Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson recently said goodbye to his beloved English bulldog, Rocco....

<p>Dallas Mavericks guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a> recently said goodbye to his beloved English bulldog, Rocco. </p><p>Thompson's father, Mychal, revealed Wednesday on ESPN 710's "<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hr-3-broke/id207526159?i=1000710351096">Mason &amp; Ireland</a>" show that Rocco died at the age of 13.</p><p>"We had to put Rocco, Klay's dog, down over the weekend," Mychal said, later adding, "We're all sad, but Rocco had a great, long life."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rocco rose to fame during Klay's time with the Golden State Warriors and had his own <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rocco.thompson/?hl=en">Instagram account</a> documenting his adventures. Klay even <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/news/1497292">created</a> an Anta shoe in Rocco's honor. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVilECjP4BN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVilECjP4BN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVilECjP4BN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Klay Thompson (@klaythompson)</a></p>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Klay spent 13 years with the Warriors before being traded to the Mavs last summer. The four-time NBA champion averaged 14 points, 3.4 rebounds, and two assists in 72 games this season.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - FEBUARY 2: Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on February 2, 2025 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Klay's dog Rocco dies at 13

Matthew Stafford doesn't expect to be among the NFL players competing in Olympic flag football.  ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a> doesn't expect to be among the NFL players competing in Olympic flag football. </p><p>The Los Angeles Rams quarterback had a humorous response Thursday when asked if he'd be interested in playing for the U.S. flag football team at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, acknowledging it's probably not realistic.</p><p>"Sure. I mean, nobody's gonna want me to but yeah, sure," Stafford said, via <a href="https://x.com/camdasilva/status/1928131587402592706">Cameron DaSilva of The Rams Wire</a>. "It'd be fun. I'll coach."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>NFL owners <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3288768" href="https://thescore.com/news/3288768">unanimously approved</a> a proposal to allow players to compete in flag football at the 2028 Games, where the sport will be making its Olympic debut. Six men's and women's teams will be composed of 10 players per squad, with the games being played five-on-five.</p><p>Stafford, 37, is entering his 17th NFL season and fifth with the Rams. He's under contract through 2026.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 24: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Los Angeles Rams before a game against the Minnesota Vikings at SoFi Stadium on October 24, 2024 in Inglewood, California.

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The anticipated race between Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill and Olympic sprinter Noah L...

<p>The anticipated race between Miami Dolphins wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83498" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83498">Tyreek Hill</a> and Olympic sprinter Noah Lyles is still on. </p><p>Hill told reporters Wednesday that he plans to go through with the race and will be racing "some random guys" in Los Angeles next month as part of his preparation. </p><p>"I got a race June 13, I'm doing a little ... trial race, so I can get in shape for that or whatever," Hill <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhmgerGNJP0">said</a>. "Looking forward to it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hill first challenged Lyles to a race after the latter won gold for the United States in the 100-meter final at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The duo officially <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3217792" href="https://thescore.com/news/3217792">agreed</a> to race earlier this year, though no location or distance has been announced as of yet. </p><p>Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniels was asked about the race and said he knows nothing about it. </p><p>"I have no idea, nor do I care," McDaniels said, according to <a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/tyreek-hill-says-he-still-plans-to-race-noah-lyles-which-is-news-to-mike-mcdaniel">Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio</a>. "First, theoretically, if people are competing, and it's helping their training - as long as he doesn't train to be a sprinter and he's running routes while he's doing it, that's cool.</p><p>"Whether I'm going to stand and say whether I'll allow something - I don't even know where that stands nor did I know that it existed, so we'll cross that page. Right now, I'm worried about (practice) and making sure that he aligns properly in formations before he runs routes and doesn't catch the ball."</p><p>Hill is coming off a down season in which he caught 81 passes for 959 yards and six touchdowns in 17 games. </p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 20: Miami Dolphins Wide Receiver Tyreek Hill (10) jogs across the field during the NFL game between the Miami Dolphins and the Indianapolis Colts on October 20, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Tyreek still plans to race Noah Lyles: 'Looking forward to it'

Magic Johnson admits he was wrong about the Oklahoma City Thunder.   Following their series-clinc...

<p>Magic Johnson admits he was wrong about the Oklahoma City Thunder. </p><p>Following their series-clinching victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night, Johnson took to X to issue an apology to the Thunder for doubting them. </p><p>"I want to apologize to the Oklahoma City Thunder for underestimating them and not thinking they were ready to compete for a Championship," the NBA legend <a href="https://x.com/MagicJohnson/status/1927932512984080416">wrote</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Johnson also praised Thunder general manager Sam Presti. </p><p>"Oklahoma City Thunder's fan base needs to give their GM Sam Presti a standing ovation for putting together an amazing roster!" Johnson <a href="https://x.com/MagicJohnson/status/1927932731352133710">added</a>.</p><p>The Thunder beat the Timberwolves 124-94 to win the Western Conference finals 4-1 and secure a spot in the NBA Finals, where they'll face either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks. It will be Oklahoma City's first finals appearance since 2012. </p>

Former US basketball player Earvin "Magic" Johnson speaks during Billie Jean King's Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony in front of the W hotel, in Los Angeles, California, on April 7, 2025.

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Magic Johnson apologizes for 'underestimating' Thunder

Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink has an issue with the WNBA's 12-player roster limit.   O...

<p>Los Angeles Sparks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121610" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121610">Cameron Brink</a> has an issue with the WNBA's 12-player roster limit. </p><p>On the latest episode of her "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7blNGtnjF0">Straight to Cam</a>" podcast, Brink said the league should focus on expanding roster sizes before it adds more teams.</p><p>"It's so unfortunate that rosters can only hold 12," Brink said. "Personally, I think roster sizes need to be expanded before we add any more expansion teams because it's kind of crazy. Twelve people for a roster? It's insane."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The WNBA expanded to 13 teams this season with the addition of the Golden State Valkyries and is set to welcome the Toronto Tempo and a Portland-based franchise in 2026.</p><p>Brink, the No. 2 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, has yet to play this season as she continues to recover from a torn ACL sustained during her rookie campaign.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MAY 18: Cameron Brink #22 of the Los Angeles Sparks and A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces wait for a Sparks player to shoot a free throw in the third quarter of their game at Michelob ULTRA Arena on May 18, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Aces defeated the Sparks 89-82.

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Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton picked the brain of WNBA legend Sue Bird to help prepare fo...

<p>Indiana Pacers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> picked the brain of WNBA legend Sue Bird to help prepare for this year's NBA playoffs. </p><p>In an interview with <a href="https://x.com/BleacherReport/status/1927724750974980279">Bleacher Report's Taylor Rooks</a>, the four-time WNBA champion and Hall of Famer confirmed Haliburton reached out before the playoffs seeking advice on when to be a scorer and when to be a facilitator.</p><p>"Clearly, he's figured it out," Bird said. "I think my favorite part about watching Tyrese in this run is, yes, the clutch plays, the big moments. But it's been a little up and down at times, and that's the reality. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I think a lot of times you talk about top players, you talk about All-Stars, and, you know, you see their great play. But it always comes with a bad quarter, a bad game, a bad stretch, and it's really how you respond to that. That's always the differentiator between good players and great players."</p><p>Haliburton was able to connect with Bird thanks to Pacers assistant coach Jenny Boucek, who initially put the two in touch a few years ago, according to <a href="https://x.com/ScottAgness/status/1927739526203494529">Scott Agness of Fieldhouse Files</a>.</p><p>Haliburton put on a historic performance in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals against the New York Knicks on Tuesday, finishing with 32 points, 15 assists, 12 rebounds, and no turnovers to lead the Pacers to a 130-121 win and 3-1 series lead.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - MAY 6: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers celebrates after the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Round 2 Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 6, 2025 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Haliburton reached out to Sue Bird for advice before playoffs

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill had some harsh words for Travis Hunter while weighing in...

<p>Miami Dolphins wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83498" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83498">Tyreek Hill</a> had some harsh words for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209912" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209912">Travis Hunter</a> while weighing in about the rookie's future.</p><p>Hill threw some shade at Hunter during a recent appearance on streamer Adin Ross' Kick channel, <a href="https://x.com/_MLFootball/status/1927422739909898613">responding</a>, "He gonna be ass" when asked for his thoughts on the Jacksonville Jaguars two-way phenom.</p><p>The 31-year-old later clarified that he was joking and offered a more complimentary take on Hunter and fellow former Colorado standout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Travis gonna be a dawg, Shedeur gonna be a dawg," Hill said, according to The Sun's <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/sport/14338127/tyreek-hill-verdict-travis-hunter-nfl-season/">Tony Robertson</a>.</p><p>Hunter, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, was selected No. 2 overall by the Jaguars in the 2025 NFL Draft. He's expected to play both sides of the ball at the NFL level, just as he did at Colorado. </p><p>The Dolphins' lone 2025 matchup against Hunter and the Jaguars will be a preseason game Aug. 23 at Hard Rock Stadium.</p>

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Tyreek Hill #10 of the Miami Dolphins in action against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium on September 30, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a>' agent is putting the NBA on notice amid trade rumors surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers guard.</p><p>Reaves' agent, Aaron Reilly, reposted a highlight clip of his client on X over the weekend, promising that big things are coming.</p><p>"Next year is going to be a show," Reilly <a href="https://x.com/AMRAgency/status/1926279515237433460">wrote</a>. "People really have no idea what's to come. Keep putting him in trade rumors for second-string centers."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Reaves enjoyed a breakout season with the Lakers in 2024-25, averaging a career-high 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game while shooting 48.1% from the field and 37% from the three-point range.</p><p>The 26-year-old has two years remaining on the four-year, $56-million contract he signed in July 2023, which includes a player option for the 2026-27 campaign.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 17: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on January 17, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Reaves' agent warns critics: 'Next year is going to be a show'

Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to see the NBA All-Star Game switch things up next year.   The Milwau...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> wants to see the NBA All-Star Game switch things up next year. </p><p>The Milwaukee Bucks star responded to a proposal of a Team USA vs. Team World basketball series Monday on X, saying the NBA should use the format for the 2026 All-Star Game.</p><p>"This should be next year All-Star Game format!! Must-see basketball," he <a href="https://x.com/Giannis_An34/status/1927099523622420917">wrote</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Antetokounmpo could get his wish, as NBA commissioner Adam Silver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3277575" href="https://thescore.com/news/3277575">said</a> last month that the league is considering a new international format for the 2026 All-Star Game that would be "to some extent leaning a little bit on this idea of U.S. versus rest of the world."</p><p>The NBA used a mini-tournament format for this year's All-Star Game, which Silver admitted was a "miss." </p><p>Next year's All-Star Game will take place Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - FEBRUARY 16: Giannis Antetokounmpo talks to the media during a press conference as part of NBA All-Star Weekend on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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It looks like Jaxson Dart won't be switching back to his college jersey number.  The New York Gia...

<p>It looks like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209911" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Jaxson Dart</a> won't be switching back to his college jersey number.</p><p>The New York Giants rookie quarterback donned No. 2 at Ole Miss, but he told <a href="https://x.com/cllctMedia/status/1926818423062847539">Cllct Media</a> that Deonte Banks' asking price for the jersey number was too steep.</p><p>"Yeah, it was too much," Dart said. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Banks recently switched to No. 2 after striking a deal with new Giants starting quarterback Russell Wilson for his No. 3 jersey. </p><p>Dart has been wearing No. 6 at Giants practices so far, though he hasn't fully committed to the jersey number as of yet. </p><p>"I think we'll come to a final decision here soon," he said at rookie minicamp earlier this month, according to <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/05/26/sports/jaxson-dart-draws-line-at-buying-no-2-jersey-from-giants-deonte-banks/">Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post</a>. "Quite honestly, I kind of have to just look at the pictures to see if I like myself in No. 6."</p><p>The Giants traded up to select Dart with the 25th overall pick in this year's draft. He was the second quarterback off the board behind Cam Ward.</p>

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - MAY 09: Jaxson Dart #6 of the New York Giants during rookie minicamp at NY Giants Quest Diagnostics Training Center on May 09, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Giants' Dart: Banks wanted 'too much' for No. 2 jersey

Aaron Rodgers is on the fence about whether he wants to end his NFL career as a member of the Gre...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> is on the fence about whether he wants to end his NFL career as a member of the Green Bay Packers.</p><p>A fan asked the free-agent quarterback about potentially retiring as a Packer at a live taping of the <a href="https://youtu.be/NPTN9LgnMSA?feature=shared&amp;t=4250">"Ya Neva Know"</a> podcast Friday, and Rodgers questioned how much it would affect his legacy with the franchise.</p><p>"You know, I've thought about that and I don't understand what the reason for that is," Rodgers said. "At the same time, I grew up a Niner fan and most of my favorite players retired as a Niner. Jerry Rice, who went to three other teams, came back and retired as a Niner. So I understand the cool thing about it, but if I didn't do it, would that make a difference in how I'm viewed in the Packers' eyes?"</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rodgers spent the first 18 seasons of his NFL career with the Packers, leading them to a Super Bowl championship in 2011. He left as the franchise's all-time leader in career passing touchdowns with 475 and ranks second behind Brett Favre with 59,055 passing yards.</p><p>"When I retire, in four years I'm going to go into the Packer Hall of Fame," Rodgers said. "May or may not get my number retired - whether they do or not, that's fine. ... There's a lot of love from me and how I feel about the team. If I do or if I don't (retire as a Packer), I don't think it should make a difference. I'm not sure yet. If they approach me about it, I probably would."</p>

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 19: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers reacts after defeating the Los Angeles Rams 24-12 at Lambeau Field on December 19, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Rodgers unsure about retiring as a Packer 

UFC fans believe it's time for Jon Jones to give up the heavyweight title.  A petition was recent...

<p>UFC fans believe it's time for Jon Jones to give up the heavyweight title.</p><p>A petition was recently launched on <a href="https://www.change.org/p/petition-to-strip-jon-jones-of-the-undisputed-ufc-heavyweight-belt">Change.org</a> asking UFC CEO Dana White to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289449" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289449">strip Jones</a> of the heavyweight belt, citing the fact that he's only fought twice in the last five years.</p><p>"Jon Jones is now the longest reigning champion in UFC heavyweight history and has only fought two times in that period," the petition reads. "There is a clear interim champion, Tom Aspinall, who has defended his interim championship belt. Aspinall is ready to fight Jones. Jones refuses to fight him.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Therefore, we as fans must let Dana White know: It is time to strip (Jon) Jones of the heavyweight title. He clearly has no intentions of fighting anytime soon."</p><p>As of Friday afternoon, the petition has garnered over 28,000 signatures. </p><p>Jones suggested Wednesday on X that it could be a while before he returns to the Octagon, <a href="https://x.com/JonnyBones/status/1925241636210057542">saying</a> he's had "many breaks" throughout his career and is "genuinely enjoying life."</p><p>The 37-year-old last fought in November at UFC 309, where he defeated Stipe Miocic to retain the heavyweight championship. </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 16: Jon Jones of the United States of America reacts after his TKO victory against Stipe Miocic of the United States of America in the UFC heavyweight championship fight during the UFC 309 event at Madison Square Garden on November 16, 2024 in New York City.

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UFC fans petition to strip Jon Jones of heavyweight belt

Rich Paul, the longtime agent and friend of LeBron James, came to his defense after Michael Jorda...

<p>Rich Paul, the longtime agent and friend of LeBron James, came to his defense after Michael Jordan's agent accused the Los Angeles Lakers star of cherry-picking teams to win championships.</p><p>"I just thought that was very unfair and a little beneath David Falk for a number of reasons," Paul said Thursday during an appearance on "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sbQAKAbQ98">The Rich Eisen Show</a>." "We can't have revisionist history, and we all want to determine who's the GOAT and who's the best and so on and so forth. But I just thought that was a little beneath David to say that."</p><p>Falk, who represented Jordan throughout his career, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289369" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289369">said</a> Tuesday at Sports Business Journal's 4se conference in New York City that his former client could've won 15 titles had he "cherry-picked what teams he wanted to be on and two other superstars." The comments came during a discussion about the NBA GOAT debate.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Paul believes that because of how good of a situation Jordan had in Chicago, where he won all six of his championships, there was no need for him to leave the Bulls.</p><p>"When you look at that, right, again the cherry-pick, I've discussed that. The two other superstars - Michael never had to leave," Paul said. "Michael's never been the underdog in any Finals. Not one time. Michael never had a 24-hour, 365 news cycle. He never had shows built strictly to criticize him. People made millions of dollars criticizing LeBron James. That was their entire job.</p><p>"And when you talk about the difficulty of it all, Michael played for Dean Smith, Michael played for Phil Jackson, and Michael had Jerry Krause. I'm the biggest Michael Jordan fan ever, love Michael Jordan, and I don't think Michael Jordan would've used the term 'cherry-pick,' so I'm not up here to discredit Michael Jordan. I think Michael Jordan transcended our game to a level that we all benefitted from."</p><p>James has won four championships during his 22-year NBA career, the latest of which came in 2020 with the Lakers.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 8: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Rich Paul talk after the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 8, 2024 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Rich Paul defends LeBron after MJ agent's 'cherry-picking' comments

Charles Barkley hopes to see John Haliburton, the father of Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburto...

<p>Charles Barkley hopes to see John Haliburton, the father of Indiana Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>, back in the stands soon.</p><p>Barkley called on NBA commissioner Adam Silver and the Pacers to allow the elder Haliburton to attend Games 3 and 4 of the Eastern Conference finals in Indiana, saying he's "paid his dues" for his exchange with Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.</p><p>"I want to reach out to Adam Silver tomorrow. Me and Draymond (Green) were talking, it's time to let Mr. Haliburton back in the building," Barkley said Wednesday on <a href="https://x.com/NBAonTNT/status/1925397872373113252">TNT</a> following the Pacers' 138-135 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289563" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289563">comeback win</a> over the New York Knicks. "Adam, I'm asking you - hey, my man paid his dues. He did something really, really stupid, but he's been punished. And I'm asking you and the Indiana Pacers to let Mr. Haliburton back in the building for Game 3 and 4.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Listen, he paid his dues. It shouldn't be indefinite. He's been punished enough, he will never do anything that stupid again."</p><p>The Pacers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3278930" href="https://thescore.com/news/3278930">announced</a> earlier in May that John wouldn't attend games for the foreseeable future after he was involved in an on-court confrontation with Antetokounmpo following Indiana's series-clinching win over the Bucks. John <a href="https://x.com/PapaHaliburton/status/1917435463045898241">issued</a> an apology on X after the incident, acknowledging that it "was not a good reflection on our sport or my son."</p><p>Tyrese led the way for the Pacers in Game 1 against the Knicks with 31 points and 11 assists.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 7: John Haliburton looks on before the game during the semifinals of the In-Season Tournament on December 7, 2023 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE

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Barkley asks Silver, Pacers to allow Haliburton's dad back at games

The Dallas Stars and Carolina Hurricanes appear to be the fan favorites in this year's NHL confer...

<p>The Dallas Stars and Carolina Hurricanes appear to be the fan favorites in this year's NHL conference finals. </p><p>A map created by <a href="http://www.betonline.ag/">BetOnline.ag</a> based on geotagged X data gathered since the matchups were set Sunday, including over 90,000 tweets, shows a majority of fans across the United States are rooting for either the Stars or Hurricanes to win their series.</p><p>The Stars are favored in 24 states and one Canadian province, followed closely by the Hurricanes with 23 states and one province. The Edmonton Oilers are the most popular pick in eight provinces and one state, while only one state is backing the reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786747/2025_stanely_cup_conference_finals.jpg?ts=1747855810" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786747/2025_stanely_cup_conference_finals.jpg?ts=1747855810 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786747/2025_stanely_cup_conference_finals.jpg?ts=1747855810 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786747/2025_stanely_cup_conference_finals.jpg?ts=1747855810 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786747/2025_stanely_cup_conference_finals.jpg?ts=1747855810 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786747/2025_stanely_cup_conference_finals.jpg?ts=1747855810 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>The Panthers defeated the Hurricanes 5-2 on Tuesday to win Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final. Game 1 of the Western Conference Final is set for Wednesday night in Dallas.</p>

RALEIGH, NC - MAY 20: A general view of the warm-up puck prior to Game One of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Florida Panthers at Lenovo Center on May 20, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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X map shows NHL fans split between Stars, Hurricanes in conference finals

Michael Jordan is one of the most decorated players in NBA history with six championships, but hi...

<p>Michael Jordan is one of the most decorated players in NBA history with six championships, but his former agent believes he could've won several more under the right circumstances. </p><p>David Falk, who represented Jordan for his entire career, made the bold claim while weighing in on the NBA GOAT debate at Sports Business Journal's 4se conference in New York City on Tuesday. </p><p>Falk said that either Kareem Abdul-Jabbar or Kobe Bryant is second behind Jordan in his personal GOAT rankings, while LeBron James is "probably" in his top 10.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I really like LeBron," Falk said, according to <a href="https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/05/20/nba-super-agent-david-falks-advice-for-sports-execs-feel-the-future/">Sports Business Journal's Rob Schaefer</a>. "But I think if Jordan had cherry-picked what teams he wanted to be on and two other superstars, he would've won 15 championships."</p><p>Jordan won all six of his championships as a member of the Chicago Bulls, leading the team to a three-peat from 1991-93 and again from 1996-98. He then spent two seasons with the Washington Wizards before retiring from the NBA in 2003.</p><p>James, who recently completed his 22nd NBA season, has won four titles with three different teams. </p>

LOS ANGELES - 1992: Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls, Agent David Falk and Charles Barkley of the Philadelphia 76ers pose for a photo in 1992 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER:User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1992 NBAE

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Agent David Falk: MJ could've won 15 titles if he 'cherry-picked' his teams

Joe Burrow turned down the opportunity to be featured in the first season of Netflix's "Quarterba...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a> turned down the opportunity to be featured in the first season of Netflix's "Quarterback," but thanks to some convincing from Peyton Manning, he'll star in the second season of the documentary series.</p><p>The Cincinnati Bengals quarterback explained his change of mind Tuesday at organized team activities, joking that the show's producers "caught me on the right day."</p><p>"I think a big part was Peyton being involved in it too," Burrow said, via <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6qH1x6k5b8">Cincinnati Bengals Talk</a>. "I have a lot of respect for him, obviously. What he did, does, is as a person, so if that guy reaches out to you and asks you to do something, then most of the time I'm gonna say, 'Yeah.'"</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Burrow explained that Manning, one of the executive producers, assured him that participating in the series would be a positive experience.</p><p>"Just that only positive things could come out of it," Burrow said. "He's gonna protect me, protect our team, protect our organization. I have trust in him for saying that and trust that he's gonna do that. I probably wouldn't have done it if he wasn't involved, but I have a lot of trust and faith in him to not do anything that would hurt me or the team."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71572" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71572">Jared Goff</a> of the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons passer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> will also be featured in the second season of "Quarterback," which was filmed during the 2024 NFL campaign. It's scheduled to release in July.</p>

CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 28: Joe Burrow (9) of the Cincinnati Bengals stands on the field during the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio on Saturday, December 28, 2024.

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Burrow: Manning a 'big part' of why I joined 'Quarterback' docuseries

A majority of Americans are throwing their support behind the Indiana Pacers in this year's NBA c...

<p>A majority of Americans are throwing their support behind the Indiana Pacers in this year's NBA conference finals, according to new X data.</p><p>A map created by <a href="http://www.betonline.ag/">BetOnline.ag</a> based on over 130,000 geotagged tweets sent out since the conference finals matchups were set Sunday shows the Pacers are favored in 20 states across the U.S. </p><p>The Minnesota Timberwolves are the second-most-popular team to root for with 14 states, followed by the Oklahoma City Thunder with 10 states and the New York Knicks with six states.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786588/2025_NBA_conf_finals_rooting_map.jpg?ts=1747769275" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786588/2025_NBA_conf_finals_rooting_map.jpg?ts=1747769275 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786588/2025_NBA_conf_finals_rooting_map.jpg?ts=1747769275 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786588/2025_NBA_conf_finals_rooting_map.jpg?ts=1747769275 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786588/2025_NBA_conf_finals_rooting_map.jpg?ts=1747769275 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786588/2025_NBA_conf_finals_rooting_map.jpg?ts=1747769275 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>This is the second consecutive season that the Pacers have advanced to the Eastern Conference finals. Game 1 of their series against the Knicks is set for Wednesday, while the Timberwolves and Thunder will kick off their series Tuesday night.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN- APRIL 19: An Indiana Pacers' fan holds a towel during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks during Round One Game One of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 19, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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X map shows Pacers are most popular conference finals team to root for

LeBron James understands that not all NBA fans are pleased with how the league has changed over t...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> understands that not all NBA fans are pleased with how the league has changed over the years. </p><p>The Los Angeles Lakers star delivered a message to frustrated fans on the latest episode of his "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LW7bNrFmck4">Mind the Game</a>" podcast with Hall of Famer Steve Nash, letting them know he hears their complaints and empathizes with them.</p><p>"Fans, I want you guys to know that we're listening," James said. "We hear you guys. We're listening. We always want to make sure that the game of basketball is viewed from y'all point of view and y'all love the product.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We're always trying to figure out a way to get better, but the game changes. The conversation on, you know, 'I wish the game was like this compared to this,' that's too far to even be thinking about those types of things. It's impossible, everything changes."</p><p>James recently wrapped up his 22nd year in the NBA and seventh season with the Lakers. The 40-year-old averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game while helping L.A. finish third in the Western Conference at 50-32.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - APRIL 27: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round 1 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 27, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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LeBron acknowledges fans' frustrations with NBA: 'We hear you'

Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter has made a strong first impression on new teammate Trev...

<p>Jacksonville Jaguars rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209912" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209912">Travis Hunter</a> has made a strong first impression on new teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161653" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161653">Trevor Lawrence</a>. </p><p>When asked about his early thoughts on Hunter at the Jaguars' first organized team activity Monday, Lawrence likened the former Colorado two-way star to a child with boundless energy. </p><p>"Got a lot of juice. Like, he can run all day," Lawrence <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72r6YcWrUmk">said</a> of Hunter. "A lot of energy, I love it. Good energy. Always dapping guys up, just bringing juice every day. And like I said, high motor, can just go.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's like a kid, just runs around all day. He doesn't get tired, it seems like."</p><p>The Jaguars selected Hunter with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft after trading up with the Cleveland Browns from No. 5. The team started Hunter at wide receiver but has also given him some reps on the defensive side of the ball.</p><p>Hunter had 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns at Colorado last season and added 35 tackles, four interceptions, and 11 defended passes at cornerback.</p>

JACKSONVILLE, FL - MAY 19: Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) runs with a ball during the Jacksonville Jaguars OTA on May 19, 2025 at Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fl.

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Jaguars' Lawrence: Hunter like a kid who 'just runs around all day'

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