10:36 AM ET The Washington Wizards are finalizing a deal to acquire Denver Nuggets guards Will Barton and Monte Morris in return for guards Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Ish Smith, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski on Wednesday. The trade is getting final approvals now, and expected to be completed soon, sources said. Barton started all 71
NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins called out Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green in a now-deleted tweet — but the receipts are still available. Draymond Green isn’t quite finished with his victory lap after Golden State won the NBA Finals. Long after the Warriors parade is all wrapped up, Green is now checking off every media
9:50 PM ET LOS ANGELES — LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer raised his hands up and began rocking back and forth as he began to think about the idea of a healthy Kawhi Leonard returning this upcoming season. After not having Leonard all of last season while he recovered from a torn right ACL, Ballmer
New York Knicks guard Kemba Walker. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports) Nets executive sends message to Kyrie Irving with recent Twitter activity by Scott Rogust The New York Knicks were active on NBA Draft night but they left pretty much everyone confused with their moves surrounding Jalen Duren and others. What the heck just happened? Knicks
Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson is reportedly expected to leave in free agency and sign with the New York Knicks for huge money. The New York Knicks were the focus of the 2022 NBA Draft after they made three trades in the first round. They managed to dump Kemba Walker’s contract off to the Detroit
According to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater, the Golden State Warriors are prioritizing bringing Kevon Looney and Gary Paton II back to Chase Center. The Golden State Warriors won another championship for revered veterans such as Steph Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson. But the team’s younger players — Andrew Wiggins, Kevon Looney and Gary Payton
6:14 PM ET The New York Knicks are considered strong favorites to sign Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson in free agency, sources told ESPN. It’s widely anticipated that Brunson will agree to a four-year deal in excess of $100 million to sign with the Knicks soon after free agency opens on Thursday evening, league sources
It’s one of the biggest hypotheticals in NBA Draft history — What if Kevin Durant and Greg Oden had been selected in a different order? The 15th anniversary of the 2007 NBA Draft is here. Sorry, Blazers fans. Let’s get this over with and delve into the latest “What If,” courtesy of Strat-O-Matic, the Market Leader
10:55 AM ET Los Angeles Lakers star Russell Westbrook is planning to exercise his $47.1 million option for the 2022-23 season to return to the franchise, sources told ESPN on Tuesday. Westbrook’s agent Thad Foucher is planning to file the paperwork Tuesday, sources said. Westbrook has a Wednesday deadline on his option. Westbrook, an eight-time
Auburn Tigers forward Jabari Smith speak during a press conference before the second round of the 2022 NCAA tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, S.C., on Saturday, March 19, 2022. Arch Manning chooses Texas over Ole Miss, Alabama and others by Matt Verderame Twitter goes wild over Arch Manning to Texas Longhorns by
According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Kyrie Irving has exercised his $36.5 million player option for the 2022-23 season and will stay with the Brooklyn Nets. Throughout the offseason, NBA fans were following the Kyrie Irving-Brooklyn Nets situation, as reports indicated that contract discussions between both sides were going nowhere. Things only escalated when Irving provided
9:49 PM ET Adrian Wojnarowski Close Senior NBA Insider Host of The Woj Pod Joined ESPN in 2017 Tim MacMahon Close ESPN Staff Writer Joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009 Covers the Dallas Cowboys and Dallas Mavericks Appears regularly on ESPN Dallas 103.3 FM After agreeing to a buyout with the Houston Rockets, guard John Wall
Oklahoma City Thunder rookies Jaylen Williams and Jaylin Williams recreated the Spider Man pointing meme when taking photos with the team. The Oklahoma City Thunder had an eventful NBA Draft night. Not only did they select Gonzaga’s Chet Holmgren with the second-overall pick, but they drafted three other players on the night. Two of those
6:48 PM ET Kyrie Irving is opting into his $36.5 million option with the Brooklyn Nets for next season, he told The Athletic on Monday. “Normal people keep the world going, but those who dare to be different lead us into tomorrow,” Irving told The Athletic. “I’ve made my decision to opt in. See you
MIAMI, FLORIDA – APRIL 05: A detail of Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat shoes prior to the game against the Charlotte Hornets at FTX Arena on April 05, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the
Apr 12, 2022; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving (11) reacts during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports Simone Biles gets her first Wheaties box for company’s 100th anniversary by Lela Moore Kyrie Irving’s off-the-court antics make him a perfect fit for
It’s NBA Draft night which means the trades winds will be whirling and deals will be made that alter the future of franchises all over the league. Like a tree falling in the forest when no one is around to hear it, is it truly the NBA Draft without an onslaught of trades? Perhaps more
Draymond Green vs. Ja Morant is the new Twitter feud we never knew that we all needed. As Draymond Green gets ready for NBA championship parade No. 4, the Golden State Warriors star went after Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies franchise on Twitter late into Saturday night. Golden State was able to get past
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MAY 07: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies drives towards the basket past Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors in the second half of Game Three of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs at Chase Center on May 07, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO
Philadelphia 76ers Doc Rivers. (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) Ole Miss wins College World Series in epic comeback: Fans, media react by John Buhler The Philadelphia 76ers are planning to entice free agents to join them this summer with the draw of playing for Doc Rivers. If the 76ers want to compete for titles, they need
Draymond Green has no fear of LeBron James and Kyrie Irving potentially teaming up with the Lakers and he’s letting everyone know it. Draymond Green isn’t shy about his opinions. If he has something to say, he says it. So when he was asked about the prospect of LeBron James and Kyrie Irving teaming back
Los Angeles Lakers guard Russell Westbrook. (Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports) Braves fans can’t stop loving Freddie Freeman by Alicia de Artola Skip Bayless didn’t back down from his criticism of Russell Westbrook, doubling down on Twitter after the Lakers star called him out. Skip Bayless is the ultimate sports troll. Rule No. 1 when dealing
Kevin Durant, Brooklyn Nets, Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers, Team USA. (Photo by THOMAS COEX/AFP via Getty Images) Pacers rookie Bennedict Mathurin already eyeing LeBron James’ crown by Cody Williams Damian Lillard posted a photo of himself and Kevin Durant, who was wearing a Portland Trail Blazers uniform, on his Instagram Story. The NBA world
11:00 PM ET ESPN News Services The Philadelphia 76ers are trading the No. 23 pick from Thursday night’s NBA draft and small forward Danny Green to the Memphis Grizzlies for shooting guard De’Anthony Melton, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Memphis will get the rights to guard David Roddy, sources said. Philadelphia selected him at No.
The New York Knicks are reportedly prepared to make a lucrative offer to a particular free agent this offseason. The New York Knicks left many baffled on the night of the NBA Draft. They made multiple trades in the first-round, and ended up with zero players. Instead, they have future first-round selections and dumped the
11:04 AM ET Five-star recruit Matas Buzelis — the No. 11 player in ESPN’s Top 100 for the Class of 2023 — has committed to the G League Ignite for the 2023-2024 season, sources told ESPN on Friday. Buzelis, a skilled 6-foot-10 forward, will bypass college basketball and sign into the NBA’s professional pathway program
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports Saints: Alvin Kamara bracing for major NFL suspension by Mark Powell The Orlando Magic shocked the world by taking Duke’s Paolo Banchero with the first-overall pick of the 2022 NBA Draft. The Orlando Magic had the worst record in the Eastern Conference this past season, and it helped them win the
Bennedict Mathurin was a Top 6 pick by the Indiana Pacers but the rookie is already taking some shots at LeBron James, which might not be the smartest move. Prior to the full evaluation process in the 2022 NBA Draft, there were some wondering just how high Arizona Wildcats product Bennedict Mathurin would be drafted.
Mar 26, 2018; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford looks at a referee after a foul call in the second half against the New York Knicks at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports Bears: Matt Adams arrested for gun possession by Scott Rogust After Kenny Atkinson backed out of the
12:52 AM ET Dan HajduckyESPN Close Hajducky is a reporter/researcher for ESPN. He has an MFA in creative writing from Fairfield University and played on the men’s soccer teams at Fordham and Southern Connecticut State universities. The basketball card that rapper and NBA superfan Drake spent at least $200,000 trying to find — the 2020-21
Russell Westbrook of the Los Angeles Lakers put FOX Sports personality Skip Bayless on blast for calling him “Westbrick” on Twitter. The Los Angeles Lakers initially did not have a selection in the 2022 NBA Draft, but that all changed after they made a trade with the Orlando Magic to secure the 35th-overall pick. With
8:00 AM ET Gay people have made strides in many sectors of American professional life. An openly gay man runs Apple, presides as the governor of Colorado, and an open lesbian runs a Fortune 500 company. But in the highest reaches of men’s basketball, gay people are almost invisible. In 2011, 58-year-old Phoenix Suns CEO
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green blasted ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins for his NBA Draft coverage. Green and Perkins have a longstanding feud related to the former Celtics center’s NBA Finals coverage. In this day and age of sports coverage, anything over a week is longstanding. Sorry, that’s how we work. Perkins was on ESPN’s NBA
Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry is launching a free golf tour for underrepresented players. The Golden State Warriors recently celebrated their fourth NBA Championship in eight years with a parade this week after defeating the Boston Celtics in six games in the NBA Finals. Stephen Curry won his first NBA Finals MVP award of
Russell Westbrook’s future with the Los Angeles Lakers is looming as free agency approaches. In the coming days, Russell Westbrook will have to decide whether to either opt in or opt out of the final year of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. He has a player option for the 2022-23 NBA season worth over $47 million.
4:38 PM ET Associated Press ORLANDO, Fla. — The secret about how Orlando was going to take Paolo Banchero with the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft was incredibly well-kept. Among those who didn’t know: Banchero himself. Banchero said even he was kept out of the Magic decision loop until about 30 seconds before
The New York Knicks made two trades in the NBA Draft night, and fans Stephen A. Smith and Spike Lee went through all of the emotions. It is the NBA Draft, which means that New York Knicks fans are bracing themselves for disappointment. But the Knicks decided that this year, they sent the fanbase through
The Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets and New York Knicks combined for a ridiculous trade on NBA Draft night, which sent Kemba Walker and Jalen Duren to the Motor City. Did the Pistons just win draft night? Honestly, it’s starting to seem that way. Detroit drafted Jaden Ivey, arguably the most high-profile guard in this draft
Jaden Ivey is continuing his family legacy in Detroit, as he was selected with the fifth-overall pick by the Pistons in the NBA Draft. The NBA Draft saw 58 prospects achieve their dreams of playing professional basketball. For Purdue guard Jaden Ivey, he had the chance to achieve his dream and continue his family’s sports
Golden State Warriors center Kevon Looney. (Ezra Shaw/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports) The Golden State Warriors didn’t have a ton to do in the NBA Draft after winning the title. Now that it’s done, they do have work to do in the offseason. Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green restored the Warriors dynasty this year
6:39 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN NEW YORK — Kyrie Irving has created a list of teams he’d like the Brooklyn Nets to consider working with on a sign-and-trade if he and the team can’t agree on terms for him to stay in Brooklyn, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. That list includes the Los Angeles Lakers,
As the effects of the overturning of Roe v. Wade ripple throughout the nation, notable professional athletes and teams speak out while many remain silent. There’s an intersection between social justice and sports not because people are changing, but because platforms are. In 1969, Olympic gold medalist Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists
5:39 PM ET ESPN News Services Steve Clifford has agreed to a deal to return as the Charlotte Hornets‘ coach, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The 60-year-old Clifford spent five seasons coaching the Hornets, compiling a 196-214 record with a team that included Kemba Walker. He led the Hornets to two playoff appearances prior to
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The offseason got off to an unofficial start last night with news that the Houston Rockets had agreed to trade Christian Wood to the Dallas Mavericks for Boban Marjanovic,
Now that insiders have listed preferred destinations for Kyrie Irving if he seeks a trade from the Brooklyn Nets. Which are the best and worst fits? Kyrie Irving has about a week to opt in or out of his player option with the Nets for the 2022-23 season. In the meantime, pressure is riding on
Shareef O’Neal, son of Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal, has agreed to play in the Summer League for the Los Angeles Lakers. The 2022 NBA Draft arrived on June 23, and one of the names of interest that was not Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren or Jabari Smith Jr. was Shareef O’Neal, the son of Hall
10:10 PM ET The Detroit Pistons acquired veteran guard Kemba Walker from the New York Knicks as part of a three-team trade involving the Charlotte Hornets that also saw the Pistons acquire the draft rights to Jalen Duren on Thursday night. Walker and the Pistons are expected to discuss a contract buyout that will allow
Montverde Academy’s Dariq Whitehead (0) reacts after forcing a turnover during the second half of the GEICO Nationals quarterfinal between AZ Compass Prep (Ariz.) and Montverde Academy (Fla.), Thursday, March 31, 2022, at Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers, Fla.Montverde Academy defeated AZ Compass Prep 72-63.GEICO Nationals 2022: AZ Compass Prep (Ariz.) vs. Montverde
Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) Jalen Duren trade details: All of the Knicks-Pistons chaos, explained by Mark Powell Brooklyn Nets owner Joe Tsai’s recent Twitter activity seemingly sends a message to Kyrie Irving. The Brooklyn Nets’ super team may be on the verge of ending, as the team and Kyrie Irving
2:01 AM ET NBA Insiders With the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NBA draft, the Orlando Magic selected Duke forward Paolo Banchero. The move came as something of a surprise, given that Banchero never met with the Magic and the consensus around the league was that Auburn’s Jabari Smith Jr. would be headed to
Adrian Wojnarowski didn’t make any friends on NBA Draft night when he whiffed on the first three picks and spoiled the No. 1 overall selection. Usually, a Woj Bomb is unimpeachable. When ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski says to expect something to happen in the NBA world, it does. That wasn’t the case on Thursday as a
8:11 PM ET The Orlando Magic selected Duke’s Paolo Banchero with the No. 1 overall pick of the 2022 NBA draft on Thursday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. “I dont even know what to say,” Banchero said on ESPN’s draft broadcast. “I can’t believe what just happened. Honestly.” A 6-foot-10 forward, Banchero helped
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. Player comparisons are an inevitable part of the NBA Draft conversation, a handy shorthand for communicating a large amount of information about a player’s physical tools, skills, possible NBA
8:00 AM ET HOUSTON — Christian Wood keeps swishing 3-pointers and smiling, the skilled big man showing off his shooting range and seemingly responding whenever the other team gets within striking distance. It’s June 13, and Game 5 of the NBA Finals tips off in eight hours, but metaphorically, this pickup game takes place as
Kevin Durant responded to Charles Barkley’s claim that he needs to be “the bus driver” of a championship team to earn respect from “the old heads.” The Golden State Warriors are once again NBA Champions, which means that Kevin Durant will be discussed ad nauseam. Why? Because he left the Warriors in 2019 to join
Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports) Kevin Durant’s future with the Brooklyn Nets looks tenuous with Kyrie Irving possibly leaving. What trade fits make the most sense if he wants out? The Nets have practically nothing to show from the Big 3 of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden. At this
The latest intriguing Lakers rumors have LeBron James talking to Nets star Kyrie Irving behind the scenes about a reunion in Los Angeles. Could LeBron James and Kyrie Irving really hook back up with the Lakers? That’s the talk around the internet right now as Irving’s contract dispute with the Nets continues. Marc Stein reported
4:35 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — At one point early in the NBA playoffs, Golden State Warriors general manager Bob Myers and head coach Steve Kerr had a conversation about how they didn’t feel their team was championship caliber. They saw themselves as a Western Conference finals team, maybe, but compared with the
You can’t blame the Lakers for trying but it’s no surprise the Pacers weren’t interested in the questionable Russell Westbrook trade package they offered. The Los Angeles Lakers have been signaling their willingness to keep Russell Westbrook into next season but that may be, in part, because they have precious few options for moving him.
BROOKLINE, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 15: Shane Lowry of Ireland stands on the 12th hole during a practice round prior to the 122nd U.S. Open Championship at The Country Club on June 15, 2022 in Brookline, Massachusetts. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images) Browns rookie making Jarvis Landry an afterthought by Alicia de Artola Shane Lowry clearly
Mar 20, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; Boston Celtics guard Nik Stauskas (13) warms up before the game against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports The Celtics don’t have any big-name free agents but there will almost certainly be some changes to their roster after a disappointing NBA Finals
The Portland Trail Blazers acquired Pistons forward Jerami Grant the day before the 2022 NBA Draft, and didn’t give up much in immediate assets. Grant has flourished in his time with the Pistons, in part due to the saying, “Well, someone has to score.” But Grant is a capable wing, and has been on the
6:13 PM ET The Detroit Pistons are trading forward Jerami Grant to the Portland Trail Blazers for a 2025 first-round pick via the Milwaukee Bucks, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The 2025 first-round pick via Milwaukee is protected Nos. 1-4, sources said. Detroit sends Grant into a $21 million trade exception, and the Pistons now
The NBA playoffs have come and gone, but an important question remains: What are the top 10 power dunks of the 2021-22 playoffs? The NBA’s 75th Anniversary season has drawn to a close with the Golden State Warriors hoisting their fourth Larry O’Brien trophy in the last eight years, the last team standing once again
May 25, 2022; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) talks with guard Duncan Robinson (55) during the fourth quarter of game five of the 2022 eastern conference finals against the Miami Heat at FTX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports The Heat came up just short against the Celtics in this
9:58 AM ET Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, a prominent minority owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, is selling his stake in the Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment company that owns the Sixers and New Jersey Devils, he announced Wednesday. Rubin, who sources say holds a 10% equity stake in HBSE, is divesting his 11-year stake in
Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports The Warriors are set to be one of the most expensive teams in NBA history next year. Landing a cheap first-round talent is crucial for Golden State. No one in Golden State is complaining about the team’s high-priced payroll in the wake of winning this year’s NBA title. That doesn’t mean
11:38 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN After Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum had a rough NBA Finals, Brad Stevens had a simple message for his team’s franchise player. “I just told him to go on vacation,” Stevens, Boston’s president of basketball operations, said with a smile during a videoconference call with reporters after Boston’s season ended
Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports Packers: Marcedes Lewis on track to set major tight end record by Eric Treuden LIV Golf rumors: Collin Morikawa denies he’ll follow Brooks Koepka by Drew Koch NBA Draft rumors have pegged several NBA teams as trying to trade down in the top 10. Now the New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. Trade rumors are heating up and there are a slew of big names that could be on the market, along with a handful of teams with high first-round picks
John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports The Utah Jazz have several huge decisions to make this offseason. Finding a new head coach who can keep their star guard, Donovan Mitchell, happy is key. The Utah Jazz are looking to bounce back from another playoff disappointment and will be doing so without head coach Quin Snyder, who
The Charlotte Hornets might make some moves ahead of the 2022 NBA Draft before hiring their next head coach because that is just who they are as a basketball franchise right now. After being left at the altar by Golden State Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson, the Charlotte Hornets are not only soldiering on in their long-drawn-out coaching
6:19 PM ET NBA free agency doesn’t begin until June 30 at 6 p.m. ET, but the news is already rolling in from around the Association. Much of the early buzz is coming out of New York, where Kyrie Irving‘s contract status has pundits and fans speculating about the future of the Brooklyn Nets‘ star
Jun 16, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) shoots the ball against Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) in game six of the 2022 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports The Golden State Warriors are NBA Champions. Time to gear up. by Nathan Cunningham The
Purdue guard Jaden Ivey shakes hands with Iowa forward Keegan Murray after a game Jan. 27, 2022, at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa. 220127 Purdue Iowa Mbb 044 Jpg Jaden Ivey, Keegan Murray NBA Draft rumors 2022: 5 targets for the Golden State Warriors by Rucker Haringey NBA Draft rumors are flying but things
9:13 AM ET LA Clippers forward Nicolas Batum will decline his $3.3 million player option and become a free agent, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. There’s expected to be mutual interest with the Clippers and Batum on reaching a new deal in July, sources said. In his second season with the Clippers, Batum started 54
During his career, Stephen Jackson was vilified for his outspoken opinions. In retirement, he’s become a thought leader for the NBA community. In the mid-2000s, before the NBA was the neo-liberal corporate ally it is today, Stephen Jackson was public enemy number one. It’s an off juxtaposition, considering Jackson’s work in 2020 as a boots-on-the-ground
Jun 20, 2022; San Francisco, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guards Stephen Curry (left) and Damion Lee (right) during the Golden State Warriors championship parade in downtown San Francisco. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports How many challenges in NHL by Mark Powell Former Los Angeles Lakers players Alex Caruso and Kyle Kuzma were sick
7:47 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — It’s been two years since the Bay Area hosted a championship parade, but the city, nor the Warriors, forgot how to take in the moment. Stephen Curry hopped on top of a banister at a Muni train station stop and started hitting the sign that was next
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 16: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors raises the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy after defeating the Boston Celtics 103-90 in Game Six of the 2022 NBA Finals at TD Garden on June 16, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or
Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) US Open purse: Payout by player, finishing position by Cody Williams The worst thing the NBA ever did was give Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green another chance to bash all his haters. He won’t miss anyone. Since Thursday night, Green has spent nearly all
8:00 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN The NBA Finals wrapped up only a few days ago, but The Association’s calendar stops for no one. This week, the next generation of players will be welcomed into the league when the Orlando Magic begin the 2022 NBA draft Thursday night at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. From there, free agency
CULVER CITY, CA – NOVEMBER 10: Vanessa Laine Bryant (L) and Kobe Bryant attend the 2018 Baby2Baby Gala Presented by Paul Mitchell at 3LABS on November 10, 2018 in Culver City, California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Baby2Baby) Deshaun Watson update: Texas law-enforcement officer shoots down idea Browns QB was ‘exonerated’ by Scott Rogust
4:21 PM ET PRACTICE BEFORE GAME 2 of the NBA Finals had not begun yet but rookies Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody took a moment on the Golden State Warriors bench to soak up the rare atmosphere inside Chase Center. Everywhere their young eyes turned, there was a not-so-subtle reminder of exactly where they were.
Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports The Warriors rebuilt a championship roster while simultaneously setting the table for the future. But some players might not be around for all of it. The Warriors walked an incredibly fine line this season, getting healthy and surrounding their core with enough complementary talent to win their fourth ring. And
4:44 PM ET Associated Press In a couple of weeks, Bradley Beal‘s future might look a lot clearer. At this point, the Washington Wizards star isn’t tipping his hand. When asked Saturday about how he expects the start of free agency to go, he replied: “Crazy. probably — like it always is.” When asked how
Jun 16, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) and guard Klay Thompson (11) celebrate after beating the Boston Celtics in game six of the 2022 NBA Finals to win the NBA Championship at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports Chase Center erupting as Warriors win NBA Finals will
Thirty years ago this week, the Philadelphia 76ers traded Charles Barkley to the Phoenix Suns. How would things have changed if they never made that trade? Regardless of whether the Warriors win the Finals — as I write this, they are a game away — I do not care how this series defines Stephen Curry’s
Former Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Chris Jent could reunite with LeBron James, as Darvin Harm finalizes his Los Angeles Lakers coaching staff. As new Los Angeles Lakers head coach Darvin Ham rounds out his coaching staff, one former Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Chris Jent could be reuiniting with LeBron James. Lakers insider Brad Turner reported Jent and former NBA
11:31 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN Denver Nuggets forward Jeff Green has exercised his $4.5 million player option for the 2022-23 season, sources told ESPN. Green had until Monday to decide whether to opt into the deal, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks. Green, who will turn 36 in August, averaged 10.3 points in 75 games (63
Bill Russell believes the Boston Celtics can raise championship banner No. 18 next season. After falling to the Golden State Warriors in six games, Bill Russell is not giving up hope when it comes to his beloved Boston Celtics raising championship banner No. 18 next year. Boston was certainly battle-tested this season. The Celtics won playoff series over
8:26 PM ET The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to hire Atlanta Hawks assistant Chris Jent as Darvin Ham’s top assistant coach on his staff, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Ham, a first-time head coach, made Jent a priority and recruited him hard after getting the Lakers job, sources told Wojnarowski. Ham and Jent coached
Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports NBA trade rumors: 76ers are shopping everyone but Joel Embiid, James Harden ahead of NBA Draft by John Buhler OG Anunoby’s name has been coming up in NBA trade rumors but the Toronto Raptors seem to know exactly how much leverage they have. OG Anunoby’s name was a surprise to see
The Oklahoma City Thunder flipped one of their 2022 first-round picks for a future first-rounder in a trade with the Denver Nuggets. Since Sam Presti became the general manager of the Oklahoma City Thunder, he has accrued tons of first-round picks in future NBA Drafts. This year, the Thunder held three first-rounders, which included Nos.
Gary Payton II, Golden State Warriors. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) Watch: Jose Ramirez trolls Freddie Freeman hard while mic’d up by John Buhler Gary Payton could not be prouder his son is an NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors. Make that one NBA championship apiece now between Gary Payton and his son, Gary Payton
8:18 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — Amid the champagne showers that drenched Golden State’s locker room in the TD Garden, Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins hopped on Instagram Live to share the celebration with their followers. In the livestream, Poole looked at Wiggins and proclaimed, “You’re going to get a bag.” An uncontrollable
As the Boston Celtics seem to be forever chasing elusive banner No. 18, the Los Angeles Lakers are having the time of their lives reveling in their arch rival’s latest postseason disappointment. For the time being, the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers remain tied at 17 league championships apiece. Yes, five of the Lakers’ 17 NBA
Golden State Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson bailing on Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Hornets speaks volumes about their basketball organization. Days after the Golden State Warriors won the 2022 NBA Finals, assistant coach Kenny Atkinson decided to leave Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Hornets at the altar in embarrassing fashion. This would have been Atkinson’s second stab
3:39 PM ET Kenny Atkinson has decided he won’t become the Charlotte Hornets‘ head coach and instead will remain with the Golden State Warriors as the top assistant, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Atkinson was offered the job during the NBA Finals, but after further conversations Atkinson was led to believe it would be best
The Utah Jazz unveiled its new uniforms, and ugly doesn’t begin to define them. Whoever gave the Utah Jazz the audacity to pick this uniform combination must reevaluate their career. On Friday, the Jazz posted their new jerseys, and only one of them is remotely okay to look at as the rest look out of
2:30 PM ET One day after Stephen Curry added a fourth NBA title and first Finals MVP Award to his illustrious résumé, his alma mater, Davidson, announced that the Golden State Warriors star would have his number retired by the school at an August ceremony. Davidson athletic director Chris Clunie said Friday that Curry’s No.
Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports Aaron Judge passing on Home Run Derby is a diss to fans by John Buhler Jerami Grant has been included in plenty of NBA trade rumors over the past year. It sounds like he might actually be on the move this offseason. Jerami Grant has blossomed over his two seasons in
Timberwolves star Patrick Beverley jumped on the Fake Klay Thompson story with an offer to play for Minnesota next season. If you haven’t heard of the Fake Klay saga, strap in because it’s wild. YouTuber Dawson Gurley shares a striking resemblance to Warriors star Klay Thompson. He put it to good use by sneaking walking
Roy Jones Jr., a dual Russian citizen, is looking out for Brittney Griner as he attempts to get her home. Legendary fighter Roy Jones Jr. is trying to get WNBA superstar Brittney Griner home from Russia after being detained for cannabis four months ago. Jones Jr. is a dual Russian citizen, and according to a
8:00 AM ET The Golden State Warriors are the 2022 NBA champions, Stephen Curry has his long-awaited Finals MVP award and the Warriors’ big three of Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green tallied title No. 4. OK, what’s next? After battling in the Finals, where do the Warriors and Boston Celtics check in for the
Kevin Durant responds to the Golden State Warriors winning an NBA Finals without him. With the Golden State Warriors beating the Boston Celtics on Thursday night, Kevin Durant has to deal with the fact he now has two fewer rings than Steph Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson. The noted NBA wanderer decided to leave basketball paradise to
Draymond Green is the king of trolling and wasted no time roasting the Celtics after the Warriors’ NBA Finals win. If there was a perfect way to troll the Boston Celtics, Draymond Green found it after he and the Golden State Warriors beat them on Thursday night. He wore a shirt with the Boston championships
9:00 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN BOSTON — With 63 seconds remaining in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka, his team trailing by 11, waved the white flag and replaced all five of his starters. Jayson Tatum, after slowly trudging off the court, exchanged greetings with Boston players and coaches, untucked
The Philadelphia 76ers are looking to reshape their entire roster ahead of the 2022 NBA Draft, seemingly making everyone but Joel Embiid and James Harden available for trade this summer. Good for the Philadelphia 76ers admitting they are not winning an NBA Finals with they way their roster is currently constructed. With the 2022 NBA Draft less than
Jimmy Butler nearly carried the Heat to a victory over the Celtics in Game 7 but his late three-point attempt fell short. He is standing by that shot. There are plenty of what-ifs for the Miami Heat coming out of Sunday’s Game 7 loss at home to the Miami had finally made it a one-possession
Kyle Lowry considers his first season with the Miami Heat a “waste of a year” because they didn’t make it to the NBA Finals. Getting to the Eastern Conference Finals wasn’t good enough for Kyle Lowry. He won’t be happy until he’s playing in the NBA Finals again. The Heat guard said as much after
Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry. (Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports) World’s foremost hater Skip Bayless refuses to give Steph Curry credit for title by Savannah Leigh Steph Curry silenced his critics by leading the Golden State Warriors to the NBA Championship and then winning the NBA Finals MVP. Stephen Curry has been doubted and underestimated
11:43 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN BOSTON — For the fourth time in eight years, the Golden State Warriors have been crowned champions, as they eliminated the Celtics 103-90 on Thursday night in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. The Warriors won their first title since 2018 and became the first team to go from the
Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports NL MVP Power Rankings: Paul Goldschmidt vs Manny Machado and more by Drew Koch Riding high after turning Christian Wood into the No. 26 pick, NBA trade rumors have the Houston Rockets looking to pick up another pick. The Houston Rockets picked up the No. 26 pick in the 2022 NBA
NFL free agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. joined up with Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant to partake in Ja’s summer offseason party. Ja Morant’s Instagram timeline portrays a polished NBA lifestyle: there’s photos with the family, a few stylish photos with friends during a night out, and plenty of posts proving Ja is putting
Leave it up to NBA Twitter to roast Kevin Durant after Golden State won a title without him on the team. The internet usually is undefeated after incredible championship games like the one we saw on Thursday when the Golden State Warriors beat Boston, and tonight’s biggest victim was Kevin Durant. Fans and various media
1:00 AM ET Stephen Curry didn’t know whether to laugh or cry when the seconds ticked down at TD Garden in Boston on Thursday night. He appeared to be ecstatic — broad smile, giddy — a natural reaction to winning a fourth NBA championship. Yet in an instant, Curry sank to the floor with two
Former Boston Celtics player Isaiah Thomas called out the Celts for urging Robert Williams III to play through injury during the NBA Finals. Celtics fans still miss Isaiah Thomas, but Thomas is confident that the Celts want nothing to do with him. Aside from the fact that they could have called him up on a
Los Angeles Lakers fans have to be pure facepalm after hearing Anthony Davis’ comment about how seriously he is taking this NBA offseason. The Los Angeles Lakers need to count on Anthony Davis, but the dude doesn’t want to shoot a basketball during the summer months. It may have been taken out of context, but
Shaq brings love to his hometown of Newark, NJ by teaming up with IcyHot to refurbish local basketball courts through his Comebaq Courts program. Only the biggest NBA legends are known mononymously, which is why Newark native Shaquille O’Neal is known throughout the world simply as “Shaq.” Shaq’s name brings a gravitas to all that he
When reflecting on his days in the league, Shaq looks at today’s game and says there’s “too much crying and boohooing” about NBA refs these days. There’s a generational battle that’s constantly being waged in today’s game: the notion that better basketball was played in the 1990s, and today’s game is soft in comparison. To
4:49 PM ET Jamal CollierESPN After wrapping up a 24-hour shift as a firefighter in Toledo, Ohio, this past weekend, Myles Copeland went to New York to suit up for his other job, a player for Toledo Glass City of The Basketball League, for a playoff game against the Jamestown Jackals. But his two worlds
Mar 6, 2022; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights forward Ron Harper Jr. (24) on the court before the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Jersey Mike’s Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly looking to trade into the second round of the draft. Who could
The Mavericks have long needed to get more help around Luka Doncic and they made a trade to do just that, landing Christian Wood from the Rockets. Watching the Dallas Mavericks in the 2022 NBA Playoffs, the outcry from fans was clear: Luka Doncic needs more help for this team to truly contend. Sure, the
5:32 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN BOSTON — Three times in this year’s NBA playoffs, the Boston Celtics have found themselves one loss away from going home for the summer. Three times in these playoffs, the Celtics have found a way to extend their season — including two victories on the road. So, as Boston prepares
Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports The Indiana Pacers appear to be holding onto Myles Turner. But he could fetch a high price on the trade market and these teams could build a compelling offer. The Indiana Pacers dramatically shook up their core at the trade deadline, sending Domantas Sabonis to the Sacramento Kings for Tyrese Haliburton.
Here’s all the information you need to catch the 2022 NBA Draft, including live stream information for how to watch. The NBA Draft is drawing near, putting a nice finishing touch on an excellent 2022 season. The world’s best collegiate and international players will collectively be holding their breaths waiting for their names to be
9:23 PM ET Tim MacMahon Close ESPN Staff Writer Joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009 Covers the Dallas Cowboys and Dallas Mavericks Appears regularly on ESPN Dallas 103.3 FM Adrian Wojnarowski Close Senior NBA Insider Host of The Woj Pod Joined ESPN in 2017 The Dallas Mavericks are acquiring center/power forward Christian Wood from the Houston
Andrew Wiggins has become an invaluable two-way wing for the Warriors, and a career night in Game 5 brought Golden State within one game of another NBA title. Given how much went wrong in Game 5, the Warriors might almost consider themselves fortunate to have a 3-2 lead in the Finals. After dominating third quarters
Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown gave the Golden State Warriors some bulletin-board material, whether he meant to or not. I’ll start with the obvious — nothing Brown said in his comments was wrong. The Celtics should not be scared of the Warriors entering a critical, must-win Game 6 at home. Should they lose, they lose
5:13 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN BOSTON — The Golden State Warriors find themselves in a position they’ve been in many times before: one win away from an NBA Title. Playing in the NBA Finals for the sixth time in the last eight years, there is a dose of cautious optimism flowing through the Warriors’ locker
Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images NFL rumors: Panthers feeling ‘urgency’ with Baker Mayfield trade by John Buhler The Klay Thompson doppleganger has been entertaining Warriors fans since he first showed up at a game in 2017. He’s also made his last appearance. Klay Thompson look-alike, Dawson Gurley, joined the popular culture before Game 5
Nothing says “sore loser” or “talking head” like groaning about a team doing what is allowed by the rules. If you don’t like what the Golden State Warriors are spending, fine — but don’t be mad when they win by investing in their own. The Golden State Warriors are currently over $71 million over the
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports Kenny Pickett mini camp reviews aren’t what Steelers fans want to hear by Mark Powell Paul Pierce has been enjoying various adventures since his retirement from the NBA. His latest one appears to have him in a big financial hole. Paul Pierce officially retired at the end of the 2016-17 NBA
6:44 PM ET Associated Press ATLANTA — Hawks guard Bogdan Bogdanovic is recovering from surgery on his right patella tendon after being hampered by knee inflammation this past season. The Hawks announced Tuesday that Bogdanovic is expected to make a full recovery before the start of the 2022-23 season. Bogdanovic missed 19 games this past
Mar 14, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Zach LaVine (8), center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) and guard Andrew Wiggins (22) against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Suns defeated the Timberwolves 107-104. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Has Rory McIlroy rekindled his love to dominate golf? by Savannah Leigh
The Golden State Warriors will be on the road, looking to finish off the Boston Celtics in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. Here’s everything you need to watch. Steph Curry had one of the worst games of his career, not making a single 3-point basket in a postseason game for the first time ever.
5:34 PM ET A longtime Phoenix Suns employee resigned from the team last month, alleging she became the target of bullying and retaliation by superiors after raising concerns about gender equity and misconduct within the organization, documents obtained by ESPN show. Melissa Fender Panagiotakopoulos, who began working for the Suns in August 2007, sent a
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports The future of Zach LaVine is the most important issue the Bulls need to address this offseason but nailing their first-round pick could be a big boost. The Bulls have assembled a solid roster under relatively new GM Arturas Karnisovas that should be perennial playoff participants in the Eastern Conference. The
The Atlanta Hawks are a potential trade destination for Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert. If Utah Jazz star center Rudy Gobert is dealt this offseason, it might be to the Atlanta Hawks. Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report reported “the Hawks could be the most natural Gobert trade partner for the Utah Jazz.” Fischer’s reporting suggests that
8:00 AM ET SAN FRANCISCO — The highlights of the Stephen Curry 3-pointers, Robert Williams’ blocked shots and, now, Andrew Wiggins‘ dunks, continue to run as the premier moments in the 2022 NBA Finals. Celtics coach Ime Udoka keeps trying to tell everyone they’re missing the point. The Golden State Warriors are one win from
One of the strangest subplots of this NBA Playoffs has been the Mavericks bench being repeatedly fined. What is going on? On Sunday afternoon, the NBA announced that they were fining the Dallas Mavericks $100,000 for ‘violating league rules regarding bench decorum.’ This is the third time this postseason the team has been tagged for
Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins and forward Draymond Green. (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) Ozzie Albies injury: Braves win streak takes concerning turn by Alicia de Artola Golden State is one win away from the NBA Championship thanks to a standout performance from Andrew Wiggins in Game 5. Warriors fans loved it. Game 5 of
3:23 AM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — Andrew Wiggins has been waiting his entire career for a moment to shine on the NBA Finals stage. An eight-year veteran, he hadn’t yet had the opportunity. But now that he’s here, he is taking advantage. Wiggins led the Warriors to their 104-94 victory over the Boston
Regardless of who wins the NBA Finals, should the NBA MVP award go to Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry anyway? The 2022 NBA Finals is tied between the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics. With the series nearing its conclusion, the talk regarding who should win the NBA Finals MVP award will only increase.
Warriors guard Stephen Curry is a candidate for the NBA Finals MVP. (David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports) Watch: Weatherman takes merciless shot at Cowboys during 10-day forecast by Alicia de Artola Winning an NBA Finals MVP award despite losing the series is a bittersweet and rare feat. Who was the last player to pull it
12:12 AM ET SAN FRANCISCO — The NBA Finals allow for the slimmest margins of error. Opponents are too elite and opportunities too precious to squander in a seven-game series. For the Boston Celtics, sins of commission in Game 5 were too numerous to overcome a Golden State Warriors team with a championship pedigree on
The Atlanta Hawks are reportedly putting forward John Collins on the trading block once again. With the 2022 NBA Draft rapidly approaching, Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins’ name is coming up in trade rumors yet again. Though Collins has spent his entire professional career out of Wake Forest in Atlanta, in addition to getting the
David Banks-USA TODAY Sports Coby White is reportedly on the trading block. Who are some squads that could use the Chicago Bulls combo guard? As the NBA Finals wrap up this week, the eyes of the NBA world will turn to the 2022 NBA Draft. That event is fast approaching (Thursday, June 23) and even
Golden State Warriors point guard Gary Payton II proves yet again how dedicated he is to uplifting his teammates during the NBA Finals. When Gary Payton II made the Golden State roster against all odds, he said there was one thing he set out to do: ” stick around — and make an impact.” In a
4:45 PM ET Associated Press SAN FRANCISCO — NBA commissioner Adam Silver canceled plans to attend Game 5 of the NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics on Monday night because of the league’s health and safety protocols. Silver typically attends all Finals games. The league did not say if Silver had
7:48 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — The Boston Celtics know that, once again, they failed to take advantage of securing home court by dropping Game 4 of the NBA Finals Friday night. But, as the series shifts back here to Chase Center for Game 5 Monday night with the series now turning into
Klay Thompson is going to extreme lengths to get ready for Game 5 of 2022 NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics. Water may be cleansing, but Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson was tempting fate with his bizarre training method ahead of Game 5. The Dubs may have taken back home-court advantage with
8:20 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — Klay Thompson is stressing about staying in the moment. After Sunday’s practice, the Golden State Warriors star barely even wanted to look ahead to Monday’s pivotal Game 5 of the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. Instead, he tried to stay locked in on what treatment needed
The Cavaliers are armed with an interesting nucleus of young talent, but they need to add another quality piece at No. 14 in this year’s NBA Draft. Cleveland’s front office nailed their first-round pick in last year’s draft when they secured the rights to big man Evan Mobley. The Cavaliers might find it more difficult
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The Golden State Warriors struggled again in Game 3 and find themselves in an NBA Finals hole that may be even deeper than it looks. They’ve only been outscored
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The NBA Finals MVP conversation held an unusually large share of the conversation before this series started, largely because of Steph Curry. The future Hall-of-Famer has helped lead the
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) NBA Draft Rumors: Eastern Conference team shows its Johnny Davis cards by Scott Rogust During the latest episode of UNINTERRUPTED’s “The Shop,” LeBron James said he would consider a media career after seeing the contract FOX gave Tom Brady. This year, the sports world saw
2:19 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN BOSTON — Jayson Tatum had a simple solution for the Boston Celtics to bounce back with a win in Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Monday night — he just needs to play better. “I mean, I give [the Golden State Warriors] credit,” Tatum said after Boston’s 107-97 loss
Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry joins countless NBA and WNBA athletes in calling on Russia to release Brittney Griner from unlawful detainment. It’s been 113 days now since Brittney Griner was wrongfully detained in Russia, and everyone from Dawn Staley to Breanna Stewart to Magic Johnson is calling on the U.S. government to bring
2:45 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson reiterated his desire to be with the organization, speaking Saturday at a local YMCA where he held a youth and basketball camp registration. Speaking to reporters, Williamson was asked if opening the camp was a sign he wanted to stay in New Orleans. “I
Jun 10, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) talks with head coach Steve Kerr during the first quarter of game four in the 2022 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics at the TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports Patriots: Mac Jones earns rave reviews from teammates ahead
NBA Draft Lottery. (Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports) Why isn’t Dana White at UFC 275? by Zain Bando According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Washington Wizards are exploring the idea of shopping their first-round draft pick. With the NBA Finals nearing its conclusion, that means the Draft is only a short time away. The 2022
The Charlotte Hornets have found their new head coach, and it is none other than Golden State Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson. After failing to clinch a playoff berth in the play-in tournament for the second year in a row, the Charlotte Hornets fired head coach James Borrego. That began what was a lengthy search for
8:00 AM ET The NBA playoffs are full of moments that can swing a series: a buzzer-beating 3-pointer, a late and-1 bucket or an alley-oop dunk in front of the home crowd. Or in some cases, it might be the blow of the referee’s whistle, as a late-game block/charge call or an overturned bucket could
MADISON, WISCONSIN – MARCH 06: Johnny Davis #1 of the Wisconsin Badgers reacts after hitting the first shot of the game during the first half of the game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Kohl Center on March 06, 2022 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) NBA Draft Rumors: Wizards shopping No. 10 pick?
Jun 10, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) shoots the ball against Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard (11) during the fourth quarter during game four of the 2022 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports Anthony Rizzo compares current New York Yankees to 2016 Cubs by
8:00 AM ET BOSTON — Steve Kerr has made a lot of high-pressure, large-stakes decisions during his NBA career. Like that afternoon in 1995 when he got fed up with Michael Jordan in a Chicago Bulls practice and made the choice to throw a forearm and ended up with a black eye. The Golden State
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports Our latest NBA Mock Draft is built around the latest NBA Draft rumors, with a handful of trades dramatically shaking up the first-round order. The NBA Draft is less than two weeks away and rumors are already swirling about teams looking to trade up or trade down, prioritizing short- and long-term
3:16 AM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN BOSTON — Stephen Curry isn’t one to show tons of emotion throughout the course of a game. But in the Golden State Warriors‘ 107-97 win over the Boston Celtics in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, Curry wore his heart on his sleeve all night. Late in the first quarter,
Draymond Green’s performance throughout the NBA Finals has been widely criticized. Even his mother has no clue what happened to him. The Golden State Warriors made it to the NBA Finals in 16 games through the tough Western Conference. Draymond Green played a role in them making it to the big game for the sixth
Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown and his teammates sport “We Are BG” shirts during the NBA Finals, calling attention to her wrongful detainment in Russia. While practicing for Game 2 of the NBA Finals, Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown wore a t-shirt emblazoned with the words “We Are BG”. He later explained to media why
11:50 PM ET The Golden State Warriors built a dynasty playing a beautiful brand of basketball predicated on movement, passing and creativity. Down 2-1 and desperate for a win on hostile ground in Boston’s TD Garden, the Warriors displayed precious little of that choreography, but managed to eke out a rugged 107-97 win to knot
According to NBA Draft rumors, Shaquille O’Neal‘s son, Shareef O’Neal, is getting a chance to work out for the Los Angeles Lakers. Hang around long enough and the names on an NBA roster will turn over. The players you watched get drafted will play out their careers and slide into retirement. And, for fans of
Utah Jazz big man Juan Hernangómez makes his acting debut in Adam Sandler’s “Hustle”, a Netflix film about an NBA scout who finds a gem in Spain’s Bo Cruz. NBA players have tried, and often failed, to transition to prominent acting roles. But the movies that center basketball and heart — whether it’s Space Jam
3:19 PM ET LeBron James, whose net worth was recently valuated north of $1 billion by Forbes, has made it known for years that he plans to own an NBA team when he is finished playing. Now that vision has a location. “I want a team in Vegas,” James said in a clip from the
Is the new Adam Sandler, Netflix movie, Hustle, based on a true story? by Amy Kaplan Which NBA stars are in the new Netflix movie, Hustle? The new Adam Sandler movie (yes, that Adam Sandler) is chock-full of NBA stars. So many, in fact, that you might not have even realized someone was a player
8:00 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN BOSTON — The moment Billy Donovan learned what kind of competitor Al Horford is remains as clear in his memory as if it happened this week — and not 20 years ago. “I’ll never forget it,” says Donovan, Horford’s coach at the University of Florida who is now in charge
Draymond Green is one of the key Golden State Warriors players, even without a high level of scoring. But his foul issues are limiting that level of impact. Has Boston figured out one of the most polarizing players in the NBA? Draymond Green is perhaps the quintessential “love him on your team, hate him when
Apr 7, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) looks on from the bench during the first quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports Dodgers pitcher Tyler Anderson drops F-bomb on hot mic after walking Jose Abreu by Scott Rogust In the
4:19 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN BOSTON — Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry is expected to play in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Friday. Curry’s status was up in the air after he suffered an injury late in the fourth quarter of Game 3 when Boston Celtics forward Al Horford rolled on Curry’s
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 08: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors looks on in the second quarter against the Boston Celtics during Game Three of the 2022 NBA Finals at TD Garden on June 08, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this
7:00 AM ET BOSTON — Klay Thompson has run the gamut of the NBA experience in his 11 years in the league. He’s seen the tremendous highs of winning three championships in four years and the lows of having to sit out more than two seasons due to injury. As the five-time All-Star assessed the
The Golden State Warriors complained that the hoop at TD Garden in warm-ups was too high. As it turns out, they were right. The Boston Celtics shocked the NBA world when they managed to win Game 1 of the 2022 NBA Finals by scoring 40 points in the fourth quarter. But, the Golden State Warriors
11:41 PM ET For all the celebration of skill and small ball in recent years, the NBA still rewards size and quickness at big moments. In the first Finals game in TD Garden since 2010, the Boston Celtics used their speed, length and physical superiority to bury the Golden State Warriors 116-100 in Game 3
9:03 PM ET Tim MacMahon Close ESPN Staff Writer Joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009 Covers the Dallas Cowboys and Dallas Mavericks Appears regularly on ESPN Dallas 103.3 FM Adrian Wojnarowski Close Senior NBA Insider Host of The Woj Pod Joined ESPN in 2017 The Utah Jazz have received permission to interview several assistant coaches in
Feb 25, 2022; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers guard Bryce McGowens (5) shoots over Iowa Hawkeyes forward Filip Rebraca (0) in the first half at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports Mining underrated talent is a great way for an NBA team to improve its fortunes. Here are five players who can
Memphis Grizzles point guard Ja Morant and Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges are battling to see who can conduct the biggest offseason offense. During a boisterous house party on June 4, Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant made a bold declaration: “I’m the only one who will show you how I really live.” Ever the
8:00 AM ET After two vastly different NBA Finals games at Chase Center, the series shifts to TD Garden, where the host Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors each look to grab control. For the Celtics, two keys have emerged through the first two games: Jayson Tatum walking the line between scorer and facilitator, and
After Russell Westbrook’s dismal 2021-22 season, people are undermining his NBA legacy. New Lakers coach Darvin Ham is hoping for a turnaround this year. Unsurprisingly, it all started with a wild, off-the-cuff claim by Colin Cowherd. Cowherd wanted to distinguish Draymond Green as the ever-helpful teammate, but in doing so, he made sure to drag
6:30 AM ET Ramona Shelburne Close ESPN Senior Writer Senior writer for ESPN.com Spent seven years at the Los Angeles Daily News Elizabeth Merrill Close ESPN Senior Writer Elizabeth Merrill is a senior writer for ESPN.com and ESPN The Magazine. She previously wrote for The Kansas City Star and The Omaha World-Herald. JON SCHEYER HAS
4:20 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN Draymond Green entered Game 2 of the NBA Finals with a very clear mindset: bring force. “I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I’m going on about my summer and we lost the NBA Finals because we couldn’t meet force with force,” Green said ahead of practice in
1:51 PM ET Dave McMenamin Close ESPN Staff Writer Lakers and NBA reporter for ESPN. Covered the Lakers and NBA for ESPNLosAngeles.com from 2009-14, the Cavaliers from 2014-18 for ESPN.com and the NBA for NBA.com from 2005-09. Adrian Wojnarowski Close Senior NBA Insider Host of The Woj Pod Joined ESPN in 2017 LOS ANGELES —
Jimmy Butler became the most potent player in the NBA playoffs, although it wasn’t enough in the end. What did we learn from his postseason transformation? The Miami Heat are not advancing to the NBA Finals. Jimmy Butler did not win the inaugural Eastern Conference Finals MVP Award, but no one came out of the
The Miami Heat were one win away from reaching the NBA Finals for the second time in three years. Here are three players who will not be back for next season. The Miami Heat finished the regular-season with the best record in the entire Eastern Conference. They got through the Atlanta Hawks and the Philadelphia
7:13 PM ET Associated Press SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Jazz face an unexpected search for a new coach. Utah was prepared to enter next season with Quin Snyder at the helm until the head coach unexpectedly stepped down after eight seasons. The two sides had recently discussed an extension with Snyder, who still
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 02: A general view during player introductions prior to Game One of the 2022 NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics at Chase Center on June 02, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this
4:39 PM ET EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Darvin Ham was introduced as the Los Angeles Lakers‘ new coach Monday, with point guard Russell Westbrook standing off to the side in a public show of support for the hiring. And Ham reciprocated that support right back to Westbrook, after a tumultuous first season in Los Angeles
Quin Snyder, Utah Jazz. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) Celtics warm-up shirts pack a big message ahead of Game 2 by Amy Kaplan Quin Snyder stepping down as Utah Jazz coach. According to ESPN, Quin Snyder is “planning” on stepping down as coach of the Utah Jazz. Utah Jazz coach Quin Snyder is planning to
8:00 AM ET SAN FRANCISCO — Draymond Green faced the marrow-level dread of going down two games to none in the NBA Finals by arriving for Sunday’s Game 2 determined to be annoying as hell for as long as it took. Over the course of the contest’s 48 minutes, he argued with the officials —
11:58 PM ET SAN FRANCISCO — Stephen Curry, who said he lost sleep after the Golden State Warriors‘ Game 1 collapse, can toss and turn less when he goes to bed Sunday night following the Warriors’ 107-88 win in Game 2 of the 2022 NBA Finals. Coming off a 34-point outing in Game 1, Curry
5:50 PM ET Utah Jazz coach Quin Snyder has resigned after eight seasons with the franchise, the team announced Sunday. Jazz ownership and management spent several weeks trying to convince Snyder to return as coach — even offering a contract extension — but he simply decided that his time had come to step away from
8:13 AM ET Not one uniformed member of the Boston Celtics had played in an NBA Finals game before Game 1 on Thursday night. Much was made of this, partly because of the vast Finals experience of the Golden State Warriors but mostly because storylines at this stage must be truffle hunted until no soil
The Golden State Warriors’ latest injury update should scare the Boston Celtics ahead of the NBA Finals. Golden State has fought through injuries this season, but the latest injury update should cause the Celtics’ to shake in their sneakers. The Warriors will list Gary Payton II, Andre Iguodala and Otto Porter Jr. as questionable for Game
7:25 PM ET SAN FRANCISCO — Stephen Curry has seen the Golden State Warriors bounce back before multiple times this season and has confidence they will do it again in Sunday’s Game 2 of the NBA Finals. Citing how the Warriors rebounded from their 39-point loss in Game 5 at the Memphis Grizzlies in the
No one was happier to see the Boston Celtics reach the NBA Finals than actress Nia Long, who is the fiancee of head coach Ime Udoka. It was a long journey for the Boston Celtics since they lost Game 7 of the 2010 NBA Finals to the Los Angeles Lakers. They have not been able
7:28 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum said he isn’t spending time worrying about his 3-for-17 shooting performance in Game 1, saying it’s not the first time he’s had a bad game and that he’s confident he’ll bounce back in Game 2. “Once you’ve done something before, you know
Smart GMs mine the NBA Draft for potential All-Stars. These five prospects fit the bill in this year’s class of talented prospects. Free agency is important to NBA front offices but most teams need to grow their own All-Stars via the draft. That’s why the best league decision-makers are often tempted to take big swings
2:36 AM ET SAN FRANCISCO — Not long after the Golden State Warriors‘ fourth-quarter meltdown to drop a rare Game 1 in the coach Steve Kerr era, a relaxed Draymond Green began setting the tone for the team entering Game 2. “It’s fine,” Green said after the Boston Celtics stunned the Warriors 120-108. “You get
After being off NBA rosters for more than a decade, 38-year-old NBA veteran Delonte West is heading back to the court as a part of The Big3 draft. The G League provides those on the cusp of the NBA the opportunity to play up for a chance in the league, which can sometimes give players
May 26, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) and guard Stephen Curry (right) hug after winning game five of the 2022 western conference finals against the Dallas Mavericks at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports Kirby Smart won’t be leaving Georgia football for a long, long
All things eventually fade to black. Which squad is best prepared to eventually become the next NBA dynasty when the Golden State Warriors “Big Three” leaves “The Arena”? After a two-year hiatus, the Golden State Warriors have returned to where they surely believe they belong — the top of the NBA mountain, once again preparing
1:48 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — After yet another ugly third quarter in a playoffs full of them for the Boston Celtics, it looked to all the world like the Golden State Warriors were on their way to claiming Game 1 of the NBA Finals at Chase Center on Thursday night. But then
The Golden State Warriors have so much more NBA Finals experience over the Boston Celtics. With the 2022 NBA Finals set to tip off Thursday night in San Francisco, it should be noted that the Golden State Warriors have infinitely more championship experience over the Boston Celtics. Although Boston will be playing in its 22nd NBA
Luke Walton will be joining J.B. Bickerstaff’s Cleveland Cavaliers staff as an assistant coach. Former Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings head coach Luke Walton will work alongside J.B. Bickerstaff as the newest addition to the Cleveland Cavaliers coaching staff. Walton is best known for his playing career, as well as his coaching career, in Los Angeles.
Led by Al Horford’s two-way versatility, the Celtics blitzed Golden State in the fourth quarter to steal Game 1. Plus, more observations from the opener of the NBA Finals. The NBA Finals offered hope of change from the lopsided contests that have dominated the playoffs, and Game 1 delivered with a crisp, tightly contested game
4:06 PM ET Orlando Magic executive Matt Lloyd has agreed to become senior vice president of basketball operations for the Minnesota Timberwolves, sources told ESPN on Friday. Lloyd, who spent a decade with Orlando as assistant general manager and VP of basketball operations, is the first significant hire by Timberwolves’ president of basketball operations Tim
Iowa Hawkeyes forward Keegan Murray (15) rests during the first half of the Big Ten championship title game Sunday, March 13, 2022, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Iowa won, 75-66.Iowa Hawkeyes Versus Purdue Boilermakers In Big Ten Men S Championship Title Game On Sunday March 13 2022 At Gainbridge Fieldhouse In Indianapolis Hype is a
Welcome back to Above the Break. This week we’re looking at the Sun vs. Aces matchup, the Wings rotation and NaLyssa Smith beginning to flex her range. The Aces finally lost another game on Thursday. The Liberty finally won another game on Wednesday, giving us three teams that now sit at two wins. It’s early,
8:00 AM ET SAN FRANCISCO — A year ago, Boston Celtics owners Wyc Grousbeck and Steve Pagliuca executed an audacious move: They made their successful coach a rookie team president and replaced him with a rookie coach. Had anyone on the dais the day the move to elevate Brad Stevens was formalized — June 2,
Jimmy Butler seems simultaneously driven by vibes and bottom-line results. How do we reconcile his impeccable intensity with his love for life? Jimmy Butler will drop 40 points. He will let fly. It will rain. A rivulet will become a torrent. He will flood the court. But the most devastating thing about Jimmy Butler is
11:58 PM ET SAN FRANCISCO — Like two heavyweights feeling each other out in the opening round of a championship bout, the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics opened the 2022 NBA Finals, with the Celtics striking the first blow with a 120-108 comeback victory. The Celtics won Game 1 with a scintillating 17-0 run
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith made a bold prediction about how many more NBA titles the Golden State Warriors and Steph Curry will win in the future. The 2022 NBA Finals officially begins on Thursday, June 2, with the Boston Celtics taking on the Golden State Warriors. Even though the Warriors have missed the playoffs the
Kyrie Irving created plenty of extra challenges for the Brooklyn Nets last season. And now they may be unwilling to sign him to a long-term extension. There may not be a trickier or more impactful decision this offseason than what the Brooklyn Nets do with Kyrie Irving. His refusal to get vaccinated limited him to
Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers. (Photo by Rick Osentoski/Getty Images) Watch: Willson Contreras calming down Christopher Morel before his walk-off is everything (Video) by Josh Hill New Cleveland Cavaliers logos have been leaked online and we so have to see them right now! The Cleveland Cavaliers have new logos that have been leaked and are out there
3:35 PM ET Nike founder Phil Knight and Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Alan Smolinisky have delivered a written offer of more than $2 billion to purchase Portland Trail Blazers and are in serious talks to acquire the team, sources told ESPN on Thursday. Knight and Smolinisky have been engaged in discussions with the Paul Allen
The Brooklyn Nets believe the Philadelphia 76ers will be worse next year than this past season. By deferring the Philadelphia 76ers‘ 2022 first-round pick from the James Harden–Ben Simmons trade to 2023, the Brooklyn Nets are telling everyone to short the 76ers next NBA season. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski informed everyone of the Nets’ intentions of the pick
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. Much has been made of the way the Warriors and Celtics NBA Finals matchup represents a high-water mark for a more traditional mode of team-building. For the past decade
The Celtics and the Warriors show that you don’t have to spend multiple years tanking to build a winner through the draft. With the Boston Celtics facing the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals, there are stakes at play for both franchises. A Warriors win would mean four titles in eight seasons, something only
COVID is making things challenging for ESPN to broadcast Game 1 of the 2022 NBA Finals. ESPN will be short-handed in the broadcast booth ahead of Game 1 of the 2022 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night. The New York Post reported on Thursday analyst Jeff Van Gundy and
9:45 AM ET The betting public is siding with the Golden State Warriors over the Boston Celtics as the NBA Finals tips off Thursday. The Warriors were -150 favorites to capture the championship as of Thursday morning and have attracted the majority of bets to win the best-of-seven series at most sportsbooks. At online sportsbook
Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young opens up about the importance of mental health and how he uplifts communities through the power of positivity. Professional athletes exist in the public eye like no other. They become heroes for their athletic prowess; revered for being able to do what few humans can. Michael could fly. Kobe was
The Atlanta Dream defense is making WNBA history since 2015, and the common denominator is none other than former WNBA guard Tanisha Wright. Wherever Tanisha Wright goes, historic defenses seem to follow. That’s not just because Wright helped Seattle Storm win their second WNBA Championship in 2010, or because Wright developed the Las Vegas Aces
6:58 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — The Boston Celtics have been managing injuries to both Marcus Smart and Robert Williams for most of the last few weeks. But, on the eve of the NBA Finals, both players said they were ready to go for the start of the league’s championship round against the
The NBA Finals ticket prices have sky rocketed as the needle moves because these two fanbases will pay for it. For anyone that wants to attend the NBA Finals, better get ready to fork out some serious cash because tickets are not cheap. These ticket prices are absurd because the cheapest one on the secondary
Marcus Smart may have inadvertently given the Golden State Warriors some bulletin-board material ahead of their 2022 NBA Finals matchup vs. his Boston Celtics. With the Golden State Warriors squaring off with the Boston Celtics in the 2022 NBA Finals, Boston guard Marcus Smart offered an interesting take about what could have been in 2018… During an episode of
5:33 PM ET Among the assets gathered in the James Harden blockbuster trade, the Brooklyn Nets are deferring acquisition of the Philadelphia 76ers‘ 2022 first-round pick at No. 23 to the 2023 NBA draft, sources told ESPN. Brooklyn informed the league office of the team’s decision on Wednesday, hours ahead of a midnight deadline, sources
The NBA Finals between the Warriors and Celtics will be a chess match at both ends of the floor. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare. The differences between the Warriors and Celtics — structurally, stylistically and narratively — are easy to spot, and in many ways, they frame the story of this year’s
8:00 AM ET Which team will be this year’s NBA champion? The 2022 Finals features the league’s top two defenses throughout the regular season, but the Golden State Warriors–Boston Celtics clash will focus on some of the most dangerous offensive threats in the game. Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, their Splash Brothers partnership whole again
Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports According to recent rumors, the Knicks are very interested in Jaden Ivey. How could they trade up to actually land him in the NBA Draft? The New York Knicks are rumored to be looking for a point guard upgrade this offseason. While Donovan Mitchell and Jalen Brunson are spicier and more
Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images= NBA trade season is on the horizon. Could a league-altering transaction occur this offseason involving OG Anunoby and the Raptors? Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report said in his latest NBA offseason intel piece that OG Anunoby of the Toronto Raptors grew “… dissatisfied at times… ” with his role in
The brilliant new book Cover Story by Alex Wong, tells the history of the NBA through its most iconic magazine covers at SLAM, Sports Illustrated and more. Alex Wong has been one of the most creative NBA writers for years, continually coming up with features on topics that no one else would have thought of.
11:34 PM ET Adrian Wojnarowski Close Senior NBA Insider Host of The Woj Pod Joined ESPN in 2017 Tim MacMahon Close ESPN Staff Writer Joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009 Covers the Dallas Cowboys and Dallas Mavericks Appears regularly on ESPN Dallas 103.3 FM After weeks of conversations with ownership and management, Utah Jazz coach Quin
Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant disagreed with Draymond Green’s take that Steph Curry not winning Finals MVP was due to being double-teamed. The Golden State Warriors are back in the NBA Finals for the first time since 2019. They had made it to the Finals six times in the past eight years, winning three Larry
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. A lot has been made, at least in some corners of social media, of the challenging paths the Warriors and Celtics have taken to the NBA Finals, at least
2:19 PM ET Golden State’s Stephen Curry has never won an NBA Finals MVP award, but oddsmakers believe this is his year. Curry is the consensus favorite to be named MVP of the Finals between the Warriors and Boston Celtics at sportsbooks around the nation. He’s the even-money favorite at Caesars Sportsbook. Boston’s Jayson Tatum
Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Lakers. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) The Whiteboard: Jayson Tatum, Steph Curry and the hardest championship paths by Ian Levy Expect for Russell Westbrook to suit up again for the Los Angeles Lakers next NBA season. All signs are pointing towards Russell Westbrook exercising his $47 million player option to remain with the
11:40 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN The Philadelphia 76ers announced Tuesday morning that Joel Embiid spent his Memorial Day undergoing surgery to repair the sprained right thumb he injured during Philadelphia’s first-round playoff series, and that he also had a procedure done to repair an injury to his left index finger. Neither issue is supposed to
Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) NFL world mourns the loss of Arizona Cardinals cornerback Jeff Gladney by John Buhler Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum shared the text message he sent Kobe Bryant before Game 7. Jayson Tatum had Kobe Bryant on his mind ahead of the Celtics’ win-or-go-home Game 7 on Sunday
11:42 PM ET The Golden State Warriors are the favorites in the NBA Finals over a Boston Celtics team looking to make underdog history. Caesars Sportsbook installed the Warriors as -160 favorites over the Celtics (+140) in an intriguing best-of-seven series that tips off Thursday in San Francisco. Golden State opened as a 3-point favorite
The 2022 NBA Finals will be contested between the teams that Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving left in the summer of 2019. The 2022 NBA Finals is now set after Sunday night. The Boston Celtics defeated the Miami Heat 100-96 in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals to advance to the NBA Finals. Their
Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images Mets: A realistic trade offer for Red Sox star JD Martinez by Mark Powell Chris Paul‘s reputation took another hit this season after the No. 1-seed Phoenix Suns were upset in the playoffs. But Trae Young says he’s still one of the greatest. It’s been a rough few weeks for
Deandre Ayton, Phoenix Suns. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) MLB rumors: 5 favorites to trade for Reds pitcher Luis Castillo by Tim Boyle Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton enters this NBA offseason as a restricted free agent. There is a chance Deandre Ayton has played his final game in a Phoenix Suns uniform. Because the Suns did
Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jean Segura s and Boston Celtics center Al Horford have both struggled to see the postseason in their lengthy careers. There are a few things that Jean Segura and Al Horford have in common. For one, the two elite athletes both call the Dominican Republic home: Horford is from Puerto Plata; Segura
2:05 AM ET MIAMI — As the Miami Heat digest a “heartbreaking” 100-96 loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals, Erik Spoelstra and his staff believe that a momentum-changing overturned call in the third quarter will provide a “case study” for the NBA as far as replay reviews go
Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) Watch: Celtics make it rain on head coach Ime Udoka before he delivers rousing speech by Aryanna Prasad Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum became the first player to take home the Larry Bird award. With the Boston Celtics punching their ticket to the NBA Finals, their
8:00 AM ET After three rounds of upsets, thrillers, blowouts and everything in between, the NBA Finals are here — and it’s a series that will pin some familiar faces against a group with zero experience on the league’s biggest stage. The Golden State Warriors, led by three-time champions Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Klay
11:22 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN MIAMI — Nothing about this Boston Celtics season has been easy. So, it stands to reason, making it to the NBA Finals wouldn’t be, either. But, at the end of a grueling seven-game series in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat, that is exactly where the Celtics have
Scott Foster, NBA. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) Tony La Russa uses decades-old reference to inspire hope in White Sox offense by John Buhler The NBA has all the faith in the world in Scott Foster calling a great Game 7 between the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat to decide the 2022 Eastern Conference Finals.
5:11 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — The Golden State Warriors have the gift of time as they head into the NBA Finals. With them wrapping up their Western Conference Finals series against the Dallas Mavericks in five games, the Warriors will have exactly one week of rest before Game 1 of the Finals.
The Golden State Warriors won the Western Conference Finals in five games over the Mavericks on Thursday night. Fans let Charles Barkley hear it. Barkley had a feud with Golden State basketball fans this series, starting before Game 1 when he picked the Mavs to win the series. That only intensified later in the series,
8:00 AM ET After the many ups and downs of the 2022 Eastern Conference finals, including double-digit wins and injuries to star players, the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics are facing off for Game 7 in Miami on Sunday at 8:30 p.m. ET (on ESPN and the ESPN app). The winner will advance to play
Pairing Zach LaVine with Luka Doncic could get the Dallas Mavericks over the top in the west. While Luka Doncic tasted the first postseason success of his NBA career, the Dallas Mavericks fell in five games to the Golden State Warriors in the 2022 Western Conference Finals. Doncic may be able to score at will, but he
Apr 7, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kent Bazemore (9) looks on before the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports Look: Ole Miss, Lane Kiffin troll Tennessee with 2022 season countdown graphic by John Buhler Joc Pederson, Tommy Pham have to be
5:17 PM ET MIAMI — The NBA announced that it has fined the Miami Heat $25,000 for “violating league rules regarding team bench decorum.” “On multiple occasions, several players stood for an extended period in Miami’s team bench area, stood away from the team bench, and were on, encroaching upon or entering the playing court
May 27, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Miami Heat guard Kyle Lowry (7) greets guard Victor Oladipo (4) and forward Jimmy Butler (22) during the second half in game six of the 2022 eastern conference finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports Liverpool demand probe after fans sprayed by tear gas at UCL
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning.’ The Golden State Warriors have officially won the West and the Boston Celtics have an opportunity to finish the Miami Heat tonight and take the East. With the NBA
Dwyane Wade said it himself, Michael Jordan is The GOAT and not LeBron James. At the end of May 2022, we can finally lay to rest the most important sports debate of all time: Who is The GOAT between Michael Jordan and LeBron James? Dwyane Wade wanted that smoke. In a round table featuring many
1:11 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN MIAMI — Ahead of Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals, Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka said that after his team has gone through a roller-coaster ride of a season to get to this point, it is only fitting that this series will come down to Boston having to win
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MARCH 06: Assistant Coach Darvin Ham of the Milwaukee Bucks looks on during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Fiserv Forum on March 06, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Phoenix Suns 132-122. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using
Mar 21, 2022; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) reacts in the second quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports Lakers hiring Bucks assistant Darvin Ham as next head coach by Scott Rogust Rockies City Connect uniforms: Best memes and tweets by Scott
9:08 PM ET Brianna Williams The Los Angeles Lakers secured their new head coach with the hire of Darvin Ham, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Prior to joining the Lakers, he served as an assistant for the defending NBA Champion Milwaukee Bucks. He has worked under Milwaukee head coach Mike Budenholzer since 2013, when the
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The Eastern Conference Finals has rolled out with some bizarre statistical twists. Going into Game 4, the Miami Heat held a 2-1 lead despite outscoring the Celtics in just
May 10, 2022; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) reacts after the basket made by Bam Adebayo (not pictured) during the second half in game five of the second round for the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers at FTX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports Everything we know about
The Lakers continue their head coaching search but have already interviewed one candidate and have two more intriguing meetings coming up soon. It’s going to be a busy offseason for the Los Angeles Lakers, mostly by necessity. With LeBron James nearing 40 years old and after the team missed out on the playoffs (even the
2:13 AM ET BOSTON — The Miami Heat might have to clear some room in Championship Alley. That’s the name for the path from their home court to the locker room that is filled with wall-sized memories of greatness from Miami’s past. Gary Payton‘s jumper that started their 2006 Finals comeback. Blood dripping down Udonis
Draymond Green sees his Golden State Warriors playing the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. On the Inside the NBA set outside of Chase Center, Draymond Green goes full-blown Nostradamus by predicting his Golden State Warriors will face the Boston Celtics in the 2022 NBA Finals. Admittedly, this is not the boldest of proclamations, but is
May 20, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) celebrates against the Dallas Mavericks during the fourth quarter in game two of the 2022 western conference finals at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports Tiger Woods withdraws from PGA Championship: Golf Twitter applauds his effort by Cody Williams
Gary Payton II of the Golden State Warriors says he has no bad blood for Dillon Brooks after his foul lead to him fracturing his elbow. The Golden State Warriors are one win away from reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 2019. In the previous round against the Memphis Grizzlies, the Warriors
NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 11: Iman Shumpert and James Harden attend Black Ops Basketball Session at Life Time Athletic At Sky on September 11, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images) NFL analyst paints shockingly bad picture of Trey Lance, 49ers by John Buhler Everyone seems to love trashing the conditioning
8:43 PM ET The Los Angeles Lakers have hired Milwaukee Bucks assistant Darvin Ham to be their next head coach, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Ham, who takes over the Lakers as a first-time head coach, replaces Frank Vogel, who was fired in April after the team went 33-49 and missed the playoffs this season.
After a report listed the finalists for the Los Angeles Lakers head coaching job, Kevin Garnett took to Instagram to mock it. Once the Los Angeles Lakers fired Frank Vogel, everyone was wondering who they would bring in to replace him in hopes of ultimately returning to top form in the Western Conference. Names like
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports NBA insider says Tyrese Maxey is ‘close to untouchable’ in 76ers’ trade talks by John Buhler Zach LaVine is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and he made some interesting comments about potentially playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. The Chicago Bulls made it to the NBA playoffs for
Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid hinted at a possible reunion with Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler — but it wouldn’t be in Philadelphia. The majority of the NBA started their offseason early, watching the playoffs from home as they await opportunity in October. Plenty of these players are tweeting observations of what they’re seeing in
8:00 AM ET NOBODY IN THE Dallas Mavericks‘ front office exchanged high-fives after details were finalized on the deal made minutes before the Feb. 10 trade deadline. The consensus in the room was that moving on from big man Kristaps Porzingis was in the best interest of the franchise, but it wasn’t a cause for
Los Angeles Clippers shooting guard Norman Powell was harassed at a gym in Las Vegas by a white woman who asserted he was not “American” due to his race. Unfortunately, NBA celebrity too often comes with fan harassment, whether it’s on social media or in person. And for Los Angeles Clippers shooting guard Norman Powell,
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – APRIL 28: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans looks on during the game against the Phoenix Suns at Smoothie King Center on April 28, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to
11:27 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — The Golden State Warriors are heading back to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2019 and for the sixth time in the last eight years. The Warriors punched their ticket with their 120-110 win over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 5 on the Western Conference
The Golden State Warriors walked into Dallas for Game 3 and exited with a 3-0 Western Conference Finals lead over the Mavericks. The Dallas Mavericks had a promising Game 2 against the Golden State Warriors, yet were unable to get the win. But there was hope for the Mavericks that returning to their home court
NBA analyst Jalen Rose admitted he made a mistake when he was the lone person to vote Brooklyn Nets point guard Kyrie Irving to All-NBA 3rd Team. It’s not easy to own freezing cold takes in sports, but Jalen Rose did it with grace: he actually called himself out for making a big mistake during
4:30 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN Zion Williamson has been cleared in his return to play progression without any restrictions, the New Orleans Pelicans announced Thursday afternoon. The announcement clears the way for Williamson to go through offseason workouts unrestricted this summer as he prepares for the 2022-23 season. Williams missed the entire 2021-22 season after
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. From all indications, the first two picks in the NBA Draft are already locked in. It sounds like the Orlando Magic have already decided on Jabari Smith and the
This isn’t the same Golden State team that once ran the NBA, but these playoffs have proven that Steph, Draymond and the Warriors are still a force. Only for a team spoiled by dynastic success could two years away from the NBA Finals seem like an eternity, and yet it feels like forever ago that
1:04 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN MIAMI — The Boston Celtics found themselves trailing the Miami Heat by five, on the road, at halftime of Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals on Wednesday night. And yet, the Celtics felt just fine. They couldn’t have played much worse in the first half, committing 10 turnovers and
Draymond Green threw some shade at the Minnesota Timberwolves regarding Andrew Wiggins after his huge Game 3 performance. The Golden State Warriors are officially one win away from reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 2019. They have reached this point after taking the first three games in the Western Conference Finals against
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr gave an angry and impassioned speech urging senators to pass tighter gun laws after the school shooting in Texas. Like many Americans on Tuesday hearing news of an unimaginable school shooting in Texas, Steve Kerr is angry and frustrated. An 18-year-old gunman opened fire in an elementary school in Uvalde,
Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young endorses Steve Kerr’s passionate plea for gun reform on Twitter, saying “enough is enough.” For many Americans reeling from the news of the Uvalde school shooting, there’s the question of whether or not gun violence will intersect with their own lives if it hasn’t already. Golden State Warriors head coach
2:31 AM ET MIAMI — In late January, the San Antonio Spurs traded backup guard Bryn Forbes to the Denver Nuggets. Five months later, that unassuming move has made a major impact on the 2022 Eastern Conference finals. It was the opening of an opportunity for the Boston Celtics that has been fully realized as
Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) Mets rumors: New York scouts 2 trade targets after Max Scherzer injury by Mark Powell By attending Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday night, Deebo Samuel is not expected to take part in the
Milwaukee Bucks power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is the only player since the 1966-67 NBA season to make the All-NBA team. Deciding the NBA’s GOAT is a constant, fluctuating conversation, but historical records don’t lie. In that regard, seeing that Giannis Antetokounmpo just did something that no NBA player has done in 55 years makes him
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