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Yahoo
an hour ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Stephen A. Smith Lists Top 5 NBA Point Guards Of All-Time In Front Of Magic Johnson
Stephen A. Smith Lists Top 5 NBA Point Guards Of All-Time In Front Of Magic Johnson originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The role of the point guard is one of the most critical ones on the basketball court. While giving the masters of this craft their dues on "First Take", ESPN's Stephen A. Smith shared his list of the top 5 point guards of all-time, while facing NBA legend Magic Johnson. Advertisement Smith started his list with Chris Paul at No. 5. He said: "Led the league in assists on several occasions. He is one of the all-time great facilitators. Controls paces, controls tempo. A leader. Knows everybody's job, everybody's accountability." Smith justified that this was a tough decision to make, since he had to decide between Paul and Gary Payton for the fifth spot. But the analyst eventually justified it using Paul's offensive impact as a reason. At No. 4, Smith selected Jason Kidd and said: "Did you see this, brother? Without a jump shot, and you still couldn't stop him. You talk about a fast break? Lord, have mercy. Watch this brother push the ball up the court. You see the passes that he made. Richard Jefferson was relevant because of Jason Kidd... Jay Kidd was something special to behold, and by the way, a champion, even as he got older." Advertisement As enamored as Smith was by Kidd, he didn't place him in his top 3. Instead, he picked Isiah Thomas at third and justified: "Michael Jordan got him as No. 2, I got him as No. 3, but damn it, the greatest little guard in the history of basketball... A two-time champion, a national champion. The brother is something special. He was Kyrie before Kyrie. And the Bad Boy Pistons, even with all those rough riders, those leaders, he was clearly the unquestionable leader." Following up with Thomas at three, Smith selected Stephen Curry as No. 2 on his list. He added: "The greatest shooter God has ever seen. But, Magic pointed it out on "Get Up" earlier this morning - the ball handling, the passing skills. This brother sets it up. And here's the thing, impact is what it comes down to." Advertisement "This brother's movement without the ball, keeping everybody's head on a swivel, scaring the living hell out of you because he can shoot, but with the ball handling capabilities, and he's a four-time champion... When we think of him, we think of divine intervention, because his gifts are God-given. It works on it even more. Give him credit. He's that dude." For all the positive comments, Curry still couldn't crack the top spot. Smith especially reserved that for the legend in front of him, selecting Magic Johnson as No. 1 on his list. "When you're talking about point guards," he said, quoting Eddie Johnson in the process. "You're talking about facilitators. You're talking about guys that set others up. You're talking about guys that make the other people around them so much better than what they really are. Who did that better than the magic man?" Smith ranted about the Showtime Lakers and the impact they had on the NBA landscape, running most NBA teams into the ground with their dazzling and dominant displays led by Johnson. Johnson couldn't hold back his laughter while watching Smith's animated antics. But by the end of the analyst's segment, the Lakers legend shared his reaction to the list. He said: Advertisement "It's a great list, no question about it. You don't have to change a thing. It's just two guys when I look at - My boy from Utah, John Stockton, he's right there. And Steve Nash... I'm not saying change. I'm just saying, add those two guys." Magic Johnson was by far one of the most iconic players the league has ever seen, particularly in the point guard position. At 6'9", he broke the mould for the position, ushering in the era of positionless basketball. With a career average of 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 11.2 assists per game, Johnson was a master of his craft. With his talent and skill yielding success for him as a player, he amassed several achievements, including five NBA titles, three Finals MVP awards, three MVP awards, 12x All-Star selections, and 10x All-NBA selections, while also being named to the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team. This list also features two active players in Paul and Curry. While both remain relevant even at this stage in their careers, it is evident why Curry is listed higher. Advertisement Heading into next season, Paul is expected to test free agency, making a move out of San Antonio to hopefully join a contender in LA. Meanwhile, Curry remains a central figure with the Warriors, who aim to make adjustments to make another title charge next season. Related: Stephen Curry Reveals He Suffers From "Impostor Syndrome" This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Thunder's Jalen Williams gets Scottie Pippen comparison during NBA Finals
The post Thunder's Jalen Williams gets Scottie Pippen comparison during NBA Finals appeared first on ClutchPoints. With the Oklahoma City Thunder preparing for Game 5 after winning Game 4 against the Indiana Pacers last Friday, the key impactful players on the team besides Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are no doubt Jalen Williams. As the Thunder star in Williams has been a key No. 2 option to Gilgeous-Alexander, ESPN's Brian Windhorst would go so far as to make the comparison that he's heard that he's like Scottie Pippen. Advertisement On the show 'Get Up,' the panel would be asked, 'What will be the most important determining factor in Game 5?' as Windhorst spoke about the importance of Williams and how he helps Gilgeous-Alexander. It would be here that Windhorst mentions that he's heard around the league that people believe Williams will have a career like Pippen. 'Yeah, so the big thing that was the difference maker in game four was how SGA [Gilgeous-Alexander] worked with Jalen Williams,' Windhorst said. 'There are people in this league who believe that Jalen Williams can have a Scottie Pippen-like career, because he can do it at both ends.' Pippen was a crucial part of the six titles won by the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s as he was a highly effective player on both sides of the ball and acted as a No. 2 option to that of Michael Jordan. Thus, Williams gets the comparison since he embodies those traits. Thunder duo will be 'big thing' for 'next decade' Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images With the Thunder looking to make history in the NBA Finals, Game 5 will no doubt be important for Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and the rest to take a 3-2 series lead. Looking beyond the current championship series, Windhorst would go on to say that this duo will be a 'big thing' for the 'next decade' in the league. Advertisement 'The playing of point guard throughout the first three quarters of this game, and then working in the two-man game to force a better matchup for SGA,' Windhorst said. 'Jalen Williams was the guy who unlocked SGA throughout that whole game, and that one-two maneuver could be a big thing, not just tonight, but for the next decade in the NBA.' At any rate, the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference in Oklahoma City, is looking to take back the series lead with Game 5 being on their home floor as it takes place on Monday night. Related: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stunned at his pregame autographs totals before NBA Finals game Related: Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drops 'Swiss Army knife' take on Jalen Williams
IOL News
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Discover the hottest new music gems for your weekend playlist
'Partii' is an invitation to let loose, encouraging listeners to escape the ordinary and surrender to the beat. Image: Supplied With the weekend here, music enthusiasts find themselves on the lookout for fresh tracks to enliven their playlists and energise the vibe. This week, an exciting array of emerging artists and seasoned musicians alike have released tunes that are bound to inspire dance moves and introspection alike. Here's a curated selection of the hottest new music gems you should consider adding to your weekend rotation. 'Partii' is an invitation to let loose, encouraging listeners to escape the ordinary and surrender to the beat. Image: Supplied 'Partii' by Kamo Mphela Kamo Mphela is back with a high-octane anthem titled 'Partii'. This electrifying track, boasting contributions from Aymos, Jay Music, Que DJ, and SpacePose, is a celebration of youth and rhythm. 'Partii' is an invitation to let loose, encouraging listeners to escape the ordinary and surrender to the beat. Mphela aims for the song to instill a sense of freedom, making it perfect for the dancefloor and TikTok challenges alike. Initially penned at just 15-years-old, "Dancin Wit U" encapsulates the dreamy essence of a perfect first date. Image: Supplied 'Dancin Wit U' by Jaydᴎ Elle Rising pop star Jaydᴎ Elle delivers a disco-pop delight with her new single 'Dancin Wit U'. Initially penned at just 15-years-old, the song encapsulates the dreamy essence of a perfect first date. It layers nostalgic grooves with a modern flair, reminding listeners of the joyful anticipation of new connections. 'It's got soul, it's got sparkle, and it makes you want to move,' Elle shared, highlighting its feel-good nature. "Get Up" encourages listeners to embrace courage and self-confidence. Image: Supplied 'Get Up' by Charley Dixon featuring Yedda Afro-tech DJ Charley Dixon's latest release, 'Get Up', features the soulful voice of Yedda. This pulsating anthem encourages listeners to embrace courage and self-confidence. Dixon described the song as a personal message about stepping into one's power, and it's a call for everyone to rise and pursue their dreams fearlessly. 'Bengicela' serves as both a dancefloor hit and a heartfelt prayer for hope and guidance. Image: Supplied 'Bengicela' by MaWhoo, GL_Ceejay, Thukuthela, and Jazzworx Following her hit 'Uzizwa Kanjan', MaWhoo returns on a spiritual note with 'Bengicela'. This collaboration serves as both a dancefloor hit and a heartfelt prayer for hope and guidance. MaWhoo's powerful vocals resonate through Jazzworx's emotive production, creating a track that offers solace amid life's uncertainties. In a touching tribute to resilience, Major Bless honours Youth Month with his debut single 'Can't Go Back'. Image: Supplied 'Can't Go Back' by Major Bless In a touching tribute to resilience, Major Bless honours Youth Month with his debut single 'Can't Go Back'. Drawing from personal and societal struggles, the Afro-soul track is a rallying cry for the youth to rise above their past and embrace a hopeful future. 'We move forward, we grow, and we become what we were born to be,' Bless asserted. "Che Che" exudes confidence, self-expression and the joy of living your best life. Image: Supplied 'Che Che' by Young Jonn featuring Asake Young Jonn brings the groove with 'Che Che', an infectious Afro-pop anthem featuring the dynamic Asake. This vibrant track exudes confidence, self-expression and the joy of living your best life. Anticipated as a part of Jonn's upcoming 'Blue Disco' project, it's primed to be a staple of summer playlists. "Unguye uThixo" reflects a young generation's embrace of faith through music. Image: Supplied 'Unguye uThixo' by Zikhona Maxine Zonke Emerging gospel artist Zikhona Maxine Zonke offers a heartfelt anthem with 'Unguye uThixo' (You're God). Rooted in gratitude and purpose, her song reflects a young generation's embrace of faith through music. 'It's about how He rescued me from hopelessness,' Zonke shared, echoing a theme of love and direction.
USA Today
a day ago
- Sport
- USA Today
How do the Nets pivot with Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo staying put?
How do the Nets pivot with Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo staying put? The Brooklyn Nets have plenty to think about this offseason as the 2025 NBA Draft is less than one week away with free-agency probably beginning shortly afterwards. Brooklyn has five picks in the upcoming Draft, but they also lead the league in cap space so it's interesting to ponder how they could navigate this offseason amidst all of the moves. ESPN's Brian Windhorst recently said on Get Up that "There's not going to be a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade in the short-term future" as he spoke on what could happen this summer with Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant and Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Brooklyn reportedly has been interested in trading for Antetokounmpo for some time now, but it seems that he is off the table at the moment. "The league has come to terms with the realization that the Bucks are going to keep him and Giannis is not going to ask for a trade. I can't speak to what might happen in August," Windhorst continued. To Windhorst's point, while Antetokounmpo appeared to be available earlier this offseason after ESPN's Shams Charania's reporting, that doesn't look to be the case now. For the Nets, they could take the patient approach of waiting to see what happens closer to training camp, but by then, they will have already gone through the Draft and free-agency. With Brooklyn's league-leading cap space, they can choose to go after restricted free-agents like Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga or Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey. If the Nets are willing to go after players that could be available for a trade, there are players like Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr., Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen, and Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball as guys whose names have appeared in trade rumors. Either way, with the news that Antetokounmpo is staying in Milwaukee as of now, Brooklyn will have to pivot in some way and there are a myriad of ways to do so.
USA Today
a day ago
- Sport
- USA Today
ESPN's Windhorst: Rockets ‘definitely still in race' for Kevin Durant trade
ESPN's Windhorst: Rockets 'definitely still in race' for Kevin Durant trade ESPN's Brian Windhorst on the Rockets and Heat as Kevin Durant trade suitors: 'I think he's got Miami on there because he's attracted by the city and Pat Riley. It's certainly not the team.' The Miami Heat and Houston Rockets appear to be the only two NBA teams who are both on Kevin Durant's list of desired destinations and actively engaged with the Phoenix Suns to get such a deal done. And between those two, longtime league insider Brian Windhorst thinks it's Houston that could be the most compelling basketball fit. While the terms of a potential deal remain unknown, financial analysis from Rockets Wire suggests a package headlined by Jalen Green or a combination of Dillon Brooks and either Jabari Smith Jr. or Reed Sheppard as the most likely starting point for a trade. Draft equity and further matching salaries would likely be a component, as well. Phoenix is reportedly underwhelmed by the current offer, though negotiations are ongoing. In a Wednesday appearance on ESPN's Get Up, Windhorst offered this update: I think he's got Miami on there because he's attracted by the city and Pat Riley. It's certainly not the team. So, let's put them aside. Let's look at Houston and San Antonio. He would be the No. 1 offensive option on those two teams. I don't know about best player, and I don't know if that's what he's looking for at age 37. But he certainly would join those two teams and make them way more dynamic offensively. Particularly Houston, who is an elite defensive team that had difficulty getting isolation and individual scoring. He certainly believes, by looking at those two teams, that he can be a very high-level member of a contending team. So, I'm going to listen to what he says there. That's why I think, Houston especially, has got their eyebrow up. I'm not sure they're willing to pay a massive price for a 37-year-old when most of the rest of their team is in its early-to-mid 20s, but I think Houston should definitely be considered still in this race. Especially if Minnesota doesn't close. Potential trade suitors not on that preferred-destination list (such as the Timberwolves, who Windhorst identified) are reportedly not bidding aggressively without a change in the All-Star forward's stance. Because Durant's current contract expires after next season, his choice to sign (or not sign) an extension carries significant weight in these talks, since many teams won't risk surrendering significant asset capital if they might lose him as an unrestricted free agent a year later. With that in mind, it appears that could make the Rockets and Heat frontrunners for Durant's services, assuming the Suns remain committed to trading him. A deal is reportedly possible at any time. To Windhorst's point, Houston finished 52-30 and No. 2 in the Western Conference last season, while Miami went 37-45 in the East. Thus, from a purely short-term basketball perspective, the Rockets would seemingly give Durant a better opportunity to compete at the highest level over whatever remains of his prime NBA years. More: Report: Rockets have 'firm offer' to trade for Kevin Durant, but Suns are underwhelmed
