NBA superstar LeBron James has added another feather to his illustrious hat. The LA Lakers player, also known as "King James", is now a billionaire, as confirmed by a Forbes report on Thursday (June 02).&nbsp; The 37-year-old veteran forward, a four-time NBA champion and also a four-time NBA Most Valuable Player, ranks second on NBA's all-time scoring list and has been associated with the league since 2003.&nbsp;

In the Forbes list of highest-paid world athletes, counting from May 2021 to May 2022, LeBron is only second on the list,&nbsp;with a&nbsp; total income of USD 121.2 million. He&nbsp;trails behind&nbsp;Argentina's captain&nbsp;and Paris Saint-Germain star Lionel Messi, who has a total worth of USD 130 million. The top five comprise Cristiano Ronaldo (at the third spot with&nbsp;$115 million), Neymar ($95 million at the fourth spot), and Stephen Curry (with&nbsp;$92.8 million in the fifth position).

During an interview with GQ in 2014, LeBron had expressed his desire of becoming a billionaire. "If it happens. It's my biggest milestone," James said at the time. "Obviously. I want to maximize my business. And if I happen to get it, if I happen to be a billion-dollar athlete, ho. Hip hip hooray! Oh, my God, I'm gonna be excited."

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✅ $385 million in on court earnings 
✅ SpringHill Company 
✅ Stake in Liverpool F.C 
✅ Blaze Pizza 
 
LeBron James is officially the first active NBA player to become a billionaire 💰 
 
(Via: <a href="https://twitter.com/Forbes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Forbes</a>) <a href="https://t.co/fGAgrZHGUy">pic.twitter.com/fGAgrZHGUy</a>
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/ComplexSports/status/1532364828907651075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-lionel-messi-to-stephen-curry-top-5-forbes-richest-athletes-of-2022-478350#lionel-messi-478341">From Lionel Messi to Stephen Curry: Top 5 Forbes’ richest athletes of 2022</a>

In his glittering NBA career, James has earned in excess of USD 385 million in salary alone as a player where he has represented&nbsp;the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Lakers.&nbsp;Apart from his stint in the premier league, James also took a star turn in Hollywood with the film "Space Jam: A New Legacy" and managed to sell a minority stake in his production company, SpringHill. Thus, more&nbsp;than a whopping USD 500 million of his value comes from cash as well as investments.

In addition, the superstar basketballer James has an ownership stake in Fenway Sports Group, which owns English Premier League side Liverpool, Major League Baseball's Boston Red Sox whereas it&nbsp;made a deal to buy the ice hockey team Pittsburgh Penguins.

At 37, LeBron's overall stature and value continue to rise and made heads turn in the sporting fraternity.&nbsp;

NBA superstar LeBron James has added another feather to his illustrious hat. The LA Lakers player, also known as "King James", is now a billionaire, as confirmed by a Forbes report on Thursday (June 02).

NBA superstar LeBron James has added another feather to his illustrious hat. The LA Lakers player, also known as "King James", is now a billionaire, as confirmed by a Forbes report on Thursday (June 02). The 37-year-old veteran forward, a four-time NBA champion and also a four-time NBA Most Valuable Player, ranks second on NBA's all-time scoring list and has been associated with the league since 2003. In the Forbes list of highest-paid world athletes, counting from May 2021 to May 2022, LeBron is only second on the list, with a total income of USD 121.2 million. He trails behind Argentina's captain and Paris Saint-Germain star Lionel Messi, who has a total worth of USD 130 million. The top five comprise Cristiano Ronaldo (at the third spot with $115 million), Neymar ($95 million at the fourth spot), and Stephen Curry (with $92.8 million in the fifth position). During an interview with GQ in 2014, LeBron had expressed his desire of becoming a billionaire. "If it happens. It's my biggest milestone," James said at the time. "Obviously. I want to maximize my business. And if I happen to get it, if I happen to be a billion-dollar athlete, ho. Hip hip hooray! Oh, my God, I'm gonna be excited." ✅ $385 million in on court earnings ✅ SpringHill Company ✅ Stake in Liverpool F.C ✅ Blaze Pizza LeBron James is officially the first active NBA player to become a billionaire 💰 (Via: @Forbes) pic.twitter.com/fGAgrZHGUy — Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) June 2, 2022 × ALSO READ | From Lionel Messi to Stephen Curry: Top 5 Forbes’ richest athletes of 2022 In his glittering NBA career, James has earned in excess of USD 385 million in salary alone as a player where he has represented the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Lakers. Apart from his stint in the premier league, James also took a star turn in Hollywood with the film "Space Jam: A New Legacy" and managed to sell a minority stake in his production company, SpringHill. Thus, more than a whopping USD 500 million of his value comes from cash as well as investments. In addition, the superstar basketballer James has an ownership stake in Fenway Sports Group, which owns English Premier League side Liverpool, Major League Baseball's Boston Red Sox whereas it made a deal to buy the ice hockey team Pittsburgh Penguins. At 37, LeBron's overall stature and value continue to rise and made heads turn in the sporting fraternity.

LA Lakers superstar LeBron James creates history, becomes 1st active NBA player worth $1 billion

Most prominent athletes across sporting disciplines enjoy huge social media following&nbsp;and are immensely popular across the globe. From football to basketball and cricket, the prominent names in every sport have massive fan bases to boast of. While athletes are loved and often lauded by their fans for their on-field heroics, things are not the same always. There are instances when fans turn on their own teams and players to criticise their performances.

While constructive criticism is welcomed by most athletes, who understand the pressure that comes with representing big teams in their respective sports, there are instances when fans cross the line on social media while lashing out at an individual. Some resort to abuse and racist messages which are common across all sports.

Recently a found that professional basketball and football players have to endure 'horrific work-related online abuse'. The players are subjected to abuse and also targeted over their race and religion. The study was conducted by FIFPRO, the union representing footballers across the world and the unions representing NBA and WNBA.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-ham-footballer-kurt-zouma-given-180-hours-of-community-service-for-kicking-his-cat-484143">West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma given 180 hours of community service for kicking his cat</a>

The researchers used artificial intelligence to analyse the social media accounts of 80 footballers and 80 basketball players with the athletes accounting for a total of 200 million followers on social media. It was found that during the period of May to September 2021, the study flagged 1,558 abusive posts sent from 1,455 different accounts to the players across football leagues and the NBA.

The players were targeted by the fans for changing clubs, due to rivalries between teams, and their own poor performances on the field among others. 85% of abuse directed towards the football players was homophobic or racist in nature while 74% of the abuse thrown at basketball players was homophobic or racist.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-a-line-i-have-a-family-manchester-united-star-harry-maguire-breaks-silence-on-bomb-threat-484024">'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat</a>

“This report highlights that some of the most abused players were targeted as they changed clubs whilst others saw abuse in relation to on-field issues,“ said David Aganzo, president of FIFPRO.

“While the analysts also recognized players being targeted due to club rivalries or perceptions of their character, we must seek better cooperation amongst all stakeholders in the game to better protect those people that create the game in the first place," he added.

Most prominent athletes across sporting disciplines enjoy huge social media following and are immensely popular across the globe. From football to basketball and cricket, the prominent names in every sport have massive fan bases to boast of.

Most prominent athletes across sporting disciplines enjoy huge social media following and are immensely popular across the globe. From football to basketball and cricket, the prominent names in every sport have massive fan bases to boast of. While athletes are loved and often lauded by their fans for their on-field heroics, things are not the same always. There are instances when fans turn on their own teams and players to criticise their performances. While constructive criticism is welcomed by most athletes, who understand the pressure that comes with representing big teams in their respective sports, there are instances when fans cross the line on social media while lashing out at an individual. Some resort to abuse and racist messages which are common across all sports. Recently a found that professional basketball and football players have to endure 'horrific work-related online abuse'. The players are subjected to abuse and also targeted over their race and religion. The study was conducted by FIFPRO, the union representing footballers across the world and the unions representing NBA and WNBA. Also Read: West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma given 180 hours of community service for kicking his cat The researchers used artificial intelligence to analyse the social media accounts of 80 footballers and 80 basketball players with the athletes accounting for a total of 200 million followers on social media. It was found that during the period of May to September 2021, the study flagged 1,558 abusive posts sent from 1,455 different accounts to the players across football leagues and the NBA. The players were targeted by the fans for changing clubs, due to rivalries between teams, and their own poor performances on the field among others. 85% of abuse directed towards the football players was homophobic or racist in nature while 74% of the abuse thrown at basketball players was homophobic or racist. Also Read: 'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat “This report highlights that some of the most abused players were targeted as they changed clubs whilst others saw abuse in relation to on-field issues,“ said David Aganzo, president of FIFPRO. “While the analysts also recognized players being targeted due to club rivalries or perceptions of their character, we must seek better cooperation amongst all stakeholders in the game to better protect those people that create the game in the first place," he added.

Professional football and basketball players suffer horrific onine abuse, finds new study

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) on Wednesday excluded Russia and Belarus from participating and hosting international tournaments until further notice following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The men`s teams of Russia and Belarus have been withdrawn from European qualifiers for the World Cup next year and are not being replaced. Russia has called the invasion a "a special military operation" while Belarus has served as a key staging area.

Russia`s women`s team, who were due to play in the World Cup in Australia this year, have been withdrawn and replaced by Puerto Rico, while the Under-17 women`s team of Russia have been replaced with Serbia for the World Cup in Hungary.

Neither country is allowed to participate in 3X3 competitions this year, including the World Cup. 
Several sports federations have banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials, and moved or cancelled events in the countries.

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) on Wednesday excluded Russia and Belarus from participating and hosting international tournaments until further notice following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) on Wednesday excluded Russia and Belarus from participating and hosting international tournaments until further notice following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The men`s teams of Russia and Belarus have been withdrawn from European qualifiers for the World Cup next year and are not being replaced. Russia has called the invasion a "a special military operation" while Belarus has served as a key staging area. Russia`s women`s team, who were due to play in the World Cup in Australia this year, have been withdrawn and replaced by Puerto Rico, while the Under-17 women`s team of Russia have been replaced with Serbia for the World Cup in Hungary. Neither country is allowed to participate in 3X3 competitions this year, including the World Cup. Several sports federations have banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials, and moved or cancelled events in the countries.

International Basketball Federation bans Russia and Belarus from international competitions

A gamble on building a professional basketball team in Australia`s smallest state has paid off in spades, with the Tasmania JackJumpers moving within reach of a fairytale championship in their debut season. Having entered the National Basketball League (NBL) as favourites to finish last, the JackJumpers knocked out defending champions Melbourne United 76-73 in a Game Three semi-final decider on Monday. "Our guys were gritty, tough, never give up ... just an incredible effort for our group,” said ecstatic American coach Scott Roth.

"To defend the island (Tasmania) again and impact a state like these guys have done is just a fantastic thing for our group and the state." The JackJumpers will travel to the Sydney Super Dome to take on three-times champions Sydney Kings for Game One of a best-of-five Grand Final series. The Tasmanian team are named after a species of venomous ant most frequently found in the island state. The ants are known for their ability to jump long distances and their sting is potentially fatal for allergic humans.

Few, if any, could have imagined the JackJumpers would leap all the way to the Grand Final. 
With a modest roster stitched together through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were low expectations for a team operating in a state shunned by Australia`s top sporting competitions. 
Tasmania`s previous professional basketball team, the Hobart Devils, folded in 1996 due to financial problems.

`ANGRY ANTS` 
Crippled by homesickness, Roth was within a whisker of booking a flight to Florida before the season started to reunite with his family, who he had not seen in over a year. 
"When you`re away from your wife for 14 months and your daughter for 18 months .... it was getting difficult for me, mentally, to see if I’d ever actually get home to see them," he told reporters. "All I was thinking about was just going to the airport and going home ... I was just crashing and burning."

A rough start to the season tested Roth`s faith further as his team slumped to 2-6 but the JackJumpers rallied to sneak into the semi-finals, drawing raucous crowds to their home Derwent Entertainment Centre. 
A pre-game calf injury to Melbourne United captain Chris Goulding hurt the home side in the semi-final decider on Monday, but the JackJumpers` defensive grit and 30 points from American guard Josh Adams ultimately proved the difference.

The Sydney Kings swept their semi-final series against the Illawarra Hawks and are hungry for a fourth title, with COVID-19 having ended their championship hopes two years ago. With foreign players fearing for their families overseas as the pandemic spread, the Kings pulled out midway through the 2019/20 Grand Final series, leaving the NBL to award the championship to the Perth Wildcats.

Having stung Melbourne at their home John Cain Arena, the "angry ants" from Tasmania are unlikely to be overawed by the Kings. "It`s a special group," Roth said of his team. "It`s been a celebration all year for us and we continue."

A gamble on building a professional basketball team in Australia`s smallest state has paid off in spades, with the Tasmania JackJumpers moving within reach of a fairytale championship in their debut season.

A gamble on building a professional basketball team in Australia`s smallest state has paid off in spades, with the Tasmania JackJumpers moving within reach of a fairytale championship in their debut season. Having entered the National Basketball League (NBL) as favourites to finish last, the JackJumpers knocked out defending champions Melbourne United 76-73 in a Game Three semi-final decider on Monday. "Our guys were gritty, tough, never give up ... just an incredible effort for our group,” said ecstatic American coach Scott Roth. "To defend the island (Tasmania) again and impact a state like these guys have done is just a fantastic thing for our group and the state." The JackJumpers will travel to the Sydney Super Dome to take on three-times champions Sydney Kings for Game One of a best-of-five Grand Final series. The Tasmanian team are named after a species of venomous ant most frequently found in the island state. The ants are known for their ability to jump long distances and their sting is potentially fatal for allergic humans. Few, if any, could have imagined the JackJumpers would leap all the way to the Grand Final. With a modest roster stitched together through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were low expectations for a team operating in a state shunned by Australia`s top sporting competitions. Tasmania`s previous professional basketball team, the Hobart Devils, folded in 1996 due to financial problems. `ANGRY ANTS` Crippled by homesickness, Roth was within a whisker of booking a flight to Florida before the season started to reunite with his family, who he had not seen in over a year. "When you`re away from your wife for 14 months and your daughter for 18 months .... it was getting difficult for me, mentally, to see if I’d ever actually get home to see them," he told reporters. "All I was thinking about was just going to the airport and going home ... I was just crashing and burning." A rough start to the season tested Roth`s faith further as his team slumped to 2-6 but the JackJumpers rallied to sneak into the semi-finals, drawing raucous crowds to their home Derwent Entertainment Centre. A pre-game calf injury to Melbourne United captain Chris Goulding hurt the home side in the semi-final decider on Monday, but the JackJumpers` defensive grit and 30 points from American guard Josh Adams ultimately proved the difference. The Sydney Kings swept their semi-final series against the Illawarra Hawks and are hungry for a fourth title, with COVID-19 having ended their championship hopes two years ago. With foreign players fearing for their families overseas as the pandemic spread, the Kings pulled out midway through the 2019/20 Grand Final series, leaving the NBL to award the championship to the Perth Wildcats. Having stung Melbourne at their home John Cain Arena, the "angry ants" from Tasmania are unlikely to be overawed by the Kings. "It`s a special group," Roth said of his team. "It`s been a celebration all year for us and we continue."

Tasmania JackJumpers land in Australia's NBL final by ousting defending champions Melbourne United

Vincent Pourchot was 6 feet tall when he was just 8-years-old. He is now France's tallest man, officially. Pourchot is a professional basketball player who has also become TikTok star because of his humorous videos. He is definitely not hard to find in a crowd with his 2.22 metres tall frame. And now he commands 1.6 million subscribers on TikTok.

Pourchot plays for Tours Métropole Basket. He has been using his uniqueness in his videos.

His height puts him in interesting situations in his day-to-day life. He has to lower his head before going through literally every door. Washing dishes may be a simple enough task for everyone but not exactly for Pourchot, who has to sit on a chair if he wants to do the dishes.

His videos have made him more popular than he was before.

"I took the plunge during isolation. One evening, I filmed myself dancing to demonstrate that it was impossible for me to see myself in full in the mirrors of my apartment," he explains. "The video wasn't great, but I posted it on TikTok anyway. What a surprise when I woke up!"

Pourchot was quoted by Euronews.

He is now using his large following to create awareness and for those who are not comfortable with uniqueness of their body, he is an icon. He has been quoted in the news report talking about a message he got from a tall school boy.

The boy was reportedly being bullied in school due to his height. He says that Pourchot's TikTok videos gave him confidence.

"I feel useful," he has been quoted as saying.

Vincent Pourchot was 6 feet tall when he was just 8-years-old. He is now France's tallest man, officially. Pourchot is a professional basketball player who has also become TikTok star because of his humorous videos.

Vincent Pourchot was 6 feet tall when he was just 8-years-old. He is now France's tallest man, officially. Pourchot is a professional basketball player who has also become TikTok star because of his humorous videos. He is definitely not hard to find in a crowd with his 2.22 metres tall frame. And now he commands 1.6 million subscribers on TikTok. Pourchot plays for Tours Métropole Basket. He has been using his uniqueness in his videos. His height puts him in interesting situations in his day-to-day life. He has to lower his head before going through literally every door. Washing dishes may be a simple enough task for everyone but not exactly for Pourchot, who has to sit on a chair if he wants to do the dishes. His videos have made him more popular than he was before. "I took the plunge during isolation. One evening, I filmed myself dancing to demonstrate that it was impossible for me to see myself in full in the mirrors of my apartment," he explains. "The video wasn't great, but I posted it on TikTok anyway. What a surprise when I woke up!" Pourchot was quoted by Euronews. He is now using his large following to create awareness and for those who are not comfortable with uniqueness of their body, he is an icon. He has been quoted in the news report talking about a message he got from a tall school boy. The boy was reportedly being bullied in school due to his height. He says that Pourchot's TikTok videos gave him confidence. "I feel useful," he has been quoted as saying.

France's tallest man uses TikTok fame to celebrate uniqueness of human body

Seven-times WNBA All-Star player Brittney Griner's detention in Russia for the possession of vape cartridges containing hash oil has been extended until May 19, according to Russian news agency TASS.

TASS reported that the Khimkinsky court of the Moscow region ruled to detain Griner for at least two more months.

"The court granted the petition of the investigation and extended the term of U.S. citizen Griner's detention until May 19," TASS quoted the court as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-england-open-pv-sindhu-saina-nehwal-win-over-their-respective-opponents-to-enter-second-round-463207">All England Open: PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal enter second round with respective wins</a>

Ekaterina Kalugina, a member of Public Monitoring Commission, a semi-official body with access to Russian prisons, told TASS Griner was sharing a cell with two other women with no previous convictions, adding that Griner's only issue was that the prison beds were too short for her 6'7" frame.

Without identifying Griner, a centre for the Phoenix Mercury, the Russian Customs Service said earlier this month a player was detained in February after arriving at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport on a flight from New York.

TASS identified the player as Griner, citing a source. The Phoenix Mercury team, without elaborating, said: "We are aware of and are closely monitoring the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia."

A scan of the player's luggage revealed cartridges containing "liquid with hashish oil", and a criminal case has been opened carrying a possible sentence of five to ten years in prison, the customs service said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-2024-mark-england-named-chef-de-mission-for-british-olympic-team-for-third-consecutive-games-463235">Paris 2024: Mark England named Chef de Mission for British Olympic team for third consecutive Games</a>

It was not clear when in February Griner, who plays in Russia during the WNBA's winter off-season, was detained.

At a joint press conference with Moldova President Maia Sandu, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Biden administration had assigned an embassy team to work on Griner's case.

Griner has won Olympic gold medals with the U.S. national teams in 2016 and 2021.

Seven-times WNBA All-Star player Brittney Griner's detention in Russia for the possession of vape cartridges containing hash oil has been extended until May 19, according to Russian news agency TASS.

Seven-times WNBA All-Star player Brittney Griner's detention in Russia for the possession of vape cartridges containing hash oil has been extended until May 19, according to Russian news agency TASS. TASS reported that the Khimkinsky court of the Moscow region ruled to detain Griner for at least two more months. "The court granted the petition of the investigation and extended the term of U.S. citizen Griner's detention until May 19," TASS quoted the court as saying. ALSO READ: All England Open: PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal enter second round with respective wins Ekaterina Kalugina, a member of Public Monitoring Commission, a semi-official body with access to Russian prisons, told TASS Griner was sharing a cell with two other women with no previous convictions, adding that Griner's only issue was that the prison beds were too short for her 6'7" frame. Without identifying Griner, a centre for the Phoenix Mercury, the Russian Customs Service said earlier this month a player was detained in February after arriving at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport on a flight from New York. TASS identified the player as Griner, citing a source. The Phoenix Mercury team, without elaborating, said: "We are aware of and are closely monitoring the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia." A scan of the player's luggage revealed cartridges containing "liquid with hashish oil", and a criminal case has been opened carrying a possible sentence of five to ten years in prison, the customs service said. ALSO READ: Paris 2024: Mark England named Chef de Mission for British Olympic team for third consecutive Games It was not clear when in February Griner, who plays in Russia during the WNBA's winter off-season, was detained. At a joint press conference with Moldova President Maia Sandu, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Biden administration had assigned an embassy team to work on Griner's case. Griner has won Olympic gold medals with the U.S. national teams in 2016 and 2021.

Seven-times WNBA All-Star player Brittney Griner's detention gets extended by Russian court

You may not know the name Aulcie Perry, but in Israel, the former basketball center is a legend — like “Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar rolled into one,” as a sports journalist in the documentary “Aulcie” puts it. Through interviews, archival images and illustrated sequences, the movie, directed by Dani Menkin, offers a treacly biography of the overseas celebrity athlete whose career was ultimately derailed by an addiction to heroin.

Born in Newark, New Jersey, the 6-foot-10 Perry always saw basketball as his calling. Hoop dreams propelled him to the NBA, but after he was promptly cut from the New York Knicks, Perry took a chance: He accepted a spot with Maccabi Tel Aviv. The team proved a solid fit, and Perry led Maccabi to European Champions Cup victories in 1977 and 1981, before drug addiction and a trafficking charge forced him to shelf his remarkable career.

There is a contagious thrill to the movie’s portrait of its subject’s achievements, especially his whirlwind romance with Israeli supermodel Tami Ben Ami. But when it comes to Perry’s moments of struggle, “Aulcie” trips up. Schmaltzy music and fuzzy pictures give a hard tug at the heartstrings, and footage of Perry missing shots on an empty court is frequently deployed as a superficial visual metaphor for hardship. The movie also declines to engage with Israel’s evolving politics or culture and where Perry fit in, opting instead for a melodramatic portrait of a star that fell too soon.

'Aulcie'

Not rated. In English and Hebrew, with subtitles. Running time: 1 hour, 15 minutes. In theaters and on virtual cinemas.

You may not know the name Aulcie Perry, but in Israel, the former basketball center is a legend — like “Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar rolled into one,” as a sports journalist in the documentary “Aulcie” puts it.

You may not know the name Aulcie Perry, but in Israel, the former basketball center is a legend — like “Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar rolled into one,” as a sports journalist in the documentary “Aulcie” puts it. Through interviews, archival images and illustrated sequences, the movie, directed by Dani Menkin, offers a treacly biography of the overseas celebrity athlete whose career was ultimately derailed by an addiction to heroin. Born in Newark, New Jersey, the 6-foot-10 Perry always saw basketball as his calling. Hoop dreams propelled him to the NBA, but after he was promptly cut from the New York Knicks, Perry took a chance: He accepted a spot with Maccabi Tel Aviv. The team proved a solid fit, and Perry led Maccabi to European Champions Cup victories in 1977 and 1981, before drug addiction and a trafficking charge forced him to shelf his remarkable career. There is a contagious thrill to the movie’s portrait of its subject’s achievements, especially his whirlwind romance with Israeli supermodel Tami Ben Ami. But when it comes to Perry’s moments of struggle, “Aulcie” trips up. Schmaltzy music and fuzzy pictures give a hard tug at the heartstrings, and footage of Perry missing shots on an empty court is frequently deployed as a superficial visual metaphor for hardship. The movie also declines to engage with Israel’s evolving politics or culture and where Perry fit in, opting instead for a melodramatic portrait of a star that fell too soon. 'Aulcie' Not rated. In English and Hebrew, with subtitles. Running time: 1 hour, 15 minutes. In theaters and on virtual cinemas.

'Aulcie' review: Love and basketball, in Israel

Despite Beijing blocking all Celtics games in the communist nation, Boston Celtics centre Enes Kanter maintained his pro-democracy activity Sunday night, tweeting images of his "Free China" game sneakers.&nbsp;

“XI JINPING and the Chinese Communist Party Someone has to teach you a lesson, I will NEVER apologize for speaking the truth. You can NOT buy me. You can NOT scare me. You can NOT silence me. Bring it on!!” tweeted Kanter, who is Turkish and has a history of activism.

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XI JINPING and the Chinese Communist Party 
 
Someone has to teach you a lesson, 
I will NEVER apologize for speaking the truth. 
You can NOT buy me. 
You can NOT scare me. 
You can NOT silence me. 
 
Bring it on!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreedomShoes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreedomShoes</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/XinnieThePooh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#XinnieThePooh</a> <a href="https://t.co/JFGEgIaXlN">pic.twitter.com/JFGEgIaXlN</a>
— Enes Kanter (@EnesKanter) <a href="https://twitter.com/EnesKanter/status/1452405549438541830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Kanter wore the red-and-white sneakers on the bench during Sunday’s game at the Houston Rockets.

Kanter, who did not participate in the game, has worn sneakers with an anti-China slogan for the third time in the last week. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/modern-land-another-chinese-property-developer-defaults-shares-drop-424059">Also read | Modern Land: Another Chinese property developer defaults, shares drop</a> 
 
The shoes were designed in collaboration with Badiucao, a Shanghai-born, Australia-based dissident cartoonist whose show in Hong Kong was cancelled in 2018.

The first pair, which was worn on Wednesday, included an inscription that said "Free Tibet."

"Free Uyghur," read the second, which was donned on Friday.

Kanter was photographed clutching the head of the cartoon character Winnie the Pooh in the most recent pair.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite Beijing blocking all Celtics games in the communist nation, Boston Celtics centre Enes Kanter maintained his pro-democracy activity Sunday night, tweeting images of his "Free China" game sneakers.

Despite Beijing blocking all Celtics games in the communist nation, Boston Celtics centre Enes Kanter maintained his pro-democracy activity Sunday night, tweeting images of his "Free China" game sneakers. “XI JINPING and the Chinese Communist Party Someone has to teach you a lesson, I will NEVER apologize for speaking the truth. You can NOT buy me. You can NOT scare me. You can NOT silence me. Bring it on!!” tweeted Kanter, who is Turkish and has a history of activism. XI JINPING and the Chinese Communist Party Someone has to teach you a lesson, I will NEVER apologize for speaking the truth. You can NOT buy me. You can NOT scare me. You can NOT silence me. Bring it on!! #FreedomShoes#XinnieThePooh pic.twitter.com/JFGEgIaXlN — Enes Kanter (@EnesKanter) October 24, 2021 × Kanter wore the red-and-white sneakers on the bench during Sunday’s game at the Houston Rockets. Kanter, who did not participate in the game, has worn sneakers with an anti-China slogan for the third time in the last week. Also read | Modern Land: Another Chinese property developer defaults, shares drop The shoes were designed in collaboration with Badiucao, a Shanghai-born, Australia-based dissident cartoonist whose show in Hong Kong was cancelled in 2018. The first pair, which was worn on Wednesday, included an inscription that said "Free Tibet." "Free Uyghur," read the second, which was donned on Friday. Kanter was photographed clutching the head of the cartoon character Winnie the Pooh in the most recent pair. (With inputs from agencies)

Censored NBA player Enes Kanter wears ‘free China’ game shoes

Spanish basketball great Pau Gasol announced on Tuesday that he is retiring from the sport after a 23-year career.

"I'm here to tell you that I'm going to retire from professional basketball. It's a difficult decision after so many years but it`s a decision I've taken carefully," Gasol, 41, told a news conference at Barcelona's Liceu theatre.

Gasol, who stands 7 feet 1 inch, made his professional debut in 1998 with Barca as a centre before being signed by NBA side Memphis Grizzlies in 2001.

He won NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009 and 2010 while being chosen in the All-Star team on six occasions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-india-withdraws-from-2022-birmingham-cwg-cites-covid-concerns-discriminatory-quarantine-rules-418432">Hockey India withdraws from 2022 Birmingham CWG; cites Covid concerns, discriminatory quarantine rules</a>

Gasol later played for Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs and had a brief stint with Milwaukee Bucks plus four months at Portland Trail Blazers, where injury prevented him playing.

He returned to Barcelona earlier this year, helping his boyhood club end a seven-year wait to win the Spanish championship in June.

Gasol was a talisman for Spain, helping them win the Olympic silver medal at the 2008 and 2012 Games plus bronze in 2016.

He recovered from almost two years out injured to compete at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, where Spain lost in the quarter-finals to eventual winners the USA in his final international.

Spanish basketball great Pau Gasol announced on Tuesday that he is retiring from the sport after a 23-year career. "I'm here to tell you that I'm going to retire from professional basketball.

Spanish basketball great Pau Gasol announced on Tuesday that he is retiring from the sport after a 23-year career. "I'm here to tell you that I'm going to retire from professional basketball. It's a difficult decision after so many years but it`s a decision I've taken carefully," Gasol, 41, told a news conference at Barcelona's Liceu theatre. Gasol, who stands 7 feet 1 inch, made his professional debut in 1998 with Barca as a centre before being signed by NBA side Memphis Grizzlies in 2001. He won NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009 and 2010 while being chosen in the All-Star team on six occasions. Also Read: Hockey India withdraws from 2022 Birmingham CWG; cites Covid concerns, discriminatory quarantine rules Gasol later played for Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs and had a brief stint with Milwaukee Bucks plus four months at Portland Trail Blazers, where injury prevented him playing. He returned to Barcelona earlier this year, helping his boyhood club end a seven-year wait to win the Spanish championship in June. Gasol was a talisman for Spain, helping them win the Olympic silver medal at the 2008 and 2012 Games plus bronze in 2016. He recovered from almost two years out injured to compete at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, where Spain lost in the quarter-finals to eventual winners the USA in his final international.

Basketball- Pau Gasol retires after 23-year career, two NBA titles, three Olympic medals

From gender-equality to the participation of trans-athletes: A list of epic firsts at Tokyo Olympics

The rampant United States swept past Japan to their seventh straight women's basketball crown Sunday, with Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi collecting their fifth Olympic gold medals to cap remarkable careers.

Brittney Griner scored a game-high 30 points with five rebounds and two assists as the hosts were overpowered 90-75 by a team that stretched their Olympic win streak to 55 games dating back to their last defeat in the 1992 semis.

They went to half-time with a 50-39 lead and there was no stopping them, with a valiant Japan settling for second place and a best-ever Olympic finish.

Beating the Americans in Saitama was always going to be a huge ask, with the USA one of the most dominant teams in Olympic sporting history.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-chief-thomas-bach-calls-tokyo-olympics-2020-very-successful-403923" hreflang="en">IOC chief Thomas Bach calls Tokyo Olympics 2020 'very successful'</a>

They had won eight out of the past nine Olympic titles heading into the final.&nbsp;

Their only blemishes in the history of the tournament were a silver behind the Soviet Union at the inaugural event in 1976 and bronze in 1992.&nbsp;

"It really is hard to wrap your head around it, to grasp what it is," said Bird on her fifth gold, as &nbsp;US soccer star fiancée Megan Rapinoe watched on in Saitama Super Arena.

"Twenty years of staying true to the game, making sure you're at the top of your game, so much sacrifice."

Bird, 40, and Taurasi, 39, both scored early buckets as the US raced to a 13-point lead against a nervous Japan, closing out the first quarter with a 23-14 advantage and Griner already into double digits.

Japan stabilized and began making some shots but they again struggled with Griner's 6ft 7ins (2.01 metres) height in the paint as the US picked her out repeatedly and she went 9-of-10 from the floor.

They took a 50-39 lead into the second half and built it into a 75-56 edge heading into the final stretch, with A'ja Wilson contributing 19 points and five assists for the game.

Japan were led by Maki Takada with 17 points, but the US successfully restricted the dangerous Rui Machida to just six assists, after she made an incredible 18 in the semi-finals to set a new Olympic women's game record.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-clowns-and-propaganda-best-quotes-of-the-tokyo-games-403914" hreflang="en">Olympics 2020: Clowns and propaganda - best quotes of the Tokyo Games</a>

The Americans' seventh title equalled the longest ever streak by a team in any Olympic sport -- matching the feat of the US men's basketball team between 1936 and 1968.

Bird, who has won four WNBA titles with the Seattle Storm, and Taurasi, who has led the&nbsp;Phoenix Mercury&nbsp;to three WNBA championships, have been front and centre during the past five.

The pair won their first gold at Athens in 2004 as two of the youngest players on a team that also featured Dawn Staley, who claimed three gold as a player and is now the national coach.

"We've ignored the 'five gold' talk because we just want to be in the moment, and we want to really enjoy our last&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;and make it about the team," said Tuarasi.

"It's a lot of time on the court, it's a lot of time away from your family, and we've been able to do it together (her and Bird) which means probably more than any medal that we've won."

The rampant United States swept past Japan to their seventh straight women's basketball crown Sunday, with Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi collecting their fifth Olympic gold medals to cap remarkable careers.

The rampant United States swept past Japan to their seventh straight women's basketball crown Sunday, with Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi collecting their fifth Olympic gold medals to cap remarkable careers. Brittney Griner scored a game-high 30 points with five rebounds and two assists as the hosts were overpowered 90-75 by a team that stretched their Olympic win streak to 55 games dating back to their last defeat in the 1992 semis. They went to half-time with a 50-39 lead and there was no stopping them, with a valiant Japan settling for second place and a best-ever Olympic finish. Beating the Americans in Saitama was always going to be a huge ask, with the USA one of the most dominant teams in Olympic sporting history. ALSO READ: IOC chief Thomas Bach calls Tokyo Olympics 2020 'very successful' They had won eight out of the past nine Olympic titles heading into the final. Their only blemishes in the history of the tournament were a silver behind the Soviet Union at the inaugural event in 1976 and bronze in 1992. "It really is hard to wrap your head around it, to grasp what it is," said Bird on her fifth gold, as US soccer star fiancée Megan Rapinoe watched on in Saitama Super Arena. "Twenty years of staying true to the game, making sure you're at the top of your game, so much sacrifice." Bird, 40, and Taurasi, 39, both scored early buckets as the US raced to a 13-point lead against a nervous Japan, closing out the first quarter with a 23-14 advantage and Griner already into double digits. Japan stabilized and began making some shots but they again struggled with Griner's 6ft 7ins (2.01 metres) height in the paint as the US picked her out repeatedly and she went 9-of-10 from the floor. They took a 50-39 lead into the second half and built it into a 75-56 edge heading into the final stretch, with A'ja Wilson contributing 19 points and five assists for the game. Japan were led by Maki Takada with 17 points, but the US successfully restricted the dangerous Rui Machida to just six assists, after she made an incredible 18 in the semi-finals to set a new Olympic women's game record. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: Clowns and propaganda - best quotes of the Tokyo Games The Americans' seventh title equalled the longest ever streak by a team in any Olympic sport -- matching the feat of the US men's basketball team between 1936 and 1968. Bird, who has won four WNBA titles with the Seattle Storm, and Taurasi, who has led the Phoenix Mercury to three WNBA championships, have been front and centre during the past five. The pair won their first gold at Athens in 2004 as two of the youngest players on a team that also featured Dawn Staley, who claimed three gold as a player and is now the national coach. "We've ignored the 'five gold' talk because we just want to be in the moment, and we want to really enjoy our last Olympics and make it about the team," said Tuarasi. "It's a lot of time on the court, it's a lot of time away from your family, and we've been able to do it together (her and Bird) which means probably more than any medal that we've won."

Tokyo Olympics: All-conquering US win seventh straight women's Olympic basketball title

Kevin Durant led Team USA's victory over France in the men's basketball final in Tokyo on Saturday, avenging a first-round loss and claiming a 16th gold for the country in the sport.

Durant, who in these Games surpassed Carmelo Anthony as the United States' highest career scorer, led with 29 points in the 87-82 victory at the Saitama Super Arena.

The championship attracted the biggest crowd yet to the arena north of Tokyo in these Games, with the bottom bowl of seats about half full of athletes, officials, media and volunteers in place of fans due to COVID-19 restrictions.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-athletics-kenyas-peres-jepchirchir-wins-womens-marathon-with-late-burst-403587">Tokyo Olympics athletics: Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir wins women's marathon with late burst</a>

&nbsp;

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Four in a row! 
 
Kevin Durant leads <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> to their fourth consecutive gold in the men's Olympic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Basketball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Basketball</a> tournament!<a href="https://twitter.com/FIBA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FIBA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamUSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TeamUSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/EAvj7VU9vd">pic.twitter.com/EAvj7VU9vd</a>
— Olympics (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1423862292060442624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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France earned their third Olympic silver medal in men's basketball. Slovenia, making their debut at the Games, will play Australia in the bronze medal match later on Saturday.

The U.S. men have historically been the team to beat, with 15 gold medals since 1936 going into these Games. This championship marks their fourth straight gold medal.

But this year's team proved to be vulnerable, dropping two-straight exhibition games in July and suffering a shock 83-76 defeat to France in the preliminary round of the Games, which was their first defeat on the Olympic stage since 2004.

Kevin Durant led Team USA's victory over France in the men's basketball final in Tokyo on Saturday, avenging a first-round loss and claiming a 16th gold for the country in the sport.

Kevin Durant led Team USA's victory over France in the men's basketball final in Tokyo on Saturday, avenging a first-round loss and claiming a 16th gold for the country in the sport. Durant, who in these Games surpassed Carmelo Anthony as the United States' highest career scorer, led with 29 points in the 87-82 victory at the Saitama Super Arena. The championship attracted the biggest crowd yet to the arena north of Tokyo in these Games, with the bottom bowl of seats about half full of athletes, officials, media and volunteers in place of fans due to COVID-19 restrictions. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics athletics: Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir wins women's marathon with late burst Four in a row! Kevin Durant leads #USA to their fourth consecutive gold in the men's Olympic #Basketball tournament!@FIBA @TeamUSA pic.twitter.com/EAvj7VU9vd — Olympics (@Olympics) August 7, 2021 × France earned their third Olympic silver medal in men's basketball. Slovenia, making their debut at the Games, will play Australia in the bronze medal match later on Saturday. The U.S. men have historically been the team to beat, with 15 gold medals since 1936 going into these Games. This championship marks their fourth straight gold medal. But this year's team proved to be vulnerable, dropping two-straight exhibition games in July and suffering a shock 83-76 defeat to France in the preliminary round of the Games, which was their first defeat on the Olympic stage since 2004.

Tokyo Olympics, men's basketball: US beat France to win 16th men's gold

The United States men`s basketball coach Gregg Popovich lauded the sportsmanship showed by his players and their opponents Iran during their Olympic match on Wednesday, saying it showed the potential of sport to transcend differences. 
 
The two sides both applauded after their countries national anthems were played at the Saitama Super Arena and fist bumped each other before the game and shook hands after. 
 
After the game, which the U.S. won 120-66, Popovich said that his team played well against a "very hard-working Iranian team." 
 
Asked about the significance of the two countries that have had a contentious history facing each other at the Games, Popovich said that people were able to put aside differences of national policy. 
 
"In general people in different countries get along a whole lot better than their governments do," he told reporters. "Once you get to the politicians, suddenly it becomes much more complicated." 
 
Wednesday`s game recalled a football match between the two nations at the 1998 World Cup, when the Iranians gave their American rivals flowers as a sign of respect. The two teams also took a joint photograph prior to kick off as a show of solidarity. 
 
That match-up ended with a 2-1 win for Iran. 
 
"The Olympics... transcends all that," Popovich said on Wednesday. "There is no surprise that coaches would enjoy meeting each other, talking with each other and players show sportsmanship, they did. You just wish that was real life."

The United States men`s basketball coach Gregg Popovich lauded the sportsmanship showed by his players and their opponents Iran during their Olympic match on Wednesday, saying it showed the potential of sport to transcend differences.

The United States men`s basketball coach Gregg Popovich lauded the sportsmanship showed by his players and their opponents Iran during their Olympic match on Wednesday, saying it showed the potential of sport to transcend differences. The two sides both applauded after their countries national anthems were played at the Saitama Super Arena and fist bumped each other before the game and shook hands after. After the game, which the U.S. won 120-66, Popovich said that his team played well against a "very hard-working Iranian team." Asked about the significance of the two countries that have had a contentious history facing each other at the Games, Popovich said that people were able to put aside differences of national policy. "In general people in different countries get along a whole lot better than their governments do," he told reporters. "Once you get to the politicians, suddenly it becomes much more complicated." Wednesday`s game recalled a football match between the two nations at the 1998 World Cup, when the Iranians gave their American rivals flowers as a sign of respect. The two teams also took a joint photograph prior to kick off as a show of solidarity. That match-up ended with a 2-1 win for Iran. "The Olympics... transcends all that," Popovich said on Wednesday. "There is no surprise that coaches would enjoy meeting each other, talking with each other and players show sportsmanship, they did. You just wish that was real life."

Tokyo Olympics: US basketball coach praises Iran, American sportsmanship

A basketball-playing robot CUE captured everybody's attention during the men's preliminary round Group B game between the United States and France on Sunday at the Tokyo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-coachs-wild-celebration-goes-viral-after-australian-swimmer-wins-gold-watch-400732">Olympics</a> as it displayed its skills at halftime.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-pakistan-and-two-other-countries-make-awkward-entry-in-opening-ceremony-watch-400139">Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan and two other countries make awkward entry in opening ceremony</a>

The 6-foot-10-inch basketball robot has been created by Toyota. It uses sensors on its torso to judge the distance and angle of the basket and uses motorised arms and knees to execute set shots.

<img alt="Basketball Robot" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7585aaa-9b64-4d59-8856-0c0a7f638d54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_51.jpg" />

The robot wearing jersey No-95 became the talking point of the game with its entertaining style of play. The robot is not a new feature as it had made its debut three&nbsp;years ago.

The robot can't dribble or jump but it can throw some deep winners as it showed off its skill hitting a free throw, a three-pointer and a half-court shot outperforming many star players and stole everybody's heart.

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Artificial Intelligence Basketball Robot CUE! 
 
Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Toyota?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Toyota</a> to developed a CUE Robot!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/artificialintellegence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#artificialintellegence</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/toyota?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#toyota</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cybersecurity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cybersecurity</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cue</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/robot?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#robot</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/basketballrobot?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#basketballrobot</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/basketball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#basketball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wethenorth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wethenorth</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/toyotacanada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#toyotacanada</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/abdullatifjameel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#abdullatifjameel</a> <a href="https://t.co/h8G9hs3LpB">pic.twitter.com/h8G9hs3LpB</a>
— Azhar Khan (@khanazharsemail) <a href="https://twitter.com/khanazharsemail/status/1236120488562372608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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How about a basketball match with the robot? 
Meet Cue, the robot that can shoot basketball with nearly 100% accuracy.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/robots?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#robots</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/roboticplayer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#roboticplayer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/artificialintelligence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#artificialintelligence</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/basketball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#basketball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/robotforgames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#robotforgames</a> <a href="https://t.co/ESxTsitU11">https://t.co/ESxTsitU11</a>
— Avishkaar (@AvishkaarEdu) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvishkaarEdu/status/1402118460243546113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Toyota CUE Basketball Robot That Never Misses A Free Throw <a href="https://t.co/gwnae9MhJM">https://t.co/gwnae9MhJM</a> <a href="https://t.co/NOTMAfaCvU">pic.twitter.com/NOTMAfaCvU</a>
— gadgetking (@gadgetking) <a href="https://twitter.com/gadgetking/status/975791303786102786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The chances of CUE replacing the US all-star team may not be on the agenda anytime soon but from the looks of it, the US team may have picked a few tips from him during their embarrassing show against France on Sunday.

The star-studded US basketball team led by 11-time NBA all-star Kevin Durant were soundly beaten 83-76 by France which was their first defeat since the 2004 Athens Olympics.

<img alt="Basketball Robot" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8e5d53aa-afd1-4664-a9a7-39cb1001f6b2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_20.jpg" />

The determined French team came from behind to overpower the US team as the Americans missed their final nine shots. The French team was down 10 points but they came back fiercely in the final quarter to destabilise the US team which had no answers to French fury.&nbsp;

Durant himself had said earlier that the Tokyo Olympics won't be a "cakewalk" as his worst fears came true on Sunday.

Fournier top-scored with 28 points for France as the underrated team stunned the United States.

The USA will take on Iran in their next game on Wednesday while France will clash against the Czech Republic.

(With inputs from Agencies)

A basketball-playing robot CUE captured everybody's attention during the men's preliminary round Group B game between the United States and France on Sunday at the Tokyo Olympics as it displayed its skills at halftime.

A basketball-playing robot CUE captured everybody's attention during the men's preliminary round Group B game between the United States and France on Sunday at the Tokyo Olympics as it displayed its skills at halftime. Watch: Pakistan and two other countries make awkward entry in opening ceremony The 6-foot-10-inch basketball robot has been created by Toyota. It uses sensors on its torso to judge the distance and angle of the basket and uses motorised arms and knees to execute set shots. The robot wearing jersey No-95 became the talking point of the game with its entertaining style of play. The robot is not a new feature as it had made its debut three years ago. The robot can't dribble or jump but it can throw some deep winners as it showed off its skill hitting a free throw, a three-pointer and a half-court shot outperforming many star players and stole everybody's heart. Artificial Intelligence Basketball Robot CUE! Thank you #Toyota to developed a CUE Robot!#artificialintellegence #toyota #cybersecurity #cue #robot #basketballrobot #basketball #wethenorth #toyotacanada #abdullatifjameel pic.twitter.com/h8G9hs3LpB — Azhar Khan (@khanazharsemail) March 7, 2020 × How about a basketball match with the robot? Meet Cue, the robot that can shoot basketball with nearly 100% accuracy.#AI #robots #roboticplayer #artificialintelligence #basketball #robotforgames https://t.co/ESxTsitU11 — Avishkaar (@AvishkaarEdu) June 8, 2021 × Toyota CUE Basketball Robot That Never Misses A Free Throw https://t.co/gwnae9MhJM pic.twitter.com/NOTMAfaCvU — gadgetking (@gadgetking) March 19, 2018 × The chances of CUE replacing the US all-star team may not be on the agenda anytime soon but from the looks of it, the US team may have picked a few tips from him during their embarrassing show against France on Sunday. The star-studded US basketball team led by 11-time NBA all-star Kevin Durant were soundly beaten 83-76 by France which was their first defeat since the 2004 Athens Olympics. The determined French team came from behind to overpower the US team as the Americans missed their final nine shots. The French team was down 10 points but they came back fiercely in the final quarter to destabilise the US team which had no answers to French fury. Durant himself had said earlier that the Tokyo Olympics won't be a "cakewalk" as his worst fears came true on Sunday. Fournier top-scored with 28 points for France as the underrated team stunned the United States. The USA will take on Iran in their next game on Wednesday while France will clash against the Czech Republic. (With inputs from Agencies)

Olympics: Watch- Twitter explodes as CUE, the basketball robot, never misses a throw

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine was given the all-clear to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics on Wednesday after being placed into Covid-19 safety protocols this week.

The 26-year-old, who played in all four of the United States' recent exhibition matches in Las Vegas, averaging 10.8 points and 2.5 rebounds, was sidelined on Monday.

USA Basketball said at the time he did not travel with the three-time defending champions to Japan "out of an abundance of caution" after starting Covid-19 health and safety measures.

But it did not say if he contracted the virus or was being kept back for contact tracing.

"US Olympic men's basketball team member Zach LaVine has cleared USA Basketball's health and safety protocols and will join the USA team in Tokyo Thursday afternoon," USA Basketball said in a statement Wednesday, without giving further details.

The US squad has already lost Washington guard Bradley Beal after he was placed into Covid-19 protocols, and center Kevin Love to a calf injury.

The Americans added Denver Nuggets center JaVale McGee and San Antonio Spurs guard Keldon Johnson to replace Beal and Love.

The US squad, which opens its Olympic campaign on Sunday against France, is set to add three more players in coming days following the conclusion of the NBA Finals -- Phoenix guard Devin Booker and Milwaukee's Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton.

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine was given the all-clear to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics on Wednesday after being placed into Covid-19 safety protocols this week.

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine was given the all-clear to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics on Wednesday after being placed into Covid-19 safety protocols this week. The 26-year-old, who played in all four of the United States' recent exhibition matches in Las Vegas, averaging 10.8 points and 2.5 rebounds, was sidelined on Monday. USA Basketball said at the time he did not travel with the three-time defending champions to Japan "out of an abundance of caution" after starting Covid-19 health and safety measures. But it did not say if he contracted the virus or was being kept back for contact tracing. "US Olympic men's basketball team member Zach LaVine has cleared USA Basketball's health and safety protocols and will join the USA team in Tokyo Thursday afternoon," USA Basketball said in a statement Wednesday, without giving further details. The US squad has already lost Washington guard Bradley Beal after he was placed into Covid-19 protocols, and center Kevin Love to a calf injury. The Americans added Denver Nuggets center JaVale McGee and San Antonio Spurs guard Keldon Johnson to replace Beal and Love. The US squad, which opens its Olympic campaign on Sunday against France, is set to add three more players in coming days following the conclusion of the NBA Finals -- Phoenix guard Devin Booker and Milwaukee's Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton.

NBA star Zach LaVine gets Olympics all-clear after Covid-19 scare

The Milwaukee Bucks took a big win against Phoenix Suns in Game 3 to fight their way back into the NBA Finals. The home team would look to replicate that performance even as Suns look to get their act together in Game 4 on Wednesday night (Thursday morning IST).

Giannis Antetokounmpo has stamped his authority of being the most dominant player in the series and the two back-to-back 40-point games may just be the wake-up-and-smell-the-coffee moment Bucks needed. The Greek star is finally flexing every muscle of his body to beat Suns in size.

“He’s doing whatever it takes,” said Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer. “He does a lot and we need a lot from him.” Antetokounmpo has averaged 34.3 points, 14 rebounds, and shot 62% in the series so far, and Bucks couldn’t have asked for a better time to peak for their superstar. Antetokounmpo became the second player in league history to tally 100-plus points and 40-plus rebounds over his first three career Finals games, according to Elias Sports.

But Antetokounmpo still believes his best is yet to come. “I believe that year by year if I’m healthy and I keep working hard, by the grace of God, I’m going to keep getting better as a player,” said Antetokounmpo. “I’m going to be more effective. I’m going to be able to read the plays better. I’m going to be more mature.”

Chris Paul is painfully aware that they need to stop Antetokounmpo from having another highlight game. “We’re going to keep trying to build a wall. He’s coming full speed every play, like a running back coming downhill,” said Paul. “We try to get in his way but he’s able to do get past because he’s surrounded by some really good players. We’re just going to stick with our game plan and see what we can do.”

The two-time MVP knows how to run through the ‘Wall’. “I started seeing the wall, two years ago. Now, it’s about trust. And it's kind of hard, because you want to be effective, you want to get downhill, you want to do everything, but now you also – and you take it personally,” said Antetokounmpo. “I was always a capable passer before the wall was created, which is funny that there’s a defense out there called the Giannis Wall.”

The wall or not, at the back of his tremendous run, Antetokounmpo has climbed to the top in the NBA Finals MVP Ladder. Though his eyes are focused on the larger prize, that of bringing the first NBA title for the Bucks in 50 years and Game 4 will give a clue which way the series is headed.

The Suns will retain home-court advantage even if they lose Game 4, but taking a game in Milwaukee would boost their Championship hopes tenfold and give them a chance to put their hands on the Larry O’Brien at their home-court.

<h6>Watch the Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Thursday at 6:30 AM on Disney+Hotstar, Star Sports Selects, and NBA League Pass</h6>

The Milwaukee Bucks took a big win against Phoenix Suns in Game 3 to fight their way back into the NBA Finals. The home team would look to replicate that performance even as Suns look to get their act together in Game 4 on Wednesday night (Thursday morning IST).

The Milwaukee Bucks took a big win against Phoenix Suns in Game 3 to fight their way back into the NBA Finals. The home team would look to replicate that performance even as Suns look to get their act together in Game 4 on Wednesday night (Thursday morning IST). Giannis Antetokounmpo has stamped his authority of being the most dominant player in the series and the two back-to-back 40-point games may just be the wake-up-and-smell-the-coffee moment Bucks needed. The Greek star is finally flexing every muscle of his body to beat Suns in size. “He’s doing whatever it takes,” said Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer. “He does a lot and we need a lot from him.” Antetokounmpo has averaged 34.3 points, 14 rebounds, and shot 62% in the series so far, and Bucks couldn’t have asked for a better time to peak for their superstar. Antetokounmpo became the second player in league history to tally 100-plus points and 40-plus rebounds over his first three career Finals games, according to Elias Sports. But Antetokounmpo still believes his best is yet to come. “I believe that year by year if I’m healthy and I keep working hard, by the grace of God, I’m going to keep getting better as a player,” said Antetokounmpo. “I’m going to be more effective. I’m going to be able to read the plays better. I’m going to be more mature.” Chris Paul is painfully aware that they need to stop Antetokounmpo from having another highlight game. “We’re going to keep trying to build a wall. He’s coming full speed every play, like a running back coming downhill,” said Paul. “We try to get in his way but he’s able to do get past because he’s surrounded by some really good players. We’re just going to stick with our game plan and see what we can do.” The two-time MVP knows how to run through the ‘Wall’. “I started seeing the wall, two years ago. Now, it’s about trust. And it's kind of hard, because you want to be effective, you want to get downhill, you want to do everything, but now you also – and you take it personally,” said Antetokounmpo. “I was always a capable passer before the wall was created, which is funny that there’s a defense out there called the Giannis Wall.” The wall or not, at the back of his tremendous run, Antetokounmpo has climbed to the top in the NBA Finals MVP Ladder. Though his eyes are focused on the larger prize, that of bringing the first NBA title for the Bucks in 50 years and Game 4 will give a clue which way the series is headed. The Suns will retain home-court advantage even if they lose Game 4, but taking a game in Milwaukee would boost their Championship hopes tenfold and give them a chance to put their hands on the Larry O’Brien at their home-court. Watch the Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Thursday at 6:30 AM on Disney+Hotstar, Star Sports Selects, and NBA League Pass

NBA Finals: Bucks look to climb over ‘Giannis Wall’ to make it even-stevens

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The Phoenix Suns marked their return to the NBA Finals with a 118-105 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1. Making his NBA Finals debut in his 16th&nbsp;season, Chris Paul got 32 points, 16 of which came in the third quarter. Paul became the first player since Michael Jordan to have 30 points and eight assists in a Finals debut.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">&nbsp;

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">“I was just so locked into the game, trying to stay in the moment,” Paul said. “It’s exciting but it’s just one win. I’m focused on the task at hand.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">&nbsp;

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton too went around with business as usual. Booker registered 27 points while Ayton became the first player since Tim Duncan in 1999 to have more than 15 points and 15 rebounds in a Finals debut, blitzing that by having 22 points on 80% shooting with 19 rebounds.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">&nbsp;

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">However, Booker couldn’t help but sing the praises of Paul after the game. “He’s the greatest leader to play this game. There’s no scouting report that says Chris Paul can’t get a bucket.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">&nbsp;

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Outside Paul, there were five other Suns that scored in the double digits, including Ayton and Booker, along with Mikal Bridges (14), Cameron Johnson (10), and Cameron Payne (10). In the first NBA Finals game in Phoenix since Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls won their third straight championship here in Game 6, Suns dominated the proceedings from 3:37 mark of the first quarter and never trailed since then.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">&nbsp;

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">While the Bucks were buoyed with the return of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, they fell short in the game even as the Greek registered 20 points, 17 rebounds, and a game-highlight block on Jae Crowder.&nbsp;Khris Middleton’s team-high 29 points, Brook Lopez’s 17 and Jrue Holiday’s 9 assists in addition to 10 points weren’t good enough for Bucks.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">&nbsp;

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">“We know it’s going to be tough,” Middleton said. “There’s times where we’re going to be down in this series. But this series isn’t over.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">&nbsp;

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Catch Game 2 of the&nbsp;NBA Finals 2021 on 9th&nbsp;July at 6:30 AM IST on Star Sports Select, NBA League Pass, and Disney+ Hotstar

The Phoenix Suns marked their return to the NBA Finals with a 118-105 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1. Making his NBA Finals debut in his 16th season, Chris Paul got 32 points, 16 of which came in the third quarter.

The Phoenix Suns marked their return to the NBA Finals with a 118-105 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1. Making his NBA Finals debut in his 16th season, Chris Paul got 32 points, 16 of which came in the third quarter. Paul became the first player since Michael Jordan to have 30 points and eight assists in a Finals debut. “I was just so locked into the game, trying to stay in the moment,” Paul said. “It’s exciting but it’s just one win. I’m focused on the task at hand.” Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton too went around with business as usual. Booker registered 27 points while Ayton became the first player since Tim Duncan in 1999 to have more than 15 points and 15 rebounds in a Finals debut, blitzing that by having 22 points on 80% shooting with 19 rebounds. However, Booker couldn’t help but sing the praises of Paul after the game. “He’s the greatest leader to play this game. There’s no scouting report that says Chris Paul can’t get a bucket.” Outside Paul, there were five other Suns that scored in the double digits, including Ayton and Booker, along with Mikal Bridges (14), Cameron Johnson (10), and Cameron Payne (10). In the first NBA Finals game in Phoenix since Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls won their third straight championship here in Game 6, Suns dominated the proceedings from 3:37 mark of the first quarter and never trailed since then. While the Bucks were buoyed with the return of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, they fell short in the game even as the Greek registered 20 points, 17 rebounds, and a game-highlight block on Jae Crowder. Khris Middleton’s team-high 29 points, Brook Lopez’s 17 and Jrue Holiday’s 9 assists in addition to 10 points weren’t good enough for Bucks. “We know it’s going to be tough,” Middleton said. “There’s times where we’re going to be down in this series. But this series isn’t over.” Catch Game 2 of the NBA Finals 2021 on 9th July at 6:30 AM IST on Star Sports Select, NBA League Pass, and Disney+ Hotstar

NBA Finals: Chris Paul leads Suns to Game 1 win over Milwaukee Bucks

It didn’t matter that Giannis Antetokounmpo was not playing and it didn’t matter they were on the road. The Milwaukee Bucks just proved that nothing could stop their pursuit to win Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night (Sunday morning IST). At the back of a 118-107 win, the Bucks entered the NBA Finals for the first time in 47 years. History, indeed, in the making.

Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday combined for 59 points, exactly half of the Bucks’ total, as expected. Middleton finished with a game-high 32 points, 23 of which came in the 3rd quarter that eventually proved to be the difference. Holiday added 27 points, nine rebounds and nine assists.

“Just want to win,” Middleton said of his third-quarter play that included 16 points in less than four minutes. “That’s all it is. I don’t care how many points I have. Stats go out the window. Even though I had a great third quarter, I told Jrue (Holiday) I was struggling.”

At half-time, Hawks were trailing by just four points and they opened the second half with a bucket to make it 47-45. At that point, Middleton had more turnovers (6) than points (5). But the two-time All-Star scored 16 straight points and then started a chain of passes to Holiday that put the Bucks up 91-72 at the third quarter.

“Khris caught a streak there in the third quarter, and particularly coming out to start it,” Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer said.&nbsp;“So, I think that was the turning point in the game. We were only up four but then to kind of weather a lot of turnovers in the second quarter and still be up four was I think just an indicator of good defense.”

Star of Game 5, Brook Lopez had 13 points, Pat Connaughton 13 points and Bobby Portis 12.

Returning after almost a week, Trae Young didn’t have enough to keep the series alive for the Hawks. Shooting 4-of-17 from the field, the Hawks’ cornerstone finished with 14 points and nine assists. Cam Reddish was the only Hawks player with a hot hand scoring 21 points on 6-of-7 from 3-point shooting while the rest of the team could only manage 6-of-26.

Despite a disappointing finish, the Hawks branded themselves as a future force. The undeterred Young in the post-game conference said, “This is the beginning. We've accomplished so much this year, but we all understand that this is just the beginning.”

Game 1 of the NBA Finals between the Bucks and the Phoenix Suns tips of Tuesday night (Wednesday morning IST) at Phoenix.

It didn’t matter that Giannis Antetokounmpo was not playing and it didn’t matter they were on the road. The Milwaukee Bucks just proved that nothing could stop their pursuit to win Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night (Sunday morning IST).

It didn’t matter that Giannis Antetokounmpo was not playing and it didn’t matter they were on the road. The Milwaukee Bucks just proved that nothing could stop their pursuit to win Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night (Sunday morning IST). At the back of a 118-107 win, the Bucks entered the NBA Finals for the first time in 47 years. History, indeed, in the making. Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday combined for 59 points, exactly half of the Bucks’ total, as expected. Middleton finished with a game-high 32 points, 23 of which came in the 3rd quarter that eventually proved to be the difference. Holiday added 27 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. “Just want to win,” Middleton said of his third-quarter play that included 16 points in less than four minutes. “That’s all it is. I don’t care how many points I have. Stats go out the window. Even though I had a great third quarter, I told Jrue (Holiday) I was struggling.” At half-time, Hawks were trailing by just four points and they opened the second half with a bucket to make it 47-45. At that point, Middleton had more turnovers (6) than points (5). But the two-time All-Star scored 16 straight points and then started a chain of passes to Holiday that put the Bucks up 91-72 at the third quarter. “Khris caught a streak there in the third quarter, and particularly coming out to start it,” Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer said. “So, I think that was the turning point in the game. We were only up four but then to kind of weather a lot of turnovers in the second quarter and still be up four was I think just an indicator of good defense.” Star of Game 5, Brook Lopez had 13 points, Pat Connaughton 13 points and Bobby Portis 12. Returning after almost a week, Trae Young didn’t have enough to keep the series alive for the Hawks. Shooting 4-of-17 from the field, the Hawks’ cornerstone finished with 14 points and nine assists. Cam Reddish was the only Hawks player with a hot hand scoring 21 points on 6-of-7 from 3-point shooting while the rest of the team could only manage 6-of-26. Despite a disappointing finish, the Hawks branded themselves as a future force. The undeterred Young in the post-game conference said, “This is the beginning. We've accomplished so much this year, but we all understand that this is just the beginning.” Game 1 of the NBA Finals between the Bucks and the Phoenix Suns tips of Tuesday night (Wednesday morning IST) at Phoenix.

Milwaukee Bucks advance to the first NBA Finals since 1974

By winning Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday night, Milwaukee Bucks are closer than Atlanta Hawks to the NBA Finals. Going into Game 6 on Saturday night (Sunday morning IST), the momentum has slightly shifted in favour of the Bucks that found a roster capable of lifting the heavyweight of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s absence.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-bucks-hawks-go-head-to-head-without-their-stars-aligned-395172" hreflang="en">NBA: Bucks, Hawks go head-to-head without their stars aligned</a>

After losing Game 5, Hawks coach Nate McMillan as a matter-of-fact stated Game 6 is do-or-die. But Hawks aren’t strangers to such situations. Game 4 of this series was win-or-go-home in some ways as Hawks were down 2-1, and a loss would mean 3-1 deficit with Game 5 in Milwaukee. And Trae Young was out too. But Hawks soared in Game 4 and how.

The last two games exhibited the prowess of the supporting cast in both teams that missed its star players. The Bucks had four of the five starters scoring 22+ points in their convincing win in Game 5 while the Hawks found Lou Williams, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Clint Capela, and Kevin Huerter contributing to the Game 4 blowout of Bucks.

There is still no update whether Young and Antetokounmpo will step on the hardwood in Game 6. But don’t be surprised if they make the cut as Hawks will need Young’s playmaking skills to stay alive while Bucks will want their Greek superstar to close the deal.

Hawks’ top-scorer in the last game Bogdan Bogdanovic spelled out improvements his team needed going into Game 6. “We have to start better, execution offensively, and game plan and defence. Obviously, turnovers, control the game better, control the ball,” explained Bogdanovic. “Better one-on-one defence, better rotations defensively and box out.”

Brook Lopez, who had a career playoff game, didn’t want to think about being one game away from the NBA Finals. “It's exciting. You know, but it's obviously not done. We need to bottle that energy and effort that we had and do it again in two days,” said Lopez.

A win for Bucks means they will make it to their first NBA Finals in 47 years, while if the Hawks wish to make it to the summit clash for the first time in 60 years, they will have to win two games back-to-back. But for now, they would look to survive the series.

By winning Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday night, Milwaukee Bucks are closer than Atlanta Hawks to the NBA Finals. Going into Game 6 on Saturday night (Sunday morning IST), the momentum has slightly shifted in favour of the Bucks that found a roster capable of lifting the heavyweight of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s absence.

By winning Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday night, Milwaukee Bucks are closer than Atlanta Hawks to the NBA Finals. Going into Game 6 on Saturday night (Sunday morning IST), the momentum has slightly shifted in favour of the Bucks that found a roster capable of lifting the heavyweight of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s absence. ALSO READ: NBA: Bucks, Hawks go head-to-head without their stars aligned After losing Game 5, Hawks coach Nate McMillan as a matter-of-fact stated Game 6 is do-or-die. But Hawks aren’t strangers to such situations. Game 4 of this series was win-or-go-home in some ways as Hawks were down 2-1, and a loss would mean 3-1 deficit with Game 5 in Milwaukee. And Trae Young was out too. But Hawks soared in Game 4 and how. The last two games exhibited the prowess of the supporting cast in both teams that missed its star players. The Bucks had four of the five starters scoring 22+ points in their convincing win in Game 5 while the Hawks found Lou Williams, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Clint Capela, and Kevin Huerter contributing to the Game 4 blowout of Bucks. There is still no update whether Young and Antetokounmpo will step on the hardwood in Game 6. But don’t be surprised if they make the cut as Hawks will need Young’s playmaking skills to stay alive while Bucks will want their Greek superstar to close the deal. Hawks’ top-scorer in the last game Bogdan Bogdanovic spelled out improvements his team needed going into Game 6. “We have to start better, execution offensively, and game plan and defence. Obviously, turnovers, control the game better, control the ball,” explained Bogdanovic. “Better one-on-one defence, better rotations defensively and box out.” Brook Lopez, who had a career playoff game, didn’t want to think about being one game away from the NBA Finals. “It's exciting. You know, but it's obviously not done. We need to bottle that energy and effort that we had and do it again in two days,” said Lopez. A win for Bucks means they will make it to their first NBA Finals in 47 years, while if the Hawks wish to make it to the summit clash for the first time in 60 years, they will have to win two games back-to-back. But for now, they would look to survive the series.

NBA Preview: Bucks look for closure, Hawks eye survival

Brook Lopez stepped up when it mattered the most as Milwaukee Bucks beat Atlanta Hawks 123-112&nbsp;<a>on Thursday night</a>&nbsp;(<a>Friday morning</a>&nbsp;IST) taking a 3-2 lead in the series. With their star player Giannis Antetokounmpo watching from the bench, four of the Bucks’ starters tallied over 22 points putting Hawks one game away from elimination.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-bucks-hawks-go-head-to-head-without-their-stars-aligned-395172">NBA: Bucks, Hawks go head-to-head without their stars aligned</a>

While Lopez led the scoring for Bucks with 33, Khris Middleton got 26 with 13 rebounds and eight assists, Jrue Holiday tallying 25, and Bobby Portis registered a playoff-high of 22. For Hawks, Bogdan Bogdanovic stepped up with 28 points, but Hawks missed the creative spark their star player Trae Young provided them through the Playoffs.

Bucks showed intent and aggression as they led by 20 points at one point in the first quarter. The home team never conceded the lead and the closest Hawks came was at 65-59 at the start of the 3rd&nbsp;quarter.

“They were more physical. They hit us in the mouth, and we just did not recover from that,” said Hawks coach Nate McMillan. “They were more aggressive team from start to&nbsp;<a>finish tonight</a>.”

Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer was happy how Portis played his role of the backup big man in Antetokounmpo’s absence. “He brings that passion for the game, for life. He's fun to be around. I think the crowd can feel that. His teammates can feel that. Coaches can feel it,” said Budenholzer.&nbsp;

As the series moves back to Atlanta, Hawks will be hoping their star player Trae Young is back for must-win Game 6 on Saturday (<a>Sunday morning</a>&nbsp;IST). “We've got to get back home and get ourselves ready to take care of business at home… I expect us to respond. It's do-or-die now,” said McMillan.

Brook Lopez stepped up when it mattered the most as Milwaukee Bucks beat Atlanta Hawks 123-112 on Thursday night (Friday morning IST) taking a 3-2 lead in the series.

Brook Lopez stepped up when it mattered the most as Milwaukee Bucks beat Atlanta Hawks 123-112 on Thursday night (Friday morning IST) taking a 3-2 lead in the series. With their star player Giannis Antetokounmpo watching from the bench, four of the Bucks’ starters tallied over 22 points putting Hawks one game away from elimination. ALSO READ: NBA: Bucks, Hawks go head-to-head without their stars aligned While Lopez led the scoring for Bucks with 33, Khris Middleton got 26 with 13 rebounds and eight assists, Jrue Holiday tallying 25, and Bobby Portis registered a playoff-high of 22. For Hawks, Bogdan Bogdanovic stepped up with 28 points, but Hawks missed the creative spark their star player Trae Young provided them through the Playoffs. Bucks showed intent and aggression as they led by 20 points at one point in the first quarter. The home team never conceded the lead and the closest Hawks came was at 65-59 at the start of the 3rd quarter. “They were more physical. They hit us in the mouth, and we just did not recover from that,” said Hawks coach Nate McMillan. “They were more aggressive team from start to finish tonight.” Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer was happy how Portis played his role of the backup big man in Antetokounmpo’s absence. “He brings that passion for the game, for life. He's fun to be around. I think the crowd can feel that. His teammates can feel that. Coaches can feel it,” said Budenholzer. As the series moves back to Atlanta, Hawks will be hoping their star player Trae Young is back for must-win Game 6 on Saturday (Sunday morning IST). “We've got to get back home and get ourselves ready to take care of business at home… I expect us to respond. It's do-or-die now,” said McMillan.

NBA: Brook Lopez helps Milwaukee Bucks ground Atlanta Hawks

The Eastern Conference Finals is evenly poised as Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks are tied 2-2 ahead of tomorrow’s game at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. However, both teams are likely to miss their biggest weapons.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-kevin-durant-to-lead-usa-mens-basketball-team-394747" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Kevin Durant to lead USA men's basketball team</a>

Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks’ leading scorer, injured his foot in Game 3 and hasn’t played since then. His status for Game 5 is still not clear, but the Hawks showed they can win without him taking Game 4 by 112-88.

Coach Nate McMillan has had an impressive debut with the Hawks and acknowledged that that Game 5 in Milwaukee isn’t going to be easy. “We know it's going to be tough to go into Milwaukee and win there, but we've done that. We're capable of doing that,” said McMillan. “We're going to have to dump everything we have out on that floor again tomorrow.

The Bucks saw their star player Giannis Antetokounmpo leave the floor in the third quarter with a knee injury in Game 4. He has been listed as doubtful for Game 5 at home.

Coach Mike Budenholzer said they put his health and safety first and together make good decisions. “Hopefully there’s a way that we play both with Giannis and without Giannis,” said Budenholzer. “We’ve played games without Giannis, without Khris, without Jrue, without whoever it may be, and so hopefully you have a structure and a system where you can function at a high level on both ends of the court no matter who is playing.”

Hawks won the series opener in Milwaukee, so they know what it takes. A win in Game 5 would take them one step closer to the NBA Finals with Game 6 at home. Bucks may not read too much into it but they surely have a task at hand, fortunately in the comfort of their home.

The game will be live on Star Sports Select and the NBA League Pass at 6:00 AM

The Eastern Conference Finals is evenly poised as Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks are tied 2-2 ahead of tomorrow’s game at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. However, both teams are likely to miss their biggest weapons.

The Eastern Conference Finals is evenly poised as Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks are tied 2-2 ahead of tomorrow’s game at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. However, both teams are likely to miss their biggest weapons. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Kevin Durant to lead USA men's basketball team Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks’ leading scorer, injured his foot in Game 3 and hasn’t played since then. His status for Game 5 is still not clear, but the Hawks showed they can win without him taking Game 4 by 112-88. Coach Nate McMillan has had an impressive debut with the Hawks and acknowledged that that Game 5 in Milwaukee isn’t going to be easy. “We know it's going to be tough to go into Milwaukee and win there, but we've done that. We're capable of doing that,” said McMillan. “We're going to have to dump everything we have out on that floor again tomorrow. The Bucks saw their star player Giannis Antetokounmpo leave the floor in the third quarter with a knee injury in Game 4. He has been listed as doubtful for Game 5 at home. Coach Mike Budenholzer said they put his health and safety first and together make good decisions. “Hopefully there’s a way that we play both with Giannis and without Giannis,” said Budenholzer. “We’ve played games without Giannis, without Khris, without Jrue, without whoever it may be, and so hopefully you have a structure and a system where you can function at a high level on both ends of the court no matter who is playing.” Hawks won the series opener in Milwaukee, so they know what it takes. A win in Game 5 would take them one step closer to the NBA Finals with Game 6 at home. Bucks may not read too much into it but they surely have a task at hand, fortunately in the comfort of their home. The game will be live on Star Sports Select and the NBA League Pass at 6:00 AM

NBA: Bucks, Hawks go head-to-head without their stars aligned

James Harden erupted for a 34-point triple-double as the Brooklyn Nets wrapped up their NBA Eastern Conference playoff series over the Boston Celtics with a 123-109 victory on Tuesday.

Harden added 10 rebounds and 10 assists while Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant also weighed in with big contributions as the Nets completed a 4-1 victory in the best-of-seven series.

Second seeds Brooklyn will now face the third-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in the conference semi-finals.

On Tuesday's evidence at the Barclays Center, Brooklyn will head into the semi-finals brimming with confidence after signs that their big three of Harden, Irving and Durant are starting to click just at the right time.

While Harden led the scoring for Brooklyn, both Irving and Durant came up big as the Nets accelerated away in the fourth quarter after the Celtics had pulled to within seven points at the end of the third period.

Irving finished with 25 points while Durant added 24 points as Brooklyn piled on 37 points in a fourth-quarter scoring blitz.

"We've dealt with so much adversity through the regular season, it felt good to get some meaningful games in," Harden said. "It's time to lock in now."

"They're a tough Boston team. They were down a few players. But they kept fighting and fighting and made it tough for us.

"We're a special group, especially when we lock in defensively. If we can get three or four stops in a row -- we can get it going offensively because we've got that much firepower."

Boston's scorers were led by Jayson Tatum, who despite being clearly short of full fitness finished with 32 points. French international Evan Fournier finished with 18 points while Romeo Langford added 17.

James Harden erupted for a 34-point triple-double as the Brooklyn Nets wrapped up their NBA Eastern Conference playoff series over the Boston Celtics with a 123-109 victory on Tuesday.

James Harden erupted for a 34-point triple-double as the Brooklyn Nets wrapped up their NBA Eastern Conference playoff series over the Boston Celtics with a 123-109 victory on Tuesday. Harden added 10 rebounds and 10 assists while Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant also weighed in with big contributions as the Nets completed a 4-1 victory in the best-of-seven series. Second seeds Brooklyn will now face the third-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in the conference semi-finals. On Tuesday's evidence at the Barclays Center, Brooklyn will head into the semi-finals brimming with confidence after signs that their big three of Harden, Irving and Durant are starting to click just at the right time. While Harden led the scoring for Brooklyn, both Irving and Durant came up big as the Nets accelerated away in the fourth quarter after the Celtics had pulled to within seven points at the end of the third period. Irving finished with 25 points while Durant added 24 points as Brooklyn piled on 37 points in a fourth-quarter scoring blitz. "We've dealt with so much adversity through the regular season, it felt good to get some meaningful games in," Harden said. "It's time to lock in now." "They're a tough Boston team. They were down a few players. But they kept fighting and fighting and made it tough for us. "We're a special group, especially when we lock in defensively. If we can get three or four stops in a row -- we can get it going offensively because we've got that much firepower." Boston's scorers were led by Jayson Tatum, who despite being clearly short of full fitness finished with 32 points. French international Evan Fournier finished with 18 points while Romeo Langford added 17.

Basketball: James Harden fires as 'Big Three' lead Nets past Celtics

Stephen Curry scored 46 points and claimed his second NBA scoring title as the Golden State Warriors won their sixth straight by beating the Memphis Grizzlies 113-101 on Sunday in San Francisco.

Curry finished the regular season with a 32.0-point scoring average, claiming the league title over Washington's Bradley Beal who scored 25 points earlier Sunday to finish at 31.3 points per game.

"I had a lot of good looks all night," Curry said. "We were in sync. The guys set great screens for me."

The 33-year old Curry won his first scoring title in 2016. He and Michael Jordan are the only NBA players to win a scoring title after turning 33.

Curry also joins Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Wilt Chamberlain as the only players with multiple scoring titles, most valuable players awards and NBA championships.

"He's like the Picasso of our time," said teammate Juan Toscano-Anderson. "You can't have a knock on him. He's the best doing it right now."

Curry scored 17 of his game-high 46 points in the third quarter as the Warriors seized the Western Conference number eight spot in this week's play-in tournament.

Golden State will now play on Wednesday, at either Portland or the&nbsp;Los Angeles Lakers, both of whom took the court later Sunday.

"He's never been better, I can say that," coach Steve Kerr said.

Curry got plenty of help from his supporting cast, including Jordan Poole who halted a Grizzlies rally with a late three pointer.

The Warriors outscored the Grizzlies 45-18 from three-point range and outshot their opponents 49.4 percent to 43.5 overall.

"It is just confidence and the expectation and ability to know they are going to have opportunities," said Curry of his teammates. "If I get a lot of attention we move the ball, they are out there to make plays.&nbsp;

"Everybody has to be confident they are going to make an impact on both ends of the floor. We are going to need that."

Andrew Wiggins finished with 21-points and 10-rebounds, while Draymond Green just missed a triple-double with 14 points, nine rebounds and a game-high-tying nine assists. Kevon Looney a team-high 11 rebounds for the Warriors.

Jonas Valanciunas scored 29 points and delivered 16 rebounds for Memphis, who had all five starters in double figures.

Brooks finished with 18 points, while Ja Morant tallied 16 and nine assists for the Grizzlies, who trailed 86-69 at the end of the third quarter.

Stephen Curry scored 46 points and claimed his second NBA scoring title as the Golden State Warriors won their sixth straight by beating the Memphis Grizzlies 113-101 on Sunday in San Francisco.

Stephen Curry scored 46 points and claimed his second NBA scoring title as the Golden State Warriors won their sixth straight by beating the Memphis Grizzlies 113-101 on Sunday in San Francisco. Curry finished the regular season with a 32.0-point scoring average, claiming the league title over Washington's Bradley Beal who scored 25 points earlier Sunday to finish at 31.3 points per game. "I had a lot of good looks all night," Curry said. "We were in sync. The guys set great screens for me." The 33-year old Curry won his first scoring title in 2016. He and Michael Jordan are the only NBA players to win a scoring title after turning 33. Curry also joins Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Wilt Chamberlain as the only players with multiple scoring titles, most valuable players awards and NBA championships. "He's like the Picasso of our time," said teammate Juan Toscano-Anderson. "You can't have a knock on him. He's the best doing it right now." Curry scored 17 of his game-high 46 points in the third quarter as the Warriors seized the Western Conference number eight spot in this week's play-in tournament. Golden State will now play on Wednesday, at either Portland or the Los Angeles Lakers, both of whom took the court later Sunday. "He's never been better, I can say that," coach Steve Kerr said. Curry got plenty of help from his supporting cast, including Jordan Poole who halted a Grizzlies rally with a late three pointer. The Warriors outscored the Grizzlies 45-18 from three-point range and outshot their opponents 49.4 percent to 43.5 overall. "It is just confidence and the expectation and ability to know they are going to have opportunities," said Curry of his teammates. "If I get a lot of attention we move the ball, they are out there to make plays. "Everybody has to be confident they are going to make an impact on both ends of the floor. We are going to need that." Andrew Wiggins finished with 21-points and 10-rebounds, while Draymond Green just missed a triple-double with 14 points, nine rebounds and a game-high-tying nine assists. Kevon Looney a team-high 11 rebounds for the Warriors. Jonas Valanciunas scored 29 points and delivered 16 rebounds for Memphis, who had all five starters in double figures. Brooks finished with 18 points, while Ja Morant tallied 16 and nine assists for the Grizzlies, who trailed 86-69 at the end of the third quarter.

Curry captures second NBA scoring title, Warriors win sixth straight

Rugball, a Russian-invented sport that combines combines elements of basketball, wrestling and rugby, hopes to go mainstream after a sudden surge of public attention.

Basketball, rugby and wrestling combined in new sport in Russia

Basketball fans eagerly lined up on Tuesday (February 23) to watch the New York Knicks take on the Warriors, as New York City welcomed ticketholders at live sports events for the first time since the pandemic brought sports to a halt nearly a year ago.

'It feels amazing' - New York City arenas open doors to elated fans

With less than 24 hours away from a career-defining moment, LaMelo Ball bottled his excitement for the D-Day. The brevity of his answers to any and all questions didn’t give away anything until he was asked about why he should be the #1 pick. “I was born to be #1 pick,” asserted Ball. “Being the #1 pick definitely holds a lot to me.”

The youngest of the Ball brothers has been a journeyman even before getting drafted into the NBA. Having played professionally in the Australian NBL, Lithuania, competing at the SPIRE Institute in Ohio after leaving Chino Hills (Calif.) High School as a junior, Ball feels all the stops helped him become a better player. “I feel like when you go overseas, it’s a whole new different style of play; something that you can just add to the arsenal,” Ball said. “So, I feel like it helped me in that aspect.”

Ask him if it was a gamble to not have college experience and play professionally, Ball shrugs it off. “You could say it was a gamble, but for me, I already figured out what was gonna happen, me going there, what I was getting myself into,” said Ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-announces-structure-and-format-for-2020-21-season-343846" hreflang="en">NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season</a>

In Detroit since March for Draft training, Ball conducted workouts with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons. The Timberwolves, Warriors and Hornets own the top three picks.

But his father LaVar Ball has other ideas as he wants LaMelo to play for the New York Knicks or Pistons. “He probably just likes the big market,” the 6ft 7in player said. “He raised me, taught me the game pretty much; everything I knew when I was little. So, I appreciate all that. It’s my pops, so he’s always gonna be involved.”

Ball’s brother Lonzo is a guard with the New Orleans Pelicans and was also the second pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. So, Ball knows the weight of expectations on his shoulder but isn’t too worried about it. “I am ok. No pressure, it is just basketball. I am cool,” said Ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-2020-draft-history-stats-and-all-the-numbers-you-need-to-know-343844" hreflang="en">NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know</a>

All this might change a little bit though minutes after his name is announced. But Ball is ready to play the role that comes with being one of the most spoken about the prospect. “Pretty much whenever I get there, and [whatever] the coach asks me to do, I’m gonna do,” he said of his role with the team that drafts him.

For now, his typical day is about waking up, going to work out and shoot, get some breakfast, come back and stretch, go to the gym at around 6 PM, come back, eat while watching a movie and repeat it the next day. This routine may never be the same again after the 2020 NBA Draft.

2020 NBA DRAFT ORDER

1. Minnesota 2. Golden State 3. Charlotte 4. Chicago 5. Cleveland 6. Atlanta 7. Detroit 8. New York 9. Washington 10. Phoenix 11. San Antonio 12. Sacramento 13. New Orleans 14. Boston (from Memphis) 15. Orlando 16. Portland 17. Minnesota (from Brooklyn via Atlanta) 18. Dallas 19. Brooklyn (from Philadelphia via LA Clippers) 20. Miami 21. Philadelphia (from OKC via Orlando and Philadelphia) 22. Denver (from Houston) 23. Utah 24. Milwaukee (from Indiana) 25. Oklahoma City (from Denver) 26. Boston 27. New York (from LA Clippers) 28. Los Angeles Lakers 29. Toronto 30. Boston (from Milwaukee via Phoenix) 31. Dallas (from Golden State) 32. Charlotte (from Cleveland via LA Clippers and Orlando) 33. Minnesota 34. Philadelphia (from Atlanta) 35. Sacramento (from Detroit via Phoenix) 36. Philadelphia (from New York) 37. Washington (from Chicago) 38. New York (from Charlotte) 39. New Orleans (from Washington via Milwaukee) 40. Memphis (from Phoenix) 41. San Antonio 42. New Orleans 43. Sacramento 44. Chicago (from Memphis) 45. Orlando 46. Portland 47. Boston (from Brooklyn via Charlotte, Orlando and Philadelphia) 48. Golden State (from Dallas via Philadelphia) 49. Philadelphia 50. Atlanta (from Miami via Sacramento, Cleveland and Boston) 51. Golden State (from Utah via Dallas, Detroit and Cleveland) 52. Sacramento (from Houston) 53. Oklahoma City 54. Indiana 55. Brooklyn (from Denver) 56. Charlotte (from Boston) 57. LA Clippers 58. Philadelphia (from Los Angeles Lakers via Orlando) 59. Toronto 60. New Orleans (from Milwaukee)

With less than 24 hours away from a career-defining moment, LaMelo Ball bottled his excitement for the D-Day. The brevity of his answers to any and all questions didn’t give away anything until he was asked about why he should be the #1 pick.

With less than 24 hours away from a career-defining moment, LaMelo Ball bottled his excitement for the D-Day. The brevity of his answers to any and all questions didn’t give away anything until he was asked about why he should be the #1 pick. “I was born to be #1 pick,” asserted Ball. “Being the #1 pick definitely holds a lot to me.” The youngest of the Ball brothers has been a journeyman even before getting drafted into the NBA. Having played professionally in the Australian NBL, Lithuania, competing at the SPIRE Institute in Ohio after leaving Chino Hills (Calif.) High School as a junior, Ball feels all the stops helped him become a better player. “I feel like when you go overseas, it’s a whole new different style of play; something that you can just add to the arsenal,” Ball said. “So, I feel like it helped me in that aspect.” Ask him if it was a gamble to not have college experience and play professionally, Ball shrugs it off. “You could say it was a gamble, but for me, I already figured out what was gonna happen, me going there, what I was getting myself into,” said Ball. ALSO READ: NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season In Detroit since March for Draft training, Ball conducted workouts with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons. The Timberwolves, Warriors and Hornets own the top three picks. But his father LaVar Ball has other ideas as he wants LaMelo to play for the New York Knicks or Pistons. “He probably just likes the big market,” the 6ft 7in player said. “He raised me, taught me the game pretty much; everything I knew when I was little. So, I appreciate all that. It’s my pops, so he’s always gonna be involved.” Ball’s brother Lonzo is a guard with the New Orleans Pelicans and was also the second pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. So, Ball knows the weight of expectations on his shoulder but isn’t too worried about it. “I am ok. No pressure, it is just basketball. I am cool,” said Ball. ALSO READ: NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know All this might change a little bit though minutes after his name is announced. But Ball is ready to play the role that comes with being one of the most spoken about the prospect. “Pretty much whenever I get there, and [whatever] the coach asks me to do, I’m gonna do,” he said of his role with the team that drafts him. For now, his typical day is about waking up, going to work out and shoot, get some breakfast, come back and stretch, go to the gym at around 6 PM, come back, eat while watching a movie and repeat it the next day. This routine may never be the same again after the 2020 NBA Draft. 2020 NBA DRAFT ORDER 1. Minnesota 2. Golden State 3. Charlotte 4. Chicago 5. Cleveland 6. Atlanta 7. Detroit 8. New York 9. Washington 10. Phoenix 11. San Antonio 12. Sacramento 13. New Orleans 14. Boston (from Memphis) 15. Orlando 16. Portland 17. Minnesota (from Brooklyn via Atlanta) 18. Dallas 19. Brooklyn (from Philadelphia via LA Clippers) 20. Miami 21. Philadelphia (from OKC via Orlando and Philadelphia) 22. Denver (from Houston) 23. Utah 24. Milwaukee (from Indiana) 25. Oklahoma City (from Denver) 26. Boston 27. New York (from LA Clippers) 28. Los Angeles Lakers 29. Toronto 30. Boston (from Milwaukee via Phoenix) 31. Dallas (from Golden State) 32. Charlotte (from Cleveland via LA Clippers and Orlando) 33. Minnesota 34. Philadelphia (from Atlanta) 35. Sacramento (from Detroit via Phoenix) 36. Philadelphia (from New York) 37. Washington (from Chicago) 38. New York (from Charlotte) 39. New Orleans (from Washington via Milwaukee) 40. Memphis (from Phoenix) 41. San Antonio 42. New Orleans 43. Sacramento 44. Chicago (from Memphis) 45. Orlando 46. Portland 47. Boston (from Brooklyn via Charlotte, Orlando and Philadelphia) 48. Golden State (from Dallas via Philadelphia) 49. Philadelphia 50. Atlanta (from Miami via Sacramento, Cleveland and Boston) 51. Golden State (from Utah via Dallas, Detroit and Cleveland) 52. Sacramento (from Houston) 53. Oklahoma City 54. Indiana 55. Brooklyn (from Denver) 56. Charlotte (from Boston) 57. LA Clippers 58. Philadelphia (from Los Angeles Lakers via Orlando) 59. Toronto 60. New Orleans (from Milwaukee)

I was born to be the #1 pick: LaMelo Ball

Former US President Barack Obama has been campaigning for the Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden. During his drive-in campaign rally at the Northwestern High School in Michigan, Obama showed off his basketball skills.&nbsp;

The video was shared by the former president on Twitter. In the video, Obama was seen scoring a perfect three-pointer before going out of high school. After showing off his skills, he added: "That’s what I do."&nbsp;

Here's the video:&nbsp;

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Shoot your shot. <a href="https://t.co/XdZz4dh82T">https://t.co/XdZz4dh82T</a> <a href="https://t.co/elpBmzu6hV">pic.twitter.com/elpBmzu6hV</a>
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1322679224692604928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The netizens went crazy on social media and gave apt reaction to Obama's skills.

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Awesome 😎 <a href="https://t.co/EOD9WtPm5Q">pic.twitter.com/EOD9WtPm5Q</a>
— Laurie/Simba Cat (@llorenz1) <a href="https://twitter.com/llorenz1/status/1322679423829741569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Here is mine 😁 <a href="https://t.co/qrbWmD9tCd">pic.twitter.com/qrbWmD9tCd</a>
— i 😎Troll 🇺🇸🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇮🇳 (@trollBigotry) <a href="https://twitter.com/trollBigotry/status/1322679462652203008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/22iVKWuyHy">pic.twitter.com/22iVKWuyHy</a>
— Banksta (@banksta62) <a href="https://twitter.com/banksta62/status/1322679522446118912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He shoots, he scores. So very cool.
— Liz Jarvis (@LizJarvisUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/LizJarvisUK/status/1322679805494611969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The video has garnered over 9 million views and thousands of likes. Many, including Lakers star LeBron James, reacted to the video.&nbsp;

James re-tweeted the video and said: "Now you just showing out now my friend!! That’s what you do huh?? Ok ok I see. All cash!"

Former US President Barack Obama has been campaigning for the Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden. During his drive-in campaign rally at the Northwestern High School in Michigan, Obama showed off his basketball skills.

Former US President Barack Obama has been campaigning for the Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden. During his drive-in campaign rally at the Northwestern High School in Michigan, Obama showed off his basketball skills. The video was shared by the former president on Twitter. In the video, Obama was seen scoring a perfect three-pointer before going out of high school. After showing off his skills, he added: "That’s what I do." Here's the video: Shoot your shot. https://t.co/XdZz4dh82T pic.twitter.com/elpBmzu6hV — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) October 31, 2020 × The netizens went crazy on social media and gave apt reaction to Obama's skills. Awesome 😎 pic.twitter.com/EOD9WtPm5Q — Laurie/Simba Cat (@llorenz1) October 31, 2020 × Here is mine 😁 pic.twitter.com/qrbWmD9tCd — i 😎Troll 🇺🇸🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇮🇳 (@trollBigotry) October 31, 2020 × pic.twitter.com/22iVKWuyHy — Banksta (@banksta62) October 31, 2020 × He shoots, he scores. So very cool. — Liz Jarvis (@LizJarvisUK) October 31, 2020 × The video has garnered over 9 million views and thousands of likes. Many, including Lakers star LeBron James, reacted to the video. James re-tweeted the video and said: "Now you just showing out now my friend!! That’s what you do huh?? Ok ok I see. All cash!"

'That's what I do': Netizens go crazy as Barack Obama shows off his basketball skills

Boston Celtics defeated reigning NBA champions Toronto Raptors 111-89 on Monday pushing them to the brink of elimination in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-eyes-return-as-players-owners-discuss-action-on-racial-injustice-323611" hreflang="en">NBA eyes return as players, owners discuss action on racial injustice</a>

The best-of-seven series between both the teams now stands at 3-2, with Celtics in lead.&nbsp;

They dominated defensively to hold the Raptors to 20 per cent shooting in the first quarter and got a lead of 25-11 in the opening period.&nbsp;

In the second quarter, the Celtics scored 37 points that two more than the Raptors managed in all of the first half.

By the halftime, the Raptors trailed by 62-35. Despite a noticeable uptick of energy to start the third, there was too much ground to make up.

"The job isn't done," said Jaylen Brown, who led all scorers with 27 points. He grabbed six rebounds and made three of Boston's five steals. "We've got to come out and play with the same intensity."

Kemba Walker was the star of the match as he added 21 points, four rebounds and seven assists, Jayson Tatum delivered 18 points, and 10 rebounds, Daniel Theis and reserve Brad Wanamaker scored 15 apiece, and Marcus Smart Chipped in 12 for the Celtics.

Fred VeanVleet scored the most (18 points) for the Raptors, followed by &nbsp;Kyle Lowry and Pascal Siakam, who scored 10 apiece.

"Our offense, we didn't make shots, we weren't aggressive enough," Lowry said. "They were very comfortable from the jump. We weren't as assertive as we should have been."

Lowry denied that the Raptors were feeling the effects of the every-other-day schedule in the NBA's quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida.

"Nope," he said when asked if fatigue played a part. "We just didn't play well enough."

(Inputs from AFP)

Boston Celtics defeated reigning NBA champions Toronto Raptors 111-89 on Monday pushing them to the brink of elimination in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. Also read: NBA eyes return as players, owners discuss action on racial injustice The best-of-seven series between both the teams now stands at 3-2, with Celtics in lead.

Boston Celtics defeated reigning NBA champions Toronto Raptors 111-89 on Monday pushing them to the brink of elimination in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. Also read: NBA eyes return as players, owners discuss action on racial injustice The best-of-seven series between both the teams now stands at 3-2, with Celtics in lead. They dominated defensively to hold the Raptors to 20 per cent shooting in the first quarter and got a lead of 25-11 in the opening period. In the second quarter, the Celtics scored 37 points that two more than the Raptors managed in all of the first half. By the halftime, the Raptors trailed by 62-35. Despite a noticeable uptick of energy to start the third, there was too much ground to make up. "The job isn't done," said Jaylen Brown, who led all scorers with 27 points. He grabbed six rebounds and made three of Boston's five steals. "We've got to come out and play with the same intensity." Kemba Walker was the star of the match as he added 21 points, four rebounds and seven assists, Jayson Tatum delivered 18 points, and 10 rebounds, Daniel Theis and reserve Brad Wanamaker scored 15 apiece, and Marcus Smart Chipped in 12 for the Celtics. Fred VeanVleet scored the most (18 points) for the Raptors, followed by Kyle Lowry and Pascal Siakam, who scored 10 apiece. "Our offense, we didn't make shots, we weren't aggressive enough," Lowry said. "They were very comfortable from the jump. We weren't as assertive as we should have been." Lowry denied that the Raptors were feeling the effects of the every-other-day schedule in the NBA's quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida. "Nope," he said when asked if fatigue played a part. "We just didn't play well enough." (Inputs from AFP)

Boston Celtics' dominate NBA champions Toronto Raptors as they win 111-89

NBA set to relaunch its 2019-2020 season: Here are few key questions!

The NBA says that players who decline to play in the restarted season in Florida next month must let their clubs know by June 24 and will face having their pay docked by up to 14 games.

ESPN.com reported that the NBA Players Association informed its members on Tuesday that they have until June 24 to make a decision whether to take part in the games at the Walt Disney World resort in Orlando, Florida.

The owners and the union have worked out a deal which would see any player who decides to sit out the rest of the season have their compensation cut for each game skipped up to a maximum of 14 games.

"It may not be for everyone," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said of the league's return-to-play plan.&nbsp;

"It will entail enormous sacrifice -- of those players and for everyone involved -- the coaches, the referees."

Several NBA players, including Los Angeles Lakers Dwight Howard, have bypassed the players' union and voiced their opposition to resuming the season as a protest against racial discrimination and police brutality in the United States.

The Lakers backup center Howard told CNN that now is not the time to resume basketball in light of the protests that broke out across the US following the death of George Floyd at the hands of a white Minnesota police officer last month.

Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving also reportedly lobbied fellow players on Friday to sit out the scheduled resumption of play as a protest against racism.

Floyd, a black man, died May 25 after a veteran police officer kneeled on his neck for nearly nine minutes. His death sparked global protests, some of which turned violent.&nbsp;

Sports teams throughout the country have spoken out publicly against racism, with several teams taking part in the demonstrations.

Silver said players who decide to miss the rest of the season will not be considered "in breach of contract."

Some NBA players could be given exemptions from the pay cuts if they can show they are at a higher risk for the new coronavirus.&nbsp;

Silver argued that Orlando would be an ideal opportunity for the players to get together in a tight-knit setting and work on social justice issues and police reform. &nbsp;

"For us, we feel this is what we do. We put on NBA basketball," the commissioner said. "For the country, it will be respite from enormous difficulties people are dealing with in their lives right now.&nbsp;

"I also think in terms of the social justice issues, it will be an opportunity for NBA players and the greater community to draw attention to these issues.&nbsp;

"Because the world's attention will be on the NBA in Orlando, Florida, if we’re able to pull this off."

The NBA hasn't played since March 11 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Training camp is set to be held July 9-29 before the season restarts July 30.&nbsp;

The NBA says that players who decline to play in the restarted season in Florida next month must let their clubs know by June 24 and will face having their pay docked by up to 14 games.

The NBA says that players who decline to play in the restarted season in Florida next month must let their clubs know by June 24 and will face having their pay docked by up to 14 games. ESPN.com reported that the NBA Players Association informed its members on Tuesday that they have until June 24 to make a decision whether to take part in the games at the Walt Disney World resort in Orlando, Florida. The owners and the union have worked out a deal which would see any player who decides to sit out the rest of the season have their compensation cut for each game skipped up to a maximum of 14 games. "It may not be for everyone," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said of the league's return-to-play plan. "It will entail enormous sacrifice -- of those players and for everyone involved -- the coaches, the referees." Several NBA players, including Los Angeles Lakers Dwight Howard, have bypassed the players' union and voiced their opposition to resuming the season as a protest against racial discrimination and police brutality in the United States. The Lakers backup center Howard told CNN that now is not the time to resume basketball in light of the protests that broke out across the US following the death of George Floyd at the hands of a white Minnesota police officer last month. Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving also reportedly lobbied fellow players on Friday to sit out the scheduled resumption of play as a protest against racism. Floyd, a black man, died May 25 after a veteran police officer kneeled on his neck for nearly nine minutes. His death sparked global protests, some of which turned violent. Sports teams throughout the country have spoken out publicly against racism, with several teams taking part in the demonstrations. Silver said players who decide to miss the rest of the season will not be considered "in breach of contract." Some NBA players could be given exemptions from the pay cuts if they can show they are at a higher risk for the new coronavirus. Silver argued that Orlando would be an ideal opportunity for the players to get together in a tight-knit setting and work on social justice issues and police reform. "For us, we feel this is what we do. We put on NBA basketball," the commissioner said. "For the country, it will be respite from enormous difficulties people are dealing with in their lives right now. "I also think in terms of the social justice issues, it will be an opportunity for NBA players and the greater community to draw attention to these issues. "Because the world's attention will be on the NBA in Orlando, Florida, if we’re able to pull this off." The NBA hasn't played since March 11 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Training camp is set to be held July 9-29 before the season restarts July 30.

NBA players who skip the restart will have their pay docked

The growing outbreak of the novel coronavirus is slowly grasping all the sporting events around the world. The latest league to get suspended in the NBA. The basketball world was shocked when United States' world-famous basketball league NBA got suspended indefinitely after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert was tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-italian-sporting-events-including-serie-a-suspended-due-to-coronavirus-outbreak-285360" hreflang="en">All Italian sporting events including Serie A suspended due to coronavirus outbreak</a>

This happened just before the start of Oklahoma City Thunder versus Utah Jazz game. Teams were on the court and were ready to tip-off when the officials had a conversation and asked the players to get back in the locker rooms. It later was revealed that one of the Utah Jazz players was tested positive for coronavirus.

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NBA has suspended the season in the wake of a player testing positive for coronavirus. <a href="https://t.co/Dpqp3VA7TK">pic.twitter.com/Dpqp3VA7TK</a>
— Howard Beck (@HowardBeck) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardBeck/status/1237914340344422400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The league then confirmed the season had been suspended indefinitely while it considered how to deal with the pandemic.

"The NBA is suspending gameplay following the conclusion of tonight’s schedule of games until further notice,” the league said in a statement. “The NBA will use this hiatus to determine next steps for moving forward regarding the coronavirus pandemic."

Reportedly, the two-time defensive player of the year (Rudy Gobert) is doing well and is under the care of health officials in the Oklahoma City.

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Was just on the phone with Rudy. He is doing good man. Lets not panick everyone. Love you all❤️
— Evan Fournier (@EvanFourmizz) <a href="https://twitter.com/EvanFourmizz/status/1237928886501101574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to the ESPN, players of Jazz and Thunder were quarantined in the arena itself, other teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons and the reigning NBA champion Toronto Raptors have been asked to self-quarantine themselves.

The growing outbreak of the novel coronavirus is slowly grasping all the sporting events around the world. The latest league to get suspended in the NBA. The basketball world was shocked when United States' world-famous basketball league NBA got suspended indefinitely after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert was tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

The growing outbreak of the novel coronavirus is slowly grasping all the sporting events around the world. The latest league to get suspended in the NBA. The basketball world was shocked when United States' world-famous basketball league NBA got suspended indefinitely after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert was tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Also read: All Italian sporting events including Serie A suspended due to coronavirus outbreak This happened just before the start of Oklahoma City Thunder versus Utah Jazz game. Teams were on the court and were ready to tip-off when the officials had a conversation and asked the players to get back in the locker rooms. It later was revealed that one of the Utah Jazz players was tested positive for coronavirus. NBA has suspended the season in the wake of a player testing positive for coronavirus. pic.twitter.com/Dpqp3VA7TK — Howard Beck (@HowardBeck) March 12, 2020 × The league then confirmed the season had been suspended indefinitely while it considered how to deal with the pandemic. "The NBA is suspending gameplay following the conclusion of tonight’s schedule of games until further notice,” the league said in a statement. “The NBA will use this hiatus to determine next steps for moving forward regarding the coronavirus pandemic." Reportedly, the two-time defensive player of the year (Rudy Gobert) is doing well and is under the care of health officials in the Oklahoma City. Was just on the phone with Rudy. He is doing good man. Lets not panick everyone. Love you all❤️ — Evan Fournier (@EvanFourmizz) March 12, 2020 × According to the ESPN, players of Jazz and Thunder were quarantined in the arena itself, other teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons and the reigning NBA champion Toronto Raptors have been asked to self-quarantine themselves.

NBA: Basketball league gets suspended after player tests positive for coronavirus

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