The Minnesota Lynx acquired Karlie Samuelson from the Washington Mystics for their first-round pi...

The Minnesota Lynx acquired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/95296" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/95296">Karlie Samuelson</a> from the Washington Mystics for their first-round pick in the 2026 draft, the teams announced Monday.Samuelson is coming off a breakout season in which she averaged a career-high 8.4 points across 29 games. The 29-year-old also posted 2.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 39.8% from three.The Lynx will mark the sixth team Samuelson has played for in her career. She previously suited up with the Los Angeles Sparks, Dallas Wings, Seattle Storm, and Phoenix Mercury.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Minnesota acquired an extra 2026 first-round selection from the Chicago Sky on Sunday in exchange for the No. 11 pick in Monday's WNBA draft.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - SEPTEMBER 17: Karlie Samuelson #44 of the Washington Mystics looks on during the game against the New York Liberty on September 17, 2024 at Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, D.C. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Lynx acquire Samuelson from Mystics for 2026 1st-rounder

Illinois freshman Kasparas Jakucionis will enter the NBA draft, he told ESPN's Jonathan Givony.  ...

Illinois freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121809" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121809">Kasparas Jakucionis</a> will enter the NBA draft, he told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44669227/illinois-star-freshman-kasparas-jakucionis-enter-nba-draft">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>.Jakucionis is a projected top-10 pick after averaging 15 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists for the Fighting Illini this season."This has been my dream from a young age," Jakucionis told ESPN on Monday. "I've waited for this moment a long time. Saying goodbye to Illinois will be the hardest part. I've made friendships and built real relationships with players, coaches, support staff, and everyone around Champaign. My goal now is to work as hard as I can and be the best version of myself."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Jakucionis earned spots on the Big Ten All-Freshman team and the All-Big Ten second team for his standout campaign. He also led Illinois to the Round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament, where Kentucky eliminated the Illini.Hailing from Lithuania, Jakucionis was one of the first highly regarded European players to skip out on the European league and play for a U.S. college."I wanted to be closer to American basketball," Jakucionis said. "The academic side is very important for me and my family. And, of course, for the NBA, it helps. The competition in college is extremely high level. Every game and detail matters. You're competing against the best young players in the world."The 6-foot-6 guard added that he studies <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> more than any other player, particularly admiring "how he reads the game."Illinois' Canadian <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121811" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121811">Will Riley</a> will also declare for the NBA draft, he told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44673022/illinois-riley-projected-1st-rounder-enters-nba-draft">Givony</a>. The freshman is a projected first-rounder after averaging 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists and winning Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year this season."I learned a lot through the season," Riley said. "I faced a lot of adversity, which helped me. When I was younger, I had no idea what it was like on the American basketball scene. That transition from Canada was good for me. The biggest difference was the physicality. I put on 22 pounds before the start of the season. NBA teams saw my potential as a ball-handler and creator, my IQ, and my ability to make reads. These are things you can't teach. I got adjusted midway through the season and started to blossom."

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 14: Kasparas Jakucionis #32 of the Illinois Fighting Illini passes the ball during the game against the Maryland Terrapins in the Big Ten men's basketball tournament quarterfinals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 14, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Illinois' Jakucionis, Riley to enter NBA draft

Toronto Raptors star Scottie Barnes wasn't too impressed with his level of play in his fourth NBA...

Toronto Raptors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> wasn't too impressed with his level of play in his fourth NBA season."Shooting was a problem for me this year," Barnes told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://x.com/JLew1050/status/1911803640282513613">TSN's Josh Lewenberg</a>."It was my first year having the ball in my hands for real and just finding out what's gonna work for me."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Barnes acknowledged he needs to not shy "away from physicality" and admitted he fell short of the dominance he hoped to display this campaign.The 23-year-old regressed in most major statistical categories after making his first All-Star team in 2023-24. He averaged 19.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.4 steals, and a block this season.Barnes also posted career lows in field-goal percentage (44.6) and 3-point percentage (27.1).He said he focused on developing different parts of his game throughout the campaign but needs to learn how to bring them together each night consistently."Some stretches throughout the season, you saw me working on playing a lot in the mid-range, working on fades, getting to the mid, shooting pull-ups," Barnes said. "Different times of the season, you saw me attack and (be) really aggressive getting to the rim, playmaking."Barnes added that he's confident he'll elevate his game once all the pieces, particularly his shooting, come together. But despite the challenges, Barnes said he still managed to take several positives away from the campaign."I'm able to get to my spots. I'm able to play out of the post if I want to, play at the top pick-and-roll. I'm able to find those mismatches," Barnes said.He also had high praise for his defensive capabilities, saying he feels like "an All-Defensive team type of player.""Once we start winning, my name is going to be in a lot more conversations. All that stuff is going to come," Barnes said, per <a href="https://x.com/JLew1050/status/1911802284872265806">Lewenberg</a>.Although Toronto finished the season sitting 11th in the East with a 30-52 record, the 2022 Rookie of the Year predicted a playoff berth for the Raptors next season.

DALLAS, TX - APRIL 11: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on April 11, 2025 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Raptors' Barnes reflects on tough season, vows to embrace physicality

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic had the top-selling jersey across the NBA this season, the le...

Los Angeles Lakers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> had the top-selling jersey across the NBA this season, the league announced Monday. Doncic is the first international player to ever top the jersey sales list and the first player other than<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148"> Stephen Curry</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> to be No. 1 since 2012-13 when the New York Knicks' Carmelo Anthony held the spot.Top five in jersey sales<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Curry</td>
<td>Golden State Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jayson Tatum</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>New York Knicks</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>Jersey sales are up 21% since the Feb. 6 trade deadline compared to the same period last year. The NBA said this was primarily driven by Doncic's trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers.The Lakers also sold the most merchandise in the league, overtaking the Boston Celtics, who led at the halfway point of the season.Doncic and the Lakers finished third in the West and will face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 11: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the third quarter against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena on April 11, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Luka breaks LeBron-Steph stranglehold to become jersey king

The Phoenix Suns announced Monday they fired head coach Mike Budenholzer after just one season.  ...

The Phoenix Suns announced Monday they fired head coach Mike Budenholzer after just one season.Phoenix fell well short of expectations this campaign, finishing 36-46 and missing the playoffs with the most expensive roster in the NBA."Competing at the highest level remains our goal, and we failed to meet expectations this season," the Suns said in a statement. "Our fans deserve better. Change is needed."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Budenholzer signed a five-year deal worth more than $50 million last May to replace Frank Vogel, who was also fired after a single season.Phoenix will now look for its third head coach in three seasons after dismissing Monty Williams following the 2022-23 campaign.The Suns went 10-18 after the All-Star break and 1-9 in their final 10 games to fall out of the play-in tournament. They also went 12-32 against teams with a .500 record or better.Budenholzer reportedly had issues connecting with the Suns' locker room this season, and the roster failed to respond to him, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44671389/sources-suns-fire-coach-mike-budenholzer-one-season">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. His inability to coexist with the players reportedly centered around star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a>.The Suns are expected to retool around Booker this offseason and will reportedly look to trade <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> and have discussions about the future of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a>.Durant seemed to be a difference-maker for Phoenix this campaign. The Suns went 33-29 when he was in the lineup and 3-17 without him. He missed their final seven games with an ankle sprain.Phoenix is just the third team in NBA history to begin a season 8-1 and miss the playoffs. One of the Suns' worst stretches this season came across March and April when they lost a franchise-worst eight consecutive games by double digits.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 08: Head coach Mike Budenholzer of the Phoenix Suns reacts during the first half of the NBA game at PHX Arena on April 08, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Suns fire Budenholzer after 1 season

The New Orleans Pelicans fired executive vice president David Griffin after six seasons, the team...

The New Orleans Pelicans fired executive vice president David Griffin after six seasons, the team announced Monday."This was a difficult decision, but one that I feel is necessary at this time to bring a fresh approach to our front office and build a culture that will deliver sustainable success, on and off the court," Pelicans governor Gayle Benson said in a statement.NBA Hall of Famer Joe Dumars is a front-runner to replace Griffin, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1911838678160412850">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. Dumars was the 2003 Executive of the Year and led the Detroit Pistons to the 2004 NBA title.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dumars currently serves as executive vice president and head of basketball operations for the NBA. The Pelicans and Dumars are expected to engage in talks to finalize a deal by the end of the week, Charania <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1911839611900575942">reports</a>, citing sources.Under Griffin's leadership, the Pelicans compiled a 209-263 overall record and finished 2024-25 ranked 27th in the NBA at 21-61.New Orleans made the postseason in 2022 and 2024 during Griffin's tenure but lost in the first round both times.While Griffin helped build a strong roster entering this season, a wave of injuries derailed the Pelicans' hopes of competing. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herb Jones</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96120">Trey Murphy III</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46143" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46143">Dejounte Murray</a> all missed significant time.Head coach Willie Green remains in place as New Orleans begins its search for a new executive to oversee basketball operations. Whoever the Pelicans hire to replace Griffin will have a say in Green's future with the franchise, sources told <a href="https://x.com/WillGuillory/status/1911803231715360862">The Athletic's Will Guillory</a>.Griffin came to New Orleans with lots of hype after leading the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2010-17. He played a pivotal role in bringing<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72"> LeBron James</a> back to Cleveland and was at the helm of the Cavs for their NBA championship in 2016.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - MARCH 6: David Griffin Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations of the New Orleans Pelicans looks on before a game against the Houston Rockets at the Smoothie King Center on March 6, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Pelicans dismiss top exec David Griffin after 6 seasons

Despite a disastrous season, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey remain confident the Philadelphia 76ers...

Despite a disastrous season, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> remain confident the Philadelphia 76ers can still be a legitimate title contender."I think with the personnel we have, I think with finding young talent (to help us). ... I think we can be a team in the future that can compete for a championship," George said ahead of Sunday's regular-season finale, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44658463/paul-george-tyrese-maxey-say-sixers-compete-lost-season">ESPN's Tim Bontemps</a>.The Sixers began the campaign with championship aspirations but entered Sunday ranked 26th in the NBA. Sunday's loss to the Chicago Bulls dropped Philadelphia to 24-58, marking its worst record since 2015-16 and a dramatic fall from preseason expectations.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Injuries contributed to the collapse, as George, Maxey, and star center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> missed significant stretches and were ultimately shut down early due to injuries."The one positive that I do take away is the only way we can go from here is up," said Maxey.The Sixers' Big Three played only 294 minutes together across 15 games this season."The names on the paper ... it looks nice. It does," Maxey said. "And I think we've seen where our peaks can be this year. There wasn't a lot of them. But there was some stretches where we all played, and we looked really good. We found the right rotations, we knew who to get the ball to, who we need to get the ball to them, everybody got shots, everybody looked good."So the sky's the limit. That's the thing that I can say. But the work has to be put in from Day 1, not from in the middle of the season. ... Today is our last game. Whenever everybody decides to start working out again, that's when our season for next year starts, individually and collectively. And it has to be taken serious."George appeared in 41 contests this campaign after signing a four-year, $212-million max deal with Philly in the offseason. He also posted his lowest scoring average (16.2 points per game) since 2014-15."It was just, to be honest, one of the toughest seasons for me," George said. "Just with a lot of adversity on the court, off the court and, then again, the injury stuff was some stuff that I didn't necessarily know I had going on ... which was frustrating."Embiid played in 19 games, the fewest of the Sixers' trio. The team announced earlier this week that Embiid underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, his second operation on that knee in the last 14 months."It sucked," Maxey said of watching Embiid struggle with his injury. "At the end of the day, Joe is somebody who really wants to be out there. So to see him suffer, to see him go out there and actually try, and he just couldn't be himself ... you could tell.Maxey added, "Hopefully, that surgery went well and all that, and he gets back to the Joel Embiid that we know and love."Sixers president Daryl Morey announced following Sunday's loss that he and head coach Nick Nurse will return next season.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 11: Tyrese Maxey #0 and Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Toronto Raptors at the Wells Fargo Center on February 11, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Raptors defeated the 76ers 106-103. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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George, Maxey keeping faith in 76ers despite rough season

Former Michigan State guard Tre Holloman committed to NC State, he announced Sunday on Instagram....

Former Michigan State guard Tre Holloman committed to NC State, he <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DIZK5rwRTTk/?igsh=XzViQXg1QUNC&amp;img_index=1">announced</a> Sunday on Instagram.Holloman is coming off a breakout sophomore season with Michigan State, averaging 9.1 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists across 37 games in 2024-25.The 21-year-old had a stellar March Madness, scoring double digits in three of the Spartans' four games. However, Holloman finished his career at Michigan State on a sour note, going 0-for-10 from the field in the Elite Eight loss to Auburn.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>NC State went 12-19 overall and 5-15 in conference play this past season. The Wolfpack failed to qualify for the NCAA Tournament after finishing 16th in the ACC.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MARCH 28: Tre Holloman #5 of the Michigan State Spartans celebrates after defeating the Ole Miss Rebels 73-70 during the second half in the South Regional Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at State Farm Arena on March 28, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Former Michigan State guard Holloman joining NC State

The Portland Trail Blazers announced Sunday they agreed to a multi-year contract extension with h...

The Portland Trail Blazers announced Sunday they agreed to a multi-year contract extension with head coach Chauncey Billups.Billups was in the final guaranteed year of his previous deal, and the Blazers picked up his option for next season while adding another two years, NBA insider <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1911445129937793447">Chris Haynes</a> reports.His new deal will reportedly run through the 2027-28 season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"The core of Chauncey's leadership is his ability to build a collaborative culture and growth mindset for our young team," Jody Allen, chair of the Blazers, said in a statement. "We're very happy to extend his contract as head coach, and excited to see his continued work developing our players and transforming this team into one capable of long-term success."Billups took over as bench boss in Portland in 2021-22 and holds an overall record of 116-211. The Blazers' 35 wins this season are their most in four years.He found a groove with his young roster in 2025, as the Blazers hold a 22-18 record since Jan. 19. They also boast the third-best defensive rating in the NBA over that time."We are building this team the right way with a defensive-minded, hard-nosed, competitive culture," said Billups. "I look forward to continuing to give Rip City fans a product on the court that they can be proud of and cheer for every night."The Hall of Famer has sparked the development of the Blazers' young core, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102802" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102802">Shaedon Sharpe</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93883" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93883">Deni Avdija</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110264" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110264">Toumani Camara</a> making notable leaps this season.Portland also inked general manager Joe Cronin to a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3260907" href="https://thescore.com/news/3260907">multi-year extension</a> on Monday."Chauncey Billups is a great leader, motivator and communicator that has worked tirelessly to establish an identity for this team that has taken shape over his time in Portland," said Cronin. "I am beyond excited to continue this partnership with Chauncey and take this team to the next level."The Blazers have failed to make the playoffs under Billups. They've been eliminated from postseason contention entering their regular-season finale Sunday against the Los Angeles Lakers.

PORTLAND, OREGON - APRIL 06: Head coach Chauncey Billups of the Portland Trail Blazers gestures during the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs at the Moda Center on April 06, 2025 in Portland, Oregon. The Portland Trail Blazers won 120-109.

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Trail Blazers sign Billups to multi-year extension

Houston guard Milos Uzan will declare for the NBA draft, his agent told ESPN's Jonathan Givony.  ...

Houston guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103081" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103081">Milos Uzan</a> will declare for the NBA draft, his agent told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44655110/houston-star-milos-uzan-declare-nba-draft">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>.Uzan enjoyed a breakout season with Houston after spending two years at Oklahoma, averaging 11.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists while shooting 42.8% from three in 2024-25.The 22-year-old was a standout in the recent March Madness, producing a 22-point, six-assist performance against Purdue in the Sweet 16. Uzan scored the game-winning layup to eliminate the Boilermakers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Uzan also earned a spot on the All-Big 12 Tournament team before leading the Cougars to the national championship, where they lost to Florida.He still has one year of college eligibility and has until May 28 to withdraw from the draft. However, Uzan will return to Houston if he chooses to remain in school, per Givony.

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

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Houston's Uzan to declare for NBA draft

Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards will be eligible to play Sunday against the Utah Jazz...

Minnesota Timberwolves star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> will be eligible to play Sunday against the Utah Jazz after his 18th technical foul of the season was rescinded by the league.Edwards received his 18th tech in Friday's win over the Brooklyn Nets after complaining about a foul call.NBA rules state any player who reaches 16 technical fouls during the regular season must serve a one-game suspension and every two subsequent technicals will trigger another one-game ban. Edwards served a suspension for his 16th technical as the Timberwolves lost to the Jazz on Feb. 28.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Edwards is the T-Wolves' top scorer, averaging a career-high 27.4 points per game. He's also shooting a personal-best 39.5% from three.The Timberwolves have an opportunity to clinch a top-six seed in the West and avoid the play-in tournament with a win Sunday.Minnesota currently sits seventh in the West at 48-33.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - APRIL 11: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on April 11, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Edwards eligible to play vs. Jazz after NBA rescinds technical

Florida forward Alex Condon will test the NBA draft waters, with the opportunity to return to the...

Florida forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110701" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110701">Alex Condon</a> will test the NBA draft waters, with the opportunity to return to the Gators next season, head coach Todd Golden told reporters Saturday, including the <a href="https://x.com/osgators/status/1911128386543505563">Orlando Sentinel's Edgar Thompson</a>.Condon will go through the pre-draft process before making a decision on his future. The 6-foot-11 Condon had a breakout sophomore season for Florida, becoming a regular in Golden's starting lineup. He averaged 10.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.3 blocks while shooting 49.3% from the field and 32.8% from three. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Condon played a key role in the Gators' run to the national championship. He contributed 12 points, seven rebounds, and four steals in the title game against Houston.The 20-year-old was named to the All-SEC third team.Condon is projected to be selected in the first round if he declares for the 2025 draft.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MARCH 27: Alex Condon #21 of the Florida Gators dribbles the ball during the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Sweet 16 game against the Maryland Terrapins at the Chase Center on March 27, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Florida's Condon to test NBA draft waters

The Golden State Warriors are expecting an intense battle in Sunday's regular-season high-stakes ...

The Golden State Warriors are expecting an intense battle in Sunday's regular-season high-stakes finale against the Los Angeles Clippers, with the winner clinching a top-six seed in the Western Conference and the loser potentially falling to the play-in tournament."I don't want to be too dramatic," Warriors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> said following Friday's 103-86 win over the Portland Trail Blazers, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44639220/stephen-curry-awaits-game-7-vibe-warriors-clippers-tilt">ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk</a>."It should be like a Game 7 kind of vibe. You win, and you control your destiny on a guaranteed playoff series. If you lose, you roll the dice."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Warriors own an 0-3 record in the play-in tourney."(It will be) like a playoff game," Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> said. "Super intense. Two teams fighting for their playoff lives. Expected to be a very physical, high-intelligent, high-level basketball game."Golden State also faces the added concern heading into Sunday with a potential thumb injury to Curry. The 37-year-old briefly left Friday's win after aggravating a right thumb issue from earlier in the season.Curry said the new pain in his thumb affected his shooting "a little bit" against the Blazers. However, the Warriors announced that X-rays on the thumb came back negative."From what I know, just an aggravation," Curry said. "The same thing (as the earlier thumb injury), but hopefully it wasn't anything serious."He added, "I just know it hurts right now, but I'll be all right."A win Sunday would give Curry and the Warriors a week off to rest and prepare before Round 1.

PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 11: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors drives to the basket during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on APRIL 11, 2025 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Steph expects 'Game 7 vibe' Sunday vs. Clippers

The Boston Celtics are converting two-way guard and G League MVP JD Davison to a standard, two-ye...

The Boston Celtics are converting two-way guard and G League MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102746" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102746">JD Davison</a> to a standard, two-year NBA contract, his agent told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1911081001649918345">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Davison averaged 25.1 points, 7.6 assists, and 5.6 rebounds for Boston's G League affiliate in Maine this season. The 22-year-old has appeared in 35 NBA games for the Celtics since they drafted him in 2022. He holds a career average of 1.7 points per game on 38.9% shooting.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Davison fills the Celtics' final roster spot to end the season.Boston has already clinched the East's 2-seed and will play the winner of the play-in game between the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks in the first round.

ORLANDO, FL - APRIL 9: JD Davison #20 of the Boston Celtics handles the ball during the game against the Orlando Magic JD Davidson on April 9, 2025 at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Celtics convert G League MVP Davison to standard, 2-year deal

Boston Celtics wing Jaylen Brown received pain management injections in his right knee with hopes...

Boston Celtics wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> received pain management injections in his right knee with hopes of it healing ahead of the postseason, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44640258/celtics-jaylen-brown-got-painkilling-shot-knee-sources-say">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>.Brown has dealt with a bone bruise in his knee for nearly a month. The injury forced him to miss the Celtics' last two games and seven contests total since March 14. He last appeared in the Celtics' overtime win against the New York Knicks on Tuesday, playing 21 minutes.The reigning Finals MVP is expected to be ready for Boston's first playoff game, as the Celtics begin their title defense, Shelburne reported.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Celtics center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a> said after Tuesday's win that he urged Brown to rest before the postseason begins."He's a tough dude," Porzingis said. "He always preaches his warrior mindset. He lives by it. But to what extent do we need that right now? Maybe he needs to take care of it and make sure he's going to be ready for the most important moment. I think we need to encourage him to make sure he does everything he needs to prepare to get it healthy and to prepare for what's going to come."Brown is averaging 22.2 points in 63 games this season while shooting a career-worst 32.4% from three. He's ineligible for any awards because he won't meet the league's 65-game requirement.The Celtics have already clinched the 2-seed in the East. They play their final regular-season game Sunday against the Charlotte Hornets.

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 6: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards on April 6, 2025 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Celtics' Brown received pain-killing shot in knee

South Carolina standout MiLaysia Fulwiley will reportedly enter the transfer portal, sources told...

South Carolina standout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111389" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111389">MiLaysia Fulwiley</a> will reportedly enter the transfer portal, sources told <a href="https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/sports/college/usc/2025/04/11/milaysia-fulwiley-transfer-portal-south-carolina-womens-basketball-dawn-staley/83045762007/">The Greenville News' Lulu Kesin</a>.Fulwiley was the Gamecocks' second-highest scorer in her sophomore season, averaging 11.7 points with 2.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.5 steals in 18.9 minutes off the bench. She shot 42.6% from the field and 25.8% from beyond the arc.The move comes after Florida State guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104904" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104904">Ta'Niya Latson</a> announced her <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3261845" href="https://thescore.com/news/3261845">transfer</a> to South Carolina on Tuesday. Latson averaged 25.4 points this year - the most in Division I. Her addition would've likely generated fewer opportunities for Fulwiley next season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Fulwiley was a hometown favorite for the Gamecocks, helping lead them to a national championship in 2024.The Gamecocks fell just short of a repeat, losing to UConn in the championship game. Fulwiley was held to nine points on 4-of-7 shooting in what was likely her final game with South Carolina.

TAMPA, FL - APRIL 06: South Carolina Gamecocks guard MiLaysia Fulwiley (12) during the 2025 NCAA Div I Women's Championship game between UConn Huskies and South Carolina Gamecocks on April 6, 2025, at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL.

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Report: South Carolina's Fulwiley to enter transfer portal

The Toronto Raptors are converting two-way guard A.J. Lawson to a two-year standard NBA contract,...

The Toronto Raptors are converting two-way guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96071" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96071">A.J. Lawson</a> to a two-year standard NBA contract, his agents told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1910726037379428515">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Lawson has been granted increased playing time with his hometown Raptors. He's averaging 8.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists across 24 games this season.The 24-year-old is playing a career-high 18 minutes per game and shooting 33.3% from three.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Lawson posted a career-best 32 points March 10 in a victory over the Washington Wizards. He followed that up with 28 points in a win against the Philadelphia 76ers on March 12.

TORONTO, CANADA - APRIL 9: A.J. Lawson #0 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates during the game against the Charlotte Hornets on April 9, 2025 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Raptors convert Lawson to 2-year standard deal

Denver Nuggets president Josh Kroenke thought of firing head coach Michael Malone and general man...

Denver Nuggets president Josh Kroenke thought of firing head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth earlier this season, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44622610/why-denver-nuggets-fired-michael-malone-calvin-booth-just-days-left-nba-season">ESPN's Tim MacMahon and Ramona Shelburne</a>.Kroenke pondered parting ways with the duo multiple times and wanted to clean house at the All-Star break, MacMahon and Shelburne report.Malone and Booth reportedly had their jobs saved due to the Nuggets being in the midst of an eight-game winning streak.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"There were certain trends that were very worrisome to me at certain points in time, but they would get masked by a few wins here and there," Kroenke said Tuesday, the day he pulled the trigger. "In the world of professional sports, where winning and losing is your currency, winning can mask a lot of things."Kroenke made the decision to fire both Malone and Booth on Sunday, per MacMahon and Shelburne. Denver lost to the Indiana Pacers the same day, its fourth straight defeat.The Nuggets' vibes were reportedly poor prior to the firings, and the locker room wasn't responding, particularly on defense. There was also a reported "cold war" between Malone and Booth about playing and developing younger players in the rotation.Denver responded to the shakeup with a 124-116 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> said following the win that Kroenke "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3263375" href="https://thescore.com/news/3263375">woke up the beast</a>" with the move.The Nuggets sit 48-32 on the season and are fourth in the West with two games remaining.

DENVER, CO - MAY 23: Denver Nuggets general manager Calvin Booth, president Josh Kroenke and head coach Michael Malone speak during the team's end-of-year press conference at Ball Arena in Denver on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

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Report: Kroenke considered firing Malone, Booth during All-Star break

Saint Joseph's forward Rasheer Fleming will enter the NBA draft, his agents told ESPN's Jonathon ...

Saint Joseph's forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103504" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103504">Rasheer Fleming</a> will enter the NBA draft, his agents told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44630650/saint-joseph-forward-rasheer-fleming-enter-nba-draft">ESPN's Jonathon Givony</a> on Friday.Fleming is a projected first-round pick in the 2025 draft after a breakout season in which he was named to the All-Atlantic Ten first team. He averaged 14.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.5 blocks across 35 games.Fleming improved in every major category in his junior season and posted a 39% mark from deep.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Fleming has a 7-foot-5 wingspan and was the only player in college to post 60-plus dunks and 40-plus threes this season.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 8: Rasheer Fleming #13 of the Saint Joseph's Hawks stands on the court against the La Salle Explorers at John Glaser Arena on March 8, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Saint Joseph's Fleming declares for draft

High Point head coach Alan Huss is stepping down to join Greg McDermott's staff at Creighton as a...

High Point head coach Alan Huss is stepping down to join Greg McDermott's staff at Creighton as associate head coach and the head coach-in-waiting, the school announced Thursday."Returning to Creighton, my alma mater, to work alongside Coach McDermott and contribute to the future of this program is an extraordinary opportunity and, honestly, my dream job," Huss said in a statement. "The chance to build upon the foundation of Bluejay basketball while preparing to lead this program is incredibly special."McDermott, 60, is expected to retire within the next two seasons, sources told <a href="https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/1910361834537771366">The Field of 68's Jeff Goodman</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Huss served as an assistant at Creighton from 2017-23 before becoming the head coach at High Point. In his two seasons leading the Panthers, he guided them to a 56-15 record and their first March Madness appearance this year.Huss, 46, also played at Creighton from 1997-2001.The school's hope is that bringing in Huss now eases the eventual transition once McDermott retires. "I am excited to welcome Alan back to our program, not only as a valued member of our coaching staff but as the future head coach of Creighton men's basketball," McDermott said. "I have known Alan for nearly 20 years and can attest that his dedication and vision perfectly align with our commitment to a winning culture. When the time is right, he will be the ideal coach to keep Creighton men's basketball among the nation's best."McDermott has coached the Bluejays since 2010, winning 350 games. He's led them to 10 NCAA Tournaments, including an Elite Eight appearance in 2023."Coach McDermott's legacy extends far beyond his record as the most successful coach in Bluejay history. He's also a mentor, developing coaches like Alan Huss, who have gone on to become successful head coaches and impactful leaders of student-athletes," athletic director Marcus Blossom said.The Bluejays finished this season 25-11 overall and 15-5 in Big East play. They lost to Auburn in the second round of the tourney.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 20: Head coach Alan Huss of the High Point Panthers looks on dribbles up court during a first-round game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 20, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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High Point's Huss joins Creighton as coach-in-waiting

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