USC Basketball News: Incoming freshman Heckel and Smith led Team USA to an impressive gold medal win - Athlon Sports

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1. USC Basketball News: Incoming freshman Heckel and Smith led Team USA to an impressive gold medal win  Athlon Sports
2. United States asserts its dominance with another FIBA U18 Women's AmeriCup crown  FIBA
3. UConn women's basketball freshman Sarah Strong wins first 5x5 gold medal with Team USA  CT Insider
4. Future South Carolina basketball began AmeriCup play with Team USA on Monday  Garnet and Cocky
5. Incoming South Carolina freshman, Joyce Edwards, leads the U.S. to the gold medal  Sports Illustrated

USC Basketball News: Incoming freshman Heckel and Smith led Team USA to an impressive gold medal win - Athlon Sports
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'We're 11 strong': Gilas Pilipinas sticks with current roster minus Scottie Thompson - Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – There is no more replacing Scottie Thompson as Gilas Pilipinas sticks with its 11-man crew for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.

Head coach Tim Cone confirmed on Monday, June 24, that the team decided not to get a stand-in for Thompson, who is out with the same back injury that also kept him out at the start of the previous PBA Philippine Cup.

“We’re 11 strong,” said Cone after the Nationals nailed a 74-64 win over the Taiwan Mustangs in a friendly game on the eve of their flight to Europe.

“I don’t feel we’re shorthanded at all. I’m not a guy who plays 11 or 12 guys anyway. You know me, I don’t play that many guys. I’m really an eight or nine-man rotation [guy].”

“The reason you have 12 guys is not necessarily for the game but to have 12 guys in practice in case somebody goes down.”

Injuries have pestered the national team as it is also set to miss original players AJ Edu (knee) and Jamie Malonzo (calf) in the OQT, where the Philippines will face world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia in the group stage.

But Gilas Pilipinas found replacements for Edu and Malonzo as early as April, tapping Japeth Aguilar and Amos as reserve players.

Thompson looked ready to suit up in the OQT as he saw action for Barangay Ginebra in the PBA just last May 31 – a Game 7 loss to Meralco in the semifinals – before being bothered again by his bulging disc.

“I would rather go with 12 and invite people to play rather than go with 16 and cut people. I didn’t want to cut people. The idea is we need somebody, we’ll go get them. We got Japeth, we got Mason,” said Cone.

“The thing with Scottie happened so late, however, we just couldn’t get somebody for him. We didn’t really feel we needed anybody for him at this point.”

With Thompson sidelined, Cone counts on Dwight Ramos, CJ Perez, and Chris Newsome to share the backcourt load.

In Europe, Gilas Pilipinas will play two more friendly matches against the national teams of Turkiye (Turkey) and Poland before it competes in the OQT, which is scheduled from July 2 to 7. – Rappler.com

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'We're 11 strong': Gilas Pilipinas sticks with current roster minus Scottie Thompson - Rappler
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USA's Micah Christenson brings home lessons, fun VNL experience - Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – After wrapping up their campaign in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), skipper Micah Christenson and Team USA shift their full focus on the 2024 Paris Olympics.

And they’re bringing with them new learnings on their team and loads of memories with Manila fans.

“[We’re] gonna need everybody at the Olympics, so from the top-down, we’re gonna need everybody on this team,” said Christenson.

“So to be able to have the ability to give them (younger players) experience in a big game, in a sold-out crowd [just like in our last VNL game] against Japan, is a wonderful experience,” the 31-year-old setter added.

USA closed its VNL campaign with a loss to fellow crowd favorite Japan, 25-20, 25-23, 25-19, on Sunday, June 23, at the packed Mall of Asia Arena.

With the win, Japan claimed its first win over the US after 19 tries, to stay inside the top eight with a fourth-best 9-3 record and advance to the playoff round in Poland next week.

The Americans, meanwhile, bowed out of the tournament with a 5-7 card at 12th place.

“I think we pushed really hard, we showed our level in a lot of the sets, but towards the end of the sets, Japan really turned their serving pressure on, especially (Kent) Miyaura… he came in with some really big serves, and compliments to Japan for those moments,” said Christenson.  

Although USA and Japan stars played sparingly as the reserves took center stage in the no-bearing match attended by 12,424 fans, Christenson again thanked the Filipinos for their immense support throughout the tournament.

“Incredible. It was capped off with an incredible crowd, the last game up here in Manila, so wish we could’ve made it a little longer of a match,”  said Christenson.

“But at the same time it was good volleyball. It was really good volleyball out there on the court – really proud of our guys and how we fought and how we battled,” he added.

“So now, we’re just gonna keep learning from our experience. But our trip in Manila was a great success based on our experience.” 

  

– Rappler.com

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USA's Micah Christenson brings home lessons, fun VNL experience - Rappler
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Edwards Leads U.S. to FIBA U18 AmeriCup Gold - South Carolina Gamecocks

BUCARAMANGA, COLOMBIA – South Carolina incoming freshman Joyce Edwards led the U.S. in the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s AmeriCup, which wrapped up tonight with an 80-69 win over Canada in the final game in Bucaramanga, Colombia. The Americans steamrolled through the tournament’s six games with Edwards’ 14.2 points per game leading the U.S. and ranking fourth in the tournament, earning her Tournament MVP honors.

In the gold medal game, the U.S. jumped out to a nine-point lead after the opening quarter. After seeing Canada win this second period to pull within six at halftime, the Americans resumed control in the third and fourth quarters to cruise to the victory. Edwards finished the night with 16 points on 6-of-11 shooting and posted her second double-double of the tournament with a team-high 13 rebounds to go along with five steals in 37 minutes of action.

Overall in the tournament, Edwards shook off a slow start in the opening game to post a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double against Puerto Rico in the second game of group play. She scored 14 or more points in the remaining five outings while playing 19.5 minutes per game. In the quarterfinals against Dominican Republic, her 14 points game on sterling 7-of-10 shooting, and she hit 54.5 (36-66) percent from the field over the six games. Her 7.2 rebounds per game were second on the team

It marks Edwards’ second international gold medal after she earned a spot on the All-Star Five while helping the U.S. to gold at the 2023 U19 World Cup

The USA women own 12 of 14 U18 gold medals and 11 consecutive dating back to 2000. The U.S. has qualified for the 2025 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup.

Continue to check GamecocksOnline.com and the team’s social media accounts (@GamecockWBB) for the most up-to-date information on South Carolina women’s basketball.

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Edwards Leads U.S. to FIBA U18 AmeriCup Gold - South Carolina Gamecocks
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Egonu leads Italy to their second VNL title, Japan settles for historic silver, Poland defend their bronze - FIVB.com

Italy are the women’s Volleyball Nations League 2024 champions! Powered by usual suspect Paola Egonu in Sunday’s final in Bangkok, they defeated Japan in four sets and claimed the VNL trophy for the second time, after 2022, when they triumphed at the Finals in Ankara. Japan settled for silver, a historic success for the Asian team, whose best previous result in the competition was a fourth place in 2021. Poland managed to defend their 2023 bronze by outlasting Brazil in a dramatic five-set battle for the third place.

In front of over six thousand spectators in Thailand’s capital, Italy outspiked and outblocked Japan to celebrate a 3-1 (25-17, 25-17, 21-25, 25-20) victory. And their star opposite Paola Egonu excelled at both of those elements. She raised four of her team’s 12 kill blocks (against only two from Japan) and hammered 23 of Italy’s 66 successful swings in attack (against 52 from Japan) to top the match charts with 27 points to her name. Outside hitters Myriam Sylla and Alice Degradi chipped in another 15 and 12 points, respectively, towards the victory, while a monster block by Sarah Fahr delivered the match winner in the fourth set.

With the help of two aces from Arisa Inoue, Japan fought back to prevail in the third set, but that was as much as they could take away from their powerful opponent. Inoe finished with 11 points, while outside hitter and captain Sarina Koga spearheaded the team with 17 points, all in offence.

“How can I feel! I am happy, of course, because we are an amazing group and you can see it in how we play on the court. I hope this is just the beginning,” Italy’s middle blocker and captain Anna Danesi told VBTV after the final. “This tournament was really hard, we travelled a lot, but we stayed focused and we won. Again, it’s an amazing team! Congratulations to Japan! They deserved to be in this final.”

“I think we grew a lot as a team throughout this VNL and we have to be proud of that. Winning our first VNL medal is something we have to be proud of, but there are some things we have to work on too,” Japan’s middle Airi Miyabe commented.

Earlier on Sunday, Poland celebrated a 3-2 (25-21, 26-28, 25-21, 19-25, 15-9) victory over Brazil in the third place match and achieved their second podium in the history of the competition, after last year’s bronze. Less than 24 hours after suffering their first loss of the season in a five-set semifinal against Japan, Brazil had to persevere through another five-setter to lose once again. It was the second time they settled for a fourth-place finish, after doing so in the inaugural edition in 2018. The South Americans collected silver medals in the next three seasons, but this year’s result is still better than last year’s, when they failed to make it among the semifinalists for the first time.

Both sides displayed some top-calibre blocking during the match and it was one of the elements that tilted the balance Poland’s way with an impressive 19 stuffs against 16 for Brazil. Outside hitter Martyna Lukasik led Poland to victory with 21 points, including two kill blocks. Opposite Magdalena Stysiak added another 20 points with three blocks to her name. Another outside, 20-year-old Martyna Czyrnianska, who was among the starters for the last two sets only, also put away three blocking points to finish with a total of 13, but it was middle Agnieszka Korneluk, who led the way with as many as seven stuffs and added two aces within an 11-point match tally. One more Polish player reached the double digits and that was outside Natalia Medrzyk with 11 points.

Brazilian star outside and captain Gabriela Guimaraes (Gabi) delivered a match-high 22 points. Her cross-court teammate Julia Bergmann added another 20. Middle Ana Carolina Da Silva (Carol) raised five kill blocks to finish with 13 points, while outside-turned-opposite Ana Cristina de Souza put away 10.

It was no surprise to anyone that Paola Egonu was honoured as the Most Valuable Player of the women’s Volleyball Nations League 2024. For the 25-year-old star opposite it was the second MVP nomination in the VNL. She also received the prestigious award in 2022, the first time her team Italy claimed the title. It was one of numerous MVP awards Egonu has earned at various prestigious national team and club competitions throughout her career.

Egonu also led a line-up of seven prominent players who were honoured on the symbolic VNL Dream Team during the Awarding Ceremony at the end of the Finals in Bangkok on Sunday evening.

Best Setter: Alessia Orro (Italy)
Best Opposite: Paola Egonu (Italy)
Best Outside Hitters: Sarina Koga (Japan) and Myriam Sylla (Italy)
Best Middle Blockers: Agnieszka Korneluk (Poland) and Sarah Fahr (Italy)
Best Libero: Manami Kojima (Japan)

Paola Egonu produced 27 points as the best scorer of the final match, in which Italy celebrated a four-set victory over Japan. The 1.93m-tall opposite was also the best scorer of the Finals event in Thailand and Italy’s best scorer in the Preliminary Phase of the competition. Her overall tally in VNL 2024 totals 257 points, including 212 spikes, 29 kill blocks and 16 aces.

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Egonu leads Italy to their second VNL title, Japan settles for historic silver, Poland defend their bronze - FIVB.com
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Japan, Italy reach VNL women's final - Xinhua

BANGKOK, June 23 (Xinhua) -- Japan beat Brazil in a five-set semifinal victory over Brazil here on Saturday and will meet Italy in the final of the FIVB's women's Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2024 finals.

Brazil returned from a set down twice to force a decider, and tied to fifth set at 9-9 after trailing 7-1. But Japan's staunch defense kept them ahead to win 26-24, 20-25, 25-21, 22-25, 15-12.

Japan's opposite Yukiko Wada led her team to victory with a game-high 21 points.

In the other semifinal, Italy strolled past Poland in straight sets for the second appearance in the VNL final after winning gold in 2022. ■

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Japan, Italy reach VNL women's final - Xinhua
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Pinoy athletes leave for Paris 2024 Olympics | Photos | GMA News Online - GMA News Online

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Pinoy athletes leave for Paris 2024 Olympics | Photos | GMA News Online - GMA News Online
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Takahashi leaves PH due to injury; Nishida, Ishikawa step up for last 2 VNL Manila games - Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – Team Japan will be one member short in its last two VNL Manila games as superstar spiker Ran Takahashi has left the Philippines due to a nagging knee injury, Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara said on Friday, June 21.

Takahashi’s 2024 VNL stint in Manila has therefore ended at just one game played: a 13-point effort in a five-set loss against Canada last Tuesday, June 18.

The burden of leading Japan in its last two games now lands on Takahashi’s partners-in-crime, fiery Yuji Nishida and captain Yuki Ishikawa, who led Friday’s three-set blowout of the Netherlands with 16 and 15 points, respectively.

For Nishida, who scored a whopping 10 points in the deciding third frame, said it’s now up to the rest of Japan to carry the scoring cudgels, first against France on Saturday, June 22, 7 pm, and then against the USA on Sunday, June 23, 7 pm.

“I hoped that he would come back but it is the situation and it’s more important to have that mentality. Maybe, we were a little bit nervous, I think the guys are keeping the motivation and energy. So, I hope that [Ran] will come back much better at his game and [rejoin] the team,” he said.

“It’s not so long before the Olympics, so, [he’s not in a hurry]. But we will keep improving step-by-step, for the important games.”

Ishikawa, who respectfully declined to further comment on his teammate’s condition, said his team simply has to move on and find the next best options against the French and Americans.

“I cannot speak for the team but we have to play without him. [Tatsunori] Otsuka was playing well, so we are so happy, and when someone [has an] injury, we have to play always. So we [act like] a single body,” he said.

Carrying a 7-3 VNL 2024 record and already assured of a Paris Olympics spot, Japan likely erred on the side of caution regarding Takahashi, who has had a long history of injuries in recent years.

Nishida, Ishikawa, and the rest of the star-studded Japanese, however, have more than enough firepower to take care of business, as they showed to full effect Friday night against the Dutch. – Rappler.com

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Takahashi leaves PH due to injury; Nishida, Ishikawa step up for last 2 VNL Manila games - Rappler
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Amid mixed results in VNL Manila debut, USA volley stars hope to do more for PH fans - Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – Heading to the Manila leg of the 2024 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL), the USA men’s volleyball team was arguably the most awaited and hyped squad arriving on Philippine soil – even more so than crowd darling Japan, which already played in the country in the last two years.

Results for the world top 10-ranked Americans, however, have been mixed, as they lost in stunning fashion to once-winless Iran in five sets on Wednesday, June 19, before needing five more frames to take down fellow powerhouse Brazil less than 24 hours later on Thursday, June 20.

Although already guaranteed a spot in the 2024 Olympics, USA stars like top scorer TJ Defalco and veteran captain setter Micah Christenson still hope to give more effort in their remaining preliminary games, all for the sake of their thousands of Filipino fans who invested in tickets to watch them win.

“Yeah, [the Iran game] was tough. We’re in an interesting part right now in USA volleyball. We just come out of every game trying to get better and just trying to play USA volleyball. We’re not quite there yet, but we’re figuring it out and that was a big step for us,” Defalco said after a 21-point effort versus Brazil.

“I hecking love this place. It’s amazing, the country and the fans. Everybody speaks English and it’s very accommodating. It feels like home.”

Christenson, who followed up a 35-excellent set outing against Iran with a massive 41-excellent set eruption over Brazil, admitted they needed to rework their somewhat passive mentality to kick off their Manila tour, as USA still remains in 12th place with a 4-6 record in the 16-team field.

“Our mantra for today was just let’s just be a little bit better than yesterday. With the mentality of ‘let’s just try to get a little bit better and we don’t have to play perfect,’ I think we did a very good job of that tonight, and it showed, especially in that fifth set,” said the amiable 31-year-old leader.

“I can’t say enough about the support. It’s something that I’ve talked about before, but we felt it a lot, never even being here in the Philippines. Now we’re finally here, and we get to feel it in the stadium, it’s something really, really special and we can’t thank the fans enough for being here and supporting us.”

Christenson, Defalco, and the rest of the highly-touted American squad don’t need to give their all for their next two assignments: one on Saturday, June 22, 11 am, against Germany, and a Manila leg send-off showdown against Japan on Sunday, June 23, 7 pm.

With the Olympics just around the corner, VNL results don’t necessarily matter for them when looking at the big picture.

But for the Filipino fans, who have given them more love than they ever expected, Team USA will definitely try. – Rappler.com

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Amid mixed results in VNL Manila debut, USA volley stars hope to do more for PH fans - Rappler
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Canada sweeps Germany in push for Volleyball Nations League men's quarterfinals - CBC.ca

Canada improved its chances of advancing to the quarterfinals of the men's Volleyball Nations League with a lopsided 3-0 win over Germany on Thursday in Manila, Philippines.

Stephen Maar and Arthur Szwarc each had a game-high 15 points for Canada which won handily with set scores of 25-18, 25-18 and 25-21.

Moritz Karlitzek led Germany with 13 points.

Canada outscored Germany in attacking (46-31), blocking (8-3) and aces (4-3).

"It was a great and important win — we played very, very well for two and a half sets; especially in attack," said Canada head coach Tuomas Sammelvuo.

"There's always something to learn and that's how we handle moments of the game, such as the last part of the third set [when Germany attempted a comeback], which was a good lesson for us. How to stay focused and push on every rally. But it was great game in attack. Now we recover and get ready for the next game."

Canada, which has already qualified for the Paris Olympics, sits fifth in the standings halfway through the final week of preliminary-round play. The top three teams at the end of the week advance to the quarterfinals.

The Canadians (6-4) face fourth-place Brazil on Friday at 3 a.m. ET in a match that will be live streamed at CBC Sports, the CBC Sports App and CBC Gem. They complete the preliminary round Saturday against No. 13 Netherlands.

WATCH | Thursday full match replay — Canada vs. Germany:

FIVB Men's 2024 Volleyball Nations League Manila: Canada vs. Germany

1 day ago

Duration 1:36:59

Watch Canada face Germany at the FIVB 2024 Men's Volleyball Nations League tournament in Manila, Philippines

Canadian roster

• Luke Herr – Winnipeg
• Brett Walsh – Calgary
• Ryley Barnes – Edmonton
• Nicholas Hoag – Sherbrooke, Que.
• Eric Loeppky – Steinbach, Man.
• Stephen Maar – Aurora, Ont.
• Brodie Hofer – Langley, B.C.
• Pearson Eshenko – Banff, Alta.
• Fynn McCarthy – Lake Country, B.C.
• Danny Demyanenko – Toronto
• Lucas Van Berkel – Edmonton
• Xander Ketrzynski – Toronto
• Arthur Szwarc – Toronto
• Justin Lui – Pickering, Ont.
• Reserve: Jordan Schnitzer – Surrey, B.C.
• Reserve: Landon Currie – Coldstream, B.C.

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Canada sweeps Germany in push for Volleyball Nations League men's quarterfinals - CBC.ca
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2024 USA Basketball Men's U17 National Team Announced - USA Basketball

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1. 2024 USA Basketball Men's U17 National Team Announced  USA Basketball
2. Boozers, Peat and Dybantsa headline USA final roster  FIBA
3. Fil-Am guard JJ Mandaquit selected for Team USA squad in FIBA Men's U-17 World Cup  One Sports
4. Buckhorn’s Caleb Holt earns spot on USA Men’s Under 17 National Basketball Team  AL.com
5. Gilbert Perry's Koa Peat headlines USA U17 World Cup team  Arizona Sports

2024 USA Basketball Men's U17 National Team Announced - USA Basketball
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Kobe Bryant Connection With Celtics' NBA Finals Win Is Trending Online - Athlon Sports

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1. Kobe Bryant Connection With Celtics' NBA Finals Win Is Trending Online  Athlon Sports
2. Ranking the top 10 Celtics champions in franchise history  NBA.com
3. Celtics parade to be held Friday; See additional information here  WMUR Manchester
4. Parity or dynasty - The Boston Celtics' chances at breaking a modern NBA trend  ESPN
5. Patrick Beverley's One-Word Reaction to Boston Celtics Winning NBA Championship  Sports Illustrated

Kobe Bryant Connection With Celtics' NBA Finals Win Is Trending Online - Athlon Sports
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Starting 5, June 19: Celtics celebrate their 18th title - NBA.com

When you’re still basking in the glow of the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

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THE LINEUP 🏀

What’s inside today’s edition?

Championship Celebrations: The Celtics take their place next to other Boston greats

Best Of The Finals: The top plays, all-access content, mic’d up moments and more

Pritchard’s Heave: How Payton Pritchard’s signature shot ignited Boston

Luka’s Numbers: Doncic put up historic stats during Dallas’ run to the Finals

Through The Lens: More of our favorite images from Monday in Boston

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BUT FIRST … ⏰

That’s a wrap on the 2023-24 NBA season

Cue the Duck Boats: The Celtics championship parade is set for Friday. Stay locked in on the NBA App for more information and an all-access look as Boston celebrates its first NBA title in 16 years

Celebrating Juneteenth: Today is Juneteenth. The NBA family continues to support the national dialogue on race through year-round, leaguewide efforts that promote equality and justice.

As part of those efforts, the league honors the history and heritage of the Black community.

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1. CLASSIC CELTICS TITLE CELEBRATIONS

Check out this mix highlighting the History of the Boston Celtics and achieving banner No. 18!

The Celtics have made a habit out of celebrating NBA championships with their record 18th coming on Monday.

Take a look back at some of the company that Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and the 2024 Celtics just joined.

1962: Bob Cousy dribbles out the clock and the crowd storms the court as the Celtics win their fourth consecutive title

1968: Bill Russell celebrates his 10th NBA championship as a player and first as a coach as he held both roles for the Celtics

1981: Robert Parish is doused in champagne after winning the first of his three Celtics championships

1986: Larry Bird, Red Auerbach, Kevin McHale and the Larry O’Brien Trophy after Boston won the Finals

2008: Overcome with emotion, Kevin Garnett screams “Anything is possible!” as he celebrates his first (and only) NBA championship

2008: “Thank you, Red” – Doc Rivers recreates the iconic Red Auerbach cigar pose after winning the Finals

2024: Jaylen Brown connects the past and present – a cigar à la Red Auerbach in one hand and the Finals MVP trophy named for Bill Russell in the other

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2. BEST OF THE 2024 NBA FINALS

Take a look at the best plays from the 2024 NBA Finals!

You’ve never seen an NBA Finals like this. 

Experience basketball’s biggest stage from every angle with unprecedented behind-the-scenes content you won’t find anywhere else — from the top deck of the arena to inside the winning locker room.

Chasing History: Go deep inside the final chapter in the Celtics’ historic run to banner 18

Relive the best plays from the 2024 Finals, headlined by half-court heaves, Luka dimes and JB jams.

Witness the Celtics’ historic title run like never before with the best of our All-Access content.

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3. PRITCHARD AT THE BUZZER, KEY RUNS & BIG LEADS

With four seconds left in the 1st half, Luka Doncic hit a driving floater while drawing a foul on Jayson Tatum. As Luka went to the free-throw line looking to cut Boston’s lead to 17, the buzzer sounded.

Payton Pritchard in. Derrick White out.

Luka missed the free throw, Al Horford corralled the rebound, and got the ball to Pritchard on the move.

• 🗣 Mike Breen: “Here’s Pritchard, he loves these, puts it up from half-court at the buzzer… BANG! Pritchard at the buzzer with a 3-pointer. HE’S DONE IT AGAIN!”
• It’s rare for Breen to break out his signature “BANG” in the first half – those are usually saved for clutch situations – but exceptions can be made when you make the longest shot in the Finals (since 1998)

Pritchard’s shot sent the Celtics to the locker room with a 21-point lead – their largest of the game to that point – as it capped off a 19-7 run to close the first half. | See it from every angle

All three components – the shot, the run and the 20+ point lead – were common themes of the Celtics’ season and championship run.

Payton Pritchard’s Best Career Buzzer Beating Heaves

The Shot: Pritchard’s developed a rep as somebody with a knack for closing quarters — from anywhere on the court.

• “That’s what I do!” – Pritchard after beating the 3rd-quarter buzzer in Game 2 of the Finals
• “He’s been hitting those shots all season long.” – Jaylen Brown
• Pritchard made 170 total 3s between the regular season and Playoffs – eight were from 30+ feet from the basket, two were from 48+ feet at the buzzer.

Look familiar? Pritchard hit a 50-footer to beat the buzzer against Washington on Feb. 9

The Run: Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla preached the importance of closing quarters strong all season long. And it paid off in the Finals.

• Game 1: After Dallas’ 35-14 run cut Boston’s lead to eight, the Celtics responded with a 14-2 run over the final 4:28 of the 3rd quarter to push the lead back to 20
• Game 3: After Dallas made it a six-point game in the 3rd, Boston closed the period on a 14-5 run to push its lead to 15 and extended the run to 20-5 and the lead to 21 in the opening minute of the 4th.
• Dallas rallied again to make it a one-point game, but Boston ended the game on a 13-6 run to secure the win
• Game 5: Boston used a 7-0 spurt in exactly one minute of game time to turn a one-point lead into 10 at the end of the 1st quarter. The Celtics followed that with the 19-7 run to close the 1st half capped by Pritchard’s buzzer-beater

The Lead: Game 5 of the Finals marked the 50th game out of 101 total games played between the regular season and Playoffs that Boston led by 20+ points – the second most of the play-by-play era.

• The Top 5: 2016-17 Warriors (53), 2023-24 Celtics (50), 2015-16 Warriors (44), 2007-08 Celtics (43), 2014-15 Warriors (42)

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4. LUKA’S LEGENDARY PLAYOFF NUMBERS

In the 2024 playoffs, Luka Doncic became the first player in NBA history to record 450+ points, 150+ rebounds, 150+ assists and 50+ made 3-pointers in a single postseason.

And he shattered the mark before even stepping on a Finals floor.

Despite falling short of his ultimate goal, in just 50 career Playoff games, Doncic hasn’t just taken a seat among some of the greatest postseason performers ever — he’s set himself apart.

• 1 And Only: Luka is the only player in NBA history to eclipse 1,500+ points (1,546) and 100+ made 3s (166) through his first 50 career Playoff games
• Luka 🤝 Jordan: Doncic (30.9 PPG) has the second-highest career Playoff scoring average in NBA history, behind only Michael Jordan (33.4) (min. three games)
• Luka, LeBron, KD, & Kobe: Luka (27 games) only trails LeBron James (35), Kevin Durant (33) and Kobe Bryant (32) for the most 30+ point Playoff games at the age of 25 or younger
• 🗣️ Kyrie Irving on Luka: “Watching him ascend into becoming an all-time great is amazing, and I don’t take it for granted.”

This spring, Luka became the first player in the NBA to lead a single postseason in total points (635), rebounds (208), assists (178) and steals (41) since steals were first tracked in 1973-74.

And his statistical dominance didn’t stop there.

Remove steals, and Luka is just the second player ever to lead a Playoffs in total points, rebounds and assists, joining Nikola Jokic (2023).

Doncic also led the Playoffs in 30+ point games (10), points created by assists (446), clutch assists (10), double-doubles (16) & triple-doubles (7).

• Triple-Doubles: Luka’s seven triple-doubles tie Wilt Chamberlain (1967) for the second-most in a single Playoff run, trailing only Nikola Jokic’s 10 in 2023
• The Leaders: Only five players have more career Playoff triple-doubles than Doncic (10); Jason Kidd (11), Russell Westbrook (12), Jokic (18), LeBron (28) and Magic Johnson (30)
• Rapid Rate: Their number of career Playoff games played? Kidd (158), Westbrook (122), Jokic (80), LeBron (287) and Magic (190). Luka’s? 50.

Still Hungry: And after a postseason that saw Doncic pass Dirk Nowitzki (620 PTS in 2006) for the most points by a Maverick in a single Playoff run while leading Dallas to just its third ever Finals appearance, Doncic isn’t satisfied.

• 🗣️ Luka After The Finals: “I’m sad we lost … We didn’t win (the) Finals, but we did have a hell of a season … We can learn from that, and we gotta fight next season.”
• 🗣️ Dirk Via X: “Great run Mavericks. Heads up!! We will be back!!!”

---

5. FINALS FRAMES, PART 2: A FEW MORE FAVES FROM BOSTON’S 18TH TITLE

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Starting 5, June 19: Celtics celebrate their 18th title - NBA.com
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2024 USA Basketball Men's U17 National Team Announced - USA Basketball

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1. 2024 USA Basketball Men's U17 National Team Announced  USA Basketball
2. Warriors Broadcaster Bob Fitzgerald to Call 2024 Olympic Basketball  NBA.com
3. Sons of LeBron, Melo, Boozer plus 2022 U17 champ Koa Peat headline USA preliminary roster  FIBA
4. Buckhorn’s Caleb Holt earns spot on USA Men’s Under 17 National Basketball Team  AL.com
5. USA Basketball U17 Junior National Team Finalists Roster Breakdown  On3.com

2024 USA Basketball Men's U17 National Team Announced - USA Basketball
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'This is the sweetest': Maliksi puts historic Meralco title at top of all his championships - Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – Allein Maliksi is a Grand Slam champion, but somehow, the joy of helping Meralco capture an elusive PBA crown exceeds the feeling of winning his other titles.

A member of the San Mig Coffee crew that completed a title sweep of the 2013-2014 season, Maliksi said the Bolts’ first championship tops his list as Meralco pulled off a giant upset against San Miguel for the Philippine Cup throne.

“This is the sweetest. I did not really feel much about my past championships. I was part of the team, but my role was not that big,” said Maliksi in a mix of Filipino and English.

“But this time, after all the heartbreaks, our hardship [paid off].”

Meralco lifting the prestigious All-Filipino trophy felt like a storybook ending to a campaign that got off to a shaky start.

At one point, the Bolts were at 11th place and in danger of missing the playoffs after dropping five of their first eight games before they wrapped up the elimination round on a three-game winning streak to clinch the No. 3 seed.

Making quick work of NLEX in quarterfinals, Meralco arranged a semifinal duel with longtime tormentor Barangay Ginebra, a team that beat the Bolts six times in their first seven playoff encounters, including four in the finals.

Teetering on the brink of elimination with a 2-3 deficit, Meralco won the last two games as it toppled the Gin Kings in a best-of-seven series for the first time.

A heavily favored Beermen crew that won six of the last eight Philippine Cup crowns waited in the finals, but the Bolts flipped the script and closed out the series in six games off a game-winner by Meralco star Chris Newsome.

“We started from the bottom and went through all of those do-or-die games from the eliminations to Game 7 against Ginebra,” said Maliksi, who bagged his fifth PBA title. “Finally we got one after all the finals we lost.”

“If we ever win another championship with Meralco, I think this will be the best,” he added. “I think nothing will ever exceed this championship.”

“This is the best that we’ve won, ever.”

Maliksi rose to the occasion as Meralco won the last two games of the finals after San Miguel pulled level at 2-2.

Limited to just 8.3 points on a dismal 25% clip from Games 2 to 4, Maliksi turned in his finest performance of the finals with 22 points on 59% shooting in their Game 5 win.

He then tallied 14 points and 3 rebounds as the Bolts escaped with a gripping 80-78 victory in Game 6 to wrap up the title series.

“I told myself, now is not the time to be gun-shy. I did not want to waste the opportunity to perform, to prove my game, to prove my work in the team.” said Maliksi.– Rappler.com

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'This is the sweetest': Maliksi puts historic Meralco title at top of all his championships - Rappler
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Olympian and former Pasig vice mayor Yoyong Martires passes away - GMA News Online

Filipino Olympian and former Pasig City vice mayor Rosalio "Yoyong" Martires passed away on Tuesday, June 18. He was 77.

"Masakit. Mabigat. Mahirap. Pero, tatanggapin ang bukas. Mahal kita Pa," Yoyong's son and Pasig City councilor Maro Martires wrote in a post.

In a previously public post, Yoyong's daughter Leah also announced the former player's passing.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Rosalio “Yoyong” D. Martires. He has peacefully joined our Creator yesterday, June 18, 2024. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones during this difficult time," Leah wrote in the caption of the said post.

"He lived a very adventurous and colorful life. A loving husband, a doting father, a caring grandpa, a self-made man, an Olympian, a prolific basketball player, a comedian, a devoted public servant, and a child of Christ. Difficult steps to follow, indeed. You served God, our country, and your fellow men. Rest in Peace, papa. We love you!"

In a post by Barangay San Miguel, Pasig City, Martires was remembered as "an extraordinary leader who dedicated his life to serving the people and making our city a better place."

"Konsi Yoyong Martires was a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on our community. His passion for public service, unwavering commitment, and tireless efforts have inspired generations of leaders and touched countless lives. Throughout his tenure, he worked diligently to address the needs and concerns of our fellow Pasigueño, always striving to create positive change and foster a sense of unity," the post said.

Martires was part of the Philippine basketball team to the 1972 Olympics in Munich. It was the last time that the country has qualified to the Summer Games for the said sport.

He also played in the PBA for the San Miguel Beermen.

He also served Pasig City as vice mayor from 2004 to 2013 and as a councilor from 1995 to 2004 and 2013 to 2022. 

—JKC, GMA Integrated News

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Storybook ending for Nenad Vucinic in PH return as Meralco claims historic crown - Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – The decision to bring back Nenad Vucinic has paid dividends for Meralco.

Tapped to be an active consultant, Vucinic helped the Bolts capture their first-ever PBA championship two years since he left the team as Meralco dethroned San Miguel for the Philippine Cup crown on Sunday, June 16.

“I really wanted to come back, to be with Meralco. Thank God that I got the call to come back,” said Vucinic, who called the shots alongside Bolts head coach Luigi Trillo.

Vucinic came to the country at the start of 2022 supposedly to serve as a consultant to former Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tab Baldwin – rekindling their ties forged when they were still with the New Zealand Tall Blacks.

Their reunion, however, fell through after Baldwin “stepped down” from his post, with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas handing Chot Reyes the coaching reins in January 2022 ahead of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

Vucinic said he wanted to leave but got persuaded by both Baldwin and Reyes to give it a shot.

The Serbian-Kiwi mentor stayed and even served as temporary national team head coach for the third window of the Asian Qualifiers due to Reyes’ commitment with his PBA team TNT.

Vucinic also joined Meralco as a consultant to former Bolts head coach Norman Black in May 2022.

But Vucinic ultimately vacated his posts at Meralco and Gilas Pilipinas in August 2022 and opted to return to New Zealand.

“At the time, there were some politics around Gilas. And I have to be honest, Tab Baldwin was the head of program at the time. I came because of him. He is my friend and I tried to help him,” said Vucinic.

“Then when he lost the job, I really wanted to go home. Coach Chot came to me and asked me to stay. I spoke to Coach Tab, he asked me to stay and help Coach Chot with Gilas because he really does have the Gilas program at heart.”

“I stayed. And then there were some issues. There were some public things between Coach Tab and Gilas. And I said, ‘Well, I could not stay here anymore.’ But I have full respect for the SBP, Gilas, and I wish them all the best now.”

Deep down, though, Vucinic grew so fond of the Philippines and its people that he wanted another crack at coaching in the country.

Fortunately for Vucinic, the Bolts acquired his services again in May 2023.

“I feel very comfortable here. I feel very comfortable because the people are good. They have values and they’re trying to do the best they can,” said Vucinic, who has coached in Estonia, Italy, China, Lebanon, and Japan.

“Players, whether it is Gilas or Meralco, they’re soldiers. They listen to the coaches, they respect the coaches, they respect the hierarchy.”

“I can tell you from my experience, I’ve been around the world, it is very difficult to have [those] these days. There is so much politics involved with players, their agents, even fans are involved.”

With Vucinic on board, Meralco managed to turn around an inauspicious start that saw the Bolts fall to 11th place after losing five of their first eight games before they ended the elimination round on a three-game winning streak.

In the playoffs, Meralco swept NLEX in their best-of-three quarterfinals then survived Barangay Ginebra in their best-of-seven semifinals that went the distance, with the Bolts finally beating the Gin Kings in a seven-game series.

Before this conference, Meralco lost each of its four previous appearances in the finals – all against Ginebra.

Tagged as a heavy underdog against the Beermen, the Bolts flipped the script behind their vaunted defense as they limited San Miguel to under 90 points in each of their four wins in the title duel.

Vucinic said the title would not have been possible without the players’ faith in the team.

“The thing is, when a new face comes in, especially a new face from across the world, and this team has been under huge pressure to get that championship, we struggled, I have to say,” said Vucinic.

“Credit to the players. They bought in. They worked hard, even if it was very hard for them to understand what they need to do.”

“We were down at the bottom. And players could easily turn their backs on the coaches, easily,” Vucinic added. “Credits, more than anybody, to the players who stuck with it and believed what we were teaching.” – Rappler.com

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'Not the end of the world': Fajardo tips hat to Meralco as San Miguel falls short of title repeat - Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – The reality is that June Mar Fajardo and mighty San Miguel will not always be on top.

The seven-time PBA MVP said the time has come for Meralco to win that elusive championship as the Bolts dethroned the Beermen for the Philippine Cup crown after completing their six-game conquest on Sunday, June 16.

Hoping to extend the best-of-seven finals to a decider, Fajardo and San Miguel were instead dealt a heartbreaking 80-78 loss in Game 6 at the Araneta Coliseum, where Meralco star Chris Newsome hit the game-winner.

“We should applaud those who deserve applause and congratulate those who deserve congratulations. It hurts but that is life. We’ve won championships, but maybe it is their time now,” said Fajardo in a mix of Filipino and English.

“Maybe this championship is destined for them. Let us congratulate Meralco because they really played well,” he added.

Fajardo put the Beermen on his back in a game where offensive-minded San Miguel bled for scoring as he finished with 21 points on top of 12 rebounds and 5 assists.

He almost sent the game to overtime when he tied the count at 78-78 with 3.3 seconds remaining by draining an unprecedented three-pointer.

The Bolts, though, held their nerve and delivered the killing blow courtesy of a signature baseline jumper from Newsome with 1.3 ticks left.

Getting one last crack at the victory, Fajardo missed his potential game-winning triple at the buzzer.

“We felt we could have won the championship and the series. But it is what it is. That is sports. We should accept when we lose,” said Fajardo, who captured a record-extend 10th Best Player of the Conference plum.

The defeat marked the first time the Beermen lost in an All-Filipino finals since the franchise drafted the 6-foot-10 Fajardo as the No. 1 pick in 2012.

San Miguel won a record five straight Philippine Cup titles from 2015 to 2019, then another one in 2023. The only times the team failed to rule, the All-Filipino tiff saw Fajardo saddled with injuries.

But Fajardo said life goes on.

“We should keep our heads up because it is not the end of the world for us. We have next conference to bounce back,” said Fajardo. – Rappler.com

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Championship and Finals MVP a fulfillment of Chris Newsome's promise to Meralco - ABS-CBN News

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‘They Must Think We Mr Beast': NBA Fans Express Shock at Ticket Prices for Celtics vs Mavericks Game 5 - PINKVILLA

The cost of tickets for Game 5 of the NBA Finals at the TD Garden has reached outrageous heights, as fans expect the Celtics to win the Larry O'Brien trophy for the first time since 2008.

Kyle Zorn from TickPick says Game 5 of the NBA Finals is Boston's most expensive sporting event. The average ticket price is $2,213 with the lowest price currently at about $1,175. The highest price paid for a ticket so far was $12,056.

Since 2018, when the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots won the World Series and the Super Bowl respectively, the city has been eagerly awaiting another championship. The Celtics last won in 2008 and the Bruins last won the Stanley Cup in 2011.

READ MORE: WATCH: Boston Celtics’ Fans Clash in Fist Fight at TD Garden After Game 4 NBA Finals Loss to Mavericks

Fans react to outrageous ticket prices for 2024 NBA finals Game 5 at TD Garden

Some fans believe the Boston Celtics played horribly in Game 4 because they wanted to ensure victory at the TD Garden in Game 5, while others think it's because of the financial benefits if the team wins at home.

One fan joked the courtside ticket prices will probably be close to 30k

“Courtsides probably 30K lmao”

“2k just to watch the mavericks get blown out wow” said another

Another commented, “Til those game seven prices roll in 👀”

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“they must think we mr beast” One fan joked

More humorous comments kept coming in, with another saying, “This would be hilarious if they lost”

“Mavs have a chance to do the funniest thing” said another,

Why the ticket prices for Game 5 of NBA finals 2024 have skyrocketed

The Celtics could have completed a series sweep against Dallas in Game 4, but the Mavericks fought hard and crushed Boston, 122-84, on Friday.

This is the third-largest winning margin in a finals game ever. Now, with the series returning to Boston for Game 5, many commentators believe the Celtics will defeat Dallas at home and secure their 18th championship.

As expected, those wanting to see the game in person will need to spend a lot of money. Kyle Zorn from TickPick recently revealed the costs fans will face if they want to watch the game live.

According to Zorn, the lowest ticket price on TickPick is a shocking $1,175. That is the price for just one ticket.

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Other ticket sellers have higher prices for the same ticket, including SeatGeek at $1,824, StubHub at $1,804, VividSeats at $1,795, and Ticketmaster at $1,845 each. According to Boston.com, the ticket prices for Game 1 alone were 37-38% higher than for Game 1 in 2023.

READ MORE: Who Is Jessica Campbell? All About NHL’s Potential First Female Full-Time Coach With Seattle Kraken

Celtics vs. Mavericks NBA Finals 2024, Game 5 details 

• Date: Monday, June 17 
• Time: 8:30 p.m. ET | 7:30 p.m. CT 
• Location: TD Garden in Boston

Following the Mavericks' first victory in the series, tickets are selling fast for what might be the decisive game. After all, it could be a chance to witness the Celtics win the NBA championship on their home court.

READ MORE: Stephen Curry Names LeBron James and Kevin Durant in Top 5 NBA Players of His Era; Find Out Who The Others Are

Mavericks outdid Celtics in Three-Pointers 

Three-point shooting has been a key advantage for the Celtics throughout the regular season and playoffs, especially given their skilled shooters.

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The Mavericks have struggled to find their rhythm with perimeter shooting in the first three games. They've averaged only 7.3 three-pointers made on 25 percent shooting, with Doncic and Irving experiencing difficulties shooting from beyond the arc as well.

Despite their star duo making a dismal 1-of-14 from three in Game 4, the Mavericks' bench contributed with 11 three-pointers. Doncic and Irving ultimately put up impressive numbers, combining for 50 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds.

With the Celtics consistently hitting at least 14 three-pointers in the series, the Mavericks will need to maximize their long-range shooting to match the opposing team's offense and attempt an epic comeback.

READ MORE: Who Is Cody Ford’s Ex-GF Tianna Robillard? All About TikTok Star Who Broke Up With NFL Star

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'Surreal' feeling for Trillo as Meralco wins first PBA title - GMA News Online

Finally, the Meralco Bolts are PBA champions.

After 14 years since joining the league, and four heartbreaking finals losses, the Bolts won the All-Filipino crown against a mighty San Miguel squad.

For head coach Luigi Trillo, it was surreal that Meralco finally won one.

"[It's] surreal for us. We've been together, we've been working closely together so I'm just proud of the way these guys battled through it. It was one of those series that was very close every game. It came down to the wire again," Trillo said in a post-game conference.

"They found a way, they kept on staying on and they showed some composure in that second half for us."

Trillo was the first to admit that the Bolts' road to the crown was not that smooth as bumps were present along the way. However, he is still proud of the fact that his players had to earn the title the hard way.

Before getting the crown, the Bolts finished third with six wins and five losses behind San Miguel and Barangay Ginebra.

Meralco then swept NLEX in the quarterfinals, then won against Barangay Ginebra in seven games in the semifinals.

In the finals series alone, most of the games went down wire-to-wire against the valiant Beermen.

"I'm proud the guys stepped up. We went through a lot of adversity, a lot of tough times, the playoffs game, Ginebra, and then San Miguel. For some of those guys, we're happy for them," Trillo said as some of his Meralco players like Cliff Hodge and Chris Banchero waited for more than a decade to be called PBA champions.

"It wasn't easy getting there. They've been through four finals appearances. A lot of pain. To gut it out this way, to really earn it, I'm saying about getting respect, it's very fulfilling for us." 

"We really had to earn this one."

This is Trillo's second PBA title as a head coach after steering the Alaska Aces to the 2013 Commissioner's Cup crown. He became the head coach for Meralco in May 2023.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News

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