Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard sustained a torn left Achilles tendon during the club's Game ...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> sustained a torn left Achilles tendon during the club's Game 4 loss to the Indiana Pacers, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Lillard underwent an MRI on Monday that confirmed the season-ending injury.</p><p>The injury <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3276132" href="https://thescore.com/news/3276132">occurred</a> midway through the first quarter as he attempted to secure an offensive rebound. Lillard immediately grabbed his left leg after falling to the ground and remained on the floor until a stoppage in play. The nine-time All-Star needed to be assisted off the court as he couldn't put any weight on his left foot.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Lillard returned in Game 2 after missing nearly one month of action due to deep vein thrombosis in his right calf.</p><p>The 34-year-old struggled in his brief return to the lineup, averaging just seven points on 22.2% shooting across three playoff appearances.</p><p>"A lot of people don't see what Dame had to deal with, but I've been around him every single day and it's hard," Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> told reporters postgame Sunday, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6316705/2025/04/27/damian-lillard-out-game-4-bucks-pacers/">Eric Nehm, Sam Amick, and Tobias Bass of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>"It's hard being in his position, but he's one of the toughest, mentally toughest guys I've ever been around and that's why he is who he is, and I think he's going to overcome every obstacle that's going to be in front of him. Everybody's going to be there for him. No matter what the obstacle is for him, he's going to overcome and we're going to help him overcome."</p><p>Lillard tallied 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, 4.7 boards, and 1.2 steals over 58 appearances this season.</p><p>He's under contract through next season and has a $58.5-million player option for 2026-27.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 27: Damian Lillard #0 of the Milwaukee Bucks is helped off the court after an apparent injury during the first quarter in Game Four of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at Fiserv Forum on April 27, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Lillard diagnosed with torn Achilles

Andrej Stojakovic, son of former Sacramento Kings star Peja Stojakovic, will suit up for Illinois...

<p>Andrej Stojakovic, son of former Sacramento Kings star Peja Stojakovic, will suit up for Illinois next season, he announced Monday on social media.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/KcTNfHTHcq">pic.twitter.com/KcTNfHTHcq</a></p>— Andrej Stojaković (@AndrejSto2) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndrejSto2/status/1916900508884996128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Andrej Stojakovic committed to the Fighting Illini over North Carolina and Stanford.</p><p>The 6-foot-7 wing is fresh off a breakout sophomore year with California, averaging 17.9 points, 4.7 boards, 1.8 assists, and 1.2 blocks over 29 appearances. He was named to the All-ACC Tournament first team after dropping 33 points per contest across a pair of games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Stojakovic entered the portal after the 2024-25 campaign.</p><p>"I think the main reasons were pretty clear to my inner circle as a basketball fit," Stojakovic told <a href="https://www.espn.com/espngamer/ncb/story/_/id/44903078/andrej-stojakovic-son-peja-tops-portal-picks-illini">ESPN's Jeff Borzello and Jonathan Givony</a>. "Coach (Brad) Underwood has been very aggressive recruiting me from the start and constantly reiterating how much I'm wanted and needed as a basketball player there.</p><p>"They really believe I'm the missing piece to what they think is a national championship team."</p><p>Stojakovic was a top-25 recruit and McDonald's All-American coming out of high school. He spent his freshman year at Stanford before making the move to Cal.</p><p>Stojakovic joins a Fighting Illini program that has a strong track record with bigger playmakers and international prospects. He's projected to have a major role this upcoming season with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121809" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121809">Kasparas Jakucionis</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121811" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121811">Will Riley</a> heading to the NBA.</p><p>Illinois lost to Kentucky in the second round of this year's NCAA Tournament.</p>

CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 15: Andrej Stojakovic #2 of the California Golden Bears attempts a three-point shot against the North Carolina Tar Heelsduring the game at the Dean E. Smith Center on January 15, 2025 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

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Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry was voted the 2024-25 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Yea...

<p>Golden State Warriors guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> was voted the 2024-25 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year, the league announced Monday.</p><p>He's the first Warriors player to win the annual award, which recognizes selfless play, leadership on and off the court, and commitment to their team.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Your 2024-25 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year,<br>Stephen Curry 🤝 <a href="https://t.co/VWyhDloZRw">pic.twitter.com/VWyhDloZRw</a></p>— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) <a href="https://twitter.com/warriors/status/1916932553170407479?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24302" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24302">Steven Adams</a> of the Houston Rockets and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> of the New York Knicks came second and third, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Twelve players - six from each conference - are nominated by a panel of NBA executives, and the winner is chosen by their peers.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>1st-place Votes</th>
<th>Total Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Curry</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>66</td>
<td>1257</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steven Adams</td>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>46</td>
<td>1237</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>36</td>
<td>925</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DeAndre Jordan</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>897</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nicolas Batum</td>
<td>Clippers</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>868</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Association also donates $25,000 to a charity of the recipient's choice.</p><p>Curry averaged 24.5 points, six assists, and 4.4 boards across 70 regular-season appearances this season. He also shot a league-best 93.3% from the charity stripe.</p>

Stephen Curry (30) claps and urges on the crowd in the second half as the Golden State Warriors defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 121-116 in the NBA play-in game at Chase Center in San Francisco, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.

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Curry named Teammate of the Year

Ex-Auburn wing Chad Baker-Mazara committed to USC, he announced Monday on social media.          ...

<p>Ex-Auburn wing Chad Baker-Mazara committed to USC, he announced Monday on social media.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DI_mBIBxVSG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DI_mBIBxVSG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DI_mBIBxVSG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Chad Baker-Mazara (@cbuckets27)</a></p>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Baker-Mazara spent the last two seasons with the Tigers. The 25-year-old played a key role on last season's Final Four squad, averaging 12.3 points and shooting 38.1% from distance across 38 appearances.</p><p>His strong performance earned Baker-Mazara All-SEC third-team honors and a finalist nod for the Julius Erving Award, which annually recognizes the top small forward in college basketball.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He also had stints with Duquesne, San Diego State, and Northwest Florida State. He was the Mountain West Conference's Sixth Man of the Year in 2022.</p><p>Baker-Mazara is the Trojans' seventh transfer addition this offseason.</p><p>A few hours after his post, Cal State Northridge transfer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/111433" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/111433">Keonte Jones</a> announced he was no longer joining the Trojans.</p><p>"After much thought, I have decided to decommit from the University of Southern California. Thank you to USC for the opportunity," Jones <a href="https://x.com/Jelly_Keonte/status/1916908983052603505">wrote</a> on social media.</p><p>USC went 17-18 in its first season under Eric Musselman and missed its second consecutive NCAA Tournament.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS - APRIL 05: Chad Baker-Mazara #10 of the Auburn Tigers reacts during the first half in the Final Four game of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament against the Florida Gators at the Alamodome on April 05, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas.

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Cleveland Cavaliers star Darius Garland missed Saturday's 124-87 Game 3 win over the Miami Heat d...

<p>Cleveland Cavaliers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> missed Saturday's 124-87 Game 3 win over the Miami Heat due to a sprained left toe.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93904" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93904">Sam Merrill</a> took Garland's spot in the starting lineup and went scoreless in 19 minutes of action.</p><p>It's unclear when Garland suffered the injury, but he missed a pair of regular-season contests down the stretch with the same ailment.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cleveland went 4-3 this season with Garland sidelined.</p><p>Garland averaged 24 points and seven assists in the first two games of the series. The Cavs also scored 3.7 more points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor.</p><p>Garland was 12th in the Association in assists (6.7 per contest) during the regular season.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 23: Darius Garland #10 of the Cleveland Cavaliers brings the ball up court during the second half of game two of the first round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs against the Miami Heat at Rocket Arena on April 23, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Heat 121-112.

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Gary Trent Jr. made an instant impact in his first start of the series, dropping a playoff career...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60234" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60234">Gary Trent Jr.</a> made an instant impact in his first start of the series, dropping a playoff career-high 37 points in the Milwaukee Bucks' 117-101 Game 3 win over the Indiana Pacers.</p><p>The Bucks guard did most of his damage from downtown, knocking down nine threes to tie Ray Allen's single-game franchise playoff record.</p><p>"It's really a blessing, a testament to my hard work and everything that I put into it," Trent told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44860278/gary-trent-jr-ties-franchise-mark-9-3s-lift-bucks">ESPN's Jamal Collier</a>. "A big fan of Ray Allen as a kid, I watched him accomplish great things as a Buck, as a Celtic, just followed his whole career, the way he shot the basketball.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"So, to be in that group, your name near him as a shooter, it's a great thing for me. It's a testament to just keep going and keep going."</p><p>Milwaukee's starters have struggled against the Pacers, except for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>. The Greek Freak was the only Bucks player in the first five to tally double digits in scoring in Game 1.</p><p>Antetokounmpo had more support in the next contest, but it wasn't enough to avoid going down 0-2 in the series.</p><p>Trent's offensive outburst was needed in Game 3. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/300" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a> went scoreless and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> is still working his way back into game condition after missing one month due to a blood clot. The Duke product scored 18 points in the third quarter as the Bucks outscored the Pacers 39-18 in the frame and erased a 10-point halftime deficit.</p><p>Trent and Antetokounmpo are the first pair of Bucks players to each score at least 35 points in a postseason contest, per ESPN Research.</p><p>"It's almost like a fulfilling feeling," Trent said. "I put in a lot of work, a lot of time, a lot of hours. I sacrifice a lot of things going into this. But again, the cream always rises to the top and continue to keep working and it should showcase itself when the opportunity presents itself."</p><p>Milwaukee can tie the series at two games apiece with a win Sunday evening in Game 4.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 25: Gary Trent Jr. #5 of the Milwaukee Bucks makes a three point shot against the Indiana Pacers in the second half of game three of the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs at Fiserv Forum on April 25, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown was critical of the referees for continuing to allow the Orlando...

<p>Boston Celtics star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> was critical of the referees for continuing to allow the Orlando Magic to play an overly physical brand of basketball.</p><p>"There might be a fight break out or something because it's starting to feel like it's not even basketball, and the refs are not controlling their environment," Brown told reporters, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44861538/after-game-3-loss-celtics-again-question-magic-physical-play">ESPN's Baxter Holmes</a>, after the Celtics' 95-93 Game 3 loss Friday night to the Magic.</p><p>"So it is what it is. If you want to fight it out, we can do that. We can fight to see who goes to the second round."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Orlando has been assessed three flagrant-1 fouls in as many games. The latest incident occurred early in the second quarter of Game 3 when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93882" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93882">Cole Anthony</a> fouled Brown hard as he attempted to go up for a basket.</p><p>Brown immediately grabbed his left hand as he writhed on the floor in pain. The reigning Finals MVP stayed in the contest but revealed postgame that he dislocated his left index finger on the play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DwIXFRJDvAM?si=pFEdLxUSaBc1IeFJ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>"They got away with a lot," Brown said. "So if you get away with it, I would do it too. That definitely affected us, but we'll be ready for Game 4."</p><p>The series resumes at 7 p.m. ET Sunday with the Celtics up 2-1.</p>

ORLANDO, FL - APRIL 25: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics is defended by Cole Anthony #50 of the Orlando Magic during the first half in Game 3 of the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at the Kia Center on April 25, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. The Magic defeated the Celtics 95 to 93.

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Brown slams Magic's physical play: 'It's not even basketball'

The Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to a multi-year contract extension with general manager Jon Horst...

<p>The Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to a multi-year contract extension with general manager Jon Horst, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44834863/bucks-gm-jon-horst-reach-extension-2027-28">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The two sides reportedly reached a new deal late Wednesday before Horst's contract expired, Charania added.</p><p>Milwaukee has made the playoffs in each of Horst's eight seasons as general manager. Their .647 win percentage during that span is the second-best mark in the NBA, per ESPN Research.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Horst was named Executive of the Year in 2019 and was the architect of the team's 2021 championship squad.</p><p>Horst began his executive career as the Detroit Pistons' manager of basketball operations in August 2007. He then joined the Bucks' organization less than a year later to become its director of basketball operations.</p><p>Horst was promoted to general manager in June 2017 after John Hammond left to join the Orlando Magic.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WI - JANUARY 27: Jon Horst speaks to the media during an introductory press conference of Doc Rivers as the new head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks on January 27, 2024, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, WI.

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Report: Bucks sign GM Horst to multi-year extension

Kenny Atkinson spoke glowingly of Donovan Mitchell after his clutch play helped the Cleveland Cav...

<p>Kenny Atkinson spoke glowingly of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a> after his clutch play helped the Cleveland Cavaliers hold off the Miami Heat's comeback bid Wednesday night.</p><p>"I feel like when we need him he gives it, he knows the moment," the Cavs head coach told reporters, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44827813/cavs-hold-heat-thanks-donovan-mitchell-big-finish">ESPN's Brian Windhorst</a>, after the Cavs' 121-112 Game 2 win. "He doesn't do it when we're up 10 or 15 (points). He'll wait and wait.</p><p>"I think that's the maturity level he's gotten to where he is in his career, understanding what the situation is, what the moment is."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Mitchell took over after the Heat cut a 19-point lead to just two with 4:25 remaining. The six-time All-Star scored 10 of the Cavs' next 12 points, including back-to-back triples to give Cleveland a seven-point advantage with 1:52 to go.</p><p>Mitchell finished with 30 points - including 7-of-10 shooting from deep - six boards, six assists, and one steal in 36 minutes. He joins LeBron James as the only players in franchise history to have multiple playoff games with at least 30 points, five rebounds, five assists, and five threes.</p><p>"I've worked really hard to be in those moments," Mitchell said. "You're fatigued or whatever, but you put your head down and get to the spots."</p><p>The first-round series now shifts to Miami on Saturday with Cleveland up 2-0.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 23: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates during Round One Game Two of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Miami Heat on April 23, 2025 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 2025 NBAE

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Cavs' Atkinson praises Mitchell's clutch play: 'He knows the moment'

The Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors combined for six technical fouls, one flagrant-1 fo...

<p>The Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors combined for six technical fouls, one flagrant-1 foul, and a few skirmishes in Game 2 of their opening-round series, and head coach Ime Udoka believes that level of intensity is right up his team's alley.</p><p>"If it gets chippy, we've seen over the last two years that's worked in our favor for the most part, gets us amped up," Udoka told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44829333/udoka-warriors-series-getting-chippy-works-rockets-favor">ESPN's Michael C. Wright</a>.</p><p>"But when you have a lead, (and you're) up 20, and things start to happen, you understand why. That's kind of the last resort by teams. You've got to keep your composure at that point and just stay calm."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tempers flared between both clubs down the stretch of Wednesday's contest.</p><p>Rockets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a> was assessed a flagrant-1 foul for elbowing Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a>, who then had some words for the young star.</p><p>Draymond was given a technical foul less than a minute later for shoving Houston center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96113" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96113">Alperen Sengun</a> from behind, and he was later at the center of attention once again, standing face-to-face with Rockets veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/25275" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/25275">Fred VanVleet</a> as they exchanged words. Players and coaches had to step in and separate Draymond and VanVleet as the conversation escalated further.</p><p>As cooler heads began to prevail, Houston forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102780" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102780">Tari Eason</a> earned himself a technical foul for throwing a towel at Golden State rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102818" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102818">Pat Spencer</a>.</p><p>Udoka found that the series of chippy events was a good teaching moment for his young squad.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MCPgL_lWUGM?si=f5tO2toUYRubTfHw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>"It's good for us," Udoka said. "It's who we kind of are, minus the towel throw. You'd like to keep your composure at that point. I told Tari that. He's not even in the game, so he shouldn't be over there.</p><p>"But it's what we've built ourselves on, the identity, and everybody's bought into that. It makes us who we are. So, I think our guys all kind of thrive on that. We've just got to keep our composure, especially when you've got a lead."</p><p>The series now shifts to San Francisco tied at one game apiece.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 23: Head coach Ime Udoka of the Houston Rockets reacts in the first half against the Golden State Warriors in Game Two of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center on April 23, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Udoka: Chippy series works in Rockets' favor

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton got into a heated exchange with Damian Lillard late in Tues...

<p>Indiana Pacers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> got into a heated exchange with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> late in Tuesday's 123-115 Game 2 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OwfSG9YiUd4?si=g0Bb7dpJiDY4Kjqx" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>It was the second interaction between the two players in as many games, and Haliburton didn't beat around the bush when describing how the teams feel about one another.</p><p>"We don't have to sit here and act like it's any secret," Haliburton said after the Pacers took a 2-0 series lead, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44810557/animosity-continues-rise-pacers-take-2-0-lead-vs-bucks">ESPN's Stephen Holder</a>. "We don't like them, they don't like us, and that's just what it is. And I think they live for this, we live for this, so I could (not) care less. I'm out here just trying to help my team win a game."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Pacers and Bucks have been at odds for quite some time. A postgame confrontation between the two sides unfolded in December 2023 when the Pacers took the game ball from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>'s career-high 64-point night.</p><p>Indiana also won last season's NBA Cup semifinals matchup and later beat the Bucks in six games in the opening round of the playoffs.</p><p>Antetokounmpo knows there's no love lost with the Pacers, but his priority is getting the Bucks out of an 0-2 series deficit.</p><p>"I feel like there's a lot of animosity, a lot of back and forth," Antetokounmpo said. "But I try to stay away from it. I try to stay away from it as much as I can and just focus on what I've got to do to help the team win. But, shit, if you poke me, I'm right there. I'm not backing down.</p><p>"I think a lot of people know that about me, but I really don't care about what people think or what (the Pacers) think or what we think. I really don't care. My mindset right now is Game 3. We know the f-----g deal, man. I just know the deal. I know what I've got to do."</p><p>Game 3 is Friday at 8 p.m. ET in Milwaukee.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 22: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers drives to the basket during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks during Round 1 Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Haliburton: It's no secret we don't like Bucks

Rutgers star Ace Bailey is declaring for this year's NBA draft, he told ESPN's Jonathan Givony.  ...

<p>Rutgers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162648" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162648">Ace Bailey</a> is declaring for this year's NBA draft, he told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44815023/ace-bailey-declares-nba-draft-one-year-rutgers">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>.</p><p>Bailey, a projected top-3 pick, trailed only Duke phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/playerrankings/_/class/2024">ESPN 100</a> for 2024. He's the highest-ranked recruit ever to commit to the Scarlet Knights.</p><p>Bailey showcased his shotmaking and defensive potential during his lone college season, averaging 17.6 points, 7.2 boards, 1.3 blocks, and one steal across 30 appearances.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I could have done way better, but I matured this season," Bailey said. "The game slowed down for me. My IQ got higher. I got faster and way stronger. My ball-handling and shooting tightened up. Rutgers had me guarding everyone from point guards to power forwards. I learned a lot."</p><p>Bailey had at least 30 points in three Big Ten games, including a 39-point outburst versus Indiana. His 527 points on the season were the second most by a true freshman in program history.</p><p>Bailey was named to the All-Big Ten third team and the conference's All-Freshman team. The 6-foot-10 wing was one of 20 players on the Wooden Award late midseason watch list.</p><p>"I'm nowhere close to reaching my potential," Bailey said. "I'm still young, still learning, but I'm working every day. My playmaking is improving. NBA teams will get an energetic player ready to talk, lead, and put people in the right positions. I can take a good team to a better level."</p>

PISCATAWAY, NJ - FEBRUARY 01: Ace Bailey #4 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights reacts during the first half of the game against the Michigan Wolverines on February 1, 2025 at Jersey Mikes Arena in Piscataway, New Jersey. Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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Projected top-3 pick Bailey declares for draft

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick called a timeout midway through Tuesday's third quarter a...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick called a timeout midway through Tuesday's third quarter and <a href="https://x.com/MrBuckBuckNBA/status/1914889634447818984">ripped</a> into his team after it allowed the Minnesota Timberwolves to cut a 22-point lead in half.</p><p>Redick sensed momentum building for the visiting side, and the Lakers immediately responded to his outburst with a crucial 9-0 scoring run en route to a 94-85 Game 2 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3273148" href="https://thescore.com/news/3273148">victory</a>.</p><p>"Not frustration just coaching. ... Just wanted to make sure everybody was on the same page," Redick told reporters postgame about his message in the huddle, according to <a href="https://x.com/SpectrumSN/status/1914911262993215949">Spectrum SportsNet</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Redick added: "I've done that in a game a handful of times. … It's not something that I want to do. It's something I'm more than comfortable doing. I think tonight it was just more about getting that urgency button switched back on."</p><p>Lakers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> likened the way Redick handled himself to his high school coach.</p><p>"We know JJ is gonna spazz out from time to time. That's JJ," James <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1914917119893897401">said</a> after the Lakers' tied the first-round series at one game apiece. "At this point for us, obviously we need to listen to the message and not the way he's delivering it.</p><p>"For me, my high school coach my freshman year was kind of the same way. He would spazz out on us, and you have to be able to understand ... it's not how he's saying it, it's about what he's saying. I thought we responded after that."</p><p>The series now shifts to Minnesota with Game 3 set for 9:30 p.m. ET. Friday</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 22: Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick yells out to his players from the sidelines during the first quarter of an NBA playoff game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 in Los Angeles, CA.(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Redick's outburst sparks Lakers: We needed 'urgency button' back on

Arkansas guard Boogie Fland entered the transfer portal with a "do not contact" tag, a source tol...

<p>Arkansas guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/161991" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/161991">Boogie Fland</a> entered the transfer portal with a "do not contact" tag, a source told <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/1914766879211573417">CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein</a>.</p><p>Fland declared for the NBA draft earlier in April, but the former five-star recruit entered the portal to keep his options open despite having no intention of withdrawing from the draft, adds Rothstein.</p><p>The 6-foot-2 guard was the 16th overall recruit on the 2024 <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/247470/johnuel-fland">ESPN 100</a> and was projected to be a one-and-done prospect. However, he isn't a lock to be selected in the first round of this year's draft.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Fland averaged 13.5 points, 5.1 assists, 3.2 boards, and 1.5 steals across 21 appearances during his lone campaign with the Razorbacks.</p><p>He was initially expected to miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season due to a hand injury but returned for Arkansas' Sweet 16 run in the NCAA Tournament.</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 20: Boogie Fland #2 of the Arkansas Razorbacks looks on during a first-round game against the Kansas Jayhawks in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 20, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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Report: Arkansas' Fland enters transfer portal

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum is doubtful for Game 2 against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday wi...

<p>Boston Celtics star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> is doubtful for Game 2 against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday with a bone bruise in his right wrist, the team announced Tuesday. </p><p>Tatum is considered day-to-day, head coach Joe Mazzulla told reporters Tuesday, including <a href="https://x.com/ByJayKing/status/1914711320152232183">Jay King of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>The six-time All-Star sustained the injury in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 103-86 series-opening win over the Magic. Tatum landed hard on his wrist after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11367" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11367">Kentavious Caldwell-Pope</a> fouled him on a drive to the basket.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tatum remained on the floor for several minutes but stayed in the contest. Caldwell-Pope was assessed a flagrant-1 foul on the play.</p><p>Tatum finished with 17 points on 8-of-22 shooting, including a 1-of-8 mark from deep, in 40 minutes of play. He led the Celtics in points, rebounds, and assists during the regular season.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 20: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics shoots a layup in Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden on April 20, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Tatum day-to-day with bone bruise in wrist

New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau noted a "huge discrepancy in free throws" following his ...

<p>New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau noted a "huge discrepancy in free throws" following his club's 100-94 Game 2 loss versus the Detroit Pistons.</p><p>Thibodeau was specifically unhappy with the officials' treatment of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> compared to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a>.</p><p>"I don't understand how on one side you talk about direct line drives. The guy is getting fouled and it's not being called," Thibodeau told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://apnews.com/article/knicks-pistons-thibodeau-brunson-cunningham-9226b9941b19a13a24358c552658c311">Brian Mahoney of The Associated Press</a>. "And look, I don't really give a crap how they call the game, as long as it's consistent on both sides.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"So, if Cunningham is driving and there is marginal contact and he is getting to the line, then Jalen deserves to be getting to the line. It's really that simple."</p><p>Detroit had 15 more attempts from the charity stripe but was called for two more personal fouls than New York.</p><p>Cunningham and Brunson nearly had the same amount of free-throw attempts as well. The Pistons floor general went 10-of-12 from the charity stripe, while the Knicks star knocked down 9-of-11 attempts.</p><p>Brunson says he and his teammates need to adjust to how the game is being officiated rather than worry about getting a whistle in their favor.</p><p>"Regardless if fouls are being called or not called, we've got to adjust and I feel like we did that a little too late into the game," Brunson said. "And so regardless of how it's reffed, we've got to adjust and we've got to adapt to that and go on from there."</p><p>Game 3 is Thursday in Detroit at 7 p.m. ET.</p>

DALLAS, TX - NOVEMBER 27: Jalen Brunson #11 and Head Coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks talk during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on November 27, 2024 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Thibodeau: Brunson deserves same foul calls as Cade

Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue has the utmost confidence in his club, especially when...

<p>Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue has the utmost confidence in his club, especially when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> is healthy and performing at the peak of his abilities.</p><p>"This is what Kawhi lives for, trying to get to this point where he's healthy for the playoffs," Lue <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1914553412374675522">told</a> reporters following the Clippers' Game 2 win over the Denver Nuggets. "We know if we've got a healthy Kawhi, we can win any series. That just showed you tonight what he's capable of doing."</p><p>Leonard played some of his best basketball over the last month of the regular season and has carried that form into the playoffs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The two-time Finals MVP led all players with 39 points on 15-of-19 shooting Monday, including a decisive bucket that put the Clippers up three with just under a minute to go.</p><p>Leonard, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, then had a key steal and shot contest on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>'s last-second 3-point attempt to help even the opening-round series at one game apiece.</p><p>Injuries have limited Leonard throughout his tenure in L.A. The six-time All-Star battled through knee inflammation in his right knee before being shut shut down just two games into the Clippers' first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks last season.</p><p>Leonard didn't make his first appearance of the 2024-25 campaign until January as he underwent a procedure to address the lingering inflammation.</p><p>"I'm just happy that I'm able to move," Leonard said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44794659/kawhi-leonard-scores-39-points-clippers-tie-series-nuggets">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>. "That's what I'm taking pride in is just being healthy. I sat and watched these playoff games and series the past two years.</p><p>"So being able to be frontline out there, it just feels good for me no matter which way the game goes."</p><p>Game 3 is Thursday in Los Angeles at 10 p.m. ET.</p>

DENVER, CO - APRIL 21: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers dribbles the ball during Round One Game Two of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Denver Nuggets on April 21, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. 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 2025 NBAE

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Lue: Clippers can win any series with healthy Kawhi

Paige Bueckers is taking her talents to the Lone Star State this upcoming WNBA season after being...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Paige Bueckers</a> is taking her talents to the Lone Star State this upcoming WNBA season after being selected No. 1 overall by the Dallas Wings.</p><p>Bueckers won virtually every major individual award and set numerous UConn records before capping her collegiate career with a national title earlier in April.</p><p>Can Bueckers have a similar impact on the Wings as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a> did a year ago for the Indiana Fever?</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's what to expect from the Huskies star at the next level.</p><h3>Efficient scorer</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780442/cropped_GettyImages-2208353983.jpg?ts=1744582594" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780442/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208353983.jpg?ts=1744582594 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780442/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208353983.jpg?ts=1744582594 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780442/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208353983.jpg?ts=1744582594 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780442/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208353983.jpg?ts=1744582594 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780442/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208353983.jpg?ts=1744582594 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Solomon / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Bueckers will undoubtedly bolster a Wings offense that finished sixth in offensive efficiency (102.1 points per 100 possessions), tied for seventh in 3-point percentage (32.6%), and ranked ninth in mid-range field-goal percentage (35.4%).</p><p>One of Bueckers' greatest strengths is her efficiency year in and year out. The All-American guard is a three-level scorer who made 42.3% of her threes, 49.9% of her mid-range attempts, and 77.6% of her attempts at the rim over four seasons in Storrs. She had an 88.9% clip from the charity stripe this past season, leaving her just shy of joining the exclusive 50-40-90 club.</p><p>Bueckers shot over 50% from the field overall in each of her collegiate campaigns. Her 1.17 points per possession this season was the highest among those with over 16 possessions per contest and at least 25 appearances, according to <a href="https://x.com/SynergySST/status/1910051158112301388">Synergy Basketball</a>.</p><p>Bueckers can single-handedly take over a game with her scoring, whether pulling up off a ball screen, creating separation with step-backs, or finishing floaters in the lane. A threat on and off the ball, she shines as a cutter and movement shooter. Bueckers shouldered the offensive load for an injury-depleted UConn roster throughout its 2024 Final Four run. She also took charge at various points of this year's postseason - including a career-high 40 points in the Sweet 16 versus Oklahoma - to help the Huskies end their nine-year title drought.</p><p>But that isn't Bueckers' preferred style of play. She's calculated in her offensive approach and makes the most of her scoring opportunities. Dallas doesn't need Bueckers to immediately take on the lion's share of the scoring with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/48510" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/48510">Arike Ogunbowale</a> in the fold. Bueckers can initially defer to the four-time All-Star and still pick her spots to attack as she grows more comfortable.</p><p>"I expect a similar efficiency at the pro level," WNBA color commentator Rebecca Lobo told reporters, including theScore, during ESPN's pre-draft media call. "I actually think it will be good if her efficiency is down a little bit because that means she's hunting shots more. … But she's a special talent who can just get where she wants to get, and once she gets there, hit her shots at a ridiculously high efficiency."</p><h3>Sound decision-maker</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780467/cropped_GettyImages-2185035368.jpg?ts=1744587489" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780467/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185035368.jpg?ts=1744587489 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780467/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185035368.jpg?ts=1744587489 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780467/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185035368.jpg?ts=1744587489 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780467/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185035368.jpg?ts=1744587489 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780467/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185035368.jpg?ts=1744587489 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Dallas has been searching for a dynamic point guard since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/15247" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/15247">Skylar Diggins-Smith</a> left the organization in 2020. Last season, the Wings relied on Ogunbowale and ex-Wings forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/61704" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/61704">Satou Sabally</a> as their primary facilitators, while departed guards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121636" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121636">Jacy Sheldon</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121583" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121583">Sevgi Uzun</a> provided little production at the point. Bueckers gives the franchise a more natural playmaker and allows Ogunbowale to play off the ball at the two.</p><p>Bueckers averaged 4.6 assists during her time at UConn, including a Big East-leading 5.8 dimes per contest in 2020-21 as a freshman. The former Wooden Award winner posted a top-10 assist percentage in the conference on three occasions. Known for her ball security, Bueckers also posted an impressive assist-to-turnover ratio of 3.52 this past season, ranking second among her peers.</p><p>Bueckers' scoring ability creates constant pressure on defenses, opening up opportunities for her teammates. The Minnesota native excels at involving others through drive-and-kick plays or dump-offs, using her scoring gravity to create open looks. Whether it's hitting a roller or finding an open shooter on the perimeter, she'll make the correct read more often than not. UConn had great success in a limited sample when Bueckers ran the pick-and-roll, and it's something Dallas may tap into more.</p><p>Bueckers' passing is an additional weapon in transition, as she delivers feeds in stride to rim-runners, seeks out open shooters upcourt, and is decisive when her team has the numbers. The Wings played at the fastest pace and were fourth in fast-break points (10.9) last season. New head coach Chris Koclanes could tailor to one of Bueckers' strong suits and maintain an up-tempo brand of play.</p><h3>Impact defender</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780501/cropped_GettyImages-2208336727.jpg?ts=1744597180" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780501/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208336727.jpg?ts=1744597180 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780501/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208336727.jpg?ts=1744597180 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780501/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208336727.jpg?ts=1744597180 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780501/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208336727.jpg?ts=1744597180 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780501/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208336727.jpg?ts=1744597180 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Solomon / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's no secret that Dallas needs to get a lot better defensively. The Wings allowed a league-worst 117.7 points per 100 possessions - four more points than the next closest team - and finished last in mid-range defense (39.5%) and 3-point defense (36.5%).</p><p>The front office addressed the glaring weakness in the offseason by hiring Koclanes - a defensive-minded coach - and acquiring WNBA All-Defensive first-team selection <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/95206" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/95206">DiJonai Carrington</a>.</p><p>Bueckers' addition is another step in the right direction. The 23-year-old averaged at least two steals and placed in the top five nationally for defensive win shares in three of four seasons with the Huskies. She posted a career-high 4.1% steal percentage in 2024-25 to go along with the 10th-best defensive rating in the NCAA (75.2).</p><p>Additionally, Bueckers constantly made defensive plays without fouling. The three-time Big East Player of the Year has the ability to anticipate what other teams are running, which allows her to frequently blow up plays. She regularly gets her hands in passing lanes to create deflections and force turnovers. Bueckers fights through screens, dives for loose balls, hustles back in transition, and uses her quickness to stay one step ahead of her opponent. That extra effort alongside Carrington will give the Wings a solid defensive tandem on the perimeter.</p><p>Bueckers also has the flexibility to be deployed against forwards. As a junior, she served as the Huskies' de facto power forward with several players sidelined. Bueckers thrived as a paint defender, averaging a career-high 1.4 blocks and finishing second in the conference with 53 swats during the 2023-24 campaign. She tallied multiple rejections in 15 contests that season, including a pair of five-block games. Bueckers was an effective weakside help defender and a vocal leader on the backline, and she used her length to contest shots.</p><h3>Winner's mentality</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780440/cropped_GettyImages-2208456737.jpg?ts=1744582474" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780440/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208456737.jpg?ts=1744582474 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780440/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208456737.jpg?ts=1744582474 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780440/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208456737.jpg?ts=1744582474 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780440/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208456737.jpg?ts=1744582474 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780440/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208456737.jpg?ts=1744582474 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">C. Morgan Engel / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Curt Miller knew exactly how he wanted to build Dallas when the club hired him last November as executive vice president and general manager. The former Executive of the Year went into his first offseason with the organization seeking players with a winning pedigree at either the collegiate or pro level.</p><p>Miller accomplished that goal with his first major move, acquiring Carrington, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55244" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55244">Ty Harris</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/102673" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/102673">NaLyssa Smith</a> in a four-team trade with the Connecticut Sun, Indiana Fever, and Phoenix Mercury. Carrington went to the Final Four with Stanford and has been to the WNBA semifinals or finals in each of her four seasons in the league. Harris won an NCAA championship with South Carolina and started alongside Carrington in the Sun's backcourt during last year's semifinal run. Smith was part of Baylor's 2019 national title squad and made an Elite Eight appearance two years later.</p><p>Bueckers is a perfect fit for the culture Miller is trying to establish. With Bueckers in the lineup, UConn went 110-13 - including three undefeated Big East campaigns - and reached the Final Four every season she was healthy.</p><p>"Winners are important to us. … I think it resonates with all of us GMs that we value winning." Miller told reporters, including theScore, during a pre-WNBA draft availability. "We want to add winning and competitiveness to all our locker rooms."</p>

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Turning the Paige: Analyzing Bueckers' fit with Wings

Darius Adams, Braylon Mullins, and Eric Reibe have yet to suit up for UConn, but you might have n...

<p>Darius Adams, Braylon Mullins, and Eric Reibe have yet to suit up for UConn, but you might have not known that by the way they spoke about their future school at the McDonald’s All-American Games media day.</p><p>The Huskies' commits recently competed in the prestigious high school basketball event, becoming the program's first-ever trio to take part in the same year. They've kept tabs on UConn all year long and hope to help the team battle for another national title next season after its three-peat bid ended in the second round of the NCAA Tournament to eventual champs Florida.</p><p>"It was definitely frustrating," Adams told reporters, including theScore, of watching UConn's season-ending loss from afar. "They played such a good game from my point of view. I wanted to help them so bad. I wanted to be in that spot. And so I kind of felt the pain, too."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Reibe, the second-ranked center in the 2025 class, was similarly driven by the Huskies' early exit from the Big Dance.</p><p>"I just see it as extra motivation just to work harder. Get on that grind again," Reibe said.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780134/cropped_GettyImages-2208992256.jpg?ts=1744408940" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780134/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208992256.jpg?ts=1744408940 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780134/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208992256.jpg?ts=1744408940 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780134/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208992256.jpg?ts=1744408940 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780134/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208992256.jpg?ts=1744408940 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780134/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208992256.jpg?ts=1744408940 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>All three incoming freshmen could immediately find themselves in UConn's rotation.</p><p>Mullins and Adams rank 14th and 27th, respectively, on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/playerrankings">ESPN 100</a> for 2025. Both guards have elite positional size and are among the top 3-point marksmen in this year's class. They each thrived at the high school level as movement shooters, which has been a staple of the motion-based offense devised by Huskies head coach Dan Hurley and assistant Luke Murray.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110274" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110274">Jordan Hawkins</a> of the New Orleans Pelicans, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121733" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121733">Cam Spencer</a> of the Memphis Grizzlies, and current UConn guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110441" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110441">Solo Ball</a> are among the recent players that flourished in the complexed system.</p><p>However, shooting is just part of the equation. </p><p>Players must be able to read and react to opposing defenses on the fly. That could mean exposing a one-on-one mismatch caused by the Huskies' chaotic screening actions or hitting an open cutter.</p><p>Mullins excelled as playmaker in the halfcourt and transition, averaging 4.2 assists during his senior year at Greenfield-Central High School. Meanwhile, Adams is dangerous coming off screens, punishing defenses with his downhill driving ability and passing.</p><p>"Dan Hurley's offense is one of a kind," Adams said. "Just the way he gets his players open, it's dangerous for sure."</p><p>Adams added: "I'm a shooter. But just being able to do that and dribble and pass ... creates open opportunities for other people. It's really gonna be hard to stop (Mullins and I)."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780133/cropped_GettyImages-2208746023.jpg?ts=1744408658" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780133/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208746023.jpg?ts=1744408658 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780133/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208746023.jpg?ts=1744408658 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780133/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208746023.jpg?ts=1744408658 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780133/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208746023.jpg?ts=1744408658 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780133/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208746023.jpg?ts=1744408658 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Hurley looks for the same type of offensive versatility in his big men.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121690" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121690">Donovan Clingan</a> was known first and foremost as an elite rim-protector during his time in Storrs, but the 7-foot-2 center was also an integral part of UConn's top-ranked offense in 2023-2024 before joining the Portland Trail Blazers.</p><p>Clingan was frequently setting screens to free up shooters on the perimeter. If the defense was switching on ball screens, he could slip to the hoop for an easy basket.</p><p>Clingan served as a playmaking hub, too, facilitating from the high post. The future lottery pick was great at recognizing when to hand off the ball to a guard and when to deliver it to a cutter instead. His ability to set up others from the perimeter drew the opposing team's shot-blocker away from the paint and left a clear path to the basket for cuts.</p><p>Reibe brings a lot of the same offensive skills to the table.</p><p>The 7-foot German can score out of the short roll, pass from the top of the key or on the block with his back to the basket, and he's been used in dribble-handoff actions.</p><p>What makes Reibe different from Clingan and incumbent center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102849" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102849">Tarris Reed Jr.</a> is his ball-handling skills and shooting range.</p><p>Reibe can fake a handoff and take the ball all the way to the rack instead. He's a legitimate floor-spacing weapon in pick-and-pops, and he showcased his 3-point stroke as a member of Germany's under-18 team at last year's Albert Schweitzer Tournament, making nearly two threes per game on a 57.9% clip.</p><p>Teams have to respect Reibe's jumper, and that gives him chances to put the ball on the floor whenever they close out too aggressively.</p><p>Reibe credits former coach Nemanja Calasan for ingraining an all-around approach into him. The ex-Purdue big man began working with Reibe when he was 8 years old and always stressed the importance of being a shooter, passer, and ball-handler.</p><p>Those early lessons always stuck with Reibe and will serve him well as he transitions to a Huskies offense that's all about versatility.</p><p>"Just how coach Hurley used Donovan Clingan on the offensive side - giving handoffs, rolling (to the rim). … I could see myself in that position," Reibe said.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780132/cropped_DSC02366.jpg?ts=1744408509" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780132/w220xh124_DSC02366.jpg?ts=1744408509 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780132/w320xh180_DSC02366.jpg?ts=1744408509 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780132/w640xh360_DSC02366.jpg?ts=1744408509 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780132/w768xh432_DSC02366.jpg?ts=1744408509 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780132/w1080xh607_DSC02366.jpg?ts=1744408509 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Courtesy of McDonald's All-American Games</span></figcaption></figure><p>But X's and O's were only part of the draw to UConn.</p><p>Each of the highly touted freshmen have cited their relationship with Hurley as a factor in their commitment.</p><p>Adams spoke about the special connection they made from their shared New Jersey roots. Mullins <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/41967143/top-25-recruit-braylon-mullins-commits-uconn-huskies-men-basketball">appreciates</a> that Hurley is "very upfront" and gives him hard coaching.</p><p>Hurley's intense nature isn't everybody's cup of tea, but Reibe believes it comes from a good place.</p><p>"I just think that it kind of reflects his passion for the game and his love for his (players) and coaches," Reibe said. "He just has high expectations, as he should." </p><p>UConn is poised for a bounce-back campaign despite losing starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162131" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162131">Liam McNeeley</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/95594" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/95594">Samson Johnson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/92653" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/92653">Hassan Diarra</a>.</p><p>Reed was a double-double threat in extended minutes, while Ball developed into one of the nation's top 3-point snipers during his first full season as a starter.</p><p>Georgia transfer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110707" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110707">Silas Demary Jr.</a> has drawn comparisons to ex-Huskies floor general <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121710" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121710">Tristen Newton</a> with his size, defense, and shot-making at the lead guard position.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102538" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102538">Alex Karaban</a>'s return would solidify UConn's starting five.</p><p>But the Huskies' title hopes may ultimately hinge on the development of their star-studded recruiting class.</p><p>Mullins understood the lofty standards in Storrs when he committed to the six-time national champs last October, and that hasn't deterred him or his fellow freshmen one bit as they prepare for their own quest to college basketball's summit.</p><p>"Coming off a year where they got beat in the second round, it's just something that coach Hurley is just gonna harp on every single day that they didn't win that third in a row," Mullins said. "He wants to prove something wrong to other people and wants us to win three in four (years)."</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - APRIL 01: From left to right McDonalds High School All Americans Darius Adams (20) and Eric Reibe (22) and Braylon Mullins (24) who will all be attending UCONN pose for a group photo before the McDonalds Boys High School All American Game on April 1, 2025, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

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UConn reloads for another title run with McDonald's All-American trio

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Chicco Nacion

News Editor

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