Month: December 2022

In their recent win versus the Memphis Grizzlies, the Golden State Warriors proved that they are still one of the top-contending teams in the NBA. They beat the young Grizzlies on Christmas Day, 123-109.

Earlier in this blog, we questioned whether the ‘21-’22 NBA champs could keep up with young teams. Dylan Brooks even said, “We’re young, and they’re getting old,” which we thought they could back up once they face each other this regular season.

However, his assumption was wrong. The Warriors easily crushed the Grizzlies, even without Stephen Curry, who is out with a shoulder injury, and Andrew Wiggins.

Throughout their entire match, Ja Morant and his team could not get the lead. They even let the Curry-less Warriors be ahead of as many as 17.

Brooks only had 13 points that game, paired with an assist and three rebounds. He was also inefficient at the three-point line that night, shooting only 17%, or 1-out-of-6.

Meanwhile, Klay Thompson, who previously retaliated to the Grizzlies’ antics, was motivated despite not shooting well. He finished with 24 points, four assists, and nine rebounds in 8-25 shooting.

The most impressive in that game was Jordan Poole. He recorded 32 points, three rebounds, and two dimes.

The bench of the Warriors had a good performance as well. Ty Jerome, Moses Moody, and Anthony Lamb were in double digits, with 14, 10, and 11, respectively.

Donte DiVincenzo also made an impact that night. He not only pestered Ja Morant but also demolished the Grizzlies with his three-point shooting. He had 19 points in 7-12 shooting, chucking five threes in nine attempts.

For the regular season, the score between the two teams is 1-0 in favor of GSW. The Warriors are now 16-18, while the Grizzlies are 20-12.

Thompson vs. Grizzlies

It can be recalled that during the ‘21-’22 regular season, Warrior guard Thompson had beef with Grizzlie wing Brooks. This was after the latter called themselves a “dynasty” after beating the Warriors at home last March and said the same after meeting in the Western semifinals.

The veteran guard taunted Brooks by staring down at him during the final minutes of their match last December 25. At a post-match interview, Thompson clapped back at the Grizzlies’ third-scoring option, describing the team as “premature” to be” called a “dynasty.”

“Man, they were talking about dynasty and all that. You can’t talk dynasty when you haven’t won before. I don’t think people realize how hard that is, the commitment and sacrifice it takes.

“I mean, you’ve got to sacrifice your body. And I thought that was premature to talk, to even mention that word. But they bring the best out of us, and I think we do the same. And even though we don’t like them, got to respect them because they’re a threat.”

Thompson also brushed up with Jaren Jackson for supposedly mocking the Warriors’ motto, “strength in numbers.”

Morant then took a swipe at the NBA champ last week. He said, “Nah, I’m fine in the West,” after being asked which team would give him a problem earning the title.

Luckily, Thompson did not see the interview with the young superstar.

Unbeatable at Home but not on the Road

The Warriors are racking up win after win when they are at home. As of this writing, the GSW has won 13 and only lost only twice.

That is the case whenever they are at the Chase Center. However, the Warriors were awful when on the road, winning only three times out of their 19 away games.

The Curry-led team has now beaten Boston Celtics and the Grizzlies. They also won against Utah Jazz at home, who beat them in an away game.

Whenever they are on the road, they are terrible. GSW only averaged 105.1 points per game (PPG) on the road. At home, they have 113.4 PPG.

The Warriors even had a five-game losing streak on the road.

Conclusion

The Warriors and Grizzlies will still meet three more times in the regular season. So far, GSW has the lead 1-0.

OKBET players have to wait to see who among the two will win in their face-offs in the coming months. Nevertheless, Morant and his team are comfortably in the lead, with the Golden State Warriors lagging.

But in basketball, anything can happen. The Grizzlies might have some teeth and bite back at the much-experienced Golden State Warriors, or they just bark but not bite.

Read: Responsible Gambling Tip: Beware of Illegal Casinos

The Chicago Bulls were supposed to be on track for a high seed in the Eastern Conference and poise for a deep playoff run. They surrounded their two talented scorers—Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan—with excellent playmakers and capable defenders to improve their chances of making the NBA Finals for the first time since 1998.

However, the team is way off the top four with their 13-18 record for the season. Some will point to Lonzo Ball’s injury as one of the main reasons for their on-court struggles. Ball’s absence is significant because he’s their best floor general and one of their top perimeter defenders.

His absence in the playmaking department is painfully visible in the team’s scoring. Only DeRozan, LaVine, and Vucevic consistently score in double digits this season. His defensive impact is easily felt as they allow the 13th-most points in the league.

However, OKBET players who have seen the Bulls play this season understand that the lack of on-court chemistry between LaVine and DeRozan is costing them games. They are both ball-dominant scorers who occupy similar areas of the floor, which causes spacing issues that defenders can take advantage of.

LaVine clears the air that he’s not trying to be the leading cause of their on-court troubles. Talking to The Athletic’s Shams Charania and Darnell Mayberry, he said he’s trying to save the team’s season by leading by example and showing up in important games.

The team has reportedly tried everything to make the pairing work. The two wing stars had one-on-one sitdowns where they tried to sort out their problems. The pressure is also mounting for Billy Donovan to make this pairing work as they did last season.

Lakers Are LaVine’s Favored Destination

However, time may be running out for these Chicago Bulls. Vucevic is increasingly likely going to test free agency, and reports surrounding LaVine and the Bulls aren’t painting an encouraging picture.

There are increasing reports that the guard—who just signed a five-year deal to stay with the Bulls last summer—is looking for a way out. Several teams are interested in his services, but LaVine preferred destination is reportedly the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Purple and Gold are the perfect trade partners for the Bulls. They can get plenty of cap room to make moves in the coming offseason. Russell Westbrook’s contract is expiring in the summer, and the cap they’ll get in return will allow them to build their bench.

LaVine will be joining a team with talented players. He’ll be able to find his shot with LeBron James and Anthony Davis running the show. While the bench needs work, the Lakers can finally compete with this new Big Three.

Read more: Lionel Messi Promises to Extend PSG Run

Gambling is addictive, and if a player acquires certain habits, it will be bad for himself and the people around him. For this blog, we listed the worst traits a gambler should avoid.

Trusting fake websites

“Trust takes years to build but only seconds to be destroyed.” This saying applies not only in life but also to gambling aficionados trying new things.

Because of the popularization of the digital platform, authorized casinos and gambling operators have adapted, adding online services to their arsenal. In turn, shady websites have appeared, like mushrooms during a rainstorm.

Notice the problem that OKBET, an authorized sports betting website, is currently facing. It is licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and is one of the 17 legitimate casinos in the Philippines.

Due to it being part of the few allowed casinos in the country, several websites posing as OKBET are scamming people into believing they are the legitimate ones.

But how do they do that? By imitating the casino’s brand, logo, and market. Moreover, ridiculous promotions are being given to any potential player to entice people to spend money on them.

Most, if not all, of these shady websites, have one agenda in mind—to scam people. Bettors are always at risk of losing their own money and their winnings.

That is why a bad gambling habit is trusting easily. It is best only to invest money in licensed casino operators. In the case of OKBET, only place your bets on their site, www.okbet.com.

Self-control is non-existent

Gambling, like any game, is an activity where time flies fast. No matter the situation, whether you are winning or losing, you are always hooked by the adrenaline of playing games.

If left unchecked, this could escalate and lead to gambling addiction, destroying your life. What is best for a gambler to enjoy the game is to limit the playing time.

Money can always be recovered. If today gives you trouble in winning games, stop and take a step back.

More importantly, learn to limit your spending on games. One of the common mistakes of a gambler is thinking that they have infinite resources, which is not the case for most players.

So put a limit on your gambling money. It would also help prevent addiction and promote self-discipline.

Casinos are fantasylands

Among the bad gambling habits you need to avoid: expecting too much from a casino. Most of the time, Bettors play in hopes of hitting the jackpot. After losing, they will claim that the game is rigged and blame the casino or the game.

It should not be the mindset of a gambler. The possibilities of becoming the grand winner are slim because most casino games are made to benefit the house.

However, becoming a winner is possible as long as you set realistic expectations and have self-control. That way, even if luck is not on your side, you will not feel any regret.

Always playing on the edge

A gambling problem is often associated with a high-risk, high-reward gaming style. A player who is unafraid of losing due to a slight chance of a large payout would result in gambling problems in the future.

It is best to play it safe and bet small. Sometimes, betting smaller wages could lead to more considerable earnings; if you lose, it is only by a few bucks.

It is also important to note that this gaming style can cause gambling addiction. If you or someone you know needs help, there are several treatments and rehabilitation centers for gambling addicts. In the Philippines, PAGCOR offers a self-exclusion program, with the form available for download.

Bankroll management does not exist

People gamble now and then, but not everyone knows how to be responsible. A mistake often committed by players is how they manage their bankroll.

When a bettor refuses to acknowledge that there should always be a plan when playing in a casino, it could quickly put them in a pile of debt.

Conclusion

Bad gambling habits can lead to ruining a person financially and personally. It is best to practice becoming a responsible gambler rather than wait until everything is too late.

Read more: Self-Exclusion: A Responsible Way of Gambling

Many thought Lionel Messi was quickly approaching his career’s twilight only a couple of months ago. He was hopeful that he’ll finally add the World Cup to his already-full trophy case. Still, cautious optimism surrounded talk of his final playing days.

However, a dominant performance in Qatar showed everyone that the Argentine superstar still has plenty of gas left in the tank. Besides celebrating his monumental triumph with his home country, he revealed his intentions to keep playing for Paris Saint-Germain and try to win a Champions League trophy with Les Parisiens.

According to a Goal.com report, La Pulga verbally committed to renewing his contract with the Qatari-owned club 72 hours after winning world football’s most significant trophy at the Lusail Stadium.

This sentiment is a sharp retraction of his thoughts before the World Cup began. At the time, many believed Messi would be open to moving to the MLS after his current two-year contract expires in June. OKBET’s football analysis staff thought David Beckham’s Inter Miami were heavy favorites to get his signature.

There’s no reason for PSG to turn down another year of Messi with his current run of form. He’s the team’s third-best goalscorer, and his seven goals in 13 appearances already eclipsed his overall tally last campaign. He’s also the team’s leading creative force, with ten assists in the league.

The defending Ligue 1 champions are heavy favorites to make a deep run into the knockout stages of the Champions League, with three superstar forwards leading the attack. Neymar and Mbappe will focus on bringing the European Cup to Parc des Princes to get over their disappointing World Cup runs.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi will try to console them by bringing his stellar international form to Europe.

Pep Praises Messi as the Best

Icons and notable figures in the game are pouring their congratulations towards the little magician for finally winning the World Cup. The latest name to honor Messi is Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola.

Guardiola coached Messi and the Blaugrana from 2008 to 2012. Together they won three league titles, two Copas del Rey, two Champions League trophies, and two Club World Cups by the time he left the club for Bayern Munich.

“Everyone has [an] opinion, but nobody can doubt that he’s there with the greatest of all time,” Guardiola told reporters ahead of City’s Carabao Cup clash with Liverpool.

Guardiola coached plenty of top-quality players through his time on the sidelines, from Robert Lewandowski to Erling Haaland. For him to name Lionel Messi as one of the best to kick a football is a testament to the pedigree of talent the Argentine has shown in his career.

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Nick Kyrgios of Australia lost to World No. 28 Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria in the first World Tennis League (WTL) match in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The score was 6-7(5), 3-6.

Novak Djokovic, a Falcons teammate from Serbia who has won 21 grand slam titles, pulled out of the Wimbledon final rematch “because he didn’t feel 100% well enough to play,” so Dimitrov took his place.

Dimitrov’s second win of the day came with World No. 5 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus. They beat 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu of Canada and former No. 3 Doubles Rohan Bopanna of India 2-6, 7-6(4), 10-7.

The Eagles won one match because World No. 4 and WTA Finals champion Carolina Garcia of France beat World No. 13 and 2021 BNP Paribas Masters winner Paula Badosa of Spain, 6-4, 6-3.

Eagles Losses over Coca-cola 

Even though the Eagles lost two games at the Coca-Cola Arena on Day 3, they were still on top of the standings because every round counts in WTL.

Teams get one point for every game they win, and the winning team of the day receives five bonus points for participating in three matches (mixed doubles, singles for women, and singles for men).

Saturday’s final will be between the teams with the most points after the round-robin exhibition games.

Kyrgios said, “It’s always nice to have these extra matches at the end of the season, and the best pre-season you could have is like this.” “I love being part of a team. During the year, you don’t see that very often. It’s cool. It’s something to do.”

Even though he couldn’t play on Wednesday, former World No. 1, Djokovic sat on the bench and cheered for his team. He even danced during a couple of breaks.

The Falcons and Eagles played a thrilling mixed doubles match. And Andreescu and Bopanna won the first set, 6-2, with some clever volley winners.

Dimitrov Defeat Kyrgios

There were no service breaks in the first set of the men’s singles match. And Dimitrov won the tiebreak at 7-6. (5).

After Kyrgios saved three break points, the Bulgarian broke serve to score 4-3. He paused again to win the match, 6-3.

The Kites are made up of WTA World No. 1 Iga Swiatek of Poland. World No. 6 Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada. World No. 11 Holger Rune of Denmark, 2014 Wimbledon finalist Eugenie Bouchard, and former Doubles World No. 1 Sania Mirza of India. The WTL takes place from December 19 to December 24.

The Hawks are the last of the top four teams. They have World No. 12 Alexander Zverev from Germany, 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina from Kazakhstan. 2020 US Open winner Dominic Thiem from Austria, and 2021 runner-up at Roland Garros Anastacia Pavlyuchenkova from Russia.

WTL calls itself “The Greatest Show on Court,” and each night after the tennis matches, an international musical act performs Tisto on Monday, Wizkid on Tuesday, Ne-Yo on Wednesday, deadmau5 on Thursday, Mohamed Ramadan on Friday, and Armin van Buuren on Saturday.

 

Read More: Messi and Alvarez Lead Argentina to World Cup Final Over Croatia

 

The Philippines is lenient regarding gambling as long as Filipinos are responsible gamblers. However, its government is strict regarding the illicit gambling business, both physical and online. Thus it reminds Filipinos to be critical in choosing where to gamble.

To regulate gambling the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) was tasked to regulate and legitimize gambling.

What to Take Note

So far, there are 17 licensed gambling operators in the country. PAGCOR made sure that these authorized betting sites comply with the Know Your Customer verification process to ensure that only qualified players can play.

But because of the meticulous process of PAGCOR, malicious entities found a way to disregard the process — by copying accredited gambling businesses. These fake sites have no regard for the dangers of gambling addiction, which can harm the integrity of the gambling industry.

Among them is OKBET, a local-based sports betting site. It is the current sponsor of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) fourth season, a Pro-Am basketball league.

Since it is a legitimate service provider in the country, it discovered many fake websites disguised as OKBET. These illegitimate sites have copied the platform’s logo, design, and even how it markets its brand.

 

 

The company continues to warn its player base and potential members to be critical of where they play. These fake websites can steal players’ data and identities, which they can use for other scams like identity theft and credit card fraud.

To be sure that you are gambling on the genuine OKBET platform, and be responsible players, visit the official website www.OKBET.com.

What are the Laws, and What to Remember?

Some laws would also penalize and imprison violators. Under the Republic Act No. 9287, those who bet on illegal gambling sites will be punished and will be detained for “thirty (30) days to ninety (90) days” and a penalty of up to P6000.

The law was enacted concerning the declaration of Presidential Decree 1602. It aimed to redefine the games that are considered to be illegal, such as jueteng, masiao, and the last two. Pusoy, Tong-its, and e-sabong.

The Philippines also established an acting central authority called the Anti-Illegal Gambling Board. Its scope of power includes, but is not limited to:

• Assist authorities in enforcing R.A. No. 9287.
• Deputize governors, city mayors, and law enforcement agencies to probe suspected illegal number game operators and players.
• Act as the complainant against criminally-charged violators.
• To come up with strategies and programs to eradicate unlawful gambling.

On the other hand, the Philippine Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) is authorized by R.A. No. 10927 to require locally-based casino business owners to implement risk management policies and a record of their players for at least five years. The AMLC can also probe suspected operators financing insurgencies or money laundering.

The legal age to gamble is 21.

Conclusion

Gambling is allowed in the Philippines, but with limitations. Also, the government cannot entirely abolish casinos or gambling houses because the industry is the third-leading source of revenue for the nation. Unfortunately, illegal gambling operators are still rampant, which could mean one thing: stricter laws in the coming years.

Legitimate gambling sites need help in addressing concerns about credibility. Thus, people are encouraged to be responsible gamblers and not fall for fake websites that offer ridiculous deals.

A responsible gambling tip: patronize legal betting sites and steer from unauthorized websites.

Read: Luis Enrique Booted by Spain after World Cup Loss

The world is celebrating Lionel Messi’s triumph at the FIFA World Cup. He deserved to win it after an incredible showing in Qatar. However, many will argue that the entire tournament was about Kylian Mbappe falling just short of winning back-to-back World Cups.

His performance during the World Cup final against Lionel Messi and Argentina will be discussed in sports bars and online forums for years. He’s achieved plaudits footballers can only dream of at only 23 years of age. Others are already talking about Mbappe sitting at football’s grand table with Messi, Diego Maradona, and Pele.

Moreover, his form for Paris Saint-Germain has been immaculate. Hardly anyone can stop him in Ligue 1, and his goalscoring form in the Champions League has also been prolific. As long as PSG are in the Champions League, they’ll always be among the favorites to win among OKBET’s football specialists.

People naturally ask what is next for the French superstar after playing a significant role in one of the best World Cup finals in history. We’ll look back into recent events involving the French superstar and try to predict what he will do from now on.

Kylian Mbappe’s Legendary World Cup Final

Football fans who haven’t seen the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France should do themselves a favor and find a way to watch the entire game. It was a fantastic finale because it provided the World Cup trophy that has long evaded the Argentine’s career.

However, it’s clear to everyone that Mbappe stole some of Messi’s thunder in the final. His incredible efforts to bring France back into the game mesmerized people into rooting for him. After all, Geoff Hurst was the only other player to bag a hat trick in a World Cup final.

His ability to convert two crucial penalties in a high-pressure environment showed the nerves that would serve him well later in his career. His eight goals and two assists also presented his propensity to his fantastic positioning, finishing, and creativity.

Coming to a Head with PSG

However, Kylian Mbappe’s bright footballing future may not equate to him staying with PSG the entire time.

There has been trouble brewing between Mbappe’s relationship with Les Parisiens. Reports reveal that he’s been frustrated with PSG’s progress in pursuing Champions League glory.

One of the main reasons why he wants out of Paris is that he doesn’t like the way he’s being used at the moment. Currently, he’s the central pivot in a 3-4-2-1, with Messi and Neymar behind him. He prefers playing in a two-striker setup similar to his partnership with Olivier Giroud in France. Unfortunately, the club couldn’t find a suitable strike partner during the last transfer window.

Another reason is his poor relationship with Neymar. The 23-year-old star feels his Brazilian teammate isn’t doing enough to help the team make a deep run to the Champions League final. Fortunately, Messi’s arrival last season helped smooth the rough edges between the two.

His refusal to address persistent rumors of his January exit caused the media to talk about his future at the club consistently. Fans are also anxious about his potential departure. Some are even questioning whether it’s alright for a young player like Mbappe to have this much control over the club.

His dissatisfaction with the side may eventually change if PSG win the Champions League. Their opponents in the first knockout round are tough, but PSG must beat Bayern Munich if they want any shot at keeping the disgruntled star.

Where Will Kylian Mbappe End Up?

Suppose PSG fail to win Europe’s biggest prize this season. In that case, it will be increasingly likely that Kylian Mbappe will force his way out of Paris. Given his current stature in the game, the biggest clubs in the world will be ready to line up for him.

The question now lies in where the mercurial Frenchman will end up. So far, one of the top clubs from England and Spain is the likely destination for his talents.

Real Madrid

Mbappe hasn’t been shy about his admiration for Los Blancos. He grew up as a big Cristiano Ronaldo fan during his peak at the Santiago Bernabeu and is vocal about his love for Real Madrid.

Madrid president Florentino Perez is already licking his chops at the opportunity to sign a star as big as Mbappe. His signing will be a coup for the president, whose reputation was marred by his failure to launch the European Super League.

Chelsea

Chelsea are currently struggling in the Premier League. While Graham Potter has been a capable replacement for Thomas Tuchel, their lack of a potent force up front was easy to notice.

Todd Boehly needs a marquee signing to signify his intentions to the rest of the league, and Mbappe more than fits the bill. He’ll provide instant scoring from the front and immediately bring the London club back to title contention.

Manchester United

Manchester United are doing everything to salvage a season marred with terrible starts and controversial personalities. Now that his idol is out, the Red Devils may look to Mbappe as his heir apparent.

It’s unlikely they’ll be able to mount a serious run for Mbappe, given the uncertainty of the Glazers selling the club. However, imagining Mbappe thriving under Erik ten Hag is an intriguing prospect for even the most cynic United fans.

Liverpool

It may be surprising for some even to see Liverpool among the clubs linked to Kylian Mbappe. After all, they just signed Darwin Nunez this season. The Uruguayan has an excellent start to his Anfield career, bagging four goals in 11 appearances.

However, he’ll likely be moved to the left wing if the Merseyside club manages to pull off such a signing. They’ll be delighted to know he thought of wearing the Liverpool red at least once due to his mother’s love for the club.

Moreover, he’ll have the chance to compete on an even footing with Manchester City and Erling Haaland. I doubt he’ll be able to resist the opportunity to have his version of Ronaldo and Messi’s rivalry with the Norwegian striker.

The World Is at Kylian Mbappe’s Mercy

The world will be rocked the same way Mbappe shocked them during the second half of the World Cup if he decides to leave Parc des Princes. He’s a supreme talent who recently showcased one of the best goalscoring forms in World Cup history.

Wherever Mbappe ends up going, the world will follow his every move. This is Kylian Mbappe’s world; we’re just living in it.

Read more: Enjoy the Holidays with These NBA Christmas Games

On Thursday, the struggling San Antonio Spurs lost 126-117 to the struggling New Orleans Pelicans. CJ McCollum scored a season-high 40 points for the Pelicans in the loss.

The Pelicans, who are third in the Western Conference, won and ended a losing streak of four games. Lithuanian centre Jonas Valanciunas had 16 points and ten rebounds in the win.

The third quarter ended with the Pelicans ahead 94-75. In the fourth quarter, San Antonio scored 42 points, but McCollum’s shooting, which included making 7 of 14 three-point shots, made the difference.

Without critical players like Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and Larry Nance Jr., New Orleans won the game and improved to 19-12.

The Recovery of Pelicans

Williamson is averaging 25.2 points this season and has been on the league’s health and safety list.

Willie Green, the head coach of the Pelicans, said, “It was great to see CJ have a night as he did. His 40 points and nine assists were impressive, and we needed that kind of production from him with so many guys out.”

Green praised McCollum’s work ethic and desire for improvement, and he said that the key now was to do this kind of work more often.

“When he is on the court and scoring like he does and getting his teammates involved, it is beautiful to watch. We need him to do that each night. And we are aware that it won’t always be 40.” he said.

Pelicans vs. Spurs

Jeremy Sochan led the Spurs in scoring with 23 points and nine rebounds.

Malik Beasley scored 25 points, and Jordan Clarkson added 23 as the Utah Jazz beat the Washington Wizards 120-112.

Eleven Wizards’ games (12-21) have ended in defeat. Last 12 games. They beat the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, their only win in that stretch.

At halftime, Washington was ahead 66–60, but they were three points behind going into the fourth quarter.

Nickeil Alexander-26-foot Walker’s three-point jumper gave Utah a 10-point lead, which they kept until the end of the game.

 

Read More: USA Play the 2023 FIBA World Cup Group Stage Games in Manila

Experience is not always the best teacher, and in the case of the Golden State Warriors, they are getting old, with father time catching up to the once-dominant NBA team.

During the recent playoffs, Dylan Brooks of the Memphis Grizzlies mocked Stephen Curry and the GSW core.

“We’re young, and they’re getting old,” Brooks told the reporters following their second-round win against the Warriors. “They know we’re coming every single year.”

The Grizzlies, however, were eliminated in the series with the help of “old” Klay Thomspon, who shot 11-of-22. The younger team, however, brought the GSW into Game 6.

Toward the new NBA season, Brooks’ statement has some truth. Although the Warriors have won the 2021-22 season, they are not currently looking as dominant as they once were.

They have 14 wins and 15 losses and are currently ranked 10th in the Western Conference. If we look at the previous 29 matches of the Warriors, the veterans were beaten by younger, faster, and more explosive teams.

Their recent loss was against the young Indiana Pacers 125-119. Twenty-two-year-old Tyrese Haliburton led the way with 29 points, four rebounds, and six assists. His teammate Bennedict Mathurin, 20, added 24 points, six rebounds, and three assists.

Curry, 34, Draymond Green, 32, and Kavon Looney, 26, were in this game. These players had four championships but were bested by a team whose oldest is 29.

But it might also be a factor that Curry went out during the final minutes of the third quarter due to a shoulder injury.

 

 

It is also important to know that a starless team like Utah Jazz beat them, while the New Orleans Pelicans, with a young star in Zion Williamson, destroyed them 83-128.

However, that is only sometimes the case. GSW won against the young Houston Rockets.

Old and small

The Warriors are not only getting old but also are smaller compared to other NBA teams. Their lack of size may have ranked them 1st in Pace, but it does not help when they are up against tall and agile teams like the Milwaukee Bucks.

The GSW was outboxed and out-styled in that game 128-111. The Bucks easily defended their basket against the offense of the Warriors, having a total of five blocks.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and his team also had 55 rebounds in their matchup against Curry and the rest of the GSW. Forty-three were defensive rebounds (DRB), and the remaining 12 were from offensive rebounding (ORB).

Meanwhile, the Warriors only had 37 rebounds. They only had 25 DRBs and 12 ORBs.

Their recent loss against the Pacers also showed how much they need a big like James Wiseman who can swat shots. Indiana had eight blocks that game compared to GSW’s four.

Final thoughts

Brooks’ statement may seem overconfident at some point, but he is partially correct. The Warriors are indeed getting older, as shown by their current standing.

Furthermore, Nemanja Bjelica, Gary Payton II, and Otto Porter Jr, who contributed much in the past season regarding defense and rebounding, are sorely missed, given the team’s current state.

So if they don’t bring Wiseman back into their lineup, the Warriors will keep losing to younger, taller teams. It will also mean that their chances of getting a two-peat are slimmer, particularly with their core getting older and slower.

The odds at OKBET might still favor Curry and the Warriors. Note, however, that other teams are faring better than the ’22 NBA champs. It might be best to hold your bets on GSW until they show these youngbloods whose boss.

Read: Boxing Champ Manny Pacquiao Sees ‘Potential’ in Jordan Clarkson

This remarkable epic final matchup was full of superstar rivalries, penalties, iconic goals, and goalkeeping masterclasses. When Argentina beat France on penalties, Lionel Messi was crowned world champion.

The piece de resistance, a moment that will stay in people’s minds like an impressionist masterpiece, is that iconic picture of Messi holding the World Cup trophy after being lifted on his teammates’ shoulders.

Two Stars Clashing Together

This game billed as Kylian Mbappé vs. Messi, with the 23-year-old French star ready to take over from his 35-year-old Paris Saint-Germain teammate as the best player in the world.

Mbappé was defending France’s victory in the Russia tournament in 2018. He and Messi were playing the last World Cup match, hoping to win the trophy that has eluded him for so long. He would tie Diego Maradona’s record of winning the 1986 tournament if he did.

Messi was the star of the first 79 minutes. Argentina took the lead when their captain made the penalty kick. Then, his skilful touch was a big part of the move that led to La Albiceleste’s second goal.

Mbappé didn’t want to lose, so he rallied his team and scored a second penalty, giving him a hat trick and sending the final to a penalty shootout.

Mbappé and Messi scored in the shootout, but the Argentina captain surrounded by his teammates as his World Cup dream came true because France missed two penalties.

Good Aims

Goals are hard to come by in World Cup finals, which are often close and tight.

Argentina and France threw out that playbook and scored six goals, with two of the best goals ever.

In Brazil’s 4-1 win over Italy in the 1970 World Cup final, Carlos Alberto scored a stunning goal almost as good as Argentina’s second goal.

In the 35th minute, Alexis Mac Allister flicked the ball around the corner to Messi. It took some pressure off Argentina’s defence as France tried to tie the game.

After Messi’s skilful touch to Julián Alvarez and perfectly weighted pass to Mac Allister. Who had kept running, Argentina was in on goal.

Mac Allister had the good sense to pass the ball to Ángel Di María. Who finished a brilliant counterattack to put Argentina up 2-0.

 

Read More: France will face England in the World Cup Quarterfinals