Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer is fully supportive of the NBA's decision to investigate...

Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer is fully supportive of the NBA's decision to investigate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a>'s $28-million "no-show" endorsement deal with Aspiration.Aspiration is a "green bank" and tree planting company that received a $50-million investment from Ballmer and is currently under federal investigation for fraud. It was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3337464" href="https://thescore.com/news/3337464">reported</a> earlier this week by journalist Pablo Torre that the Clippers circumvented the league's salary cap by paying Leonard through the third-party company.Ballmer said Aspiration asked to be introduced to Leonard in November 2021, three months after the two-time Finals MVP signed a four-year, $173-million extension to remain in L.A. But the former Microsoft CEO said he was unaware of the financial terms of their endorsement deal nor gave the now-bankrupt company any direction to sign the Clippers forward to such a contract.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"These were guys who committed fraud," Ballmer told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46161800/clippers-ballmer-details-affiliation-aspiration-wake-kawhi-leonard-report">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>. "Look, they conned me. They conned me. I made an investment in these guys thinking it was on the up-and-up, and they conned me at this stage. I have no ability to predict why they might have done anything they did, let alone the specific contract with Kawhi."Leonard also secured a side deal with Aspiration to receive an additional $20 million in company stock, a source told <a href="https://www.bostonsportsjournal.com/2025/09/04/exclusive-kawhi-leonard-endorsement-deal-that-triggered-nba-investigation-actually-worth-48-million?utm_source=dlvr.it&amp;utm_medium=twitter">John Karalis of The Boston Sports Journal</a>. The stock was reportedly to be paid out from Aspiration co-founder Joseph Sanberg's personal holdings in the company over four years.Sanberg pleaded guilty in August to defrauding investors and lenders of more than $248 million.The Clippers agreed to a $300-million partnership with Aspiration in September 2021, which included sponsorship in the Intuit Dome and the team's jersey patch.Ballmer said he was "embarrassed" he didn't notice any red flags before doing business with the company."I reviewed, my staff reviewed primarily fraudulent financials," Ballmer said. "Now, should I have sniffed it out? Maybe I feel embarrassed and kind of silly that I didn't sniff it out, but I didn't."I made the investment. A lot of other smart investors didn't sniff it out either."Ballmer also denied that Leonard's camp - led by his uncle Dennis Robertson - asked for any additional benefits that went against the NBA's rules.The league reportedly investigated Leonard's free-agency negotiations in 2019 over allegations that Robertson asked teams for "improper benefits" that would violate the CBA. However, the NBA concluded that there was no evidence that the Clippers had granted any of those requests."They know the rules. They meaning Kawhi and his representatives, including his uncle," Ballmer said. "We know the rules. And if anything's not clear, we remind ourselves what the rules are and we make absolutely clear we're going to abide by those rules and they understand them as well. And it's important for them to abide by them, which they have."

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Owner Steven Ballmer of the LA Clippers looks on before the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on March 02, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Clippers' Ballmer: I was 'conned' by company that paid Kawhi

The Brooklyn Nets re-signed guard Cam Thomas, the team announced Thursday.  The restricted free a...

The Brooklyn Nets re-signed guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96032" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96032">Cam Thomas</a>, the team announced Thursday.The restricted free agent inked a one-year, $6-million qualifying offer to remain with the Nets, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46153839/sources-nets-cam-thomas-picks-6m-deal-fa-2026">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Thomas' decision gives him a full no-trade clause and allows him to hit unrestricted free agency next summer.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The LSU product reportedly declined a two-year, $30-million contract with a team option for the second year as well as a one-year deal worth up to $11 million with incentives but without a no-trade clause, sources told Charania.Thomas averaged career highs in both points (24 per contest) and assists (3.8) last season to go along with a 34.9% clip from distance. However, he was limited to 25 appearances due to a hamstring strain.Thomas is just the fifth first-rounder to sign a qualifying offer since 2017. He was among a handful of notable restricted free agents who have yet to sign a contract ahead of the 2025-26 season.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 08: Cam Thomas #24 of the Brooklyn Nets plays against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on March 08, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Nets re-sign Thomas to reported 1-year, $6M qualifying offer

Kawhi Leonard signed a $28-million "no-show" endorsement deal with Aspiration - a "green bank" an...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> signed a $28-million "no-show" endorsement deal with Aspiration - a "green bank" and tree planting company currently under federal investigation for fraud that received $50 million in funding from Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, reports <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OwzYk6OCFM">Pablo Torre of the "Pablo Torre Finds Out" podcast</a>, citing company documents and sources.The agreement was designed to allow the Clippers to "circumvent the salary cap," a former Aspiration employee told Torre. Multiple ex-Aspiration employees described the arrangement with Leonard as a "no-show job."The Clippers denied any wrongdoing in a statement to Torre.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Neither Mr. Ballmer nor the Clippers circumvented the salary cap or engaged in any misconduct related to Aspiration. Any contrary assertion is provably false," the team said.The NBA later made a statement announcing it will look further into the matter."We are aware of this morning's media report regarding the LA Clippers and are commencing an investigation," NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement to <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1963328648032768376">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Ballmer agreed to invest in the environmental startup in September 2021, according to documents obtained by Torre, and announced a Clippers partnership with Aspiration later that month. Leonard signed the endorsement deal in April 2022.Aspiration agreed to pay KL2 Aspire LLC $28 million in cash over the course of the deal - including $7 million annually, Torre reports, citing the contract itself.Aspiration filed for bankruptcy in March 2025 and owed $7 million to KL2 Aspire LLC, which is managed by the Clippers star, per documents obtained by Torre.Various celebrities endorsed the company, including Robert Downey Jr. and Drake. However, Leonard apparently never made a public appearance or reference that promoted Aspiration. Under his contract with the company, Leonard had "the exclusive right to control and approve all content and distribution," and Aspiration could terminate the deal if Leonard was "no longer an employee of the (Clippers) for any reason."Leonard originally joined the Clippers in 2019, inking a three-year, $103-million contract. The NBA reportedly investigated Leonard's free agency that year due to allegations that Leonard's uncle, Dennis Robertson, had asked teams for "improper benefits" that would violate the CBA, but the league didn't find evidence that the Clippers had granted any of those requests. Leonard opted out of the final year of his original deal and signed a four-year, $176.3-million contract in August 2021 to remain with the club.Los Angeles signed Leonard to a three-year, $149.5-million extension in January 2024. The two-time Finals MVP won't be a free agent until 2027.Aspiration co-founder Joseph Sanberg pleaded guilty in August to defrauding investors and lenders of more than $248 million.

LOS ANGELES, CA - JULY 24: From left, Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard during a press conference at the Green Meadows Recreation Center in Los Angeles on Wednesday, July 24, 2019. George and Leonard were introduced to the media and fans as the newest members of the Clippers.

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Report: Clippers circumvented cap with $28M endorsement deal for Kawhi

The Dallas Mavericks signed P.J. Washington to a four-year, $90-million contract extension, his a...

The Dallas Mavericks signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60416" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60416">P.J. Washington</a> to a four-year, $90-million contract extension, his agent told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46146191/mavericks-f-pj-washington-agrees-4-year-90m-extension">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The new deal will keep Washington in Dallas through the 2029-30 campaign. He was previously set to become a free agent in summer 2026.Washington is ineligible to be dealt this season, according to <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1963264808217608282">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dallas already locked up <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Daniel Gafford</a> earlier this summer. Irving declined his $43-million player option for 2025-26 in favor of a new three-year, $118.5-million contract, and Gafford inked a three-year, $60-million extension.Washington averaged 14.7 points, 7.8 boards, and 2.3 assists across 57 appearances last season. Dallas acquired him from the Charlotte Hornets in February 2024, and he started all 22 games during the Mavs' run to the Finals that year.Dallas now has one of the NBA's deeper frontcourts under contract for multiple seasons. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> has at least two years left on his deal, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110268" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110268">Dereck Lively II</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171822" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171822">Cooper Flagg</a> are both on their rookie-scale contracts.

DALLAS, TX - MAY 13: PJ Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks celebrates during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round 2 Game 4 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on May 13, 2024 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Mavs sign Washington to 4-year, $90M extension

UConn head coach Dan Hurley considered stepping down after the 2024-25 campaign due to the emotio...

UConn head coach Dan Hurley considered stepping down after the 2024-25 campaign due to the emotional toll of pursuing a third straight national championship."I thought about leaving. Taking a gap year. Resigning as head coach of the UConn Huskies," Hurley wrote in his new book, "Never Stop: Life, Leadership, and What It Takes To Be Great," per <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6592998/2025/09/03/dan-hurley-uconn-basketball-quit-resign-new-book/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Andrew Marchand</a>."I knew my mind, and I knew my body, and I could feel that I was completely cooked," Hurley added. "Just burnt. I didn’t even know how I was standing. I stared at the office walls, muttering, conducting a brutal review of our season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I didn't build a strong enough roster. I wasn't a good leader. I let everyone down in Maui. I lost control, emotionally, at various points. I came in here some days sad and defeated, when I needed to be positive and inspiring."Hurley had "very preliminary talks" with Fox Sports about becoming a television analyst, Marchand reports, citing sources.The 52-year-old Hurley grew frustrated with coaching in the transfer portal and NIL era. He said he spoke to ex-Villanova head coach Jay Wright the previous summer after the latter had transitioned to an analyst role with CBS and TNT Sports.Hurley says Wright was enjoying his post-coaching career and not "sick to his stomach nine months of the year."However, Hurley ultimately decided to return for an eighth season with UConn."I cherish my job, my players, our school, our fans, and our boosters," Hurley wrote. "I've got the very best job in the country with the very best program in college basketball over the last quarter century. All of that is hand-on-the-Bible true."But what's also true is the massive toll that coaching takes on you and your family. The whole thing is exhausting. The seasons are excruciating even when they are going great."The Huskies re-established themselves among the country's top programs with Hurley at the helm.UConn captured the 2024 Big East regular-season crown and conference tournament en route to becoming the first school since Florida in 2007 to win back-to-back national championships. The Huskies lost to Florida in the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament.Hurley holds a 165-59 record during his Huskies tenure. He won Naismith and Big East Coach of the Year honors in 2024.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 13: Head coach Dan Hurley of the Connecticut Huskies calms his players down during a quarterfinal round game during the Big East Men's Basketball Tournament against the Villanova Wildcats at Madison Square Garden on March 13, 2025 in New York City.

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Hurley considered resigning after last season: 'I was completely cooked'

Washington Wizards center Alex Sarr will miss the remainder of EuroBasket due to a calf injury, t...

Washington Wizards center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121720" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121720">Alex Sarr</a> will miss the remainder of EuroBasket due to a calf injury, the tournament announced Tuesday.Sarr won't undergo surgery and is expected to be ready for the start of the upcoming NBA season, a source told <a href="https://x.com/JoshuaBRobbins/status/1962944181560561850">The Athletic's Josh Robbins</a>.The 7-footer averaged 9.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and one block in two EuroBasket appearances for France.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Washington selected Sarr with the No. 2 overall pick in last year's NBA draft. The 20-year-old showed some promise in his debut campaign, averaging 13 points, 6.5 boards, 2.4 assists, and 1.5 blocks across 67 appearances. He was the youngest player in franchise history to have a 30-point game.Sarr finished fourth in NBA Rookie of the Year voting and was named to the All-Rookie first team.

Alexandre Sarr plays during the FIBA EuroBasket match between France and Slovenia in Katowice, Poland, on August 30, 2025. This is a European Basketball Championship game, group phase, Group D competition in Spodek Arena.

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Wizards' Sarr out of EuroBasket, reportedly expected to be ready for season

Angel Reese returned to her roots this season.  Chicago Sky head coach Tyler Marsh empowered the ...

Angel Reese returned to her roots this season.Chicago Sky head coach Tyler Marsh empowered the 6-foot-3 forward to handle the rock and initiate more of the team's offense.It's similar to how Reese was used in high school when she was the top-ranked wing and No. 2 overall prospect in the 2020 recruiting class behind Paige Bueckers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The LSU product's ball-handling skills and court vision are better than most players her size, as she was initially a point guard before a growth spurt in middle school.Chicago leaned on Reese to be its primary facilitator after veteran floor general Courtney Vandersloot suffered a season-ending ACL injury just seven games into the campaign. The two-time All-Star embraced her new responsibilities and has been happy to put her playmaking skills to use."It was just so much fun being able to play that point forward (role)," Reese told theScore at WNBA All-Star Weekend in July. "Being able to do a little bit of everything. ... Just being able to get back into that. I don't want to be one-dimensional."I want to be able to be somebody that's unguardable. I'm in this league to get better, and I want to win. But I also want to just continue to be here, sustain myself, and one day be an MVP because I'm surrounded by great players."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798780/cropped_GettyImages-2228826376.jpg?ts=1756078649" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798780/w220xh124_GettyImages-2228826376.jpg?ts=1756078649 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798780/w320xh180_GettyImages-2228826376.jpg?ts=1756078649 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798780/w640xh360_GettyImages-2228826376.jpg?ts=1756078649 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798780/w768xh432_GettyImages-2228826376.jpg?ts=1756078649 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798780/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2228826376.jpg?ts=1756078649 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> G Fiume / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Reese's growth into an effective point forward has been a silver lining in the Sky's season. The Maryland native boasts a 20.5% assist percentage and averages 3.7 dimes, which is nearly double the amount from a year ago. She's registered at least five assists on seven occasions, including a career-high 11 en route to her maiden triple-double.Marsh was previously an assistant with the Aces and envisioned running the club's half-court offense through Reese at the elbow, similarly to A'ja Wilson. The two players are fittingly the only ones <a href="http://stats.wnba.com/leaders/?CF=PTS*GE*10:REB*GE*10:AST*GE*3&amp;Season=2025&amp;SeasonType=Regular%20Season">tallying</a> at least 10 points, 10 boards, and three assists per contest in the WNBA this season.Reese isn't forcing as many shots, and that's led to more playmaking opportunities. When Reese gets walled up or doubled in the post, she's more than willing to find open shooters off the drive-and-kick or dump off passes to her frontcourt partner.Reese continues to develop chemistry with fellow second-year big Kamilla Cardoso and veteran center Elizabeth Williams, assisting on 36 of their buckets this season. Reese frequently sets up both players on cuts, mid-range jumpers, and high-low feeds.Reese's dominance on the defensive glass provides chances to grab and go in transition off missed shots and make outlet passes to teammates leaking ahead of the opposing defense.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1 minute &amp; 14 seconds of Angel Reese as a passer this season <a href="https://t.co/px4X3j8lXQ">pic.twitter.com/px4X3j8lXQ</a>— Hunter Cruse (@HunterCruse14) <a href="https://twitter.com/HunterCruse14/status/1939849049114648867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"The ball is in my hands," Reese said. "I don't know what the (usage) percentage is right now, but it's a lot. ... I think it's cool to see that's the new norm. Look at (Nikola) Jokic. Look at Giannis (Antetokounmpo). Look at KD bringing the ball down. That's scary."Satou (Sabally) has talked a little bit about being a unicorn. That's just something I just want to continue to do and make that the standard of everything because that's just what we are now."Reese credits her time at Unrivaled - the new offseason three-on-three women's basketball league co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart - for helping her take the next step this year.The increased pace and spacing in the full-court three-on-three league gave Reese valuable ball-handling reps in both transition and the half court. She made quick reads while running the fast break and going one-on-one in isolation.Reese' ability to create for others when driving downhill gives her more room to operate off the bounce and cleaner looks around the basket. The 23-year-old's finishing has also improved from her rookie campaign after working alongside WNBA legend Lisa Leslie at Unrivaled.Reese is converting 40.6% of shots in the non-restricted area of the paint - a whopping 23.5% increase over last season - and 51.8% of her attempts at the rim. The former All-American's rising efficiency and development into the Sky's offensive hub earned Reese her second All-Star nod in as many seasons."It means everything for me," Reese said. "First year, it's much easier than this year because you go into the league where people know your game but not really."Year two, everybody knows your game, and it will show if you don't get better in that offseason. I definitely got better this offseason at Unrivaled as you can see. It took a minute to get it going. ... It's not supposed to be easy, but my work showed."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799074/cropped_GettyImages-2226061617.jpg?ts=1756312551" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799074/w220xh124_GettyImages-2226061617.jpg?ts=1756312551 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799074/w320xh180_GettyImages-2226061617.jpg?ts=1756312551 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799074/w640xh360_GettyImages-2226061617.jpg?ts=1756312551 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799074/w768xh432_GettyImages-2226061617.jpg?ts=1756312551 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799074/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2226061617.jpg?ts=1756312551 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Reese's sophomore campaign hasn't been without some bumps in the road. The former SEC Player of the Year got off to a slow start, averaging only 9.1 points on 30.9% shooting through her first seven appearances.Reese received hateful comments online, <a href="https://x.com/espnW/status/1932634650146435263">prompting</a> teammate Ariel Atkins to come to her defense during a postgame press conference in June.The eighth-year guard was acquired from the Washington Mystics in an offseason trade and has been a helpful addition to Chicago's locker room, especially for Reese as she worked through those early struggles."I love Ariel," Reese said. "Ariel is probably one of the best teammates I've ever had. She's a great vet for me. She's fun, but she also keeps it real, and I know she always has my back. She's not into all the social media stuff, but she'll stick up for me in a heartbeat."She's just been somebody that's always been a shoulder that I can always lean on, cry on, laugh with. ... I know I can always ride with Ariel no matter what. She's just a huge supporter of me."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798779/cropped_GettyImages-2231720980.jpg?ts=1756078177" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798779/w220xh124_GettyImages-2231720980.jpg?ts=1756078177 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798779/w320xh180_GettyImages-2231720980.jpg?ts=1756078177 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798779/w640xh360_GettyImages-2231720980.jpg?ts=1756078177 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798779/w768xh432_GettyImages-2231720980.jpg?ts=1756078177 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798779/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2231720980.jpg?ts=1756078177 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Reese is already leaving her mark as her second WNBA season draws to a close.She broke the all-time single-season rebounding record as a rookie and surpassed Tina Charles for the most doubles-doubles through a player's first two campaigns. She's also the second-youngest player in league history to register a triple-double.Reese knows she'll be subject to online negativity, regardless of how much success she achieves. But instead, Reese chooses to focus on her craft and becoming the best player she can be."Just staying grounded. Keeping the main thing the main thing," Reese said of her approach. "I'm really blessed. I pray a lot. I have long nights. I have long car rides where I just drive and smile or drive and cry or drive and pray. I think it's just a part of the process. It's a part of the moment for me."I've always been a person that can just trust God, trust everything that I go through, and never be too down on myself. … It took me a couple of months after I won a national championship to get acclimated to this new life."Reese added, "Sometimes people ask me, 'Do I wish I had a normal life?' I mean, yeah, sometimes. But at the same time, it comes with benefits. It comes with great things. And I'm really blessed. I'm really grateful for everything."

BROOKLYN, NY - AUGUST 21: Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky smiles during the game against the New York Liberty on August 21, 2025 at Barclays Center Arena in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Point Angel: Reese's playmaking growth a silver lining in Sky's season

New Jersey Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald is optimistic about contract negotiations with r...

New Jersey Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald is optimistic about contract negotiations with restricted free-agent defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10579" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10579">Luke Hughes</a>."Eventually, this will get done," Fitzgerald told <a href="https://rg.org/news/hockey/devils-gm-tom-fitzgerald-on-luke-hughes-contract-eventually-this-will-get-done">James Murphy of RG Media</a>. "The 11th hour is training camp, right? A lot of times, a lot of the stuff doesn't get done until the 11th hour."We're hoping we can get something done here in quick fashion, and both sides are working hard at it, that's for sure."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New Jersey is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3334096" href="https://thescore.com/news/3334096">reportedly</a> seeking the max eight-year term or a bridge deal, while Hughes' representatives are looking for a five-year contract to align with his brother and teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8594" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8594">Jack</a>.Fitzgerald is hoping to avoid a repeat of last year when forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9193" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9193">Dawson Mercer</a> missed the first three days of training camp before securing a three-year, $12-million contract."At the end of the day, when really the only leverage the player has at this point in their career is holding out, that stinks," Fitzgerald said. "I don't think anyone wins, quite honestly, when that happens. So (Hughes' agent) and I are trying hard to get this thing to come to some common ground."The Devils selected Hughes with the No. 4 overall pick in 2021. The 6-foot-2 blue-liner tallied seven goals and 37 assists in 71 appearances last season.Hughes finished third in Calder Award voting during the 2023-24 campaign.New Jersey opens training camp Sept. 10.

NEWARK, NJ - MARCH 31: New Jersey Devils defenseman Luke Hughes (43) takes a shot during a NHL game between the Minnesota Wild and New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on March 31, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Devils GM: Luke Hughes' deal will get done

Tennessee signed head coach Rick Barnes to a lifetime contract, the school's vice chancellor and ...

Tennessee signed head coach Rick Barnes to a lifetime contract, the school's vice chancellor and director of athletics Danny White announced Thursday.Barnes spent the last decade with the Volunteers, posting a 232-109 record. The school made seven NCAA Tournament appearances during that span, including back-to-back Elite Eight runs in the last two years.Barnes also guided Tennessee to a pair of SEC regular-season titles and a conference tournament crown. The 71-year-old trails only Ray Mears on the Volunteers' all-time wins list.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Barnes won Naismith Coach of the Year honors in 2019 when the school was atop the AP poll for several weeks during the regular season."Rick has taken our program to unprecedented heights, and we are absolutely thrilled to have him continue coaching on Rocky Top for the rest of his career," White said in a statement."He has constructed this program the right way, achieving elite-level success on the court while also ensuring that all our players excel off the court."Barnes' previous head coaching stops include George Mason, Providence, Clemson, and Texas. The four-time Big 12 Coach of the Year made his lone national semifinals appearance in 2003 when he led the Longhorns to the Final Four.Barnes is the active Division I wins leader with 836 victories over 38 seasons.

LEXINGTON, KY - MARCH 20: Tennessee Volunteers coach Rick Barnes coaching on the sidelines against the Wofford Terriers during the first round of the NCAA Men's Division 1 Championship at Rupp Arena on March 20, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky.

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Tennessee signs Barnes to lifetime contract

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Max Strus is expected to miss three-to-four months after undergoing s...

Cleveland Cavaliers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52639" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52639">Max Strus</a> is expected to miss three-to-four months after undergoing surgery to repair a Jones fracture in his left foot, the team announced Tuesday.The 29-year-old recently sustained the injury during offseason training.Strus would miss at least 19 games under the timeline provided by the club.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Strus' absence could shift <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> into the starting lineup and open up more minutes for sharpshooter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93904" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93904">Sam Merrill</a> and second-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121674" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121674">Jaylon Tyson</a> off the bench.Cleveland inked Strus to a four–year, $63-million contract in 2023 as part of a sign-and-trade deal involving the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs.Strus was limited to just 50 appearances last season but had a solid playoff showing, averaging 11.7 points and shooting 38.8% from deep.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 9: Max Strus #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers during Round 2 Game 3 on May 9, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Cavs' Strus out 3-4 months after foot surgery

Former Dallas Mavericks majority owner Mark Cuban is still reeling from Luka Doncic's shocking tr...

Former Dallas Mavericks majority owner Mark Cuban is still reeling from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>'s shocking trade to the Los Angeles Lakers in February."We all were hurt when Luka got traded. Me as much as anyone because I felt like I let people down by not being there. But what's done is done," Cuban told the <a href="https://x.com/DLLS_Mavs/status/1960405586119680149">"DLLS Mavs Podcast."</a>Cuban relinquished control of basketball operations after selling his majority stake in the Mavericks to Miriam Adelson and Patrick Dumont in December 2023.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dallas president of basketball operations and general manager Nico Harrison now reports to Dumont on all roster personnel matters, even though Cuban still has a 27% share in the franchise.Cuban has already been vocal about the lacking return for Doncic, which consisted of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102775" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102775">Max Christie</a>, and a 2029 first-round pick. However, he's optimistic that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171822" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171822">Cooper Flagg</a> - this year's No. 1 overall pick - will help re-engage the club's fan base."We got Cooper. The basketball gods were looking down on us, and Coop's the real deal. He's not even 19 years old," Cuban said. "He could literally - depending on science - play for the Mavs for 25 years. I'm guessing if we do well and win, those sentiments will change."

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JULY 10: Mark Cuban speaks onstage during Global Citizen NOW at Hudson’s Detroit on July 10, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Cuban: 'I let people down' with Luka trade

Napheesa Collier led all players with 32 points in the Minnesota Lynx's 97-84 victory Sunday over...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/48780" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/48780">Napheesa Collier</a> led all players with 32 points in the Minnesota Lynx's 97-84 victory Sunday over the Indiana Fever.Collier returned to the starting lineup after missing the last seven games due to an ankle sprain. She was widely considered the front-runner for WNBA MVP prior to being sidelined.Collier shot 11-of-16 from the field and 8-of-9 from the charity stripe. The UConn product also tallied nine boards, two assists, and two steals in 31 minutes of action.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I had to knock some rust off, (but) it feels like you're on the outside when you are not playing ... it feels good to be on the court with them again," Collier told reporters postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/kendra__andrews/status/1959791029944721448">ESPN's Kendra Andrews</a>.Minnesota hardly missed a beat during Collier's absence, winning five of seven games to remain atop the league standings.Collier entered Sunday's game leading the WNBA in scoring (23.5 points per contest) and ranking in the top five in both steals (1.8) and blocks (1.6) this season. She also came in fifth in free-throw percentage (90.8%), seventh in field-goal percentage (53.7%), and 10th in rebounds (7.5).Collier earned her fifth All-Star nod earlier this season and won All-Star Game MVP honors after scoring a record 36 points. She captured her maiden Defensive Player of the Year award last year.

LAS VEGAS, NV - AUGUST 2: Napheesa Collier #24 of the Minnesota Lynx looks on during the game against the Las Vegas Aces during a WNBA game on August 2, 2025 at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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WNBA MVP front-runner Collier drops 32 vs. Fever in return

Ben Shelton always seems to save his best tennis for the sport's biggest stages.  The 22-year-old...

Ben Shelton always seems to save his best tennis for the sport's biggest stages.The 22-year-old has already made two major semifinals in just three full pro seasons, and he's the fourth-youngest American man to reach the fourth round or better at all four Grand Slams.Shelton has won over 70% of his matches at the major level, including an 11-3 mark this season. But his two defeats to Jannik Sinner and French Open loss to Carlos Alcaraz have served as his biggest teaching moments.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It's always good to be able to get to the point (of the tournament) where you're playing against the best," Shelton told theScore last July at the National Bank Open in Toronto. "Every match that I play ... against one of the best players in the world is huge for me, and I think continues to help develop and move me forward."For me, it's just learning what I'm good at. What I'm not good at. What I need to be better at. I'm a player who is developing. I don't think I'm where I want to be yet, and that's kind of what I put all my focus into after playing matches against some of the best players in the world. What I need to do better to be at that level."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798519/cropped_GettyImages-2224317884.jpg?ts=1755896808" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798519/w220xh124_GettyImages-2224317884.jpg?ts=1755896808 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798519/w320xh180_GettyImages-2224317884.jpg?ts=1755896808 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798519/w640xh360_GettyImages-2224317884.jpg?ts=1755896808 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798519/w768xh432_GettyImages-2224317884.jpg?ts=1755896808 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798519/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2224317884.jpg?ts=1755896808 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Peter van den Berg/ISI Photos / ISI Photos / Getty</figcaption></figure>Tiebreakers have been Shelton's kryptonite: He's won just over 50% of them during his brief career, even though he's armed with one of the fastest serves on the ATP Tour. He lost five of six tiebreakers in his Wimbledon tuneup events, which led to a pair of early exits. He also dropped the first-set tiebreaker in each of his Grand Slam meetings this year against both Sinner and Alcaraz.However, Shelton has shown some progress during the summer hard-court swing, specifically in Toronto, where he captured his maiden Masters 1000 crown. The Florida product won three third-set tiebreakers, including the championship-clincher against Karen Khachanov.Shelton kept most of the rallies short, applying pressure on Khachanov early in the point to force multiple errors. With Khachanov trailing 5-2 in the tiebreaker and on his serve, the American ripped a huge forehand return winner and subsequently closed out the match two points later."Just really proud that Ben was brave in the breaker, especially the early part of the breaker to get that lead," said Ben's father and coach, Bryan Shelton, about his son's approach in the decisive tiebreaker versus Khachanov."He went for his shots. Trusted the work that he's put in, and he executed," the elder Shelton added. "He's doing the right things. I think for him, it's just being willing to continue to be brave in the moments."Shelton's playing his best tennis entering his first-round US Open match Sunday against qualifier Ignacio Buse. He's ranked a career-high sixth in the world and has reached the quarterfinals or better at four consecutive ATP tour-level events for the first time.Shelton's improved backhand has been a major part of his evolution this year and adds another reliable weapon to his arsenal. The former NCAA champ made some technical changes to it after spending the offseason watching video of Novak Djokovic, Sinner, and Alcaraz's groundstroke. It's allowed Shelton to be more competitive in longer rallies and not so overdependent on his serve to win matches."The biggest piece was being able to hit it on the move," Shelton said of his backhand. "I think any shot that you can hit on the move and in uncomfortable positions, it just makes the shot better in general. Hitting my backhand open-stance, under pressure, (and) on the move was really big for me for passing shots because that's a side that people try to exploit.Shelton added, "The better that I hit my backhand, the more versatile I become with it. I've been hitting it pretty well with topspin. Changing heights (and) going high sometimes over the net. Flattening some out and hitting them low. I think it makes it a lot easier to hit a shot like that when you have been varying the shot height."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798520/cropped_GettyImages-2230347032.jpg?ts=1755897006" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798520/w220xh124_GettyImages-2230347032.jpg?ts=1755897006 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798520/w320xh180_GettyImages-2230347032.jpg?ts=1755897006 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798520/w640xh360_GettyImages-2230347032.jpg?ts=1755897006 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798520/w768xh432_GettyImages-2230347032.jpg?ts=1755897006 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798520/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2230347032.jpg?ts=1755897006 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Dylan Buell / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Shelton's also adding more variety to his booming serve. The 22-year-old's ability to change speed with a kick serve, slice the ball out wide, and hit serves into the body as a lefty makes it difficult for opponents to get into a rhythm when returning.Khachanov struggled to pick up on the different placements of Shelton's serve, converting just one break point and winning only 20% of first-serve return points at the National Bank Open final in early August."You really don't know what to expect," Khachanov told theScore following his loss to Shelton. "You not only have to make the return in play, but then he comes (back) with a big (shot) after that. So it's not (enough) just to push the ball back. You need to really return properly."While Shelton's pleased with his progress across the board, he says the "biggest strides" this season were made on his return of serve. Shelton took great pride in having different return styles for each opponent during the 12-day tournament in Toronto, where he faced top servers Taylor Fritz and Brandon Nakashima. The three-time ATP titlist broke each player's serve three times en route to victory.Shelton ranks 13th in break points converted (41.88%), capitalizing on nearly 7% more of his chances from a year ago. He's also 12th on the men's circuit in second-serve return points won (709) and 13th in first-serve return points won (711)."You just look at the stats. I'm more consistent on the return," Shelton told theScore. "I'm winning more (points) off second-serve returns by being aggressive. I'm putting more returns in play. "I've been more versatile throughout the match to find positions that work for me on the return of serve," he added. "I'm not happy where I'm at yet, but I'm going in the right direction."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798522/cropped_GettyImages-2229016370.jpg?ts=1755897198" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798522/w220xh124_GettyImages-2229016370.jpg?ts=1755897198 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798522/w320xh180_GettyImages-2229016370.jpg?ts=1755897198 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798522/w640xh360_GettyImages-2229016370.jpg?ts=1755897198 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798522/w768xh432_GettyImages-2229016370.jpg?ts=1755897198 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798522/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2229016370.jpg?ts=1755897198 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Shelton's run in Toronto showcased how quickly his game has grown since he starred for the Gators at the collegiate level just a few years ago. The former SEC Player of the Year displayed patience and shot variety in extended rallies to outlast Alex de Minaur in the quarterfinal and then overpowered Fritz in the semifinal with his signature attacking tennis.Shelton's constantly looking to see where he can gain an edge. The No. 6 seed watches at least one set of film on his next opponent before their matchup. He says film study has been a "huge piece" for him, and admits he may have previously overlooked its importance since he felt he could impose his game on anybody.The young American is also taking in all the input from his father, who had a decorated NCAA coaching career with Georgia Tech and Florida following his playing days.Shelton appreciates Bryan's honesty and the bits of information he provides him during a match. But he also gives his son space in the big moments to play his game."(Shelton) kids around all the time, 'My dad still wants me to come to the net more. My dad still wants me to do certain things.' Some of those things he's still leaving on the table," Bryan said. "I'm gonna continue to push him to make the right decisions that are not necessarily gonna win today, but are gonna help him in the future."It's just having that long-term vision of the player that he really wants to be. I think as (long) he's willing to do the things that are necessary for him to move in that right direction, then I think he'll be more consistent. ... I don't think he's really scratched the surface to (become) the player that he can be."

TORONTO, ONTARIO - AUGUST 07: Ben Shelton of United States celebrates with the trophy after defeating Karen Khachanov during the Singles Final of the National Bank Open Presented by Rogers at Sobeys Stadium on August 07, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario.

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Shelton looks to keep evolving at US Open after 1st Masters 1000 crown

Frances Tiafoe has come close to breaking through at Flushing Meadows.  He went the distance with...

Frances Tiafoe has come close to breaking through at Flushing Meadows.He went the distance with Carlos Alcaraz at the 2022 US Open in a gut-wrenching semifinal defeat that lasted 4 hours and 19 minutes.A year later, the Maryland native fell in the quarterfinals to Ben Shelton, who saved a set point in a decisive third-set tiebreaker.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>But the loss to Taylor Fritz in the 2024 semifinals might haunt Tiafoe most. With the former World No. 10 just two games away from his maiden Grand Slam final, things began to unravel.Trailing 5-4 in the fourth set and up 40-15 on his serve, Tiafoe committed two straight double faults followed by a pair of unforced errors to hand Fritz the break.Struggling with cramps, Tiafoe managed to win just one more game the rest of the way. The 27-year-old admitted post-match that he got ahead of himself, acknowledging that nerves took over as the finish line neared."That still stings, man. Those ones stick with you," Tiafoe told theScore in July at the National Bank Open in Toronto. "I was definitely in the driver's seat, no question. You can argue I could've got up outta there. But again, it's fuel, man. It's sports, man."Not everything is how you want it to go. Being great is how you respond to tough, adverse moments. It teaches you a lot about yourself. So when I get back there and get back in that position, hopefully I'm third-time lucky. ... I'm gonna give everything I got once New York comes."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/cropped_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Tiafoe has spent the last year building toward another shot at his home Slam.He's had a full season working alongside David Witt, who joined the team in July 2024 after a brief five-month coaching stint with Maria Sakkari.Tiafoe had a rocky early hard-court season before scoring surprising success on clay, where he owns a sub-.500 career record. He reached the finals on home soil in Houston, made his first Round of 16 appearance at the Masters 1000 tournament in Madrid, and advanced to his maiden French Open quarterfinals.Alongside compatriot Tommy Paul, Tiafoe became the first American man to make the last eight at Roland Garros since Andre Agassi in 2003.Tiafoe has found a comfort zone with Witt's similar laid-back demeanor. The 2022 WTA Coach of the Year will share stories from his previous partnerships with Venus Williams and Jessica Pegula, offering Tiafoe alternate perspectives on the game.Playing with aggression is one of the biggest things Witt preaches to Tiafoe. That mindset shift was evident during the clay-court season, as the three-time ATP titlist looked more assertive and eager to impose his will on opponents.Tiafoe ranked third in second-serve points won (64%), sixth in aces (37), seventh in winners (188), and eighth in net points won (76%) during this year's French Open.His return numbers improved, too, as he positioned himself closer to the baseline and frequently took the ball early in an attempt to seize control of rallies.Tiafoe sits ninth in second-serve return points won (739), 15th in break points converted (124), and 19th in return games won (22.71%) this season."It's still obviously up and down, but I think it's understanding my game better and better every year," Tiafoe said. "I'm figuring out how to get myself going and understanding that when I'm aggressive and putting pressure on guys, I'm the most dangerous."Tiafoe added, "(Witt's) just trying to get me to commit to playing the right way. Sometimes, I still get into this passive mindset and kind of just put balls in play and not hurt guys. I think sometimes I get vulnerable in those moments."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/cropped_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w220xh124_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w320xh180_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w640xh360_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w768xh432_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w1080xh607_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Tiafoe, left, shares a laugh with Witt during a recent practice session in Toronto. Chicco Nacion/theScore</figcaption></figure>Tiafoe has shown more consistency during the North American summer hard-court swing, winning two matches in each of his US Open tuneup events. Although he has stumbled at times to produce a series of solid results, Tiafoe boasts deep major runs and several big wins.Notably, Tiafoe has beaten both Jannik Sinner and Alcaraz. His last two matches against Alcaraz went five sets, with the Spaniard needing to overcome a two-set-to-one deficit in their latest encounter at Wimbledon last year.While Tiafoe isn't short on self-belief whenever he lines up across the net, he said he knows he has to raise his baseline level of performance when he takes on Sinner and Alcaraz."For me, it's just trying to get my average standard higher," Tiafoe said. "I'm such a big-match player. ... It's easy to play Alcaraz at Center Court of Wimbledon. It's easy to play Alcaraz at semis of the US Open."If you're not gonna bring your best stuff there, you don't deserve it. Played Sinner in the final of Cincinnati (last year). We also played a good match. It's just about getting the standard higher. It gives me a ton of confidence to know I can beat those guys. It's a matter of getting there."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/cropped_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w220xh124_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w320xh180_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w640xh360_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w768xh432_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Shi Tang / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Tiafoe's US Open campaign begins Monday against Yoshihito Nishioka and his path to an elusive major crown will likely require conquering both Sinner and Alcaraz.The two young superstars are beginning to author their own era of dominance as the Big Three's run atop the sport nears its end.Sinner and Alcaraz have hoisted eight of the last nine Grand Slam trophies, including back-to-back major finals against one another.Their epic 5-hour, 29-minute championship match at this year's French Open gave Tiafoe another reminder of the work still needed to keep pace with the duo."They're the pinnacle of the sport right now," Tiafoe said of Sinner and Alcaraz. "If you want to win a Slam - which I do. It's the only thing I really want to do, to be honest with you. I don't really care about the titles I win. ... I just want to win a Slam before I call it a career. You gotta go through them."That gives you a ton of motivation to want to keep getting better. Keep adding things to your game. I think I'm still capable of doing so and beating those guys when it counts in the biggest matches in the world."

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Frances Tiafoe of the United States returns a shot against Taylor Fritz of the United States during their Men's Singles Semifinal match on Day Twelve of the 2024 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 06, 2024 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City.

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'Being great is how you respond': Tiafoe fueled by US Open semifinal loss

Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese returned to the starting lineup for Tuesday's 94-88 defeat agains...

Chicago Sky forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121629" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121629">Angel Reese</a> returned to the starting lineup for Tuesday's 94-88 defeat against the Seattle Storm.Reese had missed the last seven games due to a back injury. She tallied 19 points, seven boards, four assists, and one block in 26 minutes of action, but the Sky's comeback bid fell short. Reese was on a minutes restriction in her first appearance since July 29.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Chicago went 1-6 with the two-time All-Star out of the lineup.Reese was building on her solid rookie campaign prior to being sidelined, averaging 14.2 points, 12.6 boards, 3.7 assists, and 1.5 steals across 23 appearances this season.Her 17 doubles-doubles are tied for the league lead with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18102" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18102">Alyssa Thomas</a>.The Sky are scoring 6.9 more points per 100 possessions with Reese on the floor this season.

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 29: Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky handles the ball against the Washington Mystics at Carefirst Arena on July 29, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Reese scores 19 in return as Sky's comeback vs. Storm falls short

The Indiana Pacers signed head coach Rick Carlisle to a multi-year contract extension, the team a...

The Indiana Pacers signed head coach Rick Carlisle to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.Carlisle rejoined the Pacers for a second head coaching stint in June 2021. He's guided the club to a 157-171 record over the last four seasons, including playoff appearances in each of the previous two campaigns.Indiana reached the East final in 2023-24 and its first Finals in 25 years last season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Since his return to the Pacers in 2021, coach Carlisle has been integral to our success, which includes leading us to consecutive Eastern Conference finals appearances and our first NBA Finals appearance in 25 years," Pacers president of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard said in a statement.Pritchard added, "We are thrilled to have him continue leading our team and representing our organization well into the future."Carlisle went 181-147 during his previous go-around with the Pacers, with the team going as far as the conference finals in 2003-04.The 65-year-old trails only Slick Leonard on the franchise's all-time wins list.Carlisle's other head coaching stops include the Detroit Pistons and Dallas Mavericks. He won Coach of the Year honors in 2002 and guided the Mavericks to their lone NBA title in 2011.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - JUNE 08: Head coach Rick Carlisle of the Indiana Pacers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Two of the 2025 NBA Finals at Paycom Center on June 08, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Pacers sign Carlisle to multi-year contract extension

There's an undeniable buzz around the US Open's revamped mixed doubles event.  Several of the wor...

There's an undeniable buzz around the US Open's revamped mixed doubles event.Several of the world's top men's and women's singles players are among the 16 pairings that will battle for a major title and $1-million prize. Eight teams received a direct entry into the draw based on their combined singles ranking, while the other eight duos were granted wild cards.Frances Tiafoe is among the stars who will take part in the competition, which is slated for Aug. 19-20 at Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium during US Open Fan Week.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Tiafoe is teaming up with good friend Madison Keys. He expressed respect for the specialists who usually make up the bracket, but he believes the participation of so many notable singles players will have a "monumental" impact on the profile of mixed doubles tennis."We're gonna put asses in the seats, man," Tiafoe told theScore. "The fans want to watch people they know and who they see play in singles, even though we don't play doubles as great as the doubles guys. We gotta give those doubles guys respect. They play quality doubles because that's what they do. Same thing with us in singles. ..."You're going to be glued watching every match because you've just got names on names. So if I'm a regular average tennis fan, I get to see (Carlos) Alcaraz before the (singles) tournament. I get to see (Jannik) Sinner ... (Taylor) Fritz, (Elena) Rybakina, (Jessica) Pegula. It's gonna be sick."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/cropped_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w220xh124_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w320xh180_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w640xh360_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w768xh432_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Andy Cheung / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Moving the mixed doubles competition to the first week of the tournament rather than its usual second week appealed to many singles players, including Holger Rune, who'll play alongside Wimbledon runner-up Amanda Anisimova."It's usually where you need more rest than playing," Rune said. "I think it's a fun idea to do it in the preparation week."Competitors who advance to the semifinals and final will get at least four days of rest before singles play starts in Flushing Meadows. The mixed doubles tournament won't be as physically taxing, either. Every match leading up to the final will be a best-of-three sets played to four games with no-ad scoring, tiebreakers at four-all, and a 10-point match tiebreaker instead of a third set. The championship matchup will consist of sets maxing out at six games and tiebreakers at six-all, but the rest of the format will stay the same.Ben Shelton was unsure if he'd throw his hat in the ring given all his pre-tournament responsibilities. But the rising star was ultimately drawn in by all the marquee singles players who'd committed.Shelton will reunite with World No. 1 doubles player Taylor Townsend. The all-American tandem initially joined forces at the 2023 US Open, making a run to the mixed doubles semifinals in their original format."She's the best female doubles player in the world. She's the best mixed doubles player in the world, in my opinion," Shelton said. "I was lucky to get her as a partner. I don't know if anyone else talked to her. She told me that the only person she would play with is me, and I told her that the only person I would play with is her."Alex de Minaur lobbied for one of two remaining wild cards after the initial 14 mixed doubles teams were revealed, but was ultimately unsuccessful in his bid to get into the bracket.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Katie and I would like to ask for a WC pretty pretty please 🙏😢 <a href="https://t.co/wLwPfKQjAa">https://t.co/wLwPfKQjAa</a>— Alex de Minaur (@alexdeminaur) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexdeminaur/status/1950367262608941170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The five-time major quarterfinalist was hoping to have the rare opportunity of playing alongside his fianceé, Katie Boulter.The Hopman Cup, United Cup, and Summer Olympics are the only events outside of the Grand Slams that have a mixed doubles component. However, De Minaur and Boulter can't team up in any of those competitions because they hail from different countries.In their lone tournament as a mixed doubles pair at Wimbledon in 2023, they received a wild card and defeated Aussie duo John Peers and Storm Hunter in their opening match before falling in the second round."One of the most enjoyable moments I've had on a tennis court was playing Wimbledon mixed doubles with her. It was pretty damn cool," De Minaur said. "So I would love to go back and play again. And to play such an exciting event with the world's best tennis players would be pretty cool."Not every team has an extensive history. Two-time French Open finalist Casper Ruud was pleasantly surprised when Iga Swiatek reached out to see if he'd be interested in partnering up.They were on opposite sides of a memorable mixed doubles tilt at the United Cup in December. With Ruud and Norway leading 4-3 in the 10-point match tiebreaker, Swiatek leveled the score for Poland with a wicked cross-court forehand winner to cap an extended rally.The six-time Slam winner's heroics were pivotal as Poland eventually completed the comeback.When Swiatek and Ruud met at the net for a postmatch handshake, she expressed admiration for his forehand."There's this rally … in the match tiebreaker where we're rallying forehands cross court and she ends up beating me, which shows how good she is from the baseline," Ruud recalls. "I think from there it was just a really fun match and maybe she remembered that. ... I was happy to say yes."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEN3qQdoqt-/?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/reel/DEN3qQdoqt-/?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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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure>The ATP stars' excitement for the new-look US Open mixed doubles championships is evident. But make no mistake: many of them are aiming to be the last team standing.Taylor Fritz captured the Eisenhower Cup - a mixed doubles exhibition event - with Elena Rybakina at Indian Wells in March and is intent on another win."I think everyone's going to be really serious, to be honest," Fritz said.He added, "We're not showing up there to mess around. I can't speak for everyone, but I know Elena and myself are definitely there to win."Tiafoe's got his eyes on the cash prize and doesn't want to give his opponents any bulletin-board material."(Keys and I) need to get our shit together," Tiafoe said. "We need to figure out this mixed (doubles), man. I'm trying to get to the money, and so we've been trash-talking ourselves."I think everyone is gonna try hard. There's a lot of money being moved around for this thing. This is serious. I'm not talking shit ... but I definitely want to get paid for sure."

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA - SEPTEMBER 24: Ben Shelton of Team World and Frances Tiafoe of Team World react to match point in their doubles match after defeating Andrey Rublev of Team Europe and Hubert Hurkacz of Team Europe to win the Laver Cup for Team World during day three of the Laver Cup at Rogers Arena on September 24, 2023 in Vancouver, British Columbia.

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Los Angeles Lakers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> sustained a right knee contusion Saturday in the second half of Slovenia's EuroBasket exhibition game against Latvia, sources told NBA insider <a href="https://x.com/TheSteinLine/status/1956794051925029045">Marc Stein</a>.Slovenia's basketball federation later <a href="https://x.com/kzs_si/status/1957073269900616071">stated</a> that Doncic will be back for Monday's team practice, suggesting the ailment is minor.Doncic collided awkwardly with a teammate and immediately grabbed his right knee, but was able to walk to the locker room under his own power.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Here was the play <a href="https://t.co/E4vZRmmKfZ">pic.twitter.com/E4vZRmmKfZ</a>— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanWoikeSports/status/1956761173317292539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Doncic is among a handful of NBA stars who have committed to playing for their countries at EuroBasket, which runs Aug. 27-Sept. 14.Los Angeles recently signed Doncic to a three-year, $165-million contract extension that includes a player option for the 2028-29 campaign.The five-time All-Star averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.6 steals across 28 appearances for the Lakers last season.

LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA - AUGUST 8: Luka Doncic of Slovenia reacts during the international basketball friendly match between Slovenia and Germany at Dvorana Stozice, on August 8, 2025 in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

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The Brooklyn Nets acquired forward Haywood Highsmith and a 2032 second-round draft pick from the ...

The Brooklyn Nets acquired forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/83958" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/83958">Haywood Highsmith</a> and a 2032 second-round draft pick from the Miami Heat in exchange for a 2026 second-rounder that's protected from the 31st overall pick to the 55th selection, the Nets announced Friday.Highsmith spent the last four seasons with the Heat, averaging 5.5 points and shooting 37.5% from deep across 213 appearances, including 80 starts. The 6-foot-7 forward developed into a solid defender under Miami head coach Erik Spoelstra.Highsmith recently underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. He's expected to miss 8-10 weeks, which could put him in danger of missing the Nets' season opener.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Highsmith is entering the final season of a two-year, $10.8-million contract. The move puts the Heat $4 million below the luxury tax and $9.5 million under the first-apron hard cap, according to <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1956432251899482185">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.Meanwhile, Brooklyn is now $22 million under the salary cap and has until Oct. 21 to reach 90% of the salary cap, adds <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1956431679498661921">Marks</a>.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 18: Haywood Highsmith #24 of the Miami Heat reacts after their 123-114 win over the Atlanta Hawks in overtime during an NBA play-in tournament game on April 18, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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The Milwaukee Bucks agreed to a one-year contract with free-agent forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52826" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52826">Amir Coffey</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1956079795638345949">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The two sides came to terms on a training-camp deal, according to T<a href="https://x.com/eric_nehm/status/1956082782658289978">he Athletic's Eric Nehm</a>.Coffey spent his first six NBA seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he carved out a key bench role, as well as started 67 games.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 28-year-old averaged a career-high 9.7 points and shot 40.9% from beyond the arc across 72 appearances last season.Milwaukee led the NBA in 3-point percentage (38.7%) and ranked eighth in threes per game (14.2) during the 2024-25 campaign.Coffey gives the Bucks an experienced forward behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37799">Kyle Kuzma</a> who can also slot in at the two.

INGLEWOOD, CA - MARCH 21: Amir Coffey #7 of the LA Clippers looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 21, 2025 at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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