Latest news with #MagicJohnson
Daily Mail
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
The Greek restaurant which has gone viral for its gushing Kylie Jenner post has a history of OTT celeb tributes, from 'legendary' Magic Johnson to Demi Moore's 'timeless beauty'
Their gushing post about Kylie Jenner visiting their restaurant has set the internet on fire. But Tassia in the Greek village of Fiscardo is no stranger to an over-the-top celebrity tribute. The Greek family restaurant can't help but share their pride when the rich and famous choose their establishment to dine at while on holiday. Shortly after reality star Kylie dined there last week, owners Polychronis Dendrinos and Tassia Dendrinou proudly posted about the 'true honor' of hosting the 'iconic entrepreneur and global trendsetter'. 'An inspiring guest, and one of the most influential women of her generation,' the Dendrinos Family wrote on Instagram. 'She experienced a taste of our Greek hospitality and cuisine. It was a true pleasure to host such a remarkable guest. We hope to welcome her again soon!' However Kylie is not the first to receive such sweet words, with the family previously welcoming the likes of Demi Moore, Oscar winner Samuel L. Jackson, Queen Camilla 's son Tom Parker Bowles, chef Rick Stein and former football manager Arsène Wenger. The last celebrity to grace Tassia was retired NBA star Magic Johnson on June 27, whom the owners described as a 'returning guest with legendary energy.' 'A true honor to welcome Magic Johnson back to our restaurant!' they wrote. 'A returning guest with legendary energy — thank you for choosing us again and embracing our Greek hospitality.' It was his second visit, after he dined on the same day as Django Unchained star Samuel and rapper Flo Rida back in 2022. The family wrote then: 'Yesterday we had the honor and privilege of being visited by three sparkling personalities with worldwide recognition, @magicjohnson, @samuelljackson & @official_flo. 'After trying several dishes from our kitchen and of course our famous lobster pasta, they complimented us on the professionalism and quality of our service. In the end, they gladly accepted to be photographed not only with Dendrinos family, but also with all of our staff. 'Let us highlight that they were very kind, humble and friendly. Thank you very much and we hope to see you again soon.' That same year, Oscar-nominated actress Demi Moore stopped by and they remarked that 'her timeless beauty and solid personality was bright enough to capture our hearts.' The Dendrinou family wrote at the time: 'Yesterday night the Hollywood actress @demimoore payed a visit to our family restaurant. We had the opportunity to meet her in person and treat her the best Kefalonian dishes. 'Her timeless beauty and solid personality was bright enough to capture our hearts. Thank you Demi and we hope to see you again soon.' Last August, French former football manager and player Arsène Wenger paid a visit to the restaurant. Sharing a picture of Arsène with two of the younger family members, Tassia wrote: 'It is a true honor to host the legendary Arsène Wenger, who is a visionary in the world of football, at @tassia_restaurant yesterday in Fiskardo Village! 'We're thankful for the unforgettable moments and wish him all the best in his ongoing journey. Can't wait to welcome you back, Arsène!' Among the other famous guests was British chef Rick Stein, to which the family said: 'A Memorable Visit by @chefrickstein. We were delighted to welcome the renowned British chef, television presenter, and seafood connoisseur, Rick Stein, to our family restaurant in enchanting Fiskardo Village, Kefalonia. 'Rick, it was a pleasure to share our authentic Greek cuisine and exchange ideas about different cuisines and flavors with you. Here's a delectable moment from his visit. As we near the end of the season, we're excited to share that Tassia's Restaurant continues to be a haven for guests seeking the genuine flavors of Greece. 'Join us to experience the allure that drew @chefrickstein to our doors. 'We extend our heartfelt thanks to Rick for gracing us with his presence, and we look forward to welcoming him as a friend anytime he wishes. Until we meet again!' Queen Camilla's son Tom Parker Bowles also dined there, with his gushing post reading: 'A Royal Thank You to Tom Parker Bowles! We had the privilege of hosting Tom Parker Bowles, the renowned British food writer, critic, and broadcaster, and son of Camilla, the Queen of the United Kingdom, at @tassia_restaurant in the charming Fiskardo Village of Kefalonia.
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE It's the Instagram-friendly Mediterranean gem beloved of the A-listers... but are hordes of half naked, badly behaved tourists now ruining the picture-perfect port?
It's just gone 9.30am and the first of dozens of ferries carrying hundreds of tourists has arrived in the picturesque port of Portofino. The tiny fishing village, described as one of Italy 's 'natural jewels', has a population in the winter of just 350 but in the summer, it can increase twenty-fold as day trippers, and influencers hit the tiny streets. It's a magnet for VIPs as well with NBA legend magic Johnson visiting earlier his month and rock legends Elton John and Rod Stewart being regulars. But it emerged this week that the town - famed for its pastel houses and pretty waterside square lined with cafes, restaurants and designer boutiques - is now such a must do stop off point for tourists that it's becoming overrun. And indeed when MailOnline visited this week, we found the tiny Instagram-famous town was heaving with visitors with its narrow streets frequently so crowded they were impassible. Now the huge daily influx of visitors has led to many complaining visitors don't know how to behave decently. So of earlier this week mayor Matteo Viacava has introduced a bylaw until September 30 warning travellers to behave respectfully and with a degree of decorum that befits a fashionable and wealthy town with the one of the highest prop capita salaries in Italy (£90,000). Wandering around bare chested or in a swimsuit is strictly forbidden, as is strolling barefoot, through the town. And if you are thinking of stretching out on one of the benches to catch a few rays or have a snooze don't even think about it as that's banned too, along with drinking alcohol in public and having a picnic. When MailOnline visited this week, we found the tiny Instagram-famous town was heaving with visitors with its narrow streets frequently so crowded they were impassible Sitting or lying on paths and in the park is also against the rules and mayor Viacava has said anyone who breaches the edict will face a fine of up to 500 Euro. (£433) The order, number 17 of the year, is on the council's website and in a lofty word heavy title called:' Measures to protect public safety and security and the tranquillity and rest of residents and guards and safeguard the territory and environment'. Totalling eight pages, the bylaw explains the motive for the rules as being the 'heavy influx of tourists into the area during the summer months' which has 'impacted on civility and decorum'. But the news doesn't appear to have reached everyone as when MailOnline visited Portofino several tourists were wandering around shirtless and in swimwear and oblivious of the law. Landscape architect Elias Halling, 35, from Gothenburg, Sweden, was strolling around the famous piazza topless, enjoying the scenery and was stunned when told by MailOnline he was breaking the law. 'Really ?!,' he gasped before adding:' To be honest I was wondering why people were looking at me in a weird way. I had no idea at all it was against the law. 'The place is beautiful, and so are a lot of the people, but I don't see what harm I'm doing by walking around bare chested. 'I suppose the mayor wants to keep standards high, you can tell this is quite an upmarket place by looking at all the designer shops and expensive restaurants. 'The fine seems a lot of money for something which is pretty trivial but if they want to have that kind of strange law then I suppose I had a better follow it even though its 35c and so hot.' A little further on and past the multimillion superyachts bobbing in the water and the jetty where yet more ferries are docking from nearby Genoa, Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure, MailOnline spotted another pair of transgressors. Standing by the water edge was bare chested Pieter Van Dooren, 31, and his shoeless girlfriend Lieke Schins, 25, first time visitors to Portofino and both overwhelmed by its beauty but unaware of its bylaw. Recruitment entrepreneur Pieter, from Tilburg, Holland, said:'Oh my goodness, I don't want to get into trouble. Five hundred Euro is a lot of money to pay for just not wearing a shirt.' If you are thinking of stretching out on one of the benches to catch a few rays or have a snooze don't even think about it as that's banned too, along with drinking alcohol in public and having a picnic As we spoke worried student Lieke, hurriedly slipped into her sandals in case she was spotted by local police and said:' I don't want a fine either.' Pieter added: 'This place is like a fantasy world, it is so beautiful, a paradise and so elegant and romantic, so maybe that explains why the mayor has introduced this law. 'But you've got me worried as technically standing talking to you now I am illegal, although we had no idea of this law, I just wasn't aware until you told me so I'm lucky to have met you. 'You can tell it is a high-class elegant place, so maybe that's why the law was brought in, there seems to be a lot of people here and he doesn't want people walking round drunk and half naked. Having said that, I had better put my shirt on now.' Lieke added: 'It is so pretty here but at the same time so expensive, we were charged 100 Euro for four Prosecco and a few pieces of melon and ham. 'We knew it wasn't cheap here but still 100 Euro is a lot of money, but the prices don't seem to put people off, it's so busy but I had no idea of this crazy law so I will put my sandals on.' Portofino is certainly not the place for those on a budget – glance at one menu revealed a breakfast of bacon, eggs and cappuccino was an eyewatering 25 Euro (£21), with service not included. Requests for an interview with the mayor and had of local police for MailOnline were politely declined, as were requests over how many fines have been issued since the law was introduced. Intriguingly at one-point MailOnline spotted another bare chested man and approached an officer to tell them of the infringement but was given a curt brush off:' I'm doing my job, I'm here on parking duty, you stick with your job.' Meanwhile in a further bid to control the crowds police have also set up a checkpoint a mile from Portofino, once the 160 official car park spaces in the multi storey are full no vehicles are allowed in. Instead, travellers have to use shuttle buses to get in and out of Portofino and it was only thanks to flashing a press card that MailOnline was allowed in, with the officer on duty saying:' It is rammed in there, so good luck finding a space and don't park illegally.' Portofino's beauty is quite clear to see but it's also evident many visitors are there on a tick boxing exercise merely to post on social media as one bizarre scene unfolded in front of MailOnline. Setting up a tripod, by the water's edge, one woman dressed all in white began doing a series of 'lives' to her followers, pointing out the sights and occasionally pulling the edge of her skirt back to reveal her thigh. One local waiter said: 'It's crazy, it just gets busier and busier every year and yes ok it's good for business, but the numbers are just too much and the class of visitor is also not what it used to be. 'People come and take selfies, and they walk around in swim wear or bare chested, some covered in tattoos and it's not very pleasant to look at, the locals are all in favour of this new law. 'On busy days we can get 5,000 people a day and then when a cruise ship turns up that can bring in another 2,000 so imagine all those people in a tiny place like this.' Cruise ships are the thorn in Portofino's side and anchor just off the coast as they are far too big to come any closer, ferrying travellers to and from in tenders that criss cross the crystal clear Ligurian Sea. A glance at cruise timetables reveals that between now and the end of the month six giant ships are due in – one every 48 hours carrying almost 8,000 travellers in total. A worker at one of the upmarket boutiques told MailOnline:' It's some of these people on cruise ships that have no idea how to behave. 'They come here dressed in hardly anything, lowering the tone of Portofino and just rush about taking selfies, we have a reputation for class and elegance and just want people to follow the rules.' Speaking to local media as the order was revealed, mayor Viacavo also revealed next year an app would be introduced 'controlling the number of visitors' to Portofino by locking onto the number of mobiles active in the area. Mr Viacavo declined to go into details of how exactly the app would work but added:' Portofino is a jewel, whatever time of day it is and wherever you are, there are always people here and we are working to improve visitor experience. 'I'm not talking about putting a limit on numbers, but what I am saying is we must be able to control these numbers to allow the quality of life of locals to continue and make the visitor experience comfortable, if not even better. 'What we hope to do with the app is show the best time to visit, when it is quieter, we are not going to close Portofino off, it is for everybody, and I can't say to someone 'You can't come in but you can'. But as yet another shirtless tourist strolled across the square unchallenged, you had to wonder whether the bylaw was a meaningful act of law or just a simple publicity stunt.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Ranking The 25 Greatest NBA Point Guards Of All Time
Ranking The 25 Greatest NBA Point Guards Of All Time originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Debating the greatest point guard in NBA history is always very personal, passionate, and liable to spark a firestorm. But when you sift through raw skill, accolades, dominance, clutch performance, longevity, and cultural impact, a clear hierarchy emerges. These 25 men ran offenses and essentially rewrote the playbook. We probably already have heard about the likes of Magic Johnson, the 6'9" phenom who practically invented 'Showtime", the greatest shooter ever, Stephen Curry, and even superstar-caliber guards such as Steve Nash and Jason Kidd. Even from there, it's a velvet-rope list of big names: Oscar Robertson, the original triple-double machine and two-time champ; Isiah Thomas, the Bad Boy spearhead. We haven't even mentioned John Stockton, the NBA's all-time assist leader, and even Bob Cousy, who was the first superstar floor general. So what's the ordering? Here is our definitive countdown of the 25 greatest point guards of all time. 25. Maurice Cheeks Player Stats: 11.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 1982-83 NBA Champion, 4x All-Star, 5x All-Defensive Team Selection, Hall of Fame Maurice Cheeks anchored one of the most fearsome defensive backcourts ever. Averaging 11.1 PPG, 6.7 APG, and 2.1 SPG, he was a four-time All-Defensive First Team selection. He led the 1983 Sixers to a championship, was an All-Star four times, and pioneered guard-level toughness and poise. Upon retirement, he ranked fifth in NBA history for assists and first in steals, and later transitioned seamlessly into coaching, including roles as head coach and assistant. His rock-solid floor management, defensive focus, and unshakeable leadership round out your list at 25. 24. Penny Hardaway Player Stats: 15.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG Career Accolades: 4x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection Standing 6'7", Penny Hardaway was the rare unicorn who could orchestrate, score, and guard at an elite level. Early in his career, he averaged 20/6/5 and, alongside Shaquille O'Neal, took Orlando to the 1995 Finals, posting 24.5 PPG and 8 APG against Houston. Four-time All-Star, three-time All-NBA, Hardaway was on track to redefine point guard size and skill. Aging and injuries eroded his trajectory, but his early-career nous, versatility, and pedigree earned him a spot here at 24. 23. Chauncey Billups Player Stats: 15.2 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 2003-04 NBA Champion, 2003-04 Finals MVP, 5x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x All-Defensive Team Selection, Hall of Fame Chauncey Billups earned his moniker by hitting the clutch shot that sealed a historic 2004 Finals upset over the Lakers. He averaged 15.2 PPG and 5.4 APG, earning 5 All-Star nods, 3 All-NBA honors, and 2 All-Defense selections, while bagging Finals MVP for his cerebral, ice-cold command. A veteran leader respected even into his late-career Denver stint, Billups anchored contenders and was repeatedly praised for his steady locker room presence. His longevity and clutch reputation make him one of the most complete and respected leaders in point guard lore. 22. Dave Bing Player Stats: 20.3 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 7x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection, 1967-68 Scoring Champion, 1966-67 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame While Bing is often forgotten and perhaps not known by the modern audience, he was a 20-point-per-game scorer, a 7-time All-Star, a Rookie of the Year, and a 1967-68 scoring champion. His impact went beyond the court: after retiring, Bing served as Detroit's mayor, cementing his place in the annals of influential player-citizens. He's a prototype for skill-forward guards, charging scoring and leadership roles when the point guard still played a hybrid scorer/distributor role in the 60s and 70s. Had Bing played today, his skillet would have translated perfectly. 21. Tim Hardaway Player Stats: 17.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 5x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, Hall of Fame Tim Hardaway's career was an on-court thrill ride; his lethal 'UTEP Two‑Step' crossover made defenders look silly and packed arenas. He hit 10,000 points and 2,500 assists faster than anyone except Oscar Robertson, achieved in just 262 games. A five-time All-Star and All-NBA selection, Hardaway routinely put up monster stat lines: he twice averaged 20 PPG with 10 APG and terrorized playoff defenses with multiple 8-steal games. His prime in Golden State's 'Run TMC' era was electrifying; he was the sparkplug of a fan-favorite trio that turned fast-paced offense into art. Though defensive lapses and injuries clipped the tail end of his career, his blend of scoring, playmaking, and flair solidifies him here at 21. 20. Lenny Wilkens Player Stats: 16.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 9x All-Star, 1969-70 Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Lenny Wilkens combined scoring (16.5 PPG), rebounding (4.7 RPG), and passing (6.7 APG) into a platform of consistency. A nine-time All-Star and the '70 assist leader, he later parlayed playing savviness into a Hall-of-Fame coaching legacy. As a player, his understanding and steady hand translated into team balance year after year. He symbolized longevity, not flashy, but effective, and paved the way for the analytical-minded guards to come. 19. Luka Doncic Player Stats: 28.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG Career Accolades: 5x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 2023-24 Scoring Champion, 2018-19 Rookie of the Year In just a few seasons, Luka Doncic has started to rewrite record books: averaging nearly 28/9/8 and earning five All-Star nods, five All-NBA selections, a scoring title, and Rookie of the Year. His size, court vision, and clutch scoring at 6'7' make him a positionless nightmare for defenses, and he already has a Finals appearance to his name. Still, Luka's prime lies ahead, and that's why he sits here at 19. He's on a Hall-of-Fame trajectory, but heritage matters. Until he secures deep playoff runs or a title, his status will hover between superstar and all-time legend-in-waiting. What he's done is astonishing; what he may yet become could redefine the list entirely. 18. Nate Archibald Players Stats: 18.8 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 1980-81 NBA Champion, 6x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 1972-73 Scoring Champion, 1972-73 Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Tiny Archibald led the league in both scoring and assists (1972-73), a feat unreplicated since. With 18.8 PPG, 7.4 APG, he was lightning quick and battle-hardened. A six-time All-Star and a champion in 1981, Archibald was a perimeter heater who commanded every facet of offense. His championships with the Boston Celtics showed versatility across eras because he was 32 years old at the time. Essentially, Archibald left a blueprint for do-it-all guards, getting buckets, setting teammates, and smiling through it all. 17. Damian Lillard Players Stats: 25.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 9x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 2012-13 Rookie of the Year Not just the deep-shot king, Damian Lillard's rangy frame and fearless demeanor produced jaw-dropping shots across seven All-NBA selections. A true multi-season 25/4/7 performer, Lillard is the ultimate modern mid-size point guard: sniper and motivational force tied to his city. He anchored Portland's identity, expecting greatness from teammates and delivering it himself. While championship glory has eluded him, his late-game heroics and loyalty made him the face of an entire franchise, and we hope he can one day win a title. 16. Dennis Johnson Player Stats: 14.1 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG Career Accolades: 3x NBA Champion, 1978-79 Finals MVP, 5x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, Hall of Fame 'D.J.' was the archetype of clutch. A three-time champion ('79 Finals MVP included), five All-Star, a nine-time All-Defense, and a constant defensive nightmare for opposing guards. From Seattle to Phoenix and Boston, Johnson embodied grit and defensive brilliance. His mid-career trade to the Celtics unlocked a new role: deadly clutch scoring, lockdown defense, and chemistry with Larry Bird, earning him legendary status. His number's in the rafters, but his redemptive arc from misunderstood to cornerstone is what lives forever. 15. Derrick Rose Players Stats: 17.4 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 5.2 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 2010-11 MVP, 3x All-Star, 2010-11 All-NBA Team Selection, 2008-09 Rookie of the Year Derrick Rose's ascension was breathtaking: at 22, he became the youngest MVP ever (2011), averaging 25 PPG, nearly 8 APG, and 4 RPG. His explosive drives and 40' vertical jump made him a highlight trap. But injuries struck, ACL tears that derailed a sky-high trajectory. What followed was nothing short of legendary resilience. He reinvented himself, weathering injuries to remain productive and respected, earning a jersey retirement by the Bulls. Rose's MVP season remains a true stamp of rare athletic primacy, even if that season was brief. 14. Tony Parker Players Stats: 15.5 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 5.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 4x NBA Champion, 2006-07 Finals MVP, 6x All-Star, 4x All-NBA Team Selection, Hall of Fame Tony Parker wasn't the most explosive athlete, but his speed, blinding and surgical, regularly disassembled defenses. A four-time champ and the Finals MVP in 2007, Parker's Euro-step took over an era. With solid averages (15.5 PPG, 5.6 APG) and six All-Star selections, he brought European finesse into the Spurs' championship DNA. Parker's legacy is quiet efficiency: precision playmaking, high shooting accuracy, and the ability to thrive in clutch moments. His leadership and adaptability in Gregg Popovich's system helped San Antonio become the league's constant contender. If this were a list of purely championships won alone, Parker would probably rank a lot higher 13. Walt Frazier Players Stats: 18.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 7x All-Star, 6x All-NBA Team Selection, 7x All-Defensive Team Selection, Hall of Famer Walt 'Clyde' Frazier combined breath‑stealing defense with silky offense. His 1.9 SPG, 5.9 RPG, and 6.1 APG reflect his two-way dominance. A seven-time All-Star and six-time All-NBA guard, he anchored the Knicks' first-ever NBA titles (1970, 1973) with two-way consistency and swing-man scoring. More than numbers, Frazier brought swagger: on-court swagger and flair off it, becoming a cultural icon in New York. He blended defense with grace, reputation with results, defining what a point guard could be in reputation and reality. 12. Russell Westbrook Players Stats: 21.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 8.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 2016-17 MVP, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 3x Assist Champion Among everything else, Russell Westbrook continues to redefine hustle. He owns the NBA record for career triple-doubles, finished a 2017 MVP season with 31 triple-doubles, and has accounted for 9x All-Star and 9x All-NBA honors. Everywhere he goes, Thunder, Lakers, Clippers, Nuggets, his intense motor and fearless driving energize teammates and arenas alike. Westbrook's inefficiency and defensive lapses occasionally weigh on his efficiency, but his sheer force of will and statistical dominance make him impossible to ignore. He may not redefine efficiency and control like his peers, but no one embodies determination like Russ, one of the most criticized players in NBA history. 11. Kyrie Irving Players Stats: 23.7 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG Career Accolades: 2015-16 NBA Champion, 9x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection, 2011-12 Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving's game is a highlight reel, exquisite handles, mid‑range craft, and a game-winning mindset that peaked with his iconic three‑pointer in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals. Averaging 23.7 PPG, 5.6 APG, and 1.3 SPG, he punched above his weight despite sharing the court with LeBron. His offensive arsenal is tremendous: Euro-step finishes, pull-up triples, and dizzying crossovers that consistently break defenders' ankles. Yet Irving's career is a mosaic of brilliance and "what-ifs." While he earned a ring early, six All-Star nods, and three All-NBA selections, moments of personal controversy and lack of playoff stability with Cleveland and Brooklyn have clouded his peak. Still, at his best, he's a generational talent, perhaps the purest offensive assassin the 3-point era has produced. 10. Bob Cousy Players Stats: 18.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 7.5 APG Career Accolades: 6x NBA Champion, 1956-1957 MVP, 13x All-Star, 12x All-NBA Team Selection, 8x Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Before modern flash, there was Bob Cousy, the man who introduced behind-the-back passes in the 1950s. Career stats of 18.4 PPG, 7.5 APG may seem modest today, but in his era, he was revolutionary. He won six titles and the first-ever MVP award alongside Bill Russell in '57, becoming the NBA's first true megastar. Cousy's vision and ballhandling popularized the point guard position, the first real floor general whose flair on the court translated into cultural influence. Without him, the guard evolution wouldn't have snapped into place. Yes, it was long ago, and some of the video clips of him dribbling seem forgettable, but Cousy was the OG of point guards. 9. Gary Payton Players Stats: 16.3 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 2005-06 NBA Champion, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1995-96 Defensive Player of the Year, 1995-96 Steals Champion, 1990-91 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame Gary "The Glove" Payton was a winning player, make no mistake about that. Averaging 16.3 PPG, 6.7 APG, and 1.8 SPG, he was a menace on the perimeter and one of the fiercest defenders the league has seen. In 1996, he became the only point guard in NBA history to win Defensive Player of the Year, and the only one to share that honor with Marcus Smart until this day. That same season, he led the league in steals and locked down opponents with relentlessness and attitude. A champion in 2006, a nine-time All-Star, and a nine-time All-Defense selection, Payton defined defensive dominance at the point guard position. 8. Chris Paul Players Stats: 18.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 9.4 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, 6x Steals Champion, 2005-06 Rookie of the Year When Chris Paul arrived in 2005, he brought ice-water composure. Averaging 18.3 PPG, 9.4 APG, and 2.1 SPG, his statistical imprint demanded respect. He led the league in assists five times and steals six times. He wasn't just a general; he was also the game's defensive pest on both the stat sheet and on the court. His leadership has lifted almost every team, Hornets, Clippers, Rockets, Thunder, Suns, to higher ceilings. His basketball IQ is elite, his midrange scoring spot-on, and his tenacious defense made him a perfect point guard. Not winning the NBA title in 2021 is probably the only reason he isn't in the top five. 7. Steve Nash Players Stats: 14.3 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 8.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 2x MVP, 8x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Steve Nash didn't overwhelm with jaw-dropping career stats, 14.3 PPG and 8.5 APG, but he manipulated defenses like a grandmaster and was the original version of James Harden when it came to owning an offensive system. His back-to-back MVPs in '05 and '06 validated his elite impact. Nash's Suns didn't just score, they created a movement: 'Seven Seconds or Less' basketball that inspired today's pace. A perennial All-Star coach favorite, Nash prioritized ball movement and shot-making, and he is also one of the 10 greatest pure shooters in NBA history. 6. John Stockon Players Stats: 13.1 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 10.5 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 10x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 5x All-Defensive Team Selection, 9x Assist Champion, 2x Steals Champion, Hall of Fame John Stockton not having an NBA championship with a 0-2 Finals record is the only reason he isn't in the top five. Regardless, Stockton is the rock-solid rock upon which Utah's success was built. With career averages of 10.5 APG and 2.2 SPG, he redefined floor management. His assist dominance earned him nine seasons as the league's top passer. Stockton and Malone propelled the Jazz to back-to-back Finals, a vintage pick‑and‑roll show run nearly unmatched. Stockton was the embodiment of consistency and durability; he never missed a playoff game. A 10-time All-Star, a defensive stalwart, and the all-time leader in both assists and steals, he belongs firmly atop any elite point guard conversation. 5. Jason Kidd Players Stats: 12.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 2010-11 NBA Champion, 10x All-Star, 6x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, 1994-95 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame Jason Kidd was a triple-double artist before it became trendy. He compiled 12.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 8.7 APG, and was a supreme floor leader and defensive maestro. How many point guards are responsible for leading their team to back-to-back Finals without All-Star help? We will wait. His legendary court vision and rebounding from the point guard spot allowed his teams to flow at an elite level, and in 2011, he finally capped his career with an emotional championship for the Dallas Mavericks. Kidd's passing, defense, and late-career scoring tweaks prove he evolved continually. As a nine-time All-Defensive selection and Hall of Famer, his placement at five is no accident. 4. Isiah Thomas Players Stats: 19.2 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 9.3 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 1989-90 Finals MVP, 12x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 1984-85 Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Ask anyone who lived through the 1980s, and they will admit that Isiah Thomas was the heart and soul of the Bad Boys Pistons, a fearless leader built for clutch moments. His career stats (19.2 PPG, 9.3 APG) disguise a ferocity and competitive will that made him one of the greatest clutch performers ever. Two championships and a Finals MVP in 1990 underscore his playoff heroics. But his legacy is about pure swagger as well. Thomas' cold-blooded knockout punch to Bird in '84, the unselfishness of his leadership, and rivaling legends in that era define a player who delivered in the toughest of battles. A five-time All-NBA guard and Hall of Famer, Thomas was built for war, and he delivered year after year. You can argue against Isiah not being this high, but we aren't going to listen. 3. Stephen Curry Players Stats: 24.5 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 4x NBA Champion, 2021-22 Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 7x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 2015-16 Steals Champion Stephen Curry is the revolution of today's game. He changed defense with shooting, kicking off a three-point revolution that's reshaped modern offenses. Averaging 24.5 PPG and 6.0 APG, while posting elite shooting splits (including two scoring titles), he towers as the greatest shooter ever. Yet let's be honest: his game isn't without limitations. His lack of size and length remains a defensive Achilles heel, and that's why he misses the top two. Critically, we must resist recency bias: yes, Curry crafts offenses like Picasso, but regarding all-around impact when his shots aren't falling, he doesn't match Magic or Oscar as an all-around athlete or impact player. Still, for shooting alone, Curry is unmatched, and his four championships and two MVPs confirm his superstar status. We see that Curry's greatness arrives primarily through offense in an elite Golden State Warriors system, while the legends ahead of him impacted the game in every facet. 2. Oscar Robertson Players Stats: 25.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 1970-71 NBA Champion, 1963-1964 MVP, 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 6x Assist Champion, 1960-1961 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame Oscar Robertson was basketball's first complete guard, an athletic marvel who averaged a triple-double (30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, 11.4 assists) during the 1961-62 season. His 25.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, and 9.5 APG career averages speak to a dominant all-around prowess. But beyond the numbers, he used his stature and skill to pioneer guard-centric scoring and rebounding. He shattered positional norms, combining size, vision, and physicality to lead the league in both points and assists. His role in pushing through the NBA free agency lawsuit laid the groundwork for players to control their careers. Robertson's championship pedigree and being the 1964 MVP cements him as the true blueprint for modern, multidimensional point guards. 1. Magic Johnson Players Stats: 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG Career Accolades: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 4x Assist Champion, 2x Steals Champion, Hall of Fame Earvin "Magic" Johnson built masterpieces on the hardwood, and he is without a doubt the GOAT of point guards. With career averages of 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, and a still-unmatched 11.2 APG, he owns the all-time highest assists-per-game mark. His passing was poetic, revolutionizing fastbreak execution, creating the 'Showtime' identity of the 1980s Lakers. As a rookie, Magic famously played center in Game 6 of the 1980 Finals, posting 42 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists, and earning Finals MVP, becoming the only rookie in NBA history to do so. Beyond five rings and three MVPs, Magic's impact transcended statistics. He ushered in a new era of positional versatility. At 6'9", he redefined what a point guard could be. His triple-doubles in Finals clinchers and league-leading assist titles underscore that he wasn't just a showman; he was the standard-bearer at his story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
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Ranking The Greatest Fast Break/Transition Players In NBA History
Ranking The Greatest Fast Break/Transition Players In NBA History originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Fast breaks are more than flashy highlights; they're game-deciders. And some players didn't just run; they completely ruled the open court. Magic Johnson made fast breaks an art form, waltzing downcourt with no-look dimes that turned transition into Showtime with the Los Angeles Lakers. Allen Iverson shattered ankles, exploding full-speed with 'jet-engine legs' that made defenders pray for the whistle. Then came LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo, giants who sprint faster than most guards, punish every broken defense, and scatter rim defenders instantly. But these aren't the only ones. Using a mix of sheer size, speed, court vision, and creativity, each rewrote full‑court play into an unstoppable weapon. Let's rank the 30 greatest fast-break artists into five tiers to see who ranks above the rest. Tier 1 LeBron James, Magic Johnson, Giannis Antetokounmpo LeBron James blends freakish size, speed, and court vision. He dominated it, grabbing rebounds, igniting the break with horsepower and then finishing with power or precision, making it nearly impossible for defenses to recover. His versatility in transition, pushing, passing, threatening, and powering through lets him dictate the pace, creating mismatches and highlight-reel chaos even in his late 30s and early 40s. Magic Johnson was the architect of 'Showtime', a transition offense built on visionary no-look passes, alley-oops, and point-forward dominance. At 6'9", he redefined fast-break guard play, posting an unmatched 11.2 APG career average and frequently turning defense into offense with flair. Magic was must-see TV because of his ability on the break. Giannis Antetokounmpo brings a modern, unstoppable blend of size and acceleration; his full-court charges resemble a freight train, bulldozing defenses and finishing with thunderous dunks. Some analysts even label him the greatest fast-break threat ever, given his efficiency in yard-line transition scoring, and we find that argument very fair. Regardless, he's in Tier 1 with LeBron and Magic. Tier 2 Russell Westbrook, Jason Kidd, Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson Russell Westbrook holds the single-season record for fast-break points (8.2 PPG in 2014-15), a testament to his raw pace and relentless aggression on the break. He'd push every possession like a track race, and it was incredibly fun to watch during his prime. Jason Kidd was the consummate transition facilitator; his precision outlet passing and court sense ignited countless break opportunities, making the Nets and Suns some of the most efficient early-offense teams of the 2000s. Kidd's fast-break prowess was behind the Nets' making the Finals on two occasions. Michael Jordan turned breaks into scoring showcases with his explosive first step and mid-air control. When he got out ahead of the defense, it was near-certain he'd either finish or draw awe-struck cheers. Anytime there is a category that comes to offense, the GOAT will rank towards the top. Allen Iverson exploded through defenses with jet-engine legs. His low center of gravity and fearless downhill attacks made him possibly the most electrifying guard in transition, particularly in his prime. Four scoring titles came mainly as a result of the guard's quickness in the open court. Tier 3 Derrick Rose, Dwyane Wade, Steve Nash, John Wall, Kobe Bryant, Oscar Robertson Derrick Rose in 2010-11 was a blur in transition; his 4.5-second bursts turned defensive boards into near-automatic finishing, explosive enough to consistently leave opposing backcourts scrambling. Dwyane Wade melded speed, craft, and finesse; his signature one-two step was a transition nightmare, consistently drawing fouls or closing with crafty finishes at the rim. We can't forget how dominant "Flash" was during his prime with the Heat. Steve Nash courted pace with precision; his playmaking in transition wasn't about speed but timing, turning early offense into rhythm and open shots for teammates. Nash was great in the half-court as well, but his transition game probably got him the two MVP awards. John Wall, in his prime, was a speedster who did everything, rebounds, outlet passes, coast-to-coast finishes, and embodied pure transition tempo. One of the fastest players of all time, Wall is easily in Tier 3. Kobe Bryant may not have led the team in fast-break stats, but he struck with devastating efficiency when he got out. His competitive gear turned break opportunities into hard-earned buckets. He also put a couple of players on iconic posters as well. Oscar Robertson was basketball's prototype triple-double man; his size, vision, and pace set the stage for modern transition play and were a mismatch machine before the fast-break was even fully tracked. Tier 4 Tracy McGrady, Manu Ginobili, Larry Bird, Scottie Pippen, Charles Barkley, Tony Parker, Stephen Curry, Wilt Chamberlain T-Mac was born for highlight-reel fast breaks. He'd explode down the lane, spin off slower defenders, and either dunk thunderously or hit that silky pull-up; his bursts were 'almost violently' sudden and deadly effective. McGrady's self alley-oops on the break were a thing of beauty as well. The stealthy architect of the transition Euro-step, Manu Ginobili, would burst ahead, break ankles in mid-air, and finish with crafty floaters or off-hand tags, his creativity and timing made defenses look helpless as he sliced through seams. Not famed for sprinting speed, Larry Bird's transition game relied on cerebral timing. His sharp, catch-and-fire passes in early offense often turned routine stops into immediate scoring chances, making his court IQ just as dangerous as any fast break athlete. The ultimate wing-driver in transition, Scottie Pippen used length, speed, and defensive anticipation to run lanes off steals or rebounds, his layups and open-court reads anchored some of Jordan's most lethal breakouts. "The Round Mound of Rebound", Charles Barkley, was a bulldozer on the break, snagging offensive boards and crashing the paint with brute strength. His tornado dribble and step-in layups made him a consistent, physical threat ahead of the pack. With a lightning-fast step, Tony Parker would puncture defenses in the blink of an eye. His transition scoring was defined not by raw speed but by pinpoint timing; he'd slip free and hit floaters or dishes before defenders blinked. Transition became even deadlier with Stephen Curry's micro-bursts and ball-handling wizardry. Not the fastest, but his shift-in-speed seconds into a fast break made early offense chaos for opponents, often pulling up or feeding streaking teammates. Even when early breaks weren't tracked, Wilt Chamberlain's trailing sprints and alley-oop finishes were unstoppable. His pre-stats dominance in transition was built on size, strength, and unmatched athleticism; he owned the offensive glass and immediate put-backs. Tier 5 Clyde Drexler, Chris Paul, Chauncey Billups, Gary Payton, Rajon Rondo, Penny Hardaway, Kevin Durant, Julius Erving, Shawn Kemp Clyde 'The Glide' Drexler earned his nickname, and not just for dunking. He routinely grabbed rebounds or steals, then coasted downcourt with ease. His fast-break playmaking? Legendary. A Blazers/Rockets stalwart in 2-on-1s, using full-speed pocket passes and dunks to dominate. Chris Paul didn't look like a breakaway threat, but he played chess in transition, probing defenses, pushing just until lanes opened, then either finishing or dishing with surgical accuracy. He made every break feel like a question whose answer was always 'he'll find the open man.' Mr. Big Shot brought calm and foresight to the transition. His late-game break decisions, when to pull up or pass, were precise, efficient, and clutch, turning potential fritters into composed, intelligent buckets. Gary Payton combined defensive intensity with sprint-like offense. He'd force turnovers with those same hands, then sprint the break, finishing aggressively or finding cutters on the fly; his competitiveness set the tone. Transition Rajon Rondo meant vision first, long rebounds, quick hands, and threading passes ahead of the pack. His IQ unlocked break offense not by speed but by timing, making unnoticed hustles turn into buckets. A smooth, 6'7" point forward in transition, Penny glided downcourt, finishing with savvy floaters or whipping perfect dishes. His ease in stride and feel for space made him a uniquely graceful transition threat. Kevin Durant's quiet bursts in transition, a few steps, pull-up, back down, made him a lethal threat. Even without elite speed, his pull-up jumper became the transition weapon: unstoppable, efficient, and delivered with ice in his veins. Julius Erving ushered in the high-flying break, those soaring coast-to-coast slams and awe-inspiring finishes weren't just spectacles, they redefined how fast breaks looked and felt. His aerial artistry in motion stays legendary. Pure dunk energy on wheels. Kemp's transition jams, high-speed, thunderous, punched defenses in the mouth, turning stops into momentum-shifting highlight explosions that echoed through story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
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Ex-NBA Player Selects Stephen Curry Ahead Of Magic Johnson, Claims "Steph Saved Everybody"
Ex-NBA Player Selects Stephen Curry Ahead Of Magic Johnson, Claims "Steph Saved Everybody" originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Stephen Curry and Magic Johnson are widely regarded as two of the greatest point guards to have ever played in the NBA. While most rankings place Johnson's legacy and contributions to the game above Curry's, former NBA player Jeff Teague offered a different perspective. In a recent episode of the "Club 520 Podcast", Teague explained why he would rank Curry ahead of Johnson. He said: "I know Magic saved the league. I know he saved the league, him and Larry Bird saved the NBA, I get it. So there's no made it cool to be a big point guard. But Steph saved everybody." While addressing Bleacher Report's NBA Top 100 list, Teague suggested a switch between Magic and Curry, claiming that the latter was the greatest point guard ever. "What he did at 6'3", bro," he continued. "The thing about Magic Johnson was, he was the better player anyway because he's 6'9". He could've played center." While the panel continued to debate what a 1v1 matchup between Johnson and Curry would look like, Teague added, "Have you ever seen Magic Johnson move? He had no chance in hell guarding Steph Curry?" Teague presents an interesting take, though it may not fully capture either player's greatness. As Johnson was with the Los Angeles Lakers, Curry has been with the Golden State Warriors. Both players, with their respective teams, have redefined the sport in their way. Johnson's flamboyant and versatile playmaking at his size challenged the traditional perceptions of the point guard position. With his ability to find his teammates in transition, the Lakers legend ushered in the era of "showtime" basketball, reinvigorating the team, as well as the league. Meanwhile, Curry has fundamentally reshaped how the modern game is played. With his transcendent three-point shooting ability, the Warriors guard transformed the outlook towards perimeter shooting. Today, the three-point shot is a must-have in virtually every player's arsenal, regardless of position. Comparing the two players in a 1v1 setup is quite redundant. Curry's quickness and shooting ability would be a horrible match for Johnson. Similarly, the physical difference owed to Johnson's size and strength would be a challenge for the Warriors' guard to overcome. Such comparisons fall short, as they ignore the best aspects of each player's style of play, exemplifying that when it comes to comparing greatness, the 1v1 outlook is quite limited. Bleacher Report ranked Magic Johnson at No. 4, while Stephen Curry barely made it into the top 10. While this has sparked some debate, especially with Kobe Bryant being ranked No. 11, the aspect of subjective taste is bound to see the rise of differential opinions. Johnson ended his career with five NBA titles to his name, while Curry has secured four thus far. Given how successful both have been in their careers, including their impact on the game itself, it is safe to say that they certainly are among the greatest to have ever done story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 20, 2025, where it first appeared.
