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
Month: May 2022
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