The New York Knicks are just one win away from reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the fir...

<p>The New York Knicks are just one win away from reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000 after their 121-113 comeback victory over the Boston Celtics in Game 4 on Monday.</p><p>The Knicks erased a 14-point deficit in the third quarter en route to taking a 3-1 series lead, outscoring the Celtics 37-23 in the pivotal frame.</p><p>Only 13 teams (4%) have ever come back from a 3-1 series deficit, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamZagoria/status/1922111856811839798">Adam Zagoria of Forbes Sports</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> led the way for New York, pouring in 39 points and 12 assists in the win. He scored or assisted on 25 of his team's points in the third.</p><p>"Tough loss, tough loss. Wanted to come here and get both, and Brunson, Brunson was unreal tonight. Special player," Celtics big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a> said, per <a href="https://x.com/IanBegley/status/1922124764484681947">SNYtv's Ian Begley</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> also sang Brunson's praises.</p><p>"Honestly, do we expect anything less? ... It gets to the fourth quarter, and he's a bad, bad man," Towns told reporters, per <a href="https://x.com/FredKatz/status/1922132608739168731">Fred Katz of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>The Knicks' trio of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Towns</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a> combined for 66 points.</p><p>New York outscored Boston 64-32 in the paint and was up 15-9 in second-chance points.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> had a game-high 42 points but exited late in the fourth quarter with an apparent right leg injury. He was unable to put any weight on his leg as he was carried off the floor.</p><p>Head coach Joe Mazzulla said Tatum will receive an MRI on Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/GwashburnGlobe/status/1922117182986596530">Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/32925" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/32925">Derrick White</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> recorded 23 and 20 points, respectively.</p><p>Game 5 will be played in Boston on Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 12: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks celebrates during the game against the Boston Celtics during Round 2 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 12, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Knicks on verge of ECF after 3rd comeback win vs. Celtics

Cooper Flagg will be selected with the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.  That's perhaps ...

<p>Cooper Flagg will be selected with the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.</p><p>That's perhaps the only certainty ahead of Monday's draft lottery in Chicago, and for good reason.</p><p>Flagg, 18, had a stellar season at Duke and became one of four freshmen to win The Associated Press' men's national player of the year in the award's 64-year history.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He's a versatile 6-foot-9 talent who's both the youngest player in the draft and the most complete prospect courtesy of elite athleticism and top-tier playmaking skills. With a 7-foot-1 wingspan, Flagg could play multiple roles in the NBA and fits the profile of a franchise-altering star at the next level.</p><p>With the order of the top 14 picks to be determined Monday ahead of the first night of the draft on June 25 at Brooklyn's Barclays Center, let's look at where Flagg will most likely end up.</p><h3>Who will draft Flagg 1st overall?</h3><p>First, some math: To accurately predict which team might win the chance to select Flagg, one helpful indicator is past draft lotteries.</p><p>The NBA introduced the lottery in 1985 and overhauled it in 1990 with a weighted system to give clubs with the worst records the best chance at the No. 1 pick (25%). In 2019, the league altered the lottery again for the 2019 draft to discourage tanking, awarding the bottom-three teams the same odds (14%).</p><p>Since 1990, only one squad outside the bottom 10 has landed the top selection (Orlando Magic, 1993). And in the last 10 drafts, just twice has the first pick gone to a franchise that didn't finish among the league's bottom three.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NBA LOTTERY HISTORY (1990-2024)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nl5ej" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nl5ej/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1459" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>All of this gives us a clearer idea of where Flagg could land and which teams we should spotlight as a potential fit for the reigning national player of the year.</p><p>Here's a look at the clubs with the best odds of securing Flagg's coveted services:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Odds for 1st overall pick " aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-d0xEi" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/d0xEi/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="686" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Now, let's count down the 10 most likely lottery winners and explore how the versatile star-in-the-making could make an immediate impact with those teams.</p><h3>Flagg hopefuls</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="GRADES: BLAZERS (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Z5C4M" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Z5C4M/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Portland placed 16th in pace last season despite having a stable full of thoroughbreds. As a result of playing against set defenses, the Blazers owned the 22nd-ranked offense. Flagg's ability to grab a rebound - he ranked ninth in the ACC with 7.5 boards per game - and lead the fastbreak would unleash the likes of Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, generating easy scoring chances. Flagg also uses those situations to hunt for mismatches and get to the free-throw line, where he shoots 84%.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="GRADES: BLAZERS (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-4njyC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/4njyC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Houston's offense got stuck in the mud at times last season, particularly with shot creation from the perimeter. The Rockets ranked 22nd in drives per game (44.9) and 25th in field-goal percentage within five feet (61.5%). Having Flagg play off Alperen Sengun in the post would create opportunities for cuts and mismatches, alleviating some of the strain on Ime Udoka's offense. Flagg also has experience throwing high-low passes with 7-foot-2 Khaman Maluach at Duke, which would translate nicely next to Sengun.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: SPURS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vW6Ij" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vW6Ij/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Double-big lineups have made a resurgence after small ball dominated most of the previous decade. Pairing Flagg alongside Victor Wembanyama would be a defensive cheat code, with Flagg posting the third-best defensive rating of any high-major player in the nation, trailing the Houston duo of Mylik Wilson and Joseph Tugler. While Flagg's off-ball defense is exceptional, he'll need to improve his on-ball defense, which is solid but not at the same level.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: RAPTORS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zLG41" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zLG41/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Toronto has tried to anoint Scottie Barnes as its next star. He's a skilled player and a potential multi-time All-Star but not a No. 1 option. You can't give him the ball and ask him to get a basket at will. As a result, the Raptors placed dead last in isolation possessions at only 4.7 per game and 29th in offensive rating in clutch possessions in 2024-25. Flagg has the skill set to be that main option. He had the highest offensive rating (123) of any high-major collegiate player with a usage rate of at least 27%.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: NETS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-B99pn" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/B99pn/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Brooklyn lacked playmaking this past campaign. Yes, they had talented scorers, but the Nets were ninth in isolation frequency and 21st in assist ratio. Flagg's 26.8% assist rate is the second-highest of the projected lottery, behind Dylan Harper (27.1%), who was the only source of creation for a terrible Rutgers offense. At Duke, Flagg was the catalyst behind <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>'s top-ranked offense, with his willingness to move the ball being the foundation of the Blue Devils' system.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: 76ERS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-58UnW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/58UnW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The 76ers getting the top pick for a third time in nine years would be an interesting outcome. On the surface, Philly already has its No. 1 option, a young and dynamic ball-hander, as well as a creative wing. However, Paul George's dramatic fall from grace will unlikely improve with age. The Sixers could slot Flagg into that true 3-and-D role and bring him along slowly. He was lights out from behind the arc in the latter half of the season, knocking down 44% of his 3-point attempts in conference play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: PELICANS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CaGlw" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CaGlw/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Zion Williamson has played in just 214 games over his six NBA seasons, but his physical gifts remain tantalizing. Another franchise would surely give up valuable assets to try to rehabilitate his career. Apart from a fluke ankle sprain in the ACC tourney, Flagg hasn't dealt with any major injuries, and his medicals should be clean - a welcome change for a franchise plagued with health issues. Flagg is already a more polished defender than Williamson and could seamlessly step into that point-forward role.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: HORNETS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-mnCgQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/mnCgQ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>We've waxed poetic about Flagg's offensive capabilities, but his greatest impact would be on defense in Charlotte. The Hornets have been a bottom-10 defensive squad for four consecutive seasons: their core players struggle to consistently stay in front of people. Fortunately, Flagg's help-side defense is perhaps his most NBA-ready attribute. He ranked sixth in the ACC in shot-blocking and 12th in steals - both numbers could've been higher since he consistently blew up actions from the weak side.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: WIZARDS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CEprx" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CEprx/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The Wizards would be a unique situation for Flagg. Jordan Poole, AJ Johnson, and Bub Carrington are inconsistent but have all shown glimpses of high-level playmaking. Pairing them with a true play-finisher like Flagg could instantly transform their offense. Additionally, Alex Sarr plays like a power forward trapped in a center's body, struggling to finish around the rim despite his 7-foot size. He converted just 60% of his shots within five feet and 29.9% from 5-10 feet this campaign. Flagg, on the other hand, shoots 65.4% around the basket thanks to his elite touch and 7-foot-1 wingspan.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: JAZZ" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Uma2X" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Uma2X/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Flagg is most likely to get on-ball reps in Utah since Collin Sexton and Keyonte George aren't long-term options. Will Hardy, known for his creativity, is now free to get imaginative following his contract extension. For example, a Lauri Markkanen and Cooper Flagg pick-and-roll would be fascinating. Using Flagg's size to hunt post-up mismatches, similar to how the Indiana Pacers use Pascal Siakam, could be another interesting wrinkle.</p>

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Capture the Flagg: Where No. 1 pick might land, and how he could fit

Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter returned for the Cleveland Cavaliers' 126-104 Ga...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">,</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> returned for the Cleveland Cavaliers' 126-104 Game 3 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday.</p><p>Garland had been out with a toe injury since Game 3 of Cleveland's opening-round matchup versus the Miami Heat, while Mobley and Hunter were sidelined for the Game 2 defeat against Indiana with an ankle and a thumb issue, respectively.</p><p>Garland recorded 10 points and three assists on Saturday. Mobley had an 18-point double-double, and Hunter tallied eight points and five rebounds in the win.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cleveland had attempted to fill the void in its starting unit in Game 2 with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44986" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44986">Dean Wade</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53038" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53038">Ty Jerome</a>. The duo combined for five points on 2-of-18 shooting in the loss.</p><p>The Cavaliers entered the playoffs with the best record in the East after amassing 64 regular-season victories. They easily dispatched the Heat in a first-round sweep but dropped their first two games to the Pacers in Round 2.</p><p>Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday at 8 p.m. ET.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 2: Evan Mobley #4 and Darius Garland #10 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrate during the game against the New York Knicks on April 2, 2025 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 2025 NBAE

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Cavs get Garland, Mobley, Hunter back for pivotal Game 3 victory

Former Indiana bench boss Mike Woodson has agreed to become the Sacramento Kings' associate head ...

<p>Former Indiana bench boss Mike Woodson has agreed to become the Sacramento Kings' associate head coach, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1920247239663870274">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Wednesday.</p><p>Woodson amassed an 82-53 record in his four seasons in charge of Indiana. However, his Hoosiers failed to make the NCAA Tournament in both 2024 and 2025.</p><p>The 67-year-old announced he'd leave his alma mater in February and was eventually replaced by Darian DeVries from West Virginia.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Woodson has plenty of experience in the Association. After an 11-year playing career, he spent 22 seasons on an NBA sideline, split between the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Clippers. </p><p>Woodson was Atlanta's head coach from 2005 to 2010 and was in charge of New York from 2012 to 2014. He tallied a 315-365 record in his 680 games as an NBA head coach.</p><p>Woodson is Doug Christie's first full-time hire since he was made head coach. The Kings recently gave Christie a multi-year contract after he took over the team in December following Sacramento's dismissal of former Coach of the Year Mike Brown.</p><p>The Kings also have a new general manager after the organization parted ways with Monty McNair shortly after the season ended. McNair was replaced by longtime Knicks executive Scott Perry.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 13: Head Basketball Coach Mike Woodson of the Indiana Hoosiers reacts during the second half of a second round game of the Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament against the Oregon Ducks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 13, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Oregon Ducks won the game 72-59.

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Report: Kings hire Mike Woodson as lead assistant

The NBA announced its schedule for the second round of the postseason after the Golden State Warr...

<p>The NBA announced its schedule for the second round of the postseason after the Golden State Warriors prevailed over the Houston Rockets<strong> </strong>in Game 7 of their opening-round series.</p><p>The semifinal round began Sunday with the Indiana Pacers shocking the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers on the road in Game 1.</p><p>Here's a complete breakdown of the upcoming schedule:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Eastern Conference</h3><p><strong>Cleveland Cavaliers (1) vs. Indiana Pacers (4)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>May 4</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>May 6</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>May 9</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>May 11</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>May 13</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 15</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Boston Celtics (2) vs. New York Knicks (3)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>May 5</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>May 7</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>May 10</td>
<td>3:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>May 12</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>May 14</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 16</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 19</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Western Conference</h3><p><strong>Oklahoma City Thunder (1) vs. Denver Nuggets (4)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>May 5</td>
<td>9:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>May 7</td>
<td>9:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>May 9</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>May 11</td>
<td>3:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>May 13</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 15</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Minnesota Timberwolves (6) vs. Golden State Warriors (7)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>May 6</td>
<td>9:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>May 8</td>
<td>8:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>May 10</td>
<td>8:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>May 12</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>May 14</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 20</td>
<td>8:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>* If necessary</em></p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 25: A picture of Wilson basketballs and the playoff logo on the seats before game three of the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs between the Indiana Pacers and the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on April 25, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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NBA releases 2nd-round playoff schedule

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard took a moment to praise his former coach Gregg Popovich a...

<p>Los Angeles Clippers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> took a moment to praise his former coach Gregg Popovich after losing Saturday's Game 7 to the Denver Nuggets.</p><p>"He had a phenomenal career. He coached until pretty much he couldn't, in a sense," Leonard said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/MikeAScotto/status/1918861961741107404">Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype</a>. "It shows how much dedication he had to the game, how much he loved the game, and how much he gave to the game."</p><p>The San Antonio Spurs recently announced that Popovich would relinquish his head coaching duties but would remain with the organization as team president.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 76-year-old hadn't coached the club since suffering a stroke Nov. 2, 2024, and was replaced behind the bench by Mitch Johnson, who will succeed Popovich permanently.</p><p>Leonard was drafted 15th overall by the Indiana Pacers before a draft-night trade to the Spurs in 2011 and spent the first seven years of his career in San Antonio. Under Popovich's tutelage, Leonard captured two Defensive Player of the Year awards, two All-Star nods, two All-NBA first-team nominations, an NBA title, and a Finals MVP.</p><p>He also placed in the top three in MVP voting in 2016 and 2017.</p><p>Leonard's scoring improved every season with the Spurs until a quad injury limited him to nine games for the 2017-18 campaign. Disagreements with San Antonio over his recovery ultimately led to a falling-out, and the organization traded Leonard to the Toronto Raptors, where he won his second championship.</p><p>In 2023, Spurs fans booed Leonard while he shot free throws as a member of the Clippers. But in an unusual midgame move, Popovich grabbed the arena microphone to urge the crowd to show respect.</p><p>"I appreciate everything he's done for me. Coming into the league, he helped build my foundation and showed me how to win," Leonard said. "I want to congratulate him on his career. But also, stay healthy."</p>

PORTLAND, OR - DECEMBER 15: Kawhi Leonard #2 and Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs talk against the Portland Trail Blazers on December 15, 2014 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2014 NBAE

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Kawhi honors Popovich: 'Coached until pretty much he couldn't'

The Denver Nuggets advanced to the second round of the playoffs after routing the Los Angeles Cli...

<p>The Denver Nuggets advanced to the second round of the playoffs after routing the Los Angeles Clippers 120-101 in Saturday's Game 7.</p><p>The Nuggets set the tone with a 24-4 run to start the third quarter and extended their lead to as many as 35 points.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a> led the way with 22 and 21 points, respectively, and all five Nuggets starters scored in double figures. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> added 16 points, five assists, five rebounds, and five steals off the bench. He's the third player to ever record that statline off the bench in a postseason game and the first since Manu Ginobili in 2007, per <a href="https://x.com/UsherNBA/status/1918849951137755226">Stathead</a>.</p><p>"My ability to be a force of nature on the floor is what I pride myself on, so whatever that looks like," Westbrook <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1918877745817214992">told</a> reporters postgame. "It may be turnover, it may be a missed shot, but it may be a steal, may be a dunk, may be a missed three, may be a made three - it's gonna be all of that."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> tallied 22 points, but his negative-33 in 33 minutes is the worst plus-minus of any game in his career, per <a href="https://x.com/zachkram/status/1918844208950997044">ESPN's Zach Kram</a>. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> scored only seven points on 2-of-8 from the field. Harden didn't speak to the media postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/joeylinn_/status/1918852742593888768">Joey Linn of Sports Illustrated</a>.</p><p>While Game 7 was out of hand for most of the second half, the aggregate point differential in the series was plus-4 for L.A.</p><p>Clippers bench boss Ty Lue lost a Game 7 for the first time in his head coaching career, snapping a 4-0 record in such contests.</p><p>Denver has reached the second round in six of the past seven seasons. The Clippers, meanwhile, haven't advanced beyond Round 1 since 2021, and this is their third straight opening-round exit.</p><p>Nikola Jokic and Co. will take on the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Round 2. OKC hasn't played since April 26 after completing a four-game sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies. </p><p>Head coach David Adelman won't be allowed to linger on this series, as Game 1 between the Nuggets and OKC is scheduled for Monday at 9:30 p.m. ET.</p><p>"This was a memorable series. We just don't have time to remember it," Adelman said, per <a href="https://x.com/NBABlackburn/status/1918850898182221935">Ryan Blackburn of Mile High Sports.</a></p>

DENVER, CO - MAY 3: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets handles the ball during the game against = during Round 1 Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 3, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. 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 2025 NBAE

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Nuggets outclass Clippers in Game 7 to set up series with Thunder

Tyrese Haliburton's father, John, won't be at Indiana Pacers home or away games for the foreseeab...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>'s father, John, won't be at Indiana Pacers home or away games for the foreseeable future, a team spokesperson told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1918035610075578404">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Thursday.</p><p>The Pacers' front office made the decision after John sparked an on-court <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3277736" href="https://thescore.com/news/3277736">confrontation</a> with Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> following Indiana's series-clinching win in Game 5, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1918035712869335261">Charania</a> added.</p><p>John left his courtside seat to taunt the 2021 Finals MVP shortly after his son's winning overtime layup. Before exiting the court, Antetokounmpo found John in the crowd and told him to never disrespect Antetokounmpo like that again, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3278263" href="https://thescore.com/news/3278263">Haliburton's account</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tyrese told reporters postgame that he believed his father was in the wrong. John issued an apology on social media shortly after the incident, which Tyrese reposted.</p><p>The Pacers open their second-round series against the No. 1 seed Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 7: John Haliburton looks on before the game during the semifinals of the In-Season Tournament on December 7, 2023 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE

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Haliburton's dad won't attend Pacers games after confronting Giannis

The Minnesota Timberwolves have advanced to Round 2 of the NBA playoffs courtesy of a 103-96 win ...

<p>The Minnesota Timberwolves have advanced to Round 2 of the NBA playoffs courtesy of a 103-96 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 5 on Wednesday in L.A.</p><p>Four-time Defensive Player of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a> had the best playoff performance of his career, tallying 27 points, 24 rebounds, and two blocks. He is the first player in NBA history to record at least 25 points and 20 rebounds while shooting 80% from the field in a series-clinching victory.</p><p>Minnesota struggled mightily from deep, knocking down just 7-of-47 of its 3-point attempts. The poor shooting included a stretch of 18 consecutive 3-point misses. However, 18 offensive boards - including nine from Gobert - buoyed the T-Wolves' offense.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Timberwolves' 14.9% from deep is the lowest 3-point percentage on 40-plus attempts in NBA postseason history, according to <a href="https://x.com/tomhaberstroh/status/1917798696109973573">Tom Haberstroh of Yahoo Sports</a>.</p><p>Timberwolves star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> had his worst offensive outing of the postseason with just 15 points on 5-of-19 from the field and 0-of-11 from three.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> scored 28 points but didn't make his first field goal until midway through the second quarter. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> recorded 22 points on 9-of-21 from the field. The pair combined for just eight points in their final quarter of the season; L.A. only managed to score 16 in the fourth quarter. </p><p>Doncic appeared to injure his back on a fall late in the second quarter and looked noticeably hobbled for the duration of the second half.</p><p>Lakers center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70968" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70968">Jaxson Hayes</a> was taken out of the team's rotation and didn't record a second of action in the closeout contest.</p><p>"There's always a mix of disappointment and gratitude. Certainly disappointed and not something I ever envisioned with this team, having to go in and talk to them after losing in the first round," Lakers head coach JJ Redick said, per <a href="https://x.com/LakersReporter/status/1917808602330656894">Mike Trudell of Spectrum SportsNet</a>.</p><p>"But give Minnesota a lot of credit. They're a really good basketball team. I think our guys played hard enough and did all the right things. We tried to make it work with what we had, and came up short."</p><p>James was vague about his future after Wednesday's defeat marked the end of his 22nd season in the NBA. "I don't know the answer to that right now," James said when asked about how much longer he plans to play, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1917817857989304537">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. </p><p>The Timberwolves will face the winner of the Houston Rockets-Golden State Warriors series. Golden State holds a 3-2 advantage following a blowout defeat Wednesday in Houston.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 30: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks to pass the ball against Rudy Gobert #27, Donte DiVincenzo #0, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker #9 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 30, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Gobert's career night helps T-Wolves eliminate Lakers in 5 games

Maxi Kleber made his Los Angeles Lakers debut in Wednesday's 103-96 Game 5 elimination loss again...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60967" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60967">Maxi Kleber</a> made his Los Angeles Lakers debut in Wednesday's 103-96 Game 5 elimination loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>He checked into the game at the 2:48 mark of the first quarter.</p><p>Kleber last stepped on an NBA floor Jan. 25. He underwent surgery to repair a broken right foot at the end of January.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 6-foot-10 forward was acquired from the Dallas Mavericks as part of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic </a>trade.</p><p>Kleber has averaged 6.4 points and 4.4 rebounds while shooting 34.3% from three in 440 career games - all as a Maverick. He started three of Dallas' five Finals games against the Boston Celtics last season.</p><p>L.A. had struggled with its depth against the Timberwolves, as only seven players are averaging more than 10 minutes per game heading into Game 5.</p><p>Kleber finished the night with two points and one turnover in five minutes of action.</p>

EL SEGUNDO, CA - APRIL 02: Maxi Kleber runs drills during a Lakers practice at UCLA Health Training Center on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 in El Segundo, CA.(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Kleber makes Lakers debut in Game 5 elimination loss

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra admits the Jimmy Butler saga was a dark cloud that hovered a...

<p>Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra admits the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler </a>saga was a dark cloud that hovered above the organization for much of the season.</p><p>"It certainly had an impact," Spoelstra said during Wednesday's exit interview with the media, per the <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article305319471.html">Miami Herald's Anthony Chiang</a>. </p><p>"We are an organization that prides ourselves on not making any kind of excuses. Even if we managed it perfectly, there's always second-guessing on what we could have done better just to right the ship. It was turbulent waters. But it's not as if that would have moved the needle for us to be first in the conference. That's unrealistic."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Butler, who led the Heat to two NBA Finals appearances in five seasons with the club, was the focus of president Pat Riley's ire last offseason. The Hall of Famer criticized Butler for his behavior in the 2024 playoffs as well as his lack of availability throughout the season. Miami also refused to give the six-time All-Star his desired two-year, $113-million contract extension.</p><p>Butler asked to be traded and was suspended without pay three different times in January before being shipped to the Golden State Warriors at the trade deadline.</p><p>"It was a good five-year run," Spoelstra commented. "When things end, often times they end not as loudly as this. ... And it's unfortunate."</p><p>He added: "We all feel like it didn't have to go to that level. But we have clarity now. We have turned the page, this is a different chapter and we're moving on."</p><p>The Heat finished 10th in the East with a 37-45 record. They managed to win two consecutive play-in games to clinch the No. 8 seed but were blown out in a 4-0 sweep against the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>The first-round exit included a 37-point loss in Game 3 and a 55-point defeat in Game 4, the two largest playoff losses in Miami's history. The Heat's minus-122 point differential through four games makes it the most skewed playoff series in NBA history.</p><p>"I feel like Spo tried to do his best to make the team focus on the main thing," <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> said Wednesday. "Obviously, there was a lot of noise going on around us. There were a lot of things happening, moving fast, not knowing who's going to be in the lineup, if they were going to show up today or not."</p><p>Butler inked a two-year, $121-million extension with Golden State shortly after the trade. He averaged 17.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists in 30 games with the Warriors.</p><p>Golden State has a 3-1 series lead over the Houston Rockets in Round 1 of the playoffs.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 27: Jimmy Butler #22 and Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat look on against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 27, 2023 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 2023 NBAE

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Spoelstra: Butler drama 'certainly had an impact' on Heat's season

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton didn't try to defend his father's postgame altercation wit...

<p>Indiana Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> didn't try to defend his father's postgame altercation with Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>.</p><p>"You know, as far as the incident between Giannis and my pops, I had no idea it happened until I got to the back and was showed the video," Haliburton said after the Pacers eliminated the Bucks in Game 5, per <a href="https://athlonsports.com/nba/indiana-pacers/tyrese-haliburton-assigns-blame-following-dads-heated-exchange-with-giannis-antetokounmpo">Nick Meyer of Athlon Sports</a>.</p><p>"Me and my pops have talked about that, and I don't agree with what transpired there from him. Basketball is basketball, and let's keep it on the court. I think that he just got excited, saw his son make the game-winner, and came on the court."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Haliburton's father, John, walked out of his seat carrying a towel shortly after his son's series-clinching layup in overtime. He stared down the Bucks star and appeared to say a few words to him before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11120">Pat Connaughton</a> arrived to de-escalate the situation.</p><p>"I don't think my pops was in the right at all there," Haliburton added.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="350" height="622" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DD1kRFMWy0Y" title="Haliburton's dad went up to Giannis with a Pacers poster 😳 (via TylerSmith_ISL/X)" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Shortly after, Antetokounmpo found John in the crowd. The pair exchanged words before a Bucks employee shepherded Antetokounmpo away.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="350" height="622" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CFciiy7p0Ew" title="Giannis &amp; Tyrese Haliburton's dad 👀" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Antetokounmpo also had a heated postgame <a href="https://x.com/Sleeper_Hoops/status/1917384130188435738">argument</a> with Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102759" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102759">Bennedict Mathurin</a> as the two teams shook hands at midcourt.</p><p>"I believe in being humble in victory, that's the way I am," Antetokounmpo <a href="https://x.com/WorldWideWob/status/1917414583209451696">said</a> in his postgame press conference. "There can be a lot of people out there that are like, 'No, when you win the game, you get to talk shit, and, you know, it's a green light to be disrespectful to somebody else.' I disagree."</p><p>He continued: "I have won a championship, they haven't."</p><p>Antetokounmpo wasn't angry at Haliburton's father for showing emotion. However, he was frustrated with the disrespect he was shown after the match.</p><p>"I'm happy for him, and I'm happy for his son, and I'm happy he's happy for his son," he said. "That's how he's supposed to feel. But coming to me and disrespecting me and cursing at me is totally disrespectful."</p><p>Haliburton later reposted an apology that his father wrote on the social media platform <a href="https://x.com/PapaHaliburton/status/1917435463045898241">X</a>:</p><blockquote><p>I sincerely apologize to Giannis, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Pacers organization for my actions following tonight's game. This was not a good reflection on our sport or my son and I will not make that mistake again.</p></blockquote><p>This is the second consecutive postseason the Pacers have eliminated the Bucks in the first round.</p><p>Antetokounmpo recorded 30 points, 20 rebounds, 13 assists, and two blocks in the overtime loss.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 29: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts in the first quarter against the Indiana Pacers of Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 29, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Haliburton: Father responsible for postgame incident with Giannis

Former high school phenom Mikey Williams is transferring to Sacramento State, he told ESPN's Sham...

<p>Former high school phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110323" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110323">Mikey Williams</a> is transferring to Sacramento State, he told <a href="https://africa.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44923348/ex-hs-phenom-mikey-williams-leaves-ucf-sacramento-state">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Tuesday.</p><p>The move comes after NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3277059" href="https://thescore.com/news/3277059">reportedly</a> agreed to become the school's general manager on a voluntary basis.</p><p>Williams, 20, was <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/playerrankings/_/class/2023/order/true">ESPN</a>'s 49th-highest-ranked recruit in the class of 2023. He originally signed with Memphis.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Williams never played a minute for the Tigers. He was arrested in April 2023 and charged with nine felonies after he allegedly fired a gun into a car full of people.</p><p>Williams pleaded guilty to a single felony charge, which was eventually reduced to a misdemeanor.</p><p>He then entered the transfer portal and landed at UCF, where he averaged 5.1 points last season while shooting 37.1% from the floor and 28.1% from deep in 18 games.</p><p>Williams will join O'Neal's son, Shaqir, at Sacramento State. Shaqir transferred to the school from Florida A&amp;M in March.</p><p>Sacramento State went 7-25 last season. The Hornets finished last in the Big Sky under head coach Michael Czepil, who was replaced by former NBA player Mike Bibby in late March.</p><p>The school has never made an NCAA Tournament appearance.</p>

TUCSON, AZ - JANUARY 11: UCF Knights guard Mikey Williams #1 during a basketball game between the UCF Knights and the Arizona Wildcats on January 11, 2025, at McKale Center in Tucson, AZ.

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Former 4-star recruit Mikey Williams joining Shaq at Sacramento State

The offseason player movement should slow down with the transfer portal now closed and early NBA ...

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Early CBB top 25: Purdue's vets stand out, St. John's wins portal

Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green brushed off comments made by Golden State Warriors forward Dray...

<p>Houston Rockets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a> brushed off comments made by Golden State Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> at the conclusion of Game 3.</p><p>The pair got into an altercation at midcourt in which the Warriors' Green directed a gesture at the fourth-year guard that mimicked painting nails following Golden State's 104-93 victory Saturday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Draymond to Jalen Green:<br><br>“GO PAINT YOUR NAILS” <br><br>💀💀💀<a href="https://t.co/WopCDarmPm">pic.twitter.com/WopCDarmPm</a></p>— NBA Memes (@NBAMemes) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAMemes/status/1916344002888008079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"Just talking," Jalen Green <a href="https://x.com/clutchfans/status/1916341971536269579">told</a> reporters when asked what transpired after the game. "Steph (Curry) had a good game. The reason they won.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Just talking. (Draymond) can't really do much of anything else, so talking is his only way."</p><p>The Defensive Player of the Year finalist didn't confirm that he said something to Jalen Green related to painting his nails, according to <a href="https://www.nbcsportsbayarea.com/nba/golden-state-warriors/draymond-green-jalen-green-altercation/1845943/">NBC Sports' Ali Thanawalla</a>.</p><p>"I'm not sure what he took (umbrage) to," he said. "But it was a good win for us."</p><p>Jalen Green said in a 2024 video with <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@overtime/video/7325936393874672926?is_from_webapp=1&amp;sender_device=pc">Overtime</a> that he started painting his nails after getting his hands tattooed. </p><p>Draymond Green finished the game with seven points, eight rebounds, and four assists on 3-of-11 shots from the field. Golden State was plus-12 when he was on the court. Curry scored a game-high 36 points.</p><p>Jalen Green tallied nine points and five assists on 4-of-11 shooting.</p><p>The Warriors possess a 2-1 series lead. Game 4 is scheduled for Monday at 10 p.m. ET.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - APRIL 26: Jalen Green #4 of the Houston Rockets shoots the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors during Round 1 Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 26, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Rockets' Green dismisses Draymond: 'Talking is his only way'

Miami Heat All-Star Tyler Herro wasn't impressed with Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland ca...

<p>Miami Heat All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> wasn't impressed with Cleveland Cavaliers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> calling out his defense after Game 2.</p><p>"To go to the media to talk about game plan, and this and that, kind of says a lot about him," Herro said Friday, according to the <a href="https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2025/04/25/heats-herro-says-i-dont-need-any-fuel-in-response-to-cavs-garland-pick-on-tyler-herro/">South Florida Sun Sentinel's Ira Winderman</a>. "I'm not worried about Darius Garland. I'm worried about winning a playoff game."</p><p>Herro added, "At the end of the day, it's competitive. But somebody who doesn't play defense shouldn't be talking. He don't play any defense."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Garland said Wednesday he credited the Cavs' 2-0 first-round series lead to the team's simple game plan.</p><p>"Pick on Tyler Herro and take care of the ball. Don't play in tight spaces and pick on their weak defenders," Garland said, according to <a href="https://x.com/RealDCunningham/status/1915241932965490749">Locked on Cavs' Danny Cunningham</a>.</p><p>Cleveland's guards have been torching Miami all series. The trio of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53038" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53038">Ty Jerome</a>, and Garland is averaging a combined 71 points per game. The Cavs scored 121 points in both victories.</p><p>Heat forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> defended Herro, stating the entire team takes the insult personally. "Obviously, he said what he said. We all take that personal, not only just Tyler, we all take it personal."</p><p>Herro is averaging 27 points, nine more than the team's second-leading playoff scorer (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96105" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96105">Davion Mitchell</a> at 18 points). Of the four Heat players to start both contests, only Adebayo has a better defensive rating than Herro's 134.9.</p><p>Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday at 1 p.m. ET. </p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 20: Darius Garland #10 of the Cleveland Cavaliers guards Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat during the second quarter of game one of the first round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs at Rocket Arena on April 20, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Herro responds to Garland's defense jab: He shouldn't be talking

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant will be sidelined for Game 4 against the Oklahoma City Thunder d...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> will be sidelined for Game 4 against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to a hip injury, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1915853539340956034">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Friday.</p><p>The Grizzlies officially listed Morant as doubtful with a hip contusion.</p><p>Morant was injured late in the second quarter of Game 3 after a collision with Thunder guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70382" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70382">Luguentz Dort</a>. Morant left the game and didn't return.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He tallied 15 points and five assists on 6-of-11 shooting from the field prior to the injury. Memphis blew a 26-point halftime lead following Morant's exit.</p><p>The Murray State product was the Grizzlies' leading scorer in the regular season, averaging 23.2 points and 7.3 assists.</p><p>Morant struggled to stay healthy, however, only appearing in 50 games due to a variety of ailments. He played through an ankle sprain in Memphis' play-in game against the Dallas Mavericks and reportedly received injections to help manage the pain.</p><p>OKC took a 3-0 series lead with Thursday's 114-108 victory. Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET.</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 24: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies dribbles the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round One Game Three of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Morant won't play in Game 4 due to hip injury

Reigning SEC Sixth Woman of the Year MiLaysia Fulwiley will play her junior season at conference ...

<p>Reigning SEC Sixth Woman of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111389" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111389">MiLaysia Fulwiley</a> will play her junior season at conference rival LSU after transferring from South Carolina, she <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DI4RpcbgjAk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">announced</a> Friday on Instagram.</p><p>The 5-foot-10 guard played her first two seasons with the Gamecocks and was a key piece of the squad that won the 2024 national title.</p><p>Fulwiley averaged 11.7 points, 2.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in 77 career games for South Carolina. She won the SEC Tournament MVP as a freshman and is a two-time All-SEC tourney nominee.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 20-year-old saw her minutes diminish and she recorded two of her four lowest minute totals in the NCAA Tournament.</p><p>Fulwiley bolsters an already impressive LSU backcourt, as both Flau'Jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams are returning to Baton Rouge.</p><p>The Tigers went 31-6 overall and finished third in the SEC after going 12-4 in conference play. They were beaten by UCLA in the Elite Eight. </p>

TAMPA, FL - APRIL 04: South Carolina Gamecocks guard MiLaysia Fulwiley (12) wit the ball during the NCAA Div I Women's Championship Final Four game between Texas Longhorns and South Carolina Gamecocks on April 4, 2025, at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL.

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Ex-South Carolina standout Fulwiley transferring to LSU

Alijah Arenas is out of his medically induced coma, the USC recruit's family announced in a state...

<p>Alijah Arenas is out of his medically induced coma, the USC recruit's family announced in a statement Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1915789393672929556">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>"In a remarkable and hopeful development, Alijah Arenas has come out of his coma and has shown significant signs of progress within the last 24 hours," the statement said. However, he's still intubated.</p><p>Arenas, 18, reportedly struck a fire hydrant and a tree while driving a Tesla Cybertruck at 4:56 a.m. Thursday. The car caught fire, and his family's statement quotes one of the people who rescued him:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><blockquote><p>I remember hearing banging on the car window, but I couldn't see anything because the smoke was so thick. That's when I realized someone was inside. I tried to break the window, but it wouldn't give. Then I saw one of the windows was cracked just enough and we used everything we had to bend it and pull him out.</p></blockquote><p>The son of former NBA player Gilbert Arenas was taken to the hospital, where he was placed in a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Tarek_Fattal/status/1915483700806209783">Sports Illustrated's Tarek Fattal</a>. He didn't suffer any major bodily injuries.</p><p>After Arenas awoke, he recalled the smoke and, writing on a piece of paper, asked if anyone else was injured in the crash, per the statement.</p><p>The Cybertruck reportedly burst into flames after being removed to a towing yard.</p><p>Arenas was ESPN's 13th-highest-ranked high school recruit and the third-ranked shooting guard in the class of 2025. He is the first five-star recruit to commit to USC in the Eric Musselman era.</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - APRIL 01: McDonalds High School All American Alijah Arenas (16) drives to the basket during the McDonalds Boys High School All American Game on April 1, 2025, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

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USC recruit Alijah Arenas out of coma following car crash

Ex-Cincinnati forward Dillon Mitchell is the third former five-star recruit to transfer to St. Jo...

<p>Ex-Cincinnati forward Dillon Mitchell is the third former five-star recruit to transfer to St. John's this offseason, <a href="https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/1915058166179725642">The Field of 68's Jeff Goodman</a> reported Wednesday.</p><p>Mitchell was the fourth-ranked recruit in the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/playerrankings/_/class/2022/order/true">ESPN 100</a> in 2022. He played two seasons at Texas before heading to Cincinnati for his junior campaign. The 6-foot-8 forward averaged 9.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals in his lone season with the Bearcats.</p><p>Mitchell will team up with former five-star prospects Ian Jackson and Joson Sanon, who transferred from North Carolina and Arizona State, respectively. St John's head coach Rick Pitino also landed former Providence standout Bryce Hopkins and former Stanford sharpshooter Oziyah Sellers from the portal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pitino, 72, has been adamant that he would rather use the transfer portal to build next season's roster with proven college talent instead of recruiting high school players. </p><p>"We're not recruiting any high school basketball players, not this year," he said in February, according to<a href="https://www.nj.com/sports/2025/02/big-east-notebook-pitino-shuts-down-high-school-recruiting-seton-hall-hoping-for-burst-sorber-sustains-injury.html"> Adam Zagoria of NJ.com</a>.</p><p>The Red Storm's only commit from outside college basketball is Austrian forward Imran Suljanovic, who played for Italian club Pallacanestro Reggiana in the Lega Basket Serie A last season.</p><p>St. John's is losing Big East Player of the Year RJ Luis Jr. after he declared for the NBA draft as well as Kadary Richmond and Deivon Smith, who have exhausted their eligibility.</p><p>St. John's won the Big East regular-season and tournament titles in its second season under Pitino. The program was rewarded with a 2-seed in the NCAA tourney but was eliminated by 10-seed Arkansas in the Round of 32.</p>

CINCINNATI, OHIO - FEBRUARY 25: Dillon Mitchell #23 of the Cincinnati Bearcats celebrates in the second half against the Baylor Bears at Fifth Third Arena on February 25, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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Report: St. John's adds former 5-star recruit Mitchell from Cincinnati

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Thomas Tittley

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Michael J. Chandler

Supervising editor

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