The following is being sent on behalf of the National Basketball Coaches Association.
National Basketball Coaches Association
Announces 2022 Michael H. Goldberg
NBCA Coach of the Year Award
Voted Annually By 30 NBA Head Coaches
New York, April 12, 2022 — Phoenix Suns Head Coach Monty Williams is the 2022 recipient of the Michael H. Goldberg NBCA Coach of the Year Award, the National Basketball Coaches Association announced today.
The Michael H. Goldberg NBCA Coach of the Year Award recognizes the dedication, commitment, and hard work of NBA Head Coaches and is presented annually to a Head Coach who helps guide his players to a higher level of performance on the court and shows outstanding service and dedication to the community off the court. It honors the spirit of Mr. Goldberg, the esteemed long-time Executive Director of the NBCA, who set the standard for loyalty, integrity, love of the game, passionate representation, and tireless promotion of NBA coaching. The award is unique in that it is voted upon by the winners’ peers, the Head Coaches of all 30 NBA teams.
All told, 6 Head Coaches received votes, once again reflecting the depth of coaching excellence in the NBA. In addition to Williams, the following Head Coaches also received votes [listed alphabetically]: Willie Green, New Orleans Pelicans; Taylor Jenkins, Memphis Grizzlies; Tyronn Lue, Los Angeles Clippers; Gregg Popovich, San Antonio Spurs; and Erik Spoelstra, Miami Heat.
“Congratulations to Monty Williams on winning the Michael H. Goldberg Award for a second consecutive season,” said Indiana Pacers Head Coach and NBCA President Rick Carlisle. “Each of his three seasons with the Suns has produced a double-digit increase in wins from the previous year, which is extraordinarily difficult to do. Congratulations again to Monty and his entire staff on a repeat of this most prestigious recognition by his peers.”
Coach Williams led the Suns to a 64-18 record, best in the NBA and a new Suns franchise record for most wins in a season. The Suns captured their second straight Pacific Division title. They also became the first team in NBA history to increase their win total by at least 11 games in three consecutive seasons.
The Suns were as formidable on the road as they were at home. They had a 32-9 record on the road, tied for the third best in NBA history. The team’s .780 winning percentage on the road is a better winning percentage than every other NBA team’s home winning percentage this season. The Suns join the 1969-70 New York Knicks as the only teams to ever accomplish this feat. The Suns were a perfect 8-0 on the road in both November and January. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the Suns are the only team in NBA history with multiple unbeaten months (minimum 8 games) on the road in the same season.
Phoenix finished the season fifth in offensive rating (114.2), fourth in defensive rating (106.8), and first in net rating (7.5).
The Suns set an NBA record by going 47-0 when leading after three quarters, shattering the previous record (43-0), and were an impressive 17-17 when trailing after three quarters. This marks only the ninth time in NBA history a team has been .500 or better when trailing entering the fourth quarter. Phoenix was also a perfect 16-0 in November, the most wins in a month and the most wins without a loss in a month in franchise history.
Coach Williams won Western Conference Coach of the Month honors for October/November 2021 and January 2022.
“I am thrilled and overwhelmed to be recognized by my peers and receive the Michael H. Goldberg Coach of the Year Award from the NBCA,” said Phoenix Suns Head Coach Monty Williams. “The coaches in our league sacrifice so much to serve their teams, and there are so many outstanding coaches deserving of this honor. It is incredibly humbling to again receive this recognition from this group, for whom I hold the utmost respect. Thank you to my fellow coaches and to everyone at the NBCA…you guys deserve an award for the work that you do for us and our families.
This honor carries added significance because it bears Mr. Goldberg’s name. He cared dearly for all of the league’s coaches and worked tirelessly for our best interests. He was a consistent example of class and sacrificed his time so that we could have better jobs and livelihoods.
Individual accolades are a result of team success. My name gets attached to this award, but the success of our team is due to the work put in everyday by our players, coaching staff, and every member of the Suns organization. This honor is reflective of the efforts of countless people and it is a privilege to work alongside you all. It’s a get to, not a got to.
I am so grateful for each one of our players and staff. It is a blessing and a joy to interact with you all every day. I thank you for making this such a special season for our organization and for our fans – and also for me and my family.”
“Monty Williams is extremely deserving of this Award and the recognition that comes with it from his coaching peers,” said David Fogel, NBCA Executive Director and General Counsel. “Coach Williams’ hard work, commitment, and dedication to his craft and his players led the Suns to an incredible season and the best record in the NBA. Monty embodies the same high levels of integrity and excellence that Michael displayed every day of his life. Congratulations to Coach Williams, the Suns Assistant Coaches, and the entire staff on back-to-back Michael H. Goldberg NBCA Coach of the Year honors.”
In 1980, just four years after the NBCA was founded, Goldberg became its first Executive Director. Building on the existing NBCA foundation, he guided it during the years of the greatest growth in professional basketball. He helped gain significant benefits for NBA Coaches, including increased retirement funds and disability insurance. Prior to the NBCA, Goldberg was General Counsel of the American Basketball Association.
The prior recipients of the Michael H. Goldberg NBCA Coach of the Year Award are:
- 2021: Monty Williams
- 2020: Mike Budenholzer and Billy Donovan
- 2019: Mike Budenholzer
- 2018: Dwane Casey
- 2017: Mike D’Antoni and Erik Spoelstra
The NBA will announce the NBA’s Coach of the Year later during the 2022 NBA Playoffs.
About the NBCA: The National Basketball Coaches Association (NBCA) is the labor association that represents basketball coaches in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Founded in 1976 by legendary Boston Celtics player and coach, Tommy Heinsohn, the NBCA consists of all NBA Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches and alumni, and works closely with the NBA on all matters that pertain to the coaching profession.
Grises de Humacao sacan victoria y aseguran por tercer año consecutivo el pase a las Series de Cuartos de Finales de la Liga de Baloncesto Puertorriqueña
Los Grises de Humacao derrotaron a los Héroes de Toa Alta, en el segundo final con un canasto "Buzzer Beater" de Geovan Delgado y asegurando por tercer año consecutivo el pase a las Series de Cuartos de Finales de la Liga de Baloncesto Puertorriqueña (LBP), con marcador de 75-73, el pasado domingo, 10 de abril, en el Coliseo Lauro Dávila.
El apoderado del equipo, Orlando J. López Rivera informó que los líderes en la ofensiva Gris lo fueron José A. Pérez con 20 puntos y 5 rebotes, seguido de Samuel I. Delgado que aportó 15 puntos y 6 rebotes. Jean Vázquez y Cristian Díaz por su parte anotaron 15 puntos para la causa.
“El lunes 18 de abril los Grises Humacao visitarán a los Capitalinos de San Juan en el Coliseíto Pedrín Zorrilla, en el comienzo de las Series de Cuartos de Finales de la LBP. Gracias a todos los fanáticos y patrocinadores por el apoyo, ha sido un año difícil, pero gracias a Dios poco a poco hemos podido volver a la normalidad y estar de regreso a las canchas,” expresó López Rivera.
Más información en Facebook e Instagram: Grises de Humacao LBP.
NBA ANNOUNCES 36 OFFICIALS SELECTED FOR 2022 NBA PLAYOFFS PRESENTED BY GOOGLE PIXEL
– Playoff Roster Features 29 Officials with 10 or More Years of NBA Experience –
NEW YORK, April 11, 2022 – The NBA today announced the list of 36 officials who have earned spots to work the first round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs presented by Google Pixel. The same group also comprises the officiating staff for the Meta Quest NBA Play-In Tournament.
“Through their on-court achievement, hard work and professionalism, this dedicated group has earned the right to represent the NBA in the postseason,” said Byron Spruell, NBA President, League Operations. “Congratulations to our officials and thank you for continuing to serve the game during the 2022 NBA Playoffs.”
Below is the list of officials for the first round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs presented by Google Pixel:
Brent Barnaky, Curtis Blair, Tony Brothers, Nick Buchert, James Capers, Kevin Cutler, Eric Dalen, Marc Davis, JB DeRosa, Mitchell Ervin, Kane Fitzgerald, Tyler Ford, Brian Forte, Scott Foster, Pat Fraher, Jacyn Goble, John Goble, David Guthrie, Bill Kennedy, Courtney Kirkland, Karl Lane, Eric Lewis, Mark Lindsay, Tre Maddox, Ed Malloy, Rodney Mott, Gediminas Petraitis, Michael Smith, Ben Taylor, Josh Tiven, Scott Twardoski, Justin Van Duyne, Tom Washington, James Williams, Sean Wright and Zach Zarba.
The following officials are alternates for the first round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs presented by Google Pixel:
Ray Acosta, Matt Boland, Derrick Collins, Lauren Holtkamp, Brett Nansel, Aaron Smith, Dedric Taylor and Leon Wood.
Playoff officials are selected by the NBA Referee Operations management team based on three specific criteria assessed throughout the season: NBA Referee Operations graded rankings, play-calling accuracy and team rankings. Officials will be evaluated after each round of the playoffs to determine who will advance in the 2022 postseason.
The officials who comprise the 2022 playoff roster average 16 years of NBA experience, with 29 having 10 or more years of experience. Twenty-one officials have five or more years of playoff experience, highlighted by Tom Washington and Scott Foster, who will be officiating in the playoffs for their 24th and 22nd seasons, respectively.
Referees assigned to first-round games include nine with 100 or more playoff games worked: Foster (201), Washington (172), Tony Brothers (163), James Capers (163), Marc Davis (161), Ed Malloy (121), Bill Kennedy (120), Zach Zarba (117) and John Goble (100).
Making their debut as members of the playoff staff are Eric Dalen, Mitchell Ervin and Justin Van Duyne.
The Meta Quest NBA Play-In Tournament begins Tuesday, April 12. The first round of the NBA Playoffs presented by Google Pixel tips off Saturday, April 16. Individual game assignments for referees are posted at NBA.com/official at approximately 9 a.m. ET each game day.
LONG ISLAND NETS’ CRAIG RANDALL II NAMED
2021-22 KIA NBA G LEAGUE MOST IMPROVED PLAYER
NEW YORK, April 11, 2022 – Long Island Nets guard Craig Randall II has been named the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Most Improved Player, the NBA G League announced today. The award, which honors the player who demonstrates the most significant improvement during the season, was voted on by NBA G League head coaches and general managers.
In his first NBA G League season, Randall (6-4, 185, Tennessee-Martin) averaged 26.7 points, 6.2 assists and 5.5 rebounds in 27 regular-season games. He finished second in the voting for the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Rookie of the Year Award.
Randall earned a spot on the Nets’ roster in October 2021 after participating in a local tryout. He was named the NBA G League Player of the Month for games played in February, becoming the first local tryout player to earn Player of the Month honors.
Earlier in the regular season, Randall was named the NBA G League Player of the Week for games played from Jan. 5-9 after scoring 40 points against the College Park Skyhawks on Jan. 5 and 44 points against the Greensboro Swarm on Jan. 7.
Prior to the regular season, Randall averaged 11.0 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists in 14 games for Long Island during the 2021 NBA G League Showcase Cup.
Delaware Blue Coats forward Braxton Key and Skyhawks forward Justin Tillman finished in second and third place, respectively, in the voting for the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Most Improved Player Award.
All-Time Kia NBA G League Most Improved Player Award Winners:
2021-22: Craig Randall II (Long Island Nets)
2020-21: Anthony Lamb (Rio Grande Valley Vipers)
2019-20: Gabe Vincent (Sioux Falls Skyforce)
2018-19: Michael Frazier (Rio Grande Valley Vipers)
2017-18: DeQuan Jones (Fort Wayne Mad Ants)
2016-17: Devondrick Walker (Delaware 87ers)
2015-16: Axel Toupane (Raptors 905)
2014-15: Joe Jackson (Bakersfield Jam)
2013-14: Frank Gaines (Maine Red Claws)
2012-13: Cameron Jones (Santa Cruz Warriors)
2011-12: Kenny Hayes (Maine Red Claws)
2010-11: Dar Tucker (New Mexico Thunderbirds)
2009-10: Mildon Ambres (Idaho Stampede)
Saturday, April 16, 2022 | ||||
| ||||
AWAY | HOME | GM | ET | TV/R |
Utah | Dallas | 1 | 1:00PM | ESPN |
West #7 | Memphis | 1 | 3:30PM | ESPN |
Toronto | Philadelphia | 1 | 6:00PM | ESPN |
Denver | Golden State | 1 | 8:30PM | ABC/R |
Sunday, April 17, 2022 | ||||
| ||||
AWAY | HOME | GM | ET | TV/R |
East #7 | Boston | 1 | TBD | TBD |
East #8 | Miami | 1 | TBD | TBD |
Chicago | Milwaukee | 1 | TBD | TBD |
West #8 | Phoenix | 1 | TBD | TBD |
SOUTH BAY LAKERS’ ANDRE INGRAM WINS 2021-22
KIA NBA G LEAGUE SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
- Ingram Honored with the Jason Collier Trophy for the Second Time -
NEW YORK, April 10, 2022 – South Bay Lakers guard Andre Ingram has been selected by his fellow NBA G League Players as the winner of the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Sportsmanship Award, which honors the player who best represents the ideals of character and conduct as a teammate on the court and in the locker room. Ingram becomes the second two-time winner in NBA G League history, having previously received the award for the 2009-10 season.
The Kia NBA G League Sportsmanship Award trophy is named after the late Jason Collier, who exemplified the qualities of a great teammate during his career in the NBA G League and the NBA. A 2003-04 All-NBA G League First Team selection, Collier was preparing to begin his sixth NBA season at the time of his death in 2005.
Ingram, who just completed his 13th NBA G League season, is a fixture atop the NBA G League record books, ranking first all-time in games played (474) and minutes (11,699), third in points (4,533) and fourth in field goals made (1,515) and attempted (3,312). He also holds the all-time NBA G League records for most three-pointers made (845) and attempted (1881), while sitting in fifth place all-time in three-point percentage (44.9). Ingram, who owns career NBA G League averages of 9.6 points and 2.9 rebounds, appeared in six career NBA games for the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons.
Each NBA G League team nominated one player for the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Sportsmanship Award. NBA G League players voted for the winner from the list of nominees. Maine Celtics guard Eric Demers and Cleveland Charge guard Mitch Ballock finished in second and third place, respectively.
Kia NBA G League Sportsmanship Award Winners
2021-22: Andre Ingram (South Bay Lakers)
2020-21: Galen Robinson Jr. (Austin Spurs)
2019-20: Ivan Rabb (Westchester Knicks)
2018-19: Gabe York (Lakeland Magic)
2017-18: C.J. Williams (Agua Caliente Clippers)
2016-17: Keith Wright (Westchester Knicks)
2015-16: Scott Suggs (Raptors 905)
2014-15: Renaldo Major (Bakersfield Jam)
2013-14: Ron Howard (Fort Wayne Mad Ants)
2012-13: Ron Howard (Fort Wayne Mad Ants)
2011-12: Moses Ehambe (Iowa Energy)
2010-11: Larry Owens (Tulsa 66ers)
2009-10: Andre Ingram (Utah Flash)
2008-09: Will Conroy (Albuquerque Thunderbirds)
2007-08: Billy Thomas (Colorado 14ers)
2007-08: Roger Powell (Arkansas RimRockers)
2006-07: Ime Udoka (Fort Worth Flyers)
About the NBA G League
The NBA’s official minor league, the NBA G League prepares players, coaches, officials, trainer and front-office staff for the NBA while acting as the league’s research and development laboratory. Featuring 29 teams, 28 with direct affiliations to NBA franchises for 2021-22, the league offers elite professional basketball at an affordable price in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. 41 percent of all NBA players at the start of the 2021-22 season boasted NBA G League experience. In fostering the league’s connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA Cares programs.
About Kia America
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electrified vehicles sold through a network of nearly 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America.
For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/
ORLANDO’S SCHOFIELD AND LOPEZ, CHARLOTTE’S HARRELL FINED
NEW YORK, April 9, 2022 – Orlando Magic forward Admiral Schofield has been fined $20,000, Magic center Robin Lopez has been fined $15,000 and Charlotte Hornets center Montrezl Harrell has been fined $15,000 for their roles in an on-court altercation, it was announced today by Byron Spruell, President, League Operations.
The incident began when the Hornets’ Jalen McDaniels fouled the Magic’s R.J. Hampton on a drive to the basket and the two had to be separated. Lopez escalated the incident when he aggressively approached and made contact with the Hornets’ PJ Washington, who was acting as a peacemaker between Hampton and McDaniels. Harrell, who then made contact with Lopez, was shoved forcefully in the back by Schofield. Both Schofield and Harrell were deemed to have further escalated the incident.
The incident, for which Harrell, Lopez and Schofield each received technical fouls and were ejected, occurred with 7:45 remaining in the fourth quarter of the Hornets’ 128-101 victory over the Magic on April 7 at Spectrum Center.
To view the incident, click on the following link: https://www.nba.com/watch/
GAME | AWAY | HOME | ET | TV/R^ |
Tuesday, April 12 | ||||
1 | Cleveland | Brooklyn | 7:00PM | TNT |
2 | LA Clippers | Minnesota | 9:30PM | TNT |
Wednesday, April 13 | ||||
3 | Charlotte | Atlanta | 7:00PM | ESPN |
4 | San Antonio | New Orleans | 9:30PM | ESPN |
Friday, April 15 | ||||
5 | Winner of Game 3 | Loser of Game 1 | TBD* | ESPN |
6 | Winner of Game 4 | Loser of Game 2 | TBD* | TNT |
SOUTH BAY LAKERS’ MAC McCLUNG NAMED 2021-22
KIA NBA G LEAGUE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
NEW YORK, April 9, 2022 – South Bay Lakers guard Mac McClung has been named the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Rookie of the Year, the NBA G League announced today. The award, voted on by the league’s head coaches and general managers, recognizes the first-year professional who most significantly contributed to his team’s success during the regular season.
McClung (6-2, 185, Texas Tech) averaged 21.7 points, 7.6 assists, 6.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 27 regular-season games. He ranked fifth in the NBA G League in assists and ninth in free throw percentage (88.5).
On Feb. 3, McClung recorded 29 points, 11 assists and 11 rebounds against the Salt Lake City Stars to become the first South Bay player to record a triple-double since 2018. He also scored a career-high 37 points against the Santa Cruz Warriors on Feb. 6.
McClung is South Bay’s first NBA G League Rookie of the Year honoree. Behind the 23-year-old McClung, the Lakers went 21-11 and secured the No. 3 seed in the NBA G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel.
McClung, who was not selected in the 2021 NBA Draft, played with the Los Angeles Lakers at the 2021 NBA Summer League. He was one of six South Bay players to earn a GATORADE Call-Up this season, signing two 10-day contracts with the Chicago Bulls. McClung appeared in one game with the Bulls. On April 9, McClung earned his third GATORADE Call-Up of the season, signing a two-way deal with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Long Island Nets guard Craig Randall II and Texas Legends guard Carlik Jones finished second and third, respectively, in the voting for the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Rookie of the Year Award.
Kia NBA G League Rookie of the Year Award Winners
2021-22: Mac McClung, South Bay Lakers
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
DELAWARE BLUE COATS’ SHAQUILLE HARRISON NAMED
2021-22 KIA NBA G LEAGUE DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
NEW YORK, April 8, 2022 – Delaware Blue Coats guard Shaquille Harrison has been named the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Defensive Player of the Year, the NBA G League announced today. He is the second Blue Coats player to win the award in the last three seasons, joining 2019-20 winner Christ Koumadje.
The league’s head coaches and general managers voted for the Defensive Player of the Year Award. Rio Grande Valley Vipers guard Trevelin Queen, the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League MVP, and Blue Coats forward Braxton Key finished in second and third place, respectively.
Harrison (6-4, 195, Tulsa) ranked seventh in the NBA G League in steals (1.93 spg) and added 12.7 points, 6.3 assists and 4.6 rebounds for the Blue Coats, who finished tied for second in the Eastern Conference with a record of 22-10. He averaged 3.9 defensive rebounds per game and blocked 17 shots in 27 games.
Behind Harrison and Key, Delaware led the NBA G League in steals (11.8 spg), blocks (7.0 bpg) and forced turnovers per game (20.4).
Harrison, who was not selected in the 2016 NBA Draft, has appeared in parts of five NBA seasons with the Phoenix Suns, Chicago Bulls, Utah Jazz, Denver Nuggets and Brooklyn Nets. In 2018-19, he played a career-high 73 games and averaged 6.5 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.9 assists with the Bulls.
Harrison began the 2021-22 season in training camp with the Philadelphia 76ers before joining the team’s G League affiliate in Delaware. He signed two 10-day contracts with the Nets in December, appearing in two games. He signed a 10-day contract with the Memphis Grizzlies in January but did not appear in a game.
All-Time NBA G League Defensive Players of the Year
2021-22: Shaquille Harrison (Delaware Blue Coats)
2020-21: Gary Payton II (Raptors 905)
2019-20: Christ Koumadje (Delaware Blue Coats)
2018-19: Chris Boucher (Raptors 905)
2017-18: Landry Nnoko (Grand Rapids Drive)
2016-17: Edy Tavares (Raptors 905)
2015-16: DeAndre Liggins (Sioux Falls Skyforce)
2014-15: Aaron Craft (Santa Cruz Warriors)
2013-14: DeAndre Liggins (Sioux Falls Skyforce)
2012-13: Stefhon Hannah (Santa Cruz Warriors)
2011-12: Stefhon Hannah (Dakota Wizards)
2010-11: Chris Johnson (Dakota Wizards)
2009-10: Greg Stiemsma (Sioux Falls Skyforce)
2008-09: Brent Petway (Idaho Stampede)
2007-08: Stephane Lasme (Los Angeles D-Fenders)
Mouhamed Sene (Idaho Stampede)
2006-07: Renaldo Major (Dakota Wizards)
2005-06: Derrick Zimmerman (Austin Toros)
2004-05: Derrick Zimmerman (Columbus Riverdragons)
2003-04: Karim Shabazz (Charleston Lowgators)
2002-03: Mikki Moore (Roanoke Dazzle)
2001-02: Jeff Myers (Greenville Groove)
About the NBA G League
The NBA’s official minor league, the NBA G League prepares players, coaches, officials, trainers and front-office staff for the NBA while acting as the league’s research and development laboratory. Featuring 29 teams, 28 with direct affiliations to NBA franchises for 2020-21, the league offers elite professional basketball at an affordable price in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. A record 45 percent of all NBA players at the start of the 2020-21 season boasted NBA G League experience. In fostering the league’s connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA Cares programs.
About Kia America
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electrified vehicles sold through a network of nearly 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America.
For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/
RIO GRANDE VALLEY VIPERS’ TREVELIN QUEEN NAMED KIA NBA G LEAGUE MVP AS TEAM WINS THREE 2021-22 SEASON AWARDS
– Head Coach Mahmoud Abdelfattah Voted NBA G League Coach of the Year –
– General Manager Travis Stockbridge Selected NBA G League Basketball Executive of the Year –
NEW YORK, April 7, 2022 – The NBA G League today announced that the Rio Grande Valley Vipers have earned three annual performance awards for this season, including guard Trevelin Queen being named the 2021-22 Kia NBA G League Most Valuable Player.
Additionally, head coach Mahmoud Abdelfattah is the recipient of the Dennis Johnson Trophy as the 2021-22 NBA G League Coach of the Year, while General Manager Travis Stockbridge has been named the 2021-22 NBA G League Basketball Executive of the Year.
NBA G League Head of Basketball Operations Malik Rose will present all three winners with their awards tonight before the Vipers host the Texas Legends in the Western Conference Semifinals at the Bert Ogden Arena (8 p.m. ET, ESPNews).
Rio Grande is the second team in NBA G League history to earn MVP, Coach of the Year and Basketball Executive of the Year accolades in the same season. The MVP and Coach of the Year awards were voted on by the league’s 28 head coaches and general managers, while Basketball Executive of the Year was voted on by the general managers only.
Queen, a two-way player with the Houston Rockets, averaged 25.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 3.3 steals in 19 games.
Queen (6-6, 190, New Mexico State) received an NBA GATORADE Call-Up when he signed his two-way contract with the Rockets on Dec. 18, 2021, and has appeared in 10 games for Houston this season. He is the third Rio Grande Valley Vipers player to win the Kia NBA G League MVP award, joining Mike Harris (2009-10) and Andrew Goudelock (2012-13).
In his third season as head coach of the Rockets’ NBA G League affiliate, Abdelfattah steered the Vipers to the top regular-season record in the Western Conference (24-10), earning a bye in the NBA G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel. Under Abdelfattah, the Vipers led the league in points per game (124.5), free throws made (12.4), offensive rebounds (16.5) and total rebounds (51.4).
Since being named head coach prior to the 2019-20 season, Abdelfattah has led the Vipers to a record of 48-43 and two consecutive playoff appearances. He is the second head coach in Rio Grande Valley history to earn Coach of the Year honors, joining current Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch (2009-10).
Stockbridge becomes the first executive in Vipers’ history to win the Basketball Executive of the Year award. Key player acquisitions by Stockbridge included Marcus Foster (18.7 ppg, 4.3 apg), Mfiondu Kabengele (17.5 ppg, 9.4 rpg) and 12-year NBA veteran Gerald Green (16.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg). Since Stockbridge became general manager in 2019, five Rio Grande Valley players have earned GATORADE Call-Ups: Queen, Armoni Brooks, Anthony Lamb, Ray Spalding and Brodric Thomas.
The Sioux Falls Skyforce is the only other NBA G League team to win all three awards in the same season. Sioux Falls accomplished this feat for the 2015-16 season, with Jarnell Stokes winning MVP, Dan Craig earning Coach of the Year and Adam Simon receiving Basketball Executive of the Year honors.
Motor City Cruise guard Saben Lee, who was on assignment from the Detroit Pistons, and South Bay Lakers two-way guard Mason Jones finished in second and third place, respectively, in voting for Kia NBA G League MVP.
Raptors 905 head coach Patrick Mutombo and Agua Caliente Clippers head coach Paul Hewitt finished in second and third place, respectively, for NBA G League Coach of the Year.
Delaware Blue Coats General Manager Prosper Karangwa and Raptors 905 General Manager Chad Sanders finished in second and third place, respectively, for NBA G League Basketball Executive of the Year.
Click here to view previous NBA G League award winners.
OLE MISS’ SHAKIRA AUSTIN, KENTUCKY’S RHYNE HOWARD AND
BAYLOR’S NALYSSA SMITH HEADLINE PROSPECTS TO ATTEND
WNBA DRAFT 2022 PRESENTED BY STATE FARM®
– Draft and Iconic WNBA “Orange Carpet” Return to an In-Person Event
for First Time Since 2019 at New York City’s Acclaimed Spring Studios –
– ESPN to Televise Draft Live from New York on Monday, April 11 from 7-9 p.m. ET –
– ESPN2 will Broadcast first-ever WNBA Draft Preview Show on Saturday, April 9 at 1:30 p.m. ET –
NEW YORK, April 6, 2022 – Ole Miss center Shakira Austin, Kentucky guard Rhyne Howard and Baylor forward NaLyssa Smith headline the list of 12 prospects who will attend WNBA Draft 2022 presented by State Farm® on Monday, April 11.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert will announce the first-round draft picks live on ESPN with exclusive coverage beginning at 7 p.m. ET. The draft will also be available live on the ESPN App.
In preparation for the WNBA Draft 2022 presented by State Farm, ESPN2 will broadcast the first-ever WNBA Draft Preview Show on Saturday, April 9 (1:30 p.m. ET). LaChina Robinson will host the 30-minute special with analyst Rebecca Lobo. Together they will break down the top draft prospects, discuss team needs and whose stock is on the rise following the NCAA Tournament.
On draft night, top prospects will take part live as the WNBA Draft presented by State Farm returns to an in-person event for the first time since 2019, with the acclaimed Spring Studios, located in the Tribeca section of New York City and the home to such iconic events as Fashion Week and The Tribeca Film Festival, serving as the venue for the evening’s events.
The other prospects who will be in attendance are guard Kierstan Bell (Florida Gulf Coast), guard-forward Rae Burrell (Tennessee), guard Veronica Burton (Northwestern), guard Nia Clouden (Michigan State), center Elissa Cunane (NC State), forward Emily Engstler (Louisville), guard Destanni Henderson (South Carolina), forward Naz Hillmon (Michigan), and forward Nyara Sabally (Oregon).
The Atlanta Dream own the top pick in the draft by virtue of a trade with the Washington Mystics announced earlier today. The Indiana Fever, which has the No. 2, 4, 6 and 10 overall selections, could become the first team in WNBA history to make four picks in the first round.
“Draft Central” on WNBA.com will enable fans to access multiple offerings in advance of and throughout the WNBA Draft 2022 presented by State Farm, including an interactive Draft Board, prospect profiles with insights powered by SAP, in-depth features on the top draft prospects and coverage of all draft events. Fans will also be able to access an array of content across @WNBA channels that will include the unique stories and personalities of the prospects via Instagram and TikTok, a Twitter Spaces Mock Draft Debate and cross platform live coverage including the “Orange Carpet.”
Here is a closer look at the prospects who will be attending WNBA Draft 2022 presented by State Farm.
Shakira Austin (Ole Miss): A two-time All-America Honorable Mention selection at Ole Miss, Austin was one of 15 players on the ballot for the 2021-22 John R. Wooden Award as the nation’s top player and a semifinalist for the Lisa Leslie Award as the nation’s best center. The 6-5 Fredericksburg, Va., native earned all-conference honors first in the ACC with Maryland and then in the SEC with Ole Miss, which she helped improve from 7-23 the year before her arrival to 23-7 this season.
Kierstan Bell (Florida Gulf Coast): Bell, a 6-1 guard and the winner of the 2020-21 Becky Hammon Mid-Major Player of the Year Award, was a finalist for the same honor in 2021-22 as well as for the Ann Meyers Drysdale Award as the nation’s best shooting guard. An AP All-America Honorable Mention selection the last two seasons, the native of Alliance, Ohio helped FGCU earn the ASUN Conference regular-season and tournament titles in 2021-22. She averaged 24.3 points in 2020-21 and 22.8 points in 2021-22.
Rae Burrell (Tennessee): A 6-1 guard-forward from Las Vegas, Burrell overcame an early-season leg injury this season to average 12.3 points and 3.9 rebounds in 22 games for the Lady Vols. Burrell capped her final season at Tennessee by earning All-Tournament Team at the NCAA Wichita Regionals.
Veronica Burton (Northwestern): The 5-9 Burton, a finalist for the Naismith National Defensive Player of the Year honor, joined current Atlanta Dream coach Tanisha Wright as the only women to earn three Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors. The four-time Big Ten steals leader also was an AP All-America Third Team selection this season and a finalist for the Nancy Lieberman Award as the best Division I point guard. A native of Newton, Mass., her late grandfather, Ron Burton, was the first-ever draft pick of the New England Patriots.
Nia Clouden (Michigan State): A 5-8 guard, Clouden garnered All-Big Ten First Team honors in 2020-21 and again this season. A starter at Michigan State from the first game of her freshman season, the Baltimore native paced the Spartans in points per game in her final three seasons, lifting her scoring average from 14.5 to 18.7 to 20.0 points in that span. She set a Michigan State single-game record with 50 points against Florida Gulf Coast this season en route to being one of 10 semifinalists for the Nancy Lieberman Award as Division I’s best point guard.
Elissa Cunane (NC State): Nicknamed “Big Smile,” the 6-5 Cunane was a finalist for the Lisa Leslie Award as the nation’s best center the past three seasons and an AP All-America Second Team selection the last two years. She helped the Wolfpack win the ACC Tournament crown in her hometown of Greensboro, N.C., each of the last three seasons, earning tournament MVP honors in 2021 and 2022. Cunane also helped NC State earn four consecutive trips to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.
Emily Engstler (Louisville): A transfer from Syracuse ahead of this season, Engstler excelled for Louisville, becoming one of five finalists for the Cheryl Miller Award as the nation’s best small forward and one of 10 semifinalists for the Naismith National Defensive Player of the Year honor. The 6-1 forward from Queens, N.Y., was an All-ACC First Team and All-Defensive Team pick in 2021-22, a year after being named Co-Sixth Player of Year. She finished this season atop the ACC charts in steals (2.7 spg) and ranked third in rebounding (6.7 rpg).
Destanni Henderson (South Carolina): A 5-7 guard from Fort Myers, Fla., Henderson propelled South Carolina to the 2021-22 national championship with a game-high 26 points in the title game win over Connecticut. In Henderson’s final season with the Gamecocks, she was one of 15 players on the ballot for the John R. Wooden Award as the National Player of the Year. She was also a finalist for the Dawn Staley Award as the best Division I guard and for the Nancy Lieberman Award as the nation’s top point guard.
Naz Hillmon (Michigan): The most decorated player in the history of the Wolverines’ women’s basketball program, Hillmon was an AP All-America First Team selection this season and the 2020-21 Big Ten Player of the Year. The Cleveland native and four-time All-Big Ten First Team honoree was a finalist for both the Katrina McClain Award as the nation’s best power forward and the John R. Wooden Award as the National Player of the Year. A 6-2 forward, Hillmon averaged more than 21.0 points and 9.5 rebounds in each of the past two seasons.
Rhyne Howard (Kentucky): The 6-2 Howard was the SEC Player of the Year in 2020-21 and 2021-22. In each of the past three seasons, the versatile Chattanooga, Tenn., native was a finalist for multiple National Player of the Year honors as well as for the Dawn Staley Award as the nation’s top guard and the Cheryl Miller Award as the best small forward. She is the ninth player ever to be a three-time AP All-America First Team pick, joining Alana Beard, Brittney Griner, Chamique Holdsclaw, Sabrina Ionescu, Maya Moore, Courtney Paris, Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson. Howard averaged at least 20 points each of the last three seasons.
Nyara Sabally (Oregon): A native of Berlin, Germany, the 6-5 forward is the younger sister of Satou Sabally, the Dallas Wings forward and No. 2 selection in the 2020 WNBA Draft presented by State Farm. After missing the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons due to injury, the younger Sabally was an All-Pac-12 selection the past two seasons and a finalist for the 2021-22 Katrina McClain Award as the nation’s top power forward. This season, she led Oregon in scoring (15.4 ppg) and rebounding (7.8 rpg).
NaLyssa Smith (Baylor): Smith, a 6-4 forward, won the Wade Trophy as the nation’s best player in 2020-21. In each of the past two seasons, she earned the Katrina McClain Award as Division I’s best power forward, was selected as the Big 12 Conference Player of the Year and was named to the AP All-America First Team. This year, the Converse, Texas native was again a finalist for multiple National Player of the Year honors after pacing the Big 12 in scoring (22.1 ppg) and rebounding (11.5 rpg).
Below summarizes the players invited to attend WNBA Draft 2022 presented by State Farm®.
About State Farm®
For 100 years, the mission of State Farm has been, and continues to be, to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of auto and home insurance in the United States. Its more than 19,400 agents and approximately 53,400 employees serve over 87 million policies and accounts – which includes auto, fire, life, health, commercial policies and financial services accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is available. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 39 on the 2021 Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com
NBA FOUNDATION GRANTS 40 NON-PROFIT RECIPIENTS TOTALING MORE THAN $11 MILLION IN FIFTH GRANT ROUND
– Foundation Has Awarded More Than 100 Grants, Reaching Initial $30 Million Seeding in First Year from NBA Board of Governors –
– Six Grant Recipients from NBA Foundation’s First Year of Grantmaking to Receive Renewals as Part of Latest Round of Funding –
NEW YORK, April 5, 2022 – The NBA Foundation tipped off its second year of grantmaking, today announcing 40 new grants totaling $11 million to organizations that are creating employment opportunities, furthering career advancement, and driving greater economic empowerment for Black youth throughout the United States and Canada. Named as part of the Foundation’s fifth grant round and the first of 2022, the grants are focused on workforce development, pathways for higher education, mentoring and entrepreneurship for Black youth.
The NBA Foundation, which was seeded with a 10-year $300 million commitment from the NBA Board of Governors in 2020, has now awarded 118 grants to-date, totaling more than $33 million to non-profit organizations. The fifth grant round features over $1 million for six grant renewals to exalt, Marcus Graham Project, Operation DREAM, TEAM Inc., The Knowledge House and the Youth Empowerment Project, who were a part of the Foundation’s first year of grantmaking. These grants will continue to support pipeline development for high school, college-aged, job-ready and mid-career individuals in their communities.
The full list of the 40 grantees and their efforts can be viewed here.
"As we enter our second year of funding and surpass the $30 million initially provided by the NBA Board of Governors to establish the Foundation, our work with national and local organizations that are driving economic opportunity for Black youth in the NBA’s 28 markets continues to strengthen and evolve,” said Greg Taylor, NBA Foundation Executive Director. “We look forward to our growth in the year ahead and are excited to establish new relationships with non-profits serving Black youth and to further collaborate with the organizations who have demonstrated their impact."
The NBA Foundation, created by the 30 NBA teams, works in partnership with the teams’ affiliated charitable organizations and the NBPA to support national and local organizations with a specific focus on team markets, utilizing the collective $30 million annual commitment from the NBA Board of Governors as well as additional funding sources. To learn more about the NBA Foundation or apply for a grant, please visit www.nbafoundation.com or follow @NBAFoundation on Twitter and Instagram.
CLEVELAND’S BICKERSTAFF FINED
NEW YORK, April 4, 2022 – Cleveland Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff has been fined $15,000 for public criticism of the officiating, it was announced today by Byron Spruell, President, League Operations.
Bickerstaff made his comments to the media following the Cavaliers’ 112-108 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on April 3 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
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The NBA today unveiled the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Trophy for the league’s annual Social Justice Champion award. The honor recognizes a current NBA player for pursuing social justice and advancing Abdul-Jabbar’s life mission to engage, empower and drive equality for historically marginalized or systemically disadvantaged individuals and groups.
Designed by James Adams Jr., Jason Garrett, Vijay Singh and Lacy Talley, four aspiring artists from inaugural NBA Foundation grantee Marcus Graham Project, and produced by artist Victor Solomon, the trophy honors Abdul-Jabbar’s legacy and draws inspiration from his commitment to creating an equal and just society, leveling the playing field and ensuring that every child is free to dream. The structure features a 3-D print of Abdul-Jabbar’s hands holding up these ideals in the form of a basketball-globe, which represents the impact athletes and activists can have to use their platforms and advance social justice globally. The gold, six-sided base symbolizes harmony and balance while celebrating Abdul-Jabbar’s holistic excellence – both with his six NBA titles and many accolades outside of the game.
The trophy was unveiled during a pregame ceremony and on-court presentation prior to tipoff of the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets game at Crypto.com Arena and presented to the 2021 Social Justice Champion and Los Angeles Lakers forward Carmelo Anthony.
The 2022 winner will be announced during the NBA postseason and will receive a $100,000 donation from the NBA for a social justice organization of his choosing. The other four finalists will each select an organization to receive a $25,000 contribution on their behalf.
Additional photos of the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Social Justice Champion trophy are available here. Courtesy: Andrew Kenney
Video of the unveil ceremony and on-court presentation available here.
NBA COMMISSIONER ADAM SILVER’S STATEMENT REGARDING MIKE KRZYZEWSKI
NEW YORK, April 3, 2022 – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding Duke University men’s basketball head coach Mike Krzyzewski:
“The NBA congratulates Mike Krzyzewski on his record-setting coaching career. In 42 years as head coach at Duke and more than a decade as a head coach for USA Basketball, his leadership and mentoring have had a profound impact on countless NBA players, coaches and executives, including me. We thank Coach K for all that he has done for the game of basketball.”
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Announces
13 Members for the Class of 2022
Ticket Packages for Enshrinement Festivities Available Now on Hoophall.com
New Orleans, LA (April 2, 2022) – The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame today announced the 13 honorees in the Class of 2022 to be celebrated September 9-10 during this year’s Enshrinement festivities in Springfield, Massachusetts. The Class Announcement was made in New Orleans, Louisiana, the site of the 2022 NCAA Men’s Final Four and was televised live on ESPN2.
This year’s class includes two-time NBA All-Star and four-time NBA champion Manu Ginobili, five-time NBA All-Star Tim Hardaway, two-time NCAA National Coach of the Year Bob Huggins, the NBA’s sixth-winningest coach of all-time George Karl and longtime NBA referee Hugh Evans. On the women’s side, the Hall of Fame is proud to welcome five-time WNBA All-Star, three-time WNBA Champion, and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Lindsay Whalen, four-time WNBA All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist Swin Cash and NCAA national champion and WNBA Coach of the Year Marianne Stanley.
Distinguished committees focused on preserving all areas from the game also selected five directly elected enshrines. They include Lou Hudson from the Veterans Committee, Larry Costello and Del Harris from the Contributor Committee, Theresa Shank-Grentz from the Women’s Veterans Committee and Radivoj Korac from the International Committee.
“Year after year, we are constantly reminded of the extraordinary and transcendent efforts of the remarkable men and women who have impacted the game of basketball from a global perspective,” said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. “The Class of 2022 is ripe with individuals who have had a significant historical impact on the game we love. We congratulate and thank them for everything they’ve done to better the sport and look forward to honoring them during Enshrinement this fall.”
To be elected, North American and Women’s Committee finalists must receive 18 of 24 votes from the Honors Committee for election into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Direct elect committees are incorporated into the election process to maintain a strong focus on keeping history on the forefront of the voting procedures and to preserve a balance between two eras of basketball.
The Class of 2022 will be enshrined during festivities in Springfield, Mass., the Birthplace of Basketball, on September 9-10, 2022. Ticket packages to the 2022 Enshrinement Ceremony and all the Enshrinement events are on sale now and available at Hoophall.com/events/
For the latest news and updates, follow @hoophall on Twitter and Instagram.
THE NAISMITH MEMORIAL BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2022
North American Committee
HUGH EVANS [Referee] – Evans served as an NBA Official for 28 consecutive years (1973-2001), tallying over 1,900 regular season games, 170 playoff games, 35 NBA Finals games and four NBA All-Star Games. Following his on-court officiating career, Evans worked as the NBA Assistant Supervisor of Officials (2001-03). He is a recipient of the Each One Teach One Community Service Award and is enshrined in the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame as well as the North Carolina A&T Hall of Fame.
MANU GINOBILI [Player] – Ginobili is a two-time NBA All-Star (2005, 2011) and four-time NBA Champion with the San Antonio Spurs (2003, 2005, 2007, 2014). Over his 16-year NBA career, all with the Spurs, the Argentine guard amassed 14,043 points, 4,001 assists, 3,697 rebounds and 1,392 steals and was honored with the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 2008, as well as twice being named to the All-NBA Third Team (2008, 2011). On the international stage, Ginobili helped deliver the first and only Gold Medal in the country’s basketball history at the 2004 Olympics, as well as the bronze at the 2008 games. He joins Bill Bradley as the only two players to have won a EuroLeague title (2001), an NBA championship and an Olympic Gold Medal.
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.
BOB HUGGINS [Coach] – Huggins has been coaching in the collegiate ranks for 45 years, including the last 15 as the head coach at West Virginia University. Over the course of his career, Huggins has led his teams to 25 NCAA Tournament berths, including nine appearances in the Sweet Sixteen (1992, 1993, 1996, 200, 2008, 2010, 2015, 2017, 2018), four trips to the Elite Eight (1992, 1993, 1996, 2010), and two appearances in the NCAA Final Four (1992, 2010). In 16 years as the head coach at the University of Cincinnati (1989-2005), Huggins led the Bearcats to eight Conference USA regular season championships (1996-2002, 2004), four Conference USA Tournament championships (1996, 1998, 2002, 2004), was a three-time Conference USA Coach of the Year (1998-2000) and was honored as the Conference USA Coach of the Decade in 2005. On the national level, he a was tabbed as the Sporting News National Coach of the Year in 2000 and the ESPN.com National Coach of the Year in 2002.
GEORGE KARL [Coach] – Karl spent 27 seasons as a head coach in the NBA, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers (1984-1986), Golden State Warriors (1986-88), Seattle Supersonics (1992-1998), Milwaukee Bucks (1998-2003), Denver Nuggets (2005-2013) and Sacramento Kings (2015-2016). During his career, he guided five different franchises to a total of 22 playoff appearances, led the Supersonics to the NBA Finals (1996), was named the NBA Coach of the Year (2013), and was called upon to be an All-Star Game head coach four times (1994, 1996, 1998, 2010). Karl owns a lifetime coaching record of 1,175-824 (.588), ranking sixth all-time in NBA career wins and posted 12 seasons of 50+ victories and three seasons of 60-plus.
Women’s Committee
SWIN CASH [Player] – Cash is a four-time WNBA All-Star (2003, 2005, 2009, 2011) and two-time Olympic gold medalist (2004, 2012). A true champion, she was a member of three WNBA championship teams during her 15-year career with the Detroit Shock (2003, 2006) and Seattle Storm (2010) as well as two NCAA National Championships at the University of Connecticut (2000, 2002) and a Gold Medal at the 2010 FIBA World Championships. Cash was recognized as one of the 20 best WNBA players of all time in 2016 as she twice named WNBA All-Star Game MVP (2009, 2011) and twice received All-WNBA Second Team (2003-2004) honors. During her collegiate career, she was named the NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player and received Kodak First Team All-America honors in 2002 after UConn won their third national title in program history after finishing the season a perfect 39-0. In 2021, Cash was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.
MARIANNE STANLEY [Coach] – Coaching in the collegiate and professional ranks for a combined 45 years, Stanley currently serves as the head coach of the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. In 22 years as a college coach with Old Dominion (1977-1987), Penn (1987-1989), USC (1989-1993), Stanford (1995-1996) and Cal (1995-1996), Stanley compiled a 416-222 (.652) record, including a NCAA National Championship in 1985, three Final Four appearances (1983, 1985, 1996) and back-to-back AIAW National Titles (1979-1980). She has accumulated numerous Coach of the Year honors, including AIAW National Coach of the Year (1979), Virginia Coach of the Year (1979, 1980, 1981, 1984, 1985), Sun Belt Conference Coach of the Year (1984, 1985), Pac-10 Conference Coach of the Year (1993) and WNBA Coach of the Year (2002). On the national team level, she helped lead the United States to a Goodwill Games Gold Medal (1983) and FIBA World Championship Gold Medal (1986). Stanley has been enshrined in the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2002) and the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame (2010).
LINDSAY WHALEN [Player] – Whalen is a five-time WNBA All-Star (2006, 2011, 2013-2015), four-time WNBA Champion (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017) and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist (2012, 2016). After averaging 11.5 points and 4.9 assists over 15 seasons in the WNBA, she was named to the WNBA First Team three times (2008, 2011, 2013) and was recognized as one of the 20 best WNBA players of all time in 2016. Whalen ranks third all-time in assists (2,345) and led the league in total assists five times (2007, 2011-2015) and assists per game on three occasions (2008, 2011, 2012). During her collegiate career at University of Minnesota, Whalen led the Golden Gophers to the NCAA Final Four in 2004 and was twice named a finalist for the Naismith Award (2003, 2004) and Wade Trophy (2003, 2004). She also received numerous accolades for her on-court performance, including being named to the Kodak/WBCA All-America Team (2003-2004), USBWA All-America Team (2002-2004), AP Second Team All-America Team (2003-2004) and the All-Big Ten First Team (2002-2004).Whalen currently serves as the head coach of the women’s basketball program at her alma mater.
THE NAISMITH MEMORIAL BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME DIRECT ELECT MEMBERS
Veterans Direct Elect Committee
LOU HUDSON [Player] – Recognized posthumously, Hudson was a six-time NBA All-Star (1969-1974) and averaged 20.2 points and 4.4 rebounds per game in 13 NBA seasons. The athletic shooting guard played 11 seasons with the St. Louis/Atlanta Hawks (1966-1977) and has his jersey No. 23 retired by the franchise. A native of Greensboro, North Carolina, Hudson attended the University of Minnesota where he was part of the first African American recruiting class in school history and went on to receive All-American honors and had his jersey No. 14 retired. He is also a member of the Minnesota Hall of Fame as well as the North Carolina Hall of Fame.
Direct Elect Contributor Committee
LARRY COSTELLO [Contributor] – Recognized posthumously, Costello was a six-time NBA All-Star (1958-1962, 1965), a member of the 1967 World Champion Philadelphia 76ers and coached the Milwaukee Bucks to the 1971 NBA title, as well as a Finals appearance in 1974. As a player, he averaged 12.2 points and 4.9 assists per game over 12 NBA seasons, earning All-NBA Second Team in 1961. Known as the last two-handed set shooter, the point guard led the NBA in free throw percentage twice (.881 in 1963; .877 in 1965). As a coach, he was one of the first people to employ a working, accountable assistant coach and employ videotape to analyze the game. He also traveled extensively for the U.S. State Department, lecturing in Germany, Africa, Asia and Europe. Costello is also a member of the Niagara University Hall of Fame, Syracuse Sports Hall of Fame, Greater Buffalo Hall of Fame and the New York State Hall of Fame.
DEL HARRIS [Contributor] –Harris has dedicated his life to basketball, serving as a coach, mentor and tireless advocate for the game. In his more than 50-year coaching career, he coached every level of the sport, ranging from junior high hoops to the NBA. Harris is deeply respected by players, coaches and executives alike, having earned the Jerry Colangelo Award for Leadership and Character in 2010, the Coach John Wooden “Keys to Excellence” Award in 2014 and the Basketball Hall of Fame’s John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. For over 35 years, he served as both a treasured assistant coach and head coach of several franchises including the Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, Chicago Bulls, and New Jersey Nets. Harris led the Houston Rockers to the NBA Finals in 1981 and was recognized as the NBA Coach of the Year in 1995 while at the helm of the Los Angeles Lakers. Harris currently serves as Vice President of the Mavericks G League affiliate, the Texas Legends, while providing game analysis for the Mavericks on Fox Sports Southwest. He is also a member of the NAIA Basketball Hall of Fame and Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame.
Women’s Veterans Direct Elect Committee
THERESA SHANK-GRENTZ [Player] – Shank-Grentz was a member of three consecutive AIAW National Championship teams and was a three-time All-American at Immaculata University from 1972-74. The 1974 title game was the first ever live coverage of a women’s basketball game in the United States. She scored over 1,000 career points at Immaculata, including a record 104 points and 76 rebounds in the 1973 AIAW Tournament. Shank-Grentz was named the AMF Collegiate Player of the Year in 1974 and has her jersey No. 12 retired by the university. She also scored over 1,200 points as a prep player at Cardinal O’Hara High School in Springfield, PA, and was a three-time All-Conference Philadelphia Catholic League.
International Direct Elect Committee
RADIVOJ KORAC [Player] – Recognized posthumously, Korac is known as Yugoslavia’s first basketball superstar, helping lead the country to the silver medal at the 1968 Olympics after leading all players in averaging 23.6 points per game during the Games. He also led Yugoslavia to silver medals in FIBA World Cup play in 1963 and 1967. He still holds the EuroLeague’s all-time single-game scoring record with 99 points in a game vs. Alviks during the 1964-65 season. Korac tragically passed away in a car accident in 1969 at the age of 30 and has been remembered as the namesake of FIBA’s Korac Cup in 1971 and Serbia’s Korac Cup in 2002. He was named one of FIBA’s Greatest Players in 1991, was enshrined in the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2007 and was named one of the 50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors in 2008.
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 #22HoopClass or call 1-877-4HOOPLA.
ATLANTA’S TRAE YOUNG TO RECEIVE FEBRUARY NBA CARES COMMUNITY ASSIST AWARD
– NBA and Kaiser Permanente to Donate $10,000 to the Trae Young Family Foundation –
NEW YORK, April 2, 2022 – The NBA today announced that Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young is the winner of the February NBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by Kaiser Permanente in recognition of ongoing efforts to normalize the conversation around mental health and promote overall well-being in Atlanta and Oklahoma. The monthly honor recognizes a player who best demonstrates the passion that the league and NBA players share for giving back to their communities.
Founded in 2019, the Trae Young Family Foundation was formed with the goal of raising awareness, resources and support around mental health issues, specifically for children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and PTSD as a result of cyber and social media bullying. As part of their efforts to inspire greater well-being, the Trae Young Family Foundation donated $4 million to establish and build The Young Family Athletic Center (YFAC) in his native Norman, Oklahoma, which began breaking ground in 2021. The facility will provide children a safe space for recreation, education and wellness, and afford every family in Norman access to the facility and the opportunities the Young family envisions for the community through new scholarships.
In addition, Young supported the Hawks’ new partnership with Silence the Shame, a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating mental health stigma, reducing health disparities and improving suicide rates among vulnerable populations. To tip off the campaign, he joined singer-songwriter Chlöe in a Teen Mental Wellness Courtside Chat with more than 1,8000 youth to discuss their experiences with mental health and provide ways to cope with stress. Young also partnered with Snapchat to aid the platform’s support of young voices on social media, particularly by addressing the need to increase support around the mental health and well-being of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth. As part of their efforts, Young and the social media platform have worked with Active Minds, an organization that advocates for young people at high schools and colleges across the country, and created an in-app resource hub to provide tools for young people to address their own mental health and assist friends and family. He is also featured in Trident’s campaign around mental health awareness.
“Since my first year in the NBA I dreamed of building an organization that could help me create lasting, sustainable resources for kids in my communities,” said Young. “I hope the Young Family Athletic Center is just the beginning and that I can continue to use my platform to advocate for others.”
Young will be presented with the award on Saturday, April 2 ahead of the Hawks’ matchup against the Brooklyn Nets at 7:30 p.m. ET. The NBA and Kaiser Permanente will donate $10,000 to the Trae Young Family Foundation as his non-profit beneficiary of choice.
The NBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by Kaiser Permanente honors the standard set by NBA legend David Robinson, who improved the community piece by piece. To learn more, please visit https://communityassist.nba.
About NBA Cares
NBA Cares is the league’s global social responsibility program that brings people together through the game of basketball and helps shine a light on important social issues, including racial, gender, LGBTQ & health equity, education, physical and mental health & wellness, environmental responsibility, and youth, family & community development. NBA Cares programs and participants have provided more than 5.9 million hours of hands-on service and created more than 2,000 places where kids and families can live, learn or play in communities around the world. Internationally, NBA Cares has created more than 353 places where kids and families can live, learn or play in 40 countries and territories.
ESPN’s NBA75 Celebration Game: Special Alternate Presentation of Brooklyn Nets vs. New York Knicks Contest on April 6 Inspired By League’s Storied History
ESPN Production to Capture the Styles and Presentations of NBA Broadcasts in 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and Present Day
Traditional Nets vs. Knicks Game Broadcast to Air on ESPN
ESPN today announced it will televise the NBA75 Celebration Game presented by State Farm – an alternate presentation of the Brooklyn Nets vs. New York Knicks contest on Wednesday, April 6, inspired by the league’s storied history. ESPN will honor the NBA 75th Anniversary Season by producing a compelling broadcast that mirrors the NBA television styles and presentations of decades past, including the 1960s on ABC, the 1970s and 1980s on CBS and the 1990s on NBC, as well as representation from present day. The NBA75 Celebration Game broadcast begins at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and the traditional game broadcast will air on ESPN.
The NBA75 Celebration Game will include an impressive list of high-profile special guests who will join the broadcast either on site at Madison Square Garden or remotely. Guests will include several members of the NBA75 player list and Hall of Fame coaches and broadcasters who have been integral to the game through the eras.
More NBA75 Celebration Game highlights:
- Custom graphics updated per era, including starting lineups, standings, stats, team logos, venue information and copyright language;
- Classic network theme music by era, including the memorable NBA on NBC music from the 1990s;
- Popular music from every decade used during highlights and in and out of commercial breaks;
- NBA Finals broadcast team of Curt Gowdy Media Award-winner Mike Breen, Jeff Van Gundy, Mark Jackson and reporter Lisa Salters to provide commentary;
- Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Hubie Brown, celebrating his 50th season in professional basketball, to join the broadcast. Brown will also serve as the analyst for the traditional game broadcast with Ryan Ruocco and Cassidy Hubbarth on ESPN.
Tim Corrigan, Vice President, ESPN Production:
“We’re taking fans on a journey through the evolution of this vibrant, culturally impactful league while also pairing the content with the iconic performers of today. We’re excited to pay homage to the networks that paved the way for what we have been doing for the past two decades at ESPN. Regardless of age or era, if you love basketball, there is something for you in this broadcast.”
Example of scoreboard graphics to be used in broadcast:
Top left: 1960s (1st Quarter); top right: 1970s (2nd Quarter); bottom left: 1980s (3rd Quarter); bottom right: 1990s (4th Quarter)
ESPN has been broadcasting NBA games since the 2002-03 season. The NBA75 Celebration Game continues ESPN’s leadership in the alternate presentation space which dates back to the mid-1990s.
NBA Countdown will precede the traditional Nets vs. Knicks telecast at 7 p.m. on ESPN.
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