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TOPPistons Legend Compares Chaz Lanier to 2-Time NBA All-Star
The Detroit Pistons enter the upcoming season with only one new draft addition: Chaz Lanier, selected in the early second round. This occurred after the team lost its first-round pick to the Minnesota Timberwolves due to playoff outcomes and the loss of draft pick protection. The Pistons' interest in Lanier was widely known prior to the draft, as the high-volume three-point shooter from Tennessee was viewed as a logical fit for the team. They ultimately chose him with their sole pick, earning approval from franchise legend Isiah Thomas. Thomas publicly compared Lanier to former NBA All-Star Allan Houston, specifically praising Lanier's shooting style during a Summer League broadcast, noting similarities in their smooth strokes and even pointing out that Lanier wears Houston's former number 20. Allan Houston, also a Tennessee standout, was drafted by the Pistons in 1993 and played his first three NBA seasons in Detroit before signing with the New York Knicks, where he spent nine seasons. Houston averaged 17 points per game with 40% three-point shooting across 839 regular-season games and 19 points with 42% three-point shooting in playoff appearances. While acknowledging Lanier has significant development ahead to reach Houston's two-time All-Star level, Thomas's comparison is considered solid, especially within the Detroit context. Lanier transferred to Tennessee after four seasons at North Florida, averaging 18 points per game and shooting 40% from three-point range in 38 games during his final collegiate season.
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TOPMilwaukee Bucks: Recently Waived Wing Defender Is Absolutely Not the Small Forward This Team Needs
The Milwaukee Bucks still need a starting-caliber small forward or a reliable wing defender, but the article argues they should avoid signing recently waived Charlotte Hornets player Josh Okogie. While Okogie, a seven-year veteran known for his on-ball defense despite being undersized for a wing at 6-foot-4, is available for the veteran's minimum, he is deemed a poor fit for the Bucks. The article outlines several reasons against signing Okogie. Firstly, the Bucks already possess multiple guards and forwards around his height (like Gary Trent Jr., Kevin Porter Jr., Andre Jackson Jr.) who can defend shooting guards or smaller small forwards, but lack true wing-sized players beyond Jackson and Trent. Okogie himself is considered closer to a shooting guard than a small forward. Secondly, Okogie is described as a "terrible shooter," citing inconsistent performance and a career three-point percentage of 29.9%, which would exacerbate the Bucks' existing offensive limitations with players like Andre Jackson. Thirdly, he offers little facilitation ability. Signing the 27-year-old Okogie would likely require cutting another player, probably Jackson, who has a similar defensive profile but is younger. Despite Okogie's potential availability and defensive reputation fitting a surface need, the article concludes that his specific shortcomings in size, shooting, and offensive versatility give the Bucks no good reason to pursue him, advising Milwaukee to steer clear.
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2025/26 NBA Roster Counts
NBA teams are permitted to carry up to 21 players during the offseason, exceeding the regular season limit of 15 players. This expanded roster allows teams to sign players to non-guaranteed contracts, providing opportunities for those players to earn a regular season spot or be evaluated before potential assignment to the G League affiliate. In addition to the standard 15-man roster, NBA teams can also have up to three players on two-way contracts. These two-way players grant the team NBA rights to extra players, although they typically spend significant time in the G League. Crucially, while two-way players do not count against the 15-man regular season roster limit, they are included within the 21-man offseason roster limit. The article states that roster counts for all NBA teams will be tracked throughout the 2025 offseason and the 2025/26 season, categorizing players into specific groups. A list of team roster counts for the 2025/26 season is being maintained and updated, with the latest update provided as July 16, 2025, at 10:35 am CT, listing several teams starting from the Atlanta Hawks through the Golden State Warriors.
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Capital1 Solar Spikers ink PVL top rookie pick UAAP MVP Bella Belen
MHICAELA "BELLA" BELEN has officially signed with the Capital1 Solar Spikers volleyball team. The signing was confirmed on Wednesday when Capital1 co-owner Milka Romero announced the news on social media, welcoming Belen, the top overall Premier Volleyball League (PVL) rookie pick this year, to the "Capital1 family". While specific contract details were not disclosed, Belen, a three-time UAAP champion and MVP from National University, is reported to receive a minimum three-year contract with a monthly salary of at least ₱165,000. Belen's debut for the Solar Spikers will be delayed, however, as she will only be able to suit up for the team starting in October this year due to her commitments to the Alas Pilipinas national team.
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4 Potential Landing Spots For Josh Okogie, Including 2 Western Powerhouses
The Charlotte Hornets waived Josh Okogie, making him an unrestricted free agent and creating an opportunity for teams to add a gifted wing defender. Okogie is considered one of the best available wing defenders in free agency, with teams likely interested in bolstering their roster depth with his point-of-attack defense. Last season, he averaged 7.1 points and 2.8 rebounds while shooting 44.3% from the field and 34.8% from three-point range. His length, athleticism, and potential availability on a veteran minimum contract are expected to generate significant interest league-wide, and he is likely to sign before the season starts due to the high demand for wing players. The article explores four potential landing spots for Okogie, including two Western Conference powerhouses. The Denver Nuggets, viewed as title contenders after acquiring players like Cam Johnson, Bruce Brown, and Jonas Valanciunas, are one potential destination. Adding Okogie would significantly enhance their wing depth. He could provide valuable insurance and backup for Bruce Brown defensively off the bench, potentially serve as a replacement for Cam Johnson due to his length, and guard multiple positions, earning him more playing time. The Nuggets, facing a grueling Western Conference schedule, need this depth to protect key players from injuries. The Minnesota Timberwolves, coming off an impressive postseason run that ended in the Western Conference Finals, are another potential landing spot. While motivated by their loss, the team faces the risk of regression next season, implying Okogie could help address that.
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The 8,000-Point Club is Two Former Mercury Players
Tina Charles scored 20 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the Connecticut Sun in their 79-65 loss to the Seattle Storm on Sunday. This performance pushed her career scoring total over 8,000 points, making her only the second player in WNBA history to reach this milestone, following league legend Diana Taurasi. Despite the Sun's rebuilding season, the 36-year-old Charles has averaged 15.6 points per game this year for the franchise where she began her career in 2010. Her career total of 8,019 points is second only to Taurasi's 10,646. Charles, like Taurasi, also played for the Phoenix Mercury. She signed with the Mercury in 2022 during a tumultuous season under new head coach Vanessa Nygaard. While the team made the playoffs, it was a strange season with only 15 regular-season wins and no postseason victories. Charles played alongside Taurasi and Skylar Diggins, posting the team's second-highest scoring average (17.3 points per game, plus 7.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists) and shooting well from three-point range (36.4%). However, her time with the Mercury was short-lived. After just 16 games, Charles and the team mutually agreed to terminate her contract, and she joined the Seattle Storm. Nygaard declined to comment beyond stating Charles had "elected not to play" in some games and that both sides were ready to move on. Charles clearly still has ability in 2025, but her future with the struggling Storm (currently 3-18 with a -15.6 point differential) is uncertain. While unlikely to catch Taurasi's points total, playing a few more seasons could solidify her sole possession of second place for a long time. DeWanna Bonner currently sits in third place on the all-time scoring list. Notably, the top three scorers in WNBA history are all either current or former Phoenix Mercury players.
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Gary Washburn on Jayson Tatum recruiting Damian Lillard: They’re communicating
Kevon Looney expressed disappointment and questioned the Golden State Warriors' trust after being benched during the playoffs, stating "Y'all don't trust me? I thought y'all trusted me". Charlotte Hornets guard Terry Rozier remains under federal investigation as part of an ongoing gambling probe. Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James commented on the hypothetical pairing with Michael Jordan, suggesting their playing styles would have complemented each other effectively: "Our games would have complemented each other well".
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Damian Lillard's Celtics interest revealed by Boston insider
Reports indicate the Boston Celtics are interested in signing Damian Lillard, with suggestions that star player Jayson Tatum is actively trying to recruit him. Their long-standing relationship makes a potential deal feasible. However, moving from the Portland Trail Blazers to the Milwaukee Bucks and now possibly Boston would represent a significant shift for Lillard, who would face intense performance expectations from the demanding Celtics fanbase. Further complicating a potential move are personal factors: joining Boston would place Lillard on the opposite coast from his family, which has reportedly been a concern for him in the past due to his desire to be near his children. Despite these challenges, a recent report from the Boston Herald suggests Lillard is now more "receptive" to joining the Celtics than he was in 2023. While the Celtics can only offer Lillard a minimum contract or a $5.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception (if they make moves to get below the second luxury tax apron), it remains unclear where his priorities lie this offseason. This marks a change from 2023 when Lillard, after requesting a trade from Portland, explicitly did not want to play for Boston and ultimately joined Milwaukee. The current situation suggests a different outcome might be possible.
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NBA Fans React To Jimmy Butler's Appearance With Steph Curry
The Golden State Warriors face a shrinking championship window with their three star players all aged 35 or older, intensifying pressure on general manager Mike Dunleavy and the front office to make strategic roster additions. These moves are deemed essential for the team to compete against top contenders like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets. During the offseason, Warriors veterans are focusing on personal downtime ahead of their expiring contracts. Draymond Green was spotted with LeBron James in Puerto Rico, while Jimmy Butler made an unexpected visit to Lake Tahoe. Butler specifically appeared to support teammate Steph Curry, who was participating in the American Century Championship golf tournament. Butler's appearance alongside Curry sparked enthusiastic fan reactions on social media. Supporters praised the duo with comments like "BEST DUO ITL" and expressed confidence they could win a championship with the right supporting pieces. While some fans noted the lack of offseason moves, the overall sentiment highlighted excitement about their partnership heading into the next season.
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A'ja Wilson's Mom Needed Just One Word To Make Aces Star Regret Her Postgame Outfit
Las Vegas Aces star A'ja Wilson was interrupted during her postgame press conference following a record-setting performance in the Aces' 104-102 win against the Golden State Valkyries. While speaking to reporters at Michelob Ultra Arena, Wilson paused the interview after her phone buzzed under the table. She explained that her mother had sent her a picture from the live press conference broadcast along with a one-word text: "Why?" reacting to Wilson's outfit. Laughing at her mother's critique, Wilson proceeded to remove her red headscarf right there at the press table. This moment was captured and shared on social media by Bleacher Report. The clip quickly went viral, with fans flooding the comments section expressing amusement and relatability. Reactions included fans stating everyone needs a mother like Wilson's who keeps them humble, joking that moms always know how to humble their children, and likening the text to a "real-time family meeting." Others shared that their own mothers would have done the same, and speculated the mom's text was likely in all capital letters.
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Damian Lillard Has One Reason To Choose Heat Over Celtics
Damian Lillard reportedly has mutual interest with the Boston Celtics, but analysis suggests the Miami Heat might be a better fit. Kevin O'Connor of Yahoo Sports, appearing on CLNS Media's Garden Report, acknowledged Boston's appeal for Lillard recovering from an Achilles injury, as he wouldn't need to be the primary star behind Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, allowing for rest and load management. However, O'Connor highlighted a significant downside for Lillard in Boston: the potential role. He questioned whether Lillard would want to join a team where he might be the backup point guard behind Derrick White and Payton Pritchard. O'Connor argued that a team like the Miami Heat offers Lillard the opportunity to be the clear starter and regain his status as the primary option, "Damian Lillard again." This analysis points to a potential competition between the Eastern Conference rivals for Lillard. O'Connor noted that Boston's depth at guard, specifically White and Pritchard, is a major deterrent for Lillard that the Celtics couldn't easily fix without making unwise roster moves. Ultimately, Lillard's decision is framed as a choice between seeking more touches and offensive opportunities (potentially with Miami) or prioritizing a greater chance of contending immediately (potentially with Boston).
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Celtics notebook: Thoughts on Boston’s talent drain, Damian Lillard rumors
The Boston Celtics' roster has significantly weakened since their 2024 NBA championship, despite President Brad Stevens avoiding the term "rebuild". The team has lost four starting-caliber players (Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford) plus key backup Luke Kornet, while adding only one starter, guard Anfernee Simons, acquired in the Holiday trade. Beyond Simons, additions include rotation player Georges Niang, end-of-bench players Luka Garza and Josh Minott, raw rookie Hugo Gonzalez, and two-way players Amari Williams and Max Shulga. The NBA's punitive second apron luxury tax rules are cited as a major factor in dismantling the team's enviable depth. The center position has been hit hardest. Boston traded Porzingis (driven by salary and durability concerns) and failed to re-sign his intended backups, Horford and Kornet. Kornet secured a lucrative free-agent deal with San Antonio, while Horford is considered unlikely to return. This leaves the Celtics with Neemias Queta (a distant fourth on last season's depth chart), Xavier Tillman, newcomer Luka Garza (who played sparingly in Minnesota), and rookie Amari Williams – potentially forming the NBA's weakest center group. Queta and Garza combined for only 32 minutes of garbage time in the entire 2024 postseason.
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PBA stands by call that nullified Mo Tautuaa dunk in Game 1
The PBA defended its decision to overturn San Miguel Beermen player Mo Tautuaa's dunk during the PBA Philippine Cup Finals Game 1 against TNT Tropang Giga, a ruling that contributed to TNT's 99-96 victory. Deputy commissioner Eric Castro explained that Tautuaa's action of pulling the rim after the dunk with 56 seconds remaining—which initially gave San Miguel a 98-97 lead—constituted basket interference under league rules. Castro cited Rule j-5, stating that an offensive player causing the backboard to vibrate or grasping the basket in a manner that influences the ball's entry invalidates the basket. The reversal was confirmed via replay review during a dead ball with just five seconds left, sparking dismay from San Miguel officials including team governor Robert Non. The overturned dunk proved pivotal in the game's outcome, marking a controversial start to the championship series at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
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LA Lakers coach says they have 'amazing defender' on the Summer League roster, he's fighting for his NBA future
The LA Lakers' 2025 Summer League campaign features several notable players generating buzz, with Bronny James drawing significant attention due to his name recognition, now appearing more settled and confident compared to 2024. Cole Swider is exciting fans with his prolific scoring, raising questions about his potential contribution to the team. Darius Bazley, a former 2019 first-round pick by the Utah Jazz who previously played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers, made a strong impact in a July 12 game, helping the Lakers secure a 94-81 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. In that win, Bazley recorded a double-double with 12 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and a notable five blocks, while Cole Swider also achieved a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds but no blocks. Lakers' Summer League coach Lindsey Harding praised Bazley's performance, highlighting his versatile defensive skills, stating he excels at guarding both on and off the ball across all positions and emphasizing the importance of his shot-blocking. Bazley, who has NBA playoff experience but saw his career decline leading to a stint in China last season, expressed his mission to revive his career, aiming to prove he belongs and can contribute to winning, with hopes that his development will be noticeable to the Lakers and other teams.
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PUP says veto of Nat’l Polytechnic University bill a setback to inclusive higher education
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) expressed deep disappointment over President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s veto of the National Polytechnic University (NPU) Bill. PUP stated the veto threatens the future of its regional campuses and represents a setback for inclusive public higher education, calling it a rejection of efforts to expand access. PUP explained that the bill, if signed, would have formally granted it national polytechnic university status, secured P100 million in annual support for five years, and provided greater institutional autonomy. The university emphasized this was not about prestige, but about resolving long-standing structural issues hindering its growth and modernization. It warned that without national funding, several regional campuses may face closure. The university felt the veto message downplayed its achievements and dismissed its 120-year legacy, citing its consistent performance in rankings, Level III Institutional Accreditation from AACCUP, high civil service ratings, and strong compliance with transparency standards. While the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) hasn't commented, PUP clarified that seeking NPU status wasn't a challenge to CHED's regulatory authority. It argued that institutional autonomy would empower PUP to innovate and modernize while remaining accountable to national standards, asserting that autonomy and regulation can coexist. PUP operates numerous campuses across Luzon, many established via Presidential Decree No. 1341 in underserved regions. It urged the national government to reconsider the veto, stressing that every day without the legislation treats education as a privilege instead of a right. Malacañang confirmed the President's veto, with a Presidential Communications Office official stating the reason was PUP's failure to comply with a long-standing requirement for institutional assessment mandated since 2016, with no proof the evaluation was completed.
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Celtics Predicted to Land 9-Time NBA All-Star After Anfernee Simons Trade
Bleacher Report's Greg Swartz predicts the Boston Celtics will sign Damian Lillard after the nine-time All-Star guard was waived by the Milwaukee Bucks. Swartz suggests the Celtics, not pressured to win immediately due to Jayson Tatum's Achilles injury, could view signing Lillard on a team-friendly deal as a smart investment for a potential 2026-27 title run, assuming their core players remain. Swartz indicates Lillard joining Boston depends on the Celtics successfully trading guard Anfernee Simons to shed salary. ESPN's Brian Windhorst reports that Celtics president Brad Stevens and the team are "actively" trying to trade Simons this summer, though the outcome is uncertain. Successfully trading Simons would allow the Celtics to use their $5.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception on Lillard. Swartz notes the Celtics' previous success acquiring veteran point guard Jrue Holiday from the Bucks, who helped them win the 2023 championship. Lillard responded to reported interest from the Celtics and other contenders while he recovers from injury, posting on social media: "If they call it a 'gamble' at this stage… tell ’em this [is] the jackpot. #ToBeContinued." The Bucks waived Lillard to sign center Myles Turner in free agency. According to The Athletic, the Celtics are among several contending teams, including the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers, interested in signing Lillard despite his expected absence next season due to his Achilles injury. The Athletic also reported that Lillard was "elated" about being waived, as it gave him freedom to choose his next team without financial constraints after the Bucks stretched the remaining $113 million on his contract.
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More annoying Bucks discourse could be on its way after Damian Lillard rumor
If Damian Lillard signs with the Boston Celtics, it would mark the second instance of a former Milwaukee Bucks All-Star point guard joining the team, echoing Jrue Holiday's move. This would likely spark renewed criticism of the Bucks' decisions, similar to the misguided discourse following Holiday's departure. The Bucks' trade of Holiday was difficult due to his significant contributions, including an NBA championship. However, the opportunity to acquire Damian Lillard, one of the league's top 75 players, justified the move—a decision many teams would replicate. Criticism of the Holiday trade overlooks key context: while Holiday won a title with Boston, he had a reduced role compared to his responsibilities in Milwaukee. Media and fans also ignore his underwhelming playoff performances for the Bucks in 2022 and 2023, which directly influenced the decision to pursue an upgrade like Lillard. Similarly, condemning the Lillard trade based solely on Holiday's success in Boston is flawed reasoning. Reports indicate a growing disconnect between Lillard and the Bucks even before his Achilles injury, with sources suggesting discussions about his future in Milwaukee were imminent had he stayed healthy. Moving on from Lillard allowed the Bucks to acquire Myles Turner, an ideal long-term replacement for Brook Lopez. The team prioritizes players fully committed to Milwaukee, a quality Turner embodies. Lillard's apparent eagerness for free agency further signals he wasn't a long-term fit. Should Lillard join Boston, it reflects the Celtics' effective recruitment, not a failure by the Bucks. Other teams had opportunities, but context is crucial: if Lillard desired to leave, allowing his departure is logical, even to a conference rival. Despite this, media narratives are expected to be misguided once again.
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Liberty vs. Dream odds, tips and betting trends - 7/13/2025
The Atlanta Dream (12-8) face the New York Liberty (13-6) on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET at Barclays Center. The game will be broadcast on Peachtree TV, WWOR, and Liberty Live. Atlanta will rely on Allisha Gray, the league's eighth-leading scorer averaging 18.7 points per game, to counter New York's Breanna Stewart, the fourth-leading scorer averaging 19.6 points per game. In their last game, the New York Liberty defeated the Las Vegas Aces 87-78 at home. Sabrina Ionescu led New York with 28 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 steals, shooting 39.1% from the field. Leonie Fiebich contributed 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks, shooting 54.5% from the field and 2-6 from three-point range. The Atlanta Dream lost their previous game on the road to the Indiana Fever, 99-82. Jordin Canada was Atlanta's top performer with 30 points and 8 assists, shooting 50.0% from the field and 6-11 from three-point range. Rhyne Howard added 14 points and 3 blocks, shooting 45.5% from the field and 4-8 from three-point range.
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Kyrie Irving goes off about ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith
Kyrie Irving, known for expressing strong opinions, has displayed increased maturity and leadership since joining the Dallas Mavericks in 2023. However, he recently directed criticism towards ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith. During a livestream, Irving commented on Smith's new five-year, $100 million contract with ESPN, mimicking Smith's own style of analyzing big deals. Irving stated, "I'm going to discuss his contract. I'm going to discuss Stephen A.'s contract... I'm gonna say, 'I don't think you're worth it.'" Stephen A. Smith is well-known for his outspoken and often controversial opinions across sports since joining ESPN in 2003. Irving's comments, made while he recovers from a torn ACL, are seen as a response to Smith's past critical takes on Irving, particularly on Smith's show "First Take" and in discussions with Shannon Sharpe.
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New York Knicks Center Has Unique Roster Situation
Ariel Hukporti, the last pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, is participating in his second Las Vegas Summer League with the New York Knicks. The 23-year-old center previously played 25 games for the team last season, averaging 1.9 points per game. Despite the Knicks exercising his team option for the 2025-26 season, Hukporti's $1.98 million contract remains non-guaranteed. He currently provides crucial roster flexibility by helping the Knicks stay below the NBA's second salary apron. However, The Athletic's John Hollinger reports this security is temporary—the team could waive him before his January guarantee date to sign a veteran later in the season. Hukporti is positioned as a top contributor for the Summer League team, being one of few Knicks with prior NBA experience. His performance in Las Vegas is critical; a strong showing could convince the Knicks to retain him long-term rather than pursue roster changes mid-season.
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Sharks stun Rams to reach NBL grand final
The Canterbury Rams' reign as National Basketball League (NBL) champions ended after they were defeated 101-82 by the Southland Sharks in the first semifinal at Christchurch's Cowles Stadium. This loss occurred despite the Rams winning back-to-back titles and finishing second in the 2025 regular season. Newly-anointed NBL MVP Josiah Allick led the Rams with a double-double, scoring a team-high 21 points (8/12 FG, 3/4 3pt) and grabbing 15 rebounds, along with three assists in 38 minutes. The Southland Sharks dominated with all five starters scoring in double digits. American imports Caleb Asberry contributed 19 points (9/12 FG), four rebounds, and nine assists, while Keylan Boone added 18 points (7/19 FG, 4/9 3pt), 10 rebounds, and two steals. Tukaha Cooper scored 16 points (6/13 FG, 3/5 3pt) and Sam Timmins had 11 points (5/8 FG), five rebounds, and three blocks. Off the bench, Alonzo Burton scored nine points, and Brayden Inger added seven points, nine rebounds, and three blocks.
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NBA Summer League: Warriors squad gets first look at Hansen Yang in Las Vegas opener
The Golden State Warriors and Portland Trail Blazers' Summer League matchup in Las Vegas will draw significant attention from China due to the debut of Trail Blazers rookie center Hansen Yang. The 7-foot-1 Chinese player, selected 16th overall in the draft, was previously projected as a second-round pick but became a borderline lottery selection. Golden State had evaluated Yang during a pre-draft workout. Warriors point guard Taran Armstrong emphasized the defensive challenge Yang presents, stating during shootaround that containing him would require team-wide effort. Armstrong noted the team studied film and developed a specific defensive strategy against the center, particularly if he gains position in the low post. Marques Bolden, the Warriors' 27-year-old center from Duke, is expected to be Yang's primary defender. Bolden recently returned from an Achilles injury sustained in last year's Summer League and recorded 10 rebounds across two California Classic games. Other Warriors players to watch include former Vanderbilt guard Chris Mañon, who impressed defensively and with athletic finishes in his Summer League debut but had limited impact in subsequent California Classic games. Additional former SEC guards may also feature in the contest.
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Dave Ildefonso downplays MPBL MVP talks, Abra-NE hype ahead of big Saturday showdown
Dave Ildefonso's arrival has significantly boosted the Abra team in the MPBL, leading them to a 17-1 record and second place in the North Division, trailing only undefeated Nueva Ecija (18-0). Ildefonso is posting impressive individual statistics, averaging 18.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, making fans consider him a frontrunner for the season MVP award. However, Ildefonso downplayed the midseason MVP talks, stating that his sole focus is on winning a championship for the people of Abra, which has been the team's goal since acquiring him. His strong performance earned him a return stint with Strong Group Athletics (SGA) for the Jones Cup in New Taipei. While most SGA members are already there, Ildefonso and Geo Chiu remained in the Philippines to play for Abra in a crucial regular-season game against Nueva Ecija in Palayan. Many fans see this matchup as a potential preview of the North Division Finals. Ildefonso downplayed the hype surrounding the game against Nueva Ecija, emphasizing he doesn't want to make it bigger than it is to avoid pressure. He views it as a normal regular-season game and prefers taking things one game at a time, noting that placement is important but there are more games ahead. Despite this, he insisted Abra will compete hard and aims to hand Nueva Ecija its first loss, even though they are playing on the road, calling it a good test. Following the Abra-Nueva Ecija clash, Ildefonso and Chiu face nine consecutive nights of basketball. They will immediately travel from Palayan to Taipei to join SGA for the Jones Cup. Because SGA has a bye on the opening Saturday, they will play all eight of their tournament games consecutively. Ildefonso and Chiu aim to catch the earliest possible flight Sunday morning to arrive in Taipei in time for SGA's final preparations before their opening game against Chinese Taipei Blue later that night.
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Surprise West Team Linked to Damian Lillard in Free Agency: Report
Despite many top NBA free agents already being signed, several solid players remain available, including star point guard Damian Lillard. The Milwaukee Bucks surprisingly waived Lillard earlier this summer to facilitate signing Myles Turner, a move that shocked the league. Although Lillard is expected to miss most or all of next season recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in last season's playoffs, he remains one of the premier free agents on the market. Multiple teams have shown interest in Lillard, including his former team, the Portland Trail Blazers. However, a new unexpected Western Conference contender—the Golden State Warriors—has emerged as a potential destination. According to a report by Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Warriors are among the teams atop Lillard’s list of preferences, partly due to his Oakland roots. While the pairing raises questions about his fit alongside Stephen Curry, it presents intriguing possibilities. Should Lillard join Golden State, a backcourt partnership with Curry would form one of the NBA’s most potent offensive duos upon his return from injury. The 34-year-old is coming off a strong season, averaging 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 1.02 steals per game while shooting 44.8% from the field and 37.6% from three-point range.
Views 3731Likes 3226
Celtics predicted to land $113 million All-Star guard
The Boston Celtics are undergoing a significant transformation this offseason, potentially making them the league's most changed team, with further moves possible. This shift began after star player Jayson Tatum suffered an Achilles tear during the playoffs' second round. Without Tatum, the Celtics are unlikely to compete for a championship, making the upcoming season essentially a "gap year." Reflecting this outlook, President Brad Stevens made several major moves. The Celtics traded away key championship starters Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. Additionally, they lost Luke Kornet in free agency and Al Horford is also likely departing. While the team still aims to compete and reach the playoffs next season, avoiding the luxury tax "second apron" became the top priority once it became clear they wouldn't contend for the title. Despite the current reset, the Celtics expect to return to being one of the Eastern Conference's elite teams when Tatum returns alongside Jaylen Brown and Derrick White for the 2026-27 season. Because the Celtics are effectively taking a year off, Bleacher Report identified Boston as the top potential destination for Damian Lillard. Lillard is also recovering from a playoff Achilles tear and is expected to miss most or all of next season. This shared recovery timeline makes Boston an intriguing fit. The Celtics could fully embrace the gap year strategy with Lillard, focusing on rehabilitating both stars before making a championship push in 2027. Although Lillard, recently let go by Milwaukee, still has significant ability, any team acquiring him must wait for his return. The Celtics are uniquely positioned to afford this waiting period, allowing both Lillard and Tatum to recover together without immediate competitive pressure.
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Chest Day: LSU transfer, rim-rattler, fisherman, future Ole Miss star (?)
Corey Chest, a forward from LSU, has become the first transfer secured by Ole Miss basketball this spring through the portal. After redshirting his first season, Chest played a significant role for LSU in 2024-25, appearing in 26 games (starting 19) and averaging 6.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting 60.7% from the field. He chose Ole Miss over several other programs, including Alabama, Auburn, Texas A&M, and Georgia. In an introductory video, Chest stated his decision was based on his relationship with the Ole Miss coaching staff and the program's culture. He described his playing style as "explosive," cited Kevin Durant as his basketball idol, mentioned his love for fishing, and described himself as a "dawg." Standing at 6-foot-8, Chest is noted as a rebounder and rim protector, addressing a key need in the Ole Miss frontcourt following a season where the Rebels won 24 games and reached the Sweet 16. Ole Miss has also bolstered its frontcourt with other additions: transfers James Scott (Louisville) and Augusto Cassia (Butler), plus Top 50 recruits and 4-stars Tylis Jordan and Niko Bundalo (the nation's No. 30 prospect in the 2025 class). Ole Miss head coach Chris Beard commented on Chest from two perspectives: as an SEC transfer who already showed promise as a young player in the league, and as a still-developing sophomore who needs to contribute immediately while focusing on skill development. Beard highlighted Chest's athleticism as a "game-changer," his competitiveness, his coachability, and his value as a teammate. He believes Chest chose Ole Miss partly due to the program's vision for his immediate impact and future development potential.
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Lakers Make History With Female Head Coach
The Los Angeles Lakers made a significant trade during the 2024-25 season to acquire Luka Doncic and pair him with LeBron James, which was the biggest news of that season. Now, the Lakers are making history again through their coaching staff. Head coach JJ Redick enters his second year with goals for the 2025-26 season after a disappointing previous run. Assistant coach Lindsey Harding is playing an extra important role this summer. Lindsey Harding is making history as only the second female ever to serve as head coach at the NBA Summer League, following Becky Hammon. Harding, currently an assistant for the Lakers, previously helped lead the G League's Stockton Kings to a No. 1 seed in the 2023-24 Western Conference Finals. She also made history in 2024 by becoming the first woman hired as an assistant coach by the Lakers and is the first woman in G League history to win Coach of the Year. Social media reactions to the news highlighted support for Harding, with comments praising her playing career, expressing hope she becomes the first female NBA head coach someday, and emphasizing the importance of representation. When the Lakers hired Harding, head coach JJ Redick discussed his holistic vision for player development. He emphasized that it extends beyond basketball mechanics (ball handling, shooting, passing) to include tactical understanding, film study, analytics, nutrition, physical conditioning, and crucially, mental development. He plans to hire a director of player development who aligns with this vision. The article concludes by stating Harding is contributing to developing the Lakers into a winning franchise.
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