Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet expects punishment from the league after he blew up at the of...

<p>Houston Rockets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/25275" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/25275">Fred VanVleet</a> expects punishment from the league after he blew up at the officials and got ejected in the last seconds of Saturday's 104-98 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.</p><p>"I think I'm in enough trouble as it is tonight, so I probably don't need to discuss too much officiating with you guys," he told <a href="https://x.com/KellyIko/status/1860533819444507030">The Athletic's Kelly Iko</a> postgame.</p><p>"Heat of the moment, you always feel right - I know the refs aren't trying to be wrong, but we disagreed quite a bit tonight."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>VanVleet was furious over a non-call in the dying moments of the game after he tried to draw a foul at the 3-point line with Houston down three.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Even if it is contact the refs aren’t calling a foul. That is a bad play by VanVleet. No way around it. <a href="https://t.co/osNT0XJEKB">pic.twitter.com/osNT0XJEKB</a></p>— Lachard Binkley (@BinkleyHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/BinkleyHoops/status/1860528409757044978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 30-year-old pointed at several referees and shared some choice words before putting a finger in one official's face without making contact.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fred VanVleet is going to be suspended for a lot of games <a href="https://t.co/x6cQSyG65V">pic.twitter.com/x6cQSyG65V</a></p>— Fastbreak Breakfast (@fastbreakbreak) <a href="https://twitter.com/fastbreakbreak/status/1860528851652067598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Wichita State product was ejected from the game partway through his tirade.</p><p>Crew chief Courtney Kirkland <a href="https://official.nba.com/pool-report-on-the-double-technical-fouls-issued-to-houstons-dillon-brooks-and-portlands-anfernee-simons-and-technical-foul-and-ejection-of-houstons-fred-vanvleet-in-the-fourth-quarter-of-tonig/">said</a> postgame that video review showed VanVleet had been fouled on the play, but he wouldn't have been awarded free throws if the foul was called.</p><p>VanVleet tallied eight points, five rebounds, and five assists on 4-of-13 shooting from the field in Saturday's loss.</p><p>The Rockets fell to 12-6. They face the Minnesota Timberwolves in an NBA Cup game Tuesday.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 20: Fred VanVleet #5 of the Houston Rockets dribbles against the Indiana Pacers during the second half at Toyota Center on November 20, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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VanVleet tossed for outburst at refs: 'We disagreed quite a bit'

Detroit Pistons wing Ausar Thompson was cleared to return but did not play in his team's 111-100 ...

<p>Detroit Pistons wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110235" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110235">Ausar Thompson</a> was cleared to return but did not play in his team's 111-100 defeat by the Orlando Magic on Saturday.</p><p>Thompson has been working on his conditioning since the NBA's fitness-to-play panel cleared him to return to action in early November. The 21-year-old has been out since March with a blood clot issue, missing the final 19 contests of his rookie campaign and the entire 2024-25 season thus far.</p><p>The 2023 fifth overall pick averaged 8.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.1 steals in his first year in the NBA.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Meanwhile, Pistons star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> was ruled out of Saturday's tilt due to a lower back injury.</p><p>Cunningham took a hard fall while driving to the rim late in the fourth quarter of Thursday's 123-121 overtime loss to the Charlotte Hornets. He left the game and didn't return.</p><p>The Oklahoma State product leads Detroit in points (23.5), assists (8.9), and steals (0.9).</p><p>With Saturday's loss, the Pistons fell to 7-11 on the campaign.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 30: Cade Cunningham #2 and Ausar Thompson #9 of the Detroit Pistons pose for a portrait during NBA Media Day at Little Caesars Arena on September 30, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Pistons' Thompson sits out loss to Magic despite being cleared

The second annual in-season tournament resumed Friday with eight games in group play. For an expl...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tournament resumed Friday with eight games in group play. For an explanation on how the tourney works, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><p>To see what happened during Tuesday's action, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3125551" href="https://thescore.com/news/3125551">here</a>.</p><h3>Friday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Nets 98-113 <strong>76ers</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Celtics</strong> 108-96 Wizards</li>
<li>Pacers 117-129 <strong>Bucks</strong>
</li>
<li>Hawks 122-136 <strong>Bulls</strong>
</li>
<li>Blazers 88-116 <strong>Rockets</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Warriors</strong> 112-108 Pelicans</li>
<li>
<strong>Mavericks</strong> 123-120 Nuggets</li>
<li>Kings 88-104 <strong>Clippers</strong>
</li>
</ul><p>Check out our <a href="thescore:///nba/scores">NBA scores page</a> for box score recaps for each game, and the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for group standings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Top performers</h3><p><strong>Jared McCain (Sixers):</strong> The Philadelphia 76ers rookie continues to step up in the absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George. McCain poured in a team-high 30 points against the Brooklyn Nets on 11-of-20 shooting. The Duke product was just four points shy of matching a career high and topped 20 points for a seventh straight game. Only one rookie in NBA history has averaged more points as a starter than McCain's 26 per game: Michael Jordan.</p><p><strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks): </strong>The Greek Freak recorded his 47th career triple-double in a dominant performance against the Indiana Pacers. The 29-year-old recorded 37 points, 10 assists, 11 rebounds, and two steals while shooting 66.6% from the field. Antetokounmpo is now tied with Larry Bird and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar with seven 35-point triple-doubles.</p><p><strong>Nikola Jokic (Nuggets): </strong>The three-time MVP returned with another staggering performance after missing the Denver Nuggets' previous three games due to the birth of his second child. In the Nuggets' loss to the Dallas Mavericks, Jokic recorded his seventh triple-double of the season, tallying 33 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Giannis Antetokounmpo is a MONSTER 😱 <a href="https://t.co/EUoaGHRT5M">pic.twitter.com/EUoaGHRT5M</a></p>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1860160972821868946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>While Reed Sheppard had an outstanding behind-the-back <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1860156577178927279">pass</a> to assist Tari Eason's transition dunk, the Greek Freak takes the cake for his hustle on both ends - denying Bennedict Mathurin's layup before running the lane and bringing home an alley-oop pass off the backboard from Gary Trent Jr.</p><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">You made learning fun thank you for taking a picture with me 🐐 <a href="https://t.co/CWgeEhmhNg">https://t.co/CWgeEhmhNg</a> <a href="https://t.co/EYcvaXOl5J">pic.twitter.com/EYcvaXOl5J</a></p>— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCHWPO/status/1860168494198980817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Jaylen Brown the Science Guy? The Boston Celtics wing was able to meet Bill Nye, the legendary television show host, after his team beat Nye's hometown Washington Wizards. Brown tweeted in November that he wanted to meet Nye, <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1860170161418023014">calling</a> it an "honor" to shake his hand after he influenced his educational journey - which led him to play basketball at Cal.</p><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>The Houston Rockets have been one of the pleasant surprises of the young NBA season, improving to 12-5 with a dominant 28-point victory over the lowly Portland Trail Blazers. Dillon Brooks recorded 28 points and six rebounds and was plus-13, putting him just <a href="https://x.com/statmuse/status/1860157849722323430">behind</a> fellow Canadian Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the NBA's highest plus-minus this season.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The Golden State Warriors are the only team to secure a knockout-round spot via Friday's results courtesy of their win over the New Orleans Pelicans and the Nuggets' loss to the Mavericks.</p><p>The NBA Cup picks up again Tuesday with a five-game slate including a matchup between the red-hot Rockets and slumping Minnesota Timberwolves, while LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers visit the Phoenix Suns.</p><p><em>Tap the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for the latest group standings.</em></p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 22: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors takes a shot in front of New Orleans Pelicans guard Elfrid Payton #22 during the second half of an Emirates NBA Cup game at Smoothie King Center on November 22, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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NBA Cup roundup: Warriors advance to next round, Giannis dominates

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton is working through the worst slump of his young career whi...

<p>Indiana Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> is working through the worst slump of his young career while also trying to lead a floundering 6-10 Indiana Pacers squad.</p><p>"I've got to be better," he <a href="https://x.com/DustinDopirak/status/1860176512621904358">told Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star</a> after Friday night's 129-117 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. "We've got a lot of young guys playing hard, trying their best. ... I've got to figure out."</p><p>The Iowa State product scored recorded 18 points, nine assists, and only one turnover in the loss.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's part of basketball," Haliburton told reporters when asked about working through his slump, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/TonyREast/status/1860171085762977967">WTHR.com's Tony East</a>. "I just gotta keep trusting myself, working hard, trusting my teammates and I'll figure it out."</p><p>Haliburton's production has fallen off a cliff this season, averaging just 15.3 points and 8.5 assists while shooting 37.5% from the field and only 28.4% from three. It represents quite a drop-off from his previous two seasons with the Pacers: he averaged over 20 points and 10 assists both years, received two All-Star nods, and made the All-NBA third team for the 2023-24 campaign.</p><p>His numbers on the road are even more dire - the former All-Star is averaging 12.3 points and is shooting 31.8% from the field in his 10 games away from Indiana.</p><p>His play has had a massive effect on Indiana's offense: The team ranks 17th in the Association with an offensive rating of 120, slightly ahead of the 4-12 Toronto Raptors.</p><p>As a result, the Pacers are on a three-game losing skid and sit 11th in the East. </p><p>Indiana has been decimated by injuries early in the year, losing both backup centers - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93886" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93886">James Wiseman</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96062" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96062">Isaiah Jackson</a> - to season-ending Achilles injuries. Meanwhile, guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102757" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102757">Andrew Nembhard</a> - who received a three-year, $59-million extension in the offseason - has only appeared in seven games this year because of a recurring knee problem. Two-way wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93847" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93847">Aaron Nesmith</a> has also missed 10 consecutive contests with an ankle issue.</p><p>The Pacers will try and get back into winning habits on Sunday when they host the 2-12 Washington Wizards.</p>

TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 18: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers looks on against the Toronto Raptors during the second half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on November 18, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Pacers' Haliburton after loss to Bucks: 'I've got to be better'

Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic was in the starting lineup of Friday's 123-120 loss to the ...

<p>Denver Nuggets superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> was in the starting lineup of Friday's 123-120 loss to the Dallas Mavericks after missing the previous three contests due to personal reasons.</p><p>The Serbian recorded his seventh triple-double of the year, tallying 33 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists in the defeat.</p><p>Jokic and his partner welcomed their second child, a boy, Thursday night, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1860127245811220617">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 29-year-old is averaging career highs in points (29.7), assists (13.7), 3-point attempts (3.9), and 3-point percentage (56.4%) this season. The three-time MVP also leads the Association in assists per game (11.7).</p><p>Jokic hadn't played since Nov. 10 until Friday, with the Nuggets going 1-2 during that time.</p><p>Nuggets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60530" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60530">Michael Porter Jr.</a> was Denver's leading scorer in Jokic's absence, averaging 19.3 points per game while shooting 49% from the field and 26.7% from three.</p><p>The 8-6 Nuggets sit ninth in the Western Conference and are 1-2 in NBA Cup games.</p>

DENVER, CO - NOVEMBER 10: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during a regular season game on November 10, 2024 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 2024 NBAE

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Jokic returns in loss to Mavericks after missing 3 games

Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges aggravated a bone bruise in his right knee in Tuesday's l...

<p>Charlotte Hornets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53740">Miles Bridges</a> aggravated a bone bruise in his right knee in Tuesday's loss to the Brooklyn Nets and will miss Saturday's matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, the team announced Friday.</p><p>Bridges is scheduled to be reevaluated next Tuesday and will likely also miss Monday's game against the Orlando Magic.</p><p>Bridges sat out of Charlotte's 123-121 win Thursday against the Detroit Pistons. The 26-year-old is averaging 16 points, 6.5 rebounds, and three assists in 11 games this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hornets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96130" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96130">Tre Mann</a> will also miss Saturday's game due to low back soreness, the Hornets added.</p><p>Mann is averaging 14.1 points and three assists in 13 games off the bench.</p><p>The 6-9 Hornets sit ninth in the Eastern Conference.</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - NOVEMBER 19: Miles Bridges #0 of the Charlotte Hornets dribbles the ball during the game against the Brooklyn Nets during an Emirates NBA Cup game on November 19, 2024 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Hornets' Bridges, Mann sidelined vs. Bucks

Raptors forward Scottie Barnes was in the starting lineup Thursday for Toronto's 110-105 win agai...

<p>Raptors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> was in the starting lineup Thursday for Toronto's 110-105 win against the Minnesota Timberwolves after missing 11 games with a right orbital fracture.</p><p>Barnes played just 27 minutes - he was on a minutes restriction - and collected 17 points in that time. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69533" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69533">RJ Barrett</a>, meanwhile, dropped a game-high 31 to go along with seven rebounds.</p><p>A 13-1 run in the fourth quarter of Thursday's contest catapulted the Raptors to their 20th consecutive win against the T-Wolves in Toronto.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> led Minnesota with 26 points on 9-of-20 shooting from the field, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93891" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93891">Jaden McDaniels</a> added 23 and 22 points, respectively.</p><p>Raptors rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121673" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121673">Ja'Kobe Walter</a> also made his return to the lineup for the first time in six contests after recovering from a shoulder injury, but he didn't see any game time. </p><p>The Raptors have been hit hard by the injury bug. Barnes, Barrett, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93852" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93852">Immanuel Quickley</a> have yet to play in a game together, while forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2041" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2041">Kelly Olynyk</a> hasn't been available at all this season as he recovers from a back injury.</p><p>After winning their second consecutive game, the Raptors sit 13th in the Eastern Conference with a 4-12 record. The Timberwolves fall to 8-7 on the season and are 10th in the West.</p><p>The Raptors will travel to Cleveland to face the top-ranked Cavaliers on Sunday. Minnesota will finish their two-game road trip with a contest against the Boston Celtics on Sunday afternoon.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 21: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on November 21, 2024 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Raptors' Barnes returns in win vs. T-Wolves after 11-game absence

The second annual in-season tournament, the NBA Cup, resumed Tuesday with six games in group play...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tournament, the NBA Cup, resumed Tuesday with six games in group play. For an explanation of how the tourney works, including the breakdown of the groups, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><p>To see what happened during last Friday's action, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3125531" href="https://thescore.com/news/3125531">here</a>.</p><h3>Tuesday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Cavaliers 117-120 <strong>Celtics</strong>
</li>
<li>Hornets 115-116 <strong>Nets</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Nuggets</strong> 122-110 Grizzlies</li>
<li>Pelicans 91-132 <strong>Mavericks</strong>
</li>
<li>Thunder 104-110 <strong>Spurs</strong>
</li>
<li>Jazz 118-124 <strong>Lakers</strong>
</li>
</ul><p>Check out our <a href="thescore:///nba/scores">NBA scores page</a> for box score recaps for each game and the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for group standings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Top performers</h3><p><strong>Jayson Tatum (Celtics):</strong> Tatum led the charge for the Boston Celtics as they delivered the Cleveland Cavaliers their first loss of the 2024-25 season. The 26-year-old scored 33 points, topping 30 for the ninth time this year. Tatum added 12 rebounds, seven assists, and two steals while going 6-of-10 from downtown. It was also the ninth time Tatum has hit five or more 3-pointers in a game this season, the most by any player in the Association.</p><p><strong>Cameron Johnson (Nets): </strong>Johnson erupted Tuesday for his highest-scoring outburst of the season as the Brooklyn Nets came out on top in a dogfight with the Charlotte Hornets. The North Carolina product poured in 34 points, four assists, five rebounds, and two blocks while shooting an efficient 11-for-20 from the field. The performance was Johnson's first scoring 30-plus points this season and third time as a member of the Nets. The 28-year-old also added six 3-pointers.</p><p><strong>Dalton Knecht (Lakers): </strong>On a team with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the rookie wing from Tennessee shined the brightest. Knecht scored a career-high 37 points on 9-of-12 shooting from deep, including 21 points in the third quarter. He led the Lakers in scoring, helping L.A. extend its winning streak to six games with a victory over the Jazz. The 23-year-old is quickly establishing himself as one of the important cogs on a veteran team.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><p>Charlotte Hornets guard Tre Mann was cleared for takeoff when he entered the lane against Brooklyn Nets big man Noah Clowney. One small step from Mann led to one giant leap over the Nets center. The aftermath from the dunk was so vicious that the 23-year-old was assessed a technical foul.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TRE MANN. PUT IT ON A POSTER. 😱 <a href="https://t.co/8sbmWdFIIz">pic.twitter.com/8sbmWdFIIz</a></p>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1859063257304093013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Reporter: "Joe, why does the NBA Cup matter?"<br><br>Joe Mazzulla: "Who said that?"</p>— Marc D'Amico (@Marc_DAmico) <a href="https://twitter.com/Marc_DAmico/status/1858998772300407274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Well-known for his pointed quotes, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla can be effortlessly hilarious without even trying. Prior to his team's victory over the Cavaliers, Boston's bench boss questioned a reporter for asking why the NBA Cup matters. Is Mazzulla being serious or having a laugh? We'll never know.</p><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>Russell Westbrook will go down as the best triple-double getter in NBA history. On Tuesday, he became the first player to record 200 triple-doubles, putting up 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 14 assists in the Denver Nuggets' win over the Memphis Grizzlies. Westbrook is 19 triple-doubles ahead of Oscar Robertson, who's No. 2 on the all-time list. The 36-year-old also has 64 more triple-doubles than Nikola Jokic - the closest active player to him in the top 10.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The NBA Cup resumes Friday with eight games. Among the most notable is a playoff rematch between the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers, while Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks visit Jokic and the Denver Nuggets.</p><p><em>Tap the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for the latest group standings.</em></p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - NOVEMBER 19: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks to pass against Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first quarter of the Emirates NBA Cup at TD Garden on November 19, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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NBA Cup roundup: Celtics end Cavs' hot start, Russ makes history

The Los Angeles Sparks hired Utah's Lynne Roberts as their new head coach, the team announced Tue...

<p>The Los Angeles Sparks hired Utah's Lynne Roberts as their new head coach, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>"Lynne is an outstanding coach and leader," Sparks governor and managing partner Eric Holoman said. "We are thrilled to bring her decades of winning coaching experience to our organization."</p><p>Roberts had been the head coach at Utah since 2015 and held a 165-116 record at the school. She led the Utes to a Pac-12 regular-season championship and a Sweet 16 appearance in 2023. Roberts also spent nine seasons in charge of Pacific, winning the Big West regular-season title in 2013.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The Sparks have a talented roster with tremendous upside, and we will compete tirelessly for WNBA Championships," Roberts said.</p><p>L.A. parted ways with head coach Curt Miller shortly after the 2024 campaign following his second season with the team.</p><p>The club finished last in the WNBA with an 8-32 record. Cameron Brink, the 2024 No. 2 overall pick, appeared in only 15 games due to a knee injury.</p><p>The Sparks hold the No. 2 selection in the 2025 draft.</p>

SPOKANE, WASHINGTON - MARCH 25: Head coach Lynne Roberts of the Utah Utes looks on during the game against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second round of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament held at McCarthey Athletic Center on March 25, 2024 in Spokane, Washington.

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Sparks hire Utah's Lynne Roberts as new head coach

Memphis Grizzlies rookie Zach Edey is considered week-to-week due to a sprained ankle he sustaine...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies rookie Zach Edey is considered week-to-week due to a sprained ankle he sustained in Sunday's win over the Denver Nuggets, head coach Taylor Jenkins announced Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/MyMikeCheck/status/1859015270133887361">team reporter Michael Wallace</a>.</p><p>The two-time Naismith Player of the Year suffered the sprain in the third quarter while boxing out after a free throw. He had to be helped off the floor by his teammates and was ruled out for the remainder of the game.</p><p>The Purdue product is averaging 11.1 points and 6.9 rebounds while shooting 60% from the field.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Grizzlies are also without star point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a>, who has missed five games with a hip issue, as well as second-year wing GG Jackson after he underwent foot surgery in early September.</p><p>Memphis sits seventh in the Western Conference with an 8-6 record. The Grizzlies will take on the Nuggets in their second NBA Cup game of the season Tuesday night.</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - NOVEMBER 17: Zach Edey #14 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the Denver Nuggets on November 17, 2024 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Grizzlies' Edey week-to-week with sprained ankle

Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers received a $25,000 fine for publicly criticizing game offic...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers received a $25,000 fine for publicly criticizing game officials following Saturday's 115-114 loss to the Charlotte Hornets, the NBA announced Sunday.</p><p>Rivers made his critical comments after referees called a foul on Bucks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> with 7.3 seconds remaining, rewarding Hornets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a> with the game-winning free throws.</p><p>"I thought the final play was the ref blowing a call," Rivers said postgame, per <a href="https://apnews.com/article/bucks-hornets-call-doc-rivers-38f761b8f8a45680252cb22626b63e17">Steve Reed of The Associated Press</a>. "This is back-to-back games now where on the final play there has been an incorrect call made."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">1. This is the second time in 4 days the refs have been making terrible calls on the bucks<br><br>Lamelo obviously trips right here, but it’s called a foul on Giannis.<br><br>Even the hornets announcers admitted to it<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/CeiFkDHGK9">pic.twitter.com/CeiFkDHGK9</a></p>— Crumbletakes (@Crumbletakes) <a href="https://twitter.com/Crumbletakes/status/1857914636072329344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The game's crew chief, Curtis Blair, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3130622" href="https://thescore.com/news/3130622">admitted</a> the refs made an error by calling a foul on Antetokounmpo.</p><p>"During live play we called illegal leg-to-leg contact," Blair said, according to <a href="https://x.com/rodboone/status/1857937740001595539">Rod Boone of the Charlotte Observer</a>. "During postgame review, when we looked at the play, there was no illegal contact on the play."</p><p>The NBA said in a recent last-two-minute report that officials also incorrectly called the Bucks for a foul with seconds remaining in a tied game against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday.</p><p>The Bucks sit 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 4-9 record.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 13: Doc Rivers head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts to a call during the first half of the game against the Detroit Pistons at Fiserv Forum on November 13, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Bucks' Rivers fined 25K for criticizing officials

Warning: Story contains offensive language  The NBA fined Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball $10...

<p><em>Warning: Story contains offensive language</em></p><p>The NBA fined Charlotte Hornets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a> $100,000 for making an offensive and derogatory comment following his team's 115-114 win against the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, the league announced.</p><p>Ball made the remark after being asked about how the Hornets defended Giannis Antetokounmpo when the Bucks star missed a pull-up jumper from the top of the key on the last play.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Yeah, we loaded up, no homo, but that's what we wanted," Ball <a href="https://x.com/dphoop2425/status/1858231900290052221">said</a> on the live broadcast. "Put the hand up and just live with the results."</p><p>Hornets head coach Charles Lee told reporters Sunday that he spoke with Ball and that the 23-year-old was "very apologetic," per <a href="https://x.com/rodboone/status/1858268994051924048">Rod Boone of the Charlotte Observer</a>.</p><p>"I look forward to seeing him grow from this moment, but I definitely did just want to start off by saying we apologize," Lee added.</p><p>Prior to Antetokounmpo's miss, Ball converted two free throws with 7.1 seconds left to put the Hornets up by a point. However, officiating crew chief Curtis Blair <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3130622" href="https://thescore.com/news/3130622">admitted</a> postgame that the referees incorrectly called illegal leg-to-leg contact against Giannis. Bucks coach Doc Rivers told reporters after the loss that he believed "the final play was the ref blowing a call."</p>

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 16: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets reacts to a call during the first half of a basketball game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Spectrum Center on November 16, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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LaMelo fined $100K for derogatory postgame comment

The second annual in-season tourney, the NBA Cup, resumed Friday with 12 games in group play. For...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tourney, the NBA Cup, resumed Friday with 12 games in group play. For an explanation of how the tourney works, including the breakdown of the groups, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><p>To see what happened when the tournament got underway Tuesday, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3125424" href="https://thescore.com/news/3125424">here</a>.</p><h3>Friday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Pacers 111-124 <strong>Heat</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Magic</strong> 98-86 76ers</li>
<li>Raptors 95-99 <strong>Pistons</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Hawks</strong> 129-117 Wizards</li>
<li>
<strong>Cavaliers</strong> 144-126 Bulls</li>
<li>
<strong>Knicks</strong> 124-122 Nets</li>
<li>Spurs 115-120 <strong>Lakers</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Rockets</strong> 125-104 Clippers</li>
<li>
<strong>Pelicans</strong> 101-94 Nuggets</li>
<li>
<strong>Thunder</strong> 99-83 Suns</li>
<li>
<strong>Warriors</strong> 123-118 Grizzlies</li>
<li>Kings 126-130 <strong>T-Wolves</strong>
</li>
</ul><p>Check out our <a href="thescore:///nba/scores">NBA scores page</a> for box score recaps for each game and the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for group standings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Top performers</h3><p><strong>Anthony Davis (Lakers):</strong> Davis put on a show Friday night against San Antonio, outdueling Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama. The Kentucky product dropped a season-high 40 points to go along with 12 rebounds and two blocks. Davis is the first Laker to start a season with 11 consecutive 20-point games since Shaquille O'Neal accomplished the feat in the 1998-99 campaign.</p><p><strong>Cam Thomas (Nets): </strong>The Nets may have come up short tonight, but that was not for a lack of trying on Thomas' part. The fourth-year guard erupted in the first quarter for 19 points while going 5-for-5 from three and 7-for-7 from the floor. He finished the first half with 27 points and added another 16 in the second to finish the game with 43. He also put up three assists, two rebounds, one steal, and one block while tying his career high with seven 3-pointers. Thomas is the fifth visiting player ever with multiple 40-plus-point games at Madison Square Garden before turning 24 years old. He dropped 41 points, six assists, and splashed four threes in his previous visit to MSG last season.</p><p><strong>Bam Adebayo (Heat): </strong>Adebayo tallied 30 points, 11 boards, seven assists, and five steals to help the Heat bounce back from a brutal loss in their NBA Cup opener. Adebayo joined LeBron James and Eddie Jones as the only players in franchise history to produce such a stat line, according to <a href="https://x.com/statmuse/status/1857609725849788659">StatMuse</a>. The Kentucky product scored 17 points in the fourth quarter to help Miami pull away from the Pacers.</p><p><strong>De'Aaron Fox (Kings):</strong> Fox went nuclear in the fourth quarter of Sacramento's overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, leading the charge - without DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk - as the Kings put together a 19-2 run at the beginning of the final frame. The 26-year-old dropped a franchise-record 60 points to help eradicate a 20-point second-half deficit. The last player to score 50 or more in a Kings uniform was DeMarcus Cousins in 2016-17. Fox added seven assists and three steals to his record-breaking performance.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><p>The Knicks and Nets were in a dogfight down the stretch. Dennis Schroder seemed to give Brooklyn the edge when he splashed a three from the corner to give his team a one-point lead with 11.5 seconds remaining. That's when Jalen Brunson took matters into his own hands, draining the game-winning 3-pointer over former teammate Dorian Finney-Smith. Schroder attempted to take it the other way for the tie but was blocked at the rim by Mikal Bridges. An electric finish brought to you by former Villanova Wildcats.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 JALEN BRUNSON WINS IT FOR NEW YORK 🚨 <a href="https://t.co/09RSbhs3Qj">pic.twitter.com/09RSbhs3Qj</a></p>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1857626747144917058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><p>The Pistons have had the worst record in the NBA for two straight seasons, haven't made the postseason since 2019, and haven't finished above .500 since the 2015-16 campaign. In its inaugural year, the NBA Cup provided a stage for a young Pacers squad, giving them the confidence to make an Eastern Conference finals run. Could Detroit replicate that success? It's too early to say, but this competition is giving Detroit fans meaningful basketball for the first time in nearly a decade.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">PUT IT IN THE RAFTERS!!!!!! <a href="https://t.co/5kHLYF6pGm">pic.twitter.com/5kHLYF6pGm</a></p>— Kofie (@Kofie) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kofie/status/1857613312462029146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>Chris Paul continues to drop dimes at age 39. The veteran floor general joined John Stockton and Jason Kidd as the only players in NBA history to tally 12,000 assists. Paul finished Friday's contest against the Los Angeles Lakers with 11 assists, including a lob to Wembanyama to reach the elusive milestone. Paul is now only 83 dimes away from passing Kidd for second on the NBA's all-time list.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The NBA Cup continues Tuesday with six games, and all eyes should be on Boston as Jayson Tatum and the Celtics welcome Donovan Mitchell and the first-place Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p><em>Tap the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for the latest group standings.</em></p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 15: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks celebrates victory over the Brooklyn Nets at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2024 in New York City.

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NBA Cup roundup: Brunson's heroics help Knicks top rival Nets

Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball will be unavailable for at least another week as he continues to r...

<p>Chicago Bulls guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53246" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53246">Lonzo Ball</a> will be unavailable for at least another week as he continues to recover from a wrist injury, head coach Billy Donovan told <a href="https://x.com/KCJHoop/status/1857561048187892080">K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network</a> on Friday.</p><p>The team had originally targeted Sunday against the Houston Rockets as a possible return date. Ball has missed Chicago's previous eight contests due to the injury.</p><p>The situation remains fluid, and doctors have told the team the timeline for Ball's recovery could vary from two-to-six weeks, Donovan added, according to <a href="https://x.com/KCJHoop/status/1857561519975784595">Johnson</a>. The UCLA product has been able to dribble and shoot but struggles to catch passes without pain and has yet to play against a live defense.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ball returned on opening night after missing two-and-a-half years with recurring knee problems, which included three separate surgeries. He's participated in three games and is averaging 4.7 points, 3.7 assists, and 2.7 rebounds.</p><p>The 5-7 Bulls sit sixth in the Eastern Conference and will play the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers in NBA Cup action Friday night.</p>

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - OCTOBER 28: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Chicago Bulls looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on October 28, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee.

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Lonzo out at least another week due to wrist injury

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama became the fourth-youngest player in NBA history to re...

<p>San Antonio Spurs center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> became the fourth-youngest player in NBA history to record a 50-point game in Wednesday's 139-130 win against the Washington Wizards.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A HISTORIC night for Wemby. <br><br>🔥 Career-high 50 PTS<br>🔥 Career-high 8 3PM<br>🔥 Fourth-youngest player to score 50<br>🔥 First Spurs player with 50+ PTS and 5+ 3PM <a href="https://t.co/mCSSssKWPQ">pic.twitter.com/mCSSssKWPQ</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1856907062489362896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Total</th>
<th>Years</th>
<th>Days</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Jennings</td>
<td>55</td>
<td>20 Years</td>
<td>52 Days</td>
<td>Bucks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>56</td>
<td>20 Years</td>
<td>80 Days</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>20 Years</td>
<td>145 Days</td>
<td>Suns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>20 Years</td>
<td>314 Days</td>
<td>Spurs</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The 20-year-old hit the milestone (and finished there) with over eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, on 18-of-29 shooting. He's the eighth Spur to reach the 50-point mark in a game, joining David Robinson, George Gervin, LaMarcus Aldridge, Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, Terry Cummings, and Larry Kenon.</p><p>The only other players to score at least 50 points this season are the Orlando Magic's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102767" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102767">Paolo Banchero</a> and Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The French phenom also made a career-high eight 3-pointers in the contest. It's the third consecutive game in which Wembanyama's made at least six triples. He added six rebounds and three blocks. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93907" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93907">Devin Vassell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102806" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102806">Julian Champagnie</a> added 17 and 12 points, respectively.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60514" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60514">Jordan Poole</a>'s 42 points led the way for Washington.</p><p>The Spurs improved to 6-6 and will host the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Cup on Friday. </p><p>The Wizards sit 13th in the Eastern Conference at 2-7 and will play their opening in-season tourney contest against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TX - NOVEMBER 13: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs passes the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards on November 13, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos byGarrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Wemby becomes 4th-youngest player with 50-point game in win over Wizards

The second annual in-season tourney, the NBA Cup, began Tuesday with eight games in group play. F...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tourney, the NBA Cup, began Tuesday with eight games in group play. For an explanation of how the tourney works, including the breakdown of the groups, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><h3>Tuesday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Celtics 116-117 <strong>Hawks</strong> (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127054" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127054">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Pistons</strong> 123-121 Heat (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127068" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127068">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Magic</strong> 114-89 Hornets (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127061" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127061">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>76ers 99-111 <strong>Knicks</strong> (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127093" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127093">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Bucks</strong> 99-85 Raptors (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127118" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127118">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>Jazz 112-120 <strong>Suns</strong> (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127150" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127150">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Warriors</strong> 120-117 Mavs (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127221" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127221">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Blazers</strong> 122-108 T-Wolves (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127209" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127209">Recap</a>)</li>
</ul><h3>Top performers</h3><p><strong>Tyler Herro (Heat): </strong>Herro's efforts nearly lifted Miami to a dramatic comeback win over the Detroit Pistons. The Heat guard finished with a season-high 40 points, including six triples in the fourth quarter to erase a 14-point deficit and force overtime. He knocked down 10 threes overall to set a new single-game franchise record. Herro's contested basket with 1.8 seconds remaining in the extra frame would've been the game-winner had Miami made one more defensive stand.</p><p><strong>Dyson Daniels (Hawks): </strong>Daniels stepped up in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60633" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60633">Trae Young</a>'s absence, posting a career-high 28 points, seven assists, six steals, and three boards to lead the Hawks to a stunning road win over the Boston Celtics. The third-year guard is the first NBA player to register at least 35 steals through their first 10 appearances of the season since Baron Davis and Allen Iverson in 2003-04.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Steph Curry (Warriors): </strong>Curry spoiled <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a>'s Bay Area homecoming. The two-time MVP dropped 37 points - including a personal 12-3 fourth-quarter run - on 14-of-27 shooting from the field to go along with his nine assists and six rebounds. Curry embraced his former Splash Bro, who recorded a season-high 22 points, after the final whistle blew.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><p>Toronto Raptors center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62057" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62057">Bruno Fernando</a> uncorked a wicked poster over Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>. The journeyman center also had his best game in a Raptors uniform, recording season highs in points (eight), rebounds (13), and blocks (two).</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OH MY GOODNESS BRUNO 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/6E9MT4vv5s">pic.twitter.com/6E9MT4vv5s</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1856528928715755589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><p>Hundreds of Golden State Warriors employees were waiting for Thompson to arrive at the Chase Center for his first game against the Warriors since he joined the Dallas Mavericks. The staff members were sporting sailor hats in homage to Thompson's well-known hobby of boating.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Must watch video 🚨 🚨🚨 Salute to Captain Klay, hundreds of <a href="https://twitter.com/warriors?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@warriors</a> team employees greeted Klay Thompson as he entered the arena. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubNation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubNation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubsOn7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubsOn7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/abc7newsbayarea?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abc7newsbayarea</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ESPNNBA</a> <a href="https://t.co/eZt1mtb8Wt">pic.twitter.com/eZt1mtb8Wt</a></p>— Chris Alvarez (@CAlvarezABC7) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAlvarezABC7/status/1856492962999591088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>You've got to love shooting variance. The Portland Trail Blazers picked up a crucial 122-108 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, knocking down 18-of-32 (56%) of their attempts from deep. Portland shot just 4-of-42 (9%) from the land beyond in its previous game, managing just 89 points in a 45-point loss.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The NBA Cup resumes Friday with a dozen matchups, highlighted by a West Group B clash in South-Central Texas between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> and the Los Angeles Lakers and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> and the San Antonio Spurs.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 12: Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks guards former teammate Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on November 12, 2024 in San Francisco, California. This is Thompson's first game back in Golden State after he was traded to Dallas after last season. 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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NBA Cup roundup: Curry spoils Klay's return to Golden State

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra had an epic gaffe in the closing moments of Miami's 123-121 ...

<p>Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra had an epic gaffe in the closing moments of Miami's 123-121 overtime loss to the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night.</p><p>The Heat had a two-point lead with 1.8 seconds remaining in the extra frame. Miami gave up a wide-open, game-tying alley-oop dunk to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102754" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102754">Jalen Duren</a> after rushing to remove a sixth player from the floor. Spoelstra proceeded to attempt to call a timeout despite not having any left. Detroit was awarded a technical foul free throw as a result and veteran guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44947" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44947">Malik Beasley</a> calmly knocked down the eventual winner.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">What a disaster for the Heat. <br><br>-Had six guys on the floor for the last possession. Barely got one guy off. <br>-Then they give up a lob dunk to allow the Pistons to tie. <br>-Spo calls a timeout he doesn't have<br>-Pistons make the technical FT to win the game. <a href="https://t.co/cpmeJ0HDTz">pic.twitter.com/cpmeJ0HDTz</a></p>— Steph Noh (@StephNoh) <a href="https://twitter.com/StephNoh/status/1856529750686101897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Pistons were also awarded the ball with 1.1 seconds remaining due to the excessive timeout call.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"J.B. (Bickerstaff) just drew up a great play. We didn't have the backside protected. It was just a really well-executed play," Spoelstra told the media in his postgame interview, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/WorldWideWob/status/1856535752500277320">SiriusXNBA's Rob Perez</a>.</p><p>"I just made a serious mental error there at the end," he continued. "That's on me. I feel horrible about it. There's really no excuse for that. I'm 17 years in. ... I knew we didn't have anything. I just got emotional and reactive on that and I just made a horrendous mistake there at the end."</p><p>Miami was able to claw back from a 14-point deficit thanks to six fourth-quarter triples from guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a>. The Kentucky product finished the game with a season-high 40 points, including a franchise-record 10 made 3-pointers.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> led the way for Detroit, tallying 21 points and nine assists.</p><p>The Heat fall to 4-6 (0-1 in NBA Cup play) while Detroit vaults them in the standings, improving to 5-7 (1-0 in Cup action).</p><p>The Heat continue NBA Cup action next, facing the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis on Friday night. The Pistons will take on the 3-8 Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.</p>

DETROIT, MI - NOOVEMBER 12: Miami Heat Head Coach Erik Spoelstra looks on during the Emirates NBA Cup game on November 12, 2024 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. 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 2024 NBAE

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Spoelstra's blunder gifts Pistons OT win in NBA Cup opener

The Indiana Pacers announced Sunday that point guard Andrew Nembhard will miss the next two weeks...

<p>The Indiana Pacers announced Sunday that point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102757" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102757">Andrew Nembhard</a> will miss the next two weeks with a sore knee, and wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93847" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93847">Aaron Nesmith</a> won't be back until at least December due to an ankle sprain.</p><p>Nembhard's sore knee has been a recurring issue, keeping him out of two of the last four Pacers games.</p><p>The Canadian signed a three-year, $59-million extension with the club over the summer. Nembhard's averaging 7.3 points and 4.7 assists while shooting 38.5% from the field this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Nesmith has missed three consecutive contests since suffering an ankle sprain in the Pacers' loss to the New Orleans Pelicans last week. The 25-year-old is averaging 9.2 points and shooting 54.5% from deep.</p><p>Indiana inserted third-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102759" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102759">Bennedict Mathurin</a> into the starting lineup the previous four games to cover the absences of Nembhard and Nesmith.</p><p>"There's a great opportunity here for our younger guys to step up," head coach Rick Carlisle told <a href="https://x.com/Pacers/status/1855718493448007898">Pacers sideline reporter Jeremiah Johnson</a> Sunday.</p><p>The Pacers have already lost centers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93886" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93886">James Wiseman </a>and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96062" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96062">Isaiah Jackson</a> for the season, with both tearing their Achilles tendons. Indiana also ruled out forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93853" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93853">Obi Toppin</a> from Sunday's clash against the New York Knicks due to an ankle injury.</p><p>The 4-5 Pacers sit fifth in the Eastern Conference.</p>

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 28: Andrew Nembhard #2 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles the ball against against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Kia Center on October 28, 2024 in Orlando, Florida.

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Pacers' Nembhard out 2 weeks; Nesmith unavailable until December

Sixers All-Star Paul George is staying optimistic despite the team's dreadful 1-7 start to the 20...

<p>Sixers All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> is staying optimistic despite the team's dreadful 1-7 start to the 2024-25 campaign.</p><p>"You just (have to) remain positive," George said after Philadelphia's 116-106 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, according to <a href="https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/sixers-injuries-joel-embiid-tyrese-maxey-paul-george-record-20241110.html?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_campaign=edit_social_share_twitter_traffic&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_term=&amp;int_promo=">Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer</a>.</p><p>The nine-time All-Star had nine points on 4-of-13 shooting from the field in just his third game with the team.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We have one of the best big men in the game coming back to join us soon," George continued. "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese (Maxey)</a> will get healthy, and then we'll finally be a complete team that can start to build and figure (out) who we really are at that point."</p><p>He added: "(The) ship hasn't sunk. ... We're still showing up trying to get prepared to win games with just a little more focus, a little more attention to detail and just continue to grow with confidence."</p><p>The Sixers have been battered by injuries - and off-court drama - this season. </p><p>George joined Philly in the summer, inking a four-year, $212-million deal with the club. He was unable to play in the opening five games of the campaign after suffering a hyperextended knee in preseason action.</p><p>Former MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> has yet to play this campaign as he continues to rehab his left knee. Philadelphia was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3112410" href="https://thescore.com/news/3112410">fined</a> $100,000 for public statements by team officials that were "inconsistent" with Embiid's health status.</p><p>The 30-year-old Embiid was also given a three-game suspension for shoving a Philadelphia columnist. He is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3119527" href="https://thescore.com/news/3119527">reportedly</a> targeting the Sixers' first NBA Cup game on Nov. 12 against the New York Knicks for his season debut.</p><p>Meanwhile, Maxey - who also signed a massive deal with Philadelphia during the offseason - will be out approximately two weeks after an MRI confirmed a right hamstring strain Thursday. The Sixers have only had two of their three All-Stars available for two contests through the first eight games of the year.</p><p>"It's hard to be super excited and happy," Sixers rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121672" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121672">Jared McCain</a> told Pompey. "But for this group, we have a lot of vets, and they've all been here, done that. ... We're going to continue to work, and we're going to get over this hump."</p><p>Philadelphia is currently on a five-game losing streak and is the only team in the NBA with less than two wins. The Sixers host the 4-5 Charlotte Hornets on Sunday night.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 08: Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts after a 76ers foul during a 116-106 Los Angeles Lakers win at Crypto.com Arena on November 08, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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George: The 'ship hasn't sunk' after Sixers' 1-7 start

Devin Vassell made his season debut off the bench Saturday during the San Antonio Spurs' 111-110 ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93907" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93907">Devin Vassell</a> made his season debut off the bench Saturday during the San Antonio Spurs' 111-110 loss to the Utah Jazz.</p><p>Vassell checked in at the 5:35 mark of the first quarter. He finished the game with 21 points, two assists, and a rebound in 22 minutes.</p><p>The 24-year-old had yet to play this campaign as he recovered from offseason foot surgery. Vassell made his last appearance March 29 of last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Florida State product will provide San Antonio more wing depth after forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102789" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102789">Jeremy Sochan</a> was sidelined indefinitely following surgery to repair a fractured thumb.</p><p>Vassell averaged career highs in points (19.5), assists (4.1), and field-goal percentage (47.2%) in 68 games last season. The former lottery pick inked a five-year, $146-million extension with the Spurs last October.</p><p>The Spurs have been playing without legendary head coach Gregg Popovich since Nov. 2 as he recovers from an unspecified health issue.</p><p>San Antonio fell to 4-7 with the defeat.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TX - NOVEMBER 9: Devin Vassell #24 of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles the ball during the game against the Utah Jazz on November 9, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Spurs' Vassell makes season debut vs. Jazz

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