Month: July 2024

RAPPER A$AP Rocky has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm.

The US star, 35 — real name Rakim Mayers — is alleged to have pointed a gun at a former pal and fired in his direction.

Rapper A$AP Rocky arrives at the Los Angeles court where he pleaded not guilty to two counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearmCredit: The Mega Agency
The incident is said to have happened outside a Hollywood hotel in 2021.

The Los Angeles Police Department said the victim sustained a minor injury and Mayers allegedly fled the scene with two other people.

He was arrested in April of this year at LAX following a vacation in Barbados with girlfriend, Rihanna.

In court, Mayers spoke up to correct Judge Karla Kerlin’s pronunciation of his name — then pleaded not guilty to the charges.

A pre-trial date was set for March 6 and the case must be heard within 45 days of that date.

Mayers, who has two kids with pop star Rihanna, authorised his lawyers to appear on his behalf at future hearings.

The couple’s first child, RZA, was born in May 2022, while their son Riot Rose was born in August.

At the end of the hearing, Mayers wished the judge a “happy new year” before walking out of the courtroom.

Amid swirling rumors and speculation linking him to the Lakers, Blake Hinson has finally addressed the situation by committing to a two-year, two-way contract. The deal signifies a significant step forward in Hinson’s career, offering him the opportunity to showcase his skills on both the NBA and G League stages.

In his statement, Hinson expressed gratitude for the Lakers’ interest and emphasized his excitement about joining their organization. He highlighted the team’s winning tradition and the chance to learn from experienced players as factors that influenced his decision.

The two-way contract structure allows Hinson to split his time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate, providing valuable developmental opportunities while remaining connected to the NBA roster. This setup is often seen as a pathway for young players to prove themselves and potentially earn a full-time NBA roster spot in the future.

Hinson’s signing comes amidst a busy offseason for the Lakers, who are actively shaping their roster ahead of the upcoming season. His versatility and potential to contribute on both ends of the court could make him a valuable asset as the team prepares for the challenges ahead.

As Hinson begins this new chapter with the Lakers, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he adapts to the professional ranks and contributes to the team’s aspirations for success in the NBA.

Kendrick Perkins and LeBron James (Image Source: Getty Images)
LeBron James will return for his 22nd season in the league. After agreeing to a 2-year, $104 million contract, the 39-year-old will create history alongside his son, Bronny James, next season. But does that have anything to do with the Lakers winning a championship? Kendrick Perkins has his doubts.

During a recent episode of “First Take” on ESPN, Perkins discussed the re-signing of LeBron James. Despite his publicized rift with the Lakers forward, Perks did not hesitate to name LeBron the GOAT before highlighting how his and Rob Pelinka’s vision don’t intertwine. “Most importantly..he actually took the max dollars when he gave Rob Pelinka more than enough time to do something. He said he was gonna take a pay cut for Rob Pelinka to go out there and search the market,” the former Celtics‘ player said before mentioning the Lakers’ failure to rope in Klay Thompson.

.@KendrickPerkins believes the Lakers and LeBron are on "two different pages."

"Every time he steps on the floor, LeBron James is thinking about championships. Rob Pelinka is thinking about the future." pic.twitter.com/GdRnZaA6tx

— First Take (@FirstTake) July 3, 2024

“To me, this seems like they’re on two different pages,” Perkins continued. “Every single time he steps on the floor, LeBron James is thinking about championships. Rob Pelinka is thinking about the future.”

LeBron James wanted 3 players to join the Lakers, but none of them were roped in by the franchise. Despite LeBron’s desire to take a pay cut, the Lakers failed to pursue a target to improve the existing squad. But now with the improved deal, LeBron is getting called out over it.

LeBron James Called Out Over New Contract

Skip Bayless clarified his feelings on social media after the news of LeBron James’ new contract. According to the Fox analyst, taking a pay cut was never an option for LeBron. Known for his passionate hate for LBJ, Bayless didn’t pass the opportunity to comment on the situation.

“LeBron, naturally, took the max from the Lakers he can make for his age next season – about $52 million. Yet Rich Paul hilariously said LeBron might take $1 mil less so the Lakers can avoid the 2nd apron. That would be the least LeBron could do. But watch, he won’t,” Bayless posted on X (formerly known as Twitter).

LeBron, naturally, took the max from the Lakers he can make for his age next season – about $52 million. Yet Rich Paul hilariously said LeBron might take $1 mil less so the Lakers can avoid the 2nd apron. That would be the least LeBron could do. But watch, he won't.

— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) July 3, 2024

Now with his future tied for at least the 2024/25 season, LeBron’s immediate focus shifts to the upcoming Olympics. And there can be no better way to start the new season with a gold medal around his neck.

Emmanuel Acho and LeBron James (Photos via FS1 & Getty Images)

Every eye was stuck on LeBron James this offseason, eagerly waiting to see what decision he takes regarding his future. As many had predicted, the 39-year-old ultimately stayed back with the Lakers but that proved to be costly for the franchise. Following the decision, many raised questions regarding LeBron’s intentions, one of which came from ex-NFL player Emmanuel Acho.

On FS1’s “Speak,” the former linebacker claimed, “LeBron’s “primary objective” is no longer winning championships.” Justifying his statement, Acho said, “If LeBron’s primary objective was to win championships I don’t think he would be on the Lakers.”

.@EmmanuelAcho: LeBron's "primary objective" is no longer winning championships. pic.twitter.com/rTokFl5TyY

— Speak (@SpeakOnFS1) July 4, 2024

LeBron James has expressed his desire to bag one more championship title before his days on the hardwood are over. To fulfill the dream, the 20-time All-Star pushed his limits and performed outstandingly last season alongside teammate Anthony Davis. However, because of the team’s lackluster contribution, they couldn’t stand a chance against the Nuggets in the playoffs.

Both the Lakers and LeBron figured out that the only way to success was to rebuild the squad. But the franchise didn’t have enough cap space to afford the big names that LeBron wanted on the roster. So, the 4-time champion proposed to take a pay cut in his salary which could help bringing in elite players.

When the organization failed to follow the plan, LeBron signed a $104 million contract for two years with the Lakers. This made Acho believe that the superstar might not be having the championship win in mind. While others suggest that LBJ is thinking about a different strategy.

LeBron James Reportedly Eyeing Expansion Team

During his final years in the league, LeBron James is ticking the boxes on his desire list. Of the remaining dreams, Brian Windhorst disclosed that his next move could be to own the Las Vegas expansion team.

On “First Take” the ESPN Insider stated, “He wants to be the owner of the coming expansion team in Las Vegas.” Windhorst continued to add, “He wants to join up with partners to become the face of the franchise in Las Vegas.”

.@WindhorstESPN thinks LeBron, if healthy, will play at least two more seasons before eyeing NBA ownership 👀

"He wants to join up with partners to become the face of the franchise in Las Vegas." pic.twitter.com/5blPNGG7cq

— First Take (@FirstTake) July 4, 2024

Windhorst also believes that LeBron will be focused on fulfilling his mission in the following two years. However, right now, his only determination is towards the national team which is preparing to get the gold medal in the Paris Olympics.

Team USA basketball jersey (Image Source: X/@barstoolsports)
Soon, the Team USA committee will reveal the official starting lineup and overall game plan for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics. Rumors have been swirling that one of their most experienced players, LeBron James, might not participate in the Olympics this time. However, due to the Lakers’ star’s extensive experience and valuable presence on the team, there might be a change of plans.

Last week, coach Steve Kerr hinted that a solid starting five could be assembled even without the superstar from the Los Angeles Lakers. However, it looks like Team USA can’t resist his experience because making a quality Olympic roster without the 39-year-old seems challenging.

Recently a reputed source claimed, “James coming off the bench, probably won’t happen. I spoke with two USA Basketball sources and both cast serious doubt on the idea…James, the sources said, will likely play point forward for the Americans as a starter, moving Curry off the ball.”

Team USA is unlikely to bring LeBron James off the bench during the Olympics, per @joevardon

James is expected to start, play point forward, and have Steph Curry play off the ball.

“James coming off the bench, probably won’t happen. I spoke with two USA Basketball sources and… pic.twitter.com/m9WMcHXrOc

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 5, 2024

Vardon’s report stirred online confusion as many fans never expected the four-time NBA Champion to come off the bench. Some people may have thought LeBron’s time was up, but his inclusion is great news for fans. As they look forward to another Olympic gold medal, fans are ecstatic to have him leading Team USA.

Who Made Team USA Basketball Paris Olympic Men’s Roster?

As Squad USA prepares for the Paris Olympics with a dream squad lineup, they have unveiled the 2024 Summer Olympics basketball jerseys. This squad is full of NBA greats, including LeBron James in a special defensive role, and they’ll be up against some formidable opponents. There were some questions about whether the 39-year-old legend would play, but the good news is he’s officially on board.

The U.S. roster first revealed in April is still the same. The 12 players are Jayson Tatum, Devin Booker, Bam Adebayo, Anthony Davis, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Tyrese Haliburton, Joel Embiid, Kevin Durant, and Anthony Edwards.

ESPN Sources: USA Basketball is finalizing its 2024 Paris Olympics roster with Steph Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, Joel Embiid, Devin Booker, Tyrese Haliburton, Anthony Edwards, Jrue Holiday, Bam Adebayo and Anthony Davis. Team may initially keep one open spot. pic.twitter.com/kO7TREBVDK

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 15, 2024

Seven members of this squad have won gold medals in the Olympics before. Thus, the head coach assembled the greatest squad possible for the Olympics. Although there’s still a chance the roster could change, it seems unlikely with just weeks until the Opening Ceremony.

Travis Scott, Lil Baby, James Harden & Meek MIll (Image Source: IG/@michaelrubin)
It is time to forget the red carpet. The Hamptons saw a white-out this Fourth of July weekend. Millionaire entrepreneur Michael Rubin sure knows how to throw a party, and this weekend, his annual White Party became the hottest ticket in town. A-list stars like Kyle Kuzma, Klay Thompson, and NFL icon Tom Brady were among the well-known figures seen coming in their best white attire.

The most famous Hollywood A-listers usually attend Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin’s annual Fourth of July party in the Hamptons. In terms of celebrity power, this year’s invitation list was almost as impressive as that of the Met Gala. Notable NBA players such as Kevin Durant, James Harden, Klay Thompson, and Kyle Kuzma were also present at the event.

https://twitter.com/Ballislife/status/1809246380575088925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1809246380575088925%7Ctwgr%5Ef210bb099b575b965e3a5db5c06d377752eafa2d%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.totalprosports.com%2Fnba%2Fphotos-klay-thompson-and-kyle-kuzma-along-with-several-nba-players-attend-michael-rubins-star-studded-july-4-party-in-hamptons%2F

Instagram photos of the event, including Brady, Gronkowski, Stroud, and OBJ in white with Rubin, went viral soon. All the impressions of that evening quickly spread over social media, including the fancy white decor, a fun atmosphere, and famous faces mingling beneath the summer sky.

Which Celebrities Shone Bright at Michael Rubin’s Star-Studded Party? 

Many believe that Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin’s All-White 4th of July party is all about Hollywood superstars, but that’s not entirely true. A-listers from various platforms gathered for this special event, making it an early highlight of their summer.

His Hamptons mansion became an annual event on July 4, and guests, including Kim Kardashian, Megan Fox, and Machine Gun Kelly, were seen arriving like a previous tradition. However, among all of them, NFL great Tom Brady shined a lot.

To celebrate the Fourth of July, Tom Brady returned to the field for a beach football game in the Hamptons. The epic game was a prelude to Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin’s spectacular white-themed celebration. Since it fell on the same day as Brady’s mother’s birthday, the importance of the day was magnified for him.

In addition to Tom Brady, other NFL stars, such as Micah Parsons from the Cowboys, Damar Hamlin from the Bills, and Odell Beckham Jr. from the Dolphins, also made a notable impression at the star-studded event. The highly anticipated Bridgehampton meeting also included additional A-listers, such as Jake Paul and Don Lemon, who arrived at the evening.

Caitlin Clark and Michael Jordan (Photos via Getty Images)
Indiana Fever star rookie Caitlin Clark has secured a deal that puts her in league with Michael Jordan.

The former Iowa Hawkeyes point guard has partnered with basketball manufacturer Wilson to release the signature “Caitlin Clark Limitless Series” of balls, marking the first collection resulting from the deal.

Clark signed a multi-year contract with Wilson in May, joining MJ as the only signature athlete to ever sign a deal with the company.

“Made for Defying Limits,” Wilson announced via Instagram on Friday. “The first collection from Caitlin Clark and Wilson Basketball arrives 7/9.”

Check it out below:

“changed the wnba forever,” a user wrote.

“Can’t wait for this one!!!!” said another.

“I have an excited girl! This will be just in time to get for her birthday,” a third disclosed.

Caitlin Clark Is Having An Impressive Rookie Season On a personal Front

Clark is leading all WNBA rookies in points and assists this season, averaging 16.0 points and 7.1 assists. She was selected as an All-Star this week, joining Angel Reese as the only other first-year player to make the roster.

Clark, who entered the league as the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer after four seasons with Iowa, has attracted millions of eyes to WNBA basketball and is being paid very well for it, though not through her deal with the Fever.

The 22-year-old landed the most lucrative deal ever signed by a female basketball player before the start of the season, with Nike handing her a $28 million contract.

She’s likely to garner several more endorsements throughout the early stages of her career in the pros.

The Caitlin Clark-themed Wilson basketball will launch on July 9.