Stay updated with the latest sports news from TigerSport. Get real-time updates, expert analysis, player insights, and breaking headlines across football, basketball, and more.
The Phoenix Suns have bought out Bradley Beal, removing him from their roster but creating significant long-term financial issues. To avoid the punitive second tax apron, the Suns were forced to waive-and-stretch Beal's contract. This results in $19.4 million of "dead money" counting against their salary cap annually for the next five seasons, a charge they cannot eliminate and must pay through the 2030 campaign. Despite Beal's solid on-court production last season (17 points per game on efficient shooting), his massive salary and no-trade clause eliminated any trade market. Beal had to approve any potential trade and was unwilling to leave Phoenix. This lack of options left the Suns facing only two choices: buy him out or keep paying the remaining $110.8 million over two years. The buyout was chosen. The Suns received nothing in return for Beal because he refused to waive his no-trade clause. While Beal did give back enough money to facilitate the contract stretching, this was the sole concession. Beal is now free to join a contender, specifically the LA Clippers, while still receiving substantial payments from the Suns. The Suns' acquisition of Beal is portrayed as a major mistake. They paid him star-level money (nearly $97 million) for what amounted to role player production over two seasons where he played only 53 games each year. The team failed to win any playoff games during his tenure, falling short of championship expectations. The financial burden continues as the $19.4 million cap hold prevents Phoenix from spending that money on players who could help them win for the next five years, hindering efforts to build around Devin Booker. Although the buyout saves the Suns $200 million this season, pushing them below the luxury tax line and aprons and providing some roster flexibility, it introduces a new set of problems lasting until 2030. Beal emerges as the clear winner, getting paid by Phoenix while freely joining his chosen team. The article concludes that while the buyout was necessary, the Suns will regret the original Beal trade and feel its painful financial consequences for years, serving as a lesson about the risks of star power and no-trade clauses.
Views 5234Likes 3695
The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring the opportunity to acquire Damian Lillard after his unexpected waiver by the Milwaukee Bucks, amid uncertainty around LeBron James' future with the franchise. Matt Geist of Bleacher Report highlighted that adding Lillard would create the NBA's "most exciting offense," pairing him with Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Deandre Ayton for a formidable lineup. Financially, the Lakers have flexibility to facilitate the deal by absorbing Jake LaRavia and Ayton's contracts using cap space from Dorian Finney-Smith's departure to Houston. Beyond roster construction, Geist emphasized this move would demonstrate commitment to winning for LeBron while solving backcourt needs, stating, "you go out and you do it... proving to LeBron we’re still all in." Personal factors increase the appeal: Lillard grew up in California, and joining the NBA's largest market alongside elite co-stars like Dončić, Austin Reaves, and Ayton represents a significant upgrade from Milwaukee. However, Lillard's Achilles injury creates timeline uncertainty—he may miss all of 2025-26, with a possible late playoff return being risky without proper ramp-up. Geist suggested a realistic scenario involves Lillard teaming with Dončić for the 2026-27 season once fully healthy, potentially after LeBron's departure. Despite injury concerns, Lillard's waived status makes him a high-value bargain, and acquiring him could influence LeBron to reconsider leaving Los Angeles.
Views 5461Likes 5460
The seedings for the 2025-26 EuroLeague Women Regular Season have been confirmed ahead of the draw scheduled for July 23 in Munich. Reigning champions ZVVZ USK Praha are among the top-seeded teams, joined by Fenerbahce Opet, CIMSA CBK Mersin, and Beretta Famila Schio, all participants in last season's inaugural Final Six. The 16 participating clubs will be divided into four groups of four for the Regular Season. Eleven teams earned direct entry, while the remaining five spots will be filled by winners from the Qualifiers. The seedings were determined based on the three-year ranking of clubs in European Club Competitions. A draw restriction limits groups to a maximum of one club from the same country. Ten clubs will compete in the EuroLeague Women Qualifiers, playing home-and-away series on September 17 and 24, to determine the five remaining Regular Season spots; the seeded club in each pairing will host the return leg. The Qualifiers participants are: Galatasaray Cagdas Factoring (TUR), Tango Bourges Basket (FRA), Casademont Zaragoza (ESP), Umana Reyer Venezia (ITA), DVTK HUNTHERM (HUN), Zabiny Brno (CZE), AZS UMCS Lublin (POL), ACS Sepsi-SIC (ROU), Kibirkstis Vilnius (LTU), and KKZ Crvena Zvezda (SRB). The five winning teams from the Qualifiers will advance to the EuroLeague Women Regular Season. The losing clubs from the Qualifiers will automatically enter the EuroCup Women Regular Season.
Views 3816Likes 2782
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.
Views 3940Likes 2589
Golden State Warriors guard Moses Moody has been elected to the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) Board of Directors. The announcement was made in Las Vegas, confirming the fourth-year pro and starter for the Warriors will join Memphis Grizzlies forward Santi Aldama on the board. The NBPA is the union representing NBA players. According to an NBPA press release, Moody and Aldama will join a panel responsible for deciding how to distribute philanthropic resources for both current and former NBA players. In a joint statement, Moody expressed their honor in joining the NBPA Foundation's Board of Directors, stating their goal is to support players and uplift communities. He emphasized that philanthropy and social responsibility are core to players and this role allows them to elevate their involvement in the Foundation's work. Moody, who averaged 9.8 points per game and was Golden State's top perimeter defender last season, has a background in philanthropy. He founded the Motivate One Foundation and has also served as a coach at a Basketball Without Borders camp in South Africa. Moody is currently recovering from thumb surgery performed on his dominant right hand in May. He is expected to be ready for the start of Warriors training camp in October.
Views 4931Likes 3337
Steph Curry expressed a lack of concern regarding the Golden State Warriors' minimal offseason moves thus far, contrasting with disappointment felt elsewhere in the NBA, including from teammate Draymond Green. Speaking at the American Century Championship, Curry explained his patience and trust in the Warriors' front office, highlighting the difference between external narratives and internal communication. He stated he understands the situation and retains confidence in the team's ability to assemble a winning roster for the upcoming season. The Warriors face significant offseason challenges, primarily the unresolved restricted free agency of Jonathan Kuminga nearly two weeks into free agency. Additionally, the team saw long-time fan favorite Kevon Looney depart after a decade, signing with the New Orleans Pelicans. These issues compound the lingering disappointment from the Warriors' second-round playoff exit following Curry's injury. Despite these challenges, Curry maintains faith in the organization. He addressed his new role as co-assistant general manager for Davidson's basketball program, clarifying that it won't interfere with his relationship with Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy. Curry emphasized their strong communication chain and stated he has no intention of overstepping his bounds, acknowledging roster building is the front office's job. He stressed the importance of everyone within the organization performing their roles effectively to solve the annual "puzzle" of building a contender, pointing to the team's strong performance late last season as a foundation to build upon.
Views 3717Likes 2818
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.
Views 5806Likes 1521
Anadolu Efes officially announced on Monday that they have signed guard Nick Weiler-Babb to a 2+1 contract. This move was anticipated after Eurohoops reported in mid-June that the 29-year-old was expected to join the Istanbul-based club. To facilitate the transfer to the fellow EuroLeague team, Weiler-Babb was recently formally released by his previous club, FC Bayern Munich. Weiler-Babb is coming off an impressive season where his outstanding defensive performances earned him the EuroLeague Best Defender award for the 2024-25 season. He spent the last five years with Bayern Munich, making 161 appearances in the EuroLeague during that time. In the 2024-25 EuroLeague season, he averaged 8.2 points, 4.9 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game across 34 starts. He helped Bayern, coached by Gordon Herbert, finish 9th in the Regular Season and qualify for the Play-In Showdown, though they ultimately fell short of reaching the Playoffs. In the German easyCredit BBL last season, Weiler-Babb averaged 6.6 points, 5.3 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per contest. His contributions were key in helping Bayern secure their second consecutive domestic league championship. During his time in Germany, he also won the BBL-Pokal three times. Since 2022, Weiler-Babb has been a member of the German senior national team, participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and winning a bronze medal at EuroBasket 2022. Weiler-Babb's signing is part of Anadolu Efes's ongoing roster restructuring for the 2025-26 season. The club has already appointed Igor Kokoskov as the new head coach and added David Mutaf to their perimeter. They are also reportedly in advanced talks to sign Isaia Cordinier. With players like Salih Altuntas, Rodrigue Beaubois, PJ Dozier Jr., Shane Larkin, Ercan Osmani, Vincent Poirier, and Erkan Yilmaz already under contract, further moves are expected to finalize the squad.
Views 3628Likes 3609
The article features an interview with New York Liberty basketball player Breanna Stewart discussing her essential everyday products. She emphasizes the importance of Color Wow hair spray in her game-day routine, specifically for creating a secure, slick top knot that withstands intense activity despite her thick hair. Stewart expresses a long-standing loyalty to Versace Bright Crystal perfume, appreciating its balanced floral scent that isn't overly girly. She applies it before walking onto the court and again at halftime, stating it makes her feel like herself and she dislikes alternatives. Her essential travel toiletry bag, kept at Barclays Center and taken on the road, contains her Color Wow hair spray, basic brushes from stores like CVS or Target, Supergoop! face lotion, her Versace perfume, and Native Cucumber & Mint deodorant, which she likes for its cucumber scent. Stewart enjoys reading mystery thrillers, particularly books by Frieda McFadden, starting with "The Housemaid" series. She reads extensively on airplanes while traveling without her kids. Her team also has a book club, recently finishing "The Silent Patient," where members discuss the books during travel, enjoying the different perspectives shared. While not her everyday cleanser, Stewart relies on the Clinique cleansing balm to effectively remove heavy makeup after events or appearances, finding it especially helpful for stubborn mascara without excessive effort, much to her wife Marta's amusement.
Views 5195Likes 1348
The Philadelphia 76ers have had a quiet offseason, largely due to constraints stemming from last summer's major signings. With significant money tied up in players like Paul George and Joel Embiid, and the restrictive "second apron" looming, the team has limited financial flexibility for major moves. Team president Daryl Morey's philosophy also contributes, as he avoids trades without receiving value in return, exemplified by holding onto Tobias Harris throughout his contract. The team faces challenges with its core assets. Trading Paul George or Joel Embiid is currently impractical because their value is low due to large contracts and injury histories; moving them would likely require attaching valuable assets like draft picks or young players, which isn't desirable. While Tyrese Maxey is a highly valuable young star, trading him makes no sense. Other players like Jared McCain (needing more evaluation), Kelly Oubre Jr. (valuable now or later), and young players hold more value to the Sixers than they would likely return in a trade. Given these limitations, the Sixers focused on marginal additions. They signed Trendon Watford to a minimum contract, viewing him as an intriguing piece who could play a significant role alongside the guards and stars. Jabari Walker and Dominick Barlow were added on two-way deals, providing depth at needed positions while fitting a younger, more dynamic profile. However, the article argues the Sixers are in a difficult position largely of their own making. The "all-in" moves of signing George and extending Embiid had disastrous results in year one due to injuries. While trading the stars now would be costly, making another major win-now move is senseless given their health uncertainty. This leaves the team stuck in a "dual timeline" corner, trying to compete now while also developing youth. The strategy going forward is clear: hope for health from Embiid and George, but prepare for the opposite. If Embiid misses time, young big men like Adem Bona, Johni Broome, and the newly signed forwards (Watford, Walker, Barlow) will see increased roles, with a reported organizational mandate for a youth movement. If George is injured, Coach Nick Nurse will experiment heavily with three-guard lineups featuring Maxey, McCain, rookie VJ Edgecombe, and Quentin Grimes, needing to assess their fit and defensive capabilities. Despite the lack of headline moves, the team is expected to look significantly different next season due to these internal developments and the integration of young players, even if the core stars remain the same.
Views 5183Likes 398
NBA star Jayson Tatum's Achilles injury is unfortunate and challenging to witness, impacting the Boston Celtics significantly. Beyond existing cost-cutting measures planned for next season, his injury will force the team to make further difficult decisions. There is hope Tatum will overcome this setback as he has previous adversities, such as proving doubters wrong by winning a championship and improving aspects of his game when asked. However, this injury recovery is potentially his toughest challenge yet. Celtics executive Brad Stevens reports Tatum is doing well in his recovery. Stevens acknowledged the inherent difficulty of rehab, describing it as a mental and physical challenge, but emphasized Tatum underwent surgery immediately and possesses a determined mindset focused on attacking the rehab process. Tatum's return timeline remains uncertain, with speculation suggesting he could potentially return for the 2025-2026 season, though others believe a 2026-2027 return is more likely.
Views 3948Likes 2179
Partizan Belgrade plans to host some of its EuroLeague home games during the 2025-26 season outside of Serbia, according to club president Ostoja Mijailovic. He stated the club intends to play games in countries or cities "that aren't particularly popular basketball-wise" but where Partizan has connections, aiming to create a "real spectacle" for those locations, the club, its diaspora, and its fans. Mijailovic specifically noted Partizan's strong fan presence at away games in cities like Munich (Germany) and Paris (France), as well as the existence of significant Serbian diaspora communities in European countries such as Austria and Switzerland, which are not traditionally known for basketball. These latter countries are suggested as potential examples of the type of locations he envisions for these games. The opportunity arises due to the EuroLeague expanding from 18 to 20 teams, adding four more games to Partizan's schedule. Furthermore, Partizan's Stark Arena in Belgrade will be unavailable from January 10th to 25th, 2026, as it hosts the European Polo Championship. This arena conflict prevents them from using their usual venues (Stark Arena or Pionir Hall) for those games. Mijailovic framed this situation as a chance to implement an unprecedented project by taking games abroad during that period.
Views 3053Likes 3032
Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal, a former All-Star with a substantial contract ($53 million this season and $57 million player option for next season), is reportedly nearing a contract buyout. This move would make him a free agent, allowing him to sign with any interested team during the NBA offseason. Despite the buyout possibility, the Cleveland Cavaliers are not considered a likely destination for Beal. According to a report from The Stein Line, multiple teams have expressed interest—including the Clippers, Lakers, Warriors, Timberwolves, and Bucks—but the Cavaliers were not named among potential suitors. The Clippers are viewed as particularly strong contenders to sign the 33-year-old guard. The Cavaliers have already reshaped their guard rotation this summer, adding Lonzo Ball and opting not to re-sign Ty Jerome, focusing on depth behind Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. These moves do not align with pursuing Beal, making Cleveland an improbable fit. While NBA scenarios remain fluid, Beal is more likely to join a West Coast team like the Lakers or Clippers than the Cavaliers.
Views 5844Likes 5241
The Indiana Fever secured a win against the Atlanta Dream on Friday night, but concerns about team chemistry surfaced during the game. This follows earlier chemistry issues that led to the team waiving disgruntled veteran DeWanna Bonner earlier in the season. A specific incident involving forward Natasha Howard and star rookie Caitlin Clark ignited fan frustration. During the final seconds of the third quarter, Howard refused to pass the ball to Clark on a fast break, instead walking the ball up court herself. Howard only passed after committing an uncalled traveling violation, effectively wasting the scoring opportunity. Fever fans expressed significant anger on social media, calling for Howard's release. They cited her apparent refusal to pass to Clark, referencing a preseason comment where Howard stated her goal was to be MVP, as evidence of a problematic attitude and "disdain" for Clark. Some fans labeled Howard a "bigger cancer" to the team than Bonner had been, arguing her actions hinder the team's success and that coach Stephanie White allows role players to disrespect stars. While the Fever signed Howard in the offseason for her championship experience and she contributes averages of 11.2 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, the article suggests the team might need to consider cutting her if the chemistry issues worsen, despite the move hurting their depth.
Views 3673Likes 2082
NBA reporters are gathering information at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Following Friday night events where both were seeking league intel, the reporter was startled by colleague Marc Stein, who was focused on his phone. The article will focus on the most discussed free agent news currently at the Summer League. It will provide vital updates regarding players Bradley Beal and Chris Paul. Additionally, the report will include numerous other significant items from the reporters' notebooks.
Views 5474Likes 4958
Kevin Quiambao delivered a career-high performance for the La Salle Green Archers in their UAAP Season 87 men's basketball game against rival Ateneo Blue Eagles. The reigning MVP scored 33 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and provided 2 assists, leading La Salle to an 80-65 victory at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, October 26. This win completed La Salle's season sweep of Ateneo and marked their seventh consecutive win. Quiambao was exceptionally efficient, shooting 10-of-22 from the field, including 5-of-11 from three-point range. He dominated throughout the game, scoring 18 points in the first half and continuing his strong play in the second half to surpass his previous career-high of 29 points. His performance helped La Salle build a lead as large as 18 points (72-54). Although Ateneo threatened a comeback in the fourth quarter with a 10-1 run, capped by a Sean Quitevis three-pointer that cut the deficit to 64-73 with 3:30 remaining, Quiambao responded decisively. He restored order with a two-handed slam dunk off an assist from Mike Phillips, sparking a 7-1 run that sealed the win for La Salle. La Salle head coach Topex Robinson emphasized the significance of the rivalry, stating that games against Ateneo are always highly valued and hard-fought, requiring composure against a team with a strong winning tradition. Mike Phillips contributed 4 points and 13 rebounds. With this win, La Salle, the first team to secure a Final Four berth, improved their record to 10-1 and achieved their first season sweep of Ateneo since 2013 (Season 76). Despite the victory, Quiambao remarked, "It’s a good win for us pero malayo pa kami sa gusto naming mapuntahan (but we’re still far from where we want to be)."
Views 2565Likes 2329
NBA insider Brian Windhorst has stated that a trade bringing LeBron James back to the Cleveland Cavaliers this offseason is nearly impossible due to significant financial hurdles. The Cavaliers cannot feasibly assemble a trade package to acquire James' substantial $52.6 million contract under the constraints of the NBA's new Collective Bargaining Agreement. Acquiring James would require Cleveland to "sell the farm," which the organization is unlikely to do for a player who might only have one or two seasons remaining in his career. Windhorst did not completely rule out James returning to Cleveland someday, but emphasized that it would only be realistic if James became a free agent and was willing to take a drastic pay cut. When asked specifically if the Cavaliers would sign James at the veteran minimum salary (around $3 million), Windhorst jokingly confirmed they would, speaking on behalf of the organization's past and present leadership. While Windhorst's minimum salary comments were partly in jest, he acknowledged that any team, including Cleveland, would sign the future Hall-of-Famer if he were available at that price. However, barring that highly unlikely scenario of James becoming a free agent and accepting a minimum deal, he is expected to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving Cavaliers fans to continue hoping for a reunion that isn't currently feasible.
Views 5487Likes 4074
The 50th AAU Girls Volleyball National Championships begin in Orlando, with 39 teams competing in the 14 Open division and 13 teams in the 18 Open division starting Wednesday. Historically, AAU Nationals were considered a low-key warm-up for USA Volleyball's Junior Olympics until the Junior Volleyball Association (JVA) formed in 2006. Many Midwest clubs then left USA Volleyball, abandoning Junior Olympics participation. An agreement between AAU and JVA reshaped the landscape: AAU supported JVA's April World Challenge, while JVA endorsed AAU Nationals and discontinued its own June championships. This partnership dramatically boosted AAU participation—from 612 teams in 2009 to over 1,200 in 2010, growing to a record 4,200 teams this year. The surge made AAU Nationals essential for college recruiting. USA Volleyball's 2016 decision to move its 18s championship to late April initially had minimal impact on AAU 18s attendance. However, AAU shifted its 18s to a standalone May event in 2019. Post-COVID, reverting to June led to declining elite participation: only 168 18s teams competed in 2021, with just 32 in top divisions. This year, 40 teams are in 18 Open and Premier (13 in the top tier), though lower divisions like 18 Club and Classic grew to 181 teams. Changes for 18s are anticipated, including adjustments to JVA's World Challenge. The 18 Open field lacks top-tier representation. Only two of its 13 teams—Kairos 18 Alpha (3rd at Junior Nationals) and USANY 18 Fortitude (47th)—attended Junior Nationals. No Junior Nationals Open division teams or traditional JVA powerhouses (e.g., KiVA, Tri-State) are competing. A club director attributes this to 18s becoming a "dying age group," as players prefer ending their season earlier unless teams include juniors. The 18 Open format involves two days of pool play (6-team and 7-team pools). The top four from each pool advance to two four-team pools on day three, culminating in semifinals and finals on the last day.
Views 4219Likes 2306
Lexi Donarski is beginning her professional basketball career in Hungary with TFSE-MTK after completing a five-year college career split between Iowa State (three seasons, 2020-23) and North Carolina (two seasons, 2023-25). Despite having earned her MBA, she has chosen to pursue basketball over a business career, at least for the immediate future. In interview highlights, Donarski explained her initial choice to play for Iowa State, citing her family's long-time fandom, the program's known players, and the exceptional game atmosphere, noting Iowa State's consistent top-three national attendance for women's basketball. She had attended games her whole life, participated in their elite camps since seventh grade, played in front of their coaches for years, and ultimately wanted to be part of the program and play for their fan base. Her reasons for transferring to North Carolina for her final two seasons were multifaceted: she graduated from Iowa State in three years and wanted to pursue her MBA, an opportunity not available to her there; she desired to move out of the Midwest and experience something new; and the chance to attend a great business school like UNC's was a major factor.
Views 5506Likes 5476
Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve expressed dissatisfaction with WNBA All-Star selections, arguing her league-leading team (17-2 record) deserved more than two All-Stars—Napheesa Collier (fan-voted captain) and Courtney Williams (coach-selected reserve). Reeve specifically noted players like Kayla McBride and Alanna Smith were overlooked while lower-ranked teams received multiple selections, citing the 9-9 Indiana Fever and 12-7 Seattle Storm (three All-Stars each) as examples. Reeve has a history of critical remarks toward Caitlin Clark, including alleged involvement in Clark's omission from the U.S. Olympic team. She further targeted Clark in a since-deleted social media post promoting a Lynx game, using hashtags "#theWismorethanoneplayer" and "#12teams" to downplay Clark's prominence. When a commenter suggested broadcasters "only care about Caitlin," Reeve replied "That part," reinforcing perceptions of her bitterness toward Clark's popularity.
Views 5605Likes 2163
Gabby Williams scored 16 points and Nneka Ogwumike added 15 to lead the Seattle Storm (12-7) to a 79-70 victory over the New York Liberty (12-6) on Sunday. The Storm trailed by three points at halftime but dominated the third quarter, outscoring New York 22-6. The Liberty shot only 2-for-18 from the field during the period, missing their first 10 shots. Skylar Diggins, Ogwumike, and Williams contributed offensively for Seattle, while rookie Dominique Malonga, the No. 2 draft pick, made a significant impact despite not playing in the first half. Malonga, a 6-foot-6 French forward, recorded 11 points and eight rebounds in just 10 minutes of action in the second half. She also altered several shots defensively against Breanna Stewart, who finished with only eight points – her first single-digit game since the 2024 season opener. New York suffered a setback when reserve forward Isabelle Harrison suffered a right knee injury with 2:31 remaining in the third quarter. She required assistance to leave the court and did not return, with coach Sandy Brondello stating Harrison would undergo imaging. The first half featured nine lead changes. New York established a slight cushion thanks to Sabrina Ionescu's four-point play with 13.8 seconds left in the second quarter, giving them a 44-39 lead before halftime (44-41). Ionescu, who missed the teams' first meeting two weeks prior due to a neck injury, scored 20 points in the first half but managed only two points in the second half, finishing with a team-high 22 points, along with five rebounds and four assists.
Views 5751Likes 5721
Virginia has signed 22-year-old Belgian forward Thijs de Ridder, who previously played for Bilbao Basket in Spain's Liga Endesa. De Ridder averaged 9.3 points per game and shot 38% from three-point range during the 2024-25 season. He represented Belgium at the 2023 FIBA U20 Games, averaging 16.9 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. His NCAA eligibility is pending approval, but his commitment is considered a significant offseason acquisition for head coach Ryan Odom. De Ridder joins German center Johann Grünloh as Virginia's second major international frontcourt addition, addressing concerns about the team's size. The Cavaliers' frontcourt now also includes UC-Irvine transfer Devin Tillis, Kansas State transfer Ugonna Onyenso, freshman Silas Barksdale, and returning sophomore Carter Lang. Standing 6'8" and 216 pounds, de Ridder is projected as a potential starter who can stretch the floor (35.6% three-point shooter in Liga Endesa) and play power forward. His versatility, ability to drive to the basket, rebounding, and three-point threat are expected to complement Virginia's offense and bolster interior play. Odom has a history of successfully recruiting international players, a trend continued at Virginia with assistance from associate head coach Griff Aldrich and assistants Bryce Crawford and Matt Henry. De Ridder's signing nearly completes next year's roster, which features a deep backcourt including transfers Dallin Hall (BYU), Jacari White (North Dakota State), and Malik Thomas (San Francisco, 19.9 PPG). His addition strengthens Virginia's frontcourt versatility and rebounding while creating opportunities for the team's shooters and playmakers.
Views 5992Likes 4830
Kevin Durant's trade to the Houston Rockets is official and represents the largest trade in NBA history, involving seven teams. This breaks the previous record of six teams set in a 2024 trade involving Klay Thompson. The seven teams involved in the Durant trade are: the Houston Rockets, Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, and Minnesota Timberwolves. While Kevin Durant is the major acquisition for the Rockets, the team will also reunite with center Clint Capela. In exchange for Durant, the Phoenix Suns receive a package of players highlighted by Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks.
Views 4643Likes 4609
Kai Sotto, a star player for Gilas Pilipinas and Koshigaya in Japan's B. League, is recovering after undergoing surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The 7'3" center announced the injury via Instagram on January 8, describing it as "the worst way to start the year" and "the darkest day of my basketball career," while expressing gratitude for the support received and faith in God's plan. In a recent health update shared on his Instagram Story, Sotto posted a photo post-surgery with the caption "Operation done. TYL." Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone confirmed Sotto will miss the FIBA Asia Cup in August, estimating a recovery period of 9-12 months due to the severity of ACL injuries, particularly for players of Sotto's height. Cone stated, "We're thinking maybe a year," but expressed hope Sotto might return during the World Cup qualifiers later in the recovery timeline.
Views 3792Likes 765
Josemarie Diaz will take his oath as reelected mayor of Ilagan City on Saturday, June 28, at 8 a.m. Later that same day, the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys, co-owned by the mayor's son Jeao Diaz, will play a home game in the MPBL. Home games are highly anticipated in the sports-passionate city, which is accustomed to hosting major events like the Palarong Pambansa, Asian Youth Athletics, Little League international baseball championships, and the Bakbakan Sa Ilagan boxing event. Further sporting events are scheduled, including PVL On Tour volleyball on July 12-13 and the second Bakbakan Sa Ilagan featuring WBF champion Wesley Caga in August. Adding international flavor, Ilagan City will host The Asian Tournament in August, where the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys will compete with imports. Mayor Diaz takes pride in establishing Ilagan City as a sports mecca in Cagayan Valley/Northern Luzon. He initiated the construction of the 10,000-seater Capital Arena, the Cowboys' home court for MPBL games, enabling the city to host more indoor sports and significant activities beyond its previous events like Little League Baseball, Asian Youth Athletics (which earned Patafa recognition), and Palarong Pambansa. Diaz also champions Ilagan as the Corn Capital. Focusing on sports success, the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys retooled their roster during the league's player movement period. Key acquisitions include Donald Gumaru (a former Barangay Ginebra PBA guard and Ilagan native, making his homecoming on June 28) via a trade involving Allen Mina, Jerie Pingoy (acquired from Rizal in exchange for Philip Manalang), Dennis Santos, Jayboy Solis, TH Tumalip, and Agem Miranda for added size. The team aims for a strong mid-season push and hopes for a prolonged campaign culminating in a "Cinderella Finish" to complement the city's sports program. Ilagan City seeks to maintain its momentum, viewing sports as synonymous with success. The article concludes with a rallying cry, "Sulong Ilagunenos!", expressing belief that anything is possible with community support.
Views 5854Likes 5821
The provided content lists several major sports leagues and categories: NHL (National Hockey League), CFL (Canadian Football League), MLB (Major League Baseball), Tennis, Soccer, NFL (National Football League), and NBA (National Basketball Association). It further includes additional sections such as TSN+ (a subscription service), Video content, Listen features, Betting services, and branded segments like The Shift and Bardown, followed by an ellipsis indicating more options.
Views 5079Likes 5046
The Chicago Sky, under first-year head coach Tyler Marsh, hold a 5-12 record (.294 winning percentage), the second-worst in the WNBA. Despite these struggles, individual performances have provided highlights, including Angel Reese's streak of five consecutive games with 15+ rebounds and veteran guard Ariel Atkins leading the team in scoring at 14.4 points per game. On Monday, the team highlighted Atkins via its "Stat of the Week," revealing she is one of only three WNBA players this season to record at least 200 points, 50 rebounds, 50 assists, 30 steals, and 10 blocks. The Sky celebrated this achievement with a social media post calling her "A leader on and off the court." Atkins became a cornerstone of Chicago's offseason rebuild when acquired in February in exchange for the Sky's 2025 No. 3 draft pick and future selections. A 2018 first-round pick by the Washington Mystics, she was a starter on their 2019 championship team, a two-time All-Star, and five-time All-Defensive team member. This season, she averages 14.4 points, 3.6 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.9 steals in 30.1 minutes per game over 17 contests. The Sky now prepare to face the Washington Mystics on Tuesday, followed by a three-game homestand against the Dallas Wings and the top-ranked Minnesota Lynx. Sustaining Atkins' high-level play and team cohesion could help Chicago salvage the season's first half and build momentum toward a playoff push.
Views 4149Likes 4081