Clippers Dominate Nets; Escarra Celebrates First Major League Hit

NEW YORK (AP) — Kawhi Leonard scored 31 points as the Los Angeles Clippers secured a commanding 132-100 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night at the Barclays Center, marking their second consecutive win and tenth in their last 12 games.

Leonard’s performance was stellar, shooting 10 of 14 from the field, including a remarkable 5 of 6 from beyond the arc. He also sank all six free throw attempts and contributed six rebounds, four steals, and two blocks in just under 27 minutes of play. His efforts were crucial in helping the Clippers maintain their grip on sixth place in the Western Conference.

“We came out strong in the second quarter, and that set the tone for the rest of the game,” Leonard said after the game.

Ivica Zubac complemented Leonard’s scoring prowess with 21 points, shooting a perfect 9-for-9 from the field, and grabbing 12 rebounds. James Harden also chipped in with 17 points for Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, the Nets continued their struggles, with Keon Johnson leading their efforts with 13 points. Brooklyn has now lost six consecutive games, standing at 1-9 in their last ten outings and an alarming 2-16 over their previous 18 games. Drew Timme, who recently signed a multiyear contract, provided the Nets with 11 points and 10 rebounds.

The Clippers were trailing 27-26 at the end of the first quarter but dominated the next two quarters, outscoring the Nets 42-21 in the second and 37-21 in the third to take a commanding 105-69 lead.

Zubac’s performance also allowed him to surpass Swen Nater on the Clippers’ all-time rebounds list, moving into sixth place.

Next, the Clippers will face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, while the Nets will play the Washington Wizards on Saturday night.

NEW YORK (AP) — After years navigating a challenging minor league career, J.C. Escarra finally broke through with his first Major League hit at nearly 30 years old, a milestone he celebrated emphatically during the New York Yankees‘ 9-7 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday night.

Escarra, who has experienced significant adversity in his journey, expressed his excitement following the game. “I got a little bit too excited at second base,” he admitted. “But just enjoying the moment. Close game, big hit.”

A fan favorite, Yankees captain Aaron Judge praised Escarra’s resilience, saying, “Just the type of person he is — battle through that type of adversity. He’s come in here every single day with a smile on his face.”

Escarra made his Major League debut on Saturday against the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite a tough start, striking out as a pinch hitter and popping out, he didn’t let it deter him. In a later at-bat against the Diamondbacks, he doubled in the seventh inning, putting runners on second and third in a critical moment of the game.

“Before that at-bat, I’m like, man, I’m pressing. I’m trying to do too much,” said Escarra. “It’s funny how baseball works. When you don’t try to do too much, that’s when things come.”

Escarra’s story has captured the hearts of Yankees fans, some of whom recognized him on the subway following his viral video of calling his mother after his first hit. “They saw the video that went viral, which is cool,” he noted.

His family and friends were present for his first game but had left after the series against the Brewers. Escarra now resides in an apartment in suburban Yonkers, driving to Yankee Stadium.

“You can tell his passion and love for the game,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone stated. “He’s got a lot of experience and a lot of confidence in what he’s doing.”

Escarra plans to dedicate the ball from his first hit to his father, a dedicated Yankees fan, which he believes signifies a heartfelt moment for both. He also received a game ball from closer Luke Weaver after recording the final out of the game.