All-NBA Snub Costs Grizzlies Star Ja Morant To Miss Out On $39 Million Bonus

Ja Morant drives to the basket against the Chicago Bulls

Getty Images

By: Omar Cook

Despite averaging leading Memphis to a top playoff seed, averaging 26 points, 8 assists, nearly 6 rebounds, Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant did not secure a spot in any of the three All-NBA teams announced on Wednesday, May 10. Unfortunately, for the Grizzlies star this snub will have significant financial implications, ultimately resulting in the loss of $39 million for Morant. $39 million is crazy, doesn’t matter who you are.

Last year, Morant inked a five-year designated rookie max extension with the Grizzlies worth $192.2 million. However, he missed out on the chance to earn up to $231.4 million, which is 30% of the salary cap, as he was not named to any All-NBA teams this year.

Morant only received 10 second-team votes and 14 third-team votes on the 100 ballots, leaving him significantly short of securing an All-NBA recognition.

Morant was handed an eight-game suspension by the NBA in March after he shared a video on Instagram Live in which he brandished a handgun at a nightclub in Denver. Which opens up the question, is this a way for the league to punish Morant for his behavior?

There’s certainly been some speculation amongst fans that the NBA blackballed Morant from the All-NBA team but there is also a lesson to be learned here. Morant as a star in the NBA has to know that image is everything, and while he may be having harmless fun like we’ve all had in our 20s, the league may not see it the same way.

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Bronny James Commits to USC

December 15th, 2019: LeBron "Bronny" James Jr. (0) during the H.S. basketball game between the St. V. Irish and Sierra Canyon Trailblazers at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH. Mark Alberti/1022

Credit: 1022 Project via Shutterstock

By: Joshua Martin

After much speculation, it's official!! Bronny James Jr., the eldest son of NBA Legend LeBron James, is staying on the West Coast and attending the University of Southern California. 

Bronny wrote in his instagram caption “Fight On ✌🏿 #committed” while dawning his Sierra Canyon High School basketball uniform in the Trojans’ locker room. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @bronny

After the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Golden State Warriors in Game 3 of the western conference semifinals, LeBron said in a postgame press conference that his son picked “a great university.”

“Unless it was one of my great-grandmothers or great-grandfathers or someone way before my time, to my knowledge this is the first one out of the James Gang to go to college.”

— LeBron James

Basketball is family ❤️

LeBron speaks on Bronny's college commitment. pic.twitter.com/VgELV0vTWv

— NBA (@NBA) May 7, 2023

Currently James Jr. ranks as a top 5 point guard according to ESPN and as a Trojan, Bronny has a chance to develop his impressive on ball defensive skills, while also honing his scoring ability and playmaking skills.  

Bronny’s decision was interesting to say the least. Especially since the Trojans haven't made it to a Final Four since 1954 and hasn't had a deep tournament run in decades. One could only speculate that the allure of staying close to family and the bright and sandy beaches of SoCal played a major role in his decision. 

Ask yourself. How often has college basketball been the topic of conversation for fans of USC’s athletic program? It’s usually the coliseum for a Trojan football game on saturdays. With Bronny on campus, the buzz around the Galen Center is destined to become a fever pitch.

Unlike most prospects, Bronny’s game has been under the microscope since becoming a rising freshman at Sierra Canyon High School. Initially, many believed his growth was small and incremental but after an impressive performance at this year's McDonald's All American game, the adulation of Bronny’s game has been on the rise. And rightfully so.

The 6-foot-3 athlete has great speed and lateral quickness and the explosiveness that should transition nicely to the college game. A pure shooting stroke with range and the mental capacity to out-think opponents at the amateur level.  

USC’s basketball program has been buried behind the dominance of its cross town rival UCLA with its 11 National Championships over 60 seasons. The Trojans have had their moments but even the best USC teams can't hold a candle to the squads that dominated the sport during the Wooden era. We are now living in a new reality. As of now, Bronny provides USC with the sort of glitz and glamor it has never had. 

Opting to avoid traditional blue blood programs, it's obvious Bronny wants to be a part of history. If the Trojans are successful next season, Bronny could help snap a 70 year Final Four drought, a 39 year PAC 12 title drought and it's been 53 years since USC finished in the top 5. 

“Obviously, his dad didn’t go to school. His mom didn’t go to college. It’s super cool. … USC is getting a great kid. He’s there to play basketball, [but] they’re going to be super surprised at how great a kid he is, even though they’ve been recruiting him for a while.”

— LeBron James

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Joel Embiid Named 2023 NBA MVP

Joel Embiid with the Philadelphia 76ers (credit: Getty Images)

By: Adonis Armstrong

Joel Embiid, the dominant center for the Philadelphia 76ers, has been named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2022-2023 NBA season. The award is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and phenomenal performances throughout the season, which helped lead the 76ers get a top 3 seed in the Eastern Conference and a legitimate shot at the NBA championship.

EMVPIID. @Kia | #KiaMVP
🎨: @ChrisBMurray pic.twitter.com/K08H2My8FZ

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) May 2, 2023

The MVP race appeared to be a closely contested battle during the season, but ultimately ended in a landslide victory for Embiid. He secured 73 out of the 100 first-place votes available, with a total of 915 votes. Jokic followed with 15 first-place votes and a total of 674 votes, while Antetokounmpo received 12 first-place votes and a total of 606 votes. Boston Celtics' forward Jayson Tatum and Oklahoma City Thunder's guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander placed fourth and fifth, respectively.

Embiid's journey to the top of the NBA has been filled with challenges and obstacles, but his resilience and determination have never wavered. After being drafted in 2014, Embiid battled injuries that kept him off the court for much of his first few seasons. However, he remained devoted in his commitment to the game, and when he finally stepped onto the court, he proved himself to be a force to be reckoned with.

Embiid's performance in the 2022-2023 season was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged 33.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game, leading the league in scoring. He also shot an impressive 54% from the field, including 33.0% from three-point range.

But Embiid's impact went beyond just his individual statistics. He was a dominant force on both ends of the court, anchoring the 76ers' defense and leading them to the best record in the Eastern Conference. His ability to score in a variety of ways, whether it be in the post, from mid-range, or from beyond the arc, made him virtually unstoppable.

Embiid's MVP award is a fitting recognition of his remarkable season and his outstanding contributions to the NBA. He joins a long list of NBA legends who have earned the prestigious award, and his name will forever be etched in NBA history as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court.

Embiid's victory means that centers have claimed the award for three consecutive seasons, following Jokic's back-to-back wins. Additionally, an international player has won the award for the fifth year in a row, starting from Antetokounmpo's victories in the 2019 and 2020 seasons. Prior to the last five years, only three international players had won the MVP, Hakeem Olajuwon in 1993-94, Steve Nash in 2005-06, and Dirk Nowitzki in 2006-07.

As the NBA playoffs continue, all eyes will be on Embiid and the 76ers as they look to make a deep run and bring a championship to Philadelphia. The 76ers are currently in round 2 facing the Boston Celtics with the series split at 1-1. With Embiid leading the way, anything is possible, and fans around the world are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable postseason run.

Embiid has given us a reminder to always speak things into existence from a tweet he tweeted back in 2014. Anything is possible so always remember to speak greatness into your life.

SPOKE IT INTO EXISTENCE https://t.co/XW4QKuuLqH

— Joel “Troel” Embiid (@JoelEmbiid) May 3, 2023

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Joakim Noah Launches "One Basketball League" in Effort to Unify Chicago

Joakim Noah with the Chicago Bulls

By: Omar Cook

Former Chicago Bulls star Joakim Noah has announced the launch of the "One Basketball League" in Chicago this month. In partnership with 28 violence prevention groups, the program is designed for men aged 16 to 25 living in the city's west and south sides. It will offer financial incentives for players and also provide off-court programs and job opportunities.

“The city is divided in a lot of ways, and one of the ways to unify this city is through hoop. Just like we were talking about, some of my best friends to this day are from playing basketball,” Noah stated to Stadium’s Shams Charania. “That’s what we’re trying to do. We’re trying to unify this city, so we’re working with 28 violence prevention groups and we’re doing a big tournament. We’re unifying the city through this tournament and bringing in all the OGs. Obviously, the basketball is the way to bring them in, but the programs that come in after is the real peace work. I’m really proud of it.”

Awesome: Former Bulls star Joakim Noah is launching “One City Basketball League” in Chicago this month in collaboration with 28 violence prevention groups. It will provide financial incentives for players, off-court programs and job opportunities. pic.twitter.com/w3XXB0zUpj

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 1, 2023

Noah left the Bulls after the 2016 season to join the Knicks, but his connection to Chicago remained strong. Noah has been involved in various philanthropic initiatives, including the Noah's Arc Foundation aimed at supporting children in the area. He also spearheaded the Peace Basketball Tournaments aimed at ending gang violence and promoted the "Rock Your Drop" necklaces to further his mission of ending gang violence in the city.

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Kevin Durant Signs Lifetime Deal with Nike

By: Adonis Armstrong

Today April 28th, Boardroom, the media network of NBA star Kevin Durant, announced that he had signed a lifetime contract with Nike, thereby joining an exclusive group of basketball players who have signed with the brand, such as Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Durant, who is 34 years old, will now be associated with Nike for the rest of his career.

The partnership between the basketball star and Nike began in 2007. Over the years, they have collaborated on 15 signature shoe releases, with the 16th expected to come out soon. In addition to footwear, Nike has also worked with Durant on his family foundation and EYBL program, showcasing the depth of their partnership beyond just the basketball court.

A true honor to be in the game for life with @Nike https://t.co/VNj1IJUVWG

— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) April 28, 2023

“When I first signed with Nike, I couldn’t have dreamed of how far we’d go in this partnership. We’ve done amazing work creatively and philanthropically,” Durant said on the deal. We’ve traveled the world together and built a business that will now last forever. I’m excited for the future and honored to be in rare company with this deal.

The newly signed lifetime deal between Durant and Nike includes their continued partnership on community and philanthropic projects, as well as footwear and apparel. Nike's EVP of Global Sports Marketing, John Slusher, commented on Durant and the agreement in a statement.

“As one of best basketball players in the world, Kevin Durant has been an important part of the Nike family for the past 16 years. We look forward to continuing to serve the next generation of athletes together,” he said.

As Durant closes out a new deal, he aims to add another Larry O’Brien championship trophy to his resume after helping the Phoenix Suns advance to the second round of the NBA playoffs by defeating the Los Angeles Clippers 4-1. He and the Suns will face the Denver Nuggets in the second round, beginning this Saturday, April 29th.

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Three Black QBs Make History in 2023 NFL Draft with Top Five Selections

Former Ohio State Quarterback C.J. Stroud winds up to throw a pass at practice

Credit: Oho State Dept. of Athletics

By: Joshua Martin

The 2023 NFL Draft witnessed a groundbreaking moment in the history for the culture as three black quarterbacks, Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Anthony Richardson, were drafted within the first five picks. This is a significant achievement for the black community, especially given the challenges that African American quarterbacks have faced in the past.

THE moment. pic.twitter.com/MrOwKr52eT

— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) April 28, 2023

Ultimately, the Carolina Panthers selected Bryce Young with the number 1 overall pick. Young, the 2021 Heisman Trophy winner, is a talented quarterback who possesses excellent leadership skills, agility, and a strong arm. His exceptional performance in college football, coupled with his incredible work ethic, made him a prime candidate for the top pick.

C.J. Stroud, who played for Ohio State, was drafted as the second overall pick by the Houston Texans. Stroud is a skilled quarterback who is known for his accuracy and ability to read defenses. He had an outstanding college career, and his selection in the top five picks is a testament to his talent and hard work.

Lastly, Anthony Richardson, who played for the University of Florida, was drafted as the fourth overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts. Richardson is a dual-threat quarterback who is known for his speed and agility. His incredible performance in college football, coupled with his impressive physical attributes, made him an attractive prospect for the Colts. The selection of these three black quarterbacks in the top five picks is a significant achievement for the NFL and a sign of progress towards greater diversity and inclusion in the league.

More from the 2023 NFL Draft

The Texans were eager to acquire top level prospects on both sides of the ball. After making a deal with the Arizona Cardinals to move up to pick 3, Houston acquired who many feel was the top overall prospect in this year's class, edge rusher from the University of Alabama Will Anderson Jr. A monster of an athlete with quick hands and an extremely high motor.  

Rounding out the top 5 was the Seattle Seahawks selecting Devon Witherspoon, defensive back from the university of Illinois. With the attitude and athletic profile scouts gush over, Witherspoon has a chance to become a high impact player immediately. 

The middle of the draft saw teams focusing on interior lineman and defensive difference makers. The Philadelphia Eagles continue to knock this drafting thing out of the park with their selection of Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia at pick 9. A disruptive force in the interior who fell due to off the field concerns. 

All for this moment@breadmanjalen | #NFLDraft | #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/g6YVlxGDgH

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) April 28, 2023

“Grinding all my life for this moment.”

— Jalen Carter

After 19 consecutive picks to begin the draft without a wide receiver, four in a row came off the board to start the 20s. 

The bottom of the draft usually spots pretty good teams who simply are looking to add depth or crazy value. With no topflight prospect still on the board at 26, The Cowboys selected Mazi Smith, DT, University of Michigan much to the delight of Dallas’s All Pro edge rusher Micah Parson. 

Micah Parsons got his wish, he texted Cowboys DC Dan Quinn earlier in the day that he wanted Mazi Smith

(Video: @BleacherReport) pic.twitter.com/LUCjQsCwMt

— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) April 28, 2023

To round out the first round, the two participants in last season’s Super Bowl added to their defense with Nolan Smith, OLB, Georgia and Felix Anudike-Uzomah, DE, Kansas State respectively at 30 and 31. 

KEY NOTES from the Draft

The running back position saw a slight resurgence with 2 players chosen within the top 12 picks. (Pick 8 - Atlanta Falcons Bijan Robinson,Texas; Pick 12 - Detroit Lions, Jahmyr Gibbs, Alabama)

The selection of Gibbs at pick 12 was probably the most surprising selection on Day 1. With Gibbs even being surprised by the pick. 

"I feel great," Gibbs said. "I didn't know I would get picked as high as I did because running backs don't get picked as high in this new age and new era of the NFL draft, but it was pretty shocking to me.” - Jahmyr Gibbs, ESPN

Alabama also sets a NFL Draft record with 15 consecutive seasons with a draft pick in the first round. This is also the third time in the last four years a Alabama QB was taken in the first round.

Congratulations to all of the young men drafted on opening day. It's an honor to be a first round pick and potentially life altering for them and their families for generations. Now that their draft fates are sealed, it's time for these guys to live up to the hype!! We’ll be watching!!

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Lamar Jackson and Ravens Agree to NFL Record Five-year, $260 Million Contract

Lamar Jackson. AP

By: Omar Cook

NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Thursday that the Ravens and star quarterback Lamar Jackson have come to an agreement on a five-year, $260 million contract, effectively ending an ongoing battle of contract negotiations between Jackson and the Ravens organization.

The agreement was reached just a few hours prior to the start of the 2023 NFL Draft. Josina Anderson reports that the contract comes with $185 million in guaranteed money.

"You know, for the last few months, there's been a lot of he's said, she's said," Jackson stated in a video posted by the Ravens. "A lot of nail-biting, a lot of head scratching going on, but for the next five years, it's a lot of flock going on. Let's go, baby. Let's go. Let's go, man. Can't wait to get there. Can't wait to be there. Can't wait to light up M&T (Bank Stadium) for the next five years, man. Let's get it."

According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, the negotiations for a substantial contract between Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens have been ongoing for over two years. Rapoport added that after Jalen Hurts signed a five-year, $255 million deal 10 days ago, the Ravens made a competitive offer that surpassed it.

We’ve agreed in principle on a 5-year contract extension with QB @Lj_era8‼️

😈😈😈😈 pic.twitter.com/tQj1Rzqcha

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) April 27, 2023

Jackson took over as the starting quarterback midway through his rookie campaign in 2018, has been dominant on the field ever since. In his first complete season, he won the NFL MVP award in 2019 after throwing for 3,127 yards and a league-leading 36 touchdown passes, as well as rushing for 1,206 yards and seven scores.

Jackson's versatile skills as a dual threat QB make him a formidable threat for defenses. The Ravens have tailored their offensive strategy around his running prowess, but Jackson's underrated abilities as a pocket passer and with his arm have played a crucial role in his success. His massive new contract is a testament to his exceptional all-around talents.

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First Week of NBA Playoff Basketball Recap

By: Joshua Martin

A week’s worth of NBA Playoff basketball is officially in the books and well… This might be the most compelling first round we've ever seen. 

From marquee players suffering untimely injuries, to blowouts of the 20 plus point variety, stompings and suspensions, this year’s playoffs have featured a little bit of everything so far. 

We all know things can change quickly and so will our opinions on each of these remaining teams. But that's the beauty of postseason basketball: one game, one series can change the narrative around any organization.

Here are some of my observations…

The Knicks are legit and have their sights on a ECF berth.

It's amazing what great point guard play can do for a once moribund franchise. Jalen Bronsun might be the greatest off season acquisition of the past few years. He, along with Josh Hart, Julius Randle, Mitch Robinson and R.J. Barrett has revitalized the New York Knicks and has them in position to pull off the upset in this 4 versus 5 seed matchup. A suffocating New York Knicks defense forced Donavon Mitchell to have one of the worst performances of his playoff career in game 4, going 5 for 18 from the floor, with his teammates also turning in lackluster performances.

“The way we lost sucks. We can’t hang our heads and ultimately give up. We’re not that type of group. Like I said, we’ll be ready for Game 5.” - Donavan Mitchell, Yahoo Sports

“Spida” Mitchell deserves our collective benefit of the doubt but the way the Knicks are playing, it's hard to envision the Cavaliers climbing out of a 3-1 hole. 

The Best Series of The first round has been the Warriors vs the Kings.

The Kings are maturing right before our eyes. The coach of the Year Mike Brown and the league’s most clutch player De'aaron Fox are going toe to toe with the defending champs and don't seem to be phased by the bright lights of the postseason at all.  Draymond’s stomp on the chest of Kings big man Domantas Sabonis, forced the dubs emotional leader to sit in game 3 but the Warriors protected their home court and head back to Sac-town tied 2-2. Albeit with controversy, with Steph Curry inadvertently calling a timeout without realizing they were out of them after a challenge call didn't go in the Warriors favor moments earlier. Kings Forward Harrison Barnes eventually missed the game winning 3 point shot but the events leading up to the potential buzzer beater left many wondering who was to blame for such a crucial gaffe in such a pivotal moment.

Dub-Nation can collectively take a deep breath as the mishap is only a footnote in what has been an excellent series. The Kings have home court advantage with 2 of the next 3 games in Sacramento and the Warriors have been notoriously awful on the road this season. In order for them to advance they will have to win at least one game on the road.

The Bucks aren’t going anywhere without a healthy Giannis.

A back contusion has forced Giannis Antekounmpo to miss the last two games for the Milwaukee Bucks and they are in serious trouble. “Playoff Jimmy” is a real thing and the resilient with yesterday he scored a Miami Heat playoff record by scoring 56, the battle tested Miami Heat are showing the league how important it is to have your Superstars available during the final stretch of the season. Two blowout victories have the Heat in position to pull off the ultra rare feat of a 8 seed upsetting a 1 seed. The Greek Freak did return for Game 4 but it wasn’t much the Bucks could do to contain Jimmy, but it’s still not over anything is possible.

Are the 76ers for real?

The Philadelphia 76ers were undoubtedly the most impressive team during the first week of games. Not only did they sweep their opponent, the Brooklyn Nets, but they did so without Joel Embiid in game 4 because of injuries. James Harden and Tyrese Maxey blitzed the Nets by constantly attacking the interior and setting up teammates for easy shots. We even got a Tobias Harris sighting, as he is often the forgotten man on a team filled with talent and trustworthy vets. After trading away KD and Kyrie, no one expected the Nets to truly contend with the East’s elite but give the 6ixers credit, they took care of business and now one of the title favorites gets a much needed break as they await the winner of the Hawks versus Celtics series. 

RusselL Westbrook quiets critics with impressive play, momentarily.

Russ may be having the greatest stretch ever in his hall of fame career. He has shot 54% from the floor and is currently 8 of 16 from three in this first round series against the Suns. We can expect those numbers to taper off a little but one thing is for sure, Russ never cheats us on effort. The L.A. Clippers have once again been devastatingly hit with the injury bug and all in all honesty should be getting blown out by this Phoenix Suns team littered with allstars and future hall of famers. Currently, as the lone “star” on a team filled with championship aspirations, Russ’s amazing play has the Clippers competitive.

Kevin Durant on Westbrook:

"When he retires, people are gonna tell the truth about how they feel about his game. Right now, [they] make a joke out of Russ."

Chris Paul:

"I feel like the only people to do that is the people who don't know basketball."pic.twitter.com/7EuCCoVgg2

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) April 22, 2023

Strong words from his former teammate Kevin Durant and longtime friend Chris Paul.

Lebron and AD leading Lakers resurgence.

Despite lackluster play from a few of their mid season acquisitions, the Lakers are enjoying a 3-1 series lead after last night thrilling overtime heading in game 4. LeBron had a game for the ages with his 20 point 20 rebound performance last night. Behind the magnificent play of Anthony Davis and the consistency of Lebron James, the Lakers may be the scariest team in the western conference. The on court antics of Dillon Brooks has dominated headlines but no one can deny the legitimacy of their title hopes, especially since the team made drastic changes to their roster a few months ago acquiring the likes of D’Angelo Russel, Jarred Vanderbilt and Malik Beasly. The Grizzlies have been snake bitten with major injuries to their frontcourt with Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke not being able to suit up and recently Ja Morant injured his hand after a hard fall in game 1. The basketball gods seem to be favoring the Lakers as much as any team in recent memory. Inconsistent play from the Grizzlies and injuries have the Lakers super confident and they should be. I hope “Dillon the Villain” realizes it's never a good idea to come at the King.   

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Damar Hamlin is Cleared to Make His Return to the NFL Following Cardiac Arrest

LOS ANGELES - JUL 12: Damar Hamlin arrives for the 2023 ESPY Awards on July 12, 2023 in Hollywood, CA

Credit: DFree via Shutterstock

By: Omar Cook

On January 2, the world watched in shock as Buffalo Bills safety, Damar Hamlin, collapsed on live tv during a Monday Night NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest and was rushed to the hospital in a scary situation.

3 months later, Hamlin is finally cleared to return to playing football. Bills general manager Brandon Beane relayed the news. “He’s fully cleared, he’s here, and he is of the mindset. He’s in a great head space to come back and make his return,” Beane said of Hamlin, according to ESPN. Hamlin has spent the past few months in physical therapy, working with doctors and has been attending a few team practices.

Damar Hamlin has been "fully cleared" to resume football activities, Bills GM Brandon Beane announced. pic.twitter.com/a2avQrl2UK

— ESPN (@espn) April 18, 2023

“When he left Cincinnati, he came here, it was Buffalo General [Hospital]. He saw a couple of specialists here in Buffalo, and then, since then, he’s seen three additional specialists, most recently on Friday (April 14), and they’re all in agreement. It’s not 2-1 or 3-1 or anything like that. They’re all in lockstep of what this was and that he’s cleared, resumed full activities just like anyone else who was coming back from an injury or whatever,” Beane stated.

On Tuesday, Hamlin gave his first news conference since the event happened and stated that doctors concluded it was a result of commotio cordis, "an extremely rare consequence of blunt force trauma to the heart that happens at exactly the wrong time in the heart rhythm, causing the heart to stop beating effective," per the American Heart Association, which caused him to suffer cardiac arrest on the field.

"My heart is still in the game. I love the game. It is something I want to prove to myself, not nobody else," Hamlin said. "I just wanna show people that that fear is a choice that you can keep going in something without having the answers and without knowing what's at the end of the tunnel. Or you might feel anxious, you might feel any type of way, but you just keep putting that right foot in front of the left one, and you keep going. I want to stand for that."

Many people after witnessing the event believed that that would be Hamlin’s last time playing in an NFL game after such a traumatic experience but Hamlin is determined to keep going.

"Being around my teammates, the camaraderie of the sport of football, you know, that's what makes this sport the best in the world, is the brotherhood that it creates, the unity that it creates between all people of all aspects of life and just different journeys, it brings them together for one common goal," Hamlin said. "And I feel like that's a direct correlation of what happened to me that night, you know, just bringing people together in prayer, love, but that's what this sport does as well, so my heart is in it completely and it takes a lot to be great in this game, and I got a long way to go. I got a long journey to go, but I'm committed to it each day, day in, day out."

We wish nothing but the best for Hamlin as the 25 year old safety looks to make his NFL return in what will be inspiring for millions of people to see.

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