Latest news with #Classof2024
Fox Sports
5 hours ago
- Sport
- Fox Sports
3 Best 2025 NBA Draft Fits for Rutgers Star Dylan Harper
Rutgers guard Dylan Harper, the No. 2 overall prospect in the Class of 2024, is coming off a superb freshman season in Piscataway, where he dazzled as an impact scorer who facilitated and made an impact on both ends of the floor. The 6-foot-6 Harper averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, four assists and 1.4 steals per game, while shooting 48.4/33.3/75.0 in 29 games. He figures to be a Day-1 starter in the NBA. It's simply a matter of whether teams view him as a point guard or more of a combo guard/off-guard. While former Duke forward and 2024-25 Men's College Basketball Player of the Year Cooper Flagg figures to be selected first overall in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks, Harper will likely be right behind. That said, here are the top three NBA fits for Harper, among the teams selecting in the top six. 3. Utah Jazz (Pick No. 5) The Jazz have had budding young players for some time, but only so many definitive franchise building blocks. Harper would be a player whom the franchise can label as a pillar and who would form a deadly, long-term backcourt with Keyonte George. Two years ago, Utah appeared to have a franchise player in Lauri Markkanen, who was coming off a breakout season that saw him earn an All-Star nod. However, Markkanen's scoring has dropped in each of the past two seasons (25.6 points per game in 2022-23 to 23.2 points in 2023-24 to 19.0 points in 2024-25), and the Jazz were 21st in the NBA in scoring (111.9 PPG) and tied for 22nd in field goal percentage (45.4%) this season. They need offensive voltage, which Harper would provide. A backcourt pairing of George and Harper would be one of two quick, blossoming guards who can score in a variety of ways and become the heart of head coach Will Hardy's offense. In the wake of that development, defensive attention comes off Markkanen, who has been asked to carry the offensive load for three seasons. The Jazz have a guard glut with Collin Sexton and Isaiah Collier, among others, in place, but a team that just posted the worst record in the sport can't turn down the chance to add high-ceiling talent; they can draft or trade up to select Harper (Utah has picks No. 5 and 21 in the first round this year) and then make a trade with their guard depth to bolster the frontcourt. What likely stops Harper from landing in Salt Lake City, though, is him potentially being off the board before pick No. 5 (yes, Utah slipped from No. 1 to No. 5 in the NBA Draft Lottery), and the Jazz potentially feeling that drafting based on need — if value is equal — is the more plausible route, anyway. 2. Washington Wizards (Pick No. 6) Alex Sarr is a tremendous talent who can fly up and down the floor, hit the boards and deny shots like nobody's business, but the Wizards still don't have a franchise centerpiece. Harper could become that player for Washington. The Wizards were 27th in the NBA in scoring (108.0 PPG), 28th in field goal percentage (43.9%) and 29th in 3-point shooting percentage (33.5%) this season, and that came with trading Kyle Kuzma to the Milwaukee Bucks in February. In other words, offense is desperately needed here. Harper would have the ball in his hands a great deal, likely running head coach Brian Keefe's offense, and could play to his strengths, as he'd potentially be their No. 2 scorer behind Jordan Poole — who could easily be traded within the next eight months — from the outset. With Harper and Poole in the backcourt, Sarr becoming a more impactful interior offensive player and the continually improving Bilal Coulibaly and Corey Kispert present, the Wizards begin to have a legitimate core to build through. Having a multidimensional offensive player in Harper makes the difference. Washington would likely have to trade up from pick No. 6 to draft Harper, but it could include one of its younger guards (Bub Carrington?) and a future first-rounder in a deal to secure the Rutgers standout. The Wizards are a sweet landing spot for Harper to tap into his star potential. There's just a team that makes a little more sense for him. 1. Charlotte Hornets (Pick No. 4) The Hornets are in a rut, but they're in that spot with compelling young players like LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Harper may be the perfect fit in-between Ball and Miller and help Charlotte finally make a jump. Ball will continue to be the centerpiece of Charlotte's offense, but having another player who can handle the rock and be a facilitator would do wonders, as Ball can get too 3-happy. On that note, Harper could be the team's point guard if and when Ball, who has been limited to 35 games per season over the past three years due to continual ankle and wrist injuries, misses time. Having Ball and Miller — whose 2024-25 campaign ended after 27 games due to a wrist injury — healthy is of the essence, as the team's top two scorers' absence this season led to Charlotte finishing last in the NBA in scoring (105.1 PPG) and field goal percentage (43%). Their returns — or at least more availability from the two homegrown players — with Miles Bridges, who has averaged 20.5 PPG over his last three seasons, and Harper by their side, would give the Hornets a compelling starting five on the offensive end. On the Harper front, the soon-to-be rookie wouldn't be asked to come in and play hero. He can ease into the mix and not be tasked with becoming the team's offensive focal point. Harper, 19, has the talent to be at least the No. 2 scorer on a contending team, but after just one year of college ball, it's likely best for the Rutgers star to develop in a tertiary offensive role to start his career. Charlotte, which has won no more than 30 games in each of the past three seasons, needs another building block for it to complement their foundation. Harper fits the bill. Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account, and follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily! FOLLOW Follow your favorites to personalize your FOX Sports experience National Basketball Association Rutgers Scarlet Knights College Basketball recommended Get more from National Basketball Association Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
The Citizen
12 hours ago
- General
- The Citizen
Church hosts Education Sunday to honour graduates
SASOLBURG – Every year, the City of Love & Restoration – Full Gospel Church in Zamdela hosts a special service to honour its newly graduated congregants. This year was no exception, as the church once again celebrated academic excellence with a heartfelt and uplifting ceremony on June 15. The service was graced by the presence of the Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, who joined graduates, learners, and church leaders in recognising the accomplishments of the Class of 2024. The event was hosted by Bishop Thabiso Mashiloane and Lady Bishop L. Mashiloane, with Dr Ncha skillfully leading the programme. Elder T.J. Sekolanyane opened the service by reflecting on its purpose: to commend graduates who have overcome challenges on their educational journey, and to inspire current learners to remain committed to their studies. Throughout the event, a variety of speakers delivered motivational messages to the congregation. Among them were Dr Mpho Ramoliki and Thandiwe Pino, who shared powerful words of encouragement. Dr Ramoliki urged learners to be discerning in their choice of role models, stating: 'If you are so thirsty that you want to drink from every cup presented to you, you will be poisoned. Don't make slay queens your role models.' Delivering the keynote address, Dr Mhaule congratulated the graduates and emphasised that learning does not stop after matric. She encouraged young people to embrace education as a lifelong journey and to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset to help combat unemployment and contribute positively to their communities. The celebration concluded with a symbolic gift handover to the graduates by Professor Segalo, Bishop and Lady Bishop Mashiloane, and Dr Mhaule, a gesture recognising the graduates' hard work, resilience, and dedication. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Jon Scheyer Sends Strong Message About Cooper Flagg Ahead of NBA Draft
Jon Scheyer Sends Strong Message About Cooper Flagg Ahead of NBA Draft originally appeared on Athlon Sports. With the NBA draft set for June 25 and 26, the countdown is officially on until former Duke Blue Devils star Cooper Flagg hears his name called as the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Mavericks. Advertisement Ahead of the big night, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer joined "The Ryen Russillo Podcast" to discuss Flagg's mindset and the potential of how he might fit at the next level—particularly on a team already loaded with proven star veterans like Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, and Anthony Davis. 'Cooper had as good and as special of a season as I've ever been a part of with any player," Scheyer said. "But he also had moments where things didn't go his way—when we lost, when there was heartbreak. And in those moments, there were no excuses, no finger-pointing. It was always, 'What does Cooper need to do better?' That's pretty old school, pretty special, and it's a big reason why he's going to be the No. 1 pick and why he'll be a great player for a very long time.' Scheyer continued, 'He's so unselfish—that's just his nature. He could've easily averaged 20-plus points this year. Going forward, I think he'll be just fine With his ability to shoot from three, finish at the rim, and create his own shot, I think he's going to become one of the best scorers in the NBA over time.' Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg and head coach Jon Scheyer© Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images Cooper Flagg was widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick before he even stepped on the court at Duke—and somehow, he still managed to exceed the sky-high expectations that followed him from Newport, Maine, to Montverde Academy, where he was the top recruit in the Class of 2024. Flagg led the Blue Devils to both the ACC regular season and conference tournament titles, a Final Four appearance, and topped the team in nearly every major statistical category. His dominant season earned him a sweep of the sport's top honors, including the Wooden Award, Naismith Player of the Year, and both ACC Player and Rookie of the Year. Advertisement Related: Duke Basketball Makes Big Announcement on Tuesday This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
Boston Globe
14-06-2025
- Sport
- Boston Globe
Yet another championship moment for Izzy Kittredge as Medfield girls' lacrosse repeats in Division 3
'She shows up for the big games,' said Medfield coach Mary Laughna. 'She loves to compete. She loves winning. She can take over those games.' It's the second straight title, third in four years, and fourth overall for Medfield, which swiftly retooled after losing all-time great Kelly Blake and the rest of a strong Class of 2024. Advertisement Kittredge had plenty of help, as juniors Mia Macropoulos and Stella Scobbo added three goals apiece and eight players scored to fuel the No. 1 Warriors (22-3) to a resounding triumph. Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up UMass-bound senior catalyst Reese Bromby paced the No. 2 Clippers (17-6) with five goals, and classmates Avery Tahnk, Grace Chandler, and Emerson Leahy all contributed in a rematch of last year's final. 'We graduated so much and had 13 brand new girls to the team,' said Newburyport coach Cat Batchelder. 'They just grew from the start to the finish. I don't think we ever thought we'd be here at the beginning of the season. It's a huge accomplishment.' Medfield built a 6-3 edge through 1 and led 9-6 at halftime after timely goals from Kittredge to cap each quarter. Advertisement Scobbo, Kendall Herrick, and Sophia Zeppieri helped the Warriors push the margin to 13-7 through 3, then Kittredge provided the dagger and Elizabeth Blake the exclamation point in the fourth. 'I'm in shock,' said Herrick, a senior captain. 'I can't believe we did it back to back.' For Kittredge, who will attend Noble and Greenough School in the fall, it was an exhilarating yet bittersweet end to a truly magical run in her hometown. 'I'm so sad leaving, and I'm probably going to cry my eyes out later,' Kittredge said. 'I'm excited to go there, but I'm also going to miss them so much.' When it was over, the players bolted from midfield to the sidelines to embrace the Warrior faithful. Maeve Kelly, Michaela McDonald, and Blake stealthily snuck up behind Laughna and gave her a Gatorade shower (of water). Laughna has now steered Medfield to consecutive titles on the anniversary of her father passing. Rory, who helped her discover the sport, died June 13, 2022, at age 67. 'It's kind of ironic and crazy that we keep playing in the state championship on this day,' Laughna said. 'I like to think that he probably helps me out a little bit.' Medfield midfielder Izzy Kittredge (25) rifles in one of her six goals in the Division 2 final against Newburyport. Heather Diehl for the Boston Glo Medfield attack Sarah Faust (13) celebrates with her teammates after scoring. Heather Diehl for the Boston Glo The Medfield players shared the trophy with friends and family after winning the Division 3 title. Heather Diehl for the Boston Glo Medfield won its third state title in four years, and fourth overall Friday night at Babson. Heather Diehl for the Boston Glo Trevor Hass can be reached at
The Citizen
04-06-2025
- General
- The Citizen
The IIE's Varsity College Sandton celebrates the graduates of the Class of 2024
The IIE's Varsity College Sandton celebrates the graduates of the Class of 2024 A total of 954 students from The IIE's Varsity College Sandton were honoured recently during a graduation ceremony held at the Mosaiek Teatro in Randburg. Graduates from The IIE's faculties of Commerce, Humanities and Social Sciences, Law, Information and Communication Technology, Education, and the School of Finance and Accounting were celebrated for their achievements. According to Kate Traill, the public relations and events co-ordinator, the event marked a major milestone in the academic journeys of the Class of 2024, showcasing the Sandton campus's ongoing commitment to academic excellence. Also read: Future legal leaders demonstrate practical skills in The IIE's Varsity College's law business simulation It also highlighted the resilience and determination of the graduating class. Varsity College is part of the Independent Institute of Education (The IIE), South Africa's largest and most accredited private higher education provider. 'A standout moment for the Sandton campus was the recognition of five exceptional students who achieved the highest academic results in their qualifications across all 13 IIE campuses.' These top achievers include: Annemieke Thomaidis, Bachelor of Arts graduate, with 24 distinctions out of 24 modules and an average of 90%. Nalini Nana, Bachelor of Arts in Law graduate, with 23 distinctions out of 24 modules and an 86% average. Leora Kuper, Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching graduate, with a perfect 46 distinctions and a 95% average. Suzette Klingenberg, Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching graduate, earned 49 distinctions and a 94% average. Ulrich Van Zyl, top national Bachelor of Laws graduate, achieved 43 distinctions with a 91% average. He was awarded the prestigious PH Group Honour Medal. Read more: Diverse sectors meet future talent at The IIE's Varsity College Sandton career fair These achievements reflect the hard work of the students, the unwavering support from academic staff, and the quality of education at The IIE's Varsity College Sandton. Campus head Kimberly McIntyre said: 'Graduation has always been the highlight in our events calendar. This generation of graduates is resilient, adaptable, and prepared to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. We are incredibly proud of their success.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts!
