SAN FRANCISCO: The new-look Houston Rockets roared back to beat NBA champions Golden State 122-121 on Tuesday, spoiling a celebratory night at the Warriors’ Oracle Arena in Oakland.
The Warriors marked the opening of the new season by handing out their championship rings and raising their 2016-2017 championship banner.
Despite a furious rally by the Rockets, the Warriors thought they had won the game with a last-gasp basket from Kevin Durant, but the clock had expired a fraction of a second before the ball left Durant’s hand and it was the Rockets celebrating at the end of the night.
P.J. Tucker had given Houston the lead with a two free throws with 44.1 seconds remaining.
The Rockets trailed by as many as 17 and by 11 points entering the fourth quarter. They were down 114-107 after a three-pointer from Warriors star Stephen Curry with 5:12 remaining.
But the Rockets wouldn’t go away, producing a late flurry that included a three-point play by Eric Gordon and a three-pointer by Tucker.
Two offensive rebounds gave the Rockets another possession in the final minute. They trailed 121-120 when Tucker was fouled and made both his free throws.
Golden State, who lost only 15 times last season, turned the ball over on their next possession. They had a chance to win when Curry missed a three-pointer with five seconds left.
A deflection brought the ball to Durant, whose attempt from the baseline fell to thrill the crowd, only for a review to show it left his hand too late.
James Harden had 27 points, Gordon 24 and Tucker 20 for the Rockets. Former Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul, brought in to help the Rockets challenge the Warriors in the West, had just four points with 11 assists and eight rebounds in his debut for Houston.
Nick Young, a new arrival at Golden State this season, led the Warriors with 23 points off the bench.
Curry scored 22 and Durant 20 for the Warriors, who saw Draymond Green depart in the third quarter with a knee strain.
The Warriors became just the fourth defending champions since 2000 to lose their opener the following season.
NBA: Rockets spoil Warriors’ opening night
NBA: Rockets spoil Warriors’ opening night
Moroccan World Cup star Amallah enjoying La Liga life with Valencia
- Before his club’s trip to Barcelona, the midfielder spoke to Arab News about playing in Spain, his country’s World Cup heroics and Arab players in Europe
VALENCIA: At international and club level, the past few years have been pretty memorable for Valencia and Morocco star Selim Amallah.
The 27-year-old joined the La Liga team on loan from Segunda Division club Real Valladolid in the summer of 2023, having been part of the Moroccan squad that reached the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
On Monday night the Belgian-born midfielder will be part of the Valencia team, currently eighth in La Liga and led by club legend Ruben Baraja, that will take on Barcelona at Estadi Olímpic Lluis Companys.
Amallah is delighted with the way things have worked out for him.
“I’m thrilled to be playing in Spain because it’s one of the best leagues globally,” Amallah, fresh from a practice session at Ciudad Deportiva de Paterna, Valencia’s state-of-the-art training complex, told Arab News.
“It’s a league I wanted to play in and I've succeeded,” he said. “I anticipated more playing time initially,” he added. “I recognize the invaluable learning experience this season has offered. Frankly, I’m very happy to be here.”
While historically many players from North Africa have thrived in La Liga and other European leagues, very few from the Middle East or Gulf states have even attempted to make that leap.
Amallah feels more Arab players should make that move, not just to experience new sporting challenges and cultures, but primarily to succeed as professionals on the pitch.
“Yes, of course, I believe making history in a championship or for your country is something you aspire to achieve, and it’s one of my goals,” he said.
Without question the highlight of Ramallah’s career to date was Morocco’s incredible march to the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Along the way, the Atlas Lions defeated Spain and Portugal, before losing out to France, who were defending world champions.
“It was truly incredible,” said Amallah. “These are memories that I believe will last forever. None of us expected to reach such a remarkable level. We also demonstrated that Moroccan players and our clubs can compete at the highest levels of football. We take immense pride in representing our country.”
Part of the experience in Qatar was the overwhelming support that teams from Arab countries received, with members of various communities uniting to support the regional teams.
“It was an immense source of pride, as our support extended beyond just the Moroccan people to encompass all Muslim communities,” said Amallah. “We took great pride in demonstrating the significant presence of Muslims in football, proving our ability to not only inspire pride among Moroccans but also among the entire Arab and African world through our dedication on the field.”
After the euphoria of Qatar 2022, there was more good news for Morocco when the country was named co-host of the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.
But before the football world showpiece, Amallah said that he and his colleagues will be eyeing more success on the pitch.
“I believe there’s still more for us to prove and demonstrate that Morocco remains a force to be reckoned with,” he said. “We have an exceptional team with talented players, and while the expectations may have risen, we’re determined to rise to the occasion and give our all to represent our country.”
Paul Hughes set for Bellator debut in Dublin
- ‘Big News’ Hughes first Bellator appearance will be against Hawaii’s Bobby King, Saudi-backed PFL announces
- Bellator Welterweight Champion Jason Jackson defends title against undefeated Ramazan Kuramagomedov
NEW YORK: The Professional Fighters League has announced that Ireland’s Paul Hughes (11-1) will make his promotional debut against Hawaii’s Bobby King (12-6) in a Lightweight bout on Saturday, June 22 at Bellator Champions Series at 3Arena in Dublin.
Bellator Champions Series Dublin is headlined by Welterweight World Champion Jason Jackson (18-4) facing undefeated Ramazan Kuramagomedov (12-0), and the stacked fight card also features a Women’s Featherweight clash between two former title challengers, when Ireland’s Sinead Kavanagh (9-6) takes on Australia’s Arlene Blencowe (15-10).
A Bantamweight No. 1 contender matchup is also on the docket, as Kasum Kasumov (15-1) of Russia goes toe-to-toe with Brazil’s Matheus Mattos (14-2-1). At Middleweight, undefeated Hungarian Norbert Novenyi Jr. (7-0) will look to remain undefeated when he faces American Top Team’s Dalton Rosta (8-1). A previously announced contest pitting Peter Queally against Yancy Medeiros has been scrapped from the card.
At 27 years old, Hughes accomplished everything possible on the regional stage before entering free agency, and was sought after by every major mixed martial arts promotion on the planet before choosing to join PFL. A former Cage Warriors Featherweight champion prior to making the leap to Lightweight, Hughes has won eight of his 11 professional wins via stoppage and now will try his hand against Bobby King when he competes on June 22.
A six-fight veteran of Bellator, King proudly hails from Hawaii and has faced some of the toughest tests Bellator’s Lightweight division has to offer, facing names the likes of Alexander Shabliy and Gadzhi Rabadanov.
The 2024 Bellator Champions Series schedule is as follows:
- Friday, May 17 — Bellator Champions Series Paris — Accor Arena
- Saturday, June 22 — Bellator Champions Series Dublin — 3Arena
- Saturday, Sept. 7 — Bellator Champions Series San Diego — Pechanga Arena
- Saturday, Sept. 14 — Bellator Champions Series London — OVO Wembley
- Saturday, Oct. 12 — Bellator Champions Series Chicago — Wintrust Arena
- Saturday, Nov. 16 — Bellator Champions Series Paris — ADIDAS Arena
- Tuesday, Dec. 31 – Bellator Champions Series – TBD
Updated Bellator Champions Series Dublin main card:
Welterweight World Title bout: C-Jason Jackson (18-4) vs. Ramazan Kuramagomedov (12-0)
Lightweight bout: Paul Hughes (11-1) vs. Bobby King (12-6)
Women’s Featherweight bout: Sinead Kavanagh (9-6) vs. Arlene Blencowe (15-10)
Middleweight bout: Norbert Novenyi Jr. (7-0) vs. Dalton Rosta (8-1)
Bantamweight No. 1 Contender bout: Kasum Kasumov (15-1) vs. Matheus Mattos (14-2-1)
Light Heavyweight bout: Simeon Powell (9-1) vs. Abdullah Er-Ramy (7-1)
Bantamweight bout: Brian Moore (16-10) vs. Francesco Nuzzi (10-1)
Bantamweight bout: Sarvarjon Khamidov (15-0) vs. Marcirley Alves (12-3)
Featherweight bout: Nathan Kelly (10-2) vs. Fabacary Diatta (9-1)
Women’s Featherweight bout: Olena Kolesnyk (9-6) vs. Sara Collins (5-0)
Women’s Featherweight bout: Michelle Montague (4-0) vs. Karolina Sobek (4-2)
Evans and Cassidy give Jaguar a 1-2 finish in Monaco E-Prix
- Duo recorded the team’s second such triumph in Formula E history
- Evans broke a streak of four previous misses where he led but did not secure a win in the principality
MONTE CARLO: Mitch Evans claimed victory in the 2024 Monaco E-Prix, breaking his streak of four prior misses where he had led but failed to win.
Leading his Jaguar TCS Racing teammate Nick Cassidy, Evans executed the team’s strategy flawlessly, securing a dominant 1-2 finish for the British team. Their tactics, including strategic use of ATTACK MODE boosts, propelled Evans to his first Monaco win and Jaguar TCS Racing’s second 1-2 finish in Formula E.
“It feels mega, and a lot of relief to finally get that first win here,” said Evans after his win. “It feels like it should have come a few years earlier, but finally got it done today. Extra special as it’s my first win of the season as well here. Hopefully, this is a turning point for me and I can start to consistently get big points. I’ve been chipping away at it but nothing too crazy, so it’s come at a crucial time. It just feels amazing, and a massive team effort with Nick today to get a Jaguar 1-2 here in Monaco.”
With this victory, Evans bumps himself up to fifth in the drivers’ standing and solidifies his position as a championship frontrunner for Season 10, while Jaguar TCS Racing maintains its impressive lead in the Teams’ running.
Behind the top three, Stoffel Vandoorne’s teammate Jean-Eric Vergne was close behind in fourth. Pascal Wehrlein of TAG Heuer Porsche finished fifth, while Oliver Rowland of Nissan Formula E Team crossed the line sixth. Seventh place went to Antonio Felix da Costa of TAG Heuer Porsche, followed by Nissan’s Sacha Fenestraz of Nissan Formula E Team. Captain of consistency, Maximilian Gunther of Maserati MSG Racing, took ninth place securing more points for the Monaco-based outfit, while Norman Nato of Andretti Formula E rounded out the top 10.
As the season progresses, the stage is set for further excitement and fierce battles on the track, with the next rounds scheduled to take place in Berlin for the next double-header on May 11 and 12.
“It’s an unreal feeling, it’s been an epic day,” Cassidy said. “Last year, we were 1-2 as well so it’s pretty cool actually that it’s the other way around. I’m really happy for him. We can be really proud of our effort today and it’s a great result for Jaguar TCS Racing.”
Away from the on-track action, British boxing champion Anthony Joshua also stole the show, engaging with drivers and dropping hints about his upcoming fight. Amid the buzz of the pre-race media activities, Joshua revealed the date for his next match at Wembley Stadium in London.
Sharing insights from his illustrious career, Joshua drew parallels between boxing and motorsport, emphasizing the importance of teamwork for success. As the crowd eagerly awaited news of his next opponent, Joshua tantalized with names like Filip Hrgovic, Daniel Dubois, and Deontay Wilder, hinting at a potential showdown with Tyson Fury.
With royalty in attendance, including Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, the event culminated in the presentation of trophies to the podium-sitters, marking yet another thrilling chapter in Monaco’s motorsport history.
The next race in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is the 2024 Berlin E-Prix double-header on Saturday and Sunday, May 11-12.
Champions Al-Nassr end women’s Premeir League season on a high
- Celebrations included firwroks display after 1-0 win over Al-Ittihad in Riyadh
RIYADH: Al-Nassr women’s football club, winners of the 2023-2024 Premier League, ended their season on a high with a 1-0 victory over Al-Ittihad on Sunday night.
Al-Awwal Park Stadium was lit up with fireworks as Al-Nassr were crowned champions for a second year in a row, having already won the title last month against Al-Hilal.
Al-Nassr midfielder Lina Boussaha scored the winning goal in the second minute.
Members of Al-Nassr men's team Otavio and Alex Telles were spotted cheering from the sidelines as the team secured the league win.
Fans enjoyed a half-time show with prizes including signed Al-Nassr football shirts.
Williamson to lead as New Zealand announce T20 World Cup squad
- Veteran New Zealand seamer Tim Southee will play in his seventh T20 World Cup in June
- Kane Williamson’s squad have reached the semifinals of the last three T20 World Cups
WELLINGTON, New Zealand: Veteran seamer Tim Southee will play at his seventh Twenty20 World Cup after being included Monday in an experienced New Zealand squad for the tournament starting June 1 in the Caribbean and United States.
Kane Williamson will make his sixth T20 Cricket World Cup appearance and will captain the team at the tournament for the fourth time. He is warming up for the tournament in the Indian Premier League.
Southee’s regular new ball partner Trent Boult has been included to play at his fifth world T20, despite no longer having a central contract with New Zealand Cricket.
The 35-year-old Southee is New Zealand’s leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals with 157 and is also the Black Cap’s top wicket-taker at T20 World Cups with 29, five more than Boult.
The New Zealand selectors have sprung a minor surprise by selecting Matt Henry among four specialist seamers and ahead of Ben Sears, who was named as a traveling reserve. Henry, 32, will be playing at a T20 World Cup for the first time and has made only 20 previous appearances for New Zealand in the short format.
“Matt has worked exceptionally hard on his skills across the phases of a T20 game to come back into selection consideration,” head coach Gary Stead said.
Lockie Ferguson is the other specialist seamer in New Zealand’s 15-man squad. Adam Milne and Kyle Jamieson were unavailable because of injury.
Allrounder Rachin Ravindra also will play at a T20 World Cup for the first time, after being one of the breakout stars of last year’s 50-over World Cup. He adds to New Zealand’s spin options along with Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Ish Sodhi and Glenn Phillips.
“Rachin has made every post a winner in the past 12 months and it was exciting to see him continue that trajectory over the summer in the T20 format against Australia,” Stead said.
Wicketkeeper Tim Seifert has been omitted, meaning Devon Conway and Finn Allen will share the gloves. Conway is still recovering from a thumb injury sustained in New Zealand’s T20 series against Australia last month while Allen recently has been sidelined with a back injury.
Thirteen of the 15 squad members took part in New Zealand’s last tour to the West Indies in 2022. Six have played in the Caribbean Premier League.
“We expect the venues in the West Indies to offer quite varied conditions and feel we’ve selected a squad with the scope to adapt to those conditions,” Stead said.
New Zealand has reached the semifinals of the last three T20 World Cups, losing at that point to India in 2016 and Australia in 2022. The Black Caps lost to Australia in the final in 2021.
New Zealand’s first match is against Afghanistan at San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago on June 8. They meet co-host West Indies at the same venue on June 12.
The tournament final will be played at Kensington Oval, Barbados on June 30.
