Category: Basketball

LeBron James has had a busy summer thus far. While everyone awaits his announcement of which team he will play for next, he was honored with the cover of Time magazine's "TIME100 Most Influential People in Sports."

In his unrehearsed speech, he discussed the importance of sports and how they got him to where he is today. He also took a personal moment in which he spoke on his gratitude for the University of Southern California medical staff that saved his son.

James' eldest son, Bronny, attended USC during the 2023-24 season. James' son suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during a summer basketball workout at USC on July 24, 2023.

Bronny was diagnosed with a functionally significant congenital heart defect.

"Shout out my oldest son Bronny. ... We just had the story obviously with Damar (Hamlin), you know, those guys come up here, talk about cardiac arrest and how important that is. Our son went through something like that a few years ago at USC," the 41-year-old James said. "And obviously, if it wasn't for the coaching staff and the medical team and everybody at USC being there in a timely fashion, we'd possibly be sitting here without our son, our oldest son. So thank you to everybody and all the efforts when it comes to cardiac arrest."

Bronny made a full recovery and played his freshman year with the Trojans, albeit in limited minutes. He went on to become the 55th overall selection in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, with Bronny and LeBron James then becoming the first father-son duo to share an NBA court.

"Guys, take that serious. If you got kids in elementary, you got kids in middle school, kids in high school, colleges. Make sure they have these devices available where you can get them, practice them. It's very important, super, super important. Obviously, we know how important it is to our family, so we're a big advocate of that," LeBron James said.

Although the elder James will no longer play for the Lakers, his firstborn will remain in LA after his contract with the Lakers became fully guaranteed for $2.3 million on June 30. The 21-year-old has a contract that will pay him this year, with a team option to keep him until his deal expires in 2028.

In the 2025-26 campaign, his second NBA season, Bronny James averaged 2.9 points, 1.2 assists, 0.5 steals in 8.9 minutes per game. He shot 40.9% from the field, 38.6% on 3-point field goals and 85.7% from the free throw line.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: LeBron James shouts out Bronny, USC medical staff in TIME 100 speech

While they were hoping for a playoff spot, the Summer League Toronto Raptors’ 99-90 victory over the Miami heat tonight won’t clinch them a top-four spot. Sharing a 3-1 record with a number of other teams, the final seeding came down to point differential, which doesn’t fall in the Raptors’ favour. The narrow margin of their previous wins and their victory tonight just won’t cut it.

While disappointing, Summer League isn’t over yet, and Toronto will play their final “consolation” game on Saturday, July 18 at a time that is to be determined.

Allen Graves continues to thrill as he led Toronto with 23-6-4. Seth Lundy also had a strong performance with 19-3-6 and is showing potential to find himself a contract somewhere. Bittle (13), Burnett (10), and Key (11) also scored in double figures. Everyone who checked in made a contribution to the stat sheet. 

Toronto was the first on the board in the first quarter and both teams went blow for blow for the 10-minute frame. Nathan Bittle opened up the scoring in the game with a long range shot. He showed his ability to make decisions  when being run off the line with an excellent start to the game. His rebounding and size continue to be his greatest assets and probably the things that will earn him a spot on the roster this year. 

Bittle is already up to 10 PTS. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/wVL7Rt1zgt

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) July 17, 2026

Without many stoppages, starters began to get winded with the pace of the game and timely substitutions brought back a little bit of the energy. Jamarion Sharp’s size helped create some highlight play as the frame expired:

JAMARION SHARP JUST TORE THE ROOF OFF. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/qPWPQSS7H7

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) July 17, 2026

In the second, Toronto was able to scratch back and build their own lead, with Seth Lundy making some more great shots we’ve become accustomed to. He stayed hot throughout the frame, knocking down shots with every opportunity he got.  

AND-ONE FROM BEYOND THE ARC. 😤 pic.twitter.com/YQgpFWcgVY

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) July 17, 2026

Allen Graves also started connecting from long range after struggling in the first frame from that distance. His court vision is the greatest thing that doesn’t stand out on a stat sheet. Reading who’s open and delivering great passes continue to demonstrate how he will fit in Toronto’s system. This was on full display throughout the entire first half as well

ALLEN GRAVES FROM DEEP. 🎯 pic.twitter.com/E4G230zJ0u

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) July 17, 2026

Toronto built a significant cushion by the midway point of the second frame, finding the bottom of the basket on almost everything, spending much of the quarter perfect from the floor. Going to the locker room, they boasted a 10 point lead. 

Miami made adjustments though, and started to fight back early on. Unlike the second, Toronto couldn’t convert anything in the first two minutes, giving up a 12-0 run for the Heat. Seth Lundy spearheading Toronto’s first points of the frame. 

SMOOTH FROM SETH. 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/nx0VARjSA9

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) July 17, 2026

The Raptors were able to stop the bleeding due to his shooting and scoring. Miami continued to charge back led by the tandem of Young and Tre White. Toronto had most of their leading scorers pulled from the floor at this point, once again resorting to a back and forth scoring stalemate. Tyreke Key tried to contribute, but struggled more in this matchup than his last couple games. A couple of incomplete putbacks were the lowlight from this quarter, but in the final minutes Toronto was able to pull back ahead. 

In the final frame, they were able to organize. The uncertainty and pressure to create as large a lead as possible seemed to set in. They finally built it to 10, but poor decision making and turning the ball over quickly made it disappear. This quarter was messy, with everyone making little plays that helped. The urgency wasn’t present for Toronto in the fading minutes of the match and some meandering play meant the game closed with only a nine point lead, a mere five points short of qualifying for the semifinal game.

The Summer League Hawks had a matchup on Thursday evening against the Memphis Grizzlies that could have some huge implications. Coming into the game, the Hawks were undefeated at 3-0, while the Grizzlies were 2-1. If the Hawks won, they would automatically clinch a spot in the Summer League tournament, and even if they lost, they’d still have a chance, but it would have to be a point-differential situation.

The Hawks didn’t have Kingston Flemings, Zuby Ejiofor and Asa Newell, while Jacob Toppin (not with team), RayJ Dennis (Achilles) and Keshon Gilbert (adductor) were also out with injuries.

Starting 🖐️ for Game 4️⃣ in Vegas:

Isaiah Wong
Isaac McKneely
Kobe Johnson
Devon Higgs
Henri Veesaar

— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) July 16, 2026

As for the Grizzlies, all of their players were active, which included No. 3 pick Cameron Boozer.

It’s obvious that the Hawks didn’t have their top players in this one because the first quarter was probably one of the worst ones in Summer League History. The Hawks started out the game shooting 0-6 from the field with eight turnovers, and the Grizzlies got out to an 18-0 run.

Grizzlies are playing like a team that is playing their good players, and the Hawks are playing like a team that rested their good players.

Memphis just bullying their way to easy layups.

— Kevin Chouinard (@KLChouinard) July 17, 2026

The Hawks didn’t score their first point until three minutes left in the first, and going into the second, they trailed the Grizzlies 32-2.

The good news for the Hawks is that things could only get better in the second quarter, and they did. The Grizzlies were still hot to start the quarter, but the Hawks settled in a little bit on both sides of the ball. It was the defense that stuck out the most, and Kobe Johnson had some good reps on Boozer to slow him down a little.

The Hawks went on a 9-0 run late in the quarter and cut their deficit down to as much as 23 points, but the Grizzlies got back into a groove to extend their lead again. Going into halftime, the Hawks trailed 51-22.

It was another rough start to a quarter for the Hawks, as the Grizzlies extended their lead in the third, getting whatever they wanted in the paint, while also knocking down shots from the perimeter. Throughout the game, the Hawks also lost one of their guards, as Isaac McKneely was ruled out with a right shoulder injury.

Going into the fourth, the Hawks trailed 76-42.

At this point, the Hawks were just trying to get their deficit down to less than 16 points so they could have a chance of making it to the playoffs. Unfortunately, the Grizzlies were able to maintain their large lead, and the Hawks couldn’t do much to cut into it.

Isaiah Wong finished the game with 20 points, and Zeke Mayo finished with 10 points.

The Hawks will be back in action on Saturday for their consolation game.

The Nets Summer League tournament run ended in a 100-83 loss to the Houston Rockets on Thursday, but not before a fourth-quarter surge nearly turned the tide. Despite trailing by 21, Brooklyn’s best was a 10-point deficit with a little more than three minutes in the fourth.

Dëmin finished the game with 21 points on 8-of-20 shooting.

Egor Dëmin looks like one of the only Nets out there semi-comfortable with the game's physicality right now. Making things happen at both ends. pic.twitter.com/Za5fsI3nRh

— Collin Helwig (@collinhelwig) July 16, 2026

It wasn’t only Egor that sparked a little life. Brooklyn played better defense and forced five turnovers in the final five minutes — including an eight-second violation. Dëmin’s step-back jumper at the 3:31 mark brought Brooklyn within 10 points at 87-77, which was the closest they would get.

Mikel Brown Jr. was met with physicality and endured his toughest summer showing, going 3-of-15 in 27 minutes. Meanwhile, Drake Powell couldn’t carry over his recent momentum, finishing just 1-of-6. The effort was there… but the shots just didn’t fall.

With the loss, the Nets were eliminated from Summer League championship contention. However, Brooklyn’s Summer League schedule is not over — the team will play one final consolation game this weekend. 

The date, time, and opponent have yet to be announced.

For the Rockets, Bruce Thornton was the leader of the pack with 23 points, Tristen Newton added 20 points and six rebounds, and Isaiah Crawford recorded 12 points and eight rebounds before his fourth-quarter ejection.

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What’s up with Michael Porter Jr.?

Speculation is heating up. In his discussion with reporters two days ago, Sean Marks painted a positive picture of the Nets situation with Michael Porter Jr.

“I’m sure we’ll have those discussions. I think we’ve got time. There’s no immediate hurry right now with Mike. We value him a lot. He had a terrific year last year, arguably his best year as a pro. I give him a lot of credit for that,” Marks said. “It’s been great to see what Mike’s done for us. I look forward to having those discussions, and seeing what Mike can do the rest of the summer and the rest of the season.”

Marks added he won’t rush any decisions at all.

However, Chris Haynes, senior analyst for TNT, suggests that if the Nets and Porter can’t come to an agreement, a trade might be in the works.

“Michael Porter Jr’s agent…is scheduled to meet with the Brooklyn Nets…towards the tail end of summer league or at the end of summer league to begin dialogue on an extension,” said Haynes on NBA TV’s “The Association” Wednesday. “If it becomes apparent early on that an extension is not in play, then I do believe the next step will be the Brooklyn Nets and Michael Porter Jr potentially parting ways and potentially looking to move him.”

Read the full story here.

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Undrafted rookie Jaden Akins gave the Knicks 21 points off the bench, but it wasn't enough as the Warriors defeated New York, 87-77, on Thursday night.

New York is now 1-2 in Summer League action.

But the night was competitive in the first half. Golden State got out to a 26-19 lead after one, but then the offense on both sides took a nose dive. The Knicks won the quarter, 17-10, to get the game tied 36-36 at halftime.

Tyler Nickel led the Knicks at halftime with nine points on 3 of 5 shooting (all from the three-point line).

Pacome Dadiet had six while Liam Robbins posted five points and six rebounds, and Dillon Jones grabbed five points and five rebounds. Jack Kayil struggled, scoring just two points on 1 of 5 shooting, coming down with four rebounds and dishing two assists in his 15 minutes to round out the starting five.

On the other side, LJ Cryer roasted the Knicks, scoring 11 points on 4 of 8 shooting (3-for-7 from three) to lead all scorers at the halfway point. 

The third quarter saw the Warriors get out to a lead thanks to a 7-0 run to start, but the Knicks fought back, chipping away. However, Golden State took a 65-57 lead into the final frame. The Warriors would pull away early in the fourth, building a 16-point lead that the Knicks would try to cut into, but whenever New York did -- getting it to 10 points -- Golden State punched back and held on for the 10-point win.

The Knicks starters did not have a great night. Nickel was stuck at nine points in his 31 minutes on the court while Dadiet posted just nine in his 28 minutes. Robbins was the only starter with a positive plus/minus as he dropped 13 points to go along with nine rebounds, four blocks and two assists in his 20 minutes. 

Jones finished with five points and Kayil's struggles carried over into the second half. The 2026 draft pick scored just two more points and was 2 of 9 from the field in his 29 minutes. He did come down with five rebounds and dished four assists, but was a minus-9 on the day. 

As for Akins, he led the entire Knicks team in scoring. He was 9 of 20 from the field (3 of 8 from three) with two rebounds and one assist. The former Michigan State guard had a better showing than his Summer League debut when he finished with just two points in 21 minutes. 

Akins, who was a G-League All-Star a season ago, averaged 16.1 points, 4.0 rebounds and 7.6 assists in 14 games. 

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Raptors fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

This week’s survey questions the average Raptors fan’s initial reaction to the selection of Allen Graves. After General Manager and Vice-President Bobby Webster used the No. 19 pick on the Santa Clara product, the decision met with a mostly confused reception. Toronto already has Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles in the ‘jumbo wing that hounds defensively and bullies offensively” archetype.

With the Raptors headed into their fourth final Summer League game on Thursday against the Miami Heat, Allen Graves is averaging 14.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 3.3 stocks (steals and blocks), while shooting 51.4 per cent from the field and 43.7 per cent from three.

Cast your vote, tell us in the comments, and we’ll be back soon with more Reacts.

The question of where LeBron James will play next has lingered for about three weeks after he told the Los Angeles Lakers that he'd opt for a new team in free agency.

The news sent the basketball world into a frenzy. As teams and players are all making their pitch to James in hopes that he'd join their team, there are some that are wishing he'd wrap this process up.

Most notably, NBA commissioner Adam Silver.

Silver spoke at the CNBC Sport x Boardroom Game Plan Summit in New York and addressed James' decision-making process in an interview with CNBC’s Andrew Ross Sorkin. He expressed his desire for James to make a selection so that the league can continue with its business ahead of the 2026-27 season.

"I guess all politics are local. The way I think about it is, we have to finish up the schedule," Silver said. " And where LeBron plays will affect the schedule. So I would like him to make his announcement already, so we can finish the schedule, because, as you might imagine, the teams are calling us, the networks are calling us, and everybody wants to lock in the schedule. But it will influence how we set the schedule, how we set opening week, Christmas Day, etc. So I need him to make a decision."

LEBRON JAMES DECISION: Latest rumors on when star chooses next team

Silver: 'No inside information' on James' destination

When it comes to predicting James' next destination, Silver's guess is as good as ours.

"The direct answer is, I have no inside information," Silver said at the CNBC Sport x Boardroom Game Plan Summit. " I have my own inkling, but it's not based — it's not based on anything that LeBron or Rich have told me. I'm not going to share it with you, but I'm just saying, it's not, it's, I don't know."

Silver is a fan of the game. He's not rooting for James to join one team over another, but rather the best storyline leading into next season and to end his career.

"There's certain stories that I prefer over others, and even on his behalf. But he's going to be 42 this fall. It's amazing what he's done for the sport, for the league, and he deserves exactly what -- the opportunities that were presented to him to be able to make his own decision on what's best for him and his family. So I completely respect that. But, as I said, I think on behalf of the league, I think there are certain storylines that may be better than others, but I don't want to prejudge it. Let's see what he does."

MIAMI HEAT: Welcome Giannis Antetokounmpo with new jersey. Could LeBron James be next?

Silver likes LeBron James with Cavaliers or Warriors

Silver doesn't happen to have any details on James' decision but that's not stopping him imagining different storylines and gauging which would be best, or coolest. He's a fan, too.

Sorkin threw two potential scenarios that James could lean towards: Cleveland and Golden State.

"Let's admit that's a great storyline," Silver said about James potentially going back home to play for the Cavaliers.

When Sorkin asked if Silver liked that storyline, he responded, "among others, yes."

One of those other storylines would be James teaming up with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green in Golden State, helping the Warriors pursue another championship ring.

"Well, the only part about it is, and, honestly, I mean, he played for Steve Kerr for the Olympic team. He's close to Draymond. Playing with Steph is wonderful. I don't think LeBron at this point in his career – and I think he presumably would say the same thing – he doesn't have to chase a ring. So I don't think ... it would be different," Silver said. "I mean, LeBron's career is complete. I think, on his behalf, whatever that storyline is, I think he should go somewhere he's going to – there's going to be true joy around the game."

He added: "And I think, again, for LeBron, at this point of his career, I think what we want the fans to see, too, is like the genuine joy that they have. And I think, for somebody like LeBron, I mean, he's – he's not coming back for the money. And that's why that, to your point, the latter part of your storyline in terms of the ring, I'm sure he would love to win another championship. But I think, most importantly, I think I would love, and fans would like him to see, where he's playing with a group of players and for a coach that he really wants to be around, and he's going to – and the community's going to get great joy from it, and he's going to get great joy from it."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: Why 2026-27 NBA schedule is in limbo until LeBron James picks new team

The NBA hasn’t released its official schedule for the upcoming season — and it’s because of LeBron James.

The four-time NBA champion has kept everyone in the industry on their toes as he makes a decision in free agency, including Commissioner Adam Silver.

Silver spoke at the 2026 CNBC Sport and Boardroom Game Plan Summit at Fanatics Fest in New York, where he revealed his eagerness for James to pick his next team.

“We have to finish up the schedule and where LeBron plays affects the schedule… It will influence how we set the schedule — opening week, Christmas. So I need him to make a decision,” Silver said.

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Count Adam Silver among those waiting on LeBron James to pick a team, he said at CNBC event.

“We have to finish up the schedule and where LeBron plays affects the schedule… It will influence how we set the schedule — opening week, Christmas. So I need him to make a decision.”

— Mike Vorkunov (@MikeVorkunov) July 16, 2026

The looming free-agency decision has certainly caused a league-wide frenzy as James could join several teams including the Warriors, Heat, 76ers and Cavaliers. His destination would affect any rival teams as the veteran remains a key contributor on the court.

James is coming off a season in which he averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists. He shot 51.5% from the field and 31.7% from beyond the 3-point arc. This summer, he informed the Lakers he would not return for the upcoming season.

Now, James is a free agent searching for complete basketball happiness.

The 41-year-old also attended Fanatics Fest, where he discussed the highly touted sweepstakes but kept his honest thoughts as mysterious as ever.

The hysteria surrounding James this summer is warranted, and it appears Silver can relate to basketball fans who are desperate to know where the NBA’s all-time leading scorer will end up next.

The Golden State Warriors have quickly gained popularity as LeBron James’ next team.

One incident which quickly went viral involved coach Steve Kerr, who told a fan that the Warriors “got” James.

Many wondered whether Kerr was being serious or playful in the video posted to social media. Draymond Green weighed in on the situation.

Draymond on viral Steve Kerr video:

“If I know Steve as well as I think I do, he was joking.” https://t.co/ElxGc6hZlHpic.twitter.com/YnvowsuZLN

— TheWarriorsTalk (@TheWarriorsTalk) July 16, 2026

“If I know Steve as well as I think I do, he was joking,” Green wrote in a post on Instagram Threads.

The reported favorites in the LeBron James sweepstakes are the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers. However, there is speculation that the Warriors are dark horses in the free agency frenzy.

Golden State seemingly lost traction as a favorite for the NBA’s all-time leading scorer after reports revealed the team wasn’t willing to strike a trade for Anthony Davis, James’ former Lakers teammate.

Perhaps the Warriors could explore a possible deal for Davis, which would certainly turn the tide in their favor. But as things stand, the three suitors appear to have an edge over the Warriors in the James sweepstakes.

Green seemingly played a role in the Warriors’ pursuit of James as he declined his $27.7 million player option to give the team more financial flexibility. There isn’t a guarantee Green will return to Golden State for the upcoming season, but that is at least the assumption.

James is expected to make a decision in the coming days, but until then, Warriors fans will continue dreaming.

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The Lakers booked their ticket to the Las Vegas Summer League Semifinals with a blowout win over the Chicago Bulls, 105-82, on Thursday afternoon. 

Chris Mañon continues to shine with his strong play. He has scored in double figures for three straight games. Cameron Carr’s offense has been a huge bright spot for this young Summer League squad. He has also been consistently scoring in double figures, making a strong case to be in the Lakers’ rotation when the season starts. 

Carr scored the first bucket for LA. It was also another fast start for Mañon, who scored four points early. All of Los Angeles’s starters, minus Adou Thiero, scored. Three players on the Bulls scored two points for their six in total. After a timeout, Thiero got on the board with an emphatic putback dunk.

The Lakers built a lead of six, but Chicago cut into it, making it a two-point game. Arthur Kaluma came in and drained a triple to give the team a small cushion on their lead. Los Angeles was shooting 35% from the field, while the Bulls were shooting 41%. 

At the end of the first, the purple and gold were up by three. 

The Lakers lead the Bulls 19-16 after one quarter of play. It’s been a balanced attack for LA, with seven players scoring.

— Edwin Garcia (@ECreates88) July 16, 2026

Carr started the second period with a steal that led to Jon Elmore draining a 3-pointer for LA. Chicago’s Jaylin Sellers and Caleb Wilson both had thunderous dunks that gave everyone a jolt. Carr was leading Los Angeles with seven points, and Elmore was close behind with six.

The Bulls called a timeout with 4:21 left after falling behind by nine. Zhaire Smith now had six off the bench for the Lakers. LA kept their feet on the gas pedal, expanding their lead to 16 into halftime. Mañon was the only Laker in double figures with 10. 

Los Angeles had a balanced scoring attack with everyone who saw minutes, minus Peter Suder, scoring. 

The Lakers lead 56-40 at the half. A 12-0 run broke the game wide open for LA. But they’ve been in control this entire contest and have never trailed. Chris Manon leads the Lakers in scoring with 10 points.

— Edwin Garcia (@ECreates88) July 16, 2026

Both teams started the third period chippy and aggressive. They ended the first half with some words for each other that clearly carried into the second half. Anton Watson started the scoring for LA with a layup. 

The Lakers completely took the Bulls out of the game with their strong defense, forcing Chicago to struggle offensively. Carr and Thiero were in double figures with 14 and 11, respectively. Wilson scored the last 10 points for the Bulls, but it didn’t matter as LA built a lead of 29 at the end of the third. 

Yeahhhh, Cam 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/Yin77PHqSk

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) July 16, 2026

AK Okereke started the final frame, converting on a three-point play, further extending Los Angeles’ lead. The rest of the quarter saw the Lakers cruise to their eventual victory. Robbie Avila also made his Summer League debut during the closing minutes. 

Key Player Stats: 

Mañon ended with 16 points and six rebounds. Carr finished with 14 points and three rebounds. Thiero notched 11 points with seven rebounds, four assists and two steals. 

Elmore logged 11 points with five assists. Smith had 11 points with two rebounds and three assists. Kaluma scored 14 points with four rebounds and three assists. Watson pitched in with eight points and four assists.

The next Lakers Summer League game will be in the semifinals, with information about that contest to be released later.

You can follow Karin on Twitter at @KarinAbcarians.

On the day that Gary Trent Jr.’s new deal with the Bucks was officially announced by the team, reports also state that the league will investigate it for possible salary cap circumvention.  

According to NBA insider Shams Charania, “The NBA is probing the signed $64 million free-agent deal for Gary Trent Jr. with the Milwaukee Bucks, per a league spokesperson.” Marc Stein reiterated the news, stating, “The Bucks officially announced the deal today and the NBA now says it is being looked into after Trent played the past two seasons on a sub-$4 million salary and dipped statistically in 2025-26.”

Yes, it seems it was too lucrative after all. And now, after all the good that has happened this offseason, we the Bucks have to navigate the summer with this cloud lingering over their heads.

Regarding the deal itself, Jake Fischer reported that it “is fully guaranteed. Year-to-year salary breakdown, per sources: $15.2 million for 2026-27, jumps up to $16.4 million for 2027-28 and 2028-29, then back down to $16 million in Year 4.”

Of course, the deal stunk the moment it was reported and there’s reason rumours of it surfaced long before it was officially reported.

For one, Trent’s play with the Bucks last season was arguably the worst of his career. After exploding in the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers in their 2025 first-round series, averaging 18.8 PPG, 2.2 RPG, and a league-leading 2.6 SPG, while shooting 52% from the field and 50% from three (on 8.8 attempts per game), Trent came into the 2025-26 season with high expectations and a starting role. But, after starting the season’s first 12 games, he quickly found himself relegated to the bench, where he would stay for much of the season. Overall, Trent’s 2025-26 campaign saw him average career lows across the board (excluding his rookie season where he played just 15 games): 8.1 points (on .387/.360/.769 splits), 1.0 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.5 SPG.

Two, following the trade that sent Giannis to the Miami Heat and the NBA Draft, the Bucks are loaded at the guard positions. Ryan Rollins, Kevin Porter Jr., and AJ Green were already ahead of Trent in the rotation and now, with Tyler Herro, Brayden Burries, and Kasparas Jakučionis also on board, Trent doesn’t figure to even sniff the hardwood. Throw in two-way guards Cormac Ryan, who showed out down the stretch last season, and Kam Jones, who’s had himself a solid Summer League, and there really is no on-court justification to keep Trent—especially at that price and on a deal of that length.

But there is something to say about keeping your word. And by following through with any “handshake agreement” they had, Jon Horst and his team have sent a message that the Bucks are an organisation that honours its word and looks after its players. Of course, Burries, like Trent, is a Klutch Sports Group client too. So, all of this could pay dividends down the road—or even in the short term, should the Bucks wind up with another Klutch client, Peyton Watson.

Still, at least for the time being, this is a bad look for the Bucks and if the Kawhi Leonard Aspiration investigation is anything to go by, it will linger.

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Bucks fans, where do you sit on the spectrum from “Meh” to “The house is burning down!”? Drop your thoughts in the comments.

The Miami Heat officially unveiled their new star.

Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo, acquired June 23 in a blockbuster trade with the Milwaukee Bucks, held his introductory press conference Thursday, July 16 at the Kaseya Center in Miami.

Later, in a photo shoot, the Heat showed off Antetokounmpo wearing his new uniform.

One difference is his jersey number. With the Heat, Antetokounmpo will wear No. 7, which is a departure from the No. 34 he wore with the Bucks.

Antetokounmpo explained the reason for the switch, saying he initially picked No. 34 because his mother was born in 1963 and his father was born in 1964. Now, with Miami, he opted to take the final digits of those two years and add them.

The jersey reveal y’all have been waiting for… pic.twitter.com/j50dAQEx04

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) July 16, 2026

“I felt like 34 holds so much weight and has so much history,” Antetokounmpo said during the press conference. “Out of respect to the organization that drafted me and that I played for 13 years, I decided to leave that number there and start a new chapter. Hopefully I can leave my mark here in Miami and make No. 7 as legendary as No. 34. But it’s almost like having closure for me, mentally and emotionally, just to have a closure from that number, because it meant a lot to me.

“No. 7 looks good, it’s fresh, it’s clean. I saw some kids running in the street with it. I’m excited to create more moments with that number.”

Clocking in for the first time ⏱️ pic.twitter.com/jMKcBo9yii

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) July 16, 2026

Here are some other notable things Antetokounmpo, Heat president Pat Riley and Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said Thursday:

Pat Riley hints at pursuit of LeBron James

Though he didn’t mention LeBron James by name, Riley spoke openly about the team’s pursuit of the 41 year old icon, who is an unrestricted free agent.

“(Heat executive vice president of basketball operations) Andy (Elisberg) called me and said we have a deal,” Riley said of the moment when Miami and the Bucks agreed to the Antetokounmpo trade. “We both sort of screamed out loud and said, ‘Yeah, we landed the plane.’ Now there’s another one we have to land.”

Riley was not-so-subtly referencing James, who played four seasons with the Heat from 2010-14 and who led the franchise to two NBA titles. Later in the press conference, when asked to clarify whether the comment about the other plane referenced James, Riley once again declined to name him specifically.

LEBRON JAMES DECISION: Latest rumors on when star chooses next team

“As far as the 24-year veteran, that is something that would happen organically,” Riley said. “I hope I’m not talking out of both sides of my mouth here, but you never know that you’re ever going to win a title until you win one. But you’ll never win one if you don’t have the talent and the coaching.

“We’re not here guaranteeing anything. But we want to win,” Riley added. “This is the team that we have right now, and I’m happy with it.”

Antetokounmpo says Heat is best path to another title

Antetokounmpo did not shy away from everything being new and uncertain, but he cited the culture at Miami as being a primary draw for him.

“It was a no-brainer,” Antetokounmpo said. “I wanted to be here. I’m excited to be here, and I want to get to work.”

Now with Heat captain Bam Adebayo, Antetokounmpo and Miami will try to compete in the Eastern Conference after the Heat have languished in the play-in picture for the past couple of seasons. While the Heat may struggle to shoot the ball from the perimeter, they project to be formidable on defense, with Adebayo, Antetokounmpo, forward Andrew Wiggins and point guard Davion Mitchell in the starting lineup.

“Obviously, I’ve accomplished a lot of things in my career, but one of my goals is to win another championship,” Antetokounmpo said. “I feel like this is the best route for me to do that."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Heat welcome Giannis Antetokounmpo with new jersey. Could LeBron James be next?

The NBA free agent news of the summer was LeBron James informing the Los Angeles Lakers he would not return for the upcoming season.

Now, the world is watching and waiting for James to make a decision on where he’ll sign next.

The 41-year-old made his first public appearance since leaving the Lakers at Fanatics Fest in New York, where he made an appearance on the “Mind the Game” podcast.

During his appearance, James took the time to thank the Lakers organization, specifically governor Jeanie Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka.

“Shout out my former team. I spent eight great years with the Los Angeles Lakers… That was an unbelievable ride and I am looking forward to what comes next as I wind down my journey. It’s going to be fun wherever I land,” James said.

LeBron James thanks Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka and everyone from the Lakers, then says of his free agency: “looking forward to what’s next as I wind down my basketball journey….it’s going to be pretty fun wherever I land.” He asks the crowd their opinion. hears Warriors, Heat… pic.twitter.com/pSEHpENsfF

— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) July 16, 2026

James also spoke with Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton and interacted with fans, who were curious to know what’s next for the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.

The LeBron era in LA ended earlier this summer and many wondered as to why. James, according to his agent Rich Paul, is pursuing complete basketball happiness in the twilight of his career.

It appears he couldn’t find that with the Lakers as the veteran continues to weigh his options in free agency. There is speculation the strained relationship between the Lakers and James began with the Russell Westbrook trade in the summer of 2021.

Regardless, both sides have seemingly moved on.

James and his camp have been extremely tight-lipped about the looming decision, but the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers and the dark horse Golden State Warriors are reportedly the finalists in the highly-touted sweepstakes.

At Fanatics Fest, James also revealed he’ll make a decision soon.

Only time will tell where he’ll land next.

The Dallas Mavericks had an early game Thursday, taking on the Oklahoma City Thunder in Summer League play at UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Arena. Dallas grabbed their second win of the summer, 97-87 after pulling away in the third quarter. Here are a few stats to know from what proved to be a fun game.

!!: Dunks off lobs

Ok, “!!” is not an actual number, but it was the best representation of the lob show Dallas put on throughout the game, without having the official stat count at the time of publication. Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu led the way with a seemingly endless supply of highlight reel slams, many of which came on the receiving end of beautiful lobs. One such lob came from just inside half court and he finished the job while falling out of bounds with most of his body behind the backboard.

13: Mavericks’ made 3-pointers

Along with the plentiful dunks this game, the Mavericks also rained in three-pointers at will. The left corner in the first half was a particularly lethal weapon for Dallas. John Poulakidas found his stroke after looking a bit rusty in the first three games, ending the night shooting 5-for-12 from deep. The Thunder eventually caught up with Dallas in this department, but it was too little too late.

14: Sergio De Larrea Assists

De Larrea has looked better every game. His shot was way off (1-for-8 overall), but the rest of his game looked significantly more comfortable than it did going back to the start of Summer League. His handle was better (three turnovers) and his court vision was on display as he found teammates again and again.

Coming into Thursday’s game, he was averaging seven assists per game in Summer League and outdid himself in this one by doubling that number up. He ended the afternoon just three assists shy of the Summer League single-game record (17), which is … wow.

10: Total number of blocked shots

Dallas turned away shots time and again with a long and rangy lineup throughout the game. Led by Jorge Diaz-Graham (three), the Mavericks had six players (of nine that played) record at least one block.

Overall, Dallas basically killed it at the rim, from beyond the arc, and defensively against the Thunder. Despite missing Morez Johnson, who again sat with ankle soreness, Dallas put together a great game that was surprisingly fun to watch.

I invite you to follow me @_80MPH on X, and check back often at Mavs Moneyball for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks.