Cougars

As the Phoenix Suns prepare to part ways with Kevin Durant, trade discussions have intensified, centering on three frontrunner destinations: the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
These teams are reportedly Durant&rsquo;s preferred landing spots, with mutual interest and the potential for a lucrative extension in play. Sources close to the situation revealed to Charania that Heat, Spurs, and Rockets have all gained significant traction in negotiations and are considered finalists in the pursuit of the 15-time All-Star.
ANALYSIS: Durant lists Miami as a desirable destination, citing the franchise's culture and strong front office support. The Heat reportedly attempted to acquire him at the trade deadline. While they may lack in draft assets, veteran players like Andrew Wiggins, Kel&rsquo;el Ware, and Duncan Robinson could be key parts of a package.
San Antonio presents an alluring mix: pairing Durant with phenom Victor Wembanyama and rising star De&rsquo;Aaron Fox. With significant draft capital &ndash; including the Nos. 2 and 14 picks &ndash; the Spurs are well-positioned to make a big move. However, they face a dilemma: part with core young assets or risk falling short in rebuilding momentum.
The Rockets are another strong candidate. Durant has personal connections in Houston through assistant coach Royal Ivey and head coach Ime Udoka. The Rockets&rsquo; young core &ndash; Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jalen Green &ndash; is a plus, though matching Phoenix&rsquo;s demands may necessitate including top talent like Green or Jabari Smith Jr.
Despite Durant's preferences, the Suns maintain they will seek the most valuable return, regardless of destination. With Durant entering the final year of a $54.7 million contract and eligible for a two-year, $122&ndash;124 million extension post-trade, leverage remains high. Six to eight teams are reportedly in serious discussions, including the Minnesota Timberwolves.&nbsp;
The window for a deal is narrowing, with reports suggesting a potential trade could emerge within days or centered around the upcoming NBA Draft. While Spurs appear to be premier contenders according to early betting odds, the situation remains highly fluid and driven by asset valuation.&nbsp;
Kevin Durant&rsquo;s next chapter is poised to unfold soon. Miami offers playoff pedigree and culture; San Antonio brings youth and assets; Houston provides chemistry and continuity. Ultimately, the Suns&rsquo; focus on value, aligned with Durant&rsquo;s willingness to commit, sets up a dramatic trade saga that will soon come to a result over the next few days.

The Spurs, Rockets, and Heat are the frontrunners to land Suns superstar forward Kevin Durant, according to Shams Charania.

Heat, Spurs & Rockets emerge as top contenders as Kevin Durant trade talks heat up

The Houston Rockets have secured veteran center Steven Adams with a fully guaranteed three-year, $39 million contract extension, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
The move prevents Adams from hitting unrestricted free agency as he, 31, became a pivotal presence for Houston after being acquired mid-season from Memphis. His retention signals a strong commitment to continuity in the Rockets' frontcourt as they look to continue building from a rather successful season this year, grabbing the second seed in the West.
During the 2024&ndash;25 season, Adams appeared in 58 games off the bench, averaging 3.9 points and 5.6 rebounds in 13.7 minutes per game following a return from PCL surgery. His impact extended beyond traditional stats &ndash; Houston outscored opponents by 5.0 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor and by 14.1 in the seven‑game playoff series against Golden State.
The deal pays Adams an average of $13 million per season, a modest increase over his previous salary of $12.6 million. Despite Houston navigating near the second luxury‑tax apron, the front office prioritized retaining a veteran anchor for their young core.
ANALYSIS: Adams&rsquo; role alongside emerging star Alperen Şeng&uuml;n in double‑center lineups added depth and toughness to the Rockets, earning praise from opposing coaches. His blend of offensive rebounding, interior defense, and veteran leadership will remain a key component under coach Ime Udoka as Houston builds on its 52‑win season.
With Adams locked in long-term, the Rockets now turn their attention to securing point guard Fred VanVleet &ndash; whose potential contract and $44.9 million option loom large in their salary cap strategy. Maintaining Adams ensures lineup stability and frontcourt continuity heading into the 2025&ndash;26 campaign.

The Houston Rockets have secured veteran center Steven Adams with a fully guaranteed three-year, $39 million contract extension.

Houston Rockets resign center Steven Adams on three-year deal

The NBA has officially unveiled its All-Defensive First and Second Teams for the 2024&ndash;25 season, highlighting both seasoned defenders and emerging talents who made significant impacts on the court.
All-Defensive First Team
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Evan Mobley (Cleveland Cavaliers): The 2024&ndash;25 Defensive Player of the Year led all vote-getters, securing 99 out of 100 first-team votes. This marks his second consecutive First Team selection, underscoring his role as a defensive cornerstone for the Cavaliers.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors): Earning his fifth First Team nod and ninth overall All-Defensive selection, the 35-year-old veteran continues to anchor the Warriors' defense with his versatility and leadership.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dyson Daniels (Atlanta Hawks): In his breakout season, Daniels secured his first All-Defensive First Team honor, reflecting his emergence as a premier perimeter defender.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Luguentz Dort (Oklahoma City Thunder): Known for his tenacious on-ball defense, Dort's first First Team selection highlights his pivotal role in the Thunder's league-leading defense.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Amen Thompson (Houston Rockets): In just his second NBA season, Thompson joins an elite group by earning First Team honors, showcasing his exceptional defensive versatility and impact.</li>
</ul>
All-Defensive Second Team
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Toumani Camara (Portland Trail Blazers): Making his debut on the All-Defensive Team, Camara's defensive prowess has been a bright spot for the Trail Blazers.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves): With his eighth All-Defensive selection, Gobert continues to be a dominant force in the paint, anchoring the Timberwolves' defense.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies): Securing his third All-Defensive honor, Jackson's shot-blocking and rim protection remain integral to the Grizzlies' defensive schemes.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jalen Williams (Oklahoma City Thunder): Earning his first All-Defensive selection, Williams' versatility and defensive acumen have been key to the Thunder's success.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ivica Zubac (Los Angeles Clippers): Zubac's interior defense and rebounding have earned him his inaugural All-Defensive Team recognition, highlighting his growth as a defensive anchor.</li>
</ul>
These selections underscore the blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent shaping the NBA's defensive landscape, reflecting the league's emphasis on defensive excellence.
&nbsp;

The NBA has officially unveiled its All-Defensive First and Second Teams for the 2024–25 season.

NBA Announces 2024–25 All-Defensive Teams

Cooper Flagg is now set to take his talents to the NBA and the Dallas Mavericks after the franchise won the NBA draft lottery and the No. 1 overall pick on Monday night.
This is the first time the Mavericks have won the lottery in their 45-year history.
After losing franchise superstar Luka Doncic in a trade with the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas will have an immediate replacement after lucking out with the 1st overall pick. The Mavericks entered the night with the 11th-best odds to land the No. 1 overall, at just 1.8 percent.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
COOPER FLAGG, YOU ARE A DALLAS MAVERICK. Dallas (1.8% chance) has won the 2025 NBA Draft lottery. 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/HzEIlg649i">pic.twitter.com/HzEIlg649i</a>
&mdash; BasketballNews.com (@basketbllnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/basketbllnews/status/1922070620168233131?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2025</a></blockquote>

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The Mavericks are primed to almost certainly use the pick on Flagg, the Duke University freshman standout. The 6-foot-9 Flagg, who is regarded as one of the best prospects in recent NBA history, led the Blue Devils to a Final Four appearance in his lone college season and won the national player of the year award.
Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 48.1% from the field, 38.5% from 3-point range, and 84% from the foul line. If the Mavericks end up drafting him, Flagg will join a core that includes Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and the injured Kyrie Irving.&nbsp;
San Antonio also moved up the draft boards to pick second, while Philadelphia and Charlotte rounded out the top 4.
Utah and Washington, which were tied with Charlotte with the best chances to land 1st overall with 14 percent, will pick fifth and sixth, respectively.
Full order of the draft lottery (according to the sequence announced by NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum)
14th pick - San Antonio Spurs (from Atlanta Hawks)
13th pick - Atlanta Hawks (from Sacramento Kings)
12th pick - Chicago Bulls
11th pick - Portland Trail Blazers
10th pick - Houston Rockets
9th pick - Toronto Raptors
8th pick - Brooklyn Nets
7th pick - New Orleans Pelicans
6th pick - Washington Wizards
5th pick - Utah Jazz
4th pick - Charlotte Hornets
3rd pick - Philadelphia 76ers
2nd pick - San Antonio Spurs
1st pick - Dallas Mavericks

Cooper Flagg is now set to take his talents to the Mavericks after the franchise won the No. 1 overall pick on Monday night.

Mavericks earn 2025 NBA 1st overall pick, right to draft Cooper Flagg

In a remarkable turnaround, Kenny Atkinson has been honored as the 2024&ndash;25 NBA Coach of the Year, recognizing his impactful first season at the helm of the Cleveland Cavaliers.&nbsp;
Atkinson guided the Cavaliers to a 64&ndash;18 record, securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference and marking the second-highest win total in franchise history.
The Cavaliers' season was highlighted by a 15-game winning streak to start the year, tying the second-best start in NBA history. Later, the team achieved a franchise-record 16-game win streak between February and March.
Atkinson's coaching prowess was further acknowledged as he received 59 out of 100 first-place votes from a global media panel, surpassing Detroit Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff and Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka.
This accolade places Atkinson alongside Bill Fitch and Mike Brown as the only Cavaliers coaches to receive the Coach of the Year honor.
Atkinson's previous head coaching experience includes a tenure with the Brooklyn Nets, where he led the team to a playoff appearance in 2019. He also served as an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors, contributing to their 2022 NBA Championship run.
Under Atkinson's leadership, the Cavaliers not only achieved regular-season success but also advanced past the Miami Heat in the playoffs with a record-setting point differential, before facing the Indiana Pacers in the semifinals.
Atkinson's Coach of the Year award underscores his significant impact on the Cavaliers' resurgence and his esteemed position among NBA coaching ranks.

Kenny Atkinson has been honored as the 2024–25 NBA Coach of the Year, recognizing his impactful first season with the Cavaliers.

Kenny Atkinson named 2024–25 NBA Coach of the Year

The 2025 NBA Playoffs delivered high-stakes drama as both the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors emerged victorious in their respective Game 7s, advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals.&nbsp;
Nuggets survive Clippers
The Denver Nuggets showcased their championship pedigree by defeating the Los Angeles Clippers 120&ndash;101 in Game 7 of their first-round series. All the Nuggets&rsquo; five starters scored in double figures, with Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun leading the way with 22 points and 21 points, respectively. Nikola Jokić had 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, narrowly missing a triple-double, for another superb performance.
Denver's depth was on full display, with six players scoring in double figures. The Nuggets dominated the second and third quarters, outscoring the Clippers 37&ndash;21 and 35&ndash;19, respectively, building a lead that proved insurmountable. Russell Westbrook contributed significantly off the bench, adding 5 steals to the team's defensive efforts.
The victory marks Denver's sixth trip to the Western Conference Semifinals in the past seven seasons, underscoring their consistent excellence in the postseason. They now prepare to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in a highly anticipated matchup featuring MVP contenders Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Warriors prevail over Rockets
The Golden State Warriors demonstrated their playoff experience by defeating the Houston Rockets 103&ndash;89 in Game 7. Buddy Hield led the scoring with 33 points, shooting an impressive 9-of-11 from three-point range, setting a Game 7 NBA record. Stephen Curry added 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, with 19 of his points coming in the second half.
The Warriors' defense played a crucial role, limiting the Rockets to 40.5% shooting from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. Draymond Green contributed 16 points and two blocks, while Jimmy Butler III added 20 points. Golden State's strategic adjustments, including a disruptive matchup zone defense, effectively stifled Houston&rsquo;s offense.
This victory marks the Warriors' fifth playoff series win over Houston since 2015 and propels them into a second-round matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The series is notable as it's only the third time in NBA history that a sixth seed faces a seventh seed in the second round, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this year's playoffs.
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;&nbsp;
As the Western Conference Semifinals approach, both the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors carry momentum from their Game 7 victories. Their upcoming series promises to deliver high-quality basketball, with seasoned veterans and emerging stars vying for a spot in the Conference Finals.

The 2025 NBA Playoffs delivered as both the Nuggets and the Warriors emerged victorious in their respective Game 7s.

Denver, Golden State eke Game 7 wins over LA, Houston

The Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green and Stephen Curry have been recognized for their exceptional contributions during the 2024&ndash;25 NBA season. Green received the Hustle Player of the Year award, while Curry was honored with the Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year award.​
Draymond Green: 2024-2025 Hustle Player of the Year
Draymond Green, known for his relentless energy and defensive prowess, secured the Hustle Player of the Year award for the 2024&ndash;25 season. This accolade celebrates players who make impactful plays that often go unnoticed in traditional statistics.Green distinguished himself by ranking among the top 40 in all nine hustle categories, including deflections, loose balls recovered, charges drawn, screen assists, contested shots, and box-outs. Throughout the season, he averaged 9.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.0 blocks over 68 games. At 35, Green becomes only the second player, alongside Marcus Smart, to have won both the Defensive Player of the Year and Hustle Award in their careers.&nbsp;
Stephen Curry: 2024-2025 Teammate of the Year&nbsp;
Stephen Curry's influence extends beyond his scoring ability; his leadership and camaraderie have earned him the Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award for the 2024&ndash;25 season. This award honors players who exemplify selfless play, mentorship, and dedication to their team. Curry received 66 first-place votes and totaled 1,257 points, narrowly surpassing Houston Rockets center Steven Adams, who finished with 1,237 points. This marks Curry's first time receiving this honor, adding to his illustrious career that includes four NBA championships and two MVP awards.
The achievements of Green and Curry underscore the Warriors' culture of excellence, resilience, and teamwork. Their recognition serves as a testament to their enduring impact on and off the court.​

The Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green and Stephen Curry have been recognized for their contributions during the season.

Warriors’ Draymond Green, Stephen Curry earn respective 2024-2025 NBA Awards

The NBA has officially announced the finalists for its 2024-25 season awards, spotlighting standout performances across the league.&nbsp;
Leading the Most Valuable Player (MVP) race are Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets), and Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks). Gilgeous-Alexander, who averaged a league-high 32.7 points per game, guided the Thunder to an NBA-best 68&ndash;14 record. Jokić delivered a stellar season with averages of 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, while Antetokounmpo contributed 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game.
Defensive Player of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dyson Daniels (Atlanta Hawks)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Evan Mobley (Cleveland Cavaliers)​</li>
</ul>
Notably, Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs was ineligible due to playing only 46 games this season.&nbsp;
Most Improved Player Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ivica Zubac (Los Angeles Clippers)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dyson Daniels (Atlanta Hawks)</li>
</ul>
Rookie of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Stephon Castle (San Antonio Spurs)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zaccharie Risacher (Atlanta Hawks)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jaylen Wells (Memphis Grizzlies)​</li>
</ul>
Sixth Man of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Malik Beasley (Detroit Pistons)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ty Jerome (Cleveland Cavaliers)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Payton Pritchard (Boston Celtics)​</li>
</ul>
Clutch Player of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets)​</li>
</ul>
Coach of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kenny Atkinson (Cleveland Cavaliers)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">J.B. Bickerstaff (Detroit Pistons)​</li>
</ul>
The winners will be announced during the NBA Playoffs, with dates to be determined.​

The NBA has officially announced the finalists for its 2024-25 season awards.

NBA announces finalists for 2024-2025 NBA Awards

As the 2025 NBA Playoffs begin, the Western Conference presents no shortage of compelling narratives and unanswered questions. Each team comes in with a storyline that could define their entire postseason. From young squads making their playoff debut to experienced rosters led by superstars, here's the biggest question facing each Western Conference playoff team.
Oklahoma City Thunder &mdash; Can their historic defense carry over to the playoffs?
The Oklahoma City Thunder have fielded the league&rsquo;s best defense this season, boasting a 106.6 defensive rating &mdash; the lowest mark in the NBA and one of the best over the past decade. Anchored by a core of versatile perimeter defenders like Lu Dort, Cason Wallace, Jalen Williams, and MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, along with interior enforcer Isaiah Hartenstein and shot blocker Chet Holmgren, the Thunder built a defensive identity predicated on length, switchability, and relentless pressure.
But as history has shown, regular-season defense doesn&rsquo;t always translate to playoff dominance. Matchups become more intentional, rotations tighten, and elite scorers are given room to manipulate even the best schemes. For a team like OKC that leans heavily on team defense rather than individual stoppers, their system will be tested in a postseason series where adjustments are key. Moreover, the Thunder&rsquo;s youth &ndash; despite being a strength in the regular season &ndash; may also be a vulnerability when the game slows down and every possession is magnified.
This Thunder squad has the makings of a historically great defense, but now comes the true test: whether that same system can hold up when a superstar like Luka Doncic or Steph Curry start hunting matchups in isolation. If OKC can sustain their defensive intensity in a seven-game series, their path to a deep run remains wide open.
Houston Rockets &mdash; Will their inexperience hinder them from going too far?
After years of rebuilding, the Houston Rockets are finally back in the playoffs &mdash; and this time, with a young core brimming with talent. Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson are all making their playoff debuts, and they&rsquo;ve formed a competitive group that finished with the fifth-best defense in the league (110.3 DRtg) and earned the second seed. Their turnaround under head coach Ime Udoka has been remarkable, fueled by a defense-first identity and the emergence of Sengun as one of the best passing bigs in the league.
However, playoff basketball is a different beast. It&rsquo;s about adjustments, discipline, and poise under pressure &ndash; things young teams usually need time to learn. In their first-round matchup, the Rockets face the battle-tested Golden State Warriors, a team that features championship experience across the board. Houston&rsquo;s youth could be exposed if the moment becomes too big, especially with Golden State&rsquo;s ability to dissect inexperience through smart off-ball actions and defensive schemes.
Players like Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, the Rockets&rsquo; veterans, will be counted on to provide leadership and stabilize the team when things go sideways. But this postseason will ultimately serve as a litmus test for how ready the Rockets&rsquo; young stars are to take the leap. Even if they fall short, the experience could be invaluable moving forward.
Los Angeles Lakers &mdash; How viable is their roster construction?
The Lakers shocked the league by acquiring Luka Doncic midseason, pairing him with LeBron James and Austin Reaves to form a high-powered offensive trio. Since then, they&rsquo;ve leaned heavily into small-ball, often starting lineups with Rui Hachimura and Dorian Finney-Smith alongside the core trio, while Jaxson Hayes remains their only true center. First-year head coach JJ Redick has installed a modern, five-out system that prioritizes spacing and switchable defense &mdash; a style tailor-made for the postseason.
But viability is still a concern. While the offense has thrived, their defense has some slippages, particularly when LeBron and Luka are on the floor together. Their lack of rim protection and size could be exploited by teams that boast elite drivers to the rim. Additionally, the wear-and-tear of postseason play could take a toll on their aging core, especially LeBron, who is playing his 22nd season and logging heavy minutes in the postseason
Ultimately, the Lakers&rsquo; playoff ceiling hinges on whether their current roster configuration &ndash; heavy on wings, light on bigs &ndash; can hold up when the game slows down and physicality ramps up. If it works, Redick could be hailed as a tactical genius. If it doesn&rsquo;t, questions about roster balance and long-term direction will resurface.
Denver Nuggets &mdash; Do they have enough help around Nikola Jokic?
Nikola Jokic is once again doing everything for the Denver Nuggets &mdash; and doing it at an MVP level. He finished the regular season averaging a triple-double and top 3 in every major statistical category. His ability to control the game as both scorer and facilitator remains unmatched, and he remains the engine of everything Denver does offensively. But after a sluggish finish to the season, the biggest concern for the Nuggets is whether Jokic has enough help to mount another deep playoff run.
Jamal Murray has battled through injuries and hasn&rsquo;t quite looked like the same dynamic scorer from their 2023 championship run. Michael Porter Jr. has been inconsistent, while Aaron Gordon&rsquo;s offensive impact has waned due to multiple injuries. Denver&rsquo;s bench has also taken a step back this year, with limited contributions outside of Russell Westbrook, Julian Strawther and Peyton Watson.
If Murray can elevate his game and Porter Jr. can knock down shots consistently, Denver remains a title threat. But the margin for error is much slimmer than last year. Jokic can only carry so much weight &ndash; the Nuggets need their supporting cast to deliver, or another early exit could be looming.
Los Angeles Clippers &mdash; Can we see James Harden and Kawhi Leonard lead this team to playoff glory?
After losing Paul George to free agency last summer, many assumed the Clippers&rsquo; title window had slammed shut. But the resurgence of James Harden and Kawhi Leonard has breathed life back into their playoff hopes. Harden has embraced the role of primary playmaker, averaging 22.8 points and 8.7 assists per game, while Leonard has quietly had one of the most efficient scoring seasons of his career in recent years, shooting 49.8% from the field and 41.1% from deep.
The Clippers finished the season strong with their offense clicking and defense holding steady. Yet the question remains &ndash; can their two stars carry them through the gauntlet of the Western Conference? Leonard&rsquo;s health has always been a question mark, and Harden&rsquo;s playoff track record has been a mixed bag at best.&nbsp;
This postseason may be one of the last chances for this iteration of the Clippers to make a real push. If Harden and Kawhi can replicate their regular-season success and stay healthy, they could make noise. Along with steady role players like Norman Powell and Ivica Zubac, the Clippers are darkhorse contenders and will be dangerous out in the West.
Minnesota Timberwolves &mdash; How will Julius Randle perform in the playoffs?
Minnesota shocked many by acquiring Julius Randle at the trade deadline, moving on from Karl-Anthony Towns in the process. The Wolves hoped that Randle, a more physical and downhill-oriented forward, would provide a better playoff fit alongside Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert. However, Randle&rsquo;s postseason history raises concerns &mdash; in 15 career playoff games, he&rsquo;s averaged just 15.6 points on 34.4% shooting from the field.
Minnesota will need more than that if they hope to build on last year&rsquo;s conference finals run. Randle must adapt his game to playoff basketball, where defenses are better prepared and isolation-heavy play often becomes less efficient. His ability to stretch the floor, make quick decisions, and play through contact will be tested, especially against elite defenses like OKC.
If Randle rises to the occasion, Minnesota could have one of the most balanced starting fives in the conference. But if he reverts to his inefficient playoff habits, the Wolves could find themselves stalling in critical moments &ndash; a risk that looms large in what could be a defining postseason for the franchise.
Golden State Warriors &mdash; How far can Jimmy Butler take them?
The Warriors made arguably the boldest trade of the deadline by acquiring Jimmy Butler from Miami, forming a star duo with Stephen Curry. Since the move, Golden State has looked rejuvenated, going on a tear to close the regular season and boasting the third-best net rating in the league during that span (+7.2). Butler&rsquo;s leadership, defense, and shot creation have given the Warriors a legitimate second option and re-energized their playoff outlook.
Butler has a proven playoff track record &ndash; he led the Heat to two Finals appearances in four years &ndash; and is widely regarded as one of the most clutch postseason performers. His fit with Golden State has been seamless, and the team&rsquo;s defense has improved significantly, ranking 6th in opponent points per game since the trade. The question is how far Butler can carry this version of the Warriors, who still lean heavily on their aging core.
If Butler can replicate his past postseason heroics and stay healthy, the Warriors have a real shot to upset higher-seeded teams and return to the Finals.
Memphis Grizzlies &mdash; Can they survive this tough season?
No team has faced more adversity this year than the Memphis Grizzlies. Between Ja Morant&rsquo;s on-court antics, injuries to key players, and coaching instability and firing, Memphis stumbled to a slump at the end of the regular season but managed to squeak into the playoffs as the 8-seed. Despite the chaos, the team has shown remarkable resilience, with Jaren Jackson Jr. and rookie Zach Edey emerging as bright spots with their improved play.
Now they face the top-seeded Thunder in a first-round matchup that few give them a chance to win. But if there&rsquo;s one thing the Grizzlies have shown, it&rsquo;s that they won&rsquo;t go down without a fight. Their defense could keep them competitive, and their physical style of play may pose problems for the Thunder.
Ultimately, the playoffs may serve more as a building block than a real title push. But if Memphis can steal a game or two &mdash; or even push OKC to the brink &mdash; it would be a testament to the team&rsquo;s grit and foundation heading into next season.

Breaking down the biggest question each Western Conference team faces heading into the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

2025 NBA Western Conference Playoffs: Each team’s biggest question in the playoffs

Every NBA season comes with its fair share of surprises, and the 2024-25 campaign has been no different. While championship contenders and superstars have dominated headlines, several teams have quietly &mdash; or loudly &mdash; rewritten their narratives in spectacular fashion. These aren&rsquo;t just flukes or hot streaks. These are teams that have made a leap, exceeded expectations, and found themselves in playoff positioning when few thought they&rsquo;d be here, or surpassing their previous season&rsquo;s accomplishments.
Whether it&rsquo;s through masterful coaching, player development, savvy roster moves, or simply finding the right chemistry at the right time, these are the teams that have all proven that projections and preseason power rankings don&rsquo;t always tell the full story. Here's a closer look at how these franchises flipped the script and are now among the best feel-good stories of the season.
Detroit Pistons Previous season&rsquo;s record: 17-65 This season&rsquo;s record: 44-38, 6th in the East
Perhaps no team has made a bigger leap &mdash; or captured the league&rsquo;s heart &mdash; more than the Detroit Pistons. Just a year removed from a miserable 17-win season, the Pistons have pulled off one of the most dramatic turnarounds in recent NBA memory. They are now sixth in the Eastern Conference, and have set a playoff date against the third-seeded New York Knicks.
Much of that credit goes to newly hired head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, who brought immediate structure, accountability, and belief into a young locker room. But the star of the show has been Cade Cunningham. After an injury-riddled season last year, Cunningham has blossomed into a true franchise player this year &mdash; a dual-threat scorer and facilitator who commands the game at his own pace. His decision-making has improved drastically, and he's showing why he was the No. 1 overall pick. Cunningham is here, and he&rsquo;s gunning for that star/superstar status.
Surrounding Cunningham, players like Jaden Ivey (even though he was injured) and Ausar Thompson have also taken noticeable steps forward, while big man Jalen Duren has anchored the middle with toughness and poise beyond his years. Detroit has also had key free agent signings that brought veteran presence in the locker room in Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Tobias Harris. They have also picked up vet PG Dennis Schroder in a trade to help Cunningham with the ball-handling duties. Everything that Detroit has done was in order to come back and see this moment &ndash; to be back in the playoffs. It&rsquo;s not just that Detroit is winning &mdash; it&rsquo;s how they&rsquo;re doing it: through defense, selflessness, and maturity. They&rsquo;ve gone from laughingstock to legitimate in over a season, and it has been incredibly fun to watch.
Houston Rockets Previous season&rsquo;s record: 22-60 This season&rsquo;s record: 52-30, 2nd in the West
After four long and grueling seasons of rebuilding, the Houston Rockets are back &mdash; and better than ever. They&rsquo;ve clinched 50 wins for the first time since the James Harden era and have soared into the second seed in the loaded Western Conference. This transformation didn&rsquo;t happen overnight, but every move the Rockets made over the last four years has culminated in a roster that&rsquo;s deep, versatile, and hungry.
It started with the front office, who made smart picks in the draft: Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green in 2021, Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason in 2022, Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore in 2023, and Reed Sheppard in 2024. The result? A blend of high-upside talent that&rsquo;s matured quickly under the right guidance. And that guidance came in the form of Ime Udoka &mdash; the tough, defense-first head coach who has instilled discipline and identity from day one.
The Rockets also balanced their youth with veteran leadership. Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks were crucial free-agent signings, and the trade for Steven Adams added much-needed size and experience in the paint. Sengun has quietly become one of the most skilled bigs in the league, averaging near triple-double numbers with his passing and post play. Meanwhile, Jalen Green&rsquo;s shot selection and efficiency have improved, making him a more consistent offensive threat.
Everything is clicking in Houston, and the best part? They&rsquo;re still only scratching the surface. It&rsquo;s officially liftoff time in Houston, Texas.
Cleveland Cavaliers Previous season&rsquo;s record: 51-31 This season&rsquo;s record: 64-18, 1st in the East
It might sound strange to include a 50-win team in a list of surprises, but the Cleveland Cavaliers have surpassed what many expected from them &mdash; and in a completely new way. After losing to the Celtics in the second round last season, many believed Cleveland had plateaued, stuck in a tier below the East&rsquo;s elite. But the arrival of head coach Kenny Atkinson changed everything.
Atkinson brought more than just X&rsquo;s and O&rsquo;s to Cleveland &mdash; he brought vision. His innovative offensive schemes breathed new life into the team, particularly Evan Mobley. The former third overall pick has emerged as a true two-way force this year, expanding his offensive bag while remaining a defensive anchor. Mobley has become more comfortable operating as a playmaker, setting high screens, making short-roll reads, and even spacing the floor.
Donovan Mitchell remains the alpha, capable of carrying the offense during clutch moments. But with Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen playing supporting roles to perfection &mdash; and the perfect role players giving them a punch off the bench &mdash; the Cavaliers are deeper and more dangerous than ever. This is their best season since LeBron left, and it feels like they&rsquo;ve finally found a sustainable identity. They're not just winning games; they&rsquo;re playing like a team that believes it can win the East.
Los Angeles Clippers Previous season&rsquo;s record: 44-38 This season&rsquo;s record: 50-32, 5th in the West
No team entered the season with lower public expectations relative to their talent than the Los Angeles Clippers especially after Paul George left in free agency. The assumption was that LA&rsquo;s championship window had finally slammed shut. But instead of folding, the Clippers responded with a defiant, gritty, and unified season that caught the league off guard.
Kawhi Leonard returned healthy and dominant, looking like the MVP-caliber player of old. His midrange game has been clinical, and he&rsquo;s elevated his play on both ends as the postseason approaches. But perhaps the most shocking resurgence came from James Harden, who has turned back the clock and delivered one of his most efficient seasons in years. Harden has assumed full command of the offense, orchestrating everything with poise and flair while re-establishing himself as a top-tier guard in the league that could possibly fetch an All-NBA plum.
The supporting cast has been outstanding. Ivica Zubac has taken a huge leap, anchoring the Clippers&rsquo; defense and finishing strong around the rim. He&rsquo;s firmly in the Most Improved Player conversation. Norman Powell has been a revelation in an expanded role, consistently providing scoring and hustle. The &ldquo;addition by subtraction&rdquo; idea has rung true &mdash; with more touches and opportunities, Powell has been better than ever.
And of course, credit must go to Tyronn Lue, who has maximized every piece of this roster and turned what many assumed would be a rebuilding year into a redemption tour. The Clippers became this gritty and rugged defensive team that no one wants to meet in the playoffs. They might be underdogs, but they&rsquo;ve built something real.&nbsp;
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
These four teams &mdash; Detroit, Houston, Cleveland, and Los Angeles &mdash; entered the season with vastly different narratives. But they all share a common thread: they weren&rsquo;t supposed to be this good. Whether through internal growth, roster management, or coaching brilliance, each franchise has exceeded expectations in its own way.
The playoffs will be the true test, but what these teams have already accomplished is worth celebrating. In a league where dynasties often dominate headlines, it's stories like these that keep the NBA fresh, unpredictable, and thrilling year after year.

Discover how the Pistons, Rockets, Cavaliers, and Clippers have surpassed this season's expectations and rewrote their narratives.

Teams that have exceeded expectations this season

The 2024&ndash;25 NBA MVP race has been one of the most compelling in recent years. This discussion has proven to be a two-man race between Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets&rsquo; maestro of efficiency and triple-doubles, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the engine powering the Oklahoma City Thunder&rsquo;s stunning rise to the top of the league.
Despite the 3-time MVP Jokic continuing to post staggering numbers and lead the Denver Nuggets to relative success, this season however, there's an argument to be made that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deserves the MVP more than any other player.
While both superstars are delivering historically great seasons, SGA not only has established himself as one of the premier scorers in the league, but his leadership, efficiency, and two-way play have been crucial in leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the best record in the NBA.&nbsp;
This isn&rsquo;t to discredit what Jokić has accomplished &ndash; he&rsquo;s been outstanding once again for the 5th year in a row. But this season, SGA&rsquo;s production, leadership, two-way dominance, and the historic heights he&rsquo;s lifted his team make him a solid choice for this year&rsquo;s plum.
<h3>Statistical Dominance</h3>
Not only is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the NBA in scoring with an impressive 32.7 PPG, but he's doing so with a level of efficiency that makes his production even more remarkable. His 64.5 TS% (True Shooting Percentage) (measuring shooting efficiency by accounting for both field goals and free throws) is the second-best in NBA history for a player averaging over 32 PPG. This efficiency level places him in rare air, joining only the likes of Wilt Chamberlain and LeBron James as players who&rsquo;ve managed such remarkable numbers over an entire season. This ability to score efficiently while still putting up high-volume numbers highlights SGA's incredible skill as a scorer.
What further bolsters his MVP case is his consistency. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's performance streaks are jaw-dropping, as he is now only the 7th player in NBA history to record 60 consecutive games of 20 or more points, an achievement that emphasizes his reliability as a go-to scorer night in and night out. To put that into perspective, only players like Wilt Chamberlain (twice), Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Durant have accomplished such a feat. This level of sustained excellence, coupled with the fact that SGA has done this while playing on a young, evolving team, truly sets him apart as a player who not only shows up every night but consistently delivers when his team needs him most.
Beyond scoring, SGA has been a clutch performer. Gilgeous-Alexander is the go-to player for Oklahoma City both in blowout and tight games, and his ability to deliver in those moments has been nothing short of remarkable. His clutch statistics place him in the upper echelon of the league&rsquo;s elite finishers, reinforcing the value he brings to his team when the stakes are highest.
<h3>Defensive and Advanced Metrics</h3>
SGA&rsquo;s impact on the defensive end has been equally impressive. Not only is he second in the league in steals, showcasing his ability to disrupt passing lanes and create fast-break opportunities, but he&rsquo;s also first among guards in blocks, showing his ability to protect the rim and provide crucial defense in the paint. His defensive versatility has been a game-changer for Oklahoma City, allowing him to guard multiple positions and provide a two-way presence that&rsquo;s rare for a player of his offensive caliber. Beyond the raw stats, SGA&rsquo;s defensive metrics, including his Defensive Box Plus-Minus (DBPM), demonstrate his value in stopping opponents and contributing to one of the league's top defenses.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of his impact is how advanced analytics highlight his all-around value. He leads the league in EPM (Estimated Plus-Minus) and EW (Estimated Wins), which are advanced metrics that measure a player's overall contribution to his team's success. His offensive EPM ranks first, while his defensive EPM is 95th percentile, an incredible feat for a player known primarily for his offensive output. These metrics are crucial, as they show that SGA&rsquo;s influence transcends traditional statistics. SGA is not just a scorer; he is making a difference across all facets of the game.
<h3>Team Impact and Leadership</h3>
As the best player on the Oklahoma City Thunder, SGA has led them to an 16-game lead in the Western Conference over the 2nd place Houston Rockets. This is a truly remarkable feat considering the team&rsquo;s relative inexperience and youth. The Thunder&rsquo;s net rating of 12.8 when he&rsquo;s on the court is the second best net rating of all-time, just behind the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls.&nbsp;
What&rsquo;s even more impressive is that SGA has done all of this without Chet Holmgren for most of the season, who was out 50 games due to injury. Additionally, key pieces like Isaiah Hartenstein, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Alex Caruso have all missed games of their own across the season. SGA&rsquo;s leadership has been the driving force behind their success, and his ability to elevate his teammates &mdash; particularly in high-pressure moments &mdash; has been a testament to his basketball IQ and maturity.
In addition to his on-court contributions, SGA&rsquo;s leadership qualities have been crucial in developing the Thunder&rsquo;s young core. His ability to be a vocal leader, mentor to younger players, and lead by example has fostered an environment of growth and success in Oklahoma City.&nbsp;
<h3>On this historic race against Jokic</h3>
It's important to note that Jokic is also having another historically good season and is certainly worthy of MVP consideration. His triple-double averages and ability to dominate games in every aspect of play make him one of the most well-rounded players the NBA has ever seen. However, while Jokić's individual brilliance is undeniable, what sets Shai Gilgeous-Alexander apart this season is the way he has led his team to unprecedented success despite being on a much younger, less experienced roster. While Jokić is the undisputed leader of the Nuggets and already a 3-time NBA MVP. SGA has carried a relatively young team that was expected to be 1-2 years away from title contention to the best record in the league. Both players are extraordinary, but SGA&rsquo;s impact on the overall success of his team this season alone should give him the edge.
Additionally, while Jokić&rsquo;s advanced stats are historically great (averaging a triple-double with 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, and 10.2 APG and ranking all in top 3 of each of those categories), SGA&rsquo;s contributions have been equally, if not more, impressive given the context of his team's development. Jokić&rsquo;s ability to elevate his teammates with his unique playmaking is undeniable, but SGA&rsquo;s leadership and all-around contributions have propelled the Thunder to an incredible level, with their 16-game lead in the Western Conference serving as the clearest testament to his importance.
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
In a season where we&rsquo;ve witnessed incredible performances across the league from both players, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rose to the top along with OKC. If this was any other season in place, Jokic could have been easily a unanimous choice for the award.&nbsp;
But this year, whether it's scoring efficiently, leading his team, or providing defensive versatility, SGA has done it all. His case for MVP is not just based on impressive statistics &mdash; it&rsquo;s about the way he has shaped the identity of the Oklahoma City Thunder, bringing them to the forefront of NBA contention. From his historic scoring streak to his defensive contributions, there&rsquo;s no doubt that this is the season where SGA has established himself as the most valuable player in the NBA.

NBA MVP 2025 frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has led the OKC Thunder with elite stats, clutch play, and two-way play.

Making Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s case as the 2025 NBA MVP

The 2024&ndash;25 NBA regular season concluded with a dramatic final day, solidifying the playoff picture and setting the stage for an exciting postseason.&nbsp;
The Clippers beat the Warriors in a tough game, with all the stars coming out to play. Golden State&rsquo;s Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler went toe-to-toe with LA&rsquo;s James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, with the latter coming out on top in overtime. With the Clippers&rsquo; win, they are slotted at the 5th seed and will face 4th-seeded Denver after also winning against Houston.
The Warriors&rsquo; loss will put them in the play-in tournament, which they will host against the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Minnesota Timberwolves booked a date with the 3rd-seeded Lakers after their win vs the Utah Jazz.&nbsp;
The Play-In Tournament is scheduled for April 15&ndash;18, followed by the commencement of the playoffs on April 19.​&nbsp;
<h3>Western Conference</h3>
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured the top seed in the West with a franchise-best 68&ndash;14 record, while the Houston Rockets claimed the second seed. Both teams now await their playoff opponents with the results of the play-in tournament.
Play-In Matchups:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">(7) Golden State Warriors vs. (8) Memphis Grizzlies</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">(9) Sacramento Kings vs. (10) Dallas Mavericks ​</li>
</ul>
<h3>Eastern Conference</h3>
The Cleveland Cavaliers clinched the top seed in the East with a 64&ndash;18 record, marking their first number 1 seed since 2016. The Boston Celtics secured the second seed, followed by the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers.
Play-In Matchups:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">(7) Orlando Magic vs. (8) Atlanta Hawks</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">(9) Chicago Bulls vs. (10) Miami Heat</li>
</ul>
The Play-In Tournament will determine the final two playoff spots in each conference. The winners of the 7-8 games will earn the seventh seed, while the losers will face the winners of the 9-10 games to compete for the eighth seed.&nbsp;
The playoffs promise intense matchups, with teams like the Thunder and Cavaliers aiming to capitalize on their strong regular-season performances, while other teams like the Lakers, Warriors, Celtics, and Bucks looking to make deep postseason runs.​

The 2024–25 NBA season concluded with a dramatic final day, solidifying the playoff picture and setting the stage for the playoffs.

2025 NBA Playoffs set after thrilling regular season finale

It&rsquo;s no longer about the future in Oklahoma City. The Thunder are here &ndash; now. With a league-best defense that has drawn comparisons to all-time great units, an MVP-caliber season from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and a supporting cast built on versatility, youth, and hunger, the 2024-25 season has shifted from promising to pressurized. For the first time in over a decade, it genuinely feels like title or bust in OKC.
The Thunder have shattered expectations, and more importantly, they&rsquo;ve shattered records. Their defense, the foundation of their rise to the top of the Western Conference, has drawn widespread acclaim for its unique blend of modern switchability and classic intensity. Through 70+ games, Oklahoma City leads the NBA in defensive rating (106.3), opponent field goal percentage (43.1%), deflections per game (18.9), and points allowed in the paint (41.2). They&rsquo;ve held opponents to under 100 points more often than not every night in a league where pace and scoring have exploded.
The core of their defensive identity lies in their guard- and wing-heavy rotations. While other teams rely on traditional centers to anchor the paint, the Thunder have gone the other way, trotting out lineups that feature interchangeable defenders from 1 through 5. Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace, Luguentz Dort, and Alex Caruso form a perimeter nightmare &ndash; long arms, lateral speed, and high IQs. Add versatile and switchable big man Chet Holmgren and offseason acquisition Isaiah Hartenstein who is finally healthy, and OKC just has enough size to make this strategy sustainable deep into the postseason.
This season, they became the first team in NBA history to record three separate games where they held opponents to under 80 points. They also broke the franchise record for most games with 10+ steals (38 and counting), showing how their defensive pressure creates instant offense. That&rsquo;s what separates this Thunder team from past defensive stalwarts &ndash; this isn&rsquo;t a grind-it-out, slow-it-down system. It&rsquo;s a high-speed, deflect-and-run machine that turns defense into points within seconds.
And it&rsquo;s not just the defense. The Thunder currently boast a historic net rating of +12.8, which is on pace to be the second-best in history just behind the 1996 Chicago Bulls (+13.4) and surpassing the 1972 Los Angeles Lakers (+12.3) &ndash; two of the most dominant teams in NBA history. That&rsquo;s how well-rounded and complete this squad has become on both ends of the floor.
Their dominance isn&rsquo;t just on one side of the floor either. Gilgeous-Alexander continues to elevate his game with an even more efficient scoring arsenal and a career-high in assists. He has the poise of a ten-year vet and the footwork of a ballet dancer, carving up defenses while setting the tone with his own relentless on-ball defense that averages a whole lot of steals. Around him, players like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren have fully embraced their roles, combining skill with selflessness.
Holmgren&rsquo;s presence has given OKC the luxury of rim protection without sacrificing mobility. His timing and instincts allow the perimeter defenders to gamble, knowing there's a shot-blocking safety net behind them. And with the addition of Hartenstein, the Thunder finally have some physicality and depth in the frontcourt &ndash; something they sorely lacked during last year&rsquo;s playoff run.
Last season's first-round exit to the Mavericks was a learning experience. Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving exploited mismatches and punished OKC&rsquo;s lack of rebounding. But this year feels different. The team has internalized those lessons, retooled accordingly, and stormed into the postseason with purpose. They&rsquo;ve secured a top seed, a historically elite defense, and momentum. The only thing left is the ultimate validation &ndash; a championship.
And with the Western Conference as wide open as ever, the opportunity is right in front of them. Denver is still dangerous with 3-time MVP Nikola Jokić, but OKC's defensive blueprint gives them a legitimate shot. The Warriors, Lakers, and Clippers are dangerous, but OKC has the superior age and athleticism factor and can match up well with them. Minnesota is still heavily reliant on shot-making by Anthony Edwards, and Houston is just scratching the surface. It&rsquo;s not an easy road, but it&rsquo;s navigable&mdash;and for the Thunder, anything less than a Finals appearance would feel like a disappointment.
That&rsquo;s what happens when you build a monster on defense. Expectations rise. Patience fades. And this young team is growing up fast right before our eyes.
The Thunder aren&rsquo;t just knocking on the door of contention anymore&mdash;they&rsquo;ve kicked it open with a suffocating defensive identity and a fearless approach to the game. And with everything they've accomplished this season, it might not be too far-fetched to say that it&rsquo;s officially title or bust time in Oklahoma City.

The OKC Thunder are dominating the 2024-25 NBA season with a historic defense and record-breaking net rating.

Historic defense sets OKC Thunder’s championship expectations

The Florida Gators have clinched their third NCAA Men's Basketball Championship after narrowly defeating the Houston Cougars 65-63 in a thrilling title game on Monday, April 7 at the Alamodome in San Antonio.&nbsp;
Trailing by as many as 12 points in the second half, the Gators mounted a remarkable comeback. Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., who was scoreless in the first half, emerged as a pivotal figure by scoring all 11 of his points after halftime. His defensive prowess was on full display in the final moments, forcing a crucial turnover that sealed the victory for Florida.&nbsp;
Guard Will Richard led the Gators with 18 points, while forward Alex Condon contributed 12 points, playing a significant role in countering Houston's formidable defense.&nbsp;
This championship marks Florida's first national title since 2007 and positions head coach Todd Golden, at 39, as the youngest to win the championship since 1983.
On the opposing side, Houston's L.J. Cryer led all scorers with 19 points. Despite holding a significant lead and showcasing strong defense throughout the game, the Cougars were unable to secure their first national title, with late-game turnovers proving costly. ​
This victory adds Florida to the elite list of programs with at least three NCAA men's basketball titles, underscoring the team's resilience and determination throughout the tournament.

The Florida Gators have clinched their third NCAA Men's Basketball Championship after narrowly defeating the Houston Cougars 65-63

Florida clinch third NCAA title overall with comeback win over Houston

The 2025 NCAA Final Four delivered thrilling outcomes, setting the stage for compelling national championship games in both men's and women's basketball.​
Men's Final Four: Houston's Dramatic Comeback Against Duke
The Houston Cougars orchestrated a stunning 70&ndash;67 comeback victory over the Duke Blue Devils. Trailing by 14 points with just over eight minutes remaining, Houston closed the game on a 9&ndash;0 run in the final 42 seconds. Junior guard Emanuel Sharp ignited the rally with crucial baskets, while J&rsquo;Wan Roberts sealed the win with decisive free throws. Duke's standout freshman, Cooper Flagg, contributed 27 points but was held scoreless during the critical final minutes.
This victory propels Houston to the national championship game against the Florida Gators, who secured their spot by defeating Auburn 79&ndash;73.&nbsp; Florida was led by star guard Will Clayton Jr., who had 34 big points in the win.
Women's Final Four: UConn and South Carolina Advance
In the women's bracket, the University of Connecticut Huskies, led by standout guard Paige Bueckers, advanced to the national championship game after a commanding 85&ndash;51 victory over UCLA. Bueckers, projected as the top pick in the upcoming WNBA draft, showcased her exceptional talent throughout the tournament.
UConn will face the defending champion South Carolina Gamecocks, who earned their place in the title game by defeating Texas 74&ndash;57. The championship matchup features two powerhouse programs with a history of intense competition, each vying for the national title.&nbsp;
The women's national championship game is scheduled for Sunday at 3 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ABC.&nbsp;
Both championship games promise to deliver high-stakes action as these teams compete for collegiate basketball supremacy.​

The 2025 NCAA Final Four delivered thrilling outcomes, setting the stage for compelling national championship games.

Houston stuns Duke; Bueckers and UConn set up title game with South Carolina

In a remarkable display of superb basketball, the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament will feature all four No. 1 seeds&mdash;Florida Gators, Auburn Tigers, Duke Blue Devils, and Houston Cougars&mdash;advancing to the Final Four. This marks the first occurrence since 2008 that all top seeds have reached this stage.​
The Final Four matchups are set to take place at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, on Saturday, April 5. The semifinal games feature Florida facing Auburn at 5:09 p.m. ET, followed by Houston against Duke at 7:49 p.m. ET. Both games will be broadcast on CBS and streamed on March Madness Live and Paramount+.​
Each team's path through the Elite Eight was marked by decisive victories. The Florida Gators secured their Final Four berth by defeating the Texas Tech Red Raiders with a final score of 84-79. The Auburn Tigers overcame the Michigan State Spartans in a 70-64 contest despite a scare from star player Johni Broome, who suffered an elbow injury during the game. Broome returned to contribute crucial points, helping Auburn advance and keep dancing in March Madness.
The Duke Blue Devils dominated the Alabama Crimson Tide with an 85-65 win led by standout freshman Cooper Flagg. The Houston Cougars delivered a commanding 69-50 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers. The Cougars' strong defense and cohesive play have been instrumental in their journey, and this will once again be needed for them to win in the Final Four.
In the Final Four, each team will bring a compelling narrative to the tournament.
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Florida Gators: Making their first Final Four appearance since 2014, the Gators aim to capture their third national title.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Auburn Tigers: Under the leadership of Coach Bruce Pearl, Auburn seeks its first national championship, adding to the excitement surrounding their journey.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Duke Blue Devils: Led by standout freshman Cooper Flagg, Duke continues its storied tradition in the tournament, with insights from Coach K and current coach Jon Scheyer highlighting their path to the Final Four.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Houston Cougars: With a strong bond and loyalty praised by alumnus and legendary broadcaster Jim Nantz, Houston aims for its biggest achievement since the 1980s.</li>
</ul>
This convergence of top seeds sets the stage for an electrifying conclusion to March Madness 2025, as fans eagerly anticipate which team will emerge as the national champion.​

In a remarkable display of superb basketball, the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament will feature all four No. 1 seeds.

March Madness 2025: All No. 1 Seeds Advance to Final Four

The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament has reached the Elite Eight stage, featuring a mix of top seeds and formidable challengers. The matchups are as follows:​
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">South Region: #1 Auburn Tigers vs. #2 Michigan State Spartans​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">West Region: #1 Florida Gators vs. #3 Texas Tech Red Raiders​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">East Region: #1 Duke Blue Devils vs. #2 Alabama Crimson Tide​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Midwest Region: #1 Houston Cougars vs. #2 Tennessee Volunteers​</li>
</ul>
This after the respective teams defeated their opponents in the Sweet Sixteen. Duke superstar freshman Cooper Flagg took the center of the spotlight with an outstanding performance of 30 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 blocks against Arizona.
Notably, all four No. 1 seeds&mdash;Auburn, Florida, Duke, and Houston&mdash;have advanced to the Elite Eight, underscoring their dominance throughout the tournament.
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) boasts a strong presence, with four teams&mdash;Auburn, Florida, Alabama, and Tennessee&mdash;competing in this stage. ​\\
These matchups promise high-caliber basketball as teams vie for a coveted spot in the Final Four, as fans anticipate the intense competition and memorable moments as the tournament progresses.​

The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament has reached the Elite Eight stage, featuring a mix of top seeds and formidable challengers.

March Madness 2025: Elite Eight set for NCAA Men's Basketball

The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament has reached the Sweet Sixteen stage, highlighted by Duke's commanding victory over Baylor and the elimination of reigning champions UConn.​
In their second-round matchup, the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils showcased their dominance against the No. 9 seed Baylor Bears. The game, played on March 23, 2025, saw Duke's offense and defense operating at peak performance, leading to a decisive win. Fans can view extended highlights of this game on the NCAA's official website.
Conversely, the University of Connecticut Huskies, aiming for a third consecutive national title, faced a narrow defeat against the No. 1 seed Florida Gators. The intense game concluded with a 77-75 victory for Florida, ending UConn's bid for a third consecutive national title.&nbsp;
The tournament now advances to the Sweet Sixteen, with matchups scheduled as follows:​
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Purdue Boilermakers vs Houston Cougars</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Michigan Wolverines vs Auburn Tigers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kentucky Wildcats vs Tennessee Volunteers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ole Miss Rebels vs Michigan State Spartans</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Arkansas Razorbacks vs Texas Tech Red Raiders</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Arizona Wildcats vs Duke Blue Devils</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Maryland Terrapins vs Florida Gators</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">BYU Cougars vs Alabama Crimson Tide</li>
</ul>
As the competition intensifies, fans eagerly anticipate the forthcoming games that will determine the teams advancing to the Elite Eight.​

The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament has reached the Sweet Sixteen stage, with the games starting today, March 28, 2025.

March Madness 2025: The Sweet Sixteen commences

The Milwaukee Bucks have obtained guard Kevin Porter Jr. from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for forward MarJon Beauchamp, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
Trade Details:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Milwaukee Bucks Receive:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Kevin Porter Jr.</li>
</ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Los Angeles Clippers Receive:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">MarJon Beauchamp</li>
</ul>
</ul>
ANALYSIS: The Bucks finally get their backup PG to Damian Lillard in Kevin Porter Jr. Porter Jr., 24, has had a tumultuous NBA career, including legal issues and team changes. He was drafted 30th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2019 before being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Porter later joined the Houston Rockets, where he showcased his dynamic offensive skills and ability to create for teammates. His growth as a scorer and ball-handler has made him a promising young player in the Rockets&rsquo; lineup.&nbsp;
MarJon Beauchamp, 23, has shown promise as a versatile forward with defensive capabilities. His addition to the Clippers is expected to bolster their wing depth or as an insurance being a young developmental talent.
This trade reflects the Bucks' strategy to enhance their backcourt depth and offensive versatility, while the Clippers aim to strengthen their forward rotation with young talent.

The Milwaukee Bucks have obtained guard Kevin Porter Jr. from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for forward MarJon Beauchamp.

Bucks obtain Kevin Porter Jr. from Clippers for MarJon Beauchamp

The Philadelphia 76ers have traded veteran guard Reggie Jackson to the Washington Wizards in exchange for guard Jared Butler and multiple draft picks, according to NBA reporter Marc Stein.
Trade Details:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Philadelphia 76ers Receive:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Jared Butler</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">2027 second (most favorable of Golden St. and Phoenix)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">2028 second (Golden State)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">2030 second (most favorable of Phoenix and Portland)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">2030 second (Washington)</li>
</ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Washington Wizards Receive:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Reggie Jackson</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">First round: Less favorable of Oklahoma City, Houston (if 5-30) and LA Clippers (2026)</li>
</ul>
</ul>
ANALYSIS: Reggie Jackson, 34, joined the Sixers in July 2024 after a buyout with the Charlotte Hornets. During his tenure with Philadelphia, he averaged 4.4 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game.&nbsp;
Jared Butler, currently on a two-way contract, has shown promise with the Wizards this season. The Sixers anticipate that Butler will provide depth to their backcourt and view the additional draft picks as valuable assets for future transactions or talent acquisition.&nbsp;
This trade marks the Sixers' third transaction leading up to the 2025 NBA trade deadline, reflecting their strategy to rejuvenate the roster and enhance future flexibility. This should also mean the Sixers are looking ahead not just this season but for more seasons beyond. They are currently standing 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 20-30 record.

The Philadelphia 76ers have traded veteran guard Reggie Jackson to the Washington Wizards.