Basketball Archives - Canyon News https://www.canyon-news.com/category/sports/basketball/ We print the truth... Can you handle it? Fri, 05 Dec 2025 01:01:29 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.canyon-news.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/fav-icon-48x48.png Basketball Archives - Canyon News https://www.canyon-news.com/category/sports/basketball/ 32 32 Chris Paul Released By The Clippers https://www.canyon-news.com/chris-paul-released-by-the-clippers/ Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:58:59 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=200058 LOS ANGELES– In a move shocking the sports landscape, the Los Angeles Clippers cut Chris Paul on Wednesday,  December 3 The future Hall of Famer was signed less than two months ago, announcing that this was indeed his final season. “Just Found Out I’m Being Sent Home,” Paul, 40, wrote on Instagram on Wednesday . […]

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LOS ANGELES– In a move shocking the sports landscape, the Los Angeles Clippers cut Chris Paul on Wednesday,  December 3 The future Hall of Famer was signed less than two months ago, announcing that this was indeed his final season.

“Just Found Out I’m Being Sent Home,” Paul, 40, wrote on Instagram on Wednesday . CP3 is one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.

In a statement Lawrence Frank, the Clippers president of basketball operations, confirmed the team is “parting ways with Chris, and he will no longer be with the team.”

At a dismal 5-16 record, the Clippers are one of the league’s worst franchises. Paul repeatedly complained about the direction the team was taking.

Paul has averaged 2.9 points this season, his 21st, with 15 appearances and no starts. He played Monday, where the Clippers lost to the Miami Heat, scoring 8 points and recording three assists.

“I want to make one thing very clear. No one is blaming Chris for our underperformance. I accept responsibility for the record we have right now. There are a lot of reasons why we’ve struggled. We’re grateful for the impact Chris has made on the franchise.”

Paul, known as “CP3,” is a modern basketball great, second on the all-time assists list with more than 12,500, and has been an NBA All-Star 12 times.

This is Paul’s second stint with the Clippers, having played for the team during a hugely successful six seasons from 2011 to 2017.

Fans and teammates are surprised and disappointed it ended this way. No fairwell tour for the fans to thank Paul one final timefor his greatness on and off the court.

Paul’s leadership style clashed with Clippers management, specifically coach Tyronn Lue. Lue and Paul were not on speaking terms for several weeks, and Paul was reportedly vocal in holding management, coaches and players accountable.

The organization felt his behavior was disruptive. Paul is arguably the best Clipper in franchise history, leading the team in assists (4,076) and analytics metrics such as plus/minus (8.3) and value over replacement (36.6).

Paul has not stated whether he will sign with another team or retire.

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LeBron James Comes Back In Victory Over Utah Jazz https://www.canyon-news.com/lebron-james-comes-back-in-victory-over-utah-jazz/ Thu, 20 Nov 2025 06:14:15 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=199634 LOS ANGELES–LeBron James had 11 points and 12 assists in the first game of his unprecedented 23rd NBA season, and Luka Doncic had 37 points and 10 assists in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 140-126 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday,  November 18 at Crypto.com Arena. 40-year-old James made his season debut in the Lakers’ […]

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LOS ANGELES–LeBron James had 11 points and 12 assists in the first game of his unprecedented 23rd NBA season, and Luka Doncic had 37 points and 10 assists in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 140-126 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday,  November 18 at Crypto.com Arena.

40-year-old James made his season debut in the Lakers’ starting lineup and played 30 minutes after missing training camp and their first 14 games due to sciatica.

James didn’t take long to find the flow: He put on a playmaking clinic in the second half, and Doncic scored 17 points in the third quarter while the Lakers pulled away from Utah.

Austin Reaves added 26 points as the Lakers improved to 11-4 with their third straight victory. One of the leagues best NBA teams so far.

James made a driving layup in the third quarter to extend his streak of double-digit scoring performances to a record 1,293 games — every game in which he has played since Jan. 6, 2007. The four-time NBA champion didn’t score again, but the Lakers moved comfortably ahead.

Bronny James played the final 3:33 and hit a 3-pointer.

The Jazz and Lakers will play on Sunday in Utah.

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Lakers Win Wild One Over The Spurs https://www.canyon-news.com/lakers-win-wild-one-over-the-spurs/ Fri, 07 Nov 2025 02:15:05 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=199304 LOS ANGELES– Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama put on a show for the sell out crowd at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday, November 5, as the Los Angeles Lakers survived to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 118-116. Luka Doncic was a rebound shy of a triple double in this Western Conference showdown. His 35 points, 13 […]

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LOS ANGELES– Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama put on a show for the sell out crowd at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday, November 5, as the Los Angeles Lakers survived to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 118-116.

Luka Doncic was a rebound shy of a triple double in this Western Conference showdown. His 35 points, 13 assists and 9 assists led them to their fifth straight win.

In his second year as Head Coach,  Lakers Head Coach JJ Redick has instilled discipline and a vastly improved defense from last season.

The other international All-Star, Victor Wembanyama was outstanding driving to the rim, blocking shots and even displayed his silky shooting from beyond the arc. Scoring 19 points, including a slam dunk that is definitely one of the plays of the year.

Unfortunately, for the Spurs,  he fouled out with 1:39 to play as Deandre Ayton scored 22 points and 10 crucial boards. Ayton is once again a star, like the promise he showed as a Phoenix Sun earlier in his career.

It was a seesaw battle all night, with both teams making numerous turnovers in this crazy game.

Doncic drilled a three pointer putting the Lakers up 113-112 with two minutes left in the game. A resillient effort by the Purple and Gold, who battled back from a nine point hole in the fourth quarter.

At a mark of 7-2, the Lakers have been one of the best teams in the association,  even with LeBron Jammes out until mid November with sciatica.

Adding veteran Marcus Smart has sharpened the defense, Austin Reaves is is going to be an All-Star.  Our X-factor is Rui Hachimura,  he is one of those players who just makes the right decisions.

Whether he is sacrificing his body to draw a charge, or his improved  outside shooting, Hachimura is one of reasons for the teams success.

Currently, the Lakers have an offensive rating of 117.7, which ranks fifth in the NBA. So, perhaps there are other, more important things to address or obsess over than pace.

While the Statement Edition Jersey is a sleek take on the classic purple uniform, it has a nostalgic retro style that would make a great Christmas present.

Fresh off a World Series victory, a number of Dodgers were back in LA and in attendance for Wednesday’s Lakers-Spurs showdown. It’s a Dodger town with Back-to-Back World Series champions.

“I ain’t gonna lie,” Ayton said postgame, “seeing the Dodgers, the champions, walk in here, they put a little pressure on me. I was a little nervous actually seeing them in person. I’ve been watching them through a glass all season.”

One player who is really impressive this season is Jake Laravia. The third year Forward is blossoming into a great player.

During a game last week, the Minnesota Timberwolves Anthony Edwards responded to the fans yelling,” who’s number 12?”  Edwards threw his hands in the air and shouted back, “That’s what I’m saying! I don’t know!”

The secret is out.

The game got tense as the Lakers went up by one after a clutch 3-pointer from Luka. Wemby was then called for his sixth foul at the 1:39 mark. LA then went up by three after a pair of free throws from Ayton.

A costly turnover from Smart gave the Spurs the ball and the chance to either tie the game or win it with 1.2 seconds left.

With .2 seconds left, the refs called a foul on LaRavia, which put Champagnie at the free-throw line. He missed both, sealing the win for LA.

The Lakers’ next matchup is Saturday against the Atlanta Hawks at 5:00 PM.

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NBA Coach Chauncey Billups Arrested In Gambling Probe https://www.canyon-news.com/nba-coach-chauncey-billups-arrested-in-gambling-probe/ Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:44:49 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=198885 NEW YORK, NY—On Thursday, October 23, the FBI announced that NBA Coach, Chauncey Billups, 49, the head coach of the Portland Trailblazers was arrested in a gambling probe. FBI Director Kash Patel announced that it was an illegal gambling and sports operation that took place over 11 years, and they arrested a total of 31 […]

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NEW YORK, NY—On Thursday, October 23, the FBI announced that NBA Coach, Chauncey Billups, 49, the head coach of the Portland Trailblazers was arrested in a gambling probe.

FBI Director Kash Patel announced that it was an illegal gambling and sports operation that took place over 11 years, and they arrested a total of 31 people involved in wire fraud, money laundering, extortion, robbery, and illegal gambling.

“This FBI will leave no room for any perpetrator of crime across this country. You hear a lot about our work defending the homeland and crushing crime, well this work is also a representative of a colossal portion of the FBI’s mandate to keep America safe and to keep our entertainment industry fair and secure,” Patel said during the press conference. “The fraud is mind boggling…tens of millions of dollars in fraud, theft and robbery across a multi-year investigation.”

“Tens of millions of dollars in fraud and theft,” Patel stated during a news conference Thursday morning. “It takes courageous prosecutors courage to stand in front of you…we will not deny anyone due process,” Patel added. He added the gambling operation involves insider trading with the NBA.

U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella, Jr. of the Eastern District of New York announced two indictments. The scheme was an insider sports betting conspiracy that spilled confidential details about basketball operations. The second indictment involved high-tech cheating devices in underground poker room games involving mob families from the Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and Lucchese crime families. He added during the press conference that the NBA did cooperate with the investigation, and that details of the case did not involve college basketball.

“As alleged, members and associates of organized crime families fixed illegal poker games as part of a highly sophisticated and lucrative fraud scheme to cheat victims out of millions of dollars and conspired with others to perpetrate their frauds,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “Well-known former NBA players and former professional athletes, acted as ‘Face Cards’ to lure unsuspecting victims to high-stakes poker games, where they were then at the mercy of concealed technology, including rigged shuffling machines and specially designed contacts lenses and sunglasses to read the backs of playing cards, which ensured that the victims would lose big.  Today’s indictment and arrests sounds the final buzzer for these cheaters.”

Billups has been the coach for the Portland Trail Blazers since 2021. He was drafted into the NBA in 1997 to the Boston Celtics as the third overall pick. He won an NBA Championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004. He is a five-time all-star and an NBA Finals Most Valuable Player. He retired from the league in 2014.

Damon Jones, 49, played with the Cleveland Cavaliers during his time in the NBA league. Jones was arrested in Las Vegas, Nevada, Thursday morning. Former Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, 31, was arrested Thursday morning in Orlando, Florida in connected to the case. Rozier played with the Charlotte Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans.

“Beginning as early as 2019, the defendants orchestrated a scheme to utilize wireless technology to rig,” Nocella, Jr. stated.

As alleged in the indictment, beginning as early as 2019, the defendants engaged in a series of schemes to use wireless cheating technology to rig illegal poker games (most commonly, Texas Hold’em) in the Eastern District of New York and across the United States.  Co-conspirators in the scheme included game organizers, who arranged for unwitting victims to play in underground illegal poker games that were secretly rigged; suppliers of the rigged cheating technology; former professional athletes, who were enlisted as “Face Cards” in the scheme to entice the victims’ participation in the games; cheating teams who worked together using the cheating technology to defraud the victims; money launderers; and members and associates of the Bonanno, Gambino, and Genovese organized crime families of LCN, who backed games in the New York area and took a percentage of the crime proceeds from those games.

LCN members and associates had a foothold in the rigged poker scheme because they had preexisting control over “straight” (i.e., non-rigged) illegal poker games in New York City, where some of the rigged poker games also occurred: one that was hosted principally at Lexington Avenue in Manhattan, that was on record with the Bonanno family (the “Lexington Avenue Game”); and a second that was hosted principally at Washington Place in Manhattan, that was on record with the Gambino family (the “Washington Place Game”).  As part of the schemes, some of the charged defendants and other co-conspirators also committed acts of violence, including the robbery and extortions charged in the indictment.

The defendants utilized off the shelf shuffling machines to read the cards off the deck and predict which players had the best poker hands and relayed that information to the off-site operator. That information was given to the quarterback and that information was given to others at the table to win their games and to cheat the victims.

“Using the allure of high-stakes winnings and the promise to play alongside well-known professional athletes, these defendants allegedly defrauded unwitting victims out of tens of millions of dollars and established a financial pipeline to La Cosa Nostra,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia.  “This alleged scheme wreaked havoc across the nation, exploiting the notoriety of some and the wallets of others to finance the Italian crime families. Our office maintains its aggressive pursuit of any Italian organized crime operating in our jurisdiction and will continue to stem all unlawful revenue streams fueling their illicit activity.”

As alleged, members of the conspiracy fulfilled different roles to ensure the schemes’ success.  The defendants Tony Goodson, Shane Hennen, Curtis Meeks, and Robert Stroud supplied the cheating technology.  The defendants Ammar Awawdeh, Saul Becher, John Gallo, Zhen Hu, Stroud, and Seth Trustman organized the rigged games.  Members of the cheating teams included the defendants Nelson Alvarez, Louis Apicella, Chauncey Billups, Eric Earnest, Marco Garzon, Jamie Gilet, Tony Goodson, Kenny Han, Hennen, Horatio Hu, Damon Jones, John Mazzola, Nicholas Minucci, Michael Renzulli, Angelo Ruggiero, Jr., Stroud, Trustman, and Sophia Wei.

In addition, the defendant Anthony Shnayderman, among others, laundered the proceeds of the schemes.  Game organizers sometimes directed victims to send money via bank wires to shell companies controlled by Shnayderman, who then transferred money (either in cash or cryptocurrency), less a money laundering fee, back to the game organizers.

Bettors who were defrauded in the rigged games may be victims under the Mandatory Victims Restitution Act.  If you believe you were a victim of the scheme, please contact 1-800-CALLFBI.

The charges in the indictments are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Lakers Fall To Golden State On NBA Opening Night https://www.canyon-news.com/lakers-fall-to-golden-state-on-nba-opening-night/ Wed, 22 Oct 2025 18:16:30 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=198842 LOS ANGELES—It was a dismal start to the Los Angeles Lakers season, missing LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers lost to the Golden State Warriors 119-109, at Crypto.com Arena in this much hyped game that aired on NBC. NBC had not aired an NBA telecast in over two decades, so the event was hyped. For […]

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LOS ANGELES—It was a dismal start to the Los Angeles Lakers season, missing LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers lost to the Golden State Warriors 119-109, at Crypto.com Arena in this much hyped game that aired on NBC.

NBC had not aired an NBA telecast in over two decades, so the event was hyped. For Laker fans, the anticipation was short lived.

The Warriors held on down the stretch after leading by as many as 17 points. Although the Lakers trimmed the lead to six, at 99-105 prior to the Warriors slamming the door on any thoughts of a comeback.

Luka Dončić, now in his first full season with the Lakers after a stunning trade with the Dallas Mavericks last season, finished just shy of a triple-double with 43 points, 12 rebounds and 9 assists.

He shot 17-of-27 from the field but 2-of-10 from the 3-point line. That was about all the Lakers could manage offensively for much of the night, and it hurt.

The Warriors took a one-point lead into the break after what was a pretty sloppy and chippy first half. It was an extremely sloppy game by both teams.

Golden State took over in the third quarter, led by Jonathan Kuminga.  He powered half of a 16-4 burst out of the break with a pair of huge 3-pointers to give Golden State control of the game again.

They ended up mounting a 23-9 run out of the period before someone other than Dončić scored for the Lakers.

Curry put the game to bed with a deep contested 3-pointer in the final minute for good measure, too.

Austin Reaves finished with 26 points, 13 of which came in the fourth quarter to help the Lakers’ rally. Deandre Ayton was the only other player to hit double figures with 10 points and six rebounds. The Lakers shot just 17-of-28 from the free-throw too.

Los Angeles plays the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, October 24.

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LeBron James To Miss First Month Of NBA Season https://www.canyon-news.com/lebron-james-to-miss-first-month-of-nba-season/ Mon, 13 Oct 2025 23:37:09 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=198504 LOS ANGELES—With opening night for the Los Angeles Lakers just a week from Tuesday, Lakers Nation was dealt a terrible blow. LeBron James will miss opening night of his record 23rd NBA season due to sciatica that will be re-evaluated in three to four weeks, the Los Angeles Lakers announced Thursday. The 40-year-old superstar will […]

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LOS ANGELES—With opening night for the Los Angeles Lakers just a week from Tuesday, Lakers Nation was dealt a terrible blow. LeBron James will miss opening night of his record 23rd NBA season due to sciatica that will be re-evaluated in three to four weeks, the Los Angeles Lakers announced Thursday.

The 40-year-old superstar will be sidelined at least until the end of October with sciatica — pain in the nerves running from the buttocks and down the back of the legs on his right side.

James has yet to participate in a full practice since the Lakers opened training camp last week, and coach JJ Redick said James was “on his own timeline” Thursday after practice. An hour later, the Lakers announced an injury timeline that means James is likely to miss at least their first five or six games, and possibly several more.

The Lakers open the regular season at home Oct. 21 against Golden State. They have eight games in a 13-day span beginning Oct. 24.

Redick and the rest of the Lakers expressed excitement last week about the chance to have their first full training camp together with James and Luka Doncic, who scarcely ever got to practice with his new team after joining Los Angeles in the middle of last season.

James has repeatedly said he doesn’t know whether he will retire after this season, only saying that the end to the longest career in NBA history will be “sooner than later.”

Luka Doncic will definitely have to carry the Lake Show for the time being.

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NBA Moneylines Preview: What Fans Should Know Before Opening Week https://www.canyon-news.com/nba-moneylines-preview-what-fans-should-know-before-opening-week/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 12:35:30 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=198306 UNITED STATES—The NBA’s opening week always feels like a fresh start, with new storylines, revamped rosters, and renewed rivalries filling every highlight reel. For fans, it’s the moment when speculation finally meets reality. For those watching the sport through the lens of odds, it’s also when the early numbers start telling stories of their own. […]

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UNITED STATES—The NBA’s opening week always feels like a fresh start, with new storylines, revamped rosters, and renewed rivalries filling every highlight reel. For fans, it’s the moment when speculation finally meets reality. For those watching the sport through the lens of odds, it’s also when the early numbers start telling stories of their own.

Moneyline betting offers one of the most straightforward ways to engage with the action. It’s not about the point spread or final score margin, just one simple question: who will win tonight?

As teams hit the court for the first time, understanding how those early moneyline odds are formed can help fans follow the momentum shifts that define opening week.

Understanding How NBA Moneylines Work

At its core, moneyline betting is about predicting the outright winner of a game. There are no handicaps, no spreads, just a focus on which team comes out on top when the final buzzer sounds.

A moneyline is displayed with a plus or minus sign. The minus sign (–) designates the favorite, while the plus (+) marks the underdog. The number itself tells you how much the bet would pay out.

For instance, if the Brooklyn Nets are listed at –250 and the New York Knicks are +400, the difference is clear. A $250 bet on the Nets would return $100 in profit if they win, while a $100 bet on the Knicks would earn $400 if they pull off the upset.

Overtime is included in the result, and the only thing that matters is which team wins. It’s a simple concept that appeals to both seasoned bettors and newcomers: one team wins, one team loses, and the odds tell you how the market expects it to go.

The Key Factors Behind Opening Week Odds

Opening week is when predictions meet performance, and early moneylines often shift rapidly as teams reveal their true colors.

Several major forces drive those odds, from blockbuster trades to last-minute lineup changes:

  • Player Movement and Team Chemistry: Offseason trades and new signings can reshape expectations overnight. Teams that build quick chemistry often see their odds shorten, while those still adjusting may open the season less favorably,
  • Preseason Performance and Market Reaction: Strong preseason play, especially from new rotations or rising stars, can boost confidence in a team’s outlook. Fans can follow how these perceptions evolve through updated NBA moneylines leading up to tip-off,
  • Injuries and Availability Updates: Injury news, even rumors, can cause instant odds movement. The absence of a key player like Joel Embiid or Luka Dončić often shifts expectations dramatically for both teams involved.

These early factors combine to make opening-week odds a live reflection of how analysts, fans, and sportsbooks interpret a fast-changing NBA landscape.

Recent Betting Trends and Opening Week Volatility

The early days of the NBA season are known for unpredictability. Teams adjust, coaches experiment, and bettors react to every headline. This combination creates a unique landscape of trends and volatility that defines opening week.

Public Betting and Market Bias

Casual fans often gravitate toward familiar names, such as powerhouse teams like the Warriors or Lakers. Their popularity can cause lines to lean heavily toward those franchises, even when matchups are closer than they appear on paper.

Professional analysts and data-driven fans look beyond the spotlight, examining how new coaching systems or underappreciated teams might outperform expectations. Opening week is filled with these quiet surprises, the moments when the spotlight shifts from the usual favorites to new contenders earning respect.

Rapid Line Movement

The first few hours before tip-off can see dramatic swings in moneyline odds. Late-breaking news, such as a player resting, a surprise debut, or a minor injury, can shift expectations immediately. Sportsbooks adjust to keep balance, and sharp observers often notice those changes before the public catches up.

Fans monitoring opening week lines should pay attention to official team updates before game time, watch for rapid odds changes that often signal new information, and remember that early-season adjustments are common; lines are fluid, not fixed.

Actionable Insights for Fans During Opening Week

With rosters finally set and the season ready to begin, fans can take a measured, informed approach to understanding how early lines evolve. The goal isn’t to outsmart the market but to stay aware of how information flows in the days leading up to each game.

Monitor News and Line Changes

Following team announcements, player status reports, and rotation updates can provide context for why a team’s odds are moving. Early-season matchups often hinge on details: a new defensive scheme, a rested starter, or a bench player making an unexpected impact.

Compare Odds Across Platforms

Different sportsbooks may adjust their moneylines at different rates. Monitoring these updates throughout the week helps fans recognize how sentiment shifts around certain matchups. In a competitive market, awareness is often what separates informed observation from reactionary guesswork.

Understanding the “Why” Behind Line Movement

There’s a reason behind every odds adjustment. Maybe it’s public excitement, or a team showing new chemistry, or an analyst’s report gaining traction online. Interpreting the “why” gives fans a richer understanding of how the broader basketball conversation shapes the numbers they see.

Staying informed on the latest NBA news and trends, from roster developments to coaching adjustments, can help fans recognize patterns and narratives that influence how the season unfolds.

Early Lines, Lasting Impressions

Opening week is more than just a return to basketball; it’s a first look at how every team plans to define its season. The moneyline odds posted before each tip-off aren’t just numbers; they’re reflections of storylines, expectations, and the constant tug-of-war between perception and performance.

As the season stretches into winter and beyond, the surprises of those first few games often echo for months. Teams that overperform in October can shift the entire balance of the conference standings. Others, still finding their rhythm, may use those early lessons as fuel for a comeback story.

For fans, following how early odds evolve and what drives them offers a fascinating lens into the business of basketball itself. Opening week is the spark that sets it all in motion, blending competition, data, and emotion into one shared anticipation: who will rise first, and who will surprise everyone.

*Content reflects information available as of 07/10/2025; subject to change

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The Los Angeles ‘Luka’s’ https://www.canyon-news.com/the-los-angeles-lukas/ Sat, 09 Aug 2025 19:20:18 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=195864 LOS ANGELES—Luka Dončić has agreed to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday, August 2. Bypassing a chance at free agency next summer to build a long-term future with his new team. Moving forward,  Luka is the future and focal point of the Purple and Gold for the […]

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LOS ANGELES—Luka Dončić has agreed to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday, August 2. Bypassing a chance at free agency next summer to build a long-term future with his new team.

Moving forward,  Luka is the future and focal point of the Purple and Gold for the future.  Luka Doncic’s first six months with the Los Angeles Lakers were more than enough to give him a vision of a glittering long-term future with his new team.

Doncic’s comfort with the Lakers was already obvious in his offseason activity: He played a significant role in Los Angeles’ successful bids to sign Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart, helping to persuade the two veterans to team up with him for the upcoming season.

LeBron James is entering his unprecedented 23rd NBA campaign.  King James is incredibly happy with the move, as his desire to win a fifth NBA Championship remains his focus and relentless drive.

LeBron James praised Dončić’s ability to play exceptionally well under emotional circumstances.

Here is a list of his historical accomplishments he has already achieved in his career: A five-time All-NBA selection and a five-time All-Star averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 assists and 7.7 rebounds per game last season while teaming up with LeBron James for 50 victories and the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

“It’s an honor playing for this organization,” Doncic said. “Many, many great players played here, so obviously I want to add one more up there. That’s what we’re working for.” He averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 assists and 7.7 rebounds per game last season before a disappointing fist round NBA Playoff defeat at the hands of Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Acquiring Doncic from the Mavericks last February in a trade for Anthony Davis, a trade so enormous and shocking many NBA fans believed it was initially an internet hoax.

The deal, as it turns out was a fact. Altering the direction and future of  both the Dallas Mavericks, as well as the Los Angeles Lakers.

Despite Doncic’s brilliant career and exceptional, Hall of Fame credentials, the only elephant in the room being the 26-year olds conditioning.

Rather than a Summer break of exciting vacations and leisure, Luka Doncic has been hitting the gym.

He was recently on the cover of Men’s Health, where he detailed the two-a-day workouts he’s been doing in Croatia, along with a gluten-free, low-sugar diet — complete with 250 grams of protein and one almond milk–fueled shake a day.

The future is very promising for the upcoming season.

 

 

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Lakers Sold For $10 Billion https://www.canyon-news.com/lakers-sold-for-10-billion/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 03:25:31 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=194514 LOS ANGELES—Once upon a time in 1979, a businessman named Jerry Buss purchased the “Fabulous Forum”, the Kings hockey team and the Lakers. He paid what was then then a staggering sum of $67.5 million dollars. The NBA was struggling with low television ratings, and many people questioned the move. Now forty-six years later the […]

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LOS ANGELES—Once upon a time in 1979, a businessman named Jerry Buss purchased the “Fabulous Forum”, the Kings hockey team and the Lakers. He paid what was then then a staggering sum of $67.5 million dollars.

The NBA was struggling with low television ratings, and many people questioned the move. Now forty-six years later the investment has paid off handsomely. Mark Walter has purchased the Los Angeles Lakers for an astonishing $10 billion dollars. The owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers now has two of the most coveted sports franchises in the history of professional sports.

Thus, it is certainly the end of an era. The magic that the Buss family brought to the Lakers franchise cannot be understated. With Jack Kent Cooke the Lakers were pretty good. When the Buss family came in and took over the reins of the team you now had something that was legendary.

Jerry West, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul Jabar, Norm Nixon. Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Pat Riley, James Worthy, Kobe Bryant, Phil Jackson, Shaquille O’Neal, Derrick Fisher, Pau Gasol, Lebron James, Anthony Davis, Luka Doncic all part of the legend.

Jerry West’s half-court shot at the buzzer. Kobe to Shaq alley oop against Portland.

Robert Horry last second three pointer against Sacramento that sent the Staples Center crowd into an unmatched frenzy.

And Ron Artest hitting the three against the hated Celtics in game seven of the finals. After a rare pass from Kobe Bryant, Artest exclaiming with sheer joy, “he passed me the ball”!

Memories to last a lifetime.

His daughter, Jeanie Buss, took over as principal owner after Jerry died in 2013, making her one of the most powerful women in sports. Jeanie Buss will stay on as governor after the sale.

Her tenure as principal owner helped usher stability, and restored pride in the Purple and Gold.

Magic Johnson, five-time Laker champ and minority Dodgers owner knew Walter and Buss shared the same vision for the Lakers. That vision means winning.

“Mark Walter is the best choice and will be the best caretaker of the Laker brand,” Johnson posted on X.

“The proof is in the pudding on what he’s been able to accomplish with the LA Dodgers. Mark has been nothing short of a winner notching two World Series and 11 NL West divisional titles in the last 12 years!”

 

 

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Kobe Bryant Mural Vandalized Again https://www.canyon-news.com/kobe-bryant-mural-vandalized-again/ Wed, 11 Jun 2025 23:59:33 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=194246 LOS ANGELES—A beloved mural honoring the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna in downtown Los Angeles has been repeatedly defaced, sparking outrage among fans and leading the artist to consider relocating the poignant tribute. The “Mambas Forever” mural, located at 1361 Main Street (near 14th Street), has been vandalized twice within the […]

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LOS ANGELES—A beloved mural honoring the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna in downtown Los Angeles has been repeatedly defaced, sparking outrage among fans and leading the artist to consider relocating the poignant tribute. The “Mambas Forever” mural, located at 1361 Main Street (near 14th Street), has been vandalized twice within the last month.

The mural created by Los Angeles based artist, Louie Palsino, also known as “Sloe Motions,” depicts a touching image of Kobe in his Lakers uniform kissing his daughter Gigi, who holds a basketball.

It quickly became a significant landmark and a place of remembrance for countless fans following the tragic passing of Kobe and Gigi in a helicopter crash in January 2020.

The first incident of vandalism occurred on April 29, when the mural was tagged with black and white spray paint, including profanity. The community rallied around the artist, and a GoFundMe campaign was launched for its restoration. In a heartwarming display of solidarity, current Lakers star Luka Dončić stepped in and generously donated the entire $5,000 needed to restore the artwork.

Sloe Motions diligently worked to bring the mural back to its original state, completing the restoration by May 30. However, just days later, on June 3, the mural was vandalized again, this time with white spray paint scrawled across the entire piece.

The repeated defacement has left the artist deeply disheartened. “Everything happens for a reason, and we now want to reach out and get this piece done in collaboration with another business or foundation, all donated by us and no charge to the new location,” Palsino stated.

He expressed his hope that a new, more secure location, whether indoor or outdoor, will allow the community to appreciate the artwork without fear of further disrespect.

The incidents have resonated deeply with Angelenos and basketball fans worldwide, who view the mural as a vital part of Kobe and Gianna’s enduring legacy. While the motives behind the vandalism remain unclear, the acts have sparked a wave of condemnation and a strong desire to protect such meaningful tributes.

The artist and community members alike hope that the mural’s eventual relocation will ensure its longevity and allow it to continue serving as a powerful symbol of remembrance and inspiration.

 

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Clippers Beat The Nuggets, Harden Rolls https://www.canyon-news.com/clippers-beat-the-nuggets-harden-rolls/ Fri, 02 May 2025 20:46:04 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=193185 INGLEWOOD—The NBA’s most thrilling Playoff series is giving us a Game 7. The Los Angeles Clippers knocked off the Denver Nuggets, 111-105 at the raucous Intuit Dome on Thursday, April 30. James Harden was brilliant, scoring 28 points in this incredibly evenly matched series. Game 7 as well as the series winner will be decided […]

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INGLEWOOD—The NBA’s most thrilling Playoff series is giving us a Game 7. The Los Angeles Clippers knocked off the Denver Nuggets, 111-105 at the raucous Intuit Dome on Thursday, April 30. James Harden was brilliant, scoring 28 points in this incredibly evenly matched series.

Game 7 as well as the series winner will be decided on Saturday night in Denver. Harden finished the all-around effort with eight assists and six rebounds in 47 minutes of play.

It was a bounce-back performance for the 16-year veteran from his recent outings, having scored just 26 points combined in Games 4 and 5.

While Kawhi Leonard produced a double-double with 27 points and 10 rebounds in the must win. It was a resilient performance, the Clippers outright refused to end their season in front of their loyal diehard fans.

This victory was a team effort, as Nic Batun buried key three pointers. Clippers X-factor Norman Powell added 24 points in an excellent game.

With the series now tied at three, the first round series will conclude in Denver with the Oklahoma City Thunder awaiting the winner.

The Clippers built some early momentum in the first quarter, but the Nuggets finished the opening period with a 28-25 lead. L.A. managed to keep the game close in the second quarter before pulling away coming out of the locker room at halftime.

The Clippers lead the Nuggets 80-66 with 3:56 left in the third quarter, one of their largest leads of the night after Norman Powell drove in a layup off an assist from Nicolas Batum.

While Nuggets cut into the Clippers’ lead in the fourth quarter, Powell hit a three-pointer to extend the lead to 110-101 with 1:40 left and put the game out of reach for the Nuggets.

Keys for the Clippers to pull off the upset, Clippers coach Ty Lue will have to rely on James Harden, Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell to advance to the Western Conference semifinals.

The trio combined for 79 points in the must-win Game 6 on Thursday night in LA, a formula that’s been working for the Clips in this back-and-forth series.

Kawhi Leonard will need to continue his thrilling postseason run. Zubac has played awesome defense against Nikola Jokic.

This series has been remarkably entertaining throughout, starting with an overtime game in the opener and following it up with intense, close games. Game 7 should be no different. Catch the action Saturday at 7:30 on TNT.

 

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Purple And Fold https://www.canyon-news.com/purple-and-fold/ Thu, 01 May 2025 18:13:16 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=193151 LOS ANGELES—Luka and the Lakers season is over. It was a humiliating 103-96 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night at Crypto.com Arena, the T’Wolves advance to the next round after defeating the Lakers 4-1. From the tipoff, it was all Timberwolves, as if their season was on the line. While the Lakers stunned […]

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LOS ANGELES—Luka and the Lakers season is over. It was a humiliating 103-96 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night at Crypto.com Arena, the T’Wolves advance to the next round after defeating the Lakers 4-1.

From the tipoff, it was all Timberwolves, as if their season was on the line. While the Lakers stunned fans sat in silence, and the Lakers were as flat as a three-day old Pepsi.

Rudy Gobert had the best game of his Playoff career. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year posted a playoff career-high 27 points on 12-of-15 shooting and 24 rebounds.

The Lakers showed some fight in a game they entered after running their top five players ragged in Game 4. They were down by double digits at multiple points in the first half, but a third-quarter rally gave them their first lead of the game.

It was close from there until the Timberwolves pulled away with one last run in the fourth quarter. No player in the Lakers’ starting lineup was taller than 6-foot-8.

That small roster helps explain why Gobert was able to feast on the Lakers soft, undersized frontline.

Very rare when a pre-game interview becomes an interesting subplot, but it clearly shows a team unraveling and falling apart.

First year Head Coach JJ Redick, who had a successful opening campaign to his coaching career, was visibly upset with a question and lost his cool.

The reporter asked Redick about a questionable decision in Game 4. The reporter vaguely implied Redick did not consult his assistant coaches and kept his worn-out lineup on the court.

Redick, a normally cool cat was visibly upset. He curtly told the reporter,” I always consult with all of our coaches,” before storming off.

Luka Dončić played the second half in some measure of pain after a painful end to the first half.

The Lakers star took a hard foul from Donte DiVincenzo and immediately started holding his back. Fortunately for the Lakers, Dončić was back out there at the start of third quarter, but he could still be seen grabbing his back at times.

Dončić finished the game with a game-high 28 points, nine assists and seven rebounds. Although Laker Nation is upset, Doncic was acquired in February, patience and an off-season of conditioning will help him dominate next season.

For the entire game, the Lakers did not play with a traditional center on the floor. Jaxon Hayes, who started in each of L.A.’s first four playoff games against the Wolves, didn’t see a single second of playing time in Game 5.

Minnesota outrebounded the Lakers 54-37 and had a plus-16 advantage in points in the paint. Austin Reaves struggled mightily in this series.

The first order of business this offseason will be to get a quality big man who can protect the rim and thrive in pick-and-roll situations.

Better luck next season Lakers.

 

 

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Lakers Are On The Brink Of Elimination https://www.canyon-news.com/lakers-are-on-the-brink-of-elimination/ Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:12:34 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=193084 MINNESOTA—The Los Angeles Lakers entire season is on the verge of collapse after a disheartening loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves, 116-113 on Sunday, April 27. Trailing 3-1 in their Playoff series headed back to L.A.; the Lakers are one loss away from being bounced out of the first round. Game 4 went down to the […]

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MINNESOTA—The Los Angeles Lakers entire season is on the verge of collapse after a disheartening loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves, 116-113 on Sunday, April 27. Trailing 3-1 in their Playoff series headed back to L.A.; the Lakers are one loss away from being bounced out of the first round.

Game 4 went down to the wire. Jaden McDaniels converted a three-point play with 39.5 seconds left for the lead and stole the ensuing inbounds pass from LeBron James, leading a 4th quarter rally.

In a word, the loss was frustrating. The Purple and Gold blew a 12- point lead down the stretch, with Anthony Edwards torching Los Angeles with 43 points.

The Lakers have a small roster, which means the T’Wolves have a huge advantage on the boards. So many second chance points because the Lakers were unable to rebound.

Luka Doncic bounced back from a stomach bug with 38 points on 13-for-28 shooting, but the Lakers are heading home for a win-or-be-eliminated Game 5 on Wednesday.

Another reason for the Lakers struggles is our role players. I’m talking about Gabe Vincent, Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves, where are you?

Reaves final 3-point attempt to tie the affair with 10 seconds left rimmed out and that was the game. Despite the fact and percentages, these Lakers continue to shoot and miss wide open shots.

James had 27 points and 12 rebounds for his 144th career double-double in the playoffs, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain for the third-most in history behind Tim Duncan (164) and Magic Johnson (157). James went 15 for 18 from the free-throw line, determined to get to the rim in what was the best game by the Lakers offense in the series, but he was scoreless in the fourth.

Former Laker Julius Randle added 25 points in the comeback victory. Minnesota is young, determined and hungry.

The Wolves have outscored the Lakers in the fourth quarter of every game by a total of 105-69.

“We haven’t lost nothing yet,” Doncic said. “It’s still the first one to four wins, and we’ve just got to still to believe.”

There is still hope, but the Lakers must play better defense, and someone other than LeBron or Luka needs to score 20 points. Game 5 is Wednesday night at Crypto.com Arena. We need every fan there; the Lakers need us now.

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Lakers Even Series With Minnesota Timberwolves 1-1 https://www.canyon-news.com/lakers-even-series-with-minnesota-timberwolves-1-1/ Wed, 23 Apr 2025 22:52:03 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=192930 LOS ANGELES—With their season hanging in the balance, the Los Angeles Lakers rebounded with a galvanizing performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves, winning 94-85 on Tuesday, April 22 at Crypto.com Arena. The crucial victory, which evened up their Playoff series at 1-1 spearheaded by Luka Doncic and a superb team defense. The Lakers never trailed after […]

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LOS ANGELES—With their season hanging in the balance, the Los Angeles Lakers rebounded with a galvanizing performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves, winning 94-85 on Tuesday, April 22 at Crypto.com Arena. The crucial victory, which evened up their Playoff series at 1-1 spearheaded by Luka Doncic and a superb team defense.

The Lakers never trailed after the first few minutes of Game 2, led by double digits almost until the very end, flexed their star power when necessary and sent the Wolves home feeling frustrated and maybe a little less confident about this series.

The Timberwolves scored a season low 85 points on just 38% shooting from the field. It was excellent defense, the L.A. Lakers were stellar on the boards, showing the ability to rotate on the pick and roll.

Luka’s favorite animal must be a wolf. He has been dominant against the T’Wolves. He finished one assist shy of a 31-point triple-double in Game 2 and is averaging 34 points for the series.

Minnesota rarely doubles opposing players — their one-on-one defense is that good — but Dončić is testing that strategy. It might be time for a tweak.

After the Wolves were sizzling from beyond the arc on Saturday, making a whopping 21 three pointers. In Game 2 however, it was ice cold, making only 5 of 25 from three-point territory.

“We looked at what we didn’t do so well, which is a lot of things in Game 1,” said James, who scored 21 points and made a key steal in the fourth quarter. “We took it to heart, held each other accountable and had a much better result.”

Austin Reaves added 16 for the third-seeded Lakers, who jumped out to an early 22-point lead and hung on through a physical matchup with sixth-seeded Minnesota.

Los Angeles scored only 60 points in the final three quarters, but the Wolves never got closer than nine points. Coach JJ Redick was proud of his players’ response — even if he had to unload on them in the fourth quarter during a profanity-laden timeout to maintain their focus down the stretch.

Julius Randle scored 27 points and Anthony Edwards had 25 for the Timberwolves, who lost most of their offensive fluidity from Game 1. Edwards said the Lakers’ defensive adjustments made it “kind of hard” on him.

Game 3 is Friday night in Minneapolis.

 

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Luka Returns Home And Torches The Mavericks https://www.canyon-news.com/luka-returns-home-and-torches-the-mavericks/ Thu, 10 Apr 2025 17:55:55 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=192603 DALLAS, TX—Luka Doncic returning to face his former team the Dallas Mavericks, on Wednesday, April 9 was a thrilling and emotional homecoming for the 26-year-old superstar. Doncic was able to control the hoopla and spectacle concerning his return by dropping 45 points in the Lakers 112-97 victory over the Mavs. Prior to tipoff, the Mavericks […]

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DALLAS, TX—Luka Doncic returning to face his former team the Dallas Mavericks, on Wednesday, April 9 was a thrilling and emotional homecoming for the 26-year-old superstar. Doncic was able to control the hoopla and spectacle concerning his return by dropping 45 points in the Lakers 112-97 victory over the Mavs.

Prior to tipoff, the Mavericks showed a highlight reel on the jumbotron of Luka’s jaw dropping plays where he joined the Mavs as a 19-year-old kid-Doncic was genuinely touched by the outpouring of the Mavericks faithful. His eyes welled with tears, appreciative for the fans support.

“After that video, I was like, ‘There’s no way I’m playing this game,'” Doncic said. “It was so many emotions.”

Then it was time for ball, and some vengeance.  He didn’t just play, he dominated, providing a painful reminder for every Mavericks fan in attendance of the player the franchise parted with in a deal with the Lakers in February in which Dallas acquired Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a future first-round pick.

Driving to the basket for uncontested layup his signature step back three pointer, he dominated every aspect of the game. Scoring 31 in the first half alone, his incredible performance has the Purple and Gold sitting in the #3 seed in the Western Conference with only two games remaining in the regular season.

It was all smiles from him and his Lakers teammates who swarmed him and chanted along with the “Luka! Luka!” cacophony from the crowd.

“Big time, because they all had my back,” Doncic said of sharing the moment with his new team. “Everybody had my back, from coaches to players, and we’re trying to build something special here. That was really, really, really nice to see.”

It was still a tight game in the fourth quarter, as the Mavs erased the deficit, briefly taking an 87-85 lead.  LeBron James who powered the Lakers in the second half, posting 27 points and seven rebounds.

James paced himself to be his absolute best in crunch time. It also marked the first time Anthony Davis went up against the Lakers since the blockbuster trade in February.

AD was an extraordinary talent and man who helped the Los Angeles Lakers capture the 2020 NBA Title.

Although Laker fans complained about his constant injuries and availability over the years, he is a legendary Laker who one day will have his number three jersey hanging in the rafters.

While the win officially clinched an NBA playoff spot for Los Angeles. Throughout the night, when the Lakers went to the free throw line, loud “Fire Nico!” chants echoed throughout American Airlines Center.

Nico Harrison, the Mavericks president of basketball operations and general manager responsible for bringing the trade concept to the Lakers, spent the game standing in a tunnel near midcourt, mostly out of view.

Shortly after Doncic checked out with 1:34 left in the fourth and the win in hand, the crowd reprised its “Fire Nico!” chant a couple of more times.

The Lake Show returns tomorrow against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena at 7:30 p.m.

 

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March Madness Ends https://www.canyon-news.com/march-madness-ends/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:18:36 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=192376 UNITED STATES—As soon as it started, it is already over. Yes, the hype over March Madness seemed to die last weekend, and we have our NCAA Final Four, and gosh, did I never expect this one. We literally have all four #1 seeds making it to the Final Four. I don’t recall the last time […]

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UNITED STATES—As soon as it started, it is already over. Yes, the hype over March Madness seemed to die last weekend, and we have our NCAA Final Four, and gosh, did I never expect this one. We literally have all four #1 seeds making it to the Final Four. I don’t recall the last time that transpired, but I do recall hearing it happen recently, but oh, it’s such a bummer.

Why? It feels too predictable and if we’re being honest, some of the teams that found a way to make to the pinnacle of the Tournament shouldn’t even be there. I’m sorry, Auburn totally torched my bracket because while I thought they would just pulverize the Michigan Wolverines. However, at the start of the game it was just terrible to watch. Both teams were playing horrid, and then out of nowhere the Michigan Wolverines put a beating on the Tigers and were leading by ten points.

What the hell happened during halftime I could not tell you. It was like the Wolverines just decided not to play and Auburn just took over the game and like that they’re in the Elite 8 and they’re doing battle against the Michigan State Spartans. I’ll talk more about that game later. I want to return to the other #1 seeds, the Houston Cougars and Purdue Boilermakers. Purdue was seriously taking care of business against Houston, similar to the Wolverines with Auburn in the first half. Duke was the one team who maintained its stature and dominance throughout the Tournament.

However, once again the second half came around and it was like basketball fans were looking at another Purdue team and they just let the Cougars trounce them. For me I love basketball when it’s competitive and you have both teams giving a hard fight from start to finish, not just rolling over and tossing the game. It felt like that last weekend, especially with the Elite Eight games.

None of them were exciting, the Spartans could not find their footing at all against Auburn because they could score, they just couldn’t get the ball into the basket which would have made all the difference with that game. If a few of those shots had just landed, the Tigers probably would not be in the Final Four and the Spartans would be.

Sorry, the Auburn Tigers are not that great of a team, and they’re not making it to the NCAA Championship Game. If they do, I will be stunned. I’m saying the same thing about the Cougars. I’m so glad neither team is playing one another because I think they would be a dreadful championship game to witness. However, the Tigers must face the Florida Gators, and I pray for the Cougars in their battle against the Duke Blue Devils.

For me, I’m rooting for Duke all the way, and I hate Duke, but I think they are the better and superior team of the four that are remaining. I expect Florida to take out the Tigers and I expect the Blue Devils to easily dismantle the Cougars. Now, could I be surprised, and we could see an upset, but that is an upset I prefer not to see. I guess when it comes to March Madness I like to see upsets and that Cinderella Team, but it feels like that was not in the cards for 2025 and that is so unfortunate as a fan of the sport.

Written By Davy Jones

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The NCAA Bracket Kicks Off https://www.canyon-news.com/the-ncaa-bracket-kicks-off/ Tue, 18 Mar 2025 21:14:22 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=191953 UNITED STATES—On Sunday, March 16, the craziness of March Madness officially kicked off with the Selection Committee of the NCAA picking the 68 teams that will be going to the big dance that will unfold over the next three weeks. Who would make the cut and who would not make the cut? That is the […]

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UNITED STATES—On Sunday, March 16, the craziness of March Madness officially kicked off with the Selection Committee of the NCAA picking the 68 teams that will be going to the big dance that will unfold over the next three weeks. Who would make the cut and who would not make the cut? That is the question that always unfolds each and every year.

No different in 2025, as a team like Indiana fails to make the cut, but a team like the UNC does make the cut. West Virginia which many expected to get a chance to the big dance didn’t. Other schools missing the cut included Ohio State and Boise State.

With that said, things kick off on Tuesday with the play in games between Alabama State and Saint Francis; American and Mount St. Mary’s; Texas and Xavier; San Diego State and North Carolina. None of those teams really stand out for me, so if they’re going up against the #1 overall seeds in the South, Midwest, West and East Region, I don’t see them making a dent in the tournament, but that doesn’t mean it can’t happen. The four #1 seeds are Auburn, Duke, the Houston Cougars and the Florida Gators. I do indeed love Florida and Duke, with a record as impressive as theirs they will indeed be a titan for anyone who goes up against them.

In the South region we have a ton of interesting matchups. We have #8 seeded Louisville duking it out against the #9 Crieghton Blue Jays. That is going to be a battle, and those eighth and ninth seeded games always tend to be because the teams are evenly aligned. #13 Yale may have won their division, but they are playing against #4 seeded Texas A&M. Yale might seem like the underdog, but people shouldn’t make that mistake.

The headscratcher is the ranking of Michigan which just caused all sorts of uproar after winning the Big Ten Championship game on Sunday and finding themselves as a #5 rank, as they battle the UC San Diego Tritans. Yes, just because you win your division the NCAA isn’t looking at that as being an automatic high-ranking seed. You get an automatic bid to the tourney, but no guarantee on success.

My Michigan State Spartans, who were bounced in a heartbreaker against Wisconsin, but the Spartans are a #2 seed and the team started the season very slow, but they have managed to prove to be a goliath and I truly hope this is the Spartans year to take it all. If not, I need to at least see them make it to the Final Four. There is even a chance that the Spartans could face off against their rivals, the Michigan Wolverines in the Elite 8, and wouldn’t that be tons of fun. Other matchups include: #6 seeded Ole Miss vs. the winner of the San Diego St. and North Carolina game, #3 seeded Iowa S vs #14 Lipscomb and #7 Marquette vs. #10 New Mexico.

Let’s talk about the East Region. #1 seeded Duke is going to be difficult to dismantle people. I’m looking at this region and if there are any upsets it could be #5 seeded Oregon, #11 seeded VCU or #2 seeded Alabama that takes them out. VCU is the one to truly watch out for; they are dangerous and while many are thinking #6 seeded BYU will come out on top, I don’t think so. I just don’t see it. #12 seeded Liberty could give the Ducks a challenge, but I expect Oregon to soar if we’re being honest. #3 seeded Wisconsin’s performance in the Big Ten Championship game was a disappointment, but then again they may have just been exhausted. I expect them to take care of biz with #14 Montana Grizzlies.

We do have the matchups between #4 seeded Arizona and #13 Akron, while #8 seeded Mississippi St battles #9 Baylor. We also have #7 seeded Saint Mary’s vs #10 Vanderbilt, while Alabama should have a cakewalk against Robert Morris. I will admit the East Region is the one that I haven’t made a decision on precisely who makes it out of that region because there can be a ton of upsets literally.

Let’s turn our attention to the Midwest Region, where there aren’t a ton of standouts for me, but some possible upsets could be on the horizon. I definitely see Houston going all the way to the Elite 8. Who could upset them, perhaps Clemson who is #5 or the #13 High Point Panthers that has a lot of people on their side. High Point could be the Cinderella Team of March Madness. I feel like the battle between #8 Gonzaga vs #9 Georgia should be more exciting, but I don’t care. Clemson should have a cakewalk over #12 McNeese, but I think that could be a better battle than you think. Purdue might be a #4, but I think High Point is taking them out. I see #7 UCLA making it past the first round, but I think #2 seeded Tennessee is going to be a beast. I see Tennessee and Houston making the elite 8, where I want to give an edge to Tennessee, I just feel like the Vaults can pull it out.

Let’s wrap things up with the West Region. Yes, UConn were back-to-back NCAA Champions. I don’t see it happening for a three-peat in 2025. We have the #1 Florida Gators who should have an easy battle with #16 Norfolk St. Yes, I see UConn which is a #8 seed taking care of business against #9 Oklahoma. The team to watch is #4 Maryland. I truly think they could be a challenge for Florida and very dangerous in this bracket. They might be the big upset no one expects.

You have Rick Patino and St. John’s earning a #2 seed and they will face off against Omaha, and guess what Patino is indeed a legend and his ability to succeed with various teams in the NCAA Tournament says a lot, but I think Maryland is the biggest threat in this region. Yeah, you have #6 Missouri vs #11 Drake, #3 Texas Tech vs. #14 UCNW, #7 Kansas vs. #10 Arkansas, but none of those teams pop for me, but that doesn’t mean I could be surprised.

So in the South, I like Michigan State to go to the Final Four. In the Midwest I’m placing my money on Tennessee. In the East, I have to give it to Duke and in the West I am going with Maryland. I see Michigan State and Maryland duking it out, while Duke and Tennessee battle. In the end, I’m calling a Michigan State and Duke Championship game, and I like the Spartans. Yes, Duke has been a thorn in the Spartans life for quite some time and I expect it to be a battle of battles. Let the madness begin!

Written By Davy Jones

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Are You Ready For The March Madness? https://www.canyon-news.com/are-you-ready-for-the-march-madness/ Thu, 13 Mar 2025 19:53:27 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=191828 UNITED STATES—This is my favorite time of the year when it comes to sports. Now, I don’t care about the Super Bowl as much as people would assume. It tends to be predictable and never exciting. However, college basketball is at its fever pitch and on Sunday, March 16, the bracket and the NCAA Tournament […]

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UNITED STATES—This is my favorite time of the year when it comes to sports. Now, I don’t care about the Super Bowl as much as people would assume. It tends to be predictable and never exciting. However, college basketball is at its fever pitch and on Sunday, March 16, the bracket and the NCAA Tournament will officially kick off. I love this time of year because I feel like collegiate sports have more at stake than professional sports.

Many of the athletes in the professional leagues have already made it, so unless they’re rookies, they don’t have much to prove and they don’t care as much either. They are collecting their checks one way or another. When it comes to the collegiate arena there is so much more to prove. Not only are you attempting to prove your worth as an athlete, you’re building name recognition in the public sphere as well.

I can’t describe the incredible feeling I get when it comes to March Madness. It is a bonding moment for people who enjoy the tournament just like me. It is an opportunity to socialize with individuals who are rooting for the same team or teams as you, and if you are an alum of a school playing in the NCAA Tournament, the trash talking and camaraderie is at an all time high.

The chaos is actually taking place as we speak as various tournaments are unfolding across college basketball from the Big Ten, The SEC, America East, America Athletic, Atlantic 10, ACC, Big West, Big East, Big 12, Horizon League, Sun Belt the list goes on and on people. Teams that find themselves victorious in these tournaments find themselves getting bids into the bracket.

However, you have to realize that some of the best teams out there, don’t always make the NCAA Tournament and it’s a shame and the Committee is going to have to find a way to find some better determinations across the board. I always find it baffling when a team with a near perfect record fails to crack the bracket, but a team with a not so impressive record sneaks in and a lot of the time it has to do with name notoriety.

Yes, I am indeed rooting for my Michigan State Spartans who have been on a roll this year. Hell, I can’t recall a time the team didn’t make the NCAA Tournament in the last 20 years. Even with that said, the team hasn’t always faired great either. I can’t forget our journey to the Final Four in 2009, which was hosted in Detroit, the school’s home turf at the time people.

The campus was vibrant, chaotic and everyone was hoping for a victory, only for those hopes to be dashed by the NC Tar Heels, yes, they have always been a thorn in the Spartans side in recent years, but one can hope that is not the case this year. That is the thing about March Madness, you either win or you go home. There are no second chances. You have a bad night and you’re out and I love it as a result, because the best of the best can be knocked out by a Cinderella school. A lot of the time it tends to be schools that people never expected, and they tend to go on a deep run, but that run tends to end at some point.

I cannot recall in the NCAA Tournament history as I have been a participant, a team that has won back-to-back championships. It is just a very difficult feat to accomplish. I could be wrong, but it just rarely happens. So get ready college basketball fans because on March 16 the bracket will be unveiled and it will be your time to start making predictions. Who will defeat who? Where will the upsets be, and who will make all the way to the NCAA Final Four and who will win it all.

Yeah, you can participate in that bracket B.S. about crafting a perfect bracket which I’m sorry it just seems impossible to do. If someone does do it, it is sheer luck and I mean sheer luck like a coincidence that just rarely happens. Gosh, the next three weeks are about to be so much fun, I cannot wait!

Written By Davy Jones

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Los Angeles Lakers 2024-25 Season Preview: Leverage And Legacy https://www.canyon-news.com/los-angeles-lakers-2024-25-season-preview-leverage-and-legacy/ Mon, 21 Oct 2024 15:46:21 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=187605 UNITED STATES—The Los Angeles Lakers, a storied franchise synonymous with basketball greatness, stands on the precipice of another defining chapter in the 2024-25 NBA season. With LeBron James challenging Father Time, and a Western Conference brimming with talent, the Lakers’ journey through the upcoming season will be nothing short of cinematic. Offseason Changes and Strategic […]

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UNITED STATES—The Los Angeles Lakers, a storied franchise synonymous with basketball greatness, stands on the precipice of another defining chapter in the 2024-25 NBA season. With LeBron James challenging Father Time, and a Western Conference brimming with talent, the Lakers’ journey through the upcoming season will be nothing short of cinematic.

Offseason Changes and Strategic Shifts

The Lakers’ offseason has been marked by notable changes, starting with the introduction of JJ Redick as the new head coach, signaling a fresh tactical direction. The departure of Darvin Ham and players like Taurean Prince and Spencer Dinwiddie has set the stage for new faces to make their mark. The addition of promising talents such as Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, coupled with the strategic acumen of Christian Koloko, hints at a dynamic roster eager to make an impact.

The Core Duo: LeBron James and Anthony Davis

At the heart of the Lakers’ strategy remains the dynamic duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Last season, their synergy, especially during the crucial closing stretches of the regular season, showcased a blend of experience and skill that few teams could match. However, with LeBron aging and the physical demands of the NBA ever-present, the Lakers’ success hinges on their ability to maintain peak performance levels amidst rigorous competition.

The Young Guards and Tactical Nuances

The Lakers’ depth will be tested, with young guards like Bronny James expected to rise to the occasion. The coaching philosophy under Redick seems poised to exploit this, emphasizing a high-tempo game and a stronger focus on three-point shooting, as evidenced by Knecht’s inclusion, a sharpshooter who excelled in college basketball.

The Role of Veteran Insight and New Strategy

As the Lakers integrate their new additions and adapt to JJ Redick’s coaching strategies, the role of veteran insight will be crucial. LeBron James, with his unparalleled experience, not only continues to defy age but also serves as a mentor to the younger players, including his son Bronny. This mentorship, combined with Redick’s fresh tactical approach, aims to enhance the Lakers’ play style, focusing on maximizing efficiency both offensively and defensively. The blend of veteran leadership and innovative coaching could be the catalyst the Lakers need to navigate the challenges of a loaded Western Conference and make a deep playoff run.

Season Projections and Challenges

Projecting the Lakers’ season, the stakes are as high as ever. The Western Conference is loaded with teams that have bolstered their rosters in pursuit of championship glory. The Lakers are expected to blend their seasoned leadership with the vigor of their youthful additions, aiming not just to compete but to contend at the highest level. For those engaged in fantasy basketball, the evolving dynamics of the Lakers present intriguing picks and potential sleepers. Meanwhile, FanDuel NBA odds suggest a cautiously optimistic outlook for the team, capturing the attention of sports bettors keen on gauging the impact of the Lakers’ strategic revamp.

An Uncertain Yet Hopeful Horizon

In conclusion, the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2024-25 season is draped in both opportunity and uncertainty. With a legendary figure like LeBron at the helm, supported by Anthony Davis, and a refreshed squad under JJ Redick, the Lakers are poised to either soar to new heights or face the tough realities of an intensely competitive NBA landscape. As they gear up for the season opener against Minnesota, the Lakers’ saga continues—rich in legacy and hungry for more glory.

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LA Lakers Kick Off Preseason With High-Profile Matchups: What To Watch In 2024 https://www.canyon-news.com/la-lakers-kick-off-preseason-with-high-profile-matchups-what-to-watch-in-2024/ Wed, 09 Oct 2024 14:16:01 +0000 https://www.canyon-news.com/?p=187228 UNITED STATES—The Lakers are making final preparations and adjustments as they head into their all-important 2024-25 preseason schedule. The team’s fixture lineup this year will allow fans to get an early preview of their newly revamped roster.  While preseason is traditionally exciting for the players and their millions of fans, it will also be a […]

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UNITED STATES—The Lakers are making final preparations and adjustments as they head into their all-important 2024-25 preseason schedule. The team’s fixture lineup this year will allow fans to get an early preview of their newly revamped roster. 

While preseason is traditionally exciting for the players and their millions of fans, it will also be a challenging time as the coaches aim to build as much team chemistry as possible for the intense season ahead. As we build up to it, here’s a taste of what Lakers fans can expect from this year’s preseason.   

Getting in On the Action 

Fans everywhere are gearing up to thoroughly immerse themselves in key fixtures. For many, that means getting in on some early betting action ahead of the season itself. While the Lakers are currently longshots for the championship with odds ranging between +3400 to +4000 at prominent sportsbooks, punters are likely to have better luck with individual matches.  

Those fervent Lakers fans who want to place a bet on their favorite team probably know that sports betting is not yet legal in California. Still, according to sports betting expert Ross Bennellick, Californians can turn to some offshore betting sites and discover CA betting options here: https://www.sportstalkphilly.com/california. These sites feature far fewer restrictions as they are licensed internationally. They also provide a wealth of benefits like great bonuses, a wider selection of betting markets, and express registration processes. For anyone looking to follow the action, here’s how things currently stand.   

Key Preseason Matchups

This year, the La Lakers are scheduled to play some old rivals. Some standout fixtures include games against the Phoenix Suns, the Golden State Warriors, and the Milwaukee Bucks. These critical matches should be an early indicator of the team’s readiness for the upcoming season.

With the Lakers scheduled to face some of their main opponents, fans should be treated to some thrilling showdowns. Their match against the Suns should be an intriguing one. Fresh off a remarkably strong showing last season, the Suns will likely be an especially grueling test. 

The game is scheduled for October 7 and should be a good indicator of the Lakers’ preseason progress and playoff chances. On October 16, the Lakers will face an important test of their defense as the Warriors have been one of the most dangerous offensive teams of the last few years. 

New Players to Keep an Eye on

The preseason will be an opportunity to evaluate key players and new acquisitions like Max Christie, who’s been re-signed by the Lakers—a decision that found favor with King James himself

Other notable names to look out for will be Christian Koloko and Dalton Knecht. Of course, Bronny James will likely have the most eyes on him as the basketball world waits to see if he will live up to the family name or not. Finally, new head coach JJ Redick will find himself in front of the demanding task of harmonizing the existing players and newcomers into a well-greased basketball mechanism. 

Conclusion

While preseason games have traditionally been an important time for the best NBA teams, this year’s preparation is especially important for the Lakers due to the changing team dynamics, recent player acquisitions, and revolving team dynamics. With their legions of fans waiting to see how the team will perform this year, the Lakers have a challenging preseason ahead but also one filled with opportunities to dazzle.  

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