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martes, 9 de julio de 2024

ClutchBasket:Basketball News

 






































































































































































Stephon Marbury named FIBA Intercontinental Cup Ambassador as Singapore fans treated to free entry on opening day

JULY 9, 2024

SINGAPORE (Singapore) - The 2024 edition of the FIBA Intercontinental Cup is guaranteed to be an unmissable event because of its historic lineup, but the lucky fans now have two additional reasons to not miss a second of the action at the Singapore Sports Hub - the presence of a true legend and an enticing offer.

Former USA international and NBA star Stephon Marbury has been unveiled as the ambassador for the 34th edition of the tournament, that takes place from September 12-15, and will be in attendance to follow live the first-ever edition of the competition to feature clubs from all five FIBA regions.

Marbury, a bronze medalist with Team USA at the 2004 Athens Olympics and a two-time NBA All-Star, has strong ties to Asia, having been based in China since 2010, as a player and coach in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).

"I'm honored to be entrusted with the role of ambassador for such a unique competition, steeped in basketball history," said Marbury.

"The FIBA Intercontinental Cup is a celebration of the growth of our sport on a global scale. With teams from of all FIBA regions, including Oceania, competing against each other for the first time, we are guaranteed of some thrilling games and I think fans are in for a treat.

"I am looking forward to see how each continental champion will bring their unique basketball culture, playing style and philosophy to the tournament, and there’s no better place to compete than in multicultural Singapore. This is what we mean by basketball’s ability to unite people and transcend boundaries.

Stephon Marbury following the action at FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019, in China

"Growing up, I was privileged to be surrounded by role models who provided me with invaluable advice and guidance. I hope to be able to pass this on," Marbury added.

"I hear basketball is growing in the community in Singapore and a lot of effort has gone into developing the sport. I am really looking forward to spending time engaging with young people while I am in Singapore for the FIBA Intercontinental Cup. I hope my journey can serve as an inspiration for the next generation of basketball players," he concluded.

The organizers will graciously put in motion a promotional offer to allow for more people to catch world-class basketball live and to satisfy the massive appetite for the sport in Singapore.

Kallang Alive Sport Management, the organizer of the FIBA Intercontinental Cup, announced on Tuesday that fans will enjoy free entry to all games on the first day of FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2024.

Tickets for the remaining days of the tournament start from $5 for youths (18 years old and younger) and $15 for adults, with a 3-Day Pass costing $140. A 20 percent discount can be enjoyed for most categories when early-bird sales run from 10.00 am on July 9 to 11.59 pm on July 22. General sales commence at 10.00 am on July 23. (All times are Singapore Standard Time - SST).

Those fans who want to get as close to the action as possible can purchase courtside tickets at $1,488. These come with All-Star Lounge access, full-day hospitality and an invitation to the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 induction ceremony.

The FIBA Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony will take place on September 14, marking the first ever time that the event is held in Singapore. USA's Reggie Miller and Serbia's Predrag Stojakovic headline the 2024 inductees, which also include fellow former players Miao Lijie of China, Danira Nakic-Bilic of Croatia, Kirk Samuel Penney of New Zealand, Romain Sato of Central African Republic, Skaidrite Smildzina-Budovska of Latvia and Italian-American coach Dan Peterson.

The historic dimension of the 2024 edition of the FIBA Intercontinental Cup is underlined by the fact that the reigning NBL champions, the Tasmania JackJumpers, will become the first ever team from Oceania to compete in the tournament.

The inaugural Basketball Champions League Asia winners, Al Riyadi from Lebanon, are the Asian representatives. Completing the line-up are Unicaja from Spain (Basketball Champions League winners), Angola’s Petro de Luanda (Basketball Africa League winners), Argentinian outfit Quimsa (Basketball Champions League Americas winners) and the NBA G League representative, NBA G League United.

The two groups of FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2024 are as follows:

Group A: Unicaja; Petro de Luanda; Al Riyadi
Group B: Quimsa; NBA G League United; Tasmania JackJumpers

Follow the official competition social media accounts on InstagramX (Twitter) and Facebook, as well as the Singapore Sports Hub social media accounts to stay up to date.

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Greece, Brazil, Puerto Rico and Spain qualify for last spots at Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament Paris 2024

JULY 7, 2024

MIES (Switzerland) - The field for the Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament Paris 2024 is now confirmed following the successful conclusion of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments 2024 in GreeceLatviaPuerto Rico and Spain.

Greece will compete in the Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament for the first time since 2008, after their victory at the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 Greece. They clinched their fourth win, 80-69 over Croatia, on Sunday in front of 11,810 fans at home in the final of the event.

Greece jumped into the lead soon after the start and led for most of the encounter, although they were only able to truly shake off the resilient Croatia late in the final frame, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nick Calathes, and Giorgos Papagiannis.

Antetokounmpo, the Greek superstar of the Milwaukee Bucks, was named TISSOT MVP of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 in Greece. He led the way for his team in the final with 23 points and 8 rebounds, while averaging 22.5 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists in the tournament. Greece will be placed in Group A and will face Australia, Canada, and Spain.

Puerto Rico triumphed at the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 at home in San Juan to clinch a spot in the Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament for the first time since 2004. 

Nelson Colon's men were helped by 13,504 passionate supporters who showed up in numbers to will the home side to a 79-68 victory against Lithuania in Sunday's Final. The one-two punch of Jose Alvarado and Tremont Waters proved unstoppable for the Europeans, as Alvarado led the way with a game-high 23 points and Waters chipped in with 18.

Alvarado was named the TISSOT MVP of the tournament after averaging 16.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.3 steals, as the hosts went a perfect four-of-four in San Juan.

In the Olympics, Puerto Rico will slot into Group C alongside defending Olympic champions USA, a Nikola Jokic-led Serbia and South Sudan, who will be making their first-ever appearance at the Games.

Brazil are celebrating being crowned winners of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 in Latvia and securing a coveted place at Paris 2024. They will line up at the Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament for the 16th time after they spoiled the party in Riga for the home fans. A stunning opening quarter, which included 8 of 8 from downtown and a half-court buzzer beater, gave Brazil a commanding 34-11 advantage over Latvia, and they never looked back.

Sailing to a memorable 94-69 success, they were powered by forward Leo Meindl with a near double-double of 21 points and 9 rebounds. His teammate Bruno Caboclo also impressed with 21 points, which sealed the deal on him being deservedly crowned the TISSOT MVP of the competition. When Brazil line up at Paris 2024, they will do so in Group B, where they will face host nation France, reigning FIBA Basketball World Cup champions Germany, and Japan.

Spain ensured they were victorious in front of their home crowd to celebrate booking their spot at another Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament. Spain, who were Olympic medalists in 1984, 2008, 2012, and 2016, defeated the Bahamas 86-78 in Sunday's final in Valencia in front of over 7,000 supporters.

Lorenzo Brown played an important role in the victory with 18 points, including four three-pointers, helping to spark a pivotal run late in the first half. Deandre Ayton posted 17 points and 14 rebounds, while Buddy Hield contributed 19 points and 6 rebounds to lead the Bahamas. However, their efforts were not enough to overcome Spain's experience in such elimination games.

Santi Aldama collected TISSOT MVP honors with 17.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 in Spain as the hosts won all four games for a perfect week. Rudy Fernandez, 39, is set to become the first male basketball player to compete in six Olympic basketball tournaments.

Spain's return to another Olympics sees them land in Group A alongside Australia, Canada, and Greece.

The Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament will commence on July 27 in Lille, concluding with the Final and Third-Place Game at the Bercy Arena in Paris on August 10.

For more information on the Olympic Tournament's competition system, please check here.
For more information on the Olympic Tournament's complete schedule, please check here.

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Miami win FIBA 3x3 World Tour Edmonton 2024

JULY 7, 2024

EDMONTON (Canada) - Miami (USA) go unbeaten in Canada, defeating Vienna (AUT) 21-18 in a nail-biting final to win the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Edmonton 2024 on July 7.

They handled business in dominant fashion all tournament, last fending off Serbian powerhouse Partizan to book a spot in the final. They would face Austrian side Vienna who cleaned up on their side of the bracket as well. 

The finals matchup started off cagey with both teams looking to grind the other down defensively. Vienna started off scoring in the interior before Miami star Jimmer Fredette got things going for his side from mid-range. 

With both sides having players adept at creating their own shot, what followed was a back and forth scoring battle with no team letting up the edge. Quincy Diggs made huge buckets to give Vienna a slight advantage early on but Miami stayed within distance thanks to the incisive Canyon Barry and Kareem Maddox. Dylan Travis proved to be immense on both ends of the floor. 

A huge two from Maddox handed a late lead to Miami at 16 - 15. Barry came in clutch as well with late buckets, it was him who finally iced proceedings with a surging lay, earning Miami a thrilling 21 - 18 win. 

Fredette was an offensive machine yet again for Miami, finishing as scoring leader for his side with 34 including 8 in the final. He led the entire competition in Player Value with 49.8, earning MVP plaudits.  

In the individual contests, NY Harlem’s Kidani Brutus won the Maurice Lacroix shoot-out contest while Donovan Hawkins won the dunk contest.

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Miami (USA)
2. Vienna (AUT)
3. Partizan (SRB)
4. NY Harlem (USA)
5. Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL)
6. Barcelona Panthers (ESP)
7. Lausanne (SUI)
8. Bordeaux Ballistik (FRA)
9. Riffa (BRN)
10. Beijing (CHN)
11. Marseille (FRA)
12. San Juan Church's (PUR)
13. Princeton (USA)
14. Winnipeg (CAN)

The 3x3 World Tour is back next weekend in Almaty (July 13-14)
 

About FIBA 3x3

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

It was played successfully for the first time in international competition at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore and since then has benefited from the launch of a yearly professional circuit for men and women (World Tour and Women’s Series respectively) and national-team competitions. 3x3 made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games.

Wilson is the Global Ball Partner and Maurice Lacroix the Official Timekeeper of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2024.

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

For further information about 3x3, visit fiba3x3.basketball, FIBA 3x3 accounts on DouyinFacebookInstagramSina WeiboTencent,  TikTokTwitchTwitterYouku and  YouTube or contact 3x3@fiba.basketball.

FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2024 Final set

JULY 7, 2024

ISTANBUL (Türkiye) - USA defeated Italy  to win the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2024 championship and complete their mission for a seventh consecutive title.

USA did not waste any time taking over the game at the Sinan Erdem Dome with a 21-2 first-quarter run to go ahead by 18 points and it was clear sailing the rest of the way.

Koa Peat scored 26 points with 8 rebounds and 4 assists and Cameron Boozer collected 24 points and 13 rebounds. USA spent the entire tournament breaking records and they snapped their own mark for most points scored in a Final, besting their 111-80 win over Poland in 2010.

USA have won all seven editions of the biennial championship, adding the trophy to the ones in 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2022. The 2024 team shattered a number of records throughout the tournament, including most points in a single game, most assists and most steals, and finished the tournament with an average winning margin of 64.3 points - another U17 World Cup record.

In the Third-Place Game, Türkiye gave the home fans reason to celebrate with a victory over New Zealand. Derin Can Ustun collected 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists and Kaan Onat picked up 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. It was Türkiye's second U17 World Cup medal following silver in 2016.

Cameron Boozer of USA was awarded TISSOT MVP award for the tournament. Joining him on the All-Star Five were teammate AJ Dybantsa, Maikcol Perez of Italy, Kaan Onat of Türkiye and New Zealand's Oscar Goodman.

FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2024 Final Standings

1. USA
2. Italy
3. Türkiye
4. New Zealand
5. Lithuania
6. Puerto Rico
7. Spain
8. Canada
9. France
10. Argentina
11. Germany
12. Egypt
13. China
14. Guinea
15. Australia
16. Philippines

NBA SALARY CAP FOR 2024-25 SEASON SET AT $140.588 MILLION

 

NEW YORK, June 30, 2024 – The National Basketball Association today announced that the Salary Cap has been set at $140.588 million for the 2024-25 season. The Tax Level for the 2024‑25 season is $170.814 million.

 

The Salary Cap and Tax Level go into effect at 12:01 a.m. ET on Monday, July 1. Teams are permitted to begin negotiating with free agents today at 6:00 p.m. ET -- six hours prior to the start of the league’s “moratorium period.” The moratorium period ends at noon ET on Saturday, July 6.

 

  • The Minimum Team Salary is $126.529 million for the 2024-25 season.
  • The First Apron Level is $178.132 million for the 2024-25 season.
  • The Second Apron Level is $188.931 million for the 2024-25 season.

 

The Collective Bargaining Agreement provides for three different Mid-Level Exceptions depending on a team’s salary level. The Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level for the 2024-25 season is $12.822 million, the Taxpayer Mid-Level is $5.168 million, and the Mid-Level for a team with room under the Salary Cap is $7.983 million.


NBA 2K25 SUMMER LEAGUE 2024 TIPS OFF JULY 12 ON ESPN AND NBA TV FROM LAS VEGAS

 Championship Game Takes Place on Monday, July 22 at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN –

NEW YORK, June 28, 2024 – The NBA announced today the game and broadcast schedules for the NBA 2K25 Summer League 2024, which will feature all 30 NBA teams and take place July 12-22 at the Thomas & Mack Center and Pavilion on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

All 76 games of the 11-day competition will air live on ESPN platforms (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+ and ESPN3) or NBA TV.  Every game will also be available to stream on the ESPN App.

NBA 2K25 Summer League 2024 will tip off on Friday, July 12 with seven games.  ESPN’s doubleheader that day will feature a matchup between Zaccharie Risacher, the No. 1 overall pick in NBA Draft 2024 presented by State Farm, and the Atlanta Hawks taking on No. 2 pick Alex Sarr and the Washington Wizards at 9:30 p.m. ET.  In the first game on ESPN, draftees Dalton Knecht and Bronny James and the Los Angeles Lakers will face No. 3 pick Reed Sheppard and the Houston Rockets at 7:30 p.m. ET. 

NBA TV will begin its live game coverage with four games on July 12, starting with the NBA 2K25 Summer League 2024 opener between the reigning NBA Summer League champion Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic at 4 p.m. ET.  Other games on NBA TV during the competition include No. 5 pick Ron Holland II and the Detroit Pistons against the Rockets on Monday, July 15 (6:30 p.m. ET), and No. 4 pick Stephon Castle and the San Antonio Spurs against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday, July 16 (10:30 p.m. ET).

Each team will play at least five games, including four games from July 12-19.  After each team’s first four games, the top four teams will advance to participate in the playoffs, beginning with a semifinal doubleheader on Sunday, July 21 at 2 p.m. ET and 4 p.m. ET on ESPN.  The two winning teams from the semifinal games will meet in the championship game on Monday, July 22 at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN.

The four playoff teams will be determined by winning percentage in each team’s first four games, with tiebreak criteria available here.  The 26 teams that do not advance to the four-team playoff will play a fifth game on either Saturday, July 20 or Sunday, July 21.

NBA Summer League in Las Vegas has a rich history of showcasing future NBA stars.  Former participants include 2024 NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown (who played at NBA Summer League in 2016 and 2017) and Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award recipients Kevin Durant (2007), Stephen Curry (2009), James Harden (2009), Russell Westbrook (2009), Giannis Antetokounmpo (2014) and Nikola Jokić (2015).

Tickets for NBA 2K25 Summer League 2024 are on sale now.  Fans can purchase tickets by visiting NBAEvents.com.


THIRTY-ONE EARLY ENTRY CANDIDATES WITHDRAW FROM NBA DRAFT 2024 PRESENTED BY STATE FARM®

 

NEW YORK, June 18, 2024  In addition to the 93 non-international players from colleges and other basketball teams or leagues who had previously withdrawn their names from consideration as early entry candidates for the NBA Draft 2024 presented by State Farm®, eight additional such players who had previously declared as early entry candidates have withdrawn their names from consideration. In addition to the one international player who had previously withdrawn his name from consideration, 23 additional international players who had previously declared have also withdrawn. There are 62 non-international players from colleges and other basketball teams or leagues and 15 international players that remain early entry candidates.

 

ABC and ESPN will broadcast the first round of NBA Draft 2024 presented by State Farm at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. on Wednesday, June 26 at 8 p.m. ET. The second round will air from ESPN’s Seaport District Studios in New York on Thursday, June 27 at 4 p.m. ET on ESPN and the ESPN App. Tickets for Barclays Center can be purchased online at NBAEvents.com.

 

This is the 22nd consecutive year the draft will air on ESPN and the 11th year Barclays Center will host the NBA Draft.

 

The following non-international players from colleges and other basketball teams or leagues have withdrawn their names from consideration for the NBA Draft 2024 presented by State Farm (in addition to those who had previously withdrawn):

 

Player                                      School /Team                           Height              Status

Abdullah Ahmed                       Westchester Knicks (G League) 6-10                 2003 DOB

Izan Almansa                            G League Ignite                        6-10                 2005 DOB

Thierry Darlan                          G League Ignite                        6-8                   2004 DOB

Reynan Dos Santos                   Overtime Elite                          6-5                   2004 DOB

Noah Farrakhan                        West Virginia                           6-2                   Senior

Jahzare Jackson                         Overtime Elite                          7-0                   2004 DOB

Dordije Jovanovic                     Ontario Clippers (G League)      6-7                   2003 DOB

Malique Lewis                          Mexico City Capitanes (G League) 6-8                   2004 DOB

 

The following international players have withdrawn their names from consideration for the NBA Draft 2024 presented by State Farm (in addition to those who had previously withdrawn):

 

Player                                      Team/Country of Team           Height              Status

Miguel Allen                            Joventut (Spain)                        6-8                   2003 DOB

Luka Bogavac                           Derby Podgorica (Montenegro)  6-5                   2003 DOB

Gael Bonilla                             Caceres (Spain)                         6-9                   2003 DOB

Michael Caicedo                       Girona (Spain)                          6-6                   2003 DOB

Milhan Charles                         BAL Weert (Holland)                6-7                   2004 DOB

Thijs De Ridder                        Bilbao (Spain)                           6-8                   2003 DOB

Brice Dessert                            Blois (France)                           6-11                 2003 DOB

Mohamed Diawara                    Poitiers (France)                        6-8                   2005 DOB

Ruben Dominguez                     Castello (Spain)                        6-5                   2003 DOB

Ugo Doumbia                           Chalons-Reims (France)            6-4                   2003 DOB

Mouhamed Faye                       Reggio Emilia (Italy)                 6-10                 2005 DOB

Andrija Jelavic                          Mega (Serbia)                           6-10                 2004 DOB

Ilias Kamardine                         Vichy Clermont (France)           6-4                   2003 DOB

Konstantin Kostadinov              Alicante (Spain)                        6-8                   2003 DOB

Liutauras Lelevicius                  Lietkabelis (Lithuania)              6-7                   2003 DOB

Timotej Malovec                       Mega (Serbia)                           6-7                   2004 DOB

Bogoljub Markovic                   Beograd (Serbia)                       6-9                   2005 DOB

Eli John Ndiaye                        Real Madrid (Spain)                  6-8                   2004 DOB

Ousmane Ndiaye                       Palencia (Spain)                        6-11                 2004 DOB

Noah Penda                              Vichy Clermont (France)           6-8                   2005 DOB

Zacharie Perrin                         Antibes (France)                       6-9                   2004 DOB

Musa Sagnia                             Manresa (Spain)                        6-8                   2003 DOB

Fedor Zugic                              Goettingen (Germany)               6-5                   2003 DOB

 

The following non-international players from the listed colleges and other basketball teams or leagues remain early entry candidates for the NBA Draft 2024 presented by State Farm:

 

Player                                      School                                      Height              Status

Trey Alexander                         Creighton                                 6-4                   Junior

Mark Armstrong                       Villanova                                  6-2                   Sophomore

Reece Beekman                        Virginia                                    6-3                   Senior

Jesse Bingham II                       Indianapolis                              6-6                   Senior

Adem Bona                              UCLA                                      6-10                 Sophomore

Jack Brestel                              Roanoke College                       6-5                   Senior

Jalen Bridges                            Baylor                                      6-9                   Senior

Matas Buzelis                           G League Ignite                        6-10                 2004 DOB

Carlton Carrington                    Pittsburgh                                 6-4                   Freshman

Devin Carter                             Providence                                6-3                   Junior

Stephon Castle                          Connecticut                              6-6                   Freshman

Cam Christie                             Minnesota                                 6-6                   Freshman

Donovan Clingan                      Connecticut                              7-2                   Sophomore

Isaiah Collier                            USC                                         6-5                   Freshman

Jalen Cook                                LSU                                         6-0                   Senior

Isaiah Crawford                        Louisiana Tech                         6-6                   Senior

Tristan Da Silva                        Colorado                                  6-9                   Senior

Mohamed Diarra                       NC State                                   6-10                 Junior

Rob Dillingham                        Kentucky                                  6-2                   Freshman

Ryan Dunn                               Virginia                                    6-8                   Sophomore

Zach Edey                                Purdue                                      7-4                   Senior

Justin Edwards                          Kentucky                                  6-8                   Freshman

Kyle Filipowski                        Duke                                        7-0                   Sophomore

Trentyn Flowers                        Adelaide (Australia)                  6-8                   2005 DOB

Johnny Furphy                          Kansas                                      6-9                   Freshman

Eric Gaines                               UAB                                        6-2                   Senior

Kyshawn George                       Miami                                      6-8                   Freshman

PJ Hall                                     Clemson                                   6-10                 Senior

Ron Holland II                          G League Ignite                        6-8                   2005 DOB

DaRon Holmes II                      Dayton                                     6-10                 Junior  

Oso Ighodaro                            Marquette                                 6-9                   Senior

Harrison Ingram                        North Carolina                          6-8                   Junior

Bronny James                           USC                                         6-4                   Freshman

AJ Johnson                               Illawarra (Australia)                  6-6                   2004 DOB

David Jones                              Memphis                                  6-6                   Senior

Dillon Jones                              Weber State                              6-6                   Senior

Bobi Klintman                          Cairns (Australia)                      6-10                 2003 DOB

Tyler Kolek                              Marquette                                 6-3                   Senior

Pelle Larsson                            Arizona                                    6-5                   Senior

Jalen Lewis                               Overtime Elite                          6-10                 2005 DOB

Jared McCain                            Duke                                        6-3                   Freshman

Judah Mintz                              Syracuse                                   6-3                   Sophomore

Yves Missi                               Baylor                                      7-0                   Freshman

Ajay Mitchell                            Santa Barbara                           6-4                   Junior

Jonathan Mogbo                        San Francisco                           6-8                   Senior

Tiras Morton                             Lubbock Christian                     6-5                   Senior

Carlos Nichols                          Southern Crescent Tech (GA)    6-5                   Freshman

Babacar Sane                            G League Ignite                        6-8                   2003 DOB

Jamal Shead                              Houston                                    6-1                   Senior

Reed Sheppard                          Kentucky                                  6-3                   Freshman

KJ Simpson                              Colorado                                  6-2                   Junior

Tyler Smith                               G League Ignite                        6-9                   2004 DOB

Jason Spurgin                           Bowling Green                          6-11                 Senior

Jaylon Tyson                            California                                 6-7                   Junior

Ja’Kobe Walter                         Baylor                                      6-5                   Freshman

Jaykwon Walton                       Memphis                                  6-7                   Senior

Kel’el Ware                              Indiana                                     7-0                   Sophomore

Bryson Warren                          Sioux Falls Skyforce (G League)  6-2                   2004 DOB

Deshawndre Washington           New Mexico State                     6-7                   Junior

Jaylen Wells                             Washington State                      6-8                   Junior

Cody Williams                          Colorado                                  6-8                   Freshman

Joseph Zaher                             Bowling Green                          6-0                   Sophomore

 

The following international players remain early entry candidates for the NBA Draft 2024 presented by State Farm:

 

Player                                      Team/Country of Team           Height              Status

Melvin Ajinca                           Saint Quentin (France)               6-8                   2004 DOB

Ulrich Chomche                        NBA Academy (Africa)             6-11                 2005 DOB

Yongxi Cui                               Guangzhou (China)                   6-6                   2003 DOB

Pacome Dadiet                          Ulm (Germany)                         6-8                   2005 DOB

Nikola Djurisic                         Mega (Serbia)                           6-8                   2004 DOB

Lucas Dufeal                            Vichy Clermont (France)           6-9                   2003 DOB

Quinn Ellis                               Trento (Italy)                            6-4                   2003 DOB

Gustav Knudsen                        Bakken (Denmark)                    6-8                   2003 DOB

Juan Nunez                               Ulm (Germany)                         6-4                   2004 DOB

Zaccharie Risacher                    Bourg (France)                          6-9                   2005 DOB

Tidjane Salaun                          Cholet (France)                         6-9                   2005 DOB

Alexandre Sarr                          Perth (Australia)                        7-0                   2005 DOB

Nikola Topic                             Crvena Zvezda (Serbia)             6-6                   2005 DOB

Armel Traore                            Blois (France)                           6-9                   2003 DOB

Cezar Unitu                              Constanta (Romania)                 6-2                   2005 DOB

 

# # #

 

 MIAMI HEAT AND WASHINGTON WIZARDS TO PLAY REGULAR-SEASON GAME IN MEXICO CITY ON NOV. 2

 

 33rd NBA Game in Mexico Marks the Most in any Country Outside the U.S. and Canada and Coincides with “Dia de los Muertos” Locally 

 

MEXICO CITY, June 14, 2024 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Zignia Live today announced that The NBA Mexico City Game 2024 will feature the Miami Heat and the Washington Wizards playing a regular-season game hosted by Zignia Live at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City on Saturday, Nov. 2.  The announcement was made at the first-ever NBA House in Mexico, an interactive fan event during Game 4 of the 2024 NBA Finals presented by YouTube TV.

 

The matchup will mark the league’s 33rd game in Mexico since 1992 – more than any country outside of the U.S. and Canada – and coincide with traditional “Día de los Muertos” (Day of the Dead) celebrations locally.  The “Dia de los Muertos” theme will be showcased as part of a variety of in-arena activations during the game, including a specially themed basketball court, and through the league’s fan engagement initiatives around the game.

 

The Heat, which will be playing its third game in Mexico, currently features six-time NBA All-Star Jimmy Butler, three-time NBA All-Star Bam Adebayo and 2023-24 Kia NBA All-Rookie First Team member Jaime Jaquez Jr. (ties to Mexico).  The Wizards, who will be playing their fourth game in Mexico, currently feature NBA champions Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole as well as 2024 Panini Rising Stars selection Bilal Coulibaly.  The Wizards also have the second overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft presented by State Farm.

 

The NBA Mexico City Game 2024 will air live in Mexico on ESPN and NBA League Pass, the league’s premium live game subscription service available via the NBA App, and reach fans in more than 200 countries and territories on television, digital media and social media.  In addition to The NBA Mexico City Game 2024, the league and its partners will conduct NBA Cares community outreach initiatives, Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA youth basketball development programming, and interactive activities that will engage youth and fans in Mexico City. 

 

The game and surrounding events will be supported by a roster of marketing partners, including AT&T, Betcris, Emirates, Hennessy, Michelob Ultra, Nike and Tissot. 

 

Beginning today, fans can register their interest in tickets and receive access to an exclusive ticket pre-sale that will take place on Wednesday, July 10 and Thursday, July 11 by visiting www.nbamexicocitygame.mx.  Tickets for the game will go on sale to the public on Friday, July 12.  Special ticket packages offering premium access, VIP experiences, hospitality and local hotel accommodations are available now at https://nbaexperiences.com/nba-mexico-city-game-2024.

 

The 2024 NBA Finals presented by YouTube TV are airing live in Mexico on ESPN, Star+, Televisa FTA, and NBA League Pass.  Fans in Mexico can find more information about the NBA at NBA.com/Mexico, by downloading the NBA App and on Facebook (@nbamexico), TikTok (@nbamex), X (@nbamex), YouTube (NBA México), Instagram (@nbamex), Threads (@nbamex) and WhatsApp Channels (NBA Mexico).  They can also purchase official NBA merchandise at the newly launched NBA Store in Mexico City, online at NBATienda.com and at the Arena CDMX on game night.

 

Executive Quotes:

 

NBA Mexico Senior Vice President and Managing Director Raul Zarraga:

“Bringing the Heat and the Wizards to Mexico City next season in conjunction with ‘Día de los Muertos’ will mark another special milestone in the NBA’s long history in Mexico.   The game and surrounding events will serve as the ultimate celebration of the NBA for fans in Mexico and across Latin America at a time when the momentum around basketball in the region is at an all-time high.”

 

Zignia Live Director Alejandro Arce Saldívar:

“We are grateful to the NBA for the trust they have placed in us to bring the best basketball in the world to Mexico.  We are confident that fans will have a unique experience at Arena CDMX.  We thank the league, the teams, and of course the fans, whose response makes it possible to bring this type of event to our country.”

 

President of The HEAT Group’s Business Operations Eric Woolworth:

“We are excited to return to Mexico City to bring a little of Miami’s HEAT to the passionate fans of such a vibrant city.  Participating in these NBA Global Games allows us to engage with a broader basketball-loving community.”

 

President of Monumental Basketball Michael Winger:

“We are delighted at the opportunity to represent the NBA and Washington, D.C. at the Global Games and are proud that our team reflects the growing globalization of the NBA.  Previous Washington Bullets and Wizard teams have had the opportunity of playing in Mexico City.  We are honored to follow in their footsteps and look forward to introducing this new Wizards team to NBA fans in Mexico City.”

 NBA COMMISSIONER ADAM SILVER’S STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF JERRY WEST

 

NEW YORK, June 12, 2024 – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Jerry West:

 

“Jerry West was a basketball genius and a defining figure in our league for more than 60 years.  He distinguished himself not only as an NBA champion and an All-Star in all 14 of his playing seasons, but also as a consummate competitor who embraced the biggest moments.  He was the league’s first Finals MVP and made rising to the occasion his signature quality, earning him the nickname ‘Mr. Clutch’.

 

“Jerry’s four decades with the Lakers also included a successful stint as a head coach and a remarkable run in the front office that cemented his reputation as one of the greatest executives in sports history.  He helped build eight championship teams during his tenure in the NBA – a legacy of achievement that mirrors his on-court excellence.  And he will be enshrined this October into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor, becoming the first person ever inducted as both a player and a contributor.

 

“I valued my friendship with Jerry and the knowledge he shared with me over many years about basketball and life.  On behalf of the NBA, we send our deepest condolences to Jerry’s wife, Karen, his family and his many friends in the NBA community.”

 

NATIONAL BASKETBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION

PRESENTS THE 2024 CHUCK DALY LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

TO HALL OF FAME NBA COACH RUDY TOMJANOVICH

 

Boston, MA June 9, 2024—Rudy Tomjanovich, a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Coach and one of only nine coaches in NBA history to win back-to-back NBA Championships, is the recipient of the 2024 Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award, the National Basketball Coaches Association announced today.

 

“Chuck Daly and Rudy Tomjanovich have many of the same amazing accomplishments and traits – both won back to back NBA titles, both coached the United States to Olympic Gold and both are absolutely beloved in the coaching community because of their great way with people,” said Indiana Pacers Head Coach and National Basketball Coaches Association President, Rick Carlisle. “Congrats to Rudy T on this prestigious recognition.”

 

“I am honored to receive the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Rudy Tomjanovich. “I have to admit, I was taken by surprise because I did not know I was in the running for it. I was with my son Trey when I got the call from Rick Carlisle telling me about receiving this great award. Trey saw the expression on my face and the emotion in my eyes. As Rick told me about some of the past winners of this award, all coaches that I admired and respected, then explained what principles the award stood for: a coach’s standard of integrity, competitive excellence, and tireless promotion of the game of basketball, I got choked up and humbled. I did not know what to say. Rick continued and said “This is one of the greatest honors a coach can receive, voted by your peers. You’ve touched a lot of people. You have been innovative and changed the game in a positive way. You deserve this award.“ It took everything I had not to burst out crying in front of my son, not that I wouldn’t, I didn’t want to scare him because he didn’t know what the call was about. He kept asking what’s wrong. I explained when I hung up.
       

“Afterward, I did cry. They were tears of gratitude for the many people who helped me on my journey through my coaching career. I want to thank owners Charlie Thomas, Leslie Alexander and Jerry Buss for hiring me to coach their teams. I want to thank coaches Del Harris, Bill Fitch and Don Chaney for the opportunity to be an assistant on their staffs and learning from them. I want to thank all my assistant coaches for their hard work and loyalty. They had my complete trust and I consider them family to this day. I want to thank Carroll Dawson, who was my right-hand man, a great basketball coach and teacher, he gave me everything he had, especially the feeling that my big brother was sitting right next to me on that bench. And I want to thank all the players who I had the privilege to work with. You are what the NBA is all about. Thank you for your hard work and cooperation. You made this award possible for me.           

 

I want to thank Rick Carlisle, David Fogel and the National Basketball Coaches Association for presenting me with the 2024 Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award.”

 

Rudy Tomjanovich coached in the NBA for 22 years, with the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers. During his 12-year head coaching career, he amassed a 527-416 (.559) career record. He led his teams, known for his instinctive managerial style and intensity on the bench, to the playoffs seven times, to the Conference Finals three times and to back-to-back NBA Championships (one of only nine coaches in history to achieve this feat).

 

Tomjanovich played collegiately at the University of Michigan, where he was named a two-time All-American, two-time First-Team All-Big Ten and had his number 45 retired by the Wolverines. Drafted 2nd overall by the San Diego [Houston] Rockets in the 1970 NBA Draft, Tomjanovich played 11 seasons in the NBA, where he was named to five NBA All-Star teams. His number 45 was also retired by the Rockets following his player career. 

 

In 1983, Tomjanovich began his coaching career in Houston, first as a scout and later an Assistant Coach under Head Coaches Bill Fitch and Don Chaney. In 1992, Tomjanovich was named the interim and then full-time Head Coach of the Houston Rockets.

 

During the 1992-1993 Season, Tomjanovich guided the Rockets to a Midwest Division title, making him the only Coach in NBA history to take a team from the lottery to a division title in his first full season. During the 1993-1994 and 1994-1995 campaigns, Coach Tomjanovich led the Rockets to back-to-back NBA Championships, making them the only franchise, outside of the Michael Jordan-led Chicago Bulls, to win multiple championships in the 1990’s.

 

Tomjanovich ended his 11-year Rockets coaching tenure with a 503–397 (.559) regular-season record and a 51–39 (.567) playoff record – both marks continue to be franchise records today. In 2004, Tomjanovich became the successor to NBA coaching legend Phil Jackson, in Los Angeles. However, due to health implications, Tomjanovich, only coached 43 games with the Lakers before stepping away from the sidelines.

 

Today, Tomjanovich ranks tied for 5th all-time in NBA Championships (2 wins), tied for 6th all-time in Conference Championship wins (2 wins), 25th on the all-time playoff wins list (51 wins), and 29th all-time in regular-season winning percentage (55.5%). 

 

Additionally, highlighting his success during the 1990’s, Tomjanovich ranks 4th in playoff games coached (90), 4th in playoff wins (51), as well as 5th in playoff win percentage [of Head Coaches with 20 or more playoff games coached (.556)] during one of the most competitive and exciting decades of basketball.

 

In addition to his tremendous success at the NBA coaching ranks, Coach Tomjanovich also coached the 1988 US Men’s senior basketball team to a bronze medal in the FIBA World Championship in Greece without any NBA players. In 2000, Tomjanovich coached the US Men’s Basketball Summer Olympics Team, featuring the likes of Ray Allen, Vince Carter, Kevin Garnett, Jason Kidd, Alonzo Mourning, and Gary Payton, to an undefeated record (8-0) and the gold medal.

 

Tomjanovich was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a Coach in 2021 (honored as part of the 2020 Class of inductees). He also was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame, the Houston Sports Hall of Fame, as well as the University of Michigan Hall of Fame, becoming the first basketball player in school history to do so.

 

“Rudy Tomjanovich is widely respected for his ability to connect with, teach and get the most out of his superstar talents,” said David Fogel, National Basketball Coaches Association Executive Director and General Counsel. “His commitment to the game and his 32 year-run with the Rockets franchise is a testament to his work ethic and infectious personality. Congratulations to Rudy on this most deserving recognition.”

 

The National Basketball Coaches Association’s Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award honors the memory of Hall of Fame Coach Chuck Daly, who, over an outstanding NBA coaching career, set a standard for integrity, competitive excellence, and tireless promotion of NBA basketball. The award is determined annually by a Selection Committee comprised of some of the most respected coaches and basketball executives in the game, including Bernie Bickerstaff, Billy Cunningham, Joe Dumars, Phil Jackson, Gregg Popovich, Pat Riley, Donnie Walsh and Lenny Wilkens.

 

Prior recipients are Rick Adelman (2023), Mike Fratello (2022), Larry Brown (2021), Del Harris (2020), Frank Layden (2019), Doug Moe (2018), Al Attles and Hubie Brown (2017), K.C. Jones and Jerry Sloan (2016), Dick Motta (2015), Bernie Bickerstaff (2014), Bill Fitch (2013), Pat Riley (2012), Lenny Wilkens (2011), Jack Ramsay and Tex Winter (2010), and Tommy Heinsohn (2009).

 

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.

 

TWO-TIME NBA CHAMPION AND HALL OF FAMER BILL WALTON

PASSES AWAY AT 71

 

NEW YORK, May 27, 2024 – Two-time NBA champion and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Bill Walton passed away today at the age of 71 following a prolonged battle with cancer.  He was surrounded by his family.

 

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement:

 

“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind.  As a Hall of Fame player, he redefined the center position.  His unique all-around skills made him a dominant force at UCLA and led to an NBA regular-season and Finals MVP, two NBA championships and a spot on the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.  Bill then translated his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game to broadcasting, where he delivered insightful and colorful commentary which entertained generations of basketball fans.  But what I will remember most about him was his zest for life.  He was a regular presence at league events – always upbeat, smiling ear to ear and looking to share his wisdom and warmth.  I treasured our close friendship, envied his boundless energy and admired the time he took with every person he encountered.

 

“As a cherished member of the NBA family for 50 years, Bill will be deeply missed by all those who came to know and love him.  My heartfelt condolences to Bill’s wife, Lori; his sons, Adam, Nate, Luke and Chris; and his many friends and colleagues.”