Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green will miss at least one week after an MRI confirmed a...

Golden State Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> will miss at least one week after an MRI confirmed a left calf strain, the team announced Monday.The injury will keep Green out of Monday's contest against the Boston Celtics, as well as upcoming matchups versus the Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Lakers.Green sustained the injury three minutes into Saturday's tilt against the Washington Wizards and didn't return.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Green's calf has been a lingering issue, per <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1880797626628714607">The Athletic's Anthony Slater</a>.The four-time All-Star is averaging 8.4 points, six rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.1 blocks, and one steal across 34 appearances.Golden State sits 11th in the West with a 21-20 record entering Monday's play.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 09: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors looks on against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on January 09, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Warriors' Green out at least 1 week with calf strain

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo is out indefinitely after suffering a left great to...

Minnesota Timberwolves guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45225" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45225">Donte DiVincenzo</a> is out indefinitely after suffering a left great toe injury against the Golden State Warriors on Jan. 15, the team announced Monday.DiVincenzo underwent an MRI which revealed a Grade 3 left great toe sprain. He and the team are seeking a second opinion to determine the best course of action.Minnesota acquired DiVincenzo from the New York Knicks in an offseason blockbuster trade featuring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Villanova product averaged 11 points, 3.7 boards, 3.6 assists, and 1.2 steals across 40 appearances. DiVincenzo was hitting his stride after being moved into the T-Wolves' starting lineup, tallying 17.5 points per contest and shooting 42.1% from deep over his last six appearances.DiVincenzo missed the past two games ahead of Monday's injury announcement.

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 13: Donte DiVincenzo #0 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game on October 13, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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T-Wolves' DiVincenzo out indefinitely with toe injury

San Antonio Spurs rookie Stephon Castle has committed to compete in this year's Slam Dunk contest...

San Antonio Spurs rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121685" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121685">Stephon Castle</a> has committed to compete in this year's Slam Dunk contest, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1881380733811609839">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The 6-foot-6 guard recorded a 37-inch max vertical leap at last year's draft combine and already has a share of highlight-reel jams in his debut campaign.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
STEPH ARE YOU KIDDING?!? 🤯🤯🤯 <a href="https://t.co/5B7FgYt7WG">pic.twitter.com/5B7FgYt7WG</a>— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) <a href="https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1843466429313785963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>No Spurs player has ever won the Slam Dunk contest. The team's last representative in the All-Star Weekend's marquee event was Greg Anderson in 1988.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Castle has been one of the NBA's top rookies. He's tallied the most steals (31) among first-year players and ranks third in both scoring (11.6 points per contest) and assists (3.6).Various injuries have given Castle an opportunity to start. The UConn product is averaging 14.9 points across 23 appearances in the Spurs' first five.San Antonio selected Castle with the No. 4 overall pick in last year's draft.

SAN ANTONIO, TX - NOVEMBER 21: Stephon Castle #5 of the San Antonio Spurs dunks on the Utah Jazz in the second half at Frost Bank Center on November 21, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Report: Spurs rookie Castle commits to Slam Dunk contest

LeBron James knows the Los Angeles Lakers can't afford to make any sloppy mistakes with the curre...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> knows the Los Angeles Lakers can't afford to make any sloppy mistakes with the current state of the roster."That's how our team is constructed," James said Sunday after the team's 116-102 defeat to the Los Angeles Clippers, according to <a href="https://www.latimes.com/sports/lakers/story/2025-01-20/lebron-james-lakers-roster-perfect-games">Dan Woike of The Los Angeles Times</a>. "We don't have room for error - for much error."James added, "We don't have a choice. I mean ... that's the way our team is constructed. And we have to, we have to play close-to-perfect basketball."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Lakers head coach JJ Redick echoed James' comments and stressed the importance of fundamentals to compensate for the squad's flaws."We don't have a huge margin for error. Nor can we create that margin organically," Redick said. "It has to be emphasized daily to touch the paint, to play paint-to-great mentality, make the extra pass. We don't have a guy on our team that's going to necessarily always draw two to the ball. We don’t have a guy on our team that's going to be able to get past his guy one-on-one and get to the paint and spread it out to the perimeter."Like, that's just not our team. So we have to do it through connectivity, through execution. And when we do that, we're really good."Two of the Lakers' biggest weaknesses were on display against their crosstown rivals as they shot only 9-of-27 from deep and were outmatched in the paint against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52287" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52287">Ivica Zubac</a>.Ty Lue's second-ranked defense racked up 12 steals against the Lakers and scored 21 points off turnovers.The Clippers led by as many as 26 points. The Lakers cut the deficit to 11 with 8:04 remaining but couldn't pull any closer.The Lakers have dropped four of their past six games and sit sixth in the West with a 22-18 record.

INGLEWOOD, CA - JANUARY 19: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball during the game against the LA Clippers on January 19, 2025 at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, 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 License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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LeBron: Lakers must play 'close to perfect' with current roster

UCLA head coach Mick Cronin made it clear that he believes his team has a harder Big Ten travel s...

UCLA head coach Mick Cronin made it clear that he believes his team has a harder Big Ten travel schedule than those in the East when asked about any potential wear and tear for programs having to travel to California."Wear and tear on them? Is that a joke?" Cronin <a href="https://youtu.be/Fcq_Y9nMZpY?si=I6RnR66AR0CG-Azf&amp;t=429">told</a> reporters Friday following the Bruins' 94-70 win over Iowa. "Please tell me that's a joke. ... Ask me UCLA's record east of the Mississippi in the last 20 years. Because when I got the job, I looked it up for scheduling purposes. It's under .500, OK."We have to go back (east) four times. Oh, the Big Ten teams get to come to Los Angeles where it's 70 degrees one time a year. They don't even have to switch hotels. (USC and UCLA are) 12 miles apart. Are you kidding me? Please tell me you're kidding me. I mean, is this a plant? Is this a planted question? I mean, you cannot be serious with that."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>UCLA, USC, Oregon, and Washington are the group of West Coast schools that left the Pac-12 for the Big Ten this season.It's been a rough transition for the Bruins as they sit in the middle of the pack with a 3-4 record in conference play.Cronin's squad dropped consecutive games to Maryland and Rutgers during its most recent road trip out east.UCLA's remaining schedule still includes back-to-back away contests against Illinois and Indiana, followed up by Purdue and Northwestern two weeks later.This year's Big Ten Tournament takes place in Indianapolis from March 12-16."We've seen the Statue of Liberty twice in the last three weeks while we were landing," Cronin said. "We also saw the Capitol building ... and then we've gotta go back for the Big Ten Tournament."I mean you can't possibly be serious. … They do it one time. Stop. ... I mean, he's asking me to feel sorry because Iowa had to come to L.A. for a few days."

PISCATAWAY, NJ - JANUARY 13: Mick Cronin head coach of the UCLA Bruins during the first half of the game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on January 13, 2025 at Jersey Mikes Arena in Piscataway, New Jersey.

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UCLA's Cronin rips Big Ten travel schedule

The Philadelphia 76ers announced Friday that star Joel Embiid will be sidelined at least 7-to-10 ...

The Philadelphia 76ers announced Friday that star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> will be sidelined at least 7-to-10 days after an increase in swelling in his left knee following a workout Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/PompeyOnSixers/status/1880296595612397569">Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer</a>.The ailment will keep him out of the 76ers' upcoming three-game road trip.Embiid has missed Philadelphia's last six games due to a left foot sprain. However, the club says the injury has healed, per <a href="https://x.com/MikeVorkunov/status/1880296024490881198">The Athletic's Mike Vorkunov</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>A series of injuries have limited Embiid to only 13 appearances this season. He's averaging 24.4 points, 7.9 boards, 3.8 assists, and one block.Philadelphia has started <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12400" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12400">Andre Drummond</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/162929" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/162929">Guerschon Yabusele</a> at the five in Embiid's absence.The 76ers sit 11th in the East with a 15-24 record. Their first-round pick in this year's draft is top-6 protected.

CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 08:Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers brings the ball up court during the second half against the Chicago Bulls on December 8, 2024 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

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Embiid out at least 7-10 days due to increased knee swelling

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley has agreed to a contract extension through the 2029-2030 ca...

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley has agreed to a contract extension through the 2029-2030 campaign, the school announced Friday.Staley's new $25.25-million deal will make her the highest-paid coach in women's college basketball history. Her contract includes an annual salary of $4 million, a $500,000 signing bonus, and an annual $250,000 escalator."I'm proud to represent the University of South Carolina and of its investment in women's basketball," Staley <a href="https://gamecocksonline.com/news/2025/01/17/south-carolina-staley-ink-historic-contract-extension/">said</a> in a statement. "What we've been able to accomplish on the court is a testament to what can happen when you bring together the right people from a team perspective but also have the right commitment from the university, the athletics department, and the community to providing that team with everything it needs to be successful."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>South Carolina has transformed into a powerhouse since Staley's hiring in 2008. The Gamecocks have gone 457-107, captured eight SEC Tournament crowns, and reached six Final Fours, including three national championship runs.South Carolina went undefeated for the first time in program history last season en route to its latest Division I title.Three-time MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/41039" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/41039">A'ja Wilson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/110192" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/110192">Aliyah Boston</a> are among the notable WNBA players to come out of Columbia during Staley's tenure."Dawn Staley is a once-in-a-generation coach who has made a tremendous impact on the University of South Carolina," athletics director Jeremiah Donati said in a statement. "She has elevated the sport of women's basketball on the national level and here on campus, and I am excited that she will be representing our university for many years to come."Staley's a four-time winner of the Naismith Coach of the Year. The Hall of Famer had a successful eight-year run at Temple before taking over at South Carolina.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - DECEMBER 08: Head coach Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks reacts against the TCU Horned Frogs during the second half in the USLBM Coast to Coast Challenge Hoopfest Women’s Basketball Classic at Dickies Arena on December 08, 2024 in Fort Worth, Texas.

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South Carolina makes Staley highest-paid coach in women's college hoops history

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is set to make his third straight All-Star appearance next month in San F...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> is set to make his third straight All-Star appearance next month in San Francisco, but he's hoping teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a> will be able to join him."At 6-4, he's able to guard all five positions on the basketball court," Gilgeous-Alexander said of Williams following the Thunder's 134-114 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/thunder-shai-gilgeous-alexander-nba-23e8ff34cd2191bc08992c85bd363806">Cliff Brunt of The Associated Press</a>. "Like tonight, he guarded a 7-footer. I could never. And a lot of guys our size could never."Those types of things directly impact winning, and we clearly are winning basketball games. Nobody has his print on us winning basketball games more than Jalen Williams, and that's why he deserves to be an All-Star."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Williams sits seventh in fan voting among West frontcourt players. Supporters account for 50% of the vote for All-Star starters, while players and a media panel split the remaining half.Williams' most likely route to the All-Star Game will be as a reserve, who are chosen by NBA head coaches.The starters will be unveiled Jan. 23, followed by the reserves a week later.Williams is averaging career highs across the board, including points (20.6 per contest), boards (5.7), assists (5.2), steals (1.8), and blocks (0.8). He's one of eight players in the league posting at least 20 points, five boards, five assists, and one steal per contest.Williams has also been a key part of the Thunder's top-ranked defense, racking up the third-most total steals (72) and deflections (148) in the Association. He's served as a small-ball five with starting center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Isaiah Hartenstein</a> out of the lineup.Cavs big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> went scoreless in Thursday's prime-time matchup when defended by Williams, per <a href="https://www.nba.com/game/cle-vs-okc-0022400574/box-score?dir=D&amp;sort=matchupMinutesSort&amp;type=matchups">NBA.com</a>.

MIAMI, FL - DECEMBER 20: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 and Duncan Robinson #55 and Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder smile during the game against the Miami Heat on December 20, 2024 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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SGA: Jalen Williams deserves to be All-Star

Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd believes the referees missed a goaltending call when Trey ...

Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd believes the referees missed a goaltending call when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96120">Trey Murphy</a> blocked <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11989" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11989">Spencer Dinwiddie</a>'s go-ahead layup attempt in the dying seconds of Wednesday's 119-116 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans."The league wants to get it right," Kidd told reporters postgame, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43434032/mavericks-say-non-call-apparent-goaltend-cost-game">ESPN</a>. "The referees have a tough job. They clearly did not get that right, and it cost us maybe the game."Video replays appeared to show that the ball made contact with the glass before Murphy got a hand on it. The Mavs were out of timeouts and could not challenge the call.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dallas has formally ruled out filing an official protest with the NBA, according to league insider <a href="https://x.com/TheSteinLine/status/1879963234138251596">Marc Stein</a>.The league later acknowledged the missed goaltending violation in its <a href="https://official.nba.com/l2m/L2MReport.html?gameId=0022400566">last-two-minute report</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Dallas Mavericks were down one point with four seconds left… Refs gave Trey Murphy III a block for this obvious goaltend. Mavs couldn’t challenge and they lose the game. If players and coaches can get fined, officials should receive fines too. <a href="https://t.co/XaZfYdTnaG">pic.twitter.com/XaZfYdTnaG</a>— Landon Thomas (@sixfivelando) <a href="https://twitter.com/sixfivelando/status/1879735415525216294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Dinwiddie says he purposely put the ball off the backboard to avoid a blocked shot."If people follow my career, and I beat the big or whatever, and I hold it out here, I put it directly on the glass for two reasons," Dinwiddie said. "One, I'm tall and long. I'm extending, so they have to jump over and block it."If you do happen to block it, it's already on the glass and I'm scoring. I've literally made a whole bunch of money doing that exact move."Murphy was subsequently fouled and converted both free-throw attempts to put the Pelicans up three points.Mavs forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/94259" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/94259">Naji Marshall</a> had a chance to tie the game, but his desperation heave from beyond half court fell short.Dallas has now dropped three consecutive games and eight of its past 10. The Mavericks sit seventh in the West with a 22-19 record, and the Pelicans remain last at 10-32.

DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 12: Head coach Jason Kidd of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the second quarter of the game against the Denver Nuggets at American Airlines Center on January 12, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. 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.

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Mavs' Kidd: Refs clearly missed goaltending call on Pels' Murphy

LeBron James says the ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles has taken a mental toll on him.  "I ha...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> says the ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles has taken a mental toll on him."I have a couple of dear friends that have lost their homes in the Palisades," James told reporters Wednesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43435260/lebron-james-addresses-fires-mental-toll-basks-fan-moment">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. "Obviously, my heart goes out to all of the families, all across not only the Palisades, but all across L.A. County and all the surrounding areas because of the fire. ... It's been a lot of emotions."He added, "I've just been completely off for obvious reasons, but hopefully things are contained or continue to be contained. And hopefully, at some point, we can start to push forward and move forward and put it behind us and rebuild our city, rebuild this beautiful city."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Various members of the Lakers organization have been affected by the tragic events.Head coach JJ Redick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3183144" href="https://thescore.com/news/3183144">lost</a> his family home in the Pacific Palisades fire. Redick's sons lost their entire memorabilia collection in the fire. The first-year coach expressed gratitude to former teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> after he and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> gave their game-worn jerseys to his children following Monday's contest against the Lakers.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A sweet moment after the Lakers-Spurs game: Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul gifted JJ Redick’s two sons their signed, game worn jerseys. Both boys love basketball and lost their collection of hoops memorabilia in the Palisades fire. <a href="https://t.co/Tp2uyJHYKW">pic.twitter.com/Tp2uyJHYKW</a>— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) <a href="https://twitter.com/malika_andrews/status/1879050335710584960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The childhood home of the Lakers' longtime videographer was also destroyed.The Lakers and 11 other Los Angeles-area pro sports teams have pledged to contribute more than $8 million in local relief efforts.James scored seven straight points down the stretch to help pull away from the Miami Heat in a 117-108 win for the Lakers on Wednesday. The four-time Finals MVP hopes the team can build on the performance and provide the people of Los Angeles a welcome escape."Sports has always given people an opportunity to kind of just like temporarily forget about whatever they may have been going through," James said. "And us being such a big part of the L.A. community - along with a lot of other sports teams, but we know how important the Lakers is to the community - hopefully we can provide that to a lot of families."

LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 15: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Miami Heat on January 15, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, 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 License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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LeBron feeling mental toll of L.A. wildfires: 'A lot of emotions'

A slow start proved costly for the Minnesota Timberwolves as they fell 116-115 to the Golden Stat...

A slow start proved costly for the Minnesota Timberwolves as they fell 116-115 to the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night.T-Wolves star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> says it's on him and the rest of the starting lineup to prevent this issue from lingering into the second half of the season."The start of games. Starting five. Like, we are terrible," Edwards <a href="https://youtu.be/_FeX9haNSGM?si=O-E7JXrPef1nMaaX&amp;t=256">told</a> reporters postgame. "Every game we come out just low energy. The second group comes in and gives us energy. So, I would say the starting group gotta come out with more energy. Like we want to play the game of basketball. Like we love the game."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Minnesota is averaging 27.1 points in the first quarter, which is tied for 22nd in the NBA.Another sluggish effort out of the gates resulted in Golden State jumping out to a 34-12 lead before the home side slowly clawed back into the contest.Minnesota tied the game at 108 with 1:07 remaining, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> drilled a step-back triple on the ensuing possession to put the Warriors ahead for good."They came out with energy. They came out how we should've come out," said T-Wolves guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45225" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45225">Donte DiVincenzo</a> postgame, according to <a href="https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-timberwolves-golden-state-warriors-donte-divincenzo-steph-curry-anthony-edwards/601206572">Chris Miller of The Minnesota Star Tribune</a>. "There's no excuses. I think we just have to be better to start the game."

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 15: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game against the Golden State Warriors on January 15, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Ant bemoans T-Wolves habit: 'We are terrible' at start of games

The Seattle Storm extended a core qualifying offer to Gabby Williams, the WNBA announced Tuesday....

The Seattle Storm extended a core qualifying offer to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/40631" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/40631">Gabby Williams</a>, the WNBA <a href="https://www.wnba.com/players/transactions?transaction=&amp;team=all&amp;month=0">announced</a> Tuesday.The designation allows Williams to sign a one-year qualifying offer at the WNBA's highest salary ($249,244) but prevents her from joining another team outright in free agency.All core-designated players can still be traded to another club. Teams have until Jan. 20 to extend a core qualifying offer.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Seattle's decision wasn't a surprise to Williams because she and her representatives have been working with the team in determining her next steps, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/43414791/sources-storm-using-core-designation-gabby-williams">ESPN's Kevin Pelton</a>.The Storm signed Williams late in the 2024 campaign following her standout performance for France at the Paris Olympics.Williams averaged 10.3 points, four boards, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 steals across 12 appearances last season. The UConn product was a WNBA All-Defensive second team selection in 2022.The Chicago Sky selected Williams with the No. 4 overall pick in 2018.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 22: Gabby Williams #5 of the Seattle Storm brings the ball up the court against the Las Vegas Aces in the first quarter of Game One of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs first round at Michelob ULTRA Arena on September 22, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Aces defeated the Storm 78-67.

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Storm designate Williams as core player

Jimmy Butler reiterated his desire to be traded during a face-to-face meeting last week with Miam...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> reiterated his desire to be traded during a face-to-face meeting last week with Miami Heat president of basketball operations Pat Riley, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43411900/sources-jimmy-butler-reiterates-trade-demand-heat-pat-riley">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Butler told Riley that he won't sign a new contract with the club and intends to use his $52-million player option for next season as a trade maneuver, Charania added.Heat officials will apparently meet later this week to discuss the best course of action with the disgruntled star.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Miami's front office has engaged with multiple teams on a potential trade but has been hesitant to negotiate further, sources told Charania.Riley also hasn't shown an urgency to deal the six-time All-Star, Charania reported.Butler's seven-game, team-issued <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3178790" href="https://thescore.com/news/3178790">suspension</a> for "multiple instances" of detrimental conduct is set to end Thursday. The Heat <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181460" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181460">reportedly</a> expect Butler to rejoin the club if he isn't traded by then.Miami has gone 3-3 during Butler's absence and sits seventh in the East entering Tuesday.Butler's averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 boards, 4.7 assists, and 1.2 steals across 22 appearances this season.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 27: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat and president Pat Riley speak to the media during his introductory press conference at American Airlines Arena on September 27, 2019 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: Butler reiterates trade request in meeting with Riley

College Basketball Full-Court Press recaps the most important developments from the sport and exa...

College Basketball Full-Court Press recaps the most important developments from the sport and examines their significance moving forward.<h3>SEC is a gauntlet</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764706/cropped_GettyImages-2186573973.jpg?ts=1736548193" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764706/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186573973.jpg?ts=1736548193 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764706/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186573973.jpg?ts=1736548193 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764706/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186573973.jpg?ts=1736548193 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764706/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186573973.jpg?ts=1736548193 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764706/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186573973.jpg?ts=1736548193 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Every SEC matchup is going to be a battle.The conference boasts nine ranked teams, including five top-10 squads. Eleven SEC schools are currently projected to make the NCAA Tournament, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/page/bracketology/ncaa-bracketology-2025-march-madness-men-field-predictions">ESPN bracketologist Joe Lunardi</a>. All 16 teams in the conference have reached double digits in wins.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Top-ranked Auburn leads the pack with its dominant two-way play. The Tigers have an NCAA-leading seven Quad 1 victories, including three straight wins during their run to the Maui Invitational championship. They're No. 1 in the nation in blocks (seven per contest), seventh in assists (18.6), and ninth in points (86.6). <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87250">Johni Broome</a> is the straw that stirs the drink. The leading Wooden Award candidate serves as the team's defensive anchor, rebounds at an elite level, and has improved vastly as a passer. The Tigers also have a handful of shooters to complement Broome's dominant low-post game, and first-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162002" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162002">Tahaad Pettiford</a> is emerging as a big-game player with 18.3 points per contest in Auburn's top-10 tilts.However, Broome <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3187206" href="https://thescore.com/news/3187206">sustained</a> a "significant" ankle sprain over the weekend, and the duration of his absence could have major implications in an evenly matched SEC. Florida held previously undefeated Tennessee to 43 points on 21.4% shooting. Georgia slowed down Kentucky's up-tempo offense to earn its first top-10 win in five years. Alabama's coming off its maiden Final Four appearance, boasts the NCAA's highest-scoring unit, and is led by All-American guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/93780" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/93780">Mark Sears</a>. Texas A&amp;M is building an impressive tournament resume that features ranked wins over Ohio State, Creighton, Purdue, and Oklahoma. Texas' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/163396" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/163396">Tre Johnson</a>, Oklahoma's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/163591" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/163591">Jeremiah Fears</a>, Arkansas' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/161991" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/161991">Boogie Fland</a>, and LSU's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162396" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162396">Vyctorius Miller</a> are among the nation's standout freshmen. South Carolina - last in the conference with a 10-6 overall record - recently took Auburn down to the wire. Whomever emerges with the SEC regular-season crown will have earned it.<h3>Duke more than just Flagg</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764719/cropped_GettyImages-2192528893.jpg?ts=1736560966" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764719/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192528893.jpg?ts=1736560966 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764719/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192528893.jpg?ts=1736560966 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764719/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192528893.jpg?ts=1736560966 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764719/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192528893.jpg?ts=1736560966 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764719/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192528893.jpg?ts=1736560966 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Lance King / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Duke cemented itself as a national contender when it became the only team to beat Auburn this season, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> has been the head of the snake on both ends of the floor, pacing the Blue Devils in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. The versatile 6-foot-9 forward can hit mid-range pull-up jumpers, finish above the rim, set up teammates out of the short roll, and has guard-like ball-handling skills. His latest performance was an all-around masterpiece - an ACC freshman-record 42 points to go along with seven assists, six boards, and one steal.But the Blue Devils are stocked with talent beyond Flagg. Fellow frosh <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162168" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162168">Kon Kneuppel</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162172" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162172">Khaman Maluach</a> are projected to be lottery picks in this year's draft. Kneuppel's a knock-down shooter and has been effective running the pick-and-roll. Meanwhile, Maluach is providing the team with a vertical lob threat and disruptive rim-protecting presence. Jon Scheyer is getting contributions from his upperclassmen as well. Junior guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103281" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103281">Tyrese Proctor</a> sits sixth in the ACC with 39 triples, fifth-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/89009" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/89009">Sion James</a> has the NCAA's fifth-best defensive box plus-minus (seven), and Syracuse transfer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103336" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103336">Maliq Brown</a> is a deflection machine.That defensive tenacity might just be the difference for Duke in March. The Blue Devils are the tallest team in Division I hoops and have length across the board. It's allowed Scheyer to deploy lineups that can switch one through five, and the proof is in the pudding. They're second in <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjDE">KenPom</a>'s rankings for adjusted defensive efficiency (87.8 points per 100 possessions), third in opponent 2-point field-goal percentage (40%), and sixth in points allowed (59.6).<h3>Iowa State an offensive juggernaut?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764909/cropped_GettyImages-2192448683.jpg?ts=1736657523" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764909/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192448683.jpg?ts=1736657523 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764909/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192448683.jpg?ts=1736657523 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764909/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192448683.jpg?ts=1736657523 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764909/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192448683.jpg?ts=1736657523 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764909/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192448683.jpg?ts=1736657523 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> David K Purdy / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Iowa State has prided itself on its aggressive, swarming defense since T.J. Otzelberger's hiring in 2021. It's made three consecutive NCAA Tournaments while finishing each campaign in KenPom's top 10 for adjusted defensive efficiency, including an NCAA-best 87.5 points allowed per 100 possessions during its Sweet 16 run in 2023-24. That formula remains a key part of the Cyclones' DNA as they continue to force turnovers at a high rate, which in turns leads to opportunities in transition.The difference this season is that they finally have the firepower to match their elite defense. Iowa State's averaging 86.2 points - nearly 11 more than the year prior - and is sixth on <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>'s rankings for adjusted offensive efficiency (123.5 points per 100 possessions). The Cyclones have cracked the 80-point mark in 13 of their first 15 games, which is already more than all of last season.Transfer portal additions <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103709" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103709">Joshua Jefferson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/89276" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/89276">Dishon Jackson</a> have brought some punch to the frontcourt, posting a combined 21.5 points, 13 boards, and 7.9 free-throw attempts per game. Having a pair of interior threats has kept opposing defenses honest and is freeing things up for Iowa State's guards. Fourth-year reserve <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96149" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96149">Curtis Jones</a> has been one of the biggest beneficiaries, tallying a team-high 17.3 points off the bench and the third-most triples (41) in the Big 12. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96005" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96005">Keshon Gibert</a> has also received a boost from the duo's arrival and is averaging career highs in points (16.1), assists (4.7), field-goal percentage (52.2%), and free-throw attempts (5.9).<h3>Transition three</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764698/cropped_GettyImages-2187557353.jpg?ts=1736545594" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764698/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187557353.jpg?ts=1736545594 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764698/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187557353.jpg?ts=1736545594 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764698/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187557353.jpg?ts=1736545594 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764698/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187557353.jpg?ts=1736545594 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764698/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187557353.jpg?ts=1736545594 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rutgers' fab freshmen: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162652" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162652">Dylan Harper</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162648" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162648">Ace Bailey</a> are living up to the hype. Harper is averaging a Big Ten-leading 20 points per game while applying constant rim pressure and finishing from all sorts of angles. He's shown solid decision-making as the Scarlet Knights' lead ball-handler, posting two assists for each turnover. Bailey isn't too far behind with 19 points per contest and a 34.7% clip from deep. The 6-foot-10 wing can attack downhill, plays hard on the defensive end, and is already an exceptional shot-maker. Harper and Bailey are only the second pair of freshman teammates over the last 15 years to each record a 35-point game in the same campaign, per statistician <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1875023997752274982">Jared Berson</a>. However, the star duo's individual success hasn't been enough, as Rutgers will miss the Big Dance barring a drastic turnaround. The Scarlet Knights could become the first school to miss the NCAA Tournament despite having two top-five NBA draft picks in the same season on the roster, per <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1877055517131936115">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>.UConn rebounding from Maui: The Huskies nearly fell out of the AP poll following a disastrous 0-3 showing at the Maui Invitational. They've since won nine of 10 games while defeating Baylor, Texas, and Gonzaga. UConn's balanced attack has been at the heart of the resurgence. The Huskies are averaging 80.2 points on 49.4% shooting - including a 37.7% clip from distance - during the recent run. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102538" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102538">Alex Karaban</a> is providing a steady source of scoring, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162131" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162131">Liam McNeeley</a> is showing the ability to take charge down the stretch, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/92653" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/92653">Hassan Diarra</a> is settling into his new role as the starting point guard. Sophomore guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110441" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110441">Solo Ball</a> has made the leap as well, developing into one of the country's top 3-point shooters. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/95594" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/95594">Samson Johnson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102849" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102849">Tarris Reed Jr.</a> are providing UConn with production at the five akin to its previous two campaigns. The Huskies' defense still isn't where it needs to be, but Dan Hurley's squad is in a much better place than it was leaving Hawaii.Mick Cronin's outburst: Things have gone south for UCLA after a promising 10-1 start to the season. The Bruins have dropped their last four Big Ten contests and suffered a 19-point defeat at home to No. 20 Michigan, after which Cronin put his players and coaching staff <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3183574" href="https://thescore.com/news/3183574">on blast</a> during his postgame press conference. It's not out of the ordinary for a coach to be brutally honest with the team, but those conversations are meant to be kept private and shouldn't be aired out publicly moments later. There was no accountability from the Bruins' head coach, either. Cronin's rant didn't provide the spark he hoped for. UCLA fell three nights later to Maryland, and his actions are still lingering in the locker room. How will future recruits view Cronin's open criticism of the roster and staff he assembled? This all could've been avoided had he just kept everything behind closed doors.

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CBB Full-Court Press: Auburn leads SEC slugfest

Auburn star Johni Broome won't need surgery after suffering a left ankle sprain during Saturday's...

Auburn star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87250">Johni Broome</a> won't need surgery after suffering a left ankle sprain during Saturday's 66-63 win over South Carolina, the school announced, according to <a href="https://x.com/TheAndyKatz/status/1878509105767219302">NCAA's Andy Katz</a>.Broome underwent an MRI on Sunday morning.Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl called the injury "significant" postgame on the SEC Network, per <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/1878173770600321227">ESPN's Jeff Borzello</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Broome suffered the injury in the second half when he landed on teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110217" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110217">Chaney Johnson</a>'s foot while attempting to corral a rebound. The fifth-year forward immediately screamed in pain and didn't put any weight on his left foot as he was helped off the court.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Johni Broome being helped off the court and into the locker room with what appeared to be a left ankle injury. <a href="https://t.co/At0Vt8FGBC">pic.twitter.com/At0Vt8FGBC</a>— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoodmanHoops/status/1878161606942597157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Broome has been a huge part of the Tigers' strong start and was widely considered the front-runner for the Wooden Award. He entered Saturday's matchup averaging 18.7 points, 11.2 boards, 3.4 assists, and 2.7 blocks across 15 appearances.His 10 double-doubles were tied for fourth in the nation.

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 11: Johni Broome #4 of the Auburn Tigers moves the ball against Benjamin Bosmans-Verdonk #31 of the South Carolina Gamecocks during the first half at Colonial Life Arena on January 11, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina.

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Auburn's Broome suffers ankle sprain, won't need surgery

The NBA is postponing both of Saturday's contests in Los Angeles because of the ongoing wildfires...

The NBA is postponing both of Saturday's contests in Los Angeles because of the ongoing wildfires in the area, the league announced Friday.The Los Angeles Lakers were set to take on the San Antonio Spurs, while the Los Angeles Clippers were scheduled to face the Charlotte Hornets.The rescheduled dates for each tilt will be announced at a later time.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"The NBA and the Clippers and Lakers organizations have been in communication with local officials in Los Angeles and Inglewood about the ongoing situation in the Los Angeles area and the game postponements ensure no resources will be diverted from the wildfire response efforts," the league <a href="https://x.com/NBAPR/status/1877924740435677186">said</a> in a statement.The NBA <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3184780" href="https://thescore.com/news/3184780">previously</a> called off Thursday's contest between the Hornets and Lakers.No decision has been made regarding a second matchup between the Lakers and Spurs on Monday. A spokesman for San Antonio described the status as "a fluid situation," according to <a href="https://x.com/tom_orsborn/status/1877933012165198265">Tom Osborn of The San Antonio Express-News</a>."We fully support the decision to postpone tomorrow's Spurs-Lakers game," said Spurs CEO R.C. Buford in a statement. "It's beyond heartbreaking to see the widespread devastation across the Los Angeles community. Our thoughts remain with all of those impacted by the wildfires, from families who have experienced incomprehensible loss to the first responders who continue to bravely fight on the front lines."Meanwhile, the Clippers later <a href="https://x.com/LAClippers/status/1877937511369949630">announced</a> that Monday's contest against the Miami Heat and Wednesday's game versus the Brooklyn Nets will go on as scheduled.The tragic events in the Los Angeles area have affected members of the Lakers, including head coach JJ Redick. Redick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3186150" href="https://thescore.com/news/3186150">confirmed</a> Friday that his family's home was lost in the Pacific Palisades fire.Lakers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> donated $20,000 to the team's longtime videographer, whose childhood home was destroyed in the fire, according to <a href="https://www.tmz.com/2025/01/10/anthony-davis-donation-lakers-videographer/?adid=social-tw">TMZ Sports</a>.

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 27: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs blocks out Anthony Davis #3 and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the first quarter at Frost Bank Center on November 27, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas.

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NBA postpones pair of matchups in L.A. due to ongoing wildfires

Philadelphia 76ers rookie Jared McCain will miss the remainder of the campaign after undergoing s...

Philadelphia 76ers rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121672" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121672">Jared McCain</a> will miss the remainder of the campaign after undergoing surgery on his left knee last month, the team announced Thursday, per <a href="https://x.com/KyleNeubeck/status/1877519242377003124">Kyle Neubeck of PHLY Sports</a>.McCain was initially ruled out indefinitely after suffering a torn meniscus Dec. 13 against the Indiana Pacers.Veteran guards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/199" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/199">Eric Gordon</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/874" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/874">Reggie Jackson</a> have seen increased minutes off the bench during McCain's absence.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McCain was arguably the Rookie of the Year front-runner at the time of his injury.The Duke product averaged 15.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 boards across 23 appearances. He shot 38.3% from deep and 46% from the field overall.The 76ers selected McCain with the No. 16 overall pick in last year's draft.Philadelphia sits 11th in the East with a 15-20 record.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 13: Jared McCain #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during a game against the Indiana Pacers at the Wells Fargo Center on December 13, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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76ers' McCain to miss rest of season

The tennis offseason has come and gone in a blur.  The world's top players have been in Australia...

The tennis offseason has come and gone in a blur.The world's top players have been in Australia and New Zealand for the past few weeks preparing for the year's first major.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/9576" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/9576">Jannik Sinner</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9379" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9379">Aryna Sabalenka</a> kicked off their breakthrough 2024 campaigns with an Australian Open crown. Will lightning strike twice for the tournament's top seeds?<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The duo's respective title defenses are among the storylines to watch Down Under when main-draw action begins Saturday.<h3>Djokovic takes another run at No. 25</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763725/cropped_GettyImages-2192249111.jpg?ts=1736098283" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763725/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192249111.jpg?ts=1736098283 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763725/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192249111.jpg?ts=1736098283 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763725/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192249111.jpg?ts=1736098283 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763725/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192249111.jpg?ts=1736098283 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763725/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192249111.jpg?ts=1736098283 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Chris Hyde / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/382" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/382">Novak Djokovic</a> had a strange 2024 season. The 37-year-old broke Roger Federer's record as the oldest World No. 1 in ATP history and surpassed the Swiss Maestro's mark for the most Grand Slam quarterfinals in men's singles play. He finally completed the career Golden Slam last summer with a thrilling straight-sets victory over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/9643" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/9643">Carlos Alcaraz</a> at the Paris Olympics, just two months after undergoing surgery for a torn meniscus. It was also disappointing by Djokovic's standards, as he failed to capture an ATP Tour title for the first time in 19 years and came up short in his quest for the all-time lead in major singles championships.Djokovic has another chance to win his 25th Grand Slam at the major that's been the kindest to him. The Serbian superstar is 94-9 at the Australian Open with 10 of his 24 major trophies coming at Melbourne Park. He's made the semifinals or better at the Happy Slam in each of his previous five appearances.But it's clear Djokovic is still searching for answers. The former World No. 1 made the intriguing decision to bring on Andy Murray as his coach, even though the latter has no previous experience. Djokovic is also coming off a surprising 7-6 (6), 6-3 quarterfinals loss to Reilly Opelka at the Brisbane International. Djokovic doesn't have the benefit of a top-two seed this time. He managed to avoid a potential Sinner matchup until the final but was drawn into the same quarter as Alcaraz.<h3>Coco bouncing back</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763726/cropped_GettyImages-2185270940.jpg?ts=1736098390" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763726/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185270940.jpg?ts=1736098390 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763726/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185270940.jpg?ts=1736098390 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763726/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185270940.jpg?ts=1736098390 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763726/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185270940.jpg?ts=1736098390 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763726/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185270940.jpg?ts=1736098390 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9564" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9564">Coco Gauff</a>'s last match on the Grand Slam stage was one she'd like to forget. The American concluded a rough summer hard-court stretch with 19 double faults in a round of 16 defeat to Emma Navarro at the US Open. She subsequently parted ways with coach Brad Gilbert and brought in Matt Daly to work alongside Jean-Christophe Faurel. The results were immediate, as Gauff won the China Open in their first tournament together, reached the semifinals in Wuhan a week later, and came out on top at the season-ending WTA Tour Finals.Gauff rode that momentum into 2025 with five straight-sets wins for Team USA at the United Cup, including a second consecutive victory over rival <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9550" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9550">Iga Swiatek</a>. It's no coincidence that Gauff has righted the ship with Daly aboard. The ex-collegiate tennis player is a renowned grip specialist and has been working with Gauff on changing her extreme western grip. The offseason gave Gauff enough time to fully implement those changes, and she's now reaping the rewards. The 20-year-old's second serve has become more reliable, and opponents can no longer target her forehand side, which has suddenly become a weapon. The sky's the limit now that Gauff seems to have ironed out her biggest weaknesses.<h3>Defending champs look to maintain dominance</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764326/cropped_GettyImages-1959816745.jpg?ts=1736373070" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764326/w220xh124_GettyImages-1959816745.jpg?ts=1736373070 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764326/w320xh180_GettyImages-1959816745.jpg?ts=1736373070 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764326/w640xh360_GettyImages-1959816745.jpg?ts=1736373070 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764326/w768xh432_GettyImages-1959816745.jpg?ts=1736373070 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764326/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1959816745.jpg?ts=1736373070 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> DAVID GRAY / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Sinner's performance in Australia was a sign of things to come. The 23-year-old won 73 matches, added the US Open to his trophy cabinet, led Italy to a second straight Davis Cup crown, and captured the season-ending ATP Finals. He also went the entire season without a straight-sets loss, joining Roger Federer as the only men to accomplish the feat. The fast courts at Melbourne Park suit Sinner's style of play and will make him an even tougher out. Sinner will continue to face scrutiny after avoiding a suspension for two positive drug tests, but that didn't derail his championship bid in New York last year.Meanwhile, Sabalenka is looking to become the first woman to three-peat since Martina Hingis in 1999. She's made the second week of the Australian Open in each of her last four appearances and leads all active female players in win percentage at the Happy Slam. Sabalenka put all the pieces together in 2024, outmatching opponents with a mix of finesse and elite power. She's conquered her serving woes and heads into the fortnight fresh off a dominant title run in Brisbane.<h3>Is Osaka turning the corner?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764327/cropped_GettyImages-2192207446.jpg?ts=1736373195" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764327/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192207446.jpg?ts=1736373195 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764327/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192207446.jpg?ts=1736373195 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764327/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192207446.jpg?ts=1736373195 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764327/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192207446.jpg?ts=1736373195 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764327/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192207446.jpg?ts=1736373195 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Phil Walter / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/8967" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/8967">Naomi Osaka</a>'s return to the WTA Tour last season didn't go according to plan. The four-time Grand Slam champ struggled to find any consistency, going just 20-16 and advancing no further than the second round at the majors. She parted ways with coach Wim Fissette in September and joined forces with Patrick Mouratoglou, who famously guided Serena Williams to 10 Grand Slam trophies.Osaka was honest about her long-term future in the sport ahead of her season-opening tournament in Auckland, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3173166" href="https://thescore.com/news/3173166">saying</a> she wouldn't "hang around" tennis if the results didn't match her high expectations. The Japanese star sure played with a sense of urgency in New Zealand, dropping just one set en route to her first tournament final in three years. Osaka showed flashes of her old self, winning free points off her serve and overpowering opponents from the baseline with her forehand.An abdominal injury forced Osaka to retire from the ASB Classic final after taking the opening set. The 27-year-old is "<a href="https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/injured-osaka-very-optimistic-about-australian-open-2025-01-06/">very optimistic</a>" about her chances of playing at the year's first major. No high seed wants to be drawn against the two-time Australian Open winner, especially with her recent form.<h3>New partnerships try their luck</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764328/cropped_GettyImages-2191432791.jpg?ts=1736373305" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764328/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191432791.jpg?ts=1736373305 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764328/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191432791.jpg?ts=1736373305 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764328/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191432791.jpg?ts=1736373305 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764328/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191432791.jpg?ts=1736373305 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764328/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191432791.jpg?ts=1736373305 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Robert Prange / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Djokovic, Gauff, and Osaka aren't the only notable players with new coaches in the fold.Swiatek added Fissette to her team last October prior to the year-end WTA Finals. The Belgian's credentials are well known even beyond his successful partnership with Osaka. He guided countrywoman Kim Clijsters to three major championships and Angelique Kerber to the 2018 Wimbledon crown.Goran Ivanisevic joined <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/9666" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/9666">Elena Rybakina</a>'s inner circle less than a year after his decorated five-year run with Djokovic ended. The 2001 winner at the All England Club has a wealth of coaching experience on the ATP Tour but has never worked with a player on the WTA circuit. Ivanisevic was known for his booming serve during his playing days and may be able to further weaponize Rybakina's power.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/9498" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/9498">Hubert Hurkacz</a> made two major splashes in hopes of a major breakthrough, hiring Ivan Lendl and Nicholas Massu. Lendl was instrumental in lifting Murray over the hump, working alongside the Scot for all three Grand Slam titles. Meanwhile, Massu is an Olympic gold medalist and reached as high as No. 9 in the ATP rankings. He coached Dominic Thiem to his lone major title win at the 2020 US Open.Each player's showing over the next two weeks could determine whether these partnerships continue beyond the Australian Open.

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Djokovic's bid for 25th major among storylines heading into Aussie Open

The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 129-122 Wednesday night in a back-and-...

The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 129-122 Wednesday night in a back-and-forth showdown between the NBA's two hottest teams.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a> tallied 25 points, 11 boards, and six assists to help the Cavs seal their second 11-game winning streak this season.Frontcourt partner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> finished just shy of a triple-double as well, posting 21 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Seven different Cavs players tallied double digits in scoring, including all five starters.Cleveland drilled 41.7% of its 3-point attempts and shot 52.2% from the field against the NBA's top-ranked defense.The Cavs improved to 32-4, which is tied for the fifth-best 36-game start in NBA history.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> added 31 points, five boards, four assists, and three steals for Oklahoma City in a losing cause.It's the Thunder's first league defeat since Dec. 1 when they fell 119-116 to the Houston Rockets. Their NBA Cup finals loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Dec. 17 didn't count toward the standings.The highly anticipated matchup featured eight ties and 30 lead changes. No team led by more than nine points.The Cavs and Thunder will square off again Jan. 16 in Oklahoma City.

CLEVELAND, OH - JANUARY 8: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers high fives Darius Garland #10 during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 8, 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' streak reaches 11 games after topping Thunder in showdown

College Basketball Full-Court Press recaps the most important developments from the sport and examines their significance moving forward.<h3>Hidalgo leads Wooden Award race</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762689/cropped_GettyImages-2191692208.jpg?ts=1735503851" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762689/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191692208.jpg?ts=1735503851 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762689/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191692208.jpg?ts=1735503851 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762689/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191692208.jpg?ts=1735503851 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762689/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191692208.jpg?ts=1735503851 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762689/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191692208.jpg?ts=1735503851 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Much of the Wooden Award talk entering this season centered around UConn's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Paige Bueckers</a> and USC's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">JuJu Watkins</a>. Both players are off to solid starts, but it's Notre Dame star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111974" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111974">Hannah Hidalgo</a> who's emerging as the clear favorite for National Player of the Year.The Fighting Irish have non-conference wins over the Huskies and Trojans, and Hidalgo stole the show on both occasions. The 5-foot-6 guard outdueled Watkins in Los Angeles with 24 points, eight assists, six rebounds, and five steals, and she then became the first player over the past 25 seasons to have multiple 25-point, 10-rebound, and five-assist games versus UConn.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Hidaldo's scoring and efficiency are up significantly with a healthy <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97805" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97805">Olivia Miles</a> again taking primary facilitating duties. The sophomore is the NCAA's second-highest scorer (25.9 points per game) and sits 11th in 3-point percentage (45.7%). She's on pace to lead the nation in steals for the second straight season and needed only 45 appearances to reach 200 career steals, tying a Division I record over the last 25 campaigns.<h3>UCLA is real deal</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762928/cropped_GettyImages-2188931391.jpg?ts=1735613999" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762928/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188931391.jpg?ts=1735613999 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762928/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188931391.jpg?ts=1735613999 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762928/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188931391.jpg?ts=1735613999 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762928/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188931391.jpg?ts=1735613999 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762928/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188931391.jpg?ts=1735613999 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>UCLA was a popular preseason pick to win it all despite never reaching a Final Four, and its upset victory over then-No. 1 South Carolina cemented the Bruins as a national contender. Cori Close's squad held the defending champs to a season-low 62 points on 36.4% shooting, won the rebounding battle by seven, tallied 15 points off turnovers, and had five different players register double digits in scoring.That signature win in November highlighted the formula to UCLA's 15-0 start. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104621" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104621">Lauren Betts</a> leads a group of eight players with at least 7.3 points per contest. The team's size and length across the board have made them the No. 2 defensive team, per <a href="https://barttorvik.com/ncaaw/?sort=AdjDE&amp;begin=20241101&amp;end=20250501&amp;conlimit=All&amp;year=2025&amp;top=0&amp;hteam=&amp;quad=5&amp;rpi=#">Barttorvik.com</a>. The Bruins rank second in opponent field-goal percentage (32.4%), 10th in points allowed (52.9), and are outrebounding their counterparts by an average of 18.4.UCLA's success revolves around Betts. The 6-foot-7 junior is growing more comfortable demanding the ball and operates with patience down low. She has the strength to seal off defenders and can score over either shoulder. Betts also has the awareness to kick the ball out and re-post whenever defenses initially stop her. Teams have to think twice when doubling the imposing center. She's more than capable of finding the open player when swarmed, and the Bruins have enough 3-point threats to keep defenses honest. Her two-man game with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104602" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104602">Kiki Rice</a> is flourishing, too. Opponents have to respect Rice's downhill speed as well as her playmaking ability when she's operating out of high ball screens with Betts.<h3>USC rounding into form</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763177/cropped_GettyImages-2192061332.jpg?ts=1735770297" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763177/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192061332.jpg?ts=1735770297 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763177/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192061332.jpg?ts=1735770297 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763177/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192061332.jpg?ts=1735770297 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763177/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192061332.jpg?ts=1735770297 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763177/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192061332.jpg?ts=1735770297 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Luiza Moraes / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Bruins aren't the only team in Los Angeles making noise.USC has bounced back from an early-season home defeat to Notre Dame with 10 straight wins, including a pair of top-25 victories. The most notable result was a thrilling 72-70 triumph against UConn, which featured standout performances from both Watkins and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97058" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97058">Kiki Iriafen</a>. Watkins became the first player to post a 25-5-5-3 stat line on the road versus an AP top-five opponent, while Iriafen added 16 points, 11 boards, and a career-high six assists.Watkins has been on a tear over the last 10 games, averaging 26.7 points, 6.1 boards, 3.7 assists, two steals, and 1.6 blocks. The sophomore guard continues to single-handedly take over games with her shot-making ability, playmaking prowess, and strong defensive play, and her improved decision-making is boosting her shooting percentages and cutting down turnovers. Iriafen is settling in, too, following her offseason transfer to the Trojans. The 6-foot-3 forward has posted 18.4 points and 9.6 boards per contest to go along with five double-doubles during the school's winning streak. She's relentless on the glass and an anchor for one of the stingiest teams.USC's star duo can measure up against anybody, but they'll need contributions from others to break the school's 39-year Final Four drought. Senior forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/96940" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/96940">Rayah Marshall</a> has been a constant rim-protecting presence throughout her career, while freshman guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163005" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163005">Kennedy Smith</a> has flashed a 3-and-D skill set since her return from injury. Big Ten play will go a long way in determining if anyone can step up alongside Watkins and Iriafen.<h3>Transition three</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762954/cropped_GettyImages-2189960048.jpg?ts=1735617868" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762954/w220xh124_GettyImages-2189960048.jpg?ts=1735617868 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762954/w320xh180_GettyImages-2189960048.jpg?ts=1735617868 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762954/w640xh360_GettyImages-2189960048.jpg?ts=1735617868 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762954/w768xh432_GettyImages-2189960048.jpg?ts=1735617868 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762954/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2189960048.jpg?ts=1735617868 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>UConn's got another one: The Huskies will be just fine when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Paige Bueckers</a> leaves for the WNBA next year. Top-ranked recruit <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163466" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163466">Sarah Strong</a> has stepped in and immediately provided UConn with a bona fide triple-threat alongside the 2021 National Player of the Year. Strong can stretch the floor, facilitate at the elbow, carry the ball upcourt, and generate steals with her quick hands. The freshman's versatility has the Huskies as a top-10 offensive and defensive unit, per <a href="https://barttorvik.com/ncaaw/#">Barttorvik.com</a>. Her presence is also easing the burden on Bueckers, who's shooting a career-best 55.9% from the field.Morrow's consistency: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97633" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97633">Aneesah Morrow</a> has been one of the game's most productive players since her collegiate career began four years ago. She led the nation in rebounding as a freshman and was the fourth-highest scorer during her sophomore year. Morrow then transferred from DePaul to LSU, where she continues to put up big numbers. The 6-foot-1 senior is averaging 18.1 points and leads the NCAA in both rebounds (14 per contest) and double-doubles (15). She's only four double-doubles away from second on the Division I all-time list and on pace to crack the top three in boards. The Tigers will be in the national title picture with Morrow, <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> leading an explosive offense.Don't sleep on South Carolina: The Gamecocks' first defeat in over a year shouldn't have been cause for concern. Dawn Staley's squad was still adjusting to life without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121631" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121631">Kamilla Cardoso</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104313" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104313">Ashlyn Watkins</a> needed time to get in proper game condition after her suspension from team activities was lifted. South Carolina has since rattled off nine straight wins, including three dominant top-15 victories. The Gamecocks are one of two schools with a top-five offense and defense, according to <a href="https://barttorvik.com/ncaaw/?sort=AdjDE&amp;begin=20241101&amp;end=20250501&amp;conlimit=All&amp;year=2025&amp;top=0&amp;quad=5&amp;rpi=#">Barttorvik.com</a>. Nearly 84% of their scoring returned from last year's national championship roster. They lead the country with 42.7 points per game from their reserves, led by 10.8 from freshman forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163076" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163076">Joyce Edwards</a>. South Carolina might not have a go-to option like Cardoso, but its strength in numbers could result in back-to-back titles.

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CBB Full-Court Press: Notre Dame's Hidalgo favorite for Wooden Award

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