School's out for the summer. With the NBA's postseason set to kick off with the play-in tournamen...

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School's out: Grading every NBA team's regular season 

The final day of the NBA regular season was littered with lopsided numbers and unexpected contrib...

<p>The final day of the NBA regular season was littered with lopsided numbers and unexpected contributions as playoff-bound teams and the league's basement dwellers alike sought to protect key contributors.</p><p>The opportunity gave some of the game's unheralded players a chance to shine. Here are some of the craziest and most unexpected statistics from Sunday's jam-packed slate.</p><p><strong>0:</strong> Portland Trail Blazers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24892" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24892">Jerami Grant</a> extended an impressive streak of absenteeism by not appearing in Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Grant has not appeared in a game after March 12 in three consecutive seasons. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>1:</strong> Second-generation hooper<em> </em><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121726" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121726">Bronny James</a> made his first career start in the Lakers' visit from the Blazers. It was a meaningless affair for the Lakers, who had already secured the No. 3 seed in the West. Regardless, James finished the game with four points on 2-of-10 shooting.</p><p><strong>3: </strong>A trio of Cleveland Cavaliers registered career highs in their double-overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121674" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121674">Jaylon Tyson</a> (31 points), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110234" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110234">Emoni Bates</a> (25), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/163107" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/163107">Nae'Qwan Tomlin</a> (24) will have to find a way to share ownership of the game ball.</p><p><strong>20:</strong> Cavaliers big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6364" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6364">Tristan Thompson</a> grabbed 20 rebounds versus the Pacers, the most he's recorded since Jan. 2020. Truly a banner day for the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.</p><p><strong>20+:</strong> San Antonio Spurs veteran guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> became the first player in league history to appear in every regular-season game in his 20th season or later. </p><p><strong>31:</strong> Memphis Grizzlies forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93864" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93864">Lamar Stevens</a> posted a career-best 31 points on 14-of-25 shooting in the beatdown of the Dallas Mavericks. Stevens scored a combined 43 points on 15 made field goals in 16 outings before Sunday's contest.</p><p><strong>41-41:</strong> The Orlando Magic suffered a 12-point defeat to their Southeast Division rivals, the Atlanta Hawks, to finish the campaign with a 41-41 record, becoming the first team since the NBA-ABA merger in 1976 to win its division without a winning record. </p><p><strong>43:</strong> Milwaukee Bucks guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11120">Pat Connaughton</a> poured in a career-high 43 points in his team's overtime victory over the Detroit Pistons. Connaughton joined <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4789" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4789">Khris Middleton</a>, and Kareem-Abdul Jabbar as the only Bucks to record a 40/10/5 game.</p><p><strong>-44:</strong> Mavericks guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102777" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102777">Jaden Hardy</a> recorded a minus-44 against the Grizzlies. Somehow, it was only the fourth-worst tally this season, but third-worst this week after New Orleans Pelicans duo Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (minus-58) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/163224" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/163224">Keion Brooks Jr.</a> (minus-56) put up crooked numbers versus the Miami Heat on Friday.</p><p><strong>82:</strong> Only 11 players appeared in all 82 games this season. A tip of the cap to J<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">alen Green</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6285" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6285">Harrison Barnes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93891" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93891">Jaden McDaniels</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102806" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102806">Julian Champagnie</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121678" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121678">Bub Carrington</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60881" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60881">Nickeil-Alexander Walker</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44947" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44947">Malik Beasley</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24735" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24735">Buddy Hield</a>, and the aforementioned Paul.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 13: Chris Paul #3 of the San Antonio Spurs stares down Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors after he was fouled in the second half at Frost Bank Center on April 13, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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10 craziest stats from final day of NBA season

The NBA playoff picture is complete following a frenetic final day of the regular season in which...

<p>The NBA playoff picture is complete following a frenetic final day of the regular season in which all 30 teams were in action.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DIZ1lmosyV1/?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/DIZ1lmosyV1/?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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<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewbox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div>
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<script async src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>The Eastern Conference standings were <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3264706" href="https://thescore.com/news/3264706">finalized</a> following Friday's contests, but matters out West were decidedly more chaotic and required Sunday's final day of the regular season to determine the seeding.</p><p>The play-in tournament begins Tuesday and features the teams seeded seventh to 10th in each conference.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Western Conference play-in tournament</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Game 1</td>
<td>April 15</td>
<td>Golden State Warriors</td>
<td>Memphis Grizzlies</td>
<td>10:00 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Game 2</td>
<td>April 16</td>
<td>Sacramento Kings</td>
<td>Dallas Mavericks</td>
<td>10:00 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Game 3</td>
<td>April 18</td>
<td>Loser of Game 1</td>
<td>Winner of Game 2</td>
<td> TBD</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>A loss in Game 82 saw the Warriors drop into the No. 8 slot, setting up a matchup against a Grizzlies squad that is just 4-5 since firing head coach Taylor Jenkins at the end of March. Golden State won the season series 3-1.</p><p>The Kings will be making their second straight appearance in the play-in tournament. Big man Jonas Valanciunas has been involved in every play-in tourney since its inception in 2020. The Mavs squeaked into the tournament but are 0-3 against Sacramento this season.</p><h3>Eastern Conference play-in tournament</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Game 1</td>
<td>April 15</td>
<td>Orlando Magic</td>
<td>Atlanta Hawks</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Game 2</td>
<td>April 16</td>
<td>Chicago Bulls</td>
<td>Miami Heat</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Game 3</td>
<td>April 18</td>
<td>Loser of Game 1</td>
<td>Winner of Game 2</td>
<td> TBD</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Magic nabbed the No. 7 seed after finishing the season on a 9-3<strong> </strong>run and will host a Hawks team that has now qualified for the play-in tournament in four straight seasons. The Magic won the season series 2-1.</p><p>The Bulls, who finished ninth in the conference for the third successive year, will welcome the Heat to the Windy City. Chicago won the season series 3-0.</p><h3>Western Conference</h3><ul>
<li>No. 1 Oklahoma City Thunder vs. No. 8 TBD</li>
<li>No. 2 Houston Rockets vs. No. 7 TBD</li>
<li>No. 3 Los Angeles Lakers vs. No. 6 Minnesota Timberwolves</li>
<li>No. 4 Denver Nuggets vs. No. 5 Los Angeles Clippers</li>
</ul><p>The Thunder were the league's best team in 2024-25, reaching the 67-win mark for the first time in franchise history. OKC, along with the Rockets, will await the completion of the play-in tournament to find out its first-round opponent.</p><p>The Nuggets went 7-8 in their final 15 games but were still able to secure home-court advantage against the Clippers thanks to a victory on the final day. Health will be a focal point for both teams. Oft-injured Kawhi Leonard played in 13 of his team's last 15 games, while Jamal Murray is dealing with a nagging hamstring issue. </p><p>The Lakers' small-ball lineup will be tested against the gargantuan Timberwolves. Will Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid be able to survive the Luka Doncic pick-and-roll that undid the Timberwolves in last season's Western Conference final?</p><h3>Eastern Conference</h3><ul>
<li>No. 1 Cleveland Cavaliers vs. No. 8 TBD</li>
<li>No. 2 Boston Celtics vs. No. 7 TBD</li>
<li>No. 3 New York Knicks vs. No. 6 Detroit Pistons</li>
<li>No. 4 Indiana Pacers vs. No. 5 Milwaukee Bucks</li>
</ul><p>The Cavaliers and Celtics will host the two survivors of the play-in tournament, but the real excitement might come from the two other first-round clashes.</p><p>The Knicks will hope to prove their playoff credentials against the upstart Pistons. New York went 1-3 against Detroit this season and finished 15-23 against teams with records of .500 or better. </p><p>Meanwhile, the Pacers will take their first step in attempting to replicate their run to the conference finals from a year ago against the Bucks, who were given a boost with Damian Lillard's return to basketball activity. Indiana lost the season series against Milwaukee 3-1.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 27: Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) sits down to guard Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) during the NBA game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers on February 27, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA.

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NBA playoff matchups set: Lakers host T-Wolves, Pacers-Bucks rematch

The Dallas Wings own next year's first overall pick after winning the WNBA Draft Lottery and are ...

<p>The Dallas Wings own next year's first overall pick after winning the WNBA Draft Lottery and are expected to select UConn star Paige Bueckers.</p><p>Here, theScore projects the first 12 picks for the marquee event in New York City on April 14.</p><p><em>All stats are from the 2024-25 collegiate and combined European seasons.</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: VALKYRIES" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-xkgFF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/xkgFF/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Paige Bueckers, PG/SG (UConn)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>38</td>
<td>53.4</td>
<td>41.9</td>
<td>88.9</td>
<td>4.4</td>
<td>4.6</td>
<td>19.9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It would be an enormous shock if the Wings passed on Bueckers at No. 1. The All-American guard finished just shy of becoming the first player in NCAA, WNBA, and NBA history to register 50/40/90 shooting splits and lead all players in assist-to-turnover ratio. She cemented her status as the top player in this draft during UConn's championship run, passing Maya Moore for the most NCAA Tournament points scored by a Husky. Bueckers is poised to make an immediate impact with her shotmaking, unselfish play, defense, and leadership. She's got all the traits teams look for in a franchise player.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: STORM (VIA LA)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-fcE3g" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/fcE3g/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Dominique Malonga, C (ASVEL - France)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>51.5</td>
<td>28.8</td>
<td>68.6</td>
<td>10.6</td>
<td>1.47</td>
<td>16.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>A 6-foot-6 rim protector who plays for one of Europe's elite sides, Malonga is among this draft's most intriguing prospects and arguably its most talented in terms of upside. The 19-year-old is active around the basket and has the tools to be a three-level scorer thanks to above-average athleticism for her size.<em> </em>While it's highly unlikely that Malonga can fill a lead role immediately, she does fit the profile of a future franchise cornerstone.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: MYSTICS (VIA CHI)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-BaJ0J" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/BaJ0J/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Sonia Citron, SG/SF (Notre Dame)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>32</td>
<td>48.4</td>
<td>37.2</td>
<td>89</td>
<td>5.4</td>
<td>2.7</td>
<td>14.1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The surprising decision by ex-Notre Dame backcourt partner Olivia Miles to forgo the draft and transfer to TCU makes Citron the second-highest-ranked guard on the board. Citron is a ready-made talent whose transition to the professional ranks is aided by her proficiency at both ends, especially as a perimeter defender, where her size gives her an advantage over smaller opposition. With three of the next six picks, it's almost certain Citron will not be on the board by the time the Golden State Valkyries pick fifth.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: MYSTICS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-u51mA" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/u51mA/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Kiki Iriafen, PF (USC)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td>49</td>
<td>28.6</td>
<td>81.1</td>
<td>8.4</td>
<td>1.8</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Iriafen would be another nice building block for the Mystics. The USC forward's 36-point performance in the Round of 32 against Mississippi State was further evidence that she can lead an offense. She's an elite offensive rebounder, has the speed to blow by opposing bigs off the bounce, and can go to work in the post. Iraifen may just be scratching the surface with her developing face-up game and passing ability, and she can contain guards on the perimeter with her athleticism and length.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: VALKYRIES (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Roq8u" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Roq8u/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Aneesah Morrow, PF (LSU)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>49</td>
<td>28.9</td>
<td>73.4</td>
<td>13.5</td>
<td>1.6</td>
<td>18.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Morrow's high motor on the glass made her one of the most prolific rebounders in women's college basketball history. The 6-foot-1 forward's 1714 career boards rank third on the NCAA's Division I all-time list. She's also one of two players in NCAA history with 100 career double-doubles. Morrow showed the potential to hit threes and create for others during LSU's run to the Elite Eight. There are concerns about Morrow's size at the four, but the same doubts existed last year for ex-Tigers teammate Angel Reese.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: VALKYRIES (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-oOyaJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/oOyaJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Georgia Amoore, PG (Kentucky)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>42.3</td>
<td>33.6</td>
<td>83.7</td>
<td>2.3</td>
<td>6.9</td>
<td>19.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Amoore enjoyed a stellar season with Kentucky after following former Virginia Tech coach Kenny Brooks to Lexington. Even though she's just 5-foot-6, Amoore proved her worth as a playmaker with 213 total assists, the sixth-highest mark in Division I, and a tidy 2.24 assist-to-turnover ratio. She also logged an SEC-high 36.7 minutes per game and flexes elite basketball IQ and court vision. The Australian's performances against talent-rich competition in the ACC and SEC speak volumes about her skill set and capabilities.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: SUN (VIA NY)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-6vk3R" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6vk3R/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Shyanne Sellers, G/F (Maryland)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>46.2</td>
<td>40.8</td>
<td>86.8</td>
<td>3.8</td>
<td>4.1</td>
<td>14.4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Sellers' strength is her versatility - the Maryland standout is capable of playing three positions at a high level. Sellers is a strong shooter who excelled beyond the arc this season - albeit from a small sample size - and can get a bucket any number of ways, something she displayed in a 28-point barrage in the come-from-behind second-round victory over Alabama in the NCAA Tournament. Sellers is a good building block for a rebuilding Sun side that's working with a relatively blank canvas.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: SUN (VIA IND)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yR4YV" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yR4YV/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Ajsa Sivka, F (Tarbes Gespe Bigorre - France)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td>38.7</td>
<td>35.6</td>
<td>66.6</td>
<td>3.1</td>
<td>2.3</td>
<td>8.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Teams seeking a perimeter threat with high upside needn't look any further than 19-year-old Slovenia native Ajsa Sivka. The 6-foot-4 wing thrives as a catch-and-shoot option and pulling up off the dribble. Sivka's also a gifted passer and surprisingly nimble for her size. Owning a pair of first-round selections this season gives the Sun wiggle room to swing big on a draft-and-stash candidate like Sivka, whose tremendous upside might be too much to pass up on at No. 8.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: SPARKS (VIA SEA)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yyTfy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yyTfy/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Hailey Van Lith, PG (TCU)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>38</td>
<td>45.2</td>
<td>33.8</td>
<td>82.7</td>
<td>4.6</td>
<td>5.4</td>
<td>17.9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Van Lith's strong fifth year, along with TCU's deep March run, has rebuilt her draft stock. The reigning Big 12 Player of the Year has settled in at the point, ranking 10th in the nation with 204 assists. She's flourished in the pick-and-roll and has the shooting range to burn defenders who go under screens. Van Lith's also been a winner at every stop of her collegiate career, helping three different schools reach the Elite Eight. That will serve her well at the next level.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: SKY (VIA CON)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-RFs49" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/RFs49/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Te-Hina Paopao, G (South Carolina)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>39</td>
<td>44.4</td>
<td>37</td>
<td>73.7</td>
<td>2.7</td>
<td>2.8</td>
<td>9.4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Paopao could be the Sky's long-term solution at the point. She's a career 40% 3-point shooter and would instantly provide some much-needed floor spacing alongside Reese and Kamilla Cardoso. Paopao's chemistry with Cardoso, her former college teammate, is an added bonus. There wouldn't be much pressure for Paopao to start right away, with Chicago bringing back veteran floor general Courtney Vandersloot and acquiring two-time All-Star Ariel Atkins. She can learn from both guards and fill in for either player.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: SKY (VIA CON) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KQycY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KQycY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Juste Jocyte, G/F (ASVEL - France)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td>41.8</td>
<td>34.8</td>
<td>78</td>
<td>3.2</td>
<td>2.71</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The U.S.-born Lithuanian 19-year-old is eligible for the draft because she grew up overseas. Otherwise, we'd have to wait until 2027 to see this much-hyped combo guard who boasts great size at her position. What Jocyte lacks in athleticism, she makes up for with deft movements off screens and creativity as a scorer. Despite her age, Jocyte has proven herself in Europe: she made her Lithuanian debut at 13 and became the youngest player in EuroLeague history at 14 years, 29 days.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 MOCK: MYSTICS (VIA CHI) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-UB73q" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/UB73q/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Saniya Rivers, G (NC State)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td>41.9</td>
<td>27.2</td>
<td>67.4</td>
<td>6.6</td>
<td>3.8</td>
<td>11.9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Rivers is arguably the best athlete available in this draft, and the Wings will hope that her standout showings on the defensive end might one day be matched by more polished and diverse play at the other end. That's not to say she can't get to the bucket and exploit one-on-one scenarios, but for Dallas - a team that was last in defensive rating in 2024 - Rivers' addition would cover an immediate area of need.</p>

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WNBA mock draft: Morrow rising after big NCAA tourney

LSU star Flau'Jae Johnson will remain in college instead of entering the 2025 WNBA Draft, sources...

<p>LSU star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104339" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104339">Flau'Jae Johnson</a> will remain in college instead of entering the 2025 WNBA Draft, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6253635/2025/04/03/flaujae-johnson-lsu-forgoes-wnba-draft/">The Athletic's Sabreena Merchant</a>.</p><p>Johnson could return to Baton Rouge for her senior season or enter the transfer portal before it closes on April 23 to seek a new school for her final year of eligibility.</p><p>Johnson has spent her entire collegiate career at LSU. The 21-year-old averaged 18.6 points to earn a third-team All-American selection this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 5-foot-10 guard is the second high-profile collegiate star to turn down the WNBA this week to stay in the collegiate ranks after Notre Dame's Olivia Miles <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3255414" href="https://thescore.com/news/3255414">reportedly opted</a> to enter the transfer portal instead of going pro.</p><p>Players had until Monday to announce their intentions to enter the draft unless their teams were still competing in the postseason.</p><p>LSU's NCAA Tournament run ended in the regional finals following a 72-65 loss to UCLA on Sunday. Johnson had 28 points on 10-of17 shooting in the defeat.</p>

SPOKANE, WASHINGTON - MARCH 30: Flau'Jae Johnson #4 of the LSU Lady Tigers reacts during the second half against the UCLA Bruins in the Elite Eight round of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Spokane Arena on March 30, 2025 in Spokane, Washington.

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Report: LSU's Flau'Jae Johnson won't enter 2025 WNBA Draft

UConn great Paige Bueckers and USC star JuJu Watkins are among five players selected as finalists...

<p>UConn great <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Paige Bueckers</a> and USC star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">JuJu Watkins</a> are among five players <a href="https://www.woodenaward.com/news/2024-25-womens-all-america-team-top-5/">selected</a> as finalists for the prestigious Wooden Award on Tuesday.</p><p>UCLA center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104621" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104621">Lauren Betts</a>, Notre Dame guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111974" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111974">Hannah Hidalgo</a>, and Texas forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111856" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111856">Madison Booker</a> are also finalists for the annual distinction celebrating the most outstanding player in women's basketball.</p><p>The Wooden All-American team features Kentucky's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/91399" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/91399">Georgia Amoore</a>, Florida State's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104904" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104904">Ta'Niya Latson</a>, LSU's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97633" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97633">Aneesah Morrow</a>, TCU's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/91688" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/91688">Hailey Van Lith</a>, and Hidalgo's Notre Dame teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97805" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97805">Olivia Miles</a> in addition to the award finalists.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bueckers won the Wooden Award as a freshman in 2021 and is considered the consensus No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft. Her Huskies are in their 16th Final Four in 17 years. Bueckers is chasing her first national title.</p><p>Betts and Booker are also still competing in the NCAA Tournament. Booker and the Longhorns face South Carolina in Friday's first semifinal matchup in Tampa, Florida, while Betts and the Bruins take on UConn in the nightcap.</p><p>Watkins has been viewed as a favorite for player of the year honors following a fantastic sophomore campaign with the Trojans. Her season ended in the second round of the NCAA Tournament due to a torn ACL.</p><p>The winner of the award named after legendary UCLA men's coach John Wooden will be announced later in April.</p>

HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT - DECEMBER 21: JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans is defended by Paige Bueckers #5 and Morgan Cheli #23 of the Connecticut Huskies during the second half of an NCAA women's basketball game at the XL Center on December 21, 2024 in Hartford, Connecticut.

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Bueckers, Watkins named among Wooden Award finalists

New Mexico found its successor for Xavier-bound Richard Pitino in the form of UC San Diego head c...

<p>New Mexico found its successor for Xavier-bound Richard Pitino in the form of UC San Diego head coach Eric Olen, Lobos vice president and athletics director Fernando Lovo announced Sunday.</p><p>Olen guided UC San Diego to the 2025 NCAA Tournament in its first year of eligibility and amassed a 51-17 record across the last two seasons with the program. The Tritons went 18-2 this year and won the Big West Conference tournament to secure an automatic bid.</p><p>"We're thrilled to welcome Eric Olen as the new head coach of Lobo men's basketball," Lovo <a href="https://golobos.com/news/2025/03/30/eric-olen-named-head-coach-of-lobo-mens-basketball/">said</a> in a statement. "Eric is a proven winner with an incredible track record.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Beyond the accolades and success on the court, he is a values-driven leader who puts student-athletes first. We're confident he'll bring tremendous energy and vision to our program."</p><p>Olen spent 12 seasons as head coach at UC San Diego after nine years as an assistant with the program.</p><p>The Tritons were narrowly defeated by Michigan 68-65 in their first-ever March Madness following a four-year transitionary period.</p><p>The Lobos reached the NCAA Tournament in each of the last two seasons. They most recently bowed out in the second round at the hands of Michigan State after topping Marquette in the first round.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 20: Head coach Eric Olen of the UC San Diego Tritons. reacts while playing the Michigan Wolverines during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Ball Arena on March 20, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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New Mexico hires UC San Diego's Eric Olen

UConn head coach Geno Auriemma has witnessed some superlative performances by Paige Bueckers in h...

<p>UConn head coach Geno Auriemma has witnessed some superlative performances by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Paige Bueckers</a> in her four seasons with the program. Perhaps none more so than Saturday's display in the No. 2 Huskies' 82-59 Sweet 16 victory over Oklahoma.</p><p>"Paige was spectacular," Auriemma told reporters, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44460248/paige-bueckers-career-best-40-puts-uconn-back-elite-eight">ESPN's Alexa Philippou</a>. "That was as good a game as I've seen her play the whole time she's been here, at the most important time."</p><p>Bueckers scored a career-high 40 points, a UConn tournament record, with 29 of them coming in the second half. The consensus No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft single-handedly outscored Oklahoma over the final 20 minutes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 23-year-old finished the contest with an efficient 16-of-27 mark from the field and received a standing ovation from fans at Spokane Arena when she left the game at the 3:08 mark in the fourth quarter.</p><p>That's not to say Bueckers was perfect. The 2021 College Player of the Year went scoreless in a second quarter that also featured some defensive lapses as Oklahoma grabbed a halftime lead. Bueckers went on a tear in the final frame, though, scoring 19 straight points on 8-of-9 shooting during a spell in which the Sooners managed only five points.</p><p>"When it starts happening in a game, in the back of your mind, you go, 'Here it goes,'" Auriemma said about Bueckers' effort. "And you know that unless the other team does something, it's just going to keep piling it on."</p><p>Bueckers now has 74 points in two games on the heels of a 34-point outburst in the second-round win over South Dakota State, her previous career high.</p><p>"Little by little it's dawned on her, I think, that there is no next year," Auriemma said. "There is no 'I can get this anytime I want.' You're going to have to get it now or it won't be available anymore."</p><p>The Huskies will face No. 1 USC in the Elite Eight on Monday. The Trojans are without star JuJu Watkins, who tore her ACL in the second-round victory over Mississippi State.</p><p>"Honestly, we just wanted to keep our season going as long as possible. We all love playing together, we love playing here," Bueckers said. "We just love this program and everything it means."</p>

SPOKANE, WASHINGTON - MARCH 29: Paige Bueckers #5 of the Connecticut Huskies meets with head coach Geno Auriemma at halftime against the Oklahoma Sooners in the Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Spokane Arena on March 29, 2025 in Spokane, Washington.

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UConn's Auriemma lauds 'spectacular' Bueckers

Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick held a meeting with LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reav...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick held a meeting with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> ahead of Saturday's clash with the Memphis Grizzlies, hoping to spark the team's intensity levels and offense.</p><p>It worked - the star trio combined for 85 points and 25 assists in the 134-127 victory.</p><p>"We challenged all three of them when we get to their three-man actions to play with a little more force and a little more thrust and a little more creativity," Redick <a href="https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/44462921/lebron-james-los-angeles-lakers-outlast-memphis-grizzlies">told</a> ESPN's Dave McMenamin about Saturday morning's meeting in Memphis.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Reaves led the way with 31 points on 5-of-8 shooting from deep, paired with eight assists and seven rebounds. Doncic poured in 29 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, while James finished with 25 points, eight assists, and six boards. Los Angeles finished the four-game road trip with a 2-2 split.</p><p>"We played as well as we've played so far, offensively," Redick added.</p><p>The Lakers shot 50.6% from the field and 44.2% from beyond the arc on 43 attempts.</p><p>"I think the meeting was just still trying to build that chemistry amongst the three of us to help the team be successful," Reaves said. "Tonight, it just showed that when we play the right way and trust one another, especially offensively, we can have open looks on almost every possession."</p><p>James looked particularly inspired in his fifth game back since missing seven contests due to a strained left groin.</p><p>"He was an incredible leader tonight," Redick said. "And it was early. It was throughout the game. When we got down, I challenged the group in a timeout and he was as vocal as he's been since he got back from injury."</p><p>Reaves was also impressed by James' timeout address. "It was the first time I've heard him yell in a while," he said. "It was refreshing, to be honest. I loved it."</p><p>The Lakers are 45-29 with eight contests left on the schedule, all against Western Conference opposition. They now hold a half-game lead over fifth-placed Memphis and the tiebreaker after winning the season series.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Head coach JJ Redick of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the LA Clippers at Crypto.com Arena on March 02, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Redick 'challenged' star trio before win over Grizzlies

The Los Angeles Sparks will retire WNBA icon Candace Parker's No. 3 jersey June 29 when the three...

<p>The Los Angeles Sparks will retire WNBA icon Candace Parker's No. 3 jersey June 29 when the three-time champions host the Chicago Sky, the team announced.</p><p>Parker becomes the third Sparks player to have her jersey retired, joining eight-time All-Star Lisa Leslie (No. 9) and former player and general manager Penny Toler (No. 11).</p><p>"To see my jersey hanging in the rafters amongst other legends is truly an honor. This moment is not just about me - it’s about my family, my teammates, and the incredible support from the L.A. Sparks organization and fans," Parker <a href="https://sparks.wnba.com/news/sparks-to-retire-legend-candace-parkers-no-3-jersey-on-june-29">told</a> the team's official website.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Parker spent 13 seasons in Los Angeles, during which time she won two MVP awards and the 2016 title.</p><p>"Candace Parker has left an indelible mark on the Los Angeles Sparks, not only as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court, but as a true ambassador of our franchise and women’s basketball as a whole," Sparks co-owner Magic Johnson said.</p><p>She left in 2021 to join her hometown Sky as a free agent and was an integral part of the franchise's march to the title that same year. She also won a championship with the Las Vegas Aces in 2023 before retiring in 2024.</p>

PALMETTO, FL - SEPTEMBER 10: Candace Parker #3 of the Los Angeles Sparks looks on during the game against the Washington Mystics on September 10, 2020 at Feld Entertainment Center in Palmetto, Florida. 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 2020 NBAE

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Sparks will retire Parker's No. 3 on June 29

Forward Draymond Green accepted responsibility for the Golden State Warriors' poor defense in Sat...

<p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> accepted responsibility for the Golden State Warriors' poor defense in Saturday's 125-114 road loss to the Atlanta Hawks.</p><p>The Warriors conceded 40 points in the first quarter, and Green acknowledged his part in his team's lack of defensive effort.</p><p>"We've got to be better. That starts with me; we were terrible defensively," Green told reporters, according to <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1903627213695500434">The Athletic's Anthony Slater</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We just didn't come out like we were ready to play," Green added. "We got diced up in the first quarter, and from that point on, we were fighting an uphill battle."</p><p>Green's comments come after the 13-year NBA veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245874" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245874">claimed</a> he had a "1 million percent" case for winning Defensive Player of the Year following a victory over the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this week.</p><p>The 35-year-old won the league's top individual prize for defenders in 2017 and is a four-time NBA All-Defensive first-team member.</p><p>Green finished Saturday's loss with five points on 2-of-7 shooting paired with six rebounds, six assists, three steals, and a block. Jimmy Butler led the Warriors with 25 points, while Moses Moody chipped in 20.</p><p>"Bad loss. It's a terrible loss," Green said. "Eleven games left with everything to play for, you shouldn't have a loss like this."</p><p>The Warriors were without Steph Curry against the Hawks after the 11-time All-Star injured his pelvis during Thursday's win over the Toronto Raptors.</p><p>Saturday's loss was just Golden State's fourth in its last 20 games since acquiring Butler from the Miami Heat in a blockbuster trade that sent Andrew Wiggins the other way. The Warriors take on the Heat in Miami on Tuesday, marking Butler's first return to face his former team since the trade.</p><p>The 41-30 Warriors are a half-game up on the Clippers for the Western Conference's sixth and final automatic playoff berth.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MARCH 22: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors drives against Onyeka Okongwu #17 of the Atlanta Hawks during the third quarter at State Farm Arena on March 22, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Draymond shoulders blame for poor defensive showing vs. Hawks

Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star Donovan Mitchell shouldered the blame for Friday's loss to the Phoen...

<p>Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star<a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998"> Donovan Mitchell</a> shouldered the blame for Friday's loss to the Phoenix Suns following an uncharacteristic performance.</p><p>"Put this on me," Mitchell said, according to CBS Sports' <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/donovan-mitchell-blames-himself-for-cavaliers-fourth-straight-loss-im-not-being-who-i-need-to-be/">James Herbert</a>. "When your leader ain't doing shit, this is what happens. Yeah, we have to guard better, rebound, shit like that. But if I'm not being who I need to be, then we're not going to get to where we want to get to."</p><p>Mitchell recorded a season-low seven points on 2-of-18 shooting punctuated by an 0-of-8 display from beyond the arc. The Eastern Conference-leading Cavs have hit a rough patch lately on the heels of a franchise-best 16-game winning streak and have dropped four consecutive contests, their worst stretch of the campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's been like this for the past four games, and we've lost four straight," Mitchell added. </p><p>Kevin Durant led all scorers with 42 points for the 34-37 Suns, who have now won three straight to vault the Dallas Mavericks for the fourth and final play-in spot.</p><p>"I have to be better, simple as that. You can point to all these different things, yeah: KD having 30-whatever, we gave him some - f--- all that, it's on me," Mitchell said.</p><p>Mitchell missed the final matchup of Cleveland's 16-game run due to groin soreness before returning for the current skid. In the four contests since his one-game absence, the 28-year-old has shot 29.5% from the field and 6-of-37 from deep, well below his season averages.</p><p>"I have to be better for the group. I've been good for the group all year, and this is on me," Mitchell said.</p><p>"I'm a sicko for this shit, man," Mitchell added. "This tests what you really are mentally, just continuing to push. And I have no doubt, I haven't lost confidence in my abilities. It's going to come, it's going to happen. But until I continue to be who I've been, this is what happens."</p><p>Evan Mobley chipped in with 16 points and 12 rebounds for the Cavs, and according to the fourth-year defensive whiz, Mitchell isn't the only one who deserves blame for their struggles.</p><p>"I feel like we all started slow. We weren't getting rebounds, we weren't necessarily getting stops. Some shots weren't falling for (Mitchell) and some other people as well, but we can't just put everything on him," Mobley said.</p><p>Mitchell and Co. will look to bounce back when they visit the lowly Utah Jazz on Sunday. The six-time All-Star said he's happy to take the criticism for the Cavs if the losing streak continues.</p><p>"There's really nowhere else to look, to be honest with you," Mitchell said. "So I'll be better. I'll figure it the f--- out for everybody."</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 06: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the Smoothie King Center on November 06, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Mitchell takes blame for Cavs' 4th straight loss: 'Put this on me'

Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch inserted forward Joe Ingles into the starting lineu...

<p>Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch inserted forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/38400" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/38400">Joe Ingles</a> into the starting lineup Friday for a special reason.</p><p>Ingles' son Jacob, who has autism, was in attendance at the Target Center for the T-Wolves' 134-93 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. The contest was just the second time Jacob watched an entire game in person and the first time seeing his father play.</p><p>"It's emotional," Finch told reporters after the game, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44352145/wolves-ingles-makes-first-start-22-son-jacob-attendance">ESPN</a>. "Sometimes, you have to do the human thing. And you always talk about all these minutes matter. Those minutes matter for another reason."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"And I figured if we're going to do it, let's do it in style," Finch added.</p><p>The autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that can alter how people learn, interact, communicate, and behave.</p><p>"As a dad, just really proud that he's worked so hard every day at school and therapy and speech and everything that he has to do to fit in - in a not-very-friendly world a lot of the time," Ingles said <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ihki6nryFnQ">postgame</a>.</p><p>Ingles finished scoreless in six minutes of play, but Finch said the decision to include the Australian in the starting five helped inspire the team to a lopsided win.</p><p>"Guys were behind it, and I think it gave us just the right boost that we needed and a change of energy," Finch said. "It's not often you get to do those types of things, but we're really happy that we could."</p><p>Ingles' wife and their two other children were also in attendance as the veteran made his first start since Jan. 30, 2022. Ingles spoke about the challenges of autism and the importance of raising awareness.</p><p>"The reality of it is I just don't think people understand. It gets kind of confused because of the money and the lifestyle," Ingles said. "It is a little less stressed because I can afford to pay for Jacob to get what he needs.</p><p>"But it doesn't take away the meltdowns in the supermarket. There's been so many times ... that he's laying on the floor in public. You can feel people staring at you. You know they're judging you. You know they're making comments about it. But they have no idea what he's going through that day or the night before or the situation."</p><p>Ingles added, "We'll keep doing what we do. We'll keep pushing the awareness, and we'll do whatever we can to help other families."</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MARCH 21: Joe Ingles #7 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on March 21, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Ingles' son attends father's 1st start since 2022 as T-Wolves win

New York Knicks veteran forward Mikal Bridges spoke with head coach Tom Thibodeau about giving th...

<p>New York Knicks veteran forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a> spoke with head coach Tom Thibodeau about giving the bench more minutes in hopes of lessening the burden on the starting five.</p><p>"Sometimes it's not fun on the body," Bridges told the <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/03/12/sports/why-mikal-bridges-asked-tom-thibodeau-to-play-knicks-starters-less/">New York Post's Stefan Bondy</a>. "You'll want that as a coach but (I) also talked to him a little bit knowing that we've got a good enough team where our bench guys can come in, and we don't need to play 48 (minutes), 47."</p><p>Thibodeau is notorious for leaning heavily on his starters during spells in charge of the Chicago Bulls, Minnesota Timberwolves, and now, the Knicks.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Three Knicks players are in the top 10 for minutes played this season, including Bridges, who leads the NBA with 2,420 minutes played. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30695" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30695">Josh Hart</a> is second (2,307), and injured All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> is 10th (2,162).</p><p>Thibodeau's most used starting five - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a>, Hart, Brunson, and Bridges - also leads the league with 885 minutes played together.</p><p>Bridges asserted that New York's bench unit is capable of playing more.</p><p>"We've got a lot of good guys on this team that can take away minutes, which helps the defense, helps the offense, helps tired bodies being out there and giving up all these points. It helps just keeping fresh bodies out there," Bridges said.</p><p>Bridges also suspected Thibodeau might encounter obstacles trying to employ a broader distribution of minutes.</p><p>"I think he’s not arguing about it. Sometimes I think he just gets in his ways and he gets locked in. He just wants to keep the guy out there," Bridges continued. "Sometimes you’ve got to tell him, like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45437" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45437">Landry (Shamet)</a>, for example or somebody, keep him out there, they’re playing well."</p><p>Thibodeau's bench includes veteran Shamet, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31408" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31408">Cameron Payne</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93881" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93881">Precious Achiuwa</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62053" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62053">Mitchell Robinson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96035" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96035">Miles McBride</a>, who has started the past two games since Brunson suffered a sprained ankle versus the Los Angeles Lakers last week.</p><p>Next up for the Knicks is the fourth stop of a five-game road trip Wednesday in Portland.</p><p> </p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 6: Head Coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks talks to his players during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 6, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena 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

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Knicks' Bridges asks Thibs to help starters by leaning more on bench

The Cleveland Cavaliers battled back from an 18-point third-quarter deficit to defeat the Brookly...

<p>The Cleveland Cavaliers battled back from an 18-point third-quarter deficit to defeat the Brooklyn Nets 109-104 and secure their second 15-game winning streak of the season.</p><p>All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> led the shorthanded Cavs with 30 points on 11-of-24 shooting, 18 of which came in the final frame. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a> added 23 points and 13 rebounds, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> contributed 21 points, nine rebounds, and six assists.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53038" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53038">Ty Jerome</a> all missed out for the hosts due to injuries.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96032" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96032">Cam Thomas</a> led the visitors with 27 points on 10-of-22 shooting. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37658" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37658">Cameron Johnson</a> chipped in with 17 points for the 22-43 Nets.</p><p>Veteran guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37752" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37752">D’Angelo Russell</a> sat out the second game of the back-to-back set due to right ankle injury management.</p><p>The Cavs also started the season on a 15-0 winning run, and they also won 12 straight in December and January. Their worst losing streak of the campaign was a three-game blip in late January.</p><p>They are just the sixth team in NBA history to record multiple win streaks of 15 games or better in a season.</p><p>Cleveland has now clinched the Central Division title for the eighth time in the franchise's 55-year history. Six of those came during LeBron James’ two spells with the team.</p><p>Kenny Atkinson's side now owns a 54-10 record and sits eight games up on the Boston Celtics for the top spot in the Eastern Conference.</p><p>The Cavs will have a chance to achieve a franchise-record 16 victories in a row when they face the Memphis Grizzlies on the road Friday.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 11: Darius Garland #10 of the Cleveland Cavaliers handles the ball during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on March 11, 2025 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. 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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Garland, Cavs rally vs. Nets for 2nd 15-game winning streak this season

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James left Saturday's 111-101 defeat to the Boston Celtics with a ...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> left Saturday's 111-101 defeat to the Boston Celtics with a groin strain and didn't return.</p><p>James, 40, was forced to exit with 6:44 remaining in the fourth quarter after the 21-time All-Star appeared to be in noticeable pain, prompting a timeout.</p><p>He addressed the injury postgame, saying there "wasn't much concern," according to <a href="https://x.com/jovanbuha/status/1898596787708936382">The Athletic's Jovan Buha</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Day to day, look at it each day to see if it gets better and take the proper measurements and see what we can do," he added.</p><p>James said the injury reminded him of a similar ailment he suffered on Christmas Day in 2018, his first season with the Lakers.</p><p>"Been there before, and I know what type of injury we're dealing with," he said.</p><p>James missed 17 games after that groin injury but said his ailment this time around is "not as bad."</p><p>The loss in Boston snapped the Lakers' eight-game winning streak and could come at a greater cost if James misses time.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> led all scorers with 40 points on 12-of-28 shooting paired with 12 rebounds and eight assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> chipped in with 31 points for the hosts.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> led the Lakers with 34 points, the highest-scoring display of his 12 games with the team following the blockbuster trade from the Dallas Mavericks. James finished with 22 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists in 35 minutes, narrowly missing out on an 11th triple-double this season.</p><p>L.A. resumes its four-game road trip against the Brooklyn Nets on Monday before facing the Milwaukee Bucks and Denver Nuggets on Thursday and Friday, respectively.</p>

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 8: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on March 8, 2025 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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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LeBron exits loss to Celtics with groin strain

With the NCAA conference tournaments around the corner, it's time for a glance at the 2025 NBA Dr...

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NBA mock draft: Can anyone unseat Flagg for No. 1?

Nuggets head coach Mike Malone was full of praise for Nikola Jokic after the three-time MVP recor...

<p>Nuggets head coach Mike Malone was full of praise for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> after the three-time MVP recorded a career-high 19 assists in Denver's 125-116 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Monday.</p><p>"The guy is just an amazing, complete basketball player," Malone told reporters, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44004654/nikola-jokic-career-high-19-assists-denver-nuggets-win">ESPN</a>. "And I think the most remarkable thing is not just 19 assists, but the satisfaction and joy that Nikola gets from making his teammates better."</p><p>Malone added: "And he'd be happy getting 19 assists ... and us winning [more] than any other superstar that I've ever come across."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The performance marked Jokic's 28th game with 15-plus assists, an NBA record for a non-guard, according to ESPN research. His 19 dimes are also tied for the second most by a center in league history behind Wilt Chamberlain, who recorded 21 in a win over the Detroit Pistons in 1968.</p><p>"He's a humble person and understands that this whole thing is always much bigger than the individual," Malone said. "It's the collective. But 19? ... What is that? ... He's just an incredible player. And what a luxury to have when you can just play through him down the stretch of a close game and you know something good is going to happen each and every time."</p><p>Jokic also added 18 points and nine rebounds in the victory, falling just short of a league-leading 27th triple-double for the season.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> led all Nuggets with 25 points in a balanced attack where six players scored 14 or more. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37711" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37711">Myles Turner</a> piloted the Pacers with 23 points on 7-of-18 shooting, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> chipped in with 19 and 15 assists.</p><p>In addition to Jokic's offensive genius, Haliburton commended the big man for his play on the other end of the court.</p><p>"Obviously, Nikola is not a guy in the league that you would say is an elite defender, but he's one of the highest IQ guys in the league," Haliburton said.</p><p>"And I thought he did a great job in the pick-and-roll making me have to make different reads."</p><p>The Nuggets have won nine of their last 10 games. They moved into the second spot in the West with the win in Indiana, 8.5 games back of the Oklahoma City Thunder.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 24: Nikola Jokić #15 of the Denver Nuggets passes the ball while being guarded by Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers in the first quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 24, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Nuggets' Malone touts 'humble' Jokic after career night

The agent for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams disputes his client's failed physical with t...

<p>The agent for Charlotte Hornets center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102765" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102765">Mark Williams</a> disputes his client's failed physical with the Los Angeles Lakers, claiming the decision isn't consistent with the opinions of several medical professionals.</p><p>"The overwhelming sentiment, after conferring with multiple, nationally recognized doctors, is that the Los Angeles Lakers should not have failed Mark Williams on his physical," Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management said in the statement obtained by <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43943420/agent-refutes-lakers-decision-fail-mark-williams-physical">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>Schwartz added: "Mark was ready and able to play for them and should have been given that opportunity."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Lakers haven't responded to Schwartz's claims, according to ESPN.</p><p>Williams was traded to the Lakers on Feb. 8 for rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121679" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121679">Dalton Knecht</a>, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69535" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69535">Cam Reddish</a>, a 2030 pick swap, and a 2031 unprotected first-round selection. The trade's approval was pending physical examinations for the players involved, and according to the Lakers, Williams' tests <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3213882" href="https://thescore.com/news/3213882">revealed</a> multiple issues.</p><p>Williams had only appeared in 19 games this season prior to the trade due to a lingering back issue. However, the Lakers didn't identify that specific injury as a concern, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1888415642371686502">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The 23-year-old Duke product returned from a four-game absence to face the Lakers on Wednesday. He recorded 10 points, nine rebounds, and two assists in 29 minutes in the Hornets' 100-97 victory. It was his first appearance for the team since the annulled trade.</p><p>Williams claims the failed physical wasn't the only reason the Lakers nixed the deal.</p><p>"I don't think it was solely because of my physical," he said. "I felt like I could have contributed to them. But, obviously, they had second thoughts."</p><p>LeBron James, who dunked on Williams during Wednesday's contest, spoke about facing a player who was set to join the Lakers' ranks.</p><p>"He was never a teammate," James said. "He never stepped into the locker room. He never came [in]. We never seen him. We know the trade went down, but we never seen him. So when it got rescinded, it was just back to what it was before. So, it was no different."</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 19, 2025: Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) reacts after Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) scores to give the Hornets the lead late in the game at Crypto.com Arena on February 19, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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The NBA has an All-Star Game problem.  Players don't care, and at this point, neither do the fans...

<p>The NBA has an All-Star Game problem.</p><p>Players don't care, and at this point, neither do the fans. The event has become a microcosm of a regular-season marred by increasing disinterest and malaise.</p><p>The All-Star Game can only go as far as the players' desire for competitiveness takes it. And it doesn't appear like this current generation of players feel particularly bothered to compete. (Perhaps we can exclude Victor Wembanyama, who <a href="https://x.com/BenGolliver/status/1891334154371186716">appeared upset</a> when Jayson Tatum was allowed to freely drive to the hoop for the game-winning bucket.)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It's time for a solution, and if the NHL's current 4 Nations Face-Off hockey tournament involving the United States, Canada, Sweden, and Finland is any indication, a considerable overhaul might be the only fix.</p><h3>4 Nations has been a smashing success</h3><p>The NHL opted to scrap its 2025 All-Star Game and instead introduce the 4 Nations as a precursor to the league's return to Olympic competition in 2026.</p><p>The United States' 3-1 victory over Canada on Saturday in the fourth game of the round-robin phase had it all: anthem controversy, three fights in the opening nine seconds, and no love lost in a hyper-competitive affair that was enjoyed by hockey fans and casual viewers alike.</p><p>If the NBA were to adopt a similar idea based on its primary demographics, now is the time. Each of the last six MVP awards have gone to players born outside the U.S. (Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid, and Nikola Jokic) and Canada's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the current favorite to win this year's honor. Of the 26 players voted as All-Stars or selected as injury replacements for this year's game, eight players were either born outside the U.S. or represent another country in international competition.</p><p>The NBA has never been more international than it currently is, and if the league looks to replace the stagnant All-Star Weekend with a competition with a global flare, it could do worse than copy its NHL counterpart.</p><p>With this in mind, here's a hypothetical look at an international competition that would replace All-Star Weekend.</p><h3>Format</h3><p>Four 12-player teams would compete in a round-robin mini-tournament. The top two teams would advance to the finals after facing the three opponents once.</p><p>Games would consist of two 15-minute halves to allow the competition to be condensed into a two-day window. Each team would play twice on the first day and then complete round-robin play on the following day prior to the finals and third-place match.</p><p>To the victors go bragging rights and prize money provided by sponsors whose branding would be included across the competition.</p><p>As Antetokounmpo <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3219734" href="https://thescore.com/news/3219734">said</a> during All-Star Weekend, a United States versus International format would provide "extra juice to compete."</p><h3>Teams</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FRANCE OLYMPICS (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-fm4VM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/fm4VM/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>For obvious reasons, this collection of NBA veterans would be the favorite to win the tournament. This team doesn't have an apparent weakness, and considering the players who didn't make the cut, it would be a huge upset if the Americans didn't win. While the format isn't "Team USA versus the world," it could certainly be interpreted as such.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>POS.</th>
<th>TEAM</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Steph Curry</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Harden</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Clippers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Damian Lillard</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Bucks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donovan Mitchell</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Suns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Suns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jayson Tatum</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kawhi Leonard</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Clippers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Karl-Anthony Towns</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Davis</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Mavericks</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="CANADA OLYMPICS (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jAlLJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jAlLJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Sitting fifth in the FIBA rankings, Canada has emerged as a basketball powerhouse over the last decade and would be well-represented. Gilgeous-Alexander, NBA champion Jamal Murray, and RJ Barrett would form an accomplished backcourt, while towering Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey would be relied upon in the middle.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>POS.</th>
<th>TEAM</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nickeil Alexander-Walker</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jamal Murray</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RJ Barrett</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Raptors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Nembhard</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dillon Brooks</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Rockets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Wiggins</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Heat</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luguentz Dort</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bennedict Mathurin</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Clarke</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dwight Powell</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Mavericks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Zach Edey</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="CANADA OLYMPICS (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-R1PFv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/R1PFv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>There's no room for the likes of Santi Aldama, Jakob Poeltl, or OG Anunoby on this star-studded lineup made up of players from Europe. This is one of the tournament's most balanced teams and includes a frontcourt littered with All-Stars and franchise cornerstones. Nobody would want to play this squad.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>POS.</th>
<th>TEAM</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dennis Schroder (GER)</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Pistons</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic (SLO)</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bogdan Bogdanovic (SRB)</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Clippers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Franz Wagner (GER)</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Magic</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alperun Sengun (TUR)</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Rockets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lauri Markkanen (FIN)</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Jazz</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Giannis Antetokounmpo (GRE)</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Bucks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic (SRB)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rudy Gobert (FRA)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kristaps Porzingis (LAT)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama (FRA)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Spurs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Domantas Sabonis (LIT)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Kings</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="CANADA OLYMPICS (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-j8AOz" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/j8AOz/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>A trio of Australian guards combine with Pascal Siakam and Joel Embiid to highlight a team comprised of players from emerging basketball nations. For the sake of an earnest competition, Buddy Hield, Jordan Clarkson, and Karl-Anthony Towns - who all play internationally for other countries despite being born in the U.S. - are not included in Team World.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>POS.</th>
<th>TEAM</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Kyrie Irving (AUS)</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Mavericks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dyson Daniels (AUS)</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Hawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Josh Giddey (AUS)</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Bulls</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cam Thomas (JPN)</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>Nets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rui Hachimura (JPN)</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pascal Siakam (CAM)</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jonathan Kuminga (DRC)</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Al Horford (DR)</td>
<td>F</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bol Bol (SS)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Suns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steven Adams (NZ)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Rockets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Deandre Ayton (BAH)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Trail Blazers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joel Embiid (CAM)</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>76ers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

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