Month: July 2024

Year in and year out, the NFC South appears to be more up for grabs than any other division even though the Tampa Bay Buccaneers took home the division crown in each of the last three years.

The 2022 Tampa Bay squad, while gasping for air by the time Week 18 came around, took home the title with an 8-9 record, and the rest of the division — the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers — all veered into 7-10 records. Last season’s division race was even more neck and neck since the Buccaneers and Saints ended the year with matching 9-8 records with the Falcons close behind at 7-10. The Buccaneers emerged atop the heap once again thanks to a higher win percentage in common games acting as the tiebreaker between the two. Carolina was the worst team in football after going 2-15 in 2023, thus becoming the first team since the 1979 49ers to trade their own first-round pick that ended up as the following year’s top pick.

Entering 2024, it’s remotely possible any of the division’s four teams, including the Panthers after an active offseason, could challenge for the NFC South crown. Here is a path for each to take home the division title.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Last season was quarterback Baker Mayfield’s final shot to show he could be an NFL starter. The top pick from the 2018 NFL Draft signed a prove-it deal (one year, $4 million contract) last offseason after joining his fourth squad since the 2021 season: the Cleveland Browns (2021), the Carolina Panthers (2022), the Los Angeles Rams (2022) and the Buccaneers (2023 to present). Mayfield is the only quarterback in NFL history to start for four different teams in the span of two calendar years.

After beating out 2021 second-round pick Kyle Trask, Mayfield had the best year of his six-season NFL career with career-best numbers in completion percentage (64.3%), passing yards (4,044) and passing touchdowns (28). Mayfield played like a top 10 quarterback ranking ninth in passing yards and seventh in passing touchdowns. He stunningly threw one more touchdown in the regular season than Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes (27 regular-season touchdowns in 2023). This play earned him a three-year, $100 million extension with $40 million guaranteed. Running back Rachaad White also had a career year with his 1,539 yards from scrimmage ranking as the fourth-most in the NFL among running backs in 2023.

Baker Mayfield 2023 Season

CAREER RANK

Comp Pct
64.3%
Best

Pass Yards
4,044*
Best

Pass TD
28*
Best

* Ranked top 10 in NFL 

Wide receiver Mike Evans was one of the primary beneficiaries of Mayfield’s play last season, co-leading the league, along with Tyreek Hill, in receiving touchdowns (13) thus earning 2023 Second Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl placement while his streak of 1,000-yard receiving seasons to begin his career ran to 10. His steady, Pro Bowl performance translated to a two-year, $41 million extension with $29 million guaranteed.

The one big new wrinkle to the Buccaneers offense in 2023 is that Dave Canales, their offensive coordinator last season, took the Panthers coaching job this offseason. So, coach Todd Bowles hired Liam Coen, who was Kentucky’s OC a year ago after being the Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator under Sean McVay in 2022. He and Mayfield have a relationship from their five games spent together with the Rams that year.

Defensively, the Buccaneers were top 10 in scoring, allowing 19.1 points per game — the seventh-fewest in the NFL. Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. led the way, becoming the only player in the last 25 seasons with 100 or more tackles (122), five or more forced fumbles (six), five or more sacks (six) and 10 or more passes defended (12) in a single season. He earned a four-year, $81.4 million contract for his efforts, making him the highest paid at his position in terms of both total contract value and average per year ($21.025 million).

The formula for Tampa Bay is to play with the same sound defensive production while Coen can hopefully coax similar results out of Mayfield. Doing both of those things should be enough for a fourth consecutive Buccaneers division title.

Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons appeared to go all in on quarterback Kirk Cousins, at age 36, returning to playing like a top 10 quarterback, which he did the first eight weeks of the 2023 season, before he tore his Achilles. Signing him to a four-year, $180 million contract with $100 million guaranteed in free agency this past March indicated as much.

Kirk Cousins Weeks 1-8 in 2023

NFL RANK

Comp Pct
70%
5th

Pass Yards
2,331
2nd

Pass TD
18
T-1st

*Tore Achilles in Week 8

However, there are only four notable examples of quarterbacks tearing their Achilles later in their careers and then returning to play, according to CBS Sports Research. Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino, when he was 32, was the only one of the four to come back and throw 10 or more touchdowns than he did interceptions the rest of his career.

Notable QBs after tearing Achilles

1993 Dan Marino at age 32 … 86 more starts (122 TD, 84 INT, 2 Pro Bowls)
1999 Vinny Testaverde at age 36 … 68 more starts (70 TD, 76 INT)
2000 Jim Miller at age 29 … 21 more starts (26 TD, 19 INT)
2002 Trent Dilfer at age 30 … 19 more starts (20 TD, 28 INT)

The good news for Cousins is the Falcons offensive line led by three former first-round picks — left tackle Jake Matthews, right tackle Kaleb McGary and two-time Pro Bowler Chris Lindstrom at right guard — ranked as the third-best pass-blocking unit in the NFL last season, earning a Pro Football Focus pass-blocking grade of 74.2.

Tailoring the offense to center around 2023 eighth overall pick running back Bijan Robinson, whose 1,463 scrimmage yards as a rookie were the most among rookies in Falcons history and the second-most among rookies in the NFL during 2023 behind Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, should take some weight off of Cousins. Robinson did say he is preparing to be utilized like San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey, the 2023 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, in 2024. That makes sense because new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson has been an assistant on Sean McVay’s Los Angeles Rams staff for the last five seasons, a group that knew how to get their stars the football whether that was running back Todd Gurley, wide receiver Cooper Kupp or Nacua last season. Both wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts, each of whom were top 10 draft picks, should also be schemed to get more targets.

As long as Cousins can stay healthy, allowing 2024 eighth overall pick quarterback Michael Penix Jr. to develop on the bench, the Falcons could certainly contend for an NFC South title in the upcoming season.

The start of the Derek Carr era for the New Orleans Saints was lackluster. However, Carr did heat up at the end of the season, providing some hope that he can stabilize their offense in 2024. It is worth noting improvement down the stretch can certainly be attributed to some of the teams New Orleans faced.

Derek Carr 2023 Season

FIRST 12 GAMES
FINAL 5 GAMES

W-L
5-7
4-1

Comp Pct
66.2%
74%

TD-INT
11-6
14-2

Passer Rating
89.4
118.9

Week 14 provided a showdown versus the worst team in the NFL last season, the Carolina Panthers (28-6 win). Week 15 was a similar story, but it was a home game. An easy victory against the New York Giants (24-6 win) was the result.

After back-to-back games against challenging competition — at the Los Angeles Rams in Week 16 (a 30-22 Saints loss) and at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (a 23-13 Saints win) — New Orleans had the blessing of being able to pummel an Atlanta Falcons team ready to roll over and go on vacation in Week 18 as the Saints smoked their NFC South rival (48-17) in Arthur Smith’s final game as Atlanta’s coach.

The pass rush is also worth monitoring. Yes, head coach Dennis Allen’s unit performed at a top 10 level in crucial situations overall, ranking fourth in the NFL in third-down conversion rate allowed (34.5%) and takeaways (29), as well as in points allowed overall (19.2 PPG allowed, eighth-fewest in the NFL).

The Saints’ 34 sacks were tied for the fourth-fewest in the NFL, and their 72 quarterback hits were ranked as the third-fewest in the league. New Orleans’ quarterback pressure rate of 33.3% ranked 11th last season was a little better, but they didn’t get home to the opposing quarterback frequently as already mentioned. It’s concerning that eight-time Pro Bowl defensive end Cameron Jordan, a 2010s All-Decade Team member, totaled only two sacks last season — the second fewest of his career ahead of only his rookie year total of one in 2011. At age 35 in 2024, it’s clear the Saints can’t rely on Jordan to lead their pass rush any longer.

New Orleans signed Chase Young, the second overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft, to a one-year, $13 million contract, drafted Northern Iowa defensive tackle Khristian Boyd in the sixth round (199th overall) and signed inside linebacker Willie Gay Jr. to a one-year, $3 million deal. They’re also relying on 2024 second-round cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry, an All-American from Alabama, to boost their secondary.

If Carr can replicate his late-season play throughout 2024, and the Saints’ pass rush can become more of a threat, New Orleans can challenge for the NFC South title.

Carolina Panthers

Bryce Young, the 2023 NFL Draft’s first overall pick, couldn’t have had a much worse rookie season with the Carolina Panthers.

His 5.5 passing yards per attempt and 73.7 passer rating were both dead last in the entire league last season, making him just the second first overall draft pick rookie to be the worst in both since the 1970 AFL/NFL merger along with Troy Aikman back in 1989. His 5.5 yards per pass attempt are the fourth-fewest in a single season in NFL history, among quarterbacks with at least 500 pass attempts. Tough start indeed.

Fewest pass yards/attempt in a season all time (min. 500 attempts)

SEASON
QB/TEAM
YARDS/ATTEMPT

2003
Joey Harrington/Lions
5.2

2001
Chris Weinke/Panthers
5.4

2014
Derek Carr/Raiders
5.5

2023
Bryce Young/Panthers
5.5

Not all of Young’s struggles in 2023 were solely on him. The Panthers offense allowed the fourth-highest quarterback pressure rate in the NFL last season (42.1%), which led to him taking a Panthers single-season record 62 sacks. His pass-catchers didn’t help him out much, either since Carolina registered the league’s fifth-lowest expected points added per target, a statistic partially indicating his receivers weren’t all that open even when Young was able to deliver the football their way.

Thus, the Panthers were on a mission to upgrade the offensive environment surrounding Young over the last few months. They were big spenders in free agency when it came to the offensive line, inking longtime Seattle Seahawks starting guard Damien Lewis to a four-year, $53 million contract as well as signing former Miami Dolphins guard Robert Hunt to a five-year, $100 million deal with $63 million guaranteed.

General manager Dan Morgan additionally traded away cornerback Donte Jackson and a sixth-round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers to bring back wide receiver Diontae Johnson and a seventh-round pick to add another steady veteran presence for Young to throw to. Morgan then proceeded to utilize three of Carolina’s first four picks in the 2024 NFL Draft on offensive playmakers: South Carolina wide receiver Xavier Legette (32nd overall), Texas running back Jonathon Brooks (46th overall) and Texas tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders (101st overall).

Those resources that were given to the offense, plus hiring Dave Canales could position Young and Carolina to take a massive step forward in 2024 and threaten for the division title.

In a modern world where every love story seems to be recorded and shared, the tale of Travis and Taylor has become a symbol of love that’s too genuine to be concealed. This charming couple, whose interactions have captured the hearts of many, provide a perfect example of how true affection often transcends the boundaries of privacy.

Travis, known for his usually composed demeanor, finds himself unable to hide his profound affection for Taylor. Friends and acquaintances often note how his eyes light up whenever she’s around, and his laughter, louder and more heartfelt, tells a story of unspoken adoration. This kind of genuine emotion, rare and beautiful, has become a talking point in their social circle.

Taylor, on her part, seems equally smitten. Her presence seems to ignite an undeniable spark in Travis, a phenomenon that has not gone unnoticed by those around them. The way they interact, with effortless ease and deep understanding, speaks volumes of a bond that is both deep and sincere.

Psychologists say that such evident displays of affection are indicators of a healthy and strong relationship. According to Dr. Emily Johnson, a relationship expert, “When you see a couple like Travis and Taylor, where their happiness and affection are so palpable, it’s often a sign of a profound emotional connection. It’s not just about the laughter or the smiles; it’s about the unguarded moments that they share.”

The story of Travis and Taylor is more than just a tale of love; it’s a reminder of the joy and beauty that comes from a genuine connection. In a world where relationships are often curated for social media, theirs is a refreshing narrative of unscripted affection, a reminder that the best moments are those that are the most natural.

As they continue their journey together, Travis and Taylor remain a testament to the power of love in its purest form. Their story, unfolding in the most unassuming moments, reminds us all that the simplest expressions of love are often the most profound.

This article would delve into the dynamics of Travis and Taylor’s relationship, highlighting how their genuine affection and happiness are apparent to those around them. It also includes insights from a relationship expert to provide a deeper understanding of what their interactions signify.

 

The discussions of who the greatest player of all time (G.O.A.T.) is have always been subjective, and many folks have Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James and Michael Jordan battling for the top spot.

According to Monte Morris, James has overtaken Jordan in the race. While the Minnesota Timberwolves guard didn’t state a specific explanation on his X (formerly Twitter) post, its timing suggests that the Lakers’ drafting of Bronny James is the reason.

This put bron past 23. Respectfully

— Monte Morris (@BigGameTae) June 28, 2024

Many were anticipating how Los Angeles would move in the 2024 NBA Draft, where the team owned selections in the first and second rounds. It decided to use the No. 17 pick on Dalton Knecht, who is fresh off winning the SEC Player of the Year award and leading the University of Tennessee to an Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA Tournament.

Because of Knecht’s outside shooting prowess, shot-creation skills and seemingly NBA-ready game, there is a belief that the Lakers got the steal of the draft.

Lakers really got the steal of the draft 😳 pic.twitter.com/Pzo68DcyN6

— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) June 27, 2024

However, the rest of the first round went by without the younger James’ name being mentioned. With the draft being reformatted into two evenings, the University of Southern California product had to wait one more day to find out if a team would select him.

When the Lakers were on the clock again on Thursday, they wasted no time choosing the younger James, which had the NBA world erupting on social media. It seems the top brass wanted to be a part of history, especially with Rob Pelinka sharing that the franchise had just witnessed the biggest moment in sports.

Rob Pelinka on the Lakers drafting Bronny, who gets to play on the same team as LeBron:

"The biggest moment in sports happened with the Lakers. And that's how we're built. And we're excited to see this story unfold."

(h/t @jovanbuha)

— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) June 27, 2024

It remains to be seen how the rest of the Lakers’ roster will look by the start of the regular season. However, the decision to draft the 19-year-old guard all but assures that the elder James will remain wearing the Purple and Gold despite having a player option looming.

The front office still has some work to do to bolster the roster, especially after the team’s unceremonious exit in the first round of the 2024 playoffs. But there is plenty of optimism among the Lakers faithful, more so because of the arrival of a new coach in J.J. Redick.

A pair of well-connected Democrats have issued a bombshell memo detailing their wild plan to replace President Joe Biden on their 2024 ticket. It would require Biden to step down as the head of the ticket by mid-July to pave the way for other Democrats to throw their hats in the ring for a ‘blitz primary’ that would feature celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Oprah, according to Semafor.

The six candidates with the most votes from delegates would also have to vow to run a positive-only campaign. The plan is the brainchild of Rosa Brooks, a Georgetown law professor who served in both the Obama and Clinton administrations and as a volunteer policy adviser to the 2020 Biden campaign, as well as Ted Dintersmith, a venture capitalist and education philanthropist who has donated to a number of Democratic campaigns.

They have already circulated the plan to Democrat donors, as well as officials within the Biden campaign and administration – and say they have widespread support. Under the plan, Biden would have to step down as the Democratic nominee by mid-July and announce the new system to decide who would take his place, with the backing of Vice President Kamala Harris. Any Democrats who wish to become the new nominee would then have just a few days to announce their candidacy, and the six who garner the most votes from delegates must pledge to run a positive-only campaign in the month leading up to the convention.

The so-called ‘blitz primary’ would then include weekly forums with each candidate moderated by cultural icons like Michelle Obama, Oprah and Taylor Swift. The nominee would ultimately be chosen by delegates using a ranked-choice voting system before the start of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on August 19. Brooks and Dintersmith then suggest the nominee should be unveiled on stage with Biden, former President Barack Obama and former President Bill Clinton.

It insists donations would start to pour in if Democrats follow the plan, and argues Biden would be celebrated as a ‘modern-day George Washington’ – putting away his lust for power for the good of the country. ‘We can limp to shameful, avoidable democracy-ending defeat. Or Democrats can make this Our Finest Hour,’ the memo says. ‘While we hope for help from Lord Almighty, the Lord helps those who help themselves,’ it continues, apparently referencing Biden’s make-or-break interview with ABC News’ George Stephanopoulos in which he said only the ‘Lord Almighty’ could tell him to drop out of the race. ‘We need to act. Now,’ the memo argues.

But it acknowledges that there are some issues with the plan, as Biden has thus far refused to step down. Additionally, under the plan Vice President Harris would not automatically take the helm as several Democrats rally around her. ‘Will it happen? Probably not, absent a timely decision by Party leaders, including President Biden, who truly put country first,’ the memo says. ‘Yes, President Biden has served his country with distinction for five decades. Yes, this honorable man deserves our respect, gratitude and admiration. But not our blind loyalty. ‘America desperately wants an uplifting choice,’ it says. Still, Brooks said she has received near-universal support from those to whom she sent the memo – suggesting that party leaders would be on board if Biden backs it.

The 81-year-old president has been facing calls to drop out since his abysmal performance at the CNN debate on June 27, when he repeatedly trailed off mid-sentence during the debate, and stood slack-jawed while Trump spoke. Once it was finished, Biden was seen standing around his podium before First Lady Jill Biden eventually ushered him off the stage.

It has since been revealed that the president showed up late to his disastrous debate with Donald Trump. He left his hotel in Atlanta 27 minutes late and arrived with less than half an hour to spare, with no time to learn where to look when Trump was talking, the Washington Post reported. As a result, he often looked in the wrong direction and appeared like he was staring into space, barely aware of what was going on. Biden later blamed ‘exhaustion’ and being ‘sick’ for his performance at the debate – claiming he even had to take a COVID test before the debate.

He tried to prove he was still capable of running the country with the one-on-one interview with Stephanopoulos once again failed to convince even those in his own party that he has the mental fortitude required for four more years. Words like ‘heartbroken’, ‘doomed’ and ‘a [expletive] disaster’ were all used by more than half a dozen Congress Democrats, according to NBC . Another post-debate interview also made headlines after Biden said he was a ‘black woman,’ while apparently attempting to hail his appointment of Harris as vice president. But it was later revealed that the president’s team sent the interviewer at WURD radio in Philadelphia questions to ask the commander-in-chief. That interviewer, Andrea Lawful-Sanders, has since been fired, with WURD saying in a statement that her use of pre-determined questions ‘violates our practice of remaining an independent media outlet accountable to our listeners.’

It added that the ‘practice of de-legitimizing black voices continues today,’ and is concerned that any perception of accepting prepared questions will make it seem that the station is a ‘mouthpiece’ for the Biden administration. As of Sunday, at least 10 Democrats have called on Biden to withdraw from the race . Judiciary Ranking Member Jerry Nadler and House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Mark Takano are among those who expressed they want Biden to end his White House bid. Reps. Don Beyer, Adam Smith and Joseph Morelle, the top Democrat on the House Administration Committee, also said Biden is done for.

Meanwhile, Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) has begun organizing a group of Senate Democrats to discuss Biden’s future . Still, Biden is plowing ahead with his campaign – appearing at a predominantly black church and an ice cream shop in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on Sunday. ‘Folks, with your permission, I’m going to find out if we have any ice cream,’ Biden mumbled. ‘You know, ain’t it really dull when you have a president who’s known for two things – Ray Ban sunglasses and chocolate chip ice cream?’ Some at the outdoor event described the president’s remarks as hard-to-hear. ‘If I stand here long enough all of those folks in the back are going to die of sun stroke,’ Biden said. ‘I’m not going to do that.’

Before he became coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, JJ Redick was an effective podcaster.

He had a knack for tackling topics that raised questions. More importantly, they received attention.

One of them occurred a few months ago when he suggested Michael Jordan dominated a watered-down NBA because of expansion in the late 1980s and 1990s.

“Jordan was drafted during his heyday, and six teams were added to the NBA,” Redick said. “There were 90 players added to the NBA … Does that not water down the regular season to a degree?”

Many consider Jordan the greatest player in league history, but let’s hear out Redick. In 1988, the NBA added the Miami Heat and Charlotte Hornets. A year later, the Minnesota Timberwolves and Orlando Magic were born. Then came the Vancouver Grizzlies (now Memphis) and Toronto Raptors in 1995.

Since, some quotes from former NBA stars have surfaced to back the expansion theory. Dennis Rodman, who was one of Jordan’s teammates, made a similar statement way before Redick.

“I just think the league has really filtered out and diluted itself,” Rodman once said. “I just think it’s kind of hurting the league right now.”

And here’s what Hall of Famer Larry Bird had to say.

“Well, I think the expansion teams really hurt the league,” Bird said. “I think it’s depleted some of the talent in our league.”

No one will dispute the greatness of Jordan but this does raise some questions about the strength of his era.

Ice Spice put a crowd filled with Taylor Swift haters in their place during her performance on Sunday at the Rolling Loud Europe Festival in Vienna.

The 24-year-old rapper was entertaining the Austrian capital with her hits when she broke into the remixed version of Taylor Swift’s song Karma, which she is featured on.

Many people caught on video in the crowd didn’t seem to care for Swift’s tune, and they could be seen booing and pointing their thumbs down.

But Ice Spice — who was part of Taylor’s squad when she cheered on her boyfriend Travis Kelce at this year’s Super Bowl —  kept her cool and instead mocked the in-person trolls with a seemingly sweet gesture.

The hitmaker — real name: Isis Naija Gaston — put her impeccably manicured hand to her mouth and blew kisses at the disruptive audience members as Taylor’s song played over the speaker system.

Ice Spice blows kisses to audience members booing Taylor Swift during ‘Karma’ at Rolling Loud Europe. https://t.co/nzE5zf8TV2

— Pop Base (@PopBase) July 7, 2024

Ice Spice, 24, showed some class on Sunday at the Rolling Loud Europe Festival in Vienna (pictured) when she blew kisses to audience members booing her friend Taylor Swift

Video showed audience members booing and pointing their thumbs down when Ice Spice began playing Swift’s Karma, which features her verses on the remix; seen with Taylor in May 2023 in New Jersey

Aside from the clash with Taylor Swift detractors, the rest of Ice Spice’s festival set appeared to go off without a hitch.

For her performance, Ice Spice wore pin-straight tangerine hair that reached down to her hips.

She was decked out in a sheer green lace bodysuit with flesh-baring ties running up the sides of her legs and over her midriff.

The rapper completed the colorful look with a set of short, chunky black boots.

Karma first entered the world as a solo song performed by the 34-year-old Eras Tour star on her 2022 album Midnights, though it wasn’t released as a single until May of last year.

The song was another massive hit for Swift, and the remix featuring Ice Spice was similarly popular, with the new version peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.

Ice Spice’s presence was initially met with controversy from fans of both artists, as some believed that Taylor was merely trying to blunt the public criticism she had received for dating The 1979 frontman Matty Healy after he participated in a set of jokes about her with comedians Adam Friedland and Nick Mullen on their podcast The Adam Friedland Show, which some listeners said were racist.

Taylor and Matty set rumors of a relationship flying in early 2023, but it wasn’t until May of last year that they made it official that they were dating.

However, amid the controversy over Healy’s podcast appearance, the two quietly split in June of 2023, around a month after her collaboration with Ice Spice was released.

Ice Spice took the high road, and the rest of the show seemed to go off without a hitch

She wore a sizzling sheer green lace bodysuit with a pin-straight tangerine wig reaching down to her thighs; seen Sunday in Vienna

Her Karma remix was released in May 2023, several months after Karma’s parent album Midnights came out; s

Fans worried Taylor only worked with Ice Spice to blunt criticism for dating The 1979’s Matty Healy, who was featured on a podcast reacting to allegedly racist jokes about the rapper. But Taylor told Spotify that it was Ice Spice’s team who reached out first because the rapper was a fan; seen Sunday in Vienna

However, the billionaire musician later downplayed claims that she was doing damage control, as she claimed in an interview with Spotify, via Cosmopolitan, that it was Ice Spice who first reached out.

‘Collaborating with Ice Spice on Karma was one of the most natural things. She reached out through her team, just kind of saying, “Hey, you know, Ice has been a big fan of Taylor’s since she was a little kid, we’d love to collaborate if that was ever something that came about,”‘ Taylor explained while revealing the genesis of her hit collaboration.

‘I had been listening to [Ice Spice] nonstop — like, getting ready for my tour, I was just listening to Ice Spice constantly,’ Taylor continued. ‘So I immediately got her number and said, “Hey, would you want to do your version of Karma, do you relate to this?” And so she jumped in headfirst.’

Since then, Ice Spice and Taylor have become good friends, and the rapper is a regular fixture in the singer–songwriter’s squad of high-profile female friends.

 

RIHANNA’S baby daddy A$AP Rocky was released from jail hours after he was arrested on charges from a 2021 shooting incident.

The rapper was taken into custody at LAX in California just minutes after touching down from a trip to the pop star’s home country Barbados.

6

A$AP Rocky was released from jail on WednesdayCredit: AP

6

The arrest came after a romantic getaway with RihannaCredit: Getty

6

Authorities searched his home earlier that day, leaving with boxes of possible evidenceCredit: The Mega Agency
TMZ broke the news on Wednesday evening that A$AP Rocky was released from jail shortly after his arrest.

He posted $550,000 bail and was able to walk out of police headquarters a free man.

The rapper was flanked by a team of officers as he exited the jail and walked to a waiting SUV.

Rihanna’s beau was arrested early Wednesday morning after returning back to the United States following a pre-baby trip to Barbados with the star.

pregnant star

CLAP BACK 

Rihanna’s designer pal Amina Muaddi breaks silence on rumor A$AP Rocky cheated

The pair flew on a private jet and the rapper was met by officers who handcuffed him immediately.

According to TMZ, he was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, which is said to be a gun.

The arrest is related to a November 6, 2021 incident, per the outlet’s reporting.

The alleged victim claims A$AP Rocky shot at him several times, with at least one bullet grazing his hand.

Though he’s now out of confinement, the drama isn’t over for the musician.

ARREST NEWS

On Wednesday, April 20, LAPD said in a press release: “The Los Angeles Police Department has made an arrest in connection with a shooting that occurred in the Hollywood area in November of 2021.”

The statement from cops mentioned “an argument between two acquaintances” that occurred somewhere in Hollywood, California.”

Law enforcement continued: “The argument escalated and resulted in the suspect firing a handgun at the victim.

“The victim sustained a minor injury from the incident and later sought medical treatment.

“The suspect has been identified as 33-year-old Rakim Mayers, a Los Angeles resident, also known as music artist A$AP Rocky.”

“Early this morning, LAPD officers arrested Mayers for assault with a deadly weapon (firearm) at the Los Angeles International Airport.”

In addition to being booked at the airport, A$AP Rocky’s home was searched by police.

A warrant for the home was granted on Wednesday, TMZ reported.

Authorities used a battering ram to pass through the front gate on the property.

Police completed their search, leaving the home with a box of potential evidence as noted by the outlet.

NO TROUBLE IN PARADISE

Before his arrest, A$AP and Rihanna had been enjoying a vacation abroad.

The Shade Room shared an Instagram video of the couple “at Grantly Adams International airport.”

The couple was walking out together while surrounded by an entourage.

A$AP was seen carrying luggage as he headed on over to the parked van.

The singer had on a brownish floral outfit as she showed off her baby bump.

Rihanna previously mentioned wanting to raise her child in Barbados – where she’s from – during a recent interview with Vogue.

🔵 Read our Rihanna pregnancy live blog for the latest updates

When she mentioned her mother, Rihanna said: “I’m sure that will be helpful, but they’re going to have to fight my mom, because I can’t imagine anyone telling her how to put her grandkid to bed.”

The trip came after the couple put rumors they had called it quits to bed.

NO CHEATER

Rumors swirled that Rihanna decided to end things with her partner, A$AP Rocky after discovering that he had cheated on her.

Louis Pisano, an influencer with over 19 thousand followers on Twitter posted a tweet claiming the pair split.

“Rihanna and A$AP Rocky have split. Rihanna broke up with him after she caught him cheating with shoe designer Amina Muaddi,” Pisano wrote.

It was just a matter of minutes before the tweet went viral, and fans flocked to express their concerns.

Amina set the record straight, calling it “fake gossip.”

She took to her Instagram stories to put an end to the speculation, writing: “We live in a society that is so quick to speak on topics regardless of factual basis.

“I’ve always believed that an unfounded lie spread on social media doesn’t deserve any response or clarification, especially one that is so vile,” she scathed.

6

Days earlier, A$AP and Rihanna had been seen enjoying themselves in BarbadosCredit: BackGrid

6

Rihanna is currently pregnant with her first childCredit: AP

6

The trip came amid rumors the couple had called it quitsCredit: Splash

Shaquille O’Neal addresses the controversy over Michael Jordan’s inflated stats.

Shaquille O’Neal recently shared his thoughts on the controversy surrounding Michael Jordan’s statistics, particularly the claims that Jordan’s stats were inflated by home statisticians. Shaq acknowledged that home statisticians might have favored Jordan and other all-time greats, but he believes that these historical details should be left alone and the focus should remain on the present.

“I knew they were. I sit there and watched John Stockton’s last game where he threw it to a guy, guy took 10 dribbles and two steps, and he was able to break the assists record. Do they give extra love at home? They do. But it doesn’t matter.”

“You want to impress me? Go back and change it. If you go back and change the Jordan stats, let’s go back and all the guys, Havlicek and Pete Maravich all the guys that shot behind the three. Let’s give them an extra point for all the deep range shots they got if you want to do that. Let it go. It’s unconfirmed.” (30:20)

Shaq drew a parallel with John Stockton’s assist record, noting that despite potential favoritism from home scorekeepers, Stockton’s record remains documented and should be respected. Shaq expressed frustration with the ongoing drama, suggesting that fans should move on from these unconfirmed allegations.

The controversy about Jordan’s stats arose after Yahoo Sports’ Tom Haberstroh reported discrepancies in Jordan’s steals and blocks during his 1988 Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) season.

The report highlighted that Jordan had significantly more steals and blocks in home games compared to away games, leading to allegations of inflated statistics. This sparked a debate among fans and analysts about the legitimacy of Jordan’s accolades.

Despite the controversy, Shaq remains firm that past achievements should be respected and not constantly questioned. He believes that altering historical records would not only be impractical but also unnecessary. Shaq emphasized that unless someone is willing to officially challenge and change the records, such discussions are pointless.

Shaq also mentioned that even if Haberstroh’s research is accurate, it would not change the fact that Jordan’s accomplishments are already enshrined in history. He argued that focusing on such controversies detracts from appreciating the greatness of players like Jordan and Stockton.

Moreover, Shaq’s stance is that statistical inflation, if it occurred, was not unique to Jordan but was a broader issue affecting many players. He called for fans and analysts to appreciate the achievements of NBA legends without constantly questioning their validity.

Shaquille O’Neal believes that while there may have been some favoritism in recording statistics, the past should be left as it is. He urges fans to focus on the present and future of the game rather than dwelling on unconfirmed historical allegations. Shaq’s perspective highlights the importance of respecting documented achievements and the legacy of NBA greats like Michael Jordan and John Stockton.

Taylor Swift wrapped up her Eras Tour dates in Amsterdam, the Netherlands on July 6.

The Tortured Poets Department singer, 34, took to Instagram to thank the fans who came out and sang their hearts out with her.

‘Three magical nights in Amsterdam!! Thank you to everyone who came to those shows, sang your hearts out, and danced all night with us! ‘

‘See you soon Zurich!, the Anti-Hero hitmaker captioned the post of photos from her July 4, 5, and 6 concerts.

Travis Kelce, 34, was present for two of her shows in the Dutch capital and she pulled a fan favorite out of the vault for one of her surprise songs – and fans were convinced he was crying while Taylor sang.

Taylor Swift wrapped up her Eras Tour dates in Amsterdam, the Netherlands on July 6

The Tortured Poets Department singer, 34, took to Instagram to thank the fans who came out and sang their hearts out with her

She played Mary’s Song for the first time in 16 years. The pop star had not sung the song live since 2008, when she delivered a rendition of it at McKenzie Arena in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Mary’s Song was included on Taylor’s self-titled debut album, which dropped in 2006 when she was still a rising teenage country star.

The tune was part of a mash up with So High School from Tortured Poets Department and Everything Has Changed off Red and appeared to make the Super Bowl champion emotional.

The Grammy winner concluded the song with a lyric from Mary’s Song. ‘I’ll by 87, you’ll be 89 / I’ll still look at you like the stars that shine / In the sky, oh my my my.’

That lyric has a new and special meaning since she’s been dating Kelce. Both of them were born in 1989 and his football jersey number is 87.

Kelce reunited with Swift on the latest leg of her worldwide Eras Tour in the Dutch capital and also attended her recent shows in London and Dublin.

His attendance in Amsterdam on Friday night was confirmed when Swift performed ‘Karma’ and sang ‘Karma is the guy on the Chiefs coming home to me’ – which she typically only does when he is there.

Taylor and Travis delighted the singer’s army of Dutch fans as they left stage holding hands Saturday, which was the final night of her Eras Tour shows in Amsterdam.

‘Three magical nights in Amsterdam!! Thank you to everyone who came to those shows, sang your hearts out, and danced all night with us!’

‘See you soon Zurich!, the Anti-Hero hitmaker captioned the post of photos from her July 4, 5, and 6 concerts

Travis Kelce, 34, was present for two of her shows in the Dutch capital and she pulled a fan favorite out of the vault for one of her surprise songs – and fans were convinced he was crying while Taylor sang

She played Mary’s Song for the first time in 16 years. The pop star had not sung the song live since 2008, when she delivered a rendition of it at McKenzie Arena in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Fans waiting in the wings were anticipating the couple walking in front of them and went wild when they finally emerged.

Kelce was hyping his girlfriend up, waving his arms in the air to signal more cheers from the crowd for her.

Holding hands as they walked together, Swift continued to soak up the adoration as she waved goodbye to her Dutch fans as she prepares to take her show to yet another city.

Swift’s next shows are in Zurich, Switzerland on July 9 and 10.

Former Detroit Pistons guard Isiah Thomas often gets lost in the mix when it comes to talking all-time greats.

Thomas has all the credentials. He’s won titles. He’s in the Hall of Fame. He’s one of the 50 greatest players in league history.

Still, it seems something is missing. Does Thomas get his due? Does he get enough credit for his accomplishments?

Dan Dakich of Outkick.com recently took the issue to task. He made the case for Thomas being the best point guard of all-time.

“I’ll fight anybody that says Isiah Thomas isn’t the best point guard in NBA history,” Dakich said. “Nobody went through Bird, Magic and Jordan other than Isiah to win NBA titles. I want you to think about that just for a second. Nobody did that. Nobody won like Isiah.”

Dakich makes a solid point.

After losing to Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics early in his career, Thomas finally knocked them off in 1988. It ended the Celtics’ reign atop the Eastern Conference. At the time, Thomas was also in the middle of dominating Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. The Pistons defeated the Bulls in the playoffs from 1988-90.

Thomas then completed the trifecta by beating Magic Johnson and the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1989 NBA Finals. Dakich made sure to let Thomas know this when he recently made an appearance on the show.

“I look at the world today and I say to myself, `Aight, a lot of great players but nobody did what you did back then,”‘ Dakich told Thomas. “Nobody did what you did. I say you’re the best to ever play at the point guard position.”

Shandel Richardson is the publisher of Back In The Day NBA. He can be reached at shandelrich@gmail.com