San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich confirmed Thursday he will not return to the bench this se...

<p>San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich confirmed Thursday he will not return to the bench this season as he continues to recover from a stroke suffered in November.</p><p>The 76-year-old said he hopes to eventually resume his coaching career.</p><p>"I've decided not to return to the sidelines this season," he said in a <a href="https://www.nba.com/spurs/news/statement-from-san-antonio-spurs-head-coach-gregg-popovich">statement</a> Thursday. "Mitch Johnson and his staff have done a wonderful job and the resolve and professionalism the players have shown, sticking together during a challenging season, has been outstanding.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I will continue to focus on my health with the hope that I can return to coaching in the future."</p><p>Popovich informed the team of his decision Thursday during an emotional, in-person meeting, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1895191071157522682">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. It was the Hall of Fame coach's first visit to the Spurs since suffering a mild stroke Nov. 2.</p><p>Popovich, who also serves as president of basketball operations, has manned the Spurs' bench for 29 consecutive seasons - the longest stretch of any active head coach. He signed a five-year extension in July 2023 that ties him to the franchise through 2027-28.</p><p>The Spurs said in November that Popovich is expected to make a full recovery. However, his NBA future was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3224252" href="https://thescore.com/news/3224252">reported</a> as uncertain Saturday as he continues to recuperate from the stroke.</p><p>The five-time NBA champion owns the record for most coaching wins with 1,412 to date, though that number includes 22 victories from Johnson's interim stint this season. Popovich had already amassed 1,388 career wins before stepping away Nov. 2, increasing the distance between him and Don Nelson (1,335), who he overtook in March 2022.</p>

San Antonio TX, - October 19, 2024: Head Coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the Spurs Open Scrimmage on October 19, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Popovich won't return to Spurs this season, hopes to coach in future

The Minnesota Timberwolves are promoting rookie guard Jaylen Clark from a two-way contract to a s...

<p>The Minnesota Timberwolves are promoting rookie guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110282" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110282">Jaylen Clark</a> from a two-way contract to a standard, fully guaranteed two-year deal, Clark's agent told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1894820366666608968">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Minnesota will then sign free-agent guard Bones Hyland into its open two-way contract slot, <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1894820805801902347">Charania</a> adds, citing Hyland's agent.</p><p>Clark, the 53rd overall pick in 2023, played himself into the Timberwolves' rotation over the last month, averaging 6.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 13 consecutive games while playing 19.8 minutes. In that same stretch, he shot 44% from three on 2.1 attempts per game and impressed with his defense.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Clark scored a season-high 17 points in just under 19 minutes against the Houston Rockets on Feb. 6, shooting 4-of-6 from distance as part of a 13-point Minnesota win.</p><p>Before his games-played streak began Jan. 29, the UCLA product only made four previous appearances this season for a total of 10 minutes earlier in January. He did not play in 2023-24 while recovering from a torn Achilles he sustained in his final regular-season appearance in college.</p><p>Hyland, 24, opened the season with the Los Angeles Clippers, but the Atlanta Hawks waived him after he was traded along with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44950" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44950">Terance Mann</a> for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37602" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37602">Bogdan Bogdanovic</a> at the deadline. He played just 71 games over two-and-a-half years in L.A., averaging 7.8 points.</p><p>Hyland was drafted 26th overall by the Denver Nuggets in 2021 and scored 10.1 points per game as a rookie. In Minnesota, he reunites with president of basketball operations Tim Connelly, who was in charge of the Nuggets' front office when the team selected Hyland.</p>

ORLANDO, FL - JANUARY 9: Jaylen Clark #22 of the Minnesota Timberwolves smiles before the game against the Orlando Magic on January 9, 2025 at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Wolves converting Clark to standard deal, signing Hyland to 2-way contract

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum believes he's overlooked in conversations about the NBA's best p...

<p>Boston Celtics star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> believes he's overlooked in conversations about the NBA's best players. </p><p>"Honestly, no," Tatum told <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/02/25/jayson-tatum-boston-celtics-nba-stars/?pwapi_token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJyZWFzb24iOiJnaWZ0IiwibmJmIjoxNzQwNDU5NjAwLCJpc3MiOiJzdWJzY3JpcHRpb25zIiwiZXhwIjoxNzQxODM4Mzk5LCJpYXQiOjE3NDA0NTk2MDAsImp0aSI6IjYxZDhlMTdiLWQ0MzctNDdmOS04NGFiLWQ0MjMyMWQ3OGU1OSIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lndhc2hpbmd0b25wb3N0LmNvbS9zcG9ydHMvMjAyNS8wMi8yNS9qYXlzb24tdGF0dW0tYm9zdG9uLWNlbHRpY3MtbmJhLXN0YXJzLyJ9._q0AtPrGD20xb7jMHjuOImlQ_uMu8hqjv0d4qIPT_fM&amp;itid=gfta">The Washington Post's Michael Lee</a> when asked if he felt adequately appreciated.</p><p>"If you took the name and the face away from all my accomplishments and you're just like, 'This is what this Player A accomplished at 26,' people would talk about (me) a lot differently."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The forward has been a fixture in the MVP conversation but has yet to win the honor. He's had plenty of postseason success, too: Tatum made the playoffs in all eight of his NBA seasons, reaching the Eastern Conference finals in five of them (winning the series' inaugural MVP award in 2022) and competing in two Finals, capturing his first title in his second appearance last June.</p><p>Tatum believes his growing list of accolades - a championship, six All-Star selections, four All-NBA nominations, and back-to-back Olympic gold medals with the United States - are enough to make him the face of the league.</p><p>But the former third overall pick has no interest in making his own case.</p><p>"I don't really want to insert myself in things that can be debated," he said. "Did he win a championship? Yes. Did he win gold medals? Yes. Was he always a part of winning seasons? Was he first-team All-NBA? Those are things that you know are hard evidence. Yes or no.</p><p>"Face of the NBA? They can always debate. But it's like, I check off all the boxes."</p><p>Tatum is putting up 26.8 points per game this year, virtually identical to his scoring output in the 2023-24 regular season before Boston's 16-3 playoff run to the title. Though slightly below his career-high 30.1-point average in 2022-23, the Duke product is tallying personal bests in rebounding (8.8 per game) and assists (5.7). His effort is helping the Celtics stay competitive with the Cleveland Cavaliers for first place in the Eastern Conference.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 25: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 25, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Tatum: I don't get enough recognition for my career achievements

Chris Finch isn't a fan of the Oklahoma City Thunder's playstyle.  The Minnesota Timberwolves hea...

<p>Chris Finch isn't a fan of the Oklahoma City Thunder's playstyle.</p><p>The Minnesota Timberwolves head coach called out the Thunder following his team's 25-point comeback win Monday, taking issue with what he perceived as constant fouling and an ostensibly favorable whistle for All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>.</p><p>"It's so frustrating to play this team because they foul a ton. They really do," Finch told <a href="https://x.com/ohnohedidnt24/status/1894247794107461772">reporters</a> after the 131-128 overtime victory. "They foul all the time. And you can't really touch Shai. It's a very frustrating thing, and it takes a lot of mental toughness to try to play through it.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Eventually, we were able to get downhill and force the issue ourselves and were rewarded for it."</p><p>Minnesota was called for 11 fouls in Monday's first half compared to just six for Oklahoma City, leading to a 14-7 advantage in free-throw attempts and a 19-point lead for the Thunder. However, the momentum swung entirely in the Timberwolves' favor after the break; Finch's squad went 21-of-24 from the line in the second half and committed just nine personal fouls, while the Thunder were whistled for 19 and shot 9-of-12 on free throws.</p><p>That edge carried into overtime too. Minnesota was perfect in eight trips to the line in the final frame, during which Mark Daigneault's squad was just 3-of-3. Six of those Wolves free throws were in the final 62 seconds alone, with only the final two by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60881" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60881">Nickeil Alexander-Walker</a> due to an intentional foul.</p><p>The Timberwolves' 39 free throws Monday are the most they've attempted in any game this season, overtaking their 34 against the Dallas Mavericks on Jan. 22. It's also tied for their fifth most in any game since Finch took over as head coach in February 2021.</p><p>Monday's encounter between the two teams was their second in consecutive nights and their third meeting in February alone. They split their regular-season series 2-2. They'd face each other again in the first round of the playoffs if the Thunder maintain their grip on first place and the No. 7 Timberwolves emerge from the play-in tournament as the eighth seed.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - JANUARY 29: Chris Finch of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts to a foul call during the second half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on January 29, 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Wolves' Finch: Thunder foul constantly, but 'you can't really touch Shai'

Utah fired men's basketball head coach Craig Smith amid his fourth season with the program, the s...

<p>Utah fired men's basketball head coach Craig Smith amid his fourth season with the program, the school announced Monday.</p><p>The Utes are 7-9 in the Big 12 and have just four regular season games remaining. Assistant Josh Eilert will serve as head coach for those contests on an interim basis.</p><p>"After evaluating our program under Craig's leadership, I believe a change is needed to get us to where we want to go," Utes athletic director Mark Harlan said in a <a href="https://utahutes.com/news/2025/2/24/mens-basketball-change-in-leadership-of-utah-mens-basketball-program-announced-by-mark-harlan.aspx">statement</a>. "The time is now to begin that process, and we will surround coach Eilert, the staff and our student-athletes with support as they continue with their season."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 52-year-old went 65-62 in just under four seasons with Utah - the first three spent in the Pac-12 before joining the Big 12 for 2024-25 - but didn't make an NCAA Tournament appearance.</p><p>Smith joined the Utes ahead of 2021-22 after three seasons at Utah State, during which he took the Aggies to two NCAA Tournaments. They would have also earned a berth in the 2020 edition as Mountain West Tournament champions, but it was canceled because of COVID.</p><p>Utah pulled off back-to-back wins over Kansas and Kansas State earlier this month before a four-point loss Sunday to UCF. The Utes face 22nd-ranked Arizona in their next game Wednesday.</p>

CINCINNATI, OH - FEBRUARY 11: Utah Utes head coach Craig Smith looks on during a college basketball game against the Cincinnati Bearcats on February 11, 2025 at Fifth Third Arena in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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Utah fires men's basketball coach Craig Smith

San Antonio Spurs head coach and team president Gregg Popovich is not expected to return to the t...

<p>San Antonio Spurs head coach and team president Gregg Popovich is not expected to return to the team this season after suffering a mild stroke in November, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1893463816710640087">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Popovich's future with the organization is also reportedly uncertain as he continues to recover.</p><p>The Hall of Famer, 76, was on San Antonio's sideline for just the first five games of the season before having to step away Nov. 2 because of a medical issue. The team later revealed the coach had a mild stroke but said he was expected to make a full recovery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Popovich later issued his first public statement on the matter Dec. 16, expressing gratitude for an outpouring of support around the NBA.</p><p>Assistant Mitch Johnson has assumed head-coaching duties on an interim basis in Popovich's absence.</p><p>Popovich boasts the NBA record for most regular-season wins by a head coach with 1,412 - all of which were with the Spurs. A three-time Coach of the Year, he's won five NBA titles throughout 29 seasons in San Antonio, the most by any active head coach and tied with John Kundla and Pat Riley for third all time.</p><p>The Spurs are already without All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> for the rest of 2024-25. The 7-foot-3 forward was diagnosed with a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3222033" href="https://thescore.com/news/3222033">blood clot</a> in his right shoulder Thursday after returning from the All-Star break.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 17: Head coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs looks on against the Houston Rockets during the first half of a preseason game at Toyota Center on October 17, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Report: Popovich not expected to return to Spurs this season

LeBron James missed back-to-back 3-point attempts that would've likely forced overtime as the Cha...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> missed back-to-back 3-point attempts that would've likely forced overtime as the Charlotte Hornets escaped with a 100-97 road win over the Los Angeles Lakers Wednesday.</p><p>James, who started after missing Sunday's All-Star Game due to left ankle and foot discomfort, had a deep but clear look off an inbound pass from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> with five seconds remaining, but his shot clanked off the front of the rim. An offensive rebound by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/38557" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/38557">Gabe Vincent</a> allowed James to get off another attempt over a sprawling <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53740">Miles Bridges</a>. However, that shot also came up short as the buzzer sounded.</p><p>The loss is the Lakers' second straight against a team sitting second-last in its conference after falling 131-119 on the road to the Utah Jazz on Feb. 12 in their final matchup before the All-Star break.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Overall, we played 39-44 minutes of pretty poor offense," head coach JJ Redick said about Wednesday's loss, according to <a href="https://x.com/DanWoikeSports/status/1892447993930129538">Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times</a>.</p><p>Los Angeles upgraded James' status to available about two hours prior to tipoff after listing him as questionable earlier in the day. He finished with 26 points, 11 assists, seven rebounds, two blocks, and a steal in 38 minutes. He shot 10-of-22 from the floor but 4-of-11 from three.</p><p>Bridges led Charlotte with 29 points and five steals to go with six rebounds. LaMelo Ball added 27 points, including the game-sealing layup that gave the Hornets a four-point lead with 14 seconds left.</p><p>The 40-year-old James played in the Lakers' final two games leading into the break but unexpectedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3219717" href="https://thescore.com/news/3219717">announced</a> ahead of Sunday's All-Star Game that he wouldn't participate in order to rest.</p><p>"With 30 games left and us trying to make a push in the wild, wild West, I feel like it is very important for me to kind of take care of myself and understand what's coming on," he said Sunday.</p><p>James entered Wednesday averaging 24.3 points, 9.0 assists, and 7.7 rebounds with 51.6/39.5/75.9 shooting splits. In his record 22nd NBA season, he's made 49 starts for L.A. and missed just four contests.</p><p>Los Angeles also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3221447" href="https://thescore.com/news/3221447">lifted</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>'s minutes restriction Wednesday, allowing him to play a more customary 33 minutes. He averaged nearly 36 minutes this season with the Dallas Mavericks, but the Lakers held him to just over 23 in each of his first two contests with the club after he missed nearly seven weeks with a calf strain.</p><p>The Slovenian star finished two assists shy of a 14-point triple-double Wednesday but was 1-of-9 from distance and committed six turnovers - five in the first quarter.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 19: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Charlotte Hornets on February 19, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena 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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LeBron misses 2 game-tying threes in return vs. Hornets after sitting out ASG

Hall of Famer and former Miami Heat guard Tim Hardaway Sr. sharply rebuked Jimmy Butler for the w...

<p>Hall of Famer and former Miami Heat guard Tim Hardaway Sr. sharply rebuked <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> for the way he forced his way out of Miami after failing to secure an extension.</p><p>"I didn't agree with what he was doing. You're under contract. You're a baby. You're a crybaby because they said 'No' to you," Hardaway said Tuesday on <a href="https://x.com/SiriusXMNBA/status/1891897018148094267">SiriusXM NBA Radio</a>. "We used to get said 'No' to us all the time and we used to know how to take it. It is what it is. It's a question, you get a yes or a no. You might not like the (answer), but you can't deviate and mess up the team."</p><p>Hardaway, who was traded from the Warriors to the Heat midseason in 1995-96, played 367 games over five-and-a-half years with Miami - similar to the 316 Butler totaled in the same time span.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 58-year-old argued Butler and the Heat could have avoided having to go through the play-in tournament in both years they went to the Finals (2020 and 2023) had the veteran wing played more regular-season contests; Butler played in 58 of 73 games in 2019-20 and 64 of 82 in 2022-23.</p><p>"That takes a lot out of you," he said. "They want to say, 'Look, we want a week off. We want a week to prepare, and we need that week because we play hard each and every game and we need to rest.' So, he wasn't willing to do that."</p><p>A three-time All-NBA selection with the Heat in the mid- to late 1990s, Hardaway played under head coach Pat Riley, who now runs basketball operations as team president. However, Hardaway suggested the fellow Hall of Famer didn't discipline Butler enough prior to the three suspensions after his trade demand, citing a tense <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InhYxQj-4vc">exchange</a> during a timeout last season involving head coach Erik Spoelstra and team legend Udonis Haslem.</p><p>"I fault them for letting him get away with a bunch of stuff, too," Hardaway said. "You know, you gotta nip it in the bud. When he went after Spoelstra, told Spoelstra he'd kick his butt at a timeout, and they had to take another timeout because Udonis Haslem was circling around - that should have been like, 'Yo, you're getting three to five games.'</p><p>"You don't talk to the coach like that. You don't disrespect the coach like that."</p><p>Since arriving in Golden State, Butler is averaging 21.3 points, seven rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.3 steals in four games. He played 25 games in the first half of the season with Miami, during which he put up 17 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 08: Jimmy Butler #10 of the Golden State Warriors reacts against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center on February 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Hardaway Sr.: Butler a 'crybaby' for forcing Heat trade

Tyler Herro doesn't believe the Miami Heat, as currently constructed, are built for a deep playof...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> doesn't believe the Miami Heat, as currently constructed, are built for a deep playoff run this spring.</p><p>"It's hard to do. I don't think people realize how hard it is to win a championship, and everything has to fall in line," he said Tuesday on <a href="https://x.com/SiriusXMNBA/status/1891970952780710368">SiriusXM NBA Radio</a>. "I think, right now, we started the season with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy (Butler)</a> saying we're going to try to win a championship. I think, obviously, if we're calling a spade a spade, we're not contenders right now."</p><p>However, the new <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3219269" href="https://thescore.com/news/3219269">Three-Point Contest champ</a> is optimistic the team's up-and-comers will help the franchise return to the level of contention it grew accustomed to after two Finals appearances in the past five seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"But I think with the team that we're trying to put together, we have a lot of young guys that can really help us win," Herro added. "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121675" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121675">Kel'el Ware</a>'s coming into his own, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102766" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102766">Niko Jovic</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110252" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110252">(Jaime) Jaquez</a> - so I think we have a lot of young guys that are starting to really see where their role can be with the new roster we have."</p><p>Butler was one of Miami's longest-tenured players before he was shipped to the Golden State Warriors ahead of the Feb. 6 trade deadline. The 35-year-old demanded a trade after failing to reach an agreement on an extension, bringing a dramatic end to his five-and-a-half-year stint in South Beach.</p><p>The six-time All-Star was crucial in the Heat's two recent trips to the Finals. He averaged 22.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, six assists, and two steals through 21 games in 2020 when they fell to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Orlando bubble. He again led the team in scoring in the 2023 postseason, averaging 26.9 points in 22 games that included its Finals loss to the Denver Nuggets.</p><p>To Herro's point, the Heat appears to have found a diamond in the rough with Ware, the 15th overall pick in the 2024 draft. The 7-foot center played sparingly early in the regular season but has since become a mainstay in the rotation, averaging 11.9 points, eight rebounds, and 1.3 blocks while shooting 53.6/37.3/75 in 23 games (12 starts) since Jan. 1.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - FEBRUARY 12: Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat handles the ball during the second half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on February 12, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Herro: Heat aren't contenders right now

The NBA All-Star Game got underway Sunday in San Francisco with a new format highlighted by a fou...

<p>The NBA All-Star Game got underway Sunday in San Francisco with a new format highlighted by a four-team mini tournament featuring three squads composed of All-Stars and the winning team from Friday's Rising Stars Challenge.</p><p>For more on the format and the teams competing in Sunday's marquee event, click <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3199428" href="https://thescore.com/news/3199428">here</a>.</p><h3>Final</h3><p><strong>Shaq's OGs 41, Chuck's Global Stars 25</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> dropped 15 points and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> scored 12 as Shaq's OGs ran away late against Chuck's Global Stars to win the 2025 All-Star Game.</p><p>Curry opened the final with a running three, which was followed by eight straight points from Jayson Tatum for an 11-0 run to start the game for Team Shaq. Tatum also had the game-winning bucket, throwing down a two-handed dunk after cutting behind the Global Stars' defense to catch an over-the-top lob from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>.</p><p>Curry was named All-Star Game MVP for the second time in his 16-year career. Playing in front of his home crowd in San Francisco's Chase Center, the Golden State Warriors guard scored a combined 20 points in both games Sunday with 10 rebounds.</p><p>San Antonio Spurs phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> led the Global Stars with 11 points on 5-of-7 shooting. The 7-foot-3 forward also had the only block of the encounter.</p><h3>Semifinal 2</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770915/cropped_GettyImages-2199458043.jpg?ts=1739760674" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770915/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199458043.jpg?ts=1739760674 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770915/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199458043.jpg?ts=1739760674 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770915/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199458043.jpg?ts=1739760674 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770915/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199458043.jpg?ts=1739760674 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770915/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199458043.jpg?ts=1739760674 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Logan Riely / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Shaq's OGs 42, Candace's Rising Stars 35</strong></p><p>Candace Parker's Rising Stars pushed a star-studded Shaq's OGs squad to its limit but fell short. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> scored nine points, including the game-winning trey, as Shaquille O'Neal's contingent averted disaster to punch its ticket to the All-Star Game final against Chuck's Global Stars.</p><p>The Rising Stars, who earned a spot by winning their own mini tournament Friday, matched Lillard and Co. pace-for-pace until <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a>'s run of eight consecutive points made it 34-28 for Shaq's OGs. However, O'Neal's side went cold after getting to within three points of the target score of 40, and the youngsters mounted a minor rally that was interrupted by a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> dunk before Lillard's pull-up three put them away.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> was slated to start for O'Neal's squad, but the 21-time All-Star unexpectedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3219717" href="https://thescore.com/news/3219717">announced</a> hours before the event that he wouldn't play because of ankle and foot soreness.</p><h3>Semifinal 1</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770898/cropped_GettyImages-2199450965.jpg?ts=1739757463" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770898/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199450965.jpg?ts=1739757463 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770898/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199450965.jpg?ts=1739757463 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770898/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199450965.jpg?ts=1739757463 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770898/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199450965.jpg?ts=1739757463 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770898/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199450965.jpg?ts=1739757463 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Nathaniel S. Butler / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Chuck's Global Stars 41, Kenny's Young Stars 32 </strong></p><p>Despite having his Oklahoma City Thunder teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a>, Kenny's Young Stars had no answer for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>, who led all scorers with 12 points to take Chuck's Global Stars to the final. Gilgeous-Alexander drilled both his 3-point attempts and shot a perfect 5-of-5 to lead his side to victory in Sunday's curtain-raiser.</p><p>Wembanyama also wasted little time in leaving an impact in his All-Star debut. The towering Frenchman was responsible for some standout highlights in Game 1, including a stellar block from behind on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> and throwing down an alley-oop from reigning MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>.</p><p>Anthony Edwards, who was on the Young Stars roster but didn't play, told reporters he was held out because of a groin injury, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/ByTimReynolds/status/1891308325079245017">Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press</a>. The Minnesota Timberwolves star was also battling a cold, a source told <a href="https://twitter.com/MarcJSpears/status/1891310890714067070">ESPN's Marc J. Spears</a>.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - FEBRUARY 16: Stephen Curry #30 of Team Shaq dribbles the ball against Nikola Jokic #15 of Team Chuck during the 74th NBA All-Star Game as part of NBA All-Star Weekend on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, 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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NBA All-Star Game: Curry, Tatum carry Team Shaq to ASG victory

Giannis Antetokounmpo believes the best possible remodeling of the All-Star Game involves the NBA...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> believes the best possible remodeling of the All-Star Game involves the NBA pitting its best American players against its top international stars.</p><p>"I would love that," the Bucks forward said Sunday when asked about a "USA vs. World" format for the midseason event, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/VinceGoodwill/status/1891276773280624774">Vincent Goodwill of Yahoo Sports</a>. "I think that would be the most interesting, exciting format.</p><p>"That would give me extra juice to compete."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Antetokounmpo, who was voted an All-Star starter but will not play in Sunday's tournament-style edition because of a calf injury, also voiced his support for another idea to improve the exhibition's competitive spirit. When asked about the All-Star Game being played overseas, the Greek star was on board and rattled off a few international suggestions.</p><p>"That would be really, really fun," he said, per <a href="https://x.com/957thegame/status/1891281231137984779">95.7 The Game</a>. "Having a game, like in the U.K. or the game in Paris ... Greece is obviously a small country, but why not?</p><p>"Having a game in China ... all the stars go there for a weekend and play the game, that would be fun. And I think it would bring more attention to the game, more fun."</p><p>The NBA's All-Star Game has drawn persistent criticism regarding players' lack of competitiveness, spurring the league to implement multiple changes in recent seasons. In 2018, the league allowed the leading vote-getters to draft their teammates but abandoned that format in 2024 to return to the traditional East vs. West style. It's also experimented with target scores, requiring teams to score a specific amount of points to win as opposed to a traditional timed contest.</p><p>However, Antetokounmpo argued no format tweak will produce increased competition if a player's desire isn't there.</p><p>"Everybody's a grown man," he said, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/VinceGoodwill/status/1891277984864076275">Goodwill</a>. "You cannot force anyone to play hard if they don't want to."</p>

MILWAUKEE, WI - OCTOBER 14: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks smiles during the game against the Chicago Bulls on October 14, 2024 at Fiserv Forum Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE .

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Giannis: USA vs. World in ASG 'would give me extra juice to compete'

Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro scored 24 points in the final round to win the 2025 Three-Point Cont...

<p>Miami Heat guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> scored 24 points in the final round to win the 2025 Three-Point Contest on Saturday at All-Star Weekend in San Francisco.</p><p>Golden State Warriors guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24735" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24735">Buddy Hield</a> nearly overtook Herro with his last rack but missed his second-last moneyball to finish one point short with 23.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGHg3vaMeya/?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/DGHg3vaMeya/?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><p><strong>Final round</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Score</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Tyler Herro</td>
<td>Miami Heat</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Darius Garland</td>
<td>Cleveland Cavaliers</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Buddy Hield</td>
<td>Golden State Warriors</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard, who was chasing a three-peat as Three-Point Contest champion, was eliminated after an 18-point first round. That left him one shy of matching Herro's opening total, which sent the Heat guard through to the final round with the third-best score.</p><p><strong>First round</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Score</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cam Johnson</td>
<td>Brooklyn Nets</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Darius Garland</td>
<td>Cleveland Cavaliers</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Cunningham</td>
<td>Detroit Pistons</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Norman Powell</td>
<td>Los Angeles Clippers</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyler Herro</td>
<td>Miami Heat</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>New York Knicks</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Buddy Hield</td>
<td>Golden State Warriors</td>
<td>31</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Damian Lillard</td>
<td>Milwaukee Bucks</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Hield's first total of 31 tied Warriors teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> and Indiana Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> for the highest single-round score ever in the Three-Point Contest. Curry and Haliburton totaled 31 out of 40 points in 2021 and 2023, respectively.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 15: Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat poses with the trophy after winning the 2025 Starry 3-Point Contest as part of the State Farm All-Star Saturday Night at Chase Center on February 15, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Herro edges Hield, Garland to capture Three-Point Contest

San Antonio Spurs rookie Stephon Castle scored 12 points as Team C defeated Jeremy Lin's Team G L...

<p>San Antonio Spurs rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121685" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121685">Stephon Castle</a> scored 12 points as Team C defeated Jeremy Lin's Team G League to win the 2025 Rising Stars championship.</p><p>Castle was also named the MVP of Friday's event.</p><p>As winners of the competition, Team C - coached by Chris Mullin - will play Sunday as the fourth team in the NBA's new All-Star tournament format. Candace Parker will replace Mullin as head coach of the Rising Stars squad, which will face Shaquille O'Neal's squad featuring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>, and several other veteran stars in the semifinal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Utah Jazz guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110288" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110288">Keyonte George</a> scored the winning bucket Friday, a catch-and-shoot three assisted by Castle that took Mullin's squad to 25 points, the target score in the championship game.</p><p>Team C defeated Tim Hardaway Sr.'s Team T in its opening matchup to advance to Friday's finale, while the G Leaguers stunned Team M, which was coached by Mitch Richmond. The semifinal's target score was 40 rather than 25.</p><p>Along with Castle and George, the Rising Stars winners also featured Memphis Grizzlies rookies <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121734" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121734">Jaylen Wells</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121683" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121683">Zach Edey</a>, Phoenix Suns wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121680" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121680">Ryan Dunn</a>, Los Angeles Lakers sharpshooter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121679" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121679">Dalton Knecht</a>, and Golden State Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110259" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110259">Trayce Jackson-Davis</a>.</p><p>Parker said she's also adding Houston Rockets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110271" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110271">Amen Thompson</a> to her roster Sunday, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/danielle_lerner/status/1890618889609830418">Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle</a>. Thompson was on Team M alongside his twin brother <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110235" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110235">Ausar Thompson</a>.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - FEBRUARY 14: Stephon Castle #5 of Team C drives to the basket during the game against Team G League during the Castrol Rising Stars Game as part of NBA All-Star Weekend on Friday, February 14, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, 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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Castle leads Mullin's team over G Leaguers to win Rising Stars

The 2008 Team USA "Redeem Team" was announced Friday as one of 17 finalists to join the Basketbal...

<p>The 2008 Team USA "Redeem Team" was <a href="https://www.hoophall.com/news/naismith-basketball-hall-of-fame-announces-17-finalists-for-class-of-2025-election/">announced</a> Friday as one of 17 finalists to join the Basketball Hall of Fame's Class of 2025.</p><p>The star-studded American squad, which conquered gold at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, is joined by 16 individuals still up for consideration this year:</p><ul>
<li>Danny Crawford (Referee)</li>
<li>Marques Johnson (Player)</li>
<li>Molly Bolin (Player)</li>
<li>Buck Williams (Player)</li>
<li>Jennifer Azzi (Player)</li>
<li>Sue Bird (Player)</li>
<li>Maya Moore (Player)</li>
<li>Sylvia Fowles (Player)</li>
<li>Dwight Howard (Player)</li>
<li>Carmelo Anthony (Player)</li>
<li>Jerry Welsh (Coach)</li>
<li>Billy Donovan (Coach)</li>
<li>Mark Few (Coach)</li>
<li>Tal Brody (Coach)</li>
<li>Dusan Ivkovic (Coach)</li>
<li>Micky Arison (Owner)</li>
</ul><p>Headlined by Dwyane Wade, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>, and Kobe Bryant, Team USA's men's side dominated the 2008 Olympics, defeating Spain in the gold-medal game to cap a perfect 8-0 run in the tournament. The final was the Americans' second win over the Spanish in the tournament and the only contest they didn't win by at least 20 points.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Anthony and Howard were also prominent members of the Olympic squad, meaning the former Los Angeles Lakers teammates could be inducted twice this year.</p><p>Johnson and Williams, the other former NBAers unveiled Friday, starred for the Milwaukee Bucks and New Jersey Nets, respectively, between the late 1970s and 1980s. Johnson was a three-time All-NBA pick and was a finalist for induction from 2018-22. Williams, who was an All-NBA selection in 1983 amid an eight-year run in New Jersey, is a finalist for the first time.</p><p>Bird, Moore, and Fowles are among six other former players being considered for induction. From 2004 to 2020, the three WNBA legends captured a combined 10 championships, with Fowles and Moore winning twice together on the Minnesota Lynx in 2015 and 2017.</p><p>Moore collected the 2014 WNBA MVP award, six All-Star selections, six Olympic gold medals, two EuroLeague titles, and two NCAA championships with UConn over her college and professional career. She stepped away from basketball after eight seasons - when she was 29 years old - to focus on advocacy for criminal justice system reform.</p><p>Of the coaches, Few and Donovan are still active. The former is in his 26th season in charge of Gonzaga's men's program, while Donovan is in his fifth campaign with the Chicago Bulls and 10th in the NBA. However, Donovan had his best run behind the bench at the collegiate level, leading Florida to two NCAA championships during his 19 years with the Gators.</p>

Basketball: 2008 Summer Olympics: USA team and head coach Mike Krzyzewski victorious with gold medals after game vs Spain during Men's Final at Olympic Basketball Gymnasium in Wukesong Culture and Sports Center. Beijing, China 8/24/2008 CREDIT: Bob Rosato

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Team USA 'Redeem Team' among 17 finalists for Basketball HOF

The Sacramento Kings are signing free-agent point guard Markelle Fultz, his agent told ESPN's Sha...

<p>The Sacramento Kings are signing free-agent point guard Markelle Fultz, his agent told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1889881383084105904">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Fultz hasn't played this season after his contract with the Orlando Magic expired at the end of the 2023-24 campaign. He averaged 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and one steal for Orlando last season, starting in 18 of his 43 appearances.</p><p>The former No. 1 pick shores up the Kings' depth at the point, which was diminished by the three-team trade that sent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53733" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53733">De'Aaron Fox</a> to the San Antonio Spurs. In six games since parting with Fox, Sacramento has deployed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53736" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53736">Malik Monk</a> as its primary ball-handler. The 27-year-old Monk has traditionally operated in an off-ball role throughout his eight-year career, though, including 14 starts alongside Fox this season.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - MAY 5: Markelle Fultz #20 of the Orlando Magic handles the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Round 1 Game 7 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on May 5, 2024 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 2024 NBAE

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Kings agree to deal with Fultz

Brandon Ingram's Toronto Raptors debut may not come any time soon.  Raptors head coach Darko Raja...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44931" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44931">Brandon Ingram</a>'s Toronto Raptors debut may not come any time soon.</p><p>Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic admitted Wednesday that he's "not even sure if (Ingram) will be able to play again this season or not," according to the <a href="https://x.com/WolstatSun/status/1889809030933258583">Toronto Sun's Ryan Wolstat</a>.</p><p>Ingram last played Dec. 7 for the New Orleans Pelicans when he sprained his left ankle after coming down on the foot of Oklahoma City Thunder forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70382" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70382">Lu Dort</a>. He was sidelined for the Pelicans' next 27 games before being dealt to the Raptors on Thursday. He's missed another four since joining Toronto, though the club quickly got ahead of his impending free agency by signing him to a three-year, $120-million extension Tuesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 27-year-old said Wednesday that he still has no timetable for a return, according to <a href="https://x.com/JLew1050/status/1889803419604623555">TSN's Josh Lewenberg</a>. Ingram also said he expects to need a reconditioning process because of his lengthy absence.</p><p>Rajakovic said the Raptors will re-evaluate Ingram every two weeks but that the priority is to have him healthy entering the summer and for the start of next season, according to <a href="https://x.com/JLew1050/status/1889809294901801184">Lewenberg</a>.</p><p>Ingram averaged 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 18 games for the Pelicans this season. The 2020 Most Improved Player tallied 23 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game with 47.2/37.2/84.7 shooting splits in six campaigns with New Orleans.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - FEBRUARY 12 : Brandon Ingram attends an introductory press conference ahead of NBA basketball game between Toronto Raptors and Cleveland Cavaliers at the Scotiabank Arena on February 12, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Brandon Ingram has agreed to a three-year contract extension deal worth $120 million with the Toronto Raptors.

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Raptors' Rajakovic unsure if Ingram will play again this season

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant eclipsed 30,000 career points Tuesday, reaching the mark on third-...

<p>Phoenix Suns star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> eclipsed 30,000 career points Tuesday, reaching the mark on third-quarter free throws against the Memphis Grizzlies.</p><p>Durant is the eighth player to achieve the milestone, joining the likes of Wilt Chamberlain, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and longtime foe <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Total</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>41623</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>38387</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Karl Malone</td>
<td>36928</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Kobe Bryant</td>
<td>33643</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Michael Jordan</td>
<td>32292</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Dirk Nowitzki</td>
<td>31560</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td>31419</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>30008</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>"It's a true honor to be in the same category as those players who helped shaped the game and push the game forward," Durant <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1889563827252957635">told</a> reporters postgame. "That's always been my goal - is to get the most out of myself every day and the most out of my career."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Durant finished with 34 points on 12-of-18 shooting (3-of-4 from deep), bringing his career point total to 30,008. He also had a season-high five blocks to complement three rebounds and three assists. However, his effort wasn't enough to help his Suns win: Phoenix lost 119-112 and fell below .500 for the first time since Jan. 14.</p><p>Immediately after the final buzzer sounded in Phoenix, Grizzlies star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:tg66ahqdjtkbj3iobks4fr5x/post/3lhxhtz3wos2n">handed</a> Durant the game ball as a sign of respect.</p><p>"He's one of the greats," Morant told <a href="https://x.com/NBAonTNT/status/1889552421568880910">TNT's Taylor Rooks</a> postgame. "Everybody don't get 30K in this league. So hats off to him, and I hope he keeps going. We want to see him out here."</p><p>Among active players, Durant sits second behind James and just over 3,000 points ahead of Los Angeles Clippers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>. Denver Nuggets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> and Golden State Warriors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> round out the top five among active players.</p><p>Durant, 36, entered Tuesday's action averaging 26.9 points in his 17th season. He was also registering 6.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.3 blocks while posting 52.4/39.8/82.7 shooting splits.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JANUARY 25: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns reacts to a three-point shot against the Washington Wizards during the first half of the NBA game at Footprint Center on January 25, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Durant becomes 8th player to reach NBA's 30K points milestone

Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford will be sidelined for at least two weeks after spraining h...

<p>Dallas Mavericks center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Daniel Gafford</a> will be sidelined for at least two weeks after spraining his right knee during Monday's loss to the Sacramento Kings, the team announced.</p><p>Gafford's injury leaves Dallas severely undermanned in the frontcourt, at least through the All-Star break.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, who was acquired from the Los Angeles Lakers in the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> deal, will reportedly miss several weeks after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3214692" href="https://thescore.com/news/3214692">suffering</a> an adductor strain in his Mavericks debut Saturday. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110268" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110268">Dereck Lively II</a> still has no return date after suffering a stress fracture on Jan. 14 against the Denver Nuggets. The team is also without center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6312" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6312">Dwight Powell</a>, who's sat out of Dallas' last 12 contests with a hip strain.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gafford is averaging 12.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in 51 games for the Mavericks this season, making 28 starts.</p>

BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 6: Daniel Gafford #21 of the Dallas Mavericks handles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on February 6, 2025 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Mavs' Gafford out for at least 2 weeks with knee sprain

Ben Simmons plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers once he clears waivers with the Brooklyn ...

<p>Ben Simmons plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers once he clears waivers with the Brooklyn Nets, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1888294238074593528">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Simmons, who reportedly finalized a buyout with the Nets on Saturday, will clear waivers at 5 p.m. ET Monday, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1888294913428873612">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.</p><p>The 28-year-old point guard averaged 6.2 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.2 rebounds in 33 games with Brooklyn this season, 24 of which were starts. However, he made just four appearances in the Nets' past 12 games because of illness and back soreness, the latter of which has plagued the three-time All-Star's career in recent seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Simmons gives the Clippers another capable ball-handler with experience behind James Harden. Nine-year vet <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24864" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24864">Kris Dunn</a> has been Tyronn Lue's primary point guard off the bench, though the 30-year-old has also started 27 games alongside Harden as Lue shuffled the lineup amid multiple injuries earlier this season. Los Angeles' backcourt depth also now includes 36-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/416" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/416">Patty Mills</a>, who was acquired in a Feb. 1 trade with the Utah Jazz.</p><p>Though no longer the Defensive Player of the Year candidate he was prior to his lingering back issues, Simmons' 6-foot-10 frame gives Lue another big body to utilize in certain defensive schemes.</p><p>The Clippers' wing-heavy roster currently contains just three players who are 6-foot-10 or taller - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52287" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52287">Ivica Zubac</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96073" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96073">Kai Jones</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45988" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45988">Drew Eubanks</a>, who was acquired alongside Mills from the Jazz. Zubac, however, has been the only consistent member of the rotation all season. Jones did not feature in the Clippers' last seven games, while Eubanks played just seven and 13 minutes in the two games since being acquired.</p>

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Report: Simmons to sign with Clippers

The Brooklyn Nets waived veteran Ben Simmons, the team announced Saturday.  Simmons and the Nets ...

<p>The Brooklyn Nets waived veteran Ben Simmons, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Simmons and the Nets reached an agreement on a contract buyout, allowing the 28-year-old to become an unrestricted free agent, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1888279623001321641">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. He's expected to meet with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Houston Rockets, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1887886148921340293">NBA insider Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>Simmons is unable to sign with seven teams as a free agent, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1888280242210635925">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>, including the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, and Phoenix Suns.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>That restriction is due to a stipulation introduced in the 2023 collective bargaining agreement, which prohibits teams above the first apron from signing players in the buyout market that were earning more than the $12.8-million non-taxpayer mid-level exception in their last contract. Simmons was earning $40.3 million this season, the last in the five-year, $177-million extension he signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2019.</p><p>The 28-year-old has averaged 6.2 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.2 rebounds with Brooklyn this season.</p><p>Simmons joined the Nets in 2022 in the James Harden trade. He previously spent four seasons with the 76ers, winning Rookie of the Year, making two All-Star games, and winning All-NBA third-team honors in 2020.</p><p>He missed the entirety of the 2021-22 season due to a holdout and back injury.</p><p>Since joining Brooklyn, he's averaged 6.5 points, 6.3 assists, 6.2 rebounds, and a steal in 90 games spanning almost three years.</p><p>The Nets are 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 17-34 record.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 22: Ben Simmons #10 of the Brooklyn Nets reacts after throwing the ball out of bounds in the third quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers during the NBA Emirates Cup at the Wells Fargo Center on November 22, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Jonathan Soveta

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