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TOPIsaiah Hartenstein Jokes About Return to Knicks
Despite Isaiah Hartenstein leaving the New York Knicks for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Knicks fans still show affection for him. Comedian Chris Distefano, filling in on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!", expressed regret to Hartenstein that he won his first NBA championship with the Thunder instead of the Knicks. Distefano, a Knicks fan, asked Hartenstein what it would take for him to return to New York. Hartenstein jokingly demanded permanent access to Jimmy Kimmel's sidekick, Guillermo Rodriguez. Hartenstein played for the Knicks for two seasons before joining the Thunder, who offered him a larger contract than the Knicks could match due to financial restrictions in the collective bargaining agreement. He was a key contributor (averaging 11.2 points and 10.7 rebounds) to the Thunder's championship win, their first since moving to Oklahoma City. Although a potential Finals matchup between the Knicks and Thunder/Hartenstein didn't materialize because the Knicks lost to the Indiana Pacers in the semifinals, Distefano claimed he would have struggled to choose sides. Hartenstein immediately playfully called him out on this, laughing and saying Distefano would have cursed at him during the game and urging him to be honest about rooting for the Knicks. The article notes that the Knicks managed Hartenstein's departure well, acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns and later welcoming back Mitchell Robinson. They further strengthened their frontcourt by adding Guerschon Yabusele from the Philadelphia 76ers in 2025.
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TOPJoel Embiid Discusses His NBA Legacy, 'I Care About How I'm Going to be Remembered'
Joel Embiid expressed concern that his NBA legacy might be defined by injuries rather than his on-court performance. Speaking to ESPN, the Philadelphia 76ers star emphasized his desire to be remembered specifically for his basketball career, stating, "I care about how I'm going to be remembered when it comes to basketball, but not as a man." Embiid discussed the mental toll of his physical injuries, revealing he is a people-pleaser motivated by support from family, teammates, and fans. He admitted, "I have a hard time disappointing people... I like to please people." This tendency reportedly contributed to him playing through injury against the Golden State Warriors on January 30, 2024, resulting in a torn meniscus, as team sources felt external pressure influenced his decision. Frustration exists from Embiid himself (over missing prime playing time), the organization, and fans due to his persistent unreliability. His availability is highly uncertain after playing only 58 games combined over the last two seasons due to knee problems. While 76ers officials are reportedly optimistic about Embiid returning for the start of the 2025-26 season, questions remain about his ability to regain his MVP form. His performance last season (23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, career-low 44.4% shooting in 19 games) was below his peak, which saw him average more than one point per minute before the meniscus tear. The article concludes that the 76ers' potential as a top Eastern Conference team next season hinges critically on Embiid's health and his ability to play at least 65 games – a threshold he has only reached twice in the past nine seasons.
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How Mark Daigneault uses Mother Nature to motivate Thunder in championship season
Fresh off an NBA championship with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Isaiah Hartenstein has been reflecting on his successful season, which included career-high averages of 11.2 points and 10.7 rebounds. As a key player in their title run, he utilized a double-big lineup alongside Chet Holmgren during the playoffs and has since appeared on various media outlets, including "The Rich Eisen Show," to discuss his departure from the New York Knicks and his Thunder experience. During his interview, Hartenstein humorously revealed an unconventional motivational tactic employed by Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault. Describing Daigneault as "very good crazy," Hartenstein explained that the coach would show players videos of animals hunting before games or practices, connecting these nature scenes to basketball concepts. Hartenstein praised Daigneault's unique ability to motivate and explain the game, calling him a "great coach" whose stoic demeanor instills confidence in the team. Hartenstein further emphasized Daigneault's impact, highlighting his constant reinforcement of a "0-0 mentality" to keep players balanced and present-focused. He also commended Daigneault's exceptional in-game adjustments, stating the coach has become one of his favorites to play for. This insight into Daigneault's methods—which helped transform him from an unknown rebuild coach to a widely recognized top NBA coach—was a standout moment of the interview.
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Backcourt The Backbone For OSU Basketball Season
Bruce Thornton's decision to return to Ohio State for his senior season is crucial for head coach Jake Diebler's second year, significantly boosting the team's prospects for Big Ten success and its first NCAA Tournament bid since 2022. Thornton, the senior point guard, faced NBA opportunities but chose to come back with a focus on team success rather than personal gain, leaving his "ego behind." Thornton is emphasized as a foundational leader, a rare fourth-year starter and consistent scorer at a Power 5 school. He expressed excitement about the team's new transfers and freshmen, stressing the importance of building chemistry and camaraderie daily. His loyalty to Ohio State and selfless approach are seen as vital catalysts for team unity. Thornton expects the team, particularly the backcourt blending Big Ten experience and youthful energy, to function without "egos," eliminating issues over roles, minutes, or shots. He stated the priority is simply getting the job done collectively, regardless of individual scoring. Newcomers are highlighted as key pieces: Freshman A'mare Bynum, Ohio State's top high school recruit, is anticipated to make an immediate impact with his physical style and skill. Transfer Christoph Tilly, who averaged 12.5 points at Santa Clara, is expected to upgrade the Buckeyes' post scoring. Thornton's return and leadership are portrayed as the best-case scenario for Diebler, providing stability after three seasons of unfulfilled expectations that led to Chris Holtmann's dismissal. He remains the program's backbone amidst ongoing pressure for success.
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Who the f*** is Moose? Inside our Malik Beasley investigation
The author describes the Malik Beasley gambling investigation story as the "craziest, most perplexing mystery" encountered in their NBA reporting career. A central question driving their investigation for the podcast "Pablo Torre Finds Out" was uncovering the identity of "Moose," hinting at a double meaning behind asterisks used in the narrative. ESPN's Shams Charania broke bombshell news on the eve of NBA free agency, revealing Malik Beasley was under federal investigation for allegedly gambling on his own games and prop bets. The report stunned the NBA community, including the author who wrote an immediate analysis that became their most-read piece of the year, indicating intense public interest. The Detroit Pistons were reportedly "blindsided" by the investigation despite preparing a $42 million contract offer for Beasley. No team or insider publicly anticipated the scandal—except for one cryptic social media post five months earlier. On January 30th, an obscure Twitter account predicted Beasley would face federal investigation, after which the account holder vanished, leaving the "Beasley Prophecy" as the only warning. This mysterious prediction led the reporting team—Pablo Torre, Amin Elhassan, and the author—to pursue what they termed a "Moose hunt" to uncover both the source of the prophecy and the significance behind the name "Moose."
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Kelsey Plum took a risk — is it paying off?
Kelsey Plum made a significant decision to leave the Las Vegas Aces, where she had achieved considerable success including two WNBA championships, three All-Star selections, and a Sixth Player of the Year award, to join the Los Angeles Sparks via a three-team trade in the offseason. The Sparks, coming off a league-worst 8-12 season and missing out on the top draft pick, traded the No. 2 pick (which became Dominique Malonga) to acquire Plum, signaling a shift away from rebuilding. Plum's time with the Sparks has been a mix of highs and lows. While she is averaging a career-high 20.1 points per game, her shooting efficiency has declined significantly compared to her 2023 championship season with the Aces (down from 47.5% FG and 38.9% 3PT to 39.1% FG and 35% 3PT). She is also attempting more shots (15.1 FGA per game) and committing more turnovers (3.3 per game), reflecting her new role as the primary offensive focus instead of playing alongside stars like A'ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray. Despite the challenges, the Sparks have shown improvement (7-14 record so far) compared to last year's 8 wins, even with significant injuries like Cameron Brink (ACL, yet to debut) and Rae Burrell missing most of the season. Plum has delivered key performances in their wins, including a 37-point opening game and a recent 23-point game in a victory over the Connecticut Sun. Meanwhile, the Aces, whom Plum left, have struggled, holding a 10-11 record. Her replacement, Jewell Loyd (acquired in the same trade), has not matched Plum's previous production, averaging 10.1 points on 37.9% shooting. The article concludes that while the ultimate success of Plum's move is still uncertain, she is now the undisputed leader ("head of the snake") of the Sparks for the first time in her career. The Sparks show potential for improvement with Brink's impending return and players like Azurá Stevens and Rickea Jackson finding their rhythm, but their success hinges significantly on Plum's performance.
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Mavericks' Cooper Flagg Receives Buzzworthy Kevin Garnett Take
The Dallas Mavericks secured the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by trading Luka Dončić before last year's deadline and selected former Duke star Cooper Flagg. Flagg is anticipated to accelerate the franchise's transition from the Dončić era, possessing comparable elite potential despite Dončić's established NBA stardom. Entering his rookie season, Flagg faces significant expectations for immediate impact. Analysts have drawn parallels between his playing style and NBA legends, including Kevin Garnett, Larry Bird, and Kawhi Leonard, though differences in skill sets are noted. If Flagg approaches their caliber, Dallas would solidify its new franchise cornerstone. NBA analyst Chris Broussard recently claimed on "First Things First" that Flagg will surpass Garnett offensively, citing a superior scoring arsenal. Broussard emphasized, "I think he'll be a better scorer than Kevin Garnett... His offensive package is way better." Garnett averaged 17.8 points per game during his career. Flagg validated his hype at Duke, leading the Blue Devils to the NCAA Final Four before losing to Houston. Across 37 games, he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals while shooting 48.1% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range.
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Summer League Check-In: Denver Nuggets struggling with playmaking
The Denver Nuggets have started their Summer League 0-2, which is attributed to a lack of young talent on their summer roster. Only two official roster players, DaRon Holmes II (returning from a season-long Achilles tear) and Hunter Tyson, are participating, one of the lowest totals in the NBA. Two two-way players, Spencer Jones and Tamar Bates, are also present but still developing their playmaking. The team heavily relies on guards Reece Beekman, Curtis Jones, and Boo Buie to facilitate, with mixed results. DaRon Holmes II has made a positive impression in his return, showing an improved jump shot (5-of-10 from three-point range), occasional perimeter drives, and defensive flashes. He averaged 11.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 0.5 assists, and 1.0 steals+blocks in about 25 minutes per game. However, his physicality and athleticism, especially against true centers, need improvement as he appeared overwhelmed at times. Developing his ability to handle physical defensive assignments and improving reaction time near the baseline are critical next steps for his role in Denver's system. Hunter Tyson, the veteran leader, has averaged 12.5 points and 9.0 rebounds but struggled against more athletic perimeter wings. He faded offensively in the second half against Milwaukee and couldn't create separation against Minnesota's defenders. His shooting has been poor (32.1% FG, 27.3% 3PT), partly due to a lack of setup help and individual pressure to create shots he won't face in the NBA. Spencer Jones stood out defensively, being Denver's best defender despite fouling too much. Offensively, he improved significantly from zero points in Game 1 to 19 points (8/12 FG, 3/6 3PT) in Game 2. His activity on the glass and strength around the rim were notable. While playmaking is minimal, his progression as a defensive-minded role player depends on improving his offensive versatility and shotmaking. Tamar Bates has been solid finishing around the rim (8/16 from two) but struggled with perimeter shooting (1/9 from three). His slashing ability is promising, and the focus for Nuggets fans should be on him displaying a quicker trigger and making enough shots to force defensive overreactions.
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76ers' horror story continues with gut-wrenching Paul George announcement
Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his left knee after sustaining an injury during a recent offseason workout. Sources described the procedure as a "clean-up" that did not involve major ligaments. George will now begin a rehabilitation plan and is scheduled to be re-evaluated before the start of training camp. This injury occurred in the same knee George hyper-extended twice during the previous season, raising immediate concerns about his durability. The timing is particularly troubling as George entered the previous season healthy but was subsequently hampered by multiple injuries that limited his effectiveness, leading to him being shut down after the All-Star break alongside Joel Embiid. While hopes were high for a bounce-back season, this new injury casts doubt on that possibility. The fact that George sustained an injury requiring surgery during an offseason workout is alarming, especially considering he turned 35 in May. He is entering the second year of a four-year, $212 million contract, set to earn $51.7 million in the 2025-26 season. The article expresses concern that if George continues to suffer injuries at this rate, his contract could become one of the worst in the NBA in the coming years. While George could potentially recover fully by October, the risk of recurring nagging injuries due to age and wear-and-tear remains significant. The article emphasizes a key lesson for the 76ers from last season: they must prioritize George's health and allow him ample time to recover fully, even if it means missing games early in the season, rather than rushing him back prematurely. The article concludes with a satirical suggestion that Dr. Jonathan Glashow, who performed the same surgery on both George and Embiid within four months, should ring the bell for Philadelphia's home-opening game.
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How To Watch Minnesota Lynx at Chicago Sky on July 14: TV Channel, Game Time, Injury Report, Jerseys
The Minnesota Lynx will face the Chicago Sky in an upcoming WNBA game. The game will be televised on the FanDuel Sports Network - North channel. It will also be available for live streaming through the WNBA app, though certain restrictions may apply. The game is scheduled for Monday, July 14th. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM Central Time (CT). The match will take place at the Wintrust Arena.
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Celtics' Major Free Agent Acquisition Reveals Why He Chose Boston
The Boston Celtics face significant changes at the center position for the upcoming season with Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kornet, and likely Al Horford departing. To address this, the team acquired Luka Garza, formerly of the Minnesota Timberwolves, signing him to a reported two-year, $5.5 million contract. Garza expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Celtics during his introductory press conference, highlighting the franchise's prestigious history and winning culture as major attractions. He described himself as a "big basketball junkie" and stated that the opportunity to wear the Celtics uniform was "attractive enough." He further emphasized seeing significant opportunity in the frontcourt and feeling that the Celtics front office and coaches believe in his abilities, making it a good fit for his career stage. Garza outlined the key elements of his game that make him impactful. He identified playing hard as his primary skill, believing it compensates for other limitations. Having gained four years of NBA experience, he noted improvements in his understanding, IQ, angles, and defensive capabilities. Offensively, he expressed strong confidence in his ability to help the team by creating good offense and flow through scoring, passing, screening, and facilitating shots for himself and teammates. Due to the Celtics' lack of proven centers on the current roster, Garza is expected to contend for significant playing time, with a possibility of earning a starting role. His career NBA averages over four seasons are 4.9 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.1 blocks per game in 7.8 minutes.
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Timberwolves' approach to free agency is bound to pay off
The Minnesota Timberwolves currently have two open roster spots but are prioritizing roster continuity this offseason. Their only significant moves have been extending Naz Reid and Julius Randle while re-signing Joe Ingles. Although they lost Nickeil Alexander-Walker, they plan to retain nearly the same roster. Despite having two openings, Minnesota is likely to start the season with one spot vacant. This strategy provides financial and roster flexibility, especially given their high payroll under the NBA's second-apron rules. The team has shown interest in veteran guards Bradley Beal and Malcolm Brogdon, whose skills (shot creation and playmaking) align with roster needs. However, acquiring either player could impact rookie Rob Dillingham's development. Damian Lillard is also mentioned as a potential long-term option for the 2026-27 season, though no credible links exist. Brogdon appears a more realistic target than Beal, who faces strong interest from the Los Angeles Clippers and hasn't been bought out. Alternatively, the Wolves could pursue point guard Monte Morris, who previously played for them and would provide reliable depth without disrupting rotations. Other potential depth signings include guards Cameron Payne, Delon Wright, Patty Mills, and Alec Burks, or wings/bigs like Lindy Waters III, Torrey Craig, Precious Achiuwa, and Trey Lyles. The team is more likely to add a depth piece than make a major acquisition. Another option involves converting two-way player Tristen Newton to a standard contract if he impresses in summer league. This would align with the continuity theme and free up a two-way spot for players like Amari Bailey, though Newton would likely spend time in the G League. Regardless of their approach, the Timberwolves are positioned well for the upcoming season.
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John Calipari Tried To Convince Karl-Anthony Towns To Be Drafted By Lakers In 2015
The 2015 NBA Draft saw the Los Angeles Lakers select D'Angelo Russell with the No. 2 overall pick. Karl-Anthony Towns, the consensus No. 1 pick chosen by the Minnesota Timberwolves, was reportedly advised by his college coach John Calipari to consider dropping to the Lakers at No. 2 to play in Los Angeles instead of Minnesota. Calipari recounted this during a discussion about the pre-draft process for another player, revealing that Towns rejected the idea, stating he would "wear a coat" and preferred the honor of being the No. 1 pick. Towns enjoyed his time in Minnesota. The article argues Towns made the correct decision, noting the historical significance and Hall of Fame probability associated with being a No. 1 overall pick. It contrasts Towns' career path with Russell's, who was traded by the Lakers within two years and has since played for multiple teams. The piece suggests Towns likely wouldn't trade his trajectory to have been drafted by the Lakers instead. Shifting to the present, the article states the Lakers, historically built on superstars, acquired Luka Doncic in a 2025 deal. With the 26-year-old Doncic entering his prime and 39-year-old LeBron James nearing the end of his career (though still elite), the Lakers are beginning to build their roster around Doncic. This shift potentially signals the end of James' tenure with the team, especially as the Lakers chose not to offer him a contract extension this summer. The 2025-26 season could be his last with the Lakers if he continues playing.
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3 takeaways from Bucks' reported signing of former Eastern Conference foe
Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers expressed his belief that Myles Turner's abilities would complement Giannis Antetokounmpo perfectly, though the context for this comment isn't elaborated in the provided text. Guard Cole Anthony is set to join the Milwaukee Bucks on a one-year deal. After spending his first five NBA seasons with the Orlando Magic, Anthony was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies this offseason but secured a buyout without playing for them. He is now expected to sign with Milwaukee. Anthony, who alternated between starting and bench roles in Orlando, contributed to the Magic's late-season push to make the playoffs for the second consecutive year following a three-year absence, including winning nine of their final twelve regular-season games in 2024-25. Anthony's signing addresses a need for guard depth on the Bucks roster created by the loss of star guard Damian Lillard, who was waived after suffering an Achilles tendon tear during the playoffs. The article highlights three key takeaways from Anthony's move to Milwaukee. Firstly, his offensive ability is considered his most important attribute. He averaged 12.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists over five seasons with Orlando, ranking him among the top three offensive bench players in the NBA according to ESPN. While his production dipped this past season to a career-low 9.4 points per game due to reduced minutes (18.4 per game) and starting only 22 of 67 games, alongside foot issues causing missed games, increased playing time and better health in Milwaukee could lead to improved output. Secondly, Anthony's scoring is needed. With Lillard out, the Bucks' backcourt lacks scoring punch. Gary Trent Jr. is currently the highest-scoring guard on the roster, averaging 11.7 points per game in the regular season. Anthony and Trent Jr. are likely to compete for minutes at the guard position. Thirdly, the Bucks need to replace Lillard's three-point shooting. Despite a first-round playoff exit and scoring inconsistencies, Milwaukee led the NBA in three-point shooting percentage during the regular season (38.7%). Lillard was a significant factor, leading the team with 3.4 made threes per game. His absence creates a void that needs filling to maintain their strong outside shooting.
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Kevin Durant’s 2-word reaction to Klay Thompson’s Megan Thee Stallion post
Klay Thompson appeared to publicly confirm his relationship with Megan Thee Stallion by sharing a photo with the rapper on his Instagram account over the weekend. This followed fan speculation about their romance after Thompson was spotted in the background of Megan Thee Stallion's Instagram post earlier in the week. Thompson's relationship reveal attracted significant social media attention, including responses from fellow NBA players Dwight Howard and Nate Robinson. Robinson humorously commented on the post, joking that Thompson should change his Instagram handle to Kevin Durant's "@easymoneysniper" moniker due to his "accuracy" in dating. The article clarifies that an initial claim about Durant commenting was incorrect—it originated from a verified fan account—and has been corrected to focus on other reactions. The post also revisits Thompson's history with Durant, noting they won two championships together during three seasons with the Golden State Warriors. Both now play in the NBA's Western Conference—Thompson with the Dallas Mavericks and Durant with the Houston Rockets—setting up potential competitive matchups. The Mavericks secured top draft pick Cooper Flagg, while the Rockets improved with Durant's addition, potentially positioning both teams as playoff contenders who might face each other in postseason play.
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In stream with Kyrie Irving, Jaylen Brown opens up about Celtics role, knee surgery
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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Heat Notes: Ware, Wiggins, Jakucionis, Butler Trade
Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra expressed significant disappointment with center Kel'el Ware's underwhelming performance during the Summer League. Despite Ware becoming the Heat's starting center mid-season and earning second-team All-Rookie honors last year, and the organization valuing him highly enough to exclude him from a Kevin Durant trade offer, his play this summer has been a letdown. Spoelstra emphasized that Ware must urgently improve his professionalism, consistency, and daily approach, stating that the team has "bigger expectations" than normal growing pains for a young player. While acknowledging Ware's talent, Spoelstra stressed that standards won't lower and Ware must take ownership of improving his professionalism and consistency. Ware's performance statistics reflect the concerns. Through two California Classic games and one in Las Vegas, he averaged 12.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. However, he shot only 39.4% from the field and made just 1-of-10 three-point attempts. His plus-minus rating was a team-worst minus-21 in a recent loss to Atlanta. Ware himself acknowledged to reporters that he needs to improve his boxing out, defense, and finishing at the rim. The news content also includes strong fan reactions to the Heat's trade of Jimmy Butler. Many commenters view the trade negatively, arguing that acquiring Norman Powell and a rookie point guard (described as terrible and overmatched) is a significant downgrade from Butler. They characterize the return for Butler as getting mere "cents on the dollar," criticizing the move as driven by a reluctance to pay Butler while taking on Powell and Andrew Wiggins' contracts. Some specifically label it a "terrible trade" and a "huge L," citing Butler's positive impact on the Golden State Warriors' record late last season and questioning the value of the return pieces like Wiggins, Davion Mitchell, and future cap space. Critics further argue the trade signifies a decline for the Heat, suggesting they are now merely a "6 seed hope" in the Eastern Conference, which they equate to being a 14th-place team in the stronger Western Conference. While one comment suggests it's too early to judge the trade definitively ("the assets and fallout develops and time has elapsed"), the dominant sentiment among the included reactions is that the Butler trade was a major loss for Miami.
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New Tatt, Who Dis? Drake Pulls A Tattoo Switcheroo With LeBron James Ink, Covers It Up With SGA Tribute
Drake has covered his tattoo of LeBron James with a new tattoo depicting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a move that signals the permanent end of his friendship with the NBA superstar. This change was observed during Drake's performance at the Twenty Years of Wireless festival in London, where fans noticed his original LeBron tattoo—featuring James in his high school jersey—had been replaced with Gilgeous-Alexander's Oklahoma City Thunder jersey. The rift between Drake and LeBron stems from a deterioration in their once-close relationship, which had included frequent public appearances together at games and Drake's tribute tattoo. Tensions escalated last year during Drake's feud with rapper Kendrick Lamar, particularly after LeBron publicly supported Lamar. This included LeBron rapping lyrics from Lamar's diss track "Not Like Us" and attending Lamar's Juneteenth 2024 concert, where the song was prominently featured, actions Drake perceived as a betrayal. In response, Drake released lyrical disses aimed at LeBron, such as the January 2025 track "Fighting Irish Freestyle"—a reference to LeBron's high school—and calling out LeBron and DeMar DeRozan for their presence at Lamar's concert. He further intensified the feud in February 2025 by altering lyrics during a Perth concert performance of "Nonstop," changing "How I go from six to 23 like I’m LeBron?" to "How I go from six to 23 but not LeBron, man." Drake later addressed the fallout in his song "What Did I Miss?" with lines criticizing LeBron's actions. The choice to replace the tattoo with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is significant, as Gilgeous-Alexander shares Toronto roots with Drake and recently led the Oklahoma City Thunder to an NBA championship in the 2024-25 season, earning MVP and Finals MVP honors. His Canadian background and stellar performance, including appearing in Drake's "NOKIA" music video, make him a fitting symbol for Drake's new allegiance. While LeBron appeared unbothered—attending a Bad Bunny concert in Puerto Rico shortly after Drake's latest diss—Drake's tattoo alteration confirms the definitive end of their bromance.
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Atlanta Dream coach sends warning to Caitlin Clark and the Fever
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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How Many No. 1 Picks Have the Mercury Had?
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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PUP says veto of Nat’l Polytechnic University bill a setback to inclusive higher education
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) expressed deep disappointment over President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s veto of the National Polytechnic University (NPU) Bill. PUP stated the veto threatens the future of its regional campuses and represents a setback for inclusive public higher education, calling it a rejection of efforts to expand access. PUP explained that the bill, if signed, would have formally granted it national polytechnic university status, secured P100 million in annual support for five years, and provided greater institutional autonomy. The university emphasized this was not about prestige, but about resolving long-standing structural issues hindering its growth and modernization. It warned that without national funding, several regional campuses may face closure. The university felt the veto message downplayed its achievements and dismissed its 120-year legacy, citing its consistent performance in rankings, Level III Institutional Accreditation from AACCUP, high civil service ratings, and strong compliance with transparency standards. While the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) hasn't commented, PUP clarified that seeking NPU status wasn't a challenge to CHED's regulatory authority. It argued that institutional autonomy would empower PUP to innovate and modernize while remaining accountable to national standards, asserting that autonomy and regulation can coexist. PUP operates numerous campuses across Luzon, many established via Presidential Decree No. 1341 in underserved regions. It urged the national government to reconsider the veto, stressing that every day without the legislation treats education as a privilege instead of a right. Malacañang confirmed the President's veto, with a Presidential Communications Office official stating the reason was PUP's failure to comply with a long-standing requirement for institutional assessment mandated since 2016, with no proof the evaluation was completed.
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Palace: Marcos vetoed NPU bill over PUP’s low performance in 2016
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has vetoed the bill proposing the creation of the National Polytechnic University (NPU) to strengthen the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP). The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) stated the primary reason for the veto was PUP's "low performance" in the 2016 State Universities and Colleges (SUC) leveling exercise, where it received only a Level II rating. The PCO explained that this Level II rating was low compared to other SUCs achieving Levels III and IV. It further noted that a previous presidential suggestion for reassessing PUP's suitability for National University status had not been carried out. The PUP expressed strong disapproval, calling the veto a rejection of the need to expand access to quality public higher education. Additional concerns cited by the PCO included the establishment of 14 PUP campuses via Board of Regents resolutions instead of through the legislative process, potentially creating expectations for National Government funding. The PCO also stated that granting PUP institutional autonomy through the NPU bill could weaken the Commission on Higher Education's (Ched) regulatory oversight over SUCs. The PCO emphasized that achieving National University status requires demonstrating exceptional quality in faculty and programs, along with maintaining high academic standards in instruction, research, and public service – criteria PUP reportedly did not meet based on the 2016 assessment.
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Nebraska Basketball Freshman Leo Curtis Excels in FIBA U20 Opening Matchup
Leo Curtis, a 7-foot-1 forward from Iceland committed to Nebraska basketball, is currently competing for Iceland in the FIBA U20 EuroBasket tournament in Greece. This marks his third consecutive summer representing Iceland in FIBA youth tournaments, having previously played in the 2024 U20 and 2023 U18 EuroBasket events. In Iceland's opening game of the 2025 tournament against Serbia on Saturday, Curtis delivered a strong performance despite Iceland's 90-76 loss. He scored 17 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, dished out 5 assists, and recorded 3 steals while shooting 7-12 from the field and 3-6 from three-point range. This performance represents a significant jump from his 2024 U20 EuroBasket averages of 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. Curtis also had a standout 2023 U18 tournament, averaging 8.6 points and 7.0 rebounds. Curtis spent his senior high school season at CATS Academy in Massachusetts, where he earned national prep All-America honorable mention honors. He averaged 12.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game during his lone season in the United States. Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg praised Curtis upon his signing in May, highlighting his "combination of size and skill set" as an ideal fit. Hoiberg described Curtis as a natural stretch forward who can initiate offense, put pressure on the rim, and impact both ends of the floor at 7-foot-1, noting his athletic background in soccer and significant potential for growth. Curtis is the second Icelandic player to join Nebraska, following Thorir Thorbjarnarson (2019-2021). He was also teammates with former Husker Matej Kavas. Curtis chose Nebraska over offers from Arizona State, Indiana, and West Virginia, and was rated as the No. 84 player and No. 11 center in the 2025 class by On3. Iceland continues Pool D play in the FIBA U20 EuroBasket tournament with upcoming games against France and Slovenia. The top two teams from each pool advance to the Round of 16 starting July 16, with the championship game scheduled for July 20. Games are available to watch on the FIBA YouTube channel.
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Stephen Curry may sway Warriors into unthinkable free agency decision
The Golden State Warriors are reportedly showing interest in unrestricted free agent Ben Simmons, generating significant debate among fans. Despite Simmons' career struggles in recent years, the Warriors' open roster spots and the potential influence of Stephen Curry are seen as key factors driving this speculation. Analysts, including Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, suggest Simmons and Seth Curry are names discussed around the Warriors during NBA Summer League. Siegel notes Simmons has historically thrived in systems surrounded by reliable shooters, a condition he hasn't consistently had lately, partly due to his own injury absences. His career-high assist season coincided with playing alongside shooter JJ Redick. Playing alongside Stephen Curry in Golden State, potentially the best shooter Simmons would ever partner with, alongside movement shooters like Buddy Hield, is seen as an opportunity for Simmons to rejuvenate his career. The Warriors' system, particularly Steve Kerr's offense and Curry's presence, is viewed as potentially ideal for him. Simmons is also considered a potential fit to reduce Draymond Green's regular-season burden as a point forward, mimicking the Curry-Green dynamic. Furthermore, the Warriors need a backup point guard to lessen the workload on the 37-year-old Curry, and Simmons, despite his weaknesses, is seen as a capable ball-handler and playmaker who could fill that void.
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Drake Seemingly Tattoos Over LeBron James Tribute With Ne...
Drake has apparently covered up his tattoo of LeBron James' St. Vincent-St. Mary Fighting Irish high school jersey with a new tattoo honoring basketball player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA). The original tattoo symbolized Drake's fandom for James and their close friendship. A recent close-up photo from Drake's performance at Wireless Festival in London revealed that the Fighting Irish jersey tattoo has been replaced with one depicting SGA's Oklahoma City Thunder jersey. The homage to SGA is logical as he, like Drake, is a Toronto native. Their relationship is evident through SGA's appearance in Drake's "NOKIA" music video and their interactions at games. Drake also publicly acknowledged SGA in June after winning a large bet on the Thunder. The cover-up coincides with a reported rift between Drake and LeBron James, stemming from James attending Kendrick Lamar's "Pop Out" concert. In January, a leaked Drake song titled "Fighting Irish" featured lyrics seemingly criticizing James, calling him fake despite past exchanges of gifts and personal concern. Drake explicitly stated in the song that their once family-like relationship is over, denying they were ever like brothers and accusing James of prioritizing his public image.
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Tyrese Maxey quietly hinted at pivotal developments for the 76ers next season
The Philadelphia 76ers face multiple challenges to become championship contenders next season, heavily dependent on Joel Embiid's health and other factors. Guard Tyrese Maxey, during an ESPN interview, highlighted two key developments that could elevate the team: the need to prove their potential on the court rather than just on paper, and his personal focus on improving playmaking and off-ball movement. Maxey has evolved significantly since being drafted in 2020, developing into an all-star caliber player through enhanced perimeter shooting and pick-and-roll decision-making. For next season, he aims to advance his playmaking by executing more complex passes (like skip passes) when attacking the rim to maximize offensive opportunities. His off-ball improvement, however, will depend on Philadelphia's offensive structure—particularly how Embiid operates in the post and whether Paul George assumes greater ball-handling duties. Maxey also emphasized the potential impact of new teammate Trendon Watford, whom he envisions providing a Draymond Green-like influence. Watford, a versatile forward with unconventional playmaking skills in the post and pick-and-rolls, offers defensive IQ and physicality. While not identical to Green, his passing could inject creativity into an offense that lacked innovation last season. His arrival addresses the void left by Guerschon Yabusele's departure, potentially stabilizing the power forward position if Maxey's expectations materialize.
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The latest, hottest and freshest NBA free agency and trade buzz from the scalding Las Vegas Summer League
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.
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