Vishav is an NBA Primary Editor at EssentiallySports. He has worked as a correspondent for almost a decade for some leading dailies, newswires, and magazines. Transitioning from a reporter to an editor, he brings his passion for crafting captivating stories to a new role. He firmly believes that sportswriting transcends mere scores; it's about weaving compelling stories.

Apart from being a correspondent, Vishav also has extensive experience as a mentor, having worked as a visiting faculty at some leading media training institutes. As an editor and a mentor, his goal is not only to continue creating engaging narratives but also to assist and inspire writers to do the same.

Even after over 10 years as a journalist, every moment of it still excites him with new tales to tell every day, new challenges to overcome, and instant rewards or reprimands from the readers for every step of the process. Beyond basketball, Vishav also has a keen interest in other sports like tennis, baseball, football, and soccer. 

When he is not writing or editing, he loves watching sports documentaries and sports biopics or catching up on the Wall Street.

The undisputed maestro of the basketball court, LeBron James, demonstrated his tactical mastership as the LA Lakers found themselves down four games into a losing streak. Saturday’s match-up against OKC Thunder was a ‘game they needed to win,’ and LeBron took the responsibility on his shoulders, returning an outstanding performance. He had 40 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, two steals, and two blocks to lead the Lakers to an overwhelming rout stopping their worrying slump. LEBRON’S CHRISTMAS EVE GAME-PLAN But with the Lakers basking in the glory of victory, LeBron could only look forward to a different bout – a battle not with Celtics, but with Christmas Eve festivities. In a frank locker room interview, LeBron spoke of his priorities in only one way he could. “Two days, Boston. All I care about is Simone’s day off. I can give a damn about Monday. The only thing I care about Monday right now is my daughter waking up and opening her gifts. LeBron continued, That’s it. Don’t even, please don’t even talk to me about Christmas Day right now. Christmas Eve is what I’m looking forward to. I’m ready to get my a** on this couch.” With this lighthearted pronouncement, the intense LeBron James showed his softer side, stressing the need for family and leisure during the holidays. The Lakers-Celtics game, coming soon, is a primary focus of attention. LeBron’s thoughts, though, continue to meander around the comforting pleasures of Christmas Eve. This story is still developing… 

LeBron James shifts focus from Lakers' triumph to Christmas Eve relaxation, prioritizing family and festive joy over Celtics rivalry.

“I’m not the most talented. I’m not the tallest. But I’m not afraid of anyone.”
- Kobe Bryant said this one, reflecting his competitive spirit and fearlessness.
Looking at him gives me the motivation that I, too, can overcome all obstacles
in life. My journey with basketball started very young, leading me here at
EssentiallySports to become an NBA writer. My passion for the sport and writing
come together to offer my readers top-notch stories. I love curating stories
that extend beyond the court, and craft narratives that transcend the hardwood
floor. Every article I write is like a canvas where basketball strategies meet
my emotions, that truly resonate with the readers. My goal here is to craft
content that is unforgettable and to pay tribute to the legend that Bryant is!

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NBA: In Season Tournament-New Orleans Pelicans at Los Angeles Lakers

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“Get My A** On This Couch”: LeBron James Keeps Celtics Rivalry Away From Festivities With Hilarious Christmas Eve Plan

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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;font-weight: normal">The Boston Celtics, founded in 1946 as one of the NBA's original clubs, have a long and illustrious basketball history. They are a formidable power in the league, participating in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference and based in Boston. The Celtics play their home games in the TD Garden, which they share with the NHL's Boston Bruins. Their illustrious history is highlighted by 17 NBA titles, a number shared only with their archrivals, the Los Angeles Lakers. The Celtics are an enduring force in the world of professional basketball, with the most wins in NBA history.</span>
<h2><strong>Boston Celtics in a Glimpse</strong></h2>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Conference</strong></td>
<td>Eastern</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Division</strong></td>
<td>Atlantic</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Location</strong></td>
<td>Boston, Massachusetts</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Team Colours</strong></td>
<td>
Green, white, black, gold, brown</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Ownership </strong></td>
<td>Wyc Grousbeck</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Affiliation</strong></td>
<td>Maine Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Championships </strong></td>
<td>SEVENTEEN (1957, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976, 1981, 1984, 1986, 2008)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Conference Titles</strong></td>
<td>TEN (1974, 1976, 1981, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 2008, 2010)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Division Titles</strong></td>
<td> THIRTY-ONE (1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1991, 1992, 2005, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2017)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong>Read More: <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-legends-basketball-news-dropping-three-point-shots-over-jayson-tatum-and-co-celtics-veterans-one-v-one-battle-hits-kevin-garnett-with-nostalgia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dropping 3-Point Shots Over Jayson Tatum and Co., Celtics Veterans’ 1v1 Battle Hits Kevin Garnett With Nostalgia</a></strong>
<h2><span style="font-weight: normal">History of Celtics throughout the years</span></h2>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;font-weight: normal">In 1946, the Boston Celtics was one of the founding teams in the Basketball Association of America (BAA). They encountered a number of difficulties in grabbing the city's interest, as baseball and hockey dominated it. However, in their first home game in 1946, Chuck Connors, afterward known as "The Rifleman," broke a backboard with a slam dunk, generating excitement. In 1949/50, the BAA developed into the National Basketball Association (NBA). With the hire of great coach Arnold "Red" Auerbach in 1950, the Celtics went on a historic journey, launching their illustrious sports heritage.</span>
<h2><span style="font-weight: normal">1950s to 1990s</span></h2>
From the 1950s to the 1990s, the Boston Celtics' history is one of NBA domination, memorable rivalries, and great players. It all started in the late 1950s, when coach Red Auerbach arranged for the acquisition of the renowned Bill Russell in 1956. Russell, along with other talents such as Bob Cousy, led the Celtics to their first NBA title in 1957. This signalled the start of an unprecedented period of success. Russell helped the Celtics become a dynasty, winning eight straight NBA championships from 1959 through 1966. A tremendous supporting cast of future Hall of Famers, including John Havlicek, Tom Heinsohn, K. C. Jones, Sam Jones, Satch Sanders, and Bill Sharman, helped to cement the team's history.

Following Russell's retirement in 1969, the Celtics went through a rebuilding phase before making a comeback in the mid-1970s. They won titles in 1974 and 1976 under the leadership of talents such as Dave Cowens, John Havlicek, and Jo Jo White. The Celtics recovered their dominance in the 1980s, reigniting their rivalry with the Los Angeles Lakers, led by Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The Celtics' "Big Three" of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish won titles in 1981, 1984, and 1986. Their dramatic clashes with the Lakers, including a spectacular victory in the 1984 Finals, are in the annals of NBA history.

The Celtics-Lakers rivalry, with Larry Bird and Magic Johnson at the helm, became one of sports' most memorable rivalries. The two teams met in the NBA Finals a record 12 times, with the Celtics winning nine of those meetings. Furthermore, the Celtics have produced four NBA Most Valuable Players (MVPs), for a total of ten MVP trophies, solidifying their position as an NBA superpower. The nickname "Celtics," as well as the mascot "Lucky the Leprechaun," pay reference to Boston's rich Irish heritage and the Original Celtics, a notable team prior to the NBA. From the 1950s to the 1990s, the Boston Celtics' history is one of excellence, famous players, and unforgettable rivalries that have left an everlasting stamp on the NBA.

[caption id="attachment_2181179" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-2181179 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1030513219h.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1346" /> US PRESSWIRE Sports Archive Unknown date Los Angeles, CA, USA FILE PHOTO Los Angeles Lakers center Wilt Chamberlain 13 battles for a rebound in front of Boston Celtics center Bill Russell 6 at the Forum. Los Angeles California UNITED STATES, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xDarrylxNorenberg-USAxTODAYxSportsx 4054563[/caption]

<strong>Read More: <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-legends-basketball-news-despite-preseason-failure-victor-wembanyamas-ruthless-flair-against-okc-leaves-forty-seven-yo-celtics-legend-with-thrilling-rush/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Despite Preseason Failure, Victor Wembanyama’s Ruthless Flair Against OKC Leaves 47YO Celtics Legend With Thrilling Rush</a></strong>
<h2>Mid 1990s to 2013</h2>
From the 1990s to 2013, the Boston Celtics had a rollercoaster journey filled with highs and lows, famous players, and huge transformations. The Celtics suffered a shift in the early 1990s, as important players including as Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish retired or moved on, signaling the end of the original "Big Three" era. The squad experienced difficulties, and Reggie Lewis, a bright young star, tragically died as a result of heart problems, complicating matters even further. The Celtics hired M. L. Carr as vice president of basketball operations in the mid-1990s while they went through a rebuilding phase. In 1995, the team relocated from the Boston Garden to the Fleet Center (later TD Garden) and struggled to make the playoffs.

Rick Pitino was named president, director of basketball operations, and head coach of the team in 1997, bringing with him tremendous expectations. The Celtics drafted young players such as Chauncey Billups and Ron Mercer, but despite their efforts, the team was unable to achieve the required level of success. A combination of seasoned veterans and hopeful newcomers characterized the late 1990s and early 2000s. Notably, Paul Pierce was drafted in 1998 and immediately showed potential, but the Celtics failed under Pitino's direction. With Pitino's retirement, Jim O'Brien took over as coach, and the team improved slightly. Although Paul Pierce developed into an NBA superstar, the Celtics still faced obstacles to success.

When the team recruited Danny Ainge as general manager, he oversaw the formation of a new "Big Three" consisting of Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett. The 2007-08 season featured a spectacular turnaround, with the squad improving by 42 games over the previous season. The Celtics went on to win their 17th NBA championship in 2008, reigniting their glory days. The next seasons witnessed a mix of success, playoff appearances, and Rajon Rondo's rise as a standout player. The departure of important players like Ray Allen, as well as subsequent injuries, tested the Celtics' stability, but the club remained competitive.
<h2>2013 to present</h2>
From 2013 until the present, the Boston Celtics have gone through considerable changes and endured numerous hardships, all while being a competitive NBA organization. The Celtics shifted from the "Big Three" era to Brad Stevens as head coach in 2013, prioritizing player development and laying a solid basis for the future. The franchise launched a youth movement by dealing established players such as Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for future draft picks and new talent. Brad Stevens took over as head coach, emphasizing player development and bringing in talented players like Marcus Smart, Jaylen Brown, and Jayson Tatum. The new "Big Three" lineup included Irving, Horford, and Tatum.

[caption id="attachment_1375361" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-1375361 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2022-12-06T040702Z_1635917323_MT1USATODAY19571790_RTRMADP_3_NBA-BOSTON-CELTICS-AT-TORONTO-RAPTORS.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1386" /> Dec 5, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) dribbles the ball up court against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

The Celtics made the playoffs in 2017-18, finishing as the top seed in the Eastern Conference. However, they were defeated in the Eastern Conference Finals by the Cleveland Cavaliers, therefore ruining their title chances. The Celtics endured injuries and performance swings in the following seasons. Brad Stevens will take over as President of Basketball Operations in 2021, succeeding Danny Ainge, who is retiring. He oversaw a number of roster changes, including the acquisition of Al Horford and the selection of new players.

The Celtics reached the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010, but were defeated in six games by the Golden State Warriors. To form their roster, the team made numerous major transactions, including trading Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies and obtaining Kristaps Porzingis. The Celtics are competitive in the Eastern Conference as of 2023, thanks to a mix of young talent, seasoned veterans, and a new front staff under Brad Stevens.

<strong>Read More: <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/chosen-as-second-option-after-dirk-nowitzki-celtics-legends-fear-of-getting-traded-ended-up-becoming-a-boon/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chosen as ‘Second Option’ After Dirk Nowitzki, Celtics Legend’s Fear of Getting Traded Ended Up Becoming a Boon</a></strong>
<h2>Ownership of the New York Knicks</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>The owner of Boston Garden-Arena Corporation from 1946 to 1950 was Walter A. Brown/Lou Pieri.</li>
 	<li>Lou Pieri and Marjorie Brown, wife of the team’s founder, were the team's owners from 1964 to 1965.</li>
 	<li>Marvin Kratter/ Knickerbocker Brewing Company owned the team from 1965 to 1968,</li>
 	<li>Ballantine Brewery owned the team from 1968 to 1972.</li>
 	<li>Trans-National Communications owned the team from 1969 to 1971,</li>
 	<li>Robert Schmertz/ Leisure Technology owned the team from 1972 to 1975.</li>
 	<li>John Y. Brown, Jr. and Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. were owners from 1978 to 1983,</li>
 	<li>Paul Gaston owned the team from 1983 to 2002.</li>
 	<li>Boston Basketball Partners L.L.C. has been in operation since December 2002.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Overall Stats of the Knicks (2022-23)</h2>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>OVERALL</strong></td>
<td width="55"><strong>2022-23</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GP</td>
<td width="55">82</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MIN</td>
<td width="55">48.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PTS</td>
<td width="55">117.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FGM</td>
<td width="55">42.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FGA</td>
<td width="55">88.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FG%</td>
<td width="55">47.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3PM</td>
<td width="55">16.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3PA</td>
<td width="55">42.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3P%</td>
<td width="55">37.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FTM</td>
<td width="55">17.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FTA</td>
<td width="55">21.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FT%</td>
<td width="55">81.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OREB</td>
<td width="55">9.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DREB</td>
<td width="55">35.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>REB</td>
<td width="55">45.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AST</td>
<td width="55">26.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TOV</td>
<td width="55">13.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>STL</td>
<td width="55">6.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BLK</td>
<td width="55">5.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PF</td>
<td width="55">18.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The New York Knicks Roster
<ol>
 	<li>G 45    Banton, Dalano</li>
 	<li>F 12     Brissett, Oshae</li>
 	<li>G/F      7          Brown, Jaylen</li>
 	<li>G         20        Davison, JD (TW)</li>
 	<li>F          13        Gabriel, Wenyen</li>
 	<li>F          30        Hauser, Sam</li>
 	<li>G         4          Holiday, Jrue</li>
 	<li>F/C      42        Horford, Al</li>
 	<li>C         40        Kornet, Luke</li>
 	<li>G/F      50        Mykhailiuk, Sviatoslav</li>
 	<li>F/C      8          Porzingis, Kristaps</li>
 	<li>G         11        Pritchard, Payton</li>
 	<li>C         88        Queta, Neemias (TW)</li>
 	<li>G         55        Scrubb, Jay Injured (TW)</li>
 	<li>F          77        Stevens, Lamar</li>
 	<li>G         26        Steward, DJ</li>
 	<li>F          0          Tatum, Jayson</li>
 	<li>G         27        Walsh, Jordan</li>
 	<li>G         9          White, Derrick</li>
</ol>
<h2>Top-paid players of the New York Knicks</h2>
<h4><strong>PG Jrue Holiday $36,861,707</strong></h4>
<ul>
 	<li>Contract: 4 years, $134,997,333</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>PF Kristaps Porzingis $36,016,200</strong></h4>
<ul>
 	<li>Contract: 5 years, $158,253,000</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>PF Jayson Tatum $32,600,060</strong></h4>
<ul>
 	<li>Contract: 5 years, $163,000,300</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>SF Jaylen Brown  $31,830,357   </strong></h4>
<ul>
 	<li>Contract: 4 years, <strong>$$106,333,334</strong></li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>PG Derrick White $18,357,143</strong></h4>
<ul>
 	<li>Contract: 4 years, <strong>$70,000,000</strong></li>
</ul>
<h2>Official Handles and Team Information</h2>
<table width="462">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Website</strong></td>
<td><a href="https://www.nba.com/celtics/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Celtics.com</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Official Instagram handle</strong></td>
<td><a href="https://www.instagram.com/celtics/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Official Twitter handle</strong></td>
<td><a href="https://twitter.com/celtics?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics X</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Official YouTube handle</strong></td>
<td><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMfT9dr6xC_RIWoA9hI0meQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtic YouTube</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Arena</strong></td>
<td>TD Garden</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>First Knicks game in Arena</strong></td>
<td>November 17, 1928</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

Boston Celtics 2023

The Boston Celtics, founded in 1946 as one of the NBA&#8217;s original clubs, have a long and illustrious basketball history. They are a formidable power in the league, participating in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference and based in Boston. The Celtics play their home games in the TD Garden, which they share with the NHL&#8217;s Boston Bruins. Their illustrious history is highlighted by 17 NBA titles, a number shared only with their archrivals, the Los Angeles Lakers. The Celtics are an enduring force in the world of professional basketball, with the most wins in NBA history. Boston Celtics in a Glimpse  Conference Eastern  Division Atlantic  Location Boston, Massachusetts  Team Colours Green, white, black, gold, brown  Ownership  Wyc Grousbeck  Affiliation Maine Celtics  Championships  SEVENTEEN (1957, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976, 1981, 1984, 1986, 2008)  Conference Titles TEN (1974, 1976, 1981, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 2008, 2010)  Division Titles  THIRTY-ONE (1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1991, 1992, 2005, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2017)  Read More: Dropping 3-Point Shots Over Jayson Tatum and Co., Celtics Veterans’ 1v1 Battle Hits Kevin Garnett With Nostalgia History of Celtics throughout the years In 1946, the Boston Celtics was one of the founding teams in the Basketball Association of America (BAA). They encountered a number of difficulties in grabbing the city&#8217;s interest, as baseball and hockey dominated it. However, in their first home game in 1946, Chuck Connors, afterward known as &#8220;The Rifleman,&#8221; broke a backboard with a slam dunk, generating excitement. In 1949/50, the BAA developed into the National Basketball Association (NBA). With the hire of great coach Arnold &#8220;Red&#8221; Auerbach in 1950, the Celtics went on a historic journey, launching their illustrious sports heritage. 1950s to 1990s From the 1950s to the 1990s, the Boston Celtics&#8217; history is one of NBA domination, memorable rivalries, and great players. It all started in the late 1950s, when coach Red Auerbach arranged for the acquisition of the renowned Bill Russell in 1956. Russell, along with other talents such as Bob Cousy, led the Celtics to their first NBA title in 1957. This signalled the start of an unprecedented period of success. Russell helped the Celtics become a dynasty, winning eight straight NBA championships from 1959 through 1966. A tremendous supporting cast of future Hall of Famers, including John Havlicek, Tom Heinsohn, K. C. Jones, Sam Jones, Satch Sanders, and Bill Sharman, helped to cement the team&#8217;s history. Following Russell&#8217;s retirement in 1969, the Celtics went through a rebuilding phase before making a comeback in the mid-1970s. They won titles in 1974 and 1976 under the leadership of talents such as Dave Cowens, John Havlicek, and Jo Jo White. The Celtics recovered their dominance in the 1980s, reigniting their rivalry with the Los Angeles Lakers, led by Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The Celtics&#8217; &#8220;Big Three&#8221; of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish won titles in 1981, 1984, and 1986. Their dramatic clashes with the Lakers, including a spectacular victory in the 1984 Finals, are in the annals of NBA history. The Celtics-Lakers rivalry, with Larry Bird and Magic Johnson at the helm, became one of sports&#8217; most memorable rivalries. The two teams met in the NBA Finals a record 12 times, with the Celtics winning nine of those meetings. Furthermore, the Celtics have produced four NBA Most Valuable Players (MVPs), for a total of ten MVP trophies, solidifying their position as an NBA superpower. The nickname &#8220;Celtics,&#8221; as well as the mascot &#8220;Lucky the Leprechaun,&#8221; pay reference to Boston&#8217;s rich Irish heritage and the Original Celtics, a notable team prior to the NBA. From the 1950s to the 1990s, the Boston Celtics&#8217; history is one of excellence, famous players, and unforgettable rivalries that have left an everlasting stamp on the NBA. US PRESSWIRE Sports Archive Unknown date Los Angeles, CA, USA FILE PHOTO Los Angeles Lakers center Wilt Chamberlain 13 battles for a rebound in front of Boston Celtics center Bill Russell 6 at the Forum. Los Angeles California UNITED STATES, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xDarrylxNorenberg-USAxTODAYxSportsx 4054563 Read More: Despite Preseason Failure, Victor Wembanyama’s Ruthless Flair Against OKC Leaves 47YO Celtics Legend With Thrilling Rush Mid 1990s to 2013 From the 1990s to 2013, the Boston Celtics had a rollercoaster journey filled with highs and lows, famous players, and huge transformations. The Celtics suffered a shift in the early 1990s, as important players including as Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish retired or moved on, signaling the end of the original &#8220;Big Three&#8221; era. The squad experienced difficulties, and Reggie Lewis, a bright young star, tragically died as a result of heart problems, complicating matters even further. The Celtics hired M. L. Carr as vice president of basketball operations in the mid-1990s while they went through a rebuilding phase. In 1995, the team relocated from the Boston Garden to the Fleet Center (later TD Garden) and struggled to make the playoffs. Rick Pitino was named president, director of basketball operations, and head coach of the team in 1997, bringing with him tremendous expectations. The Celtics drafted young players such as Chauncey Billups and Ron Mercer, but despite their efforts, the team was unable to achieve the required level of success. A combination of seasoned veterans and hopeful newcomers characterized the late 1990s and early 2000s. Notably, Paul Pierce was drafted in 1998 and immediately showed potential, but the Celtics failed under Pitino&#8217;s direction. With Pitino&#8217;s retirement, Jim O&#8217;Brien took over as coach, and the team improved slightly. Although Paul Pierce developed into an NBA superstar, the Celtics still faced obstacles to success. When the team recruited Danny Ainge as general manager, he oversaw the formation of a new &#8220;Big Three&#8221; consisting of Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett. The 2007-08 season featured a spectacular turnaround, with the squad improving by 42 games over the previous season. The Celtics went on to win their 17th NBA championship in 2008, reigniting their glory days. The next seasons witnessed a mix of success, playoff appearances, and Rajon Rondo&#8217;s rise as a standout player. The departure of important players like Ray Allen, as well as subsequent injuries, tested the Celtics&#8217; stability, but the club remained competitive. 2013 to present From 2013 until the present, the Boston Celtics have gone through considerable changes and endured numerous hardships, all while being a competitive NBA organization. The Celtics shifted from the &#8220;Big Three&#8221; era to Brad Stevens as head coach in 2013, prioritizing player development and laying a solid basis for the future. The franchise launched a youth movement by dealing established players such as Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for future draft picks and new talent. Brad Stevens took over as head coach, emphasizing player development and bringing in talented players like Marcus Smart, Jaylen Brown, and Jayson Tatum. The new &#8220;Big Three&#8221; lineup included Irving, Horford, and Tatum. Dec 5, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) dribbles the ball up court against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports The Celtics made the playoffs in 2017-18, finishing as the top seed in the Eastern Conference. However, they were defeated in the Eastern Conference Finals by the Cleveland Cavaliers, therefore ruining their title chances. The Celtics endured injuries and performance swings in the following seasons. Brad Stevens will take over as President of Basketball Operations in 2021, succeeding Danny Ainge, who is retiring. He oversaw a number of roster changes, including the acquisition of Al Horford and the selection of new players. The Celtics reached the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010, but were defeated in six games by the Golden State Warriors. To form their roster, the team made numerous major transactions, including trading Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies and obtaining Kristaps Porzingis. The Celtics are competitive in the Eastern Conference as of 2023, thanks to a mix of young talent, seasoned veterans, and a new front staff under Brad Stevens. Read More: Chosen as ‘Second Option’ After Dirk Nowitzki, Celtics Legend’s Fear of Getting Traded Ended Up Becoming a Boon Ownership of the New York Knicks The owner of Boston Garden-Arena Corporation from 1946 to 1950 was Walter A. Brown/Lou Pieri. Lou Pieri and Marjorie Brown, wife of the team’s founder, were the team&#8217;s owners from 1964 to 1965. Marvin Kratter/ Knickerbocker Brewing Company owned the team from 1965 to 1968, Ballantine Brewery owned the team from 1968 to 1972. Trans-National Communications owned the team from 1969 to 1971, Robert Schmertz/ Leisure Technology owned the team from 1972 to 1975. John Y. Brown, Jr. and Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. were owners from 1978 to 1983, Paul Gaston owned the team from 1983 to 2002. Boston Basketball Partners L.L.C. has been in operation since December 2002. Overall Stats of the Knicks (2022-23)  OVERALL 2022-23  GP 82  MIN 48.7  PTS 117.9  FGM 42.2  FGA 88.8  FG% 47.5  3PM 16.0  3PA 42.6  3P% 37.7  FTM 17.5  FTA 21.6  FT% 81.2  OREB 9.7  DREB 35.6  REB 45.3  AST 26.7  TOV 13.4  STL 6.4  BLK 5.2  PF 18.8  The New York Knicks Roster G 45    Banton, Dalano F 12     Brissett, Oshae G/F      7          Brown, Jaylen G         20        Davison, JD (TW) F          13        Gabriel, Wenyen F          30        Hauser, Sam G         4          Holiday, Jrue F/C      42        Horford, Al C         40        Kornet, Luke G/F      50        Mykhailiuk, Sviatoslav F/C      8          Porzingis, Kristaps G         11        Pritchard, Payton C         88        Queta, Neemias (TW) G         55        Scrubb, Jay Injured (TW) F          77        Stevens, Lamar G         26        Steward, DJ F          0          Tatum, Jayson G         27        Walsh, Jordan G         9          White, Derrick Top-paid players of the New York Knicks PG Jrue Holiday $36,861,707 Contract: 4 years, $134,997,333 PF Kristaps Porzingis $36,016,200 Contract: 5 years, $158,253,000 PF Jayson Tatum $32,600,060 Contract: 5 years, $163,000,300 SF Jaylen Brown  $31,830,357    Contract: 4 years, $$106,333,334 PG Derrick White $18,357,143 Contract: 4 years, $70,000,000 Official Handles and Team Information  Website Celtics.com  Official Instagram handle Boston Celtics  Official Twitter handle Boston Celtics X  Official YouTube handle Boston Celtic YouTube  Arena TD Garden  First Knicks game in Arena November 17, 1928  &nbsp;

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LeBron James

Who is LeBron James? LeBron James is widely considered to be one of the greatest to ever play the game of basketball. Born in Akron, James spent the majority of his professional career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers, winning multiple NBA championships and earning numerous accolades along the way. Dec 7, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA In Season Tournament Semifinal at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports &nbsp; Known for his exceptional all-around game, James is a four-time MVP and has been selected to the All-Star team a record 18 times. LeBron James&#8217; early life LeBron James was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio. James started playing basketball at a young age, showing great potential. He soon became one of the best high school basketball players in the country. James graduated from St. Vincent&#8217;s St. Mary High School and declared for the NBA draft in 2003. James led St. Vincent&#8217;s St. Mary to three state championships in four years. With Keith Dambrot and Dru Joyce II coaching the side for two years each, the Fighting Irish had a record of 101 victories and 6 losses during James&#8217; time. LeBron James&#8217; wife and children LeBron James was raised by his mother Gloria James, who struggled to make ends meet as a single mother. Not much is known about James&#8217; biological father Anthony McClelland, who was largely absent from LeBron&#8217;s life during his childhood. He is also reported to have criminal records to his name. James has been in a relationship with his high school sweetheart Savannah since his teenage years. The couple tied the knot on September 14, 2013. Savannah James has indulged in several business ventures over the years and is also a noted philanthropist. She has also established a mentorship program for young women. LeBron and Savannah have three children together: Bronny, Bryce, and Zhuri James. Both Bronny and Bryce are following in their father&#8217;s footsteps to become basketball stars. In December 2023, Bronny made his long-awaited collegiate debut with the USC Trojans, less than five months after suffering cardiac arrest in July. LeBron James&#8217; net worth 2024 LeBron James has an estimated net worth of $1 billion, according to recent reports. James is the first active NBA star to achieve this feat. The four-time NBA champion signed a two-year $97.1 million contract extension with theÂ Los Angeles Lakers last year. As per reports, James has earned around $387 million in salaries in his 20-year NBA career so far. Furthermore, he has also made a fortune with his endorsement deals and investments, which have helped him build his massive business empire. LeBron James&#8217; NBA career timeline TheÂ Cleveland Cavaliers selected hometown boy LeBron James as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft. James was a superstar straight out of high school and took the league by storm. He played for the Cavaliers from 2003 to 2010 in his first stint and won MVP awards in 2009 and 2010. Even though the Akron Hammer was almost unstoppable on the court and won many individual accolades, team success was hard to come by. Bilder des Tages &#8211; SPORT NBA Playoffs, Cleveland Cavaliers &#8211; Indiana Pacers April 25, 2018 &#8211; Cleveland, OH, USA &#8211; The Cleveland Cavaliers LeBron James celebrates a basket and foul in the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland. The Cleveland Cavaliers won, 98-95, for a 3-2 lead in the first-round NBA Basketball Herren USA playoff series. Game 5: Indiana at Cleveland &#8211; ZUMAm67_ 20180425_zaf_m67_043 Copyright: xLeahxKlafczynskix James then left the Cavs and took his talents to theÂ Miami Heat in 2010. He received major backlash from Cavs fans after this move. However, he continued his dominance, alongside superstars Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh for the Heat, and clinched his first NBA title in 2012, followed by another in 2013. He also won the NBA MVP award and the Finals MVP award in 2012 and 2013. The estranged son then returned to the Cavaliers in 2014 and took the team to four straight NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors. He helped the Cavs win their first-ever NBA title in 2016. James once again left the Cavs, this time to join the Los Angeles Lakers, in 2018 and led them to the 2020 NBA title.Â  Following the retirements of Udonis Haslem and Andre Iguodala, LeBron James is currently the oldest player in the league. On the 21st of November 2023, James became the first player in league history to reach 39,000 career points. Six days later, he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar&#8217;s record of 66,300 minutes to become the player with the most minutes played in NBA games during the regular season and playoffs. LeBron James contracts Here&#8217;s a breakdown of LeBron James&#8217; contracts and earnings throughout his NBA career:  Year Team Salary    2023-24 Los Angeles Lakers $47,607,350  2022-23 Los Angeles Lakers $44,474,988  2021-22 Los Angeles Lakers $41,180,544  2020-21 Los Angeles Lakers $39,219,566  2019/20 Los Angeles Lakers $37,436,858 ($37,678,600*)  2018/19 Los Angeles Lakers $35,654,150 ($36,475,929*)  2017/18 Cleveland Cavaliers $33,285,709 ($35,030,744*)  2016/17 Cleveland Cavaliers $30,963,450 ($33,119,038*)  2015/16 Cleveland Cavaliers $22,970,500 ($24,814,681*)  2014/15 Cleveland Cavaliers $20,644,400 ($22,329,434*)  2013/14 Miami Heat $19,067,500 ($21,051,220*)  2012/13 Miami Heat $17,545,000 ($19,710,161*)  2011/12 Miami Heat $16,022,500 ($18,299,290*)  2010/11 Miami Heat $14,500,000 ($17,149,801*)  2009/10 Cleveland Cavaliers $15,779,912 ($18,860,203*)  2008/09 Cleveland Cavaliers $14,410,581 ($16,977,833*)  2007/08 Cleveland Cavaliers $13,041,250 ($16,136,130*)  2006/07 Cleveland Cavaliers $5,828,090 ($7,404,948*)  2005/06 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,621,800 ($6,125,892*)  2004/05 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,320,360 ($5,871,248*)  2003/04 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,018,920 ($5,639,986*)   &nbsp; LeBron James&#8217; NBA career stats Regular season games played &#8211; 1467 Regular season points per game &#8211; 27.1 Regular season rebounds per game &#8211; 7.5 Regular season assists per game &#8211; 7.3 Playoff games played &#8211; 282 Postseason points per game &#8211; 28.5 Postseason rebounds per game &#8211; 9 Postseason assists per game &#8211; 7.2 LeBron James&#8217; investments and endorsements Some of the biggest brands endorsed by LeBron James are as follows: Nike McDonald&#8217;s Blaze Pizza Beats Electronics Sprite Upper Deck State Farm Insurance Audemars Piguet Dunkin&#8217; Donuts Samsung Kia Verizon Intel Lobos 1707 LeBron James has made some very smart investments over the years, which have helped him substantially. Two of James&#8217; most important investments are Blaze Pizza and the English soccer club, Liverpool F.C. LeBron James&#8217; achievements and awards 4Ã— NBA champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) 4Ã— NBA Finals MVP (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) 4Ã— NBA Most Valuable Player (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013) 19Ã— NBA All-Star (2005â€“2023) 3Ã— NBA All-Star Game MVP (2006, 2008, 2018) 13Ã— All-NBA First Team (2006, 2008â€“2018, 2020) 3Ã— All-NBA Second Team (2005, 2007, 2021) 3Ã— All-NBA Third Team (2019, 2022, 2023) 5Ã— NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009â€“2013) NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014) NBA Rookie of the Year (2004) NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004) NBA scoring champion (2008) NBA assists leader (2020) NBA 75th Anniversary Team AP Athlete of the Decade (the 2010s) 4Ã— AP Athlete of the Year (2013, 2016, 2018, 2020) 3Ã— Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2012, 2016, 2020) USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2012) 2Ã— National high school player of the year (2002, 2003) McDonald&#8217;s All-American Game MVP (2003) 2Ã— First-team Parade All-American (2002, 2003) 3Ã— Ohio Mr. Basketball (2001â€“2003) 3x USA Today All-USA First Team (2001-2003) No. 23 retired by St. Vincentâ€“St. Mary LeBron James&#8217; charity and foundation Some of the biggest donations made by LeBron James are to the charities: After-school All-Stars Mohammed Ali: A Force for Change Boys and Girls Club of America Children&#8217;s Defence Fund ONEXONE I Promise School Most of these charities are aimed at helping children and the younger generation. King James is dedicated to providing the youth of America, especially those at risk, the opportunity required to prosper in life with his &#8216;I Promise&#8217; initiative. LeBron James&#8217; rings Over his illustrious 20-year career (and counting), James has won four NBA championships. He has led three different franchises &#8211; the Miami Heat, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Los Angeles Lakers &#8211; to NBA titles. James&#8217; first title came in 2012 with the Heat, when he won his first Finals MVP award, followed by a second consecutive title in 2013. After returning to Cleveland in 2014, James delivered on his promise to bring the city its first major sports championship in over 50 years. In 2016, James powered the Cavaliers back from a daunting 3-1 deficit against the record-setting Golden State Warriors in the Finals. James won his 4th championship and NBA Finals MVP award in 2020, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a championship against his former side, the Miami Heat. LeBron James&#8217; shoe deals LeBron James signed a huge deal with Nike even before he entered the NBA. As James&#8217; superstardom rose, he became one of the most important faces of the brand, with his line of signature shoes, which is in its 20th version now. The four-time NBA MVP signed a lifetime deal with Nike in 2015 for an undisclosed fee. LeBron James&#8217; house LeBron James has reiterated multiple times that he does not spend his hard-earned money without reason. Former teammate Dwyane Wade once revealed that James is one of the cheapest players in the league despite being one of the richest. However, James knows how to spend his fortune in style. And when it comes to where he lives, the King does not compromise. According to reports, LeBron owns multiple properties in California, Ohio, and Miami, that are worth a combined estimated value of $100 million. LeBron James&#8217; car collection LeBron James is known for having an extensive collection of cars, estimated to be worth over $2 million. Some of the standouts include a Chevy Camaro SS, a 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder, and the Dodge Challenger SRT 392. He also owns a Lamborghini Aventador Roadster, a 720-horsepower V12 supercar. Another notable element of his collection is a Mercedes luxury sedan, the Maybach S650, worth around $200,000. Notably, after teaming up with Shaquille O&#8217;Neal in Cleveland, Shaq gifted LeBron a Rolls Royce Phantom for his 25th birthday. The luxury car goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds and is valued at around $505,000. LeBron James&#8217; controversial moments LeBron James has not had any major controversies so far. However, there have been a few questionable moments in his career. James was the centerpiece of controversy during his high school career for accepting gifts. Then his infamous move to the Miami Heat in 2010, announced on national television, stirred up a lot of controversy. James, who is very vocal about his political beliefs, was criticized for his association with Nike because of the brand&#8217;s political stance. Also, his comments on America after Brittney Griner&#8217;s detainment in Russia sparked some controversy. Will LeBron James retire? LeBron James, 39, is currently playing his 21st NBA season in the NBA. The future Hall of Famer is still playing at the highest level, but he is definitely at the tail end of his career. However, the Lakers icon will not retire after the 2023-24 season as he has multiple times opened up about his desire to play alongside his son Bronny James in the league. Bronny will be eligible to declare for the NBA draft next year. So there is a high chance that James may continue playing in the league until his son enters the NBA. LeBron James&#8217; social media accounts  Instagram @kingjames  Twitter @KingJames  Facebook @LeBron James  Website https://www.lebronjames.com/  &nbsp;  Full Name LeBron Raymone James Sr.  Popular Name LeBron James  Birth Date December 30, 1984  Birth Place Akron, Ohio  Height 6&#8242; 9&#8243; (2.06 m)  Weight 250 lbs  Parents Gloria James  Siblings None  Nationality American  Ethnicity African American  Net Worth $1 Billion  Salary $97.1 Million  Spouse Savannah James  Relationship/Marital Status Married  Children Three  Profession Basketball player  Team Los Angeles Lakers

“Get My A** On This Couch”: LeBron James Keeps Celtics Rivalry Away From Festivities With Hilarious Christmas Eve Plan

LeBron’s Christmas Eve game-plan