Atlanta Hawks Al Horford Marries
Santo Domingo – Al Horford, a Dominican basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks, and his girlfriend, the singer and ex-Miss Universe Amelia Vega, were married on Christmas Eve in an intimate ceremony with their families, media reports said.
The ceremony was held at the home of the singer's uncle and aunt, the famous Dominican singer-songwriter Juan Luis Guerra, and his wife, Nora Vega de Guerra.
The report said the marriage came as something of a surprise because the newlyweds had not previously confirmed their engagement, and because few among the guests even knew they were going to a wedding.
Local media said the ceremony was simple but emotional, attended only by the couple's parents, aunts and uncles, grandparents and other close relatives.
The two tied the knot on Christmas Eve because the NBA's 2011-2012 season began on Sunday after being shortened due to a lengthy lockout.
SUMMARYThe ceremony was held at the home of the singer's uncle and aunt, the famous Dominican singer-songwriter Juan Luis Guerra, and his wife, Nora Vega de Guerra.
In 2003 the model Amelia Vega became the first Dominican to win the Miss Universe crown, which she did months before turning 19.
After passing the title on to her successor, the Dominican living in Miami opened two exclusive clothing stores there, hosted television programs and this year launched her first album, "Agua Dulce" (Fresh Water).
"The model and television host wore a white wedding gown that highlighted her natural beauty that undoubtedly won Horford's heart - the groom continually showed his feelings throughout a ceremony in which the happiness of the newlyweds and the love they share was never hidden," the press said.
Horford, 25, has played his three NBA seasons with the Hawks, where he averaged 12 points and 9.6 rebounds per game.
Before turning professional, the Dominican player led the University of Florida to two NCAA titles in 2006 y 2007.
The couple did announce that "soon" they will celebrate a more public ceremony, which they will share with their friends, the press and their fans.
The ceremony was held at the home of the singer's uncle and aunt, the famous Dominican singer-songwriter Juan Luis Guerra, and his wife, Nora Vega de Guerra.
The report said the marriage came as something of a surprise because the newlyweds had not previously confirmed their engagement, and because few among the guests even knew they were going to a wedding.
Local media said the ceremony was simple but emotional, attended only by the couple's parents, aunts and uncles, grandparents and other close relatives.
The two tied the knot on Christmas Eve because the NBA's 2011-2012 season began on Sunday after being shortened due to a lengthy lockout.
SUMMARYThe ceremony was held at the home of the singer's uncle and aunt, the famous Dominican singer-songwriter Juan Luis Guerra, and his wife, Nora Vega de Guerra.
In 2003 the model Amelia Vega became the first Dominican to win the Miss Universe crown, which she did months before turning 19.
After passing the title on to her successor, the Dominican living in Miami opened two exclusive clothing stores there, hosted television programs and this year launched her first album, "Agua Dulce" (Fresh Water).
"The model and television host wore a white wedding gown that highlighted her natural beauty that undoubtedly won Horford's heart - the groom continually showed his feelings throughout a ceremony in which the happiness of the newlyweds and the love they share was never hidden," the press said.
Horford, 25, has played his three NBA seasons with the Hawks, where he averaged 12 points and 9.6 rebounds per game.
Before turning professional, the Dominican player led the University of Florida to two NCAA titles in 2006 y 2007.
The couple did announce that "soon" they will celebrate a more public ceremony, which they will share with their friends, the press and their fans.
Chicago Bulls reach 5-year contract extension with reigning MVP Derrick Rose
DEERFIELD, Ill. — Derrick Rose was going down the list, thanking just about everyone who helped him become one of the NBA’s best players, when he looked to his right. Seated off to the side was his mother, Brenda. “I think I can finally say this now. Mom, I finally made it,” he said.
Rose, the Chicago Bulls’ superstar point guard and the league’s reigning MVP, agreed Wednesday to a five-year contract extension worth more than $94 million that kicks in next season.
It’s fair to say Rose made it long before this latest news conference. The extension is just another stop in a rapid and steady rise from a tough neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side to a starring role with his hometown team after being taken with the No. 1 pick in the draft. READ MORE
Rose, the Chicago Bulls’ superstar point guard and the league’s reigning MVP, agreed Wednesday to a five-year contract extension worth more than $94 million that kicks in next season.
It’s fair to say Rose made it long before this latest news conference. The extension is just another stop in a rapid and steady rise from a tough neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side to a starring role with his hometown team after being taken with the No. 1 pick in the draft. READ MORE
Erika Smith Files Sexual Harassment Against Golden State's Monta Ellis
A former Golden State Warriors employee who filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against star guard Monta Ellis spoke to media with her attorney Wednesday, and displayed evidence of the unwanted texts Ellis allegedly sent her, including a photo of his genitals.
In her lawsuit, which also names the team, Erika Ross Smith alleges Ellis began sending her explicit messages several times a day starting in November 2010 while she worked in the team's community relations department.
The messages included lines such as, "I want to be with you," and "Hey Sexy," and proposed sexual encounters, according to the lawsuit.
READ MORE
In her lawsuit, which also names the team, Erika Ross Smith alleges Ellis began sending her explicit messages several times a day starting in November 2010 while she worked in the team's community relations department.
The messages included lines such as, "I want to be with you," and "Hey Sexy," and proposed sexual encounters, according to the lawsuit.
READ MORE
Grambling State Wins 2011 SWAC Championship Game
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Jacarde Carter returned a fumble 66 yards for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter to give Grambling State a 16-15 victory over Alabama A&M in the Farmers Insurance SWAC Football Championship Game presented by Toyota on Saturday.
Grambling (8-4) won its sixth SWAC championship in the 13-year history of the event. Four of those wins have come against Alabama A&M, which fell to 1-5 all-time in the title game.
An 11-yard touchdown run by Kaderius Lacey and a 36-yard scoring pass from Deaunte Mason to Terence Pride helped A&M (8-4) build a 15-0 lead late in the first half. The Bulldogs missed both extra-point attempts.
Grambling closed the gap to 15-9 midway through the third quarter on an 80-yard touchdown pass from D.J. Williams to Mario Louis.READ MORE
Grambling (8-4) won its sixth SWAC championship in the 13-year history of the event. Four of those wins have come against Alabama A&M, which fell to 1-5 all-time in the title game.
An 11-yard touchdown run by Kaderius Lacey and a 36-yard scoring pass from Deaunte Mason to Terence Pride helped A&M (8-4) build a 15-0 lead late in the first half. The Bulldogs missed both extra-point attempts.
Grambling closed the gap to 15-9 midway through the third quarter on an 80-yard touchdown pass from D.J. Williams to Mario Louis.READ MORE
Lamar Odom In Tears Over Trade
Chris Paul wasn't the only person who didn't take the news of the Los Angeles trade (or failed trade rather) badly. Lamar Odom who was being traded to the New Orleans Hornets was actually brought to tears over the news. Ouch! Listen as Lamar gets emotional and tries to hold face while discussing the trade. Dallas may not be L.A. with all the glitz and glamour, but it certainly has it's benefits and money. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Take with a grain of sand and keep it moving. Look at the positive at least, he still has a job.
Read more:
Allen Iverson's Ex-Wife Tawanna Unable To Pay Bills Claims Allen Out Buying Diamonds
Allen Iverson's divorce has taken a nasty turn -- according to his estranged wife, the former NBA star went on a massive spending spree after she filed for divorce, leaving her completely penniless.
Tawanna just filed new docs in their bitter divorce battle -- claiming ever since she filed for divorce in June, Allen stopped depositing money in their joint bank account ... and then made several large cash withdrawals, including one for $20,000 ... which he spent on diamond jewelry.
Tawanna claims the account was $23,000 in the red at the time she filed the court docs -- and she's been unable to pay the bills ... or provide for their 5 kids.
According to Tawanna -- who says she gave up her career to be a stay-at-home mom -- Allen is worth over $20 million ... and refuses to help her out simply out of spite.
Allen denies Tawanna's allegations in the docs -- and since they're at a stalemate ... the judge will have to play peacemaker. So far, no hearing date has been set.
Allen Iverson's Estranged Wife: He's Buying Diamonds ... And I Can't Pay Rent! | TMZ.com
Tawanna just filed new docs in their bitter divorce battle -- claiming ever since she filed for divorce in June, Allen stopped depositing money in their joint bank account ... and then made several large cash withdrawals, including one for $20,000 ... which he spent on diamond jewelry.
Tawanna claims the account was $23,000 in the red at the time she filed the court docs -- and she's been unable to pay the bills ... or provide for their 5 kids.
According to Tawanna -- who says she gave up her career to be a stay-at-home mom -- Allen is worth over $20 million ... and refuses to help her out simply out of spite.
Allen denies Tawanna's allegations in the docs -- and since they're at a stalemate ... the judge will have to play peacemaker. So far, no hearing date has been set.
Allen Iverson's Estranged Wife: He's Buying Diamonds ... And I Can't Pay Rent! | TMZ.com
Marlins Will Make Jose Reyes Cut His Hair
Jose Reyes attends ESPN the Magazine's 3rd annual Body Issue party at Highline Stages on October 6, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)
From Yahoo! Sports:
DALLAS -- The Miami Marlins signed Jose Reyes to $106 million contract because he is one of the best shortstops in the majors and they want to win the World Series. They love his bat, they love his glove and they love his speed.
But the dreadlocks? They've got to go.
Like they did a few seasons back with Hanley Ramirez, the Marlins won't tolerate Reyes' shoulder-length hair. Team president David Samson said Wednesday that Reyes will have to abide, just like anyone else on the roster.
"The answer is, there'll be team rules," Samson said. "Everyone follows the team rules, whatever they are."
Click here to read the rest of this story.
From Yahoo! Sports:
DALLAS -- The Miami Marlins signed Jose Reyes to $106 million contract because he is one of the best shortstops in the majors and they want to win the World Series. They love his bat, they love his glove and they love his speed.
But the dreadlocks? They've got to go.
Like they did a few seasons back with Hanley Ramirez, the Marlins won't tolerate Reyes' shoulder-length hair. Team president David Samson said Wednesday that Reyes will have to abide, just like anyone else on the roster.
"The answer is, there'll be team rules," Samson said. "Everyone follows the team rules, whatever they are."
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Blazer's Brandon Roy To Prematurely Retire Due To His Knees
Brandon Roy #7 of the Portland Trail Blazers. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- The Trail Blazers will not discuss reports that All-Star guard Brandon Roy plans to seek medical retirement because of his knees.
Roy's agent also did not respond to a request for comment on any retirement plans, first reported by ESPN.com early Friday.
Roy, a five-year veteran who helped the team shed its "Jail Blazers" reputation, has been dogged by knee injuries and surgeries. He has said he lacks cartilage between the bones in both knees.
The reports contradict statements made on Monday during a news conference with Blazers President Larry Miller, coach Nate McMillan and acting general manager Chad Buchanan. Roy had met with team officials earlier in the day and said he felt good and was ready to help the team in any way he could.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- The Trail Blazers will not discuss reports that All-Star guard Brandon Roy plans to seek medical retirement because of his knees.
Roy's agent also did not respond to a request for comment on any retirement plans, first reported by ESPN.com early Friday.
Roy, a five-year veteran who helped the team shed its "Jail Blazers" reputation, has been dogged by knee injuries and surgeries. He has said he lacks cartilage between the bones in both knees.
The reports contradict statements made on Monday during a news conference with Blazers President Larry Miller, coach Nate McMillan and acting general manager Chad Buchanan. Roy had met with team officials earlier in the day and said he felt good and was ready to help the team in any way he could.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.
David Stern Spoils Lakers Christmas Gift: Chris Paul
NBA Commissioner David Stern © and NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver speak to members of the media after a press conference after the NBA and NBAPlayer's Association met to negotiate the CBA at The Helmsley Hotel on November 10, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers thought they were getting an early Christmas gift, acquiring All-Star guard Chris Paul from the New Orleans Hornets on Thursday night. That was until NBACommissioner David Stern torpedoed the deal amid pressure from other NBA owners.
The deal would've sent Paul to Los Angeles, Pau Gasol to the Houston Rockets, and Lamar Odom, Kevin Martin, Luis Scola, Goran Dragic, and a 2012 first round draft pick to New Orleans. It appeared to be a done deal and was announced shortly after 7 p.m. last night.
About 90 minutes later, Stern killed the trade, leaving all the players and front office personnel involved in disbelief.
"I don't know what to do for the Lakers," Odom told the Los Angeles Times. "I'm even weirded out by the league doing what they did. I don't know what to do."
Odom told the Times he thought it was a joke when he was first told about the trade to the Hornets.
"And then it doesn't go through," Odom said. "Oh, Lord. I don't know what I'm going to do. I'll pray about it."
Stern's reasoning behind it was that he feared that the players still had too much leverage in forcing where they could go, with Carmelo Anthony's forced trade from Denver to New York last season being the most glaring example.
Compounding matters, the NBA has owned the Hornets since buying them from George Shinn in 2010 and has been searching for a new owner to keep the franchise in New Orleans.
Many owners felt the trade was essentially the NBA fixing the deck in favor of another big market team, in this case the perennial contending Lakers. The problem is that nixing the trade doesn't help the Hornets, as Paul has made it clear he is not staying after the season and the team will likely get nothing in return when he leaves.
Stern, who has been unavailable for comment on the matter, was bombarded by calls and e-mails from angry owners who felt the trade went against the entire reason the owners forced the lockout. Ironically, the players and owners ratified the new CBA yesterday.
The Los Angeles Lakers thought they were getting an early Christmas gift, acquiring All-Star guard Chris Paul from the New Orleans Hornets on Thursday night. That was until NBACommissioner David Stern torpedoed the deal amid pressure from other NBA owners.
The deal would've sent Paul to Los Angeles, Pau Gasol to the Houston Rockets, and Lamar Odom, Kevin Martin, Luis Scola, Goran Dragic, and a 2012 first round draft pick to New Orleans. It appeared to be a done deal and was announced shortly after 7 p.m. last night.
About 90 minutes later, Stern killed the trade, leaving all the players and front office personnel involved in disbelief.
"I don't know what to do for the Lakers," Odom told the Los Angeles Times. "I'm even weirded out by the league doing what they did. I don't know what to do."
Odom told the Times he thought it was a joke when he was first told about the trade to the Hornets.
"And then it doesn't go through," Odom said. "Oh, Lord. I don't know what I'm going to do. I'll pray about it."
Stern's reasoning behind it was that he feared that the players still had too much leverage in forcing where they could go, with Carmelo Anthony's forced trade from Denver to New York last season being the most glaring example.
Compounding matters, the NBA has owned the Hornets since buying them from George Shinn in 2010 and has been searching for a new owner to keep the franchise in New Orleans.
Many owners felt the trade was essentially the NBA fixing the deck in favor of another big market team, in this case the perennial contending Lakers. The problem is that nixing the trade doesn't help the Hornets, as Paul has made it clear he is not staying after the season and the team will likely get nothing in return when he leaves.
Stern, who has been unavailable for comment on the matter, was bombarded by calls and e-mails from angry owners who felt the trade went against the entire reason the owners forced the lockout. Ironically, the players and owners ratified the new CBA yesterday.