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The Houston Rockets aggressively pursued championship contention in the 2025 NBA offseason, signaling a "win-now" approach by upgrading key positions without sacrificing their young core. Houston addressed three critical needs: a dominant perimeter scorer, a reliable 3-and-D wing, and playoff-tested center depth. The defining move was acquiring future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant, replacing Jalen Green. Durant significantly raises the offensive ceiling and brings playoff pedigree, despite risks associated with age and injury history. His fit with Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr. creates a legitimate "Big 3". Dorian Finney-Smith was brought in to replace Dillon Brooks. Finney-Smith offers more efficient shooting and a better contract than Brooks, fitting well into switch-heavy defenses without needing the ball. To bolster the frontcourt, Clint Capela replaces Jock Landale. Capela adds playoff experience, rim protection, rebounding, and stability, easing the load on Steven Adams and Sengun. These major additions cost the Rockets Cam Whitmore and the No. 10 draft pick, but the core of Thompson, Smith, Sengun, and Reed Sheppard remains intact. The Rockets' summer is viewed as impressive due to this balance between going all-in and maintaining future assets. The individual signings received the following grades: Clint Capela's acquisition was seen as a low-risk, high-floor move providing valuable playoff experience and rim protection as a backup or spot-starter. Dorian Finney-Smith's signing was graded as a smart, underrated pickup, offering defensive versatility and better spacing than Brooks, making him a valuable role player for playoff success.
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Drew Peterson, previously with the Boston Celtics, has signed a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets, as reported by Shams Charania. Hornets head coach Charles Lee, who previously coached Peterson as a Celtics assistant during the 2023-24 season, is believed to have influenced this move. This ends Peterson’s opportunity to potentially expand his role with the Celtics during Jayson Tatum’s extended absence. Peterson, an undrafted free agent from USC, appeared in 28 games across two seasons with Boston. In the 2024-25 season, he played 25 games (one start), averaging 7.4 minutes and 2.2 points per game. Despite limited playing time, he proved efficient as a three-point shooter, hitting 39.4% last season and maintaining a 42.1% career average from beyond the arc. He also demonstrated solid rebounding ability for a reserve forward, averaging 7.1 rebounds per 36 minutes. The Celtics face uncertainty in forward depth for the 2025-26 season, as Tatum is expected to miss most or all of it. While Sam Hauser remains and could start, the team added Georges Niang (trade) and Josh Minott (free agency), with Xavier Tillman, Miles Norris, and Torrey Craig also on the roster. Despite this thin depth, Peterson’s playing time in Boston was unlikely to increase significantly. Peterson’s two-way deal with Charlotte means he will likely split time between the NBA and the G League, earning a lower salary than a standard NBA contract. Meanwhile, the Celtics, amid potential cost-cutting, may focus on shedding salary rather than adding expensive talent, with a major roster-improvement move—such as pursuing a player like Damian Lillard—remaining a possibility.
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Tennessee Basketball is finalizing a loaded preseason schedule, including two exhibition games. Sources indicate the Vols are working on a road exhibition game at Michigan in October and will host Duke in an exhibition at Food City Center on October 26. This follows an NCAA rule change in January allowing two exhibitions against any four-year schools. Tennessee played exhibitions against Indiana (loss) last October and at Michigan State (win) in 2023. Historically, Tennessee holds an 8-8 record against Duke, winning the most recent matchup in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. They haven't hosted Duke since 1976. Against Michigan, the Vols are 5-7 and have lost the last four meetings, including three NCAA Tournament games (2011, 2014, 2022). The regular season opens on November 3rd against Mercer. Tennessee will then participate in the Players Era tournament in Las Vegas from November 24-27, facing Rutgers, Houston, and a third team. December starts with a road game at Syracuse in the ACC-SEC Challenge on December 2nd. Further non-conference games include Illinois in Nashville on December 6th, Louisville at home on December 16th (completing a home-and-home series), Gardner-Webb at home on December 21st, and South Carolina State at home on December 30th.
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Incoming Indiana University basketball guard Aleksa Ristic delivered another strong performance during the FIBA U20 Eurobasket in Heraklion, Greece. Playing for Serbia in the round of 16 against Ukraine on Wednesday, the 6-foot-4 guard recorded 12 points and 11 assists, contributing significantly to Serbia's 75-61 victory. Ristic also registered one steal and one block during his 31 minutes on the court, though he committed four turnovers. Serbia improved its tournament record to 4-0 with the win and advanced to the quarterfinals, where they will face Spain on Thursday. Offensively, Ristic shot 4-for-11 from the field, including 2-for-5 from beyond the three-point line. He was perfect from the free-throw line, making both of his attempts. Serbia outscored Ukraine by 13 points while Ristic was playing. Through four games at the tournament in Greece, Ristic is averaging 13.3 points and 7.8 assists in 30 minutes per game. He has been efficient from the foul line, making 11 of his 13 free-throw attempts. The 19-year-old Serbian is expected to join the IU basketball roster after the conclusion of the FIBA U20 Eurobasket tournament, which wraps up this Sunday.
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Bradley Beal has agreed to a buyout with the Phoenix Suns and immediately signed with the Los Angeles Clippers. While the Minnesota Timberwolves were reportedly interested and Beal seemingly addressed their needs for shot creation and playmaking, they ultimately missed out on acquiring him. However, missing Beal is viewed as potentially beneficial for the Timberwolves. Team president Tim Connelly emphasized the value of the team's continuity, indicating a plan to focus on rounding out the roster with depth pieces rather than pursuing big names like Beal. This approach is now solidified. Although Beal's skills fit key needs, integrating him could have taken time to gel with the existing core of Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle. His score-first style also raises questions about fit alongside Edwards, potentially leading to a slow start in a competitive Western Conference. Furthermore, Beal's presence would likely have hindered the development of young guards Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr., who are primed for bigger roles and can help fill the perimeter creation void. The Wolves have a well-rounded rotation and remain contenders without Beal. While fans might be disappointed, developing young players could be better for both the upcoming season and the team's future. Continuity provides a clear advantage, as evidenced by the team's strong finish last season after initially struggling to integrate Randle. With the core having a full season to adjust, the Wolves are positioned to improve without major offseason moves, making the decision not to shake up the core sensible.
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Singer-actress Coco Jones and NBA star Donovan Mitchell announced their engagement on Friday, July 14, 2025. They shared the news on social media, posting photos and videos that captured the moment Mitchell proposed by getting down on one knee. The engagement occurred at a tropical resort setting, characterized by palm trees, a lavish pool, and ocean views. This revelation surprised many fans, as Jones and Mitchell had previously kept the details of their relationship private and away from public scrutiny. A representative for the couple confirmed to PEOPLE that Mitchell proposed to Jones during a vacation, following two years of dating. The announcement was highlighted in a social media post by Mitchell.
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The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly showing interest in veteran center Al Horford to potentially fill one of their final roster spots. This interest comes despite the Bucks having recently re-signed Bobby Portis and Jericho Sims, and acquiring Myles Turner, which initially seemed to solidify their frontcourt. Horford, a 39-year-old center previously with the Boston Celtics, is unsigned and potentially seeking a new team or considering retirement. While the Warriors, Lakers, and Nuggets were earlier favorites, the Bucks and Hawks are now also rumored suitors. Signing Horford on a veteran's minimum contract is seen as an intriguing possibility for the Bucks. Offensively, his role would be limited to setting effective screens and making open three-point shots, skills he still possesses despite his age. Defensively, while showing some decline guarding the perimeter, he remains a solid interior defender and rim protector. Within the Bucks' rotation, Horford would not start and Bobby Portis would likely remain the first big man off the bench. His addition wouldn't completely eliminate opportunities for Jericho Sims, especially as Horford typically avoids playing both nights of back-to-backs. Horford would allow Portis to play primarily power forward off the bench. Horford and Sims would offer different options at backup center – Horford providing floor spacing and Sims providing athleticism and rim threat, depending on matchups. Overall, Horford's catch-and-shoot ability and still-serviceable defense are viewed as a good fit for Milwaukee. However, the report suggests it seems unlikely he ultimately becomes a Buck. The Bucks' interest in another big man as they finalize their roster is noted as interesting, but the outcome remains uncertain.
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Adem Bona, the Philadelphia 76ers center, expressed his high expectations for his second NBA season during an interview in Las Vegas. He highlighted his naturally loud and vocal presence on the court, especially defensively, which he considers essential as the team's anchor and rim protector. He emphasized using his voice to direct teammates and ensure understanding of game plans, particularly during a recent Summer League game where he felt it was needed. Bona reflected on the unexpected opportunity his rookie season provided. When Joel Embiid was ruled out for the remainder of the 2024-25 season in late February, Bona received significant playing time on a struggling Sixers team (24-58 record). Both Bona and the organization viewed this extended run as massively advantageous for his development, accelerating his learning curve despite the team's poor performance. While possessing a relentless motor, stellar length, and rare athleticism for his size, Bona acknowledged needing to adjust mentally to the NBA game. His focus areas included refining decision-making and becoming a more disciplined rim protector. Sixers President Daryl Morey confirmed that Bona's increased minutes, unusual for a rookie on a contending team, were a rare positive outcome of the season, allowing Bona to gain valuable experience and earn the coaching staff's confidence. Bona made noticeable strides towards the end of his rookie year. His defensive discipline improved dramatically, reducing foul trouble. He also progressed in making reads during offensive plays, like handling 4-on-3 situations after setting screens. Crucially, he developed significant confidence, both in his individual skills and in his understanding of his specific role within the team structure. Bona identified "patience" as the biggest lesson learned during his rookie year. He stressed the importance of staying ready while waiting for his opportunity, which came later in the season. He felt he capitalized on that chance and successfully learned and defined his role on the team, citing these as his two major takeaways from the experience.
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The adidas Anthony Edwards 1 Low basketball shoe is set to release in a new "Preloved Lime" colorway. This release follows the Minnesota Timberwolves' failure to reach the NBA Finals, meaning Anthony Edwards' second signature shoe (AE2) remains unrevealed for now. Inspired by Edwards' dedication and hard work, the "Preloved Lime" colorway features a vibrant Preloved Lime upper contrasted by Core Black elements on the TPU containment system, heels, and tongues, with Pure Teal branding accents. The Anthony Edwards 1 Low "Preloved Lime" will be available for purchase on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 3:00 a.m. EST. It will retail for $110 in adult sizes on adidas.com, select adidas stores, and select retailers. The shoe incorporates several performance technologies: a generative TPU support wing for stability and mid-foot breathability, new Light Boost cushioning for energy return without added weight, and an enlarged herringbone outsole for superior traction. While the eventual release of the adidas Anthony Edwards 2 is anticipated, the first signature model continues its successful run, inspiring self-belief and showcasing adidas Basketball's innovative design and technology.
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Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart are leading the New York Liberty through challenges in their championship defense, ranking fourth and fifth respectively in ESPN's mid-2025 season top 25 players list. New York is the only team with two players in the top five and one of three franchises, alongside Indiana and Phoenix, to have two players in the top 10. Stewart is averaging 19.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, matching her career-high from her 2023 debut, while showcasing new "Harry Potter"-inspired sneakers. ESPN analyst Michael Voepel notes her consistency, including double-figure scoring in all but one game, strong two-point shooting at 53.6%, and top-five league win shares, emphasizing her crucial role if the Liberty repeat as champions. Ionescu, now the Liberty's all-time leader in three-pointers, is averaging a career-best 18.8 points and refining her mid-range game. ESPN's Kendra Andrews highlights her ability to take over offensively when needed, with her intensity and efficiency proving vital during an injury-plagued season. The top three players in ESPN's ranking are Napheesa Collier (Minnesota) at number one, A'ja Wilson (Las Vegas) at number two, and Alyssa Thomas rounding out the trio. Both Ionescu and Stewart will participate in the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis on separate teams and have one final regular-season game together against the Indiana Fever on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET.
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The article features an interview with New York Liberty basketball player Breanna Stewart discussing her essential everyday products. She emphasizes the importance of Color Wow hair spray in her game-day routine, specifically for creating a secure, slick top knot that withstands intense activity despite her thick hair. Stewart expresses a long-standing loyalty to Versace Bright Crystal perfume, appreciating its balanced floral scent that isn't overly girly. She applies it before walking onto the court and again at halftime, stating it makes her feel like herself and she dislikes alternatives. Her essential travel toiletry bag, kept at Barclays Center and taken on the road, contains her Color Wow hair spray, basic brushes from stores like CVS or Target, Supergoop! face lotion, her Versace perfume, and Native Cucumber & Mint deodorant, which she likes for its cucumber scent. Stewart enjoys reading mystery thrillers, particularly books by Frieda McFadden, starting with "The Housemaid" series. She reads extensively on airplanes while traveling without her kids. Her team also has a book club, recently finishing "The Silent Patient," where members discuss the books during travel, enjoying the different perspectives shared. While not her everyday cleanser, Stewart relies on the Clinique cleansing balm to effectively remove heavy makeup after events or appearances, finding it especially helpful for stubborn mascara without excessive effort, much to her wife Marta's amusement.
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The Memphis Grizzlies and second-year guard Cam Spencer initially agreed to a two-year, $4.5 million fully guaranteed contract last month, following his strong performance on a two-way contract during his rookie season. This agreement was reported by ESPN's Shams Charania but was never officially announced by the franchise. The Grizzlies and Spencer later renegotiated the terms, resulting in a new four-year, $10.5 million contract. According to Charania, this deal includes three fully guaranteed seasons, granting Spencer an extra year of guaranteed money and the team an option to extend him for a fourth season. This restructuring may indicate that Spencer is expected to compete for a rotation spot off the bench in the upcoming season. Last season, in 25 games, he averaged 4.2 points, 1.4 assists, and 1.2 rebounds while shooting 41.5% from the field.
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The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons defeated the La Salle Green Archers 83-78 in the semifinals of the Filoil EcoOil 18th Preseason Cup. UP battled back for most of the game, trailing by one point (72-73) with under two minutes remaining. Rey Remogat then hit a crucial three-pointer to put UP ahead 75-73 with one minute left. After a defensive stop, Remogat sank another three-pointer over Jacob Cortez, extending the lead to 78-73 with 23 seconds to go. Remogat, who had struggled earlier (1-of-11 from deep before the clutch shots), credited his coaches and teammates for maintaining confidence in him. Despite Vhoris Marasigan bringing La Salle within two points, Gerry Abadiano responded with a free throw and a fastbreak layup to push UP's lead back to 81-75. Although La Salle's Kean Baclaan hit a three-pointer to cut the deficit to three, time ran out as Abadiano sealed the UP victory with two free throws. Remogat led UP with 14 points, while Abadiano and Jalen Stevens added 12 points each, helping UP overcome a 15-point first-half deficit (28-43). UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde emphasized the need for increased effort and energy after halftime. For La Salle, Jacob Cortez scored 16 points with six rebounds, and Kean Baclaan had 14 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. UP will face the National University (NU) Bulldogs in the Finals for the ECJ Perpetual Trophy. NU, the fourth seed with a 3-3 elimination round record, upset the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers 96-84 in the other semifinal. NU trailed by 14 points early in the third quarter but mounted a 29-11 run, fueled by 12 close-range points, to take a 72-68 lead late in the quarter. Head coach Jeff Napa stated the focus at halftime was simply to play their game and stick to their strengths in the second half. UST could only get as close as eight points down afterward, as NU leveraged their size advantage to dominate inside scoring (44-36 edge).
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The Detroit Pistons, lacking depth behind power forward Tobias Harris who is on an expiring contract next season, are anticipated to seek his replacement and could pursue a trade at next year's deadline, similar to their acquisition of Dennis Schroder last season which aided their playoff push. Potential targets include players approaching free agency in 2026 who could provide an impact for a potential Pistons playoff run. Among the options, Jarace Walker of the Indiana Pacers is noted. Following significant roster changes for the Pacers (including Tyrese Haliburton's injury and Myles Turner's departure in free agency), Walker's future is uncertain. The Pacers hold a team option on Walker by the end of October; if not picked up, he could become inexpensive depth for the Pistons, having averaged six points and three rebounds while shooting 40% from three-point range on limited attempts last season. The article also questions Pascal Siakam's situation with the Pacers, wondering if the team will pay him $45 million during a potential "gap year." While acknowledging Siakam's proven high-level performance, it expresses uncertainty about whether the Pistons would want his contract. Other potential power forward targets mentioned include Tari Eason of the Houston Rockets, who will face increased competition for minutes and is heading towards restricted free agency unless extended. Eason is seen as a culture fit aligned with Detroit's core timeline. P.J. Washington of the Dallas Mavericks is highlighted as a tough defender capable of playing both big man spots and spacing the floor, fitting a Pistons need. Although Washington is on an expiring contract and Dallas wants to win, underperformance could make him available via trade, potentially fitting into a Pistons trade exception.
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The Memphis Grizzlies traded Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four first-round draft picks (2025, 2026, 2028, 2030). Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant expressed shock upon learning of the trade, initially believing it was fake. He stated the move was best for both teams, believing Bane is the missing piece for the talented Orlando Magic and complements players like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. CBS Sports ranked the Bane acquisition as the No. 2 move of the offseason, highlighting him as the perfect scoring and shooting threat Orlando needed, especially for kick-outs when Banchero and Wagner drive. While losing Bane, the Grizzlies secured a five-year maximum contract extension worth approximately $240 million (with a 2029-30 player option) for star player Jaren Jackson Jr. Morant strongly endorsed the extension, calling Jackson Jr. the heart of Memphis and the team, though he admitted he didn't understand the salary cap details and thought Jackson deserved even more. Morant also commented on the incoming players. He emphasized the importance of veteran presence Caldwell-Pope brings, particularly for his defensive prowess and mentorship value for the Grizzlies' young players. He noted that playing next to a playmaker like himself could help Caldwell-Pope return to his previous shooting form after a dip last season. The team also bought out Cole Anthony's contract to create additional salary cap space. Caldwell-Pope's potential role includes offering key leadership and possibly mentoring young player Jaylen Wells as Memphis develops its next generation of talent.
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Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury is being compared to her teammate Diana Taurasi as the heir apparent in trash-talking within the WNBA, despite playing different positions, due to their shared intense and ferocious on-court demeanor that gets under opponents' skin. This recognition stems from an anonymous poll conducted by The Athletic and reported by Sabreena Merchant and Ben Pickman, where WNBA players voted Thomas as the league's top trash-talker with 13 votes, significantly ahead of Courtney Williams in second place with 5 votes, Marina Mabrey with 4 votes, and Skylar Diggins-Smith with 2 votes. Anonymous player quotes highlighted Thomas's distinctive and pervasive trash-talking style, describing her as smiling while engaging in "psycho stuff," with one noting her reputation is well-known across the league and another emphasizing she talks trash even to players not directly guarding her, always having "something" to say.
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The Los Angeles Lakers have decisively shifted their focus towards building their future around superstar Luka Doncic, moving away from an era centered on LeBron James. This strategic pivot was solidified by their blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks to acquire Doncic. James, entering the final year of his contract, has recently been the subject of significant trade rumors. Doncic is positioned as the long-term cornerstone of the Lakers franchise. While critiques about his conditioning from last season existed, he has been rigorously working throughout the NBA offseason. This effort became evident during a recent public appearance in Greece, where his noticeably slimmer physical appearance generated considerable buzz within the NBA community. The dramatic change in Doncic's physique quickly sparked reactions from fans online. Comments ranged from surprise that he hadn't achieved this peak shape earlier, to praise for Lakers GM Rob Pelinka for acquiring him, dubbing Doncic the "new slim reaper." Many fans expressed high expectations, declaring him the MVP and stating the league is unprepared for his impending dominance.
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The Golden State Warriors are seeking veteran players to bolster their roster, focusing on smaller free agent moves rather than major signings. Beyond previously linked players Al Horford and De'Anthony Melton, the team has also shown interest in Malcolm Brogdon, Trey Lyles, and Gary Payton II, with Seth Curry and Ben Simmons emerging as additional potential targets during Summer League discussions. A potential signing of Malcolm Brogdon is highlighted as a particularly beneficial move for the Warriors. They require additional ball-handlers, and Brogdon would serve as a solid backup point guard for Stephen Curry. Last season with the Washington Wizards, he averaged 12.7 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game, though his season was limited to just 24 appearances. Given Brogdon's significant injury history – playing over 65 games only once since his rookie year – a deal would realistically only make sense at the veteran minimum salary, as his reliability is questionable. However, if healthy, he fits well within the Warriors' system. The team has a recent track record of helping injury-prone players like Otto Porter Jr. and Donte DiVincenzo bounce back, suggesting Brogdon could become a valuable signing under similar circumstances.
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The Boston Celtics have faced significant challenges this offseason, trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis due to salary cap constraints. Additionally, star player Jayson Tatum is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025-26 NBA season after suffering a torn Achilles. Amidst this uncertainty, the Celtics have reportedly shown interest in star free agent point guard Damian Lillard, who was surprisingly waived by the Milwaukee Bucks to create cap space. Lillard, also recovering from a torn Achilles, has attracted attention from multiple contending teams. Boston's pursuit of Lillard is fueled in part by his close friendship with Tatum. Reports confirm that Tatum is actively recruiting Lillard to join the Celtics. Signing with Boston presents a logical scenario for Lillard, as the Celtics could offer him a two-year contract without immediate pressure to return in the first season. The team's strategy appears to focus on getting both Lillard and Tatum fully healthy simultaneously, potentially aligning their prime playing window for the 2026-27 season, even if they return partially during 2025-26. Acquiring Lillard would add a proven superstar to the Celtics' roster.
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The Golden State Warriors are expected to re-sign Jonathan Kuminga during the 2025 NBA offseason, but with the intention of subsequently trading him. The article suggests the Warriors should proactively seek trade partners, identifying the Cleveland Cavaliers as an ideal destination. The Cavaliers, despite having the best regular-season record, struggled to maintain consistent production in the playoffs. Adding players who can elevate their postseason performance is deemed crucial, especially with star Donovan Mitchell in his prime but facing free agency next offseason. Kuminga is presented as an ideal fit for Cleveland's needs. Kuminga, coming off a season averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, possesses significant two-way potential and versatility. The article argues his play style could blend well with Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley. While his development was somewhat stalled in Steve Kerr's rotation in Golden State, the right system focused on his growth could unlock further potential. A key factor facilitating a potential trade is the presence of Kenny Atkinson, now the Cavaliers' head coach, who previously worked with Kuminga on the Warriors' staff. Atkinson understands Kuminga's potential and could view him as a future All-Star to build around. For the Warriors, the article proposes trading Kuminga to Cleveland for center Jarrett Allen, who would address their frontcourt issues and provide needed rim protection alongside stars Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler.
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During a New York Liberty WNBA game, Breanna Stewart used her significant wingspan to trap Atlanta Dream's Allisha Gray near the sideline. An off-balance Gray, unable to find a pass, stepped out of bounds, leading to her bouncing the ball in frustration and receiving a technical foul, which energized the Barclays Center crowd. The Liberty trailed by 11 points at halftime, appearing lethargic and disjointed in the first half. However, a significant third-quarter resurgence, fueled by Stewart's rebounding, defense, and scoring, alongside Leonie Fiebich's timely three-pointers and aggressive shot-hunting, propelled them to a 79-72 victory. Leonie Fiebich was crucial to the win. Responding to calls from coaches, players, and fans to shoot more, she drained back-to-back three-pointers in the third quarter to give the Liberty their first lead since the opening period. Fiebich finished with a regular-season career-high 21 points on highly efficient 8-of-9 shooting (4-for-5 from three-point range), adding four rebounds and four assists. Breanna Stewart, playing multiple positions, recorded her fourth double-double of the season with 18 points and 10 rebounds. The team's second-half performance marked a complete turnaround from the first half, featuring improved communication on defense, aggressive rebounding, and better shot-making. Liberty coach Sandy Brondello expressed dissatisfaction with the first-half effort, citing a lack of grit and energy after four days off. She emphasized a halftime reset, demanding discipline in executing the game plan and relentless effort, confidently stating they would win the game. Player Sabrina Ionescu highlighted the importance of securing wins while awaiting Jonquel Jones' return.
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The New York Liberty, led by Breanna Stewart and Leonie Fiebich, staged a remarkable 19-point comeback to defeat the Atlanta Dream. Trailing 34-15 midway through the second quarter due to strong play from Atlanta's Brittney Griner, Allisha Gray, and Maya Caldwell, the Liberty surged back. Stewart and Fiebich powered the rally, with New York outscoring Atlanta 48-30 over the final 20 minutes to secure the victory at home. Despite shooting poorly overall (38.5% from the field, 32.1% from three-point range), the Liberty compensated effectively. They generated 24 assists and forced Atlanta into 15 turnovers. Stewart recorded a double-double with 18 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocks. Fiebich led the team in scoring with 21 points and added four rebounds. Sabrina Ionescu contributed nine points and five assists. This comeback win improves the Liberty's record to 14-6, solidifying their top position in the Eastern Conference standings. They now hold a 1.5-game lead over the Dream and a 3.5-game lead over the Indiana Fever. Riding a two-game win streak, the Liberty remain at home for their next two games, hosting the Indiana Fever on July 16th at 7:30 p.m. ET and again on July 22nd at 8 p.m. ET.
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The Los Angeles Lakers are pursuing low-cost roster improvements to preserve cap space for major 2026 and 2027 offseason moves centered around acquiring Luka Dončić. After missing out on centers Clint Capela (Houston Rockets) and Brook Lopez (LA Clippers), they secured Deandre Ayton via buyout following his departure from the Portland Trail Blazers. The LA Clippers, having signed Lopez, are now frontrunners to acquire shooting guard Bradley Beal from the Phoenix Suns. Insiders predict Phoenix will waive Beal and stretch his remaining $110 million contract across multiple years, making him a free agent. ESPN’s Zach Lowe stated on July 10 that Beal will likely be waived imminently and sign with the Clippers. Beal has drawn interest from multiple teams including the Lakers, Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks, and Minnesota Timberwolves. His projected $5.3 million salary for 2025-26—a result of the contract-stretch provision—makes him highly valuable in the current market, particularly to the Clippers who retain $14.1 million in mid-level exception funds after signing Lopez. For Phoenix to stretch Beal’s contract, he must forfeit at least $13.8 million in a buyout agreement. Recognizing limited free-agency money, Beal is expected to seek a two-year deal with a player option for the second season, enabling him to re-enter the market in 2026 for a more lucrative contract.
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The Philadelphia 76ers' decision to re-sign Kyle Lowry to a one-year deal is described as puzzling and disappointing to fans and analysts. Despite signs pointing to this move, the rationale for choosing Lowry over other available backcourt options, like De'Anthony Melton who was seen as having more to offer, remains unclear. The article questions the logic of relying on Lowry, a six-time All-Star whose recent performance was considered poor enough to warrant retirement, as the emergency playmaker off the bench. This decision had a direct negative consequence for Jared Butler. The 76ers declined Butler's team option specifically to create roster space for Lowry (and Eric Gordon). As a result, Butler, who would have been entering his fifth NBA season, is currently without a team. He is not even playing on a Summer League roster, and with most teams finalizing their rosters for the upcoming season, his chances of finding a new NBA team are seen as increasingly difficult. The article highlights that Butler showed promise during his brief time with the 76ers last season after arriving from Washington. Averaging 11.5 points and 4.9 assists in 24.4 minutes per game, with shooting percentages of nearly 43% from the field and 35.2% from three-point range, he presented a solid option as a third-string point guard. However, the front office prioritized veteran presence and locker room influence over Butler's on-court contributions. From a purely basketball perspective, the choice of Lowry over Butler is deemed illogical. While acknowledging Butler's inconsistency, the article argues he currently offers a more robust skill set than Lowry at this stage of their careers. The 76ers' choice is portrayed as potentially devastating for Butler, with his current unrostered status and the approaching 2025-26 season potentially signaling the end of his NBA career.
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WNBA star Angel Reese has been named the cover athlete for the NBA 2K26 WNBA Edition video game and simultaneously previewed her first signature shoe, the Reebok Angel Reese 1, on the cover. The reveal occurred on July 9th. Sabrina Ionescu, the New York Liberty guard who was the cover athlete for the 2024 WNBA edition of NBA 2K, publicly praised Reese for these honors. Ionescu emphasized the global significance and anticipation surrounding the 2K cover, stating she was "really happy" for Reese to "get her flowers so early on in her career." She recalled how meaningful her own cover moment was. Reese's cover image features her driving to the basket wearing her signature shoes. Reebok had announced her multi-year shoe deal extension in October 2024. On July 9th, Reebok also unveiled the "Diamond Dust" colorway of the Angel Reese 1, though an official release date is not yet set. Ionescu called the dual announcement "iconic," describing it as "knocking two birds with one stone" to showcase the shoe Reese worked on for a long time. She expressed enthusiasm about seeing more WNBA players receive signature shoes, affirming Reese is "well deserved" of the honor. The article notes this trend, mentioning Las Vegas Aces' A'ja Wilson (Nike), Ionescu's Liberty teammate Breanna Stewart (Puma), and Ionescu herself, who is releasing her third Nike signature shoe (Sabrina 3s) on July 24th. Ionescu is recognized for consistently praising the new generation of WNBA players, including Caitlin Clark and Sonia Citron. This is highlighted as the upcoming July 19th WNBA All-Star Game will feature three rookies for the first time since 2011. Ionescu will play alongside Citron and Kiki Iriafen on Team Clark, while Reese (a second-year player) and Paige Bueckers will play for Team Collier. The summary concludes by noting Ionescu, the 2020 WNBA Draft's first overall pick, is entering her prime at 27 years old. Coming off her first WNBA Championship in 2024 and career highs in points and steals, she has secured a starting spot in the All-Star Game.
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The Phoenix Mercury franchise has featured impactful players who hold significant records, with Diana Taurasi being the franchise's and WNBA's all-time leading scorer. Penny Taylor holds the Mercury's franchise record for career 3-point percentage at 40%. She began her WNBA career with the Cleveland Rockers in 2001 before joining Phoenix as the first pick in the 2004 dispersal draft after Cleveland folded. In her first season with Phoenix (2004), Taylor averaged 13.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and shot nearly 43% from three-point range. Her 2005 stats were similar, averaging 13.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.3 steals, and 40% from deep. Playing for the Mercury from 2004 to 2016, Taylor peaked during their first championship season, averaging 17.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.5 steals, and nearly 38% from three. She shot 40% or better from three-point range in six of her ten Phoenix seasons and was consistently close to that mark in others. Taylor remains the franchise's all-time leader in 3-point percentage and ranks third in total 3-pointers made (316) behind Taurasi (1,447) and DeWanna Bonner (373). Her percentage record is likely to endure as no active Mercury players on the franchise's top three-point list remain with the team.
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