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TOPNBA Star Jalen Williams Says He Retired His Parents, Opens Up on $287 Million Extension
Oklahoma City Thunder star Jalen Williams discussed his rapid rise from an unknown college player to one of the NBA's top young talents within just three years during an interview with TMZ Sports at LAX. Williams, the 12th overall pick in the 2022 draft, highlighted his successful 2025 season, which included All-Star and All-Defensive team selections, winning an NBA championship, and securing a massive five-year, $287 million contract extension. Williams described his journey as "surreal," emphasizing how quickly his life changed. He expressed particular pride in being able to retire his parents, Ronald and Nicole Williams, as a result of his success. Both parents served in the Air Force; Ronald worked as a jet engine mechanic and logistics specialist for 24 years, while Nicole worked in the medical field. Despite his achievements and new contract, Williams admitted he hasn't fully processed everything, including his significant payday, noting that the money hasn't hit his bank account yet. He also mentioned his focus on supporting his brother Cody Williams' professional career with the Utah Jazz, stating he plans to eventually step back and "soak it all in." On the court, Williams played a crucial role in the Thunder's NBA Finals victory over the Indiana Pacers during the 2024-25 season, averaging 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game.
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TOPBuilding Duke's all-time roster: Does Cooper Flagg make the cut?
Former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski, considered one of college basketball's greatest coaches, stated that freshman Cooper Flagg is "definitely the best freshman that has ever played" at Duke, placing him among the program's elite players like Grant Hill and Christian Laettner. This prompted an analysis to determine where Flagg ranks on Duke's all-time roster after just one season. Compiling the roster proved complex, focusing strictly on collegiate accomplishments and evaluating 53 first-round NBA draft picks since 1985-86, plus other elite players who warranted acknowledgment despite limited playing time (like Kyrie Irving, whose potential was hampered by injury). Player polls, statistical impact, national-level performance, and sheer dominance were considered, with positions ignored to reflect today's game. The goal was a balanced roster, acknowledging the difficulty of comparing multi-year players from older eras to potential one-and-done stars like Flagg or Zion Williamson. Flagg emerged as the most polarizing candidate. Some former Duke players, including ESPN analyst Jay Bilas, argued one season was insufficient for all-time top-five consideration, regardless of talent. A member of the 1994 runner-up team and a star from the 1991/92 championship teams explicitly stated Flagg wouldn't make their all-time starting five, citing the lack of a national championship ring and the accomplishments of others like Grant Hill. They placed Flagg in a category similar to Kyrie Irving. Conversely, others, including a key member of the 2001 championship team, believed an argument could be made for Flagg at power forward, especially considering the modern style of play.
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El ascenso del Betis a la ACB, en el alambre
Betis Baloncesto (also referred to as Hereda Sevilla Baloncesto) faced uncertainty regarding its place in the ACB league as the deadline for submitting documentation passed at midnight. The Sevillian club reportedly failed the mandatory and strict audit required for promotion, casting doubt on its ascension. Owner Pedro Fernández negotiated until the last minute, having previously assured Sevilla would play in the ACB. However, unresolved debts owed to players claiming promotion bonuses and the lack of a main sponsor (despite speculation one had been secured) prevented formalizing the promotion. Media in Granada reported expecting ACB presence, while the Sevillian club remained silent, creating uncertainty. Fernández later posted a late-night TikTok video claiming all debts were paid, fees were settled, and he expected ACB approval on Wednesday. Shortly after, around 1:00 AM, Betis Baloncesto issued an official statement confirming they submitted all required documentation to the ACB within the stipulated deadline, adhering to the registration process for the 2025-26 season. The club stated it now awaits the official resolution from the ACB. Submitting documentation does not guarantee promotion; the ACB must review it and could delay any announcement until its assembly next week. The club's future is tied to this promotion outcome. If promotion fails, it's unclear if Fernández will keep the team in the Primera FEB or liquidate it, as was previously considered when a move to Jaén was rumored. The situation represents a potentially bitter end to a turbulent period marked by unclear communication from the club, beyond the owner's confident assertions about winning the league and playing in the ACB, despite the known complexities. The future now depends on the ACB's decision and, if rejected, the reasons provided and Fernández's subsequent response.
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Theo Maledon spoke about Real Madrid’s move: “It feels like a dream”
Theo Maledon, Real Madrid's new signing, discussed his transfer to the Spanish club in an interview with SKWEEK following a standout EuroLeague season with ASVEL. After returning from the NBA, Maledon averaged 17.0 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game, establishing himself as ASVEL's leader and earning the move to Madrid. The 24-year-old French guard admitted he hasn't fully processed the transfer, expecting it to feel real during preseason when he meets the coach and teammates. He described joining "the biggest team in Europe" as "incredible" and "like a dream," emphasizing the significance of the opportunity. Maledon revealed that initial contact with Real Madrid began in December, but he remained focused on ASVEL until playoffs approached. At that point, negotiations intensified, prompting him and his agent to evaluate "the smartest move" for his future career development. When questioned about potential NBA returns, Maledon kept the possibility open, stating: "I'm still open to it. Obviously, the NBA is always a goal." However, he stressed his current satisfaction with Madrid and appreciation for the EuroLeague's competitive level, noting he's "taking it day by day" without immediate concerns about leaving Europe.
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Aces vs. Wings odds, tips and betting trends - 7/16/2025
The Las Vegas Aces (10-11), led by A'ja Wilson after her 34-point performance in a 104-102 win, will play on the road against the Dallas Wings (6-16) on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The game tips off at 8 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on Vegas 34 and KFAA. In their previous game, the Aces secured a 104-102 home victory over the Golden State Valkyries. A'ja Wilson led the team with 34 points, 16 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 75.0% shooting from the field, supported by Jackie Young who contributed 30 points, 6 assists, and 64.3% shooting. The Dallas Wings are coming off a 102-83 road loss to Indiana. Their top performers in that game were Paige Bueckers, who scored 21 points with 2 steals (60.0% FG, 2-4 from 3PT), and Li Yueru, who added 16 points on 72.7% shooting. The article encourages readers to prepare for this WNBA matchup.
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Luka Dončić's Dramatic Transformation Goes Viral As Lakers Superstar Dons Ultra-Lean Look
Luka Dončić's significant physical transformation, showcasing a leaner and more conditioned physique, has generated substantial buzz on social media and among Los Angeles Lakers fans. This change comes as he prepares for international competition in the Eurobasket tournament and follows intense workout regimens and a strict diet, directly addressing conditioning concerns raised after his blockbuster trade to the Lakers. Simultaneously, Dončić's status within the Lakers organization has been solidified. A meeting with GM Rob Pelinka and head coach JJ Redick after the team's disappointing first-round playoff exit clearly signaled that Dončić is now the face of the franchise. Reports describe Pelinka presenting offseason plans and long-term strategies to Dončić at this meeting, a role previously filled by LeBron James, signifying a major organizational shift. This shift occurs amid uncertainty surrounding LeBron James' future with the Lakers. While James has not publicly requested a trade, speculation is widespread that he may either play the upcoming season or ask to be traded, fueled by reports of a potentially soured relationship with the team. Looking ahead to Dončić's first full season with the Lakers, the front office is actively building around him. Moves include pursuing DeAndre Ayton to address center needs and adding plug-and-play talent like Jake LaRavia. Despite the drama surrounding James, Dončić's determination to prove critics wrong, and roster adjustments, the championship-or-bust expectations for the Lakers remain, leaving their potential for a deep playoff run uncertain.
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Steph Curry’s Unexpected Interaction With Fans Stirred Instant Reactions
Steph Curry's unexpected encounter with fans during the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, generated immediate reactions. The Golden State Warriors All-Star guard's significant impact on the Bay Area sports scene, including helping create an atmosphere that aided the Golden State Valkyries' WNBA debut and making his jersey the league's second-most sold, was highlighted. During the event, Curry interacted with a fan who had a large tattoo on his back depicting Curry performing his signature "Night Night" celebration. Curry appeared genuinely surprised and impressed by the tattoo. The fan expressed his admiration, telling Curry, "We love you, man," while shaking hands and posing for a photo. Another fan watching the interaction commented, "I love that." The moment gained traction on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), where fans reacted enthusiastically. Comments included "🤝🔥," "Good glaze," and "Steph is goated," reflecting the positive fan response to the interaction.
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Kyrie Irving criticizes Stephen A. Smith's salary: Does he deserve to earn more than Wemby?
Chris Paul declined a contract offer from the Charlotte franchise. Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban stated he fully expects Kyrie Irving to play during the upcoming NBA season, emphasizing Irving's deep passion for basketball by saying, "He lives to ball." Kyrie Irving publicly criticized the salary of ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith, questioning whether Smith deserves to earn more money than San Antonio Spurs player Victor Wembanyama.
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Thunder spend big — but smart — with eye-watering contract extensions
The Oklahoma City Thunder have committed $822 million to secure their core trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams through the end of the decade. These extensions, finalized within three days, solidify the team's foundation for sustained success after winning the NBA championship. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the franchise MVP and All-NBA first teamer, signed a four-year, $285 million extension. Chet Holmgren, still on his rookie contract, agreed to a five-year, $250 million extension. Jalen Williams, fresh off a breakout season, signed a five-year max rookie extension potentially worth up to $287 million. Williams, the 12th pick in the 2022 draft, had a standout year, earning All-NBA Third Team and All-Defensive honors. He averaged 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. In the playoffs, he scored 1,180 points alongside Gilgeous-Alexander, the fourth-highest playoff duo in NBA history. Williams also joined an elite group of players with at least 1,400 points and 100 steals last season. Despite this significant spending, the Thunder remain below the NBA's punitive second tax apron and even under the luxury tax threshold. They became just the fifth team since 2007 to win a title without paying the luxury tax. This is credited to GM Sam Presti's management, as the Thunder won the championship as the fourth-youngest team in the league with the 25th-ranked payroll. While rivals might hope ownership's historical reluctance to pay the tax or new CBA rules (like the second apron) could force roster changes, Presti's long-term planning and savvy cap management position the Thunder uniquely. They can keep their stars and avoid the second apron for at least the next three seasons if they choose. This situation highlights how championships are also won through front-office strategy. The Thunder are not guaranteed another championship, but securing their Big Three gives them every advantage to pursue one, including the potential for back-to-back titles.
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It’s time for (Summer League) Basketball: Spurs vs Mavericks
The NBA Summer League features a highly anticipated matchup between the top two draft picks, Cooper Flagg (Dallas Mavericks) and Dylan Harper (San Antonio Spurs), in an early afternoon game in Las Vegas. After dominating the Philadelphia 76ers with a 41-point victory on Thursday, the Spurs face the Mavericks, who previously defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 87-85. Despite a poor shooting performance (5-21) in his first game, Flagg's talent was evident, and he is expected to be more productive in this game. This game marks the anticipated debut of Dylan Harper in a Spurs uniform, as he was previously sidelined with a minor groin injury. The Harper-Flagg matchup is a major Summer League attraction, though both players might show rust due to recent inactivity. David Jones-Garcia has emerged as the breakout star for the Spurs summer squad, impressing on both ends of the court, particularly with his scoring ability (three-point shooting and driving). While his passing is developing, his stellar play positions him as a major Summer League story and a potential candidate for a regular roster spot or two-way contract. Following their 41-point loss to the Spurs, the Philadelphia 76ers announced they are disbanding their Summer League team for the year.
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Surprise Celtics addition just made his case for something bigger
Former San Antonio Spurs center Charles Bassey made an unexpected appearance for the Boston Celtics in their Summer League game on Friday afternoon in Las Vegas. Despite practicing with the team in Boston and Las Vegas beforehand, his addition to the roster was unannounced. Bassey revealed the move was "last minute," prompted by a call from his agent leading to an immediate flight to join the Celtics as they began training camp. Head coach Matt Reynolds only learned Bassey would join shortly before Day 1 of camp, with Bassey participating starting on Day 2. Entering camp a day late, Bassey was the least-prepared player. Nevertheless, he made a significant impact off the bench in the first game. His NBA experience was evident as he outperformed Memphis' big men on offensive rebounds (securing seven) and set solid perimeter screens. Coach Reynolds acknowledged Bassey was behind on terminology but emphasized his clear, huge impact on the game. Bassey finished the game with 14 points, 11 rebounds (seven offensive), and two blocks, shooting 6-of-8 from the floor. He described his contributions as "great effort, my rebounding, blocking shots, rim protection," and "great defense," stating he focuses on playing his defined role for the team every night. Having spent the past three years as a backup with the Spurs, Bassey is now an unrestricted free agent. The Spurs' recent signings (Luke Kornet, Kelly Olynyk) suggest he will seek a new team. Boston's center rotation is currently unsettled, featuring Neemias Queta, Luke Garza, Xavier Tillman Sr., and rookie Amari Williams, potentially creating an opportunity for the 24-year-old Bassey. Bassey cited the Celtics' "culture," including the coaching staff and star players like Jayson Tatum, as his reason for joining, emphasizing the chance to learn. He highlighted the elite energy of the playoff-bound team, praising the practice environment, gym atmosphere, and overall vibes, stating "I love it."
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Disappointing Lakers Signing Could Still Be Traded in July
The Los Angeles Lakers have made significant roster additions during the 2025 NBA free agency period, including Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Adou Thiero. Despite these moves, the team continues exploring upgrades to become championship contenders. With limited salary cap flexibility, trading existing players remains their most viable option for further reinforcements. Veteran guard Gabe Vincent has emerged as the most likely trade candidate before July ends. He has one year remaining on his contract worth $11.5 million. The Lakers initially signed him for backcourt depth after his four seasons with Miami Heat, but his performance has fallen short of expectations. During the 2024-25 season, Vincent averaged only 6.4 points, 1.4 assists, and 1.3 rebounds per game with inefficient shooting splits (.400 FG%, .353 3P%). His offensive metrics (-3.8 box plus/minus) and playoff performance (2.8 PPG on 35.7% shooting) further demonstrated his decline. The Lakers require reliable backup guards to support stars like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Management views Vincent's expiring contract as a valuable trade asset, potentially facilitating either a direct player swap or inclusion in a larger deal. Upgrading Vincent's roster spot is considered essential for the team's title aspirations.
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Quenton Jackson Inks Two-Way Deal With Pacers, Immediately Shows Value
Indiana Pacers guard Quenton Jackson has signed his fourth NBA two-way contract, returning to the Pacers for the third consecutive season during the 2025-26 offseason. The Pacers announced the signing earlier this week. Jackson, who received a qualifying offer and was a restricted free agent, spent the entire 2024-25 season on a two-way deal with Indiana. Due to early-season injuries on the team, Jackson became a significant rotation player, appearing in 28 games and starting seven times. He averaged 5.8 points and 1.9 assists per game, scoring in double figures six times. Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle praised Jackson's intensity, combative defense, rim attacking, and hard-playing style, emphasizing how Jackson plays within the system. Former Pacers center Myles Turner also commended Jackson's passion, energy, and work ethic in making a difference and working his way up. Jackson often took on challenging defensive assignments, holding up well due to his foot speed and fiery nature. The Pacers went 3-4 in his starts last season. The Pacers re-signed Jackson based on his valuable contributions, noting this is his final season of two-way eligibility, making it a one-year contract. Shortly after signing, Jackson demonstrated his value in summer league play against the Cleveland Cavaliers. With the Pacers trailing significantly, Jackson led a comeback in the third quarter. In just 5 minutes and 26 seconds, he scored 12 points, added an assist, and recorded a steal, including a dunk, free throw, three-pointer, and two more finishes at the rim. This surge helped the Pacers cut a 13-point halftime deficit to just two points by the end of the third quarter. Jackson attributed the turnaround to increased intensity and matching the opponent's energy after halftime.
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Former South Carolina women's basketball star A'ja Wilson up for another pair of ESPYs
WNBA superstar A'ja Wilson, a South Carolina women's basketball legend and three-time MVP, has been nominated for two ESPY awards following her record-breaking 2024 season. She is nominated in the categories of "Best Athlete – Women’s Sports" and "Best WNBA Player," and fans can vote for her online. Wilson's 2024 campaign was historic. She averaged 26.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.6 blocks, 2.3 assists, and 1.8 steals, shooting 52% from the field and 84% from the free throw line. She set WNBA all-time records for total points (1021), total rebounds (451), points per game (26.9), and single-game points (53), becoming the only player to reach 1000 points or 450 rebounds in a season. Wilson led the league in points, points per game, rebounds, blocked shots, and blocks per game, while also ranking in the top five for rebounds per game and steals. She was one of only four players averaging at least 20 points and two assists, and the only player averaging at least 1.5 blocks and 1.5 steals. Off the court, she received the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award. During the WNBA season, Wilson also played for Team USA in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. She led the team to a gold medal and earned Olympic Starting Five honors as well as the Olympic MVP award. The ESPY Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, July 16th in Los Angeles at the Dolby Theatre, hosted by comedian Shane Gillis. It will be broadcast on ABC at 8:00 p.m. ET and streamed on ESPN+ and the ESPN app. This nomination follows Wilson's success at the previous year's ESPYs, where she won both the "Best WNBA Player" and "Best Athlete – Women’s Sports" awards. Additionally, her undefeated, National Championship-winning South Carolina team won the ESPY for "Best Team," and head coach Dawn Staley received the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance for her cancer research advocacy and support for children undergoing treatment.
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MN Timberwolves Rookie Blows Up Expectations in Summer League Debut
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 98-91 in their first NBA 2K26 Summer League game in Las Vegas on Thursday. The Timberwolves fielded a veteran and talented Summer League roster, featuring their top young prospects. This included 2024 first-round picks Rob Dillingham and TJ Shannon Jr., 2025 first-round pick Joan Beringer, and 2023 picks Leonard Miller and Jaylen Clark. Rookie center Joan Beringer, the 18-year-old 2025 No. 17 overall pick with only four years of basketball experience, emerged as the standout storyline. He immediately impressed with multiple blocked shots early in the game, showcasing elite defensive potential and drawing significant attention. Beringer dominated throughout, finishing the game with 11 points (5/6 FG), 8 rebounds (3 offensive), 2 steals, and 6 blocks in 22 minutes, looking like an NBA-ready player and potentially a draft steal. While Beringer, Shannon Jr., and Jaylen Clark performed well, second-year guard Rob Dillingham had a tougher outing, recording 15 points and 6 assists but also committing 7 turnovers. Overall, the Timberwolves were pleased with their young players' performance, particularly Beringer's impact. Their next Summer League game is against the Denver Nuggets on Saturday at 9 PM on NBA TV and ESPN3.
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Sparks overwhelmed by league-best Lynx
The Los Angeles Sparks started strong against the Minnesota Lynx but ultimately lost 91-82 at home. Despite the Sparks' initial burst, the Lynx demonstrated their league-leading dominance. Individually, Sparks All-Star Kelsey Plum performed well, scoring 17 points on 4-7 shooting. New acquisition Julie Vanloo also had a notable game, hitting five 3-pointers for 15 points. However, the Lynx, featuring MVP frontrunner Napheesa Collier (17 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists), lived up to their top-record status. The game began with the Lynx taking a 7-2 lead. The Sparks responded with a surge of three-pointers from Rickea Jackson, Julie Allemand, and Plum, gaining a 13-7 edge and extending their lead to double figures after a Lynx timeout. The Lynx countered late in the quarter, with Collier dominating inside and Natisha Hiedeman scoring seven quick points to briefly regain the lead. A technical foul on Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve helped the Sparks end the first quarter ahead 26-22. The second quarter saw a dominant Lynx performance. They scored eight unanswered points until Vanloo hit a three. Minnesota continued to overwhelm the Sparks, forcing turnovers and scoring easily inside, outscoring LA 22-8 midway through the quarter. Exchanges of baskets gave the Lynx a 10-point halftime lead. The Sparks' struggles continued into the third quarter. An Azurá Stevens turnover led to a Lynx fastbreak, and Kayla McBride's three-pointer extended Minnesota's lead to 57-44.
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Chicago hosts Minnesota after Allen's 27-point game
The Minnesota Lynx (18-3 overall, 13-2 Western Conference) face the Chicago Sky (6-13 overall, 1-8 Eastern Conference) in Chicago on Saturday at 1 p.m. EDT. Chicago enters the game following a victory over the Dallas Wings where Rebecca Allen scored 27 points. At home, the Sky hold a 3-4 record. They allow an average of 86.3 points per game and are being outscored by 7.2 points on average overall. The Lynx have a 7-3 record on the road. They average 84.8 points per game and outscore their opponents by an average of 10.1 points. Offensively, Chicago averages 79.1 points per game, which is 4.4 points more than the 74.7 points Minnesota typically allows. Defensively, Minnesota makes an average of 9.1 three-pointers per game, which is 0.9 fewer than the average 10.0 three-pointers Chicago concedes per game. This is the second meeting between the teams this season. The Lynx won the first encounter 80-75 on July 6, with Courtney Williams scoring 25 points for Minnesota. For the Sky, Angel Reese averages 13.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 steals. Ariel Atkins is averaging 14.4 points over the last 10 games. For the Lynx, Napheesa Collier averages 23.5 points and 7.9 rebounds. Kayla McBride is averaging 2.0 made three-pointers over the last 10 games. In their last 10 games, the Sky are 4-6, averaging 82.4 points while shooting 44.6% from the field. Their opponents averaged 83.6 points during this stretch. The Lynx are 8-2 in their last 10 games, averaging 83.6 points while shooting 44.9% from the field. Their opponents averaged only 73.3 points. Both teams have significant injuries: Chicago's Courtney Vandersloot is out for the season (ACL), and Minnesota's Karlie Samuelson is out for the season (foot).
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Steve Kerr may crush Warriors hopes of landing 9x All-Star in free agency
The Golden State Warriors, facing a quiet free agency period with roster spots to fill, have been linked to Oakland native Damian Lillard after he became an unrestricted free agent. The Milwaukee Bucks unexpectedly waived the 34-year-old guard to accommodate Myles Turner, voiding the remaining two years of his contract. ESPN's Marc J. Spears reported the Warriors contacted Lillard or his management, signaling potential interest in acquiring the star point guard despite his recovery from a torn Achilles. Lillard is expected to be sidelined until at least next season's All-Star break, though Golden State—viewed as a second-tier contender in the West—may consider the long-term upside worth the risk. Analyst Kevin O'Connor criticized the potential fit, arguing Lillard would be mismatched playing behind Stephen Curry in Steve Kerr's high-motion offense. O'Connor specifically questioned whether a veteran recovering from a catastrophic leg injury should endure Kerr's physically demanding system, which emphasizes constant movement off the ball. While Kerr's offense has fueled four championships and elevated players like Curry, its suitability for Lillard remains uncertain. The system requires high basketball IQ and adaptability, traits the Warriors' front office prioritizes. Concerns exist that reduced mobility from Lillard's injury could be exacerbated in this structure, despite the appeal of signing him at a discounted rate. Ultimately, the Warriors' interest hinges on whether Lillard reciprocates given the offensive demands and health considerations. The decision may reveal whether he values the championship opportunity over potential stylistic friction in Golden State's scheme.
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Hawks re-sign NBA Dunk Contest participant in latest free agency move
The Atlanta Hawks have re-signed Jacob Toppin in free agency. The team tendered a qualifying offer to Toppin, making him a restricted free agent, and he has now accepted a new two-way contract with the Hawks. This contract means Toppin will occupy one of the Hawks' three two-way roster spots. As a two-way player, he will be limited to 50 NBA games during the regular season and will not be eligible for the playoffs unless the Hawks convert his contract to a standard NBA deal. The team previously signed Eli Ndiaye to another two-way spot this offseason. Toppin will be entering his second season with the Hawks, who acquired him in March of last season after his release by the New York Knicks. He appeared in only one regular season game for Atlanta last year. However, he spent significant time in the G League, playing 23 games (averaging over 36 minutes) for the Westchester Knicks and College Park Skyhawks. In the G League, he averaged 22.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists with shooting splits of 50.4% from the field, 37.1% from three-point range, and 81.2% from the free-throw line. Toppin began his NBA career on a two-way contract with the Knicks during the 2023-24 season, after having an Exhibit 10 deal converted. He is the younger brother of Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin. Jacob Toppin also participated in the NBA Dunk Contest during the 2024 All-Star Weekend.
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A look at the intriguing Knicks options to fill the final free-agent spot
The New York Knicks have creatively navigated the NBA's restrictive salary-cap system by finding ways to maximize financial flexibility, with much of the credit attributed to team capologist Brock Aller, who approaches roster building as a precise mathematical equation. Jalen Brunson also earned significant praise from Knicks fans for signing a team-friendly contract extension, a move that saved the team over $11 million in cap space specifically for the upcoming season. This summer, the Knicks identified the optimal cap-wise strategy to build out their bench through free agency, described as a multi-step process.
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Keegan-Michael Key summons his Mr. Garvey persona to attempt Victor Wembanyama’s name
The author, an educator with 17 years of experience, emphasizes the importance of correctly pronouncing students' names, even if they are complex, and always asks for confirmation. They contrast this with Keegan-Michael Key's famous "substitute teacher" comedy sketch character, Mr. Garvey, who deliberately mispronounces names with "hostile aplomb" and stands by his incorrect versions. The author notes the sketch's enduring popularity, leading to fans often asking Key to read athletes' names in character. A recent example featured Key attempting to pronounce San Antonio Spurs player Victor Wembanyama's name. The author humorously suggests Key would struggle as a Spurs interim coach, listing other Spurs players with difficult-to-pronounce names (Emanuel* Ginobili, Fabricio Oberto, Tiago Splitter, Beno Udrih, Boban Marjanovic, Sandro Mamukelashvili), implying that only "Tee-MOH-thee Done-CAN" (Tim Duncan) might be easy for him. *The author adds they enjoy sharing the moment Tim Duncan mispronounced Manu Ginobili's name on draft night. The piece concludes by welcoming readers to "The Thread," the Spurs community forum, and reminding them of the community guidelines.
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PBA: Singson stars in Taulava-less Tigers' 93-79 win
Veteran player Dale Singson played a crucial role in establishing the foundation for Coca-Cola's victory in their KFC-PBA Philippine Cup game on Friday night. However, Singson had to leave the game early due to suffering a pulled hamstring.
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Cariaso, Seigle, Racela, Asaytono, King, Hawkins among final cuts in '40 Greatest PBA Players' screening
Barangay Ginebra coach Jeffrey Cariaso suffered two setbacks. The day after his team's lopsided loss to GlobalPort knocked them out of the PBA Philippine Cup's Magic 4, sources revealed Cariaso was also one of the final cuts for the PBA's '40 Greatest Players' pool. A source indicated Cariaso was among the final eight players considered for the last five spots on the elite list, joining the members of the '25 Greatest' list and the 10 league MVPs from 2000 onwards. The source explained that the 10 former MVPs since the last induction were automatic selections ("shoo-ins"), leaving only five open spots. Eight top-performing non-MVP players were nominated for those spots, with Cariaso making the final eight but not the final "Magic 5". The screening committee selected Kerby Raymundo, Marc Pingris, Chito Loyzaga, Jayson Castro, and Marlou Aquino for the five open spots. They join the 10 former MVPs: James Yap, Danny Ildefonso, Asi Taulava, Willie Miller, Eric Menk, Kelly Williams, Jayjay Helterbrand, Jimmy Alapag, Mark Caguioa, and Arwind Santos. Reigning MVP June Mar Fajardo was excluded because the panel limited honorees to players with at least five seasons in the league. Aside from Cariaso, the other final cuts for the elite group honored in April were 1999 Rookie of the Year Danny Seigle and 1982 PBA MVP candidate Abe King. Before narrowing to eight candidates, the selection panel (including Robert Jaworski, Freddie Webb, PBA officials, and media members) considered around 14 former PBA superstars. The committee trimmed the list to eight for easier voting, and Raymundo, Loyzaga, Castro, Pingris, and Aquino received multiple votes from the seven committee members. Nelson Asaytono, Olsen Racela, Dennis Espino, and Bong Hawkins were also considered by the panel. The 15 new nominees (the 10 MVPs and the five additions) will join Jaworski and the other members of the '25 Greatest Players'. The original '25 Greatest' list includes Ramon Fernandez, Abet Guidaben, William 'Bogs' Adornado, Johnny Abarrientos, Ato Agustin, Francis Arnaiz, Ricky Brown, Allan Caidic, Hector Calma, Philip Cezar, Atoy Co, Jerry Codinera, Kenneth Duremdes, Bernie Fabiosa, Danny Florencio, Freddie Hubalde, Jojo Lastimosa, Lim Eng Beng, Samboy Lim, Ronnie Magsanoc, Vergel Meneses, Manny Paner, Alvin Patrimonio, and Benjie Paras.
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The New York Knicks eye free agency move for Karl-Anthony Towns’ ex-teammate they failed to get last season
The New York Knicks have two main offseason priorities: finding a replacement for head coach Tom Thibodeau and upgrading their roster. The franchise has expressed interest in South Carolina's Dawn Staley for the coaching vacancy. Despite the ongoing coaching search, the Knicks remain active in player acquisition. After signing undrafted rookie Dink Pate to an Exhibit 10 contract, the team is now focusing on veteran talent. Knicks reporter Ian Begley revealed mutual interest existed between the Knicks and veteran guard Tyus Jones last season, with Jones even willing to take a pay cut to join New York. However, Jones ultimately chose Phoenix, where he averaged 10.2 points, 5.3 assists, and 2.4 rebounds while shooting 41.4% from three-point range. Following Phoenix's disappointing season and early playoff exit, Jones is back on the market. His proven ability to run an offense and hit clutch three-pointers makes him an attractive option for contending teams seeking depth. Beyond being a quality backup for Jalen Brunson, Jones brings experience and established chemistry with Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns from their time together in Minnesota (2015-2019). Their previous partnership could lead to immediate on-court adjustment, as Jones excels at finding big men and Towns' improved three-point shooting creates spacing for effective pick-and-rolls. The financial aspect also makes Jones attractive for the cap-strapped Knicks. New York can offer him a veteran minimum contract, fitting within their current salary constraints without sacrificing future flexibility. Begley noted the Knicks have tools like a $5 million exception and the veteran's minimum exception to pursue free agents like Jones. The Knicks must also address their own free agents, including Delon Wright, Precious Achiuwa, Landry Shamet, and Cam Payne.
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Albury Morris medallist Elliott Powell charged with striking Charlie Sanson
Albury co-captain and Morris medallist Elliott Powell has been charged with striking. The charge stems from an incident during a match against Lavington on Saturday at Albury Sportsground. Powell was reported by the boundary umpire on the western side of the ground after being involved in a running battle with Lavington's Charlie Sanson. Around the 23-minute mark of the third quarter, Powell and Sanson were running down the wing near the old scoreboard. The pair tangled near the 50m arc, resulting in Sanson falling to the ground for about 20 seconds. After getting up, Sanson ran towards Powell near the centre of the 50m arc, leading to another physical confrontation where they wrestled on the ground. There is no vision available of this incident. Powell started the fourth quarter on the field but, following a discussion with umpires near the centre, discovered he had been reported and was forced to spend 15 minutes off the ground. The boundary umpire was unable to inform the field umpires of the report before the three-quarter time siren, which sounded shortly after the incident. The report was made during the three-quarter time break at the first available opportunity. The incident was graded as intentional conduct, high contact (head), and low impact. This grading carries a base sanction of a two-match suspension. However, Powell can accept a one-match ban with an early guilty plea.
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Charlie Sanson takes a pack mark
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Blackwater stays in contention with win over winless Terrafirma
The provided content consists solely of repeated date entries without any accompanying news text or information. No actual news content is present to summarize. The dates listed are: July 1, 2025 (appearing twice), June 30, 2025, and June 29, 2025 (appearing twice).
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Hot Match
