New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson has been diagnosed with a left hamstring strain, the te...

<p>New Orleans Pelicans star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> has been diagnosed with a left hamstring strain, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>The 25-year-old will miss at least 7-10 days with the injury.</p><p>It's the first setback of the season for Williamson, who has struggled to stay healthy since New Orleans drafted him first overall in 2019. The Duke product has played more than 30 games in a single campaign just twice in seven NBA seasons, and missed two months early in 2024-25 with a hamstring strain in the same leg. During his 27-game absence last year, the Pelicans went 4-23.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>New Orleans likely cannot afford another lengthy stretch without the two-time All-Star after an 0-6 start to this season. The team sent its 2026 first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks with no protections at this year's draft in order to trade up and select center Derik Queen 13th overall.</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - OCTOBER 22: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on October 22, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Zion out at least 7-10 days with strained hamstring

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland will make his first appearance of the season Wednesday a...

<p>Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland will make his first appearance of the season Wednesday against the Philadelphia 76ers, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1985768656358220138">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Garland missed the first seven games of the year recovering from offseason surgery on his big toe.</p><p>The two-time All-Star was Cleveland's second-leading scorer last season with 20.6 points per game. He also led the team in assists, averaging 6.7 over 75 starts.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Cavaliers have felt Garland's absence in their offense. Kenny Atkinson's squad topped the league in offensive efficiency last season, scoring 121 points per 100 possessions. However, the team has failed to match that pace in 2025-26, posting a 111.3 offensive rating through seven games. That ranks as the NBA's fifth-worst mark, ahead of only the New Orleans Pelicans, Indiana Pacers, Washington Wizards, and Dallas Mavericks - all of whom share a combined four wins.</p><p>Garland initially suffered his toe injury in March but didn't miss extended time during the final stretch of the regular season. However, he re-aggravated the injury in Game 2 of Cleveland's first-round series versus the Miami Heat and missed the next four playoff contests. He returned in Game 3 of the second round against the Indiana Pacers but was noticeably limited in his movement as Indiana won the series in five games.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 18: Darius Garland #10 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Clippers at Intuit Dome on March 18, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Report: Garland to make season debut vs. 76ers

Russell Westbrook's departure from the Denver Nuggets apparently wasn't as amicable as previously...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a>'s departure from the Denver Nuggets apparently wasn't as amicable as previously assumed.</p><p>The nine-time All-Star and former MVP had a productive 2024-25 campaign in Denver and could have returned to the Western Conference contenders this season with a $3.5-million player option. Instead, he elected to become a free agent and eventually signed a similar one-year deal with the Sacramento Kings worth $3.6 million.</p><p>Following Sacramento's 130-124 loss to his former team Monday, Westbrook shed light on the decision and said he refused to exercise his option because the Nuggets didn't want him to return.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The truth is that they didn't want me back. It ain't up to me," the Kings guard said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/BennettDurando/status/1985574252137898151">The Denver Post's Bennett Durando</a>, adding that the Nuggets specifically told him not to pick up his option. "God always has a plan. Be patient. Not up to me. They don't want me. That's OK. Somebody else do."</p><p>Westbrook registered 13.3 points and 6.1 assists per game in Denver, both of which were improvements from his season prior with the Los Angeles Clippers. He also started 36 of his 75 appearances, his most in a campaign since he was last a full-time starter in 2021-22 with the Los Angeles Lakers.</p><p>The 37-year-old was Denver's first option off the bench during its seven-game, second-round series against the eventual NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Westbrook put up 9.9 points on 22.7 minutes per game in the series but struggled with his efficiency, shooting 34.8% from the field and 21.9% (7-of-32) from deep.</p><p>Westbrook clarified that he had no issue with the Nuggets' fans, who welcomed him back with a standing ovation during a video tribute in the first quarter.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ball Arena with the tribute to Russell Westbrook in his welcome back to Denver 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/UqDLNzYYs4">pic.twitter.com/UqDLNzYYs4</a></p>— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) <a href="https://twitter.com/DNVR_Nuggets/status/1985533020431143126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"The fans, I mean, since I've been here, they were great. Always gave me great energy," he said. "I gave them the same. I came out, competed at a high level every night. I was grateful for them for the ovation, so I appreciate that."</p><p>Westbrook started for the Kings in the loss and scored a team-high 26 points to go with 12 rebounds and six assists. He shot 10-of-17 from the floor, 3-of-6 from three, and 3-of-3 from the free-throw line.</p>

DENVER , CO - NOVEMBER 3: Russell Westbrook (18) of the Sacramento Kings reacts to being whistled for a charge call on Jamal Murray (27) of the Denver Nuggets during the fourth quarter of the Nuggets' 130-124 win at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Monday, November 3, 2025.

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Westbrook: Nuggets didn't want me back, said not to exercise option

LeBron James is picking up the pen again.  The Los Angeles Lakers star announced Thursday that he...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> is picking up the pen again.</p><p>The Los Angeles Lakers star announced Thursday that he is publishing a new children's book titled "Happy Spooky Halloween," set for release in July 2026.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQcVs26gd-D/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQcVs26gd-D/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQcVs26gd-D/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by 👑 (@kingjames)</a></p>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>It's the fourth children's picture book James has authored since 2020. The four-time NBA champion wrote "I Promise" and its sequel "I Am More Than" and co-authored "We Are Family" with Andrea Williams.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>James, who calls Halloween his favorite holiday, is known for donning elaborate costumes even with the NBA season in full swing. Though he kept it simple on the road last year with a <a href="https://x.com/Lakers/status/1852470421192413524">Ghostface</a> mask from the "Scream" movies, the NBA's all-time leading scorer has dressed up as Pennywise the Dancing Clown, Beetlejuice, and Freddy Krueger, among several other popular fictional characters.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVrhYliLqvu/?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/CVrhYliLqvu/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewbox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVrhYliLqvu/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by 👑 (@kingjames)</a></p>
</div></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>However, this year marks the first time in James' 23 NBA seasons that he will be out due to injury during Halloween. The 40-year-old has yet to play this season while recovering from sciatica, though he and the Lakers are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3369744" href="https://thescore.com/news/3369744">reportedly</a> hopeful of a return sometime in mid-November.</p>

EL SEGUNDO, CA - OCTOBER 08: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers smiles during media day on October 08, 2025 at UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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LeBron writing Halloween-themed children's book

Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young left Wednesday's game against the Brooklyn Nets due to a right knee...

<p>Atlanta Hawks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60633" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60633">Trae Young</a> left Wednesday's game against the Brooklyn Nets due to a right knee sprain, the team announced.</p><p>Young suffered the injury in the opening quarter when Hawks teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110245" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110245">Mouhamed Gueye</a> inadvertently fell on his leg. Young then spoke to head coach Quin Snyder on the sideline before leaving the game for good.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Trae Young went to the locker room after an apparent leg injury on this play. <a href="https://t.co/OtAeoQegFf">pic.twitter.com/OtAeoQegFf</a></p>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1983691341532926071?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Young scored six points in seven minutes before departing, adding a rebound and an assist apiece.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Snyder said postgame that Young appears to have avoided any damage to his ACL.</p><p>"I think the most important thing is that it is not his ACL," the Hawks coach said, courtesy of <a href="https://twitter.com/BTRowland/status/1983724006391083130">Brad Rowland of Locked On Hawks</a>. "He's going to get an MRI tonight or tomorrow and make a determination from there. So, not sure how long or what respect, but something that he's going to hopefully be back from whenever possible.</p><p>"He didn't want to come out of the game. He's such a competitor. He takes a lot of pride in being available. There's been a lot of times in the time that we've been together where he's banged up and he goes out and plays, and you saw that tonight, too. He tried to stay in there."</p><p>In four games entering Wednesday, the 27-year-old guard averaged 20.8 points, 9.5 assists, 2.3 rebounds, and one steal. However, he's struggled to find his 3-point shot, averaging 19.2% on 6.5 attempts per contest. He did not attempt a three during his brief stint Wednesday.</p>

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 27: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks exits the court after a game against the Chicago Bulls on October 27, 2025 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

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Trae exits vs. Nets with sprained knee

Shohei Ohtani commended Toronto Blue Jays fans for their creative trash talk in Game 1 of the Wor...

<p>Shohei Ohtani commended Toronto Blue Jays fans for their creative trash talk in Game 1 of the World Series - and the Los Angeles Dodgers phenom wasn't the only one who enjoyed it.</p><p>"It was a really great chant, and my wife really appreciated it," the Japanese superstar said Sunday via interpreter Will Ireton.</p><p>With Toronto leading 11-4 in the ninth inning of Friday's World Series opener, a sold out crowd at the Rogers Center suddenly broke out into "We don't need you" chant as Ohtani stepped to the plate. The taunts were in reference to the dramatic December 2023 saga of Ohtani's free agency, when many around baseball erroneously believed he was on a plane bound for Toronto before he signed a record-breaking 10-year, $700-million deal with the Dodgers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Blue Jays faithful with the "We don't need you" chant to Shohei Ohtani <a href="https://t.co/VaIyBnV92b">pic.twitter.com/VaIyBnV92b</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1981924872121913653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Los Angeles' manager Dave Roberts <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3378255" href="https://thescore.com/news/3378255">said</a> ahead of Saturday's Game 2 that he didn't believe Ohtani understood the chants in the moment while focused in the batter's box. However, the skipper added that Ohtani likely understood why the Toronto crowd was booing him throughout the encounter.</p><p>Despite the heavy loss, Ohtani launched the first World Series home run of his career with his only hit in Game 1. And though he went 1-for-4 again in Game 2, he was the last Dodger to cross the plate in their 5-1 win following Will Smith's eighth-inning RBI.</p><p>Ohtani could get the last laugh without having to return to Toronto. The Dodgers could secure a second straight World Series title if they sweep Games 3-5 - all of which will be held in L.A.</p>

TORONTO, ON - October 25 - Los Angeles Dodgers Shohei Ohtani (17) is pictured as he warms up ahead of game two of the World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers in Toronto. Lance McMillan/Toronto StarOctober-25-2025

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Ohtani: My wife appreciated 'We don't need you' chant

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a career-high 55 points, and the Oklahoma City Thunder claimed a 1...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> scored a career-high 55 points, and the Oklahoma City Thunder claimed a 141-135 double-overtime victory over the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Thursday.</p><p>The meeting was the first between the two sides since they squared off in the Finals in June.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander outdid his previous career-best of 54 points, which he set earlier this year in January in a win over the Utah Jazz.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"He is thinking constantly about how he can get better," Oklahoma City's head coach Mark Daigneault said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/NickAGallo/status/1981561607105773878">team reporter Nick Gallo</a>. "He's constantly self reflecting. He's constantly self critical. ... That mindset speaks to a level of humility that you need in competition."</p><p>It was a second straight marathon victory for Oklahoma City, which also needed two overtime frames to topple the Houston Rockets on Tuesday. No team in NBA history had ever started its season with back-to-back double-overtime contests.</p><p>The matchup didn't come without some late controversy, however. Following a layup by Obi Toppin with 22.5 seconds left that cut the Thunder's lead to four, the Pacers forward appeared to make a clean steal on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a>'s inbound pass under the basket. But officials ruled that Daigneault called a timeout just in time, allowing the defending champions to retain possession.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Obi Toppin scores, steals the inbound pass, only to realize that Mark Daigneault saved his team with a great call for a timeout miliseconds prior (with replays) <a href="https://t.co/ag3HCck7au">pic.twitter.com/ag3HCck7au</a></p>— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrBuckBuckNBA/status/1981555666776183100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle opted not to express his frustration with the play in his postgame comments.</p><p>"I'm not talking about the refs," Carlisle said, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/TonyREast/status/1981562027522085340">Tony East of AllPacers</a>. "If I talk about the refs, I'll be fined an exorbitant amount of money."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102759" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102759">Bennedict Mathurin</a> led Indiana with 36 points in the Pacers' first game of the new season. He also grabbed 11 rebounds before fouling out less than a minute into the second overtime period. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> added 32 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, and a steal.</p><p>Indiana is awaiting an update on starting guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102757" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102757">Andrew Nembhard</a>. Carlisle said postgame that the 25-year-old will undergo testing after sustaining a left shoulder injury that limited him to the first half. The Pacers are already without Nembhard's usual backcourt partner, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>, who's still recovering from the torn Achilles he suffered in Game 7 of the Finals.</p><p>"This is gonna potentially present some big challenges," Carlisle said, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/RomeovilleKid/status/1981561370588925978">The Athletic's James Boyd</a>.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander made 15-of-31 shots from the floor. Twenty-three of his 55 points came at the free-throw line, as the teams combined for 91 attempts at the charity stripe. The stoppages may have helped the reigning MVP, who needed a breather with a minute left in the second overtime.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shai is EXHAUSTED after back-to-back 2OT games 😭 <a href="https://t.co/kbV8poSimm">pic.twitter.com/kbV8poSimm</a></p>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1981555321236521311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Gilgeous-Alexander will have Friday off before facing the Hawks on Saturday in Atlanta. The Pacers will visit the Memphis Grizzlies the same evening.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 23: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket during the game against the Indiana Pacers on October 23, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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SGA's career-high 55 leads Thunder past Pacers in grueling Finals rematch

The Dallas Wings are targeting South Florida's Jose Fernandez to be the WNBA franchise's next hea...

<p>The Dallas Wings are targeting South Florida's Jose Fernandez to be the WNBA franchise's next head coach, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6744419/2025/10/23/dallas-wings-jose-fernandez-coach-hire/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=wbbtw&amp;source=twitterhq">Ben Pickman of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>Fernandez, 53, has been in charge of the Bulls' women's basketball program since 2000-01, managing a cumulative 485-317 record over 25 seasons. He's taken South Florida to 10 NCAA Tournaments, including a run of four straight appearances from 2015-18. Fernandez also helped the school capture two AAC Tournament titles in the last five seasons, including last year's campaign, which ended with a first-round loss to Tennessee during March Madness.</p><p>South Florida's CEO of athletics Rob Higgins confirmed Thursday that Fernandez was leaving the school "to pursue an opportunity to coach at the next level in the WNBA" but did not specify a team. Dallas has yet to come to an official agreement with Fernandez, reports Pickman, citing a source.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Wings are seeking a new face behind the bench to replace Chris Koclanes, whom they fired in September after the team went 10-34 in his debut season. Koclanes also made the jump to the WNBA from women's college basketball, having been an assistant on Lindsay Gottlieb's coaching staff at USC, but didn't have previous head coaching experience. He did, however, have prior stints in the WNBA as a defensive coordinator for the Connecticut Sun and Los Angeles Sparks.</p>

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 15: Head coach Jose Fernandez of the South Florida Bulls communicates with players during the first quarter of an NCAA women's basketball game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Colonial Life Arena on December 15, 2024 in Columbia, South Carolina. The South Carolina Gamecocks won 78-62.

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Report: Wings nearing deal to hire longtime USF coach Fernandez

The Indiana Pacers and forward Aaron Nesmith reached an agreement Monday on a two-year, $40.4-mil...

<p>The Indiana Pacers and forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93847" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93847">Aaron Nesmith</a> reached an agreement Monday on a two-year, $40.4-million contract extension, his agent told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1980454448523792647">Shams Charania of ESPN</a>.</p><p>Nesmith, whose contract was set to expire after the 2026-27 season, is now reportedly tied down through 2028-29.</p><p>The new deal also contains a trade kicker, Charania adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 26-year-old played a key role in Indiana's run to the Finals in June. After averaging 12 points and shooting 43.1% from three through 45 regular-season games, Nesmith improved to 12.7 points per contest and 49.2% from distance while starting all 23 playoff outings for the Pacers. His postseason 3-point percentage set a new record among players with at least 100 attempts in a single playoff, overtaking the 48.2% put up by Danny Green during the San Antonio Spurs' trip to the Finals in 2013.</p><p>Nesmith is entering his fourth campaign with the Pacers after spending the first two years of his career with the Boston Celtics. He's averaged 11.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while posting 47.3/40.2/83.3 shooting splits in 190 appearances with Indiana.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - MAY 13: Aaron Nesmith #23 of the Indiana Pacers reacts against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second quarter in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena on May 13, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Pacers extend Nesmith on 2-year, $40.4M deal

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ty Jerome will miss at least four weeks after suffering a high-grade calf...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53038" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53038">Ty Jerome</a> will miss at least four weeks after suffering a high-grade calf strain in the team's final preseason game against the Miami Heat on Friday.</p><p>Jerome's the latest addition to a growing list of Grizzlies players who will begin the regular season on the sidelines, joining <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121683" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121683">Zach Edey</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45655" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45655">Brandon Clarke</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102738" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102738">Scotty Pippen Jr.</a> </p><p>Memphis star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> also missed the entire preseason after the two-time All-Star sprained his ankle during a practice on Oct. 5. However, head coach Tuomas Iisalo said Monday that Morant is increasingly likely to play in Wednesday's season opener against the New Orleans Pelicans, according to <a href="https://x.com/MyMikeCheck/status/1980364282392129690">Michael Wallace of Grizzlies.com</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jerome signed a three-year, $28-million contract with the Grizzlies this summer as a free agent. The 28-year-old spent the last two seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers but is coming off a breakout campaign in which he averaged 12.5 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.1 steals in 70 games to finish third in Sixth Man of the Year voting.</p><p>With Jerome, Edey, Clarke, and Pippen all expected to miss extended time, Memphis could become the first team eligible for a hardship exception. The Grizzlies can sign an emergency replacement to a 10-day deal if the club rules out all four players for three consecutive contests, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1980403853674909833">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - OCTOBER 11: Ty Jerome #2 of the Memphis Grizzlies dribbles the ball during the game against the Atlanta Hawks during Preseason on October 11, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Jerome out at least 4 weeks with calf strain in another blow to Grizzlies

The San Francisco Giants are closing in on a deal to hire Tennessee's Tony Vitello as their manag...

<p>The San Francisco Giants are closing in on a deal to hire Tennessee's Tony Vitello as their manager, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6728952/2025/10/18/sf-giants-tony-vitello-manager/">The Athletic's Andrew Baggarly, Brittany Ghiroli, and Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>Vitello confirmed Saturday he's a candidate for San Francisco's managerial vacancy but said there was no agreement in place, according to the <a href="https://www.jacksonsun.com/story/sports/college/university-of-tennessee/other-sports/2025/10/18/tony-vitello-san-francisco-giants-manager-tennessee-baseball/86772519007/">Knoxville News Sentinel's Mike Wilson</a>.</p><p>A decision is expected to be made in the next 24-72 hours, reports <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1979642193565679927">Jeff Passan of ESPN</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Vitello could become the first skipper in MLB history to be hired from college baseball with no professional experience, according to <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1979642354438119870">Passan</a>.</p><p>The 47-year-old has been the head coach of the Tennessee men's baseball team since June 2017, amassing a 341-131 record over nine seasons. He led the program to its first College World Series title in 2024, following tournament appearances in 2021 and 2023.</p><p>Before Vitello's arrival, the Vols hadn't won more than 12 games in SEC play since going 13-15 in 2007. They've surpassed that mark in six seasons under Vitello, including the last five.</p><p>Vitello was an assistant and a recruiting coordinator at Arkansas for four campaigns before moving to Knoxville.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaabbl/players/19862" href="https://thescore.com/ncaabbl/players/19862">Gavin Kilen</a>, the Giants' No. 3 prospect, played under Vitello this past season before San Francisco drafted him 13th overall in July.</p><p>The Giants are searching for a new bench boss after firing Bob Melvin in September. San Francisco went 161-163 and failed to finish better than third in the NL West in Melvin's two seasons in charge.</p>

KNOXVILLE, TN - MAY 31: Tennessee Volunteers head coach Tony Vitello celebrates with Tennessee Volunteers catcher Cannon Peebles (5) during the NCAA Division I Regional Tournament baseball game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Cincinnati Bearcats on May 31, 2025, at Lindsey Nelson Stadium in Knoxville, TN.

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Report: Giants nearing deal to hire Tennessee's Vitello as manager

Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid will be available to make his preseason debut Friday a...

<p>Philadelphia 76ers star center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> will be available to make his preseason debut Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>The matchup is Philadelphia's final warmup before it opens its regular season Wednesday against the Boston Celtics.</p><p>Embiid, 31, hasn't played since February, when he was shut down for the final two months of the 2024-25 season because of a lingering issue with his left knee. The former MVP has also been recovering from arthroscopic surgery in April, though he said at media day on Sept. 26 that he was feeling "pretty good" following the procedure.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The seven-time All-Star has played just 58 combined regular-season games since 2023-24 because of issues with his left knee, for which he's undergone multiple surgeries since 2017. </p><p>In 19 appearances last season, he averaged 23.8 points - his worst scoring output since 2019-20 - as the 76ers went 24-58 and missed the playoffs. His 8.2 rebounds per game were his lowest mark since he tallied 7.8 per contest as a rookie in 2016-17.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 22: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers arrives to the arena before the game against the Brooklyn Nets on February 22, 2025 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Embiid to make preseason debut vs. Timberwolves

Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers put on a quarterback duel for the (old) ages.  Flacco, 40, bested th...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> put on a quarterback duel for the (old) ages.</p><p>Flacco, 40, bested the 41-year-old Rodgers as the Cincinnati Bengals pulled off a narrow 33-31 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday Night Football. Fans on social media couldn't help but commend both vets for turning back the clock.</p><p>Here are some of the greatest posts about Thursday's timeless thriller.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Joe Flacco wins the Unc Bowl! <a href="https://t.co/6hu60Uy9wL">pic.twitter.com/6hu60Uy9wL</a></p>— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLonFOX/status/1979027680008785999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">flacco and rodgers after putting on a show in the icy hot bowl <a href="https://t.co/sXnNMliOKe">https://t.co/sXnNMliOKe</a> <a href="https://t.co/OQF0HiOYyR">pic.twitter.com/OQF0HiOYyR</a></p>— ਮਨਵਿੰਦਰ (@LeJattJames) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeJattJames/status/1979028008292712538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">41-year old Aaron Rodgers and 40-year old Joe Flacco on a random Thursday night in October <a href="https://t.co/8T8UVgP5m1">pic.twitter.com/8T8UVgP5m1</a></p>— NFL Memes (@NFL_Memes) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL_Memes/status/1979015817422311606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers waking up tm: <a href="https://t.co/Q0QvzP6vEx">pic.twitter.com/Q0QvzP6vEx</a></p>— Sleeper (@SleeperHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/SleeperHQ/status/1979027352039338437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">They are calling this the best 40 year old QB duel ever<br><br>Joe Flacco:<br>342 YDS / 3 TDS / 108.6 RTG<br><br>Aaron Rodgers:<br>249 YDS / 4 TDS - 2 INTS / 103.7 RTG <a href="https://t.co/zUDQSkQ4ck">pic.twitter.com/zUDQSkQ4ck</a></p>— Joel Moran (@joelvmoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/joelvmoran/status/1979026869199507482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rodgers and Flacco tonight <a href="https://t.co/l9r31ZUWmu">pic.twitter.com/l9r31ZUWmu</a></p>— Shooter McGavin (@ShooterMcGavin_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShooterMcGavin_/status/1979024238930465081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Flacco and Rodgers after The Unc Bowl <a href="https://t.co/dYdFHQjwqs">pic.twitter.com/dYdFHQjwqs</a></p>— Games with Names (@gameswithnames) <a href="https://twitter.com/gameswithnames/status/1979026641645912402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"I told Aaron after the game, I don't think I've ever beat him."<br><br>Joe Flacco reflects on the TNF thriller win against the Steelers 😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/notthefakeSVP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@notthefakeSVP</a> <a href="https://t.co/dH6OC6sUT8">pic.twitter.com/dH6OC6sUT8</a></p>— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1979038561828540698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers on Madden when they first joined the league. <a href="https://t.co/uDecSDKsQH">pic.twitter.com/uDecSDKsQH</a></p>— Polymarket Football (@PolymarketBlitz) <a href="https://twitter.com/PolymarketBlitz/status/1979028769844109717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Flacco vs Rodgers <a href="https://t.co/HjEuvbi2Bc">pic.twitter.com/HjEuvbi2Bc</a></p>— Aaron Nagler (@AaronNagler) <a href="https://twitter.com/AaronNagler/status/1979026726224089407?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The 2025 Unc Bowl between Aaron Rodgers and Joe Flacco <a href="https://t.co/3x4yhLy0DI">pic.twitter.com/3x4yhLy0DI</a></p>— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) <a href="https://twitter.com/HaterReport_/status/1979031472842408425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bengals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bengals</a> QB Joe Flacco is trolling Aaron Rodgers via Instagram before the UNCbowl <a href="https://t.co/mwqLoLuRt4">pic.twitter.com/mwqLoLuRt4</a></p>— Howard Betta (@Gaige_returns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gaige_returns/status/1978512291852063190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">What an absolute game that was. <br><br>Two 40 year olds just turning the clock back and throwing it all around the park. <br><br>Sports are undefeated, nothing like it. <br><br>A perfect Primetime UNCtion. <br><br>Beautiful. <a href="https://t.co/Yt6w7O9KYg">pic.twitter.com/Yt6w7O9KYg</a></p>— Mikey O’ver (@MikeyOver1) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeyOver1/status/1979032549922951325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE UNCTION IS DELIVERING. <a href="https://t.co/L6Bwj3gYec">pic.twitter.com/L6Bwj3gYec</a></p>— Jovan (@jovan_deeb) <a href="https://twitter.com/jovan_deeb/status/1979023081210364038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Even baseball's Toronto Blue Jays got in on Thursday's old-man fun. Thanks to 41-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a>, they tied their American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners at 2-2. The veteran hurler threw five strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings and held the Mariners to two earned runs on three hits in his 500th career start between the regular season and postseason.</p>
<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Unc-tion did NOT disappoint 🫡 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WANTITALL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WANTITALL</a> <a href="https://t.co/0K7BxT52MD">pic.twitter.com/0K7BxT52MD</a></p>— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays/status/1979035463542354378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thursday marked the first time ever a 40+ year old starting pitcher (Max Scherzer) won in the MLB postseason and a 40+ year old starting QB (Joe Flacco) won in the NFL on the same day. <a href="https://t.co/5M2vdKgSbc">pic.twitter.com/5M2vdKgSbc</a></p>— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaSTATS/status/1979054236542349371?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Joe Flacco (40), Aaron Rodgers (41) &amp; Max Scherzer (41) delivered on Thursday night 👴 <a href="https://t.co/1WnmnrKcK4">pic.twitter.com/1WnmnrKcK4</a></p>— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportingnews/status/1979027560500543500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
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CINCINNATI, OHIO - OCTOBER 16: Aaron Rodgers #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers congratulates Joe Flacco #16 of the Cincinnati Bengals after the game at Paycor Stadium on October 16, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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'Unc Bowl' thriller: Best reactions to vintage Flacco vs. Rodgers duel

If expected success was the lone reason to watch an NBA team, only a handful of squads would make...

<p><em>If expected success was the lone reason to watch an NBA team, only a handful of squads would make for must-see TV. In a highlight-heavy world, even long shots provide plenty of entertainment. With that in mind, here's our ranking of how watchable all 30 teams are, culminating with the top 15.</em></p><p><em>Check out the bottom 15 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3348051" href="https://thescore.com/news/3348051">here</a>.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: 76ERS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-i9ssC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/i9ssC/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Whether or not the 76ers are an enjoyable watch depends on if they can stay healthy. On paper, Joel Embiid and Paul George are the perfect vets to complement their electric group of young guards, including rookie V.J. Edgecombe. But neither Embiid nor George have featured at all in preseason after offseason knee surgeries, suggesting Philadelphia will again have to rely on stopgap solutions that won't have the entertainment factor of their best possible lineups.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: PELICANS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-PKlNu" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/PKlNu/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Zion Williamson's court vision, power, and athleticism make him an explosive force in transition. Injuries haven't diminished his strengths in the half court either - Williamson can still attack one-on-one off the bounce, outmuscle opposing players in the post, and initiate the offense. Trey Murphy III has proven to be more than just a 3-and-D role player, while Herb Jones constantly wreaks havoc on the defensive end. For better or worse, there won't be a dull moment when Jordan Poole's on the floor.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: THUNDER (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-NBL3T" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/NBL3T/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>While the reigning champs' chemistry can lead to hilarious postgame moments, their play style can be a bit of a slog at times. With the ball in his hands, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's unmatched shiftiness makes him one of the most difficult scorers for defenders to contain, but his overt reliance on free throws - his league-leading 601 makes last season were 104 more than James Harden in second - is a tedious though undeniably effective strategy.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: GRIZZLIES (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-OTSkx" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/OTSkx/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Memphis isn't giving fans many reasons to tune in early on, but the Grizzlies will be a popular League Pass team once they have their full complement of players. Ja Morant isn't afraid to poster anybody or talk smack. Few centers have the sweet-shooting stroke and shot-blocking ability of Jaren Jackson Jr. His frontcourt partner, Zach Edey, is a behemoth at 7-foot-4 and didn't back down from anybody as a rookie last season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: CLIPPERS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9DgzV" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9DgzV/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Loads of eyes will be on this year's Clippers, who've surrounded Kawhi Leonard with a consortium of high-profile vets that are all hunting their first title. With personnel like James Harden, Bradley Beal, and Chris Paul, Tyronn Lue's squad could be among the NBA's most entertaining, but they could also be an incredibly frustrating aesthetic experience if their talent fails to mesh properly.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: PISTONS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9m82p" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9m82p/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>There's some real excitement in the Motor City after the Pistons snapped their six-year playoff drought last season. Cade Cunningham made the leap to All-NBA talent, punishing opposing guards in the post with his size advantage and developing pick-and-roll chemistry with Jalen Duren. Ausar Thompson is just as athletic as his twin brother, Amen, with the ability to handle the rock and force turnovers. Jaden Ivey boasts an explosive first step and an improving 3-point stroke.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: HAWKS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-pIm1T" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/pIm1T/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>The two-man game between Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis should be enough on its own to make the on-court product more entertaining than last season. The Hawks are also getting back dynamic young forward Jalen Johnson, who was having a breakout year before a torn shoulder labrum ended his season after 36 games. Factor in Dyson Daniels stealing every ball in his vicinity and Zaccharie Risacher building off a solid rookie year, and Atlanta should be fun to watch.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: KNICKS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-u5hYY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/u5hYY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns are two of the top offensive players at their respective positions. Brunson's an efficient three-level scorer who thrives in isolation and was dependable whenever the game was on the line. Meanwhile, Towns formed a deadly two-man tandem with Brunson, often rolling to the basket after setting a screen or popping out from beyond the arc. Josh Hart's constant hustle and OG Anunoby's perimeter defense always bring The Garden faithful to their feet.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: T-WOLVES (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bYsZf" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bYsZf/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>What's not to like about Anthony Edwards essentially guaranteeing a couple vicious posters every year? The high-flying guard hit career-best marks in scoring (27.6) and 3-point percentage (39.5%) in 2024-25, adding another dimension to his already wildly entertaining style. The Wolves also added another exciting young talent in 18-year-old Joan Beringer, a near-7-footer out of France who impressed in his Summer League debut by putting up seven blocks against the Pelicans.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: WARRIORS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-teODB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/teODB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Stephen Curry has delivered his share of signature moments over 16 seasons with the Warriors. No player has been more prolific from long distance than the 11-time All-Star. It's a sight to behold when Curry's dialed in, as he makes the game look effortless. Draymond Green is never too far away from the spotlight with his tenacious defense and tendency to agitate his foes. Jimmy Butler has taken a step back offensively, but he continues to be an impact defender.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: NUGGETS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ufkw6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ufkw6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>The Nuggets reloaded over the summer, and the roster's overall quality now arguably rivals that of the 2023 championship squad. But the core of what makes Denver so fun to spectate is Nikola Jokic, who we can expect to stupefy observers again after averaging a triple-double last season on 29.6 points per game. Posters from Christian Braun and Aaron Gordon, plus Jamal Murray's heroics in the clutch, only add to the Nuggets' aesthetic appeal.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: MAVERICKS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-akefq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/akefq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Dallas became appointment television when it won the Cooper Flagg sweepstakes. Flagg can do all sorts of things on any given night. Whether it's guarding multiple positions or protecting the rim, the Duke product is capable of taking over a game with his defense. Flagg is just as versatile on the offensive end as a three-level scorer and point forward. The Mavs also have no shortage of lob options between Flagg, Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: LAKERS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yaw2r" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yaw2r/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>LeBron James rubbed some the wrong way when his big "decision" tease amounted to an ad, but all eyes remain on the future Hall of Famer and whether 2025-26 will be his final NBA season. That's only part of what makes the Lakers a must-watch this year; jaw-dropping Luka Doncic highlights will be on the menu again, and the Slovenian should look even more comfortable after participating in a full camp with the team.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: ROCKETS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zj6NZ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zj6NZ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Kevin Durant is one of the greatest scorers in NBA history. The 37-year-old remains an elite three-level threat, so enjoy whatever is left of his career. It'll be fun to see how Durant meshes with the Rockets' young talent. Alperen Sengun is arguably the best passing big after Jokic, and Amen Thompson puts on a one-man show with his outstanding two-way play and freakish athleticism.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: SPURS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-7U6b6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/7U6b6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Victor Wembanyama spent 10 days at a Shaolin temple in China this offseason, is now officially listed at 7-foot-5, and recently brushed aside fellow giant Luke Kornet during a team scrimmage like he was made of paper. With a couple of NBA seasons under his belt, the French star's ongoing evolution continues to make him one of the most exciting talents to watch in the entire league - and, by extension, makes the Spurs must-see TV.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32835950/related

NBA Watchability Rankings: The top 15

Veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon announced his retirement from professional basketball Wednesday.  "...

<p>Veteran guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11101">Malcolm Brogdon</a> announced his retirement from professional basketball Wednesday.</p><p>"I am deeply grateful to have arrived to this point on my own terms and now to be able to reap the benefits of my career with my family and friends," he said in a statement, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1978549127085507036">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. "Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to all who have had a place in my journey."</p><p>Brogdon, 32, recently signed a camp deal with the New York Knicks and suited up for them in preseason. He was a strong candidate to make the team's final roster as a backup point guard to franchise star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Brogdon played nine NBA seasons, during which he represented five different franchises.</p><p>The Virginia product won Rookie of the Year for the 2016-17 season after getting drafted 36th overall to the Milwaukee Bucks. He averaged 10.2 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.8 rebounds with shooting splits of 45.7/40.4/86.5 in his debut campaign. He remains one of just three players picked in the second round to win Rookie of the Year, along with Terry Dischinger (1963) and Willis Reed (1965).</p><p>After three seasons apiece with the Bucks and Indiana Pacers, Brogdon was traded to the Boston Celtics ahead of the 2022-23 season. He won Sixth Man of the Year in his lone season in Boston, helping the club finish a game behind the Bucks at the top of the Eastern Conference.</p><p>He also played for the Portland Trail Blazers and Washington Wizards over the last two seasons. However, he missed substantial time due to multiple injuries.</p><p>Brogdon finishes his career with averages of 15.3 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds over 463 games.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 13: Malcom Brogdon #5 of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards during an NBA Preseason game on October 13, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Brogdon retires after 9 NBA seasons

The Sacramento Kings agreed to a deal with Russell Westbrook, the guard's agent told ESPN's Shams...

<p>The Sacramento Kings agreed to a deal with Russell Westbrook, the guard's agent told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1978493612875771982">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Wednesday.</p><p>Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star and former MVP, will officially sign the one-year, veteran's minimum deal Thursday, a source told <a href="https://twitter.com/James_HamNBA/status/1978504733003305381">ESPN 1320's James Ham</a>. Once finalized, the California native will join his seventh franchise ahead of his 18th NBA season.</p><p>The 36-year-old spent the 2024-25 campaign with the Denver Nuggets, averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds while starting in 36 of 75 appearances.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Westbrook had long been linked to Sacramento, which didn't have another veteran point guard on the roster behind fellow offseason addition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30613" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30613">Dennis Schroder</a>. They'll be teammates for the third time; they were both on the Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2018-19 season before briefly reuniting on the Los Angeles Lakers in 2022-23. Westbrook was traded to (and subsequently bought out by) the Utah Jazz after 52 games with the Lakers.</p><p>The UCLA product also played with Kings center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/38429" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/38429">Domantas Sabonis</a> on the Thunder during the Lithuanian's rookie season in 2016-17. Westbrook was named MVP that year after averaging a triple-double of 31.6 points, 10.4 assists, and 10.7 rebounds in 81 games and leading Oklahoma City to a playoff berth following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>'s departure to the Golden State Warriors.</p>

DENVER, CO - APRIL 19: Russell Westbrook #4 of the Denver Nuggets celebrates during the game against the LA Clippers during Round One Game One of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 19, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Kings agree to reported 1-year deal with Westbrook

If expected success was the lone reason to watch an NBA team, only a handful of squads would qual...

<p><em>If expected success was the lone reason to watch an NBA team, only a handful of squads would qualify as must-see TV. In a highlight-heavy world, even long shots can provide plenty of entertainment. With that in mind, here's our ranking of how watchable all 30 teams are, starting with the bottom 15.</em></p><p><em>Check out the top 15 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3348052" href="https://thescore.com/news/3348052">here</a>.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: JAZZ (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-X7kQN" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/X7kQN/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>There's no way to sugarcoat things for Jazz fans: Another rough year awaits with the team clearly in tank mode. At least they've moved on from a number of vets to clear the way for their young players. But expect Ace Bailey and Walter Clayton Jr. to go through growing pains as they begin their NBA careers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: KINGS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nmfGq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nmfGq/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>DeMar DeRozan said it best in September when he called Sacramento's 2024-25 season a "shit show." That seems to be a recurring theme for the Kings, barring the first year of the Beam era in 2022-23 that spawned their only playoff appearance in the last 19 seasons. A strong starting five will have its moments. At this point, however, the franchise seems happy to slap a "watch at your own peril" warning on itself with nearly two decades worth of stupefying decisions.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: WIZARDS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yLqMx" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yLqMx/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>The good news for Wizards supporters is that they'll likely improve upon last season's 18 wins. Unfortunately, that might mean starting a pair of 34-year-old veterans. CJ McCollum has some juice left in the tank, but Khris Middleton's best days are behind him. Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George all showed promise as rookies, while Cam Whitmore has something to prove after failing to crack the Rockets' rotation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: NETS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KEpeg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KEpeg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>For better or worse, you never really know what you'll get throughout a full season with Cam Thomas and Michael Porter Jr. But with so many moving parts on this team - including five 2025 first-round picks - even the occasional red-hot shooting performances from Thomas or Porter may not be enough to convince Nets fans to devote their evenings to another rebuilding year.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: PACERS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ig4vq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ig4vq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Tyrese Haliburton's offensive play made the Pacers so enjoyable to watch. They'll miss his clutch shot-making and ability to get others involved this season. Myles Turner, who was the team's heart and soul, joined the Bucks after a decade in Indy. The Pacers still have Pascal Siakam's two-way versatility, T.J. McConnell's scrappy defense, and the high-flying Obi Toppin. But the viewing experience won't be the same.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: CELTICS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-61qy8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/61qy8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Celtics management rushed to duck an exorbitant tax bill this summer, and now the team barely resembles the 2024 NBA champs. Apathy about this season emanates from the front office; with Jayson Tatum still recovering from Achilles surgery, Boston's seemingly makeshift rotation isn't very exciting. Tatum appears to be on a best-case timeline in his recovery, but until he's back, watching these Celtics may be tedious.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: BLAZERS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VEHII" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VEHII/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Portland offers fans a little bit of everything. Donovan Clingan is an above-the-rim threat and imposing rim-protector with a 7-foot-7 wingspan. Toumani Camara and Jrue Holiday are lockdown defenders. Shaedon Sharpe has uncorked his share of poster slams through his first three NBA seasons. Deni Avdija and Scoot Henderson aren't afraid to take it to the rack. And rookie Yang Hansen's passing ability out of the post has attracted comparisons to Jokic.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: BULLS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-7UftG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/7UftG/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>The Bulls may have played the 2024-25 regular season's most entertaining game: They stunned the Lakers in March after Josh Giddey's half-court heave at the buzzer capped a hectic finish in Chicago. But that felt like an outlier for an organization that hasn't given fans much to get excited about recently. Giddey's breakout year, Coby White's energy, and Matas Buzelis' growth in his hometown are real reasons for optimism, but it will take a lot more than that to restore the Bulls to League Pass favorites.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: HEAT (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SluoV" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SluoV/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Miami's half-court offense has been a slog in recent years, but that could change this season. Norman Powell gives the Heat another shot-creator besides Tyler Herro. His ability to shoot off movement and penetrate the lane adds a few wrinkles to the team's attack. Bam Adebayo remains one of the league's premier passing big men and interior defenders. Kel'el Ware is a lob threat in the pick-and-roll and flashed the ability to knock down threes as a rookie.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: SUNS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nlW3N" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nlW3N/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>While the Suns' Big Three experiment with Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal was a flop, any team that loses Durant in the summer just won't generate the same excitement heading into the new season. Devin Booker is still one of the NBA's most thrilling bucket-getters and Jalen Green is good for several explosive posters throughout the year, but watching Dillon Brooks and Grayson Allen get under the skin of opponents is an acquired taste that many people have yet to acquire.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: CAVALIERS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-hqUdd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/hqUdd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>The Cavs transformed into the NBA's most lethal scoring unit during Kenny Atkinson's first season in charge. Donovan Mitchell is an elite on-ball scorer, and he's also a threat coming off screens or cutting to the basket. Darius Garland changes pace smoothly on drives and can finish in the lane with floaters. Both guards frequently get into the teeth of the defense and use that leverage to set up Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley on lobs.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: RAPTORS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XXmRm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XXmRm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Toronto's watchability factor feels like an enigma. Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes could be the multi-faceted, one-two punch at forward that other teams dream of, but there are still questions about their fit. It should be a treat to see No. 9 pick Collin Murray-Boyles hound opponents defensively, but it could be difficult to watch the rookie work on developing a dependable shot.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: BUCKS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-arCrs" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/arCrs/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Giannis Antetokounmpo alone is worth the price of admission. The Greek Freak is a freight train when running the floor in transition or rumbling downhill. His athleticism allows him to cover so much ground defensively. But Antetokounmpo continues to add new elements to his game as well. He made the fifth-most field goals from the mid-range last season and has increasingly served as a point forward, posting a career-best 33.9% assist percentage in 2024-25.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: MAGIC (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-JE98S" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/JE98S/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Desmond Bane will be a godsend for an Orlando team with chronically poor 3-point shooting, but it's a stretch to say he elevates the Magic to a League Pass must-watch. However, Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero - still just 24 and 22 years old, respectively - could drastically change the public perception of the team if they both take that elusive next step into stardom. There's just a lot of built-up Magic mediocrity to expunge.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WATCHABILITY: HORNETS (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-LgF5J" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LgF5J/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Can LaMelo Ball finally stay healthy? The Hornets floor general is an electric shot-creator who can make virtually every pass in the book. Third-year forward Brandon Miller was establishing himself as a foundational piece before his sophomore campaign was cut short by a wrist injury. Meanwhile, no lob is out of range with the verticality of Miles Bridges. Rookie forward Kon Knueppel could quickly endear himself to fans with his all-around game and hustle.</p><p><em>Check out the top 15 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3348052" href="https://thescore.com/news/3348052">here</a>.</em></p>

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NBA Watchability Rankings: The bottom 15

The NBA authorized the 23-year, $300-million sponsorship deal that the Los Angeles Clippers signe...

<p>The NBA authorized the 23-year, $300-million sponsorship deal that the Los Angeles Clippers signed with Aspiration in 2021, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46584143/sources-nba-approved-clippers-sponsorship-deal-aspiration-2021">ESPN's Bobby Marks and Baxter Holmes</a>.</p><p>The agreement required the league's explicit approval because it would have included a patch on the Clippers' jerseys. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass told ESPN that the league must greenlight agreements involving jersey patches due to their "level of exposure" and to "avoid potential brand issues or conflicts with league partnerships."</p><p>It's unclear who specifically approved the Clippers' partnership with Aspiration. NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Sept. 16 that he had "never heard of the company before." However, he walked back those comments shortly thereafter, stating he had heard of the brand but was unfamiliar with the company "in the context of the allegations."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Clippers announced their partnership with Aspiration in September 2021. The following April, the now-defunct company reportedly signed Clippers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> to a separate $28-million marketing deal. However, that agreement was never publicly announced. It also contained language that allowed the two-time Finals MVP to opt out of any obligations at his discretion, according to documents obtained by journalist Pablo Torre.</p><p>Leonard's "no-show" contract with Aspiration did not require league approval. However, the NBA is now investigating whether the team used that deal to circumvent the salary cap. The Clippers organization, owner Steve Ballmer, and co-owner Dennis Wong all sent payments to the company on separate occasions, according to documents obtained by Torre. Ballmer himself invested $50 million in Aspiration in September 2021. The team also sent Aspiration $32.4 million on April 4, 2022, the same day Leonard signed his "no-show" deal.</p><p>Despite the NBA ratifying the sponsorship agreement, Aspiration patches never made it onto Clippers jerseys. The patches were supposed to be introduced for the 2023-24 season. However, in January 2024, as reports indicated the fintech was under federal investigation for potentially misleading customers about its carbon credits, the Clippers said they had terminated their partnership with Aspiration the season prior.</p><p>Aspiration declared bankruptcy in March. Co-founder Joseph Sanberg agreed in August to plead guilty to defrauding investors of $248 million.</p>

SHENZHEN, CHINA - OCTOBER 11: Steve Ballmer, owner of Los Angeles Clippers, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and Michael Jordan, Owner of Charlotte Hornets speak to media during the press conference before the match between Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Clippers as part of the 2015 Global Games China at Universiade Centre on October 11, 2015 in Shenzhen, China.

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Report: NBA approved Clippers' $300M deal with Aspiration in 2021

The Detroit Tigers went nine consecutive innings without a run but still took the Seattle Mariner...

<p>The Detroit Tigers went nine consecutive innings without a run but still took the Seattle Mariners to 15 innings before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a>'s bases-loaded walk-off single eliminated Detroit and sent Seattle to the American League Championship Series.</p><p>The marathon Game 5 brought a disappointing end to the Tigers' best season since their 90-win campaign in 2014, but first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12328" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12328">Spencer Torkelson</a> believes there were plenty of positives to take from the dramatic defeat.</p><p>"Heartbreaking ending," Torkelson said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2025/10/11/mariners-take-15-inning-battle-end-tigers-season-in-epic-game-5/86619037007/">Chris McCosky of The Detroit News</a>. "But it was an unbelievable game to be a part of. The boys showed a lot of fight in that game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We didn't win, but there is so much to be proud of. Not only in this game, but just this incredible season we all had."</p><p>Torkelson struggled in the contest, finishing 0-for-6 with four strikeouts against four different pitchers. However, he was far from the only batter with issues at the plate. The Tigers had five players go hitless in five or more at-bats as the Mariners' pitchers combined for 17 strikeouts and just four walks throughout the grueling matchup. Meanwhile, Seattle had its own issues solving the Tigers' arms, specifically starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>, who recorded 13 of Detroit's 20 punchouts but left the game after 99 pitches over six innings.</p><p>Skubal, a favorite to win his second straight AL Cy Young, was one of several bright spots from a Tigers season that started strong before losing considerable momentum in the second half. An eight-game losing streak in September allowed the Cleveland Guardians to finish atop the AL Central despite Detroit holding a 10-game lead on Sept. 3.</p><p>It's also the second straight year in which the Tigers have been bounced in Game 5 of the ALDS. However, this was at least a much closer battle than the 7-3 loss to the Guardians that eliminated them in 2024, a minor consolation for a franchise that has yet to return to the ALCS since 2013.</p><p>"I feel like the standard is a lot higher than where it's been," Torkelson added. "Our floor has been raised and we don't know where our ceiling is. We're not satisfied making it to Game 5 of the ALDS. We want more.</p><p>"This stings but we've raised our floor and created a new standard of what it should be like."</p><p> </p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 10: Spencer Torkelson #20 of the Detroit Tigers reacts after striking out against the Seattle Mariners during the first inning in game five of the American League Division Series at T-Mobile Park on October 10, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Torkelson, Tigers rue 'heartbreaking' Game 5 loss

Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally will not play in Game 4 of the WNBA Finals against the Las ...

<p>Phoenix Mercury forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/61704" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/61704">Satou Sabally</a> will not play in Game 4 of the WNBA Finals against the Las Vegas Aces on Friday due to a concussion, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Sabally sustained the injury late in the fourth quarter of Wednesday's Game 3. While attempting to secure a rebound against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55029" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55029">Jackie Young</a>, Sabally fell and hit her head on Aces forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/102678" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/102678">Kierstan Bell</a>'s knee. She left the game and did not return.</p><p>The Aces are up 3-0 in the series.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sabally leads the Mercury in scoring this postseason with 19 points per game. She also led the team during the regular season, averaging 16.3 points in 39 games.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - OCTOBER 8: Satou Sabally #0 of the Phoenix Mercury dribbles the ball during the game against the Las Vegas Aces during Game Three of the WNBA Finals on October 8, 2025 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Mercury star Sabally out for must-win Game 4 with concussion

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Jonathan Soveta

News Editor

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