Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams pointed to his team's self-inflicted miscues as a pi...

Oklahoma City Thunder forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a> pointed to his team's self-inflicted miscues as a pivotal factor in Wednesday's 116-107 Game 3 defeat to the Indiana Pacers."We just had a lot of unforced errors," Williams told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45497049/thunder-point-unforced-errors-game-3-loss-pacers">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>. "They capitalized on them because they're a good team."Oklahoma City led the NBA during both the regular season and the playoffs in points off turnovers, but the Thunder got a taste of their own medicine in Game 3.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Indiana tallied 21 points off 17 turnovers, including back-to-back buckets to even up the contest at 95 with 8:33 remaining.The Pacers' defensive energy was evident throughout the fourth quarter. Reserve guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6158" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6158">T.J. McConnell</a> recorded two of his game-high five steals in the final frame.Indiana's full-court pressure prevented Oklahoma City from getting into any offensive flow during the fourth quarter, as they were limited to just 18 points. The Thunder trio of Williams, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> combined for only 11 points on 4-of-13 shooting."To win games of this magnitude, at this level, we have to be better," Holmgren said. "We need to close games, close quarters, close possessions. It doesn't just come down to the end of the game. We got to figure out how to put ourselves in a better position for the whole 48 minutes."Indiana can take a commanding 3-1 series lead with a Game 4 victory on Friday.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JUNE 11: Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers during Game Three of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 11, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Jalen Williams: Pacers capitalized on our 'unforced errors'

The New York Knicks are increasing their focus on Mike Brown and Taylor Jenkins after they were r...

The New York Knicks are increasing their focus on Mike Brown and Taylor Jenkins after they were <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3299126" href="https://thescore.com/news/3299126">reportedly</a> denied permission to speak with five different employed head coaches, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6420801/2025/06/12/knicks-coach-search-permission-denials-tom-thibodeau-firing/">The Athletic's Sam Amick</a>.New York plans to finalize its shortlist of head coaching candidates in the coming days, adds Amick.Brown apparently left a very strong impression on the Knicks' brass when he interviewed for the position in 2020, Amick reports.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 55-year-old is coming off a respectable 107-88 tenure with the Sacramento Kings. He won his second Coach of the Year Award during his first campaign in Sacramento after guiding the franchise to its first playoff berth in 16 seasons.Brown previously spent six seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers over two stints and parts of two campaigns in charge of the Los Angeles Lakers. The 55-year-old has also been an assistant for Gregg Popovich and Steve Kerr.Meanwhile, Jenkins was shockingly dismissed by the Memphis Grizzlies last March with just nine games left in the regular season.Jenkins posted a 250-214 record across six seasons, including three consecutive playoff appearances. The Grizzlies fell in six contests to the eventual champion Golden State Warriors in the second round of the 2022 NBA playoffs.Jenkins was on Mike Budenholzer's coaching staff for six campaigns before earning his first lead gig with Memphis in 2019.New York moved on from Tom Thibodeau last week after the 67-year-old led the club to its first East final in 25 years.

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 19: Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown reacts towards his bench during their game against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half at Golden 1 Center on December 19, 2024 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Report: Knicks shift focus to Brown, Jenkins after rejections

Dallas Wings head coach Chris Koclanes says Paige Bueckers is "good to go" for Wednesday's matchu...

Dallas Wings head coach Chris Koclanes says <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/171763" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/171763">Paige Bueckers</a> is "good to go" for Wednesday's matchup against the Phoenix Mercury after missing the past four games due to concussion protocols and illness, according to <a href="https://x.com/JoeyMistretta_/status/1932497949302329697">ClutchPoints' Joey Mistretta</a>.Koclanes added that Bueckers won't be on a minutes restriction in her first appearance since May 29. The Wings went 0-4 with the rookie guard sidelined.The No. 1 overall pick in this year's WNBA draft was off to a solid start, averaging 14.7 points, 6.7 assists, 4.5 boards, 2.0 steals, and 1.0 blocks through her first six appearances.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dallas has a plus-9.4 net rating with Bueckers on the floor.Meanwhile, the Wings ruled out backup guard Ty Harris for the remainder of the campaign.Harris also missed the last four games before undergoing season-ending knee surgery. She averaged 4.6 points and 2.6 assists in 16.4 minutes across five appearances.Harris is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

UNCASVILLE, CT - MAY 27: Paige Bueckers #5 of the Dallas Wings drives to the basket during the game against the Connecticut Sun on May 27, 2025 at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Bueckers 'good to go' vs. Mercury after 4-game absence

Jay Wright has informed the New York Knicks that he's not interested in any coaching position wit...

Jay Wright has informed the New York Knicks that he's not interested in any coaching position with the club and plans to remain retired, the former Villanova head coach told <a href="https://x.com/SethDavisHoops/status/1931419665043218568">Seth Davis of Hoops HQ</a>.Wright discussed the Knicks' head coaching gig briefly with Leon Rose - the team's president of basketball operations - but was never offered the job or asked to interview for the position, <a href="https://x.com/SethDavisHoops/status/1931420148210225424">Davis</a> added.Wright shockingly retired in 2022 after guiding the Wildcats to a pair of national titles over 21 years at the helm. He also won eight Big East regular-season titles, five Big East Tournament crowns, and a pair of Naismith College Coach of the Year awards during his tenure.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Wright's 520 victories are an all-time school record. He was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 2021.Wright joined CBS Sports and TNT Sports as a college basketball analyst after he retired from coaching.New York is seeking a new head coach after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295336" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295336">firing</a> Tom Thibodeau on Tuesday. The club is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3296767" href="https://thescore.com/news/3296767">reportedly</a> expected to request an interview with Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd.

VILLANOVA, PA - FEBRUARY 8: Jalen Brunson and Jay Wright, former Head Coach of Villanova Mens Basketball talk to the media after his jersey retirement on February 8, 2023 at Finneran Pavilion in Villanova, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE

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Jay Wright not interested in Knicks' head coaching vacancy

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder became the latest comeback victims of the I...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> and the Oklahoma City Thunder became the latest comeback victims of the Indiana Pacers.Pacers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> drilled a mid-range pull-up jumper with 0.3 seconds left to give the visiting side a stunning 111-110 victory Thursday night in Game 1 of the NBA Finals."We had control of the game for the most part of it. Now, it is a 48-minute game, and (the Pacers) teach you that lesson more than anyone else in the league the hard way," Gilgeous-Alexander told reporters postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/ESPNNBA/status/1930836818494193772">ESPN</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Oklahoma City led by as many as 15 points in the fourth quarter. The Thunder's top-ranked defense gave Indiana fits throughout the contest, tallying 14 steals and forcing 24 turnovers.However, the Pacers refused to go away as they've done all postseason. They outscored the home team 32-16 over the final 9:42, capped by yet another clutch basket from Haliburton.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
TYRESE HALIBURTON GIVES THE PACERS THE LEAD! GET TO ABC NOW FOR THE FINISH! <a href="https://t.co/l4SPrNspGG">pic.twitter.com/l4SPrNspGG</a>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1930823840214487089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Haliburton now has five go-ahead or game-tying field goals in the final five seconds of the fourth quarter and overtime since the 1997 playoffs, <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1930827702962892965">trailing</a> only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> who has eight.It was also the Pacers' fifth 15-point comeback victory in this year's playoffs, which is the most by any team since 1998."We never think the game is over ever. That never creeps in," Haliburton said after Thursday's contest, according to <a href="https://x.com/MarcJSpears/status/1930838624657912220">Andscape's Marc J. Spears</a>.The Finals resume at 8 p.m. ET Sunday in Oklahoma City.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 5: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder rebounds the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers during Game One of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 5, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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SGA: Pacers teach you it's a 48-minute game 

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added another trophy to his cabinet Wednesday.  The Oklahoma City Thunder...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> added another trophy to his cabinet Wednesday.The Oklahoma City Thunder star won this year's Magic Johnson Trophy, given to the most valuable player of the Western Conference finals.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the Western Conference Finals MVP 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/pkcIHIjfg6">pic.twitter.com/pkcIHIjfg6</a>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1927925926106476552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Gilgeous-Alexander received all nine votes from the panel of media members.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The reigning NBA MVP averaged 30.5 points, 8.3 assists, 4.8 boards, and 1.8 steals through the first four games of the West finals. He had another big performance in Wednesday's series-clinching contest, tallying 34 points, eight assists, seven boards, and two steals in 34 minutes.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> were the previous winners of the Magic Johnson Trophy.Oklahoma City will play either the Indiana Pacers or New York Knicks in its first Finals appearance since 2012."This is a step in the right direction, but we have a lot more work to do, and we know that," Gilgeous-Alexander told <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1927926413631373606">ESPN's Lisa Salters</a> during the trophy presentation.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - MAY 28: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates with teammates after winning the Western Conference Finals MVP after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-94 in Game Five of the Western Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center on May 28, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Gilgeous-Alexander wins West finals MVP

The Chicago Sky are retiring Candace Parker's No. 3 jersey, the team announced Wednesday.  The ce...

The Chicago Sky are retiring Candace Parker's No. 3 jersey, the team announced Wednesday.The ceremony will take place Aug. 25 when the Sky take on the Las Vegas Aces."Growing up in Naperville, playing on courts around here with my brothers, and watching Chicago teams like the Bulls who became synonymous with winning, I never imagined one day my jersey would hang in the rafters of my hometown team," Parker said in a statement.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Coming home to Chicago and helping bring the city its first WNBA championship here - it was personal. I'm beyond grateful to the city, the fans, and everyone who's been part of my journey. Chicago raised me, and this will always be home."Parker signed with her hometown Sky in free agency after spending the first 13 seasons of her career with the Los Angeles Sparks. The two-time WNBA MVP was highly productive during her brief time in the Windy City, earning a pair of All-Star selections and an All-WNBA first-team nod.Parker averaged 13.2 points, 8.5 boards, 4.3 assists, and 1.1 blocks over 55 appearances with Chicago. She played a key role during the franchise's maiden championship run in 2021."Candace Parker is a legend, future hall-of-famer, and synonymous with Illinois basketball," Sky CEO and president Adam Fox said. "We're thrilled she decided to come home to Chicago to help the Sky win a championship in 2021."Candace has left an indelible mark on women's basketball at every level and has inspired countless players and fans through her outstanding leadership and basketball talent on and off the court. We are honored to retire her jersey and celebrate her incredible legacy as a Chicago Sky player."

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 31: Candace Parker #3 of the Chicago Sky celebrates a basket against the Connecticut Sun during the second half in Game Two of the 2022 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Wintrust Arena on August 31, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Sky retiring Candace Parker's jersey

St. John's star RJ Luis Jr. is "definitely remaining" in the NBA draft, his father told The Field...

St. John's star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103426" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103426">RJ Luis Jr.</a> is "definitely remaining" in the NBA draft, his father told <a href="https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/1927836750451187931">The Field of 68's Jeff Goodman</a>.All players who previously declared for the draft had until Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET to remove their names and maintain their college eligibility."There will be no change of heart," Luis' father told Goodman. "RJ's excited about the future. He's appreciative of St. John's, Coach Pitino, and the fans. He wants to leave college as Johnnie."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Luis had a breakout junior campaign as he led the Red Storm back to prominence. The 6-foot-7 guard averaged 18.2 points, 7.2 boards, 2.0 assists, and 1.4 steals across 35 appearances last season. He earned numerous accolades for his efforts, including consensus All-American second-team honors and Big East Player of the Year.However, Luis ended his college career on a sour note, scoring nine points on 3-of-17 shooting in St. John's season-ending loss to Arkansas in the Round of 32. Red Storm head coach Rick Pitino benched Luis for the final 4:56 in a two-point game.Luis <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3253151" href="https://thescore.com/news/3253151">declared</a> for the draft and entered the NCAA transfer portal a week after St. John's season ended, but maintained his college eligibility until Wednesday's decision to turn pro.North Carolina, Kansas, Ole Miss, Villanova, and Georgetown were among the schools that expressed interest in Luis, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45364506/former-st-john-star-rj-luis-jr-remain-nba-draft">ESPN's Jonathan Givony and Jeff Borzello</a>."We understand the situation, we were offered a lot of money to go back to college," Luis' father said. "But we have a plan and we're going to stick with the plan."

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 22: RJ Luis Jr. #12 of the St. John's Red Storm dribbles the ball in the first half of a college basketball game against the Xavier Musketeers at Madison Square Garden on January 22, 2025 in New York City. .

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St. John's star Luis staying in NBA draft

Kentucky leading scorer Otega Oweh is withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft and returning to Lexing...

Kentucky leading scorer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103080" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103080">Otega Oweh</a> is withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft and returning to Lexington for his senior year, the school announced Wednesday.All players who previously declared for the draft had until Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET to remove their names and maintain their college eligibility."I got great feedback from NBA teams, but the consensus was to come back to school and have a great year," Oweh told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/45363927/otega-oweh-withdraws-nba-draft-return-kentucky">ESPN's Jonathan Givony and Jeff Borzello</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I want to try and up my stock even more, and put myself in a position to win a national championship with all the possible accolades that come with that."Oweh joined Kentucky last season after spending the previous two years with Oklahoma. The 6-foot-5 guard shined in his first season with the Wildcats, averaging 16.2 points, 4.7 boards, 1.7 assists, and 1.6 steals across 36 appearances. His efforts earned him All-SEC second-team honors.Oweh's return is a huge boost for Mark Pope's squad as the program lost four of its five starters from last campaign.Pope had a busy offseason retooling his roster on the fly, landing Arizona State forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121786" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121786">Jayden Quaintance</a>, Pittsburgh guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110385" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110385">Jaland Lowe</a>, and Florida reserve <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103034" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103034">Denzel Aberdeen</a> in the transfer portal.Kentucky also added three four-star recruits, including McDonald's All-American center Malachi Moreno."We have the talent to be the No. 1 team in the country," Oweh said. "A lot of guys who are hungry to make that jump, and that intensity to go get national championship No. 9 for Kentucky. I'm excited to play with everyone. It will be a fun year."

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 23: Otega Oweh #00 of the Kentucky Wildcats dribbles against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Fiserv Forum on March 23, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Kentucky star Oweh returning for senior year

The Indiana Pacers had nothing but praise for Pascal Siakam after the All-Star forward dropped a ...

The Indiana Pacers had nothing but praise for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> after the All-Star forward dropped a playoff career-high 39 points in Game 2 against the New York Knicks."That's why we brought him here," Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> told reporters following their 114-109 win Friday, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45291394/pascal-siakam-drops-39-pacers-put-knicks-2-0-series-hole">ESPN's Jamal Collier</a>. "That's what he's here to do. He can get a bucket in so many different ways."We just kept feeding him, and I thought he did a great job of making big shot after big shot after big shot. Killing momentum. When you're in an environment like this, the crowd's getting into it, a lot of those shots can be backbreakers."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Indiana acquired Siakam from the Toronto Raptors in January 2024 as part of a three-team trade. The two-time All-NBA selection was a pivotal part of last season's Eastern Conference finals run and has continued to play a prominent role in the Pacers' return to the same stage.Siakam immediately responded from a modest performance in the series opener, scoring the Pacers' first 11 points in Game 2 en route to a 17-point first quarter.The former Most Improved Player made 7-of-9 contested field goals and 4-of-6 shots when guarded by ex-teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a>.Siakam has three 35-point games in the playoffs with Indiana, trailing only Reggie Miller and Paul George on the franchise's all-time list, according to ESPN research."He was the guy that got us going and got us through some difficult stretches," Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle said. "It's hard to score that number of points in a game like this where you always have a physical matchup defensively and there's a guy crashing and flying at the basket. But he did a phenomenal job. It's a quiet 39 points. It really was."Indiana can take a commanding 3-0 series lead with a victory on its home court Sunday.

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 23: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Indiana Pacers celebrates during the game against the New York Knicks during Game 2 of the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals on May 23, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Pacers praise Siakam for 39-point outburst vs. Knicks

The French Open is no longer a foregone conclusion.  Rafael Nadal's retirement opened things up o...

The French Open is no longer a foregone conclusion.Rafael Nadal's retirement opened things up on the men's side, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9550" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9550">Iga Swiatek</a> looks far from the player who earned the "Queen of Clay" nickname.Here are five storylines to watch when the action begins Sunday in Paris.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Sinner hasn't missed a beat</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786271/cropped_GettyImages-2215201284.jpg?ts=1747588930" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786271/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215201284.jpg?ts=1747588930 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786271/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215201284.jpg?ts=1747588930 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786271/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215201284.jpg?ts=1747588930 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786271/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215201284.jpg?ts=1747588930 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786271/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215201284.jpg?ts=1747588930 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</figcaption></figure>It hardly looks like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/9576" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/9576">Jannik Sinner</a> missed the last three months of action. The World No. 1 was sharp in his return from a doping ban this past week, dropping just one set before falling 7-6 (5), 6-1 to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/9643" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/9643">Carlos Alcaraz</a> in the Italian Open final. It was a tough way for Sinner to conclude his home tournament, but the three-time major winner can take solace in his overall body of work.Sinner secured a dominant 6-0, 6-1 quarterfinal victory over No. 6 seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/9373" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/9373">Casper Ruud</a>, winning 55-of-76 points and breaking the clay-court specialist's serve six times. Ruud entered the matchup riding a nine-match winning streak that included his first Masters 1000 crown in Madrid. But it was Sinner who seemed more like the in-form player, using his trademark consistency and power from the baseline to wear down the Norwegian."It was like playing a wall that shoots hundred-mile-an-hour balls at you all the time," Ruud told reporters post-match.<h3>Alcaraz in top form</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786608/cropped_GettyImages-2216026074.jpg?ts=1747775956" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786608/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216026074.jpg?ts=1747775956 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786608/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216026074.jpg?ts=1747775956 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786608/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216026074.jpg?ts=1747775956 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786608/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216026074.jpg?ts=1747775956 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786608/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216026074.jpg?ts=1747775956 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mondadori Portfolio / Mondadori Portfolio / Getty</figcaption></figure>Alcaraz is flying high ahead of his first French Open title defense. No player on the ATP Tour had a better clay-court swing - the Spanish phenom won Masters 1000 tournaments in Monte-Carlo and Rome to go along with a finals appearance at the Barcelona Open. Alcaraz joins Nadal, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/382" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/382">Novak Djokovic</a>, Gustavo Kuerten, and Marcelo Rios as the only men to capture all three Masters 1000 clay-court events.Alcaraz's triumph over Sinner in Rome was his fourth straight victory in their rivalry, which includes a thrilling five-set comeback win in last year's French Open semifinal. Alcaraz also snapped Sinner's 26-match winning streak and ended the Italian's scorching stretch of 24 consecutive sets won against top-10 opponents.Alcaraz rose to the occasion in the biggest moments, saving a pair of break points to keep himself in the opening set and then firing back-to-back aces en route to taking the first-set tiebreaker. The World No. 2's shot selection was masterful too; he picked the right times to charge the net or mix in a drop shot. Alcaraz is difficult to defeat on clay when he can combine his shot variation with his superb court coverage.<h3>Trophyless Swiatek</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786251/cropped_GettyImages-2213790892.jpg?ts=1747580399" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786251/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213790892.jpg?ts=1747580399 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786251/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213790892.jpg?ts=1747580399 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786251/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213790892.jpg?ts=1747580399 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786251/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213790892.jpg?ts=1747580399 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786251/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213790892.jpg?ts=1747580399 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Robert Prange / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Swiatek has been nearly unbeatable at Roland Garros, compiling a 35-2 career record and winning four of the last five tournaments. She's made the second week of the French Open in each of her six appearances. Swiatek's earliest exit came six years ago in the fourth round when she was making her main-draw debut. The Polish star's 81 wins on clay since 2021 are 19 clear of her closest competitor on the women's circuit. However, some serious questions surround her as she pursues her fourth straight title in Paris.Swiatek hasn't made a tournament final since winning last year's French Open. The 23-year-old's trophyless run dropped her to No. 5 in the WTA rankings and made her path to another title at Roland Garros a whole lot tougher. Swiatek could face <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9666" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9666">Elena Rybakina</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/5614" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/5614">Jelena Ostapenko</a> in the Round of 16. Both players have fared well against Swiatek, especially Ostapenko, who's a perfect 6-0 in their head-to-head matchup. The road to the championship match won't get any easier with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9412" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9412">Jasmine Paolini</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9379" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9379">Aryna Sabalenka</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9564" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9564">Coco Gauff</a> potentially awaiting in succession. Paolini and Sabalenka each enjoyed strong clay-court campaigns and Gauff won her last three meetings against Swiatek, including a 6-1, 6-1 rout in Madrid just three weeks ago.Swiatek also split with coach Tomasz Wiktorowski last October after a successful three-year run. Her new partnership with Wim Fissette has yet to pay major dividends despite the latter's strong track record with multiple World No. 1s.<h3>Djokovic's decline?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786249/cropped_GettyImages-2211484914.jpg?ts=1747580190" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786249/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211484914.jpg?ts=1747580190 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786249/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211484914.jpg?ts=1747580190 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786249/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211484914.jpg?ts=1747580190 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786249/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211484914.jpg?ts=1747580190 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786249/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211484914.jpg?ts=1747580190 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> OSCAR DEL POZO / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Is this the start of Djokovic's decline? The Serbian superstar failed to win a major last season, marking the first time in seven years that he didn't add a Grand Slam trophy to his cabinet. He's 14-7 in limited action this year, including a pair of three-match losing streaks. Djokovic was one-and-done at the marquee clay-court stops in Monte-Carlo and Madrid. He subsequently ended his coaching partnership with Andy Murray a few weeks after his defeat in the Spanish capital."We agreed that we should part ways as coach and player," Djokovic said at his press conference before the Geneva Open, per <a href="https://youtu.be/y7vMaRvPpig?si=v_622NBC473XoOco&amp;t=27">Sky Sports News</a>. "We felt like we couldn't get more out of that partnership on the court. ... We didn't reach what we both hoped that we can reach in a relationship in terms of results and that's all there is to it."Djokovic's current team features Serbian Billie Jean King Cup captain Dusan Vemic and former ATP player Boris Bosnjakovic. Both were in Djokovic's corner this week at the ATP 250 event in Geneva as the 24-time major champ accepted a main-draw wild card. It's not often that Djokovic competes in a tuneup event the week before a major, but he's evidently trying to create some momentum heading into Roland Garros.<h3>Don't sleep on Paolini</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786250/cropped_GettyImages-2215628115.jpg?ts=1747580298" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786250/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215628115.jpg?ts=1747580298 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786250/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215628115.jpg?ts=1747580298 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786250/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215628115.jpg?ts=1747580298 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786250/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215628115.jpg?ts=1747580298 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786250/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215628115.jpg?ts=1747580298 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Tullio Puglia / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Paolini continues to prove that her breakout 2024 campaign was no fluke. The 29-year-old cemented herself as one of the French Open favorites, needing just 89 minutes to dispatch Gauff 6-4, 6-2 in the Italian Open final. Paolini is the first Italian woman to win the nation's biggest tournament since Raffaella Reggi in 1985. It was also Paolini's second straight victory over Gauff in as many months.Paolini's had a strong buildup to the season's second major. She took home the Italian Open doubles title alongside countrywoman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/134" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/134">Sara Errani</a> and reached the semifinals of April's Stuttgart Open, where she fell to Sabalenka.Paolini should have plenty of confidence heading into Paris, especially after last year's run to the final. Her elite movement is a huge asset on the clay surface, and she's got the ability to crank up the power on her groundstrokes when needed.

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French Open storylines: Alcaraz's title defense and more

The Denver Nuggets announced Thursday they're removing the interim tag from David Adelman and mak...

The Denver Nuggets announced Thursday they're removing the interim tag from David Adelman and making him their next head coach.Denver was impressed with Adelman's work during his brief time as the full-time coach and moved swiftly to make him the permanent successor for Michael Malone, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1925628122164068687">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The Nuggets shockingly parted ways with Malone just before the postseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Adelman subsequently guided the team to a 3-0 mark in the regular season and was one victory away from helping the Nuggets reach their first Western Conference finals since capturing the NBA title in 2023."I knew that (Adelman) was more ready than people probably thought," Nuggets president Josh Kroenke said. "David went above and beyond where I thought that he would be."After Denver's season ended, Adelman received public support from multiple players, including three-time NBA MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> and starting forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a>.Adelman served as an assistant under Malone since 2017. The Oregon native also spent five years with the Minnesota Timberwolves as a player development coach and one campaign with the Orlando Magic on Frank Vogel's staff.Adelman's father, Rick, was an NBA head coach for parts of 23 seasons with five clubs.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MAY 18:Head Coach David Adelman of the Denver Nuggets looks on during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round 2 Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Nuggets promote Adelman to head coach

New York Knicks wing Josh Hart says a lack of execution down the stretch allowed the Indiana Pace...

New York Knicks wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30695" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30695">Josh Hart</a> says a lack of execution down the stretch allowed the Indiana Pacers to stage an improbable Game 1 comeback."Defensively, we let off the gas. The intensity and physicality weren't there," Hart told reporters after the Knicks' 138-135 overtime defeat, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45264106/knicks-acknowledge-let-late-game-1-loss-pacers">ESPN's Chris Herring</a>. "Offensively, we were playing slower and more stagnant. It looked like we were playing not to lose."New York led Indiana by as many as 17 points, including a 14-point advantage with 2:51 to go and a nine-point edge with 58 seconds remaining in regulation.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>But a flurry of threes from Pacers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93847" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93847">Aaron Nesmith</a>, a late turnover from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a>, and a missed free throw from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a> paved the way for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>'s game-tying basket at the buzzer.The Knicks appeared to right the ship in overtime when they scored the first four points, yet they squandered another opportunity to close out the visiting side.Indiana now has three seven-point comeback wins in the final minute this postseason.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
THE PACERS MOUNT an EPIC COMEBACK (again) to WIN GAME 1 of the ECF in OT 🔥 Down 17, 6:46 left in regulation. Down 14, 2:40 left in regulation. Down 9, 52 seconds left in regulation. 13 PTS in OT. Aaron Nesmith with 6 3PM &amp; Tyrese Haliburton with ANOTHER clutch shot 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/NBWNhphPMl">pic.twitter.com/NBWNhphPMl</a>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1925398661053522169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"There's a lot of things we did good, and we put ourselves in position to win," said Knicks big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a>. "We played 46 good minutes. Those two minutes (are) where we lost the game, and that's on all of us."The Knicks hope to avoid going down 0-2 when the Eastern Conference finals resume Friday at 8 p.m. ET.

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 21: Jalen Brunson #11 and Josh Hart #3 of the New York Knicks looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers during Game 1 of the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals on May 21, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Hart on Knicks' Game 1 collapse: 'We were playing not to lose'

Former Kansas star Jacque Vaughn is returning to his alma mater as an assistant on Bill Self's co...

Former Kansas star Jacque Vaughn is returning to his alma mater as an assistant on Bill Self's coaching staff, the Hall of Famer announced Wednesday.Vaughn had a decorated playing career with the Jayhawks, earning consensus All-American second-team honors twice and Big Eight Player of the Year in 1996. His No. 11 jersey was retired by the program in December 2002."We're very excited to welcome Jacque and (his wife) Laura into the fold," Self said in a statement. "I've known Jacque from a distance for several years now and have always admired how he has conducted himself professionally and how he has treated people.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I think he will be an excellent addition to our program while also serving as a great mentor, coach, and representative of Kansas basketball."Vaughn was most recently the Brooklyn Nets' head coach, guiding them to a 71-68 record over parts of three seasons and a pair of playoff appearances.The 50-year-old also had a three-year stint as the lead man for the Orlando Magic, posting a 58-158 mark.Vaughn was previously an assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs under Gregg Popovich from 2010-12."I'm truly honored and overwhelmed with excitement to return to my alma mater and join Coach Self's staff as an assistant coach," Vaughn said. "The game of basketball has provided me the incredible privilege to mentor, coach, and compete alongside some of the best in the game."I couldn't pass up the opportunity to bring those experiences back to the school that means so much to me. It's a blessing to once again be part of the Jayhawk tradition."

Boston, MA - February 14: Brooklyn Nets head coach Jacque Vaughn yells in the first half. The Nets lost to the Boston Celtics, 136-86.

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Former Kansas star Jacque Vaughn joining Self's staff

Anthony Edwards knows he has to be much better following the Minnesota Timberwolves' lopsided 114...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> knows he has to be much better following the Minnesota Timberwolves' lopsided 114-88 Game 1 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder."I definitely got to shoot more," Edwards told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45248300/optimistic-edwards-felt-great-wolves-game-1-loss">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. "I only took 13 f-----g shots. ... Probably just get off the ball a little more, play without the ball. I think that will be the answer. Because playing on the ball, they're just going to double and sit in the gaps all day."So, got to go watch some film and pick it apart. We'll figure it out."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Edwards managed just 18 points on 5-of-13 shooting to go along with four turnovers. It was the fewest field-goal attempts for the All-Star guard this postseason.Edwards' bread-and-butter all season was his ability to get into the teeth of the defense. The 23-year-old averaged 8.5 points on 13.2 drives per contest during the regular season. He had just one field-goal attempt in the paint against the Thunder in Game 1.Edwards credited Oklahoma City's defensive scheme for forcing him to become a passer.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> was the only other T-Wolves player to register double digits in scoring, tallying a team-high 28 points on 9-of-13 shooting.The Thunder's top-ranked defense held Minnesota to 29.4% shooting from deep and 34.9% overall."I mean, they clogged the paint," Edwards said. "That's what they do. They don't got much size down there, so they bank on us not making shots, I guess. Because every time I go to the rim, it's like four people in the paint."The Timberwolves will try to avoid going down 0-2 when they square off with the Thunder again Thursday.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MAY 20: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves handles the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game One of the Western Conference Finals on May 20, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Ant shoulders Game 1 loss: 'I only took 13 f-----g shots'

Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman praised Aaron Gordon's effort for playing through a hamst...

Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman praised <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a>'s effort for playing through a hamstring strain in the team's 125-93 Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder."Gordon is incredible," Adelman said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SIChrisMannix/status/1924228163405758519">Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated</a>. "What he played with today, I don't know many people that would even attempt to go run up and down ... one of the most incredible things I've ever seen."Gordon recorded eight points and 11 rebounds in 25 minutes Sunday after being given the green light following the pregame warmup.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The injury, which occurred during the Nuggets' Game 6 win, is a Grade 2 strain and will need several weeks to heal, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1924099706130514392">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> reports.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> led the Nuggets in scoring with 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a> added 19 points, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> contributed 13.Gordon was a key part of the Nuggets' playoff run, averaging 16.2 points, 7.6 boards, and 2.7 assists across 14 appearances. The 6-foot-8 forward had his share of clutch moments in this postseason, including a game-winning triple against the Thunder in the series opener.Denver was scoring 28 more points per 100 possessions with Gordon on the floor in the playoffs entering Game 7.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MAY 18: Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder plays defense during the game against the Denver Nuggets during Round 2 Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Adelman: Gordon 'incredible' for playing through injury in Game 7

David Fizdale and James Borrego headline the list of candidates that have advanced to the second ...

David Fizdale and James Borrego headline the list of candidates that have advanced to the second round of interviews for the Phoenix Suns' head coaching vacancy, sources told NBA insider <a href="https://youtu.be/cPcrziN8xso?si=2_ds5fzJ1Sk7Ksp3&amp;t=141">Chris Haynes</a>.Fizdale has spent the past two seasons as an assistant coach for the Suns. The 50-year-old previously served as head coach for the Memphis Grizzlies and New York Knicks, posting a 71-134 record over four seasons.Fizdale's best campaign came in 2016-17 when he guided Memphis to a 43-39 record and a first-round playoff exit to the San Antonio Spurs. He won a pair of NBA titles in 2012 and 2013 with the Miami Heat as a member of Erik Spoelstra's staff.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Borrego served as an associate head coach for the New Orleans Pelicans last season. The New Mexico native was a longtime assistant in San Antonio for Gregg Popovich, including during the Spurs' 2005 and 2007 championship runs.Borrego previously went 138-163 over four seasons as the lead man for the Charlotte Hornets. He was reportedly among the Los Angeles Lakers' head coaching targets a year ago before ultimately losing the job to JJ Redick.Micah Nori of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Sean Sweeney of the Dallas Mavericks, Dave Bliss of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Steve Hetzel of the Brooklyn Nets, and Cleveland Cavaliers assistants Johnnie Bryant and Jordan Ott are the other candidates on the Suns' shortlist, adds Haynes.

PORTLAND, OREGON - FEBRUARY 03: Assistant coach David Fizdale of the Phoenix Suns looks on before the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on February 03, 2025 in Portland, Oregon.

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Report: David Fizdale, Pelicans' Borrego on Suns' head coach shortlist

Stephanie White is exactly where she's supposed to be.  The new Indiana Fever head coach had many...

Stephanie White is exactly where she's supposed to be.The new Indiana Fever head coach had many reasons to return home for a second stint after splitting with the Connecticut Sun last October.White starred for Purdue during its national championship run in 1999, played four seasons for the Fever, and later guided her home-state WNBA team to the 2015 Finals in her first season as a head coach.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>But the prospect of coaching a rising contender led by superstar Caitlin Clark stood out most as White contemplated her next stop."Part of filling your cup in coaching is not just working with great players and working with great people, but it's how they go to work and how they show up … This is a competitive group. This is a selfless group. This is a high-energy group. That fills our cup every day," White told theScore during the Fever's season launch press conference.White added: "I've been around a lot of different teams and there's just no greater compliment than to walk into work every day and knowing that you're getting your cup filled."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785822/cropped_GettyImages-2182322345.jpg?ts=1747339824" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785822/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182322345.jpg?ts=1747339824 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785822/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182322345.jpg?ts=1747339824 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785822/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182322345.jpg?ts=1747339824 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785822/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182322345.jpg?ts=1747339824 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785822/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182322345.jpg?ts=1747339824 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ron Hoskins / National Basketball Association / Getty</figcaption></figure>Indiana president of basketball operations Kelly Krauskopf and general manager Amber Cox took a calculated approach to the offseason, surrounding their young core with veterans - specifically, ones with championship rings.DeWanna Bonner, Natasha Howard, and Sydney Colson have each won multiple WNBA titles and bring a combined 164 postseason appearances to the table. No player is as battle-tested as Bonner, the league's all-time leader in playoff minutes who trails only Diana Taurasi in points scored.Last year's entire Fever roster entered their first-round postseason series against the Sun with 19 playoff games under their belts."The main thing we were lacking last year was (playoff) experience," Clark told reporters, including theScore. "Adding really great vets like (Bonner), Syd (Colson), and Tash (Howard) and putting that experience around us of not just being in this league, but also winning."They have the championship pedigree … and I think having their voices in our locker room and on the court every single day is what's gonna really help us."Colson was part of the Las Vegas Aces' back-to-back title runs in 2022 and 2023. The 11th-year backup guard highlighted communication as a key component of those championship teams.Colson fully grasps her role as a mentor, but she's also encouraging her younger teammates to express themselves."A lot of us vets, we're not really coming in and waiting to speak," Colson <a href="https://youtu.be/YCO6w4BvD1k?si=aH8MdO1RoDhjNbfg&amp;t=22">told</a> reporters at the team's media day in April. "You know that you have wisdom and advice to give and so you want to give it. But the beautiful thing is that our younger players speak too."It's not just if you're older, you get a say. Everybody has some knowledge to give, and we all respect one another's voices."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785823/cropped_GettyImages-2213831684.jpg?ts=1747340445" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785823/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213831684.jpg?ts=1747340445 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785823/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213831684.jpg?ts=1747340445 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785823/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213831684.jpg?ts=1747340445 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785823/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213831684.jpg?ts=1747340445 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785823/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213831684.jpg?ts=1747340445 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> NBA Photos / National Basketball Association / Getty</figcaption></figure>Clark emerged as one of the WNBA's new faces last year, becoming the first rookie since Candace Parker in 2008 to earn an All-WNBA first-team nod. The Iowa standout also set a new single-game league record for assists (19) and led her peers in both dimes (8.4 per contest) and triples (122) during her Rookie of the Year campaign.Clark's debut season was a smashing success, but the All-Star guard wishes she'd been more vocal."When you're the point guard, you've gotta be the strongest voice on the floor," Clark said. "I think at times that's where I struggled last year just coming in as a rookie. You don't know when to use your voice. You didn't know when to listen to your vets. You don't know the best way to handle a lot of those situations."Like any player transitioning to the pros, Clark initially had trouble with the increased physicality and athleticism of the WNBA. Opponents often threw blitzes and double-teams at Clark in an attempt to wear her down.All the contact Clark took while cutting through the lane or finishing at the basket added up as the season progressed. She's better prepared to handle the cumulative wear and tear after dedicating much of her offseason to the weight room."You can tell looking at her frame that she has more bulk to her. She has more strength to her," WNBA color commentator Rebecca Lobo told reporters, including theScore, during ESPN's tip-off media call.Lobo added: "How much stronger is she going to feel come playoff time or nearing the end of the season because of the strength she put on and how she's able to absorb that contact a little bit better?"<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Well someone’s been in the weight room 👀😮‍💨 <a href="https://twitter.com/CaitlinClark22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaitlinClark22</a> <a href="https://t.co/yBU8p7tp31">pic.twitter.com/yBU8p7tp31</a>— Bri Lewerke (@brilewerke) <a href="https://twitter.com/brilewerke/status/1898400024234492409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The supporting cast around the pre-existing core of Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Kelsey Mitchell is stronger as well.Free-agent signings Bonner and Howard give the Fever a pair of rim-running forwards to leak out in transition with Clark.While Bonner and the departed NaLyssa Smith made a nearly identical percentage of their 3-point attempts, the former knocked down 44 more triples and is a threat from beyond the arc in pick-and-pop actions.Sophie Cunningham, acquired from the Phoenix Mercury, adds another sharpshooter to the team's dynamic attack. The 6-foot-1 wing has drilled 36.2% of her threes since entering the league in 2019 and provides some much-needed offensive pop off the bench.But Bonner, Howard, and Cunningham will likely make their most important contributions to the Fever at the other end of the court. Indiana finished second-last in defensive efficiency in each of the previous two campaigns. The Fever tallied the fewest steals and points off turnovers during the 2024 season.Bonner remains a versatile defender despite earning her lone WNBA All-Defensive second-team selection a decade ago. The same can be said of the 33-year-old Howard, who earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2019. Cunningham has been lauded for her toughness and ability to guard multiple positions. The Fever also brought in Brianna Turner - a two-time WNBA All-Defensive first-team member - on a one-year deal worth slightly more than the veteran minimum. Turner likely won't play heavy minutes, but her shot-blocking and ability to play the four or five could be an asset in certain matchups."We have the deepest team probably that I've ever been a part of," White <a href="https://youtu.be/BldbL3xTwLU?si=WpB5owipRtmaEEwc&amp;t=471">told</a> reporters at media day. "It takes everybody and it takes sacrifice. There are players who probably should be in (the) rotation that might not be at times. ..."Everybody's gonna have to sacrifice at some point for us to be as good as we can be. And so if you talk to people who've won championships, they talk about being stars in your role. They talk about playing outside of position. They talk about not being in rotation. We have players on our team that have won championships that have done just that."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785824/cropped_GettyImages-2212922787.jpg?ts=1747340713" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785824/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212922787.jpg?ts=1747340713 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785824/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212922787.jpg?ts=1747340713 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785824/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212922787.jpg?ts=1747340713 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785824/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212922787.jpg?ts=1747340713 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785824/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212922787.jpg?ts=1747340713 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jeff Haynes / National Basketball Association / Getty</figcaption></figure>Indiana's no longer flying under the radar, as Clark's rapid ascension put the Fever in position to aggressively pursue a title in just her second season.The pressure is now on White and the players to deliver on those heightened expectations."We understand the spotlight," Clark said. "We understand people expect this team to win, and that's exactly what we want to do for our fans and for this organization. ... I wouldn't want it any other way."We get to show up every single night and there's people cheering for us. You get to play the game you love. If there is that pressure ... I think that's just something you embrace. That's always what I've always tried to remind myself over the course of my career. You just rise to the occasion because you wouldn't want it any other way."

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Fever look to veterans for boost in Year 2 of Clark era

Jamal Murray had a gutsy performance Thursday with the Denver Nuggets' season on the line, battli...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> had a gutsy performance Thursday with the Denver Nuggets' season on the line, battling through an illness to lead his club to a 119-107 Game 6 win over the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.Murray tallied 25 points, eight boards, and seven assists in a game-high 42 minutes after being listed as questionable earlier in the morning."Jamal is just a different cat," Nuggets wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110279" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110279">Julian Strawther</a> told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45171218/jamal-murray-scores-25-nuggets-force-game-7-vs-thunder">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>. "He's wired differently. We know he's one of the toughest guys in the league."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Murray had treatment around the clock Thursday, including receiving intravenous fluids. The Nuggets guard said he had difficulty breathing at times during the contest.Murray set the tone early with 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting in the opening quarter. The Canadian later sparked a key 10-2 scoring run to end the third frame, converting a transition layup off a turnover and assisting on a trio of baskets from Strawther.Murray led all players with a plus-28 rating."Once the game starts, the team needs you and the adrenaline kicks in," Murray said. "You see a couple of shots going in and you just suck it up and play through it."The series shifts back to Oklahoma City for Game 7, with the winner booking a spot in the West final against the Minnesota Timberwolves.Denver last reached the conference finals two years ago during their inaugural title run, while the Thunder are seeking their first appearance in the third round since 2016.

DENVER, CO - MAY 15: Jamal Murray (27) of the Denver Nuggets plays to the crowd afte mimicking the foul-drawing body movements of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the third quarter of the Nuggets' 119-107 win at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Thursday, May 15, 2025. The Nuggets forced a game seven in their Western Conference semifinal on Sunday at Oklahoma City.

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Nuggets praise Murray's gutsy Game 6: 'Jamal is just a different cat'

The WNBA is coming off its most successful season ever.  Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese both set l...

The WNBA is coming off its most successful season ever.Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese both set league records in their rookie campaigns, while A'ja Wilson became just the second player to unanimously win MVP.The WNBA also shattered its previous attendance and viewership records, and the buzz carried into the offseason as numerous stars found themselves on the move.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Here are six storylines to watch when the new campaign tips off Friday.<h3>Aces go all-in on Loyd</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784208/cropped_GettyImages-2213268184.jpg?ts=1746479560" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784208/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213268184.jpg?ts=1746479560 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784208/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213268184.jpg?ts=1746479560 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784208/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213268184.jpg?ts=1746479560 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784208/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213268184.jpg?ts=1746479560 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784208/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213268184.jpg?ts=1746479560 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Casterline / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Las Vegas Aces are betting that Jewell Loyd's 2024 campaign was just an anomaly. The Aces acquired the six-time All-Star in a three-team trade that sent starting guard Kelsey Plum to the Los Angeles Sparks. Loyd's scoring dropped five points from the previous season when she averaged a league-leading 24.7 points. The 31-year-old also shot a career-low 36% from the field, including a 27.4% clip from downtown.Loyd is familiar with the Aces' core, having suited up for Team USA at the 2024 Olympics alongside Wilson, Chelsea Gray, and Jackie Young. Loyd won't have to shoulder as much of the offensive load in Las Vegas, but her shot selection needs to improve for this to be a success. Loyd's athletic finishing at the rim and ability to get to the charity stripe adds another dimension to an already potent Aces offense.<h3>Plum joins childhood team</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784217/cropped_GettyImages-2199280737.jpg?ts=1746483533" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784217/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199280737.jpg?ts=1746483533 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784217/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199280737.jpg?ts=1746483533 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784217/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199280737.jpg?ts=1746483533 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784217/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199280737.jpg?ts=1746483533 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784217/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199280737.jpg?ts=1746483533 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kirby Lee / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Plum attended Sparks games while growing up in the San Diego area. Her move to L.A. is a full-circle moment and addresses many needs for a squad in desperate need of an offensive boost. Plum provides stability at the point with her shot creation, playmaking, and sound decision-making. The former No. 1 pick drilled the third-most threes (110) last season and was 10th in scoring (17.8 points per contest).While Plum mostly served as a secondary facilitator for the Aces, she's more than capable of running an offense. The Washington product has posted an assist percentage of 20% or higher in six of her seven seasons and ranks 10th among active players with a career average of four dimes. Plum's 3.44 assist-to-turnover ratio in 2018 trailed only Sue Bird.Plum can push the ball upcourt in transition, orchestrate the pick-and-roll, and create clean looks for 3-point shooters off the drive-and-kick. Rickea Jackson's off-ball cutting and Dearica Hamby's prior chemistry with Plum from their time in Las Vegas will help maximize Plum's court vision. New Sparks head coach Lynne Roberts' up-tempo offensive system has Plum eager to get going."I think the most exciting part is obviously playing in space ... Everyone's a threat," Plum told theScore during a recent media availability. "In this league, you've gotta have multiple players firing on all cylinders to be extremely effective."I definitely understand there's a transition period with any offense that you enter in any sport ... But I do know that when it clicks, it's gonna be wonderful."<h3>Mercury's new Big Three</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785211/cropped_GettyImages-2214046541.jpg?ts=1747017638" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785211/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214046541.jpg?ts=1747017638 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785211/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214046541.jpg?ts=1747017638 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785211/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214046541.jpg?ts=1747017638 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785211/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214046541.jpg?ts=1747017638 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785211/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214046541.jpg?ts=1747017638 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kate Frese / National Basketball Association / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Phoenix Mercury didn't waste much time forming a new Big Three centered around Kahleah Copper. The front office added All-WNBA first-team forwards Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally in a four-team blockbuster deal following Diana Taurasi's retirement and Brittney Griner's departure in free agency. The significant splash puts Phoenix in a position to contend now, and the club's aggressiveness wasn't lost on Copper."I want to play with great players ... I want to win," Copper told theScore. "It means everything when they're willing to do whatever to put those great pieces around me."Copper had a strong debut campaign in the desert last year, averaging a career-high 21.1 points and earning her fourth consecutive All-Star nod. She's one of the league's top scorers and will benefit from Thomas' elite passing. Sabally's 3-point shooting will draw opposing bigs away from the paint and create space in the lane for Copper to attack. The German's defensive versatility is also an asset in the club's switch-heavy scheme. All three players have grab-and-go ability in transition off a missed shot, which should help a Mercury unit that scored the fewest fast-break points last season.Phoenix boasts the top-end talent needed to win a championship, but the pressure will be immense with Copper, Thomas, and Sabally all on expiring deals. Will a lack of depth be the team's downfall once again?<h3>Bueckers' transition to pros</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785386/cropped_GettyImages-2214193570.jpg?ts=1747141445" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785386/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214193570.jpg?ts=1747141445 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785386/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214193570.jpg?ts=1747141445 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785386/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214193570.jpg?ts=1747141445 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785386/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214193570.jpg?ts=1747141445 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785386/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214193570.jpg?ts=1747141445 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Michael Gonzales / National Basketball Association / Getty</figcaption></figure>Clark changed the Indiana Fever's fortunes when they drafted her first overall a year ago. Can Paige Bueckers have a similar impact for the Dallas Wings in her rookie campaign?Bueckers will have every opportunity to leave her imprint on the game. She'll immediately slot in as starting point guard and gives the Wings their best floor general since Skylar Diggins. Bueckers' efficient three-level scoring and defensive playmaking will bolster a Dallas squad in need of help on both ends. The All-American guard even served as UConn's power forward for most of her junior year with the roster decimated by injuries. Bueckers says that experience helped her develop into a versatile defender."I can stay in there and guard fours, but it's definitely a different level of physicality and grown women strength in the fours here than the fours in college," Bueckers told theScore. "But it just adds another layer to competitiveness to make a point, that you want to prove that you can do it. So just wanting to get defensive stops and be able to guard one through five - probably not five - but we'll get there."<h3>Laney-Hamilton's absence</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784904/cropped_GettyImages-2178929317.jpg?ts=1746827139" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784904/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178929317.jpg?ts=1746827139 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784904/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178929317.jpg?ts=1746827139 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784904/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178929317.jpg?ts=1746827139 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784904/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178929317.jpg?ts=1746827139 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784904/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178929317.jpg?ts=1746827139 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> David Dow / National Basketball Association / Getty</figcaption></figure>The New York Liberty will embark on their title defense without key starter Betnijah Laney-Hamilton after they suspended her contract for the 2025 campaign. The two-time WNBA All-Defensive selection was set to miss most if not the entire season after undergoing knee surgery in March. The move opens up a roster spot and provides an additional $185,400 in cap space for a potential external move.Laney-Hamilton was often tasked with covering the opposing team's top perimeter threat. Those duties will now collectively fall on veteran floor general Natasha Cloud, second-year forward Leonie Fiebich, and ex-Chicago Sky guard Rebekah Gardner. Cloud was named to her second WNBA All-Defensive second team last season, Fiebich has the size and length to disrupt opponents, and Gardner is a multi-positional defender who registered the league's second-best steal percentage (3.3%) in her last healthy campaign.Head coach Sandy Brondello knows it won't be easy to fill Laney-Hamilton's shoes. But she expressed full confidence in the options at her disposal."Gardner is coming back from a serious injury, but she looks great. So I'm excited to see her development as the year goes on," Brondello told theScore. "But (Cloud) is one of the greatest perimeter defenders I've ever seen in the WNBA. So I'm happy that she's on the Liberty now."And then adding the other pieces with the versatility of (Breanna Stewart) and (Jonquel Jones), I'm really excited with how we can continue to grow."<h3>Rookie head coaches</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784905/cropped_GettyImages-2185145866.jpg?ts=1746827202" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784905/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185145866.jpg?ts=1746827202 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784905/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185145866.jpg?ts=1746827202 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784905/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185145866.jpg?ts=1746827202 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784905/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185145866.jpg?ts=1746827202 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784905/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185145866.jpg?ts=1746827202 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Adam Hagy / National Basketball Association / Getty</figcaption></figure>Over half the league will have a new voice leading the locker room after a flurry of offseason head coaching changes. Seven of the eight vacancies were filled by a first-time WNBA head coach, with the Fever's Stephanie White being the lone exception.The Atlanta Dream's Karl Smesko and the Sparks' Lynne Roberts are making the jump to the pros after spending nearly the last two decades coaching Division-I basketball. Both are offensive-minded with an emphasis on high-volume 3-point shooting.Chris Koclanes of the Dallas Wings specializes on the opposite end of the floor. He's previously served as Curt Miller's defensive coordinator during the latter's coaching stops with the Connecticut Sun and Sparks. Koclanes returns to the WNBA after spending the past two seasons on Lindsay Gottlieb's staff at USC.The Chicago Sky's Tyler Marsh and the Golden State Valkyries' Natalie Nakase each spent the previous three campaigns on Becky Hammon's Aces staff. Marsh and Nakase also have prior assistant coaching experience at the NBA level and have been lauded for their player development during their Las Vegas tenure.Sydney Johnson of the Washington Mystics and Rachid Meziane of the Sun round out the list of rookie head coaches. Johnson coached Princeton's men's program to an Ivy League regular-season title in 2011 and was an assistant with the Sky last season. Meziane served as head coach of the Belgium women's national team. He's spent the last 18 years plying his trade in his native France and was the 2023-24 EuroLeague Coach of the Year.

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Plum's full-circle move to Sparks among WNBA storylines to watch

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Chicco Nacion

News Editor

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