Two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference face off at Spectrum Center tonight as the Charlotte Hornets host the New York Knicks.
Charlotte has been white-hot from beyond the arc, and my Knicks vs. Hornets predictions expect the home team to hit treys and rack up points with ease.
Here are my best free NBA picks for Thursday, March 26.
Knicks vs Hornets prediction
Knicks vs Hornets best bet: Hornets team total Over 111.5 (-115)
The Charlotte Hornets offense has been electric for months, especially over its last 10 games. In that span, Charlotte sports the fifth-best offensive rating at 122, and the 12th-highest scoring average at 118.3.
The buzz around Charlotte has been even louder in front of the faithful at Spectrum Center. The Hornets have scored 112+ points in six straighthome games.
No team has averaged more points than Charlotte’s healthy 126.8 across their last six at home. That number climbs to 131 across their last four during the current home stand.
Charlotte’s 3-point shooting has been lights-out all season long, but it’s been even more prolific as of late. Over the last 10 games, Charlotte ranks first in 3-point attempts (46.4), first in 3-pointers made (18.7) and first in 3-point percentage (40.3%).
In that span, the New York Knicks have surrendered the 10th-most 3-point attempts (39.2), 10th-best 3-point percentage (37.5) and sixth-most 3-pointers made (14.7).
The Hornets’ plethora of shooters should have a field day against a struggling Knicks perimeter defense, and I expect the home team to build on the record-setting 26 triples it hit on Tuesday while clearing this modest team point total.
Knicks vs Hornets same-game parlay
Charlotte is playing some great basketball, and the Hornets have a 3-point mismatch and home court advantage. I'm rocking with the home team to win a close one.
LaMelo Ball has knocked down 4.5 triples per game on 39.5% shooting across his last 10 appearances, hitting 5+ four times and 4+ eight times. He's canned 13 treys over his last two games, and he should have no problem knocking down five more in tonight's favorable matchup.
Knicks vs Hornets SGP
Hornets team total Over 111.5
Hornets -1
LaMelo Ball Over 4.5 3-pointers
Our "from downtown" SGP: Buzz city blitz
Kon Knueppel leads the Association in total 3-pointers at 247, and he’s shattered the rookie record in that category. The Duke product has splashed 4+ 3-pointers in six of his last 10 games while shooting 43.8% from long range.
Brandon Miller is averaging 3.1 triples per game this season, but he’s knocked down 4.3 per game across his last four while hitting 4+ three times in that span.
Coby White has nailed 3+ triples in three of his last four games, while averaging 3.8 makes from beyond the arc.
Knicks vs Hornets SGP
LaMelo Ball Over 4.5 3-pointers
Kon Knueppel Over 3.5 3-pointers
Brandon Miller Over 3.5 3-pointers
Coby White Over 2.5 3-pointers
Knicks vs Hornets odds
Spread: New York +1 (-115) | Charlotte -1 (-105)
Moneyline: New York -105 | Charlotte -115
Over/Under: Over 223.5 (-110) | Under 223.5 (-110)
Knicks vs Hornets betting trend to know
The Hornets have covered the spread in 35 of their last 50 games (+19.60 Units / 36% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Hornets.
How to watch Knicks vs Hornets
Location
Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC
Date
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
MSG SN, FDSN Southeast
Knicks vs Hornets latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
DALLAS, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 17: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Louisville Cardinals looks to drive in the first half during NCAA basketball game between University of Louisville and Southern Methodist University at Moody Coliseum on February 17, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Aric Becker/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images
Most fans would be devastated to not land one of the top four guys in this draft class, and for good reason. While the top of the draft is loaded, the overall depth of the class is often overlooked. Several prospects in this draft have All-Star potential, one being Mikel Brown Jr. If Utah lands outside the top four—a 57.9% probability with the Jazz currently holding the fifth-best odds—Mikel Brown Jr. could quickly become a top target. Labeling him as simply a consolation prize wouldn’t be giving his talent and skillset enough credit.
Brown’s freshman season has been far from perfect, but he has shown elite potential and a high ceiling. He has dealt with recurring lower back issues and production inconsistency but still has shown the tools to become an elite NBA guard. His positional size, playmaking, and shot-making versatility have drawn comparisons to Immanuel Quickley, Darius Garland, and even flashes of Damian Lillard.
DALLAS, TEXAS – FEBRUARY 17: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Louisville Cardinals looks to drive in the first half during NCAA basketball game between University of Louisville and Southern Methodist University at Moody Coliseum on February 17, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Aric Becker/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images
Team: University of Louisville, Cardinals
Position: Point guard/Shooting guard
Bio: 6’5”, 190 lbs | Age: 19 | Wingspan: 6’7.5″
Stats: 18.2 PPG | 3.3 RPG | 4.7 APG | 1.2 SPG
Splits: 41% FG | 34.4% 3PT | 84.4% FT
Accolades: All-ACC Third Team, All-Rookie Team | 45-point ACC freshman record
Strengths
Mikel Brown Jr. has many translatable skills to the NBA, most notably his shooting. Brown has every 3-point shot in his repertoire, comfortable off the catch, pull-ups, and step-backs. He already operates well beyond NBA range, making him especially dangerous against drop coverage. His tight handle allows him to create space in isolation and out of pick-and-roll.
When he’s hot, he’s virtually unstoppable, as shown in his 45-point performance against NC State.
He plays with a level of comfort and control that is unusual for a freshman point guard. He consistently dictates the pace of a game, and is rarely rushed or sped up, showing he can run an offense and command its flow. Brown projects as a primary on-ball creator, operating with a usage rate of 30.6%, comparable to Anthony Edwards’ 30.4% usage rate with Georgia, highlighting his ability to handle a star-level offensive burden.
Additionally, his playmaking is another NBA-ready skill. His 31.9% assist rate reflects high-level processing and decision-making in pick-and-roll. He has 360-degree vision with the ability to make complex reads and passes. He regularly threads tight passing windows and consistently creates open looks for his teammates.
Finally, Brown has good defensive instincts. His active hands and understanding of passing lanes help him generate steals. His height and length suggest defensive upside as he grows into his body and becomes more disciplined. He probably isn’t going to be a lead point of attack defender, but his instincts and length give him disruptive off-ball potential.
Concerns
So far, the way I’ve described him, he probably sounds like a lock for the top three. However, there are some limitations that make draft scouts a little skeptical.
One concern is a lower-back injury, which has been recurring throughout his freshman season. He has missed 10 regular season games, the entire ACC tournament, and the two March Madness games that Louisville played in, all because of this back injury. While there isn’t any structural damage to his back, there have been multiple flare-ups and re-aggravations, making draft scouts wonder if this problem can go away, or if this injury will haunt him throughout his career.
Additionally, Brown’s shooting consistency has varied throughout the season, only shooting 41% from the field and 34% from distance. He has a healthy appetite for difficult, contested jump shots early in possessions, which hurts his efficiency. He likes to show off his impressive range, which looks dynamic when his shot is falling, and questionable when it’s not.
Critics are also quick to point out Brown’s athleticism. While he’s still a good athlete with a solid first step, his explosiveness doesn’t quite reach the elite level when comparing him to Darryn Peterson or Kingston Flemings. His limited verticality forces him to rely more on finesse rather than force when finishing at the rim. It also makes it harder to create advantages against physical defenders without the help of ball screens, limiting his ability to pressure the rim.
Brown’s frame also remains a concern. While he stands at 6’5”, he has a thin frame and only weighs 190 lbs. This gives him defensive limitations when guarding stronger players, and trouble finishing through contact at the rim.
To be fair, he is finishing 65% of his shots at the rim, which is very strong for a guard, suggesting his touch and craft can compensate for his lack of elite explosiveness. However, he only takes
Verdict
If the Jazz miss out on one of the top four picks this summer, Mikel Brown Jr. should be near the top of their list. While he lacks the guaranteed floor of Cameron Boozer or AJ Dybantsa, his upside as a 6’5” lead ball handler may be the highest of any guard in this draft not named Darryn Peterson.
Critics bring up his 41% field goal percentage and 34.4% from distance, but don’t forget that Keyonte George shot 37.6% FG / 33.8% 3PT at Baylor. Utah’s player development system with Will Hardy knows how to work with high-skill but low-efficiency guards. If Keyonte George has taught us anything, it’s that these issues can be addressed with the right work ethic.
Brown would be a valuable addition to this Jazz team. He provides spacing, playmaking, and more on-ball shot creation. His shooting, pick-and-roll processing, and positional size would give the Jazz even more offensive fire power.
In the immediate future, Brown likely projects as a high-level combo guard off the bench, capable of torching second units. However, if his lateral quickness allows him to defend NBA-level 2-guards, he could eventually form a lethal, dual-playmaker backcourt alongside Keyonte George.
Five years from now, we may look back and realize that despite the back injuries and concerns with his frame, Mikel Brown Jr. was the backcourt prize of 2026. He is a swing for the fences that fits Utah’s timeline perfectly.
LSU has not made the Men's NCAA Tournament since Wade's final season in Baton Rouge in 2022, though Wade did not coach the Tigers in that game. Since then, the Tigers have not had the same level of success seen under Wade, as the program has had three losing seasons under McMahon, including this past season, when they finished 15-17 overall.
The rumor of Wade's potential return has been circulating for some time. It gained some traction on Wednesday when reports emerged that LSU was working on hiring McNeese athletic director Heath Schroyer for a senior administrator position in Baton Rouge that would oversee the Tigers' men's basketball program. Schroyer hired Wade at McNeese before the 2023-24 season.
Here's the latest on Wade returning to LSU. Follow for live updates:
Will Wade live updates: LSU basketball makes coaching change
This story will be updated live
Will Wade 'has discussed' assistant coaching staff at LSU
A former SEC head coach tells USA TODAY Sports' John Brice that Wade’s talks with LSU are advanced enough that Wade has discussed his projected staff at LSU.
LSU reportedly 'expected' to hire Will Wade today
CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein reports on Thursday that LSU is expected to "part ways" with current Tigers coach Matt McMahon today, and officially hire Wade to take over the program.
Why did Will Wade leave LSU the first time
Wade was fired for cause by LSU in 2022 after the NCAA accused him of committing multiple Level I and Level II violations, including "lack of institutional control." The FBI was also involved in investigations, with Wade facing allegations of paying recruits in the pre-NIL era of college athletics.
"After receiving the Notice earlier this week, we took several days to fully evaluate it and engage in deliberate and thoughtful discussions about our next steps," the statement titled to the "LSU Community" read from then LSU President William Tate and athletics director Scott Woodward in 2022. "We can no longer subject our University, Department of Athletics, and—most importantly—our student-athletes, to this taxing and already-lengthy process without taking action."
In 2023, Wade was assessed a two-year show-cause order and a 10-game suspension for his first season at McNeese State. The NCAA's 2022 findings against Wade weren't the first time they caught him violating NCAA guidelines and policies during his tenure with the Tigers, though.
Will Wade buyout at NC State if Wolfpack coach leaves
According to Wade's contract, obtained by the USA TODAY Network, he would owe NC State $5 million if he were to leave the Wolfpack for another job, like LSU, before the end of his contract. That payout drops to $3 million on April 2.
There is a total of $14,756,250 million left across the remaining five years of Wade's contract with NC State, according to his contract that was obtained by the USA TODAY Network. Here is his year-by-year base salary, beginning in 2027:
Over the past few seasons, one major concern with the Knicks’ contention case has been their lack of depth. It usually doesn’t take more than an eight or nine-man rotation to make a successful playoff run, but injuries and slumps inevitably require teams to look further down their bench to fill those spots.
New York has historically struggled with doing so, in 2024 due to a crazy barrage of injuries, and in 2025 due to roster limitations. But coming down the stretch of this regular season, it finally looks like the Knicks have the depth required to sustain a 16-win marathon.
How did the Knicks build out a deep rotation despite limited cap flexibility and assets going towards high-ticket acquisitions? And will it be enough come playoff time?
Their bench does feature two mainstays who have been reliable ever since the Knicks tightened their rotation: Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride. Robinson is the longest-tenured Knick on the roster and has been pivotal in the entirety of their rebuild.
McBride was a development project drafted in 2021 that couldn’t seem to find his stride in the big leagues until New York’s trade for OG Anunoby opened up a bench guard role. McBride took full advantage, showcasing his knockdown shooting and suffocating defense.
It’s arguable his ascension helped pave the way for the Karl-Anthony Towns trade, which cost the Knicks another guard. There likely aren’t many regrets, given McBride’s been an invaluable reserve and fill-in starter on one of the most attractive contracts in the league.
The rest of the bench is where this front office can really flex the job they’ve done in just a short period of time. Two of the Knicks backup guards -- Landry Shamet and Jordan Clarkson -- were picked up on veteran’s minimum deals.
Nothing points to being a true contender and player in the free agent market like securing a dependable three-and-D guard and recent Sixth Man of the Year at a price most teams could’ve outbid. Both were looking for an opportunity to contribute to a championship team and they’ve done so thus far.
Shamet’s been a lethal floor spacer, averaging 10 points a game on 39 percent shooting from three, and coming up huge with some big performances in timely games. Clarkson has had to fight his way back into the rotation, but has done so with his improved defense and ability to constantly attack the paint.
New York is so packed with reliable guards, one of those guys will likely be a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency option rather than a mainstay come the playoffs. They also picked up a specialist big in Jeremy Sochan off waivers, giving them a go-to defender when they need one at minimal cost.
These were impressive signing, but like with McBride, some of this front office’s biggest returns have come from the Draft. Facing financial and roster constraints entering the 2024 NBA Draft, the Knicks came away with a haul that would help define this season.
While a couple picks are still working their way into the rotation, Tyler Kolek and Ariel Hukporti have all but established themselves as capable players at the pro level. The Knicks took Kolek 34th overall and Hukporti 58th, but their impacts far exceed their draft spots.
If it weren’t for this basket of veteran guards ahead of him, Kolek would see nightly appearances thanks to his impressive playmaking ability. He’s also stepped up his defense and shooting, which were on display when he was the lead backup guard during the Knicks NBA Cup Championship run.
Hukporti hasn’t had as many opportunities, but in spurts has proven to be a solid roll man and interior defender, with some playmaking upside to boot. Having two second-year, second-round guys be ready to contribute in a postseason scenario is a tremendous luxury and testament to the front office’s scouting.
Jan 9, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; New York Knicks forward Mohamed Diawara (51) against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center. / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
But they may have outdid themselves in the 2025 Draft, using their lone selection at the 51st pick to take Mohamed Diawara, a young athletic wing who was meant to take a couple years in Westchester to bloom. It turns out that wouldn’t be necessary, as the neophyte has emerged as a legitimate rotation piece with his shooting, off-dribble game, and defense.
Finally, the Knicks were able to flip one of their recent mistakes, Guerschon Yabusele, into one of their biggest windfalls. They negotiated for the struggling big man to drop his second-year player option, allowing for a deal ahead of the deadline that helped them land Jose Alvarado.
Alvarado is a pesky and fiery floor general, whose inclusion has already provided a much-needed dose of energy and locker room aura. He’s already put up some monster nights and will certainly be a go-to reserve come the playoffs.
Put this all together, and this front office managed to leverage advanced scouting and a winning culture to cultivate a championship bench in two years despite the odds.
Robinson, McBride, Alvarado and Shamet make for a strong core four, and you’d need to go through Clarkson, Diawara, Kolek, Hukporti and Sochan before getting to somebody you’re really afraid of throwing in for a few minutes.
The Knicks are more prepared than ever to make a playoff push -- will they be able to pull it off?
The Florida Panthers will wrap up this week’s two-game homestand on Thursday night in Sunrise.
After picking up a 5-4 shootout win over the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday, Florida will play home game No. 37 of 41 when they host the Minnesota Wild at Amerant Bank Arena.
With the season winding down, the Panthers and their fans are keeping a close eye on the standings.
Unfortunately, it’s not the same kind of experience that Cats fans have been able to enjoy over the past several years.
This season the Panthers will see their franchise-record seven-year playoff streak come to an end, but with Florida’s 2026 first-round pick being top-10 protected, the standings-watch is still happening.
Entering play Thursday, the Panthers remain among the NHL’s bottom-10 teams.
Florida holds a 35-32-3 record, good for 73 points, which slots them as the ninth-lowest point total in the NHL. And for what it’s worth, of the eight teams below Florida, only one of them (the New York Rangers) are in the Eastern Conference.
When they hit the ice on Thursday, the Panthers will be missing several regulars from their lineup.
In addition to the long-injured Sasha Barkov, Jonah Gadjovich and Cole Schwindt, Florida will be without Sam Reinhart, Brad Marchand, Anton Lundell, Niko Mikkola, Uvis Balinskis, and A.J. Greer, who will be serving the second game of a three-game suspension.
Minnesota, meanwhile, is comfortably holding on to third place in the Central Division. They have a 12-point edge over fourth-place Utah, so barring anything crazy, the Wild will be a divisional playoff team.
Lately it’s been a bit of a mixed bag for the Wild, though.
Over the past two weeks, Minnesota has lost five of seven, with four of those five defeats coming against teams that aren’t in a playoff position.
Here are the Panthers projected lines and pairings for Thursday’s meeting with Minnesota:
Photo caption: Jan 24, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Florida Panthers center Sam Bennett (9) is met by Minnesota Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes (43) at the blue line in the third period at Grand Casino Arena. (Matt Blewett-Imagn Images)
DENVER , CO - MARCH 25: Jamal Murray (27) of the Denver Nuggets works as Naji Marshall (13) of the Dallas Mavericks defends during the second quarter at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post) | Denver Post via Getty Images
The Dallas Mavericks hit the road to take on the Denver Nuggets in a late game Wednesday night. Dallas had success against Denver with two head-to-head wins in December, but then lost the previous matchup in January, as well this one, 142-135.
Let’s get to the grades!
Naji Marshall: B+
22 PTS / 4 REB / 3 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 30 MIN
Marshall was ripping in the early going, but really came back down to earth hard as the night wore on. He finished 7-for-17 and only made a single three-pointer on six attempts. He was the Mavs’ second leading scorer and went 7-for-8 from the free throw line.
Max Christie: C+
9 PTS / 1 REB / 2 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 32 MIN
Christie did very well for himself, but just didn’t quite do it at a high volume. He connected on 3-for-5 from the floor (all from deep) for a hot shooting night, but didn’t get an abundance of touches to really see what his night could have been. For the amount of minutes played, he didn’t offer much in spite of a hot hand.
Cooper Flagg: A-
26 PTS / 8 REB / 7 AST / 2 STL / 1 BLK – 36 MIN
Flagg didn’t have one of his best nights for nearly three quarters, but yet again insisted on contributing a little bit of everything. Flagg stayed the course and before you knew it, he had a great game with his 1-for-4 three-point shooting the only real knock to speak of. He hit 10-for-18 overall.
P.J. Washington: A-
19 PTS / 15 REB / 1 AST / 0 STL / 1 BLK – 31 MIN
Washington did not look spectacular for much of the game and he did not shoot particularly well until later in the evening (8-for-15 overall), yet he notched a double-double just as the fourth quarter got underway and had a handful of nice plays in the final twelve minutes. His 15 rebounds were a season high. He ultimately fouled out with seconds remaining, but otherwise managed a nice game when it was all said and done.
Dwight Powell: B
7 PTS / 4 REB / 0 AST / 1 STL / 1 BLK – 16 MIN
Powell gave the Mavs largely what could be expected, especially in so few minutes. The highlight of his night was the ability to draw fouls and convert well enough on his free throws (5-for-7), but some of the responsibility for Nikola Jokic’s monster night falls on him as well.
Tyler Smith: A-
8 PTS / 1 REB / 0 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 8 MIN
Tyler Smith, you ask? Smith is not a familiar name to Mavs’ fans, but in game 73 of the season, he doesn’t have many more chances to be featured. In very few minutes, Smith had himself a nice night. 3-for-5 from the floor including 2-for-4 from deep is certainly not bad for under eight minutes of play.
Khris Middleton: B+
11 PTS / 3 REB / 5 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 18 MIN
Middleton had a quietly solid game. He hit his shots (4-for-8), shared the ball and maximized relatively few minutes. He had only a single turnover, for a nice to assist-to-turnover ratio.
Final Thoughts
This game was just plain strange. Dallas did what they have become so good at doing – falling behind only to make a big run to officially qualify the game for clutch status. After drawing to within a point with only minutes remaining, Dallas came unraveled quickly. To top things off, they allowed Jamal Murray to drop 53 points and watched Nikola Jokic come a single assist shy of the fourth 20/20/20 game in the history of the NBA.
I invite you to follow me @_80MPH on X, and check back often at Mavs Moneyball for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks.
Paris Saint-Germain’s visit to Lens, potentially a crucial encounter in the Ligue 1 title race, has been postponed to give PSG more time to prepare for their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool.
The match between the top two teams in France’s top division – PSG lead Lens by a point – was scheduled for 11 April but will now take place on 13 May, three days before the final round of fixtures.
The Ottawa Senators have been one of hockey’s best teams for nearly two months, vaulting into the East's second and final wild-card spot.
They try to make it five straight wins with a three-game regular-season sweep of the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday, March 26.
My Penguins vs. Senators predictions and NHL picks have Ottawa taking advantage of the short-handed visitors to stay red hot.
Penguins vs Senators prediction
Penguins vs Senators best bet: Senators moneyline (-145)
Since January 25, the Ottawa Senators are 15-3-2, earning the league's second-most points in that span.
They’re a Top-8 scoring team, but the real difference has come in net, where they have a minuscule 2.15 goals against average, by far the best in the NHL.
Now they get the Pittsburgh Penguins, who have been outscored 11-3 in their last two games.
Ottawa's handled Pittsburgh this season, with a 4-0 shutout and a 3-2 win, part of this current playoff surge.
The Pens likely won't have Evgeni Malkin or Anthony Mantha, two of their five leading scorers.
Penguins vs Senators same-game parlay
Brady Tkachuk had a goal and an assist last time out in a 3-2 win over the Red Wings. He has five goals in his last 10 for Ottawa and has two goals against Pittsburgh this season.
Not a surprise that Sidney Crosby will be asked to take on a bigger offensive load with others out, and he gets a generous 2.5 shots on goal line Thursday. Sid has had at least four shots on net in four of his last six.
The Senators have hit the Moneyline in 15 of their last 20 games (+8.80 Units / 29% ROI). Find more NHL betting trends for Penguins vs. Senators.
How to watch Penguins vs Senators
Location
Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa, ON
Date
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Puck drop
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
TSN5
Penguins vs Senators latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
"It's on to the next," he said Wednesday. "If you get caught up in it and if you get satisfied, you're not going to last very long in this tournament."
This is an unfamiliar feeling for Nebraska, but a familiar foe awaits them in Thursday's Sweet 16 in Houston: Big Ten compatriot Iowa.
While Nebraska is coming off the game of the tournament, Iowa is coming off the upset of the tournament after knocking off No. 1 seed and defending national champion Florida in the second round — despite Hawkeyes star guard Bennett Stirtz going 0-for-9 from 3.
"Even though we beat a 1 seed, we can't get complacent, we got to keep getting better every day and get ready for the game (Thursday)," Stirtz said.
The winner of tonight's game advances to Saturday's Elite Eight against the winner of Houston/Illinois.
Here's what you need to know about tonight's game, including predictions.
HIT REFRESH FOR UPDATES.
Nebraska vs Iowa basketball live score
TEAMS
1H
2H
F
Iowa
—
—
—
Nebraska
—
—
—
What time is Nebraska vs Iowa Sweet 16 game today?
Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET from Houston.
What channel is Nebraska vs Iowa game on? How to watch, streaming info
Nebraska vs. Iowa will air on TBS and truTV and stream via Fubo.
Nebraska vs Iowa prediction, odds
Odds provided by BetMGM as 9:30 a.m., Thursday, March 26.
∎ Tyler Tachman, Des Moines Register: Iowa 68, Nebraska 65
The Huskers and Hawkeyes split the season series, with each of them winning on thier home floors. This game, though, clearly has a lot more at stake than just a regular season Big Ten victory. Both games were very tight, with Nebraska's win earlier this month in Lincoln going to overtime with a big Iowa comeback.
This game could really go either way, and regardless of the result, it would be historic. A win would earn Iowa its first trip to the Elite Eight since 1987. A victory for Nebraska would keep this historic March Madness run alive. Either way, the winner of this one will be just three wins away from a national title.
Blake Toppmeyer: Nebraska
Paul Myerberg: Nebraska
Jordan Mendoza: Nebraska
John Brice: Nebraska
Matt Glenesk: Nebraska
Craig Meyer: Iowa
John Leuzzi: Nebraska
Austin Curtright: Iowa
Ehsan Kassim: Nebraska
Moneyline: Nebraska (-130); Iowa (+110)
Spread: Nebraska (-1.5)
Over/under total: 131.5
Why did Pryce Sandfort transfer from Iowa to Nebraska?
Nebraska's leading scorer Pryce Sandfort transferred from Iowa to Nebraska after the Hawkeyes fired Fran McCaffery following last season.
After Iowa hired Ben McCollum, every Hawkeye scholarship player except one transferred to a new home, including Pryce to Nebraska.
"It's like a Hollywood horror story almost,” said Pryce's older brother Payton, who starred for the Hawkeyes. “You want both teams to do so well. And they're both having dream seasons. … And now they run into each other?”
“I could never not support Pryce,” he added. “I know what we’ve been through together and what we’ve dreamed about. For him to have a chance to play in the Final Four, that’s pretty special for my family. It’s just, why couldn’t it be (against) anybody else?”
Is Sam Hoiberg related to Fred Hoiberg?
Yes, he's his son. While Fred was known for his 3-point shooting, Sam is a nuisance on defense and earned votes for Big Ten's defensive player of the year, which went to Michigan center Aday Mara.
What happened when Iowa, Nebraska played this season?
The teams split their regular season series.
Iowa won 57-52 on Feb. 17
Nebraska won 84-75 in OT on March 8
Bennett Stirtz followed Ben McCollum from Drake to Iowa
The Hawkeyes' leading scorer Bennett Stirtz (19.7 ppg) transferred from Drake to Iowa, following coach Ben McCollum. The two were key to the Bulldogs' first-round upset of Missouri in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.
"Yeah, the amount of trust I have in him, and that he never lies to anyone on this team, including me. He shoots it straight," Stirtz said on his relationship with McCollum. "Even when it's tough and even when it's hard. He pushes you past your limit and I think that's where the trust comes in and he cares about you a lot and wants to make you a better person. So, yeah, he just pushes everyone on this team and honestly you can see the benefit from that and even in the wins that he's all had throughout his career, he doesn't get complacent. So that's what we need to do and continue to do is even though we beat a 1 seed, we can't get complacent, we got to keep getting better every day and get ready for the game tomorrow."
Why does Alvaro Folgueiras point to sky after 3-pointers?
Folgueiras points up at the sky after every 3-pointer he makes in honor of his dad, who died when he was 9 years old. He pointed at the sky after hitting his eventual game-winner against Florida, although he waited for the Gators' timeout after running back on defense.
Folgueiras expressed what his family means to him after the game, and mentioned his mom being a rock throughout his childhood without his dad.
"He left us with my mom and my brother in my house," he said. "It was kind of hard. We didn't really feel it as much because my mom always made sure that we didn't need anything, absolutely nothing. So, I cannot say that I grew up in an environment where I needed some things. No, that's not the truth.
"Sometimes I can say that because I feel his absence. I was just going in the court and playing to get away of my house to be with something else. But I can say that I had a happy childhood. Something that we all said, and everyone has these kinds of things on their life.
"It's that we are not victims. I never let things like that make me a victim. Not to me and not to my brother, not to my mom. We are like that because my mom was showing out every single day. Yeah."
“I don't think we ever really want to sign up to be the Cinderella story,” said Texas coach Sean Miller after beating Gonzaga in Round 2. “Because we are the University of Texas.”
The Boilers need a big game from their bigs against an opponent which thrives on interior scoring and offensive rebounding. This may also be decided by which defense with a marginal track record all season maintains a recent trajectory of improvement — and does so without fouling. Purdue's seniors are playing, and leading, better than ever, and this matchup sets up well for another Elite Eight trip.
Texas has had a luxury of facing injury-hampered teams to get to the Sweet 16. If C.J. Cox is good to go, Purdue is fine. If Cox can’t, Purdue will still dance on.
Blake Toppmeyer: Purdue
Paul Myerberg: Purdue
Jordan Mendoza: Purdue
John Brice: Purdue
Matt Glenesk: Purdue
Craig Meyer: Purdue
John Leuzzi: Purdue
Austin Curtright: Purdue
Ehsan Kassim: Texas
Moneyline: Purdue (-350); Texas (+275)
Spread: Purdue (-7.5)
Over/under total: 148.5
CJ Cox injury update: Will Purdue guard play vs Texas?
C.J. Cox suffered a knee he said was hyperextended during Sunday's second round win over Miami. He's done drills and plenty of rehab work with trainers, he said Wednesday during media availability with reporters in San Jose. He's hopeful to play, but the Boilermakers have depth behind him if he can't go, namely Gicarri Harris.
"I was obviously scared if I had torn something, because then I'm out for a long time, but thankfully I didn't," Cox said. "It still sucks, but just continuing one step at a time."
Cox said an MRI on the knee, injured Sunday against Miami, came back "pretty good." Purdue only watch film and shot free throws Monday. Cox partially participated in Tuesday's short practice, staying out of contact drills.
Jordan Pope injury update: Will Texas guard play vs Purdue?
Pope suffered a lower-leg injury in Saturday's win over Gonzaga. He said he was "hopeful" to play against the Boilermakers on Thursday.
"Jordan, he's dealing with a lower leg situation," Sean Miller said Wednesday. "We're hopeful that he can — we've given him a lot of rest since our last game, and I think he's really responding to it.
"We still had a pretty quick turnaround, all things considered, because of the distance between San Jose and Austin and traveling from Dayton to Portland and Portland back to Austin."
Why did Camden Heide transfer from Purdue to Texas? 'I'll be a Boilermaker for life'
Heide spent the previous two seasons at Purdue before entering the transfer portal and landing in Austin. So why did he leave Purdue?
“I was looking for a bigger role on a winning team,” he told IndyStar's Gregg Doyel with a smile. “Those were tough conversations, obviously, with coaches and teammates I’d known for years. Everyone didn’t see it eye-to-eye, but I just wanted people to understand I was doing what was best for me. And at the end of it, they were all supportive of me. It just goes to show the kind of people Purdue recruits. Great guys.
“I’m happy I was a Boilermaker. I’ll be a Boilermaker for life.”
Heide, who hit a key late 3-pointer in Texas' second round upset over Gonzaga, has helped provide the Longhorns with a scouting report on his former team.
"He's been big time. He knows what they do," Texas guard Tramon Mark said. "He knows a lot of what they do, so he's been helping us, coaching us up on the things that they do and just being a big-time guy for us in our scouting and everything we do in our scouting, practice. He's been big.
Braden Smith breaks Bobby Hurley NCAA assists record
Smith finished the game with 1,083 career assists in his four-year career with the Boilermakers. Purdue fans at the game gave Smith a standing ovation for the achievement.
Smith told USA TODAY Sports ahead of the tournament he was "ready to just get it over with" so he could put all of the attention toward winning Purdue's first national championship. Now with that in hand, the decorated guard can go for the two goals he had for his senior season.
"That's one of the reasons I came back, was to win and to get the record," he said. "Obviously, wanted to do it at a place that I've been for the three years prior. For me, just to be around a great bunch of guys and obviously great coaching staff, and do it with them, I think it makes it more special."
Matt Painter March Madness record: How many Sweet 16 appearances does Matt Painter have?
Matt Painter has a 26-17 career record in the NCAA Tournament. This is his 18th trip to March Madness, 17th with Purdue (he led Southern Illinois to the NCAA Tournament before becoming Purdue's coach-in-waiting).
He's led the Boilermakers to nine Sweet 16s.
Sean Miller March Madness record: How many Sweet 16 appearances does?
Texas is the third team Miller has guided to March Madness (Xavier and Arizona are the others). He has a 25-13 record combined in 14 NCAA Tournament appearances.
This is his ninth trip to the Sweet 16.
What’s furthest a First Four team has advanced in NCAA Tournament?
Texas was one of the last at-large teams to get a berth to March Madness. That meant a trip to Dayton and the First Four.
The Longhorns beat NC State on a Tramon Mark last-second shot, then beat BYU despite 35 points from AJ Dybantsa in the first round. Texas followed that up with an upset of No. 3 seed Gonzaga in Round 2 to reach the Sweet 16.
Texas needs two more wins if it wants to match the furthest a First Four team has gone in an NCAA Tournament.
VCU (2011) and UCLA (2021) reached the Final Four after starting its tournament run in the First Four.
Will Arizona fans boo Sean Miller at Sweet 16 in San Jose?
Texas-Purdue is the first game of Thursday's Sweet 16 at San Jose, with the Arizona-Arkansas game to follow. Miller coached 12 seasons at Arizona and was fired in 2021 after an NCAA probe found Miller has offered to illegally pay players and the school was forced to vacate wins from the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons.
There will be plenty of Wildcats fans in the stands in the SAP Center. So what kind of reception does Miller expect to receive Thursday?
"I would hope they would cheer for us. We're the 11 seed. If I were them, I'd want us to win," Miller said.
"But my relationship with Arizona is nothing but great. I have three sons, they all attended the University of Arizona, and each of them had an amazing experience. Two of the three, their girlfriend, potentially maybe who they end up with as their wife, also went to Arizona. I was there for 13 years, have friendships that will last a lifetime. I was treated, our family was treated incredibly well.
"... I mean, if we were to beat Purdue — I'm at Texas. That would be amazing. We're playing in the Elite Eight. But the other part of it doesn't really exist for me. I think with that emotion, you can either burn the house down or make it warmer. I look at that place and that experience as nothing but just making my house warmer. I have nothing but positive thoughts, feelings and perspectives towards that experience."
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 14: Sergei Murashov #1 of the Pittsburgh Penguins makes a save in the third period during the game against the Utah Mammoth at PPG PAINTS Arena on December 14, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The goals against numbers are starting to pile up, and there are not many cards left for the Pittsburgh Penguins to play in an effort to fix it.
The trade deadline has come and gone, so there is no move to be made to add outside defensive help.
There is also no immediate help available in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton that can offer much of a fix.
Aside from simply playing better, cutting down on the turnovers, and getting back to controlling games the way they were a couple of weeks ago, there is not much else the Penguins can do from a personnel standpoint to fix the defense. Switching defensive pairs and defensive partners might just be a case of rearranging deck chairs.
There is, however, one player in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton that could potentially fix some things, and it is prized goalie prospect Sergei Murashov.
Not only does Murashov have the talent and upside to be a franchise goalie for the next decade, just by the nature of being a goalie he is the one player that could significantly improve things in the short-term. Goalies change everything.
From a big picture standpoint, I am not entirely ready to say Stuart Skinner and Arturs Silovs have been the biggest problem over the past 10-11 games. Going into Tuesday’s game against the Colorado Avalanche, the duo had basically allowed the number of goals that had been expected of them given the chances they were facing and what the Penguins were allowing in front of them.
They were not stealing much, but they were not the biggest cause of the goals against issues.
That changed a little bit on Tuesday with Silovs against the Avalanche.
You might disagree, but not only was that game not as lopsided as the 6-2 final score would suggest, I thought the Penguins played better in that game than they did in their win on Saturday against the Winnipeg Jets. I thought it was one of their best recent games in terms of generating chances, they had a pretty significant scoring chance and expected goals advantage, and they really carried play for long stretches of time. It is not always as simple as this, and sometimes we might lean on this a little too much and oversimplify the game, but this was definitely a game where goaltending was the difference.
Scott Wedgewood made every big save the Avalanche needed him to make. And he made a lot of them. Silovs did not make a single one for the Penguins.
It is one thing when your goalies are not stealing games and just doing what is expected. You can still compete with that and win with that if the team around the goalies is playing well enough.
It is something else entirely different when goalies start losing games for you.
You also sometimes need a goalie to steal a game or two for you. That is the thing that is not happening at the moment.
That is also where Murashov could come into play, because with his upside and talent he is the type of goalie that could, in theory, steal a game for you and steal some big saves. He has the upside to potentially do more than just make the saves you are supposed to make.
Given the Penguins ongoing goalie rotation, Stuart Skinner is going to start Thursday’s game against the Ottawa Senators. If he plays well in that game, I would give him Saturday’s start against the Dallas Stars. If he plays well in that game, you go from there and maybe start shifting away from the goalie rotation and let somebody try to run with the job.
If he does not play well on Thursday, and the Penguins lose another big game in the standings by allowing four or more goals, I think that is when you start seriously having the Murashov discussion. Because what else can you do at this point other than simply play better in front of the goalies? And while that does need to happen (and while I think it can happen), you still need something more from the goalies.
As we saw on Tuesday, a bad goaltending performance can still swing a better overall performance against you.
The argument against calling up Murashov is that he is only 21 years old, has only a handful of NHL games, and that inserting a young goalie like that into a playoff race could be an extremely risky move. Especially when the team itself is struggling to defend. There is definitely a risk to it. It could go very badly in the short-term.
But there is also an upside to it, and there is SOME precedent for a goalie in this situation getting a chance late in the season for a playoff team.
Not a ton of precedent. But some.
I went back over the past 25 years and searched for goalies that fit the following parameters:
Age 24 or younger
Between 5 and 15 games played in the NHL that season and or their career as a whole
Getting their first real, meaningful playing time late in the season for a playoff team
I only found a handful of players that fit into it. But they are interesting.
In a small way, this is kind of what is happening in Montreal right now with Jacob Fowler. With the Canadiens clinging to their playoff spot and having major goaltending questions all season, the 21-year-old Fowler has started three of the team’s past seven games. He has not received the bulk of the playing time, but he is still there and might have more upside than Sam Montembeault and Jakub Dobes are currently giving them.
Late in the 2023-24 season a young Silovs received three starts in April with the Vancouver Canucks due to an injury situation, and then received the bulk of the playing time in the playoffs. He played well enough to get the Canucks into the second round.
During the 2015-16 season we have Matt Murray with the Penguins. After appearing in just 13 regular season games in his debut season, with the majority of them coming after March, he took advantage of his opportunity at the start of the playoffs and never gave it up in helping lead the Penguins to a Stanley Cup. Just as was the case with Silovs in 2023-24, injuries played a big role in this, but he made the most of his opportunity. The difference here is that 2015-16 Penguins team was an absolute monster that was steamrolling every team it played. That is not to say that Murray did not play well (because he played very well), but there was a very strong supporting cast around him. Then he helped them win another Stanley Cup the next season. This team, while exceeding expectations and perhaps still legitimately very good, is not anywhere close to that level.
In 2011-12, the Washington Capitals turned to 22-year-old Braden Holtby, with almost no NHL experience, late in the season and let him take the starting job into the playoffs. He posted a .935 save percentage (after posting a .922 mark at the end of the regular season) and had the Capitals in Game 7 of the second round, a 2-1 loss away from reaching the Eastern Conference Finals.
These are the best recent examples I can find that would fit this scenario. The previous ones have mostly worked.
If you are good enough to do it, you will.
If it does not work that well and getting beat in a couple of games ruins the player’s psyche that much that it ruins their long-term development, that is probably a concerning development for a very different reason.
I understand the argument against it.
I am also not going to argue that goaltending has been the only problem.
But it IS the one move that could be made that could make a big impact. There should come a time here very shortly where the Penguins make that call. Or at least give it serious consideration. There are not many other options.
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 25: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics celebrates during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on March 25, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
It’s just one game. However, against a fully healthy version of the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, the Celtics proved that they are ready for any challenge.
Everyone played their roles in the Celtics 119-109 win on Wednesday night. Jaylen Brown was the engine of the offense, Jayson Tatum was great playing out of the high pick-and-roll and the role players did what was needed. It was a complete team win.
Baylor Scheierman was awesome, hitting 3 three pointers, playing excellent defense on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and having a huge put back dunk.
Payton Pritchard hit four threes, Neemias Queta made shots around the rim and defended the rim, and Derrick White was doing Derrick White things on the defensive end. Everyone chipped in and everyone had a hand in helping the Celtics win the game.
This was a big test for the Celtics against the best team in the league. The Thunder have dealt with a lot of injuries this year, but on Wednesday night, they had their whole team available.
Boston has risen to the occasion all season and it was time for another test and they passed it with flying colors. Offensively, it was one of the best games, if not the very best, the C’s have played all season. They scored 70 points in the 2nd half and were doing it in all sorts of different ways.
Sure, the three ball was great; Boston shot 18/41 (44%) from three-point range. Yet it wasn’t the only way they scored. They got to the line a ton shooting 29 free throws, Brown specifically shot 14 free throws (he made 12 of them). They found a slew of different ways to score against the best defense in the NBA.
They themselves were great defensively. As Joe Mazzulla said after the game, they committed to rebounding, only giving up 4 offensive rebounds in the game.
Those are the margins that Mazzulla has stressed all year. They had 13 turnovers in the game but not giving up 2nd chance opportunities is something that has been stressed all season. When you win in those margins, it is so much easier to win a basketball game.
Jayson Tatum was also fantastic in this game. Maybe people were overreacting to a shooting slump (tell me if you have heard that one before). He had 19 points, 12 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 steals and 1 awesome block in the game and was everywhere impacting it.
Yes, it was one game and we should not overreact, but this team is ready for any challenge that is presented to them, they have shown that all season. All season they have adapted and found ways to win games. As Mazzulla likes to say, ‘whatever it takes, however long it takes.’
ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 23: CJ McCollum #3 of the Atlanta Hawks drives to the basket during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 23, 2026 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
DETROIT — In a game that had all the intensity of a playoff battle, the Atlanta Hawks outlasted the Detroit Pistons 130-129 in overtime Wednesday night at Little Caesars Arena.
Atlanta appeared in control early, jumping out to a double-digit lead behind efficient offense and ball movement. The Hawks poured in 73 first-half points, with Jalen Johnson orchestrating the attack and CJ McCollum knocking down perimeter shots. But Detroit stormed back in the third quarter, erupting for 40 points to erase the deficit and set up a dramatic finish.
The fourth quarter featured 13 lead changes and multiple clutch moments from both sides. Detroit’s Jalen Duren dominated inside, while Tobias Harris and Duncan Robinson provided timely scoring. Still, Atlanta responded each time, with Johnson continuing his all-around brilliance and McCollum delivering key buckets late.
In overtime, the Hawks made just enough plays to escape. A late defensive stand and a narrow scoring edge in the extra period sealed the win in a game that was tied eight times and never lacked drama.
Johnson led the Hawks with 27 points and 12 assists, showcasing his versatility and poise in big moments. McCollum matched him with 27 points of his own, including five 3-pointers. Nickeil Alexander-Walker added 21 points, while Dyson Daniels contributed a strong double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds.
Detroit was paced by Duren’s dominant 26-point, 14-rebound performance. Harris added 22 points, while Daniss Jenkins chipped in 19 points and 10 assists. Ausar Thompson’s efficient 18-point outing and Robinson’s five 3-pointers kept the Pistons within striking distance all night.
Ultimately, Atlanta’s depth and late-game execution proved decisive. The Hawks shot efficiently from the field and got contributions up and down the roster, including 11 points from Onyeka Okongwu off the bench.
The loss is a tough one for Detroit, which showed resilience in battling back from an early deficit but couldn’t quite finish in overtime.
For Atlanta, it’s a statement road win — one defined by resilience, offensive balance, and just enough composure when it mattered most.
INDIANAPOLIS — The narrative surrounding Bronny James, the oldest son of Lakers star LeBron James, even before the franchise drafted him in the second round of the 2024 draft was that he needed the Lakers to make his NBA dreams come to fruition.
But on Wednesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with the road-weary Lakers closing out a six-game, 11-day trip against an energetic and physical Pacers team, it was the team that needed the younger James to get over the hump in its 137-130 victory.
They needed his energy and fresh legs. His athleticism and burst during a night that was challenging for most of his teammates to sustain it — evident by the Pacers cutting the Lakers’ 29-point lead in the third to six with less than a minute in the game.
Lakers guard Bronny James gets a dunk against the Indiana Pacers during the game in Indianapolis, March 25. Getty ImagesThe confidence James played with against the Pacers was much higher to the last time he was in the rotation. AP
“To be honest, I was trying to calm myself down more than having adrenaline,” Bronny said. “Just trying to relax myself. I know what I can do as a player.”
The confidence James played with against the Pacers, a game he finished with four points on 2-of-4 shooting and a pair of steals, was much higher compared to Nov. 15, which was the last time he was in the rotation during a game the Lakers had a significant number of their normal rotation available.
Luka Dončić is all smiles after a basket against the Pacers. Getty Images
Bronny was more poised Wednesday. Calmer. More self-assured in his game and confident in his shot, even though he missed his lone 3-point attempt.
It helped him knock down a 17-foot pull-up jumper with 3:50 left in the game as the shot clock wound down to give the Lakers a 128-113 lead over the Pacers — a shot coach JJ Redick said was “big to kind of settle us” after the Pacers cut the Lakers’ lead from 29 in the third to 13 late in the fourth.
“That pull-up 2, it was a big bucket,” star guard Luka Dončić added. “It was one of the most important shots of the game. They were coming back, he hit that one. He did really great in those minutes.”
JJ Redick and Luka Doncic both mentioned this 17-foot pull-up jumper from Bronny James as a significant that that helped the Lakers in the win over the Pacers.
JJ: "I thought the Bronny's jumper was big to kind of settle us. And then we went to the Horns 3 with Luka, Austin and… pic.twitter.com/IC6JqaSYjj
Bronny credited the 18 games he’s played with the Lakers’ South Bay G League affiliate this season, where so far he’s averaged 13.3 points on 48.7% shooting in 28 minutes, for his development.
He acknowledged the importance of hitting that shot for his confidence.
“Does everything to see one go through the net, especially in that point of the game,” Bronny said. “It’s pretty big for me. I’ve hit a lot of those shots in the G, so just seeing that translate.”
Luka Doncic on Bronny James, who had 4 points and pair of steals in 13 minutes: "Definitely a big improvement from last year. I saw him in training camp, he was doing some stuff that I was really impressed with. He did a great job today. Big game for him, that pull-up 2, it was a… https://t.co/ZyLhm5Xyprpic.twitter.com/7nS6z0I1se
What also translated was Bronny’s defensive intensity, which was showcased when he stole the game and forced Pascal Siakam to turn the ball over on a post-up during the Pacers’ first possession of the second quarter.
“He’s gotten significantly better,” Redick said. “I know our staff has a lot of confidence in him. He had two really, really good defensive possessions [of] individual defense in the first half. The biggest thing with him is he’s got a lot of confidence right now. He’s having a fantastic season with South Bay. He’s been arguably the best player for like the last three or four weeks in our stay-ready games every single time.”
Redick added: “He’s got a bounce to his step right now. That just comes from developing that confidence. We saw it last year, and we’re seeing it again this year; just his growth as a player.”
Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters
Mikko Rantanen Won’t Play vs. Islanders In First Meeting Since Injuring Alexander RomanovRomanov's season-ending hit will go unaddressed as Rantanen misses the rematch. Islanders aim to avenge the injury without their star forward present.
Islanders' Alexander Romanov 'Could Be' Ready For The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs Islanders' Romanov's swift shoulder recovery fuels playoff hopes. He's progressing faster than expected, potentially returning for postseason action.
