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Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello expressed satisfaction after hearing star center Jonquel Jones declare herself feeling "99.9999999999999999 percent" back to full health following a team practice at Barclays Center. Jones made this statement, humorously specifying 16 decimal places, ahead of her confirmed return for the Liberty's first game after the All-Star break on July 22nd against the Indiana Fever. Jones, the 2024 Finals MVP, participated in full five-on-five work for the first time on Saturday. She had been sidelined for eight games due to an aggravated right ankle injury suffered on June 19th against the Mercury. This was a recurrence of an initial ankle injury sustained on June 5th that caused her to miss two games. Doctors had given her a recovery timeline of four to six weeks. Her absence significantly impacted the Liberty, causing their defense to falter without her presence in the paint and depriving the team of an important offensive piece both inside and from three-point range. During the stretch without Jones, the Liberty went 4-4. Five of those games were also without starter Leonie Fiebich, who was competing in Eurobasket for Germany. Jones has only played in nine games this season, averaging 12.1 points and 9.6 rebounds. Despite the lengthy absence, Jones now reports feeling "great" and stated she doesn't feel her ankle during play. However, she noted that warming up remains "the hardest part" of her current routine.
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New York Liberty player Natasha Cloud received a WNBA fine warning concerning her outfit choice while sitting on the bench during a game against the Las Vegas Aces last Wednesday. She was ruled out due to injury but attended the game wearing a sweater vest, cargo pants, a black baseball cap, and Doc Martins. The specific issue was her cap, which surprised Cloud as the WNBA reportedly lacks a rule banning caps, though the NBA (the WNBA's owner) does have such a rule. Cloud expressed confusion and frustration about receiving the warning for wearing a hat while unable to play, stating, "I don't understand why I receive a fine warning for wearing a hat on the bench for a game I was unable to play in?" and adding, "I just feel like I wanna be left alone lolllzzz." Cloud also recently drew attention for supporting New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. When asked about Mamdani's win in the Democratic primary last month, Cloud used the opportunity to strongly criticize former President Donald Trump. She referred to Mamdani as "my boy!" and then addressed Trump, saying, "If Donny wants to come down here, if ICE wants to try and come down here, that's fine. But [they're] going to learn the hard way… New Yorkers really don't f*** around. They don't play about one another. They don't play about this city." She characterized Trump and his administration's actions as "reckless," but also saw it as "exciting" because it signaled that "we're getting to them," "creating change that they don't want," and "dismantling a system." Cloud urged New Yorkers to "continue to be on the right path to history," protect each other, and protect Mamdani and his goals.
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Atlanta Hawks star point guard Trae Young is eligible for a four-year, $229 million contract extension this offseason. However, according to NBA insider Marc J. Spears of ESPN, substantive extension talks between Young and the Hawks have not yet occurred. Spears noted Young demonstrated commitment to the team by skipping a Jordan Brand event in Greece to join the Hawks in Las Vegas, but confirmed no meaningful extension discussions are happening currently. Young, who has spent his entire NBA career with the Hawks, saw the team acquire Kristaps Porzingis from the Celtics and sign Luke Kennard and Nickeil Alexander-Walker this offseason. The four-time All-Star averaged 24.2 points and a league-leading 11.6 assists per game last season. Young is set to earn $45.9 million next season and holds a $48.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season. One of the NBA's top scorers and passers with career averages of 25.3 points and 9.8 assists, Young led the Hawks to the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals. Prior to the Kings signing Dennis Schroder, Young was linked to Sacramento. However, NBA insider Sam Amick reported the Kings weren't interested in trading for Young due to his offense-first playing style and the significant cost of his current contract and potential extension. The Hawks have not made the playoffs since 2023, adding intrigue to their upcoming season performance.
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The article features an interview with New York Liberty basketball player Breanna Stewart discussing her essential everyday products. She emphasizes the importance of Color Wow hair spray in her game-day routine, specifically for creating a secure, slick top knot that withstands intense activity despite her thick hair. Stewart expresses a long-standing loyalty to Versace Bright Crystal perfume, appreciating its balanced floral scent that isn't overly girly. She applies it before walking onto the court and again at halftime, stating it makes her feel like herself and she dislikes alternatives. Her essential travel toiletry bag, kept at Barclays Center and taken on the road, contains her Color Wow hair spray, basic brushes from stores like CVS or Target, Supergoop! face lotion, her Versace perfume, and Native Cucumber & Mint deodorant, which she likes for its cucumber scent. Stewart enjoys reading mystery thrillers, particularly books by Frieda McFadden, starting with "The Housemaid" series. She reads extensively on airplanes while traveling without her kids. Her team also has a book club, recently finishing "The Silent Patient," where members discuss the books during travel, enjoying the different perspectives shared. While not her everyday cleanser, Stewart relies on the Clinique cleansing balm to effectively remove heavy makeup after events or appearances, finding it especially helpful for stubborn mascara without excessive effort, much to her wife Marta's amusement.
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Yili, Asia's largest dairy company, has extended its FIBA Global Partnership. The agreement, announced in Shenzhen at the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025, covers major upcoming events including the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026, the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, and the 2024 FIBA Continental Cups for men and women. The partnership, which began in 2023 before the highly successful FIBA Basketball World Cup, provides Yili with valuable on-court branding. This visibility generates significant international exposure through broadcasts, reinforcing Yili's global expansion strategy. Yili previously leveraged the World Cup for impactful marketing campaigns in the Philippines and Indonesia, utilizing local sub-brands to boost visibility and engagement in those markets. Yili is also demonstrating strong support for women’s basketball, actively participating around the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025. The extension was formalized at a ceremony in Shenzhen attended by FIBA President Sheikh Saud Ali Al Thani and Yili Group's General Manager of Brand Management, Zhang Yang. To mark the occasion and support the competing teams, Yili presented a lion dance performance incorporating basketball elements. The company launched integrated marketing campaigns showing respect for participating nations and organized interactive basketball shooting challenges for Shenzhen consumers, creating a vibrant basketball atmosphere in the city. Yili commits to continuing its support for global basketball growth, while FIBA values the partnership and anticipates future impactful initiatives together.
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The New York Liberty are exploring the potential signing of free agent Emma Meesseman while Jonquel Jones recovers from an ankle injury. Players and coaches acknowledge Meesseman could help the team, leveraging existing connections through head coach Sandy Brondello and star player Breanna Stewart. Both Brondello and Stewart share a history with Meesseman from their time at Russian club UMMC Ekaterinburg. Brondello coached there from 2012-2017, Stewart played from 2020-2022, and Meesseman was a member from 2016-2022. When asked directly about pursuing Meesseman (who hasn't played in the WNBA since 2022), Brondello did not deny the 2019 WNBA Finals MVP would be beneficial. Brondello stated on July 8th that Meesseman is resting after Eurobasket and deciding her plans, adding "We would love to have her if that’s something she’s interested in. I think that would certainly help us," though she confirmed no direct conversation had occurred yet. Similarly, Stewart responded coyly with "Um, maybe" and a smile when questioned about contacting Meesseman, stating "But I don’t know what’s happening." The article notes that Meesseman's potential fit with the Liberty extends beyond merely covering for Jones' injury and includes her familiarity with key personnel.
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New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu has confirmed her participation in the upcoming WNBA three-point contest. She informed the New York Post that she will compete in the event this Friday as part of the WNBA All-Star weekend in Indianapolis. Ionescu will be joined by Washington Mystics rookie Sonia Citron as the first two officially announced participants for the contest. This marks Ionescu's second appearance; she previously won the contest in 2023 by setting a WNBA and NBA single-round record with 37 points in the final round. She also notably faced the Golden State Warriors' Steph Curry in the 2024 NBA three-point contest, losing by just three points. Statistically this season, Ionescu is shooting a career-low 32.4% from three-point range, while Citron is shooting 36.3%. There is significant speculation that Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark will also participate, which would be her first appearance in the event. Clark previously declined an invitation to the NBA's contest earlier this year, reportedly because she wanted her first three-point contest to be at the WNBA All-Star event in Indianapolis. The three-point contest is scheduled for Friday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, followed by the All-Star game on Saturday night. Both Ionescu and Citron are on Caitlin Clark's team for the All-Star game and will face a team led by Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier.
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No news content was provided to summarize. The input only lists NBL team names (Adelaide 36ers, Brisbane Bullets, Cairns Taipans, Illawarra Hawks, Melbourne United, New Zealand Breakers, Perth Wildcats, S.E. Melbourne Phoenix, Sydney Kings, Tasmania JackJumpers) and filter categories (Featured News, More News, NBL Team News). There is no actual news article or report text to analyze or summarize.
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The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) is in the thick of its regular season in July, with intense competition as teams battle for top four positions and playoff seeding. Every game holds significant weight during this crucial period. A series of key matchups are scheduled between July 10 and 15 that could alter the standings. Highlights include: Mindoro Tamaraws vs. Ilagan Isabela Cowboys; Valenzuela City Magic vs. Abra Weavers (both fighting for top eight spots); Basilan Viva Portmasters vs. Pangasinan Abono Reapers (featuring veterans and young talent); and the dominant, undefeated Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards vs. the Bacolod Tubo Slashers. Individual players are also shining. Philip Paniamogan of Batangas City carries momentum after setting a league record with 15 three-pointers in a single game last month. Michael Mabulac continues to impress with his interior play for Pangasinan. In the standings, the north division is led by undefeated Nueva Ecija, followed by Abra, San Juan, and Quezon Huskers, with Pampanga and Caloocan close behind. The south division features a tight race at the top between Quezon Huskers, Zamboanga Sikat, Batangas City, and GenSan Warriors. The MPBL's unique charm stems from its deep community roots, where regional rivalries generate passionate fan support for hometown teams. July is pivotal for shaping playoff destinies, influencing home-court advantage and playoff paths. Every decision, shot, and victory becomes crucial as teams aim to make history. Fans can anticipate record-breaking performances, upsets, and emerging rivalries during the thrilling push for the top spots.
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LeBron James has not requested a trade from the Los Angeles Lakers. However, if the Lakers decide to trade him, a report indicates four teams have already contacted the Lakers to express interest in acquiring him. According to the report by Scoop Robinson, the four teams that inquired are the Dallas Mavericks, the Golden State Warriors, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Los Angeles Clippers. The report suggests the Mavericks scenario would be particularly ironic following Luka Doncic's recent trade from Dallas to the Lakers. It also speculates that a potential Lakers team featuring LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Cooper Flagg would be "incredible".
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The article focuses on WNBA betting options available on FanDuel Sportsbook, specifically analyzing the Atlanta Dream vs. New York Liberty game. It highlights traditional markets like spreads and totals, as well as player-prop bets. Despite the two teams combining for 167 and 171 points in their previous 2025 meetings, the analysis suggests a "normal" game leans towards betting the under on the total points. This counters the recent high-scoring trend. The reasoning points to the Dream's exceptional 52.9% field goal shooting performance in their last matchup against the Liberty and a 37.9% three-point shooting night against Indiana as being above their typical output. Statistically, the Dream rank only seventh in the WNBA in true shooting percentage (TS%) at 54.3% on average nights. Furthermore, the Liberty possess an excellent defensive rating (DRTG) of 98.1, supporting the case for a lower-scoring game than the previous meetings. The article notes that betting lines are subject to change and injury news should be monitored, and mentions that separate best bets are available for the Wings-Fever game.
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The New York Liberty waived guard Marquesha Davis prior to their Sunday game against the Atlanta Dream, ending her tenure with the team after just over a season. Head coach Sandy Brondello acknowledged Davis didn't get many playing opportunities but improved significantly and believes she will get another opportunity elsewhere. Davis, the Liberty's most recent first-round pick (11th overall in 2024 out of Mississippi), struggled to secure a consistent role. She played only 111 total minutes across 29 appearances over two seasons, though she finished on a positive note, registering a plus-14 rating in her final two games. Her release coincides with the WNBA's contract guarantee deadline, where players remaining on rosters past 5 p.m. ET on Sunday would have their 2025 salaries fully guaranteed. This move creates just over $35,000 in salary cap space for the Liberty, representing a little more than half of Davis's 2025 salary. There remains a possibility Davis could return to New York on a seven-day contract later in the season. Davis was one of several players waived across the WNBA this weekend, including fellow 2024 first-round pick Alissa Pilli (Minnesota), veterans Mercedes Russell (Los Angeles) and Stephanie Talbot (Golden State), and Connecticut's Jaelyn Brown and Haley Peters. While Coach Brondello deferred transactional details to GM Jonathan Kolb, she confirmed the Liberty is actively monitoring the waiver wire. A key prospect of interest is Emma Meesseman, the 2019 WNBA Finals MVP and former teammate of Natasha Cloud, who recently performed well for Belgium in the EuroBasket women's competition.
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An article highlights the standout fashion choices and styles observed at BLACKPINK's ongoing 2025 Deadline World Tour, showcasing memorable outfits worn by the group during performances. A feature celebrates Bollywood actress Fatima Sana Shaikh, known for her role in "Aap Jaisa Koi," by compiling her most elegant and impressive appearances in tailored suits. Actress Manasi Parekh's glowing beauty and charisma are captured in a photo series, emphasizing her radiant presence in various settings. "Dhadak 2" lead actress Tripti Dimri's natural beauty is spotlighted through a collection of her best makeup-free looks, highlighting her effortless charm. A curated list presents nine deeply moving and lyrical quotes designed to inspire and soothe, described as poetic nourishment for the spirit. Prospective pet owners are offered essential advice through ten key considerations for caring for Lovebirds, covering habitat, diet, and behavioral needs. Educational content reveals nine fascinating and lesser-known facts about snake plants, addressing their air-purifying qualities, resilience, and unique biological traits. Monsoon season's floral beauty is celebrated with a showcase of ten visually striking flowers that thrive during rainy periods, including their names and characteristics. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore profiles of the planet's ten largest animals by physical dimensions, featuring giants like whales and elephants with size comparisons. Exclusive wedding photographs capture the enchanting ceremony of Karthik Surya and Varsha, displaying intimate moments and elaborate celebrations from their nuptials.
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The Indiana Fever, despite high expectations following Caitlin Clark's drafting in 2024 and championship hype in her second season (2025), are struggling for consistency. They currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference, barely holding onto the final playoff spot. This downturn, partly attributed to Clark's injury problems, has created an opportunity for teams like the Atlanta Dream to climb the standings. Under first-year head coach Karl Smesko, the Dream boast a 12-7 record entering a crucial Friday night game against the Fever in Indianapolis. Smesko has declared his team "really good" and emphasized they are still improving, but stressed the urgency of getting better with only half the season remaining. He wants consistent effort focused on their game plan and putting pressure on opponents for the entire game, regardless of the score. Smesko, transitioning from 22 years coaching college basketball, has overseen dramatic improvement in Atlanta. Led by All-Star Allisha Gray, the Dream possess the league's third-best offense and fifth-best defense. Implementing a style emphasizing 3-point attempts, Atlanta has scored at least 90 points in eight of their 19 games. However, Smesko seeks more consistent execution throughout entire games. The Fever have lost two of their three meetings with the Dream this season, including a 77-58 defeat on June 10th when Clark was absent due to injury. With Clark now back from her groin injury, Indiana hopes to counter Atlanta on Friday. Achieving this will require a strong defensive performance to contain Atlanta's key players: Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, and Brittney Griner.
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The Oklahoma City Thunder are the reigning NBA champions after a dominant season, though questions linger about Tyrese Haliburton's Game 7 Finals injury. Two-time NBA champion Alex Caruso, interviewed about the upcoming season, commented on the Dallas Mavericks' prospects following their draft of Cooper Flagg. Caruso emphasized uncertainty, stating, "We got to see how they're gonna be," specifically noting Kyrie Irving's injury status ("He might be out the whole year. He might come back late. A lot of that depends on him."). Irving tore his ACL in March and underwent surgery in April. Initial reports suggested a January or February return, but Irving has since indicated he won't rush his recovery, prioritizing being 100% healthy before returning. Until Irving returns, the Mavericks present an interesting team dynamic with the addition of Flagg. While they possess a "loaded frontcourt" featuring Flagg, Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford, and Naji Marshall, their backcourt is considered a potential weakness. The team signed D'Angelo Russell to fill in at point guard, but the article notes that relying on Russell "doesn't always lead to success."
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The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) expressed deep disappointment over President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s veto of the National Polytechnic University (NPU) Bill. PUP stated the veto threatens the future of its regional campuses and represents a setback for inclusive public higher education, calling it a rejection of efforts to expand access. PUP explained that the bill, if signed, would have formally granted it national polytechnic university status, secured P100 million in annual support for five years, and provided greater institutional autonomy. The university emphasized this was not about prestige, but about resolving long-standing structural issues hindering its growth and modernization. It warned that without national funding, several regional campuses may face closure. The university felt the veto message downplayed its achievements and dismissed its 120-year legacy, citing its consistent performance in rankings, Level III Institutional Accreditation from AACCUP, high civil service ratings, and strong compliance with transparency standards. While the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) hasn't commented, PUP clarified that seeking NPU status wasn't a challenge to CHED's regulatory authority. It argued that institutional autonomy would empower PUP to innovate and modernize while remaining accountable to national standards, asserting that autonomy and regulation can coexist. PUP operates numerous campuses across Luzon, many established via Presidential Decree No. 1341 in underserved regions. It urged the national government to reconsider the veto, stressing that every day without the legislation treats education as a privilege instead of a right. Malacañang confirmed the President's veto, with a Presidential Communications Office official stating the reason was PUP's failure to comply with a long-standing requirement for institutional assessment mandated since 2016, with no proof the evaluation was completed.
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Alex Caruso, widely recognized as one of the NBA's top on-ball defenders, expressed the significant difficulty and worry associated with guarding Stephen Curry. Caruso, speaking on the Dan Patrick Show, acknowledged Curry's offensive prowess, emphasizing that Curry is actually most dangerous without the ball. He explained that Curry activates the Warriors' offensive movement by constantly running off the ball after giving it up, making him exceptionally hard to contain. Caruso detailed the strong connection between Curry and teammate Draymond Green, noting their precise understanding of each other's movements and reads. He also humorously suggested that Curry and Green often benefit from illegal screens during their plays that go uncalled by officials, adding another layer to the challenge of defending Curry. Despite Curry's perceived unguardability, the article highlights concerns about the Golden State Warriors' roster construction. The team has been notably inactive during the offseason, failing to add any significant players via free agency or trades. While signings of Al Horford and De'Anthony Melton are anticipated, these moves are viewed as insufficient for a serious title run next season, especially compared to other strong teams in the Western Conference. Draymond Green reportedly advised the front office on building around Curry and Jimmy Butler, but meaningful roster upgrades have yet to materialize.
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The Atlanta Dream (12-8) face the New York Liberty (13-6) on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET at Barclays Center. The game will be broadcast on Peachtree TV, WWOR, and Liberty Live. Atlanta will rely on Allisha Gray, the league's eighth-leading scorer averaging 18.7 points per game, to counter New York's Breanna Stewart, the fourth-leading scorer averaging 19.6 points per game. In their last game, the New York Liberty defeated the Las Vegas Aces 87-78 at home. Sabrina Ionescu led New York with 28 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 steals, shooting 39.1% from the field. Leonie Fiebich contributed 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks, shooting 54.5% from the field and 2-6 from three-point range. The Atlanta Dream lost their previous game on the road to the Indiana Fever, 99-82. Jordin Canada was Atlanta's top performer with 30 points and 8 assists, shooting 50.0% from the field and 6-11 from three-point range. Rhyne Howard added 14 points and 3 blocks, shooting 45.5% from the field and 4-8 from three-point range.
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Defenses have begun adjusting to Kennedy Burke's exceptional three-point shooting, a trend she noticed during the Liberty's previous game against the Atlanta Dream on June 29, where she went 1-for-6 from beyond the arc. Burke and head coach Sandy Brondello acknowledged this defensive shift was inevitable given her "off the charts" shooting performance this season. Despite the recent defensive focus, Burke remains a strong contender for Sixth Player of the Year. She leads the WNBA in three-point percentage (48.6%), a significant jump from her 25.9% in 2024. Her attempts have also increased notably, from 1.5 to 3.7 per game, though her total attempts (70) are still fewer than prolific shooters like Atlanta's Rhyne Howard (185) or teammate Sabrina Ionescu (145). To counter defenses taking away her three-point shot, Burke has increasingly relied on attacking the basket off the dribble, utilizing her quick first step. She also leverages her strong defense, exemplified by six steals against Las Vegas, to generate offensive opportunities. This adaptation aims to sustain her breakout season, especially after increased minutes due to Liberty absences in the first half of the year. Burke's preparation for this defensive adjustment began in the offseason with intensive three-point practice (both catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble) and specific work on driving to the basket. The effectiveness of this work became evident early this season, including a game where she made all four of her three-point attempts. This breakout contrasts with her 2024 season, her first with the Liberty, where she struggled to find a consistent role within the team's rigid rotation.
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Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers declared during a Summer League interview that the NBA currently has significant parity, stating, "I don’t think the NBA has been more open to anybody winning a title in 20 years." He believes this level of competitiveness is the best the league has seen since the early 2000s. Rivers supports his declaration by pointing out the lack of repeat champions since the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018. The last six NBA champions have all been different teams: the Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors (again, but not consecutively), Denver Nuggets, and Boston Celtics. This marks the first time in NBA history that there hasn't been a repeat champion within such a timeframe. Rivers views this constant turnover of champions as a positive development for the league. While acknowledging it makes achieving a repeat or three-peat much harder, and some might argue it diminishes historic rivalries, he contends that the unpredictability of which new team will win next increases overall intrigue. He sees the current widespread competitiveness as beneficial for the NBA's future.
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The Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns are both reportedly still considering the possibility of reuniting with veteran point guard Chris Paul, according to NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer. It was also reported that Paul rejected an approach from the Charlotte Hornets earlier in the NBA free agency period. Paul himself stated at the American Black Film Festival that he plans to play "at most, a year" at this point in his career. Paul has played 20 NBA seasons, earning numerous accolades including 12 All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA honors, nine All-Defensive Team selections, and a spot on the league's 75th Anniversary Team. Last season, the 40-year-old played for the San Antonio Spurs, averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game while starting all 82 contests and averaging 28.0 minutes per game. Despite nearing retirement, Paul still draws league interest and has options to consider as he approaches what is expected to be his 21st and final NBA season.
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Indiana Pacers President Kevin Pritchard announced that star guard Tyrese Haliburton will miss the entire 2025-2026 NBA season. Pritchard also stated he was very vocal about Haliburton playing through a strained calf during the NBA Finals and would not change that decision if given the chance again. This situation raises questions about the Pacers' outlook without Haliburton for the upcoming season. With Haliburton out and center Myles Turner departing in free agency, the Pacers have two significant openings in their starting lineup. The returning starters are Pascal Siakam, Andrew Nembhard, and Aaron Nesmith. The team acquired Jay Huff from the Timberwolves in an effort to help fill the void left by Turner's departure. The Pacers will rely on players like T.J. McConnell and Benedict Mathurin to take on expanded roles next season. The organization believes it made the correct decision to prioritize Haliburton's full recovery to return to his elite level, rather than rushing him back after a long layoff. They aim to take pressure off the upcoming season and focus on Haliburton's long-term health. The 2025-26 season is viewed as a period for developing younger talent and building team chemistry. The Pacers' front office is confident in their choice to allow Haliburton sufficient rehab time and is betting on the team's future success with him leading it upon his return. The organization anticipates Haliburton coming back stronger and the team being prepared for his return.
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The Washington Wizards, despite winning only 33 games over two seasons, are optimistic about their rebuild against conventional odds, largely due to acquiring Cam Whitmore in a trade that sent Jordan Poole away after two polarizing seasons. The 21-year-old Whitmore, who averaged just 17.4 minutes per game in his career, now shoulders significant scoring responsibility for Washington—a risky move mitigated by veteran presences like C.J. McCollum and Khris Middleton, alongside draft pick Tre Johnson. Whitmore's limited playing time in Houston stemmed from the Rockets' deep roster, not his abilities. With Poole gone and veterans potentially traded, Washington offers him consistent minutes he never received. His career averages—10.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.5 threes per game on .449/.357/.707 shooting—translate to star-level per-36-minute production: 22.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.0 threes, signaling untapped potential. A physically imposing wing (6'7", 230 lbs) with a 6'8.5" wingspan, Whitmore excels at all three scoring levels. He showcased near-star efficiency in limited minutes, hitting 38.1% of pull-up threes in 2024-25 and 42.8% of catch-and-shoot threes in 2023-24. His versatility as both an on-ball and off-ball threat, combined with transition explosiveness and rim-finishing, positions him for a breakout if he maintains shooting consistency and leverages increased opportunity. Mentorship from Khris Middleton—a three-time All-Star and NBA champion with a similar skill set—further accelerates Whitmore's development. With expanded playing time, reduced pressure, and Middleton's guidance, Whitmore is poised to thrive in a role Houston couldn't provide, potentially defining Washington's unconventional rebuild.
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The New York Liberty received positive injury updates ahead of their game against the Atlanta Dream. Natasha Cloud (hip) and Isabelle Harrison (knee), who each missed one game, practiced fully on Saturday and are expected to play on Sunday. Significantly, 2024 WNBA Finals MVP Jonquel Jones participated in five-on-five practice for the first time since re-injuring her right ankle on June 19. Head coach Sandy Brondello noted Jones's immediate positive impact on the team but emphasized the need to build her stamina before returning to game action. Jones originally suffered the ankle sprain and re-injured it during her second game back last month while landing awkwardly after a layup attempt, leading to an estimated 4-6 week recovery. Her absence has impacted the Liberty's defense around the paint and removed a consistent inside-outside scoring threat, as she was averaging 12.1 points and 9.6 rebounds prior to the injury. Jones is taking a cautious approach to her recovery, aiming to be as close to 100% as possible. Her rehabilitation progressed from individual shots and bike work to the five-on-five session on Saturday. Brondello stressed the importance of Cloud (averaging 10.1 points, 6.2 assists) and Harrison (a key bench piece in Jones's absence) returning for the physical matchup against Atlanta, citing the need for depth and different defensive looks. She also noted the team's defense has been "getting better," improving to the league's 5th-best defensive rating in early July after ranking 7th in June.
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Breanna Stewart received a surprise visit from her family during New York Liberty practice on Saturday. Her daughter Ruby interrupted Stewart's post-practice shooting by holding a sign declaring "Mommy is an All-Star." Stewart's son Theo and her wife, Marta Xargay (a former Spanish shooting guard), followed, with Xargay presenting Stewart with a bouquet to celebrate her seventh WNBA All-Star selection. This surprise capped off an eventful week for Stewart. She and Xargay celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary, and Stewart was also one of the first players selected in the All-Star draft held before the Liberty's Tuesday game against Las Vegas. For the All-Star Game, Stewart will team up with Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx, who earned captain/curator honors. This collaboration sets aside their rivalry from last fall's WNBA Finals, where Stewart's Liberty defeated Collier's Lynx 3-2 to win the championship. The UConn alumnae had previously partnered to create the Unrivaled three-on-three women's league. Stewart emphasized the importance of having her children, Ruby and Theo, around during the season, noting Ruby's growing awareness and enjoyment of the games. She expressed her desire for them to be inspired not only by her and Marta but also by her teammates, hoping exposure to these role models will empower them in the future. The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game is scheduled for July 19th in Indianapolis. Stewart and the Liberty have two games before that: hosting the Atlanta Dream on Sunday and the Indiana Fever on Wednesday. In the All-Star Game, Stewart will play alongside Liberty teammate Sabrina Ionescu and head coach Sandy Brondello, both added to the team curated by Caitlin Clark.
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The Philadelphia 76ers have experienced a mixed offseason, highlighted by drafting V.J. Edgecombe third overall in the 2025 NBA Draft after Ace Bailey declined to work out for them. They re-signed Kelly Oubre affordably but lost Guerschon Yabusele to the New York Knicks. A key development involves restricted free agent Quentin Grimes, who sought a $25 million annual contract but faces limited market interest due to depleted league cap space. Grimes' situation favors the Sixers, as rumored interest from the Utah Jazz in clearing cap space for an offer sheet has not materialized. This increases Philadelphia's chances of retaining him, which would be significant given his outstanding performance last season: in 28 games after being traded from Dallas, he averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals while shooting 47% from the field and 37% from three-point range. Retaining Grimes could help the Sixers recover from a season plagued by injuries to Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George. However, Grimes might accept a one-year qualifying offer of $8.7 million, making him an unrestricted free agent in 2026 when more teams have cap space. This scenario would give Philadelphia one season of his services but complicate long-term retention. If Grimes takes the qualifying offer, the Sixers could trade him before the 2025-26 deadline to acquire assets. Alternatively, a less dominant statistical season might lower his market value next summer, potentially enabling Philadelphia to re-sign him long-term. Overall, the lack of competitive offers positions the Sixers to retain Grimes for evaluation alongside a healthier roster, with flexibility to extend or trade him later.
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Sandy Brondello, head coach of the New York Liberty, moved into second place on the franchise's all-time coaching wins list after the team's 87-78 victory over the Las Vegas Aces on Tuesday. This marked her 93rd win in her fourth season, breaking a tie with Bill Laimbeer (92 wins). Only Richie Adubato, with 100 wins during his tenure from 1999-2004, remains ahead of her. Brondello's success with the Liberty since joining in 2022 includes reaching the playoffs in each of her first three full seasons and leading the team to its first championship in franchise history by winning the 2024 WNBA Finals. This followed a Commissioner's Cup win the previous year. The 2024 Finals victory also made Brondello the Liberty's all-time winningest postseason coach, surpassing Adubato. Brondello attributed her success to her players, stating it's a credit to the team's quality and their collective goal of winning games, rather than a personal milestone she actively seeks. She is currently the second-longest tenured active head coach across New York's major sports teams (MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL), behind only Yankees manager Aaron Boone. When Brondello secures her 100th win with the Liberty, she will become only the second WNBA head coach (alongside Mike Thibault) to reach 100 victories with two different franchises, having previously won 150 games with the Phoenix Mercury. Additionally, Brondello was recently named the head coach of one of the fantasy teams for the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game. The earliest Brondello can reach the 100-win milestone is at the start of next month when the Liberty begin a doubleheader against the Connecticut Sun. The Liberty have twelve games remaining on their home schedule, including a five-game homestand starting Sunday against the Atlanta Dream.
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