#ClutchBasket Notas del baloncesto Boricua e Internacional

Mourning, Arcain and Tanjevic among 11 top basketball personalities making up 2019 Class of FIBA Hall of Fame

MARCH 26, 2019 MIES (Switzerland) - Alonzo Mourning (USA), Janeth Arcain (Brazil) and Bogdan Tanjevic (Montenegro) are among the 11 top basketball personalities that make up the FIBA Hall of Fame's 2019 Class of Inductees. After being a part of the USA team that finished third at the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 1990, Mourning helped the Americans reclaim the title four years later and then went on to add an Olympic gold medal at the Sydney Olympics. On top of these achievements for his country, he also had an illustrious 16-year NBA career. Arcain is widely considered one of the best players in the women's game and as such boasts an impressive list of accomplishments. The biggest among these are helping Brazil to win the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in 1994 and follow that up with an Olympic silver medal two years later in Atlanta. Tanjevic led Italy to the title at FIBA EuroBasket 1999 and helped Yugoslavia finish second at the 1981 edition of Europe's biggest basketball competition. He also famously steered Turkey all the way to the Final at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2010 on home soil. Mourning and Arcain are two of eight players being enshrined. They are joined by: Margo Dydek (Poland - posthumously), Atanas Golomeev (Bulgaria), Fabricio Oberto (Argentina), Jose "Piculin" Ortiz (Puerto Rico), Mohsen Medhat Warda (Egypt) and Jiri Zidek (Czech Republic).  Joining Tanjevic among the coaches rounding out this impressive class are Natalia Hejkova (Slovak Republic) and Mou Zuoyun (China - posthumously). These 11 basketball greats, from 11 different countries across three continents, were selected from a list of more than 150 candidates. Combined, they have won 2 FIBA Basketball World Cups and 6 Olympic medals. The 2019 Class will be enshrined into FIBA's Hall of Fame during a special ceremony taking place in Beijing, China, on August 30, on the eve of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 tipping off. They will be presented at half-time of the opening game in Beijing on August 31. Arcain said: "I'm very happy to be a part of the 2019 Class of the FIBA Hall of Fame Inductees. It means a lot to get an honor like this from FIBA, which does so much for the game of basketball. All of my life, I have done everything I could to represent myself, my family and my country as best as possible. It's also been very important to me to serve as a role model for the children who look up to me. As a Brazilian, to be joining in the FIBA Hall of Fame, some of the greats from my country like Hortencia (Marcari), Magic Paula (Maria Paula Silva) and Oscar Schmidt... I don't have the words to describe that feeling." FIBA President Horacio Muratore said: "It's a tremendous pleasure and honor to announce the 11 basketball personalities that make up the 2019 Class of FIBA Hall of Fame Inductees. Through this class, we are proud to say we now have our first-ever inductees from China, Czech Republic, Montenegro and Slovak Republic. These eight players and three coaches have performed on the biggest stages and achieved success at the highest level. In doing so, they have also helped grow and develop our game by inspiring new generations of players and coaches. We look forward to paying tribute to them and having them be a part of the FIBA Hall of Fame." Here is the full list of inductees that make up the 2019 Class of the FIBA Hall of Fame: Players Janeth Arcain (Brazil) Margo Dydek (Poland - posthumously) Atanas Golomeev (Bulgaria) Alonzo Mourning (USA) Fabricio Oberto (Argentina) Jose "Piculin" Ortiz (Puerto Rico) Mohsen Medhat Warda (Egypt) Jiri Zidek (Czech Republic) Coaches Natalia Hejkova (Slovak Republic) Bogdan Tanjevic (Montenegro) Mou Zuoyun (China - posthumously)

TORONTO RAPTORS’ PASCAL SIAKAM RECEIVES
FEBRUARY NBA CARES COMMUNITY ASSIST AWARD 

PRESENTED BY KAISER PERMANENTE 

– NBA and Kaiser Permanente to Donate $10,000 to Right To Play –

NEW YORK, March 22, 2019 – Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam has received the February NBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by Kaiser Permanente in recognition of his efforts to empower and inspire youth in both local and global communities, the NBA announced today.  The award recognizes an NBA player each month who best reflects the passion that the league and its players share for giving back to their communities.

Kaiser Permanente and the NBA are honoring Siakam for his efforts to engage youth through the game across Canada and Africa.  Siakam visits numerous schools in Toronto and throughout Canada as an ambassador for Right To Play, encouraging students to rise above adversity through sports and education.  As a representative for the Sun Life Dunk for Diabetes program, he also inspires children to lead healthy and active lives.  Utilizing his fluency in English and French, he has empowered youth in many marginalized communities to overcome obstacles and become leaders. 

In August, the Cameroon native played in the NBA Africa Game 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa and visited the 16^th edition of Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa, where he mentored campers in oncourt development and life skills training as an alumnus of the program.  Throughout the week, Siakam participated in a series of events that left a lasting impact in Johannesburg, including a Habitat for Humanity service project, a training camp for the Jr. NBA World Championship Africa & Middle East teams and a visit to the Nelson Mandela Centre for Memory.  In December, he represented Cameroon at the Giants of Africa Gala in Toronto, part of a two-day celebration honoring Nelson Mandela and his vision that sports have the power to inspire and change the world.

  

“I am excited and honored to receive the Community Assist Award for February.  My passion is basketball and I’m so lucky to be able to use this sport to give back to my community,” said Siakam.  “Basketball is bigger than just a game.  It’s an opportunity to give back to my new home of Toronto as well as Cameroon.”  

Before the Raptors’ home game against the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday (6:00 p.m. ET), NBA Canada Managing Director Dan MacKenzie and Toronto Raptors General Manager Bobby Webster will present the award to Siakam during an oncourt ceremony.  In addition, Kaiser Permanente and the NBA will donate $10,000 on Siakam’s behalf to Right To Play.

The NBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by Kaiser Permanente honors the standard set by NBA legend David Robinson, who improved the community piece by piece.  At the end of the 2018-19 regular season, the Seasonlong NBA Cares Community Assist Award winner will be announced at the 2019 NBA Awards presented by Kia.  To learn more, please visit http://www.nba.com/communityassist/.

BOSTON’S MARCUS SMART FINED

NEW YORK, March 21, 2019 – Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart has been fined $50,000 for forcefully shoving Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid to the floor, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.

Smart’s fine was also based on his repeated acts of unsportsmanlike conduct during NBA games, including two prior incidents this season which have resulted in fines.

The incident, for which Smart received a Flagrant Foul 2 and an automatic ejection, occurred with 7:06 remaining in the third quarter of the Celtics’ 118-115 loss to the 76ers on March 20 at Wells Fargo Center. 

To view the incident, click on the following link:

https://www.nba.com/video/2019/03/21/celtics-76ers

NBA 2K LEAGUE ANNOUNCES 2019 SCHEDULE

- New NBA 2K League Partner AT&T Named Presenting Partner of

THE BANNER CHAIN Tournament Series -

- 2019 Season Begins on April 2 with THE TIPOFF Airing Live on Twitch at 5 p.m. ET -

NEW YORK, March 19, 2019 – The NBA 2K League today announced the schedule of regular-season matchups and tournaments for the league’s second season, which begins April 2-6 with THE TIPOFF powered by AT&T.  THE TIPOFF, THE TURN, and THE TICKET are the three tournaments that feature all 21 teams competing for banners that link together to form THE BANNER CHAIN powered by AT&T.

This year, each team will play a total of 16 regular-season games, which will now be on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.  All regular-season games will take place at the NBA 2K League Studio Powered by Intel in Long Island City, New York, and will be livestreamed on the league’s Twitch channel.

The 2018 NBA 2K League Champion Knicks Gaming will begin its title defense on Tuesday, April 2 when the team hosts NetsGC in their first-ever NBA 2K League game at 8 p.m. ET.  On Wednesday, April 3, T-Wolves Gaming will make their NBA 2K League debut when they take on Grizz Gaming at 5 p.m. ET.  Hawks Talon GC and Lakers Gaming begin their first seasons on Thursday, April 4, with Atlanta facing off against Pacers Gaming at 6 p.m. ET, and Los Angeles playing Celtics Crossover Gaming at 9 p.m. ET. 

In addition to being named presenting partner of THE BANNER CHAIN, AT&T will create branded content for select NBA 2K League Twitch streams and will also run the “AT&T Game Day Show,” which will air in connection with THE TIPOFF, THE TURN and THE TICKET, the NBA 2K League Playoffs and the NBA 2K League Finals. 

“Being part of the NBA 2K League’s second season is an exciting new opportunity for us as we look to connect with the passion of esports players and fans,” said Shiz Suzuki, assistant vice president of Sponsorships & Experiential Marketing for AT&T Communications.  “Supporting The Game Day Show is another way our official multiyear marketing relationship will allow us to bring the gaming action closer to fans.”   

The weekly matchups during the regular-season will determine playoff seeding.  THE BANNER CHAIN tournaments staggered throughout the season help generate rivalries as teams compete for prize pools and one guaranteed spot in the playoffs for the winner of the final tournament, THE TICKET.  The NBA 2K League will award $1.2 million in prize money throughout the 2019 season, with the largest prize pool reserved for the 2019 NBA 2K League champions.

The 2019 NBA 2K League Playoffs will tip off Wednesday, July 24 and will take place over three days of gameplay.  Each playoff round will be a best-of-three series.  The seven teams with the best regular-season records and the winner of THE TICKET are guaranteed playoff spots.  The playoffs will culminate with the 2019 NBA 2K League Finals on Saturday, August 3, and the Finals will be a best-of-five series.

For more information, fans can follow the NBA 2K League on Twitter (NBA2KLeague), Instagram (nba2kleague), Facebook (NBA 2K League), YouTube (NBA 2K League) and visit NBA2KLeague.com.

JDC BASKETBALL LEAGUE SUB-24

LIGA SUB-24 ABRE INSCRIPCIONES PARA TORNEO FEMENINO

El torneo Sub-24 femenino de JDC Basketball League anunció hoy que las inscripciones para el venidero campeonato 2019 ya están abiertas.

Todo equipo, municipio o liga que desee participar en la temporada tiene que comunicarse con el Sr. César Hernández al (787) 608-4809 en o antes del viernes 31 de mayo.

En la venidera competencia iniciará en junio, pueden participar jóvenes que hayan nacido en o antes del 1995. El costo de franquicia será $1,200 dólares, incluye uniforme.

Las Juanas de la Universidad de Puerto Rico recinto de Mayagüez fueron las campeonas en el 2018 al vencer en el mínimo de dos encuentros a las Tigresas de la Universidad Interamericana.

Jugadoras de la talla y experiencia en el Baloncesto Superior Nacional Femenino como Kiara Quiñones, Madelyn Velázquez, Keiry Huertas, Ashley Torres, Frances Lee Flores, Lyannis Torres y Daneichka Canales fueron algunas de las que participaron en el último torneo.

Para mayor información pueden visitar la página oficial en Facebook: JDC Basketball League.

NBA Digital Launches New 10-Minute Pass for Live Games

10 Minutes of Access to NBA League Pass Available via NBA.com and NBA App for $0.99

NBA Digital, co-managed by the NBA and Turner Sports, today announced the launch of NBA 10-Minute Pass on NBA League Pass beginning Saturday, March 16.  NBA 10-Minute Pass will provide fans the option to purchase 10 minutes of real-time access to live out-of-market NBA games for $0.99 by tapping “Watch” from any game page on NBA.com or within the NBA App.  As part of the new offering, fans can watch as many live games as they choose during the 10-minute window.

“NBA 10-Minute Pass offers unprecedented flexibility for fans to watch live NBA games when it is convenient for them,” said Chris Benyarko, NBA Senior Vice President, Direct to Consumer.  “This new offering on NBA League Pass is an important step toward reaching and engaging the widest possible audience.”

“We’re committed to providing choices within our NBA League Pass product, and this new feature offers even more options for our passionate fans,” said Mark Johnson, SVP/GM Digital, Turner Sports.  “With the launch of this 10-Minute Pass, fans can watch live NBA games on their time.  We’re excited to partner with the NBA as the first major sports league to open up this live digital opportunity.”

At the start of the 2018-19 NBA season, NBA League Pass began offering the ability to purchase a single game from the end of the third quarter to the conclusion of the game for $1.99.  In December 2018, NBA Digital launched quarter-by-quarter pricing on NBA League Pass, giving fans the option to purchase a single game at reduced prices after each quarter.  Single games are available for $6.99, with the option to pay $4.99 at the end of the first quarter and $2.99 at the end of the second quarter. 

#ClutchPUR Mojica decide la victoria de Puerto Rico ante Estrellas del BSN

FBPUR anuncia los 16 jugadores que continúan en la Preselección Sub-17

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO. 13 DE JUNIO DE 2018 — La Federación de Baloncesto de Puerto Rico (FBPUR) reveló hoy, miércoles, los 16 jugadores que continúan en la Preselección Sub-17 de cara a la Copa del Mundo FIBA 2018  de la categoría, que se jugará del 30 de junio al 8 de julio en Argentina. 

La Preselección ahora estará conformada por los jugadores Sebastián Martínez, Víctor Rosa, Diego González, Luis Rolón, Sebastián Astor, André Curbelo, Diego Romero, Phillip Wheeler, Rafael Pinzón, Christian Cruz, Jermaine Miranda, Derek Luna, Harry Sosa, Isaiah Leblanc, Tory San Antonio y Jakob Medina.

“Para el Mundial queremos tener un equipo competitivo ya que nos espera un torneo de alto calibre donde nos enfrentaremos a los mejores equipos del mundo de esta categoría.  Sin embargo, necesitaremos varias sesiones más de entrenamiento antes de realizar el corte final. Este es un grupo muy talentoso por lo que la selección final no será fácil”, dijo Omar González, director del Programa Nacional Juvenil y entrenador del combinado.

Los jugadores que permanecen en la Preselección continuarán mañana con sus entrenamientos comandados por los asistentes Raymond Cintrón y Miguel Torres, a partir de las 12:00 p.m. en la UPR de Arecibo. 

Se espera que el corte final se anuncie la próxima semana en conferencia de prensa.

Puerto Rico fue seleccionado en el Grupo A y comenzará su cita mundialista ante la selección de Turquía, para luego enfrentar a República Dominicana y Australia.

La Selección Nacional partirá el 23 de junio hacia Argentina.

Para más información, visite las redes sociales de la FBPUR y su página www.puertorico.basketball

FBPUR anuncia a las 26 jugadoras de la Preselección Nacional Femenina

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO. 12 DE JUNIO DE 2018 - La Federación de Baloncesto de Puerto Rico (FBPUR) anunció hoy, martes, las 26 jugadoras que fueron convocadas para los entrenamientos de la Preselección Nacional y que buscarán un puesto para los eventos internacionales de este verano.

La lista de la Preselección, que fue realizada por el técnico nacional Gerardo “Jerry” Batista, está encabezada por las integrantes del equipo que consiguió la medalla de bronce y la histórica clasificación a la Copa del Mundo, en el Americup 2017.

“Nos encontramos muy entusiasmados con el grupo de jugadoras que hemos podido reunir para estos compromisos. En la Preselección tenemos atletas experimentadas y otras jóvenes muy talentosas. En adición hemos invitado prospectas del Programa Nacional para que sigan su trabajo de desarrollo para el futuro”, dijo Batista 

La única canastera que no repite es la pívot Angélica Bermúdez, quien tuvo que retirarse del baloncesto por una situación de salud. La estelar armadora Carla Cortijo tampoco figura en el listado tras anunciar la semana pasada su retiro. 

“Tenemos el reto más grande en la historia del baloncesto femenino de nuestro país. Un verano lleno de torneos de suma importancia para nuestro programa. Los Juegos Centroamericanos y del Caribe, el torneo Centrobasket y por primera vez, la oportunidad de competir en un Mundial. Estamos preparados para asumir con mucho respeto este gran reto”, añadió el dirigente.

Puerto Rico irá a la búsqueda de la medalla de oro en los Juegos Centroamericanos y del Caribe que se jugarán en el mes de julio en Barranquilla, así como de uno de los tres boletos al Americup 2019 que otorga el Centrobasket que se llevará a cabo en una sede por anunciarse. 

La cita mundialista, por su parte, tendrá lugar en el mes de septiembre en Tenerife, España.

“Hemos convocado a un selecto grupo de jugadoras para que formen parte de nuestra preselección. Tenemos expectativas muy altas para nuestros compromisos internacionales en los Centroamericanos, Centrobasket y Mundial. Por ello, la FBPUR no ha escatimado en aunar esfuerzos y recursos para que nuestra Selección Femenina vaya preparada a estos compromisos.  Me entusiasma ver a una preselección compuesta por nuestras jugadoras mundialistas junto con una nueva camada de jugadoras que dará mucho de qué hablar.”, expresó la licenciada Yanira Liceaga, vicepresidente de la FBPUR y delegada de la Selección Nacional Femenina.

Los entrenamientos de la Preselección iniciarán este próximo jueves, 14 de junio, a las 7:00 p.m. en la Universidad de Puerto Rico Recinto de Bayamón.

“Mi mayor reto es proveerle a estas guerreras las condiciones óptimas para que puedan dignamente representar a nuestra Isla en las tres competencias internacionales de este año. Serán tres meses y medio de entrenamientos intensos y competencias importantes para lo cual se necesita un presupuesto significativo para cubrir los gastos de pasajes, alojamientos, hotel, estipendios, dietas, vehículos, entre otros”, expresó Juan Flores, gerente general de la Selección Nacional.  

“Exhorto al sector privado a que se una a nosotros a apoyarlas, auspiciarlas y prepararlas como lo que son: mundialistas. El deporte nos une como país y este es el momento de demostrarlo.  Contamos con el apoyo de todos, demostremos lo orgullosos que estamos de nuestro Equipo Nacional de Baloncesto Femenino, nuestras guerreras”, concluyó Flores.

Listado Preselección Nacional 2018:

1. Mari Placido

2. Allison Gibson

3. Ashley Santos

4. Pamela Rosado

5. Tayra Meléndez

6. Michelle González

7. Dayshalee Salamán

8. Paola Crespo

9. Ashley Pérez

10. Jazmon Gwathmey

11. Isalys Quiñones

12. Krystal Luciano

13. Anushka Maldonado

14. India Pagán

15. Claudia Ortiz

16. París Strawther

17. Sofía Roma

18. Yolanda Jones

19. Angelique Rodríguez

20. Gileysa Penzo

21. Itamar Rosado

22. Anniris Quintana

23. Marite Pagan

24. Sibet Castro

25. Kiara Quiñones

26. Annelisse Vargas

FBPUR aprueba proyecto de recalendarización de torneos

Con este proyecto habrá un receso de dos meses de torneos de baloncesto

(10 de mayo de 2018- San Juan, Puerto Rico)  La Federación de Baloncesto de Puerto Rico (FBPUR) anuncia la aprobación del proyecto de recalendarización de los torneos en las categorías menores, incluyendo los de las ligas afiliadas.

El proyecto tiene como objetivo reducir la carga de juegos en los niños, así como tener un orden para el beneficio de los participantes del baloncesto en Puerto Rico.

Con este proyecto, que entre en vigor de inmediato, se jugará baloncesto de enero a octubre. Así, en los meses de noviembre y diciembre no habrá ningún torneo ni federativo ni de ligas afiliadas.

Durante el periodo de receso la Comisión Técnica tiene pautado celebrar diferentes capacitaciones para entrenadores, oficiales de mesa y árbitros. 

La recalendarización de torneos era uno de los principales proyectos del licenciado Yum Ramos durante su término como presidente del ente federativo. 

“Siempre estuvo entre mis proyectos la recalendarización de los torneos de las ligas menores. Yo quería un receso de baloncesto por dos meses y ya es un hecho. Este proyecto le vendrá bien a los niños porque evitará la carga de participación. Para mí es importante, que sean niños y puedan dedicarle tiempo a otras actividades”, expresó Ramos.

El proyecto presentado por la Comisión Técnica fue aprobado por la Junta de Gobierno de la FBPUR durante una reunión celebrada la semana pasada.

#ClutchBaloncesto: Noticias del Baloncesto Boricua y un poquito más....

NBA G LEAGUE USA TO FACE MEXICO NATIONAL TEAM IN

NBA G LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGE PRESENTED BY KUMHO TIRE

AT NBA ALL-STAR 2018 IN LOS ANGELES

– Feb. 18 Game Will Be First International Exhibition at NBA All-Star –

MEXICO CITY, Dec. 9, 2017 – NBA G League USA, a team of top talent from the NBA’s official minor league, will play the Mexico National Team in the NBA G League International Challenge presented by Kumho Tire at NBA All-Star 2018 in Los Angeles.  The first international exhibition game at NBA All-Star will take place on Sunday, Feb. 18 at 4:30 p.m. ET at the Los Angeles Convention Center.  NBA G League President Malcolm Turner and Mexico Basketball Federation General Manager José Reyes Ronfini made the announcement today during a press conference at Arena Ciudad de Mexico. 

The NBA G League International Challenge will replace the traditional NBA G League All-Star Game, which debuted at NBA All-Star 2007 in Las Vegas. 

“We are thrilled to showcase an innovative international exhibition game between top NBA G League players and the Mexico National Team at NBA All-Star,” said Turner.  “This first-of-its-kind event will be an outstanding display of high-quality basketball and spirited competition for our fans around the world to enjoy.”

NBA G League USA players are also expected to compete for USA Basketball in FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Americas Qualifiers against Cuba on Feb. 23 and Puerto Rico on Feb. 26.  Coached by Jeff Van Gundy and his USA Basketball World Cup Qualifying Team staff, NBA G League USA will be selected by the six-member USA Basketball Men’s World Cup Qualifying Committee.  The committee is made up of appointees by USA Basketball and the NBA G League.  The 12-player team will be announced in advance of the game. 

The Mexico National Team is currently 15^th in the FIBA World Ranking and holds a 1-1 record in FIBA World Cup Qualifiers.  The NBA G League International Challenge will help Mexico prepare for its 2019 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers against Puerto Rico on Feb. 23 and Cuba on Feb. 26.    

“It is an honor for Mexican Basketball to partner with the NBA’s official minor league,” said Gilberto Hernandez, President of the Mexico Basketball Federation.  “The exhibition game between the Mexico National Team and the NBA G League USA team is a unique opportunity for the development of our game as well as a great motivation for the young Mexican lovers of this sport who dream of reaching the NBA one day.”

Fans around the world can follow the game on social media on Twitter @nbagleague and @mexbasquet.  Domestic and international broadcast information will be announced at a later date.

Tickets for the NBA G League International Challenge presented by Kumho Tire will be available at a later date.  Fans can log on towww.NBAEvents.com to sign up for news and ticket sales information. 

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Week 8: Dec. 8, 2017 Vol. 72, No. 8 Media Central: Register

NBA News, a newsletter produced by the NBA Communications Group, highlights the latest storylines, key statistics, upcoming events and more from around the league.  WINNING WAYS  The Cavaliers have won 13 straight games since a 5-7 start. (NBAE via Getty Images) Cleveland looks to break the franchise record for longest winning streak tonight against Indiana at Bankers Life Fieldhouse (7 p.m. ET, NBA League Pass). The Cavaliers have won 13 consecutive games, which they also did during the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons. Cleveland’s 13-game winning streak follows Boston’s 16-game winning streak earlier this season. This marks the second time in NBA history that multiple teams have produced winning streaks of 13 or more games within their first 30 games of a season. In 1993-94, Houston and Atlanta had early-season winning streaks of 15 and 14 games, respectively. Here is more information on NBA winning streaks: Longest single-season winning streaks by team Longest single-season winning streaks in NBA history Longest overall winning streaks in NBA history (not limited to a single season) THE NBA ACADEMY LATIN AMERICA The NBA, CONADE (Mexico’s National Commission for Physical Culture and Sport) and the Mexican Basketball Federation have announced their plan to launch The NBA Academy Latin America, an elite basketball training center in Mexico City for the top male and female prospects from throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America and South America. The NBA Academy Latin America, the NBA’s seventh elite training center globally, is scheduled to open this winter. The announcement was made on Thursday before Brooklyn met Oklahoma City as part of the NBA Mexico City Games 2017 presented by Nike. The Nets and Miami will play on Saturday in Mexico City (6 p.m. ET, NBA TV), the 26th game in Mexico since 1992. During Thursday’s press conference, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver discussed the academy as well as the potential of putting an NBA G League franchise in Mexico. A transcript is available in English and Spanish. NBA ON CHRISTMAS DAY The 70th edition of the NBA on Christmas Day is a little more than two weeks away. The league will play five games on Dec. 25 for the 10th consecutive year, with ABC televising three games for the first time and ESPN and TNT airing one game each. For information on this year’s matchups as well as a historical look at memorable games and performances, team records and statistical leaders on Christmas, check out Media Central’s NBA Christmas Day 2017 Guide. GET TO KNOW … FRED VANVLEET  Toronto guard Fred VanVleet is in his second NBA season. (NBAE via Getty Images) Toronto guard Fred VanVleet has helped the Raptors win their last four games and eight of 10. Here are some facts and figures about the 23-year-old VanVleet, who is averaging 6.4 points and 3.1 assists in 16.5 minutes per game in his second season:  Went undrafted in 2016 after a standout career at Wichita State, where he was named the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year as a sophomore and a senior.  His backcourt mate at Wichita State was the New York Knicks’ Ron Baker, who also went undrafted in 2016. They were part of Wichita State’s 2012-13 NCAA Final Four team and the 2013-14 team that went 31-0 in the regular season.  Has notched six double-digit scoring games this season after recording three as a rookie.  Split time between the Raptors and the NBA G League’s Raptors 905 as a rookie.  Scored 28 points and handed out 14 assists in Raptors 905’s championship-clinching Game 3 victory over the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the 2017 NBA G League Finals.  Grew up in Rockford, Ill., home of the Rockford Peaches women’s baseball team that was featured in the 1992 movie A League of the Their Own.  If he weren’t a professional athlete, VanVleet says he would be an entrepreneur. AROUND THE NBA  Houston has opened 11-1 on the road for the first time since the 1996-97 season. Overall, the Rockets have won eight consecutive games and 14 of 15.  Milwaukee forward Giannis Antetokounmpo celebrated his 23rd birthday on Wednesday. He is one of three players in NBA history with at least 5,000 points, 2,000 rebounds and 1,000 assists before turning 23, joining LeBron James and Tracy McGrady.  New Orleans center/forward DeMarcus Cousins is the first player with multiple games of at least 40 points and 20 rebounds in a season since Patrick Ewing in 1989-90.  Golden State forward Kevin Durant’s triple-double in Wednesday’s victory over Charlotte raised his career total to nine, tied with teammate Andre Iguodala and San Antonio center Pau Gasol for the eighth-most among active players.  New York guard/forward Courtney Lee is averaging 16.7 points and shooting 60.8 percent (59-of-97) from the field and 50.0 percent (14-of-28) from three-point range in his last nine games. For the season, Lee is averaging a career-high 13.1 points and shooting personal bests of 49.8 percent from the field and 46.5 percent from three-point range.  Utah rookie guard Donovan Mitchell is averaging 26.1 points on 52.0 percent shooting from the field and 47.5 percent from three-point range in his last seven games. AROUND THE NBA G LEAGUE  Raptors 905 (Toronto Raptors) drew an NBA G League-record 18,900 fans for Tuesday’s game against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (Houston Rockets) at Air Canada Centre.  The Vipers have won 12 consecutive games. The NBA G League’s longest single-season winning streak is 18 games by the Idaho Stampede during the 2007-08 season.  Golden State two-way player Quinn Cook made his first career NBA start on Wednesday, finishing with eight points, three rebounds and three assists in 22 minutesagainst the Hornets.  The Washington Wizards have unveiled the Capital City Go-Go as the name for the team’s NBA G League affiliate, which will begin play next season.

FBPUR reduce listado de la Preselección Nacional a 14 jugadores

El equipo estará participando de la primera ventana de los clasificatorios a la Copa del Mundo

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO. 15 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2017 - La Federación de Baloncesto de Puerto Rico (FBPUR) dio a conocer hoy, miércoles, el listado actualizado de la Preselección Nacional que incluye a 14 jugadores para la primera ventana de los Clasificatorios de las Américas a la Copa del Mundo de Baloncesto FIBA 2019. 

El grupo continúa encabezado en gran parte por jugadores que participaron del FIBA AmeriCup, además, de figuras veteranas que cuentan con experiencia vistiendo la camiseta internacional. 

“A pesar de la difícil situación que atraviesa el país, y que también ha impactado directamente a parte de nuestros jugadores, hemos logrado, con mucho sacrificio aglutinar a 14 jugadores que están comprometidos y dispuestos a darlo todo por Puerto Rico. Además de ser un partido importante, será una oportunidad para ofrecerle alegría a los fanáticos del baloncesto y a todos los puertorriqueños que viven o se están hospedando en Orlando y que esperamos poder saludarles personalmente en la cancha”, expresó el licenciado Yum Ramos, presidente de la FBPUR. 

Del grupo que fue al AmeriCup en Colombia, continúan en la Preselección, los jugadores Carlos Rivera, Ángel Rodríguez, Mike Rosario, Jorge Bryan Díaz, Carlos López, Gilberto Clavell, Emmanuel Andújar y Juan Ramón Rivas. 

Los experimentados jugadores, Ramón Clemente, Guillermo Díaz, David Huertas, Ángel Vassallo y Ricardo Sánchez, también forman parte de la Preselección. Mientras que Devon Collier, que no ha jugado en las pasadas ediciones debido a lesiones, completa el listado preliminar de la escuadra boricua. 

Varios integrantes del combinado boricua junto al cuerpo técnico y directivos de la FBPUR, salieron esta mañana hacia la Florida donde a partir de mañana jueves entrenarán en IMG Academy. 

“Estamos anunciando el corte de 14 jugadores para esta ventana. Nuestros jugadores están listos para aceptar el reto de representar a Puerto Rico en este momento tan trascendental para nuestra patria. Vamos a luchar como equipo, y estoy seguro que daremos lo mejor de nosotros en cada partido. Para ello necesitamos unidad de propósito como colectivo para acercarnos a nuestro objetivo final que es la clasificación al Mundial”, expresó el dirigente del Equipo Nacional, Eddie Casiano. 

En la primera ventana de los Clasificatorios de las Américas, Puerto Rico recibirá a Estados Unidos  el jueves, 23 de noviembre en el CFE Arena de la Universidad de Central Florida, que ubica en Orlando, para luego viajar a la Habana y enfrentar a Cuba el domingo, 26 de noviembre.

Los boletos para el partido en Orlando ya están a la venta en Ticketmaster (http://bit.ly/tixPURvUSA).

El 20% de las ganancias del partido serán donados a Unidos por Puerto Rico, como una aportación de parte de la FBPUR para ayudar en la recuperación y reconstrucción de la Isla.

CHICAGO TO HOST NBA ALL-STAR 2020

CHICAGO, Nov. 10, 2017 – The NBA announced today that Chicago has been selected to host NBA All-Star 2020.  The 69^th annual game will take place at the United Center, home of the six-time NBA champion Chicago Bulls, on Sunday, Feb. 16.  This will mark the third NBA All-Star in Chicago, which held the annual celebration in 1973 and 1988.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver made the announcement during a press conference at the United Center.  He was joined by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Bulls President and Chief Operating Officer Michael Reinsdorf, Bulls Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations John Paxson, Alderman Walter Burnett Jr. (27th Ward) and Chicago Sports Commission Executive Director Kara Bachman. 

“Chicago is an iconic city with a storied basketball history.  We are thrilled to bring the NBA All-Star Game back,” said Silver.  “We thank Mayor Emanuel, Jerry and Michael Reinsdorf and the entire Bulls organization and look forward to an exciting week of activities celebrating the game of basketball.”

Chicago will follow Los Angeles in 2018 and Charlotte in 2019 as All-Star host.  NBA All-Star Game 2017 in New Orleans reached fans in 215 countries and territories in 49 languages. 

“We are honored that the NBA has selected Chicago to host All-Star 2020,” said Michael Reinsdorf.  “Because the game of basketball has such deep roots and a rich history in this city, with some of the most passionate sports fans in the country, we know it will be a successful event for everyone involved.  Our expanded United Center campus and arena renovations with new restaurants and retail will provide visitors the opportunity to enjoy a fan-friendly environment.”

“Chicago is looking forward to hosting NBA All-Star 2020 and welcoming players and fans from across the country and around the world to our great city,” said Emanuel.  “Chicago is a global hub for sports, entertainment and culture.  Bringing the NBA All-Star Game back to the city for the first time in over three decades is a win for our city, our businesses and fans of all ages who will have the chance to be part of one of basketball’s biggest events.” 

In addition to the All-Star Game, the United Center will be the venue for the Rising Stars Challenge – an annual showcase for top rookies and second-year players – on Friday, Feb. 14, as well as State Farm All-Star Saturday Night, which features the Taco Bell Skills Challenge, the JBL Three-Point Contest and the Verizon Slam Dunk.  In 2020, TNT will be televising the All-Star Game in prime time for the 18^th consecutive year, marking Turner Sports’ 35^th year of All-Star coverage.   

The new Wintrust Arena, home of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky starting next season, will host the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game and Rising Stars and All-Star Game practices.  In partnership with the Chicago Sports Commission, the NBA will also hold several events for fans of all ages at venues throughout the city, including Navy Pier.  These events will feature interactive programming that brings fans closer to NBA and WNBA players and legends. 

“It’s a true privilege, as well as a testament to Chicago’s great basketball history, to be selected to host NBA All-Star 2020,” said Bachman.  “Chicago’s dedicated and experienced hoteliers will welcome the NBA and NBA fans in true Midwestern spirit.   NBA fans will have the opportunity to experience the renovated and expanded United Center campus, the brand-new Wintrust Arena and Chicago’s landmark Navy Pier, which will host a variety of events for the local fans.”

During NBA All-Star 2020, the NBA will continue to celebrate its tradition and commitment to social responsibility with a full schedule of NBA Cares events.  Through partnerships with schools, government and local nonprofit organizations in Chicago and surrounding areas, the league will reach thousands of children and families and provide important resources to community-based programs.

NBA ALL-STAR HISTORY IN CHICAGO

Chicago last hosted NBA All-Star in 1988, when the Bulls’ Michael Jordan electrified his hometown crowd at Chicago Stadium.  He outdueled the Atlanta Hawks’ Dominique Wilkins to win a spectacular Slam Dunk Contest, and the next day Jordan scored 40 points to earn MVP honors in the Eastern Conference’s 138-133 victory over the Western Conference in the All-Star Game.  The weekend also featured a third consecutive Three-Point Contest title for the Boston Celtics’ Larry Bird, who famously raised a finger in the air in celebration before his final, competition-clinching shot dropped through the net.  

During the Windy City’s debut as NBA All-Star host, the East defeated the West 104-84 in the 1973 midseason classic at Chicago Stadium.  Boston’s Dave Cowens was named MVP after leading the East with 15 points and 13 rebounds.  Los Angeles Lakers teammates Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West, who combined for 27 All-Star selections, each appeared in an All-Star Game for the last time.

Piratas rumbo a la LDA 2018

Quebradillas, P.R – Los campeones nacionales, Piratas de Quebradillas anuncian que como parte de su preparación para la temporada 2018 del Baloncesto Superior Nacional, están auscultando la posibilidad de participar y ser sede de la Liga de las Américas 2018 (LDA).

“Nos comunicamos ya con Aníbal García, representante de FIBA Américas en Puerto Rico y nos envió parte de la documentación requerida para participar en este torneo”, aseguró el gerente general de los Piratas, Gabriel “Gaby” Miranda Ramos. 

Amistoso en Dominicana 

Adicional, los monarcas estarán planificando unos juegos de exhibición para el mes de marzo del año entrante con los campeones de Republica Dominicana, Metros de Santiago.

“Los juegos con los Metro serán visita y visita, uno aquí en Puerto Rico y otro en Dominicana. Estamos haciendo el acercamiento con César Sainthilair, gerente de los Metros”, comentó Gaby Miranda.

Refuerzos 

El apoderado del equipo de Guajataca, Roberto Roca, se encuentra evaluando jugadores en ligas internacionales y en la NBA como posibles refuerzos para su equipo desde sus oficinas en Orlando, FL. 

“Pronto podríamos estar anunciando la fecha proyectada para el inicio de la pretemporada 2018, donde defenderemos nuestro campeonato”, concluyó Roca   

BALONCESTO SUPERIOR NACIONAL FEMENINO

HABRÁ BSNF EN EL 2018  

La Junta de Directores del Baloncesto Superior Nacional Femenino (BSNF) se reunió esta tarde en Camuy por primera vez después del paso del huracán María por la Isla. 

El cónclave contó con la presencia de los apoderados de Yauco, Aguada, Manatí, Morovis, Carolina e Isabela, los seis equipos que eran parte de la suspendida temporada 2017. 

Luis G. Miranda Ramos, Director General del BSNF, dirigió los trabajos e informó que se estableció tentativamente comenzar un nuevo campeonato en el mes de septiembre de 2018.

“El torneo 2017 fue cancelado. La decisión fue comenzar uno nuevo. Tentativamente para el mes de septiembre”, explicó Miranda Ramos.

Aparte de los cinco conjuntos que participaron de la reunión, el BSNF cuenta con los quintetos que habían recesado en el 2017, Cangrejeras de Santurce e Indias de Mayagüez. Más adelante se espera conocer si estos regresarían para la nueva contienda.  

Para más información del BSNF pueden visitar la página oficial en el Internet a la dirección www.bsnfpr.com, así como todas las plataformas en las redes sociales, Facebook: www.facebook.com/bsnfpr y Twitter: www.twitter.com/bsnfpr.