Diddy’s Allegedly Blames Drugs as Judge Clears Violent Video for Trial
By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com Senior
National Correspondent
Sean “Diddy” Combs is preparing to argue that heavy drug and alcohol use left him mentally incapable of forming criminal intent, a defense that prosecutors are moving swiftly to block ahead of his looming federal trial. Media Take Out, the entertainment blog that focuses primarily on African Americans in the entertainment industry, reported that Diddy’s legal team plans to call a Columbia University professor to testify about the music mogul’s alleged impaired mental state during the time of the alleged offenses. Prosecutors have filed motions opposing the testimony, calling it improper and irrelevant. They argue that Diddy’s defense failed to provide proper notice under the law and noted that the professor never personally evaluated him, meaning any testimony would rely on general expertise rather than clinical observation. According to newly filed documents, Diddy’s attorneys hope to argue that substance abuse impaired his ability to control his actions. Prosecutors counter that whether Diddy was “lucid” during the alleged incidents does not excuse or diminish his legal responsibility.
The defense also faces another major setback.
During the latest hearing, Judge Arun Subramanian ruled that graphic surveillance video showing Diddy allegedly attacking ex-girlfriend Cassie at a Los Angeles hotel in 2016 will be allowed as evidence during the trial. None of Diddy’s attorneys responded to comment requests from Black Press
USA. Prosecutors declined to comment. The trial is set to begin with jury selection on May 5. In preparation, Diddy’s legal team submitted 30 questions for potential jurors, TMZ reported. The proposed questions probe prospective jurors’ views on drug use, celebrities, group sex, cheating in relationships, and opinions about hip-hop culture. One question asks whether hearing about “people
engaging in sexual relations with multiple sexual partners” would impact a juror’s ability to be fair. At the same time, another addresses whether jurors believe wealthy individuals are treated differently by the justice system.
Diddy’s legal team is stacked with high-profile attorneys, including lead lawyer Marc Antony Agnifilo, who previously represented NXIVM
leader Keith Raniere, former Goldman Sachs banker Roger Ng, IMF chief Dominique StraussKahn, and “Pharma Bro” Martin Shkreli. He is joined by Teny Geragos, a partner with experience in defending sexual misconduct allegations and the daughter of famed attorney Mark Geragos. Other defense team members include Alexandra Shapiro and Brian Steel, who recently defended rapper Young Thug in Georgia’s longest-running criminal trial. The prosecution team features eight lawyers, with five designated as leads: Emily Anne Johnson, Madison Reddick Smyser, Mary Christine Slavik, Meredith Foster, and Mitzi Steiner. Prosecutor Maurene Comey, daughter of former FBI Director James Comey, will also play a major role, having previously helped secure the conviction of British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell. Prosecutors are expected to call forensic psychologist Dawn Hughes, who testified during the R. Kelly criminal trial and the Johnny DeppAmber Heard defamation case. Meanwhile, Diddy’s former chief of staff, Kristina Khorram is facing at least three civil lawsuits alleging that she helped cover up Diddy’s alleged behavior. She has not been charged with a crime. Judge Subramanian, who once clerked for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and practiced at the prestigious Manhattan firm Susman Godfrey, is presiding over the case which NBC News said is the most highprofile assignment of his career to date.
After ‘The Idol,’ Abel Tesfaye’s
New Movie ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’ Brought ‘Joy Back into Filmmaking’
By KRYSTA FAURIA
Associated Press
LAS VEGAS (AP) — Abel Tesfaye has always known he wanted to pursue a career in cinema. He sees his meteoric rise to fame as one of today’s biggest pop superstars under the moniker The Weeknd as a detour to make that happen.
Nearly two years after he made his acting debut with HBO’s “The Idol,” which he co-created with Sam Levinson, Tesfaye said his latest experimental musical film which also stars Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan “brought the joy back into filmmaking."
“Hurry Up Tomorrow,” a Lionsgate release hitting theaters May 16, is a kind of companion piece to the final album of the same name released earlier this year in the artist’s record-breaking trilogy.
Along with director Trey Edward Shults, Tesfaye, 35, spoke with The Associated Press about retiring The Weeknd, losing his voice onstage in 2022 and lessons learned from making “The Idol.”
The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
AP: How has cinema and long-form storytelling through film influenced you as an artist?
TESFAYE: Cinema, for me, it’s always been my number one passion. And then I happened to sing and make music and it kind of felt like a little detour, a little cheat code to kind of get into this. I always wanted to make movies and I always
want to make music with movies. You always kind of hear and see the DNA of cinema in my albums and my music videos, my performances and my stage. So it’s always just been a part of me.
AP: You come in with this very vulnerable, personal project, and you enlist Trey to make it. How did you guys navigate that and why did you trust him?
TESFAYE: Well, first and foremost, I was a fan of his work. So I knew that he was gonna, whatever I gave him, he’s gonna make something incredible. But when we met, we just were kind of inseparable. We became really, really close friends and family. And the trust just came natural after that. It’s like no one else can tell the story but Trey. So it was very easy for me.
SHULTS: For me too, it was like my first movie I made for $30,000 with literal family members acting in it and friends in it. It was this beautiful, magical experience and I told myself going forward, doing bigger projects, I only wanna work with humans that I truly feel connected to and you feel that kismet good energy connection and when I met Abel, I felt that. And it was just natural and organic and he was a genuine fan and I could tell his genuine trust and like wanting to embolden me and try to make this my own film. And I just got crazy inspired.
AP: Did you always see this as the third part in
the trilogy?
TESFAYE: It was always the third part, yeah. I didn’t know what I wanted to say at the time, but I knew I was making some sort of saga. But that was more just for myself. I kind of wanted to establish that I wanted to make something that can end a story. And lo and behold, something actually happened to me that I felt like, whatever I had in store, whatever plans I had prior, threw it out the window aocused 110% on this story.
AP: How did what happened change your understanding of you as an artist? You said cinema has always been the goal. Do you feel like it kind of helped you see your priorities in some ways?
TESFAYE: Absolutely. I mean I was juggling a million things at the time, you know, and I was on tour, dealing with personal stuff as well. But that’s happened before. I was able to still rely on my super power. You know, I can go on stage and it’s this cathartic experience with the fans. I can shut my world off for an hour and a half, two hours and just lose myself in my performance. And when it got to a point where the lines were blurring, it was affecting my stage performance — people spend a lot of money to come to these shows. They save up for a year, and it got a point where, oh my God, I can’t give them what they want, my voice is failing me. And I knew at that moment, I needed to sit down and figure out what was going on up there.
Because it wasn’t a physical injury.
AP: Did that influence your decision to retire The Weeknd?
TESFAYE: That kind of helped it.
AP: So now you’re bringing yourself? Abel is who you want people to know?
TESFAYE: It’s not even that. I mean, I’ve always been Abel. The Weeknd’s always been a performance. I’m gonna be super hyperbolic here a little bit, but it felt like I had nothing else to say. That’s what it kind of felt like to me. I was on stage and it’s like I’ve said everything I can say as this person, and now it’s time for me to take that next step. And this film was kind of like that guiding light for me.
AP: Were there any lessons from “The Idol” that you took into this project?
TESFAYE: Yeah, I mean, naturally you learn. That was the first thing we had ever done. You always learn. You’re working with great, great artists at the time and I'm still really close with everyone from the set. But it was a learning experience. This felt a little bit, had a little more joy making it. Felt a little but more personal. “Idol” didn’t really feel like mine at the time. This one felt very much personal and I’m saying this now, that Trey really brought that, and Jenna, of course, brought the joy back into filmmaking. Like, “Yeah, I do want to do this. This is great.” (Laughs)
Sean Combs (Wikimedia Commons)
California Capitol News You Might Have Missed Political Playback
By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media Sen. Padilla Releases
Statement on Trump’s First 100 Days
U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) issued a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office, calling them “the worst first 100 days of any president in modern history.”
and fiscal challenges. The Trump administration has slashed higher education funding, launched investigations into UC’s admissions and diversity practices, and accused campuses of fostering antisemitism. In response, UC has lost $300 million in federal research grants and enacted a systemwide hiring freeze.
Addressing the UC Regents at a public meeting in San Francisco, Milliken emphasized the urgency of confronting these external threats while continuing to expand access and innovation. “These are unprecedented times in higher education,” he said. “We need to right the ship and move forward with strength and clarity.”
“We’re DOGE but better,” Newsom said, stressing that California’s approach is about strengthening public services, not cutting them. Newsom emphasized that the projects are being implemented in coordination with state employees and unions, contrasting the state’s approach with federal cost-cutting measures under Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. “The announcement we’re making today was done in partnership with state workers and employees. That’s the difference,” Newsom said in Los Angeles.
announced Tuesday that his Affordable Rent Act, AB 1157, which proposed reducing the state’s rent cap from 10% to 5% for most multifamily properties over 15 years old, would be delayed and reintroduced in 2026. The bill also sought to expand eviction protections and extend safeguards to renters in single-family homes.
Padilla highlighted several areas of concern, including the administration’s impact on federal programs, the economy, and immigrant communities.
In a statement released on April 29, Padilla accused Trump of undermining vital federal services that millions of Americans depend on.
“Trump has devastated federal programs and services that families in California and across the country rely on,” he said.
Padilla added that the president’s trade policies have raised prices for Americans while failing to deliver on promises of economic relief.
“Trump promised to lower costs, but since taking office, his policies have driven prices up on everything from food to utilities to prescription drugs,” he said.
Padilla also criticized Trump’s budget proposals, which he called a “cruel Billionaire-first Budget” that would increase costs for working families while benefiting the wealthy. The senator reinforced that cuts to federal programs have real consequences further warning that critical services like healthcare, Social Security, and veterans’ benefits are at risk.
The senator’s remarks underscored the growing frustration among California’s Democratic leadership over Trump’s policies, which Padilla says are contributing to “costs, chaos, and corruption.”
He further stressed the negative impact on Californians, stating, “Our economy, consumer confidence, and the livelihoods of the American people are down -- that’s the legacy of Donald Trump’s first 100 days.”
Padilla vowed to continue fighting for California communities, pledging to oppose what he described as Trump’s attacks on the economy, environment, and core values.
Gov. Newsom
Congratulates New U.C. President; Thanks Outgoing Leader for Vision, Contribution
The University of California has named James B. Milliken, current chancellor of the University of Texas system, as its next president. The UC Board of Regents announced the appointment May 2, selecting Milliken after a six-month national search to succeed Michael V. Drake, who will step down on July 31. Milliken, 68, will lead the nation’s top public university system, a $53 billion enterprise with 10 campuses, six academic health centers, and three national laboratories, at a time of mounting political
California Gov. Gavin Newsom welcomed the appointment of Milliken as UC President, highlighting the importance of his leadership in shaping the university’s future.
“Chancellor Milliken brings years of experience and the steady, strategic leadership needed to expand UC’s impact across the state,” said Newsom.
“I am excited to see him drive the next chapter of innovation, talent, and progress that will shape California and the country for generations to come.”
The governor also expressed gratitude to outgoing President Michael V. Drake for his leadership and dedication to California’s students.
“I also want to thank Dr. Michael Drake for his leadership and vision during his tenure. He is a strong partner and his intellect, experience and commitment to our students has helped grow the next generation of California leaders. We wish him well in his retirement,” said Newsom.
A veteran of public university leadership, Milliken previously served as president of the University of Nebraska and chancellor of the City University of New York. At Texas, he led efforts to broaden access for low-income students, launch mental health initiatives, and implement major changes following GOP-led bans on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
Milliken is expected to bring steady leadership and a collaborative approach as UC navigates federal investigations, state budget cuts, and growing campus unrest. Regents praised his deep experience and political acumen.
“He understands the transformative power of a public university system,” said Regent Chair Janet Reilly.
Milliken will begin his term in August, relocating from Austin to the Bay Area to take the helm of California’s flagship university system.
California Expands AI Use to Boost Public Safety, Customer Service, and Gov’t Efficiency
Gov. Gavin Newsom on April 29 announced a new wave of artificial intelligence initiatives aimed at improving public safety, enhancing customer service, and streamlining state operations. The state has entered into three new partnerships to apply generative AI (GenAI) technologies in traffic management, highway safety, and taxpayer assistance.
“California is demonstrating that GenAI can help us improve the way we do business for Californians,” said Trista Gonzalez, director of the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), which will use AI to assist call center agents during peak seasons.
The initiatives include using Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI platform to help Caltrans reduce highway congestion, deploying Google Gemini AI via Deloitte to identify traffic safety improvements, and incorporating Anthropic’s Claude to improve CDTFA’s response times to taxpayer inquiries.
The announcement builds on Newsom’s 2023 executive order directing state agencies to adopt GenAI to deliver faster, more responsive services. It comes as California faces off with the federal government over proposed cuts to AmeriCorps and tariffs, further asserting its role in shaping national policy through innovation and legal challenges.
Additional initiatives, including the Engaged California digital platform and a new productivityfocused AI pilot program, underscore the state’s broader push to modernize how it serves residents.
California’s Elections Chief and AG Bonta Oppose Federal Voter ID Push
California Secretary of State Shirley Weber and Attorney General Rob Bonta are pushing back against a federal bill backed by President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans that would impose voter ID requirements nationwide, arguing it threatens decades of progress in expanding voter access.
The U.S. House passed the proposed legislation, known as the SAVE Act, in April. It would require all voters to register in person with proof of citizenship, effectively undermining California’s voter-friendly laws such as same-day registration and automatic enrollment through the DMV. Trump previously suggested tying wildfire aid to California’s adoption of voter ID and signed an executive order on the issue, which has been blocked by a federal judge.
Weber criticized the bill as a “step backward,” saying it would disproportionately impact voters without easy access to documents like passports or birth certificates. Drawing from her personal history, she noted that her parents, former sharecroppers, were unable to vote in the Jim Crow South because of discriminatory barriers.
“Access to voting is essential in a democracy,” said Weber. “We are prepared in California to fight for democracy.”
Weber and Bonta are also challenging a voter ID law passed in Huntington Beach, arguing it violates state law. While an Orange County judge dismissed the state’s lawsuit, an appeal is underway. Democrats in the California Legislature recently blocked a state-level voter ID proposal, while Weber emphasized that California already has multiple safeguards ensuring only eligible voters can register.
“We don’t have any information that says we have voter fraud,” she said.
If the SAVE Act passes the Senate and is signed into law, it could reshape voting rights across the U.S., a prospect that California’s top officials say they are determined to resist.
California Rent Cap Bill Pulled Amid Housing Development Concerns
A bill aimed at strengthening rent control across California has been withdrawn for the year amid mounting opposition from real estate and landlord groups, though backers vow to revive the effort next legislative session.
Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D–San José)
“As we enter an economic downturn and vulnerable Californians face dire financial situations, we must guide our policies with empathy,” said Kalra. “Housing is a human right.” The legislation passed the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee by a slim margin but faced hesitation in the Judiciary Committee, where lawmakers cited concerns over unintended impacts on housing development. Industry opponents, including the California Apartment Association, argued the bill would discourage construction and strain small landlords.
Tenant advocates expressed disappointment. “We are going to come back every single year until there is a resolution,” said Shanti Singh of Tenants Together, citing the urgency of rising rents. “At the current cap, a tenant’s rent could double in just seven years.” The 2019 Tenant Protection Act, which Kalra’s bill aimed to strengthen, will sunset in 2030. With rents continuing to climb and housing affordability ranked among voters’ top concerns, both sides expect continued battles ahead.
State Is Empowering Older Californians
Through Conversation and Resources
May is Older Californians Month, a time to celebrate the resilience, strength, and wisdom of older adults while encouraging important conversations about aging, according to the California Department of Aging (CDA). This year’s theme is Flip the Script on Aging.
CDA urges families to start open discussions about the support that older adults need to thrive. This month highlights the need for early conversations, focusing on independence, dignity, and the wealth of knowledge older Californians contribute to their communities.
CDA Director Susan DeMarois emphasizes that initiating these conversations is a sign of strength. “Older adults are vibrant, capable, contributing members of our communities. Let’s celebrate the possibilities that come with every new chapter of life,” she said.
California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) Secretary Kim Johnson notes that the best way to ensure independence as we age is through early conversations.
“Starting the conversation early is the best way to ensure independence and dignity as we age. It’s about empowering people with information and resources and helping them to thrive,” she said. These discussions are key to connecting older adults with valuable resources and information, empowering them to live with dignity.
As the state prepares for a significant demographic shift, by 2030, older adults will outnumber children under 18 for the first time. California’s groundbreaking Master Plan for Aging provides a strategic framework to support the growing senior population.
To help foster these intergenerational conversations, the CDA offers the Aging Resource Guide. The guide provides practical information on a range of topics, including fraud prevention, nutrition, caregiver support, disaster preparedness, and more. Californians can access the aging resource guide on the CDA’s website.
These Four Black Caucus Bills Clash With Key Aspects of Trump Admin Agenda
By Edward Henderson
California Black Media
Over the last four weeks, California Black Media (CBM) has been examining the 16 bills included in the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) “Road to Repair 2025 Priority Bill Package.” This week’s article looks at the last four bills in the series.
Each piece of legislation, authored by different members of the CLBC, is written as part of a broader umbrella package designed to repair “the generational harms caused by the cruel treatment of African American slaves in the United States.” However, the bills each include provisions that
stand in stark contrast to key aspects of the Trump administration policies which call for eliminating DEI in government and ethnic studies in schools as well as weakening criminal justice protections and pushing back against programs that level the playing field for descendants of enslaved people in the United States. Here is an overview of the four bills, a summary of what each one proposes and insights from each author.
Assembly Bill 766
Assembly Bill (AB) 766, introduced by Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins (D-San Diego), seeks to require all executive branch agencies to conduct periodic racial equity analyses
and develop programs to further advance racial equity.
“DEIA programs across the country are under attack,” said Sharp-Collins. “These critical programs expand opportunities but also ensure equity and access. AB 766 protects those programs in California and commits the state to ensuring fairness by requiring a racial equity review in all departmental rulemaking.”
The bill would require all agencies and departments subject to the Governor’s authority to undertake a racial equity analysis before implementing any budget or before any regulation takes effect. The bill would require the racial equity analysis to be undertaken by an appointed DEI officer.
On April 30, the Assembly Committee on Appropriations voted 15-5 to approve the bill but re-referred it for further examination by the committee members.
Assembly Bill 475 AB 475, introduced by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), seeks to require the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to develop voluntary work programs for inmates.
Provisions in the bill align with Wilson’s mission to advocate for incarcerated individuals’ rights when it comes to forced labor.
“This bill would no longer require CDCR to require each able-bodied inmate to work and, instead, would require CDCR to develop a voluntary work program and to prescribe rules and regulations regarding voluntary work assignments for CDCR inmates,” wrote Wilson in the bill text.
“Including the wages for work assignments and requiring wages for work assignments in county and city jail programs to be set.”
Last month, the Assembly Appropriations Committee voted 6-1 in favor of the bill before referring it to the suspense file.
SB 510
SB 510, introduced by Sen. Laura Richardson (D-Inglewood), seeks to require complete and
accurate K-12 curriculum regarding racial disparities, including impacts of segregation, slavery and systemic discrimination.
“SB 510, if passed, would ensure that California K-12 students have accurate teachings that reflect historical facts related to the treatment, struggles, and accomplishments of African Americans throughout our state’s history,” said Richardson.
The bill is similar to AB 1821, introduced by Assemblymember Ramos in 2024 that stated, “any instruction on the Spanish missions in California or the Gold Rush Era must also include instruction regarding the treatment of Native Americans during those periods.”
The Senate Appropriations Committee is currently reviewing the legislation.
AB 742 AB 742, introduced by Assemblymember Sade Elhawary (D-Los Angeles), seeks to designate descendants of American chattel slavery for priority when issuing professional licenses.
The bill is connected to SB 518, introduced by Senator Akilah Weber-Pierson, which establishes the Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery. The Bureau would be a state agency to verify lineage and facilitate access to reparations programs.
Once an individual’s lineage is established by the bureau, AB 742 would make the information a priority when issuing professional licenses, creating pathways towards economic opportunities. The bill’s introduction builds on the two main pillars of her political platform: restorative justice, and wellness equity.
“Change takes courage and community,” said Elhawary in a release. “And I intend to get right to work bringing people together and helping Californians keep a roof over their heads and food on the table, get their kids a good education, find family-sustaining jobs, become healthier, and live in safer neighborhoods.” On April 29, the Assembly Judiciary Committee voted 8-2 to advance the bill. It is currently under review in the Assembly Appropriations
Asm. Dr. LaShae-Sharp Collins (D-San Diego). Photos by Antonio Ray Harvey
Dodgers Riding High: Ohtani, Yamamoto
Shine as Kim Makes MLB Splash
Los Angeles Wins 8 of Last 10 with Help from New Talent and Record-Breaking Performances
By Earl Heath
Contributing Sports Writer
5, 2025; Miami,
loan-
Hyeseong Kim Makes Impressive Debut Newcomer Hyeseong Kim also made headlines this week. In Monday’s win over Miami, Kim went 2-for-4 with an RBI, scored a run, and stole a base in his first MLB start. After debuting as a pinch-runner on Sunday, Kim made an immediate impact. He singled and stole second in the fifth inning before
an amazing performance by Kim,” said Ohtani. “Really good, just overall. Even yesterday, as well. So I’m very happy for him.” Freddie Freeman added, “He can move around. He’s fast. He’s getting some hits. Made some adjustments from spring training. It’s nice to see that pay off for a guy getting his first hits in the big leagues. He could be a nice little weapon down there.” Kim was called up to replace Tommy Edman, who was placed on the injured list.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are on a roll, posting an 8-2 record over their last 10 games at press time. The hot streak includes series wins over Pittsburgh and Atlanta, along with a sweep of the Miami Marlins. In a recent game at LoanDepot Park, Shohei Ohtani made history yet again, becoming the first MLB player this season to reach double digits in both home runs and stolen bases. He tied the game in the sixth inning with a towering shot into the right-field upper deck — his 10th homer of the season. Ohtani, through 34 games, is on pace for a remarkable 47-home run, 47-stolen base season — historic numbers by any measure, though he’s already raised the bar with last year’s 50-50 campaign. That season ended with his third MVP award, a World Series title, and a near Triple Crown. Yamamoto Dominates Braves Against the Braves, Yoshinobu Yamamoto dazzled again, allowing just one hit through six scoreless innings. Mookie Betts chipped in with his fifth homer of the season, helping secure a 2-1 Dodgers win. Austin Riley broke up the no-hit bid with a sixth-inning double, but Yamamoto (4-2) still lowered his ERA to a league-best 0.90. Over seven starts, the right-hander has given up just four earned runs on 24 hits and 13 walks across 40 innings. He has not allowed more than five hits in any start this season. The stellar performance follows Yamamoto being named National League Pitcher of the Month for March/April — the first Dodger to earn the honor since Clayton Kershaw in April 2023. In six starts over the stretch, he posted a 1.06 ERA with 43 strikeouts in 34 innings.
Foster Pleased With Showcase Foster Pleased With Showcase
Earl Heath Contributing
Sports Writer
The Spring Showcase was a solid way to lean into the 2025 UCLA football season. There was plenty of anticipation after the way the Bruins finished last year.Coach DeShaun Foster liked what he saw during the few hours his players took the field in front of around 4,000 fans at the Rose Bowl.This spring, most of the talk was about former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava. He recently signed with UCLA and made his first public appearance with the program, watching from the sideline along with his younger brother, Madden Iamaleava, who is also expected to transfer to Westwood.With the Iamaleavas looking on, redshirt freshman quarterback Luke Duncan took snaps with both the first and second teams. He’s emerged as the top option among the Bruins’ remaining quarterbacks.“Luke had a really good
practice today,” said Foster. “Each day, you could tell he was getting better, getting more comfortable. There was a lot of outside noise, and he was still finding ways to focus on exactly what he needed to focus on, which was improving his play.”Redshirt senior quarterback Nick Billoups and redshirt junior defensive lineman Jacob Busic were also on the field. Both had entered the transfer portal just days earlier.The spring transfer window has made that more common. Roster changes can happen in the middle of practices, shifting roles and leading players to seek new opportunities.“It’s where college football is at,” said redshirt freshman linebacker Isaiah Chisom. “Everybody has to do what’s best for them, whatever that looks like. We don’t know the real stories behind what’s making people make these types of decisions.”The Bruins had several young players and transfers put on the blue and gold at the Rose Bowl for the first time.Wide
receiver Mikey Matthews, a sophomore transfer from Cal, and freshman running back Karson Cox each scored multiple touchdowns. Down the road, both will have to earn their minutes in two crowded position groups.The wide receiver room includes freshman Kwazi Gilmer, redshirt junior Titus Mokiao-Atimalala, and sophomore Rico Flores Jr., all of whom started at least four games last season and averaged over 28 yards per game.Matthews flashed some elusive speed.In the backfield, sophomore Jaivian Thomas (another Cal transfer) and junior Anthony Woods (from Idaho) brought new competition. Thomas led Cal with 626 rushing yards last season. Woods rushed for 1,131 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2023.“In any system, the offense at the beginning of the spring is going to be slower than the defense,” added Chisom. “Offenses are a little more technical and a little harder to get used to. But I mean, they’re the best we’ve seen. I
think today they had a really good practice.”Despite movement through the portal, the offense has kept building. Since the window opened on April 16, two quarterbacks, a running back, and a tight end have joined the Bruins. Meanwhile, four quarterbacks have left or are in the process of leaving.“Regardless of him (Nico Iamaleava) coming or Joey (former quarterback Joey Aguilar) leaving, as a team, we have done a really good job of honing in this spring and coming together as a team and working,” said redshirt sophomore offensive lineman Julian Armella.The Spring Showcase marked the Bruins’ final practice of the spring. Fall camp kicks off this summer.“They approached spring the right way,” said Foster. “Coming after the type of season that we had, these guys were eager to get out here and really try to find ways to better themselves as a team. I love the competition and how they competed, day in and day out.”
Despite Strong Regular Season, L.A. Bows Out in First Round Again
By Earl Heath Contributing
Sports Writer For the first time since 2020, Kawhi Leonard is entering the offseason healthy. But that may be the lone bright spot for the Los Angeles Clippers, who were eliminated in the first round of the NBA playoffs—again.The Clippers, the oldest team in the league, are placing their future in the hands of two-time Finals MVP Leonard and 10-time AllStar James Harden. Despite high expectations, they fell short in a Game 7 blowout against Denver.“We could have given a better effort, for sure,” said Leonard. “I don’t think this team is 30 points better than us. I mean, you’ve seen it throughout the first six games of the series. But you’ve got to give them credit.”Harden did his part in Game 6, dropping 28 points—including 17 in the second quarter— and logging over 46 minutes. But in Game 7, he couldn’t replicate the performance, finishing with just seven points on 2-for-8 shooting, despite dishing out 13 assists.Zubac’s Emergence, Missed OpportunitiesOne of the few consistent bright
spots was Ivica Zubac, who averaged 16 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists in the series. Yet many felt he should have been featured more in the offense.“There were times we should’ve gotten him the ball more. It could have changed things,” a team source noted.Looking AheadLeonard didn’t make his season debut until January due to inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee. He averaged 21.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in just under 32 minutes per game. He has two years remaining on his contract.“There’s another level for him that he’s going to get to next year,” said Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank. Speaking via video from New York due to a family medical issue, Frank expressed confidence in the team’s core.“I definitely believe in those two,” he said, referring to Leonard and Harden. “I think we can be better next year with more games from Kawhi.”Harden, originally brought in to complement Leonard and Paul George, shouldered much of the offensive load this season. He averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds while
appearing in 79 games.Unmet ExpectationsStill, the team failed to make it out of the first round for the third straight season. The Clippers finished 50-32 and secured the fifth seed in the ultracompetitive Western Conference. This was their debut season at the new Intuit Dome, where fans had high hopes for a deep playoff run.“Our players are embarrassed about Game 7, and they’re really, really upset that we lost the series,” said Frank. The franchise continues to distance itself from the destructive tenure of former owner Donald Sterling. Under Steve Ballmer’s leadership, the Clippers have been positioned to
May
Florida, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Hyeseong Kim (6) celebrates with teammates after the game against the Miami Marlins at
Depot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
James Harden walking off the court
(Courtesy Photo)
Cal transfer Mickey Matthews showed great moves in the BRUIN Show case.—Photo: Earl Heath
