Latest news with #Trailblazers
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
NBA Summer League takeaways: Flagg, hope for the hopeless Hornets and a chilled Chinese giant
1) Portland may be geniuses The Portland Trailblazers were the butt of every draft night joke when they took China's 7ft 1in Yang Hansen, who had been widely projected as a second-round pick, at No 16 overall. But it appears the joke may be on the rest of the NBA, at least if Vegas Summer League is any indication. Hansen was unequivocally the story of the week, impressing with his high-level offensive skillset, and, in particular, his aptitude for passing and facilitation, an unusual trait for someone his size that has garnered him comparisons to one Nikola Jokić. Despite a ton of attention from global media (Hansen is already getting massive amounts of press back home in China), the jovial 20-year-old appears to have a good head on his shoulders, too. He told Ben Golliver of the Washington Post this week: 'There's a saying in my heart, don't worry about anything that's more than eight hours away. And even if it's within eight hours, don't worry too much.' 2) Cooper Flagg is as good as advertised Heading into a scalding hot week in the desert, the talk of the town was a teenager from Maine, and he proved his mettle in his two Summer League appearances. There was an astronomical amount of hype around the No 1 overall pick leading into his Dallas Mavericks debut, and while the shots didn't start falling until his second game, all the signs of someone who will almost certainly be a highly impactful NBA player were there from tip-off. Flagg is incredibly well-rounded: he can create, score, pass, and defend at a high level, and he showcased a little bit of everything in Vegas. Posting 31 points and four rebounds in his second (and final) Summer League appearance against the San Antonio Spurs, Flagg showed why many scouts have called him the most promising college prospect since Zion Williamson. And with Flagg's reported maniacal work ethic, his career is primed to easily clear his fellow Duke alum's. Related: Cooper Flagg's NBA soft launch showed the spotlight fits just fine 3) Bronny James is an NBA player It's been a rollercoaster start to his NBA career for Bronny James, who saw his brief college basketball tenure at USC interrupted by a cardiac arrest and then faced more criticism than perhaps any late second-round draft pick in league history. It even brought about a feud between LeBron James and Stephen A Smith, when the ESPN blowhard scolded Bronny's father on television for, he purported, forcing his son into a spotlight for which he was woefully unqualified ('I'm pleading with you, as a father, stop this,' Smith said). Bronny didn't have a particularly impressive first season in the league, to be sure. But between his time in the G League last year and his stint for the Lakers in Vegas this year, one thing is becoming clear: he has upside as an NBA role player. For much of the week, James Jr was the Lakers' standout player, flashing impressive playmaking and athleticism that recalled his days as a highly touted high school recruit before his myocardial infarction. Perhaps Mr Smith spoke too soon. 4) San Antonio have an embarrassment of riches at guard Flagg is obviously the frontrunner to win rookie of the year this season, but there is a non-zero chance that a San Antonio Spur could take the award for the third year running, which is pretty damned remarkable. Dylan Harper, the Rutgers guard who the Spurs drafted second overall, showcased why San Antonio have a chance at a ROTY three-peat. Harper missed the beginning of Summer League with a groin injury, but in his marquee match-up against Flagg, he showcased the defensive intensity and point of attack chops that make the guard such an intriguing prospect. At 6ft 5in, he has great size for his position, and his finishing around the basket is already impressive. 5) Denver are sitting pretty Just a year ago, I predicted that the Denver Nuggets – NBA champions only a few seasons ago and home to Jokić, widely regarded as the best player in the world – were on the brink of a disastrous season. After all, not only had they let yet another key component of their championship core (Kentavious Caldwell-Pope) walk out the door for nothing, but the floor spacing big man, DaRon Holmes II, who they'd drafted just a few weeks earlier to be Jokić's backup, suffered a harrowing achilles tear in his Summer League debut and was out indefinitely. What a difference a year can make: Denver were able to make some shrewd free-agency moves and convince Jonas Valanciunas not to abandon ship for Europe. And a year after his devastating lower leg injury, Holmes hasn't just picked up where he left off, he may have exceeded expectations, grabbing a staggering 17 rebounds and adding 19 points in his final game in Vegas. 6) Keep an eye on the Hornets No team can be the laughing stock of the league for ever, but the Charlotte Hornets have held the distinction for about as long as humanly possible. But their status seems primed to change, and not just because the franchise won its first ever Summer League Championship last weekend (or championship of any kind, for that matter). Under new, Jumpman-less ownership, the Hornets finally seem to have a direction: hiring super smart and beloved head coach Charles Lee, appearing to nail the draft pick of forward Brandon Miller a couple of years back, and having a pretty stellar draft this year as well. They scooped up UConn's Liam McNeeley, who was one of the biggest Vegas standouts, alongside Duke's Kon Knueppel, who got some shine of his own when his clutch play netted him Summer League Championship Game MVP honors. Knueppel was in Flagg's shadow for most of his one and done season at Duke, but he's cerebral, skilled and a crafty scorer, and should be immediately impactful for the Hornets. Suddenly things don't look so bleak in North Carolina.
The Guardian
22-07-2025
- Sport
- The Guardian
NBA Summer League takeaways: Flagg, hope for the hopeless Hornets and a chilled Chinese giant
1) Portland may be geniuses The Portland Trailblazers were the butt of every draft night joke when they took China's 7ft 1in Yang Hansen, who had been widely projected as a second-round pick, at No 16 overall. But it appears the joke may be on the rest of the NBA, at least if Vegas Summer League is any indication. Hansen was unequivocally the story of the week, impressing with his high-level offensive skillset, and, in particular, his aptitude for passing and facilitation, an unusual trait for someone his size that has garnered him comparisons to one Nikola Jokić. Despite a ton of attention from global media (Hansen is already getting massive amounts of press back home in China), the jovial 20-year-old appears to have a good head on his shoulders, too. He told Ben Golliver of the Washington Post this week: 'There's a saying in my heart, don't worry about anything that's more than eight hours away. And even if it's within eight hours, don't worry too much.' 2) Cooper Flagg is as good as advertised Heading into a scalding hot week in the desert, the talk of the town was a teenager from Maine, and he proved his mettle in his two Summer League appearances. There was an astronomical amount of hype around the No 1 overall pick leading into his Dallas Mavericks debut, and while the shots didn't start falling until his second game, all the signs of someone who will almost certainly be a highly impactful NBA player were there from tip-off. Flagg is incredibly well-rounded: he can create, score, pass, and defend at a high level, and he showcased a little bit of everything in Vegas. Posting 31 points and four rebounds in his second (and final) Summer League appearance against the San Antonio Spurs, Flagg showed why many scouts have called him the most promising college prospect since Zion Williamson. And with Flagg's reported maniacal work ethic, his career is primed to easily clear his fellow Duke alum's. 3) Bronny James is an NBA player It's been a rollercoaster start to his NBA career for Bronny James, who saw his brief college basketball tenure at USC interrupted by a cardiac arrest and then faced more criticism than perhaps any late second-round draft pick in league history. It even brought about a feud between LeBron James and Stephen A Smith, when the ESPN blowhard scolded Bronny's father on television for, he purported, forcing his son into a spotlight for which he was woefully unqualified ('I'm pleading with you, as a father, stop this,' Smith said). Bronny didn't have a particularly impressive first season in the league, to be sure. But between his time in the G League last year and his stint for the Lakers in Vegas this year, one thing is becoming clear: he has upside as an NBA role player. For much of the week, James Jr was the Lakers' standout player, flashing impressive playmaking and athleticism that recalled his days as a highly touted high school recruit before his myocardial infarction. Perhaps Mr Smith spoke too soon. 4) San Antonio have an embarrassment of riches at guard Flagg is obviously the frontrunner to win rookie of the year this season, but there is a non-zero chance that a San Antonio Spur could take the award for the third year running, which is pretty damned remarkable. Dylan Harper, the Rutgers guard who the Spurs drafted second overall, showcased why San Antonio have a chance at a ROTY three-peat. Harper missed the beginning of Summer League with a groin injury, but in his marquee match-up against Flagg, he showcased the defensive intensity and point of attack chops that make the guard such an intriguing prospect. At 6ft 5in, he has great size for his position, and his finishing around the basket is already impressive. 5) Denver are sitting pretty Just a year ago, I predicted that the Denver Nuggets – NBA champions only a few seasons ago and home to Jokić, widely regarded as the best player in the world – were on the brink of a disastrous season. After all, not only had they let yet another key component of their championship core (Kentavious Caldwell-Pope) walk out the door for nothing, but the floor spacing big man, DaRon Holmes II, who they'd drafted just a few weeks earlier to be Jokić's backup, suffered a harrowing achilles tear in his Summer League debut and was out indefinitely. What a difference a year can make: Denver were able to make some shrewd free-agency moves and convince Jonas Valanciunas not to abandon ship for Europe. And a year after his devastating lower leg injury, Holmes hasn't just picked up where he left off, he may have exceeded expectations, grabbing a staggering 17 rebounds and adding 19 points in his final game in Vegas. 6) Keep an eye on the Hornets No team can be the laughing stock of the league for ever, but the Charlotte Hornets have held the distinction for about as long as humanly possible. But their status seems primed to change, and not just because the franchise won its first ever Summer League Championship last weekend (or championship of any kind, for that matter). Under new, Jumpman-less ownership, the Hornets finally seem to have a direction: hiring super smart and beloved head coach Charles Lee, appearing to nail the draft pick of forward Brandon Miller a couple of years back, and having a pretty stellar draft this year as well. They scooped up UConn's Liam McNeeley, who was one of the biggest Vegas standouts, alongside Duke's Kon Knueppel, who got some shine of his own when his clutch play netted him Summer League Championship Game MVP honors. Knueppel was in Flagg's shadow for most of his one and done season at Duke, but he's cerebral, skilled and a crafty scorer, and should be immediately impactful for the Hornets. Suddenly things don't look so bleak in North Carolina.
Zawya
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
WomenIN Festival Unveils 2025 Theme: 'LIMITLESS: No Labels. No Limits. No Apologies'
The WomenIN Festival, Africa's definitive gathering of women from across industries, sectors, and stages of life, is thrilled to announce its official theme for 2025: LIMITLESS: No Labels. No Limits. No Apologies. This year's theme is more than a slogan — it's a declaration. A rallying cry for women who are no longer asking for permission. She's not fitting in — she's standing out, showing up, and shaking the world. The sub-themes set the tone for a celebration of authenticity, boldness, and multidimensional brilliance. It's about embracing your full self — in business, in leadership, in creativity, and in life. Save the Date: 13–14 November 2025 Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town, South Africa WomenIN Festival 2025 will once again unite trailblazers, thought leaders, creatives, entrepreneurs, and change-makers for a powerful two-day experience filled with: Inspiring keynotes and fireside conversations Transformative networking Immersive activations and curated spaces Unapologetic celebration and connection From boardrooms to grassroots, innovation hubs to social impact spaces — this is where Africa's boldest women connect, collaborate, and thrive. 'LIMITLESS is not just our theme — it's a mindset. It's about dismantling outdated labels and owning the fullness of who we are, as women leading across industries, cultures, and communities. At WomenIN, we're building a global movement that recognises and celebrates every woman's power to rewrite the rules, reimagine her future, and rise.' – Naz Fredericks-Maharaj, Director: WomenIN Portfolio Whether you're building your legacy, launching your vision, or reimagining your next chapter — this is your invitation to do it limitlessly. Tickets are now available at and start at just R1499 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group. Festival ticket page: Partnerships&speaking opportunities: Hashtags: #WomenINFestival #Limitless2025 #NoLabelsNoLimitsNoApologies #WeAreWomenIN WomenIN (WiN): Empowering Women, Breaking Barriers, Creating Impact: WomenIN is a powerful cross-sector movement that connects, inspires, and uplifts women across Africa through collaboration, leadership, and sustainable development. From energy and mobility to retail, gaming, and the green economy, WiN is driving real change by building inclusive ecosystems where women can thrive. Through a range of in-person gatherings, digital content, workshops, and sector-specific initiatives, WomenIN provides a trusted platform for female professionals, entrepreneurs, changemakers, and allies to grow together, break silos, and co-create solutions for Africa's future. With a strong focus on capacity building, leadership development, and market access for female-owned businesses, WomenIN is building a legacy of impact for generations to come. Whether you're a corporate, NPO, SMME, or individual changemaker, there is space for you at the table—because we win when we WiN together. For more information, please visit: or contact our team at info@ ABOUT VUKA Group: VUKA Group brings people and organisations together to connect with information and each other in meaningful conversations that drive growth and transformation across Africa's industries. With 20+ years of experience on the continent, the group delivers sector-leading platforms across Energy, Mining, Smart Mobility, Transport, Retail, and Women Empowerment. The WomenIN (WiN) portfolio is a flagship initiative of VUKA Group, championing gender inclusivity and creating opportunities for women to lead, influence, and innovate across sectors. With a proudly African team and a commitment to sustainable development, VUKA is creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to rise.
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
New NBA sensation has a few words for Jokić
DENVER (KDVR) — The culmination of one of the biggest stories around the NBA currently began on draft night, when the Portland Trailblazers made an unexpected pick in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. The Trailblazers selected Yang Hansen from China with the No. 16 pick in the draft, with many scouts predicting Hansen would go in the second round, nearly 20 to 30 spots later. Advertisement Valančiūnas trade to Nuggets made official following short-lived issue The Denver Nuggets know a thing or two about drafting in that range of the second round of the draft, finding superstar Nikola Jokić with the No. 41 pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, and if comparisons of Hansen to Jokić hold some truth to them, the Trailblazers were smart to snap up the foreign prospect earlier than he was intended to go. The decision left some fans and scouts scratching their heads. Hansen's NBA Summer League debut was one that people were keeping an eye on. It wouldn't take long for Hansen to showcase why the Trailblazers were so high on the 7'1″ center. Advertisement In his first game, he put up statistics, including: 10 points Five assists Four rebounds Three blocks One steal Those stats might not jump off the page, but it was in the way that they were achieved that showed off his tantalizing skill set. Hansen offered a little bit of everything, scoring-wise: nailing a banked three-pointer and showcasing some post moves, while also providing some stout defense, but it was his passing that showed flashes of Jokić. He demonstrated a delicate touch, a high IQ understanding of the game and a bit of flair with his five assists. Immediate evacuations requested in Louviers due to multiple fires The Jokić-esque play might stem from his idolization of the Serbian center, and in an interview after the game, when questioned about what he may ask Jokić in their first meeting next season, Hansen informed his translator, who responded, 'Picture? Signature, please?' Advertisement Hansen has gone viral in the NBA community, and although the NBA Summer League is a small sample size of his abilities, the Jokić play style is definitely surfacing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
ABC News
09-07-2025
- Business
- ABC News
Applications open for the ABC Trailblazers Program
Applications are now open for the 2026 ABC Trailblazers Program for emerging regional leaders who are creating positive change in their communities. Encouraged to apply are 18–28 year olds who are leading social, educational, environmental or economic projects in regional areas. 'As an advocate for underrepresented communities, I'm grateful to have participated in the Trailblazers program,' says Trailblazer alumna Yolanda Kanyai. Originally from Zimbabwe and now based in Darwin, Yolanda founded Vibrant Diverse Cultures (VDC) to support people from diverse backgrounds through mentoring and wellness initiatives. 'Trailblazers gave us a platform to showcase VDC's work in building community resilience. It was empowering to connect with changemakers across regional Australia,' Yolanda says. Each year, up to 20 regional changemakers are selected to join the program, receiving a support package including a leadership intensive at the Heywire Regional Youth Summit, aimed at empowering young regional leaders to share their stories with the nation, and funding opportunities. Trailblazers gave Clancy Lester, an ecologist from Numurkah in Victoria, a platform to share his work increasing insect biodiversity. Clancy's Native Bee Hotels project educates people about creating eco-friendly habitats for native bees and pollinators through workshops and community projects. "Being a country kid that wears footy shorts and a singlet for half the year, getting the chance to go to Parliament House and rub shoulders with the people who can make it happen was pretty awesome," Clancy says. "Through the program's guidance, connections and exposure, all the pieces came together, giving my project the direction and momentum it needed to reach millions of people." Since its launch in 2017, more than 130 young people have participated in the Trailblazers program, connecting with fellow changemakers, advancing their projects and sharing their work with a national audience across the ABC. The Hon. Kristy McBain MP, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, encourages young rural and regional leaders to apply for the 2026 Trailblazers program to elevate their projects and make a difference in their communities. 'Alumni from the Trailblazers program are making positive changes in communities right across our nation,' she says. 'The program provides a unique opportunity for participants to get inspired, grow their projects and collaborate with other young leaders. I strongly encourage aspiring community leaders to apply.' ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks says Trailblazers offers a powerful platform. "The ABC is proud to provide young community leaders, social entrepreneurs and advocates with the chance to highlight their exceptional work on a national level," he says. "Past Trailblazers have inspired us with their community-driven initiatives and I eagerly anticipate the ideas and innovations that will come forward in 2026." Submit your application through the Trailblazers website by Sunday 3 August 2025. The ABC's Trailblazers program sits under the umbrella of the Heywire program, which the ABC has run in partnership with the Australia Government since 1998. The ABC's Trailblazers program is supported by the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts; the Department of Health and Aged Care; the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations; the Office for Youth; and AgriFutures Australia. For more information and photos, or to organise interviews with Trailblazers from previous years, please contact: Imogen Archer, Heywire Producer Phone: 0429 077 111 Email:
