Basketball – Page 10 – Worldwide Sports News

June 25, 2025

Rockets, Fred VanVleet agree to new two-year, $50 million team-friendly contract

Houston wants to make a run next season at the franchise's first title since “This is how we do it" was still a top-10 song, but that won't happen without Fred VanVleet as a steady hand at the point.

Which is why the Rockets agreed to a new two-year contract with VanVleet. The Rockets are declining VanVleet's $44.9 million player option for next season and will re-sign him on a two-year, $50 million contract, a story broken by Shams Charania of ESPN.

This is a team-friendly deal for the Rockets that gets them below the luxury tax line, helping them avoid the repeater tax. It also opens up the full $14.1 million mid-level exception to add more talent to the roster. For VanVleet, it's more total money and an extra year of security.

VanVleet averaged 14.1 points and 5.6 assists per game, and while he shot 34.5% from 3-point range, he was inconsistent and had a 51.5 true shooting percentage, well below the league average. However, he fit in well with one of the best defenses in the league on the other end of the court.

Houston made its bold offseason move trading for Kevin Durant, it is all in on a championship but it will need the steady hand of VanVleet at the control of the offense. The Rockets also need him (and Durant) to stay healthy. VanVleet missed 22 games last season.

June 25, 2025

Can Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander make the squeak squeak squeak of Converse a force again on the court?

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - JUNE 22: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates with the Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player trophy with his new one-of-one pair of Converse signature basketball shoe, the SHAI 001 in "Trophy Gold" after defeating the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game Seven of the 2025 NBA Finals at Paycom Center on June 22, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates with the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player trophy and his new Converse signature basketball shoe, the SHAI 001, after defeating the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the Finals. (Matthew Stockman / Getty Images)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander puzzled people when he debuted his signature Converse shoe during All-Star weekend.

Converse? Where Chuck Taylor retros reside? Sure, Gilgeous-Alexander — known simply as SGA — was a rapidly improving player on a rapidly improving Oklahoma City Thunder team. But him as the face of a fading performance sneaker outfit didn't compute.

Fast forward to the NBA Finals. Moments after the Thunder's 103-91 Game 7 victory over the Indiana Pacers, SGA ascended the stage to accept his most valuable player trophy with a golden colorway of his signature shoe hanging from his neck.

Then on Tuesday, SGA doubled down, enjoying the championship parade with “Trophy Gold” Converse SHAI 001s on his feet.

Who would have thought Oklahoma City would become a flash point of foot fashion. And during Paris Fashion Week no less, when big brands from Nike and New Balance to Adidas and Asics introduce new product lines.

Nothing enhances marketing like winning, and SGA is the undisputed NBA victor of the season. He's the anointed MVP of the regular season as well as the Finals, leading the league in scoring and doing it all with an impish grin and requisite humility.

As creative director of Converse, the shoe fits.

“I’m able to essentially do whatever I want to do with the shoe. How it’s going to play out, the ball is really in my court,” SGA told Boardroom TV in December. “It’s something that I could imagine every athlete would want to ask for, to try and tell their story and show themselves to the world how they want to do it. To have complete control, it’s a blessing.”

But can SGA elevate Converse from the bargain rack? His SHAI 001s aren't grandpa's Chuck Taylor All-Stars, those classic shoes of timeless design consisting of a white toe cap over cotton canvas adorned with a distinctive All-Star logo.

They made a comeback last year when presidential candidate Kamala Harris wore them but Converse recorded year-over-year sales declines of 15% or more in each of the last three fiscal quarters.

Chuck Taylor was a semi-pro basketball player and traveling salesman for the Converse Rubber Shoe Company in the early 1920s when he designed the shoe. By the 1950s nearly everyone on a basketball court wore them, but they declined in popularity by the end of the 1970s before enjoying a comeback as nostalgic casual footwear.

A few years after going through bankruptcy, Converse was swallowed up by Nike in 2003 for $305 million. So, technically, SGA is just another massively paid shill for Nike, standing in line behind Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Tiger Woods, Selena Williams, Cristiano Ronaldo and Rory McIlroy.

But by aligning himself with an all-but-forgotten underdog of a brand, SGA has an opportunity to author a chapter in the signature shoe wars that could rival his already substantial accomplishments on the court.

There is one problem. The Shai 001 won't be available for sale until the fall. Converse can't capitalize on OKC and SGA fans wanting to rock the golden "butter" footwear of their new hero, and wanting them NOW.

A limited release, at least, did take place in downtown Oklahoma City for two hours Tuesday before the parade.

Aligning with a current player always involves an element of risk for a shoe company. Converse learned this firsthand in 1997 when it dropped Latrell Sprewell as an endorser and spokesman after the NBA star choked coach P.J. Carlesimo during a Golden State Warriors practice.

And the risk isn't always about misbehavior. Puma unveiled the Hali 1, its first shoe in collaboration with the Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton on the day this year's NBA Finals began. Haliburton tore an Achilles tendon in Game 7 and will miss most, if not all, of next season.

So Converse must continue to be quick on its feet to capitalize on its so far fortunate choice of SGA to represent the brand. He's only 26 and displays leadership and other qualities of a role model in addition to otherworldly hoop skills.

Can Converse become relevant again in the performance space? Can SGA become as linked to the brand as Chuck Taylor? First the shoes must hit the market. One step at a time.

"I wanted to create something new," SGA told Boardroom TV. "I wanted to bring Converse into my world and have Converse through my lens.”

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

June 25, 2025

Mark Walter, Jeanie Buss comment on Lakers sale expected to close later this year

Dodgers majority owner Mark Walter stands claps during the introduction of star Shohei Ohtani — Dodgers majority owner Mark Walter confirmed in a statement his holding company is buying a majority stake of the Lakers. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Dodgers controlling owner Mark Walter and Lakers president and controlling owner Jeanie Buss broke their silence Wednesday on a blockbuster deal that shocked many in and outside of Los Angeles.

A news release issued by Walter's team confirmed his acquisition of majority ownership stake of the Lakers, with the transaction expected to close in the third or fourth quarter of this year.

During the sale talks, the valuation of the Lakers was placed at $10 billion, a record for a professional sports team, people with knowledge of the deal not authorized to discuss it publicly told The Times. ESPN reported it is possible the value could swell to $12 billion before the transaction is complete.

Buss, whose family has had control of the Lakers for 46 years, will remain governor of the team and “continue to oversee all team operations on a day-to-day basis for the foreseeable future," the statement confirmed.

Walter and Todd Boehly — a partner in the Dodgers ownership group — became the Lakers’ largest minority shareholders in 2021 when they bought 27% of the franchise, a stake previously held by Phil Anschutz.

Jerry Buss, Jeanie Buss’ father, bought the team for $67.5 million in 1979 in a deal that included the Los Angeles Kings and the Forum in Inglewood. Buss sold the Kings to Bruce McNall in 1988.

“The Buss family is deeply honored to have looked after this incredible organization for almost half a century,” Jeanie Buss said in the statement. "From the day our father purchased the Lakers, we have been determined to deliver what the City of Los Angeles deserves and demands: a team that is committed to winning — relentlessly — and to doing so with passion and with style."

Buss said she felt confident Walter would lead the franchise to success. During his tenure, the Dodgers signed a collection of stars headlined by two-way wonder Shohei Ohtani. The team won the World Series last year, their second championship and fourth World Series appearance in the last eight seasons.

“I have gotten to know Mark very well over time and been delighted to learn how he shares those same values," Buss said. "For the last four years, Mark has been an excellent partner to us, and we are thrilled to keep working with him to continue the Lakers’ extraordinary legacy.”

Walter, the chairman and CEO of TWG Global, has ownership stakes in the Dodgers, the WNBA’s Sparks, the Billie Jean King Cup, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team and the Professional Women’s Hockey League.

He said the Lakers “have long been one of the most iconic franchises in sports.”

“Since Dr. Jerry Buss first purchased the team in 1979, they have truly set the standard for basketball in one era after another, which is why you can find people anywhere in the world wearing Lakers shirts and jerseys,” Walter said.

Control of the Lakers went into a family trust after Buss died in 2013, with daughter Jeanie Buss operating as the team’s governor. The structure of the trust meant the majority of Buss’ six children — Johnny, Jim, Jeanie, Janie, Joey and Jesse — had to agree to the deal for a sale to occur.

The structure of the family trust, according to people familiar with it, doesn’t allow for ownership to pass down to heirs after death, meaning the split among the siblings would go from being shared six ways down to five and so on.

“I admire what [Jerry Buss], Jeanie and the Buss family have built, and I know how much this special organization matters to Southern Californians and to sports fans everywhere," Walter said. "I also have tremendous respect for Jeanie’s continued commitment to maintaining the Lakers’ long-term vision and elite status, and I’m excited to work with her on the next era.”

Los Angeles Times owner Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong continues to hold a minority owner share of the Lakers.

The agreement for the sale of the Lakers came about three months after Bill Chisholm agreed to buy the Boston Celtics with an initial valuation of $6.1 billion — which was going to be a record, topping the previous mark of $6.05-billion sale for the NFL’s Washington Commanders.

The Lakers transaction was viewed as a massive surprise in NBA circles.

The Celtics’ sale is not yet finalized, pending final approval by the NBA’s board of governors.

The Lakers, led on the court by stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic, are preparing to start their 78th season later this year. The team has reached the postseason 65 times in franchise history, including 32 trips to the NBA Finals and 17 championships.

The Associated Press' Tim Reynolds contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

June 25, 2025

NBA Draft 2025: Contract Values for Cooper Flagg, Every First-Round Pick

The NBA Draft tips off Wednesday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., and there is zero doubt the Dallas Mavericks‘ first pick will be Duke’s Cooper Flagg.

Something else lacking doubt: the value of the contract Flagg will sign with the Mavericks. The 18-year-old power forward, who will be the youngest top pick since LeBron James in 2003, is set to earn $62.7 million over four years. Year 1 is worth $13.8 million.

More from Sportico.com

Rookie contracts for first-round picks are tied to the NBA salary cap, which is currently projected to be $154.6 million for the 2025-26 season, a 10% increase versus last season, with rookie deals up by the same percentage. French teen Zaccharie Risacher signed a four-year contract worth $57 million last year as the No. 1 pick.

The salary cap is based on projected basketball-related income (BRI). The cap figure is often tweaked just ahead of free agency opening, which is next week, as the league wraps up final accounting on the just-finished season.

Don’t expect any adjustments to the cap this year. BRI is set to soar next season, with the start of the league’s new 11-year, $77 billion media agreements with NBC, ESPN/ABC and Amazon. It will boost the annual payout to teams by 33% to $137 million in the first year, according to three NBA team executives. The payouts then jump 13.5%, followed by annual 7% increases.

The salary cap can only increase a maximum of 10% each season. The provision was new in the 2023 CBA to avoid one-time salary-cap spikes, such as the one that allowed the Golden State Warriors to sign Kevin Durant as a free agent in 2016.

You can probably pencil in 10% increases to the cap and rookie contracts through the end of the CBA after the 2029-30 season. It would mean a four-year, $92 million deal for the No. 1 pick in the 2029 NBA Draft.

Contract values drop steeply for picks lower in the first round. The Oklahoma City Thunder hold the 15th pick on Wednesday and are set to commit $22.5 million over four years to the selection. The Los Angeles Clippers have the final pick of the first round, which is slotted at $14.1 million.

The first two years of these first-round contracts are guaranteed with “protection for lack of skill and injury or illness,” per the NBA collective bargaining agreement. Teams hold options for years three and four, although typically only a handful of picks each draft class don’t have their options picked up. The 30 picks would earn a total of $787 million in playing salary over the next four seasons if all their options were exercised.

Teams must offer at least 80% of the “rookie scale contract” and can go as high as 120% of the rookie salary slot. In practice, almost every deal is completed at the maximum 120% of slot value, and these contract projections reflect that.

Second-round picks do not have any salary restrictions, but the players often sign deals for the league minimum or even two-way contracts with different salaries for the time spent in the developmental NBA G League versus the parent NBA team.

Last year’s second round included the selection of Bronny James as the 55th pick by the Los Angeles Lakers. He signed a rare deal for a second-rounder without two-way language for his time in the G League, where he played part of the season. The contract is worth $7.9 million over four years, with the first three seasons guaranteed.

The NBA system is similar to the NFL, where first-round picks sign four-year contracts tied to their draft slot. Cam Ward, whom the Tennessee Titans picked No. 1 overall, is set to earn $48.4 million, including a $32.2 million signing bonus. Bonuses soared 26% this year after being held down when the NFL “borrowed” money against future rookie compensation pools in 2021 to prevent a decline in deals following the 2020 COVID-19-induced revenue shortfall.

The NFL jump this year helped close the gap in contract values between the two leagues for first picks, which grew to 45% last year, but is now 28%. The NHL and MLB also have restrictions in place on salaries for draft picks.

Best of Sportico.com

June 25, 2025

2025 NBA Draft: 12 potential Knicks targets wtih No. 50 pick

The Knicks don’t have much ammunition in the 2025 NBA Draft - just the 50th overall pick they received from Memphis by way of Boston and then Oklahoma City. Their own second-round pick was forfeited for tampering in the signing of Jalen Brunson.

Still, in the NBA’s new space race for depth and cost-effective production under the apron rules, finding a diamond in the rough is massive, and New York will be doing their diligence to maximize this pick. Here are some possible targets to watch out for.

It’s worth noting these names are projected anywhere from late in the first round to going undrafted. However, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman reported he’d bet the Knicks move up to earlier in the second round, so they may have swings at more of these players than anticipated.

According to HoopsHype.com’s workout tracker, there are six publicly known prospects to have worked out for the Knicks thus far. They are Mohamed Diawara, Dylan Cardwell, Jonathan Pierre, Chucky Hepburn, NorchadOmier, and Clifford Omoruyi.

Diawara is a 6-foot-8 forward hailing from France who measures with a 7-foot-4 wingspan and 9-foot-2 standing reach. He’s 20 years old with solid attacking, ball handling and shooting out of the corners, with lots of defensive upside.

Cardwell is a massive 6-foot-11, 255-pound center who played five years at Auburn and can bring added depth to the interior. He’s a bouncy and capable defender, rebounder and finisher that could serve as another Jericho Sims-type flier.

Pierre is an older prospect, 22 years old by way of Belmont, a 6-foot-9 dynamic forward that can shoot and put the ball on the floor. His defense and connectivity are also pluses, but he looks to be more of an undrafted signing than a pick.

Hepburn is a four-year, 6-foot-2 guard who led Louisville to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. He’s a capable playmaker and scorer, and if his deep ball comes around could be a steal at the one spot.

Omier is a 6-foot-7 forward who doesn’t check the boxes you want from a build or athleticism standpoint, but brings high IQ play on both sides of the ball. He’s already active and aware defensively and has the touch to extend his range on offense, which gives him some upside.

Omoruyi is a gifted athlete at the center position, boasting strong measurements but stealing the show on the eye test. His skills are a bit raw, but getting to develop his way into a rotation spot may be worth a swing.

The Athletic’s James Edwards compiled a list of five potential targets: Koby Brea, Micah Peavy, Dink Pate, Jamir Watkins, and Kobe Sanders. Brea is a five-year college veteran coming off one year at Kentucky and can shoot the lights out from deep at 6’6”.

Peavy is heralded as one of the class’s top perimeter defenders with a growing offensive repertoire on the wing. Pate is another wing, lengthy with guard tools on the wing, but is on the rawer side and would likely be a long-term development project.

Watkins is an athletic swingman who can create and defend, with some questions around his jump shot keeping him in the Knicks' range. Sanders is crazy intriguing as a 6’9” point guard with defensive upside, if he somehow falls into New York’s lap.

ClutchPoints’ Kris Pursiainen also reported the Knicks have interest in Arkansas wing Adou Thiero. The 6-foot-8 wing is an athletic and defensive specimen in line with some of the other prospects they lined up.

Whatever the Knicks move, their lack of future picks and the heightened emphasis on depth and salary constraints across the league mean they can’t pass on another opportunity to take advantage of the Draft. Expect them to do so this year.

June 25, 2025

2025 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: Ace Bailey slides to Wizards, Spurs add Derik Queen

The NBA wasted no time in making moves that altered the landscape of the league. Even before the Thunder were crowned champions, Desmond Bane was shipped to Orlando, and Kevin Durant was traded to Houston. Jrue Holiday, Jordan Poole, Kristaps Porzingis, CJ McCollum, Anfernee Simons and Jalen Green have also found new homes this summer. Based on the last few days, this should be a wild offseason in the NBA.

Of course, with the draft mere hours away, there is still time for teams to deal their picks, but this is our final take on what the 59 picks in this draft will be.

First round

1. Dallas Mavericks

F Cooper Flagg, Duke

This pick has been made since the draft lottery in May. Dallas will be adding a generational talent in Flagg, and he’ll immediately make an impact on both ends of the floor for a playoff team. He’s an elite defensive prospect that was also a strong playmaker in college. With Kyrie Irving (knee) set to miss time early on next season, Flagg should have the ball in his hands a lot early and often, and based on what he did during his lone season in college, that can only mean good things for the Mavs. - Noah Rubin, Rotoworld

NCAA Basketball: Final Four National Semifinal-Houston at Duke

Cooper Flagg’s fit with the Dallas Mavericks, NBA comparisons, more

The Presumptive No. 1 pick would fit anywhere — he’s the kind of player teams build around, not worry about fitting in.

Kurt Helin,

2. San Antonio Spurs

G Dylan Harper, Rutgers

Like Flagg, Harper is considered to be on a separate tier compared to the other lottery-projected prospects in this class. With the Spurs likely needing to receive an offer they can't refuse to move this pick, the former Rutgers star should team up with the likes of Victor Wembanyama, De'Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, among others. While there are questions regarding the positional fit, Harper has the size needed to play on or off the ball in San Antonio. - Raphielle Johnson, Rotoworld

3. Philadelphia 76ers

G V.J. Edgecombe, Baylor

Whether it is Philadelphia or any other team making this selection — the 76ers have been listening to trade offers all week — Edgecombe will be the pick. He has become the clear No. 3 in this draft (in part because of Ace Bailey's predraft choices). Edgecombe is an elite athlete and uses that to be a fierce defender and projects as a strong cutter and finisher off the ball. However, what has impressed teams is how much his shot has improved from the start of the season through the combine (36.4 percent from 3 at Baylor). He's going to become a high-level starter wherever he lands. - Kurt Helin, NBC Sports

4. Charlotte Hornets

G Kon Knueppel, Duke

Knueppel would immediately fill out a young, fun starting five for Charlotte next to LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges and Mark Williams. Knueppel’s shooting will help a lot on one of the worst three-point shooting teams in the league last season. He should be an efficient starter for the Hornets for a long time while providing a sense of stability in the rotation, which has been an issue in recent years. By adding Knueppel, Charlotte will have enough talent to make a return to the postseason, assuming health is on their side. - Rubin

5. Utah Jazz

G Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma

The Jazz have used first-round picks on point guards in each of the last two drafts, selecting Keyonte George in 2023 and Isaiah Collier in 2024. Has either done enough to show they're capable of leading this team moving forward? Based on the numbers produced by both, with Collier replacing George in the starting lineup last season, the answer is probably "no." Fears may not be a "pure" point guard, but he's one of the most talented scorers in this draft class and has plenty of room for growth. Selecting him would cause a logjam in Utah, but Fears is worth the risk. - Johnson

6. Washington Wizards

F Ace Bailey, Rutgers

Bailey's predraft decision not to work out for any team, along with interviews at the Draft Combine that teams described as "immature" and "poorly prepared" has front offices concerned about his choices and representation — he could fall a lot further than sixth. On paper, Bailey checks all the boxes of a prototypical modern NBA wing: Great size, freak athlete, high motor, can create his own shot, can shoot the 3 (36.7% this season), and is a tough shot maker. However, he doesn't show much desire to apply that athleticism in defense, he doesn't have a great feel for the game or polish, and he had to be a tough shot maker because of his questionable shot selection. He's a project. Washington is a team that has demonstrated patience and has shown, in recent years, that it can develop players, so he's worth the risk. - Helin

7. New Orleans Pelicans

C Khaman Maluach, Duke

The Pelicans answered some questions on the perimeter by trading for Jordan Poole, which makes Maluach a logical pick. He can reach insane peaks if he is able to become a consistent perimeter option, but even if he doesn’t, he’s a high-level finisher that can swat shots and make an impact on the glass; the Pelicans were one of the worst defensive rebounding teams in the league last season. Maluach may not start immediately with 2024 first-round pick Yves Missi still there, but he has a brighter future than Missi. - Rubin

8. Brooklyn Nets

G Tre Johnson, Texas

The Nets, who now control five first-round picks thanks to the reported three-team deal with Boston and Atlanta, will significantly impact how the draft plays out. How many will lead executive Sean Marks hold onto? And will Brooklyn look to use the draft capital to go "big game hunting?" As for this pick, Johnson is one of the best scorers in this draft class, and he would be joining a Nets squad that finished this season ranked 28th in offensive rating and 29th in points per game. - Johnson

9. Toronto Raptors

F Noa Essengue, France, Ratiopharm Ulm

Essengue's play improved over the course of the season for Ratiopharm Ulm in Germany, which is a positive sign for the second-youngest player in the draft. His fluid athleticism and high motor mean Essengue could be the guy in a few years where everyone says, "How did he fall to nine?" He needs to add muscle and improve his shot, but the Raptors can be patient and bet on their development program. - Helin

10. Phoenix Suns

C Thomas Sorber, Georgetown

Center has been a weakness for the Suns since they traded away Deandre Ayton, and Sorber will help fill a need for them. He’s an undersized big, but he makes up for it with a 7’6” wingspan. He’s a solid playmaker at the center spot, and he should be an impactful defender. The Suns need to figure out how these pieces fit together, and Sorber will help them solve the puzzle. Phoenix was one of the worst defensive teams in the league last season, but the addition of Sorber, as well as getting Dillon Brooks in the Kevin Durant trade, should help them improve. - Rubin

11. Portland Trail Blazers

F Carter Bryant, Arizona

The Trail Blazers have already made one significant move, acquiring Jrue Holiday from the Celtics in exchange for Anfernee Simons and two second-round picks. While a bit raw offensively, Bryant has the size and athleticism required to be an impactful defender. Portland does have ample depth on the wings, but this would give them a little more time to develop Bryant instead of throwing him into the fire immediately. - Johnson

12. Chicago Bulls

F/C Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina

Murray-Boyles is the ultimate "if we can develop his shot" player in this draft. He's very efficient around the rim, but at 6'7" he's undersized to play the five in the NBA like he did at South Carolina, so he's going to have to develop a shot to be effective. Murray-Boyles can be a disruptive defender both in the paint and on the perimeter, he can pass the rock and knows how to score around the rim. However, to fully reach his potential, it all comes back to his shot. - Helin

13. Atlanta Hawks (via SAC)

G Cedric Coward, Washington State

The Hawks addressed the center position by trading for Porzingis, and you can’t have too many three-and-D wings around Trae Young. Coward boasts a 7’2” wingspan and should fill out a large role off the bench after Atlanta traded away Terance Mann and Georges Niang to bring in Porzingis. Coward only played six games at Washington State last season because of a shoulder injury, but he should be ready to contribute on both ends next season. - Rubin

14. San Antonio Spurs (via ATL)

C Derik Queen, Maryland

Queen has been a polarizing prospect during the pre-draft process, going from a player some viewed as a lottery lock to one who may last into the late teens on Wednesday. Will the Spurs hold onto this pick, or would they consider moving it? If not, adding depth in the frontcourt would not be the worst idea, as San Antonio finished this season with Bismack Biyombo as the starting center with Wembanyama sidelined due to a blood clot. While the rim protection needs improvement, Queen is an excellent rebounder with an evolving offensive skill set. - Johnson

15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via MIA)

PG/SG Egor Demin, BYU

Demin brings skills to the table: He is the best passer in this class, he has great positional size as a 6'8" point guard, he has an excellent feel for the game, and he was an underrated defender for BYU. However, he's going to have to score more, he looked to set up his teammates first for the Cougars but he has to improve his shot and be willing to use it — and to get downhill on drives — to fully unlock his potential. Oklahoma City is elite at unlocking talent and can afford to be patient with his development — he seems like their kind of player. - Helin

16. Memphis Grizzlies (via ORL)

G/F Nique Clifford, Colorado State

After trading away Desmond Bane, the Grizzlies will add one of the most NBA-ready prospects in this class with the 23-year-old wing. Clifford may not be viewed as a “high-upside” prospect, but he will be able to play quality minutes from day one for Memphis. He’ll be in the mix to start on the wing, but he should at least play a significant reserve role and make an impact on both ends of the floor, which will help make up for the loss of Bane. - Rubin

17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via DET)

C Joan Beringer, Cedevita Olimpija, France

While Naz Reid served as Rudy Gobert's primary backup this season, he isn't the best defender, regardless of who he's sharing the court with. Beringer may be raw offensively, but the above-the-rim athleticism and rim protection make him worthy of a look in Minnesota. While Reid is likely to opt out of the final season of his contract to become a free agent, Timberwolves coach Chris Finch said earlier this month that he expects the 2024 Sixth Man of the Year to return. If so, that would give the Timberwolves time to develop Beringer. - Johnson

18. Washington Wizards (via MEM)

G Kasparas Jakucionis, Illinois

The Wizards would be thrilled if Jakucionis fell this far down the draft (more likely he is gone in the lottery because he has some fans in front offices). A Lithuanian who came to Illinois via FC Barcelona, Jakucionis showed potential as a strong floor general who understands how to run an offense and is a creative passer. His shot was inconsistent, and his defense could make him a career backup point guard, but there is potential there, and the Wizards should be betting on it. - Helin

19. Brooklyn Nets (via MIL)

F Asa Newell, Georgia

Without many foundational pieces, the Nets can swing for the fences in this draft. Taking a high-upside player in Newell this late is certainly a swing. Once considered a lock for the lottery, Newell has the talent to be a phenomenal two-way player, though he certainly isn’t ready for that yet. In Brooklyn, he’ll get plenty of reps to develop over the next few seasons. He needs to improve as a deep-range shooter, but the touch is there. He has a high motor and should find ways to make an impact for the Nets even if the shot doesn’t come around immediately. - Rubin

20. Miami Heat (via GSW)

G/F Liam McNeeley, Connecticut

The Heat struck out in the Kevin Durant sweepstakes. Unless another superstar talent were to become available this summer, they're likely going to have to exercise some patience with their post-JimmyButler rebuild. While hampered for much of Big East play by an ankle injury, McNeeley is a very good shooter who can also serve as a playmaker at times. And he's coming from a winning program, which should aid in his assimilation in Miami. Ask Heat assistant Caron Butler, who also plied his trade at UConn before enjoying a lengthy NBA career. - Johnson

21. Utah Jazz (via MIN)

F Danny Wolf, Michigan

Utah may seem set with young centers, given that they already have Walker Kessler and Kyle Filipowski, but Wolf was the best player on the board and brings some valuable skills. He comes to Utah with NBA center size, a strong feel for the game, and a good hoops IQ — the Jazz can run some offense through him at the high post because of his strong passing skills. Wolf is not an explosive athlete but should have a role in the NBA. - Helin

22. Brooklyn Nets (via LAL)

C Maxime Raynaud, Stanford

The Nets already have a few centers with upside, but Raynaud may be more talented offensively than all of them. With five firsts in this draft, why not take a swing on every position? Raynaud is a 7’1” floor spacer that should be able to make an impact on offense from day one. He was a strong rebounder and shot blocker for Stanford last season, but most of his impact will be made on the offensive end. Brooklyn acquired this pick as part of the deal that sent Kristaps Porzingis to Atlanta. - Rubin

23. New Orleans Pelicans (via IND)

G/F Will Riley, Illinois

The Pelicans made a significant move on Tuesday, trading CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk and a future second-round pick to Washington in exchange for Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey and the 40th pick in the 2025 draft. The 23rd pick is one of two firsts the Pelicans hold in this draft; would new lead executive Joe Dumars consider moving it? If not, Riley would be a solid choice, especially for a team whose wings have struggled to stay healthy in recent years. He'll need to get stronger and improve his perimeter shot, but Riley has a solid basketball IQ and would fit in well in New Orleans. - Johnson

24. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC)

G/F Hugo Gonzalez, Real Madrid, Spain

Don't be surprised if the Thunder (or whoever drafts him) stashes Gonzalez with Real Madrid for another year. He has the feel of a Thunder player: Good size and feel for the game, high motor and shows real promise as a defender. His shot needs work, as he hit just 29 percent from 3-point range last season, but if he can develop it, he is a natural fit with the Thunder and their style of play. - Helin

25. Orlando Magic (via DEN)

G Jase Richardson, Michigan State

The Magic traded away the 16th pick to bring in Desmond Bane, but even though they already addressed the backcourt this summer, they’ll use this pick to do so once again. That’s mostly because of how good Richardson is and how well he’ll fit this team. Richardson is an undersized guard that can impact the games in a multitude of ways. He’ll be maximized in an off-ball role next to two high-level playmaking forwards in Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. - Rubin

26. Brooklyn Nets (via NYK)

G Walter Clayton Jr., Florida

Even if pending free agent D'Angelo Russell were to return to Brooklyn, the Nets still need to address the point guard position this summer. Unless a major move were to be made with some of the first-round picks they hold in this draft, Brooklyn is not in a position where it will be an immediate contender in the East. Adding a lead guard of the caliber of Clayton, who led Florida to the national title this season, would be a sensible move for a rebuilding franchise. - Johnson

27. Brooklyn Nets (via HOU)

G Nolan Traore, Saint-Quentin, France

He stood out at the Nike Hoops Summit a couple of years ago, but had a rough season playing in France last season and teams soured on him somewhat. He can create for himself and others, but he will have to be a more consistent scorer and shooter, reduce his turnovers, and defend better to truly establish himself in the NBA. However, he could be a solid backup point guard and is a good roll of the dice for the Nets. - Helin

28. Boston Celtics

F Rasheer Fleming, St. Joseph’s

Boston has already traded away Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, and they may not be done making moves. Clearly, their focus is on financial flexibility this season with Jayson Tatum expected to be sidelined most, if not all, of the season after tearing his Achilles in the playoffs. Fleming is two-way forward with a 7’5” wingspan that can shoot from deep. It shouldn’t be difficult to find a spot in the rotation for him this season and beyond. - Rubin

29. Phoenix Suns (via CLE)

C Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton

With the acquisition of the 10th overall pick via the Kevin Durant trade, the Suns will have control over two picks in the first round. They'll need to address the defense this summer, and for that reason, selecting Kalkbrenner would be an excellent idea. He was a four-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year and is one of the best rim protectors in this class. Phoenix needs depth and production in the frontcourt, and selecting Kalkbrenner would help address that issue. - Johnson

30. Los Angeles Clippers (via OKC)

F Noah Penda, Le Mans, France

Penda has fans in some front offices who see him as a sleeper, a 6'7" wing who can defend multiple positions and plays with a high motor, leading to a lot of blocks and steals. He has a high basketball IQ and is a quality passer. That said, he needs to develop a much more consistent shot, but there's potential there, and this is a good roll of the dice for the Clippers. - Helin

Second Round

31. Minnesota Timberwolves (via UTA): F Adou Thiero, Arkansas

32. Boston Celtics (via WAS): G Ben Saraf, Ratiopharm Ulm

33. Charlotte Hornets: G Drake Powell, North Carolina

34. Charlotte Hornets (via NOR): F Bogoljub Marković, KK Mega Basket (Serbia)

35. Philadelphia 76ers: G/F Jamir Watkins, Florida State

36. Brooklyn Nets: Hansen Yang, C, Qingdao, China

37. Detroit Pistons (via TOR): G Alijah Martin, Florida

38. San Antonio Spurs: G Chaz Lanier, Tennessee

39. Toronto Raptors (via POR): G Tyrese Proctor, Duke

40. New Orleans Pelicans (via PHX): C Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Penn State

41. Golden State Warriors (via MIA): F John Tonje, Wisconsin

42. Sacramento Kings (via CHI): G Kam Jones,Marquette

43. Utah Jazz (via DAL): G Javon Small, West Virginia

44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via ATL): F Alex Toohey, Sydney (Australia)

45. Chicago Bulls (via SAC): F Sion James, Duke

46. Orlando Magic: C Johni Broome, Auburn

47. Milwaukee Bucks (via DET): G/F Micah Peavy, Georgetown

48. Memphis Grizzlies (via GSW): Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane, Australia

49. Cleveland Cavaliers (via MIL): F Eric Dixon, Villanova

50. New York Knicks (via MEM): G/F Koby Brea, Kentucky

51. Los Angeles Clippers (via MIN): C Vladislav Goldin, Michigan

52. Phoenix Suns (via DEN): G Ryan Nembhard, Gonzaga

53. Utah Jazz (via LAC): F/C Lachlan Olbrich, Illawarra (Australia)

54. Indiana Pacers: G Hunter Sallis, Wake Forest

55. Los Angeles Lakers: C Amari Williams, Kentucky

56. Memphis Grizzlies (via HOU): G/F Dink Pate, Mexico City

57. Orlando Magic (via BOS): F Kobe Sanders, Nevada

58. Cleveland Cavaliers: G Wooga Poplar, Villanova

59. Houston Rockets (via OKC): C Viktor Lakhin, Clemson

June 25, 2025

Report: Kings expected to be ‘leading' Dennis Schroder suitor in NBA free agency

Report: Kings expected to be ‘leading' Dennis Schroder suitor in NBA free agency originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Kings appear to be targeting depth at the guard position this summer.

Sacramento reportedly is believed to be a likely leading suitor for veteran guard Dennis Schröder, NBA insider Marc Stein reported Tuesday.

The Kings are already being painted as a likely leading suitor for Dennis Schröder when free agency begins, @TheSteinLine has learned.
MUCH more on the Kings and MANY trade, free agency and draft matters in this new piece co-scribed with @JakeLFischer: https://t.co/niZqzRShhZ pic.twitter.com/XWls8MSNtK
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 25, 2025

Schröder, 31, is coming off a 2024-25 NBA season in which he averaged an admirable 13.1 points on 40.6-percent shooting and 5.4 assists per game while being traded from the Brooklyn Nets, where he started the season, to the Golden State Warriors and later to the Detroit Pistons.

The veteran could help Kings coach Doug Christie by providing everyday stability as the facilitator Sacramento seemingly lost when trading De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs in the multi-team deal that brought Zach LaVine to Northern California.

A career journeyman, Schröder has played for nine total teams, even after a stable five-year start to his career with the Atlanta Hawks (2013-2018); the Kings would be his 10th.

It is unknown whether a potential Schröder-Kings free-agent deal would be for the short term or long term. However, Schröder has publicly shared his disdain for the career-long instability he has experienced, as he vulnerably explained to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Dalton Johnson days before he was, yet again, traded.

“It’s like modern slavery,” Schröder told Johnson on Feb. 3. “It’s modern slavery at the end of the day. Everybody can decide where you’re going, even if you have a contract. Yeah, of course, we make a lot of money and we can feed our families, but at the end of the day if they say, ‘You’re not coming to work tomorrow, you’re going over there,’ they can decide that. They got to change that a little bit.

“But still grateful that we’re here and that we can live this every single day. I think everybody who’s in here is blessed. But if you really think about it, it is kind of crazy that the organization can tell you, ‘We want you to be team-first, but you’re going over there.’ It’s a lot.”

Schröder sure would have a place in Sacramento during the 2025-26 NBA season if he wanted it. But until then, Schröder will remain a free agent.

Download and follow The Deuce & Mo Podcast

June 25, 2025

Draymond Green reveals why his mom doesn't watch Warriors games anymore

Draymond Green reveals why his mom doesn't watch Warriors games anymore originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Draymond Green explained why his mother, Mary Babers, no longer watches his games.

The 35-year-old detailed why his mom cannot bring herself to watch the Warriors anymore.

“My mom doesn’t watch [my] games anymore,” Green said Tuesday on “The Pivot” podcast. “She’ll check the box score. It brings her anxiety [to watch my games] at this point in my career. Because she’s like, ‘Just be done, you did it. Just move on.’ And I’m like, ‘Nah, mom, I’ve got more to give.’ So, she can’t watch anymore.”

Green has been a lightning rod for controversy due to his physical style of play, which has landed him in hot water with the NBA on multiple occasions during his playing career. As one of the league’s elite defenders, it’s all just part of the job, but it’s difficult for his family to see him put himself into harm’s way on a nightly basis.

Green has no intention of hanging it up any time soon, though, as he and the rest of Golden State chase another NBA championship. The 35-year-old stayed out of trouble for the majority of the season and was named to the 2024-25 Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team.

Now, Green, Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler will look to build cohesion during the offseason as they prepare for another deep playoff run. Just don’t expect to see Babers watching the games.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

June 25, 2025

The First Year of the NBA Lottery Was Also the Greatest Draft Ever

In 1985, the NBA introduced a lottery system to decide the draft order of non-playoff teams—a revolutionary development with a legacy that still lingers on the lottery’s 40th anniversary.

Before 1985, the team picking first overall had been determined through a coin flip between the worst teams in each conference. Under the new drawing method, envelopes containing names of all the teams that missed the postseason the prior campaign were mixed up in a sphere before then-commissioner David Stern reached in, grabbed one and revealed it to the world.

More from Sportico.com

The New York Knicks were the first lottery winners, benefiting from a reach-and-grab that has been the subject of countless YouTube deep dives over the years. People have long speculated that the lottery was rigged for the big-market Knicks despite attempts from the NBA to shut down the rumors. Was New York’s envelope frozen, or its corner bent to help Stern identify it? Probably not, but the massive exhale taken by the former commish before doing his duty added fuel to the decades-old theories.

Conspiracies have remained a hallmark of the lottery ever since. That includes the evidence-deficient chatter this year after the Dallas Mavericks won the 2025 No. 1 pick—and the chance to take Duke phenom Cooper Flagg on Wednesday night—despite finishing with a record near .500. (The Utah Jazz—who held the worst record of the 2024-25 season at 17-65, a .207 winning percentage—will be picking fifth overall.)

The lottery has evolved over the years. Envelopes became ping-pong balls, and the NBA tilted the odds heavily in favor of the worst teams in 1993 before returning to more flattened odds in 2019 to disincentivize tanking, which contributed to Dallas winning the Flagg sweepstakes.

While the clearest through-line from the 1985 draft to 2025 draft is the lottery, the event 40 years ago has a lot more intrigue to offer.

For starters, the 1985 draft may well be the best of all time. The class as a whole produced 1,707 career win shares, a Basketball-Reference statistic which attempts to divvy up individual credit for team success. That’s about 10% more than the next-highest class, which amazingly was 1984, featuring some guy named Michael Jordan. (When fans revel in the nostalgia of the late ’80s and early ’90s, they actually have a point!)

The 1985 draft produced 10 All-Stars, tied for the most of any draft since the ABA/NBA merger in 1976. Four of those players became Hall of Famers—Patrick Ewing, Chris Mullin, Karl Malone and Joe Dumars. Technically, Lithuanian Hall of Fame center Arvydas Sabonis was selected with the No. 77 pick, but the selection was voided because Sabonis was not yet 21 at the time of the draft.

Even with Sabonis excluded, the 1985 draft was a banner year for international prospects, with Detlef Schrempf, Uwe Blab and Bill Wennington among the first-rounders selected. And that list doesn’t include No. 1 overall pick Ewing, who was born in Jamaica but moved to the U.S. at 13. A whopping eight foreign-born players were picked in the first 50 slots, a number that wouldn’t be topped for more than a decade. Last year, 17 of the first 50 picks were born outside the U.S.

Schrempf was the first European to ever be drafted in the top 10, and his successful career, which included an All-NBA nod in 1994-95 and an NBA Finals appearance in 1996, inspired teams to take more chances on overseas talent.

Canadian big man Wennington was drafted fresh off a Final Four appearance with St. John’s, one of three Big East teams to make the March Madness semifinals in 1985. That calendar year perhaps marked the absolute peak of the conference, as four Big East players were drafted in the top 10 for the first and only time ever.

In addition to the international talent wave, 1985 draftees foreshadowed other modern NBA trends. No. 5 overall pick John Koncak averaged just 4.7 points per game in 1988-89, but he nonetheless received a six-year, $13 million deal from the Atlanta Hawks that summer. Suddenly, big money wasn’t just for superstars. Or stars. Or starters. Known ever since as “Jon Contract,” the career backup was remarkably candid, and prescient, in an interview with Sports Illustrated at the time. “Hey, I can’t justify what they offered me,” Koncak said. “But what was I supposed to do? Say no? The league is changing. I think maybe this is just the start.”

Sporticowrote earlier this season about the latest phase of the league’s 3-point revolution—ball-dominant guards pulling up more often from beyond the arc. But Michael Adams was doing that before it was cool. The 5-foot-10, No. 66 overall pick in 1985 thrived under Denver Nuggets coach Doug Moe’s breakneck pace and led the NBA in 3-point attempts for four straight seasons, a feat nobody else achieved until Steph Curry.

A horde of other characters drafted 40 years ago deserve entire books written about them, but they will have to settle for just a sentence devoted to them here. No. 2 pick Wayman Tisdale averaged 22.3 points per game in 1990 for the Sacramento Kings and then went on to record eight music albums primarily as a bassist, including one that climbed to No. 1 on Billboard’s contemporary jazz chart, before his death in 2009. Sudan’s 7-foot-6 Manute Bol became the only player to ever retire with more blocked shots than points scored before becoming a political activist and humanitarian; Bol died in 2010.

There’s AC Green, best known for his iron man streak during which he played an NBA record 1,192 consecutive games—and only slightly less known for his claims of being a virgin throughout his career, until his marriage in 2002. Don’t sleep on Terry Porter, who made only two All-Star games with the Portland Trail Blazers, but whose stats portray a playoff-riser, efficient shooter and low-turnover distributor who ranks 73rd all-time in win shares. Seventh-rounder and No. 160 overall pick Mario Elie played overseas for five years before finally getting a chance in the NBA, where he won three titles and made one of the most clutch shots in league history—a game-winning trey in Game 7 of the 1995 Western Conference semifinals.

There was lots of talent to be mined in the later rounds of the 1985 draft. Spaniard Fernando Martin, selected at No. 38, played just one NBA season but was the second-leading scorer for his 1984 Olympic silver medal-winning team. Another member of the single-season club, No. 41 pick Lorenzo Charles, will forever be known for his buzzer-beating put-back dunk in the championship game of the 1983 NCAA tournament to lift Cinderella North Carolina State to victory over heavily favored Houston.

John “Hot Rod” Williams averaged double-digit points for nine consecutive seasons and boasted one of the league’s best nicknames—not bad for the No. 45 pick. Gerald Wilkins, chosen last in the second round, brought out the first prop in dunk contest history in 1986 when he jumped over a folding chair (“Isn’t that incredible!?” the announcer exclaimed with more enthusiasm than Spike Lee watching Mac McClung jump over a car 39 years later).

Speaking of dunk contests, the No. 87 overall pick, 5-foot-7 Spud Webb, won that 1986 event and carved out a role in the NBA over a 12-year career despite his stature. Today, players under 6 feet are nowhere to be seen (although the Grizzlies’ 5-foot-8 Yuki Kawamura is trying his darndest).

Remarkably, 1985 isn’t the only superlative draft class celebrating a significant anniversary this year. The worst cohort of all-time by that simple win shares metric is 2000. Maybe Kenyon Martin and Stromile Swift can get together and crack open a bottle of champagne.

Best of Sportico.com

June 25, 2025

Ranking the 10 best No. 1 draft picks in NBA history

Ranking the 10 best No. 1 draft picks in NBA history originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Some of the greatest careers in NBA history began with eight words:

“With the first pick in the NBA draft …”

In 78 years of the NBA draft, 20 players who were taken with the No. 1 pick are in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. An additional 32 players made either an All-Star Game or an All-NBA team.

Both of those numbers will grow in the coming years. Among the 15 active players who were No. 1 picks, two made the NBA 75th Anniversary team already and will be joined by some of their current counterparts in Springfield, Mass., someday. Others are just getting started in their pro careers.

If all 78 No. 1 picks were put into a new draft based on their NBA résumés, which one would be first off the board? Here’s a ranking of the 10 best top selections in league history.

10. Patrick Ewing, New York Knicks, 1985

Frozen envelope or not, Patrick Ewing was a tremendous pick for the New York Knicks.

The Georgetown center was far and away the top prize heading into the 1985 draft lottery before he eventually landed with the Knicks. Once in the Big Apple, Ewing kickstarted a Hall of Fame career by winning the 1985-86 NBA Rookie of the Year Award.

Over his 17-year career, Ewing amassed 11 All-Star, seven All-NBA and three NBA All-Defensive Team selections.

9. Elgin Baylor, Minneapolis Lakers, 1958

Elgin Baylor wasted little time building a Hall of Fame career after being drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers in 1958.

He averaged 24.9 points, 15.0 assists and 4.1 assists in his first NBA season, earning the 1958-59 Rookie of the Year Award. He was also named an All-Star, kicking off a stretch of 11 All-Star selections in his first 12 seasons. Over the same stretch, he was a 10-time All-NBA selection.

To this day, Baylor remains one of the top first picks in NBA history, as well as one of the best players to finish their playing careers without a championship.

8. David Robinson, San Antonio Spurs, 1987

Coming in at No. 8 is the Admiral.

David Robinson was one of two key No. 1 picks the San Antonio Spurs made to change the course of the franchise (we’ll get to the other one in a bit). After spending two years in the U.S. Navy, Robinson debuted for the Spurs in 1989 and won Rookie of the Year.

That was just the beginning of accolades for Robinson. The center earned 10 All-Star selections, 10 All-NBA selections, eight NBA All-Defensive Team selections, a Defensive Player of the Year Award, an MVP Award and a (controversial) scoring title to go along with two NBA championships.

7. Oscar Robertson, Cincinnati Royals, 1960

The Big O did it all.

In his first NBA season with the Cincinnati Royals, Oscar Robertson averaged 30.5 points, 10.1 rebounds and 9.7 assists per game. He upped the ante in Year 2 and made history, averaging a triple-double with 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds and 11.4 assists per game. He went on to average 30-plus points and 10-plus assists six times from 1961-62 to 1966-67.

With 12 All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA selections, an MVP, a scoring title, a Rookie of the Year Award and an NBA title on his career résumé, Robertson became one of the league’s first great point guards.

6. Hakeem Olajuwon, Houston Rockets, 1984

It’s one thing to be taken before Michael Jordan in the NBA draft. It’s another thing to look back on it and still consider it a worthwhile selection.

That’s something the Houston Rockets can be proud of. In 1984, they drafted Hakeem Olajuwon, then Akeem Olajuwon, out of the University of Houston and landed a franchise cornerstone. The team reached the Finals in the center’s second NBA season and won back-to-back titles in 1994 and 1995.

Olajuwon, unsurprisingly, played a major part in that. The Dream won Finals MVP for both championships, adding to a list of accomplishments that features 12 All-Star selections, 12 All-NBA selections, nine NBA All-Defensive Team selections, two NBA Defensive Player of the Year Awards and the 1993-94 MVP Award.

5. Shaquille O’Neal, Orlando Magic, 1992

Between his stature, personality, play style, accomplishments and nicknames, everything about Shaq was BIG.

After a monstrous career at LSU, Shaquille O’Neal was drafted first overall by the Orlando Magic in 1992. He won NBA Rookie of the Year after averaging 23.4 points and 13.9 boards per game and helped Orlando reach the NBA Finals in just his third season. He headed to Los Angeles in 1996 and proceeded to win three titles with the Lakers before earning a fourth with the Miami Heat in 2006.

In all, O’Neal was a 15-time All-Star, 14-time All-NBA selection, three-time All-Defensive Team selection, three-time Finals MVP and a two-time scoring champion across 19 NBA seasons.

4. Tim Duncan, San Antonio Spurs, 1997

“Draft Tim Duncan. After that, stay alive.”

That was the response from Gregg Popovich, the winningest coach in NBA history, when asked about his key to success. And he’s not wrong.

The Spurs had never won a championship until Duncan arrived. The organization proceeded to win the 1999 NBA Finals in Duncan’s second season and added four more throughout his 19-year career.

Along with the five titles, Duncan’s accolades include 15 All-Star selections, 15 All-NBA selections, 15 NBA All-Defensive Team selections (most in NBA history), two NBA MVPs, three NBA Finals MVPs and 1997-98 NBA Rookie of the Year.

3. Magic Johnson, Los Angeles Lakers, 1979

The selection of Magic Johnson in the 1979 draft led to the birth of the Showtime Lakers.

Johnson and Co. won five NBA titles from 1980 to 1988, beginning with his rookie season. In those 1980 Finals, the point guard famously took over as center in Game 6 against the Philadelphia 76ers and led the way with 42 points, 15 rebounds and seven assists.

Johnson’s career catalog includes 12 All-Star selections, 10 All-NBA selections, three MVPs, three Finals MVPs and four assist titles. His 11.2 assists per game remain the most in NBA history, continuing his legacy as one of the greatest offensive talents the game has ever seen.

2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Milwaukee Bucks, 1969

Despite coming in at No. 2 on this list, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is No. 1 in a number of prominent NBA categories.

The Bucks and Lakers center holds the record for most and NBA MVP Awards (six). Other accolades include 19 All-Star selections, 11 All-Defensive selections, six NBA titles, two Finals MVPs and the 1969-70 NBA Rookie of the Year Award.

Abdul-Jabbar was also the NBA’s all-time leading scorer … until …

1. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers, 2003

No. 1 is a just place for The King, both in the NBA draft and in this list.

LeBron James’ name is all across the league’s history books. He won championships with three different organizations: the Heat, Cavaliers and Lakers. When it comes to individual accolades, he is a 21-time All-Star, 21-time All-NBA selection, six-time All-Defensive Team selection, four-time NBA MVP, four-time NBA Finals MVP and 2003-04 NBA Rookie of the Year.

And he’s still going. James passed Abdul-Jabbar’s scoring record in his 20th NBA season and is still adding to his record in 2025.

One last thing worth mentioning with James is how he got to the NBA in the first place. He is the only player on this list who entered the NBA straight out of high school, heading to the Cavs when he was just 18 years old.

Honorable mentions: Elvin Hayes (1968), Bill Walton (1974), James Worthy (1982), Ralph Sampson (1983), Chris Webber (1993), Allen Iverson (1996), Yao Ming (2002), Dwight Howard (2004), Kyrie Irving (2011), Anthony Davis (2012)

June 25, 2025

Warriors' Draymond Green details ‘therapeutic' process of writing his book

Warriors' Draymond Green details ‘therapeutic' process of writing his book originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Draymond Green revealed off-the-court news directly related to his NBA career on Tuesday.

The 14-year Warriors veteran announced that he is enjoying the process of writing a book in a conversation with Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder, and Fred Taylor on “The Pivot” podcast.

“I don’t even know if I’m supposed to say this, but I’m writing a book,” Green told Clark, Crowder and Taylor. “And that process is so therapeutic for me, because it’s actually where I worked my way through, like, ‘Oh, sh–, it is two different people.’”

Dub Nation, get ready to meet author Draymond Green.

The four-time NBA champion is excited about his literary endeavors because of the opportunity to highlight the differences in his personality on and off the court. Green understands – and seemingly embraces – his on-court disposition, but believes who he is away from basketball couldn’t be more unproblematic.

“Like, they probably think I’m crazy as hell,” Green said of basketball fans to Clark, Crowder and Taylor. “But [I am] two different people; on the court, I’m a menace. But off the court, I think I’m arguably one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

“On the court, I’m a menace. [I’m] two completely different people.”

Green undoubtedly is a menace on the hardwood. The 35-year-old has collected 163 technical fouls, 18 flagrant fouls and 20 ejections throughout his 13 regular seasons, and Green also has been involved in some of the game’s most iconic altercations, for better or worse.

But the Warriors forward claims to be quiet in his personal life.

Green told Clark, Crowder and Taylor that he doesn’t speak nearly as much off the court as on it, and that perspective will be detailed in his book.

There aren’t any more details on Green’s book outside of what he said Tuesday. It will be interesting to see what the Golden State legend shares in print when the time comes.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

June 25, 2025

Why Alperen Sengun gained Draymond Green's respect after Warriors-Rockets series

Why Alperen Sengun gained Draymond Green's respect after Warriors-Rockets series originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Draymond Green gained a newfound level of respect for Houston Rockets center Alperen Şengün after a ferocious NBA first-round playoff series.

Green and Şengün tussled on a nightly basis as the Warriors held off the Rockets in a classic seven-game series that featured a decidedly old-school brand of bruising basketball.

“I gained so much respect for that young fella [Şengün] because in the beginning, he was folding and he caught up and he stood up,” Green said Tuesday on “The Pivot” podcast. “And once you stand up, we’re going to go at it, but I like that. And I gained respect for him.”

The 22-year-old gave Green all he could handle during the series, which saw Houston’s young and up-and-coming squad narrowly lose to Golden State. Şengün’s elite play at the rim was one of the reasons the Rockets almost won the matchup, as he gave Green headaches throughout the chippy series.

Şengün has steadily progressed ever since Houston selected him with the No. 16 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, and he made his first All-Star Team this past season.

With the Rockets reportedly acquiring Kevin Durant in a trade, Houston will be an even more dangerous postseason foe next year. If they do face off against Golden State again, expect another physical matchup between Şengün and Green.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

June 25, 2025

Report: Heat have legitimate interest in restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga

Report: Heat have legitimate interest in restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

There are a handful of NBA teams that could have serious interest in Warriors’ restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga this summer.

One of the potential suitors ahead of the June 30 free-agent negotiating window just so happens to be a team Golden State recently did business with.

The Miami Heat, after missing out on superstar forward Kevin Durant, who the Phoenix Suns reportedly agreed to trade to the Houston Rockets over the weekend, have “legitimate” interest in Kuminga, The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reported in his latest story, citing league sources.

Miami is an interesting potential Kuminga suitor due to the familiarity the Warriors have with the Heat after facilitating a blockbuster trade for Jimmy Butler before the NBA’s Feb. 6 trade deadline.

As a restricted free agent, Kuminga only can sign offer sheets with other teams, which the Warriors can match and, in turn, retain the 22-year-old for the same contract. Warriors CEO Joe Lacob recently stated that it would “take a lot” for Golden State not to match a Kuminga offer sheet.

Golden State also could move Kuminga in a sign-and-trade deal for other assets, which is an avenue that the young forward is actively exploring as he prepares to test the market.

“I trust my people, trust my agent (Aaron Turner),” Kuminga told Slater. “I want to know more about how this trade stuff goes, how this sign-and-trade goes or how this contract goes. I want to learn more about it. But most of the time I just focus on playing, just working. The better I get, wherever I get my chance, it’s going to show.”

It remains to be seen which direction the Warriors will go in with Kuminga, but with Golden State general manager Mike Dunleavy stating Monday that he wants to have a resolution with the restricted free agent “sooner than later,” it appears Kuminga’s future could be decided soon.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

June 25, 2025

Lakers, Clippers likely aiming for 'best available' in NBA draft

MONACO - 2024/11/17: Monaco player #4 Jaron Blossomgame and Le Mans player #93 Noah Penda are seen in action during Betclic Elite french championship between AS Monaco and Le Mans in salle Gaston Medecin in Monaco. final score: AS Monaco 74 - 86 Le Mans. (Photo by Laurent Coust/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) — Noah Penda (93), playing for LeMans against Monaco's Jarod Blossomgame during a playoff game in France, has been projected by multiple forecasters to be who the Clippers select with the 30th overall pick on Wednesday. (SOPA Images / LightRocket via Getty Images)

The most pressing need the Lakers have is finding a rim-running, shot-blocking young center to put alongside Luka Doncic for the present and future.

But the Lakers don’t have a first-round pick to use in Wednesday night’s NBA draft, and when they do make their choice in the second round at No. 55 on Thursday night in the two-day event, that’s probably not where they are going to find that sort of talent.

So, the Lakers will look for the proverbial “best player available” and look to develop him and most likely have him play for the South Bay Lakers, their G League team.

The big news for the Lakers will be the contract status of Doncic, LeBron James, Austin Reaves and Dorian Finney-Smith.

The Clippers, on the other hand, have the last pick in the first round of the draft, at No. 30. They also have the 51st overall pick in the second round.

And they too will be looking for the best player available with those selections.

With the unlikelihood of the draft providing them a rotation player, the Lakers will continue to build their team in other ways, from free agency to trades.

James, 40, has a player option for next season at $52.6 million and he has to let the Lakers know of his decision by June 29. He can opt-in to his deal with an extension or opt-out and sign a new contract.

James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists and shot 51.3% from the field per game last season, and he was named to the All-NBA second team.

Doncic can sign an extension with the Lakers starting on Aug. 2. He will earn $45.9 million next season and $48.9 million for the 2026-27 season if he exercises his option.

He can sign a four-year extension for $229 million, with the $51-million first-year of that deal replacing his player option from 2026-27. Or Doncic could sign a three-year extension for $165 million, and that would include a player option for the third season.

Reaves is eligible to sign an extension off his $13.9-million salary for next season starting July 6. Reaves can sign a four-year deal for $89.2 million.

Finney-Smith has a player option that will pay him $15.3 million, and he too is looking for an extension.

Lawrence Frank, the president of basketball operations for the Clippers, talked in May about the team’s needs in the draft.

Frank said the Clippers could use some frontcourt help, a playmaker and some shooting.

Several NBA mock drafts have the Clippers taking Noah Penda at No. 30. He’s a 6-foot-8 forward from France. Penda, 20, played last season at Le Mans, where he averaged 10.9 points and 6.1 rebounds.

“In the draft, typically you’re always going for the best available, especially if it’s a younger player,” Frank told the media in May after the team had been eliminated from the first round of the playoffs by the Denver Nuggets. “Because by the time that player hits his prime, our team will be completely different. … So, you are drafting best available, but we have certain characteristics that we really prioritize.

“Positional size is important to us. Basketball IQ and processing is important to us. The ability to pass, dribble and shoot is important to us. And then the DNA, the makeup, the toughness, the competitiveness, examples of where they are really shown resiliency, grit. So, there’s a lot of things into it, but those typically are kind of in general of how we look at it.”

Clippers veterans James Harden, Nicolas Batum and Norman Powell also have contract decisions to make.

Harden has a player option for $36.3 million and he has to inform the Clippers of his decision by June 29. The consensus around the NBA is that Harden will opt out and seek a two-year extension from the Clippers.

Harden, 35, who averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists and 5.8 rebounds, made the All-Star team and was All-NBA third team.

Batum, a favorite of his teammates and Clippers coach Tyronn Lue, has a player option for next season that pays him $4.9 million and he has to let the team know by June 29 of his decision.

Powell, 32, has one more year on his deal that pays him $20.4 million next season. Powell, who averaged a career-high 21.8 points per game, also is likely looking for an extension.

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

June 25, 2025

Warriors' Jonathan Kuminga outlines priority ahead of restricted NBA free agency

Warriors' Jonathan Kuminga outlines priority ahead of restricted NBA free agency originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Ever since he entered the NBA as the No. 7 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Jonathan Kuminga has wanted to become a star.

And this summer, as a restricted free agent, he has an opportunity to put himself in the best position to do just that.

Kuminga spoke exclusively with The Athletic’s Anthony Slater ahead of the NBA’s June 30 restricted free agent negotiation window, and discussed his goal of developing into a star player capable of leading an offense.

“That’s what’s been on my mind,” Kuminga told Slater. “Things take time, but I feel like I’m at the point where that has to be my priority, to just be one of the guys a team relies on. Aiming to be an All-Star. Multiple times. Aiming to be great. … Wherever I’m going to be at, it don’t matter if it’s the Warriors or if it’s anywhere else, it’s something I want. I want to see what I could do. I know I got it. So I want to really see. I’ve never got that chance.”

The 22-year-old Kuminga has had a roller-coaster career with the Warriors, showing flashes of immense potential, but struggling to maintain a consistent role in coach Steve Kerr’s rotations.

Those inconsistencies in four seasons with Golden State will play a role in deciding what situation is best for him this summer.

“I did it here and there, but it was never a consistent role, a consistent role given to me,” Kuminga said. “It only happens five games on, 10 games off. I want it to be a consistent role. Because I know what I got. I know what I could bring. I know how much work I put in. I know I’m dedicated to this game, how much I love the game.”

Kuminga averaged 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game during the 2023-24 NBA season, and appeared to be developing into the star player the Warriors hoped he could become this past season before an ankle injury sidelined him for 31 games.

In 47 games (10 starts) during the 2024-25 season, Kuminga averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game on 45.4-percent shooting from the field and a career-low 30.5 percent from 3-point range.

He once again was in and out of the Warriors’ rotations down the stretch and throughout Golden State’s playoff run, but did impress in the Western Conference semifinals series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he reprised his feature role after Warriors superstar Steph Curry went down for the remainder of the series after suffering a hamstring strain in Game 1.

Kuminga, as a restricted free agent, can sign offer sheets with other NBA teams, which the Warriors can match and retain him for the same price. Whichever team ultimately ends up paying him, he hopes to prove his worth immediately.

“Wherever I go, wherever I’ll be, off the rip, I just want them to be like, ‘Oh, yeah, he deserved what he got. He deserved to be here. He worked hard for it.’ Wherever it is, that’s what I want it to feel like.” Kuminga added. “I want to be great. I feel like I’m capable of being that, capable of doing some special things, and I won’t just let it go like that. The only way to get there is just to lock in every single day.”

Might that be with the Warriors?

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast