Category: Basketball

  • After Trae Young, who’s the next NBA star to get traded?

    After Trae Young, who’s the next NBA star to get traded?

    The NBA’s landscape today has put a premium on what a player can bring to championship hopes, as seen with the recent trade of Trae Young to the Washington Wizards. The Atlanta Hawks have seen the emergence of Jalen Johnson and the steady presence of Kristaps Porzingis and Onyeka Okongwu. This led to the Hawks parting ways with the star who led them to the Eastern conference finals five years ago.

     

    There seems to be little patience among teams, more specifically the rebuilding teams, to hold on to their aging or young-but-stagnant stars. This is why the NBA trade market this season has seen a litany of rumors swirling from former Finals MVPs and once-projected to be franchise cornerstones. So begs the question: Who’s next after Trae Young?

     

    Anthony Davis

     

    Davis has been one of the central players in NBA trade rumors even after he was traded by the Los Angeles Lakers to the Dallas Mavericks for Luka Doncic. It seemed that the Mavericks were going on a peculiar and frankly mindless approach to the win-now mentality by getting Davis, who proved to be more injury-prone than Doncic. 

     

    With the Doncic trade mastermind, Nico Harrison, gone and the Mavericks shifting to their franchise star Cooper Flagg, all signs point to Davis departing for more title-capable teams that can carry his salary and the injury problems. 

    Jonathan Kuminga

     

    When the Golden State Warriors re-signed Jonathan Kuminga this offseason, it wasn’t because they suddenly wanted him to be in their plans in the future (although head coach Steve Kerr did try early in the season), it was to finally shut the door on a long stalemate and hopefully get something in return for the young prospect.

     

    It’s now January and the Warriors are struggling to find momentum. Kuminga’s future in Oakland is more than likely over. It will only be a matter of which package the Warriors will choose. The reason why the Warriors have waited this long to trade Kuminga is simply that they want to get the best deal possible. A failed trade to get Lauri Markannen last season proves that the market for the young forward can net the Warriors important pieces to become legitimate title contenders this season.

     

    Ivica Zubac

     

    The Los Angeles Clippers are having a rough go of things. A failed farewell tour to franchise legend Chris Paul and a season-ending injury to Bradley Beal have hampered the potential of a talented but aging Clippers team. Stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden have been brought up in trade rumors in the beginning, but now that they’ve put on stellar performances that ignited a better run of form, it seems that longtime big man Ivica Zubac becomes the most logical players to be traded to hopefully get the team to the postseason.

     

    Zubac has only played in four games of the Clippers’ last 10games, where they have been on fire with a 7-3 record. The emergence of rookie Yanic Niederhauser, who is more versatile and athletic, and Brook Lopez, who isn’t as steady as Zubac in the paint but is a far more lethal shooter, have made Zubac a primary trade piece that can hopefully garner more pieces that will help reverse their 13-23 record this season.

     

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  • SMB keeps Bennie Boatwright in sight as Commissioner’s Cup plans hinge on KBL fate

    SMB keeps Bennie Boatwright in sight as Commissioner’s Cup plans hinge on KBL fate

    Even with Bennie Boatwright already plying his trade in South Korea, San Miguel Beer has not crossed the door on a possible reunion for the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    The Beermen remain firmly interested in the Gilas Pilipinas naturalized player candidate, viewing him as their top import option for the midseason tournament that tips off on March 11—provided circumstances allow. Team manager Gee Abanilla confirmed that Boatwright’s name continues to sit at the top of San Miguel’s wish list, though his availability remains the biggest question mark.

     

    “Yes, nasa listahan namin siya,” Abanilla said. “Pero depende sa sitwasyon niya. Kung mag-a-advance yung team niya. So it really depends.”

     

    Boatwright recently signed with Daegu KOGAS Pegasus in the Korean Basketball League, a move that caught San Miguel slightly off guard. The Pegasus are currently tied at the bottom of the standings with a 9-20 record alongside the Seoul Samsung Thunders, and while their playoff hopes are slim, the KBL season runs until April—overlapping with the PBA’s import conference.

     

    Abanilla revealed that communication between the two sides never stopped, especially after Boatwright parted ways with the Taipei Fubon Braves in the P. League+.

     

    “The last time I communicated with him, tinanong niya lang sa akin kung ano yung schedule ng Commissioner’s Cup,” Abanilla said.

     

    “Right after lumabas (news about the Fubon Braves), nag-text na ako agad sa kanya, and then he asked for it (Commissioner’s Cup schedule).”

     

    That line of communication, however, was quickly overtaken by events. Just days later, Boatwright committed to a KBL stint.

     

    “Nagulat na lang kami na pumirma na siya sa Korea,” Abanilla said while speaking from the sidelines of the Philippine Cup semifinals between San Miguel and Barangay Ginebra.

     

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    From San Miguel’s perspective, the move appears less about opportunity and more about rhythm. Abanilla believes Boatwright may have chosen Korea to stay game-ready following recovery from an Achilles injury.

     

    “I was thinking na baka ayaw niya lang mabakante, gusto niya tuloy-tuloy lang,” he said. “Well, he’s already healed, pero yung time niya, siguro gusto niyang makuha pa, and he could only get that from playing.”

     

    Still, Abanilla admitted that an earlier return to San Miguel would have been ideal. The Commissioner’s Cup window would have allowed Boatwright to reacclimate to the Beermen’s system—one he already mastered en route to the 2023–24 Commissioner’s Cup title.

     

    “This is the best chance to bring him early, get acclimatized, and be re-acquainted with the San Miguel system again. Kaso naging ganun ang desisyon niya,” Abanilla said.

     

    Now, the situation hinges on how far Daegu KOGAS goes. A late-season surge or playoff qualification could complicate any potential release, forcing San Miguel to balance patience with practicality.

     

    “Ang dilemma ngayon, kung mag-advance (yung team),” Abanilla said. “Siyempre kailangan rin ng mga coaches to decide on something. Hindi naman pwedeng, ‘O baka libre na siya ngayon, kunin na natin.’”

     

    “Kung libre siya, edi OK.”

     

    Until then, San Miguel waits—keeping Boatwright firmly on the radar as they prepare for the Commissioner’s Cup, aware that timing may ultimately decide whether a familiar import returns or the Beermen are forced to look elsewhere. 

     

     

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  • “It’s up to us to bend our game around him”: LeBron James fitting his game around Luka Doncic

    “It’s up to us to bend our game around him”: LeBron James fitting his game around Luka Doncic

    The Los Angeles Lakers have made a strong statement in the early stages of the 2025-26 National Basketball Association (NBA) season, compiling a 23-12 record to sit fourth in the highly competitive Western Conference standings.

     

    Much of the Lakers’ momentum has been fueled by the return of franchise icon LeBron James, who continues to defy Father Time at 41. On Wednesday, January 7 (Philippine Standard Time), LeBron poured in 30 points against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center, demonstrating that he remains a key contributor for the team despite his age and previous injury concerns.

     

    While LeBron’s scoring and leadership are invaluable, the four-time NBA champion has been clear about the Lakers’ hierarchy, emphasizing the central role of Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic.

     

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    “Luka Doncic don’t need to bend his game for me. Luka is our 26-year-old franchise for this ballclub. He don’t need to bend his game. It is up to us to bend our game around him and figure it out,” LeBron said in a media session.

    The veteran forward added: “We just try to be dynamic and work off of him. We know he is an unbelievable pick-and-roll player, unbelievable shotmaker. He commands the defense. He has four eyes, sometimes six eyes on him. So, it’s up to us to put ourselves in the right position. It’s not a problem for me; it’s not an issue for me.”

     

    LeBron has also shouldered additional responsibility amid injury setbacks, with starters Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura sidelined due to left and right calf injuries, respectively. Despite these absences, the Lakers managed to win three consecutive games before falling to the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday, January 8 (Philippine Standard Time).

     

    “We are just trying to weather the storm with the guys that we have. But, it is going to start with me and Luka, for sure. Every time we hit the floor. He has the ball in his hands. I’m going to have the ball in my hands. We have to make sure we are putting our guys in position offensively, and then defensively,” LeBron explained.

     

    The Lakers have also benefited from LeBron’s resurgence after returning from a sciatica-related condition, which had limited his production early in the season. In his first six games, he averaged just 14 points per contest on 41.3 percent shooting. Since then, however, he has stepped up, not just as a scorer but as a floor general and mentor to younger teammates.

     

    Despite LeBron’s efforts, it is clear that Doncic has become the face of the franchise. The Lakers’ offensive schemes and rotations are increasingly built around the 26-year-old guard, who draws constant defensive attention and creates opportunities for his teammates. LeBron’s willingness to defer to Doncic underscores his leadership and team-first mentality, a trait that has defined his career.

     

    Looking ahead, the Lakers’ success this season will likely depend on maintaining this balance between experience and youth, health and depth. With LeBron still playing at a high level and Luka anchoring the offense, the Lakers are well-positioned to remain a formidable contender in the Western Conference. How the team navigates injuries and maximizes its dynamic duo will be crucial if they aim to make a deep playoff run and contend for another championship.

     

     

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  • South Korean press not open to Kevin Quiambao winning KBL Rookie of the Year award

    South Korean press not open to Kevin Quiambao winning KBL Rookie of the Year award

    Gilas Pilipinas stalwart Kevin Quiambao has emerged at the center of a growing debate in the 2025–26 Korean Basketball League (KBL) surrounding eligibility for the league’s Rookie of the Year award. 

     

    The Filipino, currently playing for the Goyang Sono Skygunners, has drawn both acclaim for his play and criticism from some domestic media figures in South Korea.

     

    Quiambao, a two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player before turning professional, has posted impactful numbers this season and is frequently mentioned among the top candidates for the prestigious award. 

     

    His all-around play, scoring, rebounding, and facilitating,  has captured the attention of fans and analysts across the league. However, a faction of South Korean basketball journalists has raised objections, arguing that the Rookie of the Year honor should be restricted exclusively to local Korean players.

     

    The conversation reportedly gained traction after a prominent veteran reporter made comments on a Korean basketball-focused YouTube podcast, asserting that foreign and Asian import players should be ineligible for the recognition. 

     

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    The reporter stressed that the award traditionally celebrated emerging homegrown talent, and thus should not go to a player like Quiambao, who entered the league under the Asian Quota system.

     

    The KBL has historically welcomed foreign athletes through the Asian Quota program, intended to elevate competitive standards and diversify the league’s player pool.

     

    Filipino imports such as Rhenz Abando, SJ Belangel, Migz Gozon, Ethan Alvano, and Justin Gutang have all found success in recent seasons, contributing significantly to their respective teams. Meanwhile, last season’s Rookie of the Year, JD Cagulangan, posted notable averages for the Suwon KT Sonicboom.

     

    While the KBL has not yet publicly clarified whether any nationality-based eligibility restrictions will apply, the award announcement is scheduled for the annual KBL Awards Ceremony following the conclusion of the regular season in April. 

     

    At that time, league officials will officially name the Rookie of the Year, potentially setting a precedent for how the honor is defined in future import-heavy seasons.

     

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  •  “We are down, but we are definitely not out”: Chris Newsome urges Bolts to stay confident

     “We are down, but we are definitely not out”: Chris Newsome urges Bolts to stay confident

    The Meralco Bolts’ struggles in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals continued on Wednesday, January 7, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, as they fell to the TNT Tropang Giga, 109-92, in Game 2.

     

    Jordan Heading and Calvin Oftana spearheaded TNT’s dominant performance, combining for 50 points and putting added pressure on Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo to make significant adjustments heading into the rest of the best-of-seven series.

     

    Despite back-to-back defeats, Bolts captain Chris Newsome remains steadfast, urging his teammates to maintain a resilient “down but not out” mindset.

     

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    “I mean, it’s always tough, especially after a loss like that, where we didn’t have a chance in that game. You know they kept the lead. They kept us spread there. A very difficult position to be in. The morale of the team is down right now, but we are definitely not out,” Newsome said in a media interaction.

     

    “The one thing I wanted the guys to continue to embrace is the belief that we can continue to win and we continue to play good basketball. And these last two games don’t define who we are as a program and who we are as individuals. And we really have to play this series all the way out,” he added.

    The 35-year-old guard emphasized that Meralco’s veterans continue to remind the younger players that the series is far from over.

     

    “I think that’s the biggest takeaway for us is that they have to win four. We can’t let these two losses affect our morale and our team spirit. So that’s the main thing, taking that experience from our veterans and the ones that have been in multiple series before. A lot of us have been to game sevens. In a series, anything can happen,” Newsome continued.

     

    Meralco’s Game 2 effort was further hampered by Newsome’s early exit after dislocating his left pinky finger, limiting his availability and removing the Bolts’ most influential on-court presence.

     

    “I dislocated my left pinky. It was a clean dislocation. Our team physician popped it back in place, taped it up, and I just went out there and continued to play. Me having to take an early exit didn’t really help. You know I wanted to be out there to help the team start. But I think that’s where you have to show the capabilities of the team, regardless of who’s in the game, they have to be able to perform, they have to be able to execute the game plan.

     

    “It’s just unfortunate what happened to me earlier in the game. But I was able to get it back together and try my best to help the team win despite the injury I sustained,” Newsome concluded.

     

    With the Bolts now facing a crucial juncture in the semifinals, Newsome hopes the team can regroup and respond when the series resumes with Game 3 on Friday, January 9, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

     

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  • Stephen Curry reveals the legends he wants on stage for his Hall of Fame induction

    Stephen Curry reveals the legends he wants on stage for his Hall of Fame induction

    Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in National Basketball Association (NBA) history, continues to cement his legacy both on and off the court. Beyond his four championships and two MVP awards, Curry is credited with revolutionizing the game of basketball, ushering in a new era defined by pace, spacing, and long-range shooting. His impact has shaped everything from youth basketball to NBA defensive schemes, making him one of the most influential players in modern sports.

     

    With his resume all but guaranteeing a future place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Curry recently offered a glimpse into that milestone moment. In an interview with NBA legend Vince Carter, the 37-year-old was asked who he would want on stage as his official presenters during his Hall of Fame induction. Curry did not hesitate in naming the individuals he wants standing beside him when the honor becomes official.

     

    “I mean, you. Steve Nash, Reggie Miller and Ray Allen are the names that I think off the top of my head. Those are my guys, though. It’s crazy to even say out loud,” Curry said.

     

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    The future Hall of Famer’s choices reflect deep personal and professional connections. Curry has described Carter as a family mentor figure, having played alongside Curry’s father, Dell, with the Toronto Raptors during the early 2000s. Carter’s “Vinsanity” era helped reshape the modern NBA’s style and athleticism—an influence Curry openly appreciates.

    Curry’s admiration for Ray Allen and Reggie Miller is well-documented. He broke Allen’s all-time three-point record during the 2021–22 season, surpassing the very players he studied growing up. Both sharpshooters embraced Curry’s ascent and celebrated him publicly, reinforcing their bond as three of the sport’s greatest perimeter threats.

     

    Meanwhile, Curry credits Steve Nash for influencing critical aspects of his game. Nash served as a player development consultant for the Warriors early in Curry’s career, offering guidance on pace, decision-making, and shooting mechanics. Curry has repeatedly acknowledged Nash’s role in shaping his evolution into a transformative offensive force.

     

    Despite his monumental accomplishments, Curry remains grounded about where he currently stands in his career timeline. Now entering his 17th NBA season, he acknowledges that he is much closer to the end than the beginning. Yet, he insists that his competitive drive remains as strong as ever.

     

    “I guess the only thing is being able to embrace the fact that there are less days ahead on the court than there are behind, so I don’t run away from the fact of your mortality in the sense of your basketball mortality. I know that I don’t have that many years left, but the idea of just honing in on the now, and there’s a sense of urgency at the moment because I still have a lot to prove on the court. I don’t want to get too ahead of myself. We have got to hold on for as long as we can,” he added.

     

    Curry’s comments highlight a superstar who remains driven by the pursuit of excellence rather than nostalgia. Even as he acknowledges the reality of the late stages of his career, his focus stays firmly on winning, improving, and extending the Warriors’ championship window. Whether or not more titles follow, his legacy as a game-changing icon is already secure—and his future Hall of Fame induction, with the legends he admires standing beside him, promises to be one of the most memorable moments in basketball history.

     

     

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  • Sports Illustrated crowns Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 2025 Sportsperson of the Year

    Sports Illustrated crowns Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 2025 Sportsperson of the Year

    Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named the 2025 Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year, adding another major honor to a season that has already cemented his place among the NBA’s elite. 

     

    The award recognizes Gilgeous-Alexander not just for his statistical achievements but also for his broader impact on the sport during a historic season for both the 27-year-old guard and the Thunder organization. 

     

    His selection follows an outstanding performance that saw him lead Oklahoma City to one of its most successful campaigns in franchise history. He has been among the league’s top scorers while also shouldering a heavy offensive load for a Thunder team that has competed at the highest level throughout the campaign.

     

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    The Canadian-born guard’s awards résumé has been impressive. In the 2024–25 season, he was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player, leading the league with 32.7 points per game while also contributing solid assist and rebound numbers. 

     

    His MVP season helped power the Thunder to the best regular-season record in the league and ultimately to the organization’s first NBA championship.

     

    In addition to his MVP honor, Gilgeous-Alexander’s excellence carried into the postseason, where he was named Finals MVP after a commanding performance that capped a long playoff run. 

     

    The Sportsperson of the Year award honors athletes who have made significant contributions to their sport while also resonating with broader audiences through character and leadership.

     

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  • Tim Cone blasts Barangay Ginebra’s bench after Game 2 loss to San Miguel

    Tim Cone blasts Barangay Ginebra’s bench after Game 2 loss to San Miguel

    San Miguel Beermen mounted a furious second-half rally to take Game 2 of their best-of-seven Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup semifinal series, defeating long-time rivals Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, 93–84, on Wednesday, January 7, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The victory allowed the Beermen to tie the series at 1–1 and regain momentum after dropping the opener.

     

    Jeron Teng, a former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout, emerged as the unexpected spark for San Miguel. Coming off the bench, Teng delivered 13 points—12 of which came in the pivotal fourth quarter—igniting a comeback that stunned the Ginebra crowd. Teng’s aggressiveness down the stretch proved critical as he attacked the rim, absorbed contact, and made timely baskets when San Miguel needed them most.

     

    Don Trollano also rebounded from a quiet Game 1 performance, adding 12 key points and stabilizing the Beermen offense during crucial stretches. San Miguel’s improved bench production proved to be one of the biggest storylines of the night, flipping the script from the series opener.

     

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    Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone did not mince words when discussing the defeat, expressing frustration over the dip in contributions from his second unit. In Game 1, Ginebra’s bench outscored San Miguel’s reserves 54–29 in their 99–90 victory. But in Game 2, the tables turned. San Miguel’s bench exploded for 44 points, while Ginebra managed only 37—an imbalance Cone pointed to as the decisive factor.

    “We didn’t do things well tonight. We have to figure it out and see if we can come out better,” Cone said during the postgame media availability. “Our bench did not play well tonight. Nobody from our bench played well tonight.”

     

    Cone acknowledged the inconsistency that often comes with relying heavily on reserve players but remained hopeful that adjustments could be made.

     

    “That’s kind of typical with benches and guys coming off it. They will be great one night and maybe not on the second night. Hopefully, we can come back and compete better in the third game,” he added.

     

    The defeat highlighted areas of concern for Ginebra, particularly on defense and ball movement in the second half. The team struggled to contain San Miguel’s drives and allowed too many second-chance opportunities, while their own offense stagnated late in the game. 

     

    Meanwhile, the Beermen will look to build on their improved execution and energy. With Teng stepping up and the bench firing, head coach Jorge Gallent now has added confidence in his team’s depth as the series intensifies.

     

    With the semifinals now tied at 1–1, both squads head into Game 3 with renewed urgency. The crucial third meeting is scheduled for Friday, January 9, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where momentum—and potentially the direction of the series—will be up for grabs.

     

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  • NBA Roundup: SGA explodes, Curry closes as wild finishes define Thursday slate

    NBA Roundup: SGA explodes, Curry closes as wild finishes define Thursday slate

    A packed Thursday night in the NBA delivered clutch shots, overtime drama, and superstar performances across the league, with several games decided in the final minutes—and even the final seconds.

     

    Barrett lifts Raptors past Hornets at the wire

     

    RJ Barrett came up big when it mattered most, scoring 28 points and grabbing seven rebounds as Toronto edged Charlotte, 97–96. The Raptors survived a late Hornets push behind LaMelo Ball’s all-around line of 15 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Toronto’s defense tightened in the final quarter, limiting Charlotte to just 24 points and preserving the narrow win which was capped off by an Immanuel Quickley buzzer-beater.

     

    Pistons overpower Bulls behind Stewart

     

    Isaiah Stewart delivered a career night, pouring in 31 points to lead Detroit to a convincing 108–93 victory over Chicago. Nikola Vučević posted a strong 20-point, 16-rebound double-double for the Bulls, but Detroit’s physicality and fourth-quarter surge—where they outscored Chicago 32–16—blew the game open.

     

    Embiid, Sixers overwhelm Wizards

     

    Joel Embiid anchored Philadelphia’s 131–110 win with 28 points and seven rebounds as the Sixers outpaced Washington from start to finish. Philly’s offensive balance shone through, especially in the fourth quarter where they dropped 39 points. Tyus Johnson led the Wizards with 20, but Washington couldn’t keep up with the Sixers’ tempo.

     

    Nuggets outlast Celtics in heavyweight duel

     

    Denver leaned on Jamal Murray’s all-around brilliance—22 points, eight rebounds, and a stunning 17 assists—to fend off Boston, 114–110. Jaylen Brown paced the Celtics with 33 points, but the Nuggets’ late execution and Murray’s playmaking proved decisive in a playoff-style clash.

     

    Hawks surge past Pelicans after halftime

     

    Atlanta pulled away from New Orleans for a 117–100 win, fueled by rookie Zaccharie Risacher’s 25-point, eight-rebound outing. Zion Williamson filled the stat sheet with 22 points, eight boards, and six assists, but the Pelicans went cold in the third quarter, scoring just 13 points as the Hawks seized control.

     

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    Banchero shines as Magic survive Nets in OT

     

    Paolo Banchero carried Orlando through overtime, finishing with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists in a thrilling 104–103 win over Brooklyn. Michael Porter Jr. countered with a game-high 34 points for the Nets, but the Magic’s composure in the extra period proved the difference.

    Brunson sparks Knicks’ second-half revival

     

    Jalen Brunson led a spirited turnaround as New York erased a deficit to beat the Clippers, 123–111. Brunson tallied 26 points and seven assists, while the Knicks erupted for 72 points after halftime to snap their losing streak. Ivica Zubac posted 22 points and 11 rebounds in defeat for LA.

     

    Suns cruise in Memphis

     

    Phoenix controlled the tempo in a 117–98 win over Memphis, with Dillon Brooks contributing 21 points and seven rebounds. The Grizzlies struggled offensively, leaning on Jaylen Small’s 14 points and seven assists in a losing effort.

     

    SGA detonates for 46 as Thunder outlast Jazz

     

    Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put on a show, erupting for 46 points, six rebounds, and six assists to lift Oklahoma City past Utah, 129–125, in overtime. Lauri Markkanen answered with 29 points and 13 rebounds for the Jazz, but SGA owned the extra session with clutch scoring.

     

    Doncic triple-double not enough as Spurs beat Lakers

     

    Luka Dončić recorded a massive 38-point, 10-rebound, 10-assist triple-double, but San Antonio still pulled away late for a 107–91 victory. Keldon Johnson led the Spurs with 27 points as LA struggled to generate consistent offense outside of Dončić.

     

    Curry, Butler close strong vs Bucks

     

    Stephen Curry drilled a step-back three in the final moments and finished with 31 points, six rebounds, and seven assists as Golden State held off Milwaukee, 120–113. Giannis Antetokounmpo was dominant with 34 points and 10 rebounds, but the Warriors’ late-game poise sealed the win.

     

    Avdija’s 41 lifts Blazers over Rockets

     

    Deni Avdija delivered one of the performances of the night, exploding for 41 points to push Portland past Houston, 103–102. Amen Thompson nearly stole it for the Rockets with 24 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, but the Blazers survived a tense finish at the Moda Center.

     

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  • KBL: Carl Tamayo explodes for 31 as Changwon topples Seoul

    KBL: Carl Tamayo explodes for 31 as Changwon topples Seoul

    Filipino forward Carl Tamayo scored 31 points to lead the Changwon LG Sakers to an 83–70 victory over the struggling Seoul Samsung Thunders in a Korean Basketball League (KBL) regular-season matchup at Changwon Gymnasium.

     

    Tamayo, who has been one of the most consistent performers for the defending KBL champions this season, tallied 31 points, just six shy of his career high, against a Thunders squad that has had difficulty closing out games this season.

     

    The LG Sakers set the tone early and maintained control in all four quarters, refusing to let Seoul regain momentum at any point. 

     

    Changwon improved to 21–8 with the win, keeping pace near the top of the league standings and strengthening their claim as one of the league’s elite teams. This victory also marked their third win in four outings.

     

    Aside Tamayo’s offensive explosion, Changwon received important contributions from veteran big man Assem Marei, who recorded a double-double with 13 points and 16 rebounds. 

     

    Marei also chipped in four assists and a steal, providing a balanced effort that complemented Tamayo’s scoring.

     

    For Seoul, the game continued a troubling skid as the Thunders suffered their eighth consecutive loss, leaving them at 9–20 on the season. 

     

    Filipino reinforcement Justin Gutang struggled to find his rhythm in Changwon, finishing with just three points in more than 28 minutes of action, along with two rebounds and five assists.

     

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    The only bright spot for Seoul was forward Kerem Kanter, who finished with 40 points and 13 rebounds, but his efforts were not enough to keep the Thunders competitive in the late stages of the game.

     

    Tamayo’s performance continues a pattern of high-level play for the Filipino star in Korea, where he has regularly been among Changwon’s top scorers this season. 

     

    His ability to score both inside and from the perimeter has made him one of the focal points of the Sakers’ attack as they pursue another deep run in the KBL.

     

    With the win, Changwon looks to capitalize on its momentum heading into the second half of the season, while Seoul will need to regroup quickly if it hopes to reverse its fortunes and climb back into playoff contention.

     

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