Latest news with #Sixer
USA Today
09-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Sixers' Jabari Walker reveals lessons from Blazers coach Chauncey Billups
CAMDEN, N.J. -- The Philadelphia 76ers brought in a solid big man in free agency in the form of Jabari Walker. The Sixers brought him in on a two-way deal which is insane value for a player who can step in and play right away. The No. 57 pick in the 2022 NBA draft, Walker spent three years with the Portland Trail Blazers averaging 6.2 points and 4.5 rebounds in 188 total games. He took a big step forward as a 3-point shooter in 2024-25 as he shot 38.9% from deep in an effort to expand his game. Per Cleaning the Glass, he shot 53% on corner 3s. He took a big leap forward in the 3-point shooting department and was able to take steps forward in the pick-and-roll/pick-and-pop game as well. Walker played for a rebuilding team in Portland, but he was coached by Chauncey Billups who had a ton of success during his playing career including winning finals MVP in 2004. Billups helped Walker take steps forward and the newest Sixer revealed the biggest lesson he took from his former coach. "Keep the main thing the main thing," Walker said. "I think what separates guys is knowing what they bring and being able to do that at a high level, and obviously, working on things to bring that at some point. I think I've learned my role and the things that I do at a high level here that'll always keep me on the floor. Then there's times like during the summer right now where I'm working on things that nobody knows I really have so that when the time comes, I can show that.' The biggest step forward Walker took under the tutelage of Billups and his staff was as a 3-point shooter. As mentioned, he shot a respectable percentage in 2024-25, but that was after he shot only 28.6% as a rookie and 29.5% in his second season in the league. He only attempted 1.2 triples per game in his final season in Portland, but the work he put in was important. "First off, it would be very important in a situation like this," Walker said of his 3-point shooting. "Just relieving pressure off the main guys. We have some great ball-handlers and creators and they attract a lot of attention so what's needed is that 3-point shot. I think putting a lot of time into it has helped me a lot." Obviously, it took some time, but that time with the Blazers allowed Walker to steps forward and grow into who he is currently as a player. "It took me a year or two just to get adjusted to the 3-point line," Walker explained. "I don't think my legs had enough to comprehend the game and then being efficient from the line so I took a summer just strictly shooting, changed some things about my form to make a little bit more fluid, and it's been effective. It showed that with the limited shots." The Sixers will hope that Walker's time with Billups will help him in this new situation in Philadelphia.
Associated Press
02-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Four Chairs, Big Demand: Golden Child Tattoo Hiring San Diego Tattoo Artists to Meet Expansion Surge
Expanded Escondido studio now hiring tattoo artists specializing in realism, micro-detail, and fine line work to meet booming demand. 'We're here as creative artists, so we should be enjoying what we're doing'— Brandon Castillo, Founder of Golden Child Tattoo & Piercing Shop ESCONDIDO, CA, UNITED STATES, July 2, 2025 / / -- Golden Child Tattoo & Piercing in Escondido, CA, has expanded into a second studio space and is actively hiring four tattoo artists to meet surging demand for black & gray realism, fine line, and other custom tattoo work. The move aligns with the studio's broader expansion—adding over 1,300 square feet to support a growing client base. Recognized among the best tattoo shops in San Diego, Golden Child offers generous artist splits, steady walk-in traffic, and robust marketing support including online ads, SEO spotlighting, and full scheduling autonomy in a drama-free shop culture. According to founder Brandon 'Sixer' Castillo, the studio's growth isn't just about space—it's about energy and culture. 'We're here as creative artists, so we should be enjoying what we're doing,' Sixer explained. 'It shouldn't be a task or work. The right client will find the right artist—and we make sure of that.' Demand for the best black and gray realism tattoo artists has grown dramatically in recent years, with more clients seeking intricate, meaningful portrait and realism work. 'Black and gray realism is in high demand. We're seeing more and more people asking for large-scale, detailed work,' said Sixer. 'It's a huge opportunity.' Golden Child's structure empowers artists to work autonomously while collaborating within a creative, respectful team. 'Each day brings new opportunities—if a piece isn't your style, another teammate likely thrives in it. That balance keeps our energy right,' Castillo said. Beyond the tattoo chair, Golden Child is deeply embedded in its community. The studio regularly hosts Wednesday Art Nights, participates in local toy drives and fundraisers, and offers no-cost memorial tattoos. 'We're involved with the community a lot. We do the Christmas stuff, we do other charities, we're always doing them,' Sixer said. 'We're always giving back—that's just who we are.' Golden Child blends high-grade materials like BVLA jewelry with a client-centered ethos. Founded over 20 years ago and previously known as The Ink Spot, the studio has evolved into a cultural touchpoint that prioritizes inclusivity, quality, and transformation. 'Tattooing has the power to be transformative—not just visually, but emotionally,' Sixer said. 'We look for artists who care deeply about their craft and their clients.' Golden Child currently has four open chairs and invites black and gray realism, micro-realism, and fine line artists—and anyone dedicated to greatness in their tattoo artistry—to explore current tattoo artist hiring opportunities. Interested artists can learn more and apply through the studio's hiring page. Founded in 2007, and now operating in two connected spaces, the studio continues to grow its artist roster and regional reputation in San Diego and beyond. With in-house specialties across American Traditional, Japanese, Chicano, geometric, and fine line styles, the studio combines the highest artistic standards with a welcoming, inclusive space. Learn more at Media Contact Brandon Castillo Owner, Golden Child Tattoo & Piercing Shop +1 (760) 555-0193 info (at) goldenchildtattoo (dot) com Website: Facebook: Instagram: Brandon Castillo Golden Child Tattoo & Piercing Shop +1 760-330-8591 email us here Visit us on social media: Instagram Facebook Other Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Lakers And Warriors Could Emerge As Potential Destinations For Defensive Specialist
As NBA free agency approaches, two of the league's most storied franchises, the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors are reportedly circling one of the league's most underrated defensive specialists: De'Anthony Melton. Both teams are expected to undergo significant roster reshaping this offseason, and Melton's name has quietly emerged as a low-cost, high-upside option. Advertisement According to The Athletic's Anthony Slater, the Warriors have identified Melton as a potential target. Meanwhile, Lakers insider Jovan Buha has echoed similar interest from the purple and gold, suggesting both franchises are weighing the former Sixer as a possible backcourt addition. Melton, just 26, fits the mold of a buy-low candidate with proven two-way value. His 2024-25 season was marred by a torn ACL after playing just six games, during which he averaged 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.2 steals on efficient shooting splits 40.7% from the field and a strong 37.1% from three. Following his injury, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets but didn't log a single minute with them. Though durability concerns linger, Melton's track record before his injury paints a clearer picture. He was a vital piece on the Memphis Grizzlies during their rise and later flourished with the Philadelphia 76ers, carving out a niche as a perimeter pest who could guard both guard spots, knock down open threes, and contribute as a secondary playmaker. Advertisement His defensive versatility is his calling card. Melton routinely guarded the opposing team's best perimeter threat, and his quick hands and off-ball awareness made him a disruptive force. For teams like the Lakers and Warriors, both of whom struggled on the defensive end against quicker guards in the 2025 playoffs, adding a player like Melton is as much about fixing a structural weakness as it is about rounding out their rotations. Financially, Melton earned over $12 million last season but is expected to command a far smaller deal this time around due to his injury and lack of availability. League insiders suggest he may sign a short-term 'prove-it' deal one or two years in length, in hopes of rebuilding his market value before hitting free agency again in his late 20s. That could be ideal for contenders like the Lakers and Warriors. Both teams are capped out, but either could squeeze Melton into their plans using part of their mid-level exception or a veteran minimum deal with incentives. Advertisement For Golden State, he'd fit nicely alongside Stephen Curry and potentially replace some of the defensive energy lost in recent years. For the Lakers, Melton could slide into a crucial bench role or even start alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James, giving JJ Redick a much-needed perimeter stopper. With the market for elite defense at a premium, De'Anthony Melton could be one of the smartest signings of the summer. If he returns to form, both the Lakers and Warriors may look back on this as a quiet move that paid championship-level dividends. Related: NBA Rumors: 4 Veterans The Lakers Could Acquire This Offseason
USA Today
30-04-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Former Sixers forward Tobias Harris helps Pistons beat Knicks in Game 5
Former Sixers forward Tobias Harris helps Pistons beat Knicks in Game 5 With the Philadelphia 76ers missing the playoffs for the first time since 2017, now is the time to check in on former Sixers who are making their mark on the postseason landscape in the NBA. Former Sixers forward Tobias Harris has been a big part of the turnaround with the Detroit Pistons and he produced again in Game 5 on Tuesday. With the Pistons facing elimination, Harris had 17 points, eight rebounds, and four blocks as Detroit escaped with a 106-103 win over the New York Knicks on the road. The Pistons will live for another day. While Harris had a big game for the Pistons, it was Cade Cunningham who led Detroit with 24 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists and Ausar Thompson had 22 points and seven rebounds. Another former Sixer, Paul Reed, had four steals off the bench. This series shifts back to Little Caesars Arena for Game 6 on Thursday where Harris will look to help the Pistons force Game 7 back in New York.
Miami Herald
06-04-2025
- Sport
- Miami Herald
In push for playoff positioning, Heat host injury-riddled 76ers
Two Eastern Conference counterparts, the Philadelphia 76ers and host Miami Heat, meet on Monday following tough losses for both teams. The Heat (35-43) dropped a 121-115 overtime decision at home on Saturday to Milwaukee in a game with postseason implications. Miami is locked into the play-in round, with only positioning between the East's seven through 10 seeds left to determine. The 10th-place Heat are three games behind the No. 7 Orlando Magic, who have the most favorable play-in spot ahead of the regular season's closing stretch. Atlanta is 1 1/2 games up on Miami for eighth place, with the Hawks in action on Sunday vs. Utah. In ninth, Chicago holds a one-game lead over the Heat following Sunday's win over the Charlotte Hornets. Miami's consecutive losses to Memphis and Milwaukee -- two opponents who have clinched playoff spots -- come on the heels of a six-game winning streak. "Bro, we've been on a 10-game losing streak," Bam Adebayo said of Miami's back-to-back defeats. "Two is not that bad. We all hate losing. Monday, everybody will come in with the same mentality, try to get a win." Philadelphia (23-55), long ago eliminated from postseason contention, takes a season-worst 11-game losing streak into Monday's contest. The 76ers dropped a 114-109 nailbiter to Minnesota at home on Saturday to continue their slide. Quentin Grimes hit four 3-pointers in the final 3:26, helping the Sixers pull within one possession of the Timberwolves twice down the stretch, but Philadelphia had no answer for Anthony Edwards. With his 28 points in the loss, Grimes has scored at least 22 points in 12 of 13 appearances dating back to March 9. The one exception came in Philadelphia's last meeting with Miami, a 118-95 Heat win in Philadelphia. Miami held Grimes to 15 points on 6-of-14 shooting from the floor. Tyler Herro paced the Heat in that matchup with 30 points and 5-of-9 3-point shooting. Miami's leading scorer this season (23.9 points per game), Herro missed Saturday's contest with a thigh injury amid a streak of 20-plus points in his previous seven outings. "We have a very deep team and everybody can step up when they need to," said Miami's Alec Burks, who scored 24 points on Saturday. "Just stay ready. Be a professional, stay ready. I learned it over my career. "You never know what's going to happen game to game." Roster flux has been the story for Philadelphia throughout the 2024-25 season, with stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George all currently sidelined for the remainder of an injury-plagued campaign. The holes in the Sixers' lineup have created opportunities for other players to step up. Grimes has been one such Sixer, and Guerschon Yabusele has been another in recent weeks. "What he's doing now" would be a strong end to the season, Sixers coach Nick Nurse said of Yabusele. "He's playing hard. He's got the right kind of attitude." The journeyman forward has scored 19, 22 and 21 points in three of Philadelphia's last four contests. After spending the previous four seasons with Spanish club Real Madrid, Yabusele returned to the NBA this year with the Sixers and has averaged 11 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in 70 games played. --Field Level Media Field Level Media 2023 - All Rights Reserved
