Basketball

Kobe Bryant's childhood home in Pennsylvania -- where the late basketball legend spent countless hours working on his skills -- has just sold for $810k, TMZ Sports has learned.

The Black Mamba lived in the 5-bed, 3 1/2-bath, Philadelphia-area home during his teenage years ... when he quickly became one of the best hoopers in the country, leading his Lower Merion HS team to a state title in 1996.

The Bryant family parted ways with the home in 2008 ... and it hit the market again this past September for $899k.

According to records, the home closed on Nov. 6 ... and sold for $810k. David Wyher and TJ Sokso of Compass represented the listing.

Of course, $810k is a pretty symbolic number -- Kobe's forever tied to #81 after his iconic 81-point performance against the Toronto Raptors on Jan 22, 2006.

The home is beautiful, but the most sentimental part has to be the hoop ... which is the same one Bryant used before becoming one of the best players to ever pick up a ball.

Unclear on what the buyer plans to do with the hoop ... but it's gotta be worth a fortune -- Kobe memorabilia like his Lakers championship rings to game-worn shoes and autographed hardwood from his last NBA game have sold for huge numbers at auctions since his death.

Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, were among 9 killed in a helicopter crash in Jan. 2020.

No word on who bought the iconic home ... but one thing's for sure -- they *had* to know the significance of the place.

Former college basketball star Austin Daye is paying tribute to the late Nipsey Hussle ... by honoring the rap legend with a massive back tattoo.

The 32-year-old pro hooper -- a massive Nip fan -- revealed the new ink on Monday ... which also features an image of Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali.

Daye hit up tattoo artist Juan D Castaño for the job ... and we're assuming it took hours to finish the piece, which also features a "The Marathon Continues" flag.

Of course, the TMC slogan was Nip's motto ... and followers have carried his message since his passing in March 2019.

The former NBA first-round pick joins ballers like Jordan Clarkson and J.R. Smith ... who have both dedicated serious real estate to the L.A. MC.

FYI -- Daye has been tearing it up overseas. He's currently playing for Reyer Venezia and won the Italian Cup MVP in 2020.

The family of the man who was struck and killed by Jim Boeheim in a tragic 2019 car crash is now suing the hoops coach ... claiming the Syracuse legend was responsible for the man’s death.

It's all in a new lawsuit obtained by TMZ Sports ... in which Jorge Jiminez's family is going after Boeheim after they say the 75-year-old coach is to blame for Jiminez's death.

In the suit, Jiminez's family says Boeheim "was travelling at a high rate of speed and/or was otherwise negligent in the operation of the vehicle" ... which they claim led to the tragedy.

As we previously reported, Boeheim was on his way home from dinner on Feb. 20, 2019 at around 11 PM when cops say he encountered a disabled vehicle in the middle of Route 690 in the City of Syracuse.

Cops say when Boeheim swerved to dodge the car ... he accidentally struck and killed Jiminez, who had just exited the broken down ride.

Cops launched an investigation into the incident ... and while they ultimately found Boeheim was going 11 MPH over the 55 MPH speed limit prior to the wreck -- they classified it all as a "tragic accident" and declined to move forward with charges.

Now though, Jiminez's family clearly wants Boeheim to pay up for his role in the incident ... suing both the coach and Syracuse University for unspecified damages.

Neither the school nor Boeheim commented on the lawsuit Monday.

How'd J.R. Smith celebrate Joe Biden's victory?

He drove around bumping "F*** Donald Trump" and flipping off MAGA supporters.

So yeah, just as you'd expect ...

The L.A. Lakers star hit the streets (of what appear to be Beverly Hills) on Sunday -- where he blasted the YG song from his BMW, while leaning out of his window and shooting the bird at all of the pro-Trump protesters he saw.

Smith loved every second of it -- and was smiling and laughing while trolling Team MAGA.

Of course, Smith is the latest in a long line of NBA players relishing Biden's victory ... his teammate, LeBron James, has been rejoicing on social media for days -- even waving goodbye to Trump in one tweet.

Trump and the NBA haven't seen eye-to-eye in a long time ... coaches such as Steve Kerr and Gregg Popovich have RIPPED him consistently over the past 4 years.

The president, meanwhile, has been critical of players for kneeling during the anthem in the Orlando bubble this summer ... and he's consistently talked about the league's reportedly low TV ratings.

In fact, at a rally just a few days before his election loss ... Trump got a crowd to chant "LeBron James sucks" after he voiced his displeasure with the Lakers star and the NBA.

Throw another assist on LeBron's resume ...

Shannon Sharpe tells TMZ Sports he STRONGLY believes the NBA superstar deserves some of the credit for helping Joe Biden close in on the presidency.

"[LeBron James] and Stacey Abrams registered so many people to vote," Shannon said.

"It was him that said, 'you know what? Open up these arenas and make them polling stations.'"

Sharpe says things like LeBron's "More Than a Vote" organization -- which helped thousands of people register to vote -- as well as all his other charitable contributions put Biden in a position to possibly beat Donald Trump this week.

"I'm sure [LeBron] had something to do with it because we registered the voting block. "

"You look at what happened in Detroit, you look at what happened in Philadelphia, look at what happened in Atlanta, you look at what happened in Milwaukee."

"Now, I don't know what's going to transpire, but when President Biden, when this thing is finally official, his first meeting should be with the leaders from those communities. They should eat first! What can I do for those communities? That was his Moses. They delivered him the presidency. "

For his part, Bron celebrated like crazy on Friday -- when it appeared obvious to him that Biden would secure the White House ... writing on his social media page, "Let’s go!!!!!"

King Von's death is hitting the sports world hard -- with NBA stars like Montrezl Harrell, Stephen Jackson, Evan Turner and more mourning the loss of a rising star gone too soon.

The rapper was shot and killed after a violent altercation outside a nightclub in Atlanta on Friday. He was only 26 years old.

Harrell shared his condolences to Von's family shortly after the news broke ... saying, "Damn it’s sad we lost another young brother to soon ... What is going on in the world."

"This the true sad part, three young blessings won’t see their dad come home again."

Jackson posted a video on Instagram ... calling for an end to senseless violence.

"Your brothers are not the enemy," Jackson said. "The ones got u thinking that are the real enemy. Wake up. Love for all who have love for all."

Turner also reacted on social media, saying, "This killing each other s**t gotta stop... Rest In Peace, King Von"

Other tributes came from athletes like Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Kenjon Barner, who said, "Damn I really just started listening to King Von and became a fan and he gone smh wow 2020 you got it we understand! RIPKingVon."

2016 NCAA champ Kris Jenkins spoke out in shock ... tweeting, "That king Von s**t wild smh RIP."

Ex-NFL first-round pick George Foster also recently came across Von's music, adding, "Man, I just really heard the King Von fella for the first time like last week, and thought 'jit ain’t bad.'"

"Now lil buddy gone smh."

The New England Patriots also honored the late rapper at practice on Friday ... playing his breakout hit, "Crazy Story," over the speakers.

RIP

Trae Young with the assist!!!

The Atlanta Hawks superstar did a VERY cool thing on Friday -- splurging for lunch for the people counting ballots at State Farm Arena ... and they couldn't be happier about it!

The 22-year-old NBA sensation's rep hit up Jason's Deli in midtown Atlanta -- and told the crew Young wanted to do something nice for everyone helping out with the election process.

Young ended up buying 50 boardroom box lunches -- complete with sandwiches, chips, a pickle and a cookie. He also sprung for extra fruit side items for all. Way to keep it healthy!

Total cost -- $670 plus a nice 20% tip.

Obviously, Young can afford it -- he's super-rich, but this is more about the gesture than the price.

The Fulton County election workers were stoked when the food arrived with a note from Young that read, "Thanks for all you do!"

Fulton County thanked Young and the ATL Hawks -- noting the NBA team has "supported us throughout this election process."

There's a ton of pressure on the election workers in ATL right now -- as the votes in that area are playing a pivotal role in the presidential election.

Delonte West's still got it!!!

The ex-NBA star has taken his recovery to the hardwood ... hitting the basketball court to brush up on his skills this week -- and the dude looks GREAT!!!

The 37-year-old has looked better by the day as he bounces back from troubled times -- from horseback riding to skydiving to kayaking as part of his treatment process.

West was even spotted polishing his handles and jumper during a workout in Florida on Nov. 2 ... and we're told he was in great spirits!!!

Instagram user og__chris19 tells TMZ Sports ... Delonte was talking about how he was happy to be back on the court, focused on recovery and getting better.

Get this -- we're told West even said he wanted to get into coaching in the future.

It's been an amazing sign of progress for West since Mark Cuban picked him up at a Dallas gas station back in September ... and it's clear he's working hard on staying committed.

Lamar Odom's fiancee says she's called off their engagement -- and is raising new concerns that he's backsliding in life.

"Y'all know I'm honest and transparent so I have to be the first to let you guys know that I am no longer engaged to Lamar," Sabrina Parr posted Wednesday night on IG.

"This has been a difficult decision for me to make but it is the best for myself and my children."

Here's the troubling part ...

"Lamar has some things that he alone needs to work through," Parr said.

"I love him dearly but I am no longer able to be by his side while he seeks the help he so desperately needs."

Parr did not specify what she's concerned about -- but Odom's issues are no secret. He's struggled with substance abuse over the years and nearly died from an overdose during a 2015 incident at a Nevada brothel.

"I wish him all the best and I am asking that you pray for everyone involved," Parr added.

40-year-old Odom had proposed to Parr (a fitness and life coach) at Myles Chefetz's Prime 112 restaurant in Miami back in November while dining with pal Nene Leakes.

They had only been dating for 3 months at the time but felt there was a connection.

NBA forward Alize Johnson's mom says she was at a loss for words when she was gifted with a new house ... telling TMZ Sports she was BLOWN AWAY by her son's huge gesture.

As we previously reported, the 24-year-old Indiana Pacers player surprised his whole family with a new home in Williamsport, PA ... as a "thank you" for helping him reach his dreams as a professional NBA player.

We spoke with Johnson's mom, Chanelle, about the incredible moment ... and she broke down exactly what it was like to be surprised with the new digs!!

"I'm very proud, very proud and just speechless," Chanelle told us. "Speechless for the things that he's done and just his heart and his humility through the whole process."

"But, he's always been a humble kid but just to see him take care of us before his self is just -- it's mind-blowing."

As for who gets to decorate the new crib, the hooper says he only has a few requests.

"I told them, 'When we move in, listen. I don't care about anything but just let me deck the basement out and the outside pool and stuff like that,'" Johnson tells us.

"That's the only thing I was concerned about but beautiful house, beautiful neighborhood and we're gonna have some good memories there and I'm looking forward to my siblings getting in there and having it to remember growing up."

LeBron James is pleading with citizens of Akron, Ohio to help police in a murder case involving his good friend's sister ... saying Wednesday, "My city I need y’all to go to work."

Bron's lifelong pal, Brandon Weems -- who's the Cleveland Cavaliers' director of scouting -- lost his sister earlier this week in what officials have ruled a homicide.

According to News 5 in Cleveland, 37-year-old Ericka Weems was found by family members in Akron on Monday with a gunshot wound to her head.

Cops say they've launched an investigation ... but so far, they've made no arrests and say they've yet to identify any suspects.

LeBron is pleading for help to change that ... begging people of his hometown of Akron to come forward if they have any knowledge of the case.

"AKRON OHIO!!" LeBron wrote Wednesday on Twitter. "My brother’s sister was murdered this past weekend in her home! My brother family need answers to why and by whom."

"My city I need y’all to go to work and find out who did this awful, shameful, disgusting thing to such a caring, loving angel! #Justice4EricaWeems."

LeBron and Brandon's friendship goes back decades ... with MLive reporting the two met at Pee Wee football when they were little kids.

The two went on to become teammates on their St. Vincent-St. Mary H.S. basketball team ... and Bron grew so close to Brandon, he's called him his "brother" repeatedly in interviews over the years.

Akron detectives are urging people to call 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2TIP if they have any information regarding the case.

A reward of up to $5,000, meanwhile, has been offered for information by Summit County Crimestoppers as well.

The NBA is one vote away from starting the upcoming season on Dec. 22 ... with owners and players reportedly set to approve the proposed 72-game plan on Thursday.

The decision to start the season before Christmas Day will save the league between $500 million and $1 BILLION, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

The NBPA will meet to officially agree on the quick turnaround -- remember, the Los Angeles Lakers just won the 2020 championship on Oct. 12 after the league initially delayed the season due to COVID-19. back in March.

As of right now, the 2020 NBA Draft is set to go down Nov. 18 ... with training camps opening up Dec. 1.

Indiana Pacers forward Alize Johnson just surprised his family with the ultimate gift by hooking them up with a new home.... and his mother's reaction is PRICELESS!!!

The 24-year-old hooper shared the kind gesture on IG Monday ... saying, "today I surprised them with a New House I always dreamed about living in myself, but I’m taking care of them first because without them, there’s no Alize."

In the clip, Johnson's family walks up to the new crib in their hometown of Williamsport, PA ... and his mother immediately breaking down when she realizes what's going on.

She falls to her knees, "Are you kidding me?!?" -- and Johnson has to literally carry her to the new home.

Amazing!!

Johnson explained his decision for the incredible gesture ... saying, "My family is the reason I go so hard. "The reason I sacrifice everyday and continue to put in work. I just want to see a smile on their faces."

This house is beautiful and the perfect size for his large family -- after all, Johnson is the oldest son of 7 SIBLINGS (4 sisters, 3 brothers).

Pacers star Victor Oladipo praised his teammate for the gesture, "Proud of you slim!! You know what time it is!!! Congrats to the Johnson Family!"

Johnson -- who will become a restricted free agent this off-season -- signed a 2-year contract worth $2.2 million with the Pacers in 2018.

This is GREAT to see -- Delonte West looking happy and physically active at his rehab center!!

Mark Cuban shared some pics of the ex-NBA star as he continues his treatment ... which now includes frisbee golf and kayaking!

Cuban, who was the driving force behind getting 37-year-old West into treatment, commented ... "Because we all want something to feel great about today, here is your Delonte West update."

He added, "It's still an uphill battle, but he is climbing."

As we previously reported, Cuban personally picked up West at a Dallas gas station last month and vowed to help out in any way he could after seeing pics of Delonte in late-September in bad shape, begging for money on the streets.

With the blessing of West's family, Cuban helped get Delonte -- a 2004 1st round NBA Draft pick -- into a treatment program ... and things have been going well ever since.

West started with a detox program -- and our sources told us he was "roughing it out" while getting all traces of drugs and alcohol out of his system.

Since then, he looks to be in a much better place -- he's been horseback riding and staying active ... taking it one day at a time!

"We have to close the game on Tuesday!!!"

That's Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doc Rivers giving a locker-room style speech at a Joe Biden rally on Sunday ... and he's fired up!!!

Rivers -- who was only hired in Philly last month after years in L.A. -- was a featured speaker at Biden's drive-in rally at FDR Park in South Philadelphia.

And, when Doc stepped up to the mic, he didn't hold back!

"We have so much at stake, everybody. We have so much to do still," Doc explained.

"I'm coming up to you as your coach today -- how about that? So, I want you to understand this. We're in the 3rd quarter. The 4th quarter is on Tuesday. We have to close the game on Tuesday."

Rivers -- who used to be friends with Donald Trump back in the day -- claimed POTUS is bad for the country and explained he believes electing Biden/Harris is the best way to repair America.

"This is a country that needs to come together. We have to come together if we want to be great. And the only way we're going to come together is by Joe Biden being our president and Kamala Harris being our Vice President."

Rivers encouraged everyone to vote -- and help others vote!

"And it doesn’t matter how long you have to wait in line — don’t leave that line Tuesday! If you’re there for 1 hour or 2 hours or 3 .… don’t leave that line! You stay the course!"

Rivers also suggested the Trump campaign is using "scare tactics" to prevent Biden supporters from voting.

"You know what bullies do? They start using scare tactics when they have nothing to run on. When they have nothing to say, they try to scare you. Be strong and be mighty and vote."

Shawn Kemp admits he smoked marijuana during his days as an NBA superstar ... and flat out says he has zero regrets, 'cause weed is way SAFER than pain pills.

TMZ Sports talked to the 50-year-old former hooper -- a 6x All-Star who played in the league from 1989 to 2003 -- about weed in the NBA ... and the "Reign Man" was honest when we asked if he blazed as a player.

"When I played, absolutely we smoked pot back in the day when we played. We was responsible with it but we definitely smoked," Kemp says.

Shawn tells us pro athletes put a ton of wear and tear on their body, and need pain relief ... and Kemp says pot is a much safer alternative than addictive and dangerous pain killers.

"For me, with arthritis and different pains in your body, [marijuana] is the perfect solution," SK says.

"Sometimes guys don't like to pop the pills, some guys, they don't wanna take those chances, so this is another way of taking care of yourself professionally, with doing it the right way."

BTW, Shawn knows what he's talking about when it comes to smoking.