Category: NBA News Blog

NBA news blog

Joel Embiid wins 2022-23 NBA MVP award

The NBA announced today that Philadelphia 76ers six-time All-Star center Joel Embiid has been named the 2022-23 Kia NBA Most Valuable Player. Embiid is the fifth 76er ever to capture league MVP honors, joining Hall of Famers Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving, Allen Iverson, and Moses Malone. The Cameroon native is the seventh international player to be named MVP since the award’s inception.

Embiid led the NBA in scoring for the second consecutive season, averaging 33.1 points per game, joining Hall of Famer Wilt Chamberlain as the only 76ers ever to post an average of 33-plus points in a season. He is the first NBA player to win consecutive scoring titles since teammate James Harden (three straight, 2017-20) and the first 76er to do so since Hall of Famer Allen Iverson (2000-02).

Embiid led the 76ers to a 54-28 regular season, the team’s best since 2000-01. The third seed in the 2023 NBA Playoffs, Philadelphia is in the midst of an Eastern Conference Semifinals series against the Boston Celtics.

“I’ve watched Joel grow and evolve into one of the greatest players in 76ers franchise history over the last nine years. Today is a proud day for our organization as Joel becomes the fifth Sixer ever to capture League MVP honors,” Managing Partner Josh Harris said. “Joel overcame adversity at the start of his career with a combination of perseverance and grit, and now, his intense work ethic has pushed him into the NBA history books. It’s been a joy to watch him dedicate himself to the team and the city of Philadelphia. Cpngratulations to Joel, our fans, and our city on an honor we will always remember.”

“We have all witnessed the greatness of Joel Embiid during his entire career as a 76er and I am thrilled to see his exceptional hard work and dedication recognized by being named NBA MVP,” 76ers Co-Managing Partner David Blitzer said. “Joel is a once-in-a-lifetime talent whose impact extends far beyond the court. When you think of the greatest players to ever wear a 76ers uniform, your mind naturally goes to legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving, Moses Malone, Charles Barkley and Allen Iverson. Tonight, Joel has cemented his place on that special list and we are all excited to see him continue to add to his legacy.”

This season also saw Embiid add in 10.2 rebounds on a career-high 54.8% shooting from the floor. He’s the third player in NBA history to average at least 33 points and 10 rebounds on 54% shooting from the floor, joining Chamberlain (1965-66 MVP) and fellow Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1971-72 MVP).

Defensively, Embiid posted 1.7 blocks (seventh in the NBA) and 1.0 steals per outing. He and 2022-23 Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. were the only two players in the league this season to average at least 1.5 blocks and 1.0 steals.

“Let me start by saying I am absolutely thrilled for Joel on winning the MVP award. He is the real deal and deserves every bit of recognition that comes his way. He embodies everything that the honor stands for. His drive to improve is unmatched, and like the saying ‘a dream doesn’t become reality through magic, it takes hard work’, he’s put in the work. What’s most impressive is the why. He puts in the work because he wants to be a winner,” said 76ers Head Coach Doc Rivers. “This MVP award is part of that journey. While this may be an individual award, in many ways it’s also a team award. Joel’s teammates have been unbelievable in contributing to his success. I couldn’t be prouder of all of them. It takes a village. From our staff, our coaches, our players and the entire organization, congratulations to the big fella.”

“I’ve always believed that greatness emerges when talent meets relentless dedication. Joel’s season was legendary, and the MVP award is the latest milestone of his decorated career,” President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey said. “His impact on both sides of the ball places him in rarified air among all-time greats such as Hakeem, Kareem and Wilt. It has been a privilege to watch Joel over the last three seasons and I know this won’t be his last accomplishment as we continue to strive toward our ultimate goal of winning an NBA championship.”

Julius Randle misses Game 1 of Knicks vs. Heat playoff series

The New York Knicks versus Miami Heat second round playoff series began today in NYC, with the home squad starting the series short-handed. Via ESPN.com:

Knicks forward Julius Randle will not play Sunday in Game 1 of New York’s Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Heat because of a sprained left ankle, the team announced.

The Knicks also said swingman Quentin Grimes will play in Game 1 but will not start. Grimes missed the final two games of the first round after suffering a shoulder contusion in Game 3 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Magic forward Paolo Banchero wins 2022-23 NBA Rookie of the Year award

Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero has been named the 2022-23 NBA Rookie of the Year.

For his accomplishments, he will be awarded the Wilt Chamberlain Trophy by the league.

Banchero joins Shaquille O’Neal (1992-93) and Mike Miller (2000-01) as the only Orlando Magic players ever to be named NBA Rookie of the Year.

Banchero received 494 points (98 first place votes) from a panel of 100 sportswriters and broadcasters.

Selected in the first round (first overall) of the 2022 NBA Draft, Banchero played and started in 72 games this season with Orlando, averaging a team-high 20.0 ppg., 6.9 rpg. and 3.7 apg. in 33.7 minpg. He ranked among all NBA leaders in rebounding (T-38th) and minutes played (T-37th). Banchero led all NBA rookies in scoring and minutes played, while also ranking among rookie leaders in rebounding (5th), assists (3rd), free throw percentage (7th), steals (4th) and blocked shots (7th).

Banchero became just the sixth NBA rookie in the last 50 seasons (since 1973-74) to average 20+ ppg., 6+ rpg. and 3+ apg. (minimum 50 games). He scored 20+ points 40 times and 30+ points six times this season, the most by any NBA rookie. The 40 20+ point games were the second-most by a rookie in team history (O’Neal, 60, 1992-93) and tied for fifth-most in NBA history for most 20+ point games by a rookie age 20-or-younger. Banchero’s six 30+ point games were also second-most by a rookie in team history (O’Neal, 10, 1992-93).

Banchero was named the Kia NBA’s Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month four consecutive times from December 2022-March/April 2023, joining Shaquille O’Neal (1992-93) as the only players in franchise history to win the honor four straight times.

The Wilt Chamberlain Trophy features a player palming two basketballs at once. Chamberlain’s 1959-60 season is unmatched for an NBA rookie. He averaged 37.6 ppg. and 27.0 rpg. in 46.4 minpg. for the Philadelphia Warriors, winning both Rookie of the Year and MVP awards. His career highlights include two NBA championships, 13 NBA All-Star selections, four league MVPs, 10 All-NBA Team selections, an NBA Finals MVP and inclusion on the league’s 35th, 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.

Trail Blazers will have their own G League team starting in the 2023-24 season

The Portland Trail Blazers and the NBA G League today announced that the Trail Blazers have acquired the right to own and operate an NBA G League team that will launch in the Chiles Center on the University of Portland’s campus in North Portland. The team is expected to debut in the 2023-24 season. With today’s announcement, the NBA G League expands to a record 31 teams for the 2023-24 season. The name and brand identity of the team will be announced at a later date, as well as the front office and coaching staff.

Chiles Center serves as the home for the University of Portland’s Division I athletics programs competing in the West Coast Conference. Opened in 1984, the 4,852-seat convocation dome has hosted numerous high-profile events, including college basketball’s Phil Knight tournaments last November, as well as the 1992 and 2007 West Coast Conference Basketball Championships. The University has previously partnered with the Trail Blazers on hosting countless NBA events over the last decade, including a successful partnership that resulted in the 2030 NCAA Women’s Basketball Final Four recently being awarded to the City of Portland.

“I’m excited to welcome Jody Allen and the Trail Blazers ownership group to the NBA G League family,” said NBA G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim. “The NBA G League continues to grow to meet the developmental demands of NBA teams, and today’s announcement is further proof of the value the league provides to the NBA every day. I can’t wait to watch the team tip off at the Chiles Center next season.”

“It was very important to our organization to enter the G League with an affiliate here in Portland and strategically strengthen our dedication to player development,” said Joe Cronin, Portland Trail Blazers General Manager. “I would especially like to thank Jody Allen, who is aligned with Dewayne Hankins and myself, to make it a priority to have this team ready for next season as it will serve not only as a developmental tool for players but also for aspiring coaches and staff while we continue to be a mainstay in the community as a whole.”

“Entering the G League with a team of our own will increase development in numerous areas,” said Dewayne Hankins, Portland Trail Blazers President of Business Operations. “Not only will this team be an asset for developing young talent on the court, but developing talent off the court as well. We’ll be leaning into an innovative approach that will improve all aspects of our business across both teams. With the team launching at the University of Portland, we’re excited to continue engaging with the North Portland community.”

“Pilot Nation is thrilled to welcome the Trail Blazers G League franchise to their home on The Bluff,” said University of Portland President Robert D. Kelly, PhD. “UP has a rich and storied athletic tradition, and we couldn’t be more excited to continue that tradition by hosting this new franchise on our beautiful campus. I am grateful to our friends from the Portland Trail Blazers and our Athletic Department staff for making this wonderful partnership happen, and I can’t wait for the inaugural season to begin!”

Houston Rockets hire Ime Udoka as new head coach

The Houston Rockets yesterday named Ime Udoka the team’s new head coach.

Udoka becomes the team’s 15th head coach in franchise history.

In his lone season as head coach of Boston in 2021-22, Udoka helped the Celtics bounce back from a .500 record the previous season to win 51 games, capped off with an impressive run to the NBA Finals which included Game 7 victories over Milwaukee and Miami.

“We are excited to welcome Ime to the Houston Rockets,” said Rockets General Manager Rafael Stone. “Ime’s intelligence, drive and toughness were the traits we were looking for in a coach to lead our team through this next stage of our development as we strive to become a champion. We were honored to have the opportunity to speak to multiple outstanding candidates throughout the interview process and felt that Ime’s vision best aligned with the goals the Fertitta Family and myself have for the future of the Rockets.”

Udoka’s Celtics ranked first in the league in both field goal defense and fewest points allowed in 2021-22 after the team ranked 13th in defensive rating the previous season. He was a two-time winner of the Eastern Conference Coach of the Month award and finished fourth in voting for Coach of the Year.

Prior to becoming head coach of the Celtics, Udoka was an assistant coach on Gregg Popovich’s San Antonio staff from 2012-13 through 2018-19, Brett Brown’s Philadelphia staff in 2019-20 and Steve Nash’s Brooklyn staff in 2020-21, Those teams made the playoffs in each of Udoka’s nine seasons as an assistant, with the Spurs winning the title in 2013-14. Udoka was also a member of Popovich’s staff for USA Basketball during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

Per the Houston Chronicle, “Udoka led Boston to the 2022 Finals in his first season as a head coach but was suspended in September and dismissed in February for having an improper relationship with a staff member, considered a violation of team rules. During the All-Star break two months ago, the Celtics agreed to a long-term contract with Joe Mazzulla, who began the season as their interim coach.”

More from the Chronicle: “Udoka issued a statement after he was suspended, apologizing for his actions without specifically addressing them. He has not commented since. “I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down,” Udoka said in the statement. “I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team’s decision. Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment.”

As a player, Udoka spent parts of seven seasons in the NBA from 2003-04 through 2010-11 while appearing in 316 games with 80 starts. After going undrafted in 2000, he had brief stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and New York but spent most of his time in the NBA Development League and playing overseas. Udoka’s first full NBA season was as a 29-year-old for Portland in 2006-07 and the following season, he helped the Spurs reach the Western Conference Finals. Besides Popovich, Udoka played for Phil Jackson, Larry Brown, Nate McMillan and Paul Westphal.

Kawhi Leonard and Paul George out for Clippers at Suns Game 5

It’s looking rough for the Clippers. Via ESPN.com:

In Game 5 against the Phoenix Suns, the Los Angeles Clippers will attempt to save their season sans Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.

Prior to Tuesday’s game in Phoenix, the Clippers ruled out both of their franchise stars on Monday. With one more victory, the Suns can clinch the Western Conference first-round series against the Clippers since they are up 3-1.

Due to a right knee sprain he sustained in Game 1, Leonard has been sidelined since Game 2. Leonard managed to play despite the ailment in Game 2, but it became worse and will keep him out for a third game in a row.

Kings guard De’Aaron Fox injures finger, doubtful for Game 5 vs. Warriors

Sacramento Kings guard De’Aaron Fox underwent X-ray imaging that revealed an avulsion fracture of the left index finger.

The injury was sustained during the fourth quarter of Game 4 versus the Golden State Warriors.

Fox will be listed as doubtful for Wednesday’s game versus the Warriors

Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen wins 2022-23 NBA Most Improved Player award

Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen has won the 2022-23 NBA Most Improved Player award.

He becomes the first player in franchise history to garner the award.

Markkanen (7-0, 238, Finland) averaged a career-best 25.6 points (12th in the NBA) on 49.9 percent from the field and 39.1 percent from beyond the arc, along with 8.6 boards, and 1.9 assists in 34.4 minutes per game, boosting his points per game by over 10-plus from 2021-22. Markkanen totaled 16 games with 30-or-more points during his first season in Utah, after having tallied just 15 such games in his previous five NBA campaigns. He was one of only six players in the NBA to average over 25 points and eight boards in 2022-23 (min. 60 games played) alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid, Luka Doncic, Julius Randle, and Jayson Tatum.

The 25-year-old earned his first All-Star selection in 2022-23, starting for Team Giannis during All-Star weekend in Salt Lake City. Markkanen became the first player in NBA history to knock down over 200 threes, while throwing down over 100 dunks in a single season. His 200 three-point makes were the most in a season by a seven-footer in NBA history. He logged 23 games with over 20 points and 10 boards last year, which was the 10th most such outings in the NBA.

The Finnish international registered three games with 40-or-more points, including a career night against Houston on Jan. 5, where he totaled 49 points on 15-of-27 from the field, becoming only the fifth player in Jazz history to tally 49-or-more points (Dantley, Malone, Maravich, and T. Robinson) and he was the first Jazz player to total multiple 40-point, 10-rebound games in a season since Karl Malone in 1997-98.

The first Utah player to earn the Most Improved accolade, Markkanen becomes seventh international player to be named Most Improved, joining Pascal Siakam (2018-19), Giannis Antetokounmpo (2016-17), Goran Dragic (2013-14), Boris Diaw (2005-06), Hedo Turkoglu (2007-08), and Gheorghe Muresan (1995-96).

Rockets will reportedly hire Ime Udoka as new coach

Via the Houston Chronicle:

Step one of a pivotal summer for the Houston Rockets is now complete as the franchise reportedly reached a deal Monday to hire Ime Udoka as its next head coach, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

Udoka, 45, comes to Houston following an NBA career that spans two decades. He played for five different franchises from 2002-12, and then quickly moved to coaching as he took an assistant role on Gregg Popovich’s staff in San Antonio. Udoka parlayed that role into the head coaching job with the Celtics in 2021-22, in which Boston went 51–31 before reaching the NBA Finals.

Giannis Antetokounmpo set to return for Bucks at Heat Game 4

Via the Sun Sentinel:

The news was major for the Milwaukee Bucks and relatively minor for the Miami Heat on the injury front for the two teams ahead of Monday night’s Game 4 in their opening-round Eastern Conference playoff series at Kaseya Center.

Bucks All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to the court Monday morning for the Bucks’ shootaround, the latest step in his recovery from the lower-back contusion sustained in the Heat’s Game 1 victory a week ago Sunday in Milwaukee.