Former NBA Commissioner David Stern passes at age 77
The NBA’s Commissioner Emeritus David Stern, who served as the NBA’s Commissioner for 30 years (1984-2014), passed away today, according to the NBA. Stern was a hugely influential figure during his 30-year reign and oversaw a tremendous amount of growth for the league. His legacy invades all corners of the NBA, having played a significant role in shaping it into the league it is today.
The Sixers released the following statement on Stern’s passing:
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF NBA COMMISSIONER EMERITUS DAVID STERN:
The Philadelphia 76ers organization mourns the passing of NBA Commissioner Emeritus David Stern.
Mr. Stern helped revolutionize the game of basketball on and off the court. His leadership and innovative approach propelled the NBA to unprecedented growth, benefiting teams, players and fans alike.
He also helped mentor and develop hundreds of the industry’s leading executives, many of whom we are fortunate to now have as part of the Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment family.
Mr. Stern’s impact on the NBA and landscape of sports cannot be understated, and his energy, passion and competitive spirit will be greatly missed.
We offer our sincere condolences to his wife Dianne, their children and family.
Zion Williamson returns to practice
The first report I saw of Zion returning to practice was the following tweet from Oleh Kosel of The Bird Writes:
Walk into practice and Zion is dribbling around in a practice jersey. #ItsHappening pic.twitter.com/44hZ3RLfwr
— Oleh Kosel (@OlehKosel) January 2, 2020
This comes on the heels of Shams Charania’s (The Athletic) report that both the Pelicans and Zion are hopeful for a January debut for the no. 1 overall pick.
“I’m told both sides are hopeful of a January season debut for (Zion) Williamson.”
— Stadium (@Stadium) December 31, 2019
As the calendar shifts to 2020, NBA Insider @ShamsCharania shares the latest on the Pelicans No. 1 pick. pic.twitter.com/uEMBtBocIw
CJ McCollum-Sixers trade speculation
Adrian Wojnarowski did not report that the Sixers are interested in trading for CJ McCollum.
Jonathan Isaac taken off floor on stretcher, but confident MRI will come back clean
In the Orlando Magic’s game against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday, Jonathan Isaac hyper-extended his knee during an awkward collision at the rim:
Jonathan Isaac was taken off the floor on a stretcher after injuring his left knee.
— Bleacher Report NBA (@BR_NBA) January 1, 2020
Hope he's alright. pic.twitter.com/krRC56tj9H
Yeesh, that looked painful. But the good news is this: later on in the locker room, Isaac already started to feel the pain subside and began walking on the knee.
.@OrlandoMagic F Jonathan Isaac is walking and bending his left knee and feels his MRI on Thursday in Orlando will come back clean. He is confident that he avoided a major injury and might not have to miss any time of game action.
— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) January 2, 2020
NBA Scores for January 1, 2020
Orlando Magic 122 @ Washington Wizards 101
Portland Trail Blazers 97 @ New York Knicks 117
Minnesota Timberwolves 104 @ Milwaukee Bucks 106
Phoenix Suns 107 @ Los Angeles Lakers 117