Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images 5 players the Browns need to play well to beat Chiefs by John Buhler The Cleveland Cavaliers have been active this offseason and rumors are they’re still pursuing one more trade, for the Philadelphia 76ers’ Ben Simmons. At this point, we’ve heard just about every possible permutation of a Ben
Aug 22, 2020; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA; Indiana Pacers forward T.J. Warren (1) dribbles against the Miami Heat during the second half of Game 3 of an NBA basketball first-round playoff series at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Michigan football depth chart: Who replaces Ronnie Bell in starting lineup? by John
7:09 AM ET IN HIS 30 YEARS in the spotlight, Chris Webber has rarely allowed anyone outside his circle to know exactly who the real Chris Webber is. It’s not surprising. Despite a decorated career — first as a high school All-American, then as a member of the Fab Five at Michigan, a five-time NBA
In Wednesday night’s WNBA games, the Phoenix Mercury are playing against the Atlanta Dream and the Minnesota Lynx are facing the Las Vegas Aces; free WNBA picks today are available. All table odds were retrieved from Bovada. The Mercury-Dream matchup begins at 7 p.m. ET inside the Gateway Center Arena. Phoenix are nine-point favorites. For
Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban revealed that he almost acquired Boston Celtics star Paul Pierce. Paul Pierce, who is set to be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame this weekend, spent the majority of his 19-year career with the Boston Celtics, the team who drafted him and the organization he helped win the
Varese vs. Sassari is the 2021 Italy Super Cup matchup, and the game begins Wednesday, Sept. 8th at 1 p.m. EST. According to oddsmakers at Bet365, Sassari are 4.5-point favorites over Varese in tomorrow’s thriller inside Enerxenia Arena. The total is also set at 166.5. Additionally, Sassari have a projected first-half spread of 2.5. Yesterday,
After years as the inferior conference, there seems to be some optimism that the East may be deeper than the West this season. After a fast and furious summer that included trades, the draft and free agency, the landscape of the league has changed quite a bit in the span of just a couple of
10-time All-Star and retired Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce was fired from his ESPN analyst job earlier in May. After Pierce was caught filming strippers at a house party during an Instagram live stream while drunk and high on drugs, that was the final straw for the sports network. Leading up to this event, the
Free agent forward Stanley Johnson is signing a contract with the Chicago Bulls. In the 2020-21 NBA season, the 25-year-old averaged 4.4 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in 61 games played on the Toronto Raptors. This was an improvement over his 2.4 points-per-game average in the 2019-20 season. Shooting-wise, he averaged a
6:22 PM ET Free-agent forward Alize Johnson has agreed on a two-year, $3.6 million deal with the Chicago Bulls, his agent, George Langberg, told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski on Monday. The loss of Thaddeus Young and Lauri Markkanen this offseason created a need for frontcourt depth and an opportunity for Johnson to crack the Bulls’ rotation.
NBA executives are discussing the possibility of awarding forfeited draft picks to various competitors, such as top contenders. The goal here is to help struggling young players. Similar to the new draft lottery system, this will open the door to many changes—whether positive or negative for some teams—across the league. Needless to say, it will
As the Lakers move toward officially adding DeAndre Jordan, what does it mean for Marc Gasol? The Los Angeles Lakers are building a lineup of big names this offseason (Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, Rajon Rondo), with age nothing but number in the pursuit of titles. Now, after the Nets traded him to the
8:00 AM ET After electing a star-studded Class of 2020 — led by NBA legends Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett and the late Kobe Bryant — the Basketball Hall of Fame will officially enshrine two classes in 2021. The full Class of 2020 was unveiled on April 4, 2020. The nine new members of the Basketball
Per sources, the Brooklyn Nets have traded center DeAndre Jordan, four second-round draft picks and $5.78 million to the Detroit Pistons for Jahlil Okafor and Sekou Doumbouya. The Pistons are planning to work out a contract buyout for the remaining two-years, $19.7 million owed to the 33-year-old. He was set to earn $9,881,598 next season
On April 15, 2021, Arizona state legislators passed House Bill 2772, ratifying the legalization of sports betting for retail and online access. Governor Doug Ducey signed the bill into law for gambling expansion within the state. For those interested, scheduled sign-ups for sportsbooks are available. The sports betting law allows a maximum of 20 sportsbooks
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. On Wednesday, it was announced that the Memphis Grizzlies have planned jersey retirement ceremonies this season for both Tony Allen and Zach Randolph. These two jersey retirements, and the
Anthony Davis, Dennis Schroder, Los Angeles Lakers. (Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) Lionel Messi vs. Cristiano Ronaldo: Who will win more this season? by Clemente Lisi Anthony Davis may have played a role in the Los Angeles Lakers not bringing back Dennis Schröder on a new contract this offseason. Anthony Davis and the rest of
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. As NBA offseason news slows to a trickle, one of the most fun stories to follow has been the comeback quests of a handful of veteran guards. Darren Collison,
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. Damian Lillard is committed to the Portland Trail Blazers. He’s been repeating this fact for months, using different words and different degrees of intensity but the core message has
Regarding the mounting Ben Simmons trade rumors across the NBA, Joel Embiid has finally broke his silence. “I love playing with Ben,” Embiid posted on Twitter. “Stats don’t lie. He’s an amazing player and we all didn’t get the job done. It’s on me personally.” That last part was a surprising comment. “I hope everyone
The Los Angeles Lakers already have their eye on DeAndre Jordan, who is likely heading for a buyout after being traded from the Nets to the Pistons. DeAndre Jordan could be on his way back to Los Angeles very soon, this time as a Laker. The Nets just traded the forward and four second-round NBA
1:28 PM ET Bryson Warren, the No. 14 basketball prospect in ESPN’s Class of 2023, has signed with Overtime Elite, the league told ESPN on Thursday. Warren is the eighth five-star recruit to sign with the upstart league. Considered one of the top guard prospects in the class, Warren shunned offers from Arkansas, Tennessee, Kansas,
According to oddsmakers via BetMGM sportsbook, the Golden State Warriors are now the official favorites to trade for Ben Simmons from the Philadelphia 76ers. Even the San Antonio Spurs could pursue a trade; the odds have now been updated. For a reminder, all bets are void if Simmons returns to the 76ers. However, that scenario
Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images College football scores: North Carolina on upset alert against Virginia Tech in raucous Blacksburg by Alicia de Artola Dodgers vs Giants MLB live stream reddit for NL West showdown by Mark Powell The Lakers signed 33-year-old DeAndre Jordan after he was traded to the Pistons and subsequently waived, further adding
12:53 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN The Memphis Grizzlies agreed to trade forward Juancho Hernangomez to the Boston Celtics on Friday in exchange for guards Carsen Edwards and Kris Dunn, as well as a swap of 2026 second-round picks, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The deal cannot be completed until September 15, when Dunn can be
Power forward Paul Millsap has agreed to a deal with the Brooklyn Nets. The 15-year veteran was also considering the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers and Chicago Bulls as well. In the 2020-21 NBA season, the four-time All-Star averaged nine points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game in 56 games played. Last season,
Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images Richard Seymour and other ex-Patriots react to sudden death of David Patten by Josh Hill In this episode of Over & Back, Jason Mann and Rich Kraetsch look at the quaint early days of NBA free agency. NBA free agency is an industry all to itself these days but
5:07 PM ET After retiring with heart concerns five months ago, seven-time All-Star forward LaMarcus Aldridge is returning to the Brooklyn Nets on a one-year, $2.6 million deal, his agent, Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports, told ESPN on Friday. Aldridge, 36, has been medically cleared by a number of doctors — including those both independent
Marcus Garrett has signed a two-way deal with the Miami Heat. On July 30, 2021, he originally signed an Exhibit-10 contract with the organization. After playing two games in the 2021 California Classic Summer League, the point guard averaged 10.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.9 blocks and a 77.8 field goal percentage. He led
UFC Vegas 36: A brief timeline leading Paddy Pimblett to the UFC by Curtis Calhoun It’s hard to determine what was better about the new Drake music video, Way 2 Sexy, featuring Kawhi Leonard — the memes or the tweets? It was a very good Friday for folks hoping to break up the Twitter doom
4:35 PM ET DeAndre Jordan intends to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers upon completion of a buyout with the Detroit Pistons, sources told ESPN on Friday. Jordan was traded by the Brooklyn Nets to the Pistons earlier Friday along with four second-round picks and $5.78 million for Jahlil Okafor and Sekou Doumbouya, sources said.
Seven-time All-Star LaMarcus Aldridge has been medically cleared to play for the upcoming 2021-22 NBA season. The 36-year-old retired from the Brooklyn Nets in April after dealing with an irregular heartbeat. On April 15, 2021, the player left a comment after his retirement: “Though I’m better now, what I felt with my heart that night
Jun 1, 2021; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Paul Millsap (4). Warms up before the game five against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports Yankee Stadium underwater after remnants of Hurricane Ida hit New York City by John
Nerlens Noel turned down a significant contract offer a few years ago, and now he’s suing former agent Rich Paul for some significant lost earnings. Rich Paul and is firm Klutch Sports has some high-profile clients he has served well (LeBron James, Ben Simmons, etc). But, per Darren Heitner of Sports Agent Blog, New York
8:00 AM ET All of them left the Lakers. And all five of them came back to Los Angeles. One of them is back for a second time. One took a decade to return. Three of them were champions with the franchise. All of them had unfinished business in L.A. Lakers vice president of basketball
Every player in the NBA has had a down year. If they haven’t, it is likely only a matter of time. It could be that they were trying to find their fit on a new team, battling injuries, or simply trying to do too much under immense pressure. Regardless of the reason, a season-long slump
What hasn’t Klay Thompson done this summer? The Golden State Warriors star is just enjoying his time by the Bay. Thompson is recovering from yet another season-ending injury, but should be ready to go once the season rolls around in October. For now, though, he’s taking it easy and taking in a San Francisco Giants
12:03 PM ET Brian Windhorst Close ESPN Senior Writer ESPN.com NBA writer since 2010 Covered Cleveland Cavs for seven years Author of two books Tim Bontemps Unvaccinated NBA players will have lockers as far away as possible from their vaccinated teammates and will have to eat, fly and ride buses in different sections as part
According to oddsmakers via Bovada, the Cleveland Cavaliers are the favorites (-250) to retain five-time All-Star Kevin Love. The Brooklyn Nets have the second-best odds (+800) of trading for the 32-year-old player, followed by the Los Angeles Clippers (+1000) and Philadelphia 76ers (+1000). Five days ago, Jeff Schwartz, Love’s agent, said he has no interest
Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James and rapper Drake (Photo by George Pimentel/Getty Images) USMNT vs El Salvador live stream reddit: Watch FIFA World Cup Qualifying – CONCACAF by Scott Rogust With Drake’s new album, Certified Lover Boy, set to drop in the coming hours, NBA stars LeBron James and Kevin Durant reacted on social media.
6:25 PM ET Paul Millsap has agreed to a deal with the Brooklyn Nets, his agent, DeAngelo Simmons, told ESPN on Thursday. Millsap becomes the latest former All-Star to join the Nets over the past few seasons, joining Blake Griffin, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden. Millsap’s four All-Star appearances bring Brooklyn’s total up
BetMGM has announced a partnership with Casino del Mar at La Concha Resort in Puerto Rico. The resort is located in Condado, San Juan. This is a market access agreement, according to sources. This partnership is also subject to regulatory approvals. What does this intriguing information mean for Puerto Ricans? BetMGM has now expanded its
Ben Simmons has given the 76ers an ultimatum. They need to find a trade partner but here’s why the Sacramento Kings are probably out. On Tuesday, it was reported that Ben Simmons had given the Philadelphia 76ers an ultimatum — if they didn’t find a trade for him he would refuse to report to training
The Cavaliers’ young frontcourt trio might pan out, but is it worth the investment the team made to bring them Lauri Markkanen, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley together? It’s difficult to grasp the rationale behind the Cavaliers giving Lauri Markkanen $67 million over the next four years, even before accounting for their other moves this
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. Giannis is far from the first NBA player to add fluidity to the positional spectrum with a special composite of size and skill. Big men shooting 3-pointers had long
7:00 AM ET NBA Insiders The best players in the NBA are elite for a reason. The Milwaukee Bucks‘ two-time MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo, is one of the premier two-way players in the league. Dallas Mavericks phenom Luka Doncic is among the most dangerous players in the world at just 22 years old. Still, even the
(Image courtesy of ATP) The world’s best basketball league gets back underway on Tuesday, October 19 – there are some gems of games in store for fans during week-1, and the Basketball Insiders team has been quick to action too, scouring sportsbooks to present our early bird NBA betting picks! Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks get
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 NCAA football Colorways Available Now by Nathan Cunningham Ben Simmons has been linked to the Warriors in plenty of trade rumors, but even with his new trade demand, a deal seems unlikely. Ben Simmons is doing his best to force the Philadelphia 76ers to compromise on
Heat forward Jimmy Butler. (Journal Sentinel) Phoenix Suns keeping Chris Paul with mega 4-year deal by Gerald Bourguet Suns: Chris Paul had surgery on his left wrist after NBA Finals by Baigen Seawell All-Star forward Jimmy Butler is expected to sign a maximum contract extension with the Miami Heat for four years and more than
Bam Adebayo took another step in his development last season, but Chris Bosh thinks there’s another level to get to. Over the last couple seasons, Bam Adebayo has become a key cog for the Miami Heat. He has earned second All-Defensive Team honors in back-to-back seasons, with an All-Star selection in 2020. Last season, he
11:49 AM ET Joel Embiid has denied a reported “rift” with 76ers teammate Ben Simmons and said Wednesday in a series of tweets that he loves playing with the embattled star in Philadelphia. “Stop using my name to push people’s agendas,” Embiid tweeted. “I love and hate drama. I love playing with Ben. Stats don’t
The Philadelphia 76ers have been working to trade three-time All-Star Ben Simmons. Thus far, they have been unsuccessful with negotiations, considering Daryl Morey, the team’s president of basketball operations, and general manager Elton Brand are demanding a king’s ransom for their point guard. Per sources, now they are aiming to trade Tyrese Maxey along with
Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers, Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota Timberwolves. (Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports) Here’s why a Ben Simmons trade with the Warriors probably isn’t happening by Ian Levy One team that could be in the mix to deal for Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons is the Minnesota Timberwolves. With Ben Simmons wanting to no longer play
6:27 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN The NBA informed teams that recently issued laws in both New York City and San Francisco about vaccine requirements will be enforced — including for players — for members of the New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets and Golden State Warriors unless there is an approved medical or religious exemption from
Per oddsmakers at MyBookie, the Sacramento Kings are still the favorites to trade for three-time All-Star Ben Simmons from the Philadelphia 76ers. Their current odds are +250. According to sources, Simmons actually has no interest of playing for the Kings. However, to get along with others in this league, sometimes players have to go along.
Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports After the fight: The lasting impact of Jake Paul vs. Tyron Woodley by Jeremy Herriges Ben Simmons trade rumors are heating up and the latest have implied that Tyrese Maxey is likely to be headed out with Simmons in any deal. The percolating Ben Simmons trade mess has reached a rolling
Philadelphia 76ers point guard Ben Simmons is threatening to hold out from training camp until his trade saga is resolved. Simmons — whose committed the ultimate crime of playing basketball without a jump shot — remains a valuable trade asset for the Philadelphia 76ers as they hope to flip him before the start of the
LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers high fives Anthony Davis during introductions before the game against the Portland Trail Blazers. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) Watch fighter KO opponent with totally insane flying knee at the face-off (Video) by Amy Kaplan How much is the Jake Paul vs. Tyron Woodley Pay-Per-View? by Amy Kaplan
Rajon Rondo, LA Clippers. (Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) Florida vs. Florida Atlantic prediction, odds, spread, line, over/under & betting info for NCAA Week 1 by Alicia de Artola The Memphis Grizzlies are about to pay a fourth player to go play for the Los Angeles Lakers. For many former star players to
7:00 AM ET NBA Insiders The Brooklyn Nets enter September as the betting favorites to take home the 2021-22 NBA title — and for good reason. The superstar trio of Kevin Durant, James Harden and Kyrie Irving form the most-feared big three in the league. But that group played just 14 games together during the
Per sources, center DeAndre Jordan is working towards a contract buyout with the Brooklyn Nets. On Monday, it was first reported that the Los Angeles Lakers were expressing interest in signing the 13-year veteran; they are now the official favorites. This news comes right after Rajon Rondo’s contract buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies. Rondo is
PORTLAND, OREGON – JUNE 03: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers reacts after his three point basket in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets during Round 1, Game 6 of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Moda Center on June 03, 2021 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 04: Serge Ibaka #9 of the Los Angeles Clippers in action against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on March 04, 2021 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of
Reggie Jackson and the Clippers looked like an ideal fit, and after his strong postseason run he is coming back on a multi-year deal. The lingering big question over the Los Angeles Clippers is the status of Kawhi Leonard, who declined his player option but has not re-signed yet. But one piece of business is
11:49 PM ET The Cleveland Cavaliers agreed to a one-year, non-guaranteed deal with center Tacko Fall, his agents — Bill Duffy and Justin Haynes — told The Athletic. Fall, 25, spent his first two NBA seasons with the Boston Celtics, averaging 2.7 points and 2.6 rebounds in 26 total appearances. At 7-foot-5, he became an
After Russell Westbrook was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers fans began speculating that Damian Lillard would not be playing with LeBron James and Anthony Davis anytime soon. The salary cap complicates a scenario like this. Los Angeles also signed Carmelo Anthony and are frontrunners to sign Rajon Rondo. However, there was
Russell Westbrook has been a distinctive soloist his whole career. How will he coexist alongside two other All-NBA talents? Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk only played together once, during a 1954 session when Monk sat in with Davis and the Modern Jazz Quartet, filling in for John Lewis on piano. The two men did not
4:31 PM ET Rajon Rondo has a pretty good idea of what it takes to win a championship, and as he was introduced officially as a Los Angeles Laker — again — he said the advanced age of the team will only help in the pursuit of another one. “Wisdom is definitely key to winning
According to MyBookie, the Sacramento Kings are the favorites (+250) to sign Philadelphia 76ers‘ point guard Ben Simmons. Notwithstanding their current luxury tax space amount of $5,521,317, they are $25,465,197 over the cap. To add to that, the Minnesota Timberwolves have the second-best odds (+400) of trading for Simmons. While the Toronto Raptors‘ odds show
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Scott Frost owed ridiculous buyout if Nebraska fires him this season by Brad Berreman Nebraska message boards have Scott Frost’s replacements in mind and they’re insane by John Buhler The Chicago Bulls have their eyes on the playoffs this season. Their rumored interest in Paul Millsap could bring them one step
8:49 AM ET Associated Press Team USA will face Puerto Rico, Mexico and Cuba in the first round of qualifying for the 2023 Basketball World Cup. The Americans, who won a fourth consecutive Olympic gold medal in Tokyo but finished only seventh at the most recent Basketball World Cup two years ago, found out their
Point guard Grant Riller has been signed by the Philadelphia 76ers to a two-way contract, according to an announcement made today by Daryl Morey, the team’s president of basketball operations. On November 30, 2020, the guard signed a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets. In the 2020-21 season, Riller spent time playing for both Charlotte
Russell Westbrook has never been a consistent outside shooter but he’ll need to hit some for the Lakers this season. It looks like he’s already working on it. Russell Westbrook was the biggest offseason addition for the Los Angeles Lakers and there are plenty of questions about how his ball-dominant style will mesh with LeBron
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Panthers give Robby Anderson rich extension to keep him in Carolina by Brad Berreman Everything you need to know about the Big Ten, ACC, Pac-12 alliance by Patrick Schmidt The Warriors reportedly have serious interest in signing Paul Millsap. But they might have to wait a while before convincing him
Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) Look: Russell Westbrook is at Lakers’ facility working on his catch-and-shoot 3s by Ian Levy Golden State Warriors rookie Moses Moody says watching Klay Thompson shoot in person for the first time was an amazing experience. Moses Moody may have watched the Splash Brothers go to work when
2:55 PM ET Jeremy WillisESPN.com Damian Lillard and Shaquille O’Neal are teaming up to rebrand a classic pair of kicks. The “Shaqnosis” has a new look courtesy of the Portland Trail Blazers star and the former Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat champion and Hall of Famer. 1 Related The original, black and white, “Shaqnosis”
According to sources, Rajon Rondo plans to sign a one-year, $2.6 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday. The guard will clear waivers today. The four-time All-Star was traded by the Los Angeles Clippers to the Memphis Grizzlies on August 16, 2021. This past Saturday, the guard reached a buyout with the Grizzlies.
After a Hall of Fame career, former ABA and NBA star Spencer Haywood is now fighting the inequalities of the healthcare system Spencer Haywood has always been a pioneer. He was the first basketball player to leave college early when he signed with the ABA’s Denver Rockets after his sophomore year and garnered many accolades
1:48 PM ET Rajon Rondo plans to sign a one-year, $2.6 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers upon clearing waivers Monday, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Rondo, who agreed to a contract buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday, will still make his full $7.5 million salary this season between the buyout and his
On a chilly March 25 afternoon in Chicago, the basketball world witnessed a minor miracle. The Bulls’ front office made a major move at the trade deadline to acquire a two-time All-Star. That move was a foreign concept to the fans in Chicago, but it sent a signal that the team was serious about winning.
Damian Lillard and Ben Simmons need to be traded. While a straight-up swap would work, it’s more fun to get a third team involved. It’s time to stop dancing around it. It’s time to make the move. The rumors, swirling. The sources, anonymous. The players, cryptic. Two enormous dominos from opposite coastlines still have to
Sidney Lowe is back with the Cleveland Cavaliers. It’s been 22 years. As an assistant, Lowe has now officially been added to head coach J.B. Bickerstaff’s coaching staff. This is the 61-year-old’s second stint with the organization after serving under Mike Fratello from 1994 through 1999. During this span, the Cavs had three playoff appearances
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. We’ve officially hit the doldrums of the NBA offseason — 25 days since NBA free agency opened, 31 days from the opening of training camps. This means it’s ranking
DeMar DeRozan, San Antonio Spurs, Dorian Finney-Smith, Dallas Mavericks. (Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports) The Dallas Mavericks have plenty of options at guard besides Kyle Lowry to add in free agency. With longtime Toronto Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry expected to be joining the Miami Heat this summer by way of a sign-and-trade, the Dallas Mavericks
On July 28, 2021, New Orleans Pelicans center Jaxson Hayes was reportedly involved in a physical altercation with Los Angeles police officers. The cops were called to the home in Woodland Hills around 3 a.m. over an alleged domestic violence dispute between Jaxson and his girlfriend. After a woman received worrisome text messages from her
Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images Vikings: Major Kirk Cousins target to undergo surgery by Braulio Perez Rajon Rondo will be making his return to the Los Angeles Lakers…reaffirming that LeBron James is definitely building a super-team. This shouldn’t be to anyone’s surprise at this point, but the Los Angeles Lakers are definitely building up
The name Anthony Bennet has, unfortunately, become synonymous with NBA Draft bust. But apparently not synonymous enough to get spelled correctly. Anthony Bennett played his last NBA game during the 2016-17 season with the Brooklyn Nets. He is gone, but not forgotten, from the NBA landscape. Bennett was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the
2:00 PM ET Editor’s note: Richard Lapchick is a human rights activist, pioneer for racial equality, expert on sports issues, scholar and author. As the world navigated the COVID-19 global health crisis and an outcry for social justice, the NBA set a high standard for how leagues can address health policies, athlete activism and racial
As part of a three-way deal with the Portland Trail Blazers, the Chicago Bulls have traded restricted free agent forward Lauri Markkanen to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The contract signed was a four-year, $67 million deal. Furthermore, the Cavs are also sending forward Larry Nance Jr. to the Trail Blazers and a 2023 second-round draft pick
The Cleveland Cavaliers were reportedly making progress on buying out the contract of veteran big man Kevin Love. The Cleveland Cavaliers were very active this offseason, highlighted by using their first-round draft pick on USC big man Evan Mobley. Additionally, they acquired Lauri Markkanen from the Chicago Bulls in a three-team trade also involving the
1:32 PM ET Associated Press NBA referees will all be vaccinated against the coronavirus this season. The NBA announced Saturday that it has struck a deal with the National Basketball Referees Association on that requirement. Part of the referees’ agreement with the NBA also says that those working games will receive booster shots once those
The Los Angeles Lakers are front-runners to sign four-time All-Star Rajon Rondo. Referencing betting odds from Bovada, the Lakers have -130 odds of signing the player, followed by the Memphis Grizzlies (+120) and Golden State Warriors (+500). On November 23, 2020, he signed a two-year, $15 million contract with the Atlanta Hawks. Then, he was
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports PFL playoffs: Brendan Loughnane vs. Movlid Khaybulaev full live results and highlights by Thomas Albano PFL playoffs: Brendan Loughnane vs. Movlid Khaybulaev reddit live stream by Al Mac The Los Angeles Lakers are still filling out their roster and it’s possible that Rajon Rondo could be back in the purple and
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 frantic rush of free-agent signings from the beginning of this month has given way to a steady progression of major contract extensions. Earlier this week Joel Embiid and
11:57 AM ET Five-time All-Star forward Kevin Love has no interest in negotiating a buyout on the two years and $60 million left on his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, his agent, Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports, told ESPN on Saturday. “There have been no talks with Cleveland on a buyout, nor is there any
One of the last dominoes of the 2021 offseason has fallen. How did the Cleveland Cavaliers, Chicago Bulls and Portland Trail Blazers all make out? Player leverage wins the day. Almost a month after the majority of free agency was settled, restricted free agent Lauri Markkanen was able to find a new home. According to
Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images NFL media, Saints fans react to Jameis Winston winning Saints QB job by Alicia de Artola DeAndre Jordan’s role with the Brooklyn Nets shrunk dramatically last season. Rumors are he won’t still be with the Nets when the season starts. DeAndre Jordan joined the Brooklyn Nets in the same offseason
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 05: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets handles the ball against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game One of the Second Round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on June 05, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading
4:52 PM ET LOS ANGELES — Another former Laker appears to be on his way back to the purple and gold. Rajon Rondo will likely sign with the Lakers, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, upon clearing waivers after a contract buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday. Rondo was traded from the LA Clippers to
Montrezl Harrell of the Los Angeles Lakers in action against the Washington Wizards. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) Phillies-Diamondbacks game delayed due to COVID-19 concerns by Scott Rogust Former Vikings, Chiefs lineman fires back at Jadeveon Clowney’s insulting comments by Mark Powell Montrezl Harrell took to instagram to give parting words to the Lakers organization
PAUL BUCK/AFP via Getty Images Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Manchester United is a done deal by Alicia de Artola Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan were two of the greatest big men of their generation but their different demeanors are what made their rivalry so fascinating. Kevin Garnett was famous for being one of the most
12:01 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN When Julius Randle was eligible for an extension this offseason, he knew there was a chance he could make more money if he waited a year to sign a new deal with the New York Knicks. If Randle would have waited until 2022, when his contract expired, he would have
Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images The Long Two: Are the Atlanta Hawks title contenders? by Ben Ladner Ryan Tannehill placed on COVID-19 list with Week 1 around the corner by Braulio Perez The summer of Giannis Antetokounmpo continues as he makes a surprise appearance in the ring at an AEW event in Milwaukee. Giannis Antetokounmpo
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) Rein Taaramae reins in others to win La Vuelta a Espana Stage 3 by Marisa Wikramanayake Fabio Jakobsen wins 2021 La Vuelta a Espana Stage 4 by Marisa Wikramanayake NBA superstars like Kevin Durant and LeBron James hate their overall ratings in NBA2k22. In a tradition
11:17 PM ET Associated Press LOS ANGELES — A Los Angeles police officer briefly pressed a knee to the neck of Jaxson Hayes as the New Orleans Pelicans center gasped “I can’t breathe” seconds before another officer used a Taser on him during a struggle, according to body camera video released Friday. The officers went
During an Instagram live stream, point guard Damian Lillard said he wants to remain with the Portland Trail Blazers. He said, “I’m not leaving [Portland], not right now at least.” According to oddsmakers at MyBookie, the Trail Blazers currently have the fourth-best odds (+900) of trading for Ben Simmons from the Philadelphia 76ers, ranking behind
Ja Morant is not here for any of the trade rumors involving his Memphis Grizzlies teammates, Dillon Brooks or Kyle Anderson. It’s that time of year where we’re seeing some trade rumors fly across the NBA. For the Memphis Grizzlies, the latest reports have suggested that they could end up sending either Dillion Brooks or
With little to work on in terms of his game this offseason, Bradley Beal is looking to extend his shooting range. Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal has averaged more than 30 points per game in each of the last two seasons, as he finished runner-up for the scoring title in both seasons. Beyond leading the
12:15 PM ET The Cleveland Cavaliers are acquiring Chicago Bulls restricted free agent Lauri Markkanen in a three-way trade that also involves the Portland Trail Blazers, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Markkanen is heading to the Cavs on a four-year, $67 million deal in a sign-and-trade agreement with the Bulls. Chicago will receive Derrick Jones
Two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo made an unexpected appearance at the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena on Wednesday. During AEW Dynamite, the six-foot-eleven NBA champion and Thanasis, his older brother and Milwaukee Bucks’ teammate, rolled into the ring and climbed the ropes to have the time of their lives. While walking throughout the ring and standing on the
New York Knicks free agency signing Evan Fournier was not too happy about his NBA 2K mobile game rendering. Every single year, professional sports video games are under intense scrutiny from fans and players alike. Those who buy the game look towards gameplay and features, while athletes are looking at their overall ratings and player
2:23 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN The Phoenix Suns have had great success over the past year with their “The Valley” jersey design. Now, they’ve introduced a new concept to honor their Mexican and Mexican American fans and are looking to fans for feedback. Phoenix said it is working on a uniform concept based on ancient
Former New York Knicks shooting guard Ron Baker has officially retired from the NBA. The 28-year-old from Wichita State went undrafted in 2016. Baker signed a contract with the Knicks on August 1, 2016. Then, he made his NBA debut on October 25, 2016 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. In the team’s 117-88 loss, Baker scored
May 9, 2021; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine (8) gives five to a teammate as he walks to the bench during the second quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports Cole Beasley says masks make no sense, calls out NFL by Matt Verderame After
Mandatory Credit: Rich Schultz/POOL PHOTOS-USA TODAY Sports NBA Twitter freaks out after Bulls land Lonzo Ball in sign-and-trade by Mark Powell Phoenix Suns keeping Chris Paul with mega 4-year deal by Gerald Bourguet NBA Free Agency has started with a bang, and now-former Toronto Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry is taking his talents to South
5:58 PM ET Tory BarronESPN Editor Close Tory Barron is a Bristol-based writer and editor for ESPN.com. After retiring from playing lacrosse at UConn, the DC native decided to try her hand at writing about people playing sports. Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry and his wife, Ayesha, are collaborating with Davidson College to launch
Per sources, the Indiana Pacers‘ front office are contemplating a potential in-season trade involving Jeremy Lamb. On October 20, 2021, their season opener begins at the Spectrum Center against the Charlotte Hornets. The team’s backcourt currently consists of Caris LeVert, Malcolm Brogdon and T.J. McConnell. In the 2021 NBA Draft, the Pacers also selected Oregon
After two strong offseasons and a Conference Finals run, the Hawks have moved to the fringes of the NBA title picture. Can they break through as a true contender? Among the most difficult questions to answer in the NBA is how an overachieving young team will carry its success into the next year. Improvement isn’t
2:01 PM ET The National Basketball Players Association, in partnership with NYC Parks, will renovate the Greg Marius Court at Holcombe Rucker Park in New York City’s Harlem neighborhood, the players’ union announced Thursday. In a project funded by the NBPA, the renovation of the iconic court includes repairing and leveling the pavement, the replacement
Head coach Mike Budenholzer has agreed to a three-year extension to remain with the Milwaukee Bucks. Bud was entering the final year of his contract. He is now expected to remain with the organization until the summertime of 2025. After the signing, Bucks general manager Jon Hurst mentioned, “Bud is a great coach and a
ESPN reporter Rachel Nichols. (Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Avisail Garcia steals Max Schrock’s hopes and dreams with home run robbery (Video) by Alicia de Artola ESPN is purging Rachel Nichols from their NBA programming and canceling “The Jump” after her controversial hot-mic comments about Maria Taylor. Rachel Nichols’ time with ESPN isn’t over, but NBA fans
8:00 AM ET NBA Insiders The peak of NBA free agency is in the rearview. The full 2021-22 season schedule has been released. Training camps can officially open on Sept 28. Still, there are a few potential moves that remain unresolved. Will the Philadelphia 76ers trade Ben Simmons? How much longer will Damian Lillard remain
For NBA rookies, the start of the 2020-21 season was vastly different than in the past. The COVID-19 pandemic had caused the 2019-20 season to be put on temporary hiatus, and the league eventually resumed play in the bubble in Orlando, FL. The bubble played out long into October and as a result, the 2020
At age 32, Steph Curry just finished one of the most productive seasons of his entire career. As he looks to extend his prime he’s drawing inspiration from the NFL’s ironman, Tom Brady. Steph Curry is at an age when many NBA stars are beginning to slow down. But last season, at the age of
6:22 PM ET Associated Press ATLANTA — Nick Van Exel has returned to the Atlanta Hawks, joining Nate McMillan’s staff as an assistant coach. Van Exel spent the past two years as a scout with the Dallas Mavericks. The Hawks announced his hiring Wednesday, bringing back a former All-Star who served as a player development
Summer is drawing to a close and while the buzz surrounding free agency has lessened, there are still some impactful moves that teams can make. Now is the time for the front office executives to trim out their roster, take a closer look at some veterans, and possibly taking a chance on a young prospect
Steph Curry is one of the greatest shot-makers in NBA history, but his brilliance isn’t limited to the actual game. His pregame theatrics are on a whole different level. You’ve seen Steph Curry beat a defense with almost every shot you could possibly imagine — the deep 3s, the step-backs, the up-and-under layups, the jumpers
Chris Paul is expected to opt out of the final year of his contract but will most likely be staying with the Phoenix Suns. Normally, it’d be a bad idea for a 36-year-old NBA player with a history of injuries to turn down a $44.2 million player option. But Chris Paul is not your normal
The Phoenix Suns are reportedly entertaining interest from teams regarding 2020 first-round selection Jalen Smith. The Phoenix Suns are looking to make it back to the NBA Finals next year after they fell in six games to the Milwaukee Bucks. The team accomplished their top goal of the offseason, and that was re-signing veteran point
Aug 24, 2021 Andrew LopezESPN Jared Dudley‘s NBA career is coming to a close as he’s joining the Dallas Mavericks‘ coaching staff, the 14-year veteran said on Twitter on Tuesday afternoon. In a pair of tweets, Dudley thanked the Los Angeles Lakers organization — naming LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Jeanie Buss specifically — for
On the Los Angeles Lakers, point guard Russell Westbrook is projected to earn over 25.5 triple-doubles in the upcoming 2021-22 NBA regular season. According to BetOnline, bettors can pick the over 25.5 (-120) or under 25.5 (-120). Moreover, showing +2500 odds, his MVP odds also rank 14th in the league. On May 10, 2021, in
At some point, people move on. That’s a good thing, but it’s also important to let each individual do it at their own pace. Kevin Garnett has decided to take his time when it comes to Ray Allen. Let’s go back in time. Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Rajon Rondo were on a
Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons keeps putting out hype clips, but they’re really not doing him any good at this point. Ben Simmons has taken a beating in 2021. On some level, the sympathy level for a very talented player working through some issues should be high. Unfortunately, the hype clips Simmons and his trainers
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – MAY 14: Dell Curry and Sonya Curry, parents of Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors (not pictured) and Seth Curry #31 of the Portland Trail Blazers (not pictured) attend game one of the NBA Western Conference Finals at ORACLE Arena on May 14, 2019 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER:
7:50 PM ET New York Knicks center Nerlens Noel filed a lawsuit against former agent Rich Paul and his firm, Klutch Sports, on Monday, claiming he lost $58 million in potential salary while he was represented by Paul from 2017 to 2020. Noel took the action after Klutch recently filed a grievance with the National
According to sources, Jared Dudley is retiring as an NBA player. He last played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 2019 to 2021. On Twitter, Dudley thanks LeBron James and the Lakers organization for signing him. The 14-year veteran played for seven different NBA franchises in his professional playing career: Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets), Phoenix
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. I happened to catch my first glimpse of statistical win projections for the 2021-22 season this morning, thanks to Kosta Medvedovsky and his DARKO system. There weren’t a ton
9:06 PM ET After leading the Milwaukee Bucks to the franchise’s first NBA championship in 50 years, coach Mike Budenholzer has agreed to a three-year contract extension, sources told ESPN. Budenholzer — who was entering the final year of his deal — now ties himself to the Bucks through the 2024-25 season. His extension punctuates
Week 2 of the 2021-2022 NFL Preseason is underway and Saturday features a jam-packed slate of 10 games for bettors to choose from. The shortened preseason means that most teams will elect to give their starters some reps this week, adding some intrigue to the exhibition season. With football season right around the corner, we’ll
Kyrie Irving might have the best handles in NBA history. Here are five times he used that skill to produce moments of pure magic. 525,600 crossovers. 525,600 moments of shake-and-back. 525,600 crossovers. How do you measure, measure a career? In the case of Kyrie Irving, it’s all about his absolute magical mastery with the ball.
2:05 PM ET LOS ANGELES — As fans look to find ways to remember Kobe Bryant this week — with the late Lakers star’s birthday Monday followed by the date on the calendar that commemorates his uniforms Tuesday, 8/24 — a blockchain company has found another way to honor Mamba forever. Cryptograph, a digital collectibles
The Sacramento Kings are now the favorites to trade for three-time All-Star Ben Simmons from the Philadelphia 76ers. According to MyBookie oddsmakers, showing +275 odds, the point guard is projected to play his first game of the 2021-22 NBA season with the Kings. Next, the Minnesota Timberwolves have the second-best odds (+400) of trading for Simmons,
What level of competition did your favorite player actually face in the 2021 NBA Summer League, and what does it mean for future projections? NBA Summer League provides a theater for rookies to make first impressions and sophomores to make a statement. At the same time, it’s a petri dish for speculation, premature praise and
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 05: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Head coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks in action against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on April 05, 2021 in New York City. The Nets defeated the Knicks 114-112. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) Pelicans land Devonte’ Graham in sign-and-trade after
9:00 AM ET 30 for 30 Podcasts and The Undefeated present The King of Crenshaw, a four-part podcast series that focuses on how the late Nipsey Hussle’s life, death, and legacy deeply impacted the sports world. This series aims to examine how that overlap of Black male creativity, talent, and ambition will forever live on
Stephen Curry’s 55-year-old mother, Sonya, has officially filed for a divorce from Dell, his 56-year-old father. According to court records, in the state of North Carolina, Sonya filled out the paperwork back on June 14th. Sonya and Dell got married on August 27, 1988, five months after Stephen was born. They also moved to Charlotte,
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. For 13 seasons, Russell Westbrook has been an object of endless fascination for NBA fans — his personality, his fire, his athleticism, his style of play, his stats, his
New Orleans Pelicans guard Lonzo Ball is heading to Chicago to join the Bulls on a four-year deal worth $85 million via a sign-and-trade. Lonzo Ball is going to sign with the Chicago Bulls. The New Orleans Pelicans guard agreed to a four-year, $85 million contract, according to multiple reports, with a sign-and-trade agreement. Shams
7:56 PM ET ESPN News Services Boston Celtics forward Josh Richardson has agreed to a one-year, $12 million extension, his agent Bill Duffy of BDA Sports told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Richardson had one year and $11.5 million left on his deal, which now runs through the 2022-2023 season. The Celtics acquired Richardson from the Dallas
After YouTuber Tasha K, whose official channel name is “UNWINEWITHTASHAK,” made a claim that Iggy Azalea and Tristan Thompson were sleeping together, ridiculous rumors went viral on social media. Iggy responded saying that ‘she’s never even met the dude.’ Iggy was referring to the 30-year-old Canadian NBA player. For those who don’t know, Iggy is
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports Colts clearly gearing up for Carson Wentz to start Week 1 by John Buhler Kobe Bryant would have turned 43 today. Fans and media members took to Twitter to celebrate his life and legacy. It’s been almost two years since Kobe Bryant tragically passed away in a helicopter accident, along with
Patrick Beverley is on the move again, now headed to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a deal involving a former lottery pick. On Sunday night, Patrick Beverley was sent to the Memphis Grizzlies in a deal that brought Eric Bledsoe to the Los Angeles Clippers. The veteran point guard and noted agitator is on the move
4:54 PM ET Associated Press J.R. Smith is finally getting the college-athlete experience he missed out on nearly two decades ago. The 16-year NBA veteran who skipped college basketball, won two world championships and made millions is now a freshman walk-on for the North Carolina A&T men’s golf team. Now, instead of first-class cross-country travel
The Christmas Day and opening day schedule for the 2021-22 NBA season was released last Wednesday. Then, the full schedule for the upcoming season was released this past Friday. Sportsbooks have also now published their win total projections for all 30 teams for next season. The win total is based on a full 82-game traditional
Shaquille O’Neal gave Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo his blessing to use his Superman nickname. Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo silenced his critics with a historic performance in the 2021 NBA Finals. With the Bucks down 0-2, Antetokounmpo stepped up and helped his team win the next four games to secure the franchise’s first NBA
7:16 AM ET How has the NBA’s landscape changed after the draft and free agency? The biggest shocker came on draft night, when the Los Angeles Lakers sprung a deal with the Washington Wizards to land former MVP Russell Westbrook. The move created the league’s newest superstar Big Three of Westbrook, LeBron James and Anthony
Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls. (Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports) Yadier Molina signed the base Kolten Wong stole against him in awesome gesture by Mark Powell The Chicago Bulls may have had their home opener for the 2021-22 NBA season leaked. This is a season of great promise for the Chicago Bulls, and their home
Victor Oladipo, Miami Heat, Kelly Oubre Jr., Golden State Warriors. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images) Latest Aaron Rodgers quote shows no issues with Jordan Love by Braulio Perez Romelu Lukaku tells Inter Milan he wants a Chelsea transfer by Braulio Perez The Miami Heat bring back often-injured guard Victor Oladipo on a one-year minimum deal. Victor Oladipo
Duncan Robinson of the Miami Heat reacts after being called for a foul during Game Four of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images) John Mara is an old, out-of-touch man who hates taunting by Scott Rogust Did Tyrann Mathieu take a shot at the Chiefs over contract talks? by Scott
9:34 PM ET Tyler Smith, the No. 8 basketball prospect in ESPN’s Class of 2023, has signed with Overtime Elite, he told ESPN on Sunday. “This is different and new,” Smith said. I wanted to be a pro already, working on stuff that NBA players work on. In high school you can’t work out as
In a new biography, Mirin Fader skillfully tells the story of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s rise to NBA superstardom Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the best and most unique players in the NBA. At 26 years old, he has already made five All-NBA teams and is one of only five players ever to win both MVP and
1:20 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN The Boston Celtics and center Robert Williams have agreed to a four-year, $54 million contract extension, agent Kevin Bradbury of REP1 Sports told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski on Friday. The deal will put Williams, 23, among the top half of centers in the NBA in terms of annual salary and is
Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images Mets balked at chance to make blockbuster Kris Bryant trade at deadline by John Buhler Giannis is already the most popular man in Milwaukee. Now that he’s a part-owner of the Milwaukee Brewers, he may never pay for a drink again. After leading the Bucks to their first NBA championship
LeBron James didn’t receive any votes for best player in the league by execs and scouts and he couldn’t be more upset about things. Once he hangs up his sneakers for good, LeBron James will go down as one of the best players to ever suit up in the NBA. We could probably go on
The offseason of Los Angles Lakers hot takes continues, as two former LeBron James teammates are weighing in on whether expectations can be met. One of the biggest questions hovering over the new NBA season is whether the Lakers got better or simply got older. The answer doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive, as the
4:17 PM ET The Brooklyn Nets, the consensus favorites to win the title, opened at a league-best 54.5 wins at Caesars Sportsbook after the NBA released its full 2021-22 schedule on Friday. The defending champion Milwaukee Bucks are next at 53.5. The Bucks host the Nets on opening night, Oct. 19. Milwaukee is an early
The wait might finally be over for Golden State Warriors wondering when Klay Thompson will return to the lineup. It’s been over 800 days since basketball fans have been graced with Klay Thompson’s presence on the court. The Warriors star missed all of last season with an Achilles injury, but the wait to see him
The Los Angeles Clippers are heading back to 2013, shipping Patrick Beverley, Rajon Rondo and Daniel Oturu to the Grizzlies for Eric Bledsoe. Eric Bledsoe is a Clipper. Welcome back to 2013! Los Angeles is trading Patrick Beverley, Rajon Rondo and Daniel Oturu to the Grizzlies for their former point guard, according to Adrian Wojnarowski
Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports The LA Clippers have acquired Eric Bledsoe in exchange for Patrick Beverley. The mourning for losing Beverley rages on and it doesn’t bode well for Bledsoe. It was a shock to many LA Clippers fans when they saw the notification sweep across their screens saying that Patrick Beverley, Rajon
8:42 PM ET Associated Press KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — What David Stern did for the sport of basketball transcended any gender bias and opened a whole new world for women in the game. NBA commissioner from 1984 to 2014, Stern was the key figure in the formation and operation of the WNBA in 1997. That bold
The Boston Celtics announce #5 will be retired to honor former Celtics player Kevin Garnett at TD Garden on February 13, 2020 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) 3 reasons the Clippers got worse after trading Patrick Beverley for Eric Bledsoe by Baigen Seawell NFL rumors: Broncos passed on Justin Fields because he
3:36 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN A trio of return games for All-Star point guards Russell Westbrook, Kyle Lowry and Kemba Walker highlights the NBA’s full schedule release Friday afternoon. Westbrook will head back to Washington with the Los Angeles Lakers on March 19, about a week after the teams meet in Los Angeles on March
According to sources, the Memphis Grizzlies are trading Patrick Beverley to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Jarrett Culver and Juancho Hernangomez. Gersson Rosas, the Timberwolves’ president of basketball operations, is familiar with Beverley’s style of play and work ethic, considering he was the executive vice president of basketball operations for the Houston Rockets, where he previously
Feb 16, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III (44) during the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports Sterling Shepard and Troy Hill square off at Giants-Browns joint practice (Video) by Baigen Seawell The Boston Celtics have reportedly agreed to terms with center
Houston Rockets fans can ramp up the excitement for No. 2 overall pick Jalen Green after his impressive 23-point debut in the NBA Summer League. NBA Summer League appearances aren’t everything. But a big outing certainly doesn’t do any harm. In the case of Houston Rockets draft pick Jalen Green, a Summer League appearance is
5:36 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN Kevin Garnett will become the 24th player in Boston Celtics history to have his jersey retired on March 13, when Boston will host the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC. Garnett, who won the 2008 title with the Celtics, spent six seasons of his Hall
According to oddsmakers at BetOnline, the Los Angeles Lakers have the best odds (2/1) of winning the Western Conference title. Next, the Golden State Warriors possess the second-best odds (9/2), followed by the Phoenix Suns (15/2), Los Angeles Clippers (8/1), Utah Jazz (8/1) and other teams. In the 2020-21 NBA season, the Lakers finished 42-30
A trading card with eight signatures from professional athletes is making its rounds across the internet for the star power and the price coming with it. Trading cards can go for cheap or beyond expensive, but sometimes it’s hard for an untrained eye to really tell a card’s worth. Sometimes you can just look at a
Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors. (Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports) 3 Chiefs veterans who could be cut this preseason by Brad Berreman Klay Thompson is back in the gym and making 3-pointers after two injury-riddled seasons. While it has been a frustrating last two years for the Golden State Warriors, nobody feels more
Paul Millsap of the Denver Nuggets in action against the Miami Heat. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) Suni Lee gets Olympic rings tattooed following medal haul at 2021 Olympics (Photo) by Baigen Seawell Former Denver Nuggets forward Paul Millsap is reportedly generating interest from two NBA title contenders. NBA free agency began earlier this month,
5:00 PM ET The NBA schedule is here. And unlike last season’s unveiling that broke games into first and second halves, we know all 1,230 games up front. The 2021-22 season tips off on Oct. 19 with the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks hosting the Brooklyn Nets on ring night. The last time these two Eastern
(Image courtesy of NBA) New Los Angeles Lakers signing Russell Westbrook is one of the premier point guards of the last decade. But, though the Oklahoma Thunder legend has an MVP award to his name (2016-17), and despite the fact he is a 9x NBA All-Star, that hasn’t deterred oddsmakers at some of basketball’s leading
Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. (Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports) 3 Cowboys veterans who could be cut this preseason by Jarrett Bailey Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo surprised fans in Greece by showing off his NBA Finals MVP trophy as his title celebration rolls on. Giannis Antetokounmpo is an NBA champion and Finals MVP. And he’s spreading
Jalen Green is interviewed after being drafted by the Toronto Raptors during the 2021 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on July 29, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images) Real Madrid rumors: Carlo Ancelotti wants Cristiano Ronaldo reunion by Alicia de Artola Jalen Green had some words to say about the
9:00 AM ET Who are the NBA free agents to watch in 2022 and 2023? Most of the league’s superstars have signed long-term extensions with their current teams, leading some league executives to call 2022 “The Offseason of the Rotational Players.” Still, superstars like Bradley Beal, James Harden, Kyrie Irving and Russell Westbrook could become
The Washington Wizards remain as the number one team for Bradley Beal. According to oddsmakers at MyBookie, showing -400 odds, the highest probability is Beal staying put and playing his first game of the 2021-22 NBA season with Washington. The 28-year-old even said so himself that he never requested a trade and wants to remain
It seems inevitable Ben Simmons will be traded, but are the Spurs and Timberwolves now the top two suitors? Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers are headed for a parting of ways, it’s really just a matter of time before a trade happens. Philadelphia will have to come down from a high asking price, and
Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant announced a partnership with Weedmaps, a cannabis marketplace, with an eye on destigmatizing marijuana use by athletes. Kevin Durant took a major stand for marijuana use among athletes on Thursday by announcing a partnership with Weedmaps. Weedmaps is a cannabis marketplace that links up users with dispensaries. By partnering with
6:22 PM ET Restricted free-agent swingman Hamidou Diallo has signed a two-year, $10.4 million deal to return to the Detroit Pistons, his agents Thad Foucher and Joe Smith with Wasserman told ESPN. Diallo, 23, arrived in a midseason trade with Oklahoma City and averaged 11 points and five rebounds in 23 minutes a game for
On Wednesday, after a romantic Lake Tahoe trip with 25-year-old model Kendall Jenner, his girlfriend, Phoenix Suns shooting guard Devin Booker attended a rooftop party for Jenner’s 818 Tequila brand inside Sunset Beach Hotel on Shelter Island. This place is located at the eastern end of Long Island’s South Fork in the Hamptons. The two
Australia small forward Dante Exum. (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) NBA free agency has calmed down from the whirlwind start of the summer but there are still some quality free agents out there. All the big fish in 2021 NBA free agency have gone. That doesn’t mean the key piece to an NBA title run isn’t
Star point forward Luka Doncic is set to sign a five-year supermax extension, the first of its kind, with the Dallas Mavericks worth $207 million. The long-awaited supermax extension for Luka Doncic has officially arrived. Doncic will sign a new five-year extension worth $207 million with the Mavericks on Tuesday in Slovenia, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski
NBA Summer League has been a treat to watch so far, but Kings forward Chimezie Metu reaped what he sowed after coming for the Mavs’ Eugene Omoruyi in a scuffle after the whistle. We’ve been getting basketball non-stop this year and it’s been great to experience, especially when we had to experience the bubble, wubble and whatever else you
4:25 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN LeBron James took to Twitter to react to ESPN’s offseason survey of 10 NBA scouts and executives leaving him without a single vote for the title of best player in the NBA. James responded to a tweet sarcastically saying he was washed-up as a player, then sent out a separate
The 2021 MGM Resorts Summer League in Las Vegas, Nevada is now over. The NBA’s Christmas schedule for the upcoming 2021-22 season has also been released. NBA spectators and bettors alike might be wondering now what their teams’ odds are of qualifying for the playoffs in 2022. Thus far, the biggest trade move this offseason
This week on The Long Two, the Grizzlies take low-risk fliers on two potential reclamation projects and Joel Embiid continues a superstar trend. While most of the NBA spent the last month working at a frenetic pace, the Memphis Grizzlies operated slowly and under the radar. Over the course of the last four days, Memphis
4:20 PM ET ESPN News Services The Dallas Mavericks are hiring two-time WNBA champion Kristi Toliver as an assistant coach, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Toliver has previous NBA coaching experience. She spent parts of two seasons as an assistant on the Washington Wizards’ staff. Toliver is currently playing for the Los Angeles Sparks where
The Portland Trail Blazers were the favorites to trade for three-time All-Star Ben Simmons one week ago. However, according to oddsmakers at MyBookie, the Golden State Warriors now possess the best odds (+400) of trading for the guard, and the Minnesota Timberwolves have the second-best odds (+450) as well. The Sacramento Kings are tied with
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. Winning the NBA Summer League title isn’t the most prestigious honor but the Sacramento Kings, in the midst of a 15-year playoff drought, are probably thrilled to have won
DeMar DeRozan, San Antonio Spurs, Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls. (Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports) LOOK: Justin Fields throws a deep bomb at Bears camp by Braulio Perez Can the Bulls with DeMar DeRozan, Lonzo Ball play spoiler in suddenly-loaded Eastern Conference? by Braulio Perez The Chicago Bulls’ new-look roster featuring DeMar DeRozan and Lonzo Ball
Cade Cunningham gives his thoughts on the GOAT debate while relying on what he has seen as a mature 19-year old entering the NBA. You can’t blame Cade Cunningham. After all, he was born in 2001 and it would be impossible for him to remember Michael Jordan’s underrated years as a Washington Wizard in 2001
7:20 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN The past two seasons have seen the NBA — like the rest of the world — deal with unprecedented circumstances. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused as much upheaval across the NBA as any sports league in North America and beyond, with the 2019-20 season ending in a bubble inside the
On Wednesday, Kevin Durant opened up about his departure from the Golden State Warriors after his on-court altercation with Draymond Green, which led to his abrupt, questionable trade to the Brooklyn Nets. The two-time MVP insinuated that the way general manager Bob Myers and head coach Steve Kerr handled the petty quarrel between him and
Getty photographer Gregory Shamus talked with FanSided about the challenges, highs, lows and most iconic sports photos from this year’s Olympic basketball events. The Olympics always create a slew of iconic sports photos and this year, Getty Images helped us round up the best. We’re also talking with specific Getty photographers about the challenges of
NBA Twitter is rooting for LiAngelo Ball to make the Charlotte Hornets’ roster after a report suggested he’s impressed the team during the Summer League. LiAngelo Ball may have what it takes to make it in the NBA after all. On Sunday, ESPN’s Jordan Schultz reported on the Hornets‘ high opinion of the middle Ball
4:37 PM ET Kevin Durant and Draymond Green both blamed Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr and team president/general manager Bob Myers for mishandling the fallout from the players’ argument that ultimately contributed to Durant leaving the team following the 2018-19 season. In an interview posted Wednesday on Bleacher Report, Durant and Green both said
(Image courtesy of NBA) New Los Angeles Lakers signing Russell Westbrook is one of the premier point guards of the last decade. But, though the Oklahoma Thunder legend has an MVP award to his name (2016-17), and despite the fact he is a 9x NBA All-Star, that hasn’t deterred oddsmakers at some of basketball’s leading
Kevin Durant, Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) PFL playoffs: Denis Goltsov is the fighter to watch by Zain Bando Kevin Durant and Draymond Green point the finger at Steve Kerr and Bob Myers for breaking up the Golden State Warriors. While Kevin Durant and Draymond Green seem to have made
10:46 AM ET Longtime NBA journalist Jackie MacMullan will retire from ESPN on Aug. 31, ending a decade-long tenure with the company. MacMullan, who has been an NBA reporter for 40 years, joined ESPN in 2010 after a long career with The Boston Globe. She has appeared on every ESPN platform, as a senior writer
It’s not every day that a player can say they got to the NBA Finals in their rookie season after being undrafted. That was the case for London Perrantes during the 2017-18 season. After a solid four-year career at Virginia under Tony Bennett, Perrantes didn’t hear his name called in the 2017 NBA draft. He
Brooklyn Nets forward Blake Griffin is coming back for another season, signing a one-year deal as the NBA opened free agency. Blake Griffin wants another shot with Kevin Durant, James Harden and Kyrie Irving. The veteran forward signed a one-year deal to return with the Brooklyn Nets for his 12th season as a pro, according
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images There’s plenty of additions that the Los Angeles Lakers can make to their already budding roster. But here’s who they should avoid like the plague. With the Los Angeles Lakers being the talk of the town with their additions of Carmelo Anthony and Russell Westbrook to the roster, the excitement is
12:38 AM ET Associated Press LAS VEGAS — Louis King slammed home a two-handed dunk with a little more than two minutes left in the third quarter of the NBA Summer League championship game, let out a monstrous roar and promptly flexed with authority. Fittingly, it was King who dominated for Sacramento and finished with
In tonight’s 2021 NBA Summer League Championship in Las Vegas, the Boston Celtics will play against the Sacramento Kings. Both teams are entering the finale undefeated at the Thomas & Mack Center. While the Minnesota Timberwolves and New Orleans Pelicans are also undefeated, the Celtics and Kings are competing for the championship due to their
Marcus Smart personally announced his new contract extension with the Boston Celtics in an amazing Twitter message. The Boston Celtics experienced some turnover at the point guard position in the offseason. Kemba Walker, their 2019 free agency acquisition is gone, and the team essentially replaced him with former Los Angeles Laker Dennis Schroder. But there is
Ben Simmons of the Philadelphia 76ers drives against Danilo Gallinari of the Atlanta Hawks. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) 3 ring-chasing vets the Lakers should avoid at all costs by Baigen Seawell The Ben Simmons trade speculation is heating up and it’s getting more and more outrageous, with the Philadelphia 76ers now holding out
7:26 AM ET Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid is finalizing a four-year, $196 million supermax contract extension, sources told ESPN. The extension keeps Embiid under contract with the Sixers through the 2026-27 season for a total of $261 million. The four-time All-Star already was set to make $65 million over the final two years
Four-time All-Star Joel Embiid has officially finalized a four-year, $196 million contract extension with the Philadelphia 76ers. The deal guarantees the star $261 million. The center earned $29,542,010 last season and is set to earn $31,579,390 next season. In the 2020-21 NBA season, Embiid averaged 28.5 points, 10.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game in
All-Star point guard Trae Young is expected to sign a five-year contract extension with the Atlanta Hawks worth $170 million. The Hawks and Trae Young are ready to keep the train rolling in Atlanta. As soon as the NBA allows, the Hawks and Young are expected to finalize a maximum contract extension for five years
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. This morning ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne broke the news that the Philadelphia 76ers were signing Joel Embiid to a four-year, $196 million supermax extension. Among the reported details — the
11:28 AM ET A showdown between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers will highlight the NBA’s Christmas Day schedule, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. In addition to the star-studded, cross-country clash, the Atlanta Hawks will travel to take on the New York Knicks. That game will be a rematch of a first-round playoff series
Marcus Smart has agreed to a four-year, $77 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics. With no player option, the deal starts in the 2022-23 season. Smart was selected sixth overall by the Celtics in the 2014 NBA Draft. In the 2020-21 NBA season, the seventh-year player averaged 13.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 5.7 assists
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 10: Bradley Beal #4 of the United States passes against Nigeria during an exhibition game at Michelob ULTRA Arena ahead of the Tokyo Olympic Games on July 10, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Nigeria defeated the United States 90-87. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) Arike Ogunbowale was tweeting during timeouts
This Lakers roster is loaded with former All-Stars. When would this group have been at its hypothetical best and what does it mean for their championship hopes this year? In terms of historic accolades, the current Los Angeles Lakers roster is loaded. With the offseason additions of Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard and Russell Westbrook, they
7:15 AM ET Tuesday’s Las Vegas Summer League championship game (9 p.m. ET on ESPN/ESPN App) will feature the Boston Celtics and the Sacramento Kings — both undefeated coming into the finale. Boston’s run has been fueled by a pair of second-year players in Payton Pritchard and Aaron Nesmith, a backcourt duo that has shined
According to BetOnline, Detroit Pistons’ Cade Cunningham has the best odds (+250) of winning Rookie of the Year for the 2021-22 NBA season. Next, Houston Rockets‘ Jalen Green has the second-best odds (+275), followed by Jalen Suggs (+650), Evan Mobley (+800), Scottie Barnes +1200), Alperen Sengun (+1200) and others. Point guard Cunningham was selected first
George Karl speculates on what it will be like to see Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James play as teammates now that they are with the Los Angeles Lakers. Few coaches know what Carmelo Anthony can and can’t do than his former Denver Nuggets head coach George Karl. Anthony is in the twilight of his NBA career
7:59 PM ET Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart has agreed to a four-year, $77 million contract extension, sources told ESPN. The extension — which begins with the 2022-23 season — is the maximum allowable off Smart’s $14.3 million salary for 2021-22. The deal does not include a player option. Smart has developed into one of
In the 2021 MGM Resorts NBA Summer League, in the matchup between the Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks, Kings forward Chimezie Metu punched Mavericks forward Eugene Omoruyi after a hard foul. The fight occurred with 3:03 remaining in the fourth quarter of the game. It appears that Metu used more of his elbow than his
After his nine years in Toronto came to an end, title-winning point guard Kyle Lowry’s farewell to the Raptors was long and emotional. Kyle Lowry is heading to South Beach to play for the Miami Heat after almost a decade with the Toronto Raptors. Considering how long he lived in Toronto and what he accomplished
Pascal Siakam of the Toronto Raptors handles the ball defended by Terance Mann of the LA Clippers. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) Zhang Lipeng challenges former ONE Championship champ Shinya Aoki by Amy Kaplan After rumors circling over the past few weeks about the fate of Pascal Siakam and Toronto, he makes the decision to
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The Los Angeles Clippers made the biggest move of their offseason on Sunday, sending Patrick Beverley, Rajon Rondo and Daniel Oturu to the Memphis Grizzlies for Eric Bledsoe (who
Dalano Banton, the Toronto Raptors’ No. 46 pick of the 2021 NBA Draft, has officially signed a two-year, $2.5 million rookie deal with the organization. Banton is the first Canadian player in NBA history to be drafted by the Raptors. The signing was made official this morning. In 58 combined games played at Western Kentucky
The Detroit Pistons will take on the Orlando Magic at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas Nevada as the NBA Summer League schedule winds down on Monday night. Detroit has split its first four Summer League contests while the Magic also own a 2-2 record through their first four exhibition games. This game
Jordan Bell, Golden State Warriors. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) The Golden State Warriors could bring back one of these former teammates of Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green this summer. After having missed out on the NBA playoffs the last two years, reaching into the past a bit could make some sense for the Golden State Warriors,
SPLIT, CROATIA – JULY 01: Dennis Schröder in the company of his wife and children cheers the German team from the stands the 2020 FIBA Men’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament game between Russia and Germany at Spaladium Arena on July 1, 2021 in Split, Croatia. (Photo by Ico Cagalj/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images) NFL Twitter dunks on Mitchell
Blake Griffin, Brooklyn Nets. (Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports) Noah Syndergaard blasts ESPN in NSFW Instagram story (Photo) by Braulio Perez Notre Dame football: Brian Kelly names starting QB for season-opener by John Buhler Blake Griffin throws a bucket of cold water on the Los Angeles Lakers superteam hype. Brooklyn Nets forward Blake
10:11 PM ET Associated Press MIAMI — Udonis Haslem is officially back with the Miami Heat. Haslem signed another contract — the 10th of his career — with the Heat on Sunday, assuring that he will return for a 19th season with Miami. It is a one-year deal worth about $2.8 million. The 41-year-old would
8:28 PM ET The LA Clippers are trading Patrick Beverley, Rajon Rondo and Daniel Oturu to the Memphis Grizzlies for guard Eric Bledsoe, sources told ESPN on Sunday. The deal saves the Clippers $30 million in luxury tax and creates an $8.3 million traded-player exception that they will have a year to use. Bledsoe, 31,
Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons and Jalen Green of the Houston Rockets during the 2021 NBA Summer League. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) Angel Hernandez is now umping the Little League World Series by John Buhler The matchup between Houston’s Jalen Green and Detroit’s Cade Cunningham was must see TV last night with Green tallying
Philadelphia 76ers center Andre Drummond saved Deon, his two-year-old son, from drowning in his pool. Around family members, Deon was sitting on the cement ledge of the inground pool moments prior to falling in. The pool also appears to be at least six feet deep. According to his Ring surveillance video, without a second’s hesitation,
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers. (Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) The Lakers have already made a few big splashes this offseason, but what under-the-radar additions could make sense for their rotation? The Los Angeles Lakers have made some major pickups over the past few weeks. Acquiring Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony made for great
Five-time All-Star Kawhi Leonard has signed a four-year, $176.3 million contract to remain with the Los Angeles Clippers. In the 2020-21 NBA season, Leonard averaged 24.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game in 52 games played. Last season, he ranked 16th overall for points per game and 10th in steals, averaging 1.6 per
Los Angeles Lakers guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and JR Smith shake hands during game one of the Western Conference Finals of the 2020 NBA Playoffs against the Denver Nuggets. (Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports) This latest Dak Prescott health update should have Cowboys fans worried by Scott Rogust JR Smith is taking his talents to Aggieland
9:41 PM ET Orlando Magic rookie Jalen Suggs, the No. 5 pick in last month’s NBA draft, has a left thumb sprain and will be sidelined for the remainder of NBA summer league as a precaution. Suggs suffered the injury in the first half of Thursday’s game against the Boston Celtics. The team said an
(Image courtesy of Sharp Magazine) Oddsmakers at the Bovada sportsbook are offering -400 odds on Miami Heat ending up in hot water over a recent deal that saw former Raptor Kyle Lowry head south to the heat from up north in Toronto. After finishing sixth in the eastern conference and getting wrecked 4-0 by the
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 15: Lauri Markkanen #24 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on May 15, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User
The Dallas Mavericks’ offseason has been rather underwhelming, but the team can redeem themselves by acquiring Goran Dragic to team with Luka Doncic. The Dallas Mavericks accomplished their goal of locking in superstar guard Luka Doncic to a five-year supermax contract extension, but other than that, the front office did not do much to help
Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, Team USA. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) This Angels Shohei Ohtani giveaway might be the best thing we’ve ever seen (Photo) by Scott Rogust Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green showed up to Summer League wearing his Olympic gold medal. The Summer Olympics have reached their conclusion, and one
9:03 AM ET Thanasis Antetokounmpo has re-signed with the Milwaukee Bucks, the team announced on Friday. The length of the deal is two years, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Antetokounmpo, the older brother of two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo, played in 57 games during the Bucks’ championship season, averaging 2.9 points and 2.2
The Houston Rockets’ No. 2 pick of the 2021 NBA Draft might be finished playing in the 2021 MGM Resorts NBA Summer League. Jalen Green, the former NBA G League Ignite, sustained a hamstring injury in the second quarter against the Toronto Raptors. Before the team’s third Summer League game, the shooting guard was averaging
Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) Field of Dreams game was a perfect blend of past and present by David Salituro Damian Lillard just dropped huge hint about him wanting to join the Los Angeles Lakers. After nine years starring for the Portland Trail Blazers, Damian Lillard has
Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers, Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors. (Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) Watch: Ernie Johnson drops the mic with poignant message to Alabama football team by John Buhler One NBA insider suggests the Golden State Warriors trade Draymond Green to the Philadelphia 76ers for Ben Simmons. While appearing on FS1’s First Things First,
8:00 AM ET NBA Insiders Which rookies and veterans have surprised the most after one week of summer league basketball? Who have been the biggest disappointments? Jalen Green and Jalen Suggs have had stellar performances in their summer league debuts, but are they worthy of being named the MVP of Vegas? Players like Payton Pritchard
Thanasis Antetokounmpo, the older brother of two-time MVP Giannis, has agreed to a new two-year contract with the Milwaukee Bucks. Both brothers won their first NBA championship together against the Phoenix Suns in the 2021 NBA Finals. In the 2020-21 NBA season, in 57 games played, the small forward averaged nearly three points and 2.2
The Chicago Bulls continue to close the gap on the top of the Eastern Conference after acquiring DeMar DeRozan and signing Lonzo Ball. So how good can the Bulls be this year? If you were looking for some even bigger news in NBA free agency this week, the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs have
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 list of available NBA free agents has shrunk quickly. Kawhi Leonard is still out there but almost certainly going back to the Clippers. Dennis Schroder has solid numbers
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) Patriots vs Washington Football Team NFL live stream reddit for Mac Jones debut by FanSided Staff Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo enjoyed being at the Wisconsin State Fair. Fresh off an NBA championship, Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is firmly a man of the people, as he was
11:40 PM ET Houston Rockets rookie Jalen Green, the No. 2 overall draft pick in last month’s NBA draft, left Thursday’s 92-76 loss to the Toronto Raptors in the NBA Summer League with a sore hamstring. The Rockets don’t believe the hamstring is a “significant concern,” but he will undergo an MRI as a precaution,
Charlotte Hornets power forward PJ Washington is denying the social media rumor that he is paying $200k per month in child support payments to ex-girlfriend Brittany Renner. Yesterday on Twitter, the 22-year-old power forward broke his silence. He posted, “Stop the cap.” For older adults, this is slang for “stop the lies.” Renner is a
Kelly Oubre remained without a deal well into NBA free agency deals being announced, and the Charlotte Hornets have swooped in to buy low. Days into the NBA free agency period, at least when deals can be announced, Kelly Oubre lingered as one of the top names still available. Thursday night that changed, with Yahoo!’s
The Charlotte Hornets are reportedly finalizing a contract extension with head coach James Borrego. The Charlotte Hornets enjoyed some great success this past season, where they were just two play-in round victories away from clinching their first playoff berth since 2016. As a result of a rather successful campaign, the Hornets are rewarding head coach
Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard. (Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports) Braves: 2 prospect call ups that must happen in September by John Buhler Star forward Kawhi Leonard is signing a massive four-year deal worth $176.3 million to stay with the Los Angeles Clippers. Kawhi Leonard is staying in Los Angeles with the Clippers. The free agent forward
6:29 PM ET Kawhi Leonard will remain with the LA Clippers long term after re-signing with the team Thursday, the team announced. Terms of the deal weren’t revealed by the Clippers, but a source confirmed with ESPN that Leonard signed a four-year, $176.3 million max deal that includes a player option in the fourth year.
Restricted free agent Frank Jackson has agreed to a two-year deal with the Detroit Pistons. In 40 games played last season on the Pistons, he averaged a career-high 9.8 points, 2.2 rebounds and a field goal shooting percentage of 45.7 percent. From behind the arc, he had a career-high season average 40.7 percent as well.
LaMarcus Aldridge watches his shot in the first half against the Los Angeles Lakers. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) Raiders potentially bringing in Gerald McCoy to bolster defense by Alicia de Artola Fifteen-year vet LaMarcus Aldridge is consulting with his medical doctors and heavily considering a return to competition after retiring due to concerns over his heart.
Kevin Durant. (Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports) NBA fans exclusively rooting against Rudy Gobert in gold medal game by Scott Rogust Nets star Kevin Durant made Stephen A Smith look a fool for speculating about him rejecting an extension when he reportedly agreed to a deal hours later. Stephen A Smith is wrong about a lot
The biggest question of the 76ers’ offseason isn’t whether they’ll trade Ben Simmons, but how much he’s worth to the rest of the NBA. In the summer of 2019, the Philadelphia 76ers signed Ben Simmons to a five-year, $170 million extension, likely with the expectation that he’d be worth the investment and then some. Two
7:30 AM ET ON JULY 18, 2002, Kobe Bryant approached Rucker Park, the streetball institution in Harlem. He wore a powder blue sleeveless shirt and dark shades; an oversized key-pendant swung from his chain with each step. Onlookers sprinted toward the park’s metal fencing, meant to separate superstars from the streets, to catch a glimpse.
Free agent point guard Elfrid Payton has agreed to a one-year deal with the Phoenix Suns. During the 2017-18 NBA season, the then 23-year-old player was traded by the Orlando Magic to the Suns for a 2018 second-round pick (Jarred Vanderbilt was selected). The Louisiana native averaged 11.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 6.2 assists and one
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. Left to linger long enough, ramifications spider-webbing away through the seasons, some NBA trades have a way of taking on a mythic quality. In my basketball lifetime, I’m not
Former Los Angeles Lakers point guard Dennis Schroder is signing a short-term contract with the Boston Celtics. Dennis Schroder was confident he would receive a huge offer from a team in free agency this offseason, given the amount of organizations in need of a point guard. Unfortunately for him, the market dried up on him
Aug 11, 2021; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II (0) shoots against Toronto Raptors guard Dalano Banton (45) during an NBA Summer League game at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports Shohei Ohtani adds to home run total with game-tying shot (Video) by Scott Rogust
6:31 PM ET The Brooklyn Nets are hiring former Orlando Magic and Charlotte Hornets coach Steve Clifford as a coaching consultant, sources told ESPN. In his consulting role, Clifford — who was the most sought-after assistant in the marketplace — will be with the team periodically throughout the 2021-2022 season. Clifford has history with Nets
According to oddsmakers at BetOnline, the Portland Trail Blazers are the favorites to trade for Ben Simmons, if the 76ers are still aiming to move on from the three-time All-Star point guard. The Trail Blazers’ front office told reporters a few days ago that the organization has no future plans to surrender a first-round draft
John Collins, Atlanta Hawks. (Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports) Kemba Walker looks to reclaim MSG magic, joining the Knicks by John Buhler The Atlanta Hawks and free agent forward John Collins have agreed to a massive new contract. While he initially tested the market, the Atlanta Hawks were able to retain forward John Collins in his
Hawks guard Trae Young. (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) 3 rules in MMA that need to be changed by Thomas Albano Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young ran on the court after Sharife Cooper hit a game-winner in an NBA Summer League game. NBA Summer League is currently underway, and if you thought it was anything but
Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors is guarded by De’Anthony Melton of the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Play-In Tournament game. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) Jalen Green has monster Summer League performance against Cade Cunningham by Baigen Seawell After Stephen Curry opted out of the Tokyo Olympics, the question has come to fruition
6:43 PM ET Former NBA standout JR Smith has enrolled at North Carolina A&T and intends to join the historically black university’s men’s golf team if he gets cleared by the NCAA, the university confirmed on Wednesday. North Carolina A&T athletics spokesman Brian Holloway told ESPN that Smith is officially enrolled in the school and
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, the former talented star of the Villanova Wildcats, has agreed to a four-year, $8 million rookie deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder. The six-foot-nine power forward was the 32nd pick of the 2021 NBA Draft. Oklahoma City traded their 34th and 36th pick in order to move up to select the Wildcat. On
Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards. (Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports) Notre Dame students and faculty go to war with Chick-fil-A, Lindsey Graham by John Buhler Panthers make Taylor Moton NFL’s 2nd highest-paid RT in new contract extension by Braulio Perez Bradley Beal will be replaced on the Team USA roster ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
Spencer Dinwiddie, Brooklyn Nets. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) Tyreek Hill leaves practice early for the Chiefs by John Buhler The Washington Wizards are close to signing Spencer Dinwiddie away from the Brooklyn Nets. Entering day two of 2021 NBA free agency, the Washington Wizards are nearing a deal that would bring Brooklyn Nets shooting guard Spencer
Carmelo Anthony finally joined the Los Angeles Lakers this year, but he says he’s been connected to the franchise for much longer. The Los Angeles Lakers and Carmelo Anthony have had opportunities to come together in the past. It took until 2021 to make it happen. Anthony had a free-agency meeting with LA back in
1:38 AM ET ESPN News Services In a featured showdown between the No. 1 and No. 2 draft picks, it was Jalen Green who received more offensive help from his teammates in the Houston Rockets‘ 111-91 win over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Green — the
The bad news for San Antonio Spurs fans is that their team missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year. The good news is that the franchise seems to have a solid direction moving forward. Through the draft and free agency, GM Brian Wright and the front office have made several moves this offseason, which
The Utah Jazz took care of their biggest offseason priority by agreeing to re-sign Mike Conley. The Utah Jazz‘s top priority in 2021 NBA free agency has already been checked off the list. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania at the onset of Monday’s free-agency mayhem, the Jazz have agreed to a three-year, $68 million
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. NBA Summer League is our first real look at rookies against NBA-level(ish) competition, and there are a lot of ways they can impress. Some rookies generate buzz simply by
10:24 PM ET While Russell Westbrook spent the first decade of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder, maturing from first-round pick to All-Star to league MVP, the thought of returning to Los Angeles someday to play for his hometown Lakers seemed further and further from reality. “Being from L.A., you always wish that you
Free agent guard Dennis Schroder has agreed to a one-year, $5.9 million deal with the Boston Celtics, according to sources. On November 18, 2020, Schroder was traded by the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Los Angeles Lakers for Danny Green and Jaden McDaniels. In the 2020-21 NBA season, in 61 games played on the Lakers,
The Miami Heat completed their sign-and-trade with the Toronto Raptors that officially landed them veteran point guard Kyle Lowry. Once the free agency negotiation window opened up earlier this week, the available point guards flew off the open market. While Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry was not the first to be taken off the board,
The NBA is investigating potential tampering from the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls for their respective deals for Kyle Lowry and Lonzo Ball. Once the NBA free agency negotiation window opened up last Monday, two of the biggest point guards on both the unrestricted and restricted markets quickly flew off the board. The Chicago Bulls
As he remains available and they look to fill a need, are Dennis Schroder and the Golden State Warriors a marriage waiting to happen? A headline was made when it was reported Dennis Schroder turned down a four-year, $84 million contract offer from the Los Angeles Lakers as he eyed a deal in the $100
7:12 PM ET Free-agent point guard Dennis Schroder is headed to the Boston Celtics, he announced Tuesday on his Instagram account. The deal is for one year and will be for the $5.9 million exception, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Schroder, 27, turned down the maximum extension the Los Angeles Lakers were eligible to offer
For the past several years, the Western Conference has widely been considered the deeper, more talented conference. Don’t look now, but the teams in the East have caught up and passed them as the premier conference in the league. Considering the elite-level talent (superstars) and the rising young stars, the argument could easily be made
The Orlando Magic are hoping they got an NBA Draft steal in Jalen Suggs. He looked ready to prove it in his Summer League debut. The fact that Jalen Suggs was available for the Orlando Magic with the No. 5 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft shows just how deep the draft class was this
11:01 AM ET Early Tuesday morning, members of the Dallas Mavericks met with star guard Luka Doncic in a Slovenian hotel to officially put pen to paper on a five-year, $207 million contract extension. And hours later they were on a stage to announce it, with Doncic saying he “never had a doubt” about signing
Milwaukee Bucks assistant coach Ben Sullivan will join Ime Udoka’s coaching staff with the Boston Celtics. After being hired by the Bucks organization in 2018, Sullivan helped coach the team to their first NBA championship win since the 1970-71 season. The six-foot-ten former international player also helped Milwaukee to finish 46-26 (.639) last season, ranking
Lakers center Montrezl Harrell is opting into his player option for next season, with the opt-in possibly facilitating a trade for Sacramento Kings star Buddy Hield … until the door slammed shut. The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly working to bring another star to LA, and Montrezl Harrell may help them do it. Harrell is
With apparent pressure from ownership, the Sacramento Kings front office is eyeing a couple big names to pair with De’Aaron Fox. The Sacramento Kings have not made the playoffs since 2006, and they haven’t won more than 45 percent of their games since the 2007-08 campaign. General manager Monte McNair is the latest to take
Hornets forward LiAngelo Ball. (Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports) Charles Woodson sang to his mom during his HOF speech (Video) by Alicia de Artola LiAngelo Ball was the surprise standout for the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA Summer League on Sunday, putting up 16 points in his debut. LiAngelo Ball is scratching and clawing for
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