Lakers Draft Bronny James, Creating First Father-Son Duo in NBA History
The Los Angeles made history by selecting Bronny James in the second round of this year’s NBA draft, becoming the first team to potentially have a father-son duo play in the league. We discuss it here!
December 15th, 2019: LeBron "Bronny" James Jr. (0) plays in the high school basketball game between St. V. Irish and Sierra Canyon Trailblazers at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH.
Photo Cred: Mark Alberti/1022 Project
By: Joshua Martin
This year’s NBA Draft may go down as one of the most memorable drafts of all time. Not only did we see a plethora of potential stars walk across the stage but in the second round at pick number 55, The Los Angeles Lakers made history. With the 55th selection the Lakers chose Bronny James, making he and Lebron the first father son duo to play in the league simultaneously.
Bronny James is selected 55th overall by the @Lakers in the 2024 #NBADraft presented by State Farm!
— NBA (@NBA) June 27, 2024
Watch the Second Round on ESPN. pic.twitter.com/BnxozT7CGj
Multiple videos and stills surfaced of Lebron, Savannah, Bryce and LeBron’s mother, Gloria James, huddling around Bronny as he watched his name get called. The former USC Trojan could be seen wiping away tears as his mother handed him his official Lakers Draft Night hat.
Bronny James emotional with his family after being drafted 🙏pic.twitter.com/xidyce5nhl
— NBA World (@NBAW0RLD24) June 27, 2024
Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka spoke on this historical moment
“In the history of the NBA, there’s never been a father and a son that have shared an NBA basketball court and that feels like something that could be magical. We know, and have to respect of course, that LeBron has a decision on his opt-out…but if it worked out that he was on our team next season, NBA history could be made. And NBA history should be made in a Lakers uniform.”
L.A.’s second superstar Anthony Davis shared similar sentiments. Admitting that Bronny will be fine, highlighting his on court abilities and his willingness to create his own path and not thrive off of the successes of his legendary father.
“He’s very good defensively. He can read the floor very well. I think he’s a really good playmaker. I saw him work out a couple times besides the [Klutch Sports] pro day and working with a big — his reads, reading the defense, making the right passes — that was really impressive to me. I think he’s going to be fine, man. But one thing about Bronny, from what I’ve seen and what I heard, he wants to create his own path and he doesn’t want to be — even though he’s LeBron James‘ son, he don’t want be seen as that. And I think having that mindset and trying to create his own path is going to work out for him. … Who knows, he might come in and be ready to play for us.”
During Bronny’s short collegiate stint at USC, the guard averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 19.4 minutes per game. His playing time and draft stock took a major hit after suffering from a cardiac arrest incident and surgery. His recovery sideland him for almost 5 months, making his basketball career murky at best.
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Kobe Bryant Statue Unveiling Set for Feb. 8 Outside Lakers Arena
A Kobe Bryant statue is scheduled to be revealed outside the Crypto.com Arena by the Los Angeles Lakers on February 8, 2024. We discuss it here!
Kobe Byrant (credit: Scott Halleran)
By: Adonis Armstrong
Vanessa Bryant revealed on Thursday, August 24th, that the Los Angeles Lakers intend to reveal a Kobe Bryant statue on February 8, 2024. The announcement was conveyed through a video posted on the Lakers' social media platforms at 8:24 a.m. Set to occur outdoors at the Crypto.com Arena, the ceremony marks the initial in a series of commemorations planned by the team to honor Bryant's enduring legacy.
Kobe’s legacy immortalized.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) August 24, 2023
2•8•24 pic.twitter.com/WHQBXZJ2gD
For numerous fans, August 24th holds significance as Mamba Day, a tribute to the jerseys Kobe wore during his Lakers career, marked by the numbers 8 and 24.
On behalf of the Lakers, my daughters and me, I am so honored that, right here in the center of Los Angeles, in front of the place known as 'The House that Kobe Built,' we are going to unveil his statue so that his legacy can be celebrated forever, Vanessa stated.
The statue ceremony date also serves as a tribute to their late daughter, Gianna Bryant, who donned the number 2 jersey.
Taking his place among highly regarded Lakers figures, Bryant will be the seventh individual to be commemorated with a statue outside of Crypto.com Arena. He will join the ranks of Elgin Baylor, Shaquille O'Neal, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Jerry West, and broadcaster Chick Hearn.
Rob Pelinka, the Lakers' General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations, affirmed that Bryant's influence will tangibly manifest in the space he helped shape, affording everyone the opportunity to pay homage to the departed NBA icon.
Lakers owner Jeanie Buss additionally released a statement regarding the impending ceremony, expressing that Kobe stood as one of the most legendary figures in the history of Los Angeles.
“There is no better place for Kobe to be honored with a statue than here, at the center of our city, where everyone can celebrate him and be inspired by his incredible achievements,” Buss stated.
Coinciding with the ceremony, the Lakers are scheduled to face off against the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, on the same day.
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Nike Confirms 'Halo' Kobe Protro 8 for Kobe's Birthday
Nike honors Kobe Bryant's legacy with Kobe 8 Retro Protro 'Halo' sneaker drop and youth basketball tournament on his 45th Birthday. We discuss it here!
Kobe Bryant (Kevin Winter/GettyImages)
By: Joshua Martin
Despite there being a bit of controversy surrounding Kobe Bryant’s estate and his wife Vanessa following the Los Angeles icon’s death in 2020, fans of the Nike Kobe line will receive another sneaker drop honoring the legend on what would have been the star’s 45th birthday.
The latest Kobe 8 retro Protro release from Nike will be available for the first time in full family-sizing on August 23, 2023, aligning with the vision of Vanessa Bryant that all of his fans should be able to wear his sneakers. First released in 2012, the updated version of the shoe will feature modern materials within the sneaker while sticking to its classic look.
For its reintroduction, we're getting a crisp all-white version of the silhouette. Officially nicknamed "Halo," the colorway was created by his wife as a way to honor Kobe's birthday each year. The shoe will be available through Nike SNKRS and select retailers online and in-store. The retail price for adults will be available ($180), big kids ($120), and little kids ($90).
“I am so proud that my husband’s shoes are still the most worn by players on NBA courts and that the demand for his shoes remain so desired by his fans around the world.”
In addition to the sneaker release, Nike will hold a two-day youth basketball tournament at LA's Crypto.com Arena beginning on Aug. 23 culminating on Mamba Day, Aug. 24.
“Kobe Bryant means so much to so many of us, not just NBA fans but globally beyond the game”
Vanessa Bryant hinted that "this will be one of the many Kobe 8 'Halo' styles coming soon." I personally am a fan of the Kobe Crazy 8’s from Adidas nevertheless the legacy of the Black Mamba will live on forever. On and off the court.
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Derek Fisher Makes Coaching Comeback with Encino Crespi High School
Derek Fisher, former NBA star, returns to coaching at Encino Crespi High School after successful playing career and coaching stints with Knicks and L.A. Sparks. We discuss it here!
LOS ANGELES, CA. - SEPTEMBER 16: Derek Fisher of the Lakers watches the WNBA playoff game of the Sparks vs. Storm on September 16, 2009 in Los Angeles.
Credit: Photo Works via Shutterstock
By: Joshua Martin
Derek Fisher, a key member of the early 2000’s Los Angeles Lakers dynasty, has made a return to the sidelines after a brief hiatus from the coaching profession. The starting point guard for one of the greatest NBA dynasties of all time, has returned but not to the rigorous task of leading old and grizzly vets through an 82 game season. This time he instead finds himself on the amateur level leading Encino Crespi High School’s boys basketball team as their new head coach.
Similar to current Lakers star Austin Reaves, Fisher made a name for himself in his native Arkansas where he laced up his sneakers for Little Rock University. Fisher played all 4 seasons there and was also named the Sun Belt Conference’s Player of the Year in 1996 as a senior.
Fisher was later selected in the first round of the star studded 1996 NBA Draft, where Laker Legend Kobe Bryant was also drafted. The two immediately formed a partnership that would soon bear fruit in terms of championships.
Though primarily a reserve player during his early years with the Shaq/Laker dynasty, D Fish consistently started for the Lakers during the post Shaq era, briefly making stops in Golden State and Utah. His second stint with the squad was just as successful. The Lakers with Fisher as their starting point guard made 3 consecutive Finals, winning two.
After a brief “ring chasing” phase with Western Conference contenders, The 18 year NBA veteran quickly transitioned to a coaching career with both the Knicks and L.A. Sparks. Fisher coached the Knicks during the 2014-15 season and part of the 2015-16 campaign before he was fired in February 2016. He went 40-96 during his time as coach in New York. He led the Sparks from 2019 through the early part of the 2022 season.
“Coaching and teaching is a true passion and I look forward to continuing this focus on the next generation of young student-athletes. Go Crespi!!”
Fisher spent last year coaching an 8th-grade boys team and a Team Derek Fisher Club girls team.
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Carmelo Anthony Announces Retirement from the NBA
Carmelo Anthony announces retirement from NBA, reflecting on his legendary career and leaving a lasting legacy. We discuss it here!
Carmelo Anthony (credit: Andreas Branch)
By: Joshua Martin
Ten-time all star Carmelo Anthony has officially announced his retirement from the NBA via an emotional video recap of his career where the caption simply read “Thank you #STAYME7O” During the video Melo mentioned that his on the court legacy pales in comparison to the love he has for his son, the game of basketball and the fans who supported him throughout his career.
Thank you #STAYME7O pic.twitter.com/4au8cOd13s
— Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony) May 22, 2023
People ask what I believe my legacy is,” Anthony said. “It’s not my feats on the court that come to mind, all the awards or praise. Because my story has always been more than basketball. My legacy, my son … I will forever continue through you. The time has come for you to carry this torch.” - Carmelo via video address
The 38-year-old last played during the 2021-22 season where he was impressive coming off the bench for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 13.3 points and 4.2 rebounds in 69 games.
Carmelo Anthony suits up for the Los Angeles Lakers. (Daniel Dunn / USA TODAY Sports)
During his prime, Carmelo was arguably one of the greatest scorers of his era. Earning him numerous all star selections, in addition to a scoring title in 2013 with the Knicks.
Carmelo played seven seasons in New York, he also spent time in Denver where he was selected number 3 overall by the Nuggets in one of the more memorable draft classes of all time, that saw Lebron James go number 1, Hall of Famer Chris Bosh at 4 and future hall of famer Dwayne Wade at 5.
The 75th Anniversary team member made stops in Houston, Portland and Oklahoma City as well, en route to a Top Ten finish in total points scored in league history.
Though uber talented, playoff success eluded CarMelo the majority of his career. The best chance he had at a title was in 2009 where the Nuggets fell short to the eventual champions, Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. He only made it out of the first round one other time.
His performances with the USA Olympic team has definitely bolstered the 6 '7'’ forwards resume. The three time olympic gold medalist is the all time leader in appearance with 31, first in rebounds and second only behind Kevin Durant in points scored internationally.
Carmelo Anthony celebrates during the Olympics. (ESPN)
But where does he rank all time?
Being born in the late 1900’s, I had the privilege of watching Melo’s career unfold right before my eyes. From his days at Oak Hill Academy where he went toe to toe with longtime friend and rival LeBron James in a Nationally Televised high school game, to a National Championship victory after an impressive tournament run during his lone college season at Syracuse where he was named the Most Outstanding of the 2003 Final Four, all the way to his clutch performances at Madison Square Garden. Carmelo has always delivered!!
Carmelo Anthony celebrates after a three point shot at Madison Sqaure Garden. (Brad Penner / USA TODAY Sports)
However when discussing the greats, where will Carmelo Anthony end up? He was never known for his defense and I'm sure Nuggets fans haven’t forgotten how he forced his way out of Denver for greener pastures in New York. And let's gloss over the season he spent with Russ and PG13, as Carmelo was clearly out of his prime and the thoughts of a big three quickly materialized into a big two and a half.
Hindsight being what it is, Melo probably should have waited on a contract extension that prevented him from potentially teaming up with Dwayne Wade and Lebron during the 2010 offseason.
Nevertheless, a trip to the Hall of Fame is undeniable for the legend who averaged 22.5 points per game during 19 seasons. The 6 time all Nba selection sits 9th on the all time scoring list with 28,289 points.
In my opinion, Melo is in the top ten at his position. Not too many players had his pension for putting the ball in the hoop. The true definition of a “go to scorer”. Thanks Melo for the memories.
Carmelo Anthony celebrates as player for the Denver Nuggets. (Barry Gossage / Getty Images)
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Previewing the 2023 NBA Play-In Tournament
Get ready for the 2023 NBA Play-In Tournament! Read our preview of the matchup schedule and predictions. We discuss it here!
Jimmy Butler
via Sports Illustrated
By: Joshua Martin
Finally!!
The 2022-2023 NBA regular season is officially in the books and now 20 teams have the opportunity to compete for the prestigious Larry O’Brien Trophy. With so much chaos down the stretch, we now have a complete look at the playoffs and play-in tournament.
NBA Playoff Picture 2023 by NBA.com
The final day of the regular season saw several teams jockeying for playoff position in the uber competitive Western Conference.
The Los Angeles Lakers faced somewhat of a test against the Utah Jazz, who were playing without its regular rotation of players but Lebron James flexed his stroke from deep draining 8 of 14 threes and totaling 36 points as the Lakers locked in their position in the play-in tournament.
LEBRON HIT THE CROWN CELLY AFTER THE DAGGER THREE 👑 pic.twitter.com/LVHBtWzPzY
— ESPN (@espn) April 9, 2023
The T-Wolves and Pelicans were also in a bout that had significant playoff ramifications but unfortunately a heated exchange between Rudy Gobert and Kyle Anderson stole the headlines.
Kyle Anderson and Rudy Gobert had to be held back after Gobert swung at Anderson in HEATED exchange 😳 pic.twitter.com/jvB9xawHNn
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 9, 2023
Minnesota eventually won securing their position in the play-in but lost a key contributor in Jaden McDaniels, fracturing his hand after punching a wall on his way to the locker room.
After sending Rudy Gobert home for punching a teammate, Jaden McDaniels fractured his hand punching a wall.
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) April 9, 2023
Timberwolves are playoff ready. pic.twitter.com/MvZBMUqC2P
The Eastern Conference wasn't as exciting with playoff positions set in stone. Four of the top six seeds suffered losses with the majority of them resting starters to prepare for the playoff push.
2023 NBA Play-In Tournament matchup schedule
Play-In Game 1: (8) Atlanta at (7 Miami)
No one mucks up an opposing team's game plan like the Miami Heat. Both teams were inconsistent for the majority of the season but “Playoff Jimmy” is real. I like the Heat to advance. Sorry Trae…
Play-In Game 2: (8) Minnesota at (7) LA Lakers
No Rudy? No problem… The Lakers definitely caught a break with the Timberwolves unforeseen inner turmoil and with the three time Defensive player of the year facing a 1 game suspension imposed by the team, The Lakers win easily…
Play-In Game 3: (10) Chicago at (9) Toronto
Two veteran laden teams that undoubtedly had higher expectations heading into the season. This might be the most competitive out of the four games during the play-in. I'm a personal fan of great guard play and defense. Raptors in a close one.
Play-In Game 4: (10) Oklahoma City at (9) New Orleans
Oklahoma City may be the biggest surprise this season. Yes they have talent but they are also super young and inexperienced. Despite numerous injuries, The Pelicans somehow won enough games to make it in but unfortunately their postseason will end Wednesday night. Shai and the endless supply of Williams at the Thunder’s disposal will advance to the next round.
The Playoffs are where legends are made and after an eventful regular season I'm pretty sure this year’s Playoff run will be filled with even more unforgettable moments.
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Vanessa Bryant Awarded $28.85 Million from L.A. County
Vanessa Bryant settles remaining claims with Los Angeles County for $28.85 million following the helicopter crash that killed her husband Kobe Bryant, daughter Gianna, and seven others. We discuss it here!
By: Joshua Martin
Vanessa Bryant, wife of the late Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant, has agreed to settle her remaining claims with Los Angeles County for $28.85 million dollars.
According to ABC News, Vanessa Bryant attorney Luis Li addressed the ruling in a statement.
“Today marks the successful culmination of Mrs. Bryant's courageous battle to hold accountable those who engaged in this grotesque conduct. She fought for her husband, her daughter, and all those in the community whose deceased family were treated with similar disrespect. We hope her victory at trial and this settlement will put an end to this practice” - Luis Li, Vanessa Bryant's attorney
Co-plaintiff Chris Chester, whose wife and daughter were also killed in the crash, also settled for $19.95 million.
LA County attorneys believe the settlement is “fair and reasonable” and hopefully allows the Bryant and Chester families to heal from their loss.
Kobe, Gianna and others connected to the Mamba Sports Academy were headed to Thousand Oaks for a youth basketball game when the helicopter they were traveling in crashed killing all nine passengers onboard in the Calabasas Hills west of L.A.
Several months later Vanessa Bryant filed a lawsuit against Los Angeles County, claiming that the first responders took photos of her deceased husband and child as “souvenirs” and inappropriately shared them with others.
In August 2022, a jury awarded Bryant $16 million after she sued the county for negligence and invasion of privacy.
Federal officials blame pilot error as the cause of the crash.
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Lebron James Closes in on All Time NBA Scoring Record | Is He the Greatest?
Lebron James is now trailing only NBA Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, for the NBA’s all time leading scorer title. His resume gives him a strong claim to be called the greatest ever. We discuss it here!
Lebron James Closes in on All Time NBA Scoring Record
Credit: Tinseltown via Shutterstock
By: Joshua Martin
As of January 17th, Lebron James has amassed 38,072 points over his illustrious 19 year NBA career. He is now trailing only NBA Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who is currently the league’s all time leading scorer. Lebron passing Kareem is almost inevitable at this point but there are still many who are unsure where to place Lebron amongst the all time greats.
Let’s see…18x NBA All Star, 4x NBA MVP, 4x NBA Champion, Lebron’s has a literal laundry list of accolades that stretches as far as the Mississippi river. As his accomplishments continue to amass, some would say there is no debate.
However, sports fans love a debate and nothing stirs the emotions more than the never ending question… “Who is the greatest of all time?” With updated resumes here are a few that have a legit claim of G.O.A.T. alongside “King James”
Steph Curry
Wardell Stephen Curry II, a.k.a. the greatest shooter of all time, has single handedly changed the game of basketball forever. Currently playing in his 13th NBA, Steph has 4 Championships, 2 MVPs with one unanimous, and at this moment has amassed 3264 three pointers made and counting. The all time leader in 3 pointers made has impacted the game no like no other. If he continues to add to his already gaudy numbers, his case for GOAT will be even stronger. Wouldn't be surprising if Steph ages gracefully in the league due to shooting prowess, which has him in line to post even more insane statistics.
Michael Jordan
Michael Jeffrey Jordan! Michael Jeffrey Jordan! From the iconic Jordan sneaker line, to his relentless approach to the game, MJ terrorized opponents during his career. The 6 rings along with 6 Finals MVPs. The last shot, that may or may not have been a slight push off. So many iconic moments that anyone with a pulse has heard of “Air” Jordan. 5x MVP, 10x Scoring Champion, 9x All Defensive Team. It's almost blasphemy to compare anyone to him. As time goes on however and resumes start to fill out, maybe MJ’s reign as the GOAT may have some legitimate competition. For the sake of this article maybe.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul Jabbar, the current NBA all time leading scorer, simply dominated during his 20 year NBA career. He finished as the all time leader in blocks, games played and minutes as well. Born Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr., Cap accumulated 6 NBA Championships, A league record 6 MVPs, while also appearing in 19 all star games. Awarded the Presidential medal of Honor by President Barack Obama in 2016, the actor, best selling author and coach has a resume that makes his argument for the greatest of all time legit and will probably stand the test of time. Not to mention his amazing collegiate career.
O yeah, Magic Johnson, the Late Great Bill Russell…
*Sighs*, The debate continues…
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NBA Finals: LeBron’s Legacy Won’t Be Done Justice this Season, Here’s Why!
LeBron and the Lakers are chasing an NBA title but low television viewership may not honor his legacy the way it should after an anticipated 4th title. Here’s why!
By: Baigen Seawell
In March, everyone was excited to see what was planned for LeBron James and the Lakers with the growing success the team saw as they inched closer and closer to the playoffs. But it was hastily halted, meaning we won’t be able to honor his legacy in the way we should be able to.
With the NBA, MLB, and NHL all being halted in March due to the COVID-19 Outbreak, many of the things we usually have been looking forward to have been tweaked. Our sports circadian rhythm has been put out of wack, and we’re trying to get it back.
Once we got our “new normal,” the talks began to start back up again. But for the NBA, there’s been the talk of one of the best to ever do it, and the legacy that he’s inching closer and closer towards.
But let’s be honest, this season is not the most idealistic way to honor the King’s legacy.
LeBron has entered his 17th season this year, and has not looked back. Over his career, he’s evolved the game, helping foster new stat lines and player performance ratings to follow in the league, along with a growth and popularity in the point-forward position.
There’s no doubt that he and his teammates are destined for a championship ring after the trials and tribulations the Lakers franchise faced. If they win, this will result in a 17th ring, more importantly, an honor to the late Kobe Bryant, who was LeBron’s closest friend and greatest rival.
The Miami Heat, who represent the Eastern Conference, stars one of the youngest players to ever compete in the Finals. At 20 years and 256 days old, Tyler Herro is a household name in his own right, taking on a veteran leading his team to victory. This should be the talk of the town, everyone should be tuned in.
But they aren’t. At least according to the numbers.
But from the media side, no one is watching this unfold in real time. Game 1 of the Finals was thought to be the lowest viewership in league history with 7.4 Million. Then Game 2, the numbers dipped to 6.1 Million. Finally in Game 3, the NBA Finals had an all-time low of 5.9 Million viewers.
This sucks. But it’s not a political agenda or whatever people will throw out there…
Like many other leagues, they’re all fighting for a spot on the television. The second game fell on a Friday, which usually doesn’t get too many views according to Sports Illustrated. Game 3 fell on the same day as the America’s Game: Football (I can’t even say I was tuned in that game).
While unfortunate, we are in a paradox where we are experiencing all sports at once, making it nearly impossible for most of us common folk to watch several games at once. I’m sure the average family doesn’t have a 10 TV set up just for the sake of watching every game possible. People also find themselves streaming more than watching live cable TV, especially in the wake of the pandemic.
The argument can be made that “the NBA has been down in viewership for years!”
But… so has everyone else. Sports viewership is not what it used to be.
So what does this mean for LeBron? Does this mean he plays for more seasons so his presence is felt the way that it should have been this season? Maybe. Maybe not. But the magnitude and celebration that should be given for his contributions to the league may be put on hold because, unfortunately, not enough people are tuned in this season, and that’s no one’s fault but the damned TV Guide.
On the flip side, he’s still one of the greatest, he’ll still be acknowledged, along with Caruso, Davis and the rest of the Lakers. If they win the Finals, they’ll still get the attention from every news source, especially Skip Bayless’. Kobe’s Legacy will be resurfaced and the significance of the Laker Dynasty will be rightfully so placed in the forefront, as they’ll be tied with Boston for the most championships.
Viewership wise, the King may not get the amount of eyes on him as he should. The legacy will be much sweeter when reminiscing on the whirlwind that was the 2020 NBA Season.