Latest news with #KevinLove
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
LeBron James' Four-Word Reaction to Kevin Love and J.R. Smith's Latest Interaction
LeBron James' Four-Word Reaction to Kevin Love and J.R. Smith's Latest Interaction originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The 2015-16 Cleveland Cavaliers won the NBA championship against the Golden State Warriors in seven games. Advertisement LeBron James and Co. became the first team in NBA history to erase a 3-1 series deficit in the NBA Finals. Kevin Love and J.R. Smith, two players from the 2016 Cavaliers team, reunited on Thursday at Madison Square Garden for the Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers. Love and Smith hugged each other on the MSG court and James loved the moment. "My dogs right there!!" James wrote on his Instagram story. James plays for the Los Angeles Lakers, Love is on the Miami Heat and Smith is retired. Smith and James won their second title together in 2020 with the Lakers at the Walt Disney World Resort bubble against the Heat. Love wasn't on the Miami roster at the time. Advertisement James, the leading scorer in NBA history, averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 1.0 steals and 0.6 blocks for the Lakers this season. He made the All-NBA Second Team. Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron JamesTrevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images Meanwhile, Love averaged 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.0 assists for the Heat. He tragically lost his father, former NBA player Stan Love, in April. Arguably the greatest player of all time, James has played for the Cavaliers (twice), Heat and Lakers. He has career averages of 27.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.5 steals and 0.7 blocks. James is the oldest active player in the NBA. He's 40 years old and turns 41 in December. Advertisement The basketball icon has a player option to return to the Lakers next season worth $52.6 million. Related: DeMar DeRozan Issues Strong LeBron James Statement on Wednesday This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on May 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
LeBron James sends heartfelt message for Kevin Love and JR Smith's emotional reunion during Indiana Pacers vs New York Knicks Game 5
LeBron James sends heartfelt message for Kevin Love and JR Smith's emotional reunion. Image via: Brynn Anderson/ AP | NBA on TNT In an emotionally charged moment that brought back memories of the Cleveland Cavaliers' historic 2016 championship run, Kevin Love and JR Smith reunited at Madison Square Garden during Game 5 of the Pacers vs Knicks playoff series. The former teammates, who were instrumental in Cleveland's legendary title win, shared a long, emotional hug on the court after the game. The reunion quickly went viral and caught the attention of their former teammate, LeBron James . LeBron James reacts to Kevin Love and JR Smith's heartfelt reunion at Pacers vs Knicks Game 5 Kevin Love and JR Smith's heartfelt reunion was more than just a friendly catch-up between two ex-teammates. Kevin Love and JR Smith, both key players during the Cavaliers' 2016 NBA Finals victory over the Golden State Warriors, looked like they had traveled back in time, reliving the bond forged through postseason battles. As the cameras rolled and thousands watched, the two embraced, jumping with excitement and pure emotion. LeBron James reacts to Kevin Love and JR Smith's heartfelt reunion. Image via: kingjames/ Instagram It didn't take long for the video to hit social media and strike a nostalgic nerve. LeBron James, who led the Cavs to that unforgettable championship, reposted the clip to his Instagram story with a simple but powerful caption, 'My dogs right there!!' It appears that James almost had tears in his eyes. LeBron James led his teammates, Kevin Love, JR Smith, and co. to 2016 NBA championship The bond among these three players is tremendous. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo It was built on more than just shared jerseys, but the journey to the championship in 2016. LeBron's promise to bring a title to Northeast Ohio when he returned to Cleveland in 2014 became reality in 2016. His legendary performance in the Game 7 clincher against the Warriors included 27 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists, three blocks, and two steals — a triple-double that secured his Finals MVP honor. In Game 7, Love pulled down a crucial 14 rebounds and added 3 assists, while Smith chipped in 12 points, helping maintain momentum. Reflecting on that title run, LeBron recently shared on 'Mind the Game' podcast with Steve Nash, 'We're going to win Game 5. Like, I can feel it. We're going to win Game 5... I promise you, if we get back to Cleveland for Game 7, there will be a Game 7. And I'll take it from there.' Also Read: Indiana Pacers vs New York Knicks (05/29): Box score, player stats, game summary and more James' leadership tied that Cavaliers team together. And it is obvious that a simple reunion between Love and Smith still carries emotional weight nearly a decade later. Now, James is with the Los Angeles Lakers, still in his A-game at 40.
Forbes
18-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The Mental Game: NBA Players DeRozan, Love, and Jordan Prioritize Mental Health
Over the past several years, many NBA players have been utilizing their social media platforms and community initiatives to have conversations about mental health. In the past, this certainly was not addressed in professional sports settings, yet players like Kevin Love, DeMar DeRozan, and DeAndre Jordan are leading conversations around the importance of mental health and wellness. During May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month, these three veteran athletes reflect on how their relationship with their mental health and well-being has evolved throughout their careers. Back in 2018, DeMar DeRozan opened up about his experiences with depression. He began his journey as a mental health advocate with authenticity and honesty, which led to conversations around well-being with other NBA athletes. He started a show titled Dinners with DeMar where he talked about mental health with other NBA players like Damian Lillard and Chris Paul. Despite many of the high-pressure moments throughout the NBA season, DeRozan still finds peace in the game of basketball itself. He refers to it as a sanctuary that goes back to his childhood. 'Basketball gave me the freedom to go out and decompress,' he explains. 'There's a peace between those four lines—that's how I approach the game and how I find clarity.' Maintaining perspective is what helps him navigate the highs and lows of the season. 'There are going to be peaks and valleys, but the way you approach those moments keeps you consistent.' When asked about the resources he's utilized to maintain his mental health and well-being, he credits many of his trusted coaches and teammates who took the time to connect with him about life, beyond the game of basketball. What mental wellness routine does he maintain today? DeRozan is a fan of daily cold plunges and sauna, and using different means of physical recovery to enhance his mental recovery as well. Mental and physical health are truly intertwined in many ways. 'Sometimes you feel better mentally just by taking care of your body physically,' DeRozan explains. DeMar DeRozan and Brook Choulet, M.D. Kevin Love has been one of the most prominent voices in the NBA on mental health. Back in 2018, he shared his struggles with anxiety after he experienced a panic attack during an NBA game. Since he publicly shared his story, he has played a pivotal role in normalizing mental health challenges in professional sports. Not only did Love raise awareness, but he also proceeded to live a life with daily self-care as well as taking action in the community. 'Taking care of my mental health isn't something you do reactively,' says Love. 'It has to be part of your everyday routine.' Off the court, Love has embraced new life transitions, such as being a father. 'It brought clarity to what really matters…I want my children to know that strength includes vulnerability and that expressing emotion is healthy.' Many players struggle with the transition from the daily grind of the NBA season to the off-season where there can be an abundance of downtime. Love speaks to his approach to the offseason and identifies it as a time for intentional rest. In addition to spending time with his family, he uses this time to engage in his nonprofit, the Kevin Love Fund, where he strives to help the next generation of athletes learn tools to help them thrive in the long run. Love says it best: 'Sometimes, the best recovery isn't doing more, it's learning how to just be for a bit.' This month, the Kevin Love Fund launched a free, evidence-based mental health curriculum for middle school through college-aged athletes. There are many skills taught to the student-athletes through the program such as tools for performance anxiety, emotional expression, and identity development. Love is passionate about helping other athletes recognize that their worth is not simply defined by their sport. 'I spent years thinking my only value came from basketball,' Love reflects. On the court, his mindset has shifted since becoming a father. 'I still want to compete and win, but I don't carry losses the same way—I carry love home with me, and that's grounding,' reflects Love. INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - NOVEMBER 15: Kevin Love #42 of the Miami Heat against theIndiana Pacers at ... More Gainbridge Fieldhouse on November 15, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by) DeAndre Jordan, who plays for the NBA's Denver Nuggets, is deep in a playoff run right now. He truly understands the added pressure that the post-season brings with it. What's Jordan's secret to maintaining clarity? He prioritizes focus: not by doing more but by filtering out the noise. Especially during the playoffs, Jordan notes, 'Eliminating a lot of outside noise daily is vital…hyper-focus has to be there during playoff games.' Another key to his success revolves around removing social media. 'I tend to eliminate social media during this time [playoffs] along with watching sports news and coverage on the playoffs,' says Jordan. He remains very routine-oriented, with a specific structure to his game days. 'The most important part of my mental prep on game days is relaxation and visualization,' reflects Jordan. He meditates and relaxes with his family, focusing on the present moment, rather than what's to come during the game. Jordan truly trusts the process and believes in the preparation he's done leading up to these high-pressure situations. 'I have prepared myself mentally and physically as best as I can for this moment of the season,' says Jordan. DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 13: DeAndre Jordan #6 and Russell Westbrook #4 of the Denver Nuggets ... More smile after a play in the second half against the LA Clippers at Ball Arena on December 13, 2024, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by) These insights from DeRozan, Love, and Jordan highlight progress in the NBA, as mental health is no longer a silent struggle in professional sports. Their leadership is setting the stage for more athletes to speak out and normalize these conversations, shifting the narrative toward valuing mental wellness as an essential part of overall athletic performance.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Kevin Love Reacts to the Dallas Mavericks Getting the No. 1 Pick
On Monday night, the NBA Draft Lottery delivered a seismic shock to the basketball world, and veteran NBA star Kevin Love couldn't hold back his reaction. The Dallas Mavericks, fresh off a controversial trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, defied the odds with a mere 1.8% chance to secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Advertisement Love, known for his candid social media presence, took to X with a succinct but telling post: 'I mean come on man,' capturing the disbelief and amusement that rippled through the league. The Mavericks' lottery win grants them the chance to draft Duke phenom Cooper Flagg, a player widely regarded as a generational talent. The victory comes just months after the trade that outraged Mavericks fans and sparked widespread speculation about the NBA's draft integrity. Nov 18, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Kevin Love (42) looks on against the Philadelphia 76ers during the third quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Love's post, while lighthearted, ignited a firestorm of responses from fans and analysts alike. His reaction, though brief, underscores the broader narrative of skepticism surrounding the NBA's lottery process. Advertisement The Mavericks' improbable leap to the top spot has fueled conspiracy theories, with some fans pointing to historical patterns of lottery luck following major trades to big markets like the Lakers. In spite of the conspiracy theories, the Mavericks now have a golden opportunity to turn their franchise around after losing a superstar in Doncic earlier this year. As the Mavericks looks to rebuild around Flagg, Love's humorous take mirrors the NBA community's mix of awe and suspicion at this unexpected turn of events. Related: What Giannis Antetokounmpo Would Cost the Heat in Potential Blockbuster Trade
News.com.au
13-05-2025
- Sport
- News.com.au
NBA world loses it over Draft Lottery as conspiracy theories erupt
The Dallas Mavericks have secured the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft in scenes that have left basketball fans furious. The Mavericks entered the Draft Lottery with a 1.8 per cent chance of securing the top spot, but it was their ball that won out. The pick comes months after the organisation severed ties with superstar Luka Doncic in a move that sparked fierce backlash not only among the team's own fan base but across the league. It is the first time in franchise history that Dallas moved up in the lottery after having only an 8.5 per cent chance of making the top four. Conspiracy theories the NBA Draft had been rigged immediately started taking off with fans furious the first overall pick was heading to Dallas despite their lowly odds at winning it. Basketball fans are now convinced the league stepped in to provide the top pick to the Mavericks to help soothe the fan base over in the wake of the Doncic trade. ESPN reporter Shams Charania said in the aftermath: 'This is unbelievable.' Lakers Nation wrote on X: 'So the Pelicans trade AD to the Lakers and then get the No. 1 pick. Now, the Mavericks trade Luka to the Lakers ... and then get the No. 1 pick.' The Ringer's Bill Simmons wrote: 'Oh get the f*** out of here. Come on.' Current NBA player Kevin Love wrote: 'There is no f***ing way.' Pardon My Take added: 'The Mavericks picking first overall ... NBA rigged.' Bryson Wright wrote: 'We all know the lottery is rigged but this is on a different level. Did the NBA promise them the 1st pick to get Luka to LA.' ðŸ'€ðŸ'€ðŸ'€ — PJ Washington (@PJWashington) May 12, 2025 the nba is never beating the rigged allegations — csb (@itsCSB__) May 12, 2025 The Mavericks can now set their sights on adding the consensus first overall pick in 18-year-old Cooper Flagg. The Duke standout has been described as the 'safest No.1 pick in ages' by Yahoo Sports' Kevin O'Connor. Flagg is coming off an impressive freshman season at Duke which saw him average 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.3 blocks per game. 'It's his growth as a shot creator that will decide if he reaches his All-Star floor or soars to his Hall of Fame ceiling,' O'Connor said. As was the case with now San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, the worst teams in the NBA had all the reasons in the world to tank as hard as they could down the stretch to give themselves the best chance of drafting Flagg. The 18-year-old has been generating hype for a number of years now, with Kevin Durant even declaring in an interview with Boardoom that Flagg can be 'one of the top players in the league for 15 years'. NBA Draft Lottery order 1. Mavericks 2. Spurs 3. 76ers 4. Hornets 5. Jazz 6. Wizards 7. Pelicans 8. Nets 9. Raptors 10. Rockets 11. Trail Blazers 12. Bulls 13. Hawks 14. Spurs
