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stories written by: Alyssa MErritt

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A Quest for Dominance: LeBron James vs. Steph Curry in Lakers-Warriors series

By: Alyssa Merritt

May 1, 2023, 10:00AM CT

As the first round of playoffs came to an end, the air buzzed with anticipation, as an exciting showdown loomed on the horizon. In one corner, the Golden State Warriors, led by their indomitable sharpshooter, Stephen Curry. In the other, the Los Angeles Lakers, powered by the unstoppable force that is LeBron James. The stakes? Nothing less than the ultimate prize - the 2023 NBA Championship.

This series will be more than just a battle between two superstars; it's a collision of legacies, eras, and talents. It's a moment where we'll witness history in the making, as two of the greatest players of all time strive to elevate their teams to another NBA championship.

Curry, the two-time MVP, with four NBA Championships, has shattered multiple NBA records, earning his spot as one of the greatest players in NBA history. With an arsenal of ankle-breaking handles, jaw-dropping shots, and gravity-defying passes, Curry has etched his name in the records of NBA history. Now, he's back and on a mission to lead the Warriors to another NBA Championship. In a recent interview, Curry expressed his excitement for the upcoming series.

"It is special to know from the first series we played him in Cleveland in the '14-'15 season to now, we're blessed to be playing at this level still and excited about a new chapter. Two teams trying to keep your season alive and chase a championship. That's what it's all about," Curry said, via NBC Sports.

James, the King of the hardwood, has been nothing short of extraordinary throughout his 20-year career. With four NBA Championships, four MVPs, and nineteen All-Star appearances under his belt, he has cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats. The King, a living legend of the sport, is on a quest to add yet another jewel to his already overflowing crown of achievements. In response to the upcoming battle against the Warriors, James said the mental test against Golden State is unlike almost anything else he’s faced.

“You’ve gotta be super-duper locked in,” James said. “You can’t make a mistake. You just can’t. You can’t make a mistake or they’ll make you pay. It’s literally that simple. Some teams that I’ve played in my career that’s had that notion on you and they’re one of them. They’re right there at the top along with some of those great San Antonio Spurs teams where you just — if you make a mistake, they make you pay,” via The Los Angeles Times.

As the two teams prepare for battle, fans and analysts are predicting a closely contested series, with the potential for history-making performances. Will Curry's sharp-shooting prowess and unmatched range be enough to overcome the all-around dominance of James and his Lakers? Or will King James add another jewel to his crown, solidifying his status as one of the NBA's most dominant forces?

Warriors forward Draymond Green weighed in on the matchup, saying, "This series against the Lakers is going to be epic. You've got Steph, you've got LeBron doing it all over again,” via NBC Sports.

The stage is set, the lights are bright, and the anticipation is at an all-time high. Records will be challenged, rivalries intensified, and legacies defined as Curry and James lead their respective teams into the 2023 NBA playoffs. One thing is certain: the NBA has never seen a playoff series quite like this, and it's a showdown that will be remembered for generations to come.

ESPN Under Fire: Kendrick Perkins Claims NBA MVP Voting System is Biased Towards White Players, Network Issues Apology

By: Alyssa Merritt

March 9, 2023, 8:00PM CT

ESPN, the sports network that prides itself on delivering the most insightful and intelligent commentary on the biggest sports events, found itself embroiled in a race row after Kendrick Perkins made comments that appeared to question the diversity of NBA MVP voters.

Perkins, a former NBA player turned commentator, made the controversial remarks during a recent episode of ESPN’s "First Take," sparking widespread criticism and debate on social media.

Perkins took issue with the fact that Jokić is up for the award despite not ranking in the top 10 in scoring for the 22-23 NBA season. Perkins pointed out that only two other men have won the award without finishing in the top 10 for scoring: Former Dallas Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki and former Phoenix Suns star Steve Nash.

“What do those guys have in common? I’ll let it sit there and marinate. You think about it,” Perkins said. “When it comes down to moving the goalposts for certain individuals to win it, again, is it Oochie Wally? Or is it One Mic? What song are we actually dancing to right now? Why is this subject not brought up?”

Perkins then took to Twitter, tweeting:

“Last year I was a c**n. This year I’m a racist. Well damn, which one is it? IT’S NEITHER. I call out facts and not afraid to address the elephant in the room. 🤷🏾‍♂️”

The comments were met with a flurry of responses from fans and critics alike, with many accusing Perkins of perpetuating negative stereotypes and implying that white voters are biased against black players.

In a recent phone interview, Oklahoma native and lifelong Oklahoma City Thunders fan, Terrance Holiday, said he was “disappointed” to hear Perkins’ recent comments. “I was disappointed. You don’t expect your favorite player [Perkins] to discredit other great players [Nowitzki, Nash, Jokić] on the basis of their race. As an African American myself, it was sad to see.”

ESPN quickly responded to the backlash and issued a public apology for Perkins’ comments, stating that the comment was incorrect.

Studio host Molly Qerim addressed Perkins’ comments on Wednesday’s “First Take” episode:

“I want to correct something here from yesterday’s show,” Qerim started off. “When Kendrick Perkins said 80 percent of NBA voters for the MVP award are white, the NBA publicly announces the voters each year, and after review, it is clear the panel is much more diverse than what was portrayed by Kendrick Perkins and we wanted to make sure we corrected that today.”

As the NBA MVP race heats up, it's clear that the issue of race and diversity in sports is still a divisive issue. ESPN's swift response to Perkins' comments is a positive step forward in addressing these issues and ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. But it is also a reminder that there is still much work to be done to achieve true equality in the world of sports.

ESPN / First Take

Gary A. Vasquez / USA Today Sports

Kate Frese / NBAE via Getty Images

Dallas Wings Soar Higher with Blockbuster Four-Team Trade, Acquiring Diamond DeShields

By: Alyssa Merritt

March 3, 2023, 11:00AM CT

In a stunning, multi-team deal that has left the WNBA buzzing, the Dallas Wings have secured 2022 WNBA Champion and All-Star, Diamond DeShields, in a four-team trade involving the Chicago Sky, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty. The Wings also acquired multiple first-round draft selections, further solidifying their status as a formidable force in the league.

DeShields, a highly-adaptable guard-forward and third overall pick in the 2018 WNBA draft, has been a standout player during her tenure with the Phoenix Mercury, where she averaged an impressive 14 points and four rebounds per game last season. The surprise trade sees the Mercury parting ways with DeShields in exchange for a package of future draft picks.

The acquisition of DeShields is a game-changer for the Dallas Wings, who have been on the hunt for an additional high-scoring powerhouse to elevate their already fearsome offense. With the arrival of DeShields, the Wings now boast an even more dynamic and lethal offense, as she joins the likes of Arike Ogunbowale and Natasha Howard on the court.

Dallas Wings President and CEO, Greg Bibb, spoke with WFAA and expressed his excitement about the addition of DeShields to the team, stating, "Diamond DeShields has established herself as one of the premier wing players in the WNBA. Her size, athleticism, ability to get to the rim, and defensive acumen will make us a better basketball team."

DeShields, equally eager to join her new teammates in Dallas, shared with WFAA, "I'm going to come out here and do everything I can as I got this 'Dallas' across my chest. I've got a lot of respect for the team and the organization, and I can't wait to get to work with my new teammates."

As anticipation for the 2023 WNBA season mounts, all eyes are on the Wings and their newest star, Diamond DeShields. With a talent-loaded roster and sky-high expectations, the Wings hope that DeShields' arrival will be the catalyst they need to chase down a championship title.

Shockwaves in Dallas: Kellen Moore Departs as Cowboys Seek New Direction

By: Alyssa Merritt

March 3, 2023, 11:00AM CT

In a move that sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys have parted ways with offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Following a closed-door meeting with the team's front office, head coach Mike McCarthy made the tough call to let Moore go, leaving players and fans reeling from the sudden change.

Moore's tenure with the Cowboys spanned three seasons, initially as the quarterbacks coach before his promotion to offensive coordinator in 2019. During his time in the Lone Star State, he played an instrumental role in transforming Dak Prescott into a premier NFL quarterback and crafting an offensive juggernaut.

However, the team's inability to progress past the first round of the playoffs in recent seasons cast a shadow over Moore's successes. In search of fresh perspectives and renewed momentum, McCarthy believed it was time for a change.

"The number one thing is, we all can benefit from is a new voice, " McCarthy said during a recent press conference. "We're going to build on the foundation that [Moore] has established."

McCarthy provided further insight into the decision, citing differences in offensive philosophy.

"Kellen wants to light the scoreboard up, but I want him to run the damn ball so I can rest my defense," McCarthy told The Dallas Morning News.

The Cowboys' 2022 season saw them rank 22nd in time of possession at 29:27 and 18th in yards per carry (4.3). McCarthy aims to improve these stats by focusing on reducing turnovers and extending possession time.

Despite the upheaval in the coaching staff, the Cowboys remain laser-focused on their ultimate goal: a championship run. Boasting a talented roster and a wealth of offensive firepower, the team is confident that they can make a deep playoff push this season - even without Moore at the helm.

Tim Heitman / USA TODAY Sports

Tom Fox / The Dallas Morning News

Mavericks' Dynamic Duo Shatters Franchise Record in Electrifying Win Over 76ers

By: Alyssa Merritt

March 3, 2023, 11:00AM CT

In a thrilling and exhilarating matchup at the American Airlines Center, the Dallas Mavericks secured a 133-126 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Eager to break their two-game losing streak, the Mavericks relied on their dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, who combined for a franchise record of 82 points. The 76ers, on the other hand, aimed to extend their one-game winning streak, but ultimately fell short.

The game kicked off with both teams exchanging baskets at a rapid pace. The Mavericks were propelled by the dominant performances of their star players, Doncic and Irving. Doncic started strong, dominating the first half with 25 points, while Irving's exceptional ball-handling and shot-making added another 20 points.

As the second half commenced, the Mavericks showed no signs of slowing down. Doncic and Irving continued their offensive onslaught, leaving the 76ers struggling to find answers. Despite a commendable 15-0 run by the 76ers early in the fourth quarter, they were ultimately unable to contain the Mavericks' offensive firepower.

At the end of the night, the Mavericks secured the win, with Doncic amassing an outstanding 42 points, 12 assists, and four rebounds. Irving contributed an equally impressive 40 points and six assists. Together, they set a new franchise record by scoring a staggering 82 points.

The victory marked the end of the Mavericks' losing streak, as they celebrated a well-deserved win. With this hard-earned win under their belt, the Mavericks look to build momentum as they continue their quest for success in the NBA.

Angel Reese: LSU's Towering Force Aims for Championship and SEC Player of the Year

By: Alyssa Merritt

March 3, 2023, 11:00AM CT

The LSU women's basketball team has found a gem in Angel Reese, a 6-foot-3 forward hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, who has been captivating fans and experts alike with her stellar performance this season. The No. 5-ranked LSU Tigers have been reaping the rewards of Reese's dominance, as she's helped catapult the team to an impressive 27-1 record, averaging 23.7 points, 16 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.

Despite her undeniable prowess, Reese is facing stiff competition in her quest to be named the 2023 SEC Player of the Year. Among her rivals is South Carolina's Aliyah Boston, who has consistently shown her dominance on the court throughout the season. However, Reese's unwavering determination and "dog mentality" set her apart from the pack. Speaking with The New York Times, Reese shared, "I feel like what separates me from a lot of players is that I have that dog mentality, and I always want to go out there and win. I'm very passionate about that."

Reese's relentless drive and passion have already earned her a slew of accolades this season, including seven SEC Player of the Week awards and a nomination for the prestigious Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, an honor bestowed upon the best defensive player in the sport.

However, for Reese, the ultimate goal transcends individual recognition. She is primarily focused on guiding LSU to a championship victory.

"Individual awards are great, but I'm really focused on helping my team win. We have a lot of talented players on this team, and I believe we have what it takes to win it all," Reese told The New York Times.

With Reese spearheading the charge, LSU is well-positioned for a deep run in the SEC tournament and potentially the NCAA tournament. If she maintains her remarkable level of play, the title of SEC Player of the Year may very well be within her grasp, a fitting accolade for one of the most dominant forces in the game.

Darron Cummings / AP