Nearly a month removed from a frenzied start to NBA free agency, things have noticeably quieted d...

<p>Nearly a month removed from a frenzied start to NBA free agency, things have noticeably quieted down.</p><p>But some talented players are still seeking a home ahead of the start of training camps in October. Here's a look at the 10 best remaining free agents on the market, their previous teams, and their stats for the 2024-25 season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: JOSH GIDDEY 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-icom6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/icom6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>70</td>
<td> 46.5</td>
<td> 37.8</td>
<td> 78.1</td>
<td> 8.1</td>
<td> 7.2</td>
<td> 14.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $6.8M</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Since the Aussie guard is a restricted free agent, it's unlikely he plays for a team other than the Chicago Bulls next season, though the delay in getting a deal done is a cause for doubt. Giddey might be holding out for a significant payday on the heels of a breakout campaign where he averaged 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 9.3 assists after the All-Star break.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: JONATHAN KUMINGA 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-OJaxd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/OJaxd/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>47</td>
<td> 45.4</td>
<td> 30.5</td>
<td> 66.8</td>
<td> 4.6</td>
<td> 2.2</td>
<td> 15.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings: </strong>$6.2M</p><p>Kuminga averaged the seventh-most minutes for the Golden State Warriors in 2024-25 but found himself on the fringes of the playoff rotation before Stephen Curry's injury prompted the 22-year-old's return. His RFA status gives the Warriors some leverage, and they presumably haven't been approached with a sign-and-trade offer that meets their asking price.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: CAM THOMAS 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nLKlF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nLKlF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td> 43.8</td>
<td> 34.9</td>
<td> 88.1</td>
<td> 3.3</td>
<td> 3.8</td>
<td> 24</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $2.6M</p><p>The assumption is that Thomas will remain with the Brooklyn Nets after appearing in just 25 games last season due to injury. The 23-year-old is one of the NBA's best young shot-creators. The Nets could do worse than including him in their plans as an offensive pillar for their young squad after trading Cam Johnson to the Denver Nuggets.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: MALIK BEASLEY 2 (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-UNe2A" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/UNe2A/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>82</td>
<td> 43</td>
<td> 41.6</td>
<td> 67.9</td>
<td> 2.6</td>
<td> 1.7</td>
<td> 16.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $6M</p><p>Beasley had a renaissance in 2024-25, recording his highest points-per-game average since 2020-21 and the third highest of his career. His 981 points off the Detroit Pistons' bench were the second most across the entire NBA. He's now under investigation as part of a federal gambling probe, however, which puts everything on hold.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: QUENTIN GRIMES 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jBFNZ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jBFNZ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>75</td>
<td>46.7</td>
<td>38.5</td>
<td>75.7</td>
<td>4.3</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>14.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $2.8M</p><p>Grimes had a breakthrough campaign split between the Dallas Mavericks and Philadelphia 76ers. The 25-year-old took advantage of the 76ers' injury-plagued season, averaging 21.9 points in 28 games on 59.2% true shooting - the best mark of any Philly guard in 2024-25. Sixers general manager Daryl Morey has cited CBA challenges for stalled contract talks.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: AL HORFORD 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-YR5Cl" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/YR5Cl/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>60</td>
<td>42.3</td>
<td>36.3</td>
<td>89.5</td>
<td>6.2</td>
<td>2.1</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $9.5M</p><p>Horford, 39, could be content to retire. He's earned upward of $285 million, won a championship, and received five All-Star selections and an All-NBA third team nod across an 18-year NBA career with the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, and 76ers.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: WESTBROOK 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yBASe" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yBASe/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>75</td>
<td>44.9</td>
<td>32.3</td>
<td>66.1</td>
<td>4.9</td>
<td>6.1</td>
<td>13.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $3.4M</p><p>Westbrook declined his $3.4-million player option with the Nuggets after posting 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds across 75 games. The door is open for Denver to agree to another deal with the 36-year-old, but it's worth remembering that the former MVP's two previous teams (Lakers, Clippers) decided against bringing him back.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: MALCOLM BROGDON 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-79HDW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/79HDW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>43.4</td>
<td>28.6</td>
<td>88</td>
<td>3.8</td>
<td>4.1</td>
<td>12.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $22.5M</p><p>Teams seeking an experienced backup point guard should consider Brogdon, who had a decent campaign for the rebuilding Washington Wizards despite a career-low mark from three. The 32-year-old won't receive a contract that's anything close to his previous one, though it would be a shock if he doesn't have a deal in place by the time training camp starts.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: AMIR COFFEY 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GZkce" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GZkce/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>72</td>
<td>47.1</td>
<td>40.9</td>
<td>89.1</td>
<td>2.2</td>
<td>1.1</td>
<td>9.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $3.6M</p><p>All signs point to Coffey seeking a new home after being omitted from the Los Angeles Clippers' playoff rotation. However, CBA restrictions don't help Coffey's presumed desire to get paid, so suitors may be hesitant to offer the biannual exception in the neighborhood of $5.1 million for the 28-year-old. A veteran's minimum deal beckons for a serviceable role player.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 25: BEN SIMMONS 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-7cTxa" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/7cTxa/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="89" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>51</td>
<td>52</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>72.7</td>
<td>4.7</td>
<td>5.6</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>2024-25 earnings:</strong> $1.1M</p><p>Like Coffey, Simmons appears unlikely to return to the Clippers, having also fallen out of the mix come playoff time. Simmons was a cheap addition after the Nets bought him out in the final season of his five-year, $117-million deal. While he'll never make that kind of money again, he is a dependable ball-handler with size if you can overlook the shooting issues.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31867541/related

10 best NBA free agents still on the market

The Indiana Fever are set to host the WNBA's best for the first time in franchise history. Here's...

<p>The Indiana Fever are set to host the WNBA's best for the first time in franchise history. Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming All-Star festivities in Indianapolis.</p><p>The biggest story of the weekend: Fever guard Caitlin Clark will not participate after aggravating a groin injury in Tuesday's defeat to the New York Liberty. Clark is one of three players selected to represent their teams who will not play due to injury. She joins Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally and Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard on the sidelines.</p><h3>Friday, July 18</h3><p><strong>When: </strong>8 p.m. ET</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>How to watch:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Channel</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Canada 🇨🇦</td>
<td>TSN</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>United States 🇺🇸</td>
<td>ESPN</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Skills Challenge</strong></p><p>Defending Skills Challenge winner Allisha Gray and a star-studded cast will compete in a timed obstacle course. The skills on display include dribbling, bounce passes, chest passes, outlet passes, and shooting. The two players with the fastest times in the preliminary round will advance to the finals.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Position</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Natasha Cloud</td>
<td>New York Liberty</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Skylar Diggins</td>
<td>Seattle Storm</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Allisha Gray</td>
<td>Atlanta Dream</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Erica Wheeler</td>
<td>Seattle Storm</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Courtney Williams</td>
<td>Minnesota Lynx</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>UPDATE: New York Liberty guard Natasha Cloud <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3312851" href="https://thescore.com/news/3312851">defeated</a> the Seattle Storm's Erica Wheeler in the final round of Friday's Skills Challenge.</em></p><p><strong>Three-Point Contest</strong></p><p>Gray, who paired her Skills Challenge victory with a Three-Point Contest win in 2024, will look to defend her crown against four of the WNBA's best shooters. It's a timed contest that includes five shooting racks and two deep shots worth three points each. The two players with the highest scores progress to the final round.</p><p>Sabrina Ionescu set the all-time single-round record for both WNBA and NBA Three-Point Contests with her 37-point effort in the final round of the WNBA's 2023 edition in Las Vegas.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>3-point %</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Allisha Gray</td>
<td>Atlanta Dream</td>
<td>38.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sonia Citron</td>
<td>Washington Mystics</td>
<td>36.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kelsey Plum</td>
<td>Los Angeles Sparks</td>
<td>35.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sabrina Ionescu</td>
<td>New York Liberty</td>
<td>30.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lexie Hull*</td>
<td>Indiana Fever</td>
<td>46.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>*<em> Injury replacement for Clark</em></p><p><em>UPDATE: New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3312864" href="https://thescore.com/news/3312864">defeated</a> the Atlanta Dream's Allisha Gray in the final round of Friday's Three-Point Contest.</em></p><h3>Saturday, July 19</h3><p><strong>When: </strong>8:30 p.m. ET</p><p><strong>How to watch:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Channel</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Canada 🇨🇦</td>
<td>TSN</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>United States 🇺🇸</td>
<td>ESPN</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The 2025 All-Star Game will have a special feel. Among the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3312257" href="https://thescore.com/news/3312257">rule changes</a> are a quartet of four-point circles on the court situated 28 feet from the basket. A player who makes a shot while in contact with one of the four areas will receive four points. This idea was also implemented for the 2022 game.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794577/cropped_Screenshot_2025-07-16_at_3.27.50_PM.jpg?ts=1752694099" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794577/w220xh124_Screenshot_2025-07-16_at_3.27.50_PM.jpg?ts=1752694099 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794577/w320xh180_Screenshot_2025-07-16_at_3.27.50_PM.jpg?ts=1752694099 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794577/w640xh360_Screenshot_2025-07-16_at_3.27.50_PM.jpg?ts=1752694099 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794577/w768xh432_Screenshot_2025-07-16_at_3.27.50_PM.jpg?ts=1752694099 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794577/w1080xh607_Screenshot_2025-07-16_at_3.27.50_PM.jpg?ts=1752694099 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">WNBA</span></figcaption></figure><p>There will also be a 20-second shot clock, live-play substitutions similar to line changes in hockey, and no free throws permitted until the final two minutes of the fourth quarter. (Full details on the rule changes are <a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/special-rules-for-2025-att-wnba-all-star-game">here</a>.)</p><p>The two starters who received the most fan votes, Indiana Fever sharpshooter Clark and Minnesota Lynx MVP favorite Napheesa Collier, were selected as team captains. The eight next-highest vote-getters were named starters.</p><p>Clark picked first from the pool of eight, opting for Fever teammate Aliyah Boston. Ionescu, reigning MVP A'ja Wilson, and Phoenix Mercury star Satou Sabally round out Team Clark's starting five. Three first-time All-Stars will feature on the bench, including Washington Mystics rookie duo Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen.</p><p><strong>Team Clark</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Aliyah Boston</td>
<td>Indiana Fever</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sabrina Ionescu</td>
<td>New York Liberty</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>A'ja Wilson</td>
<td>Las Vegas Aces</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kelsey Mitchell</td>
<td>Indiana Fever</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gabby Williams</td>
<td>Seattle Storm</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sonia Citron</td>
<td>Washington Mystics</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kiki Iriafen</td>
<td>Washington Mystics</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jackie Young</td>
<td>Las Vegas Aces</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kayla Thornton</td>
<td>Golden State Valkyries</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brittney Sykes*</td>
<td>Washington Mystics</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brionna Jones*</td>
<td>Atlanta Dream</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>*<em> Injury replacements for Clark and Sabally</em></p><p>The team will be coached by Liberty bench boss and two-time WNBA champion Sandy Brondello.</p><p><strong>Team Collier</strong></p><p>Collier chose Liberty icon Breanna Stewart with the second overall pick. Atlanta Dream star Gray, Seattle Storm veteran Nneka Ogwumike, and Dallas Wings rookie Paige Bueckers round out the starters for Team Collier.</p><p>Collier also selected Lynx teammate Courtney Williams, playmaking Mercury point forward Alyssa Thomas, and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese. Reese recently became the first player in WNBA history to record six consecutive games of 15 or more rebounds.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Napheesa Collier</td>
<td>Minnesota Lynx</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Breanna Stewart</td>
<td>New York Liberty</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Allisha Gray</td>
<td>Atlanta Dream</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nneka Ogwumike</td>
<td>Seattle Storm</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Paige Bueckers</td>
<td>Dallas Wings</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Courtney Williams</td>
<td>Minnesota Lynx</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Skylar Diggins</td>
<td>Seattle Storm</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Angel Reese</td>
<td>Chicago Sky</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alyssa Thomas</td>
<td>Phoenix Mercury</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kelsey Plum</td>
<td>Los Angeles Sparks</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kayla McBride*</td>
<td>Minnesota Lynx</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>*<em> Injury replacement for Howard</em></p><p>The team will be coached by Minnesota's Cheryl Reeve after Clark and Collier decided to swap Brondello and Reeve so the latter could be in charge of her two Lynx players. Reeve was also the coach of the U.S. Olympic team that won gold in Paris, and there was some controversy when she did not select Clark for the squad.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JUNE 20: A general view of signage with the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game logo on June 20, 2025, at Indianapolis International Airport in Indianapolis, IN.

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Collin Sexton is delighted to provide a veteran presence for the Charlotte Hornets after joining ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60062" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60062">Collin Sexton</a> is delighted to provide a veteran presence for the Charlotte Hornets after joining the team in a trade from the Utah Jazz.</p><p>"Super grateful for the opportunity. Ready to come in and help build the culture and just be a leader right away," Sexton told <a href="https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/charlotte-hornets/article310480335.html">The Charlotte Observer's Rod Boone</a>.</p><p>"I feel like the last couple of weeks practicing and stuff, it's been a lot of fun but also getting used to the guys."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sexton was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3305735" href="https://thescore.com/news/3305735">traded</a> to the Hornets in late June with a 2030 second-round pick in exchange for center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37599" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37599">Jusuf Nurkic</a>.</p><p>The 26-year-old former eighth overall pick averaged 17.5 points and 4.2 assists across three seasons with the Jazz.</p><p>The Hornets are a young group with many players competing in Las Vegas Summer League. Sexton has been in attendance alongside new teammates <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53740">Miles Bridges</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110250" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110250">Brandon Miller</a>.</p><p>"That is something that we've talked about. We want as many guys here to support the younger guys," Sexton said. "As you can see, we've had a really good turnout."</p><p>The guard added, "Whether it's on the court, off the court, whether you have questions about basketball, about life, we all are here and it's a brotherhood. We've got to pick up one another, and when someone is down, be there to encourage them when they need it."</p><p>Hornets head coach Charles Lee is also enthused about Sexton's addition. "At times he would stare me down during games as the opposing coach or scout coach, and he's always looking for some fuel to get him going," Lee said.</p><p>"So, when he first got here, I made sure to remind them of that. Like, 'Don't be looking at me crazy like that anymore or your minutes are going to suffer now.'"</p><p>The Hornets are looking to rebound following another dire season. They finished with a 19-63 record - the third-worst mark in the league - and missed the playoffs for a ninth successive campaign.</p><p>Lee thinks Sexton can help the Hornets realize their ambitions.</p><p>"He's just locked (in) and committed to being a Hornet and I love it," Lee said. "I already appreciate so much of what he's kind of giving to our group. Seeing him do group workouts with Melo, them having conversations, I just think it is really important for our group to continue to grow up."</p><p>The Hornets' offseason attempts to add experience to the roster have extended beyond Sexton. They also acquired forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11120">Pat Connaughton</a> in a trade with the Milwaukee Bucks and signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11989" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11989">Spencer Dinwiddie</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1630" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1630">Mason Plumlee</a> to one-year deals.</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - DECEMBER 13: Colin Sexton #2 of the Utah Jazz handles the ball during the game on December 13, 2023 at vivint.SmartHome Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE

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The Indiana Fever topped the Dallas Wings 102-83 on Sunday in the first WNBA meeting between No. ...

<p>The Indiana Fever topped the Dallas Wings 102-83 on Sunday in the first WNBA meeting between No. 1 overall picks <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/171763" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/171763">Paige Bueckers</a>.</p><p>Clark, the top pick in the 2024 draft, recorded 14 points, 13 assists, and five steals in her third game back following a five-game absence due to a groin injury. Bueckers, who the Wings selected first overall in April, led all scorers with 21 points in a losing cause.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/110192" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/110192">Aliyah Boston</a>, the first overall pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft, chipped in with 17 points for the Fever.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Both Clark and Bueckers were voted as starters for the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game. Boston will also start after being selected by captain and teammate Clark as part of the All-Star draft. The annual showcase of the league's best takes place July 19 in Indiana.</p><p>The Fever's 64 first-half points in Sunday's one-sided affair at home were the most by any team in a half this season and set a new franchise record. Indiana also matched a franchise-best 30 assists in the victory.</p><p>A 25-4 second-quarter run powered the Fever to a 22-point halftime lead. The victory moves Indiana to 11-10 on the season ahead of their visit to the last-placed Connecticut Sun on Tuesday. The Wings drop to 6-16 and are 2-10 away from home.</p><p>Wings guard and four-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/48510" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/48510">Arike Ogunbowale</a> finished with two points on 0-of-10 shooting. It was the first time in 209 career starts that Ogunbowale failed to make a field goal.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JULY 13: Paige Bueckers #5 of the Dallas Wings and Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever embrace before the game on July 13, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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WNBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  This week, we're c...

<p><em>WNBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p>This week, we're casting aside cynicism and taking a positive approach by identifying one reason for optimism for each of the league's 13 teams.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CON">CON</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#GSV">GSV</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#LA">LA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NY">NY</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#WSH">WSH</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>1. <a id="MIN" name="MIN">Minnesota Lynx (17-2)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>1</p><p><strong>Historic dominance:</strong> There are plenty of reasons for optimism in Minnesota. Among them is a plus-11.1 point differential on the season that puts the Lynx in a rarified class: Only six other teams in WNBA history have posted a double-digit point differential, and all six of them went on to win the title that year.</p><h3>2. <a id="PHX" name="PHX">Phoenix Mercury (13-6)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>2</p><p><strong>The Big Three's limited court time:</strong> Injuries have kept Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, and Kahleah Copper from playing simultaneously. Still, the Mercury have established themselves as title contenders, and the chemistry between their star trio is only going to grow as the season progresses.</p><h3>3. <a id="SEA" name="SEA">Seattle Storm (12-7)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>5</p><p><strong>Superstar trio:</strong> The Storm are threatening the WNBA's elite this season, and All-Stars Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins, and Gabby Williams have been a three-headed monster on offense. They're the league's highest-scoring trio (48.9<strong> </strong>points per game) with 10 or more games played together.</p><h3>4. <a id="NY" name="NY">New York Liberty (13-6)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>3</p><p><strong>Jonquel Jones' return:</strong> New York has cooled after rattling off nine straight wins to begin the season. The Liberty's interior defense has struggled without the reigning Finals MVP patrolling the paint. Jones' eventual return to the lineup should point the club back in the right direction.</p><h3>5. <a id="ATL" name="ATL">Atlanta Dream (12-7)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>4</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/cropped_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w220xh124_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w320xh180_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w640xh360_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w768xh432_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andrew J. Clark/ISI Photos / ISI Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Karl Smesko's offense:</strong> The first-year head coach has transformed Atlanta into one of the league's most explosive offenses. Smesko's emphasis on 3-pointers has been at the core of the team's turnaround and helped Allisha Gray earn her first All-Star starting nod. The Dream have managed to light up the scoreboard despite being inefficient from beyond the arc.</p><h3>6. <a id="GSV" name="GSV">Golden State Valkyries (9-9)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>6</p><p><strong>Uncharted waters:</strong> The Valkyries now have nine victories on the campaign, which ties or surpasses all other expansion teams this century, and their .500 win percentage could challenge the 1998 Dallas Wings (.567) for the best expansion season in league history. Few could have foreseen this.</p><h3>7. <a id="IND" name="IND">Indiana Fever (9-9)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>7</p><p><strong>Fever's resilience:</strong> Caitlin Clark has been sidelined for extended portions of the season, while DeWanna Bonner's exit was an unwanted distraction. The Fever persevered through the adversity to upset the Lynx in the Commissioner's Cup final and dismantle the Aces. Multiple players stepped up in Clark's absence, and that'll help the team in the long run.</p><h3>8. <a id="LV" name="LV">Las Vegas Aces (9-9)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>8</p><p><strong>A'ja Wilson exists:</strong> The Aces have underwhelmed, prompting coach Becky Hammon to characterize a recent loss to the Fever as "trash," but on the bright side, Wilson is playing at an elite level. The three-time MVP is second in the league in scoring (20.7) and rebounds (8.7) and leads all players with 2.4<strong> </strong>blocks per game. Now, we await the results of the MRI on a wrist injury suffered in Tuesday's loss to the Liberty.</p><h3>9. <a id="WSH" name="WSH">Washington Mystics (9-10)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>9</p><p><strong>Youth movement:</strong> Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen have started since opening night and are taking significant roles in the Mystics' hunt for a surprising playoff berth. Citron has been a dependable 3-and-D option, while Iriafen is already among the league's top offensive rebounders. They're just the second pair of rookie teammates to be selected as All-Stars.</p><h3>10. <a id="DAL" name="DAL">Dallas Wings (6-14)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>11</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/cropped_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Buglewicz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Paige Bueckers:</strong> Whether or not Dallas sneaks into the postseason, the franchise can rest easy knowing that Bueckers is part of the big picture. The UConn product has been everything the Wings could ask for, earning an All-Star starting nod in her debut campaign. Bueckers is a mid-range assassin, elite playmaker, and intelligent defender. She's got a great feel for the game and shows poise beyond her years.</p><h3>11. <a id="LA" name="LA">Los Angeles Sparks (6-13)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>12</p><p><strong>Cameron Brink's return:</strong> The Sparks have been one of the league's biggest letdowns, and Brink's long-term absence due to a torn ACL and meniscus hasn't helped. But there could be good news on the horizon - head coach Lynne Roberts recently said Brink will be back "sooner rather than later."</p><h3>12. <a id="CHI" name="CHI">Chicago Sky (5-13)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>10</p><p><strong>Angel Reese is a walking double-double:</strong> This has largely been a lost season for the Sky, but Reese is averaging 17.8 points and 17 boards across her last six outings and leads the league with 12.9 rebounds, 4.2 more than the closest player. She now has 37 double-doubles in 51 career games.</p><h3>13. <a id="CON" name="CON">Connecticut Sun (2-16)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>13</p><p><strong>Rookie contributions:</strong> There's no escaping the fact that the Sun are dreadful. A current 10-game losing streak and comical record confirms as much, but in Marina Mabrey's injury absence, the team has gotten improved contributions from 2025 top-10 picks Aneesah Morrow and Saniya Rivers. Small victories.</p>

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<p>The Orlando Magic signed star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102767" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102767">Paolo Banchero</a> to a five-year, $239-million rookie maximum extension that could reach up to $287 million, his agent told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1942348247248634320">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The agreement could see Banchero's base salary elevated to the supermax if he earns an All-NBA or All-Defensive team nod or is voted MVP or Defensive Player of the Year, Charania adds.</p><p>The contract also includes a player option for the 2030-31 season, making it the first rookie max extension to include the clause since Luka Doncic and Trae Young agreed to similar deals in 2021.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Banchero led the Magic in scoring with 25.9 points per game while averaging 7.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists last season. However, he was limited to 46 games due to an oblique injury that sidelined him for more than two months.</p><p>Orlando finished the campaign with a 41-41 record, regressing from its 47-35 showing in 2023-24. The Magic then beat the Atlanta Hawks in the play-in tournament before losing in the first round for the second straight year.</p><p>Banchero was selected with the first pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. He won Rookie of the Year and earned an All-Star nod the following season.</p><p>The Magic have now locked up all members of their young core to long-term deals. Orlando signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96086" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96086">Franz Wagner</a> to a five-year, $224-million extension and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96087">Jalen Suggs</a> to a five-year, $150.5-million deal last offseason.</p>

ORLANDO, FL - MARCH 29: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on March 29, 2025 at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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<p>The Denver Nuggets have informed representatives for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11051">Jonas Valanciunas</a> that they intend for the newly acquired center to honor his contract amid a pursuit by Greek side Panathinaikos, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1941951951316439241">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The Nuggets landed Valanciunas earlier in the offseason in a trade with the Sacramento Kings for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37598" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37598">Dario Saric</a>, though it has yet to become official.</p><p>The 13-year NBA veteran reportedly traveled to Athens after the deal in hopes of a move to the Greek EuroLeague squad. Valanciunas' contract is binding, and leaving would require the Nuggets to buy him out.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Valanciunas, 33, has two years remaining on his current contract, and the Nuggets acquired him to play backup center behind three-time MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>.</p><p>Valanciunas averaged 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds across 81 appearances split between the Kings and Washington Wizards last season. He's set to pocket $10.3 million in 2025-26 and an additional $10 million for the 2026-27 campaign.</p><p>The former fifth overall pick by the Toronto Raptors in the 2011 draft is one of several offseason transactions for the Nuggets. The team shipped <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60530" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60530">Michael Porter Jr.</a> and an unprotected first-round pick in 2032 to the Brooklyn Nets for forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37658" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37658">Cameron Johnson</a>. Denver also signed former Nuggets role player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52805" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52805">Bruce Brown</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6179" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6179">Tim Hardaway Jr.</a> in free agency.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - APRIL 16: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Sacramento Kings brings the ball up the court during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during the 2025 SoFi Play-In Tournament on April 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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Report: Nuggets want Valanciunas to honor deal amid Greece rumors

LeBron James exercised his $52.6-million player option and will return for a record-breaking 23rd...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> exercised his $52.6-million player option and will return for a record-breaking 23rd NBA season in 2025-26, his agent Rich Paul told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45608010/lebron-james-picks-526m-option-monitoring-lakers-moves">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>However, Paul acknowledged that James, in tandem with the organization, could explore a possible exit from the Los Angeles Lakers if he doesn't consider a title a realistic target for the squad next season.</p><p>"LeBron wants to compete for a championship," Paul told Charania. "He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie (Buss) and Rob (Pelinka) and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what's best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive, and want what's best for him."</p><p>The 2025-26 campaign will be James' first full year alongside five-time All-NBAer Luka Doncic, whom the Lakers stunningly acquired from the Dallas Mavericks in February. The move purportedly set the table for the Lakers' future after James, though the star duo is certainly capable of bringing postseason success to L.A. with the right supporting cast.</p><p>James, 40, will enter the campaign second on the league's all-time regular-season games played list with 1,562. Boston Celtics icon Robert Parish holds the record with 1,611, meaning James would need to appear in 50 games next season to exceed that mark.</p><p>On his first appearance, he will break a tie with Vince Carter for the most NBA seasons by one player.</p><p>The four-time MVP averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.8 rebounds, and a steal in 70 regular-season games in 2024-25 and was named to the All-NBA second team - his 21st consecutive All-NBA honor.</p><p>James <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3292262" href="https://thescore.com/news/3292262">reportedly</a> intended to speak with Lakers brass about roster improvements before officially exercising his option. The franchise's shocking acquisition of Doncic still cost them 10-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, an interior presence the club missed during its first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka said following the series-deciding Game 5 defeat that the team would look to add a center in the offseason. L.A. rescinded a deadline-day move for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams after the third-year big man failed his physical.</p><p>However, Los Angeles could be buoyed in a search for reinforcements thanks to a pending ownership change. Billionaire Mark Walter, the controlling owner of baseball's Los Angeles Dodgers, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3301679" href="https://thescore.com/news/3301679">reportedly</a> agreed to purchase the Buss family's majority stake in the historic NBA franchise earlier in June at a record $10-billion valuation. Jeanie Buss will reportedly continue in her role as governor of the team after the sale.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 30: Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) looks back at scoreboard during game 5 of the first round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers on April 30, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA.

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LeBron picks up $52.6M option, still gauging Lakers' future

Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden has declined his $36.3-million player option for the 2025...

<p>Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden has declined his $36.3-million player option for the 2025-26 campaign and intends to sign a new two-year, $81.5-million deal with the team, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939428677139206603">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Harden averaged 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists in his second season with the Clippers in 2024-25 to earn All-NBA third-team honors and the eighth All-NBA selection of his career.</p><p>Los Angeles acquired the former MVP from the Philadelphia 76ers in November 2023. Harden signed a two-year, $70-million deal last offseason with the Clippers, which included a 2025-26 player option that he ultimately declined.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>At 35, the three-time scoring leader is past his prime but continues to find new ways to impact games. Now an elite playmaker, Harden has averaged at least 8.5 assists per contest over the last five seasons.</p><p>An 11-time All-Star entering his 17th NBA campaign, Harden ranks second in NBA history for 3-pointers made (3,175) behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a>.</p><p>Harden has also made the postseason every year he's been in the league but hasn't won an NBA title. However, remaining in L.A. keeps him paired with two-time champ <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a>.</p><p>The Clippers fell in Round 1 in seven games to the Denver Nuggets this past postseason.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 26: James Harden #1 of the Los Angeles Clippers in action against the Denver Nuggets in Game Four of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Intuit Dome on April 26, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Report: Harden declines player option to sign 2-year, $81.5M deal

The Utah Jazz traded guard Collin Sexton and a 2030 second-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets fo...

<p>The Utah Jazz traded guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60062" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60062">Collin Sexton</a> and a 2030 second-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets for center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37599" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37599">Jusuf Nurkic</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939403635428835822">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Sexton, 26, is heading to Charlotte after averaging 17.5 points and 4.2 assists across three seasons with the Jazz. The 2018 eighth overall pick boasted 49/40/85 shooting splits while in Utah.</p><p>Nurkic joins the Jazz after appearing in 25 games with the Hornets this past season. Charlotte acquired the Bosnian big from the Phoenix Suns alongside a 2026 first-round pick at the trade deadline for Vasilije Micic, Cody Martin, and a 2026 second-round selection.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 30-year-old's move represents the second significant frontcourt departure for the Hornets following their trade of center Mark Williams to the Suns earlier in the week for Micic and a pair of first-round picks. Charlotte drafted Creighton center Ryan Kalkbrenner with the 34th selection in the 2025 NBA Draft.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 06: Collin Sexton #2 of the Utah Jazz reacts after a three-point basket against the Atlanta Hawks during the second quarter at State Farm Arena on April 06, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Report: Jazz trade Sexton, 2nd-round pick to Hornets for Nurkic

WNBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  In this edition, w...

<p><em>WNBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p>In this edition, we're examining a busy stretch of the schedule as the 2025 regular season surpasses the quarter mark.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CON">CON</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#GSV">GSV</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#LA">LA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NY">NY</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#WSH">WSH</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>1. <a id="MIN" name="MIN">Minnesota Lynx (12-2)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>2</p><p>The two-loss Lynx vault to the top spot in the rankings, though all eyes are on MVP frontrunner Napheesa Collier and a back injury that's kept her out for the last two games. And if the season-low 64-point showing in the loss to the Mystics is any indication, Minnesota need Collier back sooner than later</p><h3>2. <a id="PHX" name="PHX">Phoenix Mercury (11-4)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>4</p><p>The Mercury may object to all the talk of a Lynx-Liberty hegemony. Their five straight wins, including New York's only home loss, have kept them right on the heels of last year's finalists at the top of the table despite the roster turnover. Offseason addition Satou Sabally has been a big reason why the Mercury are exceeding all expectations.</p><h3>3. <a id="NY" name="NY">New York Liberty (10-3)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>1</p><p>After a 9-0 start, the Liberty have lost three of four, including a defeat to Indiana in which they conceded 102 points. Finals MVP Jonquel Jones is out four-to-six weeks due to an ankle sprain suffered against the Mercury, and her absence was immediately felt - New York was outrebounded 42-32 in the home loss.</p><h3>4. <a id="ATL" name="ATL">Atlanta Dream (10-5)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>3</p><p>Are the Dream title contenders or on the fringe of the upper echelon? It's not immediately clear, and while they have won 11 of 14, one of those three defeats came at the hands of the Liberty when they coughed up a 17-point second-half lead and chance at a spot in the Commissioner's Cup finale. They also shot 15-of-64 (23.4%) in Tuesday's loss to the Mystics.</p><h3>5. <a id="SEA" name="SEA">Seattle Storm (9-6)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>5</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/cropped_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w220xh124_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w320xh180_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w640xh360_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w768xh432_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alika Jenner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Storm have dropped just two of eight games since their June 1 loss to the Aces, even though only 13.8% of their points have come via free throws. Instead, Noelle Quinn's squad has forced opponents to commit 17.3 turnovers per game in June while averaging just 13.4 of their own - both rank second in the league this month.</p><h3>6. <a id="GSV" name="GSV">Golden State Valkyries (7-6)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>9</p><p>The Valkyries are a nuisance to play against, which is a credit to rookie head coach Natalie Nakase. Her empowerment of career role players has pulled the most out of a limited roster, and she's installed a coherent identity: Golden State defends well and is a menace on the boards with a league-high 37 rebounds per game.</p><h3>7. <a id="IND" name="IND">Indiana Fever (7-7)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>6</p><p>Caitlin Clark shot a combined 1-of-17 from deep in the Fever's back-to-back losses to the Valkyries and Aces, putting Indiana at 1-3 on the season when she fails to hit more than a pair of threes. Even the best stars' shots will occasionally go cold, but the Fever need better than a 63.7 assist percentage - the second-worst mark in the W - to offset those nights.</p><h3>8. <a id="LV" name="LV">Las Vegas Aces (6-7)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>7</p><p>Though they dropped her first game back against the Storm, the Aces are surely relieved to have A'ja Wilson back after spending three games in the league's concussion protocol. Their net rating falls by 7.9 points during her off-court minutes, the steepest on-off differential produced by any player who's played at least 50 minutes this season.</p><h3>9. <a id="WSH" name="WSH">Washington Mystics (7-8)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>8</p><p>The Mystics remain a work in progress, but they're easy to get excited about, especially after the thrilling 91-88 overtime win over the Wings in which stellar rookie Sonia Citron got the last laugh against college rival Paige Bueckers with a clutch game-winning triple.</p><h3>10. <a id="CHI" name="CHI">Chicago Sky (4-10)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>11</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/cropped_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Daniel Bartel / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Chicago is in desperate need of a scorer that they can rely on. The Sky are the only team without a single player averaging at least 15 points, and just one of two teams - the other being the Mystics - without someone hitting at least two threes per game.</p><h3>11. <a id="DAL" name="DAL">Dallas Wings (4-12)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>13</p><p>The Wings are more competitive than their record suggests. It helps that they boast a league-best 14.2 second-chance points per game and are among the top rebounding sides. It also doesn't hurt that Bueckers leads the WNBA in scoring in June (20.6 PPG). There are some positive signs amid a full-scale rebuild.</p><h3>12. <a id="LA" name="LA">Los Angeles Sparks (4-11)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>10</p><p>Even accounting for their loss in Chicago on Tuesday, the Sparks still oddly boast a better road record than they do in L.A., where they're still searching for a second win. They'll have a solid opportunity for one when they host the Sky on June 29, but they'd have to wait until a three-game homestand leading into the All-Star break if that proves unsuccessful.</p><h3>13. <a id="CON" name="CON">Connecticut Sun (2-12)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>12</p><p>The Sun are on a six-game losing streak, a stretch capped by a 37-point defeat to the Mystics and a beatdown against the expansion Valkyries. They also own the league's worst offensive (91.4) and defensive ratings (111.8), resulting in a negative-20.3 net rating. It's rough in Connecticut.</p>

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WNBA Power Rankings: Mercury rising as Liberty cool off

Kyrie Irving is declining his $43-million player option but intends to sign a three-year, $119-mi...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> is declining his $43-million player option but intends to sign a three-year, $119-million contract with the Dallas Mavericks, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1937679613947240546">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>His new deal is worth $39.67 million annually, less than the player option would've been for the 2025-26 campaign. The contract also reportedly includes a player option for the 2027-28 season.</p><p>Irving's return timeline remains unclear after he tore the ACL in his left knee on March 3 against the Sacramento Kings, missing the final 20 regular-season games. However, the Mavericks are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3269153" href="https://thescore.com/news/3269153">reportedly</a> optimistic he'll return in January 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Irving hasn't appeared in more than 65 contests in a season since 2018-19 with the Boston Celtics due to various injuries.</p><p>The 33-year-old averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.3 steals in 50 games last campaign, earning the ninth All-Star nod of his 14-year NBA career.</p><p>The 2025-26 season will mark Irving's third full campaign with Dallas after he joined the franchise from the Brooklyn Nets at the trade deadline in February 2023. He played a key role in Dallas' trip to the NBA Finals in 2024, averaging 22.1 points and 5.1 assists in 22 playoff games.</p><p>The Mavericks now project to roll with a core of Irving, 2025 trade acquisition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, and No. 1 pick-to-be <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a>. Dallas also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3303549" href="https://thescore.com/news/3303549">reportedly</a> signed center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Daniel Gafford</a> to a three-year extension worth nearly $60 million on Monday.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 27: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts during the first half against the Charlotte Hornets at American Airlines Center on February 27, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Report: Kyrie to sign new 3-year, $119M deal with Mavs

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander entered his name in the annals of NBA history...

<p>Oklahoma City Thunder guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> entered his name in the annals of NBA history Sunday, earning the 2025 Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP after the Thunder's title-clinching victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 7.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander becomes just the fourth NBA player to win the scoring title, regular-season MVP, and Finals MVP in the same season, joining Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal, and Michael Jordan, who accomplished the feat four times.</p><p>The 26-year-old is also the first player since LeBron James in 2013 to win the regular-season and playoff MVP awards in the same campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 29 points on 8-of-27 shooting to pair with a career playoff-high 12 assists and five rebounds for his second double-double of the series Sunday.</p><p>He averaged 30.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.8 steals across the Finals.</p><p>The Canadian guard is the first player with 25-plus points, 12-plus assists, and five-plus rebounds in Game 7 of the NBA Finals since Walt Frazier in 1970.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 22: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder handles the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers during Game Seven of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 22, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Thunder's Gilgeous-Alexander named Finals MVP

The Phoenix Suns are trading superstar forward Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Gree...

<p>The Phoenix Suns are trading superstar forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> to the Houston Rockets for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39256" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39256">Dillon Brooks</a>, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-round picks, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45561747/sources-suns-trading-kevin-durant-rockets-blockbuster-deal">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Durant, 36, leaves Phoenix after averaging 26.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.2 blocks with 52.7/42.7/84.7 shooting splits over the last two-and-a-half seasons.</p><p>The Suns had long searched for a new home for Durant, who attracted significant interest dating back to the midseason trade deadline.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Phoenix <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295238" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295238">reportedly</a> had to lower its asking price after struggling to find a trade partner for the four-time scoring champion. Durant was also apparently partial to specific teams amid the discussions; the 15-time All-Star reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3300269" href="https://thescore.com/news/3300269">preferred</a> the Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, or Miami Heat and said he would be open to a subsequent long-term deal if he landed on any of the three.</p><p>The former MVP's career 27.2 points per game is the third-highest mark among active players behind only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>. He's also registering seven rebounds, 4.4 assists, 1.1 blocks, and one steal per outing throughout a 17-year career while falling just short of the 50/40/90 club with 50.2/39/88.2 splits.</p><p>Injuries have curtailed the two-time NBA champion in recent years, though. He missed the entire 2019-20 season due to the torn Achilles he sustained in the 2019 Finals with the Golden State Warriors and has missed significant time in nearly every season since. The 2023-24 campaign, his first full year in Phoenix, was the only season in which Durant played at least 65 contests since returning from his Achilles tear.</p><p>Green is the centerpiece of Phoenix's return, and leaves Houston after four seasons. The 23-year-old was a constant presence for the Rockets, appearing in all 82 games in each of the last two seasons. The G League Ignite product and former No. 2 overall pick averaged 20.1 points across four seasons and earned NBA All-Rookie first team honors in 2022.</p><p>Brooks spent the last two campaigns in Houston and was named to the NBA All-Defensive second team in 2023. The Canadian wing averaged 14 points and 3.7 rebounds last season for the Rockets.</p><p>The Minnesota Timberwolves, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, and Toronto Raptors all pursued Durant despite their absences from his wish list, according to Charania. </p>

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 30: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns and Dillon Brooks #9 of the Houston Rockets looks on during the game on March 30, 2025 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Suns trade Durant to Rockets for Green, Brooks, picks

The Houston Rockets and head coach Ime Udoka agreed on a long-term contract extension, sources to...

<p>The Houston Rockets and head coach Ime Udoka agreed on a long-term contract extension, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1935734526510043497">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The deal makes Udoka one of the NBA's highest-paid coaches, Charania reports.</p><p>Udoka has been at the helm for the last two seasons, guiding the Rockets to a 52-30 record in 2024-25 that secured the team's first playoff spot since 2019-20.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The former Boston Celtics head coach compiled a 93-71 record across two seasons in Houston and finished third in Coach of the Year voting at the completion of the 2024-25 campaign.</p><p>The Rockets recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3298701" href="https://thescore.com/news/3298701">denied</a> the New York Knicks permission to speak with Udoka about their coaching vacancy following the dismissal of Tom Thibodeau.</p><p>Udoka's lucrative agreement marks the second major piece of business for the Rockets in June. The organization signed center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24302" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24302">Steven Adams</a> to a three-year, $39-million contract last week.</p><p>Houston also needs to make a decision regarding veteran guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/25275" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/25275">Fred VanVleet</a>'s $44.9-million team option ahead of the June 29 deadline.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 23: Head coach Ime Udoka of the Houston Rockets reacts in the first half against the Golden State Warriors in Game Two of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center on April 23, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Report: Rockets extend Udoka on long-term deal

Cooper Flagg will almost certainly be selected by the Dallas Mavericks with the first overall pic...

<p>Cooper Flagg will almost certainly be selected by the Dallas Mavericks with the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. But unlike previous top picks who joined rebuilding sides, Flagg will join a Mavericks team that's only one year removed from a Finals run and that boasts a roster stacked with contributors.</p><p>Here's a look at four ways the versatile forward can make an immediate impact with the Mavs:</p><h3>Versatile rim protector</h3><p>Flagg displayed a polished two-way game in his lone year at Duke, but his biggest immediate impact at the next level will likely come at the defensive end. A combination of size and quickness allowed the 6-foot-8 defensive disruptor to cover a lot of ground for the Blue Devils, evidenced by his 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks per game in 37 outings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>His quick hands and ability to intercept passes should help a Mavs team that finished 21st in the league this season with 7.8 steals per game. Pair that with his ability to protect the paint - his standing reach is listed at 8-foot-10.5 - and he should form an imposing rim-protecting duo with Anthony Davis, one of the league's elite defenders. Flagg posted the third-best defensive rating of any high-major player in the nation, so there's reason to believe he's up for the task.</p><h3>Flexible big in supersized lineup</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790557/cropped_GettyImages-2210870354.jpg?ts=1749991125" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790557/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210870354.jpg?ts=1749991125 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790557/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210870354.jpg?ts=1749991125 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790557/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210870354.jpg?ts=1749991125 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790557/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210870354.jpg?ts=1749991125 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790557/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210870354.jpg?ts=1749991125 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rocky Widner / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Lineups featuring two bigs aren't becoming a thing of the past; they're just evolving. Elite players who would have traditionally been power forwards are now blessed with playmaking and perimeter skills. Just look at Oklahoma City Thunder duo Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein during the team's 68-win season and Finals run.</p><p>The Mavs could take it a step further with Flagg at the 3, Davis at the 4, and Dereck Lively II at center. There's no question that Flagg can play as a small forward, and he'll likely play off Davis and Lively, creating mismatches and opportunities for cuts, while also unleashing his relentless offensive rebounding. Furthermore, Flagg shot 38.5% from three at Duke and 44% in conference play - very strong for a player whose go-to skill isn't shooting. Dallas should have no trouble with him roaming the court alongside Klay Thompson.</p><h3>On-ball creator </h3><p>The Mavericks sacrificed playmaking for defense when they moved Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis. This wasn't supposed to be an issue, as nine-time All-Star Kyrie Irving was pegged to take over primary ball-handling duties. However, with Irving out for a good portion of the season with a torn ACL and no other high-level creator on the roster, Dallas could have an on-ball creation issue.</p><p>Moving either P.J. Washington or Daniel Gafford might rectify this situation and clear up some of the logjam at the forward spot, but until a trade is completed, Flagg is capable of being a stopgap. He's shown flashes of breathtaking playmaking. He uses his size to throw passes at unique angles and is particularly adept at finding teammates in the fastbreak. He quickly developed a strong relationship with big man Khaman Maluach and could be even more threatening next to the rim-running Lively. Flagg's passing improved as he gained more comfort at the collegiate level - four of his five highest assist outings came after the New Year - and his 4.2 assists per game were fifth best in the nation among players who are at least 6-foot-8.</p><h3>Multi-tier scorer</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777659/cropped_GettyImages-2206598426.jpg?ts=1743133761" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777659/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206598426.jpg?ts=1743133761 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777659/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206598426.jpg?ts=1743133761 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777659/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206598426.jpg?ts=1743133761 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777659/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206598426.jpg?ts=1743133761 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777659/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206598426.jpg?ts=1743133761 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">C. Morgan Engel / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Numerous dazzling passers have failed to make an impact in the league, as playmaking becomes a useless skill if defenses aren't worried about the ball-handler's scoring prowess.</p><p>This is where Flagg's offensive game becomes tantalizing, pairing great passing with three-level scoring.</p><p>Flagg is already a strong 3-point shooter, but his ability to knock down triples with a live dribble (41.1%) makes him an elite scoring threat. His dangerous outside shot opens up the floor, particularly as a pick-and-roll ball-handler, and permits him to get to the rim, where he's also tremendously efficient. Flagg shot 55% at the rim in half-court situations, per Synergy. His live-dribble 3-point shooting, soft touch, and high release make him a great bet to develop a strong midrange game as well.</p>

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4 ways Flagg can make an immediate impact with the Mavericks

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is expected to return for Saturday's clash with the New York Lib...

<p>Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is expected to return for Saturday's clash with the New York Liberty, head coach Stephanie White told <a href="https://x.com/chloepeterson67/status/1933573916779311580">The Indianapolis Star's Chloe Peterson</a>.</p><p>Clark missed Indiana's last five games due to a left quad strain.</p><p>"She's working her way back," White said. "I felt like today was better than yesterday in terms of movement and balance and feeling like she's getting back into the rhythm."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>White added, "As long as we don't have any regression, she's going to be ready to roll."</p><p>The Fever are also planning to welcome back guard Sophie Cunningham, who was sidelined for the last three contests with an ankle injury.</p><p>Clark, 23, is averaging 19 points, a league-high 9.3 assists, six rebounds, and 1.3 steals in four games this season.</p><p>Indiana released guard Aari McDonald as a result of Clark and Cunningham returning to the active roster. McDonald was signed on an emergency hardship contract and impressed in three games, averaging 11 points and three assists.</p><p>Fever forward and six-time All-Star DeWanna Bonner isn't expected to be in the lineup Saturday, White said. Bonner has been absent due to personal reasons.</p><p>The Fever welcome the 9-0 Liberty to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for a WNBA Commissioner's Cup matchup on the heels of their loss to the Atlanta Dream.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MAY 22: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever waits to re-enter the game against the Atlanta Dream during the second quarter at State Farm Arena on May 22, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Fever's Clark expected to return Saturday vs. Liberty

Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals on Thursday started with raucous hysteria from the Oklahoma City fa...

<p>Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals on Thursday started with raucous hysteria from the Oklahoma City faithful, only to end in deafening silence after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> drained a last-second game-winner.</p><p>It was par for the course for an Indiana Pacers team that's made a habit of fourth-quarter comebacks. Haliburton and Co. have now erased five deficits of 15 or more points to snatch victories from the jaws of defeat in these playoffs. </p><p>Here's a look at those five instances and how they happened.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>NBA Finals</h3><p><strong>Game 1: Pacers 111-110 Thunder</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789133/cropped_GettyImages-2218140731.jpg?ts=1749181674" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789133/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218140731.jpg?ts=1749181674 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789133/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218140731.jpg?ts=1749181674 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789133/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218140731.jpg?ts=1749181674 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789133/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218140731.jpg?ts=1749181674 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789133/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218140731.jpg?ts=1749181674 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Zach Beeker / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Down by a dozen at halftime - and stuck 15 points to start the third quarter - the Pacers looked dead in the water in what was setting up to be a comprehensive home win for the Thunder. And then Indiana mounted another prolific fourth-quarter surge.</p><p>Haliburton was the hero then too, <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1930823840214487089">draining</a><a href="http://x.com/NBA/status/1930823840214487089"> a 21-foot pull-up jumper</a> with 0.3 seconds on the clock after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93847" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93847">Aaron Nesmith</a> rebounded a missed 14-footer from MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>.</p><p>It tied the largest fourth-quarter NBA Finals comeback in the last 50 years, and Haliburton is now 6-for-7 (85.7%) with game-tying or game-winning shots in the final 90 seconds of the fourth quarter or overtime in these playoffs.</p><p>Haliburton finished the night with 14 points on 6-of-13 shooting. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> chipped in with 19 points and 10 boards, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93853" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93853">Obi Toppin</a> had 17 points off the bench. But <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102757" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102757">Andrew Nembhard</a> was the difference maker: He scored or assisted on 16 of the Pacers' fourth-quarter points.</p><h3>Eastern Conference finals</h3><p><strong>Game 1: Pacers 138-135 Knicks (OT)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786793/cropped_GettyImages-2216368144.jpg?ts=1747884236" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786793/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216368144.jpg?ts=1747884236 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786793/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216368144.jpg?ts=1747884236 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786793/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216368144.jpg?ts=1747884236 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786793/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216368144.jpg?ts=1747884236 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786793/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216368144.jpg?ts=1747884236 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Al Bello / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The New York Knicks owned a 17-point second-half advantage and led by 14 points with under three minutes left in regulation before Nesmith sparked a historic comeback for the visitors courtesy of a flurry of late 3-pointers.</p><p>Down two with seconds remaining, Haliburton appeared to nearly lose his dribble before stepping back toward the 3-point line and <a href="https://x.com/NBAonTNT/status/1925384851043111020">hoisting a last-second jumper</a> that bounced off the rim and veered skyward before gravity guided it through the cylinder.</p><p>Haliburton thought he'd won the game and mimicked Pacers icon Reggie Lee's famous choke signal, just as Miller had toward celebrity Knicks fan Spike Lee after guiding Indiana to a come-from-behind victory in 1994. History would not repeat itself, though - the bucket was ruled a 2-pointer following a review, but the Pacers would get the last laugh when Nembhard made the go-ahead basket with 26 seconds left in OT to secure a memorable win.</p><p>It was a riveting start to the ninth playoff matchup between the Eastern Conference rivals. The Pacers would go on to win the best-of-seven series in six contests.</p><h3>Eastern Conference semifinals</h3><p><strong>Game 5: Pacers 114-105 Cavaliers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785514/cropped_GettyImages-2214949829.jpg?ts=1747181482" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785514/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214949829.jpg?ts=1747181482 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785514/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214949829.jpg?ts=1747181482 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785514/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214949829.jpg?ts=1747181482 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785514/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214949829.jpg?ts=1747181482 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785514/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214949829.jpg?ts=1747181482 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Indiana rallied from a 19-point first-half deficit to eliminate the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games. The Pacers won all three contests at Cleveland's Rocket Arena.</p><p>If knockout punches from the Pacers punctuated the other outcomes on this list, this was death by a thousand cuts. Cleveland stormed out to a 44-24 lead with eight minutes left in the opening half before Indiana's breakneck pace of play proved too much.</p><p>Indiana went 14-of-22 from the field in the third frame and carried a 17-2 run into the fourth quarter. The visitors then resisted a brief Cleveland comeback by scoring eight of the final 12 points to cement the series.</p><p>The Cavs didn't help their cause, shooting just 38.9% from the field and making only nine of 35 attempts from beyond the arc. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> were a combined 12-of-41 from the field and just 4-of-19 from deep.</p><p><strong>Game 2: Pacers 120-119 Cavaliers </strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784467/cropped_GettyImages-2213813308.jpg?ts=1746620535" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784467/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213813308.jpg?ts=1746620535 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784467/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213813308.jpg?ts=1746620535 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784467/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213813308.jpg?ts=1746620535 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784467/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213813308.jpg?ts=1746620535 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784467/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213813308.jpg?ts=1746620535 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Trailing 119-112 with 48 seconds left, the Pacers scored the final eight points of a thrilling affair capped by a Haliburton triple with 1.1 seconds left on the clock to steal Game 2 in Cleveland and take a 2-0 lead over the No. 1 seed.</p><p>The final bucket was trademark Pacers: Nembhard stole the inbound pass from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52639" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52639">Max Strus</a> with 27.5 seconds left, feeding Haliburton, who sought a game-tying three, only to drive the lane and get fouled. He made the first from the charity stripe but missed the second, grabbing the offensive board before backtracking toward the 3-point line.</p><p>Haliburton scored 11 of his 19 points in the final frame as the Pacers overcame a 19-point deficit, marking the first time they've snatched a 2-0 lead in a series on the road since 1994. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37711" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37711">Myles Turner</a> and Nesmith poured in 23 points each.</p><p>Mitchell led the way with 48 points for the shorthanded Cavaliers, who were without Garland, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a>, and Defensive Player of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> due to injuries.</p><h3>First round</h3><p><strong>Game 5: Pacers 119-118 Bucks (OT) </strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789138/cropped_GettyImages-2213191929.jpg?ts=1749186267" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789138/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213191929.jpg?ts=1749186267 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789138/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213191929.jpg?ts=1749186267 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789138/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213191929.jpg?ts=1749186267 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789138/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213191929.jpg?ts=1749186267 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789138/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213191929.jpg?ts=1749186267 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Murphy / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Doubt these Pacers at your own peril. It's been a theme of these playoffs, and it started in Game 5 of the first-round series versus the Milwaukee Bucks.</p><p>The Pacers trailed by 20 points in the third quarter and were behind 118-111 with 34.6 seconds left in overtime before Nembhard was the catalyst for a late surge. First, he drilled a trey with 34.1 seconds remaining to cut the deficit to 118-114, then he stole <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60234" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60234">Gary Trent Jr.</a>'s inbound pass near the sideline to set up Haliburton's three-point play to narrow the advantage to a single point.</p><p>Indiana again pressured Trent, who mishandled a long pass with 10.8 seconds left, setting up Haliburton for a <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1917383285220536634">game-winning layup</a> as the Pacers ended the game on an 8-0 run. Trent finished with 33 points and drained four of his eight attempts from deep in the extra frame, but those two miscues proved costly.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> added 30 points for the Bucks in a losing cause. The former MVP was confronted by Haliburton's father, John, sparking a postgame melee on the court.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 5: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers celebrates after scoring the game winning basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game One of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 5, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Haliburton, Pacers are comeback kings of NBA playoffs

Observers can be forgiven for not looking beyond the first selection at the 2025 WNBA Draft.  Pai...

<p>Observers can be forgiven for not looking beyond the first selection at the 2025 WNBA Draft.</p><p>Paige Bueckers' long-awaited arrival dominated the main storyline, but in the shadow of the Dallas Wings' no-brainer selection at No. 1, the Washington Mystics held a trio of potentially franchise-altering picks.</p><p>Fresh off a 14-26 campaign - their fourth sub-.500 season in five years since winning the title in 2019 - the Mystics entered the mid-April showcase with a new head coach in Sydney Johnson and a huge opportunity. Armed with the third, fourth, and sixth selections, Washington chose Notre Dame wing Sonia Citron, USC forward Kiki Iriafen, and Kentucky facilitator Georgia Amoore.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Amoore tore her ACL less than a week into training camp and was ruled out for the season, though the early-season heroics of Citron and Iriafen have softened the blow. Quite suddenly, the Mystics appear to have a foundation that could help them return to the heights they reached in 2019.</p><p>You could argue that Citron and Iriafen - and not Bueckers - have been the league's best rookies in the campaign's early stages.</p><p>Johnson inserted both into his starting five out of preseason, and they've looked the part. Citron and Iriafen are second and third on the team in points and minutes played, respectively, and their contributions have helped lighten the burden on leading scorer Brittney Sykes. For a franchise that desperately needed an infusion of young talent, Citron and Iriafen have answered the call.</p><h3>Citron: Versatile offensive weapon</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787932/cropped_GettyImages-2216383580.jpg?ts=1748560301" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787932/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216383580.jpg?ts=1748560301 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787932/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216383580.jpg?ts=1748560301 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787932/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216383580.jpg?ts=1748560301 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787932/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216383580.jpg?ts=1748560301 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787932/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216383580.jpg?ts=1748560301 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kate Frese / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Mystics finished the 2024 campaign ninth in both points per game (79.3) and field-goal percentage (43.2%), reflecting their overall uninspired offensive effort. But they still showed flashes from deep, finishing second in the league in three-point shooting at 36.6%.</p><p>Notre Dame has a strong recent history of producing WNBA-ready guards (Arike Ogunbowale, Skylar Diggins, and Jewell Loyd, among others), and Citron appears poised to join the celebrated list. The 21-year-old is a well-rounded player with the size to be a good perimeter defender who can guard multiple positions, skills she displayed in college to earn a spot on the ACC's All-Defensive team. While Citron lacks explosiveness on the defensive end, her smart decision-making consistently compensates, a strength already translating at the pro level.</p><p>However, it's on the offensive end where Citron has truly excelled. Through eight games, she third among all rookies in scoring (14.1 PPG) and is shooting 48.8% from the field, an impressive return for a player viewed mainly as a perimeter threat. Citron's also hitting 39.4<strong>%</strong> from beyond the arc on 4.1 attempts per contest and could become the second player in WNBA history, alongside Mystics icon Elena Delle Donne, to finish a season with 50/40/90 shooting splits. Granted, there are 36 games left on Washington's schedule, but the early signs for Citron are beyond expectations.</p><p>"She's become a pretty important player for us in a very short amount of time," Johnson told <a href="http://www.monumentalsportsnetwork.com/article/through-the-mystics-sonia-citron-is-learning-to-not-underestimate-herself">Monumental Sports Network's Tyler Byrum</a> in May. "We haven't even gotten started. If she stays healthy, there's going to be a lot of basketball coming her way."</p><h3>Iriafen: A much-needed two-way threat</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787929/cropped_GettyImages-2215451189.jpg?ts=1748560162" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787929/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215451189.jpg?ts=1748560162 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787929/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215451189.jpg?ts=1748560162 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787929/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215451189.jpg?ts=1748560162 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787929/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215451189.jpg?ts=1748560162 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787929/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215451189.jpg?ts=1748560162 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Mystics placed dead last in the WNBA in rebounding in 2024, perhaps prompting the urgency to take Iriafen with the fourth pick.</p><p>The 21-year-old has made an immediate impact, leading both the Mystics and all rookies with 10 rebounds per game. Iriafen ranks fourth league-wide in boards, ahead of established veterans like Brionna Jones, Aliyah Boston, and Nneka Ogwumike. And with five points-and-rebounds double-doubles already, she's played a significant role in propelling Washington to fourth in boards per contest.</p><p>Iriafen's physicality and positioning at the defensive end have instantly remedied much of what ailed the Mystics last season. The hope is that she and 2024 sixth overall pick Aaliyah Edwards can form the team's frontcourt for years to come.</p><p>But Iriafen's contributions aren't limited to just the defensive end of the court. She ranks second among rookies for points (14.6) and tops all first-year players averaging 15 or more minutes per game with a tidy 51.7<strong>%</strong> shooting clip from the field. Credit should go to USC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb and her offensive system for helping Iriafen prepare for the pro level in her one season with the Trojans. Rather than being confined to the low block, Iriafen frequently operated from the elbow and high post, polishing her footwork and decision-making.</p><p>Her finishing skills at the rim are already at a WNBA level, and she's an effective scorer out to 15 feet. As confidence in Iriafen's perimeter work develops, so will her already-versatile offensive repertoire.</p><p>Johnson also doesn't appear inclined to handle Iriafen like most rookies. "Really high expectations for her, to be perfectly blunt. ... She certainly earned the respect of her teammates," the Mystics bench boss <a href="http://x.com/theTylerByrum/status/1926072880174874628">told</a> Byrum in May. "But the true test comes against literally Hall of Fame players. ... The steadiness there, I think, is really impressive."</p><p>Washington isn't without its flaws, and an early-season habit of surrendering leads is problematic. Even so, the highly anticipated 2026 free agency period and the availability of many of the league's biggest names should coincide with Amoore's return to health. Paired with the emergence of Citron and Iriafen, the Mystics should have enough to inspire hope.</p>

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