Latest news with #All-Defensive
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Sport
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"Michael, I love you, but I'm glad to see you go" - Scottie Pippen described getting Michael Jordan's locker in 1993 as his greatest promotion
"Michael, I love you, but I'm glad to see you go" - Scottie Pippen described getting Michael Jordan's locker in 1993 as his greatest promotion originally appeared on Basketball Network. When Michael Jordan retired in 1993, everyone saw Scottie Pippen as the Chicago Bulls' new No.1 guy. But Pippen wanted more than that. Then came the ultimate validation. Advertisement "All I know is I'm getting his locker," said Pippen to former ESPN sportswriter Melissa Isaacson during a preseason game on October 28, 1993. "It's the greatest promotion I've ever had. Michael, I love you, but I'm glad to see you go." The opportunity that Pippen had long waited for The Seattle SuperSonics drafted Pippen with the No.5 overall pick in 1987 before trading him to Chicago for Olden Polynice. Still, he didn't join the Bulls as their go-to superstar. Instead, Pip entered MJ's shadow from day one. Despite earning three All-Star selections, three All-Defensive First Team nods and two All-NBA team selections in his first six years in the NBA, Pippen was always known as Jordan's sidekick. He was always in the background, and MJ got all the accolades. But with Jordan leaving in 1993, it was Pippen's time to shine. And he relished the opportunity. Advertisement "I enjoyed my growth and development as a player, as well as the leadership role that I had," said the legendary forward in 2014. "It was the first time for me to be the clear-cut star. I didn't always have a chance to rise up when Michael was there, especially in my first three years. But by him stepping away a little bit, it gave me a little room to grow. And when he came back, it gave me an opportunity to stand beside him instead of standing below him." The Jordan-less Bulls finished the 1993-94 season with a 55-27 record, securing the third seed in the Eastern Conference. But despite sweeping the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round of the season, the New York Knicks ended their season in Eastern Conference semifinals after seven games. Pippen did a great job as the team's go-to guy. Throughout the regular season, he averaged 22.0 points, 8.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists. In 10 postseason games, the Hall of Famer put up 22.8 points, 8.3 rebounds and 4.6 assists. Related: Gary Payton says he warned Shaquille O'Neal not to beef with Dwyane Wade like he did with Kobe Bryant: "I had to pull him aside" The value of lockers The Bulls allowing Pippen to use Jordan's old locker proved that the team valued him more than he thought they did. Advertisement When Michael retired again in 1998 and Scottie was traded to the Houston Rockets that season, Bulls management issued a memo that prohibited anyone on the team from using them. "No one will use the spaces this season out of respect for Jordan and Pippen, who led Chicago to six National Basketball Association titles, but a team spokesman said the Bulls have not decided exactly what will be done with the lockers. Except for a preseason game, Jordan's and Pippen's lockers have been off limits to the new Bulls," per the NY Times. Pippen did Jordan's locker justice. But for all his greatness — even in MJ's absence — he couldn't lead the Bulls to the title by himself. Even when Jordan returned with 17 games left in the 1994-95 regular season, the Bulls still suffered a second-round playoff loss against the Orlando Magic. However, they completed their revenge campaign in 1996, kicking off their second three-peat of the decade. Jordan was still the main guy. Pippen was still his sidekick. But he was arguably the greatest sidekick in NBA history. And Michael needed him just as much as he needed Michael. Advertisement Related: "Scottie would probably be in a wheelchair" - Bulls assistant said MJ's return and Rodman's arrival extended Pippen's career This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jun 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Quinn Buckner reveals Larry Bird only watches Nikola Jokic play: "Larry said there is only one guy that he watches play"
Quinn Buckner reveals Larry Bird only watches Nikola Jokic play: "Larry said there is only one guy that he watches play" originally appeared on Basketball Network. There's always been a quiet link between Larry Bird and Nikola Jokic. Two guys who move at their own speed, see plays before they happen, and do most of their damage without ever breaking a sweat. They're not flashy, not fast, not built like Greek statues, but they control the game in a way very few ever have. Everything slows down when they touch the ball because their mind is already a few frames ahead of everyone else. Advertisement It's not just fans or analysts drawing the comparison anymore — Bird himself has made it. According to Quinn Buckner, the only active player "The Hick from French Lick" actually watches is "The Joker." And if you know anything about the Indiana native, you know that kind of endorsement means something. Bird doesn't hand out compliments, and he definitely doesn't go out of his way to hand the torch off to someone who hasn't earned it. So, for him to put Jokic in his orbit says more than any quote ever could. Larry's admission that he only watches the Serbian center Buckner isn't throwing around second-hand stories. The former Boston Celtics guard played a decade in the league, made four All-Defensive teams, and won the 1984 title next to Bird. He knows what greatness looks like up close — not from the outside looking in but from the trenches. So when he joined "The Dan Patrick Show" and was asked about Bird's legacy, the conversation quickly shifted toward who brought the championship to the Denver Nuggets. Advertisement "I don't know about that. I don't know about that one, Dan," said Q.B. when asked if there was ever going to be a time when "Kodak" drops out of the Top 10 players of all time. It wasn't just a regular compliment. Buckner explained the similarities go deeper than the numbers or the highlights. It's about the way both guys affect everyone around them. The way their teammates elevate just by sharing the floor with them. The Serbian center knows very well how to make the most out of the guys around him, but he has a feeling when he needs to take over as the primary scorer. Just like the three-time MVP knew. "Larry is, that's a uniqueness about him, but I'll tell you who he is comparable to. And Larry said there is only one guy that he watches play. It's Jokic," the retired guard revealed. 'And if you look at 'em, the difference is Jokic is longer. That's about it. He is longer and taller. Whatever the talent they have on their team, those guys play at a higher level for having played with Larry. I know it 'cause I did. And I watch Jokic do that,' he added. 'Larry Bird is as pure a basketball player as you're ever going to find.' Advertisement Related: Luc Longley on why he and Michael Jordan couldn't get along: "Mike was doing what he did to rookies, what he was doing to me" The comparison that makes a perfect sense "Larry Legend" isn't the type to hype up the next generation. He's not trying to stay relevant or attach his name to the current stars. If anything, he's been content staying out of the spotlight. So when the Indiana native goes out of his way to call someone the only guy he watches — and when that someone plays a position Bird never did — that speaks volumes. While the Jokic-Bird comps might seem like a stretch at first glance, they actually make perfect sense. Two players who elevate everyone around them, who value the right read over the loud play, and who keep piling up wins without caring much for the spotlight. Advertisement They do everything without looking like they're doing too much. Just pure basketball IQ with a side of unselfishness. And in a league that's often fueled by flash, that kind of substance still stands out — especially to a guy who built his legacy on it. Related: "God, if you let me get through this, I won't play no more" - Larry Bird describes the moment that made him retire for good This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jun 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pelicans Send Message to Departing Executive
Pelicans Send Message to Departing Executive originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Bryson Graham's 15-year tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans came to a close this week, as the longtime executive accepted a new role with the Atlanta Hawks. Advertisement Graham, who was promoted to general manager in June 2024, departs after just one season in the position. His exit follows a 21–61 campaign that saw the Pelicans finish with the third-worst record in the NBA and miss the playoffs for the second straight year. Bryson Graham at New Orleans Pelicans Media Day© Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images Injuries to Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and Dejounte Murray derailed New Orleans' season early. Williamson appeared in just 31 games, while Ingram was traded to Toronto at the deadline. 'Thank you for everything you did for the organization for the past 15 years, Bryson 👏,' the team posted, marking a public farewell to one of the franchise's longest-serving voices. Despite the setbacks, Graham's front office was credited with identifying and developing key rotation players, including Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III and rookie Yves Missi. He also played a role in drafting Dyson Daniels, who was later traded to Atlanta and earned All-Defensive First Team honors this season. Advertisement Graham now joins the Hawks as senior vice president of basketball operations, reporting to newly promoted general manager Onsi Saleh. The move signals Atlanta's intent to reshape its front office following the dismissal of Landry Fields in April. Graham's scouting background and track record with undervalued talent could prove valuable as the Hawks prepare for the draft and weigh roster changes after a second straight play-in exit. For New Orleans, the transition will continue with Joe Dumars, hired in April as president of basketball operations, who will now oversee the next phase of the franchise's rebuild. This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Ben Simmons Update Announced After Clippers Issue Big Demand
Ben Simmons Update Announced After Clippers Issue Big Demand originally appeared on Athlon Sports. On Wednesday, reports surfaced that the Los Angeles Clippers have placed significant conditions on the potential return of Ben Simmons, following a season in which the franchise underwhelmed despite high expectations. Advertisement League sources told HoopsHype's Michael Scotto that, beyond their plans for the non-taxpayer mid-level exception (MLE), Los Angeles is eyeing a backup point guard and rim-protecting center to bolster depth. Under that scenario, current backup center Drew Eubanks, who carries a $4.75 million non-guaranteed deal for 2024-25, "is not expected to return," as he could be used "as a salary filler in a trade or waived by the Clippers." Meanwhile, the statuses of Amir Coffey and Simmons remain "not certain," depending on their respective free-agent markets and roster fit. Los Angeles Clippers forward Ben Simmons (25).Dale Zanine-Imagn Images A native of Melbourne, Australia, Simmons immediately made an impact in Philadelphia, winning NBA Rookie of the Year in 2018 after averaging 15.8 points, 8.2 assists and 8.1 rebounds in his first season with the 76ers. Advertisement He then earned three consecutive All-Star nods (2019-2021), made the All-NBA Third Team in 2020 and secured two NBA All-Defensive First Team honors (2020, 2021), leading the league in steals per game (2.1) in 2020. In February, shortly after being bought out by the Brooklyn Nets and clearing waivers, Simmons inked a one-year, $1.08 million deal with the Clippers. In his debut on February 13, he posted 12 points, seven rebounds, six assists, three steals and one block in a 120-116 overtime win over the Utah Jazz. The 2024-25 season began with optimism for Los Angeles, led by stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, yet the Clippers once again fell well short of expectations, losing to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the NBA playoffs. Advertisement Related: Shaquille O'Neal Makes Strong Statement Amid Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Rumors Related: Damian Lillard Sends Strong Message to Bucks Teammate Amid Offseason This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 4, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Chris Paul Expected To Leave The Spurs; Mavericks Reportedly Interested
Chris Paul just wrapped up his 20th season in the NBA, and while he is no longer in his prime, he remains a solid player. Paul had a productive campaign with the San Antonio Spurs in 2024-25, but he isn't expected to wear their colors in 2025-26. NBA insider Marc Stein reports the 40-year-old is likely to be on his way out this offseason. "Anticipation is building that Chris Paul could be on the move again this offseason even though his time as a Spur as a mentor to Victor Wembanyama and a young team overall was an unabashed success," Stein wrote. "The reality now, though, is that San Antonio acquired De'Aaron Fox in February and just watched Stephon Castle assemble of a Rookie of the Year season. Advertisement "Since winning the May 12 draft lottery, San Antonio has likewise attempted to convey a desire to rival teams that it intends to keep the No. 2 overall pick in next month's draft to select Rutgers' Dylan Harper," Stein added. "With or without Harper in the Alamo City next season, it is difficult to see how there would be room in the Spurs' backcourt next season. If the Spurs do end up selecting Dylan Harper, then it would make little sense for Paul to stay, given how crowded the backcourt would be. The 12-time All-Star isn't interested in being a mentor full-time just yet and wants to play. Paul averaged 8.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game for the Spurs in 2024-25 after signing a one-year, 10.5 million deal in 2024. He made history by becoming the first player to play all 82 games in a 20th season or later. We rightfully celebrate LeBron James for his incredible longevity, but Paul deserves his flowers as well. For a small guard like him to play this long is remarkable. Advertisement As for where Paul could end up if he leaves the Spurs, Stein reports that the Dallas Mavericks could be a team to keep an eye on. 'Another name to monitor for Dallas: Chris Paul," Stein stated. "The free agent-to-be just turned 40 on May 6, but Paul also just played (and started) 82 games in his maiden season as a San Antonio Spur.' With Kyrie Irving currently sidelined after tearing his ACL in March, the Mavericks do need a point guard. Paul could fill in as the starter and then transition to a backup role when Irving reportedly returns in January 2026. Paul is sure to have other options, too, though. The Spurs loved having him around, and there would be quite a few teams interested in his services. You'd hope Paul goes to a contender, as a title is really the only thing missing from his resume. Advertisement Paul has made 12 All-Star, 11 All-NBA, and nine All-Defensive teams in his career. He has led the league in assists six times and steals five times. Paul came close to winning that elusive title in 2021, but his Phoenix Suns lost in six games to the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Finals. Related: Chris Paul Reveals His NBA Retirement Plans Ahead Of His 40th Birthday
