When Did The Nets Move To Brooklyn? A Complete Breakdown Of The Team’s Shift

November 26, 2025

The Brooklyn Nets franchise has moved through multiple names, arenas, states, and eras since it was founded. It began as the New Jersey Americans in the ABA (American Basketball Association), became the New York Nets, then the New Jersey Nets in the NBA, and now plays as the Brooklyn Nets in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

Today, we’ll explore the team’s full journey: its relocations across states, rebrands, the evolution of the Brooklyn Nets logo and colors, and the exact timeline of when and why the Nets moved to Brooklyn.

Quick Timeline of the Nets Franchise

1967: Founded as the New Jersey Americans in the ABA.
1968–1976: Became the New York Nets, bouncing around arenas on Long Island.
1974 & 1976: Won two ABA championships behind Julius “Dr. J” Erving.
1976: Joined the NBA in the ABA–NBA merger.
1977–2012: Relocated and rebranded as the New Jersey Nets, playing in Piscataway, then the Meadowlands, and later Newark.
2002 & 2003: Led by Jason Kidd, reached back-to-back NBA Finals.
2012: Moved to Brooklyn, adopted a new black-and-white identity, and became the Brooklyn Nets.

From New Jersey Americans to New York Nets (1967–1973)

The franchise began on February 2, 1967, as the New York Americans in the ABA. Venue complications pushed their first season to the Teaneck Armory in New Jersey, creating the unofficial identity of the New Jersey Americans. Seeking stability, the team rebranded as the New York Nets before the 1968–69 season, playing across Long Island at venues such as Island Garden and later Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, where they moved in 1972.

The turning point arrived on June 20, 1973, when the Nets acquired Julius Erving. His arrival elevated them into ABA contenders, culminating in championships on May 4, 1974, and May 13, 1976, the latter being the ABA’s final title before the merger.

The ABA–NBA Merger and Return to New Jersey (1976–1981)

When the ABA–NBA merger took place on August 5, 1976, the Nets paid $3.2 million to enter the NBA. Days later, the Knicks demanded a $4.8 million indemnity fee for sharing the New York market. Unable to meet both costs, owner Roy Boe sold Julius Erving to Philadelphia on October 20, 1976.

After a 22–60 debut NBA season, financial strain pushed the team to relocate. Following a legal dispute with the Knicks and a settlement finalized in October 1977, the franchise became the New Jersey Nets, playing temporarily at the Rutgers Athletic Center while awaiting a permanent arena.

Meadowlands Era and Early NBA Success (1981–1986)

The Nets’ long-awaited home arrived on October 30, 1981, when they moved into Brendan Byrne Arena at the Meadowlands. That same year, they drafted Buck Williams, who won Rookie of the Year and led the team to one of its most stable stretches.

From 1982 to 1986, the Nets delivered consistent winning seasons and, on April 26, 1984, secured their first NBA playoff series victory. However, suspensions, injuries, and coaching changes gradually slowed the team’s rise, setting the stage for a difficult decade.

Setbacks and Missed Opportunities (1986–1990)

The late 1980s were defined by instability. On February 25, 1986, star guard Micheal Ray Richardson received a lifetime ban for drug violations. Darryl Dawkins’ repeated injuries and the ill-fated decision on June 22, 1987, to draft Dennis Hopson over future stars derailed long-term plans.

By April 1990, the Nets finished with a 17–65 record, one of the lowest points in franchise history, and a sign that another rebuild was unavoidable.

A New Core and Tragedy (1990–1996)

The Nets began fresh by drafting Derrick Coleman on June 27, 1990, and Kenny Anderson on June 26, 1991, then acquiring Dražen Petrović. Their talent pushed New Jersey back into the playoffs in 1992 and 1993, but the run was cut short when Petrović died in a car accident on June 7, 1993.

Despite flashes of success, internal issues and inconsistent leadership weakened the roster, and by 1996, the team again sat near the bottom of the standings.

Rebranding and the Road to Jason Kidd (1996–2001)

On June 25, 1997, the Nets introduced a modern 3D shield logo and debuted a retooled roster built around Sam Cassell, Kerry Kittles, and Keith Van Horn. Injuries and coaching changes prevented sustained progress, and the team continued to hover below contention.

Everything shifted when Rod Thorn became team president on June 2, 2000, laying the groundwork for the most successful period in Nets NBA history.

The Jason Kidd Era and Back-to-Back NBA Finals (2001–2004)

The Nets transformed on June 28, 2001, when they traded for Jason Kidd. With Richard Jefferson, Kenyon Martin, and Kerry Kittles, the Nets surged to a 52–30 record and reached their first NBA Finals on June 1, 2002. They returned the next season, winning the Eastern Conference again on May 22, 2003, before falling to the Spurs.

By 2004, injuries and roster turnover slowed the group. Coach Byron Scott was dismissed on January 26, 2004, and although the Nets still reached the postseason, their Finals window had closed.

Vince Carter, Transition, and the End of the New Jersey Era (2004–2012)

On December 17, 2004, the Nets acquired Vince Carter, ushering in a new competitive phase. Mid-2000s teams regularly reached the playoffs, but lacked the depth to replicate the Kidd-era success. As contracts expired and ownership shifted toward the Brooklyn project, the roster broke apart.

The low point came in the 2009–10 season, when the Nets started 0–18 (an NBA record) and finished 12–70. Ahead of relocation, they played their final New Jersey home game on April 23, 2012, and their final game as the New Jersey Nets on April 26, 2012, when Johan Petro scored the last points in team history in a 98–67 loss to Toronto.

Ownership, Atlantic Yards, and the Move to Brooklyn (2004–2012)

The path to Brooklyn began years earlier when developer Bruce Ratner purchased the Nets on January 21, 2004, intending to relocate the franchise as part of the Atlantic Yards redevelopment in Brooklyn. The proposed arena sat near the site once considered for a Brooklyn Dodgers stadium. After years of lawsuits and delays, Barclays Center finally broke ground on March 11, 2010.

On September 26, 2011, Jay-Z officially announced at a press event in Brooklyn that the team would become the Brooklyn Nets when it relocated for the 2012–13 season. The full rebrand was then unveiled on April 30, 2012, introducing a minimalist black-and-white color scheme and two primary logos inspired directly by 1950s New York City subway rollsigns, including a shield design and a circular “B-ball” emblem.

The branding resonated immediately. Within the first 48 hours, NBA Store merchandise sales were reported to be ten times higher than comparable periods during the franchise’s New Jersey era.

Brooklyn’s First Seasons and a New Image (2012–2016)

The Nets debuted in Brooklyn with their first home game on November 3, 2012, beating Toronto. Their postponed opener vs. the Knicks, delayed by Hurricane Sandy, was played on November 26, 2012.

Seeking immediate contention, the Nets traded for Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett on July 12, 2013, surrendering multiple first-round picks. The gamble produced short-term playoff success but crippled future drafts. By 2016, the franchise had shifted into a full rebuild.

The Rebuild, Surprise Playoff Return, and the Stars Arrive (2016–2020)

A full organizational reconstruction began on February 18, 2016, when the team hired Sean Marks as general manager. Kenny Atkinson joined as head coach on April 17, 2016, and together they built a development-focused program. Without meaningful draft picks because of the 2013 trade, the Nets relied on undervalued players, strong culture, and smart scouting.

Their patience paid off in 2018–19, when D’Angelo Russell became an All-Star, and the Nets returned to the playoffs on April 7, 2019, finishing 42–40.

Momentum carried into free agency when Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving announced their commitments on June 30, 2019, joining the Nets officially on July 7, 2019.

The Durant–Irving–Harden Superteam and Its Collapse (2020–2023)

On January 14, 2021, the Nets traded for James Harden, forming a historic offensive trio. Despite flashes of dominance, injuries and off-court issues derailed cohesion. The Nets lost a heartbreaking Game 7 to Milwaukee on June 19, 2021, remembered for Durant’s toe-on-the-line shot.

The following season saw Kyrie Irving sidelined due to vaccine mandates, Harden requesting a trade on February 10, 2022, and Durant repeatedly seeking exits. By February 9, 2023, both Durant and Irving had been traded, ending the era.

Reset and Long-Term Planning (2023–Present)

After the departures of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, the Nets shifted their focus fully toward assets and development. They hired Kevin Ollie as interim head coach on February 20, 2024, and then named Jordi Fernández the permanent head coach on April 22, 2024, signaling the start of a new direction.

The organization moved further into its rebuild on June 21, 2024, when it traded Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks for a substantial return of future draft picks and movable contracts.

Ahead of the 2025–26 season, Brooklyn acquired Michael Porter Jr. and Terance Mann and brought in several rookies from a deep draft class, reinforcing a long-term approach built on flexibility, player development, and sustainable roster growth.

Accelerating Sea-Level Rise in New Jersey Increases Coastal Flooding Risks

Moses Lookman

November 25, 2025

New Jersey Faces Rising Seas as Sea Level

According to a new scientific assessment from the New Jersey Climate Change Resource Center at Rutgers University, climate change driven by human activity is increasing sea levels throughout New Jersey and raising flood risks for shoreline communities and areas along tidal rivers, marshes, and wetlands.

The publication, issued on Tuesday, spans 155 pages and represents the third installment produced by the center’s Science and Technical Advisory Panel since 2016. Commissioned by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the report incorporates contributions from 144 scientists and compiles the latest research on sea-level trends and coastal storm behavior.

Key Takeaways

New Jersey is projected to see 2.2–3.8 feet of sea-level rise by 2100, increasing to 4.5 feet if ice-sheet melt accelerates.
Atlantic City’s tidal records show a rise of about 1.5 feet since 1912 and a sharp increase in flood days, reaching a record 23 flood days in 2024.
By 2050, Atlantic City is likely to experience 29–148 flood days per year, or up to 178 if ice-sheet melt accelerates, with more than 131 flood days extremely likely by 2100.

Sea-Level Outlook Through 2100

The report concludes that New Jersey is likely to see 2.2 to 3.8 feet of sea-level rise by 2100 if global carbon emissions continue at current levels. Sea level could reach 4.5 feet if ice-sheet melt in Greenland and Antarctica accelerates. The document states that it does not make recommendations for policymakers, explaining that decisions depend on the level of risk accepted by decision makers and affected communities. It advises policymakers to review projections at least every five years.

Atlantic City as the Reference Site

Atlantic City serves as the primary location for the report’s sea-level analysis. According to Robert Kopp, the Rutgers scientist who led the research and is also part of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, today’s emissions pathway is consistent with an “intermediate” scenario. Under that scenario, Atlantic City would see 2.2 to 3.8 feet of sea-level rise by 2100 without including ice-sheet loss. With ice-sheet loss factored in, the projection becomes 4.5 feet. Kopp explained that this intermediate scenario aligns with roughly 2.7°C of global warming by century’s end.

The previous edition of the advisory panel’s work, released in 2019, estimated 2 feet of sea-level rise under an intermediate scenario. The new figure is 0.2 feet higher. This updated version incorporates new emissions pathways, revised rise rates, location-specific flood-frequency projections, and summaries of expected coastal impacts.

Comments on Methodology and Uncertainty

In response to the publication, Ben Strauss, chief executive of Climate Central, a Princeton-based nonprofit, described the projections as rigorous and said the authors represent leading researchers in sea-level science. Strauss added that because the current climate and its rate of change lack historical precedent, climate science involves uncertainty, and unexpected developments remain possible.

Observed Conditions at Atlantic City

Measurements at Atlantic City show water levels rising about 1.5 feet from 1912 to 2021, averaging 1.7 inches per decade, which the report explains is approximately three times the global rate because the land surface in New Jersey is subsiding. During the 15-year span leading into 2020, tide gauges recorded roughly 4 inches of rise.

Forecasts under the intermediate-emissions pathway indicate:

2.9 to 4.7 inches per decade from 2040 to 2060
Up to 5.6 inches per decade from 2080 to 2100

Flood Frequency Trends and Future Ranges

Flooding in Atlantic City has increased as sea levels climb. The city saw fewer than one flood day each year in the 1950s, compared with an average of 12 flood days annually between 2007 and 2024, and 23 days in 2024, which is the highest recorded. Estimates for 2050 range from 29 to 148 flood days per year, with a potential increase to 178 days if ice-sheet melt accelerates. By 2100, the report describes coastal flood days as “extremely likely” to surpass 131 annually.

The assessment also describes a growing frequency of “compound” flood events caused when elevated sea levels combine with storm surge, heavy precipitation, and swollen rivers.

Erosion, Wetland Capacity, and Water Supply Concerns

According to the report, continued sea-level rise will intensify erosion along the coast and may exceed the capacity of existing erosion-control efforts. It also states that many wetlands may be nearing the limit of their ability to gain sediment fast enough to keep up with future sea-level rise. Even in a low-emissions scenario, projected increases may outpace the adaptive capacity of numerous coastal wetlands.

Saltwater intrusion into groundwater and surface water supplies is expected to increase, especially in barrier island communities that rely on aquifers.

Cultural, Historical, and Economic Importance of the Jersey Shore

The Jersey Shore spans about 125 miles of Atlantic coastline and contains more than 300 square miles of tidal marshland. These coastal areas lie within the ancestral homeland of the Lenni-Lenape people, whose presence in the region extends back to 10,000 BCE, before European colonization brought disease and displacement.

The modern coastal zone supports nearly 7 million year-round residents. In 2022, businesses in Monmouth, Ocean, Atlantic, and Cape May counties received more than 50 million visitors. The region includes Atlantic City boardwalks, Island Beach State Park, the Sandy Hook Unit of the Gateway National Recreational Area, and the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Coastal ecosystems across these areas include tidal wetlands, dunes, barrier islands, and coastal forests that support fish, shellfish, migratory birds, horseshoe crabs, and other species.

Recent Flooding and Storm Impacts

Sea-level rise has already contributed to recurring high-tide, or “sunny day,” flooding along the Jersey Shore. The region has experienced approximately 1.4 feet of sea-level rise over the past century, a rate amplified by land subsidence. Atlantic City saw 13 high-tide flooding days in 2021.

By mid-century, projections show 11 inches to 2 feet of additional rise along the New Jersey coast and 45 to 225 days of high-tide flooding per year. Under a moderate emissions scenario toward the end of the century, Atlantic City is projected to face at least 95 high-tide flooding days annually.

In October 2012, Hurricane Sandy produced 9 to 15 feet of flooding that caused widespread destruction to homes, businesses, transportation networks, and critical infrastructure, along with dozens of deaths. Tropical cyclones like Sandy are expected to become more intense, with stronger storm surge, heavier rainfall, and increased flooding hazards.

In July, the administration of Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy reversed new regulations intended to restrict development in high-risk coastal zones after developer opposition.

Current Adaptation Planning

New Jersey’s Climate Resilience Strategy, developed by the state’s Department of Environmental Protection, includes a Coastal Resilience Plan describing efforts to conserve and restore tidal marshes, manage beaches and dunes, revise coastal regulations to reflect projected sea-level rise, and address flood risk for existing buildings and infrastructure. The plan also discusses both managed and unplanned movement away from coastal zones and supports community-based resilience planning in every coastal municipality.

The state promotes living shorelines, which use natural materials such as sand, vegetation, and rock to stabilize coastlines while supporting ecological processes. At Gandys Beach, structures built to support oysters function as part of these projects and help reduce flooding and storm impacts.

Alongside these efforts, New Jersey runs programs that provide information on climate risks, expand training, and support science-based decision-making. Residents and visitors can contribute through activities such as planting dune grasses and participating in local planning.

Surati’s First Diwali Gala 2025 Lights Up Jersey City with Culture and Community

Moses Lookman

November 25, 2025

On November 7, 2025, Surati for Performing Arts held its formal Diwali Gala at Barrow Mansion in Jersey City, New Jersey. Although the organization has organized many Diwali celebrations over the years, this was its first official gala event. It brought together Indian cultural traditions, live performances, and community engagement in one evening. The gala also celebrated Surati’s 23 years of work in the performing arts, arts education, and cultural outreach.

Key Takeaways

Surati for Performing Arts held its first formal Diwali Gala on November 7, 2025, at Barrow Mansion in Jersey City, celebrating 23 years of cultural and community work.
The event featured Indian classical, folk, and fusion dance performances, live music, and excerpts from Surati’s original production Ramaavan – A Musical.
Local leaders and cultural representatives attended the gala, which also included a reception, silent auction, and DJ-led celebration supported by multiple sponsors.

Reception and Opening Segment

The evening began with a VIP cocktail hour. Guests were welcomed with hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and live jazz music performed by a pianist. The venue featured vendor booths and a silent auction offering cultural items and experiences contributed by the community. A video presentation recapped Surati’s 23-year history, showcasing its work in education, outreach, and performance.

Several guests from the public and cultural sectors attended. Councilwoman Mira Prinz-Arey and former Governor Jim McGreevey acknowledged Surati’s continued efforts to connect communities through the arts. A representative from the Indian Consulate praised the group’s dedication over two decades.

Dance and Music Performances

The performances for the evening were curated by Surati’s Founder and Executive Artistic Director, Rimli Roy. Dance segments featured classical Indian forms such as Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, along with folk and modern styles including Rajasthani Ghoomar, Bollywood, belly dance, and fusion. Dancers from Surati’s company performed across these forms.

A duet featuring Abhinav Acharya on tabla and Kaleb Hassell on cajón introduced the musical portion of the evening, which was followed by a piano performance by Sumit Roy, a composer from Kolkata, who played an Indian raga while Acharya played tabla.

Ramaavan – A Musical on Stage

The second part of the program featured scenes from Ramaavan – A Musical, Surati’s original production based on the Ramayana. This work was created by Surati’s founder and had previously toured India in 2024 under an invitation from an Indian government cultural agency. The production, recognized by a national arts grant, was performed by a group of actors and dancers.

The music for Ramaavan was written by two composers, with lyrics and verses contributed by a lyricist closely connected to the company. The performance received a standing ovation. The director shared that having her parents, both involved in the production, present during the performance made the moment especially meaningful.

Musical Finale and Community Support

The final portion of the evening included a live music set performed by a guitarist, followed by a medley of Calypso, retro, and Indian folk music. The segment brought guests to the dance floor. A DJ concluded the event with a high-energy set that included artists, audience members, and invited officials.

The event was supported by sponsors, including the Albrich Academy of Excellence (AAE), whose representative, Dorota Mani, also led the silent auction. Additional support came from cultural and tourism offices and development partners.

Surati for Performing Arts is a nonprofit based in Jersey City. The organization promotes Indian arts through performances, education, and outreach. Its work has been presented at major venues such as the United Nations and Lincoln Center, and has received coverage from national media outlets. Surati’s ongoing programs are supported by local cultural trusts and regional arts funds.

Mets DFA Frankie Montas, Set to Pay $17M Remaining on Two-Year Deal

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 24, 2025

The New York Mets designated right-hander Frankie Montas for assignment on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, ending a nine-appearance stint with the club. The move was procedural, as Montas underwent Tommy John surgery at the end of the regular season and will miss all of 2026. He exercised his $17 million player option on the final season of his two-year, $34 million contract, and the Mets remain responsible for the full amount. With his departure, he will no longer rehab at Citi Field or at the team’s Spring Training complex.

The decision coincided with the deadline to protect eligible minor-league players from the Rule 5 draft, prompting the club to open a 40-man roster spot. In a corresponding move that same Tuesday, the Mets selected outfielder Nick Morabito, the organization’s No. 16 prospect, to the roster.

Key Takeaways

The Mets designated Frankie Montas for assignment, leaving the team responsible for the final $17 million on his contract.
Montas had Tommy John surgery on Sept. 9 and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season.
The transaction allowed the Mets to add Nick Morabito to the 40-man roster before the Dec. 10 Rule 5 draft.

Montas’ Delayed Debut, Limited Availability, and Final Season Numbers

Montas’ year with the Mets began with a lat strain in spring training, which delayed his debut until June 24. He went on to make nine appearances, including seven starts and two relief outings, posting a 6.28 ERA and a 1.603 WHIP. His last appearance came on Aug. 15, after an elbow issue cut his season short and ultimately led to surgery.

Before joining the Mets, Montas pitched for the Chicago White Sox (2015), Oakland (2017–22), the New York Yankees (2022–23), Cincinnati (2024), Milwaukee (2024), and the Mets, compiling a 47–48 career record with a 4.20 ERA across 10 major-league seasons.

Betting Market Reaction to Montas’ Exit and Mets Outlook

Sportsbooks and betting reports list several odds connected to the Mets. FanDuel lists the Mets at +1100 to win the 2026 World Series, alongside their 83–79 record and the fact that they missed the playoffs. Additional listings show the Mets with odds of +1100, +1400, and +1500 across various books for the World Series, placing them behind top teams. DraftKings also lists the Mets in the +1400 to +1500 range.

Covers listed the Mets at the end of the 2025 season at +20000 to win the World Series, +10000 to win the National League, and +5500 to win the NL East. An ESPN Bet note reported that the Mets were 2–13 in their last 15 games, and their World Series odds shifted from +800 on June 12 to +1500 by Aug. 15.

BetMGM previously reported that New York’s National League pennant odds moved from +700 to +400 after an offseason move. FanDuel’s opening 2025 odds listed the Mets at +700, and a midseason odds update listed them at +1400. Additional outlets listed the Mets at +1200, +1400, and +1500 among other teams. These odds reflected their performance before and after the 2025 season and show them placed behind the Dodgers, Yankees, Phillies, and other top clubs in various listings.

Morabito Added to Protect Against Rule 5 Draft Selection

By removing Montas from the roster, the Mets selected the contract of Nick Morabito, a 22-year-old outfielder who was a second-round pick in 2022. Morabito spent the entire 2025 season with Double-A Binghamton, where he hit .273 with six home runs, 59 RBIs, and 49 stolen bases in 60 attempts, contributing to 108 steals over the past two seasons.

He also excelled in the Arizona Fall League, posting a .362/.450/.464 slash line with 16 stolen bases in 17 games. Morabito is ranked as the No. 13 prospect in the Mets’ system in earlier scouting references and appears on the 40-man roster as part of the team’s preparation for the Dec. 10 Rule 5 draft.

NBA 2025 Salaries: Ranking the Top 20 Highest Paid Basketball Players

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 24, 2025

The 2025-26 season isn’t just about highlights—it’s about money too. Fans still ask who is the highest-paid NBA player? And how much do NBA players make at the top level? This year’s list of highest paid NBA players delivers record numbers.

While the highest-paid NBA player 2023 conversation had its stars, today’s deals push even higher, fueled by the biggest NBA contract era.

From Stephen Curry’s league-leading pay to other stars’ huge deals, here’s a look at the NBA’s top earners.

Key Takeaways

Stephen Curry continues to top the NBA salary charts with $55.7 million.
Joel Embiid, Kevin Durant, and Nikola Jokic follow closely, earning $51.4 million.
The list features a mix of seasoned veterans like LeBron James and rising stars like Luka Doncic, reflecting the league’s diverse talent and earning power.

Overview of NBA’s Highest-Paid Players for 2025

The top-paid NBA players of the 2025 season highlight the league’s shifting financial dynamics, showcasing a mix of seasoned legends and emerging stars redefining the game.

These record-breaking NBA salaries for 2025 reflect more than just elite stats—they underscore each player’s marketability, global reach, and endorsement power.

Here’s an in-depth look at the contracts, careers, and star power behind the NBA’s highest earners this season:

1. Stephen Curry – Highest Paid NBA Player with $55.7 million

Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry leads the NBA salary charts, earning $55.7 million this season.

Curry’s consistent performance and his role in revolutionizing the game with his three-point shooting have cemented his status as one of the league’s top earners, making him the highest paid basketball player.

Known as the “Baby-Faced Assassin,” the influence of this highest-paid NBA player extends beyond the court with significant endorsement deals and a strong presence in media and business ventures.

His leadership has been instrumental in the Warriors’ multiple championships, and this highest NBA salary reflects his value both on and off the court.

2. Joel Embiid – $51.4 million

Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid is another prominent figure in the NBA, earning $51.4 million – he is the number two highest paid NBA player.

As the 2023 NBA MVP, Embiid’s dominant presence in the paint and scoring ability make him one of the league’s top talents.

Embiid’s charismatic personality and strong social media presence have also contributed to his high marketability.

His salary reflects his contributions to the 76ers and his potential to lead them deep into the playoffs.

3. Nikola Jokic – $51.4 million

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, a two-time MVP, ties Kevin Durant for the league’s second-highest salary.

His versatility and leadership have been crucial to Denver’s success, as evidenced by his biggest NBA contract ever, highlighting his immense value.

Widely regarded as the best passing big man in NBA history, Jokic’s ability to score, rebound, and facilitate has redefined the center position, cementing his status as one of the game’s most indispensable players.

4. Kevin Durant – $51.1 million

Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns is one of the highest-paid NBA players at $51.1 million.

Durant’s move to the Suns has positioned him as a key player in their quest for a championship, reflecting his immense value on and off the court.

Durant is known for his scoring ability and versatility, which have made him one of the most formidable players in the league.

His salary is a testament to his impact on the game and his marketability, which includes numerous endorsement deals and investments.

5. Bradley Beal – $50.2 million

Bradley Beal, now with the Phoenix Suns, earns $50.2 million. Beal’s scoring prowess has been well-recognized throughout his career, and his 2023 move to the Suns marked a fresh start with significant expectations.

Known for his ability to score from anywhere on the court, Beal’s presence is expected to be a game-changer for the Suns’ title aspirations – we could even expect some amazing dunks.

His contract reflects his value as one of the premier shooting guards in the league, capable of consistently delivering high offensive output.

6. Kawhi Leonard – $49.2 million

Los Angeles Clippers’ forward Kawhi Leonard is among the NBA’s top earners, with a base salary of $49,205,800 for the 2024-25 season.

Leonard’s ability to impact games on both ends of the floor, from shutting down top scorers to delivering critical baskets, makes him invaluable.

Despite injury concerns, Leonard remains one of the league’s most effective and respected players.

His salary reflects his ability to change the course of games, especially during the playoffs.

7. Devin Booker – $49.2 million

Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns commands a $49.2 million salary, underscoring his status as one of the NBA’s elite scorers, clutch performers, and richest NBA players. Central to Phoenix’s resurgence, Booker’s ability to dominate late in games has made him invaluable to the franchise.

Recognized as one of the league’s most dynamic young stars and highest paid NBA players, he continues to elevate his legacy each season. Off the court, Booker has also cemented himself as a cultural figure, with major endorsements and business ventures amplifying his influence far beyond basketball. His paycheck reflects both his impact on the game and his growing global brand.

8. Paul George – $49.2 million

Paul George, now playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, earns $49.2 million. George’s two-way skills, combining excellent defense with significant scoring ability, make him a cornerstone of the 76ers’ title aspirations.

His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions while also being a primary scoring option.

George’s leadership and performance in clutch situations underscore his importance to the team, justifying his substantial salary.

9. Karl-Anthony Towns – $49.2 million

Karl-Anthony Towns of the New York Knicks ranks among the NBA’s highest-paid stars with a $49.2 million salary.

Known for his rare blend of perimeter shooting and interior dominance, Towns became a cornerstone for New York after his October 2024 trade from the Minnesota Timberwolves.

This season, he’s averaging 25.3 points, 14.0 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, showcasing his offensive versatility and leadership. Beyond basketball, Towns is lauded for his philanthropy and advocacy on social issues, strengthening both his franchise value and community impact.

10. Jaylen Brown – $49.2 million

Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics also takes home $49.2 million, a salary that underlines his evolution into one of the NBA’s elite wing players.

Known for his scoring, defense, and leadership, Brown has become an indispensable part of Boston’s core and was a huge part of their title success.

Brown is also a respected figure off the court, using his platform to address social justice issues and promote education, furthering his impact beyond basketball.

11. Jimmy Butler – $48.7 million

Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler earns $48.7 million. Butler’s reputation for elevating his game in the playoffs and his leadership qualities are key to the Heat’s success.

Known as “Playoff Jimmy,” his ability to perform under pressure has been critical in the Heat’s deep playoff runs.

Butler’s all-around game includes scoring, defense, and playmaking, making him one of the league’s most versatile and valuable players.

His salary reflects his status as a top-tier player and a leader on and off the court.

12. Giannis Antetokounmpo – $48.7 million

Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo, a former MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, remains a top earner at $48.7 million.

Giannis’s all-around game, which encompasses scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defense, makes him indispensable to the Bucks.

His leadership and relentless work ethic have been crucial to Milwaukee’s success, including their 2021 NBA Championship.

Antetokounmpo’s salary is a testament to his significant contributions and his standing as one of the best players in the league.

13. LeBron James – $48.7 million

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers also earns $48.7 million. His continued excellence and leadership at an advanced career stage underscore his enduring value to the Lakers and the NBA.

LeBron is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and his influence extends well beyond the court.

James remains a global icon with numerous business ventures, including entertainment and philanthropy.

His salary reflects his contributions to the sport and his status as a cultural figure.

14. Damian Lillard – $48.7 million

Damian Lillard, who joined the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023, also earns $48.7 million. Lillard’s is expected to significantly bolster the Bucks’ championship hopes this season, providing them with a dynamic scorer and leader.

Known for his deep shooting range and clutch performances, Lillard’s addition to the Bucks aims to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo’s inside game, creating a formidable duo.

His salary highlights his status as one of the elite guards in the NBA.

15. Rudy Gobert – $43.8 million

Minnesota Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert, known for his defensive dominance, earns $43.8 million. His presence in the paint is crucial for the Timberwolves’ defensive strategies.

Gobert, a multiple-time Defensive Player of the Year, is known for his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities, which anchor the Timberwolves’ defense.

His impact on the game is not always reflected in traditional statistics, but his ability to alter opponents’ shots and protect the rim is invaluable.

Gobert’s salary reflects his elite status as one of the best defensive players in the league.

16. Anthony Davis – $43.2 million

Los Angeles Lakers’ Anthony Davis earns $43.2 million. Davis’ impact on both ends of the court and his health will be pivotal for the Lakers’ season.

Known for his defensive versatility and scoring ability, Davis is a crucial player for the Lakers.

His ability to dominate the paint, protect the rim, and score from inside and outside makes him one of the league’s most complete players.

However, his health has been a concern, and the Lakers’ success often hinges on Davis staying injury-free.

His salary reflects his immense talent and potential to lead the Lakers to another championship.

17. Luka Doncic – $43.0 million

Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Doncic, one of the brightest young stars in the NBA, earns $43.0 million. Doncic’s playmaking and scoring abilities make him a franchise cornerstone.

His ability to control the game with his vision, passing, and scoring has made him one of the most exciting players to watch.

He has already achieved numerous accolades at a young age, including multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors.

Doncic’s salary reflects his potential to be one of the all-time greats in the league.

18. Zach LaVine – $43.0 million

Chicago Bulls’ Zach LaVine, a prolific scorer and key player for the Bulls, earns $43.0 million.

LaVine’s athleticism and scoring ability make him one of the premier shooting guards in the league.

He has improved his game significantly over the years, becoming an All-Star and a central figure in the Bulls’ offense.

LaVine’s salary reflects his role as a leader and his potential to take the Bulls deep into the playoffs.

19. Trae Young – $43.0 million

Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young, known for his scoring and playmaking, also earns $43.0 million. Young’s growth and leadership are critical for the Hawks’ success.

His ability to hit deep three-pointers and create plays for his teammates makes him a dynamic offensive threat.

Young has quickly become the face of the franchise and a fan favorite, leading the Hawks to significant playoff success in recent years. His salary underscores his importance to the team’s future.

20. Fred VanVleet – $42.8 million

Fred VanVleet, now with the Houston Rockets, earns $42.8 million. His leadership and scoring ability are expected to lead the Rockets’ rebuild.

VanVleet, who played a key role in the Toronto Raptors’ 2019 championship, brings his championship experience and veteran presence to a young Rockets team.

His ability to score, distribute the ball, and play tough defense makes him a valuable addition to the Rockets.

VanVleet’s salary reflects his importance to the team’s rebuilding efforts and his status as a top guard in the league.

Who Leads the NBA Salary Rankings for 2025-26?

Stephen Curry is once again the highest-paid NBA player this season, leading the league’s highest paid NBA players with a jaw-dropping $55.7 million NBA player salary. The deal underscores not only his on-court dominance but also the global brand power and leadership that make him a perennial answer to “who is the highest paid NBA player?”

These blockbuster paydays—some nearing the biggest NBA contract territory—show how modern superstars drive both winning and worldwide fan growth.

As basketball’s reach expands, the highest NBA salary figures reveal just how much elite talent, marketability, and star power are worth in shaping the league’s financial future.

Brennan and Ajmani Endorse Emily Jabbour in Hoboken’s Mayoral Runoff

Moses Lookman

November 21, 2025

Assemblywoman-elect Katie Brennan and former assistant state treasurer Dini Ajmani have endorsed Hoboken Councilwoman Emily Jabbour in the city’s December 2 mayoral runoff. Their support arrives as Jabbour faces Councilman Michael Russo in the final stage of the mayoral race.

Key Takeaways

Katie Brennan endorsed Emily Jabbour for Hoboken mayor, pointing to her leadership, executive experience, and focus on affordability and transparency.
Dini Ajmani, who earned about 13% of the vote in the first round, also endorsed Jabbour despite policy differences.
Jabbour has over fifteen years of federal service, extensive community work in Hoboken, and serves on several City Council committees, including chairing Parking and Transportation.

Brennan’s Endorsement Strengthens Jabbour’s Position

Assemblywoman-elect Katie Brennan announced her support for Emily Jabbour on Monday, November 17. Brennan will represent the 32nd legislative district, which includes Hoboken and parts of Jersey City, beginning next year. She will serve alongside outgoing Hoboken Mayor and Assemblyman-elect Ravi Bhalla.

Brennan expressed confidence in Jabbour’s leadership and executive experience. She also described the December 2 election as presenting a clear choice for voters, linking her endorsement to priorities such as affordability, transparency, and leadership. Her backing follows her win in a crowded primary that included opponents supported by Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and the Hudson County Democratic Organization.

Jabbour responded by expressing appreciation for Brennan’s support and connecting their shared belief in putting residents first, maintaining integrity in government, and working to keep the city affordable and thriving. The endorsement creates alignment between incoming state leadership and local leadership as the runoff approaches.

Ajmani’s Support Adds Voter Influence

Former assistant state treasurer Dini Ajmani, who finished fifth in the first round of the Hoboken mayoral election with about 13% of the vote, also endorsed Jabbour. Ajmani acknowledged that she and Jabbour differ on some policy positions but described Jabbour as hardworking and committed to serving Hoboken residents. She expressed hope that Jabbour assembles a strong team at City Hall.

Ajmani’s support brings in a segment of voters who backed her in the first round, adding another influence to Jabbour’s growing coalition.

Jabbour’s Professional Background and Local Work

Emily Jabbour was first elected to the Hoboken City Council in November 2017 and won re-election on November 2, 2021. She was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and raised in Wellesley, a Boston suburb. She has worked for more than fifteen years as a civil servant at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, serving within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF).

Her federal path began through the Presidential Management Fellows program, which included a six-month detail assignment with the United States House of Representatives as a Health Fellow for the Committee on Energy and Commerce, Health Subcommittee.

Jabbour moved to Hoboken in the fall of 2008 and has since taken part in multiple community organizations. She has served as a mentor with True Mentors, acted as liaison to the HOPES Program for the Brandt Parent Consortium, and founded the Hudson County Chapter of Moms Demand Action, an advocacy group focused on preventing gun violence. Her work with the group led the Hoboken Police Department to distribute free gun locks with all firearm permits and provide safety materials encouraging proper firearm storage. She has been trained in the Be Smart curriculum, which promotes secure firearm storage to reduce suicides and accidental shootings involving children.

Jabbour also supports the Hoboken Public Education Foundation and has remained active in local education-centered efforts.

Her academic background includes a B.A. in Psychology from Boston College (2003) and a Master of Science in Social Work with a policy focus and Law Minor from Columbia University (2006).

Two Hoboken Charter School Educators Earn 2025 State Exemplary Recognition

Moses Lookman

November 21, 2025

The New Jersey Department of Education selected two Hoboken Charter School (HCS) teachers as 2025 Exemplary Secondary Educators, a distinction given to just 120 teachers in the state. The recipients are Christopher Kunkel, who teaches K–12 STEM, and Matthew Persico, who teaches humanities in grades 7 and 8.

Key Takeaways

Only 120 teachers in New Jersey were named 2025 Exemplary Secondary Educators, and Hoboken Charter School had two: Christopher Kunkel and Matthew Persico.
Kunkel earned the distinction for leading award-winning STEM teams and receiving major honors, including Mentor of the Year (twice), the Golden Egg Award, and Innovator of the Year.
Persico was recognized for his humanities program, Social Justice Book Clubs, strong NJSLA results, and awards such as the 2024 We Need Diverse Books Grant and the 2022 Book Love Foundation Grant.

Christopher Kunkel: Recognition for STEM Work

Christopher Kunkel has taught mathematics and STEM at HCS since 2008. He uses hands-on, learner-centered methods that connect science, technology, engineering, and math to real-life situations. His students have earned top results in the FIRST Tech Challenge, FIRST Lego League, Future City, and the Technology Student Association (TSA).

His teams have won awards such as the Champions Award, Design Award, and Control Award, and have gained national recognition in engineering design and sustainable infrastructure. His middle school TSA teams have finished in the top 10 nationally and earned first place in New Jersey in Video Game Design, Website Design, and Data Science.

Kunkel’s personal awards include the Outstanding Volunteer Award, two Mentor of the Year honors from FIRST Robotics, the Golden Egg Award from the NJ FIRST Tech Challenge, and the Innovator of the Year Award from the New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association. He has also been recognized in the Hudson Reporter for his work in robotics and engineering.

He has spoken at events such as the World Maker Faire’s “Girls in STEM” panel and has led community workshops on coding and robotics. His teaching also includes social justice topics, such as period poverty through statistics and clean water equity through environmental science.

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Matthew Persico: Recognition for Humanities Work

Matthew Persico has taught humanities at HCS since 2011. He leads a program that focuses on critical reading, writing, and reflection. His teaching connects academic skills with empathy, inclusivity, and civic understanding.

Persico is known for his Social Justice Book Clubs, where students read novels and texts about race, class, identity, and social issues. He also led a disability awareness project tied to Of Mice and Men, working with the Coordinator of Special Education and his 7th graders to help create a sensory room for the school.

His students show strong performance on the NJSLA, regularly scoring above state averages in writing and critical thinking. He also serves as a mentor teacher, Student Government Association advisor, and drama club director. He helps guide programs like No One Eats Alone Day, Pink Shirt Day, and Week of Respect.

Persico has received the We Need Diverse Books Classroom Library Grant (2024), the Book Love Foundation Grant (2022), the Association of American Educators National Teacher Scholarship (2019), and the Kidsbridge Character Education Leadership Award (2017). He has presented nationally at the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and at The College of New Jersey.

Yankees Sign 26-Year-Old Yovanny Cruz After Red Sox Double-A Season

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 20, 2025

The New York Yankees opened their offseason by signing 26-year-old right-hander Yovanny Cruz, who spent 2025 with the Boston Red Sox’s Double-A affiliate in Portland. Cruz elected free agency on Nov. 6, signed with New York on Nov. 8, and was listed as assigned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The move comes after another season in which the Yankees reached the postseason but fell short of expectations.

Key Takeaways

The Yankees signed 26-year-old right-hander Yovanny Cruz, a former Red Sox pitcher who posted a strong 2024 season in Double-A but struggled with walks in 2025.
Cruz has nine years of minor-league experience, a triple-digit fastball, 288 career strikeouts, and a track record of bouncing back from injuries and lost seasons.
New York views him as a low-risk depth move, hoping his raw tools can translate into a real bullpen contribution if he improves his control.

Cruz’s Early Career and Organizational Journey

Yovanny Cruz’s professional career began in 2016, when he signed with the Chicago Cubs as a 17-year-old out of the Dominican Republic. His early progress was interrupted by two major setbacks: the canceled 2020 season and a season-ending injury in 2021.

Before signing with the Yankees, Cruz had appeared in 116 minor-league games, producing a 13–13 record, a 3.49 ERA, 30 starts, seven saves, and 288 strikeouts. After leaving the Cubs’ system in 2023, he pitched for the Estrellas Orientales in the Dominican Winter League, then signed with the San Diego Padres and spent 2024 with the San Antonio Missions. He later joined the Red Sox minor-league system and pitched for Double-A Portland.

Cruz’s Performance and Scouting Profile

At Double-A Portland, Cruz made 34 appearances, recorded six saves, and produced a 2–4 record, a 3.03 ERA, and 72 strikeouts in nearly 60 innings. He posted a career-high 10.92 K/9 and allowed 5.16 hits per nine innings, while issuing 44 walks, resulting in a 6.67 BB/9, the highest walk rate of his career.

His pitch arsenal includes a fastball that can reach triple-digit velocity, a high-80s slider, a sweeping curveball, and a low-90s changeup. He retains rookie eligibility and all minor-league options and may continue electing free agency at the end of each season until reaching the major leagues and signing a guaranteed contract.

Cruz even added more to his case by pitching well this winter for Gigantes del Cibao, allowing only one run in his first four outings over 4⅔ innings.

Sportsbook Outlook on the Yankees This Offseason

Cruz’s signing coincides with increased attention on the Yankees within the sports-betting market following their 2025 season. New York advanced past the Boston Red Sox in the wild-card round but was eliminated in four games in the ALDS by the Toronto Blue Jays. With expectations unchanged for 2026, sportsbooks have posted early futures that keep the Yankees near the top of the league.

Across platforms including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, PointsBet, and ESPN BET, the Yankees consistently rank as the second favorite to win the 2026 World Series, behind the Los Angeles Dodgers. Early futures opened with the Yankees between +700 and +750, depending on the book. DraftKings listed the Dodgers at +370 and the Yankees at +750; FanDuel opened Los Angeles at +350 and New York at +700; BetMGM matched the +350 price on the Dodgers and set the Yankees at +750. ESPN BET’s board placed the Yankees at +800, still directly behind Los Angeles.

Odds comparison sites such as OddsChecker, Oddshark, and Oddspedia show similar numbers, generally keeping New York between +750 and +850. These boards position the Yankees as the leading contender in the American League.

Individual futures reflect the same trend. After winning the 2025 American League MVP—with a season that included a .331 average, 53 home runs, and a league-leading 1.144 OPS—Aaron Judge has opened as the favorite for the 2026 AL MVP, typically around +300. During the 2025 season, Judge’s MVP odds moved from early-season plus money into heavy favorite territory as he advanced toward the award.

OG Anunoby Injury Forces Two-Week Absence as Knicks Lose Another Starter

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 20, 2025

The week had already been difficult for the New York Knicks when Jalen Brunson went down with a right ankle sprain against Orlando. But the situation became even worse during the NBA Cup matchup with the Miami Heat. With 6:52 left in the first quarter, OG Anunoby missed a layup, grabbed his left hamstring, and walked off the floor. Even though New York still pulled out a 140-132 win, all eyes were on Anunoby’s condition after the game.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Anunoby “will be re-evaluated in two weeks” and will not travel with the Knicks on their upcoming five-game road trip. While a two-week check-in is planned, it does not guarantee a return at that time.

Before the injury, Anunoby had started all 12 games for the 8–4 Knicks, averaging 15.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.9 steals, 0.7 blocks, and shooting 47.6% from the field and 39.2% from three.

Key Takeaways

OG Anunoby suffered a left hamstring strain during the Knicks’ NBA Cup matchup with Miami and will be re-evaluated in two weeks.
The injury comes days after Jalen Brunson sprained his right ankle, leaving New York without both starters at the same time.
Josh Hart, Miles McBride, Landry Shamet, and Jordan Clarkson are expected to take on larger roles as the Knicks begin a five-game road trip.

Knicks Restructure Their Lineup as Brunson and Anunoby Recover

With both starters sidelined, the Knicks must adjust immediately. Head coach Mike Brown has turned to Miles McBride to replace Brunson. McBride started against Miami and finished with 9 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds. His production is not on Brunson’s level, but he gives New York stability at point guard while Brunson is evaluated daily.

OG Anunoby’s vacancy shifts attention to Josh Hart, who produced a 12-point, 12-rebound, 10-assist triple-double in 34 minutes during the same game. Hart has averaged 8.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists this season, making him the most direct fit in the starting lineup.

The injuries also increase opportunities for Landry Shamet, Jordan Clarkson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Shamet scored a career-high 36 points off the bench in the Heat game, while Clarkson and Yabusele are expected to absorb additional minutes as the rotation reshapes.

Sportsbooks Adjust Game Lines and Futures

The betting market responded quickly once Anunoby and Brunson were ruled out. Across major sportsbooks, the Knicks entered their rematch in Miami as slight underdogs. DraftKings listed New York at +1.5 with a +105 moneyline, while the Heat closed at –1.5 and –125. Covers and other odds boards reflected similar numbers, reinforcing that the market viewed the matchup as competitive but tilted toward Miami because of New York’s unavailable starters.

Totals climbed to 244.5 points, influenced in part by the absence of Anunoby, who averaged 1.9 steals and helped anchor New York’s defensive efficiency.

The injuries also affected long-term markets. According to updated futures boards, the Knicks are priced between +900 and +1300 to win the 2025–26 NBA Finals. Earlier preseason odds placed them at 10–1 for the championship and +325 to win the Eastern Conference. While the Knicks are still viewed as one of the stronger teams in the East, the odds reflect the hit of losing two starters and the uncertainty around when they’ll return.

The Eastern Conference Picture Tightens Around New York

The Knicks arrived in the 2025–26 season with expectations of being one of the stronger teams in the East, especially after acquiring Anunoby during the 2023–24 campaign in a trade involving RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and a second-round pick. They followed that move with a five-year, $212.5 million extension for Anunoby.

New York and Cleveland entered the season projected to control the Eastern Conference, but the early standings tell another story. The Detroit Pistons surged to an 11–2 start, powered by a nine-game run with Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren at the center of it. Despite the rise, New York sits second at 8–4, followed by Cleveland at 9–5.

Given those standings, losing Anunoby for at least two weeks and managing Brunson’s injury make this stretch critical. Both players influence New York’s two-way balance, and their absence comes as the Knicks begin a five-game road trip featuring matchups against Miami, Dallas, Orlando, Brooklyn, and Charlotte.

Greatest Pool Player of All Time: Ranking the 19 Most Famous Pool Players Ever

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 19, 2025

Pool has a long history filled with players who changed the game. Over many decades, certain players stood out by winning world championships, setting new records, creating new playing styles, or becoming well-known figures far beyond local pool halls.

The majority started at a young age, though a few who entered the game later, and several helped open the sport to more people.

Here’s a rundown of the game’s best, covering their achievements, influence, and place in the sport.

Key Takeaways

Efren “Bata” Reyes ranks as the greatest pool player of all time, with over 100 professional wins, more than 80 international titles, and world championships in multiple disciplines.
Ralph Greenleaf, Willie Mosconi, and other early champions set records that still stand today, including Greenleaf’s 20 World Pocket Billiards titles and Mosconi’s 526-ball straight-pool run.
Modern players such as Shane Van Boening, Allison Fisher, and Dave Pearson expanded the sport through major titles, world records, and global recognition across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

19. Mike Massey

Mike Massey, aka “Tennessee Tarzan,” was born on April 9, 1947, in Loudon, Tennessee. He became known for his work in straight pool and nine-ball, as well as his widely recognized trick-shot skills. Massey was inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 2005.

His strongest competitive year listed is 1996, when he won the Hall of Fame April Championship, the Dutch April Championship, and competed as part of the USA Mosconi Cup team, which won that year. Massey’s reputation also comes from his large following of fans who admire both his shot-making and showmanship.

18. Cisero Murphy

Cisero Murphy was born in 1935 in Brooklyn, New York, into a large family. He began playing professionally at 15. He won the New York City Pool Championship, followed by the Eastern States Championship in the 1960s.

Murphy faced racial barriers at many major tournaments. The NAACP protested these restrictions and picketed events where he was barred. The protests were successful, and that allowed Murphy to gain entry into the 1965 World 14.1 Tournament in Burbank, California. He won the event, becoming the first African American to win a U.S. national billiard title or world national billiard title, and the first person ever to win a world championship at their first event. His win led to the removal of race-based barriers in national tournaments.

17. Irving Crane

Irving Crane, known as “The Deacon,” was born in 1913 and died in 2011. He specialized in straight pool and built a career on careful, measured play. Crane won six World Straight Pool Championship titles, which established his standing in classic pocket billiards.

He entered the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 1978, recognizing his long and disciplined career across several decades.

16. Harold Worst

Harold Worst played many cue sports, including straight pool, one-pocket, snooker, nine-ball, and three-cushion. His career accelerated early: at age 25, he became the World Three-Cushion Champion, and he held the title for the rest of his life.

Worst did not focus seriously on pocket billiards until his 30s, but he still won two American All-Round Pocket Billiards Tournaments, an English Snooker Tournament, and another World Three-Cushion Championship before passing away in 1965.

Worst also opened pool rooms in the early 1960s and introduced cues made by local furniture makers. These cues had colored handles that indicated the cue’s weight, and they remain collectible items.

15. Nick Varner

Nick Varner was born on May 15, 1948, in Owensboro, Kentucky. He won two ACU Collegiate Championships and later built a multifaceted career as a professional player, pool-room owner, exhibition player, author, equipment representative, and video personality.

Varner earned Player of the Year honors in 1980 and again in 1989. In 1988, he earned over $100,000 in a series of sixteen nine-ball events. He entered the Billiard American Congress Hall of Fame in 1992.

14. Steve Mizerak

Steve Mizerak, often called “The Miz,” was born on October 12, 1944. His father owned a pool hall, and he started playing at age four, standing on milk crates to reach the table. He turned professional at just 13.

Mizerak graduated from Athens College in Alabama in 1968 and spent more than a decade teaching history in New Jersey, since pool still didn’t pay enough to support a full-time career. The game remained central in his life, though — even Willie Mosconi showed up at his college graduation, which just goes to show how much respect Mizerak had already earned inside the sport.

He competed in snooker, straight pool, and nine-ball throughout his career and was inducted into the BCA Hall of Fame in 1980.

13. Johnny Archer

Johnny Archer was born on November 12, 1968, in Acworth, Georgia. His career includes wins at the 1999 U.S. Open 9-Ball Championship, the enjoyable.com Open, and four Turning Stone Classic titles. He also co-owns a pool room in Marietta, Georgia, with fellow pro Kim Davenport.

Archer is best known for his run of 16 straight selections to the American Mosconi Cup team — the longest streak in the event’s history. He was inducted into the BCA Hall of Fame in 2009.

12. Mike Sigel

Mike Sigel was born in July 1952 and became one of the top competitors in straight pool and nine-ball. At age 35, he entered the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame, making him the youngest inductee at the time.

Sigel won three U.S. Open 9-Ball Championships, five World Pocket Billiards Championships, and 102 major pool tournaments. He was named Player of the Year three times by Pool and Billiards Magazine and Billiards Digest.

11. Luther Lassiter

Luther “Wimpy” Lassiter was born on November 5, 1918, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. He earned his nickname because he frequently ate orange sodas and hot dogs, similar to the Popeye character Wimpy.

Lassiter won the Jansco Brothers All-Around Titles, four 9-ball titles, one one-pocket title, and five straight pool titles between 1962 and 1972. In 1967, he won both the All-Around Title and the Congress of America’s U.S. Open.

He entered the BCA Hall of Fame in 1983 and died on October 25, 1988.

10. Francisco Bustamante

Francisco Bustamante was born on December 29, 1963, in the Philippines. He earned the nickname “Django,” inspired by the 1966 film character, and was often called “Bustie” during his years competing in the United States.

Bustamante collected more than 70 major international titles across his career and twice represented the Philippines alongside Efren Reyes at the World Cup of Pool, in 2006 and again in 2009. He was inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 2010.

9. Jeanette Lee

Jeanette Lee was born Lee Jin-Hee on July 9, 1971, in Brooklyn, New York. She became known as “The Black Widow”, a name she chose because she dressed in black and said she liked “eating people alive” during matches.

Lee won over 27 national and world titles, the WPBA U.S. Open 9-Ball Championship in 1994, and the Tournament of Champions twice. She earned the WPBA Sportsperson of the Year Award in 1998. She also played high-level matches against men, including top players such as Efren Reyes.

Lee joined the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 2013.

8. Earl Strickland

Earl Strickland was born on June 8, 1961. He picked up a cue when he was eight and was already playing in pro events by sixteen. His first big breakthrough came in 1983, when he beat Steve Mizerak to win the Caesars Tahoe Billiard Classic.

Over the years, Strickland built one of the strongest résumés in the game. He won the PCA $1,000,000 Challenge in 1996 — the biggest payout the sport had seen — along with three WPA World 9-Ball titles, two U.S. Open 9-Ball Championships, the World 8-Ball title, the World Pool Masters, and the World All Stars Invitational Team Cup. Altogether, he’s collected more than 100 tournament wins.

He was also on the table for one of the sport’s most replayed moments: the June 11, 1995, match where Efren Reyes pulled off a two-rail kick at 12–12. Strickland was inducted into the BCA Hall of Fame in 2006.

7. Rudolf Wanderone (Minnesota Fats)

Rudolf Walter Wanderone was born in 1913 and became widely known as “Minnesota Fats” and “New York Fats.” Although he never won a major event under the “Fats” name, he became the most recognizable billiards figure in the United States.

His nickname came from Jackie Gleason’s character in the 1961 film The Hustler. The association led to book deals and many television appearances, including several matches with Willie Mosconi. He entered the United States Billiards Hall of Fame in 1984 and died in 1996.

6. Shane Van Boening

Shane Van Boening was born on July 14, 1983, in Rapid City, South Dakota. He grew up with a hearing impairment, but in a family where pool was everywhere, he quickly became a wiz at the game. His steady, disciplined approach has been part of his identity from the start.

Across two decades on tour, Van Boening has put up numbers few modern players can match. His major wins include the 2022 WPA World Nine-Ball Championship, the 2023 WPA World Eight-Ball Championship, two World Pool Masters titles, five U.S. Open Nine-Ball crowns, the 2024 U.S. Open Ten-Ball, and the 2024 Premier League Pool. He has more than 100 professional titles to his name.

On March 26, 2024, he added another Premier League Pool victory, earning $20,000.

5. Willie Mosconi

Willie Mosconi was born on June 27, 1913, in Philadelphia. Known as “Mr. Pocket Billiards,” he became one of the central figures in bringing the game to a national audience and spent part of his career working on improvements to cues and billiard balls.

He won 15 world titles, including the World Straight Pool Championship, the U.S. Open Straight Pool Championship, and the World 14.1 Continuous Championship. He won the National Straight Pool Invitational in 1958.

Mosconi set the straight-pool world record with 526 consecutive balls. One record lists him as winning 15 championships between 1941 and 1957. He entered the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 1968, and another source names him among the first three inductees in 1996. He passed away on September 17, 1993.

4. Dave Pearson

Dave Pearson, known as the “Ginger Wizard,” has spent more than 30 years in professional pool. His best-known achievement is pocketing 16,499 balls in 24 hours.

Pearson said, “The secret thing about the pool is not to move your head.” Bernie Endres, General Manager of Massé, said, “No one was able to beat him, no one came close. I don’t think people realized how hard it is until they tried.”

Pearson performed in 33 countries, earned four Guinness World Records, and created the Pearson Cues brand, which is sold in over 120 countries. Another record states he holds 20 Guinness World Records, making him one of the top pool entertainers worldwide.

3. Allison Fisher

Allison Fisher was born on February 24, 1968, in Cheshunt, England, though another record lists Peachaven, Sussex. She began playing snooker at age seven and won her first world title at 17. She later moved to the United States because she felt that female players in the UK did not receive equal recognition.

Known as the “Duchess of Doom,” she won 12 world titles, three World 9-Ball Championships, 53 WPBA titles in 2009, and over 80 national titles. She was ranked No. 1 in the WPBA from September 1996 to June 2001, and again every year from 2002 to 2007.

Another record credits her with 50 WPBA titles, including four world championships, and multiple “Player of the Year” awards in 2007. Fisher entered the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame on June 8, 2009.

2. Ralph Greenleaf

Ralph Greenleaf was born in 1899 and learned the game in his father’s billiards hall in Monmouth. Nicknamed the “Bank Shot Wizard,” he built his reputation on long, controlled matches and the ability to make tough bank shots look routine.

Greenleaf dominated the World Pocket Billiards Championship from 1919 to 1924 and then again through a long run of titles between 1927 and 1940. Historical records credit him with 20 world pocket-billiards crowns, along with a National Billiards Championship and a World Balkline 18.2 title.

Given his sheer amount of success, he had a major impact beyond the sport; The New York Times once placed him in the same company as Babe Ruth, Jack Dempsey, and Bill Tilden. Greenleaf was among the first three inductees into the American Billiards Hall of Fame in 1966. He died in 1950.

1. Efren “Bata” Reyes

Efren “Bata” Reyes was born in the Philippines and learned the game early, often taking on adults while he was still a boy. People around the pool halls began calling him “Bata,” meaning “child,” both because of how young he was at the table and to tell him apart from an older Efren Reyes, who played in the same circles. “The Magician” came later, once his shot-making and creativity drew international attention.

Reyes has won more than 100 professional events and over 80 international titles. He is the first player to win world championships in two different disciplines, earning four WPA World 9-Ball titles and a World 8-Ball Championship. His résumé also includes three U.S. Open Championships, two World Championships, and thirteen Derby City Classic victories.

His 1996 Color of Money win over Earl Strickland earned him $100,000, the biggest prize in pool at the time. He beat Strickland again in their 2001 rematch. Reyes also won four Sands Regency 9-Ball Opens and competed across straight pool, nine-ball, three-cushion, one-cushion, and balkline.

He was inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 2003 and continues to appear in exhibitions and tournaments today.

Bonus: For another look at all-time talent in a different sport, here’s our breakdown of the 20 Best Soccer Players in History.

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