Christian Braun exited the game last in the first half on Wednesday against the Los Angeles Clippers after rolling his ankle following a collision with James Harden near midcourt, and did not return to the game.
Braun is out much longer than that, he will be re-evaluated in six weeks due to a left ankle sprain, the Nuggets have announced.
Braun started all 11 games for the Nuggets, averaging 11.4 points a night, plus taking on key defensive assignments on the perimeter. The Nuggets have been 10.7 points per 100 possessions better with him on the floor compared to when he is on the bench. With him out, expect to see a lot more Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. for Denver.
Braun signed a five-year, $125 million contract extension with the Nuggets this offseason, a deal that does not kick in until next season.
Granted, he didn’t know until Wednesday that he was one game away from tying Michael Jordan for most games with 40-plus points after turning 30. But once he was informed of the stat, he wasted no time, matching Jordan’s mark with a 49-point outburst during the Warriors’ 109-108 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night at Frost Bank Center.
After the game, Curry made it clear he knew exactly what he’d done once he reached 40 points in the fourth quarter.
“Very aware. I threw up the [23],” Curry told reporters. “I did it backwards, though. It’s the second time I’ve done that. But, yeah, I was aware of it, for sure. I didn’t know I was one away until last game, and then obviously I was asked about it.
“Then, when I got over that number — that’s pretty cool, just from an individual accomplishment perspective, just to be able to be in that type of company. The longevity is something I pride myself on, so that was pretty cool.”
Steph was "very aware" that he had tied Michael Jordan's record, though he accidentally threw up a backwards 23 🤣 pic.twitter.com/i5ZEKeSPQO
It’s not the first time Curry has joined the same company as Jordan, and it probably won’t be the last time, either. After all, they are two of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, and Curry clearly has a lot of respect for Jordan as well.
Perhaps when Curry scores 40 points again to eclipse Jordan’s record, he will throw up a 23 as intended, instead of an unintentional 32.
With NBA owners seemingly more focused on European expansion than on adding teams domestically, speculation has bubbled up about the potential sale of the New Orleans Pelicans and the team being moved to Seattle (or possibly Las Vegas).
"Let me be clear about this: The teams are not for sale. That's in capital letters. I want everybody to know the teams are not for sale. I get tired of people asking me [if they're for sale]. I'm going to turn 79 in January, but I'm pretty healthy. I hear that people want to talk to me about buying the team. I'm like, well, that's a waste of my time. That's not going to happen. And people need to calm down about the team moving."
"It remains that when I die, both teams will be sold to the highest bidder and those proceeds will be used 100 percent to improve this community."
Benson was also asked about the job status of coach Willie Green. The Pelicans hired a new head of basketball operations last summer in Joe Dumars, and the Pelicans are off to a dreadful 2-9 start, both of which usually land a coach on the hot seat.
"I really like Willie Green, but I hired Joe Dumars to assess our basketball operation. And that's what he is doing. He is assessing Willie and all the players. He and I spent the entire halftime (of the Portland Trail Blazers game on Wednesday night) talking. When he makes a decision, that's up to him. That's why I hired him. I trust Joe, because I feel like he knows people. He's known Willie since he was a child, so they know each other. And if he can fix that problem, then he'll fix it. If he can't, then that'll be his decision, not mine. I've left that in his hands."
The Pelicans have missed the playoffs each of the past two seasons and have made the postseason just twice in the previous eight seasons, losing in the first round both times. Beyond that, the Pelicans just have a poor reputation among players and agents. Check out what former Pelican player Kendrick Perkins (now of ESPN) said on the RJ Defends podcast:
"Here's the problem with New Orleans. Great city — one of my favorite cities to live in ... They're always going to be second to the New Orleans Saints. That city is all about the Saints — from the ownership down to Mickey Loomis. They don't give a damn about the Pelicans. It's so bad that if you want to eat — you know how all NBA organizations now have first-class facilities with breakfast, chefs, post-practice meals? In New Orleans, you leave the Pelicans facility, and you gotta walk across the street to the Saints' facility just to eat. And all your food is in boxes in the cafeteria."
Benson seems unlikely to make a new significant financial investment in the Pelicans or their arena, the Smoothie King Center, which could use it. She has now also made it clear she is not selling the team, and while things change (and all team owners' public comments should be taken with a grain of salt), it appears the Pelicans are going nowhere. At least for the foreseeable future.
All of which means Pelicans fans have to hope that Dumars can figure everything out.
Kelly Oubre Jr. was ruled out in the third quarter because of a left knee hyperextension.
Detroit was down six players, including Cade Cunningham (left hip contusion), Jalen Duren (right ankle sprain) and Tobias Harris (right ankle sprain).
The Sixers will return to Philadelphia and play the Clippers on Monday night. Here are observations on their loss to the Pistons:
Edgecombe refreshed, knocking down shots
Paul Reed made a layup to kick off the scoring against former Sixers teammate Andre Drummond. A few minutes later, Reed beat Drummond for a long offensive rebound and eventually slammed in an emphatic dunk. Reed (10 points, eight rebounds) and Drummond (12 points, 11 boards) exchanged some trash talk throughout the night.
Maxey was forceful as a scorer in the first quarter, even posting up on a couple of occasions. He recorded 10 of the Sixers’ first 19 points.
VJ Edgecombe drained long-range jumpers on his first two shots and clearly benefited from getting a little rest before the Sixers’ trip to Detroit.
During a physically taxing stretch of the schedule the past five games, Edgecombe’s scoring high was 12 points. The rookie had 13 in the first half and made at least three three-pointers for the first time in November.
Barlow back and on the boards
Dominick Barlow returned after missing the Sixers’ last nine games because of a right elbow laceration. He checked in to begin the second quarter with a sleeve on his right arm.
Barlow sunk a corner three on his first attempt. After a Sixers stop, Justin Edwards did the same to put the team up 38-31. Fresh off of a 22-point performance in the Sixers’ win over the Celtics, Edwards had 13 points on 4-for-7 shooting.
Though Barlow made a mistake on the perimeter when Ron Holland II picked off his pass, he recovered in impressive fashion. Barlow hustled after Holland and soared for a chase-down block. The initial foul call was overturned following a challenge by Sixers head coach Nick Nurse.
As a rebounder, Barlow picked up right where he left off. He snagged six boards (three offensive, three defensive) in his first stint.
Conditioning did not appear to be an issue for Barlow The fourth-year forward played 29 minutes on the night and tallied 10 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two blocks. High-effort, productive work after weeks on the sidelines.
Sixers waste new lineup’s hot start to 2nd half
Maxey and the Sixers hit a cold patch in the second quarter and the Pistons went on an extended run.
Reed blocked Maxey’s lefty layup try on the Sixers’ final possession of the first half. Maxey had just two points in the second quarter and Detroit held a 63-54 halftime lead.
Nurse on Tuesday had mentioned the idea of switching up lineups to start the second half as one potential way to address the Sixers’ third-quarter woes. He turned to that option against the Pistons, inserting Barlow for Trendon Watford and Quentin Grimes for Oubre. Maxey, Edgecombe and Drummond were the three Sixers who started both halves.
Oubre appeared to pick up his left knee injury late in the second quarter. He asked out of the game and never returned. This story will be updated with any further information on his status.
The Sixers’ new second-half lineup provided the desired results right away.
The team’s defensive pressure elevated and offense suddenly started to look much easier. The Pistons didn’t score until the 7:38 mark of the third quarter and the Sixers stormed back with a 14-0 run. Grimes and Barlow each chipped in threes. Drummond knocked down two triples in the third quarter.
Nurse didn’t make any substitutions until almost seven minutes into the third. That sub was Edwards, who drilled a top-of-the-key three that gave the Sixers an 83-71 lead.
Their double-digit advantage did not last for long. Jenkins banked in a half-court shot at the third-quarter buzzer and Wendell Moore Jr.’s driving layup to begin the fourth tied the game. Nurse called timeout after a Reed lay-in that lifted the Pistons to a 94-92 edge.
Maxey’s tough shotmaking kept the Sixers in it. However, Detroit often had answers late in the fourth, including a tightly contested Caris LeVert three with the shot clock winding down.
Once the weekend’s over, the Sixers will aim to put together a more complete game and bounce back at home.
This has been a very good formula for more than a decade, and it served them well once again Friday night.
Stephen Curry poured in a game-high 49 points, willing and dragging and pulling the Warriors to a 109-108 victory over the Spurs at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.
Trailing by 10 with 6:51 remaining, Golden State’s search for the momentum that would come with successive wins over a high-quality team was in doubt. The Warriors outscored San Antonio 24-13 over the final 6:42 to close out the triumph.
Here are three observations from a second consecutive feel-good road win, this one in an Emirates Cup game, for the Warriors, who improve to 8-6 overall and 1-1 in group play:
Chef cooks again
The Warriors basically left it up to Curry to carry them to a two-game sweep of the Spurs. Darned if he didn’t come through.
Curry scored 31 points in the second half – exactly half of the 62 points Golden State managed after intermission. His 49 points came on 16-of-26 shooting from the field, including 9-of-17 from beyond the arc and 8-of-8 from the line, including a pair of clinching free throws with 6.4 seconds remaining.
Curry scored 14 consecutive points for the Warriors to close the third quarter, which ended with them trailing 79-77. He scored 10 in a row in less than two minutes midway through the fourth quarter.
This was Curry’s 44th game with at least 40 points since his 30th birthday. That ties him with Michael Jordan for most in NBA history after that birthday. Coming off a 46-point outburst on Tuesday, this marks the first time since Nov. 11, 2022 that Curry posted back-to-back games with at least 40 points.
Bench shows signs of life
Coming into San Antonio this week, Golden State’s bench had been among the most productive in the league, averaging 40.2 points per game.
That group managed only 23 points in a 125-120 victory Wednesday night and further declined on Friday, finishing with only 19 points while San Antonio’s reserves put in 27.
After scoring only seven points in the first half, Golden State’s bench came alive in the second half, putting in 12 points – six each by Gary Payton II and Brandin Podziemski.
Podziemski entered the game shooting 12-of-34 from the field, including 6-of-17 from deep over his last five games. After missing five of his first six shots, he drained a pair of triples in the fourth quarter.
Payton, who was struggled with his shot all season, drilled two 3-pointers inside the final five minutes.
The question now is whether the Warriors’ bench can make up for the loss of Moses Moody, the team’s top bench scorer, moving into the starting lineup. Any recovery begins with Buddy Hield, who was scoreless for the first time this season and is averaging 5.4 points last 11 games) points over his last 12 games.
Steph could’ve used a little more help
The Warriors shot 28 percent from the field, including 16.7 percent from beyond the arc, in the first quarter. It got better, but not by much.
While Curry, Butler and Richard went into halftime with a combined 38 points on 14-of-20 shooting from the field, including 6-of-12 from beyond the arc, their teammates combined for nine points on 3-of-26 shooting, including 2-of-13 from deep.
It got better in the second half, with the Warriors scoring 62 points after a 47-point first half. But Curry’s teammates accounted for only 31 of those points, on 11-of-27 shooting from the field, including 4-of-10 from deep.
It’s worth celebrating any time you’re alone in a category with Michael Jordan.
And that’s exactly where Steph Curry finds himself after a 49-point outburst in the Warriors’ 109-108 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night, tying Jordan for the most 40-plus point games (44) after the age of 30 in NBA history.
Curry’s explosive scoring effort is the second time this week he has eclipsed the 40-point mark against the Spurs at Frost Bank Center, after a 46-point masterpiece in Golden State’s win on Wednesday night.
The Warriors superstar was lights out from deep, even draining a triple over 7-foot-4 Spurs big man Victor Wembenyama.
Friday is Curry’s third 40-point game of the 2025-26 NBA season, with the two-time MVP not showing any signs of decline in his 17th professional season.
At this rate, Curry will be standing alone sooner rather than later, but for now, any exclusive statistic shared with just Jordan is something the Warriors star can keep his head held high about.
It’s worth celebrating any time you’re alone in a category with Michael Jordan.
And that’s exactly where Steph Curry finds himself after a 49-point outburst in the Warriors’ win over the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night, tying Jordan for the most 40-plus point games (44) after the age of 30 in NBA history.
Curry’s explosive scoring effort is the second time this week he has eclipsed the 40-point mark against the Spurs at Frost Bank Center, after a 46-point masterpiece in Golden State’s win on Wednesday night.
The Warriors superstar was lights out from deep, even draining a triple over 7-foot-4 Spurs big man Victor Wembenyama.
Friday is Curry’s third 40-point game of the 2025-26 NBA season, with the two-time MVP not showing any signs of decline in his 17th professional season.
At this rate Curry will be standing alone sooner rather than later, but for now, any exclusive statistic shared with just Jordan is something the Warriors star can keep his head held high about.
Whether you’re in a Yahoo! High Score league, a Sleeper league, a league with a games cap or simply have so many players with games scheduled that you can’t start them all, making a decision about who to start or sit can help you win or lose your matchup.
Obviously, in many leagues, having more games played each week ends up being the difference in a matchup. This is not me saying to bench a player in a points league without a games cap. Even if I’m expecting a terrible game, five points is better than zero!
The Nets, Hornets, Mavericks, Warriors, Rockets, Clippers, Lakers, Bucks, Timberwolves, Pelicans, Magic, Trail Blazers, Kings and Spurs play twice this weekend, so if you’re just looking to maximize games, prioritize those teams.
Jalen Brunson is dealing with an ankle injury, and while there hasn’t been any report that would indicate a long-term absence yet, getting out in front of it is a good idea. If McBride starts multiple games, he’s a valuable streamer. At minimum, he should have a strong performance against the Heat on Friday. Brunson has already been ruled out for that game, so McBride should start. Miami plays at a faster pace than anyone in the league, which should help boost McBride’s stats.
Start: Sam Merrill, Cleveland Cavaliers
It’s unclear how long Darius Garland (toe) will be sidelined, but Merrill will continue to start in his place. The Cavs only have one game this weekend, but it’s against a Grizzlies team that hasn’t defended the three-point line well this season. This is a great opportunity for Merrill to get back on track; he opened the year as a starter and averaged 4.5 triples per game across their first four games before suffering a hip injury.
Sit: Donte DiVincenzo, Minnesota Timberwolves
DiVincenzo has struggled the last three games with Anthony Edwards back (though he was good in Edwards’ return), and this weekend isn’t going to get any easier. Minnesota plays the Kings and the Nuggets. Sacramento hasn’t been great lately, but they’ve done a decent job at defending three-pointers this year. Plus, there’s the added motivation from head coach Doug Christie after their last game, which came in a threat to switch up the starting unit. Denver has been one of the best teams at defending the three-point line this year. This isn’t a great chance for DiVincenzo to get back on track.
Sit: Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets
Sheppard is starting to figure things out, but this weekend isn’t ideal for him. The Rockets play the Trail Blazers and Magic, and both teams rank in the top four in fewest three-pointers allowed per game. Sheppard has hit at least four triples in three straight games and knocked down a season-best five treys against Washington on Wednesday, but that streak could certainly come to an end.
▶ Forwards
Start: Bogdan Bogdanovic, LA Clippers
With Bradley Beal (hip) set to miss the rest of the season, John Collins has moved into the starting lineup, but it’s Bogdanovic that has been more productive. Over his last three appearances, he has averaged 11.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 2.3 three-pointers in 26 minutes per game. He has two games this weekend, and while the matchups aren’t ideal, he has been effective when Beal is injured.
Start: Noah Clowney, Brooklyn Nets
Clowney has been starting for Brooklyn, and he has been really productive in four of their last five games. The matchup with the Magic on Friday isn’t an easy one, but it’s an opportunity for him. However, it’s the game against the Wizards on Sunday that is intriguing. Washington has the worst defense in the league, which makes it a great opportunity for Clowney to have a productive night.
Sit: Trendon Watford, Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers only have one game this weekend, and it’s against the Pistons, who have been elite on defense this season, especially in the paint. Since that surprising triple-double, Watford has been disappointing. He may continue to start, but the return of Dominick Barlow (elbow) could cut into Watford’s minutes.
Sit: Dillon Brooks, Phoenix Suns
Brooks is coming off one of the best offensive performances of his career, but his lone outing this weekend will come against one of the best defensive teams in the league. The limited opportunity combined with a matchup against the Hawks makes this a suboptimal weekend for Brooks.
▶ Centers
Start: Moussa Diabate, Charlotte Hornets
Ryan Kalkbrenner (personal) has been ruled out against the Bucks on Friday, which will be at least one start for Diabate. They play again on Saturday against the Thunder, so it wouldn’t be surprising if Kalkbrenner missed both. Diabate has been solid as a reserve, but his ceiling and minutes will both rise significantly with Kalkbrenner unavailable.
Start: Derik Queen, New Orleans Pelicans
It’s not really about matchups here; Queen is just playing too well to not start him. Queen isn’t starting yet, but he’s playing starter minutes. He had a career-best 26 points and played 38 minutes on Wednesday. The Lakers and Warriors aren’t easy matchups, but they shouldn’t scare managers away as Queen breaks out.
Sit: Kel’el Ware, Miami Heat
Miami only has one game this weekend, and it comes against the Knicks, who have been one of the best rebounding teams in the league this season. Ware didn’t do much against the Knicks as a starter earlier this year, but that was with Bam Adebayo available. Adebayo (toe) is still out, so Ware should play more minutes, but this isn’t an ideal matchup for Ware.
Sit: Dereck Lively and Daniel Gafford, Dallas Mavericks
Lively (knee) will be back on Friday against the Clippers, who rank last in the league in pace. Slower pace leads to fewer shots, which leads to fewer rebound opportunities. Sunday’s matchup with Portland is more favorable, but Gafford and Lively haven’t played together yet this season. Plus, Anthony Davis (calf) could be back. It’s best to play it safe when it comes to the Dallas bigs and wait to figure things out next week; it wouldn’t be shocking if both play 15-20 minutes.
While predicting what the Kings' front office and ownership will do is a futile mission, there is logic to their trying to trade away their veterans at the trade deadline. Sacramento is a 3-9 team — one that is frustrating its coach — with a promising young player in Keegan Murray and an intriguing rookie in Nique Clifford, but not much else to build around. The Kings control their own draft pick this season, so trading away their veterans to focus on the future makes sense.
"So, as it relates to Sabonis, my understanding is there are at least a few teams that have raised their hand to say, 'Yeah, he's somebody we'd want to talk about.' I've said it on your show before — I don't have that sort of information about Zach (LaVine)."
Sabonis, a three-time All-Star and All-NBA selection in 2023 and 2024, is averaging 15.3 points and 12.3 rebounds per game this season, although his efficiency has fallen off sharply, including his shooting just 17.6% from 3-point range. He is a good passer and just 29 years old; teams may think that if they get him in their system, Sabonis will return to form.
That said, Sabonis is making $42.3 million this season and is owed $94.1 million over the two seasons after this one. If a team is going to take him on, they are going to have to want him. Just matching that salary will mean giving up a player of value.
LaVine, 30, is averaging 23.9 points a game and shooting 42.3% from beyond the arc this season, but is more ball dominant than Sabonis. LaVine is making $47.5 million this season with a player option for $48.9 million next season (he would be extension eligible this summer). Considering how difficult the Bulls found it to find a LaVine trade before the deal with the Kings last February (part of a three-team trade involving De'Aaron Fox to San Antonio), it may be asking a lot to expect the Kings to find a deal.
Don't be surprised if Malik Monk, DeMar DeRozan and Doug McDermott also come up in trade rumors.
During warmups before the Warriors’ game against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night at Frost Bank Center, Curry wore Mambacita Kobe 6 Nike shoes, a strange sight considering the 17-year NBA veteran’s history with the two shoe brands.
Curry began his professional career as a Nike athlete but an uninspiring sales pitch to retain him caused the Warriors’ star to jump to Under Armour in 2013.
The Curry Brand launched in 2020 as a sub-brand within Under Armour, seemingly locking Curry in with the company. But the sides decided to part ways on Thursday, allowing Curry to become a sneaker free agent next year.
With Curry’s Under Armour pact ending, he can wear other shoe brands over the next year as he pursues a new deal, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Thursday, citing sources.
Curry’s final shoe in partnership with Under Armour will release in early 2026.
Expect Curry to rock other shoe brands over the next year as he decides on a new partner.
There is a predictable pattern around the NBA: Whenever there is front office upheaval, other teams start to poke around, looking to go bargain shopping on players they like.
Enter the Dallas Mavericks, who fired general manager Nico Harrison and have replaced him with a couple of interim GMs in Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi, while a search is underway for a full-time replacement (Riccardi's name is part of that search, and he is rumored to be coach Jason Kidd's guy). With that, other teams are circling, expecting Dallas to make a move eventually, starting with potentially trading Anthony Davis, league sources have told NBC Sports. That is being reported elsewhere as well, here is how Tim Bontemps phrased it at ESPN:
The belief, from sources I spoke to, is that the Mavs moving on from at least Davis, if not both stars, was the optimal strategy. Those moves would help maximize the 2026 first-round pick in a loaded 2026 draft class -- the only selection Dallas controls the rest of this decade -- to reposition the franchise around 2025 No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg.
Saying the Mavs should trade Davis is also a lot easier than putting together a workable deal.
Trying to find a Davis trade
There are a lot of moving parts here, let's break it all down.
• Is Dallas going to let its interim GMs make a massive trade like this that sets the future direction of the franchise? The more logical scenario is for the Mavericks to let things play out and then allow the new GM to make the call, but will all that come together in time for the February trade deadline?
• Nobody is going to trade for Davis or Irving until they see them back on the court, healthy and playing well. Until then, everything is pure speculation.
• Neither Davis nor Irving is a 1A, best player on a championship team guy (the Lakers hoped Davis would take that mantle from LeBron, but it never happened, in part because LeBron never faded away that much). Davis and Irving are, at this point, No. 2 or 3 guys on a title team. This means that teams trading for them are not going to give up elite prices — the Mavs are not going to get back what they gave up to acquire Davis. However, if healthy, both players could be important parts of a contending or playoff team. There are just a limited number of those teams, and even fewer looking to trade for a high-priced big man.
• Davis is making $54.1 million this season, and the Dallas Mavericks are hard-capped at the second apron, which they are just $1.3 million below. That combination makes it incredibly difficult to find a trade partner during the season, especially since most of the teams he would go to are also facing a hard cap or other apron/tax issues.
"I just looked it up so I could say this to my owner if he asks me about it, AD is turning 33 in March and he's going to be in position next summer where he'll probably want a contract extension that would cost $70 million per year when he'd be 37," one general manager said. He's a great player, full stop. But when you consider a player at his age with his injury history, you'd also be trading for the stress of that extension. That plays into it."
• What teams are interested? On FanDuel’s Run it Back show, John Wall floated the idea of Davis wanting to return to his native Chicago. He may want that, but would Chicago? The Bulls would want to swap older big men, sending out Nikola Vucevic in the trade, but would have to add a young player such as Coby White and another player (Isaac Okoro?) to make the math work, plus picks to interest Dallas. And why would Chicago do that, exactly? If they believe they have something to build around with Josh Giddey, Chicago should be looking for players on his timeline. Davis is not that.
• Golden State fits the "would take on an older player to try and win now" criteria and could use some help along the front line, but constructing a trade is very difficult (the Warriors are hard-capped at the second apron and just about $2 million below that number). Jimmy Butler for Davis straight up works under the cap (they have the same salary), but why would either team do that?
Would Golden State be willing to trade Draymond Green to get Davis? I imagine the answer to that is no, considering Green's chemistry with Stephen Curry, but it's another path. While difficult to construct (but can work with a third team involved), there is a trade that sends Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, and another player, such as Buddy Hield, out of the Bay Area. Again, why would Golden State do that? Does this really make them better right now? Davis is a better player than Green in a vacuum, but at twice the salary and wanting an extension. Also, is Dallas willing to bet on Kuminga fitting next to Flagg and being a long-term part of what they are building? It's hard to see the sides finding common ground.
• It's possible a team like Sacramento or Phoenix could kick around a deal (the Kings could send out Zach LaVine or Domantas Sabonis), but do either of them want to get that much older with Davis?
• The bottom line is that while teams are poking around and think the Mavericks should trade Davis (and fans are clamoring for the bold move), finding a deal that actually makes sense for the Mavericks — with young players and picks to help them pivot around Flagg — is very difficult to find. And it's more likely to happen around the draft or next offseason than in the next three months.
Last weekend, roughly two thousand people gathered at Pier 36 in New York City for a collision of food, music, and basketball called The Battle of Jollof.
The event, now in its fifth year, featured a jollof rice cook-off, a 1v1 basketball tournament highlighting talent from across the African diaspora, and a high-stakes basketball game between Team Ghana and Team Nigeria — a showdown for bragging rights in the kitchen and on the court.
It brought together NBA and WNBA stars, Afrobeats powerhouses, a Bib-Gourmand-recognized chef, and some of the city's best restaurants, representing flavors from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Ethiopia — and it was completely free of charge.
Why?
Because the purpose of the Battle of Jollof isn't fame or profit; the purpose of the event is community.
Jordan Christopher Reginald Hill
On the eve of Battle of Jollof, I sat down with Arinze Emeagwali, TJ Adeshola, and Abdul Karim Abdullah, the founders,at Ludlow House in SoHo for a pre-event gathering where they shared how this event came to be. As we walked through the four-story house to find a quiet place for our interview, they paused to greet every guest they encountered, dapping them up with a warm, welcoming energy.
Being greeted is such a significant part of African culture. If you grew up in an African home and made the mistake of walking past someone without saying hi, you've probably heard:
"You don't greet?" or in Pidgin, "You no dey greet"?
You acknowledge everyone in the room to not only show that they matter but to show that they are welcome. Being welcoming is a core value in African culture.
That sense of welcome is what sparked the idea for global brand marketer Emeagwali in 2019. He partnered with Adeshola, a sports and media executive and operating partner at Arctos Partners, and Abdullah, the founder and CEO of AfroFuture, to bring the vision to life in 2020.
"I just wanted to bring together the community — our friends and other people that aren't West African — and have a vibe and educate them," he said.
"To be Black, we have so many more similarities than we have differences, " said Adeshola. "[Battle of Jollof] is all about our shared experiences, shared culture, and pride in the nuances that exist across all of that cultural overlap."
"It's a space for us to really honor our stories, share a little bit about our culture, and to gather as a community," added Abdullah. "We're able to showcase our story, showcase who we are, and develop pride in the next generation of people who are now getting to see their culture as mainstream."
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 08: (L-R) TJ Adeshola, Arinze Emeagwali and Abdul Abdullah attend the BET x Battle of Jollof Dinner 2024 at Zero Bond on November 08, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Jason Mendez/Getty Images for BMG – BET Media Group)
Getty Images for BMG – BET Media Group
That shared pride and celebration of culture is what attracted a star-studded lineup of athletes and artists who came to support and experience Battle of Jollof firsthand.
"This event speaks to all aspects of everything that I love," said two-time WNBA All-Star and basketball analyst Chiney Ogwumike. "I think the best thing that sport does is it brings everyone together — culture, community, vibes, Afrobeats, and of course, athletes and celebrities — all celebrating what it means to be Black, to be of culture, and what it means to be of the diaspora."
viewmyvizion Jordan Canty
"I love repping my culture, and I love Nigeria," said WNBA All-Star Kiki Iriafen. "To be able to celebrate basketball, jollof, and the beautiful African diaspora is super special. It's great for us, especially being in the States, to be able to get together, have community, and celebrate our culture and heritage.
Team Nigeria was coached by four-time WNBA All-Star Arike Ogunbowale, who led the group to an 80-74 victory over Team Ghana.
"This is my first time going. I've always seen it, but I'm super excited that I could be part of it. This is my culture, and African culture is just dope," said Ogunbowale.
Jordan Christopher Reginald Hill
Ogunbowale wasn't the only first-timer at the event. New York Knicks Star OG Anunoby came to show his support.
"I heard about the event. I thought it'd be pretty cool, so I wanted to come check it out for myself," Anunoby said. "I'm very proud of my African culture. I grew up in a Nigerian household, and it's very important to see African representation. It's very uplifting and cool for everyone to see and be a part of."
Other guests included Philadelphia 76ers Center Adem Bona, former NBA stars Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Emeka Okafor, and Ty Lawson; rapper Wale; Afrobeats sensation King Promise, Grammy-nominated artist Fridayy, host and executive producer Speedy Morman, Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’Bozoma St. John — who is also the Chief Marketing Officer for NBC's On Brand with Jimmy Fallon — and more.
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The influence is impressive, but at its core, Battle of Jollof is about giving back. The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) — one of the event's sponsors — donated $5,000 in the event's honor to One Love Community Fridge.
The non-profit organization, founded by Asmeret Berhe-Lumax in June 2020, is working to eradicate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition.
"It really is about just having an impact wherever we show up," said Lyzz Ogunwo, Vice President of Player Experience Operations and Global Impact at NBPA, on the organization's involvement.
"We already know the state of access to food right now in the United States," Ogunwo continued. "We saw this as a great opportunity to make a contribution on behalf of our players — ensuring additional access to food for those in times of need right now.
"So many of our players have shared narratives with the folks who are playing in the [tournament] and with the founders of Battle of Jollof as well. It's just an opportunity to see themselves within the diaspora community.
"It's also a great [extension] of what we've been doing with One Court Africa."
Battle of Jollof is more than an event; it's one big greeting — a warm embrace that comes from the depths of a culture and tradition that says, "Isee you, I acknowledge you." The shared plates of Jollof, the rhythm of the log drum in Afrobeats, and the shared celebrations on the court are all invitations to partake — a way to say: you are welcome.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 07: Brooklyn Suya’s Staff attends Battle Of Jollof on November 07, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Joy Malone/Getty Images)
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Despite its magnitude, the founders of Battle of Jollof have full-time jobs. The event isn't a side-hustle — it's an overflow of their passion for culture and the diaspora.
"Battle of Jollof is a love letter to the community," said Adeshola. "Everybody has jobs and things that we have going on, but we recognize that this is important, and we have to prioritize bringing people together in a way that's differentiated. It's not the club, it's not a concert, it's not a party, it's truly breaking bread and watching sport.
Our hope is that everybody who walks in the space gets a plate, enjoys their jollof, and gets to experience a really dope moment with the culture."
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 07: DJ RB Nice competes in the DJ Battle at the “Battle Of Jollof” on November 07, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Joy Malone/Getty Images)
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"It's really about the community and us prioritizing paying the community — paying the mom-and-pop shops, paying the vendors, bringing them out so people can know about the Liberian place that has good Jollof.
Battle of Jollof is a moment to not only showcase African talent and how diverse we are, but to highlight African food and how diverse we are," said Emeagwali.
"It's a way to share a piece of our childhood and a piece of our culture with people," said Abdullah.
After missing the second half of Wednesday’s game, Jonathan Kuminga has been ruled out of the Warriors’ second consecutive game against the Spurs in San Antonio on Friday at Frost Bank Center.
Kuminga is dealing with bilateral patellar (knee) tendonitis, and while he could miss some time, the Warriors aren’t worried about it being a structural issue.
The 23-year-old forward isn’t expected to miss an extended period of time, but the Warriors want to be cautious with their young wing who’s been dealing with some recent soreness in his knees.
Golden State is in the midst of a six-game road trip, which it’s gone 1-1 so far.
After San Antonio, the Warriors will face the New Orleans Pelicans, Orlando Magic and then close out the road trip in Miami against the Heat.
In 13 games (12 starts) this season, Kuminga is averaging 13.8 points on 47.8 percent shooting, with 6.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 27.7 minutes.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr experimented with a new starting lineup in Wednesday’s win that moved Kuminga to the bench after he had started the previous dozen contests.
Kuminga played just 12 minutes and went scoreless before being pulled for good at the half.
Editor’s Note: In a three-part series, Chris Forsberg is sharing 13 thoughts on the 13 Celtics players who have played in the team’s first 13 games. Part 1 focused on the “core four.” Next up: four of the team’s top role players.
One of the more encouraging developments through the early part of the 2025-26 season has been the contributions of role players for these new-look Boston Celtics.
After the team’s offseason roster overhaul, it was fair to wonder who was ready to step into elevated roles. The Celtics confidently rolled 10 deep in recent seasons, but beyond the returnees who contributed to the 2024 championship run, it was fair to wonder who amongst a motley crew of recent draftees and offseason signings would be able to fill the clear voids of the veterans who departed.
While some of Boston’s younger players are still on a quest for individual consistency, the bench has given the Celtics steady output to start the season. The Celtics rank 11th in the NBA in bench scoring (38.1 points per game) but are getting a league-best 6.8 bench 3-pointers per game, while the reserve group has often provided energy and grit.
For Part 2 of our “13 for 13” series, we’re putting the spotlight on some of the team’s top role players.
Jordan Walsh
One number: +23.6
That is Walsh’s net rating this season. For context, here are the NBA’s net rating leaders (minimum of 15.0 minutes per game and nine games played):
Alex Caruso, Thunder: +29.1
Jordan Walsh, Celtics: +23.6
Chet Holmgren, Thunder: +22.6
Nikola Jokic, Nuggets: +21.0
Essentially, Walsh is lingering among key members of a championship team that’s now on pace to challenge the 2016 Warriors’ 73-win season, as well as a three-time MVP. That’s solid company.
We don’t want to overreact to a five-game sample, but Walsh has clearly put together the best week of his NBA career and given hope that he can be a true contributor as these Celtics shape their next title-chasing team. He’s shooting the 3-pointer with confidence (43.8 percent beyond the arc on 1.8 attempts per game) and his ability to guard all shapes and sizes — from Tyrese Maxey to Paolo Banchero — has won him the confidence of Mazzulla.
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Walsh needs to keep his foot on the accelerator, but it sure feels like he’s the sort of wing who can take a whole bunch of stress off Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, at least on the defensive end. His rebounding has been vital since his minutes spiked.
Josh Minott
One number: 5.0
That’s Minott’s foul percentage this season, which ranks in the highest fifth of the league, per Cleaning the Glass data. His propensity to pick up early fouls has hindered his ability to lock down the starting role that he elevated to early in the season.
One thought
The Lawn Mower’s ability to impact the game with his energy is undeniable. When the Celtics were getting battered on the glass to start the season, he injected some much-needed height and athleticism into Boston’s starting frontcourt. His offense emerged, too, as he started knocking down above-the-break 3s and finishing loud alley-oops in transition.
But the 22-year-old Minott is still searching for consistency — and the coaching staff seems to be imploring him to play without fouling. Minott has all the physical abilities to be a consistent presence for this team, and being laser-focused will ensure he stays on the floor.
Hugo Gonzalez
One number: 8
That’s the number of All-Stars the Celtics have had Gonzalez defend in his first 171 minutes of floor NBA time. From long stretches against Cade Cunningham, Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Maxey; to shorter stints jousting with Lauri Markkanen, Kevin Durant, Paolo Banchero, Donovan Mitchell and Alperen Sengun; the Celtics have put Gonzalez to the test early and often.
He’s held up well, limiting his opponents to 44.7 percent shooting, or 1.2 percent below expected output. Gonzalez generates steals on 3.6 percent of defensive possessions, which ranks in the 100th percentile among wings, per Cleaning the Glass data.
Gonzalez does not look like a teenager on the floor. He confidently hounds opposing players and even displays a little bit of a swagger, particularly in his exasperation when he gets a rookie whistle.
Yes, Gonzalez gets an earful every time he makes a mistake. Yes, his offense has a long way to go to keep him on the court. But he plays with a poise that few NBA teenagers possess. Having him on a bargain rookie pact for the next four seasons could be vital in giving the team flexibility to build its next title contender.
Luka Garza
One number: 5.5
That’s the number of screen assists per 36 minutes that Garza is generating this season. He’s in the top 20 for total screen assists despite his limited time. Operating at times like an offensive lineman, he’s relentless in trying to pancake opposing defenders to free up a Boston ball-handler.
Thanks to Garza and Neemias Queta, the Celtics rank second in the NBA in both screen assists per game (9.6) and screen assist points generated (23.1 points per game). Only the Jazz have higher numbers this season.
One thought
Everyone knew the defensive limitations with Garza coming into the season, and that has bore itself out — the Celtics’ defense is 7.8 points worse with Garza on the floor this season. But for a team thin on big bodies, Garza is willing to fight hard for rebounds, runs the floor with reckless abandon and is content to set screens as if it’s the top line on basketball resume.
Garza has been solid in short doses, and he certainly has aided the bench offense with a variety of paint finishes and an ability to knock down 3-pointers. The Celtics are 5-0 when they’ve won — or basically tied, as was the case vs. Cleveland — Garza’s minutes.
Heading into Week 5, the landscape of fantasy basketball is rapidly changing, demanding that managers stay updated on the latest trends.
With a flurry of NBA injury news shaking up NBA depth charts across the league, a number of potential pickups are emerging as permanent assets capable of drastically improving your fantasy basketball rankings. Identifying players who are benefiting from expanded roles—whether it's an offensive threat delivering points and threes or a defensive-minded player boosting your steals and blocks—is vital as you navigate the season.
Let's dive into nine key NBA sleepers whose current stats suggest they are poised for significant value and are currently rostered in fewer than 40% of Yahoo leagues.
Yahoo High Score Leagues
Brandon Williams (18% rostered)
At this point, we are considering Williams a must-roster player across all formats. Having supplanted D'Angelo Russell as the starting point guard in Dallas, Williams has flashed upside on both ends of the floor. He has played 33 minutes in consecutive games, both of which were narrow losses. However, it is clear that the team looks to function a lot better with Williams steering the ship, a fact that shouldn't be lost on fantasy managers. Having scored 49, 34 and 40 fantasy points in each of the past three games, his value is not confined to one category, making him a player with a relatively safe floor. Dallas has four games on the slate for this week, including a favorable back-to-back against the Pelicans and the Grizzlies. Make sure he isn't still available in your league.
Known primarily as a scorer, Hunter has been able to add some wrinkles to his overall game thus far this season. With Darius Garland continuing to deal with a toe injury, Hunter has been saddled with more responsibility, resulting in strong numbers. He has scored at least 35 fantasy points in five of his past seven games and is coming off a game in which he tallied a season-high six assists, highlighting his improved peripheral production. Outside of a couple of poor performances, Hunter has been relatively consistent, something that is not typically the case. Garland is without a specific timetable, making Hunter a sneaky addition across all formats, including high score leagues.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Atlanta Hawks (32% rostered)
Despite having locked down the starting point guard position in Atlanta, at least until Trae Young returns from his knee injury, Alexander-Walker remains drastically under-rostered. He has assumed the starting point guard role and, to this point, has left no stone unturned. Since returning from a brief injury-related absence, Alexander-Walker has put up 34 and 40 fantasy points in each of his past two games. He is by no means flashy, but should continue to play a sizeable role for the foreseeable future, making him a must-add player.
Standard 9-Category Leagues
Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets (33% rostered)
Seen as a potential breakout candidate heading into the season, Sheppard took his time to get going. He scored double digits only twice in the first six games, with his playing time limited off the bench. However, the past three games have reinvigorated his potential fantasy value. During that span, he has averaged 17.7 points, 3.7 assists, 2.3 steals and 4.3 three-pointers, despite continuing to come off the bench. Perhaps the biggest takeaway has been the fact that his playing time has increased to 26.8 minutes per game. While his hot shooting is likely to regress at some point, he certainly should be rostered in a lot more leagues right now.
Derik Queen, New Orleans Pelicans (18% rostered)
The Pelicans are going nowhere fast, with Queen being one of the only positives thus far. After a modest start to his rookie season, injuries to other players have afforded Queen an opportunity to play meaningful minutes. He has scored double digits in five straight games, averaging 14.4 points to go with 6.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.8 steals. The imminent return of Zion Williamson from yet another hamstring injury is going to complicate matters somewhat. However, with very little to play for other than looking to develop its young players, New Orleans could do a lot worse than continuing to have Queen play a sizeable role.
Andre Drummond, Philadelphia 76ers (15% rostered)
Coming into the season, Drummond was viewed by many as the third-strong center behind Joel Embiid and Adem Bona. With Embiid continuing to deal with knee issues, it has been Drummond who has stood tall, turning back the clock with some regularity. Over the past four games, he has averaged 12.0 points, 11.5 rebounds and 1.7 combined steals and blocks. Bona has offered very little thus far, especially on the offensive end. With Embiid's future, both long-term and short-term, continuing to raise questions, Drummond could very well maintain some sort of fantasy value, at least for the foreseeable future.
Standard Points Leagues
Max Christie, Dallas Mavericks (16% rostered)
Christie is not going to blow anyone away with his numbers, but he has quietly put together a strong start to the season. He has now scored double digits in 10 straight games, having started in the past nine. He has totaled at least 30 fantasy points in three consecutive appearances, putting him inside the top 100 during that time. His role appears relatively secure, thanks in part to the poor play of Klay Thompson. While he isn't the most exciting target, Christie seems like a relatively risk-free target, at least for now.
Royce O'Neale, Phoenix Suns (28% rostered)
Another relatively ho-hum target, O'Neale has also put together a quietly strong start to the season. He has started in eight of the past nine games, and with Jalen Green now sidelined for at least six weeks, that role seems likely to continue. Unlike Christie, O'Neale's value is built around his ability to contribute across the board. He is averaging 27.5 fantasy points per game across the first 12 games, and he should be able to sit in that range until we see Green back on the floor. If you are looking for a no-nonsense, plug-and-play option, O'Neale could be the player for you.
Noah Clowney, Brooklyn Nets (9% rostered)
Of the three points league targets, Clowney comes with arguably the most risk despite seemingly having a clear path to minutes. Brooklyn is not afraid to shuffle its rotation, which makes it difficult to project individual playing time. However, what is clear is that Clowney is a priority for the Nets, a player who could be a key piece moving forward. He has started in five straight games, averaging 14.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.4 three-pointers and 1.8 combined steals and blocks. While there will almost certainly be a few bumps in the road, perhaps Clowney is finally ready to take the next step that has seemingly been coming for the past couple of years.
Eric Samulski
(18% rostered)
(34% rostered)
(32% rostered)
(33% rostered)
(18% rostered)
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(28% rostered)
(9% rostered)