BREAKING: Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic sounds off on Jeff Van Gundy incident that got him roasted

| Sport
April 20, 2025

Nikola Jokic and Jeff Van Gundy got into it on the sideline on Saturday.

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) at the free throw line during overtime against the LA Clippers at Ball Arena.

Much of the noise coming into the highly-anticipated first round series between the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Clippers was that the Clippers had the better team, but the Nuggets still have the best player on the court.

That was on display in Saturday’s epic Game 1, won by the Nuggets 112-110 in overtime in front of a raucous Denver crowd. The Clippers got contributions from plenty of players during the game, but Jokic’s brilliance helped the Nuggets get the win.

One of the funnier moments from Saturday’s contest came late in the game. Jokic likes to get the ball from the official quickly when it goes out of bounds to the Nuggets in order to inbound the ball as fast as possible. Former ESPN broadcaster and current Clippers assistant coach Jeff Van Gundy didn’t want Jokic to get the advantage, so the two struggled over the ball for a few seconds.

Jokic was understandably frustrated with the moment, and he sounded off on it after the game via ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne.

“I think definitely it’s not supposed to happen,” Jokic said, per Shelburne. “The NBA wants to make a quick speed game. Inbound the ball quicker … that’s what they emphasized when they came before the season. They said sometimes when I take my shoes and this and that, I can steal a couple seconds, and they said I cannot do that anymore. But seems like they can do it.”

Related Denver Nuggets NewsArticle continues below

Jokic ended up with the last laugh in the end as the Nuggets made just a few more plays than the Clippers did in the end.

This isn’t the first time that Jokic has gotten into a spat with an opposing staffer in the playoffs over the ball. During the second round in 2023, Jokic and Suns owner Mat Ishbia also fought over the basketball and sparked plenty of discussion around the league.

During the regular season this year, Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault tried to stop Jokic from inbounding the ball so quickly by permanently keeping a sub at the scorer’s table but opting not to put him into the game.

It’s clear that Nuggets opponents are trying anything they can to slow Jokic down and limit the advantages that he can create with his basketball IQ. We’ll see if Van Gundy and the Clippers have any more tricks up their sleeve for him over the next few weeks.

Review: Top 10 Healthcare Services in the USA

The U.S. healthcare industry is a complex ecosystem of providers, insurers, and technology-driven services, delivering critical care to millions. In 2025, the sector is shaped by rising costs (projected at $4.9 trillion in 2023), technological innovation, and a focus on patient-centric care. Below is a detailed review of the top 10 healthcare services in the USA, based on market presence, patient outcomes, and industry impact.

1. HCA Healthcare

HCA Healthcare, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is the largest health system, operating 220 hospitals and over 40,000 staffed beds across 20 states. Known for comprehensive services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty treatments, it generates significant net patient revenue. Its scale and advanced technology adoption ensure high-quality care, though accessibility varies by region.

2. Universal Health Services (UHS)

UHS manages 183 hospitals across 40 states, with over 21,000 beds, focusing on acute care and behavioral health. Its facilities in Texas, Florida, and California provide diverse services, from trauma care to psychiatric treatment. UHS’s emphasis on mental health integration aligns with 2025 trends, though high costs can be a barrier.

3. Encompass Health Corporation

With 164 hospitals, Encompass is the largest operator of rehabilitation hospitals, offering specialized post-acute care for stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury patients. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, it operates in 37 states, delivering measurable outcomes through therapy-focused programs. Its niche focus limits broader service scope.

4. CommonSpirit Health

A Catholic-affiliated system with 142 hospitals, CommonSpirit provides acute care, outpatient services, and telehealth across 21 states. It excels in community health programs and equitable access, serving underserved populations. Its integration of AI for diagnostics enhances efficiency, but merger-related challenges can affect consistency.

5. Ascension Health

Ascension operates 139 hospitals, focusing on primary care, oncology, and cardiology. With a mission-driven approach, it serves low-income communities through charity care programs. Its adoption of value-based care (VBC) models, projected to cover 90 million lives by 2027, improves outcomes but faces staffing shortages.

6. Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is a leading integrated healthcare provider, combining insurance and care delivery for 12.5 million members. Its ACA marketplace plans are top-rated for affordability and quality, with low deductibles and strong preventive care. Operating in eight states, its HMO model ensures coordinated care but limits patient choice.

7. Aetna (CVS Health)

Aetna, under CVS Health, provides health insurance and healthcare services, covering 39 million lives. Its ACA plans offer competitive premiums and broad networks, with telehealth and pharmacy integration via CVS. Aetna’s focus on chronic disease management and AI-driven care navigation boosts outcomes, though rural access is limited.

8. Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minnesota, is renowned for specialized care in oncology, cardiology, and neurology. With 70,000 staff and three major campuses, it serves 1.3 million patients annually. Its research-driven approach and high patient satisfaction earn it top rankings, but costs and geographic reach are drawbacks.

9. Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic, with 23 hospitals, is a leader in cardiac care and medical innovation, serving patients across Ohio, Florida, and Nevada. Its adoption of cloud computing and AI for diagnostics enhances precision medicine. High costs and limited national presence restrict accessibility for some.

10. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

BCBS, a federation of 34 independent companies, insures 115 million Americans, offering PPO, HMO, and EPO plans. Its ACA marketplace plans are widely available, with strong provider networks and wellness programs. BCBS’s focus on digital health tools and equitable access is notable, though premiums vary by state.

Choosing the Right Service

Selecting a healthcare service depends on location, medical needs, and budget. HCA and UHS offer broad hospital-based care, while Kaiser and Aetna excel in integrated insurance and delivery. Mayo and Cleveland Clinic are ideal for specialized treatments, and BCBS provides flexible insurance options. Compare costs (e.g., average ACA premium: $635/month), provider networks, and patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or U.S. News. With 26 million uninsured Americans and rising costs, prioritize services with telehealth, preventive care, and VBC to maximize value.

Related Posts