• Berry Tramel’s assessment of the coordinator hires in Stillwater seems fair:
(Todd) Grantham has possibilities and (Doug) Meacham seems a stretch. But the way college football goes these days, we have no idea. Shippensburg worked, Gannon didn’t and Jim Knowles turned the Cowboys into a defensive menace. Now we’ve got the runaway transfer portal, which makes contenders out of Indiana. Any scenario seems possible for Gundy’s new hires.
In today’s edition of Daily Bullets, we have some exciting news for basketball fans as Cade Cunningham has officially clinched his spot in the upcoming All-Star game. The rising star has been putting up impressive numbers all season and has finally earned his place among the league’s best players.
In other news, sports analyst Berry Tramel has shared his thoughts on the recent coordinator hires in the NFL. With several teams making changes to their coaching staff, Tramel breaks down the impact that these hires could have on the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis in tomorrow’s edition of Daily Bullets!
The 2025 NBA All-Star rosters have been set. After last week’s announcement of the 10 starters, Thursday brought us the 14 final selections, who will be classified as reserves at All-Star Weekend in San Francisco in February.
Of course, we should point out that the typical starter/reserve structure for All-Star selections is going to differ this year. Rather than a traditional two-team All-Star setup, four teams will play on All-Star Sunday. Three of them will be composed of the 24 All-Star selections drafted by the cast of Inside the NBA. The fourth will be the winning team from Friday’s Rising Star Challenge. Obviously, with three teams, a total of 15 players will ultimately start, but the classification of starters and reserves still matters from the perspective of honoring the 10 best players through the first half of the season.
And so, without further ado, here are our full 2024-25 All-Star rosters.
All-Star Weekend will begin on Feb. 14 in San Francisco with the Rising Star Challenge. The traditional Saturday slate of events will be held on Feb. 15, with the newly revamped All-Star tournament closing things out on Feb. 16. After last season’s disappointing All-Star Game, everything that happens in San Francisco this time around will be under heavy scrutiny, but with this star-studded group of players, hopefully, the weekend will go off without a hitch.
The 2025 NBA All-Star Game is shaping up to be one for the ages, with a mix of young up-and-coming stars and established veterans set to take the court. The full squads have been announced, with some surprising selections and snubs along the way.
Starting for the Eastern Conference will be the likes of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid, while the Western Conference will be led by LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Anthony Davis.
Among the reserves, one of the most exciting picks is French phenom Victor Wembanyama, who has taken the league by storm with his shot-blocking prowess and offensive skills. Joining him on the Eastern Conference bench will be rising star Cade Cunningham, who has emerged as a versatile playmaker for his team.
On the Western Conference side, the likes of Ja Morant, Devin Booker, and Jayson Tatum will be looking to make their mark in the All-Star Game, while rookies Jalen Green and Evan Mobley will be eager to showcase their talents on the big stage.
With a mix of established stars and young guns, the 2025 NBA All-Star Game promises to be a thrilling showcase of the league’s best talent. Stay tuned for what is sure to be an unforgettable event.
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NBA All-Star Game 2025, 2025 NBA All-Star Game rosters, Victor Wembanyama, Cade Cunningham, NBA All-Star Game reserves, NBA All-Star Game full squads, 2025 NBA All-Star Game lineup, NBA All-Star Game players 2025, Victor Wembanyama NBA All-Star, Cade Cunningham NBA All-Star, NBA All-Star Game news 2025.
The fourth-year guard has flashed his star potential throughout his career, but has taken his game to another level this season. No longer is Cade flashing that potential, he’s realizing it and has blossomed into the star that Detroit desperately needed.
And now he’ll be recognized with his first NBA All-Star nod.
Cunningham was chosen by the NBA’s coaches as a reserve on the Eastern Conference team, marking the first appearance by a Pistons player in the All-Star Game since 2018-19 when Blake Griffin made it in his last stand.
Ironically, that was the last time the Pistons made the playoffs, too.
Cade is also the first Detroit guard to make the cut since 2008-09 when Allen Iverson was voted a starter. We don’t dive into that because, again, ironically, what season was the beginning of the dark ages for Detroit Basketball.
Maybe Cade’s time is the start of the new age?
Cunningham is averaging career-highs across the board with 25 points, 9.3 assists and 6.4 rebounds per game. Inefficiency, a struggle earlier in his career, has become a non-issue as Cade is shooting a career-best 45% from the field and 36% from three while averaging 1.7 stocks (steals + blocks) per game.
There’s so many areas you can point to where Cade has leveled up this season. He’s got a masterful control of the game and finally has the right kinds of teammates surrounding him to be at his best. Spacing has been his friend, and the chemistry he’s built with the core young guys — as well as the newcomers — is apparent on a nightly basis.
This is what you hope for when you take a guy No. 1 overall. Pistons fans have sat in front of their TV summer after summer, watching the team (somehow) continue its losing ways in the NBA draft lottery.
Landing Cunningham in 2021 was the move. It was the draft where there was a DUDE at the top. Imagine being lucky enough to get the top pick this past summer instead of 2021? I don’t even want to think about it.
Cade missed his entire sophomore season with a shin issue after an encouraging rookie year. While many pundits applauded his draft mates as being better players, Cunningham’s steady rise is finally coming to fruition now.
I can’t really think of another superstar who has had to wade through the muck to get to the point where Cade is now. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder had as similarly miserable start to their tenure, and look where they are now.
SGA’s the MVP frontrunner and the Thunder are amongst favorites to win it all.
Cade and the Pistons have a long way to go on both of those fronts, but this is a sign of progress in a season of progress.
Detroit’s rebuild stagnated before Cade and, seemingly, during Cade’s time here. Now it feels like the Pistons have their budding superstar and he’s surrounded by the infrastructure needed to not waste this moment.
So, hey, let’s be excited. This is a big moment, because, frankly, a team like the Pistons doesn’t get this spotlight very often. It’s a big step in Cade’s trek toward being among the league’s elite, and it’s another step in the Pistons rise to relevance.
Next up, prominence.
Congrats and see ya in San Fran, Cade.
The Detroit Pistons’ Cade Cunningham is proving himself to be an NBA All-Star in the making. With his impressive performance on the court and his leadership skills off the court, Cunningham is quickly becoming a rising star in the league.
Since being drafted as the number one overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Cunningham has shown his ability to score, facilitate plays, and play solid defense. His versatility and basketball IQ have earned him the respect of his teammates, coaches, and fans.
Cunningham’s work ethic and determination to improve his game are evident in his performance night in and night out. His ability to take over games and make clutch plays in crucial moments is a testament to his maturity and poise on the court.
As the season progresses, it is clear that Cunningham is on the path to becoming an NBA All-Star. With his skillset, work ethic, and leadership qualities, there is no doubt that he will be a force to be reckoned with in the league for years to come. The Detroit Pistons have a bright future ahead with Cade Cunningham leading the way.
The Detroit Pistons breakout star was officially named a reserve for the 2025 All-Star Game on Thursday, becoming the first player from the franchise to make the game since Blake Griffin in 2019. The 6-foot-6 guard is enjoying a career season, averaging 25 points, 9.3 assists, 6.4 rebounds and nearly a full block and steal per game. The rosters for the Eastern and Western conferences were revealed on TNT on Thursday night, though the game won’t feature conference affiliations.
Cunningham’s profile has risen along with the Pistons, who entered Thursday 23-24 and in eighth place in the Eastern Conference, half a game behind the Miami Heat for the top play-in tournament spot. But before Cunningham can attempt to lead the Pistons to their first playoff appearance since 2019 — and potentially their first playoff victory since 2008 — he’ll have a shot at pulling down a $125,000 check next month.
Cunningham’s selection drew the approval of Charles Barkley during the reveal: “I’m so happy for that kid,” Barkley said.
Rounding out the East reserves: Lillard, Boston’s Jaylen Brown, Indiana’s Pascal Siakam, Cleveland’s Darius Garland and Evan Mobley and Miami’s Tyler Herro.
In the West, the roster was filled out with Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards, L.A. Lakers’ Anthony Davis, L.A. Clippers’ James Harden, Memphis’ Jaren Jackson Jr. (Michigan State), Houston’s Alperen Sengun, Oklahoma City’s Jalen Williams and San Antonio’s Victory Wembanyama.
2025 NBA All-Star schedule
The 2025 NBA All-Star weekend is scheduled for Feb. 14-16 in San Francisco and Oakland, California. Friday night will feature a pair of events at different arena on either side of the Bay Area, with the All-Star Celebrity Game at Oakland Arena and the Rising Stars tournament, featuring four eight-player teams of rookies, sophomores and G League stars at Chase Center in San Francisco. The winning Rising Stars team will compete in Sunday’s NBA All-Star tournament
Saturday night will feature the skills competition at Chase Center, with an overall skills challenge, a 3-point contest and the slam dunk contest.
The All-Star tournament is the centerpiece of Sunday night at Chase Center. The four eight-player teams will face off in approximate 25-minute heats, with the winner being the first team to 40 points. The first semifinal will tip off at 8:20 p.m. and the second at approximately 9:10. The final, featuring the semifinal winners, is slated to tip off around 10 p.m.
2025 NBA All-Star Game format
Two guards and three frontcourt players in each conference qualify as “starters,” though the league will play the game as a mini-tournament on Feb. 16 featuring three eight-player teams of NBA All-Stars and one squad from Feb. 14’s “Rising Stars” tournament. The NBA starters and reserves will be distributed among the three teams in draft next Thursday by TNT broadcasters O’Neal, Barkley and Kenny Smith. The teams — “Team Shaq,” “Team Chuck” and “Team Kenny” — will face “Team Candace,” with former WNBA star Candace Parker as team GM.
What’s at stake in 2025 NBA All-Star Game?
There’s big money on the line for the 24 NBA stars and eight prospects, according to the league’s web site: “The four teams participating in the NBA All-Star Game will compete for a prize pool of $1.8 million, with each player on the championship-winning team receiving $125,000, each player on the second-place team receiving $50,000 and each player on the third- and fourth-place teams receiving $25,000.”
How 2025 NBA All-Stars are selected
The All-Star reserves are selected by a vote of the NBA’s 30 head coaches. The starters were selected by weighing the fan, player and media votes. Fan votes account for 50% of the score, and players and media each account for 25%.
2025 NBA All-Star Game ‘starters’
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson and Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell got the nods last week as the East starters. Filling out the East lineup: New York’s Karl-Anthony Towns, Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokoumpo and Boston’s Jason Tatum.
For the West, Golden State’s Stephen Curry and Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are the backcourt starters, with Denver’s Nikola Jokić, Phoenix’s Kevin Durant and the Lakers’ LeBron James in the frontcourt.
In a historic moment for the Detroit Pistons, rookie sensation Cade Cunningham has been named as a reserve for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game. The young guard has taken the league by storm with his impressive play and has quickly established himself as one of the top young talents in the NBA.
Cunningham’s selection to the All-Star Game is a testament to his hard work and dedication to his craft. Despite being a rookie, he has shown poise and maturity beyond his years, leading the Pistons to an unexpected playoff push in his first season.
Fans and analysts alike have been impressed with Cunningham’s all-around game, as he has showcased his scoring ability, playmaking skills, and defensive prowess on a nightly basis. His selection to the All-Star Game is well-deserved and serves as a validation of his impact on the league.
As Cunningham continues to develop and improve, the future looks bright for both him and the Pistons. With his selection to the All-Star Game, he has solidified his status as a rising star in the NBA and a key piece of Detroit’s rebuild.
Congratulations to Cade Cunningham on this well-deserved honor, and we look forward to seeing him shine on the All-Star stage. #Pistons #CadeCunningham #NBAAllStar
Roughly an hour before each Detroit Pistons game, Cade Cunningham emerges from the locker room for his pregame routine. Before a single shot gets taken and sometimes before Cunningham laces up his player-edition Nike G.T. Cuts, he connects with Pistons assistant coach Jarrett Jack at half court.
Jack, a former 13-year NBA veteran, is the coach closest to Cunningham and the one who works with him. To warm up, one tosses a basketball ball near the arena’s scoreboard, almost like a football, while the other waits for it to fall. They switch and the same thing occurs for a few minutes.
This might seem insignificant in the grand scheme of Cunningham’s career season. They are just tossing up a ball in the air. This act personifies Jack and Cunningham’s relationship — a bond that has contributed to Cunningham’s successful season.
“I don’t really know where it started from,” Cunningham told The Athletic recently. “I don’t know what made us start doing that. The throwing thing, it’s just for me to touch up, try to get as much rotation on the ball as I’m throwing it like a football. It’s fun. … It’s like our little (pregame) test.”
The Pistons (23-24) have improved this season with Cunningham elevating his play. But his offseason work, leadership and the resolve he developed from an arduous 2023-24 season have molded him into a formidable 2025 NBA All-Star candidate.
When Jack was hired in 2023, it didn’t take long for the two to connect.
“It wasn’t too long after that,” Cunningham said. “It was my first time having a veteran, NBA, long-time point guard that I was able to connect with that I knew of. I watched him play as a kid. So, it was easy for me to connect with him, ask him about pick-and-rolls or anything.”
The NBA All-Star reserves will be revealed Thursday, and Cunningham should be the first Pistons player to be selected since Blake Griffin earned the honor in 2019. He’d also be the first Detroit guard to earn an All-Star bid since Hall of Famer Allen Iverson in 2009. So what makes Cunningham an All-Star?
“First, just letting him know how lethal he is (in the post),” Jack said. “I thought he would venture down there occasionally, rather than being a little bit more deliberate in the spots he wants to operate from. I’m like, ‘Look man, the post is kind of an easy command center for you.’
“If they play you one-on-one, we’ll take that matchup every night, especially if we can run them into a pick-and-roll with a small or someone who doesn’t want to switch. And then if they double, you’re a willing passer, which allows rhythm shots for your role players and forces defenses to be in rotation.
“If they mess up, you can pick them apart three to five feet from the basket.”
In this video, 6-foot-9 Jaden McDaniels of the Minnesota Timberwolves is one of the league’s best perimeter defenders, but Cunningham takes him to the post and scores, just as Jack mentioned. Cunningham shoots his highest percentage (53.6) from less than five feet, which makes sense given his 6-foot-6 frame.
The more isolated looks he gets in the post, regardless of who’s guarding him, the better.
When Cunningham has a smaller defender on him in the post, he’s likely going to draw another defender, which causes the defense to be out of position.
In this play, Cunningham has a height advantage of five inches over Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard. Cunningham backs him down, forcing Luke Kornet to rotate over as a help defender.
Kornet leaves Ron Holland II open for a 3-pointer, and Cunningham skips it across the court for the easy triple by Holland. Consistently this season, Cunningham makes plays out of double-teams to create easy shots for his teammates.
And finally, watch how Cunningham creates offense for himself. He seeks out a mismatch with Darius Garland, who was initially guarding Tim Hardaway Jr. Cunningham gets Garland into a screen-and-roll situation, knowing Garland would switch to him.
Cunningham takes Garland into the post, is patient as Jarrett Allen rotates over to help, steps back and sinks a jumper over the outstretched arms of both Garland and Allen.
The Jack-inspired conversations that help lead to these actions are important to Cunningham.
“I already had a skill set down there (in the post),” Cunningham said. “It was something he said I could draw a lot more attention doing by getting comfortable down there throughout the game. First couple of games, I got straight to it and I felt like I was converting for us every possession early on.
“Then it kind of just stuck, I kind of just stuck with it and it became more and more a part of our offense.”
And it just isn’t the on-court improvements, Jack also is excited about Cunningham’s maturity.
“He’s a joy to be around,” Jack said with a smile. “There’s some guys in that position to maybe use their status to maybe not be so cool, or maybe not be so inclusive with the group. But he’s very much a part of the guys, part of this thing and I think it shows true to what he and what we went through last year.
“To meet that head-on, take it on the chin and now come back and take on a new challenge — and he’s got us potentially fighting for a playoff spot.”
Pistons assistant coach Jarrett Jack and guard Cade Cunningham analyze some video before a game. (Chris Schwegler / NBAE via Getty Images)
Cunningham’s leadership has teammates having career seasons or the best seasons they’ve had in years.
Before Jaden Ivey broke his left fibula, he was on pace for career bests in points, field-goal percentage, 3-point percentage, rebounds and steals.
Malik Beasley is working on his second-highest scoring season and is on pace to shatter his previous high for made 3s in a season.
Cunningham will find out Thursday if he’s an All-Star for the first time.
The NBA announced its All-Star starters on Jan. 23 with Donovan Mitchell and Jalen Brunson earning the nod for the Eastern Conference backcourt. Cunningham is averaging more points, rebounds and assists than Mitchell with a better field-goal percentage. He also is posting more rebounds and assists than Brunson, while averaging one fewer point.
Factor in Cunningham’s impact on Detroit winning nine more games this season than it did the entire 2023-24 season, and he has a legitimate All-Star case. Entering Wednesday, the combo guard is averaging 24.8 points on 45.2 percent shooting (36.3 percent on 3-pointers), 9.4 assists and 6.4 rebounds. All are career highs.
He also has 20 double-doubles this season and his seven triple-doubles only trail Domantas Sabonis (eight) with LeBron James (nine) and Nikola Jokić (21). Both James and Jokić were selected as All-Star starters last week.
And Cunningham believes he should be in San Francisco playing with the best of the best on Feb. 16.
“Whenever I’m on the court every night, I feel like I’m the best player,” Cunningham said. “I try to do whatever it takes to help my team win, and my teammates have made me look great this year. I’m just trying to help my team win, and we’ll see what happens with it.”
(Top photo of Cunningham: Chris Schwegler / NBAE via Getty Images)
Cade Cunningham, the talented rookie guard for the Detroit Pistons, has been turning heads with his impressive play and sheer talent on the court. With the NBA All-Star game just around the corner, it’s time to make a case for why Cunningham deserves to be among the league’s elite players in his very first season.
First and foremost, Cunningham’s stats speak for themselves. Averaging 14.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, he has shown that he can contribute in multiple facets of the game. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate for his teammates makes him a versatile threat on the court.
Additionally, Cunningham has shown a maturity and poise beyond his years. Despite being a rookie, he has displayed a high basketball IQ and a knack for making the right plays in clutch situations. His leadership on the court has been instrumental in the Pistons’ recent success, and his impact on the team cannot be understated.
Furthermore, Cunningham’s impact goes beyond just his individual stats. He has helped elevate the play of his teammates and has been a key factor in the Pistons’ improved performance this season. His presence on the court has made everyone around him better, and his influence on the game is undeniable.
In conclusion, Cade Cunningham has proven himself to be a standout player in his rookie season, and his performance warrants serious consideration for a spot on the NBA All-Star team. His impressive stats, leadership qualities, and impact on the Pistons make a strong case for why he deserves to be among the best players in the league this season. Let’s hope the coaches and fans recognize his talent and vote him into the All-Star game.
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Cade Cunningham, NBA All-Star, Pistons guard, basketball, deserving, recognition, talent, young player, rising star, NBA season, standout performance
Iowa Hawkeyes offensive lineman Logan Joness lifts quarterback Cade McNamara into the air after McNamara threw a touchdown pass during the Hawkeyes’ win over Illinois State last Aug. 31 at Kinnick Stadium. (Nick Rohlman/The Gazette)
The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
Cade McNamara, Iowa’s Opening Day starting quarterback the last two seasons, is transferring to East Tennessee State for his final collegiate season.
As reported by Pete Nakos of On3, McNamara is going to the FCS program in the Southern Conference.
McNamara came to Iowa from Michigan in December 2022. He was the starting quarterback for the Wolverines’ 2021 Big Ten champions.
His time at Iowa was injury-plagued. He didn’t play in either of the Hawkeyes’ bowl games the last two years. He tore an ACL during the 2023 season, and had a concussion in midseason last year.
He played in 13 games for Iowa, throwing 10 touchdown passes and 8 interceptions.
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Former Iowa Hawkeye quarterback Cade McNamara has announced his decision to transfer to FCS school East Tennessee State. McNamara, who entered the transfer portal earlier this month, cited a desire for more playing time and the opportunity to showcase his talents at the next level.
The talented signal-caller spent two seasons at Iowa, where he saw limited action behind starter Spencer Petras. Despite his limited playing time, McNamara showed flashes of potential and impressed with his arm strength and accuracy.
At East Tennessee State, McNamara will have the opportunity to compete for the starting job and lead the Buccaneers' offense. The FCS program has a history of developing quarterbacks and providing a platform for players to showcase their skills to NFL scouts.
McNamara's decision to transfer to East Tennessee State is a bold move, but one that could pay off in the long run. With his talent and determination, he has the potential to make a significant impact at the FCS level and continue his football career at the next level. Good luck to Cade McNamara in his new journey with East Tennessee State!
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IOWA CITY — Former Iowa football quarterback Cade McNamara has found the next stop in his football career.
The ex-Hawkeye and Michigan quarterback committed to FCS-level East Tennessee State University on Saturday.
In two injured-riddled seasons with the Hawkeyes, McNamara appeared in 13 games, throwing for 1,522 yards, 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions with a 57.3% completion percentage.
McNamara shared this message via social media in December:
“My last two years at the University of Iowa have been an incredible journey. Through so many ups and downs, I couldn’t be more thankful for the amazing people and experiences I’ve had here. I am deeply grateful for the relationships I’ve built with my teammates, coaches, and newfound friends.
“I want to specifically thank Coach Ferentz, Coach Lester, and the entire Iowa football staff for their unwavering support and wisdom. I will truly miss this program and state, and they will always hold a special place in my heart.
“With that being said, I will be entering the transfer portal.
“I’m looking forward to this offseason, being the healthiest I’ve been in years, and continuing my growth as a player, leader, and person. I am excited to see where God takes my football journey next.
“Now and forever, Go Hawks!”
McNamara’s once hopeful career at Iowa did not go as planned. But now the signal caller will get a fresh start at East Tennessee State.
McNamara has thrown for more than 4,700 yards in his college career with a passing touchdown to interception ratio of 31-to-15. In 2021, he helped Michigan win a Big Ten title and make an appearance in the College Football Playoff. But since then, McNamara has failed to play a full season as he has battled major injuries.
Follow Tyler Tachman on X @Tyler_T15, contact via email at ttachman@gannett.com
Former Iowa football quarterback Cade McNamara has announced his commitment to East Tennessee State University. The talented signal-caller decided to transfer from Iowa in search of more playing time and a fresh start.
McNamara, a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, showed flashes of potential during his time with the Hawkeyes but was unable to secure the starting job. Now, he will have the opportunity to compete for the starting quarterback position at ETSU and showcase his skills on the field.
The Buccaneers are getting a dynamic and talented quarterback in McNamara, who has the ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. With his experience at the collegiate level and determination to succeed, McNamara has the potential to make a significant impact for ETSU in the upcoming season.
Fans of East Tennessee State football can look forward to seeing McNamara lead the team on the field and help them compete for championships in the future. His commitment to the program is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game, and he is sure to make a lasting impact during his time with the Buccaneers.
McNamara began his college career at Michigan. While with the Wolverines, McNamara led the squad to a Big Ten title and College Football Playoff berth as the starter in 2021. He lost the starting job to J.J. McCarthy and transferred after the 2022 season, spending the next two seasons at Iowa.
“My last two years at the University of Iowa have been an incredible journey,” McNamara said. “Through so many ups and downs, I couldn’t be more thankful for the amazing people and experiences I’ve had here. I am deeply grateful for the relationships I’ve built with my teammates, coaches, and newfound friends. I want to specifically thank Coach Ferentz, Coach Lester, and the entire Iowa Football staff for their unwavering support and wisdom. I will truly miss this program and state, and they will always hold a special place in my heart.
“With that being said, I will be entering the transfer portal. I’m looking forward to this offseason, being the healthiest I’ve been in years, and continuing my growth as a player, leader, and person. I am excited to see where God takes my football journey next. Now and forever, Go Hawks!”
In his college career, McNamara has completed 60.9% of his passes for 4703 yards and 31 touchdowns with 15 interceptions. His best season came in 2021 when he led the Wolverines to a Big Ten title. McNamara started 14 games that year, completing 64.2% of his passes for 2576 yards and 15 touchdowns to six interceptions.
In the rest of his college career, McNamara played in 20 games and threw for 2127 yards in those games while completing passes at a 57.8% rate. He has 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions in those games.
As a member of the Class of 2019, McNamara was a four-star recruit out of Reno (Nev.) Damonte Ranch, according to the On3 Industry Ranking , a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 1 overall prospect in the state, the No. 13 quarterback in the class and the No. 277 overall prospect in the class.
To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire .
Former Michigan and Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara has officially signed with East Tennessee State University (ETSU) to continue his collegiate football career.
McNamara, a highly touted recruit out of high school, saw limited playing time at both Michigan and Iowa before ultimately deciding to transfer to ETSU. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound signal-caller is expected to compete for the starting quarterback position and bring a wealth of experience and talent to the Buccaneers’ offense.
Fans of ETSU are eager to see what McNamara can bring to the team and are hopeful that he will help lead them to success in the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates on McNamara’s journey with ETSU. #GoBucs
On Wednesday night, the Detroit Pistons are back at home after a four-game stretch on the road out West. Cade Cunningham and the Pistons are set to host the Orlando Magic.
Heading into the matchup, the Pistons downgraded Cunningham on the injury report. While he hasn’t dealt with anything notable since his groin injury last month, Cunningham seems to be dealing with a minor knee setback.
According to the official NBA injury report, Cunningham was probable to play. He has officially been upgraded to available against the Magic.
Cade Cunningham (knee) listed available to play Wednesday.
It’s been quite a while since the Pistons found success over the Magic. On December 28, 2022, the Pistons defeated the Magic for the last time, which extended a three-game win streak for Detroit.
Since then, the Pistons have gone winless against their Eastern Conference competitor. Last month, the Magic extended their win streak to seven games. At the time, Cunningham was not on the court.
Jaden Ivey and Malik Beasley had to lead the way for the Pistons. Beasley shot 7-12 from the field to score 18 points. Ivey led the way with 19 points on 6-16 shooting from the field.
With a Franz Wagner scoring outburst, the Magic took down the Pistons with a 111-100 win.
At this stage in the season, the Magic are missing many notable names. Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Moritz Wagner are a few names that Orlando won’t have in Detroit this week. Although they are 20-14 on the year, the Magic have gone 4-6 in their last ten games.
Cade Cunningham and the Pistons will look to snap the streak on Wednesday at 7 PM ET.
Cade Cunningham’s Official Playing Status for Pistons-Magic Game
After much anticipation, the Detroit Pistons have officially announced that rookie sensation Cade Cunningham will be suiting up for tonight’s game against the Orlando Magic. The highly touted number one overall draft pick has been sidelined with an ankle injury for the past few games, but has been cleared to return to action.
Fans have been eagerly awaiting Cunningham’s return to the court, as he has already shown flashes of brilliance in his young NBA career. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has made him a standout player to watch, and his presence on the court is sure to give the Pistons a much-needed boost.
With Cunningham back in the lineup, the Pistons will be looking to secure a much-needed win against the Magic. Be sure to tune in to see Cade Cunningham in action and witness the future of the Detroit Pistons. Let’s go Pistons! #CadeCunningham #DetroitPistons #NBA
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Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, NBA, basketball, playing status, injury update, game day, starting lineup
And not just with All-Star-caliber players like Scottie Barnes, Franz Wagner, and Alperen Sengun, either. Both rounds are littered with names that have carved out respectable NBA careers, making for one of the most talent-rich drafts in recent history.
Here’s a re-examination of the first round with the benefit of hindsight, weighted more on the respective players’ careers to date than the team-specific needs at the time of the draft.
Stats reflect NBA career regular-season totals.
2021 draft: 1st pick (DET)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
164
43.6
33.7
84.4
5.4
7.0
20.6
Cunningham’s potential is shining through now that he’s healthy. The former No. 1 overall pick is one of five players in the NBA averaging at least 20 points, seven boards, and seven assists. His elite size at the point provides more playmaking opportunities, while his 220-pound frame helps him power through defenders on drives to the basket. He’s been an impact defender as well, using his length to create deflections and contest shots.
2021 draft: 4th pick (TOR) Actual 2nd pick: Jalen Green
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
228
47.1
30.7
75.9
7.4
4.9
16.8
The 2022 Rookie of the Year overcame a relatively underwhelming second campaign with the Raptors to earn an All-Star nod in 2023-24 – the only player in the class with that distinction – and has continued that growth this season despite missing 13 games due to injury. Barnes has improved his playmaking skills and seemingly matured as an on-court leader for a team that views him as a franchise cornerstone.
2021 draft: 8th pick (ORL) Actual 3rd pick: Evan Mobley
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
256
47.7
33
85.4
4.7
3.6
18.4
The younger Wagner bro has been a revelation for the Magic this season, especially in Paolo Banchero’s absence, and would have been a lock to make his first All-Star Game had he not suffered a torn oblique muscle at the beginning of December. Wagner has lived near the rim this season: His 12.3 points per game in the paint is the 12th-best mark in the league.
2021 draft: 3rd pick (CLE) Actual 4th pick: Scottie Barnes
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
226
54.7
29.6
69.4
8.9
2.8
16.0
A foundational piece for the Cavaliers’ league-best start this season, Mobley was the right prospect on the board for the franchise to select after the Rockets picked Green. An All-Defensive first-team selection in his second campaign, the 23-year-old has flashed defensive versatility from the perimeter to the paint. While his offensive attack can be inconsistent, Mobley has increased his scoring (18.5) and efficiency (60.8% eFG) to new heights.
2021 draft: 16th pick (OKC, rights traded to HOU) Actual 5th pick: Jalen Suggs
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
239
52.1
28.0
71.4
8.2
3.9
15.4
Sengun’s rapidly become one of the league’s best offensive bigs under the age of 25. A nightly double-double threat, he’s also a pivotal facilitator in the Rockets’ system; they’re shooting 48.4% on twos (8.4 attempts per game) set up by the Turkish center this year. The Magic did well taking Wagner, but a big-man tandem of Sengun and Banchero would also have been fun to watch.
2021 draft: 20th pick (ATL) Actual 6th pick: Josh Giddey
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
176
50.4
33.0
71.1
6.1
2.5
10.7
Johnson has looked like a future All-Star at times on a frisky Hawks squad. In an offense geared toward Trae Young, Johnson has been able to pick his spots and show growth as an offensive creator. The uber-athletic 6-foot-9 wing has a career-high usage rate (22.3%) and assist rate (22.7%) while maintaining his efficiency from the floor (54.5eFG). His 2.5 stocks (steals plus blocks) also show his high-level activity on the defensive end.
2021 draft: 2nd pick (HOU) Actual 7th pick: Jonathan Kuminga
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
254
41.9
33.4
80.2
4.2
3.2
19.7
Green has shown flashes of the go-to scorer the Rockets envisioned. The California native can blow by defenders with his explosive first step, create separation on step-backs, and has the athleticism to finish the most acrobatic attempts at the rim. He just hasn’t been able to put it all together consistently. Green’s 3-point shooting and playmaking haven’t progressed, either, and he hasn’t found a way to be as effective playing off the ball.
2021 draft: 5th (ORL) Actual 8th pick: Franz Wagner
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
205
41.9
32.8
78.1
3.3
3.3
12.2
Suggs has blossomed into an elite defender, averaging 1.5 steals and a stingy 105.1 defensive rating this season. The Gonzaga product is also one of just four guards to average one or more blocks this year and has ranked top-three in deflections per game every season among the class of 2021. But his offense is lacking, as he never eclipsed 15 points per game before this season and is a career 41.9% shooter.
2021 draft: 7th pick (GSW) Actual 9th pick: Davion Mitchell
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
237
51.1
34.0
69.1
4.0
1.7
12.3
The Warriors hoped Kuminga’s athleticism and physical tools would help him develop into a foundational two-way piece. He’s had long stretches of consistent scoring and shown versatility as a small-ball five, but his jumper and playmaking haven’t improved since entering the NBA. There’s still time for Kuminga to reach his potential, but it may not happen in Golden State with the team trying to maximize Stephen Curry’s final seasons.
2021 draft: 17th pick (MEM, rights traded to NOP) Actual 10th pick: Ziaire Williams (rights traded to MEM)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
215
45.4
38.7
86.9
3.7
1.5
12.3
Murphy may be one of the most underrated players to come out of the 2021 draft. The 6-foot-8 wing was touted for his shooting coming out of his junior year at Virginia and has more than lived up to that billing; of all players drafted in 2021 with at least 50 career 3-point attempts, he owns the highest true-shooting percentage (61.7%). That’s even more impressive when you realize Murphy’s attempted 1,265 threes in the NBA.
2021 draft: 27th pick (BKN) Actual 11th pick: James Bouknight
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
207
44.2
35.1
85.7
2.5
2.0
14.9
Thomas slid to No. 27 in the draft despite leading all freshmen in scoring (23 PPG) in his one season at LSU. After a maiden NBA campaign split between the Nets and their G League affiliate, Thomas broke out in the second half of his second season, becoming the youngest player in NBA history to score 40 or more points in three straight games. He’s never seen a shot that he didn’t like.
2021 draft: UDFA (LAL) Actual 12th pick: Josh Primo
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
231
48.5
36.3
84.8
3.6
3.9
12.9
The Lakers unearthed a diamond in the rough, as Reaves has developed into a steady perimeter option. The 26-year-old has steadily improved his scoring and playmaking each season, averaging a career-best 17.0 points per game this year. His real breakout came in the 2023 playoffs, contributing 16.9 points during the Lakers’ unlikely run to the West finals.
2021 draft: 6th pick (OKC) Actual 13th pick: Chris Duarte
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
237
46.3
31.2
74.6
7.2
5.9
13.7
Giddey was the centerpiece of a deal this past offseason that sent two-time All-Defensive guard Alex Caruso to Oklahoma City. The Australian is 12th in the league with a 35.3% assist rate this season but has struggled to become an effective scorer, averaging a career-low 11.9 points per game in his fourth campaign.
2021 draft: 35th pick (NOP) Actual 14th pick: Moses Moody
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
232
47.8
36.7
82
3.8
2.4
10.2
There was no chance Jones would fall out of the first round again if teams had the benefit of hindsight. The former Alabama talent has been more than just one of the Pelicans’ best defenders every season; he’s been among the league’s elite perimeter stoppers since his rookie campaign.
2021 draft: 30th pick (UTA, rights traded to MEM) Actual 15th pick: Corey Kispert
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
200
45.9
34.3
70.3
5.2
1.7
9.4
The Spaniard Aldama – who is second on the Grizzlies in rebounds (7.4) and is fourth in scoring (13.3) and minutes played (26.4) – has emerged as one of the league’s top bench players. Not too shabby for the last pick of the first round in 2021.
2021 draft: 38th pick Actual 16th pick: Alperen Sengun (rights traded to HOU)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
263
50.2
36.2
77.4
2.9
3.2
10.1
There hasn’t been much to cheer about the Bulls in recent years, but Dosunmu’s steady rise for his hometown team has been a nice story. The Illinois product has carved out a role with his continued improvement as a scorer and playmaker.
2021 draft: 18th pick Actual 17th pick: Trey Murphy III (rights traded to NOP)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
181
41.1
35.0
78.8
2.9
2.3
9.4
Mann broke out with the Hornets after a few forgettable seasons with the Thunder. He’s averaged 12.6 points, 4.5 assists, four rebounds, and 1.3 steals since landing in Charlotte.
2021 draft: 15th pick Actual 18th pick: Tre Mann
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
253
47.6
38.3
79.6
2.8
1.4
10.9
Kispert has been one of the main contributors off of the Wizards’ bench since joining the league, including scoring the second-most points among Washington reserves this season. The Washington native also holds a 38.3% career mark from three.
2021 draft: UDFA (BOS) Actual 19th pick: Kai Jones (rights traded to CHA)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
207
44.8
41.5
81.6
2.8
0.9
7.1
From going undrafted to earning a three-year, $6-million deal to becoming an instrumental part of the Celtics’ 2023-24 title-winning team, Hauser has emerged as a vital frontcourt option and reliable perimeter threat for Joe Mazzulla’s squad.
2021 draft: 36th (OKC, rights traded to NYK) Actual 20th pick: Jalen Johnson
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
196
41.3
36.7
77.1
1.3
1.5
5.7
McBride has hit his stride this year, averaging career highs in points, assists, rebounds, steals, and 3-point percentage. He’s one of just three players on the Knicks to hold a 3PT% over 40 while shooting five or more attempts per game.
2021 draft: 55th pick (OKC) Actual 21st pick: Keon Johnson (rights traded to LAC)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
226
50.3
39.3
78.0
2.9
1.2
7.4
Wiggins has quietly been a critical member of the second unit on a Thunder squad whose starting five deservingly attracts so much attention. The former Maryland standout boasts OKC’s fourth-highest usage rate (among players with at least 200 minutes) at 18.6%.
2021 draft: 25th pick (LAC, rights traded to NYK) Actual 22nd pick: Isaiah Jackson (rights traded to IND)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
195
43.5
37.5
75.9
2.7
1.5
8.6
Grimes has struggled to find his footing, and a knee injury held him to just 51 games in 2023-24. Now on his third team in four seasons, the 24-year-old has stayed healthy and is shooting a career-best percentage from the field and from three.
2021 draft: 14th pick (GSW) Actual 23rd pick: Usman Garuba
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
205
45.4
36.2
75.1
2.1
0.7
6.0
Moody was one of the Warriors’ two lottery picks in the 2021 class. The Arkansas product has yet to break out, but he’s proven to be an effective 3-point shooter and defender at times.
2021 draft: UDFA (NOP) Actual 24th pick: Josh Christopher
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
182
41.8
34.8
74.3
2.2
2.8
7.7
Like his trademark knack for sneaking up on unsuspecting ball-handlers from behind to snatch a steal, “Grand Theft Alvarado” was largely overlooked during the draft only to grow into the role of a scrappy nuisance off the Pelicans’ bench.
2021 draft: 22nd (LAL, rights traded to IND) Actual 25th pick: Quentin Grimes (rights traded to NYK)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
BLK
REB
PTS
163
59.5
20.6
67.1
1.3
4.3
7.2
Jackson was cementing himself as the Pacers’ first-choice backup center before an Achilles tear cut short his 2024-25 campaign after five games. His 66.5% field-goal percentage led Indiana last season, and he looked on course to do it again this year at 60.9%.
2021 draft: 46th pick (TOR) Actual 26th pick: Bones Hyland
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
174
41.1
30.4
71.3
2.3
1.9
6.6
Fun fact: Banton has the second-highest plus-minus with a minimum of 200 minutes played (plus-22), trailing only three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. At the very least, Banton is capable of running a second unit with some efficiency.
2021 draft: 9th pick (SAC) Actual 27th pick: Cam Thomas
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
255
43.1
32.5
69.8
1.7
3.0
7.4
While his rookie year with the Kings might have been his best scoring season, Mitchell has been a better distributor in his first campaign with the Raptors – averaging a career-high five assists. He’s also remained a disruptive defender.
2021 draft: 10th pick (NOP, rights traded to MEM) Actual 28th pick: Jaden Springer
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
171
42.3
29.8
80.1
2.8
1.2
7.7
Williams has found a niche as an energy wing off the bench with the Nets. The 23-year-old has been a positive on offense for the first time in his career; Brooklyn is 2.1 points better per 100 possessions on offense when he’s on the floor.
2021 draft: 21st pick (NYK, rights traded to LAC) Actual 29th pick: Day’Ron Sharpe (rights traded to BKN)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
109
35.7
32.3
75.8
2.0
1.5
6.0
Now on his third team, it seems Johnson has finally found a place to stay. However, he continues to struggle as a scorer, shooting just 28.4% from three this campaign while never averaging double-digit points per game in a season.
2021 draft: 29th pick (PHO, rights traded to BKN) Actual 30th pick: Santi Aldama (rights traded to MEM)
GP
FG%
3PT%
FT%
REB
AST
PTS
149
55.4
31.8
63.1
5.3
1.0
6.0
Originally the second-to-last pick of the first round, Sharpe has carved out a dependable role as a backup center for the Nets. The former UNC product is averaging a career-best 7.6 points in less than 16 minutes a night.
In the highly anticipated 2021 NBA redraft, the burning question on everyone’s mind is whether Cade Cunningham will still go No. 1 overall. The former Oklahoma State star was the top pick in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, but will he retain that spot in this redraft?
While Cade Cunningham is still a highly coveted prospect, there are other players who have made significant moves in the redraft rankings. Players like Evan Mobley, Jalen Green, and Scottie Barnes have all impressed with their performances in their rookie seasons and have made strong cases for the top spot.
One player who has made a particularly big move in the redraft rankings is Franz Wagner. The Orlando Magic rookie has been a standout performer in his first season, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess. Wagner has quickly risen up the ranks and is now considered a top pick in the redraft.
As the 2021 NBA redraft unfolds, it will be interesting to see if Cade Cunningham can hold onto the top spot or if another player will emerge as the new No. 1 pick. With so much talent and potential in this draft class, anything is possible. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on the 2021 NBA redraft.
