The WNBA has begun to rival the NBA in its pregame fashion statements, with players using their attire to pay homage to their roots and showcase personal style. Ahead of the Dallas Wings versus Atlanta Dream matchup, forward Maddy Siegrist stole the spotlight with a unique fashion choice: a “Nova Knicks” T-shirt.
Siegrist’s apparel wasn’t just about style; it was a nod to Villanova’s legacy in the NBA, specifically with the New York Knicks. The shirt prominently featured four notable Villanova alumni who also play for or have played for the Knicks: Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, Donte DiVincenzo, and the recently acquired Mikal Bridges.
NBA Free Agency Buzz
July 7 – Teams Interested in Fournier
Former New York Knicks guard Evan Fournier has become a free agent after the Detroit Pistons declined his $19 million team option. NBA insider Marc Stein reports that despite entering his 30s, Fournier remains a sought-after shooter by multiple teams keen on bolstering their rosters.
July 6 – DeRozan Heads West
DeMar DeRozan, a six-time NBA All-Star, is set to join the California ranks after agreeing to a lucrative three-year, $74 million contract in a sign-and-trade deal. As per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, this move sees Harrison Barnes and a 2031 pick-swap going to the San Antonio Spurs, and Chris Duarte, along with two second-round picks and cash, heading to the Chicago Bulls.
Tunnel walks, ‘aura’ and bombshell brand deals: WNBA stars emerge as powerful players in fashion https://t.co/b3MHNBNmHR
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) July 7, 2024
July 6 – Knicks Assistant Joins Cavs
Johnnie Bryant, who served four years as an assistant coach with the New York Knicks, is making a coaching shift to the Cleveland Cavaliers. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports that Bryant will take on the role of associate head coach under new head coach Kenny Atkinson, reuniting with former player Donovan Mitchell.
July 6 – 76ers Waive Paul Reed
The Philadelphia 76ers continue to refine their roster post-free agency splurge, making strategic moves to solidify their depth chart. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski notes that backup center Paul Reed was waived to create room for Caleb Martin, a move that doesn’t impact the team’s financial standing due to Reed’s non-guaranteed contract for the upcoming season.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the WNBA and NBA, fashion statements and roster movements alike capture fans’ attention and shape the league’s narrative. Players like Maddy Siegrist using attire to celebrate basketball legacies, coupled with significant free agency transactions, underscore the dynamic nature of professional basketball.