5 Exciting Things About The Melbourne Cup 2022

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Australia’s most celebrated horse racing event, the Melbourne Cup, will crown the best galloper a few days from now. Besides the coaches, trainers and runners, racing fans, establishments, and other stakeholders are preparing for a few days of unforgettable celebrations.    

With an AUD$8 million prize pot, Melbourne Cup is Australia’s wealthiest handicap race. According to Victoria Racing Club’s track records and attendees, hundreds of thousands of spectators converge at the Flemington Racecourse annually for several days of fanfare. Others can watch the action live via sports television channels or online streaming platforms.   

Below are a few primary reasons why the event deserves the title, the race that stops the nation. 

  • The spectacular races 

Several races are included in the Spring Racing Carnival held from September to November. The famed Flemington Racecourse hosts four prominent competitions, including the Melbourne Cup race. Besides the big event on 01 November, fans are also treated to other turf competitions and celebrations, namely, Victoria Derby Day, Oaks Day, and Champions Stakes Day.   

  • Victoria Derby Day (29 October): The Flemington Racecourse hosts four races that make up the Carnival, which opens on the last Saturday of October this year. This 2,500-meter race is a competition for three-year-olds with an AUD$2 million prize pot. As the perfect pre-opening ceremony for the Cup, the twenty-four runners that make up the Melbourne Cup final field will be announced hours after Derby Day. 
  • Melbourne Cup Day (01 November): The Carnival’s main attraction and Australia’s second wealthiest race happens every first Tuesday of November. Thoroughbreds will battle it to win the AUD$4.4 million and 18-carat gold trophy. 
  • Victoria Racing Club Oaks Day (03 November): Three-year-old fillies compete on a 2,500-metre course for this Group 1 race. Prizemoney is more than AUD$1 million, attracting spectators and punters alike. This event, also called Kennedy Oaks or Crown Oaks Day, also features a day of music and fashion this year.  
  • Stakes Day (05 November): Closing the Spring Racing Carnival are two exciting Group 1 races in Australia’s premiere racecourse: the VRC Champions Stakes and the VRC Sprint Classic. Each of these sprint competitions carries an AUD$2 million prize purse.

It’s best to keep track of the important dates to make sure you don’t miss out on the exciting events.

  • The betting frenzy

Betting is a national pastime in Australia. The country’s gambling sector, which includes horse race wagering, netted at least AUD$225 billion in gambling revenues in 2019.  

Proceeds from the Melbourne Cup likely contribute a significant portion, considering that the Cup is the biggest one-day betting event in the country. Individuals spend an average of AUD$179 for the race, AUD$91 for entertainment, and AUD$88 for punting.   

Try your luck on lower-stake games first to increase your chances of picking the right horse. At the same time, access replay videos and other valuable information thru  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSqgmNBQDpoUIZPNB6CkUHg and similar channels. 

Keep updated with the race developments and, most importantly, the ever-changing order of entry before the final field is announced. For instance, as of 27 October, Caulfield Cup 2022 winner and race frontrunner Durston has withdrawn from the race for medical reasons.  

  • The unforgettable celebrations 

The Carnival is Australia’s prestigious horse racing event. And it’s only fitting that Melbourne Cup Day is a holiday in the city. On race days, crowds gather at Flemington to witness the race and participate in the celebrations. The live audience can also bet on their favorite runner, so heed the tips above and read a useful betting guide for beginners.

Marquees will dot the grounds where ticketholders are treated to sumptuous food and overflowing cocktail. Attendees will also be treated to live entertainment featuring local bands and musicians.   

Besides the Melbourne Cup Day happening on 01 November at 3 PM, punters and non-punters look forward to participating in several other events, in and out of the racecourse. Even residents outside of Melbourne join in the fanfare and celebrate in their homes, offices, or town centers. For instance, multiple venues across Australia’s capital, Canberra City, are preparing for the Cup Day celebrations in style.  

  • The opulent fashion 

Fashion is also a significant element in the Melbourne Cup celebrations. Racegoers are expected to dress their best according to the day’s theme. Cocktail dresses and fancy hats are a must for women, while men must look dapper in tailored suits for a shot to win prizes reserved for the best-dressed list. 

Derby Day is a black-and-white affair, while the Melbourne Cup focuses on colorful and bold patterns. Oaks Day, also known as ladies’ day, is about floral designs and pastel hues. Blue cornflower, yellow, and pink rose typically adorn these clothing ensembles.   

  • The star power 

Elsa Pataky, Chris Hemsworth’s wife, will appear on this year’s Derby Day stage. Athletes, Hollywood stars, and royal members have graced the Spring Racing Carnival for years.

Usain Bolt showed up twice, in 2017 and 2019, claiming that the Melbourne Cup is one of his favorite events. Lindsay Lohan and Lady Kitty Spencer also appeared in the same year. Derby Day and Oaks Day also hosted celebrities Sarah Jessica Parker, Liz Hurley, and Eva Longoria, to name a few. 

Even the late Queen Elizabeth II, a known horse lover, took a shot at winning the Melbourne Cup. In 1997, Her Majesty fielded Arabian Story and finished sixth place. 

Final thoughts 

The Melbourne Cup race may be the highlight of the Spring Racing Carnival, but there are other reasons to join in on the fun. Every year, organizers try their hardest to uniquely showcase Australia’s culture more than just celebrating the country’s best thoroughbreds. And with activities that appeal to everyone, participating in these festivities is an experience you don’t want to miss.  

Five Takeaways from the Heat Escaping Charlotte

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The Heat walked into this game against the Hornets really needing one, and it appeared that they’d be getting it.

Except we saw a repeat of the last few games again: falling apart late.

A 13 point lead beginning the fourth went to a Hornets lead to Jimmy Butler dominance to eventual overtime.

They escaped late to come out with the win, so here are my takeaways from this one…

#1: Duncan Robinson with a strong offensive first half.

Duncan Robinson was the leading scorer for the Heat at half, and easily their most intriguing player from that initial 24 minute stint. He had 11 points, and 1 three. Yes I know, that makes you think. With Tyler Herro being ruled out in this game, Max Strus stepped back into the starting lineup meaning one thing: more intentional reps for Robinson in the second unit. Flying off hand-offs and pin-downs is all cool, but turning those into pick and roll reps is what led him to that scoring mark. Blending into 2-on-1’s with Bam Adebayo inside the lane has been a fun development, especially since his in-between game has looked good. He works heavily on that floater, and we’ve seen it come into fruition a bit recently. When he can not only be that offensive punch off the bench, but also the offensive hub, it’s a good sign for the offense.

#2: More inverted pick and rolls.

There are a couple actions that I feel like I discuss more often than others: one being the post splits they run and well, the second being inverted pick and rolls. For starters, it’s the simplest way to try and get Bam Adebayo downhill. Instead of asking for straight isolations, it builds up some momentum for him down either slot as an attacker. But the other element of this involves Jimmy Butler. It isn’t to get him moving downhill like mentioned with Bam. It’s about creating advantages through mismatches when the guard screens. As we saw in the second quarter tonight, Lowry came to screen for Butler, who bursted to the middle of the floor as the defender cut him off. The point to make: he cut him off under the free throw line. Win for Jimmy. He then put him in a footwork blender leading to an and-1 at the rim. With an offense that has felt bland at time early in the year, more of this continues to create advantages for their main guys.

#3: Yes I’m going to do it again: some more thoughts on the 2-3 zone.

Something I harp on a ton when discussing the Heat’s 2-3 zone as of late: shifting the shot profile from the opposing team. It’s one thing for the Damian Lillard’s of the world getting to adjust their shot diet in a game, but when facing a team like Charlotte who routinely has one offensive base, it can really create chaos. Getting back to the basics, the way to beat the 2-3 zone is getting to the middle of the floor one way or another. Off the bounce, entry to the free throw line, etc. But even though the Hornets were executing that early in the game, betting on push shots inside the free throw line to fall consistently is an uneven bet. That’s what makes the zone so effective. My only problem is that we’re seeing them rely on it so heavily this early in the year, meaning teams will be ready for it in no time. But for now, it’s cool to watch.

#4: Jimmy Butler reliance tonight.

Heading into this game without a lot of hype around it, with the Hornets being the third worst offense simultaneously being without LaMelo Ball, Gordon Hayward, and Cody Martin, it was still clear the Miami Heat needed to get this one. And well, Jimmy Butler seemed to want this one. He came out defensively in a way where you know he’s locked in, but as I stated earlier, he was just putting on a footwork display inside the arc. His attacking was evident as he got to the line 12 times through the first 3 quarters, while acquiring 8 boards and 7 assists in the same span. When talking about energy, I do believe Jimmy Butler being locked in means others will follow closely. You don’t necessarily want him hitting the deck time and time again to get to the line against a bad team in Charlotte, but well, Miami needed him doing just that in a close game in the 4th. Isolation, low post, spin moves, buckets. We saw it all in this one. Should we have seen it all in this one though? Probably not.

#5: The continuation of late slippage.

As the Heat walked into the fourth quarter with a 13 point lead, it was certain they couldn’t do it again…to this Hornets team. With Butler playing the entire third, they can close it out early to give some of these guys rest. But well, the inevitable happened again. A 13 point lead turned into a 3 point lead in two and a half minutes. When trying to be in that elite tier of NBA teams, there just can’t be this seesaw of play and leads. Both sides of the floor once again turned off, as the Hornets began to turn up. When Butler is asked to re-enter into the game with 8 minutes left in the fourth in a game like this, there’s a problem. A big problem. Luckily he began bailing them out late in this game as I mentioned previously, getting them across the regulation finish line and into overtime. Miami somehow survived overtime with things going their way. It’s good they got the win, but far from a good win. This wasn’t a positive thing to see.

A look at how the US is finally influencing soccer in England

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As American sports fans, we have always been able to boast about having the world’s best players when it comes to football, baseball, and basketball. When it comes to soccer though, we’ve historically, had to be bystanders during conversations about the beautiful game. At least, the national team hasn’t left enough of a mark on the international stage for us to speak with any conviction about soccer. However, the days of quietly nodding along in the corner now seem to be numbered when you consider that there is an American soccer revolution currently taking place around the world courtesy of the personnel in the Premier League club Leeds United. 

Tellingly, this current Leeds side is heavily influenced by three Americans who are successfully leaving their mark on the globe’s toughest league and in doing so, proving to the world that the US can influence soccer at the highest level. They are, of course, Brenden Aaronson, Tyler Adams, and coach Jesse Marsch. Crucially, both Aaronson and Adams are regular starters for the US men’s national team. In particular, Adams is the captain of the US team.

Undoubtedly, their on-field success is the driving reason behind why fans are beginning to take soccer in the US seriously as Leeds continues to pull off remarkable results with the help of their American stars as they did when they beat Chelsea and then Liverpool in late October, as covered by ESPN. 

Marsch carries the hopes of a generation 

Another reason for this growing wave of international respect is Wisconsin-born Marsch, who is the current manager in the hot seat at Elland Road. Now, it’s been well-documented that this is the single most crucial job that any American has had in the world’s most demanding soccer league. Marsch is striving to become the first manager born in the US to be considered a success in the Premier League. 

Predictably, we’ve had to witness a ceaseless inquest from the media in England who go out of their way to try to prove that the 49-year-old is out of his depth, with the influence of this being seen in the views on this BBC article. Unsurprisingly, is a narrative that does not go down well here in the States. Interestingly, this is why American fans have thrown their weight behind Leeds as the country’s reputation, as far as coaching soccer goes, is on the line. In other words, if Marsch is a success then doors will open to other prospective managers here in the US who have ambitions about coaching in England. 

 

As touched on, this is why more and more Americans have adopted Leeds as their team and as things stand, it’s also worth keeping in mind that many supporter groups have popped up over the last few months, such is the resolve to see the US finally breakthrough at the summit of the sport.

A nation united 

Perhaps most telling of all, however, was the recent forming of a supporters group in Ohio given that locals have never really given soccer in England a second glance until now. One of the reasons why this historical indifference could have now come to an end is that a big drawcard these days when it comes to sports in America that haven’t always been traditionally popular is betting, which is increasing in popularity after sweeping reform has spread across the country. 

With this in mind, it’s easier to see why Ohioans are now taking to soccer and following Leeds given that as of the 1st of January, locals will be able to use sports betting apps to bet on the Premier League which will undoubtedly stir up more interest in the important goings-on across the pond. To mark this historic occasion and the start of a new era, fans in the Buckeye State can access this BetMGM bonus code Ohio, which includes a $200 no-deposit free bet. In addition to that, this can be used on Premier League outright markets such as Leeds finishing in the top half. As soccer’s popularity continues to grow in the country, expect to see the range of markets grow for the Premier League and other top European leagues.

Only time will tell whether Leeds is able to achieve this or not but the one certainty is that they will have millions of fans in the US roaring them on.

Yes, this club which lies over 3000 miles from the east of the US is now a regular fixture in the lives of Americans who sense that a long overdue breakthrough is about to be made.

Top Reasons behind the Popularity of Cricket Betting

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Why Is Cricket Betting Attracting More People?

 

Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world. It is fun and exciting and draws millions of fans during international matches and tournaments. 

 

Today, people from different countries love to bet on cricket. Its popularity is growing by leaps and bounds with each passing day. Additionally, top cricket betting sites record massive footfalls during test and ODI series. 

 

What makes cricket such a popular option to bet on? Let’s find out!

 

100+ Countries Play Cricket

 

The ICC has 108 member countries. Most of them are eligible to play tests and one-day matches. Several teams like England, Australia, India, South Africa, and Pakistan have made their mark in the international rankings. 

 

Additionally, many upcoming countries are joining the list. You can see new teams like Ireland, Afghanistan, and Tanzania featured in the list of top players. 

 

All these teams have millions of fans and followers worldwide. Many among them love to wager on the game to try their luck. As a result, the activity is gaining more traction as the days go by.

 

Several Betting Options

 

Cricket allows you to place your bets on different options. You may wager on:

 

  • Outcomes of the matches
  • Man of the match
  • Best bowler
  • Highest player scores

 

Additionally, you may try to guess the number of sixes or fours the players may hit during a game. It is also possible to wager on when the first wicket will fall and who will score the first four. 

 

Your choices are countless, and you can always find something to suit your preferences.

 

Top Tournaments

 

Cricket is perhaps the only sport with so many matches and tournaments happening all year. You can always find something to try your luck on, whether it’s January or December. Moreover, you can wager on top tournaments that draw international teams. The list includes the ICC World Cup, Indian Premier League, T20 World Cup, and more. 

 

Additionally, you may find games happening in your local region. There may even be simultaneous matches in different places at the same time. Therefore, it pampers you with choices, and you never need to feel bored.

 

Quick and Awesome Earnings

 

A single ODI tournament can have a payout of millions of dollars. Think of what you may be able to win when you bet on international tournaments like the World Cup. Cricket betting gives you an opportunity to earn a quick payout. You can receive thousands of dollars by correctly guessing the outcome of a single match. 

 

Best of all, you may become a millionaire in a quick time wagering on different games. No other sport gives you such a chance to earn handsomely.

 

Simple Rules

 

Cricket is a simple game. The rules are easy, and the game is not difficult to follow. You can learn to enjoy the matches in no time and even give your expert opinions. As a result, anyone can learn to wager on the sport in a short time. You don’t have to worry about complex rules or learning complicated strategies. 

So, it is an excellent option for casual gamblers. Additionally, people who want to take it seriously can develop their skills and experience fast. They can also learn from experts who present their odds.

 

 

The Rise of Online Sportsbooks

 

Today, you don’t need to look around for people to place your bets. You can get online and research the best sportsbook to wager your funds. 

 

Most importantly, many sportsbooks are available globally and have very few restrictions. For example, you can access sports betting in India through offshore websites. Gambling is illegal in the country, but it has no restrictions on online betting. 

 

So, the sport can be a good choice for gamblers who live in areas where gambling is not legal.

Moreover, most people use a mobile phone today. It helps them access several services using a mobile browser and apps. Even sports betting are available on Android and iOS apps. They let you wager on several sports, including cricket. 

 

Great Offers

 

Most sportsbooks offer attractive bonuses and rewards for new gamblers. They can get a matching percentage when they put funds into their accounts. As a result, people can bet using funds earned as rewards. They may need to spend less from their own pockets. It is another advantage of choosing a popular sport to try your luck.

 

Final Thoughts

Cricket betting is growing more popular as it is a very popular sport. Several countries host teams that have countless fans and followers. It is also getting famous for wide wagering options and best returns.

Five Takeaways from Heat’s Loss to Blazers

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The Miami Heat played the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night, and they played well for a major portion.

But well, that doesn’t seem to matter.

Late in the game, they fell apart on offense, while going away from the zone defensively.

They let this one slip away. Anyway, here are some of the takeaways…(some leaning into the early stages)

#1: A pull-up 3 point display against Portland’s drop.

The Miami Heat were 10 of 22 from three in the first half tonight, but that on the surface just doesn’t tell the full story. Kyle Lowry, Gabe Vincent, and Duncan Robinson all had 3 a piece, but with the exception of Robinson, almost all of these shots were pull-ups. High pick and roll, dropping Jusuf Nurkic, that’s usually a formula for Tyler Herro to dissect. Yet tonight, Lowry and Vincent picked up in that department, both taking them in transition and the half-court. Miami shooting this well from three-point land is always a good sign of offense and ball movement, which was the case early in this one, but I mainly direct the credit to a nod in the schematic department, as these guys knew coming in: that shot will be sitting there for me.

#2: The 2-3 zone just keeps on pushing forward.

I feel like I land on this topic many nights, and maybe it’s nothing new since it’s becoming one of their base coverages, but I just can’t skip over what we’re seeing there. After most buckets in the second quarter, I was on Erik Spoelstra rotator cuff since he’d abruptly throw up the number 2’s in the air at the unit on the floor, meaning he wanted them to settle into that 2-3 press. The thing about that zone in this match-up is it messes up Portland’s usual gameplan. They’re 29th in 3 point attempts this year, which is essentially what that zone tends to give up. And the threes they’re used to are high PnR pull-ups from both Lillard and Simons. That zone mucked things up for a while there, and guys like Strus and Robinson deserve a ton of credit. We know what Martin and Vincent are doing at the top, but those bottom box guys being in correct positioning allows it not to bend. There is some real comfort in this coverage.

#3 Gabe Vincent deserves some words.

Although I touched on the overall shooting of this group and Vincent being a part of that, the specifics need to be discussed. He’s just been super stable in his role this year, which consistently includes heavy fourth quarter minutes. The way he can wreck havoc on elite guards on the perimeter is a gift in its own, but when he catches a rhythm offensively, he’s a tough player to keep off the floor. The pull-up three was falling, but he’s generating paint touches, feeding to rollers, and playing much slower than his past seasons. Another thing to note is he’s playing in some heavy creation lineups, which means his off-ball control is crucial. And while the spot-up three hasn’t been as elite as you’d want, he has still been a pressure point. Vincent is a back-up point guard right now, but starts are coming with Lowry’s rest days soon to come. And I know many are comfortable in him there, just as he did in the playoffs last year.

#4: We know this Heat team can force turnovers, but they’re turning the page on capitalizing off them.

As I talked about previously with their zone, plus Jimmy Butler’s passing lane masterclass on a nightly basis, it’s pretty obvious that this is a team that can force turnovers even considering being smaller. But the issue so far this year has been scoring off of those turnovers. They’ve never been a team that runs in transition too often, but it’s almost necessary when looking at the lineups they’re running of smaller/quicker guys. In this game, they were moving the ball extremely well in general, but that proved to be the case even more-so in transition to cash in on some easy buckets. If they can try and convert on this consistently, it makes things so much easier in their half-court creation.

#5: Ball movement and taking care of the rock early? Yes. Consistently carrying into late-game? Well, no.

With the ball movement looking as crisp as we’ve seen it tonight against Portland, I already know conversations are brewing surrounding Tyler Herro. Yet while I believe off-ball Herro movement is essential for this group, I’m not a part of that group of thinking. This formula transcends personnel. When this team gets paint touches on-ball, moves a ton off-ball, and takes care of the rock, this will be a familiar result. Turnovers are killer for this group, which always tend to follow heavy ball movement squads. Yet when you have a night to get the best of both worlds, it’s a great development for this team’s offensive trends. The only issue is consistency, which always feels to be the case. While all of that was true for 42 minutes, it stalled in the last 6. Portland fought back as Miami wasn’t generating the same looks. Simply, a major problem. The shot profile can’t be this flip-flopped depending on the time on the clock. While I hit on positives throughout this game, this takeaway of consistency is by far the biggest.

Marlins Sweep

How sports help to write the best essay problems

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At first glance, it may seem that sports have little to do with helping young people overcome their struggles and challenges best assignment writing. After all, sports are often seen as a bit frivolous, fun activities that offer little in the way of real world benefits. However, research shows that engaging in sports can actually help young people develop important life skills like resilience, determination, and focus.

 

There are a number of ways in which sports help to build these critical skills. For one, they encourage young people to push themselves physically and mentally, setting high standards for themselves and striving to meet them. Additionally, they provide opportunities for individuals to learn from their mistakes, recover from setbacks, and find new ways to achieve their goals. And perhaps most importantly, sports offer a supportive community where young people can develop meaningful relationships and build confidence in themselves.

 

So if you’re looking for tools to help your child navigate the challenges of growing up, consider encouraging them to get involved in sports. Not only will it keep them active and happy, but it will also help them become stronger, more resilient individuals in the long run.

 

How playing sports helps to clear the mind and focus on the task at hand

Playing sports is a great way to clear the mind and focus on the task at hand. By getting physically active and engaging in a challenging activity, we are able to take our thoughts off of other things that may be causing stress or anxiety. Additionally, being in an environment where there is a strong sense of teamwork and support can help us feel connected to a larger community that we can turn to for guidance and support.

 

Whether it’s yoga, running, basketball, or another sport, there are countless ways to get involved in activities that can help clear the mind and focus on what really matters. And by getting in touch with our physical and mental well-being through sports, we can better manage the challenges and obstacles that come our way. So if you’re looking for ways to improve your focus and mental clarity, consider giving sports a try!

How sports help to relieve stress and anxiety

When we are feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety, engaging in sports can be a great way to find relief. By moving our bodies and focusing on the task at hand, we are able to shift our focus away from whatever may be causing us distress. Additionally, many types of physical activity offer opportunities for mindfulness and reflection, helping us to better manage our emotions and stay grounded in the present moment.

 

Whether you prefer team sports or solo activities like running or yoga, there are many different ways to get involved in sports that can help relieve stress and anxiety. And by taking the time to care for ourselves through physical activity, we can better manage the challenges and worries of everyday life.

 

How sports can help to improve writing skills

Sports can help to improve writing skills in a number of ways. For one, they encourage us to set goals and work towards achieving them. This can be particularly helpful for aspiring writers, who may struggle with self-discipline or motivation when it comes to getting their words down on paper. Additionally, many types of sports involve collaboration and teamwork, which can help us develop the skills needed to work well with others and build strong relationships.

 

Whether you enjoy writing poetry, essays, or fiction, there are countless ways to get involved in sports that can help improve your writing skills. So if you’re looking for tools to enhance your writing abilities, consider giving sports a try!

The importance of taking breaks when writing an essay

Or other piece of writing cannot be understated. By giving our minds and bodies a chance to rest and recharge, we are able to approach our work with renewed focus and energy. And when it comes to improving our writing skills, sports can be a great way to do just that.

 

Whether it’s yoga or running, playing team sports or enjoying a solo workout, there are many different ways to get involved in sports that can help improve your writing abilities. From boosting your focus and discipline to honing your collaborative skills and building strong relationships, the benefits of getting active go far beyond just improving your writing.

 

So if you’re looking for tools to take your writing to the next level, consider exploring the world of sports and see how they can help you achieve your goals. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or someone just starting out, there are endless possibilities to explore and enjoy!

Five Takeaways from Heat’s Loss to Pacers

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The Miami Heat headed up to Indiana for a single road game detour on Friday night, before they have a plethora of home games ahead.

It was far from a pretty basketball showing in this one. Trust me.

Anyway, the Heat fell short, so here are my immediate takeaways…

#1: First half offense: oh, let’s talk 3 point shooting.

The Heat shot 5 of 24 from deep in the first half tonight. Buddy Hield on the opposing side knocked down 4 threes alone in that span. Yeah, I’d say that tells a lot of the story of a game. Miami was generating pretty good looks throughout that period, but it just wasn’t dropping for most of the Heat’s role guys. They were looking their best through strong drives for fouls or post splits for Bam Adebayo to hit cutters, as he did on back to back plays to Gabe Vincent in the second quarter. Yet it’s clear that the blueprint when playing without Jimmy Butler, would be to hit perimeter shots with heavier offensive lineups. To add onto this, Indiana’s defense is one that allows pretty high percentage looks from deep, which is why this was a bit surprising.

#2: The bench looking thin…

No Jimmy Butler. No Victor Oladipo still. No Omer Yurtseven still. Nikola Jovic didn’t make the trip. So the bench was going to look pretty similar to the last game against the Kings. But after explaining that last section of shooting, this grouping had a big part in that. Gabe Vincent, Duncan Robinson, and Dewayne Dedmon formed the 8 man rotation early, and all three of them didn’t look like their best selves early. Robinson was missing open looks, Dedmon had a rough time with the Pacers’ quick guards in drop, and while Vincent struggled a bit early, still gave them enough on both ends in that back-up PG spot. Shortly after, the Heat’s “9th man” on the night Haywood Highsmith entered. At this point, many of us are looking for those minutes to go to Jamal Cain, but we’re just not there yet. Soon…

#3: The Bam Adebayo foul trouble conversation.

As I mentioned before, this team has no Yurtseven and a shaky Dedmon to make up the backline for Bam Adebayo. That leaves the team needing one thing: for Bam to stay on the floor as much as possible. Yet we’ve seen an uptick in fouls to begin this season, which could be for a few different reasons. The main one is that he’s being more aggressive as a rim attacker and roller, which is racking him up some offensive fouls. And I can live with that trade off. On the other end, he’s getting some fouls in the paint on contests, since he’s playing the “cover-up” game at all times, which he’s pretty accustomed to. The process of toning this down is awkward, since you don’t want to backtrack his aggressiveness on either end. But it gets to a point where they need to be mindful, since the trade-off of two points or keeping Bam on the floor, is an easy answer.

#4: Max Strus’ growth continues to shine.

When looking at this team to begin the year, there’s no doubt that Max Strus has been the one guy that’s growth has shined the most. For starters, he has saved this team’s offense time and time again when coming off the bench. His consistent shooting gives this team a different look and flow, but that’s just the beginning of his improvements. The defense has been serviceable, but more importantly, his overall movement and cutting to be a threat inside the arc has shifted his shot profile. We saw that again tonight on his third quarter run, where he scored 7 straight. A three off a DHO, followed by a steal and bucket in transition, then capped off by a perfectly timed cut when he noticed Haliburton ball-watching. Been clear that his bag has broadened.

#5: Bam Adebayo uplifting Miami offensively in the fourth, but it wasn’t enough.

As the Heat look like they have stalled out in their second half run, Bam Adebayo took the keys on a night without Jimmy Butler. He got into the middle of the floor for a good looking pull-up middy halfway through the 4th, giving Miami some offensive hope. Shortly after, on an ugly possession with the shot clock trickling down, he faked a handoff, sprinted at the rim, and got the and-1 to really catapult this group. It’s one thing to call plays for him late, but it’s another when he’s asserting himself at this time of a game. The only issue with all of that: nobody could find a flow from that point on. The ball was sticking, shots weren’t dropping consistently, and well, they still had a chance at the very end. Some back and forth with controversial calls led to the last minute feeling like an eternity. Eventually, down 2 with 10 seconds left, Herro attempted a fadeaway three for the win, that came up short…

Five Takeaways from Heat’s Win Over Kings

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The Miami Heat won a close one against the Sacramento Kings on the second night of a back to back.

Lets hop right into it.

Here are my takeaways…

#1: Kyle Lowry comes out in a different offensive version.

As the Heat walked onto the court without Jimmy Butler on Wednesday, it was clear they shouldn’t take this scrappy group lightly. They still needed some type of veteran presence to settle this group’s offensive structure, and Kyle Lowry was just that. In the first 15 minutes of basketball, Lowry tied his season high with 17. But the key there was that he looked kind of springy. He was engaged, was getting paint touches consistently, and hitting the necessary pull-ups out of both pick ad rolls, and off some curls. This Kings defense showed early that the middle of the floor would be open, as Lowry read that pretty quickly. Building this type of rhythm is a crucial aspect of this team when Butler returns.

#2: Competent back-up big minutes from Dewayne Dedmon?

The back-up 5 position has been a hot topic when evaluating Heat basketball, and the first name that has generally come up has been Dewayne Dedmon. His minutes haven’t looked great to begin the season on both ends, yet he was looking pretty good early in this one. He kept picking up the phone in that first half, as he celebrated a pair of above the break triples. He also had some strong boards on the interior, made some very nice passes in that mid to high post, and was generally in the right spot. Now, the shot selection is still extremely questionable. You just never seem to know the next shot to come from him on a given possession, but once he finds himself a bit like he did in this one, it’s the perfect innings eater before Bam Adebayo re-enters.

#3: Some extra perspective into Miami’s 2-3 zone.

I’ve talked a lot lately about the Heat’s reliance on the 2-3 zone defensively. It allows them to play two negative defenders at the same time, without having the worry about them being picked on in isolation. It also alters opposing teams’ shot profiles, since they can’t run the same actions that they normally do. But I do have one other thing to add when watching it in the first half against the Kings: when dealing with guard play with quick bursts off the attack, they can muck it up in an instant. As Malik Monk spaced on the right wing, he would attack off the catch and get to the middle of the floor pretty effortlessly. And well, that’s the exact thing you don’t want to happen when in zone. Now it’s a scramble, unnecessary help comes, and an open bucket on a spray. It’s a minor aspect, since the zone has been fantastic for them, but it’s the tweak they will be eyeing.

#4: The Heat’s third quarter offense: the high post/back-cut game-plan.

With the Heat searching for an offensive hub, it seemed like an easy choice for that to be Bam Adebayo consistently in the second half. His mid-range jumper started dropping, which basically forces his defender to stay away from the rim once he enters play-making mode. Well once that occurred, we saw Miami find something that works: it wasn’t a specific set or action, instead it was reading the one-on-one overplays. As Strus inserted the ball into Bam in that high post, his defender was already shedding over on the potential hand-off. Strus reading that, instinctively cut back door with Bam hitting him. Shortly after as Dedmon entered, we saw the same thing yet this time with Herro. High post entry pass, Herro’s defender was playing ahead, and boom another wide open back-cut. That’s how you create the anti-gravity of this Heat offense, so it’s just something to monitor.

#5: Another late-game walk-through.

As it seemed like the Heat stalled mid-way through the fourth quarter, the building got a little bit of energy. A wild Herro tip-in followed by an Adebayo tip-in himself cut the lead to 2 with the team gaining some flow. Speaking of that flow, Herro was the main element of a rhythm finder. Got into his mid-range pull up two possessions in a row for some much needed buckets, tying the game up at 96. Shortly after, the Heat were late on a rotation giving Kevin Huerter a decent look from three, giving the Kings back a 3 point lead. Coming out of the timeout, the Heat had a play in mind: quick DHO to get Bam the ball back in space. He got an easy bucket out of it. Next play, Bam hits Vincent out of the mid-post on a back door cut, like I discussed before. Then to capitalize a run, Lowry gets two feet in the paint, kicks to Herro, who swings to Strus for three. 4 point lead. The Kings came back the next two possessions with a lay-in and a foul on the bonus, tying the game back up at 103 with 50 seconds left. The Heat came back with a Herro-Bam PnR which led to a Herro lay-in, while Mitchell immediately answered back with a lay-in of his own. 32 seconds left, Lowry flows into his favorite turnaround jumper to give Miami a 2 point lead again. Yes, I know. A lot. Now that Kings have the ball, it somehow ends up in the hands of Sabonis at the rim, who gets fouled. 2 for 2. Final possession, ball in the hands of Herro. He gets it in isolation, pump-fakes, leans, game-time. Heat walk away with the win off the clutch bucket.

Five Takeaways from Heat’s Win Over Warriors

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The Miami Heat faced off against the Golden State Warriors yet again, and well, we saw a different process for the Heat in general.

A better process.

With some great late game execution, they pulled out the win.

So here are some takeaways…

#1: Max Strus and Duncan Robinson coming up big early on.

As Max Strus walked to the scorers table of a messy Heat offensive structure, I sent out a tweet. Can Strus save this offense yet again like he has recently? Somehow, the answer was yes yet again. With 9 minutes left in the second quarter, he was up to 11 points, giving this group some life. But he wasn’t the only one. Duncan Robinson joined the party as well, and he shined in many spots. Spot-up shots, movement (which I’ll get to next), passing, and even some paint touches that generated a lob to Bam. When you are getting this type of production from your two shooters, it’s a perfect formula for this team’s best two players. But let’s just keep an eye on sustainability, since they can’t be reliant on this.

#2: The bench group differences.

Strus and Robinson tie into this a good bit, but the Heat’s bench grouping turned things around for Miami early. What started out as a stagnant offensive bunch, the bench came in for a nonstop function of dribble hand-offs. Here comes Vincent, then Robinson, then Strus. Oh there’s Martin open on a back cut. Everything just operates so much smoother with movement. They provided a necessary spark, but it felt like they also provided a blueprint I’ve been focusing on for a bit. Motion, motion, motion. Once that’s done consistently, specifically in the first unit, we are having totally different conversations about this group.

#3: Side track: a look into the Jimmy Butler three.

To stray away from game specifics a bit, a couple Jimmy Butler 3’s in the second quarter made me think a bit. Watching the Instagram stories of Butler in the off-season were always funny, since you always had these thoughts of “are these really things he will be doing in game speed?” The slow launching three without much lift or movement was basically the headliner of this. Yet when watching him play, it always seems as if he’s better in that spot. Not rushed, not forcing, just pulling up slowly with a sagging defender in his view. Fast forward to the third quarter, Butler ended up taking 3 semi-rushed wing threes. From the same exact spot. All seemed to come up short, which just weirdly shows that his long pause on the face-up is his way of gathering rhythm. But I guess focusing on the stuff inside the arc mainly would be a decent point to make as well.

#4: Dealing with the Warriors offensive structure.

When keeping an eye on the numbers throughout the game, everything was pretty close. Turnovers, rebounds, shot distribution. The only main difference following the third quarter was that the Warriors offense went into Warriors offense mode. Miami’s three point shooting began to dip, while the Warriors shooting shot up a bit. Simply, while I’ve been harping on the lazy rotations from Miami as of late, I thought they were quite good. Mixing from switching to drop to zone, they handled it decently well. There were definitely some miscues on some unnecessary doubles, since that’s when the Warriors offense will get you. Motion, back-screen, skip pass, screen, paint touch, three. It’s just the nature of that offense, and I don’t believe Miami did a bad job through and through.

#5: Late-game walkthrough…

Halfway through the fourth of a tie game, the Heat found a certain offensive opening. Robinson pindown or handoff, two fly to him, Bam with a lane for the bucket. It was there to spam, and they did just that. After a timeout, the Warriors adjusted, yet Miami embraced it. Now that they weren’t two out at Robinson, the shot was there, and he knocked it down to tie the game back up, after Curry went Curry mode the play prior. 2 minutes to go, Bam made a great play as the weakside defender to poke it away and get Miami in transition. They pulled it out, ended up in a Lowry force, but he actually forced something good. Came off the screen, got by Thompson, got the lay-in. Wiggins responds with a mid-range bucket. Back the other way, we get a look at a Butler iso. A nasty move and spin gets him to the cup for the and-1, as Curry goes back in the other direction for a 3 point answer. Went from a foul call to a coaches challenge to a call reversal. After some empty possessions on both ends with the Heat holding a 3 point lead, the ball ends up in Jimmy Butler’s hands with 30 seconds to go. Inverted PnR, gets into pull-up range, pump fakes, bucket. That’s game.

6 Ways Hemp Can Impact Your Fitness Activities

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Weed from sativa seeds can get you energized for a workout. Professional athletes also use CBD for muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, and better sleep. The plant helps them feel better before, during, and after their training session. Would you like to hop on the bandwagon?

 

There’s still a lot we don’t know about the impact of cannabis on your mind and body. Existing research and anecdotes suggest various perks of using it before and after exercise, though.

 

Let’s investigate six ways cannabis chemicals might boost fitness activities.

 

Hemp, Cannabis, CBD

It’s hard to get active as an adult, but natural supplements can facilitate the grind. Popular options include omega-3 fish oil, green tea extracts, and as of late, hemp.

 

When discussing hemp, cannabis, and exercise, we mainly focus on the plant’s second-best-known cannabinoid: CBD.

 

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active chemical found in hemp and marijuana. It’s been in the limelight of medical research because it interacts with our bodies’ endocannabinoid system (ECS).

 

The ECS regulates many processes: pain and stress responses, appetite, and sleep. CBD helps restore equilibrium, making you feel balanced and pain-free.

 

Here are six ways it could support your fitness.

 

Anxiety Relief

Some people experience anxiety before hitting the gym or joining a class. As a result, they struggle to show up, stick around, and have fun while exercising. The mindset is a cornerstone of fitness, and CBD might help turn it around.

 

The chemical has well-reported soothing effects spanning your physical and psychological state. It may ease anxiety and muscle tension, letting you bring your A-game to each sweat sesh.

 

Sharper Focus

Whether lifting weights or learning martial arts, a sharp focus improves the quality of your training. That’s another area where CBD and working out go well together.

 

This chemical is a potentially valuable focus aid. People report experiencing more mental clarity upon consumption, especially if they generally struggle with brain fog or anxiety.

 

CBD might calm your mind and help you stay in the moment. You focus on the physical task, reduce the risk of injury, and enjoy yourself while in the ‘zone.’

 

Reduced Soreness

Training leaves you limber, but you start getting stiff as the delayed-onset muscle soreness settles in. Rest and stretching do the trick in time, but why not speed up the recovery?

 

When taken post-workout, CBD reduces muscle pain and tension. You still need to avoid high-intensity training, but rest day walks, jogs, and yoga are on the table once more.

 

If using CBD for muscle recovery, you might consume it or apply it topically. The former reduces overall soreness, while the latter soothes achy areas like pecs and quads.

 

Less Inflammation

Long and strenuous exercise can increase inflammation, raising the risk of injury and joint pain. Research suggests CBD might soothe the body’s acute inflammatory response and its adverse effects.

 

Paired with walks and anti-inflammatory foods, weed after your workout may make training safer and less painful.

 

Better Appetite

A well-rounded post-workout meal fuels the muscles and helps them heal. Some people experience a lack of appetite or nausea upon overexertion, though.

 

People who consume CBD report a reduction in nausea. While it doesn’t give you the munchies like THC, it could combat secondary reasons you might struggle to eat.

 

Deeper Sleep

Consuming CBD after a workout can aid the top aspect of recovery: sleep. Rest is essential for letting your body repair itself after strenuous activity. You find yourself too achy and tired to keep training when it’s broken or cut short.

 

CBD might increase the duration of deep sleep. It creates a well-rounded and sustainable fitness regimen that feels good.

 

Hemp and Exercise: Safety Tips

You can only train as much as your body’s recovery systems allow. Cannabidiol removes some restrictions and makes training less painful and more productive. Are there any downsides to using it?

 

Not if you get it pure. Stick to reputable manufacturers to avoid contaminated products. Also, get low-THC or CBD-only products to prevent intoxication.

 

Consult with your physician if using any other medication to avoid harmful interactions. Stop taking CBD if you experience nausea, fatigue, drowsiness, or diarrhea.

 

Consume the chemical in a safe environment first. Once you see how it feels, try an at-home workout under its influence. Do some calisthenic moves or yoga on a soft surface before taking it to the field or gym.

 

If passionate about exercise, skip blunts and consider alternative consumption methods. Smoking can reduce your aerobic activity and hinder your fitness goals. Oils and edibles are just as effective and keep your lungs safe.

 

Get Fit With Weed

A puff might help you get in the zone, and CBD post-workout may get you back to the gym or on the field faster. Why refuse natural assistance? The chemical is generally low-risk and can aid newbies and seasoned exercisers. Take it slow, listen to your body, and reap its benefits.

 

While CBD remains unregulated, we suggest buying seeds and growing marijuana or hemp to keep your fitness journey safe.