Skyhawks

There are championship teams, and then there are dynasties. The Chicago Bulls of the 1990s were the latter, a franchise that didn&rsquo;t just win titles but fundamentally changed the way the world understood professional basketball. In a candid conversation with veteran sports journalist <a href="https://scoopb.com/2026/03/from-chicago-bulls-last-dance-dynasty-to-deans-list-the-resilience-of-jason-caffey/">Brandon &ldquo;Scoop B&rdquo; Robinson</a>, former Bulls forward Jason Caffey pulled back the curtain on what it was really like inside one of the greatest teams ever assembled, revealing the tensions, the relationships, and the moments that defined an era.
<h2>The Jerry Krause Problem</h2>
Every dynasty has its fault lines, and for the Bulls, much of the internal friction ran directly through general manager Jerry Krause. Caffey didn&rsquo;t mince words when Robinson asked about the tipping point between players and the front office.
&ldquo;When I came into the situation, the guys NEVER got along with Jerry Krause. He was just a shrewd businessman. God rest his soul, but Michael would sit there on the bus and call him &lsquo;the sloop.&rsquo;&rdquo;
What followed those bus rides painted a vivid picture of a locker-room culture shaped from the top down or, in this case, from the back of the bus. When Michael Jordan set the tone on Krause, the rest of the roster followed suit. Scottie Pippen, still simmering over a contract that underpaid one of the best players in the world, added his own fuel to the fire. The result was a front office that existed in a kind of cold war with its own players, a dysfunction that somehow coexisted with six championship banners.
It speaks to the complicated legacy of that Bulls run. Chemistry doesn&rsquo;t always mean harmony. Sometimes it means a shared adversary.
<h2>Learning From a Silent Beast</h2>
If Krause represented the tension within the Bulls organization, Dennis Rodman represented something entirely different, a quiet, relentless standard of professional excellence that left a permanent mark on everyone around him.
Robinson asked Caffey about the mental preparation required to play alongside Rodman&rsquo;s unique and electrifying personality. The answer was both surprising and deeply instructive.
&ldquo;Dennis was a great guy to learn up under. He didn&rsquo;t say three words the whole year but, one of the first guys at practice, he&rsquo;s gonna ride the elliptical an hour before practice. He&rsquo;s gonna practice the ENTIRE practice.&rdquo;
Caffey, a young power forward trying to earn his place among legends, described practically having to beg Rodman to step off the floor so he could get reps with the first string. The image is remarkable, a future champion so consumed by preparation that his teammates had to negotiate for practice time. Rodman&rsquo;s silence wasn&rsquo;t disengagement. It was a focus.
Now 52, Caffey credits that experience directly for his continued commitment to physical fitness. The lessons absorbed from Rodman, Jordan, and Pippen didn&rsquo;t expire when the final buzzer sounded on the dynasty. They became a life philosophy.
<h2>The Trade That Stung</h2>
Perhaps no moment in Caffey&rsquo;s career carries more emotional weight than his 1998 trade to the Golden State Warriors, a move that arrived just before the Bulls pursued what would become their sixth and final championship of the decade.
What made the departure sting even more was what happened behind the scenes. Both Michael Jordan and Dennis Rodman publicly advocated for Caffey to remain in Chicago, a gesture that clearly still resonates deeply with the veteran forward.
&ldquo;It was awesome that my teammates trusted me at that time and they wanted me on the team. For him to step up and speak on my behalf in a good manner really made me feel proud of myself.&rdquo;
In a dynasty defined by Jordan&rsquo;s will and Krause&rsquo;s calculated maneuvering, having the greatest player in the world go to bat for you meant everything. For Jason Caffey, that loyalty is the championship he still carries with him.

Jason Caffey reflects on his time with the Chicago Bulls, Jerry Krause, and the trade that prevented a third championship.

Jason Caffey on Bulls Dynasty & Costly Trade

The San Antonio Spurs have been playing one of their best basketball stretches this season, winning 18 of their last 20 games, and they are now back in familiar territory. The Spurs have won 50 games or more again for the first time since the 2016-17 season, and the conversation for the team has shifted into something far more serious.
The San Antonio Spurs are no longer a feel-good story. They are no longer just a young team figuring things out or a rebuilding group showing flashes. That last 50-win team was elite, built around Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge while still anchored by the championship DNA of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili. That group knew how to win, knew how to execute, and most importantly, knew how to close games when everything slowed down.
This current Spurs team has been reincarnated from the same success. But this time, only younger, and still evolving. Yet somehow, the results are starting to look familiar.
The ball is moving and the defense is connected, just the way Spurs basketball is supposed to be played. The confidence is growing with every win. There is a rhythm to how they play, a sense of control that does not always show up in the standings but becomes obvious when you watch them over a stretch of games.
So the question now becomes unavoidable. Can the Spurs actually go out and win it all this season?
<h3>A foundation built on something rare</h3>
There are flashes of greatness with this team that go beyond typical rebuilding success. This is not just about stacking wins or overachieving expectations but rather about identity, and more importantly, sustainability.
San Antonio is playing a brand of basketball that feels both modern and timeless. They prioritize ball movement, spacing, and trust. They currently rank near the top of the league in assists per game, a clear reflection of their commitment to finding the best shot rather than forcing one.
Even with a generational talent leading the way, they are actively avoiding hero ball by design. Possessions rarely end with isolation-heavy sets unless absolutely necessary. Instead, the ball swings, players cut, and defenses are forced to rotate until something breaks.
That balance is what makes this team dangerous, and it is also what makes them historically unique.
The Spurs are on the verge of something rarely seen in NBA history. <a href="https://x.com/SpursReporter/status/2033475088729706608?s=20">They are close to becoming the only team to sustain eight players averaging double figures over a full season since the 1981-82 Denver Nuggets.</a> That Nuggets team became the gold standard for high-powered offense, averaging a league-record 126.5 points per game while embodying the idea that everybody eats.
San Antonio is knocking on that door. That kind of depth changes everything when the playoffs arrive. It gives them multiple counters, gives them flexibility, and it allows them to survive off nights from their stars because someone else can step up and carry the load. That is not common for a team this young, and what makes them a contender heading into the playoffs.
<h3>Victor Wembanyama is already that guy</h3>
At the center of it all is Victor Wembanyama.
There is no longer a need to temper expectations or speak in hypotheticals. He is a once-in-a-generation player, and more importantly, he is already playing like someone capable of leading a championship team.
At just 22 years old, Wembanyama is putting up numbers that place him firmly in the MVP conversation. He scores efficiently, protects the rim at an elite level, and continues to expand his offensive arsenal with every passing month.
His impact goes beyond scoring or defense. He alters games in ways that cannot always be captured in the box score. Opponents change their shot selection because he is on the floor. Guards hesitate on drives, and bigs are forced away from their comfort zones.
He is the type of player every contender wants. A player who can take over when necessary, but also elevate everyone around him.
That is the key difference, because Wembanyama does not just dominate. He fits within a system that empowers others, which makes the Spurs far less predictable and far more difficult to scheme against in a playoff setting.
And when the game slows down, when possessions tighten and defenses lock in, having a player who can create something out of nothing becomes invaluable. Wembanyama is already that kind of player.
<h3>A supporting cast that fits perfectly</h3>
Championship teams are never built on one player alone. What makes this Spurs team intriguing is how well the pieces around Wembanyama complement his strengths, both stylistically and mentally.
De&rsquo;Aaron Fox gives them a legitimate second star. His speed, shot creation, and ability to collapse defenses provide a different dimension to the offense. He can push the pace, create advantages early in possessions, and attack gaps before defenses are set.
More importantly, Fox knows how to handle pressure. He has been through playoff battles. He understands what it takes to execute late in games when every possession matters.
Devin Vassell continues to be one of the most reliable scorers on the roster. His midrange game is automatic, and his ability to space the floor as a catch-and-shoot threat makes him an ideal fit alongside both Fox and Wembanyama. He thrives in the gaps created by their gravity.
Stephon Castle has quickly established himself as a defensive anchor on the perimeter. He takes on the toughest assignments nightly and continues to grow offensively, showing more confidence as a slasher while steadily improving his jump shot.
Dylan Harper has been impactful from day one. As a rookie, his ability to attack the rim adds pressure to opposing defenses, and his development trajectory suggests he will be a key piece not just now, but for years to come.
Around them, the Spurs have built a roster filled with purpose.
Julian Champagnie and Harrison Barnes provide consistent shooting from the wings and corners, giving the offense the spacing it needs to operate at a high level. Their presence forces defenses to stay honest, opening driving lanes for Castle, Fox and Harper.
Keldon Johnson brings relentless energy off the bench. He plays with urgency, attacks the rim with force, and serves as the emotional heartbeat of the team. His willingness to embrace a bench role speaks volumes about the culture being built in San Antonio.
Luke Kornet offers stability as a backup big. He understands his role, plays within the system, and brings the experience of a champion, which can be valuable in moments when composure is needed.
Carter Bryant has quietly emerged as a hidden gem. He can defend multiple positions and knock down open shots, giving the Spurs another versatile piece in their rotation.
This is functional depth for the Spurs where every player has a role, and every role has value. More importantly, every player understands where they fit within the bigger picture, a usual recipe of success for a championship team.
<h3>The numbers are starting to align</h3>
For years, there has been a simple benchmark used to identify true contenders. The 40-20 rule.
Teams that reach 40 wins before 20 losses historically have a strong chance of competing for a championship. The Spurs have met that criteria, placing them firmly in the conversation with the league&rsquo;s elite.
As mentioned, they have also secured their first 50-win season since 2016-17, a reminder of the franchise&rsquo;s sustained excellence during its peak years. That stretch of 18 consecutive 50-win seasons remains one of the most remarkable runs in NBA history, and it set a standard that this new group is now trying to live up to.
After years of losing after their golden age, this season feels like the beginning of something new, yet strangely familiar. It speaks to the growth of their young core, and it reflects the internal development of players who have embraced their roles and elevated their games.
It also highlights the impact of head coach Mitch Johnson. Taking over in a post-Gregg Popovich era is no easy task. The expectations are different, the pressure is constant, and the comparisons are inevitable. Yet Johnson has managed to guide this group with clarity and confidence, maintaining the Spurs&rsquo; identity while adapting to the strengths of a new generation. He has done more than just keep the system intact &ndash; he has evolved it and fine tuned it for the foreseeable future.
<h3>The upcoming playoff reality check</h3>
However, even for all the reasons to believe, there are still questions that cannot be ignored.&nbsp;
The playoffs are a different environment. The pace slows down. Possessions become more valuable. Execution becomes everything.
And that is where experience often separates contenders from champions.
The Spurs are still young. Wembanyama may be playing at an MVP level, but this will be his first true playoff run with real expectations. The same goes for much of the roster. Fox and Kornet bring experience, but beyond them, this group has not been tested deep into the postseason.
That raises an important question. How will their inexperience show up when the stakes are at their highest?
Will their ball movement hold up against elite defenses that are specifically game-planning to take away their strengths? Playoff opponents will scout every action, every tendency, every preferred spot on the floor.
Will the Spurs be able to adjust on the fly when their first option is taken away? Or will they struggle when forced into late-clock situations where individual shot creation becomes necessary?
There is also the matter of their role players. During the regular season, depth wins games. Over an 82-game stretch, having multiple contributors averaging double figures is a luxury. But in the playoffs, rotations tighten, and the margin for error shrinks.
Will those same role players continue to produce when minutes become more defined and defensive intensity rises? Or will the Spurs find themselves needing more from their top-end talent than they have relied on so far? These are the questions that only the postseason can answer.
<h3>The narrative question that could define them</h3>
Beyond the X&rsquo;s and O&rsquo;s, there is another layer to this conversation. Every championship team has a defining narrative. Some teams are built through adversity. Others are driven by redemption. Some rise through experience after repeated failures.
The Spurs are still writing their story.&nbsp;
Are they a team that is arriving ahead of schedule, simply enjoying a breakthrough season before taking the next step in the coming years? Or are they a group that is ready right now, capable of skipping the usual timeline and capturing a title earlier than expected?
Then, there is also the pressure of expectation. At the start of the season, there was no burden. Every win felt like progress. Every loss was part of the process.
That has changed since then. Now, there is something at stake. Now, there is something to lose. How they handle that shift could define their postseason, because belief can shift a series. Confidence can change outcomes, and sometimes, a team that does not know it is supposed to wait ends up winning sooner than anyone predicted.
<h3>Can they actually do it and win it all?</h3>
On paper, the Spurs have the ingredients. They have a generational superstar playing at an MVP level. They have a second star who complements him. They have depth, shooting, defense, and a system that emphasizes trust and unselfishness.
They have momentum, they have belief, but championships are not won on paper. They are earned through experience, execution, and resilience under pressure.
The Spurs are close &ndash; closer than anyone expected this early in their timeline. Whether they are ready to take that final step this season remains the biggest question in the league. And that is what makes them one of the most fascinating teams to watch as the playoffs approach.
Because if everything clicks, if their identity holds, and if their young core rises to the moment, this may not just be the start of something special: it could be the moment it all comes through and arrives, and it is theirs for the taking.

The San Antonio Spurs are surging behind Victor Wembanyama and elite depth, but are they truly ready to win an NBA title this season?

Can the Spurs go out and win it all?

Some stories from the golden era of the NBA exist in that fascinating space between confirmed history and beloved lore,&nbsp; too detailed to be invented, too strange to be mundane. The tale of what happened in an elevator at the 1998 NBA All-Star Game in New York City sits squarely in that territory. It involves a teenager named <a href="https://rg.org/news/basketball/phil-handy-jordan-kobe-lebron-goat-debate">Kobe Bryant</a>, a 270-pound veteran named Jayson Williams, a near-brawl in an enclosed space, and the intervention of a man who would eventually become the 45th and 47th President of the United States.
The confined space of an elevator is the last place you want to be when a 270-pound professional athlete decides he has been disrespected enough. According to Williams's account, one he has told many times over the years with the kind of vivid detail that only a born storyteller can summon, that is exactly where things stood between him and a young Kobe Bryant during All-Star Weekend at Madison Square Garden.
A Future President Steps Between Two Giants
Williams reportedly swung at Bryant, and what started as a locker room tension between a veteran who felt disrespected and a teenager who refused to back down threatened to become something far worse. This is where the story takes its most improbable turn. Donald Trump, then a New York fixture and real estate mogul who had turned celebrity into its own kind of currency, did not step back. He stepped in.
Trump later confirmed the incident during an interview with Jake Paul, offering a characteristically direct account of what happened. "That was a long time ago. Yeah, well I was breaking up a fight, which sometimes is more dangerous than being in a fight," Trump said. "But I like Kobe. Kobe was having a hard time with somebody, and it worked out fine. But yeah, I broke it up,&nbsp; probably not a smart thing to do. Historically, it's never good to break up fights."
According to the account that has circulated since, Trump physically grabbed Williams and told Bryant to get out. The elevator doors opened. Kobe walked. A potential disaster for the NBA's rising star, a teenager still finding his footing in the league, was averted in one of the most unlikely moments in sports history.
"I was breaking up a fight, which sometimes is more dangerous than being in a fight... I like Kobe. Kobe was having a hard time with somebody, and it worked out fine." <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/03/14/sports/donald-trump-confirms-breaking-up-fight-involving-kobe-bryant/">said Donald Trump</a>
<h2>Charles Oakley, the Witness Who Doesn't Quite Remember</h2>
Every great piece of basketball lore needs a credible voice to place it in context, and Charles Oakley, one of the toughest and most respected players of that era, provides exactly that, even if his account comes with a caveat. Oakley, speaking with Yahoo Sports, was measured: he doesn't personally recall being in the elevator that day, but he has absolutely heard the story, told by Williams himself, on multiple occasions to multiple people.
"He had told it to some people that I was around," <a href="https://scoopb.com/2026/03/exclusive-the-night-trump-saved-kobe-inside-the-1998-elevator-brawl-with-untold-accounts-from-jayson-williams-and-charles-oakley/">Oakley said to Brandon 'Scoop B' Robinson</a>&nbsp;"Jayson, he liked to be a story. He's a storyteller. I told him, 'Jayson, I mean, you 55, 57. You probably told that story 50 times.'" When I spoke with Oakley separately, he echoed that sentiment. While he couldn't personally account for the specifics of the elevator incident, he was quick to note that Williams tells it with extraordinary conviction and color. "Jayson is an awesome storyteller who brings these moments to life with incredible detail," Oakley said. That endorsement, from a man who has no incentive to embellish, carries its own weight.
<h2>Jayson Williams and the Locker Room That Made History</h2>
Williams's connection to the 1998 All-Star Game runs deeper than one elevator encounter. He has vivid memories of walking into the locker room at Madison Square Garden and locking eyes with Larry Bird, who was coaching the Eastern Conference that weekend. The history between them stretched back to Williams's second game in the league, when Bird, still active and relentless, had torched him for 45 points while repeatedly demanding that the coach put the rookie back in so he could keep going.
"He just looked at me and said 'Your minutes are on the board'... And I said 'Thanks Coach' and he goes 'You f---n' rookie!' This is Larry Bird and he remembered that for 25 years!" Williams said. "He's one of the biggest and best smack talkers but he can back it up. All the time though!"
And then there was Michael Jordan, the loudest presence in a room full of legends. Williams describes Jordan's energy that day as laser-focused and entirely intentional: MJ was announcing to anyone who would listen that he wanted the ball every single possession. "He was coming in there letting us all know that he wasn't going to take the ball out because you know in the All-Star Game when you take the ball out you don't get it back," Williams explained. "He's MJ baby! He's the best who ever did it."
<h2>Why This Story Still Matters</h2>
The 1998 NBA All-Star Game produced a box score and a winner. But the stories that live from that weekend, a future president breaking up a fight in an elevator, Larry Bird's long memory for a rookie he once torched, Michael Jordan manufacturing motivation in real time, are the ones that remind you why the human element of professional basketball is as compelling as anything that happens between the lines.
Jayson Williams may have told the elevator story fifty times. But fifty tellings of a story this strange, this specific, and this perfectly placed at the intersection of basketball and American history is not repetition. It is preservation. And now it belongs to the record.

A veteran who felt disrespected. A teenager who refused to back down. A future president who stepped into the middle of it. The story of one of the NBA's most surreal untold moments — set against the electric backdrop of Madison Square Garden in 1998.

Donald Trump Stopped Kobe Bryant–Jayson Williams Elevator Fight (1998 NBA All-Star)

The term &ldquo;3-and-D&rdquo; has long been one of the most valuable archetypes in modern basketball. It refers to players who can knock down the three-pointer consistently while also defending at a high level on the perimeter. The idea was never just about specialists who could only do one thing. True 3-and-D players were those who could space the floor offensively while also holding their ground defensively against elite scorers.
That role defined Danny Green&rsquo;s career.
Green built a reputation as one of the most reliable players in that mold. A three-time NBA champion with the San Antonio Spurs, Toronto Raptors, and Los Angeles Lakers, he became known for his ability to stretch defenses with timely three-point shooting while also guarding the opposing team&rsquo;s best perimeter player.
During championship runs, Green&rsquo;s value often came from the balance he provided. Offensively, his shooting forced defenses to stay honest and opened space for star teammates to attack. Defensively, his discipline and positioning allowed him to take on difficult assignments without sacrificing team structure.
According to Green, players who truly excel in both areas have become less common.
&ldquo;We don&rsquo;t see it as often as we used to,&rdquo; he said, reflecting on the classic definition of the 3-and-D role.
Green recently visited the Philippines as part of an initiative to support local partnerships and fan engagement in collaboration with NBA Store PH. During the visit, he interacted with fans and discussed various aspects of the modern game, including how the role he once thrived in has evolved.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
3x NBA champion (Spurs, Raptors, Lakers) Danny Green is in the Philippines to support local partner engagements and interact with fans <a href="https://twitter.com/basketbllnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@basketbllnews</a> <a href="https://t.co/4Kjp7XnMDv">pic.twitter.com/4Kjp7XnMDv</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/2032392344079876556?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote>

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In today&rsquo;s NBA, the game has shifted toward more ball-dominant creators and versatile offensive engines. Many players are asked to do more than simply space the floor and defend. They initiate offense, handle the ball in pick-and-roll situations, and create their own scoring opportunities. While that versatility is valuable, it has also blurred the lines of what a traditional 3-and-D player looks like.
Despite that shift, Green pointed out that there are still players in the league who embody the spirit of the role, even if their responsibilities extend beyond it.
Among the names he mentioned were Jaylen Brown, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cade Cunningham, and Victor Wembanyama, and each of those players fits the description in different ways.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
3-time NBA champion Danny Green on who he thinks are the top 3-and-D players in the NBA today: &ldquo;Jaylen Brown, SGA, Cade Cunningham, all these guys that we watch that are MVP candidates, Victor Wembanyama.&rdquo; <a href="https://twitter.com/basketbllnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@basketbllnews</a> <a href="https://t.co/wbECdJ8E8K">pic.twitter.com/wbECdJ8E8K</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/2032407708004139228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote>

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Brown has built his reputation as one of the league&rsquo;s premier two-way wings. He can score at all three levels while also defending multiple positions with physicality and athleticism. His ability to knock down perimeter shots while guarding top wings reflects the modern evolution of the 3-and-D role.
Gilgeous-Alexander, while primarily known for his offensive brilliance, has also developed into a disruptive defender with strong instincts and length. Cunningham&rsquo;s size and versatility at the guard position allow him to contribute defensively while spacing the floor when needed. Wembanyama represents perhaps the most unique version of the concept, combining elite rim protection with the ability to stretch the floor from beyond the arc.
What these players represent is the modern version of the archetype. They are not limited to standing in the corner waiting for a kick-out pass or focusing solely on defensive assignments. Instead, they incorporate shooting and defense into a broader skill set that includes playmaking and scoring creation.
Green&rsquo;s perspective carries weight because he spent more than a decade mastering the role at the highest level. His shooting helped swing playoff games, and his defense allowed championship teams to maintain balance on both ends of the floor.
The league may be evolving, but the core value of the 3-and-D concept remains the same. Players who can space the floor while defending at a high level will always be essential pieces for winning teams.
Even if the role looks different today, its importance has not disappeared. According to Green, the players who can truly do both at an elite level are still among the most valuable in the game.

Danny Green discusses the evolution of the 3-and-D role, saying the archetype is less common today.

“We don’t see it as often than we used to”: Danny Green cites elite 3-and-D guys

NBA point-guard icon Chris Paul has announced his retirement from professional basketball, bringing an end to a 21-season NBA career that saw him cement his place among the greatest floor generals in league history.
Paul confirmed his decision Friday in a heartfelt social-media post, stepping away from the game after spanning three decades on the hardwood.&nbsp;
A 12-time NBA All-Star and nine-time All-Defensive Team selection, Paul &ndash; also known as the &ldquo;Point God&rdquo; &ndash; wrote, &ldquo;This is it! After over 21 years I&rsquo;m stepping away from basketball,&rdquo; reflecting on a career defined by leadership, competitiveness and consistency.&nbsp;
Drafted fourth overall by the New Orleans Hornets in 2005, Paul quickly emerged as one of the league&rsquo;s premier guards, earning Rookie of the Year honors and establishing himself as a perennial All-Star early in his career. Over 1,370 games, he averaged 16.8 points, 9.2 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game, ranking second all-time in both assists (12,552) and steals (2,728) behind only John Stockton.&nbsp;
Paul&rsquo;s impressive resume includes:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">12 NBA All-Star selections</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">11 All-NBA team honors</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nine All-Defensive team honors</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Two Olympic gold medals</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">NBA 75th Anniversary Team</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">First to reach 20,000 points and 10,000 assists &ndash; a milestone since matched only by LeBron James and Russell Westbrook.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Despite never capturing an NBA title &ndash; coming closest with the Phoenix Suns in the 2021 Finals &ndash; Paul&rsquo;s influence spanned far beyond championship hardware, earning admiration for his craft, basketball IQ and leadership.&nbsp;
Paul&rsquo;s final campaign was marked by unexpected twists. After signing with the Los Angeles Clippers for his 21st season, his time with the team ended abruptly as the franchise moved on in December amid struggles and reported disagreements. He was subsequently traded to the Toronto Raptors near the deadline but never suited up before being waived &ndash; prompting his retirement announcement shortly after.&nbsp;
In his retirement announcement, Paul touched on the emotional weight of the decision, saying he felt grateful for the journey and excited for what comes next off the court, particularly spending more time with his family.&nbsp;
Paul exits the game as one of the most influential and respected point guards in NBA history. His ability to control games, elevate teammates and consistently impact winning basketball across multiple franchises &ndash; from New Orleans and Los Angeles to Phoenix, Houston, Oklahoma City, Golden State and San Antonio &ndash; has left an indelible mark on the league&rsquo;s modern era.&nbsp;
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver hailed Paul as &ldquo;one of the greatest point guards in league history and a true steward of our sport,&rdquo; praising not only his on-court brilliance but also his leadership, including his tenure as NBA Players Association President.&nbsp;
As Chris Paul transitions away from playing, conversations already swirl about his imminent Hall of Fame induction &ndash; a fitting tribute to a career spent redefining what excellence and longevity look like at the point guard position.

Chris Paul announces his retirement from the NBA after 21 seasons, concluding a Hall-of-Fame career.

Chris Paul officially retires after 21 NBA seasons

The NBA has officially unveiled the full participant lists for the 2026 All-Star Weekend, giving fans a complete look at the stars headed to the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, from Feb. 13-15. This year&rsquo;s festivities &ndash; highlighted by a unique USA vs. World round-robin All-Star Game format &ndash; will feature perennial All-Stars, breakout performers and standout event competitors in a celebration of the league&rsquo;s top talent.&nbsp;
Leading the headlines, Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram has been named as a replacement for Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry on the USA Stripes roster after Curry was ruled out due to a lingering right knee injury. The absence of the two-time All-Star Game MVP &ndash; who had been selected for his 12th All-Star appearance &ndash; opens the door for Ingram&rsquo;s second career selection, his first since 2020.&nbsp;
On the international side, Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun will take the place of Oklahoma City Thunder guard and reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on Team World after Gilgeous-Alexander was sidelined with an abdominal injury. Sengun&rsquo;s addition marks his second consecutive All-Star nod and adds another high-octane playmaker to the World lineup.&nbsp;
Under this season&rsquo;s format, the All-Star Game breaks from the traditional East vs. West matchup and instead will feature three teams &ndash; two representing the United States and one made up of international talent &ndash; competing in a round-robin slate of four 12-minute games before the two best teams square off in a championship matchup.&nbsp;
The USA squads are anchored by the league&rsquo;s brightest names. Veterans such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard and Jaylen Brown headline the USA rosters alongside rising stars including Anthony Edwards, Cade Cunningham and Tyrese Maxey. Meanwhile, the World team showcases global stars like Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama &ndash; with Sengun now joining that group.&nbsp;
All-Star Saturday will also feature the State Farm Three-Point Contest, Slam Dunk Contest and additional skills competitions &ndash; giving a diverse cast of sharpshooters, high-flyers and playmakers multiple stages to shine before the main event kicks off.&nbsp;
This year&rsquo;s roster announcements arrive at a pivotal point in the NBA season. With teams locked in tight playoff races and narratives building around emerging stars, All-Star Weekend doubles as both a celebration and a barometer. For Ingram, logging All-Star minutes after stepping in for Curry could be a springboard into wider MVP conversations. And for Sengun, joining the World team again &ndash; especially in place of an MVP calibre guard &ndash; reinforces his rising status on the global stage.&nbsp;
Injuries to marquee players rarely dampen excitement in All-Star festivities, but they add an undercurrent of unpredictability &ndash; a reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in a 2-plus-month sprint to the playoffs.
As rosters are finalized and events approach, All-Star Weekend promises to flare into one of the most compelling showcases of the season &ndash; both in terms of star power and emerging momentum headed into the home stretch.

This year’s festivities will feature perennial All-Stars, breakout performers and standout event competitors.

NBA sets complete 2026 All-Star Weekend roster; Ingram and Sengun named as replacements

As the 2026 NBA trade deadline came and went without a blockbuster move for two of the league&rsquo;s biggest stars, Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo remained with their respective teams &ndash; despite heavy speculation that either could be dealt before the NBA trade deadline.
Milwaukee opted not to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo as the deadline expired, keeping the two-time MVP with the Bucks for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. Reports indicate that while there was significant interest from teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks and Miami Heat, no offer met Milwaukee&rsquo;s steep asking price &ndash; which reportedly included elite young talent and multiple first-round picks.&nbsp;
The 31-year-old superstar has spent his entire 13-year NBA career with the Bucks, leading them to an NBA championship in 2021. Despite the franchise&rsquo;s struggles this season, Giannis remains under contract and committed to Milwaukee through the deadline, even amid ongoing speculation about his future beyond this campaign.&nbsp;
Two-time All-Star Ja Morant was also the subject of trade rumors up to deadline day &ndash; with teams like the Kings, Timberwolves and Heat reportedly showing interest &ndash; but no serious offer materialized that both Memphis and prospective suitors could agree on.&nbsp;
Morant, 26, has missed time this season with an elbow injury and has seen his market value fluctuate as a result, factors that played into the Grizzlies ultimately retaining him rather than concluding a deadline deal.&nbsp;
For Milwaukee, keeping Giannis keeps the franchise centerpiece in place, but it also raises questions about the team&rsquo;s direction, given its current standing and playoff aspirations.&nbsp;
For Memphis, Morant&rsquo;s future is still unresolved and a broader roster shakeup is already underway. Retaining him now positions Memphis to re-evaluate its rebuild and potentially revisit his status in the offseason.

Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo remained with their respective teams – despite heavy speculation of a trade.

Ja Morant, Giannis Antetokounmpo stay put in the NBA’s trade deadline

The NBA has officially unveiled the full rosters for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, marking another milestone in this season&rsquo;s midseason showcase.&nbsp;
With the league&rsquo;s annual celebration of its stars set for Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, fans now know exactly who will take part in the new USA vs. World round-robin format &ndash; featuring two U.S. teams and one international squad competing in 12-minute games before a championship finale.
The roster are set as follows:
<h4>Team USA Stripes</h4>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Stephen Curry &ndash; Golden State Warriors</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">LeBron James &ndash; Los Angeles Lakers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kevin Durant &ndash; Houston Rockets</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kawhi Leonard &ndash; Los Angeles Clippers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jaylen Brown &ndash; Boston Celtics</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jalen Brunson &ndash; New York Knicks</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Donovan Mitchell &ndash; Cleveland Cavaliers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Norman Powell &ndash; Miami Heat&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h4>Team USA Stars</h4>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anthony Edwards &ndash; Minnesota Timberwolves</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Devin Booker &ndash; Phoenix Suns</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cade Cunningham &ndash; Detroit Pistons</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tyrese Maxey &ndash; Philadelphia 76ers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scottie Barnes &ndash; Toronto Raptors</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jalen Duren &ndash; Detroit Pistons</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chet Holmgren &ndash; Oklahoma City Thunder</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jalen Johnson &ndash; Atlanta Hawks&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h4>Team World</h4>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Luka Doncic &ndash; Los Angeles Lakers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Giannis Antetokounmpo &ndash; Milwaukee Bucks</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander &ndash; Oklahoma City Thunder</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nikola Jokic &ndash; Denver Nuggets</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Victor Wembanyama &ndash; San Antonio Spurs</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pascal Siakam &ndash; Indiana Pacers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jamal Murray &ndash; Denver Nuggets</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Deni Avdija &ndash; Portland Trail Blazers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Karl-Anthony Towns &ndash; New York Knicks&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
The starters were voted in by a combination of fans (50 %), NBA players (25 %), and media (25 %) while the reserves were selected by NBA head coaches.
Commissioner Adam Silver and the league office added Kawhi Leonard to the U.S. roster pool after strong midseason play and fan-driven support.&nbsp;
This year&rsquo;s format diverges significantly from traditional East vs. West competition by introducing three distinct All-Star teams &ndash; highlighting both U.S. talent and the international flavor of today&rsquo;s NBA.
With rosters now set, All-Star Weekend will also feature the Castrol Rising Stars Game, Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, and a slate of skills competitions and performances leading up to the main event. The round-robin USA vs. World tournament is designed to add competitive intrigue and showcase global NBA stars on the league&rsquo;s biggest midseason stage.

The NBA has officially unveiled the full rosters for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.

2026 NBA All-Star Game rosters revealed ahead of USA vs World showcase

Two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo is reportedly &lsquo;ready for a new home&rsquo; as the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline approaches, with the Milwaukee Bucks beginning to listen to trade offers for the franchise icon, league sources tell ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.&nbsp;
According to the latest reports, several rival teams have made &ldquo;aggressive offers&rdquo; for Giannis, and while the Bucks haven&rsquo;t made a deal yet, their front office is more open than ever to entertaining proposals before the deadline or later in the offseason.&nbsp;
This report likely confirms that Giannis is ready for change and has informed Milwaukee that he believes the moment has come to part ways after more than 12 years with the franchise, making a potential trade more likely.&nbsp;
Milwaukee is reportedly willing to listen and engage with offers, though it remains cautious &ndash; indicating that it could postpone a trade until the offseason if the right package isn&rsquo;t on the table before Feb. 5.&nbsp;
Sources say the Bucks are seeking blue-chip young talent and a surplus of draft picks in any deal for the superstar forward, reflecting his elite value and impact.&nbsp;
While no deal is imminent, teams such as the New York Knicks and Miami Heat have been mentioned among those making offers, with league insiders noting that Milwaukee&rsquo;s willingness to engage could accelerate talks. The San Antonio Spurs and the Golden State Warriors have been linked to the forward as well.
Giannis&rsquo; reported openness to exploring a new situation reflects broader questions about the Bucks&rsquo; direction this season, especially with the team struggling and sitting outside the playoff picture. His eventual destination could reshape the league&rsquo;s balance of power if a blockbuster trade materializes.
With the trade deadline just days away, the Bucks and Antetokounmpo will likely continue discussions both internally and with potential suitors. If a trade doesn&rsquo;t happen by Feb. 5, talks could resume in the offseason as Milwaukee weighs its options with maximum flexibility &ndash; including what kind of return they can command for a generational talent.

Two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo is reportedly ‘ready for a new home’ as the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline approaches.

Giannis Antetokounmpo ‘ready to find new home’; Bucks listening to offers

The Golden State Warriors dynasty appears to be entering its final stretch, with time, injuries, and uncertainty all converging at once.
Stephen Curry is now 37, approaching 38, and while his game has aged gracefully, the margin for error around him has grown razor-thin. Over the past several seasons, Golden State&rsquo;s championship hopes have repeatedly been derailed by injuries &ndash; many of them coming at the worst possible moments.
It began in 2019, when the Warriors were chasing a historic three-peat. Kevin Durant tore his Achilles during the NBA Finals against Toronto, followed shortly by Klay Thompson&rsquo;s ACL injury. What followed was a lost 2020 season, then another setback when Curry broke his hand just a few games into the year. As Thompson worked his way back, misfortune struck again &ndash; this time an Achilles tear that delayed his return even further.
The injury cycle never truly stopped. Last season, De&rsquo;Anthony Melton had been playing well alongside Curry in the backcourt before suffering a torn ACL, and from there, things unraveled quickly. In the playoffs, after Golden State rode the momentum of yet another series win over Houston, Curry suffered a hamstring strain that sidelined him against the Timberwolves. Without him, the Warriors were eliminated.
Most recently, another devastating blow landed. Jimmy Butler tore his ACL, costing Golden State its second star next to Curry and dealing a major hit to whatever remained of its title aspirations.
All of it underscores a harsh reality: time is running out. There are no guarantees in today&rsquo;s NBA, and opportunities to win championships are fleeting &ndash; especially for an aging superstar, no matter how great.
Curry continues to do his part. He just dropped 38 points and drilled eight three-pointers against Dallas, another reminder that he can still take over games and perform at a championship level. But nights like that have increasingly felt isolated, surrounded by questions about whether the supporting cast is good enough to contend.
The uncertainty extends beyond the roster. Klay Thompson is no longer there. Butler is sidelined. Steve Kerr has just one year left on his contract. Draymond Green is getting older and showing signs of decline. Meanwhile, the front office remains caught between timelines, holding onto young pieces rather than fully committing to moves that could immediately maximize Curry&rsquo;s remaining prime.
That&rsquo;s what makes this moment feel different. Curry is still capable of being the best player on a title team. He&rsquo;s shown it time and time again, but without sufficient help and without a clear organizational direction, the window that defined one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history appears to be closing.
And for a player who has given everything to the franchise, that reality is as difficult as it is unavoidable.

As Steph Curry continues to perform at an elite level, injuries, aging stars, and uncertainty signal that the Warriors’ dynasty is ending.

Stephen Curry, Warriors dynasty nearing its end

Stephen Curry has once again demonstrated his massive global appeal, earning the top spot on the NBA&rsquo;s Top-Selling Jersey list for the first half of the 2025-26 regular season, the league announced.&nbsp;
Based on sales from NBAStore.com and Fanatics&rsquo; network, Curry&rsquo;s Warriors No. 30 jersey leads all players across the league on the retail front.
The announcement, made jointly by the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, also revealed that the Los Angeles Lakers are the No. 1 team in merchandise sales, reflecting the enduring popularity of the Lakers brand and its star power among fans.
Golden State&rsquo;s sharpshooter holds the No. 1 position even amid fierce competition from other high-profile stars, including Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson, who also rank near the top of the league&rsquo;s best-selling jerseys.
Curry&rsquo;s popularity has translated into a consistent commercial presence &ndash; and his No. 30 remains one of the most recognizable NBA jerseys worldwide. His placement atop the sales list underscores how his enduring excellence on the court continues to drive fan interest off it as well.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers lead all NBA teams in merchandise sales through the first half of the 2025-26 campaign. The Lakers&rsquo; strong retail performance reflects both the global brand cachet of the franchise and the combination of star attractions on and off the court.&nbsp;
From jerseys to hats and other apparel, Lakers gear continues to fly off shelves &ndash; driven by broad fan support and the team&rsquo;s cultural influence.
Alongside Curry and the Lakers, several other top talents &ndash; including Doncic, Brunson, Victor Wembanyama, LeBron James and more &ndash; populate the league&rsquo;s best-selling jersey rankings, showcasing a mix of established icons and rising stars connecting with fans.
The data also highlights how jersey sales often mirror fan engagement and social media buzz: stars who dominate conversation and highlight reels tend to draw stronger retail demand, fueling overall league merchandise revenue.&nbsp;
Stephen Curry&rsquo;s reign atop the NBA&rsquo;s jersey sales list &ndash; combined with the Lakers ranking as the top team in merchandise &ndash; reflects not just individual star power but the broader commercial dynamics of the league. With midseason momentum building, both Curry and the Lakers remain central to the NBA&rsquo;s cultural and retail footprint heading into 2026.

Stephen Curry has once again demonstrated his massive global appeal, earning the top spot on the NBA’s Top-Selling Jersey list.

Steph Curry lead NBA in jersey sales; Lakers top team merchandise

Devastating news struck the Golden State Warriors on Monday night as star forward Jimmy Butler suffered a season-ending torn right ACL during their 135-112 win over the Miami Heat at Chase Center, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.&nbsp;
The injury marks one of the most significant blows to the Warriors&rsquo; 2025-26 campaign, who have championship expectations around the core of superstar Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Butler.
Butler went down in the third quarter after catching a pass in the paint and landing awkwardly, immediately clutching his knee and unable to put weight on his leg. After being helped off the court by teammates, an MRI confirmed the worst-case scenario: a torn anterior cruciate ligament, and thus likely ending his season.
The 36-year-old had been a stabilizing force for Golden State this season, averaging 20.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.9 assists on efficient shooting before the injury. He quickly became a key co-star alongside Stephen Curry, uplifting the Warriors&rsquo; offense and contributing to a recent 12-4 stretch and winning the last 4 games that pushed them into the top-6 seed race in the Western Conference.&nbsp;
His absence leaves a significant void &ndash; both in scoring and leadership &ndash; at a critical point of the season, when Golden State had begun building momentum and was inside play-in/playoff positioning. With the trade deadline approaching (Feb. 5) and roster options limited, the Warriors now face tough decisions and ramifications about how to retool around Curry without Butler.
This is the most serious knee injury of Butler&rsquo;s career, which includes past knee issues (such as a meniscus tear and MCL sprain in previous seasons) and his teammates, including Stephen Curry, expressed concern and support after the injury, with the Warriors&rsquo; locker room described as subdued in the aftermath.
Butler&rsquo;s season-ending injury represents a major shift for Golden State. The Warriors were building momentum and finding balance this season, but losing a secondary star and veteran leader could derail their path to deep playoff contention. The situation may also influence how the team approaches the trade deadline, rotation roles, and long-term strategy as they attempt to stay competitive and support Curry&rsquo;s remaining prime years and championship window.

Devastating news struck the Golden State Warriors as star forward Jimmy Butler suffered a season-ending torn right ACL.

Warriors lose Jimmy Butler to season-ending ACL injury

The NBA has officially revealed the starters for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, with the league&rsquo;s brightest stars earning recognition ahead of the midseason showcase scheduled for Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The starters were announced during MLK Day&rsquo;s national NBA broadcast on NBC and Peacock.
This year&rsquo;s All-Star Game debuts a new U.S. vs. World format, featuring a three-team round-robin tournament with two U.S. teams and one international team, each playing four 12-minute games before a championship finale.
The Eastern Conference starters are as follows:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks &ndash; 10th All-Star start</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics &ndash; 5th start</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks &ndash; 3rd start</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons &ndash; 2nd start</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers &ndash; 2nd start</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Western Conference starters comprise of:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors &ndash; 12th All-Star appearance</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers &ndash; 6th start</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder &ndash; 4th start</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets &ndash; 8th start</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs &ndash; 2nd start</li>
</ul>
Among the notable storylines for this year&rsquo;s all-star game include:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">LeBron James&rsquo; Starter Streak Ends: For the first time since 2004, LeBron James will not be named an All-Star starter, ending a historic 21-year streak due in part to injury and missed time this season. He missed the first 14 games of this year due to a sciatica injury.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Voting Structure: Starters were selected based on a combined vote &ndash; 50% fans, 25% media, 25% NBA players &ndash; with reserves to be named by head coaches later.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">USA vs. World Format: With starters now set, the league will assign players to the USA and World teams in the coming weeks as part of the revamped All-Star competition designed to spotlight global talent alongside American stars.</li>
</ul>

The NBA has officially revealed the starters for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.

NBA officially announces 2026 All-Star Game starters

Disgruntled Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga has requested a trade away from the Golden State Warriors, according to ESPN reporters Shams Charania and Anthony Slater.
The 6-foot-7 Kuminga has taken a major step in his ongoing contract and role saga by formally requesting a trade on the very first day he became eligible under his current contract.
The 23-year-old &ndash; who signed a two-year, $46.8 million deal this past offseason &ndash; began the season as a starter but has since been benched and left out of the rotation, not appearing in the Warriors&rsquo; last 13 games. Cumulating frustration over his role and diminished playing time appears to have led Kuminga to take the rare step of asking to be moved before the February 5 trade deadline.
Kuminga&rsquo;s situation has been a source of speculation for months. While he and his camp previously negotiated contract terms &ndash; including rejecting earlier offers that lacked a player option and full control &ndash; nothing was resolved in a way that satisfied both sides. The forward&rsquo;s diminished role this season has only added to the tension.
Now that he is trade-eligible &ndash; which only became possible on January 15 under league rules &ndash; Kuminga and the Warriors must navigate the next five weeks of the trade market. Several teams, including the Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks, have already been linked to his name in prior trade speculation, though nothing has materialized yet.
From the Warriors&rsquo; perspective, the goal remains to secure a return that improves the roster around Stephen Curry, with front office sources reportedly eyeing expiring contracts or draft assets rather than long-term salary commitments. But with Kuminga&rsquo;s request now public, the dynamics are likely to shift rapidly as the deadline nears.

Jonathan Kuminga has requested a trade away from the Golden State Warriors, likely ending a long standing saga.

Jonathan Kuminga requests trade out of Golden State

The trade rumors for Michael Porter Jr. have intensified by the day, and several accounts online have pointed out the Golden State Warriors as the favorites to land the Brooklyn Nets forward.
Porter Jr., who is having a career season this year after being traded from the Denver Nuggets, presents as a trade target for many contending teams in the league. A 6-foot-10 forward that can shoot over opponents and offers length on the defensive end at the forward spot, Porter Jr. is the kind of player that teams covet - and it&rsquo;s no surprise that the Warriors have inquired for his services.
In exchange for Porter Jr., the Warriors are reportedly offering young forward Jonathan Kuminga who has fallen out of the rotation for the squad. Kuminga presents a lot of potential as a scoring forward, and he would be likely on the Nets&rsquo; radar with their emphasis on getting younger and developing young talent for their future core.
If the Warriors end up completing this move, Porter Jr. will greatly help with spacing the floor alongside Stephen Curry. He will give Golden State shooting and length at the forward spot since their 2022 championship days, when they still had another Porter, Otto Porter Jr. in the lineup.
Porter Jr. and Curry alongside Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler will form one of the more potent lineups in the league with the fit and playstyles each of them will be providing, and that could push the Warriors to contender status.

The trade rumors for Michael Porter Jr. have intensified, with Golden State being viewed as a potential landing spot.

Trade rumors for Michael Porter Jr. intensify; Warriors viewed as landing spot

The NBA has announced that the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will take part in the 2026 NBA China Games, with both teams set to play a pair of preseason matchups in Macao, China this October.&nbsp;
This announcement marks another step in the league&rsquo;s renewed focus on international outreach following successful exhibitions in the region, following a successful holding of the games last year between the Phoenix Suns and the Brooklyn Nets.
As part of the NBA China Games 2026, Dallas and Houston will face off in two preseason contests on October 9 and October 11 at The Venetian Arena in Macao&rsquo;s Cotai district. These games continue the league&rsquo;s commitment to bringing live NBA action to global audiences after a renewed relationship with Chinese fans and partners.
The week in Macao will go beyond just basketball, with the NBA and co-sponsor Sands China Ltd. planning a range of fan engagement activities, including NBA House events, fan clinics and community outreach programs. The league&rsquo;s presence aims to celebrate basketball culture while fostering deeper connections with fans and aspiring players throughout Asia.
For the Mavericks, the China Games represent an exciting opportunity to showcase their young core while for the Rockets, the trip carries added historical significance given the franchise&rsquo;s longstanding popularity in China dating back to the era of Hall of Famer Yao Ming.

The NBA has announced that the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will take part in the 2026 NBA China Games this October.

Mavericks, Rockets headline 2026 NBA China Games in Macao this October

The 2025 NBA Christmas Day delivered high-level hoops and dramatic finishes across a full slate of five games, with several teams making the holiday spotlight on the national stage.
<h3>Knicks rally to edge Cavaliers in MSG thriller</h3>
The day&rsquo;s action kicked off at Madison Square Garden, where the New York Knicks completed a stunning comeback to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 126-124. Trailing by 17 in the fourth quarter, New York rallied behind Jalen Brunson&rsquo;s 34 points and timely contributions from Tyler Kolek and Jordan Clarkson &ndash; turning a huge deficit into a late lead and Christmas Day victory.
<h3>Spurs dominate Thunder again, go up 3-0 in season series</h3>
In yet another heated Western Conference rivalry, the San Antonio Spurs took down the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder 117-102 in a rematch from just two days ago. De&rsquo;Aaron Fox led San Antonio with 29 points, while Victor Wembanyama added a strong all-around showing off the bench. The win marked another impressive Christmas Day performance for the Spurs and another blemish on the Thunder&rsquo;s otherwise elite season, as they have completely outclassed the defending champs. The Spurs have now won all three games against the Thunder this season, with one more play date to happen in January.
<h3>Warriors outlast Mavericks in Cooper Flagg&rsquo;s Christmas debut</h3>
The Golden State Warriors continued their holiday bliss with a 126-116 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. Stephen Curry led the way with 23 points, including a clutch fourth-quarter three that helped separate the Warriors from Dallas. Jimmy Butler added 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists for the Dubs, who are now on their first three-game win streak this season. Rookie Cooper Flagg starred for the Mavs with 27 points, but Golden State&rsquo;s depth ultimately made the difference. Nevertheless, Flagg showed out in his first-ever Christmas Day game and should be a fixture in the NBA&rsquo;s annual event for years to come if he keeps up his play.
<h3>Rockets roll past Lakers behind Amen, KD</h3>
Over in LA, the Houston Rockets pulled off a dominant 119-96 win over the Los Angeles Lakers. Amen Thompson (26 points) and Kevin Durant (25 points) spearheaded Houston&rsquo;s balanced attack as the Rockets raced out to a big lead and never looked back. The defeat marked another frustrating Christmas Day outing for the Lakers despite Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James playing in the starting lineup.
<h3>Nuggets top Timberwolves in overtime shootout</h3>
In the nightcap, the Denver Nuggets survived a wild overtime battle against the Minnesota Timberwolves, winning 142-138. Nikola Jokić was sensational, recording a historic triple-double with 56 points, 16 rebounds and 15 assists &ndash; one of the greatest individual performances in Christmas Day history. Minnesota&rsquo;s Anthony Edwards dropped 44 points to pace his team in the defeat, after hitting a wild left fading corner triple to tie the game and force overtime.
<h3>THE HIGHLIGHTS:</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">New York&rsquo;s comeback over Cleveland was one of the biggest fourth-quarter rallies of the season.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The Spurs continued their strong trend vs. the Thunder with another decisive win, seemingly being their kryptonite. The Thunder are 26-2 against the entire league, but are 0-3 against the Spurs.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Curry and the Warriors remained a tough holiday matchup, a team that&rsquo;s a fixture in the NBA&rsquo;s annual premier play date.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Houston&rsquo;s balanced scoring showcased the Rockets&rsquo; roster depth, while it showed the Lakers&rsquo; flaws as a team.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jokic&rsquo;s historic triple-double capped off a memorable Christmas slate with one of the best games of the season thus far, including one of the best for Jokic&rsquo;s entire career. It spoiled an otherwise great game for Anthony Edwards, who scored 40 points after his interview with ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania where he said he will be scoring 40 points in Christmas &ndash; and he did.</li>
</ul>

The 2025 NBA Christmas Day delivered high-level hoops and dramatic finishes across a full slate of five games.

2025 NBA Christmas Day: Knicks, Spurs, Warriors, Rockets, Nuggets all take wins

<div>It's rare for young NBA stars to develop without labels. The comparison of every skill, hesitation move, or late-game possession to someone who came before is inevitable.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Cade Cunningham, who is the foundation of the Detroit Pistons' franchise, keeps hearing about Brandon Roy. The comparison is not based on hype or nostalgia. The outcome depends on how Cunningham plays the game.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<h2>Why Brandon Roy&rsquo;s Name Resonates</h2>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Brandon Roy&rsquo;s NBA career was short, but he left a mark that sticks around. When he was on, Roy could do it all&mdash;he&rsquo;d score with ease, attack from either side, and close out games without losing his cool. He didn&rsquo;t need to outrun everybody; he just controlled the tempo and figured out how to get past defenders with smart moves. Cunningham watches Roy, sees what made him special, and wants to play the same way. You can see it in how he approaches the game.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&ldquo;I mean, Brandon Roy, he was a legend in my eyes,&rdquo; <a href="https://r.org/2025/12/19/cade-cunningham-honored-to-hear-brandon-roy-comparisons/">Cunningham said</a>. &ldquo;He was special &mdash; did it all. Both hands, inside, outside game. So to even be compared, I feel honored. I think it&rsquo;s a cool comparison. I&rsquo;ve definitely tried to implement things from his game into mine.&rdquo;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Appreciation is not based on imitation. The objective is to comprehend the principles that made Roy effective and apply them to a contemporary game.</div>
<h2>A Style Built on Feel, Not Flash</h2>
Comparisons can either slow a player down or light a fire under them. Cade Cunningham? He&rsquo;s all about that second one. He studies Roy&rsquo;s moves&mdash;the way he uses his feet, how he waits for the right moment, how he glides into open space. Then Cade takes what he sees and makes it his own.
Someday, people won&rsquo;t bother stacking him up against Brandon Roy. Not because they&rsquo;ve forgotten Roy, but because Cade&rsquo;s carved out his own place, he becomes the measuring stick. For now, being compared to Roy isn&rsquo;t a weight on his shoulders. It&rsquo;s just a nod, and Cade&rsquo;s running with it.
&ldquo;There are similarities,&rdquo;<a href="https://landonbuford.com/brandon-roy-cade-cunningham/"> Roy said</a>, pointing to Cunningham&rsquo;s ability to read defenders and operate in tight spaces.
<h2>Respect From Players Who&rsquo;ve Been There</h2>
The comparison isn&rsquo;t limited to former players on television panels. Current teammates and respected voices around the league echo the same sentiment.
Vince Carter sees long-term greatness.
&ldquo;I like Cade,&rdquo; Carter said. &ldquo;I think he has a chance to be very good, and he&rsquo;s gonna be a perennial All-Star, in my opinion.&rdquo;
Isaiah Stewart, who sees Cunningham daily, emphasized the balance between similarity and individuality.
&ldquo;Cade&rsquo;s game is Cade&rsquo;s game,&rdquo; Stewart said. &ldquo;Smooth operator. You can find some similarities, obviously &mdash; B Roy is B Roy &mdash; but Cade has his own game.&rdquo;
That distinction matters. Roy was often a scorer first. Cunningham leans more naturally into playmaking, comfortable initiating offense and making reads that don&rsquo;t always result in personal stats.
<h2 data-start="2705" data-end="2901">Different Eras, Shared Toughness</h2>
Ryan Hollins offered one of the most layered perspectives, acknowledging both overlap and separation.
&ldquo;They&rsquo;re different players,&rdquo; Hollins said. &ldquo;Brandon Roy was a playmaker who could score. Cade is a natural point guard. But both are uniquely unstoppable.&rdquo;
Hollins also underscored something fans sometimes forget: how dominant Roy truly was before injuries intervened. Being mentioned in the same breath is not casual praise.
<h2 data-start="3200" data-end="3370">Carrying the Comparison Forward</h2>
Cunningham doesn&rsquo;t see the comparison as a burden. He takes it in, sees what he can learn. He watches Roy&rsquo;s footwork, notices his patience, and pays attention to how he moves through space. Then he takes those lessons and makes them his own, folding them into his own style.
Someday, people won&rsquo;t line up Cunningham next to Brandon Roy anymore. Not because they&rsquo;re suddenly so different, but because Cunningham&rsquo;s own track record will be loud enough that nobody needs to make the comparison. Right now, though, the comparison isn&rsquo;t holding him back. It&rsquo;s a nod of respect&mdash;and a reminder that being smart, tough, and in control never really goes out of fashion.
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Cade Cunningham reacts to comparisons with Brandon Roy as NBA veterans praise his poise, control, and evolving impact with the Detroit Pistons.

Cade Cunningham and the Brandon Roy Comparison: Respect Earned, Identity Preserved

Golden State Warriors icon Stephen Curry etched his name further into the NBA record books this week, surpassing Michael Jordan for the most games with 40 or more points by a player age 30 or older.&nbsp;
The feat came as Curry poured in 48 points in a high-octane performance, giving him 45 career 40-point games since his 30th birthday &ndash; one clear of Jordan&rsquo;s previous mark of 44.
At 37 years old, Curry continues to defy conventional aging curves in professional sports, showcasing an elite scoring ability that few in league history have matched late in their careers. His latest scoring outburst included efficient shooting and a barrage of threes, reinforcing his reputation not just as the greatest shooter ever but also as one of the most prolific scorers in longevity terms.
Curry&rsquo;s climb up the all-time list of 40-point games after age 30 has been a major storyline this season, especially as he tied Jordan earlier in the year and then moved past him with this signature performance. The milestone places Curry at the top of a unique statistical category that measures sustained scoring excellence deep into a player&rsquo;s 30s &ndash; a period in which many stars begin to decline.
While the Warriors&rsquo; overall record this season has been mixed, Curry&rsquo;s historic achievement stands as a testament to his individual brilliance and durability. Even as his team navigates wins and losses, his scoring outputs continue to make NBA history and fuel conversations about his long-term legacy.

Warriors icon Stephen Curry added anothe NBA record to books this week, surpassing Michael Jordan for the most games with 40 or more points by a player age 30 or older.

Stephen Curry passes Michael Jordan for most 40+ point games after turning 30

Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is likely to return to the lineup against the OKC Thunder as they are set to play for the 2025 Emirates NBA Cup semifinals, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
Wembanyama missed 12 games due to a calf strain he suffered early in November. The Spurs went 9-3 in those games without him.
This development changes things as one of the brightest young stars in the league returns to face the runaway best team in the NBA in the Thunder, who are currently 24-1 right now, tying the best start in league history set by the 2016 Golden State Warriors.
According to Charania, final clearance will come after today's practice in Las Vegas.
The Spurs and the Thunder meet in the Western semis for the Emirates NBA Cup, while the New York Knicks face the Orlando Magic over at the East for their own semifinal matchup.

Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is likely to return to the lineup against the OKC Thunder in Las Vegas for the Emirates NBA Cup.

Cam