Author: lehang

Milwaukee Bucks pulled one out in grand style for their third in a row on Wednesday evening as they mounted to a thorough 130-112 beat down of the Toronto Raptors. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard lit up the scoreboard with 61 combined. Giannis had 35 points and 13 rebounds, while Dame had 26 points. They offered advice to their opponents on the very reasons why this duo is among the best in the league.

Despite the scoreboard telling a happy tale, Head Coach Doc Rivers had mixed feelings about the game. The team built a big early lead, but he wasn’t thrilled with their defensive effort or ball movement at times. “We can’t just trade baskets,” Rivers said post-game. His comments show the Bucks aren’t just chasing wins—they’re chasing greatness.

Despite the scoreboard telling a happy tale, Head Coach Doc Rivers had mixed feelings about the game. The team built a big early lead, but he wasn’t thrilled with their defensive effort or ball movement at times. “We can’t just trade baskets,” Rivers said post-game. His comments show the Bucks aren’t just chasing wins—they’re chasing greatness.

The win also marked the Bucks’ first season series sweep of the Raptors since 2012-13. That’s a satisfying milestone, but Rivers’ focus remains on the bigger picture. With playoffs on the horizon, the team has areas to fine-tune, even as they continue to rack up wins.

Doc Rivers: Defensive Consistency Still a Work in Progress

For all their offensive firepower, the Bucks’ defense remains a talking point. Rivers didn’t hold back his frustrations about the team’s lapses after their dominant first quarter. “We’ve been telling the guys: defense isn’t something you can take breaks from,” he said. “We need the same intensity from start to finish.”

For all their offensive firepower, the Bucks’ defense remains a talking point. Rivers didn’t hold back his frustrations about the team’s lapses after their dominant first quarter. “We’ve been telling the guys: defense isn’t something you can take breaks from,” he said. “We need the same intensity from start to finish.”

USA Today via Reuters

The Bucks got off to a great start and built a comfortable lead. But their second-quarter defensive letdown allowed the Raptors to make some mini-runs. The final score wasn’t really in doubt, but games like this are reminders. Good teams capitalize on mistakes, and great teams don’t let them happen.

Things weren’t great on the offensive side either. The ball didn’t move like it was supposed to, especially during the second half. “We’ve been good at setting the tone early,” Rivers said. “But we need to keep that rhythm going for all four quarters.” How the Bucks play physically and consistently will be their biggest test as they face tougher opponents.

Adding a little late-game drama was a fourth-quarter moment when Raptors coach Nick Nurse called a timeout and cleared his bench. Rivers, expecting a different play, quickly adjusted by subbing out his starters too. “I thought he was running a set, but then I saw what he was doing, so we matched him,” Rivers explained. It’s a small moment, but it reflects the chess match that happens even in seemingly lopsided games.

This win was another step in the right direction, and the Bucks’ three-game streak is proof they’re finding their groove. But as Rivers keeps reminding his players, there’s always more to improve. If Milwaukee can lock in on both ends of the floor, they’ll be a nightmare matchup for anyone to come playoff time.

Phoenix Suns had made big moves in the 2023 offseason, thinking they’d put together a powerhouse. By adding 3x All-Star Bradley Beal alongside KD and Devin Booker, they were set to dominate. The trio looked unstoppable on paper, right? But when the season played out, it turned into a big disappointment—zero playoff wins. Well, this might be the reason, the big three are getting dismantled.

Bradley Beal is hoping to suit up for Monday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. He’s missed the last two games due to a left ankle sprain, but he’s feeling good about his chances of finally returning. “As long as I can move like Brad, I’m good,” Beal said, keeping his usual confidence.

He worked out after Sunday’s practice at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, where he showcased some solid movement—dribbling, cutting, and even jumping with ease.

“It feels better,” Beal said while looking dejected, giving a positive update on his ankle. But as the trade deadline draws close, he might just not be on the roster anymore.

It’s been good. It’s been smooth. I haven’t had any setbacks or anything. All the imaging came back what we expected to be nothing crazy,” he said about his progress. When reporter Duane Rankin asked him about tomorrow’s availability, “I hope so,” Beal assured.

The Suns are aggressively pursuing Jimmy Butler, but they might not be the only team in the mix. While the Bucks have shown interest in JB in the past, they may not land him directly. For a deal between Phoenix and Miami to work, Bradley Beal would need to be included to match salaries, but the Heat reportedly aren’t thrilled about taking on Beal’s contract.
This is where the Bucks could step in.

If a third team gets involved, the Bucks could potentially play a role without landing Butler themselves. Marc Stein believes they have been more inclined to rekindle their interest in Beal rather than Butler if they’re looking to acquire a player in the $50 million range.

You might remember the Bucks showed interest in Beal during the summer of 2023 before he ultimately went to Phoenix. After that, they pivoted to targeting Dame. But now, they could be circling back to Beal as they keep options open. Interesting times ahead, right?

Should the Bucks get Bradley Beal despite his defensive shortcomings?

The Bucks could potentially land Bradley Beal, but it would take some serious cap flexibility and maybe a little pleading on Beal’s part. But here’s the kicker: Should they even want him? It’s a tricky situation. He doesn’t fill the defensive gap the Bucks are struggling with.

We’ve seen this movie before—Damian Lillard’s time in Portland next to CJ McCollum, both smaller, offense-first guys. They didn’t have a Giannis, and we all saw how that duo played out on defense.

Now, Bobby Portis is an offensive asset, no doubt. But with the Bucks already stacked with offensive talent and some pricey starters in the frontcourt, Portis as the Sixth man feels like a true luxury. And let’s not forget, Khris Middleton’s been dealing with injury questions for a while. So, maybe adding Bradley Beal could offer some solid production, even if he’s not a perfect fit.

USA Today via Reuters

With Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bradley Beal, currently on a $251 million 5-year deal, might just thrive more than he did with Devin Booker or Kevin Durant. A fresh start could be what he needs.
That said, there’s no clear indication of any active trade talks for Beal at the moment. But desperation is a powerful thing, and both Butler and the Suns are clearly feeling that right now. Desperation often opens up new opportunities, and if the Bucks spot one, don’t be shocked if they make a move. It wouldn’t be as wild as it sounds.

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo took to social media platform Instagram to express his gratitude and excitement as he showcased his latest achievement. The NBA Finals MVP shared a photo of himself with a collection of luxury timepieces, highlighting his partnership with renowned Swiss watchmaker Breitling.

In his heartfelt caption, Giannis reflected on his humble beginnings and the journey that has led him to this remarkable point in his career. “Used to sell watches and now I have a few of my own! Thank you @breitling 🙏🏽🧿,” he wrote, accompanied by the photo that captured the attention of his millions of followers.

The Greek Freak’s rise from selling watches on the streets to becoming one of the brightest stars in the basketball world is nothing short of inspiring. Giannis has consistently demonstrated his dedication, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence, both on and off the court.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s partnership with Breitling signifies another significant milestone in his ever-expanding brand portfolio. Known for their precision and craftsmanship, Breitling watches perfectly align with Giannis’ pursuit of greatness and his commitment to excellence.

The collaboration between Giannis and Breitling is expected to bring forth exciting opportunities and unique timepiece designs that reflect the basketball phenom’s personal style and values. As a global ambassador for the brand, Giannis will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the world of horology, just as he has done in the realm of basketball.

Fans and admirers anxiously anticipate the presentation of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s exclusive trademark timepieces, which are intended to showcase his unique flare and personality. Giannis’ contagious excitement and unwavering work ethic continue to inspire people all across the world, reminding them that dreams can come true.

As Giannis Antetokounmpo’s popularity rises, his relationship with Breitling demonstrates his astonishing path from selling watches to owning his own, cementing his standing as not just an exceptional player but also a real role model for striving individuals throughout the world.

The Texans were never good enough. Not to stop history in the making. They lost 7 games in the regular season. However, since they won the wild card game against the Chargers, some thought they might be able to stand up to the Chiefs. But CJ Stroud failed to produce the same magic at the Arrowhead and lost 23-14. But his reaction to the game officials was unexpected.

Fans Lose Respect for CJ Stroud as Calls Mount Against Texans QB’s Dig Against Chiefs Over Controversial Refereeing© Provided by EssentiallySports

During the post-game conference, the Texans QB said, “I’m not gonna go back and forth on what I thought was a call when it wasn’t a call. It’s one of those things you kind of notice before you walk in that arena. I can’t argue with the ref, and at the same time, play football.” No one could have expected that the young QB would place the blame on referees instead of owning up to his performance.

The Chiefs’ HC Andy Reid won 300th game of his NFL career. And it came at the right time. But the Texans’ had a plan. Even the HC DeMeco Ryans had a similar mindset. He also took a subtle dig at the Chiefs, claiming they knew that it was going to be them against everybody. The only thing CJ Stroud and his coach didn’t show was accountability.
While they lost against the Chiefs by 23-14 today, they lost the 2023 divisional game against the Ravens by even more difference with 34-10. Who was responsible, then? Well, the HC and the QB praised the team and their staff. But didn’t show the same view on Saturday. And if we talk about the penalties too, here’s an interesting number.

CJ Stroud complained about penalties against the Chiefs as they finished with 8 penalties for 82 yards. But against Ravens last season, they had 11 penalties for 70 yards. These statements made many footballs fans angry who had some good views about the Texans QB.

Fans troll CJ Stroud for his post-game comments

One fan mentioned many legends, like Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan. They asked a simple question – when did they blame the referees for their losses? They added, “Wow, did not expect CJ Stroud to have the same line about the officiating. Thought he was more of a leader than that.” CJ Stroud did the unthinkable for many fans.

Another fan couldn’t believe that the Texans had raised doubts and wrote, “My God. Is there one player on the Texans that has the guts to own up to their shitty plays all day?!?! Liked them a lot before the game but this is just ridiculous.” Where was the O-line to protect their signal caller? He was sacked not once or twice, but 8 times. But another fan aimed directly at CJ Stroud and called him out for not performing and his cheap tactics, saying, “Wow. Used to think Stroud was a decent guy, but even he has turned into a victim culture crybaby? Zero respect. Take responsibility, young man. It looks way better than bitching.”

Another fan kept a close watch on the criticism of referees and asked how one bad call cost him the entire game. While mentioning the sacks, he wrote, “Lol, cope harder, bro! One bad call and it cost him the game? No mention of being sacked 8 times?” However, one fan cleared everything about his stance with a 6-word message that was, “Lost some respect for this guy.”

Overall, it was a good game. But the Chiefs moved to the next round at the Arrowhead. The Texans need to regroup and start all over again.

Caitlin Clark was mainstream throughout the 2024 WNBA season. It wasn’t just the spotlight she gained but also the reception she received from other players and past players. As a generational talent, she was thrust into the limelight with more scrutiny than most rookies face, and it was amplified when she was named Time’s Athlete of the Year at the end of her rookie season.

Veteran guidance

Transitioning to the WNBA didn’t come easy for the Indiana Fever guard. While her on-court performances were good, she has had to battle rough tackles and fouls on the court and criticisms off it. She received all the spotlight, and it seemed everyone was watching the WNBA because of her. Players felt overshadowed by her rise, while critics dissected her every move. Yet, the rookie had a voice of support from Hall of Famer and Fever legend Tamika Catchings.

“She was one of the first people to text me after I got picked and still checks in on me,” Clark said of Catchings. “So it’s cool, somebody that’s not in your building every day but means so much to your community and the organization… She’s like a legend. Her number is up in the rafters. That’s somebody I idolized and looked up to. For her to take two seconds to check in on me and see how I’m doing, that’s obviously really special.”

Catchings, a former Rookie of the Year and one of the most celebrated players in WNBA history understood the pressures the 22-year-old faced. During her own rookie season in 2002, the Fever legend navigated similar challenges, albeit in a different era and cultural significance.

Clark’s connection to the Hall of Famer was personal, giving her a sense of embracing the moment and playing through criticisms. It was needed if she was to become the face of women’s basketball.

A storied footsteps

Playing 15 seasons with Indiana, the retired forward went from winning the MVP in 2011 to leading the Fever to their first-ever championship in 2012, earning Finals MVP honors. She also set the bar impossibly high as a four-time Olympic gold medalist with Team USA. Her No. 24 jersey now hangs in the rafters of Gainbridge Fieldhouse, a permanent reminder of her legacy—one that Clark will hope to recreate.

“Her championship trophy that she won sits in our locker room,” said the Fever guard. “It’s like right next to my locker…so I have to look at it every day.”

The Iowa product is undoubtedly on the right track. Her rookie season showed her bright future. She earned the WNBA Rookie of the Year title in a season that drew record-breaking viewership, transforming her into a household name.

The connection between the rookie and the legend could go a long way to serve as a blueprint for greatness. If going by what she encountered in her first season, the former Hawkeyes will face a lot of adversity if she wants to become a legend.

Caitlin Clark is going through something no person should ever have to. No doubt, the WNBA has thrived this year but it has also attracted many negative eyes. While the entire 28th season revolved around Clark being one of the most polarizing figures to ever exist in the basketball world and how that has impacted the other players, no one really asked what the 22-year-old has been going through. Although she prefers to respond with her dynamic playing style, Clark has remained silent otherwise. But seems like her true likers are here to take her side.

Hate Against Caitlin Clark Pushed Too Far as Rachel DeMita Exposes Absurd Social Media Narratives

On the podcast Courtside Club, the host Rachel DeMita had a lot to say about the young star. “I’m sure, on the daily, she gets weird messages, she gets hateful messages, she gets trolling, she gets all of those things on her social media accounts,” said Rachel, emphasizing that the sheer level of stardom Caitlin Clark has achieved has led to immense scrutiny from the public.

“So many people within the WNBA sphere thought that she was the Golden Child and she was only getting praise… I feel like she carried the weight of the world on her shoulders while just trying to play basketball as a 22-year-old.”

The Fever star has dealt with the hate, the love, and everything in between in her short time in the league. Surprisingly, the criticism was not just from the followers of the sport but even the veterans and the current players at times, making it only harder for the Des Moines native to focus on her job.

“I think the absolute best way to deal with trolls, to deal with someone threatening you, to deal with any of these things is to not respond. Do not engage, and keep receipt of those things, and I’m sure that’s what she was doing here,” said DeMita.

Time and again, Clark has remained silent in the face of criticism, focusing on what is actually important to her—basketball. Averaging nearly 20 pts, leading the league with 8.4 assists, and grabbing 6 rebounds is not normal for a rookie. Surely not becoming the very first WNBA rookie to get not just one but two triple-doubles. But people have always known her as a ‘ball is life’ kind of athlete.

In fact, there ran a narrative that everyone in the WNBA hated the point guard just because of the attention she grabbed. A rivalry with Angel Reese, becoming the face of the league, and a lot of criticism were all things she dealt with in her rookie year.

To go from being such a debated figure to winning the Rookie of the Year and being awarded the Time’s Athlete of the Year, Clark is really good at shutting out all the noise. And yet the question persists, is she all that?

Has Clark lived up to the expectations?

We know how much people love Caitlin Clark. Her time in Iowa was nothing short of legendary, and she broke hundreds of records. However, has the Indiana Fever star really lived up to the expectations fans had for her?

Clark is great at passing the ball, and she shoots the living daylights out of the ball. Even legends like LeBron James and Luka Doncic admit that she can shoot the three-ball. “The women’s Steph Curry.” The Slovenian guard called her, saying the Fever No. 22 can shoot better than him.

When praise comes from people like LeBron and Luka, you know that the Iowa alum is something special. Not to mention, LeBron is a full-fledged fan of Caitlin and compared her rookie year to his own in terms of the expectations they both had.

It must be tough for a rookie to have the kind of expectations that Clark had. Expectations were high. People expected Clark to become the face of the league, an All-Star. Some even had her as the MVP, where she landed in the top-5 spots, only sharing the stage as a rookie with Candace Parker. In spite of all this, Clark kept her wits about her as she entered the league. But has she done what LeBron managed to do? Has she lived up to the expectations?

Sep 25, 2024; Uncasville, Connecticut, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) possesses the ball during the first half against the Connecticut Sun during game two of the first round of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs at Mohegan Sun Arena. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images

As the reigning Rookie of the Year, and Times Athlete of the Year, some would say she has. Averaging solid numbers of 19.2ppg, 5.7rpg, and 8.4 apg, Caitlin Clark’s rookie year has been amazing. Since her entry into the league, viewership numbers have gone way up.

The WNBA recorded an all-time record of more than 54 million unique viewers, and attendance was up by about 48% from last season. On top of that, the Indiana Fever star broke the WNBA’s single-season assist record, putting up 322 assists in her rookie year.

As a future MVP and Olympics candidate, Caitlin Clark has cemented her place in the hearts of fans across the world. With the bar set very high, she has done her best to surpass every expectation that was put in front of her. Even with all of the hate, in spite of public narratives being unstable, she has delivered. Above all, it will be interesting to see what she does next.

Khris Middleton’s name is getting dragged to trade rumors and his reported move involving his family is not helping, leaving Milwaukee Bucks fans asking question.

Jan 17, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (22) drives to the basket against the Toronto Raptors in the second half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images

Oct 30, 2023; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Miami Heat center Jimmy Butler (22) stands between Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and center Khris Middleton (22) after a foul in the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

A Bucks fan posted on X about Middleton’s decision to sell his house and expressed sadness that this might be a hint that he will be shipped away soon. The post now has 50,000 views.

The biggest rumor is centered around Bucks’ reported interest on Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler who requested a trade amid a reported feud with president Pat Riley.

Middleton, who has played just 17 out of the team’s 40 games, is being used as a scapegoat by some team supporters, especially after he was moved by Doc Rivers into a sixth man this month.

ClutchPoints writer Brett Siegel wrote on January 18 that the Bucks are emerging as a dark horse to sign their 2023 playoffs tormentor.

Jan 10, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA;Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (22) looks on against the Orlando Magic in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Fans were quick to react on Gaestel’s post.

“Im gonna throw up (if true),” wrote Khris Middleton is Good fan account.

The truth on Khris Middleton’s house sale

While some fans were quick to feel negative things about this news, others allayed fears he is leaving.

He remains a fan favorite Middleton and dismantling the squad is no longer a concern as the Bucks are on a three-game win streak.j

The X user’s worry is valid but Middleton actually put his house for sale up in August of 2024.

Mar 13, 2023; Sacramento, California, USA; Milwaukee Bucks power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) puts his arm around small forward Khris Middleton (22) during the third quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Some comments also clarified that K-Midd looked for a new house near the city of Wisconsin to be in the same neighborhood as his superstar teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo.

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When it comes to Beyoncé’s exclusion from the 2024 CMA Awards nominees list, Dolly Parton can’t help but wonder whether the awards show is simply offering preference to the artists who do country music full-time.

“I guess probably, the country music field, they probably thought, ‘Well, we can’t really leave out some of the ones who spend their whole life doing that,’” Parton theorized when asked about the shut-out during an interview with Variety.

The country legend was in that interview to promote Good Lookin’ Cookin’, the cookbook she co-authored with her sister Rachel Parton George, along with the book’s accompanying line of Home Chef meals.

But she also spoke to two musical collaborations she’s been a part of this year: Her reimagined “Jolene” on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album, and her duet with Post Malone, “Have the Heart,” which is featured on his first-ever full country project, F-1 Trillion.

“[Beyoncé]’s a country girl in Texas and Louisiana, so she grew up with that base. It wasn’t like she just appeared out of nowhere,” she pointed out. “Post Malone has loved country music his whole life…I thought both those albums were great.”

Though Cowboy Carter didn’t receive any nominations at this year’s CMA Awards — despite being eligible for categories like Album of the Year, Musical Event of the Year and Single of the Year — Parton says that doesn’t take away from the project’s impact.

“It was a wonderful album. She can be very, very proud of, and I think everybody in country music welcomed her and thought that, that was good,” she goes on to say. “So I don’t think it was a matter of shutting out, like, doing that on purpose. I think it was just more of what the country charts and the country artists were doing, that do that all the time, not just a specialty album.”

Post is a four-time nominee at the 2024 CMAs, and there’s a strong possibility that F-1 Trillion will bring him nominations next year, too, since the album was released after the cut-off for inclusion in the Album of the Year category for this year’s show. All four of his current nominations are for his smash hit with Morgan Wallen, “I Had Some Help.”

Even though Beyoncé might not be a nominated artist at this year’s CMA Awards, you never know: There could still be an opportunity for her to have an onstage moment at the show, maybe even with Parton herself. When asked if she’d ever perform “Jolene” as a duet with Beyoncé, the country legend was enthusiastic.

“Oh yeah,” she said. “I’m open to anything.”

The 2024 CMA Awards will air on ABC on Nov. 20.

024 CMA Awards Nominations: Biggest Snubs + Surprises, Ranked

Country music fans should be a little angry today. Nominees for the 2024 CMA Awards were announced, and missing are several of the genre’s top stars, including two who’ve anchored the format for nearly 20 years.

10. Snub: Carrie Underwood

Dia Dipasupil, Getty Images

10. Snub: Carrie Underwood

Last year Carrie Underwood was an Entertainer of the Year nominee. This year, she didn’t get mentioned at all! She’s not currently in an album cycle, so any case for her in EOTY or Female Vocalist of the Year categories would rest with her Las Vegas residency. It’s surprising not to see her nominated for the first time ever, but not shocking.

9. Snub: Miranda Lambert

Jason Kempin, Getty Images

9. Snub: Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert’s streak of 17 straight years with a Female Vocalist of the Year nomination comes to an end in 2024. Like Underwood, the 2024 CMAs caught her out of an album cycle and somewhat between record labels. Yes, she’s with Big Loud, but if they were to push for her nomination, they’d be doing it on the strength of her Sony career, plus “Wranglers.” It’s going to be weird not to see either her or Underwood at the show this year.

8. Snub: Nate Smith, World on Fire

Jason Kempin, Getty Images

8. Snub: Nate Smith, “World on Fire”

Nate Smith’s “World on Fire” spent 10 weeks at No. 1, tying Morgan Wallen’s record. That wasn’t enough for a Single of the Year nomination.

Part of why this ballad was able to span two-and-a-half-months was the holidays, when record labels aren’t really working the phones to get to No. 1. His light catalog also made it easy for this slow-burner to maintain maximum airplay. Maybe it’s not a Song of the Year contender, but any song with that much airplay should be in the Single category.

No. 7: Surprise: Kacey Mugraves

Jason Kempin, Getty Images

No. 7: Surprise: Kacey Mugraves

Artistically, Kacey Musgraves deserves each and everyone of her CMA nominations in 2024, but typically the artists who aim their arrow at mainstream country radio get the artist-based nominations. It’s refreshing to see her hold a spot in the Female category.

No. 6: Snub: Parmalee

Carly Mackler, Getty Images

No. 6: Snub: Parmalee

Hey, it’s us — just over here waving the flag for Parmalee, the most snubbed country act of the last five years. This group continue to churn out radio hits, but can’t crack a very weak Vocal Group category. It’s mystifying.

No. 5: Surprise: Jelly Roll, Whitsitt Chapel

Broken Bow Records

No. 5: Surprise: Jelly Roll, ‘Whitsitt Chapel’

Jelly Roll was praised for a lot in 2023 and 2024, but his album was rarely talked about in Album of the Year conversations. It’s a strong effort, but he seemed much more likely to nab Song or Single of the Year nominations.

His Entertainer of the Year nom is no surprise. He very well could win it.

No. 4: Snub: Post Malone

Jason Kempin, Getty Images

No. 4: Snub: Post Malone

Post Malone earned four nominations, but didn’t get one in the Male Vocalist or New Artist category. He should have. He’s the Jelly Roll of 2024.

No. 3: Snub: Beyonce

Amy Sussman, Getty Images

No. 3: Snub: Beyonce

There is going to be a lot written this week about why Beyonce deserved some CMA love. She truly did. Cowboy Carter got us through a very sleepy first half of 2024, and her music pushed the genre forward in meaningful ways. If nothing else, she should have been mentioned in Single of the Year or the uninspiring Album of the Year category.

No. 2: Snub: Zach Bryan

Keith Griner, Getty Images

No. 2: Snub: Zach Bryan

Zach Bryan is at or near the top of streaming and sales charts most weeks, and his tour is one of the biggest in country music. He represents a much bigger snub, however …

No. 1: Snub: Country Music Fans

Frazer Harrison, Getty Images

No. 1: Snub: Country Music Fans

Nominations for the 2024 CMA Awards are nearly a replica of the 2024 ACM Awards. The only difference in the Entertainment, Male, Female, Group and Duo categories is Flatland Calvary is out, and the Red Clay Strays are in. The ACMs also added a few extra EOTY nominees, but the same five are at the core. It’s like voters forgot to submit until the last minute and just copy-pasted what they wrote last time. That’s an insult to fans who (whether they admit it or not) look to ACM/CMA/CMT voters as tastemakers. This set of nominees lacks the most popular streaming artists (Beyonce, Post Malone, Zach Bryan) and the most popular live artists (similar list, plus Kenny Chesney).

Who’s stopping Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo? The Orlando Magic certainly were not the answer to that question, as they had no answer to the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player in Tuesday night’s NBA Cup quarterfinal round game at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.

Dec 10, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts after the Bucks defeated the Orlando Magic at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Antetokounmpo basically got what he wanted when he wanted in the 114-109 win over the Magic, as he finished the game with 37 points on 15-for-24 shooting from the floor while also racking up seven rebounds, four blocks, two assists, and a steal in 36 minutes of action.

Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo keeps incredible stretch alive

Dec 10, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts after the Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Orlando Magic as Magic forward Tristan da Silva (23) looks on at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

With yet another scintillating and efficient showing offensively, Antetokounmpo continued a hot streak to start the 2024-25 NBA regular season and moved closer to tying and breaking a record jointly held by former NBA superstar center Shaquille O’Neal and New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson.

Antetokounmpo extended his streak to 22 straight games with 20 or more points on 50% shooting, the longest streak to open a season in league history and the third-longest at any point in a season (Shaquille O’Neal and Zion Williamson, both 25 games). Antetokounmpo was 15 of 24 from the field.

Dec 10, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) is fouled by Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze (35) in the second quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Despite his prolific night on offense, Antetokounmpo did not have to do it all by himself. He got tremendous support from the likes of Damian Lillard and Bobby Portis. Lillard garnered 28 points on 8-of-15 shooting while Portis provided a big spark off the bench, as he contributed 22 points on 9-of-11 shooting along with 10 boards.

The win over the Magic allowed the Bucks to advance to the semifinal round of the 2024 NBA Cup where they will be meeting the winner of the other quarterfinal meeting between the New York Knicks and the Atlanta Hawks this Wednesday evening at Madison Square Garden.

Dec 10, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dunks the ball against Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs (4) in the first quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers recently praised Khris Middleton for his professionalism, as the 33-year-old swingman has fully bought into his off-the-bench role.

Jan 8, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (22) shoots during warmups prior to the game against the San Antonio Spurs at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Jan 10, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (22) looks on against the Orlando Magic in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

“He’s started to get his rhythm – more importantly he’s starting to get his rhythm with that unit,” Rivers said about Middleton after their win over the Orlando Magic last Wednesday via Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

“And they’re starting to get their rhythm with him. You can see the bonuses of it. he comes in, he gets the ball multiple times now so he can get a rhythm. It’s been really good,” he added.

Dec 26, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (22) drives towards the basket during the first quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Since his full relegation to the second unit last week, Middleton has averaged 12.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per contest on 57.5 percent shooting from the field.

Khris Middleton’s stats in the Milwaukee Bucks-Toronto Raptors match

Khris Middleton also did well in the Milwaukee Bucks’ 130-112 win over the Toronto Raptors last Friday, as he posted 13 points, three rebounds, and five assists on 4-for-6 shooting from the field and a perfect 3-for-3 from the free throw line.