Tag Archive for: Basketball

March Madness: a closer look at this cultural phenomenon

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Every year during the middle of March, workplace productivity dramatically drops off in the United States. Indeed, sick days are used up, team calls are consistently moved around and lunch breaks are indefinitely prolonged. Why you may ask does this happen at the same time every year? The answer is simple: March Madness. 

Yes, this basketball tournament grabs the attention of Americans like little else does and turns those who aren’t necessarily fans of the sport, into fanatical supporters who live and die by every three-pointer thrown for or against their adopted team.

In short, for three weeks every year, this event has a nation doing nothing else but consuming the steady flow of fixtures over the early part of spring. So, how does March Madness work and why does the narrative around the competition dominate all the latest sports news websites in the build-up?

The format 

March Madness is a single-elimination competition that involves 68 basketball teams from the Division I level of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, otherwise known as NCAA. The objective for each team is simple; to do everything they can to get to the championship game.

These ambitions to be crowned national champions, however, can be over before they ever really begin as only 16 teams make it further than the first weekend. These 16 teams, known as the Sweet Sixteen, will then take part in their respective regional semi-finals.

Following that, the eight teams that make it successfully through these high-staked matches – dubbed the Elite Eight – will be tasked with having to win their specific regional finals to make it through to the last four of the nationwide tournament.

The remaining Final Four then compete in the official semi-final games where the eventual winners will get a chance to play in the national championship game.

It wouldn’t be an understatement to say that this is a fixture that is the pinnacle of many players’ lives who don’t go on to make it professionally. After all, millions of people tune in to watch the finale of a tournament that the country has lived and breathed for three weeks.; it’s all on the line and often, this game produces jaw-dropping entertainment.

Past champions

The Kansas Jayhawks were crowned the 2022 champions after they beat North Carolina in a game that will go down in March Madness folklore. Astonishingly, Kansas trailed North Carolina by as many as 15 points at the halftime interval yet came storming back in the second half to win a pulsating encounter 72-69. The enthralling ebb and flow of this particular championship game does give you a better idea of why the public puts their lives on hold when March Madness takes place. 

Historically speaking, the most successful college team of all time comes from the University of California, Los Angeles, with the Bruins having won the March Madness showdown 11 times.

What to expect in 2023 during March Madness?

The expectation in 2023 is much like it is for every other year with a carnival atmosphere predicted to sweep the US when March Madness begins with giveaways and office sweepstakes all on offer to mark the occasion. Notably, many promotions in the sports betting industry are also run during the playing of the tournament. 

This time around, it’s expected that March Madness will coincide with the launch of online sportsbooks in Massachusetts. Bettors in the Bay State will finally have access to online MA sportsbooks and more visibility of the sports betting market in 2023, which could come into effect in the championship in March.

 

Should this be the case and in the absence of the state’s team, UMass Minutemen not qualifying for the event, most of the bets will surely be placed on the two favorites, the Houston Cougars at odds of +650 and the Purdue Boilermakers at a price of +800.

Expect the unexpected

Although it’s always best to expect the unexpected when it comes to March Madness. As the name suggests, there is always a plot twist along the way which will take everyone by surprise. However, keeping on top of the madness that will inevitably unfold will be easy thanks to all the extensive coverage of the tournament, from podcasts to daily articles and regular TV segments dedicated to the event.

Yes, this is a competition like no other and is set once more to bring America to a grinding halt when 68 teams square up for the greatest prize in college basketball.

 

Why Live Blackjack is Perfect For Basketball Fans

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Are you a fan of basketball? It is one of the best sports around. It is fast-paced, and requires some concentration or you could miss a game-changing throw. There are a number of benefits that come with being a basketball fan and immersing yourself in the game. Some of the reasons why people love the game so much include the following: 

 

  • It’s full of personality 
  • It’s high intensity
  • It’s complex
  • There is a strategy involved 
  • The teamwork element 
  • How it is solidified in pop culture

 

That being said, as is the case with so many different hobbies that people are a fan of, it can often be the case that you want to take a brief break from it. This is not because you have begun to dislike the game, more so that too much of anything can sometimes become a bit intense. So, if this is the case and you are looking for something new that you can do while you take a break from basketball, you are likely scratching your head and wondering what your options are. Well, you might find that live blackjack is the perfect game for you, and the reasons why will be discussed in more detail below. 

 

It’s Easy to Access

 

If you are trying online blackjack because you like basketball, then you will want to make sure that the games you are playing are easy to access. These days, online gambling games have never been easier to play on; as such, they are perfect for people looking for a new hobby. The Cafecasino website has plenty of different games available. One of these is live blackjack, meaning if you are interested in giving it a go, it will be incredibly easy for you to get started. 

 

The Game Promotes Positivity 

 

Having a positive mindset is always important. This is the case whether it is in your professional or personal life. As such, it is something you need to have when watching the sport you love, basketball. When you are playing a game like blackjack and placing money on the outcome of the game, it’s non-negotiable that you have a positive mindset. If not, then you are simply not going to enjoy playing the game that you’re gaming on, and you’re going to find it hard to think of a reason to play on. 

 

As such, when you play the game, you are going to be improving your ability to have a positive mindset. You are steadily going to be less negative about the games you play because having a positive mindset is quintessential to the likes of live blackjack. You will be able to transfer those emotions to your basketball watching, meaning you will be better equipped for those harder games to watch. 

 

There Are Different Offers You Can Take Advantage Of 

 

If you are looking for a good deal in the games you play, then online casinos are an excellent way to get some. Because there has been a large increase in the number of people who play these games over the years, it means that different websites are keen to attract as many customers as possible. One of the most effective ways they do this is by offering different deals. These deals could be free games or some free chips, either way they are an excellent way that you can gauge whether or not you are interested in playing some of the different online games. As such, if you are taking a bit of a break from basketball and are keen on seeing whether this is the right hobby for you but don’t want to commit too much too soon, taking advantage of the different deals is the best way to go about it. 

 

Conclusion 

 

We all have different hobbies, which can vary from activities to sports we like to watch. One of the most popular sports in the world is basketball, and as such, if you are a fan of that, you likely enjoy looking up different teams, watching games, and seeing who will come out the best in the next year. Of course, like all hobbies, you might need to deviate from them or pick something else that can complement such a hobby. If you enjoy basketball, you will more than likely enjoy playing online blackjack. Be sure to consider the above points to find out more about why this might just be the case. 

What Do You Need to Know About Basketball?

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Basketball is one of the most well-known sports which is played throughout the world. The team sport involves two teams having five players each who are playing to fulfill a primary goal of the game, i.e., scoring against the other team via throwing the ball at a height of 300cm under specific rules. Various institutions have made both indoor plus outdoor courts for the game.

The basketball courts’ dimensions can vary, meaning there are no set limits for the height, length of time, size of a basketball, etc. In addition, the experience and skills of the players playing the game can also vary.  The fast-moving game involves various physical activities like passing, dribbling, shooting, defense, rebounding, etc.

At the end of the day, basketball is actually about as simple of a game for newcomers to grasp as Sloto Cash, so let’s jump right in!

Benefits of basketball on the health of players

In the game, there are various points for starting and stopping. Although it’s not considered an aerobic sport, it still provides multiple benefits. Playing basketball helps burn calories. For example, playing basketball for an hour will allow the player to burn 630-730 calories!

In addition, it is beneficial in building endurance and improves coordination and balance. The player learns self-discipline and develops concentration. Most players consider the game a source of building their muscles.

Other benefits of the game

Having a monotonous and boring routine might make you lazy. Most people who do remote jobs cannot communicate with others. Playing basketball would not only help them take action but also allow them to interact with others. It would be helpful to learn from people how to be a good basketball player.

People can play the sport all year round as it is indoors. There is no requirement on the number of players, i.e., a minimum of two persons can play the game. Besides this, each player can practice alone as well. All he needs is a ball and a hoop.

Points in a game

When a team in a basketball game does a basket, they are given two points, and the ball is automatically assigned to the next team. However, if it is made outside the three-point arc, the team is given three points, and for a free throw, the team is given one point. The points are awarded to the team for free throws based on specific rules, including the fouls made in half or even type of foul.

Fouling a shooter results in free throws given to the shooter based on the location from where he shot. Standing beyond the three-point line will award him with three points. However, team fouls do not give the team free throws until they reach a specific number during that half. Once the number is reached, the player is given 1 to 1 opportunity.

Game clock

Each game is divided into two sections. All levels of the game have two halves. Various colleges, schools, and universities conduct basketball game session that varies from 20 minutes to one hour.

These halves are divided into quarters consisting of 8 minutes. In between the halves, there is a gap of a few minutes; however, the gap between the quarters is comparatively shorter. If there is a tie between the two teams, an overtime period is conducted for varying lengths.

Violations of the game

  1. Dribbling the ball with a hand at great distance to the side is considered a violation of the game.
  2. Dribbling the ball with both hands is known as a double dribble. It is another violation of the game.
  3. Two or more players of the opposing team will get the ball at the same time. To prevent this, the referee stops such action and gives the ball to the team one by one on a rotating basis.
  4. When a defensive player interferes with a shot while the ball is falling towards the basket after being touched with the backboard or while being in the cylinder above the rim, it is known as Goaltending. If an offensive player commits this, it is considered a violation, plus the ball is given to the opposing team.
  5. Once the offense brings the ball across the mid-court line, they cannot cross the line back while having the ball. If they cross the mid-court line, the ball is given to the other team member to pass the inbound.
  6. The player passing the ball has a time limit of five seconds to pass it. If he does not give the ball, it is given to another team member, which means having the ball for more than five seconds and having shot-clock restrictions, which require the team to shoot within the given timeframe.

Personal foul penalties

  1. If a player is shooting while being fouled, he is awarded two free throws if the shoot does not go in, but if it goes in, he will get one free throw.
  2. If the player is fouled while not shooting, the ball will be given to the team on which the foul is committed. The team receives the ball near the baseline and gets only five seconds to pass the ball into the court.
  3. The fouled player is awarded two free throws if the team commits ten or more fouls.
  4. The fouled person will receive one free throw if the team commits seven or more fouls. In case of making a shot, he is given another free throw.

Intentional foul

In case of physical contact of the player with another player to snatch the ball, having no other intention is considered an intentional foul and a judgment call for officials.

Flagrant foul

Violent contact with the opponent is considered a flagrant foul. Such fouls include kicking, punching, and hitting.

Technical foul

Coach or any player can commit technical foul which is related to the manners of the basketball game.

Position of player

Center

The central position is basically for the tallest players. They are positioned near the basket.

Defensive: The primary responsibility of the center while defending is to prevent shooting by an opponent, which s done by blocking the shots. In this case, the players at the center are expected to get rebounds as they are taller.

Offensive: The center’s goal is to provide an open area so players can shoot or pass the ball. They block the defenders by screening or picking, which will open the way for other players so that they can run to score a goal. Such a position might receive put-backs and offensive rebounds.

Forward

The next tallest ones are given the forward position. They play the game under the hoop. In addition, they may also be required to play under the wings or in corner areas.

Defensive: the defensive responsibilities, in this case, would be preventing the drives to score a goal plus rebounding.

Offensive: They are responsible for taking outside shots, rebounding, and driving for goals.

Guard

This section is reserved for the shortest players who are required skills related to fast dribbling, seeing the court, plus passing. They bring the ball down the court or even set offensive plays.

Defensive: Being defensive, the guard is responsible for contesting shots, stealing passes, preventing drives to the hoop, plus boxing out.

Offensive: The guard’s primary responsibility is dribbling, setting up offensive play, and passing. In addition, they also are required to drive to the basket.

Important Basketball Rules That Every Player Should Remember

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Basketball is a game that is enjoyed by people of all ages all over the world. While there are many rules in basketball, there are some that are more important than others. In this blog post, we will discuss the most important basketball rules that every player should remember. These rules will help you to stay safe and play fair while enjoying this popular sport!

Remembering the important basketball rules

Basketball was invented in 1891 by Canadian James Naismith. The game has two teams with five players each, and the objective is to score points by shooting a ball through a hoop. The most important rule in basketball is that the ball must be bounced or passed between teammates. However, there is a huge variety of different rules, like a reach-in foul, or traveling. In order to play basketball, it is essential that you understand and abide by the rules of the game. Not only will this help to keep you safe while playing, but it will also ensure that you are fair and respectful to your opponents. The following are some of the most important basketball rules that every player should remember:

Always dribble with your non-dominant hand when you can

This will make it more difficult for your opponents to steal the ball from you. Furthermore, when dribbling, always keep your head up so that you can see where your teammates and opponents are. Another great reason why you should dribble with your non-dominant hand is that it will help you to become ambidextrous, which is a very valuable skill in basketball.

Never carry the ball for more than two steps without passing or shooting

Carrying the ball is also known as “palming”. This is a very dangerous move that can result in serious injury to yourself or another player. If you do carry the ball, make sure to pass it or shoot it within two steps. Additionally, never hold the ball for more than five seconds when you are dribbling. Doing so will result in a turnover. On the other hand, if you decide to bring the ball above your shoulders, you must do so with both hands.

Do not charge into another player, even if they are in possession of the ball

This is a very dangerous move that can result in serious injury. If you do charge into another player, make sure to do so with your shoulder, not your head. Furthermore, you must give the player you are charging time to react and move out of the way. If you do not, you will be called for a foul. On the other hand, if you are the one who is being charged, make sure to protect yourself by holding your ground.

Do not kick the ball or hit it with your fist

Kicking the ball is a very dangerous move that can result in serious injury. If you do kick the ball, make sure to do so with your foot, not your knee or head. Additionally, never hit the ball with your fist, as this can also result in serious injury. Aside from obvious injuries, this type of behavior can also damage the ball, which is expensive. Finally, reacting with a lot of emotion, like in these two scenarios can also cost you points as it is considered a technical foul.

Protect your head at all times – especially when going for a rebound

This is one of the most important rules in basketball, as head injuries are very common in this sport. When going for a rebound, make sure to protect your head by keeping your elbows in and your hands up. Basketball offers a plethora of benefits for younger people, and risking an injury in such a manner will be unnecessary. Additionally, always be aware of where the other players are, as they may accidentally elbow or hit you in the head while going for the ball.

Do not hold, push, or trip your opponents

This is considered a foul and can result in serious injury. If you do hold, push, or trip your opponents, make sure to do so with your hands or feet, not your elbows or knees. Additionally, never use excessive force when doing so. Just because you are allowed to hold, push, or trip your opponents does not mean that you should do so with all of your strength. Use just enough force to stop them from getting past you.

Stepping on the line is a mistake

It does not matter whether this is a foul or the 3-point line, stepping on the line while shooting or dribbling is considered a mistake. This is because it gives you an advantage over your opponents. If you do step on the line, make sure to do so with your foot, not your whole body. Additionally, always be aware of where the lines are so that you do not accidentally step on them. Yes, stepping on the 3-point line will still count as a basket, but only 2 points. However, stepping over the line of the out-of-bounds will result in a turnover.

Avoid arguing with the referees

Arguing with the referees is a very dangerous move that can result in serious injury. If you do argue with the referees, make sure to do so calmly and respectfully. Additionally, never use profanity or obscene gestures when arguing with the referees. This type of behavior will only result in your being ejected from the game. Referees also have the right to call technical fouls, which can cost you points and even lead to your being ejected from the game.

Make sure you know where the basketball is at all times

This is one of the most important rules in basketball. If you do not know where the ball is, you will be at a disadvantage and may even get hurt. Additionally, always be aware of where your opponents are so that you do not accidentally run into them. Kicking the ball is a very dangerous move that can result in serious injury.

 

In conclusion, these are some important basketball rules that every player should remember. By following these rules, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of your opponents. Additionally, you will be able to avoid costly mistakes that could cost you the game. Finally, always remember to have fun and enjoy the sport of basketball.

The Greatest Arkansas Basketball Players of All Time

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Arkansas basketball has a rich history, and while the Razorbacks have had some of the best players in the game over the years, they’ve also had their fair share of disappointments. From the rising stars of college basketball to some of the most celebrated players in the NBA, here’s a list of some incredible Arkansas players:

1. Sidney Moncrief

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/XcBPc0Q_2h8

Sidney Moncrief, who played at Arkansas from 1975 to 1979, was a three-time All-American and can be credited with putting the Razorbacks’ basketball program on the national map.

The shooting guard’s accolades include playing in the NBA All-Star game for 5 consecutive years. In addition to his consensus First Team All-American designation during one of those seasons (1979), he was also named Consensus Second Team All-American in 1979. His scoring average of over 20 points per game for four seasons surely makes him deserving of his spot on our list.

2. Joe Johnson

Another notable player in Razorbacks history, Joe Johnson spent his collegiate days playing for the University of Arkansas. He was named the state’s Mr. Basketball in 1999 and has made the NBA All-Star team a grand total of 7 times.

When turning professional, he was drafted tenth overall by the Boston Celtics, where he stayed for just one season. He played for six other teams before returning to the Celtics in the 2021 season.

3. Corliss Williamson

Born in Russellville, Corliss Williamson played basketball at Arkansas (1992-95) before going on to play in the NBA for the Sacramento Kings (twice), Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, and others.

He won a range of titles over his career and also became a coach in 2007. His 12-year coaching career included a few seasons with a team from his home state, Arkansas Baptist.

4. Alvin Robertson

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/qk03WPpOS-Q

Alvin Robertson is a four-time All-Star who played for the San Antonio Spurs from 1984 to 1989. He was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 1986 and was part of the All-NBA Second Team in the same year.

Robertson remains the only player ever to have over 300 steals in a season and also holds the record as the player with the highest average steals per game – 2.71. He started his NBA career with the San Antonio Spurs and played for four other teams during his career, including the Detroit Pistons.

5. Oliver Miller

Oliver Miller, also known as the ‘Big O’ thanks to his huge 6’9″ frame, played for the Razorbacks until his graduation in 1992. The center was named CBA All-Star in 2003 and drafted 22nd overall in the 1992 NBA Draft, where he was selected by the Phoenix Suns.

Miller played for a considerable number of teams during his career, including several international ones in countries such as Greece, Poland, and China.

6. Todd Day

Todd Day was a shooting guard who played for the Arkansas Razorbacks from 1989 to 1992. He was a second and third-team All-American in 1991 and 1992, and the Razorbacks saw considerable success when he was part of the team.

Day was also named SWC Co-Player of the Year in 1991 before being drafted in the first round of the 1992 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks. He then played for a range of teams, including in Cyprus and Brazil, before becoming a coach in 2016 at Philander Smith, a role he continues with today.

7. Bobby Portis

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/kXJksx1kdJ0

A professional basketball player, Portis was born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas. He played college basketball at the University of Arkansas before being drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft. He went on to play for the Washington Wizards and New York Knicks before moving to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2020, where he still plays today.

He was an SEC Player of the Year in 2015 and made it to the NBA Championships three times, playing for the winning team in 2021.

Conclusion

Arkansas is a state with a rich history of basketball, and these players are just a few of the many who have made their mark. We know you’re going to agree that they deserve to be on this list.

 

A guide to betting on the NBA

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The National Basketball Association (NBA) is one of the most popular sports in the United States. It is a league that has 30 teams in total, and it is considered one of the major premier sports leagues on the North American continent. Not only that but it’s also considered the best basketball league anywhere in the world.

The league was founded in New York over 70 years ago and has hosted some of the most dramatic games in the history of American sports. It has spawned countless films, books, television shows and documentaries which feature the game heavily.

It has also produced a number of crossover stars who are prominent figures in American society, including legends such as the late Kobe Bryant and the phenomenal Michael Jordan.

The legendary Chicago Bulls talisman has featured in huge films such as Space Jam and recently had a Netflix documentary about him called The Last Dance, which was released in 2020 to critical acclaim.

This documentary detailed the sensational skill and mentality Michael Jordan displayed in the 1997-98 season, which was his final season with the Chicago Bulls. The league has also been home to characters such as Dennis Rodman, Shaquille O’Neal and LeBron James.

Gambling on the NBA has been available for quite some time. Initially, it was something that was more or less exclusive to Las Vegas-based casinos that had sportsbooks dedicated to major professional leagues, including the NFL and NHL as well.

 

NBA betting is a market that is now available in most countries around the world — the ones that allow gambling on their shores of course. There are several types of markets you can bet on when it comes to Basketball, and today we’re going to explore them in finer detail.

 

You can place a wager on a whole range of markets, this includes betting on one specific team to win a match, one team to win by a certain number of points or a team to lose by a certain number of points. 

 

On top of this, you can also gamble on the outcome of the season’s matches. You can bet on who you think will make the playoffs or who will become champions at the end of the season.

The Golden State Warriors are the most formidable team of their generation, and this excellent crop of current players added yet another title to their collection last season. They were favorites for many going in and did not disappoint.

Many analysts and players consider them to be favorites again this season, despite other teams making strong additions to their roster. Only time will tell if the Golden State Warriors can scoop up yet another title, but it is certainly looking promising for them.

Most people consider it a straight shootout between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics, two of the most legendary teams in professional basketball. Some may slightly favor the Celtics, and some people may slightly favor the Golden State Warriors. There is no doubt that it will certainly be an exciting season.

Another type of betting you can explore is parlay betting. This is a relatively new version of gambling markets, and it is very popular in countries such as the United Kingdom, where it is known as an accumulator. When several matches will start at or near the same time, you can combine the outcomes for a larger payout.

 

This – of course – is a more difficult way to place a bet. It can be hard enough to bet on one team, never mind four or five! However, it can pay dividends as the odds are multiplied together. So, if you have a hunch that a few teams might win, it could be quite the payday.

 

It is important to note here that you must only gamble what you can afford to lose. If you stop enjoying gambling but continue to do it, despite the negative consequences, you should seek help and stop.

You can also make use of gamble limits or timers to ensure you do not get too carried away on certain gambling sites. This can also help limit you to ensure that you gamble for fun and do not consider it as a source of income.

Handicap betting is a popular form of betting across a range of team sports –  it is also referred to as spread betting. Essentially, it involves giving one team a virtual deficit (a handicap) to overcome at the start of the match. 

 

When it comes to handicap betting, the higher the handicap, the better the odds usually are. This is true for the vast majority of handicap bets involving NBA teams.

 

In addition to all the markets we have mentioned, you can also combine the different types of odds. For example, you may place a bet on the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat to both win their games, you could then combine this with a bet for the Celtics to win the Playoffs.

 

This would be considered a treble bet, but you can usually combine up to about 10 specific selections. You could also look to bet on the outcome of certain playoff games and the final score.

Let’s say, theoretically speaking, that the Boston Celtics were playing the Golden State Warriors in the final. The Playoff final, as we all know, is a best-of-seven matchup. If you thought the Celtics were going to emphatically beat the Warriors, you could bet on them to win 4 games to 2.

You could also bet on other outcomes, such as 3-0 or 4-1. Although the final two are unlikely, this will be reflected in the odds.

Usually, the bulk of NBA betting consists of betting on a handicap. For example, you can gamble on whether a certain team scores over or under a certain number of points. 

 

You can combine this across the market between different teams, and it means you can get a bit more out of your bet. If you want to combine your bet across a range of different sports, including the NBA, plenty of online bookmakers also offer this option as well.

 

Best Centers in the WNBA Right Now

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The WNBA is filled with great players and big stars right now, but who are the best centers who have been tearing up the league this season? 

The following are powerful, skillful centers with all the attributes to dominate their rivals on the court. 

Jonquel Jones – The Connecticut Sun

The versatility that Jonquel Jones possesses means that she can slot in easily as a forward or center and makes her a potential favorite in the WNBA odds 2022 for MVP. 

She was born in the Bahamas and moved to the US at the age of 14, but represents Bosnia and Herzegovina at the international level. Jones has been in the WNBA since joining the Connecticut Sun following the 2016 draft.

She started as their backup center before claiming the starting spot in her second season, with a performance against Chicago Sky where she got 23 points and 21 rebounds marking her breakthrough as a genuine star of the women’s basketball scene.     

Her stats with the Sun have been getting increasingly impressive and she’s the current MVP in the league. Marketing opportunities have been slowly arriving for her, so you might see more of her soon, but her relatively low profile confirms the work that’s still needed to promote the WNBA. 

Tina Charles – The Seattle Storm

One of the big basketball stories of this summer was Tina Charles making an unexpected move from the Phoenix Mercury to the Seattle Storm. As the leading scorer in the WNBA in 2021, this was a huge move that should increase the chances of Seattle winning the Playoffs, although they’re currently not regarded as one of the favorites but could surprise a few people. 

Before that, she was a national champion in her college years with the UConn Huskies and has helped Team USA to collect three Olympic gold medals over the years as well. Her time in the pro league began back in 2010 when the Connecticut Sun picked her in the 2010 draft as the number one overall pick.

She quickly made an impact in the pro league, becoming the Rookie of the Year in 2010 as she set league records for rebounds and double-doubles. Charles has set a number of WNBA records since then and joined the New York Liberty and then the Washington Mystics before a short spell at Phoenix, where she seems to have been disappointed with the lack of success achieved by the team.

Candace Parker – The Chicago Sky

Parker recently joined Tamika Catchings in fourth place in the all-time rebounding list, with a totals of 3,316. This has been achieved during a long pro career where her versatility has seen her play as center and also as a forward. She was the first pick in the 2008 draft, joining the Los Angeles Sparks following her college career at the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers, where she was listed for the forward, center, and guard positions.  

During her college career, Parker made the headlines as the first female player to dunk during an NCAA tournament, and she also became the first player to do it twice in the same college game. Following that, she was the second player to dunk during a WNBA game. She led the Sparks to the Finals title in 2016 and then did the same in 2021 with the Chicago Sky.

Among her achievements, Candice Parker has twice been named as the most valuable player in the WNBA and has a couple of Olympic gold medals in her collection. Her move to Chicago as a free agent after 13 years in Los Angeles raised some eyebrows in the game, but it let her move closer to where she grew up and seemed to have given her a new edge to her game at the same time.

Teaira McCowan – The Dallas Wings

Following a highly successful college career with the Mississippi State Bulldogs, Teaira McCowan joined the Indian Fever as the third overall pick in the 2019 WNBA draft. Her first season saw her post excellent figures that put her in second place in the league in terms of rebounding and earned her a spot on the All-Rookie Team.

Like many of the top WNBA players, McCowan has also played overseas, with Galatasaray of the Women’s Basketball Super League in Turkey. With Dallas, she’s recently made her way into the starting line-up and has climbed to second in the league for rebounding and free throw attempts since them. 

Her recent efforts have helped push the Wings towards the Playoffs, and they look to be in a strong position to have a chance of winning the Finals this year. A look at the WNBA Finals odds shows that Dallas is among the outsiders, behind favorites like the Chicago Sky and the Las Vegas Aces. However, the wings will be hoping that McCowan can guide them to an unlikely victory.

Biggest Benefits of Playing Basketball for Students

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We often hear things like: “playing basketball will help you grow taller” or “sports will make you stronger and faster”. This is not inaccurate. It is not a myth or a misconception. There are tons of studies that show how beneficial basketball can be for those that practice it. But, it expands beyond growing taller or becoming stronger. 

There are tons of benefits from playing basketball, and this sport has the biggest perks for the younger generations. If you want to learn how basketball can improve the college student’s life, keep reading. 

  • Playing Basketball Helps You Get Higher Grades

Many argue that playing sports in college takes away the focus from the studying or leaves very little time for students to focus on their academic tasks. Well, this is not accurate. There is tons of research that point out to the positive effects on the academic performance in athletes. 

Sports help students beat the stress, which is the main reason why they lose motivation and focus. They also help them build time management and teamwork skills, which are essential for deadlines, as well as school projects. 

Yes, juggling academic tasks, practice and matches all at the same time is challenging. However, this is no reason to believe that students cannot do both. When they rid themselves from the stress thanks to basketball, they will spend less time writing their papers and be more motivated to study. On top of that, as a student, you can today easily find depression essays for your paper and get inspired by quality content from companies like EduBirdie. Essay samples can help you write your papers faster and better, and let’s not forget that you can even order when you don’t have the time to write them yourself!

  • Sports Encourage Socialization

School sports such as basketball are great for socialization. They create a feeling of belonging and boost the self-esteem in the players. For a student, socialization is very important and playing sports is one of the best forms of it. In a team, teammates develop lifelong bonds, and they also find it easier to socialize with fans of the game. 

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  • Basketball Has Tremendous Health Benefits for the Player

The health benefits of basketball as a sport are numerous. Start with strength and stamina – playing this sport often will boost the student’s agility, strength, and help them move faster. It also builds up the muscular endurance and builds upper and lower body strength. 

In addition to this, playing a team sport like this one has a positive effect on the strength of bones. A 2018 research shows that people who played sports like basketball and handball have more bone mineral density than people with a more sedentary lifestyle. 

Since the game of basketball requires a lot of focus and great coordination, it’s also an amazing balance booster. As students play, they need to move their body fast and react in the form of changing directions, pivot, run and jump. They also develop defensive moves, all of which offers them the opportunity to develop their motor skills.

Last but not least, basketball boosts the health of the heart. According to research data, it increases the resting heart rates and promotes the cardiorespiratory fitness health.  All this creates a much lower chance of developing cardiovascular diseases in the future. 

  • It Develops Self-Discipline and Concentration

In the game of basketball, everything happens in a set timeframe. This is a game of seconds where one choice can make all the difference for the score. The course of basketball can change rapidly so players, especially student athletes, need to work hard to develop their concentration while on the field. 

In addition to this, basketball helps students build up their self-discipline, both on the court and off it. They must follow the rules of the game, conduct sportsmanlike, and practice professionally. Even when they aren’t playing, they need to engage in workouts, maintain a healthy diet, etc. 

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Final Thoughts

We all know that playing sports is good for our health, but did you know that there are so many benefits of it for students? This will not only help you look good in front of the peers, create lifelong friends from your team, or make you look physically fit – it will also strengthen your health and boost important life skills such as concentration, critical thinking, and decision-making. All in all, it’s a great sport to practice. 

 

Author’s Bio

Matthew Torain is a sports blogger and writer for a popular content creation service. As a former basketball player in his college’s league, Matthew often shares his knowledge and tricks with young players. In his articles, you can often read about his experiences, as well as learn interesting facts about sports. 

TBT

Team Defeat Diabetes Competing in TBT 2022

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The Basketball Tournament, known by fans these days as TBT, stands as one of the more popular forms of summer basketball to enjoy. This year, the tournament hosts 64 teams playing in a single-elimination bracket for a winner-take-all $1 million. The teams are made up largely of professional and former college stars, some representing their former schools while others play on sponsored teams, like team Defeat Diabetes.

TBT 2022 will be ninth installment of the tournament, with games being played in July and August, aired on ESPN and ESPN2. South Florida basketball fans might recognize the Category 5 team, made up of University of Miami alumni, including the recently graduated Chris Lykes and former Canes stars like Durand Scott. Miami Heat fans might recognize former Heat players Jamario Moon and James Ennis, playing on teams, amongst others.

This event provides players an opportunity to showcase their skills in the States, in an effort for some to make or return to the NBA. This includes former first-round NBA Draft picks and, for the first time, frontline NBA Draft prospects. The Overtime Elite squad features twins Amen and Ausar Thompson, both of whom are projected top-10 picks in the 2023 draft.

But beyond that, many of these teams find themselves playing to support of important causes, like Type-1 diabetes. There are squads representing a variety of foundations, including those for ALS, autism, cancer, mental wellness, and muscular dystrophy.

Team Defeat Diabetes to Debut in TBT 2022

In its first year at TBT, the Defeat Diabetes team hopes to benefit those individuals living with Type-1 diabetes. The squad is sponsored by the JDRF, formerly known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. They will donate a portion of their winnings to the foundation.

Former University of North Florida star Jalen Nesbitt co-founded team Defeat Diabetes with his fiancé, Cristina Desemone. Nesbitt, a Spartanburg, SC, native, sports seven years of professional basketball experience in Europe.

Desemone, who has been living with Type-1 diabetes since 2006, is a registered dietitian specializing in performance nutrition. She works with athletes to help them reach their performance goals and prepare them for an elite level of play. The couple felt TBT provided a solid platform from which to advocate for those with diabetes.

The team will play out of the Xavier Region at the Cintas Center, in Cincinnati, Ohio. They have a growing presence on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, as well as YouTube. They continue their funding efforts on GoFundMe.

Defeat Diabetes TBT Team Roster

The Defeat Diabetes roster sports 10 players, headlined by former NBA forward Gary Forbes. The 37-year-old Forbes spent two seasons in the NBA, playing with the Denver Nuggets (as a teammate of former Heat fan-favorite Chris ‘Birdman’ Andersen) and Toronto Raptors. Interestingly, he was part of the trade package that sent current Miami Heat guard Kyle Lowry from Houston to the Raptors in 2012.

Forbes played in previous TBT events for the Talladega Knights (2017) and Gael Nation (2018). He played collegiately at both Virginia (2003-05) and UMass (2006-08). Forbes earned Atlantic-10 Player of the Year honors in 2008.

Gary Forbes is one of three players with Type-1 diabetes to play in the NBA. Following his stellar college career, Forbes joined Chris Dudley and Adam Morrison as the only other players in NBA history with Type-1 diabetes. Only one player, Lauren Cox, has played in the WNBA with Type-1 diabetes.

In committing to team Defeat Diabetes for TBT, Forbes said he wants to “represent those living with Type-1 diabetes.”

The team’s co-founder, Jalen Nesbitt, recently played for Almansa in the Spain-LEB Gold league during the 2021-22 season. Nesbitt starred at the University of North Florida, in Jacksonville, from 2013-15. As a senior, Nesbitt started in all 35 games for UNF while averaging 10.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. He helped UNF capture the program’s first Atlantic Sun Conference title and advance to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in school history.

Nesbitt says he’s “excited to bring awareness to Type-1 diabetes”. The 28-year-old shooting guard stands “ready to compete and win this million dollars.”

Rest of the Roster

Joining Forbes and Nesbitt on team Defeat Diabetes for TBT are veterans of both NCAA and international professional basketball.

Donovan Donaldson played collegiately at Tusculum University in Tennessee. The 25-year-old guard has played in Germany, North Macedonia, and most recently Hungary with PVSK-Veolia.

Arthur Edwards played at Alabama in the 2015-16 season, starting all 33 games and averaging 9.5 points-per-game. The 29-year-old guard has played in the NBA G League, Bulgaria, and most recently Switzerland.

Demonte Flannigan excelled at Cleveland State. He played under head coach Gary Waters, who also coached former Miami Heat guard Norris Cole. After college, Flannigan has played in the top leagues in the UK, Denmark, and Georgia.

Cameron Forte comes to team Defeat Diabetes as a TBT veteran, including a 39-point/23-rebound performance the 2018 event. At Portland State during the 2015-16 season, he averaged 19.2 points-per-game, earning All-Big Sky Second Team honors. Forte has played professionally in Canada, the Philippines, Mexico, and Iceland.

JJ Frazier averaged 18.8 points-per-game during his senior season at Georgia and earned All-SEC First Team honors. He has played professionally in Italy and Turkey. Frazier’s also played for the Memphis Hustle of the NBA G League.

Brevin Priztl led the Big Ten in 3-point field goal percentage during conference play (53.5) as a junior at Wisconsin in the 2018-19 season. He has played professionally in Serbia and Denmark since then.

Zac Seljaas played four years at BYU before playing professionally in Georgia for BC Vera. The 24-year-old averaged 22.1 points-per-game and 12.0 rebounds-per-game during the 2021-22 season.

Emmanuel Wembi finished his college career Lenoir-Rhyne before playing overseas in Croatia and most recently Estonia. This past season he averaged 12.2 points-per-game and 8.2 rebounds-per-game for Tartu Ülikool Maks & Moorits in Estonia.

Support Team Defeat Diabetes at TBT 2022

To support team Defeat Diabetes at TBT 2022 you can donate on their GoFundMe page. Follow them on their social platforms, including their YouTube channel, their Twitter page, as well as both their Facebook page and on Instagram.

5 Tips to Profit while Betting on Basketball

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Professional basketball bettors have developed a keen capacity to identify value in betting lines, which they have developed over hundreds of hours of practice and experience. The experts have a couple of behaviors that are simple for amateur sports bettors to adopt and will immediately result in more profitable NBA wagers.

 

You will be able to approach betting on basketball with greater confidence if you use profitable basketball tips to your advantage. By using certain tips, rather than making simple estimates based on chance observations, you will be able to put together and execute a strategy that will increase your chances of winning.

 

There is no reason to settle for ineffective and simplistic methods of engaging the NBA betting game. Following legitimate NBA betting tips can assist you in making better informed, profitable wagers and determining which NBA games to wager on.

Check the Schedule

Depending on rest spots, travel, and motivation, the calendar can occasionally affect a team’s performance on the court. Situational betting, commonly called spot betting, is an effective strategy for identifying underlying value while betting on or against a team.

 

The schedule may require a team to play numerous games in a short time, leaving them depleted for the final games of that period. Additionally, the schedule can include an extended break from the action to allow coaches and players to change their game plans and recover injured bodies. And, as always, keep an eye out for lookahead and letdown spots surrounding key games and significant wins.

Always Track Your Results

While everyone can win a bet or two, individuals seeking long-term success must keep accurate records of their wagers. Consider making a spreadsheet that tracks the date, the wager, the sportsbook, the odds, the final score, and your profit or loss. Include another column for notes and remarks about the action. This information will assist you in fine-tuning your approach and making more informed wagering decisions of your Odds to Win NBA Finals bets. 

 

As you track your profitability over time, you’ll discover the value of devoting time to conducting thorough research on each wager. Keep an eye on your NBA betting to stay current on news and trends and simply enjoy the game.

Bet Early

One of the most effective strategies for gaining an edge when betting on NBA games is to begin betting immediately after the markets open each morning. As oddsmakers and bettors gain more knowledge about games as the match approaches, betting early helps you profit from any first line errors released by oddsmakers before they are corrected.

 

Since bookmakers update their lines in real-time depending on activity received, injury news, and other variables, the lines grow more accurate and more difficult to overcome as the day progresses. 

 

Betting on sports is the ultimate multi-player game. You are not only up against the bookmaker; you are up against thousands of other sports bettors whose opinions shape the market. Considering what the great majority of the public and seasoned professionals think about a game enables you to correctly read the market and choose the optimal time to place your bets.

Take Note of Injury Reports

When it comes to NBA betting, the importance of injuries cannot be overstated. Bet early in the morning, but be accessible in the afternoon to monitor injury news and watch for games where an injury could significantly impact the outcome.

 

It is usual for top players to sit out back-to-back games in the era of load management. You must predict which players will sit out based on the previous play, press reports, and betting markets. There are slower-moving sportsbooks that are slower to adjust their spreads and totals in response to injury news, which is one immense opportunity for bettors to gain an edge.

Pace Factor and Scoring

There are two critical stats to review before betting on the over or under for a game’s total. The first is the Pace Factor, which estimates a team’s possessions per 48 minutes. The second is team scoring. Team scoring keeps track of a team’s total points scored in a game, including regulation and overtime points.

 

If you check both statistics thoroughly, you’ll discover that the teams with the highest scoring averages are not usually the ones with the highest Pace Factor and vice versa. This is because a fast pace frequently results in turnovers and inconsistent shooting. Conduct a side-by-side analysis to determine which teams excel at both. Teams that excel on both fronts will average a high number of possessions each game and score efficiently with those possessions.

 

Final Thoughts

By following the several tips above, such as checking the schedule, betting early, paying attention to injury reports, scoring, and recording your results, you can take the first step toward being an expert bettor. With sufficient knowledge, you may place a confident wager and enjoy the NBA.

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