UConn head coach Dan Hurley had a message for his critics after guiding the Huskies to their sixt...

UConn head coach Dan Hurley had a message for his critics after guiding the Huskies to their sixth consecutive victory following a winless showing at last month's Maui Invitational."I'm not sure how many people - at that point in Maui - were on their stupid podcasts saying we'd be 10-3," Hurley told reporters Saturday after UConn's 78-74 win over Butler, including <a href="https://x.com/TheFieldOf68/status/1870560675770359879">The Field of 68</a>. "Not all podcasts are stupid, but some of them are. Some of them say stupid shit."The two-time defending national champions nearly fell out of the AP Top 25 poll after going 0-3 in Hawaii.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>UConn has gone 6-0 since the multi-team event, including a pair of ranked victories and a true road win at Texas.The Huskies entered Saturday's contest against the Bulldogs boasting <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>'s third-best offensive rating (124.5 points per 100 possessions). However, they've dropped to 96th in defensive rating after finishing each of the previous two campaigns as a top-10 unit.UConn's defense did just enough to hold off Butler's comeback bid. Hurley's squad tallied 11 points off turnovers and held Bulldogs leading scorer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87530" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87530">Jahmyl Telfort</a> to just seven points on 3-of-12 shooting.The 11th-ranked Huskies improved to 10-0 all time vs. Butler."It's always a thrill to come to Hinkle (Fieldhouse). It's always a thrill to play in Indiana. It's like the holy land of basketball," Hurley said, per <a href="https://www.courant.com/2024/12/21/no-11-uconn-mens-basketball-holds-on-for-sixth-straight-victory-78-74-in-road-matchup-at-butler/">Joe Arruda of The Hartford Courant</a>. "I thought the game was very similar to last year's game, where we had to just fight for our lives to get out of here with a Big East road win."Hurley added: "We're nowhere near where we're going to be. But, while we're trying to figure ourselves out, we've just got to find a way to win games and execute and have poise down the stretch."

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 14: ead coach Dan Hurley of the Connecticut Huskies reacts against the Gonzaga Bulldogs at Madison Square Garden on December 14, 2024 in New York City.

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UConn's Hurley fires back after 6th straight win: Some say 'stupid shit'

The NBA announced Saturday it fined Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla $35,000 for "aggressiv...

The NBA announced Saturday it fined Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla $35,000 for "aggressively pursuing and directing inappropriate language" toward a referee.The incident occurred Thursday following the Celtics' 117-108 defeat to the Chicago Bulls.Mazzulla approached midcourt after the final buzzer and had some words for referee Justin Van Duyne, who had assessed Mazzulla a technical foul in the fourth quarter.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 36-year-old needed to be held back by his coaching staff and was subsequently escorted to the locker room.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Joe Mazzulla was heated at a ref at the end of the Celtics game <a href="https://t.co/HGEb7SBCnV">pic.twitter.com/HGEb7SBCnV</a>— Steph Noh (@StephNoh) <a href="https://twitter.com/StephNoh/status/1869938467796353409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Mazzulla jokingly said postgame he only wanted to wish the official a Merry Christmas.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Joe Mazzulla explains why he was trying to get to the referee after the game: “Just trying to wish them a Merry Christmas, happy holidays” 😭😭😭 <a href="https://t.co/iHsjuBNz2k">pic.twitter.com/iHsjuBNz2k</a>— Savage (@SavageSports_) <a href="https://twitter.com/SavageSports_/status/1869944377923240279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Van Duyne also gave a tech to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> in the fourth quarter. The Celtics star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3165134" href="https://thescore.com/news/3165134">said</a> it was "bullshit" that an official threatened him with a technical foul before ultimately giving it.

Boston, MA - December 19: Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla reacts after a technical foul is called on him in the fourth quarter.

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Celtics' Mazzulla fined $35K for postgame outburst at ref

The San Antonio Spurs are monitoring De'Aaron Fox's availability amid his uncertain situation wit...

The San Antonio Spurs are monitoring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53733" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53733">De'Aaron Fox</a>'s availability amid his uncertain situation with the Sacramento Kings, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6010644/2024/12/21/deaaron-fox-kings-contract-trade-nba-spurs/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Sam Amick and Anthony Slater</a>.Fox hasn't requested a trade, but he and his agent, Rich Paul, are "reading the room in Sacramento" before making a decision, Amick and Slater report.The 27-year-old has another year left on his contract but declined a three-year, $165-million extension over the summer.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Paul reportedly met with the Kings' front office in Sacramento last Thursday to discuss the club's plans going forward.Fox is making a strong push for his second career All-Star nod, averaging 26.2 points, 6.1 assists, five boards, and 1.7 steals across 28 appearances. His 60-point performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves in November remains the league's highest single-game output this season.However, Sacramento has failed to build upon its playoff appearance in 2022-23 and currently sits 12th in the West with a 13-15 record.

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 01: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs and De'Aaron Fox #5 of the Sacramento Kings go for a rebound in the first half at Golden 1 Center on December 01, 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: Spurs eye Fox amid uncertain future with Kings

Anthony Edwards is searching for answers on the offensive end after the Minnesota Timberwolves fe...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> is searching for answers on the offensive end after the Minnesota Timberwolves fell 133-107 to the New York Knicks on Thursday night."We don't have no (offensive) identity," Edwards told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-timberwolves-new-york-knicks-karl-anthony-towns-julius-randle-tom-thibodeau/601197253">Chris Hine of The Minnesota Star Tribune</a>. "We know I'mma shoot a bunch of shots. We know (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a>'s) gonna shoot a bunch of shots. That's all we know."We don't really know anything else. It's not on the coaches at all. It's on us. We out there playing, but we got to make it easier for each other. Coaches put us in great position, too, man. We just don't do it."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Minnesota has slipped to 20th in offensive efficiency (110.8 per 100 possessions) after dealing All-Star big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> to the Knicks in the offseason.The T-Wolves' half-court offense has also regressed to 17th, posting 95.7 points per 100 possessions, according to <a href="https://cleaningtheglass.com/stats/league/context#tab-offense_halfcourt_putbacks">Cleaning the Glass</a>.Chris Finch's squad has been one of the league's more isolation-dependent teams in the Association. However, it ranks near the bottom in production with just 0.77 points per possession in such situations.Minnesota's iso-ball tendencies are allowing teams to pack the paint against the downhill drives that have become a central part of Edwards' game."I can't do nothing if there's no lanes," Edwards said. "It's not open. Every team we play did a great job of sitting in the gaps. When I get to the rim, putting four people at the rim. I'm sorry, people, there's nothing I can do with going to the hole right now."When asked for a possible solution, Edwards opted not to disclose any thoughts."They not gonna like what I say, so I'm just gonna keep my answers to myself."The T-Wolves now sit eighth in the West with a 14-12 record.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 19: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game against the New York Knicks on December 19, 2024 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Ant searches for answers on offense: T-Wolves have no identity

JuJu Watkins and USC will make the cross-country trip to Hartford for a top-10 showdown against P...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">JuJu Watkins</a> and USC will make the cross-country trip to Hartford for a top-10 showdown against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Paige Bueckers</a> and UConn.The highly anticipated prime-time tilt is part of a two-game series between the schools and features a pair of leading Wooden Award candidates.The Trojans and Huskies met in last season's Elite Eight, with the latter prevailing 80-73 to reach their 23rd Final Four.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Watkins and Bueckers remain at the center of their respective school's national championship hopes. Saturday's blockbuster affair will serve as a litmus test for the pair of 10-1 squads.Here are the key matchups to follow when UConn and USC take the floor.<h3>JuJu vs. Paige</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761084/cropped_GettyImages-2182271882.jpg?ts=1734448554" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761084/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182271882.jpg?ts=1734448554 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761084/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182271882.jpg?ts=1734448554 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761084/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182271882.jpg?ts=1734448554 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761084/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182271882.jpg?ts=1734448554 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761084/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182271882.jpg?ts=1734448554 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Catherine Steenkeste / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Watkins is one of the NCAA's most lethal scorers, averaging 24.7 points through her first 11 appearances this season. The 6-foot-2 guard already has a 40-point showing under her belt and set a new USC record in that same contest with nine makes from downtown. Only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a> has produced more 30-point outings than Watkins through a sophomore year.Watkins' shot selection was an area of emphasis during the offseason, and it's shown on the court. The Big Ten Preseason Player of the Year is shooting 5.3% better from the field on 4.6 fewer field goals per game. She's also been a more efficient 3-point shooter on virtually the same volume of shots. The Huskies no longer have a perimeter stopper like Nika Muhl, so expect a committee approach to guarding Watkins.Don't be surprised if Bueckers takes some of the defensive responsibilities against the Trojans phenom as she did down the stretch last April. It's part of what makes the two-time All-American guard such a special player. Bueckers is always thinking one step ahead of her opponents, which allows her to force turnovers and spark UConn's transition attack.But you don't earn the nickname "Paige Buckets" without lighting up the scoreboard. Bueckers can shoot off movement, post up opposing guards, and finish through contact in the paint, and she has consistently been among the nation's leaders in effective field-goal percentage. USC will likely turn to Watkins - a solid defender herself - to take the challenge of stifling Bueckers.<h3>Iriafen vs. Strong</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761086/cropped_GettyImages-2184072711.jpg?ts=1734449999" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761086/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184072711.jpg?ts=1734449999 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761086/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184072711.jpg?ts=1734449999 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761086/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184072711.jpg?ts=1734449999 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761086/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184072711.jpg?ts=1734449999 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761086/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184072711.jpg?ts=1734449999 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Joe Buglewicz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Many expect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97058" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97058">Kiki Iriafen</a> to follow Bueckers at second overall in next year's WNBA draft. The Stanford transfer is proving that her breakout junior season was no fluke, averaging 18.7 points, 9.2 boards, and 1.4 assists over 11 appearances. She's sixth in the NCAA in offensive rebounds (54) and attempting a career-high 6.1 free throws per contest.Iriafen operates with patience in the post, consistently draws fouls, plays with a high motor on the glass, and has the lateral mobility to defend on the perimeter. While her range has yet to extend beyond the arc, she has the ability to knock down face-up jumpers from the elbow.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163466" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163466">Sarah Strong</a> could find herself matched up against the reigning power forward of the year. Strong has made an instant impact with the Huskies, trailing only Bueckers in scoring and pacing the team in rebounds, steals, and blocks. The prized No. 1 overall recruit recently became the only UConn freshman in the past 25 years to tally at least 15 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a single game.Strong has the versatility of a modern big. The 6-foot-2 forward runs the floor in transition and isn't afraid to let it fly from distance. She can pull up in transition, shoot off the catch, and pick-and-pop to the 3-point line. Whenever opponents close out too aggressively, she's more than capable of putting the ball on the floor and driving all the way to the basket. The Huskies have found success using Strong as a playmaking hub at the elbow and in dribble-handoff actions. Her quick hands and instincts have resulted in a pair of six-steal performances."I don't know that anyone has had the offensive skill set that Sarah has since (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27502" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27502">Breanna Stewart</a>) was here," UConn head coach Geno Auriemma said following his school's win over Louisville earlier this month, according to <a href="https://www.ctinsider.com/sports/uconn-womens-basketball/article/sarah-strong-louisville-win-azzi-fudd-huskies-19952563.php?utm_medium=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=twsocialflow&amp;utm_source=insider_ct">CT Insider's Maggie Vanoni</a>.<h3>Supporting casts</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761246/cropped_GettyImages-2147046702.jpg?ts=1734532328" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761246/w220xh124_GettyImages-2147046702.jpg?ts=1734532328 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761246/w320xh180_GettyImages-2147046702.jpg?ts=1734532328 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761246/w640xh360_GettyImages-2147046702.jpg?ts=1734532328 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761246/w768xh432_GettyImages-2147046702.jpg?ts=1734532328 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761246/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2147046702.jpg?ts=1734532328 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Both schools have a dynamic one-two punch, but who'll rise to the occasion alongside the star duos?USC needed to replenish its talent after losing three starters from last year's squad. They did just that with the additions in the transfer portal and a top-ranked recruiting class featuring three McDonald's All-Americans: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163005" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163005">Kennedy Smith</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163003" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163003">Kayleigh Heckel</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163002" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163002">Avery Howell</a>.Each have shown promise in their first campaign with the Women of Troy. Smith was settling in as the Trojans' third offensive option prior to being sidelined. Heckel replaced Smith in the starting lineup, energizing Lindsay Gottlieb's squad with her pace and on-ball pressure. Meanwhile, Howell stepped into Heckel's role as the lead guard off the bench, registering 7.2 points per contest and shooting 35.7% from deep during USC's current six-game winning streak.A similar situation has played out at UConn where <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97669" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97669">Azzi Fudd</a> is back on the mend with a minor knee sprain. The former No. 1 recruit is the only player outside Bueckers and Strong averaging double digits in points, and her floor-spacing was badly missed during the Huskies' lone defeat of the campaign to Notre Dame.UConn needs more from its supporting cast, regardless if Fudd suits up Saturday. Second-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111032" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111032">Ashlynn Shade</a> gave the Huskies exactly what they were looking for during Tuesday's victory over Iowa State, draining seven triples en route to a career-high 27 points. Granted, she won't be setting a new personal best every time out, but consistent scoring from Shade would keep defenses honest and ease the offensive load on Bueckers and Strong.

PORTLAND, OREGON - APRIL 01: Paige Bueckers #5 of the Connecticut Huskies defends JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans during the second half in the Elite 8 round of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on April 01, 2024 in Portland, Oregon.

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JuJu, Paige, and more: Breaking down key matchups in USC-UConn clash

Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, and Sue Bird headline the shortlist of first-time nominees for th...

Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, and Sue Bird headline the shortlist of first-time nominees for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, ESPN's Malika Andrews announced during Thursday's edition of "NBA Today."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/malika_andrews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@malika_andrews</a> introduces the nominees for the Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025 featuring Carmelo Anthony, Sue Bird, Dwight Howard and more 👏 <a href="https://t.co/eRYxfCtSXR">pic.twitter.com/eRYxfCtSXR</a>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1869838604198969344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Anthony split most of his 19-year career between the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks, earning 10 All-Star nods, six All-NBA selections, and one scoring title.Anthony ranks 10th on the NBA's all-time scoring leaderboard. He was named to the league's 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Syracuse product holds the Knicks' single-game points record (62) and led the club to three straight playoff appearances.Anthony spent parts of eight seasons with the Nuggets before being dealt to New York in February 2011. The former No. 3 overall pick collected All-Rookie first-team honors in his debut campaign and sits fourth on the franchise's all-time scoring list.Anthony also had brief stops with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Los Angeles Lakers.Prior to the NBA, he captured Most Outstanding Player honors at the Final Four after leading Syracuse to its first and only national championship.Anthony also had a decorated international career, winning three Olympic gold medals and scoring the third-most points in U.S. men's Olympic basketball history.Howard was one of the NBA's premier rebounders and defenders in his prime. The eight-time All-Star led the league in boards on five occasions and remains the only player to win the Defensive Player of the Year award in three straight seasons.Howard is 10th on the Association's all-time list for rebounds and 13th in blocks. He enjoyed most of his success with the Orlando Magic, leading the team to a Finals appearance in 2008-09.Howard eventually captured his lone NBA title over a decade later with the Lakers.Bird played her entire career with the Seattle Storm after being taken with the No. 1 overall pick in 2002. The 13-time All-Star won four WNBA titles, becoming the only player in league history to win a championship in three different decades.Bird was also a five-time All-WNBA first-team selection and led her peers in dimes three times. She stands atop the league's all-time assists leaderboard with 3,234.Bird also won a pair of national championships with UConn and was a three-time recipient of the Nancy Lieberman Award, given annually to the top point guard in women's college hoops.

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 4: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the New York Knicks celebrates scoring a 3 point shot in an NBA basketball game against the Sacramento Kings on December 4, 2016 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Knicks won 106-98. 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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Melo headlines 1st-time Naismith HOF nominees

Cleveland Cavaliers wing Isaac Okoro will miss at least two weeks with a right shoulder acromiocl...

Cleveland Cavaliers wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93865" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93865">Isaac Okoro</a> will miss at least two weeks with a right shoulder acromioclavicular joint sprain, the team announced Thursday.Okoro was injured in the third quarter of Monday's blowout win over the Brooklyn Nets.An MRI taken Wednesday confirmed the injury.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Okoro is averaging 6.6 points and shooting a career-high 49.2% from beyond the arc. He began the year coming off the bench, but moved into the starting lineup with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52639" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52639">Max Strus</a> sidelined.Okoro's been a key part of the club's ninth-ranked defense. He's tied for fourth on the team in contested shots (76) and trails only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93904" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93904">Sam Merrill</a> in charges drawn.Cleveland selected Okoro with the fifth overall pick in 2020.

BROOKLYN, NY - DECEMBER 16: Isaac Okoro #35 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on December 16, 2024 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Cavs' Okoro out at least 2 weeks with shoulder sprain

Iowa announced Wednesday it will retire Caitlin Clark's jersey Feb. 2 in a nationally televised m...

Iowa announced Wednesday it will retire <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a>'s jersey Feb. 2 in a nationally televised matchup against USC.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
To the rafters. 2.2.25<a href="https://twitter.com/CaitlinClark22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaitlinClark22</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hawkeyes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hawkeyes</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qjq1Y1VfrZ">pic.twitter.com/Qjq1Y1VfrZ</a>— Iowa Women's Basketball (@IowaWBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/IowaWBB/status/1869412333405302925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Clark's the third player in program history to receive the honor. The Indiana Fever star led the Hawkeyes to a pair of national championship game appearances in four seasons. Iowa hadn't advanced past the Final Four prior to Clark's arrival."I'm forever proud to be a Hawkeye and Iowa holds a special place in my heart that is bigger than just basketball," Clark said in a statement. "It means the world to me to receive this honor and to celebrate it with my family, friends and alumni. It will be a great feeling to look up in the rafters and see my jersey alongside those that I've admired for so long."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Clark quickly rose to stardom in Iowa City, becoming a two-time National Player of the Year and breaking Pete Maravich's long-standing mark as the all-time leading scorer in Division I history.Clark averaged 28.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.1 boards, and 1.5 steals across 139 appearances. She led the NCAA in points and assists on three occasions.The Fever selected Clark first overall earlier this year following her decorated career with the Hawkeyes.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 07: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Iowa Hawkeyes reacts in the second half during the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament National Championship game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on April 07, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Iowa retiring Caitlin Clark's jersey

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant isn't a fan of the NBA's new All-Star Game format.  "I hate it. Ab...

Phoenix Suns star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> isn't a fan of the NBA's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3162803" href="https://thescore.com/news/3162803">new</a> All-Star Game format."I hate it. Absolutely hate it," Durant told reporters Tuesday, including <a href="https://x.com/GeraldBourguet/status/1869112296284541336">Gerald Bourguet of PHNX Sports</a>. "Terrible. … We should just go back to East-West and just play a game."I think we've been trying to bring that flare back somehow with the All-Star Weekend. But I think we just keep it traditional. But we'll see how this one works. You never know. I might be wrong."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The revamped All-Star Game is now a mini-tournament featuring three eight-player rosters and the winner of the Rising Stars game.TNT analysts Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kenny Smith will each draft their roster from a pool of 24 All-Star selections. Two-time WNBA MVP Candace Parker will serve as GM for the Rising Stars champion.The tournament will consist of two semifinal matchups followed by a championship game.The first team to reach 40 points in each contest will be declared the winner.NBA commissioner Adam Silver has openly discussed a format change following last year's lackluster event in Indianapolis. However, he's also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2875687" href="https://thescore.com/news/2875687">conceded</a> that the All-Star Game may never be "truly competitive" regardless of what tweaks are made.The 2025 NBA All-Star Game will take place in San Francisco at the Chase Center.

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - DECEMBER 13: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the first half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on December 13, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Las Vegas Aces star A'ja Wilson signed a six-year contract extension with Nike in one of the most...

Las Vegas Aces star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/41039" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/41039">A'ja Wilson</a> signed a six-year contract extension with Nike in one of the most lucrative shoe deals ever for a women's basketball player, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/43023233/sources-wnba-mvp-aja-wilson-nike-reach-6-year-extension">ESPN's Shams Charania and Alexa Philippou</a>.Wilson's new deal is in the range of similar shoe contracts inked by fellow Nike athletes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">JuJu Watkins</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55066" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55066">Sabrina Ionescu</a>, adds Charania and Philippou.Nike will release Wilson's first signature shoe - the A'One - in spring 2025.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The two-time WNBA champ is coming off a dominant campaign, averaging 26.9 points, 11.9 boards, 2.6 blocks, and 1.8 steals across 38 appearances. Wilson became the fourth player in league history to win three MVPs and the first since Cynthia Cooper in 1997 to win the award unanimously.

LAS VEGAS, NV - JUNE 15: A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces celebrates during the game against the New York Liberty on June 15, 2024 at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Report: Aces' Wilson signs lucrative 6-year extension with Nike

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr says he's "embarrassed" he lashed out at referee Bill...

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr says he's "embarrassed" he lashed out at referee Bill Kennedy after a late foul by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> led to the game-winning free throws for the Houston Rockets in Wednesday's NBA Cup quarterfinal."I feel lousy I said what I said because (Bill Kennedy) doesn't deserve that," Kerr told reporters Saturday, per <a href="https://x.com/DannyEmerman/status/1868039203789160654">Danny Emerman of the Bay Area News Group</a>.Kerr <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3157406" href="https://thescore.com/news/3157406">called</a> the loose-ball foul "unconscionable" and said an elementary school referee wouldn't have made the same decision.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>While Kerr's opinion of the call hasn't changed, the former NBA Coach of the Year said he could've handled the situation better."I feel terrible. I'm embarrassed by it," Kerr said, according to <a href="https://x.com/DannyEmerman/status/1868039206477746473">Emerman</a>. "Sometimes with these games, the emotion kicks in. You say things you regret. … Bill Kennedy is a great referee, been in this league a long time. I feel good when I walk into an arena and see Bill."Kerr said he's heard from the league about his postgame criticism of the officiating. However, as of Saturday evening, the NBA hasn't fined him.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 27: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors calls a time out during the second half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Chase Center on November 27, 2024 in San Francisco, California.

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Bronny James put on a show in his first G League road game.  The 6-foot-2 guard went off for 30 p...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121726" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121726">Bronny James</a> put on a show in his first G League road game.The 6-foot-2 guard went off for 30 points on 13-of-23 shooting as the South Bay Lakers fell 106-100 to the Valley Suns on Thursday. He also added three boards, two assists, one steal, and one block in 25 minutes of action.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A career-high night for Bronny James! The <a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Lakers</a> draftee made his road debut, scoring a game-high 30 points on 57% shooting. Bronny, coming off a previous career-high of 16 points, is now averaging 14 PPG, 3.5 RPG, and 2.5 APG. 👏🙌 <a href="https://t.co/5QnpeEZQTp">pic.twitter.com/5QnpeEZQTp</a>— NBA G League (@nbagleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/nbagleague/status/1867428953654280560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>James' three previous appearances for South Bay were all at home. He entered Thursday's contest averaging 8.7 points, three boards, and 2.7 assists in the G League.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Los Angeles Lakers selected James with the No. 55 overall pick in this year's draft and subsequently signed him to a four-year, $7.9-million contract.James has been splitting time with the Lakers and their G League affiliate.

EL SEGUNDO, CA - DECEMBER 07: Bronny James #9 of the South Bay Lakers handles the ball during the game against the San Diego Clippers on December 07, 2024 at UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Bronny drops career-high 30 in 1st G League road game

Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl checked in early against the Miami Heat after being pulled fr...

Toronto Raptors center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37800" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37800">Jakob Poeltl</a> checked in early against the Miami Heat after being pulled from the starting lineup moments before Thursday's contest due to back spasms.Poeltl was officially listed as doubtful by the team and appeared to be a late scratch, according to <a href="https://x.com/JLew1050/status/1867368965111988227">TSN's Josh Lewenberg</a>.Poeltl finished with 16 points, four boards, two assists, two steals, and one block in 27 minutes of action. However, it wasn't enough as the Raptors fell 114-104.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 7-footer is having a strong campaign as the Raptors' starting center. He's averaging 15.9 points, 11.6 boards, 2.8 assists, and 1.3 blocks across 24 appearances.Toronto is already without key starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93852" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93852">Immanuel Quickley</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62057" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62057">Bruno Fernando</a> played the first two minutes of Thursday's affair and would've been in line for extended minutes if Poeltl was unable to go.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 09: Jakob Poeltl #19 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles up court during the first half f a game against the LA Clippers at Intuit Dome on November 09, 2024 in Inglewood, 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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Raptors' Poeltl pulled from starting lineup vs. Heat, checks in moments later

The NBA season is more than one-quarter of the way done, and it's becoming clearer which teams ar...

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Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes left Monday's 113-108 loss to the New York Knicks in the t...

Toronto Raptors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> left Monday's 113-108 loss to the New York Knicks in the third quarter and did not return. The 23-year-old sustained a right ankle sprain, the team announced, per <a href="https://x.com/JosephCasciaro/status/1866309042689266047">theScore's Joseph Casciaro</a>.Barnes was hurt midway through the third quarter after landing awkwardly on Karl-Anthony Towns' foot. He remained on the floor for several moments before hopping on one foot to the locker room.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Scottie Barnes left the game with an apparent foot injury. Hope everything is alright 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/wFOvqOURWL">pic.twitter.com/wFOvqOURWL</a>— BALLIN HQ (@BallinHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/BallinHQ/status/1866305805168865377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Florida State product received X-rays on the injured ankle, which came back negative, and <a href="https://x.com/JosephCasciaro/status/1866320146568302610">will be re-evaluated</a> Tuesday.Barnes had 15 points, five rebounds, and three dimes at the time of his departure.He missed 11 games earlier this season with a right orbital fracture, during which time the Raptors went 2-9.Barnes has been productive when healthy, averaging 21 points, 8.7 boards, 7.8 assists, and 1.4 steals across 13 appearances.The Raptors fall to 7-18 with the defeat. They'll take on the Miami Heat on Thursday.

TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 9: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors reacts during first half of their NBA game against the New York Knicks at Scotiabank Arena on December 9, 2024 in Toronto, Canada.

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San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul surpassed Jason Kidd for the second-most assists in NBA histor...

San Antonio Spurs guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> surpassed Jason Kidd for the second-most assists in NBA history during Sunday's 121-116 win over the New Orleans Pelicans.Paul got the milestone dime (12,092) on an inbound pass to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> midway through the second quarter.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1️⃣2️⃣,0️⃣9️⃣2️⃣ <a href="https://t.co/KL1qxG1q6R">pic.twitter.com/KL1qxG1q6R</a>— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) <a href="https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1865923305162621423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The 39-year-old tallied six points, 10 assists, six boards, and two steals to help the Spurs snap a three-game skid.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>NBA assist leaderboard<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Assists</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>John Stockton</td>
<td>15806</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Chris Paul</td>
<td>12099</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Jason Kidd</td>
<td>12091</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>11219</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Steve Nash</td>
<td>10335</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The majority of Paul's career assists came as a member of the Pelicans and Los Angeles Clippers. He remains the all-time leader in assists for both franchises.Paul has led the NBA in assists on five different occasions.The Spurs later presented Paul with a framed keepsake featuring all the teammates he's assisted over his storied career.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congrats <a href="https://twitter.com/CP3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CP3</a> on an incredible achievement 👏 <a href="https://t.co/8On7ZcvGUp">pic.twitter.com/8On7ZcvGUp</a>— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) <a href="https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1865972317349720168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Paul remains one of the league's top facilitators in Year 20. The 12-time All-Star was sixth in the Association in assists (8.5 per game) entering Sunday's matchup. His 41% assist percentage was the NBA's seventh-best mark.Paul signed a one-year, $10.5-million contract with the Spurs during the offseason.

SAN ANTONIO, TX - DECEMBER 8: Chris Paul #3 of the San Antonio Spurs handles the ball during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on December 8, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Nikola Jokic's career-high 56 points wasn't enough as the Denver Nuggets fell to the league-worst...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>'s career-high 56 points wasn't enough as the Denver Nuggets fell to the league-worst Washington Wizards, 122-113.The Wizards went winless in November and entered Saturday's contest on a franchise-record 16-game losing streak.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60514" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60514">Jordan Poole</a> led the way for Washington with 39 points, eight assists, and five boards in 40 minutes of action.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Wizards made 16 triples - including nine from Poole - and limited the Nuggets to 5-of-24 shooting from deep."We have a lot of issues, mainly on the defensive end of the floor," Nuggets head coach Mike Malone told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-nuggets-nikola-jokic-career-high-scoring-8aa86a8ad432a699b2cbbeb05f73b6da">Noah Trister of The Associated Press.</a>"I'm doing a really poor job with this team," Malone added. "For us to be 11-10 at this point and losing to a team that last five games is averaging a hundred points a game and they put up 122 on us - I'm embarrassed by that."Meanwhile, Jokic did everything he could in the absence of fellow starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a>.The three-time MVP shot 22-of-38 from the field and made 9-of-13 attempts from the charity stripe to go along with 16 rebounds and eight assists.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jokić posted HISTORIC numbers for the Nuggets! 🃏 56 PTS (career-high) 🃏 16 REB 🃏 8 AST 🃏 3 3PM He's the first player in NBA history to total 55+ PTS, 15+ REB, 5+ AST and 3+ 3PM in a single game. <a href="https://t.co/7L0lM1e5bJ">pic.twitter.com/7L0lM1e5bJ</a>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1865592087741165655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>David Thompson's 73-point effort against the Detroit Pistons in 1978 is the only higher single-game output in Nuggets history.Jokic joined Luka Doncic and Elgin Baylor as the only players in NBA history to tally at least 56 points, 15 boards, and eight assists in a regular-season game, according to <a href="https://x.com/MikeVorkunov/status/1865585724763800012">The Athletic's Mike Vorkunov</a>.Still, Jokic took some of the blame for Saturday's result, despite a historic individual performance."I think today and the last couple games were really bad for us," Jokic said. "We are really going in the wrong direction. I think it's everybody's fault."

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 7: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets looks to pass the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards on December 7, 2024 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George is hoping to return within one week, the star told reporte...

Philadelphia 76ers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> is hoping to return within one week, the star told reporters Tuesday, including <a href="https://x.com/PompeyOnSixers/status/1861473900552466872">Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer</a>.George exited last week's contest against the Memphis Grizzlies after sustaining a bone bruise in his left knee. He missed the 76ers' previous two games and has already been ruled out for Wednesday's clash versus the Houston Rockets.George will be sidelined for at least two more contests if he doesn't play over the next week.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Philadelphia's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/160" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/160">Kyle Lowry</a> are also unavailable for Wednesday's tilt, adds <a href="https://x.com/PompeyOnSixers/status/1861470484619035110">Pompey</a>.George acknowledged how difficult it's been being unable to help his teammates as they navigate injuries to himself and Embiid."You look at the guys that came here for that reason of playing alongside myself, Joel, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese (Maxey</a>). And we're asking them to do a lot in the absence of us. It's tough for me to watch that," George told reporters, according to <a href="https://x.com/PompeyOnSixers/status/1861495125861413190">Pompey</a>."Guys are putting everything on the line. Some of them are getting banged up. So that's a challenging part from a personal point ... That's why I'm working extremely hard to try and come back.The Sixers sit second-last in the Association with a 3-13 record.

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - NOVEMBER 20: Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on November 20, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee.

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Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone blasted his team's effort and demanded more leadership f...

Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone blasted his team's effort and demanded more leadership from his starters after Monday's 145-118 blowout loss at home to the New York Knicks."Well, yeah, I mean like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a>, he's vocal - but we need more than Russell Westbrook," Malone told reporters, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/42617295/michael-malone-calls-nuggets-effort-blowout-loss-knicks">ESPN</a>. "I need <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>, I need <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray,</a> I need guys that have been here in that starting lineup to be vocal. And you know tonight we got embarrassed."He continued: "We're 16 games in and we're talking about effort, we're talking about toughness, we're talking about physicality. ... And regardless of who's in, who's out, who do we want to be as a team? So, yeah, leadership would be great, toughness would be great, physicality would be great, playing like you actually care would be great, and we didn't do that tonight."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Murray</a> says some of his teammates stayed back in Los Angeles after Saturday's victory over the Lakers, which might have contributed to their lackluster showing at Ball Arena."It's a long season. Guys have lives outside of basketball," the Nuggets star told reporters, per <a href="https://x.com/HarrisonWind/status/1861271774496788500">DNVR Sports' Harrison Wind</a>. "We just beat L.A. in L.A. We've got some guys who live in L.A., so stayed in L.A. ... I don't think the focus was there from everybody, and that's what happens when you don't have the focus."It's not on coach (Malone). It's not on what plays we're running. It's not on anybody else but the guys that are out there on the court."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We all stayed in LA BTW! and had a great win. Not excluding myself guys we didn’t play together tonight✌🏽— Jamal Murray (@BeMore27) <a href="https://twitter.com/BeMore27/status/1861310899413537275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>New York led by as many as 30 points in a dominant offensive performance. The Knicks tallied 62 points in the paint, 17 second-chance points, and 24 fast-break points.They knocked down 19 triples and shot a scorching 60.9% from the field. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a> led the balanced attack with a career-high 40 points, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> added 30 points and 15 boards.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> also dished out 17 of New York's 45 dimes to help tie a single-game franchise record.The Knicks' 145-point outburst was the most surrendered by the Nuggets in regulation at home since April 1991.

DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 02: Head coach Michael Malone directs his team in the second half against the Utah Jazz at Ball Arena on November 2, 2024, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

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Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis made his first appearance of the season Monday in his te...

Boston Celtics center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a> made his first appearance of the season Monday in his team's 126-94 rout of the Los Angeles Clippers.The 29-year-old started and played 23 minutes in the victory. He shot 6-of-12 from the floor but just 1-of-6 from deep, finishing with 16 points, six rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and a steal.He scored his first bucket just a minute into the contest, utilizing a pick-and-pop with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> to open the scoring for Boston with his only trey on the night.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Didn't take long for Porzingis to get on the scoreboard 🔥 LAC-BOS underway on NBA League Pass! 📲 <a href="https://t.co/D0NtZ2fVVi">https://t.co/D0NtZ2fVVi</a> <a href="https://t.co/W9dlS970T2">pic.twitter.com/W9dlS970T2</a>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1861209595848315059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Porzingis had yet to suit up after undergoing offseason foot surgery."I felt great," Porzingis said of his debut, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/42615385/celtics-celebrate-kristaps-porzingis-return-dominant-win">ESPN's Tim Bontemps</a>. "It was a long rehab, and I was itching to get back out there with this team after winning a championship. It was a good beginning, good first game back."The 7-foot-2 Latvian sustained a torn retinaculum and dislocated posterior tibialis tendon in Game 2 of last season's NBA Finals. He missed Games 3 and 4 before returning for the clincher.Boston acquired Porzingis from the Washington Wizards in a three-team deal involving fan favorite <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24740">Marcus Smart</a> in June 2023. The Celtics subsequently inked Porzingis to a two-year, $60-million extension.Porzingis had a strong debut campaign in Beantown, averaging 20.1 points, 7.2 boards, two assists, and 1.9 blocks across 57 appearances.The Celtics were without fellow centers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12">Al Horford</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30792" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30792">Luke Kornet</a> due to illness and hamstring tightness, respectively.

BOSTON, MA - NOVEMBER 16: Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics smiles as he warms up before the game between the Boston Celtics and the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden on November 16, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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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Porzingis makes season debut in Celtics' blowout win over Clippers

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