Frances Tiafoe has come close to breaking through at Flushing Meadows.  He went the distance with...

<p>Frances Tiafoe has come close to breaking through at Flushing Meadows.</p><p>He went the distance with Carlos Alcaraz at the 2022 US Open in a gut-wrenching semifinal defeat that lasted 4 hours and 19 minutes.</p><p>A year later, the Maryland native fell in the quarterfinals to Ben Shelton, who saved a set point in a decisive third-set tiebreaker.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>But the loss to Taylor Fritz in the 2024 semifinals might haunt Tiafoe most. With the former World No. 10 just two games away from his maiden Grand Slam final, things began to unravel.</p><p>Trailing 5-4 in the fourth set and up 40-15 on his serve, Tiafoe committed two straight double faults followed by a pair of unforced errors to hand Fritz the break.</p><p>Struggling with cramps, Tiafoe managed to win just one more game the rest of the way. The 27-year-old admitted post-match that he got ahead of himself, acknowledging that nerves took over as the finish line neared.</p><p>"That still stings, man. Those ones stick with you," Tiafoe told theScore in July at the National Bank Open in Toronto. "I was definitely in the driver's seat, no question. You can argue I could've got up outta there. But again, it's fuel, man. It's sports, man.</p><p>"Not everything is how you want it to go. Being great is how you respond to tough, adverse moments. It teaches you a lot about yourself. So when I get back there and get back in that position, hopefully I'm third-time lucky. ... I'm gonna give everything I got once New York comes."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/cropped_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798301/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170620219.jpg?ts=1755778738 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Tiafoe has spent the last year building toward another shot at his home Slam.</p><p>He's had a full season working alongside David Witt, who joined the team in July 2024 after a brief five-month coaching stint with Maria Sakkari.</p><p>Tiafoe had a rocky early hard-court season before scoring surprising success on clay, where he owns a sub-.500 career record. He reached the finals on home soil in Houston, made his first Round of 16 appearance at the Masters 1000 tournament in Madrid, and advanced to his maiden French Open quarterfinals.</p><p>Alongside compatriot Tommy Paul, Tiafoe became the first American man to make the last eight at Roland Garros since Andre Agassi in 2003.</p><p>Tiafoe has found a comfort zone with Witt's similar laid-back demeanor. The 2022 WTA Coach of the Year will share stories from his previous partnerships with Venus Williams and Jessica Pegula, offering Tiafoe alternate perspectives on the game.</p><p>Playing with aggression is one of the biggest things Witt preaches to Tiafoe. That mindset shift was evident during the clay-court season, as the three-time ATP titlist looked more assertive and eager to impose his will on opponents.</p><p>Tiafoe ranked third in second-serve points won (64%), sixth in aces (37), seventh in winners (188), and eighth in net points won (76%) during this year's French Open.</p><p>His return numbers improved, too, as he positioned himself closer to the baseline and frequently took the ball early in an attempt to seize control of rallies.</p><p>Tiafoe sits ninth in second-serve return points won (739), 15th in break points converted (124), and 19th in return games won (22.71%) this season.</p><p>"It's still obviously up and down, but I think it's understanding my game better and better every year," Tiafoe said. "I'm figuring out how to get myself going and understanding that when I'm aggressive and putting pressure on guys, I'm the most dangerous."</p><p>Tiafoe added, "(Witt's) just trying to get me to commit to playing the right way. Sometimes, I still get into this passive mindset and kind of just put balls in play and not hurt guys. I think sometimes I get vulnerable in those moments."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/cropped_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w220xh124_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w320xh180_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w640xh360_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w768xh432_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798303/w1080xh607_IMG_9026.jpg?ts=1755779169 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Tiafoe, left, shares a laugh with Witt during a recent practice session in Toronto. <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chicco Nacion/theScore</span></figcaption></figure><p>Tiafoe has shown more consistency during the North American summer hard-court swing, winning two matches in each of his US Open tuneup events. Although he has stumbled at times to produce a series of solid results, Tiafoe boasts deep major runs and several big wins.</p><p>Notably, Tiafoe has beaten both Jannik Sinner and Alcaraz. His last two matches against Alcaraz went five sets, with the Spaniard needing to overcome a two-set-to-one deficit in their latest encounter at Wimbledon last year.</p><p>While Tiafoe isn't short on self-belief whenever he lines up across the net, he said he knows he has to raise his baseline level of performance when he takes on Sinner and Alcaraz.</p><p>"For me, it's just trying to get my average standard higher," Tiafoe said. "I'm such a big-match player. ... It's easy to play Alcaraz at Center Court of Wimbledon. It's easy to play Alcaraz at semis of the US Open.</p><p>"If you're not gonna bring your best stuff there, you don't deserve it. Played Sinner in the final of Cincinnati (last year). We also played a good match. It's just about getting the standard higher. It gives me a ton of confidence to know I can beat those guys. It's a matter of getting there."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/cropped_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w220xh124_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w320xh180_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w640xh360_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w768xh432_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798306/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2160766948.jpg?ts=1755779576 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Shi Tang / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Tiafoe's US Open campaign begins against Yoshihito Nishioka and his path to an elusive major crown will likely require conquering both Sinner and Alcaraz.</p><p>The two young superstars are beginning to author their own era of dominance as the Big Three's run atop the sport nears its end.</p><p>Sinner and Alcaraz have hoisted eight of the last nine Grand Slam trophies, including back-to-back major finals against one another.</p><p>Their epic 5-hour, 29-minute championship match at this year's French Open gave Tiafoe another reminder of the work still needed to keep pace with the duo.</p><p>"They're the pinnacle of the sport right now," Tiafoe said of Sinner and Alcaraz. "If you want to win a Slam - which I do. It's the only thing I really want to do, to be honest with you. I don't really care about the titles I win. ... I just want to win a Slam before I call it a career. You gotta go through them.</p><p>"That gives you a ton of motivation to want to keep getting better. Keep adding things to your game. I think I'm still capable of doing so and beating those guys when it counts in the biggest matches in the world."</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Frances Tiafoe of the United States returns a shot against Taylor Fritz of the United States during their Men's Singles Semifinal match on Day Twelve of the 2024 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 06, 2024 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City.

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'Being great is how you respond': Tiafoe fueled by US Open semifinal loss

Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese returned to the starting lineup for Tuesday's 94-88 defeat agains...

<p>Chicago Sky forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121629" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121629">Angel Reese</a> returned to the starting lineup for Tuesday's 94-88 defeat against the Seattle Storm.</p><p>Reese had missed the last seven games due to a back injury. She tallied 19 points, seven boards, four assists, and one block in 26 minutes of action, but the Sky's comeback bid fell short. </p><p>Reese was on a minutes restriction in her first appearance since July 29.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Chicago went 1-6 with the two-time All-Star out of the lineup.</p><p>Reese was building on her solid rookie campaign prior to being sidelined, averaging 14.2 points, 12.6 boards, 3.7 assists, and 1.5 steals across 23 appearances this season.</p><p>Her 17 doubles-doubles are tied for the league lead with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18102" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18102">Alyssa Thomas</a>.</p><p>The Sky are scoring 6.9 more points per 100 possessions with Reese on the floor this season.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 29: Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky handles the ball against the Washington Mystics at Carefirst Arena on July 29, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Reese scores 19 in return as Sky's comeback vs. Storm falls short

The Indiana Pacers signed head coach Rick Carlisle to a multi-year contract extension, the team a...

<p>The Indiana Pacers signed head coach Rick Carlisle to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>Carlisle rejoined the Pacers for a second head coaching stint in June 2021. He's guided the club to a 157-171 record over the last four seasons, including playoff appearances in each of the previous two campaigns.</p><p>Indiana reached the East final in 2023-24 and its first Finals in 25 years last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Since his return to the Pacers in 2021, coach Carlisle has been integral to our success, which includes leading us to consecutive Eastern Conference finals appearances and our first NBA Finals appearance in 25 years," Pacers president of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard said in a statement.</p><p>Pritchard added, "We are thrilled to have him continue leading our team and representing our organization well into the future."</p><p>Carlisle went 181-147 during his previous go-around with the Pacers, with the team going as far as the conference finals in 2003-04.</p><p>The 65-year-old trails only Slick Leonard on the franchise's all-time wins list.</p><p>Carlisle's other head coaching stops include the Detroit Pistons and Dallas Mavericks. He won Coach of the Year honors in 2002 and guided the Mavericks to their lone NBA title in 2011.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - JUNE 08: Head coach Rick Carlisle of the Indiana Pacers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Two of the 2025 NBA Finals at Paycom Center on June 08, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Pacers sign Carlisle to multi-year contract extension

There's an undeniable buzz around the US Open's revamped mixed doubles event.  Several of the wor...

<p>There's an undeniable buzz around the US Open's revamped mixed doubles event.</p><p>Several of the world's top men's and women's singles players are among the 16 pairings that will battle for a major title and $1-million prize. Eight teams received a direct entry into the draw based on their combined singles ranking, while the other eight duos were granted wild cards.</p><p>Frances Tiafoe is among the stars who will take part in the competition, which is slated for Aug. 19-20 at Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium during US Open Fan Week.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tiafoe is teaming up with good friend Madison Keys. He expressed respect for the specialists who usually make up the bracket, but he believes the participation of so many notable singles players will have a "monumental" impact on the profile of mixed doubles tennis.</p><p>"We're gonna put asses in the seats, man," Tiafoe told theScore. "The fans want to watch people they know and who they see play in singles, even though we don't play doubles as great as the doubles guys. We gotta give those doubles guys respect. They play quality doubles because that's what they do. Same thing with us in singles. ...</p><p>"You're going to be glued watching every match because you've just got names on names. So if I'm a regular average tennis fan, I get to see (Carlos) Alcaraz before the (singles) tournament. I get to see (Jannik) Sinner ... (Taylor) Fritz, (Elena) Rybakina, (Jessica) Pegula. It's gonna be sick."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/cropped_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w220xh124_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w320xh180_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w640xh360_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w768xh432_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797428/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1454990934.jpg?ts=1755104561 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Cheung / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Moving the mixed doubles competition to the first week of the tournament rather than its usual second week appealed to many singles players, including Holger Rune, who'll play alongside Wimbledon runner-up Amanda Anisimova.</p><p>"It's usually where you need more rest than playing," Rune said. "I think it's a fun idea to do it in the preparation week."</p><p>Competitors who advance to the semifinals and final will get at least four days of rest before singles play starts in Flushing Meadows. The mixed doubles tournament won't be as physically taxing, either. Every match leading up to the final will be a best-of-three sets played to four games with no-ad scoring, tiebreakers at four-all, and a 10-point match tiebreaker instead of a third set. The championship matchup will consist of sets maxing out at six games and tiebreakers at six-all, but the rest of the format will stay the same.</p><p>Ben Shelton was unsure if he'd throw his hat in the ring given all his pre-tournament responsibilities. But the rising star was ultimately drawn in by all the marquee singles players who'd committed.</p><p>Shelton will reunite with World No. 1 doubles player Taylor Townsend. The all-American tandem initially joined forces at the 2023 US Open, making a run to the mixed doubles semifinals in their original format.</p><p>"She's the best female doubles player in the world. She's the best mixed doubles player in the world, in my opinion," Shelton said. "I was lucky to get her as a partner. I don't know if anyone else talked to her. She told me that the only person she would play with is me, and I told her that the only person I would play with is her."</p><p>Alex de Minaur lobbied for one of two remaining wild cards after the initial 14 mixed doubles teams were revealed, but was ultimately unsuccessful in his bid to get into the bracket.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Katie and I would like to ask for a WC pretty pretty please 🙏😢 <a href="https://t.co/wLwPfKQjAa">https://t.co/wLwPfKQjAa</a></p>— Alex de Minaur (@alexdeminaur) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexdeminaur/status/1950367262608941170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The five-time major quarterfinalist was hoping to have the rare opportunity of playing alongside his fianceé, Katie Boulter.</p><p>The Hopman Cup, United Cup, and Summer Olympics are the only events outside of the Grand Slams that have a mixed doubles component. However, De Minaur and Boulter can't team up in any of those competitions because they hail from different countries.</p><p>In their lone tournament as a mixed doubles pair at Wimbledon in 2023, they received a wild card and defeated Aussie duo John Peers and Storm Hunter in their opening match before falling in the second round.</p><p>"One of the most enjoyable moments I've had on a tennis court was playing Wimbledon mixed doubles with her. It was pretty damn cool," De Minaur said. "So I would love to go back and play again. And to play such an exciting event with the world's best tennis players would be pretty cool."</p><p>Not every team has an extensive history. Two-time French Open finalist Casper Ruud was pleasantly surprised when Iga Swiatek reached out to see if he'd be interested in partnering up.</p><p>They were on opposite sides of a memorable mixed doubles tilt at the United Cup in December. With Ruud and Norway leading 4-3 in the 10-point match tiebreaker, Swiatek leveled the score for Poland with a wicked cross-court forehand winner to cap an extended rally.</p><p>The six-time Slam winner's heroics were pivotal as Poland eventually completed the comeback.</p><p>When Swiatek and Ruud met at the net for a postmatch handshake, she expressed admiration for his forehand.</p><p>"There's this rally … in the match tiebreaker where we're rallying forehands cross court and she ends up beating me, which shows how good she is from the baseline," Ruud recalls. "I think from there it was just a really fun match and maybe she remembered that. ... I was happy to say yes."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEN3qQdoqt-/?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/reel/DEN3qQdoqt-/?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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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>The ATP stars' excitement for the new-look US Open mixed doubles championships is evident. But make no mistake: many of them are aiming to be the last team standing.</p><p>Taylor Fritz captured the Eisenhower Cup - a mixed doubles exhibition event - with Elena Rybakina at Indian Wells in March and is intent on another win.</p><p>"I think everyone's going to be really serious, to be honest," Fritz said.</p><p>He added, "We're not showing up there to mess around. I can't speak for everyone, but I know Elena and myself are definitely there to win."</p><p>Tiafoe's got his eyes on the cash prize and doesn't want to give his opponents any bulletin-board material.</p><p>"(Keys and I) need to get our shit together," Tiafoe said. "We need to figure out this mixed (doubles), man. I'm trying to get to the money, and so we've been trash-talking ourselves.</p><p>"I think everyone is gonna try hard. There's a lot of money being moved around for this thing. This is serious. I'm not talking shit ... but I definitely want to get paid for sure."</p>

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA - SEPTEMBER 24: Ben Shelton of Team World and Frances Tiafoe of Team World react to match point in their doubles match after defeating Andrey Rublev of Team Europe and Hubert Hurkacz of Team Europe to win the Laver Cup for Team World during day three of the Laver Cup at Rogers Arena on September 24, 2023 in Vancouver, British Columbia.

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ATP stars hope to 'put asses in seats' at new-look US Open mixed doubles

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic sustained a right knee contusion Saturday in the second ...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> sustained a right knee contusion Saturday in the second half of Slovenia's EuroBasket exhibition game against Latvia, sources told NBA insider <a href="https://x.com/TheSteinLine/status/1956794051925029045">Marc Stein</a>.</p><p>Slovenia's basketball federation later <a href="https://x.com/kzs_si/status/1957073269900616071">stated</a> that Doncic will be back for Monday's team practice, suggesting the ailment is minor.</p><p>Doncic collided awkwardly with a teammate and immediately grabbed his right knee, but was able to walk to the locker room under his own power.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here was the play <a href="https://t.co/E4vZRmmKfZ">pic.twitter.com/E4vZRmmKfZ</a></p>— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanWoikeSports/status/1956761173317292539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Doncic is among a handful of NBA stars who have committed to playing for their countries at EuroBasket, which runs Aug. 27-Sept. 14.</p><p>Los Angeles recently signed Doncic to a three-year, $165-million contract extension that includes a player option for the 2028-29 campaign.</p><p>The five-time All-Star averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.6 steals across 28 appearances for the Lakers last season.</p>

LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA - AUGUST 8: Luka Doncic of Slovenia reacts during the international basketball friendly match between Slovenia and Germany at Dvorana Stozice, on August 8, 2025 in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

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Luka to be back at practice after injury scare in EuroBasket exhibition

The Brooklyn Nets acquired forward Haywood Highsmith and a 2032 second-round draft pick from the ...

<p>The Brooklyn Nets acquired forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/83958" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/83958">Haywood Highsmith</a> and a 2032 second-round draft pick from the Miami Heat in exchange for a 2026 second-rounder that's protected from the 31st overall pick to the 55th selection, the Nets announced Friday.</p><p>Highsmith spent the last four seasons with the Heat, averaging 5.5 points and shooting 37.5% from deep across 213 appearances, including 80 starts. The 6-foot-7 forward developed into a solid defender under Miami head coach Erik Spoelstra.</p><p>Highsmith recently underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. He's expected to miss 8-10 weeks, which could put him in danger of missing the Nets' season opener.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Highsmith is entering the final season of a two-year, $10.8-million contract. The move puts the Heat $4 million below the luxury tax and $9.5 million under the first-apron hard cap, according to <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1956432251899482185">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.</p><p>Meanwhile, Brooklyn is now $22 million under the salary cap and has until Oct. 21 to reach 90% of the salary cap, adds <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1956431679498661921">Marks</a>.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 18: Haywood Highsmith #24 of the Miami Heat reacts after their 123-114 win over the Atlanta Hawks in overtime during an NBA play-in tournament game on April 18, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Nets acquire Haywood Highsmith from Heat

The Milwaukee Bucks agreed to a one-year contract with free-agent forward Amir Coffey, sources to...

<p>The Milwaukee Bucks agreed to a one-year contract with free-agent forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52826" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52826">Amir Coffey</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1956079795638345949">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The two sides came to terms on a training-camp deal, according to T<a href="https://x.com/eric_nehm/status/1956082782658289978">he Athletic's Eric Nehm</a>.</p><p>Coffey spent his first six NBA seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he carved out a key bench role, as well as started 67 games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 28-year-old averaged a career-high 9.7 points and shot 40.9% from beyond the arc across 72 appearances last season.</p><p>Milwaukee led the NBA in 3-point percentage (38.7%) and ranked eighth in threes per game (14.2) during the 2024-25 campaign.</p><p>Coffey gives the Bucks an experienced forward behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37799">Kyle Kuzma</a> who can also slot in at the two.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CA - MARCH 21: Amir Coffey #7 of the LA Clippers looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 21, 2025 at Intuit Dome 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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Report: Bucks sign Amir Coffey to 1-year deal

Kiki Iriafen knew the Washington Mystics could be a playoff team from the very beginning.  The ro...

<p>Kiki Iriafen knew the Washington Mystics could be a playoff team from the very beginning.</p><p>The rookie forward had a sense of their potential based on the collective mentality they brought into the campaign.</p><p>"We've always believed in ourselves, regardless of what (preseason) rankings said, what other people said," Iriafen told reporters, including theScore, during media day at WNBA All-Star Weekend.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We had such a belief in our core. Everybody was super selfless and bought into the mission that our coach had for us. So I don't think we're surprised at all with the way that we're playing, and we'll only get better in the second half of the season."</p><p>Washington has nearly exceeded its win total from a year ago. The team sits one game back<strong> </strong>of the WNBA's eighth and final playoff spot entering Friday's showdown against the league-leading Minnesota Lynx.</p><p>The Mystics selected Sonia Citron and Iriafen with the third and fourth overall picks, respectively, in this year's WNBA draft. Both players have served as major catalysts for the franchise's quick turnaround.</p><p>Citron has established herself as an effective 3-and-D guard, knocking down 36.9% of her attempts from deep and routinely taking on the opposition's top perimeter threats. She plays with a cool, calm demeanor and never seems to be frazzled by the moment. Whether it's making a timely pass or backdoor cut, Citron consistently does a great job of reading and reacting to the defense.</p><p>Meanwhile, Iriafen's relentless motor has made her a handful on the glass. The 6-foot-3 forward ranks fourth in total boards (238) and broke the Mystics' rookie record for double-doubles in a season. Iriafen's rim-running, face-up jumper, and driving ability give Washington's offense more options.</p><p>Citron and Iriafen were rewarded for their strong first half, becoming just the second pair of rookie teammates in league history to be selected as All-Stars.</p><p>"It's been amazing going through this with Soni," Iriafen said. "She's like a built-in sister. Built-in best friend. And we truly care about each other. Whenever she's successful, I feel like I'm successful.</p><p>"So just doing this whole thing together, I'm not nervous because I'm like, 'If anything goes wrong, I have Soni right next to me.' So I'm excited to be on this journey with her."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/cropped_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NBA Photos / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Citron and Iriafen have grown close since joining the Mystics organization last April. They sit next to each other on team flights, go out for food on road trips, and make TikTok videos together.</p><p>Washington's guard-post tandem have even bonded through their shared love for Afrobeats. Citron has West African roots through her mother, while Iriafen is of Nigerian descent.</p><p>Iriafen believes all of the time they've spent together outside of basketball has improved their connection on the court.</p><p>"Soni's just super smart," Iriafen said. "Sometimes she sees things that I don't even see. She's (pointing with her eyes) and I'm like, 'What?' And she's like, 'Go backdoor!' But she's just very selfless, and I think our chemistry has gotten better just hanging out off the court."</p><p>Georgia Amoore, the No. 6 overall pick in this year's WNBA draft, is also part of the tight-knit group of Mystics rookies. However, the 5-foot-6 point guard has yet to suit up after sustaining a season-ending ACL injury less than a week into training camp.</p><p>It was a difficult way to start her career, but Amoore takes solace in the support she's received from Citron and Iriafen.</p><p>"They've been the best for me in my rehab process," Amoore said. "They give me a lot of energy. We got drafted (together) and immediately clicked. From there, it's just been wonderful.</p><p>"I'm very grateful because a situation like that is very rare to come by. To have such a young core that actually gets along and enjoys each other like that."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/cropped_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stephen Gosling / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Citron and Iriafen say Amoore has been equally helpful as they navigate their own challenges during their first WNBA campaign.</p><p>Iriafen described Amoore as the team's "Energizer Bunny," providing constant encouragement throughout games. Meanwhile, Citron appreciates being able to tap into Amoore's perspective from the bench.</p><p>"She's still very present with our team," Citron said. "Always there at practice. Always there at games. ... I'll always ask her what she sees during a game and what I can be doing better. But she's definitely still very much part of the team. We don't feel like she's missing a beat."</p><p>Amoore recently served as a coach at the third annual Basketball Without Borders Global women's camp hosted by the NBA, WNBA, and FIBA as part of WNBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis.</p><p>You could see the kind of contributions her teammates credited whenever Amoore pulled a player aside for a quick word, gave directions from the sidelines, or simply cheered her players on.</p><p>She said coaching 40 of the top high school-age prospects from outside the United States was a "good opportunity" to step back and see the game through a different lens. The Aussie floor general has approached her first year as a pro in the same manner, observing Iriafen and Citron's playing styles and envisioning how she'll fit alongside the dynamic duo.</p><p>"I've been watching a lot of Kiki. It's always good when you have a post-guard connection like that," Amoore said. "I've played against Sonia for three years (in college), so I know what she likes. I know she's a great cutter. I know that she just goes with the flow and attacks when needed.</p><p>"I'm super excited to be able to eventually play with them. ... It's just a point guard's job to figure it out and be an addition rather than just being out there with them. To elevate each other."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/cropped_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ethan Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>All three rookies credit first-year head coach Sydney Johnson for making their transition to the WNBA as smooth as possible.</p><p>Johnson's attention to detail and passion for the game reminds Amoore of her college coach, Kenny Brooks. The Kentucky product finds it easy to communicate with Johnson and appreciates the way he keeps her engaged as she continues to rehab.</p><p>Iriafen admires the way Johnson prioritizes their mental health. He's gotten to know each of his players on a personal basis and regularly checks in to make sure they're OK.</p><p>Johnson has taught Citron that each win and loss isn't the be-all and end-all that it might've been in college.</p><p>The young Mystics have adopted that mindset, and it's helped them stay grounded in their pursuit of a postseason berth and success beyond this year.</p><p>"He's a coach that truly never gets too high or too low. I really love that about him just because you don't really know what's going on as a rookie. ... He's really the one that we follow when we have a bad loss or great win," Citron said. "I think it really helps just seeing him be so level-headed and calm."</p>

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Iriafen, Citron fast-tracking Mystics' playoff push

The Boston Celtics signed head coach Joe Mazzulla to a multi-year contract extension, the team an...

<p>The Boston Celtics signed head coach Joe Mazzulla to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Friday.</p><p>"We are very excited that Joe has agreed to extend with the Celtics," Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens said in a statement. "He understands the job and has a passion for the Celtics that is only rivaled by our most die-hard fans."</p><p>Mazzulla took over for Ime Udoka in September 2022 on an interim basis after the latter was suspended for the entire campaign for engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a Celtics female employee.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Mazzulla was named the team's permanent head coach in February 2023 after guiding the Celtics to an NBA-leading 42-17 mark at the All-Star break.</p><p>The 37-year-old led the Celtics to their record-breaking 18th NBA title during the 2023-24 campaign. He holds a 182-64 record over three seasons at the helm and has posted back-to-back 60-win campaigns.</p><p>"This is truly a blessing," Mazzulla said in a statement. "I would not be here without my faith, my wife, and my children. We are thankful for the partnership with our ownership groups, Brad (Stevens') mentorship, and the support of our staff.</p><p>"Most importantly, I am grateful for the players I have been able to coach the past three seasons. I look forward to competing for the Celtics and the city of Boston."</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 12: Head coach Joe Mazzulla of the Boston Celtics against the New York Knicks during the first half in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 12, 2025 in New York City.

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Celtics sign Mazzulla to multi-year extension

The Washington Mystics traded forward Aaliyah Edwards to the Connecticut Sun for guard Jacy Sheld...

<p>The Washington Mystics traded forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121623" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121623">Aaliyah Edwards</a> to the Connecticut Sun for guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121636" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121636">Jacy Sheldon</a> and a 2026 first-round swap right, the teams announced Thursday.</p><p>Washington now has the option to swap the Minnesota Lynx's 2026 first-rounder for the New York Liberty's first-round pick in the same draft.</p><p>"We are excited to welcome Jacy to the Mystics and think her skill set, energy, and team-first approach will be a great fit for us," Mystics general manager Jamila Wideman said in a statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"She is a competitor and leads through the example of her work ethic. She has built on her solid rookie campaign and demonstrated an ability to shoot the ball and read the game on both ends of the court."</p><p>Washington drafted Edwards sixth overall a year ago. The UConn product showed promise during her rookie campaign, averaging 7.6 points and 5.6 boards across 34 appearances.</p><p>However, Edwards was sidelined earlier this season with a back injury and fell behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/102670" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/102670">Shakira Austin</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/171756" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/171756">Kiki Iriafen</a> in the Mystics' crowded post rotation.</p><p>"Bringing Aaliyah to the Connecticut Sun is more than just a roster move; it's a statement about where we're headed as a franchise," Sun general manager Morgan Tuck said in a statement. "Aaliyah is a transformational talent with the mindset and drive that aligns with our vision of building a championship culture."</p><p>Sheldon gives the Mystics another ball-handler after they traded away All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27663" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27663">Brittney Sykes</a> on Tuesday. Sheldon, an Ohio State product, averaged 7.5 points over 28 appearances this season and ranks 10th in the WNBA with a 41.2% clip from deep.</p><p>Washington's outside shooting has been a glaring weakness; the team is last in the league with 5.3 threes per contest.</p>

COLLEGE PARK, GEORGIA - AUGUST 03: Aaliyah Edwards #24 of the Washington Mystics look on against Atlanta Dream during fourth quarter at Gateway Center Arena on August 3, 2025 in College Park, Georgia.

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Mystics trade Edwards to Sun for Sheldon, swap draft rights

Norman Powell is looking forward to a fresh start with the Miami Heat.  "They've talked about how...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12144" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12144">Norman Powell</a> is looking forward to a fresh start with the Miami Heat.</p><p>"They've talked about how much they've wanted me and liked my game throughout the years and they've tried to get me," Powell told <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article311573872.html">Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald</a>. "So to come to a place that values you and wants you here and understands what you bring to the table and wants you to be you, you can't be upset or mad about that at all."</p><p>Miami acquired Powell from the Los Angeles Clippers in July as part of a three-team trade that also involved the Utah Jazz.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The UCLA product said the news was shocking since he was coming off a career year and had been in talks with the Clippers' front office about a potential contract extension.</p><p>However, Powell believes the Heat are a perfect fit for him.</p><p>"They've welcomed me with open arms," Powell said. "I'm very excited about the opportunity. I'm very excited about the group that we have, I'm very excited about what they're building.</p><p>"I think the Heat culture and what this organization is about is me to a tee. It's exactly how I am. I'm built on competitiveness. I'm built on working. I'm built on the grind. That's my motto, understand the grind. That's my daily approach and I think I'm built for the Heat culture."</p><p>Powell spent parts of the last four campaigns with the Clippers. The 32-year-old finished fourth in Sixth Man of the Year voting twice during his tenure in L.A.</p><p>Powell averaged a career-high 21.8 points on 48.4% shooting last season in his first full year as a Clippers starter. His 41.8% clip from deep was the 17th-best mark in the Association.</p><p>Powell's set to become a free agent next summer.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CA - MAY 3: Norman Powell #24 of the LA Clippers dribbles the ball during Round One, Game Seven of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Denver Nuggets on May 3, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. 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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Powell: Heat understand what I bring to the table

A group led by Boston Celtics minority governor Steve Pagliuca has agreed to a deal with Connecti...

<p>A group led by Boston Celtics minority governor Steve Pagliuca has agreed to a deal with Connecticut Sun ownership to relocate the WNBA team to TD Garden as soon as 2027, sources told <a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/08/02/sports/connecticut-sun-move-boston-pagliuca/?s_campaign=bostonglobesports%3Asocialflow%3Atwitter">Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe</a>.</p><p>Pagliuca will reportedly pay a record $325 million for the franchise and contribute $100 million for a new practice facility in Boston.</p><p>The purchase would be the highest-ever sale price for a professional women's sports franchise.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Mohegan Tribe, which has owned the Sun since 2003, has been looking to sell the club, and the offer from Pagliuca's group sped up the process, adds Washburn.</p><p>All sales for a WNBA franchise must be approved by the league and its board of governors. The WNBA apparently prefers to have Boston serve as a possible expansion city in 2033, Washburn reports.</p><p>"As part of our most recent expansion process, in which three new franchises were awarded to Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia on June 30, 2025, nine additional cities also applied for WNBA teams and remain under active consideration," a WNBA statement <a href="https://x.com/GwashburnGlobe/status/1951708295791595570">said</a>, according to Washburn.</p><p>"No groups from Boston applied for a team at that time, and those other cities remain under consideration based on the extensive work they did as part of the expansion process and currently have priority over Boston."</p><p>If the league forces the Tribe to keep the team in-state, it'll abide by the WNBA's wishes, a source told Washburn. However, the Tribe has chosen to sell the Sun to Pagliuca's Boston-based group and has been determined to find the most lucrative offer, Washburn notes.</p><p>Connecticut has played a pair of sellout contests at TD Garden in the past two years.</p><p>The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire will join the WNBA next season. The league is also adding teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia in the coming years to bring the total number of teams to 18 in 2030.</p>

UNCASVILLE, CT - MAY 18: A general view of the Connecticut Sun logo before a WNBA game between the Washington Mystics and the Connecticut Sun on May 18, 2025, at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.

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Report: Sun relocating to Boston as soon as 2027 in record-breaking sale

The Sacramento Kings offered Jonathan Kuminga a three-year, $63-million contract as part of a pot...

<p>The Sacramento Kings offered <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> a three-year, $63-million contract as part of a potential sign-and-trade deal that would send <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53736" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53736">Malik Monk</a> and a lottery-protected 2030 first-rounder to the Golden State Warriors, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6529661/2025/08/01/jonathan-kuminga-warriors-nba-free-agency-qualifying-offer/">The Athletic's Sam Amick</a>.</p><p>The Warriors would get the least favorable 2031 first-round pick of the Kings or San Antonio Spurs if the draft selection didn't convey in 2030, Amick added.</p><p>Golden State reportedly wants the first-round pick to be unprotected, however, which has resulted in a stalemate.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Phoenix <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3317832" href="https://thescore.com/news/3317832">apparently</a> proposed a four-year deal worth close to $90 million to Kuminga. However, there's been no progress in talks between the Suns and Warriors as the latter has no interest in Phoenix's trade assets, Amick reports.</p><p>Kuminga, a restricted free agent, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3317832" href="https://thescore.com/news/3317832">reportedly</a> turned down a two-year, $45-million offer from the Warriors that featured a team option for the second season. The forward has until Oct. 1 to sign Golden State's one-year, $7.9-million qualifying offer.</p><p>Monk has been one of the NBA's top reserve players since joining the Kings, averaging 15.3 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.1 boards across 214 appearances over the last three seasons.</p><p>The Kentucky product was second to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69736" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69736">Naz Reid</a> in Sixth Man of the Year voting in 2023-24. The guard also had a fifth-place finish during the 2022-23 campaign.</p><p>Monk averaged a career-high 17.2 points on 43.9% shooting last season.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - APRIL 28: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings during Round 1 Game 6 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs on April 28, 2023 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE

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Report: Kings offering Monk in potential sign-and-trade for Kuminga

Restricted free-agent forward Jonathan Kuminga rejected a two-year, $45-million contract offer fr...

<p>Restricted free-agent forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> rejected a two-year, $45-million contract offer from the Golden State Warriors, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45859355/sources-jonathan-kuminga-declining-warriors-offer-terms">ESPN's Shams Charania and Anthony Slater</a>.</p><p>Kuminga reportedly passed on the new deal largely because the Warriors insisted on a team option for the second season and weren't willing to let him keep the no-trade clause that he'd be entitled to.</p><p>The former No. 7 overall pick and his agent have reportedly explored sign-and-trade scenarios, including significant negotiations with the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns for close to $90 million over four years. Phoenix made the most lucrative offer, Charania and Slater report.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, the Warriors aren't impressed by what the Kings and Suns are offering and have begun indicating they plan to cut off sign-and-trade talks entirely, sources told Charania and Slater.</p><p>The forward is reportedly enticed by playing elsewhere as Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has made it clear that he won't be playing big minutes consistently.</p><p>Kuminga has until Oct. 1 to sign Golden State's one-year, $7.9-million qualifying offer.</p><p>The 22-year-old is a product of the inaugural G League Ignite team. He's shown flashes of potential, but his playing time has fluctuated throughout his four-year tenure in the Bay Area.</p><p>He averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 boards, and 2.2 assists across 47 appearances last season.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 14: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors handles the ball during the first quarter of Game Five of the Western Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on May 14, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Report: Kuminga rejects 2-year, $45M offer from Warriors

Chris Paul had his heart set on the Los Angeles Clippers from the beginning of free agency.  "It ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> had his heart set on the Los Angeles Clippers from the beginning of free agency.</p><p>"It was a no-brainer," Paul <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1949967784567324893">told</a> reporters Monday at his introductory press conference.</p><p>Paul added, "The easiest decision in this ... is my family. Getting a chance to be around them. Be around a lot more. And get a chance to compete and play for a championship."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Paul first thought about a return to L.A. when he helped the Phoenix Suns clinch a Finals berth on the Clippers' home floor three years ago.</p><p>The 40-year-old says he remembers looking up at the arena box suites and seeing all the Clippers personnel that had become "extended family" over his six seasons with the franchise.</p><p>"I wanted to get back and play here by any means necessary," Paul <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1949973716093260098">said</a>. "I didn't even care what the team looked like. I just wanted to be home. Be here with the Clippers.</p><p>"I'm just so excited about the moves that the team has made this offseason. ... I'm even more excited about what I think we have a chance to do."</p><p>Paul spent the prime of his career with the Clippers, earning six NBA All-Defensive first-team nods, five All-Star selections, and making the All-NBA first team on three occasions. He remains the organization's all-time leader in assists and ranks second in steals.</p><p>Paul joins a formidable core featuring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52287" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52287">Ivica Zubac</a>.</p><p>The Clippers also added three-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a>, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45122">John Collins</a>, and veteran big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/300" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a>.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 12: Chris Paul #3 of the Los Angeles Clippers stands on the court during a game against the Washington Wizards at the Verizon Center on December 12, 2014 in Washington, DC.

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CP3: 'It was a no-brainer' to return to Clippers

Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink plans to make her season debut Tuesday against the Las V...

<p>Los Angeles Sparks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121610" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121610">Cameron Brink</a> plans to make her season debut Tuesday against the Las Vegas Aces, she told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://x.com/johnwdavis/status/1949922371420483787">John W. Davis of the LB Press-Telegram</a>.</p><p>Brink hasn't played since June 2024, when she sustained a torn ACL in the opening minutes of a loss to the Connecticut Sun.</p><p>"I'm just very excited. Very humbled by this experience. It's no easy thing to come back from," Brink said.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Los Angeles drafted Brink with the No. 2 overall pick in 2024. The Stanford product showed promise as a rookie, averaging 7.5 points, 5.3 boards, 1.7 assists, and 1.1 steals across 15 appearances last season.</p><p>Brink's 2.3 blocks per contest ranked second in the WNBA. The 6-foot-4 forward's return should help the Sparks' struggling interior defense.</p><p>Los Angeles has won five games in a row - including an upset of the New York Liberty - to put itself back in the playoff hunt.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 09: Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink (22) laughs after a play during the WNBA basketball game between the Las Vegas Aces and the Los Angeles Sparks on June 09, 2024, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA.

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Sparks' Brink to return from torn ACL vs. Aces

New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart exited Saturday's 101-99 defeat against the Los Angeles Spa...

<p>New York Liberty star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27502" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27502">Breanna Stewart</a> exited Saturday's 101-99 defeat against the Los Angeles Sparks due to a lower leg injury, the team announced.</p><p>Stewart pulled up lame midway through the first quarter as she was running back on defense.</p><p>The two-time WNBA MVP subsequently signaled to the bench and was subbed out of the contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Breanna Stewart has been ruled out for the remainder of today’s game with a lower leg injury<br><br>(via <a href="https://twitter.com/LucasKaplan_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LucasKaplan_</a>) <a href="https://t.co/elXxJVpzj0">pic.twitter.com/elXxJVpzj0</a></p>— New York Liberty Videos (@SNYLiberty) <a href="https://twitter.com/SNYLiberty/status/1949254959058588087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello had no update on Stewart's injury after the contest, according to <a href="https://x.com/CraneAndrew/status/1949278600781341035">Andrew Crane of The New York Post</a>.</p><p>"Hopefully she'll be okay," the coach said postgame, per Crane.</p><p>Stewart finished three points and one rebound in three minutes of action.</p><p>The UConn product entered Saturday's game averaging 19 points, 6.8 boards, four assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks across 23 appearances this season.</p><p>Stewart earned her seventh career All-Star nod earlier this month.</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - JULY 22: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty looks on during the game against the Indiana Fever during a WNBA game on July 22, 2025 at Barclays Center Arena in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Stewie exits loss to Sparks with lower leg injury

Kansas head coach Bill Self was hospitalized Thursday after experiencing "some concerning symptom...

<p>Kansas head coach Bill Self was hospitalized Thursday after experiencing "some concerning symptoms," the school announced in a statement obtained by <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/1948530316181676494">CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein</a>.</p><p>Self underwent a heart procedure to insert two stents and is expected to make a full recovery.</p><p>The 62-year-old was released from the hospital Saturday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I want to thank all the amazing doctors and nurses at LMH Health for the excellent care I received during my stay there," Self said in a statement, per <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/1949197999097413752">Rothstein</a>. "I feel strong and am excited to be home. Our team has had a productive summer and look forward to our batteries being recharged and prepping for this upcoming season."</p><p>Self missed the 2023 Big 12 and NCAA Tournament due to a heart condition.</p><p>The Hall of Famer has spent the last 22 years with the Jayhawks, posting a 624-156 record and guiding the program to a pair of national championships.</p><p>Kansas inked Self to a lifetime contract extension in 2021.</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 20: Head coach Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks looks on during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 20, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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Kansas' Self released from hospital after heart procedure

Liam Draxl is beginning to put it all together ahead of his first main-draw appearance in singles...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/9769" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/9769">Liam Draxl</a> is beginning to put it all together ahead of his first main-draw appearance in singles play at an ATP tour-level tournament. </p><p>The Newmarket, Ontario, native enters the National Bank Open in Toronto ranked a career-high 115th in the world.</p><p>Draxl recently captured the Winnipeg National Bank Challenger to clinch a main-draw wild card into the Masters 1000 event as the "Road to the NBO" champion. He earned the coveted spot for accumulating the most ranking points among his compatriots at the Canadian-based competitions that preceded the nation's premier tennis tournament.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's unreal," Draxl told theScore of competing at the event he frequently attended as a kid. "It's great to play in Toronto. A true home crowd. I'm just super pumped.</p><p>"I've been slugging it out on the Challenger Tour a lot this year, so it's gonna be nice just to get a crack to play up a (level)."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/cropped_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w220xh124_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w320xh180_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w640xh360_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w768xh432_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Schwaberow / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Draxl turned pro in June 2023 following a standout career at the University of Kentucky, where he became the NCAA's No. 1 men's singles player as a sophomore and a three-time Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) All-American.</p><p>The 23-year-old has spent most of his pro career on the second-tier Challenger circuit and third-tier ITF World Tennis Tour. Draxl finished his senior year with the Wildcats as the nation's 11th-ranked singles player, which allowed him to receive a maximum of eight qualifying spots for select Challenger events over the next 12 months as part of the ATP/ITA Accelerator Programme.</p><p>The collaborative program was established two years ago and has served as a launching pad for top collegiate players transitioning to the pros, including American star Ben Shelton. It's allowed Draxl entry into Challenger tournaments that he would've otherwise been unable to compete in.</p><p>"It's a huge help," he told theScore. "It's a good opportunity to just get points and hopefully accelerate your ranking a little bit ... It's such a grind starting out in the (ITF) Futures (tournaments). Not a lot of (prize) money. You're paying for your hotel. There's not a lot of (ranking) points on the line.</p><p>"But in Challengers, at least you're getting your hotel covered and you're playing for good points, especially when you're starting from scratch off college."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/cropped_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w220xh124_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w320xh180_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w640xh360_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w768xh432_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Draxl climbed up the ATP rankings over the next two years, relying on his speed and counter-punching style of play. The 6-foot-1 righty wears his heart on his sleeve and doesn't mind engaging in extended rallies from the baseline. That style helped him take home a pair of ITF titles and his first Challenger crown during his rookie year.</p><p>While Draxl dropped his lone Challenger final in 2024, he added three more ITF championships to his trophy cabinet during the latter stages of the campaign. He parlayed that positive momentum into a breakout 2025 season, posting a 39-13 mark and an ATP single-year record seven Challenger final appearances.</p><p>The grind through the lower-level ITF and Challenger Tour hasn't always been easy, but Draxl says it's helped build mental fortitude.</p><p>"Tennis is a tough sport," Draxl told theScore. "There's just so much losing. ... You just gotta keep trusting the process and keep fighting. Not giving up. Not getting too down on yourself when the results aren't going your way, and keep trying to get better every day.</p><p>"I try to compete as hard as I can every point. The results will eventually come. So I think it's just kind of trying to learn your lessons from the losses, and trying to apply what you did wrong in the last tournament into the new week."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DMFu3pTgJ0T/?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/DMFu3pTgJ0T/?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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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Draxl lost his first five Challenger finals this season before finally breaking through in Winnipeg a few weeks ago, avenging a championship defeat in January to former World junior No. 1 Alexander Blockx.</p><p>The Canadian admits that his inability to get over the hump planted some seeds of doubt, but he entered his rematch against Blockx with a clearer mind.</p><p>"I've lost five (finals) already. So why be nervous? ... In a way, I tricked my brain as if I had nothing to lose," Draxl told theScore. "The worst possible outcome is what I've had. So I was like, 'Whatever, man. Just go for it.'</p><p>He's taking the same energy into his opening-round match against Spanish veteran Pablo Carreno Busta. He's looking to enjoy the moment on home soil and isn't putting much pressure on himself.</p><p>A maiden Masters 1000 main-draw victory would be a significant step toward his goal of cracking the ATP's top 100 by season's end and put him in position to secure a spot in the main draw of next year's Australian Open. But to get that desired result, Draxl knows he can't lose sight of the process that's got him to this point.</p><p>"I'm really not too much of an outcome-type of goal person," Draxl told theScore. "You just gotta focus on the tennis and let all the external factors just happen. Obviously, I want to be top 100. I'm close to that.</p><p>"But I gotta focus on my game and what I need to improve for that to happen."</p>

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Canada's Draxl in peak form ahead of National Bank Open debut

USC guard Alijah Arenas is expected to miss at least six-to-eight months after being diagnosed wi...

<p>USC guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/171932" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/171932">Alijah Arenas</a> is expected to miss at least six-to-eight months after being diagnosed with a knee injury that will require surgery, the school announced Wednesday.</p><p>The five-star Trojans commit sustained a torn meniscus and could miss the entire 2025-26 campaign, sources told NBA insider <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1948167980875125058">Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>Arenas, the son of three-time NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, was the third-ranked shooting guard and No. 13 overall prospect on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/class/2025/order/true">ESPN 100</a> for 2025. The California native committed to USC over Kentucky, Louisville, and Arizona.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Arenas was expected to play a key role in helping the Trojans bounce back from a 17-18 campaign.</p><p>The knee injury is the latest setback for the McDonald's All-American. Arenas was involved in a car crash last April and placed into a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation. The 18-year-old suffered no major injuries in the accident, but spent six days in the hospital before being released.</p><p>Arenas participated in his first practice with USC earlier this month, according to <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/1948180779101499470">ESPN's Jeff Borzello</a>.</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - APRIL 01: McDonalds High School All American Alijah Arenas (16) shoots a free throw against Darius Adams (20) during the McDonalds Boys High School All American Game on April 1, 2025, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

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5-star USC commit Arenas to miss at least 6-8 months with knee injury

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