NEW YORK &ndash; The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the National Basketball Referees Association (NBRA) announced today that they have entered into a new collective bargaining agreement.
The seven-year agreement will begin with the 2022-23 season and run through the 2028-29 season. Per league policy, terms of the agreement will not be disclosed.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark">
The NBRA ratifies 7-year contract with the NBA and is pleased with the outcome of the negotiations. <a href="https://t.co/22NHS6SFn6">pic.twitter.com/22NHS6SFn6</a>
&mdash; NBA Referees (@OfficialNBARefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialNBARefs/status/1570430709080231939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

The seven-year agreement will begin with the 2022-23 season and run through the 2028-29 season.

NBA, National Basketball Referees Association approve 7-year CBA

TOKYO &ndash; The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that a record 13 marketing partners will support The NBA Japan Games 2022 Presented by Rakuten &amp; Nissan, which will feature the 2022 NBA champion Golden State Warriors and the Washington Wizards playing two preseason games on Friday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. JST and Sunday, Oct. 2 at 2 p.m. JST at Saitama Super Arena, marking the league&rsquo;s 15th and 16th games in the country. &nbsp;The 13 marketing partners are the most-ever for an NBA game in Japan and include Rakuten, Nissan, 2K, American Express, Hennessy, Hokka, Instyle Group, NEC, Nike, SAP, ServiceNow, Sun Chlorella, and Tissot.
In addition to the two games, the league will also host NBA Japan Games Saturday Night 2022 Presented by Rakuten &amp; Nissan on Saturday, Oct. 1 at 5 p.m. JST at Saitama Super Arena. &nbsp;The event will celebrate the game of basketball and showcase the convergence of the NBA and popular culture for a unique fan experience featuring appearances by Warriors and Wizards players, NBA legends and special celebrity guests, a slam dunk contest featuring professional dunkers, a &ldquo;Shooting Stars&rdquo; challenge, a three-point contest featuring players from the Warriors and Wizards, a musical performance by Japanese rock duo Yuzu, and more.
The games and NBA Saturday Night will be available on NBA Rakuten and livestreamed for free on the NBA Rakuten YouTube channel and Rakuten TV, and will reach fans in more than 200 countries and territories on television, digital and social media. &nbsp;NBA merchandise is available on NBAStore.jp, the official online NBA store in Japan.
Highlights of partner activations for The NBA Japan Games 2022 and NBA Saturday Night include:
Rakuten
&bull; Building on their experience serving as Presenting Partner of the games in 2019, Rakuten will serve as Co-presenting Partner of the games and NBA Saturday Night this year. &nbsp;Rakuten will also receive in-arena and on-court branding and will host a variety of activations and fan activities during the games and NBA Saturday Night.
Nissan
&bull; As Co-presenting Partner of the games and NBA Saturday Night, Nissan will receive in-arena and on-court branding, and will leverage its innovation to host a variety of fan activities to add excitement to the week&rsquo;s events.
&bull; Nissan will also conduct a range of campaigns, including ticket giveaways and sweepstakes, giving fans the opportunity to serve as a court sweeper at the NBA Japan Games.
2K
&bull; 2K, a wholly owned label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO) and publisher of the leading global basketball video game NBA 2K, will host a booth at Saitama Super Arena where fans can play the recently released NBA 2K23 video game on a PlayStation&reg;5 (PS5&trade;) console. &nbsp;An NBA legend will make an appearance at the booth and interact with fans at The NBA Japan Games 2022.
&bull; 2K will also host a contest on the 2K Japan Twitter account that will award six winners with a pair of tickets to attend The NBA Japan Games 2022.
American Express
&bull; As an Official Partner of The NBA Japan Games 2022 and NBA Saturday Night, American Express will offer its cardholders a 15% discount at NBA Japan Games merchandise booths at Saitama Super Arena throughout the games and NBA Saturday Night.
Hennessy
&bull; As the Official Spirit of the NBA, Hennessy, which staged iconic court activations across the Asia-Pacific region during the 2021-22 season, will offer cocktails at their booth on the concourse of Saitama Super Arena throughout the games and NBA Saturday Night.
&bull; During the NBA Japan Games 2022 Welcome Reception Presented by NEC, Hennessy will serve an assortment of NBA-themed cocktails throughout the event. &nbsp;Additionally, Hennessy will host &ldquo;The Hennessy x NBA Afterparty&rdquo; on Friday, Sept. 30, which will be an invitation only event.
NEC
&bull; As the Official Biometrics Partner of The NBA Japan Games 2022, NEC will provide a hands-free, speedy and secure payment system using its latest multimodal face and iris recognition technology at the games and NBA Saturday Night. &nbsp;Fans can register in advance through a link that will be published on the event website to experience the convenience on-site.
&bull; NEC will also serve as the Presenting Partner of The NBA Japan Games 2022 Welcome Reception, where it will present its latest technology to invited guests in attendance.
Nike
&bull; As the Official Outfitter of the NBA, Nike will offer select merchandise from the Warriors and Wizards at NBA Japan Games merchandise booths at Saitama Super Arena, Nike.com and select retail partners.
Sun Chlorella
&bull; Celebrating its 53rd anniversary this year, Sun Chlorella, a health food company dedicated to working alongside athletes to help them achieve excellence, will hold a promotion to provide its customers with the opportunity to win tickets to the NBA Japan Games 2022. &nbsp;Additional details about the promotion will be announced at a later date.
Tissot
&bull; As the Official Timekeeper of the NBA, Tissot will provide fans the opportunity to participate in a shooting contest at their booth in Saitama Super Arena for a chance to win special prizes.
&bull; On Saturday, Oct. 1, four-time NBA champion and Tissot brand ambassador Klay Thompson will participate in a fan meet-and-greet at Tissot&rsquo;s newest concept store in Ginza, Tokyo.

A record 13 marketing partners will support The NBA Japan Games 2022 Presented by Rakuten & Nissan.

Warriors, Wizards to meet on Sept. 30, Oct. 2 in NBA Japan Games 2022

ATLANTA &ndash; The Atlanta Hawks have signed guard Jarrett Culver to a two-way contract, the team announced Monday. Per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.&nbsp;
Culver comes to Atlanta from the Memphis Grizzlies where he appeared in 37 games this past season, averaging 3.5 points and 1.3 rebounds in 9.1 minutes. The 6-6 guard saw action in three postseason games with the Grizzlies, tallying 2.3 points and 2.3 rebounds in 7.3 minutes.
He also saw action in four games (all starts) with the Memphis Hustle, NBA G League affiliate of the Grizzlies, notching 18.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.3 blocks in 33.1 minutes.
Drafted by the Phoenix Suns with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, Culver&rsquo;s draft rights were traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves on July 6, 2019. Over his three-year career, the Lubbock, Texas native has suited up for the Timberwolves (2019-21) and Grizzlies (2021-22), appearing in 134 games (42 starts), averaging 6.6 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 17.5 minutes (.401 FG%).
Culver played collegiately at Texas Tech for two seasons (2017-19), seeing action in 75 games (58 starts), registering 14.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.3 steals in 29.5 minutes (.459 FG%, .341 3FG%, .687 FT%).
The 2019 Big 12 Player of the Year led the Red Raiders to the 2019 NCAA Championship Game as a sophomore, their first-ever Final Four and championship game appearance, en route to being named to the Final Four All-Tournament Team.
In his freshman season, Culver guided Texas Tech to its first Elite Eight in program history. Culver, who finished his Red Raider career with 1,119 total points, became the first player in Texas Tech history to pour in at least 1,000 points as a freshman-sophomore.

Culver comes to Atlanta from Memphis, where he appeared in 37 games last year, including three playoff contests.

Atlanta Hawks sign Jarrett Culver to two-way contract

NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA today issued the following statement:
Following the publication of a November 4, 2021, ESPN.com article regarding statements and conduct of Robert Sarver, Managing Partner of the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA&rsquo;s Phoenix Mercury, and issues relating to the teams&rsquo; workplace, the NBA commissioned an independent investigation by the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen &amp; Katz. &nbsp;David Anders and Sarah Eddy, partners at the firm, led the investigation.
The report of the independent investigation, which was issued publicly today, was based on information gathered from interviews with 320 individuals, including current and former employees who worked for the teams during Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s 18-year tenure as Managing Partner, Mr. Sarver, and other relevant individuals; and from the evaluation of more than 80,000 documents and other materials, including emails, text messages and videos. &nbsp;Mr. Sarver and the Suns/Mercury organization cooperated fully with the investigative process.
&nbsp;As stated in the report, the independent investigation found that Mr. Sarver &ldquo;engaged in conduct that clearly violated common workplace standards, as reflected in team and League rules and policies. &nbsp;This conduct included the use of racially insensitive language; unequal treatment of female employees; sex-related statements and conduct; and harsh treatment of employees that on occasion constituted bullying.&rdquo;
Among the key findings:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver, on at least five occasions during his tenure with the Suns/Mercury organization, repeated the N-word when recounting the statements of others.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in instances of inequitable conduct toward female employees, made many sex-related comments in the workplace, made inappropriate comments about the physical appearance of female employees and other women, and on several occasions engaged in inappropriate physical conduct toward male employees.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in demeaning and harsh treatment of employees, including by yelling and cursing at them.</li>
</ul>
As reflected in the report, Mr. Sarver informed the investigators of his personal and professional efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, including hiring practices at the Suns/Mercury organization and contributions to social and racial justice causes. &nbsp;The investigation made no finding that Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct was motivated by racial or gender-based animus.
The independent investigation also substantiated instances of workplace misconduct engaged in by Suns employees that were not directly related to Mr. Sarver and a lack of proper organizational policies and controls. &nbsp;Among other things, the investigation found instances of racial insensitivity, mistreatment of female employees, inappropriate commentary related to sex or sexual orientation, and disrespectful communications. &nbsp;The investigation also concluded that the Suns&rsquo; Human Resources function was historically ineffective and not a trusted resource for employees who were subjected to acts of improper workplace conduct.
As noted in the report, most of the Suns employees who engaged in these acts of misconduct over the 18-year period of investigation are no longer employed by the organization. &nbsp;In addition, in July 2021, the organization hired a new head of Human Resources who, along with other executives, has since implemented a series of positive workplace changes. &nbsp;These include an updated respect in the workplace policy, the creation of a confidential hotline for reports of misconduct, an investigation response team for conducting internal investigations, additional workplace training on key policies, and a new parental leave policy.
Based on the findings of the independent investigation, including those related to Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies, the NBA today has taken the following actions:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is suspended from the Suns/Mercury organization for a period of one year, during which time he will not:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<ul>
<li>Be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility, including any office, arena, or practice facility.</li>
<li>Attend or participate in any NBA or WNBA event or activity, including games, practices, or business partner activity.</li>
<li>Represent the Suns or Mercury in any public or private capacity.</li>
<li>Have any involvement with the business or basketball operations of the Suns or Mercury.</li>
<li>Have any involvement in the business, governance, or activities of either the NBA or WNBA, including attending or participating in meetings of either league&rsquo;s Board (and their associated Board committees).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver must, during his suspension, complete a training program focused on respect and appropriate conduct in the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is fined $10 million, the maximum permitted by the NBA Constitution &amp; By-Laws.&nbsp; The NBA will donate these funds to organizations that are committed to addressing race and gender-based issues in and outside the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Additionally, the Suns/Mercury organization must fulfill a series of requirements for workplace improvements set forth and monitored by the NBA.&nbsp; These requirements, among other things, include:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<ul>
<li>Retaining an outside firm to evaluate and make recommendations with respect to workplace training programs, policies and procedures, and hiring and compensation practices &mdash; with a focus on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.</li>
<li>Conducting regular and anonymous workplace culture surveys and responding to survey results with specific action plans.</li>
<li>Immediately reporting to the league any instances or allegations of significant misconduct by any employee.</li>
<li>For a period of three years, providing the league with regular reports related to steps taken by the organization to address these requirements.</li>
<li>Following league direction for remediation/improvement of workplace issues if/as they arise.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;The statements and conduct described in the findings of the independent investigation are troubling and disappointing,&rdquo; said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. &nbsp;&ldquo;We believe the outcome is the right one, taking into account all the facts, circumstances and context brought to light by the comprehensive investigation of this 18-year period and our commitment to upholding proper standards in NBA workplaces.
&ldquo;I am hopeful that the NBA community will use this opportunity to reflect on what this great game means to people everywhere and the values of equality, respect and inclusion that it strives to represent. &nbsp;Regardless of position, power or intent, we all need to recognize the corrosive and hurtful impact of racially insensitive and demeaning language and behavior. &nbsp;On behalf of the entire NBA, I apologize to all of those impacted by the misconduct outlined in the investigators&rsquo; report. &nbsp;We must do better.&rdquo;
The report of the independent investigation is available here: <a href="https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/</a>.

NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA today issued the following statement:
Following the publication of a November 4, 2021, ESPN.com article regarding statements and conduct of Robert Sarver, Managing Partner of the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA&rsquo;s Phoenix Mercury, and issues relating to the teams&rsquo; workplace, the NBA commissioned an independent investigation by the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen &amp; Katz. &nbsp;David Anders and Sarah Eddy, partners at the firm, led the investigation.
The report of the independent investigation, which was issued publicly today, was based on information gathered from interviews with 320 individuals, including current and former employees who worked for the teams during Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s 18-year tenure as Managing Partner, Mr. Sarver, and other relevant individuals; and from the evaluation of more than 80,000 documents and other materials, including emails, text messages and videos. &nbsp;Mr. Sarver and the Suns/Mercury organization cooperated fully with the investigative process.
As stated in the report, the independent investigation found that Mr. Sarver &ldquo;engaged in conduct that clearly violated common workplace standards, as reflected in team and League rules and policies. &nbsp;This conduct included the use of racially insensitive language; unequal treatment of female employees; sex-related statements and conduct; and harsh treatment of employees that on occasion constituted bullying.&rdquo;
Among the key findings:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver, on at least five occasions during his tenure with the Suns/Mercury organization, repeated the N-word when recounting the statements of others.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in instances of inequitable conduct toward female employees, made many sex-related comments in the workplace, made inappropriate comments about the physical appearance of female employees and other women, and on several occasions engaged in inappropriate physical conduct toward male employees.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in demeaning and harsh treatment of employees, including by yelling and cursing at them.</li>
</ul>
As reflected in the report, Mr. Sarver informed the investigators of his personal and professional efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, including hiring practices at the Suns/Mercury organization and contributions to social and racial justice causes. &nbsp;The investigation made no finding that Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct was motivated by racial or gender-based animus.
The independent investigation also substantiated instances of workplace misconduct engaged in by Suns employees that were not directly related to Mr. Sarver and a lack of proper organizational policies and controls. &nbsp;Among other things, the investigation found instances of racial insensitivity, mistreatment of female employees, inappropriate commentary related to sex or sexual orientation, and disrespectful communications. &nbsp;The investigation also concluded that the Suns&rsquo; Human Resources function was historically ineffective and not a trusted resource for employees who were subjected to acts of improper workplace conduct.
As noted in the report, most of the Suns employees who engaged in these acts of misconduct over the 18-year period of investigation are no longer employed by the organization. &nbsp;In addition, in July 2021, the organization hired a new head of Human Resources who, along with other executives, has since implemented a series of positive workplace changes. &nbsp;These include an updated respect in the workplace policy, the creation of a confidential hotline for reports of misconduct, an investigation response team for conducting internal investigations, additional workplace training on key policies, and a new parental leave policy.
Based on the findings of the independent investigation, including those related to Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies, the NBA today has taken the following actions:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is suspended from the Suns/Mercury organization for a period of one year, during which time he will not:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<ul>
<li>Be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility, including any office, arena, or practice facility.</li>
<li>Attend or participate in any NBA or WNBA event or activity, including games, practices, or business partner activity.</li>
<li>Represent the Suns or Mercury in any public or private capacity.</li>
<li>Have any involvement with the business or basketball operations of the Suns or Mercury.</li>
<li>Have any involvement in the business, governance, or activities of either the NBA or WNBA, including attending or participating in meetings of either league&rsquo;s Board (and their associated Board committees).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver must, during his suspension, complete a training program focused on respect and appropriate conduct in the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is fined $10 million, the maximum permitted by the NBA Constitution &amp; By-Laws.&nbsp; The NBA will donate these funds to organizations that are committed to addressing race and gender-based issues in and outside the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Additionally, the Suns/Mercury organization must fulfill a series of requirements for workplace improvements set forth and monitored by the NBA.&nbsp; These requirements, among other things, include:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<ul>
<li>Retaining an outside firm to evaluate and make recommendations with respect to workplace training programs, policies and procedures, and hiring and compensation practices &mdash; with a focus on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.</li>
<li>Conducting regular and anonymous workplace culture surveys and responding to survey results with specific action plans.</li>
<li>Immediately reporting to the league any instances or allegations of significant misconduct by any employee.</li>
<li>For a period of three years, providing the league with regular reports related to steps taken by the organization to address these requirements.</li>
<li>Following league direction for remediation/improvement of workplace issues if/as they arise.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;The statements and conduct described in the findings of the independent investigation are troubling and disappointing,&rdquo; said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. &nbsp;&ldquo;We believe the outcome is the right one, taking into account all the facts, circumstances and context brought to light by the comprehensive investigation of this 18-year period and our commitment to upholding proper standards in NBA workplaces.
&ldquo;I am hopeful that the NBA community will use this opportunity to reflect on what this great game means to people everywhere and the values of equality, respect and inclusion that it strives to represent. &nbsp;Regardless of position, power or intent, we all need to recognize the corrosive and hurtful impact of racially insensitive and demeaning language and behavior. &nbsp;On behalf of the entire NBA, I apologize to all of those impacted by the misconduct outlined in the investigators&rsquo; report. &nbsp;We must do better.&rdquo;
The report of the independent investigation is available here: <a href="https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/</a>.

NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA today issued the following statement:
Following the publication of a November 4, 2021, ESPN.com article regarding statements and conduct of Robert Sarver, Managing Partner of the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA&rsquo;s Phoenix Mercury, and issues relating to the teams&rsquo; workplace, the NBA commissioned an independent investigation by the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen &amp; Katz. &nbsp;David Anders and Sarah Eddy, partners at the firm, led the investigation.
The report of the independent investigation, which was issued publicly today, was based on information gathered from interviews with 320 individuals, including current and former employees who worked for the teams during Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s 18-year tenure as Managing Partner, Mr. Sarver, and other relevant individuals; and from the evaluation of more than 80,000 documents and other materials, including emails, text messages and videos. &nbsp;Mr. Sarver and the Suns/Mercury organization cooperated fully with the investigative process.
As stated in the report, the independent investigation found that Mr. Sarver &ldquo;engaged in conduct that clearly violated common workplace standards, as reflected in team and League rules and policies. &nbsp;This conduct included the use of racially insensitive language; unequal treatment of female employees; sex-related statements and conduct; and harsh treatment of employees that on occasion constituted bullying.&rdquo;
Among the key findings:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver, on at least five occasions during his tenure with the Suns/Mercury organization, repeated the N-word when recounting the statements of others.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in instances of inequitable conduct toward female employees, made many sex-related comments in the workplace, made inappropriate comments about the physical appearance of female employees and other women, and on several occasions engaged in inappropriate physical conduct toward male employees.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in demeaning and harsh treatment of employees, including by yelling and cursing at them.</li>
</ul>
As reflected in the report, Mr. Sarver informed the investigators of his personal and professional efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, including hiring practices at the Suns/Mercury organization and contributions to social and racial justice causes. &nbsp;The investigation made no finding that Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct was motivated by racial or gender-based animus.
The independent investigation also substantiated instances of workplace misconduct engaged in by Suns employees that were not directly related to Mr. Sarver and a lack of proper organizational policies and controls. &nbsp;Among other things, the investigation found instances of racial insensitivity, mistreatment of female employees, inappropriate commentary related to sex or sexual orientation, and disrespectful communications. &nbsp;The investigation also concluded that the Suns&rsquo; Human Resources function was historically ineffective and not a trusted resource for employees who were subjected to acts of improper workplace conduct.
As noted in the report, most of the Suns employees who engaged in these acts of misconduct over the 18-year period of investigation are no longer employed by the organization. &nbsp;In addition, in July 2021, the organization hired a new head of Human Resources who, along with other executives, has since implemented a series of positive workplace changes. &nbsp;These include an updated respect in the workplace policy, the creation of a confidential hotline for reports of misconduct, an investigation response team for conducting internal investigations, additional workplace training on key policies, and a new parental leave policy.
Based on the findings of the independent investigation, including those related to Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies, the NBA today has taken the following actions:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is suspended from the Suns/Mercury organization for a period of one year, during which time he will not:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<ul>
<li>Be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility, including any office, arena, or practice facility.</li>
<li>Attend or participate in any NBA or WNBA event or activity, including games, practices, or business partner activity.</li>
<li>Represent the Suns or Mercury in any public or private capacity.</li>
<li>Have any involvement with the business or basketball operations of the Suns or Mercury.</li>
<li>Have any involvement in the business, governance, or activities of either the NBA or WNBA, including attending or participating in meetings of either league&rsquo;s Board (and their associated Board committees).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver must, during his suspension, complete a training program focused on respect and appropriate conduct in the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is fined $10 million, the maximum permitted by the NBA Constitution &amp; By-Laws.&nbsp; The NBA will donate these funds to organizations that are committed to addressing race and gender-based issues in and outside the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Additionally, the Suns/Mercury organization must fulfill a series of requirements for workplace improvements set forth and monitored by the NBA.&nbsp; These requirements, among other things, include:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<ul>
<li>Retaining an outside firm to evaluate and make recommendations with respect to workplace training programs, policies and procedures, and hiring and compensation practices &mdash; with a focus on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.</li>
<li>Conducting regular and anonymous workplace culture surveys and responding to survey results with specific action plans.</li>
<li>Immediately reporting to the league any instances or allegations of significant misconduct by any employee.</li>
<li>For a period of three years, providing the league with regular reports related to steps taken by the organization to address these requirements.</li>
<li>Following league direction for remediation/improvement of workplace issues if/as they arise.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;The statements and conduct described in the findings of the independent investigation are troubling and disappointing,&rdquo; said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. &nbsp;&ldquo;We believe the outcome is the right one, taking into account all the facts, circumstances and context brought to light by the comprehensive investigation of this 18-year period and our commitment to upholding proper standards in NBA workplaces.
&ldquo;I am hopeful that the NBA community will use this opportunity to reflect on what this great game means to people everywhere and the values of equality, respect and inclusion that it strives to represent. &nbsp;Regardless of position, power or intent, we all need to recognize the corrosive and hurtful impact of racially insensitive and demeaning language and behavior. &nbsp;On behalf of the entire NBA, I apologize to all of those impacted by the misconduct outlined in the investigators&rsquo; report. &nbsp;We must do better.&rdquo;
The report of the independent investigation is available here: <a href="https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/</a>.

NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA today issued the following statement:
Following the publication of a November 4, 2021, ESPN.com article regarding statements and conduct of Robert Sarver, Managing Partner of the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA&rsquo;s Phoenix Mercury, and issues relating to the teams&rsquo; workplace, the NBA commissioned an independent investigation by the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen &amp; Katz. &nbsp;David Anders and Sarah Eddy, partners at the firm, led the investigation.
The report of the independent investigation, which was issued publicly today, was based on information gathered from interviews with 320 individuals, including current and former employees who worked for the teams during Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s 18-year tenure as Managing Partner, Mr. Sarver, and other relevant individuals; and from the evaluation of more than 80,000 documents and other materials, including emails, text messages and videos. &nbsp;Mr. Sarver and the Suns/Mercury organization cooperated fully with the investigative process.
As stated in the report, the independent investigation found that Mr. Sarver &ldquo;engaged in conduct that clearly violated common workplace standards, as reflected in team and League rules and policies. &nbsp;This conduct included the use of racially insensitive language; unequal treatment of female employees; sex-related statements and conduct; and harsh treatment of employees that on occasion constituted bullying.&rdquo;
Among the key findings:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver, on at least five occasions during his tenure with the Suns/Mercury organization, repeated the N-word when recounting the statements of others.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in instances of inequitable conduct toward female employees, made many sex-related comments in the workplace, made inappropriate comments about the physical appearance of female employees and other women, and on several occasions engaged in inappropriate physical conduct toward male employees.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in demeaning and harsh treatment of employees, including by yelling and cursing at them.</li>
</ul>
As reflected in the report, Mr. Sarver informed the investigators of his personal and professional efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, including hiring practices at the Suns/Mercury organization and contributions to social and racial justice causes. &nbsp;The investigation made no finding that Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct was motivated by racial or gender-based animus.
The independent investigation also substantiated instances of workplace misconduct engaged in by Suns employees that were not directly related to Mr. Sarver and a lack of proper organizational policies and controls. &nbsp;Among other things, the investigation found instances of racial insensitivity, mistreatment of female employees, inappropriate commentary related to sex or sexual orientation, and disrespectful communications. &nbsp;The investigation also concluded that the Suns&rsquo; Human Resources function was historically ineffective and not a trusted resource for employees who were subjected to acts of improper workplace conduct.
As noted in the report, most of the Suns employees who engaged in these acts of misconduct over the 18-year period of investigation are no longer employed by the organization. &nbsp;In addition, in July 2021, the organization hired a new head of Human Resources who, along with other executives, has since implemented a series of positive workplace changes. &nbsp;These include an updated respect in the workplace policy, the creation of a confidential hotline for reports of misconduct, an investigation response team for conducting internal investigations, additional workplace training on key policies, and a new parental leave policy.
Based on the findings of the independent investigation, including those related to Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies, the NBA today has taken the following actions:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is suspended from the Suns/Mercury organization for a period of one year, during which time he will not:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
<li>Be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility, including any office, arena, or practice facility.</li>
<li>Attend or participate in any NBA or WNBA event or activity, including games, practices, or business partner activity.</li>
<li>Represent the Suns or Mercury in any public or private capacity.</li>
<li>Have any involvement with the business or basketball operations of the Suns or Mercury.</li>
<li>Have any involvement in the business, governance, or activities of either the NBA or WNBA, including attending or participating in meetings of either league&rsquo;s Board (and their associated Board committees).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver must, during his suspension, complete a training program focused on respect and appropriate conduct in the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is fined $10 million, the maximum permitted by the NBA Constitution &amp; By-Laws.&nbsp; The NBA will donate these funds to organizations that are committed to addressing race and gender-based issues in and outside the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Additionally, the Suns/Mercury organization must fulfill a series of requirements for workplace improvements set forth and monitored by the NBA.&nbsp; These requirements, among other things, include:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<ul>
<li>Retaining an outside firm to evaluate and make recommendations with respect to workplace training programs, policies and procedures, and hiring and compensation practices &mdash; with a focus on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.</li>
<li>Conducting regular and anonymous workplace culture surveys and responding to survey results with specific action plans.</li>
<li>Immediately reporting to the league any instances or allegations of significant misconduct by any employee.</li>
<li>For a period of three years, providing the league with regular reports related to steps taken by the organization to address these requirements.</li>
<li>Following league direction for remediation/improvement of workplace issues if/as they arise.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;The statements and conduct described in the findings of the independent investigation are troubling and disappointing,&rdquo; said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. &nbsp;&ldquo;We believe the outcome is the right one, taking into account all the facts, circumstances and context brought to light by the comprehensive investigation of this 18-year period and our commitment to upholding proper standards in NBA workplaces.
&ldquo;I am hopeful that the NBA community will use this opportunity to reflect on what this great game means to people everywhere and the values of equality, respect and inclusion that it strives to represent. &nbsp;Regardless of position, power or intent, we all need to recognize the corrosive and hurtful impact of racially insensitive and demeaning language and behavior. &nbsp;On behalf of the entire NBA, I apologize to all of those impacted by the misconduct outlined in the investigators&rsquo; report. &nbsp;We must do better.&rdquo;
The report of the independent investigation is available here: <a href="https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/</a>.

NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA today issued the following statement:
Following the publication of a November 4, 2021, ESPN.com article regarding statements and conduct of Robert Sarver, Managing Partner of the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA&rsquo;s Phoenix Mercury, and issues relating to the teams&rsquo; workplace, the NBA commissioned an independent investigation by the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen &amp; Katz. &nbsp;David Anders and Sarah Eddy, partners at the firm, led the investigation.
The report of the independent investigation, which was issued publicly today, was based on information gathered from interviews with 320 individuals, including current and former employees who worked for the teams during Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s 18-year tenure as Managing Partner, Mr. Sarver, and other relevant individuals; and from the evaluation of more than 80,000 documents and other materials, including emails, text messages and videos. &nbsp;Mr. Sarver and the Suns/Mercury organization cooperated fully with the investigative process.
As stated in the report, the independent investigation found that Mr. Sarver &ldquo;engaged in conduct that clearly violated common workplace standards, as reflected in team and League rules and policies. &nbsp;This conduct included the use of racially insensitive language; unequal treatment of female employees; sex-related statements and conduct; and harsh treatment of employees that on occasion constituted bullying.&rdquo;
Among the key findings:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver, on at least five occasions during his tenure with the Suns/Mercury organization, repeated the N-word when recounting the statements of others.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in instances of inequitable conduct toward female employees, made many sex-related comments in the workplace, made inappropriate comments about the physical appearance of female employees and other women, and on several occasions engaged in inappropriate physical conduct toward male employees.</li>
<li>Mr. Sarver engaged in demeaning and harsh treatment of employees, including by yelling and cursing at them.</li>
</ul>
As reflected in the report, Mr. Sarver informed the investigators of his personal and professional efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, including hiring practices at the Suns/Mercury organization and contributions to social and racial justice causes. &nbsp;The investigation made no finding that Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct was motivated by racial or gender-based animus.
The independent investigation also substantiated instances of workplace misconduct engaged in by Suns employees that were not directly related to Mr. Sarver and a lack of proper organizational policies and controls. &nbsp;Among other things, the investigation found instances of racial insensitivity, mistreatment of female employees, inappropriate commentary related to sex or sexual orientation, and disrespectful communications. &nbsp;The investigation also concluded that the Suns&rsquo; Human Resources function was historically ineffective and not a trusted resource for employees who were subjected to acts of improper workplace conduct.
As noted in the report, most of the Suns employees who engaged in these acts of misconduct over the 18-year period of investigation are no longer employed by the organization. &nbsp;In addition, in July 2021, the organization hired a new head of Human Resources who, along with other executives, has since implemented a series of positive workplace changes. &nbsp;These include an updated respect in the workplace policy, the creation of a confidential hotline for reports of misconduct, an investigation response team for conducting internal investigations, additional workplace training on key policies, and a new parental leave policy.
Based on the findings of the independent investigation, including those related to Mr. Sarver&rsquo;s workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies, the NBA today has taken the following actions:
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is suspended from the Suns/Mercury organization for a period of one year, during which time he will not:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
<li>Be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility, including any office, arena, or practice facility.</li>
<li>Attend or participate in any NBA or WNBA event or activity, including games, practices, or business partner activity.</li>
<li>Represent the Suns or Mercury in any public or private capacity.</li>
<li>Have any involvement with the business or basketball operations of the Suns or Mercury.</li>
<li>Have any involvement in the business, governance, or activities of either the NBA or WNBA, including attending or participating in meetings of either league&rsquo;s Board (and their associated Board committees).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver must, during his suspension, complete a training program focused on respect and appropriate conduct in the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mr. Sarver is fined $10 million, the maximum permitted by the NBA Constitution &amp; By-Laws.&nbsp; The NBA will donate these funds to organizations that are committed to addressing race and gender-based issues in and outside the workplace.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Additionally, the Suns/Mercury organization must fulfill a series of requirements for workplace improvements set forth and monitored by the NBA.&nbsp; These requirements, among other things, include:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
<li>Retaining an outside firm to evaluate and make recommendations with respect to workplace training programs, policies and procedures, and hiring and compensation practices &mdash; with a focus on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.</li>
<li>Conducting regular and anonymous workplace culture surveys and responding to survey results with specific action plans.</li>
<li>Immediately reporting to the league any instances or allegations of significant misconduct by any employee.</li>
<li>For a period of three years, providing the league with regular reports related to steps taken by the organization to address these requirements.</li>
<li>Following league direction for remediation/improvement of workplace issues if/as they arise.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;The statements and conduct described in the findings of the independent investigation are troubling and disappointing,&rdquo; said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. &nbsp;&ldquo;We believe the outcome is the right one, taking into account all the facts, circumstances and context brought to light by the comprehensive investigation of this 18-year period and our commitment to upholding proper standards in NBA workplaces.
&ldquo;I am hopeful that the NBA community will use this opportunity to reflect on what this great game means to people everywhere and the values of equality, respect and inclusion that it strives to represent. &nbsp;Regardless of position, power or intent, we all need to recognize the corrosive and hurtful impact of racially insensitive and demeaning language and behavior. &nbsp;On behalf of the entire NBA, I apologize to all of those impacted by the misconduct outlined in the investigators&rsquo; report. &nbsp;We must do better.&rdquo;
The report of the independent investigation is available here: <a href="https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.wlrk.com/phoenix-suns-report/</a>.

The NBA has suspended Phoenix owner Robert Sarver for a year after an investigation into his unacceptable sexist/racist behavior.

NBA suspends Robert Sarver one year from Suns after investigation

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;announced today (September 6) that&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Providence College Men's Basketball Coach&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;said.&nbsp; "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;announced today (September 6) that&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Providence College Men's Basketball Coach&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;said.&nbsp; "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;announced today (September 6) that&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Providence College Men's Basketball Coach&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;said.&nbsp; "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;announced today (September 6) that&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Providence College Men's Basketball Coach&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;said.&nbsp; "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;announced today (September 6) that&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Providence College Men's Basketball Coach&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;said.&nbsp; "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo announced today that&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Cooley&nbsp;said.&nbsp; "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo announced today that&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Cooley said. "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "<a href="https://friars.com/coaches.aspx?rc=597" rel="smarttag" rev="597">Ed Cooley</a>&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo announced today that&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Cooley said. "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "Ed Cooley&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;<a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Steve Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo announced today that&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Cooley said. "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "Ed Cooley&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director <a href="https://friars.com/staff.aspx?staff=195" rel="smarttag" rev="195">Napolillo</a>&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PROVIDENCE, R.I.&nbsp;- Providence College President Reverend Kenneth Sicard, O.P. and Vice President/Athletics Director&nbsp;Steve Napolillo announced today that&nbsp;Ed Cooley&nbsp;has agreed to a multi-year contract extension to remain head coach of the men's basketball program. &nbsp; "Providence is my home and Providence is where I want to be," Cooley said. "Not many coaches are able to live the dream of coaching in their hometown and I feel blessed every day that I have this opportunity.&nbsp; I have had the good fortune of working for great administrators and coaching some of the best players in the country. I believe in the leadership at Providence College and with that I want to thank Fr. Sicard and&nbsp;Steve Napolillo&nbsp;for allowing me to continue my career in Friartown.&nbsp; The support that our donors and fans have shown toward our program has grown to new heights over the last 11 years.&nbsp; We had a special season in 2022, and I am excited as we look ahead to this season and the opportunity to compete for another BIG EAST title." &nbsp; Cooley, who earned Naismith Coach of the Year honors,&nbsp;guided the Friars to a 27-6 mark in 2022.&nbsp; Cooley also was named National Coach of the Year by The Sporting News and The Field of 68.&nbsp; His team, which earned the highest seed ever for the Friars (No. 4 seed), advanced to NCAA Sweet 16 where the squad was defeated by eventual national champion Kansas, 66-61, on March 25.&nbsp; It marked the sixth time overall and the first time in 25 years (1997) that the Friars reached the Sweet 16.&nbsp; The Friars' 27 victories are tied for the second highest single-season win total in the history of the program.&nbsp; The 27 wins also marked the sixth time in his 11 seasons at Providence that his team earned 20 or more victories.&nbsp; Cooley also led the Friars to a 16-1 record at home, which is the squad's best mark since 1973-74 (16-0).&nbsp; In March, Cooley was named BIG EAST Coach of the Year.&nbsp; He became the first Friar coach to earn that honor.&nbsp; In BIG EAST league play, the Friars set a team record for wins after registering a 14-3 mark and capturing the program's first BIG EAST Regular Season title.&nbsp; The Friars, who finished the regular season in first place, were picked to finish seventh in the annual BIG EAST Preseason Coaches' Poll which was released in October.&nbsp; Providence did not have a player selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team. Cooley became just the seventh coach, and first since 2012, to earn BIG EAST Coach of the Year honors without having a player earn All-BIG EAST First Team accolades.&nbsp; The Friars also won a team-record eight consecutive BIG EAST games this season. &nbsp; "Ed Cooley&nbsp;is such an inspirational member of our College community," Providence College President Fr. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., said. "There is widespread agreement that he is an excellent basketball coach as underscored by his recent recognition as the Naismith Coach of the Year.&nbsp; But he is so much more than that to our Friar family. Ed is fully engaged in the depth and breadth of the Providence College mission and the daily life of the College. We are so very pleased with and grateful for his continued commitment to PC, and this contract extension is, in turn, our commitment to him that we will continue to support him and the men's basketball program to the highest degree." &nbsp; "In all great relationships there is a commitment to support each other at the highest level," Providence College Vice President/Athletics Director Napolillo&nbsp;said. &nbsp;"This contract extension is an example of the commitment to Ed, the program, and his family as we strive to reach our goal of winning BIG EAST and national championships together. Ed has shown he is the perfect fit as a coach and an ambassador for Providence College. He and his wife, Nurys, and his family are part of the Friar community.&nbsp; I look forward to working with Coach Cooley for many years to come." Cooley, who is entering his 12th season at Providence, has posted a 221-141 mark during his time with the Friars.&nbsp; He ranks second all-time in wins at Providence.&nbsp; Cooley also coached for five seasons at Fairfield (2006-2011) and registered a 92-69 mark.&nbsp; In 16 seasons as a head coach, he has posted a 313-210 record, which includes six NCAA Tournament appearances and two NIT selections at Providence.&nbsp; His 2014 Friar squad captured the BIG EAST Tournament title. Prior to becoming the head coach at Fairfield, Cooley spent nine seasons at Boston College as an assistant coach under Al Skinner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ed Cooley agrees to a multi-year contract extension with Providence.

Providence head coach Ed Cooley agrees to multi-year extension

NEW YORK &ndash; The National Basketball Association (NBA), National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) and Sorare today announced a multiyear partnership that makes Sorare the Official NFT Fantasy Partner of the NBA. &nbsp;Sorare will launch the first officially licensed, free-to-play digital collectible-based fantasy basketball game, which will be released this fall for the NBA&rsquo;s 2022-23 season.
The game will provide fans a new opportunity to interact with the league and compete through a unique fantasy gaming experience that offers users the ability to create a lineup of NFT-based digital collectibles representing their favorite players and teams to earn points based on the real-life performance of NBA players. &nbsp;As part of the partnership, Sorare will have the rights to utilize official NBA league and team logos across its products.
&ldquo;Our partnership with Sorare will give NBA fans an entirely new way to engage with our teams and players,&rdquo; said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. &nbsp;&ldquo;With Sorare&rsquo;s emerging NFT fantasy platform, we see significant opportunities to broaden our community of fans and grow NBA basketball around the world.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world and we are excited to bring fans even closer to their favorite teams and players through Sorare: NBA,&rdquo; said Nicholas Julia, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Sorare. &ldquo;The NBA has been at the forefront of digital experiences and collectibles and our game gives basketball fans the ultimate sports entertainment experience, where they can play like a general manager, own their game, and foster real-world connections.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Sorare has built an innovative gaming experience that creates a whole new way for fans worldwide to interact with and learn more about our players,&rdquo; said Tamika Tremaglio, NBPA Executive Director. &ldquo;We are very excited about this partnership and the effect Sorare will have on the growth of the players and the game globally.&rdquo;
The new gameplay experience builds upon Sorare&rsquo;s two million registered users across 185 countries, including markets across Europe and Asia where the company is seeing rapid growth in its soccer game. &nbsp;The partnership marks Sorare&rsquo;s third with a U.S. sports league, cementing the company&rsquo;s expansion in the U.S.
The Sorare: NBA free-to-play fantasy game leveraging collectibles backed by non-fungible technology will launch this fall. &nbsp;To sign up for the waiting list, visit sorare.com/NBA.

Sorare will launch the first officially licensed, free-to-play digital collectible-based fantasy basketball game in 2022-23.

NBA, NBPA team with Sorare to launch free-to-play fantasy basketball game

PRAGUE (Czech Republic) - In line with all the other superheroes in this FIBA EuroBasket, Deni Avdija has connected back-to-back game winning performances. Israel are undefeated, the Netherlands drop to 0-2 in Group D.
The Oranje were in front for most of the game, but once Yam Madar caught fire, the path was carved for Deni Avdija to take over in the clutch minutes. He did it, not missing a beat, earning Israel a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Netherlands-Israel#tab=boxscore">74-67</a> win.
Turning point:&nbsp;With the Netherlands leading 62-61, the stage was set for another close finish. Coach Guy Goodes did the right thing, gave all authorities to his biggest star in Avdija. He&nbsp; delivered straight away, and-one floater, then a late shot clock three-pointer, a personal 6-0 run that made it a two-possession game with two minutes to play. His best friend, Madar, was there to join the fun by hitting a deep three-pointer to beat the shot- clock and&nbsp; giving Israel a six-point lead in the final minute. More than enough for another win.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Avdija wants the ball, wants the defensive responsibility ranging from Lauri Markkanen to Worthy de Jong, and when his country needed him most, he delivered to send Israel to 2-0. Avdija had 21 points on the night, Yam Madar was also impressive with 14, done on 4-of-8 shooting from three-point range.
Stats don't lie:&nbsp;Israel grabbed 13 offensive rebounds, compared to 4 by the Netherlands, allowing them to open up a 12-2 edge in second chance points.
Bottom line:&nbsp;Israel are enjoying the support of their fans in Prague, and they join Serbia at the top of the group with a 2-0 record.
The Netherlands got 12 points from Worthy de Jong, but the rebounding killed their chance of grabbing a famous first win in Czech Republic.
They said:
"We didn't come with the right energy and the mindset. I'm happy that we showed character and stuck together. We pulled out a win, which is important for us. We now have a day to recover and move on from there."&nbsp;- Tamir Blatt, Israel
"We knew that the Netherlands were a team that does a lot of driving and shooting from inside, but we didn't stop that. Second half, it was a totally different game. They scored 27 points, we started being aggressive on defense, we scored 42, and that was the difference between those two halfs. This is the life of the tournament, every game is different, but we are happy to be here with two wins."&nbsp;- Israel coach Guy Goodes
"This is a tough loss. We had the game under control, the first 20 minutes everything looked great, the coaching staff prepared us for everything. In the end we gave up two many offensive rebounds and second chance points, and they made some big plays. Deni Avdija is a special player, he helped them a lot. You have to stop players like that as a team. We did that for 25 minutes, but in the end we let it go."&nbsp;- Mohamed Kherrazi, Netherlands
"We struggled a little bit against zone and matchup zone. I'm sorry, I have to help my guys better. It's my fault, because the guys put the energy and effort on the floor, it's my job to try and give them better help. It's one tough loss, the first to fault is me."&nbsp;- Netherlands coach Maurizio Buscaglia&nbsp;

&nbsp;
PRAGUE (Czech Republic) - In line with all the other superheroes in this FIBA EuroBasket, Deni Avdija has connected back-to-back game winning performances. Israel are undefeated, the Netherlands drop to 0-2 in Group D.
The Oranje were in front for most of the game, but once Yam Madar caught fire, the path was carved for Deni Avdija to take over in the clutch minutes. He did it, not missing a beat, earning Israel a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Netherlands-Israel#tab=boxscore">74-67</a> win.
Turning point:&nbsp;With the Netherlands leading 62-61, the stage was set for another close finish. Coach Guy Goodes did the right thing, gave all authorities to his biggest star in Avdija. He&nbsp; delivered straight away, and-one floater, then a late shot clock three-pointer, a personal 6-0 run that made it a two-possession game with two minutes to play. His best friend, Madar, was there to join the fun by hitting a deep three-pointer to beat the shot- clock and&nbsp; giving Israel a six-point lead in the final minute. More than enough for another win.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Avdija wants the ball, wants the defensive responsibility ranging from Lauri Markkanen to Worthy de Jong, and when his country needed him most, he delivered to send Israel to 2-0. Avdija had 21 points on the night, Yam Madar was also impressive with 14, done on 4-of-8 shooting from three-point range.
Stats don't lie:&nbsp;Israel grabbed 13 offensive rebounds, compared to 4 by the Netherlands, allowing them to open up a 12-2 edge in second chance points.
Bottom line:&nbsp;Israel are enjoying the support of their fans in Prague, and they join Serbia at the top of the group with a 2-0 record.
The Netherlands got 12 points from Worthy de Jong, but the rebounding killed their chance of grabbing a famous first win in Czech Republic.
They said:
"We didn't come with the right energy and the mindset. I'm happy that we showed character and stuck together. We pulled out a win, which is important for us. We now have a day to recover and move on from there."&nbsp;- Tamir Blatt, Israel
"We knew that the Netherlands were a team that does a lot of driving and shooting from inside, but we didn't stop that. Second half, it was a totally different game. They scored 27 points, we started being aggressive on defense, we scored 42, and that was the difference between those two halfs. This is the life of the tournament, every game is different, but we are happy to be here with two wins."&nbsp;- Israel coach Guy Goodes
"This is a tough loss. We had the game under control, the first 20 minutes everything looked great, the coaching staff prepared us for everything. In the end we gave up two many offensive rebounds and second chance points, and they made some big plays. Deni Avdija is a special player, he helped them a lot. You have to stop players like that as a team. We did that for 25 minutes, but in the end we let it go."&nbsp;- Mohamed Kherrazi, Netherlands
"We struggled a little bit against zone and matchup zone. I'm sorry, I have to help my guys better. It's my fault, because the guys put the energy and effort on the floor, it's my job to try and give them better help. It's one tough loss, the first to fault is me."&nbsp;- Netherlands coach Maurizio Buscaglia&nbsp;

The following game recap was originally published on FIBA's official website. Check out their complete coverage of FIBA EuroBasket 2022.
PRAGUE (Czech Republic) - In line with all the other superheroes in this FIBA EuroBasket, Deni Avdija has connected back-to-back game winning performances. Israel are undefeated, the Netherlands drop to 0-2 in Group D.
The Oranje were in front for most of the game, but once Yam Madar caught fire, the path was carved for Deni Avdija to take over in the clutch minutes. He did it, not missing a beat, earning Israel a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Netherlands-Israel#tab=boxscore">74-67</a> win.
Turning point:&nbsp;With the Netherlands leading 62-61, the stage was set for another close finish. Coach Guy Goodes did the right thing, gave all authorities to his biggest star in Avdija. He&nbsp; delivered straight away, and-one floater, then a late shot clock three-pointer, a personal 6-0 run that made it a two-possession game with two minutes to play. His best friend, Madar, was there to join the fun by hitting a deep three-pointer to beat the shot- clock and&nbsp; giving Israel a six-point lead in the final minute. More than enough for another win.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Avdija wants the ball, wants the defensive responsibility ranging from Lauri Markkanen to Worthy de Jong, and when his country needed him most, he delivered to send Israel to 2-0. Avdija had 21 points on the night, Yam Madar was also impressive with 14, done on 4-of-8 shooting from three-point range.
Stats don't lie:&nbsp;Israel grabbed 13 offensive rebounds, compared to 4 by the Netherlands, allowing them to open up a 12-2 edge in second chance points.
Bottom line:&nbsp;Israel are enjoying the support of their fans in Prague, and they join Serbia at the top of the group with a 2-0 record.
The Netherlands got 12 points from Worthy de Jong, but the rebounding killed their chance of grabbing a famous first win in Czech Republic.
They said:
"We didn't come with the right energy and the mindset. I'm happy that we showed character and stuck together. We pulled out a win, which is important for us. We now have a day to recover and move on from there."&nbsp;- Tamir Blatt, Israel
"We knew that the Netherlands were a team that does a lot of driving and shooting from inside, but we didn't stop that. Second half, it was a totally different game. They scored 27 points, we started being aggressive on defense, we scored 42, and that was the difference between those two halfs. This is the life of the tournament, every game is different, but we are happy to be here with two wins."&nbsp;- Israel coach Guy Goodes
"This is a tough loss. We had the game under control, the first 20 minutes everything looked great, the coaching staff prepared us for everything. In the end we gave up two many offensive rebounds and second chance points, and they made some big plays. Deni Avdija is a special player, he helped them a lot. You have to stop players like that as a team. We did that for 25 minutes, but in the end we let it go."&nbsp;- Mohamed Kherrazi, Netherlands
"We struggled a little bit against zone and matchup zone. I'm sorry, I have to help my guys better. It's my fault, because the guys put the energy and effort on the floor, it's my job to try and give them better help. It's one tough loss, the first to fault is me."&nbsp;- Netherlands coach Maurizio Buscaglia&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/news/he-did-it-again-clutch-avdija-wins-it-for-israel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The following game recap</a> was originally published on FIBA's official website. Check out their complete coverage of FIBA EuroBasket 2022.
PRAGUE (Czech Republic) - In line with all the other superheroes in this FIBA EuroBasket, Deni Avdija has connected back-to-back game winning performances. Israel are undefeated, the Netherlands drop to 0-2 in Group D.
The Oranje were in front for most of the game, but once Yam Madar caught fire, the path was carved for Deni Avdija to take over in the clutch minutes. He did it, not missing a beat, earning Israel a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Netherlands-Israel#tab=boxscore">74-67</a> win.
Turning point:&nbsp;With the Netherlands leading 62-61, the stage was set for another close finish. Coach Guy Goodes did the right thing, gave all authorities to his biggest star in Avdija. He&nbsp; delivered straight away, and-one floater, then a late shot clock three-pointer, a personal 6-0 run that made it a two-possession game with two minutes to play. His best friend, Madar, was there to join the fun by hitting a deep three-pointer to beat the shot- clock and&nbsp; giving Israel a six-point lead in the final minute. More than enough for another win.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Avdija wants the ball, wants the defensive responsibility ranging from Lauri Markkanen to Worthy de Jong, and when his country needed him most, he delivered to send Israel to 2-0. Avdija had 21 points on the night, Yam Madar was also impressive with 14, done on 4-of-8 shooting from three-point range.
Stats don't lie:&nbsp;Israel grabbed 13 offensive rebounds, compared to 4 by the Netherlands, allowing them to open up a 12-2 edge in second chance points.
Bottom line:&nbsp;Israel are enjoying the support of their fans in Prague, and they join Serbia at the top of the group with a 2-0 record.
The Netherlands got 12 points from Worthy de Jong, but the rebounding killed their chance of grabbing a famous first win in Czech Republic.
They said:
"We didn't come with the right energy and the mindset. I'm happy that we showed character and stuck together. We pulled out a win, which is important for us. We now have a day to recover and move on from there."&nbsp;- Tamir Blatt, Israel
"We knew that the Netherlands were a team that does a lot of driving and shooting from inside, but we didn't stop that. Second half, it was a totally different game. They scored 27 points, we started being aggressive on defense, we scored 42, and that was the difference between those two halfs. This is the life of the tournament, every game is different, but we are happy to be here with two wins."&nbsp;- Israel coach Guy Goodes
"This is a tough loss. We had the game under control, the first 20 minutes everything looked great, the coaching staff prepared us for everything. In the end we gave up two many offensive rebounds and second chance points, and they made some big plays. Deni Avdija is a special player, he helped them a lot. You have to stop players like that as a team. We did that for 25 minutes, but in the end we let it go."&nbsp;- Mohamed Kherrazi, Netherlands
"We struggled a little bit against zone and matchup zone. I'm sorry, I have to help my guys better. It's my fault, because the guys put the energy and effort on the floor, it's my job to try and give them better help. It's one tough loss, the first to fault is me."&nbsp;- Netherlands coach Maurizio Buscaglia&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/news/he-did-it-again-clutch-avdija-wins-it-for-israel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The following game recap</a> was originally published on FIBA's official website. Check out their <a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">complete coverage of FIBA EuroBasket 2022.</a>
PRAGUE (Czech Republic) - In line with all the other superheroes in this FIBA EuroBasket, Deni Avdija has connected back-to-back game winning performances. Israel are undefeated, the Netherlands drop to 0-2 in Group D.
The Oranje were in front for most of the game, but once Yam Madar caught fire, the path was carved for Deni Avdija to take over in the clutch minutes. He did it, not missing a beat, earning Israel a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Netherlands-Israel#tab=boxscore">74-67</a> win.
Turning point:&nbsp;With the Netherlands leading 62-61, the stage was set for another close finish. Coach Guy Goodes did the right thing, gave all authorities to his biggest star in Avdija. He&nbsp; delivered straight away, and-one floater, then a late shot clock three-pointer, a personal 6-0 run that made it a two-possession game with two minutes to play. His best friend, Madar, was there to join the fun by hitting a deep three-pointer to beat the shot- clock and&nbsp; giving Israel a six-point lead in the final minute. More than enough for another win.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Avdija wants the ball, wants the defensive responsibility ranging from Lauri Markkanen to Worthy de Jong, and when his country needed him most, he delivered to send Israel to 2-0. Avdija had 21 points on the night, Yam Madar was also impressive with 14, done on 4-of-8 shooting from three-point range.
Stats don't lie:&nbsp;Israel grabbed 13 offensive rebounds, compared to 4 by the Netherlands, allowing them to open up a 12-2 edge in second chance points.
Bottom line:&nbsp;Israel are enjoying the support of their fans in Prague, and they join Serbia at the top of the group with a 2-0 record.
The Netherlands got 12 points from Worthy de Jong, but the rebounding killed their chance of grabbing a famous first win in Czech Republic.
They said:
"We didn't come with the right energy and the mindset. I'm happy that we showed character and stuck together. We pulled out a win, which is important for us. We now have a day to recover and move on from there."&nbsp;- Tamir Blatt, Israel
"We knew that the Netherlands were a team that does a lot of driving and shooting from inside, but we didn't stop that. Second half, it was a totally different game. They scored 27 points, we started being aggressive on defense, we scored 42, and that was the difference between those two halfs. This is the life of the tournament, every game is different, but we are happy to be here with two wins."&nbsp;- Israel coach Guy Goodes
"This is a tough loss. We had the game under control, the first 20 minutes everything looked great, the coaching staff prepared us for everything. In the end we gave up two many offensive rebounds and second chance points, and they made some big plays. Deni Avdija is a special player, he helped them a lot. You have to stop players like that as a team. We did that for 25 minutes, but in the end we let it go."&nbsp;- Mohamed Kherrazi, Netherlands
"We struggled a little bit against zone and matchup zone. I'm sorry, I have to help my guys better. It's my fault, because the guys put the energy and effort on the floor, it's my job to try and give them better help. It's one tough loss, the first to fault is me."&nbsp;- Netherlands coach Maurizio Buscaglia&nbsp;

Deni Avdija continues to impress as he etches another game winning performance into the hearts of the Netherlands for Israel.

He did it again: Clutch Avdija wins it for Israel

MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

&nbsp;
MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

The following game recap was originally published on FIBA's official website. Check out their complete coverage of FIBA EuroBasket 2022.
MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

The following game recap was originally published on FIBA's official website. Check out their complete coverage of FIBA EuroBasket 2022.
MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/news/greece-eke-out-win-over-italy-amid-saturday-night-fervor-in-milan">The following game recap</a> was originally published on FIBA's official website. Check out their complete coverage of FIBA EuroBasket 2022.
MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/news/greece-eke-out-win-over-italy-amid-saturday-night-fervor-in-milan">The following game recap</a> was originally published on FIBA's official website. Check out their <a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">complete coverage of FIBA EuroBasket 2022</a>.
MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/news/greece-eke-out-win-over-italy-amid-saturday-night-fervor-in-milan" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The following game recap</a> was originally published on FIBA's official website. Check out their <a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">complete coverage of FIBA EuroBasket 2022</a>.
MILAN (Italy) &ndash; Greece maintained their 100 percent start at FIBA EuroBasket 2022 by outlasting co-hosts Italy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/eurobasket/2022/game/0309/Greece-Italy#tab=boxscore">85-81</a>&nbsp;in a compelling encounter that eventually went to the wire.
It showcased everything that is great about international basketball, great stars at their peak, battling one another intensely, in front of 11,742 fans at the Milano Assago Arena.
The Greeks began vigorously, their pressure defense amped to the max, and the combo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyler Dorsey finding opportunities to build an early 16-7 lead.
After starting 0-for-5 from three-point range, Gigi Datome kickstarted an Italian revival from deep amid an 8-2 burst in the first - and despite an 11-3 Greek surge in the second, an ability to get to the foul line accelerated the home side within reach at 47-40 at the half.
Saturday night fervor was in plentiful supply in front of a capacity crowd sprinkled with basketball royalty in the shape of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and an array of former charges including Marco Belinelli and Luis Scola.
They received a second half treat as the rivals danced and swayed back and forth, Greece up 14 in the third but then bombarded by consecutive threes from Simone Fontecchio inside a minute and then another from Achille Polonara.
The Azzurri were forced to scrap for every chances when their guests re-opened a double-digit advantage entering the fourth. This time, Greece had just enough breathing space to shrug off a late rally, inspired by Fontecchio and a small ball switch, that slashed the lead to just three with Stefano Tonut's attempt to force overtime with two seconds left missing its mark.
Turning Point:&nbsp;Italy never led but continued to find ways to respond to each Greek surge until late in the third when a 12-2 run broke their resolve. It began with two free throws from Giannis Antetokounmpo but when he immediately went to the bench, his colleagues seized the spotlight to build a 71-56 advantage that proved insurmountable.
TCL Player of the Game:&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo was very much The Greek Freak, notching 7 of his game-high 25 points in a tone-setting opening period as defensive anchor and eventually adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
Stats Don&rsquo;t Lie:&nbsp;Greece found efficient scoring, converting 27-for-60 and finding sweet spots under the basket and off screens to find open threes on the left, a mirror image of Italy.
Bottom Line:&nbsp;Greece is 2-0 following what were expected to be its two toughest games in Group C. There are still wrinkles to iron out before the transfer to Berlin. Italy, now 1-1, may need to nurse bruises before Monday&rsquo;s meeting with Ukraine.
They said:
"I think if we fight, we're going to make mistakes every game. But if we fight, we keep battling, no matter if we're up or down. We just keep pushing - I think that's the goal. Because when we get down, when they make runs, that can be contagious. We've just got to keep our body language right and just keep fighting." -&nbsp;Greece guard Tyler Dorsey
&ldquo;We remained competitive and that&rsquo;s the good thing,. We refused to step back. We were always on the level of being very competitive, We had our good moments. Unfortunately the bad moments, Italy came back. They`re such a team. We prepared for that in terms of Italy playing small ball. They played ball out with great shooters in Melli and Polonara but we managed to control that with switches. We had our challenges with our system and our play with the big bodies out there but the forwards and guards did a great job.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Greek head coach Dimitrios Itoudis
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m really proud of my players. We played so hard. But the best thing that we showed tonight is that we never give up. Probably another team in that situation, where we were in the third quarter, when we were a little bit tired, Greece&nbsp; was playing great and I was a little bit worried. But my players showed me I had no need to be worried.&rdquo; &ndash;&nbsp;Italy head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco

Greece gets a tough win against Italy in the group stage of EuroBasket 2022.

Greece eke out win over Italy amid Saturday night fervor in Milan

HENDERSON, Nev. &ndash; For the first time, NBA G League Ignite will play a full 50-game NBA G League schedule, making the team eligible to compete for an NBA G League championship in the 2022-23 season.
The NBA G League schedule will once again be split into two parts: the 18-game Showcase Cup, followed by a 32-game regular season. Last season, Ignite played 27 total games &ndash; participating in 14 Showcase Cup games before playing 13 games on the Ignite Tour in lieu of G League regular season contests.
&ldquo;Competing for a G League Championship will give our young Draft-eligible players an opportunity to experience a full professional season,&rdquo; said Ignite head coach Jason Hart. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re looking forward to using each of the 50 games to develop and get better every day while bringing great basketball to an energized fanbase in our new home in the Las Vegas Valley.&rdquo;
Ignite debuts at The Dollar Loan Center with a Friday, Nov. 4 season opener against the Oklahoma City Blue, tipping off a 16-game Showcase Cup slate. Ignite will face the Blue, SLC Stars, South Bay Lakers, Santa Cruz Warriors, Ontario Clippers and Stockton Kings as part of its Showcase Cup regional pod. The teams with the best winning-percentage in each of the G League&rsquo;s four regional pods, along with the next four teams across the league with the best win-percentages, will advance to compete for the Showcase Cup during the AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase, set for Dec. 19-22 in Las Vegas.
Following the Showcase Cup, team records will reset in advance of the 32-game regular season. Ignite&rsquo;s regular season tips off against the Clippers on Tuesday, Dec. 27. Among the team&rsquo;s 16 regular-season games in its new home arena this year is an inaugural matchup between Ignite and the Fort Wayne Mad Ants plus a home series with the Mexico City Capitanes. Ignite will also make its first visits to a number of G League markets this year, including trips to the Birmingham Squadron, Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Texas Legends, Austin Spurs, Memphis Hustle and Raptors 905.
At the conclusion of the regular season, the top six teams in each conference will qualify for the NBA G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel, followed by the NBA G League Finals presented by YouTube TV in April 2023.
Beginning this season, games that advance to overtime will be determined by a Final Target Score. The winner of overtime games during the season will be the first team to reach or surpass the Final Target Score, which will be the tied score after four quarters plus seven. For example, if the teams are tied at 100-100, the Final Target Score would be 107. Overtime will be untimed and games will end when a team makes a basket or free throw to reach or surpass the Final Target Score.
Hart returns for his second season with Ignite to lead a talented roster of elite youth players including NBA Draft 2023 top prospect Scoot Henderson, French U18 National Team star Sidy Cissoko and former Washington state forward Efe Abogidi.
Season ticket deposits for all 24 of Ignite&rsquo;s home games are available now at TheDollarLoanCenter.com, and official merchandise can be purchased on TeamIgniteShop.com. Broadcast information and game promotions will be announced at a later date. Follow Ignite on Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and updates.
About NBA G League Ignite NBA G League Ignite is a first-of-its-kind team dedicated to developing top young prospects in preparation for the NBA Draft. &nbsp;Based at The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nev., the roster includes elite players who are eligible for the NBA Draft and players in the early stages of their professional basketball careers as well as NBA and NBA G League veterans who serve as mentors to the team&rsquo;s young talent. &nbsp;In addition to accelerated on-court development and competing toward an NBA G League Championship, the team focuses on life skills training that includes financial literacy education, community service involvement and scholarship opportunities. Related Posts 2022-23 NBA G League season tips off Nov. 4 NBA G League Ignite moves to The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nevada Efe Abogidi signs with NBA G League Ignite Prasar Bharati to air WNBA and NBA G League programming on DD Sports NBA G League announces field of 44 draft prospects for 2022 NBA G League Elite Camp in Chicago

HENDERSON, Nev. &ndash; For the first time, NBA G League Ignite will play a full 50-game NBA G League schedule, making the team eligible to compete for an NBA G League championship in the 2022-23 season.
The NBA G League schedule will once again be split into two parts: the 18-game Showcase Cup, followed by a 32-game regular season. Last season, Ignite played 27 total games &ndash; participating in 14 Showcase Cup games before playing 13 games on the Ignite Tour in lieu of G League regular season contests.
&ldquo;Competing for a G League Championship will give our young Draft-eligible players an opportunity to experience a full professional season,&rdquo; said Ignite head coach Jason Hart. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re looking forward to using each of the 50 games to develop and get better every day while bringing great basketball to an energized fanbase in our new home in the Las Vegas Valley.&rdquo;
Ignite debuts at The Dollar Loan Center with a Friday, Nov. 4 season opener against the Oklahoma City Blue, tipping off a 16-game Showcase Cup slate. Ignite will face the Blue, SLC Stars, South Bay Lakers, Santa Cruz Warriors, Ontario Clippers and Stockton Kings as part of its Showcase Cup regional pod. The teams with the best winning-percentage in each of the G League&rsquo;s four regional pods, along with the next four teams across the league with the best win-percentages, will advance to compete for the Showcase Cup during the AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase, set for Dec. 19-22 in Las Vegas.
Following the Showcase Cup, team records will reset in advance of the 32-game regular season. Ignite&rsquo;s regular season tips off against the Clippers on Tuesday, Dec. 27. Among the team&rsquo;s 16 regular-season games in its new home arena this year is an inaugural matchup between Ignite and the Fort Wayne Mad Ants plus a home series with the Mexico City Capitanes. Ignite will also make its first visits to a number of G League markets this year, including trips to the Birmingham Squadron, Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Texas Legends, Austin Spurs, Memphis Hustle and Raptors 905.
At the conclusion of the regular season, the top six teams in each conference will qualify for the NBA G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel, followed by the NBA G League Finals presented by YouTube TV in April 2023.
Beginning this season, games that advance to overtime will be determined by a Final Target Score. The winner of overtime games during the season will be the first team to reach or surpass the Final Target Score, which will be the tied score after four quarters plus seven. For example, if the teams are tied at 100-100, the Final Target Score would be 107. Overtime will be untimed and games will end when a team makes a basket or free throw to reach or surpass the Final Target Score.
Hart returns for his second season with Ignite to lead a talented roster of elite youth players including NBA Draft 2023 top prospect Scoot Henderson, French U18 National Team star Sidy Cissoko and former Washington state forward Efe Abogidi.
Season ticket deposits for all 24 of Ignite&rsquo;s home games are available now at TheDollarLoanCenter.com, and official merchandise can be purchased on TeamIgniteShop.com. Broadcast information and game promotions will be announced at a later date. Follow Ignite on Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and updates.
About NBA G League Ignite
NBA G League Ignite is a first-of-its-kind team dedicated to developing top young prospects in preparation for the NBA Draft. &nbsp;Based at The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nev., the roster includes elite players who are eligible for the NBA Draft and players in the early stages of their professional basketball careers as well as NBA and NBA G League veterans who serve as mentors to the team&rsquo;s young talent. &nbsp;In addition to accelerated on-court development and competing toward an NBA G League Championship, the team focuses on life skills training that includes financial literacy education, community service involvement and scholarship opportunities.

HENDERSON, Nev. &ndash; For the first time, NBA G League Ignite will play a full 50-game NBA G League schedule, making the team eligible to compete for an NBA G League championship in the 2022-23 season.
The NBA G League schedule will once again be split into two parts: the 18-game Showcase Cup, followed by a 32-game regular season. Last season, Ignite played 27 total games &ndash; participating in 14 Showcase Cup games before playing 13 games on the Ignite Tour in lieu of G League regular season contests.
&ldquo;Competing for a G League Championship will give our young Draft-eligible players an opportunity to experience a full professional season,&rdquo; said Ignite head coach Jason Hart. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re looking forward to using each of the 50 games to develop and get better every day while bringing great basketball to an energized fanbase in our new home in the Las Vegas Valley.&rdquo;
Ignite debuts at The Dollar Loan Center with a Friday, Nov. 4 season opener against the Oklahoma City Blue, tipping off a 16-game Showcase Cup slate. Ignite will face the Blue, SLC Stars, South Bay Lakers, Santa Cruz Warriors, Ontario Clippers and Stockton Kings as part of its Showcase Cup regional pod. The teams with the best winning-percentage in each of the G League&rsquo;s four regional pods, along with the next four teams across the league with the best win-percentages, will advance to compete for the Showcase Cup during the AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase, set for Dec. 19-22 in Las Vegas.
Following the Showcase Cup, team records will reset in advance of the 32-game regular season. Ignite&rsquo;s regular season tips off against the Clippers on Tuesday, Dec. 27. Among the team&rsquo;s 16 regular-season games in its new home arena this year is an inaugural matchup between Ignite and the Fort Wayne Mad Ants plus a home series with the Mexico City Capitanes. Ignite will also make its first visits to a number of G League markets this year, including trips to the Birmingham Squadron, Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Texas Legends, Austin Spurs, Memphis Hustle and Raptors 905.
At the conclusion of the regular season, the top six teams in each conference will qualify for the NBA G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel, followed by the NBA G League Finals presented by YouTube TV in April 2023.
Beginning this season, games that advance to overtime will be determined by a Final Target Score. The winner of overtime games during the season will be the first team to reach or surpass the Final Target Score, which will be the tied score after four quarters plus seven. For example, if the teams are tied at 100-100, the Final Target Score would be 107. Overtime will be untimed and games will end when a team makes a basket or free throw to reach or surpass the Final Target Score.
Hart returns for his second season with Ignite to lead a talented roster of elite youth players including NBA Draft 2023 top prospect Scoot Henderson, French U18 National Team star Sidy Cissoko and former Washington state forward Efe Abogidi.
Season ticket deposits for all 24 of Ignite&rsquo;s home games are available now at TheDollarLoanCenter.com, and official merchandise can be purchased on TeamIgniteShop.com. Broadcast information and game promotions will be announced at a later date. Follow Ignite on Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and updates.
About NBA G League Ignite
NBA G League Ignite is a first-of-its-kind team dedicated to developing top young prospects in preparation for the NBA Draft. &nbsp;Based at The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nev., the roster includes elite players who are eligible for the NBA Draft and players in the early stages of their professional basketball careers as well as NBA and NBA G League veterans who serve as mentors to the team&rsquo;s young talent. &nbsp;In addition to accelerated on-court development and competing toward an NBA G League Championship, the team focuses on life skills training that includes financial literacy education, community service involvement and scholarship opportunities.

For the first time, NBA G League Ignite will play a 50-game schedule, making them eligible to compete for a G League title.

G League Ignite set for full 50-game schedule in 2022-23 season

NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA G League today released its complete 2022-23 game schedule, which tips off on Friday, Nov. 4. &nbsp;For the second consecutive season, the schedule will be split into two parts: the 18-game Showcase Cup followed by a 32-game regular season.
Beginning in 2022-23, games that advance to overtime will be determined by a Final Target Score. &nbsp;The winner of an overtime game during the season will be the first team to reach or surpass the Final Target Score, which will be the tied score after four quarters plus seven. &nbsp;For example, if the teams are tied at 100-100, the Final Target Score would be 107. &nbsp;Overtime will be untimed and games will end when a team makes a basket or free throw to reach or surpass the Final Target Score.
Additionally, all 31 games at the 2022 AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase in Las Vegas will utilize a 25-point Final Target Score during an untimed fourth quarter. Under this model, the Final Target Score will be the leading team&rsquo;s score after three quarters plus 25.
The Showcase Cup begins on Friday, Nov. 4 and culminates with a single-elimination tournament to crown a champion at the 2022 AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase from Dec. 19-22. &nbsp;During the Showcase Cup, teams are separated into four regional pods and play 16 games against one another in NBA G League markets. &nbsp;The teams with the best winning percentage in each regional pod, along with the next four teams across the league with the best win-percentages, will advance to compete for the Showcase Cup during Winter Showcase.
Following the Showcase Cup, team records will reset in advance of the 32-game regular season, which tips off on Dec. 27. &nbsp;At the conclusion of the regular season, the top six teams in each conference will qualify for the NBA G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel, followed by the NBA G League Finals presented by YouTube TV in April 2023.
The 2021 Showcase Cup champion Delaware Blue Coats open their Showcase Cup defense on Friday, Nov. 4 against the Greensboro Swarm at the Greensboro Coliseum. &nbsp;The 2021-22 NBA G League Champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers will receive their championship rings on Friday, Nov. 11 when they host the Birmingham Squadron at the Bert Ogden Arena.
All 30 NBA G League teams, including NBA G League Ignite and the M&eacute;xico City Capitanes, will compete in a total of 50 games during the 2022-23 season. &nbsp;NBA G League Ignite will debut its new home, The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nev., on Friday, Nov. 4 against the Oklahoma City Blue. &nbsp;Capitanes will host the first-ever NBA G League regular season game played in M&eacute;xico at the Arena Ciudad de M&eacute;xico when it takes on the defending champion Vipers on Sunday, Nov. 6.
The 2022-23 NBA G League calendar includes several league-wide initiatives, such as Hoops for Troops in November, Season of Giving in December, National Mentorship Month in January, Black History Month in February and Women&rsquo;s History Month in March. &nbsp;Additionally, no games will be played on Tuesday, Nov. 8 as part of the NBA&rsquo;s focus on promoting nonpartisan civic engagement on Election Day.
The 2022-23 NBA G League broadcast schedule will be announced at a later date.
About the NBA G League
The NBA&rsquo;s official minor league, the NBA G League prepares players, coaches, officials, trainers and front-office staff for the NBA while acting as the league&rsquo;s research and development laboratory. &nbsp;Featuring 30 teams, 28 with direct affiliations to NBA franchises for 2022-23, the league offers elite professional basketball at an affordable price in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. &nbsp;54 percent of all NBA players at the end of the 2021-22 season boasted NBA G League experience. &nbsp;In fostering the league&rsquo;s connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA Cares programs.

NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA G League on Monday released its complete 2022-23 game schedule, which tips off on Friday, Nov. 4. &nbsp;For the second consecutive season, the schedule will be split into two parts: the 18-game Showcase Cup followed by a 32-game regular season.
Beginning in 2022-23, games that advance to overtime will be determined by a Final Target Score. &nbsp;The winner of an overtime game during the season will be the first team to reach or surpass the Final Target Score, which will be the tied score after four quarters plus seven. &nbsp;For example, if the teams are tied at 100-100, the Final Target Score would be 107. &nbsp;Overtime will be untimed and games will end when a team makes a basket or free throw to reach or surpass the Final Target Score.
Additionally, all 31 games at the 2022 AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase in Las Vegas will utilize a 25-point Final Target Score during an untimed fourth quarter. Under this model, the Final Target Score will be the leading team&rsquo;s score after three quarters plus 25.
The Showcase Cup begins on Friday, Nov. 4 and culminates with a single-elimination tournament to crown a champion at the 2022 AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase from Dec. 19-22. &nbsp;During the Showcase Cup, teams are separated into four regional pods and play 16 games against one another in NBA G League markets. &nbsp;The teams with the best winning percentage in each regional pod, along with the next four teams across the league with the best win-percentages, will advance to compete for the Showcase Cup during Winter Showcase.
Following the Showcase Cup, team records will reset in advance of the 32-game regular season, which tips off on Dec. 27. &nbsp;At the conclusion of the regular season, the top six teams in each conference will qualify for the NBA G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel, followed by the NBA G League Finals presented by YouTube TV in April 2023.
The 2021 Showcase Cup champion Delaware Blue Coats open their Showcase Cup defense on Friday, Nov. 4 against the Greensboro Swarm at the Greensboro Coliseum. &nbsp;The 2021-22 NBA G League Champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers will receive their championship rings on Friday, Nov. 11 when they host the Birmingham Squadron at the Bert Ogden Arena.
All 30 NBA G League teams, including NBA G League Ignite and the M&eacute;xico City Capitanes, will compete in a total of 50 games during the 2022-23 season. &nbsp;NBA G League Ignite will debut its new home, The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nev., on Friday, Nov. 4 against the Oklahoma City Blue. &nbsp;Capitanes will host the first-ever NBA G League regular season game played in M&eacute;xico at the Arena Ciudad de M&eacute;xico when it takes on the defending champion Vipers on Sunday, Nov. 6.
The 2022-23 NBA G League calendar includes several league-wide initiatives, such as Hoops for Troops in November, Season of Giving in December, National Mentorship Month in January, Black History Month in February and Women&rsquo;s History Month in March. &nbsp;Additionally, no games will be played on Tuesday, Nov. 8 as part of the NBA&rsquo;s focus on promoting nonpartisan civic engagement on Election Day.
The 2022-23 NBA G League broadcast schedule will be announced at a later date.
About the NBA G League
The NBA&rsquo;s official minor league, the NBA G League prepares players, coaches, officials, trainers and front-office staff for the NBA while acting as the league&rsquo;s research and development laboratory. &nbsp;Featuring 30 teams, 28 with direct affiliations to NBA franchises for 2022-23, the league offers elite professional basketball at an affordable price in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. &nbsp;54 percent of all NBA players at the end of the 2021-22 season boasted NBA G League experience. &nbsp;In fostering the league&rsquo;s connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA Cares programs.

NEW YORK &ndash;&nbsp;The NBA G League on Monday released its complete 2022-23 game schedule, which tips off on Friday, Nov. 4. For the second consecutive season, the schedule will be split into two parts: the 18-game Showcase Cup followed by a 32-game regular season.
Beginning in 2022-23, games that advance to overtime will be determined by a Final Target Score. &nbsp;The winner of an overtime game during the season will be the first team to reach or surpass the Final Target Score, which will be the tied score after four quarters plus seven. &nbsp;For example, if the teams are tied at 100-100, the Final Target Score would be 107. &nbsp;Overtime will be untimed and games will end when a team makes a basket or free throw to reach or surpass the Final Target Score.
Additionally, all 31 games at the 2022 AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase in Las Vegas will utilize a 25-point Final Target Score during an untimed fourth quarter. Under this model, the Final Target Score will be the leading team&rsquo;s score after three quarters plus 25.
The Showcase Cup begins on Friday, Nov. 4 and culminates with a single-elimination tournament to crown a champion at the 2022 AT&amp;T NBA G League Winter Showcase from Dec. 19-22. &nbsp;During the Showcase Cup, teams are separated into four regional pods and play 16 games against one another in NBA G League markets. &nbsp;The teams with the best winning percentage in each regional pod, along with the next four teams across the league with the best win-percentages, will advance to compete for the Showcase Cup during Winter Showcase.
Following the Showcase Cup, team records will reset in advance of the 32-game regular season, which tips off on Dec. 27. &nbsp;At the conclusion of the regular season, the top six teams in each conference will qualify for the NBA G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel, followed by the NBA G League Finals presented by YouTube TV in April 2023.
The 2021 Showcase Cup champion Delaware Blue Coats open their Showcase Cup defense on Friday, Nov. 4 against the Greensboro Swarm at the Greensboro Coliseum. &nbsp;The 2021-22 NBA G League Champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers will receive their championship rings on Friday, Nov. 11 when they host the Birmingham Squadron at the Bert Ogden Arena.
All 30 NBA G League teams, including NBA G League Ignite and the M&eacute;xico City Capitanes, will compete in a total of 50 games during the 2022-23 season. &nbsp;NBA G League Ignite will debut its new home, The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nev., on Friday, Nov. 4 against the Oklahoma City Blue. &nbsp;Capitanes will host the first-ever NBA G League regular season game played in M&eacute;xico at the Arena Ciudad de M&eacute;xico when it takes on the defending champion Vipers on Sunday, Nov. 6.
The 2022-23 NBA G League calendar includes several league-wide initiatives, such as Hoops for Troops in November, Season of Giving in December, National Mentorship Month in January, Black History Month in February and Women&rsquo;s History Month in March. &nbsp;Additionally, no games will be played on Tuesday, Nov. 8 as part of the NBA&rsquo;s focus on promoting nonpartisan civic engagement on Election Day.
The 2022-23 NBA G League broadcast schedule will be announced at a later date.
About the NBA G League
The NBA&rsquo;s official minor league, the NBA G League prepares players, coaches, officials, trainers and front-office staff for the NBA while acting as the league&rsquo;s research and development laboratory. &nbsp;Featuring 30 teams, 28 with direct affiliations to NBA franchises for 2022-23, the league offers elite professional basketball at an affordable price in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. &nbsp;54 percent of all NBA players at the end of the 2021-22 season boasted NBA G League experience. &nbsp;In fostering the league&rsquo;s connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA Cares programs.

The NBA G League on Monday released its complete 2022-23 game schedule, which tips off on Friday, Nov. 4.

2022-23 NBA G League season tips off Nov. 4

Yuta Watanabe has agreed to a deal with the Toronto Raptors&nbsp;

Yuta Watanabe has agreed to a deal with the Toronto Raptors.
&nbsp;

Yuta Watanabe has agreed to a deal with the Toronto Raptors.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark">
The Nets say team has signed free agent Yuta Watanabe. The Japanese forward has played four seasons for Toronto and Memphis.
&mdash; Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1563998774975938560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2022</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
Source:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="GutenbergParagraph_gutenbergParagraph__unejv GutenbergParagraph_gutenbergParagraphMedium__EQvYc">
BROOKLYN &ndash;&nbsp;The Brooklyn Nets have signed free agent forward Yuta Watanabe. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not released.
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<div class="GutenbergParagraph_gutenbergParagraph__unejv GutenbergParagraph_gutenbergParagraphMedium__EQvYc">
Watanabe (6&rsquo;8&rdquo;, 214) has appeared in 121 games (eight starts) across four seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies (2018-20) and Toronto Raptors (2020-22), recording averages of 3.8 points on 40.9 percent shooting from the field, 35.2 percent shooting from 3-point range and 66.7 percent shooting from the free-throw line and 2.5 rebounds in 12.0 minutes per game. Most recently, the 27-year-old saw action in 38 games (four starts) with the Raptors during the 2021-22 season, posting averages of 4.3 points and 2.4 rebounds in 11.7 minutes per contest. In addition to his NBA experience, Watanabe has also played in 56 NBA G League games (55 starts) split between the Memphis Hustle and Raptors 905, averaging 15.5 points on 47.8 percent shooting from the field, 34.8 percent shooting from distance and 82.7 percent shooting from the free-throw line, 6.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.1 blocks in 33.5 minutes per game. The native of Kagawa, Japan, has competed on the international stage for his home country, including in the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, where he led Japan in scoring.
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<div class="GutenbergParagraph_gutenbergParagraph__unejv GutenbergParagraph_gutenbergParagraphMedium__EQvYc">
Watanabe went undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft and then played in the Las Vegas NBA Summer League with the Nets. Prior to beginning his professional career, Watanabe spent four years (2014-18) at George Washington University, becoming the first Japanese-born student athlete to earn a NCAA Division I basketball scholarship. As a senior, Watanabe garnered Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year honors and was named to the All-Atlantic 10 Third Team.
</div>

<div>
BROOKLYN &ndash;&nbsp;The Brooklyn Nets have signed free agent forward Yuta Watanabe. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not released.
</div>
<div>
Watanabe (6&rsquo;8&rdquo;, 214) has appeared in 121 games (eight starts) across four seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies (2018-20) and Toronto Raptors (2020-22), recording averages of 3.8 points on 40.9 percent shooting from the field, 35.2 percent shooting from 3-point range and 66.7 percent shooting from the free-throw line and 2.5 rebounds in 12.0 minutes per game. Most recently, the 27-year-old saw action in 38 games (four starts) with the Raptors during the 2021-22 season, posting averages of 4.3 points and 2.4 rebounds in 11.7 minutes per contest. In addition to his NBA experience, Watanabe has also played in 56 NBA G League games (55 starts) split between the Memphis Hustle and Raptors 905, averaging 15.5 points on 47.8 percent shooting from the field, 34.8 percent shooting from distance and 82.7 percent shooting from the free-throw line, 6.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.1 blocks in 33.5 minutes per game. The native of Kagawa, Japan, has competed on the international stage for his home country, including in the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, where he led Japan in scoring.
</div>
<div>
Watanabe went undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft and then played in the Las Vegas NBA Summer League with the Nets. Prior to beginning his professional career, Watanabe spent four years (2014-18) at George Washington University, becoming the first Japanese-born student athlete to earn a NCAA Division I basketball scholarship. As a senior, Watanabe garnered Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year honors and was named to the All-Atlantic 10 Third Team.
</div>

<div>
The Brooklyn Nets have signed free agent forward Yuta Watanabe. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not released.
</div>
<div>
Watanabe (6&rsquo;8&rdquo;, 214) has appeared in 121 games (eight starts) across four seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies (2018-20) and Toronto Raptors (2020-22), recording averages of 3.8 points on 40.9 percent shooting from the field, 35.2 percent shooting from 3-point range and 66.7 percent shooting from the free-throw line and 2.5 rebounds in 12.0 minutes per game. Most recently, the 27-year-old saw action in 38 games (four starts) with the Raptors during the 2021-22 season, posting averages of 4.3 points and 2.4 rebounds in 11.7 minutes per contest. In addition to his NBA experience, Watanabe has also played in 56 NBA G League games (55 starts) split between the Memphis Hustle and Raptors 905, averaging 15.5 points on 47.8 percent shooting from the field, 34.8 percent shooting from distance and 82.7 percent shooting from the free-throw line, 6.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.1 blocks in 33.5 minutes per game. The native of Kagawa, Japan, has competed on the international stage for his home country, including in the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, where he led Japan in scoring.
</div>
<div>
Watanabe went undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft and then played in the Las Vegas NBA Summer League with the Nets. Prior to beginning his professional career, Watanabe spent four years (2014-18) at George Washington University, becoming the first Japanese-born student athlete to earn a NCAA Division I basketball scholarship. As a senior, Watanabe garnered Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year honors and was named to the All-Atlantic 10 Third Team.
</div>

Brooklyn Nets sign forward Yuta Watanabe to deal.

Yuta Watanabe agrees to deal with Nets

The Oklahoma City Thunder announced today that Chet Holmgren will miss the 2022-23 NBA season due to a Lisfranc injury in his right foot. Holmgren injured his foot while competing in a Pro-Am basketball game in Seattle.
""Certainly, we are disappointed for Chet,&nbsp;especially given the excitement he had about&nbsp;getting on the floor with his teammates this&nbsp;season. We know Chet has a long career&nbsp;ahead of him within our organization and the&nbsp;Oklahoma City community. One of the things that most impressed us during the process of selecting Chet was his determination and focus. We expect that same tenacity will carry him through this period of time as we work together and support him during his rehabilitation."
&nbsp;

The Oklahoma City Thunder announced today that Chet Holmgren will miss the 2022-23 NBA season due to a Lisfranc injury in his right foot. Holmgren injured his foot while competing in a Pro-Am basketball game in Seattle.
""Certainly, we are disappointed for Chet,&nbsp;especially given the excitement he had about&nbsp;getting on the floor with his teammates this&nbsp;season," general manager Sam Presti said in a statement. "We know Chet has a long career&nbsp;ahead of him within our organization and the&nbsp;Oklahoma City community. One of the things that most impressed us during the process of&nbsp;selecting Chet was his determination and&nbsp;focus. We expect that same tenacity will carry&nbsp;him through this period of time as we work&nbsp;together and support him&nbsp;during&nbsp;his&nbsp;rehabilitation."
&nbsp;

The Oklahoma City Thunder announced today that Chet Holmgren will miss the 2022-23 NBA season due to a Lisfranc injury in his right foot. Holmgren injured his foot while competing in a Pro-Am basketball game in Seattle.
"Certainly, we are disappointed for Chet,&nbsp;especially given the excitement he had about&nbsp;getting on the floor with his teammates this&nbsp;season," general manager Sam Presti said in a statement. "We know Chet has a long career&nbsp;ahead of him within our organization and the&nbsp;Oklahoma City community. One of the things that most impressed us during the process of&nbsp;selecting Chet was his determination and&nbsp;focus. We expect that same tenacity will carry&nbsp;him through this period of time as we work&nbsp;together and support him&nbsp;during&nbsp;his&nbsp;rehabilitation."
Holmgren was the No. 2 overall selection in the 2022 NBA Draft out of Gonzaga.&nbsp;
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The Oklahoma City Thunder announced today that Chet Holmgren will miss the 2022-23 NBA season due to a Lisfranc injury in his right foot. Holmgren injured his foot while competing in a Pro-Am basketball game in Seattle.
"Certainly, we are disappointed for Chet,&nbsp;especially given the excitement he had about&nbsp;getting on the floor with his teammates this&nbsp;season," general manager Sam Presti said in a statement. "We know Chet has a long career&nbsp;ahead of him within our organization and the&nbsp;Oklahoma City community. One of the things that most impressed us during the process of&nbsp;selecting Chet was his determination and&nbsp;focus. We expect that same tenacity will carry&nbsp;him through this period of time as we work&nbsp;together and support him&nbsp;during&nbsp;his&nbsp;rehabilitation."
Holmgren was the No. 2 overall selection in the 2022 NBA Draft out of Gonzaga. He averaged 14.1 points, 9.9 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game as a freshman last season.&nbsp;
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The Oklahoma City Thunder announced today that Chet Holmgren will miss the 2022-23 NBA season due to a Lisfranc injury in his right foot. Holmgren injured his foot while competing in a Pro-Am basketball game in Seattle.
"Certainly, we are disappointed for Chet,&nbsp;especially given the excitement he had about&nbsp;getting on the floor with his teammates this&nbsp;season," <a href="https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1562802056901304324" target="_blank" rel="noopener">general manager Sam Presti said in a statement</a>. "We know Chet has a long career&nbsp;ahead of him within our organization and the&nbsp;Oklahoma City community. One of the things that most impressed us during the process of&nbsp;selecting Chet was his determination and&nbsp;focus. We expect that same tenacity will carry&nbsp;him through this period of time as we work&nbsp;together and support him&nbsp;during&nbsp;his&nbsp;rehabilitation."
Holmgren was the No. 2 overall selection in the 2022 NBA Draft out of Gonzaga. He averaged 14.1 points, 9.9 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game as a freshman last season.&nbsp;
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Holmgren was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.