Russell Westbrook has announced his retirement from the NBA after 18 seasons in the league. Westbrook confirmed his retirement on social media on Wednesday. “Sometimes you don’t even know when you’ve already watched the end,” Westbrook’s captions read. “You had to be there. And now it’s over.  Sometimes you don’t even know when you’ve already watched the end. You had to be there. And now it’s over. pic.twitter.com/6YoOW8WyIV — Russell Westbrook (@russwest44) August 12, 2026 According to ESPN, Westbrook “had offers this offseason with the Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards.” Instead, he leaves the game on his own terms. WESTBROOK’S HALL OF FAME CAREER Defined by his hyper-athleticism and competitive fire, Westbrook built a historic NBA legacy as one of the most explosive point guards to ever play the game. Westbrook’s 11-season run with the Oklahoma City Thunder (2008–2019) remains one of the most explosive, relentless, and transformative eras for a player and a franchise in modern NBA history.  Drafted fourth overall as the franchise transitioned to Oklahoma City, Westbrook quickly formed a dynamic duo alongside Kevin Durant, leading the Thunder to four Western Conference Finals appearances and a trip to the 2012 NBA Finals. However, his legacy in OKC reached iconic status after Durant’s 2016 departure, when Westbrook embraced sole leadership of the franchise with unmatched ferocity.   In the  2016–17 season, he won the League MVP and became the first player since Oscar Robertson to average a triple-double across an entire season. He would repeat the feat he went on to repeat three more times. Eventually, he surpassed Robertson as the NBA’s all-time leader in career triple-doubles.  Selected as a member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, Westbrook’s resume features nine All-Star selections, nine All-NBA Team honors, two All-Star Game MVPs, two scoring titles, and three assist titles, solidifying his spot among the league’s all-time premier playmakers.  Westbrook also played for the Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, and Sacramento Kings. 

Comedian and actress Tiffany Haddish pleaded guilty Tuesday to a driving under the influence charge in a Georgia court, concluding a legal saga that began with her arrest more than four years ago. The negotiated plea deal allows the “Girls Trip” star to avoid additional jail time in connection with the January 2022 incident. Haddish, 46, entered her plea via video conference, admitting to one count of DUI driving less safe. In exchange for the plea, prosecutors dropped all other pending charges against her. The court sentenced the comedian to 12 months of probation and a 24-hour jail term. Because Haddish had already spent a day in custody following her initial arrest, the judge credited her for time served. The case originated in Fayetteville, located south of Atlanta, when officers responded to reports of a driver asleep behind the wheel. The resolution of this Georgia case follows a similar legal incident in California. In early 2024, Haddish reached a separate plea agreement regarding a November 2023 arrest in Beverly Hills, where she was also found asleep in a vehicle. During the Tuesday proceedings, the court finalized the terms that will keep the actress under supervision for the next year. Haddish has been open in the past about her personal growth and her commitment to sobriety following her high-profile legal challenges. By pleading to the lesser “less safe” charge, Haddish avoids the more severe penalties associated with a standard DUI conviction while still being held accountable under the state’s traffic laws. The Emmy and Grammy-winning entertainer has remained active in her career despite the ongoing litigation. With the Georgia case now closed, Haddish is expected to continue her upcoming projects without the looming threat of a criminal trial.

Rapper Rod Wave is facing more than 90 gigabytes of evidence as prosecutors prepare to advance a criminal case stemming from a 2025 shooting outside his Milton, Georgia, home. Prosecutors disclosed July 31 that they had provided Rodarius Green’s defense with roughly 1,900 photographs and 111 videos. Green faces 14 charges related to the April 2025 incident. The allegations include aggravated assault, firearm possession during a felony, pointing or aiming a gun, reckless conduct and criminal property damage. According to police, a verbal dispute involving Green and an associate escalated into gunfire. Investigators allege Green fired multiple shots outside the residence, striking several vehicles. The shooting followed a reported burglary at Green’s home. Green has pleaded not guilty and has disputed the allegations through his attorney, Drew Findling. “There is no truth to these charges,” Findling said in a statement. “Rod Green was a victim of a burglary and committed no crimes,” Findling said. “How he was even charged as a result of this situation is incomprehensible.” Prosecutors Submit 90gb of Evidence In Rapper Rod Wave’s 2025 Shooting Case Involving Ex-Girlfriend Findling also predicted a favorable outcome for his client. “This will absolutely be resolved favorably to Mr. Green,” he said. The latest disclosure provides Green’s attorneys with a substantial volume of material to examine before the next court proceeding. Prosecutors have not publicly described every photograph or video included in the production. The evidence could contain additional material concerning the alleged shooting and events surrounding it. Green’s next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 28 in Georgia. The criminal case unfolds as Green prepares to release his next album, Don’t Look Down. He is also scheduled to begin a tour supporting the project Sept. 12. The parallel legal and music schedules place Green’s criminal defense alongside a major period in his recording career. The 90GB evidence production represents the latest development in the Milton case. Green’s defense team must now review the materials as the prosecution moves toward the next stage of the proceedings. The case remains pending, and the allegations against Green have not been proven in court.

Sexy Drill rapper Cash Cobain is bringing his signature style to True Religion’s fall 2026 Iconography Capsule. The Summer Jam 2026 performer and producer fronts the limited-edition collection, which revisits the denim brand’s most recognizable design codes through a contemporary lens. The campaign positions Cobain as an artist whose originality has become central to his cultural identity. True Religion’s Iconography Capsule draws from the visual language that has defined the brand for more than two decades. Its signature Horseshoe, Buddha and Big T motifs appear throughout the collection. Super T contrast stitching and script branding also return across denim, fleece, graphic T-shirts, activewear and outerwear. Matching sets round out the assortment. “True Religion has always stood for authenticity,” said Kristen D’Arcy, the brand’s chief marketing officer. She said the campaign celebrates people who define their own paths rather than follow trends. Cobain embodies that philosophy through his evolution from Bronx producer to one of rap’s most distinctive new voices. His “sexy drill” sound has helped reshape the genre while establishing a style that remains uniquely his own. The campaign frames that individuality as a form of recognition. It also connects Cobain’s musical identity with True Religion’s longstanding visual heritage. Bronx Rapper Cash Cobain Is The Face Of True Religion’s Iconography Capsule “The Iconography Capsule highlights the brand’s iconic design language,” said Tina Blake, True Religion’s creative director and senior vice president of design, merchandising and brand image. Blake said the collection brings archival elements into modern silhouettes. The approach preserves the designs that made True Religion recognizable while adapting them for contemporary culture. For Cobain, the campaign arrives as his aesthetic continues to extend beyond music. His presence gives the collection a connection to a new generation of hip-hop audiences and style enthusiasts. The Iconography Capsule also asks consumers to consider their own identities. True Religion’s “What makes you recognizable?” campaign invites participants to share what distinguishes them. The initiative will culminate Aug. 29 with an open casting event at True Religion’s Los Angeles headquarters. The event will include live DJs, surprise guests, giveaways and interactive photo opportunities. Two winners will appear in the brand’s “Ones to Watch” social series. They will also receive a Los Angeles photoshoot, travel accommodations, brand features and a True Religion shopping experience. Through Cobain, the capsule links archival fashion codes with an artist who has made individuality part of his signature.

Luigi Mangione’s defense team is seeking to livestream his upcoming state murder trial as his attorneys adjust their strategy amid separate state and federal prosecutions. Mangione faces charges stemming from the December 2024 fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. His New York defense team previously considered an extreme emotional disturbance defense but withdrew it earlier this summer. JUST IN: photos of Luigi Mangione at his court hearing today. pic.twitter.com/tGl06u9Pm3 — Luigi Archive (@Luigi_Archive) August 11, 2026 Sources cited by TMZ attributed the decision to the timing of Mangione’s state and federal cases. The defense cannot use that specific defense in federal court. Raising it in state court could also create complications for the later federal proceedings. TMZ host Harvey Levin reported that Mangione’s lawyers are now considering other ways to present evidence concerning his mental and emotional state. One issue could involve a diary investigators seized after Mangione’s 2024 arrest. Prosecutors have characterized the writings as evidence that Mangione planned Thompson’s killing. Luigi Mangione Asks The Judge If His Upcoming Trial Can Be Viewed On Livestream Other passages reportedly describe Mangione’s anger toward the health care industry. His attorneys could seek to use those writings to provide jurors with context surrounding his state of mind. Whether jurors see the diary will depend on evidentiary rulings by the court. The defense is also reportedly seeking a livestream of the proceedings. Levin said Mangione’s attorneys believe broader public access could benefit their client. The proposal comes amid significant public interest in the case and support for Mangione among some younger observers. Any livestream, however, would remain subject to court rules governing courtroom proceedings. The defense’s strategy could face additional scrutiny because jurors must decide the case based on evidence presented in court. Outside public reaction cannot substitute for admissible evidence. The state prosecution is scheduled to proceed before Mangione’s federal case. That sequence has influenced the defense’s decisions regarding potential arguments and evidence. Mangione’s attorneys now appear focused on preserving their options across both cases. Their approach may include presenting evidence about his state of mind without formally relying on the withdrawn defense. Both prosecutions remain pending, and the court has not ruled on the proposed livestream. The proceedings could provide an unusually public view of a closely watched criminal case if the request is granted.

Jaylen Brown is excited to begin his tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers. Bronw was all smiles duing his introductory new conference at the Francis J. Myers Recreation Center in West Philadelphia. At the news conference, Brown assured the Sixers fans base that he’s not concerned with a role but winning a chip. “It doesn’t have to be anybody’s team,” Brown said. “We have to be a team of respect. I’m about winning. I want to come in and do whatever it takes to win.” Brown also has been in contact and is looking forward to teaming up with LeBron James. “I’m looking forward to learning from LeBron,” Brown said. “I’m looking forward to learning from all these guys. But, LeBron, just everything that he’s endured during his career, on and off the floor. One of my favorite things to do is learn. I can’t wait to soak up as much information as I can and apply that to myself.”  “For me, the work has started already,” he said. “I’m looking forward to doing whatever it is I need to do, whoever I need to talk to, to make sure that we get on the same page, and that everybody’s focused on the same thing. If we do that, then we’ll be where we want to be.”  In a blockbuster 2026 offseason reshuffle, the Philadelphia 76ers transformed into an instant championship favorite by acquiring both Brown and James. Joining forces alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and V.J. Edgecomb. Brown—arriving via trade from the rival Boston Celtics—and James—signing a team-friendly contract after contemplating retirement—have both expressed a willing readiness to adapt their roles, sacrifice individual stats, and do whatever it takes to deliver a title to Brotherly Love.  On opening night, the new-look Sixers take on the defending champion New York Knicks.

Mayor Ray Giacobbe of Rahway, NJ sits down with DJ Drewski on HOT 97’s Midday Movement with DJ Drewski for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond politics. They talk about the Mayor’s Summer Concert Series (featuring Jim Jones, Maino, Memphis Bleek, and more), Rahway’s hip-hop roots, and why the city is embracing — not banning — rap events. Then things get real: Mayor Giacobbe opens up about losing his 22-year-old daughter Bella in 2022, how fitness helped him battle depression, and what keeps him going every single day. He also discusses the Bella Kind Foundation, Rahway’s booming redevelopment, and what it really means to lead a community. This one hits different. Mayor’s Summer Concert Series — Every Thursday in August at Union County Performing Arts Center Learn more about Bella Kind Foundation Rahway, NJ — Come experience it for yourself

Undisputed world champion Claressa Shields is opening up about her desire to start a family, revealing she is eager to balance her championship boxing career with motherhood. During a candid appearance on Cam Newton’s “Funky Friday Podcast” on Aug. 7, Shields joked about her surprise that she has not yet become pregnant given her close relationship with partner and hip-hop artist Papoose. The 31-year-old boxing star, known as the “G.W.O.A.T.” (Greatest Woman of All Time), told Newton that she and Papoose spend significant time together whenever she is not away at training camp. Shields said that when she visits his home for weeks at a time, their focus shifts away from the ring and toward their personal life, leading to her lighthearted comment about their efforts to conceive. “I think we enjoy eating together and a lot of times we just enjoy lounging around,” Shields said during the interview. “Like, I’m surprised that I haven’t been pregnant yet. Seriously. Like, no. Like, for real.” Shields has been vocal for months about her intention to have children sooner rather than later. She previously told “The Pivot Podcast” that she has no interest in waiting until her 40s to start a family. She said she wants to be an active mother who can run at the park with her children, even if it means taking a brief hiatus from her dominant run in the professional boxing ranks. The relationship between Shields and Papoose has evolved from a friendship into a deep romantic and professional partnership. The boxer credited Papoose with being instrumental in her business dealings, including helping her secure a lucrative four-fight deal with Wynn Records. That agreement includes an $8 million minimum, ensuring her financial future as she prepares for life outside the ring. Despite her domestic aspirations, Shields remains a formidable force in sports. She is currently focused on her upcoming bout on Aug. 15 in Atlanta, where she will attempt to add two more world titles to her already historic collection. She said she remains “locked in” for the fight, maintaining the discipline required to stay at the top of the sport. Shields has made history as the first boxer in the four-belt era to hold undisputed titles in two different weight classes simultaneously. While she plans to briefly step away for a pregnancy in the future, she has expressed confidence that she can return to the sport and continue her legacy after becoming a mother. Papoose, who was formerly married to rapper Remy Ma, has been a constant fixture at Shields’ recent fights and training sessions. The couple has frequently shared their journey on social media, blending their lives in the entertainment and sports worlds. For now, Shields remains focused on the immediate task in Atlanta before turning her full attention to the next chapter of her personal life.

Rapper Yella Beezy, whose real name is Markies Conway, is asking a Dallas County judge to force prosecutors to narrow their witness list ahead of his upcoming murder-for-hire trial. The “That’s On Me” hitmaker‘s attorney, Toby Shook, filed the four-page motion Monday with the Dallas County Clerk. The filing challenges a State of Texas witness list that now names 264 potential witnesses. State of TX v. @YellaBeezy214: Yella Beezy’s attorney Toby Shook (@toby_shook) filed a motion with the Dallas County Clerk on Monday, August 10, asking Judge Chika Anyiam to force prosecutors to narrow their 264-name witness list before trial. In 4-page motion, Shook argues… pic.twitter.com/8B30m0dVPK — Bryson “Boom” Paul (@brysonboompaul) August 10, 2026 Prosecutors initially identified 194 potential witnesses in a filing submitted July 27. The list included Brandon Rainwater, manager of slain Dallas rapper Mo3, Conway’s girlfriend DeAndrea Harris, rappers Trapboy Freddy and Jose Bodega, and alleged co-conspirators Jerry Johnson, also known as Maserati, Devin Brown and Kewon White. The State later filed an amended witness list Aug. 3. The filing added 70 names, bringing the potential witness total to 264. Prosecutors Tommy Adams, Ricardo Vela and Sharonda Davis are handling the case for the State. Dallas Rapper Yella Beezy Asks Court To Force Prosecution To Downsize 264-Named State’s Witness List Shook argues the expanded list does not provide meaningful notice of whom prosecutors actually intend to call. Instead, the defense says the disclosure resembles an investigative file rather than a focused trial list. According to the motion, requiring the defense to investigate 264 people would consume limited time and resources. Shook argues that many listed witnesses may never testify. The defense contends that a narrowed list is necessary for adequate trial preparation and a fair proceeding. Shook is asking Judge Chika Anyiam to order prosecutors to provide a “good-faith” narrowed witness list by Aug. 14. The defense also wants prosecutors to separately identify potential rebuttal witnesses. Shook asks the court to bar undisclosed witnesses from testifying unless the State establishes good cause and provides reasonable notice. The State has not responded to the motion as of Monday afternoon. Anyiam has not ruled on the request. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for Aug. 21. Jury selection and trial are scheduled to begin Aug. 24 in Dallas County Criminal District Court No. 7. The dispute comes as prosecutors prepare to present their case against Conway, while his defense seeks clearer limits on the witnesses it must investigate before trial.

Dallas rapper and Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta reality star Erica Banks goes viral over the weekend when a social media clip surfaces of her buying children ski masks and hair bundles in Dallas, Texas, for back-to-school preparation. The clips surfaced on Instagram Aug. 8. One video shows Banks inside a Dallas department store surrounded by children and teenagers. Her hit song “Buss It” plays through the store as several young fans hold ski masks. Banks described the encounter as an impromptu meet-and-greet. “Y’all, so I’m walking around the store. Doing my little meet-and-greet,” Banks said. “Three musketeers pulled up on me and said, ‘Uhhh can you buy me something?’” View this post on Instagram She said she asked the children what they wanted before showing viewers their purchases. “And guess what I’m doing? Show them the ski masks, ayyyyyyeeee!” Banks said. The ski masks quickly became the focus of online discussion. Several commenters questioned whether they were appropriate purchases for children during back-to-school season. “We lost they already killing us in our ski masks and arresting us for nothing if we have one in public and this is what you do what about back to school shopping,” one commenter wrote. Another person suggested a different approach. Love & Hip-Hop Rapper Erica Banks Goes Viral Buying Children Ski Masks & Hair Bundles For Back-To-School Supplies In Dallas, Texas “lol I literally would’ve said no cause what that got to do with back to school. I’ll buy yall backpack ,” the commenter wrote. A third commenter took a more pointed approach, asking, “Ski mask for school???? what school is that??? robbery, murder, and assault school ????” Another added, “They got them ski mask to rob you girl stay woke.” Banks later appeared at The Hair Depot, where she bought hair bundles for several teenage girls. “Y’all she just got her some bundles,” Banks said. She recalled one girl asking, “Can you get me these?” Banks laughed before responding, “You want me to buy you some bundles, girl?” After asking the girls to greet the camera, Banks joked about the unexpected spending. “Y’all, they just broke my pockets — real bad,” she said. Banks later defended the spirit of the outing through her Instagram captions. “Asking me to buy bundles was so bold bruh. LMAO, she ain’t wrong tho. I love my city, anything for them,” she wrote. She added, “Brought everybody what they wanted today.” The videos show Banks supporting young Dallas fans while also highlighting a debate over the appropriateness of ski masks for children during back-to-school season.