Miami Heat's Caleb Martin is no longer the NBA's best-kept secret

Miami Heat’s Caleb Martin's unconventional path to the NBA dates back to being undrafted, waived, and signing a two-way deal. Now Martin has earned a starring role on a Championship contending team. In a Game 7 rematch against the reigning Conference Champs, Martin posted a career-best performance, scoring 26 points, including a barrage of three-pointers to claim a 103-84 victory over the Boston Celtics. "It doesn’t surprise us. We have seen it every single day. I’m so proud and happy for him. I think he’s going to be even better in the next round, and I don’t think he’s going to be a surprise to anybody any longer", Butler told the media. Martin has earned respect from his peers, and has embraced the "Heat Culture". Throughout the season, Martin posted career-highs in points (9.6) and rebounds (4.6). But, Martin's post-season ascension did not come by surprise. In the Eastern Conference Finals, Martin averaged 19.3 points, and 6.4 rebounds while shooting 60.2% from the field and 48.9% from 3-point range. Martin finished just one vote shy of surpassing NBA all-star Jimmy Bulter for the ECF MVP award. Caleb Martin cements himself in history, becoming the first player in Heat History to score 100 points, 60% from the field, and 45% from three in a single series. Martin is set to make his first NBA finals appearance while taking advantage of the opportunity.

“What people can learn from my story is just stay in the saddle, Stay in the saddle, man. If you put the work in, eventually it will come to light. ”

— Caleb Martin H/T Andscape

Miami Ride ‘Heat Culture’ to NBA Finals

The NBA community has dubbed the Heat as an "underdog" team, but the Heat have changed the narrative. The Heat's improbable post-season run continues. After entering this post-season as an eight-seed, eliminating the two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks. After shocking the Bucks in five games and the New York Knicks in six, the Miami Heat were in an epic ECF rematch with the reigning Conference Champs. Despite losing a three straight after going up 3-0, it was the resiliency and togetherness that outlasted the Celtics. Just one year ago, Jimmy Butler predicted after losing to the Celtics in 2022, that the Heat would return back to this position and "get it done".

“ I have so much belief in myself and this group of guys, and in the squad that Coach Pat, Coach Spo and everybody else has put together. I see it every single day, I know how good of players we have, I know how good of a team we are, and we made it happen." - Jimmy Butler

But still, the Heat are not satisfied, as Butler has his eyes set on bringing a Championship back to Miami. The Heat, yet faced with another at-large task will harp on their toughness and defensive prowess. For Miami, the odds are in their favour. League Sources have informed that the Heat is expecting the return of Guard Tyler Herro, who suffered a fractured wrist in the first round. Herro is targeting a Game 3 return per report. Game 1 of the NBA Finals will commence on Thursday night live from the Mile High's Ball Arena. Live coverage will begin at 7:30 PM ET. on ABC.

Written by: Hussein Abdullahi

Published by: TGQ Inc.

The WNBA Welcomes Mercury Star Griner in her Homecoming

The highly anticipated 27th season of the WNBA began in stellar fashion on Friday night. The opening matchup showcased the league's perennial powerhouse teams, setting the stage for a thrilling start to the season. With new stars' arrival and seasoned veterans' return, the WNBA welcomed home BG. The Los Angeles Sparks and Phoenix Mercury took center stage in a captivating match at the Crypto arena, drawing in over 10,000 fans. The game was a star-studded affair, with notable figures such as Billie Jean King, Dawn Staley, Magic Johnson, and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris gracing the event with their presence. The WNBA's ability to attract such esteemed guests is a testament to its growing prominence and cultural impact. Aside from Friday night lights, Griner made her anticipated return to the WNBA after serving an extensive prison sentence in Russia. Following the 18-point performance, Griner celebrated her homecoming in Phoenix on Sunday night. Over 14,000 attended to support Griner in a monumental step forward for the league. Griner poured in a game-high 27 points and ten rebounds recording her first double-double since the return. The WNBA community is happy to see BG back on the court doing what she does best.

Breanna Stewart Shatters Records and Sparks High Hopes for Liberty

Breanna Stewart made an unforgettable impact in just her second game with the NY Liberty, leaving a lasting imprint on the team's history. The Liberty, determined to bring a championship to the big apple, welcomed Stewart alongside other key acquisitions, Jonquel Jones and Courtney Vandersloot, setting high expectations for the 2023 season. Returning to the Barclays Centre after a season-opening loss to the Mystics, the NY Liberty sought to ignite their campaign with a resounding victory. Little did they know that Stewart would not only rise to the occasion but also etch her name into the team's record books. With the crowd eagerly awaiting the homecoming of their new star, Breanna Stewart took center stage. From the opening tip-off, she unleashed a scoring barrage that left Fever stunned. In an incredible display of offensive prowess, Stewart single-handedly accounted for 19 of the Liberty's 36 first-quarter points, setting the tone for the game ahead. As the game progressed, the Liberty opened up an 85-54 lead after the third. The Liberty secured their first home win with a 90-73 victory over the Indiana Fever. The Liberty surrounded with high expectations, will lean on their young core of Ionescu and Laney, alongside the new trio for title chances to materialize.

Mystics' Championship Aspirations Propel Them Forward

As the WNBA season unfolds, the Washington Mystics are brimming with confidence as they face off against the league's formidable "superteams." After a convincing victory over the New York Liberty, the Mystics received a taste of what lies ahead in their quest for glory. Having last clinched the championship in 2019 by defeating the Connecticut Sun, the team is now determined to reclaim that prestigious title. Following the game, Mystic guard Natasha Cloud expressed her admiration for the collective strength of their ball club, a testament to their unwavering confidence.

“Y'all can keep sleeping", We're confident in what we have in this locker room, and you can continue to talk about the superhero teams, but we know who we are, and we know what we bring every single night.” - Natasha Cloud (Washington Mystic Guard)

Now, the Mystics are set to continue their title pursuit with a highly anticipated rematch against the Connecticut Sun. As the Mystics prepare to face the Sun once again, they do so with a newfound optimism and a deep-rooted belief in their abilities. The matchup serves as a measuring stick, allowing the team to gauge their progress and assess their readiness to compete against the league's elite. With the talents of Natasha Cloud, Elana Della Done, and Ariel Atkins, the Mystics possess a potent combination of experience and skill that positions them as serious title contenders. In a season filled with excitement and uncertainty, the Washington Mystics stand tall, ready to confront the challenges that lie ahead. As they set their sights on reclaiming the championship trophy, they serve as an inspiration to all, demonstrating that with dedication, teamwork, and unwavering belief, anything is possible.

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