With Covid putting the whole world on lockdown from March until May, most major sporting events were temporarily postponed. While professional sports leagues like the NBA finished their seasons, colleges and the NCAA called it quits and permanently canceled major tournaments.
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After a first round elimination in the bubble, NBA fans and analysts viewed the Utah Jazz as a solid but not exceptional team. However, the Jazz currently sit atop the Western Conference with a 51-21 record. Ball movement, three point shooting, and gritty team defense have contributed to the Jazz’s success this season.
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“Chris Paul is the best leader in the NBA and deserves to be in the conversation for MVP,” said Hall of Famer Charles Barkley on Inside the NBA. The fans at the Phoenix Suns Arena stood on their feet and started “MVP” chants as Paul knocked down two free throws to secure not only a win against the Los Angeles Clippers, but also the franchise’s first playoff berth since 2010.
The referees in the NBA are among the most scrutinized in all of the world's sports today. From questionable calls to seemingly nonsense ejections, fans have questioned the ability of the league's officials for decades. This season, referees have received a lot of criticism, and fans have become more upset with the “softness” of the league and the calls being made.
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This NBA season has introduced countless surprises. From teams exceeding their expectations for this season, to players having breakout seasons, fans have been able to enjoy (or frown upon) the many unexpected happenings around the season this year.
“This is not an individual honor but a team award, and I am so proud to be able to bring this award home to Iowa City.” Gratitude rang through Luke Garza’s words. His reception of the award was fresh in his mind. Iowa gave him the opportunity to accomplish his dreams and for that, he would be indebted to them forever.
When the women of the NCAA Division 1 Basketball Tournament arrived in San Antonio, larger issues than losing a game surfaced. As they walked into the weight room of the March Madness bubble, a stack of six weights and a table of piled “sanitized” yoga mats welcomed them—not enough equipment for one athlete, let alone numerous college basketball players.
