Forward Kevin Durant took aim at the All-Star Games international contingent, suggesting the World squad led by Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic may not play hard in Sundays showcase. Speaking to reporters, the veteran noted that his own lineup, which includes LeBron James, Stephen Curry (sidelined by a knee injury) and Kawhi Leonard, is not the group that should be questioned about competitiveness.
“You should ask the Europeans and the World team if theyre going to compete,” Durant said. “These two dudes out there, Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic, they dont care about the game at all. These dudes be laying on the floor. Theyre shooting from half court. But youve got to worry about the old heads playing hard?”
Rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama pushed back, vowing to treat the event seriously. “Ive seen the All-Star Game, and obviously it hasnt been competitive,” the Spurs center said. “If I was in there, Im never stepping onto the court to lose or not caring.” Durant remained skeptical, recalling similar promises a year ago and labeling that contest “the worst All-Star Game that people watched.”
Doncic backs NBA Europe concept
Deputy commissioner Mark Tatum confirmed that Luka Doncic has expressed strong interest in the NBAs proposed Europe venture. “We have talked a lot about the concept, and he really, really thinks that its time for the NBA to do something in Europe,” Tatum said.
The Mavericks star recently entered a preliminary agreement to purchase Italian club Vanoli Basket Cremona, with plans to relocate the franchise to Rome and position it for inclusion in NBA Europe.
EuroLeague leadership change may aid talks
Former NBA Europe executive Chus Bueno has been named CEO of the EuroLeague, a move Tatum believes could facilitate cooperation between the two competitions. “Perhaps he can be a bridge between us, FIBA, and the EuroLeague clubs,” the deputy commissioner noted. The NBA hopes to secure commitments from potential investors by the end of March and continues to target 2027 for the leagues launch.
Alize Johnson heads to China
Free-agent forward Alize Johnson has signed a lucrative deal with the Shenzhen Leopards of the Chinese Basketball Association, according to Marc Stein. The five-year NBA veteran appeared in 18 games for Brooklyn in 2020/21, averaging 5.2 points and 5.0 rebounds in 10.5 minutes. Earlier this season, he posted 20.6 points, 12.2 rebounds and 5.8 assists for the G Leagues Iowa Wolves while attempting 3.9 three-pointers per game at a 41.3% clip.
Source: Hoops Rumors
