Author: lehang

  • NEW PLAN: Giannis Antetokounmpo struggles to experience Pilates for the first time at Alimos

    NEW PLAN: Giannis Antetokounmpo struggles to experience Pilates for the first time at Alimos

    Giannis Antetokounmpo is constantly looking for new ways to get better at every level. Somehow, the Greek Freak has incorporated pilates into their training program to achieve even more flexibility and balance.

    Just before Bucks practice began, newlywed Giannis Antetokounmpo was making sure to stay in shape. In addition to weights, aerobics, and of course basketball, the Greek Freak’s training program also includes pilates!

    The 30-year-old NBA superstar visited a specialized center in Alimos – wearing a Greek National Team jersey, of course – and showed that even a 2.11 body can comfortably perform this type of exercise.

    Despite his initial challenges, Giannis displayed determination and a willingness to learn during the session. His towering frame and muscular build posed unique challenges, requiring adjustments to accommodate his physique. As he navigated through the exercises, his focus and commitment shone through, showcasing his relentless drive for improvement both on and off the basketball court.

    Giannis Antetokounmpo’s foray into Pilates not only highlights his versatility as an athlete but also emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to explore new ways of enhancing physical well-being.

    Nikola Jokic’s Brutally Honest Statement on Luka Doncic Trade to Lakers

    The NBA is now dominated by international stars like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Victor Wembanyama, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as the league continues its global expansion.

    On Saturday, one of the league’s biggest international icons was unexpectedly traded to its largest market when the Dallas Mavericks sent franchise point guard Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

    The move stunned the entire league, as Doncic is undoubtedly a top-three player in the NBA and was fresh off an NBA Finals appearance. Following the shocking trade, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, another of the league’s premier international stars, revealed that he reached out to Doncic.

    “I text him,” Jokic said. “He felt it, of course. I think he didn’t expect it, of course. I think he just needs to be with family right now, it’s a big move. It’s a business, I don’t know. I think nobody expected it, especially him. I think nobody is safe in the league. But I think he’s going to do a good job. I think he’s the player for a big scene, even though I thought in Dallas he had something special going.”

    Mar 17, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) speaks with Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) during the second half at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

    A player of Doncic’s caliber getting traded without notice and without a request is unheard of in today’s NBA and has many of the league’s top stars wondering if they will be next.

    Jokic’s honest message is likely how the majority of the league is feeling after the groundbreaking deal and gives insight into how even Doncic was shocked after the unexpected trade.

  • Kelsea Ballerini Pranks Adam Levine on ‘The Voice’ With Help From Blake Shelton

    Kelsea Ballerini Pranks Adam Levine on ‘The Voice’ With Help From Blake Shelton

    New coach Kelsea Ballerini took the opportunity to tease Adam Levine on “The Voice” — and she got a little help from Blake Shelton. Shelton, who was known for lovingly harassing Levine, is no longer a coach on the show. Now Ballerini is getting in on the fun.

    Kelsea Ballerini

    Kelsea Ballerini Pokes Fun at Adam Levine on ‘The Voice’

    Shelton and Levine had a lot of fun times on “The Voice” when they playfully bickered and roasted each other as rival coaches. Levine is back as a coach for season 27, but he doesn’t have Shelton to trade jabs with.

    Ballerini is bringing some of that Shelton sass to the show.

    In a January 2025 interview with News Channel 8’s “Daytime,” Ballerini talked about her new coaching gig.

    Before they dug into the interview, the hosts showed a clip from the new season of “The Voice,” in which Levine tries to convince a contestant to join his team.

    The camera pans to Ballerini, who hits her chair button. Shelton’s voice is heard saying, “Adam’s a big baby.”

    Ballerini says, “I had it for when I really needed some backup and I got it.” She presses the button again and Shelton says, “Adam won’t shut up” and “Adam, you say a lot of stupid stuff.”

    Ballerini says, “I rest my case,” as the other coaches have a good laugh.

    Levine takes it in stride, saying, “You know what that reminds me of? My long pedigreed history here on ‘The Voice.’”

    During her interview with “Daytime,” Ballerini shared, “I’m having so much fun. Even just that clip … that is what it’s been like on set every time. We’re just having the most fun. I can’t wait for people to see it.”

    Kelsea Ballerini Got Solid ‘Voice’ Advice From Kelly Clarkson

    In a February 2025 interview with “Chicago Today,” Ballerini shared how Kelly Clarkson helped ease her nerves about joining “The Voice.”

    “I texted [Kelly Clarkson] and I was like, ‘Dude, I’m nervous. Like, I know I want this, but I also don’t know if I’m ready for this. Also, I haven’t done television like this before,’” she shared.

    Clarkson, as a seasoned “Voice” coach, knew just what to tell the country superstar.

    “Remember that the first bit is not live. So if you get nervous or you say something that you’re like, ‘Oh, I stumbled, I shouldn’t have said that,’ you’re going to be covered,” she recalled Clarkson telling her.

    Clarkson assured Ballerini, “You’re going to be safe. Like, it’s not live until the end, and by then you’ll be totally ready for it. And she was right.”

  • Ariana Grande Tackles Her Biggest Musical Challenge Yet: ‘That Was Terrifying’

    Ariana Grande Tackles Her Biggest Musical Challenge Yet: ‘That Was Terrifying’

    Is there nothing that Ariana Grande can’t sing? The former “The Voice” coach was put to the test during the February 5 episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” when she was presented with a song she didn’t know. Spoiler alert: she totally nailed it.

    Ariana Grande Takes on ‘Jimmy Kimmel’ Challenge With Hilarious Results

    Grande took on Kimmel’s “Wing It & Sing It” music challenge and came through the other side without a hitch. The former “The Voice” coach agreed to sing a completely unknown song that focused on her petite stature.

    “Your test tonight, if you choose to accept it, is to sing a song you’ve never seen the lyrics or heard any of the music before,” the host told her. “It’s time to wing it and sing it!”

    Grande sang through a series of cue cards showing the lyrics and, as Kimmel removed them one by one, the words got more absurd.

    The singer, accompanied by a talented pianist, managed to find a melody along the way as she worked through her giggles — and even added some signature riffs.

    The song kicked off with: “I am a strong, successful woman who always stands up tall, even though I am in fact so very, very small.”

    Ariana Grande Says She Is 'Missing a Few Years' of Her Memories -  EntertainmentNow

    The lyrics reflected things that are small, with words including: “I’m a human baby carrot. I’m a lady Pikachu. I am little. I am tiny. I am the perfect bite-sized snack. 10 of me stacked up only equals one of Shaq.”

    At one point, Grande sang that she’s so tiny, she fits in a hamster wheel and uses a sock for a bed. Other lyrics included, “And yes my name is Grande. It’s ironic that I’m small. People ask me, ‘Where is your mom?’ when walking through the mall.”

    Ariana Grande Called the Experience ‘Absolutely Insane’

    Though Grande pushed through like a boss, she admitted in her interview with Kimmel, “That was terrifying.” The singer added, “It was so much fun and absolutely insane. That was hilarious.”

    During the interview, Grande also shared what it was like to hear about her Oscar nomination for her performance as Glinda in “Wicked.”

    “When they announced mine, I was a mess,” she said. “I almost collapsed.”

    Grande received a flurry of calls and texts after it was announced — from her friends, family, team, therapist, and even her gynecologist. “It was lovely,” she said of her doctor’s call. “I was like, ‘Oh my God, it’s been a while. We good?’”

     

  • Jelly Roll Really Touches Your Soul With This Heartfelt Duet With Lainey Wilson On His Most Iconic Hit

    Jelly Roll Really Touches Your Soul With This Heartfelt Duet With Lainey Wilson On His Most Iconic Hit

    Get ready for some big-time feels with this Jelly Roll performance. The country star really knows how to let his heart bleed onstage, making for unforgettable live performances like his rendition of “Save Me” with Lainey Wilson. The pair sang a duet on his hit “Save Me” at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards. From the first note, it was clear that this was gonna be a very special performance from Tennessee’s favourite son.

    The Music Man has to say that the live cut would already be a slam dunk just from Jelly Roll’s performance, but Wilson’s yearning vocals and then the dual vocals in the second half just take the song to the next level. Jelly Roll’s willingness to talk about his demons so openly through his lyrics made a big impact on listeners, who tuned in 12 million times to this powerful performance.

    Jelly Roll - Save Me (with Lainey Wilson) [Live From The 58th ACM Awards]

    Jelly Roll isn’t afraid to put his heart on the line, and his lyrics prompted many fans to share their own struggles and journey in the comments. Viewers also had plenty of love for the performance, adding comments such as “I listen to this song every day. Not religious or country, but you have no soul if this song does not move you” and “I always get on the brink of weeping when Lainey gets on stage and sings in this performance. No other song does this to me.”

    You may also like…

    – Article Continues Below –

    There’s something about Jelly Roll’s live shows that just keeps people coming back. I can’t think of any emerging artist who can hit quite as hard with such raw and emotional performances so consistently. Another great Jelly Roll moment came on the 2024 The Voice finale when the Tennessee star brought the house down with “I Am Not OK.”


    Jelly Roll released “Save Me” on June 25, 2020, as a single from his seventh studio album Self Medicated. He subsequently re-released the song as a duet with Lainey Wilson on May 12, 2023, this time as the second single from his ninth studio album Whitsitt Chapel. The country rap star co-wrote “Save Me” with Grant Sims and David Ray, with the latter also handling production duties.

    The Music Man readers might be interested to know that Jelly Roll told Howard Stern that he took inspiration from Bette Midler’s song “The Rose” when writing the song. He also dug into the writing of “Save Me” with Apple Music, stating that he wrote the song during a very dark time during the pandemic while also grieving for his father, who died the year prior.

  • Jon Horst Insists Trades Made By Milwaukee Bucks Are About Winning Now and Not Going Under the 2nd Apron

    Jon Horst Insists Trades Made By Milwaukee Bucks Are About Winning Now and Not Going Under the 2nd Apron

    There are notions that the Milwaukee Bucks got rid of Khris Middleton only because of his salary. Jon Horst insists that’s not the goal.

    Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst

    Jan 24, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst address the media after head coach Adrian Griffin (not pictured) was dismissed at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

    Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks

    Jul 14, 2021; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (22) is mobbed by teammates after making a shot during the fourth quarter against the Phoenix Suns during game four of the 2021 NBA Finals at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

    Some fans are not happy with the latest movement by the Bucks thinking they did not get better.

    The team acquired Kyle Kuzma in exchange for Middleton. They also now have Kevin Porter Jr. and big man Jericho Sims via different trade deals.

    Horst said the goal is to build a team that can win now and if they did get to dump salary and go under the second apron, that was just secondary.

    https://wisportsheroics.com/milwaukee-bucks-khris-middleton-post-fans/

    Jun 19, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks new general manager Jon Horst smiles as he answers questions during a news conference at the Milwaukee Bucks business operations office. Mandatory Credit: Mike De Sisti/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via USA TODAY Sports

    The goal and the intent from Jimmy (Haslam), Dee (Haslam), Wes (Edens), Jamie (Dinan), they’ve done nothing but resource this team and want to win,” Horst said in an interview with The Athletic.

    Hawks @ Magic – NBA Game Preview for February 10, 2025 07:00 PM EST

    “Their only mandate is, ‘We want to win this year. What do we do to try to win this year?’ And we believe that this gives us a better chance to win this year.

    “It happens to also put us under the second apron, which gives us some benefits going forward. There’s no question. And we’ll hopefully maximize those benefits. But that wasn’t the intent.”

    How are the Milwaukee Bucks after Khris Middleton trade?

    It is small small sample size but the new recruits are hardly making an impact. It is because they are yet to gain meaningful minutes except for Kyle Kuzma.

    Kuzma is fitting in just well for the Bucks although he is so far 1-2 as a Buck. He made his debut against the Atlanta Hawks wherein the team squandered an 18-point lead.

    They won against the Philadelphia 76ers at home and then lost to the visiting Golden State Warriors on the second night of a back-to-back.

    Kyle Kuzma, Milwaukee Bucks

    Feb 7, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (18) boxes out Atlanta Hawks forward Mouhamed Gueye (18) in the third quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

    Kuzma is currently averaging 15.3 points per game, three points better than Middleton.

    KPJ made his debut against the Warriors although his minutes were limited while Sims is yet to see action.

    The struggle cannot be attributed to them, however, as the team still deal with injuries, the most prominent was on Giannis Antetokounmpo who will not play a game until after the All-Star break.

    For more great Wisconsin sports content

    Follow us @WiSportsHeroics  for the latest and trending news about Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Marquette, and the rest of Wisconsin Sports. Stay updated by reading more of our Wisconsin Sports articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!

  • VIDEO: Travis Kelce Looked Like He Wanted To Cry While Walking To Locker Room After Chiefs’ Super Bowl Loss

    VIDEO: Travis Kelce Looked Like He Wanted To Cry While Walking To Locker Room After Chiefs’ Super Bowl Loss

    What an all-around terrible night for Travis Kelce and the Chiefs.

    Travis Kelce walking to locker room

    In arguably the most stunning result of the NFL postseason, the Kansas City Chiefs got blown out against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX on Sunday.

    If this is to be Kelce’s NFL curtain call, then he has left by finishing with four catches and 39 yards from six targets.

    Following the blowout, cameras caught the Chiefs headed to the locker room in stunned silence.

    Kelce looked as if he wanted to cry.

    Travis Kelce Set Career Record In Super Bowl

    Kelce previously teased that he may be retiring from the NFL after competing in Super Bowl LIX.

    If he does, he will go out with another record that was set.

    No player in 59 seasons has racked up as many receptions as the Kansas City Chiefs tight end has in the Super Bowl.

    On his third catch Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles, Kelce would surpass Jerry Rice for the most catches in Super Bowl history.

    Earlier this postseason, Kelce broke another one of Rice’s playoff records as he broke a tie with Rice for the most all-time 100-yard playoff games.

    Travis Kelce Is Being Called Out For His Selfish Behavior Ahead Of Super Bowl 59

    Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were spotted on a date night ahead of Super Bowl LIX.

    Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift hugging

    Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift (Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)

    The couple managed to sneak away for a double date dinner with Kelce’s Kansas City Chiefs teammate, Patrick Mahomes, and his wife, Brittany, at the French restaurant Lilette in New Orleans Friday.

    The celebrity pairs could be seen stepping out hand in hand, as Swift stunned in a stylish black lace dress, matching black shoes, and her signature red lipstick.

    Travis sported a gray tracksuit with a white shirt and sneakers.

    For Patrick, he rocked a black jacket with silver buttons and a white graphic T-shirt. His wife Brittany stepped out in a large red trench coat with matching boots.

    Many fans did not like Travis Kelce’s decision to go out like that just days before the biggest game of the year.

    “One of the few times when Patrick isn’t the center of attention,” one fan said.

    “Unfocused,” another fan said of the two being out.

    “Looks like Taylor went on very staged fake date with her fake boyfriend who is dressed like he shops at Ross Dress for Less,” a third person added.

    “How did all these people know they were there?” one fan asked.

    “I am so sick of them,” another person said of Travis Kelce and the others.

    “Who cares? I like mahomie and wife but the other 2 pukes no thanks,” one person said of Kelce and Swift.

    Travis Kelce Has Bad Experience In New Orleans From His College Days

    Travis Kelce has come a long way from the last time he had a big game in New Orleans.

    In 2010, Kelce tested positive for cannabis, landing himself on the University of Cincinnati’s suspended list after the Bearcats played in the Sugar Bowl.

    He was kicked out of the University of Cincinnati as a result of losing his scholarship.

    He eventually re-joined the team, but since the team had three new QBs ahead of him on the depth chart, Kelce was urged to make the switch to tight-end.

    That would change the course of history.

  • Giannis shares his cherished wedding memory during Bucks Media Day

    Giannis shares his cherished wedding memory during Bucks Media Day

    Speaking candidly about his nuptials to longterm companion Mariah Riddlesprigger, Giannis Antetokounmpo shared his favorite part of the festivities.

    Giannis Antetokounmpo opened up about his wedding to longtime partner Mariah Riddlesprigger, revealing his favorite moment of the celebration

    During the team’s media day, forward Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks revealed a personal tidbit about his recent marriage.

    Giannis was open about his favorite part of the celebration after tying the knot with his longtime love Mariah Riddlesprigger in a quiet ceremony outside of Pylos, Greece.

    “I think the wedding night after the wedding, that was my favorite part,” he stated.

    Speaking about the eagerly awaited occasion, Giannis conveyed his joy at being married for the first time.

    “I’m overjoyed that we were able to complete this. It has been a while. Giannis laughed, “I’ve been feeling some heat for a long time.

    Family, friends, and prominent sports leaders attended the little gathering. Khris Middleton, Giannis’s colleague, performed as best man.

    “I was happy that our friends, loved ones, you know, came in to support us,” he stated.

    According to reports, Serena Williams, the tennis great, several Bucks teammates, and NBA players LeBron James and Jrue Holiday were among the guests.

  • BREAKING: Former Rams Player And Beloved Hollywood Actor Has Tragically Passed Away

    BREAKING: Former Rams Player And Beloved Hollywood Actor Has Tragically Passed Away

    The sports world, as well as Hollywood, is in deep mourning over the tragic and sudden death of Peter Navy Tuiasosopo.

    Los Angeles Rams helmet

    Los Angeles Rams helmet (Eric Hartline-Imagn Images)

    Tuiasosopo, known for his work on Street Fighter, Necessary Roughness, and The Fast and the Furious, among many others, shocked many people when he suddenly passed away on Monday, according to what his Manoah Peter Tuiasosopo announced on Facebook.

    “With a heavy heart, my family and I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. Our father Peter N. Tuiasosopo passed away this morning at 3:16 am,” he wrote.

    A cause of death wasn’t revealed in the post, but Manoah Peter Tuiasosopo later told TMZ that Peter Navy Tuiasosopo died from heart complications in Phoenix, Arizona.

    Tuiasosopo began his acting career in 1991 with his first film role as Manumana, “The Slender.” He went on to co-star in his first television series, Danger Theatre, as detective Al Hamoki opposite Adam West.

    His other television credits include the role of custodian and ex-sumo wrestler Yoshi Nakamura in the Disney series Kickin’ It.

    Tuiasosopo also has film credits that include the role of Willie Dumaine in 12 Rounds with John Cena, as well as Batman & Robin, BASEketball, Charlie’s Angels, Austin Powers in Gold Member, and The Scorpion King, among others.

    Peter Navy Tuiasosopo Had A Background In Football

    Veteran actor Peter Navy Tuiasosopo tragically passed away at the age of 61.

    Tuiasosopo’s son revealed that he died of heart complications on Monday morning in Phoenix, Arizona.

    Aside from his acting career, Peter Navy Tuiasosopo had a background in football.

    He played college football at Utah State and went undrafted in the 1987 NFL Draft.

    He would go on to play two seasons for the Los Angeles Rams before he would transition into acting.

    Superstar NFL Wide Receiver Drops Major Hint That His Team Will Trade For Rams QB Matthew Stafford

    Matthew Stafford calling a play.

    Matthew Stafford (Photo by Bill Streicher-Imagn Images)

    Amid rumors that the Los Angeles Rams will shop quarterback Matthew Stafford, one top NFL wide receiver has fueled speculation that his team could pursue a trade for the 36-year-old.

    Last week, it was reported that Matthew Stafford decided to continue playing rather than retire. Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer explained on “The Dan Patrick Show” earlier this week that the Super Bowl 56-winning quarterback could be available in a trade.

    New York Giants superstar wide receiver Malik Nabers created a buzz on social media when he hinted at his team trading for both Stafford and Cooper Kupp. The latter announced on X/Twitter earlier this week that the Rams intend to trade him.

    In a since-deleted X post, Nabers wrote, “9 and 10 🐏👀”, a reference to the jersey numbers donned by Stafford and Kupp.

    Nabers was asked about this post in his appearance on “Fantasy Football Happy Hour” with Matthew Berry, where he further fueled the Giants-Stafford trade rumor:

    “His arm talent is crazy. His sidearm is crazy. The way he throws the ball, his angles, it’s crazy. He knows the defense. He’s a veteran quarterback. He led that team to the playoffs without those receivers he was playing with at the beginning of the season when they were hurt. Then when he got them back, he was able to do a lot of great things. I like the way he throws the football.”

    The Giants will be in the market for a new starting quarterback this offseason, having released starter Daniel Jones in November. They could target a quarterback like Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders with the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but an offensive-minded head coach like Brian Daboll may also be keen to work with an established veteran like Matthew Stafford.

    Rams Should Keep Matthew Stafford

    Neither the Rams nor Stafford have hinted at a possible trade. Having gotten Los Angeles within a couple of plays of the NFC Championship Game, the best is for this marriage to continue in 2025.

  • BREAKING: Jelly Roll Joins ‘American Idol’ Cast After Fans Beg ABC to Hire Him

    BREAKING: Jelly Roll Joins ‘American Idol’ Cast After Fans Beg ABC to Hire Him

    In a surprise move, “American Idol” producers announced on February 4, 2025, that the show’s 23rd season will not just have one new cast member, but two.

    Ryan Seacrest, Jelly Roll

    In addition to Carrie Underwood joining the series as a judge alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, red-hot country star Jelly Roll will be the show’s first-ever “artist-in-residence,” according to Variety. The move fulfills the wish of many “Idol” fans who begged ABC in 2024 to add Jelly Roll as a regular to the series after he appeared as a mentor to contestants early in season 22.

    In an Instagram video about the announcement, Jelly Roll wrote, “Honored to be Idol’s first-ever ARTIST IN RESIDENCE—mentoring with heart, soul, and real experience! 🎤💥”

    ABC Says Jelly Roll Will Become a ‘Permanent Fixture’ on ‘American Idol’

    Jelly Roll will appear as an “artist-in-residence” during season 23’s Hollywood Week episodes, which were filmed in late January, and will continue to appear on the show throughout the season, Variety reported.

    In a press release, ABC said that Jelly Roll — a Nashville-based rapper-turned-country superstar who cleaned up his life after spending years in prison — will become “a permanent fixture this season and will work closely with the Idol hopefuls, giving them firsthand advice on how to navigate the journey.”

    Shortly after the announcement, the social media team at “American Idol” shared Variety’s article in the show’s Instagram Stories and wrote, YES!! Get hyped for more @jellyroll615 on IDOL!”

    Fans Begged ABC to Add Jelly Roll to ‘American Idol’ Cast in 2024

    Jelly Roll and “Idol” alum Tori Kelly both served as mentors to contestants who made it through Hollywood Week and moved onto compete in at Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa in Hawaii. Jelly Roll mentored half of the contestants, and his work with them drew rave reviews from fans and the judges.

    Jelly Roll Is Joining American Idol But NOT As a Judge | E! News

    A self-professed “Idol” fan for years, Jelly Roll, live-tweeted when his season 22 episode aired on April 8, sharing how much he loved working with the contestants. Much to fans’ delight, he tweeted, “i could get used to doing this. #americanidol #jellytime”

    Fans flooded social media during and after his appearance, begging ABC executives to hire Jelly Roll to replace Katy Perry, who had announced in February that she’d be leaving the show at the end of the season.

    One person tweeted, “You were the best mentor I’ve ever seen on the show… and I’ve been watching since the beginning. You’d make a great judge. You could be the Fab Four. ?”

    Someone else suggested, “When Katy leaves at the end of the year, you can take her place.”

    Even Perry was on board with the idea, telling E! News a week after his appearance, “I gotta say Jelly Roll was crazy when he came on the show. I was convinced at anything he said. He could run for president, he could be my pastor, I might go back to church for him. He could sell me anything.”

    Eventually, the show hired season 4 winner Carrie Underwood, also a megastar in country music, to replace Perry at the judge’s table. She has also begun filming the new season, which will debut on ABC on March 9.

  • Bucks’ Damian Lillard added to injury report for Warriors game without Giannis

    Bucks’ Damian Lillard added to injury report for Warriors game without Giannis

    Damian Lillard has an injury designation ahead of Bucks-Warriors game

    Bucks' Damian Lillard, Warriors

    The Milwaukee Bucks (28-23) begin a challenging stretch, with Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined through the NBA All-Star break with a mild calf strain. His injury absence puts the onus on the team’s other star player, Damian Lillard, to carry much of the offensive burden for at least the next few games. His availability is no guarantee, however.

    The former All-NBA First-Team selection is on the injury report for Monday’s showdown with the Golden State Warriors (26-26). He is listed questionable with right hamstring soreness, per the Bucks’ X account.

    This development follows Lillard’s magnificent performance in Sunday’s 135-127 win versus the Philadelphia 76ers. The 34-year-old point guard posted a game-high 43 points on 14-of-23 shooting and eight assists to go along with seven rebounds and two steals, as Milwaukee survived another huge Tyrese Maxey outing (39 points, 69.6 percent shooting).

    Lillard put on a thrilling show in Fiserv Forum on what was a farewell tribute to the legendary Hubie Brown. He might not get the opportunity to exhilarate the home crowd versus Golden State, though. Considering the nine-time All-Star is dealing with some hamstring discomfort going into the second game of a back-to-back, head coach Doc Rivers and the training staff might decide to err on the side of caution.

    Will Damian Lillard play tonight against the LA Clippers? Latest update on  the Milwaukee Bucks star's injury report (January 25, 2025) | NBA News -  The Times of India

    Bucks might have to lean on their trade acquisition

    Whether or not Lillard plays against the Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler-led Warriors, Kyle Kuzma will probably need to come through for the Bucks. The recently acquired forward has scuffled on offense in his first two games with the team (34.6 field goal percentage) but is impressing Rivers with his energy and effort. He recorded eight rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block in 36 minutes against the 76ers.

    Kuzma must stay active, especially with Antetokounmpo nursing an injury and Lillard not feeling so fresh himself. Perhaps he can find his shooting stroke against the invading Warriors. The Bucks are currently in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Indiana Pacers by one game and holding a two-game cushion over the Detroit Pistons. While they are not in a desperate state at the moment, a rough stretch can leave them vulnerable at the All-Star break.

    Bucks Injury Report: Damian Lillard in Danger of Missing Matchup vs Warriors

    A healthy Damian Lillard can possibly prevent a skid. He is averaging 25.5 points, 7.5 dimes, 4.7 boards, and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 38.3 percent from 3-point land this season. ClutchPoints will monitor his status for the Milwaukee-Golden State matchup.

    Alex House is a sports journalist who covers the NFL, NBA, and MLB for ClutchPoints, providing a unique writing voice due to his in-depth knowledge of New York sports. Alex resides in Connecticut after receiving his journalism degree from the University of Rhode Island.