Tag Archive for: NBA

Golden State Warriors: Which Stars Are Actually Golden This Year?

/9 Comments/in , /by

Millions of American sports fans enjoy the thrills and excitement of watching the world’s highest level of professional basketball found in the NBA. In the past decades, some of the best players of all time have graced the famous courts, and these players have gone on to enjoy truly international recognition for their skills and athleticism. This article focuses on the Golden State Warriors, a team that enjoyed recent success, winning the 2022 NBA title after beating the Boston Celtics 103-90 in their final game. This was their first return to the finals since 2019, when they lost to the Toronto Raptors. Looking at the current 2023/24 season that began on 24h October, this article highlights some of their key players and looks into what a bet on the team might look like.

Betting Considerations 

For any Golden State Warriors fan, the key bet will be to see if the team can win the championship again. At present, they are the 6th favorite team with odds of +1400 to win and +700 to make the finals. However, as any NBA fan knows, the run-up to the final and the last games can be on a knife edge, with surprises often in store. They had what might be seen as a rocky season last year, but with management and player changes, they’re feeling confident that’s all well behind them. 

If you’re not convinced by the changes just yet and want to see how the new roster plays out before making any bets, then you could test your luck at an online casino while waiting for the right odds. Many NBA fans find that playing video poker at Jackpotcitycasino.com can replicate the thrills of gambling without needing to study team and player form. The many variants, such as All Aces Poker and Joker Poker, are proving exceptionally popular. However, NBA fans may also be drawn to slot games such as Basketball Star on Fire, which recreates the thrills of an all-star game. 

Golden Stars to Watch Out For

Stephen Curry: At the time of writing, the Golden State Warriors had just ended a 2-week losing streak, beating the Houston Rockets 121-116. Point guard Steph Curry was instrumental in the win and scored 32 points with five rebounds. As expected, he will be a player to keep an eye on all season long as he is a vital part of the team, consistently delivering when needed and apparently recovered from the injury sustained last season.

Klay Thompson: Another key player who is working to get back to form. While his points per game currently stand at 15.0 (almost half that of Curry), this is to be expected from a shooting guard, especially when Curry has carried his side for the last ten years. 

Andrew Wiggins: An honorable mention should also go to small forward Andrew Wiggins. While his recent form has not been as good as his recognized potential, perhaps due to his concern over his father’s ongoing health problems, he is undoubtedly one of the biggest stars of the NBA. Put simply, it is only a question of time before he returns to his absolute best.

To Sum Up

Golden State Warriors will look to continue the success of the 2022 season but have currently yet to find their top level. Steph Curry can be relied upon, and Andrew Wiggins will undoubtedly get back to his best this season. The team may not be favorites for the championship, but it is still a credible bet to gamble on them making the playoffs. 

Dame To Bucks: A Potential Championship Defining Trade?

/0 Comments/in , /by

The seven time all-star Damian Lillard said goodbye to the Portland fans and confirmed his arrival in Milwaukee, a team that in a few hours became the main candidate for winning the championship, with betting in every major sportsbook favoring the Bucks as the top contenders.

 

Giannis had publicly declared last month that he’d ditch the Bucks if they failed to remain competitive. Clearly, they listened. The addition of Lillard changes the playing field and the entire NBA knows it.

 

Everyone is enthusiastic — expect maybe Jimmy Butler and the rest of the Miami Heat organization. 

 

Jimmy’s already making videos inviting the NBA to check the legality of the move. In a video he shared on his Instagram account, Jimmy said “Hey, NBA, you might want to look into the Bucks for tampering (premature talks with free agents). You didn’t hear it from me; I heard it from someone else.” 

 

But, none of that matters because the deal is done.

 

Full Trade Details: How it Happened?

What began as a dramatic rumor yesterday has now become a sealed deal overnight, sending shockwaves across the USA. 

 

Damian Lillard, the biggest icon in Portland since the days of Bill Walton, has found a new home and will join the star-studded roster of Milwaukee, which already boasts the likes of Giannis Antetokounmpo. It’s the deal of the summer.

 

According to the latest reports, Lillard was initially considering signing with Miami but ultimately chose the 2021 champions. 

 

This trade involves not only Portland and Milwaukee but also Phoenix. 

 

In return, the Blazers will receive Jrue Holiday, Deandre Ayton, Tomani Kamara, the Bucks’ 2029 first-round pick, and the right to swap picks with Milwaukee in 2028 and 2030. 

 

The Suns will receive Yusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nasir Little, and Keon Johnson as part of the deal (the Suns are looking pretty good too).

 

Lillard’s devoted his entire career to the Portland Trailblazers and surely, there should be nothing but love from Portland to Dame and vice versa. Lillard has already reestablished his love for Portland even after the trade via a tweet “I want to ignore all the regular fans, and tell Portland and the Blazers fans that I love them. Really. I will treat them in the most appropriate way possible. Waiting for the next chapter.”

 

What does Lillard bring to the table?

Short answer: a bucketload of attacking firepower. 

 

“Lillard can draw defenders away from Giannis, while Giannis can create space for Lillard,” enthused Eric Niem of The Athletic. “When you add Khris Middleton, Milwaukee arguably boasts the best trio in the league.” It’s not just Niem’s opinion; nearly all commentators, even online betting sites like Betway and agencies in Vegas, share the sentiment.

 

“Milwaukee is gambling that the offensive upgrade with Lillard will outweigh the defensive drop-off,” remarked one commentator. “It’s shocking the Bucks were able to pull this off.,” tweeted Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer. 

“The partnership between Giannis and ‘Dame’ will be unstoppable.” Not only current players but also former legends are excited. Magic Johnson wrote, “NBA fans, can you envision a pick-and-roll between Lillard and Giannis? They will be unstoppable.”

 

Reason to be skeptical?

ESPN, however, approached the trade with caution and skepticism, awarding it only a +B grade. “Milwaukee didn’t seem like a team that would land Lillard, but this is their strategy to convince Giannis that they can win a championship and keep him beyond 2024/25. It’s a substantial investment—giving up first-round picks for seven years,” stated their report. “Milwaukee is gambling on offense prevailing over defense.”

Boston Celtics’ Most Famous Player: Who Is He?

/3 Comments/in , /by

Just as defining the greatest player in NBA history is a challenge with answers ranging from Michael Jordan to LeBron James to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, so too is defining who is the most famous player in a franchise’s history. Would it be fair to compare a player from the 1950s to one of the 1990s to a player of today? 

 

With limited media coverage during the early years of the league to the growth of the game on television to today’s instant gratification on social media, knowledge and awareness of a player impacts their level of fame and popularity. 

 

Who Deserves A Shot In The Hall Of Fame?

When it comes to the Boston Celtics, winners of 17 NBA Championships, as well as 37 players in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and 23 jersey numbers hanging in the rafters of TD Garden, the team is arguably one of the most successful sports franchises in all of sport. These accomplishments make pinpointing who the Celtics’ most famous player is a challenge.

 

As with the classic G.O.A.T argument, maybe the most famous argument should be classified by era. With a limited number of televised games (13 in 1953, 20 in 1954), no internet, and regional print media, comparing it to the seemingly never-ending reach that today’s players have certainly put one group at a distinct disadvantage. 

 

If you regularly search for Boston Celtics sports betting promo codes, you should be familiar with the names below.

The Champ

Eleven NBA Championships, five MVPs, twelve All-Star Game appearances, and five rebounding titles. One would think with all of those accolades that Bill Russell would be a shoo-in for the most famous member of the Boston Celtics franchise. 

 

Standing at just 6’9”, which was tall for his era, Russell proved that the game could be won on the defensive end of the court, averaging just 15 points a game. A phenomenal athlete, Russell was known for his ability to run the court and finish the transition bucket.  However, it would be his 22.5 rebounds and an estimated 6-8 blocks per night (blocks were not an official stat when Russell played) that helped the Celtics become one of the two winningest franchises in the NBA. 

 

A member of all four NBA Anniversary Teams, the admiration, and respect for Russell would be felt league-wide when it was decided that the NBA Finals MVP would be named in his honor. Russell was one of the league’s first African-American superstars and the first to win an NBA Championship as a coach. Following his passing in 2022, the NBA would retire his #6 jersey leaguewide, the only player to hold such an honor. 

 

Unfortunately for Russell he played and lived in an era in which he had to endure a lot of racial abuse and controversy with fans and even the media, causing him to become known for being selfish and uncooperative which hurt his public status. 

The Hick From French Lick

Though half of the credit must be given to Earvin “Magic” Johnson (which Celtics fans will probably hate to admit), Larry Bird helped to impact the success of the Boston franchise, but more importantly, the league itself. 

 

He wasn’t the highest of flyers by any means and definitely not the quickest on the court and certainly not the most marketable, but Bird endeared himself to the blue-collar Boston faithful through his grit, determination, and desire for nothing less than a championship. Despite his lack of athleticism, Bird would put on a performance each night, providing the team with whatever it needed. Considering he shared the lineup with three other Hall of Fame teammates, Bird’s contributions were over and above everyone else.

 

A three-time champion, three-peat MVP, twelve-time All-Star, and Rookie of the Year, Bird was the founding member of the 50/40/90 club, an accomplishment he achieved twice in a row. 

 

Although his offensive arsenal was mostly ground-bound, Bird wowed fans with his shooting, his creative passing, and his ability to back up his infamous trash-talking. 

 

The Verdict

 

Whereas one made his presence known on the defensive end, the other countered offensively. Yet both endeared themselves to the city of Boston and Celtics fans around the world with their dedication to winning. 

 

One is arguably the greatest winner in team sports, while the other is credited with helping to keep the league alive. As for the answer to the question of who is more famous, the answer is in the eye of the beholder. 

How To Become A Pro Basketball Player

/1 Comment/in , /by

Did you know that basketball dates all the way back to the late 19th century? It’s true; baseball may have a slightly more storied history, but basketball is one of the oldest modern sports being played in the USA (and elsewhere, of course) right now. It was created by a man called James Naismith, who needed to come up with an exciting game for his students to play, since physical exercise was mandated. He conceptualised a game that could be played either indoors or outdoors, and thus, basketball was born.

 

If you’ve ever seen basketball players at work and thought “I could do that”, then hey, who knows – you might be right! However, becoming a professional basketball player takes a lot of work and dedication. It’s something that people usually begin to undertake from an early age, since basketball players tend to physically peak around their late 20s. Still, it’s never too late to at least enter into the sport on some professional level, so let’s take a look at what you need to become a pro basketballer!

 

Build a base for yourself

 

If you’re serious about training as a pro basketball player, then one of the things you’re going to need is a permanent base of operations. This is where you can store gym equipment, train if you’re not able to do so outdoors (or in your usual gym) and brush up on your basketball knowledge. Incorporating lifting straps or wrist wraps for powerlifting into your training regimen can significantly enhance your strength training sessions, providing the support necessary for lifting heavier weights and improving your overall performance on the court. If you’re just starting out in the world of home ownership, you can use mortgage loans to find your dream home and start planning out your basketball career. Don’t forget to allocate space for some fitness equipment!

 

Train hard

 

What differentiates professional basketball players from amateurs? There’s a certain degree of innate talent involved, but for the most part, an intense training regimen is what separates the wheat from the chaff, so to speak. A great training routine for basketball involves cardio, strength, and resistance; basketball demands a lot from your body, so it’s important to make sure all of your muscles are ready to enter the fray, so to speak. Make sure that your training regimen has been calculated alongside a fitness professional so that it’s as effective as possible.

 

Learn all you can about the sport

 

Naturally, you’re not going to get very far as a professional basketball player if you don’t try to learn everything you possibly can about the sport. That doesn’t just mean physically preparing for your career; it also means brushing up on your history, learning about all of the arcane rules and regulations you might come up against, and generally researching basketball to as much of an extent as possible. Don’t think of this step as boring; instead, take it as a learning opportunity that will give you an edge.

 

Join an amateur team

 

You’re not going to get noticed by pro scouts if you don’t join an amateur team and start playing some basketball. There are amateur teams and leagues all over the world, so you should be able to find one that matches your ambitions. Just be aware that it’ll likely be easier to enter into an amateur team with a real chance of scouting pros if you’re younger; unfortunately, basketball, like most sports, tends to favor those who are in their late teens or early 20s when it comes to scouting out professionals.

 

Talk to pro basketball players

 

If you get the chance, it’s a good idea to talk to as many pro basketball players as you can. This will give you an idea of what the reality of a career in basketball is like; you may have some starry-eyed dreams, which is understandable, but it’s important to know what it’s really like being out there on the court. You could also listen to some great basketball podcasts that dissect the NBA (which is the world’s biggest basketball league) and talk about the ins and outs of the sport itself.

 

Go to games

 

There’s no better way to learn what it’s like to be a professional basketball player than to watch them at work, so why not go along to a few NBA games if you can? Securing tickets to these events can sometimes be difficult thanks to massive demand, but if you can get hold of some, it’s a great learning opportunity. Watch how the players move and how they interact with their space. See what kind of techniques they’re using and try to figure out how you can incorporate that into your own game.

 

Create a portfolio

 

You might not think that making an online portfolio is that important as a basketball player, but you’d be mistaken. If you can upload some videos showing some of your major highlights during games, then you’ve got a better chance of being spotted by online talent scouts. Ask someone you know to film you while you play (assuming that the league you’re playing in allows this, of course), or talk to your league’s filming crew about using some of their footage for your portfolio.

 

Be serious about your goals

 

You won’t make it as a professional if you aren’t completely dedicated to the sport and everything that goes with it. All professional basketball players have one thing in common: they’re hungry, and they need to succeed. If you don’t have that drive and that hunger, then you may find yourself overtaken by those who do. It’s important to take your training, your play, and your post-match analysis seriously so that you can keep improving as a professional hopeful. 

 

Tips for Betting on the NBA

/2 Comments/in , , /by

The NBA is one of the most popular sports in the world to bet on. With the playoffs rapidly approaching, the action has never been hotter. The key is to know the various NBA betting odds and how to make the most of them.

As it turns out, there are a few helpful tips that can help you dominate the bet slip. Follow these NBA betting tips and you can put yourself in the best position to win as big as the players on the court.

https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2016/07/27/01/36/basketball-1544370_960_720.jpg

Manage your bankroll

One of the most important things to do when betting, no matter what sport, is to manage your bankroll. Without that knowledge, you are going to find yourself burning through your bankroll quickly and often. That only leads to big losses rather than even bigger winnings.

Wherever you start, limit yourself to betting a certain percentage of your bankroll. This way, if you hit a cold streak, you won’t immediately be staring down a zero balance. The goal is to win but you also want to be able to prolong having to make deposits on a regular basis.

Use the schedule to your advantage

The goal should be to keep it simple and one of the simplest things you can do is keep an eye on the schedule. In the NBA, especially, teams tend to not do as well when they are on the second half of a back-to-back.

Watch for teams in a similar situation. Maybe a team is playing their third game in four nights. Maybe they played in an overtime game last time out. Use the schedule to help narrow down your picks. It’s not a guarantee to work but it may give you an advantage that you would have otherwise lacked. The NBA is one of those sports where teams apply load management frequently, so keep an eye on games where stars may not be suiting up.

Live betting is your friend

With the implementation of live betting, there is another avenue in which players can win. When it comes to sports like the NBA, sometimes it can be difficult to make a pick before the game starts. So, why not wait to see what things look like before making a wager?

With live betting, you can see how the action unfolds before acting. Maybe you aren’t really into a particular favorite and want to see if they start well. If they don’t, taking the underdog could lead to a nice score.

Sometimes things don’t feel right and the way a game unfolds only solidifies that. If you aren’t totally sure about a game but still want to wager, wait for the game to begin and see how things progress. Live betting is an advantage to those who regularly watch the games.

Track your bets

Don’t just bet on a whim. Track your bets to see how you’ve been doing, where your strengths are, and what patterns may be emerging. For all you know, there may be patterns that can help you to narrow your focus and create regular winners.

Maybe you struggle with home favorites who are favored by more than 10 points. Tracking your bets allows you to see the history of these specific situations and adjust accordingly. Betting is a lot of luck but it is a lot of studying, too. Use the information being presented to you to your fullest advantage. It will increase the odds of you making a winning bet, especially over a longer period of time. Don’t ignore the data because it can be your friend.

How to Bet on Basketball: 8 Profitable NBA Tips for 2023 Season

/5 Comments/in , , /by

The NBA season might be changing for the players and coaches, but it is also for the bettors. No wonder we will see 30 teams competing against each other. Furthermore, there are 82 exciting games to follow. On top of that, the post-season lasts for two months. Therefore predicting the outcome isn’t that simple. When the new season approaches, it is time to perfect your betting strategy. After assessing the best UK betting sites for basketball, it is time to consider the profitable NBA tips for the 2023 season.

Do it early

Gaining advantage is best done when you bet as early as possible. The NBA is a big market, so expect the latest updates soon. For example, you will instantly hear about any player’s injury. In addition, you can profit from any mistakes released by the sportsbooks. The bookmakers will adjust the lines according to the updates. With this, the lines will be more accurate at the end of the day. If you’re on the East Coast, you might want to start betting at 8 am.

As you get more experience, you will know how to read the market and when to act. However, betting early isn’t always applicable. In some cases betting later would be more beneficial.

Check the reports

The injury reports are of enormous importance for betting. Don’t forget that one player can have a significant impact on the basketball game. Unlike football, where the team consists of five players, the basketball team, composed of five players, will experience substantial changes if anything happens to one person. This is where you should take early betting carefully. Injury news can come through the days, changing the whole direction of the game. If you bet early, stay updated with the latest news to act quickly.

Likewise, don’t forget that some sportsbooks might react slowly to such news. So you would want to say that to your advantage. Another thing to have in mind is the coaches. Mind their press conferences where they can reveal important details.

Possessions

The number of possessions in a match is significant for crafting your betting strategy. Account for the pace as a factor that determines the possessions in a game. Also, be sure to assess how teams with different paces play. The offense can sometimes slow down the game, so you must also account for this. 

Live betting

Live betting is prevalent among sports enthusiasts as it allows you to place bets after the beginning of the game. This will enable you to add excitement to the game while considering all the direct factors that impact the game. The odds change during the game so the bettors can profit from the volatility. When the game starts, we have plenty of information available. This info isn’t available before the match begins. Therefore sportsbooks will use their advanced algorithms to change the lines according to these updates. 

For effective live betting, there are a few rules to follow. First, you should wager during breaks or commercials. Keep track of the live updates about any occurring injuries. As we mentioned before, this is an essential factor to consider. 

Final thoughts

Betting on basketball doesn’t have to be challenging even if you are a newbie. Consider the tips we share for the upcoming season. As with any sport, it is essential to choose the right sportsbook. Shopping around to find the best lines is highly recommended. Different sites provide different betting spreads. 

 

Tim Duncan: An Unparalleled Legacy of Success

/0 Comments/in , /by

On April 19th, 2021, one of the greatest basketball players of all time retired from the game. Tim Duncan was popularly known as “The Big Fundamental” for his consistent and reliable play on offense and defense. He was a loyal member of the San Antonio Spurs for 19 seasons. 13-time NBA All-Star, 5-time NBA Champion, 2-time NBA MVP… these are just some accolades that describe the unparalleled legacy of success that Tim Duncan left behind.

The Early Years 

Tim Duncan was born in Christiansted, St. Croix, on April 25th, 1976. Even at an early age, it was clear that he had a special talent for basketball. As a high school player in St. Croix, he was named U.S. Virgin Islands Player of the Year three times and led his high school team to two consecutive undefeated seasons. He went on to attend Wake Forest University, where he won ACC Player of the Year twice and was named Naismith College Basketball Player of the Year during his senior year. 

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Tim Duncan was an incredibly consistent player throughout his career and is considered one of the best power forwards ever to play in the NBA. He averaged 19 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists per game while shooting 50% from the field, an incredible achievement that gave him longevity in professional basketball. Duncan also won two MVP awards, made 15 All-Star appearances, and was named to 14 All-NBA teams. His numbers alone are enough to secure him a spot amongst the greatest players in the history of the NBA. 

A Dominant Presence on Both Offense & Defense

Tim Duncan is special because he was an effective presence in any given situation on the court. His unrivaled basketball IQ meant he could always be counted on to make the right decision with the ball in his hands. His court vision was remarkable; whether finding a cutting teammate or locating an open shooter in the corner, you could always count on him to make the right pass. This made him a walking triple-double threat no matter who his teammates were at any given time during his career.

 

There may never have been a better big-man defender on defense than Tim Duncan. His long arms and quick feet allowed him to guard anyone against point guards to power forwards with equal effectiveness. He had a knack for anticipating where opposing players were going with their moves and always seemed to be one step ahead of them at all times. His defensive presence was so strong that opposing teams often had to adjust their entire offensive schemes to beat him.

A Leader On & Off The Court

Tim Duncan’s leadership off the court has significantly impacted the odds on the San Antonio Spurs. He was always willing to mentor younger Spurs players both in practice and games. He always ensured they understood how important it is for everyone on the team to work together towards one goal. His teammates reveal that he would also frequently check up on them off the court by sending them motivational texts or inviting them over for dinner when they needed moral support about something outside of basketball.

 

In addition to being an incredible leader on and off the court, Tim Duncan also greatly impacted his community outside of basketball. He donated millions of dollars to local charities and founded several organizations dedicated to providing aid for those in need. One such initiative is Project 21, which provides educational opportunities for youth in underserved communities across San Antonio. 

 

His commitment to making San Antonio a better place extended far beyond sports, and he will always be remembered fondly by members of his community. 

Conclusion

Tim Duncan’s legacy will live forever in basketball lore, not just as one of the best players ever but also as one of its most respected ambassadors. His commitment to excellence both on and off the court set an example for generations after him and will likely never be matched again. So raise your glass or Lone Star beer (if you’re a true Spurs fan) to “The Big Fundamental” himself: Tim Duncan! A true legend among men!

Which NBA Players Have Been Spotted Gambling?

/1 Comment/in , , /by

Professional athletes have always had a hard time gambling. Not only is it frowned upon by people, but sports authorities also have stringent laws to be followed. As far as basketball players go, they’re allowed to bet on sports and online casino games. They are obviously restricted from wagering on games they’re a part of, but betting on other sports is fair and legal. They can also join the best online casino 2023 to wager on classic casino titles like blackjack and poker. 

Let’s take a look at gambling within the NBA and list down some of the most famous players that enjoy betting on sports and casino games. 

Background of NBA and Gambling 

Being one of the major sports in the USA, basketball has historically been a favorite for gamblers. It is so popular, in fact, that many of the best online casinos in New Zealand also offer chances to wager on NBA events. The experts at casinotop.co.nz list the reviews of the top online platforms to select the one you like. Head to the sports betting section and you’ll see NBA games listed for you to wager on.

Betting on basketball games is popular for many reasons. The matches are fast-paced and highly competitive. The players are celebrities that people root for. And each game can turn around thanks to a single player at times. For an NBA player who enjoys gambling, part of the charm is using their own knowledge of the game to win money. 

List of NBA Players Spotted Gambling 

Sports betting isn’t just for the fans. Many top online casinos in New Zealand and beyond also welcome professional players. As for gambling in physical casinos, the following are some of the most popular names in the sport. 

Michael Jordan

Not only is he the most famous basketball player of all time, but Michael Jordan is also among the greatest gamblers on this list. He has never had any addiction to betting but rather enjoyed the competitive nature of games like poker. Jordan is known to visit Atlantic City casinos quite often. He wagers so much that he’s alleged to have lost north of $100 million on a golf game. 

Charles Barkley

Charles is an avid gambler in Vegas casinos and has lost a whole lot of cash because of his favourite pastime. But even with around $15 million dollars lost, his passion for gambling hasn’t died. Another scandal Charles found himself in was when he didn’t pay a debt of some $400,000. He also allegedly lost $2.5 million in a single blackjack game. Still, the player became more careful about his gambling habits after the lawsuit, though, and still loves the activity. 

Antoine Walker

Antoine Walker is a good example of why you should gamble in moderation. Walker loved betting and would spend whole nights at casinos. His recklessness led to him owing millions of dollars to casinos by 2009. It ended with his career getting ended and his reputation going downhill. 

Allen Iverson

Another example of how gambling addiction gets the best of you is Allen Iverson. He was a rising star among basketball players of his time. However, his addiction to poker and blackjack led to significant financial loss. It got to a point where he had to live hand to mouth and lost his career. 

Charles Oakley

Charles Oakley is among the most tenacious basketball players who love casino gambling. He enjoys winning and hates to lose. His competitive side came through once when he pulled all his chips back from the table when about to lose. As a result, the player was banned from the casino. He also got into a fight with someone who owed him over $50 thousand. This happened during a preseason NBA game, so the NBA fined him for $10 thousand for this. 

JR Smith

Smith’s passion for gambling became evident when a suitcase filled with thousands of dollars was discovered by thieves. When asked by the authorities why he had so much cash, he told them it was his gambling money. Strange as that may sound, it shows just how much this basketball player loves to gamble. Like some of the others on this list, Smith has also lost a lot of money. Since he has always gambled within the regulations of the NBA, he hasn’t faced any resulting issues. 

Shaquille O’Neal

Shaq is famous not only for being a great NBA player but also for being an avid gambler. He loves casino games and stakes massive amounts of money on them sometimes. The legend once admitted to Jimmy Kimmel that his minimum bet starts from $100. He has also mentioned once betting $1 million on a dice roll which is nothing short of incredible. 

Seth Curry

Stephen Curry’s brother Seth plays for the Brooklyn Nets. Fans have seen him on multiple occasions at different Vegas and LA casinos. He finds casino games fun and has been playing them within NBA’s regulations for a long time. 

To Sum Up 

Just like normal people who love casino games, many NBA players also enjoy titles like poker, blackjack, and even slots. Betting is completely legal for a basketball player as long as it’s done within the limits set by the NBA. From the examples above it is obvious how many sport legends love to wager their money on games and sports alike. It is also easy to see how much of it can lead to the destruction of one’s career and personal life. So, if your favorite basketball player inspires you to try gambling, be sure to go slow and enjoy the activity. 

New LeBron James Record — 2nd to score 38,000 career points

/0 Comments/in , /by

The greatness of LeBron James is difficult to express with ordinary statistics. However, some numbers are too significant to ignore. On the evening of January 15, 2023, “The Chosen One” surpassed 38,000 career points. Along the way, he beat the likes of Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Karl Malone, and Shaquille O’Neal in NBA scoring. 

Ahead of him in this indicator in entire history, there was only one basketball player – Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. From the record of the eternal legend of the Milwaukee Bucks, LA Lakers, and the whole league, LeBron is now a little more than 300 points. 

How It Was

LeBron James conquered the achievement in the 2022/23 NBA regular season home game. The Philadelphia 76ers played against the Lakers at Staples Center. 

To break Abdul-Jabbar’s record, LeBron had only 11 points to chalk up before the starting whistle. Despite the excellent position of the opponent in the Atlantic Division, no one had any doubts that this figure was achievable against the Philadelphia 76ers. 

Therefore, this match aroused great interest among betting enthusiasts. By the way, betting on similar events at the bookmaker www.bodog.eu/sports/basketball/nba is open to European users.

 

It didn’t take long to get the desired result. Already towards the end of the 1st quarter, “The Chosen One” scored the most crucial goal for the record in a jump, being close to the three-point line. A two-point shot brought his team a slight lead – 20:17. However, it was impossible to maintain and develop the advantage. The match ended with a score of 113:112 in favor of the guests from Philadelphia. 

Therefore, despite the historical success and good personal statistics (35 points, 10 assists, 8 rebounds), LeBron was not satisfied with the evening. In a post-match interview, he lamented the failure to secure a win, even though the Lakers were able to put on some good basketball.

Relationship Between LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

As you know, the symbols of the past and present of the Los Angeles Lakers are not eager to communicate with each other. The last time LeBron was asked if he kept in touch with the star of previous generations, the basketball player was relatively straightforward. He stated that he had no communication or thoughts on this matter with Karim. 

Basketball fans remember the chronicle of one clash of positions between two legends in the media. During the coronavirus outbreak, Abdul-Jabbar said that LeBron should have shown more responsibility in the issue of vaccination against COVID-19. 

This opinion caused dissatisfaction with “The Chosen One.” However, this did not develop into a severe conflict: Karim apologized promptly, and the story was gradually forgotten.

Extreme differences in the players’ personalities speak in favor of the fact that no genuine rapprochement is expected. LeBron did not develop in the conditions that the stars of previous generations found. He is accustomed to the all-pervading attention of the media and communication with celebrities from other spheres. He understands well the importance of how he is represented on social networks.

The image of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is seriously different. His formation fell in the era of more brutal basketball. He was educated at the University of California, grew up during the civil rights movement, and is now a successful poet.

However, one can speak of an actual confrontation only in the context of the expected drop in the record. Despite their differences of opinion, both figures important to the NBA’s legacy show each other due respect and neutrality. Of course, whether their relationship will develop depends largely on their reaction to Abdul-Jahar to the fall of his record (if it takes place). 

When Will LeBron Break Kareem’s Record?

The official statistics of the NBA recorded that in the last match of his career, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar left the floor with a total of 38,387 points. After playing the Philadelphia 76ers on January 15, 2023, King James has accumulated 38,072 points. Simple arithmetic shows that at the time of this writing, LeBron only needs 316 points to beat Abdul-Jabbar. 

It is convenient to keep track of current changes on the ESPN counter, the indicators updated from game to game.

Basketball experts believe the record will fall even before the end of the 2022/2023 season in the NBA. Of the significant reasons that can prevent this, we can single out the absence of games due to injuries. 

What will happen if LeBron keeps up with the pace of scoring this season? Then the current performance record will be updated in early February 2023.

It is amazing how close and accurate the onset of this event is. LeBron admitted that before the start of the 22/23 season, he had to seriously think about how close he was to the milestone of 38,000 points. According to him, the pressure on him was added by the fact that most of the NBA audience at that time considered this mark unattainable even for King James. 

LeBron’s current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers ends in 2025. Will the debate about its effectiveness continue when this period expires? And if so, will the King, by the end of this period, have enough physical capabilities and motivation to fight the opinion of those experts who continue to challenge the significance of his sniper achievements? Regardless of the answers, great statistics will remain in history, which you can still increase.

 

Reasons Stephen Curry is the best offensive player in NBA history

/3 Comments/in , /by

 

LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are the three biggest names in basketball history. All three players in this discourse are basketball players who have scored more than 30,000 points. Though Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors has a long way to go before he reaches that goal, he should be regarded as a more potent offensive weapon than any other player in the NBA. And when it comes to NBA, there is a huge popularity of this amazon the online gaming fans. Are you one of them? If so, FanDuel Ohio can be interesting for you. 

 

Therefore, this article will give you reasons why Steph Curry is the greatest offensive basketball player of all time. So let’s get started! 

3 Reasons Stephen Curry is the best offensive player in NBA history

Here are three reasons why Curry is the greatest offensive player in NBA history:

Stephen Curry is the all-time greatest attacking weapon

 

In the NBA, many players have the ability to score points. Curry is unique because he has a talent that no one else in the league possesses: his three-point shots are so accurate they’re almost impossible for other players to defend against.

When Curry gets into the paint, a defense must guard him but it frequently doesn’t matter whether you have one or two guys on him. He’ll demand payment from either situation.

 

In his career, Curry has averaged more than 25 points six times and more than 30 points a game twice. He holds the record for most 3-pointers made in NBA history: he averages 24.3 per game and shoots about 43% from behind the arc.

 

He has averaged over 20 points per game in each of his 10 NBA seasons. It doesn’t take him many shots to get there, but the majority of his damage is still caused by extremely talented teams and not volume shooting.

Everyone has an issue with him

 

Stephen Curry, who is known for his long-range shots, initiated a shot called the Logo 3. The attempt proved problematic not just for defenders but also for video game developers; trying to make it work was tricky business. Curry routinely hits improbable shots, but usually, that’s because other people are hitting impossible ones.

 

Curry changed the game, but only by successfully replicating his offensive successes in real life. That strengthens his argument as the best offensive weapon.

Take Him as a Threat

 

When Stephen Curry grabs a rebound and crosses half-court, he is a danger. Defenses must place their best defenders on him for almost 94 feet. In spite of defenses focusing on stopping him, he frequently creates scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Curry is a constant threat on the open floor, and he presents unique challenges because of it. No other elite scorer moves as quickly or efficiently on the court as Curry does, and that versatility makes him extra dangerous off-ball.

 

Steph Curry is the hardest player to defend alone because defenders are frequently humiliated. He has become a dominant ball handler and humiliates opponents with his skill.

Final Words

 

Although LeBron James and Larry Bird are the only players in NBA history to score at a rate comparable with that of Curry, neither of them ever moved off the ball like he does or handled it as well.

 

Stephen Curry is a tremendously talented player, who does many things well on the offensive end of the court. His ability to shoot threes and distribute for his teammates makes him one of the greatest offensive threats in NBA history, regardless of position or era.