Stephen Curry is the NBA’s greatest shooter, and it’s often said that he changed the game. This is true, but Curry wasn’t the first player to change how NBA players played.

In fact, if it wasn’t for Stanford’s Hank Luisetti, Curry may have never had the chance to change the game. This was because Luisetti is credited as the player who invented what we know to be the jump shot.

“We made a trip to New York, played in Madison Square Garden and revolutionized the game,” Walter Vincenti, Stanford’s 1936 basketball team manager, said. “He [Luisetti] was unusual in his day. But people soon began to imitate him, and basketball became a more wide-open game.”

Vincenti was speaking about how, when all the other players were shooting either hook shots or the standard two-handed set shot, Luisetti was shooting the game’s first jump shots.

Now, there’s some debate about whether Luisetti actually created the jump shot. A player named John Miller Cooper has also been credited as the inventor of the jump shot.

Even if Luisetti did not create what we know as the jump shot, he was the one who made it popular. Just like Stephen Curry did not invent the three-point shot, but he sure did popularize it.

Luisetti continued to use his jump shot, which was a running jump shot, and this would change the game forever, like how Curry’s three-point shot has changed the game today. The reason Luisetti’s jump shot was such a game-changer was because it sped up the game.

The game was slow, as players took the time to get into their set shots. The jump shot was quicker and more fluid. This led to a fast pace style of basketball that not only saw bigger scores but it was more exciting, at least to most.

There were some people who didn’t approve of Luisetti’s shooting style and believed it was bad for the game. In a game between Stanford and No. 1-ranked Long Island University, a reporter wrote a piece about Luisetti’s shooting and it wasn’t to praise it.

“Some of his shots would have been deemed foolhardy if attempted by another player,” the reporter wrote.

Still, Luisetti and his new form of shooting, which his teammates copied, set out to do the unthinkable. They were going to beat the top-seeded Long Island team.

The game was played at Madison Square Garden, and Long Island entered the game on a 43-game winning streak. The arena was packed as most wanted to watch the best team, Long Island, play.

According to Stanford basketball radio analyst John Platz, he believed fans should be packing the stadium to watch Luisetti play.

“He’s certainly known here [Stanford],” Platz said. “Why isn’t he more revered?”

As for the game between Stanford and Long Island, Luisetti scored 15 points and led Stanford to a 45-31 victory over Long Island. This ended Long Island’s long win streak and gave the world its first glimpse at Luisetti and his jump shot.

Stephen Curry Changed The Game
Stephen Curry was drafted into the NBA in 2009. At that time, NBA teams averaged 18.1 three-point attempts per game. As of the 2022-23 season, the league average was 34.2 per game.

Curry is the main reason for the change because not only did she start attempting a lot per game, he was making them at a high rate. As a rookie, Curry attempted 4.8 threes per game.

In Curry’s historic 2015-16 season, where he was named the first-ever unanimous MVP, Curry attempted 11.2 threes while making 5.1 threes per game. This type of shooting from Curry led to every team changing their game plans.

Today, centers routinely step out and fire up three-pointers. This is encouraged by the coaching staff. In the 1990s, if a center shot a three, he’d likely be pulled from the game.

Yes, things have changed. First, it was Hank Luisetti changing the game with his jump shot. More recently, Stephen Curry changed the game with his incredible three-point shooting.

The game has constantly evolved, and it’ll continue to happen. This is what keeps the game of basketball exciting and fresh.

 

While the NBA is still on hold due to the coronavirus, the college basketball season is over. The NCAA season was cut short prior to the iconic 68-team tournament.

With no March Madness in 2020, Warriors Wire is highlighting worthy performances from current members on the Golden State squad. Draymond Green, Jordan Poole and Eric Paschall all recorded significant achievements in March. However, one Warrior was apart of an unforgettable upset run through the big dance.

Buy Warriors Tickets

Before he was splashing three-pointers on his way the Most Valuable Player award, Stephen Curry was a key piece for the 10th seeded Davidson Wildcats.

March 28, 2008

Behind a pair of jaw-dropping shooting displays against Gonzaga and Georgetown, Curry’s wildcats traveled to Fox Field in Detroit for the Sweet 16.

Davidson met up with the third-seeded Wisconsin Badgers in the Midwest Regional Final. Bo Ryan’s 30-5 Badgers boasted a rotation with three All-Big Ten players. Wisconsin’s guard Joe Krabenhoff was named to the Big-Ten All-Defensive Team. After two 15-point victories, the Badgers coasted into the Sweet 16.

No matter the accolades, it wasn’t enough to slow down Curry. The second-team All-American toasted the defensive combo of Krabenhoff and Michael Flowers for 33 of Davidson’s 73 points en route to the Elite Eight.

The future lottery pick drilled six shots from beyond the arc while adding four assists, four steals and three rebounds. Curry’s 33 in the Sweet 16 was his fourth straight 30-point effort in the NCAA Tournament.

Watch highlights from Curry’s dazzling performance in the Sweet 16 via YouTube:

However, Curry’s magical tournament run ended two days later in the Elite Eight to the future champion Kansas Jayhawks.

 

Amid some coпtroversies aпd pressυres ahead of the Sυper Bowl battle, the Kaпsas City Chiefs are eпjoyiпg a bit of light air. The Chiefs defeпsive liпebacker, Drυe Traпqυill , receпtly shared a small chat with the head coach Aпdy Reid ahead of the big game.

The text iп discυssioп of Traпqυill was aп attempt by Reid to lυre the former Los Aпgeles Chargers LB ahead of the 2023 seasoп. The Chiefs head coach promised a Sυper Bowl to the player while talkiпg to him oп text messages.

Traпqυill shared a short message oп X writteп by the Chiefs head coach Aпdy Reid. The message was aп example of how the Chiefs tried to coax him after the player hit the free ageпcy. The LB shared a screeпshot of the message.
If yoυ пeed to talk my phoпe is oп the riпg. Till theп see Red aпd thiпk Sυper Bowls Reid wrote to Traпqυill
The Chiefs desperately пeeded a liпebacker this seasoп after the departυre of Orlaпdo Browп Jr. The defeпse пeeded a liпebacker to maiпtaiп the balaпce aпd Traпqυill was υпder their radar.

The liпebacker had foυr seasoпs at the Los Aпgeles Chargers. However, they oпly appeared iп the playoffs oпly oпce iп that period. No woпder Traпqυill was пot satisfied with the team’s performaпce, aпd was oп board with Reid’s big game promise.

Drυe Traпqυill was shocked to see that the Chargers cυt him off before joiпiпg Chiefs

Before joiпiпg the heavyweights of the leagυe cυrreпtly, Traпqυill was iп a dicey sitυatioп. The LB did пot expect the Chargers, the team that picked him iп 2019 NFL Draft woυld cυt him off. Speakiпg to the Ross Tυcker podcast iп May 2023, the LB shared that he was a bit sυrprised to see that he was sυbjected to the cυt off.

Traпqυill was a little sυrprised the Chargers didп’t waпt to briпg me back. The LB said,
There were people iп the bυildiпg that really waпted me back — aпd there were a few people who waпted to move oп. Bυsiпess is bυsiпess, bυt wheп yoυ give foυr years so hard to aп orgaпizatioп aпd it doesп’t feel reciprocated, that’s hard.
However, the LB appreciated how the Chiefs approached him. They were adamaпt aboυt gettiпg the LB at aпy cost. Heпce, they lυred the LB with a Sυper Bowl dream. Aпd gυess what, the Chiefs made it to the big eveпt, aпd if sυccessfυl, will be oпly the first team to wiп the coveted Lombardi trophy iп coпsecυtive years, after New Eпglaпd Patriots did iп the 2004 seasoп

Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Antetokounmpo, Doncic and Durant lead the NBA jersey sales

The NBA’s All-Star game is quickly approaching.

This players lead the NBA jersey sales in the 2022-2023 NBA season.LAPRESSE

This Friday, the NBA and NBA Players Association announced jointly the merchandise and jersey sales leaders for the first half of the NBA 2022-2023 season, based on NBAStore.com numbers.

Stephen Curry is once again the owner of the top jersey sold around the league, taking back the premium spot for the first time since the 2017-2018 season.

He’s followed by LeBron James in second spot, Giannis Antetokounmpo in third, Luka Doncic in fourth and Kevin Durant completing the Top-5 jersey sales leaders this season.

The Los Angeles Lakers are the NBA team that sells the most merchandise

The Los Angeles Lakers continue to be the franchise that sales the most team merchandise according also to the NBA and NBAStore.com.

They’re followed by the Golden State Warriors in second, then the Boston Celtics in third, with the Milwaukee Bucks landing the fourth spot and the Chicago Bulls in fifth place.

In a surprising turn of events, renowned sports commentator Skip Bayless has publicly acknowledged the exceptional talent of Luka Doncic on his show, Undisputed. This recognition comes as a significant departure from Bayless’ previous critiques of the young Slovenian star.

Bayless, known for his outspoken and often controversial opinions, has historically been critical of Doncic’s game. However, his recent acknowledgment of Doncic’s abilities marks a notable shift in his perspective, signaling a newfound appreciation for the Dallas Mavericks’ standout player.

The recognition from Bayless is likely to resonate with fans and analysts alike, as it reflects a growing consensus around Doncic’s impact and skill on the court. This acknowledgment may also serve as a validation of Doncic’s continued growth and success in the NBA.

As Doncic continues to impress both fans and critics with his performances, Bayless’ praise adds another layer to the ongoing narrative surrounding the young star’s rise to prominence in the league.

During an interview on the Arsenio Hall show in 1990, basketball legend Michael Jordan shared his thoughts on some of the dirtiest players in the NBA. When asked about the names that come to his mind, Jordan pointed out Bill Laimbeer and Larry Bird.

However, Jordan made a distinction between the two players when it came to their style of play. He acknowledged that both Laimbeer and Bird were known for their physicality on the court, but he believed Bird played a cleaner game compared to Laimbeer. Jordan explained that Bird’s aggressive approach didn’t involve dirty tactics, whereas Laimbeer had a reputation for using more questionable methods to gain an advantage.

Jordan’s opinion provides insight into the differences in playing styles among NBA players and highlights the varying degrees of physicality and sportsmanship within the league.

Overall, Jordan’s remarks offer a glimpse into the conversations and perceptions surrounding the NBA during that era, shedding light on players who were noted for their aggressive play, but with varying degrees of fairness.

Michael Jordan, via Arsenio Hall Show

BREAKING: Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Reacts Intensely to the Controversial Kadarius Toney Scandal

The Kansas City Chiefs are poised for their fourth Super Bowl appearance in five years after securing victory in the AFC Championship against the Baltimore Ravens. Despite the team’s apparent momentum, a recent controversy involving wide receiver Kadarius Toney has cast a shadow over their Super Bowl journey.

Explosive Claims by Toney

The turmoil ignited when Kadarius Toney took to Instagram Live, airing grievances and making bold accusations against the Chiefs organization. He vehemently asserted that the team had manipulated his injury status, expressing profound disillusionment with the franchise and declaring his severed ties with the team.

Andy Reid’s Counter

In response to Toney’s outburst, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confronted the media, addressing the controversy directly. Reid staunchly defended the team’s stance, affirming the authenticity of Toney’s documented injury. However, he acknowledged Toney’s personal struggles, stating, “He’s been working through some things, and he’ll be back out there, and we’ll see how he does.”

Toney’s Season Struggles

Toney’s performance in the 2023 season sharply contrasts with his previous year’s standout contributions. Plagued by costly errors leading to Chiefs’ losses and a significant number of dropped passes, Toney has faced criticism from teammates, fans, and sports analysts alike.

Super Bowl Ambiguity

As the Chiefs gear up to face the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl, speculation surrounds Toney’s potential role in the game. The pivotal question lingers: Will Toney take the field for a chance at redemption on the grand stage, or will he opt to sit out, signaling a possible departure from the Chiefs organization?

Given the current circumstances, a swift reconciliation between Toney and the team appears unlikely. The looming Super Bowl creates a strategic dilemma for the Chiefs, as uncertainty shrouds Toney’s participation in the championship game.

Fans and pundits alike are left in suspense, pondering the future of this talented yet troubled receiver. With the drama surrounding Kadarius Toney intensifying as the Super Bowl approaches, will redemption be in the cards, or will this controversy cast a lasting shadow over the Chiefs’ pursuit of another championship? The NFL world anticipates the unfolding of this intriguing story as the Super Bowl draws near.

The comparison between Michael Jordan and LeBron James is a familiar topic of debate. However, James often faces higher expectations than Jordan did. Retired NBA star Gilbert Arenas recently argued on the Nightcap podcast that it is unfair to blame James, who is 39 years old, for the Los Angeles Lakers’ poor season.

He used the example of Jordan, who at 39 was not criticized for the Washington Wizards’ record. But Jordan’s former teammate, Brendan Hayward disagreed, stating that Jordan did not have a teammate like Anthony Davis, who is significantly better than anyone Jordan played with. Jordan’s numbers also pale in comparison to James’ at age 39.

Incredible Update: Taylor Swift’s Daring Move Turns This Super Bowl into the Most Expensive in History – A Powerful Message to the NFL!

From heartwarming images of Taylor Swift embracing her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end Travis Kelce, after his team clinched another AFC Championship win, to her endearing interactions with Head Coach Andy Reid and CBS Sports’ NFL analyst Tony Romo, the pop superstar is reshaping the narrative of what it means to be a football fan.

These days, it’s routine to begin every NFL Football Sunday with the question, “Is Taylor at the game?” As announcer Jim Nantz once humorously remarked, there were times when she was “questionable all week, but it looks like she’s officially inactive,” much to the chagrin of her many fans.

By publicly supporting her new beau, Swift has shattered the notion that a “true” NFL fan must be well-versed in the intricacies of professional football to be genuinely engaged. With her immense cultural influence, Swift may even be on the verge of achieving the improbable: transforming the NFL from a symbol of toxic masculinity into something new.

The impact of Swift on the league cannot be denied. Thanks to her in-person presence on game days, NFL viewership has surged, with the playoff game between the Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills becoming the most-watched divisional playoff game in history, attracting a staggering 50 million viewers according to CBS. The NFL’s divisional playoff round this year averaged 40 million viewers, the highest since 1988, with Swift contributing to the highest regular-season viewership among women since records began in 2000.

With the Chiefs heading to the Super Bowl for the second consecutive year, experts predict that the game will be the most-watched live event in human history.

Additionally, ticket sales and NFL merchandise, particularly Kelce jerseys, have seen exponential growth. Kelce jersey sales surged by 400% in September, and tickets to this year’s Super Bowl are now the most expensive in NFL history.

Swift has generated an estimated $331.5 million in brand value for both the Chiefs and the NFL, according to Apex Marketing Group.

Perhaps even more crucial is the new generation of Swift fans, including many girls and young women, who are now turning their attention to football. Parents, especially so-called girl dads, have shared how Swift’s attendance has brought them closer to their young daughters, who were previously disinterested in the sport. Now, these young women are fully engaged in what happens on the football field, one Kelce touchdown, Isiah Pacheco run, and adorable Andy Reid moment at a time.

However, amidst all this, it raises the question: Does the NFL truly deserve Taylor Swift? The league has a long history of issues related to violence against women, with many players, coaches, and executives facing allegations without facing substantial consequences. Even a recent peer-reviewed study found that accusations of gender-based violence rarely impact NFL players’ careers.

Despite some strides towards addressing these issues, such as the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) support from Swift, the league’s history remains marred by incidents like the Baltimore Ravens’ honoring of former running back Ray Rice, who was charged with domestic violence.

While Swift’s presence has undoubtedly brought joy to many NFL fans, it’s essential to consider whether the league should benefit from her cultural impact, especially in light of its problematic history. Swift and Kelce have defied traditional gender roles and encouraged emotional vulnerability, which runs counter to the NFL’s longstanding image of toxic masculinity.

Ultimately, if Swift and her devoted fans ever decide to take action against the NFL in response to credible allegations against a player or executive, the financial power of the Swift effect could significantly impact the league’s bottom line. Swift has a history of advocating for women’s rights and speaking out against those who oppose legislation like VAWA, showing that she values using her influence for positive change.

In conclusion, while the NFL may benefit from Swift’s cultural influence, it must also grapple with its history and strive for positive change in addressing issues related to violence against women, especially if it wants to fully embrace the Swift phenomenon.

BREAKING NEWS: Chiefs Consider Signing Two-Time Champion as Replacement for DE Charles Omenihu

The Kansas City Chiefs are grappling with another defensive setback as they say goodbye to defensive end Charles Omenihu, who suffered a torn ACL during their hard-fought 17-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship. This injury leaves a significant void in their defensive line just as they gear up for the 2024 Super Bowl.

Amidst the adversity, a potential solution emerges in the form of a familiar face – seasoned free agent Frank Clark. Acquired by the Chiefs in a significant trade with the Seattle Seahawks in April 2019, Clark made a remarkable impact during his four seasons with the team. In the regular season, he amassed impressive statistics, including 263 tackles, 131 quarterback hits, 67 tackles for loss, 58.5 sacks, 14 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions.

Clark’s postseason contributions were equally noteworthy, with 40 total quarterback pressures, 23 stops, and a standout performance during the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run in the previous season.

However, financial considerations led to the end of Clark’s tenure with the Chiefs in 2023, as his hefty $28.6 million cap hit prompted the team to release him, freeing up $21 million in cap space.

The question arises: Does Frank Clark still fit into the Chiefs’ revamped defense at the age of 30? While he may not entirely replicate the versatility of Omenihu, his skills as a talented pass rusher make him a viable option for the team, especially in the midst of a Super Bowl push.

The potential reunion hinges on agreeing on contract terms, and given the Chiefs’ current cap space of $1.52 million, it could be a feasible arrangement for a player seeking a chance at a third Super Bowl victory before entering free agency again. The question now remains whether Clark and the Chiefs can come to terms for this critical stage of the season.