Duke star Cameron Boozer has been named the 2026 Naismith Men's College Player of the Year.  The ...

Duke star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172510" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172510">Cameron Boozer</a> has been named the 2026 Naismith Men's College Player of the Year.The 6-foot-9 forward beat out fellow finalists <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/171881" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/171881">Darius Acuff Jr.</a> (Arkansas), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/173442" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/173442">AJ Dybantsa</a> (BYU), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110337" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110337">Yaxel Lendeborg</a> (Michigan).<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥. Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/CameronBoozer12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CameronBoozer12</a> of <a href="https://twitter.com/DukeMBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DukeMBB</a> on being named our 2026 Jersey Mike’s Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year.<a href="https://twitter.com/jerseymikes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jerseymikes</a> <a href="https://t.co/1KTd9CVELl">pic.twitter.com/1KTd9CVELl</a>— Naismith Awards (@NaismithTrophy) <a href="https://twitter.com/NaismithTrophy/status/2040814945625846136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Boozer gives the Blue Devils consecutive freshman winners after Cooper Flagg won the award before going first overall in the 2025 NBA draft. Boozer is one of three players believed to be in the mix for this year's top selection, joining Dybantsa and Kansas guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172193" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172193">Darryn Peterson</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He's the 10th men's player in school history to win the Naismith Trophy.Boozer, 18, started 38 games for the Blue Devils, topping the team in scoring (22.5 points) and leading the Atlantic Coast Conference with 10.2 rebounds per game. The 6-foot-9 forward posted 55.6/39.1/78.9 shooting splits and was also named the Associated Press Player of the Year.

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 2: Cameron Boozer #12 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts in the second half against the Florida Gators at Cameron Indoor Stadium on December 2, 2025 in Durham, North Carolina.

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Duke's Boozer named Naismith Men's Player of the Year

LeBron James doesn't believe the negative reception to his viral comments about Memphis is warran...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> doesn't believe the negative reception to his viral comments about Memphis is warranted."I'm 41 years old. There's two cities I do not like playing in right now. That's Milwaukee and that's Memphis. What is the problem with that?" the Los Angeles Lakers star said Saturday, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2040496066382999559">Dave McMenamin of ESPN</a>. "I don't like going home (to Cleveland) either, and I'm from there. People are ridiculous."They also get mad at my son for being on the team, too. So what are we talking about? People need to figure out other ways to put their energy to other things that are important. Like, seriously? I'm not talking about the city, like the people in Memphis. I don't like staying at the Hyatt Centric. What's wrong with that?"<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>James shot barbs at Milwaukee and Memphis during an appearance on a Bob Does Sports episode that released Thursday. The Lakers star aired his frustration with traveling to both cities before suggesting the Grizzlies relocate to Nashville."Being in Memphis on a f-----g random ass Thursday. I'm not the first guy to even talk about it in the NBA. We're all like, 'You guys have to move,'" James <a href="https://youtu.be/1-TBB3y88QQ?t=657">said</a> while golfing with the YouTuber. "Just go over to Nashville. You got Vanderbilt over there. You got the f-----g NASCAR. You got a stadium - don't they got a hockey team, too? They got everything."Memphis Mayor Paul Young defended the city after James' comments went viral and offered the four-time MVP an invitation to explore the city with him.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kingjames</a>, I would welcome the chance to turn your criticism into action in one of the most important cities in the world. Come to Memphis and roll around with me for a bit and I will show you some of the culture and powerful investment opportunities in our City.— Paul Young (@mayorpaulyoung) <a href="https://twitter.com/mayorpaulyoung/status/2040134000610533652?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>James will not have to play in Memphis, Milwaukee, or Cleveland again this season. The Lakers' only remaining road contests are against the Dallas Mavericks and Golden State Warriors on Sunday and Thursday, respectively. Los Angeles finishes the season at home April 12 against the Utah Jazz.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 23: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on March 23, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan.

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UConn head coach Geno Auriemma issued an apology for his heated exchange with South Carolina coun...

UConn head coach Geno Auriemma issued an apology for his heated exchange with South Carolina counterpart Dawn Staley at the end of their Final Four matchup Friday."There's no excuse for how I handled the end of the game vs. South Carolina," the longtime Huskies coach said Saturday in a statement. "It's unlike what I do and what our standard is here at Connecticut."I want to apologize to the staff and the team at South Carolina. It was uncalled for in how I reacted. The story should be how well South Carolina played, and I don't want my actions to detract from that. I've had a great relationship with their staff, and I sincerely want to apologize to them."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>As the clock ticked down on the Gamecocks' 62-48 win, the two met near midcourt to exchange a handshake. That's when Auriemma said something that set off Staley, prompting her assistants and the referees to step in.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Geno Auriemma exchanged words with Dawn Staley in the final seconds of South Carolina and UConn’s Final Four matchup. <a href="https://t.co/S6anlPKqwe">pic.twitter.com/S6anlPKqwe</a>— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/2040235702223286734?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Auriemma said postgame that his issue with Staley stemmed from the South Carolina icon stranding him as he waited for a routine pregame handshake."The protocol is, before the game, you meet at half court," he told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7171312/2026/04/04/geno-auriemma-dawn-staley-rivalry/">The Athletic's Jerry Brewer</a>. "I waited there for like three minutes."Staley, who will try to win her fourth national championship in Sunday's showdown against UCLA, deferred questions about the incident to Auriemma."He's the one that initiated the conversation," Staley said. "I don't want what happened there to dampen what we were able to accomplish."

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - MARCH 27: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies looks on during the third quarter against the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Dickies Arena on March 27, 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas.

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Auriemma apologizes to South Carolina for exchange with Staley

The Detroit Tigers placed starter Justin Verlander on the 15-day injured list Saturday due to hip...

The Detroit Tigers placed starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/195">Justin Verlander</a> on the 15-day injured list Saturday due to hip inflammation.The move is retroactive to April 1.In a corresponding move, Detroit called up Triple-A right-hander Keider Montero.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Verlander, who this offseason returned to the franchise in which he won his first Cy Young in 2011, struggled in his season debut Monday. The nine-time All-Star lasted just 3 2/3 innings and allowed five earned runs on six hits, including a second-inning home run to Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12531" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12531">Corbin Carroll</a>.In February, the 43-year-old Verlander signed a one-year deal with Detroit worth $13 million. Sunday was supposed to be his triumphant return to Comerica Park."I know a lot of fans were excited about tomorrow night, and I know a lot of people spent their hard-earned money to come to the game," Verlander said, according to <a href="https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2026/04/04/justin-verlander-goes-on-injured-list-for-detroit-tigers/89466932007/">Chris McCosky of The Detroit News</a>. "It's frustrating for me, obviously. ... Not how I wanted my first start at home to go. I was looking forward to it."Montero, 25, made 12 starts and eight relief appearances for the Tigers last season, tossing a 4.37 ERA over 90 2/3 innings. He'll start the series finale in place of Verlander.

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 30: Justin Verlander #35 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on Monday, March 30, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Verlander lands on 15-day IL with hip inflammation

Why wait for the season to start? Click here and tap the ⭐ to subscribe to Toronto Tempo alerts a...

Why wait for the season to start? Click <a href="thescore:///wnba/teams/3685">here</a> and tap the ⭐ to subscribe to Toronto Tempo alerts ahead of the 2026 WNBA season, and click <a href="thescore:///wnba/teams/3686">here</a> for Portland Fire alerts.Click <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3510682" href="https://thescore.com/news/3510682">here</a> to view the complete results of the expansion draft.The Toronto Tempo took <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/83898" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/83898">Julie Allemand</a> of the Los Angeles Sparks with their first pick in Friday's expansion draft, making the Belgian the first player in franchise history.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Toronto chose the guard after Portland selected Minnesota Lynx forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/47616" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/47616">Bridget Carleton</a> with the top pick.Allemand, 29, averaged 5.4 points, five assists, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 34 games with Los Angeles last season, making 27 starts. Allemand, whom the Indiana Fever picked in the third round in 2016, won back-to-back EuroBasket championships with Belgium in 2023 and 2025, making the All-Tournament team both times.The Tempo and Fire had the opportunity to pluck an unprotected player from any franchise except the Chicago Sky, who made their entire roster untouchable by trading a first-round pick to both expansion clubs.

PHOENIX, AZ - SEPTEMBER 9: Julie Allemand #20 of the Los Angeles Sparks handles the ball during the game against the Phoenix Mercury on September 9, 2025 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Tempo make Allemand franchise's 1st player through expansion draft

Why wait for the season to start? Click <a href="thescore:///wnba/teams/3685">here</a> and tap the ⭐ to subscribe to Toronto Tempo alerts ahead of the 2026 WNBA season, and click <a href="thescore:///wnba/teams/3686">here</a> for Portland Fire alerts.The Portland Fire selected <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/47616" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/47616">Bridget Carleton</a> of the Minnesota Lynx with the top pick in the 2026 WNBA expansion draft Friday.Portland received the first pick after the Toronto Tempo, who won a coin toss between the two in March, opted for a higher selection (No. 6 instead of 7) in the WNBA's rookie draft.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Carleton started a combined 50 regular-season and playoff games for the Lynx in 2025 and was a key defensive figure for Cheryl Reeve's squad. The Canadian vet averaged 6.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and two assists while shooting 37.3% from behind the arc to help Minnesota finish with a league-best 34 regular-season wins and an appearance in the WNBA semifinals.The Fire and Tempo had the opportunity to pluck an unprotected player from any franchise except the Chicago Sky, who made their entire roster untouchable by trading a first-round pick to both expansion clubs.

UNCASVILLE, CT - AUGUST 30: Minnesota Lynx forward Bridget Carleton (6) handles the ball during the WNBA game between Minnesota Lynx and Connecticut Sun on August 30, 2025, at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.

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Fire nab Carleton with 1st pick of WNBA expansion draft

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry is expected to be available for Sunday's matchup against...

Golden State Warriors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> is expected to be available for Sunday's matchup against former teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> and the Houston Rockets, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/2040147364841677291">ESPN's Shams Charania and Anthony Slater</a>.Curry has missed Golden State's last 27 games because of a knee issue. He participated in scrimmages Tuesday and Wednesday and suffered no setbacks. The 38-year-old last played on Jan. 30 against the Detroit Pistons.Golden State has struggled without Curry, going 9-18 during his current absence. In total, the team is 13-25 this season when he doesn't play, compared to 23-16 when Curry suits up.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Warriors are 36-41 heading into the final stretch of the regular season. They sit 10th in the Western Conference and are locked into the play-in tournament. Curry is averaging a team-leading 27.2 points in 39 contests this season.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 01: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors smiles as he warms up before their game against the San Antonio Spurs at Chase Center on April 01, 2026 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement.

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Report: Curry on course to return Sunday vs. Rockets

Arizona and head coach Tommy Lloyd have agreed to a new contract, he announced Friday.   The five...

Arizona and head coach Tommy Lloyd have agreed to a new contract, he announced Friday. The five-year extension, which averages $7.5 million per season, puts Lloyd among the top five highest-paid college basketball coaches, according to <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/2040118584572023177?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel and Jeff Borzello</a>. The deal also reportedly includes significant bonuses and an increased commitment to the staff salary pool.The contract removes Lloyd from the running for North Carolina's open head coaching position.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Arizona basketball, you guys know what it means to me," Lloyd <a href="https://x.com/PHNX_Wildcats/status/2040118353243914602">told</a> reporters Friday ahead of Saturday's Final Four showdown with Michigan. "When I say it's a special place, that always comes from the bottom of my heart."I didn't want to make this entire Final Four about that because I'm just a small part of something much bigger. But on that same note, I'd also like to let you know that North Carolina is an amazing place. It's a one-of-one. It's an honor to even be considered for that job. The young kid - for me, the college basketball junkie - watching those games at home never would have thought something like that could have happened to somebody like me."North Carolina's offer to Lloyd would have made him one of the two highest-paid coaches in the sport, reports <a href="https://twitter.com/MattNorlander/status/2040118749219414070">Matt Norlander of CBS Sports</a>.As part of his new deal with Arizona, the 51-year-old will no longer report to athletic director Desiree Reed-Francois, Norlander adds.The Wildcats have reached the NCAA Tournament in each of their five seasons under Lloyd, who led the program to its first Final Four in 25 years.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 22: Head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the first half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.

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Lloyd takes Arizona extension, rebuffing North Carolina

Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu are shutting down the rumors before they can begin.  While bo...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27502" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27502">Breanna Stewart</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55066" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55066">Sabrina Ionescu</a> are shutting down the rumors before they can begin.While both New York Liberty stars are set to become free agents this offseason, they each confirmed Wednesday that they plan to return to the franchise where they have been teammates for the last three seasons."I'm gonna just set the record straight here: I will be staying in New York. I'm not planning on taking any free agency meetings, even though I am an unrestricted free agent," Stewart said on the "<a href="https://youtu.be/YJiHAxZcRXM?t=2137">Game Recognize Game</a>" podcast, which she co-hosts with Myles Turner of the NBA's Milwaukee Bucks.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>She added, "Good luck to everybody else in free agency, but I'm not a part of that."Ionescu, meanwhile, shared her intention to return to the team at USA Basketball's training camp."Obviously I'm where I'm supposed to be," the four-time All-WNBA star said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48371687/breanna-stewart-sabrina-ionescu-say-re-sign-liberty">ESPN's Alexa Philippou</a>. "Never thought anything different, and so excited to be able to sign and get started. It's coming up really quickly, so excited to get all this behind us and just be able to start our season and get going in New York."Neither Stewart nor Ionescu confirmed terms of their new contracts with New York. However, thanks to the league's new collective bargaining agreement, the deals will likely come with a substantial pay increase from the $222K they each earned in 2025.Free agents are expected to receive permission to negotiate with teams later in April.Stewart led the Liberty in scoring last season, averaging 18.3 points along with 6.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks. However, she missed 13 games because of a bone bruise in her right knee. She returned for New York's final seven regular-season games before its first-round series loss to the Phoenix Mercury.The pair are among six unrestricted free agents for the Liberty this offseason, a list that includes 2021 MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27540" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27540">Jonquel Jones</a> and three-time All-Defensive pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18106" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18106">Natasha Cloud</a>.

BROOKLYN, NY - JULY 22: Breanna Stewart #30 and Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty looks on during the game against the Indiana Fever during a WNBA game on July 22, 2025 at Barclays Center Arena in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Stewart, Ionescu both plan to re-sign with Liberty in free agency

A familiar face nearly convinced Tom Izzo to make the jump to the NBA.  The longtime Michigan Sta...

A familiar face nearly convinced Tom Izzo to make the jump to the NBA.The longtime Michigan State bench boss revealed Wednesday that he spoke with Phoenix Suns owner and former Spartans guard Mat Ishbia about becoming the Suns' head coach before the team hired Jordan Ott in June 2025."I've had more than a couple job offers in the NBA and looked at one last year with Phoenix ... my former player, Mat Ishbia. That was hard, that was a hard thing to turn down," Izzo said on "<a href="https://x.com/dpshow/status/2039359058340123042">The Dan Patrick Show</a>." "Because No. 1, I wanted to go with him."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>When Patrick asked whether Phoenix had offered the job, Izzo kept his response vague."We talked seriously about it, let's say that," Izzo said.The decision appears to have benefited both Izzo and Ott, with the latter beating out fellow Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Johnnie Bryant to secure his first NBA head coaching position. Having previously worked under Izzo at Michigan State from 2008-13, Ott has the Suns sitting in seventh in the Western Conference at 42-34 this season.Meanwhile, Izzo is fresh off a sixth straight March Madness and 28th NCAA Tournament overall. He almost certainly would have made it 29 straight had the 2020 tournament not been cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.Izzo and Ishbia's history dates back to Ishbia's 1999-00 freshman season, when he joined the Spartans as a walk-on point guard on the national championship team. Though he played sparingly throughout his college career, Ishbia appeared in 48 games over three years under Izzo, including one start as a junior.A 2016 Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, Izzo has occasionally been linked to NBA coaching positions throughout his 31-year tenure at Michigan State. In June 2010, he revealed he turned down the Cleveland Cavaliers, citing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>' impending free agency as a significant factor. A month later, James announced on "The Decision" that he was leaving his hometown team and taking his talents to South Beach.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 25: Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia and Michigan State University head basketball coach Tom Izzo talk prior to game five of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs between the LA Clippers and the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on April 25, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Izzo 'talked seriously' with Ishbia about Suns' head coaching job

If the Toronto Maple Leafs are cleaning house, it won't be done overnight.  While the team notifi...

If the Toronto Maple Leafs are cleaning house, it won't be done overnight.While the team notified Craig Berube of general manager Brad Treliving's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3454465" href="https://thescore.com/news/3454465">firing</a> Monday, the Leafs head coach wasn't given any indication about his status with the club beyond this season, sources told <a href="https://x.com/DarrenDreger/status/2038786803302359496">Darren Dreger of TSN</a>.Berube, whom Treliving hired in May 2024 to replace Sheldon Keefe, will have two years remaining on his contract following this season. However, the Leafs are on course for their worst campaign since posting 29 wins in 2015-16 - the last time they failed to reach the postseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The disappointing season marks a drastic turnaround from Berube's first year behind the bench when Toronto finished with 108 points - second most in the Eastern Conference - and made the second round of the playoffs for just the second time since the 2003-04 campaign.Berube joined the Leafs after winning 206 of 382 regular-season games over six seasons with the St. Louis Blues. He led the organization to its only Stanley Cup in his first season with St. Louis in 2018-19.

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 25: Head coach Craig Berube of the Toronto Maple Leafs speaks to media prior to the game against the New York Rangers at Scotiabank Arena on March 25, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Don't expect to hear Joe Mazzulla plead his case for Coach of the Year.  The 37-year-old is a str...

Don't expect to hear Joe Mazzulla plead his case for Coach of the Year.The 37-year-old is a strong candidate to win the honor for the first time this year, thanks to his work in keeping an undermanned Boston Celtics side in the mix for the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed.However, Mazzulla adamantly dismissed the possibility Monday and argued the league should actually do away with the annual hardware.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I don't need it," Mazzulla said, courtesy of <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7159253/2026/03/30/joe-mazzulla-coach-of-the-year-nba-jayson-tatum/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Jay King</a>. "I think it's a stupid award. They shouldn't have it. And it's more about the players. It's more about the work that the staff puts in. It's just that simple. I really don't ever want to be asked or talked about it again. It's just that dumb."So, the players play. It's about them. Staff works their ass off. I'm grateful to have them."Mazzulla came third in Coach of the Year voting in 2023, finishing behind Mark Daigneault of the Oklahoma City Thunder and unanimous winner Mike Brown, then with the Sacramento Kings.In 2024, Mazzulla finished in fourth despite leading the Celtics to a league-best 64-18 regular-season record before their championship playoff run. (NBA awards are voted on prior to the postseason.) Daigneault won the award that year after guiding Oklahoma City to the top seed in the West with a 57-25 mark.With eight contests remaining, the Celtics are four games back of the top-seeded Detroit Pistons despite star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> missing the team's first 62 games while recovering from Achilles surgery. After going just 11-9 through November, Mazzulla's shorthanded squad jumped from eighth to third by producing a 9-3 mark in December. Boston hasn't been lower than second place since Jan. 14.

Boston, MA - February 1: Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla reacts to an official's call in the third quarter. The Boston Celtics played the Milwaukee Bucks at TD Garden on February 1, 2026.

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Mazzulla sounds off on 'stupid' COTY award: 'It's just that dumb'

The Chicago Bulls waived Jaden Ivey due to "conduct detrimental to the team," the franchise annou...

The Chicago Bulls waived <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102756" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102756">Jaden Ivey</a> due to "conduct detrimental to the team," the franchise announced Monday.Ivey's dismissal comes hours after he made anti-LGBQT+ comments during a live Instagram stream earlier Monday, which was then posted to his account as a near 43-minute video.While discussing religion and other subjects at length, the fourth-year guard denounced the LGBTQ+ community and criticized the NBA for celebrating Pride Month, which he called a promotion of "unrighteousness."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Detroit Pistons drafted Ivey fifth overall in 2022, and Chicago acquired him in a three-team deal involving the Minnesota Timberwolves on Feb. 3. The 24-year-old played in four games after arriving in Chicago but had been held out of the team's 19 games since. In 37 combined appearances for the Pistons and Bulls this season, he averaged 8.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists.Ivey would have become a restricted free agent at the end of the season.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 09: Jaden Ivey #31 of the Chicago Bulls looks on during the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on February 09, 2026 in New York City.

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Bulls cut Ivey following anti-LGBTQ+ comments

NBA commissioner Adam Silver still supports the 65-game requirement for player awards and indicat...

NBA commissioner Adam Silver still supports the 65-game requirement for player awards and indicated the league isn't looking to change the rule."I'm not ready to (stand) here saying, 'I don't think it's working.' I think it is working," Silver <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/2036876631953043461">said</a> following a board of governors meeting Wednesday. "I think if you look at the numbers, the pre-implementation of this rule, the numbers were going in the wrong direction."Beginning with the 2023-24 campaign, the league instituted a 65-game minimum for end-of-season player awards, including MVP and All-NBA teams. The aim was to dissuade teams from "load managing" their biggest stars, which was a growing trend in the wake of the Toronto Raptors' success while balancing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a>'s quad and knee concerns during their title-winning 2018-19 campaign.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>However, the rule has attracted renewed criticism in recent weeks. Detroit Pistons star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> was playing in his 61st game of the regular season March 17 when he suffered a collapsed lung five minutes into their matchup against the Washington Wizards. With Cunningham uncertain to return before the end of the regular season, the National Basketball Players Association on Tuesday <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3507166" href="https://thescore.com/news/3507166">called</a> for the 65-game awards requirement to be changed, if not outright abolished."I'm not ready to say, standing here today, that because there may be a sense of unfairness for one player, that the rule doesn't work," Silver added.Other MVP hopefuls are also at risk of becoming ineligible, including three-time winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> and San Antonio Spurs phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a>. Jokic must play in eight of the Denver Nuggets' remaining nine contests to hit 65 games, while Wembanyama, who boldly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3506848" href="https://thescore.com/news/3506848">argued</a> his own MVP case Monday, must appear in at least seven of the Spurs' final 10 games.Though he has slightly more of a buffer, reigning MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> hasn't secured his eligibility, either; the Oklahoma City Thunder guard is at 60 regular-season games with 10 to play.

Basketball: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver speaks to the media during a press conference at the St. Regis Hotel New York, NY 9/10/2025CREDIT: Erick W. Rasco

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Silver: NBA's 65-game rule for player awards 'is working'

Kansas head coach Bill Self denied rumblings suggesting he's decided to retire after 23 seasons w...

Kansas head coach Bill Self denied rumblings suggesting he's decided to retire after 23 seasons with the Jayhawks."No news. All b.s.," Self wrote in a text message to <a href="https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article315182003.html">The Kansas City Star's Gary Bedore</a> on Wednesday. "Bad info."There were rumors that the longtime Kansas boss was going to announce his retirement Wednesday, though a source close to the coach also told <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/2036803655425208685">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a> that was "bad information."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Speculation about Self's future intensified following the Jayhawks' 67-65 second-round loss to St. John's in the NCAA Tournament on Sunday. The two-time Associated Press Coach of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3505990" href="https://thescore.com/news/3505990">revealed</a> that he had not yet committed to returning to Allen Fieldhouse in 2026-27 due to concerns about his health. Self, 63, said he intended to make a decision once he spoke with his family.The Kansas bench boss does not have a timeline for a decision, he told Bedore.In 2023, Self had two stents inserted to treat blocked arteries near his heart and missed the Jayhawks' entire postseason. He had another two stents inserted in July 2025. Self missed a road game against Colorado this January after a precautionary trip to the hospital, where he received IV fluids after reporting feeling unwell."I've gone through some stuff off the court, so I'll get back and get with family and visit and see what's going on," Self said after Sunday's loss. "I love what I do. I need to be able to do it where I'm feeling good and healthy to do it fairly well. I'll get back home and it will all be discussed."The Oklahoma native joined the Jayhawks ahead of the 2003-04 campaign and has since claimed two national titles in 2008 and 2022.In his 23 total seasons at the helm, the only year in which Kansas did not play in the NCAA Tournament was 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the Big 12 Tournament and March Madness. However, the Jayhawks were the top seed after winning the regular-season crown and likely would have received an at-large bid if they didn't win the conference tournament.Self was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 22: Head coach Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks gestures during the first half against the St. John's Red Storm in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.

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Self dismisses Kansas retirement rumors as 'bad info'

The Milwaukee Bucks are waiving guard Cam Thomas, the team announced.  Thomas signed with Milwauk...

The Milwaukee Bucks are waiving guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96032" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96032">Cam Thomas</a>, the team announced.Thomas signed with Milwaukee on Feb. 8 after being cut by the Brooklyn Nets days prior. He averaged 10.7 points in 18 games with the Bucks.With the open roster spot left by Thomas' departure, Milwaukee is converting forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/111214" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/111214">Pete Nance</a>'s two-way contract to a standard NBA deal.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 24-year-old Thomas will not be eligible for the postseason if he ends up signing with a playoff team since he was signed after the March 1 cutoff.Thomas averaged 15.6 points in 24 games for Brooklyn this year after picking up his qualifying offer, which remains the second-highest scoring output by anyone on the Nets this season. The franchise reportedly long sought to trade the LSU product but eventually released him after failing to find a trade partner by the February deadline.After landing in Milwaukee, the 27th overall pick in the 2021 draft appeared to take a shot at his former club when he blamed Brooklyn for not showing trust in him."They don’t believe in nobody," he told <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/02/27/sports/bucks-cam-thomas-shreds-nets-after-ugly-divorce/">Stefan Bondy of the New York Post</a>.Thomas owns career averages of 15.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists with shooting splits of 43.5/34/85.1 over five NBA seasons.

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 21: Cam Thomas #24 of the Milwaukee Bucks drives to the basket during the game against the Phoenix Suns on March 21, 2026 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Bucks waive Cam Thomas after 18 games

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant passed Michael Jordan for fifth on the NBA's all-time regula...

Houston Rockets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> passed Michael Jordan for fifth on the NBA's all-time regular-season scoring leaderboard in Saturday's 123-122 win over the Miami Heat.Durant, a 16-time All-Star, vaulted Jordan with a three from the corner off a pass from Reed Sheppard. The field goal, his ninth of the contest and fifth from deep, helped Houston extend a late fourth-quarter lead over the Heat.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kevin Durant corner 3, assisted by Reed Sheppard! <a href="https://t.co/Q3XXChqg4d">pic.twitter.com/Q3XXChqg4d</a>— Rockets Clips (@Rockets_Clips) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockets_Clips/status/2035540165402165298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Games</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>LeBron James*</td>
<td>43241</td>
<td>1612</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>38387</td>
<td>1560</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Karl Malone</td>
<td>36928</td>
<td>1476</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Kobe Bryant</td>
<td>33643</td>
<td>1346</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Kevin Durant*</td>
<td>32294</td>
<td>1190</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Michael Jordan</td>
<td>32292</td>
<td>1072</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Dirk Nowitzki</td>
<td>31560</td>
<td>1522</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td>31419</td>
<td>1045</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>James Harden*</td>
<td>29160</td>
<td>1212</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Shaquille O'Neal</td>
<td>28596</td>
<td>1207</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>*Active<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Rockets held on to win thanks to an <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110271" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110271">Amen Thompson</a> tip-in at the buzzer off Durant's missed attempt. The play saved Ime Udoka's squad from what would have been a painful collapse on Durant's historic night. Houston held an eight-point lead with 3:25 to play, but the Heat stormed back with a 13-4 run to take the lead with five seconds left, setting the stage for Thompson's winner."It is pretty sweet to be in the same category with the greats," Durant <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/2035568511385239571">said</a> after the win."A lot of these guys have inspired me to come out here and work on my game as much as I can and contribute to a team in a positive way. ... MJ is in a world of his own. He's in a planet, a galaxy, of his own as somebody that I look up to, respect, and who basically shaped the game for me."Durant surpassed both Dirk Nowitzki and Wilt Chamberlain on the all-time scoring list earlier in the season. He also climbed to 10th place in all-time 3-pointers made during the 2025-26 campaign, overtaking Vince Carter.The 37-year-old is in his 18th NBA season and playing for his fifth different franchise. A four-time scoring champion (2010-12, 2014), Durant missed the entire 2019-20 campaign after rupturing his Achilles tendon in Game 5 of the 2019 NBA Finals.Durant, who joined the Rockets from the Phoenix Suns as part of an NBA-record seven-team blockbuster trade, leads the team with 25.7 points per game on 51.7% shooting heading into Saturday.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 21: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets looks on during the game between the Miami Heat and the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on March 21, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

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Durant passes Jordan for 5th on NBA's all-time scoring list

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic accused Orlando Magic's Goga Bitadze of insulting his family ...

Los Angeles Lakers star <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> accused Orlando Magic's <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/76007">Goga Bitadze</a> of insulting his family in Serbian during an exchange between the pair during Saturday's 105-104 win, resulting in both players receiving double technical fouls."I let my team down getting that last tech," Doncic told reporters postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/khobi_price/status/2035545260454023674">Khobi Price of the California Post</a>. "But honestly, I wasn't trying to. He said if we talk, he would 'f--- my whole family.' At some point, this is a basketball court. ... I got to stand up for myself. But I know I got to do better."However, Bitadze disputed Doncic's version of events and suggested the Slovenian was the first to hurl insults, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2035550799485358409">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><blockquote>
I have all the respect for Luka and what he has done. I really respect everybody's family. Where I come from, it's really sacred and we really respect each other's family. I would never directly say that. ... He just said some inappropriate things in the Serbian language. I played in Serbia, and I understand. I don't know if he knew I understood what he said, so I just said it back.
It was nothing towards his family or anybody. His family, I really, truly respect them. What (Doncic) came out and said, I don't think that's the truth. I know that's not the truth. I know what I said. ... I apologize if it crossed the line. He said something about my mother, which is really inappropriate. We don't say that stuff. ... So I just said whatever he told me about my mother and said it back. That was pretty much it."
</blockquote>Officials assessed Doncic and Bitadze with double technicals late in the third quarter after the Lakers guard appeared to say something to the Magic center while running back on defense. Doncic said the exchange between him and Bitadze initially began on the previous possession.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Luka Doncic receives his 16th tech of the season and if it stands he will be suspended for Monday’s game vs. the Pistons. <a href="https://t.co/UNUABrb6W2">pic.twitter.com/UNUABrb6W2</a>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/2035523907529097530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>With the technical being Doncic's 16th of the season, Lakers head coach JJ Redick said the team would appeal the foul in hopes the star would avoid an automatic one-game suspension. In their appeal to the league, the Lakers contend that Bitadze should have received a warning before the refs issued the technicals, a source told <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2035546453108457625">McMenamin</a>."We'll obviously try to get that rescinded," Lakers coach JJ Redick <a href="https://x.com/big_business_/status/2035536978519667166">said</a> postgame. "Not sure what happened. I do know there were certain things said in a language that the referees couldn't understand in references to Luka's mom."Bitadze, 26, was born in Georgia but signed with Serbian club Mega Basket in 2016. He remained under contract in Serbia until 2019, when he was drafted 18th overall by the Indiana Pacers.Doncic never played in Serbia but is fluent in the language.Despite the technical, Doncic finished with 33 points, shooting 12-of-30 (3-of-13 from distance). He also added eight assists, five rebounds, and four steals to help Los Angeles win its ninth straight. Redick's squad will visit the Eastern Conference-leading Pistons on Monday, though Detroit will be without star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a>, who's expected to be out until April with a collapsed lung.

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 12: Luka Doncic #77 and Head Coach JJ Redick of the Los Angeles Lakers talk during the game against the Chicago Bulls on March 12, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Doncic claims Bitadze insulted his family in Serbian 

A skirmish broke out midway through the Oklahoma City Thunder's 132-111 win over the Washington W...

A skirmish broke out midway through the Oklahoma City Thunder's 132-111 win over the Washington Wizards on Saturday, sending players from both teams into the baseline seats at Capital One Arena.As Thunder big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102798" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102798">Jaylin Williams</a> prepared to inbound the ball following a made basket by Wizards forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93884" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93884">Anthony Gill</a>, the former exchanged quick shoves with forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96046" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96046">Justin Champagnie</a> under the basket. Referee Nate Green quickly separated the two.Champagnie then made contact with the face of Thunder guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121739" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121739">Ajay Mitchell</a>, prompting players from both teams to rush over, which knocked some of them into the seats behind the stanchion.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thunder Wizards scuffle <a href="https://t.co/Nn4dEGkWdt">pic.twitter.com/Nn4dEGkWdt</a>— Moonball (@moonball30) <a href="https://twitter.com/moonball30/status/2035478559859589156?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Mitchell, Williams, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110284" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110284">Cason Wallace</a> were tossed for the Thunder, while the Wizards lost Champagnie for the remainder of the contest.Oklahoma City entered the break up 69-64. Mark Daigneault's squad outscored Washington 63-47 in the second half to ensure its 11th straight victory and maintain a 3.5-game lead over the San Antonio Spurs for the league's best record.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>, who was on the court during the altercation but not directly involved, led all scorers with 40 points, extending his NBA-record streak to 130 games of at least 20 points.

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 21: Ajay Mitchell #25 of the Oklahoma City Thunder is pulled out of a scrum of players by teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 during the first half at Capital One Arena on March 21, 2026 in Washington, DC. Ajay Mitchell #25 of the Oklahoma City Thunder received a double technical and ejected from the contest.

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4 ejected after Thunder-Wizards scuffle spills into seats

The Miami (Ohio) storybook season continues.  Junior forward Eian Elmer scored 23 points to lead ...

The Miami (Ohio) storybook season continues.Junior forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110727" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110727">Eian Elmer</a> scored 23 points to lead the RedHawks past SMU 89-79 in the NCAA Tournament's First Four on Wednesday.Miami will move on to face No. 6 seed Tennessee on Friday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Mustangs led 49-48 when the RedHawks responded with a 15-1 run, including two threes by Icelandic forward Almar Atlason, to break open a double-digit lead for the first time in the game. Miami hit a total of 16 threes, 10 of which came in the first half.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Miami rained in 1️⃣6️⃣ threes against SMU 🥵☔️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarchMadness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarchMadness</a> <a href="https://t.co/lqWWgF9844">pic.twitter.com/lqWWgF9844</a>— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/2034478914806903072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>SMU trimmed the deficit to seven but couldn't fully overcome Miami's momentum.Jaden Toombs recorded a team-high 20 points for the Mustangs, while Jaron Pierre added 18.Miami last won an NCAA Tournament game in 1999, when it reached the Midwest Region semifinals before falling to Kentucky.

DAYTON, OHIO - MARCH 18: Trey Perry #1 of the Miami (OH) Redhawks reacts to a good play against the SMU Mustangs during the First Four round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball tournament held at UD Arena on March 18, 2026 in Dayton, Ohio.

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Miami (OH) rallies in 2nd half to knock off SMU in First Four

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