Category: NBA

No one is walking through the door to help the Toronto Raptors. While several Eastern Conference rivals bolstered their rosters in preparation for the playoff sprint ahead, the Raptors opted to pursue meaningful internal changes.

The organization is clearly not ready to let go of this group – at least not yet. Whether that mindset proves fruitful remains to be seen. But this iteration of the Raptors seemingly has one final chance to prove they’re worth investing in and it begins with a matchup against the Chicago Bulls on Thursday.

Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. EST on Sportsnet. 

Here are three storylines ahead of the matchup. 

Poeltl Must Pay it Forward

The unofficial mid-season break couldn’t have come at a better time for the Raptors as they desperately attempt to keep their grasp on a playoff spot. 

The two players that admirably stepped up while the team dealt with injuries earlier in the year, Sandro Mamakelashvili and Collin Murray-Boyles, are ironically listed as questionable. Mamukelashvili has exceeded all expectations and remains on track as one of the best free-agent signings in franchise history. Meanwhile, Murray-Boyles is still dealing with a thumb issue. The rookie is averaging 7.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.9 blocks. 

Before the All-Star festivities, Jakob Poeltl finally returned after missing 24 consecutive games. While on a minutes restriction, Poeltl finished with nine points and six rebounds in 20 minutes during a 113-95 defeat to the Detroit Pistons on Feb. 11. 

With only 26 games left in the Raptors’ schedule, Poeltl will finish the season playing fewer than 57 games for the fourth straight year. The Raptors’ playoff hopes and season highly depend on Poeltl’s back holding up. Even if he’s not at full strength, Poeltl’s availability considerably improves Toronto’s chances in the East. 

The Bulls are confused

Even when the Bulls started the season with five consecutive victories, no one outside of Chicago batted an eye. At 6-1, the Bulls held the top spot in the Eastern Conference on Nov. 1. With the NBA returning from its All-Star Weekend, the Bulls are 24-31 and currently hold the 11th seed. 

The Bulls have etched an awkward page in history books as a frequent participant in the league’s play-in tournament. Chicago has appeared in the competition in each of the last three years. They’ve accumulated a 2-3 record during this span. 

After years of mediocrity, the Bulls’ front office decided to move in a new direction. But in what is the feather in the cap for those who believe Bulls fans are still paying for how they ended their golden era, the team still feels directionless despite roster changes.

Out goes Nikola Vucevic, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Ousmane Dieng and Mike Conley in separate transactions. In return, Chicago acquired Anfernee Simons, Colin Sexton, Jaden Ivey, Rob Dillingham, Nick Richards and Guerschon Yabusele. 

When Josh Giddey and Tre Jones return from their respective hamstring injuries, the Bulls’ coaching staff will have to solve the funky logjam of guards they have. 

Even with the Bulls in disarray, the Raptors will still have their hands full against a scrappy Bulls team that ranks 11th in rebounding. If Poeltl and Murray-Boyles miss the game, it’ll take a team effort to contain Richards and Yabusele, both of whom are expected to be on “prove-it” missions for the rest of the season. Centre Jalen Smith, who has been dealing with a calf stain, has also been fantastic in limited minutes.

This feels familiar

It feels like the Raptors have been here before. There’s an eerie tension in the air that suggests a transition is waiting around the corner, ready to ambush the fans into the next era of Raptors basketball. 

The optimistic basketball fan in Toronto will remind their peers that something fun typically follows. From Mighty Mouse and Vinsanity to Chris Bosh. From DeMar DeRozan’s ‘Young Gunz’ era to We the North. Then there’s the 2019 championship run to this current version of the team.

The latter is still difficult to judge because it’s defined by Scottie Barnes, who has never benefitted from proper roster construction. Since moving on from the parts that helped bring the city’s first NBA title, the Raptors have leaned on the likes of Immanuel Quickley, Canadian RJ Barrett, Gradey Dick and Ja’Kobe Walter as key acquisitions. What makes them important adds were the assets, cap room and draft capital used. 

While the Raptors never miss out on an opportunity to remind fans and media they’re in the middle of a rebuild, it’s difficult to completely buy in, considering their lone move at the trade deadline was partly done to get under the tax line. 

Skipping the play-in tournament should be the expectation because it’s time to see what this group can do in the playoffs.

Stephen Curry is expected remain out of action for the Golden State Warriors when the team returns to the court against the Boston Celtics on Thursday, Feb. 19 at the Chase Center in San Francisco.

Curry will have missed six games as he deals with a right knee injury. He did not participate in Wednesday’s practice.

He was expected to be evaluated by the team’s training staff, according to Dalton Johnson of NBC Sports Bay Area.

How did Stephen Curry get injured?

Curry appeared to be uncomfortable with his right knee during a game against the Detroit Pistons on Jan. 30. He had a brace on his knee and was grabbing at it during the game.

Who is Stephen Curry’s backup?

Brandin Podziemski and Pat Spencer are expected to serve as the primary backup options while Curry remains out of the lineup.

Podziemski has averaged 12 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game in 55 games this season. Spencer has averaged 6.3 points, 3.2 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game in 39 games played.

When do Warriors play next?

The Warriors will host the Boston Celtics at the Chase Center on Thursday, Feb. 19, at 7 p.m. PT (10 p.m. ET).

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Steph Curry injury update: Will Warriors star play vs Celtics tonight?

The 2026 NBA All-Star break offered the chance for the entire league to catch its breath, reset and look ahead to the playoffs, which – seemingly suddenly – start in two months.

The break is also giving us the chance to revisit the USA TODAY SportsTop 25 NBA player rankings for the 2025-26 season, which we published in early October.

Where did we get it right? Where did we get it wrong?

Rankings and perceived value, of course, are subjective, so we welcome the debate. But for the purposes of this list, we’re omitting star players who are likely to miss at least most of the remainder of the season due to injury – players like Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton and Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving.

More: NBA All-Star Game winners and losers: US vs World format is an upgrade

USA TODAY Sports' Top 25 NBA players, ranked

25. Paolo Banchero, forward, Orlando Magic

2025-26 stats: 21.3 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 4.8 apg

His scoring numbers and efficiency have lagged significantly, and the Magic – before Franz Wagner got hurt – often played better when he was off the floor.

Pre-season ranking: 16th

24. Jalen Duren, center, Detroit Pistons

2025-26 stats: 17.7 ppg, 10.4 rpg, 1.8 apg

With a steadily-improving mid-range jumper, his offensive game has developed. And, with his size and defensive presence down low, Duren is becoming a force for the Pistons.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

23. Lauri Markkanen, forward, Utah Jazz

2025-26 stats: 26.7 ppg, 7.0 rpg, 2.1 apg

The Jazz may not want him to play fourth quarters, but Markkanen is averaging career highs in points per game and is quickly becoming a premier inside-out threat who can stretch the floor.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

22. Jalen Johnson, forward, Atlanta Hawks

2025-26 stats: 23.3 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 8.2 apg

He’s quickly becoming one of the more versatile players in the entire NBA and is a player who impacts the game in several ways. He also often puts up monster stat lines.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

21. Karl-Anthony Towns, forward-center, New York Knicks

2025-26 stats: 19.8 ppg, 11.9 rpg, 2.9 apg

His defensive effort and propensity to fall into foul trouble often compromise his ability to be a consistent, game-changing force, but his shooting range and rebounding still make him a unique talent.

Pre-season ranking: 18th

20. Scottie Barnes, forward, Toronto Raptors

2025-26 stats: 19.3 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 5.6 apg

Now in his fifth season, Barnes is quietly becoming a consistent force on both ends. His scoring isn’t eye-popping, but he’s a play-making presence on a Raptors team that has been the biggest surprise in the East.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

19. Joel Embiid, center, Philadelphia 76ers

2025-26 stats: 26.6 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 3.9 apg

Both Embiid and the 76ers have been calculated and cautious when it comes to the soon-to-be 32-year-old’s knee issues. And while Embiid has missed his share of games, he has been very productive when on the floor. He’s not quite at his MVP levels from 2022-23, but he nonetheless remains a dominant force.

Pre-season ranking: 19th

18. Pascal Siakam, forward-center, Indiana Pacers

2025-26 stats: 26.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 3.9 apg

To look at the impact Siakam has had on the Pacers, all you need to do is take a quick peek at the team’s injury reports from this season. Yet, despite being the focus of opposing defenses, Siakam has been the team’s lone bright spot.

Pre-season ranking: 24th

17. Jamal Murray, guard, Denver Nuggets

2025-26 stats: 25.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 7.6 apg

During the stretches when Nikola Jokić has had to miss time, Murray has carried the Nuggets. And, after Denver lost some of its perimeter shooting with the trade of Michael Porter Jr., Murray has filled in that void, tying his career-best 3-point shooting percentage (42.5%) on a career-high 7.4 attempts per game.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

16. LeBron James, forward, Los Angeles Lakers

2025-26 stats: 22.0 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 7.1 apg

What James is doing at 41 years old does not have a precedent. He remains an impact player who can drive, make the right pass and rebound. He has lost a step, however, and isn’t as efficient with his shot and needs to manage back-to-backs. But at his age, that’s only natural.

Pre-season ranking: 8th

15. Tyrese Maxey, guard, Philadelphia 76ers

2025-26 stats: 28.9 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 6.8 apg

Perhaps the most glaring oversight of the unranked players, Maxey ranks sixth in the NBA in scoring and is proving that he’s an elite shot maker. He’s also showing that he can drag the Sixers to victories, even if Embiid is unavailable.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

14. Devin Booker, guard, Phoenix Suns

2025-26 stats: 25.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 6.3 apg

Although the Suns were seemingly entering an apparent rebuild, Booker’s play has helped Phoenix (32-23) become one of the surprises out West. His silky jumper and ability to orchestrate an offense has been on display following the departures of Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.

Pre-season ranking: 15th

13. Jalen Brunson, guard, New York Knicks

2025-26 stats: 27.0 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 6.1 apg

Although the ball sometimes stagnates in his hands, it’s for a good reason; Brunson is effective in the clutch, can get to the line and has excellent understanding of body positioning and leverage. He’s also a tireless worker.

Pre-season ranking: 11th

12. Kevin Durant, forward, Houston Rockets

2025-26 stats: 25.8 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 4.4 apg

His assimilation into the Rockets hasn’t been without its hiccups, but Durant remains one of the elite scorers in the game, even at 37 years old. He’s more reliant than ever on his jumper, but it’s still lethal.

Pre-season ranking: 9th

11. Donovan Mitchell, guard, Cleveland Cavaliers

2025-26 stats: 29.0 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 5.9 apg

He still needs to dispel the notion that he cannot perform well in the postseason, and the acquisition of James Harden will only intensify that pressure. But Mitchell is a strong guard who can score at all three levels, take over games and distribute when needed.

Pre-season ranking: 10th

10. Jaylen Brown, guard, Boston Celtics

2025-26 stats: 29.3 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 4.7 apg

This season has shown what Brown can do when he’s the No. 1 threat on a team. He ranks fourth in the league in scoring, has become a nightmare matchup on defense and has willed the Celtics (35-19) all the way to the current No. 2 seed in the East, even without Jayson Tatum (Achilles) and the departures of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis.

Pre-season ranking: 20th

9. Kawhi Leonard, forward, Los Angeles Clippers

2025-26 stats: 27.9 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 3.7 apg

He was the main reason why the Clippers came back from the dead, after an abysmal start to the season. Yet, with James Harden and Ivica Zubac now gone, Leonard becomes even more important. His absolute clinic in the 2026 All-Star Game showed that he’s among the best in the world when he’s on.

Pre-season ranking: 14th

8. Stephen Curry, guard, Golden State Warriors

2025-26 stats: 27.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 4.8 apg

The greatest shooter of all-time and the player who fights hardest to get separation and space, Curry is a singular talent. He’s also the Warriors’ only hope to make a run, and Golden State’s window to win is quickly closing.

Pre-season ranking: 6th

7. Cade Cunningham, guard, Detroit Pistons

2025-26 stats: 25.3 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 9.6 apg

Somehow, Cunningham still flies under the radar relative to other stars in the NBA. Yet he is the main reason the Pistons (40-13) have had their remarkable turnaround over the last two seasons, and his command of Detroit’s offense makes him a legitimate MVP candidate.

Pre-season ranking: 12th

6. Luka Dončić, guard, Los Angeles Lakers

2025-26 stats: 32.8 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 8.6 apg

He leads the league in scoring, and he’s arguably the premier offensive player in the NBA, but he has become such a defensive liability, it’s hard to justify him being in the Top 5. Opposing teams constantly seek him out and attack him on the other end. Still, with the game on the line, or when L.A. needs a big shot, you know who’s going to take it.

Pre-season ranking: 4th

5. Anthony Edwards, guard, Minnesota Timberwolves

2025-26 stats: 29.3 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 3.7 apg

The 2026 NBA All-Star Most Valuable Player, Edwards is a threat to score from anywhere. Though it may appear as though he’s too reliant on his 3, he’s converting those at a career-high 40.2%.

Pre-season ranking: 5th

4. Victor Wembanyama, forward-center, San Antonio Spurs

2025-26 stats: 24.4 ppg, 11.1 rpg, 2.8 apg

Arguably no player impacts the game on both ends of the floor more than Wembanyama. He leads the NBA with 2.7 blocks per game and his offensive portfolio continues to evolve. His greatest asset, however, might be his competitiveness.

Pre-season ranking: 7th

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, forward-center, Milwaukee Bucks

2025-26 stats: 28.0 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 5.6 apg

His future in Milwaukee seems secure – for now – but Antetokounmpo needs to shake off nagging calf injuries that have robbed him of time on the court. He’s the best transition scorer in the world and his size, power, length and athleticism make him a nightmare to defend. His jump shot, though, is still a weakness.

Pre-season ranking: 3rd

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, guard, Oklahoma City Thunder

2025-26 stats: 31.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 6.4 apg

Though he was banged up headed into the All-Star break, Gilgeous-Alexander is the preeminent model of consistency in the NBA. His scoring streak of at least 20 points stands at 121 games, which is just six away from Wilt Chamberlain’s all-time record.

Pre-season ranking: 2nd

1. Nikola Jokić, center, Denver Nuggets

2025-26 stats: 28.7 ppg, 12.3 rpg, 10.7 apg

The only player this season to average a triple-double, Jokić is the most dominant presence in the entire NBA. His vision is unparalleled. His footwork and finesse under the basket is flawless. His knowledge and expertise of the game gives Denver such a massive advantage. For a lot of fans, the most frustrating part about Jokić is his apparent apathy when it comes to things like the All-Star Game. Don’t fall into that trap; he’s one of the all-time great players in history.

Pre-season ranking: 1st

Players who were ranked in the preseason Top 25, but fell off the list: Ja Morant, Grizzlies (25th); James Harden, Cavaliers (23rd); Jimmy Butler, Warriors (22nd); Evan Mobley, Cavaliers (21st); Jalen Williams, Thunder (17th); Anthony Davis, Wizards (13th).

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ranking NBA's best players, new top 25 after All-Star break

Welcome to Inside the Suns, your weekly deep down analysis of the current Phoenix Suns team. Each week the Fantable — a round table of Bright Siders — give their takes on the Suns’ latest issues and news.

Fantable Questions of the Week

Q1: What are your thoughts on the Suns’ signing of Haywood Highsmith?

Diamondhacks: In theory, “Locksmith” seems to fit Ott’s prototype (wingspan, D, 3pt%), but I’m more generally wary of 29-year-old stoppers coming off knee surgery. My second impression of Highsmith is that his name is well above average. Not up there with Jamaree Bouyea or Oso Ighodaro. But it’s still pretty fun to say. Hay-wood High-smith.

Ashton: When this was first announced, I was like, “Who?”

This is one of those questions where it would be so much easier to link writers’ articles for background research. I highly recommend Bruce Veliz’s Player Breakdown article on Highsmith, while giving JV and the commentators some credit.

So, what can I add on a slow NBA week? The guy played for Wheeling Jesuit University and was selected as a DII Player of the Year in 2018. Seriously, raise your hand if you watched one game from what is now Wheeling University. I watch a lot of college basketball, but I am not that much of a CBB savant.

The cost is low, and this is a low-risk and potentially medium-reward scenario.

In the end, it really does not move the needle that much for me. I tend to agree with commenters that size would have been nice as a backup to RO.

OldAz: I understand the fans who wanted the Suns to sign Sochan or some other released player, but I file this squarely under “In Brian Gregory we trust”. At this point, he has earned that in putting together a roster that is both fun to watch and competitive right now. This is especially true after all the skepticism and doubt thrown his way when he was chosen as GM.

As for Highsmith, while the injury history might be a concern, his potential fit as an added wing that can shoot and his playoff experience is attractive. The low cost of a 2 year deal, with what I believe is a team option, makes this a low risk, high reward type of deal. As for those who still wanted Sochan, he reminds me too much of Kelly Oubre, who was a fan favorite but was far more style than substance when he was with the Suns. Maybe in a couple of years, Sochan will be more than that, but if he were right now, then San Antonio would have placed a higher priority on re-signing him.

Rod: I like it. Sure, I would have preferred a taller, PF type, but adding another long-armed 3&D wing that can guard multiple positions is not a bad thing. No one available was likely to significantly tip the scales for the Suns, but Swiss army knife types are always great to have around to plug injury-induced holes in the player rotation and/or bring in when a particular player is just having an off night.

Q2: Were you surprised at how well Devin Booker performed in the All-Star Weekend three-point contest?

Diamondhacks: I’m surprised, even after accounting for glaring contextual differences between shooting threes in-game vs standing next to a Rack Of Balls. Mostly because Devin’s woeful .311 3FG% looks to me validated by the magnitude (not just the frequency) of his misses. There’s been very little in and out from 3, to chalk up to a little fine-tuning here or random variation there. Even his relatively open threes look kinda broken. But if he’s got balls, rack em up!

Ashton: Absolutely! I was firmly on the side of putting Book’s ankle in bubble wrap and ice and let him sit this one out. If I were a gambling man, I would have said first-round exit.

But he looked really good up to those final three shots.

But I also side with the commentators that it helps not to have a man (or two) in your face. Maybe the ASG can restructure the three-point contest next year, because they are always tweaking something, so that the final rack involves a defender.

OldAz: Not really. He has been there before and won it in 2018. The contest setting is controlled, and he can get into a good rhythm. Unlike game situations, where sometimes his 3 is less reliable, he has far less to be concerned about, and he (by design) has his shoulders square and his weight under him. I am actually more surprised that he went cold and didn’t hit one or more of his last few shots to win it again. When under control, his form is about as good as it comes (behind all-time greats like Ray Allen and Reggie Miller’s picture-perfect from 3).

Rod: No, because it’s an almost completely different setting/situation. Book is a great shooter, and with all of the contest shots being basically set shots, it shouldn’t surprise anyone. To me, it points out just how important it is to set Book up for open three attempts in games instead of counting on him to create his own opportunities. In the mid-range, he’s really good at doing that but from three…not so much. Generating open threes for Book isn’t going to be easy though as he’s still the primary focus of opponents’ defenses.

Q3: It has been reported that Houston originally offered the Suns Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. instead of Dillon Brooks for Kevin Durant, but the Suns turned down that offer and insisted on Brooks instead. If true, do you believe the Suns made the right decision?

Diamondhacks: In terms of tangible player evaluation (and regardless of Smith’s longer contractual obligation), I’d guess that most GMs coming off 36-46 would still tend to value 22-year-old Jabari Smith over Dillon (30). So much so that this seems to me more of a Governor’s initiative/preference.

Mat Ishbia was unusually outspoken this offseason about prioritizing a hungry vibe for the team over conventional industry wisdom about talent – and perhaps even wins and losses themselves. His team was going to go down fighting, annoying opponents, and now that Patrick Beverley has retired, I suppose Dillon Brooks may be the NBA’s ultimate MAT (Maximally Annoying Template).

Ashton: If you had this question on the trade between Durant and possibilities, I would have stumped for Jabari Smith Jr. over Brooks. I mean a third overall pick (2022) from a powerhouse team in Auburn at a position of need at Power Forward?

Sign me up. I have not even heard of this rumor or reporting, and I am not sure why the Suns brass would not have done this. Smith just scored his third double-double! And Houston doesn’t even really need him with KS managing the position.

This is a really tough question as Brooks has instilled the toughness culture in the Suns team and has basically been a Manimal. But how many more games do we get to see him as he simply can not stop flapping his gums. Suspension here, probably future suspensions there. This will not change.

Yeah, let’s see what the commentators have to say, but put me in the Dr. Who phone booth and take Jabari Smith Jr.

Too badthe Suns could not swing a trade for Brooks and Smith Jr.

OldAz: See my question #1 answer again. “In Brian Gregory we trust.” We have seen the folly of chasing the best talent with no consideration for chemistry or leadership. The Suns’ best seasons recently were with CP3 filling a leadership role next to Book. Despite his diminishing (although still great) skills during his time here, CP3 gave the team a heart and drive that fueled that team’s identity. The same can be said of Dillon Brooks and what he has brought this season. While there is a significant step down in talent between Smith Jr and Brooks, the impact of Brooks’ attitude and fit within Ott’s defensive first mindset has been obvious.

However, Smith Jr would seem to be a prefect fit defensively with his length and athleticism, so in the long run Suns fans could be lamenting missing out on such a pivotal piece, especially if Maluach does not develop into the 3rd piece coming back in that KD trade (I have to assume that the Green and Smith Jr version did not include additional draft picks like the Brooks version did). But even in this case, the choice of Brooks has helped establish an identity that the team was sorely lacking before this season. That chemistry and identity, along with Ott’s success, is maximizing a deep bench, will go a long way towards attracting the minimum contracts the Suns will need to maintain (and grow) this year’s success.

Rod: I remember a lot of fans voiced the opinion that they would have preferred Smith to Brooks when that trade happened and I was one of them. A young 6’11” power forward like Smith just fit the Suns’ needs better than Brooks but the culture change in Phoenix, which I give a lot of credit to Brooks for, is something that I hate to think we might have missed out on if the trade had gone down differently.

Could the team have actually turned out better with Smith rather than Brooks? It’s certainly possible but, as there’s no way to actually prove that, I’m not bothered by the way it turned out. GM Brian Gregory has done a really good job so far, and I definitely trust his judgment on roster construction matters more than my own.

As always, many thanks to our Fantable members for all their extra effort this week!

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Quotes of the Week

“This one hurt a little bit. I wanted this one bad. Wish I was defending it in Phoenix but it’ll probably be the last time I do it next year if I get the invite. I’m looking forward to it.” – Devin Booker on his performance in the 3-point contest

“No matter what, through good or bad or indifferent, his loyalty has stayed present and his love of the game has stayed present. If they had a good team, if they had a bad team, his leadership style didn’t change. His joy for the game every day, trying to get better, is admirable for sure.” – Jamal Crawford on Devin Booker

“Dillon (Brooks) is a hardworking man. He’s someone to rally behind. He’s a fierce competitor. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I’d rather too competitive than to be the other way. It’s been a pleasure playing with him.” – Devin Booker

“I just don’t think we’ve been as good defensively, honestly. That’s where we got to get back to.” – Jordan Ott

“Coach Ott has done a tremendous job. He has created an environment where our guys are allowed and given permission to become the very best version of themselves. Not only as players, but as men as well.” – Brian Gregory

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Suns Trivia/History

This season, Mark Williams ranks:

– 2nd in NBA in offensive rating
– 2nd in NBA in true shooting % (69.8)
– 3rd in NBA FG% (66.5)
– 6th in NBA in win shares/48 min
– 12th in NBA in PER
– 18th in NBA in defensive rating
– 19th in NBA in total win shares

Per @bball_refpic.twitter.com/mcOUq8mxsg

— The Lead (@TheLeadSM) February 18, 2026

On February 20, 2002, the Suns traded Rodney Rogers and Tony Delk to the Boston Celtics for Joe Johnson, Randy Brown, Milt Palacio and a 2002 first-round draft pick. Although a rookie, Johnson quickly moved into the starting lineup in Phoenix playing in 29 games (27 starts) and amassed 9.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.6 APG and 0.9 SPG in 31.5 MPG.

On February 22, 1977, Alvan Adams recorded a triple-double with 47 points, 18 rebounds, 12 assists and five blocked shots against the Buffalo Braves. He is one of five players in NBA history (along with Elgin Baylor, Wilt Chamberlain, Russell Westbrook and Vince Carter) to have as many as 46 points and 16 rebounds in a triple-double performance. The night before the game, Adams also ate 47 chicken wings from a local Buffalo restaurant.

On February 25, 1983, Walter Davis set an all-time NBA record when he successfully scored his first 34 points before finally missing a shot. He made his first 15 field goals and converted four straight free throws before missing a jumper with 55 seconds left in the game.

On February 25, 2019, the Suns came back from a 63-52 halftime deficit to defeat the Heat in Miami 124-121 to break the longest losing streak in franchise history (17 games).

On February 26, 1987, the Suns appointed Dick Van Arsdale as Interim Head Coach to replace John MacLeod after he was fired following a 22-34 start for the Suns. Phoenix won 14-12 under Van Arsdale, finished the season 36-46 and missed the playoffs for the 2nd consecutive season. MacLeod had been the Suns head coach since 1973 and had previously led the Suns to the playoffs nine times (and their first trip to the NBA Finals in 1976) during his thirteen full seasons as head coach.

On February 26, 1988, the Phoenix Suns, unhappy with the prospect of heading for a fourth consecutive losing season, traded All-Star forward Larry Nance and Mike Sanders to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Mark West, Tyrone Corbin and Kevin Johnson. In the exchange, Phoenix also sent the Cavaliers the 1988 first-round pick they got from Detroit for William Bedford and received the Cavaliers’ first-round choice in 1988 and their second-round choices in 1988 and 1989.

The Suns then made their third deal in two days – an exchange of small guards – as Phoenix sent Jay Humphries to the Milwaukee Bucks for Craig Hodges and their 1988 second-round draft pick.

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This Week’s Game Schedule

Thursday, Feb 19 – Suns @ San Antonio Spurs (6:30 pm)
Saturday, Feb 21 – Suns vs Orlando Magic (3:00 pm) NBA TV
Sunday, Feb 22 – Suns vs Portland Trail Blazers (6:00)
Tuesday, Feb 24 – Suns vs Boston Celtics (7:00 pm)

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This Week’s Valley Suns Game Schedule

Friday, Feb 20 – Valley Suns @ Sioux Falls Skyforce (7:00 pm)
Sunday, Feb 22 – Valley Suns @ Sioux Falls Skyforce (3:00 pm)
Wednesday, Feb 25. Valley Suns vs South Bay Lakers (1:00 pm)

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Important Future Dates

March 1 – Playoff eligibility waiver deadline
March 4 – Final day to sign players to two-way contracts
March 28 – NBA G League Regular Season ends
March 31 – 2026 NBA G League Playoffs begin
April 12 – Regular season ends (All 30 teams play)
April 13 – Rosters set for NBA Playoffs 2026 (3 p.m. ET)
April 14-17 – SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament
April 18 – NBA Playoffs begin

Good morning, it’s Thursday, February 19th. The Cleveland Cavaliers are 34-21 and finally play basketball again for the first time since last Wednesday.

A lot has happened since we last previewed a Cavs game. I totaled my car. Jaylon Tyson and Donovan Mitchell competed in All-Star weekend. And, Cleveland went a few days in a row without snowing or dipping below freezing. All in all, not too bad.

The Cavs will host the Brooklyn Nets tonight at 7 PM. Cleveland is 1-0 against the Nets this season.

Today’s Game of the Day

• Detroit Pistons at New York Knicks – 7:30 PM, Prime Video

There’s a power vacuum in the East this season. And even with the best record in basketball, the Pistons are still trying to prove that they belong at the top of the conference. A showdown with the Knicks could help them earn some more goodwill.

But, as Cavs fans know, the only way to beat the ‘regular season merchant’ accusations is to prove it in the playoffs. A win tonight won’t cement the Pistons. But it could be a fun statement game regardless.

The rest of the NBA schedule

• Indiana Pacers at Washington Wizards – 7 PM
• Atlanta Hawks at Philadelphia 76ers – 7 PM
• Houston Rockets at Charlotte Hornets – 7 PM
• Toronto Raptors at Chicago Bulls – 8 PM
• Phoenix Suns at San Antonio Spurs – 8:30 PM
• Orlando Magic at Sacramento Kings – 10 PM
• Boston Celtics at Golden State Warriors – 10 PM
• Denver Nuggets at LA Clippers – 10:30 PM

Cavs links of the day

• Cavs star Donovan Mitchell gets hilarious results in NBA Player Poll – Fear the Sword
• Predicting Cavs rotation after All-Star Break – Sports Illustrated
• Early James Harden Impressions (VIDEO) – Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show

NBA links

• Five biggest things to watch as NBA returns from All-Star Break – Yahoo Sports
• NBA Viewers Guide – ESPN

Hey look, everyone. We’re hand-wringing again!

Those mean coaches and players, fresh off a high-intensity game where their very financial livelihood is dependent, are bullying the poor, misunderstood clowns from the stands just trying to post their latest TikTok and chase social cred, that’s all.

Or as we like to say in these most wonderful United States, storming the (insert your playing surface).

Here’s what I call it: a world of no rules. 

Not to mention reckless, dangerous and a false sense of security.

Yet with all of that, and even after another dolt from the stands shoved a phone in the face of Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg seconds after a loss to rival Iowa, and screamed at him; even after Hoiberg tried to knock the phone from said dolt, missed and his swing connected with an Iowa staffer in the handshake line, we refuse to end this nonsense with clear and unambiguous rules. 

Save the cash: Kansas State is embarrassing itself not to protect basketball, but help football

Bracketology: Who is rising in latest March Madness predictions

If you storm the court (or field) before players and officials have exited, you’ll be arrested and lose ticket privileges forever. Period.

pic.twitter.com/kIxSZtqLuL

— Certified Ball Knower 🇺🇸 (@CrtfdBallKnower) February 18, 2026

Instead, university presidents have decided to fine each other. The ACC fined North Carolina $50,000 earlier this month when its fans stormed the court after beating rival Duke, and the Big Ten will no doubt fine Iowa for its latest breach of rules. 

The same North Carolina that is currently fueling its football NIL to the tune of $20 million. That 50K might be a bridge too far, baby.

But as the NCAA (also, collection of university presidents) has shown decade after decade, having rules and enforcing them are two distinctly different things.

This isn’t a matter of want, it’s a mater of will. 

Know why the NFL doesn’t have problems with field storming? Because the most successful sport in the history of the planet doesn’t put up with it.

There’s a police presence, and there are rules. There’s no gray area about what happens when you enter the field of play at an NFL stadium. 

You’ll spend the next few hours in the local lockup, for starters. And just might get a shoulder pad to the solar plexus by one of 100-plus players on the field before the cops toss you in the back of a wagon.

College sports has decided to fine the universities, not the actual perpetrators. College sports has decided to fine each other, and move more fungible money between schools within the conference, instead of targeting the offenders. 

I’m shocked, absolutely shocked, something much worse hasn’t happened on one of the many court and field stormings. Because the law of averages says it will, and when it does, college sports will do what it does best. 

Feign disbelief, and reactively make sweeping changes at the horror of it all. 

Here’s a novel idea: Try proactive steps to eliminate the problem. Not a dopey fine, or an announcement over the PA system. 

This isn’t about the “tradition” of storming the field, or running on the court at a buzzer-beater. This is a few hundred students on the field with phones lifted high, recording for prosperity. 

Or Instagram. Whichever comes first. 

This isn’t about eliminating what makes college sports special, or the purity of college sports over homogenized professional sports. No one is taking away your precious look-at-me moment. 

Just making you wait three minutes so players and officials can exit the joint. Hell, we’ll throw a countdown clock with a horn into the equation, so everyone can run on the field or floor and get stupid at the same time. 

TikTok to your heart’s content, everybody. 

Or we can keep doing dumb, and the next incident won’t be so simple and eventually forgettable.

The next incident might be much closer to what happened three years ago, when Alabama wideout Jermaine Burton took a swing at a coed who ran by and yelled something at him after Tennessee beat the Tide in overtime. 

Some player or coach somewhere will directly connect at some point, and when the clown holding the phone hits the deck and is seriously injured, we’ll scream and yell about it for weeks, post about it on social media and demand change. 

When we knew the answer all along. 

There are rules, and there are consequences for those who don’t follow rules. Despite what you may have heard, that’s not a foreign concept.

Coaches ask players to compete like a pack of wild dogs on the court and field, expending every ounce of energy like you’re livelihood depended on it. Because now, in the new era of NIL, it does.

But don’t mind clowns with their phones, picking at the fresh wound during your lowest moment of the week or year. 

They’re just kids, and it’s tradition.

There are no rules. 

Matt Hayes is the senior national college football writer for USA TODAY Network. Follow him on X at @MattHayesCFB.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College basketball court stormings don't need to stop, just wait a minute

CHONBURI, Thailand (AP) — Nasa Hataoka shot a 7-under 65 Thursday on the Siam Country Club Old Course and was tied for the lead after the opening round at the LPGA Thailand, the first of three tournaments in Asia in consecutive weeks.

Hataoka, who was runner-up at the 2021 U.S. Women’s Open, has won five individual LPGA tournaments and two in the International Crown team event.

She was tied Thursday with Thailand's Chanettee Wannasaen. Gemma Dryburgh, who opened her round with an eagle and three birdies, was a stroke behind with a 66 and level with Somi Lee and Hye-Jin Choi.

“I think my tee shots and iron shots were pretty good today, and that’s why I was able to create so many birdie chances,” said the 27-year-old Hatoaka.

Top-ranked Jeeno Thitikul and Lydia Ko shot 67s and were in a group of 10 tied for sixth. Defending champion Angel Yin had a 69.

The 22-year-old Thitikul first played her home LPGA tournament in Thailand when she was 14.

“I couldn’t believe like time flies so fast," she said. “I mean, yesterday I just sitting on the coach in the hotel room and imagine I couldn’t believe how far that I have been come from 14 to now.”

Nelly Korda won for the first time in 14 months without having to hit a shot when the LPGA's season-opening Tournament of Champions was reduced to 54 holes on Feb. 1 because of wind and cold that made the Lake Nona course in Florida unsuitable for a final round.

World second-ranked Korda is not in Thailand and won't be at the next two tournament stops in Singapore and China — she's skipping the early Asia swing for the third consecutive year.

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AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

Dallas Mavericks (19-35, 12th in the Western Conference) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (34-22, sixth in the Western Conference)

Minneapolis; Friday, 7:30 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Timberwolves -11.5; over/under is 235.5

BOTTOM LINE: Minnesota hosts the Dallas Mavericks after Julius Randle scored 41 points in the Minnesota Timberwolves' 133-109 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.

The Timberwolves are 19-17 in conference matchups. Minnesota is 4-4 in one-possession games.

The Mavericks are 11-25 against Western Conference opponents. Dallas ranks sixth in the Western Conference with 44.7 rebounds per game led by P.J. Washington averaging 7.0.

The Timberwolves average 14.3 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.2 more made shots on average than the 12.1 per game the Mavericks give up. The Mavericks are shooting 47.1% from the field, 0.9% higher than the 46.2% the Timberwolves' opponents have shot this season.

The teams square off for the third time this season. The Timberwolves won the last meeting 118-105 on Jan. 29, with Randle scoring 31 points in the win.

TOP PERFORMERS: Randle is averaging 22.3 points, seven rebounds and 5.4 assists for the Timberwolves. Anthony Edwards is averaging 25.0 points over the last 10 games.

Naji Marshall is averaging 15.1 points for the Mavericks. Max Christie is averaging 14.9 points over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Timberwolves: 7-3, averaging 121.8 points, 44.7 rebounds, 26.0 assists, 10.2 steals and 6.4 blocks per game while shooting 49.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 113.5 points per game.

Mavericks: 1-9, averaging 112.9 points, 44.6 rebounds, 23.3 assists, 6.9 steals and 4.9 blocks per game while shooting 45.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 121.0 points.

INJURIES: Timberwolves: Terrence Shannon Jr.: out (foot).

Mavericks: Dereck Lively II: out for season (foot), Kyrie Irving: out for season (knee), Cooper Flagg: out (foot), Caleb Martin: day to day (ankle), Daniel Gafford: day to day (ankle), Naji Marshall: day to day (foot).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Milwaukee Bucks (23-30, 12th in the Eastern Conference) vs. New Orleans Pelicans (15-41, 14th in the Western Conference)

New Orleans; Friday, 8 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Pelicans -3.5; over/under is 225.5

BOTTOM LINE: The Milwaukee Bucks take on the New Orleans Pelicans in non-conference play.

The Pelicans have gone 9-20 in home games. New Orleans is 6-18 in games decided by 10 or more points.

The Bucks are 11-18 on the road. Milwaukee is sixth in the Eastern Conference with 32.5 defensive rebounds per game led by Giannis Antetokounmpo averaging 7.2.

The Pelicans are shooting 46.2% from the field this season, 0.2 percentage points lower than the 46.4% the Bucks allow to opponents. The Bucks are shooting 48.1% from the field, 0.3% higher than the 47.8% the Pelicans' opponents have shot this season.

The teams play for the second time this season. The Bucks won the last matchup 141-137 in overtime on Feb. 5, with Ryan Rollins scoring 27 points in the victory.

TOP PERFORMERS: Trey Murphy III is averaging 22.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.5 steals for the Pelicans. Saddiq Bey is averaging 21.8 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.5 assists over the last 10 games.

Rollins is averaging 16.9 points, 5.5 assists and 1.5 steals for the Bucks. AJ Green is averaging 2.9 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Pelicans: 5-5, averaging 114.2 points, 44.5 rebounds, 26.5 assists, 8.4 steals and 5.6 blocks per game while shooting 45.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 113.1 points per game.

Bucks: 5-5, averaging 110.2 points, 44.7 rebounds, 25.4 assists, 5.8 steals and 4.6 blocks per game while shooting 47.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.7 points.

INJURIES: Pelicans: Yves Missi: day to day (calf), Trey Murphy III: day to day (shoulder), Micah Peavy: day to day (toe), Dejounte Murray: out (achilles).

Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo: day to day (calf), Myles Turner: day to day (calf), Taurean Prince: out (neck), Ryan Rollins: day to day (foot).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Utah Jazz (18-38, 13th in the Western Conference) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (20-33, 11th in the Western Conference)

Memphis, Tennessee; Friday, 7 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Grizzlies -4.5; over/under is 241.5

BOTTOM LINE: Memphis will try to break its four-game slide when the Grizzlies play Utah.

The Grizzlies have gone 16-21 against Western Conference opponents. Memphis is sixth in the league with 28.7 assists per game. Cam Spencer leads the Grizzlies averaging 5.6.

The Jazz are 10-25 in Western Conference play. Utah allows 125.9 points to opponents and has been outscored by 7.6 points per game.

The Grizzlies average 13.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.0 fewer makes per game than the Jazz allow (15.5). The Jazz average 118.3 points per game, 0.8 more than the 117.5 the Grizzlies allow.

The teams square off for the third time this season. The Grizzlies won the last matchup 137-128 on Dec. 24, with Santi Aldama scoring 37 points in the win.

TOP PERFORMERS: Aldama is shooting 47.9% and averaging 14.0 points for the Grizzlies. GG Jackson is averaging 13.1 points over the last 10 games.

Keyonte George is averaging 23.8 points and 6.5 assists for the Jazz. Brice Sensabaugh is averaging 2.5 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Grizzlies: 2-8, averaging 114.1 points, 39.8 rebounds, 27.0 assists, 10.6 steals and 4.2 blocks per game while shooting 46.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 121.1 points per game.

Jazz: 3-7, averaging 114.8 points, 45.5 rebounds, 29.0 assists, 10.1 steals and 3.6 blocks per game while shooting 47.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 117.3 points.

INJURIES: Grizzlies: Ja Morant: out (elbow), Walter Clayton Jr.: day to day (calf), Zach Edey: out (ankle), Cedric Coward: day to day (knee), Santi Aldama: day to day (knee), Brandon Clarke: out (calf).

Jazz: Keyonte George: day to day (ankle), Oscar Tshiebwe: day to day (concussion), Walker Kessler: out for season (shoulder), Jaren Jackson Jr.: out for season (knee).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Graham Ike had 22 points and No. 11 Gonzaga cruised to an 80-59 victory over San Francisco on Wednesday night.

Ike, the leading scorer in the West Coast Conference, has scored 20 or more in eight consecutive games. That matches the school record shared by Adam Morrison and Derek Raivio, both in 2006.

Mario Saint-Supery added 14 points and six assists for Gonzaga (26-2, 14-1), which holds a one-game lead in the league standings over Saint Mary's and Santa Clara. Emmanuel Innocenti had 12 points and eight rebounds, while Jalen Warely scored 11.

The Bulldogs beat the Dons for the 35th straight time, dating to 2012.

Tyrone Riley IV had 16 points for San Francisco (15-14, 7-9) in the final regular-season matchup between the programs before Gonzaga moves to the revamped Pac-12 next season.

Ike, the reigning WCC player of the week, sputtered with his shot most of the night and had to score nine points over the final five minutes to keep his streak going.

The game was played at Chase Center, home of the NBA's Golden State Warriors.

Both teams got off to a slow start.

San Francisco missed 11 of its first 15 shots and committed seven turnovers in the opening 10 minutes but still led 17-14 because of its rebounding and defense.

The Bulldogs went scoreless for five minutes late in the first half before Davis Fogle got them back on track. The freshman guard scored five points, including an emphatic dunk that led to a three-point play, as part of a big run that helped Gonzaga to a 41-29 lead at halftime.

Up next

Gonzaga hosts Pacific on Saturday.

San Francisco hosts Santa Clara on Saturday.

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KOLKATA, India (AP) — West Indies completed the T20 World Cup group stage undefeated after dismissing Italy for 123 and winning by 42 runs on Thursday.

Italy finished its maiden World Cup appearance with plaudits after stunning Nepal and losing to England narrowly, Scotland and the West Indies.

Both teams struggled on what appeared to be a good batting pitch at Eden Gardens.

West Indies captain Shai Hope starred with 75 off 46 balls, his second straight World Cup half-century, and the next best score was Ben Manenti's 26 for Italy.

West Indies defended a sub-par 165. Italy lost three wickets in the powerplay thanks to medium-pacer Matthew Forde, and pacer Shamar Joseph limited Italy in the middle and death overs with 4-30. Joseph also took four catches.

Hope kept the West Indies from floundering, opening the batting and hitting four sixes and six boundaries until he was bowled by Crishan Kalugamage in the 16th over.

In the Super Eights, the West Indies will face 2024 champion India, 2024 runner-up South Africa, and Zimbabwe, which knocked out Australia.

"We'll have to find ways to be more forceful when the crunch time comes,” Hope said. “We have batting depth but we need to be smart. Need to be clinical with strokeplay. Need to capitalize on deliveries. (We're) in good shape going into the Super Eights.”

Italy captain Harry Manenti said he was proud of their ability to stay in the fight, notably against full members England and the West Indies.

“We haven't played the perfect game despite showing promise in moments,” Manenti said. “It's important for all associate nations to be funded and well looked after, which is tough. If we keep getting support from the ICC, if we get more cricket, we'll get more competitive. Lack of games have hurt us (but) the more we play the higher are the chances to close out games like this.”

Later Thursday

Sri Lanka chose to bat first against Zimbabwe in the day's second match in Colombo.

Afghanistan, which made the semifinals in 2024 and lost a thrilling double super over against South Africa this week, will meet Canada in its last Group D match.

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AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

Since the last time these teams met, the Houston Rockets actually won a couple of games and looked like a real basketball team before the All-Star break came and, well…you know. The Charlotte Hornets finally lost a game while getting into a big fight with the Detroit Pistons. Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate are suspended for tonight’s contest due to the dustup.

Still, these teams were heading in opposite directions when the break happened. For the eternally optimistic, that should be a boon for the Rockets and trouble for the Hornets. What I remember from the first matchup between these teams was the clear difference in confidence and energy. Charlotte was playing like a team that was excited to be in the building and the Rockets looked like they just got off a 9-to-5 shift at the quarry and couldn’t wait to go home and take their shoes off.

With a win tonight, the Hornets could be the first (and maybe only?) team to sweep the Rockets this season. I expect Brandon Miller, LaMelo Ball, and Kon Kneuppel to each drop 20 tonight.

Tip-off

6pm CT

How To Watch

Space City Home Network

Injury Report

Rockets

Steven Adams: OUT

Fred VanVleet: OUT

Hornets

Coby White: OUT

Moussa Diabate: OUT

Miles Bridges: OUT

The Line (as of this post)

Hou -4.5

Check here for updates

Looking ahead because we can

Saturday in New York against the New York Knicks

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) — Seydou Traore scored 17 points and grabbed six rebounds, and Utah held off West Virginia's desperate rally and beat the Mountaineers 61-56 on Wednesday night.

Terrence Brown and Don McHenry each scored 16 points for the Utes, who never trailed and ended a seven-game losing streak. Utah (10-16, 2-11 Big 12) entered the contest have lost 12 of its last 13.

It was also Utah’s first true road victory since Jan. 15, 2025 when the Utes beat TCU, 73-65.

Reserve Chance Moore and Honor Huff scored 12 points apiece and Brenen Lorient scored 10 for West Virginia.

Both teams left points on the table via the foul line with Utah shooting 14 of 21 and West Virginia at 7 of 15.

Utah led 59-56 with 5.6 seconds left when West Virginia intentionally fouled Traore who missed both foul shots. Jasper Floyd grabbed the defensive rebound but then threw a pass out of bounds trying to connect with Huff. Brown made a pair of foul shots to seal it.

The Utes led 31-21 at halftime and used a 15-5 run to start the second half for their largest lead of the game, 41-26. The Mountaineers then outscored Utah 16-6 over a 7-minute span to get within 47-42 with 8:58 left.

West Virginia's (16-10, 7-6) NCAA Tournament hopes received a substantial blow with the home loss to Quad-3 Utah.

The Mountaineers have a win against Kansas — but in a loaded Big 12 — owns losses to ranked conference opponents Arizona, Houston, Iowa State and Texas Tech.

Up Next

Utah: Will host UCF on Saturday.

West Virginia: Travels to face TCU on Saturday. ___

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STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP) — Josh Hubbard made a program-record 10 3-pointers and scored a career-high 46 points Wednesday night as Mississippi State blew an 18-point lead and then rallied to beat Auburn 91-85.

Hubbard, a 6-foot junior, broke the previous mark of eight 3s (done six times) before halftime, making 9 of 12 from behind the arc and scoring 35 points, two more than Auburn (33), as the Bulldogs took a 16-point lead into the intermission.

Hubbard, who has scored at least 30 points in three consecutive games, also set the Mississippi State (13-13, 5-8) record for points in an SEC game, breaking Bailey Howell’s mark of 45, set against LSU on Feb. 22, 1958. Howell also holds the record for points in a game with 47 against Union on Dec. 4, 1958.

Auburn (14-12, 5-8) has lost five games in a row.

Keyshawn Hall led the Tigers with 29 points and 10 rebounds. Tahaad Pettiford scored 21 and Kevin Overton added 15 points.

Hubbard made a layup with 1:11 left and, after Hall made 1 of 2 free throws, hit a corner 3-pointer that gave Mississippi State an 85-83 lead 27 seconds later. Achor Achor blocked consecutive shots by Hall, Ja’Borri McGhee made two free throws, and Jamarion Davis-Fleming blocked a layup attempt by Overton with 14 seconds left.

KeShawn Murphy put back his own miss to give Auburn its first lead at 64-63 with 8:50 remaining.

The Bulldogs scored the first seven points and Hubbard had 13 — which included back-to-back-to-back 3s — as they jumped to a 21-6 lead about eight minutes into the game.

Up next

Auburn: Hosts Kentucky on Saturday.

Mississippi State: Plays Saturday at South Carolina.

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