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daisynik7 · 1 year

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“Into you” by Fabolous for Connie Springer- smut + fluff

(S4 connie ofc)

Into You

I think you’re truly something special, just what my dreams are really made of

Pairing: Connie Springer x f!reader

Rating: Explicit – MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

Word Count: ~2.4k

cw: super fluffy, kinda cheesy, college au, modern day au, lots of basketball terms (applies specifically to NCAA and NBA), explicit language, smut – PIV sex (cowgirl position), implied creampie

Summary: You and Connie Springer have been close since childhood, growing up as next-door neighbors and best friends. The bond the two of you share is undeniable, but you’ve never been able to admit how deep your feelings are, either to yourself or to him. You continue to support him as his friend while he pursues his career as a basketball player, trying to get drafted into the NBA. Though the journey has its ups and downs, one thing is for certain: The two of you will always have each other, forever and ever.

Author’s Notes: Hi anon! Thanks so much for requesting this song for the y2k karaoke party because it’s one of my FAVORITES! It really gives me Love & Basketball vibes, another favorite of mine that also happens to be a classic in the y2k era. This little fic is very loosely based off of that, so I hope you enjoy! Also, all the basketball/NBA tidbits are mostly from being with my boyfriend, who is a huge NBA fan, so yeah, sorry if any details are inaccurate lol. Likes, reblogs, and/or comments are always appreciated, thank you for reading and I hope you enjoy! MDNI banner credit to @/cafekitsune. Header image from Pinterest (Slam Dunk manga).

“You have to pinky promise, okay?” Connie sticks his tiny finger out, wiggling it in front of your face, sucking on his cherry-flavored lollipop, lips and tongue-stained red. You’re both five years old, sitting cross-legged in the front of his yard, taking a break from playing hide-and-seek.

“What am I pinky promising?” you ask, voice squeaky and curious.

“That we’ll be best friends forever and ever! No matter what!” he exclaims, beaming at you with his eyes wide, twinkling earnestly.

You only need to think for a few seconds before you’re hooking your pinky with his, committing to this promise for the rest of your lives.

~~~

Ten years later, Connie makes it on the varsity basketball team in your high school. It’s rare for a freshman to make it to varsity at Ragako; the coaches must have seen that spark in him that you and his family have witnessed since he started playing at ten-years-old. You used to shoot around with him out in his driveway, where his father set up a little hoop. Eventually, the little one got upgraded to a real one, where the height was adjusted appropriately as Connie grew. You became his practice partner, no longer able to compete with him. Instead, you passed him the ball, watching in awe as he made shot after shot, sometimes deep from the street. He’d pick you up and spin you around, the two of you cheering together, impressed by his skills.

Year after year, he only improved. The way he handled the ball, expertly dribbling it between his legs, behind his back, one-handed, without looking. Or the way his feet gracefully shuffled along the court, the distinct squeak from his shoes echoing off the walls as you watch him on the bleachers, playing three-on-three against some of his buddies at the gym. One time, his friend Jean teases you. “You know, you should stop hanging around here or else people might think you’re his groupie.”

Before you can think of a smart comeback, Connie interjects, shoving Jean hard in the arm. “Hey! Leave her alone. I want her here. I only play like this when she’s around. And she’s not a groupie. She’s my best friend.” He wraps his arm around your shoulders, leading you towards the exit while Jean sputters apologies that go ignored. “Sorry about that,” he whispers to you. “Jean is an asshole. I want you around, got it? Forever and ever.”

You smile, leaning into him. “Forever and ever.”

~~~

It’s at the championship game during senior year that you realize that you’re in love with Connie.

Scouts have already contacted him about full-ride scholarships to university, recruiting him for their team. He’s the most celebrated point-guard in your school’s history, his average points and assists per game breaking records. Ever since he joined, your school has made it in the final round each year, last year resulting in a win, this year leading to a second.

With seconds left on the shot clock, tie game, Ragako with possession, Connie makes his move. He inbounds the ball to his teammate, quickly taking position at the right wing, his sweet spot. As quickly as it leaves his hands, the ball is passed back to him. He shoots it, and as it flies out from his fingers into the air, the buzzer rings, and he makes it. The crowd goes wild; one side of the bleachers erupting into a frenzy, jumping up and down with excitement. Connie’s parents hug each other first, then surround you in their arms, elated. You don’t expect him to celebrate the win with you, not with his entire team huddling around him, splashing water on his head, cheering his name. Not with all the cheerleaders and fans gravitating toward him, eager to be in the presence of a sure-to-be star in the making. So, it surprises you when you see him maneuver his way through the crowd, heading straight towards you. He pounces on you, giving you the biggest, sweatiest hug with tears streaming down his face. It’s a split second where the surrounding noise goes blank and it’s just the two of you there, basking in each other’s warmth. Soon, his parents join you, also crying happily, and it’s in this moment that you realize this is where you want to be: with him. Forever and ever.

~~~

It's no surprise that the two of you attend the same college together. Most people will see it as you following him, but in actuality, Connie agrees to go wherever you go. Lucky for you both, your top choice is a D1 university where he’s offered a scholarship to play for their basketball team. It works out perfectly, as if it were meant to be.

He’s busy from the get-go, practicing every day until the season starts in November. You become preoccupied with classes, and naturally, the two of you travel your different paths, meeting in the middle whenever you can. When the season official starts, you attend all his home games, cheering for him from the sidelines surrounded by the other students also chanting his name. Weeknights, he’s often too tired to hang out, retreating to his dorm room to fall asleep, only to repeat his busy schedule again the next day. He grows close with his teammates, spending most of his time with them instead of you, which is to be expected. After all, you and Connie are just friends. Sure, you’re completely and madly in love with him, but he’ll never know that. So, you watch from afar as he pursues his career without you in the way. It’s the way it has to be.

By the time spring semester rolls around, you and Connie barely see each other. You’ll still text, sometimes video chat or talk on the phone. He mostly vents to you about teammates or coaches that have gotten on his nerves that day. He’ll catch you up on the other schools they’ve defeated or the ones that they’ve lost to. Your school’s record is quite good thanks to Connie, who’s only gotten better since high school. If they continue at this rate, they will win the conference tournament, meaning a trip to March Madness, the most prestigious competition in college basketball. Most importantly, it’s one step closer to the NBA.

As expected, the team does win the conference tournament. That night, the entire campus is lively with students buzzing in school spirit, ready to party the rest of the weekend. All you think about is calling Connie to congratulate him, hear his voice and tell him that you’re so proud of him. You debate with yourself for nearly fifteen minutes, staring at his name on your screen, fingers so close to dialing his number. You decide not to go through with it, certain that he’s too busy with his team, too busy with his fans. He’s not thinking about you, not when his whole world is about to change. And you can’t blame him; you’re just friends, and this is the way it has to be.

The following night, your school organizes an impromptu homecoming for the basketball team, welcoming them as they arrive on the bus, fresh from their championship win. They have a couple days of rest before they leave for the NCAA tournament, but you’re sure they’ll be busy with press and practice until then. You’re not there to greet them when they step off the bus; instead, you’re sulking in your room, buried under the covers, feeling sorry for yourself for ever falling in love with Connie Springer. It’s a sad, pathetic sight, but at least you’re alone for the weekend to do it while your roommate is out visiting her boyfriend out of town.

You’re surprised to see Connie’s name flash on your phone a few hours later. You let it ring twice before answering. “Hello?”

“Where are you?” he asks. There’s shuffling in the background, as if he’s walking outside.

“I’m in my room.”

“I’m coming over now.” He hangs up, not giving you any time to respond. You sigh, mentally preparing yourself for what’s to come.

When you open the door to let him in, he wraps his arms around you in a snug embrace. “I missed you.” He pulls off to hold you by the arms, glaring. “Why didn’t you greet me off the bus?”

“I…” you start, unsure how to respond.

“I was looking for you and you weren’t there. Where were you?”

“I was studying in the library.” This might be the first time you’ve ever lied to him. You feel guilty and gross.

“Oh,” he says sadly, still staring at you.

“Congratulations, by the way. It was an amazing win.” You give him a weak smile, blinking away the tears welling in your eyes. You don’t even know why you’re crying; Connie did nothing wrong. You’re letting your emotions get the best of you, and you can’t help but crumble in front of the only person who knows you better than you know yourself.

“I don’t care about that right now. I care about you. What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing, Connie, I promise.”

“Don’t promise me shit like that. I know you’re upset. Tell me. Please.” His eyes search yours, desperate for an answer.

You look at his feet, fixating on his shoes, scuffed on the sides from playing. Tears start to drop from your face and on the carpet. “I just…I missed you too. I miss you, Connie. I…I love you.” The confession slips from your mouth in a sniffle, and you’re so upset with yourself for letting it slide in this crucial moment. Neither of you needs the drama of your unrequited love right now. Not you, knowing he’ll be leaving again soon, and especially not him, who has bigger and better things to focus on.

He gapes at you, stuttering, “You love me?”

You nod, biting your lip.

“Like, love love? Or love like a friend?”

You’re tempted to lie, just to make it easier. But you owe it to Connie to be honest with him. “Love love.”

His mouth is open, eyes bugging out, completely shocked by your admission. Before he can respond, you add, “I’m sorry, Connie. I shouldn’t have told you this right before the tournament, but…I don’t know. It just came out. I’m sorry.”

He stammers, “You’re sorry? This is the best fucking thing I’ve heard in my entire life.” He breaks into a smile, laughing hysterically, an even more bizarre reaction.

You cross your arms, getting impatient with his ridiculous behavior, eventually grabbing his shoulders to shake him out of his fit. “Connie, what the hell?!”

He wipes his eyes, crying from giggling, beaming at you. “I’ve been in love with since we were kids. Been dreaming of hearing you say that since we were five-years-old.” He hugs you tightly, nuzzling his nose to the top of your head. “I love you and I want to be with you. Forever and ever, right?”

You nestle into his chest, inhaling the familiar scent you missed since he’s been gone. “Forever and ever.”

~~~

The two of you spend the night together, making love for the first time. His lips are soft against yours, and you smile into his kiss, remembering the day you pinky promised that you’ll be best friends forever and ever, no matter what. His lips were stained red with cherry-flavored candy, looking sickly sweet as he smiled at you. And as you kiss him now, he tastes just as sweet as you imagined he’d be after all these years.

You kiss him sloppy as you ride his lap, his cock buried deep in your pussy, filling you up to the brim. He moans your name into your mouth as he laps at the saliva collecting on your tongue, slurping your spit, swallowing it thickly. “Fuck,” he groans, hands gripped to your hips, rocking you back and forth on his thighs. “I’ve dreamed about this for so long, baby. So long.”

“Me too,” you whisper, starting to bounce on him, close to your climax.

“What would you think about? Tell me,” he demands, thumb pressed to your clit, rubbing it raw.

You whine from his touch, increasing your pace, resting your head on his shoulder. “You and me, just like this,” you huff, short of breath.

“Yeah? You thought about me deep inside you, huh? Fucking this sweet pussy until you come all over my cock, huh?” He thrusts up into you, grip tightening, fingers digging into your flesh. He’s close too, you can feel it.

You moan into his skin, sweat beading on your forehead, throwing your ass back against him in tandem with each pump of his cock. A few more strokes and the two of you come together, the mess spilling onto the sheets as soon as he pulls out.

He wipes you down with tissues and baby wipes you have handy on your bedside drawer. As soon as you’re both clean, he cradles you in his arms, spooning you from behind.

“I know this is going to sound super cheesy, but I truly feel like a winner now,” he says, kissing the nape of your neck.

You chuckle, squeezing his hand in yours. “Wait until you win March Madness. Then you’ll really be a champ.”

“Even if I lose, I’ll still have you. And that’s been my dream all this time.”

You shift your body to face him, gazing into his eyes. “I thought your dream was to make it into the NBA?”

He smiles, booping you on the nose. “It’s part of the dream, sure. But I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am now if it wasn’t for you. You kept me going all these years. Knowing you were always on my side gave me the strength I needed to get here. As long as I have you, I’ll be living the dream.” He kisses you on the forehead. “I’m going to love you for the rest of our lives.”

“Forever and ever?”

“Forever and ever.”

~~~

In an upset, your school loses in the Final Four. It’s the furthest they’ve gotten in university history, and a large part of that is due to Connie and his extraordinary performance as their point guard. His efforts do not go unnoticed; his coaches and many prospective agents have contacted him, encouraging him to apply for the NBA draft.

June of the same year, Connie Springer is drafted tenth in the first round and you’re sitting right beside him with his parents, cheering for him. Just as you have throughout all these years, and just as you will for the rest of your lives. Forever and ever.

#connie springer #connie springer smut #connie springer x reader #connie springer x you #connie springer x y/n #Connie springer fluff #connie smut #connie x reader #Connie x you #aot smut #aot fluff #attack on titan fluff #attack on titan smut #y2k karaoke party #milestone event

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slamdunkhcs · 2 years

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the success of slam dunk

Something I often hear from others is that “Slam Dunk is underrated”. To an extent, this is true. The series isn’t very talked about among younger fans of manga, and newer sports series such as Haikyuu are mentioned more by younger fans. However, Slam Dunk is not underrated in the slightest. Its numbers of copies sold worldwide (170 million copies, making it the seventh best selling manga of all time) speaks for itself, but in this essay I want to break down both the numbers and impact that truly show Slam Dunk’s success.

During the time of the series' publishing in Shonen Jump, Japan had been going through an economic fall. The Japanese economy suffered a prolonged recession that followed the collapse of the economic success of the 80’s. Corporations had stopped hiring new employees in order to maintain their current ones. This meant that many people were out of work, and it led to high unemployment. While this doesn’t directly affect Inoue, it puts lots of pressure on his manga to do well. After all, if he couldn’t make something that sold, he was out of a job. He had also stated that his editors were against him making a basketball manga due to it being unknown in the country, yet he did it regardless — despite knowing that he could easily be out of a job and face the financial difficulties many others were facing throughout the 90’s.

Throughout the 90’s, basketball wasn't very known in Japan. The NBA was at its peak in popularity, but this popularity didn’t translate to Japan. Baseball and soccer were far more known sports in Japan, and so Inoue was faced with the task of introducing basketball to his readers. (He did a good job of this). Slam Dunk starts off more comedic and casual compared to an intense sports series, and this was done to appeal to a wider audience. In fact, some of the most popular chapters and episodes at the time had been the gym fight arc, which didn’t exactly have much to do with basketball. But as the series progressed, Inoue was faced with two choices; to continue with the writing structure that was selling, or to double down on the basketball aspect of the series and risk alienating and losing his audience.

But instead of backing down, Inoue decided to take the risk. The story became more and more basketball focused, but he didn’t alienate his audience. In fact, the story was becoming more and more popular. At the time, it contended with Dragon Ball Z, and at times was even outselling.

The apex of the series’ popularity had been towards the end of its serialization in 1995-1996, throughout the Shohoku vs Sannoh match. And then… it ended. Inoue’s editors wanted him to continue the series as it was one of the magazine’s best selling, but instead, he just left. A complete power move. The series had lots of material that could have been used to continue the series, such as what happened to Shohoku (particularly Sakuragi) after the Sannoh match, him getting the girl, him becoming an even better player. I think that Inoue knew the series could have been even bigger if he had continued, but I also believe that it ended where it needed to. If Slam Dunk had been dragged longer, it may have gotten stale, and it might not have been as beloved as it is right now. Additionally, Inoue’s other big titles such as Vagabond or REAL don’t have endings due to long hiatus, and it’s possible that Slam Dunk may have faced similar treatment.

Aside from its overall sales, another interesting metric that encapsulates Slam Dunk’s success is its sales per volume estimate.

Slam Dunk being second only to One Piece (the best selling manga of all time) highlights just how successful it is.

Additionally, here is a sales chart of the best selling manga in September 2022. The fact Slam Dunk places here despite being a series that has been completed for over 25 years speaks for itself.

The series is very impressive sales wise already, but another component on just how successful Slam Dunk is its cultural impact in Japan. I already stated Inoue was forced with the task of introducing basketball to Japan. And to say he introduced it to them would be an understatement; it can be said that Slam Dunk popularized the sport.

Around the 90’s, while basketball was at its peak in popularity due to the NBA, Japan didn’t pick up on this. Baseball and football were still far more popular. As I said before, Inoue was tasked to introduce basketball to his readers.

Introduced is an understatement, and Inoue’s story actually increased enrollment in basketball among Japanese youth. In fact, throughout 1990-1995, around one million Japanese high schoolers were playing basketball as an extracurricular. And when Slam Dunk ended its serialization, this number dropped again.

Additionally, when the NBA came to Japan during the time the series was being published, the stadiums for their games were packed. This adds onto just how much more popular basketball was getting in Japan. And even now, it can be said basketball is a much popular sport in Japan.

But he didn’t just introduce the game itself; he also showed the culture surrounded by basketball.

Basketball culture is another prominent thing shown in Slam Dunk, from the boys hooping in Jordans, the baggy clothes they wear, to the sneakerhead culture. Inoue bridged 90’s American culture to Japan, and he made it a thing among Japanese youth.

Something else I want to note is that Nike allowed for Inoue’s use of their products in the manga. On my initial read, this surprised me, since I figured that Nike would have copyrighted the series. However, the reason they allowed for Inoue’s display of their products was because it essentially advertised their products to the Japanese market. In fact, Jordan’s and Nike’s sneakers had a massive increase in Japanese sales throughout the series’ publication (particularly the shoes worn by Sakuragi and Rukawa). Additionally, Nike also had a collaboration with Inoue to make red Jordan’s with Slam Dunk’s panels.

The series wasn’t known in just Japan, but throughout other Asian countries such as South Korea, China, and The Philippines. And as a result, basketball got popularized in these countries as well. If you were to ask anyone from there from around the 80’s-90’s, it’d be difficult to not find a Slam Dunk reader.

Throughout all this, I firmly believe that Slam Dunk isn’t underrated. It is arguably one of the most influential mangas, and easily one of the most successful.

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prettyhennytea · 1 month

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Curry’s Clutch Performance Seals Olympic Gold for Team USA

The French team refused to yield, absorbing every blow the Americans delivered. With the lead cut to a mere three points, the Olympic gold medal game hung in the balance.

In the face of mounting pressure, Stephen Curry stepped up. Three after three, he drained shots with an almost supernatural accuracy. His final three-pointer, launched with a seemingly impossible arc, silenced the Parisian crowd and sealed the deal.

“At that point, your mind goes blank,” Curry reflected on his game-winning shot. “It’s just a shot.”

But it was much more than that. It was a shot that will likely be etched in Olympic history, propelling the U.S. to a 98-87 victory and their fifth consecutive gold medal.

Curry, at 36, delivered when it mattered most, scoring 12 of his 24 points in the final three minutes. He was supported by the ever-reliable Lebron James, who at 39, showcased his all-around brilliance with 14 points, 10 assists, 6 rebounds, a steal and a block.

“He’s the best shooter to ever live,” teammate Devin Booker said of Curry. “Got a hot player, you’ve got to keep finding him.”

This was Curry’s Olympic debut and it couldn’t have ended better. Despite early struggles, he proved indispensable in the semifinal against Serbia and the final game against France.

The French team, led by the young phenom Victor Wembanyama, put up a valiant fight. They were physical, confident, and relentless. But every time they narrowed the gap, another American star rose to the occasion. Kevin Durant with a three-pointer, Anthony Davis with a thunderous dunk, Lebron James with his signature magic, and Curry with his deadly accuracy from beyond the arc.

Coach Steve Kerr’s strategy of leveraging the team’s depth paid off. The Americans’ constant rotation of NBA All-Stars proved too much for the French to handle.

While the world is catching up in men’s basketball, the U.S. still reigns supreme. The French, with the promising Wembanyama at the helm, may one day challenge that dominance. But on this night, it was Curry and Team USA who stood tall, their gold medals gleaming under the Parisian lights.

#2024 olympics #paris 2024 #usa olympics #olympic basketball #lebron lakers #stephen curry #kevin durant #nba basketball #steve kerr

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projazznet · 4 months

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Wayman Tisdale – Hang Time

The former NBA all-star returns to titling his musical projects after expressions from his previous line of work – and, consistent with those, comes up with a funk-drenched smooth jazz slam dunk once again. One of the few bassists to make it mainstream in the genre by playing those low tones like a regular guitar, Wayman Tisdale mixes up the hardcore grooves (as on the seductive opening “Ready to Hang,” which features infectious wordless vocals, and the slick, slow jamming title track) with lighter, more contemplative fare like “Better Days,” which features the wistful soprano of label co-owner Dave Koz. The always dependable Jeff Lorber is on hand, co-writing and co-producing three mid-tempo retro-soul-minded tracks, the best of which, “Creative Juices,” features Tisdale’s playful aggression tempered by the keyboardist’s colorful Fender Rhodes. The first single chosen is a fun-filled cover of the disco classic “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now,” with Tisdale’s jumpy verses complemented by a brass-intensive chorus. Between genre releases, Tisdale independently released the gospel recording 21 Days, which featured “Glory Glory,” the soulful, spiritual-minded track chosen to close the new set. Tisdale once again makes it fun to dance along and just hang (Jonathan Widran/AllMusic).

#waymantisdale #bass #smoothjazz #crossoverjazz #projazznet #projazz

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female-malice · 2 years

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Isaac Humphries

One of the best feelings in the world is playing a game of professional basketball while on peak form.

You get to perform in front of nearly 10,000 people a night; they’re cheering your name, they’re wearing your jersey. And all while you throw down a powerful dunk and flex to the crowd.

Well, it should be the best feeling in the world, right? And for a brief moment, I guess it was.

That was in 2020. I was 22 and playing with the Adelaide 36ers, two years before signing with my current team, Melbourne United.

Now imagine what happens when all of that adrenalin comes to an end after a game. For me, the euphoria was gone the moment I drove out of the arena. I’d get home to my apartment in Adelaide’s coastal suburb of Henley Beach, and be all alone.

I felt I had no choice but to be by myself. That’s when my wave of depression would hit the hardest.

Over my entire career, there was no reality that existed where I could be an openly gay man while playing basketball. Until now.

I’ve played everywhere – Kentucky, the NBA, Europe, the Australian national team – and it’s all the same: for the most part, being an athlete at that level is about making money, dating girls and being the best basketball player you can be.

So I fell in line, no matter how awkward and weird I felt doing it. I just wanted to fit in and not draw any attention to myself. There were almost no examples of a male pro basketball player doing anything other than that, so I was resigned to the fact that my true life would start after I retired.

My depression got so bad that the idea of not making it to retirement became a very real possibility.

There was a night toward the end of 2020 where my loneliness, self-hate and shame finally took its toll, and I decided it would hurt less to take my own life. I had unfortunately decided it was the end. It was only when I woke up the next morning when I realized what I hadn’t done.

I ended up starting that season like nothing was wrong. But midway through it, some previous leg injuries caught up with me. I was shut down for the remainder of the season and most of the following one too.

Simple things like standing up from a chair or walking up a flight of stairs – let alone any explosive movement while playing – became almost impossible.

Part of the fix was following my strength and conditioning coach, Nik Popovic, to Los Angeles to continue my rehab. We had originally set up shop in Sydney to get through my rehab but he had just gotten a new gig at the University of Southern California; he’s the best in the business so the only way for me to continue making progress in fixing my knee was to join him over there.

LA has always been my favorite place in the world. On top of my basketball career, I’m also a musician, so I’ve been really fortunate to have spent a lot of time there and develop a network of friends and peers.

Being in LA over the years also gave me my first ever experiences seeing members of the LGBTQ+ community in a positive light.

Growing up in Australia, I went to an all-male private school from about the age of 13, where there was an unspoken expectation that everyone was straight – and that was the end of the conversation. Throw in the competitive sports world I was part of, and there were really no avenues for me to see members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Things didn’t change when I became a pro basketball player; LGBTQ+ representation had rarely ever been there in top-tier male-dominated sports, where it’s generally seen as a negative point of difference. Anyone who’s ever been in a locker room understands the sentiments that float around. There’s the unintentional derogatory slang, and ridiculing anything with a gay connotation.

In LA, it was completely different. I was around some of the most successful people in the world – everyone from musicians, television and film producers, media personalities, A-list celebrities – and got to see that being openly gay can come with joy.

For the first time in my life, I saw that people at the top of their game can be open and honest about who they are, and that came with a visceral and contagious happiness.

So while in LA in 2021 to fix my injuries, I also got to experience more of being around the LGBTQ+ community. It was mostly through making friends who were openly gay and unequivocally themselves – shame wasn’t even a consideration.

I learned so much about the experiences people in our community go through, and was shocked at the number of stories that were eerily similar to mine.

I saw that being open about who you are can be the most freeing thing a person can ever do. Being gay didn’t come with shame anymore; it came with liberation.

No one was hiding who they were. And it made for the happiest, most positive environment I didn’t realize existed.

That’s what I hope sports can become. I want it to be a place where anyone can strive to be amazing, without fearing backlash just for who you are.

You can be a gay man and an elite basketball player in one of the best leagues in the world. I’m living proof of that.

My journey to get to this point in my life was harder than it should’ve been, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. Without those dark points, I wouldn’t have been thrust into situations where I had to explore, discover and learn to accept who I really am.

If there are negative aspects that come with my decision to come out, I’ll take those barbs so others don’t have to; as long as it means we make progress along the way and kids in particular feel they can be whoever they want.

I’m so fortunate to be able to do this with this Melbourne United team. It says a lot about the club that I really do feel so comfortable doing this with them. To other sports teams out there, create environments that are welcoming to people of different sexualities, faiths, races. Not only is it the right thing to do, but I promise you’ll get the most out of every person in your organization for it.

I’d also encourage a bit more empathy across the board. A comment here or there might seem funny in the moment, and a sentiment that could be considered anti-gay might appear harmless in the grand scheme of things – but you never know who might be in the room with you and how it might affect that person.

I know what it feels like to grow up in an environment that doesn’t feel welcoming, and I want to do my part to make sure basketball is no longer one of them.

#go Isaac!!!

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lboogie1906 · 1 month

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Kobe Bean Bryant (August 23, 1978 – January 26, 2020) was a basketball player. A shooting guard, he spent his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, he won five NBA championships, was an 18-time All-Star, a 15-time member of the All-NBA Team, and a 12-time member of the All-Defensive Team, the 2008 NBA MVP, and a two-time NBA Finals MVP. He led the NBA in scoring twice and ranks fourth in the league’s all-time regular season and postseason scoring. He was posthumously voted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.

He was born in Philadelphia and partly raised in Italy. He is the only son of Pamela Cox Bryant and former NBA player Joe Bryant. He was the nephew of NBA player John “Chubby” Cox. His parents named him after the famous beef of Kobe, Japan, which they saw on a restaurant menu. His middle name, Bean, was derived from his father’s nickname “Jellybean.” Recognized as the top American high-school basketball player while at Philadelphia suburb Lower Merion, He declared for the 1996 NBA draft and was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the 13th overall pick; he was then traded to the Lakers. He earned a reputation as a high-flyer by winning the Slam Dunk Contest and was named an All-Star in his second season.

He made his acting debut appearing on Moesha. He guest starred as himself on of Arli$$, In The House, and Sister, Sister. He appeared on Hang Time and All That. He was the subject of Kobe Doin’ Work.

He was the first African-American to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film and the first former professional athlete to be nominated and win an Academy Award in any category for his film Dear Basketball. The film won the Annie Award for Best Animated Short Subject and a Sports Emmy Award. It was produced by his production company, Granity Studios.

He wrote, produced, and hosted Detail, which aired for multiple seasons. He appeared on Ridiculousness.

He married Vanessa Lane. They had four daughters, Natalia “Nani”, Gianna (who died with him), Bianka, and Capri. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

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jamesh07 · 2 months

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Court Kings: The Best Basketball Players Ever and Their Game-Changing Plays

Basketball has seen many legends grace the hardwood, but the debate on who stands as the top basketball player ever continues to inspire passionate discussions among fans and analysts alike. From awe-inspiring dunks to clutch game-winning shots, these players have not only defined eras but have also raised the bar for excellence in basketball. This blog delves into the careers of ten iconic players, examining their most game-changing plays and enduring legacies.

1. Michael Jordan: The Shot

Michael Jordan's illustrious career is punctuated with many defining moments, but "The Shot" over Craig Ehlo in the 1989 playoffs encapsulates his clutch prowess. This buzzer-beater not only clinched the series for the Chicago Bulls but also marked Jordan as a clutch performer, setting the stage for his future championships.

2. LeBron James: The Block

In Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, LeBron James' incredible chase-down block on Andre Iguodala was a turning point that helped lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first-ever championship. This play exemplified LeBron's all-around abilities and his clutch gene in high-stakes situations.

3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: The Skyhook

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's skyhook was not just a signature move; it was an unstoppable force throughout his career. His mastery of this shot made him the NBA's all-time leading scorer and left a lasting imprint on the game.

4. Larry Bird: The Steal

Larry Bird's steal from Isiah Thomas in the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals remains one of the most iconic plays in NBA history. Bird's instinctual read and subsequent pass to Dennis Johnson for the winning basket highlighted his unparalleled basketball IQ and clutch performance.

5. Magic Johnson: The Baby Hook

In the 1987 NBA Finals, Magic Johnson's "baby hook" over the Boston Celtics’ defenders in Game 4 is a historic moment. This play not only solidified Magic's reputation as a versatile player but also helped the Lakers claim another championship.

6. Bill Russell: 11 Championships

While specific plays may not define Bill Russell's career, his 11 NBA championships in 13 seasons are a testament to his dominance and winning mentality. Russell's defensive prowess and leadership were central to the Boston Celtics' dynasty.

7. Shaquille O'Neal: The Alley-Oop Slam in 2000 Finals

Shaquille O'Neal's powerful alley-oop dunk from Kobe Bryant during the 2000 NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers epitomized the dominance of the Lakers' duo. This play is a highlight of Shaq's overwhelming physical presence on the court.

8. Tim Duncan: The 2005 Finals Clincher

Tim Duncan’s calm demeanor belied his fierce competitiveness, best illustrated by his near-quadruple-double performance in the clinching game of the 2005 NBA Finals. Duncan's ability to impact every facet of the game made him a cornerstone for the Spurs' success.

9. Kobe Bryant: 81 Points

Kobe Bryant's 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006 remains one of the greatest individual performances in NBA history. This scoring explosion underscored Kobe's talent and relentless work ethic.

10. Stephen Curry: The Game-Winner from Half Court

Stephen Curry's game-winning half-court shot against the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2016 solidified his status as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. This moment is emblematic of how Curry has changed the game with his deep-range shooting.

Conclusion

Each of these players has a legitimate claim to the title of the best basketball player ever, having left an indelible mark on the sport with their unique skills and memorable plays. Their legacies endure not just in the records they set or the championships they won, but in the moments of sheer brilliance that captured the imaginations of fans around the world.

#basketball #nba players #basketball players

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nylonsutapablog · 2 months

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The Future of AI in Sports: Performance Analysis and Training

In a sport that has always been dominated by human skill and intuition, the use of AI to enhance performance and optimize preparation is revolutionizing how athletes train. AI is being used to analyze player data and provide a variety of new insights. It is helping teams gain a clearer understanding of their opponents and develop tactics to exploit their weaknesses. It is also reducing the risk of injury and improving rehabilitation programs that help players return to action sooner.

This technology is already being utilized by top-tier clubs across the globe. The NFL has been using it to improve player analysis and the NBA is incorporating it into its scouting process. It is also being used to create virtual reality environments for training and player development.

It is not only transforming athlete performance, but also fan engagement and the way games are judged. The Forbes Technology Council is an Who are techogle? invitation-only community of world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives. To learn more, apply for membership today.

AI has the power to make coaches more effective as they can track and assess a player’s movement patterns, muscle activity, body posture, and other factors that may be related to injuries. It can also predict a player’s injury risks and create training regimens that specifically target their weaknesses. This data-driven, customized approach to training frequently outperforms conventional approaches.

The data generated by AI systems can be analyzed in real-time, and this is particularly helpful for teams during high-pressure games. It helps them identify potential problems in their game plans and quickly make adjustments to avoid costly mistakes. It can also be used to improve decision making by analyzing the chances of different outcomes based on historical play-by-play data.

One of the biggest technology information challenges in elite sport is ensuring that all athletes are healthy and fit to compete. This is a challenge that AI is uniquely suited to address. It can help monitor an athlete’s health and wellbeing, including sleep quality, diet and weight management. It can even detect signs of illness or injury and suggest a treatment plan.

Another way that AI is transforming sports is by predicting the best players for any given role. This can help minimize uncertainties during the recruitment process and allow sports companies to manage their budgets more effectively. It can also help determine the ROI on specific players prior to signing multi-million dollar contracts.

One of the most exciting applications of AI in sports is enabling fans to experience unique, immersive experiences in virtual reality and augmented reality. This is allowing them to relive their favorite sporting moments from multiple angles and perspectives – from watching a soccer goal from inside the goal to seeing a basketball dunk from above the hoop. This technology is changing how fans engage with their favorite sports events and could soon be a standard part of the stadium experience. It also provides a level of interactivity that can’t be matched by traditional television broadcasts.

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gymleadernz · 3 months

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Ballin' on a Budget? Best Affordable In-Ground Hoops in NZ

Hey there, hoop enthusiasts! Are you ready to take your backyard game to the next level without breaking the bank? You're in the right place. Today, we’re diving into the best in-ground basketball hoops NZ that won't empty your wallet. Whether you’re looking to shoot some solo hoops or host epic neighborhood matches, we’ve got the perfect picks for you.

Why Choose an In-Ground Basketball Hoop?

In-ground basketball hoops offer stability, durability, and a professional feel that portable hoops just can’t match. They’re a fantastic investment for families, aspiring players, or anyone who loves the game. Here’s why you should consider an in-ground hoop:

Stability: No more wobbling when you dunk!

Durability: Withstands harsh weather conditions.

Professional Experience: Feel like you’re playing on a real court.

What to Look for in an Affordable In-Ground Hoop

When shopping for the best in-ground basketball hoop in NZ, keep an eye out for these key features:

Sturdy Pole Construction: Look for hoops with solid steel poles.

Quality Backboard: Tempered glass is ideal, but acrylic and polycarbonate are great budget-friendly options.

Adjustable Height: Perfect for all ages and skill levels.

Easy Installation: Some models come with straightforward installation instructions and kits.

Top Picks for Best In-Ground Basketball Hoop NZ

1. Lifetime 71281 In-Ground Power Lift Basketball System

The Lifetime 71281 is a popular choice for those seeking a balance of quality and affordability. It features a 52-inch steel-framed backboard, which is shatterproof and designed to withstand tough play.

Price: Around $700 NZD

Backboard: Shatterproof polycarbonate

Height Adjustment: Power Lift mechanism for easy height changes from 7.5 to 10 feet

Installation: Comes with clear instructions and all necessary hardware

2. Spalding NBA In-Ground Basketball System

Spalding is a name synonymous with basketball, and their in-ground system does not disappoint. This model offers a pro-style performance with a budget-friendly price tag.

Price: Approximately $900 NZD

Backboard: 54-inch acrylic backboard with arena-style padding

Height Adjustment: U-Turn lift system adjusts from 7.5 to 10 feet

Installation: Moderate difficulty, but the instructions are comprehensive

3. Goalrilla GS54 In-Ground Basketball Hoop

For those willing to spend a bit more for exceptional quality, the Goalrilla GS54 is a top contender. Known for its durability and performance, this hoop is perfect for serious players.

Price: About $1,200 NZD

Backboard: 54-inch tempered glass

Height Adjustment: Easy-to-use crank actuator from 7.5 to 10 feet

Installation: Professional installation recommended for best results

Tips for Installing Your In-Ground Basketball Hoop

Choose the Right Spot: Ensure there’s enough space for gameplay and that the ground is level.

Follow Instructions Carefully: Read through the manual before starting to avoid any mistakes.

Consider Professional Help: If you’re not confident in your DIY skills, hiring a professional can save time and ensure the hoop is installed correctly.

Conclusion

Investing in the best in-ground basketball hoop NZ can transform your outdoor space into a basketball haven. Whether you're a casual player or an aspiring pro, there’s an affordable option out there for you. Remember to consider the key features, compare prices, and choose a hoop that fits your needs and budget. Happy hooping, and may your shots always be nothing but net!

If you’ve got any questions or want to share your own hooping experiences, drop a comment below. Let’s keep the conversation going and help each other find the best in-ground basketball hoop NZ has to offer!

Source By - https://tinyurl.com/49x5vnsu

#BasketballSystem #InGroundBasketballHoop #BasketballHoopForSchools

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seowob · 5 months

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"You can't be afraid to fail. It's the only way you succeed - you're not gonna succeed all the time, and I know that." LeBron Raymone James March 26 2009

On december 30, 1984 in Akron Ohio U.S. one of the Greatest Basketball Player was born, and it was LeBron Raymone James

Notably the awards he had won in his career are :

NBA

4× NBA champion: 2012, 2013, 2016, 2020

4× NBA Finals Most Valuable Player: 2012, 2013, 2016, 2020

4× NBA Most Valuable Player: 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013

20× NBA All-Star: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024

3× NBA All-Star Game MVP: 2006, 2008, 2018

19× All-NBA selection:

13× First team: 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020

3× Second team: 2005, 2007, 2021

3× Third team: 2019, 2022, 2023

6× NBA All-Defensive selection:

5× First Team: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

Second Team: 2014

NBA Rookie of the Year: 2004

NBA All-Rookie First Team: 2004

NBA scoring leader: 2008

NBA assists leader: 2020

3× NBA minutes leader: 2007, 2017, 2018

J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award: 2017

NBA Cup winner: 2023

NBA Cup Most Valuable Player: 2023

United States National Team

Cited from USA Basketball's LeBron James page unless noted otherwise.[2]

3× Olympic medalist:

2× Gold: 2008, 2012

Bronze: 2004

FIBA World Cup medalist:

Bronze: 2006

FIBA AmeriCup medalist:

Gold: 2007

USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year: 2012,[3] 2008 (as a part of the 2008 Olympic Team)

High school

National Basketball champion: 2003

3× State champion: 2000, 2001, 2003

2× Gatorade National Player of the Year: 2002, 2003

2× Mr. Basketball USA: 2002, 2003

2× USA Today High School Player of the Year: 2002, 2003

3× Ohio Mr. Basketball: 2001, 2002, 2003

3× USA Today All-USA First Team: 2001, 2002, 2003

2× PARADE High School Player of the Year: 2002, 2003

2× First-team Parade All-American: 2002, 2003

Second-team Parade All-American: 2001

Gatorade Male Athlete of the Year: 2003

Naismith Prep Player of the Year: 2003[5]

McDonald's National Player of the Year: 2003[6]

McDonald's High School All-American: 2003[7]

McDonald's Slam Dunk Contest (Powerade Jam Fest): 2003[8]

McDonald's All-American Game MVP: 2003

EA Sports Roundball Classic MVP: 2003[9]

Jordan Brand Capital Classic MVP: 2003[9]

Morgan Wootten National Player of the

Year: 2003

Other

Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year: 2012,[10] 2016

Sporting News Athlete of the Year: 2012[11]

Sporting News NBA MVP: 2006[12]

Sporting News Rookie of the Year: 2004[13]

Sports Illustrated NBA All-Decade First Team: 2000–2009[14]

7× Best NBA Player ESPY Award: 2007, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2018[15][16][17]

3× Best Male Athlete ESPY Award: 2012, 2013, 2016[17]

Best Breakthrough Athlete ESPY Award: 2004[18]

4× Best Championship Performance ESPY Award: 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016[17]

6× BET Sportsman of the Year: 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2013[19][20][21][22][23]

3× Associated Press Athlete of the Year: 2013, 2016, 2018

2× Hickok Belt: 2012, 2013

Jackie Robinson Sports Award: 2017[24]

These may seem alot but the lists goes on and on, Lebron is ranked top 2 on "75 NBA players of all time just behind jordan, but lets talk about where this all started.

A young LeBron James was locally known as a basketball prodigy ever since in elementary school, he was named Ohio's Mr. Baskrtball (hs player of the year) three times while leading Akrons St. Vincent Mary High School to three state championships in his four years on the team. He was a national media sensation in his young year after showing up on Sports Illustrated where he was named by the magazine as "The Chosen One." In 2003 he was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers as the first overall in 2003 NBA draft, and he would sign a $90 million contract with Nike shoe company. As he started in Cleveland Caveliers alot of pressure went on by him, but he didnt get affected by it and he lead the team in scoring, steals and minutes played over 2003-04 season, and winning ROTY (rookie of the year) In 2004-2005 he became a starting forward on the Eastern Conference All Star Team, in 2006-2007 LeBron James led Cleveland to the NBA finals, the cavaliers were swept by the San Antonio Spurs but James postswason led many observers to place him in the very best players in the league. He held the NBA in scoring in 2007-2008 season and earned first team ALL NBA honours, in 2008-2009 he achieved the leagues MVP following the season he averaged nearly 30PPG and named MVP again. In 2009-2010 he went to the Miami Heat which had D Wade and Bosh, he helped miami reach the finals but lost to the Dallas Mavericks, in 2011-2012 he averaged 27.1 PPG and won his third mvp, this time he defeated OKC Thunder and won the championship and reigned as the finals MVP, in 2012-2013 he averaged 26.8 PPG, 7.3 APG and a career high 8 RPG while posting .565 field goal percentage. The heat went in the finals again, Lebron rematching with the spurs but they lost again in the five game series. In 2014 he went back to the cavs and faced the greatest threats at his time, the Golden State Warriors, theyre dynasty was starting with the players, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, Draymond Green, Klay Thompson and DeMarcus Cousins, LeBron averaged 35.8 PPG, 13.3 RPG and 8.8 APG but managed to lose to the Dynasty. In 2015-16 in the finals, Cleveland and Warriors face again, Warriors needed one win left to win the championship since it was 3-1 but LeBron overturned it and made it 3-4 Lebron won the championship. After doing that LeBron currently staying in the Los Angeles Lakers, he won another championship.

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andybondurant · 5 months

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New Post has been published on Andy Bondurant

New Post has been published on https://andybondurant.com/2024/04/18/asking-for-a-friend/

Asking for a Friend

In 2024, I began writing in series. This begins a new series on disappointment with God.

Books have been written on these topics, so a handful of posts will never fully cover a topic — especially one as deep as disappointment with God. I encourage you to check out a couple of different books if you would like to dive deeper into this subject:

Disappointment with God by Phillip Yancey

Sandbox to Museum by Jared Scholz

Book of Job

Finally, I know you have walked through difficult, heartbreaking situations in your life. If I address something that triggers a point of pain for you, that was not my intention. I encourage you to seek healing and would love to help you as much as possible.

The Life of Chap

I have a friend who is best described as eccentric. Chap is a great guy who finds himself in all types of interesting situations because he is always interested in others.

Chap recently was in Dallas for a bachelor party and found out our church staff was heading his way for a conference. When he heard the news, he was sitting in the airport, ready to catch a flight home. Instead of doing what most of us would do (think, “Bummer, I missed those guys by a day!”), Chap left the airport and headed downtown, waiting six hours to meet us at the arena to watch a Dallas Mavericks NBA game. The next morning, Chap woke up at 5 AM to fly home.

Chap delivers Uber Eats orders as he puts himself through school, leading to more adventures.

One time, Chap delivered to a group of guys watching the NBA playoffs. Chap is a huge basketball fan and regularly wears jerseys. That day was no different, so these guys invited him to their party. The next thing he knew, he was in the pool with a drink in one hand, a mini basketball in the other, and about to dunk on some stranger’s head.

Chap left with a nice tip.

Time to make a shake.

My favorite Chap story (other than he drives a minivan with an “Archery Mom” bumper sticker on it) is another Uber Eats delivery.

Photo by Content Pixie on Unsplash

Chap got a call to deliver an order from a local Steak N Shake restaurant. Whether Chap knew it then is debatable, but this particular Steak N Shake location is sketchy (or ‘sus’ as my kids would say). In the few months since this took place, the location has closed – probably because more drugs were sold there than hamburgers or milkshakes.

So, Chap’s friend Joel received a video text from Chap that night. Chap begins by saying, “Dude, you’re not going to believe this.” Then he proceeds to video himself walking through the restaurant, starting at the front doors. A pattern emerges as he walks through the dining room, then to the front counter, and then to the kitchen doors. No one is around.

The restaurant is empty…of anyone.

Chap walks into the kitchen and then into the manager’s office. The entire building is empty. Then the video ends.

Joel was lying in bed watching this video and leaned over to show it to his wife. As only a woman would do, she began to worry about Chap (guys never think about these things). So Joel texted Chap back. Nothing. Joel called Chap. No answers. Now Joel is truly getting worried.

Just as Joel’s finger began to tap out 9-1-1, Chap called back and said,

“Sorry, dude, I was making a shake.”

Empty shells with God

The Steak N Shake Chap walked into was an empty shell of a restaurant. The doors were open, the lights were on, but no one was home. Just as Chap experienced that night, it is an eery experience to enter an empty shell of a building you expect to be full of life and energy (okay, any energy at all).

It is just as disconcerting to encounter the empty shell of a person.

As a pastor, it is not uncommon for me to talk about their faith with people who are affected like this.

Where they once believed and lived a life full of faith, they are now just an empty shell. Typically, they are dealing with the hurts of life—the loss of a loved one, the break-up of a deep relationship (marriage, friendship, family), a financial crash, a health crisis, the church hurting them, or any other painful experience.

All of these are real, and I don’t take them lightly.

In the past year, I’ve witnessed a mother who learned her son had taken his own life, I’ve had conversations with couples who don’t know if they can continue to keep their marriage together, I’ve walked with people struggling with addiction, and I’ve talked with men and women who have been hurt by the actions (or inaction) of their parents.

It’s easy to allow these experiences to hollow us out. Where once was faith, hope, and joy now reside doubt, disappointment, and bitterness. I talk to people all of the time who are going through the deep struggles of life, and their thoughts often lead to one statement and one question:

”This was not how it’s supposed to be.” “Where was God?”

Get my FREE weekly Newsletter.

You are made for a relationship with God, but you may not know how. My weekly newsletter will show you how to connect with God—to hear his voice, understand the Bible, and walk with him.

Subscribe now!

Disappointment with God

If I were to condense this into just a phrase, it would be ‘disappointment with God.’

Recently, in Christian circles, it’s been referred to as “deconstruction” or “deconversion.” We may have a new title for this experience, but this isn’t a new activity. It may actually be one of the oldest spiritual crises known to man. We can trace it back to the Book of Job, who lived sometime between Noah and Abraham.

An entire book is written that captures his story of wealth, loss, and reaction.

If you’re not familiar with Job’s story, Job was wealthy in every sense. He had a beautiful family—sons and daughters—and an amazing home. He was rich with cattle, sheep, and goats. Job had everything anyone could want, not just material wealth. Job was respected among all who knew him. Job had it all.

Until he didn’t.

In a matter of days, Job lost everything. His sons and daughters were all killed. His house was destroyed. His livestock was stolen. Even his health was attacked. All that Job had left was his life and his wife, but even his wife told him to curse God and die.

So Job did what any of us would do. He asked, “Why?”

Specifically, Job asked for a meeting with God. He wanted to see and question why God would allow such horrible things to him, who by all accounts was a righteous person. But God was silent.

Job is so frustrated with God’s silence that he says,

“But if I go to the east, he is not there; if I go to the west, I do not find him. When he is at work in the north, I do not see him; when he turns to the south, I catch no glimpse of him.” -Job 23:8-9 NLT

By all accounts, God seemed

absent distant hidden

You are not alone.

It is very possible you feel this way about God.

You may be going through a difficult situation. It might be that your marriage is on the rocks, your health is failing, your finances are plummeting, or your church has hurt you. You may have cried out to God in your pain, and he seems absent, distant, or hidden.

God may be silent in your situation.

Over the next few weeks, I want to share both hope and help. I’ll show you how God uses pain to create purpose and where Jesus tells his followers we are to expect trouble. I’ll share three ways to become real with yourself, God, and others. I’ll encourage you to hold onto Jesus, even when you see no sign of him. Until then, I leave you with this thought.

You are not alone.

If Job’s story and struggle show us anything, it is that faithfully following God will require walking through heartache. All of us who attempt to walk with Jesus experience pain. We all will be disappointed in God. But let me skip to the end (spoiler alert).

Salvation comes to those who endure.

I’ll show you how to endure in the coming weeks, but for now, know we are all walking through this together. We need each other to lean on when times are difficult. I need you to pull me forward today, and you’ll need me to do the same tomorrow.

Get my FREE weekly Newsletter.

You are made for a relationship with God, but you may not know how. My weekly newsletter will show you how to connect with God—to hear his voice, understand the Bible, and walk with him.

Subscribe now!

Writing Playlist

I don’t know if we have the same taste in music, but here are some songs to explore. All the links go to Spotify. While writing this post, this is some of what I was listening to:

Back on 74 (remix) – Jungle + Full Crate

Joy in the Morning – Tauren Wells + Elevation (get to the bridge – about halfway through the song)

Praise – Brandon Lake, Chandler Moore, Chris Brown + Elevation

#friends #God #Job

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mystart11 · 6 months

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Revolutionizing Fantasy Sports: Mystart11's Journey Beyond Cricket

While cricket enjoys widespread popularity in many parts of the world, there are numerous other sports that captivate audiences with their thrilling action and competitive spirit. Recognizing the diverse interests of sports enthusiasts, Mystart11, a leading fantasy sports platform, has expanded its horizons beyond cricket to cater to a broader spectrum of fans. Let's delve into Mystart11's journey of revolutionizing fantasy sports across various disciplines.

Embracing Diversity: Mystart11's foray into multiple sports disciplines marks a significant shift in the fantasy sports landscape. With an aim to cater to the diverse interests of sports aficionados, Mystart11 offers fantasy leagues for an array of popular sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and more. This expansion allows fans to indulge in their favorite sports beyond cricket, fostering a deeper engagement and connection with the games they love.

Seamless User Experience: Just like its cricket counterpart, Mystart11 ensures a seamless user experience across all sports offerings. The platform's intuitive interface, comprehensive player statistics, and real-time updates make team selection and gameplay effortless, irrespective of the sport. Whether you're a football fanatic analyzing player form and matchups or a basketball aficionado strategizing your fantasy lineup, Mystart11 provides all the tools you need to excel in your chosen sport.

Innovative Game Formats: Mystart11's commitment to innovation extends to its diverse range of game formats tailored for each sport. From traditional season-long leagues to daily and weekly contests, Mystart11 offers flexibility and variety to suit every user's preference. Additionally, the platform introduces unique gameplay elements and challenges specific to each sport, enhancing the excitement and competitiveness of fantasy sports enthusiasts.

Comprehensive Coverage: One of Mystart11's strengths lies in its comprehensive coverage of various sports leagues and tournaments from around the globe. Whether it's the electrifying action of the English Premier League, the slam-dunk thrills of the NBA, or the grandeur of Major League Baseball, Mystart11 ensures that fans have access to a wide array of sporting events to create their fantasy teams. This extensive coverage not only caters to fans of mainstream sports but also provides exposure to niche leagues and competitions, fostering a deeper appreciation for the sporting world at large.

Community Engagement: Similar to its cricket-focused community, Mystart11 fosters a vibrant and inclusive community of sports enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. Users can join public or private leagues, interact with fellow fans, and engage in spirited discussions about their favorite sports teams and players. This sense of camaraderie and shared passion enhances the overall user experience, making Mystart11 not just a fantasy sports platform but also a virtual community for sports aficionados to connect and celebrate their mutual love for the game.

Fair Play and Transparency: Upholding the values of fair play and transparency, Mystart11 maintains strict measures to ensure the integrity of its fantasy sports contests. The platform employs advanced algorithms and security protocols to prevent any form of cheating or manipulation, fostering a level playing field for all participants. Additionally, Mystart11 adheres to regulatory guidelines and industry best practices to safeguard user data and privacy, earning the trust and confidence of its user base.

Looking Ahead: As Mystart11 continues to expand its footprint in the realm of fantasy sports, the future looks promising and full of opportunities. With a focus on innovation, user satisfaction, and community engagement, Mystart11 is poised to redefine the fantasy sports experience for millions of fans worldwide. Whether you're a cricket connoisseur, a football fanatic, or a basketball buff, Mystart11 invites you to join the journey and embark on an exhilarating ride through the world of fantasy sports.

#cricket #cricket fantasy game

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dyaryobagwis · 8 months

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Stephen Curry, Ionescu tuloy ang shootout sa NBA All-Star Weekend

Bukod sa tampok na East vs. West, tuloy din ang tagisan ng sharpshooters na sina Stephen Curry ng Golden State at Sabrina Ionescu ng New York Liberty sa WNBA sa NBA All-Star Weekend sa Indianapolis.

Ikinasa noong January ang showdown ng dalawa na kauna-unahan sa ganitong uri ng labanan - NBA vs. WNBA - sa liga.

“Sky is the limit for her and what she can do on the court in terms of her impact in the game but off the court as well,” ani Curry sa katunggali.

Naglista ng record 37 points si Ionescu sa WNBA 3-point shootout noong nakaraang taon.

Matapos ang panalo, nag-tweet si Ionescu ng hamon kay Curry: “Shootout?” na tinanggap ng Warriors gunner.

Two-time winner ng NBA 3-point contest si Curry noong 2015 at 2021, best niya ang 31 points sa isang round at 13 straight baskets.

Samantala, sa tingin ng fans ay liyamadong-liyamado ang West laban sa East sa All-Star Game.

Si LeBron James ang captain ng West, kasamang starters sina Luka Doncic, Kevin Durant, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at Nikola Jokic. Reserves sina Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard at Karl-Anthony Towns.

Captain ng East si Giannis Antetokounmpo, kasama niyang starters sina Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard, Jayson Tatum at Joel Embiid (injured). Pinili ng coaches na reserves sina Bam Adebayo, Paolo Banchero, Jaylen Brown, Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Maxey, Donovan Mitchell at Julius Randle (injured).

Hinugot ni commissioner Adam Silver sina Trae Young at Scottie Barnes bilang pamalit kina Embiid (left knee surgery) at Randle (dislocated shoulder).

Buong All-Star Saturday Night lineup ay ilalaro sa full-video LED court na ilalatag sa Lucas Oil Stadium.

Ang skills competition, 3-point contest, slam dunk competition at shooting matchup sa pagitan nina Curry at Ionescu ay gagawin din sa glass floor sa Feb. 17 (Feb. 18 sa Manila), pati ang celebrity game sa Feb. 16 (Feb. 17 sa Manila).

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college-girl199328 · 8 months

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Nikola Jokic spoiled the Milwaukee coaching debut of Doc Rivers by recording his 14th triple-double of the season as the Denver Nuggets surged over the Bucks 113-107 on Monday night. Jokic finished with 25 points, 16 rebounds, and 12 assists, while Jamal Murray added 35 points in helping Denver gain separation during an 8-0 run late in the game.

Rivers was lured out of his role as an analyst to take over for first-year Bucks coach Adrian Griffin, who was fired after 43 games and a 30-13 record. He watched his new squad squander an early 13-point lead, fall behind by as many as nine, and surge back before Aaron Gordon ended the comeback by blocking Damian Lillard's layup with 24.7 seconds remaining. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 29 points and 12 rebounds for the Bucks, who began a five-game trip.

Ben Simmons had 10 points, 11 assists, and eight rebounds in his return from a 38-game absence, Mikal Bridges added 33 points and Brooklyn routed Utah. Simmons hadn’t played since Nov. 6 because of a pinched nerve in his lower back. The No. 1 pick in the 2016 draft played 18 minutes off the bench, made all five shots, and likely would have had a triple-double if not for a minutes restriction.

Cam Thomas added 25 points for the Nets, who rolled to their highest point total of the season, had 41 assists on their 54 field goals and made 21 3-pointers. They have won two straight after losing seven of their previous eight. Keyonte George scored 21 points for the Jazz. They were trying to match an NBA record by scoring 120 points for the 12th straight game but didn’t help their chances by committing 17 turnovers that the Nets turned into 27 points.

Anthony Edwards scored 27 points and Minnesota beat Oklahoma City to take sole possession of the top spot in the Western Conference. Karl-Anthony Towns had 21 points and 10 rebounds, and Rudy Gobert added 12 points and 17 rebounds for Minnesota, which had lost three of five.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 37 points and Jalen Williams added 20 for the Thunder, who lost their second straight after a five-game win streak. The teams split their four meetings this season.

There were 11 lead changes in the fourth quarter. A two-handed dunk by Edwards in traffic put the Timberwolves up 101-97, and Minnesota led by at least four the rest of the way.

Eric Gordon scored 23 points, Devin Booker had 22 and Phoenix handed Miami its seventh consecutive loss. Kevin Durant scored 20 and Bradley Beal had 19 for the Suns, who are 8-2 in their last 10 games and swept the Heat for just the second time in the last 17 seasons.

Jimmy Butler scored 26 points for Miami, which was 24-16 and fifth in the Eastern Conference just two weeks ago. The Heat are now 24-23 and three games behind Indiana in the loss column for the sixth and final guaranteed playoff berth. It’s the first seven-game skid for Heat coach Erik Spoelstra.

Donovan Mitchell had 28 points and 12 assists and Jarrett Allen extended his double-double streak to 15 straight games, leading Cleveland past Los Angeles. Allen finished with 20 points and 17 rebounds. Isaac Okoro added 17 points — all in the first half — as the Cavs held off a late Clippers comeback and ended L.A.‘s winning streak at five. Cleveland is 10-1 since Jan. 3.

Kawhi Leonard scored 30 points and Norman Powell 18 for the Clippers, who got within four in the final two minutes but fell to 2-1 on a season-long seven-game trip.

Jalen Brunson scored 32 points, Donte DiVincenzo added 28 and New York kept rolling without the injured Julius Randle, beating Charlotte for its seventh straight victory. Josh Hart chipped in with 12 rebounds, eight points, and seven assists for the Knicks, who entered with the fourth-best record in the Eastern Conference.

Brandon Miller scored 29 points and Miles Bridges had 21 points and 10 rebounds as the Hornets fell to 0-4 since trading Terry Rozier to Miami for Kyle Lowry and a first-round draft pick. Lowry isn't expected to play for Charlotte.

Jayson Tatum scored 12 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter and Boston rallied past New Orleans. The victory snapped a two-game skid at home for Boston, which started the season 20-0 at TD Garden.

Jaylen Brown added 22 points and 11 rebounds. Jrue Holiday had 20 points and Derrick White finished with 17. The Pelicans led by 17 in the first half but were outscored 68-52 over the final two quarters to drop their third straight game. Brandon Ingram led New Orleans with 28 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Zion Williamson finished with 26 points.

Domantas Sabonis had a career-high 26 rebounds along with 20 points, De’Aaron Fox scored 23 points and Sacramento rallied past Memphis. Sabonis finished 10 of 11 from the field and had 16 rebounds in the first half, a Kings record for rebounds in a half since the franchise moved to Sacramento in 1985. His previous career best was 25 rebounds for Indiana on Nov. 29, 2021, against Minnesota, and he surpassed it with 27.5 seconds left — part of a stout defensive performance by the Kings to close out the game.

Sacramento held Memphis scoreless over the final three minutes. Kevin Huerter added 17 points for the Kings, who won their fourth straight. Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 22 points and Santi Aldama scored 16 on 5-of-14 shooting.

Luka Doncic had 45 points and 15 assists and Tim Hardaway Jr. added 36 points as Dallas beat Orlando. The duo accounted for 54 of Dallas’ 70 points in the second half, including 27 of the team's 35 in the fourth quarter.

Dereck Lively II had 20 points and 11 rebounds, and Jalen Hardy scored 18 of his season-high 20 points in the first half for the Mavericks. Paolo Banchero scored 36 points to lead the Magic.

Jalen Green scored 34 points and Alperen Sengun added 31 as Houston beat Los Angeles. LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and D’Angelo Russell scored 23 points apiece for the Lakers, who had won two in a row, capped by a 145-144 double-overtime victory over Golden State on Saturday.

Cam Whitmore had 20 points off the bench for Houston, and Jabari Smith Jr. had 18 points and nine rebounds in his return after missing four games with a sprained left ankle. Green and Sengun also had 12 rebounds and seven assists each for the Rockets.

Jerami Grant scored 27 points and Portland took advantage of Joel Embiid’s absence to rout Philadelphia. Malcolm Brogdon added 24 points and nine assists for the Trail Blazers, who lost four of their previous five games. Rookie guard Scoot Henderson scored 22.

Kelly Oubre Jr. had 25 points for the 76ers, who lost their third straight as Embiid watched from the bench with a sore left knee. Philadelphia was also without Tyrese Maxey (sprained left ankle). Embiid missed his second consecutive game. The reigning NBA MVP is averaging 36 points and 11.4 rebounds per game.

Kyle Kuzma had 18 points and 11 rebounds, Daniel Gafford added 16 points and 13 boards, and Washington rallied past San Antonio to win consecutive games for the first time this season. The Wizards improved to 2-1 since coach Wes Unseld Jr. was moved to the front office and replaced on an interim basis by Brian Keefe.

Devin Vassell scored 24 points and Victor Wembanyama had 22 points and 11 rebounds for the Spurs, who were seeking their first three-game winning streak of the season. The Wizards outscored the Spurs 31-20 in the fourth quarter.

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