New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III will miss the rest of the season after suffering a t...

<p>New Orleans Pelicans forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96120">Trey Murphy III</a> will miss the rest of the season after suffering a torn labrum and partial rotator cuff tear in his right shoulder, the team announced.</p><p>Murphy suffered the injury in the first quarter of Monday's 127-81 loss against the Detroit Pistons. The 24-year-old's arm became <a href="https://x.com/TrendingSportsP/status/1901803453443199081">entangled</a> in the legs of Pistons wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110235" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110235">Ausar Thompson</a> after diving for a loose ball, causing a dislocation of his shoulder.</p><p>A subsequent MRI revealed the tears, the team said.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Murphy emerged as a bright spot in a bleak Pelicans season that's been decimated by injuries. The 6-foot-8 wing came into Monday's game averaging career highs of 21.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, and he's one of just six players on the team to appear in at least 50 contests this season.</p><p>New Orleans, which has already been eliminated from playoff contention, owns the fourth-worst record in the league at 18-51. The franchise controls its own first-round pick this summer, which currently stands a 12.5% chance of becoming the No. 1 selection.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 13: Trey Murphy III #25 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles the ball during the game against the Orlando Magic on March 13, 2025 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Pelicans' Murphy done for season with torn labrum

No Nikola Jokic. No Jamal Murray. No problem.  Aaron Gordon scored a season-high 38 points and Ru...

<p>No <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>. No <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a>. No problem.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> scored a season-high 38 points and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> added a triple-double with 16 assists as the Nuggets fended off the Golden State Warriors 114-105 to end their winning streak at seven games.</p><p>Jokic was sidelined due to an elbow contusion and an ankle impingement, while Murray was out with left knee inflammation. The Nuggets were also without starting guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a> due to inflammation in his left foot.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gordon, who missed Denver's 126-123 loss to the Washington Wizards on Saturday with calf and ankle issues, shot 14-of-23 from the field, including 4-of-6 from deep. His 38 points are the most he's scored for the Nuggets since arriving in a midseason trade in March of 2021. It's also three points shy of matching his career high, which he set as a member of the Orlando Magic in October 2017.</p><p>The Warriors, meanwhile, struggled to find their shot, shooting a collective 24.2% (8-of-33) from beyond the arc. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> led Steve Kerr's squad with 23 points to go with eight rebounds, six assists, two steals, and a block, but was just 1-of-4 from three. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> added 20 points and seven assists but also had an off-shooting night, going 4-of-14 from distance as part of an overall 6-of-21 performance while contributing seven turnovers.</p><p>"The right team won," Kerr said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/NotoriousOHM/status/1901860872500420738">ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk</a>. "We didn’t deserve that … We got what we deserved, for sure."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60530" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60530">Michael Porter Jr.</a> chipped in with 21 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and two steals in the win, which kept Denver on equal footing with the Houston Rockets for the Western Conference's No. 2 seed. The Rockets temporarily pulled ahead earlier Monday with a 144-137 overtime win over the Philadelphia 76ers.</p><p>Monday's encounter was Denver's third game in four nights following a Friday-Saturday back-to-back at home against the Los Angeles Lakers and Washington Wizards.</p><p>The Nuggets face the Lakers again Wednesday in L.A.</p><p>Jokic is building a strong case for a fourth MVP award in five seasons. The 30-year-old Serbian is averaging a triple-double of 29.1 points, 12.8 rebounds, 10.3 assists, and 1.8 steals, while shooting a career-high 41.3% from distance on 4.6 attempts per game.</p><p>Murray, meanwhile, has been one of the Nuggets' hottest scorers since the All-Star break. He's averaged 23.2 points per game in 13 contests and is hitting 46.7% of his threes.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MARCH 17: Aaron Gordon #32 of the Denver Nuggets drives to the basket during the game against the Golden State Warriors on March 17, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Gordon drops 38, Nuggets snap Warriors' 7-game streak without Jokic, Murray

Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal will miss at least one week with a hamstring strain, head coach M...

<p>Phoenix Suns guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> will miss at least one week with a hamstring strain, head coach Mike Budenholzer said Monday, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/GeraldBourguet/status/1901790816944988611">Gerald Bourguet of PHNX</a>.</p><p>Beal sustained the injury Sunday against the Los Angeles Lakers.</p><p>Monday's matchup against the Toronto Raptors will be the 21st game Beal misses this season. The 31-year-old was sidelined for five consecutive games in November with a calf injury and missed four straight contests in early February due to an ankle sprain. The Suns went a combined 1-8 in those games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Beal is averaging 17.3 points, 3.6 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and one steal in 48 games this season (33 starts). He's also posting 50.5/39.5/81.3 shooting splits.</p><p>Phoenix could be without the three-time All-Star during a pivotal portion of its remaining schedule. The Suns sit 1.5 games back of the final play-in seed, which is occupied by the reeling Dallas Mavericks, and are home for five consecutive games, beginning Monday against Toronto. They host three of the East's top four teams - the Cleveland Cavaliers (March 21), Milwaukee Bucks (March 24), and Boston Celtics (March 26) - in the backend of the five-game homestand.</p><p>The Suns are also attempting to stave off a late-season push by the Portland Trail Blazers. Chauncey Billups' squad remains just two games adrift of Phoenix despite going 2-6 in March so far.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 14: Bradley Beal #3 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on March 14, 2025 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Beal out at least 1 week with hamstring strain

The New York Liberty landed veteran guard Natasha Cloud from the Connecticut Sun in exchange for ...

<p>The New York Liberty landed veteran guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18106" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18106">Natasha Cloud</a> from the Connecticut Sun in exchange for first-round picks in consecutive drafts, the teams <a href="https://twitter.com/nyliberty/status/1901433842969301172">announced</a> Sunday.</p><p>New York is sending Connecticut the seventh overall pick in this year's draft and a first-rounder in 2026.</p><p>Cloud spent the 2024 campaign with the Phoenix Mercury after playing eight seasons with the Washington Mystics, which drafted her 15th overall in 2015. She started all 38 regular-season games for Phoenix last season, averaging 11.5 points, 6.9 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.4 steals. She also earned a spot on the All-Defensive second team, marking the third All-Defensive recognition of her career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 33-year-old, who will likely fill the gap in the rotation created by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/15298" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/15298">Courtney Vandersloot</a>'s return to the Chicago Sky, provides the defending champs with more security behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27502" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27502">Breanna Stewart</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55066" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55066">Sabrina Ionescu</a>, . The duo led the Liberty to the franchise's first championship in 2024 and were complimented by a solid, defensive-minded supporting cast that included <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/21760" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/21760">Betnijah Laney-Hamilton</a> and former MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27540" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27540">Jonquel Jones</a>.</p><p>Connecticut acquired Cloud from Phoenix in February as part of a four-team blockbuster. That deal was headlined by the Sun sending five-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18102" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18102">Alyssa Thomas</a> to the Mercury following 11 seasons in Connecticut.</p>

COLLEGE PARK, GA AUGUST 21: Phoenix guard Natasha Cloud (0) reacts during the WNBA game between the Phoenix Mercury and the Atlanta Dream on August 21st, 2024 at the Gateway Arena in College Park, GA.

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Liberty acquire Cloud in trade with Sun

Cooper Flagg's ACC Tournament is officially over.  The star freshman will not suit up for Saturda...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a>'s ACC Tournament is officially over.</p><p>The star freshman will not suit up for Saturday's final against Louisville after sustaining an ankle sprain in Duke's quarterfinal win over Georgia Tech, head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed Friday. </p><p>"All the imaging came back negative, but he sprained it pretty good," Scheyer said after the Blue Devils defeated rival North Carolina 74-71 to punch their ticket to the final, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44258036/cooper-flagg-doing-better-saturday-jon-scheyer-says">ESPN's David Hale</a>. "It's a good sprain. I'm not breaking any news. He's not going to play (Saturday)."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Flagg turned his ankle as he came down with a defensive rebound in the first half of Tuesday's matchup. He played just 15 minutes, finishing with two points on 1-of-7 shooting, but he pitched in with four rebounds, two steals, and a block.</p><p>The 18-year-old averaged 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks during the regular season, helping the Blue Devils go 28-3 and set themselves up as the top seed in the ACC Tournament.</p><p>Duke will likely be named a regional No. 1 in the NCAA Tournament on Selection Sunday regardless of Saturday's result. Scheyer said the team is prioritizing having Flagg healthy for the national competition, which could see Duke play again as soon as Thursday.</p><p>"Our goal is to have him ready for the tournament," the coach said. "But we need to see how this weekend goes with the swelling and what he can do."</p><p>Tuesday's win was Flagg's first - and likely last - appearance in the ACC Tournament. He's widely projected to be the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, which will be held on June 25.</p>

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 13: Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils looks on during the first half against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in a quarterfinal game of the ACC men's basketball tournament at Spectrum Center on March 13, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Flagg to miss Duke's ACC Tournament final vs. Louisville

That's now 16 in a row for the Cleveland Cavaliers.  Evan Mobley scored 22 points and had 11 rebo...

<p>That's now 16 in a row for the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> scored 22 points and had 11 rebounds as the Cavaliers defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 133-124 Friday night for a franchise-record 16th consecutive victory.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> added 20 points and nine assists for Cleveland, which used 13 different players in the contest. However, Kenny Atkinson's squad was without star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a>, who missed a second consecutive game because of groin soreness.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Cavaliers' 16-game streak is the longest stretch of victories by any team this season. It overtakes their 15-game run that opened the 2024-25 campaign, and it surpasses a similar 15-game spell by the Oklahoma City Thunder from Dec. 3 to Jan. 5. That Thunder streak was snapped by the Cavaliers on Jan. 8.</p><p>Grizzlies guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> had a personal season high of 44 points in the loss.</p><p>Prior to this season, Cleveland's previous record for consecutive wins was 13, which it accomplished three times with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> on the roster (2008-09, 2009-10, and 2017-18).</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - MARCH 14: Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 14, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Cavs top Grizzlies to notch franchise-record 16th straight win

Dallas Mavericks guard Dante Exum fractured a bone in his left hand Friday against the Houston Ro...

<p>Dallas Mavericks guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37597" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37597">Dante Exum</a> fractured a bone in his left hand Friday against the Houston Rockets and will be sidelined at least four weeks, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>His injury is another blow for the depleted Mavericks, who were missing eight players against Houston.</p><p>Exum went to the locker room at the 6:47 mark of the second quarter and was subsequently ruled out for the remainder of the contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 29-year-old guard was playing in just his 18th game of the season. He missed the first three months of the 2024-25 campaign recovering from surgery on his right wrist.</p><p>Dallas is already missing starting point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> for the rest of the season after the nine-time All-Star tore his ACL on March 3. Star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, the marquee return in the shocking blockbuster that sent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> to the Los Angeles Lakers, still has no return timetable after suffering an adductor strain in his team debut on Feb. 8.</p><p>Several other frequent starters were absent Friday, including center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Daniel Gafford</a> and forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60416" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60416">P.J. Washington</a>. Both Gafford and Washington sustained their respective knee and ankle sprains after the Doncic trade. Meanwhile, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110268" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110268">Dereck Lively II</a> hasn't played since Jan. 14 because of a foot fracture. He was expected to miss two-to-three months, but it remains unclear if he'll return this season.</p><p>Exum, who was selected fifth overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2014 draft, was averaging a career-high 9.5 points to go along with 2.9 assists entering Friday's action. He was also shooting 44.7% from three on 2.8 attempts per contest.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TX - MARCH 12: Dante Exum #0 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on March 12, 2025 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Mavs' Exum out at least 4 weeks with fractured hand

The NBA fined the Utah Jazz $100,000 for failing to make star forward Lauri Markkanen available i...

<p>The NBA fined the Utah Jazz $100,000 for failing to make star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53404" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53404">Lauri Markkanen</a> available in recent games.</p><p>The league cited the Jazz's March 5 contest against Washington as an example but said there were other instances.</p><p>Markkanen has missed nine straight contests with what the team calls low back injury management. He's set to make his return Wednesday against the Memphis Grizzlies after originally being listed as questionable.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The NBA's player participation policy mandates that teams make their star players available for nationally televised games as well as the in-season tournament. A star player is defined by the league as any player who was an All-Star or made All-NBA selection in the previous three seasons. The policy also prohibits teams from shutting down such players for any long-term basis.</p><p>Markkanen was named an All-Star in 2022-23, his only selection to date.</p><p>The 27-year-old is averaging 19.3 points and 6.1 rebounds this season in 43 contests.</p><p>The Jazz are already eliminated from playoff contention. At 15-50, they possess the second-worst record in the NBA and are on pace for a three-way tie in which they would hold 14% odds of landing the No. 1 pick in the draft lottery.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - DECEMBER 8: Lauri Markkanen #23 of the Utah Jazz looks on from the bench during the game against the Sacramento Kings on December 8, 2024 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 2024 NBAE

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Jazz fined $100K for holding out Markkanen

Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis revealed that his absence over the last two weeks has be...

<p>Boston Celtics center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a> revealed that his absence over the last two weeks has been due to an unidentified illness.</p><p>"I have been dealing with some viral illness that we haven't been able to fully identify yet," the Latvian big <a href="https://x.com/kporzee/status/1899256290700063075">said</a> on social media. "I am recovering and getting better. But still working my way back to full strength to help this team. Thanks for (the) support and I'm hoping for a healthy return soon."</p><p>Porzingis' last on-court appearance was Feb. 26 in a 20-point loss to the Detroit Pistons. The 7-foot-2 center played 26 minutes but shot just 4-of-11 from the floor in an 11-point performance. A day earlier, he was a late scratch against the Toronto Raptors with a non-COVID illness. He's been unavailable for the team's last six contests with the same designation.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Porzingis also missed a Jan. 22 win over the Los Angeles Clippers due to illness.</p><p>The 29-year-old is averaging 18.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.6 blocks in 32 outings for the Celtics this season. He missed the first 17 games of the campaign while recovering from surgery in June for a rare ankle injury.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 27: Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the second quarter at TD Garden on January 27, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Porzingis says unidentified 'viral illness' behind extended absence

ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith confirmed Friday that he was confronted by LeBron James over hi...

<p>ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith confirmed Friday that he was confronted by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> over his coverage of Bronny James, LeBron's son and rookie teammate.</p><p>The brief, face-to-face exchange was captured by a fan at Crypto.com Arena following the Los Angeles Lakers' 113-109 overtime win against the New York Knicks on Thursday. LeBron appeared upset with Smith as he said something to the 57-year-old and turned toward the locker room.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xo7axOYiIg8?si=J_D7s5MQZJpGgfnH" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Smith addressed the incident on "First Take." The confrontation was unexpected, according to <a href="https://youtu.be/KOSrwOhHbS8?t=23">Smith</a>, who said he couldn't repeat what LeBron told him because the words aren't "suited for FCC airwaves."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The analyst added that he initially didn't want to discuss the altercation publicly but was contacted by several people after the footage went viral.</p><p>"That wasn't a basketball player confronting me. That was a parent. That was a father," Smith <a href="https://youtu.be/KOSrwOhHbS8?t=76">said</a>. "And I can't sit here and be angry, or feel slighted, by LeBron James in any way in that regard.</p><p>"By all accounts, he's obviously a wonderful family man and a wonderful father who cares very, very deeply about his son. And based on some of the comments that he had heard - or shall I say, I think he thought he heard - he clearly took exception to some of the things he heard me say and he confronted me about it."</p><p>Smith publicly rebuked Bronny on a Jan. 29 episode of "First Take" after the 20-year-old was held scoreless over 15 minutes against the Philadelphia 76ers the previous night. He <a href="https://youtu.be/8sTazyn-EOU?t=111">claimed</a> the rookie was "in the NBA because of his dad" and issued a public plea to LeBron to acknowledge his son was "not ready yet" for the league.</p><p>On an episode of his podcast later that day, Smith <a href="https://x.com/Thetruth8240/status/1885465572030415333">revealed</a> his comments attracted the attention of members of LeBron's camp, who said he had questioned the Lakers star as a father. Smith took issue with the complaints and called LeBron's sensitivity "beyond the pale."</p><p>The New York native has also voiced his support for Bronny's NBA career, notably <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1njzL9WE1J0">calling out critics</a> who cited nepotism after the Lakers drafted the USC product 55th overall in the 2024 draft.</p><p>Smith has worked in several radio and television roles throughout multiple stints with ESPN over two decades. He recently agreed to a new five-year contract with the network worth at least $100 million, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6181819/2025/03/06/stephen-a-smith-contract-espn-first-take/">The Athletic's Andrew Marchand</a>.</p>

Los Angeles, CA - March 03: LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers greets ESPNs Stephen A. Smith prior to a NBA basketball game against the LA Clippers at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Thursday, March 3, 2022.

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Stephen A. Smith: LeBron confrontation was due to Bronny coverage

Dallas Mavericks assistant Alex Jensen accepted Utah's offer to become the program's next head co...

<p>Dallas Mavericks assistant Alex Jensen accepted Utah's offer to become the program's next head coach, the school announced Thursday.</p><p>Jensen, a Utah native, played four seasons with the Utes from 1994-2000 under late Hall of Fame coach Rick Majerus. He returned from a two-year Latter-day Saints mission in England ahead of his sophomore campaign in 1997-98, during which he was a full-time starter on the Utes squad that fell to Kentucky in the NCAA Tournament final. As a senior, he averaged 13.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 1999-2000.</p><p>"My basketball journey has been filled with so many people who have helped shape me as a coach and as a person, ultimately guiding me to this opportunity to lead the Runnin' Utes basketball program," Jensen said in a statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm thankful for all of the great mentors I've had along the way as I embark on this next step to lead Utah Basketball. This is an exciting chapter for my family and me, and I'm looking forward to returning to a place that has meant so much to me. I can't wait to get to work with our student-athletes, coaches, and the university as we move forward to achieve our goals."</p><p>Former Utes guard and NBA journeyman Andre Miller is a candidate to join Jensen's coaching staff, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/MattNorlander/status/1897701154127016348">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>. The two were teammates in Utah for two seasons, beginning with the 1997-98 squad that made the national final.</p><p>Jensen, 48, replaces Craig Smith, who the Utes dismissed Feb. 24. Smith went 15-12 in the team's debut Big 12 season and amassed a 65-62 record over four campaigns.</p><p>Jensen joined Jason Kidd's staff on the Mavs ahead of the 2023-24 campaign after a decade in the same role with the Utah Jazz. He was named the 2013 G League Coach of the Year during a two-year stint with the Canton Charge, the Cleveland Cavaliers' affiliate.</p><p>After going undrafted in 2000, Jensen embarked on an eight-year professional career with stops in Turkey, Spain, Japan, and the United States for one season in the now-defunct Continental Basketball Association. He spent most of his playing days in Turkey, where he represented four clubs.</p>

BOSTON, MA - JUNE 9: Head Coach Jason Kidd of the Dallas Mavericks, Assistant Coach Alex Jensen of the Dallas Mavericks and Assistant Coach Jared Dudley of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the game against the Boston Celtics during Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Finals on June 9, 2024 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Utah Utes hire Mavs assistant Jensen as head coach

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant says there was nothing to a seemingly heated first-quarter discuss...

<p>Phoenix Suns star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> says there was nothing to a seemingly heated first-quarter discussion Wednesday between him and head coach Mike Budenholzer.</p><p>"That's what usually happens when you don't know dynamics of the relationship; you catch something on TV, you get a quote and now you're pushing that narrative as if me and Bud don't do that shit all the time," Durant <a href="https://youtu.be/3gktCZ7KUfo?t=409">said</a> after the Suns' 119-117 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. "We (are) competitive as two individuals who want to see things done the right way, and sometimes my way ain't the way that Bud wants to do it and vice versa, and he allows me as a player on the team, a veteran on the team, to voice my opinion.</p><p>"If we both didn't care, we would never have stuff like that. You know what I'm saying? So I'm glad that the win is going to sweep all of that stupid stuff under the rug, because people couldn't wait. Even some people in Phoenix, in here, couldn't wait to run with that and say, 'This is the reason why the team ain't playing well, because of that specific thing.' But come on, man, that shows that me and Bud really care about trying to right this ship and trying to win basketball games. He understands where I'm coming from. I understand exactly where he's coming from."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Budenholzer reached out to grab Durant's left arm as the Suns walked off the court during a timeout, and they appeared to discuss something ahead of the huddle. That prompted Durant to suddenly pull his arm away before turning back to the coach and continuing the conversation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Cb_6-25wMoo?si=yy2exm2ZUWwrM_d-" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Budenholzer echoed Durant's sentiments about the altercation and praised the 36-year-old's leadership throughout the rest of the contest.</p><p>"He and I are like old friends," Budenholzer told <a href="https://youtu.be/3gktCZ7KUfo?t=30">reporters</a>. "We're always probably grabbing and talking to each other. I thought, actually, his energy and his voice tonight (were) great. I think there was some kind of offensive play - he wanted something, I wanted something, and it's the beauty of basketball. But I think as the game, really from that moment - his voice, him talking, feedback, ideas, suggestions, was really a big part of the night."</p><p>Durant played the entire first quarter and scored four of his five points in the frame after the exchange. The 15-time All-Star finished with 34 points on 10-of-22 shooting (4-of-11 from three) and was a perfect 10-of-10 at the free-throw line. He also had seven rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and was the only Suns starter to finish with a positive plus-minus at plus-16.</p><p>The former MVP scored 19 points in the fourth quarter alone, helping Budenholzer's squad erase a 23-point deficit to improve to 29-33.</p><p>Phoenix is now just three games back of the Dallas Mavericks for the final play-in spot in the Western Conference. Dallas has lost four of its last five and will be without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> for the rest of the season after the star guard suffered a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3232791" href="https://thescore.com/news/3232791">torn</a> ACL on Monday.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 22: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns gets instructions from head coach Mike Budenholzer during the fourth quarter against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on February 22, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Toronto Raptors guard Gradey Dick will miss at least two weeks due to bone bruises sustained as a...

<p>Toronto Raptors guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110231" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110231">Gradey Dick</a> will miss at least two weeks due to bone bruises sustained as a result of his hyperextended right knee, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>Dick suffered the hyperextension during Toronto's 104-102 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday. The Raptors had already ruled him out of Tuesday's rematch.</p><p>The Kansas product has significantly jumped in his second professional season, nearly doubling his scoring rate from 8.5 points per game to 14.4. Dick has also entrenched himself in Darko Rajakovic's opening five, starting in all 54 of his appearances and playing just under 30 minutes per contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tuesday's game at Orlando is the Raptors' last away matchup before returning to Toronto for a four-game set through March 12. They then play six of their next seven on the road again, beginning with a four-game trip out West.</p><p>At 19-42, Toronto sits five games off the Eastern Conference's final play-in berth occupied by the Chicago Bulls. However, it would have to vault the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers to get in.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 26: Gradey Dick #1 of the Toronto Raptors looks on in the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 26, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Raptors' Dick out at least 2 weeks with bone bruises

Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving was diagnosed with a torn ACL in his left knee, the team confi...

<p>Dallas Mavericks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> was diagnosed with a torn ACL in his left knee, the team confirmed Tuesday.</p><p>He'll reportedly miss the remainder of the season, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1896951861569351727">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Irving sustained the injury during a layup attempt in the first quarter of Monday's 122-98 loss to the Sacramento Kings. He was helped to the line in order to shoot his free throws but subsequently left the game and didn't return.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QjfMofu4Pm8?si=QR4w5l-GbsaZNqaW&amp;start=10" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.3 steals in 50 games this season while posting 47.3/40.1/91.6 shooting splits.</p><p>The nine-time All-Star's season-ending diagnosis continues a miserable stretch for Dallas that started after it traded the face of the franchise, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>, to the Los Angeles Lakers in early February. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, who joined the Mavericks in the deal, re-aggravated an adductor strain in his Feb. 8 debut for the team and has missed the team's last nine games.</p><p>Dallas has also been without several other key players for extended periods in recent weeks, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60416" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60416">P.J. Washington</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110268" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110268">Dereck Lively II</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Daniel Gafford</a>. Third-year guard Jaden Hardy is also likely to miss time after limping off the court Monday in the third quarter with a sprained right ankle.</p><p>The Mavericks have won just two of six contests since the All-Star break, with their four losses decided by an average margin of 17.8 points. Dallas' two victories since the restart came against the 17-44 New Orleans Pelicans and 14-46 Charlotte Hornets - both of whom rank second last in their respective conferences. The Mavs sit 10th in the West at 32-30, 4.5 games clear of the Phoenix Suns for the final play-in tournament berth.</p>

DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 31: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the game against the Detroit Pistons on January 31, 2025 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. 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

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Kyrie diagnosed with torn ACL, will reportedly miss rest of season

Decorated tennis icon Serena Williams joined the Toronto Tempo's ownership group as a managing pa...

<p>Decorated tennis icon Serena Williams joined the Toronto Tempo's ownership group as a managing partner, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Williams is the first investor to take up an ownership stake in the expansion franchise alongside principal owner Kilmer Sports Ventures, which is helmed by Toronto businessman Larry Tanenbaum.</p><p>"I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo," Williams said in a <a href="https://tempo.wnba.com/news/serena-williams-takes-ownership-stake-in-toronto-tempo">statement</a>. "This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes - I have always said that women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I am excited to partner with Larry and all of Canada in creating this new WNBA franchise and legacy."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGvtuG2x0Sx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGvtuG2x0Sx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>The Tempo said Williams, who made her professional tennis debut in Canada at the 1995 Tournoi de Quebec at the age of 14, will assist in jersey designs as well as merchandise collaborations in the future.</p><p>"Serena is a champion," Tempo president Teresa Resch said. "She's the greatest athlete of all time, and her impact on this team and this country is going to be incredible.</p><p>"She's set the bar for women in sport, business and the world - and her commitment to using that success to create opportunities for other women is inspiring - we're thrilled to be marking the lead-up to International Women's Day with this announcement."</p><p>Williams won 23 Grand Slams during a career spanning nearly three decades, the most in the Open Era and second all-time behind the 24 won by Margaret Court. She also captured four gold medals throughout three Olympic tournaments for the United States; she won three doubles tournaments alongside sister Venus Williams in 2000, 2008, and 2012, and she won the latter's singles competition, defeating longtime rival Maria Sharapova in the London final.</p><p>The Tempo will be joined by a team in Portland as the two WNBA expansion franchises beginning play in 2026. Toronto plans to play some of its home matchups in other Canadian cities during its inaugural campaign, including Montreal and Vancouver.</p>

Retired US tennis player Serena Williams speaks during the FII Priority Summit in Miami Beach, Florida, on February 20, 2025. FII Priority Summits are hosted by the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute.

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Kentucky senior guard Jaxson Robinson will undergo wrist surgery Wednesday and miss the rest of t...

<p>Kentucky senior guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/92656" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/92656">Jaxson Robinson</a> will undergo wrist surgery Wednesday and miss the rest of the 2024-25 campaign, head coach Mark Pope <a href="https://x.com/Cats_Coverage/status/1895949218440949782">announced</a> Saturday.</p><p>Robinson missed Saturday's 94-78 loss to top-ranked Auburn after suffering the injury during practice Feb. 7. He missed four consecutive games before returning Wednesday against Oklahoma but played just 12 minutes in the 83-82 win, his briefest appearance of the year.</p><p>"We kind of knew that he was going to need surgery, but he just wanted so badly to play," Pope told reporters following Saturday's loss. "He rehabbed it and had an injection to try and make it functional, and then he was doing OK, and then he went down in the first half at Oklahoma."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pope said the issue was a torn subsheath in his right wrist, causing a dislocation of his extensor carpi ulnaris tendon.</p><p>Robinson is the Wildcats' second-leading scorer behind Otega Oweh. He averaged a team-high 2.6 made threes in 24 games, shooting 37.6% on 6.9 attempts.</p>

KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE - JANUARY 28: Jaxson Robinson #2 of the Kentucky Wildcats dribbles the ball during the first half against the Tennessee Volunteers at Thompson-Boling Arena on January 28, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

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Kentucky senior Robinson to undergo season-ending wrist surgery

San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich confirmed Thursday he will not return to the bench this se...

<p>San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich confirmed Thursday he will not return to the bench this season as he continues to recover from a stroke suffered in November.</p><p>The 76-year-old said he hopes to eventually resume his coaching career.</p><p>"I've decided not to return to the sidelines this season," he said in a <a href="https://www.nba.com/spurs/news/statement-from-san-antonio-spurs-head-coach-gregg-popovich">statement</a> Thursday. "Mitch Johnson and his staff have done a wonderful job and the resolve and professionalism the players have shown, sticking together during a challenging season, has been outstanding.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I will continue to focus on my health with the hope that I can return to coaching in the future."</p><p>Popovich informed the team of his decision Thursday during an emotional, in-person meeting, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1895191071157522682">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. It was the Hall of Fame coach's first visit to the Spurs since suffering a mild stroke Nov. 2.</p><p>Popovich, who also serves as president of basketball operations, has manned the Spurs' bench for 29 consecutive seasons - the longest stretch of any active head coach. He signed a five-year extension in July 2023 that ties him to the franchise through 2027-28.</p><p>The Spurs said in November that Popovich is expected to make a full recovery. However, his NBA future was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3224252" href="https://thescore.com/news/3224252">reported</a> as uncertain Saturday as he continues to recuperate from the stroke.</p><p>The five-time NBA champion owns the record for most coaching wins with 1,412 to date, though that number includes 22 victories from Johnson's interim stint this season. Popovich had already amassed 1,388 career wins before stepping away Nov. 2, increasing the distance between him and Don Nelson (1,335), who he overtook in March 2022.</p>

San Antonio TX, - October 19, 2024: Head Coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the Spurs Open Scrimmage on October 19, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)

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The Minnesota Timberwolves are promoting rookie guard Jaylen Clark from a two-way contract to a s...

<p>The Minnesota Timberwolves are promoting rookie guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110282" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110282">Jaylen Clark</a> from a two-way contract to a standard, fully guaranteed two-year deal, Clark's agent told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1894820366666608968">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Minnesota will then sign free-agent guard Bones Hyland into its open two-way contract slot, <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1894820805801902347">Charania</a> adds, citing Hyland's agent.</p><p>Clark, the 53rd overall pick in 2023, played himself into the Timberwolves' rotation over the last month, averaging 6.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 13 consecutive games while playing 19.8 minutes. In that same stretch, he shot 44% from three on 2.1 attempts per game and impressed with his defense.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Clark scored a season-high 17 points in just under 19 minutes against the Houston Rockets on Feb. 6, shooting 4-of-6 from distance as part of a 13-point Minnesota win.</p><p>Before his games-played streak began Jan. 29, the UCLA product only made four previous appearances this season for a total of 10 minutes earlier in January. He did not play in 2023-24 while recovering from a torn Achilles he sustained in his final regular-season appearance in college.</p><p>Hyland, 24, opened the season with the Los Angeles Clippers, but the Atlanta Hawks waived him after he was traded along with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44950" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44950">Terance Mann</a> for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37602" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37602">Bogdan Bogdanovic</a> at the deadline. He played just 71 games over two-and-a-half years in L.A., averaging 7.8 points.</p><p>Hyland was drafted 26th overall by the Denver Nuggets in 2021 and scored 10.1 points per game as a rookie. In Minnesota, he reunites with president of basketball operations Tim Connelly, who was in charge of the Nuggets' front office when the team selected Hyland.</p>

ORLANDO, FL - JANUARY 9: Jaylen Clark #22 of the Minnesota Timberwolves smiles before the game against the Orlando Magic on January 9, 2025 at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Wolves converting Clark to standard deal, signing Hyland to 2-way contract

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum believes he's overlooked in conversations about the NBA's best p...

<p>Boston Celtics star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> believes he's overlooked in conversations about the NBA's best players. </p><p>"Honestly, no," Tatum told <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/02/25/jayson-tatum-boston-celtics-nba-stars/?pwapi_token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJyZWFzb24iOiJnaWZ0IiwibmJmIjoxNzQwNDU5NjAwLCJpc3MiOiJzdWJzY3JpcHRpb25zIiwiZXhwIjoxNzQxODM4Mzk5LCJpYXQiOjE3NDA0NTk2MDAsImp0aSI6IjYxZDhlMTdiLWQ0MzctNDdmOS04NGFiLWQ0MjMyMWQ3OGU1OSIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lndhc2hpbmd0b25wb3N0LmNvbS9zcG9ydHMvMjAyNS8wMi8yNS9qYXlzb24tdGF0dW0tYm9zdG9uLWNlbHRpY3MtbmJhLXN0YXJzLyJ9._q0AtPrGD20xb7jMHjuOImlQ_uMu8hqjv0d4qIPT_fM&amp;itid=gfta">The Washington Post's Michael Lee</a> when asked if he felt adequately appreciated.</p><p>"If you took the name and the face away from all my accomplishments and you're just like, 'This is what this Player A accomplished at 26,' people would talk about (me) a lot differently."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The forward has been a fixture in the MVP conversation but has yet to win the honor. He's had plenty of postseason success, too: Tatum made the playoffs in all seven of his previous NBA seasons, reaching the Eastern Conference finals in five of them (winning the series' inaugural MVP award in 2022) and competing in two Finals, capturing his first title in his second appearance last June.</p><p>Tatum believes his growing list of accolades - a championship, six All-Star selections, four All-NBA nominations, and back-to-back Olympic gold medals with the United States - are enough to make him the face of the league.</p><p>But the former third overall pick has no interest in making his own case.</p><p>"I don't really want to insert myself in things that can be debated," he said. "Did he win a championship? Yes. Did he win gold medals? Yes. Was he always a part of winning seasons? Was he first-team All-NBA? Those are things that you know are hard evidence. Yes or no.</p><p>"Face of the NBA? They can always debate. But it's like, I check off all the boxes."</p><p>Tatum is putting up 26.8 points per game this year, virtually identical to his scoring output in the 2023-24 regular season before Boston's 16-3 playoff run to the title. Though slightly below his career-high 30.1-point average in 2022-23, the Duke product is tallying personal bests in rebounding (8.8 per game) and assists (5.7). His effort is helping the Celtics stay competitive with the Cleveland Cavaliers for first place in the Eastern Conference.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 25: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 25, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. 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.

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Tatum: I don't get enough recognition for my career achievements

Chris Finch isn't a fan of the Oklahoma City Thunder's playstyle.  The Minnesota Timberwolves hea...

<p>Chris Finch isn't a fan of the Oklahoma City Thunder's playstyle.</p><p>The Minnesota Timberwolves head coach called out the Thunder following his team's 25-point comeback win Monday, taking issue with what he perceived as constant fouling and an ostensibly favorable whistle for All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>.</p><p>"It's so frustrating to play this team because they foul a ton. They really do," Finch told <a href="https://x.com/ohnohedidnt24/status/1894247794107461772">reporters</a> after the 131-128 overtime victory. "They foul all the time. And you can't really touch Shai. It's a very frustrating thing, and it takes a lot of mental toughness to try to play through it.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Eventually, we were able to get downhill and force the issue ourselves and were rewarded for it."</p><p>Minnesota was called for 11 fouls in Monday's first half compared to just six for Oklahoma City, leading to a 14-7 advantage in free-throw attempts and a 19-point lead for the Thunder. However, the momentum swung entirely in the Timberwolves' favor after the break; Finch's squad went 21-of-24 from the line in the second half and committed just nine personal fouls, while the Thunder were whistled for 19 and shot 9-of-12 on free throws.</p><p>That edge carried into overtime too. Minnesota was perfect in eight trips to the line in the final frame, during which Mark Daigneault's squad was just 3-of-3. Six of those Wolves free throws were in the final 62 seconds alone, with only the final two by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60881" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60881">Nickeil Alexander-Walker</a> due to an intentional foul.</p><p>The Timberwolves' 39 free throws Monday are the most they've attempted in any game this season, overtaking their 34 against the Dallas Mavericks on Jan. 22. It's also tied for their fifth most in any game since Finch took over as head coach in February 2021.</p><p>Monday's encounter between the two teams was their second in consecutive nights and their third meeting in February alone. They split their regular-season series 2-2. They'd face each other again in the first round of the playoffs if the Thunder maintain their grip on first place and the No. 7 Timberwolves emerge from the play-in tournament as the eighth seed.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - JANUARY 29: Chris Finch of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts to a foul call during the second half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on January 29, 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Wolves' Finch: Thunder foul constantly, but 'you can't really touch Shai'

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