Category: Basketball

PORTLAND, OR – Not long after losing a double overtime thriller to Alabama on Feb. 18, the battle between Arkansas coach John Calipari and Darius Acuff Jr. began.

Acuff, the Razorbacks star freshman guard, scored 49 points against the Crimson Tide, all while dealing with an ankle injury that required him to wear a boot when he wasn’t playing. Given the performance he had in 50 minutes of action, Calipari suggested sitting out the next game against Missouri.

That didn’t sit well with Acuff.

“We lost, I'm not sitting out,” he told his coach.

Bold predictions: March Madness top upset picks, surprises, sleepers

More: March Madness a stage for 3-way race for NBA draft's No. 1 pick

Thus began the weeklong contest between a coach desperate to get his leading scorer off his legs and a player adamant on not missing anything. 

The tug-of-war finally swayed in Calipari’s favor on the final week of the regular season, getting Acuff to sit out the finale against Missouri. Even then, “we had to go back and forth,” Calipari said.

While Acuff didn't want to miss a thing, Calipari was thinking of the big picture. Arkansas had the SEC tournament coming up and March Madness right after. Of course you want your star 100% for that.

So, Calipari took a page from the pros.

“I took a chance. We did the NBA load management,” he said.

A chance well-taken.

It’s a wonder what a little rest can do. Acuff healed up, and showcased what he can do at full strength with an SEC tournament performance for the ages. In three games, he averaged 30.3 points and 7.6 assists, running hog wild to get Arkansas’ first conference tournament title since 2000.

“We needed him in the SEC tournament run to be that guy,” Calipari said. “So I'm glad I did it.”

Acuff has been exceptional all season for the Razorbacks. You don’t get named SEC freshman of the year for nothing, especially averaging 22.2 points and 6.4 assists per game.

There have been little snippets of load management trickling its way to the college level, notably with Kansas guard Darryn Peterson and Connecticut women's star Sarah Strong.

Acuff's run in Nashville showed how it can work, showcasing a clutch gene that is so rare to find at this level. Not only is he another recognizable freshman, but he may just be the best player in the whole sport.

He certainly has the attention of Arkansas' first round opponent Hawai’i, who now have the difficult task of trying to stop a guy that is scorching. Rainbow Warriors guard Dre Bullock said the team isn’t scared of anybody and “everybody's excited to guard” Acuff, but “it's a great challenge for us.”

In the preparations, Arkansas’ opponent can’t help but marvel at the play.

“Not too often, a lot of times you see these point-of-attack guys that score 20-plus points a game. Maybe the play making isn't there or the shooting isn't there. This is a guy scoring 20, 25 a game. Obviously he had some big games, playing a lot of minutes as a freshman at the most important position,” said Hawai’i coach Eran Ganot. “The way he does it with six, seven assists a game efficiently. The way he shoots it, gets guys involved. Makes big plays.

“How can you not respect him from afar?” he added.

Acuff is the exact player Calipari has needed to get his March Madness mojo back. After the surprise run to the Sweet 16 in his first season with the Hogs got him to the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2019, he is trying to break his 11-year Final Four drought.

Even better, Acuff will enter the NCAA Tournament not having worn a boot "for a while," according to his coach.

When those close games reach the final minutes, or “winning time,” as Acuff calls it, he becomes the most dangerous man on the court, on a warpath to victory.

“Whatever I need to do to get our team to win, whether it's me passing or me shooting or getting a stop, I'm going to do it,” he said.

A hot run sparked by a tussle between Calipari and Acuff. In this battle, the point goes to coach.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How John Calipari prepared Darius Acuff Jr for March Madness

BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) — Aston Villa stands a good chance of advancing to the quarterfinals of a European competition for the third straight year.

The Premier League side needs to protect a 1-0 advantage from Lille in the return leg of the Europa League round of 16 on Thursday at Villa Park.

Coach Unai Emery was cautious. "It's very important this result but it’s not enough,” he said.

Two years ago, Villa and Lille met in the Conference League quarterfinals and Emery’s side advanced on penalties. Last season, Villa was eliminated in the Champions League quarterfinals by eventual winner Paris Saint-Germain.

Another English club, Nottingham Forest, faces a tougher task in Denmark after a 1-0 home defeat to Midtjylland last week.

Boss Vítor Pereira is expected to rest some of his stars ahead of a Premier League game against Tottenham, with both clubs placed just above the relegation zone.

An all-Italian derby between Roma and Bologna is all square at 1-1 ahead of the second leg in Rome.

Lyon, the winner of the league phase, faces Celta Vigo after a 1-1 draw. Porto has to defend a 2-1 advantage against Stuttgart.

Another Bundesliga side, Freiburg, trails host Genk 1-0 and Real Betis is a goal down against visiting Panathinaikos.

___

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

The day has arrived, college hoops fans. The Thursday that marks the first full slate of games in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament is like unto a national holiday for many. If that means you, we’re here to enjoy the madness with you.

This is your viewers’ guide to the 16 games on the docket, including channel information and scheduled tip times. Keep in mind, of course, that the second game at a venue in a particular window might – and probably will – start a few minutes later than the time listed due to spillover from the prior contest, but that will become apparent as results unfold.

REGION BREAKDOWNS, PREDICTIONS: East | South | Midwest | West

PRINTABLE BRACKET: Fill out your picks for NCAA Tournament pools

1. No. 6 North Carolina vs. No. 11 VCU

Time/TV: 6:50 p.m. ET, TNT

The Cinderella Final Four run by the Rams in 2011 makes them a popular upset pick, though they haven’t advanced beyond the first round in their last five tournament appearances. Nevertheless, the short-handed Tar Heels have a considerably lower ceiling without leading scorer Caleb Wilson and must hope Henri Veesaar can dominate the paint against VCU’s smaller lineup.

2. No. 6 Louisville vs. No. 11 South Florida

Time/TV: 1:30 p.m. ET, TNT

This was already going to be a tough draw for the Cardinals, and the absence of standout freshman Mikel Brown due to ongoing back issues makes the assignment that much more difficult. The Bulls - a trendy upset pick - are among the hottest teams in the field entering on an 11-game winning streak paced by the inside-outside tandem of Izaiyah Nelson and Wes Enis.

3. No. 3 Georgia vs. No. 9 Saint Louis

Time/TV: 9 :45 p.m. ET, CBS

It’s the last game of the session, but these two teams that both like to run and gun should keep the energy level high. While Robbie Avila has the name recognition, six of his Billikens’ teammates also average over nine points a game and could match the Bulldogs’ depth.

4. No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 9 TCU

Time/TV: 12:15 p.m. ET, CBS

The round of 64 begins with what should be a close affair between power conference members. The Buckeyes finished the season strong thanks in large part to the efforts of long-time mainstay guard Bruce Thornton, while the Horned Frogs are led by the front-court duo of David Punch and Xavier Edmonds.

5. No. 6 Brigham Young vs. No. 11 Texas

Time/TV: 7:25 p.m. ET, TBS

The well-traveled Tramon Mark showed he still has the clutch gene in the Longhorns’ nail-biting First Four win in Dayton. It will now be up to Matas Vokietaitis and the big Texas front line to keep A.J. Dybantsa, BYU’s one-man wrecking crew, from taking over.

6. No. 7 Saint Mary’s vs. No. 10 Texas A&M

Time/TV: 7:35 p.m. ET, truTV

In addition to the deliberate pace and hard-nosed defense that have defined the Gaels’ program under long-time mentor Randy Bennett, this year’s squad actually has more long-range shooting options in Mikey Lewis and Joshua Dent. Even so, their style contrasts with "‘Buckyball," the frenetic approach preached by Aggies coach Bucky McMillan that has this season’s team putting up 87.3 points a game.

7. No. 5 Wisconsin vs. No. 12 High Point

Time/TV: 1:50 p.m. ET, TBS

Expect a breakneck tempo in this one; the Panthers put up 90 points a game while the Badgers aren’t far behind at 83. High Point floor leader Rob Martin and prolific forward Terry Anderson will try to keep up with Wisconsin’s high-volume guard duo of Nick Boyd and John Blackwell.

8. No. 5 Vanderbilt vs. No. 12 McNeese State

Time/TV: 3:15 p.m. ET, truTV

Vanderbilt’s run to the SEC title game that included an upset of Florida didn’t produce much of a seed boost. As such, the Commodores get a fairly tough opening draw with the battle-tested Cowboys, dancing for a third consecutive season as first-year coach Bill Armstrong maintained the program’s momentum.

9. No. 4 Nebraska vs. No. 13 Troy

Time/TV: 12:40 p.m. ET, truTV

One of these programs will win its first ever NCAA tourney game. The Cornhuskers, which are the only Power Four team never to accomplish the feat, are led by sharpshooter Pryce Sandfort, They will be favored, but they shouldn’t overlook the Trojans making their second consecutive trip to the Big Dance led by double-double candidate Thomas Dowd.

10. No. 4 Arkansas vs. No. 13 Hawaii

Time/TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, TBS

Darius Acuff and the Razorbacks got a short turnaround and a long flight to Portland as a reward for winning the SEC tournament. The Rainbow Warriors feature seven-footer Isaac Johnson, who is familiar with the NCAA tournament stage from his two seasons at Utah State.

11. No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 14 Penn

Time/TV: 9:25 p.m. ET, TNT

It took just a year for Fran McCaffery to take his alma mater back to the Big Dance, riding the incredibly hot hand of T.J. Power. The fact that the Quakers won both Ivy League tourney games in overtime might be of concern to Fighting Illini fans, as their team hasn’t fared so well in extra periods of late, so Illinois will do its utmost to build a double-digit cushion as quickly as possible.

12. No. 3 Michigan State vs. No. 14 North Dakota State

Time/TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, TNT

The Spartans and Tom Izzo have been in every NCAA Tournament since 1998, and though they occasionally bow out prematurely they’ll have a considerable depth advantage in this year’s opener. The Bison do, however, have several guys capable of heating up from long range, including Damari Wheeler-Thomas and Trevian Carson.

13. No. 3 Gonzaga vs. No. 14 Kennesaw State

Time/TV: 10:00 p.m. ET, TBS

This is the second Big Dance for the Owls and the first representing Conference USA, though KSU is not without hoops history having claimed the Division II title in 2004. Nonetheless, they’ll be punching above their weight considerably against Graham Ike and the Zags, now a tournament fixture but still seeking the ultimate prize.

14. No. 2 Houston vs. No. 15 Idaho

Time/TV: 10:10 p.m. ET, truTV

The day concludes with a moment in the sun for the Vandals, the unlikely Big Sky champs making their first tournament appearance since 1990. Their stay figures to be short, as the Cougars have the pieces in place to return to Championship Monday and finish the job this time.

15. No. 1 Michigan vs. No. 16 Howard

Time/TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, CBS

The Bison’s first ever NCAA tourney win Tuesday night in Dayton provided a well-deserved spotlight for Bryce Harris and Ose Okojie. The run almost certainly ends here, however, as those second-chance opportunities will not be there against the Wolverines’ rim protectors.

16. No. 1 Duke vs. No. 16 Siena

Time/TV: 2:50 p.m. ET, CBS

The Blue Devils will look to make short work of this one as they’ll still be down a couple of starters. Despite being coached by former Syracuse marksman Jerry McNamara, the Saints don’t shoot three-pointers particularly well (30.4%), making a first-round stunner unlikely.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: March Madness games today: NCAA Tournament first-round games ranked

Houston finished up their season series versus the Los Angeles Lakers late Wednesday. If you did not watch this game, congratulations, you, unlike me, did not get let down by this team as they once again get outclassed by a superstar late in the fourth.

To start the game, Houston used inside scoring (an early dunk and a free throw) to score first, and then Luka Dončić responded swiftly with playmaking and mid-range goals. The Lakers were led by LeBron James, and continued to score easily. Houston struggled to keep up with the Lakers as they made a few early mistakes on the defensive and offensive ends, as the Lakers shot 60% for the quarter.

After a poor start, the Houston Rockets responded with more vigor and physicality in the second quarter, demonstrating a noticeable improvement. Houston started to close the gap because of Jabari Smith Jr.’s scoring touch and Amen Thompson’s aggressive rim-attacking style. The Rockets were successful on the glass, especially when it came to offensive rebounds that helped change momentum and produced worthwhile second-chance opportunities. But with the solid play of LeBron James, who continued to score effectively inside, and Luka Dončić, who led the offense, the Los Angeles Lakers were able to maintain control. The Lakers maintained their lead going into halftime by finishing the half strong with timely scoring, including a crucial basket by Austin Reaves, just as Houston tried to reduce the lead.

The Rockets reversed the trend in the third quarter, which was a pivotal moment. Houston tightened up their defense, making it harder for the Lakers to make easy jumpers in the half-court. The Rockets’ offensive strategy was balanced and fast-paced, with contributions from every position in the lineup supporting a significant run. They were able to erase the deficit and momentarily seize control thanks to their vigor on both ends, making the game a fiercely contested affair going into the final session. Houston even outscored the Lakers in the third, giving me the worst thing of all… hope.

The game ended in a back-and-forth fashion in the fourth quarter. While the Lakers relied on their stars to create in crucial situations, the Rockets continued to rely on their depth and physical play. In the end, Los Angeles’ execution and shot-making in the closing minutes proved to be the difference, as they were able to thwart Houston’s effort at a comeback thanks to key baskets and poise in dire circumstances.

Houston improved significantly from the game on Monday in a number of areas. Kevin Durant deserves praise for making an offensive statement, especially with a powerful third-quarter push that sparked the Rockets’ comeback attempt. Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson, who consistently scored goals and exerted energy throughout the game, should also be acknowledged for their output and overall influence. Houston never completely fell apart, but they also never succeeded in seizing control, so the frustration still exists. Rather, they played from behind all night, unable to turn the tide when it counted most. In the end, it felt like the Rockets were simply outmatched down the stretch, with no answer for Luka Dončić, who dictated the game when it counted.

Rockets will be back in action versus the red-hot Atlanta Hawks at Toyota center Friday with a 7:00 tip-off. As always, make sure to check back here at TheDreamShake for pre- and post-game coverage.

Make sure the iPad is charged and go get that extra TV from the storage closet.

The first two days of the NCAA Tournament are like Christmas in March. And Thursday kicks off, in earnest, 2026 March Madness with first round play.

Thursday's schedule is below with TV info, including announcer assignments. Get your coffee ready.

Think you can beat our expert? Join USA TODAY’s Bracket Challenge today!

Ready to win March Madness? Join USA TODAY’s Survivor Pool today!

March Madness first round schedule today, TV listings

• 12:15 p.m.: No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 9 TCU, CBS (Fubo)
• 12:40 p.m.: No. 4 Nebraska vs. No. 13 Troy, truTV (Sling TV)
• 1:30 p.m.: No. 6 Louisville vs. No. 11 South Florida, TNT (Sling TV)
• 1:50 p.m.: No. 5 Wisconsin vs. No. 12 High Point, TBS (Sling TV)
• 2:50 p.m.: No. 1 Duke vs. No. 16 Siena, CBS (Fubo)
• 3:15 p.m.: No. 5 Vanderbilt vs. No. 12 McNeese, truTV (Sling TV)
• 4:05 p.m.: No. 3 Michigan State vs. No. 14 North Dakota State, TNT (Sling TV)
• 4:25 p.m.: No. 4 Arkansas vs. No. 13 Hawai'i, TBS (Sling TV)
• 6:50 p.m.: No. 6 North Carolina vs. No. 11 VCU, TNT (Sling TV)
• 7:10 p.m.: No. 1 Michigan vs. No. 16 Howard, CBS (Fubo)
• 7:25 p.m.: No. 6 BYU vs. No. 11 Texas, TBS (Sling TV)
• 7:35 p.m.: No. 7 Saint Mary's vs. No. 10 Texas A&M, truTV (Sling TV)
• 9:25 p.m.: No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 14 Penn, TNT (Sling TV)
• 9:45 p.m.: No. 8 Georgia vs. No. 9 Saint Louis, CBS (Fubo)
• 10 p.m.: No. 3 Gonzaga vs. No. 14 Kennesaw State, TBS (Sling TV)
• 10:10 p.m.: No. 2) Houston vs. No. 15 Idaho, truTV (Sling TV)

March Madness TV announcers game assignments

Here's a look at which games each TV broadcast crew pairing will call in the First Four and first round:

Ian Eagle, Bill Raftery, Grant Hill and Tracy Wolfson

• 12:15 p.m.: No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 9 TCU, CBS (Fubo)
• 2:50 p.m.: No. 1 Duke vs. No. 16 Siena, CBS (Fubo)
• 6:50 p.m.: No. 6 North Carolina vs. No. 11 VCU, TNT (Sling TV)
• 9:25 p.m.: No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 14 Penn, (Sling TV)

Jason Benetti, Jim Jackson and Allie LaForce

• 1:30 p.m.: No. 6 Louisville vs. No. 11 South Florida, TNT (Sling TV)
• 4:05 p.m.: No. 3 Michigan State vs. No. 14 North Dakota State, TNT (Sling TV)
• 7:10 p.m.: No. 1 Michigan vs. No. 16 Howard, CBS (Fubo)
• 9:45 p.m.: No. 8 Georgia vs. No. 9 Saint Louis, CBS (Fubo)

Brandon Gaudin, Chris Webber and Andy Katz

• 12:40 p.m.: No. 4 Nebraska vs. No. 13 Troy, truTV (Sling TV)
• 3:15 p.m.: No. 5 Vanderbilt vs. No. 12 McNeese, truTV (Sling TV)
• 7:35 p.m.: No. 7 Saint Mary's vs. No. 10 Texas A&M, truTV (Sling TV)
• 10:10 p.m.: No. 2 Houston vs. No. 15 Idaho, truTV (Sling TV)

Brad Nessler, Wally Szczerbiak and Jared Greenberg

• 12:40 p.m.: No. 5 Wisconsin vs. No. 12 High Point, TBS (Sling TV)
• 4:25 p.m.: No. 4 Arkansas vs. No. 13 Hawai'i, TBS (Sling TV)
• 7:25 p.m.: No. 6 BYU vs. No. 11 Texas, TBS (Sling TV)
• 10 p.m.: No. 3 Gonzaga vs. No. 14 Kennesaw State, TBS (Sling TV)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NCAA Tournament schedule today: First round games, times, how to watch

After a disastrous year last season, the Phoenix Suns were quick to recalibrate their roster in the summer. Moving off aging and injured stars in Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, bringing in a combination of tough veterans and youthful legs, and the influence of rookie head coach Jordan Ott have all done wonders for a team that was projected to win about 30 games this season. More importantly though, the absence of Durant and Beal has cleared up the ball handling/scoring logjam that Phoenix dealt with last season, leaving the offense largely in the hands of Devin Booker. Though still not a title contender, Phoenix has nevertheless been a fun story this year for the first time since they made the Finals back in 2021.

Meanwhile in San Antonio, a quick 2-0 road trip to California now turns into a quick 2-game homestand for the Spurs. They’re 8-2 in March, with one of the losses being a 5 point loss at home to Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets without Victor Wembanyama in the line-up. With a 60-win season/#1 seed very much on the table and April fast approaching, San Antonio’s young group is coming of age quicker than anyone expected them to, but very much aware of how much work is still left to be done.

---

San Antonio Spurs (51-18) vs Phoenix Suns (39-30)

March 19 2026 | 7:00 PM CT

Watch: FDSS | Listen: WOAI (1200 AM)

Spurs Injuries:, David Jones-Garcia, OUT

Suns Injuries: Mark Williams, foot (OUT), Dillon Brooks, hand (OUT), Grayson Allen, knee (questionable)

---

What to watch for

• Devin Booker has had another strong season, averaging at least 25 points for the 8th year in a row. His shooting percentages are down a bit, especially from beyond the arc, but he’s making up for it by getting to the charity stripe a career-best 8 times a game (87% FT shooter). Booker can score with the best guys in the NBA and is a willing playmaker. He’s been Phoenix’s main offensive initiator all season, but he’ll face a San Antonio defense tonight that has grown into arguably the best perimeter defense in the league thanks to Stephon Castle, a collection of big, physical wings, and the always-lurking Wembanyama patrolling the paint. Booker played just 9 minutes in the last match-up, a 121-94 San Antonio rout back on February 19th in Austin.

Devin Booker full highlights vs Celtics:

40 PTS
15-24 FG

Scored 23 straight points for the Suns across the second and third quarters. pic.twitter.com/p8KYPFiTgt

— Booker Muse (@DevinBookerMuse) March 17, 2026

• The Phoenix defense ranks 12th per 100 possessions. That’s just outside of the, “elite,” category, but it’s a massive improvement from their dreadful 28th ranking to finish last season. First year coach Jordan Ott has implemented a defensive system built on maximum effort and it can muck up a game for opposing offenses. Phoenix is top 5 in both steals per game and opponent turnovers per game, showing a knack for playing the passing lanes, but the Spurs are amongst the best teams in protecting the ball themselves.
• Phoenix’s offense is not only built around the gravity that Devin Booker creates as a dynamic offensive player, but also elite offensive rebounding. They grab nearly 13 offensive rebounds per game, the 5th best mark in the NBA this season, creating tons of extra opportunities for themselves. San Antonio is the best defensive rebounding team in the NBA though, and Phoenix has struggled to dominate the offensive glass margin since Mark Williams was sidelined earlier this month with a stress reaction in his left foot.

---

If you’d like to, you may follow along with the game on our Twitter profile (@poundingtherock) or visit our Game Thread!

BOSTON — Before the Celtics’ season started, Jaylen Brown decided he wanted to get to know his teammates on a deeper level to figure out how to lead them best. He’d long played alongside guys like Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and Sam Hauser, but now he was eager to better understand what made them tick and how he could communicate with them as effectively as possible.

For Joe Mazzulla, Brown’s relentless pursuit of that question was apparent from the beginning of the year.

“Jaylen’s approach to leadership this year has been getting to know his teammates – understanding how to push his teammates’ buttons, how to understand them better, how to communicate with them better,” Mazzulla said. “It’s something that he’s taken very seriously, his leadership off the court.”

But, the behind the scenes of that process may surprise people. In addition to the time Brown spent simply getting to know his teammates, this year, he also opted to learn and memorize their Chinese and Western zodiac signs, and numerology.

For those unfamiliar, zodiac signs are personality traits based on birth timing. Chinese zodiac signs are based on birth year, and are represented by an animal that indicates one’s personality, while Western zodiac signs are based on birth date, on the position of the sun at the time of one’s birth.

After the Celtics 120-99 win over the Golden State Warriors, when asked about his approach to leadership this season, Brown rattled off each of his teammates’ zodiac signs.

“Neemi, he’s Year of the Rabbit,” he said. “So, his communication is different from D-White, who is Year of the Dog. So, his communication style is different. Hugo is also a Dog. Payton is a Tiger. JT is a Tiger. Ron is a Dragon. Joe’s a Dragon. Nikola, he’s new to our team — he’s Year of the Horse. It’s Year of the Horse right now.”

Jaylen Brown explained how he’s memorized all of his teammate’s astrology and numerology in order to better learn how to communicate with them:

“I learned communication styles that work best for each individual, and started utilizing that when I speak to each and every guy.” pic.twitter.com/GkVfutJcMa

— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzell) March 19, 2026

For those wondering, according to Chinese astrology, here’s the significance behind each of those signs:

• Rabbits (like Neemias Queta) are gentle and empathetic,
• Dogs (like Derrick White and Hugo Gonzalez) are generous, warm, and easygoing.
• Tigers (like Jayson Tatum and Payton Pritchard) are confident and competitive.
• Dragons (like Ron Harper Jr and Joe Mazzulla) are powerful and ambitious.
• Horses (like Nikola Vucevic) are energetic and free-spirited

So, after he learned each teammate’s sign, Brown took it into account when figuring out how to best communicate with them.

“I started utilizing that when I speak to each and every guy,” Brown said. “I didn’t know if it would work before the season started, but that stuff definitely works.”

In addition to Chinese zodiac signs, Brown learned his teammates’ Western zodiac signs. He shared, for example, that Tatum is a Pisces (because his March 3rd birthday falls between February 19th and March 20th). Pisces, according to Western astrology, are known for being empathetic, highly intuitive, and emotionally sensitive.

“I learned communication styles that work best for each individual,” Brown said.

Brown also studied numerology, a belief system that assigns meaning to numbers, especially those connected to one’s birth date and name. Brown and Sam Hauser, for example, are both fives. (In numerology, the number 5 is all about freedom, change, and adventure; those who have a life path 5 hate feeling restricted).

Brown said he got inspired to go down this path after a few friends put it on his radar before the season. And, he feels like the results have been fruitful.

“They kind of suggested it — try to see if it works,” Brown said. “And everybody has a different kind of makeup of who they are and how they approach things. And if you learn a little bit about each person, what makes them tick, you can kind of learn more about how to maximize potential. All that type of stuff added up over the course of the season. And here we are.”

Milwaukee Bucks (28-40, 11th in the Eastern Conference) vs. Utah Jazz (20-49, 14th in the Western Conference)

Salt Lake City; Thursday, 9 p.m. EDT

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Bucks -4.5; over/under is 229.5

BOTTOM LINE: Utah hosts the Milwaukee Bucks after Brice Sensabaugh scored 41 points in the Utah Jazz's 147-111 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Jazz are 12-22 on their home court. Utah is eighth in the Western Conference with 31.8 defensive rebounds per game led by Jusuf Nurkic averaging 7.8.

The Bucks are 12-21 on the road. Milwaukee is 11-8 when it turns the ball over less than its opponents and averages 13.9 turnovers per game.

The Jazz average 117.2 points per game, 1.0 more point than the 116.2 the Bucks give up. The Bucks are shooting 48.0% from the field, 1.0% lower than the 49.0% the Jazz's opponents have shot this season.

The teams meet for the second time this season. In the last meeting on March 8 the Bucks won 113-99 led by 27 points from Giannis Antetokounmpo, while Keyonte George scored 22 points for the Jazz.

TOP PERFORMERS: Sensabaugh is scoring 13.9 points per game and averaging 3.0 rebounds for the Jazz. Isaiah Collier is averaging 13.7 points and 2.1 rebounds over the last 10 games.

Ryan Rollins is averaging 16.8 points, 5.6 assists and 1.5 steals for the Bucks. Bobby Portis is averaging 15.4 points and 5.4 rebounds over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Jazz: 2-8, averaging 112.5 points, 42.3 rebounds, 25.9 assists, 10.0 steals and 4.2 blocks per game while shooting 44.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 121.1 points per game.

Bucks: 2-8, averaging 106.3 points, 40.2 rebounds, 25.7 assists, 7.5 steals and 3.1 blocks per game while shooting 46.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.7 points.

INJURIES: Jazz: Lauri Markkanen: out (ankle), Keyonte George: out (leg), Walker Kessler: out for season (shoulder), Jusuf Nurkic: out for season (nose), Jaren Jackson Jr.: out for season (knee).

Bucks: Kyle Kuzma: day to day (elbow), Kevin Porter Jr.: day to day (knee), Myles Turner: day to day (calf), Giannis Antetokounmpo: out (ankle).

___

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

Boston Celtics (46-23, second in the Eastern Conference) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (24-44, 11th in the Western Conference)

Memphis, Tennessee; Friday, 8 p.m. EDT

BOTTOM LINE: Boston seeks to continue its three-game win streak with a victory over Memphis.

The Grizzlies are 13-20 on their home court. Memphis is seventh in the NBA with 28.5 assists per game led by Cam Spencer averaging 5.4.

The Celtics are 22-13 on the road. Boston scores 114.4 points and has outscored opponents by 7.4 points per game.

The Grizzlies are shooting 46.0% from the field this season, 1.9 percentage points higher than the 44.1% the Celtics allow to opponents. The Celtics are shooting 46.5% from the field, 1.1% lower than the 47.6% the Grizzlies' opponents have shot this season.

The teams square off for the second time this season. The Celtics won the last meeting 131-95 on Nov. 13. Payton Pritchard scored 24 points to help lead the Celtics to the win.

TOP PERFORMERS: Spencer is averaging 11.4 points and 5.4 assists for the Grizzlies. Jaylen Wells is averaging 14.7 points over the last 10 games.

Jaylen Brown is scoring 28.5 points per game with 7.0 rebounds and 5.1 assists for the Celtics. Derrick White is averaging 17.5 points and 4.1 rebounds while shooting 42.1% over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Grizzlies: 2-8, averaging 116.7 points, 38.1 rebounds, 26.4 assists, 9.8 steals and 5.7 blocks per game while shooting 45.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 122.9 points per game.

Celtics: 7-3, averaging 110.9 points, 48.8 rebounds, 25.9 assists, 6.1 steals and 4.2 blocks per game while shooting 44.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 103.5 points.

INJURIES: Grizzlies: Santi Aldama: out for season (knee), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: out for season (finger), Ja Morant: out (elbow), Scotty Pippen Jr.: out for season (toe), Zach Edey: out for season (ankle), Jahmai Mashack: out (ankle), Brandon Clarke: out (calf).

Celtics: Nikola Vucevic: out (finger).

___

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

New York Knicks (45-25, third in the Eastern Conference) vs. Brooklyn Nets (17-52, 13th in the Eastern Conference)

New York; Friday, 7:30 p.m. EDT

BOTTOM LINE: New York is looking to extend its four-game win streak with a victory against Brooklyn.

The Nets are 12-31 in Eastern Conference games. Brooklyn has the NBA's lowest-scoring offense averaging only 106.4 points per game.

The Knicks are 29-15 in Eastern Conference play. New York is fourth in the league with 12.9 offensive rebounds per game led by Mitchell Robinson averaging 4.4.

The Nets score 106.4 points per game, 4.2 fewer points than the 110.6 the Knicks give up. The Knicks average 14.6 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.2 more made shots on average than the 12.4 per game the Nets allow.

The teams meet for the fourth time this season. The Knicks won 120-66 in the last matchup on Jan. 22.

TOP PERFORMERS: Michael Porter Jr. is shooting 46.3% and averaging 24.2 points for the Nets. Tyson Etienne is averaging 1.3 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Jalen Brunson is scoring 26.3 points per game and averaging 3.4 rebounds for the Knicks. OG Anunoby is averaging 2.9 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Nets: 2-8, averaging 102.4 points, 40.4 rebounds, 23.4 assists, 7.9 steals and 5.5 blocks per game while shooting 43.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 116.1 points per game.

Knicks: 7-3, averaging 116.3 points, 48.4 rebounds, 29.9 assists, 8.7 steals and 3.3 blocks per game while shooting 49.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 105.2 points.

INJURIES: Nets: Noah Clowney: day to day (wrist), Ben Saraf: day to day (foot), Egor Demin: out for season (foot), Day'Ron Sharpe: out for season (thumb), Michael Porter Jr.: day to day (ankle).

Knicks: Miles McBride: out (ankle), Jalen Brunson: day to day (ankle).

___

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

Toronto Raptors (39-29, fifth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Denver Nuggets (42-28, sixth in the Western Conference)

Denver; Friday, 9 p.m. EDT

BOTTOM LINE: Toronto seeks to keep its three-game win streak alive when the Raptors take on Denver.

The Nuggets have gone 19-13 in home games. Denver scores 120.7 points and has outscored opponents by 4.2 points per game.

The Raptors are 20-13 in road games. Toronto has an 18-21 record against teams above .500.

The 120.7 points per game the Nuggets score are 8.9 more points than the Raptors give up (111.8). The Raptors are shooting 47.5% from the field, 0.6% higher than the 46.9% the Nuggets' opponents have shot this season.

The teams meet for the second time this season. In the last meeting on Jan. 1 the Nuggets won 106-103 led by 24 points from Peyton Watson, while Brandon Ingram scored 30 points for the Raptors.

TOP PERFORMERS: Jamal Murray is averaging 25.1 points and 7.1 assists for the Nuggets. Nikola Jokic is averaging 26.3 points over the last 10 games.

Scottie Barnes is scoring 18.7 points per game with 7.8 rebounds and 5.3 assists for the Raptors. RJ Barrett is averaging 22.2 points and 5.7 rebounds while shooting 56.5% over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Nuggets: 5-5, averaging 121.7 points, 43.9 rebounds, 29.7 assists, 6.2 steals and 3.1 blocks per game while shooting 49.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.8 points per game.

Raptors: 5-5, averaging 115.5 points, 40.3 rebounds, 25.7 assists, 8.2 steals and 3.9 blocks per game while shooting 49.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.0 points.

INJURIES: Nuggets: Aaron Gordon: out (rest), Peyton Watson: out (hamstring).

Raptors: Collin Murray-Boyles: out (thumb).

___

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

Karl-Anthony Towns has not been shy about letting it be known that he believes he is sacrificing for the team.

Earlier in the season, Knicks coach Mike Brown said that Towns — who got off to a slow start, at least in terms of his efficiency — had the biggest adjustment in the offensive system.

Then about midway through the season, Brown acknowledged that he made some changes to get Towns going.

Towns finally looks comfortable and is playing his best basketball of the season. In 14 games since the All-Star break, he is averaging 20.9 points per game on 58.9 percent shooting from the field and 43.1 percent shooting from 3-point range.

In the 51 games before the break, Towns averaged 19.8 points per game, but on a much worse 46.6 percent shooting from the field and 35.1 percent shooting from deep.

---

• CHECK OUT THE LATEST NBA STANDINGS AND KNICKS STATS

---

“I just wanna be in the spots I’m supposed to be and impact winning,” Towns said after Tuesday’s win over the Pacers. “I’ve been asked to take a different role this year and I’m glad I’m impacting winning and maximizing being the star of my role. Just doing whatever our team needs so that we can be the best version of ourselves, especially right now, we’re getting late in the season where we need to build better standards.”

---

Josh Hart is starting to rediscover his shooting form.

Over the past five games, he went 9-for-14 from 3-point range, helped by his 5-for-5 showing Tuesday.

Hart’s 3-point efficiency had been the best of his career in the first half of the year, but he struggled badly coming out of the All-Star break.

His ability to be an at least serviceable shooter is important for the Knicks offense, since opponents often put their center on him and sag off him to help on others when he struggles with his shot.

“I think since the All-Star [break], obviously I had been struggling in terms of shooting,” Hart said Tuesday. “I think I’m kind of in my head in terms of a lot of stuff. So I just gotta trust my work, go out there and shoot my shots.”

---

Jose Alvarado is already tied for fifth on the Knicks defensive player of the game leaderboard despite playing just 19 games with the team. He earned his third recognition for Tuesday’s win.

After successfully claiming back-to-back wins in Houston, the Lakers (44-25) will travel east overnight to take on the Miami Heat (38-31) on Thursday. LA looks to sweep the season series against Miami and extend its current winning streak to eight.

Start time and TV schedule

Who: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Miami Heat

When: 5 p.m. PT, Mar 19

Where: Kaseya Center

Watch: Spectrum SportsNet

---

The Lakers are on a roll right now, playing their best basketball of the season. They’re rising to the occasion and peaking at the right time.

Now the question is, how hot are the Lakers truly? Well, we’re about to find out on Thursday as they take on a competitive Heat squad.

This game could be considered one of LA’s hardest games this season. The Lakers will be playing on the second night of a back-to-back against a well-coached team that plays hard, regardless of who is on their roster.

The Heat are coming off two losses in a row, so they’re certainly determined to get back in the winning column, especially since they’re also fighting for a decent position in the Eastern Conference standings.

It’s uncertain who will suit up for the Lakers. There’s a good chance that LeBron James won’t after taking a hard fall and hurting his elbow in Wednesday’s win versus the Rockets. But if Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves suit up for this one, Los Angeles still has a high chance of winning this game. After all, the purple and gold are 9-2 this season when James is out, but Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves play.

Miami ranks 13th in the league in offense and actually has a top-four defense. They rebound the ball very well and average the second-most points per game at 120.2, led by their microwave scorers, Tyler Herro and Norman Powell, who will be suiting up for this one.

It’s going to be tough to win this one, but not impossible for the purple and gold, especially since they’re playing very good basketball right now. If they can outexecute the Heat and continue to stay hot on the offense, they certainly can pull this one off.

Let’s see if the Lakers can remain perfect in their current six-game road trip on Thursday.

Notes and Updates

• Since the Lakers will be on a back-to-back, there’s no injury report yet released for this one.
• As for the Heat, Terry Rozier (not with the team) and Andrew Wiggins (toe) are out.
• Jaime Jaquez Jr. (left hip tightness) is questionable, while Bam Adebayo (right calf tightness) is probable.

You can follow Nicole on Twitter at @nicoleganglani.

CALGARY, Alberta (AP) — Joel Farabee and rookie Matvei Gridin scored in a shootout to give the Calgary Flames a 2-1 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Wednesday night.

Connor Zary scored early in the first period for Calgary, and Devin Cooley stopped 26 shots.

Dylan Holloway tied it for St. Louis early in the second. Joel Hofer made 31 saves.

After Farabee scored in the second round of the shootout to give Calgary a 1-0 lead, coach Ryan Huska turned to Gridin after Jimmy Snuggerud was stopped, and Gridin won it with a shot over Hofer’s glove.

The unlikely star performer of the opening 40 minutes was St. Louis video coach Elliott Mondou, with the Flames having three goals waived off after Blues’ coach’s challenges.

St. Louis had won eight consecutive games against Calgary,

Up next

Blues: At Vancouver on Saturday night.

Flames: Host Florida on Friday night.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

This Lakers-Rockets contest was close in the fourth, but Luka Dončić applied pressure and Houston folded. He had dazzling alley-oop passes to Rui Hachimura and LeBron James and then put the game to rest with one of his signature 3-point shots.

Luka is already considered one of the best players in the world. However, if he keeps this up, he’ll be in the MVP conversation, because it’s hard to argue that anyone is playing better than him.

So, let’s dive into the win. As always, grades are based on expectations for each player. A “B” grade represents the average performance for that player.

LeBron James

34 minutes, 30 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 2 turnovers, 3 fouls, 13-14 FG, 2-2 3PT, 2-3 FT, 0

LeBron was aggressive from the jump in this game. He attacked the rim and had multiple highlight-reel dunks in the first half.

James was a perfect 8-8 from the field after two quarters, and while he eventually missed a shot in the fourth, it was his elite play throughout the contest that helped the Lakers win.

Grade: A

Marcus Smart

34 minutes, 5 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, 2-7 FG, 1-5 3PT, +7

Smart made his typical impact on the defensive side of the ball. He wasn’t much of an offensive factor, but he consistently made winning plays, which is why he’s solidified himself as the team’s fifth starter.

Grade: B+

Deandre Ayton

34 minutes, 16 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 blocks, 1 turnover, 3 fouls, 8-10 FG, +1

Let these two games put to rest the silly notion that Clint Capela is anywhere near Ayton’s talent level. Ayton shot 80% from the field, and while his production waned in the second half, it was enough to get LA the win.

Grade: B

Austin Reaves

39 minutes, 14 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists, 1 block, 1 turnover, 3 fouls, 4-9 FG, 1-3 3PT, 5-6 FT, +6

Reaves continues to struggle with his shooting, but he contributed by distributing the ball. His desire to be a positive force on the defensive end was also pretty evident. Hopefully, Reaves gets out of this shooting slump soon. The Lakers are better when Reaves is the team’s second-best scorer.

Grade: C-

Luka Dončić

38 minutes, 40 points, 9 rebounds, 10 assists, 1 steal, 5 turnovers, 3 fouls, 12-25 FG, 7-17 3PT, 9-14 FT, +2

It wasn’t just that Luka put this game on ice, it was the way he did it that made it a memory. He was Luka magic in the fourth, dazzling with his dribbling and putting the exclamation point on this statement win with a step-back three. Luka added some colorful words, letting everyone in Houston know he is that guy.

"DONCIC. STEPS BACK. THREE-POINTER. PUTS IT IN."

35 PTS FOR LUKA MAGIC 🔥 pic.twitter.com/b1CjBwRhJP

— ESPN (@espn) March 19, 2026

Dončić can clean up some of those turnovers and free throw misses, but all things considered, he was magnificent.

Grade: A+

Rui Hachimura

21 minutes, 8 points, 3 rebounds, 1 block, 1 foul, 3-4 FG, 2-2 3PT, +8

Hachimura had two big baskets in the fourth when the game was still hanging in the balance. His opportunities may have shrunk, but his impact remains huge.

Grade: C

Luke Kennard

18 minutes, 5 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 1 steal, 3 turnovers, 2 fouls, 2-3 FG, 1-2 3PT, +7

Kennard remains one of the players Lakers head coach JJ Redick trusts, and for good reason. He can knock down shots, set a strong screen and run the offense well.

He needs to score a bit more during his time for it to increase, but he was solid in this contest.

Grade: C-

Jaxson Hayes

14 minutes, 1 point, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 1 foul, 1-4 FT, +6

Hayes didn’t give the Lakers much in this game. He was essentially just playing to give Ayton some rest. Hopefully, these games aren’t a precursor to the kind of performances he will give this spring.

Grade: D

Jake LaRavia

10 minutes, 5 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 2 fouls, 2-4 FG, 1-1 3PT, +3

LaRavia’s minutes have begun to dwindle here in March. His offense isn’t consistent enough, and while his defense is solid, that’s not going to be enough to keep him on the floor. Still, in the fourth, Redick went to him and he had a pretty good shift. If he plays more like that early during games, he’ll get some more run.

Grade: C+

JJ Redick

Redick pushed the right buttons in this game. He went to LaRavia late, and it paid off. His rotations have tightened, and the players have responded well. For the Lakers to beat the Rockets on the road in back-to-back games wasn’t easy, but Redick got it done and deserves credit for that.

Grade: A+

Wednesday’s DNPs: Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, Adou Thiero, Kobe Bufkin, Bronny James

Wednesday’s inactives: Maxi Kleber, Drew Timme, Nick Smith Jr., Chris Mañon

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.