Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 28 points with eight assists in 27 minutes and the Oklahoma City T...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> scored 28 points with eight assists in 27 minutes and the Oklahoma City Thunder blew out the Phoenix Suns 138-89, to win their NBA Cup quarterfinal Wednesday.</p><p>Oklahoma City will move on to Saturday's semifinal in Las Vegas. It will face the San Antonio Spurs, who eliminated the Los Angeles Lakers in Wednesday's second quarterfinal.</p><p>With their 24th win in 25 games, the Thunder equaled the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors for the best start to a regular season in NBA history. Their 16th straight victory also represents the longest winning streak in franchise history, overtaking the 15 straight games they won between December and January of last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 49-point difference was also the largest margin of victory in any game this season.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander shot 11-of-15 from the floor, including 3-of-4 from deep, while only taking three trips to the line. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> was 9-of-13, 4-of-4 on threes, for 24 points and added eight rebounds. The Thunder center was also on the receiving end of an altercation with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37618" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37618">Grayson Allen</a> in the third quarter, during which the Suns guard checked Holmgren to the ground during live play, earning him a flagrant-2 foul and an ejection.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">FULL MOMENT: Grayson Allen ejected for bumping Chet Holmgren to ground and they get into it <a href="https://t.co/YHnnNzDGFb">pic.twitter.com/YHnnNzDGFb</a></p>— NBAbzy (@nbabzyy) <a href="https://twitter.com/nbabzyy/status/1998941997785309603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39256" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39256">Dillon Brooks</a> led the Suns with 16 points but shot just 4-of-16.</p><p>Phoenix ruled out star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> shortly before the matchup. Booker missed his third straight contest with a groin strain he sustained against the Los Angeles Lakers on Dec. 1.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - DECEMBER 10: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns during 2025-26 Emirates NBA Cup Quarterfinals on December 10, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33688543/related

Thunder rout Suns, match Warriors' record start to reach NBA Cup semis

Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn't want the rest of the Milwaukee Bucks preoccupied with his future.  ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> doesn't want the rest of the Milwaukee Bucks preoccupied with his future.</p><p>The Bucks star recently spoke to some of his teammates and told them not to be distracted amid rumors surrounding his future with the franchise, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1998595338492588284">Chris Haynes of Prime Video</a>.</p><p>Antetokounmpo, who's currently out with a strained right calf, reportedly told fellow Bucks players that he intends to return from his injury but can't control whether his name features in rumors before then.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 31-year-old was injured in the first quarter of the Bucks' 113-109 victory Wednesday against the Detroit Pistons. Hours earlier, it was reported that he and his agent had begun discussions with the franchise about whether the two-time MVP should stay in Milwaukee.</p><p>The Bucks have gone 0-2 without Antetokounmpo in the lineup and are now 1-7 this season when the nine-time All-Star doesn't play. They're currently 10th in the East at 10-15.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WI - NOVEMBER 29: AJ Green #20, Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 and Ryan Rollins #13 of the Milwaukee Bucks high five during the game against the Boston Celtics on November 29, 2025 at Fiserv Forum Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE .

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33675303/related

Report: Giannis told teammates to ignore distractions amid trade rumors

Tyronn Lue shot down rumors that he wasn't on speaking terms with Chris Paul before the Los Angel...

<p>Tyronn Lue shot down rumors that he wasn't on speaking terms with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> before the Los Angeles Clippers removed the guard from the team last week.</p><p>"That ain't true. We were talking. How he gonna play and I'm not talking to him?" the Clippers head coach told reporters Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/joeylinn_/status/1998501497928298958">Joey Linn of Sports Illustrated</a>. "There was a stretch when we said he wasn't going to play, he was going to be out of the rotation, and it was tough for him because he's a competitor and what the game means to him and what he brings every single day.</p><p>"After that it wasn't really much."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Lue, 48, added that he wasn't present when Clippers president Lawrence Frank told Paul he was being sent home while the team was on the road. He also revealed that Clippers players weren't happy with the decision.</p><p>"It's their teammate, the guy they go to war with every single day. He was part of us," the head coach said. "It's tough. The organization, Lawrence, made the decision to do it. But we got to move on. We got to try to win some games.</p><p>"I don't think the mood changed because Chris is gone. Nobody wanted to see him go like that. Nothing changed, we just got to win games."</p><p>Paul reportedly requested a meeting with Lue to address alleged complaints that he had become a negative presence on the team. Lue apparently refused that request, and the two reportedly didn't speak for weeks. Lue, who said last week that the Clippers weren't a "good fit" for the 12-time All-Star, confirmed Tuesday that he hasn't spoken to Paul since he was cut.</p><p>Paul had allegedly complained about Clippers coaches, players, and the front office this season.</p><p>In one incident involving the coaching staff, assistant Jeff Van Gundy warned Paul on a flight that he didn't have "leeway" to change the team's defensive tactics, <a href="https://x.com/NBAonPrime/status/1997178938691363171">Prime Video's Chris Haynes</a> reported. Van Gundy was reportedly upset that Paul advised <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> to switch off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a> late in Los Angeles' 133-127 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Nov. 29. Paul subsequently posted a screenshot of the definition of "leeway" to social media.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Chris Paul on Instagram: <a href="https://t.co/sHGDNWPmlk">pic.twitter.com/sHGDNWPmlk</a></p>— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) <a href="https://twitter.com/Farbod_E/status/1995256672810631381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Days after being dismissed, Paul admitted that he was "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3419862" href="https://thescore.com/news/3419862">still scarred</a>" by the sudden decision to end his second stint with the Clippers after four months. However, the 40-year-old, who was widely expected to retire after the campaign, says he's now more relaxed after getting to spend time with his family.</p><p>"I'm actually at peace with everything," Paul told <a href="https://people.com/chris-paul-opens-up-after-getting-cut-from-clippers-exclusive-11864716">People's Jordan Greene</a>. "More than anything, I'm excited about being around and getting a chance to play a small role in whatever anything looks like next. ... The game has been amazing to me and my family."</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 29: Head coach Tyronn Lue of the Los Angeles Clippers looks on during the second quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at Intuit Dome on November 29, 2025 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33671260/related

Lue says reports he wasn't speaking with CP3 'ain't true'

With Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green all unavailable Saturday for the Golden Stat...

<p>With <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> all unavailable Saturday for the Golden State Warriors, it was two-way guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102818" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102818">Pat Spencer</a> who fueled a stunning 99-94 road win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>Spencer dropped a career-high 19 points in the victory to go with seven assists, leading Steve Kerr's undermanned squad in both categories while also earning some high praise from the Warriors head coach.</p><p>"He's really improved his jump shot. That's the big thing. ... And then I think the other thing is that his coach realized: Pat is that motherf-----," Kerr said postgame about the 29-year-old, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1997508291254264176">Anthony Slater of ESPN</a>. "I think that became clear. Sorry, am I allowed to say that?"</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Spencer, a third-year guard out of Northwestern, overtook his previous career high of 17 as he hit a pair of free throws with 4.1 seconds left to seal Golden State's win. He taunted Cavs fans in between both his makes by waving goodbye.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pat Spencer got his career high in points then told Cavs fans to go home 😂 <a href="https://t.co/qJ0klhKW5K">pic.twitter.com/qJ0klhKW5K</a></p>— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSWarriors/status/1997502324051431909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I've always been confident, man," Spencer said after the win, according to <a href="https://x.com/BySamGordon/status/1997517941185904715">Sam Gordon of the San Francisco Chronicle</a>. "I just haven't had the chance to really settle in and get an opportunity to play extended minutes. I've talked about it before - my role last year was completely different. The goal for me was to come in and bring energy this year.</p><p>"They've allowed me to orchestrate a little bit, have the ball in my hands, get other guys involved, make plays. When the coaching staff gives you that level of confidence, it's pretty easy to go out there."</p><p>Spencer's 29 minutes Saturday were the second-most he's played in a game in his career. He played 32 minutes off the bench in a 110-96 loss to the Miami Heat on Nov. 19, scoring 11 points and adding a career-best 13 assists. The Warriors' star trio of Curry, Butler, and Green also did not play in that matchup.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - DECEMBER 06: Pat Spencer #61 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates after scoring during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on December 06, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Warriors defeated the Cavaliers 99-94.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33632530/related

Kerr lauds Spencer after career high vs. Cavs: 'Pat is that motherf-----'

Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden moved into the top 10 of all-time NBA scorers Saturday, ov...

<p>Los Angeles Clippers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> moved into the top 10 of all-time NBA scorers Saturday, overtaking Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony during the Clippers' 109-106 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>Harden surpassed Anthony with a free throw late in the third quarter, his 21st point of the contest.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">James Harden has officially climbed into the NBA’s top 10 all-time scorers list 🔥<br><br>With his 21st point vs. Minnesota, Harden passed Carmelo Anthony for 10th all-time. <a href="https://t.co/izMsT3F9xt">pic.twitter.com/izMsT3F9xt</a></p>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1997504651323671001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"A testament to the work I've put in," Harden said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47227706/clippers-harden-passes-carmelo-10th-scoring-list">Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN</a>. "It's an honor, especially with somebody like Melo, who's done so much greatness for this league."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Clippers guard finished with 34 points on 10-of-18 shooting (1-of-5 from deep), taking him to 28,303. He went 13-of-15 from the line, adding six assists, five rebounds, four steals, and a block.</p><p>Anthony was previously 10th with 28,289 career points. He reached the mark in 1,260 career games, while Harden overtook him in 1,174 games.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>LeBron James*</td>
<td>42268</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>38387</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Karl Malone</td>
<td>36928</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Kobe Bryant</td>
<td>33643</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Michael Jordan</td>
<td>32292</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Dirk Nowitzki</td>
<td>31560</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td>31419</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Kevin Durant*</td>
<td>31051</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Shaquille O'Neal</td>
<td>28596</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>James Harden*</td>
<td>28303</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*active player </em></p><p>"I was looking at the list, and it's like all those guys are way bigger than me, way more athletic than me," Harden said.</p><p>The majority of Harden's points were during his eight-and-a-half seasons with the Houston Rockets, during which he tallied 18,365. He's scored his second-most with the Clippers, moving up to 3,610 points after Saturday.</p><p>The 36-year-old may not have to wait long to climb even further on the list. Harden is 293 points behind Shaquille O'Neal in ninth, with 58 games left to play. At his 26.5 point-per-game average entering Saturday, the 11-time All-Star could theoretically vault O'Neal before the All-Star Game, which will be held at the Clippers' Intuit Dome.</p><p> </p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 06: James Harden #1 of the LA Clippers dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first quarter at Target Center on December 06, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33630480/related

Harden passes Carmelo to enter all-time NBA scoring top 10

Chris Paul doesn't plan to end his career earlier than intended after the Los Angeles Clippers re...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> doesn't plan to end his career earlier than intended after the Los Angeles Clippers released the veteran this past week.</p><p>However, the 40-year-old guard admitted he's still distraught by the sudden, acrimonious split.</p><p>"I'm just staying ready. I'm hooping right now. I don't (know) what's next," Paul told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1997094581717131641">Amazon Prime Video's Chris Haynes</a>. "I'm still scarred by it all. Still processing everything. But I'm staying ready."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Clippers announced Wednesday that Paul was no longer with the team, having sent him home from Atlanta during a five-game road trip. Paul, a 12-time All-Star and the Clippers' all-time assists leader, said in July that he returned to Los Angeles on a one-year deal to be closer to his family.</p><p>In late November, the team <a href="https://x.com/LAClippers/status/1994622581505490978">suggested</a> in a social media post that Paul would retire after the season - his 21st in the NBA - as a member of the Clippers.</p><p>However, the relationship between L.A. and the franchise icon quietly soured behind the scenes this campaign amid rumors that Paul had criticized the front office, coaching staff, and his teammates.</p><p>Paul denied those allegations in a meeting with Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank in November, Haynes <a href="https://x.com/NBAonPrime/status/1997088868089176147">reports</a>. He also reportedly apologized to teammates for any misunderstandings.</p><p>Head coach Tyronn Lue reportedly wasn't on speaking terms with Paul for weeks and refused to meet with the 11-time All-NBA pick during the conflict. On Wednesday, Lue addressed Paul's exit, saying the team "wasn't a good fit for what he was looking for," though he lamented how Paul's stint ended. Clippers stars <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> both said the franchise's decision <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3418594" href="https://thescore.com/news/3418594">shocked</a> them.</p>

MIAMI, FL - DECEMBER 1: Chris Paul #3 of the LA Clippers looks on during the game against the Miami Heat on December 1, 2025 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33609118/related

Chris Paul 'still scarred' by sudden Clippers split

Head coach Tyronn Lue said he didn't consider his Los Angeles Clippers a great match for 21-year ...

<p>Head coach Tyronn Lue said he didn't consider his Los Angeles Clippers a great match for 21-year veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a>, whom the organization unexpectedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3417427" href="https://thescore.com/news/3417427">parted</a> ways with Wednesday morning.</p><p>"I don't think the reason why we're 5-16 is because of CP's play," Lue said Wednesday before the Clippers faced the Hawks in Atlanta, per <a href="https://x.com/joeylinn_/status/1996364122028662819">Sports Illustrated's Joey Linn</a>. "I just think that it wasn't a good fit for what he was looking for.</p><p>"Do I want to see CP go out like this? No, I have a lot of respect for him. He's been a friend of mine over the years, and you never want to see a great go out like this. But I'm pretty sure he will find something because he's a great player. I didn't want to see it end like this."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Los Angeles' exiling of the franchise icon and future Hall of Famer reportedly followed weeks of conflict between Paul and Lue. The coach refused to meet with Paul despite the guard's requests to address rumors that he had become a negative presence on the team, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1996265474112279007">Chris Haynes of Amazon Prime Video</a>.</p><p>Lue also hadn't been on speaking terms with Paul, who had candidly criticized Clippers staff and players during the season, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1996263220948906403">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> reports.</p><p>Paul appeared in 16 of 20 games this campaign for L.A. before getting released, averaging career lows with 2.9 points and 3.3 assists in 14.3 minutes per game. The 12-time All-Star suggested on Nov. 22 that this would be his final season. Meanwhile, the Clippers' record has fallen to 5-16 amid the absences of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45396" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45396">Derrick Jones Jr.</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> - the latter out for the rest of 2025-26 due to a fractured hip.</p><p>Lawrence Frank, the Clippers' president of basketball operations, said in a statement Wednesday that the organization doesn't hold Paul responsible for its underperformance.</p><p>Unless they make the unlikely decision to release Paul from his veteran minimum contract, the Clippers can't trade the 40-year-old before Dec. 15.</p><p>L.A. sits second-last in the Western Conference and doesn't control its own 2026 first-rounder.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - OCTOBER 15: Head Coach Tyronn Lue of the Los Angeles Clippers coaches Chris Paul #3 during the game against the Sacramento Kings during a NBA Preseason game on October 15, 2025 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33584721/related

Lue: Clippers weren't 'good fit' for Chris Paul

Giannis Antetokounmpo did not return to the Milwaukee Bucks' 113-109 win over the Detroit Pistons...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> did not return to the Milwaukee Bucks' 113-109 win over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday after exiting early in the first quarter with a calf strain.</p><p>The Bucks forward was running back on defense after assisting on a layup by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102728" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102728">AJ Green</a> three minutes into the contest when he suddenly fell and grabbed his right calf. He was escorted to the locker room but managed to walk off under his own power.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Giannis appeared to suffer a leg injury early in the game vs. Detroit. He was able to walk off on his own. <a href="https://t.co/RYLETO8BjL">pic.twitter.com/RYLETO8BjL</a></p>— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1996390912293835249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said postgame that he believes the team has ruled out a potential Achilles tear for the star, according to <a href="https://x.com/eric_nehm/status/1996427702933582110">Eric Nehm of The Athletic</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The injury potentially comes at an ill-timed moment for the Bucks star. Antetokounmpo <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3417789" href="https://thescore.com/news/3417789">reportedly</a> met with the team on Wednesday to discuss the possibility of being traded ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline.</p><p>The 30-year-old has been with Milwaukee since being drafted 15th overall in 2013, but he apparently told the organization before the season that he would reassess his future after around 25 games. Wednesday's matchup against the Pistons was the Bucks' 23rd of the season.</p><p>However, Rivers pushed back on the reports, telling media ahead of Wednesday's game that there had been no recent conversations about Antetokounmpo's future.</p><p>"Giannis has never asked to be traded. Ever. I can't make that more clear," Rivers said, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/LilySZhao/status/1996363029450236075">Fox6 News's Lily Zhao</a>.</p><p>Antetokounmpo entered Wednesday averaging a team-high 30.6 points on an NBA-best 11.8 made shots per game. He also led Milwaukee in rebounds (10.7 per game) and assists (6.4) in 16 contests.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 03: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after an apparent injury against the Detroit Pistons during the first quarter at Fiserv Forum on December 03, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33584549/related

Giannis exits early from Bucks' win over Pistons with strained calf

Chicago Bulls rookie Noa Essengue will undergo surgery to repair a left shoulder injury and will ...

<p>Chicago Bulls rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171811" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171811">Noa Essengue</a> will undergo surgery to repair a left shoulder injury and will miss the rest of the 2025-26 season, head coach Billy Donovan said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/KCJHoop/status/1996358474222150139">K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network</a>.</p><p>Essengue suffered the injury during a recent G League game. Donovan said the Bulls preferred the French forward undergo the procedure now to avoid affecting his availability next season, with an expected six-to-seven month recovery, per <a href="https://x.com/JoelXLorenzi/status/1996359341461602532">The Athletic's Joel Lorenzi</a>.</p><p>Chicago drafted the 6-foot-8 Essengue 12th overall this year. He played sparingly for the NBA side, totaling six minutes over two appearances. However, he impressed early on with the Windy City Bulls, averaging 23 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists across four G League games.</p>

CHICAGO, IL - NOVEMBER 22: Noa Essengue #24 of the Chicago Bulls looks on during the game against the Washington Wizards on November 22, 2025 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33581761/related

Bulls rookie Essengue to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery

Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker sustained a right groin strain and will be re-evaluated in one wee...

<p>Phoenix Suns star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> sustained a right groin strain and will be re-evaluated in one week, the team announced Wednesday.</p><p>Booker, 29, suffered the injury in the first quarter of Monday's 125-108 win over the Los Angeles Lakers.</p><p>The four-time All-Star is putting up 25 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game, leading a Suns team that has exceeded expectations. Phoenix underwent significant changes this offseason, trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> to the Houston Rockets and bringing in first-time head coach Jordan Ott.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Though Booker didn't play beyond the two-minute mark of Monday's opening quarter, the Suns closed the gap with the second-seed Lakers to three games thanks to a 33-point performance by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39256" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39256">Dillon Brooks</a> and a 28-point outing from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102743" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102743">Collin Gillespie</a>. Phoenix's defense also kept most of the L.A. subdued offensively, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>, who scored 10 points on 3-of-10 shooting. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> (38 points) was the only member of JJ Redick's squad to score more than 16 points.</p><p>At 13-9, Phoenix sits a half-game back of the Minnesota Timberwolves for the sixth seed in the Western Conference.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - OCTOBER 22: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on October 22, 2025 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33579759/related

Booker has groin strain, will be re-evaluated in 1 week

WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson will challenge Teofimo Lopez for the WBO junior welterw...

<p>WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson will challenge Teofimo Lopez for the WBO junior welterweight belt in the main event of The Ring 6 on Jan. 31, <a href="https://x.com/DAZNBoxing/status/1995525925723639958">DAZN</a> announced Monday.</p><p>Stevenson will move up to 140 pounds for the bout at Madison Square Garden.</p><p>It'll be Stevenson's first fight since he defended his lightweight title in July in a victory by unanimous decision over William Zepeda and improved to 24-0. The 28-year-old has also held the WBO featherweight and super featherweight belts, as well as the WBC's super featherweight title.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I have never shied away from a challenge and always chased the biggest fights in the sport because I know I am one of the best boxers in the world. Teofimo Lopez will learn that firsthand on January 31 when I take his belt and show him that there are levels to this game," Stevenson said, according to <a href="https://ringmagazine.com/en/news/shakur-stevenson-vs-teofimo-lopez-set-for-jan-31-at-msg-in-new-york-1">Ring Magazine's Manouk Akopyan</a>. "New York, get ready for a spectacular performance as I take over a fourth straight weight division."</p><p>Lopez, 23-1, has held the WBO junior welterweight belt since June 2023 when he defeated Josh Taylor by unanimous decision at MSG. He's successfully defended the title via three unanimous decisions since, most recently against Arnold Barboza Jr. at Times Square in May.</p><p> </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 12: Shakur Stevenson looks on after defeating William Zepeda in their WBC lightweight title fight at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on July 12, 2025 in New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33546780/related

Stevenson moving up to fight Lopez for WBO junior welterweight belt

James Harden is sounding the alarm.  Saturday's 114-110 loss to the Dallas Mavericks capped a bru...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> is sounding the alarm.</p><p>Saturday's 114-110 loss to the Dallas Mavericks capped a brutal month for the Los Angeles Clippers, during which they won just two of 15 games. As a result, the experienced squad now sits closer to the bottom of the Western Conference than a spot in the play-in.</p><p>"Situation here is difficult," Harden said after the latest defeat, according to <a href="https://x.com/joeylinn_/status/1995012832891736444">Sports Illustrated's Joey Linn</a>. "We're not making shots offensively. Defensively, the game plan mistakes we allow to happen too many times. That's one of the reasons why we lose games."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Los Angeles led for most of Saturday's matchup but couldn't hold off a Mavericks rally that began late in the third quarter. After a three by Harden gave the Clippers a 77-69 lead with just under five minutes left in the frame, Dallas responded with a 14-6 run to tie the game entering the fourth. That set the scene for a 17-point final quarter from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a> to seal a comeback win.</p><p>Harden scored 29 points but shot just 5-of-17 (2-of-6 on threes) from the field. He added eight rebounds and 11 assists but had a game-high seven turnovers.</p><p>Mavericks star rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171822" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171822">Cooper Flagg</a>, meanwhile, had the best game of his career. The No. 1 pick tallied a personal-best 35 points on 13-of-22 shooting to go with eight rebounds and two assists.</p><p>Only three teams - the Washington Wizards, Sacramento Kings, and Utah Jazz - have been worse defensively this month than the Clippers, who allowed 120.5 points per 100 possessions. Los Angeles' .133 winning percentage in November is tied for the second-worst in the month in franchise history; the 1994-95 team went 0-13 in November 1994. That Clippers squad finished the regular season with the league's worst record at 17-65, nine games back of the second-worst.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 29: James Harden #1 of the Los Angeles Clippers reacts after a no foul call during the first quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at Intuit Dome on November 29, 2025 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33532469/related

Harden: Clippers in 'difficult' situation after rough November

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo on Friday warned his teammates against any self-servin...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> on Friday warned his teammates against any self-serving mindsets after a defeat to the New York Knicks stretched their losing streak to seven games.</p><p>"Nobody should have a personal agenda. Nobody should worry about what they want from themselves," Antetokounmpo said following the 118-109 loss, courtesy of <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47134962/giannis-urges-bucks-fix-mindset-7th-straight-loss">ESPN's Tim Bontemps</a>, which also eliminated the Bucks from the NBA Cup.</p><p>"Worry only about winning mentality. Winning mindset. The more we can win the games, the more everything takes care of itself."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Antetokounmpo had missed four straight games with a groin strain before returning for Friday's defeat and putting up 30 points, 15 rebounds, eight assists, and a steal. However, a minutes restriction capped the nine-time All-Star and two-time MVP to 28 minutes, well below the 33.4 he averaged in 12 games before suffering the injury Nov. 17 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>The former Finals MVP was one of just two Bucks players with a positive plus-minus Friday. Antetokounmpo was a plus-2, while veteran teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30845" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30845">Bobby Portis</a> led the team with a plus-3.</p><p>"You cannot worry about one shot or two shots that you miss, which took four seconds out of the game to dictate 47 minutes, 56 seconds of the game," Antetokounmpo added. "So we got to get back to that mindset. We got to get into the mindset that we got to compete.</p><p>"We got to get to the mindset that this is not a one-man show, that we have to do it together."</p><p>The loss also prevented the Bucks, stuck in 11th, from gaining ground in the East. A victory would have put Milwaukee on equal footing with the Chicago Bulls at nine wins each (albeit with two more losses) after the latter lost to the Charlotte Hornets on Friday.</p><p>Milwaukee's seven-game losing streak is its longest since an eight-game skid in March 2014 at the tail end of Antetokounmpo's rookie year. The Bucks finished that season with the worst record in the NBA at 15-67.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 28: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks looks on from the bench in the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on November 28, 2025 in New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33510950/related

Giannis: No Bucks player should have 'personal agenda' amid 7-game slide

Dallas Mavericks star forward Anthony Davis is available Friday against the Los Angeles Lakers af...

<p>Dallas Mavericks star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> is available Friday against the Los Angeles Lakers after missing a month due to a strained calf, the team announced prior to tipoff.</p><p>It will be the first time that Davis plays in L.A. against his former team since coming to the Mavericks in the February trade that shipped <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> to the Lakers. Davis faced his old teammates for the first time after the swap in Dallas on April 9, putting up 13 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists in 33 minutes in a 112-97 loss.</p><p>Davis averaged 25 points, 11.8 rebounds, 1.8 steals, and 1.5 blocks through the first four games of the season before suffering the calf injury six-and-a-half minutes into his fifth contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old has played in 14 of 49 games dating back to his Mavericks debut, during which he suffered a groin injury that caused him to miss the next 18 games.</p><p>Dallas is 3-11 without the 10-time All-Star this season and now sits in a tie with the Sacramento Kings for second last in the Western Conference. The Mavericks went 6-12 without Davis last season, during which time they fell from eighth to 10th. Although they defeated the Kings in their first play-in tournament matchup, they were eliminated in their second with a 120-106 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.</p>

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 1: Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks stretches before the game against the Detroit Pistons as part of the NBA Mexico Games 2025 on November 1, 2025 at Arena Ciudad de Mexico in Mexico City, Mexico. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33494417/related

Davis returns vs. Lakers after month-long absence

Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs was ejected with 26.6 seconds left in the first half of Tuesday's...

<p>Orlando Magic guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96087">Jalen Suggs</a> was ejected with 26.6 seconds left in the first half of Tuesday's lopsided 144-103 victory against the Philadelphia 76ers after getting assessed two technical fouls during one play.</p><p>Following a minor altercation at the top of the arc between centers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60230" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60230">Wendell Carter Jr.</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12400" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12400">Andre Drummond</a>, Suggs escalated tensions by shoving Drummond, sparking a renewed scuffle that coaches and officials initially seemed to have under control. However, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102803" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102803">Jabari Walker</a> then confronted Suggs before Magic coaches pulled the guard away.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tempers flare between the Magic and 76ers, leading to Jalen Suggs getting ejected. <a href="https://t.co/Ue7ZbyOcQL">pic.twitter.com/Ue7ZbyOcQL</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1993506841658376390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Drummond and Walker each received a technical foul, as did Carter and Magic guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93901" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93901">Desmond Bane</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Orlando led by 24 during the incident and finished with 86 points before halftime, setting a new franchise record for the most points in any half. Third-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110254" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110254">Anthony Black</a> played a large part in the Magic's offensive explosion, posting 27 points on 10-of-14 shooting (4-of-5 from deep) through the first two quarters. Black finished with a game-high 31 points.</p><p>The victory moves the Magic to 3-0 in the NBA Cup and top spot in Group B, while the 76ers fall to 0-3 and are officially eliminated from contention.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 25: Jabari Walker #33 of the Philadelphia 76ers gets into an altercation with Jalen Suggs #4 of the Orlando Magic in the first half during the 2025-26 Emirates NBA Cup game at Xfinity Mobile Arena on November 25, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33463504/related

Magic's Suggs ejected from win over 76ers after skirmish

The Detroit Pistons defeated the Indiana Pacers 122-117 on Monday, stretching their winning strea...

<p>The Detroit Pistons defeated the Indiana Pacers 122-117 on Monday, stretching their winning streak to 13 games and tying the franchise record.</p><p>Detroit last won 13 straight during the 2003-04 season, which ended with the team's most recent NBA title. The Pistons also recorded a 13-game win streak in the 1989-90 campaign, when they claimed their second straight championship of the Bad Boys era.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> led Detroit with 24<strong> </strong>points on Monday, adding 11 rebounds and six assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24860" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24860">Caris LeVert</a> scored a season-high 19 off the bench with a team-high three 3-pointers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>J.B. Bickerstaff's squad will have a chance to entrench itself in franchise lore Wednesday when it visits the Boston Celtics.</p><p>"It's amazing. We play for the Detroit Pistons, man. A historic franchise," Cunningham <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1993153881111773533">said</a> in a postgame on-court interview. "To be able to make history for a historic franchise like this, it's special. We're excited about the opportunity.</p><p>"Going up against the Celtics in Boston - tough place to play, a team with championship identity. It'll be a great test for us and we're excited to get out there."</p><p>Pascal Siakam posted 24 points for the Pacers, who fell to 2-14 this season.</p><p>The Pistons, meanwhile, remain on top of the Eastern Conference at 15-2. Their streak also helped them tie the 2004-05 team for the fastest pace to 15 wins in a season in franchise history.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - NOVEMBER 24: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons dribbles the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers on November 24, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33449622/related

Pistons hold off Pacers for 13th straight win, matching franchise mark

Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro intends to return for Monday's matchup against the Dallas Mavericks ...

<p>Miami Heat guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> intends to return for Monday's matchup against the Dallas Mavericks at home, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1992762270527701285">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Herro has missed the first 17 games of the season recovering from ankle surgery in September.</p><p>The 25-year-old led the Heat in scoring and assists last season with 23.9 and 5.5 per game, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Despite the one-time All-Star's unavailability through the first fifth of the campaign, Erik Spoelstra's squad has held its own in the Eastern Conference. Sunday's 127-117 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers was Miami's seventh win in their last nine games, elevating them to third in the conference with a 11-6 record on the year.</p><p>Part of their success has been thanks to a stingy Heat defense. Miami is surrendering 111.2 points per 100 possessions, the fourth-best mark in the NBA. They also boast the league's quickest pace of play at 106.4 possessions per 48 minutes, which offsets an offensive efficiency (116.6) that ranks closer to league average (12th).</p>

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 16: Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat poses for a photo during the game against the Chicago Bulls during the 2025 SoFi Play-In Tournament on April 16, 2025 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33435473/related

Report: Herro to make season debut vs. Mavs

The Dallas Wings won the 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery on Sunday and will select first overall for a se...

<p>The Dallas Wings won the 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery on Sunday and will select first overall for a second straight year.</p><p>Following the Wings in April's draft will be the Minnesota Lynx, Seattle Storm, Washington Mystics, and Chicago Sky.</p><p>The odds for landing the No. 1 pick were determined by the cumulative records over the last two seasons of the five teams that didn't make the playoffs in 2025.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pick</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>No. 1 odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Dallas Wings</td>
<td>42.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Minnesota Lynx (via CHI)</td>
<td>26.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Seattle Storm (via LA)</td>
<td>16.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Washington Mystics</td>
<td>9.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Chicago Sky (via CON)</td>
<td>5.5%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The WNBA's 2026 expansion franchises, the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, will receive the first non-lottery selections at Nos. 6 and 7. The league will decide the order of those picks by a coin flip at a later date.</p><p>The rest of the first round is as follows.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pick</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Toronto Tempo/Portland Fire</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Toronto Tempo/Portland Fire</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Golden State Valkyries</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Washington Mystics (via SEA)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Indiana Fever</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>Washington Mystics (via NY)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Connecticut Sun (via PHX)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Atlanta Dream</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>Seattle Storm (via LV)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>Connecticut Sun (via MIN)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>Toronto and Portland will also take part in an expansion draft, though its date has yet to be announced. Details surrounding the event are pending the formulation of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).</em></p><p>Forward Maddy Siegrist represented Dallas at the lottery. The Villanova product was also in attendance last year when the Wings won the No. 1 pick that became <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/171763" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/171763">Paige Bueckers</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Maddy Siegrist does it again 🤗<br><br>The <a href="https://twitter.com/DallasWings?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dallaswings</a> will get the No.1 Pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft! <a href="https://t.co/ooWCH7eTa2">pic.twitter.com/ooWCH7eTa2</a></p>— WNBA (@WNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WNBA/status/1992746794552610816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>UCLA center Lauren Betts, TCU playmaker Olivia Miles, and UConn shooting guard Azzi Fudd are considered among the best North American players likely to be available during the 2026 draft, while Spanish center Awa Fam is also potentially in play with at No. 1. The event, which will take place April 13, is comprised of 45 picks across three rounds.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Year</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Chance</th>
<th>1st Pick</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2025</td>
<td>Wings</td>
<td>22.7%</td>
<td>Paige Bueckers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2024</td>
<td>Fever</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Caitlin Clark</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023</td>
<td>Fever</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Aliyah Boston</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2022</td>
<td>Mystics (traded to Dream)</td>
<td>17.8%</td>
<td>Rhyne Howard</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2021</td>
<td>Liberty (traded to Wings)</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Charli Collier</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2020</td>
<td>Liberty</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Sabrina Ionescu</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2019</td>
<td>Aces</td>
<td>27.6%</td>
<td>Jackie Young</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2018</td>
<td>Aces</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>A'ja Wilson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2017</td>
<td>Stars</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Kelsey Plum</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2016</td>
<td>Storm</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Breanna Stewart</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The previous 10 first overall selections include several players who have found considerable success as pros. Only one hasn't made an All-Star game (Charli Collier), with the other nine combining for 35 such appearances. Each of the last four top picks - and six of the 10 (A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart) - won Rookie of the Year. Wilson (four) and Stewart (two) have six combined MVP honors as well.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 23: Maddy Siegrist of the Dallas Wings holds up the number 1 sign as the Dallas Wings wins the first pick during the 2026 WNBA draft lottery on November 23, 2025 at the ESPN studios in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33433462/related

Wings win 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery, land 2nd straight No. 1 pick

Klay Thompson and Ja Morant had to be separated by teammates and coaches at the end of the Memphi...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> had to be separated by teammates and coaches at the end of the Memphis Grizzlies' 102-96 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday.</p><p>As both teams made their way off the court, Morant, who did not play, appeared to taunt Thompson while pointing his finger in the Mavericks vet's face. Thompson approached Morant in response, but personnel from both teams quickly stepped in as Thompson was pulled away to the tunnel.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here’s what led to Klay Thompson getting upset at Ja Morant, he point his finger in Klay’s face <a href="https://t.co/qwEO1U9ZsE">pic.twitter.com/qwEO1U9ZsE</a></p>— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) <a href="https://twitter.com/big_business_/status/1992452287957291225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/l3U7ac2C5s">pic.twitter.com/l3U7ac2C5s</a></p>— Moonball (@moonball30) <a href="https://twitter.com/moonball30/status/1992442625400676729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"He's a funny guy," Thompson said of Morant postgame, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/DLLS_Mavs/status/1992460346758737939">DLLS Sports</a>. "He has a lot to say, all the time, especially for a guy who rarely takes accountability, but you know what, that's for another day."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>When asked specifically what Morant said, Thompson didn't specify, but said he took exception to the Grizzlies guard talking trash despite being sidelined with a calf strain.</p><p>Saturday was Morant's fourth absence in Memphis' last five games, including a third straight for the Grizzlies guard. The 26-year-old was limited to just 59 games combined over the previous two seasons due to suspensions and multiple injuries.</p><p>"Nothing of intelligent depth. It was really just his running his mouth," Thompson said. "He's been running his mouth for a long time. It's funny to run your mouth when you're on the bench.</p><p>"It's kind of been the story of his career so far, leaving us wanting more. We all want to see him out there and do his best. He's just been letting a lot of other stuff get in the way of that. ... We need our best (NBA) players to be out there. When you're a star, it comes with a great responsibility. I hate to see that go to waste."</p><p>Morant appeared to take another postgame dig at Thompson when he interrupted an on-court interview involving teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121733" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121733">Cam Spencer</a>, who finished with 17 points off the bench on 6-of-10 shooting (3-of-5 from three).</p><p>"Tell 'em who the best shooter in the house was," Morant appears to say on the <a href="https://x.com/Matt_Infield/status/1992444010653536734">broadcast</a>. "It wasn't bro from Golden State."</p><p>Morant and Thompson have become well-acquainted with each other dating back to the latter's time with the Golden State Warriors. A feud between the two teams first developed in 2021 when Morant and Memphis defeated Golden State in the play-in tournament, though Thompson and the Warriors got even the following year when they won their second-round playoff series in six games.</p>

DALLAS, TX - NOVEMBER 22: Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks smiles during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on November 22, 2025 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33419922/related

Klay rips Morant: 'Guy who rarely takes accountability'

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo will miss one-to-two weeks due to a groin strain, sour...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> will miss one-to-two weeks due to a groin strain, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1990906503725736019">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Antetokounmpo suffered the injury Monday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, limiting him to just 13 minutes in the 118-16 loss.</p><p>"I don't know what grade it is, but I know it's not a bad one," Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said Tuesday of Antetokounmpo's diagnosis, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNMilwaukee/status/1990900184658669664">ESPN Milwaukee</a>. "That's good news for us. ... Probably two weeks he'll be out - hopefully less."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The former MVP is averaging 31.2 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 6.8 assists in 13 starts this season. He leads the NBA in field goals per game, hitting 12 of 19.1 attempts on average. His 62.9% field-goal percentage ranks eighth in the league.</p><p>Milwaukee has essentially been a different team without Antetokounmpo on the floor. His 7.1 on-court net rating is best of any Buck who's played at least 10 total minutes this season. When the nine-time All-Star rests, the team's net rating drops to minus-11.9, the worst off-court mark involving any Bucks player.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 17: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 and Myles Turner #3 of the Milwaukee Bucks celebrate during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on November 17, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33348627/related

Report: Giannis out 1-2 weeks with groin strain

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/jonathan-soveta/content_cards

Jonathan Soveta

News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/tom-ruminski/content_cards

Tom Ruminski

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/michael-j-chandler/content_cards