ClutchBasket:Basketball News

 

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić lead the Eastern and Western Conferences, respectively, in the third fan returns of NBA All-Star Voting 2025 presented by AT&T.

NBA All-Star Voting 2025 presented by AT&T will conclude on Monday, Jan. 20 at 11:59 p.m. ET.  Tomorrow (Friday, Jan. 17) and Monday will be the final two “3-for-1 Days,” when each vote by fans with NBA ID counts three times.

The starters for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game will be revealed by TNT on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. ET.  NBA ID members account for 50% of the vote to determine the starters, and current NBA players and a media panel account for 25% each.

In the third fan returns, Antetokounmpo continues to lead the East frontcourt and is followed by Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum in second place and New York Knicks center-forward Karl-Anthony Towns in third place.  At East guard, the Charlotte Hornets’ LaMelo Ball and the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Donovan Mitchell remain in first and second place, respectively.

In the West, the top three frontcourt spots are held by Jokić (No. 1), Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (No. 2) and Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (No. 3), with James moving ahead of Durant by 92,444 votes.  The Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander still leads among West guards and the Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry is in second place.

Below and attached are the top 10 vote-getters by position group in the third fan returns.

 

 

 

FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2025 inductees unveiled

JANUARY 16, 2025 MIES (Switzerland) - Spanish legend Pau Gasol, multi-time champion Dawn Staley of the USA and venerable coach Mike Krzyzewski headline the nine inductees to the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Every member of the Class of 2025 will be honored at an enshrinement ceremony on May 17 that will take place alongside the FIBA Mid-Term Congress in Bahrain. A total of eight players and one coach are being recognized for their stellar individual contributions to the sport. Gasol was a colossus on the floor for Spain, inspiring unprecedented success with his towering performances and leadership. He achieved superstardom status at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2006 in Japan when he earned MVP honors alongside winning Spain's first-ever major trophy. A five-time Olympian, the center was Spain's flagbearer at London 2012 and led his nation to three medals at the Games. These accomplishments also came alongside three titles at the FIBA EuroBasket, as well as two NBA Championships with the Los Angeles Lakers. Dawn Staley, a floor general for the USA during her playing days, lifted the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup titles in 1998, in Germany, and in 2002 in China. The point guard played at three Olympic Games and conquered the gold medal on each occasion. She stepped out in 1996, 2000, and in Athens in 2004, when she was the flagbearer for her country. Staley won a total of 10 gold medals as an athlete, before transitioning to the sidelines. As the head coach, Staley steered the USA to gold at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2018 and at the 2020 Olympic Games. Mike Krzyzewski masterminded USA's effort to return to the summit following a blistering defeat in the Semi-Finals of the 2006 World Cup. He was at the helm of the star-laden Team USA that was nicknamed Redeem Team and conquered the Gold Medal at the 2008 Olympics and followed up by steering a Kevin Durant-led USA to World Cup glory in 2010, in Turkey. 'Coach K', as he is affectionately known, led USA to one more World Cup title and two more Olympic gold medals before stepping down as his nation's head coach in 2016 to focus exclusively on his illustrious NCAA career, where he has no fewer than five championships. Andrew Bogut came into prominence at the 2003 FIBA U19 World Cup, when he led Australia to their only, for now, gold medal at the competition. The big man, famed for his defensive prowess and passing skills, stepped out at two editions of the FIBA Basketball World Cup with the Boomers – one early in his career in 2006 and then signing off at the 2019 edition. He was also a three-time Olympian featuring in 2004, 2008, and 2016. Bogut starred for the Golden State Warriors when they conquered the NBA title in 2015. The second female player on the 2025 list of inductees is Ticha Penicheiro of Portugal. The highly acclaimed guard won a EuroLeague Women title in 2007, the EuroCup Women in 2006, and a WNBA Championship in 2005 - alongside seven national titles in seven different countries. Meanwhile three-time Olympian Leonor Borrell is considered as the best female Cuban player ever. Featuring at four editions of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, she propelled her country to a bronze medal in 1990 and was the top scorer of the 1986 tournament, averaging an impressive 26.7 points per game. Alphonse Bilé of Côte d'Ivoire showcased his remarkable leadership by captaining his nation for eight years and linking his name to both of their winning campaigns in AfroBasket. He led The Elephants to their first-ever AfroBasket gold conquest, in 1981, and then proudly into the first-ever FIBA Basketball World Cup a year later. Côte d'Ivoire conquered their second and only other AfroBasket title in 1985, with Bilé as their head coach. Fadi El Khatib was an incredible centerpiece for Lebanon for many years, hitting the court at three consecutive FIBA Basketball World Cup editions during 2002, 2006 and 2010. He played a key role in helping his country achieve three silver medal finishes in 5 FIBA Asia Cup appearances. Ratko Radovanovic was a talented youngster on a team of superstars who achieved legendary status in European basketball. Yugoslavia conquered the FIBA EuroBasket crown in 1977 - his first major tournament at senior level - the World Cup in 1978 and Olympic Gold in 1980. The skilled center conquered in total nine medals with Yugoslavia, as one of the most decorated players in the game and a prime member of the elite club of players to have achieved the triple crown of a World Cup title, Olympic Gold, and EuroBasket title. Here is the full list of inductees that make up the 2025 Class of the FIBA Hall of Fame: Players - Alphonse Bilé (Côte d'Ivoire) - Andrew Bogut (Australia) - Leonor Borrell (Cuba) - Pau Gasol (Spain) - El Khatib (Lebanon) - Ticha Penicheiro (Portugal) - Ratko Radovanovic (Serbia) - Dawn Staley (USA) Coach - Mike Krzyzewski (USA)

PACERS’ BENNEDICT MATHURIN SUSPENDED NEW YORK, Jan. 15, 2025 – Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin has been suspended one game without pay for making inappropriate contact with and verbally abusing a game official, it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. The incident occurred with 3:58 remaining in the fourth quarter of the Pacers’ 127-117 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Jan. 14 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mathurin will serve his suspension on Jan. 16 when the Pacers visit the Detroit Pistons. NBA ANNOUNCES GAME SCHEDULE ADJUSTMENTS   NEW YORK, Jan. 15, 2025 – The NBA announced today the rescheduling of two games that were postponed last week due to the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles and another game that was postponed due to weather conditions in Atlanta. Additionally, six other scheduling changes were made to accommodate the rescheduling.   Below are the nine changes to the NBA game schedule: GAME PREVIOUS NEW SCHEDULE DATE    DATE    LOCAL ET Charlotte at L.A. Lakers Thu. 1/9 Wed. 2/19 7:00PM 10:00PM Houston at Atlanta Sat. 1/11 Tue. 1/28 7:30PM 7:30PM Charlotte at LA Clippers Sat. 1/11 Sun. 3/16 4:00PM 7:00PM Chicago at LA Clippers Tue. 1/21 Mon. 1/20 7:30PM 10:30PM Washington at Utah Thu. 1/23 Wed. 3/19 7:00PM 9:00PM Utah at L.A. Lakers Tue. 2/11 Mon. 2/10 7:30PM 10:30PM Washington at LA Clippers Sun. 3/16 Thu. 1/23 7:30PM 10:30PM Washington at Portland Tue. 3/18 Mon. 3/17 7:00PM 10:00PM LA Clippers at Utah Wed. 3/19 Thu. 2/13 7:00PM 9:00PM   The date for the San Antonio Spurs at Lakers game, previously scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 11, will be announced at a later time. NBA ANNOUNCES 2025 TEAM SALES & MARKETING AWARDS   – Defending NBA Champion Boston Celtics Honored with Team of the Year Award –   – Milwaukee Bucks Receive Inclusion Leadership Award; Toronto Raptors Selected for Team Innovation Award –   NEW YORK, Jan. 14, 2025 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced winners of the 2025 NBA Team Sales & Marketing Awards yesterday at the league’s annual NBA Sales & Marketing Meeting in Miami.    The Boston Celtics were presented with the NBA Team of the Year Award for their success across several business areas, including team-record revenue in ticketing, partnerships, digital content and merchandise, as well as their community initiatives.  Additional team award recipients include the Milwaukee Bucks (Inclusion Leadership Award) and Toronto Raptors (Team Innovation Award).  Cleveland Cavaliers Staffing & Events Manager Cindy Norman and Vice President of Social Impact and Equity Pam Frasco were recognized with the Pete Winemiller Guest Experience Innovation Award and Values of the Game Award, respectively.  The late Jim Morris, former Vice Chairman of Pacers Sports and Entertainment, was also honored with a special Values of the Game Award in recognition of his career achievements, which Pacers Sports and Entertainment CEO Mel Raines accepted on behalf of his family.   All 30 teams had the opportunity to submit a nomination in each category for awards recognizing exceptional work from Oct. 2023 – Oct. 2024, with a committee of league and team executives choosing the winners.   “Year after year, our teams continue to raise the bar when it comes to delivering elevated fan experiences and driving impact in their markets,” said Jonathan Tillman, NBA Executive Vice President, Head of Team Marketing and Business Operations (TMBO). “This year’s NBA Sales & Marketing Award winners distinguished themselves with a high level of creativity, innovation and passion that resulted in amazing work that benefitted fans, partners and stakeholders alike.”   NBA Team of the Year: Boston Celtics The Celtics’ NBA record 18th NBA championship coincided with incredible off-court success last year, resulting in the NBA Team of the Year Award recognition.  They launched a multi-year deal with Amica Mutual Insurance – their exclusive Auto, Home, and Life Insurance Partner – that included a jersey patch partnership.  The team experienced significant growth across several fan engagement categories, including record viewership of Celtics games on their regional sports network and more than 880 million global video views across social and digital platforms.  The in-arena atmosphere at TD Garden was best-in-class as they sold out every home game of the 2023-24 season, had a 99% season ticket renewal rate and became the first NBA team to offer AR enhanced commemorative tickets for the 2024 NBA Finals.  A nearly 19% increase in sales on Celtics.com/shop helped the team set a new team merchandise sales record.    The team’s impact extended into the local community through efforts with Curbside Care, a healthcare equity initiative between the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation and Boston Medical Center, a first-of-its-kind mobile care unit.  The Celtics also advocated for legislation that would extend the jurisdiction of juvenile courts to 20 years old and announced the creation of an early education school within a public housing facility in Providence, R.I.  As part of a commitment to delivering and providing greater access to youth basketball programing, the Celtics expanded their Jr. Celtics Academy (JCA) presented by New Balance offerings, including launching JCA All-Girls Showcases presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods.  Amica Mutual Insurance also became the entitlement partner for JCA Clinics.   NBA Inclusion Leadership Award: Milwaukee Bucks The Bucks received the NBA Inclusion Leadership Award for their continued commitment to creating development opportunities and supporting individuals of different backgrounds.  Their annual “System Impacted Rotational Program” provided 10-12 individuals from the Milwaukee County Community Reintegration Center (through the Huber Work Release program) with hands-on training and work experience at games and events at Fiserv Forum.  Eight program participants have received full-time positions with the Bucks since 2021.  As part of the team’s partnership with Beyond Vision, the Bucks continue to offer employment opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired as they take on customer service responsibilities for events and games.  Through the Marquette Fellowship Program, students of diverse backgrounds received learning opportunities and exposure to careers in sports and entertainment, including participating in projects with departments within the Bucks organization.  Fellows were involved with Bucks employee resource groups, which offer opportunities to network, develop and build leadership skills.  Since the program launched in 2022, all fellows have been extended as summer interns for the team.   NBA Team Innovation Award: Toronto Raptors The Raptors secured the NBA Team Innovation Award after spearheading an industry-leading Gen AI Innovation Program that features key projects designed to improve efficiency.  Notably, they launched the world’s first AI-powered declarative video editing system, which has streamlined the editing process for content and highlights.  Additionally, their League Rules Assistant technology incorporates a specialized Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipeline that contextualizes historical NBA initiatives to help identify promotional opportunities to better engage fans.  The Raptors demonstrated how NBA teams can use AI and cutting-edge technology to find synergy with existing workflows.    Pete Winemiller Guest Experience Innovation Award: Cindy Norman, Cleveland Cavaliers The Pete Winemiller Guest Experience Innovation Award was awarded to Cleveland Cavaliers Staffing & Events Manager Cindy Norman, whose 50-year legacy with the team began in 1974 as an usher. Cindy’s leadership, unique perspective on guest service and ability to innovate and problem-solve in creative and compassionate ways has created a family dynamic and atmosphere at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.  Among the many ideas and efforts she led are the development of noise-dampening headphones for a young fan with autism, introducing the “snaking” seating arrangement to help fans with mobility challenges and developing a new-hire training program.  The award pays tribute to the late Pete Winemiller, former Senior Vice President of Guest Relations for the Oklahoma City Thunder.     NBA Values of the Game Award: Pam Frasco, Cleveland Cavaliers Cleveland Cavaliers Vice President of Social Impact and Equity and Executive Director for the Cavaliers Community Foundation Pam Frasco was given the NBA Values of the Game Award, which recognizes an individual who embodies the NBA’s mission of inspiring and connecting people through the game of basketball.  In her more than 20 years with the team, Pam has personified the NBA’s mission through her work overseeing the team’s community relations efforts focusing on driving impact in areas such as education, health and wellness, community investment, and social justice and equity.  Under her leadership, the team has expanded its social impact and equity division from three to 12 members; completed court refurbishment initiatives in Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Brazil; provided meals to more than 300,000 individuals impacted by food insecurity; established a global partnership with the Special Olympics consisting of ambassador programs and clinics; and hosted the 3rd annual Hoops After Dark program in collaboration with the City of Cleveland, which included basketball and life skills workshops for more than 200 young men as part of the mayor’s violence prevention strategy.  Additionally, the Cavaliers Foundation established the Wine & Gold Gala, which helped raise more than $1 million in funding for the second consecutive year.    NBA Values of the Game Award: Jim Morris, Indiana Pacers The late Jim Morris, who served as Vice Chairman of Pacers Sports and Entertainment, received a special NBA Values of the Game Award in celebration of his life and career.  Morris joined Pacers Sports and Entertainment in 2007, after a career in public service where he left a lasting impact on the local Indianapolis community and beyond with his relentless desire to support others.  He also helped launch the Indiana Sports Corp., which played a pivotal role in solidifying the overall sports ecosystem in the state.  He devoted much of his life to serving his community and took great pride in seeing Indianapolis develop into a passionate basketball market as he was at the center of elevating Pacers Sports & Entertainment into a first-class organization.  Morris cared deeply about the Pacers and Fever and their role in inspiring and connecting people.  Morris is remembered for having the unique ability to bring people together and was known for hosting gatherings of community, business and political leaders prior to Pacers games that uplifted those around him.   The Pacers hung a banner at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in 2024 in recognition of Morris’ legacy.

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TIMBERWOLVES’ ANTHONY EDWARDS FINED

NEW YORK, Jan. 13, 2025 – Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards has been fined $50,000 for making obscene gestures toward a game official, it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations.

The incidents occurred with 1:26 remaining in the third quarter of the Timberwolves’ 127-125 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Jan. 11 at Target Center.

ROCKETS-HAWKS GAME POSTPONED

NEW YORK, Jan. 11, 2025 – The National Basketball Association game scheduled for this afternoon between the Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena has been postponed.  The decision was made in consultation with local officials and to prioritize the safety of the players, fans and staff due to the severe weather and hazardous icy conditions in the Atlanta area.

The date for the rescheduled game will be announced at a later time.

SPURS-LAKERS AND HORNETS-CLIPPERS GAMES POSTPONED

 

NEW YORK, Jan. 10, 2025 – The National Basketball Association games scheduled for tomorrow between the San Antonio Spurs and Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena and between the Charlotte Hornets and LA Clippers at Intuit Dome have been postponed due to the ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles area.  The dates for the rescheduled games will be announced at a later time.

 

The NBA and the Clippers and Lakers organizations have been in communication with local officials in Los Angeles and Inglewood about the ongoing situation in the Los Angeles area and the game postponements ensure no resources will be diverted from the wildfire response efforts.

 

The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association are donating one million dollars for immediate relief to the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen and other organizations to support those affected by this disaster and are working with the Lakers and Clippers on ways to support longer term assistance and rebuilding efforts.  To learn more, visit cares.nba.com/wildfire-relief-efforts.

HORNETS-LAKERS GAME POSTPONED

 

NEW YORK, Jan. 9, 2025 – The National Basketball Association game scheduled for tonight between the Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena has been postponed due to the ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles area.  The date for the rescheduled game will be announced at a later time.

 

The entire NBA family sends its thoughts and support to the community of Los Angeles during this challenging time.  We are grateful for the thousands of local firefighters and first responders who have demonstrated enormous bravery.  Our prayers remain with those affected by the unimaginable devastation caused by the wildfires.    

FIBA and Schelde Sports extend partnership for premium backstop units until 2028

JANUARY 9, 2025 MIES (Switzerland) - FIBA has renewed its partnership with Official Technical Supplier Schelde Sports until 2028 to continue providing best in class backstop units for FIBA competitions over the upcoming four-year period. This extension solidifies a highly valued collaboration, with Schelde Sports set to supply premium backstop units at the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 in Cyprus, Finland, Latvia, and Poland; the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 in Germany; the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 in Qatar and for the Olympic Basketball Tournament during the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Owned by the ABEO Group, Schelde Sports has been an Official Technical Supplier since 2017, after successful collaborations at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2014 and FIBA EuroBasket 2015. Schelde Sports has also served as the official global backstop supplier for FIBA 3x3 since 2013. FIBA is dedicated to providing players with state-of-the-art equipment while offering Global Partners exceptional opportunities to showcase their brands. Schelde Sports has consistently delivered both at the highest standard with for example their first-ever integration of LED screens into the backstop unit paddings at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis (left) and Olivier Estèves, CEO of ABEO Group

As a FIBA Official Technical Supplier, Schelde Sports is also an approved partner of the FIBA Equipment & Venue Centre, which guarantees the highest level of quality, testing and innovation related to basketball equipment and technology. Olivier Estèves, CEO of ABEO Group, said: "Schelde Sports and FIBA work together to promote the game of basketball worldwide. Our relationship with FIBA shows our dedication to the game and our drive for constant innovation. We are pleased to watch our backstops shine at prestigious events, like last year's Olympic basketball tournaments in our home country. Future plans include supporting basketball growth with cutting-edge products that will improve athlete and fan experiences and we look forward strengthening our support and services to FIBA over the following four years, with the FIBA World Cup 2027 in Qatar and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games serving as significant milestones.” Frank Leenders, FIBA Media and Marketing Services Director General stated: "We are delighted with the way our relationship with Schelde Sports has gone from strength to strength. They are a hugely valued member of the FIBA community of partners who are playing a leading role in helping us deliver unprecedented successes at our events. "FIBA’s dedication to providing premium equipment which players can rely on, is helped enormously by working with high-performing suppliers such as Schelde Sports. We are looking forward to working together to continue delivering best in class products and supporting FIBA’s pinnacle competitions worldwide." Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić continue to lead the Eastern and Western Conferences, respectively, in the second fan returns of NBA All-Star Voting 2025 presented by AT&T. Antetokounmpo (East frontcourt), Jokić (West frontcourt), the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (West guard) and the Charlotte Hornets’ LaMelo Ball (East guard) remain the leaders at their respective position groups.  The Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry has moved into second place among West guards. Fans with NBA ID account for 50% of the vote to determine the starters for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.  Current NBA players and a media panel account for 25% each. Tomorrow (Friday, Jan. 10) marks the next “3-for-1 Day,” when each vote by NBA ID members will count three times.  The next fan voting update will be shared on Thursday, Jan. 16, and voting will conclude on Monday, Jan. 20 at 11:59 p.m. ET.  TNT will reveal the NBA All-Star Game starters on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. ET. Below and attached are the top 10 vote-getters by position group in the second fan returns.     MANATÍ CON NUEVO APODERADO   MANATÍ, 8 de enero de 2025 - Las Atenienses de Manatí podrían contar con un nuevo apoderado en la figura del vicepresidente de Distribuidora Ferdoc, Doel Ocasio, quien se encuentra bajo evaluación por el Comité de Nuevos Apoderados del Baloncesto Superior Nacional Femenino (BSNF).   “Se interesaron en entrar porque, aunque llevan muchos años siendo fanáticos del BSNF, en el 2024 vieron que la cosa empezó a cambiar y que se empezó a mover la rueda”, relató Fernando Quiñones, director de torneo de la liga femenina.   En la pasada temporada, las Atenienses jugaron para marca de 9-7, pero fueron eliminadas en los cuartos de final por las Ganaderas de Hatillo en el máximo de tres encuentros.   “En femenino, Manatí es una plaza espectacular, con un alcalde espectacular, comprometido, con un comercio comprometido con el equipo y yo creo que Manatí está en buenas manos con este grupo, así que le deseamos mucho éxito”, dijo el presidente del organismo, Luis G. Miranda Ramos.   Las Atenienses cuentan con una solida reserva, encabezada por Jackie Benítez, India Pagán y Kaela Hilaire. OFICIAL: APRUEBAN TRASLADO DE MOROVIS A CAGUAS La Junta de Gobierno del BSNF aprobó el traslado de los Montañeras de Morovis para el torneo 2025.   John Herrero y Omar Vargas fueron aceptados como los nuevos apoderados. De inmediato, sometieron una solicitud de traslado de las Montañeras a Caguas y fue aprobada, confirmando el regreso de las Criollas a la competencia en la próxima temporada.   “Caguas tiene muchas jugadoras y pueblos limítrofes. En esa parte yo sé que ellos van a hacer un trabajo espectacular para llevar a todas esas niñas”, comentó Miranda Ramos.   El grupo de empresarios también opera a los campeones del torneo masculino, Criollos de Caguas.   “Yo sé que, desde ahora, en el comienzo de la temporada de BSN ellos van a insertar también el BSNF en el proyecto. Estoy bien contento con esa movida”, agregó.   Las nuevas Criollas contarían con la estelar armadora y capitana de la Selección de Puerto Rico, Pamela Rosado, así como Katie Villarini, Keiry Huertas, Lyannis Torres y Michelle González. En la pasada temporada, el quinteto jugó para marca de 9-7 y concluyó en la cuarta posición de la serie regular. Posteriormente, Morovis se eliminó en cuartos de final, el mínimo de dos desafíos, por las Explosivas de Moca.   Caguas contó por última ocasión con un equipo de baloncesto femenino en la temporada 2007, donde culminó con récord de 6-15 previo a pasar a Aguas Buenas, Gurabo y permanecer hoy día como las campeonas Cangrejeras de Santurce. EL 2024 FUE UN AÑO DE CRECIMIENTO El Presidente del BSNF, Luis G. Miranda participó de un podcast publicado el domingo en la cuenta de YouTube de la Liga. En el mismo, definió la temporada 2024 como una de crecimiento.   Entre lo que mencionó como logros del recién culminado año destaca la gala de exaltación del Salón de la Fama del baloncesto femenino puertorriqueño y su sede en el Museo del Deporte Puertorriqueño en Guaynabo, la coronación de las Cangrejeras como nuevas campeonas, la llegada del BSNF a la región sur con las nuevas Monarcas de Juana Díaz, la entrada de una mujer como apoderada en la figura de Claudia Ramos Zorrilla (Gigantes de Carolina) y la llegada de las Atléticas de San Germán, bajo la administración de José ‘Cheo’ Rivera, que también corre el quinteto masculino.   “Otros compañeros de BSN me están gritando ‘yo también quiero uno’. Ahora hay mucha pelea y ahora todo el mundo quiere. Le estoy diciendo no hay cama pa’ tanta gente, pero vamos poco a poco”, contó.   Mientras, de cara al siguiente campeonato, Miranda reveló estar trabajando en tres proyectos.   “A mi me gustaría poner en las manos de los apoderados una sola compañía que esté a cargo del ‘streaming’ para darle una misma calidad a todos los partidos. También, me gustaría aumentar los juegos de televisión. Comparando con lo que transmite BSN en cuestión de tiempo y espacio, y cantidad de juego, nosotros no estamos tan mal, por lo poco que estamos jugando. Ahora, yo tengo que hacer el análisis si le aumentamos dos semanas al torneo, que puede conllevar que le aumente cuatro juegos más a cada equipo, entonces ahí sumarle más juegos por televisión”, concluyó.  Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić and Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo lead the Western and Eastern Conferences, respectively, in the first fan returns of NBA All-Star Voting 2025 presented by AT&T.   Joining Jokić (West frontcourt) and Antetokounmpo (East frontcourt) as top vote-getters at their respective position groups are the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (West guard) and the Charlotte Hornets’ LaMelo Ball (East guard).   Fans account for 50% of the vote to determine the starters for the NBA All-Star Game.  Current NBA players and a media panel account for 25% each.   Tomorrow (Friday, Jan. 3) marks the next “3-for-1 Day,” when each fan vote will count three times.  The next fan voting update will be shared on Thursday, Jan. 9.   Below are the top 10 vote-getters by position group in the first fan returns.       NBA ANNOUNCES PENALTIES FROM HEAT-ROCKETS GAME   NEW YORK, Dec. 31, 2024 – Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson has been suspended two games without pay and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier has been suspended one game without pay for their involvement in an on-court altercation, it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations.    In addition, Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green has been fined $35,000 and Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro has been fined $25,000 for their roles in the altercation. Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka has been fined $50,000 for verbal abuse of a game official and failing to leave the court in a timely manner following his technical foul and ejection. Rockets assistant coach Ben Sullivan was also ejected.   The incident, which occurred with 35.7 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter of the Heat’s 104-100 win over the Rockets at Toyota Center on Dec. 29, began when Herro leaned into the midsection of Thompson.  Thompson responded by grabbing Herro by his jersey and throwing him to the floor in a forceful manner.  Green and Rozier then entered the altercation, which resulted in a continued escalation of the situation.   Thompson, Rozier, Green and Herro were assessed technical fouls and ejected from the game.    Separately from the altercation, Rockets guard Fred VanVleet has been fined $35,000 for making reckless contact with a game official, which occurred with 47.1 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.   Thompson will serve his suspension on Jan. 1 when the Rockets host the Dallas Mavericks and Jan. 3 when the Rockets host the Boston Celtics.  Rozier will serve his suspension on Jan. 1 when the Heat host the New Orleans Pelicans.    To view the incident, click here. Viewership Update: NBA on ESPN Platforms Up Five Percent From Last Year Most-Watched NBA Christmas in Five Years; Up 87 Percent From Last Christmas NBA Countdown Audience Up 22 Percent vs. Last Season This season, NBA viewership on ESPN platforms is up five percent from the same time last year, according to Nielsen. Through 34 games, NBA games on ESPN platforms are averaging 1,959,000 viewers. Audience gains were driven by the five games on Christmas, which was ESPN’s most-watched NBA Christmas in five years, since 2019. An average of 5,335,000 viewers watched five games, spanning 13 consecutive hours. It was also virtually even with viewership from 2019 (5,337,000). The audience for all five NBA Christmas games were up from their comparable games last Christmas. The Los Angeles Lakers victory over the Golden State Warriors in primetime averaged 7,909,000 viewers, up 511 percent from last year’s Philadelphia vs. Miami game. The Lakers vs. Warriors broadcast peaked with 8,447,000 viewers at 10:30 p.m. ET. 13-Year High Christmas action began at noon with the San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks game, which averaged nearly five million viewers (4,997,000). ESPN’s coverage included its Dunk the Halls animated alt-cast, which contributed to the Spurs vs. Knicks contest becoming the most-watched noon Christmas game in 13 years, since 2011. It was up 101 percent from the Knicks vs. Milwaukee Bucks game last year. Late-Night Record The late-night game between the Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets set a Christmas record. The broadcast, which began at 10:30 p.m., was the most-watched late-night game ever on Christmas. It averaged 3,898,000 viewers, up 165 percent from the Suns vs. Dallas Mavericks game last season. The Philadelphia 76ers victory over the defending NBA Champion Boston Celtics averaged 5,242,000 viewers, up five percent from last year’s comparable game between the Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers in 2023. Additionally, the Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves matchup averaged 4,451,000 viewers, up eight percent from last year’s Golden State Warriors vs. Denver Nuggets game. For the first time, all five games were available on ESPN, ABC, Disney+ and ESPN+. The San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks Dunk the Halls animated alt-cast also aired on ESPN2, Disney+ and ESPN+. NBA Countdown Audience Up Double Digits NBA Countdown, ESPN and ABC’s NBA pregame show, is averaging 867,000 viewers through 17 episodes during the 2024-25 regular season. That is up 22 percent from this point last season. The 7:30 p.m. edition of NBA Countdown on ABC and ESPN this Christmas averaged 5,380,000 viewers, up 424 percent from last year’s Christmas show. TIMBERWOLVES’ ANTHONY EDWARDS FINED   NEW YORK, Dec. 29, 2024 – Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards has been fined $100,000 for using profane language during a live television interview, it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. The fine amount is based in part on Edwards’ history of using profane language during media interviews.   Edwards made his comments during an on-court interview at the conclusion of the Timberwolves’ 113-112 victory over the Houston Rockets on Dec. 27 at Toyota Center. NBA ANNOUNCES PENALTIES FROM MAVERICKS-SUNS GAME   NEW YORK, Dec. 28, 2024 – Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall has been suspended four games without pay and Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkić has been suspended three games without pay for their involvement in an on-court altercation, it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations.    In addition, Mavericks forward P.J. Washington has been suspended one game without pay for escalating the on-court altercation.   The incident, which occurred with 9:02 remaining in the third quarter of the Mavericks’ 98-89 win over the Suns at Footprint Center on December 27, began after Nurkić committed an offensive foul. Marshall and Nurkić then engaged in an on-court altercation. Nurkić escalated it by swinging his arm and striking Marshall on top of his head. Marshall responded by throwing a punch that connected with Nurkić’s face. As the officials and other players attempted to diffuse the situation, Washington further escalated the altercation by shoving Nurkić to the floor. For their roles, Marshall, Nurkić and Washington were assessed technical fouls and ejected from the game.   Following the on-court incident, Marshall attempted to further engage Nurkić in a hostile manner in the corridor outside the locker rooms.   Marshall will begin serving his four-game suspension and Washington will serve his one-game suspension tonight when the Mavericks visit the Portland Trail Blazers. Nurkić will also begin his three-game suspension tonight when the Suns visit the Golden State Warriors.      76ERS’ JOEL EMBIID FINED   NEW YORK, Dec. 27, 2024 – Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has been fined $75,000 for making obscene gestures on the playing court it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations.  The incidents occurred during the first half of the 76ers’ 118-114 win over the Boston Celtics on Dec. 25 at TD Garden. NBA COMMISSIONER ADAM SILVER’S STATEMENT REGARDING THE PASSING OF DICK PARSONS   NEW YORK, Dec. 26, 2024 – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding the passing of former Los Angeles Clippers interim Governor and CEO Dick Parsons:   “Dick Parsons was a brilliant and transformational leader and a giant of the media industry who led with integrity and never shied away from a challenge.  At a time of adversity and uncertainty for the Los Angeles Clippers, Dick stepped in to provide the type of steady and reassuring leadership that defined his remarkable career in business and public service.  He was a passionate fan and supporter of the NBA and a trusted friend to me and our league.   “On behalf of the NBA, I send my deepest condolences to Dick’s wife, Laura, their family, and his many friends.” NBA DELIVERS MOST-WATCHED CHRISTMAS DAY IN FIVE YEARS WITH VIEWERSHIP UP 84% VS. LAST YEAR   – NBA Christmas Day Across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, Disney+ and ESPN+ Averages 5.25 Million Viewers Per Game in the U.S.; All Five Games Up Year-Over-Year –   – Lakers/Warriors Thriller is Most-Watched NBA Regular Season and Christmas Day Game in Five Years, Averaging 7.76 Million Viewers and Up 499% vs. 2023 Comparable Window; Knicks/Spurs (4.91 Million Viewers) is Most-Watched Christmas Day Opener in 13 Years –   NEW YORK, Dec. 26, 2024 – The NBA delivered its most-watched Christmas Day in five years, averaging 5.25 million viewers per game in the U.S. across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, Disney+ and ESPN+, according to Nielsen Fast Nationals.  Viewership was up 84% vs. last year.   The Los Angeles Lakers’ 115-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors – which featured a thrilling duel between LeBron James and Stephen Curry – led the way averaging 7.76 million viewers and peaking with 8.32 million viewers at 10:30 p.m. ET.  It was the most-watched NBA regular season and Christmas Day game in five years and up 499% vs. the comparable window last year.   To begin the day, the New York Knicks’ 117-114 win over the San Antonio Spurs averaged 4.91 million viewers, making it the most-watched Christmas Day opener in 13 years and up 98% vs. the comparable window last year.  All five Christmas Day games saw year-over-year viewership increases, including Philadelphia 76ers/Boston Celtics (5.16 million viewers, up 3%), Minnesota Timberwolves/Dallas Mavericks (4.38 million viewers, up 6%) and Denver Nuggets/Phoenix Suns (3.84 million viewers, up 161%).  Nuggets/Suns was the most-watched late window ever on Christmas Day.   The NBA generated more than 500 million video views across its social media platforms on Christmas Day – an all-time record.  The five-game slate also generated the most-viewed Christmas Day ever on NBA League Pass.  NBA Christmas Day games were distributed in 214 countries and territories in 60 languages.    NBA viewership across ESPN platforms this season is up 4% vs. last year.  NBA games this season have driven ESPN and TNT to be the most-viewed cable networks among people under 50 on 21 of 24 nights.  Leading into Christmas Day, NBA viewership across ABC, ESPN and TNT increased every week of December, with an average week-over-week increase of 7%.  Viewership for Emirates NBA Cup games on ESPN and TNT were up 6% vs. non-NBA Cup games during the same timeframe.   Season to date, the NBA has generated a record 11 billion views across its social and digital channels.  The NBA has the largest social media following among all professional sports leagues and has one of the largest social media communities of any brand.