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Time of India
14-06-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
5 NBA Slam Dunk Contests every basketball fan remembers
5 NBA Slam Dunk Contests every basketball fan remembers (Image Credit: Getty Images) The NBA is not only about the fights among teams for the title from the start of the season to its end. It continues to entertain basketball fans long after the season. Due to the hype created and the fans' love for basketball stars, dunk contests have become an integral part of NBA culture. To date, 38 NBA Slam Dunk contests have been organized. The first Slam Dunk contest was held in 1984, which was won by Larry Nance. Since then, the All-Star break has become a moment every bona fide NBA lover looks forward to. The popularity of Slam Dunk events can be gauged from the fact that even the legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant looked forward to participating in them. Recently, during All-Star Weekend in San Francisco, Mac McClung won the Slam Dunk contest. He became the first ever player to have won three contests in a row. Also, he equaled Nate Robinson's record of winning three Slam Dunk contests. Let's take a look at the most talked-about NBA slam dunk contests that helped star players establish themselves as undisputable kings of the court. 1988 - Iconic duel between Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins The iconic dunk contest between legendary Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins took place at Chicago Stadium, the home court of Jordan. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 오스템 임플란트 받아가세요 임플란터 더 알아보기 Undo This contest is memorable both because of the hype and the controversy surrounding it. Jordan won it by a narrow margin, pushing Wilkins down the popularity chart. Michael Jordan vs. Dominique Wilkins | NBA Slam Dunk Contest | Director's Commentary | The Ringer Jordan's free-throw line dunk sealed the win in the duel for him. However, murmurs spread quickly among fans who thought Wilkins' power dunks were not scored correctly by the judges, leading to Jordan's win in the contest. This duel still makes a place in the discussions whenever memorable moments from the NBA are talked about. 2000 - Legendary dunks by Vince Carter, no less than masterclass for beginners Vince Carter, a master dunker from the Raptors, scored a perfect 50 twice, making the 2000 Slam Dunk contest a classic piece of learning for beginners. Carter displayed reverse 360 Windmill Dunk, Arm-in-the-Rim Dunk, and 360 Windmill from the baseline dunks to declare his supremacy in the game. Vince Carter puts on a show in legendary 2000 Slam Dunk Contest | NBA Highlights After scoring an Arm-in-the-Rim dunk, he turned to the cameras and blurted, 'It's over!', which became one of the iconic moments in NBA. 2008 - Winner Dwight Howard's 'Superman' moment made it unforgettable Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard made the contest quite dramatic as well as memorable with his change to a Superman cape mid-contest. Breaking from the traditional dunk, he chose to launch the ball into the loop. It led to a powerful throw-in because of the height at which he jumped. Dwight Howard - 2008 NBA Slam Dunk Contest (Champion) (Improved Quality) Judges gave a perfect 50 for his Supermanly show. Magic Johnson and the crowd erupted, 'It's over!' Another high point of the contest was the 'Birthday Cake' dunk. The runner-up, Gerald Green, performed this dunk, making it more dramatic by blowing out a candle mid-air. With the introduction of props and costumes, drama became an element of dunk culture after this contest. 2020 - Derrick Jones Jr face-off against Aaron Gordon, leading to tie-breaker Derrick Jones Jr and Aaron Gordon gave a tough fight to each other, leading the contest to a tie-breaker. Jones Jr and Gordon scored perfect 50s back-to-back in the final round, which required a tie-breaker dunk to decide the winner. In the final dunk, Gordon leaped over 7'5' Tacko Fall to score a dunk. It was awarded 47 points, which stirred reactions from fans. They thought it was an unfair decision to rob Gordon of the three points. Jones Jr won the final dunk and the contest by scoring a perfect 50. 2023 - A complete Mac McClung Show Philadelphia 76ers' Mac McClung ruled the 2023 NBA Slam Dunk contest with his sheer brilliance. He made a historic 99.8 score, the highest for the starting round in the contest. In the final round, too, he repeated the magic and scored two perfect 50s, culminating his journey in a phenomenal win. McClung made the winning dunk in his high school jersey; it was a 540-degree dunk and earned him the victory in the contest. He started a new trend by becoming the first G-League player to receive an invitation to the contest. Also Read: Mac McClung: From G League stardom to NBA's surprise dunk contest champ Slam Dunk Contests are terrific entertainers, and an honest display of athleticism and intelligence by the players. The contest is increasingly becoming dramatic and is being decorated with wow factors like jumping over the cars to make it more exciting.
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Lakers' LeBron James reacts to Jamie Foxx's big BET Awards night
The post Lakers' LeBron James reacts to Jamie Foxx's big BET Awards night appeared first on ClutchPoints. At the 2025 BET Awards, emotions ran high as Jamie Foxx received the prestigious Ultimate Icon award—and no one was prouder than LeBron James. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar took to social media to share his admiration for Foxx's recovery and legacy in the entertainment world. The bond between James and Foxx runs deep. On Monday night, James tuned in to the ceremony at Los Angeles' Peacock Theater, where Foxx was honored for his decades-long contributions to music, comedy, and film. His reaction on X, formerly known as Twitter, quickly went viral. '🫡 @iamjamiefoxx BET 'ULTIMATE ICON'!! Love my brother and CONGRATULATIONS!!!!' James' tweet captured his heartfelt support for Foxx's powerful comeback following a life-threatening health scare in 2023. In an emotional acceptance speech—also shared on social media by The Hollywood Reporter—Foxx reflected on surviving a stroke that left him unconscious for nearly three weeks. Foxx said he saw the 'in memoriam' segment and wondered if he might have been included. His vulnerability resonated with the audience and with James, who has long been a close friend to Foxx. The Lakers legend's reaction on social media showcased more than just support, it reflected how deeply personal Foxx's story is to him. With the Lakers out of playoff contention, James has taken time this offseason to reflect, celebrate his peers, and appreciate those who have impacted his life. Despite turning 40, James continues to defy the odds on the court. In the 2024–25 regular season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists, with playoff numbers rising across the board. His emotional awareness off the court matches his elite performance on it. Their connection even extends into film, with Foxx having previously cast James in his unreleased movie All-Star Weekend. Now, the Ultimate Icon award only cements Foxx's influence—something that James clearly values deeply. Foxx's comeback is a powerful narrative of resilience, and The King's vocal support amplifies the moment's cultural weight. In a year where both men faced challenges, their friendship remains a testament to mutual respect, survival, and celebration. Related: LeBron James puts 'no bag' critics on blast Related: Former Laker Byron Scott reveals Kobe Bryant's 'most gangster s**t' ever
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Stephen A. Smith claps back at Kevin Durant as NBA All-Star Game debate intensifies over lack of player effort
(Image Source - Getty Images) Think the NBA All-Star Game is all about fun and games? Think again. Stephen A. Smith is not mincing words. He's warning that if players don't amp up their effort, the NBA could actually do away with All-Star Weekend for good. This storm started when Kevin Durant brushed aside Smith's warning with just one word "Dramatic." Now, the debate about motivation, legacy, and the future of the league's biggest event is really heating up. You're going to want to catch up on this. Why so much drama around Adam Silver's new USA vs World format? When NBA Commissioner Adam Silver disclosed the new Team USA vs Team World format for the February 2026 All-Star Game in Inglewood, it was touted as a courageous effort to bring back competitiveness and worldwide appeal. The objective? To rekindle the excitement that has dimmed in recent All-Star events, where low energy and significant drop-offs have caused fans and media to express their dissatisfaction. That's where Stephen A. Smith comes in. On First Take, he warned — 'If this doesn't work…you're going to see the NBA do away with All‑Star Weekend. And this era of players will forever be stained…'. He took aim at the current lackluster approach, saying that fans, legends, and even insiders have become "turned off". A few days later, Kevin Durant, a 15-time All-Star and forward for the Philadelphia Suns, chimed in on X with a single word: "Dramatic." His opinion? He thinks Smith is exaggerating a bit—though he didn't directly challenge the main point. According to Smith, the league is facing a crisis: ratings are dropping, fans are losing interest, and the trustworthiness of players who only show up for the paycheck moments is questionable. This clash of viewpoints isn't merely talk—it's at the heart of the league's biggest event. Silver's plan is to transform the All-Star Game into a high-stakes, story-driven spectacle, highlighting national pride against international talent. If the new format fails, the consequences could be significant—not only for TV contracts but also for player legacies and the financial framework surrounding All-Star Weekend. Also Read: Fake Instagram post from The Sports Memery tricks Stephen A. Smith into publicly shaming WNBA star Brittney Griner The face-off between Stephen A. Smith and Kevin Durant goes beyond mere media drama—it's a pivotal moment for the NBA. As the USA vs World format kicks off in February 2026, every player's commitment will be closely watched. Smith cautions that if they show up without full effort, it might spell trouble for the franchise's celebrated mid-season break. On the flip side, if they come in strong? They could turn things around. Either way, all eyes are on them, and the pressure is mounting.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Sabrina Ionescu breaks Liberty's all-time 3-point record vs. Mystics
The post Sabrina Ionescu breaks Liberty's all-time 3-point record vs. Mystics appeared first on ClutchPoints. The New York Liberty, fresh off their first championship in franchise history, have been arguably the best team in the WNBA this year following their 7-0 start. Only the Minnesota Lynx have been on par with an 8-0 start. Helping power the Liberty this season has been star point guard Sabrina Ionescu who set a team record during Thursday's game against the Washington Mystics. Advertisement Sabrina Ionescu set a Liberty franchise record by becoming the team's all-time leader in three-point makes, as per Jackie Powell of The Next. The previous Liberty record holder for most three-point makes was Crystal Robinson who played for the franchise from 1999-2005. Ionescu has been on the league's most prolific three-point shooters since she was drafted by the Liberty with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 WNBA Draft. She famously competed against Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry in a three-point shootout during 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend. Since her rookie season, Ionescu holds a career average of 36.3 percent shooting from the three-point line. She won the WNBA's three-point contest during 2023 All-Star Weekend after missing only two shots the entire competition, setting a record in the process with 37 points out of a possible 40. In 2023, Ionescu's second year being selected to the All-Star team, she shot a career-best 44.8 percent from the three-point line on just about eight attempts per game. Advertisement This season, Ionescu has appeared in all seven games for the Liberty to this point at a little over 28 minutes per game. She's been averaging 17.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.1 steals with splits of 43.2 percent shooting from the field, 35.7 percent shooting from the three-point line and 92 percent shooting from the free-throw line. Ionescu's three-point percentage this season is the second highest mark in her career. She also holds a 37.2 percent career shooting average from three-point range in the playoffs. In 2022 and 2023 she posted back to back playoff runs of 40 percent shooting from three-point range. Related: Breanna Stewart is doing something the former MVP has never done before Related: Liberty's Jonquel Jones exits vs. Mystics with apparent injury
Time Business News
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Business News
EE Shorts Explained Colors, Drops, and Collectibility
In the world of streetwear, few brands have carved out as much cultural cachet in such a short time as EE, or Eric Emanuel. Known for its vibrant basketball shorts and distinct logo, EE has become a must-have for both diehard sneakerheads and casual fashion enthusiasts alike. But what makes EE shorts so collectible, and why do certain colors and drops sell out in seconds? Let's break it down. Eric Emanuel started out designing custom sportswear that blended nostalgia with modern aesthetics. His shorts quickly gained traction on social media and among influencers. By focusing on a single iconic product — the mesh basketball short — and consistently releasing eye-catching colorways, the brand built a cult following. The simplicity of the product became its strength: stylish, comfortable, and extremely wearable, both on and off the court. Color is perhaps the most distinctive feature of EE shorts. Releases range from vibrant neon shades and pastel tones to classic primary colors and unique prints. Each colorway tells a story — some align with sports teams or school spirit, while others are seasonal or holiday-themed. Collectors often chase after rare or unconventional colors. For example, limited runs in tie-dye or camo prints tend to be more desirable because of their scarcity. EE rarely re-releases the same color twice, which increases the exclusivity and long-term value of older pairs. EE's release model mirrors the hype-driven strategy pioneered by brands like Supreme. New shorts are typically released in 'drops,' which happen weekly or biweekly — often every Friday at 12 PM EST. These drops are announced shortly beforehand via social media or email newsletters, creating a sense of urgency and exclusivity. Because inventory is limited, drops often sell out within minutes. This fuels the resale market, where certain colorways can fetch two to three times their original retail price. The thrill of securing a pair during a drop becomes part of the experience and appeal. Collaborations have also played a major role in EE's rise. The brand has partnered with powerhouse names like Adidas, Reebok, New Era, and even McDonald's — each collaboration generating significant buzz and introducing the shorts to new audiences. Special edition EE shorts, whether from a collab or to celebrate an event (like All-Star Weekend or holiday-themed releases), become instant collector's items. These pieces tend to appreciate in value quickly due to their uniqueness and limited availability. Although at first glance EE shorts may resemble standard mesh basketball shorts, the difference lies in the details. They're made from high-quality mesh with double-layered lining, strong stitching, and a perfectly tailored fit that flatters a variety of body types. The waistband is snug without being too tight, and the inseam is cut to hit just right — not too long, not too short. This attention to detail reinforces the brand's premium feel and justifies the higher price point compared to standard athletic shorts. The EE brand has built a strong community around its drops. Social media plays a key role, with fans posting outfits, unboxings, and colorway rankings. The brand is particularly popular among athletes, influencers, and rappers, which adds to its visibility and prestige. Wearing EE shorts has become a subtle flex — a way to signal taste, exclusivity, and awareness of streetwear trends. It's not just about owning a pair of shorts; it's about being part of a movement. If you're looking to start collecting EE shorts, here are a few quick tips: Follow EE on social media for drop announcements. Create an account on the website and save your info — speed matters. Use Apple Pay or autofill to check out faster during drops. Resale platforms like StockX, GOAT, and Grailed are useful if you miss a drop but be prepared to pay a premium. Stick to classic or bold colors for versatility and long-term value. EE shorts are more than just summer-ready gear — they're a phenomenon built on smart branding, limited releases, and eye-catching design. Whether you're wearing them for comfort, style, or collecting them for their resale value, EE shorts have solidified their place in modern streetwear culture. As the brand continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: the next drop will be fast, fresh, and fiercely competitive. Get ready. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
