NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA announced today that Toronto Raptors Governor Larry Tanenbaum has been unanimously re-elected Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors.
Tanenbaum, the longtime Chairman of Maple Leaf Sports &amp; Entertainment (MLSE), has served as NBA Board Chairman since 2017, when he became the first Canadian to ever be named to the role. &nbsp;Under his leadership, the Raptors captured the franchise&rsquo;s first NBA championship in 2019.
&ldquo;I am delighted that Larry will continue serving the league as our Chairman of the Board,&rdquo; said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. &nbsp;&ldquo;His leadership, guidance and support are greatly appreciated by me and my colleagues as well as the other team governors.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I am honoured to continue serving as Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors to help play a role in leading this great league,&rdquo; said Tanenbaum. &ldquo;I am grateful to my fellow governors for their valued support and I look forward to working with each of them, and Commissioner Silver along with the League Office staff, as we continue to grow the NBA&rsquo;s impact on the game of basketball and in our communities.&rdquo;
A Toronto native, Tanenbaum served on numerous NBA committees before becoming Chairman, including the Advisory/Finance Committee from 2008-17 and the Planning Committee from 2000-14.
Tanenbaum, one of North America&rsquo;s most influential sports figures, has been Governor of the Raptors since 1998 and holds the same title with the National Hockey League&rsquo;s Toronto Maple Leafs and Major League Soccer&rsquo;s Toronto FC. &nbsp;As Chairman of MLSE, he has been widely recognized for his leadership helping sports leagues, professional teams and the Canadian market successfully navigate through the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In recognition of his contributions in the areas of philanthropy, business and volunteerism, Mr. Tanenbaum was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada on October 25, 2007. &nbsp;The Order of Canada is the centre piece of Canada&rsquo;s honors system and represents its highest civilian award.

NEW YORK &ndash; The NBA announced that Toronto Raptors Governor Larry Tanenbaum has been unanimously re-elected Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors.
Tanenbaum, the longtime Chairman of Maple Leaf Sports &amp; Entertainment (MLSE), has served as NBA Board Chairman since 2017, when he became the first Canadian to ever be named to the role. &nbsp;Under his leadership, the Raptors captured the franchise&rsquo;s first NBA championship in 2019.
&ldquo;I am delighted that Larry will continue serving the league as our Chairman of the Board,&rdquo; said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. &nbsp;&ldquo;His leadership, guidance and support are greatly appreciated by me and my colleagues as well as the other team governors.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I am honoured to continue serving as Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors to help play a role in leading this great league,&rdquo; said Tanenbaum. &ldquo;I am grateful to my fellow governors for their valued support and I look forward to working with each of them, and Commissioner Silver along with the League Office staff, as we continue to grow the NBA&rsquo;s impact on the game of basketball and in our communities.&rdquo;
A Toronto native, Tanenbaum served on numerous NBA committees before becoming Chairman, including the Advisory/Finance Committee from 2008-17 and the Planning Committee from 2000-14.
Tanenbaum, one of North America&rsquo;s most influential sports figures, has been Governor of the Raptors since 1998 and holds the same title with the National Hockey League&rsquo;s Toronto Maple Leafs and Major League Soccer&rsquo;s Toronto FC. &nbsp;As Chairman of MLSE, he has been widely recognized for his leadership helping sports leagues, professional teams and the Canadian market successfully navigate through the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In recognition of his contributions in the areas of philanthropy, business and volunteerism, Mr. Tanenbaum was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada on October 25, 2007. &nbsp;The Order of Canada is the centre piece of Canada&rsquo;s honors system and represents its highest civilian award.

Tanenbaum: “I am honoured to continue serving as Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors to help play a role in leading this great league."

Raptors’ Larry Tanenbaum re-elected chairman of NBA Board of Governors

NEW YORK &ndash; NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement:
&ldquo;I fully support the decision by Robert Sarver to sell the Phoenix Suns and Mercury. &nbsp;This is the right next step for the organization and community.&rdquo;

NBA commissioner Adam Silver released a statement on Robert Sarver's decision to sell the Phoenix Suns and Mercury.

Adam Silver: Suns, Mercury being sold 'right next step for organization'

Robert Sarver, managing partner of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, today issued the following statement.
PHOENIX, Sept. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Words that I deeply regret now overshadow nearly two decades of building organizations that brought people together &ndash; and strengthened the Phoenix area &ndash; through the unifying power of professional men's and women's basketball. &nbsp;
As a man of faith, I believe in atonement and the path to forgiveness. I expected that the commissioner's one-year suspension would provide the time for me to focus, make amends and remove my personal controversy from the teams that I and so many fans love.
But in our current unforgiving climate, it has become painfully clear that that is no longer possible &ndash; that whatever good I have done, or could still do, is outweighed by things I have said in the past. For those reasons, I am beginning the process of seeking buyers for the Suns and Mercury.
I do not want to be a distraction to these two teams and the fine people who work so hard to bring the joy and excitement of basketball to fans around the world. I want what's best for these two organizations, the players, the employees, the fans, the community, my fellow owners, the NBA and the WNBA. This is the best course of action for everyone.
In the meantime, I will continue to work on becoming a better person, and continuing to support the community in meaningful ways. Thank you for continuing to root for the Suns and the Mercury, embracing the power that sports has to bring us together.

Robert Sarver, managing partner of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, today <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/statement-from-robert-sarver-301629996.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">issued the following statement</a>.
PHOENIX, Sept. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Words that I deeply regret now overshadow nearly two decades of building organizations that brought people together &ndash; and strengthened the Phoenix area &ndash; through the unifying power of professional men's and women's basketball. &nbsp;
As a man of faith, I believe in atonement and the path to forgiveness. I expected that the commissioner's one-year suspension would provide the time for me to focus, make amends and remove my personal controversy from the teams that I and so many fans love.
But in our current unforgiving climate, it has become painfully clear that that is no longer possible &ndash; that whatever good I have done, or could still do, is outweighed by things I have said in the past. For those reasons, I am beginning the process of seeking buyers for the Suns and Mercury.
I do not want to be a distraction to these two teams and the fine people who work so hard to bring the joy and excitement of basketball to fans around the world. I want what's best for these two organizations, the players, the employees, the fans, the community, my fellow owners, the NBA and the WNBA. This is the best course of action for everyone.
In the meantime, I will continue to work on becoming a better person, and continuing to support the community in meaningful ways. Thank you for continuing to root for the Suns and the Mercury, embracing the power that sports has to bring us together.

"I am beginning the process of seeking buyers for the Suns and Mercury," Robert Sarver shared in a statement Wednesday.

Robert Sarver announces intentions to sell Phoenix Suns, Mercury

Overtime Elite's recruiting period for the program's second season has concluded with the addition of 7-foot high school junior Somtochukwu Cyril, <a href="https://247sports.com/college/basketball/recruiting/Article/College-Basketball-Recruiting-Somto-Cyril-joins-Overtime-Elite-and-retains-college-eligibility-193787494/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">according to 24/7 Sports</a>.
<blockquote>
One of the most physically imposing frontcourt players in the country regardless of class, Cyril has built up quite the reputation over the past few years at Chatanooga (Tenn.) Hamilton Heights and during the summer with EAB Tennessee. He is a ferocious rebounder, terrific shot blocker, runs the floor and has been developing nicely on the offensive end of the floor.
</blockquote>
Per the article, Cyril joins OTE as a scholarship player with no professional pay, allowing him to retain his college eligibility.
&ldquo;Somto stands out immediately on the court with his physical presence affecting play on the defensive end and cleaning up the boards,&rdquo; <a href="https://247sports.com/college/basketball/recruiting/Article/College-Basketball-Recruiting-Somto-Cyril-joins-Overtime-Elite-and-retains-college-eligibility-193787494/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said Tim Fuller, VP Recruiting and Player Personnel</a>. &ldquo;What OTE provides from a player development standpoint will be perfect for Somto as he continues to get better with his physical frame allowing him to take that next step as a basketball player. We&rsquo;re happy to welcome him and his family to the OTE family.&rdquo;
&ldquo;As good as Somto is on the court, he&rsquo;s as good of a person off the court and we&rsquo;re lucky to have him at OTE,&rdquo; said Kevin Ollie, OTE Director of Player Development. &ldquo;His size and athleticism add an element in the paint to our program that will be a challenge for all of our players next season. We can&rsquo;t wait to get to work and help him reach his goals.&rdquo;

Overtime Elite's recruiting period for the program's second season has concluded with the addition of 7-foot high school junior Somtochukwu Cyril, <a href="https://247sports.com/college/basketball/recruiting/Article/College-Basketball-Recruiting-Somto-Cyril-joins-Overtime-Elite-and-retains-college-eligibility-193787494/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">according to 24/7 Sports</a>.
<blockquote>
One of the most physically imposing frontcourt players in the country regardless of class, Cyril has built up quite the reputation over the past few years at Chatanooga (Tenn.) Hamilton Heights and during the summer with EAB Tennessee. He is a ferocious rebounder, terrific shot blocker, runs the floor and has been developing nicely on the offensive end of the floor.
</blockquote>
Per the article, Cyril will join OTE as a scholarship player with no professional pay, allowing him to retain his college eligibility.
&ldquo;Somto stands out immediately on the court with his physical presence affecting play on the defensive end and cleaning up the boards,&rdquo; <a href="https://247sports.com/college/basketball/recruiting/Article/College-Basketball-Recruiting-Somto-Cyril-joins-Overtime-Elite-and-retains-college-eligibility-193787494/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said Tim Fuller, VP Recruiting and Player Personnel</a>. &ldquo;What OTE provides from a player development standpoint will be perfect for Somto as he continues to get better with his physical frame allowing him to take that next step as a basketball player. We&rsquo;re happy to welcome him and his family to the OTE family.&rdquo;
&ldquo;As good as Somto is on the court, he&rsquo;s as good of a person off the court and we&rsquo;re lucky to have him at OTE,&rdquo; said Kevin Ollie, OTE Director of Player Development. &ldquo;His size and athleticism add an element in the paint to our program that will be a challenge for all of our players next season. We can&rsquo;t wait to get to work and help him reach his goals.&rdquo;

Per 24/7 Sports, Cyril will join OTE as a scholarship player with no professional pay, allowing him to retain his college eligibility.

Overtime Elite signs Somto Cyril to cap recruiting period for 2022-23

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.