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The New York Knicks unexpectedly lost to the Indiana Pacers 4-2 in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals despite entering as favorites, resulting in head coach Tom Thibodeau's firing. Mike Brown was named as his replacement for the upcoming season. Former NBA player Baron Davis disputed that Thibodeau's tactics caused the defeat. Instead, Davis attributed the loss to the Pacers' defensive strategy that targeted Jalen Brunson—who averaged 30.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 5.7 assists in the series—by using half-court pressure to limit his space. Davis explained on Podcast P that Indiana turned the half-court into an "extra defender," forcing Brunson into cramped pick-and-roll situations despite the court's size. Davis emphasized that Brunson lacked backcourt support, stating, "Nobody on the Knicks outside of Jalen Brunson could bring the ball up." This allowed the Pacers to induce turnovers (Brunson averaged 4.0 per game) and disrupt New York's offensive flow. The pressure forced extended possessions where Brunson "dribbled all shot clock," denying him opportunities to pass or create separation. The isolation-heavy offense also impacted teammates like Karl-Anthony Towns, who faced constant one-on-one matchups. Davis concluded that Brunson's unsustainable workload as the "lone warrior"—compounded by turnovers and defensive traps—directly caused the Knicks' elimination.
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Stanley Pringle has signed with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, taking control of his future. In the PBA Finals, Mo Tautuaa expressed frustration over a late offensive interference call that nullified his potential go-ahead basket in Game 1. The PBA league office upheld the call upon review. Consequently, TNT claimed victory in the PBA Finals opener after the review overturned the basket. Despite the loss, the San Miguel Beermen stated their focus is on redemption, not on ending TNT's Grand Slam bid. In collegiate sports, the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) welcomed the UAAP's openness to potentially including golf as a sport. In the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup, La Salle, UP, UST, and NU all secured victories against NCAA teams in the quarterfinals. La Salle specifically defeated UST to secure the tournament's top seed heading into the next round, while UP gained momentum before the quarterfinals. La Salle remained unbeaten, and NU secured the final spot in the Filoil semifinals. NU also finished as the runner-up in the BLIA Cup. The NCAA is set to return to the Rizal Memorial Coliseum. The league is also ushering in a new era with significant format changes under "NCAA 101," introducing group stages, play-in tournaments, and expanded playoffs. San Beda celebrated a double championship in the general championships, while LPU turned over hosting duties for the next season to Mapua.
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Bruce Thornton's decision to return to Ohio State for his senior season is crucial for head coach Jake Diebler's second year, significantly boosting the team's prospects for Big Ten success and its first NCAA Tournament bid since 2022. Thornton, the senior point guard, faced NBA opportunities but chose to come back with a focus on team success rather than personal gain, leaving his "ego behind." Thornton is emphasized as a foundational leader, a rare fourth-year starter and consistent scorer at a Power 5 school. He expressed excitement about the team's new transfers and freshmen, stressing the importance of building chemistry and camaraderie daily. His loyalty to Ohio State and selfless approach are seen as vital catalysts for team unity. Thornton expects the team, particularly the backcourt blending Big Ten experience and youthful energy, to function without "egos," eliminating issues over roles, minutes, or shots. He stated the priority is simply getting the job done collectively, regardless of individual scoring. Newcomers are highlighted as key pieces: Freshman A'mare Bynum, Ohio State's top high school recruit, is anticipated to make an immediate impact with his physical style and skill. Transfer Christoph Tilly, who averaged 12.5 points at Santa Clara, is expected to upgrade the Buckeyes' post scoring. Thornton's return and leadership are portrayed as the best-case scenario for Diebler, providing stability after three seasons of unfulfilled expectations that led to Chris Holtmann's dismissal. He remains the program's backbone amidst ongoing pressure for success.
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The Miami Heat, having failed to acquire a star player this offseason, are still aiming for a significant future move, potentially by 2026. While long-shot targets like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic exist, Trae Young emerges as an interesting "Plan B" trade option for the team. Recent reports indicate the Atlanta Hawks and Trae Young have not yet held "substantive talks" on a contract extension. Although an extension could still happen and would signal commitment, the current lack of discussions naturally creates uncertainty about Young's future with the Hawks. Despite the Hawks adding Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Kristaps Porzingis this summer, suggesting efforts to build around Young, offering him the eligible four-year, $229 million supermax extension represents a much larger financial commitment than acquiring supporting players. Any hesitation from the Hawks could open the door for the Heat. If the Hawks show reluctance, the Heat could pursue Young as a running mate for Bam Adebayo (and possibly Tyler Herro). Landing a star in the near future for Miami is most likely to occur through such a scenario. While Young wouldn't be their first choice if Giannis or Doncic were available, he wouldn't be the worst alternative. Given the Heat's apparent unwillingness to take another "gap" year, they are expected to seek a move soon. Young fits as a logical secondary option. The Heat still lacks a true primary scorer and dynamic playmaker, a role Young could potentially fill. Although Young isn't considered a franchise-altering superstar, which might explain Atlanta's potential hesitation on a massive extension, the Heat could see value in adding him to their developing supporting cast if they believe he's worth the investment. As the Heat lines up options for a blockbuster move in the next year, Young is likely included in their hypothetical plans.
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Bleacher Report's recent ranking of the top 100 NBA players of all time placed Kobe Bryant at 11th, sparking significant debate and criticism, particularly from his former teammate Shaquille O'Neal. O'Neal publicly denounced the ranking on social media platform X, calling Kobe's placement at 11th "criminal." The Bleacher Report top 10 list, in order, consisted of Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Bill Russell, Shaquille O'Neal, Tim Duncan, Larry Bird, Wilt Chamberlain, and Stephen Curry. Kobe Bryant followed at 11th, ahead of Hakeem Olajuwon, Kevin Durant, Oscar Robertson, and Jerry West. The article argues that leaving Bryant out of the top 10 is a significant oversight, regardless of personal opinions about the Lakers legend. It contends that Bryant's combination of statistics, accolades, championships, and the "eye test" should guarantee him a top-10 spot, validating O'Neal's criticism. The piece emphasizes that players who competed with or against Bryant consistently place him among the very elite. It acknowledges that Kobe's standing in historical rankings has been negatively impacted for some by the increased focus on advanced statistics since his retirement. While certain efficiency metrics don't favor him, the article counters that those who witnessed his career firsthand unhesitatingly rank him at the highest level. The piece concludes by mentioning 2025 top draft pick Cooper Flagg's challenging Summer League debut. Former Mavericks owner Mark Cuban suggested Flagg needs development time, drawing a parallel (while cautioning against direct comparison) to Kobe Bryant's own early career progression with the Lakers, noting it took Bryant a couple of years to become a polished player.
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The Los Angeles Lakers have addressed their frontcourt needs this offseason by signing center Deandre Ayton and forward Jake LaRavia, though they lost veteran Dorian Finney-Smith to the Houston Rockets. While the roster appears more balanced overall, defensive concerns remain. Fox Sports analyst Jason McIntyre proposed that adding veteran shooting guard Bradley Beal—should he be bought out by the Phoenix Suns—would elevate the Lakers to favorites in the Western Conference. McIntyre argued this move would build on LA's 50-win season and enhance their offensive firepower alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić. However, McIntyre's suggestion faced immediate backlash. On "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," co-panelist Chris Broussard dismissed the idea, and NBA fans overwhelmingly criticized Beal's defensive shortcomings and questioned his competitive drive. Social media reactions highlighted skepticism that adding Beal would resolve the team's defensive liabilities.
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Singer-actress Coco Jones and NBA star Donovan Mitchell announced their engagement on Friday, July 14, 2025. They shared the news on social media, posting photos and videos that captured the moment Mitchell proposed by getting down on one knee. The engagement occurred at a tropical resort setting, characterized by palm trees, a lavish pool, and ocean views. This revelation surprised many fans, as Jones and Mitchell had previously kept the details of their relationship private and away from public scrutiny. A representative for the couple confirmed to PEOPLE that Mitchell proposed to Jones during a vacation, following two years of dating. The announcement was highlighted in a social media post by Mitchell.
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Kyrie Irving's history with the Boston Celtics is described as murky, marked by controversial incidents like burning sage in the arena, flipping off fans, and cursing at people after a game. Despite this difficult relationship, there was an initial period of genuine excitement when Irving first joined the Celtics after requesting a trade from Cleveland to escape LeBron James' shadow. On paper, Boston seemed like a great fit, boasting young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, alongside signings Gordon Hayward and Al Horford, suggesting elite team potential. However, Irving's time in Boston was ultimately not a successful fit for various reasons, and the team failed to achieve its desired success. He left via free agency for the Brooklyn Nets two years later, cementing the hatred of Celtics fans towards him. Recently, during a stream, Irving brought on Celtics star Jaylen Brown, who asked about Irving's time in Boston. Irving responded graciously, recalling his initial excitement upon joining the team. He cited family connections (his father attended school nearby and his mother graduated from Boston University) and the appealing change of pace from Cleveland. Irving emphasized the thrill of playing alongside so much talent, stating that Brown and others challenged him daily, which he needed. He specifically mentioned the excitement of putting on the Celtics uniform as a standout memory. The article notes that Irving's perception around the NBA has significantly improved during his time with the Dallas Mavericks, where he has found a home and happiness. His recent offseason streams are credited with helping people see more of his personality and true character.
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The news covers various lifestyle, entertainment, and wellness topics including Saina Nehwal's seven dietary practices for maintaining peak physical fitness. Cinema halls are reviving nostalgic experiences through strategic re-releases of classic films. A list of eight college degrees projected to have high job placement rates in 2025 is highlighted for career planning. A DIY guide for creating Korean-inspired hair serum to promote hair growth is featured. Nine specific foods known to reduce cancer risk are identified for health-conscious readers. Fatima Sana Shaikh's floral fashion ensembles are showcased, referencing her role in 'Aap Jaisa Koi'. Top ten stylish looks inspired by Hina Khan's fashion choices are presented. Ahaana Krishna's fashion moments featuring floral patterns and soft-colored outfits are spotlighted. Ten motivational quotes are curated for Monday inspiration to boost productivity. Glamorous photographs of actress Meenakshi Chaudhary are featured in a style segment.
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Atlanta Hawks star point guard Trae Young is eligible for a four-year, $229 million contract extension this offseason. However, according to NBA insider Marc J. Spears of ESPN, substantive extension talks between Young and the Hawks have not yet occurred. Spears noted Young demonstrated commitment to the team by skipping a Jordan Brand event in Greece to join the Hawks in Las Vegas, but confirmed no meaningful extension discussions are happening currently. Young, who has spent his entire NBA career with the Hawks, saw the team acquire Kristaps Porzingis from the Celtics and sign Luke Kennard and Nickeil Alexander-Walker this offseason. The four-time All-Star averaged 24.2 points and a league-leading 11.6 assists per game last season. Young is set to earn $45.9 million next season and holds a $48.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season. One of the NBA's top scorers and passers with career averages of 25.3 points and 9.8 assists, Young led the Hawks to the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals. Prior to the Kings signing Dennis Schroder, Young was linked to Sacramento. However, NBA insider Sam Amick reported the Kings weren't interested in trading for Young due to his offense-first playing style and the significant cost of his current contract and potential extension. The Hawks have not made the playoffs since 2023, adding intrigue to their upcoming season performance.
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Lithuanian basketball player Rokas Jokubaitis addressed his future with Maccabi Tel Aviv during a media session while training with Lithuania's senior national team for EuroBasket 2025. When asked about his current situation with the Israeli club, Jokubaitis stated, "We will see in a few days," explaining he had been instructed not to discuss it but hinted news might arrive soon. Jokubaitis was previously linked to a move to FC Bayern Munich, but Maccabi Tel Aviv officially denied those rumors. Instead, reports suggested he might sign a contract extension with Maccabi that includes an improved salary. Jokubaitis confirmed there had been "no contact at all" with the New York Knicks, the NBA team holding his rights, during the offseason. He also ruled out participating in the NBA Summer League again. He was originally drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder 34th overall in 2021 before being traded to the Knicks. Jokubaitis is part of Lithuania's preliminary squad for EuroBasket 2025. Lithuania will compete in Group B during the preliminary round in Tampere, Finland, facing Great Britain, Montenegro, Germany, Finland, and Sweden between August 27 and September 3. The top four teams from the group will advance to the single-elimination knockout stage in Riga, Latvia, running from September 6 to 14.
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The Minnesota Timberwolves currently have two open roster spots but are prioritizing roster continuity this offseason. Their only significant moves have been extending Naz Reid and Julius Randle while re-signing Joe Ingles. Although they lost Nickeil Alexander-Walker, they plan to retain nearly the same roster. Despite having two openings, Minnesota is likely to start the season with one spot vacant. This strategy provides financial and roster flexibility, especially given their high payroll under the NBA's second-apron rules. The team has shown interest in veteran guards Bradley Beal and Malcolm Brogdon, whose skills (shot creation and playmaking) align with roster needs. However, acquiring either player could impact rookie Rob Dillingham's development. Damian Lillard is also mentioned as a potential long-term option for the 2026-27 season, though no credible links exist. Brogdon appears a more realistic target than Beal, who faces strong interest from the Los Angeles Clippers and hasn't been bought out. Alternatively, the Wolves could pursue point guard Monte Morris, who previously played for them and would provide reliable depth without disrupting rotations. Other potential depth signings include guards Cameron Payne, Delon Wright, Patty Mills, and Alec Burks, or wings/bigs like Lindy Waters III, Torrey Craig, Precious Achiuwa, and Trey Lyles. The team is more likely to add a depth piece than make a major acquisition. Another option involves converting two-way player Tristen Newton to a standard contract if he impresses in summer league. This would align with the continuity theme and free up a two-way spot for players like Amari Bailey, though Newton would likely spend time in the G League. Regardless of their approach, the Timberwolves are positioned well for the upcoming season.
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The Orlando Magic acquired Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies in an offseason trade, announced by President of Basketball Operations Jeff Weltman on June 25. The deal sent guard Cole Anthony, guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and multiple future first-round draft picks to Memphis in exchange for Bane. Bane is coming off a strong season, averaging 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game over 69 contests. He shot 48.4% from the field and 39.2% from three-point range, demonstrating his scoring efficiency. Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley praised Bane's immediate impact, noting that he was already training with teammates Franz Wagner and Anthony Black. Mosley highlighted Bane's work ethic, character, care factor, and leadership as valuable additions to the team. Bane joins a roster led by All-Star forward Paolo Banchero and holds significant historical rankings with the Grizzlies. He is top 10 all-time in franchise history for points, assists, threes, playoff points, playoff rebounds, playoff assists, playoff steals, and playoff threes, where he is the franchise leader. The Magic finished the previous season as the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference with a 41-41 record, securing their second consecutive playoff appearance. However, they were eliminated in the first round by the Boston Celtics in five games.
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The New York Liberty are exploring the potential signing of free agent Emma Meesseman while Jonquel Jones recovers from an ankle injury. Players and coaches acknowledge Meesseman could help the team, leveraging existing connections through head coach Sandy Brondello and star player Breanna Stewart. Both Brondello and Stewart share a history with Meesseman from their time at Russian club UMMC Ekaterinburg. Brondello coached there from 2012-2017, Stewart played from 2020-2022, and Meesseman was a member from 2016-2022. When asked directly about pursuing Meesseman (who hasn't played in the WNBA since 2022), Brondello did not deny the 2019 WNBA Finals MVP would be beneficial. Brondello stated on July 8th that Meesseman is resting after Eurobasket and deciding her plans, adding "We would love to have her if that’s something she’s interested in. I think that would certainly help us," though she confirmed no direct conversation had occurred yet. Similarly, Stewart responded coyly with "Um, maybe" and a smile when questioned about contacting Meesseman, stating "But I don’t know what’s happening." The article notes that Meesseman's potential fit with the Liberty extends beyond merely covering for Jones' injury and includes her familiarity with key personnel.
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New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu has confirmed her participation in the upcoming WNBA three-point contest. She informed the New York Post that she will compete in the event this Friday as part of the WNBA All-Star weekend in Indianapolis. Ionescu will be joined by Washington Mystics rookie Sonia Citron as the first two officially announced participants for the contest. This marks Ionescu's second appearance; she previously won the contest in 2023 by setting a WNBA and NBA single-round record with 37 points in the final round. She also notably faced the Golden State Warriors' Steph Curry in the 2024 NBA three-point contest, losing by just three points. Statistically this season, Ionescu is shooting a career-low 32.4% from three-point range, while Citron is shooting 36.3%. There is significant speculation that Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark will also participate, which would be her first appearance in the event. Clark previously declined an invitation to the NBA's contest earlier this year, reportedly because she wanted her first three-point contest to be at the WNBA All-Star event in Indianapolis. The three-point contest is scheduled for Friday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, followed by the All-Star game on Saturday night. Both Ionescu and Citron are on Caitlin Clark's team for the All-Star game and will face a team led by Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier.
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Luka Doncic and Bam Adebayo were seen partying with Michael Jordan at an exclusive Jordan Brand dinner and afterparty in Athens, Greece, hosted by Jordan himself. The event gathered prominent Jordan Brand athletes and ambassadors, highlighting the brand's global reach. Luka Doncic was a central figure, joining other attendees including Bam Adebayo, Rui Hachimura, Quentin Richardson, NFL's Cam Jordan, model Jessica Sims, and Carmelo Anthony. A key activity was a creative design challenge. Doncic, Adebayo, Quentin Richardson, Jessica Sims, and Cam Jordan formed a team that won the competition. They received a trophy and a luxury bottle of Cincoro Tequila (co-founded by Jordan), with Richardson personally handing the tequila to Doncic and calling him the team "MVP". Following the competition, Doncic, Adebayo, and Richardson continued celebrating together in Athens nightlife, captured laughing and dancing in a viral photo shared by Richardson. Another photo showed Adebayo and Richardson posing with Michael Jordan. For Adebayo, the event reinforced his multi-year partnership with Jordan Brand (signed in 2019), showcasing his role as a versatile ambassador beyond his on-court play. Doncic's prominent role underscored his significant value to the Jordan Brand, especially following his contract extension through 2029. He remains the first European-born player to sign a signature shoe deal with Jordan.
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The New York Liberty, led by Sabrina Ionescu and holding a 13-6 record, will host the Atlanta Dream, who have a 12-8 record, on Sunday, July 13th. The game will take place at Barclays Center with a tip-off scheduled for 3 p.m. ET. The article provides information on where to watch the matchup, specifically mentioning coverage on Peachtree TV, WWOR, and Liberty Live.
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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 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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The Phoenix Suns will be without Ryan Dunn and first-round draft pick Khaman Maluach for their NBA Summer League game against the Atlanta Hawks on July 13 at Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas. This decision was made due to the team playing back-to-back games, with a matchup against the Sacramento Kings scheduled for the following day. In the Suns' previous Summer League game on Friday, Dunn contributed 17 points in a victory over Washington, while Maluach scored 14 points in his NBA Summer League debut. Their absence will impact the team's rotation for the upcoming contest. Additionally, Rasheer Fleming will miss his second consecutive game due to right knee soreness, further reducing the Suns' available player roster for Sunday's matchup.
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Former Wisconsin Badgers star Nigel Hayes-Davis is returning to the NBA with the Phoenix Suns, turning down a significantly more lucrative contract offer from his European club, Fenerbahce Istanbul. Hayes-Davis initially entered the NBA as an undrafted free agent with the New York Knicks after the 2016-17 season, appearing briefly in games for the Lakers, Raptors, and Kings before embarking on a European career in 2017-18. Hayes-Davis found considerable success playing in Europe, particularly with Fenerbahce. His achievements include earning All-Second Team Turkish League honors in 2023, winning back-to-back Turkish Cups in 2024 and 2025 (earning MVP both times), and culminating in becoming a EuroLeague Champion and Finals MVP in 2025. Following his 2024 season, NBA star Kevin Durant recommended an NBA team sign him. Despite receiving a three-year, $9 million contract offer from Fenerbahce this offseason, Hayes-Davis prioritized his long-standing goal of returning to the NBA. He actively pursued this for several years and ultimately accepted a one-year, fully guaranteed $2 million deal with the Phoenix Suns. To facilitate this move, Hayes-Davis paid Fenerbahce $1 million to buy out his existing contract. Hayes-Davis now joins a Suns team aiming to return to the playoffs after missing last season. Under new head coach Jordan Ott, he will compete for playing time at small forward alongside newly acquired Dillon Brooks and veteran Royce O'Neale.
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Nike and NBA player Devin Booker are moving forward with the next chapter of his signature shoe line, as mockups for the Nike Book 2 have been revealed. This follows the successful conclusion of the "chapter one" represented by the Nike Book 1. The Nike Book 1 is described as having been very successful despite initial criticism. It thrived due to its elite traction, solid rear-foot cushioning, and lock-in stability, achieving a timeless classic feel. Performance data supports its success: the Book 1 ranked fourth overall in minutes worn by NBA players during the season, accumulating 40,749 minutes, and was the single most worn shoe during the NBA Conference Finals. The Nike Book 2 faces high expectations following the Book 1. The author anticipates a similar pattern of initial skepticism turning into favoritism once people try the shoe. Technologically, the Book 2 will feature a mesh upper, Cushlon 3.0 midsole, forefoot Zoom Air, a herringbone-inspired outsole, and a ZoomX sockliner. Based on personal experience with the Book 1, the author highlights its excellent grip, ankle support (no sprains experienced), and characteristic squeaking noise during movement. Early behind-the-scenes information suggested the Book 2 would be similar to the first edition but with slight tweaks. The article compares leaked images to illustrate design evolution. The initial leak of the Book 1 looked significantly different from the final released version, with notable changes like a much larger Swoosh logo extending towards the heel. Consequently, the author cautions against reading too much into leaks. The leaked image of the Book 2 shows a silhouette very similar to the *leaked* Book 1, described as a low-cut sneaker with an identically sized Swoosh. The Nike Book 2 is expected to be released in Spring 2026 with a retail price of $145.
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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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Minnesota Timberwolves play-by-play announcer Michael Grady will work a "modified" schedule of team games next season due to his new role as one of Amazon's national NBA broadcasters, according to a report by Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic. Grady was officially announced as part of Amazon's NBA play-by-play team on Thursday, alongside Kevin Harlan, Ian Eagle, and Eric Collins. This follows Amazon and NBC becoming the NBA's new major long-term television partners starting in the 2025-26 season. While Grady will remain the Timberwolves' lead play-by-play announcer, his national assignments will reduce the number of Wolves games he calls on FanDuel Sports Network North. The exact percentage reduction is currently unclear, with details expected later. Despite the reduced game schedule, Grady will not be lost to Wolves fans. He will maintain his role and reportedly have an "expanded digital role with reporting, previews and other content" in Minnesota. Grady himself confirmed the change on Instagram, stating, "Things will look a little different next year, fam, but we’re NOT done." This follows a pattern from last season where Grady missed some Wolves games for national ESPN duties. Marney Gellner (FDSNN sideline/studio, Lynx play-by-play) served as the primary fill-in alongside analyst Jim Petersen, with radio announcer Alan Horton another backup option. In addition to his NBA role with Amazon, Grady is expected to become Amazon's lead WNBA announcer next season. Reports also indicated prior talks with NBC about calling NBA and WNBA games. Grady joined the Timberwolves in 2022, replacing Dave Benz. Before that, he worked for the YES Network as a sideline reporter, host, and backup play-by-play announcer for Brooklyn Nets games.
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De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde defeated Colegio de San Juan de Letran 83-78 in NCAA Season 100 action at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on Friday. This victory keeps Benilde on track for a Final Four bonus. The Blazers improved to 13-2, solidifying their position at the top of the league standings. The Knights fell to 7-9 with the loss. Letran held a significant 27-13 lead late in the first quarter. However, Benilde responded with a dominant second quarter, exploding for 32 points while limiting Letran to just 10, giving the Blazers a 47-37 halftime lead. After trailing 62-54 at the end of the third quarter, Letran mounted a comeback in the fourth, narrowing the gap to seven points (79-72) with 68 seconds left following baskets by Jimboy Estrada and Joseph Nunag. Benilde's Allen Liwag secured the win with crucial baskets late, countering three-pointers from Pao Javillonar and Deo Cuajao. Benilde head coach Charles Tiu credited Letran's effort, stating his team expected their desperation for the win and were thankful to make adjustments, capitalize, and execute their game plan. MVP frontrunner Allen Liwag led the Blazers with a strong all-around performance: 20 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and a steal. Justine Sanchez contributed 16 points, and Mark Sangco added 11 points. This win extends Benilde's winning streak to seven games. For Letran, Pao Javillonar had a standout performance, hitting eight three-pointers en route to a career-high 31 points. Jimboy Estrada recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 assists, along with eight rebounds and a block. Deo Cuajao scored 10 points. The quarter scores were: 15-27, 47-37, 62-54, 83-78.
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Colegio de San Juan de Letran defeated Jose Rizal University in a five-set match (28-26, 25-22, 11-25, 25-22) during the NCAA Season 100 women's volleyball tournament at San Sebastian College-Recoletos gym in Manila on Friday. After JRU dominated the third set with a 15-point lead (22-7), Letran struggled to regain momentum. In the fourth set, JRU led 18-14 before Letran rallied with three consecutive points. A double contact violation gave JRU a 19-17 advantage, but Letran reclaimed the lead at 20-19. Judiel Nitura's back-to-back aces extended Letran's lead to 22-19. JRU narrowed the gap to 22-21 following a Letran service error, but another Letran attack error gave JRU a late opportunity. Rookie Sheena Sarie secured the victory for Letran with a match-ending play. Letran head coach Oliver Almadro stated his team—comprising 65-70% rookies, including recent beach volleyball participants Lara Silva and Gia Maquilang—is adjusting to roles and the league's two-round format. He emphasized prioritizing consistency over immediate results, allowing players to acclimate to NCAA competition. Sarie led Letran with 22 points (21 attacks) in her debut, supported by Yen Martin (17 points) and Nitura (16 points). JRU's top scorers were Patricia del Pilar (16 points), Nicole Deala (15 points), and Cherish Dayame and Gayle Batara (13 points each). Letran next faces Mapua University on Thursday, while JRU attempts to rebound against the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA the same day.
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Shirley E. Daniels, 84, of Havelock, NC, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2024, at Carolina East Medical Center, with her family present. Her funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Munden Funeral Home in Morehead City, officiated by Rev. Kenny McCoy. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the same location. Shirley is remembered as a beloved wife, mother, and friend who led a life of adventure. She enjoyed hunting, camping, gardening, bird watching, and all kinds of sports, with a particular passion for racing and football, which she loved discussing. She is survived by her three children: Lisa Daniels of Atlantic, Keelie Kimmons (Kirk) of Havelock, and Kenneth W "Chip" Daniels (Toni) of the home; an adopted son, John Sharp of Dover; six granddaughters: Lela S Nelson (Zach), Autumn Daniels, Jolie Gaskill (Tim), Megan Yates, Brenna Kimmons, and Trinity Norris; and seven adored great-grandchildren: Bricen Goodwin, Adelyn Lewis, Gracelyn Brinson, Kenna Nelson, Ayden Lewis, Madison, and Hayden Henderson. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Kenneth Wayne Daniels Sr., and her daughter Jolie Nell Daniels. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Carteret County Humane Society, 853 Hibbs Road, Newport, NC 28570. Online condolences can be submitted at www.mundenfuneralhome.net. Arrangements are by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.
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