The broadcasting sensation and blonde bombshell, Katie Miller, is dating the Minnesota Golden Gophers‘ Cole Kramer but who exactly is she? Why has she taken the cameras by storm?
A fight on the field of the NCAA‘s Quick Lane Bowl game between the Gophers and Bowling Green Falcons on December 26 wasn’t the only talking point during the football contest hosted at Ford Field.
Angel Reese TikTok video looks like it is stolen from Olivia Dunne
A lot of the attention went to Katie Miller, the fiance of the Gopher’s back-up quarterback Kramer, as she became a regular feature on the broadcast thanks to hear tanned skin, pearly white teeth and bright blonde hair.
Miller works as a nurse but is quickly becoming a social media personality, attracting some 3600 followers on Instagram, which is owned by Meta. Kramer will head for a career in sales but they’re both set to relocate to Arizona.
Miller’s tribute to Kramer
Miller ook to the field after the Gophers‘ 30-24 victory to celebrate with her fiance and later posted a heart-felt message for her football player.
It was his fifth year in high school and he was even paid tribute prior to the game but the cameras had already chosen to focus on his woman instead, although she took no notice after the match.
“By your side every step of the way,” Miller said on Instagram. “The most humble & hardworking guy, you deserve every good thing and more.
“So incredibly proud of you and the strength and humility you’ve shown throughout this chapter of your life. I adore you #12… Now lets get MARRIED!!!!”
Fans react to Miller
Blonde, young and attractive, Miller was a cameraman’s dream and they could not keep away from her during the broadcast, even commentators gushed over their engagement and love.
Katie Miller/Instagram
As a result, much discussion was centered around her online as fans took to X.com, formerly Twitter, to talk about her.
A one user wrote, “Cole Kramer was ready to be done with the #Gophers and move on with his finance…then the @quicklanebowl came calling!”
A second said, “One thing about the Quicken Lane Bowl is you’re gonna know Cole Kramer and Katie Miller are getting married.”
Colorado Buffaloes superfan Peggy Coppom, aged 99, has witnessed the tenure of 16 head football coaches in Boulder over the past 80 years.
However, her experience with the latest coach, Deion Sanders, has been unparalleled. Sanders, who was hired in December, visited Coppom’s house to introduce himself in January, capturing the moment on video.
Deion Sanders got Shedeur Sanders ambushed in public in crazy recruiting story
The unique friendship that blossomed between them has set Sanders apart from other Colorado coaches. The flamboyant, world-famous Black former athlete from Florida and the unpretentious, white Irish Catholic great-grandmother from eastern Colorado found common ground and became close friends.
“Well, my gosh, this year, first of all, it’s been unbelievable, and it’s been a lot of fun,” Coppom told USA TODAY Sports in a recent interview.
“There’s been a lot of excitement and a lot of public recognition, which I didn’t ever feel like I should have. But anyway, it happened because of my friendship with him.”
Sanders and Coppom’s connection gained attention as they appeared together on the cover of Sports Illustrated and Coppom was featured in a documentary series about Sanders on Amazon Prime Video.
Sanders found inspiration in Coppom
The friendship brought joy to Coppom, helping her cope with the loss of her identical twin sister and fellow Buffs superfan, Betty Hoover, who passed away in 2020. Sanders, in turn, found inspiration in Coppom’s well-lived and well-loved life.
“Peggy is unbelievable, man,” Sanders told USA TODAY Sports.
“She’s a pillar of stability. She’s a pillar of love, a pillar of hope, of consistency, legacy. And she’s so dear.
Louisiana State gymnast Olivia Dunne, known for her success with the LSU Tigers and Sports Illustrated swimsuit modeling, has teased a new career venture on social media.
The 21-year-old athlete, with 4.5 million Instagram followers, shared a selfie wearing a gray sweatshirt in New York, expressing excitement about a photoshoot.
Olivia Dunne’s sexy Santa outfit sends fans wild
While the nature of the venture remains undisclosed, Dunne continues to diversify her content, showcasing aspects of her gymnastics career, social life, and modeling.
This teaser follows her participation in Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit edition this year, with plans for a return in the next edition.
In addition to the career anticipation, Dunne recently celebrated her teammate Haleigh Bryant‘s birthday, posting images from their friendship and labeling Bryant as the ‘GOAT’ (Greatest of All Time).
The gymnast’s dynamic presence across various spheres continues to captivate her audience and fuel curiosity about her evolving career.
Struggling with fame
However, back in November she spoke out about how the fame and popularity has taken a toll on her mental wellbeing previously.
“The past few years, juggling NIL or ever since my sophomore year, since the summer of 2021, I’ve definitely had a hard time finding balance,” Dunne said to People.
“That’s really important because if you don’t have balance, that can affect your mental health.
“I finally feel like I got a grasp on it this year. It’s just compartmentalizing things mentally is very important in my everyday routine.”
Angel Reese has been a major talking point over the past month. This week the NCAA basketball star made a sensational return to the courts after an extended absence.
It was on November 14 when Reese was sidelined during LSU’s game against Kente state- a decision that raised plenty of eyebrows given her importance on the team. She didn’t make a single appearance in the four games that followed, which sparked plenty of speculation over why she wasn’t playing.
Angel Reese stuns with new look after basketball return
She marked her return with an 89-point victory over McNeese State on Thursday. “Everyone has a chapter they don’t read out loud. just remember, this my world y’all just living in it,” said Reese on Instagram after the game- a message which seemed to hint at some sort of recent personal struggle.
Reese’s return is great news for both team and fans. She marked it with a special makeover from the ‘weave ologist’, getting some glamorous and extra-long hair extensions. “40-inch BUSS DOWNNNN,” commented the college star on the video of her new look posted by the salon’s Instagram account.
Fans couldn’t get enough of the look, flocking to the comments to express their approval for her new style. “Soooo pretty she’s definitely a Barbie,” commented one user. “40in is crazy thooooo,” wrote another.
From Dante Exum’s sudden emergence at Dallas to a new problem for Josh Giddey at Oklahoma City, there is plenty of Australian storylines to keep an eye on in the NBA.
Plus — the two words that sum up Patty Mills after the veteran guard played his second game for the Hawks.
That and more in our latest wrap of all the Australians in the NBA!
Watch an average of 9 NBA Regular Season games per week LIVE on ESPN, available via Kayo. New to Kayo? Start Your Free Trial Today >
Green ejected for wild swinging arm | 00:54
DANTE EXUM (Dallas Mavericks)
Exum, the fifth overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, had everything he needed to be a solid role player in the NBA.
He had the defensive instincts. He had the playmaking skills. He had the length and versatility. All that was missing was a consistent jumper.
He may have just found it and in the process unlocked the enormous ceiling that saw him taken early in the draft by the Utah Jazz all those years ago.
Development in the NBA — and any sport — is not a linear process.
Exum’s recent resurgence is proof of it, having headed overseas after a string of unfortunate injuries derailed the early stages of his career in the NBA.
After two years in Europe, Exum is back in the league and thriving. He is also doing so on a two-year, $6.2 million deal — a contract which is quickly proving a bargain for Dallas.
Only the first year is guaranteed but if Exum even puts up half the production he had on Wednesday against the Lakers he won’t be leaving the Mavericks anytime soon.
Exum made a career-high seven 3-pointers in a 26-point explosion against Los Angeles to improve Dallas’ record to 4-0 with the Australian in the starting line-up.
“He’s playing at a high level right now on both ends,” Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said post-game.
“With the injuries, it’s given him confidence and you can see that, not just shooting the 3s but attacking the basket there in the first quarter getting that layup, not just settling.”
Exum is currently in the five for the injured Kyrie Irving (right foot), although he could have very well played himself into a permanent starting spot even when the superstar guard returns given the way he is performing.
“He’s on one right now, Dante Exum,” ESPN journalist Zach Lowe said on NBA Today.
“He’s making a case to start when the Mavs are healthy and if he can hit enough 3s, he’s not going to shoot 7-for-9 every game, but if he can hit 40 per cent from the corners he’s big, he’s rangy, he can kind of make those connecting passes.
“They might have something cooking here.”
Either way, Exum will certainly see more minutes when Irving returns given the value he is offering Dallas on both ends.
Aussie Exum POPS OFF for 7 x threes | 01:40
“We’ve talked about how his IQ is extremely high,” added Kidd.
“He knows how to play the right way. Luka (Doncic) or Kai (Kyrie Irving) or whomever he’s out there with, those guys trust him and you saw that with Luka.
“Luka probably has to lead the league in double teams. He’s been double-teamed for a majority of the game. His trust with his teammates, if it’s not Timmy [Hardaway Jr.], it’s Exum.
“… You trust that the guys are going to make the right play or take the shot. Tonight, Exum was the one he was looking for.”
And Exum consistently made his shots, with Doncic describing the Australian’s performance as “amazing”.
“His plays, his defence, and obviously his shooting today. He has been amazing for us,” added the Slovenian.
The shooting has not always been there for Exum, which is why the Lakers and other teams have played their five on him and sagged off daring the 28-year-old to shoot the ball.
So, Exum worked. And worked some more, until he was confident in his shot even if the buckets weren’t always falling.
“The guy goes into the gym two hours before practice with our shooting coaches getting extra reps up every single day,” Tim Hardaway Jr. said post-game.
“That is just credit to his work. He has calmed down, he is knocking down his shot and shooting with confidence. That is what we need.”
Luka Doncic reacts after a basket by Dante Exum. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Josh Giddey has seen similar treatment from opposition defences and the way Exum rebounded on Wednesday is proof that sometimes patience is all that is needed.
“I think it started in L.A and then a lot of teams started to put their five on me,” Exum said.
“So, ever since then I have been in the gym working. Credit to the staff and even our players. Constantly trusting me to shoot the ball and to pass it to me.
“It was trust in myself and confidence to keep shooting it. I think how Luka plays and he can find anyone at any point. Knowing guys are going to help off to double him, and I have to be ready. I try to put myself in the situation where I can be on the floor.
“I don’t want to be the guy that is taken out because I can’t hit that shot.”
JOSH GIDDEY (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Giddey already has plenty going on off the court, with the NBA still investigating the Australian over allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor.
On the court though there are issues for the 21-year-old too, who has seen his minutes reduced this season and has been particularly absent in crunch time for the Thunder.
A loss of playing time was always on the cards for Giddey, not so much because of his own poor play, but because of the depth of young talent Oklahoma City is starting to put together.
Both Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams have quickly emerged as key parts of the Thunder offence while even rookie Cason Wallace continues to push for a larger role.
Giddey, on the other hand, has regressed from his sophomore season as he struggles to consistently find his rhythm on offence without a consistent jumper.
That, in turn, has seen opposition defences start to not just put their centre on him but give Giddey plenty of space to operate with too, daring him to shoot the ball.
“I was talking to him about it this morning and he’s like, ‘It’s the first time I’ve gotten played like that,’ which I think is an important point,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said last week.
“He’s been here for two years and I look at it as a compliment to our offence that we’re seeing that now.”
Josh Giddey is facing a fresh challenge. (Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
While there have been some suggestions Giddey could move back to the bench to help run the second unit, coach Daigneault does not sound too concerned just yet.
That doesn’t mean he is naive to the issue though. In fact, as Daigneault later pointed out, OKC has experimented more with Giddey playing alongside the second unit even if he does start the game.
It is all part of the Thunder trying to find out what pieces fit where in a young team that still has its best basketball ahead.
The only issue is that OKC is playing well enough right now that there is some level of urgency. But again, Daigneault is not losing sight of the bigger picture.
“We need to develop the solutions, but I look at the fact that three out of our last four opponents have gone to something that’s totally unconventional for them as a compliment to our offence, our base offence and just a challenge for us now that we have to evolve,” he said.
“I don’t want the emotion of the moment to get in the way of the perspective that this is a process we’re going through right now. It’s the first time that we’ve had a good enough offence probably, collectively, that we’re seeing the kitchen sink. And now that we’re seeing the kitchen sink, we have to calibrate, we have to improve.”
Daigneault also went on to add that given this is all new for Giddey, it is important the Thunder gives him time to first “see” what is being thrown at him and then try “calibrate it”.
As for any immediate adjustments, Daigneault had one request for Giddey.
“The only thing I said to him today which is important is that he plays on the catch,” he said.
“I think the quicker you play against that stuff the harder it is for teams to calibrate. But if you’re fast on the catch, if you either shoot it or move it quickly, teams can’t size it up in the middle of the possession.
“There were a couple last night where he seemed indecisive and the biggest thing [is] we’re fine with him shooting open 3s, those are good shots. If he shoots it, shoot it. If not, move it quickly so we can maintain that advantage.”
BEN SIMMONS (Brooklyn Nets)
There are not any significant updates to report on the injury front as Simmons recovers from a nerve impingement in his back.
Although Simmons, who has not played since early November, has entered the next phase of his rehabilitation and is looking at a return in a “matter of days to weeks, as opposed to weeks to months” according to his agent Bernie Lee.
“He’s been doing well, slowly taking steps. He’s starting to move around a little bit now. He’s starting to be able to run on some underwater treadmill stuff. So he’s starting to get around and move,” Lee added in an interview with The New York Post.
In the meantime though, former Sixers teammate Joel Embiid had some interesting comments about Simmons when speaking about the Australian on Tyrese Maxey’s podcast.
Embiid’s relationship with Simmons was the source of much media speculation during this time at Philadelphia.
Of particular emphasis was Embiid’s comments after a 4-1 playoffs series loss to the Hawks, where he described the moment Simmons passed up an open dunk as a “turning point” in the game.
Joel Embiid in September 2021 denied reports of a rift with teammate Ben Simmons amid reports that the Australian star was seeking to leave the franchise. (Photo by Christian Petersen / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP)Source: AFP
Embiid also said in the wake of Simmons’ trade to Brooklyn that it was “unfortunate” that winning was “not the biggest factor” for the three-time All-Star.
“It’s unfortunate that for him having his own team and, I guess, being a star was more his priorities,” Embiid added at the time. Now though, speaking on Maxey’s podcast, Embiid leapt to Simmons’ defence, declaring he “never” thought the Australian actually needed to be much of an outside shooting threat to succeed.
In fact, Embiid went as far as to say Simmons was “the one that got away”.
“I’ve always been one of those people that didn’t believe that he didn’t actually need a jumper,” Embiid said.
“He was so good, he’s just a monster, physically. Like someone who’s freaking [6-foot-11], just running up and down the floor faster than whatever, almost as fast as [Maxey].
“Think about it, 6-11, freaking jumping hard, guarding one-through-five, like a freaking monster.
“So I never believed that he actually needed the jumper, I just believed that if he could find a way to get his free throw [percentage] to 75, 80 percent, that would have changed everything.
“Because if you think about it, if you believe that he could make shots, what would he do? He would keep attacking, attacking, attacking, and never stopping. And then what would the defence have to do? He was already such a great playmaker, making the guy, the game, easy for everybody else.
“I think that’s the perfect match … I think that’s the one that got away. I just hate the fact that the way things happened.”
Shades of the King – Bronny makes debut | 01:15
PATTY MILLS (Atlanta Hawks)
The ultimate professional or, as Hawks coach Quin Snyder put it, “the epitome of stay ready”.
And Mills has had to stay ready, only seeing 22 minutes of action so far for Atlanta.
Five of those minutes came in garbage time as the Hawks breezed past the Wizards.
Against the 76ers last week though Mills saw a more prominent role, playing 17 minutes as he scored three points to go with two assists, one rebound, a block and a steal.
“I think that’s who he’s been as far as the way that he plays,” Snyder said post-game.
“He puts a stamp on the game with his defence, with his activity, his energy, his voice. He’s the epitome of stay ready. He hasn’t been playing and then obviously gets an opportunity tonight.
“I thought that group changed the game when they came in the first quarter at the end there and really gave us a boost… it’s not easy to play against Patrick Beverly pressuring you 90 feet. But that’s what Patty’s done. I just have tremendous respect for him as a player and it is also reflective of who he is as a person and as a teammate.”
As for why Mills isn’t seeing more minutes, it is a simple case of the Hawks having plenty of youth depth at the guard position.
In other words, Mills isn’t needed at the moment. But if injuries strike or his name is called, you can guarantee the 35-year-old will be ready.
JOSH GREEN (Dallas Mavericks)
While Exum is thriving with more playing time at Dallas, Irving’s injury is a missed opportunity for Green, who is dealing with his own injury setback.
Green played some of his best games for the Mavericks last season when either Irving or Doncic was sidelined, scoring 20 or more points in three consecutive weeks for the first time in his career.
Green is currently sidelined with a sprain in his right elbow and is expected to miss multiple weeks according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
DYSON DANIELS (New Orleans Pelicans)
Daniels took full advantage of a string of injuries to Pelicans starters earlier in the season, earning a prominent role and playing some of the best basketball of his young career.
It was always inevitable though that the returns of C.J. McCollum and Trey Murphy III would see Daniels’ minutes take a hit.
Daniels only saw six minutes in a 127-117 win over Sacramento but that proved to be an outlier for the young guard, who has clearly earned some level of trust from the coaching staff.
Daniels went on to get 17 and 28 minutes in games against the Lakers and Timberwolves before being inserted back into the starting line-up after Zion Williamson went down injured.
Williamson (ankle) is considered day-to-day so Daniels could see a few more starting appearances before the end of the month.
Daniels only played 16 minutes against the Wizards, although it ended up being a blowout victory for the Pelicans anyway as they ran out 142-122 winners.
Embiid passes Barkley in stellar fashion | 01:23
JOCK LANDALE (Houston Rockets)
Landale has seen limited playing time for Houston, not figuring in the Rockets’ big-man rotation in five of their past five games, missing two with an illness.
The former Suns centre did eventually get some minutes against the Grizzlies, seeing at least 10 minutes of action for just the second game in his last nine appearances.
As a whole though Landale is unlikely to see any significant playing time without an injury to starting big man Alperen Sengun
Landale is on a four-year, $32 million contract but has no guaranteed money after this season, giving Houston flexibility to move off him should the Australian fail to make an impact.
JOE INGLES (Orlando Magic)
At 36 years old, Ingles continues to prove age is just a number. The same goes for this young Orlando squad, which as a whole is playing with a maturity and poise beyond its years.
Usually a team like the Magic would struggle with consistency, flashing their enormous ceiling and then following up those high games with agonising lows that proved just how far they have to go.
Instead, this Magic team has quickly figured out its identity and sits second in the Eastern Conference with a 16-7 record alongside Ingles’ former team Milwaukee.
Ingles is playing a slightly different role with Orlando but it is the same idea in the sense that he has worked hard to find the balance between initiating and facilitating the offence.
It is one of many points Ingles touched on in a recent interview with CBS Sports, where he spoke about his comeback from a torn ACL and what he has learned playing with the Magic.
Joe Ingles has been a key addition. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“The good thing is we do have a young group, and it’s different to what I’ve been around, but it’s a nice change, too,” Ingles said.
“It’s fun. I’m the oldest by a mile, but it feels like the energy is there every day.”
Ingles signed a two-year, $22 million contract (second year not guaranteed) with Orlando and said his recent deal is a good reminder of the important function role players have in even the best, star-studded NBA teams.
“That first team I was with, with Gordon [Hayward] and Rudy [Gobert] and Derrick Favors, for me it was about perfecting that role of helping those guys,” Ingles said.
“And then you go to another team, and with Milwaukee last year it was like play with Giannis, play with these guys and try to help them. And I think the more players can realise, like, you can make so much money being a good role player.”
Ingles is coming off a standout game against the Cavaliers where he had 12 points, four rebounds, three assists and one block.
Ingles did briefly exit the game with an ankle injury but later returned.
MATISSE THYBULLE (Portland Trail Blazers)
Thybulle already was of plenty of value to this young Portland line-up as the team’s best perimeter defender but now he has really starting to make progress with his jumper.
The 26-year-old has at least two 3-pointers in his last five games and just as importantly has been an efficient outside shooter too, going 3-for-5 from deep in his last three.
Thybulle is now shooting at a career-high 42.4 per cent from 3-point land and still maintaining the same level of impact on defence, with nine steals and four blocks in his last five games.
He is a solid piece with room for plenty more growth with the way he is shooting right now.
DUOP REATH (Portland Trail Blazers)
Like Thybulle, Reath is also really starting to prove himself after a season-ending injury to Robert Williams III left Portland in need of big-man depth.
Reath has offered that and more, shooting well enough from downtown to earn the respect of opposition defences.
When he isn’t shooting himself Reath is also making an impact off the ball as an active screener, opening up shots for his teammates.
Reath is currently averaging 7.7 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game this season while he has seen a steady increase in minutes during his last three games.
As we reach the quarter-way mark of the NBA season, it’s the perfect time to hit the pause button and reflect on how all 30 teams have fared.
It’s been a campaign filled with epic match-ups, big breakouts, incredible superstar performances, drama and entertainment including the league’s inaugural In-Season Tournament, while a host of shock contenders have emerged and others have endured a tumultuous start.
Taking into account the expectations for every team, their front office decision-making and generally what each franchise is hoping to achieve this season, here’s how we’ve graded the entire league through the first quarter.
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Grades for all 30 teams at the quarter-way mark of the season.Source: FOX SPORTS
ATLANTA HAWKS (9-13) — C-
Contending for a Play-In spot and hovering around .500, the Hawks are pretty well on pace to what most expected, if not slightly underwhelming. One thing’s clear — Quin Snyder’s team is just a middle of the road team and not a contender to come out of the East as constructed. Atlanta will at least score a ton, however is ranked among the worst teams defensively. And what’s the splash move they can make without breaking up Trae Young and Dejounte Murray? Jalen Johnson was enjoying a breakout season prior to getting struck down with injury in an untimely setback for both the third-year forward and Hawks at large.
BOSTON CELTICS (16-5) — A+
The clear frontrunner in the title race. It’s been a hot start to the season for a Celtics powerhouse that has gotten even stronger after the additions of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis — even if their true worth will be determined at the business end of the season – to boast the clear best starting five in the NBA. The early signs couldn’t be much better, with Porzingis in particular helping take Joe Mazulla’s team to another level at both ends of the floor as a rim protecting shot blocker and floor stretching five. Boston has the best record in the league, No. 4 defensive rating and No. 7 offensive rating. Full marks.
BROOKLYN NETS (12-10) – C+
Despite arguably battling the worst injury toll of any side in the league, the Nets sit just a game behind the sixth-seeded Cavaliers, and when healthy, have shown they can be a real handful. It’s largely been built around Brooklyn’s high-octane offence – ranked eighth in the league – as Cam Thomas has shined in a bigger role and Mikal Bridges has flourished as the true leader of the team. Ben Simmons’ ongoing back issue is however getting alarming. The Aussie could help the Nets improve offensively to give them a more well-rounded game. But when, or if, Simmons returns remains very much up in the air.
“He’s FAT”: Stephen A. SLAMS Zion | 02:30
CHARLOTTE HORNETS (7-14) – D+
Yes, the Hornets sit third-last in the East, but there’s a few things to factor in, largely their injury situation. Charlotte was without Miles Bridges for the first 10 games due to his suspension, while Terry Rozier also missed a key stretch. Since the aforementioned duo returned, LaMelo Ball suffered a nasty ankle injury, so we haven’t gotten a proper look at this Hornets team as constructed at full strength — a core that had the potential to contend for a Play-In spot. In saying all this, the Hornets have been a mess on the defensive end and have the fifth-worst net rating in the league, so they have a ways to improve, and injuries can’t be solely to blame for a team with the longest active playoff drought in the league dating back to 2016.
CHICAGO BULLS (9-15) – D
Are the Bulls … better without Zach LaVine? After a really grim start to the season, Chicago has curiously improved to 4-1 since LaVine was struck down with injury … time for a trade? You’d think Chicago has to pull the trigger on a move for either (or a collection of) LaVine, DeMar DeRozan or Nikola Vucevic at some stage to bring in long-term assets and continue to expose the likes of Coby White and Patrick Williams to bigger roles, as they have in recent times. Because what they have right now is the profile of a near enough lottery team despite being built to win now, so it desperately needs a reboot as the franchise arguably in the worst position of any. A big few months ahead for the front office.
CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (13-10) – C+
The Cavaliers have been simply solid this season. But for whatever reason, something has been off, while they haven’t had the same spark as last campaign and continue to struggle offensively. As good as Donovan Mitchell has been, just about every other Cleveland player bar Max Strus has struggled to take a step forward … plus is the Jarrett Allen/Evan Mobley froncourt viable long term? A team that was considered to be on the rise with a ton of potential has underwhelmed, even if its 13-10 record is far from disappointing. It comes in a particular crucial period with the franchise hoping to convince Mitchell to re-sign.
Aussie Exum POPS OFF for 7 x threes | 01:40
DALLAS MAVERICKS (14-8) – B
Another team that has probably surpassed expectations, sitting fourth in the West as an offensive powerhouse, even if the Mavs have struggled defensively. Luka Doncic has done Luka Doncic things, but beyond the Slovenian superstar and Kyrie Irving, the Mavs lack consistent production from the rest of their squad and have really struggled on the defensive end — even with exciting rookie Derek Lively providing a real presence as a centre. And how much do we trust Irving to stay healthy and/or to not act up? It’s been an overall positive season, but until they fix their defensive issues, Jason Kidd’s side can’t be considered a true contender to come out of the West.
DENVER NUGGETS (15-9) – A-
The defending champs are in cruise control, though Nikoka Jokic has somehow gotten better to really cement himself as the consensus best player in the league/world. With Jokic running the show in the Mile High City, it’ll always be a dominant force, but they’ve at times been too reliant on him, particularly when Jamal Murray was sidelined despite Reggie Jackson stepping up in a starting role. Of course, prioritising health and peaking come May and June is the prime concern for Mike Malone’s squad as opposed to regular season wins and finishing as high as possible, with things ticking along just fine despite a recent three-game skid and some question marks about their bench and depth as a whole following the departures of Bruce Brown and Jeff Green.
Shades of the King – Bronny makes debut | 01:15
DETROIT PISTONS (2-21) – F
A season from hell. Things can’t get much worse than what they are right now for the Pistons … can they? They’ve dropped a franchise record 20 games on the trot and have a league-worst 2-21 record. Monty Williams is constantly changing the line-up in hopes of finding a spark – but that in itself has been a problem as nothing has felt settled or stable. The sporadicness of Jaden Ivey – both the guard’s form and how he’s being used by Williams – has personified the team’s struggles. And while Bojan Bogdanovic recently returned to give them some veteran leadership, it’ll take more than that to turn things around.
GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (10-12) – D+
Is the dynasty Warriors era finally over? It certainly appears to be amid a rough stretch with just four wins from their last 14 outings. Steph Curry is doing everything he possibly can right now, but where’s the help? And what would happen if he got injured? Veterans Klay Thompson and Draymond Green have underperformed and Chris Paul already suffered his first injury setback, while Andrew Wiggins looks a shadow of the star that helped guide the team to the 2022 championship. Meanwhile Jonathan Kuminga has struggled to evolve into the player the team would’ve hoped for, and their other youngsters don’t appear capable to take on bigger roles – or at least Steve Kerr hasn’t been willing to give it to them – so there’s more issues than answers right now. A shake-up could be coming, either to the rotation or via trade.
HOUSTON ROCKETS (11-9) – B+
There’s been some hiccups along the way, but it’s been an overall promising season for the West’s seven seed. Ime Udoka has brought an intensity, defensive focus (ranked second in the NBA) and professionalism to the team we haven’t seen in years — boosted by the additions of Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks as well as Alperen Sengun taking his game to another level. Some cracks started to appear over the last month or so and it felt like things could fall apart, but the Rockets have since steadied the ship in signs of genuine maturation. Houston does need to replicate its home form on the road, with just one away win so far (over reigning champ Denver), but there’s so much to like overall at the moment.
Davis dominates in mid season title win | 02:31
INDIANA PACERS (13-8) – A
That In-Season tournament run felt massive including taking down Eastern Conference powerhouses Boston and Milwaukee en route to the championship game. Even if they didn’t raise the trophy, the Pacers would’ve gained a ton of confidence and respect. Plus, not only did it give Indiana playoff-like atmosphere experience against some of the best teams in the league, it was the coming out of a superstar in Tyrese Haliburton under the bright lights. Can we finally admit the Pacers won the Sabonis trade? There’s simply a ton of excitement surrounding Indiana right now as one of the most fun teams to watch and best stories of the first quarter of the season that current sits fifth in the East. It’s largely been because of the Pacers’ potent No. 1 rated offence, though they’ve leaked points on the other end.
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (12-1o) – B-
Should the league be officially on notice? The Clippers are two games above .500 after winning nine of their last 12. The slow start in the James Harden era is a thing of the past as Tyrone Lu’s side is figuring things out and looking a genuine threat with a new starting line-up after Russell Westbrook’s move to the bench. We’re also seeing all of their big three, Harden, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, playing well in the same games more consistently, while the Clippers have the NBA’s No. 8 defensive rating and No. 8 net rating. It comes in a crucial season for the franchise, having gone all-in with this roster ahead of the opening of its new stadium next year. You still can’t help but think, as quickly as things have come together, they could again fall apart, with the health of their injury-prone stars key.
LOS ANGELES LAKERS (14-9) – A-
They have to get extra marks for winning the In-Season Tournament, even if it ultimately counts for nothing from a bigger picture perspective. It’s otherwise been a similar-looking Lakers to last season — a robust defence but lacklustre offence and need for more consistent scoring alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, with Austin Reaves struggling to step up in a bigger role and having more success as a sixth man. Through it all, LA is still 14-9 and getting close to full strength, with the likes of Jared Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent missing key time, while Cam Reddish has been a solid addition. The evergreen and soon-to-be 39-year old James is ageing like a fine wine and doing straight up freakish things at his age. Between James and Davis, who’s having one of his best defensive seasons, this team will always be a threat, plus you sense this Lakers team has room to grow with more continuity and could go on a run at some stage like last season.
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (6-16) – D-
Operation keep their head above water until Ja Morant returns next week has been a fail for the Grizzlies, who’s also been without Marcus Smart and lost Steven Adams on the eve of the season to leave a bunch of key voids. Tyus Jones’ departure also can’t be understated as a guy who knew their system so well and how to run it whenever Morant was out. With that in mind, you can’t be too harsh on Taylor Jenkins’ crew. Morant will clearly provide a much-needed boost on the offensive end, but they also can’t expect him to return and magically solve all their problems. Not many lesser Memphis players have otherwise really stepped up with extra responsibilities, while Jackson Jr. hasn’t looked like the same defender without Adams there. The Griz have at least showed better signs in recent times to creep closer to having a somewhat respectful record and look capable of turning around its season with Morant and Smart back in the fold.
MIAMI HEAT (13-10) – B
You can be glass half full or half empty on the Heat depending on what your expectations are. But never sleep on Erik Spoelstra and company — and this season has proven no different despite Miami being without Tyler Herro for a key chunk of the season (though it’s becoming increasingly hard to trust the team to ever be consistently healthy). Miami just finds useful pieces to surround Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo with including draftee Jaime Jaquez Jr., while Duncan Robinson has enjoyed a bounce back season and the returning Josh Richardson has been a useful addition. There’s still a few question marks, with the Heat rated average on both ends of the floor amid a stretch of five losses from their last eight, but they’re in a good spot when Herro and now Adebayo return from injury all things considered.
Silver breaks silence on Giddey drama | 00:43
MILWAUKEE BUCKS (16-7) – A-
It’s all kind of just going according to script for any team that lands a superstar in the off-season. Sure, the Bucks still have to improve significantly to just become an OK defensive team as they adjust to life with Damian Lillard. But through what’s felt like a slow start to the season under new coach Adrian Griffin, Milwaukee sits equal second in Eastern Conference and just a game behind Boston with the equal-third best record in the entire league. Not only are the Bucks figuring out how to best integrate Lillard with the rest of the team — most importantly, alongside star teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo — as well as other new pieces, but Khris Middleton is still (very slowly) being ramped up to full minutes. Reports of locker room drama involving Bobby Portis and Griffin is also a worry so early in the campaign. In some ways, all the apparent concerns make their .696 winning percentage even more impressive, but it’s very much is championship or bust season in Milwaukee, so expectations are rightfully high.
MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (17-5) – A+
Ticks all around for the team with the fourth-best net rating in the league. Seemingly the most improved team in the NBA this season, or at least, the team that’s made the jump from a playoff side to a true contender. Indeed, what the Timberwolves are doing feels real, built around the league’s No. 1 ranked defence led by Rudy Gobert getting back to some of his best form at that end of the floor. Minnesota has elite size otherwise that’s really worried opposition teams, while Karl-Anthony Towns is playing at a high level to function effectively alongside Gobert in the frontcourt, while Anthony Edwards just keeps getting better and better. And all of this despite Jaden McDaniels only appearing in roughly half their games due to injury.
NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (13-11) – B-
Are they good or not? The opinion on this team seems to flip-flop quicker than any either — and the Pelicans are an enigma of sorts. But when they’ve been at full strength, there’s an argument the Pelicans can compete with anyone in the Western Conference. The Pels have in recent times shown what they can do with all their pieces on the court together including winning seven of their last 11 games. Willie Green’s side has weapons at both ends of the floor and is deep, while Zion Williamson has looked fantastic at times despite some queries around his overall professionalism and commitment to his craft. Though a blowout loss at the hands of the red-hot Lakers in the In-Season Tournament semis was a misstep, there’s reason to be bullish about how far New Orleans could go this season if things click.
NEW YORK KNICKS (13-9) – B
It’s been a solid, but unspectacular start to the season for the Knicks, who have struggled against the best teams but are rated top 10 in all three of offensive, defensive and net rating. Despite this, New York still appears to be a move away from being a true contender that’s capable of hanging with the likes of Boston, Milwaukee and Philadelphia out East. Mitch Robinson being ruled out for at least the next two months after ankle surgery is clearly a big blow, while the wing/guard rotation feels crowded after New York brought in Donte DiVincenzo. Quintin Grimes even expressed frustration over his role given so much of the team’s offence is predicated around Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle and RJ Barrett. How far can a team go that leans so heavily on those three on the offensive end?
Curry tops Wemby in battle of the stars | 01:11
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (15-7) – A+
The rebuild couldn’t be going much better. In fact, could the Thunder be sneaky contenders in the West? They’ve exceeded expectations this season to surge ahead of their time as the third-youngest team in the NBA. OKC is the only team in the NBA with a top six offensive and defensive rating, while it’s third in net rating. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a legit MVP contender, Chet Holmgren has been Rookie of the Year good to provide another dimension to Mark Daigneault’s squad and Jalen Williams has taken a leap forward in his second season. Plus, whoever Daigneault puts on the court, which can at times be fluid, always competes hard and buys in on the defensive end. All of this with a mountain of draft picks at their disposal to further upgrade their roster, there’s perhaps no team better positioned overall. The only real negative has been Josh Giddey’s underwhelming form on the court — not helped by the off-court investigation — as the Aussie struggles to find his role in an altered system.
ORLANDO MAGIC (16-7) – A+
The unexpected dark horse in the Eastern Conference behind it’s No. 2 rated defence and budding young guns. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are blossoming into stars, leading a team with killer instinct that’s taken several big scalps including the Nuggets and Celtics – arguably the best two teams in the NBA. It’s been all the more impressive considering Marklette Fultz has been limited to only five games due to an ongoing knee injury, though the guard’s absence has at least opened up more opportunities for the likes of Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony to really take their games to the next level. Meanwhile Joe Ingles has added an invaluable veteran presence off the bench.
Embiid passes Barkley in stellar fashion | 01:23
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (15-7) – A
You’ve got to respect the way the Sixers consistently remain in the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference, particularly after overcoming the James Harden drama that was. With Joel Embiid leading the charge in another MVP-calibre season and Tyrese Maxey emerging as a superstar, anything feels possible with these Nick Nurse-led Sixers. A faster-paced offence (ranked second in the NBA) and still rock solid defence (ranked ninth) under Nurse’s system has so far equated to the best net rating in the league. Veterans Nicholas Batum and Robert Covington have meanwhile been valuable additions on the wing from the Harden trade and provided better depth — plus Philly has a bounty of draft picks it can use to further bolster its roster. Should again be one of the key contenders to come out of the East, if not go a step further.
PHOENIX SUNS (12-10) – B-
It’s hard to get a proper read on Frank Vogel’s Suns given their new big three is still yet to share the court together this season. That was set to change this week with Bradley Beal’s imminent return, but now Kevin Durant is out, so the trio staying healthy will always be a concern. But Beal’s absence doesn’t completely let Phoenix off for a near .500 start given the franchise has gone all-in on a title with this roster, particularly given the defensive concerns have so far been validated. While it hasn’t been all smooth sailing, the Suns have still managed to stay in touch with the top teams in the Western Conference and shown they can compete with anyone. Though Durant has wound back the clock, this team will go as far as Devin Booker takes it in a new point guard role, while their role players have stepped up to fill voids.
Celtics reign top of the East | 00:59
PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS (6-16) – D+
To no great surprise, it’s been tough goings for the new-look Blazers this season as they move into rebuild mode after trading away Damian Lillard – but still have a blend of veterans in key roles. That slow start has been exasperated by Anferne Simons being sidelined for most of the season to date due to injury, while a host of other key names have also missed time. Portland has actually been solid on the defensive end, however is ranked second-last offensively in an area Simons will improve it. It feels like it’s only a matter of time before Scoot Henderson is handed the keys as the starting point guard role, with the Pick 3 draftee, Simons and Shaedon Sharpe the future of this franchise.
SACRAMENTO KINGS (13-8) – B+
After a slow start to the season, the still heavily offensive-focused Kings have gotten a roll in recent times with five wins from their last seven to make a charge in the Western Conference standings. De’Aaron Fox just keeps getting better and better, in the best form of his career and playing at an MVP level with a much-improved three-point stroke, while Malik Monk might be the most underrated player in the NBA as a sneaky Sixth Man of the Year candidate. The issues on the defensive end remain a problem though and have halted Sacramento from making the jump from being a fun – but potent – team last season to a legit West contender to be taken more seriously.
SAN ANTONIO SPURS (3-19) – D-
Expectations recalibrated. A team some thought was capable of making a run for the Play-In with the addition of Victor Wembanyama has been a mile off and is in contention for having the worst record in the league. They’ve dropped a franchise record 17 straight games and … well, look like a young team still figuring things out and their identity as a whole. The Spurs have been a mess at both ends of the floor – rankled dead last offensively and sixth-last defensively for the league’s worst overall net rating. The Jeremy Sochan point guard experiment has been abandoned, and right now, outside of Wembanyama, there’s not a heap to be bullish about on the roster for the future (though Wembanyama might be more than enough). But again, this is a team that was always going to suffer from some type of growing pains and can at least say they planned for such pain by committing to a rebuild — even if they weren’t expected to be this bad. Hard to give a team a fail that just landed a generational talent, who’s looked as a good as advertised.
‘Not who we are!’ Pop BURNS home crowd | 00:30
TORONTO RAPTORS (9-14) – C-
A contender for most confusing team in the NBA in terms of what it’s trying to accomplish, currently sitting outside the Play-In qualification. The Raptors have dropped four in a row amid struggles at both ends of the floor under new coach Darko Rajaković. If they can’t get things together soon, a trade involving Pascal Siakam and/or OG Anunoby by the deadline seems likely given both can become free agents at the end of the season. It very much feels like Scottie Barnes’ team now in a brilliant third season from the forward as the franchise cornerstone they should build around, while every other Raptor feels expandable.
UTAH JAZZ (7-16) – D
How long until the Jazz commit to all-out rebuild mode? Despite having a surplus of draft picks from the Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell trades, Utah has attempted to regenerate its roster on the run and stay competitive in the always loaded West — evident by its off-season move for John Collins. However the team has really struggled this season compared to last. While the absence of Lauri Markannen in recent times hasn’t helped and Walker Kessler has also missed a key chunk of the season, the Jazz have dropped five of their last six games and are plummeting quickly in the West standings in campaign getting away from it. Given Utah owes OKC a top-10 protected pick, don’t be surprised if Will Hardy shakes things up soon and puts his younger players into bigger roles, while the Jazz could also be sellers ahead of the trade deadline to ensure the franchise takes something away from this season.
WASHINGTON WIZARDS (3-19) – F
It’s been bad. The Wizards have just one win from their last 15 games to remain anchored in a bottom two seed with Detroit in the East. While it’s been by design after Washington off-loaded Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis in the off-season for long-term assets, there hasn’t been much get excited about by the way of young players impressing. And so there’s not many positive takeaways for this season outside of the Wizards potentially ending up with a top draft pick. This year’s Pick 7 Bilal Coulibaly figures to move into a bigger role as the season goes on, while Washington’s other high-end draftees look like misses that haven’t warranted increased opportunities. Jordan Poole has been a big disappointment, while the ex-Warrior and/or Tyus Jones could find themselves in another jersey by the deadline.
Earlier last month after the Pelicans slumped to their fifth-straight loss, Zion Williamson made a worrying admission that may have had alarm bells ringing in the New Orleans front office.
“It’s tough right now but I’m taking a little back seat right now and I’m trusting the process,” he said, speaking after a 136-124 defeat to the Dallas Mavericks.
“I’m trying my best to buy in right now.”
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Davis dominates in mid season title win | 02:31
Williamson may not have realised it at the time but as the face of the franchise, it was hardly a ringing endorsement New Orleans would have been hoping for in the midst of a testing period for the team.
So, an hour-long team meeting was called the next day.
The result? A statement 131-110 victory over Dallas that sparked a sudden resurgence for the Pelicans, who went on to win five of their next six games.
More important than anything else was the fact Williamson was starting to look like himself again, getting to the rim more often and finishing at a higher rate.
Williamson played in all five of those wins, averaging 25.6 points, 5.0 rebounds and 5.4 assists while shooting 60.3 per cent from the field.
Things were on the way up. The team’s two biggest outside shooting threats — Trey Murphy III and CJ McCollum — would soon be returning.
It was also easy to forget that Williamson himself had been sidelined from early January to the end of last season with a hamstring injury and was in the process of getting back into a rhythm of his own.
Both he and the team as a whole looked to finally be finding that rhythm.
But now two underwhelming performances from Williamson in the NBA’s in-season tournament have turned the spotlight back on one of the league’s most talented and yet frustrating players.
Zion Williamson is under the spotlight again. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Frustrating because it is a conversation that has been had several times before over the past few seasons.
That for all his talent with a unique frame and limitless potential, there is in fact a limit on that potential if Williamson does not improve his conditioning and attitude.
Stephen A. Smith made his point by comparing Williamson’s performance in the blowout loss to the Lakers to that of a 39-year-old LeBron James, who was making all the right plays and hustling on both ends of the floor in what is his 21st season.
“Zion Williamson went to the free throw line the other day,” Smith said.
“While LeBron James had dropped 30 in three quarters and completely dominated and looked in peak physical condition, looked like a stud and a superstar.
“Zion Williamson, who is more than 15 years younger but 40 pounds heavier, went to the free throw line… ladies and gentlemen, I saw a belly.”
Williamson is saying all the right things, declaring after the loss to the Lakers that he needs to be “more aggressive” and that he expects “more” of himself.
But privately it seems like a different story, with multiple team sources telling Christian Clark of The Times-Picayune that he “doesn’t listen” to constant pleas to improve his diet and conditioning.
It comes after Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin confidently told reporters this pre-season that “this was the first summer where we’ve seen Zion take his profession seriously like that and invest in it off the court on his own in a way that I think is meaningful”.
That actually appeared to be pretty accurate based on what Williamson looked like before the season tipped off.
Now though, Williamson looks to be reverting back to old habits and in the process has struggled to maintain his effectiveness on both ends of the floor.
Whether that is physical, mental or a combination of both is something only Williamson knows.
For former teammate J.J. Redick, it is about a lack of motivation or, as he puts it, Williamson not “buying into his own career”.
“I was disappointed, and overall I’ve been disappointed in Zion this season,” Redick said on ESPN’s ‘NBA Today’.
“Look, we can certainly point to counting stats and say he’s having a fine season. But you can be in the building, you can watch on TV, you can be courtside and you can see he’s not in shape.
“He’s still not in shape despite everything that he’s gone through. Despite numerous conversations with legends of the game about being in shape. He gets called out on national television once or twice a year for this very thing.”
Redick is right too. Only last week both Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley voiced their concerns for Williamson, drawing on their own personal experiences in the process.
Will Zion Williamson fulfil his potential? Chris Graythen/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
“I had the same problem my first and second year. I thought I was running hard. Charles [Barkley] has talked about this,” O’Neal said on TNT.
“Because my talent’s going to get me 20 [points]. When I started getting to 30-40, it’s because I started doing certain things.
“He doesn’t create easy points for himself. He doesn’t see [open teammates]. He doesn’t demand the ball … Charles always talks about how you can’t have a little guy guard you. He doesn’t have that ‘look’. Like, ‘I’m the greatest ever.’ I know a look when I see it.
“… Once he decides to be that killer and go for it, he’s going to be a dangerous person.”
Barkley, meanwhile, took the conversation one step further, given there is a fair argument that as currently constructed the Pelicans as a team can only go as far as Williamson takes them.
“Zion is the wildcard,” Barkley said.
“They got depth, they got two All-Stars named Ingram and McCollum. I’ve said before, this team is scary on paper but it’s all going to come down to Zion. He’s got to get himself in better shape because McCollum and Ingram, man they’re a handful.”
Barkley echoed O’Neal’s sentiments, suggesting Williamson “plays the game strictly on talent”.
At the moment though, that talent is not being used to its full potential, especially when it comes to effort areas on both ends of the floor.
You only have to watch a few of the below examples from ‘X’ account Pro Pels Talk, including one where Williamson watches on as Jonas Valanciunas is double teamed.
Shades of the King – Bronny makes debut | 01:15
“He never runs on a fastbreak,” Barkley added.
“He’s kind of like jogging on offence and defence. Somebody has got to get a hold of him because he’s got so much talent… he could be special.”
And that is what the conversation about Williamson will continually come back to. The fact he was a first overall pick. The fact this is now his fourth season in the NBA. The fact the Pelicans gave him a five-year extension worth up to $231 million.
That, along with Williamson’s long history of struggling with his weight and conditioning, has Bill Simmons concerned the Pelicans may not even get fair value if they tried to move on from him.
“I think they may have missed their window now,” Simmons said on his podcast.
“I don’t know what you’d get for him because it’s a super expensive guy who is not in shape. I’ve seen a lot of NBA seasons, this never ends well.”
New Orleans bought into Williamson’s career. Now it is time for him to do the same, according to former teammate Redick.
“Earlier this season, he had a press conference where he was talking about trying to buy in what the team wanted, and the reality is Zion Williamson has not bought into his own career yet,” Redick said.
“And that is disappointing because as someone who is a fan of his, a former teammate, a fellow Duke guy, I know — we all know — how great he can be. We’ve seen those flashes of greatness.
“But to do that for an extended period of time, to reach his full potential…. he’s never going to get there if he doesn’t buy into his own career.”
Angel Reese, a top player for LSU women’s basketball, offered words of love and encouragement to Kateri Poole, who is no longer a member of the Tigers team.
“Forever my dawg! You know I love you & 10 behind you,” Reese posted in a story on Instagram.
Angel Reese’s strong message about relationship with LSU’s Kim MulkeyParker Johnson
It was directed at Poole, who wore the number 10 jersey, and also tagged her in a post.
Poole’s exit confirmed
Coach Kim Mulkey of LSU confirmed Poole’s departure from the team on Sunday night following their 83-53 win over Louisiana.
Mulkey also made it clear that there is no chance of Poole rejoining the roster, making her departure from the program a definitive one.
The junior guard hadn’t played for the squad in a few weeks and hadn’t been on the court since the game against Southeastern Louisiana on November 15.
That evening in Hammond, Poole played for five minutes and finished with one point and one assist.
Reese’s influence on Poole
Angel Reese says goodbye to Kateri PooleInstagram @angelreese10
Reese, who missed four games due to an unspecified injury of her own, was drawn to LSU in large part because of Poole.
She was the first to inquire about the outstanding center’s interest in joining Mulkey’s team by calling the former transfer from Maryland.
Reese visited the campus in Baton Rouge and made up her mind to go to LSU right away.
During LSU’s march to the national championship a year ago, Poole played a big role as she started the last five NCAA Tournament games and offered strong defense.
Bronny James made his college debut for Southern California on Sunday, coming off the bench nearly five months after he suffered cardiac arrest and making a huge block.
James played six minutes in the first half, when the Trojans led 45-30 at the break. In his second three-minute stint, James made a huge block on Jadon Jones, who was streaking to the basket on a fastbreak. The Galen Center crowd cheered loudly, with James’ dad, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, watching courtside.
James assisted on a dunk by Vincent Iwuchukwu, who also suffered cardiac arrest as a freshman. He returned to play 14 games last season.
James was welcomed on the court by a standing ovation
James entered the game about seven minutes into the first half, with some in the crowd standing and cheering. He missed his first shot, a 3-point attempt. Moments before, he tipped the ball away from a Long Beach State player, but the visitors got it back. The possession ended in a shot-clock violation for the Beach. James also snagged a rebound.
LeBron James arrived seconds before the national anthem, holding hands with 9-year-old daughter, Zhuri, and tapped his son’s rear as he passed the Trojans who were lined up across the court for the anthem.
The NBA was well-represented in the game. One of James’ teammates is DJ Rodman, the son of Dennis Rodman. The Beach’s roster includes Chayce Polynice, the son of 15-year NBA veteran Olden Polynice.
James joined his teammates for on-court warmups 90 minutes before tipoff. Wearing a white USC shirt and red sweatpants, he took a variety of jumpers under the watchful lenses of a baseline full of photographers.
Students lined up around one side of Galen Center and down an adjacent street waiting to get inside. Although there were pockets of empty seats in the 10,258-seat arena, James’ debut helped the Trojans draw their largest crowd yet this season.
James suffered cardiac arrest on July 20 during a workout at Galen Center. He was found to have a congenital heart defect that was treatable.
James was recently cleared by his doctors and USC’s medical staff to participate in full-contact practice. Previously, he had been limited to working out on his own doing weights, cardio and shooting.
NBA media personality Stephen A. Smith has unleashed on injured Australian three-time All-Star Ben Simmons in a bizarre rant.
Simmons, who missed all of the 2021-22 campaign and was restricted to just 42 games with the Nets last season, has not played since early November after suffering a nerve impingement in his back.
The Australian’s agent Bernie Lee told The New York Post that he has entered the next phase of his rehabilitation and is looking at a return in a “matter of days to weeks, as opposed to weeks to months”.
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Hollywood star’s awkward Giddey response | 00:43
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s in-season tournament final on ESPN, Smith was asked how concerned he was that Simmons would not live up to his true potential after yet another stint on the sidelines.
Smith did not hold back in response, declaring he is “completely disgusted” with Simmons.
“I am completely disgusted with him. I am completely disgusted with Ben Simmons and I think we all should be,” he said.
“I don’t care at this point that he’s injured and the reason why is too much time went by when you were not injured when you were not playing. But you certainly made sure that you’re cheque was in your bank account every single month.
“We understand that mental health is a huge issue, it’s serious and not something to be diminished or maligned in any way. But you know something, you think about your money. Every time you turned around he thought about his money.”
The 76ers had initially withheld around $20 million of Simmons’ salary, arguing at the time that he breached part of his contract after holding out for the 2021-22 season, citing mental health.
Simmons and the National Basketball Players Association then filed a grievance and eventually settled with the Sixers, which saw him recoup part of the salary according to ESPN. The terms of the settlement, however, were not disclosed.
This July Simmons also received credit for a year of service for the 2021-22 season at Philadelphia.
Smith clarified he is a “fan” of Simmons but has grown frustrated with the constant interruptions that have disrupted his development since entering the NBA.
“I’m a fan of Ben Simmons. I like him genuinely as a person but I can’t measure my disappointment I have towards him,” he added.
“I watched this man blossom into a star and an All-Star calibre player in this league for years. As a youngster in this league at 6-foot-9, with his ball-handling and his passing and playmaking skills along with his defensive prowess.
“Even with the inability to shoot shots from the perimeter, he was still considered an elite player in this game and somehow some way he let the noise get to him in a way that prevented him from playing the game.”
Smith went on to question Simmons’ commitment, declaring he has shown an “unwillingness to have a passion to play the game of basketball”.
Davis dominates in mid season title win | 02:31
“Now that we’ve transitioned to this point, where he’s legitimately injured with his back… you’re not delegitimising the injury,” Smith said.
“You believe him and you understand not to sit up there and malign him as if you’re questioning the legitimacy of the injury. We’re not doing that. What we’re saying is we don’t care because if it was not that injury it’d be something else because over the last two to three years what you’ve shown us is an unwillingness to have a passion to play the game of basketball.
“I don’t think the United States should accept it, I don’t think Australia should accept it, I don’t think any place on the planet that loves the game of basketball should co-sign and condone Ben Simmons’ lack of commitment to the game of basketball. Enough is enough. It’s unacceptable.
“You’re too great, you’re too talented, you’re too gifted to be allowing your talents to be wasting away the way that it has. I’m not excusing it anymore. He’s lucky he’s injured because if he weren’t injured I’d be talking about him every chance I got until he gets on the court and shows us his greatness because he can be a great player, a very talented player.
