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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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The Miami Heat, having failed to acquire a star player this offseason, are still aiming for a significant future move, potentially by 2026. While long-shot targets like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic exist, Trae Young emerges as an interesting "Plan B" trade option for the team. Recent reports indicate the Atlanta Hawks and Trae Young have not yet held "substantive talks" on a contract extension. Although an extension could still happen and would signal commitment, the current lack of discussions naturally creates uncertainty about Young's future with the Hawks. Despite the Hawks adding Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Kristaps Porzingis this summer, suggesting efforts to build around Young, offering him the eligible four-year, $229 million supermax extension represents a much larger financial commitment than acquiring supporting players. Any hesitation from the Hawks could open the door for the Heat. If the Hawks show reluctance, the Heat could pursue Young as a running mate for Bam Adebayo (and possibly Tyler Herro). Landing a star in the near future for Miami is most likely to occur through such a scenario. While Young wouldn't be their first choice if Giannis or Doncic were available, he wouldn't be the worst alternative. Given the Heat's apparent unwillingness to take another "gap" year, they are expected to seek a move soon. Young fits as a logical secondary option. The Heat still lacks a true primary scorer and dynamic playmaker, a role Young could potentially fill. Although Young isn't considered a franchise-altering superstar, which might explain Atlanta's potential hesitation on a massive extension, the Heat could see value in adding him to their developing supporting cast if they believe he's worth the investment. As the Heat lines up options for a blockbuster move in the next year, Young is likely included in their hypothetical plans.
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Nile Breweries Limited (NBL Uganda) and Next Media reaffirmed their strategic partnership during a meeting at Next Media Park, aiming to collaboratively produce impactful stories that inspire Uganda’s national development and transformation. The session involved leadership from both organizations reviewing recent joint successes, including the State of Ugandan Sport Symposium, NBS Economic Forum, and extensive coverage of local rugby events. These initiatives were credited with elevating public discourse and enhancing community engagement on key national issues. Representatives from both entities emphasized the critical role of purpose-driven partnerships in shaping national conversations and creating shared value. They highlighted mutual goals centered on uplifting communities, celebrating Ugandan excellence, and amplifying local voices. Next Media’s platforms—including NBS TV, NBS Sport, and AfroMobile—were recognized for effectively amplifying NBL Uganda’s initiatives across traditional and digital media channels, ensuring wide visibility and audience reach. Both organizations expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations to further advance Uganda’s social, economic, and cultural landscape, underscoring a shared commitment to ongoing partnership-driven progress. The meeting concluded with a unified message: purposeful collaboration between media and industry catalyzes tangible national transformation.
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Less than a month after winning the NBA championship and earning both the regular-season MVP and Finals MVP awards, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has resumed offseason workouts. As the cornerstone of the Oklahoma City Thunder, his performance is critical to the team's pursuit of a rare repeat title. Over the past four years, Gilgeous-Alexander has solidified his status among the NBA's elite, achieving four consecutive 30-point seasons, three All-NBA selections, and MVP honors by age 27. Despite the Thunder's shortened offseason following their late-June championship victory, he has already transitioned into training mode for the 2025-26 season, acknowledging the heightened target on the defending champions. July has been particularly eventful: Gilgeous-Alexander signed a supermax contract extension securing his tenure with Oklahoma City through 2031, and promptly returned to training. He is working with longtime private trainer Nem Ilic, focusing heavily on lower-body exercises. Social media glimpses of these sessions underscore his legendary work ethic. His unconventional journey—from lottery pick to MVP—has been fueled by relentless offseason dedication. As the article notes, his commitment during the NBA's summer break has been instrumental in forging his path to superstardom and sustaining championship-level performance.
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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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A viral interaction between Caitlin Clark and Jacy Sheldon highlighted Clark's reputation as a talkative WNBA player, positioning her as a potential successor to legendary trash-talker Diana Taurasi. However, an anonymous WNBA player poll by The Athletic revealed that Clark has not yet claimed the title of the league's foremost trash-talker. The poll of 33 players identified Phoenix Mercury's Alyssa Thomas as the top trash-talker, receiving 13 votes. She was followed by Minnesota's Courtney Williams (5 votes), Connecticut's Marina Mabrey (4 votes), and Seattle's Skylar Diggins-Smith (2 votes). Clark and Indiana Fever teammate Sophie Cunningham each received only one vote. Players described Thomas's aggressive style, with one noting, "Everyone knows AT talks s—. I don’t even guard her, and she talks s— to me." Another called her approach "psycho stuff," emphasizing how she smiles while trash-talking. Thomas, nicknamed "The Engine," leads the WNBA in total assists (142) and assists per game (9.5) this season. Thomas's performance has propelled Phoenix to a 14-6 record, making her a strong MVP candidate. While Clark shows emerging trash-talking prowess, the poll suggests the two-time All-Star must further develop this skill to reach Thomas's level in future seasons.
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ESPN will honor WNBA star Diana Taurasi and USWNT legend Alex Morgan with the shared Icon Award at the 2025 ESPYS. The award recognizes their incredible careers and significant impact on sports, following Nick Saban who received it last year. Diana Taurasi, an 11-time WNBA All-Star widely considered one of basketball's greatest players and voted the WNBA's GOAT in 2021, retired as the league's all-time leading scorer (10,646 points) and ranks fourth in assists (2,394). Her team achievements include three WNBA championships (with two Finals MVPs), three NCAA titles at UConn, and six Olympic gold medals. Alex Morgan, an Olympic gold medalist (2012) and two-time World Cup winner (2015, 2019), is a key figure in the USWNT's "golden generation," earning 224 caps and scoring 123 goals (fifth all-time). At the club level, she won a treble with Olympique Lyonnais (2016-17), the WPS title with Western New York Flash (2011), and the NWSL championship with Portland Thorns (2013). Off the pitch, Morgan played a pivotal role in the USWNT's successful fight for pay equity, achieved in 2022.
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Stephen Curry's placement in Bleacher Report's Top 100 NBA Players of All Time list, where he ranks 10th, has sparked significant debate. While universally acknowledged as an all-time great, the greatest shooter ever, a four-time champion, and a two-time MVP, his exact position on the all-time list is contentious. Bleacher Report justified Curry's high ranking by emphasizing his transformative impact on the game, surpassing even LeBron James in reshaping basketball. They highlighted that beyond his shooting, Curry uniquely leverages his gravity to exhaust defenses in multiple ways, making his teams fundamentally better. His scalability to play alongside anyone and his one-of-a-kind qualitative and stylistic impact were also cited, arguing the Warriors' success peaks with him. The primary controversy stems from Curry being ranked directly above Kobe Bryant at number 11. Many, particularly younger generations, consider Bryant one of the greatest players ever, making Curry's placement ahead of him a point of contention. Conversely, others argue Curry's ranking at 10 is too low. They point out he has more championships than Larry Bird (ranked 8th), more MVPs than Shaquille O'Neal (ranked 6th), and the same number of All-NBA selections as Magic Johnson (ranked 4th), despite playing in a more competitive league era.
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The Phoenix Suns have been active in retooling their roster this offseason following their failure to make the playoffs last season, focusing their rebuild around star player Devin Booker. Key offseason moves include trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, acquiring Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, and drafting Khaman Maluach, Koby Brea, and Rasheer Fleming. A major move was signing Devin Booker to a two-year, $145 million contract extension last week, a record-setting deal that locks him with the Suns for the foreseeable future, demonstrating their commitment to building around him and returning to contention. Suns legend Charles Barkley, appearing on The Dan Patrick Show, commented on the massive extension, calling Booker "the luckiest dude in the world" for getting paid "$70M a year to dribble a stupid basketball." Barkley, known for criticizing NBA player contracts since retirement, believes Booker should be extremely happy. The extension keeps Booker with the Suns through the 2029-30 season, highlighting his loyalty to the franchise despite their recent struggles.
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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 Boston Celtics are undergoing significant roster changes this offseason, losing four key players from the past two seasons due to financial constraints, a situation that has been challenging for fans despite its predictability. A last-minute addition to their Summer League roster is highlighted as a potential offseason steal. Star forward Jayson Tatum will be absent for most or all of the 2025-26 season while recovering from an Achilles injury sustained in the second round of the 2025 playoffs against the New York Knicks, an injury that derailed their championship hopes. Celtics president Brad Stevens provided an encouraging update, stating Tatum is improving daily and rehabilitating diligently, emphasizing his competitive nature. Tatum's injury severely diminishes the team's title contention prospects for the upcoming season. Jaylen Brown is set to lead the offense, with support from players like Derrick White and Payton Pritchard, but this may not be sufficient for genuine championship contention or even strong competition in the Eastern Conference. Last season, Tatum delivered a standout performance, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game over 72 games. Additionally, the Celtics' $285 million contract has been named one of the worst in the NBA, and a major free agent acquisition has revealed his reasons for choosing Boston.
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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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Diana Taurasi is recognized as one of the WNBA's biggest stars, significantly impacting the league's direction. She spent her entire professional career with the Phoenix Mercury after being drafted by them in 2004, achieving numerous accomplishments including championships and record-breaking performances. Her legendary status with the Mercury is cemented, and her jersey retirement is anticipated. Taurasi's journey began during her highly successful college career at UConn. In the 2003-04 season, she led the Huskies to a 31-4 record, starting with a nine-game win streak before suffering losses to Duke and Notre Dame. UConn cruised through the NCAA tournament, defeating teams like Auburn, Penn State, and Minnesota, ultimately winning the championship by beating Tennessee in a rematch of the previous year's final. During that championship 2003-04 season, Taurasi averaged 16.2 points, 4.9 assists, and 1.5 steals, earning her second Most Outstanding Player award. The previous season (2002-03), where UConn lost only one game, she averaged 17.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 blocks, winning her first Most Outstanding Player award after beating Tennessee in the final. Taurasi's college success translated to the WNBA. Although it took a few seasons for the Mercury to reach the playoffs after drafting her, they won a championship early in her career. She led the team through many successful seasons thereafter. Now that her playing days are over, the Mercury organization aims to carry on her winning tradition with their current talented roster, which is performing at a high level and has the potential to win another championship.
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Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum suffered an Achilles injury during the team's playoff series against the New York Knicks, contributing to their elimination. Celtics president Brad Stevens provided an encouraging update on Tatum's recovery during a summer league broadcast, noting the player is rehabilitating diligently with a competitive mindset following immediate surgery. Stevens emphasized Tatum has remained in Boston for daily rehabilitation over the past 50 days instead of taking his usual offseason break, describing his progress as mentally and physically challenging but impressive. Tatum's prompt decision to undergo surgery may shorten his recovery timeline, though Achilles injuries typically require extensive rehabilitation. The Celtics anticipate being without their primary superstar for most, if not all, of the upcoming season due to the injury's severity and standard recovery period. This extended absence has forced roster adjustments to comply with salary cap restrictions under the second apron. The departures of key players like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis have left the team significantly shorthanded, resulting in a bleak outlook for the next season. The Celtics now view this period as a "gap year" focused on salary cap management and acquiring affordable talent. Looking beyond this season, the organization is targeting the 2026 offseason—aligning with Tatum's expected full recovery—to pursue major signings and rebuild competitiveness.
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LeBron James opted into his player option with the Los Angeles Lakers, but his future with the team remains uncertain as the franchise shifts focus toward building around Luka Doncic rather than pursuing immediate championship contention. While a trade involving James is considered unlikely, rumors are circulating about potential moves, including one to the New York Knicks. A specific trade scenario proposed by Bleacher Report's Dan Favale suggests a 1-for-1 swap where James would be traded to the Knicks in exchange for Karl-Anthony Towns. This deal would integrate James into a Knicks lineup featuring Mikal Bridges, Mitchell Robinson, Jalen Brunson, and OG Anunoby. For the Knicks, James' addition could significantly reduce pressure on Brunson by allowing him to play off the ball more often and rest during possessions, leveraging James' passing and scoring abilities. Defensively, pairing James with Robinson could enhance the team's overall performance. For the Lakers, acquiring Towns—a five-time All-Star and skilled offensive big man—could create a strong pairing with Doncic, as Towns' floor-spacing ability complements Doncic's playmaking. Towns is under contract until 2028-29, with a player option for $61 million in 2027-28, providing the Lakers with cost certainty through his prime years. However, potential downsides include the Knicks' motivation to offload Towns' hefty contract, which could total over $160 million in the next three seasons. Towns' defensive limitations against quicker players, combined with Doncic's own defensive struggles, might make this pairing risky for the Lakers in terms of cap management and team balance. Adding to the speculation, LeBron James has acknowledged considering a move to the Knicks earlier in his career, further fueling discussions about this possibility.
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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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Brandon Ingram joined the Toronto Raptors in February 2025 but has yet to play for the team due to injury. Despite his absence, the organization demonstrated strong faith in him by signing him to a three-year, $120 million contract extension. Ingram reciprocates this trust, expressing belief in the team's direction and predicting a postseason run. The Raptors are entering a new era following Masai Ujiri's departure, with Ingram positioned as a key star alongside cornerstone player Scottie Barnes. This partnership allows Barnes greater offensive freedom while Ingram provides go-to scoring and playmaking. The team's disappointing 30-52 record in the 2024-25 season saw them finish 11th in the Eastern Conference, narrowly missing the Play-In Tournament. Ingram is set to return for the 2025-26 season, bolstering a roster that includes RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley. He publicly declared playoff expectations, praising the team's defensive identity and hard-nosed play on both ends of the court. Ingram emphasized his commitment to maintaining their defensive intensity, stating he must match their effort level. The weakened Eastern Conference landscape—with teams like the Celtics potentially missing Jayson Tatum and the Pacers possibly without Tyrese Haliburton due to injuries—creates an opportunity for the Raptors to emerge as a surprise contender. Teammates have praised Ingram's ego-free approach, further solidifying team chemistry. With Barnes and Ingram forming an All-Star-caliber duo and a supportive cast, the Raptors aim to capitalize on these conditions to return to playoff contention.
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The news covers two upcoming WNBA matchups: Dallas Wings vs. Indiana Fever: The Dallas Wings (6-15) are on a two-game losing streak and playing the final game of a road trip. They have a poor 2-9 road record. Key Wings players: Paige Bueckers is averaging 20.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.5 steals over her last 10 games. Arike Ogunbowale (averaging 16.8 points, 2.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.5 steals) is expected to return Sunday. Li Yueru and JJ Quinerly are coming off solid performances. The Indiana Fever (10-10) ended a two-game losing streak with a win over Atlanta and are playing the final game of a homestand. They have a 6-6 home record. Key Fever players: Caitlin Clark has struggled with shooting (9-for-27 in two games since returning from injury) but faces a Wings defense that allows the league's third-highest FG% to opposing guards. Kelsey Mitchell scored a team-high 25 points in the last game, her second 25-point game in four outings. Aliyah Boston and Natasha Howard have both scored 20+ points within the last three games. Betting Line: Fever favored by 10.0 points. Over/Under total points set at 175.0. Atlanta Dream vs. New York Liberty: The only information provided for this game is the betting line: Liberty favored by 3.5 points. Over/Under total points set at 167.5. The news includes a general note that all player return dates mentioned are estimates.
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With Jayson Tatum anticipated to miss most of the 2025-26 NBA season due to an Achilles tear, Jaylen Brown is expected to shoulder increased responsibility for the Boston Celtics. Brown expressed readiness for this challenge during a conversation on Kyrie Irving’s Twitch livestream, where they debated Brown’s NBA 2K video game rating of 92 overall. Brown acknowledged that his full potential has been masked by the Celtics' deep roster, requiring him to prioritize team success over individual stats. Irving, however, argued Brown deserved a 94 or 95 rating, citing Brown’s dominant offensive performance in the 2024 NBA Finals—where Brown averaged around 30 points and disrupted Irving’s Mavericks defensively. Brown respected Irving’s view but reiterated his commitment to team sacrifices without disputing the 92 rating. Despite consistently averaging 20+ points for six seasons and earning four All-Star selections, Brown has often been the Celtics' secondary scorer behind Tatum. He demonstrated his capability as a primary option in the 2024 Finals, particularly with a near 30-point triple-double in Game 3 and elite defense on Luka Dončić, earning Finals MVP honors. Celtics president Brad Stevens affirmed Brown’s readiness for the lead role in 2025-26, highlighting his strong performances in playoff games without Tatum. However, Brown is also rehabilitating from offseason arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a partially torn meniscus.
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The Minnesota Timberwolves are aiming to become consistent NBA Finals contenders, with their young stars seen as key to that goal. Several of these players, including second-year guards Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr., along with first-round draft pick Joan Beringer, are currently showcasing their skills at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. These players have impressed in the Timberwolves' early Summer League games. Notably, Joan Beringer tied a Summer League record with seven blocks during his debut performance. Star player Anthony Edwards attended the team's recent Summer League game against the Denver Nuggets, a 94-83 Timberwolves victory, sitting courtside to show support. During the game, Edwards interacted with a young fan wearing a Jamal Murray Nuggets jersey, signing an autograph on a ball cap for him. The Timberwolves' social media team capitalized on this moment, posting a video of the interaction on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption "@nuggets, y'all seeing this?". This was widely perceived as the team trolling the Nuggets, a challenging opponent they didn't face in the previous postseason. Fans reacted positively to the post, with comments like "Let the admin cook" accompanied by laughing and fire emojis.
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Raunak is a passionate WWE content writer who crafts engaging narratives that vividly bring the wrestling world to life. His writing focuses on capturing the inherent drama, excitement, and heroism of the ring, fueling the imagination of WWE fans. His goal is to make every match and storyline unforgettable for the audience. The provided content also lists several other headlines: Divyanka Tripathi showcasing ethnic elegance; a photo gallery of Varalaxmi Sarathkumar's stylish looks; baby names predicted to make a comeback in 2025; nine health benefits of consuming Torai (ridge gourd); eight health benefits of regularly drinking honey and cinnamon water; ten snake species commonly spotted in India during monsoon; Bollywood-inspired bridal aesthetics featuring styles from Alia Bhatt (chrome) and Anushka Sharma (pastels); Helly Shah displaying glamorous looks; powerful quotes by Marilyn Monroe relevant for women today; and nine plant species endemic to India.
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The Phoenix Mercury are positioned as strong title contenders this season, possessing the talent to challenge top teams like the Minnesota Lynx and the New York Liberty. With a current record of 14-6, they are on pace to surpass last season's 19-win total and potentially finish as champions. The article highlights the franchise's history, noting periods of struggle where they became a lottery team, resulting in them receiving the No. 1 overall draft pick three times. The first pick in 2004 was used to select Diana Taurasi, who became the WNBA's all-time leading scorer and had an immediate impact, winning Rookie of the Year. Her selection marked the beginning of a legendary career and franchise success. In 2007, the Mercury again held the No. 1 pick, drafting Lindsey Harding. However, she was traded to Minnesota on draft day for Tangela Smith. Despite this trade, Phoenix won its first championship that same year. Harding later signed with the Mercury in 2016, playing 21 games. Following a poor 7-27 season in 2012, the Mercury secured another No. 1 pick, selecting Brittney Griner. Griner made a significant impact in her rookie season, and the Mercury won the championship the following year. Both Griner and Taurasi played pivotal roles in turning the franchise around. The article concludes by noting that while the Mercury may not need the top pick soon, any future player selected first overall would have substantial expectations to meet, given the legacy of previous top picks.
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Team USA has dominated Olympic women's basketball, winning 10 gold medals in 13 appearances, including eight consecutive golds since 1996. The U.S. teams have featured numerous stars, including several players from the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury who contributed to gold medal victories. Notable players mentioned include Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson, and Sue Bird. Diana Taurasi, a key Mercury player, joined the Olympic team in 2004 alongside players like Leslie and Swoopes. That year, Team USA secured gold after blowout wins over New Zealand, Spain, and Greece, defeating Russia in the semifinal (66-62) and Australia in the final. In the 2008 Olympics, Taurasi was joined by fellow Mercury player Cappie Pondexter. Team USA dominated again, beating Australia 92-65 for the gold medal. Taurasi played again in 2012, serving as the team's leading scorer (averaging 12.4 points). The team, featuring players like Candace Parker and Maya Moore, and with Mercury alumna Jennifer Gillom as an assistant coach, won gold while continuing their dominance. For the 2016 Olympics, Taurasi was joined by Mercury teammate Brittney Griner. Taurasi led the team in scoring (15.6 ppg), while Griner led in rebounding (5.9 rpg). Team USA defeated Spain 101-72 in the final to win gold and extend their streak. Taurasi and Griner returned for the 2020 Olympics, joined by Mercury teammate Skylar Diggins-Smith. This trio helped lead Team USA to another gold medal victory. In her final Olympic appearance in 2024, Taurasi was joined by Griner and new Mercury teammate Kahleah Copper. The trio represented Team USA, which won gold after a close 67-66 victory over France. Throughout this period of dominance, players from the Phoenix Mercury franchise have played a significant role for Team USA, and the franchise is expected to continue contributing to future success.
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This feature highlights top high school basketball talent from California since 2000, emphasizing high school accolades, on-court dominance, legacy, and influence. It profiles several elite players: LaMelo Ball: Ball starred at Chino Hills, averaging 27.5 PPG as a sophomore after helping win a state title as a freshman. He famously scored 92 points in a single game. Skipping college, he played professionally in Australia before being drafted 3rd overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 2020. He won NBA Rookie of the Year and is a 2022 All-Star, averaging 21 PPG in his career. Kawhi Leonard: Though ranked 56th in the 2009 ESPN 100, Leonard led Martin Luther King High to a 30-3 record and a CIF-SS D1-AA title, averaging 22.6 PPG and 13.1 RPG as a senior. He excelled at San Diego State, winning MWC Freshman of the Year. Drafted 15th in 2011, he has won two NBA championships, two Finals MVP awards, and two Defensive Player of the Year awards. Evan Mobley: As a senior at Rancho Christian in 2020, Mobley averaged 20.5 PPG, 12.2 RPG, and 5.2 BPG, earning Morgan Wooten National Player of the Year and his second Gatorade State POY award (ranked 3rd ESPN 100). At USC, he made history by winning Pac-12 Player, Freshman, and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season. Drafted 3rd overall in 2021 by Cleveland, he was Rookie of the Year runner-up. Jrue Holiday: Holiday was ranked 4th in the 2008 ESPN 100 after averaging 25.9 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 6.9 APG, and 4.8 SPG, leading Campbell Hall to a Division IV state title and winning Gatorade National Player of the Year. After one season at UCLA (Pac-10 All-Freshman), he was drafted 17th in 2009. In 16 NBA seasons, he has won two NBA titles, been a two-time All-Star, and made three All-Defensive First Teams. Jalen Green: Green averaged 31.5 PPG, 7.5 RPG, and 5 APG as a senior for Prolific Prep (31-3, Grind Session champs), finishing as the #1 player in the 2020 ESPN 100. He chose the G League over college, averaging 17.9 PPG. Drafted 2nd overall by Houston in 2021, he has averaged 20.1 PPG in his NBA career. Diana Taurasi: Taurasi dominated as a senior at Don Antonio Lugo in 2000, averaging 28.8 PPG, 12.9 RPG, and 4.2 APG, winning both Naismith and Parade Magazine National Player of the Year. At UConn, she won National Player of the Year twice and led the team to three straight national titles. In her 20-year WNBA career, she is the league's all-time leading scorer, won Rookie of the Year, three WNBA titles, and made 11 All-Star teams.
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The NBA Summer League is underway in Las Vegas, providing an opportunity for franchises to evaluate their players. Among the participants is Terrence Shannon Jr. of the Minnesota Timberwolves, who played a prominent role in the opening game. Shannon enters the Summer League following a rookie season with limited playing time (32 games, 1 start), averaging 4.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists while shooting 35.5% from three-point range. Despite showing potential, the Timberwolves' depth restricted his opportunities, leading many fans to advocate for more minutes. The article emphasizes that the 2025 Summer League represents a critical proving ground for Shannon. A strong performance is seen as essential for him to secure a consistent role in the Timberwolves' rotation and avoid assignment to the G-League. Shannon made a significant impact in the Timberwolves' opening Summer League victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. He scored 20 points, shooting 6-of-14 from the field and a perfect 6-of-6 from the free-throw line. While his three-point shooting was lower (22.2%), his overall skill set impressed. The standout aspects of Shannon's game were his ability to create his own space using handles and quick moves, his scoring versatility (shooting from range or driving), and his playmaking. He effectively drew defenders and dished the ball to open teammates, demonstrating excellent court vision with cross-court passes. With minutes and production previously filled by players like Nickeil Alexander-Walker now available, the article positions Shannon as the leading candidate to claim that role based on his Summer League performance, suggesting he is proving he belongs at the NBA level.
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Olympiacos has finalized an agreement with the Greek government to gain operational control of the Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF). The club formally accepted the current legislative status concerning the stadium's surrounding area, clearing the path to sign a long-term license. This follows previous details provided by Deputy Sports Minister Giannis Vroutsis on the requirements to complete the deal. This arrangement mirrors a similar deal signed in 2023, where Panathinaikos Aktor was granted control of the OAKA Altion arena for 49 years. Olympiacos was recently crowned the Stoiximan GBL champion in Greece. Since 1993, the Greek league championship has almost exclusively been won by either Olympiacos or Panathinaikos, with AEK's 2002 title being the sole exception. Both clubs have also dominated the EuroLeague, winning a combined ten titles since Panathinaikos first won in 1996 (Panathinaikos: 7, Olympiacos: 3). Both rivals are actively preparing for the 2025-26 season. Olympiacos has signed Kostas Antetokounmpo and Tyson Ward, while Panathinaikos has added Giannis Kouzeloglou, T.J. Shorts II, and Vassilis Toliopoulos. Both teams are projected to contend for the EuroLeague championship next season and are widely expected to meet again in the GBL Finals.
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