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TOPSeattle Storm vs. Golden State Valkyries: Start Time, Streaming Live, TV Channel, How to Watch
The Seattle Storm (13-9) will play against the Golden State Valkyries (10-11) on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast locally on CW Seattle, KPIX+, and KMAX 31. Viewers can watch the WNBA season through Fubo, with select games also available on Prime Video. Officially licensed team merchandise is offered by Fanatics for fans. Injury updates include Katie Lou Samuelson of the Storm being out for the season due to a knee injury, while the Valkyries report no injuries. Tickets for WNBA games are available for purchase on Vivid Seats.
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TOPCeltics’ forward depth takes hit with latest departure
Drew Peterson, previously with the Boston Celtics, has signed a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets, as reported by Shams Charania. Hornets head coach Charles Lee, who previously coached Peterson as a Celtics assistant during the 2023-24 season, is believed to have influenced this move. This ends Peterson’s opportunity to potentially expand his role with the Celtics during Jayson Tatum’s extended absence. Peterson, an undrafted free agent from USC, appeared in 28 games across two seasons with Boston. In the 2024-25 season, he played 25 games (one start), averaging 7.4 minutes and 2.2 points per game. Despite limited playing time, he proved efficient as a three-point shooter, hitting 39.4% last season and maintaining a 42.1% career average from beyond the arc. He also demonstrated solid rebounding ability for a reserve forward, averaging 7.1 rebounds per 36 minutes. The Celtics face uncertainty in forward depth for the 2025-26 season, as Tatum is expected to miss most or all of it. While Sam Hauser remains and could start, the team added Georges Niang (trade) and Josh Minott (free agency), with Xavier Tillman, Miles Norris, and Torrey Craig also on the roster. Despite this thin depth, Peterson’s playing time in Boston was unlikely to increase significantly. Peterson’s two-way deal with Charlotte means he will likely split time between the NBA and the G League, earning a lower salary than a standard NBA contract. Meanwhile, the Celtics, amid potential cost-cutting, may focus on shedding salary rather than adding expensive talent, with a major roster-improvement move—such as pursuing a player like Damian Lillard—remaining a possibility.
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VIDEO: Caitlin Clark’s Gatorade Commercial With A’ja Wilson, Paige Bueckers Goes Viral
Gatorade's latest "Let Her Cook" commercial features WNBA stars Caitlin Clark, A'ja Wilson, Paige Bueckers, and Kahleah Copper, alongside legends Candace Parker, Lisa Leslie, and Elena Delle Donne, but intentionally avoids showing Clark and Wilson together in the same frame, highlighting underlying tensions between them. The campaign, which celebrates the WNBA's history through themes of sweat and dedication, includes only Clark and Wilson as active participants in the ad, while other players appear via archival game footage, underscoring the deliberate separation of the two current stars. This production choice coincides with the 2025 All-Star Game context, where Clark leads all fan voting with 1,293,526 votes and serves as team captain, while Wilson earned her seventh All-Star selection; the pair were on opposing teams in the 2024 game, adding to the rivalry narrative. Paige Bueckers, the 2025 draft's top pick, is also featured in the commercial and made history as a rookie All-Star on Napheesa Collier's team, becoming the sixth UConn player selected first overall since Breanna Stewart in 2016. Beyond the ad, Gatorade plans to release limited "Let Her Cook" bottles exclusively on its website on July 19, leveraging the WNBA's rising popularity and the star appeal of players like Clark and Wilson for marketing. The dynamic between Clark and Wilson reflects broader issues of race and recognition in women's basketball, highlighted by Wilson's response to Clark's unprecedented eight-year, $28 million Nike deal, which includes signature shoes launching in 2026; Wilson commented that Black women like her often feel overlooked despite their achievements. Wilson's own signature shoe, the Nike A'One, launched in May 2025, making her the first Black WNBA player since Sheryl Swoopes to receive one, despite her three MVP awards and two championships, while Clark's deal came early in her career amid record viewership for her games and the Indiana Fever. All-Star voting patterns further illustrate the divide, with Clark topping fan votes but receiving fewer from peers, indicating a gap between public popularity and professional respect within the league.
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Bullets hit bullseye by signing NBL winner
The Brisbane Bullets have signed former NBL MVP and champion Jaylen Adams as their second import for the 2025/26 season, marking a significant acquisition under coach Stu Lash. Adams previously won the NBL championship and MVP award with the Sydney Kings in 2022, praised for his versatility and clutch performances. He returned to the Kings for the past two seasons but couldn't replicate his MVP form with the underachieving team, though he did score 43 points in a game against Adelaide in January. Prior to his NBL career, Adams played 44 NBA games between 2018 and 2021 for the Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Milwaukee Bucks. The Kings' offseason signings of Matthew Dellavedova and Kendric Davis signaled Adams' departure. Adams expressed his motivation for joining the Bullets, stating he sees the team building something special and is "hungry to lead from the front, compete every night, and chase another title." He joins Casey Prather, Tyrell Harrison, and Mitch Norton as key components of the Bullets' roster. This signing is considered the biggest yet for coach Lash, who aims to end the Bullets' six-year playoff drought. The Bullets are reportedly still seeking a top-quality back-court partner for Adams and have been linked with Australian NBA player Alex Ducas. Ducas, a rookie who played 21 games for the Oklahoma City Thunder last season (including their championship win, though he didn't feature in the playoffs), attended the same US college as Patty Mills and Jock Landale.
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‘It Hurts’ – Jalen Green Breaks Silence on Shocking Trade From Rockets to Suns in a Move That Involved Kevin Durant
On June 22, just hours before Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, Kevin Durant was traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-round picks. Jalen Green expressed deep emotions about leaving Houston during his first media appearance at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. He stated, "It hurts. Houston is home to me and forever will be home to me," acknowledging his NBA career beginnings there while recognizing the trade as a business reality. Green's departure followed a 2024-25 regular season where he averaged 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, but his playoff performance dipped significantly to 13.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, potentially influencing Houston's decision to trade him. Despite sadness over leaving Houston, Green conveyed strong enthusiasm about joining the Suns, calling them a "great organization" with "great people." He predicted the team would "surprise a lot of people and make a lot of noise" in the 2025-26 season, emphasizing excitement about playing "winning basketball" for a playoff-caliber team. Green specifically highlighted his anticipated backcourt partnership with Devin Booker, declaring they would form a "deadly scoring duo." He elaborated that both players attract double teams and complement each other's scoring abilities, forcing defenses to choose which star to prioritize stopping. The Suns' commitment to Booker includes a record two-year, $145 million extension through 2029-30. Green enters the first year of a three-year, $105.3 million contract with Phoenix, solidifying the team's investment in the new backcourt pairing.
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Dov Cariño, Karl Absalon believe UAAP familiarity will power U23 squad in Mandiri Cup
San Miguel's basketball team emphasized their focus on achieving redemption rather than specifically aiming to end TNT's Grand Slam aspirations in recent competitions. Coach Chot Reyes dismissed discussions about relying on player RHJ, instead highlighting his own coaching record of six All-Filipino championship titles as a point of pride. Gilas Pilipinas Men's team faces significant fatigue challenges ahead of the Asia Cup, according to head coach Tim Cone, who cited the physical toll of continuous tournaments. PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial guaranteed the league will maintain 12 teams for its 50th season despite uncertainties surrounding the potential sale of the Terrafirma franchise. San Miguel star June Mar Fajardo reassured fans after experiencing hamstring tightness during their Game 7 victory against Barangay Ginebra, indicating the injury isn't serious. UAAP teams dominated NCAA opponents in the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup quarterfinals, with La Salle, UP, UST, and NU all securing victories to advance in the tournament. La Salle claimed the Filoil tournament's top seed by defeating UST, while UP showed strengthening momentum heading into the quarterfinal stage of the competition. La Salle maintained an undefeated record while NU secured the last semifinal berth in the Filoil Preseason Cup, completing the final four lineup. NU finished as runners-up in the BLIA Cup tournament, with player Tin Cayabyab leading them to the finals through a standout 31-point performance. The NCAA will implement major format changes including group stages, play-in games, and expanded playoffs for its upcoming season, signaling a new competitive era. San Beda University celebrated double general championship titles as hosting responsibilities transferred from Lyceum to Mapua University for NCAA events. Mapua University's team was involved in a bench-clearing brawl during a game against a Chinese university team, resulting in an on-court altercation.
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Nets enter NBA Summer League with plenty to watch — and a feel-good story
The Brooklyn Nets are approaching the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas with a focus on player development and evaluation rather than simply winning games, particularly important given their young roster and rebuild heavily dependent on a single draft class. The team is bringing all five of their record-setting first-round draft pick rookies to compete, with four of them expected to participate in games. They will be joined by three other players who played for the Nets last season and an additional player who saw action with the Los Angeles Lakers. This roster composition means there will be numerous storylines to follow during the Summer League, starting with the Nets' opening game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2. This game serves as the undercard for the much-anticipated debut of Cooper Flagg playing against Bronny James and the Lakers.
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Thunder making a mockery of new CBA with Jalen Williams max extension
While most NBA teams are cutting payroll to avoid luxury tax penalties, the Oklahoma City Thunder are spending aggressively early in the offseason, signing expensive contract extensions with eligible players. The latest deal is a five-year, up to $287 million max rookie extension for All-Star Jalen Williams. The Thunder have committed a potential total of $877.21 million in new contracts, with $822 million of that going to their core trio: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams. This spending spree has raised concerns about compliance with the league's new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), with some pointing to the Boston Celtics as a cautionary tale. The CBA, implemented in summer 2023, aims to prevent dynasties and promote parity by imposing financial penalties and restrictions through mechanisms like the luxury tax, repeater tax, and specific hard salary caps known as the first and second tax aprons. Given their massive commitments, it appears the Thunder are destined to become a second-apron team. However, projections show the Thunder are financially positioned to avoid these penalties. Even with all roster spots filled, they are estimated to be about $8 million below the first tax apron for the 2025-26 season. When the extensions for Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and Holmgren start in 2026-27, they are still projected to have roughly $17 million of space below the second apron. This flexibility stems from having several players on cost-efficient, easily movable contracts (like Isaiah Hartenstein, whose $28.5 million team option could be declined), numerous players still on rookie-scale deals, and a wealth of draft capital. Consequently, despite their significant spending on their star trio, the Thunder have the means to keep their championship-contending team together while completely avoiding the restrictive second apron, defying the CBA's intent to prevent sustained dominance.
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Chet Holmgren Secures $250 Million Extension with Oklahoma City Thunder After Historic Title Run
The Oklahoma City Thunder have agreed to a fully guaranteed five-year maximum rookie contract extension with center Chet Holmgren, potentially worth $250 million. This deal solidifies the 23-year-old as a franchise cornerstone and demonstrates the Thunder's commitment to maintaining their competitive rise. Holmgren's extension follows a breakout postseason where he anchored the Thunder's defense and provided consistent production on both ends of the court. Despite missing significant regular season time due to a hip injury, he returned in February and played a pivotal role in the Thunder's championship run, averaging 15.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in 23 playoff games. His versatility and rim protection were instrumental in securing the franchise's first title, highlighted by key performances like a five-block Game 7 in the NBA Finals. The contract begins after the 2025-26 season, increasing his salary from $13.7 million to an estimated $41 million annually (25% of the salary cap). It contains no player or team options and could escalate to 35% of the cap if Holmgren wins MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, or makes an All-NBA team. This structure mirrors the supermax extension recently given to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Drafted second overall in 2022, Holmgren missed his rookie season with a foot injury but finished second in Rookie of the Year voting in 2023-24, averaging 16.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks while shooting nearly 38% from three-point range. With Holmgren and Gilgeous-Alexander secured long-term, the Thunder are poised to extend fellow 2022 draftee Jalen Williams this summer. The franchise now faces managing a rapidly escalating payroll as its young stars mature, though abundant draft assets and a deep roster provide flexibility to remain competitive. General Manager Sam Presti's draft-and-development strategy has reached a new peak, making Oklahoma City the second-youngest NBA champion ever.
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Chris Beard on NCAA Rule Changes: ‘Anything that can help the right team win a close game’
The NCAA has implemented several significant rule changes for men's college basketball. Teams are now permitted to challenge out-of-bounds calls and goaltending or basket interference rulings for video review. The NCAA also modified the continuous motion rule during shot attempts. Furthermore, starting in the 2026-27 season, the regular season will expand to a maximum of 32 games, allowing teams more flexibility to schedule non-conference games. The challenge system operates with specific consequences: a successful review grants the team an additional challenge for the remainder of the game, including overtime, while an unsuccessful challenge results in the loss of the ability to challenge any further calls. Importantly, these coach-initiated challenges do not affect the officials' standard use of instant replay for other situations like timing mistakes, scoring errors, shot clock violations, determining 2-point vs. 3-point field goals, or flagrant fouls. Ole Miss coach Chris Beard highlighted the pressure this new system creates for coaching staffs. He emphasized the importance of using challenges wisely, noting that losing a challenge is undesirable, but a successful challenge on a "glaring call" regains the opportunity. Beard anticipates tense moments as staff must make rapid "thumbs up or thumbs down" decisions on whether to challenge, without time for lengthy discussion.
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GG Jackson makes summer league statement the Grizzlies can’t ignore
GG Jackson emerged as a polarizing figure for the Memphis Grizzlies starting in 2024, seizing consistent playing time after injuries to Ja Morant, Marcus Smart, and Desmond Bane. He averaged 14.6 points and earned NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors, then led the Grizzlies' summer league team to the championship game while securing All-Summer League First Team recognition. However, a broken foot sustained in an open run sidelined him until January 2025. Upon returning, Jackson struggled to adapt to a Grizzlies squad contending in the Western Conference's top three—a stark contrast to his rookie-year role as a primary option on a losing team. These difficulties fueled internal frustration, raising questions about whether Memphis might part ways with him this offseason. Despite this, Jackson voluntarily rejoined the 2025 summer league to demonstrate his ongoing value to the franchise. During the Grizzlies' rookie introduction, GM Zach Kleiman highlighted Jackson as the team's youngest player at age 20. He is 15 months younger than the next closest teammate on their summer league roster, which includes draft picks Cedric Coward, Javon Small, and Jahmai Mashack. Before his injury, fans debated Jackson’s potential as a starting small forward—a role eventually filled by All-Rookie First Team member Jaylen Wells after Jackson’s setback. Jackson addresses Memphis’s longstanding need for a wing scorer, a void unmet since Rudy Gay’s 2013 trade. In summer league play, he’s averaging 23.5 points on 57.5% field-goal shooting (including 37.5% from three), echoing the promise he showed pre-injury. His current performance underscores why the Grizzlies should persist in developing him, as his unique skillset—critical for championship contention—could determine whether the franchise ascends to elite status. Jackson’s growth extends beyond on-court skills, encompassing improved mentality and approach to the game.
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Maple Leafs announcer Joe Bowen calls out fans for ‘very disappointing’ crowd
Toronto Maple Leafs radio announcer Joe Bowen publicly criticized the team's fanbase for a "very disappointing" lack of energy during their Game 3 Stanley Cup Playoffs loss to the Boston Bruins on Wednesday. Bowen took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration, stating the crowd was "VERY DISAPPOINTING" and emphasizing that fans should be "PRO ACTIVE" in giving energy to the team rather than waiting to be reactive. While acknowledging Bowen's point about the unusually quiet playoff atmosphere resembling a "library," the report highlights a significant caveat omitted from his critique: extremely high ticket prices. Multiple sources, including reactions to Bowen's comments and a journalist's tweet, pointed out that seats cost $427 per person for the game. This price point was deemed "ridiculous" and identified as a key factor pricing out the average fan, especially for a non-elimination game. The article contrasts the playoff atmosphere with the Leafs' regular season attendance, noting the team filled Scotiabank Arena to 99.8% capacity (18,789 fans on average out of 18,819 seats) across 41 home games in 2023-24. It argues that the "very disappointing" playoff crowd energy stems primarily from prohibitive ticket prices, not a lack of fan support in general, suggesting Bowen's criticism failed to acknowledge this economic barrier preventing fans from filling the arena vocally.
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Sparks see ‘opportunity’ against Napheesa Collier and the Lynx
The Los Angeles Sparks are preparing to face the first-place Minnesota Lynx on Thursday at Crypto.com Arena, with coach Lynne Roberts calling it a "huge opportunity" to secure a statement home victory against the league leaders. Roberts noted the team is improving, citing recent road wins against the Indiana Fever that split their last four games. Key to the Sparks' progress is the return of several players, including starting point guard Julie Allemand (who missed time for EuroBasket), newly signed reserve Julie Vanloo, and guard/forward Rae Burrell—all recently integrated after injuries or roster changes. Roberts emphasized this brings the roster closer to preseason expectations, though the Sparks hold a 6-13 record and sit 10th in the standings. Historically, the Sparks have struggled against the Lynx this season, losing all three previous matchups by significant margins: 89-75 at home on May 18, 101-78 on the road on June 14, and 82-66 on June 21. Forward Azurá Stevens stressed the need to "exceed their physicality" in the upcoming game. Stevens also praised teammate Kelsey Plum, who led the Sparks with 15 points in their last loss to Minnesota and was recently named an All-Star reserve for the fourth consecutive year. Highlighting Plum’s leadership and work ethic, Stevens expressed pride in her recognition while averaging team-highs of 20.1 points and 5.6 assists.
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FilOil: Letran is NCAA’s top seed, La Salle sweeps UAAP elims
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Where do OKC Thunder Rank Among Western Conference Teams after Free Agency?
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured the top seed in the Western Conference during the 2024-25 regular season and went on to win their first NBA championship. Despite postseason challenges, they retained 14 of 15 title-winning players, replacing Dillon Jones with 2025 draft pick Thomas Sorber, positioning them as early favorites to repeat as champions. Repeating as champions is historically difficult, with the Golden State Warriors (2017-2018) being the last team to achieve back-to-back titles. The Thunder face formidable Western Conference rivals who made significant offseason moves: The Denver Nuggets acquired Cam Johnson (via Michael Porter Jr. trade), signed Bruce Brown, and traded for Jonas Valanciunas. The Houston Rockets traded for Kevin Durant while adding Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela after securing the West’s No. 2 seed. ESPN’s offseason tier rankings placed Oklahoma City alone as the "clear-cut favorite," citing their league-deepest rotation and minimal roster changes beyond drafting Nikola Topic. The second tier included Houston, Denver, and Minnesota Timberwolves (whom OKC defeated 4-1 in the 2025 Western Conference Finals). Tier three ("the old guard") featured the LA Clippers, Lakers, Warriors, and Mavericks. Teams like Memphis and San Antonio are also expected to contend for playoffs if healthy. With the Western Conference’s heightened competitiveness, OKC’s 2026 title hopes hinge on strategic regular-season management—leveraging depth to secure wins while resting key players (like Alex Caruso) for postseason readiness.
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Thomas Bryant's Pacers fate now sealed following Indiana's latest moves
The Indiana Pacers are unlikely to re-sign center Thomas Bryant in free agency following several roster moves addressing their center position after Myles Turner's departure to the Milwaukee Bucks. The team acquired Jay Huff, re-signed James Wiseman, exercised their team option on Tony Bradley, and extended a qualifying offer to Isaiah Jackson, making him a restricted free agent. This influx of big men, particularly the addition of floor-spacer Huff, leaves little room for Bryant. While Bryant performed his role well after being traded to the Pacers last December and had a notable performance in the conference finals, he fell out of the playoff rotation and is not considered a long-term fit. The Pacers are expected to rely on multiple centers next season (Huff, Wiseman, Bradley, Jackson) to provide specific skills like floor spacing, size, rebounding, and energy, viewing it as a gap year to evaluate options. Replacing Turner, who offered unique rim protection and floor-stretching abilities, is acknowledged as a significant challenge for the Pacers. However, the current roster construction and the lack of a distinct role for Bryant strongly indicate he has likely played his last game for Indiana.
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Indiana Pacers Announce Partnership With Longtime Colts' Sponsor
The Indiana Pacers are changing their jersey sponsor for the upcoming season. They are replacing Spokenote, which featured QR codes on the jerseys last season as part of the NBA's sponsorship program, with Lucas Oil. Lucas Oil is an Indianapolis-based automotive chemical company well-known locally, particularly for holding the naming rights to Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts. While the Pacers and Colts don't share ownership, Lucas Oil is expanding its presence in the city through this new partnership. The stadium, built in 2008, has a capacity of 67,000 and is considered state-of-the-art; Lucas Oil holds the naming rights but is not responsible for maintenance. Pacers CEO Mel Raines praised Lucas Oil as "a true Indiana success story" representing "performance, innovation, and community" in the team's official announcement. The organization expressed enthusiasm about elevating the partnership and featuring the Lucas Oil name on the front of their jerseys. The new sponsor patch is expected to be significantly more low-key than last season's QR code and should fit better aesthetically on the Pacers' jerseys, which is noted as an important factor for fans purchasing team merchandise.
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Perpetual Help stretches winning streak to 5 with rout of Mapua
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Cubs players do double take as Wolves’ Anthony Edwards runs stairs at Target Field
During a baseball game between the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs, Cubs television announcer Boog Sciambi revealed that Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards was present at Minneapolis's Target Field. Sciambi reported that Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong was wearing Edwards' signature AE1 shoes ("a peach, pinkish-colored spike") during pregame activities. Edwards himself was observed running stairs in the ballpark for cardio exercise. Players on the field during early batting practice noticed Edwards in the stands, wondering if it was him, confirming his presence and workout. The article highlights Edwards' offseason dedication, evidenced by this training session in 85-degree July heat, as he prepares for the 2025-26 NBA season. Edwards faces significant pressure entering his sixth season (age 24) after leading the Timberwolves to consecutive Western Conference Finals. The challenge is heightened by the loss of Nickeil Alexander-Walker and a largely unchanged roster, coupled with what is described as the toughest Western Conference field since Edwards was drafted first overall in 2020. The question posed is whether Edwards can elevate his game enough to make the Timberwolves a top-four team in the West next season. His strenuous July workout is seen as a strong indication of his commitment to achieving that goal.
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Tawa’s Club Volleyball Dots: The growth of AAUs, getting ready and getting rated
The 50th AAU Girls Volleyball National Championships begin in Orlando, with 39 teams competing in the 14 Open division and 13 teams in the 18 Open division starting Wednesday. Historically, AAU Nationals were considered a low-key warm-up for USA Volleyball's Junior Olympics until the Junior Volleyball Association (JVA) formed in 2006. Many Midwest clubs then left USA Volleyball, abandoning Junior Olympics participation. An agreement between AAU and JVA reshaped the landscape: AAU supported JVA's April World Challenge, while JVA endorsed AAU Nationals and discontinued its own June championships. This partnership dramatically boosted AAU participation—from 612 teams in 2009 to over 1,200 in 2010, growing to a record 4,200 teams this year. The surge made AAU Nationals essential for college recruiting. USA Volleyball's 2016 decision to move its 18s championship to late April initially had minimal impact on AAU 18s attendance. However, AAU shifted its 18s to a standalone May event in 2019. Post-COVID, reverting to June led to declining elite participation: only 168 18s teams competed in 2021, with just 32 in top divisions. This year, 40 teams are in 18 Open and Premier (13 in the top tier), though lower divisions like 18 Club and Classic grew to 181 teams. Changes for 18s are anticipated, including adjustments to JVA's World Challenge. The 18 Open field lacks top-tier representation. Only two of its 13 teams—Kairos 18 Alpha (3rd at Junior Nationals) and USANY 18 Fortitude (47th)—attended Junior Nationals. No Junior Nationals Open division teams or traditional JVA powerhouses (e.g., KiVA, Tri-State) are competing. A club director attributes this to 18s becoming a "dying age group," as players prefer ending their season earlier unless teams include juniors. The 18 Open format involves two days of pool play (6-team and 7-team pools). The top four from each pool advance to two four-team pools on day three, culminating in semifinals and finals on the last day.
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New East tiers: How injuries, offseason movement reshaped the conference
The 2025 NBA postseason saw devastating Achilles injuries to stars Damian Lillard, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton, drastically altering the Eastern Conference landscape before the offseason. With the fallout settled, the conference—aiming to challenge the dominant West—now features a reshuffled hierarchy assessed through six tiers. The Cleveland Cavaliers, coming off a 64-win season and top seed status, face challenges including Darius Garland's extended absence due to toe surgery and the loss of backup Ty Jerome to Memphis. However, the acquisition of Lonzo Ball (traded for Isaac Okoro) offsets Jerome's departure. Despite roster adjustments reducing luxury-tax burdens, Cleveland remains a top contender with stars Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, alongside role players like Max Strus and De'Andre Hunter under coach Kenny Atkinson. The New York Knicks, fresh off their first conference finals appearance in 25 years, fired their coach while declaring a championship mandate. Enhanced depth with additions Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele addresses weaknesses exposed by Indiana in the playoffs. With rivals weakened—Indiana losing Haliburton and Myles Turner (to Milwaukee), and Boston without Tatum, Porzingis (traded), Holiday (traded), and Kornet (to Spurs)—New York, under new coach Mike Brown, faces "Finals or bust" pressure in an open contention lane. The Orlando Magic capitalized on the East's upheaval by trading Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four first-round picks to Memphis for star Desmond Bane. This aggressive move aims to elevate a team that showed promise last season with elite defense but struggled with perimeter shooting. Bane's arrival provides spacing and a clear top-four core alongside Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs. If healthy, Orlando is poised for 50+ wins. The Atlanta Hawks made the most significant offseason leap, acquiring Kristaps Porzingis and Nickeil Alexander-Walker to bolster defense, plus sharpshooter Luke Kennard. They also secured New Orleans' unprotected 2026 first-round pick while minimally sacrificing draft position. Building on last season's success pairing Dyson Daniels with Trae Young, Atlanta now boasts an elite defensive scheme and deep rotation, positioning them as serious contenders in the wide-open East.
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Sanson's Liv-ing her dream and feeling at home at Lavington
Liv Sanson, the 16-year-old daughter of Lavington Panthers stalwart Tim Sanson, has fulfilled her long-held dream of playing for the club by making her A-grade netball debut this season. Growing up immersed in the Panthers environment, she vividly recalls watching the netballers train while her father attended football practice. Sanson received her first A-grade call-up in round seven against North Albury. Despite initial nerves, she performed strongly, shooting 28 goals to help secure victory for the Panthers. She adjusted to the higher level, finding it challenging but within her capabilities after settling into the game. Having started the season in C-grade as goal shooter, Sanson has transitioned to playing goal attack in A-grade alongside Maddy Plunkett. She has now gained experience competing against top teams like Wangaratta and Yarrawonga, including facing quality defenders such as Sarah Senini, which she describes as a valuable experience.
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Biker slain at funeral for Hells Angels' leader in San Jose
A Hells Angels member, Steve Tausan, was fatally shot on Saturday at Oak Hill Cemetery in San Jose during the funeral of Jeffrey "Jethro" Pettigrew, president of the Hells Angels' San Jose chapter. Tausan, a 52-year-old bail bondsman, succumbed to his injuries at a hospital later that day. Police confirmed they were interviewing witnesses but had no suspects or arrests. The shooting occurred despite a significant police presence as thousands gathered for Pettigrew's funeral, who was himself killed in a September 23 shooting at a Nevada casino by a member of rival motorcycle club Vagos—an incident that prompted cancellation of a regional motorcycle rally. Witness Valerie Hoffman expressed shock at the funeral shooting, citing an unspoken "code of ethics" prohibiting such acts. Investigators noted the crime scene "appeared to have been tampered with," though details were not disclosed. According to reports, Tausan had previously been acquitted of a 1997 murder charge stemming from a beating death at a strip club, after a jury accepted his self-defense claim.
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Storm 79-70 Liberty (Jul 6, 2025) Game Recap
Gabby Williams scored 16 points and Nneka Ogwumike added 15 to lead the Seattle Storm (12-7) to a 79-70 victory over the New York Liberty (12-6) on Sunday. The Storm trailed by three points at halftime but dominated the third quarter, outscoring New York 22-6. The Liberty shot only 2-for-18 from the field during the period, missing their first 10 shots. Skylar Diggins, Ogwumike, and Williams contributed offensively for Seattle, while rookie Dominique Malonga, the No. 2 draft pick, made a significant impact despite not playing in the first half. Malonga, a 6-foot-6 French forward, recorded 11 points and eight rebounds in just 10 minutes of action in the second half. She also altered several shots defensively against Breanna Stewart, who finished with only eight points – her first single-digit game since the 2024 season opener. New York suffered a setback when reserve forward Isabelle Harrison suffered a right knee injury with 2:31 remaining in the third quarter. She required assistance to leave the court and did not return, with coach Sandy Brondello stating Harrison would undergo imaging. The first half featured nine lead changes. New York established a slight cushion thanks to Sabrina Ionescu's four-point play with 13.8 seconds left in the second quarter, giving them a 44-39 lead before halftime (44-41). Ionescu, who missed the teams' first meeting two weeks prior due to a neck injury, scored 20 points in the first half but managed only two points in the second half, finishing with a team-high 22 points, along with five rebounds and four assists.
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Virginia Men’s Basketball Makes Another International Splash with Belgium’s Thijs de Ridder
Virginia has signed 22-year-old Belgian forward Thijs de Ridder, who previously played for Bilbao Basket in Spain's Liga Endesa. De Ridder averaged 9.3 points per game and shot 38% from three-point range during the 2024-25 season. He represented Belgium at the 2023 FIBA U20 Games, averaging 16.9 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. His NCAA eligibility is pending approval, but his commitment is considered a significant offseason acquisition for head coach Ryan Odom. De Ridder joins German center Johann Grünloh as Virginia's second major international frontcourt addition, addressing concerns about the team's size. The Cavaliers' frontcourt now also includes UC-Irvine transfer Devin Tillis, Kansas State transfer Ugonna Onyenso, freshman Silas Barksdale, and returning sophomore Carter Lang. Standing 6'8" and 216 pounds, de Ridder is projected as a potential starter who can stretch the floor (35.6% three-point shooter in Liga Endesa) and play power forward. His versatility, ability to drive to the basket, rebounding, and three-point threat are expected to complement Virginia's offense and bolster interior play. Odom has a history of successfully recruiting international players, a trend continued at Virginia with assistance from associate head coach Griff Aldrich and assistants Bryce Crawford and Matt Henry. De Ridder's signing nearly completes next year's roster, which features a deep backcourt including transfers Dallin Hall (BYU), Jacari White (North Dakota State), and Malik Thomas (San Francisco, 19.9 PPG). His addition strengthens Virginia's frontcourt versatility and rebounding while creating opportunities for the team's shooters and playmakers.
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MPBL: Baracael, Cabanag connive as Caloocan silences Paranaque
Dwight Ramos has hinted at the possibility of joining the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) in 2026. After another semifinals exit, Yeng Guiao stated his intention to stay the course with his team, planning only minor tweaks rather than making big changes. TNT has returned to the PBA Finals, keeping their hopes of achieving a Grand Slam alive. LA Tenorio played a pivotal role in another miraculous comeback win for Barangay Ginebra. Ahead of the first Gilas Pilipinas practice under his leadership, Tim Cone expressed a realistic outlook, stating "We're grasping at straws". De La Salle University (La Salle) maintained their unbeaten record, while National University (NU) secured the final spot in the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup semifinals cast. National University (NU) finished as the runner-up in the BLIA Cup tournament. Tin Cayabyab led National University (NU) to the BLIA Cup final by scoring 31 points in their semifinal game. De La Salle University (La Salle) decisively defeated Far Eastern University (FEU) to remain unbeaten and advance to the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup quarterfinals. Andrew Estrella, head coach of the UE Jr. Warriors, has been appointed as the new chief tactician for the Letran Squires. A bench-clearing brawl occurred during a game involving Mapua University and a visiting Chinese university team. The University of Santo Tomas (UST) became the first team from the UAAP group to secure a ticket to the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup playoffs.
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Tiongson, Cahilig to San Miguel; Terrafirma adds Romeo, Manuel
Dwight Ramos has indicated a potential move to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) in 2026. Following another semifinals exit, coach Yeng Guiao plans minor adjustments rather than major changes for his team. TNT has advanced to the PBA Finals, keeping their Grand Slam aspirations alive. LA Tenorio delivered a standout performance to lead Ginebra's comeback victory, marking another miraculous achievement. Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone expressed realism about the team's challenging situation ahead of their first practice session. La Salle maintained an undefeated record, while National University (NU) secured the final semifinals slot in the Filoil tournament. NU finished as runner-up in the BLIA Cup competition. Tin Cayabyab scored 31 points to propel NU to the BLIA Cup finals. La Salle decisively defeated Far Eastern University (FEU) to remain unbeaten and advance to the Filoil quarterfinals. UE Jr. Warriors head coach Andrew Estrella has been appointed as the new chief tactician for the Letran Squires. A bench-clearing brawl occurred during a game involving Mapua and a Chinese university team. University of Santo Tomas (UST) became the first UAAP team to qualify for the Filoil playoffs.
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