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The Houston Rockets aggressively pursued championship contention in the 2025 NBA offseason, signaling a "win-now" approach by upgrading key positions without sacrificing their young core. Houston addressed three critical needs: a dominant perimeter scorer, a reliable 3-and-D wing, and playoff-tested center depth. The defining move was acquiring future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant, replacing Jalen Green. Durant significantly raises the offensive ceiling and brings playoff pedigree, despite risks associated with age and injury history. His fit with Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr. creates a legitimate "Big 3". Dorian Finney-Smith was brought in to replace Dillon Brooks. Finney-Smith offers more efficient shooting and a better contract than Brooks, fitting well into switch-heavy defenses without needing the ball. To bolster the frontcourt, Clint Capela replaces Jock Landale. Capela adds playoff experience, rim protection, rebounding, and stability, easing the load on Steven Adams and Sengun. These major additions cost the Rockets Cam Whitmore and the No. 10 draft pick, but the core of Thompson, Smith, Sengun, and Reed Sheppard remains intact. The Rockets' summer is viewed as impressive due to this balance between going all-in and maintaining future assets. The individual signings received the following grades: Clint Capela's acquisition was seen as a low-risk, high-floor move providing valuable playoff experience and rim protection as a backup or spot-starter. Dorian Finney-Smith's signing was graded as a smart, underrated pickup, offering defensive versatility and better spacing than Brooks, making him a valuable role player for playoff success.
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The Golden State Warriors remain the only NBA team without any offseason moves, causing fan concern following their second-round playoff exit. While they acquired Jimmy Butler at February's trade deadline, many believe they need further roster improvements to compete for a championship. On Wednesday, the Warriors missed an opportunity to sign Bradley Beal. The Phoenix Suns agreed to a contract buyout with the three-time All-Star, who plans to join the LA Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal with a player option after clearing waivers. Despite being linked to Beal before his buyout, the Warriors front office reportedly hesitated financially. League sources revealed Golden State was unwilling to offer Beal more than a minimum contract, unlike the Milwaukee Bucks who made a strong push. The Miami Heat were also limited to a minimum offer after acquiring Norman Powell. While avoiding overpaying for an aging star coming off a mediocre season might seem prudent, analysts note the Warriors might need to take risks on potential difference-makers. Beal's Clippers deal at $11 million over two years represents the type of contract many hoped Golden State could have offered.
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The Chicago Sky have ruled out Angel Reese and Ariel Atkins for Wednesday's game against the Atlanta Dream due to leg injuries. The exact nature of Reese's injury is unclear, and it is unknown when or how she sustained it. Atkins suffered her leg injury during the first half of Monday's loss to the Minnesota Lynx, leaving the game at halftime and not returning. With Reese and Atkins unavailable, the Sky announced a starting lineup of Kamilla Cardoso, Rachael Banham, Michela Onyenwere, Elizabeth Williams, and Moriah Jefferson for Wednesday's game. This marks Jefferson's first start of the season and Williams' fifth. Reese and Atkins are the team's top contributors in minutes per game (31.7 and 29.7 respectively). Reese's injury comes just days before she is scheduled to play in the WNBA All-Star Game on Saturday for Team Collier against Team Clark. It is unclear how long she will be sidelined or if the injury jeopardizes her All-Star participation. Reese, the league's leading rebounder, is a second-time All-Star in her second season, averaging 14 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, while improving her field goal percentage to 44.6%. Atkins, a two-time All-Star formerly with the Washington Mystics, has started all 21 games for Chicago this season, her first with the Sky. She averages 13.9 points, 3.5 assists, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.9 steals, shooting 42.5% from the field and 35.4% on three-point attempts. The Sky, who finished 13-27 last season, currently hold a 7-14 record in 2025.
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The Minnesota Timberwolves, having reached the Western Conference Finals in consecutive seasons, aim to build on their success for the 2025-26 season. Key players Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, and Rudy Gobert are central to their prospects. Anthony Edwards has ascended to become one of the NBA's best players, improving his game yearly. Last season saw significant gains in his three-point shooting (39.5%) and scoring (27.6 ppg). To elevate his fantasy value further and solidify a top-five player status, improving his playmaking (currently averaging 4.5 assists) is crucial. Despite being ranked as the 8th best fantasy player, he is projected as the top shooting guard in fantasy basketball. Rudy Gobert is viewed as a solid fantasy option, offering consistent double-double potential and shot-blocking, providing a safe floor. However, due to limited upside and center position depth, his ranking as the 65th overall and 16th center is appropriate, and drafting him higher isn't advised. Julius Randle presents better fantasy value than Gobert, ranked 76th overall. He delivers above-average production across categories (18.7 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 4.7 apg, 33.1 fantasy points last season) and offers more upside, making him a strong draft choice at his current value. With minimal free agency moves, the Timberwolves expect younger players to step up. Nickeil Alexander-Walker's departure creates opportunities for Terrance Shannon Jr. and rookie Rob Dillingham to emerge as potential fantasy sleepers. Jaden McDaniels is also anticipated to take on a larger offensive role. Overall, the Timberwolves are expected to offer significant fantasy value, led by Edwards (top SG), with Randle seen as a better draft value than Gobert, alongside McDaniels and the potential sleepers Shannon Jr. and Dillingham.
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The Indiana Pacers experienced a condensed offseason following their appearance in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 22, where they lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Head coach Rick Carlisle noted that the NBA Draft began just three days later, and free agency followed less than a week after that, leaving little time for the team to decompress after their deep playoff run. Carlisle described the quick turnaround as normal for the NBA and expressed pride in the team's effort, calling it a "great year" and a "great run" despite the disappointing Finals outcome. The 2024-25 postseason validated the Pacers' earlier progress, elevating them to top contenders after skeptics questioned their 2024 Eastern Conference Finals appearance. Built on depth and speed, the team challenged traditional playoff expectations and came within one game of winning the championship, with Carlisle highlighting their underdog status and inspiring competitiveness. However, the Pacers now face significant roster challenges for the 2025-26 season, as star guard Tyrese Haliburton will miss the entire campaign due to a torn Achilles, and starting center Myles Turner has departed for the Milwaukee Bucks. Carlisle acknowledged that the team must navigate these changes, with plans to reassess their direction for the next two seasons until Haliburton's expected return in 2026-27. During a Q&A session at a summer league game in Las Vegas, Carlisle addressed the team's future, stating that the Pacers' playoff performance was motivating to fans and that the team "will be fine" despite Turner's exit. He praised Turner as a "stretch big who can protect the rim" and noted the Pacers have multiple options at center, including Isaiah Jackson, James Wiseman, and Tony Bradley.
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WNBA guard Allisha Gray received more All-Star votes from both media and players than any other guard, an outcome she herself didn't anticipate. Gray, 30, is having a career-best season with the Atlanta Dream, averaging 18.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game while shooting 44.3% from the field and 38.9% from three-point range. She credits her significant offensive improvement to head coach Karl Smesko's new system, which she describes as "thinkless basketball." This approach emphasizes intuitive decision-making and playing within the flow of the game rather than relying heavily on set plays. Fellow All-Star and teammate Rhyne Howard praised Gray's performance, stating she knew Gray had this level of play in her and that witnessing it firsthand has been great for everyone. Howard highlighted how Gray's elevation takes pressure off other players on the team, currently holding a 12-9 record (5th best in the WNBA). Howard also expressed happiness seeing Gray enjoy such success, especially as her best friend. While making the All-Star team was always Gray's goal, being named a starter was the "cherry on top." This recognition follows her historic performance at the previous All-Star weekend, where she became the first player in WNBA history to win both the Skills Challenge and the Three-Point Contest in the same year, earning over $115,000 in bonuses.
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The Chicago Sky have announced that Angel Reese and Ariel Atkins will miss Wednesday's game against the Atlanta Dream due to leg injuries. The specific nature and origin of Reese's injury are unclear, as the team only provided a "leg" designation for both players. Ariel Atkins sustained her leg injury during the first half of Monday's loss to the Minnesota Lynx. She left that game at halftime and did not return. Reese played 37 minutes in the same game, recording 22 points and 10 rebounds. Reese's injury comes days before she is scheduled to play in the WNBA All-Star Game this Saturday, where she is set to play for Team Collier against Team Clark. It remains uncertain how long Reese will be out or if the injury jeopardizes her All-Star participation. Reese, 23, is in her second WNBA season and earned her second All-Star selection. She leads the league in rebounding, averaging 14 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, while improving her field goal percentage to 44.6%. Atkins, a two-time All-Star previously with Washington, has started all 21 games for Chicago this season. She averages 13.9 points, 3.5 assists, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.9 steals, shooting 42.5% from the field and 35.4% on three-pointers. The Sky, who finished 13-27 last season, continue to struggle in 2025 with a 7-14 record.
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The Oklahoma City Thunder signed Branden Carlson to a two-way contract, viewed as a potential steal. His Summer League performances, particularly showcasing three-point shooting ability, provide the team with a much-needed floor-spacing big man alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. While the Thunder's existing centers (Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, Jaylin Williams) include some shooting, Carlson developing into a consistent threat would be significant. Carlson made a strong impression in his Summer League debut for the Thunder. Starting and playing only 19 minutes and 9 seconds, he recorded 23 points, seven rebounds, two blocks, shooting an efficient 9-of-13 from the field and an impressive 4-of-6 from three-point range. This performance highlighted the specific floor-spacing skill the team seeks. This builds on Carlson's previous showing in limited G League action with the OKC Blue last season. Over 13 games, he averaged 16.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game, shooting 49.4% from the field and 36.6% on 6.3 three-point attempts per game. Landing Carlson on a two-way contract is considered an excellent value for the Thunder. His demonstrated three-point shooting finesse at Summer League is ideal. If he continues developing this role with the Blue, he could become a valuable pick-and-pop partner for Gilgeous-Alexander. His potential to provide floor spacing at the center position on an affordable contract is especially valuable given the Thunder's investments in top-end talent. Despite being just one Summer League game, Carlson emerges as a player to watch as the Thunder pursue championships.
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Brice Dessert, a 22-year-old French center (2.07 m), is in advanced negotiations to join Turkish basketball club Anadolu Efes. This move would see him potentially take minutes previously occupied by Dan Oturu, while his compatriot Vincent Poirier holds the starting center spot at Efes. Dessert, born in 2003, developed at INSEP before playing for Rouen, Blois, and most recently SIG Strasbourg. During the 2024-25 LNB season with Strasbourg, he averaged 9.0 points and 5.0 rebounds. According to journalist Chema de Lucas, other EuroLeague clubs also pursued Dessert. Both Maccabi Tel Aviv and AS Monaco showed interest and made offers to sign him. Monaco recently lost French center Mam Jaiteh to BC Dubai, while Maccabi Tel Aviv officially announced the signing of former NBA champion Oshae Brissett on the same day as this report.
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The Las Vegas Aces narrowly defeated the Golden State Valkyries 104-102 in a thrilling game on Saturday afternoon at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas. The victory was secured in the final moments of the closely contested match, featuring high-scoring action and clutch plays. The game marked the Aces' 36th consecutive sold-out home game. Key performances included A'ja Wilson scoring 34 points in her return from a wrist injury, Jackie Young contributing 30 points (including the team's final 10 points), Jewell Loyd adding 15 points, and Chelsea Gray scoring 6 points. Additionally, Dana Evans reached her 1,000th career point during the game. The event featured a special welcome for two former Aces players, Kate Martin and Tiffany Hayes. A video tribute honoring both players aired on the Jumbotron during warm-ups, receiving loud cheers from the audience. Hayes, who played for the Aces in 2024, is now with the Valkyries, while Martin was drafted by the Aces in 2024 but is no longer on the team. A'ja Wilson debuted a new colorway of her signature Nike A'One shoes during the game, inspired by the "Rugrats" character Susie Carmichael, continuing her trend of showcasing new designs that attract significant attention.
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The Los Angeles Lakers signed center Deandre Ayton on July 6th after he agreed to a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers. Ayton joined the Lakers on a two-year, $16.2 million contract, a significant discount compared to the $35.55 million he was scheduled to earn in the upcoming season. Prior to Ayton's availability, the Lakers were expected to sign two centers for a tag-team approach. One of the centers linked to them was veteran Brook Lopez, who played for the Milwaukee Bucks last season. However, Lopez, originally from the San Fernando Valley, signed with the Los Angeles Clippers instead. According to ESPN reporters, Lopez declined the Lakers (a team he played for in 2017-18) due to uncertainty surrounding LeBron James' future with the franchise. This uncertainty stems from LeBron James exercising his player option for the 2025-26 season on June 29th. On the same day, his agent, Rich Paul, issued a statement widely interpreted as opening the door for a potential trade request. Multiple reports suggest James and his camp have a strained relationship with the Lakers organization, with one claiming the team "would like to move on" from him. While James is likely to start the upcoming season with the Lakers, significant skepticism exists about whether he will remain with the team in the coming months.
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The Milwaukee Bucks have addressed their point guard situation with the pending acquisition of Cole Anthony and now have one final roster spot to fill. The article strongly advocates for the Bucks to sign free agent Caleb Houstan to fill this spot. The author argues that Houstan is the ideal fit for the Bucks' need for a "3-and-D" small forward with size, a role previously intended for Kyle Kuzma. Standing at 6-foot-8 with a 7-foot wingspan, Houstan provides the size and positional versatility the Bucks currently lack. His shooting efficiency is highlighted, noting he shot 40% from three-point range on 2.8 attempts per game, demonstrating the ability to space the floor effectively without forcing shots, which is crucial for Giannis Antetokounmpo's driving lanes. Beyond his size and shooting, Houstan's defensive impact is emphasized. While not elite, his perimeter defense is deemed serviceable; matchup data shows he held opposing guards to 45.8% shooting. His physical tools allow him to guard multiple positions effectively, from shooting guards to power forwards in small-ball lineups, filling a defensive versatility gap the Bucks have had since PJ Tucker's prime. The financial aspect is presented as highly favorable, suggesting Houstan would likely be available for a minimum contract, offering maximum value. This contrasts with other available wings who might demand more money or lack his defensive impact. Signing Houstan is portrayed as low-risk, high-reward. The timing is described as perfect for both sides. Houstan, at just 22 years old, could contribute immediately on a contender while learning from veterans, and the Bucks would gain a young player with developmental upside. Milwaukee's immediate need and clear role definition mean Houstan would be a legitimate rotation player from day one, not buried on the bench. The article concludes that signing Houstan represents a simple, effective solution for the Bucks' final roster spot.
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The article focuses on WNBA betting options available on FanDuel Sportsbook, specifically analyzing the Atlanta Dream vs. New York Liberty game. It highlights traditional markets like spreads and totals, as well as player-prop bets. Despite the two teams combining for 167 and 171 points in their previous 2025 meetings, the analysis suggests a "normal" game leans towards betting the under on the total points. This counters the recent high-scoring trend. The reasoning points to the Dream's exceptional 52.9% field goal shooting performance in their last matchup against the Liberty and a 37.9% three-point shooting night against Indiana as being above their typical output. Statistically, the Dream rank only seventh in the WNBA in true shooting percentage (TS%) at 54.3% on average nights. Furthermore, the Liberty possess an excellent defensive rating (DRTG) of 98.1, supporting the case for a lower-scoring game than the previous meetings. The article notes that betting lines are subject to change and injury news should be monitored, and mentions that separate best bets are available for the Wings-Fever game.
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Bradley Beal's tenure with the Phoenix Suns is ending, with the Los Angeles Clippers emerging as his overwhelmingly obvious next destination. The Clippers have long been the favorites to acquire the 32-year-old guard, a position strengthened after they traded Norman Powell for John Collins, increasing their need for a ball-handling guard. While other teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves, have been linked to Beal, they are seen as unrealistic options. The Bucks solidified their guard rotation by adding Cole Anthony. The Timberwolves can only offer a minimum salary, cannot guarantee Beal a closing lineup spot, and have Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle ahead of him offensively. The Warriors' fit is questionable with Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green, leaving Beal's offensive role unclear and limited financially. The Lakers' fit is deemed nonsensical alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James, despite offering a $5.1 million exception. The Clippers present a clearer path to starting minutes for Beal. While James Harden and Kawhi Leonard would be the primary options, Leonard's injury history means Beal could often function as the second option, especially given the team's efforts to reduce Leonard's offensive load. Acquiring Beal also significantly benefits the Suns financially. Buying him out and stretching his contract would saddle Phoenix with nearly $20 million in dead money for years. Instead, every dollar Beal earns from his new team offsets the Suns' luxury-tax bill, meaning the higher his salary (like the Clippers' offer), the more Phoenix saves. Currently, the Clippers can offer more money ($5.3 million) than any other reported suitor. This financial advantage, combined with the on-court fit and the substantial relief it provides the Suns, makes the Clippers the clear frontrunner and most realistic destination for Beal.
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Cooper Flagg, the #1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft playing for the Dallas Mavericks, will not participate further in the NBA Summer League after appearing in only two games. He scored 10 points in his debut against the Los Angeles Lakers and Bronny James. In his second game against the San Antonio Spurs, Flagg delivered a standout performance with 31 points (shooting 10-21 from the field and 8-13 from the free-throw line), along with 4 rebounds and a block. Despite his efforts, the Mavericks lost 76-69, with Flagg accounting for 45% of the team's points. Dylan Harper, the #2 pick, scored 16 points for the victorious Spurs. Following these two appearances, the Dallas Mavericks have decided to shut Flagg down for the remainder of the summer. According to reports, the team feels he has shown enough and has nothing left to prove in the Summer League. The primary reason for ending his Summer League participation is to minimize the risk of injury before his rookie NBA season, as he is considered a "day one starter." The NBA also benefits from protecting its new star, as Flagg is anticipated to significantly boost league viewership starting with the regular season. Flagg will now focus on preparing for his first NBA regular season, which begins on October 21st. The official NBA schedule is expected to be released in August, and there is speculation the Mavericks could feature in a primetime opening night game to capitalize on the interest surrounding Flagg. Fans will have to wait at least three months to see him play in an official game again, with only highlights from his two Summer League performances available until then.
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Bradley Beal is reportedly on his way out of the Phoenix Suns, and the team may have identified Koby Brea as a potential ideal replacement to develop alongside Devin Booker. While Brea is not the same caliber or type of player as Beal, the Suns are looking to rebuild around Booker and players like Brea might be a better fit. In his first two Summer League games, Brea showcased his exceptional three-point shooting. He hit 4 out of 5 threes in his debut and followed it up by making 4 of 6 attempts in the first half against the Atlanta Hawks. His comfort in seeking out his own shots off the ball was particularly notable, a skill the Suns need as they retool their roster. The Suns drafted Brea with the 41st pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and signed him to a two-way contract, making an immediate rotational role unlikely. However, his strong Summer League performance could accelerate efforts to upgrade his contract. Brea's off-ball movement and three-point shooting would have addressed a key weakness for last year's Suns, who struggled to generate consistent offense despite having Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. The redundancy of the "Big 3," all isolation-heavy scorers, limited the inclusion of other necessary skills like off-ball shooting. Brea's ability to create space for himself off the ball and hit threes is precisely what Phoenix needs now. This summer represents a chance for the Suns to revamp their roster after signing Booker to a record contract extension. While additions like Jalen Green (scoring), Dillon Brooks (defense), and centers Mark Williams, Khaman Maluach, and Nick Richards address other needs, the team still requires elite three-point shooting – Brea's standout skill. His rare shooting ability is evidenced by a 43.4% career three-point percentage over five college seasons, including 43.5% on high volume (5.9 attempts per game) in his final year at Kentucky. If Brea can hold up defensively, he projects as a perfect fit next to Booker. Although he is currently far from Beal's level as a player, his specific skill set aligns much better with the Suns' rebuilding goals around Booker.
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The Washington Mystics face the Seattle Storm on Sunday, July 13th at 6 p.m. ET at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, WA. The game will be broadcast on ION. The Mystics enter the game with Georgia Amoore listed as out. The Storm have Lexie Brown listed as day-to-day and Katie Lou Samuelson out. Washington is playing well recently, climbing back to a .500 record at 10-10. Rookies Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron have both been named All-Stars, while Shakira Austin and Brittney Sykes are also performing well. The team has won five of their last seven games, including victories against Minnesota and two wins against Las Vegas. Seattle holds a 12-8 record and has won six of its last nine games. This road game is considered the toughest on the Mystics' schedule in the past two weeks, especially as they travel to Los Angeles afterwards. This matchup marks the first meeting between the two teams this season. They will play again in Washington D.C. on July 26th and a final time in D.C. on August 24th. The Mystics are considered significant underdogs for this game, given only about a 23% chance of winning.
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The University of the Philippines (UP) and National University (NU) will compete in the finals of the 18th FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup after winning their respective semifinal matches. UP overcame a 15-point first-half deficit to defeat De La Salle University 83-78. Key players Rey Remogat, Gerry Abadiano, and Gani Stevens led the comeback, with Remogat hitting consecutive three-pointers in the final minutes to secure the win. Abadiano sealed the victory with late free throws. Similarly, NU staged a comeback in its semifinal against the University of Santo Tomas, erasing a 14-point deficit to win 96-84. Jake Figueroa starred for NU with 24 points, including four three-pointers, along with five rebounds, five assists, and five steals. Lenard Santiago contributed significantly with 13 points and three blocks. The upcoming final features UP attempting a rare three-peat in the tournament, having won the previous two editions. NU, which claimed the championship in 2022, now challenges UP for the title in this preseason showcase.
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The Minnesota Timberwolves are aiming to become consistent NBA Finals contenders, with their young stars seen as key to that goal. Several of these players, including second-year guards Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr., along with first-round draft pick Joan Beringer, are currently showcasing their skills at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. These players have impressed in the Timberwolves' early Summer League games. Notably, Joan Beringer tied a Summer League record with seven blocks during his debut performance. Star player Anthony Edwards attended the team's recent Summer League game against the Denver Nuggets, a 94-83 Timberwolves victory, sitting courtside to show support. During the game, Edwards interacted with a young fan wearing a Jamal Murray Nuggets jersey, signing an autograph on a ball cap for him. The Timberwolves' social media team capitalized on this moment, posting a video of the interaction on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption "@nuggets, y'all seeing this?". This was widely perceived as the team trolling the Nuggets, a challenging opponent they didn't face in the previous postseason. Fans reacted positively to the post, with comments like "Let the admin cook" accompanied by laughing and fire emojis.
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The article predicts that the Atlanta Dream will cover the +4.5 point spread against the New York Liberty in their upcoming WNBA game. Despite the Dream losing four of their last six games, including a heavy defeat to Indiana, their recently improved offense (now ranked fourth in scoring at 84.3 PPG) positions them to compete with the high-scoring Liberty (86.7 PPG). Atlanta also split the season series, winning decisively at home against New York on June 29th. The Liberty, after starting the season 9-0, have struggled recently with a 4-6 record, often allowing high scores (89+ points in five of those losses). This downturn is partly attributed to the continued absence of injured center Jonquel Jones. While New York has won eight of the last ten head-to-head matchups, Atlanta has covered the point spread in three straight games and five of the last six. The Liberty's strong 8-2 home record is contrasted by their less impressive 5-4-1 record against the spread at home. The article's best bet is the Dream +4.5 (-110). It also recommends two player prop bets: Allisha Gray over 17.5 points (citing her season average of 18.7 and a 20-point performance against New York last meeting, despite a recent poor outing) and Sabrina Ionescu over 2.5 made three-pointers (noting her 7-for-15 three-point shooting against Atlanta this season and a bounce-back expectation after a 1-for-9 performance).
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Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark debuted a new all-blue colorway of her Kobe 6 Protro player edition sneakers ahead of Sunday's game against the Dallas Wings. This specific design was inspired by Cookie Monster from Sesame Street. Despite Clark's status as the reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year, fans currently can only obtain her player editions (PEs), as her signature shoe line with Nike is not expected to launch until 2026 at the earliest. Nike previously released a Fever-themed Kobe 5 Protro in her honor in June, which sold out online almost immediately. Clark's popularity remains high even though injuries have limited her to just 11 appearances this season and slightly affected her performance. Sunday marks her third game back from a groin injury, with head coach Stephanie White gradually reintegrating her into the rotation; Clark has played fewer than 30 minutes in each of her last two games. Clark is working to regain her rhythm. In her recent games – a loss to the Golden State Valkyries and a win over the Atlanta Dream – she combined for 22 points, shooting 9-of-29 from the floor. Should her shooting improve against the Wings, the "Cookie Monster" Kobe 6 Protros are likely to remain in her rotation.
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The Indiana Fever, despite high expectations following Caitlin Clark's drafting in 2024 and championship hype in her second season (2025), are struggling for consistency. They currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference, barely holding onto the final playoff spot. This downturn, partly attributed to Clark's injury problems, has created an opportunity for teams like the Atlanta Dream to climb the standings. Under first-year head coach Karl Smesko, the Dream boast a 12-7 record entering a crucial Friday night game against the Fever in Indianapolis. Smesko has declared his team "really good" and emphasized they are still improving, but stressed the urgency of getting better with only half the season remaining. He wants consistent effort focused on their game plan and putting pressure on opponents for the entire game, regardless of the score. Smesko, transitioning from 22 years coaching college basketball, has overseen dramatic improvement in Atlanta. Led by All-Star Allisha Gray, the Dream possess the league's third-best offense and fifth-best defense. Implementing a style emphasizing 3-point attempts, Atlanta has scored at least 90 points in eight of their 19 games. However, Smesko seeks more consistent execution throughout entire games. The Fever have lost two of their three meetings with the Dream this season, including a 77-58 defeat on June 10th when Clark was absent due to injury. With Clark now back from her groin injury, Indiana hopes to counter Atlanta on Friday. Achieving this will require a strong defensive performance to contain Atlanta's key players: Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, and Brittney Griner.
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Despite winning the NBA title, the Oklahoma City Thunder may need to improve their shooting for next season. While their offseason has been quiet so far with minimal roster moves (trading Dillon Jones, signing Branden Carlson and Brooks Barnhizer to two-way deals) and optimism exists due to returning draft picks and Nikola Topic's recovery from injury, a potential weakness has been identified. The Thunder could face stagnation if they simply run back the same roster, a trend seen with other championship teams. Although their youth may help avoid this, addressing their biggest playoff flaw – inconsistent shooting – is crucial. During the regular season, Isaiah Joe provided reliable outside shooting but became unplayable in the playoffs due to defensive shortcomings. The team's 3-point performance plummeted from 6th in percentage and 10th in attempts during the regular season to just 33.8% in the playoffs. Acquiring elite shooters who also fit defensively might be difficult. However, the Thunder have alternatives: relying on internal development from their young players and the experience gained during their playoff run. This could lead to better shot selection and execution next postseason without needing major roster changes.
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The Phoenix Mercury are positioned as strong title contenders this season, possessing the talent to challenge top teams like the Minnesota Lynx and the New York Liberty. With a current record of 14-6, they are on pace to surpass last season's 19-win total and potentially finish as champions. The article highlights the franchise's history, noting periods of struggle where they became a lottery team, resulting in them receiving the No. 1 overall draft pick three times. The first pick in 2004 was used to select Diana Taurasi, who became the WNBA's all-time leading scorer and had an immediate impact, winning Rookie of the Year. Her selection marked the beginning of a legendary career and franchise success. In 2007, the Mercury again held the No. 1 pick, drafting Lindsey Harding. However, she was traded to Minnesota on draft day for Tangela Smith. Despite this trade, Phoenix won its first championship that same year. Harding later signed with the Mercury in 2016, playing 21 games. Following a poor 7-27 season in 2012, the Mercury secured another No. 1 pick, selecting Brittney Griner. Griner made a significant impact in her rookie season, and the Mercury won the championship the following year. Both Griner and Taurasi played pivotal roles in turning the franchise around. The article concludes by noting that while the Mercury may not need the top pick soon, any future player selected first overall would have substantial expectations to meet, given the legacy of previous top picks.
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The Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns are both reportedly still considering the possibility of reuniting with veteran point guard Chris Paul, according to NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer. It was also reported that Paul rejected an approach from the Charlotte Hornets earlier in the NBA free agency period. Paul himself stated at the American Black Film Festival that he plans to play "at most, a year" at this point in his career. Paul has played 20 NBA seasons, earning numerous accolades including 12 All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA honors, nine All-Defensive Team selections, and a spot on the league's 75th Anniversary Team. Last season, the 40-year-old played for the San Antonio Spurs, averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game while starting all 82 contests and averaging 28.0 minutes per game. Despite nearing retirement, Paul still draws league interest and has options to consider as he approaches what is expected to be his 21st and final NBA season.
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The Indiana Fever defeated the Atlanta Dream 99-82 in their fourth and final regular season matchup. After a close first half where Atlanta led by five points, the Fever surged offensively in the second half to secure the 17-point home victory. Atlanta guard Jordin Canada had an outstanding first half, scoring a career-high 26 points including six 3-pointers, helping the Dream build their halftime lead. However, Canada cooled off after halftime, finishing with a career-best 30 points total. The Dream initially extended their lead to seven in the third quarter before Indiana took control. The Fever benefited from a rare fully healthy roster. While Caitlin Clark, still returning from injury, had a relatively quiet night with 12 points and 9 assists (shooting 1-7 from three), other key players stepped up. Kelsey Mitchell led Indiana with 25 points, including a clutch late three-pointer. Aliyah Boston contributed 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists before fouling out late in the fourth quarter, receiving a standing ovation from the home crowd. Sophie Cunningham provided significant bench production with a 16-point double-double in nearly 30 minutes of play. For Atlanta, forward Rhyne Howard returned after leaving in the first half with a left leg injury, finishing with 14 points. Despite Canada's career performance, the Dream struggled overall with shooting efficiency, particularly in the paint, and were outrebounded.
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The Atlanta Dream, featuring Allisha Gray, will play against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever in a WNBA game on Friday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Viewers can watch the game live on Fubo. Caitlin Clark recently returned from a five-game injury absence. In her comeback game on Wednesday, she scored 10 points (4-12 shooting) as the Fever lost 80-61 to the Valkyries. Indiana has struggled this season, partly due to Clark missing significant time, but hopes to improve as she regains full strength. The Dream have won two of their last three games. They currently hold a 12-7 record, placing them three games ahead of the Fever in the Eastern Conference standings. Atlanta aims to extend their lead by handing Indiana its third consecutive loss. The article emphasizes this is a must-watch WNBA matchup. It promotes watching the game live via Fubo, including a free stream on ION, noting regional restrictions may apply and that compensation may be received for subscriptions or registrations made through site links.
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