Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 40 points and eight assists in three quarters to lead the Oklahom...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> dropped 40 points and eight assists in three quarters to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a blowout 134-114 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>The Thunder and Cavaliers are now tied for the best record in the league at 34-6. Cleveland previously beat Oklahoma City on Jan. 8 in a back-and-forth contest, ending the Thunder's 15-game winning streak.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander, who leads in the league in made free throws (7.2) and is second in attempts (8.1) went 5-for-5 from the line in the contest. He <a href="https://x.com/NBAonTNT/status/1880087392297840825">said</a> postgame that he didn't need them to be effective offensively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"When they come, it's a plus, but I don't need 'em." Gilgeous-Alexander said. "I get it however I take it."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70382" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70382">Luguentz Dort</a> scored 22 points Thursday, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a> added 19 points, six rebounds, five assists, three steals, and two blocks.</p><p>The Thunder led by as many as 42 points over the course of the contest and forced 21 turnovers.</p><p>Oklahoma City was without centers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Isaiah Hartenstein</a>, starting 6-foot-9 forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102798" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102798">Jaylin Williams</a> at the five. Rookie big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121701" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121701">Branden Carlson</a> added 11 points off the bench to help the Thunder improve their home record to 18-2.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> led the Cavaliers with 20 points and nine assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a> recorded eight points on 3-for-15 shooting after scoring 11 points in the team's last matchup against the Thunder.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - JANUARY 16: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder handles the ball in front of Darius Garland #10 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first half at Paycom Center on January 16, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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SGA drops 40 in 3 quarters, Thunder get revenge on Cavs

The Charlotte Hornets are trading center Nick Richards and a second-round pick to the Phoenix Sun...

<p>The Charlotte Hornets are trading center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93878" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93878">Nick Richards</a> and a second-round pick to the Phoenix Suns for wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52700" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52700">Josh Okogie</a> and three second-round selections.</p><p>Richards is averaging 8.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.2 blocks. In nine starts, he's put up 11.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks. He's expected to become the Suns' starting center once he's acclimated, according to <a href="https://x.com/Gambo987/status/1879655695676846589">John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM</a>.</p><p>The Hornets receive one second-round pick in 2026 and two in 2031, while the Suns acquire a second-round selection in this year's draft.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Richards, 27, is under contract with a $5-million cap hit this season and next.</p><p>The Suns benched starting center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37599" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37599">Jusuf Nurkic</a>, along with wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a>, on Jan. 6. Nurkic played two games off the bench and has missed the last four contests.</p><p>Phoenix ranks 11th in the Western Conference with a 19-20 record. After starting the season 9-3, the Suns have gone 10-17 over the last two months.</p><p>Okogie is averaging six points and 2.9 rebounds in 25 games. The 26-year-old has played three seasons with Phoenix. He signed a two-year, $16-million deal with the franchise last offseason.</p><p>The Hornets are 14th in the Eastern Conference with a 8-28 record. They've lost nine of their last 10 games.</p><p>Charlotte has acquired two first round-picks and eight second-round selections in trades since January 2024, according to <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1879649139908067539">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - JANUARY 12: Nick Richards #4 of the Charlotte Hornets looks on during the game against the Phoenix Suns on January 12, 2025 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Suns acquire Hornets' Richards for Okogie, picks

San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama reacted to news on social media that a game-worn jerse...

<p>San Antonio Spurs phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> reacted to news on social media that a game-worn jersey he gave to a young fan in December was put up for sale on an auction website.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="art" dir="ltr">😭 <a href="https://t.co/b7jQHgiPLc">https://t.co/b7jQHgiPLc</a></p>— Wemby (@wemby) <a href="https://twitter.com/wemby/status/1879576636653543639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>After the Spurs' 96-87 Dec. 27 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, Wembanyama swapped his game-worn jersey with a young fan who was wearing his own San Antonio jersey. The fan also held a sign asking for the trade.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Best jersey swap ever 🥹 <a href="https://t.co/mcJxJQXlJI">pic.twitter.com/mcJxJQXlJI</a></p>— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) <a href="https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1872844531185664005?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The jersey was put up for <a href="https://goldin.co/item/dec-27-2024-victor-wembanyama-game-used-san-antonio-spurs-city-editionksjgd?queryId=eyJjYXJkSW5kZXgiOjJ9">sale</a> on the Goldin website with the starting bid set at $10,000. The auction opens Jan. 22.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wembanyama and Spurs teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> also <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1879049594342129904">gave</a> their signed jerseys to the sons of Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick earlier this week after they <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43410122/jj-redick-sons-get-jerseys-chris-paul-victor-wembanyama">lost</a> their memorabilia collection in the Pacific Palisades wildfire that burned down the family's home. </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 27: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs in action against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on December 27, 2024 in New York City.

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Wemby sad after viral swapped jersey gets put up for auction

Darko Rajakovic can't wait for the day Steph Curry retires.  The Toronto Raptors coach shared his...

<p>Darko Rajakovic can't wait for the day <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a> retires.</p><p>The Toronto Raptors coach shared his plans for the day when the 36-year-old calls it a career and his team no longer has to go against him.</p><p>"I'm going to get drunk that night," Rajakovic said Monday after his team's 104-101 win over the Warriors. "I promise you that. I'm going to celebrate."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">“I can’t wait for him to retire, I’m going to get drunk that night. I promise you that.” <br><br>Darko Rajaković on the challenges of coaching against Steph Curry. <a href="https://t.co/YmDKrFGm8x">pic.twitter.com/YmDKrFGm8x</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1879023708914032728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Rajakovic also praised Curry, calling it "a privilege" to work in the same era as the 3-point shooting icon.</p><p>The 45-year-old knows Curry well through his time as an assistant coach. Rajakovic was with the Oklahoma City Thunder when they relinquished a 3-1 series lead to the Warriors in the 2016 Western Conference finals. He was also on the Memphis Grizzlies' bench when they lost to Golden State in the 2022 Western Conference semifinals.</p><p>Curry recorded 26 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in Monday's defeat. He <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3170223" href="https://thescore.com/news/3170223">admitted</a> in December that the end of his illustrious career "is near."</p>

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 19: Darko Rajakovic head coach of the Toronto Raptors looks on from the sidelines as his team plays the Brooklyn Nets during the first half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on December 19, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 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.

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Darko can't wait for Curry's retirement: 'I'm going to get drunk'

The Washington Wizards are considering moving Jonas Valanciunas before the Feb. 6 trade deadline ...

<p>The Washington Wizards are considering moving <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11051">Jonas Valanciunas</a> before the Feb. 6 trade deadline if the right deal appears, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6059442/2025/01/14/jonas-valanciunas-trade-wizards/">The Athletic's Josh Robbins and David Aldridge</a>.</p><p>The Lithuanian center's maximum trade value is believed to be two second-round picks, Robbins and Aldridge report.</p><p>Valanciunas is averaging 11.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 19.8 minutes of action. The 32-year-old has played largely as a reserve, coming off the bench in 30 out of 38 games this campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Wizards signed Valanciunas to a three-year, $30.3-million contract this offseason. His final year is non-guaranteed. Teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, and Denver Nuggets have reportedly been interested in Valanciunas this season.</p><p>He's averaged 13.3 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists over 13 seasons.</p><p>The 6-32 Wizards are in the midst of a seven-game losing streak. They face the Suns on Thursday.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 12: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Washington Wizards handles the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 12, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Wizards considering Valanciunas trade before deadline

Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks says the team may have to sacrifice being competitive in...

<p>Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks says the team may have to sacrifice being competitive in the short term in order to achieve long-term success.</p><p>"We're building this, and we're building this for hopefully sustainable success," Marks told <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/01/11/sports/nets-gm-sean-marks-has-sights-set-on-draft-during-west-coast-trip/">Brian Lewis of The New York Post</a>. "That's what we want. We want to get to that.</p><p>"We're going to have to be systematic with some of the decisions we make. And they may not always be in line with winning the next game or putting the most talent out there."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Nets have lost four straight and now embark on a five-game Western Conference road trip, with their first two contests coming against the 9-28 Utah Jazz and 13-25 Portland Trail Blazers. Brooklyn ranks 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 13-25 record.</p><p>The team will be without key rotation pieces like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37752" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37752">D'Angelo Russell</a> (shin), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96032" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96032">Cam Thomas</a> (Hamstring), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37658" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37658">Cam Johnson</a> (ankle), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96135" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96135">Trendon Watford</a> (hamstring) for Sunday's contest against the Jazz.</p><p>Brooklyn holds a 34.8% chance to get a top-four pick in the 2025 draft, and an 8.3% shot at landing the first selection, according to <a href="https://www.tankathon.com/">Tankathon</a>. The Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors, and New Orleans Pelicans have a collective 42% odds of acquiring the top pick.</p><p>The Nets also have later selections from the Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets.</p><p>The franchise has not been involved in the lottery since 2010 when it selected Georgia Tech big man Derrick Favors.</p><p>"To be frank, you've still got to get a little lucky. We all know that," Marks said. "The hot-button topic has always been the draft. We all know we've still got to get lucky. At the end of the day, the ping-pong balls are going to drop a certain way."</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - APRIL 24: Alternate Governor Sean Marks of the Brooklyn Nets speaks while Jordi Fernandez is introduced as Brooklyn Nets new head coach during a press conference on April 24, 2024 at the Nets Training Center in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Marks: Nets must make decisions not 'in line' with winning games

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon returned Sunday in a 112-101 victory over the Dallas Maverick...

<p>Denver Nuggets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> returned Sunday in a 112-101 victory over the Dallas Mavericks after missing the past nine games with a calf strain.</p><p>Gordon contributed 13 points, six rebounds, two assists, and a block in 18 minutes of action. He was under a minutes restriction, according to <a href="https://x.com/BennettDurando/status/1878507964593512772">The Denver Post's Bennett Durando</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> led Denver with 21 points and 10 rebounds while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> added 19 points, 18 boards, and nine assists.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Mavericks' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a> put up a game-high 25 points and splashed in six treys.</p><p>Gordon was averaging 13.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists this campaign heading into Sunday.</p><p>The 29-year-old also missed 10 contests in November due to the same injury. He's been sidelined for 20 total games this season, with the Nuggets going 12-8 without him in the lineup.</p><p>Denver turned to a smaller lineup while Gordon recovered, shifting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60530" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60530">Michael Porter Jr.</a> down and starting Westbrook alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a>, and Jokic. Westbrook averaged 15.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.6 steals as a starter prior to Sunday. He and Jokic became the first teammates to record a triple-double in the same game multiple times in a season.</p><p>The Nuggets rank fourth in the Western Conference with a 23-15 record.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 25: Aaron Gordon #32 of the Denver Nuggets dribbles the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns on December 25, 2024 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Gordon returns in victory over Mavs after 9-game absence

Guard Tyler Herro believes the Miami Heat have regrouped since losing star teammate Jimmy Butler ...

<p>Guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> believes the Miami Heat have regrouped since losing star teammate Jimmy Butler to suspension.</p><p>"Just rallying around each other, making it about the guys that are here now, the guys that are in this locker room," Herro said following Miami's 119-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday, according to <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article298258428.html">Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald</a>.</p><p>"We've got enough, and that's all that matters. This is what we wanted to get back on the road, get away from all the chaos and come out here and compete and get back to who we are and get to our identity."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Herro scored 32 points Saturday to lead the Heat to their third straight win. Miami sits sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 20-17 record.</p><p>The Heat are 8-7 this season without Butler, who's serving a seven-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the organization due to an ongoing contract dispute. The Heat are exploring trades for the former All-Star but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181460" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181460">reportedly</a> expect him to return to Miami if they don't move him. Butler's suspension ends after Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers.</p><p>Herro has stepped up during the uncertainty, averaging 23.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists over the last five contests since Butler's ban began.</p><p>"Tyler's decision-making versus all the different schemes that teams are throwing at him are becoming better and more efficient," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "He's reading the game. In the moments of truth, he's stepping up for us when we really need him."</p><p>The Heat face the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday.</p>

PORTLAND, OREGON - JANUARY 11: Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat reacts after a three point basket during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on January 11, 2025 in Portland, Oregon.

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Heat's Herro focused on roster without Butler: 'We've got enough'

New Orleans Pelicans forward Herb Jones is out indefinitely after suffering a posterior labrum te...

<p>New Orleans Pelicans forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herb Jones</a> is out indefinitely after suffering a posterior labrum tear in his right shoulder, the team announced Friday.</p><p>Jones is averaging 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.9 steals in 20 games this campaign. </p><p>The 26-year-old previously missed 18 games at the beginning of the season because of a strain in the same shoulder and a partial tear in his rotator cuff.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Pelicans have been decimated with injuries as much of the rotation has been sidelined at various points of the season. Franchise cornerstone <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> recently returned from a 27-game absence because of a hamstring strain.</p><p>Jones made All-Defensive first-team honors last season, joining <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> as the first players to be named to the league's inaugural positionless edition of the team.</p><p>New Orleans signed the former Alabama product to a four-year, $54-million deal in 2023.</p><p>The Pelicans rank last in the Western Conference with a 7-31 record. They face the Philadelphia 76ers later Friday.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 03: Herbert Jones #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles the ball down court during the third quarter of an NBA game against the Washington Wizards at Smoothie King Center on January 03, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Pelicans' Jones out indefinitely with shoulder tear

The NBA postponed Thursday's contest between the Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Lakers at Cryp...

<p>The NBA postponed Thursday's contest between the Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena due to wildfires in the Los Angeles area.</p><p>The league will reschedule the game at a later date.</p><p>Lakers coach JJ Redick's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3183144" href="https://thescore.com/news/3183144">family</a> was among those who evacuated the area because of the fires.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wednesday's NHL contest between the Calgary Flames and the Los Angeles Kings was also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3183815" href="https://thescore.com/news/3183815">postponed</a>. The Lakers and Kings share Crypto.com Arena.</p><p>Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3183864" href="https://thescore.com/news/3183864">reportedly</a> missed Wednesday's loss to the Denver Nuggets to help family members escape the wildfires.</p><p>The wind-driven wildfires have killed five people and forced over 180,000 people to evacuate since starting Tuesday, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-fires-things-to-know-winds-f93d41dc901e352b63e86ab67ef7790e">The Associated Press</a>.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 27: A general overall aerial view of the Crypto.com Arena on November 27, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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NBA postpones Hornets-Lakers due to L.A. wildfires

Forward Satou Sabally is leaving the Dallas Wings in free agency, the two-time All-Star announced...

<p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/61704" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/61704">Satou Sabally</a> is leaving the Dallas Wings in free agency, the two-time All-Star announced Thursday.</p><p>"I've already communicated with Dallas how grateful I am because they've made this a home for me for the past years, and I'm working with them together in finding a next home for me because ... I've already played my last game in Dallas," Sabally said, according to <a href="https://x.com/robertawbb/status/1877415061129506928">WNBA reporter Roberta Rodrigues</a>.</p><p>Sabally averaged 17.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.3 steals last season, her fourth campaign with the Wings. She earned the Most Improved Player award and an All-WNBA first-team nod in 2023.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 26-year-old said she'd like to play with her sister Nyara "in the future," according to <a href="https://x.com/GeoffJMags/status/1877415070847660365">Geoff Magliocchetti of Sports Illustrated</a>. Her sister won a championship with the New York Liberty in October.</p><p>The Wings drafted Sabally out of Oregon with the No. 2 pick in 2020. Dallas holds the No. 1 selection in the 2025 draft after finishing with a 31-49 record over the past two seasons.</p><p>Dallas brought in Curt Miller as the team's executive vice president and general manager and hired USC assistant Chris Koclanes as head coach over the offseason.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 24: Satou Sabally #0 of the Dallas Wings looks on during the game against the Las Vegas Aces during round two game one of the 2023 WNBA Playoffs on September 24, 2023 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE

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Satou Sabally leaving Wings: 'Played my last game in Dallas'

Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham is drawing inspiration from a franchise legend to make his ...

<p>Detroit Pistons guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> is drawing inspiration from a franchise legend to make his mark on the franchise.</p><p>The 23-year-old said he wants to establish his own run of success as the Pistons' lead guard, similar to five-time All-Star Chauncey Billups.</p><p>"I would watch (Billups) clips. To see that team, the history of the organization," Cunningham said, according to <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/cade-cunningham-has-taken-on-the-challenge-of-being-detroits-franchise-player-i-would-love-to-have-my-own-chapter-165922060.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly90LmNvLw&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAC84kGbxNH3pUy7BT41Z9FrrBzAcqfZRujqywPIYEzohxPvq3IPuSnCcM4buAhcDQdEQGx12VVGG3P7O_OepnzV8Qw9Ps101bF4DVn7NQgT3Fg7wBEwJ1xTQ6LWQj-oFMK0hl-cO8wAi4pSXA_yiFU8ovg3RnJvj8GCggyfXLcpK">Vincent Goodwill of Yahoo Sports</a>. "I would love to have my own chapter."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Billups, who led the Pistons to their last title in 2004, called Cunningham an All-Star. </p><p>"The game has slowed down for him, and when I say that, I always mean in the mind," Billups said.</p><p>Cunningham has led the Pistons to a 19-18 record, helping Detroit reach over .500 this late in the campaign for the first time since 2018-19. He's averaging 24 points, 9.3 assists, and 6.6 rebounds per game this season.</p><p>Detroit already surpassed its win total from last year, when it went 14-68. The Pistons tied an NBA record with a 28-game losing streak in 2023-24.</p><p>Cunningham, who played 62 contests last season, said he wants "to be a part of changing" the tough times and bad basketball that has plagued the franchise in recent history.</p><p>At five seasons, the Pistons are tied with the San Antonio Spurs for the second-longest active postseason drought. Detroit was swept in the first round by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2019 in its last playoff appearance.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 08: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons dribbles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets during the third quarter at Barclays Center on January 08, 2025 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City.

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Cade inspired by Billups to make 'own chapter' with Pistons

Kawhi Leonard is stepping away from the Clippers to help members of his family that had to evacua...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> is stepping away from the Clippers to help members of his family that had to evacuate due to wildfires in the Los Angeles area, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1877083216244252723">NBA insider Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>The Clippers have ruled out Leonard for Wednesday's road contest against the Denver Nuggets due to personal reasons. </p><p>The next game scheduled in Los Angeles is Thursday when the Lakers host the Charlotte Hornets. The Clippers next home game is a meeting with the Hornets on Jan. 11.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Leonard made his season debut earlier in January after being out due to knee inflammation. He's averaged 10 points and 2.5 rebounds in two games.</p><p>At least 70,000 people have been ordered to evacuate the region as three significant blazes have taken ahold of the city, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-southern-california-santa-ana-winds-b565a3bd043d6444820f1571b2307bf1">The Associated Press' Jaimie Ding, Christopher Weber, and Julie Watson</a>.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 06: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers looks on against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first quarter at Target Center on January 06, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Report: Kawhi away from Clippers as family evacuated due to L.A. wildfires

The Miami Heat have set the asking price for Jimmy Butler.  The franchise prefers one or multiple...

<p>The Miami Heat have set the asking price for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>.</p><p>The franchise prefers one or multiple quality players that can help the team remain competitive this season, according to <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article298117768.html">The Miami Herald's Anthony Chiang and Barry Jackson</a>.</p><p>The Heat also don't want to take back long-term contracts that could obstruct the team's cap space for the 2026 offseason, unless it's for an All-Star level talent. They covet draft capital as well, as they only have one trade-eligible first-round pick.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Miami has discussed Butler trades with several teams but is not strongly considering any presented offer, a source told Chiang and Jackson.</p><p>Butler is in the midst of a seven-game suspension for detrimental conduct. He's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181460" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181460">reportedly</a> expected to return to Miami if he isn't traded by the time his suspension ends after the Heat's contest against the Los Angeles Lakers on Jan. 15. However, the franchise will likely continue to listen to offers until the trade deadline in February.</p><p>The 35-year-old reportedly plans to decline his $52.4-million player option this offseason. He has the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and Phoenix Suns among his preferred destinations but has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3182556" href="https://thescore.com/news/3182556">advised</a> the Memphis Grizzlies not to trade for him.</p><p>Butler is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists through 22 games this season.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 20: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat controls the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Kaseya Center on December 20, 2024 in Miami, Florida. <<enter caption here>> during the second half at Kaseya Center on December 04, 2024 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: Heat prefer impact player over long-term deals for Butler

Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic has faith his team will soon end its plunge toward the Eastern Conf...

<p>Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic has faith his team will soon end its plunge toward the Eastern Conference basement, though he admits Toronto's play needs to greatly improve.</p><p>"(It's the) middle of (a) long season. It's guys coming back from injuries, guys being without rhythm, guys not playing together," Rajakovic said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6044860/2025/01/08/raptors-coach-darko-rajakovic-pressure/">The Athletic's Eric Koreen</a>. "I don't want any of those to sound like excuses. We've got to be much better in all of those areas. But at the same time, we work hard, and I believe that we're gonna get out of this slump, and I think we're gonna be able to play much higher level basketball than we showed."</p><p>The Raptors sit second from the bottom in the East with an 8-28 record. They've won once in 14 outings, including an 11-game losing skid.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto has largely been without its main starting lineup in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93852" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93852">Immanuel Quickley</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110231" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110231">Gradey Dick</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69533" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69533">RJ Barrett</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37800" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37800">Jakob Poeltl</a>. The five-player unit has <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/lineups/advanced?slug=advanced&amp;TeamID=1610612761">produced</a> a negative-30.1 net rating in 15 minutes, including in its first substantial time together Monday against the Milwaukee Bucks.</p><p>"We were not connected," Rajakovic said of the team's 128-104 loss to the Bucks. "We didn't have enough fight over the course of the game. ... There was fight, there was intention behind it, and we were not able to sustain it. So, we'll need more sample size. We need more guys to play together, to find the rhythm together."</p><p>The team's lack of connection can be pinned on injuries. Quickley missed 30 games due to elbow and hip ailments, while Barnes was sidelined for 11 contests after suffering an orbital fracture. Veterans like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2041" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2041">Kelly Olynyk</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52805" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52805">Bruce Brown</a> made their season debuts in December.</p><p>As a result, 11 players have logged more than 400 minutes for Toronto. Even with his full lineup available, Rajakovic leaned on an 11-player rotation.</p><p>The Raptors face the New York Knicks on Wednesday.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - JANUARY 01: Head Coach Darko Rajakovic of the Toronto Raptors looks on during the game on January 1, 2025 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Darko: Reeling Raptors have 'to be much better'

UCLA head coach Mick Cronin ripped into his team's effort and demeanor following Tuesday's 94-75 ...

<p>UCLA head coach Mick Cronin ripped into his team's effort and demeanor following Tuesday's 94-75 blowout loss to No. 24 Michigan.</p><p>"Obviously, they shot the ball well, but we're soft," Cronin said to open his postgame press conference, according to <a href="https://x.com/RealTonyGarcia/status/1876887137808785715">Tony Garcia of The Detroit Free Press</a>. "We're too soft to play hard enough. We can't get an offensive rebound. ... We finally do get a stop, and we can't get a defensive rebound."</p><p>Cronin added: "Don't tell me you want to win."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mick Cronin went OFF on his players following their loss to Michigan 😳<br><br>“We’re soft… Every day, I have more passion and energy in practice than anybody else. I’m tired of it. It’s a joke… The truth of it is, it’s really hard to coach guys who are delusional” <a href="https://t.co/abGQdPkfQN">pic.twitter.com/abGQdPkfQN</a></p>— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheFieldOf68/status/1876893081175253197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The No. 22 Bruins have dropped their last two contests to Big Ten opponents, losing to unranked Nebraska earlier in January. Cronin said he's looking for players who "will play hard enough to win" a conference game.</p><p>The veteran coach added he's tired of motivating his team at this point in the campaign.</p><p>"I have to run on the court to get guys to play hard. It's crazy, and it's every day. I'm tired of it. I have the most energy of anybody in practice every day," Cronin said. "I'm upset with everybody in that locker room, my assistant coaches and my players. I don't need to do anything. I've got 500 wins, and I'm 53. You'd think I'm coaching the Lakers."</p><p>In his sixth season with UCLA, Cronin owns a 126-57 record with the Bruins. He's led the school to March Madness three straight years, including a Final Four appearance in 2021.</p><p>"It's really hard to coach people that are delusional," Cronin said. "The hungry dog gets the bone. We've got guys who think they're way better than they are. They're nice kids, but they're completely delusional about who they are. The team that's mind is on the right stuff and is hungry to win in conference play is the team that's probably going to win. Right now, we're far. If this wasn't the humble pie they needed, then I don't know."</p><p>UCLA faces Maryland on Friday.</p>

Los Angeles, CA - January 07: Head coach Mick Cronin of the UCLA Bruins reacts against the Michigan Wolverines in the first half of a Men's NCAA basketball game at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.

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UCLA's Cronin calls team soft: 'I'm upset with everybody'

Head coach Steve Kerr said postgame Tuesday that the Golden State Warriors aren't the most confid...

<p>Head coach Steve Kerr said postgame Tuesday that the Golden State Warriors aren't the most confident group amid another cold spell.</p><p>"I expected better energy," Kerr said following the Warriors' 114-98 home loss to the Miami Heat, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43330825/deflated-warriors-left-searching-again-loss-heat">ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk</a>. "I think we're suffering from a crisis of confidence right now, frankly. You can see it. You can feel it. I don't mind missed shots, but I mind when missed shots affect the defense and the attitude.</p><p>"We feel deflated right now. And there's no room for feeling sorry for ourselves in the NBA, in life in general. We can't let disappointment dictate our approach to the game. We have to do the opposite. We have to bring more fire. We have to outcompete our opponents when things aren't going our way. And that was what was most disappointing tonight, was I just felt like everybody was down and we didn't have a competitive spirit. And if you don't have that, you've got nothing."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Golden State has dropped 15 of its last 21 contests after starting the season 12-3. The club has endured three losing streaks of at least three games during the skid.</p><p>The Warriors struggled from the field Tuesday, shooting 40.8% while connecting on 14 of their 50 three-point attempts (28%). <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a> recorded a team-high 31 points, and center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110259" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110259">Trayce Jackson-Davis</a> added 19. No other Warriors player scored more than 11 points.</p><p>"There's a lot wrong, but what are you going to do about it," Curry said, per Youngmisuk. "We have to dig deep, figure it out, believe that we are a good team. Got to stop talking about it and around it and just fight our way through it."</p><p>Kerr said Tuesday that his star guard is "struggling with the emotion of (the team) not being competitive right now," according to <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1876864986137415842">The Athletic's Anthony Slater</a>.</p><p>Curry <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3175268" href="https://thescore.com/news/3175268">called</a> the Warriors "mid" last week after a loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, and he recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3170223" href="https://thescore.com/news/3170223">admitted</a> that the end of his illustrious 16-year career "is near." However, Golden State is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3152102" href="https://thescore.com/news/3152102">reportedly</a> looking around the trade market for a second star to pair with the 36-year-old.</p><p>The Warriors face the Detroit Pistons on the road Thursday.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 05: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors pats Stephen Curry #30 on the back after being substituted out against the Sacramento Kings in the second quarter at Chase Center on January 05, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Kerr: Warriors 'suffering from a crisis of confidence'

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson returned to the lineup in Tuesday's 104-97 loss to t...

<p>New Orleans Pelicans forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> returned to the lineup in Tuesday's 104-97 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>Head coach Willie Green said pregame that Williamson would be on a minutes restriction, but the 2019 first overall pick was in the starting five and managed to play 28 minutes. Williamson contributed 22 points, six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46143" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46143">Dejounte Murray</a> led all Pelicans scorers with 29 points. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> dropped a game-high 32 points for the Timberwolves.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The two-time All-Star missed the previous 27 games due to a hamstring strain. The Pelicans went 4-23 over that stretch but won their last two contests prior to Tuesday's action.</p><p>The 24-year-old was averaging 22.7 points, eight rebounds, and 5.3 assists in his six games this campaign heading into Tuesday.</p><p>New Orleans remains without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44931" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44931">Brandon Ingram</a>, who's missed the last 13 contests due to an ankle sprain. The franchise is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3175361" href="https://thescore.com/news/3175361">reportedly</a> prioritizing trading the 27-year-old by the Feb. 6 trade deadline.</p><p>The Pelicans have been beset by injuries, as key rotation pieces including Williamson, Ingram, Murray, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2562" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2562">CJ McCollum</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96120">Trey Murphy III</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herb Jones</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96124" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96124">Jose Alvarado</a> have missed multiple games.</p><p>New Orleans ranks last in the Western Conference with a 7-30 record following Tuesday's defeat.</p>

PORTLAND, OR - OCTOBER 25: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans smiles during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 25, 2024 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Zion returns from 27-game absence in loss to T-Wolves

Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin are joining journalist and sideline reporter Taylor Rooks for Ama...

<p>Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin are joining journalist and sideline reporter Taylor Rooks for Amazon's NBA studio coverage beginning in the 2025-26 season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEiC7NQRbrJ/?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/DEiC7NQRbrJ/?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>"We're really excited about the opportunity to build a show from the ground up. That is for the basketball fan, that is entertaining, that is informative, that is different," Rooks told <a href="https://frontofficesports.com/taylor-rooks-on-amazon-nba-plan-we-really-believe-in-going-big/">Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports</a>.</p><p>"I am excited to join the Amazon family and honored to be a part of its NBA coverage," Nowitzki said. "I have always wanted to remain close to the game that I love, and building something new alongside this talented crew is an experience I look forward to. I'm extremely thankful for the opportunity and cannot wait to get started."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Nowitzki ranks sixth on the league's all-time scoring list. He won an MVP in 2007 and a title in 2011 across 21 seasons in the Association.</p><p>"I have been incredibly impressed with Amazon's NFL programming for Thursday Night Football, and my conversations with the team around the NBA partnership have been equally inspiring," Griffin said.</p><p>Griffin is a six-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year. He holds career averages of 19 points, eight rebounds, and four assists over 13 seasons. He retired in April 2024.</p><p>Rooks appears on Amazon's broadcast of Thursday Night Football. She also works with Bleacher Report and TNT but will solely work for Amazon following the conclusion of this NBA season.</p><p>Amazon and the NBA reached an 11-year streaming deal in July. Prime Video will begin by streaming 66 regular-season games, as well as NBA Cup and playoff contests.</p><p>"We want to create a product that everybody wants to be a part of," Rooks said. "That’s appointment viewing. That builds an NBA community."</p>

DALLAS, TX - NOVEMBER 11: Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks posts up against Blake Griffin #32 of the Los Angeles Clippers on November 11, 2015 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2015 NBAE

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Nowitzki, Griffin joining Rooks for Amazon's NBA coverage

Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga suffered an ankle sprain in Saturday's 121-113 vic...

<p>Golden State Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> suffered an ankle sprain in Saturday's 121-113 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies and is expected to miss at least three weeks, the team <a href="https://x.com/WarriorsPR/status/1876054397685481804">announced</a> Sunday.</p><p>"It's not going to be a day-to-day thing," Kerr said Saturday after the loss, per <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1875757769703481748">The Athletic's Anthony Slater</a>.</p><p>Kuminga underwent an MRI to determine the injury's severity, according to<a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1875757769703481748"> Slater.</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"JK has been playing the best basketball of his career," Kerr said, per <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1875758671801806930">Slater</a>. "We're going to miss him. But Kyle (Anderson) will fill in well."</p><p>Kuminga suffered the injury toward the end of the first half after contesting a layup from Grizzlies forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102784" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102784">Jake LaRavia</a>. The Warriors ruled out Kuminga for the remainder of the contest after he recorded 13 points, two rebounds, and two assists in 15 minutes.</p><p>The Warriors were also without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a>, who sat Saturday due to knee injury management.</p><p>Kuminga ranks second on the team in scoring with 16.9 points per game. He's played primarily off the bench, starting 10 out of 32 contests.</p><p>The 22-year-old is in the final season of his rookie contract. The Congolese forward couldn't agree to terms on an extension prior to the beginning of the season.</p><p>The Warriors improved to 18-16 with the victory. They face the Sacramento Kings on the second night of a back-to-back Sunday.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 04: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball against the Memphis Grizzlies during the first half at Chase Center on January 04, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Warriors' Kuminga out at least 3 weeks with ankle sprain

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Donald Higney

Basketball News Editor

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Joseph Luca Casciaro

News Editor

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