Latest news with #Philadelphia76ers
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Sport
- Time of India
'He's the face of the NBA': Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George shares bold declaration about Tyrese Haliburton amid Indiana Pacers' conference finals run
Tyrese Haliburton and Paul George. Image via: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Bill Streicher-Imagn Images The Indiana Pacers are inches closer to what could be a historic return to the NBA Finals. Now, all eyes are on their young star Tyrese Haliburton. While Indiana stumbled in Game 5 against the New York Knicks, the spotlight remains firmly on Haliburton. Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George recently delivered high praise, calling Haliburton 'the face of the NBA' while asserting that Haliburton is reaching superstardom. Paul George hails Tyrese Haliburton as a superstar in the making In his recent podcast Podcast P with Paul George, Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George didn't hold back when discussing Haliburton's emergence as a league leader. 'He's the face of the NBA,' George declared. 'I've heard a lot of people critique Tyrese Haliburton. Some of it's fair, some of it's a stretch… This is his coming out party. He's established now. This is what we expect from him on a nightly basis.' Paul George on If Tyrese Haliburton Has Reached Superstar Status George acknowledged Haliburton's role in the Pacers' postseason success, including leading the team to the NBA's first in-season tournament and showing consistent late-game heroics. 'He's been a clutch performer late in games. I think he's got one of the highest closing percentages in the NBA,' George said. 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 'He's proven he's reliable as the number one option.' Although Haliburton is primarily a pass-first point guard, George praised his versatility, 'He can be your late-game scorer. He can be an isolation player… He scratched the surface of superstardom. He's here.' But with high praise comes high expectations, and that pressure showed in Game 5. The Pacers fell flat in Madison Square Garden, losing 111-94 and allowing the Knicks to cut the series deficit to 3-2. Haliburton, who was electric in Game 4 with a triple-double, managed just 8 points in the loss. Following the game, Haliburton was not losing his mind over the loss. He urged his team to stay focused. 'We're a resilient group,' he told ESPN. 'We understand what the stakes are... We're fine. There's no need to panic or anything.' That mindset will be crucial in Game 6, especially with analysts like Charles Barkley calling it a 'must-win' for Indiana. If they lose at home, a Game 7 in New York looms. Also Read: Tyrese Haliburton vs Jalen Brunson – Who has better stats in the Eastern Conference Finals 2025? Paul George summed it up, 'You show that you can do it on a night-in, night-out basis. Now with the target on your back, that's when you're bonafide. That's when you're solidified.' For Haliburton and the Pacers, Game 6 could be that defining moment.
Economic Times
6 hours ago
- Sport
- Economic Times
Former NBA star Michael Carter-Williams wins boxing debut, begins new chapter after basketball retirement
Michael Carter-Williams, former NBA Rookie of the Year, raises his gloves in victory after winning his amateur boxing debut at the Broad Street Brawl in New York Michael Carter-Williams, the 2014 NBA Rookie of the Year, has successfully transitioned from the basketball court to the boxing ring. The 33-year-old made his amateur boxing debut at the Broad Street Brawl in New York City on May 29, securing a unanimous decision victory over 36-year-old Sam Khatib in a three-round heavyweight event was more than just a sporting contest; it served a noble cause. Proceeds from the match benefited Bigvision Community, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting young adults recovering from substance journey to the ring is rooted in a lifelong passion for competition. In a recent interview on "The Ariel Helwani Show," he expressed his motivation: "I've been competing my whole life, and that's something I want to do. I want to continue to compete. I respect the sport (of boxing). I'm a big fan. I watch a lot. I've got a lot of friends who fight". His NBA career, which began with a standout rookie season averaging 16.7 points, 6.3 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game, was marred by injuries that limited his playing time in subsequent years. After stints with several teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Orlando Magic, he retired from professional basketball in October 2024. Despite the challenges, Carter-Williams has found a new avenue to channel his competitive spirit. He has been training diligently, and his performance in the ring suggests a promising future in boxing. Promoter Ronson Frank of Uprising Promotions noted, "He is very prideful, athletic, and I think he can do well as an amateur fighter." Carter-Williams remains grounded and focused. "I don't know where it's going to take me or where it's going to lead me," he said. "I know that there's an avenue for people who played professional sports, who enter the boxing ring. There's a lane there. I don't know, I'm kind of taking it one step at a time. It's one of those things I definitely want to keep getting better at".
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Former NBA star Michael Carter-Williams wins boxing debut, begins new chapter after basketball retirement
Michael Carter-Williams , the 2014 NBA Rookie of the Year , has successfully transitioned from the basketball court to the boxing ring. The 33-year-old made his amateur boxing debut at the Broad Street Brawl in New York City on May 29, securing a unanimous decision victory over 36-year-old Sam Khatib in a three-round heavyweight bout. The event was more than just a sporting contest; it served a noble cause. Proceeds from the match benefited Bigvision Community, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting young adults recovering from substance abuse. Carter-Williams' journey to the ring is rooted in a lifelong passion for competition. In a recent interview on "The Ariel Helwani Show," he expressed his motivation: "I've been competing my whole life, and that's something I want to do. I want to continue to compete. I respect the sport (of boxing). I'm a big fan. I watch a lot. I've got a lot of friends who fight". His NBA career, which began with a standout rookie season averaging 16.7 points, 6.3 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game, was marred by injuries that limited his playing time in subsequent years. After stints with several teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Orlando Magic, he retired from professional basketball in October 2024. Despite the challenges, Carter-Williams has found a new avenue to channel his competitive spirit. He has been training diligently, and his performance in the ring suggests a promising future in boxing. Promoter Ronson Frank of Uprising Promotions noted, "He is very prideful, athletic, and I think he can do well as an amateur fighter." Live Events Carter-Williams remains grounded and focused. "I don't know where it's going to take me or where it's going to lead me," he said. "I know that there's an avenue for people who played professional sports, who enter the boxing ring. There's a lane there. I don't know, I'm kind of taking it one step at a time. It's one of those things I definitely want to keep getting better at".
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
5 NBA Stars Philadelphia 76ers Can Acquire By Trading No. 3 Overall Pick
After a dismal 24–58 season that saw the Philadelphia 76ers miss the playoffs for the first time since 2017, the franchise faces a pivotal offseason. Despite high expectations following the acquisition of Paul George, the team struggled with injuries and underperformance, leading to a disappointing 13th-seed finish in the Eastern Conference. Now, holding the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Sixers have a valuable asset that could be leveraged to acquire a proven star to complement Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The team might be open to trading this pick, with potential targets including Zion Williamson and even Trae Young. Such a move could provide the immediate impact needed to return the Sixers to championship contention. Advertisement In the following sections, we will explore five NBA stars the 76ers could pursue by trading the No. 3 pick, analyzing how each could fit into Philadelphia's roster and contribute to a potential title run. 1. Kevin Durant Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts against the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half at Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Kevin Durant Phoenix Suns Receive: Paul George, Quentin Grimes (Sign-and-Trade), 2025 No. 3 Overall Pick Kevin Durant continued to defy age (approaching 37 years old), delivering elite performances in his 17th NBA season despite a horrific season for the Phoenix Suns. In the 2024–25 campaign, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, shooting an efficient 52.7% from the field and 43.0% from beyond the arc. Advertisement His scoring prowess and experience make him a valuable asset for any championship-contending team, which is why he will almost certainly be moved this summer. For the Philadelphia 76ers, acquiring Durant would add a proven scorer to complement Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Durant's ability to create his own shot and stretch defenses could open up opportunities for Embiid in the post and Maxey on the perimeter. Paul George and the No. 3 overall pick will likely never amount to what KD can do for a title-contender, so the 76ers will need to go all-in as soon as possible to maximize their All-Star-quality core. 2. Zion Williamson New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) controls the ball in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Zion Williamson New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Quentin Grimes (Sign-and-Trade), Kelly Oubre Jr. (Sign-and-Trade), 2025 No. 3 Overall Pick, 2028 Second-Round Pick (PHI), 2031 Second-Round Pick (PHI) Zion Williamson's 2024–25 season with the New Orleans Pelicans was marked by both impressive performance and injury setbacks. In the 30 games he played, Williamson averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, shooting an efficient 56.7% from the field. However, his season was cut short due to a back injury, and that is why we have heard rumblings that the Pelicans are done with the former All-Star. Advertisement For the Philadelphia 76ers, acquiring Williamson could provide a dynamic frontcourt partner for Joel Embiid. Williamson's ability to drive to the basket and create plays could complement Embiid's post presence and Tyrese Maxey's perimeter shooting. However, the 76ers would need to consider the risk associated with Williamson's injury history, especially given the significant assets required for the trade, including the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Considering how bad the Sixers were this past season, perhaps this risk is necessary. 3. Trae Young Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) drives to the basket against the Los Angeles Lakers in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Trae Young Atlanta Hawks Receive: Quentin Grimes (Sign-and-Trade), Kelly Oubre Jr. (Sign-and-Trade), Jared McCain, 2025 No. 3 Overall Pick Trae Young led the NBA in assists during the 2024–25 season for the Atlanta Hawks, averaging 11.6 per game, along with 24.2 points. Unfortunately, it hasn't amounted to enough wins, which is why the point guard's future is murky right now. Advertisement His playmaking ability and scoring prowess make him an attractive option for the 76ers, who could use a dynamic point guard to orchestrate their offense. We don't often see two smaller guards start for a title-contender, but this case could be different. Pairing Young with Embiid and Maxey could create a potent offensive trio. Young's ability to stretch defenses with his shooting and facilitate scoring opportunities would alleviate pressure on Embiid and open up the floor for Maxey. Trae has proven he can take a team to the Eastern Conference Finals before, so perhaps he is the missing piece for Embiid. 4. Zach LaVine Mar 10, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine (8) dribbles the ball up the court against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Zach LaVine Chicago Bulls Receive: Paul George, 2025 No. 3 Overall Pick Zach LaVine averaged 23.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game during the 2024–25 season with the Chicago Bulls and Sacramento Kings, showcasing his scoring efficiency with a 51.1% field goal percentage. His athleticism and shooting ability could provide the 76ers with an explosive wing scorer to complement Embiid and Maxey. Advertisement LaVine's ability to create his own shot and stretch the defense would be a valuable asset for the 76ers' offense. However, his defensive shortcomings and substantial contract, $47.5 million in 2025–26 with a $48.9 million player option in 2026–27, pose financial and strategic considerations. Trading Paul George and the No. 3 pick for LaVine would be a significant move, and the 76ers would need to assess whether LaVine's contributions align with their championship aspirations. Considering how bad they were this season, adding a 20+ PPG scorer makes a ton of sense. 5. Lauri Markkanen Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen dribbles the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the third quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn ImagesCredit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Lauri Markkanen Utah Jazz Receive: Paul George, 2025 No. 3 Overall Pick Lauri Markkanen had a solid 2024–25 season with the Utah Jazz, averaging 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. His shooting percentages, however, saw a dip, with a field goal percentage of 42.3% and a three-point percentage of 34.6%. Advertisement Despite this, Markkanen's size and shooting ability make him a versatile forward capable of spacing the floor. In Philadelphia, Markkanen could serve as a complementary piece alongside Embiid and Maxey, providing additional scoring and floor spacing. His presence could alleviate some of the offensive burden on Embiid and create more driving lanes for Maxey. Markkanen fits with the Sixers' rotation defensively as well, because he is 7'0" and can occupy three positions on the floor. Related: 5 Trades To Reshape Philadelphia 76ers Into Eastern Conference Powerhouse
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Philadelphia 76ers Predicted To Select Supertalented Forward To Team Up With Joel Embiid And Tyrese Maxey
After a disappointing 24-58 season marred by injuries and inconsistency, the Philadelphia 76ers are looking to reset and reload. Despite boasting stars like Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and veteran Paul George, the Sixers crumbled in the regular season, finishing as one of the league's bottom dwellers. However, the NBA Draft Lottery offered a silver lining. Philadelphia landed the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and our expert widely predicts that they will use it to select Rutgers forward Ace Bailey. Advertisement Bailey, a 6'10" super-athletic forward, had a breakout season with the Scarlet Knights. He averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game, while shooting 46.0% from the field and 34.6% from three. His two-way impact and positional versatility make him an ideal fit for a Sixers team desperate for wing help. According to multiple draft insiders, Bailey is viewed as one of the most NBA-ready players in the 2025 class. His combination of size, agility, and defensive instincts allows him to guard multiple positions, while his emerging perimeter game gives him stretch potential as a modern forward. Offensively, he thrives in transition, can knock down mid-range shots, and has flashed the ability to hit threes off the catch. Defensively, he competes hard and has the tools to switch onto guards and bigs alike. For the 76ers, adding Bailey solves several pressing issues. First, they need youth, energy, and size on the wing. Second, with Paul George likely to be moved this offseason, Bailey becomes a seamless long-term replacement. George, though productive when healthy, struggled to stay on the court, and his age and contract are concerns for a franchise looking to retool around Embiid and Maxey. Advertisement The Sixers also desperately need someone who can help defensively on the perimeter, especially given how much Embiid is asked to anchor the paint. Bailey's high motor, defensive versatility, and rebounding ability mean he could contribute right away as a rookie. From a roster construction standpoint, Bailey also fits nicely between the Sixers' two cornerstone players. Tyrese Maxey is an explosive scorer but undersized defensively. Embiid remains one of the league's best two-way bigs but needs healthy and reliable help around him. Bailey gives the Sixers a much-needed balance, he doesn't need the ball to be effective, can defend multiple positions, and has offensive upside that can be nurtured over time. His youth also provides Philadelphia with a longer-term asset. Maxey is only 24. Embiid, despite health concerns, remains in his prime. With Bailey entering as a 19-year-old potential star, the Sixers could develop a new core trio that bridges their present with their future. Advertisement If all goes according to plan, the addition of Ace Bailey could represent a turning point for the franchise. After years of postseason flameouts and constant turnover, the Sixers may finally be positioning themselves for sustained success and Bailey might just be the missing piece they've been waiting for. Related: Lakers Predicted To Select 7'3", 227-Pound, 18-Year-Old Center In 2025 NBA Draft
