Teary-eyed speakers shared their tales about Kobe Bryant at his memorial ceremony called 'celebration of life' in Staples Center on Monday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kobe-bryant-honoured-at-naacp-image-awards-2020-with-an-empty-basketball-court-282290">Kobe Bryant honoured at NAACP Image Awards 2020 with an empty basketball court</a>

Jimmy Kimmel hosted the ceremony.&nbsp;

The star-studded crowd included Lakers legends such as Jerry West, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson and Pau Gasol. NBA commissioner Adam Silver joined by NBA legend Michael Jordan, Phil Jackson and dozens of current NBA players, including Stephen Curry, James Harden, Kyrie Irving and Russell Westbrook. Hollywood A-listers Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West were also in attendance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kobe-bryants-widow-vanessa-bryant-refuses-to-accept-death-of-her-husband-and-daughter-279982">Kobe Bryant's widow Vanessa Bryant 'refuses to accept' death of her husband and daughter</a>

Nearly 20,000 fans gathered at the Staples Center for the memorial of Kobe Bryant and Gianna Bryant.&nbsp;

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2 ♾ 24 <a href="https://t.co/s2wIYwVWfA">pic.twitter.com/s2wIYwVWfA</a>
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Vanessa Bryant called Kobe "the MVP of girl dads".&nbsp;

Vanessa could not hold her tears back and said: "God knew they couldn't be on this earth without each other, He had to bring them home to have them together. Babe, you take care of our Gigi."

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Always &amp; Forever the House That Kobe Built <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MambaForvever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MambaForvever</a> <a href="https://t.co/jgYl1EGH18">pic.twitter.com/jgYl1EGH18</a>
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On her relationship with Kobe, Vanessa said: "He was the most amazing husband, Kobe loved me more than I could ever express or put into words. I was the fire. He was ice. Vice versa at times. ... He was my everything."

Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan had tears in his eyes while talking about Bryant, he said: "He wanted to be the best basketball player that he could be. And as I got to know him, I wanted to be the best big brother that I could be."

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Jordan concluded the speech by saying: "When Kobe died, a piece of me died."

Shaquille O'Neal compared his relationship with Kobe to John Lennon and Paul McCartney. He said: “Kobe and I have a very complex relationship throughout the years. But it’s like another leadership duo in John Lennon and Paul McCartney, whose creative rivalry led to some of the greatest music of all time,”.&nbsp;

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The one and only Shaq reflects on his time spent with Kobe and the Bryant family. <a href="https://t.co/0Ef0gguwIm">pic.twitter.com/0Ef0gguwIm</a>
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“Kobe and I pushed one another to play some of the greatest basketball of all time and I am proud that no other team has accomplished what the three-peat Lakers have done since the Shaq and Kobe Lakers did it. Sometimes like immature kids, we argued, we fought.. Folks thought we were on bad terms. But when the cameras are turned off, he and I would throw a wink at each other and say, ‘Let’s go whoop some…'” he added.&nbsp;

The memorial service ended with Nat King Cole's song Unforgettable as the crowd started chanting "Kobe, Kobe."

&nbsp; &nbsp;

Teary-eyed speakers shared their tales about Kobe Bryant at his memorial ceremony called 'celebration of life' in Staples Center on Monday. Also read: Kobe Bryant honoured at NAACP Image Awards 2020 with an empty basketball court Jimmy Kimmel hosted the ceremony.

Teary-eyed speakers shared their tales about Kobe Bryant at his memorial ceremony called 'celebration of life' in Staples Center on Monday. Also read: Kobe Bryant honoured at NAACP Image Awards 2020 with an empty basketball court Jimmy Kimmel hosted the ceremony. The star-studded crowd included Lakers legends such as Jerry West, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson and Pau Gasol. NBA commissioner Adam Silver joined by NBA legend Michael Jordan, Phil Jackson and dozens of current NBA players, including Stephen Curry, James Harden, Kyrie Irving and Russell Westbrook. Hollywood A-listers Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West were also in attendance. Also read: Kobe Bryant's widow Vanessa Bryant 'refuses to accept' death of her husband and daughter Nearly 20,000 fans gathered at the Staples Center for the memorial of Kobe Bryant and Gianna Bryant. 2 ♾ 24 pic.twitter.com/s2wIYwVWfA — STAPLES Center (@STAPLESCenter) February 24, 2020 × Vanessa Bryant called Kobe "the MVP of girl dads". Vanessa could not hold her tears back and said: "God knew they couldn't be on this earth without each other, He had to bring them home to have them together. Babe, you take care of our Gigi." Always & Forever the House That Kobe Built #MambaForvever pic.twitter.com/jgYl1EGH18 — STAPLES Center (@STAPLESCenter) February 24, 2020 × On her relationship with Kobe, Vanessa said: "He was the most amazing husband, Kobe loved me more than I could ever express or put into words. I was the fire. He was ice. Vice versa at times. ... He was my everything." Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan had tears in his eyes while talking about Bryant, he said: "He wanted to be the best basketball player that he could be. And as I got to know him, I wanted to be the best big brother that I could be." pic.twitter.com/R7ValyNfFC — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 24, 2020 × Jordan concluded the speech by saying: "When Kobe died, a piece of me died." Shaquille O'Neal compared his relationship with Kobe to John Lennon and Paul McCartney. He said: “Kobe and I have a very complex relationship throughout the years. But it’s like another leadership duo in John Lennon and Paul McCartney, whose creative rivalry led to some of the greatest music of all time,”. The one and only Shaq reflects on his time spent with Kobe and the Bryant family. pic.twitter.com/0Ef0gguwIm — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 25, 2020 × “Kobe and I pushed one another to play some of the greatest basketball of all time and I am proud that no other team has accomplished what the three-peat Lakers have done since the Shaq and Kobe Lakers did it. Sometimes like immature kids, we argued, we fought.. Folks thought we were on bad terms. But when the cameras are turned off, he and I would throw a wink at each other and say, ‘Let’s go whoop some…'” he added. The memorial service ended with Nat King Cole's song Unforgettable as the crowd started chanting "Kobe, Kobe."

'MVP of girl dads': Teary-eyed Vanessa bids goodbye to Kobe and Gianna at memorial service 

The NBA fined Orlando Magic coach Steve Clifford $25,000 for "verbally abusing" officials in their 105-103 loss to the New York Knicks on Thursday, the league announced on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vanessa-bryants-celebration-of-life-to-commemorate-kobe-and-gianna-bryant-279350" hreflang="en">Vanessa Bryant's 'celebration of life' to commemorate Kobe and Gianna Bryant</a>

Clifford was angry at the end of the game at Madison Square Garden after he tried unsuccessfully to call a timeout with 6.7 seconds remaining and the Knicks leading 105-103.

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😐 <a href="https://t.co/uT1KjHaxRd">pic.twitter.com/uT1KjHaxRd</a>
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Vying for the chance to run a play that might have tied -- or even won -- the contest, Clifford had some choice words for the officiating crew as he departed the court in the wake of the two-point defeat.

Later he said the officiating crew should have expected him to call a timeout in that kind of situation.

"When players don't have awareness, you lose. Coaches have poor awareness, that was my fault tonight, you lose," Clifford said after the game. "The officials have got to have awareness, too.

"Knowing the game and knowing the rules and knowing the situation's got to be a part of it, too."

The NBA fined Orlando Magic coach Steve Clifford $25,000 for "verbally abusing" officials in their 105-103 loss to the New York Knicks on Thursday, the league announced on Friday.

The NBA fined Orlando Magic coach Steve Clifford $25,000 for "verbally abusing" officials in their 105-103 loss to the New York Knicks on Thursday, the league announced on Friday. Also read: Vanessa Bryant's 'celebration of life' to commemorate Kobe and Gianna Bryant Clifford was angry at the end of the game at Madison Square Garden after he tried unsuccessfully to call a timeout with 6.7 seconds remaining and the Knicks leading 105-103. 😐 pic.twitter.com/uT1KjHaxRd — Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) February 7, 2020 × Vying for the chance to run a play that might have tied -- or even won -- the contest, Clifford had some choice words for the officiating crew as he departed the court in the wake of the two-point defeat. Later he said the officiating crew should have expected him to call a timeout in that kind of situation. "When players don't have awareness, you lose. Coaches have poor awareness, that was my fault tonight, you lose," Clifford said after the game. "The officials have got to have awareness, too. "Knowing the game and knowing the rules and knowing the situation's got to be a part of it, too."

NBA fines Orlando Magic coach Steve Clifford $25K over outburst

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 34 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead the league-leading Milwaukee Bucks over the New Orleans Pelicans 120-108 on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/girl-dad-lebron-james-to-don-giannas-jersey-number-in-the-all-star-game-278464" hreflang="en">'Girl dad' LeBron James to don Gianna's jersey number in the All-Star game</a>

Antetokounmpo hit 12-of-17 from the floor and 9-of-13 free throws while adding six assists, a steal and a blocked shot as the Bucks improved their NBA-best record to 43-7 thanks to a 42-24 scoring edge in the third quarter.

"I had a good game but I could get better," Antetokounmpo said. "Closing down the third quarter, we didn't do a good job. We got sloppy."

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🦌 34 PTS, 17 REB for Giannis 🦌<a href="https://twitter.com/Giannis_An34?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Giannis_An34</a> and the <a href="https://twitter.com/Bucks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Bucks</a> become the 8th team in <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAHistory?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBAHistory</a> to win 43 of their first 50 games! <a href="https://t.co/FrcFCWtYSd">pic.twitter.com/FrcFCWtYSd</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1224928651692691456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Greek star still feels the sting of losing to Toronto in last year's Eastern Conference final and failing to lift the Bucks into their first NBA Finals since&nbsp;1974, three years after Milwaukee won its only title.

That's why chasing the NBA one-season best record of 73-9 by Golden State is not the Bucks' major goal.

"It's going to be good if we win 70 games. All that hard work is going to pay off," Antetokounmpo said. "It's going to be even better if we get better every game and play for the championship."

Brandon Ingram led the host Pelicans with 32 points, while 19-year-old rookie star Zion Williamson had 20 points despite 5-of-19 shooting from the floor with seven rebounds and five assists.

"I'm happy he's going to be out there and help his team win," Antetokounmpo said. "It's good playing against him. It's going to be a great duel for a lot of years."

In Los Angeles, the Lakers got 36 points, nine assists and seven rebounds from LeBron James and 18 points from Anthony Davis and Kyle Kuzma as the hosts rolled over the San Antonio Spurs 129-102.

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LeBron James (36 PTS) hits 5 3-pointers in the 4th quarter to help secure the <a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Lakers</a> home win. 
 
Kyle Kuzma: 18 PTS (7-11 FGM), 12 REB 
DeMar DeRozan: 28 PTS, 9 REB, 7 AST <a href="https://t.co/fkEuT30UqY">pic.twitter.com/fkEuT30UqY</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1224924079758725126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Lakers improved the best record in the Western Conference to 38-11, 3 1/2 games ahead of the second-place Los Angeles Clippers.

James sank five 3-pointers in the first 3 1/2 minutes of the fourth quarter to stretch the Lakers' lead from 87-77 to 108-87 and seal San Antonio's fate.

"LeBron came out and hit five straight threes in 3 1/2 minutes, he got the lead for us and closed out the game early," Davis said.

"We just want to come out and make sure we play defense every night."

DeMar DeRozan led the Spurs with 28 points.

NBA scoring leader James Harden, chasing a third consecutive NBA scoring crown, poured in 40 points, passed off 12 assists and grabbed nine rebounds to power the Houston Rockets over visiting Charlotte 125-110.

Harden could match the third-longest run of scoring titles in NBA history, behind only the record seven seasons in a row of scoring crowns won by Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain.

Serbian center Nikola Jokic scored 29 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and passed out nine assists to spark the Denver Nuggets over visiting Portland 127-99. Damian Lillard led the Trail Blazers with 21 points.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 34 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead the league-leading Milwaukee Bucks over the New Orleans Pelicans 120-108 on Tuesday.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 34 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead the league-leading Milwaukee Bucks over the New Orleans Pelicans 120-108 on Tuesday. Also read: 'Girl dad' LeBron James to don Gianna's jersey number in the All-Star game Antetokounmpo hit 12-of-17 from the floor and 9-of-13 free throws while adding six assists, a steal and a blocked shot as the Bucks improved their NBA-best record to 43-7 thanks to a 42-24 scoring edge in the third quarter. "I had a good game but I could get better," Antetokounmpo said. "Closing down the third quarter, we didn't do a good job. We got sloppy." 🦌 34 PTS, 17 REB for Giannis 🦌@Giannis_An34 and the @Bucks become the 8th team in @NBAHistory to win 43 of their first 50 games! pic.twitter.com/FrcFCWtYSd — NBA (@NBA) February 5, 2020 × The Greek star still feels the sting of losing to Toronto in last year's Eastern Conference final and failing to lift the Bucks into their first NBA Finals since 1974, three years after Milwaukee won its only title. That's why chasing the NBA one-season best record of 73-9 by Golden State is not the Bucks' major goal. "It's going to be good if we win 70 games. All that hard work is going to pay off," Antetokounmpo said. "It's going to be even better if we get better every game and play for the championship." Brandon Ingram led the host Pelicans with 32 points, while 19-year-old rookie star Zion Williamson had 20 points despite 5-of-19 shooting from the floor with seven rebounds and five assists. "I'm happy he's going to be out there and help his team win," Antetokounmpo said. "It's good playing against him. It's going to be a great duel for a lot of years." In Los Angeles, the Lakers got 36 points, nine assists and seven rebounds from LeBron James and 18 points from Anthony Davis and Kyle Kuzma as the hosts rolled over the San Antonio Spurs 129-102. LeBron James (36 PTS) hits 5 3-pointers in the 4th quarter to help secure the @Lakers home win. Kyle Kuzma: 18 PTS (7-11 FGM), 12 REB DeMar DeRozan: 28 PTS, 9 REB, 7 AST pic.twitter.com/fkEuT30UqY — NBA (@NBA) February 5, 2020 × The Lakers improved the best record in the Western Conference to 38-11, 3 1/2 games ahead of the second-place Los Angeles Clippers. James sank five 3-pointers in the first 3 1/2 minutes of the fourth quarter to stretch the Lakers' lead from 87-77 to 108-87 and seal San Antonio's fate. "LeBron came out and hit five straight threes in 3 1/2 minutes, he got the lead for us and closed out the game early," Davis said. "We just want to come out and make sure we play defense every night." DeMar DeRozan led the Spurs with 28 points. NBA scoring leader James Harden, chasing a third consecutive NBA scoring crown, poured in 40 points, passed off 12 assists and grabbed nine rebounds to power the Houston Rockets over visiting Charlotte 125-110. Harden could match the third-longest run of scoring titles in NBA history, behind only the record seven seasons in a row of scoring crowns won by Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain. Serbian center Nikola Jokic scored 29 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and passed out nine assists to spark the Denver Nuggets over visiting Portland 127-99. Damian Lillard led the Trail Blazers with 21 points.

Basketball: Giannis powers NBA-best Bucks to win, Lakers rip Spurs

The NBA has left no stone unturned to pay tribute to former NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant who were killed in a helicopter crash on January 26. The crash took place when they were en route to a basketball match in Thousands Oak, in which Bryant's daughter was expected to play. Former Lakers legend was expected to coach the team.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-legend-kobe-bryant-and-his-daughter-gianna-among-9-killed-in-a-chopper-crash-in-california-276748">NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, among 9 killed in a chopper crash in California</a>

NBA's All-Star game has planned another tribute to the Lakers legend. The match will be played between Team Giannis and Team LeBron. Giannis will don jersey no. 24 to pay their homage to Kobe Bryant, whereas LeBron's team will wear jersey no. 2 to commemorate Gianna Bryant. He said they were given an option between these two jersey numbers and he picked Gianna's jersey number.&nbsp;

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🎥 LeBron James talks about why he chose the No. 2 jersey for the All-Star game and how the team can move forward. <a href="https://t.co/V83Toecdkg">pic.twitter.com/V83Toecdkg</a>
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1224478599631126528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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When LeBron James was asked why did he decide to have his team wear Gianna's jersey, he replied "Zhuri".&nbsp;

James is a 'girl dad' just like Bryant. He has a daughter named Zhuri, she is LeBron's only child.&nbsp;

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"Tonight we celebrate the kid that came here at 18, retired at 38 and became probably the best dad we've seen over the last three years.” <a href="https://t.co/0sS7e91cuz">pic.twitter.com/0sS7e91cuz</a>
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1223456959766024192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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LeBron was in tears hen he got to know about the crash, he had an emotional speech during the Lakers and Clipper match which got postponed due to the tragic event. He got a tattoo done to pay tribute to Bryant.&nbsp;

Kobe Bryant has always been vocal about his daughters and how fun it was for him to raise them. He called himself "girl dad".&nbsp;

LeBron recently surpassed Kobe Bryant in the list of All-Time points scorers in NBA history. He currently stands third.&nbsp;

The match will take place on February 17, 6:30 AM (IST).&nbsp;

The NBA has left no stone unturned to pay tribute to former NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant who were killed in a helicopter crash on January 26.

The NBA has left no stone unturned to pay tribute to former NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant who were killed in a helicopter crash on January 26. The crash took place when they were en route to a basketball match in Thousands Oak, in which Bryant's daughter was expected to play. Former Lakers legend was expected to coach the team. Also read: NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, among 9 killed in a chopper crash in California NBA's All-Star game has planned another tribute to the Lakers legend. The match will be played between Team Giannis and Team LeBron. Giannis will don jersey no. 24 to pay their homage to Kobe Bryant, whereas LeBron's team will wear jersey no. 2 to commemorate Gianna Bryant. He said they were given an option between these two jersey numbers and he picked Gianna's jersey number. 🎥 LeBron James talks about why he chose the No. 2 jersey for the All-Star game and how the team can move forward. pic.twitter.com/V83Toecdkg — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 3, 2020 × When LeBron James was asked why did he decide to have his team wear Gianna's jersey, he replied "Zhuri". James is a 'girl dad' just like Bryant. He has a daughter named Zhuri, she is LeBron's only child. "Tonight we celebrate the kid that came here at 18, retired at 38 and became probably the best dad we've seen over the last three years.” pic.twitter.com/0sS7e91cuz — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 1, 2020 × LeBron was in tears hen he got to know about the crash, he had an emotional speech during the Lakers and Clipper match which got postponed due to the tragic event. He got a tattoo done to pay tribute to Bryant. Kobe Bryant has always been vocal about his daughters and how fun it was for him to raise them. He called himself "girl dad". LeBron recently surpassed Kobe Bryant in the list of All-Time points scorers in NBA history. He currently stands third. The match will take place on February 17, 6:30 AM (IST).

'Girl dad' LeBron James to don Gianna's jersey number in the All-Star game

World leaders, sports heroes and artists mourn Kobe Bryant's death after former NBA star dies in helicopter crash. Reaction to Kobe Bryant's death was swift in the basketball world and beyond.

Obama, Trump, Kanye West, and others mourn Kobe Bryant's death

The retired NBA star and his daughter Gianna were among nine people in a helicopter that crashed in Calabasas, California.

Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna dead in helicopter crash in Calabasas

A true global superstar, the depth of Bryant’s popularity quickly surfaced as reports were confirmed that the Los Angeles Lakers great had been killed along with his daughter Gianna and seven others when his helicopter crashed in a remote field near the city of Calabasas.

Trump, Tiger Woods, Jabber send condolences over death of Kobe Bryant

January 20 in history: First African-American sworn-in as US President, Hong Kong ceded to Great Britain, and lots more!

Newcomer Okoro's performance in Auburn Arena was purely magical as the "Tigers" (Auburn) beat the "Commodores" (Vanderbilt).

The nail-biting contest ended with a&nbsp;83-79 scoreline.&nbsp;

Isaac Okoro led the way with a career defining night, scoring&nbsp;his season's best 23 to go with six rebounds and three assists. Austin Wiley added a double-double, with 13 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks, the win made his birthday look very&nbsp;special. While Danjel Purifoy finished with 12 points, including 10 of them in the second half.

Number 5 Auburn with the streak of 14 wins and Number-7 San Diego State with the winning streak of 16 remains unbeaten, the only unbeaten teams of the season.&nbsp;

The Tigers (Auburn) are ranked Number-5 after nearly 20 years, they rose to the Top-5 this week for the first time since January,&nbsp;17, 2000.&nbsp;The match was actually a close call due to a late comeback by the Vanderbilt.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-commissioner-david-stern-dies-at-77-made-league-truly-global-brand-271536">Also Read:&nbsp;Former NBA Commissioner David Stern dies at 77</a>

Jordan Wright was fouled to prevent a breakaway basket. He made both free throws to tie it for Vanderbilt with 59 seconds remaining.&nbsp;

J'Von McCormick hit two foul shots on the other end and Ejike Obinna missed two shots inside. Okoro made 1 of 2 from the line with 29 seconds left, Vanderbilts were given the ball three points down.

Auburn's Jersey Number 3, Danjel Purifoy stole the inbounds pass after a Vanderbilt timeout and McCormick made 1 of 2 free throws with 14 seconds left.

The Auburn Basketball took to Twitter and praised Isaac Okoro's performance:&nbsp;"We don't have five seniors. We have six. @isaacokoro303 plays like a senior, knows how to communicate, not afraid of the moment, makes big plays." - @coachbrucepearl

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"We don't have five seniors. We have six. <a href="https://twitter.com/isaacokoro303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isaacokoro303</a> plays like a senior, knows how to communicate, not afraid of the moment, makes big plays." - <a href="https://twitter.com/coachbrucepearl?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@coachbrucepearl</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WarEagle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WarEagle</a>
— Auburn Basketball (@AuburnMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/AuburnMBB/status/1215147437851017216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Saben Lee scored a career-high 27 points for Vanderbilt, making 10 of 14 shots and all three 3-point attempts.

McLemore and Okoro combined for 31 of Auburn's first 37 points.

Vanderbilt is slated to host Texas A&amp;M on Saturday, while&nbsp;Aunburn will host Georgia on Saturday.

Newcomer Okoro's performance in Auburn Arena was purely magical as the "Tigers" (Auburn) beat the "Commodores" (Vanderbilt). The nail-biting contest ended with a 83-79 scoreline.

Newcomer Okoro's performance in Auburn Arena was purely magical as the "Tigers" (Auburn) beat the "Commodores" (Vanderbilt). The nail-biting contest ended with a 83-79 scoreline. Isaac Okoro led the way with a career defining night, scoring his season's best 23 to go with six rebounds and three assists. Austin Wiley added a double-double, with 13 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks, the win made his birthday look very special. While Danjel Purifoy finished with 12 points, including 10 of them in the second half. Number 5 Auburn with the streak of 14 wins and Number-7 San Diego State with the winning streak of 16 remains unbeaten, the only unbeaten teams of the season. The Tigers (Auburn) are ranked Number-5 after nearly 20 years, they rose to the Top-5 this week for the first time since January, 17, 2000. The match was actually a close call due to a late comeback by the Vanderbilt. Also Read: Former NBA Commissioner David Stern dies at 77 Jordan Wright was fouled to prevent a breakaway basket. He made both free throws to tie it for Vanderbilt with 59 seconds remaining. J'Von McCormick hit two foul shots on the other end and Ejike Obinna missed two shots inside. Okoro made 1 of 2 from the line with 29 seconds left, Vanderbilts were given the ball three points down. Auburn's Jersey Number 3, Danjel Purifoy stole the inbounds pass after a Vanderbilt timeout and McCormick made 1 of 2 free throws with 14 seconds left. The Auburn Basketball took to Twitter and praised Isaac Okoro's performance: "We don't have five seniors. We have six. @isaacokoro303 plays like a senior, knows how to communicate, not afraid of the moment, makes big plays." - @coachbrucepearl "We don't have five seniors. We have six. @isaacokoro303 plays like a senior, knows how to communicate, not afraid of the moment, makes big plays." - @coachbrucepearl #WarEagle — Auburn Basketball (@AuburnMBB) January 9, 2020 × Saben Lee scored a career-high 27 points for Vanderbilt, making 10 of 14 shots and all three 3-point attempts. McLemore and Okoro combined for 31 of Auburn's first 37 points. Vanderbilt is slated to host Texas A&M on Saturday, while Aunburn will host Georgia on Saturday.

Basketball: Okoro's super night helps Auburn beat Vanderbilt in nail biting finish

Former&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/sports-has-emerged-as-battlefield-for-freedom-of-expression-270322">National Basketball Association</a>&nbsp;Commissioner&nbsp;David&nbsp;Stern, who oversaw explosive growth in the popularity of the game during his 30-year tenure, died on Wednesday at the age of&nbsp;77, the&nbsp;league&nbsp;said.

Stern, the NBA's longest-serving&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;before being succeeded by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/punishment-awaits-national-basketball-associations-commissioner-for-defaming-china-state-media-257121">Adam Silver</a> on February 1, 2014, had been in serious condition after emergency surgery on December&nbsp;12 in New York following a sudden brain haemorrhage.

"Every member of the NBA family is the beneficiary of David’s vision, generosity and inspiration," Silver, who worked with&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;for 22 years, said in a statement.

"Because of David, the NBA is a truly&nbsp;global&nbsp;brand."

Under&nbsp;Stern, the NBA experienced extraordinary growth, with seven new franchises, including expansion to Canada in 1995,&nbsp;a more than 30-fold increase in revenue, a dramatic gain in national TV exposure and the launch of the Women's National Basketball Association and NBA Development&nbsp;League.

He also had a role in many other initiatives that helped shape the&nbsp;league, including a drug policy, salary-cap system and dress code.

"Without David&nbsp;Stern, the NBA would not be what it is today,"&nbsp;former&nbsp;Chicago Bulls superstar and current Charlotte Hornets owner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peles-last-number-10-brazil-jersey-sold-for-30000-euros-in-italy-266670">Michael Jordan</a> said in a statement.&nbsp;

"He guided the&nbsp;league&nbsp;through turbulent times and grew the&nbsp;league&nbsp;into an international phenomenon."

National Football&nbsp;League&nbsp;Commissioner&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/alex-rodriguez-jokes-about-considering-jennifer-lopez-as-boss-of-house-260716">Roger Goodell</a> remembered&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;as "a driving force in sports for decades."

Stern's greatest accomplishment as&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;is widely considered to be the way he transformed the NBA, once largely an unknown commodity outside the United States, into a&nbsp;globally televised powerhouse.

Under&nbsp;Stern's leadership, the&nbsp;league&nbsp;opened 13&nbsp;global&nbsp;NBA offices and became in 1990 the first US&nbsp;professional sports&nbsp;league&nbsp;to stage a regular-season game outside North America, when the Phoenix Suns played the Utah Jazz in Japan.

"David&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;was the most important non-player/non-coach who ever passed through the NBA and it’s not really close," Bill Simmons, broadcaster and author of "The Book of Basketball: The NBA," said on Twitter.

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"David&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;earned and deserved inclusion in our land of giants," the National Basketball Players Association added in a statement.

Current Los Angeles Lakers star, LeBron James, a three-time NBA champion, praised&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;for changing the lives of so many young adults, and "more importantly your vision to make our game become worldwide, a vision only you could make happen."

Bill Russell, who won 11 championships in 13 years with the Boston Celtics long before&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;became&nbsp;commissioner, said in a tweet: "He changed so many lives. David was a great innovator and&nbsp;made&nbsp;the game we love what it is today. This is a horrible loss."

Another retired NBA star, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/adidas-promises-revival-after-sluggish-quarter-241513">Shaquille O'Neal</a>, called&nbsp;Stern: "The best&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;to ever do it."

"We lost a legend," said Germany's Dirk Nowitzki, a 14-time all-star with the Dallas Mavericks.

Asked to name his most cherished courtside moment,&nbsp;Stern, in a 2014 interview with the New York Times, pointed to a photograph of him presenting Magic Johnson with the most valuable player trophy at the 1992 All-Star Game, months after Johnson retired from the Los Angeles Lakers on disclosing he had contracted the virus that causes AIDS.

The 1992 "Dream Team"&nbsp;the first US Olympic men's basketball squad to include active players from the NBA - was another special moment.

"This much-maligned group of players and sport, on the march to the gold medal stand, being feted like a combination of the Bolshoi, the Philharmonic and the Beatles,"&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;said.

Johnson remembered that journey on Wednesday: "When David allowed me to play in the 1992 All Star Game in Orlando and then play for the Olympic Dream Team, we were able to change the world," he said on Twitter.

Stern&nbsp;also presided over four NBA lockouts, including two that resulted in shortened seasons in 1998-99 and 2011.

Stern, who had remained affiliated with the NBA and held the title of&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;emeritus, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014 and the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2016.

Former National Basketball Association Commissioner David Stern, who oversaw explosive growth in the popularity of the game during his 30-year tenure, died on Wednesday at the age of 77, the league said.

Former National Basketball Association Commissioner David Stern, who oversaw explosive growth in the popularity of the game during his 30-year tenure, died on Wednesday at the age of 77, the league said. Stern, the NBA's longest-serving commissioner before being succeeded by Adam Silver on February 1, 2014, had been in serious condition after emergency surgery on December 12 in New York following a sudden brain haemorrhage. "Every member of the NBA family is the beneficiary of David’s vision, generosity and inspiration," Silver, who worked with Stern for 22 years, said in a statement. "Because of David, the NBA is a truly global brand." Under Stern, the NBA experienced extraordinary growth, with seven new franchises, including expansion to Canada in 1995, a more than 30-fold increase in revenue, a dramatic gain in national TV exposure and the launch of the Women's National Basketball Association and NBA Development League. He also had a role in many other initiatives that helped shape the league, including a drug policy, salary-cap system and dress code. "Without David Stern, the NBA would not be what it is today," former Chicago Bulls superstar and current Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan said in a statement. "He guided the league through turbulent times and grew the league into an international phenomenon." National Football League Commissioner Roger Goodell remembered Stern as "a driving force in sports for decades." Stern's greatest accomplishment as commissioner is widely considered to be the way he transformed the NBA, once largely an unknown commodity outside the United States, into a globally televised powerhouse. Under Stern's leadership, the league opened 13 global NBA offices and became in 1990 the first US professional sports league to stage a regular-season game outside North America, when the Phoenix Suns played the Utah Jazz in Japan. "David Stern was the most important non-player/non-coach who ever passed through the NBA and it’s not really close," Bill Simmons, broadcaster and author of "The Book of Basketball: The NBA," said on Twitter. David Stern was the most important non-player/non-coach who ever passed through the NBA and it’s not really close. Out of everyone he probably loved the league the most. It’s a sad day. RiP. — Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) January 1, 2020 × "David Stern earned and deserved inclusion in our land of giants," the National Basketball Players Association added in a statement. Current Los Angeles Lakers star, LeBron James, a three-time NBA champion, praised Stern for changing the lives of so many young adults, and "more importantly your vision to make our game become worldwide, a vision only you could make happen." Bill Russell, who won 11 championships in 13 years with the Boston Celtics long before Stern became commissioner, said in a tweet: "He changed so many lives. David was a great innovator and made the game we love what it is today. This is a horrible loss." Another retired NBA star, Shaquille O'Neal, called Stern: "The best commissioner to ever do it." "We lost a legend," said Germany's Dirk Nowitzki, a 14-time all-star with the Dallas Mavericks. Asked to name his most cherished courtside moment, Stern, in a 2014 interview with the New York Times, pointed to a photograph of him presenting Magic Johnson with the most valuable player trophy at the 1992 All-Star Game, months after Johnson retired from the Los Angeles Lakers on disclosing he had contracted the virus that causes AIDS. The 1992 "Dream Team" the first US Olympic men's basketball squad to include active players from the NBA - was another special moment. "This much-maligned group of players and sport, on the march to the gold medal stand, being feted like a combination of the Bolshoi, the Philharmonic and the Beatles," Stern said. Johnson remembered that journey on Wednesday: "When David allowed me to play in the 1992 All Star Game in Orlando and then play for the Olympic Dream Team, we were able to change the world," he said on Twitter. Stern also presided over four NBA lockouts, including two that resulted in shortened seasons in 1998-99 and 2011. Stern, who had remained affiliated with the NBA and held the title of commissioner emeritus, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014 and the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2016.

Former NBA Commissioner David Stern dies at 77

High profile city rivals&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lakers-kyle-kuzma-ruled-out-for-nba-season-opener-257190">Los Angeles Lakers</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/camila-cabello-shawn-mendes-make-temperatures-soar-during-los-angeles-clippers-game-261971">Los Angeles Clippers</a> clashed on Christmas Day which was witnessed by several Hollywood stars.

However, an incident&nbsp;became&nbsp;the centrepiece of jokes on social media&nbsp;at Staples Centre, Los Angeles after&nbsp;Lakers' player Anthony Davis fell on the lap of actor and comedian, Kevin Hart.

Rather than getting up, Davis decided to remain seated on Hart's lap to pose for a photo, and probably to make his Christmas wish. The two were joined by Davis's teammate and NBA star, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/houston-rockets-gm-wasnt-educated-when-he-sent-hong-kong-tweet-lebron-james-256087">LeBron James</a>, who rushed to sit on Hart's lap to make his own wish.

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Did AD want a selfie with Kevin Hart? 🤔😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LakeShow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LakeShow</a> <a href="https://t.co/DrgmKyK2Km">pic.twitter.com/DrgmKyK2Km</a>
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Hart has made known his liking for the game, having been seen on the telecast of several NBA games.

It led to several memes and&nbsp;jokes on social media.&nbsp;A&nbsp;joke on social media compared&nbsp;the situation to a scene from the 2003 movie 'Elf', where&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/julia-louis-dreyfus-and-will-ferrell-starrer-downhill-to-release-on-valentines-day-2020-264706">Will Ferrel</a> plays 'Buddy', sitting on the lap of the much smaller 'Papa Elf'.

High profile city rivals Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers clashed on Christmas Day which was witnessed by several Hollywood stars. However, an incident became the centrepiece of jokes on social media at Staples Centre, Los Angeles after Lakers' player Anthony Davis fell on the lap of actor and comedian, Kevin Hart.

High profile city rivals Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers clashed on Christmas Day which was witnessed by several Hollywood stars. However, an incident became the centrepiece of jokes on social media at Staples Centre, Los Angeles after Lakers' player Anthony Davis fell on the lap of actor and comedian, Kevin Hart. Rather than getting up, Davis decided to remain seated on Hart's lap to pose for a photo, and probably to make his Christmas wish. The two were joined by Davis's teammate and NBA star, LeBron James, who rushed to sit on Hart's lap to make his own wish. Did AD want a selfie with Kevin Hart? 🤔😂#LakeShow pic.twitter.com/DrgmKyK2Km — NBA TV (@NBATV) December 26, 2019 × Hart has made known his liking for the game, having been seen on the telecast of several NBA games. It led to several memes and jokes on social media. A joke on social media compared the situation to a scene from the 2003 movie 'Elf', where Will Ferrel plays 'Buddy', sitting on the lap of the much smaller 'Papa Elf'.

NBA star Anthony Davis land's on Kevin Hart's lap as LeBron James joins in

Anthony Davis and LeBron James combined for 51 points as the Los Angeles Lakers won their seventh straight game with a 95-80 victory over the Miami Heat.

Davis finished with a team-leading 26 points and eight rebounds and James scored 12 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter for the Lakers who are also 4-0 at home.

James had his streak of triple-doubles snapped at three games as he finished with six assists and four rebounds.

"I just wanted to be aggressive and see if I could make it count," said James, who registered his 1,000th career double-double.

His three triple-doubles in the previous three contests made him the first to do it since Magic Johnson accomplished the feat 32 years ago.

James previously led the Heat to two NBA titles before leaving to rejoin the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014.

"We are very resilient. We bounce back and we don't get rattled," James said of the Lakers. "That's not common for a team that has only been together a short period of time, but it is a good trait."

Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 22 points after scoring 34 in his previous game.

Backup point guard Goran Dragic came off the bench to score 19 points for the Heat who shot just 35.0 per cent from the floor and made just six of 35 three-point attempts.

Miami, who was playing on short rest after beating Phoenix 124-108 the previous night, had their lowest-scoring and poorest-shooting game of the season.&nbsp;

The Heat was without starting forward Justise Winslow, who has now missed four straight games with back problems.

Elsewhere,&nbsp;Spencer Dinwiddie came off the bench to score a team-high 34 points as the Brooklyn Nets overcame Damian Lillard's 60-point performance with a 119-115 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.

Lillard became the first NBA player this season to score 60 points after the league featured three in 2018-19. Houston Rockets&nbsp;guard James Harden had a pair of 61-pointers, while Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker also scored 60.

Dinwiddie and Kyrie Irving combined to score 10 three-pointers which was enough to counter Lillard's one-man performance.

One man show

Lillard nailed a running 34-footer at the final horn, allowing him to surpass his previous career-high of 59 points set two years ago against Utah.

Lillard finished 19-of-33 from the field, seven-of-16 on three-point attempts and 15-for-15 from the free-throw line.&nbsp;

In New Orleans, Pascal Siakam equalled his career-best with 44 points as the reigning NBA champion Toronto Raptors dominated in almost every aspect of the game and beat the New Orleans Pelicans 122-104.

The Raptors scored the first 15 points of the second quarter for a 75-53 halftime lead to seize control of the game and improve to 6-2 on the season.

Siakam finished 17 of 28 from the floor and had 20 rebounds for the Raptors, who dominated despite missing guard Kyle Lowry and Serge Ibaka, who were both injured.

Fred VanVleet had 12 points and 11 assists, and OG Anunoby contributed 21 points and seven rebounds.

Also, Nikola Jokic hit a 20-foot jumper with two seconds left, and the host&nbsp;Denver Nuggets&nbsp;clawed their way out of a 21-point deficit to beat the&nbsp;Philadelphia 76ers&nbsp;100-97.&nbsp;

Jokic scored 16 of his game-high 26 points in the fourth quarter and also had 11 rebounds.&nbsp;

Joel Embiid had 19 points, 15 rebounds and eight turnovers before fouling out for the Sixers.

In Dallas, Luka Doncic scored a career-best 38 points but it wasn't enough as the New York Knicks snapped a four-game skid by holding on for a 106-102 win over the Dallas Mavericks.&nbsp;

Marcus Morris equalled a season-high with 29 points as the visiting Knicks, who bounced back nicely from consecutive blowout losses to Sacramento and Detroit that dropped their record to a league-worst 1-7.

Doncic set a career-high with 38 points while collecting 14 rebounds and 10 assists, but he also committed eight turnovers.&nbsp;

Mavericks Kristaps Porzingis scored 28 in his first meeting against his former team since the trade from New York on January 31.

Anthony Davis and LeBron James combined for 51 points as the Los Angeles Lakers won their seventh straight game with a 95-80 victory over the Miami Heat. Davis finished with a team-leading 26 points and eight rebounds and James scored 12 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter for the Lakers who are also 4-0 at home.

Anthony Davis and LeBron James combined for 51 points as the Los Angeles Lakers won their seventh straight game with a 95-80 victory over the Miami Heat. Davis finished with a team-leading 26 points and eight rebounds and James scored 12 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter for the Lakers who are also 4-0 at home. James had his streak of triple-doubles snapped at three games as he finished with six assists and four rebounds. "I just wanted to be aggressive and see if I could make it count," said James, who registered his 1,000th career double-double. His three triple-doubles in the previous three contests made him the first to do it since Magic Johnson accomplished the feat 32 years ago. James previously led the Heat to two NBA titles before leaving to rejoin the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014. "We are very resilient. We bounce back and we don't get rattled," James said of the Lakers. "That's not common for a team that has only been together a short period of time, but it is a good trait." Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 22 points after scoring 34 in his previous game. Backup point guard Goran Dragic came off the bench to score 19 points for the Heat who shot just 35.0 per cent from the floor and made just six of 35 three-point attempts. Miami, who was playing on short rest after beating Phoenix 124-108 the previous night, had their lowest-scoring and poorest-shooting game of the season. The Heat was without starting forward Justise Winslow, who has now missed four straight games with back problems. Elsewhere, Spencer Dinwiddie came off the bench to score a team-high 34 points as the Brooklyn Nets overcame Damian Lillard's 60-point performance with a 119-115 win over the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard became the first NBA player this season to score 60 points after the league featured three in 2018-19. Houston Rockets guard James Harden had a pair of 61-pointers, while Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker also scored 60. Dinwiddie and Kyrie Irving combined to score 10 three-pointers which was enough to counter Lillard's one-man performance. One man show Lillard nailed a running 34-footer at the final horn, allowing him to surpass his previous career-high of 59 points set two years ago against Utah. Lillard finished 19-of-33 from the field, seven-of-16 on three-point attempts and 15-for-15 from the free-throw line. In New Orleans, Pascal Siakam equalled his career-best with 44 points as the reigning NBA champion Toronto Raptors dominated in almost every aspect of the game and beat the New Orleans Pelicans 122-104. The Raptors scored the first 15 points of the second quarter for a 75-53 halftime lead to seize control of the game and improve to 6-2 on the season. Siakam finished 17 of 28 from the floor and had 20 rebounds for the Raptors, who dominated despite missing guard Kyle Lowry and Serge Ibaka, who were both injured. Fred VanVleet had 12 points and 11 assists, and OG Anunoby contributed 21 points and seven rebounds. Also, Nikola Jokic hit a 20-foot jumper with two seconds left, and the host Denver Nuggets clawed their way out of a 21-point deficit to beat the Philadelphia 76ers 100-97. Jokic scored 16 of his game-high 26 points in the fourth quarter and also had 11 rebounds. Joel Embiid had 19 points, 15 rebounds and eight turnovers before fouling out for the Sixers. In Dallas, Luka Doncic scored a career-best 38 points but it wasn't enough as the New York Knicks snapped a four-game skid by holding on for a 106-102 win over the Dallas Mavericks. Marcus Morris equalled a season-high with 29 points as the visiting Knicks, who bounced back nicely from consecutive blowout losses to Sacramento and Detroit that dropped their record to a league-worst 1-7. Doncic set a career-high with 38 points while collecting 14 rebounds and 10 assists, but he also committed eight turnovers. Mavericks Kristaps Porzingis scored 28 in his first meeting against his former team since the trade from New York on January 31.

Basketball: James' triple double streak ends but Lakers win 7th straight

Fred Van Vleet scored a career-high 34 points as the Toronto Raptors got their NBA title defence off to a winning start with a 130-122 overtime win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday.

Pascal Siakam also tallied 34 points and added 18 rebounds before fouling out of the NBA's season-opening contest at Scotiabank Arena which featured the Raptors' championship banner and ring ceremony.

Both teams were missing some big names as the Raptors began life without Kawhi Leonard and the Pelicans lost Anthony Davis in trade and were missing injured first pick Zion Williamson.&nbsp;

"We had to reach into our bag of tricks," said Raptors coach Nick Nurse.

The game was one of two opening night contests with the Los Angeles Lakers taking the court later against Leonard's new team Los Angeles Clippers.

Prior to the tipoff against the Pelicans, the Raptors presented their players and coaches with their rings and unveiled the 2019 championship banner in the rafters of the arena.&nbsp;

The massive ring features over 80 diamonds including 74 in and around the Toronto skyline logo which represents the club's 74 wins last season.

The Pelicans decided to remain on the floor during the pre-game festivities instead of loosening up in their locker room.&nbsp;

"It was great to see the ceremony," said Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry. "That is what we aspire to be."

Kyle Lowry chipped in 22 points and Serge Ibaka added 13 for Toronto, whose championship pedigree shone through by outscoring the Pelicans 13-5 in overtime. The teams were tied 117-all at the end of regulation.

Nurse blamed their slow start against the Pelicans on the ceremony.

"I thought the energy was an issue," Nurse said. "The emotions of the night took its toll.&nbsp;

"I was super happy it was tied at the half. There was a noticeable lack of energy just in the locker room.

"You just got to take them (wins) in this league when you get them."

Brandon Ingram finished with 22 points to lead the Pelicans.

This marks the end of the Leonard period in Toronto as he left as a free agent to join the Clippers.

That means leadership by committee with the load being distributed amongst Lowry, VanVleet and Siakam, who signed a four-year, $130-million contract extension Monday.&nbsp;

The Raptors are also without another key player from their championship team in Danny Green, who departed as a free agent for the Lakers.

Fred Van Vleet scored a career-high 34 points as the Toronto Raptors got their NBA title defence off to a winning start with a 130-122 overtime win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday.

Fred Van Vleet scored a career-high 34 points as the Toronto Raptors got their NBA title defence off to a winning start with a 130-122 overtime win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday. Pascal Siakam also tallied 34 points and added 18 rebounds before fouling out of the NBA's season-opening contest at Scotiabank Arena which featured the Raptors' championship banner and ring ceremony. Both teams were missing some big names as the Raptors began life without Kawhi Leonard and the Pelicans lost Anthony Davis in trade and were missing injured first pick Zion Williamson. "We had to reach into our bag of tricks," said Raptors coach Nick Nurse. The game was one of two opening night contests with the Los Angeles Lakers taking the court later against Leonard's new team Los Angeles Clippers. Prior to the tipoff against the Pelicans, the Raptors presented their players and coaches with their rings and unveiled the 2019 championship banner in the rafters of the arena. The massive ring features over 80 diamonds including 74 in and around the Toronto skyline logo which represents the club's 74 wins last season. The Pelicans decided to remain on the floor during the pre-game festivities instead of loosening up in their locker room. "It was great to see the ceremony," said Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry. "That is what we aspire to be." Kyle Lowry chipped in 22 points and Serge Ibaka added 13 for Toronto, whose championship pedigree shone through by outscoring the Pelicans 13-5 in overtime. The teams were tied 117-all at the end of regulation. Nurse blamed their slow start against the Pelicans on the ceremony. "I thought the energy was an issue," Nurse said. "The emotions of the night took its toll. "I was super happy it was tied at the half. There was a noticeable lack of energy just in the locker room. "You just got to take them (wins) in this league when you get them." Brandon Ingram finished with 22 points to lead the Pelicans. This marks the end of the Leonard period in Toronto as he left as a free agent to join the Clippers. That means leadership by committee with the load being distributed amongst Lowry, VanVleet and Siakam, who signed a four-year, $130-million contract extension Monday. The Raptors are also without another key player from their championship team in Danny Green, who departed as a free agent for the Lakers.

Raptors launch NBA title defence with win over Pelicans

Pascal Siakam, a major contributor in Toronto's run to the NBA title last season, has signed a four-year maximum rookie contract extension for $130 million, according to multiple reports Saturday.

The 25-year-old Cameroonian forward signed the deal ahead of a Monday deadline for such extensions for 2016 draftees, ESPN and the Toronto Star reported.

Siakam was voted the NBA's Most Improved Player last season as the Raptors, powered by Kawhi Leonard, captured the NBA title, defeating defending champion Golden State in the final.

In the finals opener, Siakam scored a career playoff-high 32 points to lead the Raptors over the Warriors and signal the best-of-seven series upset to come.

Siakam, who only began playing basketball at age 16 in Africa, averaged 19.8 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.7 assists a game for the Raptors last season.

With Leonard leaving for the Los Angeles Clippers, Siakam is expected to play a major role for the Raptors over the next few seasons.

The new deal begins after the 2019-20 campaign. Siakam could have signed a five-year deal but opted for fewer years.

Pascal Siakam, a major contributor in Toronto's run to the NBA title last season, has signed a four-year maximum rookie contract extension for $130 million, according to multiple reports Saturday.

Pascal Siakam, a major contributor in Toronto's run to the NBA title last season, has signed a four-year maximum rookie contract extension for $130 million, according to multiple reports Saturday. The 25-year-old Cameroonian forward signed the deal ahead of a Monday deadline for such extensions for 2016 draftees, ESPN and the Toronto Star reported. Siakam was voted the NBA's Most Improved Player last season as the Raptors, powered by Kawhi Leonard, captured the NBA title, defeating defending champion Golden State in the final. In the finals opener, Siakam scored a career playoff-high 32 points to lead the Raptors over the Warriors and signal the best-of-seven series upset to come. Siakam, who only began playing basketball at age 16 in Africa, averaged 19.8 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.7 assists a game for the Raptors last season. With Leonard leaving for the Los Angeles Clippers, Siakam is expected to play a major role for the Raptors over the next few seasons. The new deal begins after the 2019-20 campaign. Siakam could have signed a five-year deal but opted for fewer years.

Pascal Siakam signs four-year maximum NBA deal with Raptors: Reports

The Los Angeles&nbsp;Lakers&nbsp;say Kyle&nbsp;Kuzma&nbsp;won't play when they open the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;season&nbsp;against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday as he continues to recover from a stress reaction in his left foot.

Kuzma, who averaged 18.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game last&nbsp;season&nbsp;for the&nbsp;Lakers, was hurt while he was with the United States team in the run-up to the World Championships in China.

He was cleared for non-contact practices after the&nbsp;Lakers&nbsp;returned from playing two&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;preseason&nbsp;games in China last week.

Lakers&nbsp;coach Frank Vogel said he wants to see&nbsp;Kuzma&nbsp;do more work before he takes the court in games to be sure he has no setbacks. A stress reaction is a painful condition that is a precursor to a stress fracture.

"We're going to try to increase his workload and activities this week and we'll see where we're at," said Vogel, who described the 24-year-old third-year forward as "probably our third-best player" behind superstar LeBron James and center Anthony Davis.

The Los Angeles Lakers say Kyle Kuzma won't play when they open the NBA season against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday as he continues to recover from a stress reaction in his left foot.

The Los Angeles Lakers say Kyle Kuzma won't play when they open the NBA season against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday as he continues to recover from a stress reaction in his left foot. Kuzma, who averaged 18.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game last season for the Lakers, was hurt while he was with the United States team in the run-up to the World Championships in China. He was cleared for non-contact practices after the Lakers returned from playing two NBA preseason games in China last week. Lakers coach Frank Vogel said he wants to see Kuzma do more work before he takes the court in games to be sure he has no setbacks. A stress reaction is a painful condition that is a precursor to a stress fracture. "We're going to try to increase his workload and activities this week and we'll see where we're at," said Vogel, who described the 24-year-old third-year forward as "probably our third-best player" behind superstar LeBron James and center Anthony Davis.

Lakers' Kyle Kuzma ruled out for NBA season opener

China demanded that a Houston Rockets executive be sacked for supporting pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Thursday, adding that the league's row with Beijing had "substantial" financial consequences.

Rockets general manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nba-rockets-executive-says-hong-kong-tweet-not-meant-to-offend-254149">Daryl Morey </a>ignited a firestorm earlier this month with a tweeted image captioned "Fight for Freedom. Stand with Hong Kong."

It came right before the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets arrived in China for what proved to be a tense two-game exhibition tour, with broadcasters there <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tv-drops-nba-exhibition-games-escalating-pressure-amid-tweet-uproar-254463">refusing to air the games</a>, public protests against Morey's comments and local sponsors cutting ties with the NBA.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-protests-reach-a-tipping-point-256565">Hong Kong </a>has been rocked by months of demonstrations by citizens who accuse Beijing of chipping away at its freedoms, but China has portrayed the protesters as violent separatists and bristled at any foreign interference in the matter.

The backlash in China against Morey's comments has cast a cloud over the NBA's lucrative broadcasting, merchandising and sponsorship interests in the country, where it has legions of fans.

"We were being asked to fire him by the Chinese government, by the parties we dealt with, government and business," Silver said during a panel discussion in New York.

"We said there's no chance that's happening. There's no chance we'll even discipline him."

But the NBA chief said the dispute over Morey's actions had taken a big toll on the league's bottom line.

"I don't know where we go from here," Silver said. "The financial consequences have been and may continue to be fairly dramatic.

"The losses have already been substantial," he added. "Our games are not back on the air in China as we speak, and we'll see what happens next."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/despite-consequences-nba-boss-defends-values-in-china-row-254649">Silver hit back </a>at criticism of the NBA's early statements on the crisis, which many saw as overly deferential to Beijing.

"We were saying we regretted upsetting our fans (but) also at the same time supporting Daryl Morey's right to express himself, right to tweet... Maybe I was trying too hard to be a diplomat.

"There was no regret directed to the government (but instead) to our fans, hundreds of millions of them in China."

Beijing's response to Morey's comments sparked US accusations that Beijing was using access to its vast market as leverage to dictate speech in other countries.

Basketball superstar LeBron James, who traveled to China with the Lakers for the exhibition games, this week said<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/houston-rockets-gm-wasnt-educated-when-he-sent-hong-kong-tweet-lebron-james-256087"> Morey "wasn't educated"</a> on the situation and suggested the Rockets executive should have kept his mouth shut.

But Silver said Thursday that the league had a responsibility to defend freedom of speech.

"The values of the NBA -- the American values, we are an American business -- travel with us wherever we go," he said. "And one of those values is free expression."

Since the row began, the NBA has also found itself under pressure from US politicians and media outlets who have urged the league not to buckle under Chinese criticism or even to withdraw from the Chinese market completely.

"I understand there's a point of view from some that we shouldn't be in business at all in China and I'd say from an intellectual standpoint that's fair," Silver said.

"But if people believe we shouldn't be engaged in commerce in China... I look to the American government."

"Many multi-national corporations trade extensively with China and if that's ultimately how our government feels we should be dealing with China, again, we're a US company."

But Silver feared that the NBA's 15-year effort to build cultural ties with China and expand the game's reach there had been undermined by the Morey dispute.

"I felt we had made enormous progress in terms of building cultural exchanges with the Chinese people," Silver said.

"I have regret that much of that was lost."

China demanded that a Houston Rockets executive be sacked for supporting pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Thursday, adding that the league's row with Beijing had "substantial" financial consequences.

China demanded that a Houston Rockets executive be sacked for supporting pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Thursday, adding that the league's row with Beijing had "substantial" financial consequences. Rockets general manager Daryl Morey ignited a firestorm earlier this month with a tweeted image captioned "Fight for Freedom. Stand with Hong Kong." It came right before the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets arrived in China for what proved to be a tense two-game exhibition tour, with broadcasters there refusing to air the games, public protests against Morey's comments and local sponsors cutting ties with the NBA. Hong Kong has been rocked by months of demonstrations by citizens who accuse Beijing of chipping away at its freedoms, but China has portrayed the protesters as violent separatists and bristled at any foreign interference in the matter. The backlash in China against Morey's comments has cast a cloud over the NBA's lucrative broadcasting, merchandising and sponsorship interests in the country, where it has legions of fans. "We were being asked to fire him by the Chinese government, by the parties we dealt with, government and business," Silver said during a panel discussion in New York. "We said there's no chance that's happening. There's no chance we'll even discipline him." But the NBA chief said the dispute over Morey's actions had taken a big toll on the league's bottom line. "I don't know where we go from here," Silver said. "The financial consequences have been and may continue to be fairly dramatic. "The losses have already been substantial," he added. "Our games are not back on the air in China as we speak, and we'll see what happens next." Silver hit back at criticism of the NBA's early statements on the crisis, which many saw as overly deferential to Beijing. "We were saying we regretted upsetting our fans (but) also at the same time supporting Daryl Morey's right to express himself, right to tweet... Maybe I was trying too hard to be a diplomat. "There was no regret directed to the government (but instead) to our fans, hundreds of millions of them in China." Beijing's response to Morey's comments sparked US accusations that Beijing was using access to its vast market as leverage to dictate speech in other countries. Basketball superstar LeBron James, who traveled to China with the Lakers for the exhibition games, this week said Morey "wasn't educated" on the situation and suggested the Rockets executive should have kept his mouth shut. But Silver said Thursday that the league had a responsibility to defend freedom of speech. "The values of the NBA -- the American values, we are an American business -- travel with us wherever we go," he said. "And one of those values is free expression." Since the row began, the NBA has also found itself under pressure from US politicians and media outlets who have urged the league not to buckle under Chinese criticism or even to withdraw from the Chinese market completely. "I understand there's a point of view from some that we shouldn't be in business at all in China and I'd say from an intellectual standpoint that's fair," Silver said. "But if people believe we shouldn't be engaged in commerce in China... I look to the American government." "Many multi-national corporations trade extensively with China and if that's ultimately how our government feels we should be dealing with China, again, we're a US company." But Silver feared that the NBA's 15-year effort to build cultural ties with China and expand the game's reach there had been undermined by the Morey dispute. "I felt we had made enormous progress in terms of building cultural exchanges with the Chinese people," Silver said. "I have regret that much of that was lost."

China asked NBA to fire Houston Rockets executive over Hong Kong tweet: Adam Silver

Basketball followers on mainland China expressed anger at the US&nbsp;National Basketball Association on Wednesday after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-organisers-cancel-nba-fan-event-amid-free-speech-row-254851">fan event in Shanghai was canceled</a>, amid a&nbsp;row&nbsp;over&nbsp;free&nbsp;speech&nbsp;that has hurt the league's reputation in a key overseas market.

Chinese&nbsp;organisers scrapped the event on the eve of a planned exhibition game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets, as the&nbsp;fallout&nbsp;spread&nbsp;from&nbsp;a tweet by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey supporting recent protests in Hong Kong.

Pro-democracy demonstrators have taken to the streets of the city over fears that Beijing is undermining Hong Kong's "one country, two systems" formula, which gives residents greater&nbsp;freedom than mainland&nbsp;Chinese.

China has warned foreign governments to steer clear of the issue which they deem an "internal affair".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/despite-consequences-nba-boss-defends-values-in-china-row-254649">NBA&nbsp;Commissioner Adam Silver said on Tuesday</a> that the league supported Morey's right to exercise his&nbsp;freedom of expression, furthering angering&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;authorities.

"They (the&nbsp;NBA) have done something really stupid," said Bai Linfan, a 20-year-old fan in Shanghai. "This is something that is really about our nationality. That's the biggest thing. Cancelling these cooperations and exchanges is quite normal."

Another young fan, Li Xintong, said the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;needed to do more to understand China's view on the matter.

"If the pre-season match is cancelled, I don't really care, because I think this thing has already violated our country's bottom line about a few issues," he said.

"If the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;really wants to expand in China's market, they must understand&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;culture."

The reaction to the&nbsp;row&nbsp;has been very different in Hong Kong itself.

"I don't think he (Silver) is mixing up sports and politics. I think he was speaking as a US&nbsp;citizen on this occasion. I'm really grateful for his support and the support of the majority of US&nbsp;citizens," said&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;fan Keith Yuen.

For one fan hoping to catch a glimpse of the players in Shanghai, sport and politics should not be mixed.

"I don't know why political conflicts affect sporting events. Just because they don't want us to see Morey's comments on TV, the&nbsp;fans' night has been cancelled," said Yu Jie.

"I'm patriotic of course. I support (the view) that Hong Kong is part of China, but I just don't understand this."

Basketball followers on mainland China expressed anger at the US National Basketball Association on Wednesday after a fan event in Shanghai was canceled, amid a row over free speech that has hurt the league's reputation in a key overseas market.

Basketball followers on mainland China expressed anger at the US National Basketball Association on Wednesday after a fan event in Shanghai was canceled, amid a row over free speech that has hurt the league's reputation in a key overseas market. Chinese organisers scrapped the event on the eve of a planned exhibition game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets, as the fallout spread from a tweet by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey supporting recent protests in Hong Kong. Pro-democracy demonstrators have taken to the streets of the city over fears that Beijing is undermining Hong Kong's "one country, two systems" formula, which gives residents greater freedom than mainland Chinese. China has warned foreign governments to steer clear of the issue which they deem an "internal affair". NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said on Tuesday that the league supported Morey's right to exercise his freedom of expression, furthering angering Chinese authorities. "They (the NBA) have done something really stupid," said Bai Linfan, a 20-year-old fan in Shanghai. "This is something that is really about our nationality. That's the biggest thing. Cancelling these cooperations and exchanges is quite normal." Another young fan, Li Xintong, said the NBA needed to do more to understand China's view on the matter. "If the pre-season match is cancelled, I don't really care, because I think this thing has already violated our country's bottom line about a few issues," he said. "If the NBA really wants to expand in China's market, they must understand Chinese culture." The reaction to the row has been very different in Hong Kong itself. "I don't think he (Silver) is mixing up sports and politics. I think he was speaking as a US citizen on this occasion. I'm really grateful for his support and the support of the majority of US citizens," said NBA fan Keith Yuen. For one fan hoping to catch a glimpse of the players in Shanghai, sport and politics should not be mixed. "I don't know why political conflicts affect sporting events. Just because they don't want us to see Morey's comments on TV, the fans' night has been cancelled," said Yu Jie. "I'm patriotic of course. I support (the view) that Hong Kong is part of China, but I just don't understand this."

Chinese fans fume at NBA as fallout from free speech row spreads

Beijing sees red! Why Chinese sponsors, partners are cutting ties with NBA

NBA commissioner Adam Silver is ready to accept the consequences for defending freedom of speech, even if supporting those values means <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tv-drops-nba-exhibition-games-escalating-pressure-amid-tweet-uproar-254463">losing the riches that Chinese business partnerships</a> have brought the league.

Forty years after the Washington Bullets played exhibition games in Beijing and Shanghai as the first NBA club to visit China, the league and its lucrative relationship with the nation of 1.4 billion people faces its toughest test.

It's only the latest battle over values championed by Silver, the 57-year-old American who replaced David Stern as the NBA's boss in February 2014. He has banned an owner for life for racist remarks and moved an NBA All-Star Game over a law discriminating against the gay and transgender communities.

A socially conscious league whose biggest star players have criticized US President Donald Trump and shunned ceremonial White House visits,&nbsp;LeBron James famously calling Trump a "bum" in a 2017 tweet,&nbsp;was thrust into controversy again Friday when Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey tweeted: "Fight for Freedom. Stand with Hong Kong."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-protests-biggest-political-crisis-in-xi-jinpings-career-254353">Hong Kong has been rocked by protests</a> since June that were ignited by a now-scrapped plan to allow extraditions of criminal suspects to the mainland but snowballed into a movement calling for more democratic freedoms and police accountability.

Morey's tweet shattered some China sponsorships for the Rockets, retired Chinese star Yao Ming's former club. Chinese television dropped planned telecasts of NBA pre-season games in China.

Early NBA statements on the issue drew fire from US critics as overly capitulating, setting the stage for Silver to settle matters in Tokyo.

"The long-held values of the NBA are to support freedom of expression, and certainly freedom of expression by members of the NBA community," Silver said.

"I understand there are consequences from that exercise of, in essence, his freedom of speech. We will have to live with those consequences.

"It's my hope that for our Chinese fans and our partners in China, they will see those remarks in the context of now a three-decade, if not longer, relationship."

The same week that American television show "South Park" parodied US companies who cave into Chinese censorship for commercial gain, the NBA was challenged to put its values over its bottom line and stand up to financial backers.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver is ready to accept the consequences for defending freedom of speech, even if supporting those values means losing the riches that Chinese business partnerships have brought the league.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver is ready to accept the consequences for defending freedom of speech, even if supporting those values means losing the riches that Chinese business partnerships have brought the league. Forty years after the Washington Bullets played exhibition games in Beijing and Shanghai as the first NBA club to visit China, the league and its lucrative relationship with the nation of 1.4 billion people faces its toughest test. It's only the latest battle over values championed by Silver, the 57-year-old American who replaced David Stern as the NBA's boss in February 2014. He has banned an owner for life for racist remarks and moved an NBA All-Star Game over a law discriminating against the gay and transgender communities. A socially conscious league whose biggest star players have criticized US President Donald Trump and shunned ceremonial White House visits, LeBron James famously calling Trump a "bum" in a 2017 tweet, was thrust into controversy again Friday when Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey tweeted: "Fight for Freedom. Stand with Hong Kong." Hong Kong has been rocked by protests since June that were ignited by a now-scrapped plan to allow extraditions of criminal suspects to the mainland but snowballed into a movement calling for more democratic freedoms and police accountability. Morey's tweet shattered some China sponsorships for the Rockets, retired Chinese star Yao Ming's former club. Chinese television dropped planned telecasts of NBA pre-season games in China. Early NBA statements on the issue drew fire from US critics as overly capitulating, setting the stage for Silver to settle matters in Tokyo. "The long-held values of the NBA are to support freedom of expression, and certainly freedom of expression by members of the NBA community," Silver said. "I understand there are consequences from that exercise of, in essence, his freedom of speech. We will have to live with those consequences. "It's my hope that for our Chinese fans and our partners in China, they will see those remarks in the context of now a three-decade, if not longer, relationship." The same week that American television show "South Park" parodied US companies who cave into Chinese censorship for commercial gain, the NBA was challenged to put its values over its bottom line and stand up to financial backers.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver ready to 'live with consequences' over China row

Seconds after the NBA's first games in India ended, the packed Mumbai stadium erupted with cheers as spectators -- some of whom were still struggling to understand basketball etiquette -- rose to their feet.&nbsp;

In a country where cricket reigns supreme, basketball has long struggled to make a mark, and the NBA took no chances, launching a promotional blitzkrieg before the pre-season games between the Sacramento Kings and the Indiana Pacers.

As Indiana Pacers power forward Myles Turner, who helped his team to victories on Friday and Saturday, put it,&nbsp;&nbsp;"When you think of basketball, you don't necessarily think of India."

But the 7,000 sold-out seats and howls of enthusiasm at Saturday's match suggested that, at least for some Indians, basketball matters.

"It was an exhilarating experience... a brilliant experience," said 22-year-old graduate student Akash Saraswati, who saved up for his ticket costing more than $90.

Even a broken leg could not stop him travelling to Mumbai from the neighbouring city of Pune. "I didn't hesitate," he said.

Many of those who packed the stands were die-hard fans like Saraswati, travelling from as far afield as Delhi and Bangalore.

Others were there for a taste of something new, grappling with the rules as they watched the players dribble, dive and dunk.

"There's so much grace and effortless co-ordination among the players. It's beautiful to watch," said sales executive Rajesh Kamble, who admitted he was still trying to figure out the sport.

The game may have confused some, but the entertainment was familiar territory -- Bollywood dances replaced cheerleader routines and a Mumbai hip-hop group took over the floor before the tip-off.&nbsp;

The courtside audience included celebrities such as Bollywood superstar Priyanka Chopra-Jonas. The biggest ovation of the night, however, was for NBA legend Larry Bird, whose presence brought the crowd to its feet.

What happens once 'circus' leaves?

But questions remain about how much the NBA -- whose 2017-18 season revenue was a staggering $8 billion, according to Forbes -- is willing to invest in India and whether its audience will be restricted to hardcore fans and wealthy urbanites.

"The fact that the circus has come to town is a great thing," said Vishal Jhunjhunwala, partner at Mumbai-based sports marketing firm, Square Consulting.&nbsp;

"But what happens once the circus leaves town?

"You need a local connect, a superstar with Indian roots for basketball to take off. That doesn't exist at the moment, unlike say China where the presence of a star like Yao Ming galvanised his whole country into following the sport," Jhunjhunwala told AFP.

No Indian player has ever taken part in an NBA game and although NBA Commissioner Adam Silver told reporters that he hopes to see that change within five years, few are holding their breath.

And, unlike cricket which is played everywhere from India's slums to members’ clubs, basketball enjoys a limited appeal in the country of 1.3 billion people.

The cheapest ticket for Saturday's game cost 4,500 rupees ($65), going up to an astronomical 85,000 rupees for courtside seats. In comparison, a season pass for next week's second Test between India and South Africa in Pune tops out at 5,000 rupees.&nbsp;

Although the high price did not deter well-heeled sports fans, analysts say the NBA risks losing out on a huge chunk of India's audience if it doesn't build up mass appeal.

"You are asking people to spend a lot to watch a sport they don't know much about," said Jhunjhunwala.

To those in the stands, however, the spectacle was well worth the big bucks.

"I am a cricket fan but... basketball also has huge potential and hopefully this is the start of a new sporting journey", said 25-year-old Danish Contractor.

In his comments, the NBA's Silver said the games "required us bringing in a court, a scoreboard, seats, locker rooms" to Mumbai.

They will have to do much more if the sport is to have a long-term future in the country, experts say as the NBA pre-season Asia tour now heads off to Japan and China for further matches over the coming week.

"One game isn't going to turn India into a basketball-loving nation. But it's a first step," said Jhunjhunwala.

"If they lose money on it, well, they have deep pockets".

Seconds after the NBA's first games in India ended, the packed Mumbai stadium erupted with cheers as spectators -- some of whom were still struggling to understand basketball etiquette -- rose to their feet.

Seconds after the NBA's first games in India ended, the packed Mumbai stadium erupted with cheers as spectators -- some of whom were still struggling to understand basketball etiquette -- rose to their feet. In a country where cricket reigns supreme, basketball has long struggled to make a mark, and the NBA took no chances, launching a promotional blitzkrieg before the pre-season games between the Sacramento Kings and the Indiana Pacers. As Indiana Pacers power forward Myles Turner, who helped his team to victories on Friday and Saturday, put it, "When you think of basketball, you don't necessarily think of India." But the 7,000 sold-out seats and howls of enthusiasm at Saturday's match suggested that, at least for some Indians, basketball matters. "It was an exhilarating experience... a brilliant experience," said 22-year-old graduate student Akash Saraswati, who saved up for his ticket costing more than $90. Even a broken leg could not stop him travelling to Mumbai from the neighbouring city of Pune. "I didn't hesitate," he said. Many of those who packed the stands were die-hard fans like Saraswati, travelling from as far afield as Delhi and Bangalore. Others were there for a taste of something new, grappling with the rules as they watched the players dribble, dive and dunk. "There's so much grace and effortless co-ordination among the players. It's beautiful to watch," said sales executive Rajesh Kamble, who admitted he was still trying to figure out the sport. The game may have confused some, but the entertainment was familiar territory -- Bollywood dances replaced cheerleader routines and a Mumbai hip-hop group took over the floor before the tip-off. The courtside audience included celebrities such as Bollywood superstar Priyanka Chopra-Jonas. The biggest ovation of the night, however, was for NBA legend Larry Bird, whose presence brought the crowd to its feet. What happens once 'circus' leaves? But questions remain about how much the NBA -- whose 2017-18 season revenue was a staggering $8 billion, according to Forbes -- is willing to invest in India and whether its audience will be restricted to hardcore fans and wealthy urbanites. "The fact that the circus has come to town is a great thing," said Vishal Jhunjhunwala, partner at Mumbai-based sports marketing firm, Square Consulting. "But what happens once the circus leaves town? "You need a local connect, a superstar with Indian roots for basketball to take off. That doesn't exist at the moment, unlike say China where the presence of a star like Yao Ming galvanised his whole country into following the sport," Jhunjhunwala told AFP. No Indian player has ever taken part in an NBA game and although NBA Commissioner Adam Silver told reporters that he hopes to see that change within five years, few are holding their breath. And, unlike cricket which is played everywhere from India's slums to members’ clubs, basketball enjoys a limited appeal in the country of 1.3 billion people. The cheapest ticket for Saturday's game cost 4,500 rupees ($65), going up to an astronomical 85,000 rupees for courtside seats. In comparison, a season pass for next week's second Test between India and South Africa in Pune tops out at 5,000 rupees. Although the high price did not deter well-heeled sports fans, analysts say the NBA risks losing out on a huge chunk of India's audience if it doesn't build up mass appeal. "You are asking people to spend a lot to watch a sport they don't know much about," said Jhunjhunwala. To those in the stands, however, the spectacle was well worth the big bucks. "I am a cricket fan but... basketball also has huge potential and hopefully this is the start of a new sporting journey", said 25-year-old Danish Contractor. In his comments, the NBA's Silver said the games "required us bringing in a court, a scoreboard, seats, locker rooms" to Mumbai. They will have to do much more if the sport is to have a long-term future in the country, experts say as the NBA pre-season Asia tour now heads off to Japan and China for further matches over the coming week. "One game isn't going to turn India into a basketball-loving nation. But it's a first step," said Jhunjhunwala. "If they lose money on it, well, they have deep pockets".

NBA scores on debut in cricket-mad India but questions remain

Spain brushed aside Argentina 95-75 in China on Sunday to win the&nbsp;Basketball&nbsp;World Cup.

Three-time All-Star Marc Gasol became only the second man to win an NBA crown and the World Cup in the same year.

The champions, who survived double overtime against Australia to reach the final, led throughout in Beijing to win international&nbsp;basketball's biggest prize for a second time.

The only previous occasion was in 2006 with the two Gasol brothers, Marc and older sibling Pau, on the team.

Pau did not feature in China because of injury.

The latest triumph was particularly sweet for the 34-year-old centre Gasol, who three months ago also played a key part in the Toronto Raptors' run to the NBA title.

Gasol, who had 14 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, joins Lamar Odom, a double winner in 2010 with the United States and Los Angeles Lakers.

Surprise finalists Argentina had not triumphed since they hosted the inaugural World Cup in 1950.&nbsp;

As a contest, the final was over by the fourth quarter -- although the Argentines did rally belatedly to reduce Spain's previously mighty lead. &nbsp;

Fans of both teams had made it feel more like a football match, decked out in their national colours, chanting loudly and refusing to sit down.

Spain, for whom Ricky Rubio of the Phoenix Suns has been one of the leading players of the tournament in China, surged into a 14-2 lead.

In front of a capacity crowd, Argentina's 39-year-old talisman Luis Scola could not escape the attentions of Pierre Oriola. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Led by their slick-haired Italian coach Sergio Scariolo, Spain were up 21-14 going into the second quarter and increased their advantage to 43-31 at half-time.

With Rubio prominent, drilling 20 points, Spain never looked like surrendering their lead, repeatedly thwarting Argentina's suffocated offence.

- Australia wait goes on - 
France roared back after half-time to defeat Australia 67-59 and claim a second World Cup bronze in a row -- and extend the Boomers' long wait for a major medal.

Turkish-based guard Nando De Colo led all scorers with 19 points for France and Nicolas Batum had nine points, six assists, three rebounds and three steals.

The French, one of the tallest teams at the tournament, defeated reigning two-time holders the United States in the quarter-finals, but then lost heavily to Argentina.

"For us it's something very, very special and important we did it after a very difficult first half," French coach Vincent Collet said.

"Many teams could have given up, even easy shots we were missing in the first half.

"We started to move the ball better in the second half and that's why we won this game."

It was hard on Australia, who similarly led for long periods in their semi-final against Spain.

It is still the best finish for the Boomers, who had never gone beyond the quarter-finals at 11 previous World Cups, but they are yet to claim a medal at the worlds or Olympics.

Deposed champions the United States, who were missing their elite names, finished seventh, their lowest position in tournament history.

They did, at least, qualify to defend their Olympic title in Tokyo next summer.

With 32 teams, this was the biggest Basketball World Cup ever.

The next one will be in 2023 in Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines.&nbsp;

Spain brushed aside Argentina 95-75 in China on Sunday to win the Basketball World Cup. Three-time All-Star Marc Gasol became only the second man to win an NBA crown and the World Cup in the same year.

Spain brushed aside Argentina 95-75 in China on Sunday to win the Basketball World Cup. Three-time All-Star Marc Gasol became only the second man to win an NBA crown and the World Cup in the same year. The champions, who survived double overtime against Australia to reach the final, led throughout in Beijing to win international basketball's biggest prize for a second time. The only previous occasion was in 2006 with the two Gasol brothers, Marc and older sibling Pau, on the team. Pau did not feature in China because of injury. The latest triumph was particularly sweet for the 34-year-old centre Gasol, who three months ago also played a key part in the Toronto Raptors' run to the NBA title. Gasol, who had 14 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, joins Lamar Odom, a double winner in 2010 with the United States and Los Angeles Lakers. Surprise finalists Argentina had not triumphed since they hosted the inaugural World Cup in 1950. As a contest, the final was over by the fourth quarter -- although the Argentines did rally belatedly to reduce Spain's previously mighty lead. Fans of both teams had made it feel more like a football match, decked out in their national colours, chanting loudly and refusing to sit down. Spain, for whom Ricky Rubio of the Phoenix Suns has been one of the leading players of the tournament in China, surged into a 14-2 lead. In front of a capacity crowd, Argentina's 39-year-old talisman Luis Scola could not escape the attentions of Pierre Oriola. Led by their slick-haired Italian coach Sergio Scariolo, Spain were up 21-14 going into the second quarter and increased their advantage to 43-31 at half-time. With Rubio prominent, drilling 20 points, Spain never looked like surrendering their lead, repeatedly thwarting Argentina's suffocated offence. - Australia wait goes on - France roared back after half-time to defeat Australia 67-59 and claim a second World Cup bronze in a row -- and extend the Boomers' long wait for a major medal. Turkish-based guard Nando De Colo led all scorers with 19 points for France and Nicolas Batum had nine points, six assists, three rebounds and three steals. The French, one of the tallest teams at the tournament, defeated reigning two-time holders the United States in the quarter-finals, but then lost heavily to Argentina. "For us it's something very, very special and important we did it after a very difficult first half," French coach Vincent Collet said. "Many teams could have given up, even easy shots we were missing in the first half. "We started to move the ball better in the second half and that's why we won this game." It was hard on Australia, who similarly led for long periods in their semi-final against Spain. It is still the best finish for the Boomers, who had never gone beyond the quarter-finals at 11 previous World Cups, but they are yet to claim a medal at the worlds or Olympics. Deposed champions the United States, who were missing their elite names, finished seventh, their lowest position in tournament history. They did, at least, qualify to defend their Olympic title in Tokyo next summer. With 32 teams, this was the biggest Basketball World Cup ever. The next one will be in 2023 in Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Spain beat Argentina 95-75 to win Basketball World Cup

Oscar-winner Russell Crowe led a chorus of criticism Friday of the seating arrangements at a basketball clash between the United States and Australia, with many fans paying big money to see very little.

The pre-World Cup showdown, on Thursday evening at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium, was played in front of 51,000 fans — the biggest crowd ever to watch a game of hoops in Australia.

But in a venue that usually hosts Australian Rules and football, a raised basketball court was dropped in meaning those on white plastic seats at ground level had restricted viewing, including Crowe.

"$1500 a ticket for this view. AUS v USA. Jokes on me," tweeted the Hollywood star after Australia were beaten 102-86. "If you weren't among 50,000 there and you chose to watch it on tv at home, good decision."

He later added, "The only thing achieved by @BasketballAus was enjoining with the promoters in ripping off well-meaning lovers of the sport. It was a farce."

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$1500 a ticket for this view. AUS v USA . 
Jokes on me. 
If you weren’t among 50,000 there and you chose to watch it on tv at home, good decision . <a href="https://t.co/VlNuXWp6iI">pic.twitter.com/VlNuXWp6iI</a>
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) <a href="https://twitter.com/russellcrowe/status/1164514917241651200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The only thing achieved tonight by <a href="https://twitter.com/BasketballAus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BasketballAus</a> was enjoining with the promoters in ripping off well meaning lovers of the sport. It was a farce. <a href="https://t.co/M04iiL26Xm">https://t.co/M04iiL26Xm</a>
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) <a href="https://twitter.com/russellcrowe/status/1164535345095958529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Lots of talk already about the view from ground level at Marvel Stadium where ticket holders paid hundreds of dollars to see <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoomersUSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoomersUSA</a>. This is the view... <a href="https://t.co/KUpXuYFahM">https://t.co/KUpXuYFahM</a> <a href="https://t.co/m8Zh3mMPxa">pic.twitter.com/m8Zh3mMPxa</a>
— Rohan Smith (@Ro_Smith) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ro_Smith/status/1164429343155576833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Plenty of other fans agreed.

"It's called greed! There is a stadium across town which is purpose built for this kind of event called Rod Laver Arena capacity of 15,000. Play 2-3 games there everyone goes home happy," said one Twitter user.

The visit of Team USA was already embroiled in controversy, with Australia's consumer watchdog launching a probe into the use of absent NBA superstars to promote their exhibition games.

While the USA boast a host of top young talent guided by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, they lack top names used to sell the event after a series of player withdrawals.

A change.org petition for refunds attracted more than 2,700 supporters claiming they had been ripped off, with a fresh flood of complaints about the seating fiasco.

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chief Rod Sims said it was investigating whether people had been misled.

"We did&nbsp;have discussions with the promoters,&nbsp;and out of those discussions there&nbsp;was a suggestion from them of&nbsp;refunds," he told reporters, referring to the pre-game advertising.

"We've now added to that&nbsp;investigation whether or not&nbsp;consumers have been misled over the seating and the quality of the&nbsp;seating."

He added that the commission takes such allegations "very seriously" with the potential penalties "significant".

The promoters, TEG Live, and Basketball Australia had no immediate comment.

Australia and the United States play a second game at the same venue on Saturday.

Oscar-winner Russell Crowe led a chorus of criticism Friday of the seating arrangements at a basketball clash between the United States and Australia, with many fans paying big money to see very little.

Oscar-winner Russell Crowe led a chorus of criticism Friday of the seating arrangements at a basketball clash between the United States and Australia, with many fans paying big money to see very little. The pre-World Cup showdown, on Thursday evening at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium, was played in front of 51,000 fans — the biggest crowd ever to watch a game of hoops in Australia. But in a venue that usually hosts Australian Rules and football, a raised basketball court was dropped in meaning those on white plastic seats at ground level had restricted viewing, including Crowe. "$1500 a ticket for this view. AUS v USA. Jokes on me," tweeted the Hollywood star after Australia were beaten 102-86. "If you weren't among 50,000 there and you chose to watch it on tv at home, good decision." He later added, "The only thing achieved by @BasketballAus was enjoining with the promoters in ripping off well-meaning lovers of the sport. It was a farce." $1500 a ticket for this view. AUS v USA . Jokes on me. If you weren’t among 50,000 there and you chose to watch it on tv at home, good decision . pic.twitter.com/VlNuXWp6iI — Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) August 22, 2019 × The only thing achieved tonight by @BasketballAus was enjoining with the promoters in ripping off well meaning lovers of the sport. It was a farce. https://t.co/M04iiL26Xm — Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) August 22, 2019 × Lots of talk already about the view from ground level at Marvel Stadium where ticket holders paid hundreds of dollars to see #BoomersUSA. This is the view... https://t.co/KUpXuYFahM pic.twitter.com/m8Zh3mMPxa — Rohan Smith (@Ro_Smith) August 22, 2019 × Plenty of other fans agreed. "It's called greed! There is a stadium across town which is purpose built for this kind of event called Rod Laver Arena capacity of 15,000. Play 2-3 games there everyone goes home happy," said one Twitter user. The visit of Team USA was already embroiled in controversy, with Australia's consumer watchdog launching a probe into the use of absent NBA superstars to promote their exhibition games. While the USA boast a host of top young talent guided by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, they lack top names used to sell the event after a series of player withdrawals. A change.org petition for refunds attracted more than 2,700 supporters claiming they had been ripped off, with a fresh flood of complaints about the seating fiasco. Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chief Rod Sims said it was investigating whether people had been misled. "We did have discussions with the promoters, and out of those discussions there was a suggestion from them of refunds," he told reporters, referring to the pre-game advertising. "We've now added to that investigation whether or not consumers have been misled over the seating and the quality of the seating." He added that the commission takes such allegations "very seriously" with the potential penalties "significant". The promoters, TEG Live, and Basketball Australia had no immediate comment. Australia and the United States play a second game at the same venue on Saturday.

Russell Crowe slams 'joke' seating at USA-Australia basketball

A basketball jersey once owned by former US president Barack Obama sold Monday for $120,000, according to the Dallas auction house that sold it.

The number 23 jersey belonged to 18-year-old Obama while he was a senior at Punahou high school in Hawaii, where he lived at the time, according to Heritage Auctions.

The jersey was valued at $100,000 before it was sold.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STILLMYPRESIDENT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STILLMYPRESIDENT</a><a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BarackObama</a>❣️🙌 
 
From Discover on Google <a href="https://t.co/SQCebG8HfX">https://t.co/SQCebG8HfX</a>
— 🗽SABRINA DONALD-CORKER🗽#RESIST✊👊🦁🐅🏳️‍🌈 (@MARRIEDRESISTER) <a href="https://twitter.com/MARRIEDRESISTER/status/1163208323832918021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Obama is a known basketball fan and was often seen playing during his tenure at the White House, with presidential staffers, celebrities or other guests.

A basketball jersey once owned by former US president Barack Obama sold Monday for $120,000, according to the Dallas auction house that sold it. The number 23 jersey belonged to 18-year-old Obama while he was a senior at Punahou high school in Hawaii, where he lived at the time, according to Heritage Auctions.

A basketball jersey once owned by former US president Barack Obama sold Monday for $120,000, according to the Dallas auction house that sold it. The number 23 jersey belonged to 18-year-old Obama while he was a senior at Punahou high school in Hawaii, where he lived at the time, according to Heritage Auctions. The jersey was valued at $100,000 before it was sold. #STILLMYPRESIDENT@BarackObama❣️🙌 From Discover on Google https://t.co/SQCebG8HfX — 🗽SABRINA DONALD-CORKER🗽#RESIST✊👊🦁🐅🏳️‍🌈 (@MARRIEDRESISTER) August 18, 2019 × Obama is a known basketball fan and was often seen playing during his tenure at the White House, with presidential staffers, celebrities or other guests.

Former US president Barack Obama's basketball jersey sells for $120,000

Ulysses Lee 'Junior'&nbsp;Bridgeman, a former US&nbsp;basketball player who became a fast-food mogul, is in the lead to acquire Sports Illustrated magazine from US&nbsp;media company Meredith Corp for about $150 million, people familiar with the matter said on Friday.&nbsp;

The deal would be the result of a review that Meredith is carrying out in its portfolio, following its $1.84 billion acquisition of Time Inc last year. It has already sold off its Time and Fortune magazines and is exploring a sale of Money Magazine.&nbsp;

Bridgeman is in the final stages of negotiating a deal for Sports Illustrated after lining up acquisition financing, the sources added. If his effort is successful, a deal announcement could come by the end of the year, according to the sources.

One aspect of the deal still being hashed out in the negotiations is the outsourcing agreements related to printing and paper costs of the magazine, one of the sources said. These discussions are common when a buyer who does not own a media company purchases a magazine, the source added.&nbsp;

For example, when Marc and Lynne Benioff bought Time magazine for $190 million in cash in September, Meredith entered into a multiyear agreement with them to provide services such as subscription fulfilment, paper purchasing and printing.

The sources asked not to be identified because the matter is confidential. Bridgeman and Meredith declined to comment. Sports Illustrated did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A Bridgeman purchase of Sports Illustrated would be the latest example of a wealthy individual taking over a storied media brand that has declined in profitability and influence since its peak years.&nbsp;

Amazon.com Inc founder Jeff Bezos bought the Washington Post in 2013 for $250 million. Earlier this year, Marc Benioff, founder of Salesforce.com, bought Time Magazine from Meredith for $190 million. Chatchaval Jiaravanon, a Thai businessman, bought Fortune for $150 million.

Meredith, which owns lifestyle magazines such as Better Homes &amp; Gardens and Family Circle, also said it would cut more than 1,000 jobs in the wake of the merger. The sale of Sports Illustrated would further Meredith`s push to streamline its business by shedding brands that have less appeal to its core readership, which is predominantly female.&nbsp;

First published in 1954, Sports Illustrated is a US&nbsp;magazine brand best known for its annual swimsuit issue. It has nearly 3 million subscribers but has been scaling back in recent years, reducing its print edition to 24 issues annually, in the face of pressure from online media.&nbsp;

With its roots in traditional publishing, Meredith has been facing a fierce competitive online race against internet giants such as Alphabet Inc’s Google and Facebook Inc for consumer eyeballs and advertising dollars.

Bridgeman played for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Clippers during his career with the National Basketball Association, which ran from 1975 to 1987. He later began acquiring Chili`s and Wendy`s restaurant franchises, which he sold for $400 million in 2016.&nbsp;

The New York Post reported in October that 'there is buzz'&nbsp;that Bridgeman was closing in on a deal to buy Sports Illustrated from Meredith.

Ulysses Lee 'Junior' Bridgeman, a former US basketball player who became a fast-food mogul, is in the lead to acquire Sports Illustrated magazine from US media company Meredith Corp for about $150 million, people familiar with the matter said on Friday.

Ulysses Lee 'Junior' Bridgeman, a former US basketball player who became a fast-food mogul, is in the lead to acquire Sports Illustrated magazine from US media company Meredith Corp for about $150 million, people familiar with the matter said on Friday. The deal would be the result of a review that Meredith is carrying out in its portfolio, following its $1.84 billion acquisition of Time Inc last year. It has already sold off its Time and Fortune magazines and is exploring a sale of Money Magazine. Bridgeman is in the final stages of negotiating a deal for Sports Illustrated after lining up acquisition financing, the sources added. If his effort is successful, a deal announcement could come by the end of the year, according to the sources. One aspect of the deal still being hashed out in the negotiations is the outsourcing agreements related to printing and paper costs of the magazine, one of the sources said. These discussions are common when a buyer who does not own a media company purchases a magazine, the source added. For example, when Marc and Lynne Benioff bought Time magazine for $190 million in cash in September, Meredith entered into a multiyear agreement with them to provide services such as subscription fulfilment, paper purchasing and printing. The sources asked not to be identified because the matter is confidential. Bridgeman and Meredith declined to comment. Sports Illustrated did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A Bridgeman purchase of Sports Illustrated would be the latest example of a wealthy individual taking over a storied media brand that has declined in profitability and influence since its peak years. Amazon.com Inc founder Jeff Bezos bought the Washington Post in 2013 for $250 million. Earlier this year, Marc Benioff, founder of Salesforce.com, bought Time Magazine from Meredith for $190 million. Chatchaval Jiaravanon, a Thai businessman, bought Fortune for $150 million. Meredith, which owns lifestyle magazines such as Better Homes & Gardens and Family Circle, also said it would cut more than 1,000 jobs in the wake of the merger. The sale of Sports Illustrated would further Meredith`s push to streamline its business by shedding brands that have less appeal to its core readership, which is predominantly female. First published in 1954, Sports Illustrated is a US magazine brand best known for its annual swimsuit issue. It has nearly 3 million subscribers but has been scaling back in recent years, reducing its print edition to 24 issues annually, in the face of pressure from online media. With its roots in traditional publishing, Meredith has been facing a fierce competitive online race against internet giants such as Alphabet Inc’s Google and Facebook Inc for consumer eyeballs and advertising dollars. Bridgeman played for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Clippers during his career with the National Basketball Association, which ran from 1975 to 1987. He later began acquiring Chili`s and Wendy`s restaurant franchises, which he sold for $400 million in 2016. The New York Post reported in October that 'there is buzz' that Bridgeman was closing in on a deal to buy Sports Illustrated from Meredith.

Former NBA player Bridgeman in the lead to buy Sports Illustrated magazine

Retired basketball superstar Kobe Bryant-- once the toast of Los Angeles for the Lakers -- is now a Hollywood A-lister with an Oscar.&nbsp;

Yes, you read that correctly.

Nearly two years after leaving the NBA, the 39-year-old Bryant&nbsp;won the Academy Award for best animated short on Sunday for &quot;Dear Basketball,&quot; a collaboration with artist Glen Keane and legendary composer John Williams.

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Sport takes us beyond the lines. Congrats, <a href="https://twitter.com/kobebryant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kobebryant</a> for your award for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DearBasketball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DearBasketball</a> ???????????????????????? <a href="https://t.co/ljeOqzSuBM">pic.twitter.com/ljeOqzSuBM</a>
&mdash; Nike Basketball (@nikebasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/nikebasketball/status/970506515936194561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;Thank you, Academy, for this amazing honour. Thank you, John Williams, for a wonderful piece of music,&quot;&nbsp;Bryant said.

In a sardonic reference to an attack by Fox News presenter Laura Ingraham against basketballers expressing their political opinions, he said he thought NBA stars were &quot;really supposed to shut up and dribble.&quot;&nbsp;

&quot;I&#39;m glad we do a little bit more than that,&quot; he added.

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Salute <a href="https://twitter.com/kobebryant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kobebryant</a> on that Oscar!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreMoreThanShutUpDribble?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreMoreThanShutUpDribble</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UJustContinueToSitBackAndWatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UJustContinueToSitBackAndWatch</a>
&mdash; LeBron James (@KingJames) <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames/status/970500221875736576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Awards prediction website Gold Derby had&nbsp;Bryant as the odds-on favourite to win the Oscar for best animated short, but his triumph is unlikely to please everyone.&nbsp;

In the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, it will be a reminder that&nbsp;Bryant was arrested&nbsp;over the suspected rape of a 19-year-old hotel worker in Colorado in 2003.&nbsp;

Bryant admitted to a sexual encounter but insisted it was consensual. The criminal case was dropped when the accuser refused to testify, but&nbsp;Bryant faced a civil suit.&nbsp;

As part of an out-of-court settlement, he publicly apologized to his accuser but admitted no guilt.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MambaMentality?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MambaMentality</a> meets the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Oscars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Oscars</a>. Congrats on last night&#39;s win, <a href="https://twitter.com/kobebryant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kobebryant</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyEaglesFly?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyEaglesFly</a> <a href="https://t.co/zc8b3jxMcd">pic.twitter.com/zc8b3jxMcd</a>
&mdash; Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eagles/status/970774662849400838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Kobe Bryant was recognised for a five-minute film produced in collaboration with artist Glen Keane and composer John Williams for the short 'Dear Basketball'

Retired basketball superstar Kobe Bryant-- once the toast of Los Angeles for the Lakers -- is now a Hollywood A-lister with an Oscar. Yes, you read that correctly. Nearly two years after leaving the NBA, the 39-year-old Bryant won the Academy Award for best animated short on Sunday for "Dear Basketball," a collaboration with artist Glen Keane and legendary composer John Williams. Sport takes us beyond the lines. Congrats, @kobebryant for your award for #DearBasketball ???????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/ljeOqzSuBM — Nike Basketball (@nikebasketball) March 5, 2018 × "Thank you, Academy, for this amazing honour. Thank you, John Williams, for a wonderful piece of music," Bryant said. In a sardonic reference to an attack by Fox News presenter Laura Ingraham against basketballers expressing their political opinions, he said he thought NBA stars were "really supposed to shut up and dribble." "I'm glad we do a little bit more than that," he added. Salute @kobebryant on that Oscar!! #WeAreMoreThanShutUpDribble #UJustContinueToSitBackAndWatch — LeBron James (@KingJames) March 5, 2018 × Awards prediction website Gold Derby had Bryant as the odds-on favourite to win the Oscar for best animated short, but his triumph is unlikely to please everyone. In the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, it will be a reminder that Bryant was arrested over the suspected rape of a 19-year-old hotel worker in Colorado in 2003. Bryant admitted to a sexual encounter but insisted it was consensual. The criminal case was dropped when the accuser refused to testify, but Bryant faced a civil suit. As part of an out-of-court settlement, he publicly apologized to his accuser but admitted no guilt. #MambaMentality meets the #Oscars. Congrats on last night's win, @kobebryant!#FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/zc8b3jxMcd — Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) March 5, 2018 ×

NBA legend Kobe Bryant wins Oscar for best animated short

The magic of Baahubali is not just limited to India but has spread far and wide. Baahubali: The Conclusion may have released in April, but its impact can be seen even now.&nbsp; 
 
Recently, a group of Indian teenagers performed during the halftime of an NBA game in Orlando to the title song of Baahubali. The result was epic as audience loudly cheered the young dancers as they took over the court.&nbsp; 
 
The video was shared on NBA&#39;s official Facebook page as well as Baahubali&#39;s official twitter handle.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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The performance started with Baahubali title track and ended with the Ghoomar&nbsp;song from the film Padmavati.&nbsp; 
 
The footage has already got over 7.42 lakh views on Facebook. The young group has been identified as the winners of Bollywood Magic, Top Naach.&nbsp;

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Dressed in traditional outfits, the dancers not only won hearts at the stadium but also on the internet with people praising their performance.&nbsp;

The magic of Baahubali is not just limited to India but has spread far and wide

The magic of Baahubali is not just limited to India but has spread far and wide. Baahubali: The Conclusion may have released in April, but its impact can be seen even now. Recently, a group of Indian teenagers performed during the halftime of an NBA game in Orlando to the title song of Baahubali. The result was epic as audience loudly cheered the young dancers as they took over the court. The video was shared on NBA's official Facebook page as well as Baahubali's official twitter handle. × The performance started with Baahubali title track and ended with the Ghoomar song from the film Padmavati. The footage has already got over 7.42 lakh views on Facebook. The young group has been identified as the winners of Bollywood Magic, Top Naach. × Dressed in traditional outfits, the dancers not only won hearts at the stadium but also on the internet with people praising their performance.

Baahubali reaches NBA: Indian dancers present an epic performance on the title track at half-time

LeBron James has agreed to a three-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, which will likely make him the highest-paid player in the National Basketball Association. 
 
&quot;I just want to let you all know I&#39;m re-signing back with the Cleveland Cavaliers, my hometown team,&quot; James said on his multi-media website Uninterrupted. &quot;I can&#39;t be more excited than this opportunity once again, man, to defend our crown, defend our title... just get the band back together.&quot; 
 
James, a three-time NBA champion, did not release details of the contract but US sports broadcaster ESPN reported that it was worth $100 million and would pay him $31 million in the first year and $33 million in the second, making him the league&#39;s highest-paid player for the first time in his career. 
 
James has signed a pair of one-year deals with the Cavaliers over the past few years. He chose to go with a longer term deal in Cleveland, his hometown, because of the Cavs&#39; success. 
 
&quot;We all know last year (was) magical, inspiring, all the words you can come up with. It was an unbelievable season,&quot; said the Cavaliers&#39; all-time leading scorer. &quot;I just can&#39;t wait to get the group back together, the team, the franchise, more importantly, get everybody together. The fans. Without you guys, without your passion and commitment, we wouldn&#39;t have been able to do what we did this past season. I&#39;m ecstatic.&quot; 
 
Nothing is official as the three-time NBA finals MVP isn&#39;t expected to sign the new deal until next week when he returns to Cleveland for a charity event, ESPN said. James also said he hopes the team can convince free agent guard JR Smith to return next season. 
 
(AFP)

'I just want to let you all know I'm re-signing back with the Cleveland Cavaliers, my hometown team,' James said on his website Uninterrupted

LeBron James has agreed to a three-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, which will likely make him the highest-paid player in the National Basketball Association. "I just want to let you all know I'm re-signing back with the Cleveland Cavaliers, my hometown team," James said on his multi-media website Uninterrupted. "I can't be more excited than this opportunity once again, man, to defend our crown, defend our title... just get the band back together." James, a three-time NBA champion, did not release details of the contract but US sports broadcaster ESPN reported that it was worth $100 million and would pay him $31 million in the first year and $33 million in the second, making him the league's highest-paid player for the first time in his career. James has signed a pair of one-year deals with the Cavaliers over the past few years. He chose to go with a longer term deal in Cleveland, his hometown, because of the Cavs' success. "We all know last year (was) magical, inspiring, all the words you can come up with. It was an unbelievable season," said the Cavaliers' all-time leading scorer. "I just can't wait to get the group back together, the team, the franchise, more importantly, get everybody together. The fans. Without you guys, without your passion and commitment, we wouldn't have been able to do what we did this past season. I'm ecstatic." Nothing is official as the three-time NBA finals MVP isn't expected to sign the new deal until next week when he returns to Cleveland for a charity event, ESPN said. James also said he hopes the team can convince free agent guard JR Smith to return next season. (AFP)

LeBron James to sign $100 million deal with Cavaliers

San Antonio&nbsp;Spurs long time coach Gregg Popovich described five-time NBA champion Tim Duncan on Tuesday as the best example of a leader any coach in the NBA could hope for. 
 
&quot;He&#39;s the most real, consistent and true person I&#39;ve met in my life,&quot; Popovich said. &quot;When he speaks it&#39;s for a purpose. He led by example.&quot; 
 
Popovich was speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, 24 hours after Duncan, who is considered one of the greatest players in history, announced his retirement, ending 19 brilliant seasons with the Spurs. 
 
Duncan and Popovich formed one of the most successful duos in National Basketball Association history, accounting for the most wins ever by a player-coach combination at 1,001. 
 
&quot;I figured I better come out and do this and somehow say goodbye to him, which is an impossibility for a lot of reasons,&quot; said Popovich, who wore a black shirt with a picture of Duncan that read &quot;Impossible Is Potential&quot;. &quot;He&#39;s been the best teammate anyone could ever imagine.&quot; 
 
Duncan wasn&#39;t present for the news conference. 
 
The 40-year-old Duncan, who was selected as the first overall pick in the 1997 NBA draft, spent his entire career with the Spurs, an anomaly in a league where players often change teams.&nbsp;The Spurs reached the playoffs in every one of his 19 seasons. 
 
&quot;I would not be standing here if it wasn&#39;t for Tim Duncan,&quot; Popovich said. 
 
&quot;I&#39;d be in the Budweiser League someplace in America, fat and still trying to play basketball or coach basketball.&nbsp;But he&#39;s why I&#39;m standing. He&#39;s made livings for hundreds of us, staff and coaches, over the years and never said a word, just came to work every day.&nbsp;Came early, stayed late, was there for every single person, from the top of the roster to the bottom of the roster.&quot; 
 
Duncan, also teamed with Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili to form one of the most successful trios in NBA history. They hold the league record for regular season wins (575) and postseason wins (126). 
 
Duncan, a three-time NBA Finals MVP and a two-time regular season MVP, led San Antonio to titles in 1999, 2003, 2006, 2007 and 2014.&nbsp;The Spurs posted a 1,072-438 regular-season record since drafting Duncan, the best 19-year run in league history. 
 
(AFP) 
 
&nbsp;

Duncan and Popovich formed one of the most successful duos in National Basketball Association history, accounting for the most wins ever by a player-coach combination at 1,001

San Antonio Spurs long time coach Gregg Popovich described five-time NBA champion Tim Duncan on Tuesday as the best example of a leader any coach in the NBA could hope for. "He's the most real, consistent and true person I've met in my life," Popovich said. "When he speaks it's for a purpose. He led by example." Popovich was speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, 24 hours after Duncan, who is considered one of the greatest players in history, announced his retirement, ending 19 brilliant seasons with the Spurs. Duncan and Popovich formed one of the most successful duos in National Basketball Association history, accounting for the most wins ever by a player-coach combination at 1,001. "I figured I better come out and do this and somehow say goodbye to him, which is an impossibility for a lot of reasons," said Popovich, who wore a black shirt with a picture of Duncan that read "Impossible Is Potential". "He's been the best teammate anyone could ever imagine." Duncan wasn't present for the news conference. The 40-year-old Duncan, who was selected as the first overall pick in the 1997 NBA draft, spent his entire career with the Spurs, an anomaly in a league where players often change teams. The Spurs reached the playoffs in every one of his 19 seasons. "I would not be standing here if it wasn't for Tim Duncan," Popovich said. "I'd be in the Budweiser League someplace in America, fat and still trying to play basketball or coach basketball. But he's why I'm standing. He's made livings for hundreds of us, staff and coaches, over the years and never said a word, just came to work every day. Came early, stayed late, was there for every single person, from the top of the roster to the bottom of the roster." Duncan, also teamed with Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili to form one of the most successful trios in NBA history. They hold the league record for regular season wins (575) and postseason wins (126). Duncan, a three-time NBA Finals MVP and a two-time regular season MVP, led San Antonio to titles in 1999, 2003, 2006, 2007 and 2014. The Spurs posted a 1,072-438 regular-season record since drafting Duncan, the best 19-year run in league history. (AFP)

Spurs coach Popovich bids farewell to Duncan

Former NBA Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant, the biggest prize on the free agent market, announced on Monday that he will join the Golden State Warriors. 
 
Durant, a four-times league scoring champion and seven-times All-Star who spent the first nine years of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise, said in a piece posted on the Players&#39; Tribune website that this has been the most challenging time of his professional life. 
 
&quot;The primary mandate I had for myself in making this decision was to have it based on the potential for my growth as a player - as that has always steered me in the right direction,&quot; Durant wrote. 
 
&quot;But I am also at a point in my life where it is of equal importance to find an opportunity that encourages my evolution as a man: moving out of my comfort zone to a new city and community which offers the greatest potential for my contribution and personal growth,&quot; he further confided in the piece and added, &quot;With this in mind, I have decided that I am going to join the Golden State Warriors.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
Durant, whose former Thunder team came one win short of reaching the 2016 NBA Finals, met with Oklahoma City, Golden State, Los Angeles Clippers, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs and Miami Heat before making his decision. 
 
He joins a Warriors team that includes reigning league MVP Stephen Curry, won the NBA title in 2015 and finished runner-up in 2016 after a remarkable campaign in which they had a record 73 wins during the 82-game regular season. 
 
Terms of the deal were not disclosed but Durant is reportedly expected to sign a two-year, $54.3 million contract with the Warriors. 
 
(Reuters)

Durant is expected to sign a two-year, $54.3 million contract with the Warriors

Former NBA Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant, the biggest prize on the free agent market, announced on Monday that he will join the Golden State Warriors. Durant, a four-times league scoring champion and seven-times All-Star who spent the first nine years of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise, said in a piece posted on the Players' Tribune website that this has been the most challenging time of his professional life. "The primary mandate I had for myself in making this decision was to have it based on the potential for my growth as a player - as that has always steered me in the right direction," Durant wrote. "But I am also at a point in my life where it is of equal importance to find an opportunity that encourages my evolution as a man: moving out of my comfort zone to a new city and community which offers the greatest potential for my contribution and personal growth," he further confided in the piece and added, "With this in mind, I have decided that I am going to join the Golden State Warriors." Durant, whose former Thunder team came one win short of reaching the 2016 NBA Finals, met with Oklahoma City, Golden State, Los Angeles Clippers, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs and Miami Heat before making his decision. He joins a Warriors team that includes reigning league MVP Stephen Curry, won the NBA title in 2015 and finished runner-up in 2016 after a remarkable campaign in which they had a record 73 wins during the 82-game regular season. Terms of the deal were not disclosed but Durant is reportedly expected to sign a two-year, $54.3 million contract with the Warriors. (Reuters)

Eyeing growth, Star NBA player Kevin Durant decides to join Golden State Warriors

The winningest coach in US&nbsp;Division 1 collegiate basketball history, Pat Summitt, died on Tuesday, her foundation&#39;s website reported.

Summitt died surrounded by her family as she battled early onset dementia, a statement from her son Tyler Summitt said.

From 1974-2012, as the coach of the University of Tennessee women&#39;s Volunteers, Summitt guided teams to eight National Collegiate Athletic Association&nbsp;(NCAA)&nbsp;championships and 32 Southeastern Conference titles.

&quot;It is a very sad day on Rocky Top. Volunteers around the world are mourning the loss of the legendary Pat Summitt,&quot; University of Tennessee chancellor Jimmy G. Cheek said in a statement on the university&#39;s website.

&quot;Pat was the greatest coach of all time; her fierce spirit will live on through her players, and through all of us who were inspired by her on a daily basis. Our sincerest sympathies go out to Tyler and all her family and friends.&quot;

Summitt, 64, stepped down as coach and revealed her battle with Alzheimer&#39;s in 2011 and started The Pat Summitt Foundation to raise awareness about Alzheimer&#39;s.

Summitt became the most successful basketball coach in 2005 and was named NCAA Coach of the Year seven times, according to a release on her foundation&#39;s website.

Born in Clarksville, Tennessee&nbsp;in 1952, Summitt was a standout basketball player as well, playing on the US&nbsp;silver medal team at the 1976 Summer Games in Montreal, according to USA Today. 
 
(Reuters)

Summitt guided the University of Tennessee women's Volunteers to 32 conference titles and eight NCAA championships

The winningest coach in US Division 1 collegiate basketball history, Pat Summitt, died on Tuesday, her foundation's website reported. Summitt died surrounded by her family as she battled early onset dementia, a statement from her son Tyler Summitt said. From 1974-2012, as the coach of the University of Tennessee women's Volunteers, Summitt guided teams to eight National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championships and 32 Southeastern Conference titles. "It is a very sad day on Rocky Top. Volunteers around the world are mourning the loss of the legendary Pat Summitt," University of Tennessee chancellor Jimmy G. Cheek said in a statement on the university's website. "Pat was the greatest coach of all time; her fierce spirit will live on through her players, and through all of us who were inspired by her on a daily basis. Our sincerest sympathies go out to Tyler and all her family and friends." Summitt, 64, stepped down as coach and revealed her battle with Alzheimer's in 2011 and started The Pat Summitt Foundation to raise awareness about Alzheimer's. Summitt became the most successful basketball coach in 2005 and was named NCAA Coach of the Year seven times, according to a release on her foundation's website. Born in Clarksville, Tennessee in 1952, Summitt was a standout basketball player as well, playing on the US silver medal team at the 1976 Summer Games in Montreal, according to USA Today. (Reuters)

Legendary women's basketball coach Pat Summitt dies at 64

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, whose father was murdered by a violent Islamic group in 1984, has made a passionate plea for stronger background checks on US gun purchases. 
 
Kerr spoke on Friday on a podcast by San Jose Mercury News sports columnist Tim Kawakami about the Warriors` loss to Cleveland in the NBA Finals then took the conversation into politics. 
 
&quot;Our government is insane,&quot; Kerr said, for failing to pass gun control legislation. 
 
Democratic members of the House of Representatives staged a 24-hour sit-in Wednesday and Thursday to protest the inability to even have a vote on gun restriction proposals. 
 
Kerr`s father, Malcolm, was the president of the American University of Beirut.&nbsp; 
 
He was gunned down in the hallway outside his office in 1984 while his son was a freshman basketball standout at the University of Arizona. 
 
&quot;When 90 per cent of our country wants background checks on gun purchases and we&#39;ve got our Senate and our House not only voting it 
down but using the Bill of Rights as a reason for people to have rights to carry these automatic weapons, and we`re getting people murdered every day at an alarming rate -- I just have to get this off my chest -- our government is insane. We are insane.&quot; 
 
Kerr&#39;s call for arms control came two weeks after a terror attack at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, left 49 dead and 53 others wounded in the deadliest mass shooting in US history, a massacre that came the night before Kerr`s Warriors lost game five of the NBA Finals on their way to squandering a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, the worst collapse in finals history. 
 
&quot;What bugs me is this adherence to the right to bear arms,&quot; Kerr said. &quot;That was back in 1776. People didn`t own automatic rifles.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;You had to have a musket in case the Redcoats were coming, the British were coming. And the beautiful thing about the Constitution is they left open amendments to change things because things change over time. 
 
&quot;I kind of think that our forefathers would not have OK`d automatic weapons to be sold to everybody if they existed back then. Let`s have some checks. It`s easier to get a gun than it is to get a driver`s license. It`s insane.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;And as somebody who`s had a family member shot and killed, it devastates me every time I read about this stuff -- like what happened in 
Orlando -- and then it`s even more devastating to see the government just cowing to the NRA (National Rifle Association) and going to this totally outdated Bill Of Rights, right to bear arms.&quot; 
 
Kerr, who spent much of his youth overseas, called for political change to toss out those who back the NRA`s desire to avoid any limits on gun ownership. 
 
&quot;If you want to own a musket, fine, you know, but come on. The rest of the world thinks we`re insane. We are insane,&quot; Kerr said.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;And until we vote these senators and congressmen and women out of office, the same thing is going to happen. And it`s infuriating.&quot; 
 
Kerr wondered how US lawmakers might react if their family members were at greater risk of being slain in mass shootings. 
 
&quot;You wonder if any of these senators and congressmen and women who are so opposed to even holding a vote on not only the right to 
buy an automatic weapon but just the background checks and the lists and all the stuff, how would they feel about this if their own child, their own mother, their own father, sister, brother, wife, husband was murdered. Mass murdered,&quot; Kerr said. 
 
&quot;How many times do we have to go through this before our government actually does something about it?&quot; 
 
(AFP)

'Our government is insane' for failing to pass gun control legislation, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr says

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, whose father was murdered by a violent Islamic group in 1984, has made a passionate plea for stronger background checks on US gun purchases. Kerr spoke on Friday on a podcast by San Jose Mercury News sports columnist Tim Kawakami about the Warriors` loss to Cleveland in the NBA Finals then took the conversation into politics. "Our government is insane," Kerr said, for failing to pass gun control legislation. Democratic members of the House of Representatives staged a 24-hour sit-in Wednesday and Thursday to protest the inability to even have a vote on gun restriction proposals. Kerr`s father, Malcolm, was the president of the American University of Beirut. He was gunned down in the hallway outside his office in 1984 while his son was a freshman basketball standout at the University of Arizona. "When 90 per cent of our country wants background checks on gun purchases and we've got our Senate and our House not only voting it down but using the Bill of Rights as a reason for people to have rights to carry these automatic weapons, and we`re getting people murdered every day at an alarming rate -- I just have to get this off my chest -- our government is insane. We are insane." Kerr's call for arms control came two weeks after a terror attack at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, left 49 dead and 53 others wounded in the deadliest mass shooting in US history, a massacre that came the night before Kerr`s Warriors lost game five of the NBA Finals on their way to squandering a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, the worst collapse in finals history. "What bugs me is this adherence to the right to bear arms," Kerr said. "That was back in 1776. People didn`t own automatic rifles. "You had to have a musket in case the Redcoats were coming, the British were coming. And the beautiful thing about the Constitution is they left open amendments to change things because things change over time. "I kind of think that our forefathers would not have OK`d automatic weapons to be sold to everybody if they existed back then. Let`s have some checks. It`s easier to get a gun than it is to get a driver`s license. It`s insane. "And as somebody who`s had a family member shot and killed, it devastates me every time I read about this stuff -- like what happened in Orlando -- and then it`s even more devastating to see the government just cowing to the NRA (National Rifle Association) and going to this totally outdated Bill Of Rights, right to bear arms." Kerr, who spent much of his youth overseas, called for political change to toss out those who back the NRA`s desire to avoid any limits on gun ownership. "If you want to own a musket, fine, you know, but come on. The rest of the world thinks we`re insane. We are insane," Kerr said. "And until we vote these senators and congressmen and women out of office, the same thing is going to happen. And it`s infuriating." Kerr wondered how US lawmakers might react if their family members were at greater risk of being slain in mass shootings. "You wonder if any of these senators and congressmen and women who are so opposed to even holding a vote on not only the right to buy an automatic weapon but just the background checks and the lists and all the stuff, how would they feel about this if their own child, their own mother, their own father, sister, brother, wife, husband was murdered. Mass murdered," Kerr said. "How many times do we have to go through this before our government actually does something about it?" (AFP)

NBA: Warriors coach Kerr makes emotional gun control plea

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