Daily News – July 23, 2016

**NOTE: The news clips and articles listed don’t necessarily reflect the views or beliefs of the Cleveland Cavaliers or their Basketball Operations staff, partners, or sponsors.**

Kyrie Irving, Team USA win first exhibition game against Argentina, 111-74 Author: Chris Fedor Publication: Cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Team USA cruised to a win over Argentina, 111-74, in its first of five exhibition games in preparation for the 2016 Olympics.

Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving got the starting nod alongside Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony and DeMarcus Cousins.

Irving played 22 minutes and scored nine points on 3-of-8 from the field, including 1-of-4 from 3-point range. Irving also grabbed four rebounds and dished out a team-high six assists, including the helper that led to the United States’ first basket, a Durant breakaway dunk. – CLICK HERE to read full story.

Cavaliers have Terry Talkin’ LeBron James, Birdman and summer league Author: Terry Pluto Publication: Cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio — 1. The Cavs are thrilled to sign Chris “Birdman” Andersen to a one-year contract for the veteran’s minimum. They have been looking for another big man who has the energy of Anderson Varejao and Tristan Thompson. That’s the Birdman, who loves to set picks and defend players inside. He is in constant motion.

2. Like Varejao or Matthew Dellavedova, when Birdman is on your team — you love him. When the 6-foot-10, 245-pounder is on the other team — you think he’s a dirty player.

3. LeBron James loves playing with Birdman. They were together for almost two full seasons in Miami. When the Heat won the 2013 title, the Birdman rarely missed a shot in the playoffs. He was 46-of-57, .807 from the field. Most were dunks and tip-ins, exactly the kind of shots a hustling big man should make. – CLICK HERE to read full story.

Anderson signs deal with Cavaliers Author: Brian Dulik Publication: Medina Gazette

CLEVELAND — Colorful center Chris “Birdman” Andersen is officially a member of the Cavaliers.

The 6-foot-10, 245-pounder signed a one-year, $1.55 million contract Friday, accepting the veteran’s minimum salary to join the NBA champions. He made $5.19 million last season while playing for Memphis and Miami.

Andersen takes over the roster spot — and backup pivot role – that was held by Timofey Mozgov, who left Cleveland in free agency for the Los Angeles Lakers. He is expected to spell center Tristan Thompson and power forward Kevin Love in the post. – CLICK HERE to read full story.

Tuneup? US appears plenty ready to roll Author: Sam Amico Publication: Amicohoops.net

Well, Paul George sure looks OK. And it was only an exhibition, but the rest of the world had better watch out.

That’s the story on the United States Olympic basketball team after a 111-74 hammer job of Argentina in an Olympic tuneup Friday.

Team USA led by as many as 41. Argentina led briefly, too — by one. – CLICK HERE to read full story.

Gabriel eyes spot on Cavs with improved J Author: Sam Amico Publication: Amico Hoops

There was a time when the book on Kenny Gabriel read like this: He can’t shoot.

True or not, Gabriel decided to do something about it. He decided to get the keys to the gym.

More specifically, Gabriel got the keys to the gym at Cedar Hill High School in Dallas. His wife’s godmother is a teacher there. – CLICK HERE to read full story.

LeBron’s motivation burning hot as he stares into Warriors’ spotlight Author: Bill Reiter Publication: CBS Sports

Somewhere, it’s all LeBron James hears:

Kevin Durant Kevin Durant Kevin Durant Kevin Durant Kevin Durant Kevin Durant Kevin Durant Kevin Durant …

Somewhere, LeBron James is steaming. – CLICK HERE to read full story.

Cavaliers officially sign free agent Chris “Birdman” Andersen to one-year contract Author: Associated Press Publication: Pro Basketball Talk

CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cavaliers have officially signed veteran forward Chris “Birdman” Andersen to a one-year contract.

The NBA champions needed a backup center after losing Timofey Mozgov in free agency and are hoping the 38-year-old Andersen can fill that role. A 14-year veteran, Andersen, known for his multiple tattoos and toughness on the boards, split last season with Miami and Memphis. – CLICK HERE to read full story.

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