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TOPBaron Davis addresses 'the only reason' the New York Knicks lost to the Pacers, failure around one player
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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TOPEverything the Lakers Have Done was Done for Nikola Jokic
For at least three years, an unconfirmed but widely accepted belief has circulated within the NBA that Luka Dončić and Nikola Jokić intend to play together eventually. Though neither player has publicly confirmed this due to contractual constraints, their well-documented friendship and increasing hints about a future partnership lend credibility to the speculation. This context helps explain the Los Angeles Lakers' apparent lack of urgency in the 2025 offseason. Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka openly prioritized targeting the 2027 free agency period, a strategy met with skepticism given LeBron James' limited remaining prime years and Dončić's current superstar availability. However, this aligns with Jokić's impending free agency in 2027. Notably, Denver Nuggets President Josh Kroenke recently acknowledged Jokić might eventually leave the team, and Jokić himself declined a contract extension offer from Denver. While Jokić could still sign an extension in 2026, the Lakers are operating on the widespread rumor of the duo's desire to unite. Pairing Dončić with a 32-year-old Jokić in 2027 may be debatable, but it remains a tangible strategy. A Dončić trade to Denver was never feasible due to the Nuggets' salary cap limitations and lack of trade assets, evidenced by their recent cap-driven moves. Jokić's decision to delay contract talks—officially to maximize future earnings—creates a pathway for a 2027 departure. Kroenke's public admission of this possibility, however remote, underscores its legitimacy. With Jokić's Denver tenure closer to its potential end than its beginning, his choice not to secure his future now leaves the 2027 free agency window strategically significant for teams like the Lakers.
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Brice Dessert reportedly in advanced negotiations with Anadolu Efes
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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Yuki Kawamura Has Message for Ja Morant After Leaving Grizzlies
Following a first-round playoff sweep by the eventual champion Oklahoma City Thunder, the Memphis Grizzlies made significant offseason changes, including trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony (who was later bought out). Among other players leaving Memphis was guard Yuki Kawamura. After appearing in 22 games for Memphis last season, the Japanese guard signed a summer league contract with the Chicago Bulls. Kawamura recently spoke about his time with the Grizzlies, expressing that he misses Memphis and its people, stating he wanted to play there again this year but acknowledged "it is what it is." Kawamura also shared a message for his former teammate, Ja Morant. He admitted he already misses Morant, calling him "such a great guy" and his "big brother." Despite limited playing time as an undrafted player on a two-way deal, Kawamura made an impact and became a fan favorite in Memphis. Now with the Bulls, the 5-foot-8 guard aims to make a similar impact in Chicago and secure a larger role in the NBA. While showing flashes of potential in his career, he hasn't had much opportunity in the league so far, and he hopes that will change with the Bulls.
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Mercury forward Satou Sabally calls league’s initial CBA proposal ‘a slap in the face’
The WNBA players union and league officials are preparing for their first in-person collective bargaining agreement negotiations since December, scheduled for Thursday in Indianapolis ahead of All-Star weekend. Both sides have exchanged initial proposals but remain significantly apart in early discussions. Phoenix Mercury forward and union representative Satou Sabally characterized the league's proposal as "a slap in the face." Key negotiation points include demands for increased salaries, revenue sharing, and expanded roster sizes. The current CBA expires after this season, with nearly all non-rookie scale players becoming free agents seeking substantial pay raises. Union president Nneka Ogwumike expressed optimism that the face-to-face meeting with the full players' executive council would facilitate progress, noting in-person discussions often prove more efficient than remote communications. The negotiations occur amid unprecedented WNBA growth, including rising attendance, viewership, and a new $2.2 billion media rights deal starting next season. The league also plans expansion to 18 teams by 2030, with each new franchise paying a $250 million entry fee. Ogwumike criticized the league's resistance to sharing expansion fee revenue with players, stating: "It doesn't make a lot of sense." She revealed the union submitted its proposal in February but didn't receive the league's counter until last month—a delay she found surprising, suggesting the league misunderstood the players' initial offer. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert acknowledged at April's draft that the union's proposal lacked comprehensiveness but projected confidence in reaching a "transformational" agreement, emphasizing such negotiations "take time."
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Kyrie Irving surprisingly speaks highly of 'crazy' Celtics tenure
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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76ers' horror story continues with gut-wrenching Paul George announcement
Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his left knee after sustaining an injury during a recent offseason workout. Sources described the procedure as a "clean-up" that did not involve major ligaments. George will now begin a rehabilitation plan and is scheduled to be re-evaluated before the start of training camp. This injury occurred in the same knee George hyper-extended twice during the previous season, raising immediate concerns about his durability. The timing is particularly troubling as George entered the previous season healthy but was subsequently hampered by multiple injuries that limited his effectiveness, leading to him being shut down after the All-Star break alongside Joel Embiid. While hopes were high for a bounce-back season, this new injury casts doubt on that possibility. The fact that George sustained an injury requiring surgery during an offseason workout is alarming, especially considering he turned 35 in May. He is entering the second year of a four-year, $212 million contract, set to earn $51.7 million in the 2025-26 season. The article expresses concern that if George continues to suffer injuries at this rate, his contract could become one of the worst in the NBA in the coming years. While George could potentially recover fully by October, the risk of recurring nagging injuries due to age and wear-and-tear remains significant. The article emphasizes a key lesson for the 76ers from last season: they must prioritize George's health and allow him ample time to recover fully, even if it means missing games early in the season, rather than rushing him back prematurely. The article concludes with a satirical suggestion that Dr. Jonathan Glashow, who performed the same surgery on both George and Embiid within four months, should ring the bell for Philadelphia's home-opening game.
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WNBA All-Star weekend: Sabrina Ionescu commits to 3-point contest as field takes shape
New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu has committed to participate in the WNBA 3-point contest during All-Star weekend in Indianapolis, according to reports. She is the second confirmed participant, joining Washington Mystics rookie Sonia Citron. Speculation exists that Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark may also join the contest, especially since the Fever are hosting the All-Star events. This will be Ionescu's second 3-point contest; she won in 2023, setting a WNBA and NBA single-round record with 37 points in the final round. She skipped the event last year but competed against Stephen Curry during NBA All-Star weekend, losing by three points. Ionescu is averaging a career-high 19.4 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game this season (her sixth), along with 2.6 made three-pointers. Her Liberty team holds a 14-6 record. Rookie Citron, the No. 3 overall pick, is averaging 14.3 points and 1.6 made three-pointers per game. The 3-point contest and skills challenge are scheduled for Friday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The All-Star game follows on Saturday night. Team captains Caitlin Clark and Napheesa Collier have already selected their teams, while Cheryl Reeve (Lynx) and Sandy Brondello (Liberty) were named head coaches for the game, though they were traded during the coach draft.
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Remogat rallies UP past La Salle to make third straight Filoil Preseason Finals
The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons defeated the La Salle Green Archers 83-78 in the semifinals of the Filoil EcoOil 18th Preseason Cup. UP battled back for most of the game, trailing by one point (72-73) with under two minutes remaining. Rey Remogat then hit a crucial three-pointer to put UP ahead 75-73 with one minute left. After a defensive stop, Remogat sank another three-pointer over Jacob Cortez, extending the lead to 78-73 with 23 seconds to go. Remogat, who had struggled earlier (1-of-11 from deep before the clutch shots), credited his coaches and teammates for maintaining confidence in him. Despite Vhoris Marasigan bringing La Salle within two points, Gerry Abadiano responded with a free throw and a fastbreak layup to push UP's lead back to 81-75. Although La Salle's Kean Baclaan hit a three-pointer to cut the deficit to three, time ran out as Abadiano sealed the UP victory with two free throws. Remogat led UP with 14 points, while Abadiano and Jalen Stevens added 12 points each, helping UP overcome a 15-point first-half deficit (28-43). UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde emphasized the need for increased effort and energy after halftime. For La Salle, Jacob Cortez scored 16 points with six rebounds, and Kean Baclaan had 14 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. UP will face the National University (NU) Bulldogs in the Finals for the ECJ Perpetual Trophy. NU, the fourth seed with a 3-3 elimination round record, upset the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers 96-84 in the other semifinal. NU trailed by 14 points early in the third quarter but mounted a 29-11 run, fueled by 12 close-range points, to take a 72-68 lead late in the quarter. Head coach Jeff Napa stated the focus at halftime was simply to play their game and stick to their strengths in the second half. UST could only get as close as eight points down afterward, as NU leveraged their size advantage to dominate inside scoring (44-36 edge).
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Why the Liberty must sign Emma Meesseman
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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Former French head coach Vincent Collet “happy” Joel Embiid chose to play for Team USA
Former French national team head coach Vincent Collet expressed happiness about Joel Embiid's decision to play for Team USA. There is speculation that guard Donte DiVincenzo may play for the Italian national team in the upcoming 2025 Eurobasket tournament. Philadelphia 76ers executive Daryl Morey commented on Quentin Grimes, stating the team hopes to "work things out".
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LOOK: Angel Reese warms up with 2K26 cover t-shirt and other pictures of the day in the WNBA
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Nae’Qwan Tomlin continues to impress in Cavs’ 92-83 win over Bucks
The Cleveland Cavaliers secured their first win of the 2025 NBA Summer League, defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 92-83 after building and maintaining a significant lead. Nae'Qwan Tomlin continued his excellent performance, scoring 21 points on high efficiency. Across two Summer League games, he has made 21 of 28 shots and dominated at the rim. Currently on a two-way contract, his strong play suggests a potential conversion to a standard deal soon. His ball-handling skills for a 6'10" forward make him a dynamic scorer, and he relentlessly pressured the defense. He also contributed significantly on the boards with 13 rebounds (8 defensive). Jaylon Tyson, filling in at point guard, had a less effective game compared to his previous outing where he recorded 12 assists. Against the Bucks, he managed only 3 assists and shot poorly from the floor (3-13). However, he remained impactful by aggressively drawing fouls, making 9 of 10 free throws to finish with 18 points. Tyrese Proctor performed slightly better in the point guard role, dishing out 4 assists with only 1 turnover. While still struggling in one-on-one situations, he showed improvement attacking closeouts and navigating dribble-hand-offs. He contributed 12 points, including making 3 of 8 three-point attempts.
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Luka Doncic's Manager Opens Up On Relationship With LeBron James
Rumors suggest the Los Angeles Lakers may be shifting their focus towards building around Luka Doncic, potentially moving on from LeBron James, but Doncic himself reportedly values his partnership with James. His manager, Lara Beth Sager, emphasized Doncic's deep respect and admiration for the four-time NBA champion, stating Doncic loves playing with him and considers it an honor to be his teammate. Seager highlighted their shared championship goal and that Doncic has learned significantly from James. Initial concerns about the compatibility of two ball-dominant players arose, fueled by Doncic's performance in his first few Lakers games, casting doubt on their ability to coexist. However, Doncic soon returned to his usual high level of play, effectively silencing those doubts. With the Lakers seemingly preparing to center the team on Doncic, securing a contract extension is a priority. Seager clearly stated Doncic's current happiness with the Lakers organization, praising the leadership team for being incredibly welcoming and supportive since his arrival in Los Angeles. She noted they have spent significant time building a strong working relationship. While rumors about LeBron James' discontent are familiar, the report indicates that, barring unexpected events, Doncic and the future Hall of Famer James are expected to continue leading the Lakers together for at least another season.
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UP, NU set up FilOil Preseason Cup Finals duel
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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UP boots out La Salle, sets FilOil preseason finals vs NU
New UP Fighting Maroons player Rey Remogat delivered crucial late-game plays to secure an 83-78 victory over the previously unbeaten La Salle Green Archers in the FilOil Preseason Cup semifinals on Sunday, July 13, at the FilOil Centre in San Juan. With UP trailing 72-73, Remogat, a former UE star, hit a three-pointer with 59 seconds remaining to give UP a 75-73 lead. He followed this with another three-pointer with 23 seconds left, extending the lead to 78-73. UP captain Gerry Abadiano then sealed the win with an insurance basket and free throws. The win propels the defending champion Fighting Maroons into the tournament finals, where they will face the NU Bulldogs, who defeated UST in the other semifinal. Remogat finished the game with 14 points, including 3-of-13 shooting from the field, with 9 of those points coming in the decisive fourth quarter after scoring only 5 in the first three periods. UP head coach Goldwin Monverde noted Remogat processed the game well and is still adjusting within the team. Remogat stated his clutch performance was about repaying the trust given to him by the team, crediting teammates for encouraging him not to lose confidence in his shots during the game. Key contributions also came from Gerry Abadiano and Gani Stevens, who each scored 12 points. Francis Nnoruka provided significant support off the bench with 6 points and 16 rebounds, helping UP counter La Salle's strong frontcourt.
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Bradley Beal Reportedly Linked to T-Wolves amid Lakers, Clippers, Warriors Rumors
NBA veteran Bradley Beal is reportedly drawing interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves this offseason, joining a list of potential suitors that already includes the Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Milwaukee Bucks, according to reports from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer. If acquired by Minnesota, Beal's role would depend on the Timberwolves' lineup strategy. He could potentially come off the bench if the team maintains its traditional larger starting unit alongside Mike Conley and Anthony Edwards. Alternatively, the team could opt for a smaller frontcourt featuring Conley at point guard, Beal and Edwards as the shooting guard and small forward, with Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert in the frontcourt, creating a potentially strong roster. The reports indicate that the Clippers are currently considered the favorites to land the 32-year-old Beal. This is linked to the Phoenix Suns considering waiving and stretching Beal's contract, a move that would require Beal to surrender nearly $13.9 million of the $111 million remaining on his deal over the final two seasons. A contract buyout also remains a possibility, which would terminate Beal's five-year contract and erase his no-trade clause.
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NBL holds 526th board meeting
National Bank PLC held its 526th board meeting on Wednesday. Chairman and sponsor director Abdul Awal Mintoo presided over the meeting. Attendees included vice chairman and sponsor director Moazzam Hossain, risk management committee chairman and director Zakaria Taher, executive committee chairman and independent director Muklesur Rahman, audit committee chairman and independent director Md Abdus Satter Sarkar, independent directors Md Zulkar Nayn and Melita Mehjabeen, managing director Adil Chowdhury, deputy managing director Imran Ahmed, and company secretary Md Kaiser Rashid. The board of directors formally welcomed the newly appointed Managing Director, Adil Chowdhury, to his role. In response, Chowdhury stated, ‘With visionary leadership of the board and the collective efforts of our capable team, I am confident that we will overcome the current challenges and guide the bank toward sustainable growth and innovation.’ The meeting included policy-level decisions on several important bank matters and provided strategic guidance for its future course of action.
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Spurs Agree To Re-Sign Veteran Guard on One-Year, $3,000,000 Deal As Team Continues To Build Roster Depth
The San Antonio Spurs' offseason strategy centers on building around Victor Wembanyama while retaining veteran players who contributed to a 12-win improvement in 2024-25. This approach includes securing backcourt depth, with ESPN's Shams Charania reporting that point guard Jordan McLaughlin agreed to a one-year, $3 million deal to return to the team. McLaughlin, who split last season between the Spurs and Kings, will enter his seventh NBA campaign as a reserve guard. McLaughlin initially joined the Spurs in a February three-team trade with the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls, which also brought star point guard De'Aaron Fox to San Antonio. Although he played sparingly as a third-string point guard last season, his veteran presence was valuable. Re-signing the 29-year-old ensures continuity in the backcourt, particularly with Chris Paul expected to depart in free agency, creating a succession plan where McLaughlin provides stability behind Fox and mentors young guards like Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle. McLaughlin's role is projected to remain situational, with minutes fluctuating based on matchups and team health. In his 18 appearances with the Spurs last season, he averaged 2.5 points, 0.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.3 steals, and 0.5 three-pointers per game on 53.6% field goal, 45.0% three-point, and 100.0% free-throw shooting splits, while playing only 6.9 minutes per night. Despite this limited sample, his career averages—including 2.8 assists per game and 37.3% three-point shooting over six seasons—highlight his reliability as a facilitator and floor spacer, making him an ideal insurance policy for a team learning to close out games. The McLaughlin signing completes the Spurs' methodical roster moves. They began free agency by signing center Luke Kornet to a four-year, $40.7 million contract to bolster rim protection behind Wembanyama, followed by acquiring veteran stretch five Kelly Olynyk from the Washington Wizards. To create roster flexibility, the Spurs traded guards Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley, along with a 2026 second-round pick, facilitating McLaughlin's return while maintaining financial options. Currently, the Spurs have 13 players on standard NBA contracts and retain financial flexibility with a $3.1 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception and a $5.1 million biannual exception to fill their two remaining roster spots.
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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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NBA fans love viral video of Joel Embiid teaching his son basketball
Joel Embiid has faced significant challenges in recent NBA seasons, playing only 58 games combined over the last two years due to persistent injury issues since winning the MVP award in 2023. This has been frustrating for the 31-year-old Philadelphia 76ers superstar, who is losing prime playing years and has also endured ridicule and criticism. A recent viral video shared by Embiid's wife, Anne De Paula, shows a positive moment: Embiid playing basketball and teaching his 4-year-old son, Arthur, how to shoot. This heartwarming family interaction delighted fans on social media. Fans reacted enthusiastically to the video, with comments including "Arthur Embiid is preparing to finish what his father started and save the 76ers in 2039," "The process at work," "Seeing Joel Embiid happy makes me happy," "It’s just great to see him enjoying teaching his son to shoot," "I will never switch up on this man, he's the GOAT," and noting his apparent good health ("Walking around smiling and no brace on the knee. He might be back"). The article highlights that while enjoying time with his son is a welcome reminder of life beyond basketball, a successful recovery during the offseason and a healthy 2025-26 campaign could allow Embiid to reaffirm his status as one of the world's best players.
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Looking Back At The Mercury's 2009 Championship
The Phoenix Mercury won their second WNBA championship in 2009, adding to titles won in 2007 and 2014. They finished the 2009 regular season with a 23-11 record, the best in the Western Conference, led by league MVP Diana Taurasi who averaged 20.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks. In the playoffs, the Mercury defeated the San Antonio Stars 2-1 in the first round, overcoming an initial loss. They then advanced by beating the Los Angeles Sparks 2-1 in the next round, setting up a WNBA Finals appearance against the Indiana Fever. The Finals against the Fever was a competitive five-game series. Phoenix won a high-scoring overtime opener 120-116, fueled by Cappie Pondexter and Penny Taylor. Indiana responded by winning Games 2 (93-84) and 3 (86-85) on a late Ebony Hoffman jumper. Facing elimination, the Mercury won Game 4 decisively (90-77) to force a decisive Game 5, which they won to claim the championship 3-2. Diana Taurasi was named Finals MVP for her performance, marking her first Finals MVP award. The 2009 championship is remembered as one of the franchise's most memorable accomplishments.
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Christine Brennan fuels wild theory Caitlin Clark could start own league
Columnist Christine Brennan suggested during an ESPN LA radio appearance that Caitlin Clark has the financial backing and marketability to potentially start her own basketball league, competing with the WNBA. Brennan cited Clark's massive endorsement deals, including $28 million from Nike, and her unparalleled ability to drive television ratings as key reasons this idea is "fascinating and doable." She attributed the feasibility partly to a "void in the vacuum of leadership" exhibited by the WNBA. While acknowledging the absurdity of the notion, the article notes Brennan did not dismiss the idea. This is significant given Brennan's history of commentary on Clark, which includes previous criticism from the WNBPA for questioning player intent involving Clark and implying the league hasn't adequately protected her. The article suggests Brennan's stance, despite this history and her role as Clark's biographer, makes the idea feel less "out of bounds," especially if the WNBA doesn't capitalize on Clark's stardom. However, the article strongly cautions against taking Brennan's speculation as fact or gospel. It emphasizes that while Clark's impact on ratings and interest ("the Caitlin Clark effect") is undeniable and unprecedented in women's basketball, the concept of her leaving the WNBA to form her own league – even with Nike backing – ultimately feels more like a "fun hypothetical" or "fantasy" than a realistic possibility.
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Timberwolves rumors: Minnesota’s contingency plan amid ‘growing fear’ in free agency
The Minnesota Timberwolves, busy since their Western Conference Finals exit, recently signed backup center Naz Reid to a five-year, $125 million contract extension. However, concerns exist about another key player potentially leaving in free agency. NBA insider Jake Fischer reported a "growing fear" within the organization that guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker could depart via free agency. Alexander-Walker, coming off consistent playoff performances and valued as a "three and D" player, is expected to attract significant interest on the open market. Should Alexander-Walker leave, the Timberwolves might look internally to sophomores Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. for backcourt help. Dillingham offers scoring and playmaking but needs defensive improvement, while Shannon Jr. showed flashes during the playoffs despite limited regular-season minutes. Nevertheless, Fischer's report indicates Minnesota is also expected to explore external free agency and trade options to upgrade their backcourt. This potential search is driven partly by the possible loss of Alexander-Walker and the aging of veteran guard Mike Conley, whose performance is seen as declining. NBA free agency is officially set to begin on Monday evening.
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UAAP: UP ramps up preparations with Serbia camp
The reigning UAAP champion University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons will conduct a training camp in Serbia to prepare for UAAP Season 88. The team, which recently reclaimed the title by defeating La Salle in the finals, departs for Serbia on Sunday. UP Office of Athletics and Sports Development (OASD) Director Bo Perasol explained that the Serbian camp offers a different perspective on the game, highlighting Serbia's status as a sporting powerhouse despite its small size. He made these remarks during the team's contract signing with Puma. The camp roster includes team captain Gerry Abadiano and key holdovers Harold Alarcon, Terrence Fortea, Reyland Torres, and Gani Stevens. Perasol also confirmed that players currently under residency, such as former Far Eastern University player Veejay Pre, will participate. Perasol emphasized that beyond honing skills for their title defense, the camp aims to significantly strengthen the team's conditioning and fitness. He stated that the most crucial benefit for the players will be developing the ability to become "oblivious to fatigue and adversities," aspects deemed critical for deep tournament runs.
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The UP Fighting Maroons Had to Reclaim Glory the Hard Way
The author recounts their emotional journey following the UAAP Season 86 men's basketball finals. After Game 3, they posted a message expressing sadness on Facebook. However, watching the pre-game coverage for Game 3, correspondent Cheska Ramos delivered a powerful message that deeply resonated with the author, specifically referencing UP's long history of heartbreak, the magic of Season 84's championship win, and the recent pain of falling short in Seasons 85 and 86. This message moved the author to tears, connecting with decades of Maroon disappointment and unmet expectations. The author details the immense pressure and high stakes facing UP heading into the decisive game. Key questions included whether Coach Goldwyn Monteverde's legacy would be defined by shortcomings, if Francis Lopez would be labeled an overrated bust by critics, and if the talented UP roster would fail to convert their potential into championships, similar to other UAAP teams in the past. The author sometimes questioned if these high stakes were real or just imagined by a passionate fan. All doubts were erased when Harold Alarcon secured a crucial loose ball with 4.6 seconds remaining. This pivotal play solidified the win. Consequently, Coach Monteverde became the first coach since Tab Baldwin to win multiple men's basketball titles, enhancing his legacy. The talented roster assembled by program director Bo Perasol successfully translated their potential into two UAAP championships within four seasons. Players like JD Cagulangan and Quentin Millora-Brown also finished their UAAP careers as champions. The author concludes by expressing their personal desire, as a fan, alumnus, and analyst, for Francis Lopez to take over.
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Tyrese Haliburton’s Girlfriend Reveals Overwhelming Support During Recovery
Tyrese Haliburton is recovering at home after undergoing surgery for a torn Achilles, ending his remarkable postseason run that nearly delivered a championship to the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers organization and fans have rallied around him, expressing gratitude for his contributions and wishing him a swift recovery. Haliburton has received overwhelming support from the Pacers community, including prayers, love, and floral arrangements. His girlfriend, Jade Jones, shared an Instagram story featuring a console table adorned with congratulatory messages and multiple bouquets, captioned "Ty Ty is so loved." One standout vase displayed Haliburton's Pacers photo wrapped around it, filled with yellow flowers. Among the messages was a handwritten note from Haliburton's friend Dan Solomon, whose signature was visible. Solomon, a 2017 Indiana University graduate and fashion consultant, serves as one of Haliburton's trusted advisors for personal branding and wardrobe. Solomon and Haliburton's relationship extends beyond typical stylist-client dynamics, with Solomon considering him "one of the most fashionable guys in the league" and a creative partner. They first connected during Solomon's "Fashion Within Sports" panel at Indiana University shortly after Haliburton entered the NBA. Their collaboration includes Solomon organizing personal shopping trips, styling Haliburton for major games, and hosting pop-up "Solo Suites" at events like All-Star Weekend. Notably, Haliburton wore a student-designed outfit from Solomon's 2023 IU panel during an April game. Jones has been documenting Haliburton's recovery journey on social media. In an emotional post reflecting on the Pacers' historic season, she wrote: "What a bittersweet ending... You have made a historic run for the Pacers that generations will be talking about." The couple met six years ago as students at Iowa State University, where Jones was a cheerleader.
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