LeBron James plans to accept his $52.6-million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> plans to accept his $52.6-million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025-26 season, ESPN's Shams Charania reported on the "<a href="https://x.com/PatMcAfeeShow/status/1927408747531436156">The Pat McAfee Show</a>" Tuesday.</p><p>James wants to have conversations with the Lakers about potential roster improvements, Charania adds.</p><p>His deadline to pick up the option is June 29.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Lakers made a monstrous deal for Dallas Mavericks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> in February, sending a package including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> the other way. The franchise went 18-10 with Doncic in the lineup, but was left with a massive hole at the center position after a trade for Charlotte Hornets center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102765" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102765">Mark Williams</a> was nixed.</p><p>Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3278881" href="https://thescore.com/news/3278881">said</a> after the defeat that the team will prioritize adding a center in free agency.</p><p>L.A. finished with a 50-32 record and was upset in Round 1 of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves. James <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279408" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279408">reportedly</a> suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in the team's final contest.</p><p>The 40-year-old averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.8 rebounds, and a steal in 70 regular-season games for Los Angeles this campaign and was named to the All-NBA second team for his efforts.</p><p>James will set an NBA record for most seasons played at 23 if he suits up next season. </p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 26: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers smiles after the game against the Indiana Pacers on March 26, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31403664/related

Report: LeBron likely to pick up $52.6M player option 

Giannis Antetokounmpo has yet to meet with the Milwaukee Bucks as he continues to mull his future...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> has yet to meet with the Milwaukee Bucks as he continues to mull his future, ESPN's Shams Charania reported on "<a href="https://x.com/PatMcAfeeShow/status/1927404287891525734">The Pat McAfee Show</a>" Tuesday.</p><p>However, the two parties are expected to meet during the offseason, Charania notes.</p><p>The Bucks are hoping Antetokounmpo will remain in Milwaukee out of loyalty, per Charania. The franchise is reportedly planning for a "gap year" to retool around the former MVP.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Milwaukee's only tradable draft pick is a 2031 first-rounder. Center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/300" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a>, guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60234" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60234">Gary Trent Jr.</a>, and wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24646" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24646">Taurean Prince</a> are all free agents, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30845" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30845">Bobby Portis</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11120">Pat Connaughton</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70216" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70216">Kevin Porter Jr.</a> have player options.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> is likely to miss a majority of next season due to an Achilles tear.</p><p>If Antetokounmpo requests a trade from the Bucks, he'll likely desire a big market, Charania adds.</p><p>Antetokounmpo, 30, averaged 30-plus points for a third straight season, adding 11.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks.</p><p>Milwaukee hasn't made it out of the first round of the playoffs since 2022. The Bucks have lost to the Indiana Pacers in two straight postseasons.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 25: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks dribbles up court against the Indiana Pacers during game three of the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs at Fiserv Forum on April 25, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31403443/related

Report: Giannis still mulling future, hasn't met with Bucks

Alex Condon is returning to Florida for his junior season and will take his name out of NBA draft...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110701" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110701">Alex Condon</a> is returning to Florida for his junior season and will take his name out of NBA draft consideration, he told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/45345388/australian-alex-condon-leaves-nba-draft-return-florida">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>. </p><p>"It's a really good situation waiting for me there," Condon said. "A great coach with Todd Golden. Teammates I won a national championship with. I have great chemistry with those boys. We have a good transfer class coming in. I expect guys to make a leap. My big man coach, Carlin Hartman, is returning, so I will keep developing my game with him."</p><p>The Australian big man averaged 10.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.3 blocks last season, making the All-SEC third team.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Florida went 36-4, winning its last 12 games to claim both the SEC and NCAA titles.</p><p>"This was a surreal season," Condon said. "There was so much depth on this team, and we all played unselfishly. A lot of guys stepped up in big moments. We had a great team, and that's the reason we won the championship."</p><p>Florida has bolstered its team this offseason by adding guards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/105711" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/105711">Xaivian Lee</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/161991" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/161991">Boogie Fland</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103475" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103475">AJ Brown</a> in the transfer portal.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS - APRIL 07: Alex Condon #21 of the Florida Gators drives to the basket during the NCAA Men's Basketball National Championship game at Alamodome on April 07, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31403138/related

Alex Condon opts for junior season at Florida over draft

Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook is undergoing surgery to repair two breaks in his right ha...

<p>Denver Nuggets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> is undergoing surgery to repair two breaks in his right hand, he announced on his "<a href="https://word-of-westbrook.beehiiv.com/p/to-tunnel-fit-or-not-to-tunnel-fit-ef5ccd897678506f">Word of Westbrook</a>" newsletter Tuesday.</p><p>Westbrook said the breaks occurred during the season.</p><p>"I'm grateful for everyone's support all year, and I can't wait to be back out there at 100% soon," he said. "The comeback is already in motion."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 36-year-old averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals in 75 games for the Nuggets this season. He recorded 11.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 13 playoff contests, although he shot just 39% from the field.</p><p>Westbrook signed a two-year, $6.7-million contract with Denver last year. He holds a $3.4-million player option this summer.</p><p>The Nuggets finished the season 50-32. They were eliminated in the Western Conference semifinals by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Denver hired interim coach David Adelman on a full-time basis earlier in May.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MAY 13: Russell Westbrook #4 of the Denver Nuggets dribbles the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round 2 Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 13, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31402894/related

Nuggets' Westbrook undergoing hand surgery

Yaxel Lendeborg opted to play at Michigan for the 2025-26 season instead of staying in the NBA dr...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110337" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110337">Yaxel Lendeborg</a> opted to play at Michigan for the 2025-26 season instead of staying in the NBA draft, he told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/45344623/yaxel-lendeborg-exits-nba-draft-process-heads-michigan">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>.</p><p>"While it's been and still is a dream of mine to play in the NBA, I feel the development and growth as a player and a person I will gain at the University of Michigan will be very beneficial," Lendeborg said.</p><p>Lendeborg was seen as a potential first-round pick. He averaged 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 55% from the field and 36% from three at UAB this past season. The 6-foot-9 forward earned All-AAC first-team and conference Defensive Player of the Year nods in back-to-back seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 22-year-old was seen as the top player available in the transfer portal. He committed to play for the Wolverines and head coach Dusty May in April while exploring the NBA draft process, going to the combine and privately working out for teams, according to Givony.</p><p>"I'd like to thank Coach May and staff for allowing me to go through this process without any pressure, the Champions Circle collective for helping make this opportunity possible, and all the NBA teams I worked out for, allowing me to experience the pre-draft process," Lendeborg said.</p><p>Michigan went 27-10 in May's first season. The Wolverines won the Big Ten Tournament and returned to March Madness for the first time since 2022, losing to Auburn in the Sweet 16.</p><p>The Wolverines have also added North Carolina point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110557" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110557">Elliot Cadeau</a>, Illinois forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121812" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121812">Morez Johnson Jr.</a>, and UCLA center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110610" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110610">Aday Mara</a> from the transfer portal.</p>

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 14: Yaxel Lendeborg prepares to shoot a free throw during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine on May 14, 2025 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31402593/related

Yaxel Lendeborg joins Michigan after leaving NBA draft process

Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is unbothered by being called a "free-throw me...

<p>Oklahoma City Thunder star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> is unbothered by being called a "free-throw merchant" by opposing fans and critics.</p><p>"In terms of the label, I don't care," Gilgeous-Alexander said after the team's win in Game 4 of the Western Conference finals, according to <a href="https://x.com/ESPNNBA/status/1927227497726275817">ESPN</a>. "I never cared … I've shot more free throws in a season than I did this season. I think because we're on top of everybody's radar, it's a little more noticeable, and now people care about it. But I kind of see it as a compliment."</p><p>Fans <a href="https://x.com/SportsCenter/status/1927173243120525808">showered</a> Gilgeous-Alexander with the moniker on Monday night, and ESPN analyst Doris Burke even <a href="https://x.com/jehavuhejndhs/status/1927177080128602535">used</a> it on the television broadcast. But it didn't affect his play: Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points and 10 assists to help his team top the Minnesota Timberwolves. He went 12-for-14 from the free-throw line, while no other player shot more than seven attempts from the charity stripe.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The fans, they're going to do whatever they can do to help their team win and knock me off my game, being the head of the snake of our team," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "That's their job, that's what creates home court advantage, that's what creates a fan base, that's what creates energy in the building. They want the Timberwolves to win, they don't want the Oklahoma City Thunder to win. So I expect nothing else."</p><p>The newly crowned regular-season MVP has led the NBA in free throws over the last three campaigns. He made 601 during the 2024-25 season and a career-best 669 in the 2022-23 campaign. Kevin Durant holds the free-throw record for an active player, having knocked down 756 in the 2009-10 season. </p><p>The Thunder can reach the Finals with a victory against the Timberwolves on Wednesday.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MAY 26: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots a free throw during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Western Conference Finals on May 26, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31402471/related

SGA: 'Free-throw merchant' label is a compliment

Milos Uzan will withdraw his name from the NBA draft and return to Houston for his senior season,...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103081" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103081">Milos Uzan</a> will withdraw his name from the NBA draft and return to Houston for his senior season, his agent told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/45342860/milos-uzan-withdrawing-nba-draft-return-houston">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>.</p><p>Uzan averaged 11.4 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in his first campaign with the Cougars, making the All-Big 12 second team. Houston went 35-5, winning the Big 12's regular-season and tournament titles. The team earned a No. 1 seed in March Madness and made it all the way to the national championship before losing to Florida.</p><p>Houston starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103134" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103134">Emanuel Sharp</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110355" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110355">Joseph Tugler</a> are also returning next year. Additionally, the program landed Sam Houston center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110630" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110630">Kalifa Sakho</a> in the transfer portal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Cougars are also bringing in three top-25 high school recruits: five-star center Chris Cenac, five-star guard Isiah Harwell, and four-star guard Kingston Flemings. </p><p>Former Creighton guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103105" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103105">Pop Isaacs</a> had planned to transfer to Houston, but he's now headed to Texas A&amp;M, his agency told <a href="https://x.com/tobias_bass/status/1927344996669149423">The Athletic's Tobias Bass</a>.</p><p>Uzan spent two years at Oklahoma before joining the Cougars last season.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS - APRIL 07: Milos Uzan #7 of the Houston Cougars reacts during the first half in the National Championship of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament against the Florida Gators at the Alamodome on April 07, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31401894/related

Milos Uzan to withdraw from draft, return to Houston

Former Memphis guard PJ Haggerty has withdrawn from the NBA draft and has committed to Kansas Sta...

<p>Former Memphis guard PJ Haggerty has withdrawn from the NBA draft and has committed to Kansas State, he told <a href="https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1927059764451623373">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>. </p><p>Haggerty <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3269742" href="https://thescore.com/news/3269742">entered</a> the portal in April. He was reportedly seeking at least $4 million from his new team, but Kansas State guaranteed him $2 million in NIL in addition to $500K in incentives, sources told college basketball insider <a href="https://x.com/AdamZagoria/status/1927064861902540912">Adam Zagoria</a>.</p><p>The 6-foot-3 guard averaged 21.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game for Memphis this past season and was named a second-team All-American for his play.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 5-seeded Tigers lost to No. 12 Colorado State in the first round of March Madness. </p><p>Haggerty previously played at TCU and Tulsa before joining Memphis, averaging 21.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists with the Golden Hurricanes in 2023-24.</p><p>Kansas State is 61-42 since Jerome Tang took over in 2022. The Wildcats made the Elite Eight in 2023, but have not reached March Madness since. </p>

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - DECEMBER 21: PJ Haggerty #4 of the Memphis Tigers handles the ball during the game ppi State Bulldogs at FedExForum on December 21, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31397174/related

PJ Haggerty withdraws from draft, commits to Kansas State

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark will be out at least two weeks due to a left quad strain, the te...

<p>Indiana Fever star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a> will be out at least two weeks due to a left quad strain, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Clark's status will be updated after further evaluation. </p><p>The 23-year-old is averaging 19 points, a league-high 9.3 assists, six rebounds, and 1.3 steals in four games this season. The Fever are 2-2 after losing their last contest to the reigning champion New York Liberty.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Clark revealed in the preseason that she was dealing with a quad injury, according to <a href="https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/basketball/wnba/fever/2025/05/10/caitlin-clark-injury-news-update-left-quadriceps-nothing-serious-indiana-fever-wnba-will-she-play/83556147007/">Chloe Peterson of the Indianapolis Star</a>. Her current injury is new, <a href="https://x.com/chloepeterson67/status/1927049507151217024">Peterson</a> reports.</p><p>Fever head coach Stephanie White says she isn't sure when Clark got hurt, but the second-year guard experienced some pain in her leg following Saturday's defeat to the Liberty, per <a href="https://x.com/alexaphilippou/status/1927106561735836098">ESPN's Alexa Philippou</a>.</p><p>"Sometimes great players don't tell you when they're hurting," White told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://x.com/RomeovilleKid/status/1927103375557918882">The Athletic's James Boyd</a>. "I'm glad that she did, because we need to nip this in the bud."</p><p>Clark has yet to miss a game in the WNBA, but she did miss a preseason contest with an injury to the same leg. She also didn't miss any games while playing collegiately at Iowa, appearing in 139 contests over four seasons.</p><p>In her first season with Indiana, Clark was named an All-Star and made All-WNBA first team. She also won Rookie of the Year and led the league in assists.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MAY 24: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever dribbles the ball against the New York Liberty at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on May 24, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31396727/related

Caitlin Clark out at least 2 weeks with quad strain

John Haliburton, the father of Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, can watch home games from ...

<p>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>, can watch home games from a suite starting Tuesday, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45330654/sources-tyrese-haliburton-dad-allowed-pacers-home-games">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The elder Haliburton was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3278930" href="https://thescore.com/news/3278930">barred</a> from Pacers contests due to his confrontation with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> after Indiana eliminated the Milwaukee Bucks from the playoffs in late April. John apologized on social media for the interaction, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3278930" href="https://thescore.com/news/3278930">adding</a> later that he had been caught up in the moment.</p><p>Indiana defeated the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semifinals and is up 2-1 in the conference finals.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The younger Haliburton has averaged 18.9 points, 8.1 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game without his father in attendance. </p><p>The Pacers can take a 3-1 series led with a victory Tuesday.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 22: John Halliburton poses for a photo during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks during Round 1 Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31396542/related

Report: John Haliburton allowed to watch Pacers home games

Forward Pascal Siakam admitted the Indiana Pacers didn't play their style of basketball in their ...

<p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> admitted the Indiana Pacers didn't play their style of basketball in their 106-100 Game 3 loss to the New York Knicks.</p><p>"We got to stay playing our way, and we just didn't," Siakam said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45323762/pacers-say-play-their-way-game-3-loss-knicks">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. </p><p>Indiana had a chance to take a commanding 3-0 advantage in the Eastern Conference finals but blew a 20-point first-half lead. The Knicks outscored the Pacers 61-42 in the second half, which included <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a>' 20-point fourth quarter.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Pacers' high-octane offense was limited. They shot 44% from the field and went 5-of-25 from three.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> said their slowed tempo was the result of trying to get players in the right positions, and he shouldered the blame for it.</p><p>"I think down the stretch, a game like this comes down to one or two possessions, so just trying to execute the right way, get guys in the right spots. But yeah, it's definitely an area where I know when I watch film, I'm going to kick myself for it."</p><p>"I got to be better there. Honestly, I think a lot of our offensive struggles in the second half were due to me, so I got to be better there, and I will be better in Game 4."</p><p>Haliburton led the Pacers with 20 points and seven assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37711" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37711">Myles Turner</a> added 19 points, while Siakam contributed 17 after dropping a playoff-career high 39 in Game 2.</p><p>The Pacers host Game 4 on Tuesday.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 25: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Game 3 of the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals on May 25, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31395403/related

Pacers' Siakam: We didn't play our way in Game 3

The NBA announced the 2024-25 All-Defensive teams Thursday.  Evan Mobley, the newly crowned Defen...

<p>The NBA announced the 2024-25 All-Defensive teams Thursday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a>, the newly crowned Defensive Player of the Year, made the All-Defensive first team alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102785" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102785">Dyson Daniels</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70382" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70382">Lu Dort</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110271" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110271">Amen Thompson</a>.</p><p><strong>2024-25 All-Defensive first team</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th> Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dyson Daniels</td>
<td> Atlanta Hawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lu Dort</td>
<td> Oklahoma City Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Draymond Green</td>
<td> Golden State Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Evan Mobley</td>
<td> Cleveland Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amen Thompson</td>
<td> Houston Rockets</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Mobley received 99 first-team votes, while Daniels got 91.</p><p>Green has now racked up nine All-Defensive selections over his career, tied with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> for the most by a current active player.</p><p>Daniels led the league in steals with 3.0 per game. He recorded 229 on the season, the most by a player in the 2000s since Allen Iverson's 225 in 2002-03. The Australian guard joins Dort and Thompson as first-timers on the All-Defensive team.</p><p><strong>2024-25 All-Defensive second team</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th> Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Toumani Camara</td>
<td> Portland Trail Blazers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rudy Gobert</td>
<td> Minnesota Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaren Jackson Jr.</td>
<td> Memphis Grizzlies</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Williams</td>
<td> Oklahoma City Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ivica Zubac</td>
<td> Los Angeles Clippers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Dort's teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a> was named to the All-Defensive second team, joining former Defensive Player of the Year winners <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62285" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62285">Jaren Jackson Jr</a>.</p><p>Gobert leads all players in All-Defensive nods. He earned seven first-team selections between 2017 and 2024. This is the four-time Defensive Player of the Year's first second-team appearance.</p><p>Williams, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110264" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110264">Toumani Camara</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52287" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52287">Ivica Zubac</a> received their first ever All-Defensive nods this season.</p><p>New York Knicks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a> was the first player to miss the second-team cut, receiving 49 total votes.</p><p>This is the second year that All-Defensive teams didn't have position requirements.</p>

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 28: Dyson Daniels #5 of the Atlanta Hawks and Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets embrace after the game on January 28, 2025 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. 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

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31361260/related

Daniels, Amen Thompson highlight NBA All-Defensive teams

Houston coach Kelvin Sampson has received a new four-year deal to stay with the school through th...

<p>Houston coach Kelvin Sampson has received a new four-year deal to stay with the school through the 2028-29 season, the program announced Wednesday.</p><p>The contract will keep Sampson among the highest-paid coaches in college basketball, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/1925205592953561500">Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports</a>.</p><p>"It is hard to truly put into words what Kelvin Sampson has meant to our men's basketball program, our athletics department, our university, and our greater Houston community," vice president of athletics Eddie Nunez said in a statement. "His success as a coach on the court is even more impressive when considering the tremendous impact he has had on the many young men to come through our program."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sampson has served as Houston's coach since 2014. He's taken the Cougars to seven straight March Madness appearances, including two Final Fours in 2021 and 2025. </p><p>Houston won a season-record 35 games before losing to Florida in the national championship in April.</p><p>Sampson has amassed a 299-84 record with the Cougars, including a 151-48 mark in conference play.</p><p>Prior to joining Houston, he served as head coach at Montana Tech, Washington State, Oklahoma, and Indiana. Sampson was also an assistant coach for the Milwaukee Bucks and Houston Rockets. </p>

College Basketball: NCAA Finals: Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson in action, looks on from the sideline vs Florida at the Alamo Dome. San Antonio, TX 4/7/2025 CREDIT: Greg Nelson (Set Number: X164706 TK1)

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31349860/related

Houston gives Sampson new 4-year contract

The Eastern and Western Conference finals were decided when the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City...

<p>The Eastern and Western Conference finals were decided when the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunder secured spots in the penultimate round, joining the Indiana Pacers and Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>Here, we rank the four potential combinations to meet in the NBA Finals, which begin June 5.</p><h3>4. Pacers vs. Timberwolves</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/cropped_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dylan Buell / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Tyrese Haliburton versus Anthony Edwards</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It may rank fourth on our list, but a series between the Timberwolves and Pacers would be a sight to behold. These two top-10 offenses go about their scoring in very different ways. Indiana is run-and-gun, pushing the ball whenever possible, while Minnesota was the sixth-slowest team in the regular season.</p><p>The Pacers won both contests in March. Controlling the glass would be key for both squads. Minnesota's gargantuan starting five is averaging 9.2 offensive rebounds per game in the postseason. Rudy Gobert, in particular, has been a menace on the glass and pulled down eight offensive boards across his two regular-season matchups against Indiana. To their credit, the Pacers have been the best defensive rebounding team in the playoffs, grabbing 43.7 per game.</p><p>Both teams possess explosive guards who can take over a series. Haliburton has turned into prime Steve Nash since the calendar flipped to 2025; including playoff games, the Pacers guard has racked up an absurd 472 assists to just 78 turnovers. Edwards, meanwhile, was the regular season's second-leading scorer (29.5) and recorded nine games of 40-plus points.</p><h3>3. Thunder vs. Pacers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/cropped_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">A.J. Mast / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup:</strong> Jalen Williams versus Pascal Siakam</p><p>An Oklahoma City-Indiana matchup could be considered one of the smallest in terms of market size, but that doesn't take anything away from their quality of basketball. In a clash of contrasting styles, the Pacers rank first in offensive rating (117.3) out of all teams remaining in the playoffs, while the Thunder have the top defensive rating (101.6).</p><p>Oklahoma City won both regular-season matchups. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped at least 30 points in each, while Indiana struggled to get a high-scoring effort from any player. The Pacers would need someone to take the reins offensively to match SGA. Siakam leads the team in playoff scoring at 18.8 points per game, but Tyrese Haliburton (17.5) and Myles Turner (16.5) are close behind.</p><p>The Thunder have intriguing matchups to defend Siakam. They used several different defenders in their final regular-season matchup, most notably Jalen Williams. Siakam would be the likely candidate to guard J-Dub, who averaged 17.6 points in the West semifinals.</p><h3>2. Thunder vs. Knicks</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/cropped_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w220xh124_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w320xh180_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w640xh360_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w768xh432_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jesse D. Garrabrant / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander versus Jalen Brunson</p><p>The Thunder and Knicks are led by ball-dominant point guards who can both score and distribute at will. Eyeballs will be on Gilgeous-Alexander and Brunson, who are both averaging at least 28 points and 6.5 assists in the postseason.</p><p>Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein would be a player of interest. The former Knicks big man spent two seasons with New York, but Oklahoma City signed him away last summer. Hartenstein averaged career highs in points (11.2), rebounds (10.7), and assists (3.8) during the regular season. He ranks fourth in points and second in rebounds for his team in the playoffs.</p><p>A key contrast would be the minutes distribution. No player in the Knicks' starting lineup is averaging less than 35 minutes, while Oklahoma City's deep rotation has nine players averaging at least 11 minutes. Only Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams play as much as New York's starting five.</p><h3>1. Knicks vs. Timberwolves</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/cropped_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Berding / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Julius Randle<strong> </strong>versus Karl-Anthony Towns</p><p>We rarely see two teams swap multiple-time All-Stars and face off in the NBA Finals a few months later. The trade involving Towns for Randle and Donte DiVincenzo has been an unmitigated success for both franchises; an NBA title would make it a championship-winning trade for one organization.</p><p>Towns' acquisition gave the Knicks an elite shooter, as the 29-year-old is knocking down 42% of his 3-pointers. Randle, meanwhile, gifted the T-Wolves some interior toughness and scoring, grabbing 2.1 offensive rebounds per game despite playing next to Rudy Gobert. The battle between Brunson and Edwards is another tantalizing matchup involving two of the league's best offensive guards. Brunson and Edwards are the postseason's sixth- and eighth-leading scorers, respectively.</p><p>How 37-year-old Mike Conley holds up would be a major storyline. New York and Minnesota split the season series 1-1. Conley scored 13 points on 5-of-9 shooting in the T-Wolves' victory, but he was held to three points and hit just one of his five field-goal attempts in the loss.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31340070/related

Ranking the 4 potential NBA Finals matchups

Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green admits he lost his defensive matchup against Minneso...

<p>Golden State Warriors veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> admits he lost his defensive matchup against Minnesota Timberwolves forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> in the Western Conference semifinals.</p><p>"I lost my matchup," Green said on <a href="https://x.com/DraymondShow/status/1924555835625062731">"The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis"</a> on Saturday. "Julius was incredible. And honestly? Some of the shots was shots that you want him to take, and he made them. ... The game oftentimes comes down to shotmaking, and he made the shots.</p><p>"We've been kinda having these little battles since Ju came into the league. Obviously this is the first one on a playoff level, but I got to give it to him, man, he got the better of me."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Green likened the feeling of losing his matchup to Randle to playing then-Toronto Raptors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> in the 2019 NBA Finals.</p><p>Randle averaged 25.2 points, 7.4 assists, and 6.6 rebounds in the Western Conference semifinals. He ranked second on the team in scoring behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a>, who averaged 26.2 points per game.</p><p>Green had a quieter series by comparison, posting 10.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.2 steals.</p><p>The Timberwolves defeated the Warriors in five games, leading to their second straight Western Conference finals appearance. </p><p>In 10 postseason games this year, Randle is averaging 23.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. In two playoff stints with the New York Knicks in 2021 and 2023, he averaged 18 points per game and 16.6 points per game. </p><p>Minnesota faces off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the conference finals starting Tuesday. </p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MAY 12: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors and Julius Randle #30 of the Minnesota Timberwolves wait for a rebound during Round Two, Game Four of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 12, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31338500/related

Draymond: 'I lost my matchup' against Randle in West semis

Texas Tech head coach Grant McCasland has signed a six-year contract extension through the 2030-3...

<p>Texas Tech head coach Grant McCasland has signed a six-year contract extension through the 2030-31 season, the school announced Monday.</p><p>The extension makes him one of the highest-paid college basketball coaches. </p><p>"Coach McCasland immediately built upon our men's basketball program's established success and continues working to raise and deliver on high expectations," athletic director Kirby Hocutt said in a statement. "We look forward to an exciting future for Texas Tech basketball under Coach McCasland's leadership."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>McCasland has spent two seasons as the Red Raiders' coach, going 51-20. This past campaign, Texas Tech went 28-9 and reached the Elite Eight before losing to Florida, the eventual national champion.</p><p>Prior to joining the Red Raiders, McCasland coached North Texas from 2017-23. The Mean Green won the C-USA Tournament and made it to the Round of 32 in 2021.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 27: Head coach Grant McCasland of the Texas Tech Red Raiders reacts after beating the Arkansas Razorbacks 85-83 during overtime in the West Regional Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Chase Center on March 27, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31336765/related

Texas Tech's McCasland signs extension through 2030-31 season

Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman praised Aaron Gordon's effort for playing through a hamst...

<p>Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman praised <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a>'s effort for playing through a hamstring strain in the team's 125-93 Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>"Gordon is incredible," Adelman said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SIChrisMannix/status/1924228163405758519">Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated</a>. "What he played with today, I don't know many people that would even attempt to go run up and down ... one of the most incredible things I've ever seen."</p><p>Gordon recorded eight points and 11 rebounds in 25 minutes Sunday after being given the green light following the pregame warmup.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The injury, which occurred during the Nuggets' Game 6 win, is a Grade 2 strain and will need several weeks to heal, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1924099706130514392">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> reports.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> led the Nuggets in scoring with 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a> added 19 points, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> contributed 13.</p><p>Gordon was a key part of the Nuggets' playoff run, averaging 16.2 points, 7.6 boards, and 2.7 assists across 14 appearances. The 6-foot-8 forward had his share of clutch moments in this postseason, including a game-winning triple against the Thunder in the series opener.</p><p>Denver was scoring 28 more points per 100 possessions with Gordon on the floor in the playoffs entering Game 7.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MAY 18: Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder plays defense during the game against the Denver Nuggets during Round 2 Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31324205/related

Adelman: Gordon 'incredible' for playing through injury in Game 7

The NBA announced the schedule for both conference finals matchups.  The No. 1 seed Oklahoma City...

<p>The NBA announced the schedule for both conference finals matchups.</p><p>The No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder will host the 6-seed Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals Tuesday.</p><p>In the East, the No. 3 seed New York Knicks will face off against the 4-seed Indiana Pacers in a rematch from last season beginning Wednesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's the key viewing information for both series:</p><h3>Eastern Conference</h3><p><strong>New York Knicks (3) vs. Indiana Pacers (4)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td> May 21</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> May 23</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> May 25</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> May 27</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td> May 29</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td> May 31</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td> June 2</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td> Pacers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Western Conference </h3><p><strong>Oklahoma City Thunder (1) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (6)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td> May 20</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td> T-Wolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> May 22</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td>T-Wolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> May 24</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> T-Wolves</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> May 26</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> T-Wolves</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td> May 28</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td>T-Wolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td> May 30</td>
<td> 8:30 p.m.</td>
<td> T-Wolves</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>June 1</td>
<td> 8 p.m.</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td>T-Wolves</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>* If necessary</em></p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MAY 10: Close up of the Playoffs logo during the game between the Golden State Warriors and the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round 2 Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 10, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31329643/related

NBA finalizes conference finals schedule

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is feeling ready for Game 7.  "It's do-or-die," Gilgeous-Alexander said T...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> is feeling ready for Game 7.</p><p>"It's do-or-die," Gilgeous-Alexander said Thursday after the Oklahoma City Thunder's Game 6 loss to the Denver Nuggets. "It's what you live for. It's what you worked your whole life for. It's either your dream continues or your dream ends, so you lay it all out there on the floor and live with the results. But I'm excited for the opportunity, for sure."</p><p>He led his team in scoring, posting 32 points and six assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> was the only other Thunder player to score more than 10 points, adding 19 to go along with 10 rebounds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gilgeous-Alexander also offered encouragement for All-Star teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a>, who recorded six points on 3-for-16 shooting in the 119-107 defeat.</p><p>"It's life," Gilgeous-Alexander said, according to <a href="https://x.com/CAlmanza1007/status/1923228947904450966">Clemente Almanza of OKC Thunder Wire</a>. "It's basketball. Tonight wasn't his night, clearly. Best part about it is he'll have an opportunity to change that if he has a big game next game."</p><p>Going into Game 6, Gilgeous-Alexander was averaging 28 points, 6.7 assists, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per playoff contest. The 26-year-old has shot 44.6% from the field and 24% from three.</p><p>The Thunder won 68 games during the regular season, the most in franchise history. They earned the top overall seed in the playoffs and swept the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander, the likely MVP, averaged 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game in the regular season.</p><p>Oklahoma City hosts Game 7 on Sunday.</p>

DENVER, CO - MAY 15: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets during Round 2 Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 15, 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

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31303178/related

Thunder's SGA ready for 'do-or-die' Game 7

The Minnesota Timberwolves will return to the Western Conference finals for a second straight sea...

<p>The Minnesota Timberwolves will return to the Western Conference finals for a second straight season after eliminating the Golden State Warriors with a 121-110 victory Wednesday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> led the Timberwolves in scoring with 29 points and eight rebounds, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> added 22 points, 12 assists, and seven boards.</p><p>The Timberwolves recorded 36 assists in the win.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Minnesota won four straight after dropping the first game of the series. It will face either the Oklahoma City Thunder or Denver Nuggets in the conference finals, beginning the next round on the road.</p><p>Edwards said he feels "no satisfaction" with the team's playoff run so far, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1922878420045754510">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>Minnesota reached the West finals as the 3-seed last year, beating the Nuggets and Phoenix Suns before losing to the Dallas Mavericks. Prior to last season, the franchise had reached the conference finals just once in 34 years of existence - in 2004.</p><p>Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch said he issued a challenge to his team all season.</p><p>"Were you a Western Conference finals team, or were you a team that just happened to make the Western Conference finals," Finch said, per <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1922871390698385730">McMenamin</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110258" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110258">Brandin Podziemski</a> recorded 28 points, six rebounds, and four assists for the Warriors in Wednesday's loss. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> contributed 26 points off the bench.</p><p>Steve Kerr suffered his first playoff series defeat in five games or fewer since joining the Warriors in 2014, according to <a href="https://x.com/SamQuinnCBS/status/1922866064460833016">Sam Quinn of CBS Sports</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> missed the majority of the series after suffering a hamstring injury in Game 1. He was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285817" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285817">cleared</a> for shooting drills and light on-court workouts in hopes of returning for a potential Game 6.</p><p>The Warriors went 48-34 in the regular season, boasting the league's best defense after the All-Star break and the acquisition of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>. The Warriors beat the Grizzlies in the play-in tournament to reach the postseason then topped the Houston Rockets in seven games in the first round.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MAY 14: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors during Round 2 Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 14, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31294609/related

T-Wolves reach 2nd straight WCF after knocking out Warriors

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/donald-higney/content_cards

Donald Higney

Basketball News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/thomas-tittley/content_cards

Thomas Tittley

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/chicco-nacion/content_cards