Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has achieved yet another milestone as part of a record-...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> has achieved yet another milestone as part of a record-shattering career.</p><p>With 10 minutes played during Thursday's contest against the Sacramento Kings, James passed fellow Lakers icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for most regular-season minutes in NBA history with 57,447.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Congrats to <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KingJames</a> of the <a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Lakers</a> for becoming the NBA's all-time leader in TOTAL MINUTES PLAYED in the regular season! <a href="https://t.co/XsiKE57OjB">pic.twitter.com/XsiKE57OjB</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1869951846069993808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>It took the four-time MVP 1,517 games played to reach this mark. That amounts to 3,446,940 seconds, 957.5 hours, 39.9 days, and 5.7 weeks of NBA regular-season basketball played, <a href="https://x.com/Lakers/status/1869955794709721501">according</a> to the Lakers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>James, 39, became the league's all-time leading scorer when he surpassed Abdul-Jabbar on February 8, 2023. </p><p>The record 20-time All-Star also became the first player in NBA history to reach 30,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 10,000 assists.</p><p>James finished the 113-100 victory over the Kings with 19 points on 8-of-21 shooting to pair with six rebounds and seven assists.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 19: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers points back to the Sacramento Kings' bench in the first half at Golden 1 Center on December 19, 2024 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 License Agreement.

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LeBron becomes NBA's all-time leader in minutes played

The NBA season is more than one-quarter of the way done, and it's becoming clearer which teams ar...

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The Golden State Valkyries' roster is finally starting to take shape.  The WNBA's 13th franchise ...

<p>The Golden State Valkyries' roster is finally starting to take shape.</p><p>The WNBA's 13th franchise began the process of constructing a team Friday with an expansion draft that featured an opportunity to select one player from each of the league's other dozen organizations.</p><p>Here's a look at what went down with an explanation for the criteria and rules listed below:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>PREVIOUS TEAM</th>
<th>POSITION</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Iliana Rupert</td>
<td>Atlanta Dream</td>
<td>C</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maria Conde</td>
<td>Chicago Sky</td>
<td>F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Veronica Burton</td>
<td>Connecticut Sun</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carla Leite</td>
<td>Dallas Wings</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Temi Fagbenle</td>
<td>Indiana Fever</td>
<td>C</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kate Martin</td>
<td>Las Vegas Aces</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephanie Talbot</td>
<td>Los Angeles Sparks</td>
<td>F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cecilia Zandalasini</td>
<td>Minnesota Lynx</td>
<td>F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kayla Thornton</td>
<td>New York Liberty</td>
<td>F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Monique Billings</td>
<td>Phoenix Mercury</td>
<td>F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julie Vanloo</td>
<td>Washington Mystics</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Valkyries, which were not required to select a player from every team, chose not to make a selection from the Seattle Storm.</p><p>Each team privately submitted a list of six players - including pending free agents for whom they own the contract rights - the Valkyries couldn't select. Golden State could choose only one player set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason and couldn't pick an unrestricted free agent who's been tagged with the core player designation for two or more seasons.</p><p>Valkyries general manager Ohemaa Nyanin revealed following the draft that she preferred to go "all-in" with the team's selections rather than ship them off immediately in possible trades she had been looking into, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/kendra__andrews/status/1865189092734177515">ESPN's Kendra Andrews</a>.</p><p>Of the 11 players selected, three did not feature in the WNBA last season: Rupert, Conde, and Leite. Rupert, a champion with the Aces in 2022, elected to sit out the 2024 campaign to focus on the Olympics in her native France. Her compatriot Leite was the ninth overall pick in April's WNBA draft. Conde was selected 27th overall by Chicago in the 2019 draft, but the Spanish guard has yet to play in the league.</p><p>The 11 picks were revealed in alphabetical order of their previous team. They were announced at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art with the help of a few popular local faces: five-time LPGA TOUR winner Michelle Wie West announced the first four picks, Bay Area hip-hop icon E-40 revealed the second quartet, and former Golden State Warriors guard Baron Davis announced the final three, as well as the Storm non-selection.</p><p>Golden State gets its inaugural regular-season campaign underway when it hosts the Los Angeles Sparks at the Chase Center in San Francisco on May 16.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 04: Kate Martin #20 of the Las Vegas Aces reacts to a play against the Washington Mystics in the first quarter in their game at Michelob ULTRA Arena on July 04, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Aces defeated the Mystics 98-77.

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Phoenix Suns veteran Kevin Durant will miss one-to-two weeks after suffering a left ankle sprain ...

<p>Phoenix Suns veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> will miss one-to-two weeks after suffering a left ankle sprain during Tuesday's NBA Cup meeting with the San Antonio Spurs, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/42777498/sources-kevin-durant-least-1-week-ankle-sprain">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Durant picked up the injury with 4:30 left in the second quarter when he landed on the foot of Spurs forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102806" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102806">Julian Champagnie</a>. The 14-time All-Star exited shortly thereafter and was eventually ruled out for the remainder of the game.</p><p>"He stepped on somebody's foot in transition, and at halftime, it stiffened up," Suns coach Mike Budenholzer told <a href="https://nba.com/news/kevin-durant-left-ankle-sprain-spurs">NBA.com</a> following the 104-93 victory over the Spurs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Durant has missed seven of Phoenix's 20 games this season after a calf injury ruled him out for a stretch in mid-November. The Suns are 11-2 with him in the lineup and 1-6 in his absence.</p><p>The 36-year-old is averaging 25.8 points and 6.7 rebounds this season, his 16th campaign in the NBA.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 3: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns defends during the game against the San Antonio Spurs during a Emirates NBA Cup game on December 3, 2024 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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LA Galaxy talisman Riqui Puig will miss the 2024 MLS Cup versus the New York Red Bulls after suff...

<p>LA Galaxy talisman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/101240" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/101240">Riqui Puig</a> will miss the 2024 MLS Cup versus the New York Red Bulls after suffering a torn ACL in his left knee in the Western Conference Final, the team announced.</p><p>Puig sustained the injury in the second half of the Galaxy's victory over the Seattle Sounders but stayed on the pitch for more than 30 minutes and set up Dejan Joveljic's 85th-minute winner.</p><p>The Spaniard's absence is a massive blow for the Galaxy, who are seeking a record-extending sixth MLS title.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 25-year-old has been the club's key creative fulcrum since joining from La Liga giants Barcelona in August 2022. He recorded 17 goals and 20 assists in 36 matches in all competitions this season and added four goals and four assists in four outings in the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs.</p><p>The Galaxy host the Red Bulls on Dec. 7 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.</p>

COMMERCE CITY, CO - NOVEMBER 01: Riqui Puig #10 of Los Angeles Galaxy walks onto the field as flames and sparks are lit before a first round match against the Colorado Rapids during the MLS Cup playoffs at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on November 1, 2024 in Commerce City, Colorado.

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Galaxy star Puig will miss MLS Cup due to torn ACL

The second annual in-season tournament resumed Friday with eight games in group play. For an expl...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tournament resumed Friday with eight games in group play. For an explanation on how the tourney works, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><p>To see what happened during Tuesday's action, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3125551" href="https://thescore.com/news/3125551">here</a>.</p><h3>Friday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Nets 98-113 <strong>76ers</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Celtics</strong> 108-96 Wizards</li>
<li>Pacers 117-129 <strong>Bucks</strong>
</li>
<li>Hawks 122-136 <strong>Bulls</strong>
</li>
<li>Blazers 88-116 <strong>Rockets</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Warriors</strong> 112-108 Pelicans</li>
<li>
<strong>Mavericks</strong> 123-120 Nuggets</li>
<li>Kings 88-104 <strong>Clippers</strong>
</li>
</ul><p>Check out our <a href="thescore:///nba/scores">NBA scores page</a> for box score recaps for each game, and the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for group standings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Top performers</h3><p><strong>Jared McCain (Sixers):</strong> The Philadelphia 76ers rookie continues to step up in the absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George. McCain poured in a team-high 30 points against the Brooklyn Nets on 11-of-20 shooting. The Duke product was just four points shy of matching a career high and topped 20 points for a seventh straight game. Only one rookie in NBA history has averaged more points as a starter than McCain's 26 per game: Michael Jordan.</p><p><strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks): </strong>The Greek Freak recorded his 47th career triple-double in a dominant performance against the Indiana Pacers. The 29-year-old recorded 37 points, 10 assists, 11 rebounds, and two steals while shooting 66.6% from the field. Antetokounmpo is now tied with Larry Bird and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar with seven 35-point triple-doubles.</p><p><strong>Nikola Jokic (Nuggets): </strong>The three-time MVP returned with another staggering performance after missing the Denver Nuggets' previous three games due to the birth of his second child. In the Nuggets' loss to the Dallas Mavericks, Jokic recorded his seventh triple-double of the season, tallying 33 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Giannis Antetokounmpo is a MONSTER 😱 <a href="https://t.co/EUoaGHRT5M">pic.twitter.com/EUoaGHRT5M</a></p>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1860160972821868946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>While Reed Sheppard had an outstanding behind-the-back <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1860156577178927279">pass</a> to assist Tari Eason's transition dunk, the Greek Freak takes the cake for his hustle on both ends - denying Bennedict Mathurin's layup before running the lane and bringing home an alley-oop pass off the backboard from Gary Trent Jr.</p><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">You made learning fun thank you for taking a picture with me 🐐 <a href="https://t.co/CWgeEhmhNg">https://t.co/CWgeEhmhNg</a> <a href="https://t.co/EYcvaXOl5J">pic.twitter.com/EYcvaXOl5J</a></p>— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCHWPO/status/1860168494198980817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Jaylen Brown the Science Guy? The Boston Celtics wing was able to meet Bill Nye, the legendary television show host, after his team beat Nye's hometown Washington Wizards. Brown tweeted in November that he wanted to meet Nye, <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1860170161418023014">calling</a> it an "honor" to shake his hand after he influenced his educational journey - which led him to play basketball at Cal.</p><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>The Houston Rockets have been one of the pleasant surprises of the young NBA season, improving to 12-5 with a dominant 28-point victory over the lowly Portland Trail Blazers. Dillon Brooks recorded 28 points and six rebounds and was plus-13, putting him just <a href="https://x.com/statmuse/status/1860157849722323430">behind</a> fellow Canadian Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the NBA's highest plus-minus this season.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The Golden State Warriors are the only team to secure a knockout-round spot via Friday's results courtesy of their win over the New Orleans Pelicans and the Nuggets' loss to the Mavericks.</p><p>The NBA Cup picks up again Tuesday with a five-game slate including a matchup between the red-hot Rockets and slumping Minnesota Timberwolves, while LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers visit the Phoenix Suns.</p><p><em>Tap the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for the latest group standings.</em></p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 22: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors takes a shot in front of New Orleans Pelicans guard Elfrid Payton #22 during the second half of an Emirates NBA Cup game at Smoothie King Center on November 22, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Stephen Curry started the Golden State Warriors' 125-112 victory over the Washington Wizards on M...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> started the Golden State Warriors' 125-112 victory over the Washington Wizards on Monday after missing the last three games due to an ankle injury.</p><p>Curry posted 24 points on 7-of-15 shooting in just 24 minutes. He started the second half on the bench after playing 12 minutes in the first half.</p><p>Sharpshooter Buddy Hield chipped in with 20 points from the bench for the Warriors, while former Golden State guard Jordan Poole led the home side with 24 points.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Warriors (6-1) won all three contests in Curry's absence. They twice beat the New Orleans Pelicans at home before defeating the Houston Rockets in overtime on the road.</p><p>Curry, 36, is averaging 18.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.7 assists in his three previous contests this season.</p><p>The 10-time All-Star sustained the injury late in the third quarter of the team's 112-104 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Oct. 27, its lone defeat of the campaign so far. An MRI revealed no structural damage.</p><p>Curry has battled ankle injuries throughout his 16-year NBA career. The Davidson product missed 40 of the 66 games in the lockout-shortened 2011-12 season due to an ankle injury that required surgery.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - NOVEMBER 04: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors brings the ball up court against Jordan Poole #13 of the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on November 04, 2024 in Washington, DC.

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LeBron James and Anthony Davis combined for 65 points as the Los Angeles Lakers resisted a spirit...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> combined for 65 points as the Los Angeles Lakers resisted a spirited second-half effort from the Toronto Raptors in a 131-125 victory on Friday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69533" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69533">RJ Barrett</a> led the host Raptors with 33 points and a career-high 12 assists, while second-year sharpshooter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110231" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110231">Gradey Dick</a> added a career-best 31 points on 13-of-26 shooting. Barrett and Dick became the first pair in franchise history to each record 30 points in back-to-back games.</p><p>The Lakers led 76-51 at halftime before the Raptors responded with a 37-point third quarter to narrow the advantage in a contest that once seemed out of reach.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>LeBron finished the game with 27 points, 10 assists, and six rebounds as the Lakers snapped a two-game losing streak to improve to 4-2 on the season under first-year head coach JJ Redick. Davis dropped a season-high 38 points to pair with 12 boards, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> contributed 20 points despite shooting 4-of-13 from the field.</p><p>The Raptors continue to play shorthanded due to a series of injuries. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93852" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93852">Immanuel Quickley</a> suffered an injury in the first game of the season, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52805" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52805">Bruce Brown</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2041" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2041">Kelly Olynyk</a> are yet to appear in a game. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> missed his second consecutive game with a right orbital fracture.</p><p>The result in Toronto was the Lakers' first road win of the campaign.</p><p>The Lakers continue their five-game road trip Monday against the 1-5 Detroit Pistons. They opened the road trip with back-to-back losses in Phoenix and Cleveland.</p><p>The Raptors (1-5) next play Saturday, when they host former Toronto fan favorite DeMar DeRozan and the Sacramento Kings. Another former Raptors All-Star, Vince Carter, will have his jersey retired and hung from the rafters during Saturday's festivities.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 1: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball during the game against the Toronto Raptors on November 1, 2024 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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<p>San Francisco 49ers star receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87611" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87611">Deebo Samuel</a> is expected to play Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys, a source told <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1850374952995705079">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Samuel was initially listed as questionable after he was hospitalized earlier in the week due to pneumonia. The 28-year-old was also recovering from a wrist injury, Schefter adds.</p><p>Samuel was active for last Sunday's meeting with the Kansas City Chiefs despite dealing with the illness prior to the game. He lasted four offensive snaps before exiting. It was later determined that the former Pro Bowler had fluid on his lungs, and he was hospitalized with pneumonia-like symptoms.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>His availability for Sunday's visit from the Cowboys will boost a 49ers offense that is reeling from the loss of fellow receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/125339" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/125339">Brandon Aiyuk</a>, who suffered a torn right ACL and MCL against the Chiefs and was ruled out for the remainder of the campaign.</p><p>Samuel has 20 catches for 335 yards this season to pair with 51 yards rushing. He ranks second on the team with 39 touches.</p><p>The 49ers are 3-4 this season.</p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 10: Deebo Samuel Sr. #1 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on October 10, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

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<p>New York Knicks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93881" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93881">Precious Achiuwa</a> will miss the start of the 2024-25 regular season due to a strained left hamstring, the team <a href="https://twitter.com/NY_KnicksPR/status/1848061739276902570">announced</a> Sunday.</p><p>Achiuwa will be re-evaluated in two-to-four weeks, the Knicks added.</p><p>Achiuwa's absence leaves coach Tom Thibodeau with limited frontcourt options as New York chases its first NBA title since 1973.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Center <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62053">Mitchell Robinson</a> is expected to be out until January following left-foot surgery. Robinson initially underwent surgery following an ankle fracture in December 2023 and missed 50 games before re-injuring himself in the playoffs, prompting a second procedure.</p><p>Thibodeau and Co. will also look to quickly integrate All-Star center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a>, who the Knicks acquired in the summer as part of a blockbuster deal that sent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45225" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45225">Donte DiVincenzo</a> the other way. New York also lost center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Isaiah Hartenstein</a> to free agency this summer.</p><p>Achiuwa, 25, averaged 7.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in 49 regular-season outings for the Knicks last season following a trade from the Toronto Raptors in December.</p><p>The Knicks kick off the regular season on Oct. 22 when they travel to Beantown to face the reigning NBA champions, the Boston Celtics.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 14: Precious Achiuwa #5 of the New York Knicks dribbles during Game Five of the Eastern Conference Second Round Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden on May 14, 2024 in New York City. The Knicks won 121-91.

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Kevin Durant enters his 17th NBA season focused on the task at hand despite the looming decision ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> enters his 17th NBA season focused on the task at hand despite the looming decision he must make regarding a contract extension.</p><p>The 14-time All-Star can either agree to a one-year, $59.5-million extension with the Phoenix Suns for the 2026-27 campaign or wait until next summer, when he'll be eligible to sign a two-year extension worth a whopping $123.8 million. He has until Monday to sign the one-year extension.</p><p>"I’ve been blessed enough to be in this position for 18 years and so I’m not really focused on the money part of it," Durant told the <a href="https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nba/suns/2024/10/17/phoenix-suns-star-kevin-durant-has-contract-extension-options/75718392007/">Arizona Republic's Duane Rankin</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I’m just trying to keep getting better and keep growing my game and see how good I can get. That’s always been my main focus. When the time comes, the time comes. Right now, I got two seasons left on my deal so I’m going to focus on those two."</p><p>The 36-year-old was mentioned in trade rumors in the summer following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2903495" href="https://thescore.com/news/2903495">reports</a> that he had issues with his role in Phoenix's offense.</p><p>Those reports prompted Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein to publicly confirm that Durant is happy in Phoenix.</p><p>"The most important thing is Kevin loves being here and we love having Kevin here," Bartelstein told Rankin during the summer.</p><p>Suns owner Mat Ishbia echoed those sentiments on Media Day. </p><p>"Everyone talks about Kevin, Kevin loves it here," Ishbia told Rankin. "We love Kevin Durant. We talk to him and his agent, Rich Kleiman, all the time. We don't really go through contract extensions publicly, but I'll tell you this. Kevin loves it. We love Kevin. We plan on Kevin being here. Nothing is changing with that."</p><p>Suns general manager James Jones sounded similarly unbothered by Durant's extension options, saying: "We'll figure that out. Like Mat said, we don't really talk about that publicly, but the thing we do talk about publicly is who really wants to be here and who is a great fit for us."</p><p>The Suns enter the 2024-25 season with the league's highest payroll and are the first $400-million-plus roster in NBA history. That amount includes the penalties paid for exceeding the second tax apron.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - APRIL 14: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns smiles during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 14, 2024 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Durant not focusing on extension: 'When the time comes, the time comes'

Arizona landed a commitment from five-star forward Dwayne Aristode, the top-20 recruit from the c...

<p>Arizona landed a commitment from five-star forward Dwayne Aristode, the top-20 recruit from the class of 2025 told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/41770602/dwayne-aristode-top-international-prospect-commits-arizona">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>.</p><p>The 6-foot-8, Netherlands-born prospect opted for the Wildcats over Duke, USC, Michigan State, and the NBL Next Stars program</p><p>"The winning culture Tommy Lloyd has built at Arizona is remarkable," Aristode told Givony. "They play fast and have the right balance between structure and giving players freedom."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Aristode, who is entering his second year of high-school basketball in the United States with the Brewster Academy in New Hampshire, made his Netherlands international debut as a 17-year-old and performed well against the likes of Belgium and Serbia.</p><p>"Representing my country was a dream come true," Aristode told Givony. "The pace and physicality were very different. I needed that experience playing against a three-time MVP in Nikola Jokic to see where my game is, and where I want to go personally. I want to help the Netherlands become one of the best teams in the world in the future."</p><p>Aristode is the latest international recruit secured by Lloyd. During his time as an assistant at Gonzaga, he played a role in landing commitments from Domantas Sabonis (Lithuania), Rui Hachimura (Japan), Kelly Olynyk (Canada), and many others.</p><p>Lloyd has continued the trend with the Wildcats. The current roster boasts five international players - Motiejus Krivas (Lithuania), Conrad Martinez (Spain), Anthony Dell'orso (Australia), Henri Veesaar (Estonia), and Emmanuel Stephen (Nigeria).</p><p>Aristode is Arizona's first recruit from the class of 2025.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - DECEMBER 16: The Arizona Wildcats mascot is seen during the game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Indy Classic at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on December 16, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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The NBA released its 2024-25 schedule Thursday, and among the 1,200-plus games on the slate are s...

<p>The NBA <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3054223" href="https://thescore.com/news/3054223">released</a> its 2024-25 schedule Thursday, and among the 1,200-plus games on the slate are several standout matchups. Here's a look at 10 of them.</p><h3>Oct. 22: Ring ceremony in Beantown</h3><p>The Boston Celtics will receive their championship rings and hoist an NBA-record 18th banner as part of pre-game festivities as Mikal Bridges and the new-look New York Knicks visit on Opening Night. The two Atlantic Division rivals also squared off on Opening Night last season, with the Celtics claiming a 108-104 victory at Madison Square Garden.</p><h3>Oct. 22: Redick's 1st game as Lakers coach</h3><p>While the NBA's other monolith celebrates on Opening Night, the Los Angeles Lakers will host the Minnesota Timberwolves as a new chapter in the former's storied history begins. JJ Redick will be in charge for his first regular-season game as the Lakers' bench boss, his first role as a coach in any capacity outside of his son's youth team. This game could also mark Bronny James' professional debut.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Oct. 23: New-look Sixers welcome Bucks to Philly</h3><p>If there are two Eastern Conference teams that need to start the upcoming season on a good note, it's the Philadelphia 76ers and Milwaukee Bucks. Both are coming off first-round exits marred by injuries to their iconic bigs - Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo - and the matchup will be Paul George's first regular-season appearance for the 76ers.</p><h3>Oct. 23: Clippers host 1st game at Intuit Dome</h3><p>Tech billionaire Steve Ballmer's Intuit Dome will host its first regular-season game when the Los Angeles Clippers welcome the Phoenix Suns. Formerly co-tenants with the Los Angeles Kings, Lakers, and Sparks, the Clippers now boast their own $2-billion, privately financed 18,000-seater that includes a double-sided <a href="https://x.com/FOS/status/1814684700142678160">Halo Board</a> above the court and three times the number of toilets as the average NBA arena.</p><h3>Oct. 25: Cavs' home opener has potential for drama</h3><p>The Cleveland Cavaliers will entertain the Detroit Pistons and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff for a home opener that could be tension-filled. The Cavs fired Bickerstaff in May after four years amid reports of an internal conflict with All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell. Post-dismissal, Bickerstaff also appeared to throw shade at Jarrett Allen, who missed the last eight games of the playoffs due to a rib injury.</p><h3>Nov. 6: PG13 returns to L.A.</h3><p>It's unclear what kind of reception California-born George will get upon his return to Los Angeles after <a href="https://www.si.com/nba/paul-george-calls-the-clippers-los-angeles-b-team">characterizing</a> his five-year spell with the Clippers as "I'm on the B team." The nine-time All-Star's quote was more a statement about the team living in the shadow of the Lakers, though a homecoming that will also feature the always-divisive Embiid could make for some drama.</p><h3>Nov. 12: Klay's back in the Bay Area</h3><p>On the heels of a celebrated 11-season spell with the Golden State Warriors that included four championships and five All-Star selections, Klay Thompson returns to the Bay Area in a Dallas Mavericks jersey for this highly anticipated reunion. Thompson penned a three-year, $50-million deal with the Mavs in July following a sign-and-trade that was part of an NBA-record six-team transaction.</p><h3>Dec. 19: French studs tango at The Alamo</h3><p>Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs welcome Zaccharie Risacher and the Atlanta Hawks to town in a clash between the two most recent No. 1 picks. The French invasion continues after Risacher was one of three countrymen selected in the top six in the 2024 NBA Draft, marking the first time in league history that three or more players from outside the U.S. were chosen among the first 10 picks in the same draft.</p><h3>Dec. 25: Joyeux Noel in San Antonio</h3><p>Speaking of the Spurs, Gregg Popovich and Co. will participate in their first Christmas Day game since 2016-17 when Wembanyama and newcomer Chris Paul host the Knicks at the Frost Bank Center. The T-Wolves and Mavericks will also meet in Minnesota in a Western Conference finals rematch as part of the annual five-game festive slate.</p><h3>Jan. 25: Finals rematch in Dallas</h3><p>The Celtics head to the Lone Star State to face the Mavericks in a rematch of the 2024 NBA Finals, which Boston won in five games behind an MVP display from Jaylen Brown. The two sides will also lock horns in Boston on Feb. 6, with Eastern and Western Conference teams playing each other just twice a season under the league's current scheduling format.</p>

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The New York Knicks and head coach Tom Thibodeau have agreed on a three-year extension through th...

<p>The New York Knicks and head coach Tom Thibodeau have agreed on a three-year extension through the 2027-28 season, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1816164060766892092">ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski</a>.</p><p>The two-time NBA Coach of the Year has led the Knicks to the Eastern Conference semifinals in each of the last two seasons after joining the organization ahead of the shortened 2020-21 campaign.</p><p>Thibodeau's extension marks the latest move in a busy summer for the Knicks. The team has signed All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> to a team-friendly four-year, $156.5-million extension and re-signed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a> to a five-year, $212.5-million deal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>New York also landed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a> in a three-team trade with the Brooklyn Nets and Houston Rockets in exchange for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11056">Bojan Bogdanovic</a>, guard <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45077">Shake Milton</a>, and several future first-round picks.</p><p>Thibodeau's tenure with the Knicks is his third permanent head coaching job in the NBA following spells with the Chicago Bulls and Minnesota Timberwolves.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MAY 17: Head coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks looks on in the fourth quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on May 17, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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The Golden State Warriors are working with the Philadelphia 76ers to finalize a sign-and-trade fo...

<p>The Golden State Warriors are working with the Philadelphia 76ers to finalize a sign-and-trade for veteran wing Buddy Hield, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1808351511354716657">The Athletic's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The Warriors are looking to replace some perimeter shooting after four-time NBA champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a> left the organization after 13 seasons Monday. Thompson <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/news/2934467">reportedly</a> inked a three-year, $50-million deal with the Dallas Mavericks as part of a three-team sign-and-trade agreement.</p><p>Hield is widely viewed as one of the NBA's top threats from behind the arc and shot 38.6% from deep in 84 regular-season outings with the Indiana Pacers and 76ers in 2023-24. The Oklahoma product was traded to Philadelphia in February in a three-team deal that also included the San Antonio Spurs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 31-year-old has shot 40% from three across eight seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, Pacers and 76ers.</p><p>Hield was one of over a half-dozen Sixers who entered the offseason facing free agency. The organization was active on Monday, reportedly signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> to a four-year, $212-million deal. Philadelphia also reportedly re-signed All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> to a five-year, $204-million max extension and guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37666" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37666">Kelly Oubre Jr.</a> to a two-year, $18.5-million pact.</p><p>The Warriors, meanwhile, reportedly added forward Kyle Anderson on a three-year, $27-million contract via a sign-and-trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves earlier Tuesday. They also reached a one-year, $12.8-million agreement with former 76ers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53030" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/53030">De'Anthony Melton</a> Monday.</p><p>Hield scored 24 points Tuesday as the Bahamas topped Finland 96-85 in the first game of the Olympic men's basketball qualifying tournament in Valencia, Spain.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 14: Buddy Hield #17 of the Philadelphia 76ers celebrates during the game against the Brooklyn Nets at the Wells Fargo Center on April 14, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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The Washington Wizards opted for Alexandre Sarr with the second overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draf...

<p>The Washington Wizards opted for Alexandre Sarr with the second overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft on Wednesday.</p><p>Sarr, 19, is the second Frenchman to be selected in this year's draft after Zaccharie Risacher was picked by the Atlanta Hawks at No. 1.</p><h3>Bio</h3><p><strong>Position:</strong> Forward/center<br><strong>Club: </strong>Perth (Australia)<br><strong>Height:</strong> 7-foot-1<br><strong>Weight:</strong> 224 lbs<br><strong>Wingspan:</strong> 7-foot-4<br><strong>Max vertical: </strong>37 inches</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>2023-24 statistics with Perth:</strong></p><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>BLK</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>51.6</td>
<td>28.6</td>
<td>71.0</td>
<td>4.26</td>
<td>1.3</td>
<td>9.44</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Sarr is viewed as an athletic rim-protector with above-average mobility for a big fitting his profile. His size and paint presence should help cover for the Wizards' defensive liabilities.</p><p><strong>NBA comparable: </strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62285" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/62285">Jaren Jackson Jr</a>. Sarr's defensive impact and ability to face up and shoot from the perimeter is reminiscent of the Memphis Grizzlies big man and 2023 Defensive Player of the Year.</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - JUNE 26: NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver poses for a photo with Alex Sarr after being drafted second overall by the Washington Wizards during the 2024 NBA Draft - Round One on June 26, 2024 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Wizards select Alexandre Sarr with No. 2 pick

Brad Stevens appears to prefer operating in the shadows while the spotlight shines on others.   T...

<p>Brad Stevens appears to prefer operating in the shadows while the spotlight shines on others. </p><p>The Celtics' president of basketball operations' statement upon receiving the 2023-24 NBA Executive of the Year award at the end of April suggested as much: "This recognition has everything to do with the team, and nothing to do with any one individual."</p><p>Whether or not Stevens seeks praise for his efforts, he deserves heaps of credit for constructing a championship Boston team that was without rival this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown boast eight All-Star selections and four All-NBA team nods between them, and Brown's now a Finals MVP. But as much as Beantown's two-headed monster gave this team the star power required for a championship, it was the supporting cast that galvanized the Celtics' strengths.</p><p>Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford provided the Celtics with stellar two-way play and an unrelenting intensity that became both the ethos and backbone of a team that suffered few low points. The Celtics likely don't lift the Larry O'Brien Trophy without this quartet.</p><p>Just ask Stevens. In eight seasons as Boston's soft-spoken head coach, he amassed a 354-282 regular-season record and led the team to the playoffs in seven of eight tries after missing out in his debut year in charge. Those teams got no further than the conference finals on three occasions, and his successor, Ime Udoka, was on the losing end of the 2022 NBA Finals in six games to the Warriors. Something was missing.</p><p>So, how did we get here? Four influential trades shrewdly engineered by front-office mastermind Stevens were the difference.</p><h3>Horford returns after OKC banishment</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633267/cropped_GettyImages-2154519055.jpg?ts=1718672773" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633267/w220xh124_GettyImages-2154519055.jpg?ts=1718672773 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633267/w320xh180_GettyImages-2154519055.jpg?ts=1718672773 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633267/w640xh360_GettyImages-2154519055.jpg?ts=1718672773 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633267/w768xh432_GettyImages-2154519055.jpg?ts=1718672773 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633267/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2154519055.jpg?ts=1718672773 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Boston Globe / Boston Globe / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="DERRICK WHITE TRADE (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-3OjFO" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/3OjFO/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="202" 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>After a three-year spell in Boston followed by stints in Philadelphia and Oklahoma City, Horford played only 28 games with the Thunder in 2020-21 before sitting out the remainder of the season as the organization prioritized a youth movement. A solid career was at a standstill.</p><p>In his first move as team president in June 2021, Stevens shipped Kemba Walker and a pair of picks to OKC for frontcourt duo Horford and Moses Brown. Walker was bought out by OKC and played 46 combined games with the Knicks and Mavericks across two injury-plagued seasons before heading to Europe.</p><p>In 60 playoff outings across three seasons since returning to Boston, Horford averaged 9.4 points and 7.9 rebounds, but more importantly, the 38-year-old was a defensive stalwart. In Game 1 against the Mavs, Horford excelled when forced to guard Luka Doncic in pick-and-roll scenarios. Doncic scored two points on 0-for-8 shooting in the contest with Horford as his primary defender.</p><p>Boston talked a lot about winning a title for the veteran. Mission accomplished.</p><h3>Celtics acquire White from Spurs</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="[ Insert title here ]" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-i65SE" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/i65SE/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="230" 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>In a move that in hindsight cost the Celtics very little, Boston traded for White in February 2021 after he signed a four-year, $70-million rookie extension with the Spurs. If that seems like a bargain for one of the league's best pound-for-pound defenders, that's because it is.</p><p>If there's a player who epitomizes the selflessness and defensively unrelenting identity of this Celtics team, it's White. He's twice been selected All-NBA Defensive second team since joining Boston and was included in shortlists for biggest All-Star snubs this season. He also went from being a below-average shooter from deep to flirting with a 40% clip in 2023-24.</p><p>The 29-year-old was a constant presence against the Mavs, especially on the defensive end where the undrafted guard displayed some deft rim-protection skills: White's game-saving late block on P.J. Washington in Game 2 secured a pivotal victory.</p><h3>Porzingis to Boston in 3-team deal</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633269/cropped_GettyImages-1444849945.jpg?ts=1718672872" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633269/w220xh124_GettyImages-1444849945.jpg?ts=1718672872 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633269/w320xh180_GettyImages-1444849945.jpg?ts=1718672872 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633269/w640xh360_GettyImages-1444849945.jpg?ts=1718672872 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633269/w768xh432_GettyImages-1444849945.jpg?ts=1718672872 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633269/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1444849945.jpg?ts=1718672872 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Boston Globe / Boston Globe / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="JRUE HOLIDAY TRADE (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jJm18" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jJm18/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="279" 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>The Celtics acquired Porzingis in a massive three-team trade the day after the 2023 NBA Draft, in a deal that sent fan favorite Marcus Smart to Memphis a year removed from his Defensive Player of the Year season.</p><p>After a mercurial eight-season spell with the Knicks, Mavs, and Wizards, Porzingis found a role with Joe Mazzulla's Celtics that suited him well: The Latvian became a third option who blended traditional big-man duties with savvy floor-spacing perimeter skills. He averaged 20.1 points during the regular season on only 13.2 field goal attempts - efficient stuff.</p><p>Despite missing 10 playoff outings and the third game of the Finals due to various ailments, Porzingis went off in Game 1 vs. the Mavs, scoring 18 first-quarter points and setting the tone for a series that significantly favored Boston. "It doesn't matter how long the guy is off, he's going to make plays," Mazzulla said after Game 1.</p><h3>Stevens sends haul for Holiday</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="AL HORFORD TRADE (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-8f2Zq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8f2Zq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="230" 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>In September 2023, the Celtics acquired Holiday from the Trail Blazers for a haul that at the time seemed not insignificant. The fact Malcolm Brogdon and Robert Williams can't stay healthy skews that assessment. The move came days after the Bucks shipped two-time All-Star Holiday to Portland for a package that included Dame Lillard. In getting Lillard, the elite guard they hoped to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks indirectly gifted their conference rivals a defensive workhorse perfectly suited for Mazzulla's Celtics.</p><p>A six-time NBA All-Defensive team selection, Holiday's arguably the league's best perimeter defender. He can also contribute on the offensive end when needed, like in Game 2 of the Finals. With Tatum mired in a shooting slump, Holiday filled the void with a team-high 26 points on 11-of-14 shooting. He became the first player in Finals history to record at least 25 points and 10 rebounds on 75% or better shooting with zero turnovers.</p><p>During Boston's Game 3 victory, 76ers All-Star Joel Embiid <a href="https://x.com/JoelEmbiid/status/1801076572671156678">tweeted</a>: "Did the bucks give them the championship?" Asked about the comment during the broadcast ahead of Game 4, Embiid confirmed he was talking about Holiday. To answer Joel's question: No, the Bucks didn't give the Celtics the championship, though it's unlikely they win it without Holiday.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633319/cropped_GettyImages-2158043557.jpg?ts=1718705851" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633319/w220xh124_GettyImages-2158043557.jpg?ts=1718705851 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633319/w320xh180_GettyImages-2158043557.jpg?ts=1718705851 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633319/w640xh360_GettyImages-2158043557.jpg?ts=1718705851 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633319/w768xh432_GettyImages-2158043557.jpg?ts=1718705851 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/633319/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2158043557.jpg?ts=1718705851 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Adam Glanzman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Stevens was barely noticeable on the stage during postgame celebrations Monday in Boston - that's him, furthest to the right, in the photo above - before speaking with media.</p><p>Asked about his role in building a championship side - let's not forget Stevens also struck gold in naming Mazzulla Udoka's successor - the characteristically reticent and modest executive <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSCeltics/status/1802920786388267054">stuck to the script</a>. "When I say I didn't do anything, like, I didn't do <em>anything</em>."</p><p>Fresh off an outstanding series at both ends, Holiday joined the interview, telling Stevens, "Thanks for bringing me here and being a part of this because there's no greater feeling than this." To which Stevens responded: "And to the long road ahead."</p><p>Never change, Brad Stevens.</p>

BOSTON, MA - JUNE 17: Brad Stevens of the Boston Celtics talks to the media after the game against the Dallas Mavericks during Game 5 of the 2024 NBA Finals on June 17, 2024 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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<p><em>Find the biggest stories from across the soccer world by visiting our <a href="thescore:///topsn/news">Top Soccer News</a> section and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>An expected club-record crowd for a Vancouver Whitecaps match won't see Inter Miami star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://www.thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> in the flesh.</p><p>Nor will they see fellow Miami stars <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/4433" href="https://www.thescore.com/mls/players/4433">Luis Suarez</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1114" href="https://www.thescore.com/mls/players/1114">Sergio Busquets</a> after it was reported that the trio of former Barcelona icons will not make the trip for Saturday's clash at BC Place.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster all but confirmed the absences of Messi &amp; Co.</p><p>"Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent, and it was important for us to communicate to our fans as soon as possible," Schuster said in a <a href="https://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/vwfc-statement-miami">team statement</a>.</p><p>"We know that there will also be a lot of disappointed fans," Schuster added.</p><p>According to the Whitecaps' statement, a club-record MLS-era 55,000-sellout crowd was expected with pre-match festivities including "the biggest street party in the team’s history."</p><p>The Inter Miami trio are not injured and are skipping the match for rest, sources told the <a href="https://x.com/kaufsports/status/1793794050421674200">Miami Herald's Michelle Kaufman</a>.</p><p>Miami also has a home match against Atlanta United next Wednesday.</p><p>The club says it will offer all food and drinks at stadium concessions at 50% off and all entrants 18 years of age or younger will receive one complimentary kids combo.</p><p>"We remain committed to making this a special experience for everyone," Schuster said. </p><p>"It is still going to be an incredible atmosphere and celebration of soccer for our city. We have amazing fans, we have a good team, and Saturday's match is a very important home game for us."</p><p>At the time of the Whitecaps' team statement, some tickets for the May 25 match were priced in the thousands on <a href="https://www.ticketmaster.ca/vancouver-whitecaps-fc-vs-inter-miami-vancouver-british-columbia-05-25-2024/event/1100602DCBA3255F?utm_source=vancouver%20is%20awesome&amp;utm_campaign=vancouver%20is%20awesome%3A%20outbound&amp;utm_medium=referral">Ticketmaster</a>, with one ticket seller asking over $10,000 CAD for a single seat.</p><p>Miami enters Saturday's match with the best record in MLS. The team has six wins and a draw in their last seven league outings, outscoring opponents 20-8 in that stretch.</p>

MONTREAL, CANADA - MAY 11: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami reacts as teammate Luis Suárez #9 looks on during the second half against CF Montréal at Saputo Stadium on May 11, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Inter Miami defeated CF Montréal 3-2.

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<p>Toronto has been awarded the WNBA's 14th franchise, with the club planning to begin play for the 2026 season, according to <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/sports/basketball/wnba-toronto-awarded-expansion-team-1.7198595">CBC's Shireen Ahmed</a>.</p><p>The WNBA granted the franchise to Toronto billionaire Larry Tanenbaum's Kilmer Sports Inc., according to Ahmed. Tanenbaum is a minority owner and chairman of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE), the company that owns the Toronto Raptors and three other franchises in the city.</p><p>Tanenbaum initially sought an expansion franchise under the MLSE umbrella, a decision other board members voted down.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>An announcement about the WNBA's newest franchise is reportedly expected on May 23 in Toronto.</p><p>Kilmer Sports Inc. is a new section of Tanenbaum's Kilmer Group. The organization hired notable European soccer executive Ivan Gazidis and former Raptors vice president of basketball operations Teresa Resch to lead it.</p><p>The squad is slated to play in Toronto's Coca-Cola Coliseum, a source told Ahmed. The venue's an 8,000-seat area where the PWHL's Toronto team is wrapping up its first-ever campaign.</p><p>The WNBA has already found success in its limited Canadian endeavors, selling out the Raptors' Scotiabank Arena for a preseason game last spring and over 16,000 tickets for a contest in Edmonton last week.</p><p>Golden State was recently awarded the WNBA's 13th franchise, the league's first expansion since 2008. The team will begin play in 2025.</p><p>Women's basketball continues to grow in Canada, with the country producing WNBA first-rounders in back-to-back drafts. The Washington Mystics selected UConn All-American Aaliyah Edwards, from Kingston, Ontario, at No. 6 overall in this year's draft.</p>

COLLEGE PARK, GA JUNE 26: The WNBA logo on the court during the WNBA game between the Connecticut Sun and the Atlanta Dream on June 26th, 2022 at Gateway Center Arena in College Park, GA.

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