NBA Finals: Miami Heat ready for another shot at Denver Nuggets

NBA Finals: Miami Heat ready for another shot at Denver Nuggets
Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra, left, chats with team president Pat Riley as they watch players practice for Game 2 of the NBA Finals, Saturday in Denver. (AP)
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Updated 05 June 2023
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NBA Finals: Miami Heat ready for another shot at Denver Nuggets

NBA Finals: Miami Heat ready for another shot at Denver Nuggets
  • Heat talisman Jimmy Butler to teammates: Stay aggressive, because you’ve been the reason that we have won so many games before
  • Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said it wouldn’t take much to open the floodgates

DENVER: Miami are confident they can turn up the Heat against the Denver Nuggets in Game 2 of the NBA Finals.

The Nuggets dominated in a 104-93 Game 1 triumph in the best-of-seven series on Thursday, when Miami’s chances were doomed by their inability to connect on shots — including a 33.3 percent success rate from three-point range.

Max Strus was 0-for-10 from the field, Caleb Martin 1-of-7 and Duncan Robinson 1-of-6.

But Heat talisman Jimmy Butler — himself held to 13 points — said he has a simple message for those teammates, who have played a key role in making Miami the second eighth-seeded team ever to reach an NBA Finals.

“Stay aggressive, because you’ve been the reason that we have won so many games before,” Butler said Saturday as the team practiced in Denver in preparation for Sunday’s game.

“You are going to be the reason that we win games now. and that’s never going to change.”

The Heat collectively agreed — in the immediate aftermath of Thursday’s defeat and after studying game video — that they had plenty of good opportunities in Game 1.

“We did see some things that we liked and we got some great looks, myself included,” Strus said. “We’ve got to knock those down, and we’ve got great shooters on our team, and we will knock those down.”

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said it wouldn’t take much to open the floodgates.

“In terms of the shooters, that’s pretty simple,” Spoelstra said. “Let it fly. Ignite.

“Once they see two go down, it could be three, it could turn into six just like that,” he added with a snap of his fingers. “As long as we are getting those clean looks, that’s what matters.”

Butler said there are other adjustments to be made after a game in which the Heat got to the free-throw line just twice — a record low for an NBA playoff game.

“I think I’ve got to be more aggressive putting pressure on the rim,” he said. “I think that makes everybody’s job a lot easier.”

And Butler said there was no sense of panic in a Heat team that saw a 3-0 lead against Boston evaporate before Miami finished off the Celtics in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals.

“We’re OK, we really are,” he said. “We are very calm. We are very collected. We have so much confidence, still.

“It’s not going anywhere. We’re going to believe in one another, always, no matter what, home or away — And we’re still going to get four (wins).”


Tough Mudder set for Middle East launch at AlUla

Tough Mudder set for Middle East launch at AlUla
Updated 18 sec ago
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Tough Mudder set for Middle East launch at AlUla

Tough Mudder set for Middle East launch at AlUla
  • Inaugural 8-hour Tough Mudder Infinity competition takes place on Feb. 24, 2024

ALULA: Tough Mudder, a global leader in obstacle course races, has announced the debut of its new contest in the Middle East.

The ultra-endurance obstacle course event, titled Tough Mudder Infinity, will take place on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024, at AlUla, one of the world’s top destinations.

Tough Mudder Infinity is an eight-hour competition, challenging participants to complete as many laps of a course as they can. The event will offer one of the largest prize pots in the history of obstacle course races. Participants can enter as individuals or as part of a team.

Nic Cartwright, Tough Mudder Middle East license holder, said: “We are thrilled to bring this groundbreaking Tough Mudder Infinity event to AlUla, showcasing the region’s commitment to pushing boundaries and promoting an active lifestyle. The scenic and challenging landscape of AlUla will serve as the perfect backdrop for this exhilarating event.”

Taking place in AlUla, an ancient oasis city located in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, the event will welcome participants from the Tough Mudder global community.

AlUla has been the home of several human civilizations for over 7,000 years. These peoples have left behind a rich tapestry of historical artifacts and clues to their way of life. The region also has remarkable flora and fauna worth exploring.

Rami AlMoallim, vice president of destination management and marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: “AlUla is one of the most captivating tourist destinations in the region, and we are pleased to partner with Tough Mudder to host this unique sporting event for the first time in the Middle East. AlUla continues to delight visitors with its annual calendar of AlUla Moments shows and events, and we look forward to hosting fans of this very special sport in AlUla.”

There will also be 5 km and 10 km Tough Mudder races on the same day for new and returning Mudders, suitable for participants at different fitness levels.


Rose Zhang and Solheim Cup stars join lineup at Aramco Team Series Hong Kong

Rose Zhang and Solheim Cup stars join lineup at Aramco Team Series Hong Kong
Rose Zhang of the United States has joined a strong field at the Aramco Team Series Hong Kong (Getty Images)
Updated 27 September 2023
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Rose Zhang and Solheim Cup stars join lineup at Aramco Team Series Hong Kong

Rose Zhang and Solheim Cup stars join lineup at Aramco Team Series Hong Kong
  • US world No. 1 Lilia Vu and world No. 3 Jin Young Ko will take part in the event at the Hong Kong Golf Club from Oct. 6-8

HONG KONG: The Aramco Team Series presented by PIF – Hong Kong is set to receive another boost of star power with the addition of 20-year-old golf sensation Rose Zhang.

The star-studded field already features fellow team US world No. 1 Lilia Vu and world No. 3 Jin Young Ko, alongside Chinese stars Muni He and Xiyu Lin, promising an exciting spectacle at the Hong Kong Golf Club from Oct. 6 to 8.

Zhang’s professional debut sent shockwaves through the golf world when she secured victory at the Mizuho Americas Open in June. Her win made her the first player to achieve this feat on the LPGA Tour since Japanese star Hinako Shibuno in 2019. Zhang’s triumph marked her as the eighth player since 1992 to win in their first professional start on Tour, joining the ranks of household names such as Karrie Webb.

Zhang’s extraordinary amateur career included eight wins in a single season, a record that ties her with golf legend Tiger Woods for the most victories by a Stanford player in the school’s history. Zhang’s journey saw her win 12 times in just 20 starts during her Stanford career, surpassing all other players, both male and female.

Zhang’s reign as the world’s No. 1-ranked amateur extended over an impressive 141 weeks, a record unmatched by any other player. Her amateur tenure also featured 13 starts on Tour, including participation in eight major championships, with her best finish being T11 at the 2020 Chevron Championship.

Currently ranked 32nd in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings, Zhang is eagerly anticipating her Aramco Team Series debut and said: “I’m delighted to be part of the Aramco Team Series – Hong Kong. It’s an incredible opportunity to be part of such an exciting world-class event, and I’m eager to take on some of the world’s best on this fantastic stage in Hong Kong.”

The addition of Zhang further solidifies the event’s status as a gathering of golf’s brightest talents. Fans can look forward to witnessing this young star’s extraordinary skills on the grand stage at Hong Kong Golf Club as she competes alongside other top professionals and accomplished amateurs from around the world.

The Aramco Team Series Hong Kong follows a dramatic Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin in Spain, which eventually ended 14-all between the American and European sides. Vu posted a 1-3-0 record, and Zhang, who made her Solheim Cup debut, finished with a 0-2-1 for the week.

Joining Zhang and Vu in Hong Kong from the European side are Aramco Florida champion Carlota Ciganda and Caroline Hedwall. Ciganda secured the crucial point to help Team Europe retain the Solheim Cup by defeating Aramco London champion Nelly Korda in their singles match on the final day. She went undefeated at 4-0-0 for an impressive week in Spain.

Accompanying Ciganda is fellow European Hedwall, who defeated American Ally Ewing in a decisive Sunday singles match, concluding the week with a 1-1-0 record.

 


6,000 grapplers expected at Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship

6,000 grapplers expected at Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship
Updated 27 September 2023
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6,000 grapplers expected at Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship

6,000 grapplers expected at Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship
  • Male and female fighters from 100 countries will take part in the 15th edition of the event at Mubadala Arena in November

ABU DHABI: The 15th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship starting on Nov. 1 at the Mubadala Arena will see 6,000 grapplers from 100 countries participating.

Notable clubs and academies from nations including the UAE, UK, US, Brazil, Colombia, Kazakhstan, Germany, France and Canada, all renowned for their excellence in the world of jiu-jitsu, will be represented.

There will also be athletes from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, the Philippines and Thailand, all of which have achieved significant success in the sport in a relatively short period.

“The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship has a well-deserved position as the largest and most important international jiu-jitsu event,” said Mohamed Salem Al-Dhaheri, deputy chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and chairman of the organizing committee.

“Over the past years, the event has contributed to reshaping the sport of jiu-jitsu on a global level and elevating the game to the pinnacle of martial arts sports. Jiu-jitsu has gained immense popularity worldwide, prompting countries to develop plans and strategies to promote the sport and nurture professional athletes. Many are looking to Abu Dhabi’s inspiring experience in sports development as a model to emulate.”

Al-Dhaheri added: “The 15th edition of the ADWPJJC is a dream event for global stars as it continues the path of incredible successes achieved by previous editions, and this year’s edition excels in both quantity and quality, attracting elite competitors who share the spirit of challenge, determination, will, and dreams.”

Adriano Munoz, head coach and lead athlete at Atrixion MMA Academy in Dubai, said: “As a foreign coach based in the UAE, the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship stands out as the most prestigious event for us. We have a multitude of top athletes training at our facilities, including athletes from Colombia, Brazil, Spain and India, who are eagerly anticipating their participation in the championship this November.”

“For our athletes, particularly those from Brazil and Spain, this championship holds immense significance. It is considered the pinnacle of jiu-jitsu tournaments, offering a platform to showcase their skills against the world’s finest competitors. We view it as the ultimate opportunity for them to gain recognition and strive for excellence.”

Munoz, who has been teaching jiu-jitsu in the UAE for the past two years, noted the remarkable growth of the sport in the country. “The UAE has firmly established itself as a global epicenter for jiu-jitsu, thanks to increased participation, robust support, and substantial investments in the sport. This transformation has given rise to a vibrant community, attracting practitioners and enthusiasts from across the globe.”

He added that their focus extends beyond technical training, emphasizing emotional well-being. “We have a dedicated sports psychologist who assists athletes in managing their emotional and internal aspects,” he said.

“Currently, we are hosting athletes from Brazil and Spain who are participating in our ADWPJJC Camp. In the previous year, we achieved remarkable results, securing five gold medals, four silver medals, and four bronze medals during the championship. Our aim this year is to surpass these achievements and continue our pursuit of excellence.”


‘Exciting times ahead’: NBA legend Tim Hardaway Sr. hails basketball growth in Middle East

‘Exciting times ahead’: NBA legend Tim Hardaway Sr. hails basketball growth in Middle East
Updated 45 min 26 sec ago
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‘Exciting times ahead’: NBA legend Tim Hardaway Sr. hails basketball growth in Middle East

‘Exciting times ahead’: NBA legend Tim Hardaway Sr. hails basketball growth in Middle East
  • Standfirst: The Hall of Famer spoke to Arab News ahead of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023 between the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves at the Etihad Arena

Ahead of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023, presented by ADQ at the Etihad Arena, and the two much-anticipated preseason matchups between the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves, Arab News caught up with NBA legend Tim Hardaway Sr. to find out what he expects to go down on Thursday, Oct. 5 and Saturday, Oct. 7.

Hardaway spoke on the UAE capital hosting NBA preseason games for the second consecutive year, and holding its inaugural International Basketball Week in August this year, which featured national teams preparing for the FIBA World Cup.

“I find it very exciting to witness the international growth of basketball, especially in the Middle East,” said Hardaway Sr., a five-time NBA All-Star with the Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat. “The game is making significant strides and becoming more accessible to fans around the world. Events like the International Basketball Week that took place a few months ago here in Abu Dhabi and the NBA games being played here are indeed exciting times for local fans.

“Any opportunity the team has to practice and prepare for the upcoming season will benefit the players. It’s a long season and I believe that, in the long run, all players will come together and develop that chemistry.”

A basketball Hall of Famer, Hardaway Sr. is the father of Dallas Mavericks guard Tim Hardaway Jr. When asked about his son’s chances of winning the championship next season, Hardaway Sr. was confident the Mavericks can experience success this year.

“Yes, I believe the Dallas Mavericks have a shot at winning the championship next season,” he said. “I think the Mavs have all the elements in their favor to be strong contenders for the title. Furthermore, they possess a not-so-secret weapon in Luka Doncic, who can lead the team to the NBA Playoffs. He is arguably one of the best players in the league right now and a serious candidate for the NBA MVP Award.”

Complementing the action in Abu Dhabi is the NBA District, a fan-centric event at Manarat Al-Saadiyat from Oct. 5 to 8. This interactive gathering, which welcomed nearly 10,000 fans last year, offers enthusiasts the chance to meet NBA legends, including Hardaway Sr. One person the NBA legend is looking forward to seeing during NBA Week is, unsurprisingly, his son.

“I do have a busy schedule, but we will definitely make an effort to spend some quality time together and acquaint ourselves with this beautiful city and all it has to offer,” Hardaway Sr. said. “I’m eagerly anticipating our exploration of Abu Dhabi; I’ve heard it’s a fantastic destination and I can’t wait to experience it.”

Taking place on Oct. 5 and 7 and tipping off at 8pm GST on Yas Island, tickets for the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023 can still be purchased at etihadarena.ae and ticketmaster.ae.


Spain celebrate World Cup victory with record crowd for Switzerland romp

Spain celebrate World Cup victory with record crowd for Switzerland romp
Updated 27 September 2023
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Spain celebrate World Cup victory with record crowd for Switzerland romp

Spain celebrate World Cup victory with record crowd for Switzerland romp
  • Captains Alexia Putellas and Irene Paredes presented the trophy to jubilant supporters in Cordoba and the squad sported wristbands reading “It’s Over“
  • The two eventual Nations League finalists qualify for next year’s Olympic Games in Paris

CORDOVA, SPAIN: Spain’s Women’s World Cup winners were given a rapturous reception as they played for the first time at home after their triumph, thrashing Switzerland 5-0 in the Nations League on Tuesday in front of a record crowd.

Captains Alexia Putellas and Irene Paredes presented the trophy to jubilant supporters in Cordoba and the squad sported wristbands reading “It’s Over” — a nod to the charge the players are leading in the protracted battle for equality.

La Roja’s triumph in Australia and New Zealand in August was regrettably tarnished by the behavior of former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales, who forcibly kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony.

The disgraced chief resigned, while controversial coach Jorge Vilda was sacked, but dozens of internationals stayed on strike, demanding further federation improvements.

Eventually the majority of new coach Montse Tome’s squad agreed to participate in the Nations League matches, despite being called up against their will, as the Spanish government intervened to broker a deal between the federation and the players.

Hermoso was not included in the squad, which Tome said was to “protect” her.

Spain beat Sweden 3-2 in Gothenburg last Friday and then crushed Switzerland to take a stranglehold on top spot in League A Group 4.

The two eventual Nations League finalists qualify for next year’s Olympic Games in Paris.

Spain earned a new record home attendance of 14,194 supporters, albeit a far cry from the 76,000 in Sydney that watched their first World Cup triumph.

“We really wanted to celebrate the World Cup with the fans, we’re proud to see the stadium full today,” said Bonmati.

Various players spoke of the anxiety and stress they suffered last week before the win over Sweden, as well as the tiredness and sleepless nights they accumulated after the World Cup, and before a deal was reached.

UEFA Women’s Player of the Year Aitana Bonmati said the situation was “calming down” before the visit of Switzerland and players were glad to focus on the football once again.

There was a party atmosphere at the Nuevo Arcangel stadium, with chants of “champions of the world” ringing out around the ground.

However, the team’s fight against sexism remained in the spotlight, as players from both sides held up a banner with the “It’s Over” slogan, used by Hermoso and other stars in the wake of the Rubiales incident.

“Our fight is the global fight,” the banner continued. World Cup runners-up England, Australia and other national teams have sent messages of support to the Spain squad over the past month, encouraging their protest action.

Spain thrashed Switzerland 5-1 in the World Cup round of 16 and dominated again from the start on a muggy Cordoba night.

Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Putellas lashed over early on, while Eva Navarro spurned two good chances.

Lucia Garcia sent La Roja ahead after Mariona Caldentey intercepted a poor pass from Switzerland goalkeeper Elvira Herzog after 15 minutes.

The unfortunate stopper was culpable again for the second goal, when she fumbled Bonmati’s soft volley from Olga Carmona’s cross over the line in first-half stoppage time.

Barcelona playmaker and World Cup player of the tournament Bonmati pounced again after the break with a higher calibre strike, steering home superbly from the edge of the box.

Inma Gabarro tapped in the fourth after Herzog spilled Athenea del Castillo’s shot into her path.

Real Madrid’s Maite Oroz saved the best for last with a sensational half-volley from outside the area which ripped into the top corner.

Spain made it clear once again that despite the toll their fight for equality is taking, on the pitch they are head and shoulders above the rest.

“The positive thing is we got over our problems, we were able to think about football, to change the focus,” Tome told reporters.

“These (games) were my debut as a coach, my first time, and I told the players I was proud I was doing it with them.

“I learned some things ... and I’m sure that when I think about it, down the line, that it has been very useful.”