10 days ago
SAN FRANCISCO — After dropping Game 1 of the WNBA Finals to the No. 2 seed Golden State Valkyries, the No. 4 seed Atlanta Dream find themselves is unfamiliar territory heading into Game 2 on Monday, Oct. 19.
The Valkyries overcame a nine-point deficit to secure a 68-64 win and take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. The Valkyries' victory snapped the Dream's 10-game win streak dating back to the regular season. It was Atlanta's first loss of the postseason and first defeat since Aug. 28.
"Unfortunately, we had kind of one bad defensive quarter where we had a few breakdowns and then one bad offensive quarter in the fourth," Dream head coach Karl Smesko said. "Now we're just going to have to watch film, make some adjustments and come out as hard as we possibly can, because we obviously want to leave here winning Game 2."
The film from Game 1 shows the Dream conceding 17 points off 12 turnovers, all while shooting 33% from the field and 16% from the 3-point line. Allisha Gray finished with a team-high 19 points and six rebounds in her first game back in the lineup after a left hand injury and "minor procedure" sidelined her two playoff games. Angel Reese recorded 14 points in the first half, but was held scoreless the second half.
"I wasn't aggressive enough with the ball and trying to ... get to my spot," said Reese, who pointed to self-inflicted wounds as the difference in the game. "I think it was all things that we did."
#dream
The Valkyries overcame a nine-point deficit to secure a 68-64 win and take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. The Valkyries' victory snapped the Dream's 10-game win streak dating back to the regular season. It was Atlanta's first loss of the postseason and first defeat since Aug. 28.
"Unfortunately, we had kind of one bad defensive quarter where we had a few breakdowns and then one bad offensive quarter in the fourth," Dream head coach Karl Smesko said. "Now we're just going to have to watch film, make some adjustments and come out as hard as we possibly can, because we obviously want to leave here winning Game 2."
The film from Game 1 shows the Dream conceding 17 points off 12 turnovers, all while shooting 33% from the field and 16% from the 3-point line. Allisha Gray finished with a team-high 19 points and six rebounds in her first game back in the lineup after a left hand injury and "minor procedure" sidelined her two playoff games. Angel Reese recorded 14 points in the first half, but was held scoreless the second half.
"I wasn't aggressive enough with the ball and trying to ... get to my spot," said Reese, who pointed to self-inflicted wounds as the difference in the game. "I think it was all things that we did."
#dream
10 days ago
The 2026-27 Texas Tech women's basketball team made its first public appearance in an exhibition against Angelo State on Sunday at United Supermarkets arena.
The Lady Raiders, picked 10th in the Big 12 preseason coaches' poll, dressed out nine players as the team navigates multiple injuries.
Here's who started for Tech, along with their stat lines from the 81-40 win.
Ambrosia Cole, guard — 12 points (4-of-8 shooting); 2 rebounds; 6 ******* ists; 2 steals
Tahys Da Silva, guard — 2 points (0-of-8 shooting, 0-of-5 from 3); 8 rebounds; 4 ******* ists; 5 steals
#team #guard #points
The Lady Raiders, picked 10th in the Big 12 preseason coaches' poll, dressed out nine players as the team navigates multiple injuries.
Here's who started for Tech, along with their stat lines from the 81-40 win.
Ambrosia Cole, guard — 12 points (4-of-8 shooting); 2 rebounds; 6 ******* ists; 2 steals
Tahys Da Silva, guard — 2 points (0-of-8 shooting, 0-of-5 from 3); 8 rebounds; 4 ******* ists; 5 steals
#team #guard #points
10 days ago
When Kawhi Leonard became a Toronto Raptor for the first time in the summer of 2018, he looked shellshocked. "There's just more questions you have to ask me in order for me to tell you about myself," he said, introducing himself to an organization and city he reportedly had no interest in joining.
Leonard had fallen out with his former team, the San Antonio Spurs – one of the most respected franchises in professional sports – due to differences in opinion about an injury that had limited him to just nine games in the 2017-18 season. The Los Angeles native had hoped to end up in southern California, but instead the Raptors risked it all by swapping franchise cornerstone DeMar DeRozan for one year of an injured, malcontent Leonard. It worked: Leonard led the Raptors to their maiden championship on the back of a historic playoff run, averaging 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.9 **** ists and 1.7 steals en route. Leonard won his second finals MVP to go alongside the one he had claimed with the Spurs when he helped them to the **** le in 2014.
Related: LeBron James is everything Philadelphia wants. And everything it can't stand | Bryan Armen Graham
"The narrative of not wanting to come to this city is gone," the team's president, Masai Ujiri, said at that 2018 press conference, speaking to insecure Raptors fans who had watched American players like Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Chris Bosh leave Toronto since the franchise opened its doors in 1995. "We should move past that. Believe in this city. Believe in yourselves … We are proud of who we are."
But even a historic season wasn't enough to convince Leonard to stay north of the border. After a long and contentious free-agency period managed by his uncle, Dennis Robertson, Leonard spurned the reigning champions in favor of his hometown Los Angeles Clippers. "There wasn't as much anger in 2019 as there was with Vince Carter or some of the other guys who left," says Bruce Arthur, who has covered Leonard since 2018 for the Toronto Star. "I think he was given a little bit of special dispensation because he was going home, because he had delivered a **** le, and because I never felt like there was ever a connection outside of Kawhi the basketball player, with Toronto."
#SPURS #vince #carter #believe
Leonard had fallen out with his former team, the San Antonio Spurs – one of the most respected franchises in professional sports – due to differences in opinion about an injury that had limited him to just nine games in the 2017-18 season. The Los Angeles native had hoped to end up in southern California, but instead the Raptors risked it all by swapping franchise cornerstone DeMar DeRozan for one year of an injured, malcontent Leonard. It worked: Leonard led the Raptors to their maiden championship on the back of a historic playoff run, averaging 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.9 **** ists and 1.7 steals en route. Leonard won his second finals MVP to go alongside the one he had claimed with the Spurs when he helped them to the **** le in 2014.
Related: LeBron James is everything Philadelphia wants. And everything it can't stand | Bryan Armen Graham
"The narrative of not wanting to come to this city is gone," the team's president, Masai Ujiri, said at that 2018 press conference, speaking to insecure Raptors fans who had watched American players like Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Chris Bosh leave Toronto since the franchise opened its doors in 1995. "We should move past that. Believe in this city. Believe in yourselves … We are proud of who we are."
But even a historic season wasn't enough to convince Leonard to stay north of the border. After a long and contentious free-agency period managed by his uncle, Dennis Robertson, Leonard spurned the reigning champions in favor of his hometown Los Angeles Clippers. "There wasn't as much anger in 2019 as there was with Vince Carter or some of the other guys who left," says Bruce Arthur, who has covered Leonard since 2018 for the Toronto Star. "I think he was given a little bit of special dispensation because he was going home, because he had delivered a **** le, and because I never felt like there was ever a connection outside of Kawhi the basketball player, with Toronto."
#SPURS #vince #carter #believe
10 days ago
The Los Angeles Lakers may be ready for their regular-season opener on Wednesday once it arrives, but they may not be prepared. They were never whole in their five preseason games, of which they won only two, and that could hurt them in the early days and weeks of the regular season.
New starting center Walker Kessler didn't play in the team's first three preseason games. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves played in only three games apiece, and therefore, Friday's game, which ended with a 121-106 loss to the Denver Nuggets, was the only game in which the three of them shared the court.
Reaves said after that contest that he knows building chemistry together will be a process that won't be easy, but he also expressed confidence that things will get sorted out in time.
"There's gonna be some growing pains," Reaves said. "Just a lack of reps together so far, but you take guys like that, that are that talented, you are more than likely gonna pick up on it sooner than later. We'll continue to grow that over the next couple days and get ready for opening night."
Kessler seemed to take it somewhat easy in his two exhibition appearances, but he looks poised to give Los Angeles the elite rebounding and shot-blocking it lacked last season. He had a total of 17 points on 6-of-14 shooting, 15 rebounds, five ***** ists, three blocks and two steals in 47 minutes during those two contests.
#season
New starting center Walker Kessler didn't play in the team's first three preseason games. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves played in only three games apiece, and therefore, Friday's game, which ended with a 121-106 loss to the Denver Nuggets, was the only game in which the three of them shared the court.
Reaves said after that contest that he knows building chemistry together will be a process that won't be easy, but he also expressed confidence that things will get sorted out in time.
"There's gonna be some growing pains," Reaves said. "Just a lack of reps together so far, but you take guys like that, that are that talented, you are more than likely gonna pick up on it sooner than later. We'll continue to grow that over the next couple days and get ready for opening night."
Kessler seemed to take it somewhat easy in his two exhibition appearances, but he looks poised to give Los Angeles the elite rebounding and shot-blocking it lacked last season. He had a total of 17 points on 6-of-14 shooting, 15 rebounds, five ***** ists, three blocks and two steals in 47 minutes during those two contests.
#season
10 days ago
Earlier in the season, Angel Reese exclaimed that "Anything that goes up is mine," reflecting her mentality in the paint. Reese is now the WNBA's Defensive Player of the Year. Grabbing 12.1 rebounds per game in the regular season, she is far ahead of any other player in that category, and her gritty style of play has made her a solid anchor for the Atlanta Dream. However, Flau'jae Johnson believes that if Reese can consistently deliver on a less talked-about aspect of her game, she can be nearly unplayable.
"On a defensive point, I wouldn't say nothing. She's just a dog, and when you a dog, things just happen on defense. She's relentless. She was playing like a DB against New York. It's relentless," said Johnson on Sue Bird's podcast, Bird's Eye View.
"But I would say offensively, like that three-point shot. I've seen a couple of highlights on Instagram where Jonquel's like Let her shoot. She's knocking them down. And I think that's the difference. If she could consistently do that, like you got to play them straight up and that opens up the lane. So I think like that's like the evolution of like her game. But defense isn't really worried about that."
Johnson is reflecting on the moment when, during the third game of the series, Reese found herself alone at the perimeter, with Liberty player Jonquel Jones leaving her unguarded, and Reese knocking down the three comfortably.
Flau'jae's candid take on Angel Reese's game reveals what scouts are really watching for. Subscribe to stay ahead of the WNBA's most compelling storylines.
#player
"On a defensive point, I wouldn't say nothing. She's just a dog, and when you a dog, things just happen on defense. She's relentless. She was playing like a DB against New York. It's relentless," said Johnson on Sue Bird's podcast, Bird's Eye View.
"But I would say offensively, like that three-point shot. I've seen a couple of highlights on Instagram where Jonquel's like Let her shoot. She's knocking them down. And I think that's the difference. If she could consistently do that, like you got to play them straight up and that opens up the lane. So I think like that's like the evolution of like her game. But defense isn't really worried about that."
Johnson is reflecting on the moment when, during the third game of the series, Reese found herself alone at the perimeter, with Liberty player Jonquel Jones leaving her unguarded, and Reese knocking down the three comfortably.
Flau'jae's candid take on Angel Reese's game reveals what scouts are really watching for. Subscribe to stay ahead of the WNBA's most compelling storylines.
#player
1 month ago
Ciena stock rebounds 4% as investors reprice CEO Gary Smith's projection of a $10B backlog by fiscal year-end, despite a 19% monthly slide.
Arista rises just 2% and Cisco barely moves at 0.4%, confirming today's surge is Ciena's own order book story, not a broad networking rally.
CFO Marc Graff guided for at least 30% revenue growth next fiscal year, backed by backlog that extends beyond that period.
Read More: Learn 7 secret wealth tips high net worth investors use that most investors miss (sponsor)
Ciena (NYSE:CIEN) stock is climbing early Wednesday, up 4% to $347.60. The advance is a rebound rather than a breakout, since Ciena stock is down 19% over the past month. No fresh company news landed this morning, and the market is re-pricing disclosures Ciena made at the start of September, when the company reported record quarterly results with revenue at the top end of guidance.
#backlog
Arista rises just 2% and Cisco barely moves at 0.4%, confirming today's surge is Ciena's own order book story, not a broad networking rally.
CFO Marc Graff guided for at least 30% revenue growth next fiscal year, backed by backlog that extends beyond that period.
Read More: Learn 7 secret wealth tips high net worth investors use that most investors miss (sponsor)
Ciena (NYSE:CIEN) stock is climbing early Wednesday, up 4% to $347.60. The advance is a rebound rather than a breakout, since Ciena stock is down 19% over the past month. No fresh company news landed this morning, and the market is re-pricing disclosures Ciena made at the start of September, when the company reported record quarterly results with revenue at the top end of guidance.
#backlog
1 month ago
As the stock market rebounds, it's important to watch the stocks that are holding up and are most loved by equity ****** ysts. They may end up becoming the next big opportunities.
Amazon.com (AMZN), Alphabet (GOOGL) and Dell Technologies (DELL) are three of the seven best stocks where investors can find magnificent profit growth prospects. Investors should be seeking new buy opportunities after the S&P 500 climbed to new highs.
Amphenol (APH) is forming a cup-with-handle base with an 88.17 buy point, according to IBD MarketSurge pattern recognition. The stock, however, slipped below its 50-day moving average. A 2-for-1 stock split went into effect Sept. 2.
Shares gapped up July 29 after Q2 sales and earnings breezed past expectations on solid growth in the IT datacom market.
The company is one of the world's largest providers of fiber-optic and high-speed connectors, including cables and connectors for data centers. Data centers have become an important market for Amphenol as hyperscalers continue the aggressive expansion of AI infrastructure.
#amphenol #investors #data
Amazon.com (AMZN), Alphabet (GOOGL) and Dell Technologies (DELL) are three of the seven best stocks where investors can find magnificent profit growth prospects. Investors should be seeking new buy opportunities after the S&P 500 climbed to new highs.
Amphenol (APH) is forming a cup-with-handle base with an 88.17 buy point, according to IBD MarketSurge pattern recognition. The stock, however, slipped below its 50-day moving average. A 2-for-1 stock split went into effect Sept. 2.
Shares gapped up July 29 after Q2 sales and earnings breezed past expectations on solid growth in the IT datacom market.
The company is one of the world's largest providers of fiber-optic and high-speed connectors, including cables and connectors for data centers. Data centers have become an important market for Amphenol as hyperscalers continue the aggressive expansion of AI infrastructure.
#amphenol #investors #data
1 month ago
Chad Baker-Mazara's departure from USC last spring came after head coach Eric Musselman went off on a "profanity-laced, racially-charged" tirade against him in the locker room, the former player is alleging in a new lawsuit.
Baker-Mazara filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles on Monday, according to the California Post, claiming that Musselman erupted on him after the team's loss to Nebraska on Feb. 28. Baker-Mazara and the Trojans split just days later. He is suing the university for breach of contract, conversion and intentional interference with prospective economic advantage, among other things.
Baker-Mazara left USC during the final stretch of the regular season last spring. Specifics of his departure weren't known, other than it was reportedly due to "an accumulation of issues," but the timing was very suspect. The announcement came on March 1, just days before the Trojans kicked off the Big Ten tournament.
Baker-Mazara transferred into USC from Auburn, and averaged career-highs 18.5 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.
The incident in question, according to the lawsuit, happened after their loss to Nebraska on Feb. 28. Baker-Mazara said that Musselman started yelling at the team in the locker room. Baker-Mazara tried to address his teammates, and Musselman shut him down.
#last #spring
Baker-Mazara filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles on Monday, according to the California Post, claiming that Musselman erupted on him after the team's loss to Nebraska on Feb. 28. Baker-Mazara and the Trojans split just days later. He is suing the university for breach of contract, conversion and intentional interference with prospective economic advantage, among other things.
Baker-Mazara left USC during the final stretch of the regular season last spring. Specifics of his departure weren't known, other than it was reportedly due to "an accumulation of issues," but the timing was very suspect. The announcement came on March 1, just days before the Trojans kicked off the Big Ten tournament.
Baker-Mazara transferred into USC from Auburn, and averaged career-highs 18.5 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.
The incident in question, according to the lawsuit, happened after their loss to Nebraska on Feb. 28. Baker-Mazara said that Musselman started yelling at the team in the locker room. Baker-Mazara tried to address his teammates, and Musselman shut him down.
#last #spring
1 month ago
Heat news: Giannis, Bam Adebayo working out as teammates is a big Miami flex appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The world is yet to find out just what kind of havoc the tandem of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo can wreak on the basketball court together as Miami Heat teammates. But the rest of the NBA has a clear reason to be scared of the duo, which is already building chemistry on the court.
Miami recently shared a video showing the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo and Adebayo going down to work in the gym together.
The Heat pulle off the biggest trade of the NBA offseason, as they won the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes. They sent a huge package composed of Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakučionis, the No. 13 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, a couple of future first-round picks, a pick swap and a future second-rounder to the Milwaukee Bucks in July in order to acquire Antetokounmpo and veteran power forward Bobby Portis.
"The Greek Freak" will turn 32 years old in December, but he is very much still at the top of his game. In what turned out to be his final season with the Bucks, the 10-time NBA All-Star averaged 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds and 5.4 ***** ists, while shooting 62.4 percent from the field. He only played in 36 games as he was limited by injuries, but he's healthy now and should be out on the court when the Heat make their 2026-27 NBA season debut.
#heat
The world is yet to find out just what kind of havoc the tandem of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo can wreak on the basketball court together as Miami Heat teammates. But the rest of the NBA has a clear reason to be scared of the duo, which is already building chemistry on the court.
Miami recently shared a video showing the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo and Adebayo going down to work in the gym together.
The Heat pulle off the biggest trade of the NBA offseason, as they won the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes. They sent a huge package composed of Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakučionis, the No. 13 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, a couple of future first-round picks, a pick swap and a future second-rounder to the Milwaukee Bucks in July in order to acquire Antetokounmpo and veteran power forward Bobby Portis.
"The Greek Freak" will turn 32 years old in December, but he is very much still at the top of his game. In what turned out to be his final season with the Bucks, the 10-time NBA All-Star averaged 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds and 5.4 ***** ists, while shooting 62.4 percent from the field. He only played in 36 games as he was limited by injuries, but he's healthy now and should be out on the court when the Heat make their 2026-27 NBA season debut.
#heat
1 month ago
Former Houston Rockets center Montrezl Harrell appears to be attempting an NBA comeback. Although he's recently played in the BIG3, Harrell is still 32 years old and is now aiming to make another NBA roster. Harrell, who started out as a Rockets second-round pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, may be eyeing a reunion in Houston.
Following the conclusion of the BIG3 season, Harrell was seen at Rio Grande Valley Vipers open tryouts Saturday, competing for a spot on the team. Harrell's NBA career spanned eight seasons, two of which were with the Rockets. In those years, the former Louisville big man averaged 6.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, 0.8 **** ists, 0.3 steals and 0.5 blocks. Harrell would later become one of the league's premiere sixth men, taking home the 2019-2020 Sixth Man of the Year Award after averaging 18.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.7 **** ists, 0.6 steals and 1.1 blocks for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Harrell's last NBA campaign came during the 2022-23 season, where he suited up in 57 games for the Philadelphia 76ers.
For more NBA content, check out the BasketBaltes podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@B...
#harrell #rockets #houston #points
Following the conclusion of the BIG3 season, Harrell was seen at Rio Grande Valley Vipers open tryouts Saturday, competing for a spot on the team. Harrell's NBA career spanned eight seasons, two of which were with the Rockets. In those years, the former Louisville big man averaged 6.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, 0.8 **** ists, 0.3 steals and 0.5 blocks. Harrell would later become one of the league's premiere sixth men, taking home the 2019-2020 Sixth Man of the Year Award after averaging 18.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.7 **** ists, 0.6 steals and 1.1 blocks for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Harrell's last NBA campaign came during the 2022-23 season, where he suited up in 57 games for the Philadelphia 76ers.
For more NBA content, check out the BasketBaltes podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@B...
#harrell #rockets #houston #points
1 month ago
Former Charlotte Hornets forward Taj Gibson announced his retirement Monday after 17 seasons in the NBA. Gibson was recently rostered by the Memphis Grizzlies but was later traded to the New Orleans Pelicans and was subsequently waived. Gibson spent one season with the Hornets, playing in Charlotte during the 2024-25 campaign. In 37 appearances, the former USC forward averaged 2.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, 0.6 **** ists, 0.2 steals and 0.5 blocks. While with the franchise, Gibson served as a veteran presence and particularly helped recent Hustle Award winner Moussa Diabate in his development.
Throughout his 17-year career, Gibson played 1,012 games, averaging 8.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 0.9 **** ists, 0.5 steals and one block. He made the All-Rookie Team during the 2009-10 season and finished top-10 in Sixth Man of the Year voting three times. Following his retirement, Gibson agreed to join the team that drafted him (Chicago Bulls) as an **** istant coach.
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#former
Throughout his 17-year career, Gibson played 1,012 games, averaging 8.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 0.9 **** ists, 0.5 steals and one block. He made the All-Rookie Team during the 2009-10 season and finished top-10 in Sixth Man of the Year voting three times. Following his retirement, Gibson agreed to join the team that drafted him (Chicago Bulls) as an **** istant coach.
For more NBA content, check out the BasketBaltes podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@B...
https://www.instagram.com/...
#former
1 month ago
The Boston Celtics have reportedly signed Devin Carter to a training camp deal, per HoopsHype's Michael Scotto. Carter, 24, will have the opportunity to either earn a spot on Boston's main NBA roster or to join Amari Williams and Dillon Mitchell as one of the Celtics' three two-way talents. Should he sign a two-way deal, he would be expected to spend the majority of the season with the Maine Celtics. Still, it's fair to ******* ume he'd get a chance to impress with the NBA roster at some point, too.
Unfortunately, the decision to sign Carter doesn't come without a potential roster casualty. Milos Uzan has been with the Celtics since signing an Exhibit 10 contract earlier this summer. Uzan instantly impressed when suiting up for the Celtics during Las Vegas Summer League, where he averaged 9.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 4 ******* ists per game, shooting 36.8 percent from 3-point range and 38.1 percent from the field.
Following John Tonje's decision to join the Portland Trail Blazers on a two-way deal earlier in the offseason, the path for Uzan to earn the final two-way spot with the Celtics appeared wide open. Sure, he'd have to impress during training camp and beat out Tucker DeVries, but given Boston's need for a depth piece at guard, everything seemed to be lining up.
Now, with Carter also in the mix, Uzan is facing a far tougher battle to prove himself and earn a two-way spot with the Celtics. Uzan is a talented young guard and should have no problem finding a home in the coming months if things do not go his way.
Hopefully, he remains in Maine regardless of whether he gets a two-way deal. After all, he could still work with the Celtics' developmental staff and potentially prove the front office wrong for signing Carter, should that come to pass. Of course, Uzan will likely draw interest from elsewhere if Carter does beat Uzan to the Celtics' final two-way spot, and unfortunately for Uzan, that's just part of trying to make it in the NBA.
#celtics #carter #deal #still
Unfortunately, the decision to sign Carter doesn't come without a potential roster casualty. Milos Uzan has been with the Celtics since signing an Exhibit 10 contract earlier this summer. Uzan instantly impressed when suiting up for the Celtics during Las Vegas Summer League, where he averaged 9.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 4 ******* ists per game, shooting 36.8 percent from 3-point range and 38.1 percent from the field.
Following John Tonje's decision to join the Portland Trail Blazers on a two-way deal earlier in the offseason, the path for Uzan to earn the final two-way spot with the Celtics appeared wide open. Sure, he'd have to impress during training camp and beat out Tucker DeVries, but given Boston's need for a depth piece at guard, everything seemed to be lining up.
Now, with Carter also in the mix, Uzan is facing a far tougher battle to prove himself and earn a two-way spot with the Celtics. Uzan is a talented young guard and should have no problem finding a home in the coming months if things do not go his way.
Hopefully, he remains in Maine regardless of whether he gets a two-way deal. After all, he could still work with the Celtics' developmental staff and potentially prove the front office wrong for signing Carter, should that come to pass. Of course, Uzan will likely draw interest from elsewhere if Carter does beat Uzan to the Celtics' final two-way spot, and unfortunately for Uzan, that's just part of trying to make it in the NBA.
#celtics #carter #deal #still
1 month ago
A former No. 9 overall pick from UConn, Kemba Walker put together the strongest career in franchise history to this point. While Walker is famous for wearing the No. 15, he wore the No. 1 during his rookie season with the Charlotte Bobcats. Over his career with the franchise, Walker would play eight seasons in Charlotte, averaging 19.8 points, 5.5 **** ists, 3.8 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 0.4 blocks in 605 appearances.
Following his time with the Hornets, he'd land with the Boston Celtics in a sign-and-trade deal that brought Terry Rozier to Charlotte. After two seasons in Boston, Walker would play a season for the New York Knicks and finish his NBA career after nine games for the Dallas Mavericks. In 12 seasons total, Walker played 750 games while averaging 19.3 points, 5.3 **** ists, 3.8 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 0.4 blocks. He now works with the Hornets as a player development coach and has opened up "Kemba Walker Sports Academy" in Concord, North Carolina.
Throughout the season, Rookie Wire is documenting the jersey number history of the Charlotte Hornets
Previous: Tony Delk, Robert Parish, Spencer Hawes, Theron Smith, Jeff McInnis, Larry Hughes, Bismack Biyombo, Briante Weber, Miles Bridges, Muggsy Bogues, Baron Davis, Jason Hart, Ryan Hollins, Derek Anderson, Andre Brown, Cartier Martin, Stephen Jackson
For more NBA content, check out the BasketBaltes podcast:
#franchise
Following his time with the Hornets, he'd land with the Boston Celtics in a sign-and-trade deal that brought Terry Rozier to Charlotte. After two seasons in Boston, Walker would play a season for the New York Knicks and finish his NBA career after nine games for the Dallas Mavericks. In 12 seasons total, Walker played 750 games while averaging 19.3 points, 5.3 **** ists, 3.8 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 0.4 blocks. He now works with the Hornets as a player development coach and has opened up "Kemba Walker Sports Academy" in Concord, North Carolina.
Throughout the season, Rookie Wire is documenting the jersey number history of the Charlotte Hornets
Previous: Tony Delk, Robert Parish, Spencer Hawes, Theron Smith, Jeff McInnis, Larry Hughes, Bismack Biyombo, Briante Weber, Miles Bridges, Muggsy Bogues, Baron Davis, Jason Hart, Ryan Hollins, Derek Anderson, Andre Brown, Cartier Martin, Stephen Jackson
For more NBA content, check out the BasketBaltes podcast:
#franchise
1 month ago
The 2026-27 season is quickly approaching for the Philadelphia 76ers as they have their eyes on ending a long ***** le drought after the big additions made in the offseason. The Sixers will field one of the more talented rosters in the league and will look to get to the mountaintop in 2027.
It's now time to look ahead to the new season and time to break down each position for the Sixers in an effort to preview what the season might look like. Sixers Wire will look at the centers now and take a look at what the Sixers bring to the table at the position:
Sure, the Sixers have some shiny new players in Jaylen Brown and LeBron James, but all of this still comes down to the health of Joel Embiid. The big fella is still a dominant player when he can get on the floor as evidenced by his 26.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.9 ***** ists he averaged in 38 games in the 2025-26 season. Embiid being able to return early from an appendectomy completely changed that Round 1 series with Boston when the Sixers rallied from a 3-1 deficit. He averaged 28.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.0 ***** ists in Round 1 against the Celtics as he spurred the rally for Philadelphia.
When Embiid is right, there aren't many players in the league who can slow him down. He has lost a step defensively as a result of the injuries and surgeries he's had to undergo has robbed him of a lot of speed and athleticism, but Embiid is so smart and able to find new ways to be effective on defense. He is still one of the top players in the game and should be treated as such. If he's right and healthy, the Sixers take an even bigger leap forward.
The Sixers will rely on third-year big man Adem Bona as they did in the 2025-26 season. He averaged 4.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks as he was able to establish himself in coach Nick Nurse's rotation. He will have competition, though, as the Sixers did add bouncy Ariel Hukporti early in free agency. Also, in his third season, Hukporti will look to find an opportunity in Philadelphia.
#look #still
It's now time to look ahead to the new season and time to break down each position for the Sixers in an effort to preview what the season might look like. Sixers Wire will look at the centers now and take a look at what the Sixers bring to the table at the position:
Sure, the Sixers have some shiny new players in Jaylen Brown and LeBron James, but all of this still comes down to the health of Joel Embiid. The big fella is still a dominant player when he can get on the floor as evidenced by his 26.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.9 ***** ists he averaged in 38 games in the 2025-26 season. Embiid being able to return early from an appendectomy completely changed that Round 1 series with Boston when the Sixers rallied from a 3-1 deficit. He averaged 28.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.0 ***** ists in Round 1 against the Celtics as he spurred the rally for Philadelphia.
When Embiid is right, there aren't many players in the league who can slow him down. He has lost a step defensively as a result of the injuries and surgeries he's had to undergo has robbed him of a lot of speed and athleticism, but Embiid is so smart and able to find new ways to be effective on defense. He is still one of the top players in the game and should be treated as such. If he's right and healthy, the Sixers take an even bigger leap forward.
The Sixers will rely on third-year big man Adem Bona as they did in the 2025-26 season. He averaged 4.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks as he was able to establish himself in coach Nick Nurse's rotation. He will have competition, though, as the Sixers did add bouncy Ariel Hukporti early in free agency. Also, in his third season, Hukporti will look to find an opportunity in Philadelphia.
#look #still
1 month ago
This offseason, the Heat witnessed a complete change in its roster. From superstar acquisitions through trade exchanges to top players leaving impressive salaries to join the roster, they saw a major upheaval. However, two players who were unaffected by these events were Andrew Wiggins and Simone Fontecchio.
Both players not only get to continue on the team but were also offered retention; a lifeline offered to only a handful this time. Now, with the next season approaching, the players have to meet high expectations to justify their contracts.
Earlier in the summer, Wiggins exercised the $30.1 million player option for the final year of his contract with Miami. But on June 29, the Heat decided to hand him a two-year, $34 million extension, bringing his term to a three-year, $64 million contract with them overall. He will be getting $16.5 million in 2027-28 and will have the player-option season worth $17.5 million in 2028-29. This is a huge financial security for any player, especially in a team that is aggressively looking to reinvent itself at the cost of its roster.
Wiggins was a dependable starter and brought stability last season,which he needs to continue this year. Wiggins averaged 15.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 ****** ists per game across 68 appearances. Maintaining his distance from defense, the 31-year-old needs to focus on being a high-efficiency 3-and-D wing, a role that saw him shine last year. He knocked down two threes a game at a career-best 41.4% clip in 2025-26.
At his rate, he could surely increase his average and show improvement. For the upcoming season, Wiggins should get perimeter shooting help from Klay Thompson, who he was teammates with in Golden State.
#wiggins #players #heat #continue
Both players not only get to continue on the team but were also offered retention; a lifeline offered to only a handful this time. Now, with the next season approaching, the players have to meet high expectations to justify their contracts.
Earlier in the summer, Wiggins exercised the $30.1 million player option for the final year of his contract with Miami. But on June 29, the Heat decided to hand him a two-year, $34 million extension, bringing his term to a three-year, $64 million contract with them overall. He will be getting $16.5 million in 2027-28 and will have the player-option season worth $17.5 million in 2028-29. This is a huge financial security for any player, especially in a team that is aggressively looking to reinvent itself at the cost of its roster.
Wiggins was a dependable starter and brought stability last season,which he needs to continue this year. Wiggins averaged 15.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 ****** ists per game across 68 appearances. Maintaining his distance from defense, the 31-year-old needs to focus on being a high-efficiency 3-and-D wing, a role that saw him shine last year. He knocked down two threes a game at a career-best 41.4% clip in 2025-26.
At his rate, he could surely increase his average and show improvement. For the upcoming season, Wiggins should get perimeter shooting help from Klay Thompson, who he was teammates with in Golden State.
#wiggins #players #heat #continue
2 months ago
Ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season, HoopsHype is releasing rankings at every position. While Fred VanVleet was rated rather low as a point guard, Rockets star Kevin Durant was recently ranked as one of the best in his position. In a list of the top 27 small forwards in the NBA, Durant placed fifth after averaging 26 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.8 ***** ists, 0.8 steals and 0.9 blocks in 78 appearances last season.
The Duke duo of Jayson Tatum and Cooper Flagg were ranked first and second, respectively, before the newest member of the Philadelphia 76ers (Jaylen Brown) came in at No. 3. No. 4 is a much more controversial choice, as Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder was given the nod over Durant despite playing in just 33 contests last year. Kawhi Leonard (Raptors), Deni Avdija (Trail Blazers), Franz Wagner (Orlando Magic), Brandon Ingram (Clippers) and Brandon Miller (Hornets) rounded out the top-10.
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#season #ranked
The Duke duo of Jayson Tatum and Cooper Flagg were ranked first and second, respectively, before the newest member of the Philadelphia 76ers (Jaylen Brown) came in at No. 3. No. 4 is a much more controversial choice, as Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder was given the nod over Durant despite playing in just 33 contests last year. Kawhi Leonard (Raptors), Deni Avdija (Trail Blazers), Franz Wagner (Orlando Magic), Brandon Ingram (Clippers) and Brandon Miller (Hornets) rounded out the top-10.
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#season #ranked
2 months ago
Valkyries news: Gabby Williams' game leads France over Germany in World Cup semis appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Golden State Valkyries star Gabby Williams put together a spectacular performance for the French national team, taking down hosts Germany in the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup on Saturday.
The 2026 WNBA season is on hold while the global tournament goes through the knockout stage. It is in the semifinal phase with France, Germany, USA, and Spain highlighting the final four.
In 31 minutes of action, Williams balled out for her nation. She finished with a stat line of 22 points, five rebounds, five ****** ists, and four steals. She shot 8-of-12 from the field, including 2-of-5 from beyond the arc, and 4-of-5 from the free-throw line. This was a remarkable outing as France makes it way to the gold medal game.
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#gabby #clutchpoints #game
Golden State Valkyries star Gabby Williams put together a spectacular performance for the French national team, taking down hosts Germany in the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup on Saturday.
The 2026 WNBA season is on hold while the global tournament goes through the knockout stage. It is in the semifinal phase with France, Germany, USA, and Spain highlighting the final four.
In 31 minutes of action, Williams balled out for her nation. She finished with a stat line of 22 points, five rebounds, five ****** ists, and four steals. She shot 8-of-12 from the field, including 2-of-5 from beyond the arc, and 4-of-5 from the free-throw line. This was a remarkable outing as France makes it way to the gold medal game.
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#gabby #clutchpoints #game
2 months ago
For the second straight week, Aday Mara was in-person at Oklahoma's college football game. But for reasons that the football-crazy fanbase wants to know. The 7-foot-3 center made the trip to Michigan to cheer for his Wolverines and celebrate his collegiate year there.
Mara attended No. 11 Oklahoma's shocking 17-10 loss to Michigan on Saturday. At halftime, the Wolverines' men's basketball team was honored. They had a dominant 37-3 record and brought home the 2026 national championship. Alongside Yaxel Lendeborg and Morez Johnson Jr., Mara was part of a monstrous three-headed frontcourt.
Mara's decision to transfer to Michigan was life-altering. He became a household name and eventually the No. 12 pick of the 2026 NBA draft. He averaged 12.1 points on 66.8% shooting, 6.8 rebounds, 2.4 ***** ists and 2.6 blocks in his sole collegiate season there.
The Oklahoma City Thunder hope Mara can have a similar type of impact at the NBA level. The 21-year-old is one of the tallest players in the league already. Because of that, he should be a constant paint-scoring threat and be one of the best shot-blockers.
Now, the conditioning and shooting are the main areas of concern. The Thunder hope he can improve both aspects in his rookie season. In an ideal world, he won't be relied upon to help from the jump. Rather, spend the year working on his craft in low-leverage situations.
#year #collegiate #season
Mara attended No. 11 Oklahoma's shocking 17-10 loss to Michigan on Saturday. At halftime, the Wolverines' men's basketball team was honored. They had a dominant 37-3 record and brought home the 2026 national championship. Alongside Yaxel Lendeborg and Morez Johnson Jr., Mara was part of a monstrous three-headed frontcourt.
Mara's decision to transfer to Michigan was life-altering. He became a household name and eventually the No. 12 pick of the 2026 NBA draft. He averaged 12.1 points on 66.8% shooting, 6.8 rebounds, 2.4 ***** ists and 2.6 blocks in his sole collegiate season there.
The Oklahoma City Thunder hope Mara can have a similar type of impact at the NBA level. The 21-year-old is one of the tallest players in the league already. Because of that, he should be a constant paint-scoring threat and be one of the best shot-blockers.
Now, the conditioning and shooting are the main areas of concern. The Thunder hope he can improve both aspects in his rookie season. In an ideal world, he won't be relied upon to help from the jump. Rather, spend the year working on his craft in low-leverage situations.
#year #collegiate #season
2 months ago
The Houston Rockets recently teamed up with Toyota for an annual day of service, where they honored both first responders and military personnel. Some of Houston's attendees included Reed Sheppard, Jae'Sean Tate, head coach Ime Udoka and general manager Rafael Stone. While there, Stone spoke to the media about his relationship with star center Alperen Sengun, revealing that he went to visit him in Turkey this summer.
"We had some good conversations at the end of last year. Part of it was Alpi putting pressure on me [to communicate better]." Stone went on to say that he spent nearly two weeks with Sengun in Turkey, spending time with one another each day. This is, of course, a great sign for Rockets fans, as Sengun and the front office appear to be on the same page.
Last season, Sengun made his second consecutive all-star appearance, averaging 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6.2 ******* ists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks.
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#stone #basketbaltes #last
"We had some good conversations at the end of last year. Part of it was Alpi putting pressure on me [to communicate better]." Stone went on to say that he spent nearly two weeks with Sengun in Turkey, spending time with one another each day. This is, of course, a great sign for Rockets fans, as Sengun and the front office appear to be on the same page.
Last season, Sengun made his second consecutive all-star appearance, averaging 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6.2 ******* ists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks.
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#stone #basketbaltes #last
2 months ago
It's the middle of September and Pat Kelsey and company are still active in the transfer portal.
LJ Wells, a 6'8 power forward who played the last four seasons at Northern Kentucky, has committed to play for Louisville in 2026-27. Wells is the namesake plaintiff in the ongoing Wells vs. NCAA case in Jefferson County Circuit Court that earned a fifth-year of eligibility for players like Wells, D'Angelo Hutchinson, Jabari Mack, and Missouri hooper Mark Mitchell.
Wells started all 33 games for the Norse last season, posting career-best averages of 15.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. He also earned All-Horizon Tournament Team honors after averaging 22.3 points, 8.7 rebounds and 2.7 ***** ists while helping NKU to the Horizon League semis, where they fell to eventual champion Wright State.
It feels weird to be adding players like this, especially when you can't be 100 percent sure if they're even going to be able to play this winter, but this is a nice depth add at a position where U of L could definitely use some additional depth.
Welcome aboard, LJ.
#last
LJ Wells, a 6'8 power forward who played the last four seasons at Northern Kentucky, has committed to play for Louisville in 2026-27. Wells is the namesake plaintiff in the ongoing Wells vs. NCAA case in Jefferson County Circuit Court that earned a fifth-year of eligibility for players like Wells, D'Angelo Hutchinson, Jabari Mack, and Missouri hooper Mark Mitchell.
Wells started all 33 games for the Norse last season, posting career-best averages of 15.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. He also earned All-Horizon Tournament Team honors after averaging 22.3 points, 8.7 rebounds and 2.7 ***** ists while helping NKU to the Horizon League semis, where they fell to eventual champion Wright State.
It feels weird to be adding players like this, especially when you can't be 100 percent sure if they're even going to be able to play this winter, but this is a nice depth add at a position where U of L could definitely use some additional depth.
Welcome aboard, LJ.
#last
2 months ago
Backup center Ryan Hollins was the fourth player in Charlotte Hornets franchise history to wear the No. 1, doing so for a brief stretch as a member of the Charlotte Bobcats. A former No. 50 overall pick out of UCLA, Hollins played two and a half seasons in Charlotte before being traded along with Matt Carroll to the Dallas Mavericks for DeSagana Diop.
In 105 games for the Bobcats, Hollins averaged 2.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, 0.2 **** ists, 0.2 steals and 0.5 blocks. Following his time in Charlotte, Hollins would go on to play seven more seasons, giving himself an impressive 10-year NBA career. In 518 career appearances, Hollins averaged 3.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, 0.3 **** ists, 0.2 steals and 0.5 blocks. Since his playing days, Hollins has served as a basketball **** yst and pundit for a variety of different outlets.
Throughout the season, Rookie Wire is documenting the jersey number history of the Charlotte Hornets
Previous: Tony Delk, Robert Parish, Spencer Hawes, Theron Smith, Jeff McInnis, Larry Hughes, Bismack Biyombo, Briante Weber, Miles Bridges, Muggsy Bogues, Baron Davis, Jason Hart
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#hollins #seasons
In 105 games for the Bobcats, Hollins averaged 2.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, 0.2 **** ists, 0.2 steals and 0.5 blocks. Following his time in Charlotte, Hollins would go on to play seven more seasons, giving himself an impressive 10-year NBA career. In 518 career appearances, Hollins averaged 3.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, 0.3 **** ists, 0.2 steals and 0.5 blocks. Since his playing days, Hollins has served as a basketball **** yst and pundit for a variety of different outlets.
Throughout the season, Rookie Wire is documenting the jersey number history of the Charlotte Hornets
Previous: Tony Delk, Robert Parish, Spencer Hawes, Theron Smith, Jeff McInnis, Larry Hughes, Bismack Biyombo, Briante Weber, Miles Bridges, Muggsy Bogues, Baron Davis, Jason Hart
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#hollins #seasons
2 months ago
Sophie Cunningham has become one of the most talked-about figures in women's basketball. Whether on or off the court, Cunningham's outspoken personality has built a large following for herself and has recently added a new platform to that reach.
The Indiana Fever guard launched a podcast called "No Hesitation" alongside trainer Drew Hanlen. Her debut episode was released on Thursday. During that episode, she addresses the storytelling path she believes the WNBA media should tread. Also, she highlights things she could do differently if she held certain governmental powers over the game.
Jul 15, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) before the game against the Golden State Valkyries at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
So far in the season, Cunningham has averaged 8.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.3 ***** ists per game, demonstrating her central role to her team's success all-year-long. During the show, Cunningham touched on players' remuneration, the WNBA media coverage, and even the outgoing commissioner's office. An NFL-themed X page, Franco Vision, shares snippets from the conversation.
"We're always as players going to want more money, and as owners they're always not going to want to give it to you…"When it comes to media coverage, I think that we have good coverage now. Yes, it can always be better. Yes, it can be bigger."
#fever
The Indiana Fever guard launched a podcast called "No Hesitation" alongside trainer Drew Hanlen. Her debut episode was released on Thursday. During that episode, she addresses the storytelling path she believes the WNBA media should tread. Also, she highlights things she could do differently if she held certain governmental powers over the game.
Jul 15, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) before the game against the Golden State Valkyries at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
So far in the season, Cunningham has averaged 8.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.3 ***** ists per game, demonstrating her central role to her team's success all-year-long. During the show, Cunningham touched on players' remuneration, the WNBA media coverage, and even the outgoing commissioner's office. An NFL-themed X page, Franco Vision, shares snippets from the conversation.
"We're always as players going to want more money, and as owners they're always not going to want to give it to you…"When it comes to media coverage, I think that we have good coverage now. Yes, it can always be better. Yes, it can be bigger."
#fever
2 months ago
Katie Lou Samuelson missed all of last season in the WNBA due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Now she'll miss the end of the 2026 season, also because of a knee issue.
The Seattle Storm announced Friday that the former UConn women's basketball star will miss the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season after undergoing an arthroscopic procedure on her left knee on Thursday. The team did not state the reason why Samuelson had the procedure or when she's expected back on the court.
Seattle has four more games remaining this season and resumes game action (the WNBA remains on its World Cup break) on Thursday, Sept. 17 against Las Vegas. The Storm are one of seven teams not to make the WNBA Playoffs this season.
Samuelson signed with the Storm ahead of the 2025 season but tore the ACL in her right knee during training camp that spring. She missed all of last season recovering before making her return to the court on May 30 (Seattle's ninth game of the 2026 season). The former Husky saw action in 32 games this season and averaged 4.4 points on 40.5% shooting from the field, along with 2.1 rebounds, 0.8 ***** ists, and 0.8 steals in 15.3 minutes per game. Samuelson started one game for the Storm this year and scored a season-best 11 points against Chicago on July 15.
#samuelson #WNBA
Now she'll miss the end of the 2026 season, also because of a knee issue.
The Seattle Storm announced Friday that the former UConn women's basketball star will miss the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season after undergoing an arthroscopic procedure on her left knee on Thursday. The team did not state the reason why Samuelson had the procedure or when she's expected back on the court.
Seattle has four more games remaining this season and resumes game action (the WNBA remains on its World Cup break) on Thursday, Sept. 17 against Las Vegas. The Storm are one of seven teams not to make the WNBA Playoffs this season.
Samuelson signed with the Storm ahead of the 2025 season but tore the ACL in her right knee during training camp that spring. She missed all of last season recovering before making her return to the court on May 30 (Seattle's ninth game of the 2026 season). The former Husky saw action in 32 games this season and averaged 4.4 points on 40.5% shooting from the field, along with 2.1 rebounds, 0.8 ***** ists, and 0.8 steals in 15.3 minutes per game. Samuelson started one game for the Storm this year and scored a season-best 11 points against Chicago on July 15.
#samuelson #WNBA
2 months ago
As the newest member of the Minnesota Timberwolves, young swingman Jonathan ******* inga couldn't be more excited about his basketball future. After a difficult parting with the Warriors, ******* inga had some tough decisions to make this summer, but he would say it worked out for the best with a two-year, $12.4 million deal to join Anthony Edwards and his rising young team.
Thursday evening marked ******* inga's introductory press conference with the organization, where he answered all sorts of questions relating to his free-agent process and expectations for the future. Notably, he also spoke about teaming up with LaMelo Ball, someone he called his best passing teammate ever (yes, even over Curry).
"I think his ability to pass the ball, I was watching him work out yesterday and I was watching him and the way he can pass the ball, it's incredible," said ******* inga. "I've played with so many point guards in my career, but I've never played with anybody that can pass as good as LaMelo. I'm looking forward to it; I'm excited."
In ******* inga's defense, Ball is famously skilled offensively with career averages of 20.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 7.3 ******* ists, 1.4 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game on 41.8% shooting. While he often likes to get flashy with the ball, he's undeniably elite as a playmaker and passer, opening up the floor for teammates and adding a layer of flexibility to the rotation.
To claim that Ball is a better passer than Curry might sound like blasphemy, but the stats back it up. Curry averages 24.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, 6.3 ******* ists, 1.5 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game for his career, falling short of even Ball's passing numbers. More so than LaMelo, Curry is much more of a scorer, and he's always had teammates to help him run the offense.
#lamelo #pass
Thursday evening marked ******* inga's introductory press conference with the organization, where he answered all sorts of questions relating to his free-agent process and expectations for the future. Notably, he also spoke about teaming up with LaMelo Ball, someone he called his best passing teammate ever (yes, even over Curry).
"I think his ability to pass the ball, I was watching him work out yesterday and I was watching him and the way he can pass the ball, it's incredible," said ******* inga. "I've played with so many point guards in my career, but I've never played with anybody that can pass as good as LaMelo. I'm looking forward to it; I'm excited."
In ******* inga's defense, Ball is famously skilled offensively with career averages of 20.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 7.3 ******* ists, 1.4 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game on 41.8% shooting. While he often likes to get flashy with the ball, he's undeniably elite as a playmaker and passer, opening up the floor for teammates and adding a layer of flexibility to the rotation.
To claim that Ball is a better passer than Curry might sound like blasphemy, but the stats back it up. Curry averages 24.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, 6.3 ******* ists, 1.5 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game for his career, falling short of even Ball's passing numbers. More so than LaMelo, Curry is much more of a scorer, and he's always had teammates to help him run the offense.
#lamelo #pass
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2 months ago
Draymond Green recently recorded an episode of his podcast, 'The Draymond Green Show,' in which he discussed several league topics, including Ben Simmons' NBA return with the Sacramento Kings.
Simmons signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Kings to make his comeback to basketball after taking a year away from the league. When he last played in the 2024-25 season, he averaged 5.6 ******* ists, 5.0 points, and 4.7 rebounds in 51 games while shooting 52.0% from the floor.
Green recognizes that while Ben Simmons is no longer the same All-Star-caliber player people saw in his prime, his arrival mainly benefits Darius Acuff Jr., the 19-year-old point guard the Kings picked seventh overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
"Number one, I'm happy to see Ben Simmons back in the NBA. Ben Simmons is a talent that, you know, doesn't grow on trees, and we don't get the opportunity to see in the NBA every day. Ben Simmons got off to a very promising start in his career, and then a lot of people try to blame his game and not his injuries."
"It sucks that when guys get injuries, ultimately people start blaming them as a player, you know, as if you have control over the injuries that happened. And I know Ben Simmons was dealing with a back issue. And I know most people don't understand what that means, but let me tell you, as someone who dealt with a back issue, it's debilitating," Draymond Green said.
#kings #know
Simmons signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Kings to make his comeback to basketball after taking a year away from the league. When he last played in the 2024-25 season, he averaged 5.6 ******* ists, 5.0 points, and 4.7 rebounds in 51 games while shooting 52.0% from the floor.
Green recognizes that while Ben Simmons is no longer the same All-Star-caliber player people saw in his prime, his arrival mainly benefits Darius Acuff Jr., the 19-year-old point guard the Kings picked seventh overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
"Number one, I'm happy to see Ben Simmons back in the NBA. Ben Simmons is a talent that, you know, doesn't grow on trees, and we don't get the opportunity to see in the NBA every day. Ben Simmons got off to a very promising start in his career, and then a lot of people try to blame his game and not his injuries."
"It sucks that when guys get injuries, ultimately people start blaming them as a player, you know, as if you have control over the injuries that happened. And I know Ben Simmons was dealing with a back issue. And I know most people don't understand what that means, but let me tell you, as someone who dealt with a back issue, it's debilitating," Draymond Green said.
#kings #know
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2 months ago
A longtime NBA journeyman recently named Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry as one of the league's top five players. In an interview with HoopsHype, 14-year NBA veteran Danilo Gallinari spoke about his career and the current state of the NBA. When asked to give a top-five list of current players, Curry was the first name he said. "Current Top 5, I always, I guess I always go with the old heads first: Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James. And then I put Anthony Edwards and Nikola Jokic."
Gallinari, a former No. 6 overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, played for eight different franchises, with his longest stop coming in Denver. Despite suffering two ACL tears during his career, the Italian forward put together an impressive resume, playing in 777 career games, averaging 14.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.9 ***** ists and 0.7 steals while shooting 42.8% from the floor and 38.1% from beyond the arc. His strongest campaign came with the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2018-19 season, where he averaged 19.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.6 ***** ists and 0.7 steals. Gallinari's final season came during the 2023-24 campaign, where he played for three different teams, the Wizards, Pistons and Bucks.
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#current #first
Gallinari, a former No. 6 overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, played for eight different franchises, with his longest stop coming in Denver. Despite suffering two ACL tears during his career, the Italian forward put together an impressive resume, playing in 777 career games, averaging 14.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.9 ***** ists and 0.7 steals while shooting 42.8% from the floor and 38.1% from beyond the arc. His strongest campaign came with the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2018-19 season, where he averaged 19.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.6 ***** ists and 0.7 steals. Gallinari's final season came during the 2023-24 campaign, where he played for three different teams, the Wizards, Pistons and Bucks.
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#current #first
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2 months ago
UConn men's basketball coach Dan Hurley has landed his first big recruit of the 2027 class.
Five-star prospect NaVarro Bowman Jr. has committed to UConn, ESPN reporter Adam Schefter reported on Thursday. Bowman is the son of former San Francisco 49ers all-pro linebacker NaVarro Bowman Sr. and is UConn's first commit in this class.
Bowman is the top ranked player in California, per 247 Sports. He chose UConn over the likes of Texas and Arizona.
A Southern California native, Bowman has been a standout at Notre Dame-Sherman Oaks high school. Last season, he averaged 22.5 points, five **** ists and 4.9 rebounds per game.
In 2024, he led the Knights to the CIF SoCal Open Division finals where they eventually fell to a Brayden Burries-led Roosevelt High.
#high #class #hurley #espn
Five-star prospect NaVarro Bowman Jr. has committed to UConn, ESPN reporter Adam Schefter reported on Thursday. Bowman is the son of former San Francisco 49ers all-pro linebacker NaVarro Bowman Sr. and is UConn's first commit in this class.
Bowman is the top ranked player in California, per 247 Sports. He chose UConn over the likes of Texas and Arizona.
A Southern California native, Bowman has been a standout at Notre Dame-Sherman Oaks high school. Last season, he averaged 22.5 points, five **** ists and 4.9 rebounds per game.
In 2024, he led the Knights to the CIF SoCal Open Division finals where they eventually fell to a Brayden Burries-led Roosevelt High.
#high #class #hurley #espn
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2 months ago
As the 2026-27 Iowa women's basketball season approaches, the Hawkeyes will host 2027 four-star combo guard commit Jada Seubert and 2027 four-star center recruit Khalia Hartwell on official visits this upcoming Cy-Hawk weekend on Sept. 11-12.
Hartwell, a 6-foot-5 prospect, is the nation's No. 16 overall player, the No. 2 center and the top player in South Carolina, per 247Sports. Rivals rates Hartwell as the country's No. 26 player, as the No. 3 center and as the top player in South Carolina.
A product of Westside High School in Anderson, S.C., the 6-foot-5 center was named South Carolina's Gatorade Player of the Year after averaging 12.4 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game.
With Iowa sandwiched between official visits to Georgia (Sept. 4) and Virginia Tech (Sept. 18), the Hawkeyes hope that their recruitment pitch and potentially the influence of Seubert can help advance the program to the top of Hartwell's mind.
Seubert, a 5-foot-11 combo guard from Stevens Point, Wis., has been committed to Iowa since Jan. 17. She is ranked as the No. 42 overall prospect, the No. 4 combo guard, and the No. 1 recruit in Wisconsin, per 247Sports.
#player #seubert #center #guard
Hartwell, a 6-foot-5 prospect, is the nation's No. 16 overall player, the No. 2 center and the top player in South Carolina, per 247Sports. Rivals rates Hartwell as the country's No. 26 player, as the No. 3 center and as the top player in South Carolina.
A product of Westside High School in Anderson, S.C., the 6-foot-5 center was named South Carolina's Gatorade Player of the Year after averaging 12.4 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game.
With Iowa sandwiched between official visits to Georgia (Sept. 4) and Virginia Tech (Sept. 18), the Hawkeyes hope that their recruitment pitch and potentially the influence of Seubert can help advance the program to the top of Hartwell's mind.
Seubert, a 5-foot-11 combo guard from Stevens Point, Wis., has been committed to Iowa since Jan. 17. She is ranked as the No. 42 overall prospect, the No. 4 combo guard, and the No. 1 recruit in Wisconsin, per 247Sports.
#player #seubert #center #guard
2 months ago
The FIBA World Cup is underway, and the United States women are once again the heavy favorite to walk away with the gold medal. The US hasn't lost in the World Cup since 2006, and this year's roster is stacked with both veteran and up-and-coming talent.
Their biggest threat has long appeared to be France, who have dominated all three games of Group Play action and finished with the silver medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
But, there's another, more under-the-radar team that has impressed in the early days of the World Cup: Belgium.
Belgium beat Australia 80-68 on Monday behind a monster performance from Emma Meesseman, who exploded for 22 points on 10-of-17 shooting, along with 10 rebounds, 8 ******* ists, and 2 steals. Julie Vanloo (12 points, 5 ******* ists) and Julie Allemand (11 points, 7 ******* ists) were also both highly impactful.
Australia is a powerhouse of its own. Its roster includes 8 WNBA players: Ezi Magbegor (Seattle Storm), Chloe Bibby (Minnesota Lynx), Isobel Borlase (Atlanta Dream), Milea Sowah (Golden State Valkyries), Rebecca Allen (New York Liberty), Jade Melbourne (Storm), Alanna Smith (Dallas Wings), and Steph Talbot (Las Vegas Aces).
#assists #storm
Their biggest threat has long appeared to be France, who have dominated all three games of Group Play action and finished with the silver medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
But, there's another, more under-the-radar team that has impressed in the early days of the World Cup: Belgium.
Belgium beat Australia 80-68 on Monday behind a monster performance from Emma Meesseman, who exploded for 22 points on 10-of-17 shooting, along with 10 rebounds, 8 ******* ists, and 2 steals. Julie Vanloo (12 points, 5 ******* ists) and Julie Allemand (11 points, 7 ******* ists) were also both highly impactful.
Australia is a powerhouse of its own. Its roster includes 8 WNBA players: Ezi Magbegor (Seattle Storm), Chloe Bibby (Minnesota Lynx), Isobel Borlase (Atlanta Dream), Milea Sowah (Golden State Valkyries), Rebecca Allen (New York Liberty), Jade Melbourne (Storm), Alanna Smith (Dallas Wings), and Steph Talbot (Las Vegas Aces).
#assists #storm
2 months ago
Stillman Valley High School has announced the Athletic/Activities Hall of Fame Class of 2026, recognizing a coach, former student-athletes, community supporters and championship teams for their achievements and contributions to Cardinal programs.
The inductees will be honored as part of Homecoming festivities Sept. 25, according to a community announcement. The class includes girls basketball coach Bobby Mellon, former student-athletes Michelle ******* er Rogers and Dan Godfread, Friends of Athletics honorees James and Russ Elliot, the 2002-03 Scholastic Bowl Team and the 1989-90 Chess Team.
Mellon has led the Stillman Valley girls basketball program since 2010 and has compiled a 252-105 varsity record. During his tenure, the Cardinals won five regional ******* les, two sectional championships and a Big Northern Conference championship. Mellon also has earned Illinois Basketball Coaches ******* ociation District Coach of the Year honors five times.
Fager Rogers, a member of the Class of 1996, competed in volleyball, basketball and track and field. She helped two girls basketball teams qualify for the state tournament and qualified for the IHSA State Track Meet in the hurdles. Her honors included Girls Track MVP and SVHS Female Athlete of the Year.
Godfread, a graduate from the Class of 1985, became one of the school's most accomplished basketball players before continuing his career at the University of Evansville. He finished his collegiate career with 1,386 points, 737 rebounds and 226 blocked shots while earning first-team all-conference recognition.
#Basketball #mellon #team #stillman
The inductees will be honored as part of Homecoming festivities Sept. 25, according to a community announcement. The class includes girls basketball coach Bobby Mellon, former student-athletes Michelle ******* er Rogers and Dan Godfread, Friends of Athletics honorees James and Russ Elliot, the 2002-03 Scholastic Bowl Team and the 1989-90 Chess Team.
Mellon has led the Stillman Valley girls basketball program since 2010 and has compiled a 252-105 varsity record. During his tenure, the Cardinals won five regional ******* les, two sectional championships and a Big Northern Conference championship. Mellon also has earned Illinois Basketball Coaches ******* ociation District Coach of the Year honors five times.
Fager Rogers, a member of the Class of 1996, competed in volleyball, basketball and track and field. She helped two girls basketball teams qualify for the state tournament and qualified for the IHSA State Track Meet in the hurdles. Her honors included Girls Track MVP and SVHS Female Athlete of the Year.
Godfread, a graduate from the Class of 1985, became one of the school's most accomplished basketball players before continuing his career at the University of Evansville. He finished his collegiate career with 1,386 points, 737 rebounds and 226 blocked shots while earning first-team all-conference recognition.
#Basketball #mellon #team #stillman
