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          <title>NBA Stories</title>
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          <copyright>Field Level Media 2026 - All Rights Reserved</copyright>
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          <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:32:43 EST</pubDate>
          <lastBuildDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:32:43 EST</lastBuildDate>
          <managingEditor>jreynolds@fieldlevelmedia.com (Jeff Reynolds)</managingEditor>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Reports: Bam Adebayo punches ex-Heat teammate Tyler Herro</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=261259</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Bam Adebayo punched his former Miami Heat teammate Tyler Herro during a brief altercation in Las Vegas on Friday, ESPN and The Athletic reported.

Both the Heat and the Milwaukee Bucks, Herro's new team, confirmed to The Athletic that they were made aware of the situation, but they declined further comment.

Reports said the exchange took place on a practice court inside a hotel in Las Vegas, where NBA Summer League games are being held. Herro was with an AAU team that he runs. Adebayo approached him on the court and, after Herro said something to his ex-teammate, punched him in the "head area," per ESPN.

Security at the court escorted Herro away, Adebayo also left on his own and Las Vegas police officers were not summoned to the scene, The Athletic reported.

Not long after the incident, but before knowledge of it became public, Herro participated in an interview with Amazon Prime Video ahead of a game between Miami's and Milwaukee's summer league teams.

"It's all love. It's all love in Miami," Herro said. "I've seen a couple of the guys, and the coaching staff. Chris Quinn, Spo (Erik Spoelstra), front office guys. We are all good in Miami and just the opportunity for both sides to reset, get a fresh start and we're both super happy for this."

However, last week a series of direct messages between Herro and an anonymous fan leaked, showing Herro taking an apparent swipe at Adebayo's defense.

"You should get paid 60 million to be a top tier defender on some nights? I'm just wondering," Herro allegedly says in the messages.

The Bucks dealt Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis to the Heat for Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, three first-round draft picks, a second-rounder and a pick swap.

Adebayo, 28, has played his full nine-year NBA career with the Heat and was teammates with Herro for the past seven seasons. Adebayo broke out for 83 points on March 10 against the Washington Wizards, surpassing Kobe Bryant for the second-highest scoring individual performance in NBA history.

Adebayo, who signed a three-year, $166 million extension with Miami in June 2024, had 20.1 points and 10.0 rebounds per game in 73 games this past season. Herro, 26, averaged 20.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists but played just 33 games due to injuries.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:30:18 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Washington Wizards at Miami Heat</media:title>
                    <media:description>Mar 10, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA;  Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) celebrates with guards Pelle Larsson and Tyler Herro after becoming the NBA's second highest scorer of points in a game against the Wshington Wizards at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Rhona Wise-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>adebayo herro</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <category>celebrity</category>
               <title>Spurs sign Victor Wembanyama for reported 5 years, $252M</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=261251</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Hours after he told Spurs fans he was "here to stay," Victor Wembanyama signed a multiyear contract extension with San Antonio that ESPN reported is for five years and $252 million.

The deal, which is worth $50.4 million per year, is the NBA's maximum rookie-scale extension and carries a player option for the fifth season.

"Spurs family, I'm here to stay," Wembanyama tweeted Friday. "Whatever it takes."

The Spurs, who did not confirm financial details, published photos and videos of Wembanyama inking his contract.



Wembanyama has been viewed as one of the elite young players in the sport going back before the Spurs selected him No. 1 overall in the 2023 NBA Draft. The 7-foot-4 center with an 8-foot wingspan has averaged 23.4 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 3.5 blocks per game through three NBA seasons (181 games).

The Defensive Player of the Year and a first-time All-NBA first-team selection, Wembanyama finished third in MVP balloting this season after putting up career highs of 25.0 points and 11.5 rebounds per game. He is a career 34.2% 3-point shooter who has made 2.2 triples per game, and he's led the league in blocks in every season since his arrival.

The Spurs fell to the New York Knicks in five games last month in Wembanyama's first NBA Finals. The current pieces around him include guards De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell and Dylan Harper, and the Spurs recently signed veteran forward Tobias Harris.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 19:47:19 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Finals-New York Knicks at San Antonio Spurs</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jun 13, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots the ball over New York Knicks forward Og Anunoby (8) during the third quarter during game five of the 2026 NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Geoff Burke-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>wembanyama shoots</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>NBA nixes Kawhi Leonard trade to Raptors pending investigation in Clippers </title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=261170</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[An eventual Toronto homecoming might happen for Kawhi Leonard this summer, but a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers back to the Raptors is on hold while the NBA completes its investigation into allegations of impermissible payments to skirt salary-cap rules and fines. 

In September 2025 the NBA said it was looking into the Clippers for potential violations tied to an allegation they used a company, Aspiration, to pay Leonard $28 million. Nothing was asked of Leonard in the "no-show job" which left open concern it was a loophole to pad the amount of guaranteed money the Clippers offered when they signed him as a free agent.

The Raptors, who lost Leonard in that agreement after winning the NBA championship, said in a statement the trade agreed to on June 30 in principle wasn't off, but the NBA made it clear Toronto "would assume the risk of any potential outcome of the investigation impacting Kawhi."

"In light of this," the Raptors said, "we will wait until the league's investigation is complete."

The Clippers also confirmed the deal was on hold on Thursday, which brings a trove of roster-related questions and complexities for each franchise. 

Leonard and the Clippers are staying together until the NBA completes the investigation which is 10 months running. The Clippers again denied in a statement Thursday any wrongdoing.

"For the past 10 months, our organization has fully cooperated with an NBA investigation, participating in dozens of interviews, providing tens of thousands of documents, and facilitating access to our staff. While the process has been challenging, we have remained committed to transparency," the Clippers said in a statement. "On June 30, we reached an agreement in principle to trade Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors. We have since been informed that the trade can only be finalized if the Raptors' ownership group assumes the risk of penalties related to Kawhi's contract that could theoretically result from the ongoing investigation. The investigation is ongoing, and we expect the trade to be finalized following its conclusion.

"At the heart of this investigation are Joe Sanberg and Aspiration. We did not funnel money to Kawhi Leonard through Aspiration. Like many sophisticated investors, financial institutions, and business partners, we were victims of a fraud initiated by Sanberg, who has been convicted and sentenced to 14 years in prison."

ESPN also reported Thursday afternoon both teams expect the deal to eventually be finalized with punishment for any violations as established by the NBA likely to include monetary fines and loss of draft picks. 

Terms of the in-limbo trade had handshake approval on either side with the Clippers receiving All-Star forward Brandon Ingram, third-year guard Gradey Dick, two first-round draft picks, one pick swap and two second-round selections in the deal.

Leonard, who turned 35 on Monday, is a two-time NBA Finals MVP. He led the Raptors past the Golden State Warriors in six games, averaging 28.5 points and 9.8 rebounds in the series that delivered Toronto's only NBA title to date.

Leonard averaged 26.6 points and 7.3 rebounds in 60 games with Toronto in 2018-19, his lone season with the team before moving on to the Clippers.

During his seven seasons in Los Angeles, he appeared in only 59.7% of the Clippers' regular-season games (331 of 554) due to a string of injuries. But Leonard capped his run with his finest season since his 2019-20 debut with the Clippers. He averaged a career-high 27.9 points along with 6.4 rebounds in 65 games to earn seventh place in the league's Most Valuable Player voting as well as his seventh All-Star Game nod.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:14:31 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Golden State Warriors at Los Angeles Clippers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 15, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) leaves the court after being defeated by the Golden State Warriors during the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Kawhi Leonard</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>G Jordan Clarkson agrees to return to Knicks on 1-year deal</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=261146</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Free agent guard Jordan Clarkson agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million contract to return to the New York Knicks, his agent and Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul announced on Thursday.

The deal is the veteran's minimum for Clarkson, who is five years removed from being selected the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year.

Clarkson, 34, averaged 8.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 72 games (one start) with the Knicks last season.

A second-round draft pick of the Washington Wizards in 2014, Clarkson immediately was dealt to the Lakers. He played 3 1/2 seasons in Los Angeles, then parts of three seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers before he was traded to the Utah Jazz in December 2019.

In 825 games (232 starts), Clarkson owns NBA averages of 15.3 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 12:50:09 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Finals-San Antonio Spurs at New York Knicks</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jun 10, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson (00) controls the ball against the San Antonio Spurs in the second quarter during game four of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Jordan Clarkson</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Hawks hire ex-NBA writer, podcaster in front-office role</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=261073</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Former NBA journalist Tim Bontemps is joining the front office of the Atlanta Hawks.

The 41-year-old was named strategic adviser to Hawks president of basketball operations Onsi Saleh. Saleh was promoted in May from his position of general manager.

Bontemps, co-host of "The Hoop Collective" podcast, has worked for ESPN, The Washington Post and New York Post covering the NBA since 2012.

He's the second hoops journalist to cross over to an NBA front office.

Another former ESPN writer, 36-year-old Mike Schmitz, was named general manager of the Dallas Mavericks under new team president Masai Ujiri. Schmitz, who played basketball at Arizona, describes himself as a self-taught scout who previously worked for Draft Express, Yahoo and as assistant general manager of the Portland Trail Blazers.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:28:48 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Atlanta Hawks at New Orleans Pelicans</media:title>
                    <media:description>Nov 3, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA;  Detailed view of the Atlanta Hawks logo during warmups before the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Stephen Lew-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>atlanta hawks logo</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Caris LeVert to Bucks, Khris Middleton to Wizards in 6-team trade</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=261036</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Detroit Pistons are sending veteran guard Caris LeVert and two second-round picks to the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for Taurean Prince and Gary Harris, ESPN reported on Tuesday.

The trade is part of a larger six-team deal ESPN reported on which includes veteran guard Khris Middleton returning to the Washington Wizards on a three-year, $17.6 million sign-and-trade agreement with the Dallas Mavericks.

LeVert, 31, is halfway through a two-year, $29 million contract he signed last offseason with Detroit. He averaged career lows of 7.4 points, 2.0 rebounds and 19.2 minutes per game, well below his career averages of 13.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and 26.9 minutes per game over 10 NBA seasons and 584 games (223 starts) with the Brooklyn Nets (2016-21), Indiana Pacers (2021-22), Cleveland Cavaliers (2022-24), Atlanta Hawks (2024-25) and Pistons.

Sending LeVert to Milwaukee gives the Pistons a trade exception along with Price and Harris.

Prince, 32, averaged 9.2 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.8 assists while shooting 43.6% from 3-point range last season for Milwaukee. He was limited to 26 games due to a herniated disk in his neck. Over 10 seasons, he's averaged 9.8 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists over 608 games (351 starts) with the Hawks (2016-2019), Nets (2019-21), Cavaliers (2021), Minnesota Timberwolves (2021-23), Los Angeles Lakers (2023-24) and Bucks (2024-26).

Harris, 31, averaged 2.7 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game in his lone season with Milwaukee over 48 games (two starts). His production has fallen off the last few seasons, but he has career averages of 9.9 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists over 666 games (448 starts) with the Denver Nuggets (2014-21), Orlando Magic (2021-25) and Bucks. 

Middleton, 34, returns to Washington after he was moved to Dallas at the trade deadline in the deal which helped the Wizards acquire Anthony Davis. He spent parts of two seasons with Washington, averaging 10.4 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 31.5% from 3-point range.

Over 839 career games (721 starts) across 14 seasons, Middleton is averaging 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game while making 38.5% of shots from beyond the arc. His 1,476 3-point field goals are ranked 62nd all-time in NBA history. 

Other previously reported trades involved in this multi-angle deal include John Collins joining the Pistons, the Memphis Grizzlies acquiring Isaiah Stewart and Dallas picking up Santi Aldama.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 21:23:13 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Detroit Pistons at Cleveland Cavaliers</media:title>
                    <media:description>May 9, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Caris LeVert (8) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Max Strus (2) during the first half of game three in the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Ken Blaze-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>caris levert</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Lakers sign Kevon Looney, remain interested in Jonathan Kuminga</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=261026</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Los Angeles Lakers added another veteran to their rebuilt frontcourt Tuesday, agreeing to a one-year contract with center Kevon Looney.

The deal is worth $3.9 million, Looney's agent told ESPN. The 30-year-old is expected to back up the newly acquired Walker Kessler after Los Angeles traded Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards last week.

Looney spent last season with the New Orleans Pelicans after playing his first 10 NBA seasons with the Golden State Warriors. He won three championships with Golden State and built his reputation as a reliable rebounder, screener and interior defender. In 21 games with the Pelicans, Looney averaged 2.8 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists in just under 15 minutes per game.

The UCLA product owns career averages of 4.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists. His value has often extended beyond his scoring, particularly during Golden State's playoff runs, when he provided the Warriors with rebounding and defensive versatility in the frontcourt.

The Lakers have been busy reshaping the roster around Luka Doncic, adding Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton before reaching an agreement with Looney.

Los Angeles is also continuing its pursuit of unrestricted free-agent forward Jonathan Kuminga, Looney's former teammate in Golden State. The Lakers have remained in contact with Kuminga's representatives after general manager Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick met with him virtually and outlined a potential major role alongside Doncic, according to ESPN.

The Lakers have one roster spot remaining after the deal with Looney, though their limited financial flexibility could make adding Kuminga more complicated without a sign-and-trade arrangement. Kuminga, who averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists with the Warriors and Atlanta Hawks last season, became a free agent when Atlanta declined his $24.3 million team option last month.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:35:40 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: New Orleans Pelicans at Utah Jazz</media:title>
                    <media:description>Feb 28, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA;  New Orleans Pelicans forward Kevon Looney (55) warms up before the game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Kevon Looney</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: Knicks' Jalen Brunson undergoes wrist surgery</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=261005</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Knicks star Jalen Brunson is recovering from surgery on his injured left wrist, The Athletic reported on Tuesday.

The All-Star point guard experienced discomfort during New York's run to the NBA championship last month.

Brunson, 29, is expected to resume basketball activities later this summer, according to the report.

The Finals MVP averaged a league-high 28.4 points during the Knicks' 16-3 playoff march to their first title in 53 years.

Brunson averaged 26.0 points, 6.8 assists and 3.3 rebounds in 74 games (all starts) during the regular season.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:06:10 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Finals-San Antonio Spurs at New York Knicks</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jun 10, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) reacts during the second quarter of game four of the 2026 NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>jalen brunson react</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Kyle Lowry retires with Raptors after 20 NBA seasons</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260996</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Kyle Lowry rejoined the Raptors to retire as a member of the organization on Tuesday, officially ending his 20-year NBA career.

The 40-year-old point guard, who wore No. 7 for Toronto and helped the franchise win the 2019 NBA championship, made it official on the date 7-7.

"Thank you to my family, my friends, my teammates, my coaches, my opponents, the staff, the media and especially the fans," Lowry posted on social media Tuesday. "It's all about you. I appreciate you. Thank you. Thank you, Toronto. Thank you, Canada. And as I always told y'all, it's officially happening. I'm retiring as a Toronto Raptor -- 20 years and 1 day. Seven forever. I love y'all. Peace."

Lowry was selected to the All-Star Game six times in nine seasons with the Raptors. He also played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Houston Rockets and Miami Heat and spent the majority of his final three seasons with his hometown team, the Philadelphia 76ers, also working as an NBA analyst for Amazon.

A Villanova product drafted 24th overall by Memphis in 2006, Lowry played in 1,187 career regular-season games and averaged 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 6.0 assists.

Lowry signed a ceremonial one-day contract and is one of two point guards with 20 NBA seasons played (Chris Paul). Mike Conley, who signed a free agent deal with the Boston Celtics last week, can become the third by suiting up for a regular-season game in 2026-27.

Lowry wasn't idle for long. The WNBA's Toronto Tempo announced Tuesday that he and his wife, Ayahna Cornish-Lowry, had joined the 2026 expansion club's ownership group.

"We are a huge basketball family and have been big supporters of the WNBA since day one," the couple said in a statement. "This feels like a true full circle moment to announce our ownership in the Tempo. We're excited to help build something special in Toronto, inspire the next generation of athletes and fans, and support the continued growth of women's basketball in Canada."

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:33:52 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Toronto Raptors-Championship Parade</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jun 17, 2019; Toronto, Ontario, Canada;  Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry shows off the Larry O'Brien trophy to fans during a parade through downtown Toronto to celebrate their NBA title. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>kyle lowry raptors 2019 celebrate</media:keywords>
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Cavaliers G Donovan Mitchell signs $273M max extension</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260994</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[All-NBA star guard Donovan Mitchell has agreed on a four-year, $273 million maximum contract extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Mitchell's representation, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), confirmed the details Tuesday morning with ESPN. The deal also includes a player option for the 2030-31 season and a full trade kicker.

This marks the second extension for Mitchell since he arrived in Cleveland in 2022.

Mitchell, 29, averaged 27.9 points, 5.7 assists and 4.5 rebounds in 70 games (all starts) in 2025-26. He was named to the All-Star Game for the seventh straight season -- including all four years with Cleveland.

An All-NBA selection on three occasions, Mitchell has contributed 25.1 points, 4.8 assists and 4.3 rebounds in 609 career games (601 starts) with the Utah Jazz (2017-22) and Cavaliers.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:05:37 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260994.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28687335.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Atlanta Hawks at Cleveland Cavaliers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 8, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) celebrates in the third quarter against the Atlanta Hawks at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">David Richard-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>donovan mitchell celebrate</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28687335.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Nikola Jokic on Nuggets extension: ‘I’ll probably sign next year’</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260972</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic told reporters in his native Serbia that he wants to be a Denver Nugget for life, but he's not rushing into a contract extension this offseason.

"My idea is to sign next summer and stay with Denver for the rest of my career," Jokic told reporters in Serbian after a FIBA World Cup qualifying game Monday. "My idea and desire is to stay in Denver. I'll probably sign next year. ... My desire is to play the rest of my life in Denver."

According to ESPN, Jokic becomes eligible for a five-year, $359.5 million contract in the summer of 2027, which would be the most lucrative deal in NBA history.

That's enough reason for Jokic, 31, to skip past the max extension he is currently eligible for (four years, $278 million).

The center led the NBA in rebounding (12.9 per game) and assists (career-high 10.7 per game) while scoring 27.7 points per contest in 65 games for the Nuggets in 2025-26. He finished runner-up in MVP balloting to Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the second straight season after winning the award in 2021, 2022 and 2024.

Jokic guided the Nuggets to the 2023 league title, but despite finishing the 2025-26 season third in the Western Conference they were knocked out of the playoffs in a six-game, first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Jokic tallied 20 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists for host Serbia on Monday in a 94-81 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in Belgrade, part of qualifying for the 2027 FIBA World Cup.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:55:52 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260972.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28851256.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Denver Nuggets at Minnesota Timberwolves</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 30, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) looks on against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second half during game six of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>nikola jokic</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28851256.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>76ers officially announce acquisition of Jaylen Brown from Celtics</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260942</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Philadelphia 76ers officially unveiled their revamped roster Monday, completing the blockbuster trade for Jaylen Brown while also confirming the signing of free-agent guard Anfernee Simons.

Philadelphia announced the acquisition of Brown from the Boston Celtics, sending veteran forward Paul George, two first-round picks and two second-round picks to its longtime division rival. The 76ers also confirmed the signing of Simons, adding another perimeter option to a group now built around Brown, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe.

Brown, 29, arrives after spending his first 10 NBA seasons in Boston, where he became a five-time All-Star, two-time All-NBA second-team selection and the 2024 NBA Finals MVP. The third overall pick in the 2016 draft averaged a career-best 28.7 points last season, the fourth-highest mark in the league, while adding career highs in rebounds (6.9) and assists (5.1).

Over his career, Brown has averaged 20.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.0 steals, shooting 47.8% from the field and 35.8% from 3-point range in 674 regular-season games (567 starts). He has three years remaining on the five-year, $285 million supermax deal he signed with Boston in 2023. 

"I'm excited to begin this next chapter in Philly," Brown said. "From every conversation I've had, it's clear this is a group that's hungry, competitive and committed to winning; and that's the kind of environment I've always embraced."

The 76ers are betting on Brown's two-way game and postseason resume after a decade in Boston that included 142 playoff appearances (122 starts) and a championship run. Since entering the league in 2016, Brown's 523 combined regular-season and playoff win total is the highest in the NBA.

Philadelphia managing partner Josh Harris called Brown "one of the best two-way players in the league," while thanking George for his time with the organization.

George, 36, spent two seasons with the 76ers, averaging 16.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.8 steals in 78 total games. He now heads to Boston along with a package that includes Philadelphia's unprotected 2031 first-round pick, a top-16 protected 2028 first-round pick tied to the Los Angeles Clippers, and second-round selections in 2028 and 2030.

George has averaged 20.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 6.2 assists and 1.7 steals, shotting 44.0% from the field and 38.4% from 3-point range in 945 career games with the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Clippers and 76ers.  

Simons, 27, gives Philadelphia another shooter after averaging 14.3 points in 55 games with Boston and Chicago last season. The 27-year-old shot 38.5% from 3-point range and has hit at least 36% from deep in each of the past six seasons. While terms of the contract were not disclosed, ESPN reported it's a two-year deal worth $12.3 million with a player option for the second season.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:24:56 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260942.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28865679.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Philadelphia 76ers at Boston Celtics</media:title>
                    <media:description>May 2, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) on the court before game seven of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Winslow Townson-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Jaylen Brown</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28865679.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Celtics owner admits 'fan' in him didn't like trading Jaylen Brown</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260941</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Owner Bill Chisholm admitted the Celtics' front office worked hard to persuade him that trading Jaylen Brown was the best path to winning. 

"The fan in me," Chisholm said Monday in a joint press conference with team president Brad Stevens. "It was really tough. I'm accountable for it. Brad's accountable to me for it. They came to the conclusion, they convinced me, this was the best way to win. I got there."

Chisholm denied the Celtics are taking a reputation hit by trading Brown, which he said would be "unacceptable," even if most opinions on the deal that sent Brown to the division rival Philadelphia 76ers for Paul George and draft picks haven't painted Boston in a positive light. 

"We have to be the best. We want to be the best place for players to play," Chisholm said. "Whether perception becomes reality, we have to deal with that, but that's not my take on how these things went down."

Initial talks involved the Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat and others. Stevens said the Celtics spent a lot of time on trade offers and reviewed what alternatives might look like before trading Brown, a five-time All-Star, for George and multiple draft picks. 

"This was all about basically trying to win. I think we have the best front office in the NBA," Chisholm said. "That's the mandate, was to win. We'll spend whatever it takes to do that."

Stevens admitted there is no immediate financial relief from the deal and it was a "hard decision," admitting he understands why the trade wouldn't be popular in "many circles." Analytics guru Michael Zarren was part of the discussions.

"It was a really hard call. We understood that coming into it. That's something you have to consider and weigh," Stevens said. "You take in every angle and every ounce of information that you have and you put it all together. For me and Mike and his staff might get mad at me, (analytics) was a small piece of information for me. We did the deal because we got Paul George and we got draft assets."

Brown said on his livestream reaction to the trade "things went left" after what he felt were good talks with the Celtics about the future. 

"If he feels that way, I'm sorry about that. I really am," Stevens said. "As I said, we had a lot of open discussions about here or elsewhere. He and, at least his agent, were well aware of even teams that had the most cursory of interest. That was well-communicated or at least communicated. I'm sorry that he would feel that way."

Brown, 29, was fourth in the league in scoring in 2025-26 at 28.7 points per game. He finished sixth in NBA MVP voting last season, working most of the year as the primary offensive option while Jayson Tatum recovered from Achilles surgery.

Stevens clarified that even following the trade there are still no cost-cutting mandates coming from Chisholm, who was seated to his immediate left. He said the Celtics are still shopping for a player who could fill the mid-level exception of around $10 million.

George entered the NBA in 2010 with the Pacers and turned 36 in May. The nine-time All-Star averaged 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game last season but has played more than 56 games in a season only once -- 74 in 2023-24 with the Clippers -- since 2019. 

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:05:00 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260941.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/27199944.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Boston Celtics-Media Day</media:title>
                    <media:description>Sep 29, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens talks to reporters during media day at the Auerbach Center. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">David Butler II-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Brad Stevens</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/27199944.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: Kings waive veteran F DeMar DeRozan</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260936</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Sacramento Kings waived veteran forward DeMar DeRozan on Monday after both sides worked to resolve a partial guarantee in his contract for next season, ESPN reported.

The move is expected to make DeRozan one of the top free agents on market after playing for 17 seasons, including the past three with the Kings.

A six-time All-Star, DeRozan averaged 18.4 points with 2.9 rebounds and 4.1 assists in 77 games (all starts) for the Kings last season at age 36.

DeRozan is the 16th leading scorer in NBA history with 26,711 career points.

He has scored 21.1 points with 4.3 rebounds and 4.1 assists in 1,264 career games (1,252 starts). The ninth overall selection in the 2009 NBA Draft out of Southern California, DeRozan has played for the Toronto Raptors (2009-18), San Antonio Spurs (2018-21), Chicago Bulls (2021-24) and Kings.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:56:31 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260936.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/27277960.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Preseason-Toronto Raptors at Sacramento Kings</media:title>
                    <media:description>Oct 8, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings guard/forward Demar Derozan (10) reacts during the first quarter against the Toronto Raptors at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>DeMar DeRozan reacts</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/27277960.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
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          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Giannis Antetokounmpo trade to Heat becomes official</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260933</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Miami Heat's new era now begins after Giannis Antetokounmpo's trade from the Milwaukee Bucks became official Monday.

The Heat sent the Bucks a package featuring guard Tyler Herro, center Kel'el Ware, forward Jaime Jaquez Jr., guard Kasparas Jakucionis, 2026 first-round draft pick Nate Ament, a big man from Tennessee (No. 13 overall), further first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, a pick swap in 2030 and a 2033 second-round selection.

Milwaukee also is sending forward Bobby Portis to Miami to complete a deal that first was reported June 22.

Antetokounmpo posted a farewell video to Milwaukee on social media.

"The city of Milwaukee will always be in my heart," Antetokounmpo said, in part. "This is my home. And this is a place that I had my kids. My mom is here. My father is here. My brothers played here. It made me the man that I am today. That will never, ever change."

Bucks general manager Jon Horst released a statement on Antetokounmpo's successful tenure with the team, while addressing Bucks fans.

"We watched Giannis embrace Milwaukee as his home and forge a connection with Bucks fans that transcended basketball," Horst wrote. "He became an ambassador for our city around the world and a source of pride for our entire state. ... On behalf of our entire organization, please join us in expressing our deepest gratitude to Giannis and his family."

Antetokounmpo, 31, was the subject of trade rumors for more than a year. He is under contract for 2026-27 with a $58.5 million cap hit and has a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28, according to Spotrac.

The 10-time All-Star played a career-low 36 games in 2025-26 and Milwaukee missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2015-16 season. Antetokounmpo hyperextended his left knee on March 15 and was shut down for the rest of the season, though he feuded with the team regarding his health.

Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to an NBA championship in 2021 and is the franchise's all-time leader in games played (895), points (21,531), rebounds (8,882), assists (4,484) and blocked shots (1,088).

Herro, 26, averaged 20.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists in 33 games (28 starts) last season, when he was slowed by multiple injuries. Through seven NBA seasons, he has career averages of 19.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.1 assists.

Ware, 22, logged career highs of 11.1 points and 9.0 rebounds per contest last season in his second NBA campaign.

Jaquez, 25, was the runner-up to the San Antonio Spurs' Keldon Johnson in Sixth Man of the Year voting last season. In his third NBA campaign, he produced 15.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game, all improvements on his career 12.1, 4.4 and 3.3 figures, respectively.

Jakucionis, 20, contributed 6.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 53 games (12 starts) as a rookie for Miami last season.

The four veteran players headed to the Bucks had played all of their NBA careers with the Heat.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:43:50 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260933.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/27707625.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Brooklyn Nets at Milwaukee Bucks</media:title>
                    <media:description>Nov 29, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts after scoring his 21,000th career point in the third quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Benny Sieu-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Antetokounmpo reacts</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/27707625.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
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          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Giannis Antetokounmpo bids farewell to Milwaukee in touching video</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260931</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[While the giant Giannis Antetokounmpo mural in downtown Milwaukee remains, the star player himself bid farewell to the city with a video posted to social media.

The slick production is narrated by Antetokounmpo as highlights and moving moments from his career flash on the screen.

It comes after Antrokounmpo officially was traded to the Miami Heat for four players, three first-round draft picks and other compensation.

"The city of Milwaukee and the state of Wisconsin, I want them to remember this from me," Antetokounmpo begins. ""Don't worry about the basket. Don't worry about the championship. Don't worry about the wins. Don't worry about the losses.

"I tried to be like them. I believe the city of Milwaukee is blue-collar. It's people that work extremely hard every single day. They give all their hard-earned money, just to come watch the Milwaukee Bucks. To come and feel something. To come to be a part of us.

"I hope that I was able to represent them, the best that I could. And I was like them. I showed up to work, did everything. I was willing to do all the dirty work, just like them."

In 13 seasons in Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo won two MVP awards, along with a most-improved-player award and a defensive-player-of-the-year honor. Known as "The Greek Freak," he guided the Bucks to the NBA title in 2021, the franchise's first championship since 1971.

Over 895 regular-season games (830 starts), the 31-year-old averaged 24.1 points with 9.9 rebounds and 5.0 assists after he was the 15th overall selection in the 2013 draft. In 84 playoff games, he averaged 33.0 points with 15.4 points and 6.6 assists. He was a 10-time All-Star.

His message to the city continued in the video:

"I hope that bringing a trophy to the city meant something to them, because it meant so much to me.

"I want you to hear it from my mouth. The city of Milwaukee will always be in my heart. This is my home. And this is a place that I had my kids. My mom is here. My father is here. My brothers played here. It made me the man that I am today. That will never, ever change.

"No matter where I am, Milwaukee will always be my city, my team, my family."

The video ends with a young Antetokounmpo declaring that he wants to be an NBA player one day and NBA commissioner David Stern announcing his name during the 2013 draft.

As the video made the rounds, Bucks general manager Jon Horst chimed in to explain the trade.

"This decision is in the best interest of both the Bucks and Giannis," Horst wrote in a letter to Milwaukee fans. "I understand the emotions this news brings, and I share them. I'm confident our path forward provides a strong foundation for sustained success. As we begin the next chapter of Bucks basketball, we do so with optimism, purpose and a clear vision to build on our standard of excellence while strengthening our competitive identity and winning culture under the leadership of our new head coach, Taylor Jenkins."

A longer version of the interview where Antetokounmpo's narration came from is available at his YouTube channel.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:12:09 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260931.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-756nw/28020088.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="756">
                    <media:title>Syndication: USA TODAY</media:title>
                    <media:description>The mural of Milwaukee Buck Giannis Antetokounmpo on the side the 600 EAST building Mike De Sisti / The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Mike De Sisti/The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Antetokounmpo mural</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28020088.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Hawks acquire G Aaron Wiggins in trade with Thunder</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260930</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Atlanta Hawks acquired guard Aaron Wiggins from the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday in exchange for second-round draft picks in 2030 and 2032.

Wiggins, 27, was a second-round draft pick by the Thunder in 2021 and made 35 starts the following season as a rookie when he averaged 8.3 points with 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 50 total games.

During the Thunder's championship season of 2024-25, Wiggins made 26 regular-season starts then played in 22 of 23 playoff games as Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in a seven-game NBA Finals.

Wiggins has averaged 8.7 points with 3.2 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 339 regular-season games (100 starts) over the past five seasons. He has averaged 4.7 points, 2.9 rebounds and 0.8 assists in 45 playoff games over nine separate series.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:15:02 EST</pubDate>
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               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-796nw/28841128.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="796">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Oklahoma City Thunder at Phoenix Suns</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Aaron Wiggins (21) against the Phoenix Suns during game four of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Aaron WIggins</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28841128.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: Clippers sign Rui Hachimura to 2-year, $28M deal</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260925</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Free agent forward Rui Hachimura is jumping across town from the Lakers to the Clippers on a two-year, $28 million deal, ESPN reported Monday.

Hachimura has spent the past three-plus seasons in Los Angeles, averaging 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds in 68 games (41 starts) for the Lakers in 2025-26.

He confirmed his departure with a farewell post to Lakers fans on Instagram.

"Thank you Lakers Nation for the past 3 years. We had some great moments and I will always remember the memories we made together," Hachimura wrote.

Hachimura, 28, has career averages of 12.6 points and 4.6 rebounds in 405 games (264 starts) with the Washington Wizards (2019-23) and Lakers.

The Wizards drafted the Gonzaga product with the ninth overall pick in 2019 and traded him to the Lakers on Jan. 23, 2023 for Kendrick Nunn and a package of draft picks.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:11:04 EST</pubDate>
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               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28843268.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Houston Rockets at Los Angeles Lakers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 29, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) controls the ball against the Houston Rockets during the first half in game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>rui hachimura</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28843268.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Quinten Post signing $30M offer sheet with Grizzlies</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260917</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Restricted free agent Quinten Post is signing a three-year, $30 million offer sheet with the Memphis Grizzlies, ESPN reported Monday.

The Golden State Warriors have until 11:59 p.m. ET on Tuesday to match the offer for the 26-year-old big man.

Post averaged 7.7 points and 4.0 rebounds and knocked down 93 3-pointers in 67 games (35 starts) for the Warriors in 2025-26.

The 7-footer has averaged 7.8 points and 3.8 rebounds while shooting 36.4% from beyond the arc in 109 games (49 starts) since Golden State drafted him in the second round (52nd overall) in 2024.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:39:15 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260917.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/27279355.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Preseason-Portland Trail Blazers at Golden State Warriors</media:title>
                    <media:description>Oct 8, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA;  Golden State Warriors center Quinten Post (21) reacts after hitting a three-point shot against the Portland Trail Blazers during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">John Hefti-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>quinten post react</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/27279355.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: Raptors, Kawhi Leonard to begin extension talks</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260914</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Toronto Raptors are expected to begin contract extension talks this week with forward Kawhi Leonard and his new agent, ESPN reported on Monday.

Leonard, 35, has one season and $50.3 million remaining on the three-year extension he signed in 2024 with the Los Angeles Clippers.

The previous deal was negotiated by Mitch Frankel, but the seven-time All-Star and two-time NBA Finals MVP has hired Harrison Gaines of SLASH Sports to oversee negotiations with Toronto, per the report.

Leonard is eligible to sign up to a two-year, $123.7 million extension as he rejoins the Raptors, per ESPN.

The Clippers agreed on June 30 to trade Leonard to the Raptors for veteran forward Brandon Ingram, third-year guard Gradey Dick and a package of draft picks. The trade can be made official on Monday.

Leonard averaged 26.6 points and 7.3 rebounds in 60 games (all starts) with Toronto in 2018-19, his lone season with the team before moving on to the Clippers. He was named Finals MVP after leading the Raptors to a six-game series victory over the Golden State Warriors.

After a string of injury-plagued seasons, Leonard averaged a career-high 27.9 points along with 6.4 rebounds in 65 games (all starts) last season to finish seventh in the MVP voting and earn his seventh All-Star nod.

The two-time Defensive Player of the Year has career averages of 20.7 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.7 steals in 798 games (769 starts) with the San Antonio Spurs (2011-18), Raptors and Clippers (2019-21, 2022-26).

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:11:35 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260914.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28737935.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Golden State Warriors at Los Angeles Clippers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 15, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) warms up prior to the game against the Golden State Warriors in the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>kawhi leonard warm</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28737935.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Mitchell Robinson: 'Moment of frustration' resulted in hand injury</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260874</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[New Boston Celtics center Mitchell Robinson revealed what caused his hand injury in a Facebook post Sunday morning, writing that hearing his brother was involved in a car accident caused him to bang his hand on his truck.

Robinson, 28, underwent surgery on his right pinkie finger days before Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The New York Knicks said at the time that Robinson was not injured at practice or in a game, but did not specify the nature of his injury.

Robinson played in all five games, averaging 3.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 13.4 minutes per game, as the Knicks took down the San Antonio Spurs for their first NBA title since 1973.

He wrote Sunday that he found out about the accident after the Knicks returned to New York following a sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference finals.

"As the eldest sibling, I felt a deep sense of concern, and I immediately went into panic mode," Robinson wrote. "I began returning calls and texts, and when I FaceTimed my brother, I thought he was deceased. He was wearing a neck brace, unresponsive, and not speaking. I broke down in tears, feeling like a failure for not being able to protect my siblings. Being 910 miles away, I felt helpless. In a moment of frustration, I banged my hand on my truck.

"As many of you know, I have a deep affection for my trucks, but my siblings and daughter are my top priority. Before judging someone, it is essential to understand their circumstances, which may not be publicly known. Life is unpredictable, and it is how we respond to challenges that truly matters."

Robinson agreed to a three-year, $47.4 million contract with the Celtics on Wednesday following eight seasons with the Knicks. In 397 games (215 starts), he's averaged 7.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game since the Knicks selected him in the second round of the 2018 draft.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:52:04 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260874.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/29255252.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: New York Knicks-Championship Parade</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jun 18, 2026; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson screams during the New York Knicks Championship Parade through the Canyon of Heroes. Mandatory Credit: Brenden Willsch-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Brenden Willsch-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Mitchell Robinson</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/29255252.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Patrick Ewing, Steve Clifford joining Wizards staff</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260817</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Patrick Ewing is returning to the coaching ranks, joining the Washington Wizards as an assistant to head coach Brian Keefe, ESPN reported on Saturday.

Ewing, 63, had been serving as an ambassador for the New York Knicks, with whom he starred from 1985-2000. His first coaching position came as an assistant with the Wizards in 2002-03 before holding the same role with the Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic and Charlotte Bobcats/Hornets.

Ewing will likely be called upon to share his expertise with veteran stars Trae Young and Anthony Davis while helping 2026 No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa adjust to NBA life. Ewing was also a No. 1 overall pick, in 1985 by the Knicks.

Per the report, former NBA head coach Steve Clifford is also joining the Wizards as a coaching advisor, a role he had held with the Phoenix Suns since August 2025. 

For Ewing and Clifford, 64, it's a reunion as the former Knicks legend was on head coach Clifford's staff with the Bobcats/Hornets from 2013-17.

Along with the Bobcats/Hornets (2013-18, 2022-24), Clifford coached the Orlando Magic (2018-21). He was an assistant with the Knicks, Magic, Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers before being hired by the Bobcats.

An NCAA champion in 1984 at Georgetown, Ewing returned to his alma mater as its head coach in 2017 and guided the Hoyas to the Big East tournament title at Madison Square Garden in 2021. He was relieved of his duties in 2023.

Ewing, who had his No. 33 jersey retired by the Knicks in 2003, leads the franchise in points, rebounds, blocks, steals and games played, and helped lead New York to the postseason in his final 13 seasons. 

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2026 21:42:01 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260817.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-755nw/29193247.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="755">
                    <media:title>NBA: Finals-New York Knicks at San Antonio Spurs</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jun 13, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Former New York Knicks player Patrick Ewing is seen prior to game five of the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Geoff Burke-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Patrick Ewing</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/29193247.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>No. 2 overall pick Darryn Peterson scores 28 in Summer League debut</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260815</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[No. 2 overall draft pick Darryn Peterson shined in his Summer League debut, scoring 28 points in 27 minutes to help the Utah Jazz notch a 103-102 overtime victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday at Salt Lake City.

Peterson has the microscope on him after a much-maligned one college season in which he dealt with repeated cramping issues and other injuries. The Jazz picked him after the Washington Wizards took BYU's AJ Dybantsa at No. 1 in the draft,

Peterson made 11 of 21 field-goal attempts, including 4 of 7 from 3-point range, and also contributed five rebounds and two blocked shots. On the downside, he committed eight turnovers.

Peterson pointed out the game was his first since Kansas lost in the second round of the NCAA Tournament against St. John's. He averaged 20.2 points last season but missed 11 of the Jayhawks' 35 games.

"It felt great," Peterson said. "I hadn't played since my last game in March. Playing another basketball game, this is what I love to do."

Utah's next game is Monday against the Memphis Grizzlies, also on the University of Utah campus.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2026 20:17:33 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260815.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-732nw/29255898.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="732">
                    <media:title>NBA: Draft</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jun 23, 2026; New York, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver greets the second pick in the 2026 NBA draft, Kansas guard Darryn Peterson after he was selected by the Utah Jazz at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Darryn Peterson</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/29255898.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Reports: C Andre Drummond agrees to 1-year deal with Knicks</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260735</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The New York Knicks have agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million deal with veteran center Andre Drummond, according to published reports on Friday.

Drummond, who turns 33 next month, will replace Mitchell Robinson, who spent eight seasons with New York and was a solid defender and key cog on the team that won the 2026 NBA Finals.

Drummond, a two-time All-Star, has played for six teams over 14 NBA seasons. He spent his first 7 1/2 seasons with the Detroit Pistons before bouncing around the league to five different teams.

Drummond averaged 6.4 points and 8.4 rebounds in 63 games (25 starts) for the Philadelphia 76ers last season.

Overall, Drummond has averages of 12.1 points, 11.9 rebounds and 1.2 blocked shots in 967 games (688 starts). He ranks eighth among active players with 1,197 blocked shots.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:11:44 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260735.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-734nw/28849519.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="734">
                    <media:title>NBA: Boston Celtics at Philadelphia 76ers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 30, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Andre Drummond (1) reacts to his score against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Bill Streicher-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>andre drummond</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28849519.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Wizards acquire C Deandre Ayton from Lakers</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260705</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Los Angeles Lakers are trading center Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for guard Jaden Hardy and two second-round draft picks, ESPN reported Friday.

The picks are in 2031 and 2032, per the report.

Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, averaged 12.5 points and 8.0 rebounds in 72 games (all starts) in his lone season with the Lakers in 2025-26.

Ayton, who turns 28 on July 23, has averaged 15.8 points and 10.1 rebounds in 470 career games (463 starts) with the Phoenix Suns (2018-23), Portland Trail Blazers (2023-25) and Lakers.

Hardy, who turns 24 on Sunday, split the 2025-26 season with the Dallas Mavericks and Wizards and averaged 9.2 points in 57 games (four starts).

A second-round pick in 2022, Hardy has averaged 8.4 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 235 games (19 starts) with the Mavericks (2022-26) and Wizards. He has canned 38.6% of his career 3-point attempts (324 of 839).

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 13:44:10 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260705.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-732nw/27428121.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="732">
                    <media:title>NBA: Los Angeles Lakers at Sacramento Kings</media:title>
                    <media:description>Oct 26, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) reacts to a call during the fourth quarter of the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>deandre ayton react</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/27428121.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Hornets acquire Dorian Finney-Smith, 3 picks from Rockets</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260704</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Charlotte Hornets are acquiring forward Dorian Finney-Smith and three second-round picks from the Houston Rockets, ESPN reported on Friday.

The Hornets are receiving the Memphis Grizzlies' 2027 second-rounder as well as the Rockets' 2028 and 2033 second-round selections.

The move gives Houston some roster flexibility and creates a $13 million trade exception, while Charlotte now has stockpiled 20 second-round picks over the next seven years, per ESPN.

Signed in June 2025 to a four-year, $53 million deal, Finney-Smith was largely ineffective during his lone season with the Rockets. He averaged 3.3 points and 2.5 rebounds in 37 games (one start) in 2025-26.

Finney-Smith, 33, has averaged 8.0 points and 4.4 rebounds in 628 career games (445 starts) for the Dallas Mavericks, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers and Rockets.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 13:41:55 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260704.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-720nw/28131241.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="720">
                    <media:title>NBA: Dallas Mavericks at Houston Rockets</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jan 31, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (2) warms up before the game against the Dallas Mavericks at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Troy Taormina-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>dorian finney-smith toyota</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28131241.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <category>celebrity</category>
               <title>Agent: LeBron James would've joined Knicks if not for title</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260700</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[LeBron James would have taken his talents to Madison Square Garden next season had the building's tenants not just won the NBA title, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul said.

Given the New York Knicks ended their 53-year NBA title drought last month, James and Paul have been left to examine their options with the former once again testing free agency. Paul, who also is James' agent, used a whiteboard to dissect his client's potential destinations during the latest episode of his "Game Over" podcast.

"If the Knicks hadn't won, there would be no board," Paul said. "He'd be going to the Knicks."

That said, the Knicks are not out of contention to land James, who on Tuesday informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he will continue his NBA career elsewhere.

James, 41, has spent the past eight seasons with the Lakers, highlighted by helping the franchise win the 2020 NBA title.

Paul, however, knows James would come under fire if he joined the Knicks and inadvertently became the face of the defending champions.

"When LeBron comes onto your team, I don't care if you just won a championship, I don't care if you've been the best player -- it's different, man," Paul said. "Jalen Brunson would have to literally pick up the phone and say, 'Hey man, it's no issue with me. It's no issue with me.' I'm not saying that would make his decision, but you've gotta respect that."

The Philadelphia 76ers garnered Paul's attention given their recent moves, namely acquiring star guard Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics for 36-year-old Paul George, two first-round picks and two second-round picks.

"How could you not have the attention when you have (Tyrese) Maxey, (V.J.) Edgecombe, Brown and (Joel) Embiid?" asked Paul, who also noted James' had worked with new 76ers president Mike Gansey during his previous stint in Cleveland.

The Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets were solid contenders on the whiteboard, while the Golden State Warriors, Celtics, San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks also serve as potential candidates.

A four-time NBA MVP and the league's all-time leading scorer, James just completed his record-setting 23rd NBA season. He officially became a free agent at 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday.

James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds this past season with the Lakers. The 22-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion is the all-time leader in games (1,622) and points (43,440).

--Field Level Media


--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 12:51:14 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260700.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28138462.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Los Angeles Lakers at New York Knicks</media:title>
                    <media:description>Feb 1, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket against New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>LeBron James Knicks</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28138462.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Javonte Green back with Pistons on 1-year contract</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260697</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Forward Javonte Green is returning to the Detroit Pistons on a one-year, $3.95 million contract, ESPN reported Friday. He was a free agent.

Green, who turns 33 this month, appeared in all 82 games (six starts) for the Pistons in the 2025-26 season, averaging 6.9 points and 2.8 rebounds in 17.6 minutes per game. He shot a career-high 38.1% from 3-point territory.

Green took the long route to arrive in Detroit before this past season. 

After four college seasons at Radford, Green played in Europe (2015-19) before signing as a free agent with the Boston Celtics prior to the 2019-20 season. He has been well-traveled since, appearing in 345 total games with the Celtics, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, Cleveland Cavaliers and Pistons. He has career averages of 5.7 points and 3.0 rebounds over 17.0 minutes per game.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 12:04:02 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260697.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28812091.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Detroit Pistons at Orlando Magic</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 25, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Javonte Green (31) talks to referee Tony Brothers (25) against the Orlando Magic in the third quarter during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>javonte green</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28812091.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: G Kyle Lowry to sign 1-day contract with Raptors, then retire</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260694</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Kyle Lowry, a veteran of 20 NBA seasons, intends to sign a one-day contract with the Toronto Raptos and retire with the franchise for which his name is synonymous, Sportsnet reported Friday.

The Memphis Grizzlies selected Lowry, now 40, with the No. 24 overall pick of the 2006 NBA Draft and at the 2009 trade deadline. He was dealt him to the Houston Rockets as part of a three-team deal that returned Adonal Foyle, Mike Wilks and a 2009 first-round draft pick to Memphis from the Orlando Magic.

Before the 2012-13 season, the Rockets traded him to the Raptors for Gary Forbes and a 2013 first-round pick.

It was in Toronto that Lowry became a star, earning six consecutive All-Star selections (2014-20) and winning the 2018-19 NBA title with the Raptors.

He is the franchise's all-team leader in 3-point field goals (1,518), assists (4,277) and steals (873). He stands second to another Toronto icon, DeMar DeRozan, in minutes played and games played.

A rebuilding Toronto team traded Lowry to the Miami Heat prior to the 2021-22 season, and he later signed with his hometown Philadelphia 76ers in 2014, appearing in just 72 games there over two-plus seasons.

He ends his career with averages of 13.8 points, 6.0 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals over 1,187 career games.

In his 601 games over nine seasons in Toronto, Lowry averaged 17.5 points, 7.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game.

He also won a 2016 Olympic gold medal with Team USA.

Sportsnet reported the Raptors have set a news conference for Tuesday, at which time is it expected Lowry will sign the contract and retire.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:14:45 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260694.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28544735.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Sacramento Kings</media:title>
                    <media:description>Mar 19, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kyle Lowry (7) runs up the court during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>kyle lowry</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28544735.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: Celtics' Neemias Queta agrees to 4-year, $56M extension</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260695</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Boston Celtics are picking up their team option on Neemias Queta for next season and will sign the 7-foot center to a fully guaranteed four-year, $56 million contract extension.

Queta's agent, Bill Duffy of WME Basketball, told ESPN of the deal on Friday morning that locks in his client through the 2030-31 season. The Celtics exercised Queta's $2.67 million team option for the 2026-27 season, with the new contract starting with the 2027-28 campaign.

Queta averaged 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocked shots in 76 games (75 starts) this past season. He shot 65.3% from the field en route to finishing fourth in the NBA's Most Improved Player voting.

He has averages of 7.0 points and 5.6 rebounds in 186 career games (81 starts) with the Sacramento Kings and Celtics. He was selected by the Kings in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft.

Queta will turn 27 on July 13.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:06:42 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260695.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28779414.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Philadelphia 76ers at Boston Celtics</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 21, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88) controls the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers in the first half of a game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Neemias Queta</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28779414.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <category>celebrity</category>
               <title>Report: Active 76ers add LeBron James to wish list</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260642</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Philadelphia 76ers, after dealing for former NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown and agreeing to a contract with free agent guard Anfernee Simons, apparently aren't done with their offseason makeover.

The 76ers are attempting to land the NBA's all-time leading scorer, LeBron James, ESPN reported on Thursday.

James is an unrestricted free agent, and he told the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this week that he would play elsewhere next season.

Per the report, the other leading contenders for James' services are two of his former teams, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, as well as the Golden State Warriors. James will be in no rush to choose his new home, according to ESPN.

On Wednesday, the 76ers agreed to send Paul George, two first-round picks (2028, which could be a swap more favorable to Boston, and an unprotected 2031 pick), and two second-round picks (2028 and 2030) to Boston in exchange for Brown.

The deal can't be officially announced until Monday.

On Thursday, Simons agreed to a two-year, $12.3 million deal with the 76ers.

The 27-year-old guard, who played with Brown in Boston for part of last season, will have a player option in the second season, per ESPN.

Simons joined the Celtics last July in the trade that sent Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers, and he averaged 14.2 points per game while shooting 39.5 percent from 3-point range in 49 games.

Simons was on the move again in February, dealt to the Bulls in exchange for forward Nikola Vucevic, but a left wrist injury limited the guard to just six games with Chicago before ending his season. For the season, Simons averaged 14.3 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 55 games (five starts).

A first-round pick (No. 24 overall) of the Trail Blazers in the 2018 draft, Simons will give the Sixers' bench an offensive lift it was lacking last season. He has averaged at least 17 ppg four times and is a career 38.5 percent 3-point shooter.

Over eight NBA seasons, Simons has averaged 14.9 points, 3.2 assists and 2.5 rebounds in 444 games (218 starts).

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 23:21:49 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260642.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28299318.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Toronto Raptors at Chicago Bulls</media:title>
                    <media:description>Feb 19, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Anfernee Simons (22) shoots against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Anfernee Simons</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28299318.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Reports: Rockets F Tari Eason agrees to 5-year, $81.5M contract</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260673</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason has agreed to a five-year, $81.5 million contract to return to the team, according to multiple reports on Thursday night.

Eason, 25, is a restricted free agent. He earned $5.7 million for the 2025-26 season in the final team option year of his rookie deal, per ESPN, which first reported the contract agreement. The fifth year of the new contract is a player option, per The Athletic.

He averaged 10.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.2 steals and a career-high 25.8 minutes in 60 games (career-high 34 starts) last season. Eason averaged 13.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 2.5 steals and 32.5 minutes in six playoff games (four starts).

For his career, Eason averages 10.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.3 steals and 23.6 minutes in 221 regular-season games (55 starts) since 2022.

Houston selected Eason with the 17th overall pick of the 2022 NBA Draft.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 22:48:08 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260673.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28860673.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Los Angeles Lakers at Houston Rockets</media:title>
                    <media:description>May 1, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) reacts after a made basket against the Los Angeles Lakers during the third quarter of game six of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Erik Williams-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>tari eason</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28860673.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: Billy Donovan joining Spurs as lead assistant coach</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260661</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Former Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan has agreed to become lead assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs, ESPN reported on Thursday.

Donovan, who was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025, stepped down in April after six seasons with the Bulls and his 11th straight as an NBA head coach.

Chicago was 31-51 and missed the playoffs for the fourth straight season, and the Bulls said they wanted Donovan to return, but he did not exercise the clause in his contract for next season.

"After a series of thoughtful and extensive discussions with ownership regarding the future of the organization, I have decided to step away as the head coach of the Chicago Bulls to allow the search process to unfold," Donovan said in a statement on April 21. "I believe it is in the best interest of the Bulls to allow the new leader to build out the staff as they see fit."

Donovan, 61, had been speculated as a candidate to helm the New York Knicks when that job was open before the 2025-26 season as well as making a return to the college ranks at the University of North Carolina this past season. Instead, he said he would fulfill his contractual commitment to the Bulls.

His next post will reportedly be the Spurs. Under Mitch Johnson in his first full season as head coach, San Antonio went 62-20 in the regular season, won the Western Conference crown and lost in five games in the NBA Finals to the New York Knicks.

Donovan has an overall NBA coaching record of 469-413 (.532) in the regular season and 19-27 in the playoffs with the Oklahoma City Thunder (2015-20) and Bulls (2020-26).

He was voted the National Basketball Coaches Association's Coach of the Year in the 2019-20 season, when the Thunder went 44-28 (.611) in the regular season. He finished third in the NBA Coach of the Year voting that season.

Donovan was 502-206 (.709) as a college coach at Marshall (1994-96) and Florida (1996-2015), guiding the latter to four NCAA Final Fours and championships in 2006 and 2007.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:32:59 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260661.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28705012.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Orlando Magic at Chicago Bulls</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 10, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA;  Chicago Bulls Head Coach Billy Donovan laughs with an official during the second half against the Orlando Magic at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Matt Marton-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Billy Donovan</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28705012.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Jaylen Brown: Both 'excited and disappointed' by trade</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260647</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Jaylen Brown said goodbye to Boston on Thursday, admitting he was "still processing how this all went down," a day after being traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. 

Brown, linked all offseason to a possible trade to the Milwaukee Bucks for Giannis Antetokounmpo, had his best pro season in 2025-26 as he led the team with Jayson Tatum out due to an injury until his return on March 6.

Once Antetokounmpo was dealt to the Miami Heat, the Celtics engaged in trade talks with other teams.

Brown, 29, said he was invested in the Celtics and the city of Boston.

"I'm excited and disappointed at the same time. I earned my respect from this city," he wrote in his statement. "I never asked for shortcuts or special treatment. I simply showed up every day, put my head down, and accepted every challenge.

"The relationships I built here, the battles we fought together, the championship we brought to this city, and the connection I shared with the fans, I'll carry on with me."

The Celtics finished last season with a 56-26 record, four games behind the Detroit Pistons and a favorite to play for the NBA title. Instead, they were sent home in the first round of the playoffs, losing to the 76ers in seven games.

Trading Brown for Antetokounmpo potentially could have given the Celtics the piece they needed to win a championships. Fans and analysts have been highly critical of the Wednesday trade, which sends Brown to Philadelphia for 36-year-old Paul George, two first-round picks (2028, which could be a swap that is more favorable for Boston, and an unprotected 2031 pick) and two second-round picks (2028 and 2030) to Boston for Brown.

George has suffered several injuries since the 2018-19 season, when he played in 77 games, and has been limited to 56 games or fewer in six of his seven seasons since then. He played 74 games in 2023-24. In his two seasons with the 76ers, George appeared in 78 total games.

Brown finished sixth in NBA MVP voting in 2026 after averaging a career-high 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game. He is a five-time All-Star.

"Saying goodbye isn't easy when you've invested your heart into something," Brown said. "I'm big on respect and actions speak louder than words. To the people of Boston, thank you. To the community I built here I love you."

Brown said he is ready to embrace his new team.

"I'm excited for what's ahead and grateful for the opportunity to join Philadelphia. Every city has its own identity, its own passion, and its own expectation. I respect that, and I'm looking forward to earning that respect the only way I know how ... through the work."

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 16:22:59 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260647.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28848905.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Boston Celtics at Philadelphia 76ers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 30, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) dribbles the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers during the first quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Bill Streicher-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>jaylen brown</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28848905.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>Betting</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>76ers' NBA title odds soar, Celtics' plummet with Jaylen Brown trade</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260635</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Boston Celtics' trade of star Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers is the latest offseason blockbuster to send sportsbooks scrambling to adjust their NBA futures.

The Celtics were in the mix to land Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks late last month, but when the Greek Freak landed in Miami instead, the Heat's odds of winning the 2026-27 NBA title shortened from +3000 to +1800. With the Celtics deciding to hold onto Brown at the time, their odds held steady at +650 at BetMGM.

That all changed after news broke Wednesday that Boston reversed course and traded Brown to division rival Philadelphia in exchange for aging veteran Paul George and a package of draft picks. The Celtics' title odds immediately plummeted to +1400 while their odds of winning the Eastern Conference went from +260 to +450.

Conversely, the 76ers went from +6600 long shots to win the title next season to +2000 after acquiring Brown. BetMGM reported that 35% of all bets and 40% of all money wagered on next year's champion has backed Philadelphia since the trade.

The 76ers also went from +2000 to +700 to win the Eastern Conference, with 54% of the bets and 68% of the money backing them. The reigning champion New York Knicks are the Eastern Conference favorites at +325, followed by the Celtics at +450 and then the 76ers ahead of the Detroit Pistons at +750.

The Los Angeles Lakers also made a flurry of moves Tuesday, led by the acquisition of center Walker Kessler from Utah. Los Angeles went from +4000 to +3000 to win the NBA title and from +2200 to +1600 to win the Western Conference, where they remain behind Oklahoma City and San Antonio at +150, Minnesota at +1200 and Denver at +1300.

Another significant shift saw the Toronto Raptors' title odds shorten all the way to +2200 by agreeing to a deal earlier this week that will bring Kawhi Leonard back to the franchise. 

2026-27 NBA TITLE ODDS*
Team | Opening Odds | Last Week | Wednesday | Current
Oklahoma City Thunder (+260), (+260), (+260), (+260)
San Antonio Spurs (+270), (+260), (+260), (+260)
New York Knicks (+700), (+750), (+800), (+900)
Boston Celtics (+700), (+650), (+700), (+1400)
Philadelphia 76ers (+6000), (+6000), (+6600), (+2000)
Toronto Raptors (+15000), (+12500), (+2200), (+2200)
Miami Heat (+3500), (+1800), (+2200), (+2500)
Detroit Pistons (+3300), (+2500), (+2500), (+2500)
Denver Nuggets (+2000), (+2500), (+2500), (+2500)
Minnesota Timberwolves (+2500), (+3000), (+2200), (+2500)
Golden State Warriors (+6600), (+6000), (+3000), (+3000)
Cleveland Cavaliers (+3300), (+4000), (+3000), (+3000)
Los Angeles Lakers (+2500), (+2500), (+4000), (+3000)
Indiana Pacers (+3000), (+4000), (+4000), (+4000)
Houston Rockets (+6600), (+6000), (+6000), (+6000)
Atlanta Hawks (+10000), (+8000), (+8000), (+8000)
Portland Trail Blazers (+8000), (+10000), (+8000), (+8000)
Orlando Magic, (+5000), (+8000), (+8000), (+8000)
Charlotte Hornets (+10000), (+8000), (+12500), (+12500)
Dallas Mavericks (+8000), (+15000), (+20000), (+20000)
Utah Jazz (+15000), (+25000), (+15000), (+20000)
Washington Wizards (+15000), (+20000), (+20000), (+20000)
Milwaukee Bucks (+25000), (+30000), (+50000), (+50000)
Chicago Bulls (+75000), (+75000), (+75000), (+75000)
Brooklyn Nets (+100000), (+50000), (+75000), (+75000)
Phoenix Suns (+8000), (+15000), (+12500), (+12500)
Los Angeles Clippers (+6600), (+10000), (+20000), (+50000)
New Orleans Pelicans (+25000), (+50000), (+50000), (+50000)
Memphis Grizzlies (+50000), (+50000), (+75000), (+75000)
Sacramento Kings (+75000), (+75000), (+100000), (+100000)

The next big seismic move in the NBA futures is likely to come with LeBron James' decision on where he will play next season. 

The Warriors have been backed by the most title bets (15.7%) and money (12.5%) following reports that James might be considering linking up with Stephen Curry in Golden State. However, several teams are reportedly in the running for James, with the other two most popular title futures backing the 76ers at 8.8% and 9.4%, respectively, and the Cleveland Cavaliers with 6.8% and 8.9% of the action.

While the book reported the Warriors being backed by the highest percentage of total title bets, the Thunder remain supported by the most total money at 32.0%.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:45:55 EST</pubDate>
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               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28869719.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Philadelphia 76ers at Boston Celtics</media:title>
                    <media:description>76ers center Joel Embiid and Celtics guard Jaylen Brown following a playoff game on May 2, 2026.</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Winslow Townson-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Jaylen Brown, embiid</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28869719.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>NBA to test 'one free throw' rule in summer leagues</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260632</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The NBA will test the "one free throw" rule during the upcoming summer leagues, the league announced Thursday.

Any foul that would typically result in one, two or three free throws under standard NBA rules will instead result in a single free-throw attempt worth one, two or three points.

Standard NBA rules regarding free throws will still apply in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter and throughout overtime.

The NBA G League has been using this format since the 2019-20 season in order "to improve game flow," the league said in Thursday's social media post. 

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:23:57 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260632.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/29195356.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Finals-New York Knicks at San Antonio Spurs</media:title>
                    <media:description>Jun 13, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; New York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges (25) makes a free throw during the fourth quarter during game five of the 2026 NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Scott Wachter-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>nba free throw </media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/29195356.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Heat check: Dad tells Tim Hardaway Jr. retired No. 10 off limits in Miami</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260627</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Tim Hardaway Sr. plans to keep his No. 10 jersey with the Heat retired, safely in the rafters in Miami, even if his son asks to borrow it.

The Heat agreed to a contract with unrestricted free agent Tim Hardaway Jr., who previously wore those digits with Denver, Dallas and Atlanta.

"My legacy is my legacy, and he's doing it his way. Even though he likes to wear 10, he loves to wear 10, but that is not coming down from the rafters," Tim Hardaway Sr. said in a radio interview with WQAM 104.3 in Miami.

The Heat retired Hardaway Sr.'s No. 10 in 2009. The Hall of Fame point guard played five-plus seasons (1996-2001) in Miami and was an All-NBA selection three of those campaigns.

Hardaway Jr. was blocked from wearing the already-retired No. 10 jersey in stints with Detroit (Dennis Rodman) and New York (Clyde Frazier).

The Heat are rebuilding their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was acquired in a deal from the Bucks that will become official next week. Antetokounmpo's preferred jersey No. 34 is available in Miami, where 32 (Shaquille O'Neal) and 33 (Alonzo Mourning) are off the books.

Hardaway Jr., 34, agreed to a one-year deal worth $6.5 million, according to multiple reports.

The Heat also retired numbers worn by Chris Bosh (1), Dwyane Wade (3), Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino (13), NBA great Michael Jordan (23) and Udonis Haslem (40).

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 12:12:39 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260627.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/22994822.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Dallas Mavericks at Miami Heat</media:title>
                    <media:description>Tim Hardaway Jr. (10) did not receive permission from his father, Tim Hardaway Sr., to wear No. 10 with the Miami Heat. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Sam Navarro-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Miami Heat</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/22994822.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Raptors give coach Darko Rajakovic multi-year extension</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260625</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Toronto Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic agreed to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Thursday.

Terms were not disclosed by the Raptors, who gave general manager Bobby Webster a multi-year extension last month and added executive vice president to his title.

"Darko's strong development philosophy and commitment to a team-first culture shine through on a daily basis," Webster said in a statement. "We've seen these qualities play out on the court -- our team plays hard, plays together, and fights until the end. Darko knows there's more to be done, and we're looking forward to seeing the continued growth of this team."

Toronto finished 46-36 in 2025-26 and ended a three-year playoff drought, losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers in seven games in the first round.

Rajakovic, 47, is 101-145 during his three seasons as coach of the Raptors.

"I'm proud of the progress we've made, but our team knows there is still a lot of work to do, and I am looking forward to continuing to build and win with the Raptors," Rajakovic said. "We will keep growing, keep working together and stay committed to getting better every day as we reach for our goal of an NBA Championship."

Rajakovic previously served as an assistant coach with the Oklahoma City Thunder (2014-19), Phoenix Suns (2019-20) and Memphis Grizzlies (2020-23).

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:46:18 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260625.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28759646.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Toronto Raptors at Cleveland Cavaliers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic reacts against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Ken Blaze-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Darko Rajakovic</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28759646.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Reports: Celtics trade Jaylen Brown to 76ers for Paul George, 4 picks</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260580</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Boston Celtics have agreed to a blockbuster trade which sends All-NBA forward Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for former All-NBA veteran forward Paul George and four draft picks, according to multiple media reports on Wednesday.

The draft compensation, according to ESPN, will send two first-round picks (2028, which could be a swap that is more favorable for Boston, and unprotected 2031 pick) and two second-round picks (2028 and 2030) to Boston for Brown, who finished sixth in NBA MVP voting this past season when he averaged a career-high 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game.

Brown's future with the Celtics has been uncertain since he was reportedly used as the main piece in Boston's failed trade offer to acquire Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. He has three years left on the five-year, $285 million supermax contract extension he signed in July 2023.

Brown, 29, has averaged 20.0 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game in 674 games (547 starts) over 10 seasons with the Celtics since they selected him eighth overall in the 2016 NBA Draft. The five-time All-Star and two-time second-team All-NBA standout was named NBA Finals MVP when Boston beat the Dallas Mavericks to win the 2024 championship.

In Philadelphia, he'll be paired with former MVP Joel Embiid and rising star guards Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe on a team which suddenly could be an Eastern Conference contender.

George, 36, has spent the last two seasons in Philadelphia after previous stops with the Indiana Pacers (2010-17), Oklahoma City Thunder (2017-19) and Los Angeles Clippers (2019-24).

He battled knee, adductor and finger injuries during his time with the Sixers, limited to 78 games over the last two seasons. The nine-time All-Star has averaged 20.5 points, 6.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists over 945 games (897 starts) across 16 NBA seasons.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 19:01:43 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260580.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28805140.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Boston Celtics at Philadelphia 76ers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 24, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) drives to the basket against Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) during the second half at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Eric Hartline-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>jaylen brown, paul george</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28805140.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Celtics add C Mitchell Robinson, PG Mike Conley as free agents</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260577</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Boston Celtics reportedly agreed on a three-year, $47.4 million deal with center Mitchell Robinson, who was part of the champion New York Knicks this past season.

A defensive force, Robinson averaged 7.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocked shots in 397 games (215 starts) with the Nicks since entering the league in 2018. He has topped 100 blocks four times while totaling 690.

Last season, Robinson averaged 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocked shots in 60 games (16 starts). He rejected 70 shots while averaging 19.6 minutes per game.

In the postseason, Robinson averaged 4.8 points and 5.5 rebounds in 18 contests while playing 13.9 minutes per game. The 28-year-old played through a broken right pinkie as the Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs in five games in the NBA Finals.

The Celtics also reportedly reached a one-year deal with point guard Mike Conley, who will be entering his 20th NBA season.

Conley, 38, averaged career lows of 4.5 points and 2.9 assists in 54 games (15 starts) for the Minnesota Timberwolves last season. 

Conley once was a top-tier player for the Memphis Grizzlies. He played 12 seasons with the Grizzlies before spending 3 1/2 seasons with the Utah Jazz and 3 1/2 seasons with the Timberwolves. He was selected to the All-Star Game in 2021 with the Jazz.

A four-time winner of the NBA's Sportsmanship Award and two-time Teammate of the Year, Conley will become only the 14th player in NBA history to reach 20 seasons.

Conley has career averages of 13.6 points, 5.5 assists and 2.9 rebounds in 1,226 games (1,143 starts). His 6,782 assists rank fifth among active players and he stands 14 short of having 2,000 career 3-pointers.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:28:52 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260577.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/29004520.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Cleveland Cavaliers at New York Knicks</media:title>
                    <media:description>May 19, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson (23) reacts to missing a free throw against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the third quarter of game one of the eastern conference finals during the 2026 NBA playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Brad Penner-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Mitchell Robinson cavaliers</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/29004520.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Spurs add veteran Tobias Harris on 2-year deal</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260575</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The San Antonio Spurs signed free-agent veteran forward Tobias Harris to a two-year, $31 million contract on Wednesday, according to an ESPN report.

Harris, 33, is entering his 16th NBA season. He spent the last two seasons in a second stint with the Detroit Pistons, contributing to their first two playoff appearances since 2019, including the Eastern Conference's top seed this past season.

He averaged 13.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 63 regular-season games (all starts) last season before ramping up his play in the postseason with 18.1 points and 7.2 boards per game.

Harris has career averages of 15.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.4 assists over 1,033 games (913 starts) with the Milwaukee Bucks (2011-13), Orlando Magic (2013-16), Pistons (2016-18, 24-26), Los Angeles Clippers (2018-19) and Philadelphia 76ers (2019-24).

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:09:44 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260575.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28968719.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Detroit Pistons at Cleveland Cavaliers</media:title>
                    <media:description>May 15, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris (12) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) during the second half in game six of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Ken Blaze-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>tobias harris</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28968719.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: All-Star G Norman Powell agrees to 2-year deal with Bulls</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260572</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Chicago Bulls and free-agent guard Norman Powell have agreed to a two-year, $45 million deal, ESPN reported Wednesday.

Powell averaged 21.7 points and 3.5 rebounds during an All-Star campaign last season for the Miami Heat.

That was Powell's lone season in Miami after being obtained from the Los Angeles Clippers prior to the campaign. Powell averaged 21.8 points during his final season with the Clippers. He spent parts of four seasons with the team.

Powell, 33, also played for the Toronto Raptors (2015-21) and Portland Trail Blazers (2021-22) and has career averages of 14.0 points and 2.7 rebounds in 675 games (312 starts).

Powell has made 1,215 career 3-pointers at a 39.6% clip.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:44:10 EST</pubDate>
               <guid isPermaLink="false">NBAStory-260572.xml</guid>
               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28585282.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Miami Heat at Cleveland Cavaliers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Mar 25, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Miami Heat guard Norman Powell (24) looks to pass beside Cleveland Cavaliers guard Keon Ellis (14) in the third quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">David Richard-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Norman Powell</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28585282.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Magic bring back Nikola Vucevic for second tour with franchise</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260571</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Veteran big man Nikola Vucevic signed with the Orlando Magic on Wednesday for his second stint with the franchise.

The Magic did not disclose contract terms, but Vucevic agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million deal, according to an ESPN report. He spent 8 1/2 seasons with Orlando in his first stint with the team and was a two-time All-Star.

Vucevic averaged a double-double in six of his eight full seasons with the Magic. He was comfortably headed toward another in season No. 9 when Orlando dealt him to the Chicago Bulls before the 2021 trade deadline.

The 35-year-old Vucevic spent five seasons with the Bulls before being traded to the Boston Celtics prior to last season's trade deadline. He averaged 15.1 points and 8.4 rebounds in 64 overall games but his numbers were just 9.7 and 6.6, respectively, in 16 games (one start) with Boston.

Vucevic was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round (No. 16 overall) of the 2011 NBA Draft and was traded to Orlando after his rookie campaign.

Vucevic has career averages of 17.1 points and 10.3 rebounds and has knocked down 998 3-pointers in 1,036 games (957 starts).

Orlando also announced the signings of guard Jevon Carter and forward Jonathan Isaac.

Carter agreed to a one-year, $3.5 million deal, per multiple reports. Isaac was recently released before his $14.5 million salary for 2026-27 became guaranteed.

Carter, 30, averaged 7.2 points, 2.3 assists and 20.4 minutes in 30 games (one start) last season. Isaac, 28, averaged 2.6 points, 2.5 rebounds and 10.0 minutes, all career lows, in 52 games, all as a reserve.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:24:20 EST</pubDate>
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               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28665600.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Toronto Raptors at Boston Celtics</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 5, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA;  Boston Celtics center Nikola Vucevic (4) shoots a jump shot against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>Nikola Vucevic</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28665600.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
          </item>
          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <title>Report: Pacers sign F Kelly Oubre Jr. to 2-year deal</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260568</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Indiana Pacers are signing free-agent forward Kelly Oubre Jr. to a two-year, $17 million contract, according to a report from ESPN on Wednesday.

Oubre, 30, most recently played for the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 14.1-plus points and five-plus rebounds in each of his three seasons with the team, starting 150 of the 178 regular-season games he played.

He's been a consistent scorer, averaging double-digit points in each of his last nine NBA seasons, posting career averages of 13.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.1 steals over 705 games (352 starts) with the Washington Wizards (2015-18), Phoenix Suns (2018-20), Golden State Warriors (2020-21), Charlotte Hornets (2021-23) and 76ers.

He's set to join a Pacers team looking to bounce back after following up its NBA Finals appearance in 2025 with an injury-plagued 19-63 campaign this past season.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:47:06 EST</pubDate>
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               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28866587.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Philadelphia 76ers at Boston Celtics</media:title>
                    <media:description>May 2, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) goes to the basket against the Boston Celtics during the first quarter of game seven of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Winslow Townson-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>oubre</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28866587.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
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          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Lakers land Walker Kessler in sign-and-trade deal with Jazz</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260549</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Walker Kessler is ticketed for the Lakers in a sign-and-trade agreement with the Utah Jazz that includes a new four-year, $130 million deal in Los Angeles, according to multiple reports.

Kessler is a restricted free agent but was in Los Angeles to meet with team president Rob Pelinka as the league free agent moratorium opened on Wednesday.

ESPN reported the trade sends draft picks back to Utah, where CEO Danny Ainge has long coveted the assets. The Jazz are expected to receive two unprotected first-round picks (2031, 2033) and first-round pick swaps in 2028 and 2030, according to the report.

Limited to five games last season due to a shoulder injury, Kessler played in 58 games in 2024-25 and averaged 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocks.

Kessler, 24, is an athletic 7-footer and runs the floor well with agility as a defender and pick-and-roll option. He's a career 68.1% shooter from the field and averaged 2.4 blocks per game with Utah after being acquired from the Memphis Grizzlies. Memphis selected Kessler with the No. 22 pick in the 2022 draft out of Auburn.

The Lakers also reportedly reached agreements with big man Sandro Mamukelashvili and guards Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton.

Mamukelashvili, 27, agreed to a four-year, $52 million deal with a player option for the fourth season, per ESPN. He averaged 11.2 points and 4.9 rebounds in 80 games (13 starts) with the Toronto Raptors in 2025-26.

Grimes, 26, reached a four-year, $60 million deal with the Lakers that includes a player option, ESPN reported. He posted 13.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 75 games (19 starts0 for the Philadelphia 76ers in 2025-26.

Sexton, 27, agreed to a two-year, $19 million contract, according to multiple reports. He split last season with the Charlotte Hornets and Chicago Bulls and averaged 15.4 points and 3.3 assists in 68 games (22 starts).

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:47:09 EST</pubDate>
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               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/27393251.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Los Angeles Clippers at Utah Jazz</media:title>
                    <media:description>Oct 22, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) dunks against the Los Angeles Clippers during the first quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Rob Gray-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>walker kessler delta</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/27393251.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
               </media:content>
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          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>NBA Cup title game headed to Indy’s Hinkle Fieldhouse in December</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260494</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[After Las Vegas served as the ultimate destination of the first three editions of the NBA Cup, the league is taking the finale of its in-season tournament to historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

The NBA announced Tuesday that the NBA Cup championship game for 2026 will be played at Hinkle on Friday, Dec. 11.

The longtime home of Butler University, Hinkle has also hosted the likes of the National Invitation Tournament, the WNBA's Indiana Fever and the NBA's Indianapolis Olympians (1949-53). It was the home of the Indiana High School Boys Basketball Tournament for decades and the site of the game that inspired the movie "Hoosiers."

A news release from the league said the NBA intended to bring the NBA Cup championship to "distinctive stages that honor the sport's history."

"Hinkle Fieldhouse offers a special setting to capture the excitement and drama of the Emirates NBA Cup Championship," said Kelly Flatow, the NBA's head of global events, said in a statement. "Playing the Championship in an iconic basketball environment like this will further establish it as a signature moment on the NBA calendar."

The in-season tournament pits representatives from the Eastern and Western conferences in the championship game with a cash prize for players on the line. In 2025, the New York Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs for the title, which turned out to be a preview of the NBA Finals that saw the same matchup and same result.

The higher-seeded team in each conference will host Emirates NBA Cup semifinals games beginning in the 2026-27 season.

From 2023 through 2025, the final four teams standing went to Las Vegas to contest the semifinals and title game.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:44:11 EST</pubDate>
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               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/29021168.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>Syndication: The Indianapolis Star</media:title>
                    <media:description>Graduation candidates process into commencement ceremonies for the Shortridge High School Class of 2026, Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Hinkle Fieldhouse.</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Doug McSchooler/for IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>hinkle fieldhouse</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/29021168.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: PG Mike Conley joining Celtics for 20th season</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260546</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Free agent point guard Mike Conley is signing with the Boston Celtics to play his 20th NBA season in 2026-27, ESPN reported Wednesday.

Conley, who turns 39 in October, has agreed to join his fourth team on a one-year deal, per the report. Terms were not disclosed.

A four-time winner of the NBA's Sportsmanship Award and two-time Teammate of the Year, Conley will become only the 14th player in NBA history to reach 20 seasons.

The former All-Star averaged career lows in points (4.5) and minutes (18.4) in 54 games (15 starts) last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves.  

Conley has averaged 13.6 points, 5.5 assists, 2.9 rebounds and 1.3 steals in 1,226 career games (1,143 starts) with the Memphis Grizzlies (2007-19), Utah Jazz (2019-23) and Timberwolves. Memphis drafted him with the No. 4 overall pick in 2007.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:09:20 EST</pubDate>
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               <media:content url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/1100-733nw/28828350.jpg" type="image/jpg" medium="image" width="1100" height="733">
                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Minnesota Timberwolves at Denver Nuggets</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 27, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley (10) dribbles the ball up court in the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets during game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>mike conley</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28828350.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: F John Collins signing 3-year, $51M deal with Pistons</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260541</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[Free agent forward John Collins agreed to a three-year, $51 million deal with the Detroit Pistons, ESPN reported Wednesday.

Collins, 28, is expected to start at power forward for Detroit after averaging 13.6 points and 5.3 rebounds in 69 games (56 starts) for the Los Angeles Clippers the 2025-26 season. He shot a career-high 40.6% from 3-point range.

A first-round pick (19th overall) by Atlanta in 2017, Collins has posted 15.7 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.0 blocks in 541 career games (466 starts) with the Hawks (2017-23), Utah Jazz (2023-25) and Clippers.

Collins spent the first half of his career as a pick-and-roll partner with Trae Young in Atlanta, a similar role Detroit envisions alongside All-Star point guard Cade Cunningham.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:01:10 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Los Angeles Clippers at Sacramento Kings</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 5, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; LA Clippers forward John Collins (right) is congratulated by teammates after being removed from the game against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>john collins clippers</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28667630.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
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          <item>
               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: G Norman Powell agrees to 2-year, $45M deal with Bulls</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260540</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Chicago Bulls are in agreement with All-Star guard Norman Powell on a two-year, $45 million contract, ESPN reported Wednesday.

The 33-year-old guard averaged 21.7 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 58 games (52 starts) in his lone season with the Miami Heat in 2025-26.

It was Powell's second straight season averaging more than 20 points per game and the third straight season in which he knocked down at least 150 3-pointers. He is a 39.6% shooter from behind the arc over his 11-year career.

Powell has career averages of 14.0 points and 2.7 rebounds in 675 games (311 starts) with the Toronto Raptors (2015-21), Portland Trail Blazers (2021-22), Los Angeles Clippers (2022-25) and Heat. He won an NBA title with Toronto in 2019.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:54:19 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Miami Heat at Cleveland Cavaliers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Mar 25, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Miami Heat guard Norman Powell (24) looks to shoot in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">David Richard-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>norman powell</media:keywords>
                    <media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.imagn.com/image/thumb/180-180/28584875.jpg" width="180" height="180" />
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               <dc:creator>Field Level Media</dc:creator>
               <category>Story</category>
               <category>News</category>
               <category>Top Story</category>
               <title>Report: Rockets signing G Marcus Smart to 2-year, $13M deal</title>
               <link>https://fieldlevelmedia.com/latest-stories?storyId=260537</link>
               <description xml:space="preserve"><![CDATA[The Houston Rockets are signing free agent Marcus Smart to a two-year, $13 million contract, ESPN reported Wednesday.

The 32-year-old guard averaged 9.3 points, 3.0 assists and 2.8 rebounds in 62 games (54 starts) with the Los Angeles Lakers this past season. He declined his $5.4 million player option with the Lakers on Monday.

Smart reunites with Rockets head coach Ime Udoka, his coach with the Boston Celtics when he won NBA Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2021-22. 

Smart averaged 12.9 points, 5.1 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 2.4 steals in 10 postseason starts last season with L.A.

A first-round pick (sixth overall) by Boston in 2014, Smart has averaged 10.5 points, 4.4 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.6 steals in 697 career games (441 starts) with the Celtics (2014-23), Memphis Grizzlies (2023-25) and Lakers.

--Field Level Media]]></description>
               <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:15:52 EST</pubDate>
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                    <media:title>NBA: Playoffs-Houston Rockets at Los Angeles Lakers</media:title>
                    <media:description>Apr 21, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) smiles on the court during the second half of game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images</media:description>
                    <media:credit role="photographer">Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images</media:credit>
                    <media:keywords>marcus smart lakers april</media:keywords>
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