Rajon Rondo is being accused of domestic violence involving the mother of his children. Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Rajon Rondo is in hot water after news broke of a domestic violence dispute erupting from a heated altercation with the mother of his two children. TMZ Sports reported, “Ashley Bachelor, Rondo’s former partner and mother of
8:00 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN To understand the depths of animosity between the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics entering this year’s NBA Eastern Conference finals, you have to go back to an otherwise nondescript regular-season night in March 2013. That night in New Orleans, a Heat public relations official approached the team’s traveling media contingent
Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (right): Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports The Phoenix Suns were supposedly a lock to make it to the NBA Finals this season. Now, after losing in round two, there is a lot to figure out for the future of this franchise. This was supposed to be an easy road to
Jan 23, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) walks off the field looking at the scoreboard during the second half against the Los Angeles Rams during a NFC Divisional playoff football game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports Watch: Steve Aoki’s first pitch for Red Sox
9:24 PM ET The NBA on Monday said it’s in the process of gathering more information after veteran point guard Rajon Rondo allegedly threatened a woman with a gun at her house last week. The woman filed for an emergency protective order against Rondo on Friday in Louisville, Kentucky, a copy of which was obtained
May 6, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Danny Green (14) shoots the ball against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter in game three of the second round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports Lakers will be interviewing Kenny Atkinson for head coaching job
Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Patrick Beverley called out Phoenix Suns star Chris Paul for allegedly faking an injury in embarrassing Game 7 loss. Narrative shapes legacy in the NBA, and performance is primarily what shapes narratives. But narratives are also shaped by interpretation, so when Patrick Beverley pounces on Chris Paul after the most devastating
3:26 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart is questionable for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Miami Heat with a right midfoot sprain, coach Ime Udoka said Monday. Sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that Smart had an MRI on the foot Monday that came back clean, and that Smart
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – MAY 01: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after being ejected during Game One of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on May 01, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or
After losing to the Golden State Warriors in six games, Memphis Grizzlies guard Dillon Brooks made a bold statement about the future. The Grizzlies think it’s their time, but the Warriors aren’t ready to relinquish the Western Conference throne just yet. Despite losing to the Dubs in six games in the Western Conference Semifinals, Dillon
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – MAY 15: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics reacts during the third quarter in Game Seven of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks at TD Garden on May 15, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using
8:00 AM ET And then there were four teams left standing in the 2022 NBA playoffs. After the Milwaukee Bucks and Phoenix Suns — last year’s NBA finalists — were knocked out in Game 7s on the same day, the 2021-22 season is one step closer to crowning a new champion. The Boston Celtics overcame
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – MAY 15: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks handles the ball against Cameron Johnson #23 of the Phoenix Suns during the first half in Game Seven of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals at Footprint Center on May 15, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and
10:13 PM ET PHOENIX — The Western Conference Finals will have a surprise participant after Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks dismissed the top-seeded Phoenix Suns in completely dominant fashion. The Mavericks claimed the right to advance to face the Golden State Warriors by rolling to a 123-90 rout of the Suns in Sunday’s Game
Doc Rivers passionately responded to a question about his job security after the Philadelphia 76ers were eliminated from the playoffs. The Philadelphia 76ers were down 0-2 in their second-round series against the Miami Heat, tied it up with wins their next two games following the return of Joel Embiid, and entered the verge of elimination
After the Golden State Warriors advanced to the Western Conference Finals, Klay Thompson posted a legendary Instagram story. The Golden State Warriors had the chance to eliminate the Memphis Grizzlies with a Game 5 win, but suffered a humiliating blowout loss. In Game 6, the Warriors had Klay Thompson step up in a huge way,
2:22 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN BOSTON — Robert Williams III will be available for the Boston Celtics on Sunday afternoon in Game 7 of their second-round playoff series against the Milwaukee Bucks, but he may not play his normal minutes — if he plays at all. Celtics coach Ime Udoka said Williams, who has missed
Rapper Kendrick Lamar included a verse regarding Kyrie Irving’s COVID-19 vaccine stance in the song “Savior” off of his latest album. Friday, May 13 was a huge day in the music world, as rapper Kendrick Lamar released his latest album titled Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers. Of course, fans were wondering just what Lamar
8:25 AM ET Which NBA contenders will join the Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors in the conference finals? Sunday’s Game 7s feature two series that could not be more different. The Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks (3:30 p.m. ET, ABC) have each bruised their way into their finale, each winning classics on the opponent’s
Joel Embiid didn’t sound very enamored with his teammates after they came up short in the second round against the Miami Heat. The Philadelphia 76ers’ season officially ended on Thursday with a 99-90 loss to the Miami Heat. It was a frustrating loss for a team who couldn’t quite pull themselves out of the 0-2
9:17 PM ET PHOENIX — On the plane ride back home after losing in blowout fashion to the Dallas Mavericks in Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals, Suns star Devin Booker joined a card game with teammates Chris Paul and Jae Crowder and discussed their Game 7 challenge ahead. Paul has played in seven
CLEVELAND, OH – JUNE 09: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors and assistant coach Mike Brown react after a foul call in the third quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the 2017 NBA Finals at Quicken Loans Arena on June 9, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly
James Harden plans on staying with the Philadelphia 76ers, despite a playoff disappointment and his contract opt-out. It helps that Harden can make over $47 million next season, though the 76ers will likely try to persuade him to take a more nuanced extension. Should Harden opt in to that year, it’ll be a contract season
Brooklyn Nets point guard Kyrie Irving responded to online trolls by calling his critics “cockroaches” during a recent Twitch stream. “It’s but so long y’all can say the same jokes,” Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving warned the Twitch community. “But so long.” Irving, who has become a reviled figure among the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston
Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks doesn’t sound committed to Kyrie Irving long-term, as the star point guard’s contract is up this offseason. Irving sounds like he wants to be back in Brooklyn. Kevin Durant and Ben Simmons are both saying all the right things. Unfortunately, the decision to bring back Kyrie is not up
5:00 PM ET ESPN News Services MILWAUKEE — The Bucks have canceled a watch party for Sunday’s Game 7 against the Boston Celtics after 21 people were injured in three separate shootings near an entertainment district in downtown Milwaukee at the end of the team’s Game 6 Eastern Conference semifinals loss Friday night. A spokesman
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 Miami Heat have already punched their ticket to the next round and the Warriors and Bucks could do so tonight. With the Conference Finals just days away, I
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MAY 13: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics celebrates a basket against Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the third quarter in Game Six of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals at Fiserv Forum on May 13, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and
Jul 11, 2021; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers offensive lineman David Bakhtiari reacts as his father Karl Bakhtiari drinks a beer during the Milwaukee Bucks against the Phoenix Suns during game three of the 2021 NBA Finals at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Did Leafs, Auston Matthews get screwed over
2:05 AM ET MILWAUKEE — The Giannis Antetokounmpo–Jayson Tatum rivalry is here. It is defining the present of the Eastern Conference and may extend well into the future. Antetokounmpo is putting up Wilt Chamberlain and Shaquille O’Neal numbers. Tatum is breaking the records of all those retired jerseys for his 75-year-old storied franchise that has
Brooklyn Nets guard/forward/superfan Ben Simmons liked a tweet from Skip Bayless trashing his former team, the Philadelphia 76ers. The 76ers had just lost to the Miami Heat in Game 6 on Thursday night, thus ending their season. It’s not quite clear what Simmons has against Philly, minus the feelings most exes have about each other.
Adreian Payne, Michigan State Spartans. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) Post-spring SEC football power rankings: Alabama reclaims top spot from Georgia by John Buhler Former Michigan State basketball star Adreian Payne passed away at the age of 31. The college hoops world is in mourning, as former Michigan State basketball standout Adreian Payne passed away at
12:44 AM ET Jamal CollierESPN MILWAUKEE — Three people were shot near Deer District outside Fiserv Forum near the conclusion of Friday night’s Game 6 between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics, sending fans there fleeing through the streets. The Milwaukee Fire Department said one man and one woman shot were transported to the
Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat, Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) Why undefeated William Zepeda almost left boxing by Jeremy Herriges As Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers’ season ends yet again, one of their former players Jimmy Butler and his Miami Heat are moving on to the Eastern Conference Finals. After beating the Philadelphia
Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler thrashes the Philadelphia 76ers for their decision to roll with Tobias Harris instead of keeping him on their roster. And just like that, the playoffs hopes for a Sixers chip this year died along with Joel Embiid’s MVP opportunity. A bitter week for Philadelphia fans to be sure, but it
12:45 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN MILWAUKEE – Boston Celtics forward Robert Williams III is still questionable for Friday night’s Game 6 against the Milwaukee Bucks because of left knee soreness. However, Boston coach Ime Udoka clarified that the soreness is not stemming from his surgery last month to repair the meniscus his Williams’ left knee.
Can the positive or negative tone of Reddit posts helps us find the saltiest NBA fanbase after wins, losses and more? Which fanbases are the most insufferable? On the other hand, which fanbases suffer the most? Which fanbases find the most joy in their team, and which fanbases simply don’t care? Of course, we know
Credit: Alex Goodlett/Getty Images Watch a woman scale barriers, charge the Octagon at UFC 274 by Scott Rogust Shaquille O’Neal said that there is no way that Rudy Gobert could guard him one-on-one. The Jazz star responded on Instagram. When it comes to Shaquille O’Neal, he was one of the most dominant players in the
9:34 PM ET PHILADELPHIA — The Miami Heat are headed to the Eastern Conference finals for the second time in three years after closing out the Philadelphia 76ers 99-90 in Game 6 of their second-round series on Thursday night. As has been the case throughout the series, it was Jimmy Butler who led the way
Former Boston Celtics center Enes Kanter Freedom believes that billionaire Elon Musk could bring “justice” to the NBA if he purchased the league. Elon Musk has made waves in his aggressive bid to buy Twitter, but Enes Kanter Freedom has another major purchase in mind for Musk: the NBA. The former Boston Celtics center, who
Atlanta Falcons wideout Drake London was an elite two-sport athlete, playing AAU basketball with NBA stars like Zaire Williams, Scottie Barnes and Tre Mann. Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London was the first receiver taken in the 2022 NFL Draft, but the No. 8 overall pick maintains that if he chose a different path in
9:59 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN IN EARLY MARCH, sitting on-stage inside Boston’s Hynes Convention Center for the start of the annual MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, Daryl Morey wore a blue blazer over a red shirt that featured a cartoon of James Harden‘s face from his famous internet meme. “Besides ‘Seize The Data,’ the theme
Steph Curry’s prediction that the Golden State Warriors would “whoop that trick” hilariously backfired, and the Memphis Grizzlies were sure to rub it in. Heading into Game 5, Steph Curry was a little too confident that the Warriors would dominate in Game 5. So confident, in fact, that Curry jazzed up his Memphis pre-game prediction
Less than a month from his 36th birthday, a rejuvenated Al Horford has helped keep the Celtics alive against the Bucks. Plus: a note on the NBA’s MVP award. The NBA playoffs have a way of producing unlikely heroes. In arduous battles where each team knows the other’s tendencies, anticipates its tactics and keys in
8:00 AM ET Maya A. Jones It’s a Monday afternoon at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, and Suns center Deandre Ayton is locked in. He’s not focused on his team’s upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers the next day, thinking ahead to a playoff run, or worrying about his contract negotiations with the Suns.
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – MAY 11: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies celebrates a basket against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter in Game Five of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals at FedExForum on May 11, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by
May 20, 2017; San Antonio, TX, USA; Golden State Warriors acting head coach Mike Brown cheers on his team against the San Antonio Spurs during the first half in game three of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports WWE WrestleMania Backlash live results and
1:32 AM ET BOSTON — The relationship between Giannis Antetokounmpo and teammate Khris Middleton, now nine years in, is well known for its depth and trust. But about that Jrue Holiday relationship … “It’s blooming, it’s blooming!” Antetokounmpo said after the Milwaukee Bucks finished off a jaw-dropping display of clutch play in stealing a 110-107
The Over and Back Classic NBA Podcast returns with an episode on teams that added a big star (or more) but severely underperformed. Two examples this year with the Brooklyn Nets being swept in the first round after gaining (and losing) James Harden (and never getting Ben Simmons to replace him) and the Los Angeles
9:39 PM ET The Los Angeles Lakers have been granted permission to interview Golden State Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson for the franchise’s coaching job, sources told ESPN on Wednesday. The Lakers have been methodically meeting with candidates in recent weeks and plan to talk with Atkinson in the near future, sources said. Atkinson built a
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 03: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors complains about a call against the Sacramento Kings in the first half at Golden 1 Center on April 03, 2022 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting
Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell (45): Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports Donovan Mitchell will be one of the most intriguing trade pieces until he is moved this offseason. Which teams can put forth the most intriguing trade proposals? The Utah Jazz are likely going to change the roster in a major way. Is there any player
After Monty Williams was named NBA Coach of the Year, Chris Paul took to Twitter to celebrate and recognize his head coach’s accomplishment. Chris Paul is a basketball legend and he definitely knows how difficult it is to win consistently in the NBA. So, it makes sense that he would be able to recognize a
The details surrounding the interaction between Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul’s mom and wife and Dallas Mavericks fans have been further explained. It’s the Western Conference Semifinals, and the Phoenix Suns lost their second consecutive game in Game 4. The Suns could have wrapped up the series by this point with their initial 2-0
1:51 PM ET Associated Press NEW YORK — Kyrie Irving might have to show the Brooklyn Nets he’s more than a great basketball player if he wants a future with the team. General manager Sean Marks made clear Wednesday that Irving will have to prove a commitment to being available to his team, a commitment
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr lavished praise on Mike Brown after he was hired by the Sacramento Kings. Ahead of Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Memphis Grizzlies, the Golden State Warriors learned that there will be changes made to their coaching staff. On Sunday, May 8, reports indicated that
Shaquille O’Neal was not having any of that Danny Green IcyHot slander nonsense over the air. Danny Green may hate his nickname, but Shaquille O’Neal was not about to let him rip one of the many products he endorses over the air. Of course, we are talking about IcyHot. Green spoke with the fellas after
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith was not pleased with the performance of the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 5, as they were blown out by the Miami Heat. Momentum appeared to be on the side of the Philadelphia 76ers once they got Joel Embiid back from injury in time for Game 3. They took the next two
1:09 AM ET When the definitive history of the Process-Era Philadelphia 76ers is written someday, there will be many moments and decisions to revisit. Without the benefit of hindsight yet, it’s impossible to know which were the most consequential. But it’s impossible to watch what Jimmy Butler did to the Sixers Tuesday night in the
May 9, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) sits on the bench against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter of game four of the second round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports Steve Kerr showers Mike Brown with praise after
6:05 PM ET Memphis Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant has been diagnosed with a bone bruise in his right knee, an MRI confirmed, and is doubtful to return this postseason, the team said Tuesday. Morant, who exited during the fourth quarter of Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Golden State Warriors on
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MAY 09: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks stares at Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics following a score during the second half of Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at Fiserv Forum on May 09, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that,
Following Game 4 against the Philadelphia 76ers, Jimmy Butler has now passed LeBron James in the Miami Heat playoff record books. The Miami Heat once had a 2-0 series lead against the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. After Game 4, the series is now tied after the 76ers pulled off the 116-108 Game
8:00 AM ET What’s next in four thrilling NBA conference semifinal series? After Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III was a late scratch Monday night, Al Horford picked up the slack with a playoff career-high 30 points in a series-tying Game 4 win over Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite shooting 9-for-37 from 3-point
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 17: A view of the Los Angeles Sparks logo at center court ahead of a game between the Los Angeles Sparks and the Atlanta Dream at Staples Center on August 17, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using
11:32 PM ET MILWAUKEE — There was a point this season when the Boston Celtics were 16-19 overall. There was a point last season when Al Horford was shut down by the Oklahoma City Thunder with 28 games left, unsure of where the twilight of his pro career was headed. There was a point late
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MAY 09: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks walks to the bench during the second quarter of Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum on May 09, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or
Mar 27, 2022; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson yawns during pre-game warm ups before their game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports MLB fans are loving Astros losing on a walk-off error to Diamondbacks by Alicia de Artola Zion Williamson
8:28 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr tested positive for COVID-19, the team announced Monday evening. He has entered the league’s health and safety protocols and will not be on the bench for Monday’s Game 4 against the Memphis Grizzlies. Associate head coach Mike Brown will assume
TAMPA, FLORIDA – JANUARY 16: DeVonta Smith #6 of the Philadelphia Eagles warms up against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prior to the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Raymond James Stadium on January 16, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) Willson Contreras cup-checked Max Muncy chasing after wild pitch for no reason
Rap star Kendrick Lamar’s newest music video features a series of jaw-dropping deepfakes including Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. Kendrick Lamar’s newest music video is a stunning example of the space where art meets technology. The rap star stands in front of a red background performing “The Heart Part 5” but what starts out as his
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. Every team has the same goal on offense — score as many points as possible. But every team goes about that in a different way, using different patterns of
Apr 12, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves co-minority owners Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore celebrate a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers after a play-in game at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports Has new leader in Arch Manning recruiting sweepstakes emerged? by Scott Rogust Alex Rodriguez can be spotted court-side at
8:00 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN When the Boston Celtics arrived at Washington’s Capital One Arena to take on the Wizards for a matinee on Jan. 23, there was no indication it would serve as the turning point of Boston’s tumultuous season. The Celtics had been coming off one of their most dispiriting losses of the
Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins provided an update on Ja Morant’s status for Game 4 against the Golden State Warriors, and it isn’t good. The Memphis Grizzlies are down 1-2 in their Western Conference Semi-Finals series against the Golden State Warriors, but the main story is the status of star Ja Morant. During the
1:09 AM ET Tobias Harris would usually have more to say, but he was trying to take it easy on his windpipe after absorbing an inadvertent Bam Adebayo elbow to the neck in the second half of the Philadelphia 76ers‘ 116-108 win against the Miami Heat in Sunday’s Game 4 of their best-of-seven Eastern Conference
New York Liberty forward Michaela Onyenwere proved doubters wrong when she won the WNBA 2021 Rookie of the Year Award. Now, the 22-year-old phenom is making sure NYC girls are supported in their game. In 2013, a teenage Michaela Onyenwere had just picked up a basketball and began to get into the game. She had
Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden. (Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports) How many games is the first round of the NHL Playoffs? by Scott Rogust The Philadelphia 76ers badly missed Joel Embiid in Game 1 against the Heat and their hopes against Miami probably won’t get brighter without their star. With Joel Embiid out while recovering from
Rick Ross. (Syndication: The Commercial Appeal) Look: Bruins have ill-advised party in penalty box during Game 2 by Ethan Lee Rick Ross got the most out of his courtside seats at the playoff game between the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers, grabbing his first NBA rebound. Stars sitting courtside often get their share of attention
9:31 PM ET DALLAS — Several family members of Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul in attendance for Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday were harassed and physically contacted by a fan in the crowd, sources told ESPN. Paul addressed the disturbing Mother’s Day incident on social media
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MAY 07: Grant Williams #12 and Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics reacts to an officials call during the second half of Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on May 07, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees
Joel Embiid’s return might have helped give the Philadelphia 76ers a win, but they were hit with a hefty fine by the NBA. The Philadelphia 76ers appeared to be doomed through the first two games of their second round series against the Miami Heat, as they were without Joel Embiid. Yet, the star was able
May 1, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) and Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) have words during game one of the second round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Joe Rondone-USA TODAY Sports 3 veterans Steelers could cut after 2022 NFL Draft by Ethan Lee Draymond
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 second round of the playoffs kicked off Sunday with the Bucks dominating the Celtics and the Warriors barely eking out a victory over the Grizzlies in their respective
1:55 AM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — The Golden State Warriors almost made history on the way to their 142-112 rout of the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals. The Warriors shot 63.1% from the field and had a 76.1 true shooting percentage — the second-best in both categories in
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MAY 07: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies sits on the bench and reacts after a team trainer examines his knee during a time out against the Golden State Warriors in the second half of Game Three of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs at Chase Center on
Shaquille O’Neal opened up about the three major regrets that he has, one of them being his relationship with Kobe Bryant, during his appearance on “The Pivot Podcast.” Shaquille O’Neal is a Basketball Hall of Famer and part of the entertaining Inside the NBA program on TNT. But recently, O’Neal opened up to talk about
Former Lakers coach Phil Jackson. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports) It sounds like the Titans have serious QB beef between Ryan Tannehill and Malik Willis by Scott Rogust The Los Angeles Lakers coaching search will involve input from former coach Phil Jackson after the franchise fired Frank Vogel. The Lakers need a new head coach so
1:23 AM ET SAN FRANCISCO — The Memphis Grizzlies are concerned about their star point guard Ja Morant, who limped off the court with over five minutes remaining in a blowout loss to Golden State after Jordan Poole grabbed Morant’s right knee during a trap near half court. Morant left without talking to reporters but
Credit: Alex Goodlett/Getty Images The Utah Jazz could shake things up this offseason by trading one of their stars, and here are five teams who could make an intriguing offer for Rudy Gobert. The Utah Jazz won the Northwest Division for the second straight year this year. They also made a first-round playoff exit for
Apr 28, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) gestures after a scoring play against the Toronto Raptors in the second half during game six of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports Von Miller confirms on IG that he almost signed
9:15 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN MILWAUKEE — Every member of the Boston Celtics inside Fiserv Forum on Saturday afternoon was incredulous. With the clock ticking down and the Celtics training by three, Boston’s Jaylen Brown handed the ball off to Marcus Smart on the perimeter. Immediately, Smart attempted to get his shot off with Milwaukee
May 6, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) rebounds the ball past Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) during the first quarter in game three of the second round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports Rory MacDonald secured big win to open
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid. (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) Kayla Harrison outlasts Marina Mokhnatkina at PFL 3 by Chad Porto After returning and leading his team to a Game 3 win over the Miami Heat, Joel Embiid used the perfect meme to let the world know that the Philadelphia 76ers are back. The Philadelphia 76ers
8:00 AM ET Jamal CollierESPN The Milwaukee Bucks were rallying in the fourth quarter of Game 2 of their first-round series against the Chicago Bulls when a driving lane opened up for forward Khris Middleton. Middleton made a beeline toward the rim before Bulls center Nikola Vucevic stepped in front of the basket. Middleton attempted
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 playoffs resume tonight after a rate night off. With every second-round series looking tight, I tapped in some of the best minds from The Step Back and FanSided’s NBA
2:20 AM ET DALLAS — Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic felt that he let his teammates down with what he accurately described as a “horrible” defensive effort during the second half of a Game 2 loss to the Phoenix Suns. His backcourt partner Jalen Brunson needed only one word to sum up his performance in the
Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports The Whiteboard: Big questions for Giannis, Chris Paul and the Celtics by Ian Levy Phoenix Suns fans are enjoying a rare opportunity to dunk on the rival Los Angeles Lakers, including highlighting some statistical differences between Anthony Davis and Jae Crowder. Phoenix Suns fans are loving their team right now. After
The NBA has levied a fine against Warriors forward Draymond Green for the obscene gesture he made towards Grizzlies fans during Game 2. Draymond Green laughed off the idea of being fined for flipping the bird to fans in Memphis during Game 2 of the Warriors-Grizzlies playoff series. The NBA obliged. On Thursday, the league
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 19: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors looks on after a foul in the first half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on November 19, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User
8:43 PM ET The Los Angeles Lakers interviewed former Portland Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts for the franchise’s coaching job on Friday, sources told ESPN. Stotts joins the Lakers’ search process as a candidate with a history of playoff consistency, offensive creativity and an ability to build relationships with his star players. Before his dismissal
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid. (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) Cowboy Cerrone holds back tears during UFC 274 media day (Video) by Jake Foley The latest Joel Embiid injury update isn’t good news for the Philadelphia 76ers who will likely have to make it through Game 3 against the Heat without him. The 76ers are in
Even Scottie Pippen said he would have had major trouble guarding Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite being a 10-time All-Defensive player out on the wing in his athletic prime, Chicago Bulls legend Scottie Pippen said it would have been very difficult for him to guard Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. Pippen equated Antetokounmpo to a young Shaquille O’Neal during
8:00 AM ET As soon as they saw each other at the American Airlines Center, Donovan Mitchell made a simple request of Theo Pinson before the Utah Jazz and Dallas Mavericks met in the first round of the NBA’s Western Conference playoffs. “Theo, shut up, please,” Mitchell told Pinson. Mitchell is quite familiar with his
Mar 12, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan gestures to the referees during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports The Bulls were easily dispatched by the Bucks in Round 1 of this year’s NBA playoffs. Here’s how Chicago can improve heading into next season. Chicago
With everything on the line, the 1-3 Denver Nuggets have one last chance at advancing as they face the Golden State Warriors in Game 5. Although the Phoenix Suns were the most dominant NBA team all season with a franchise-best record of 64-18, they quickly went 2-2 against New Orleans without Devin Booker. Booker is
6:11 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN PHILADELPHIA — 76ers superstar center Joel Embiid is currently being listed as out for Game 3 of Philadelphia’s Eastern Conference semifinal against the MiamI Heat, but there is still progress that could be made to change his availability in time to play Friday, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. As 76ers
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. Clutch statistics, both for teams and players, are notoriously unreliable as predictors of future outcomes. They come with the requisite noise of small sample size, the context and style
DALLAS, TEXAS – APRIL 10: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts after making a basket in the second half against the San Antonio Spurs at American Airlines Center on April 10, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is
The Celtics found a way to contain Giannis Antetokounmpo through two games. Can their defensive clinic sustain? Plus: the Mavs have no answer for Phoenix’s offense. The first two games between the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks haven’t been particularly pleasant to watch, but even the most arduous slogs can contain interesting strategic battles. Boston’s
6:32 PM ET LA Clippers forward Robert Covington has agreed to a two-year, $24 million contract extension, his agent, Andrew Morrison of CAA Sports, told ESPN on Thursday. Covington, who will avoid a summer free-agency marketplace that is limited in salary-cap space, returns to a loaded Clippers roster that will start the season among the
Jan 20, 2022; Dallas, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Jae Crowder (99) and Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) both react during the second half at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports 76ers might be completely doomed against Heat if Joel Embiid can’t play by Alicia de Artola Draymond Green reacted to
Shaquille O’Neal and Sloane Stephens have both been taunted many times but learned to never react to what was being said in the crowd. It wasn’t always a pleasant experience for Shaquille O’Neal when he was on the basketball court. O’Neal was a fan favorite in most NBA arenas — with perhaps the rare exception
8:00 AM ET How much has each NBA conference semifinals shifted after Game 2? For the Boston Celtics vs. Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies vs. Golden State Warriors showdowns, plenty. In Boston, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum combined for 59 points as the league’s No. 1 defense limited the Bucks to 3-for-18 from the 3-point
Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers showed little confidence in Joel Embiid returning this season. The 76ers dropped Game 2 to the Miami Heat, 119-103, making it even more apparent how much Joel Embiid’s absence affects the team. Since he got hurt, the 76ers haven’t been the same. They have gotten boat-raced the last two games
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – APRIL 05: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks looks to pass under pressure from DeMar DeRozan #11 and Patrick Williams #44 of the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on April 05, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bucks defeated the Bulls 127-106. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that,
12:42 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN MIAMI — After dropping their first two games on the shores of Biscayne Bay to open up this Eastern Conference semifinal against the Heat without superstar big man Joel Embiid, one question looms over the Philadelphia 76ers as the series shifts back to the City of Brotherly Love for Game
The Philadelphia 76ers weren’t able to come out on top of Game 2 against the Miami Heat, but Tyrese Maxey certainly made an impression on many watching the game. The first two games of this playoff series between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Miami Heat haven’t exactly gone the way many fans in Philadelphia would
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports Oksana Masters is mastering the Paralympic movement by Aryanna Prasad Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James called out basketball writers for putting Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies on the Most Improved Player ballot. Throughout the NBA Playoffs, Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies has shown that he is one of
7:50 PM ET Brooklyn Nets swingman Ben Simmons will require three to four months of rehabilitation after undergoing back surgery on Thursday, but is expected to be fully recovered to return to the court well ahead of preseason training camp in September, sources told ESPN on Wednesday. Simmons, 25, is undergoing a microdiscectomy procedure to
Nari Ward is a critically acclaimed contemporary artist whose work draws heavily on his experiences and relationships with sports. The sports world rarely intersects with the world of fine art. The jocks and art kids don’t hang out in high school and that doesn’t often change throughout life. In the work of Nari Ward, however,
A back injury flaring up kept Nets star Ben Simmons out of Game 4 but it is actually a “mental block” at the root of the problem. The Ben Simmons saga with the Nets hit a low point this week as Brooklyn faced elimination in Game 4 against the Celtics while the star guard apparently
Even though the recently eliminated Brooklyn Nets rarely looked like contenders, many still thought of them as one. Why was that idea so hard to let go of? In Game 2 of the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Brooklyn Nets demolished the Bucks 125-86, and I assure you the game was even more lopsided than
7:45 AM ET All odds are provided by Caesars Sportsbook. What you need to know for Wednesday’s playoff games Backing off Brunson: The Mavs ranked fifth in percentage of points from beyond the arc during the regular season, something that they should look to embrace against the top-seeded Suns. But while Dallas has largely built
Mar 20, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse looks on in the second quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports NHL Playoffs: Avalanche vs. Predators Game 1 TV channel and more by Scott Rogust Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse shut down rumors
Marcus Smart of the Boston Celtics Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports 3 teams that should trade for Deebo Samuel and Jimmy Garoppolo by Braulio Perez Video of Mike Tyson assaulting a passenger on a plane leaked by Sapphires Sealey Marcus Smart lets everyone know that he is DPOY by showing up to TD Garden
Apr 25, 2022; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving (11) and forward Kevin Durant (7) drop back on defense during the second quarter of game four of the first round of the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Boston Celtics at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports Seahawks draft plans could
2:19 AM ET MEMPHIS, Tenn. — On Monday, coming off the Golden State Warriors‘ 117-116 victory in Game 1, Stephen Curry reminisced about his absentminded youth. Like every student on Davidson’s campus, Curry was issued a CatCard that admitted him to every facility, from the gym to the cafeteria. While his counterpart in the Western
May 3, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Dillon Brooks (24) walks off the court after a flagrant two foul was call on him during the first half in game two of the second round for the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Golden State Warriors at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports Watch:
Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart endured two injuries during Game 1 of the 2022 Eastern Conference Semifinals, adding to a long list of past injuries. The Milwaukee Bucks opened the Eastern Conference Semifinals series with a bang, defeating the Boston Celtics 101-89. Although Giannis Antetokounmpo deserves credit playing at an MVP level, it’s also true
10:20 PM ET MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was ejected less than three minutes into Tuesday night’s game against the Golden State Warriors for a flagrant foul 2 on Gary Payton II, marking the second straight game in this second-round series that a starter was ejected for a flagrant 2. Brooks was
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. Even if Joel Embiid was fully healthy, the Philadelphia 76ers likely would have been underdogs against the Miami Heat. The Heat had the best record in the Eastern Conference,
11:53 AM ET The Charlotte Hornets are beginning to interview candidates for the franchise’s head-coaching opening, including the possibility of a reunion for general manager Mitch Kupchak with ex-Lakers coach Mike D’Antoni, sources told ESPN. D’Antoni has been identified as a serious candidate early in the process, especially because of the possibility of pairing him
NBA ref Scott Foster. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) Draymond Green had perfect reaction to Jae Crowder kicking Luka Doncic in the groin by Scott Rogust NBA refs Scott Foster and Ed Malloy had no idea who Jack Harlow was when he ended up on the big screen during the Bucks vs. Celtics game. All
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 Utah Jazz are in trouble. They’ve split the first two games of their series with the Dallas Mavericks but Luka Doncic didn’t play for the Mavs in either
The Utah Jazz look to hold serve when they host the Dallas Mavericks in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series on Thursday night. All tied up at a game apiece, the Utah Jazz are hoping to win their first one at home in their first-round playoff series vs. the Dallas Mavericks in Game 3
12:31 AM ET There are few things in the NBA more precious than time and space. Four years ago, it seemed like the Philadelphia 76ers had endless amounts of both as they faced off with the Miami Heat in a first-round playoff series with an eerily similar setup to Monday night’s Game 1 of the
Klay Thompson felt like destroying something beautiful by messing up his Golden State Warriors teammate Steph Curry’s trick shot attempt. There are no trick shots going in on Klay Thompson’s watch, as he totally ruined Golden State Warriors teammate Steph Curry’s almost attempt. While the boys were messing around in the lead-up to Game 1 of their Western
So this poor Boston Celtics fan found out his team lost Game 1 in the middle of his wedding. Imagine being in the middle of getting married, only to find out your favorite NBA team lost Game 1. This Boston Celtics fan was walking down the aisle with his beautiful bride, only to find out
Raptors forward Pascal Siakam made the absolute most of a push-off during Game 4 of Toronto’s playoff series against the 76ers. The Raptors got a much-needed win in Game 4 against the 76ers, hanging on to avoid a sweep on Saturday. They did it thanks to 34 points from Pascal Siakam, who also came through
5:20 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN MEMPHIS, Tenn — The Golden State Warriors had little reaction to the league announcing it would not downgrade Draymond Green‘s flagrant foul 2 that he picked up in the second quarter of Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Memphis Grizzlies. That being said, there is reason to
Julius “Dr. J “Erving is sticking with his original favorites when it comes to the GOAT argument. When the next GOAT argument commences you will most likely not hear the name Julius Erving. Michael Jordan and LeBron James will be included, perhaps with a side of Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson. There might be a
8:00 AM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN THERE’S A PAGE on Golden State Warriors assistant coach Chris DeMarco’s Notes app dedicated to one of the breakout stars of the 2021-22 regular season — and one of the most important players on the team’s roster. Jordan Poole. It’s been there since 2019. On it, you’ll see guiding principles
The questionable Draymond Green ejection sent Stephen A. Smith and Jalen Rose over the edge during ESPN’s halftime show. It doesn’t take a lot to work Stephen A. Smith up, but it’s not often then the Venn diagram of things that get him going and things that get everyone else on NBA Twitter going is
6:49 PM ET Jamal CollierESPN BOSTON — Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo had made two unsuccessful attempts to drive past Boston Celtics forward Grant Williams on a possession midway through the fourth quarter on Sunday, so Antetokounmpo had to get creative. He faked a shot to his left and then turned his body right, gathering
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – MAY 01: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after being ejected during Game One of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on May 01, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or
Nathan Diaz insulted the entire sport of boxing and basketball in a single Twitter post. Nathan Diaz dealt a blow to both boxing and basketball in a tweet over the weekend. “Losing a boxing match is like losing a basketball game It’s not a real Fight,” he wrote with the fist emoji. His stance may
5:27 PM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Draymond Green was ejected with less than two minutes left in the first half of the Golden State Warriors‘ opening game against the Memphis Grizzlies in their Western Conference semifinal series. As Memphis forward Brandon Clarke went up for a dunk with 1:18 left in the second
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. Every NBA playoff series has now had a Game 1 and things mostly went according to script — five of the eight were decided by double-digits and we only
Apr 5, 2022; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker celebrates in the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Rockies lock up lefty Kyle Freeland to new five-year deal by Eric Treuden After hitting a buzzer-beating shot in the
12:40 PM ET Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid won’t travel for Games 1 and 2 of the team’s playoff series against the Miami Heat, but there is optimism that he could return as soon as either Game 3 or 4 in Philadelphia, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Embiid needs to clear concussion protocols and see
Dec 13, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) drives to the basket while defended by Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports Jalen Reagor wipes Instagram clean of Eagles references after A.J. Brown trade by John Buhler The Boston
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid. (Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports) Stephen A. Smith absolutely torches Ben Simmons for not playing Game 4 by Mark Powell Game 5 of the Raptors vs. 76ers is coming up on Monday night as Philadelphia looks to close out the series and Toronto hopes to extend. The NBA Playoffs will continue
Apr 25, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) reacts after his offensive charge against the Toronto Raptors during the second quarter in game five of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports Packers targeting massive trade to get Aaron Rodgers
2:21 PM ET MIAMI — Heat swingman Jimmy Butler is confident he’ll be ready for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night as he continues to deal with right knee soreness. “It’s all right,” Butler said after Saturday’s practice. “We got another day in between. Get out there,
Mar 21, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) dribbles the ball against Philadelphia 76ers forward Georges Niang (20) during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports Cameron Heyward reacts to Steelers drafting his younger brother by Scott Rogust The Miami Heat look to return to
Jan 11, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) watches as Memphis Grizzles guard Ja Morant (12) brings the ball up the court during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports 2022 NBA Playoffs: Boston Celtics vs. Milwaukee Bucks playoff schedule and prediction by Scott Rogust The
5:08 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers said after the team’s practice Saturday that he didn’t have any second thoughts about Joel Embiid being in the game when he suffered a right facial fracture and mild concussion from an elbow by Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam with 3:58 to go in Philadelphia’s
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 27: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after he thought he was fouled by the Denver Nuggetsin the second half during Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Chase Center on April 27, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly
1:29 PM ET BOSTON — Celtics star Jaylen Brown plans to play in Sunday’s Game 1 against the Milwaukee Bucks as he battles a right hamstring injury. Brown aggravated the injury Monday in his team’s close-out Game 4 victory over the Brooklyn Nets and needed the time off and treatment between series to be able
WNBA superstar Skylar-Diggins Smith illustrates the value of brand-building in women’s sports as players continue to fight for equal pay and representation. Who is the face of the WNBA? It’s impossible to choose one woman to represent the entire brand of American professional basketball over its 26-year history. Perhaps that’s why the WNBA still hasn’t
Chris Herring’s Blood in the Garden is a well-researched work that captures the tenacity of the 1990s Knicks in all its feral glory The New York Knicks of the 1990s continually found themselves intersecting with greatness. In the words of Chris Herring, whose debut book Blood In the Garden covers those teams, “They were a brute-force
11:59 PM ET MINNEAPOLIS — A first-round series highlighted by dramatic Grizzlies comebacks, poster dunks, foul trouble, and a healthy serving of trash talk came to a close in Game 6 on Friday night, as Memphis eliminated the Minnesota Timberwolves 114-106 with yet another impressive rally. The Grizzlies advanced to the conference semifinals for the
Apr 28, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) gestures as he speaks with team mates in the first half against the Toronto Raptors during game six of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports Watch Dustin Poirier name the second round
Magic Johnson is indelibly linked with the Lakers. But he wasn’t necessarily a slam-dunk draft pick. What if the Lakers took Sidney Moncrief instead? OK, fine, let’s address the Winning Time imbroglio since the latest edition of “What If…” ties into the popular HBO dramatic series, which completes its first season on Sunday, May 8.
The New Orleans Pelicans return home, looking to take a 2-1 series lead over the Devin Booker-less Phoenix Suns with a Game 3 win on Apr. 22. The Phoenix Suns and New Orleans Pelicans first-round series is officially tied at one game apiece. Phoenix, the reigning Western Conference champions, took Game 1 by the score
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. Of all the shocking trends we’ve seen so far in the first round of the playoffs (and there have been more than a few) the New Orleans Pelicans splitting
8:57 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN The Philadelphia 76ers announced Friday evening that superstar center Joel Embiid will be out indefinitely after suffering a right facial fracture and mild concussion in Philadelphia’s dominant Game 6 win over the Toronto Raptors. Embiid, who had 33 points and 10 rebounds in 36 minutes in the win, suffered 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 second round of the playoffs will kick off this weekend, with the Timberwolves and Grizzlies as the lone first-round series still in progress. To break down some of
The Minnesota Timberwolves seemingly had Game 3 won, but then an epic comeback by the Memphis Grizzlies happened. For those of you who walked away from your televisions thinking that the Minnesota Timberwolves had Game 3 secured, please sit down. We need to inform you about some news. The Memphis Grizzlies had an epic comeback
Apr 21, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane (22) talks to fans during a gamne against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the fourth quarter during game one of the three round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports 11 best viral tweets from Timberwolves historic collapse
8:30 AM ET NBA Insiders The NBA first-round playoff series between the Memphis Grizzlies and Minnesota Timberwolves has the makings of an all-time classic. We’ve seen young superstars Ja Morant and Anthony Edwards take their games to new heights — literally, in Morant’s case — Karl-Anthony Towns letting it fly from deep and some massive
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. Last week on The Whiteboard, I began the annual exercise of examining the offensive style of each team using the same NBA offensive style charts I’ve been building for
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – APRIL 08: Khris Middleton #22 of the Milwaukee Bucks handles the ball against the Detroit Pistons during the third quarter at Little Caesars Arena on April 08, 2022 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the
Apr 27, 2022; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives for the basket against Chicago Bulls forward Javonte Green (24) during the first quarter during game five of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports Devin Booker injury: Will Suns star play
10:12 PM ET NEW ORLEANS — With the top-seeded Phoenix Suns in some danger with one star hurt and an ascendant Pelicans team giving them problems, future Hall of Famer Chris Paul delivered a signature series performance, including the best shooting game of his career to finish the close out. Riding his favorite play, Paul
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 17: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns reacts during the first half of Game One of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Footprint Center on April 17, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 27: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors hugs Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets after Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Chase Center on April 27, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading
Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade is clearly supporting Jimmy Butler in the playoffs with a ringing endorsement of his 3-point shot. The Miami Heat are currently on a hot streak to open up the NBA Playoffs, boasting a 2-0 record over the Atlanta Hawks. Yet no player shines quite as brightly as Jimmy Butler, who
Game 5 of the Heat vs. Hawks NBA Playoffs series is on tap with Miami one victory away from advancing and Atlanta holding on for dear life. While Atlanta didn’t get the two victories they needed on their home floor, they got the one they needed to push things back to Miami. Now, Game 5
5:47 PM ET Adrian Wojnarowski Close Senior NBA Insider Host of The Woj Pod Joined ESPN in 2017 Brian Windhorst Close ESPN Senior Writer ESPN.com NBA writer since 2010 Covered Cleveland Cavs for seven years Author of two books NEW ORLEANS — Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker will return for his team’s Game 6 against
Tyrese Maxey and Jordan Poole are two of the NBA playoffs’ emerging stars, plus Luka Doncic’s return throws the Mavericks into a mini-identity crisis. The NBA playoffs have a way of testing first-timers in a way nothing else really can. The difference in focus, intensity and execution between the regular season and postseason has arguably
Ja Morant trolled the Minnesota Timberwolves following the Memphis Grizzlies’ epic Game 3 comeback victory. The Minnesota Timberwolves had to be feeling well entering the fourth quarter, as they had a 98-percent chance of winning Game 3 of their first-round series against the Memphis Grizzlies. Instead, they were outscored by 25 points and lost 104-95
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – APRIL 26: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at FedExForum on April 26, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is
10:11 PM ET Jamal CollierESPN MILWAUKEE — The Bucks lost forward Khris Middleton to a sprained MCL and responded with three consecutive victories over the Chicago Bulls, advancing to the second round of the NBA playoffs with a 116-100 win in Game 5 on Wednesday. The Bucks will play the Celtics in the second round;
The Atlanta Hawks’ run in the playoffs lasted one round, as they were eliminated by the Miami Heat. Here are three players who likely won’t be back next season. The Atlanta Hawks had to get through the play-in tournament to clinch a spot in the playoffs. They did just that, defeating the Charlotte Hornets and
With news that Jay Wright is reportedly retiring at Villanova, Lakers fans were hoping he was Los Angeles bound. Insiders offered an immediate answer. Reaffirming what was already factual, Jay Wright led the Villanova Wildcats to another Final Four appearance this past season before being eliminated by the eventual national champion Kansas Jayhawks. Still, the
Shaquille O’Neal (Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Pepsi Stronger Together) How different will Wimbledon look with no Russians or Belarusians? Fans call for slam boycott by Veronica Elizabeth Bruno When it comes to potentially coaching the Los Angeles Lakers, Shaquille O’Neal named his price. After finishing the 2021-22 season 11th-place in the Western Conference, the Los
12:45 AM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — Stephen Curry dribbled through nearly the entire Denver Nuggets team before putting up the perfect tear-drop layup to put the Warriors up with 30 seconds left in the game Wednesday night. As he came down the court, he looked at the audience and clasped his hands under
MIAMI, FLORIDA – JANUARY 15: Head coach Erik Spoelstra and Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat look on against the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half at FTX Arena on January 15, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is
The Milwaukee Bucks will look to close out their first round series with the Chicago Bulls with a Game 5 win on Wednesday, Apr. 27. The Milwaukee Bucks are looking to win back-to-back NBA titles. Their first road block of accomplishing that goal came in the form of their rivals, the Chicago Bulls. The Bucks
7:08 PM ET Phoenix Suns All-Star guard Devin Booker is progressing on a return soon, possibly for Game 6 on Thursday or a potential Game 7 on Saturday in the franchise’s Western Conference first-round playoff series against the New Orleans Pelicans, sources told ESPN. Booker has made significant progress with his strained right hamstring in
Ja Morant’s heroics led the Memphis Grizzlies to a huge Game 5 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. That caught the attention of LeBron James and NFL stars. The Memphis Grizzlies hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5, searching to take a pivotal 3-2 series lead. Things certainly looked bleak for Memphis, as they trailed 85-74
10:35 AM ET Jamal CollierESPN Chicago Bulls guards Zach LaVine (health and safety protocols) and Alex Caruso (concussion protocol) will both miss Game 5 on Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bulls were hoping either player’s health would approve ahead of their win-or-go-home game in Milwaukee, but they downgraded both guards on their injury
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. Last week on The Whiteboard, I began the annual exercise of examining the offensive style of each team using the same NBA offensive style charts I’ve been building for
10:20 PM ET MIAMI — The Heat were missing two of their starters yet hardly missed a beat in Tuesday’s 97-94 Game 5 win over the Atlanta Hawks to advance to the second round. With Kyle Lowry sidelined since late in the third quarter of Game 3 with a left hamstring strain and Jimmy Butler
Apr 21, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) dad Tee Morant talks to Minnesota Timberwolves guard D’Angelo Russell (0) in the fourth quarter during game one of the three round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports Memphis Grizzlies: Whoop that trick meaning, explained
When Charles Barkley called Kevin Durant a “bus rider” on NBA championship teams, Durant said it all with photos of Barkley’s own former teams. Criticism deserves context: only the greatest players in NBA history have the right to call out fellow players if their game is lacking. Though Charles Barkley is absolutely qualified to comment
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry. (Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports) Ja Morant buried entire state of Minnesota with tweet after comeback vs. Timberwolves by Scott Rogust Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry made a fan’s day when he stopped to sign her jersey before Thursday’s playoff game. Steph Curry makes fans dreams come true
Mar 8, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) gestures during the fourth quarter against the LA Clippers at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports UFC Vegas 53: Yohan Lainesse is the fighter to watch by Curtis Calhoun Packers targeting massive trade to get Aaron Rodgers an elite
4:00 PM ET MIAMI — Heat star Jimmy Butler has been ruled out of Game 5 of Miami’s first-round series against the Atlanta Hawks because of right knee inflammation, the team announced on Tuesday afternoon about three hours before tipoff. Butler had been dominant in the series thus far, averaging 30.5 points on 54.3% shooting
Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports The 2021-22 NBA regular season has come and gone, but who are the players that led each team in total dunks? And which teams had the most and the least amount of dunks? The NBA’s 75th Anniversary season featured 11,111 total dunks that occurred in 1,230 regular-season games. After counting down the
8:00 AM ET NBA Insiders The first round of the playoffs is barely a week old and has already packed in plenty of intrigue. The Boston Celtics became the first team to advance to the second round when they completed a sweep of the Brooklyn Nets on Monday. If the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks win
The Brooklyn Nets are “exasperated” by the Ben Simmons injury saga after the star guard was ruled out of Game 4 vs. the Celtics, per Brian Windhorst. By trading James Harden for Ben Simmons, the Nets have apparently traded one problem for another. Simmons has yet to suit up for Brooklyn. He’s been missing because
Apr 16, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) dribbles the ball in warmups before game one of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Denver Nuggets at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports 76ers steamroll Raptors for 2-0 series lead: Best memes and
2:10 AM ET Mike D’Antoni was watching the Brooklyn Nets‘ season-ending loss to the Boston Celtics Monday night from his living room in Austin, Texas, a world away from the drama his protégé, Nets coach Steve Nash, had just lived through. A year ago, D’Antoni had been on the Nets bench alongside Nash as the
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – APRIL 20: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets helps up Kevin Durant #7 during the fourth quarter of Game Two of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on April 20, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeat the Nets 114-107. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) Joel Embiid
BRAZIL – 2022/04/11: In this photo illustration, the official profile of Elon Musk on the social network Twitter. The billionaire Elon Musk bought 9% of Twitter, an investment of USD 3 billion. (Photo Illustration by Rafael Henrique/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) Reds executive apologizes to fans weeks after the fact by Eric Treuden Athletes react
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – APRIL 23: Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz celebrates a basket during the second half of Game Four of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs against the Dallas Mavericks at Vivint Smart Home Arena on April 23, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges
The Utah Jazz have an opportunity to prove they belong and get ahead of the Dallas Mavericks. How will Game 5 play out? After an exciting win over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 4, the Utah Jazz are seeking an opportunity to get a lead in this NBA Playoffs series. That’ll be easier said than
6:44 PM ET Ja Morant has been named the NBA’s most improved player after a season in which the Memphis Grizzlies point guard went from future star to superstar. In his third year, Morant was named an All-Star starter and averaged career bests of 27.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game to go along with
Here is how to watch all three NBA playoff games on the schedule for Monday, April 25. The intensity will be high as the first round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs are starting to wind down. After a full slate of four games on Sunday, basketball fans everywhere will be able to enjoy three playoff hoops
Scottie Barnes of the Toronto Raptors won the 2021-22 NBA Rookie of the Year award. But was Cleveland Cavaliers rookie Evan Mobley robbed of the award? With the NBA Playoffs commencing, the league announced the winners of some of their year-end awards, such as Defensive Player of the Year. On Saturday, Apr. 23, the league
8:00 AM ET AN EIGHT- OR nine-figure subplot hovers over Jalen Brunson‘s star rise during these NBA playoffs. Brunson, the other guard the Dallas Mavericks landed in the 2018 draft, is poised to enter unrestricted free agency this summer. Suffice it to say that the price to retain his services, a priority for the Mavs,
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – APRIL 23: Patrick Beverley #22 of the Minnesota Timberwolves drives to the basket while Desmond Bane #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies defends in the second quarter of the game during Game Four of the Western Conference First Round at Target Center on April 23, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User
The Chicago Bulls look to take a 2-1 series lead over the division rival Milwaukee Bucks in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference playoff series on Friday night. After stealing Game 2 on the road, the Chicago Bulls are hoping to keep the positive momentum in their direction when they host the Central Division rival Milwaukee Bucks on Friday
Michael Jordan was so ruthless with the “advice” he gave Magic Johnson way back in 1996. After spending five years out of the league because of his HIV diagnosis, Magic Johnson got some hard-hitting advice from none other than Michael Jordan upon his return to the NBA in 1996. When Johnson had to retire prematurely in
2:16 AM ET NEW ORLEANS — Normally low-key by design, Phoenix Suns coach Monty Williams had cutting remarks about the officiating after the New Orleans Pelicans took Game 4 on Sunday to even the first-round series at 2-2. The Pelicans shot 42 free throws to the Suns’ 15 and it was a 17-2 disparity in
Ben Simmons, Brooklyn Nets. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) Cris Cyborg blasts PFL’s Donn Davis after slight by Chad Porto Ben Simmons was destroyed on Twitter for missing the Brooklyn Nets playoff game yet again. The last time Ben Simmons played in a basketball game that mattered, he quit on the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Minnesota Timberwolves (Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports) Patchy Mix upsets Kyoji Horiguchi in thriller Bantamweight Grand Prix opener by Chad Porto NBA Twitter couldn’t believe another protester made it onto the court during the Grizzlies-Timberwolves NBA Playoffs series, but some see it as a good omen. Just call this the playoffs of protests for the Minnesota
5:06 PM ET Within hours of his planned season debut, Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons reported a return of back soreness on Sunday and has been ruled out for Monday’s Game 4 against the Boston Celtics, sources told ESPN. After approximately 10 days of pain-free ramp up following recovery from a herniated disc, Simmons’ admission
Here is how to watch all four NBA playoff games on the schedule for Sunday, April 24. While the first round of the NBA Playoffs is starting to wind down, the intensity is only amplifying as eight teams are looking to advance to their respective conference semifinals. With every playoff game having at least a day off
Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets. (Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) How many games are in the first round of the NBA Playoffs? by Patrick Schmidt Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant had a miserable performance in Game 2 against the Celtics and NBA Twitter won’t let him live it down. The Nets fell down 0-2 in
Apr 23, 2022; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) drives past Brooklyn Nets forward Nic Claxton (33) in the first quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports MLB Twitter in disbelief as Rays blow no-hitter, still get walk-off win vs. Red Sox by Alicia de Artola Ben Simmons
8:00 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN WHILE THE NBA world waited on the offseason’s biggest drama, Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers pondered the future of a point guard not named Ben Simmons. When Rivers met with his coaches ahead of the 2021-22 season to discuss lineups, he made a bold declaration: No matter what happened with
After an embarrassing loss in Game 3, can the Minnesota Timberwolves find a way to even the series back up against the Memphis Grizzlies? The Memphis Grizzlies just made an incredible comeback to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves. Game 3 was remarkable in so many ways that folks in Minnesota won’t be all that fond of. But,
The Boston Celtics are carrying a 2-0 lead into Game 3 against the Brooklyn Nets. Will the Nets be able to defend their home court and get a win? As the series shifts up to Brooklyn, the Boston Celtics are holding an impressive 2-0 lead over Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and the rest of the
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum. (Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports) Ben Simmons getting clowned by NBA Twitter for another ridiculous outfit by Ethan Lee The Boston Celtics took a 3-0 lead over the Nets in the NBA Playoffs on Saturday, prompting dreams of a sweep and criticism of Brooklyn. When Game 1 ended with a thrilling
1:14 AM ET NEW YORK — Brooklyn Nets star forward Kevin Durant admitted Saturday night that he has been “thinking too much” throughout the first-round series against the Boston Celtics and that it has been a factor in his poor play. After being held to 16 points on 6-of-11 shooting in a 109-103 loss the
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid. (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) USC football fans will love what Matt Leinart said about Lincoln Riley by Alicia de Artola Tyson Fury TKOs Dillian Whyte in round 6 with uppercut (Video) by Jeremy Herriges Joel Embiid gave a round of applause to the referees after the Philadelphia 76ers’ Game 4
LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 01: LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers walks off the court after warming up before the basketball game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Crypto.com Arena on April 1, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this
Apr 15, 2022; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) waves to fans after a win against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports Bellator 277: Linton Vassell pulls off miraculous first-round comeback over Tim Johnson (Video) by Curtis Calhoun The Atlanta Hawks have clinched the eighth-seed
Apr 22, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; An announcement on an arena video board before the game between the Miami Heat against the Atlanta Hawks prior to game three of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports 76ers vs. Raptors: TV channel, live stream, prediction,
1:45 PM ET Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes has been named the 2021-2022 NBA Rookie of the Year, the league announced Saturday. Barnes received 378 points (48 first-place votes). Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley finished in second place with 363 points (43 first-place votes). The 15-point difference between the first- and second-place finishers is the
Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks. (Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports) NC State baseball: Tommy Tanks slugs home run out of Louisville’s stadium by Ethan Lee Aaron Rodgers seemingly tweeted out his reaction to the Milwaukee Bucks blowing out the Chicago Bulls in Game 3. The Chicago Bulls earned their first playoff
12:14 AM ET ATLANTA — Miami Heat point guard Kyle Lowry suffered a left hamstring injury in the third quarter of the Hawks’ 111-110 Game 3 victory on Friday night. He could only watch from the bench as Atlanta, the Eastern Conference’s No. 8 seed, erased a double-digit deficit to draw within 2-1 of the
James Borrego, Charlotte Hornets. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) Former Vikings GM says Drake London struggles in one key area by John Buhler The Charlotte Hornets have shockingly fired head coach James Borrego after four seasons. James Borrego will not get a fifth year at the helm in the Queen City, as the Charlotte Hornets fired their
After battling injuries all regular season, the Warriors are finally healthy and firing on all cylinders. Plus — a worrying trend for the Utah Jazz. Until the start of the playoffs, the promise of the Golden State Warriors was mostly theoretical. Here was a potential juggernaut kept under wraps all year by injury, unable to
Dwyane Wade may be best known for his titles with the Miami Heat, but the former NBA All-Star is also a part-owner of the Utah Jazz. Dwyane Wade made an impact on the basketball court as a player. He made waves off it with his fashion choices. He’s judged America’s Got Talent and been a
2:19 AM ET Andrew LopezESPN NEW ORLEANS — The Point God was at it again. Just five days after Chris Paul scored 19 fourth-quarter points to will the Phoenix Suns to a Game 1 victory, Paul scored 19 fourth-quarter points again on Friday night to lead the top-seeded Suns to a 114-111 win over the
The Dallas Mavericks look to extend their first-round series lead over the Utah Jazz to 3-1 with a Game 4 win on Saturday, Apr. 23. No Luka Doncic, no problem for the Dallas Mavericks. Without their star player available due to a calf injury, the initial thought as that Dallas would struggle against the Utah
Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) Charlotte Hornets make shocking decision to fire James Borrego by John Buhler With Devin Booker ruled out for Game 3 against the New Orleans Pelicans, Cam Johnson may be next up to start in his place. Devin Booker will miss Game 3 against
TORONTO, ON – APRIL 20: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers holds back Danny Green #14 as he yells at a referee in the first half of Game Three of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on April 20, 2022 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly
The Philadelphia 76ers look to complete the sweep of the Toronto Raptors with a Game 4 victory on Saturday, Apr. 23. The Toronto Raptors are on the verge of being the first team eliminated from the NBA Playoffs, as they face an 0-3 deficit to the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite returning home to Toronto and the
5:20 PM ET Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is experiencing significant pain and discomfort in his right thumb and could get an MRI in the near future to determine whether there is ligament damage, sources told ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Adrian Wojnarowski. Despite the discomfort, Embiid practiced on Friday and expects to play in Game
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 first round of the NBA Playoffs are moving quickly with several teams already facing elimination as soon as this weekend. To break down some of the biggest questions
8:00 AM ET JUST ACROSS THE street from FTX Arena, on a billboard space that was regularly occupied by Dwyane Wade during his legendary Miami Heat tenure, Tyler Herro is all angles, pictured in a Hudson Jeans advertisement dribbling a basketball, wearing a short-sleeved black T-shirt, ripped black jeans and black boots. Inside the arena
Ben Simmons #10 of the Brooklyn Nets . (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) Alex Morgan raising the standards, as a professional athlete and a mom by Mark Carman Kevin Durant explains Celtics’ defense: ‘two or three guys hitting me’ by Sapphires Sealey Fans may finally get to see Ben Simmons make his Brooklyn Nets debut for
12:47 AM ET MINNEAPOLIS — In one of the most dramatic comebacks in NBA postseason history, the Memphis Grizzlies clawed their way out of a 26-point hole on Thursday night to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves 104-95. Improbably, the Grizzlies now lead the best-of-seven first-round series 2-1. “We all know the game is never over until
The Miami Heat have a 2-0 series lead over the Atlanta Hawks, and look to make it 3-0 with a Game 3 win on Friday. The Miami Heat entered the NBA Playoffs as the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks earned the eighth seed after defeating the Charlotte Hornets and
Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) Ben Simmons could make his Nets’ debut at home in Game 4 by Sapphires Sealey Kevin Durant has not been his best offensively in the first two games of the Brooklyn Nets-Boston Celtics series. He explained why. Kevin Durant has not been himself
6:48 PM ET Milwaukee Bucks star Khris Middleton will miss the rest of the opening-round playoff series against the Chicago Bulls due to a sprained medial collateral ligament in his left knee, sources told ESPN on Thursday. Middleton will be re-evaluated in two weeks when a timeline on his possible return in these playoffs —
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. In yesterday’s installment of The Whiteboard, I began the annual exercise of examining the offensive style of each team using the same NBA offensive style charts I’ve been building
Chris Paul has had the worst luck in playoff games refereed by Scott Foster, and last night his luck did not change. The Chris Paul, Scott Foster playoff curse continues. Last night, Paul added another loss for playoff games he has been in that were refereed by Scott Foster. The New Orleans Pelicans beat the
Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker had to leave Game 2 against the Pelicans with a hamstring injury and he’s likely to miss more game time. The Suns were riding high after a Game 1 blowout over the Pelicans but things have definitely taken a turn for the worse since. New Orleans evened the series with
8:00 AM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN JUST SEVEN MONTHS ago, one of the most important role players on a club desperate to return to its dynastic reign and the son of the legendary Seattle Supersonics’ Gary Payton, was preparing to apply for a desk job in the team’s video department. Seven months ago. Gary Payton II,
Aaron Rodgers No. 12 of the Green Bay Packers. (Dylan Buell/Getty Images) Joel Embiid talked s**t to Drake after sinking game-winning shot vs. Raptors [Video] by Patrick Schmidt Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers doesn’t just attend Milwaukee games as a fan. He’s a minority owner of the Bucks. If you caught Packers stars Aaron
TORONTO, ON – APRIL 20: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers puts up a shot over Precious Achiuwa #5 and Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors in the final seconds of overtime in Game Three of the Eastern Conference First Round at Scotiabank Arena on April 20, 2022 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO
TORONTO, ON – APRIL 20: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers holds his thumb in the second half of Game Three of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on April 20, 2022 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or
11:41 PM ET Brianna Williams Joel Embiid knows what it’s like to be losing on the side of a go-ahead 3-pointer in the NBA playoffs, but that wasn’t the case on Wednesday night. The Philadelphia 76ers star splashed a turnaround three with under one second remaining in overtime to secure a 104-101 win against the
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 18: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors poses for a picture with Grateful Dead musician Bob Weir following Game Two of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Denver Nuggets at Chase Center on April 18, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly
Cleveland Cavaliers’ President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman, spoke on Collin Sexton’s future with the team The Cleveland Cavaliers‘ season ended with a play-in game loss to the Atlanta Hawks. But now that their season is over, the front office has some decisions to make, and one of those decisions has to do with the
2:43 PM ET Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker is likely to miss Games 3 and 4 against the New Orleans Pelicans with a mild right hamstring strain, but he hasn’t been ruled out for the rest of the opening-round Western Conference series, sources told ESPN. The Suns were still evaluating results of an MRI on
The NBA’s regular season has come and gone, but an important question remains: What are the top 10 power dunks of the 2021-22 season? The NBA’s 75th Anniversary regular season commenced on Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021, and concluded on Sunday, April 10, 2022. The season featured 1,230 regular-season games across those six months. According to
3:27 AM ET Andrew LopezESPN PHOENIX — Before every game when his team is doing pregame handshakes, New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. has a message for Brandon Ingram. “You’re the best player on the floor,” Nance tells him. Nance and Ingram were teammates on the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2016-17 season and
DENVER, CO – FEBRUARY 23: Head coach George Karl of the Sacramento Kings talks to DeMarcus Cousins (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) Freddie Freeman gets emotional before facing the Braves for the first time by Rylie Smith Former Sacramento Kings Coach George Karl responded to comments DeMarcus Cousins made regarding his time with the team.
12:18 AM ET PHOENIX — After a prolific 31-point first half, Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker was forced from his team’s playoff game against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday with right hamstring tightness. Booker appeared to suffer an injury with 4:30 left in the third quarter after challenging a Jaxson Hayes dunk in transition.
Apr 18, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) reacts with forward Tobias Harris (12) after a score and one against the Toronto Raptors during the first quarter in game two of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports Freddie Freeman
In Joel Embiid’s postgame interview, following the Philadelphia 76ers’ win over the Toronto Raptors, he spoke about what was said to Nick Nurse. During the NBA playoffs, it is expected for players to heckle their opponents. It is a high-intensity atmosphere, and it often brings out the best in the players. Most would expect 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 Hawks used a balanced effort to knock off the Hornets last night, with six different players scoring in double-figures and five players knocking down multiple 3-pointers. They’ll face
Will the New Orleans Pelicans have Zion Williamson available for the NBA Playoffs? Opinions differ on the star big man’s return to the lineup. Three years ago, the Pelicans drafted Zion Williamson with hopes of the Duke star leading them to playoff glory. They’ve made it to the postseason for the first time in his
5:09 PM ET BOSTON — Brooklyn Nets swingman Ben Simmons has been cleared for contact as he continues to make his way back from a back injury that has prevented him from playing since he was acquired from the Philadelphia 76ers just before February’s trade deadline. Nets head coach Steve Nash ruled Simmons out of
DALLAS, TEXAS – APRIL 18: Jalen Brunson #13 of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket against Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz in the fourth quarter of Game Two of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Center on April 18, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – JANUARY 13: De’Anthony Melton #0 of the Memphis Grizzlies Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Anthony Edwards #1 of the Minnesota Timberwolves battle for the the ball during the first half at FedExForum on January 13, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by
Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images Watch: Randy Arozarena launches bat after 2 awful calls in same at-bat by Mark Powell ESPN had some audio issues during Game 1 of the Minnesota Timberwolves vs Memphis Grizzlies series, and NBA Twitter had enough. With all due respect to the Utah Jazz vs Dallas Mavericks series, there was
8:00 AM ET Andrew LopezESPN IT WAS AN early April evening, and the Miami Heat had just gone up by 18 points with 1:36 to play against the Chicago Bulls. It was time to call it. So when coach Erik Spoelstra looked down his bench, he called out a familiar name. Udonis Haslem, now 41
SANTA MONICA, CA – JUNE 25: (L-R) Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson Jr., Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley speak onstage at the 2018 NBA Awards at Barkar Hangar on June 25, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Turner Sports) Twitter thread shows Patrick Mahomes might be better businessman than QB by
Jul 20, 2021; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Phoenix Suns XXXX against the Milwaukee Bucks during game six of the 2021 NBA Finals at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Jul 20, 2021; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks XXXX against the Phoenix Suns during game six of the 2021 NBA Finals at Fiserv Forum.
1:11 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN PHILADELPHIA — 76ers star Joel Embiid heard Toronto Raptors coach Nick Nurse complain about the way Embiid was officiated in the opener of the teams’ first-round playoff series on Saturday night. So, after Embiid finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and went 12-for-14 from the free throw line — taking
Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) Celtics take Game 1: Best memes and tweets about insane ending by Alicia de Artola Check out this fan angle of the Jayson Tatum game-winner for the Boston Celtics on Sunday. Jayson Tatum lifted the Boston Celtics past the division rival Brooklyn Nets in the final seconds.
Kyrie Irving returned to Boston for the first day of the playoffs on Sunday, and he was not given a warm welcome. The Brooklyn Nets point guard and shooting guard Kyrie Irving returned to the TD Garden in Boston for the Playoffs on Sunday. He’s a former Boston Celtics player, and his return to the
The top-seeded Miami Heat are ready to make a run for the NBA Finals and the journey begins with a first-round showdown against Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks. After an impressive showing in the regular season, all eyes are on the Miami Heat to see if this team can live up to their No.
Jan 21, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) and Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) fight for the ball on the court during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports Look: Georgia football players show off national championship rings at G-Day by John Buhler Atlanta
5:16 PM ET MIAMI — A couple of hours after the Miami Heat opened up their postseason run with a dominant 115-91 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday, the NBA announced the finalists for the 2021-22 regular-season awards. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra was named one of the top three candidates for Coach of the
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 12: Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets dribbles against Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the Eastern Conference 2022 Play-In Tournament at Barclays Center on April 12, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Nets won 115-108. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges
So far, the Timberwolves are two-for-two in fan protests this postseason, if you count the play-in. So, why are fans against Glen Taylor? Timberwolves protest, explained. Taylor sold the Timberwolves to a new group of owners, that of which includes former baseball star Alex Rodriguez. However, he is still connected to the franchise for now.
Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns. (Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports) Errol Spence Jr. vs. Yordenis Ugás live results and highlights by Jeremy Herriges The fathers of Ja Morant and Karl-Anthony Towns shared some friendly banter after Game 1 between the Grizzlies and Timberwolves. Ja Morant and Karl-Anthony Towns have a rivalry on the court to worry
8:00 AM ET If NBA fans outside of Pennsylvania didn’t know the name Tyrese Maxey, they sure do now. While the Toronto Raptors were keying in on superstars Joel Embiid and James Harden, the Philadelphia 76ers‘ second-year guard was showcasing why he is such an important player in their success with 38 points in a
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – FEBRUARY 15: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the third quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on February 15, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms
Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports As the Los Angeles Lakers come off one of the worst seasons in franchise history, there are several questions they need to address. The team that won the NBA Finals two years ago has headed downhill, after coming off one of the worst seasons in franchise history. After being eliminated by
Boston Celtics GM Brad Stevens Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports Bud Light offers to set up Patrick Beverley with post-game beverages by Sapphires Sealey Brad Stevens did not hesitate to shoot down the idea of him taking over the head coaching position with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Los Angeles Lakers are on
8:49 PM ET BOSTON — Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving said he was responding to words he heard from the crowd when he flipped off several Boston Celtics fans on two separate occasions during Sunday’s 115-114 loss in Game 1. After the game, Irving made it clear that he would have “the same energy for
Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets, Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) Jayson Tatum game winner: Celtics steal show from Kyrie Irving, Nets by Mark Powell Brooklyn Nets star guard Kyrie Irving absolutely hates everything about the Boston Celtics. The pure unrivaled disdain Kyrie Irving of the Brooklyn Nets has for the Boston Celtics is
MIAMI, FLORIDA – APRIL 17: Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat fouls Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks during the first half in Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round at FTX Arena on April 17, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and
1:55 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 DALLAS — Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic remains unlikely to play in
Despite leading by 10 points entering the fourth quarterback, the Clippers blew their double-digit lead to the Pelicans. The NBA is a game of runs, and the Pels were lucky that their surge was best saved for last. Despite holding a 15-point lead of their own in the second quarter, the Pelicans answer with a
There are two early suitors that could be interested in acquiring guard Russell Westbrook from the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason. The Los Angeles Lakers were expected to be contending for the Larry O’Brien Trophy at the end of the 2021-22 regular season, especially after they brought in guard Russell Westbrook. Instead, the team failed
3:40 AM ET Kendra AndrewsESPN SAN FRANCISCO — The Golden State Warriors have a long-standing history of small-ball lineups. During the first championship run of their dynastic era, their small lineup was so lethal it was dubbed the “death lineup.” It has gone through a few different renditions since then, but as the Warriors embark
Adam Silver, NBA Draft. (Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports) Pelicans advance: Best memes and tweets after another Clippers meltdown by Mark Powell With the NBA play-in tournament behind us and only the postseason to look forward to, the Draft order is set for all teams that did not make the playoffs. The Clippers held
4:00 PM ET The 2022 NBA playoffs have finally arrived! After an unprecedented regular season, featuring some of the closes races in recent memory, Saturday marks the beginning of what each of these 16 teams hope will be a two-month march to the NBA championship. In the Western Conference, Donovan Mitchell and the No. 5
- 1
- 2
- 3
- …
- 15
- Next Page »