With the Knicks playing in their first NBA Finals in 27 years, the commissioner was asked about the one Knicks legend missing from the alumni that have been filling Madison Square Garden this spring. Oakley, the bruising forward who spent a decade as a fan favorite in New York, has been at war with the controversial Knicks owner since his 2017 ejection from the Garden and the lawsuit that followed.
Silver said he wishes it were different.
“It is a shame in that I tried, Michael Jordan tried too, to broker peace between Charles and Jim Dolan,” Silver said before Game 1 of the Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. “Our efforts were unsuccessful. I think it’s unfortunate for the NBA that this is an ongoing situation."
Oakley was forcibly removed from his seat at the Garden during a Knicks game in February 2017 and arrested. He later sued Dolan and Madison Square Garden Entertainment, alleging assault and defamation. The case has dragged on through the federal courts for years.
Silver said the litigation has tied his hands.
“As you know, it’s currently wrapped up in litigation,” Silver said. “I tried my best. So I don’t really see anything else I can do at the moment.”
The absence stings.
Silver opened his pre-Finals news conference by rattling off Patrick Ewing, Allan Houston, John Starks and Walt Frazier among the Kincks alumni active around the franchise during this postseason run. Oakley, a fixture on the 1990s Knicks teams that reached the 1994 Finals, has not been part of that group.
“I think that’s one of the things that makes this league so special is this family environment that we have,” Silver said.
With the 2026 season now wrapped up for Mizzou Baseball, Kerrick Jackson & Co. currently find themselves navigating a heavy wave of departures. To date, a dozen Tigers have officially entered the portal.
Here's Your 2026 Mizzou Transfer Portal Directory: Missouri currently has 12 entries into the portal, with 5 pitchers and 7 position players. Non-graduate players have until June 30th to enter the portal, and can take as they long as they want to commit. #MizzouNOWpic.twitter.com/hWKgGWCM2K
The list of talent includes five pitchers and seven position players, featuring several notable names who saw extensive action this season. Names like Blaize Ward and Kaden Peer, alongside key players such as Chris Patterson and Sam Parker. For a detailed, player-by-player look at everyone who entered the portal, check out our complete offseason post here.
New Talent Arises
With that being said, the focus in Columbia is already shifting to the wave of exciting new talent coming in to play for the Tigers.
June 3
Leading the charge for the incoming transfers is Florida Gulf Coast University shortstop Wilfred Gonzalez, who officially became Mizzou’s first portal commitment on Wednesday, June 3. The Miami, Fla., Gonzalez brings an elite bat to the Tigers’ lineup after putting together a stellar season for the Eagles.
He managed to bat an impressive .323 while racking up 74 hits, 11 doubles, 2 home runs and 30 RBIs. As an incoming senior, Gonzalez provides Mizzou with a a heavy approach that will hopefully translate well against elite SEC arms.
The first commitment to Missouri in the 2026 transfer class is FGCU's Wilfred Gonzalez! Gonzalez played in all 58 games for the Eagles, primarily at shortstop, batting .323 with 74 hits, 11 doubles, 2 HRs, and 30 RBIs. #MizzouNOWhttps://t.co/PHbWObMzxJ
Securing a capable infielder will be the first vital step in rebuilding from what has been lost. This ultimately proves that the Tigers are moving in the right direction to reload just as fast as they lose talent.
We’ll be using this landing page to provide all the additions to the Tigers’ roster.
June 8
The Tigers added to their pitching staff with the addition of the redshirt junior Carter DeGondea from Georgia Southern. He was heavily used last season by the Eagles this season, making 16 appearances and per team data, throwing the second-most innings on the team (58).
DeGondea finished his 2026 campaign with a 1-5 record and a 8.69 ERA over 14 starts. He struck out 57 batters including seven in his season-best performance against Troy on Mar. 28. DeGondea also allowed just one hit across five innings of work in that outing and conceded zero earned runs.
Having lost a multitude of pitchers to the portal thus far, DeGondea provides an addition for Missouri to what has been a consistent subtraction of arms in the Tigers’ summer portal thus far.
June 10
The Tigers continue to thrive in the portal by locking down their third newest transfer commitment, New Mexico State junior first baseman and designated hitter Steve Solorzano.
Bringing a lethal bat and extensive arm to Columbia, Solorzano joins the squad after a memorable year with the Aggies, highlighted by a CUSA First Team selection in 2025. With over 132 career starts, he has proven to be an absolute weapon against opposing pitching, highlighted by a dominant 2026 season where he led his team at .341 with 78 hits, nine home runs and 51 RBIs.
As an added bonus, Solorzano made three pitching appearances where he tossed five innings out of the bullpen. By adding another producer right after securing an infielder and pitcher, the Tigers are sending a roaring message to the rest of the conference.
Massive pull for @MizzouBaseball nabbing number 14 on the Board in Solorzano. Closed some games for NMState, has hit 50+ XBH in his college career, and has been a three-year starter. Excited for the Tigers! https://t.co/3P6rDaJSL7
Arkansas High graduate Ty Waid is heading to Missouri to continue his baseball career, rejoining the SEC after a brief appearance at Arkansas and a couple years at the JUCO level.
The Tiger officially picked up the right-handed pitcher and utility player from Weatherford College on May 30th in the transfer portal (we didn’t see it until 6/11, apologies), following a notable 2026 season where Waid batted .368 with 28 home runs and 88 RBIs. His lethal ability at the plate combined with his valuable defensive was precisely what Mizzou needed as they continue to shape their current roster.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6#committed@MizzouBaseballpic.twitter.com/MxWLE6S1fn
The Tigers’ offense took another massive strive forward with the addition of Javier Gorostola, who officially is Missouri’s second incoming transfer from FGCU this summer. Rejoining his former teammate Wilfred Gonzalez, Gorostola brings an elite, proven bat to the SEC after a dominant 2026 season where the All-ASUN First Team selection weaponized a .370 batting average alongside 81 hits, 13 home runs and 54 RBIs.
Javier Gorostola has announced he’s committed to @MizzouBaseball.
The second FGCU player heading to Missouri this portal season. One of the top hitters in the portal. pic.twitter.com/lwtdDSxKa9
Beyond his offensive firepower, Gorostola is just as reliable with his glove, recording 48 assists and 21 putouts while splitting time as a catcher and infielder. His presence with Mizzou provides the Tigers with an immediate threat and a highly versatile defensive weapon.
The second transfer addition for the Tigers was announced later in the afternoon. Ryan Marton, who pitched with the UNLV Rebels last season is a 6-foot-4 right-handed pitcher who announced his commitment to the Tigers program. In his 13 appearances last season, Marton struck out 22 batters, six of which came in the Rebels’ season finale game against San Diego State.
Marton in this same outing also pitched his season-high of innings (4.2) and strikeouts. All in all, the right-hander pitched 19 innings in 2026 with a 6.16 ERA and walked nine total batters.
June 15: 2 more additions
The Tigers picked up the commitment of Lipscomb transfer Cam Pruitt — who was named a Second Team All-ASUN member leading the team with a .357 batting average and 48 RBI.
In the NCAA Starkville Regional, Pruitt went 3-6 at the plate with a double and a run scored in two games.
Cam Pruitt is the newest incoming transfer for the Missouri Tigers. The former Lipscomb Bison posted a team-leading .357 BA with 48 RBIs in 2026. The senior infielder is yet another solid addition to Mizzou’s rebuilding offense.#MizzouNOWhttps://t.co/e0Y51BJ1el
On June 18, the Tigers earned a commitment from Ethan Moore, who redshirted in the 2026 season for the Tennessee Volunteers. Moore was a highly rated prospect out of Illinois coming into his freshman year, the No. 5-ranked player and the No. 2-ranked shortstop in the state.
Moore still has four years of eligibility as the top 100 prospect in 2025 joins the Tigers for their upcoming season. He was a top-100 prospect for good reason, earning 2025 Class 4A All-State honors at Oak Park & River Forest High School. He was the No. 35-ranked shortstop in the nation according to Perfect Game
June 24
Jadyn Furgason, a top-10 recruit in Missouri’s 2025 class marks another pitching addition for the Tigers in the transfer portal. The right-hander played his freshman season at Texas, with his only highlight in the Longhorns’ preseason scrimmage. He redshirted during the 2026 season.
Jadyn Furgason is the newest addition to Missouri’s transfer portal class. The former Longhorn RHP did not see playing time in his debut season for Texas. Furgason was ranked the 10th best player in the state of Missouri in his 2025 recruiting class. #MizzouNOWhttps://t.co/it014tuvvk
The Tigers have landed another huge addition to its pitching staff with the commitment of Jacksonville State transfer Sam Schmidt. The right-handed pitcher has been a star for the Bristol Blues in the NECBL this summer, pitching a 1.23 ERA with 10 strikeouts in just 7.1 innings.
Jacksonville State transfer Sam Schmidt has committed to Missouri.
The RHP has dominated for the Bristol Blues of the NECBL this summer with a 1.23 ERA and 10 SO in 7.1 IP.
Schmidt will be at his fourth school in as many seasons. He comes to the SEC after spending his first two… pic.twitter.com/4iGoMdaGrd
Armed with a diverse five-pitch mix, including his lethal four-seam fastball that tops out at 97 mph, Schmidt brings the heat to the SEC. He joins Mizzou for his fourth school, following previous stops at Troy, Northwest Florida State and Jax State, where he racked up 10 strikeouts during his 2026 campaign. His versatile arm will be key for the Tigers during their grueling season.
June 30
Khamaree Thomas is coming off a strong sophomore year at Michigan State and will provide the Tigers a needed addition in the outfield, considering the loss of Kaden Peer to the portal. Thomas won the Steve Garvey Most Improved Player team award with the Spartans last year and for good reason.
In his freshman season in 2025, Thomas played just five games, starting one with a .167 batting average. His .319 batting average in his 2026 sophomore season also featured 58 hits, which put him third on the Spartans roster in both categories.
Thomas hit two homers and picked up 31 RBI in his bounce-back season and isn’t afraid to play some of the small ball style/aggressive base running identity that Mizzou used at times last season. Thomas led the Spartans in sacrifice bunts with six and also tallied eight stolen bases. 31 starts in center field also included a highlight reel catch against Bowling Green in a game that he picked up 3 RBI as well.
Mizzou’s latest roster pieces have local ties. Another Tiger with elite JUCO experience is coming to Columbia courtesy of the commitment of St. Louis native Adam Kilburn. Making the leap from San Jacinto CC, Kilburn joins Ty Waid as the second junior college standout to join the team. The righty’s time on the mound was highlighted by 15 strikeouts over 14.0 innings in 2026, proving more hope for the Tigers through another tough SEC schedule.
Missouri picks up St. Louis native Adam Kilburn from San Jacinto CC. Kilburn pitched in 8 games with 14.0 IP, 6 ER, 12 BBs, and 15 Ks for the Ravens in 2026. Kilburn joins Ty Waid as Mizzou’s second pickup from the junior college level.#MizzouNOWhttps://t.co/QpyoCbnvtR
The Tigers are bringing in another local talent back home with the addition of St. Peters native Charlie Wortham. Originally entering Mississippi State as a true freshman out of De Smet Jesuit High School, Perfect Game ranked him as the number one catching prospect in Missouri. At State, however, he was one of three catchers on the roster, resulting in a redshirt and a necessary change in scenery. Wortham enters Mizzou hungry to weaponize on his second year of eligibility. Wortham is the Tigers’ third pickup from an SEC team.
Oh led High point with a .351 batting average and was named the Big South Player of the Year. High Point finished first in the Big South regular season but were eliminated in their conference tournament. Per Eli Hoff, other SEC programs were interested and the Tigers won the recruiting battle.
July 29
The Tigers secured a massive pick-up on the recruiting trail with a commitment from incoming freshman Myles Ross, who officially flipped his original pledge from Texas Tech. Ranked as a top-11 prospect out of the state of Kansas City, Kan. for the class of 2026, Ross brings a huge dynamic to Columbia with his ability to switch-hit at the plate.
First i want to thank God for guiding me through this journey and for the doors He continues to open. After a lot of a prayer and conversations with my family, I've decided to commit to the university of Missouri. GOD's PLAN IS THE BEST PLAN. Go tigers!🐯 @MizzouBaseballpic.twitter.com/nhO1pw88CM
His defensive versatility makes him an immediate luxury for the team, possessing the range and arm strength to throw from across the infield at shortstop, second base, third base and even the outfield. By locking down this key player, the Tigers are adding an elite athlete to the roster who can alter the game on both sides of the batter’s box.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone revealed that team captain and star outfielder Aaron Judge is set to undergo further imaging on his injured ribs as well as his chest.
The three-time (and currently reigning) American League MVP has not featured in their current home series against the Cleveland Guardians. In his absence, the team has begun to falter, losing 9-4 on Tuesday and 5-4 on Wednesday. His status for the weekend's three-game tilt against the Boston Red Sox remains uncertain, but few would be surprised to see him miss out on that crucial rivalry matchup entirely.
Following Wednesday's loss, Boone told the media that he expects to learn more about Judge's condition "later tonight or tomorrow," explaining that because the organization doesn't yet know "what exactly [Judge is] dealing with", there is still no timeline or expectation for Judge's return to the lineup.
To this point, Judge's slash line reads .248/.375/.533 with 17 home runs and 38 RBI. It speaks to Judge's greatness that a .907 OPS is the mark of a "down year."
The last time Judge missed significant time was 2023, when he missed 52 games due to torn ligaments in his right big toe and a hip strain.
Charles Barkley was frustrated with the Knicks’ first-half defensive performance in Game 1 of the NBA Finals — but had kudos for one bright spot on the other side of the ball.
During the “Inside the NBA” halftime show on Wednesday night, the Suns great laid into the Knicks for allowing wide open 3-pointers through the first half of Game 1 where the Knicks ended down 55-48.
“It’s really been terrible defense on the Knicks,” Barkley said when asked what the story of the first half was. “Cause if you actually look at [Julian Champagnie’s] threes. Why is he wide open? There’s no reason to be leaving him wide open.”
Charles Barkley crushed the Knicks poor perimeter defense in the first half. Getty Images
Champagnie led all scorers with 15 points in the first half, going 5-of-6 from the field, all of which came from 3-point range.
The Knicks were outshot from distance by the Spurs, who went 9-of-24 from three, while the Knicks ended the first half 6-of-20.
Barkley was impressed with Karl-Anthony Towns, who scored eight first-half points.
Julian Champagnie shot the lights out in the first half of Game 1. NBAE via Getty Images
“The Spurs can’t guard the pick and roll. When [the Knicks] run the pick and roll with KAT they get something good everytime,” Barkley said. “We have to give KAT his flowers.”
Starting pitcher Corbin Burnes #39 of the Arizona Diamondbacks walks off the field with assistant athletic trainer Max Esposito during the fifth inning against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field on June 01, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.
The Diamondbacks won’t be getting Corbin Burnes back any time soon.
Burnes, 31, underwent surgery last June and had been attempting to return by August, but will now likely have to wait until September, per Lovullo.
“It’s a blow,” Lovullo said. “It’s something that we’re going to have to deal with. It’s just what we do in this game. We’ve got very qualified players in that clubhouse that are going to get some opportunities. We’ve got five really good starting pitchers right now and they’re doing a good job. I want that to continue.”
Corbin Burnes of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches during the game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on Sunday, June 1, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. MLB Photos via Getty Images
Lovullo said Burnes felt “something was a little tight” in his throwing shoulder and underwent an MRI on Monday that showed a strain.
He added that it will be “weeks, not days,” until Burnes can begin throwing again.
Burnes was one of the top starting pitchers in baseball before coming to Arizona, making four All-Star teams and posting a 2.94 ERA from 2021-24. It was the fifth-lowest ERA in baseball among pitchers with at least 400 innings on the mound over that stretch.
Starting pitcher Corbin Burnes of the Arizona Diamondbacks walks off the field with assistant athletic trainer Max Esposito during the fifth inning against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field on June 1, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. Getty Images
He looked the part during his brief stint with the Diamondbacks in 2025, posting a 2.66 across 11 outings before going down.
Despite Burnes’ absence, Arizona is sitting at 32-28, which is tied with the Padres for second place in the National League West heading into Wednesday’s action.
Jun 3, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Cleveland Guardians first baseman Rhys Hoskins (8) celebrates with third baseman Jose Ramirez (11) after hitting a two run home run during the third inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Tonight, the Yankees were a cat that couldn’t catch the mouse. To be fair, the mouse in question was capable of dealing mighty blows to the cat. The Guardians grabbed their well-earned series win in the Bronx by flexing their muscles, clubbing three home runs off Gerrit Cole and always finding the timely hit to keep the tardy Yankee offense from responding with enough pop of their own. Gavin Williams was far from terrific on the mound for Cleveland, but the bullpen was able to stifle the Bombers just enough for a 5-4 final.
Cole’s scoreless streak to begin his season was snapped by a single swing in the second. Kyle Manzardo scooped a tumbling curveball — far from the worst offering of the game from Cole — and elevated it high and far to the facing of the second deck for a 1-0 Cleveland lead. We saw that power from him a few postseasons ago; his seventh long ball of the year gave the Guards the initiative.
Thankfully, the Bombers bashed back. Jazz Chisholm Jr. probably wasn’t consciously trying to clock a ball further than Manzardo did, but that’s what he did to lead off the second against Williams. Jazz turned on a belt-high heater from the tall right-hander and launched it 409 feet to reach the second deck. Of course, with nobody aboard, the homers counted the same; we were back to even.
The Cleveland offense which was in a groove last night found their stride again in the top of the fourth inning. It started with a hot line drive off the wall from José Ramírez that a strong throw in from José Caballero limited to a single. Ramírez would be able to trot home thanks to a two-out thunderstrike from veteran power bat Rhys Hoskins. Hoskins seized on a hanging slider from Cole and kept his blast fair down the left field line to make it 3-1 Cleveland.
Once again, the Yankees were able to respond quickly, albeit not with a two run shot. Still, a homer is a homer, and Caballero was more than willing to provide with a skyscraping fly ball to left that eluded the Guardians’ Angel Martínez and nestled into the glove of a Yankee fan and brought the Bombers within one.
Martínez lobbied for fan interference, but let’s face it; he’d have to be Victor Wembanyama’s height to snare that one. Or perhaps Mitchell Robinson’s — this is Knicks country, after all.
Unfortunately, Cole continued to struggle to keep the ball in the ballpark. The Guardians are not known for their proficiency against velocity, but it’s still unwise to give a center-cut offering of any speed to José Ramírez. The superstar third baseman continued his excellent career performance against Gerrit with a solo shot to right, restoring the two-run advantage at 4-2.
Manzardo continued the extra-base hit parade by smacking a double to the gap, then a walk to Hoskins spelled the end of Cole’s night. It wasn’t entirely fair to say Cole didn’t have his stuff per se, but every mistake he made was punished in a timely fashion. His breaking pitches routinely caught too much plate for a lineup that was suddenly geared to do damage, especially down the foul lines. Gerrit departed in line for the loss, replaced by Fernando Cruz.
Cruz did his job to strand the duo on base, but the Yankees had work to do against Williams, who was operating on cruise control aside from those solo homers. Ben Rice jostled him a bit with a leadoff double to start the home sixth, then advanced to third on a productive out from Paul Goldschmidt. That was sufficient to chase Williams from the mound.
Steven Vogt brought in lefty Tim Herrin to face Cody Bellinger, but the left-on-left matchup never daunts Cody. He made quality contact to center field for a lineout, and Steven Kwan airmailed the throw home to allow Rice to score easily on the sac fly. Herrin, who was in the game just as much to face Jazz as he was to face Bellinger, retired the Yankee second baseman to hold the lead at 4-3.
But the scuffling Yankee bullpen backpedaled. Tim Hill’s recent funk continued: he surrendered some more loud noises as Ramírez collected his third hit, and Manzardo nearly scored him on a booming double off the center field wall. Ramírez’s helmet flew off and obstructed him in a rare twist of good fortune, forcing him to retreat to third. Naturally Paul Blackburn entered and promptly wasted the lucky break by serving up a perfect batting practice ball to Hoskins, who scored Ramírez on a simple single to left. Once again, the Guards led by a pair.
Like last night, the Yankees bats were unable to solve Hunter Gaddis, who put up a zero in the bottom of the eighth, then a clean ninth from Blackburn brought this irritating game of cat-and-mouse to its final frame.
Goldschmidt came to the dish ready to hit against closer Cade Smith, rapping a double into the left field corner to immediately bring up Bellinger as the tying run. A lawn dart from Smith immediately moved Goldschmidt up 90 feet, Cody repeated his sixth-iunning act by grabbing a sac fly, but it seemed to have ultimately done Smith a favor. He roared back to strike out Chisholm, then got Caballero to pop out to end the night.
The Bombers continually played from behind tonight, and never found the big hit they needed to flip the script. They fell 5-4.
The Yankees will seek to salvage the final game and ward off a sweep at the hands of the AL Central leaders. Carlos Rodón will toe the slab, giving this Cleveland lineup which has found success against the Yankees’ righties a different look. Slade Cecconi will oppose Rodón, with the Thursday matinée kicking off at 1:35 PM on YES.
KANSAS CITY, MO - MAY 23: Stephen Kolek #32 of the Kansas City Royals celebrates with a teammate after pitching a complete game and winning the game between the Seattle Mariners and the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on Saturday, May 23, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Kyle Rivas/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Both starters were dealing tonight. Despite that, the Royals were able to get on the board early. Vinnie Pasquantino turned on a fastball in the first inning and drove it out of the park down the right field line. Bobby Witt Jr. had walked on four pitches right before that, so the Royals had a 2-0 lead just three batters into the game.
After that, Chase Burns only allowed a few Royals on base and when he did, he would just strike everyone out to prevent them from coming around to score. He struck out 9 Royals across his six innings before turning it over to the bullpen.
Stephen Kolek also felt like striking out a lot of batters today. Through four innings he was straight up dominant before it seemed his command started to wane a bit. In the 5th inning this got him into a little trouble. Will Benson led off that inning with a bunt single because the defense was back and shaded to pull leaving the third base line a long way from any defenders. That ended up not mattering because Kolek rolled up a double play and looked like he was going to get through five without any runs, but Matt McLain had a seeing eye single to keep the inning going and get it back to the top of the lineup. Blake Dunn then saw a slider break into the middle of the zone and drove it out to tie up the game. Kolek still managed to get through 7 innings and struck out 8 for the second time in his career. The final line was 7IP, 6H, 2BB, 2ER, 8K. He had 7 Ks through three innings though, so his slider that was dominant early lost some of its power the 2nd and 3rd time through Cincinnati’s order.
In a year that has mostly gone wrong, Stephen Kolek has been a bright a spot. He now has a 3.32 ERA and four of his six starts have been quality starts. Not bad for a guy who was 7th on the depth chart for the rotation.
With the starters out, it was a new game all tied up. Daniel Lynch was the first out of the pen for the Royals. Other than a load double off the wall from pinch hitter Dane Myers, Lynch looked in control. The Reds’ relievers only allowed a single to Pasquantino in the 7th and 8th. The Royals then got something going in the 9th. Jac Caglianone led off the inning with his second single of the night, which brought in Tyler Tolbert as a pinch runner. Isaac Collins then sac bunted him to get a runner in scoring position with Michael Massey coming up. Tony Santillan was having his attention divided watching Tolbert on base and trying to pitch to Massey until finally, on the 8th pitch of the plate appearance, Michael singled to right and got the Royals back ahead 3-2. There was still only one out and a runner on. Nick Loftin came up to try and get some insurance runs. Ryan Lefebvre then said, “Loftin has not hit a home run yet this year”. Two seconds later he did just that and the Royals’ lead was extended to 3.
Lane Thomas, who pinch hit for Kyle Isbel in the 7th, walked and that ended Santillan’s night. Zachary McCambley was next up and had his major league debut. He struck out Carter Jensen and started heading for the dugout, which his teammates are going to have some fun with I am sure given that there were only 2 outs. And the Royals kept making things interesting with a Bobby Witt single and then an intentional walk to Vinnie after Bobby took second on defensive indifference. Bases loaded, Salvador Perez coming to the plate, but it was not to be as he struck out and the lead stayed 5-2.
The Royals have blown multiple saves through this bad stretch of baseball. Lucas Erceg was not given the opportunity to have a fourth consecutive blown save and Alex Lange came in to try and close it out. Spencer Steer immediately doubled into the left field corner and that sinking feeling started to creep in. The Reds did have their 7, 8, and 9 hitters coming though. Benson struck out on a check swing and Cincy decided to pinch hit with Edwin Arroyo and his 1 career hit after making his debut on Monday. He was called out on a slider that hit the top of the zone for strike three. Noelvi Marte was up and things got a little weird. He checked his swing on the first pitch for a ball, but then said it hit his arm, so the Reds decided to challenge. They did not win the challenge and Marte returned to the batter’s box. The next pitch was called a strike and Marte challenged that turning it into a ball and eventually leading to a walk. Dunn was back up with a chance to hit a second game-tying home run of the day, but then he bunted the first pitch foul? Bunting with 2 outs and runners on first and second was a strange choice. He then hit a fly ball to center than Lane Thomes caught ending the threat, giving the Royals a win for the game and the series.
That was an uncomfortable ninth inning, but the bullpen did its job tonight. Thanks to Kolek they only needed to take care of two innings and they did. Next it is off to Minnesota for four games against a division rival who is not very good, though their record is still quite a bit better than Kansas City’s.
Adam Silver is not budging on the 65-game rule. Stars and agents have pushed back since it took effect in the 2023-24 season, tying eligibility for the league’s biggest individual awards to playing in roughly 80% of the regular season. Speaking before Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the NBA commissioner said the rule is doing exactly what the league wanted.
“I’m frankly not ready to support a change,” Silver said. “I just take a step back to the situation we were dealing with when we went into the last collective bargaining negotiation and put in place the 65-game rule.”
Silver said roughly a third of All-NBA players in the seasons leading up to the rule did not play in 65 games. The league and the National Basketball Players Association built in exceptions for players who fall short by a game or two.
Two exceptions were granted this season. Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, who missed time around the birth of his child, and Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham, who suffered a collapsed lung, were both ruled eligible for awards after appeals. Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards applied for an exception and was denied.
“I think the rule is working,” Silver said. “Of course when we sit down to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement with the players, we are happy to talk about it.”
Silver did leave one door open. Asked whether the league should announce regular-season award winners at the end of the regular season rather than dribble them out across the playoffs, he said it was worth a look.
"That’s an interesting thought,” Silver said. “So we should look at that. “
Kawhi Leonard, Aspiration probe nearing end
The independent investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers, Kawhi Leonard and the now-bankrupt company Aspiration is close to wrapping up, Silver said.
The probe, launched in September, centers on a four-year, $28 million endorsement deal Leonard signed with Aspiration in 2022 through his personal company, KL2 Aspire. Independent journalist Pablo Torre alleged that Leonard did no promotional work for the company, and that the contract was structured so it would void if he left the Clippers.
If proven, the arrangement would amount to salary cap circumvention. Leonard had already signed a four-year, $176 million maximum contract with the Clippers in 2021. Owner Steve Ballmer, separately, had personally invested $50 million in Aspiration around the same time the Clippers entered a $300 million sponsorship deal with the company. League rules bar teams and owners from funneling money to players outside the cap.
Ballmer and the Clippers have denied any wrongdoing. Ballmer has said he was a victim of fraud by Aspiration’s founders and had no role in the Leonard endorsement deal. Aspiration co-founder Joseph Sanberg was sentenced Monday to 14 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of wire fraud in a related case.
Silver said neither the Pulitzer Prize that Torre’s reporting won nor the sentencing should shape the outcome.
“I wouldn’t be doing my job if ultimately I issued a determination based on perception,” Silver said. “My job is to follow the facts.”
The law firm running the investigation, Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, will deliver its findings to Silver, who will decide on discipline.
“I think we are close to the point now where I think we need to wrap this up, because you also need finality,” Silver said. “The team has to understand what situation they are going to be operating under and so do the other 29 teams."
Jun 3, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Toronto Blue Jays left fielder Nathan Lukes (38) reacts after hitting a home run against the Atlanta Braves during the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Blue Jays 3 Braves 7
We got more than 2 runs!!!!
They should have scored a few runs in the first inning. It started single (Nathan Lukes), single (Yohendrick Piñango) and walk (Vladimir Guerrero). The walk included Vlad challenging a called strike, which, the review showed, was easily a strike. I hate blowing a challenge in the first inning.
Anyway, I digress…..
Bases loaded, no outs, you start to hope for a big inning.
Nope.
Jesús Sánchez hit into a double play (scoring a run) and Ernie Clement struck out.
We got the other run in the third, Lukes homered.
Patrick Corbin wasn’t good. He gave up a run in the second and three more in the third (Mauricio Dubón homered). He ended up allowing four earned in five inning.
Yariel Rodríguez pitched a quick sixth and got one out in the seventh, with a walk. Adam Macko came in and gave up a single and a home run, before getting out of the inning.
Hayden Juenger had a 1, 2, 3 eighth.
Brandon Valenzuela crushed a home run in the ninth, 399 feet. But that was it for ninth inning fun.
I thought the Braves organist deserved points for playing ‘if I only had a brain’ when Myles Straw came to bat in the ninth.
We had 8 hits and 3 walks. But an 0 for 4 with RISP didn’t help (though it says a lot that we only had four runners in scoring position).
Joe did a rant about the Jays not catching a popup, saying it would the little things that were killing them. I respectfully object. They are losing because they aren’t scoring, But your mileage may vary.
Jays of the Day? Well, there wasn’t any. Lukes had the high mark at 0.07 WPA.
Other Award: Corbin (-0.24), Sánchez (-0.12), and Macko (-0.9).
Tomorrow we have game three of this series. And it is a bullpen day, while the Braves will start Chris Sale (8-3, 2.01). That should be fun.
From drama of the heart to drama on the hardcourt.
Actor and diehard Knicks fan Jerry O’Connell opened up to Page Six about the roller coaster of emotions leading to him attending Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday night in San Antonio.
“I’ve had such a week,” O’Connell, the former “Jerry Maguire” actor, told Page Six while on the court at Frost Bank Arena. “First of all, that ‘Summer House’ reunion and the bombshells that people who have not been intimate with each other for years and years and now we’re here at Game 1.”
Bravo AND Knicks superfan Jerry O'Connell went from watching the "Summer House" reunion part 2 to NBA Finals Game 1 pic.twitter.com/xbLaqw5qZu
O’Connell, 52, loves the orange and blue, often having fun with members of Barstool Sports about the team’s rise to the premier franchise in the Eastern Conference.
With his favorite team in the NBA Finals for the first time in 27 years, there apparently was no way he would be missing this moment — especially after the conference finals.
O’Connell admitted to turning off the television with the Knicks trailing the Cavaliers by 22 points in Game 1 before one of the most legendary comebacks in franchise history.
“I need to admit something… I turned off @nyknicks last night in the 4th quarter,” he posted on May 20.
“I will never miss another minute of this post season. I am ashamed.”
Kyle Cooke (r) during the “Summer House” reunion show. Clifton Prescod/Bravo via Getty Images
O’Connell spent the early hours of Wednesday seeing the sights in the region, posting regularly to his X account before the scheduled 8:30 p.m. ET tip-off.
His trip to Texas came one day after he clearly enjoyed the second part of the emotional “Summer House” Season 10 reunion on Tuesday night.
Exes Kyle Cooke and Amanda Batula told the world that they did not have sex once during their four-plus-year marriage. They announced in January that they would be splitting.
“Kyle and I were bickering. I didn’t go to New Year’s with him, I spent it by myself,” Batula said during the show, according to Page Six. “He spent it deejaying at a restaurant. I woke up the next morning, I saw he was at a hotel in Hoboken. I’m going into 2026 wanting to have a fresh start and he’s doing the same s–t that he was doing that was pissing me off before.”
Jun 3, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Mauricio Dubón (14) reacts with first baseman Matt Olson (28) after hitting a three run home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
In a game that seemed to speed up within each inning, the Atlanta Braves secured a 7-3 win against the Toronto Blue Jays to secure the three-game mid-week series.
Looking at the highlight of the night first, Mauricio Dubón’s three-run homer is what forced a stop to Patrick Corbin and the Blue Jays.
After a grounded double-play by Jays’ Jesús Sánchez to kick the game off, Ha-Seong Kim hit an RBI single in the bottom of the second to bring in Eli White for the Braves’ first run of the night. Blue Jays Nathan Lukes answered back in the top of the third with a homer off Grant Holmes’ slider (2-0).
That put Atlanta on notice and brought Dubón out for his go-ahead three-run home run to drive in Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies for a two-run lead (4-2) against Toronto.
Mauricio Dubón was a bit under the weather Tuesday. Back in the lineup Wednesday. Now 11-for-25 with two outs and runners in scoring position with 20 RBIs this season. pic.twitter.com/HFS9Yw1k4S
The Blue Jays stayed stuck for the remainder of the game as Corbin tried to get settled in his five innings, while keeping his team in the contest, but it only amounted to one strikeout and four earned runs off of the six hits and two walks he gave up.
Tonight was Corbin’s 22nd career start and 24th total appearance against the Braves, and the loss marked his 12-game losing streak against the team dating back to September 2019.
The story didn’t end there, however. The Braves decided they wanted to extend their stretch towards the end, so Ozzie Albies hit a three-run homer of his own in the bottom of the seventh to drive in Dominic Smith and Olson for a five-run lead, 7-2.
Fun fact: all of the Braves’ runs were scored with two outs against them.
The Blue Jays not only could get a runner in scoring position, but also couldn’t get a hit until a single from Ernie Clement in the eighth, yet it didn’t amount to a productive result until the ninth, where Brandon Valenzuela homered in an attempt to climb back in contention (7-3).
That would be the final run of the night before Tyler Kinley closed out with a string of sliders to strike out Blue Jays’ Myles Straw and seal the win.
As for Holmes, he ran into a bit of trouble with bases loaded and no outs in the top of the first inning, but ended with a quality start (6 IP/ 2 ER/ 5 H/ 2 BB/ 4 K) on 89 pitches to keep the Braves’ defense in the game and hold the Blue Jays scoreless for the remainder of his outing.
Tomorrow, the Braves look to close out their series finale with Chris Sale on the mound. Tune in at 7:15 p.m. EDT to see if the Braves pick up where they left off with the left-handed ace to back them up.
Jalen Brunson’s anger toward referee Scott Foster may have been equivalent to the size of Texas.
The Knicks star was irate with the official with just under six minutes to play in the first half during the Knicks’ 105-95 Game 1 win in the NBA Finals on Wednesday night after no call was made when Spurs big man Luke Kornet landed on the ankle of Brunson after the guard fell to the ground driving to the hoop.
Brunson, who finished with 30 points, went right up to Foster and yelled in his direction after a timeout was called.
Another member of the Knicks quickly came and moved Brunson away, while Foster didn’t seem to pay any mind to the outburst and walked in the other direction.
“We were all bitching too much at the officials. Rick Brunson was great,” head coach Mike Brown said after the Knicks’ win. “He told me to shut the hell up, and he told the rest of the team to be quiet and leave the officials alone. It was great of him because we were all kind of losing our minds.”
The Knicks were trailing 37-32 at the time it occurred, and it came after Brunson seemed to be in some discomfort for the second time in the game.
Kornet very clearly landed on Brunson’s ankle and he was quick to react in pain.
Brunson grabbed at his ankle while on the ground and then was seen limping back to the Knicks bench during the timeout.
Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) stares down referee Scott Foster (l.) during the second quarter of Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Spurs on June 3, 2026. ABCThe Spurs’ Luke Kornet (7) steps on the ankle of Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) during the second quarter of Game 1 of the NBA Finals on June 3, 2026. ABC
He did remain in the game.
Earlier in the game, Brunson had to be subbed out after he was knocked into by Harrison Barnes, who seemed to hit Brunson’s right knee.
Mikal Bridges came into the game with 1:27 left in the first quarter, but Brunson returned to the game with roughly eight minutes left in the second quarter.
The Knicks' Celebrity Row staples traveled to San Antonio for Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals against the Spurs Wednesday night, of course.
The Knicks’ Celebrity Row staples traveled to San Antonio for Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals against the Spurs on Wednesday night.
Tracy Morgan, Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, Timothée Chalamet and Henrik Lundqvist were all spotted at Frost Bank Center for the rematch of the 1999 finals, a 4-1 series win by the Spurs.
Those diehards were decked out in blue and orange as their team entered Game 1 as road underdogs.
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) June 4, 2026
Jerry O’Connell, who was court side in a Knicks polo, told Page Six he was going through it after the “Summer House” reunion part 2 on Tuesday.
The Knicks are coming off a nine-day break after winning 11 straight games — completing series sweeps of the Sixers and Cavaliers, respectively.
Ben Stiller (L) entering Frost Bank Center for Game 1 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs on June 3, 2026. XNew York Post Sports
New York star guard Jalen Brunson and his teammates have praised Knicks fans for their support on the road throughout the playoffs.
Back in New York, fans gathered for a watch party outside of Madison Square Garden after the NYPD lifted a ban on the outdoor party following the Eastern Conference finals celebration.
Earlier this week, the MTA also painted the Madison Square Garden subway stop orange and blue.
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) June 3, 2026
Wouldn't miss it! Knicks superfan Timothée Chalamet has touched down at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, TX for NBA Finals Game 1 pic.twitter.com/B7ybplSDNG
The Athletic, a subsidiary of the New York Times, reported that Trump will attend the game on June 3 barring any changes to the president's schedule – citing anonymous league sources. The Post, citing anonymous sources, reported that security walkthroughs were held by MSG in preparation for the potential visit.
USA TODAY has reached out to the White House, Madison Square Garden, the NBA and the Knicks for comment.
Trump had previously suggested that he would go to one of the games at the Garden during a cabinet meeting at the White House on May 27, saying that Knicks owner Jim Dolan was among those who invited him.
"I think I'll be going to one of the games," Trump said "I was invited by numerous people and Jim and I think I'll be going." A Garden spokesperson previously told the USA TODAY Network in a statement that "the President of the United States — no matter who is in office — is always welcome at all our venues."
The Knicks are making their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. The run has largely united the basketball-mad city, though Trump's presence in his hometown's most prominent arena could prove divisive in deep-blue Gotham.
The Yankees offense never kicked into high gear and Gerrit Cole's white-hot start to life back on the mound ended in a 5-4 loss to the Cleveland Guardians at Yankee Stadium.
New York drops to 36-25, and is now a full game (1.0) back of the Tampa Bay Rays for the AL East division lead.
Here are the takeaways...
-Team captain and star outfielder Aaron Judge missed his second straight game due to a nagging rib injury. He is still considered day-to-day for the time being, with the organization awaiting further clarity on the severity of the issue.
-Yankees middle infield duo Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Jose Caballero dealt the only damage to Guardians righty Gavin Williams with a solo shot for each. Williams posted a strong start despite those two runs allowed, striking out six Yankees while allowing just four hits and one walk through 5.1 innings.
-Yanks ace Gerrit Cole, who hadn't given up an earned run through his first two stellar starts back from his lengthy absence due to injury, finally looked mortal on the mound. He was tagged for four earned runs, all of which came on three home runs, across 5.1 innings. He struck out just two Cleveland batters and allowed six hits before Boone called on trusty reliever Fernando Cruz, who answered the bell by retiring all four batters he faced tonight, striking out three.
-Tim Hill dug a deeper hole for the Yankees in the top of the eighth, allowing one run on two hits before Paul Blackburn relieved him to limit the damage and keep the score 5-3.
-Despite a Paul Goldschmidt leadoff double in the bottom of the ninth, eventually coming around to score and cut the lead to 5-4, standout Cleveland closer Cade Smith handled the heart of the Yankees batting order and picked up his 21st save of the season.
Game MVP: José Ramírez
J-Ram was 3-for-4 with a homer tonight, showcasing to the New York crowd why he'll very likely wind up in Cooperstown one day.
The Yankees close out their three-game series against the Guardians tomorrow afternoon, with first pitch set for 1:35 pm. Carlos Rodón (3.32 ERA) is slated to make his fifth start of the season for New York, squaring off against Cleveland righty Slade Cecconi (5.25 ERA).
Headed into the weekend, the Bronx Bombers will extend their home stand with another three-game set, this time against the archrival Boston Red Sox.
