Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant is all set to join the 2021 NBA finalist Phoenix Suns. The NBA superstar has been traded from the Brooklyn Nets, which acquired&nbsp;Cam Johnson, Mikal Bridges and four first-round picks in the deal. The Suns will also get forward TJ Warren alongside Durant.

Durant, touted as future Hall of Famer, didn't have a satisfying time with the Nets after joining them in 2019. He was sidelined for the entire 2019-20 season with an Achilles injury and eventually managed to win only one playoff series with the Nets.

Durant will be joining an already start-studded Suns team with Chris Paul, DeAndre Ayton and shooting guard Devin Booker already on Phoenix's roster. Although, with Durant onboard, the Suns, which are currently sixth in the Western Conference, will be stacked as one of the top contenders for the NBA title.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nba-kyrie-irving-joins-dallas-mavericks-559525">WATCH |&nbsp;NBA: Kyrie Irving Joins Dallas Mavericks</a>

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Phoenix will be eager to build a long-lasting group centred around Durant but for now the game is wait and watch. Notably, Kevin Durant won his two NBA championships back-to-back with the Golden State Warriors in 2018 and 2018 and was also named the finals MVP on both the occasions.

The news for Nets fans, however, isn't much pleasing. Brookly had high hopes from the trio of Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden. But the dreams of a title couldn't materialise. While Harden already left the Nets to join the Philadelphia 76ers last year, Irving will be joining the Dallas Mavericks. Coming to play-offs, the Nets are still in contention, sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nike-severs-ties-with-kyrie-irving-cancels-next-shoe-launch-531416">Read more:&nbsp;Nike severs ties with Kyrie Irving over anti-Semitism controversy, cancels shoe launch</a>

In other deals before the Thursday deadline, Russell Westbrook has been traded to the Utah Jazz from the Los Angeles Lakers. The defending champions Golden State Warriors also brought back Gary Payton II in a deal with the Portland Trailblazers.

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Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant is all set to join the 2021 NBA finalist Phoenix Suns. The NBA superstar has been traded from the Brooklyn Nets, which acquired Cam Johnson, Mikal Bridges and four first-round picks in the deal.

Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant is all set to join the 2021 NBA finalist Phoenix Suns. The NBA superstar has been traded from the Brooklyn Nets, which acquired Cam Johnson, Mikal Bridges and four first-round picks in the deal. The Suns will also get forward TJ Warren alongside Durant. Durant, touted as future Hall of Famer, didn't have a satisfying time with the Nets after joining them in 2019. He was sidelined for the entire 2019-20 season with an Achilles injury and eventually managed to win only one playoff series with the Nets. Durant will be joining an already start-studded Suns team with Chris Paul, DeAndre Ayton and shooting guard Devin Booker already on Phoenix's roster. Although, with Durant onboard, the Suns, which are currently sixth in the Western Conference, will be stacked as one of the top contenders for the NBA title. WATCH | NBA: Kyrie Irving Joins Dallas Mavericks × Phoenix will be eager to build a long-lasting group centred around Durant but for now the game is wait and watch. Notably, Kevin Durant won his two NBA championships back-to-back with the Golden State Warriors in 2018 and 2018 and was also named the finals MVP on both the occasions. The news for Nets fans, however, isn't much pleasing. Brookly had high hopes from the trio of Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden. But the dreams of a title couldn't materialise. While Harden already left the Nets to join the Philadelphia 76ers last year, Irving will be joining the Dallas Mavericks. Coming to play-offs, the Nets are still in contention, sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference. Read more: Nike severs ties with Kyrie Irving over anti-Semitism controversy, cancels shoe launch In other deals before the Thursday deadline, Russell Westbrook has been traded to the Utah Jazz from the Los Angeles Lakers. The defending champions Golden State Warriors also brought back Gary Payton II in a deal with the Portland Trailblazers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NBA: Brooklyn Nets' Kevin Durant traded to Phoenix Suns

NBA superstar forward&nbsp;Kevin&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;is headed to the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade from the Brooklyn Nets, US media reported on Wednesday. The Nets were trading&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;and TJ Warren in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and four first-round draft picks, according to US outlets, including ESPN, which cited unnamed sources. The move, on the eve of the NBA's trade deadline on Thursday, follows Brooklyn's trade of Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, after Irving requested a move.

It also comes on the same day that US billionaire mortgage lender Mat Ishbia made his debut as the new owner of the Suns, promising that he was "not going to be sitting here counting the dollars. I'm going to look at how can we improve our team."

Durant&nbsp;-- a two-time NBA champion, two-time Finals MVP and a former NBA regular-season MVP -- had requested a trade in June, less than a year after he inked a four-year, $198 million contract extension with the Nets. The 34-year-old had reportedly grown frustrated with the direction of the franchise, who were swept in the first round of last season's playoffs despite having the star duo of&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;and Irving.

In August it became clear that&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;would remain in Brooklyn, but the club got off to a chaotic start this season. They sacked head coach Steve Nash in November after a 1-5 start to the season. Then Irving was suspended for eight games after a social media post publicizing a movie with anti-Semitic themes and declining to apologize.

Although the Nets fortunes had turned around under new coach Jacque Vaughn,&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;has been sidelined since January 8 because of a sprained ligament in his right knee. On Tuesday, Vaughn told reporters that&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;"had a really good report" in his latest medical evaluation, although the team had offered no timeline on when he would return to the court.

Durant&nbsp;was averaging 29.7 points per game on 55.9 percent shooting, 6.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.5 blocks per game this season. He was named an All-Star Game team captain as the top vote-getter in the Eastern Conference but will not be able to play in the game on February 19.

<h2>- Conference rivals -</h2>

The mercurial Irving, who reportedly asked out of Brooklyn after failing to agree on a contract extension, made his Mavericks debut on Wednesday, scoring 24 points in a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

Irving, asked about the&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;trade after the Mavs game, said he was looking forward to taking on his good friend as a Western Conference rival. "I love the competition now that we can be in the same conference," Irving said. "That's what I'm looking forward to. Everything else and in the in-between, I'm just glad that he got out of there."

Durant&nbsp;and Irving both arrived in Brooklyn in 2019 aiming to form a "super team" along with James Harden -- who was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers shortly before the trade deadline last year. Amid injuries, controversies and simple lack of chemistry, Brooklyn's "Big Three" never advanced past the second round of the playoffs together.

Durant&nbsp;will now join veteran star Chris Paul and Devin Booker in Phoenix in a bid to claim the third championship ring of his career, after he won two with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018. Irving's move to Dallas started the trade dominos falling in earnest. In addition to the&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;trade, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly poised to trade Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz in a three-team deal that will bring Minnesota's D'Angelo Russell to the Lakers, US media reported on Wednesday.

NBA superstar forward Kevin Durant is headed to the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade from the Brooklyn Nets, US media reported on Wednesday. The Nets were trading Durant and TJ Warren in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and four first-round draft picks, according to US outlets, including ESPN, which cited unnamed sources.

NBA superstar forward Kevin Durant is headed to the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade from the Brooklyn Nets, US media reported on Wednesday. The Nets were trading Durant and TJ Warren in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and four first-round draft picks, according to US outlets, including ESPN, which cited unnamed sources. The move, on the eve of the NBA's trade deadline on Thursday, follows Brooklyn's trade of Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, after Irving requested a move. It also comes on the same day that US billionaire mortgage lender Mat Ishbia made his debut as the new owner of the Suns, promising that he was "not going to be sitting here counting the dollars. I'm going to look at how can we improve our team." Durant -- a two-time NBA champion, two-time Finals MVP and a former NBA regular-season MVP -- had requested a trade in June, less than a year after he inked a four-year, $198 million contract extension with the Nets. The 34-year-old had reportedly grown frustrated with the direction of the franchise, who were swept in the first round of last season's playoffs despite having the star duo of Durant and Irving. In August it became clear that Durant would remain in Brooklyn, but the club got off to a chaotic start this season. They sacked head coach Steve Nash in November after a 1-5 start to the season. Then Irving was suspended for eight games after a social media post publicizing a movie with anti-Semitic themes and declining to apologize. Although the Nets fortunes had turned around under new coach Jacque Vaughn, Durant has been sidelined since January 8 because of a sprained ligament in his right knee. On Tuesday, Vaughn told reporters that Durant "had a really good report" in his latest medical evaluation, although the team had offered no timeline on when he would return to the court. Durant was averaging 29.7 points per game on 55.9 percent shooting, 6.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.5 blocks per game this season. He was named an All-Star Game team captain as the top vote-getter in the Eastern Conference but will not be able to play in the game on February 19. - Conference rivals - The mercurial Irving, who reportedly asked out of Brooklyn after failing to agree on a contract extension, made his Mavericks debut on Wednesday, scoring 24 points in a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. Irving, asked about the Durant trade after the Mavs game, said he was looking forward to taking on his good friend as a Western Conference rival. "I love the competition now that we can be in the same conference," Irving said. "That's what I'm looking forward to. Everything else and in the in-between, I'm just glad that he got out of there." Durant and Irving both arrived in Brooklyn in 2019 aiming to form a "super team" along with James Harden -- who was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers shortly before the trade deadline last year. Amid injuries, controversies and simple lack of chemistry, Brooklyn's "Big Three" never advanced past the second round of the playoffs together. Durant will now join veteran star Chris Paul and Devin Booker in Phoenix in a bid to claim the third championship ring of his career, after he won two with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018. Irving's move to Dallas started the trade dominos falling in earnest. In addition to the Durant trade, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly poised to trade Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz in a three-team deal that will bring Minnesota's D'Angelo Russell to the Lakers, US media reported on Wednesday.

Kevin Durant headed to Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade from Brooklyn Nets - Report

Basketball superstar LeBron James scripted history on Tuesday as he became the highest-scoring player in the history of NBA, breaking a 39-year record, previously held by the legendary&nbsp;Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.&nbsp;

Currently, in his 20th season in the NBA, LeBron&nbsp;passed Abdul-Jabbar's longstanding total of 38,387 points after nailing a 21-foot shot late in the third quarter, giving him 38,388 points and prompting wild celebrations in a packed Crypto.com Arena.

For a long time, basketball fans believed that&nbsp;Abdul-Jabbar's record would never be beaten. However, James, at the young age of 38 managed to achieve the unthinkable.&nbsp;

To make the occasion special,&nbsp;Abdul-Jabbar, who was sitting courtside was one of the first persons to congratulate James after achieving the historic feat.&nbsp;

"To be able to be in the presence of a legend and great as Kareem it means so much to me," said James as the play was halted to commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime event.

"Everybody that's ever been part of this run with me these last 20 years, I just want to say I thank you so much because I wouldn't be me without all your help, all your passion and all your sacrifices to help me get to this point."&nbsp;

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EVERY ANGLE of the bucket that made LeBron James the NBA's all-time leading scorer 📽️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ScoringKing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ScoringKing</a> <a href="https://t.co/BVUr9x78BH">pic.twitter.com/BVUr9x78BH</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1623194203386675200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Breaking the nearly four-decade-old record that Abdul-Jabbar seized from Wilt Chamberlain on April 5, 1984 has strengthened James' claim as the greatest to have ever played the sport.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-tickets-price-skyrockets-as-lakers-forward-lebron-james-chases-history-559133">Read more:&nbsp;NBA: Tickets price skyrockets as Lakers forward LeBron James chases history</a>

Former LA Lakers player Magic Johnson took to Twitter to congratulate James and said the sport will never see another player of his class.&nbsp;

"This historic moment is so special because we will never see another LeBron James. He’s always been a pass-first leader whose ability to make his teammates better is one-of-a-kind; which makes his breaking the record even more incredible!"

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This historic moment is so special because we will never see another LeBron James. He’s always been a pass-first leader whose ability to make his teammates better is one-of-a-kind; which makes his breaking the record even more incredible!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/MagicJohnson/status/1623190575976685568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Even after achieving the momentous feat, the scary part is that James is showing no signs of slowing down. In the 2022-23 season, he is averaging more than 30 points per game and recently made his 19th All-Star game.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Basketball superstar LeBron James scripted history on Tuesday as he became the highest-scoring player in the history of NBA, breaking a 39-year record, previously held by the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Basketball superstar LeBron James scripted history on Tuesday as he became the highest-scoring player in the history of NBA, breaking a 39-year record, previously held by the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Currently, in his 20th season in the NBA, LeBron passed Abdul-Jabbar's longstanding total of 38,387 points after nailing a 21-foot shot late in the third quarter, giving him 38,388 points and prompting wild celebrations in a packed Crypto.com Arena. For a long time, basketball fans believed that Abdul-Jabbar's record would never be beaten. However, James, at the young age of 38 managed to achieve the unthinkable. To make the occasion special, Abdul-Jabbar, who was sitting courtside was one of the first persons to congratulate James after achieving the historic feat. "To be able to be in the presence of a legend and great as Kareem it means so much to me," said James as the play was halted to commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime event. "Everybody that's ever been part of this run with me these last 20 years, I just want to say I thank you so much because I wouldn't be me without all your help, all your passion and all your sacrifices to help me get to this point." EVERY ANGLE of the bucket that made LeBron James the NBA's all-time leading scorer 📽️#ScoringKing pic.twitter.com/BVUr9x78BH — NBA (@NBA) February 8, 2023 × Breaking the nearly four-decade-old record that Abdul-Jabbar seized from Wilt Chamberlain on April 5, 1984 has strengthened James' claim as the greatest to have ever played the sport. Read more: NBA: Tickets price skyrockets as Lakers forward LeBron James chases history Former LA Lakers player Magic Johnson took to Twitter to congratulate James and said the sport will never see another player of his class. "This historic moment is so special because we will never see another LeBron James. He’s always been a pass-first leader whose ability to make his teammates better is one-of-a-kind; which makes his breaking the record even more incredible!" This historic moment is so special because we will never see another LeBron James. He’s always been a pass-first leader whose ability to make his teammates better is one-of-a-kind; which makes his breaking the record even more incredible! — Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 8, 2023 × Even after achieving the momentous feat, the scary part is that James is showing no signs of slowing down. In the 2022-23 season, he is averaging more than 30 points per game and recently made his 19th All-Star game. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Record alert! LeBron James breaks NBA all-time scoring record

History awaits on Tuesday night as LeBron James puts the all-time NBA scoring record in his sights when the Los Angeles Lakers host the Oklahoma City Thunder.

LeBron James set to break NBA's all-time scoring record

Kyrie Irving was welcomed to the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks as the Texas team and the Brooklyn Nets confirmed their blockbuster trade deal. Days after the controversial guard requested a move before NBA trade deadline, both clubs tweeted confirmation of the transfer following team physicals.

NBA: Kyrie Irving Joins Dallas Mavericks

Lakers forward LeBron James returns to Los Angeles on the verge of becoming the NBA's all-time leading scorer after wrapping up a five-game road trip in New Orleans on Saturday night. 'King James' now needs just 36 points to pass fellow Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's record 38,387 career points after contributing 27 points in the Lakers' 131-126 loss to the Pelicans.

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The league leader in fast-break points is at it again 🏎 <a href="https://t.co/gBdroDtZki">pic.twitter.com/gBdroDtZki</a>
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1622036624837341185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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James, 38, has shown no sign of slowing down in his 20th season, where he is averaging more than 30 points per game and made his 19th All-Star game. He will have two opportunities to capture what he has called "one of the greatest records in sports" on his home floor next week when the Lakers host the Thunder on Tuesday and the Bucks on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the ticket prices for those games have predictably skyrocketed and Hollywood's biggest stars are expected to be seated courtside. Fans everywhere are eagerly anticipating the milestone and the league has said that any game where he has a reasonable chance of breaking the record will be broadcast nationally. At this point the only question is what kind of shot he will take to seize the title.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pl-arsenal-suffers-shock-defeat-against-everton-liverpools-slump-continues-manchester-united-edges-closer-558927">PL: Arsenal suffers shock defeat against Everton, Liverpool's slump continues; Manchester United edges closer</a>

James has been seen practicing the skyhook, a shot perfected by Abdul-Jabbar, in warm-ups before recent games, so homage to the Hall of Famer may be in the works. But a dunk, mid-range jumper or three-pointer or even free throw will lead to a pause in the contest as an epic celebration breaks out at Crypto.com Arena.

Breaking the nearly four-decade-old record that Abdul-Jabbar seized from Wilt Chamberlain on April 5, 1984 will further four-time champion James' case for being recognized as the greatest of all time.

The Akron, Ohio native had an immediate impact on the struggling Cleveland Cavaliers organization when he was selected first overall as a teenager amid a media frenzy in the 2003 NBA Draft. Since then he has more than exceeded the high expectations put on his broad shoulders and steadily risen up the scoring list.

For two decades James has ruled the NBA, winning four titles with three different franchises, being selected to a record-tying 19 All-Star games last month and being a perenial MVP candidate.

Lakers forward LeBron James returns to Los Angeles on the verge of becoming the NBA's all-time leading scorer after wrapping up a five-game road trip in New Orleans on Saturday night.

Lakers forward LeBron James returns to Los Angeles on the verge of becoming the NBA's all-time leading scorer after wrapping up a five-game road trip in New Orleans on Saturday night. 'King James' now needs just 36 points to pass fellow Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's record 38,387 career points after contributing 27 points in the Lakers' 131-126 loss to the Pelicans. The league leader in fast-break points is at it again 🏎 pic.twitter.com/gBdroDtZki — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 5, 2023 × James, 38, has shown no sign of slowing down in his 20th season, where he is averaging more than 30 points per game and made his 19th All-Star game. He will have two opportunities to capture what he has called "one of the greatest records in sports" on his home floor next week when the Lakers host the Thunder on Tuesday and the Bucks on Thursday. Meanwhile, the ticket prices for those games have predictably skyrocketed and Hollywood's biggest stars are expected to be seated courtside. Fans everywhere are eagerly anticipating the milestone and the league has said that any game where he has a reasonable chance of breaking the record will be broadcast nationally. At this point the only question is what kind of shot he will take to seize the title. ALSO READ: PL: Arsenal suffers shock defeat against Everton, Liverpool's slump continues; Manchester United edges closer James has been seen practicing the skyhook, a shot perfected by Abdul-Jabbar, in warm-ups before recent games, so homage to the Hall of Famer may be in the works. But a dunk, mid-range jumper or three-pointer or even free throw will lead to a pause in the contest as an epic celebration breaks out at Crypto.com Arena. Breaking the nearly four-decade-old record that Abdul-Jabbar seized from Wilt Chamberlain on April 5, 1984 will further four-time champion James' case for being recognized as the greatest of all time. The Akron, Ohio native had an immediate impact on the struggling Cleveland Cavaliers organization when he was selected first overall as a teenager amid a media frenzy in the 2003 NBA Draft. Since then he has more than exceeded the high expectations put on his broad shoulders and steadily risen up the scoring list. For two decades James has ruled the NBA, winning four titles with three different franchises, being selected to a record-tying 19 All-Star games last month and being a perenial MVP candidate.

NBA: Tickets price skyrockets as Lakers forward LeBron James chases history

A game-worn jersey of basketball superstar LeBron James sold for $3.7 million at auction Friday, five times more than the previous record for one of his shirts.

The sale comes with interest even higher than usual in the 38-year-old LA Lakers icon as he nears the NBA's all-time scoring record.

Sotheby's in New York sold the jersey, which James wore while playing for the Miami Heat in their 2013 NBA finals game seven victory against the San Antonio Spurs.

It smashed the previous record of $630,000 for a James All-Star jersey worn in 2020.

Game-worn sports memorabilia is big business. Michael Jordan's 1998 NBA Finals jersey, which sold for $10.1 million in September 2022, is currently the most valuable such item.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketball-legend-michael-jordans-last-dance-jersey-sells-for-whopping-101-million-516661">Read more:&nbsp;Basketball legend Michael Jordan's 'Last Dance' jersey sells for whopping $10.1 million</a>

Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" jersey sold for $9.3 million at Sotheby's in London last year.

James needs just 178 points to eclipse Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's tally of 38,387 points, one of the most coveted and longstanding records in basketball.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-maradonas-hand-of-god-shirt-headlines-qatar-exhibit-during-world-cup-521514">Read more:&nbsp;Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt headlines Qatar exhibit during World Cup</a>

Sotheby's also sold a dress worn by the late Princess Diana for $604,800 Friday.

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A game-worn jersey of basketball superstar LeBron James sold for $3.7 million at auction Friday, five times more than the previous record for one of his shirts. The sale comes with interest even higher than usual in the 38-year-old LA Lakers icon as he nears the NBA's all-time scoring record.

A game-worn jersey of basketball superstar LeBron James sold for $3.7 million at auction Friday, five times more than the previous record for one of his shirts. The sale comes with interest even higher than usual in the 38-year-old LA Lakers icon as he nears the NBA's all-time scoring record. Sotheby's in New York sold the jersey, which James wore while playing for the Miami Heat in their 2013 NBA finals game seven victory against the San Antonio Spurs. It smashed the previous record of $630,000 for a James All-Star jersey worn in 2020. Game-worn sports memorabilia is big business. Michael Jordan's 1998 NBA Finals jersey, which sold for $10.1 million in September 2022, is currently the most valuable such item. Read more: Basketball legend Michael Jordan's 'Last Dance' jersey sells for whopping $10.1 million Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" jersey sold for $9.3 million at Sotheby's in London last year. James needs just 178 points to eclipse Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's tally of 38,387 points, one of the most coveted and longstanding records in basketball. Read more: Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt headlines Qatar exhibit during World Cup Sotheby's also sold a dress worn by the late Princess Diana for $604,800 Friday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

LeBron James' 2013 Miami jersey sold for $3.7 million in an auction

Fan voting to help determine starting lineups for the 2023 NBA All-Star Game will start on Tuesday and run through January 21, the league announced Thursday.

The 72nd NBA All-Star Game will be played on February 19 at Salt Lake City, Utah.

Fans can select three frontcourt players and two guards for both the Eastern Conference and Western Conference.

The starting five players for each elite lineup will be selected by a combination of votes from fans, players and a media panel, with supporter voting counting 50 percent while players and the media polling will be worth 25 percent each.

Fans can vote multiple times while players and reporters vote a single time. Fan voting totals will serve as a tie-breaker to decide any berth.

There will be six "3-for-1" days when fan votes count triple, the first of those on December 25.

NBA All-Star Game starters, including the two team captains, will be revealed on January 26 with reserves, chosen by NBA head coaches, to be announced February 2.

Team captains will be the players with the highest vote totals from the East and West. Those two will select fellow starters from the pool of talent determined by the voting, regardless of conference affiliation.

Team LeBron James has won all five NBA All-Star Games since the format began, defeating teams chosen by Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant.

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Fan voting to help determine starting lineups for the 2023 NBA All-Star Game will start on Tuesday and run through January 21, the league announced Thursday. The 72nd NBA All-Star Game will be played on February 19 at Salt Lake City, Utah.

Fan voting to help determine starting lineups for the 2023 NBA All-Star Game will start on Tuesday and run through January 21, the league announced Thursday. The 72nd NBA All-Star Game will be played on February 19 at Salt Lake City, Utah. Fans can select three frontcourt players and two guards for both the Eastern Conference and Western Conference. The starting five players for each elite lineup will be selected by a combination of votes from fans, players and a media panel, with supporter voting counting 50 percent while players and the media polling will be worth 25 percent each. Fans can vote multiple times while players and reporters vote a single time. Fan voting totals will serve as a tie-breaker to decide any berth. There will be six "3-for-1" days when fan votes count triple, the first of those on December 25. NBA All-Star Game starters, including the two team captains, will be revealed on January 26 with reserves, chosen by NBA head coaches, to be announced February 2. Team captains will be the players with the highest vote totals from the East and West. Those two will select fellow starters from the pool of talent determined by the voting, regardless of conference affiliation. Team LeBron James has won all five NBA All-Star Games since the format began, defeating teams chosen by Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NBA All-Star Game fan voting begins Tuesday

The NBA is renaming its annual regular-season Most Valuable Player award after legendary star Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;-- who claimed the honor five times with the Chicago Bulls. The league unveiled the newly designed Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;Trophy on Tuesday, along with five other reimagined trophies named after league pioneers that will now be presented to the National Basketball Association's end-of-season award winners.&nbsp;Jordan, a six-time NBA champion, won five MVPs in his 15-season career, tied for second-most behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar who won six.

The NBA's Social Justice Champion award is named for Abdul-Jabbar. Other renamed awards announced Tuesday are the Hakeem Olajuwon Trophy for the Defensive Player of the Year, the Wilt Chamberlain Trophy for Rookie of the Year, the John Havlicek Trophy for Sixth Man of the Year and the George Mikan Trophy for Most Improved Player. The NBA also announced a new award for Clutch Player of the Year, named after Jerry West, who played in nine NBA Finals and remains the only player to win Finals MVP while losing the series.

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The new Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;Trophy was created with input from the NBA icon, who requested that it not be a likeness of him. It features a player breaking out of a rock to reach for a crystal basketball, and includes elements that reflect&nbsp;Jordan's career, including references to his jersey number 23 and his six NBA titles.

Previously, the league's MVP trophy was named after former commissioner Maurice Podoloff, whose name will now be attached to a new trophy honoring the team that posts the best regular-season record.

The NBA is renaming its annual regular-season Most Valuable Player award after legendary star Michael Jordan -- who claimed the honor five times with the Chicago Bulls.

The NBA is renaming its annual regular-season Most Valuable Player award after legendary star Michael Jordan -- who claimed the honor five times with the Chicago Bulls. The league unveiled the newly designed Michael Jordan Trophy on Tuesday, along with five other reimagined trophies named after league pioneers that will now be presented to the National Basketball Association's end-of-season award winners. Jordan, a six-time NBA champion, won five MVPs in his 15-season career, tied for second-most behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar who won six. The NBA's Social Justice Champion award is named for Abdul-Jabbar. Other renamed awards announced Tuesday are the Hakeem Olajuwon Trophy for the Defensive Player of the Year, the Wilt Chamberlain Trophy for Rookie of the Year, the John Havlicek Trophy for Sixth Man of the Year and the George Mikan Trophy for Most Improved Player. The NBA also announced a new award for Clutch Player of the Year, named after Jerry West, who played in nine NBA Finals and remains the only player to win Finals MVP while losing the series. Also read: French Rugby chief sentenced to two-year suspended term on corruption charges The new Michael Jordan Trophy was created with input from the NBA icon, who requested that it not be a likeness of him. It features a player breaking out of a rock to reach for a crystal basketball, and includes elements that reflect Jordan's career, including references to his jersey number 23 and his six NBA titles. Previously, the league's MVP trophy was named after former commissioner Maurice Podoloff, whose name will now be attached to a new trophy honoring the team that posts the best regular-season record.

NBA renames MVP trophy after Chicago Bulls great Michael Jordan

The&nbsp;Golden&nbsp;State&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;were&nbsp;sued&nbsp;on Monday by an&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;customer who accused the reigning National Basketball Association&nbsp;champions of fraudulently promoting the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange.

Elliott Lam, a Canadian citizen and Hong Kong resident, filed his proposed class-action lawsuit in San Francisco federal court on behalf of "thousands, if not millions" of people outside the United&nbsp;States who traded on&nbsp;FTX's platform. Other defendants include Sam Bankman-Fried, who founded&nbsp;FTX, and Caroline Ellison, who led Bankman-Fried's trading firm Alameda Research.

The&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;last December had named&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;its official cryptocurrency platform, in what it called a first-of-its-kind cryptocurrency partnership in professional sports. Lam accused the defendants of falsely representing that&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;was a "viable and safe way to invest in crypto," in order to deceive people into investing there.

The lawsuit seeks damages under California consumer laws for customers outside the United&nbsp;States with&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;yield-bearing accounts. Lam said he lost $750,000 in his account. A&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;spokeswoman said the team does not discuss pending legal matters. Lam's lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for additional comment.

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The&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;are also a defendant in a Nov. 16 lawsuit in Miami by U.S.-based&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;customers seeking damages from celebrity endorsers like&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;guard Stephen Curry, quarterback Tom Brady, comedian Larry David and tennis player Naomi Osaka.

Last week, the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;paused promotions related to&nbsp;FTX, according to published reports. Another&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;team, the Miami Heat, on Nov. 11 said it would drop the&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;name from its arena and seek a new naming sponsor. FTX&nbsp;filed for Chapter 11 protection on the same day. The Heat is not a defendant in the Miami lawsuit.

The Golden State Warriors were sued on Monday by an FTX customer who accused the reigning National Basketball Association champions of fraudulently promoting the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange.

The Golden State Warriors were sued on Monday by an FTX customer who accused the reigning National Basketball Association champions of fraudulently promoting the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange. Elliott Lam, a Canadian citizen and Hong Kong resident, filed his proposed class-action lawsuit in San Francisco federal court on behalf of "thousands, if not millions" of people outside the United States who traded on FTX's platform. Other defendants include Sam Bankman-Fried, who founded FTX, and Caroline Ellison, who led Bankman-Fried's trading firm Alameda Research. The Warriors last December had named FTX its official cryptocurrency platform, in what it called a first-of-its-kind cryptocurrency partnership in professional sports. Lam accused the defendants of falsely representing that FTX was a "viable and safe way to invest in crypto," in order to deceive people into investing there. The lawsuit seeks damages under California consumer laws for customers outside the United States with FTX yield-bearing accounts. Lam said he lost $750,000 in his account. A Warriors spokeswoman said the team does not discuss pending legal matters. Lam's lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for additional comment. Also read: FIFA World Cup: US journalist ‘detained’ at Qatar stadium for sporting rainbow shirt The Warriors are also a defendant in a Nov. 16 lawsuit in Miami by U.S.-based FTX customers seeking damages from celebrity endorsers like Warriors guard Stephen Curry, quarterback Tom Brady, comedian Larry David and tennis player Naomi Osaka. Last week, the Warriors paused promotions related to FTX, according to published reports. Another NBA team, the Miami Heat, on Nov. 11 said it would drop the FTX name from its arena and seek a new naming sponsor. FTX filed for Chapter 11 protection on the same day. The Heat is not a defendant in the Miami lawsuit.

NBA champion Golden State Warriors in trouble, sued over FTX collapse

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said he met with Kyrie Irving earlier this week and that he did not believe the Brooklyn Nets guard was anti-Semitic, Yahoo Sports reported on Thursday. Irving was heavily criticized for promoting a film that the seven-time All-Star has since said contained "false anti-Semitic statements".

The Nets suspended him for at least five games after he "refused to unequivocally say he has no anti-Semitic beliefs". Irving later apologized to those "hurt from the hateful remarks made in the documentary".

"Based on what he said directly, to me (I) have no doubt that he's not anti-Semitic but I think there's a process that he's going to now need to go through," Silver said in Washington on Thursday, according to the website.

Silver, who is Jewish, told the New York Times he had a "direct and candid conversation" with Irving. "He's someone I've known for a decade, and I've never heard an anti-Semitic word from him or, frankly, hate directed at any group," he said. Silver added: "Whether or not he is anti-Semitic is not relevant to the damage caused by the posting of hateful content."

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In addition to the suspension, Brooklyn outlined a list of six requirements he had to fulfill before rejoining the team. They included apologizing, condemning the film, making a $500,000 donation to anti-hate causes and completing anti-Semitism training.

Irving's former team mate LeBron James said that while he did not believe in sharing "hurtful information," Irving should be allowed to return to the court following his apology. "Help him learn - but he should be playing," James tweeted on Thursday. "What he's asked to do to get back on the floor I think is excessive IMO. He's not the person that's being portrayed of him."

If he serves a five-game suspension, Irving would be available to play Nov. 13 against the Lakers in Los Angeles.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said he met with Kyrie Irving earlier this week and that he did not believe the Brooklyn Nets guard was anti-Semitic, Yahoo Sports reported on Thursday.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said he met with Kyrie Irving earlier this week and that he did not believe the Brooklyn Nets guard was anti-Semitic, Yahoo Sports reported on Thursday. Irving was heavily criticized for promoting a film that the seven-time All-Star has since said contained "false anti-Semitic statements". The Nets suspended him for at least five games after he "refused to unequivocally say he has no anti-Semitic beliefs". Irving later apologized to those "hurt from the hateful remarks made in the documentary". "Based on what he said directly, to me (I) have no doubt that he's not anti-Semitic but I think there's a process that he's going to now need to go through," Silver said in Washington on Thursday, according to the website. Silver, who is Jewish, told the New York Times he had a "direct and candid conversation" with Irving. "He's someone I've known for a decade, and I've never heard an anti-Semitic word from him or, frankly, hate directed at any group," he said. Silver added: "Whether or not he is anti-Semitic is not relevant to the damage caused by the posting of hateful content." ALSO READ | Women's Rugby World Cup: Dominant England prepare to face New Zealand in sold-out final In addition to the suspension, Brooklyn outlined a list of six requirements he had to fulfill before rejoining the team. They included apologizing, condemning the film, making a $500,000 donation to anti-hate causes and completing anti-Semitism training. Irving's former team mate LeBron James said that while he did not believe in sharing "hurtful information," Irving should be allowed to return to the court following his apology. "Help him learn - but he should be playing," James tweeted on Thursday. "What he's asked to do to get back on the floor I think is excessive IMO. He's not the person that's being portrayed of him." If he serves a five-game suspension, Irving would be available to play Nov. 13 against the Lakers in Los Angeles.

Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving not anti-Semitic, says NBA Commissioner Adam Silver

The&nbsp;Brooklyn&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;star guard Kyrie Irving for at least five games, saying that despite holding a second press conference to address a controversial documentary he had still refused to disavow&nbsp;anti-Semitism. Irving has faced heavy criticism since posting a link to the 2018 film on Twitter last week and initially defended doing so during a contentious post-game news conference over the weekend.

The seven-time All Star has since deleted the Twitter post and in a press conference earlier on Thursday said he meant no harm. Irving took "responsibility" for posting the link but did not specifically denounce the film or its message, which civil rights activists have called&nbsp;anti-Semitic. "We were dismayed today, when given an opportunity in a media session, that Kyrie refused to unequivocally say he has no&nbsp;anti-Semitic&nbsp;beliefs, nor acknowledge specific hateful material in the film," the&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;said in a statement announcing his suspension.

The suspension comes at a fraught moment for Jews in the United States, as the FBI warned on Thursday there was a credible threat to synagogues in New Jersey, a state that lies just across the harbor from the New York City borough of&nbsp;Brooklyn, one of the most Jewish places in the world. The controversy follows another generated by Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West, who was&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;by social media platforms last month for posts that online users condemned as&nbsp;anti-Semitic.

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The team said Irving would be&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;until he undergoes a series of unspecified "remedial measures," but no less than five games. The&nbsp;Nets' next game is on Friday night against the Wizards in Washington. If he serves a five-game suspension, Irving would be available to play Nov. 13 against the Lakers in Los Angeles.

Irving issued a joint statement with the&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Anti-Defamation League on Wednesday, saying he opposed all forms of hatred. He and the&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;said they would each donate $500,000 toward organizations that work to eradicate hate. The National Basketball Association and union representing its&nbsp;players have also issued statements condemning hate speech. Neither the&nbsp;players union nor Irving's agent immediately responded to request for comment on Thursday night.

"Kyrie Irving made a reckless decision to post a link to a film containing deeply offensive&nbsp;anti-Semitic&nbsp;material," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in his statement on Thursday. Irving's social media posts are not the first time that he has courted controversy in the NBA. He played in just 29 of the&nbsp;Nets' 82 regular season games for the 2021-22 season after refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine despite a mandate by the city of New York. While not specifically mentioning the issues with Irving, the&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;parted ways with head coach Steve Nash on Tuesday after a disappointing start to their season.

The Brooklyn Nets on Thursday suspended star guard Kyrie Irving for at least five games, saying that despite holding a second press conference to address a controversial documentary he had still refused to disavow anti-Semitism.

The Brooklyn Nets on Thursday suspended star guard Kyrie Irving for at least five games, saying that despite holding a second press conference to address a controversial documentary he had still refused to disavow anti-Semitism. Irving has faced heavy criticism since posting a link to the 2018 film on Twitter last week and initially defended doing so during a contentious post-game news conference over the weekend. The seven-time All Star has since deleted the Twitter post and in a press conference earlier on Thursday said he meant no harm. Irving took "responsibility" for posting the link but did not specifically denounce the film or its message, which civil rights activists have called anti-Semitic. "We were dismayed today, when given an opportunity in a media session, that Kyrie refused to unequivocally say he has no anti-Semitic beliefs, nor acknowledge specific hateful material in the film," the Nets said in a statement announcing his suspension. The suspension comes at a fraught moment for Jews in the United States, as the FBI warned on Thursday there was a credible threat to synagogues in New Jersey, a state that lies just across the harbor from the New York City borough of Brooklyn, one of the most Jewish places in the world. The controversy follows another generated by Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West, who was suspended by social media platforms last month for posts that online users condemned as anti-Semitic. ALSO READ | Barcelona's Pique to retire, will play last home game on Saturday The team said Irving would be suspended until he undergoes a series of unspecified "remedial measures," but no less than five games. The Nets' next game is on Friday night against the Wizards in Washington. If he serves a five-game suspension, Irving would be available to play Nov. 13 against the Lakers in Los Angeles. Irving issued a joint statement with the Nets and the Anti-Defamation League on Wednesday, saying he opposed all forms of hatred. He and the Nets said they would each donate $500,000 toward organizations that work to eradicate hate. The National Basketball Association and union representing its players have also issued statements condemning hate speech. Neither the players union nor Irving's agent immediately responded to request for comment on Thursday night. "Kyrie Irving made a reckless decision to post a link to a film containing deeply offensive anti-Semitic material," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in his statement on Thursday. Irving's social media posts are not the first time that he has courted controversy in the NBA. He played in just 29 of the Nets' 82 regular season games for the 2021-22 season after refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine despite a mandate by the city of New York. While not specifically mentioning the issues with Irving, the Nets parted ways with head coach Steve Nash on Tuesday after a disappointing start to their season.

Brooklyn Nets suspend Kyrie Irving after star guard refuses to disavow anti-Semitism

Two-time NBA champion and former league Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant on Thursday became the latest high-profile athlete to buy a Major League Pickleball (MLP) expansion team.

The Brooklyn Nets forward and business partner Rich Kleiman announced that their Thirty Five Ventures (35V) firm purchased a pickleball team that will compete in the 2023 MLP season.

MLP Founder and Chief Executive Officer Steve Kuhn said Durant, who led the Golden State Warriors to NBA titles in 2017 and 2018, and Kleiman would be "game-changing partners" for the league.

"They not only bring passion for the game, but also unrivaled expertise to help us to continue to grow," Kuhn said in a news release.

"We're especially excited about their plans to bring pickleball to underserved communities – something they have done with basketball for years."

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Other MLP team owners and partners include four-time NBA champion LeBron James, Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Tom Brady and Drew Brees as well as former world number one tennis player Kim Clijsters.

The MLP will expand from 12 teams to 16 next season, with the number of events doubling from three to six and the total prize money set to surpass $2 million.

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Invented in 1965, pickleball is a fast-paced paddle sport similar to tennis and badminton, though it is played on a smaller court with a net using a perforated plastic ball.

Two-time NBA champion and former league Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant on Thursday became the latest high-profile athlete to buy a Major League Pickleball (MLP) expansion team.

Two-time NBA champion and former league Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant on Thursday became the latest high-profile athlete to buy a Major League Pickleball (MLP) expansion team. The Brooklyn Nets forward and business partner Rich Kleiman announced that their Thirty Five Ventures (35V) firm purchased a pickleball team that will compete in the 2023 MLP season. MLP Founder and Chief Executive Officer Steve Kuhn said Durant, who led the Golden State Warriors to NBA titles in 2017 and 2018, and Kleiman would be "game-changing partners" for the league. "They not only bring passion for the game, but also unrivaled expertise to help us to continue to grow," Kuhn said in a news release. "We're especially excited about their plans to bring pickleball to underserved communities – something they have done with basketball for years." Also Read: Aston Villa sack manager Steven Gerrard after poor start to season Other MLP team owners and partners include four-time NBA champion LeBron James, Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Tom Brady and Drew Brees as well as former world number one tennis player Kim Clijsters. The MLP will expand from 12 teams to 16 next season, with the number of events doubling from three to six and the total prize money set to surpass $2 million. Also Read: Ronaldo breaks silence after being dropped from Manchester United's squad for Chelsea clash Invented in 1965, pickleball is a fast-paced paddle sport similar to tennis and badminton, though it is played on a smaller court with a net using a perforated plastic ball.

NBA's Kevin Durant latest high-profile athlete to invest in pickleball

Early this month, NBA scouts and top decision-makers descended on Las Vegas to get a sneak peek into the future. The G League Ignite --&nbsp;an NBA developmental team in Nevada -- hosted the French pro team Metropolitan 92 in the first of twin exhibition games. Scoot Henderson made heads turn with his performance, but a 7 feet 4-inch teenager named Victor Wembanyama caught the attention of talent scouts.

Wembanyama, the 18-year-old French professional basketballer representing Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92, stands at 2.20 metres as a power forward for the Parisian side. He is regarded as one of the brightest&nbsp;talents going forward. In addition, he is touted to be the first pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He managed to increase the hype around him with&nbsp;his maiden appearance in the United States, scoring 37 points – comprising&nbsp;seven three-pointers from 11 attempts – along with belting five blocks.&nbsp;

Thus, Wembanyama's name continues to do the rounds in recent times. In late 2020, a video was posted on YouTube which displayed the young sensation's skills as he announced himself in the basketball fraternity. Given his height, use of the court and accuracy, it seems the teenager was always meant for the sport and possesses enough skills and talent to go the distance.

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IT IS ALL IN THE BLOOD

Born in the Paris suburb of Le Chesney in 2004, Wembanyama's father, Felix, was a long jumper (6 feet 6 inches). His mother, Elodie, is also over 6-feet and is a former basketball player and coach. As mentioned above, it is not only his height which makes him a tempting prospect. With a wingspan recently measured at 8 feet, Wembanyama is a formidable shot-blocker and rim protector and a&nbsp;lethal perimeter shooter as well.

BIG NAMES SHOWERING HUGE WORDS OF PRAISE

Nicola Alberani, the sporting director of French club SIG Strasbourg, is already gaga over Wembanyama. "It’s another game when he’s on the court,” he said as per The Guardian. “You think you can shoot, that he’s not that close, but then in reality he is so long, you don’t realise how close he is. And when he passes the ball, you can’t contest any pass. He is like an added point guard. When he shoots, he’s always wide open, because nobody can get there."

“I become a basketball fan when I watch him play. He’s a unique package of everything. As long as he can stay healthy, I really think he can be one of the best players that ever played the game."

'He's for sure a generational talent'

Kevin Durant has also joined in and recently said, as per si.com, "That type of talent and skill just puts a smile on your face if you play basketball. The evolution of the game has taken us this far. We got a 7'5" dude that's able to do everything on the court.&nbsp;It's inspiring to a lot of people." He added, "I heard a comment he said; somebody compared him to a few players in the league and he was like 'I think I'd do myself a disservice if I compared myself to one or two players. I'm going to take from everybody.' That's such a profound statement and made me a big fan of his."&nbsp;

LA Lakers' LeBron James lauded the youngster and said, "Everybody has been labeling this unicorn thing."&nbsp; 
 
"Everybody has been a unicorn for the last two years, but he's more like an alien. I've never seen -- no one has ever seen anyone as tall as he is, but as fluid and as graceful as he is out on the floor."

"... His ability to put the ball on the floor, shoot step-back jumpers out of the post, step-back 3s, catch-and-shoot 3s, block shots ... He's for sure a generational talent," he further asserted.

Early this month, NBA scouts and top decision-makers descended on Las Vegas to get a sneak peek into the future. The G League Ignite -- an NBA developmental team in Nevada -- hosted the French pro team Metropolitan 92 in the first of twin exhibition games.

Early this month, NBA scouts and top decision-makers descended on Las Vegas to get a sneak peek into the future. The G League Ignite -- an NBA developmental team in Nevada -- hosted the French pro team Metropolitan 92 in the first of twin exhibition games. Scoot Henderson made heads turn with his performance, but a 7 feet 4-inch teenager named Victor Wembanyama caught the attention of talent scouts. Wembanyama, the 18-year-old French professional basketballer representing Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92, stands at 2.20 metres as a power forward for the Parisian side. He is regarded as one of the brightest talents going forward. In addition, he is touted to be the first pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He managed to increase the hype around him with his maiden appearance in the United States, scoring 37 points – comprising seven three-pointers from 11 attempts – along with belting five blocks. Thus, Wembanyama's name continues to do the rounds in recent times. In late 2020, a video was posted on YouTube which displayed the young sensation's skills as he announced himself in the basketball fraternity. Given his height, use of the court and accuracy, it seems the teenager was always meant for the sport and possesses enough skills and talent to go the distance. × IT IS ALL IN THE BLOOD Born in the Paris suburb of Le Chesney in 2004, Wembanyama's father, Felix, was a long jumper (6 feet 6 inches). His mother, Elodie, is also over 6-feet and is a former basketball player and coach. As mentioned above, it is not only his height which makes him a tempting prospect. With a wingspan recently measured at 8 feet, Wembanyama is a formidable shot-blocker and rim protector and a lethal perimeter shooter as well. BIG NAMES SHOWERING HUGE WORDS OF PRAISE Nicola Alberani, the sporting director of French club SIG Strasbourg, is already gaga over Wembanyama. "It’s another game when he’s on the court,” he said as per The Guardian. “You think you can shoot, that he’s not that close, but then in reality he is so long, you don’t realise how close he is. And when he passes the ball, you can’t contest any pass. He is like an added point guard. When he shoots, he’s always wide open, because nobody can get there." “I become a basketball fan when I watch him play. He’s a unique package of everything. As long as he can stay healthy, I really think he can be one of the best players that ever played the game." 'He's for sure a generational talent' Kevin Durant has also joined in and recently said, as per si.com, "That type of talent and skill just puts a smile on your face if you play basketball. The evolution of the game has taken us this far. We got a 7'5" dude that's able to do everything on the court. It's inspiring to a lot of people." He added, "I heard a comment he said; somebody compared him to a few players in the league and he was like 'I think I'd do myself a disservice if I compared myself to one or two players. I'm going to take from everybody.' That's such a profound statement and made me a big fan of his." LA Lakers' LeBron James lauded the youngster and said, "Everybody has been labeling this unicorn thing." "Everybody has been a unicorn for the last two years, but he's more like an alien. I've never seen -- no one has ever seen anyone as tall as he is, but as fluid and as graceful as he is out on the floor." "... His ability to put the ball on the floor, shoot step-back jumpers out of the post, step-back 3s, catch-and-shoot 3s, block shots ... He's for sure a generational talent," he further asserted.

Victor Wembanyama: The 18-year-old 'generational talent' set to light up NBA

The Boston Celtics suspended head coach Ime&nbsp;Udoka&nbsp;for the entire 2022-23 NBA season on Thursday for "violations of team policies." "A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date," the team said in a statement. "The suspension takes effect immediately."

The Celtics did not specify what&nbsp;Udoka's policy violations were. ESPN and The Athletic reported that the 45-year-old Nigerian-American had a consensual relationship with a female member of the Celtics staff that broke the franchise's code of conduct.

The punishment, among the harshest ever issued to an NBA head coach, comes with the Celtics' pre-season training camp due to open next week. In a statement obtained by ESPN,&nbsp;Udoka&nbsp;said he accepted the Celtics' decision. "I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down,"&nbsp;Udoka&nbsp;said. "I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team's decision.

"Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment." Assistant coach Joe Mazzulla will step in as interim coach for the 2022-23 campaign, ESPN reported.&nbsp;Udoka's top assistant last season, Will Hardy, departed in June to become coach of the Utah Jazz. Udoka&nbsp;replaced Brad Stevens as coach last season after Stevens was promoted to president of basketball operations following the departure of Danny Ainge. Udoka&nbsp;played seven seasons in the NBA, the last four with San Antonio before his playing career ended in 2011.

He had stints as an assistant coach with San Antonio, Philadelphia and Brooklyn before taking charge of the Celtics in June 2021 and had an impressive debut season. Under&nbsp;Udoka's guidance Boston developed the top defense in the NBA and closed last season on a 28-7 run.

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They beat the star-studded Brooklyn Nets in the first round, then ousted the Milwaukee Bucks in seven games in the second round. They dispatched the Miami Heat in seven games in the Eastern Conference finals to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010. They fell in six games to the Golden State Warriors in the championship series in June, but players were full of praise for&nbsp;Udoka.

"When you have a coach who's willing to hold you accountable, and not just you but everyone on the team the same way, that's how you know you have the makings of a great coach who's trying to get somewhere special," Boston's Marcus Smart said during the NBA Finals.

<h2>- NBA scandals -</h2>

The turmoil adds uncertainty to the upcoming Celtics' campaign after what had been an encouraging off-season that included the acquisition of Malcolm Brogdon and veteran free agent Danilo Gallinari. Gallinari tore a ligament in his left knee playing for Italy in a Basketball World Cup qualifier in August and will miss the season. Celtics Center Rob Williams is expected to miss the start of the season after knee surgery.

The affair is also another scandal for the NBA as the October 18 start of the season approaches. Embattled Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver, banned for a year and fined $10 million by the NBA for racist misogynist remarks and workplace bullying, said Wednesday he will sell the Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury.

That announcement came after NBA stars including the Suns Chris Paul and the Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James denounced the NBA punishment meted out to Sarver as too lenient. Sarver also came under pressure from sponsors, with Suns backer PayPal saying it would not renew its deal with the team if Sarver returned after his suspension.

The Boston Celtics suspended head coach Ime Udoka for the entire 2022-23 NBA season on Thursday for "violations of team policies." "A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date," the team said in a statement.

The Boston Celtics suspended head coach Ime Udoka for the entire 2022-23 NBA season on Thursday for "violations of team policies." "A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date," the team said in a statement. "The suspension takes effect immediately." The Celtics did not specify what Udoka's policy violations were. ESPN and The Athletic reported that the 45-year-old Nigerian-American had a consensual relationship with a female member of the Celtics staff that broke the franchise's code of conduct. The punishment, among the harshest ever issued to an NBA head coach, comes with the Celtics' pre-season training camp due to open next week. In a statement obtained by ESPN, Udoka said he accepted the Celtics' decision. "I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down," Udoka said. "I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team's decision. "Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment." Assistant coach Joe Mazzulla will step in as interim coach for the 2022-23 campaign, ESPN reported. Udoka's top assistant last season, Will Hardy, departed in June to become coach of the Utah Jazz. Udoka replaced Brad Stevens as coach last season after Stevens was promoted to president of basketball operations following the departure of Danny Ainge. Udoka played seven seasons in the NBA, the last four with San Antonio before his playing career ended in 2011. He had stints as an assistant coach with San Antonio, Philadelphia and Brooklyn before taking charge of the Celtics in June 2021 and had an impressive debut season. Under Udoka's guidance Boston developed the top defense in the NBA and closed last season on a 28-7 run. ALSO READ | Spain women's national football team in spot of bother following resignation of 15 players They beat the star-studded Brooklyn Nets in the first round, then ousted the Milwaukee Bucks in seven games in the second round. They dispatched the Miami Heat in seven games in the Eastern Conference finals to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010. They fell in six games to the Golden State Warriors in the championship series in June, but players were full of praise for Udoka. "When you have a coach who's willing to hold you accountable, and not just you but everyone on the team the same way, that's how you know you have the makings of a great coach who's trying to get somewhere special," Boston's Marcus Smart said during the NBA Finals. - NBA scandals - The turmoil adds uncertainty to the upcoming Celtics' campaign after what had been an encouraging off-season that included the acquisition of Malcolm Brogdon and veteran free agent Danilo Gallinari. Gallinari tore a ligament in his left knee playing for Italy in a Basketball World Cup qualifier in August and will miss the season. Celtics Center Rob Williams is expected to miss the start of the season after knee surgery. The affair is also another scandal for the NBA as the October 18 start of the season approaches. Embattled Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver, banned for a year and fined $10 million by the NBA for racist misogynist remarks and workplace bullying, said Wednesday he will sell the Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury. That announcement came after NBA stars including the Suns Chris Paul and the Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James denounced the NBA punishment meted out to Sarver as too lenient. Sarver also came under pressure from sponsors, with Suns backer PayPal saying it would not renew its deal with the team if Sarver returned after his suspension.

Boston Celtics suspend coach Ime Udoka for entire NBA season for 'violations of team policies'

A jersey worn by basketball legend Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;during Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals, his last title victory, sold for a record $10.1 million Thursday, Sotheby's said. The iconic red Chicago Bulls jersey, with&nbsp;Jordan's number 23 on the back, went for the highest amount of any game-worn sports memorabilia ever, the auction house said, and set a new record for a basketball jersey at auction.

The final sum was twice Sotheby's high estimate, and the jersey drew a total of 20 bids. The&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;swag beat a record set in May for the most expensive sports memorabilia ever sold, which had been Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" jersey. The previous record for a game-worn basketball jersey was for one autographed by Kobe Bryant, who wore it in 1996-97. That piece of NBA memorabilia went for $3.7 million, according to Sotheby's.

The&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;jersey is only the second worn by the star during his six championships to be sold at auction. It is also the most expensive item of Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;sports memorabilia to be sold. The previous record was for $2.7 million, notched by an autographed relic card from 1997-98.

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<h2>- 'The Last Dance' -</h2>

Most of&nbsp;Jordan's NBA Finals jerseys remain in private hands, according to Sotheby's, although he has donated one to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Jordan, now 59, spent the bulk of his basketball career with the Bulls, with whom he won all six of his titles, but came out of retirement in 2001 to play two seasons with the Washington Wizards. His final season with the Bulls was detailed in the hit ESPN/Netflix documentary "The Last Dance" released in 2020.

Brahm Wachter, head of streetwear and modern collectables at Sotheby's, said in a statement that the sale "solidifies Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;as the undisputed GOAT, proving his name and incomparable legacy is just as relevant as it was nearly 25 years ago."

The jersey was first publicly displayed in Monterey, California before being shipped to New York, where fans could view it during the online auction. The New York auction house, owned since 2019 by French-Israeli telecom magnate Patrick Drahi, previously sold a pair of&nbsp;Jordan's sneakers for nearly $1.5 million.

The retired basketball star currently owns the Charlotte Hornets, located in his childhood home of North Carolina, and reportedly still earns millions in royalties each year from sales of Nike's Air&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;brand of sneakers.

A jersey worn by basketball legend Michael Jordan during Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals, his last title victory, sold for a record $10.1 million Thursday, Sotheby's said.

A jersey worn by basketball legend Michael Jordan during Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals, his last title victory, sold for a record $10.1 million Thursday, Sotheby's said. The iconic red Chicago Bulls jersey, with Jordan's number 23 on the back, went for the highest amount of any game-worn sports memorabilia ever, the auction house said, and set a new record for a basketball jersey at auction. The final sum was twice Sotheby's high estimate, and the jersey drew a total of 20 bids. The Jordan swag beat a record set in May for the most expensive sports memorabilia ever sold, which had been Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" jersey. The previous record for a game-worn basketball jersey was for one autographed by Kobe Bryant, who wore it in 1996-97. That piece of NBA memorabilia went for $3.7 million, according to Sotheby's. The Jordan jersey is only the second worn by the star during his six championships to be sold at auction. It is also the most expensive item of Michael Jordan sports memorabilia to be sold. The previous record was for $2.7 million, notched by an autographed relic card from 1997-98. ALSO READ | Social media sensation Hasbulla Magomedov pens five-year deal with UFC - 'The Last Dance' - Most of Jordan's NBA Finals jerseys remain in private hands, according to Sotheby's, although he has donated one to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Jordan, now 59, spent the bulk of his basketball career with the Bulls, with whom he won all six of his titles, but came out of retirement in 2001 to play two seasons with the Washington Wizards. His final season with the Bulls was detailed in the hit ESPN/Netflix documentary "The Last Dance" released in 2020. Brahm Wachter, head of streetwear and modern collectables at Sotheby's, said in a statement that the sale "solidifies Michael Jordan as the undisputed GOAT, proving his name and incomparable legacy is just as relevant as it was nearly 25 years ago." The jersey was first publicly displayed in Monterey, California before being shipped to New York, where fans could view it during the online auction. The New York auction house, owned since 2019 by French-Israeli telecom magnate Patrick Drahi, previously sold a pair of Jordan's sneakers for nearly $1.5 million. The retired basketball star currently owns the Charlotte Hornets, located in his childhood home of North Carolina, and reportedly still earns millions in royalties each year from sales of Nike's Air Jordan brand of sneakers.

Basketball legend Michael Jordan's 'Last Dance' jersey sells for whopping $10.1 million

Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp recently offered his candid take on Chelsea FC's babyfaced co-owner Todd Boehly's plans of potentially setting up an All-Star game in the Premier League inspired by a system of matches that are conducted in the United States-based leagues.

Todd Boehly, who is also the co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, recently took up part-ownership of the renowned London-based Chelsea FC. After a brief stint as the club's frontman, Boehly has suggested the Premier League to take a page out of the notebook of American Sports and participate in All-Star games, which is the norm in the NBA and the MLB.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-pssed-off-xavi-reacts-as-barcelona-lose-to-bayern-munich-in-ucl-says-we-were-better-515982" hreflang="en">'I'm p*ssed off' - Xavi reacts as Barcelona lose to Bayern Munich in UCL, says 'we were better'</a>

Klopp, however, is not too impressed by the idea, admitting that matters function much differently in football compared to the way it does in NBA or MLB. He offered fans some insight into the same while in conversation with the media in the aftermath of Liverpool's recent 2-1 Champions League victory against Ajax.

"When he finds a date for that, he can call me. He forgets that in the big sports in America, these players have four-month breaks. It is completely different in football. What can I say? Does he want to bring the Harlem Globetrotters as well and let them play against a football team? I am surprised by the question so please don't judge my answer too much. But maybe he can explain it to me at some point and find a proper date.&nbsp;

"Not sure people want to see that. Imagine that:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.in/football/team/_/id/360/manchester-united">[Manchester] United</a>&nbsp;players, Liverpool players,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.in/football/player/_/id/198940/Everton">Everton</a>&nbsp;players altogether in one team. It is not a national team. North against south. That means north east [too],&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.in/football/team/_/id/361">Newcastle</a>... interesting game. And all the London guys together,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.in/football/team?id=359">Arsenal</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.in/football/team/_/id/367/tottenham-hotspur">Tottenham</a>, great. Did he really say it? Interesting."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-matchday-2-marred-by-nazi-salutes-and-protests-against-delaying-fixtures-over-queens-death-516008" hreflang="en">Champions League matchday 2 marred by Nazi salutes and protests against delaying fixtures over Queen's death</a>

The Premier League, in it's longstanding history, has never experimented with anything like an All-Star game. Whether Todd Boehly could be the one to spearhead the charge to kickstart this practice is something that remains to be seen.

Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp recently offered his candid take on Chelsea FC's babyfaced co-owner Todd Boehly's plans of potentially setting up an All-Star game in the Premier League inspired by a system of matches that are conducted in the United States-based leagues.

Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp recently offered his candid take on Chelsea FC's babyfaced co-owner Todd Boehly's plans of potentially setting up an All-Star game in the Premier League inspired by a system of matches that are conducted in the United States-based leagues. Todd Boehly, who is also the co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, recently took up part-ownership of the renowned London-based Chelsea FC. After a brief stint as the club's frontman, Boehly has suggested the Premier League to take a page out of the notebook of American Sports and participate in All-Star games, which is the norm in the NBA and the MLB. ALSO READ: 'I'm p*ssed off' - Xavi reacts as Barcelona lose to Bayern Munich in UCL, says 'we were better' Klopp, however, is not too impressed by the idea, admitting that matters function much differently in football compared to the way it does in NBA or MLB. He offered fans some insight into the same while in conversation with the media in the aftermath of Liverpool's recent 2-1 Champions League victory against Ajax. "When he finds a date for that, he can call me. He forgets that in the big sports in America, these players have four-month breaks. It is completely different in football. What can I say? Does he want to bring the Harlem Globetrotters as well and let them play against a football team? I am surprised by the question so please don't judge my answer too much. But maybe he can explain it to me at some point and find a proper date. "Not sure people want to see that. Imagine that: [Manchester] United players, Liverpool players, Everton players altogether in one team. It is not a national team. North against south. That means north east [too], Newcastle... interesting game. And all the London guys together, Arsenal, Tottenham, great. Did he really say it? Interesting." ALSO READ: Champions League matchday 2 marred by Nazi salutes and protests against delaying fixtures over Queen's death The Premier League, in it's longstanding history, has never experimented with anything like an All-Star game. Whether Todd Boehly could be the one to spearhead the charge to kickstart this practice is something that remains to be seen.

'Bring the Harlem Globetrotters'- Jurgen Klopp rips into Todd Boehly for suggesting an NBA-esque All-Star Game

The&nbsp;Phoenix Suns have been dealt a heavy blow after their owner&nbsp;and that of sister team Phoenix Mercury,&nbsp; Robert Sarver, was slapped with a one-year-long suspension. In addition, he found himself at the receiving end of a whopping $10 million fine.

The NBA conducted an investigation, which prompted the authorities to level these penalties on the Suns' frontman. The probe revealed that Sarver had indulged in what the league defined as&nbsp;“workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies”.

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This comes nearly a year after the league initially contacted a law firm to get to the bottom of several allegations levelled against Sarver that claimed that he had a history of&nbsp;misogynistic,&nbsp;racist and hostile incidents.

Sarver, who has been at the helm of the franchise for over two decades, found himself disagreeing with certain findings of the investigation. However, he accepted the consequences of his actions and vowed to abide by the league's decision regardless. He further issued an apology to all those employees, who may have felt offended by his statements.

The report stated that Sarver 'repeated or purported to repeat the N-word on at least five occasions spanning his tenure with the Suns.' However, it is interesting to note that the investigation could not prove whether his usage of the slur was meant to demean or degrade any individuals.

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Sarver also issued a statement after finding himself at the receiving end of the heftiest fine that is allowed by the NBA. "I take full responsibility for what I have done. I am sorry for causing this pain, and these errors in judgment are not consistent with my personal philosophy or my values.

"This moment is an opportunity for me to demonstrate a capacity to learn and grow as we continue to build a working culture where every employee feels comfortable and valued,” said Sarver.

The Phoenix Suns have been dealt a heavy blow after their owner and that of sister team Phoenix Mercury, Robert Sarver, was slapped with a one-year-long suspension.

The Phoenix Suns have been dealt a heavy blow after their owner and that of sister team Phoenix Mercury, Robert Sarver, was slapped with a one-year-long suspension. In addition, he found himself at the receiving end of a whopping $10 million fine. The NBA conducted an investigation, which prompted the authorities to level these penalties on the Suns' frontman. The probe revealed that Sarver had indulged in what the league defined as “workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies”. ALSO READ: Champions League matchday 2 marred by Nazi salutes and protests against delaying fixtures over Queen's death This comes nearly a year after the league initially contacted a law firm to get to the bottom of several allegations levelled against Sarver that claimed that he had a history of misogynistic, racist and hostile incidents. Sarver, who has been at the helm of the franchise for over two decades, found himself disagreeing with certain findings of the investigation. However, he accepted the consequences of his actions and vowed to abide by the league's decision regardless. He further issued an apology to all those employees, who may have felt offended by his statements. The report stated that Sarver 'repeated or purported to repeat the N-word on at least five occasions spanning his tenure with the Suns.' However, it is interesting to note that the investigation could not prove whether his usage of the slur was meant to demean or degrade any individuals. ALSO READ: India's campaign will be the same as it was at Asia Cup: Danish Kaneria warns Rohit Sharma & Co. Sarver also issued a statement after finding himself at the receiving end of the heftiest fine that is allowed by the NBA. "I take full responsibility for what I have done. I am sorry for causing this pain, and these errors in judgment are not consistent with my personal philosophy or my values. "This moment is an opportunity for me to demonstrate a capacity to learn and grow as we continue to build a working culture where every employee feels comfortable and valued,” said Sarver.

Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver slapped with a one-year ban and a $10m for misconduct

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday.

Durant, a two-times NBA champion and twice Finals MVP, had requested a trade at the end of June before free agency, with the 12-times All-Star linked to teams such as the Boston Celtics, the Miami Heat and the Toronto Raptors.

"Steve Nash and I, together with (Nets co-owners) Joe Tsai and Clara Wu Tsai, met with Kevin Durant and (his manager) Rich Kleiman in Los Angeles yesterday," Nets General Manager Sean Marks said in a statement.

"We have agreed to move forward with our partnership. We are focusing on basketball, with one collective goal in mind: build a lasting franchise to bring a championship to Brooklyn."

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Last year, Durant had signed a four-year, $198 million extension that begins this season. He was sixth on the list of the world's highest-paid athletes over the last year according to Forbes, earning $92 million in total earnings.

He averaged 29.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 55 games last season.

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Durant had joined Brooklyn as a free agent in 2019 alongside Kyrie Irving in a bid to form a championship winning team along with James Harden, who was later traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in a deal that brought Ben Simmons to the Nets. 
&nbsp;

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday.

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday. Durant, a two-times NBA champion and twice Finals MVP, had requested a trade at the end of June before free agency, with the 12-times All-Star linked to teams such as the Boston Celtics, the Miami Heat and the Toronto Raptors. "Steve Nash and I, together with (Nets co-owners) Joe Tsai and Clara Wu Tsai, met with Kevin Durant and (his manager) Rich Kleiman in Los Angeles yesterday," Nets General Manager Sean Marks said in a statement. "We have agreed to move forward with our partnership. We are focusing on basketball, with one collective goal in mind: build a lasting franchise to bring a championship to Brooklyn." Also Read: US disapproves of Dennis Rodman's planned rescue mission for basketball star Brittney Griner Last year, Durant had signed a four-year, $198 million extension that begins this season. He was sixth on the list of the world's highest-paid athletes over the last year according to Forbes, earning $92 million in total earnings. He averaged 29.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 55 games last season. Also Read: Pakistan Army to assist Qatar wth security during FIFA World Cup 2022 Durant had joined Brooklyn as a free agent in 2019 alongside Kyrie Irving in a bid to form a championship winning team along with James Harden, who was later traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in a deal that brought Ben Simmons to the Nets.

Kevin Durant drops trade demand, set to stay with Brooklyn Nets after meeting with owners and Steve Nash

Eccentric former NBA star Dennis Rodman is planning a trip to Russia in an effort to seek the release of imprisoned WNBA player Brittney Griner, NBC News reported on Sunday.

The network quoted Rodman as saying that he was hoping to fly to Russia this week in an attempt to help basketball superstar Griner, who was sentenced to nine years in jail by a Moscow court earlier this month on a drug charge.

"I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman told NBC. "I'm trying to go this week."

No further details were provided by Rodman, who was speaking at a restaurant in Washington where he was attending a sports apparel convention, according to NBC.

A senior official for US President Joe Biden's administration said in a statement to AFP, "it is public information that the Administration has made a significant offer to the Russians and anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder release efforts."

Rodman, 61, a five-time former NBA champion, has a record of unorthodox forays into geopolitics.

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He has formed a relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un over the past decade, and has made several trips to the reclusive state. He traveled to Singapore in 2018 when Kim famously met former US President Donald Trump.

Rodman has also spoken approvingly of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the past. In 2014 he described Putin as "actually cool" after meeting the Russian leader in Moscow.

Two-time Olympic basketball gold medalist and Women's NBA champion Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport in February for possessing vape cartridges with a small amount of cannabis oil.

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The 31-year-old, who was in Russia to play for the professional Yekaterinburg team during her off-season from the Phoenix Mercury, was charged with smuggling narcotics and was sentenced to nine years in a penal colony in early August.

Griner pleaded guilty to the charges, but said she did not intend to use the banned substance in Russia.

Since her arrest, Moscow and Washington have been in talks about a potential prisoner exchange, despite soaring tensions over Russia's military intervention in Ukraine.

Eccentric former NBA star Dennis Rodman is planning a trip to Russia in an effort to seek the release of imprisoned WNBA player Brittney Griner, NBC News reported on Sunday.

Eccentric former NBA star Dennis Rodman is planning a trip to Russia in an effort to seek the release of imprisoned WNBA player Brittney Griner, NBC News reported on Sunday. The network quoted Rodman as saying that he was hoping to fly to Russia this week in an attempt to help basketball superstar Griner, who was sentenced to nine years in jail by a Moscow court earlier this month on a drug charge. "I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman told NBC. "I'm trying to go this week." No further details were provided by Rodman, who was speaking at a restaurant in Washington where he was attending a sports apparel convention, according to NBC. A senior official for US President Joe Biden's administration said in a statement to AFP, "it is public information that the Administration has made a significant offer to the Russians and anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder release efforts." Rodman, 61, a five-time former NBA champion, has a record of unorthodox forays into geopolitics. Also Read: Brittney Griner convicted: A day after verdict, Russia ready to discuss swap with US He has formed a relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un over the past decade, and has made several trips to the reclusive state. He traveled to Singapore in 2018 when Kim famously met former US President Donald Trump. Rodman has also spoken approvingly of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the past. In 2014 he described Putin as "actually cool" after meeting the Russian leader in Moscow. Two-time Olympic basketball gold medalist and Women's NBA champion Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport in February for possessing vape cartridges with a small amount of cannabis oil. Also Read: Brittney Griner guilty of deliberate drug smuggling: How it panned out for two-time Olympic gold medallist The 31-year-old, who was in Russia to play for the professional Yekaterinburg team during her off-season from the Phoenix Mercury, was charged with smuggling narcotics and was sentenced to nine years in a penal colony in early August. Griner pleaded guilty to the charges, but said she did not intend to use the banned substance in Russia. Since her arrest, Moscow and Washington have been in talks about a potential prisoner exchange, despite soaring tensions over Russia's military intervention in Ukraine.

Former NBA star Dennis Rodman planning Russia trip to seek release of jailed Brittney Griner - Report

LeBron James has agreed to terms on a two-year NBA contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $97.1 million, according to multiple reports on Wednesday.

The deal, according to ESPN and The Athletic, includes a player option for the 2024-25 season, in which James could see his 17-year-old son Bronny become an NBA rookie.

The contract could be worth $111 million to the superstar forward if the NBA salary cap makes a major jump for the 2023-24 campaign.

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Terms would give James a career guaranteed total earnings number of $532 million, edging the four-time NBA champion and four-time NBA Most Valuable Player ahead of Kevin Durant for the record guaranteed career earnings total.

James, 37, has said he wants to play through the 2024-25 season for the chance to play alongside his eldest son, a top high school prospect in Los Angeles.

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James, who would have been entering the final season of his Lakers' contract in October, will now be able to negotiate a new deal or become a free agent in two seasons, the same options available to star teammate Anthony Davis.

The Lakers won their most recent NBA title in 2020 but missed the playoffs last season, going 33-49, and James was limited to 56 games by injuries although he averaged 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists a game.

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LeBron James has agreed to terms on a two-year NBA contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $97.1 million, according to multiple reports on Wednesday.

LeBron James has agreed to terms on a two-year NBA contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $97.1 million, according to multiple reports on Wednesday. The deal, according to ESPN and The Athletic, includes a player option for the 2024-25 season, in which James could see his 17-year-old son Bronny become an NBA rookie. The contract could be worth $111 million to the superstar forward if the NBA salary cap makes a major jump for the 2023-24 campaign. Also read | Cristiano Ronaldo receives legal caution from police after smashing child's phone following defeat Terms would give James a career guaranteed total earnings number of $532 million, edging the four-time NBA champion and four-time NBA Most Valuable Player ahead of Kevin Durant for the record guaranteed career earnings total. James, 37, has said he wants to play through the 2024-25 season for the chance to play alongside his eldest son, a top high school prospect in Los Angeles. Also read | Medical experts warn athletes against relying on unproven intravenous nutrition as trend grows in world sports James, who would have been entering the final season of his Lakers' contract in October, will now be able to negotiate a new deal or become a free agent in two seasons, the same options available to star teammate Anthony Davis. The Lakers won their most recent NBA title in 2020 but missed the playoffs last season, going 33-49, and James was limited to 56 games by injuries although he averaged 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists a game. Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

LeBron agrees to a two-year Lakers extension for $97 million: Reports

The sporting world, in particular, the basketballing world became a lot poorer on Sunday (July 31) as Boston Celtics' great Bill Russell died at the age of 88. Russell's family took to his official Twitter account to share the news.&nbsp;

According to the statement, Bill died 'peacefully' with his wife Jeannine by his side.&nbsp;

"Bill Russell, the most prolific winner in American sports history, passed away peacefully today at age 88, with his wife, Jeannine, by his side. Arrangements for his memorial service will be announced soon." read the statement.&nbsp;

The family statement also added, "Bill's wife, Jeannine, and his many friends and family thank you for keeping Bill in your prayers. Perhaps you'll relive one or two of the golden moments he gave us, or recall his trademark laugh as he delighted in explaining the real story behind how those moments unfolded. And we hope each of us can find a new way to act or speak up with Bill's uncompromising, dignified and always constructive commitment to principle. That would be one last, and lasting, win for our beloved #6."

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An announcement… <a href="https://t.co/KMJ7pG4R5Z">pic.twitter.com/KMJ7pG4R5Z</a>
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Boston Celtics, Russell's home franchise also released a statement and paid homage to their greatest star.

“To be the greatest champion in your sport, to revolutionize the way the game is played, and to be a societal leader all at once seems unthinkable, but that is who Bill Russell was,”

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To be the greatest champion in your sport, to revolutionize the way the game is played, and to be a societal leader all at once seems unthinkable, but that is who Bill Russell was. (1/4) <a href="https://t.co/K0Ue0hKiLs">pic.twitter.com/K0Ue0hKiLs</a>
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Russell redefined the way the game of basketball was played. He brought an intense rebounding and defensive technique that rivalled those playing flashy basketball. Russell averaged 15.1 points and 22.5 rebounds per game for his career.

However, the 11-time NBA champion and a 12-time All-Star had a deeper impact, not only on the basketball generations to come but also on the social fabric of America.

At a time when racism was rife in the US, Bill became a role model, who was idolised by both whites and non-whites alike. Russell attended Dr&nbsp;Martin Luther King's iconic 'I have a dream' speech whilst sitting in the first row and later marched with him.

He also supported Muhammad Ali when the pugilist was targeted for his views on racism. Bill was such a trailblazer that he&nbsp;became the first African-American coach of an NBA franchise.&nbsp;

Apart from leading the Celtics to numerous titles, Bill also won an Olympic gold medal in 1956 with the USA whilst leading the team. In 2011, the five-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) was awarded the&nbsp;Medal of Freedom by the Obama government.&nbsp;

His passing has invited tearful and sincere condolence&nbsp;messages from across the globe. It's rare for a player to have such an impact on and off the court. However, Bill was one of those players that are born once in a century.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The sporting world, in particular, the basketballing world became a lot poorer on Sunday (July 31) as Boston Celtics' great Bill Russell died at the age of 88. Russell's family took to his official Twitter account to share the news.

The sporting world, in particular, the basketballing world became a lot poorer on Sunday (July 31) as Boston Celtics' great Bill Russell died at the age of 88. Russell's family took to his official Twitter account to share the news. According to the statement, Bill died 'peacefully' with his wife Jeannine by his side. "Bill Russell, the most prolific winner in American sports history, passed away peacefully today at age 88, with his wife, Jeannine, by his side. Arrangements for his memorial service will be announced soon." read the statement. The family statement also added, "Bill's wife, Jeannine, and his many friends and family thank you for keeping Bill in your prayers. Perhaps you'll relive one or two of the golden moments he gave us, or recall his trademark laugh as he delighted in explaining the real story behind how those moments unfolded. And we hope each of us can find a new way to act or speak up with Bill's uncompromising, dignified and always constructive commitment to principle. That would be one last, and lasting, win for our beloved #6." An announcement… pic.twitter.com/KMJ7pG4R5Z — TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) July 31, 2022 × Boston Celtics, Russell's home franchise also released a statement and paid homage to their greatest star. “To be the greatest champion in your sport, to revolutionize the way the game is played, and to be a societal leader all at once seems unthinkable, but that is who Bill Russell was,” To be the greatest champion in your sport, to revolutionize the way the game is played, and to be a societal leader all at once seems unthinkable, but that is who Bill Russell was. (1/4) pic.twitter.com/K0Ue0hKiLs — Boston Celtics (@celtics) July 31, 2022 × Russell redefined the way the game of basketball was played. He brought an intense rebounding and defensive technique that rivalled those playing flashy basketball. Russell averaged 15.1 points and 22.5 rebounds per game for his career. However, the 11-time NBA champion and a 12-time All-Star had a deeper impact, not only on the basketball generations to come but also on the social fabric of America. At a time when racism was rife in the US, Bill became a role model, who was idolised by both whites and non-whites alike. Russell attended Dr Martin Luther King's iconic 'I have a dream' speech whilst sitting in the first row and later marched with him. He also supported Muhammad Ali when the pugilist was targeted for his views on racism. Bill was such a trailblazer that he became the first African-American coach of an NBA franchise. Apart from leading the Celtics to numerous titles, Bill also won an Olympic gold medal in 1956 with the USA whilst leading the team. In 2011, the five-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) was awarded the Medal of Freedom by the Obama government. His passing has invited tearful and sincere condolence messages from across the globe. It's rare for a player to have such an impact on and off the court. However, Bill was one of those players that are born once in a century. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NBA great and civil rights activist, Bill Russell passes away at the age of 88

A dazzling performance from Stephen Curry powered the&nbsp;Golden&nbsp;State&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;to a seventh NBA Finals crown on Thursday, securing a 103-90 victory over the Boston Celtics to clinch a 4-2 series triumph.

Warriors&nbsp;talisman Curry produced yet another masterpiece with 34 points, seven assists and seven rebounds as Golden State wrapped up their fourth title in eight years to silence Boston's raucous TD Garden.

The 34-year-old Curry was named NBA Finals Most Valuable Player after the victory -- the first time the four-time NBA champion has scooped the award.

"I'm so proud of our group, I thank god every day that I get to play this game with some amazing people," an emotional Curry said afterwards.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golden-state-warriors-on-verge-of-nba-title-as-andrew-wiggins-26-points-punishes-boston-celtics-487995">Golden State Warriors on verge of NBA title as Andrew Wiggins' 26 points punishes Boston Celtics</a>

"This is what it's all about, especially after everything we've gone through in the past three years."

The win completed a dramatic journey back to the pinnacle of the NBA for the&nbsp;Warriors, who just two seasons ago had the worst record in the league as the franchise battled injuries and the departure of key personnel.

"At the beginning of the season nobody thought we'd be here - except everybody on this court right now. It's surreal," Curry added.

"We were so far away from it. We hit rock bottom with injuries and the long road of work ahead, trying to fill in the right pieces with the right guys.

"You never take this for granted because you never know when you'll be back here."&nbsp;

Delighted&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;coach Steve Kerr admitted the team's fourth championship of his reign had been the most unexpected.

"This might be the most unlikely one," Kerr said. "But I hang around superstars - and if you hang around superstars, good things happen."

&nbsp;Fast start&nbsp;

Curry, an ever-present throughout the highs and lows of the&nbsp;Warriors' journey since 2015, led a balanced offensive effort as&nbsp;Golden&nbsp;State&nbsp;became just the second visiting team to lift the trophy on Boston's home court after the 1985 Los Angeles Lakers.

Andrew Wiggins came up with&nbsp;18 points, six rebounds, four steals and three blocks in a superb all-round display, while veterans Klay Thompson and Draymond Green chipped in with 12 points each. Jordan Poole added 15 from the bench.

Jaylen Brown led the Boston scoring with 34 points while Al Horford added 19 points.

A pulsating game swung decisively in&nbsp;Golden&nbsp;State's favor during the first two quarters.

The Celtics, trying to force a game seven, had opened with intent, racing into an early 14-2 lead against a&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;side caught napping.

But Boston's fast start was the cue for a spectacular burst by&nbsp;Golden&nbsp;State, who tightened their defense to secure key stops and then began to find the target at the other end.

After cutting the Boston lead to six points at 22-16, the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;pulled away, with Green, Curry and Poole all rattling in three-pointers to put&nbsp;Golden&nbsp;State&nbsp;into a 27-22 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Two more Poole three-pointers in the opening moments of the second quarter helped the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;sprint into a 15-point lead, up 37-22 after a 21-0 run – the largest run in NBA Finals history.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/boston-celtics-beat-golden-state-warriors-take-2-1-lead-in-nba-finals-486458">Boston Celtics beat Golden State Warriors, take 2-1 lead in NBA Finals</a>

The&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;maintained the 15-point advantage up to half-time, leading 54-39 at the break.

Curry ominously looked increasingly comfortable from beyond the arc, and a step back three from 28 feet put the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;into a 72-50 lead – a 22-point margin their biggest lead of the night in the third quarter.

But Boston refused to surrender, and Horford brought the Garden crowd to its feet after a layup and a free throw got the Celtics to within nine points of the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;at 74-65.

Green settled the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;nerves with an ice-cold jumper from 21 feet to help ensure the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;would take a double-digit advantage into the final quarter, leading 76-66.

The Celtics again chipped away at the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;lead, but every time they got to within single digits,&nbsp;Golden&nbsp;State&nbsp;managed to find a big play to extend their lead.

A key passage came midway through the fourth. A Brown three-pointer shrank the&nbsp;Warriors' lead to just eight points at 86-78, but Wiggins then rammed in a corner three to make it 89-78 and Green followed with a dunk to put the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;13 clear.

That margin held as the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;celebrated their seventh title.&nbsp;

A dazzling performance from Stephen Curry powered the Golden State Warriors to a seventh NBA Finals crown on Thursday, securing a 103-90 victory over the Boston Celtics to clinch a 4-2 series triumph.

A dazzling performance from Stephen Curry powered the Golden State Warriors to a seventh NBA Finals crown on Thursday, securing a 103-90 victory over the Boston Celtics to clinch a 4-2 series triumph. Warriors talisman Curry produced yet another masterpiece with 34 points, seven assists and seven rebounds as Golden State wrapped up their fourth title in eight years to silence Boston's raucous TD Garden. The 34-year-old Curry was named NBA Finals Most Valuable Player after the victory -- the first time the four-time NBA champion has scooped the award. "I'm so proud of our group, I thank god every day that I get to play this game with some amazing people," an emotional Curry said afterwards. Also read | Golden State Warriors on verge of NBA title as Andrew Wiggins' 26 points punishes Boston Celtics "This is what it's all about, especially after everything we've gone through in the past three years." The win completed a dramatic journey back to the pinnacle of the NBA for the Warriors, who just two seasons ago had the worst record in the league as the franchise battled injuries and the departure of key personnel. "At the beginning of the season nobody thought we'd be here - except everybody on this court right now. It's surreal," Curry added. "We were so far away from it. We hit rock bottom with injuries and the long road of work ahead, trying to fill in the right pieces with the right guys. "You never take this for granted because you never know when you'll be back here." Delighted Warriors coach Steve Kerr admitted the team's fourth championship of his reign had been the most unexpected. "This might be the most unlikely one," Kerr said. "But I hang around superstars - and if you hang around superstars, good things happen." Fast start Curry, an ever-present throughout the highs and lows of the Warriors' journey since 2015, led a balanced offensive effort as Golden State became just the second visiting team to lift the trophy on Boston's home court after the 1985 Los Angeles Lakers. Andrew Wiggins came up with 18 points, six rebounds, four steals and three blocks in a superb all-round display, while veterans Klay Thompson and Draymond Green chipped in with 12 points each. Jordan Poole added 15 from the bench. Jaylen Brown led the Boston scoring with 34 points while Al Horford added 19 points. A pulsating game swung decisively in Golden State's favor during the first two quarters. The Celtics, trying to force a game seven, had opened with intent, racing into an early 14-2 lead against a Warriors side caught napping. But Boston's fast start was the cue for a spectacular burst by Golden State, who tightened their defense to secure key stops and then began to find the target at the other end. After cutting the Boston lead to six points at 22-16, the Warriors pulled away, with Green, Curry and Poole all rattling in three-pointers to put Golden State into a 27-22 lead at the end of the first quarter. Two more Poole three-pointers in the opening moments of the second quarter helped the Warriors sprint into a 15-point lead, up 37-22 after a 21-0 run – the largest run in NBA Finals history. Also read | Boston Celtics beat Golden State Warriors, take 2-1 lead in NBA Finals The Warriors maintained the 15-point advantage up to half-time, leading 54-39 at the break. Curry ominously looked increasingly comfortable from beyond the arc, and a step back three from 28 feet put the Warriors into a 72-50 lead – a 22-point margin their biggest lead of the night in the third quarter. But Boston refused to surrender, and Horford brought the Garden crowd to its feet after a layup and a free throw got the Celtics to within nine points of the Warriors at 74-65. Green settled the Warriors nerves with an ice-cold jumper from 21 feet to help ensure the Warriors would take a double-digit advantage into the final quarter, leading 76-66. The Celtics again chipped away at the Warriors lead, but every time they got to within single digits, Golden State managed to find a big play to extend their lead. A key passage came midway through the fourth. A Brown three-pointer shrank the Warriors' lead to just eight points at 86-78, but Wiggins then rammed in a corner three to make it 89-78 and Green followed with a dunk to put the Warriors 13 clear. That margin held as the Warriors celebrated their seventh title.

Curry, Warriors storm to seventh NBA crown

Listing world's most lucrative sports leagues after IPL media rights auction

Stephen Curry produced a dazzling 43-point display as the Golden State Warriors battled past the Boston Celtics 107-97 to level the NBA Finals series at 2-2 on Friday. With the Warriors needing a victory at Boston's TD Garden to avoid going down 3-1 in the best-of-seven series, Curry delivered one of the best performances of his glittering career to reignite Golden State's hopes of a seventh championship.

Curry had entered game four with concerns swirling over his health after suffering a knock to his foot in the Warriors' game three defeat on Wednesday. But the 34-year-old two-time NBA Most Valuable Player emphatically laid to rest any doubts about his fitness as he single-handedly hauled Golden State back into the finals with game five back in San Francisco on Monday.

Curry finished with 43 points, 10 rebounds and four assists on a night when Golden State again struggled to find their offensive rhythm for long periods against a powerful Boston line-up.

Klay Thompson added 18 points for the Warriors while Andrew Wiggins produced 17 points and 16 rebounds in a crucial contribution. Jordan Poole added 14 from the bench.

"A lot of pride in our group, a lot of talk over the last 48 hours about how we can get back into this series," an elated Curry said afterwards.&nbsp; "It's crazy because I still feel we can play a little bit better. But to win on the road and get home court advantage back, is big for this group.&nbsp;We've been here six times, we've got a lot of experience of staying confident and composed.&nbsp;

"I'm just thankful for everyone on our team because we brought a lot of toughness and physicality tonight. "We knew how big this game was. That five-and-a-half hour flight home got a little better after tonight."

<h2>- Green struggles -</h2>

Warriors coach Steve Kerr, meanwhile, took the bold decision to remove Draymond Green from the fray during the fourth quarter before returning him to the court for the closing passage of play. Green again struggled on offense with only two points but finished with nine rebounds, eight assists and four steals.

But the undeniable man of the hour was once again Curry, a model of clear-headed composure as bedlam raged around Boston’s raucous arena.

"Just stunning," was how Kerr described Curry's performance. "The physicality out there is, you know, pretty dramatic. I mean, Boston's got obviously, best defense in the league.

"Huge and powerful at every position, and for Steph to that kind of pressure all game long and still be able to defend at the other end when they are coming at him shows you, I think, this is the strongest physically he's ever been in his career, and it's allowing him to do what he's doing."

Boston coach Ime Udoka was left pondering what might have been. The Celtics must now win at least one more game in San Francisco -- where they won game one -- to win a record 18th NBA crown.

"Had our opportunities tonight, especially when we did have a five-, six-point lead," Udoka said. "It felt like we didn't have our best possessions, and kind of let them back in the game, whether it was turnovers or poor offense.

"It could have been an easier road, obviously, if you get the win tonight. But it is what it is. We're 2-2 now. We know we can do it. We've done it before. Keep your head up and let's go get one on the road."

A closely-fought contest saw neither side lead by more than seven points until Golden State's decisive late burst in the final minutes secured a 10-point victory. Boston had led by four points at 94-90 with just under five minutes remaining before a Wiggins layup and a Thompson three-pointer put Golden State up 95-94. Curry then extended the lead with a layup to make it 97-94 before driving in the dagger with a three-pointer to leave the Warriors 100-94 ahead.

Al Horford cut the deficit for Boston with a corner three, but Kevon Looney’s layup restored the Warriors' five-point cushion.

Curry then closed out the game, cleverly drawing fouls from Boston to nail five points from the free throw line. Jayson Tatum led the Boston scorers with 23 points while Jaylen Brown finished with 21 points. Marcus Smart added 18 points and Derrick White chipped in with 16.

Stephen Curry produced a dazzling 43-point display as the Golden State Warriors battled past the Boston Celtics 107-97 to level the NBA Finals series at 2-2 on Friday.

Stephen Curry produced a dazzling 43-point display as the Golden State Warriors battled past the Boston Celtics 107-97 to level the NBA Finals series at 2-2 on Friday. With the Warriors needing a victory at Boston's TD Garden to avoid going down 3-1 in the best-of-seven series, Curry delivered one of the best performances of his glittering career to reignite Golden State's hopes of a seventh championship. Curry had entered game four with concerns swirling over his health after suffering a knock to his foot in the Warriors' game three defeat on Wednesday. But the 34-year-old two-time NBA Most Valuable Player emphatically laid to rest any doubts about his fitness as he single-handedly hauled Golden State back into the finals with game five back in San Francisco on Monday. Curry finished with 43 points, 10 rebounds and four assists on a night when Golden State again struggled to find their offensive rhythm for long periods against a powerful Boston line-up. Klay Thompson added 18 points for the Warriors while Andrew Wiggins produced 17 points and 16 rebounds in a crucial contribution. Jordan Poole added 14 from the bench. "A lot of pride in our group, a lot of talk over the last 48 hours about how we can get back into this series," an elated Curry said afterwards. "It's crazy because I still feel we can play a little bit better. But to win on the road and get home court advantage back, is big for this group. We've been here six times, we've got a lot of experience of staying confident and composed. "I'm just thankful for everyone on our team because we brought a lot of toughness and physicality tonight. "We knew how big this game was. That five-and-a-half hour flight home got a little better after tonight." - Green struggles - Warriors coach Steve Kerr, meanwhile, took the bold decision to remove Draymond Green from the fray during the fourth quarter before returning him to the court for the closing passage of play. Green again struggled on offense with only two points but finished with nine rebounds, eight assists and four steals. But the undeniable man of the hour was once again Curry, a model of clear-headed composure as bedlam raged around Boston’s raucous arena. "Just stunning," was how Kerr described Curry's performance. "The physicality out there is, you know, pretty dramatic. I mean, Boston's got obviously, best defense in the league. "Huge and powerful at every position, and for Steph to that kind of pressure all game long and still be able to defend at the other end when they are coming at him shows you, I think, this is the strongest physically he's ever been in his career, and it's allowing him to do what he's doing." Boston coach Ime Udoka was left pondering what might have been. The Celtics must now win at least one more game in San Francisco -- where they won game one -- to win a record 18th NBA crown. "Had our opportunities tonight, especially when we did have a five-, six-point lead," Udoka said. "It felt like we didn't have our best possessions, and kind of let them back in the game, whether it was turnovers or poor offense. "It could have been an easier road, obviously, if you get the win tonight. But it is what it is. We're 2-2 now. We know we can do it. We've done it before. Keep your head up and let's go get one on the road." A closely-fought contest saw neither side lead by more than seven points until Golden State's decisive late burst in the final minutes secured a 10-point victory. Boston had led by four points at 94-90 with just under five minutes remaining before a Wiggins layup and a Thompson three-pointer put Golden State up 95-94. Curry then extended the lead with a layup to make it 97-94 before driving in the dagger with a three-pointer to leave the Warriors 100-94 ahead. Al Horford cut the deficit for Boston with a corner three, but Kevon Looney’s layup restored the Warriors' five-point cushion. Curry then closed out the game, cleverly drawing fouls from Boston to nail five points from the free throw line. Jayson Tatum led the Boston scorers with 23 points while Jaylen Brown finished with 21 points. Marcus Smart added 18 points and Derrick White chipped in with 16.

Stephen Curry's dazzling display propels Golden State Warriors to win vs Boston Celtics, level NBA Finals

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul and NFL duo Larry Fitzgerald and Kelvin Beachum have invested in the Rajasthan Royals, the Indian Premier League franchise said on Sunday, underlining IPL`s growing global appeal.

The popular Twenty20 league, which counts Bollywood actors and industrialists among franchise owners and attracts the who`s who of cricket, has grown into a 10-team affair this season with Gujarat and Ahmedabad paying a combined $1.7 billion to come on board.

The three Americans will be minority investors in 2008 champions Rajasthan, the franchise said in a statement without sharing details of their investment.

"We are extremely pleased to have Chris, Larry and Kelvin join us as investors who have seen the vision of the Royals as a truly global brand," said Rajasthan`s lead owner Manoj Badale.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mumbai-indians-defeat-rajasthan-royals-by-five-wickets-to-register-first-win-of-ipl-2022-475302">Mumbai Indians defeat Rajasthan Royals by five wickets to register first win of IPL 2022</a>

The United States will co-host the 2024 Twenty20 World Cup, although cricket has not become popular there.

"I am excited to have become one of the first US athletes to see the value and scope for growth in the IPL," said NBA star Paul, 36.

"With a variety of components, including stadium experience and fan engagement still left to fulfil their course, I see myself contributing world-class experience through this strategic investment."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-do-not-interfere-csk-ceo-reveals-who-took-the-call-to-hand-over-captaincy-back-to-ms-dhoni-475359">'We do not interfere': CSK CEO reveals who took the decision to hand over captaincy back to MS Dhoni</a>

The two-time Olympic gold medallist also has a stake in the minor league baseball team Winston-Salem Dash.

Rajasthan owners acquired a majority stake in the Caribbean Premier League team Barbados Tridents last year.

"I am keenly aware of the popularity of cricket internationally and am thrilled to join the Rajasthan Royals franchise as an investor," Arizona Cardinals` offensive tackle Beachum said.

"I respect the global reach of the IPL and am committed to supporting the Royals."

Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul and NFL duo Larry Fitzgerald and Kelvin Beachum have invested in the Rajasthan Royals, the Indian Premier League franchise said on Sunday, underlining IPL`s growing global appeal.

Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul and NFL duo Larry Fitzgerald and Kelvin Beachum have invested in the Rajasthan Royals, the Indian Premier League franchise said on Sunday, underlining IPL`s growing global appeal. The popular Twenty20 league, which counts Bollywood actors and industrialists among franchise owners and attracts the who`s who of cricket, has grown into a 10-team affair this season with Gujarat and Ahmedabad paying a combined $1.7 billion to come on board. The three Americans will be minority investors in 2008 champions Rajasthan, the franchise said in a statement without sharing details of their investment. "We are extremely pleased to have Chris, Larry and Kelvin join us as investors who have seen the vision of the Royals as a truly global brand," said Rajasthan`s lead owner Manoj Badale. Also Read: Mumbai Indians defeat Rajasthan Royals by five wickets to register first win of IPL 2022 The United States will co-host the 2024 Twenty20 World Cup, although cricket has not become popular there. "I am excited to have become one of the first US athletes to see the value and scope for growth in the IPL," said NBA star Paul, 36. "With a variety of components, including stadium experience and fan engagement still left to fulfil their course, I see myself contributing world-class experience through this strategic investment." Also Read: 'We do not interfere': CSK CEO reveals who took the decision to hand over captaincy back to MS Dhoni The two-time Olympic gold medallist also has a stake in the minor league baseball team Winston-Salem Dash. Rajasthan owners acquired a majority stake in the Caribbean Premier League team Barbados Tridents last year. "I am keenly aware of the popularity of cricket internationally and am thrilled to join the Rajasthan Royals franchise as an investor," Arizona Cardinals` offensive tackle Beachum said. "I respect the global reach of the IPL and am committed to supporting the Royals."

NFL duo Larry Fitzgerald, Kelvin Beachum and NBA star Chris Paul invest in IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals

Ranveer Singh dream has finally come true! Bollywood actor recently took part in the star-studded NBA All-Star Celebrity Game 2022 that featured some big names including musicians and basketball players.

Ranveer Singh dream has finally come true! Bollywood actor recently took part in the star-studded NBA All-Star Celebrity Game 2022 that featured some big names including musicians and basketball players. EXCLUSIVE Interview: Neha Dhupia on her cop role in 'A Thursday': For me Catherine Alvarez is perfect The 'Padmavat' actor who is a big fan of basketball was joined by several other celebrities like Machine Gun Kelly, Matt James, Jimmie Allen and more. Ranveer has shared several snaps from the event. Taking to Instagram, Ranveer took to his Instagram handle and posted a story that reads, "I just had the most incredible experience at the all-star game. But the highlight by far was the love and energy that my fans gave me at the game." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) × He continued, "I'm deeply touched and overwhelmed... Literally brought me to tears by the end of it. I feel the grace of god through you all. Not sure what i've done to deserve this kind of love but i am filled with just pure gratitude. Thank you all from my deepest embers of my heart." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) × The US's National Basketball Association had appointed Ranveer as the NBA Brand Ambassador for India in September last year. Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar are married! Check pics inside Earlier, he shared some pictures of himself from the practice session,“Ball is life 🏀🙌🏾 @nba @cavs @nbaindia @nbastyle_in #NBAAllStar #Nba75 #RanveerXNBAAllStar,” he captioned the pictures. Later, she also shared a photo with player Elhadji Tacko Fall. Along with the photo, he wrote, “Got some pre-match pro-tips from none other than my man mister Tacko Fall himself.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) × Meanwhile, on the work front, Ranveer will also be seen in 'Jayeshbhai Jordaar', Shankar's remake of his blockbuster 'Anniyan' and Rohit Shetty's 'Cirkus'.

In pics: Ranveer Singh plays with all his energy at NBA all-star celebrity game

From Cristiano Ronaldo to Virat Kohli: Top 5 sporting stars with STAGGERING number of Instagram followers

A sculpture of NBA great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna "Gigi" Bryant was brought on Wednesday to the helicopter crash site where they perished alongside seven others on a hillside near Los Angeles two years ago. 
The 160-pound (73-kg) bronze statue depicts the pair wearing basketball uniforms and sharing a loving glance as Gigi holds Kobe`s hand as it rests on her shoulder.

Sculptor Dan Medina was on hand to greet fans who made the 1.3-mile (2.1-km) hike to pay their respects to the sports legend. "This is all on my own, no one asked me to do it," said Medina. "On this day, the second anniversary of the accident, I decided to bring it up from sunrise to sunset and create a bit of a healing process for fans. 
"Today was special because I witnessed a lot of that. People would come up and they would leave with some sort of satisfaction."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-ronaldo-ibrahimovics-bicycle-kick-to-messis-dribbling-act-relive-some-unforgettable-goals-watch-448442">From Ronaldo, Ibrahimovic's bicycle kick to Messi's dribbling act: Relive some UNFORGETTABLE GOALS - Watch</a>

Engraved on the statue`s steel pedestal are the names of all nine victims of the early morning crash in foggy weather on Jan. 26, 2020. It also includes an inscription of Bryant`s famous quote: "Heroes come and go, but legends are forever." A five-time NBA champion in his 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant`s death at age 41 shocked the world of professional sports and sent his legions of fans into mourning.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-organising-committee-reports-12-covid-19-cases-among-arrivals-448403">Beijing Olympics organising committee reports 12 COVID-19 cases among arrivals</a>

Gigi was 13 at the time of the crash, which occurred as they were headed to a youth basketball tournament. 
Nicole Szuch-Dinets of Woodland Hills was one of the dozens of fans who made the trip to pay their respects. 
"I remember when this happened. We live close and we could hear the helicopter," she said. "And then it popped up on my phone and we didn`t believe it. So I wanted to come out of respect and I thought this statue is beautiful." 
Tributes to Bryant by his friends, fans and former teammates poured out on social media on Wednesday. "I know many of you are out there and you miss him and still wish to see his brilliance on the court, and what he was doing as a dad," Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar said of Bryant, who was the father of four girls and husband to Vanessa.

"It was wonderful the way he was coaching girls and getting them into the game. I hope all of you out there remember him the way you should and give your prayers to his wife and family."

A sculpture of NBA great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna "Gigi" Bryant was brought on Wednesday to the helicopter crash site where they perished alongside seven others on a hillside near Los Angeles two years ago.

A sculpture of NBA great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna "Gigi" Bryant was brought on Wednesday to the helicopter crash site where they perished alongside seven others on a hillside near Los Angeles two years ago. The 160-pound (73-kg) bronze statue depicts the pair wearing basketball uniforms and sharing a loving glance as Gigi holds Kobe`s hand as it rests on her shoulder. Sculptor Dan Medina was on hand to greet fans who made the 1.3-mile (2.1-km) hike to pay their respects to the sports legend. "This is all on my own, no one asked me to do it," said Medina. "On this day, the second anniversary of the accident, I decided to bring it up from sunrise to sunset and create a bit of a healing process for fans. "Today was special because I witnessed a lot of that. People would come up and they would leave with some sort of satisfaction." ALSO READ | From Ronaldo, Ibrahimovic's bicycle kick to Messi's dribbling act: Relive some UNFORGETTABLE GOALS - Watch Engraved on the statue`s steel pedestal are the names of all nine victims of the early morning crash in foggy weather on Jan. 26, 2020. It also includes an inscription of Bryant`s famous quote: "Heroes come and go, but legends are forever." A five-time NBA champion in his 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant`s death at age 41 shocked the world of professional sports and sent his legions of fans into mourning. ALSO READ | Beijing Olympics organising committee reports 12 COVID-19 cases among arrivals Gigi was 13 at the time of the crash, which occurred as they were headed to a youth basketball tournament. Nicole Szuch-Dinets of Woodland Hills was one of the dozens of fans who made the trip to pay their respects. "I remember when this happened. We live close and we could hear the helicopter," she said. "And then it popped up on my phone and we didn`t believe it. So I wanted to come out of respect and I thought this statue is beautiful." Tributes to Bryant by his friends, fans and former teammates poured out on social media on Wednesday. "I know many of you are out there and you miss him and still wish to see his brilliance on the court, and what he was doing as a dad," Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar said of Bryant, who was the father of four girls and husband to Vanessa. "It was wonderful the way he was coaching girls and getting them into the game. I hope all of you out there remember him the way you should and give your prayers to his wife and family."

Heartwarming! Statue of NBA legend Kobe Bryant and daughter Gigi placed at crash site on anniversary

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