Βеуοᥒd tһе Ꭱіᥒɡѕ: Μіϲһаеl Јοrdаᥒ’ѕ Τһrее-Ροіᥒt Ρrοᴡеѕѕ Οᥙtѕһіᥒеѕ Ѕtеᴠе Κеrr іᥒ ΝΒΑ ᖴіᥒаlѕ 1996-1998

Michael Jordan could do anything he put his mind to. While his talent was other-worldly, it was his mentality that made him near-impossible to play against. Jordan would make sure that he could do anything and everything on the court if he thought it would help and his teammates get the win.

But Jordan has shown that he can go up against the best when it comes to three-point shooting. In fact, Michael Jordan averaged a higher three-point percentage than Steve Kerr in the NBA Finals between 1996 to 1998. Jordan averaged 31.6% from three, whereas Kerr only averaged 25.5% from three in those three series.

Michael Jordan vs. Steve Kerr: 3-PT % During the NBA Finals Between 1996 to 1998

1996 NBA Finals

Michael Jordan: 31.6% (3.2 Attempts per game)

Steve Kerr: 18.2% (3.7 Attempts per game)

1997 NBA Finals

Michael Jordan: 32% (4.2 Attempts per game)

Steve Kerr: 25% (2.7 Attempts per game)

1998 NBA Finals

Michael Jordan: 30.8% (2.2 Attempts per game)

Steve Kerr: 38.5% (2.2 Attempts per game)

Total between 1996-1998

Michael Jordan: 31.6% (3.2 Attempts per game)

Steve Kerr: 25.2% (2.8 Attempts per game)

Via: StatMuse

Kerr only shot better than Jordan during the 1997-98 NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz. Whereas Jordan was shooting better and attempting more shots in the Finals from the previous years. The fact that Jordan shot better than Kerr, a renowned three-point shooter, and attempted more shots in the three NBA Finals they played together is truly surprising.

Many people have wondered how Jordan would fare in the modern era, where the three-point shot has become very important. Legendary shooter Ray Allen himself believes that Jordan and Kobe Bryant wouldn’t shoot as many three-pointers as players today if they were currently playing, even though they were underrated shooters.

The Phoenix Suns, fresh off an impressive playoff run, have set their sights on adding more firepower to their roster. In an intriguing move, the Suns have expressed their interest in pursuing Miles Bridges, a promising young player known for his athleticism and scoring ability. This potential acquisition has sparked excitement and anticipation among NBA enthusiasts as they envision the impact Bridges could make alongside the Suns’ talented core. Let’s delve into the details of the Suns’ interest in Bridges and explore the potential benefits it could bring to the team.

Bridges’ Rising Stature:Miles Bridges has steadily emerged as a rising star in the league. Known for his high-flying dunks and offensive versatility, Bridges has proven himself as a dynamic scorer and an energetic presence on the court. His ability to attack the rim, knock down perimeter shots, and contribute on the defensive end has caught the attention of multiple teams, including the Phoenix Suns, who see his potential as a valuable addition to their roster.

Enhancing the Suns’ Offensive Arsenal:The Suns’ interest in pursuing Miles Bridges highlights their desire to bolster their offensive arsenal. Bridges’ scoring prowess and ability to create his own shot would add an additional dimension to the Suns’ already potent offense. With Bridges joining forces with established stars such as Devin Booker and Chris Paul, the Suns would boast an even more formidable offensive attack, capable of overwhelming opponents and creating matchup nightmares.

Youthful Energy and Upside:At just 24 years old, Miles Bridges brings youthful energy and considerable upside to any team he joins. The Suns, who have built a strong foundation with a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talent, recognize Bridges’ potential to further elevate their competitiveness. His athleticism and potential for growth make him an exciting prospect to integrate into the Suns’ system, potentially becoming a key contributor for years to come.

Fit within the Sun’s System:The Sun’s interest in Miles Bridges also stems from his potential fit within their system. The team’s emphasis on ball movement, spacing, and a cohesive playing style aligns well with Bridges’ skill set. His ability to thrive in an up-tempo offense, finish at the rim, and stretch the floor with his shooting would complement the Suns’ playing style and provide valuable options for Coach Monty Williams to exploit.

Fan Anticipation and Expectations:News of the Suns’ interest in pursuing Miles Bridges has generated excitement and curiosity among NBA fans. Social media platforms and fan forums are buzzing with discussions about the potential impact of Bridges’ addition to the Suns’ roster. Fans eagerly anticipate the outcome of this pursuit, envisioning the electrifying plays and increased competitiveness that Bridges could bring to the team. The potential synergy between Bridges and the Suns’ core players has sparked optimism and heightened expectations for the upcoming season.

The Phoenix Suns’ interest in pursuing Miles Bridges reflects their commitment to further strengthening their roster. Bridges’ scoring ability, athleticism, and youthful potential align well with the Suns’ style of play and their aspirations for continued success. As the Suns explore the possibility of adding Bridges to their ranks, fans eagerly await the outcome, envisioning a more dynamic and formidable team that can continue making waves in the NBA.

In a groundbreaking move that has sent ripples of excitement through the NBA, the Phoenix Suns have taken a significant step towards achieving NBA supremacy with the signing of Trae Young. This contract signing has sparked a wave of anticipation and optimism among fans and analysts, as Young’s exceptional skills and on-court leadership have the potential to propel the Suns to new heights. In this article, we delve into how Young’s arrival sets Phoenix on a promising trajectory towards NBA dominance.

A Dynamic Offensive Force:Trae Young’s addition to the Suns brings a dynamic offensive force to their roster. Known for his electrifying scoring ability, deep shooting range, and exceptional playmaking skills, Young has established himself as one of the premier guards in the league. His ability to create shots for himself and his teammates, navigate through defenses, and make clutch plays will undoubtedly elevate the Suns’ offensive prowess and make them a formidable offensive juggernaut.

Perfect Fit with the Suns’ System:Young’s playing style and skill set align seamlessly with the Suns’ existing system, making him a perfect fit for the team. With Chris Paul’s exceptional leadership and Devin Booker’s scoring prowess, Young’s arrival adds another layer of offensive firepower and creativity to the Suns’ backcourt. His ability to stretch the floor, exploit mismatches, and generate scoring opportunities will complement the team’s existing strengths and create a versatile and potent offensive attack.

Leadership and Championship Mentality:Despite his young age, Trae Young has already exhibited remarkable leadership qualities and a championship mentality. His ability to take charge on the court, make crucial decisions, and thrive under pressure will undoubtedly inspire his teammates and elevate their performance. Young’s competitive drive and determination to win will infuse the Suns with a renewed sense of purpose, further solidifying their status as contenders for the NBA championship.

Impact on Team Chemistry:The addition of Trae Young to the Suns’ roster will have a profound impact on team chemistry. His infectious energy, unselfish play, and ability to connect with his teammates will foster camaraderie and unity within the team. Young’s presence will strengthen the bond between players and help forge a cohesive unit that is capable of overcoming adversities and thriving in high-stakes situations.

Elevating Playoff Aspirations:Trae Young’s contract signing elevates the Suns’ aspirations in the playoffs. With a talented core already in place, including Booker and Deandre Ayton, Young’s arrival provides the team with an additional star player who can shoulder the scoring load and make game-changing plays. His playoff experience, combined with his offensive prowess, will be instrumental in guiding the Suns through the grueling postseason and positioning them for deep playoff runs.

Fan Excitement and Expectations:The news of Trae Young joining the Phoenix Suns has ignited a new level of excitement among fans. The expectations for the team have soared, as fans envision the Suns becoming a force to be reckoned with in the NBA. The prospect of Young teaming up with the Suns’ talented roster has generated a buzz of anticipation, with fans eagerly awaiting the upcoming season to witness the impact of this transformative contract signing.

The Phoenix Suns have sent shockwaves through the NBA as they announced the acquisition of Domantas Sabonis, unleashing a destructive power that has ignited excitement and anticipation among fans and experts alike. With Sabonis joining their roster, the Suns have solidified their position as serious contenders and set the stage for a thrilling season ahead.

Domantas Sabonis, known for his exceptional skill set and versatility, brings a unique combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking to the Suns. As an All-Star-caliber player, Sabonis has showcased his prowess on both ends of the court, making him a valuable asset for any team. His ability to dominate in the paint, create opportunities for his teammates, and crash the boards with authority adds a new dimension to the Suns’ already potent lineup.

The addition of Sabonis significantly bolsters the Suns’ frontcourt, complementing the talents of their star backcourt duo, Devin Booker and Chris Paul. The trio forms a formidable core that combines scoring, playmaking, and high basketball IQ. The chemistry and cohesion between these players will be crucial in unlocking the Suns’ full potential and propelling them to new heights.

Sabonis’ arrival not only enhances the Suns’ offensive firepower but also strengthens their rebounding and interior defense. His presence in the paint will provide a formidable challenge for opposing teams, limiting their scoring opportunities and controlling the boards. With Sabonis anchoring the frontcourt, the Suns’ defense will be even more formidable, making it increasingly difficult for opponents to penetrate and score inside.

The Suns’ acquisition of Sabonis has garnered widespread excitement and catapulted them into the conversation as one of the teams to watch in the upcoming season. With a roster brimming with talent and depth, the Suns possess the tools to make a deep playoff run and potentially contend for an NBA championship. The combination of skilled veterans and emerging young talents makes them a formidable force in the league.

As fans eagerly await the start of the season, the anticipation surrounding the Suns’ destructive power, fueled by the addition of Domantas Sabonis, continues to grow. The basketball world is buzzing with excitement, eagerly anticipating the mesmerizing displays of talent and the intense competition that lies ahead.

In conclusion, the Phoenix Suns’ acquisition of Domantas Sabonis has unleashed a destructive power that has captivated the NBA community. With Sabonis joining their roster, the Suns have solidified their position as contenders, igniting excitement and anticipation for what promises to be an exhilarating season. The combination of Sabonis with the Suns’ talented core sets the stage for a thrilling journey that fans will eagerly follow as they embark on their quest for NBA glory.

As the 2024 NBA All-Star Game approaches, the Western Conference All-Star team, led by Kevin Durant, faces a unique set of challenges in the absence of Stephen Curry. Curry, known for his incredible shooting and offensive prowess, has been a vital asset in previous All-Star games. Here are five challenges that Durant and the Western Conference All-Star team may encounter without Curry:

Adjusting the offensive dynamics: Stephen Curry’s absence significantly alters the team’s offensive dynamics. Curry’s ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor with his shooting range is unmatched. Without him, Durant and the rest of the team will need to find alternative ways to generate scoring opportunities and maintain offensive efficiency. They may need to rely on different playmaking strategies and explore new combinations to compensate for Curry’s absence.

Filling the void of sharpshooting: Curry is widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. His absence leaves a significant void in terms of long-range shooting. Durant, known for his scoring ability, will likely face increased defensive attention without the threat of Curry’s shooting. The team will need to find other players who can step up and provide consistent outside shooting to keep opposing defenses honest.

Adjusting defensive assignments: Curry’s absence also affects defensive assignments and strategies. His quickness and agility on defense often allow him to guard opposing guards effectively. Without Curry, Durant and the team may need to make adjustments to their defensive rotations and individual assignments. They must find ways to compensate for the loss of Curry’s defensive contributions and maintain a solid defensive presence.

Adapting to a different playmaking style: Curry’s playmaking ability is highly valued in All-Star games, where he regularly sets up his teammates with open looks. His absence requires Durant and the team to adapt to a different playmaking style. Durant, with his scoring and passing abilities, will likely need to take on a larger playmaking role. The team must quickly establish new chemistry and timing to ensure smooth offensive flow.

Managing fan expectations: Stephen Curry’s absence is sure to disappoint many fans who were eagerly anticipating his participation. Durant and the Western Conference All-Star team must manage fan expectations and work to captivate and entertain the crowd despite Curry’s absence. They have an opportunity to showcase their individual talents and collective teamwork while still providing an exciting and memorable All-Star experience.

In conclusion, Kevin Durant and the Western Conference All-Star team will face several challenges in the absence of Stephen Curry. Adjusting offensive dynamics, compensating for the loss of sharpshooting, adapting defensive assignments, adjusting to a different playmaking style, and managing fan expectations will be key factors for Durant and the team to overcome. Despite Curry’s absence, the All-Star game remains a showcase of elite talent, and Durant and his teammates have the opportunity to rise to the challenge and deliver a memorable performance.

In a monumental move that has sent shockwaves through the basketball world, the Phoenix Suns have secured the services of Damian Lillard, a highly decorated and dynamic player whose exceptional skills and unparalleled leadership have made him a force to be reckoned with on the court. Lillard’s contract signing has ignited a surge of excitement among Suns fans and has the potential to propel the team towards NBA supremacy.

The addition of Lillard to the Suns’ roster is a game-changer. Known for his electrifying scoring ability, deep shooting range, and clutch performances, Lillard brings a level of star power and experience that can elevate the Suns to new heights. With his arrival, the Suns’ already talented lineup gains a true superstar who can lead them in their pursuit of NBA greatness.

Lillard’s signing underscores the Suns’ commitment to assembling a championship-caliber team. The organization, known for its strategic moves and long-term vision, recognizes the importance of acquiring top-tier talent to compete at the highest level. By securing Lillard, the Suns have not only strengthened their roster but also sent a resounding message to the league that they are serious contenders for NBA supremacy.

The addition of Lillard also provides the Suns with an elite playmaker and scorer. His ability to create his own shot, distribute the ball, and take over games in crucial moments will significantly enhance the Suns’ offensive firepower. With Lillard alongside the Suns’ existing core of talented players, the team becomes a formidable force capable of challenging any opponent.

Beyond his on-court abilities, Lillard brings intangible qualities that can profoundly impact team chemistry and morale. Known for his captivating leadership and unwavering work ethic, Lillard is expected to seamlessly integrate into the Suns’ culture and elevate the team’s collective mindset. His competitive drive and winning mentality align perfectly with the Suns’ championship aspirations.

As the Suns set their sights on NBA supremacy, the signing of Damian Lillard has raised expectations to unprecedented heights. Fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the impact he will make on the team’s performance and their pursuit of success. The partnership between Lillard and the Suns has the potential to reshape the NBA landscape and solidify the team’s position as a perennial title contender.

In conclusion, Damian Lillard’s contract signing with the Phoenix Suns has ushered in a new era of excitement and anticipation for the team. His arrival signifies the Suns’ unwavering commitment to assembling a championship-caliber roster and propels their quest for NBA supremacy. With Lillard’s exceptional skills and leadership, the Suns have positioned themselves as formidable contenders, ready to rise to new heights and leave an indelible mark on the basketball landscape.

The Phoenix Suns are allegedly close to signing basketball virtuoso Stephen Curry to a contract that would allow them to take their dominance and power to previously unheard-of heights. The NBA landscape has been rocked by this possible partnership as the Suns look to bolster their roster and become a more formidable force. Fans and observers are excitedly anticipating the possible havoc that Curry and the Suns could inflict on the rest of the league as a result of their potential cooperation.

Unleashing a Scorching Tandem: Stephen Curry’s arrival to the Suns would bring an explosive tandem capable of causing mayhem on the court. Devin Booker’s explosive abilities, combined with Curry’s unmatched shooting ability, exceptional ball handling, and calculated playmaking, would create an unstoppable backcourt tandem. The Suns would have offensive firepower thanks to this deadly combination that could overwhelm defenses and force opponents to run for cover.

Revolutionizing Offensive Prowess: The Suns’ offensive powers were revolutionized when Stephen Curry moved to Phoenix. Curry would provide the Suns with a lethal weapon from beyond the arc with his exceptional long-range shooting and ability to generate scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His shooting range defies gravity, forcing opponents’ defenses to bend to the breaking point and creating pathways for traffic.

Dominating the Three-Point Landscape: The Suns’ status as a team to be reckoned with from beyond the arc was cemented with the arrival of Stephen Curry. Curry, who set numerous records for three-point shooting, would bring a fresh perspective to the Suns’ offensive scheme. With his ability to make baskets from almost anywhere on the court, the Suns would have a clear advantage and be extremely difficult for opponents to stop. With Booker’s versatility as a scorer and Curry’s long-range bombs, the Suns might be a formidable offensive team that could shower its opponents with three-pointers.

Aspirations for a Championship Ablaze: The Suns’ hopes for a championship are stoked to new heights by the possible acquisition of Stephen Curry. With Curry joining them, their already-developing squad would have a much better chance of winning the

Despite the regular season yet to start, the NBA preseason is already underway. And one of the first matchups was a battle from the past year’s Western Conference, the Los Angeles Lakers taking on the Stephen Curry led Golden State Warriors.

The Warriors came out on top, as the coaching staff managed to try out the new duo of point guards on their team. But what was even hilarious is Stephen Curry leaving Anthony Davis hanging while he was busy chatting with LeBron James.

Stephen Curry busy with LeBron James

A battle right out of the West, the Golden State Warriors came out on top as they faced the Los Angeles Lakers in the preseason game. And with how the game went, the Warriors may have something to look forward to this season.

The Warriors coaching staff landed a gem in Chris Paul this offseason after trading away Jordan Poole. Paul, who had been on the opposite side of the court of Curry, finally hit the hardwood floor together.

Given that it was a preseason game, the stars did not play major minutes during the matchup. LeBron James did not suit up for the Lakers but Anthony Davis surely got some playing time for the game. As for the Warriors, Stephen Curry and Chris Paul finally got some official playing time together. And it wasn’t disappointing, given that the Warriors came out on top with a final score of 125-108.

After the game, LeBron James and Stephen Curry shared a hug and a few laughs at half court. While the two were talking, Lakers star forward Anthony Davis dived in and tried to dap up Curry.

Unfortunately for Davis, he was left hanging for quite a while before Curry realized that Davis had his hand up to greet him.

Fans getting a taste for the upcoming season

The game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors had a little something for everyone. The fans, even though did not get to see all stars suit up, did get a glimpse of a few.

As for the players, they got to see how the new acquisitions worked with each other on the court. Plus, the Curry leaving Anthony Davis hanging wasn’t the only hilarious moment fans got to see from this game.

Jonatha Kuminga ended up passing the ball to Steph when he was out of bounds and on the bench was another hilarious moment of the match. It ended up cracking up the entire Warriors bench. So, let’s see what the upcoming season has in store for fans.

Michael Jordan’s Enduring Legacy: An Achievement Beyond Replication

In a bonus feature from The Last Dance’s limited blu-ray gift set, Michael Jordan declared that there will never be another player like him. During an interview with Stuart Scott on his Sunday Conversation show in 1998, Jordan expressed his belief that his impact on the game of basketball is unique and cannot be replicated. His statement emphasizes his unparalleled skills, talent, and drive that have solidified his status as a legendary figure in basketball history.

“It’s not fair, you know, but it’s a standard of measurement. When I came in, [it was] Dr. J, Elgin Baylor. It’s just a standard of measurement for people to compare to. But there’s never going to be another Michael Jordan. There’s never going to be another Dr. J. Magic Johnson. Larry Bird.

Now, there’s gonna be a Kobe Bryant, there’s gonna be a Grant Hill, Anfernee Hardaway. These guys are going to have similar traits, it’s how they manifest those traits to be the best basketball player, the best role model that they can be.”

 

That wasn’t the last time Jordan spoke on the subject. The Bulls icon has since been honest about who he thinks deserves the GOAT title – and it’s not himself.

In 2009, Jordan told Michael Wilbon that he “doesn’t want” the title because he hasn’t played against legends in the league prior to himself — like Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West.

He shared those same sentiments in a recent interview with Cigar Aficionado.

Still, don’t get it twisted. Back when MJ had his hoop earring in, he made it clear that he doesn’t think there will be another like him.

Harrison Butker’s Jaw-Dropping Performance Earns Him AFC Special Teams Player of the Week – You Won’t Believe What He Pulled Off!

Despite the Kansas City Chiefs securing just one touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, they still amassed an impressive 25 points during the game.

The key to their triumph rested on the reliable leg of kicker Harrison Butker, who is now receiving considerable acclaim for his clutch performance.

Officially announced on Wednesday, Butker clinched the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award for his stellar showing in Week 17, marking his fifth career accolade in this category. His previous honors were in 2017 (twice), 2019, and 2020. This year, his standout performance played a pivotal role in the crucial AFC West-clinching victory on Sunday.

In that game, Butker showcased his kicking prowess by flawlessly converting all six of his field goal attempts, including two from the 20-29 yard range, three from the 40-49 yard range, and an impressive one from beyond the 50-yard mark. Additionally, he made all his extra-point attempts.

This season has been exceptional for Butker, boasting a career-high field goal success rate of 93.9%. This signifies a significant rebound from his previous season, plagued by an ankle injury and inconsistent performance. During Weeks 1-14 of this season, Butker was a perfect 23-for-23 in field goal attempts. Following a couple of games with misses, he rebounded with a personal-best performance of six successful kicks on Sunday.

Butker’s recognition as AFC Special Teams Player of the Week makes him the second Chiefs player to earn such an honor this season. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes secured the Offensive Player of the Week award for Week 12, thanks to his impressive performance of 298 yards and two touchdowns in a 31-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. With only one game remaining in the regular season, the Chiefs have one last opportunity to have a player recognized with a weekly award when they face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.