Read More

Who needs 3s when you can score a 4.0? In the fall of 2021, 16-year NBA veteran JR Smith enrolled at North Carolina A&T State University and joined the golf team as a walk-on. Now, in his second semester at the HBCU, the two-time NBA champion is already earning accolades in the classroom.

On Monday, the 36-year-old — who was originally slated to play basketball at North Carolina before jumping from St. Benedict’s Prep in Newark, New Jersey, to the NBA draft in 2004 — was named the Aggies’ Academic Athlete of the Year.

The news comes a week after apparel brand Lululemon signed Smith to be its golf ambassador through a name, image and likeness deal. The athlete known to hoops fans as “JR Swish” is the first male golfer to sign a brand ambassador deal with Lululemon.

In January, Smith signed with Excel Sports Management for NIL representation. At the time, Smith’s agent, Lance Young, told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that there was high interest from golf apparel and equipment manufacturers in sponsoring the enormously popular (6.2 million followers on Instagram alone) college athlete.

Smith first revealed that he was excelling in the classroom at the end of the fall semester. On Dec. 14, Smith took to social media to share he had achieved his goal of earning a 4.0 grade-point average.

In a video posted the same day, Smith was clearly emotional. “I can’t even describe the feeling,” he said. “A lot of hard work went into that s—.”

Smith — who won titles with LeBron James in 2016 as a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers and in 2020 with the Los Angeles Lakers — credited a conversation with Basketball Hall of Famer Ray Allen as the catalyst for his decision to petition the NCAA to be eligible to play.

Somewhere out there, Jesus Shuttlesworth is beaming.

Read More

Read More

Ja Morant has been named the NBA’s most improved player after a season in which the Memphis Grizzlies point guard went from future star to superstar.

In his third year, Morant was named an All-Star starter and averaged career bests of 27.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game to go along with 6.7 assists.

Though listed at just 6-foot-3 and 174 pounds, Morant put together a highlight reel packed with spectacular dunks and finishes at the rim, and high-flying blocks.

Morant received 221 points (38 first-place votes) from a global panel of 100 sportswriters and broadcasters, according to the league’s news release. San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray finished second with 183 points, and Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland finished third with 178.

The improvement Morant displayed helped the Grizzlies win 18 more games this season compared to last and go from playing their way in to the postseason last year to being the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference after a 56-26 regular season.

Read More

CHICAGO — Chicago Bulls guard Alex Caruso is in the NBA’s concussion protocol and is questionable for Game 5 of the first-round playoff series at Milwaukee, coach Billy Donovan said Monday.

The Bucks lead 3-1 and will try to wrap up the series at home on Wednesday. Milwaukee won the past two games in Chicago by a combined 54 points.

Caruso took an inadvertent hit to the face from the Bucks’ Jevon Carter while trying to get around a pick by Giannis Antetokounmpo late in the second quarter on Sunday. He exited with a bloody nose.

Arguably Chicago’s best defender, Caruso was limited to 41 games in the regular season after spending his first four years with the Los Angeles Lakers. He missed seven weeks because of a broken wrist following a hard foul by the Bucks’ Grayson Allen during a game in Milwaukee in January.

Read More

Ja Morant has been named the NBA’s most improved player after a season in which the Memphis Grizzlies point guard went from future star to superstar.

In his third year, Morant was named an All-Star starter and averaged career bests of 27.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game to go along with 6.7 assists.

Though listed at just 6-foot-3 and 174 pounds, Morant put together a highlight reel packed with spectacular dunks and finishes at the rim, and high-flying blocks.

Morant received 221 points (38 first-place votes) from a global panel of 100 sportswriters and broadcasters, according to the league’s news release. San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray finished second with 183 points, and Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland finished third with 178.

The improvement Morant displayed helped the Grizzlies win 18 more games this season compared to last and go from playing their way in to the postseason last year to being the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference after a 56-26 regular season.

Read More

The classy Chicago neighborhood of Gold Coast is the perfect spot for your next workday lunch. From relaxing cafes to upscale dining rooms, the Gold Coast area provides a place to decompress before an afternoon full of meetings or to connect with co-workers over delicious food. Keep reading to discover the 8 best restaurants in Gold Coast! 

Image Credit: 3 Arts Club Cafe

1300 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610

Unwind during your lunch break at 3 Arts Club Cafe, a stylish restaurant located inside the posh home-furnishing store Restoration Hardware. With giant olive trees, comfortable couches, and trickling fountains, the restaurant offers a serene place to pause during a busy workday. Try their famous truffle butter grilled cheese or opt for something lighter, like a salad or cheese board. 

52 W Elm St, Chicago, IL 60610

You’ll know when you’ve arrived at Blue Door Kitchen & Garden. The renovated carriage house home brings all of the charm of the southern countryside to the midwest, complete with a welcoming blue door. The quaint restaurant serves up southern eats such as fried chicken, deviled eggs, and mac and cheese. On a warm summer day, grab a seat on the courtyard patio to soak in the sunshine.  

1031 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611

Tavern on Rush sits on the lively Rush Street in the center of Gold Coast. Their wide variety of traditional American fare includes steak, pork chops, seafood, salads, and more. At this lunch spot, everyone is sure to find a mouthwatering meal to enjoy.

57 E Oak St, Chicago, IL 60611

Open since 1996, this Chicago staple serves a French Colonial style of Vietnamese food like classic pho and Cha Gio, a tasty version of fried spring rolls. Tropical palm trees and woven chairs create a soothing ambiance to spend the lunch hour before diving back into work tasks.

1028 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611

Grab a juicy steak or burger at Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse for the quintessential Gold Coast experience. Their old-school dining room features red leather booths and wooden floors for a simple lunch that spotlights their famed steak. If you’re feeling bold, round out your lunch with a giant slice of their decadent Texas Pecan pie.

1024 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611

Another Gold Coast staple, Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House sets up shop in the heart of the neighborhood. Their signature dishes include oysters, crab legs, and of course, sautéed frog’s legs. Their lovely outdoor seating on the front sidewalk provides the perfect place to sit and people-watch during a bustling lunch hour.

1015 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611

Visit Nico Osteria to enjoy an imaginative and fun take on Italian seafood. The dimmed lighting and warm colors inspire an inviting atmosphere to lunch away. Grab a seat at the bar surrounding the open kitchen to watch how the dishes, like the pan-seared scallop and bucatini carbonara, come to life.

Image Credit: Maple & Ash Chicago

8 W Maple St, Chicago, IL 60610

Maple & Ash considers themselves a modern, wood-fire take on the classic American steakhouse. Their impeccable service and creative menu make them one of the top spots for a fancy and elegant work lunch, or dinner, or… honestly, whichever. Because, for us, Maple & Ash is without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Gold Coast any day, any time.

Featured Image Credit: 3 Arts Club Cafe

Read More

Do you know what Chicago spring is about? Patios, lakeside walks, mimosas… You’re right about all those things, but… Okay, now you’ve got it! That’s right. Right now is also Chicago’s busiest wedding season! Before the summer heat catches up with us, check out the best spring wedding venues in Chicago for every type of bride. Love is in the air. Let’s give you, your love, and your guests an unforgettable wedding this year!

Image C

505 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Not only is the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile the site of almost 100 years of Chicago history, but it’s also a beautifully restored setting for an extravagant 1920’s inspired wedding. Gather your dearly beloved for a glitzy reception in one of its ornate foyers, then gaze out over the city lights as you dance the night away in an expansive ballroom. With 45,000 square feet of event space spread over 9 floors, their events team is equipped to bring your exquisite wedding to life in an ultra-historic setting.

Image Credit: The LaSalle Chicago Hotel

208 S LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60604

For some weddings, it’s all about the details, and The LaSalle Chicago Hotel’s elegant spaces are bursting with them. Located within Chicago’s newest luxury hotel opening in Spring 2022, the intimate wedding venue features a dedicated reception area, beautifully-appointed ballroom, and grand staircase for making an entrance to remember. The 5,486 square feet of event space has a capacity of 150, making it the perfect destination for a luxury elopement surrounded by your inner circle.

Image Credit: Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel

221 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

Boasting over 28,000 square feet of event space, including an 8,000 square foot outdoor terrace, the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel has plenty of space to accommodate a lengthy guest list, so couples can avoid the awkward “who should we cut” conversation. With weddings specialists on hand to help every step of the way, execute a large-scale event with ease. Plus, with multiple packages to choose from and exciting add-ons like customized A/V setups and complimentary digital signage, you can go ‘big’ with your wedding in more than one way!

I

201 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601

With its bold design and lighting capabilities, the playful spaces at theWit make the perfect place for curating a colorful and unforgettable wedding for the bride who wants to make a splash. The hotel offers over 14,000 square feet of event space, ranging from more traditional leaning ballrooms to a rooftop lounge area with a retractable roof (so no worries about wedding day weather disasters!). With state-of-the-art A/V capabilities and many ways to customize the event spaces, any of the modern hotel’s eye-catching spaces make the perfect on-trend venue for your big day.

Image Credit: Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown

71 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

Located on the Chicago River, Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown is the perfect destination for a scenic wedding. The hotel’s 10,000 square feet of event space includes a rooftop terrace with views of the Chicago river and skyline unlike any other venue in the city, making it the ultimate backdrop for saying ‘I do’. Fun fact: The adjacent interior room served as Bruce Wayne’s penthouse in the movie “The Dark Knight.”

Image Credit: Nobu Chicago

155 N Peoria St, Chicago, IL 60607

Even the small details matter at Nobu Hotel Chicago where every couple is made to feel like royalty. With an experienced events team ready to meet every need, Nobu is the perfect wedding destination for stylish brides looking for a wedding rooted in luxury. With Nobu’s signature aesthetic of modern simplicity, every couple can make their wedding truly their own. Nobu offers a variety of intimate event spaces from a 10th floor ballroom with stunning views of the Chicago skyline to a private dining space fit for exclusive weddings with unbelievable food. Have the wedding of the season at Nobu, where style meets high-class elegance.

Image Credit: The Blackstone

Entrance On, 636 South Michigan Avenue, E Balbo Dr Lobby, Chicago, IL 60605

Whether planning an intimate wedding with family and close friends or a grand occasion, The Blackstone is the perfect backdrop for one of the most important days of your life. Ideal for the artsy couple, the Art Hall, featuring a rotating exhibit of local Chicago artists, perfectly melds classic architecture with modern decor to capture the essence of the hotel’s past while savoring the present day. Beautifully restored to its original grandeur, the exquisite foyer encopasses sculptural details of paint brushes and palettes throughout the design. With 2,656 sqft of available space, it is ideal to innovate, entertain and inspire.

Image Credit: Kimpton Grey Hotel

122 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603

Located on the 15th floor of Kimpton Gray Hotel, Boleo, the rooftop restaurant and lounge perched high above the city is an ideal place for a foodie couple. Recite vows in the sleek-yet-lush space intermixed to evoke the dynamic energy of South America and enjoy innovative Latin-influenced cocktails and enticing food. Everything happens under the retractable glass roof, so the couple can indulge with family and friends in Peruvian and Argentinian street food-inspired small plates and dance underneath the stars with a drink in hand to sultry beats.

Image Credit: Renaissance Chicago

1 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

Centrally located along the Chicago River, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel boasts more than 40,000 square feet of versatile, renovated event spaces. With more than 21 flexible rooms, banquet halls and a rooftop venue, any bride will have her fair share of space when hosting the biggest and most grand affair. Better yet, Marriott Certified Wedding Planners are available to plan every single detail from table settings to floral arrangements to photographers and any other detail to make sure the big day goes off without a hitch.

Featured Image Credit: Kimpton Grey Hotel

Read More