WNBA Season 25 activations will include a roll out of various elements from now until season tip-off, including new uniforms, a new game ball, the launch of a new in-season competition, and more.

“As we look to celebrate the first 25 years of the league, we are also setting the stage for the next 25 years. The WNBA’s new distinctive 25th season logo and Count It campaign signify what makes the league unique,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “We are celebrating a quarter of a century of the impact the WNBA has made on sports and society, and on generations of young and diverse athletes.”

The commemorative logo will be displayed on the courts, jerseys and game ball.

“We are thrilled to launch a new narrative around the upcoming WNBA season that is rooted in defying expectations and excelling in the face of adversity,” said Phil Cook, WNBA Chief Marketing Officer. “The WNBA’s 25^th Season logo signifies that the league isn’t done ‘Counting’ achievements because there are countless more to come. The WNBA is on the rise and we’re excited to bring fans along the journey through a monumental season for the league and for the seasons ahead.”

Select initiatives for the WNBA’s historic 25^th season include the following:

The W25

To commemorate the historic season, the WNBA will select and honor the league’s greatest players since its inception in 1997. These game-changing athletes will be selected based on their overall contribution to the league and community. Consideration will be given to such factors as on-court performance and ability, leadership, sportsmanship and community service, as well as to contributions to team success and the overall growth of women’s basketball. WNBA fans will also have the chance to vote on their favorite players and choose those they believe should be part of this elite collection of athletes.

WNBA 25 Greatest Moments

The WNBA’s 25 Greatest Moments will also be determined during the 2021 campaign with the moments being ranked from No. 25 through No. 1 and unveiled during the second half of the season and the playoffs.

Details on the voting process and timeline for both programs will be announced at a later date.

New WNBA Outfitting and Game Ball for 25^th Season

Leading up to the start of the 25th season, inaugural WNBA Changemaker Nike will celebrate the league’s dynamic athletes with new uniform innovation with deeper storytelling and details.

Additionally, the official Wilson WNBA game ball will usher in a new chapter for the league, which is highlighted by Wilson’s commitment to growing the game of basketball and their support of the WNBA and its players, coaches and fans through the most advanced, high-performance game ball.

WNBA 25^th Season Advisory Council

The WNBA has established a new advisory council for the 25^th season, comprised of women’s basketball pioneers and WNBA legends, to capture historic perspective, hear from legacy advisors and successful sports business people, and propel WNBA business objectives. The council is meeting periodically to help generate innovative ideas on how to grow the game and its fanbase. The advisory board consists of iconic retired WNBA players, including four-time WNBA champion and four-time WNBA finals MVP Cynthia Cooper, WNBA champion and founder of Electra Beverages Fran Harris, two-time WNBA champion and three-time MVP Lauren Jackson, two-time WNBA champion and three-time MVP Lisa Leslie, WNBA All-Star and current ESPN reporter and analyst, Rebecca Lobo, four-time WNBA champion and three-time MVP Sheryl Swoopes, four-time WNBA champion and current University of Minnesota Women’s Head Coach Lindsay Whalen and Teresa Weatherspoon, five-time WNBA All-Star and New Orleans Pelicans Assistant Coach. Additional advisory board members are Val Ackerman, Commissioner of the Big East and the WNBA’s founding President, Carol Stiff, ESPN Vice President of Programming and Acquisitions, and Rick Welts, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Golden State Warriors, 1998 Marketer of the Year for his assistance launching the WNBA and a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame’s Class of 2018.

WNBA Social Justice

Established in the lead up to the 2020 season, the WNBA Justice Movement is the platform through which the league will continue to lead important work in the community to combat racial and gender inequality, promote advocacy for LBGTQ+ rights, and champion reform in systems where injustice persists. These collaborative efforts, led by the WNBA/WNBPA Social Justice Council, represent a continued commitment to advancing social justice and being a driving force of necessary change. During the 25^th season, The Justice Movement will celebrate the league’s history of advocacy across a variety of societal issues.

NEW ORLEANS’ WILLIAMSON TO REPLACE PHILADELPHIA’S EMBIID AS STARTER FOR TEAM DURANT IN 2021 NBA ALL-STAR GAME

NEW YORK, March 7, 2021 – New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson will replace Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid in the starting lineup for Team Durant in the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, which will be played tonight at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

According to NBA rules, if an All-Star Game starter is unable to participate in the game after the All-Star Draft has been conducted, the head coach of his All-Star team will name a replacement starter from that team’s group of reserves. Team Durant head coach Doc Rivers of the 76ers selected Williamson to replace Embiid, who will not play today in accordance with the NBA’s Health and Safety Protocols.

TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage will begin today at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage will begin at 8 p.m. ET, with AT&T Slam Dunk taking place at halftime. ESPN Radio will also air the NBA All-Star Game and AT&T Slam Dunk.

ALL-STAR HEALTH AND SAFETY UPDATE

NEW YORK, March 7, 2021 – Prior to traveling to Atlanta, Philadelphia’s Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons had contact with an individual who is confirmed today to have tested positive for the coronavirus. As a result, Embiid (Team Durant) and Simmons (Team LeBron) will not play in tonight’s NBA All-Star Game.

Participation for other All-Stars and members of the 76ers coaching staff in Atlanta is not affected because they were not exposed to the individual in Philadelphia.

VP KAMALA HARRIS AND MICHAEL B. JORDAN “SPECIAL CONVERSATION” TO AIR ON TNT PRIOR TO 2021 NBA ALL-STAR GAME

Tonight, TNT’s 2021 NBA All-Star Game coverage will open with a special conversation between Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP Harris) and award-winning actor Michael B. Jordan (@michaelb4jordan) at 8 p.m. ET. The two discuss how the VP’s time at Howard University shaped her career, her love of basketball and the need to remain vigilant to stop the spread of COVID-19 and promote the efficacy of the vaccine.

As previously announced, the NBA and National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) are committing more than $3 million in initial support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and support and awareness around equity and access to COVID-19 care, relief and vaccines through the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), UNCF (United Negro College Fund), National Association for Equal Opportunity (NAFEO) and Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity. Throughout All-Star, HBCU-inspired elements will be incorporated on broadcast and in-arena, including music, content and storytelling.

TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. Coverage of the 70^th NBA All-Star Game will begin at 8 p.m. ET, with AT&T Slam Dunk taking place at halftime. The game will follow the same format as last year, with the teams competing to win each quarter and playing to a Final Target Score during the untimed fourth quarter.

UTAH’S CONLEY TO REPLACE PHOENIX’S BOOKER
IN 2021 NBA ALL-STAR GAME AND MTN DEW^® 3-POINT CONTEST

NEW YORK, March 5, 2021 – Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley has been named by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to replace injured Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker on Team Durant in the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, which will be played on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

In addition, Conley will replace Booker in the 2021 MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest, which will be held on March 7 before the NBA All-Star Game.

This is the first NBA All-Star selection for Conley, who is in his 14^th season. He is averaging 16.1 points and 5.7 assists and shooting a career-high 42.2 percent from three-point range in 29 games this season. Conley, 33, has helped the Jazz post an NBA-best 27-9 record. He joins two Utah teammates, Team LeBron center Rudy Gobert and Team Durant guard Donovan Mitchell, in the NBA All-Star Game.

Booker is unable to play in the NBA All-Star Game or participate in the MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest because of a left knee sprain. He was named to the NBA All-Star Game by the Commissioner as an injury replacement for Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis. Booker is averaging 24.9 points and 4.4 assists in 31 games this season.

According to NBA rules, when a player selected to the All-Star Game is unable to participate, the Commissioner shall choose a replacement from the same conference as the player who is being replaced. Booker and Conley both play for Western Conference teams.

The NBA All-Star Game and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest are part of NBA All-Star 2021, which will take place on one night. TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage on March 7 will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage will begin at 8 p.m. ET, with AT&T Slam Dunk taking place at halftime.

UTAH’S MITCHELL, GOBERT FINED

NEW YORK, March 5, 2021 – Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell has been fined $25,000 for public criticism of the officiating and his conduct while exiting the playing court and Jazz center Rudy Gobert has been fined $20,000 for public criticism of the officiating, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.

Mitchell and Gobert made their comments to the media following Utah’s 131-123 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on March 3 at Wells Fargo Center.

Mitchell, who received two technical fouls and was ejected with 30.8 seconds remaining, recklessly knocked over a water cooler while leaving the court.

To view the incident, click on the following link: https://www.nba.com/watch/video/jazz-vs-76ers-3-3-2021

NBA ALL-STAR 2021 BY THE NUMBERS

ATLANTA, March 5, 2021 – NBA All-Star 2021 will take place on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, reaching fans in 215 countries and territories in more than 50 languages on their televisions, computers, mobile phones and tablets. This marks Atlanta’s third time hosting the league’s annual global celebration of basketball.

TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage in the United States will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage on TNT will begin at 8 p.m. ET, with AT&T Slam Dunk taking place at halftime. ESPN Radio coverage in the U.S. will begin at 7 p.m. ET.

Below are facts and figures about NBA All-Star 2021.

NBA All-Star Game

· 4 – The Phoenix Suns’ Chris Paul is the third player to be named an All-Star with four different franchises, joining Moses Malone and Shaquille O’Neal.

· 9 – The LA Clippers’ Paul George made a record nine 3-pointers on his way to 41 points in the 2016 NBA All-Star Game while representing the Indiana Pacers.

· 17 – The Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James has been selected as an NBA All-Star 17 times, third most in league history behind Kareem Abdul Jabbar (19) and Kobe Bryant (18). James is also set to start the All-Star Game for the 17^th consecutive year.

· 20 – At 20 years old, the New Orleans Pelicans’ Zion Williamson is set to become the fourth-youngest player to play in the NBA All-Star Game, behind Kobe Bryant, James and Magic Johnson.

· 27.3 – The Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo has the highest scoring average in NBA All-Star Game history at 27.3 points per game.

· 58 – As part of the game production, 58 cameras will be positioned around the arena, including more than 30 in robotic form in the tunnel, practice court and locker room.

· 70 – This is the 70^th edition of the NBA All-Star Game, which was first played in 1951.

· 385 – James is the leading scorer in NBA All-Star Game history with 385 points.

· 7,424,951 – NBA All-Star Voting 2021 presented by AT&T set a single-day record with 7,424,951 fan votes cast on Jan. 28.

NBA All-Star in Atlanta

· 3 – This is the third NBA All-Star in Atlanta, which previously hosted in 1978 and 2003.

· 27 – The Buffalo Braves’ Randy Smith scored 27 points to lead the Eastern Conference past the Western Conference 133-125 in the 1978 NBA All-Star Game, the first time that Atlanta hosted.

· 300 – The teams combined for 300 points in the 2003 NBA All-Star Game in Atlanta, where the Western Conference defeated the Eastern Conference 155-145 in the only double-overtime game in All-Star history. Kevin Garnett scored a game-high 37 points and Michael Jordan had 20 points in his final NBA All-Star Game.

NBA All-Star Entertainment

· 12 – All-Star entertainers have earned a combined 12 GRAMMY^® Awards during their careers.

o 7 – Gladys Knight, a seven-time GRAMMY Award winner, will sing the U.S. national anthem at NBA All-Star 2021.

o 3 – Three-time GRAMMY Award winner and Florida A&M University alum Common will introduce the Clark Atlanta University Philharmonic Society Choir, which will perform an original rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

o 1 – GRAMMY Award winner and singer-songwriter Alessia Cara will sing the Canadian national anthem.

o 1 – GRAMMY Award winner Anthony Hamilton will perform his song “Fine Again” in recognition of frontline workers.

· 100 – The nationally-recognized Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band and Florida A&M University Marching 100 will play during NBA All-Star player introductions from their respective historic campuses.

NBA All-Star Around the World

· 1 – For the first time ever in Canada, TSN, Sportsnet and RDS will televise all the All-Star events.

· 2 – Two international players have been named All-Star Game MVP: Tim Duncan (U.S. Virgin Islands; 2000) and Kyrie Irving (Australia; 2014).

· 4 – Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers; Cameroon) is one of four players born in Africa to be at least a four-time All-Star, along with Dikembe Mutombo (Democratic Republic of the Congo), Steve Nash (South Africa) and Hakeem Olajuwon (Nigeria).

· 6 – A record six European players were named All-Stars this season: Antetokounmpo (Greece), Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks; Slovenia), Rudy Gobert (Utah Jazz; France), Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets; Serbia), Domantas Sabonis (Indiana Pacers; Lithuania) and Nikola Vučević (Orlando Magic; Montenegro).

· 9/5 – There are a record nine international All-Stars, including a record five international players voted All-Star Game starters. The nine international All-Stars are Antetokounmpo, Dončić, Embiid, Gobert, Irving, Jokić, Sabonis, Ben Simmons (76ers; Australia) and Vučević.

· 14 – Fourteen active international players have been named All-Stars during their careers.

NBA All-Star on TNT

· 7 – TNT’s announcing team of Marv Albert, Reggie Miller and Chris Webber will call its seventh straight NBA All-Star Game together.

· 8 – Analysts Shaquille O’Neal (3), Isiah Thomas (2), Charles Barkley (1), Dwyane Wade (1) and Candace Parker (1) have won a combined eight All-Star MVP awards in the NBA and WNBA.

· 19 – TNT will present the NBA All-Star Game for the 19^th straight year.

NBA All-Star on ESPN Radio

· 25 – ESPN Radio will broadcast its 25^th NBA All-Star Game. Commentator Marc Kestecher and analyst Jon Barry will call the game action, with Kevin Winter and analyst P.J. Carlesimo anchoring pregame, halftime and postgame studio coverage. ESPN Radio host and Los Angeles Sparks star Chiney Ogwumike will join the broadcast at halftime as a special guest analyst for AT&T Slam Dunk.

Support for HBCUs and COVID-19 Equity Efforts

· 9 – Throughout the game, members of the Divine Nine fraternities and sororities, a prestigious group of nine historically Black Greek letter organizations, will introduce step teams from Spelman College and Morehouse College.

· 37/47 – As part of this year’s game format, the two All-Star teams will play for either UNCF (consisting of 37 member colleges) or Thurgood Marshall College Fund (composed of 47 publicly-supported HBCUs) as their respective beneficiary, with both providing scholarship funding to further HBCU students’ higher education.

· 3,400 – The Goodr NBA All-Star Grocery Pop-Up presented by Kaiser Permanente will benefit nearly 3,400 families in need across 16 locations in Metro Atlanta by providing them with free groceries and household essentials.

· 3 Million – As part of NBA All-Star 2021, the NBA and National Basketball Players Association will commit more than $3 million in initial funds and resources toward HBCUs and support awareness around equity and access to COVID-19 care, relief and vaccines.

AT&T Slam Dunk

· 1 – In the final round, the two competitors who advance that far will perform one dunk each and the winner will be determined by “Judges’ Choice” instead of individual score.

· 2 – Two Slam Dunk participants, the Portland Trail Blazers’ Anfernee Simons and the Pacers’ Cassius Stanley, have NBA G League experience.

· 3 – Nate Robinson is the only player to win Slam Dunk three times (2006, 2009, 2010).

· 7 – This year’s five Slam Dunk judges (Dee Brown, Jason Richardson, Josh Smith, Spud Webb and Dominique Wilkins) won a combined seven Slam Dunk titles.

· 44 – Stanley recorded a maximum vertical leap of 44 inches in the 2020 NBA Draft Combine, tied for the third-highest mark since 2000.

· 107 – Slam Dunk competitor Obi Toppin of the New York Knicks led Division I college basketball in dunks last season with 107.

MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest

· 3 – The 3-Point Contest will feature two shots in the deep “MTN DEW Zone” that are worth three points each.

· 6 – The six-player field will be composed entirely of 2021 NBA All-Stars – Devin Booker of the Suns, Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls and Donovan Mitchell of the Jazz – making it the first 3-Point Contest in which each participant is a current All-Star.

· 7 – Curry, the 2015 champion, will compete for the seventh time, tying Dale Ellis for the second-most appearances behind Craig Hodges (eight).

· 2,664 – Curry has made 2,664 career 3-pointers, second most in NBA history behind Ray Allen (2,973).

Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge

· 2 – Steve Nash and Dwyane Wade are the only two-time winner of the Skills Challenge.

· 5 – Chris Paul is making his record fifth appearance in the Skills Challenge and his first since 2011.

· 22 – Dončić, who turned 22 on Feb. 28, is the first player in Mavericks history to be voted as an NBA All-Star Game starter in two consecutive years.

· 2013 – Robert Covington, who entered the NBA in 2013, attended Tennessee State, an HBCU in Nashville, Tenn.

# # #

CLOROX NAMED OFFICIAL CLEANING PARTNER OF THE NBA AND WNBA

– Multiyear Deal Expands on Collaboration During 2019-20 NBA Restart and 2020 WNBA Season –

NEW YORK, March 5, 2021 – The Clorox Company, a global leader in public health and disinfection, and the National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced a multiyear agreement that makes Clorox® the Official Cleaning Partner of the NBA and Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). The multiyear agreement allows for ongoing collaboration with Clorox in promoting health and safety during NBA and WNBA games and events, including the upcoming 2021 NBA All-Star Game in Atlanta on March 7, where the cleaning brand will supply disinfecting products.

“Clorox is committed to helping people feel confident outside of the home as we get back to the activities, we all know and love,” said Heath Rigsby, Vice President of Out of Home at The Clorox Company. “We’re proud to continue our work with the NBA using our expertise in disinfection to help create a cleaner and safer experience for everyone from fans to arena staff to players, now and into the future.”

“Clorox was instrumental in our mission to create cleaner and safer environments for everyone on the NBA and WNBA campuses in Florida last summer,” said Kelly Flatow, NBA Executive Vice President of Global Events. “We are grateful to Clorox for becoming the Official Cleaning Partner of the NBA and WNBA and look forward to continuing our work and shared commitment to enhancing health and safety measures throughout the NBA and the WNBA in the years ahead.”

The announcement builds upon a previous collaboration between the two leagues and the cleaning brand during the 2019-20 NBA Restart and 2020 WNBA season. Throughout the summer of 2020, Clorox worked with the leagues to supply disinfecting products that – along with other safety measures recommended by the CDC – helped create a cleaner and safer environment for players, referees, and staff working inside the NBA and WNBA campuses in Orlando and Bradenton, respectfully.

In addition, Clorox and the Jr. NBA developed a custom digital education series, teaching children and families how to properly follow the latest health and safety measures in accordance with best practices from the CDC.

LEBRON JAMES AND KEVIN DURANT DRAFT
TEAM ROSTERS FOR 2021 NBA ALL-STAR GAME

– Team LeBron: Drafts Giannis Antetokounmpo No. 1 Overall;
Stephen Curry, Luka Dončić and Nikola Jokić Complete Starting Lineup –

– Team Durant: Drafts Kyrie Irving No. 2 Overall;
Joel Embiid, Kawhi Leonard, Bradley Beal and Jayson Tatum Complete Starting Lineup –

– Team LeBron to Play for Thurgood Marshall College Fund;
Team Durant to Play for UNCF (United Negro College Fund) –

NEW YORK, March 4, 2021 – Captains LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers and Kevin Durant of the Brooklyn Nets have selected the team rosters for the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, which will be played on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The rosters for Team LeBron and Team Durant were revealed tonight in TNT’s presentation of the NBA All-Star Draft.

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo was selected by James with the first overall pick in the NBA All-Star Draft. Joining Antetokounmpo and James as Team LeBron starters are Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Dončić and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić. Team LeBron’s reserves are Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard, Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons, Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul, Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown, LA Clippers forward Paul George, Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis and Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert.

Nets guard Kyrie Irving was drafted by Durant with the second overall pick in the NBA All-Star Draft. In addition to Irving, Durant selected 76ers center Joel Embiid, Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal and Celtics forward Jayson Tatum as starters. Tatum, voted to the NBA All-Star Game as a reserve, was drafted with the starters as a replacement for Durant, who is unable to play in the game.

The reserves drafted by Durant are Nets guard James Harden, Suns guard Devin Booker, New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson, Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine, New York Knicks forward Julius Randle, Orlando Magic center Nikola Vučević and Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell. Lakers forward Anthony Davis, unable to play in the NBA All-Star Game, has been assigned to Team Durant because the player who replaced him (Booker) was selected by Team Durant.

The 70^th NBA All-Star Game will air on TNT and ESPN Radio as part of NBA All-Star 2021, which will take place on one night. TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage on March 7 will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage on TNT will begin at 8 p.m. ET, and AT&T Slam Dunk will take place at halftime. NBA All-Star 2021 will reach fans in 215 countries and territories in more than 50 languages.

In the NBA All-Star Draft, James and Durant drafted the team rosters from the pool of players voted as starters and reserves in each conference. The two captains selected the starters in the first round and the reserves in the second round, making their picks without regard to a player’s conference affiliation or position.

As the top overall finisher in fan voting, James was awarded the first pick in the first round. Durant made the first pick in the second round. The captains alternated picks in each round, with Durant getting the final two picks in the first round, which had nine players instead of eight because of Tatum’s addition.

As part of the NBA All-Star Game format, the two teams will compete to win each quarter for their respective beneficiaries. Team LeBron will play for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Team Durant will play for UNCF (United Negro College Fund), with both organizations providing scholarship funding to further the higher education of students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

A total of $1.75 million will be contributed to the two organizations. Each organization will receive an initial $500,000 contribution. At the end of each of the first three quarters, an additional $150,000 will be awarded to the leading team’s organization – totaling $450,000 for those three quarters. A remaining $300,000 will be awarded to the organization of the team that wins the NBA All-Star Game. The winner of the NBA All-Star Game will be the first team to reach or surpass the Final Target Score.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver will select the replacement for any player unable to participate in the All-Star Game, naming a player from the same conference as the player who is being replaced. The player who is named as a replacement would join the team that drafted the replaced player. If a replaced player is a starter, the head coach of that team would name a new starter from his team’s group of reserves. Jazz head coach Quin Snyder will lead Team LeBron, and 76ers head coach Doc Rivers will guide Team Durant.

Below are the 2021 NBA All-Star Draft results and the 2021 NBA All-Star Game rosters.

TEAM LEBRON

Player (Team)

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Birthdate

Prior to NBA/

Home Country

ASG Selections

Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee)*

6-11

250

12/06/94

Filathlitikos/Greece

Jaylen Brown (Boston)

6-6

223

10/24/96

California/USA

Stephen Curry (Golden State)*

6-3

193

03/14/88

Davidson/USA

Luka Dončić (Dallas)*

6-7

230

02/28/99

Real Madrid/Slovenia

Paul George (LA Clippers)

6-8

220

05/02/90

Fresno State/USA

Rudy Gobert (Utah)

7-1

258

06/26/92

Cholet Basket/France

LeBron James (L.A. Lakers)*#

6-9

250

12/30/84

St. Vincent-St. Mary HS/USA

Nikola Jokić (Denver)*

7-0

284

02/19/95

Mega Basket/Serbia

Damian Lillard (Portland)

6-2

195

07/15/90

Weber State/USA

Chris Paul (Phoenix)

6-0

175

05/06/85

Wake Forest/USA

Domantas Sabonis (Indiana)+

6-11

240

05/03/96

Gonzaga/Lithuania

Ben Simmons (Philadelphia)

6-11

240

07/20/96

LSU/Australia

Head Coach: Quin Snyder (Utah)

*Starter
#Captain
+Injury Replacement

TEAM DURANT

Player (Team)

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Birthdate

Prior to NBA/

Home Country

ASG Selections

Bradley Beal (Washington)*

6-3

207

06/28/93

Florida/USA

Devin Booker (Phoenix)+

6-5

206

10/30/96

Kentucky/USA

Anthony Davis (L.A. Lakers)^

6-10

253

03/11/93

Kentucky/USA

Kevin Durant (Brooklyn)*#^

6-10

225

09/29/88

Texas/USA

Joel Embiid (Philadelphia)*

7-0

280

03/16/94

Kansas/Cameroon

James Harden (Brooklyn)

6-5

220

08/26/89

Arizona State/USA

Kyrie Irving (Brooklyn)*

6-2

199

03/23/92

Duke/Australia

Zach LaVine (Chicago)

6-5

202

03/10/95

UCLA/USA

Kawhi Leonard (LA Clippers)*

6-7

225

06/29/91

San Diego State/USA

Donovan Mitchell (Utah)

6-1

215

09/07/96

Louisville/USA

Julius Randle (New York)

6-9

254

11/29/94

Kentucky/USA

Jayson Tatum (Boston)~

6-8

210

03/03/98

Duke/USA

Nikola Vučević (Orlando)

6-11

260

10/24/90

USC/Montenegro

Zion Williamson (New Orleans)

6-7

284

07/06/00

Duke/USA

Head Coach: Doc Rivers (Philadelphia)

*Starter
#Captain
^Injured/Will Not Play
+Injury Replacement
~Starter Replacement

# # #

ORLANDO’S CARTER-WILLIAMS, ROSS FINED

NEW YORK, March 4, 2021 – Orlando Magic guard Michael Carter-Williams and guard-forward Terrence Ross have each been fined $15,000 for verbal abuse of game officials and failing to leave the court in a timely manner, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.

The incident occurred at the conclusion of the Magic’s 115-112 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on March 3 at Amway Center.

NBA All-Star Game Presentation to Feature HBCU-Inspired Elements on Broadcast and In-Arena

This weekend, the NBA will highlight and pay tribute to the vital role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) at NBA All-Star 2021 with HBCU-inspired elements incorporated on broadcast and in-arena on Sunday, March 7 from State Farm Arena in Atlanta. In addition to music, content and storytelling, the league will spotlight HBCU students and alumni through the Michelob Ultra Courtside virtual fan experience, student artwork, in-arena activations, merchandise and partnerships.

As previously announced, the NBA All-Star Game and skills competitions will take place on the same night for the first time. TNT’s coverage will begin at 5 p.m. ET, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. Team captains LeBron James and Kevin Durant will select their All-Star teams tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET on TNT for the NBA All-Star Draft Show presented by Nike.

All-Star Court

The game court for NBA All-Star 2021 will represent both the academic significance as well as the incredible pride and school spirit of HBCUs and their students. The court design – created in collaboration with HBCU alumni from various schools – is vibrant and energetic, incorporating icons representing the best of HBCU academics, music and campus life while connecting back to the celebration of the game at center court.

Virtual Fans

Three hundred frontline workers and HBCU students will be invited to virtually attend NBA All-Star 2021 through Michelob ULTRA Courtside, the game’s virtual fan experience. Various VIP guests will join the frontline workers and HBCU students in this special co-viewing experience. In partnership with Anheuser-Busch and the Anheuser-Busch Foundation, who together have contributed more than $5 million to UNCF to support educational programs and scholarships for students attending HBCUs, the Michelob ULTRA Courtside experience will give fans the ability to virtually interact with each other and access to special reaction graphics that will be visible on their screens to those inside State Farm Arena

HBCU Student Artwork

Seven artists who currently attend HBCUs will have their custom artwork displayed in-arena, at the players’ hotel, on the broadcast and across NBA social platforms ahead of and during NBA All-Star 2021. The seven students, who represent Howard University, Albany State University and Florida A&M University, respectively, created HBCU-inspired art with different themes. Five of the artists have been invited as virtual fans for the game, while two will attend in-arena.

NBA Referees

This year, the All-Star Game officiating crew will be comprised of three proud HBCU alumni. Norfolk State graduate Tom Washington, in his 30th season, will be officiating his third All-Star Game; Southern University graduate Courtney Kirkland, in his 21st season, will make his second All-Star appearance; and Clark Atlanta University graduate Tony Brown, in his 19th season, will be a part of his second All-Star Game crew.

In-Arena Fans

We have invited nearly 1500 frontline workers, community partners and HBCU alumni, students and faculty to attend NBA All-Star 2021 at the State Farm Arena on Sunday, March 7. Seating will be socially-distanced throughout the arena in groupings of two-to-four people from the same household in accordance with the League Health & Safety protocols.

Broadcast and Production Elements

As part of the game production, 58 cameras will be positioned around the arena, including in the practice court and locker room. Courtside Cam and Super Cam will bring fans closer to the game through unique angles from courtside and above the baseline. Select players, coaches and the referee crew chief will be mic’d up throughout the night, providing fans the opportunity to hear exclusive on-the-court action.

TNT will exclusively televise NBA All-Star 2021 where HBCUs will be honored throughout the broadcast with features, interviews, tributes and musical performances. Coverage will include

segments highlighting notable celebrity HBCU alumni and vignettes spotlighting members of the

NBA family, including league staff, referees, current players and NBA legends who attended HBCUs.

NBA League Pass will air all NBA All-Star 2021 events internationally.

Oncourt Player Interviews

During Sunday’s events, players will conduct their oncourt interviews wearing Beats custom headphones, designed by Elijah Rutland, a participant in the “Beats Black Creator” program and a student at Florida A&M University. Throughout the last ten years, Beats has become a leading storyteller in sport, music and culture. And as the brand continues to expand their breadth of content, Beats has partnered with Black creatives at HBCUs to give them a blank canvas to do what they do best, create. NBA All-Star 2021 participants will additionally receive a set of the Beats custom headphones featuring Elijah’s designs.

Jersey Patches

For the fourth consecutive season (since NBA All-Star 2017), Jordan Brand will outfit the league’s brightest stars during the 2021 NBA All-Star Game in Atlanta. The All-Star uniforms will feature jersey patches celebrating the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and UNCF. As previously announced, both organizations are among the NBA All-Star 2021 beneficiaries. Additionally, UNCF is a key strategic partner of the Jordan Wings program in the U.S and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund is a NIKE, Inc. grant recipient which supports scholarships at HBCUs.

HBCU Retail Merchandise

The NBA partnered with two minority-owned organizations – PUPIL Apparel and Support Black Colleges (SBC) – to create NBA All-Star merchandise that celebrates HBCUs. PUPIL, a 100% minority-owned licensee, is selling 2021 NBA All-Star and HBCU co-branded hoodies and t-shirts, with all NBA proceeds from the sales donated directly to participating HBCUs. The items are available for purchase through Pupilapparel.com, Atlanta Hawks retail and online stores, and NBAStore.com. SBC, founded by two Howard University graduates, is selling an official 2021 NBA All-Star t-shirt that will be available for retail on SupportBlackColleges.org and Atlanta Hawks. All NBA proceeds will be donated to a The Social Change Fund. NBA players and head coaches participating in 2021 NBA All-Star will additionally receive SBC custom 2021 NBA All-Star hoodies. The hoodies for All-Star starters and reserves will feature the respective player’s career accolades adorned on the sleeve (not for sale).

Performances

As previously announced, Clark Atlanta University Philharmonic Society Choir will perform an original rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” prior to tip-off and will be introduced by three-time GRAMMY® Award-winner and FAMU alumnus Common. In addition, the nationally-recognized Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band and Florida A&M University Marching 100 will play during NBA All-Star player introductions from their respective historical campuses.

Throughout the game, the Brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity - Sigma Alpha Chapter at Southern University and the Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity - Alpha Rho Chapter at Morehouse College, who are members of the Divine Nine fraternities and sororities – a prestigious group of nine historically Black Greek letter organizations – will introduce their respective step teams from Southern University and Morehouse College.

GRAMMY Award-winner Anthony Hamilton will perform his song “Fine Again” in recognition of frontline workers and everyone affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for the NBA Cares tribute.

NBA Family’s $3 Million Commitment

As previously announced, the NBA family will collectively provide more than $3 million in initial support to the HBCU community through the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), UNCF (United Negro College Fund), National Association for Equal Opportunity (NAFEO) and Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity. As part of this year’s game format, the two teams will play for either TMCF (comprised of 47 publicly-supported HBCUs) or UNCF (consisting of 37 member colleges) as their respective All-Star beneficiary, which will provide scholarship funding to further HBCU students’ higher education. More information around the format of the All-Star Game, skills competitions and additional elements that will support HBCUs are available here.

ZION WILLIAMSON AND JA MORANT LEAD 2021 NBA RISING STARS ROSTERS

– Two-Time Reigning Kia NBA Rookies of the Month LaMelo Ball and Tyrese Haliburton
Join Williamson and Morant on U.S. Team Roster –

– RJ Barrett (Canada) and Rui Hachimura (Japan) Headline World Team Roster –

NEW YORK, March 3, 2021 – NBA All-Star Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans and 2019-20 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies lead the list of 20 players selected by NBA assistant coaches for the 2021 NBA Rising Stars rosters, which were revealed today on NBA Top Shot.

NBA Rising Stars, the league’s annual showcase of premier young talent during NBA All-Star, will not be played this year due to the limitation of having All-Star events all on one night. To recognize deserving players, the NBA kept the custom of having the league’s assistant coaches vote for Rising Stars rosters, which comprise 10 first- and second-year NBA players from the United States (U.S. Team) and 10 first- and second-year NBA players from outside the United States (World Team).

Williamson and Morant lead a U.S. Team roster with 10 players from 10 different teams. Joining Williamson and Morant are Charlotte Hornets guard and two-time reigning Kia NBA Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month LaMelo Ball; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards; Sacramento Kings guard and two-time reigning Kia NBA Western Conference Rookie of the Month Tyrese Haliburton; Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro; Atlanta Hawks forward De'Andre Hunter; San Antonio Spurs guard/forward Keldon Johnson; Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr.; and Golden State Warriors center James Wiseman.

Six countries are represented on the World Team roster, including five players from Canada. The World Team is composed of Heat forward Precious Achiuwa (Nigeria); Pelicans guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Canada); Washington Wizards forwards Deni Avdija (Israel) and Rui Hachimura (Japan); New York Knicks guard/forward RJ Barrett (Canada); Nuggets guard Facundo Campazzo (Argentina); Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (Canada); Oklahoma City Thunder guards Luguentz Dort (Canada) and Théo Maledon (France); and Warriors guard Mychal Mulder (Canada).

In voting for the Rising Stars rosters, assistant coaches selected four frontcourt players, four guards and two additional players at any position for each team. Voters selected a minimum of three first-year NBA players and three second-year NBA players for each team. The assistant coaches were not permitted to vote for any player on their team. Each of the league’s 30 teams submitted one ballot per coaching staff.

The World Team includes five players who participated as campers in Basketball Without Borders (BWB), the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball and development community outreach program: Avdija (BWB Europe 2018; BWB Global 2019), Barrett (BWB Global 2017), Campazzo (BWB Americas 2009), Dort (BWB Global 2017) and Hachimura (BWB Global 2016).

NBA opening-night rosters for the 2020-21 season featured 107 international players from 41 countries, marking the seventh consecutive season that opening-night rosters had at least 100 international players. A record nine international players have been named NBA All-Stars this season, including a record five international players voted to start the All-Star Game and a record six All-Star selections from Europe.

Below are the 2021 NBA Rising Stars rosters.

U.S. TEAM ROSTER

Player (Team)

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Birthdate

Prior to NBA

Exp.

LaMelo Ball (Charlotte)

6-6

181

08/22/01

Illawarra

Anthony Edwards (Minnesota)

6-4

225

08/05/01

Georgia

Tyrese Haliburton (Sacramento)

6-5

175

02/29/00

Iowa State

Tyler Herro (Miami)

6-5

200

01/20/00

Kentucky

De'Andre Hunter (Atlanta)

6-8

225

12/02/97

Virginia

Keldon Johnson (San Antonio)

G/F

6-6

210

10/11/99

Kentucky

Ja Morant (Memphis)

6-3

175

08/10/99

Murray State

Michael Porter Jr. (Denver)

6-10

218

06/29/98

Missouri

Zion Williamson (New Orleans)

6-7

284

07/06/00

Duke

James Wiseman (Golden State)

7-0

244

03/31/01

Memphis

WORLD TEAM ROSTER

Prior to NBA/

Player (Team)

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Birthdate

Home Country

Exp.

Precious Achiuwa (Miami)

6-8

235

09/19/99

Memphis/Nigeria

Nickeil Alexander-Walker (New Orleans)

6-6

205

09/02/98

Virginia Tech/Canada

Deni Avdija (Washington)

6-9

210

01/03/01

Maccabi Tel Aviv/Israel

RJ Barrett (New York)

G/F

6-6

210

06/14/00

Duke/Canada

Facundo Campazzo (Denver)

5-11

165

03/23/91

Real Madrid/Argentina

Brandon Clarke (Memphis)

6-8

210

09/19/96

Gonzaga/Canada

Luguentz Dort (Oklahoma City)

6-3

215

04/19/99

Arizona State/Canada

Rui Hachimura (Washington)

6-8

230

02/08/98

Gonzaga/Japan

Théo Maledon (Oklahoma City)

6-4

180

06/12/01

ASVEL/France

Mychal Mulder (Golden State)

6-4

193

06/12/94

Kentucky/Canada

# # #

MORE THAN $3 MILLION TO BE DONATED IN INITIAL SUPPORT OF HBCUs AND COMMUNITIES OF COLOR IMPACTED BY COVID-19 AS PART OF NBA ALL-STAR 2021

– HBCUs, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, United Negro College Fund, National Association for Equal Opportunity and Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity Named NBA All-Star 2021 Beneficiaries –

NEW YORK, March 3, 2021 – As part of NBA All-Star 2021, the NBA today announced additional details regarding the NBA family’s collective support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and communities of color disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. As previously announced, the NBA family, including partners AT&T, MTN DEW®, State Farm® and Taco Bell®, will collectively provide more than $3 million in initial support to the HBCU community through the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), UNCF (United Negro College Fund), National Association for Equal Opportunity (NAFEO) and Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity.

Through contributions and awareness, the NBA family will further the urgent and longstanding work and traditions of these organizations and institutions to create greater educational, financial and health equity. During the past year, public health data has made clear that the cumulative effect of historic racial and economic inequities in our country have worsened the impact of the pandemic on communities of color and predominately Black institutions. HBCUs – which produce 20 percent of the country's Black college graduates but only account for three percent of all colleges in the United States – were particularly impacted by COVID-19, experiencing drastic declines in funding and enrollment. To learn more about how the NBA All-Star beneficiaries and public and private institutions are addressing these inequities and meeting the needs of the communities they serve, please visit NBA.com.

Below is more information regarding the format and beneficiaries of the All-Star Game, skills competitions and additional elements:

NBA All-Star Game: as part of this year’s game format, the two teams will play for either TMCF (comprised of 47 publicly-supported HBCUs) or UNCF (consisting of 37 member colleges) as their respective All-Star beneficiary, which will provide scholarship funding to further HBCU students’ higher education.
- Each organization will receive an initial $500,000 contribution, with a total of $1.75 million contributed between the organizations.
- At the end of each of the first three quarters, an additional $150,000 will be awarded to the leading team’s selected organization – totaling $450,000 for those three quarters.
- A remaining $300,000 will be awarded to the team’s organization that first reaches the Final Target Score in the untimed fourth quarter.

AT&T Slam Dunk: through the TMCF COVID-19 HBCU Emergency Fund, the three AT&T Slam Dunk contestants will be paired with an HBCU to provide financial support that will benefit students, faculty or programs that address emergency aid, technology needs, food insecurities and mental health services exacerbated by the pandemic. Each HBCU represented by the players will receive a $50,000 donation toward their respective school, with the winner earning an additional $100,000. AT&T will also provide a $100,000 contribution for the three dunkers – $40,000 for the winner and $30,000 for each runner-up – and donate $5,000, or “5Gs,” representative of their nationwide 5G network, toward HBCU student initiatives through TMCF for every dunk during the NBA All-Star Game. AT&T also collaborates with HBCUs on various programs, including the HBCU Future Leaders Program and AT&T HBCU Innovation Challenge, to help eliminate racial bias found in the development of today’s technologies, increase education, skills building and career readiness opportunities in Black and other underserved communities.

Taco Bell® Skills Challenge: as part of the Taco Bell® Skills Challenge, the six participants will represent HBCU schools and students from a selected state. An initial donation of $35,000 will be given to students and institutions in each state through UNCF’s Emergency Student Aid program, which provides financial assistance for food and housing, emergency hardship and retention and degree completion to HBCU students. The winning Skills Challenge participant will earn an additional $40,000 to assist with critical financial support to HBCU schools and students from their selected state. Additionally, two HBCU students who are part of the Taco Bell® Foundation’s Live Más Scholarship will be recognized during All-Star for using their passion to ignite change in their communities.

MTN DEW® 3-Point Contest: during the MTN DEW® 3-Point Contest, every “Moneyball” shot made will yield a $3,500 donation, while “MTN DEW® Zone” shots will be worth $5,000 and benefit Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity, which addresses gap funding for COVID-19 relief efforts in diverse communities throughout the country. In addition, MTN DEW® – the official soft drink of the NBA – will award $100,000 in newly-created MTN DEW® All-Star Scholarships to two students from PepsiCo partner HBCUs during the 3-Point Contest broadcast. As part of PepsiCo’s multi-year Racial Equality Journey commitment to support the advancement of the Black community, MTN DEW® developed the MTN DEW® All-Star Scholarship Fund for students from HBCUs who embody the brand’s ideals of passion and commitment to make a difference in the sports industry. MTN DEW® believes in the power of doing and instigating more diversity and inclusion in the sports industry.

The Goodr NBA All-Star Grocery Pop-Up presented by Kaiser Permanente: in partnership with Kaiser Permanente, Goodr will create full-service grocery stores in 16 communities across metro Atlanta, offering free groceries and household items to senior citizens, families, frontline workers, teachers and school staff.

State Farm Assist Tracker: the State Farm Assist Tracker will return for its sixth consecutive All-Star game as part of the season-long commitment from State Farm to turn on-the-court assists into real-life assists in communities across the country. For every assist on the court during this year's NBA All-Star Game, State Farm will donate $1,900 – reflective of the more than 19,000 local State Farm agents – toward scholarship funding through the UNCF.

Kia MVP: this year, Kia will donate an all-new, 2021 Sorento SUV to the NBA All-Star Game MVP’s team beneficiary.

The NBPA will also use the platform, influence and impact of All-Star to increase education around the importance of HBCUs and continue their longstanding engagement and support of these institutions. For the past three years, the union has hosted the NBPA Top 50 camps featuring twenty-five of the best players from the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) for on-court skill development and leadership and life skills sessions off the court led by current and retired NBA players. Additionally, the NBPA Foundation has continued to support HBCU student-athletes through summer school scholarship resources that help facilitate the path to graduation goals for the past two years, including this past year for those who have been particularly impacted by COVID-19.

Throughout the night, HBCUs will be showcased through special performances, unique content and storytelling, and the NBA family will also continue education and awareness efforts around important public health and safety communications. Coverage of the 70^th NBA All-Star Game will begin at 5 p.m. ET on TNT. Click here for a full schedule of TNT’s coverage of the NBA All-Star Game and skills competitions.

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CARLA CORTIJO ES LA NUEVA DIRECTORA DE OPERACIONES

COMUNICADO DE PRENSA
2 de marzo 2021

El Baloncesto Superior Nacional Femenino (BSNF) celebró hoy una conferencia de Prensa virtual para presentar a la exjugadora Carla Cortijo como la nueva Directora de Operaciones del organismo y al Lic. Rafael J. Otero Díaz como Director de Torneo.

“Hace unas cuantas semanas el anterior Director de Torneo, René Morales, decidió abandonar el puesto por compromisos profesionales que ya llevaba un tiempo desarrollando y eso nos brindó la oportunidad de añadir al Lic. Rafael Otero como nuevo Director de Torneo”, explicó Luis G. Miranda Ramos, Director General del BSNF. “(Carla) se ganó por derecho propio ser integrada a la estructura de la Liga Femenina. Estará con nosotros trabajando una nueva imagen, la televisión, el área de creatividad, futuras alianzas con otras ligas del mundo y todas las cosas nuevas que podamos integrar”.

Cortijo, quien se retiró en el 2018 tras ganar varios campeonatos con las Gigantes de Carolina en el BSNF, dijo estar agradecida con Miranda Ramos y los apoderados por el nombramiento.

“Voy a trabajar intensamente para que el BSNF regrese este 2021 por todo lo alto. Es una responsabilidad mía, de Gaby, Otero, de todos aquí para que esta Liga siga creciendo y mejorando. Y, es bien importante para mí que más mujeres se sigan incorporando al BSNF. Sé que esta Liga va a llegar al nivel máximo, igual que yo siempre busqué y logré como jugadora”, manifestó la primera puertorriqueña desarrollada en la Isla en jugar WNBA.

Otero sustituye a René Morales que estuvo en el puesto desde la temporada 2016.

“Acepto con mucha humildad y mucho compromiso el llamado que me hizo Luis Gabriel. Yo llevo muchos años relacionado con la Liga. Fui agente y representé jugadoras nativas como refuerzos. Colaboré con varios apoderados en la confección de los equipos y en otras facetas que no están públicamente comunicadas, pero siempre he estado ahí”, dijo Otero.

NBA ALL-STARS LUKA DONČIĆ AND CHRIS PAUL HEADLINE
2021 TACO BELL^® SKILLS CHALLENGE

– NBA All-Stars Julius Randle, Domantas Sabonis and Nikola Vučević in Six-Player Field –

– HBCU Alum Robert Covington to Make Skills Challenge Debut –

– Competition to Take Place on Sunday, March 7 Before 2021 NBA All-Star Game –

NEW YORK, March 2, 2021 – NBA All-Stars Luka Dončić of the Dallas Mavericks and Chris Paul of the Phoenix Suns will display their vast array of talents in the 2021 Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge will take place before the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, airing on TNT.

Joining Dončić and Paul as 2021 NBA All-Stars in the field are New York Knicks forward Julius Randle, Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis and Orlando Magic center Nikola Vučević. The six-player competition also features Portland Trail Blazers forward Robert Covington.

The 19^th Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge is an obstacle-course competition that tests players’ dribbling, passing, agility and 3-point shooting skills. The event is part of NBA All-Star 2021, which will take place on one night. TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage on March 7 will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage will begin at 8 p.m. ET, with AT&T Slam Dunk taking place at halftime.

Dončić, who was named an NBA All-Star Game starter for the second year in a row, joins Sabonis (the 2020 runner-up) and Vučević as second-time participants in the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge. Paul, an NBA All-Star selection for the 11^th time, will make his record fifth appearance in the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and his first since 2011. Randle and Covington will make their event debuts.

Covington is in his eighth NBA season after not being selected in the 2013 NBA Draft. In the 2017-18 season, he was selected to the NBA All-Defensive First Team and ranked 11^th in the league in 3-pointers made (203). Covington attended Tennessee State, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Nashville, Tenn. As part of NBA All-Star 2021, the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association will commit more than $2.5 million in funds and resources toward HBCUs and support and awareness around equity and access to COVID-19 care, relief and vaccines. On March 7, the league will also pay tribute to the vital role of HBCUs through music, content and storytelling.

The Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge is a three-round competition with a single-elimination tournament format. Two players will compete simultaneously on an identical course and the winner of each head-to-head matchup will advance to the next round. Two of the six participants, as chosen by the NBA, will receive a bye in the first round and automatically advance to the second round. First-round matchups will be announced at a later date. Click here for a complete explanation of the rules.

Below are the participants for the 2021 Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and a list of previous winners.

2021 TACO BELL^®SKILLS CHALLENGE PARTICIPANTS
Player	Team	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.
Robert Covington	Portland Trail Blazers	F	6-7	209
Luka Dončić	Dallas Mavericks	G	6-7	230
Chris Paul	Phoenix Suns	G	6-0	175
Julius Randle	New York Knicks	F	6-9	254
Domantas Sabonis	Indiana Pacers	F	6-11	240
Nikola Vučević	Orlando Magic	C	6-11	260

TACO BELL^® SKILLS CHALLENGE WINNERS

2003 – Jason Kidd, New Jersey

2004 – Baron Davis, New Orleans

2005 – Steve Nash, Phoenix

2006 – Dwyane Wade, Miami

2007 – Dwyane Wade, Miami

2008 – Deron Williams, Utah

2009 – Derrick Rose, Chicago

2010 – Steve Nash, Phoenix

2011 – Stephen Curry, Golden State

2012 – Tony Parker, San Antonio

2013 – Damian Lillard, Portland

2014 – Trey Burke, Utah and Damian Lillard, Portland

2015 – Patrick Beverley, Houston

2016 – Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota

2017 – Kristaps Porzingis, New York

2018 – Spencer Dinwiddie, Brooklyn

2019 – Jayson Tatum, Boston

2020 – Bam Adebayo, Miami

About Taco Bell Corp.

For more information about Taco Bell, visit our website at www.TacoBell.com/news or at www.TacoBell.com/popular-links. You can also stay up to date on all things Taco Bell by following us on Facebook, Instagram, Taco Bell’s Twitter, Taco Bell News’ Twitter, TikTok and subscribing to our YouTube channel. For updates on how Taco Bell is navigating COVID-19, click here.

PAST CHAMPIONS DEVIN BOOKER AND STEPHEN CURRY LEAD
SIX NBA ALL-STARS IN 2021 MTN DEW^® 3-POINT CONTEST

– Jaylen Brown, Zach LaVine, Donovan Mitchell and Jayson Tatum in Field,
Composed Entirely of 2021 NBA All-Stars –

– MTN DEW^® Zone Returns: Two Deep Shots Located 6 Feet Behind 3-Point Line
Worth Three Points Each –

– Competition to Take Place on Sunday, March 7 Before 2021 NBA All-Star Game –

NEW YORK, March 2, 2021 – Former 3-Point Contest champions Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors lead a field composed entirely of current NBA All-Stars who will participate in the 2021 MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The competition will take place before the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, airing on TNT.

The six-player field for the 35^th MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest also features 2021 NBA All-Stars Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls and Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz. This marks the first 3-Point Contest in which each participant is a current NBA All-Star.

MTN DEW returns as the title partner of the 3-Point Contest as part of PepsiCo and the NBA’s multiyear marketing partnership renewal. In addition, MTN DEW will award $100,000 in newly created MTN DEW Scholarships to two students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities during the 3-Point Contest broadcast.

The MTN DEW 3-Point Contest is a two-round, timed shooting competition at NBA All-Star 2021, which will take place on one night. TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage on March 7 will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage will begin at 8 p.m. ET, with AT&T Slam Dunk taking place at halftime. NBA All-Star 2021 will reach fans in 215 countries and territories in more than 50 languages.

Booker, the 2018 MTN DEW 3-Point Contest champion, will make his fifth appearance in the event. Curry, the 2015 champion, will compete for the seventh time, tying Dale Ellis for the second-most appearances behind Craig Hodges (eight). A seven-time NBA All-Star, Curry has made a league-high 164 3-pointers this season. He holds the NBA single-season record for 3-pointers made (402 in 2015-16) and ranks second in career 3-pointers made (2,659).

LaVine and Mitchell are both former AT&T Slam Dunk champions. No player has ever won both the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest and AT&T Slam Dunk in a career. LaVine will compete in the 3-Point Contest for the second year in a row. This marks the event debut for Mitchell. Brown and Tatum are also first-time participants in the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest.

For the second consecutive year, the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest will feature the “MTN DEW Zone” – two deep shot locations positioned equidistant between the traditional racks at the top of the 3-point arc and the adjacent “wing” rack. Each of the two ball pedestals in the MTN DEW Zone is located 6 feet behind the 3-point line and holds one special green ball, the “3-Ball.” Shots made with the green ball are worth three points.

In addition to the two shots in the MTN DEW Zone, the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest will have five main shooting locations – four racks containing four official NBA game balls (each worth one point) and one multicolored “money” ball (worth two points), as well as one special “all money ball” rack. Every ball on the all money ball rack, which each participant can place at any of the five traditional shooting locations, is worth two points.

Each competitor will have 70 seconds (1:10) to shoot as many as the 27 balls as he can, with a maximum possible score of 40 points in a round. The three competitors with the highest scores in the first round will advance to the championship round. The player with the highest score in the championship round will win the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest. Click here for a complete explanation of the rules and a diagram showing the location of the MTN DEW Zone.

Below are the participants for the 2021 MTN DEW 3-Point Contest and a list of previous winners.

2021 MTN DEW^® 3-POINT CONTEST PARTICIPANTS
					*2020-21 Season*
Player	Team	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	3PM	3PA	3P%
Devin Booker	Phoenix Suns	G	6-5	206	61	166	36.7
Jaylen Brown	Boston Celtics	G	6-6	223	72	187	38.5
Stephen Curry	Golden State Warriors	G	6-3	193	164	397	41.3
Zach LaVine	Chicago Bulls	G	6-5	202	116	268	43.3
Donovan Mitchell	Utah Jazz	G	6-1	215	108	284	38.0
Jayson Tatum	Boston Celtics	F	6-8	210	77	209	36.8
				Stats through games of March 1

MTN DEW^® 3-POINT CONTEST WINNERS

1986 – Larry Bird, Boston

1987 – Larry Bird, Boston

1988 – Larry Bird, Boston

1989 – Dale Ellis, Seattle

1990 – Craig Hodges, Chicago

1991 – Craig Hodges, Chicago

1992 – Craig Hodges, Chicago

1993 – Mark Price, Cleveland

1994 – Mark Price, Cleveland

1995 – Glen Rice, Miami

1996 – Tim Legler, Washington

1997 – Steve Kerr, Chicago

1998 – Jeff Hornacek, Utah

2000 – Jeff Hornacek, Utah

2001 – Ray Allen, Milwaukee

2002 – Peja Stojakovic, Sacramento

2003 – Peja Stojakovic, Sacramento

2004 – Voshon Lenard, Denver

2005 – Quentin Richardson, Phoenix

2006 – Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas

2007 – Jason Kapono, Miami

2008 – Jason Kapono, Toronto

2009 – Daequan Cook, Miami

2010 – Paul Pierce, Boston

2011 – James Jones, Miami

2012 – Kevin Love, Minnesota

2013 – Kyrie Irving, Cleveland

2014 – Marco Belinelli, San Antonio

2015 – Stephen Curry, Golden State

2016 – Klay Thompson, Golden State

2017 – Eric Gordon, Houston

2018 – Devin Booker, Phoenix

2019 – Joe Harris, Brooklyn

2020 – Buddy Hield, Sacramento

About MTN DEW

MOUNTAIN DEW^®, a product of PepsiCo North America Beverages, is the No. 1 flavored carbonated soft drink in the U.S. With its one-of-a-kind citrus taste, MOUNTAIN DEW exhilarates and quenches with every sip. In addition to the original MOUNTAIN DEW and DIET MOUNTAIN DEW^®, the permanent DEW^® product line includes MTN DEW^® KICKSTART™, MOUNTAIN DEW CODE RED^®, MOUNTAIN DEW VOLTAGE^®, MTN DEW^® ZERO SUGAR, new MTN DEW MAJOR MELON™ and MTN DEW MAJOR MELON™ ZERO SUGAR. For more information, check out www.mountaindew.com, www.facebook.com/mountaindew or follow on Twitter @mountaindew.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $70 billion in net revenue in 2020, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker, Tropicana and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 23 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Convenient Foods and Beverages by Winning with Purpose. “Winning with Purpose” reflects our ambition to win sustainably in the marketplace and embed purpose into all aspects of our business strategy and brands. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com.

# # #

ANFERNEE SIMONS, CASSIUS STANLEY AND OBI TOPPIN
TO TAKE FLIGHT IN 2021 AT&T SLAM DUNK

– Competition to Take Place on Sunday, March 7 at Halftime of 2021 NBA All-Star Game –

– Five Past Slam Dunk Champions to Serve as Judges: Dee Brown, Jason Richardson,

Josh Smith, Spud Webb and Dominique Wilkins –

– Final Round: One Dunk for Each Finalist and Winner Determined by “Judges’ Choice”
Instead of Individual Score –

NEW YORK, March 2, 2021 – A new AT&T Slam Dunk champion will be crowned this year as first-time participants Anfernee Simons of the Portland Trail Blazers, Cassius Stanley of the Indiana Pacers and Obi Toppin of the New York Knicks compete for the title on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The 36^th AT&T Slam Dunk will take place at halftime of the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, airing on TNT and ESPN Radio.

AT&T Slam Dunk is part of NBA All-Star 2021, which will be held on one night. TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage on March 7 will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell^® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW^® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage will begin at 8 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star 2021 will reach fans in 215 countries and territories in more than 50 languages.

Simons (pronounced SIGH-mons) is averaging 8.2 points and shooting a career-high 40.7 percent from three-point range in his third NBA season. The 6-3 guard was selected by Portland with the 24^th pick in NBA Draft 2018 presented by State Farm.

Stanley, a 6-5 rookie guard on a two-way contract, was selected by the Pacers with the 54^th pick in NBA Draft 2020 presented by State Farm. He recorded a maximum vertical leap of 44 inches in the 2020 NBA Draft Combine, tied for the third-highest mark since 2000.

Toppin, a 6-9 rookie forward, was selected by the Knicks with the eighth pick in NBA Draft 2020 presented by State Farm. As a redshirt sophomore at the University of Dayton last season, Toppin led the nation in dunks and was named the consensus National Player of the Year.

Led by Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins, five past AT&T Slam Dunk champions will serve as the judges. Wilkins (1985 and 1990 champion) will be joined by Dee Brown (1991), Jason Richardson (2002 and 2003), Josh Smith (2005) and Spud Webb (1986). Wilkins, Smith and Webb won their Slam Dunk titles while representing the Atlanta Hawks. Richardson won the last Slam Dunk competition in Atlanta, in 2003.

AT&T Slam Dunk will be a two-round competition. In the first round, the three competitors will perform two dunks each. The five judges will score each dunk on a scale of 6 to 10, resulting in a maximum score of 50 and a minimum score of 30. The two players with the highest combined score for their two dunks (a maximum of 100 and a minimum of 60) will advance to the final round.

In the final round, the two competitors will perform one dunk each. The winner will be determined by “Judges’ Choice” instead of individual score. The judges will choose the winner by raising a card that has the dunker’s name on it. Click here for a complete explanation of the rules for AT&T Slam Dunk.

Below are the participants for the 2021 AT&T Slam Dunk and a list of previous winners.

2021 AT&T SLAM DUNK PARTICIPANTS
Player	Team	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.
Anfernee Simons	Portland Trail Blazers	G	6-3	181
Cassius Stanley	Indiana Pacers	G	6-5	193
Obi Toppin	New York Knicks	F	6-9	212

AT&T SLAM DUNK WINNERS

1984 – Larry Nance, Phoenix

1985 – Dominique Wilkins, Atlanta

1986 – Spud Webb, Atlanta

1987 – Michael Jordan, Chicago

1988 – Michael Jordan, Chicago

1989 – Kenny Walker, New York

1990 – Dominique Wilkins, Atlanta

1991 – Dee Brown, Boston

1992 – Cedric Ceballos, Phoenix

1993 – Harold Miner, Miami

1994 – Isaiah Rider, Minnesota

1995 – Harold Miner, Miami

1996 – Brent Barry, LA Clippers

1997 – Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers

2000 – Vince Carter, Toronto

2001 – Desmond Mason, Seattle

2002 – Jason Richardson, Golden State

2003 – Jason Richardson, Golden State

2004 – Fred Jones, Indiana

2005 – Josh Smith, Atlanta

2006 – Nate Robinson, New York

2007 – Gerald Green, Boston

2008 – Dwight Howard, Orlando

2009 – Nate Robinson, New York

2010 – Nate Robinson, New York

2011 – Blake Griffin, LA Clippers

2012 – Jeremy Evans, Utah

2013 – Terrence Ross, Toronto

2014 – East (Paul George, Terrence Ross, John Wall)

2015 – Zach LaVine, Minnesota

2016 – Zach LaVine, Minnesota

2017 – Glenn Robinson III, Indiana

2018 – Donovan Mitchell, Utah

2019 – Hamidou Diallo, Oklahoma City

2020 – Derrick Jones Jr., Miami

AT&T and the NBA: An Innovative Partnership:

Since AT&T’s partnership with the NBA began, AT&T has been bringing the power of 5G to various events and activations across the country. In 2020, AT&T deployed its AT&T 5G HoloVision technology during the 2020 NBA Conference Finals and NBA Draft, and brought 5G to NBA All-Star for the first time, including at NBA Crossover and via the AT&T 5G Courtside Cam which shared unique, live camera angles directly from the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest as part of State Farm NBA All-Star Saturday Night. AT&T and the NBA were the first to broadcast a professional sports event in 5G at the 2019 MGM Resorts NBA Summer League. AT&T also previously worked with Turner and the NBA during the 2019 NBA Tip-Off broadcast to deliver virtual side-by-side access to TNT’s broadcast of through a volumetric 3D experience powered by AT&T 5G.

AT&T is the Official 5G Wireless Network of the NBA and the WNBA.

About AT&T Communications

We help faCANADA GOOSE AND NBA ANNOUNCE MULTIYEAR PARTNERSHIP

– League and Luxury Lifestyle Brand Team Up for Annual NBA All-Star Game with Exclusive Product Collaborations;

2021 Tips off with Design Partner, RHUDE, and Play in the Open Challenge –

Canada Goose & NBA Collection with RHUDE Chilliwack Bomber,

Portage Jacket, Freestyle Vest, Macmillan Parka

TORONTO, ON, March 2, 2021 – Today, Canada Goose announced a multiyear partnership with the National Basketball Association (NBA) that makes Canada Goose a Proud Outerwear Partner of NBA All-Star. In support of the partnership and timed to the NBA’s annual All-Star celebration, Canada Goose will develop an exclusive design collaboration each year for players and fans alike. This year’s design partner is Los Angeles-based brand, RHUDE, known for balancing luxury techniques with streetwear elements.

“Canada Goose has been a coveted brand across the influential arenas of film, entertainment and sport for decades. This multiyear partnership is a significant milestone for Canada Goose and the NBA; and our inaugural design partner, RHUDE, known for a culturally impactful approach to design, is the perfect tipoff partner,” said Dani Reiss, President & CEO, Canada Goose. “While this year looks different, we are proud to celebrate the players who have always supported us.”

“We are excited that Canada Goose will be recognizing the players and their accomplishments with their All-Star collections in the years ahead,” said Salvatore LaRocca, NBA President, Global Partnerships. “Canada Goose will bring its legacy of style and innovation to the league’s global celebration of the game.”

The inaugural year of the partnership will launch with the Play in the Open challenge, born from Canada Goose’s Live in the Open ethos – the brand’s invitation to express oneself freely and without judgement. The Play in the Open challenge will launch on TikTok on March 4 with a Tip Off Crew performing their best basketball trick. The Tip Off Crew, including RHUDE’s Founder, Rhuigi Villaseñor, and NBA center James Wiseman, will challenge followers to join in with their best spin, dunk or dribble and challenge three people to do the same – all in the spirit of coming together while staying apart.

Canada Goose & NBA Collection with RHUDE Macmillan Parka and Chilliwack Bomber |

Canada Goose & NBA Collection with RHUDE Portage Jacket and Freestyle Vest

The Canada Goose & NBA Collection with RHUDE is a four-piece unisex outerwear capsule designed for the elements and built for year-round use. Canada Goose is inspired by its archives, and each style reflects its heritage, including quilting, patches, bold branding and vintage washed colours and prints, all with distinct design cues from RHUDE.

“The NBA merges cultures, socioeconomics and brings people around the world together in the name of sport. Canada Goose is an innovative lifestyle brand, redefining the category. It was a no-brainer to partner with these two iconic brands,” said Rhuigi Villaseñor, Founder, RHUDE. “This collaboration honours the heritage of both the NBA and Canada Goose, and is a tribute to the athletes that already covet the brand.”

The collaboration’s pinnacle piece is the Freestyle Vest, a layering necessity fit for shoulder seasons, transitional temperatures, and premier protection. Freestyle Vests from this year’s Canada Goose & NBA Collection with RHUDE will be made available to all 2021 NBA All-Star participants and will be available for sale through canadagoose.com and select Canada Goose retail stores in the United States and Canada.

The Portage Jacket, a relaxed-fit trench coat, is sought-after for its versatility and convertible length, easily customizable via snap closures. The capsule’s two parkas are Canada Goose’s classics – the Chilliwack Bomber and Macmillan Parka. The Chilliwack is known for its durability, warmth and mobility, while the Macmillan provides fundamental protection for active city living. Each style is exclusively finished off with the Canada Goose disc, NBA logo and RHUDE patch. Canada Goose’s promise to inspire and enable all people to thrive in the outside world comes to life through the collection and Play in the Open, championing freedom of expression.

This Canada Goose and NBA partnership is an expansion of Canada Goose’s activation during NBA All-Star 2016 in its hometown of Toronto, where the company created limited edition co-branded parkas for both NBA All-Star teams.

The 2021 NBA All-Star Game will be held on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, home of the Atlanta Hawks, where the league’s annual global celebration of the game will take place on one night for the first time, with oncourt action beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET on TNT. The Canada Goose & NBA Collection with RHUDE drops right before Sunday’s game, starting March 5 at select Canada Goose retail stores and online at canadagoose.com in the United States and Canada.

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