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TOPAngel Reese Sits Out With Injury, Chicago Sky Get Waxed By Atlanta Dream
Chicago Sky All-Star forward Angel Reese missed Wednesday afternoon's WNBA game against the Atlanta Dream due to a leg injury. In her absence, the Chicago Sky delivered an extremely poor performance, described as pathetic and completely lifeless. The Atlanta Dream dominated the game from start to finish, never trailing, leading by as many as 43 points, and securing an easy 86-49 victory. The Sky struggled offensively, scoring 13 points or fewer in each quarter and shooting only 25% from the field. The team's performance highlighted how much worse they looked without Reese, despite the game's unusual Wednesday afternoon scheduling just days before the All-Star break and the Sky's overall 7-15 record. Although listed with a leg injury, reports indicate Reese is expected to participate in the upcoming WNBA All-Star festivities, suggesting her absence was likely precautionary rest. The article notes Reese is a significant draw for the league. This precautionary approach was contrasted with the situation of Caitlin Clark, the league's biggest draw, who suffered an apparent injury the night before and is now in doubt for the All-Star Game, implying the league might have wanted to avoid a similar situation with Reese. The article questions the league's scheduling of the game and expresses concern that the league relies heavily on stars like Reese to draw audiences for marquee events, viewing this as potentially problematic.
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TOPQuestions about Connecticut Sun’s future loom large over sellout at Boston’s TD Garden
Connecticut Sun rookie guard Saniya Rivers expressed enthusiasm for Boston after trying her first lobster roll before the team's game against the Indiana Fever at TD Garden. Rivers, who spent most of her life in North Carolina, called the lobster roll "so fire" and joked she couldn't eat lobster in her home state anymore. Having only visited Massachusetts twice before recently, Rivers stated the city had grown on her quickly. Rivers openly advocated for the Sun franchise to relocate from Connecticut to Boston, stating, "If it was up to me, we’d probably relocate here." She argued that playing in Boston would generate more attention and support for women's basketball, offering better marketing opportunities than Connecticut, though she clarified she still loves Connecticut. Rivers' comments came amidst ongoing questions about the Sun's future. Team president Jennifer Rizzotti confirmed in May that the Mohegan Tribe ownership group is conducting a strategic review of its investment, including exploring a potential sale. The tribe has hired investment bank Allen & Company to facilitate this review. While there has been long-standing speculation about a Boston-based ownership group purchasing and relocating the Sun, recent reports suggest the tribe prefers a buyer who would keep the team in Connecticut. AJ Gerritson, spokesperson for Boston Women’s Basketball Partners, stated his group now intends to pursue bringing a team to Boston via WNBA expansion rather than relocating the Sun. Additionally, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont supports an investor group, reportedly including a former NBA owner, that aims to keep the Sun based in the state and have them play some games at Hartford’s PeoplesBank Arena.
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Vlatko Cancar says goodbye to Nuggets Nation in heartfelt Instagram post
Vlatko Čančar, drafted by the Denver Nuggets in 2017, joined the team in 2019 after transitioning from overseas basketball to the NBA. He became a fan favorite during his time in Denver, known for on-court moments and off-court humor, and was one of the team's longest-tenured players until this offseason. However, Čančar's tenure with the Nuggets officially ended earlier in the offseason when it was announced he would not return for the 2025-26 season. Reports indicate he is in advanced discussions to join a team in the EuroLeague. During his five active seasons with the Nuggets (he missed the 2023-24 season due to an ACL tear), the 6-foot-8 small forward averaged 3.4 points per game. His best seasons were in 2022 (amidst team injuries) and 2023, where he played a career-high 60 games as a depth player on the championship-winning squad. He was also part of the notable "the seven" group that won a game in Utah in 2020 despite severe roster limitations.
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Lakers To Close Out Las Vegas Summer League On Friday Vs. Nuggets
The Los Angeles Lakers' 2025 Summer League performance has been inconsistent, starting strong in the California Classic but struggling in Las Vegas with a 1-2 record. Individual performances have varied: Bronny James, Cole Swider, and Darius Bazley have impressed. Swider leads the team in Vegas scoring (19.7 ppg) with exceptional 48.3% 3-point shooting, while James is averaging 13 points and 3.3 assists, showing significant improvement and comfort. Bazley has displayed strong activity and defense. Conversely, last year's first-round pick Dalton Knecht has struggled, shooting only 29% from the field in Vegas. The Lakers have one regular Summer League game remaining against the Boston Celtics on Thursday. Additionally, since they cannot qualify for the playoffs, they will play a final game against the Denver Nuggets on Friday, July 18, as announced by the NBA. This matchup is noted as fitting due to the recent rivalry between the Lakers and Nuggets, and it completes a summer where the Lakers faced other rivals like the Celtics, Clippers, and Warriors. Facing the Nuggets on the second night of a back-to-back, it is likely James, Knecht, and others may rest. This could provide extended minutes for other players, similar to how Quincy Olivari impressed the organization last year. Bronny James' positive development and comfort level are highlighted, attributed to his experience and reps gained in the G League last season.
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NBA stars who married their high school sweethearts
Despite the rarity of high school sweethearts lasting, especially for famous NBA players, several stars have married partners they met as teenagers. LeBron James met his wife Savannah while he was a star at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Ohio; they married in 2013 and have three children: Bronny (now on the Lakers), Bryce (heading to play for Arizona Wildcats), and Zhuri. Stephen Curry met his wife Ayesha as teenagers in North Carolina; they married in 2011 and have four children: Riley, Ryan, Canon, and Cai. Other NBA players who found their spouses while in high school include Russell Westbrook (married Nina Earl in 2015), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (married Hailey Summers in 2024), Jalen Brunson (married Ali Marks in 2023), and Chris Paul (married Jada Crowley in 2011). The article also notes Kobe Bryant met Vanessa Bryant when he was 21 and she was 17 and still in high school.
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New Report on Warriors' Failed Offer for Bradley Beal
The Golden State Warriors remain the only NBA team without any offseason moves, causing fan concern following their second-round playoff exit. While they acquired Jimmy Butler at February's trade deadline, many believe they need further roster improvements to compete for a championship. On Wednesday, the Warriors missed an opportunity to sign Bradley Beal. The Phoenix Suns agreed to a contract buyout with the three-time All-Star, who plans to join the LA Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal with a player option after clearing waivers. Despite being linked to Beal before his buyout, the Warriors front office reportedly hesitated financially. League sources revealed Golden State was unwilling to offer Beal more than a minimum contract, unlike the Milwaukee Bucks who made a strong push. The Miami Heat were also limited to a minimum offer after acquiring Norman Powell. While avoiding overpaying for an aging star coming off a mediocre season might seem prudent, analysts note the Warriors might need to take risks on potential difference-makers. Beal's Clippers deal at $11 million over two years represents the type of contract many hoped Golden State could have offered.
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FA/Extension Rumors: Giddey, Suns, Young, Doncic
Restricted free agent Josh Giddey has been in Las Vegas but has not attended Chicago Bulls Summer League games. Despite this, there are no indications that contract negotiations between Giddey and the Bulls have become contentious. Giddey had lunch with Bulls head coach Billy Donovan in Las Vegas, and his agent was scheduled to meet with team executives during the week. Contract talks face a significant gap, with Giddey reportedly seeking around $30 million per year while the Bulls prefer a figure closer to $20 million per year. Although bridging this gap may take time, multiple sources anticipate that Giddey and the Bulls will eventually reach an agreement on a new contract. Additional NBA free agent notes include the possibility of a reunion between Cameron Payne and the Phoenix Suns. Unverified speculation also mentions a potential sign-and-trade scenario sending Giddey to the Memphis Grizzlies.
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Milwaukee Bucks: Recently Waived Wing Defender Is Absolutely Not the Small Forward This Team Needs
The Milwaukee Bucks still need a starting-caliber small forward or a reliable wing defender, but the article argues they should avoid signing recently waived Charlotte Hornets player Josh Okogie. While Okogie, a seven-year veteran known for his on-ball defense despite being undersized for a wing at 6-foot-4, is available for the veteran's minimum, he is deemed a poor fit for the Bucks. The article outlines several reasons against signing Okogie. Firstly, the Bucks already possess multiple guards and forwards around his height (like Gary Trent Jr., Kevin Porter Jr., Andre Jackson Jr.) who can defend shooting guards or smaller small forwards, but lack true wing-sized players beyond Jackson and Trent. Okogie himself is considered closer to a shooting guard than a small forward. Secondly, Okogie is described as a "terrible shooter," citing inconsistent performance and a career three-point percentage of 29.9%, which would exacerbate the Bucks' existing offensive limitations with players like Andre Jackson. Thirdly, he offers little facilitation ability. Signing the 27-year-old Okogie would likely require cutting another player, probably Jackson, who has a similar defensive profile but is younger. Despite Okogie's potential availability and defensive reputation fitting a surface need, the article concludes that his specific shortcomings in size, shooting, and offensive versatility give the Bucks no good reason to pursue him, advising Milwaukee to steer clear.
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Kiefer Ravena returns as Strong Group dominates Australia for 4-0 start
Kiefer Ravena made a strong return for Strong Group-Philippines, helping them dominate Australia 91-75 in the 2025 William Jones Cup on Wednesday. Ravena, who missed the first three games, provided a crucial spark in the fourth quarter as the Philippines remained undefeated at 4-0 in their title defense. Australia fell to a 2-3 record. Despite significant contributions from Filipino-Australians James Spencer and Mac Stodart, Australia couldn't overcome the Philippines. Spencer, a former University of the Philippines player, hit key baskets in the fourth, including a three-pointer that cut the deficit to 65-76. However, Ravena immediately countered with two consecutive three-pointers himself, extending the lead to 84-67. Javi Gomez de Liaño then sealed the victory with another three-pointer. Andre Roberson led Strong Group-Philippines with a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds, adding six assists and a steal. Ian Miller and Tajuan Agee each contributed 12 points. Kiefer Ravena scored 9 points in his return, while Dave Ildefonso added 10 points. For Australia, Mac Stodart led the way with 19 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block. James Spencer finished with 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists. Strong Group-Philippines aims for its fifth consecutive win on Thursday against Chinese Taipei White at 5 p.m.
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Speculated Celtics Target Reportedly Joins Contender After Buyout
Bradley Beal has agreed to a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns and plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal that includes a player option for next summer, allowing him to become a free agent again. Before choosing the Clippers, Beal reportedly considered joining the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, or Minnesota Timberwolves, with the latter three teams having extensive recent conversations with him. Despite Beal's close friendship with Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, a move to Boston was unlikely. Tatum is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025-26 season, and the Celtics' financial situation further hindered any potential interest. Separately, Damian Lillard, recently bought out by the Milwaukee Bucks, has been linked to the Celtics. Reports indicate mutual interest between Lillard and the team, with Tatum actively pitching the nine-time All-Star on joining Boston.
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2025/26 NBA Roster Counts
NBA teams are permitted to carry up to 21 players during the offseason, exceeding the regular season limit of 15 players. This expanded roster allows teams to sign players to non-guaranteed contracts, providing opportunities for those players to earn a regular season spot or be evaluated before potential assignment to the G League affiliate. In addition to the standard 15-man roster, NBA teams can also have up to three players on two-way contracts. These two-way players grant the team NBA rights to extra players, although they typically spend significant time in the G League. Crucially, while two-way players do not count against the 15-man regular season roster limit, they are included within the 21-man offseason roster limit. The article states that roster counts for all NBA teams will be tracked throughout the 2025 offseason and the 2025/26 season, categorizing players into specific groups. A list of team roster counts for the 2025/26 season is being maintained and updated, with the latest update provided as July 16, 2025, at 10:35 am CT, listing several teams starting from the Atlanta Hawks through the Golden State Warriors.
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New CBA Approved For Rockridge Teachers
The Rockridge School District and Rockridge Teachers Association have finalized a new three-year Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). This CBA, covering 2025-2028, was officially approved at the Rockridge District Board of Education meeting in July. The agreement grants district staff a 5% raise to their base salary each year. Additionally, it introduces a $750 annual longevity bonus for teachers who have completed 15 years of teaching within the Rockridge School District. The new Collective Bargaining Agreement will remain in effect through the 2027-28 school year.
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Liberty Star Sabrina Ionescu Among City's Top Athletes
SNY released its ranking of the top 10 metropolitan professional athletes, with New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu placing ninth. The list was headlined by New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge in the top spot. Ionescu is one of three basketball players on the list, joined by New York Knicks players Jalen Brunson (second) and Karl-Anthony Towns (fifth). SNY's analysis highlights Ionescu as a key reason the Liberty won their first-ever WNBA championship last year, ending New York City's professional basketball title drought since 1973. She is recognized as the Liberty's most recognizable star due to her regular-season performances, four All-Star selections, setting the WNBA three-point contest record (37 points) in 2023, and her competitive performance against Stephen Curry in the "Sabrina vs. Stephen" event. Since being drafted first overall in 2020, Ionescu has become the undisputed homegrown face of the Liberty franchise. She was instrumental in their championship run last fall, notably hitting a game-winning buzzer-beater in Game 3 of the Finals against the Minnesota Lynx. This season, Ionescu became the Liberty's all-time leader in three-pointers and earned her fourth All-Star selection, where she aims to defend her three-point contest title. She is averaging a career-high 18.8 points per game through her first 19 games, showing improvements in her mid-range and defensive play. Aaron Judge leads the SNY list amid a dominant season where he hit 35 home runs by the MLB All-Star break. Other baseball players on the list include Francisco Lindor (third) and Juan Soto (fourth). Ionescu's Liberty teammate Breanna Stewart received an honorable mention.
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Warriors still have huge chance to complete what few think possible
The Golden State Warriors began free agency with only nine contracted players but have made no moves in over a week, causing fan frustration about their offseason prospects. However, the team still has opportunities to improve its roster despite the slow start, as several impactful free agents remain available. Financial constraints limit the Warriors' flexibility, with significant salary cap space tied to Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. Major roster changes were always unlikely, especially given the team's strong 23-7 record with Butler late last season. The only confirmed departure is Kevon Looney, who joined the Pelicans after receiving no offer from Golden State. Kevin Knox, Braxton Key, and Pat Spencer are unlikely to return, while Gary Payton II could re-sign on team-friendly terms. Jonathan Kuminga's restricted free agency situation is delaying other moves. The Warriors maintain control over negotiations in a weak market for restricted free agents and prioritize securing the right deal over rushing. Meanwhile, viable free-agent options persist that could bolster the roster. Golden State appears poised to sign veterans Al Horford and De'Anthony Melton, who would provide starter-level upgrades over departed role players. Remaining roster spots could target frontcourt spacing specialists like Chris Boucher or Trey Lyles. For higher-risk, high-reward moves, the Warriors might pursue Bradley Beal if he becomes a free agent via buyout, or consider Damian Lillard post-All-Star break following his Achilles recovery. Kuminga's resolution remains central—either through an immediate sign-and-trade or a contract facilitating a mid-season trade. These potential moves outline a clear pathway for Golden State to assemble a stronger roster than last season's second-round playoff exit team, though contention in the competitive Western Conference remains uncertain.
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Denver Nuggets Announce Signing of NBA Champion
The Denver Nuggets have faced consecutive second-round playoff exits since winning the 2023 championship, despite having star player Nikola Jokic. The team is actively working to return to championship form during the offseason. As part of significant roster moves, including acquiring Cam Johnson, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Jonas Valanciunas, the Nuggets have signed free agent guard Bruce Brown. This move is particularly exciting to fans, as Brown was a key contributor to their 2023 championship run. Brown has agreed to a one-year deal, returning to Denver after playing for the Indiana Pacers, Toronto Raptors, and New Orleans Pelicans since the 2023 title. The Nuggets officially announced the signing of the 28-year-old guard/forward. Brown, who stands 6-4 and weighs 202 pounds, has played 457 career games over seven seasons with multiple teams, averaging 8.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. During his previous season with Denver (2022-23), he achieved career-highs in points (11.5), assists (3.4), steals (1.08), and minutes (28.5), helping secure the franchise's first NBA championship. He will wear #11 for the Nuggets again.
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‘NBA on Prime’ nails first ad starring Blake Griffin, Chet Holmgren
The NBA has secured Amazon and NBC as new broadcast partners, with Amazon's Prime Video launching promotional content for its coverage starting this fall. A new commercial for the Emirates NBA Cup in-season tournament features Blake Griffin and Chet Holmgren. In the ad, Griffin humorously portrays a clueless Oklahoman attempting to claim the Thunder's NBA championship. He video calls Holmgren like an overly familiar uncle and delivers an unsolicited, goofy motivational speech. Prime Video released this commercial alongside the announcement of the NBA Cup group draw and schedule. The commercial includes subtle details likely to excite NBA fans, such as Holmgren appearing at his Minnehaha High School and both players referencing the NBA Summer League (despite Amazon not airing those games). Griffin also hums the "What a Girl Wants" parody from Holmgren's AT&T ad after the call. Amazon clearly views the in-season tournament as a key part of its package and positions Griffin as a star of its broadcast team, while also elevating Holmgren's profile. The ad, focusing on Holmgren's backstory and showcasing Griffin positively, appears to be a strategic move by Amazon to engage fans following recent discussions about the league's viewership and star power.
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Recasting Watchmen: Ralph, Javier, Cameron and Demi, You Shoulda Done It!
The Watchmen film adaptation has received mixed reviews, with fans enthusiastic but critics largely unimpressed. While director Zack Snyder is acknowledged for faithfully recreating Alan Moore's graphic novel, significant criticism is directed at the casting choices. Patrick Wilson as Nite Owl II and Jackie Earle Haley as Rorschach are praised as ideal casting. Jeffrey Dean Morgan is defended as The Comedian over Robert Downey Jr., deemed "too nice" for the role. However, the remainder of the cast is criticized. The author proposes recasting several roles: Demi Moore instead of Carla Gugino as Silk Spectre I, citing Moore's seniority and acting quality. For Silk Spectre II, Cameron Diaz is suggested to replace Malin Akerman (a Diaz look-alike), with Maggie Grace proposed for younger flashback scenes. Billy Crudup is criticized as Dr. Manhattan for lacking the necessary laconic, soulless quality. Javier Bardem is recommended instead, highlighting his resonant baritone from "No Country for Old Men" as fitting for the character. Matthew Goode is deemed too young and unconvincing as the supremely intelligent Ozymandias. Ralph Fiennes is proposed as a replacement, praised for his acting caliber and ability to handle extensive exposition while embodying the character's affected boredom.
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Maple Leafs announcer Joe Bowen calls out fans for ‘very disappointing’ crowd
Toronto Maple Leafs radio announcer Joe Bowen publicly criticized the team's fanbase for a "very disappointing" lack of energy during their Game 3 Stanley Cup Playoffs loss to the Boston Bruins on Wednesday. Bowen took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration, stating the crowd was "VERY DISAPPOINTING" and emphasizing that fans should be "PRO ACTIVE" in giving energy to the team rather than waiting to be reactive. While acknowledging Bowen's point about the unusually quiet playoff atmosphere resembling a "library," the report highlights a significant caveat omitted from his critique: extremely high ticket prices. Multiple sources, including reactions to Bowen's comments and a journalist's tweet, pointed out that seats cost $427 per person for the game. This price point was deemed "ridiculous" and identified as a key factor pricing out the average fan, especially for a non-elimination game. The article contrasts the playoff atmosphere with the Leafs' regular season attendance, noting the team filled Scotiabank Arena to 99.8% capacity (18,789 fans on average out of 18,819 seats) across 41 home games in 2023-24. It argues that the "very disappointing" playoff crowd energy stems primarily from prohibitive ticket prices, not a lack of fan support in general, suggesting Bowen's criticism failed to acknowledge this economic barrier preventing fans from filling the arena vocally.
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San Jose Hells Angels leader’s killing: Key witness says he lied
The star witness whose testimony helped convict Ernesto Gonzalez for the 2011 killing of Hells Angels boss Jeffrey "Jethro" Pettigrew has recanted, admitting he lied about the shooting being an assassination plot orchestrated by a rival motorcycle gang. Gonzalez received a life sentence for fatally shooting Pettigrew at a crowded Nevada casino, with the witness—Gary "Jabbers" Rudnick—having testified under a plea deal for leniency. Following Pettigrew's killing, another Hells Angel, Steve Tausan, was shot dead by colleague Steve Ruiz at Pettigrew's funeral. The dispute reportedly centered on whether Ruiz could have prevented Pettigrew's death during the casino altercation. Gonzalez maintains his innocence, claiming he fired in self-defense because Pettigrew and another associate were violently beating his partner. Legal experts note the recanted testimony complicates the case, highlighting concerns about witness reliability when testimony is exchanged for reduced sentences.
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Brian Windhorst Reveals Obvious Cavaliers, LeBron James Take
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.
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Huge Hollywood Brown Injury News Emerges After Chiefs' 1st Loss of Season
Kansas City Chiefs receiver Marquise "Hollywood" Brown may return to action sooner than initially anticipated, according to a report from Matt Derrick of Chiefs Digest. This follows a cryptic social media post hinting at his imminent return. Brown has been sidelined for the entire season after suffering a shoulder injury in the Chiefs' first preseason game. Matt Derrick reported that Brown's recovery is progressing "extremely well" and indicated that the team could activate his 21-day practice window within the next few weeks, potentially as soon as next week but more likely the week after. Derrick stated, "I think we see him sooner than later." This potential return is significant for the struggling Chiefs offense, offering a "massive boost." There were prior concerns Brown might not play at all this season after signing only a one-year deal. Brown, a talented receiver who had a 1,000-yard season just three years ago, would make the offense "much more dangerous" if available for the crucial stretch run of the season. Brown's return is part of a positive trend for the Chiefs, with running back Isiah Pacheco and defensive end Charles Omenihu also expected back within the next two weeks. While Brown is unlikely to play in the upcoming games against the Panthers, Raiders, or Chargers, speculation points to a possible regular-season debut on December 15th against the Cleveland Browns. Regardless of the exact date, the report suggests Brown will be back on the field when the Chiefs need him most.
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Tawa’s Club Volleyball Dots: The growth of AAUs, getting ready and getting rated
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.
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New East tiers: How injuries, offseason movement reshaped the conference
The 2025 NBA postseason saw devastating Achilles injuries to stars Damian Lillard, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton, drastically altering the Eastern Conference landscape before the offseason. With the fallout settled, the conference—aiming to challenge the dominant West—now features a reshuffled hierarchy assessed through six tiers. The Cleveland Cavaliers, coming off a 64-win season and top seed status, face challenges including Darius Garland's extended absence due to toe surgery and the loss of backup Ty Jerome to Memphis. However, the acquisition of Lonzo Ball (traded for Isaac Okoro) offsets Jerome's departure. Despite roster adjustments reducing luxury-tax burdens, Cleveland remains a top contender with stars Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, alongside role players like Max Strus and De'Andre Hunter under coach Kenny Atkinson. The New York Knicks, fresh off their first conference finals appearance in 25 years, fired their coach while declaring a championship mandate. Enhanced depth with additions Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele addresses weaknesses exposed by Indiana in the playoffs. With rivals weakened—Indiana losing Haliburton and Myles Turner (to Milwaukee), and Boston without Tatum, Porzingis (traded), Holiday (traded), and Kornet (to Spurs)—New York, under new coach Mike Brown, faces "Finals or bust" pressure in an open contention lane. The Orlando Magic capitalized on the East's upheaval by trading Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four first-round picks to Memphis for star Desmond Bane. This aggressive move aims to elevate a team that showed promise last season with elite defense but struggled with perimeter shooting. Bane's arrival provides spacing and a clear top-four core alongside Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs. If healthy, Orlando is poised for 50+ wins. The Atlanta Hawks made the most significant offseason leap, acquiring Kristaps Porzingis and Nickeil Alexander-Walker to bolster defense, plus sharpshooter Luke Kennard. They also secured New Orleans' unprotected 2026 first-round pick while minimally sacrificing draft position. Building on last season's success pairing Dyson Daniels with Trae Young, Atlanta now boasts an elite defensive scheme and deep rotation, positioning them as serious contenders in the wide-open East.
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7 of the cutest basketball couples from the WNBA
The WNBA features several inspiring couples who formed through shared basketball careers, with their relationships thriving both on and off the court. These partnerships often begin as teammates or college connections, benefiting from mutual understanding of the professional athletic lifestyle. Notable couples include DeWanna Bonner and Alyssa Thomas, who grew close after Bonner joined Thomas' team, the Connecticut Sun, in 2020, leading to their engagement in 2023. NaLyssa Smith and DiJonai Carrington, former Baylor teammates, reunited professionally with the Dallas Wings in 2025 before Smith was traded to the Aces later that year. New York Liberty's Natasha Cloud and Isabelle Harrison confirmed their relationship in 2025, with Cloud crediting Harrison for bringing calm and focus to her life. Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd, longtime friends since high school basketball camps and UConn teammates, went public as a couple in 2025 after Bueckers became the WNBA Draft's top pick. Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley, former Chicago Sky teammates turned wives, made history as the first married couple to win a professional sports championship. They married in 2018 and welcomed their first child in 2025. Breanna Stewart and Marta Xargay Casademont met playing overseas in Russia; they bonded after Stewart's injury, marrying and having a child via surrogate in 2021, with Xargay Casademont retiring while Stewart continued her decorated career. Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor, Phoenix Mercury teammates for over a decade and three-time champions, married in 2017 after Taylor's retirement. They have two children, with Taylor later serving as an assistant coach while Taurasi extended her record-breaking playing career.
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Victor Wembanyama Parties At Tokyo Club During Vacation
Victor Wembanyama was seen enjoying himself at the 1OAK Tokyo nightclub in Japan early last Sunday morning. The 7'3" San Antonio Spurs center was captured on video hanging out with players from Japan's professional basketball league while the song "Get it Sexyy" by Sexyy Red played. Sources described Wembanyama as being very friendly and welcoming to everyone around him, both women and men. He reportedly spent about 90 minutes at the club before leaving. Since the NBA season ended, Wembanyama has been spending significant time in Asia. This trip included a 10-day retreat at the Shaolin Temple in Zhengzhou, China. He was also spotted playing soccer with locals in Tokyo, Japan. Social media posts invited him to join future soccer/futsal sessions in Tokyo. The 21-year-old French star has a new look, having shaved his head into a buzz cut. This leisure time follows a season cut short for the Spurs superstar due to a blood clot in his shoulder. The Spurs organization stated they expected him to make a full recovery and be ready for training camp starting in October.
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Kevin Durant Officially Lands With Rockets as Part of 7-Team Mega Trade
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.
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Kai Sotto undergoes ACL operation
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.
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