“That’s A Stink In The Locker Room” | Floundering Golden State Warriors Regret Trading Jordan Poole and Not Moving On From Klay and Draymond
The Golden State Warriors lost their sixth game in a row on Saturday night, losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder in overtime. The Warriors are now 6-8 on the season, and in a competitive Western Conference it’s not too early to feel a sense of urgency to get things right. But is the Warriors roster in its current form, good enough to overcome this string of poor play?
“There’s urgency, for sure,” Warriors superstar Stephen Curry said. “Any time you’re at this many in a row, it’s a problem you gotta fix. You don’t want to develop a losing mentality at any stretch of the season. That’s a stink in the locker room you don’t want to have.”
Warriors Are A Year Removed From A Title
You can forgive new Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. for keeping the core of the team’s championship dynasty intact. We are only a season removed from their last title. During that run, the core of Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green and Kevon Looney played well.
But there were signs of the cracks beginning to show that were masked by the fact that they won.
Green was benched during part of the Finals, and Thompson got progressively worse during that playoff run.
Jordan Poole was a huge contributor to that team winning a title, but Green knocking him out during training camp last year ended any chance of the team repeating as that relationship soured.
The team thought it best to remove Poole from the team, extend Green, bet on their veteran stars, and help develop Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody into playoff contributors.
So far that hasn’t worked.
Curry is still playing at an MVP level. His counting stats are excellent: 30 points a game on 47/44/93 shooting splits. He’s fifth in the league in EPM at +5.9, which means he’s still having tremendous positive impact when he’s on the floor.
The problem is, the rest of the roster hasn’t been up to par. The next closest player to Curry in EPM is 38-year-old Chris Paul, who comes off the bench at +1.9.
Green, who is currently serving a five-game suspension for choking Rudy Gobert, is at a middling +0.8, Thompson is at a bad -1.7 and Andrew Wiggins a putrid -4.0.
Those are not the components of a team that will make any kind of noise in the playoffs.
Green has always been a player that is volatile and skirts over the edge. It’s worth it when he’s the defensive dynamo and playmaker within the team’s read and react offense. But when he’s not, he’s just a problem. He’s under contract for three more years after this season and he’s only this valuable to the Warriors.
Thompson is on the last year of a deal making $43.2 million. While he is surely going to have a stretch where he shoots lights out from three and his overall averages will look fine. He’s not performing at a level commensurate with that salary.
The Warriors are well over the salary cap and up against the luxury tax aprons. That works if you’re winning championships. This team, in its current state, doesn’t look like a contender.
It’s easy to remain high on players you’ve seen perform time and time again. There is a body of evidence that proves these players work. But time and age catch up to everyone — even superhuman NBA athletes. Playoff wear and tear, sap the body of physical ability.
The team’s young draft picks have not developed and panned out like they’ve hoped and so they’re forced to lean on these aging veterans more than they should.
By Christmas, they could be singing a different tune behind renewed play and a display of championship mettle. Or they could still be hovering around mediocrity, coming to the realization that maybe they held on too long.
“This Is The Toughest Stretch Of … My Life” | The Honeymoon Is Over For The Colorado Buffaloes As Deion Sanders Chomps On Some Humble Pie
Things have gone completely south for the Colorado Buffaloes. A once-promising 3-0 start was the topic of conversation on sports shows and social media posts across the country. It was as effective a start as head coach Deion Sanders could hope for, knowing that a tough schedule against nationally ranked opponents loomed.
As expected, conference play in a desperate Pac-12 Conference that’s going up in smoke at season’s end, has been a challenge.
Since conference play began the Buffaloes are 1-7 and have been humbled with their only conference win coming at Arizona State University.
Friday night’s 56-14 blowout loss to the Washington State University Cougars was the latest in a string of losses where the Buffaloes were overwhelmed up front and couldn’t match up.
Following the game, a very dejected and unusually sullen Sanders had a lot to say to reporters.
Low Point For Sanders
During his postgame interview, Sanders’ face showed just how much of a toll the losing is taking on him. He then said it with his own lips.
“I’m sorry; my head is throbbing right now.” Sanders continued, telling reporters, “This is the toughest stretch of probably my life.”
Deion Sanders Humbled
In essence, the legendary defensive back who’s still the only player to play in a Super Bowl and World Series, looked beaten and humbled. Sports has a way of doing it to the best of them, and right now it’s happening out in scenic Boulder. The team that began the season like gangbusters has been getting manhandled in conference play, as everyone wants to beat the new shiny toy with all the hype.
What’s Next For The Buffaloes?
Up next for the Buffs is their regular season finale at the University of Utah Utes (7–4), one of the most physical teams in all of college football.
In what will likely be another loss to end the once promising season, the immediate attention will switch to the December early signing period, where they’ll need to hit some interior lineman on both sides of the football.
During his three-year run at Jackson State, Sanders enjoyed a ton of success on the field, going 27-6 with two SWAC Championships and two Celebration Bowl appearances.
So one could see why Sanders says this is tough, but knowing how he approached his playing career, one has to believe he’ll get this rectified out in Boulder. If he plans on sticking around, it’s a solid first step. It’s also a good example of how Sanders reacts when he’s not winning and also can’t hop on the field and influence the outcome. Growing pains for later gains.
It’s Time For The Washington Commanders To Fire Ron Rivera, Give Eric Bieniemy The Keys
Coming into Sunday’s game versus the New York Giants the Washington Commanders’ playoff chances were already teetering on dead.
After Sunday’s lackluster performance in an ugly 31-19 loss to their division rival, many are calling for the team’s new ownership group to fire head coach Ron Rivera and make first-year offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy the interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
Ron Rivera Underachieving With Commanders
After watching the team, not just this season but in Rivera’s three-plus losing seasons (26-34-1), one thing that’s been noticeable is how unprepared and unfocused his team has often been.
Two losses to a now-3-8 Giants team this season that played their second and third-string QBs is unacceptable. And who can forget that Week 5 Thursday night debacle against the previously winless Chicago Bears where the now-4-7 Commanders gave up 40 points in a 40-20 loss.
Following Sunday’s loss all Rivera could say to reporters was, “It’s a low point, that’s for sure. We suck, that’s the truth of the matter.”
His face and words looked and sounded like someone who knows he’s a lame duck coach at this point.
Commanders Need To Make Bieniemy Interim Coach
Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy has had his ups and downs in his first season calling plays, and Sunday wasn’t one of his best. The former Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator, who didn’t call plays there, has struggled to find a balance between the running and passing game. Coming into Sunday no team in the NFL passed more, and after second-year QB Sam Howell attempted 45 more passes, it’s highly unlikely that changes.
But the Commanders need to make a change, and that means moving on from Rivera and his defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio whose defense has ranked in the bottom two to three all season. And that was with edge rushers Chase Young and Montez Sweat, whom the team dealt at the trade deadline.
Why Make Eric Bieniemy Head Coach Now?
Promoting Bieniemy to the interim role would allow the new ownership to see how he functions in that capacity. A test run that could lead to Bieniemy being the permanent replacement.
Per Rivera, Bieniemy has been handling the day-to-day operations since he arrived. Earlier this season, Rivera told reporters players came to him complaining about Bieniemy’s hard-nosed approach, which is something he should’ve been applauding and not revealing to anyone.
While Rivera attempted to walk the comments back, it was too late. The damage had already been done.
Rivera is the last remnant from the cantankerous Daniel Snyder era, and while he did some good things as pertains to the team’s culture, it’s time for him to go. The team needs a new voice, and that’s something Bieniemy is, and not just for the offense.
With the Dallas Cowboys on deck for Thanksgiving, it’s unlikely ownership moves on from Rivera in a short week, but based on the mood and atmosphere at FedEx Field on Sunday, it shouldn’t be long after that he’s shown the door.
UFC Fighter Tom Aspinall’s “Fingered” Comment To Female Reporter Is A Bare-Knuckled Display Of Why MMA Will Always Be A Sideshow
The sport of mixed martial arts has made tremendous strides into becoming a legitimate sport. As the visibility of the sport that was once labeled “human cockfighting,” by members of the U.S. Congress continues, mainly behind the efforts of the Ultimate Fighting Championships, there are instances that contain the sport to a sideshow class.
Tom Aspinall, the UFC’s interim heavyweight title holder, recently sparked controversy during an interview with MMA content creator Nina-Marie Daniele. Known for his impressive performance in the Octagon, Aspinall unexpectedly deviated from the usual sports discourse by posing a not-suitable-for-work (NSFW) question to Daniele.
The question, “Have you ever been f**gered by an MMA fighter before,” caught Daniele and the fans completely off guard.
Sideshow Culture
Although Daniele is known by her audience for her distinctive interviewing style involving contentious and unconventional questions, she found herself unprepared for Aspinall’s bold query. The interaction quickly became a talking point in the UFC community, highlighting the often unpredictable interactions between MMA athletes and media personalities.
Some fans on social media suggested that the incident might have been a misunderstanding, interpreting Aspinall’s question as an inquiry about whether any MMA fighter had ever shown Nina the middle finger as an insult. However, Daniele responded to this speculation on her YouTube channel, reflecting on the incident with humor and attributing it to a difference in cultural humor.
“I absolutely love Tom Aspinall’s humor!” Daniele’s X caption said. “The reason he asked me that crazy question is because we follow each other on IG and sees all the crazy weird questions my followers ask me. @AspinallMMA is funny AF and he didn’t offend me AT ALL! He was trying to get a reaction out of me.”
She continued the discussion in the video posted to her social media.
“Part of me was like, Is it a language barrier?” Daniele said. “But then I realized we both spoke English. LMFAO all jokes, though. Tom’s a funny guy! I think people aren’t used to British humor.”
Aspinall is a UFC heavyweight from the U.K.
Long Way To Go
This incident underscores the complexities and nuances of athlete-reporter interactions in the high-stakes world of professional sports, where the lines between professionalism and personality often blur.
During a live UFC press conference on June 28, current UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland expressed his belief that the decision to grant women the right to vote was an error and suggested that women should be placed “back in the kitchen.”
“We need to go back to taking women out of the workforce,” Strickland said. “Maybe that is where we f**k up, you guys, we let women vote, no offense. … Think about America prior to women voting. So what you did, man, you let these women come [into] the workforce, now we make less money, we got kids raising themselves on fing TikTok. … We need to put women back in the kitchen… only one man needs to be working.”
For a business looking to scale by aligning unofficially with the scripted athleticism of the WWE through their mutual owners at Endeavor, the UFC has a long way to go for more significant corporate sponsor acceptance and increased pop culture visibility.
Boxing Has Enough Problems And, Floyd Mayweather Fighting John Gotti III Again Makes Things Worse
The sport of boxing is called the hurt business for a reason, and recently, it’s because fans and casuals alike are disappointed in the outcomes. From the lackluster Shakur Stevenson win over Edwin De Los Santos to many believing that boxing debutante and former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou was robbed in his fight against WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, fans remain skeptical of boxing.
Let’s not even bring up the overhyped snoozer of a fight between Canelo Alvarez and Jermell Charlo.
Now another potential “L” is returning to boxing, and that is the rematch exhibition bout between Floyd “Money” Mayweather, Jr. and John Gotti III. Set for February 2024 on pay-per-view via the Zeus Network, aligning with the Super Bowl weekend in Las Vegas, Mayweather, a former five-division world champion, announced the matchup on his Instagram, signaling another bombastic step in his post-professional boxing career.
Why Gotti Again?
This rematch comes after their initial encounter in June 2023, which ended in notable chaos after six rounds of intense competition, marked by holding and trash talk that swerved into racist territory. The original fight, held in Florida, was characterized by its ill-tempered nature, ultimately leading to its closure by the referee in the sixth round.
The upcoming rematch between Mayweather and Gotti III is not just a regular boxing event; it symbolizes Mayweather’s continued evolution in the business of boxing and pushing the parameters of how to make money in retirement. It is undeniable that Mayweather understands the art of spectacle and his ability to draw significant attention against fighters with little to no pedigree for a glorified sparring session is nothing short of amazing, especially as he is paid handsomely for it.
The choice of Super Bowl weekend for the rematch showcases Mayweather’s flair for timing as the convergence on his home city of Las Vegas during an international event is all upside for the very weak bout. Floyd still caters to the hope many fans hold that a boxing nobody with popularity has a chance to topple the best boxer-businessman in history.
Milking The Cow
It is a foregone conclusion that they will lose; however, Mayweather has been milking this proposition to the benefit of his wallet but to the detriment of a sport that demands real fights from currently active professional boxers. Sure, he will more than likely use the opportunity to showcase his stable of Mayweather Promotions fighters, but sans a credible main event, the fight reeks of a money grab.
Although their first bout had a chaotic ending that many want to see reignited for its sheer entertainment and spectacle value, the fight is fundamentally wrong for a sport needing an equally matched fight.
As the boxing community and sports enthusiasts are pandered to with this rematch, it’s clear that this event will be a testament to Mayweather’s ability to generate income at the highest levels, even at the expense of the sport he loves.
Was Vegas Doing Too Much With A Formula 1 Grand Prix? Probably, According To 35,000 Angry Fans
The Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix is a highly anticipated event. A takeover of the world-famous Las Vegas strip that would transform regular streets into a professional racetrack. In theory, this is yet another reason why Las Vegas is one of the world’s biggest stages for entertainment and sports.
However, an audacious event like a Formula 1 Grand Prix is undoubtedly rife with potential problems. Sin City is learning that pulling off an international race in its streets is challenging.
The Perfect Formula For Challenges
Thus far, the race has faced significant challenges when a practice session had to be canceled, leading to a class-action lawsuit. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of the 35,000 ticket purchasers for Thursday’s practice session, which was abruptly halted due to Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari being damaged by a loose drain cover. The incident occurred on the neon-lit circuit, including a section along the famed Las Vegas Strip, and lasted a little over eight minutes before stopping.
Following the incident, a prolonged break of five-and-a-half hours ensued as crews removed and secured all 30 drain covers along the 3.8-mile layout, filling the holes with sand and asphalt. A second practice session was held at 2:30 a.m. on Friday, but by then the grandstands were empty, as fans had been sent home as a safety precaution.
In response to the cancellation, Las Vegas Grand Prix officials offered $200 merchandise vouchers to single-day ticket holders, although this compensation did not extend to those with three-day passes. Dimopoulos Law Firm and co-counsel JK Legal & Consulting filed the class-action lawsuit against the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix in Nevada state court, naming Formula 1 owners, race promoters Liberty Media Corporation, and others as defendants.
From Sin City To Sport City
The decision to cancel the session and send fans home was attributed to concerns for public safety and the well-being of security officials who had been on duty for an extended period. Despite the initial setback, the qualifying session occurred on Friday and was completed without further incidents.
With the Super Bowl coming to Vegas in February and a year-round sports focus with hockey, women’s professional basketball, football, MMA, and boxing, Sin City is doubling down on sports and learning by trial and error.
The Demise Of Russell Wilson Was Greatly Exaggerated | Broncos QB Showing Rebirth
The Denver Broncos began the 2023 season 1-5 under first-year head Sean Payton before the team began a three-game winning streak that includes wins over the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. At the forefront of the turnaround has been the Broncos’ oft-maligned defense and quarterback Russell Wilson, whom many were calling washed after last year.
This season, Wilson, the former Seattle Seahawks legend, has looked like the guy who led the Hawks to eight playoff appearances in ten seasons.
Even in the team’s early season struggles this year, Wilson was a bright spot. Now, with the win streak going, Wilson has been even better and looks nothing like the quarterback who struggled mightily in 2022.
Amidst Wilson’s struggles he was often called out by analysts and media pundits daily, in some cases he was even being called the worst blockbuster trade in league history.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith led the charge on many Monday mornings after NFL Sundays, and for that Wilson’s teammate is calling for Smith and others in the media to apologize to Wilson for their past comments.
Sutton Post Apology Form To Instagram
Following the Broncos’ huge road win at the Buffalo Bills on Monday night, Sutton posted a form that read “Russell Wilson apology form” to his Instagram. This was in response to all those who believed Wilson’s best days were behind him. Friday, on ESPN’s “First Take,” Smith took some time during the show to address the situation.
“I got mad respect for him Sutton, but shut the hell up with that nonsense,” said Smith. “Did you watch the team last year? If anything, Russell Wilson owes all of us an apology for putting forth the year that he put forth that put everything into question.”
Smith is speaking of Wilson’s lackluster 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2022, and the teams’ 5-12 record. Smith then proceeded to shred Sutton and the Broncos for their effort in 2022.
“You embarrassed yourself. You embarrassed the city of Denver. You embarrassed the history of the Denver Broncos organization,” chided Smith. “You brought it on yourself.”
The 2022 Broncos were absolutely dysfunctional, and that led to the firing of first-year head coach Nathaniel Hackett after just 15 games with a 4-11 record. This year under Payton it’s been a much better product, and Wilson has been the catalyst.
Wilson Leading The Way
This season Wilson has 18 touchdowns and just four interceptions and looks more like the guy who doesn’t turn the ball over. In the past three games he’s got six touchdown passes and zero interceptions. But as far as wanting an apology for folks saying things that were truthful is weird. The contract that Wilson signed when he came over in the trade opens the door for criticism when he isn’t playing well.
Sutton shouldn’t expect anyone to apologize for giving their opinions on Wilson’s play. His turnaround this season should be enough to get folks to keep quiet.
Robert Griffin III Thinks The Cleveland Browns Should Sign Him If They Want A Super Bowl Ring
The Cleveland Browns are trying to figure out life without their franchise QB Deshaun Watson. Last week their $230 million signal-caller was lost for the season with a fractured shoulder. In his place the 6-3 Browns are turning to rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson as the starter and journeyman P.J. Walker as his backup.
With a defense that feels and looks as if it is Super Bowl-ready, turning the reins of the offense over to two unproven commodities isn’t what the team envisioned this season.
That quarterback conundrum has many wondering if the Browns will look to add a proven vet to the mix. The team reportedly worked out former Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco during the week but nothing has come of it as of yet. That made former No. 2 overall pick and current ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III throw his name in the ring for a shot at being one of the team’s quarterbacks.
Griffin Wants To Be Browns Starter, Super Bowl?
During a recent episode of his “RG3 and the ones” podcast the 33-year-old former NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, outlined why the Browns should take a flier on him.
“I’m here to tell you they have a third option. And it’s your boy. The Browns should sign me as their starting quarterback, and here’s why.”
Griffin then went on to talk about his maturation and growth from his early playing days, when his immaturity and arrogance was a detriment to his career.
“At 33 years old, I understand the game better than I ever have in my entire career. I know how to slide and I know when to slide. And that was a huge issue in my eight years in the NFL, but I’ve learned from my mistakes and I’m ready to showcase that I can get it done.
Griffin believes he’d be a good fit because he can manage the game, which is what he felt the aforementioned Watson was doing prior to his season-ending injury, when he went 14-for-14 versus the Baltimore Ravens in the second half.
“Of those 14 passes, there weren’t really any of them that you would say were $230 million-worthy passes,” Griffin said. “All they needed him to do was manage the game because them dogs they got over there on defense, starting with Myles Garrett.”
“I can go out there and manage a game for the Cleveland Browns and help them go on the Super Bowl run that they want to go on.”
Would Be Griffin’s Second Time In Cleveland
The former Baylor Bears star spent the 2016 season in Cleveland as the team’s starter. In five starts, he totaled 886 yards passing, two touchdowns and three interceptions. Griffin says he trains weekly hoping for another shot.
He hasn’t played in an NFL game since 2020, and the likelihood he joins the Browns is slim to none. But, it never hurts to try, and, as they say, the only shots you miss are the ones you don’t take.
The Bengals Front Office Is To Blame For Joe Burrow’s Injury History | Cincinnati Bengals Lose Their QB1
On Friday, Nov. 17, it was announced that Cincinnati Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow would miss the rest of the 2023 NFL season with a torn ligament in his throwing wrist. In the team’s 34-20 loss to the Ravens, Burrow could be seen wincing in pain after throwing a touchdown pass to running back Joe Mixon.
On the sidelines, Burrow attempted to go grip and throw the football, but as he tried to grip the ball it slipped out of his hand — further proof that something was really wrong. With their playoff lives already teetering, the Bengals at 5-5 must try to salvage the rest of their season minus their franchise QB.
A pretty-dejected Burrow told reporters this on Friday, “The play before it happened, I landed on the wrist a little bit, and the next play, the touchdown pass, just felt a pop in the middle of the throw. Tried to give it a go but just couldn’t get it done, and obviously got the news today, so not great.”
Burrow also mentioned that the injury had nothing to do with him being seen wearing a brace on his right wrist as the team traveled on Wednesday. But the league is reportedly looking into if the Bengals withheld injury information on Burrow’s condition.
Burrow’s Injury History A Product Of Front-Office Failures
Since arriving in Cincinnati in 2020, Burrow has been one of the most sacked (148 sacks in just 52 career starts) and hit quarterbacks in the league. One would think for a guy of his stature, having led the franchise to a Super Bowl and back-to-back AFC Championship appearances, that team brass would do everything in its power to protect him.
He’s now in his fourth season, and thus far they haven’t done a good enough job of it. That’s played a role in him missing what will now be 15 career games in under four full NFL seasons.
Team Attempted To Rectify OL Issues This Past Offseason
In 2022, the Bengals ranked 30th in pass blocking win rate, and Burrow was sacked 38 times while in the pocket (fourth worst in the league). That forced Bengals brass to go out and make some changes to the unit, and while they did the unit on paper is a huge upgrade. But as of now it seems that they’re having trouble meshing, and that can’t happen when you’re trying to keep your star player upright.
That lack of continuity played a role in Burrow now being lost for the season, and for all intents and purposes, likely ended the Bengals season just 10 weeks in as well.
In Must-Win Game, Colorado Quits On Coach Prime In Blowout Loss
The Colorado Buffaloes came to Pullman, Washington, needing a win to keep its bowl eligibility alive. What they gave was arguably the most disinterested and lackluster performance of the season. In the team’s 56-14 loss to the Washington State Cougars, the Buffs quit on Deion Sanders and their season.
From the onset they looked overmatched and ready to pack it in. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who prior to being forced from the game because of injury, broke the single-season passing yards mark for the Buffaloes. As he’s been all season, Sanders met what every other Pac-12 opponent has done to the Buffs’ offensive line; he was battered and bruised by a Cougars defense. At the time of his exit due to injury, Sanders had become the most-sacked and hit QB in all of college football this season, not exactly the stats in which you wanna have the lead.
Sanders Calls Out Team For Quitting
In his postgame interview, a pretty upset Coach Prime took his team to task for their effort.
“Very sad at how we played. We practiced hard all week, we prepared like no other. To display a performance like that is not is who we are or how we are,” a sick Coach Prime said in a brief postgame interview. “I have been boasting since the beginning of the season that I had not seen us quit or turn it down. There were some plays in the first half I didn’t see the passion I wanted to see. We got on them at halftime, and they went back out there and balled. I applaud them for fighting in the second half.”
Trailing 42-7 at halftime, there wasn’t much the Buffaloes could do in the second half after not trying for much of the first half. But Sanders did say he saw more of an effort and want to win after halftime. That still doesn’t change the fact that Washington State hadn’t won a game since Sept. 23 thoroughly dominated them from start to finish.
Buffaloes Lack An Identity
After 11 games (4-7), the Buffs still have no identity. Outside of Shedeur slinging the football and running for his life, there just isn’t much there. Sanders told reporters this about that.
“That’s not who we are,” Prime said of how the team played in the game. “Still trying to figure out who we are and our identity — but I still don’t know after all these weeks.”
With one game left in their season, a road trip to Utah, the Buffs now have to hope a wacky scenario where teams won’t have the minimum six wins required to become bowl eligible to hope to land an invite to a postseason bowl game. That scenario is highly unlikely, meaning next Saturday’s road game at Utah, win or lose, will cap an eventful first season for the Buffs.
The Arrival Of Tyrese Maxey Makes The 76ers Legit Title Contenders
The Philadelphia 76ers are playing like legit title contenders, and guard Tyrese Maxey is a huge reason why. Maxey is averaging 27 points, five rebounds, and six assists per game on 48/42/94 shooting splits. He’s currently 11th in the league in BPM.
One of the writers here at The Shadow League offered the following about Maxey before the season began:
Through his first three years in the league he’s steadily improved. He already has four 30-point playoff games in his short career. There is a huge James Harden elephant in the Philadelphia locker room to remove. If and when it does go, Maxey might explode.
He’s an elite shooter, races with and without the ball, and is effective on ball and off ball on the move. If new head coach Nick Nurse, who has a lot to prove, can connect with Maxey and Embiid this could be franchise-changing.
Maxey Has Made A Leap
Not to toot my own horn but … BEEP BEEP!
All that said, it’s possible I undersold Maxey. Yes, the Harden trade has freed him up and he’s exploded. He was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week for the first time in his career at the end of October.
Not only is he a leading candidate for most improved, he’s on track to be an All-Star this year, and if this continues all season he might make an All-NBA team.
A perennial MVP candidate in Joel Embiid, who is playing like one again so far this season, and an All-NBA level guard with role players that defend, shoot and make winning plays is a recipe for playoff success.
The 76ers are currently third in aNET rating, fifth in aORTG and eighth in aDRTG. That’s the profile of a championship contender.
We are a long way from the NBA playoffs, and as good as Maxey is, he’s still only 23 years old and in his forth season. His 26.3 percent usage rate is the highest he’s had so far in his career and his turnover percentage has actually gone down. A rarity for most players.
Let’s see if that continues as we get to the quarter mark of the season.
We mentioned his 30-point playoff performances. Those might be easier when you aren’t at the top of a team’s scouting report. Let’s see how he handles being the focus of the opponent’s best perimeter defender.
Tyrese Maxey goes off on the court (Image Credit: Twitter @ESPN)
Former Teammate Sees Greatness In Maxey
Harden, despite no longer being teammates with Maxey, still communicates with the young guard and sees big things for him.
“He works extremely hard; good things are definitely going to come his way,” Harden told The Athletic. “He listens, he puts the work in, as a young guy in this league that’s all you can ask for. As he gets more reps at that scoring, playmaking role, he’ll figure things out, you know, in a good way, how different teams are gonna guard him. I’m extremely and overly proud of him; he gets an opportunity to showcase his game.”
Say what you want about Harden. But he knows hoops, and as an elite scoring and playmaking guard himself and former MVP, he knows what elite play at that position looks like.
Championships are not won in November, but playing well matters and potentially winning the inaugural In-Season Tournament could be a positive step for this team.
The 76ers have failed to advance to the conference finals since becoming a perennial playoff team in the 2017-18 season. They’ve had their share of bitter postseason disappointment.
Advancing out of group play and winning the single-elimination tourney will give them an early look at how they respond to pressure and how head coach Nick Nurse will make decisions in the heat of battle.
It will also give Maxey a chance to show what he can do when teams are locked in on stopping him. All the pieces matter as they build towards a title run next spring.
Ice Cube’s A Threat To NBA But A Hero To Hoops Culture: Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Is Starting The Inaugural Ice Cube Impact Award
Ice Cube is a hip-hop legend and strong cultural influencer for his various endeavors over the years, from movies to starting The Big3 to speaking on social issues.
Thanks to his contributions to the game of basketball, he is finally being recognized as a legendary contributor to the hardwood. A prestigious award is being named after him in honor of his contributions to hoops culture.
Ice Cube is get honored for his work. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images for BIG3)
On Tuesday, Nov. 14, the Naismith Basketball Hall Of Fame announced that it is starting the inaugural Ice Cube Impact Award.
“Basketball has had a positive impact on my life in so many ways. Thank you to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame for establishing the ‘Ice Cube Impact Award,’ which will honor those who work to improve their community by using basketball as a tool to help kids,” tweeted Ice Cube.
O’Shea Jackson Sr., also known as Ice Cube, has been a lifelong basketball fan, and sports has impacted him since he was younger.
He even messed around and got a triple double.
But the impact that sports in general has had on Cube led him to start the popular BIG3 basketball league. As a passionate basketball fan who often wore the jerseys of various hoops legends in his videos and appearances, Cube did note that his inspiration to start this basketball league was an opportunity to continue providing fans with basketball action after the NBA season ended. Summer basketball for the junkie.
“The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Award named in my honor is truly remarkable, and words alone can’t express my gratitude for this recognition from such a prestigious organization,” said Ice Cube. “Having an award bearing my name only intensifies my commitment to advancing inclusivity and equal opportunity in sports, alongside my unwavering dedication to community activism.”
It’s crazy that the love and passion for nonstop basketball helped him achieve heights he never thought possible.
The Naismith Basketball Hall Of Fame couldn’t agree more.
In a statement by the Hall Of Fame they said their decision to name an award after the legendary California rapper was to honor his “extraordinary contributions to the world of basketball, his unparalleled passion for the game, and his unwavering commitment to encouraging crucial dialogues surrounding inclusivity, equal opportunity, and racial and social justice while contributing to initiatives focused on education and community development.”
Ice Cube’s story is known to many by now. If it wasn’t his music with N.W.A. or his solo hip-hop career, then we learned about it through the countless documentaries or the critically acclaimed “Straight Out Of Compton” flick. His rise to fame allowed his current approach of giving back to the different communities in some artistic, socially conscious and easily definable way.
Cube has already seen a return on investment for his work in the culture, but being immortalized in basketball greatness by having an impact award named after you has to feel worth it as well.
Angel Reese Benched! Her Reign As Queen Deflated, Because You’re Only As Good As Your Last Game
Angel Reese had a tremendous run last season, but that was last season. The NIL Queen and pop culture sensation lived reality in the offseason that many professional basketball players have yet to achieve.
From making a cameo in a Cardi B music video to becoming a Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue model, Angel Reese is basking in the glory of LSU’s first national championship in basketball last season. Now, she is a benched player who needs an “attitude adjustment,” per reports.
In the new world of NIL and early celebrity for collegiate student-athletes, Reese might need to return to earth in basketball terms. Reese’s benching is surprising only four games into the season, given the rise of her stature and ubiquity across top media platforms.
Humbling The Queen
LSU women’s basketball head coach Kim Mulkey criticized her team when they lost their season opener against Colorado on Nov. 6, 92-78, by then-No. 20 Colorado in their season opener. Reese played 30 minutes, scored 15 points on 6 of 15 shooting (40 percent), and had 12 rebounds and one assist.
“I’m disappointed and surprised in some players I thought would be tougher and have a little fight and leadership about them,” Mulkey said after the loss, leaving many to speculate that she was talking about her celebrity forward, Reese.
“You live with poor shooting,” Mulkey continued. “You live with a tough night offensively. What I don’t live with is no guts and fight and physical play. You have to have that dog in you, and I don’t think we had it tonight.”
On Tuesday, Reese did not play in the second half of a 109-79 win over Kent State. The lightly-regarded team was down to LSU by only two points by halftime, 39-37. Reese had 11 points and five rebounds in 13 minutes but did not touch the hardwood after the half due to a “coach’s decision,” LSU coach Kim Mulkey said.
Continued Cohesion?
Although it is early, many are concerned that LSU might not be able to repeat its Cinderella season even though they are currently at 3-1. Reese’s faceoff against Iowa’s Caitlyn Clark in last season’s collegiate championship faceoff made Reese a national figure. To repeat last year’s serendipity, cohesion is necessar, however, there are some cracks already being seen.
Off the court, Reese’s mother, Angel Reese Webb, had a social media beef with teammate Flau’jae Johnson’s mother, Kia Brooks, where they seemingly criticized each other on Instagram. Among other accusations, Johnson’s mother said Angel Reese “got a 2.0 or less GPA.”
Angel Reese is under pressure early in the season. (Image Credit: Twitter @SINow)
Whether that is true was not confirmed.
Angel Reese is experiencing life under the microscope since last year’s success, but now the world wants to know if she and the LSU Tigers can repeat amid all the off-the-court success. Mulkey intends to send a message that to make that happen, the team must stay diligent, even if that means benching her prominent star.
Chicago Bulls Likely To Start Trading Off Stars and Alex Caruso Should Be At The Top Of Every Contender Wish List
The Chicago Bulls are off to a 4-8 start, and according to reports will make players available for trades. Naturally, fans of playoff teams and title contenders will get excited over the prospect of adding players like Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and to a lesser extent Nikola Vucevic. But Alex Caruso should be at the top of every contender wish list.
Of the Bulls’ top-10 rotation players this season, Caruso is No. 1 in BPM, three points per 100 possessions, better than No. 2 DeRozan. In other words, when he is on the floor the Bulls tend to be better and outscore their opponents.
A Winning Player At A Low Salary
At $9.4 million in salary due this year and $9.8 million partially guaranteed for next year, acquiring him at that price is tantalizing for any of the clubs already at the upper echelon of the salary cap and luxury tax thresholds.
Caruso is an elite defender, made All-Defensive first team last season, and is a career 36 percent three-point shooter. He’s shooting a career-high 44 percent so far this season. He also has championship experience, winning with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
Last week the Bulls lost an overtime game to the Phoenix Suns where Caruso’s dogged defense on superstar Kevin Durant, produced turnovers or empty possessions that kept the Bulls close. Following the game, KD gave props to Caruso.
A Star In His Role
“He’s a phenomenal player. I don’t even want to call him a role player,” Durant said. “But just a guy that you can plug with any lineup and he’s going to make the right reads, the right plays on the defensive and offensive side.”
He is a role player, it’s not disrespectful to call him that. He is a star in his role. That’s what playoff teams and contenders need.
On offense you don’t need to run any plays for him. He will move the ball, cut when he doesn’t have the ball and hit the offensive glass.
On defense he will guard the opponent’s best guard or wing player, and he’s switchable. He’ll contest early with high hands, blow up passes with wide hands, and strip any ballhandler who is not tight with their dribble.
All of those traits help you win possessions. In the playoffs it is paramount that the lineups you have on the floor win possessions.
Imagine Caruso on the Philadelphia 76ers, sharing the backcourt with Tyrese Maxey, who is not good defensively. The 76ers need Maxey’s scoring, but can protect him with Caruso, Joel Embiid, De’Anthony Melton and Tobias Harris.
Caruso would fit perfectly in the Golden State Warriors’ read-and-react system, and their defensive versatility would be among the best in the league.
It’s not just about the big names you see on “SportsCenter” every night. Yes, you need players that can fill it up. But there are so many other ways to win possessions besides scoring, and the best teams have players who do both.
Travis Hunter Inks New NIL Deal With Toy Company: Regardless Of How Many Games Colorado Wins, Playing For Coach Prime Was A Winning Move
Travis Hunter is one of college football’s most exciting players, and with the huge fan following and exceptional play he’s had this year, the NIL deals and swimming pools of money will follow as well.
Travis Hunter Getting New BagWith Toy Company
Hunter has all types of NIL deals and is among some of the NCAA’s elite, not only on the field but in earnings as well.
His two-way play also landed him another NIL deal, but this one is more unusual than your typical deal.
Hunter signed with the toy company Squishmallows, and it was first teased by Squishmallows on an Instagram post, as well as Squishmallows showing up to Colorado’s 34-31 home loss to Arizona on Nov. 11.
Captioning the picture of a life-sized squishmallow next to the Colorado Buffalo’s mascot “#SquishmallowSquad always brings their A-game! 🏈 Thank you, Colorado, for making our @CUBoulder#SquishTour Tailgate a smashing success! ❤️”
Hunter is a huge fan of Squishmallows and even has some normally in his background during his “12 talks” podcast.
What Are Squishmallows?
Squishmallows are anthropomorphic stuffed toys that also can come in many shapes, sizes, and forms, such as animals, foods, and objects.
But since Travis Hunter signed a NIL deal with them we can probably expect to see Travis Hunter look-alike Squishmallows, or possibly Colorado Buffalo-inspired Squishmallows with his jersey on them.
Just brainstorming.
Either way, there are plenty of brands that have centered some of their marketing campaigns on the star receiver/corner, including Cheez-it, American Eagle, and Fortnite, just to name a few deals. Now he gets to add Squishmallow to the list.
The valuation of Hunter’s NIL deals reportedly goes over $2 million, putting him up there with some of the top athletes in college football, although his teammate and head coach Deion Sanders’ son Shedeur Sanders has a $5.3 million NIL value.
Either way, they’re getting money over there in Colorado, but unfortunately, their play and their record aren’t reflecting their financial value, at least from a team perspective. The Colorado Buffaloes are 4-6 as they head into Friday’s matchup against the Washington State Cougars, which kicks off at 10:30 p.m. EST.
The team has been struggling on the field, but Hunter has certainly held his own on offense and defense.
Travis Hunter was the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2022 recruiting class. He was committed to play at Florida State, but Deion backdoored his alma mater and got Hunter to flip, becoming the highest-touted HBCU prospect in the modern era. He’s forever a part of history and his game is as advertised.
The two-way star was born in Florida, played high school football in Georgia and followed Deion Sanders from Jackson State to Colorado.
Hunter established his presence in the season’s first game, racking up 11 receptions for 119 yards and three tackles with an interception while playing 144 snaps for the Buffaloes in Week 1.
He broke the mold for real, showing athletes across the country that under the right circumstances HBCU football programs can be an option as a springboard to the NFL.
Hunter said at the time, that he joined Deion because he was real.
“They were straight with me. They didn’t play no games; they came right at me.”
You can assume he was real about the money Hunter could make as a member of Deion’s original JSU gravy train too. The Buffs may not have had the first season that the college football world wanted, but things are working out splendidly for Travis.
Travis Hunter: Paul Hornung Award Finalist
Hunter is a finalist for the Paul Hornung Award, which is given to the most versatile player in college football.
Considering Hunter regularly plays the majority of the snaps on both sides of the ball at an elite level, he qualifies for this award.
Even though Hunter is securing his bag, he’s hoping that his personal success continues to boost and reinvigorate the team.
NFL Sideline Reporter Charissa Thompson Admits Making Up Reports — So Casually Her Privilege Bled On Journalism and Infuriated Her Female Colleagues
Former NFL sideline reporter turned “Thursday Night Football” desk host Charissa Thompson kept it “real” about how she has kept it fake on certain occasions while “reporting” what coaches are feeling in real-time during games.
Thompson revealed that she would make things up if she couldn’t write a report during halftime, and many of her contemporaries were very vocal in their disgust.
“I’ve said this before,” Thompson noted while on the “Pardon My Take” podcast. “I haven’t been fired for saying it, but I’ll say it again. I would make up the report sometimes, because A, the coach wouldn’t come out at halftime, or it was too late and I didn’t want to screw up the report. So I was like, ‘I’m just gonna make this up.’
“Because first of all, no coach is gonna get mad if I say, ‘Hey, we need to stop hurting ourselves, we need to be better on third down, we need to stop turning the ball over and do a better job of getting off the field.’ They’re not gonna correct me on that. So I’m like, ‘It’s fine, I’ll just make up the report.”
Troubling Patterns
Thompson isn’t lying this time. She did say this before.
“I was like ‘Oh coach, what adjustments are you gonna make at halftime?’ He goes, ‘That’s a great perfume you’re wearing.’ I was like ‘oh f*ck, this isn’t gonna work.’ I’m not kidding, I made up a report,” Thompson said on the latest episode of “Calm Down with Erin and Charissa.”
The most revealing part: She wasn’t alone in this strategy.
“I’ve done that too,” Andrews also said on the podcast. “For a coach that I didn’t wanna throw under the bus because he was telling me all the wrong stuff!”
Fellow colleagues like CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson took to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, to dispel the admission as something that is unacceptable.
“This is absolutely not ok, not the norm and upsetting on so many levels. I take my job very seriously, I hold myself accountable for all I say, I build trust with coaches and never make something up. I know my fellow reporters do the same.”
Now the polarization goes two ways with the admissions: Charissa Thompson and Erin Andrews can reach the highest heights of in-game sports journalism while telling the world they fabricate their reporting. Also, what went over many people’s heads is that the coach who asked about what perfume Thompson was wearing was either dry flirting or unprofessional when the topic was only football, based on her profession.
That sets up an argument for diverting the report based on the unprofessionalism of the interview subject, which could lead to problems for her career.
The Privilege Principle
Since the outrage began, Thompson took to her Instagram to clear the air.
“Ok, let’s address the elephant in the room. I have a responsibility to myself and my employers to clarify what is being reported. When on a podcast this week, I said I would make up reports early in my career when I worked as a sideline reporter before I transitioned to my current host role.
“Working in media I understand how important words are and I chose the wrong words to describe the situation. I’m sorry. I have never lied about anything or been unethical during my time as a sports broadcaster.”
Does a simple, “I’m sorry” fix what looks like privilege on steroids in reporting? After all, Thompson’s career has only advanced from her previous antics. To the reporters building relationships, challenging the coaches and players, and remaining steadfast in their journalism goals, stay the course because the truth always comes to light.
Tiger Woods’ Teenage Son Charlie Already Achieved Something In Golf That The GOAT Never Did, But He’ll Never Make It Out Of Dad’s Shadow
Charlie Woods has accomplished something in the game of golf his legendary father never did: a high-school state golf championship gold medal. Freshman Charlie helped The Benjamin School capture a Florida high school state golf championship on Wednesday, Nov. 15, at Mission Inn Resort and Club in Howey-In-The-Hills, Florida. Is future success in the cards for the younger Woods?
Young Woods Contributes To State Championship Win
Charlie finished in a tie for 26th overall and was fourth out of five golfers on The Benjamin School’s boys team as the team won the FHSAA Class A state championship.
The 14-year-old Woods had his best day of the tournament on day two when he shot a 76 to help the team capture the title.
The elder Woods was an elite golfer at the same age as Charlie, but never won a state high- school championship at Western High School in Anaheim, California.
The 15-time major champion won the CIF SoCal Regional in 1991 and was the Southern Section medalist in 1991, 1993 and 1994. During his high-school career, Woods became the then-youngest golfer to win the U.S. Junior Amateur when he captured the first of his three consecutive titles in 1991.
The younger Woods playing golf and following in his father’s footsteps is a nice story that tugs at the heartstrings. But you have to wonder if it’s a good idea for Charlie. He obviously loves the game, but being in the shadow of a golf giant can’t be easy.
Charlie Woods Will Walk His Own Path
Charlie is a good golfer in his age group, but he isn’t the prodigy his father was. That’s okay. You do wonder though if he knows that it’s okay?
The viral videos of father and son playing together and having the same swing, mannerisms and more are great. But we should all allow Charlie to have his own journey in the game and not project future golf superstardom onto him. He’s only a freshman in high school.
From everything that’s been publicly available, the elder Woods doesn’t appear to be one of those overbearing sports parents. He wants Charlie to enjoy the game, and praises him in areas where he has shown improvement, and offers advice from his vast reservoir of knowledge and experience.
We have no idea if Charlie will ever make the PGA Tour. For now, improving as a high-school golfer and potentially earning a scholarship would be quite the achievement.
Consider that there are roughly three million junior golfers, and roughly 1,300 division-one golf scholarships. You’ve got to be really good to land one. That he’s a freshman contributing to a high-school state championship is a good sign for the younger Woods.
With his Colorado Buffaloes team currently on a four-game losing streak and needing to win their final two games of the season to become bowl eligible, first-year head coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders is attempting to flip the script on his team’s struggles.
How Can Colorado End Losing Streak?
For a team that began the season 3-0, only to lose six of the their past seven games, Sanders is looking for any way to motivate his team.
Never bashful in what he says, during his weekly coach’s show Coach Prime seemed to take that a little further. When asked about his team’s struggles after such a hot start, Sanders didn’t make excuses. He also was asked if he thought the losing could affect recruiting and adding transfers in a negative way.
Sanders Believes Recruits Are Looking At The Buffaloes Differently
“They’re not thinking about what transpired. They’re thinking about them being the missing piece of the puzzle to help this transpire,” Sanders said.
Will Colorado Losing Streak Affect Recruiting?
That’s an interesting way to put it if you’re Sanders. It sounds good, but no one really knows if the losing will truly affect recruiting as of now. While they did lose the commitment of 2025 four-star wideout Winston Watkins Jr., this week, that isolated move isn’t enough to point to a trend. Watkins also stated he was staying in with the Buffs but wants to keep his options open.
Coach Prime Is No Dummy
Saying things like recruits and/or transfers will look at it as an opportunity to come in and fill a void is borderline genius. What it does is make guys feel like they can be the reason things change. And what player doesn’t want to say they helped transform a program from cellar dwellers to FBS kings?
Deion Sanders A Master At Deflecting Attention Away From Team
It also takes the attention off of this current team, which in many ways has already overachieved, especially when you consider the program won a single game last season, and just four the previous year.
But that surprising 3-0 start raised expectations much higher than they were entering the season. With expectations comes unnecessary pressure, and it sounds as if Deion just wants his guys to play and have fun.
That hasn’t been the case for weeks, and it’s shown in the lack of results.
Colorado visits the Washington State Cougars tonight on FS1 in their second Friday night lights action of the season.
NBA Rookie Meter 3 | Who’s Miami Heat Baller Jaime Jaquez and Why Is He Proving To Be Perfect For Heat Culture?
It’s that time of week where we rank the rookies around the NBA. And for the third week in a row it’s a new rook leading the way.
Jaime Jaquez Miami Heat, F/G
The Miami Heat pride themselves on Heat Culture, and Jaquez, the former UCLA Bruins star seems like a perfect fit for them. After beginning the season 1-4, the reigning Eastern Conference champions are riding a league-leading six-game winning streak, and Jaquez has been a big part of it the turnaround. Having played in all 11 games this season, Jaquez is averaging 9.1 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists in just about 23 minutes of playing time per game.
Some GMs have touted Jaquez as the steal of the draft. As for Jaquez, he’s just trying to get better every day. He told the Sun Sentinel this in an interview.
“I’m just learning as a I go,” he said. “This is the game I’ve played my entire life. This is all I’ve ever wanted to do. I know when I got my chance, I was gonna be ready. That’s why I did four years of college, to prepare for this, so I could be ready and confident in my life.
“To go out there and make an impact right away, that was kind of my plan all along.”
Chet Holmgren, OKC Thunder, F/C
One of the unicorns in the rookie class, the other being San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama. Holmgren, who missed all of last season with a foot injury, has burst on the scene for the steadily rising Thunder, who are 7-4 and 3-1 in their last four. The former Gonzaga standout has been good on both ends of the floor, averaging 15.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game.
Shooting nearly 53 percent from the field and 47 percent from three are also very nice.
Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons, F/G
Thompson has quickly earned the title of stat sheet stuffer in just 12 games. While the team is struggling mightily at just 2-10, Thompson has been a bright spot. The supremely athletic wing has consistently displayed two-way ability and his nightly double-doubles are quickly becoming the norm in the Motor City.
The former Overtime Elite star is averaging a cool 12 points and ten rebounds per game. In Tuesday’s loss to the Atlanta Hawks, Thompson scored a career-best 21 points.
Victor Wembanyama, SA Spurs, F/C
As the Frenchman continues to get acclimated to the NBA game, he also shows flashes of what he can be. In Tuesday’s matchup up against the aforementioned Holmgren, Wemby pulled down a game-high 14 rebounds. While his shooting percentages have dipped a bit to 43 percent from the floor and 28 percent from the three, he’s still affecting the game in other ways and averaging nearly 19 points, nine rebounds and three blocks per game.
Derek Lively II, Dallas Mavericks, C
The bouncy former Duke Blue Devils star has been everything that the Mavericks could’ve asked for when they took him in the first round. Lively’s upside is enormous, and he’s already anchoring a Mavs defense that’s shown flashes of the team that made the 2022 Western Conference finals.
“The Lies Have To Stop” | Former New York Knicks Star Mark Jackson Sets Record Straight On Why He Turned Down Dysfunctional Knicks Announcing Gig
For some strange reason the history between the New York Knicks and some of its former greats can be described as tenuous at best.
Who can forget the heated scuffle between former Knicks enforcer and NBA tough guy Charles Oakley and Madison Square Garden security back in 2017.
The incident stemmed from Oakley being a longtime critic of team owner James Dolan, who Oakley says orchestrated the attack.
Now comes a report that former Knicks point guard and ESPN analyst Mark Jackson and the team are at odds over something. Jackson reportedly was in line to be a spot duty replacement for Knicks legend Walt Clyde Frazier for MSG as an in-game play-by-play. That plan has reportedly been halted. And, per the New York Post, there’s an odd reason why.
Andrew Marchand Tells Why Jackson Is No Longer Being Considered
“MSG planned on having Jackson occasionally fill in for Clyde Frazier this season,” Marchand reported. “But Knicks management, led by team president Leon Rose, put a kibosh on the arrangement in part due to an old quarrel with Jackson and a current Knicks assistant coach, according to sources.”
Jackson would’ve filled in for Frazier on the road as the 78-year-old, who in June told reporters he hopes to call for “as long as possible,” is cutting down on the travel. That’s where Jackson and former Knicks coach and ESPN analyst Jeff Van Gundy’s name came in. But JVG took a gig with the rival Boston Celtics, leaving Jackson to possibly handle the road gig. But not anymore.
Jackson Says Not So Fast
Jackson quickly responded to the rumors in a video posted to his Instagram account, calling the report bogus.
“At some point, the lies have got to stop.”
“Today, a report came out that I was fired or dismissed from calling Knicks games,” Jackson said in his Instagram post. “Honored and privileged to have an offer bestowed upon me to back up the legend Walt Clyde Frazier calling Knicks games. Over a week ago, I turned the job down. You heard what I said: More than a week ago, I turned the job down a week due to the fact it wasn’t the ideal conditions, and it wasn’t the ideal time for me.”
Jackson, did mention that he’d be open to calling Knicks games in the future, if needed, but for now he’s good. He also took a subtle jab at Marchand and sort of praised him for his resolve in attempting to create a narrative even it was false.
