Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler doesn't believe he was the sole culprit in his ugly split...

<p>Golden State Warriors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> doesn't believe he was the sole culprit in his ugly split with the Miami Heat.</p><p>"It ain't like I was the one who was doing everything," Butler told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article302658159.html">Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald</a>. "It's got to be 50-50, maybe 51-49. Forty-nine towards them, 51 towards me. But there's no way that I was the cause of all of this."</p><p>Miami dealt Butler to the Warriors ahead of the trade deadline, ending weeks of tension between him and the club.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Heat suspended Butler three different times in January. He was initially handed a seven-game ban for conduct detrimental to the team, and the Heat confirmed he'd requested a trade. Butler was subsequently suspended two games for missing a team flight and then banned indefinitely after walking out of a practice for "a continued pattern of disregard of team rules, engaging in conduct detrimental to the team, and intentionally withholding services."</p><p>Butler doesn't think his behavior warranted the suspensions.</p><p>"I think the suspensions are more because they just didn't want me to be around the team," Butler said. "It wasn't anything I actually did because I didn't do anything too drastic to deserve X amount of games being suspended. But it is what it is. Yeah, I got some bills. So what, it's all taken care of."</p><p>Butler will make his long-awaited return to South Beach on Tuesday when the Warriors face the Heat.</p><p>Miami plans to honor Butler with a tribute video.</p><p>The six-time All-Star spent parts of six seasons with the Heat, leading the franchise to a pair of Finals appearances and earning three All-NBA nods.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MARCH 18: Jimmy Butler #10 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 18, 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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Butler: 'No way' I was sole cause of breakup with Heat

Minnesota hired Colorado State's Niko Medved as its new head coach, Golden Gophers athletic direc...

<p>Minnesota hired Colorado State's Niko Medved as its new head coach, Golden Gophers athletic director Mark Coyle announced Monday.</p><p>The two sides agreed to a six-year deal, pending approval from Minnesota's board of regents. An introductory press conference is scheduled for Tuesday.</p><p>"Niko is a Minnesota alum with a proven head coaching track record," Coyle said in a statement. "He is extremely passionate about coaching and developing young men and takes great pride in being from Minnesota. He has had success everywhere he has been, and we look forward to him leading our men's basketball program at his alma mater."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Medved spent the past seven seasons with the Rams, guiding the program to a 143-85 mark and three NCAA Tournament appearances.</p><p>The 51-year-old led Colorado State to this season's Mountain West Tournament crown and a second-round showing at the Big Dance.</p><p>Medved replaces Ben Johnson, who was fired after going 56-71 in four seasons with his alma mater.</p><p>The Golden Gophers haven't made the NCAA Tournament since 2019.</p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - MARCH 23: Head coach Niko Medved of the Colorado State Rams reacts during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Climate Pledge Arena on March 23, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Minnesota hires Colorado State's Niko Medved

Iowa reached a deal to hire Drake's Ben McCollum as its next head coach, Hawkeyes director of ath...

<p>Iowa reached a deal to hire Drake's Ben McCollum as its next head coach, Hawkeyes director of athletics Beth Goetz announced Monday.</p><p>Iowa parted ways with Fran McCaffery on March 14 after 15 seasons with the program. The Hawkeyes finished the campaign with a 17-16 overall record and missed their second consecutive NCAA Tournament.</p><p>"We are excited to welcome coach McCollum and his family back to Iowa City," Goetz <a href="https://hawkeyesports.com/news/2025/03/24/ben-mccollum-named-iowa-head-mens-basketball-coach">said</a> in a statement. "Ben has a track record of success both on and off the court. His talent for developing student-athletes and fostering a strong team culture has been evident throughout his career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I am confident that Hawkeye fans will enthusiastically support the McCollum family as we embark on the next chapter of Iowa men's basketball."</p><p>McCollum guided Drake to a 31-4 mark during his lone season with the school. The Bulldogs won the Missouri Valley regular-season title and captured the conference tournament crown to advance to the Big Dance.</p><p>Drake upset 6-seed Missouri for its first NCAA Tournament win since 1971 before falling to Texas Tech in the next round.</p><p>McCollum previously spent 15 seasons with Division II school Northwest Missouri State, posting a 394-91 record and winning four national championships.</p>

WICHITA, KANSAS - MARCH 22: Head coach Ben McCollum of the Drake Bulldogs reacts during the first half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the second round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at INTRUST Arena on March 22, 2025 in Wichita, Kansas.

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Iowa hires Drake's McCollum as head coach

It took a dramatic comeback by Michigan, but the Big Ten continues to roll at the 2025 NCAA Tourn...

<p>It took a dramatic comeback by Michigan, but the Big Ten continues to roll at the 2025 NCAA Tournament.</p><p>The 5th-ranked Wolverines erased a 10-point deficit with a furious second-half rally to beat No. 4 Texas A&amp;M 91-79 in their Round of 32 clash Saturday.</p><p>That victory improved the Big Ten's record to 10-0 at that time. Wisconsin was the first Big Ten team to lose when its comeback bid versus BYU fell short after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/76076" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/76076">John Tonje</a> airballed his last-second jumper. UCLA lost in the nightcap to Tennessee. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Purdue <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3248189" href="https://thescore.com/news/3248189">advanced</a> to the Sweet 16 earlier in the afternoon with a triumph over McNeese State.</p><p>An additional four Big Ten schools could still join Michigan and Purdue in the second weekend. Illinois, Maryland, Michigan State, and Oregon are all in action Sunday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102875" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102875">Roddy Gayle Jr.</a> scored a season-high 26 points off the bench to lead Michigan to its eighth Sweet 16 since 2013.</p><p>Meanwhile, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102857" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102857">Pharrel Payne</a> added 26 points and five boards for the Aggies in a losing cause.</p><p>The Wolverines won the rebounding battle by nine and had 42 points in the paint.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 22: Roddy Gayle Jr. #11 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates after defeating the Texas A&M Aggies during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Ball Arena on March 22, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Big Ten stays hot after Michigan rallies past Texas A&M

Rick Pitino cited a lack of playmaking as one of the main reasons St. John's fell 75-66 to Arkans...

<p>Rick Pitino cited a lack of playmaking as one of the main reasons St. John's fell 75-66 to Arkansas in the Round of 32.</p><p>"Offensively, we just did not share the basketball enough, and that was our demise," Pitino told reporters Saturday after the Red Storm's season-ending loss, according to <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1903570269266186570">CBS Sports</a>.</p><p>St. John's tallied only five assists versus the Razorbacks. That was well below their season average of 16, which ranked 39th in the NCAA.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/88725" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/88725">Kadary Richmond</a>'s 5.4 assists per contest was the fourth-best mark in the Big East, but he mustered only two dimes against Arkansas.</p><p>The Red Storm's inability to create for one another contributed to a 28% clip from the field. They missed 8-of-9 shots over the final 3:26.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103426" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103426">RJ Luis Jr.</a> was noticeably absent down the stretch as St. John's attempted to overcome a 13-point deficit. The reigning Big East Player of the Year was held to nine points on 3-of-17 shooting, including an 0-for-7 mark from deep.</p><p>Pitino alluded to Luis' rough showing as the reason his star remained on the bench during the closing stages.</p><p>"I'm not going to knock one of my players," Pitino <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1903573277684928730">said</a>.</p><p>In response to a question about Luis being on the bench for a long stretch late in the game, Pitino <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1903571177714667984">added</a>: "He played 30 minutes, and I went with other people. ... You already know why he didn't play."</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 22: Rick Pitino head coach of the St. John's Red Storm expresses his displeasure with a call during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 22, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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Pitino: St. John's didn't share the basketball enough vs. Arkansas

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Saturday's biggest NCAA Tournament ga...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Saturday's biggest NCAA Tournament games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Houston's never-ending effort</h3><p>A key component of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a>'s success under Kelvin Sampson has been its offensive rebounding. It entered Saturday's second-round clash against Gonzaga tied for 17th in offensive rebound percentage (36.5%) and tied for 22nd in total offensive boards (436). Three different Cougars were tallying multiple offensive rebounds per contest, and Joseph Tugler's 13.9% offensive rebound percentage was the fourth-best mark in the Big 12.</p><p>Houston's second effort on the offensive glass was the difference in a tilt that went down to the wire. The Cougars continuously got themselves extra possessions and made Gonzaga pay for failing to control the glass. Sampson's group had 13 offensive boards that led to 20 second-chance points. Tugler tied a career high with six offensive rebounds, while J'Wan Roberts had an additional four. Mylik Wilson's offensive board with 52 seconds remaining prevented Gonzaga from breaking out in transition and cutting the deficit to a one-possession game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Bulldogs boast the NCAA's second-highest offense and were always going to find ways to manufacture points despite Houston's elite defense. The Cougars' offensive rebounding was perhaps the best way to slow Gonzaga down as it limited possessions and gave Houston more opportunities to set up its stingy half-court defense.</p><h3>Arkansas, Calipari out-Pitino St. John's</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/cropped_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Solomon / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>John Calipari faced Rick Pitino for the fifth time in NCAA Tournament history Saturday, and the team that emerged victorious was the one that was more relentless on offense and played stifling defense. Congratulations, St. John's, right? Not quite. While that sounds like the perfect recipe for success for a Pitino-coached team, it was actually No. 10 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/71" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/71">Arkansas</a> that delivered the upset, ousting the West's No. 2 seed.</p><p>Arkansas' defense was brilliant throughout, holding Big East player of the year RJ Luis to just nine points on 3-of-17 shooting. His struggles actually forced Pitino to sit him for significant stretches of play. That - combined with a very heavy whistle from the officials - resulted in Pitino adjusting his rotations on the fly. The changes didn't generate any offense, and St. John's shot a dismal 28% overall. That low number now drops teams to 3-63 in the last 20 years of the NCAA Tournament when failing to shoot 30% from deep.</p><p>Make no mistake, it wasn't a pretty showing on offense for the Razorbacks, either. The SEC program hit just 2-of-19 triples. But Calipari shifted the focus to attacking the basket, and that led to Arkansas scoring 46 points in the paint - the most St. John's allowed all year.</p><p>Calipari's 16th trip to the Sweet 16 might be one of his most surprising, as it's the first time he's held a double-digit seed in 24 tournament appearances. However, he seems to have his squad peaking at the right time - a dangerous sight for the rest of the West Region.</p><h3>Tennessee uses death by 3-pointer</h3><p>Let's just get this out of the way now: if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1063" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1063">Tennessee</a> is going to shoot like it did against UCLA, the Volunteers are gonna be a problem for the rest of the Sweet 16 teams. As is usually the case under Rick Barnes, Tennessee shines without the ball, imposing its will on the opponent as KenPom's third-best defense in the country. That was expected to be a strength Saturday night, and that proved true with the Bruins scoring just 58 points.</p><p>What wasn't expected was the slow death by 3-pointer that the Volunteers would inflict on UCLA throughout the contest. Tennessee entered as the 166th-ranked 3-point shooting team in the country at 34%. Led by Chaz Lanier, the Volunteers lit up the Bruins at a remarkable 11-of-22 shooting performance from deep. Included in that was Lanier's 4-for-5 performance to set the new Tennessee record for most triples in a season.</p><h3>Electric BYU ends Big Ten's perfect run</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/155" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/155">BYU</a> did what 10 other programs had failed to do thus far in the 2025 NCAA Tournament: beat a team from the Big Ten. All it took was a ridiculous shooting performance to build a lead and a last-second defensive stop to ensure an epic collapse didn't bring down the Cougars.</p><p>The Cougars raced out to a lead in the opening half by running wild on the Badgers defense, torching the nets on 43% shooting from deep. Turns out, every one of those triples would be needed because John Tonje had big plans in the second half. The Wisconsin star poured in 37 points and gave the fans what they had been waiting for all tournament: a dramatic finish with a potential buzzer-beater.</p><p>In a game essentially void of defense for 39:50, a stop in the dying seconds ended up being the difference with Tonje swarmed and forced into an airball to secure the BYU win.</p><p>The Cougars are now off to the Sweet 16 with scoreboards everywhere terrified BYU's opponent will be Alabama. Should the Crimson Tide beat Saint Mary's on Sunday, the Sweet 16 contest would feature two of the nation's top offensive units.</p><h3>Purdue squashes McNeese's aura</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/cropped_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Solomon / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Turns out, <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1903467431663673572">aura</a> can only deliver one win in the NCAA Tournament. </p><p>No. 12 McNeese State and the viral-sensation student manager Amir Khan were one of the biggest stories in Thursday's opening-round action with an upset of No. 5 Clemson. Khan became an instant celebrity, inking multiple endorsement deals - yes, a manager with endorsement deals - prior to Saturday's game against No. 4 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a>.</p><p>It certainly looked as if the Cowboys' minds were still focused on their newfound fame instead of the opponent, as the Boilermakers dominated from the jump. An 18-point halftime lead, thanks to a staggering 22-12 advantage on the glass, essentially ended any upset hopes before the teams hit the locker room. McNeese simply couldn't get anything going against the defense, shooting 2-of-12 from deep and making just eight total field goals in the frame. The Boilermakers' physicality was likely something McNeese hadn't seen often in the mid-major ranks.</p><p>While they performed significantly better in the second, the substantial lead was too much to overcome. The Cowboys' run, and time under head coach Will Wade, came to an end. Wade is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3248241" href="https://thescore.com/news/3248241">reportedly</a> taking the NC State job.</p><p>As for Purdue, Trey Kaufman-Renn owned the paint with 22 points and 15 rebounds in the win. The bracket is now opening up incredibly well for last year's national finalist to make a return trip. While No. 1 Houston or No. 8 Gonzaga will be a formidable opponent in the Sweet 16, the game will be played in Indianapolis - less than 80 miles from the Purdue campus.</p><h3>Pettiford continues to shine</h3><p>Tahaad Pettiford's developed a reputation of a big-game player during his brief collegiate career. The freshman guard had 21 points in a neutral-site win over Houston earlier this season and 20 in a narrow defeat to Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium. He tallied 16 points, five boards, and five assists against Alabama State in his NCAA Tournament debut. So naturally it was Pettiford who rose to the occasion once again with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a> down two at the half to Crieghton and in need of a spark.</p><p>Pettiford delivered with 23 points, six boards, and three assists in 32 minutes. His scoring output was the most ever by a Tigers player off the bench in an NCAA Tournament game. He had 16 points in the second half and went 7-of-8 from the charity stripe.</p><p>Pettiford had all the elements of his game working against the Bluejays. He was creating space from defenders on step-backs, pulling up at the elbow, splitting the defense on traps, and showing his soft touch on floaters. Pettiford's play was enormous with Wooden Award candidate Johni Broome having an off shooting night.</p><h3>Pick your poison with Texas Tech</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/cropped_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's unclear whether Grant McCasland operates under the K.I.S.S. principle (keep it simple, stupid), but through two games of the NCAA Tournament it certainly looks that way. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a>'s coach completely flipped the script on the offensive game plan from Thursday to Saturday and has the Red Raiders off to the Sweet 16 as a result.</p><p>The plan on Thursday: Go bombs away on UNC Wilmington from deep - a team that ranks 191st in the nation in 3-point defense. That saw Texas Tech shoot a school record 46 triples en route to a 10-point win. A change was needed for Saturday's contest against stingy No. 11 Drake, as the Bulldogs perimeter defense is among the best in the tournament. The Red Raiders hoisted only 14 triples as a result, instead attacking the basket relentlessly to the tune of a whopping 50 points in the paint.</p><p>A second comfortable win for the Big 12 club sets up a date with Arkansas in the Sweet 16. The Razorbacks are fresh off a defensive masterclass to oust No. 2 St. John's and have the size to bother JT Toppin down low. It will be fascinating to see how McCasland attacks their defense, but the opening week's performance is probably a good indicator the Red Raiders should feel good about their chances.</p><h3>Michigan duo leads 2nd-half rally</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/659" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/659">Michigan</a> stormed back in the second half versus Texas A&amp;M, erasing a 10-point deficit to secure its eighth Sweet 16 appearance since 2013. Ohio State transfer Roddy Gayle Jr. came up big off the bench, exploding for 21 of his season-high 26 points over the final 20 minutes. He had a stretch of 11 consecutive points for the Wolverines to put his team up for good.</p><p>Vlad Goldin then took the baton from Gayle, scoring Michigan's next eight points. The big man was decisive in helping Michigan win the battle on the glass against the country's top offensive rebounding team. He kept the Aggies' bevy of rebounders at bay, registering a game-high 12 boards, including seven defensive rebounds.</p>

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Day 3 tourney takeaways: Relentless Houston to Sweet 16

Virginia hired VCU's Ryan Odom as its next head coach, the school announced in a statement Saturd...

<p>Virginia hired VCU's Ryan Odom as its next head coach, the school announced in a statement Saturday.</p><p>Odom will replace interim head coach Ron Sanchez, who took over in October after the sudden retirement of Tony Bennett.</p><p>Virginia stumbled to a 15-17 mark during Sanchez's lone season in charge.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Odom spent the previous two campaigns with the Rams, guiding the program to a 52-21 record. He led VCU to an A-10 regular-season title and conference tournament crown this past season.</p><p>Odom famously coached 16th-seeded UMBC to an upset of top-seeded Virginia in the 2018 NCAA Tournament. The 50-year-old subsequently spent three more seasons with the Retrievers before joining Utah State for a two-year stint.</p><p>The Cavaliers haven't won an NCAA Tournament game since capturing the 2019 national championship.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 16: Head coach Ryan Odom of the Virginia Commonwealth Rams looks on against the George Mason Patriots during the championship game of the A10 men's basketball tournament at Capital One Arena on March 16, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Virginia hires VCU's Ryan Odom

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Friday's biggest NCAA Tournament game...

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Day 2 tourney takeaways: UConn's 3-peat remains alive

McNeese State head coach Will Wade is reportedly set to take over at NC State following the NCAA ...

<p>McNeese State head coach Will Wade is reportedly set to take over at NC State following the NCAA Tournament, but he's apparently not the only head coach in the Big Dance who could be on the move.</p><p>"Villanova's trying to buy a coach out of the NCAA Tournament right now!" Wade told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1902848782502383791">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>, following the Cowboys' first-round win over Clemson on Thursday.</p><p>Wade didn't reveal who the Wildcats were looking to poach.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>UCLA's Mick Cronin, VCU's Ryan Odom, and New Mexico's Richard Pitino have all been linked to the Villanova job, sources told <a href="https://www.nj.com/rutgersbasketball/2025/03/a-big-name-dark-horse-is-in-the-mix-for-the-villanova-coaching-opening.html">NJ.com's Adam Zagoria</a>.</p><p>The Bruins' lead man is a "dark horse" contender, along with Northwestern's Chris Collins, Zagoria added.</p><p>Villanova fired Kyle Neptune last Saturday after the school missed its third straight NCAA Tournament. The Wildcats went 54-47 under Jay Wright's successor.</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 20: Head coach Will Wade of the McNeese State Cowboys reacts against the Clemson Tigers during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 20, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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McNeese State's Wade: Villanova's trying to buy out a coach in NCAA tourney

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Day 1 tourney takeaways: Drake, McNeese lead upsets

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Best of both worlds: LSU's Flau'Jae Johnson leaves her mark as hooper, rapper

A number of schools have a realistic shot at cutting down the nets at the women's Final Four in T...

<p>A number of schools have a realistic shot at cutting down the nets at the women's Final Four in Tampa in April.</p><p>It's a stark change to the last few campaigns, where it seemed like a foregone conclusion that South Carolina would be the last team standing. The Gamecocks have dropped more games this season than the last two years combined.</p><p>But South Carolina isn't the only team to expose weaknesses.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's one potentially fatal flaw for each of this season's top contenders, including the defending champs.</p><h3>UCLA: Turnovers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/cropped_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w220xh124_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w320xh180_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w640xh360_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w768xh432_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>One of UCLA's underlying issues amid its winningest campaign has been turnovers. The Bruins are 229th with 15.3 turnovers per game and have coughed up the ball as many times as their opponents. Four different players are turning the ball over multiple times per contest, including star center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104621" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104621">Lauren Betts</a>, who ranks 19th in the Big Ten with 78 turnovers.</p><p>UCLA's inability to take care of the rock reared its ugly head during its three matchups versus USC. The Bruins went 1-2 against their crosstown rivals, averaging 20 turnovers in those contests and surrendering 20 points per game off those miscues.</p><h3>South Carolina: Paint defense</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/cropped_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eakin Howard / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The biggest question about South Carolina entering the season was the absence of a true rim-protector. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121631" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121631">Kamilla Cardoso</a>'s departure to the WNBA left a void in the middle. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104313" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104313">Ashlyn Watkins</a> seemed to fill it - until she suffered a season-ending torn ACL in January.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/109918" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/109918">Chloe Kitts</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163076" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163076">Joyce Edwards</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97158" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97158">Sania Feagin</a> have all done a tremendous job supplying South Carolina with consistent offense and rebounding. However, none of them have deterred opponents from attacking the rim. That's been a common theme in each of South Carolina's defeats this season. Texas had 40 points in the paint in its win over the Gamecocks last February, while UConn posted 36 in its 29-point blowout at Colonial Life Arena.</p><h3>UConn: No true center</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/cropped_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">G Fiume / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Geno Auriemma spent the entire campaign looking for an answer at the five. The Hall of Fame coach started <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104800" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104800">Ice Brady</a> for the first 12 contests of the season, then swapped her midseason for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110105" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110105">Jana El Alfy</a>. Neither player made a significant impact, forcing Auriemma to frequently use smaller lineups featuring freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163466" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163466">Sarah Strong</a> at center.</p><p>UConn was able to sacrifice frontcourt size in a Big East that largely lacks skilled bigs. That won't be the case in the NCAA Tournament, where the Huskies are bound to face a low-post scorer. El Alfy and Brady boast size, but it remains to be seen if either will be able to deliver the defensive physicality needed to counter such a threat.</p><h3>USC: Bench scoring</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/cropped_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>What's the plan when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">JuJu Watkins</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97058" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97058">Kiki Iriafen</a> don't have it going? USC's star duo shot a combined 35.4% from the field in its three defeats this season, including a 3-of-20 clip from deep for Watkins. The Trojans also got zero bench points when they fell to Notre Dame in late November. Lindsay Gottlieb's second unit has improved over the year, but it remains an area of concern heading into March Madness.</p><p>USC ranks 192nd in bench scoring (16.8), with freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163002" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163002">Avery Howell</a> accounting for approximately 40% of that production. Sophomore guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110971" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110971">Malia Samuels</a> wasn't much of a factor until the Big Ten Tournament, while backup center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/96942" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/96942">Clarice Akunwafo</a> has primarily served as a defensive specialist. First-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163003" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163003">Kayleigh Heckel</a> provides the team with pace and relieves some of the ball-handling duties from Watkins. However, Heckel has struggled immensely over the past month and played just nine minutes in the conference tournament, including a DNP-CD for the final versus UCLA.</p><h3>Texas: Shortage of 3-point shooting</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/cropped_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eakin Howard / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Texas' high-scoring offense has masked its lack of floor spacing. The Longhorns rank 356th in threes made per game (3.2) and 358th in threes attempted per game (10.9). They've only knocked down 29.6% of their triples, with no player averaging more than 0.9 3-point field goals made.</p><p>Vic Schaefer's elite defensive system may only take Texas so far. The Longhorns need to generate more perimeter looks to avoid being a one-dimensional offense. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111856" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111856">Madison Booker</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163079" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163079">Jordan Lee</a> have each shot the ball well from deep in a limited sample. Nobody's expecting Texas to completely revamp its style of play, but mixing in a long-distance attempt here and there would at least keep opposing defenses honest.</p><h3>Notre Dame: Slumping backcourt</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/cropped_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryan M. Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Notre Dame enters the Big Dance with three losses in its last five games after a 19-game win streak briefly put it atop the AP Poll. The Fighting Irish's star backcourt has noticeably struggled as of late. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111974" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111974">Hannah Hidalgo</a> is shooting 37.9% from the field over her last five appearances, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97805" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97805">Olivia Miles</a> is making only 35.5% of her attempts. The tandem shot a combined 12-of-31 when Duke held Notre Dame to a season-low 56 points in the ACC Tournament semifinals.</p><p>Hidalgo and Miles' shooting slumps may just be a product of conference play and their opponents' growing familiarity with their tendencies. But elite guard play is vital to success in March, especially for a Notre Dame squad that lives and dies with its starting backcourt.</p><h3>LSU: Lack of scoring outside Big 3</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/cropped_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">LSU Athletics / University Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97633" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97633">Aneesah Morrow</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104339" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104339">Flau'Jae Johnson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111401" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111401">Mikaylah Williams</a> can match up with any trio in the nation and are averaging a combined 54.6 points on 47.4% shooting. Morrow and Johnson are nursing injuries, but both are expected to be back in the lineup for LSU's NCAA tourney opener. Even at full health, however, Kim Mulkey's group isn't getting enough scoring from the supporting cast.</p><p>Arizona transfer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104576" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104576">Kailyn Gilbert</a> is the team's fourth-highest scorer at 9.7 points per contest, but her play has been up and down throughout the campaign. No player outside of the Tigers' Big 3 tallied double digits in scoring in three of their five defeats this season. It's hard to imagine the Tigers making another deep run without another player rising to the occasion.</p>

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA - MARCH 09: Te-Hina Paopao #0 of the South Carolina Gamecocks dribbles against Rori Harmon #3 of the Texas Longhorns in the first quarter during the championship of the SEC women's basketball tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 09, 2025 in Greenville, South Carolina.

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1 possible fatal flaw for top women's NCAA tourney contenders

Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis will miss at least 10 days due to a right ankle sprain, so...

<p>Sacramento Kings star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/38429" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/38429">Domantas Sabonis</a> will miss at least 10 days due to a right ankle sprain, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1902198508435710337">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The reported timeline would keep Sabonis sidelined for at least six games, which include matchups against the league-leading Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>Sabonis got hurt early in the third quarter of Monday's win over the Memphis Grizzlies and was promptly ruled out for the remainder of the contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 28-year-old missed the previous six games due to a hamstring injury. The Kings are just 3-6 this season without him.</p><p>Sabonis is averaging 19.2 points and is on pace to capture his third straight rebounding title. He's shooting a career-high 42.5% from distance and has tallied the third-most triple-doubles (nine) this season.</p><p>The three-time All-Star has been a vital part of Sacramento's seventh-ranked offense. The Kings score 5.8 more points per 100 possessions when Sabonis is on the floor.</p><p>Sacramento sits ninth in the West with a 34-33 record, just three games clear of the 11th-place Phoenix Suns.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - MARCH 17: Domantas Sabonis #11 of the Sacramento Kings during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 17, 2025 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Kings' Sabonis to miss at least 10 days

Indiana forward Malik Reneau has entered the transfer portal, he announced on social media Tuesda...

<p>Indiana forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102838" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102838">Malik Reneau</a> has entered the transfer portal, he announced on social media Tuesday.</p><p>Reneau spent his first three seasons with the Hoosiers, averaging 11.4 points and five boards across 94 appearances, including 55 starts. He had the fourth-best field-goal percentage (55.2%) in the Big Ten last season.</p><p>Reneau has one year of college eligibility remaining.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I want to thank coach (Mike) Woodson and his entire staff for giving me an opportunity to play for the University of Indiana," Reneau wrote on <a href="https://x.com/MalikReneau/status/1902161735965896766">X</a>. "I will miss the fans and all the great people in Bloomington.</p><p>"After discussions with my family, I've chosen to enter the portal."</p><p>Reneau was a five-star recruit and the 23rd-ranked prospect in the 2022 class. The Florida native helped Montverde Academy win back-to-back high school national championships.</p><p>Reneau originally committed to Florida but opted to join former Montverde teammate Jalen Hood-Schifino at Indiana when then-Gators coach Mike White took Georgia's job opening.</p><p>Reneau's reported decision comes shortly after the Hoosiers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245544" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245544">hired</a> Darian DeVries as Woodson's successor.</p><p>Indiana went 19-13 overall this past season and was one of the first four teams left out of the NCAA Tournament.</p>

EUGENE, OREGON - MARCH 04: Malik Reneau #5 of the Indiana Hoosiers looks on during the second half against the Oregon Ducks at Matthew Knight Arena on March 04, 2025 in Eugene, Oregon.

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Indiana's Reneau enters transfer portal

Women's college basketball continues to thrive following Caitlin Clark's departure to the WNBA.  ...

<p>Women's college basketball continues to thrive following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a>'s departure to the WNBA.</p><p>Numerous players have stepped into the spotlight and are set to showcase their talents on the sport's biggest stage.</p><p>Here are 10 names to watch when the women's NCAA Tournament begins Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>JuJu Watkins, USC</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/cropped_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Hickey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">Watkins</a> will be the face of the sport beyond this season. The Trojans phenom has tallied more points than Clark did through her first two campaigns and is just four 30-point games away from tying Cheryl Miller's program record of 25. Watkins is a nightmare in transition with her size, speed, and strength. She can pull up on a dime from anywhere on the floor and makes the right pass when defenses swarm her in the paint. The Los Angeles native is also a semifinalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award, showing great help instincts and often getting a hand in passing lanes.</p><h3>Paige Bueckers, UConn</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/cropped_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Bueckers</a> is the presumptive No. 1 pick in this year's WNBA draft. The Huskies star was the first freshman to sweep the National Player of the Year awards and has recaptured that form after missing the entire 2022-23 campaign with a torn ACL. Bueckers is an efficient three-level scorer with near 50/40/90 shooting splits this season. She's an unselfish player who's always looking to create high-percentage looks for her teammates. Her 3.9 assist-to-turnover ratio leads all players. Bueckers' defense has steadily improved as she uses her length to contest shots and create turnovers.</p><h3>Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/cropped_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lance King / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111974" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111974">Hidalgo</a> may be small in stature, but the 5-foot-6 sophomore guard is Notre Dame's spark plug on both ends of the floor. She ignites the Fighting Irish's transition attack with her speed, plays relentless defense, and isn't afraid to take big shots. Hidalgo ranks fourth in the nation in both scoring (24.2 points per contest) and steals (3.7). She's shooting the ball significantly better from downtown too, making 40.7% of her 3-point attempts.</p><h3>Lauren Betts, UCLA</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/cropped_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w220xh124_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w320xh180_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w640xh360_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w768xh432_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Katelyn Mulcahy / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104621" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104621">Betts</a> was the driving force for a UCLA squad that spent most of the campaign atop the AP Poll. The 6-foot-7 center is an imposing figure in the paint as both a shot-blocker and low-post scorer. She's registered the fifth-most swats (85) and is converting 65.6% of her attempts at the rim, per <a href="https://hoop-explorer.com/PlayerLeaderboard?filter=Betts%2C%20Lauren%3A%3B&amp;gender=Women&amp;showInfoSubHeader=true&amp;sortBy=desc%3Ayear&amp;tier=All&amp;year=All&amp;">Hoop Explorer</a>. Betts' newfound playmaking adds another wrinkle to her game. She does a good job passing out of double-teams in the post and has been a weapon in dribble handoffs.</p><h3>Aneesah Morrow, LSU</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/cropped_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w220xh124_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w320xh180_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w640xh360_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w768xh432_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Reagan Cotten/LSU / University Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97633" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97633">Morrow</a>'s strong senior year is building her draft stock. The 6-foot-1 forward is among 15 players on the national ballot for the Wooden Award and is a semifinalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award. Morrow's a handful to cover on the glass with her never-ending motor. She's leading all players in rebounds for the second time in four campaigns and trails only Courtney Paris on the Division I all-time list in career double-doubles after picking up 27 this season.</p><h3>Madison Booker, Texas</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/cropped_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Hickey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111856" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111856">Booker</a> followed up a standout freshman campaign with SEC Player of the Year honors. The versatile second-year wing paces Texas in scoring (16.2) and ranks second on the team in rebounds (6.6), assists (2.8), and steals (1.6). She's knocking down 13% more threes this season and boasts an elite mid-range game. Booker was the Longhorns' de facto floor general last season in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97639" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97639">Rori Harmon</a>'s absence and continues to facilitate the offense at times.</p><h3>Ta'Niya Latson, Florida State</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/cropped_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Casterline / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>This list wouldn't be complete without the country's leading scorer. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104904" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104904">Latson</a> is the focal point on the NCAA's second-highest scoring unit, averaging 24.9 points on 45.1% shooting. The Miami native blows by defenders off the bounce, has the body control to convert difficult finishes at the rim, and frequently draws fouls with her forceful drives. She's raised her game on the defensive end as well, placing fifth in the ACC with 2.2 steals per contest. Florida State failed to win an NCAA Tournament game in each of Latson's first two seasons, but it's only a matter of time until the program breaks through.</p><h3>Olivia Miles, Notre Dame</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/cropped_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lance King / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97805" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97805">Miles</a> is the other half of Notre Dame's dynamic backcourt. The 22-year-old has been stellar after missing the previous campaign with a torn ACL, tallying a career-high 16.2 points per game and a 2.15 assist-to-turnover ratio. She leads the ACC in assists (5.8) for the third time in four seasons. Miles has also improved arguably her biggest weakness, connecting on 40.9% of her attempts from deep after entering the year as a 24.6% career 3-point shooter. Miles' return allows Hidalgo to play off the ball and has solidified the Fighting Irish as national contenders.</p><h3>Sarah Strong, UConn</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/cropped_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163466" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163466">Strong</a> has looked like anything but a freshman. The top-ranked recruit in last year's class has immediately provided UConn with a bona fide No. 2 option alongside Bueckers. Strong can carry the ball coast to coast like a guard, pick-and-pop for three, and uses her quick hands to steal the ball from opponents. The Huskies have maximized her passing ability as well, using the 6-foot-2 forward as a playmaking hub in the high post. It's been nearly a decade since the school captured its last national championship, but Strong might be the missing piece to the puzzle.</p><h3>Mikayla Blakes, Vanderbilt</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/cropped_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vanderbilt Athletics / University Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163094" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163094">Blakes</a> is another player making headlines in her debut season. The high-scoring Vanderbilt guard already has a pair of 50-point games on her resume. Blakes' 55-point outburst against Auburn last February broke Elena Delle Donne's Division I women's freshman record of 54 set in 2010. Blakes led a highly competitive SEC in scoring during conference play, posting 26.9 points on 46.9% shooting, including a 39.8% clip from deep. Her quick shot release, pull-up jumper, movement shooting, and ability to attack downhill have made the Commodores star one of the country's most lethal scorers.</p><p><strong>Honorable mentions: </strong>Georgia Amoore (Kentucky), Flau'Jae Johnson (LSU), Hailey Van Lith (TCU), Chloe Kitts (South Carolina)</p>

HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT - DECEMBER 21: JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans is defended by Paige Bueckers #5 and Morgan Cheli #23 of the Connecticut Huskies during the second half of an NCAA women's basketball game at the XL Center on December 21, 2024 in Hartford, Connecticut.

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Watkins, Bueckers headline stars to watch in NCAA women's tourney

The brackets have dropped, 68 teams are off to March Madness, and the rest of the Division I prog...

<p>The brackets have dropped, 68 teams are off to March Madness, and the rest of the Division I programs are left to wonder what might have been.</p><p>The NCAA Tournament selection committee made its choices Sunday and finalized the field for this year's event, albeit with a few controversial selections.</p><p>Here are five takeaways from Sunday's bracket release.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>SEC makes history</h3><p>The SEC has been touted as the best conference all season long, and the selection committee seemed to agree. The SEC sent a record-setting 14 schools to the Big Dance, surpassing the previous mark of 11 set by the Big East in 2011. Thirteen of its members were seeded at the same position or higher in the NCAA Tournament than they were in their own conference tourney. Auburn leads the pack as the No. 1 overall seed, with SEC Tournament winners Florida also joining the Tigers on the 1-line. The conference's lowest seed, Texas, will take on Xavier in the First Four to fight for the right to move into the Round of 64 as the 11-seed in the Midwest region. The SEC very well could snap its 13-year national title drought.</p><h3>North Carolina, Xavier catch a break</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774462/cropped_GettyImages-2043543982.jpg?ts=1741625955" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774462/w220xh124_GettyImages-2043543982.jpg?ts=1741625955 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774462/w320xh180_GettyImages-2043543982.jpg?ts=1741625955 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774462/w640xh360_GettyImages-2043543982.jpg?ts=1741625955 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774462/w768xh432_GettyImages-2043543982.jpg?ts=1741625955 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774462/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2043543982.jpg?ts=1741625955 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Grant Halverson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Both North Carolina and Xavier will play in the NCAA Tournament despite having just one Quad 1 win each this season. Their recent run certainly played a role: The Tar Heels won eight of their last 10 games, with both defeats coming to top-seeded Duke, while Xavier rattled off seven straight victories before falling to Marquette last Thursday in the Big East Tournament quarterfinals. But it's fair to question the committee's decision, especially with West Virginia and Indiana each boasting far more quality victories on their resumes. There's also the fact that North Carolina athletic director Bubba Cunningham is also the chairman of the selection committee. Cunningham <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1901405707162820807">says</a> he wasn't in the room for any discussions involving North Carolina, while vice chairman Keith Gill added that the Tar Heels would've been knocked out of the field had UAB upset Memphis in the AAC Tournament final.</p><h3>East Region loaded with firepower</h3><p>The East Region is stocked with elite offensive units. Duke, Alabama, BYU, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Baylor are all ranked in the top 16 for adjusted offensive efficiency, per <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>. Blue Devils forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> headlines the players to watch in the region. The presumptive first overall pick is one of the most versatile players in the sport, showcasing playmaking ability, guard-like ball-handling skills, and above-the-rim finishing. Bears freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121790" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121790">VJ Edgecombe</a> is another one to keep tabs on. The potential top-five pick is an elite athlete who gets to the rim at will and has grown more comfortable shooting the ball from distance. Nate Oats' Crimson Tide boast the nation's highest-scoring offense for the second straight season, led by All-American guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/93780" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/93780">Mark Sears</a>. The Cougars and Badgers have their share of outside threats that can quickly put a game out of reach, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87457" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87457">Caleb Love</a> can shoot the Wildcats to a deep run or early exit. Regardless of who comes out of the East, there will never be a dull moment.</p><h3>Houston gets 2nd-round trap</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747981/cropped_GettyImages-2123832529.jpg?ts=1727818913" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747981/w220xh124_GettyImages-2123832529.jpg?ts=1727818913 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747981/w320xh180_GettyImages-2123832529.jpg?ts=1727818913 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747981/w640xh360_GettyImages-2123832529.jpg?ts=1727818913 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747981/w768xh432_GettyImages-2123832529.jpg?ts=1727818913 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747981/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2123832529.jpg?ts=1727818913 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mike Mulholland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Houston's reward for claiming the No. 1 seed in the Midwest once again is a potential second-round contest with Gonzaga. One of the top seeds in the bracket was bound to get the Bulldogs as a possible bracket-busting 8-seed, and it turns out the Cougars drew the short straw Sunday. Mark Few's program might be one of the most dangerous 8-seeds we've ever seen, as this year's Bulldogs rank ninth in the nation in KenPom's efficiency rankings. Houston sits third on the same list, so the potential for a second-round matchup between two top-10 teams is very real.</p><p>The contrast of styles could also make things tricky for the top seed in a second-round matchup. The Cougars bring their brand of hard-nosed defense that forces teams into bad decisions from tipoff until the final whistle. But Gonzaga is the best team in the nation at turnover-to-assist ratio and ranks 10th best in turnovers per game. If veteran point guard Ryan Nembhard can handle Houston's defense, a second-round upset is a distinct possibility.</p><h3>Big Ten title didn't impress committee</h3><p>The Big Ten sent the second-most teams to the NCAA Tournament this season, but the school that won the conference tournament is a ... 5-seed? That's right, Michigan will head to the tournament holding down the No. 5 spot in the South Region despite beating Wisconsin on Sunday to win the Big Ten tourney. That came on the heels of finishing 14-6 in conference play during the regular season - a mark that tied the Badgers for second overall.</p><p>Somehow that wasn't enough in the eyes of the committee. To add insult to injury, the Wolverines aren't even in the top four Big Ten seeds. Michigan State, Maryland, Wisconsin and Purdue all garnered better seeds than Dusty May's program in the bracket.</p><p>The first-round matchup with UC San Diego is also no reward for Michigan, as the Tritons' swarming defense should create problems for the Wolverines. Michigan ranks 346th of 364 teams at the Division I level in turnovers per game. UC San Diego could feast on that - the Tritons are sixth in the country in the same category.</p>

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Takeaways from NCAA tourney bracket release

Iowa State guard Keshon Gilbert will miss this year's NCAA Tournament due to a groin injury, a te...

<p>Iowa State guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96005" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96005">Keshon Gilbert</a> will miss this year's NCAA Tournament due to a groin injury, a team spokesman confirmed to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44281982/no-3-iowa-state-loses-star-keshon-gilbert-tournament-run">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><p>Gilbert has missed four of the past seven games because of the injury. The senior has been a key part of the Cyclones' success this season, leading the team in both minutes (31.6 per contest) and assists (4.1).</p><p>Gilbert ranks second on the squad in scoring (13.4) and third in steals (1.7). He was shooting a career-high 48.4% from the field.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gilbert was an All-Big 12 third-team selection and one of 25 players on the midseason Wooden Award watch list.</p><p>"We decided that he needs to focus on his rehab and getting his body back right," head coach T.J Otzelberger told reporters Sunday.</p><p>Iowa State earned a 3-seed in the NCAA Tournament and will take on No. 14 Lipscomb in its first-round matchup.</p><p>The Cyclones reached the Sweet 16 last season.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - MARCH 12: Iowa State Cyclones guard Keshon Gilbert (10) in the first half of a Big 12 tournament game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and Iowa State Cyclones on March 12, 2025 at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, MO.

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Iowa State's Gilbert out for NCAA tourney

Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga plans to return Thursday against the Sacramento Ki...

<p>Golden State Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> plans to return Thursday against the Sacramento Kings, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1899567493209018402">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Kuminga hasn't played since Jan. 4 because of a sprained ankle. The Warriors have gone 19-12 during that span.</p><p>"It's a really difficult thing when you are playing really well and have a key guy coming back," Kerr told reporters Saturday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44210450/warriors-jonathan-kuminga-ankle-plans-return-thursday-sources-say">ESPN's Charania and Ohm Youngmisuk</a>. "It's always tough. I think the idea is just bring him along slowly, play him in short bursts, help him get his rhythm back.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"But we got to keep playing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102773" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102773">Gui Santos</a>, keep playing the guys who are helping us win now. Usually this stuff has to kind of play out so we will hope that it plays out."</p><p>Kuminga was having a solid campaign before he was sidelined, averaging a career-high 16.8 points, five boards, and 2.2 assists across 32 appearances.</p><p>Golden State has risen to sixth in the West since acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>, posting a 12-2 mark with the six-time All-Star in the fold.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 04: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball against the Memphis Grizzlies during the first half at Chase Center on January 04, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Report: Warriors' Kuminga expects to return Thursday vs. Kings

Florida State hired Sacramento Kings assistant Luke Loucks as its next head coach, the school's v...

<p>Florida State hired Sacramento Kings assistant Luke Loucks as its next head coach, the school's vice president and athletic director, Michael Alford, announced Sunday.</p><p>Loucks agreed to a five-year deal with his alma mater, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/1898740803683446869">CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein</a>.</p><p>The 34-year-old will replace longtime head coach Leonard Hamilton, who's stepping down following 23 seasons with the program.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Luke will bring a unique combination of qualities to our program, and I'm excited to begin the next chapter of our basketball history under his leadership," Alford said in a statement. "Throughout basketball at both the professional and collegiate levels, Luke has earned a reputation as one of the rising stars in coaching.</p><p>"Having been a key part of some of the best of what FSU basketball has been as a player, he also brings proven ability to develop players at the highest level of the sport."</p><p>Loucks spent the past three seasons as an assistant with the Kings. He also had a five-year stint with the Golden State Warriors working various roles.</p><p>Loucks played at Florida State from 2008-2012. He then played four seasons professionally with stops in Latvia, Cyprus, Belgium, and Germany in addition to the G League.</p><p>"I am incredibly honored and excited for the opportunity to become the head coach for the Florida State men's basketball team," Loucks said in a statement. "FSU has a rich basketball tradition, and I look forward to building on the legacy of our previous coaches, especially Coach Hamilton.</p><p>"I'd like to thank the Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors for providing me with a strong coaching foundation. I'm eager to build our coaching staff with the best and brightest basketball coaches in America."</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 16: Assistant Coach Luke Loucks of the Sacramento Kings coaches Domantas Sabonis #11 and Malik Monk #0 during the game against the Houston Rockets on January 16, 2025 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, 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 the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Florida State hires Kings' Loucks as head coach

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James will miss at least one-to-two weeks with a groin strain...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> will miss at least one-to-two weeks with a groin strain, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1898772095259250693">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>James will wait for the injury to calm down before receiving another evaluation over the next 24 hours, Charania adds. He was officially ruled out for Monday's game against the Brooklyn Nets.</p><p>The four-time Finals MVP would miss a minimum of four contests under the reported timeline, including matchups against the Milwaukee Bucks and Denver Nuggets.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>James sustained the ailment midway through the fourth quarter of Saturday's 111-101 defeat to the Boston Celtics and did not return.</p><p>The 40-year-old suffered a similar groin injury during his first season with the Lakers but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3237214" href="https://thescore.com/news/3237214">doesn't</a> expect to be out as long. James also didn't hear a "pop" as he did the last time he injured his groin, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1898780945383342509">Charania</a>.</p><p>James had been playing some of his best basketball as of late, averaging 28.2 points, 10.4 boards, 6.7 assists, and one steal over his last 13 appearances.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 08: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers gets into position during the second half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on March 08, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Boston Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 111-101.