What Sunday's shocking trade means for the East, the KD saga and the NBA draft
Sunday's shocking deal has ramifications far beyond Orlando and Memphis -- including the Kevin Durant trade saga.
Basketball
16th June 2025
Texas State, cryptic posts and the Pac-12's next move
Texas State looms as the favorite to join the Pac-12. Why could that happen? What would come next? And what about Memphis?.
In Desmond Bane trade, Grizzlies and Magic make opposite bets for the future
With this deal, Orlando's core is clearly defined, and Memphis has the assets to keep reshaping its roster.
Grading the Bane trade between Orlando and Memphis
The NBA offseason is almost here, and deals are already underway. Catch up on the latest trade grades.
Sky's Reese 2nd youngest to record triple-double
Angel Reese had 11 points, 11 assists and 13 rebounds for her first career triple-double in the Sky's 78-66 win over the Sun on Sunday.
Pacers vs. Thunder NBA Finals: Alex Caruso has been giving OKC a little bit of everything — including a lot more minutes
OKLAHOMA CITY — Through the first seven and a half months of this NBA season, Alex Caruso had only topped 30 minutes in a game twice.
Billy Donovan, Bulls Working Out Contract Extension
The Chicago Bulls shut down the New York Knicks interest in head coach Billy Donovan. The Bulls not only rejected the Knicks request to speak to Donovan about their opening, but now Donovan might be staying in Chicago longer too. Donovan and the Bulls are in process of signing a contract extension.
Carlisle says Foster scrutiny is 'unjust and stupid'
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle on Sunday defended referee Scott Foster, who has come under fire for his officiating in Game 4 of the NBA Finals.
NBA blown away by $319m trade stunner as blockbuster move raises huge question over All-Star
The Magic seem to sense a big opportunity in the Eastern Conference, and they’re pushing their chips in.
Lakers Likely To Retain Trey Jemison, Christian Koloko For Next Season
The Los Angeles Lakers are looking for a starting center this offseason. While that search plays out, the Lakers are expected to keep some center depth via two-way contracts. Los Angeles is expected to keep both Trey Jemison III and Christian Koloko for next season.
Pacers vs. Thunder NBA Finals: Indiana coach Rick Carlisle calls criticism of referee Scott Foster "awful," "stupid"
OKLAHOMA CITY — Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle on Sunday decried the swell of public criticism of the officiating that flowed following the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Game 4 win in the 2025 NBA Finals, describing the carping on perceived mistaken calls and non-calls — specifically those involving longtime NBA referee Scott Foster — as, among other things, “awful” and “stupid.”.
Sunday Best: The latest on Kevin Durant trade talks ... plus LOTS more from the NBA grapevine
Around-the-league NBA notes on a Sunday?. On Father's Day even?. On a Father's Day that has already delivered a significant NBA trade?. As it should be!. Amid countless forecasts this month from league observers that this is going to be a very active offseason, momentum is building on a Durant deal and the Orlando Magic have already swung big, swiftly agreeing Sunday to package four unprotected first-round picks and an additional first-round pick swap with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony to acquire Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle defends referee Scott Foster: 'He’s a great official'
Lightning rod referee drew criticism from Indiana fans and media after Thunder rallied late to win Game 4 of NBA Finals.
Grizzlies send Bane to Magic in blockbuster trade
The Grizzlies traded Desmond Bane to the Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks and one first-round pick swap.
Desmond Bane trade grades: Magic, Grizzlies swap guards, but did Orlando give up too much?
The Magic are sending a lot of draft capital to Memphis in this deal. They hope it will be worth it.
What contract could Myles Turner get this summer? We pitched deals to 10 NBA star free agents
A $125 million deal for Josh Giddey? Who could give $80 million to Jonathan Kuminga? See what our resident GM is offering 10 star free agents.
Free agency: Latest signings, news, buzz, reports
The latest buzz ahead of the offseason from our NBA Insiders.
Desmond Bane trade analysis: Magic's major move signals they are going all in
In a surprising mid-June trade, the Orlando Magic just tried to overshadow the NBA Finals (the league has to love that!) by pulling off a blockbuster Sunday, acquiring shooting guard Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Grizzlies trade Desmond Bane to Magic for Caldwell-Pope, Anthony, picks
Orlando is sending four first-round picks and a future first-round pick swap to Memphis in the deal.
Magic Acquire Desmond Bane From Grizzlies For Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, Four First Round Picks
The Orlando Magic have agreed to acquire Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks and a first-round pick swap.
Grizzlies trading Desmond Bane to Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, 4 first-round picks: Report
The Memphis Grizzlies are trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony and several draft picks, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
Grizzlies trade Desmond Bane to Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, 4 first-round picks
The Memphis Grizzlies are trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony and several draft picks, ESPN's Shams Charania first reported.
15th June 2025
An 11-year NBA veteran and the emergency transplant that saved his life
Sixteen months ago, Scot Pollard was in active heart failure, about to die. Then came a life-saving transplant, uniting two families -- and two fathers -- forever.
Will anybody coach the New York Knicks? It's a fair question.
Welcome to The Pulse, The Athletic's daily sports newsletter.
Wolves Not Including Jaden McDaniels In Kevin Durant Trade Talks
The Phoenix Suns are moving forward with trade discussions for forward Kevin Durant. Several teams are involved, with Durant having given Phoenix preferred teams that include the San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets and Miami Heat.
NBA players and shoe deals: Motivation shifts to ownership, control vs. the brand
A signature shoe deal for some players now involves a company offering to allow them to have input, company equity and royalties for sales.
Dwyane Wade wears many hats after the NBA: Father, entrepreneur, cancer survivor
"I wanted to jump right into my strengths when I retired — and then obviously learn other things along the way," Wade said.
‘Serious traction’: NBA superstar on verge of trade — and he has three teams he wants to join
It sounds like Kevin Durant is on the verge of being traded and the Suns superstar reportedly has a wish list of teams he would like to join.
Durant prefers Heat, Spurs, Rockets, sources say
The Heat, Spurs and Rockets are Suns star Kevin Durant's preferred trade destinations, sources told ESPN.
Sources: Rockets, Adams reach $39M extension
Rockets center Steven Adams has agreed to a three-year, $39 million contract extension to stay with the franchise, sources told ESPN.
‘This is bonkers’: Caitlin Clark does unthinkable in 38 seconds of madness
We’ve never seen anything like this.
Kevin Durant reportedly has 3 preferred trade destinations: Spurs, Rockets and Heat
The Kevin Durant trade saga appears to be entering its endgame, and three teams have emerged as the Phoenix Suns star's preferred destinations.
Heat, Rockets, Spurs Are Kevin Durant's Preferred Trade Destinations; Suns Focused On Getting Best Deal
The Phoenix Suns are involving Kevin Durant in finding his next team via trade. However, the Suns are focused on finding the best deal for the franchise, regardless of Durant's desires.
Kevin Durant potential trade destinations, and the obstacles that exist
Durant is widely expected to be traded from the Suns soon. But for as great as he is, it’s easy to see why a deal is tough to get done here.
Mouhamed Faye Withdraws From 2025 NBA Draft
Senegalese center Mouhamed Faye has withdrawn as an Early Entry Candidate from the 2025 NBA Draft. Faye will now explore NCAA and other professional opportunities for next season.
Ben Henshall Withdraws From 2025 NBA Draft
Australian guard Ben Henshall has withdrawn as an Early Entry Candidate from the 2025 NBA Draft. Henshall is now set to consider NCAA and other professional opportunities for next season. The 6-foot-5 guard will turn 21 years old next week.
Clark's 32 help Fever hand first loss to Liberty
Caitlin Clark scored a season-high 32 points in her return as the Fever handed the Liberty their first loss of the season.
Andscape at the NBA Finals: SGA reminds why he’s MVP, Hali CAN’T take over GAME 4
Welcome to Andscape at NBA Finals, where senior NBA writer Marc J. Spears, columnist William C. Rhoden and on-air contributor Sheila Matthews will get into what’s happening on and off the court in Oklahoma City and Indianapolis.
How Clark helped the Fever end the Liberty's perfect season
Caitlin Clark returned from a quad injury, hit seven 3-pointers and scored 32 points for the Fever (5-5).
Storm grant Li's request, trade center to Wings
The Wings have acquired Li Yueru from the Storm after the center requested a trade in a quest for more playing time.
Lynx coach: Shooting of lawmakers hits 'home'
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve acknowledged it would be difficult to play Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Sparks after two Minnesota lawmakers were shot and one was killed in what Gov. Tim Walz described as "targeted political violence.".
Heat, Suns Kevin Durant Talks Could Hinge On Kel'el Ware
The Miami Heat could have the easiest pathway to acquiring Kevin Durant via trade due to their ability to send various starting-level players to the Phoenix Suns, along with three tradeable first round picks.
Steven Adams reportedly agrees to 3-year, $39 million extension to stay with the Rockets
Steven Adams has agreed to a three-year extension worth $39 million to stay with the Houston Rockets. On Saturday, Shams Charania reported the extension, which follows Adams' first year in Houston.
Thunder Rally To Win Game 4 Behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Historic Finish
Oklahoma City Thunder MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 15 points in the final 4:38 to lead a dramatic comeback victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. The Thunder won 111-104 to even the series at 2-2 after trailing by 10 points late in the third quarter.
Suns Could Trade Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale To Reduce Tax Bill
The Phoenix Suns could also look to move guard Grayson Allen or forward Royce O'Neale as part of a Kevin Durant. The Suns are exploring ways to reduce their luxury tax bill, and possibly to dip below the second apron. Moving Allen or O'Neale could further those goals.
Li Yueru Traded By Storm To Wings Following Trade Request
Li Yueru has had her trade request fulfilled by the Seattle Storm as she's been traded to the Dallas Wings for a second round pick in 2026 and a third round pick in 2027. Li had received limited playing time with the Storm following her offseason trade.
Steven Adams, Rockets Agree To Three-Year, $39M Extension
Steven Adams and the Houston Rockets have agreed to a three-year, $39 million contract extension. Adams became a key part of the Rockets finishing second in the Western Conference during the regular season and proved he could play alongside Alperen Sengun in their double-big lineup.
Inside the Kevin Durant Trade Talks
Future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant is in the process of being traded. You are about to read more on that process than you will find anywhere else.
Kyle Lowry Likely To Return To Sixers Next Season
Guard Kyle Lowry is likely to return to the Philadelphia 76ers for next season. The Sixers consider Lowry an ideal veteran mentor for young guards Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain.
Stephen A. Smith spotted playing solitaire on his phone during Game 4 of the NBA Finals
Stephen A. Smith was put in the hot seat on social media after getting spotted playing solitaire during Game 4 of the NBA Finals. The ESPN star was filmed playing the mobile game amid the action between the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday night.
Spurs, Raptors Still Considered Teams To Watch For Kevin Durant Trade
After discussing Game 4 of the NBA Finals on The Zach Lowe show, the eponymous host and Bill Simmons talked NBA trade buzz. Most of the discussion focused on a seemingly impending Kevin Durant trade from the Phoenix Suns.
From the Barnes twins to Olajuwon brothers: These next-gen stars balled out at the NBPA Top 100 camp
From the Matt Barnes' twins to Hakeem Olajuwon's son, these stars had next at the NBPA Top 100 camp.
'The secret sauce': Inside the closets of superstars SGA and Tyrese Haliburton
From clutch performances to fashion icons, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's and Tyrese Haliburton's closets contain the magic.
Cavs Looking For Trade Options To Save Money For Re-Signing Free Agents
The Cleveland Cavaliers want to re-sign Ty Jerome this offseason. The Cavaliers would also like to retain Sam Merrill, if possible. The challenge for Cleveland is that their payroll is already extremely high without either free agent guard in the fold.
14th June 2025
The NBA draft's best at 20 different traits, skills: Where Flagg, Bailey and Fears stand out
Best clutch player? Top on-ball defender? Elite court vision? We hand out superlatives for this year's class.
Pacers let little things slip in Game 4 loss to Thunder but remain confident
After a rare failure in the clutch during these playoffs, Indiana has to tighten up in a few areas with the series tied 2-2.
Why did Pacers go 'stagnant' in fourth quarter of Game 4 loss? They wish they knew
For more than three quarters, the Indiana Pacers were rolling. Then they broke down.
'Stoic' SGA shuts up critics with torrid fourth quarter to even NBA Finals
Don't mistake the Oklahoma City MVP's calm approach for weakness, as he showed his greatness down the stretch of Game 4.
Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams are motor that keeps Thunder running in NBA Finals
In Game 4, the Thunder's entire big three shined at various points to pull out a hard-fought road win and tie the series.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Game 4 closing stretch could be one to remember for Thunder
"Underneath that stoic personality is a deep, deep-rooted competitiveness," teammate Alex Caruso said of the NBA MVP.
On the doorstep of NBA Finals control, the Pacers let Game 4 slip away
Make no mistake: If Indiana goes on to drop this series, Friday's game will be the cause. The Pacers simply found so many ways to lose.
Thunder vs. Pacers: How OKC's collective team effort gave Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the juice to close out Game 4
INDIANAPOLIS — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander told anyone who would listen earlier in these 2025 NBA Finals: Yes, he’s the one with the Most Valuable Player trophy and the matinee idol billing, but the Thunder are far from a solo act.
After Game 4 low, Pacers look to 'dig in' at 2-2
The Pacers are looking to put the disappointment of Game 4 behind them as they enter a hostile environment in Oklahoma City with the NBA Finals tied at 2. Said Tyrese Haliburton: "I wouldn't want to go to war with any other group.".
Thunder vs. Pacers: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander takes his place in NBA Finals lore as he saves the series and OKC's season
INDIANAPOLIS — The moment was here — everyone playing knew it, everyone in Gainbridge Fieldhouse knew it, and it couldn’t be escaped.
Thunder vs. Pacers: Indiana's magic runs out in Game 4 of the NBA Finals — 'We should have got this one today'
INDIANAPOLIS — In the grand scheme of things, following a 111-104 loss Friday night to the 68-win, top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, the fourth-seeded Indiana Pacers have done their job.
Thunder rally, Pacers gag in Game 4 + KD trade watch & draft smoke
Subscribe to The Kevin O'Connor ShowApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeKevin O'Connor and Tom Haberstroh went LIVE following Game 4 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers.
SGA's 4th-quarter flurry saves OKC, evens Finals
Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 15-point fourth quarter, the Thunder rallied from a 10-point second-half deficit to win 111-104 and tie the NBA Finals at 2-2.
Phil Pressey Named Head Coach Of Maine Celtics
The Boston Celtics named Phil Pressey the head coach of the G League's Maine Celtics on Friday, sources told Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. Pressey spent the last two seasons as a player enhancement coach with the Celtics.
WNBA Agrees To Multi-Year Deal To Continue Airing Games On ION
ION will continue to air WNBA games after the league reached a new multiyear agreement with Scripps. The new deal will take effect in 2026. Terms were not disclosed.
Howard (9 3s) ties record; Griner now 2nd in blocks
Rhyne Howard made a career-high nine 3-pointers -- tying the WNBA single-game record -- and finished with a season-high 36 points in the Dream's win over the Sky. Also, Brittney Griner moved into second place on the WNBA career blocks list.
Knicks To Meet With Taylor Jenkins, Mike Brown Next Week
The New York Knicks are planning to meet with Taylor Jenkins and Mike Brown next week to discuss their head coach vacancy, sources told Shames Charania of ESPN. The Knicks previously met with Brown in 2020, with Brown making a strong impression on the team.
Thunder flip script against comeback-king Pacers, rally in fourth to tie NBA Finals
Indiana went uncharacteristically cold late, and now the finals are a best-of-three series.
Sources: Knicks set for talks with Brown, Jenkins
The Knicks are set to begin the first stage of formal interviews for their head coaching job next week, with plans to meet with Mike Brown and Taylor Jenkins, sources told ESPN.
‘How is this happening?’: SGA’s incredible 54-year first as big call sparks NBA Finals comeback
For the majority of Saturday’s game, it felt like the Indiana Pacers were cruising. The scoreboard may not have shown it, but a 3-1 NBA Finals series lead was there for the taking.
WNBA reaches media rights deal to stay on ION
WNBA regular-season games will continue to air on ION after the league and Scripps reached a multiyear media rights deal.
Knicks set to interview Taylor Jenkins, Mike Brown next week: Sources
New York is also expected to start contacting organizations to speak with assistant head coaches about its opening.
NBA trade rumors, Daryl Morey's failures, Knicks lacking toughness and LeBron's longevity
On this episode of Good Word with Goodwill, Vince and Marcus Morris discuss trade rumors surrounding Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Next, Vince and Marcus take a look at the New York Knicks head coach search and why Daryl Morey has failed the Philadelphia 76ers.
Aces star Wilson placed in concussion protocol
The Las Vegas Aces placed three-time WNBA MVP A'ja Wilson in the concussion protocol Friday and will miss the team's game against the Dallas Wings.
Kevin Durant isn't the player he once was, and that makes any potential deal tricky
Unless you've been living under a rock — in which case, why would you ever willingly do that? — the fate of Kevin Durant in Phoenix has been more or less settled for months now.
2025 NBA Draft scouting report: Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane Bullets
For a two-round mock draft and a big board with full scouting reports, check out my NBA Draft Guide.Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane BulletsHeight: 7-3 • Weight: 257 • Age: 18. Summary: Zikarsky is a big Australian center who plays a traditional role as an interior finisher and rim protector.
2025 NBA Draft scouting report: Yanic Konan Niederhauser, F/C, Penn State
For a two-round mock draft and a big board with full scouting reports, check out my NBA Draft Guide.
NBA trade rumors: The latest on a Kevin Durant deal, Knicks' coaching search and Giannis Antetokounmpo moves
NBA commissioner Adam Silver might prefer that teams don't make blockbuster trades or other league-altering types of news during the NBA Finals, while the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers compete for a championship.
2025 NBA Draft scouting report: Neoklis Avdalas, F, Panathinaikos
For a two-round mock draft and a big board with full scouting reports, check out my NBA Draft Guide.Neoklis Avdalas, F, PanathinaikosHeight: 6-8 • Weight: 198 • Age: 19. Summary: Avdalas is a Greek forward with playmaking skill and versatility.
Anthony Slater Leaving The Athletic For ESPN
Anthony Slater will leave The Athletic to join ESPN later this summer.
Clippers Emerge As Possible Kevin Durant Trade Destination
The LA Clippers have emerged this week as a potential wildcard trade suitor for Kevin Durant, sources tell ESPN. Zach Lowe of The Ringer also suggested the Clippers as a team who could acquire Durant.
Ty Jerome Could Sign For Full Midlevel Exception
The market for Ty Jerome in free agency could reach the full midlevel exception starting at $14.1 million in Year 1. Jerome was on a $2.5 million deal for the 2024-25 season with the Cleveland Cavaliers and finished third in Sixth Man of the Year voting.
KD to the Knicks? It's one of five trade offers we pitched our resident GM -- see which deal he picked
With the Suns and Durant meeting to sift through trade destinations, our NBA insiders break down five deals that work -- and pick a winner in the potential KD sweepstakes.
Fever star Clark set for return against Liberty
Caitlin Clark is set to make her return to the Fever lineup after missing the past five games with a quad strain.
Kevin Durant trade appears imminent as suitors submit final offers to Suns: Report
Kevin Durant could be joining his fifth franchise by the end of the weekend, according to ESPN's Shams Charania, who reported Friday on "The Pat McAfee Show" that the Miami Heat, Houston Rockets and Minnesota Timberwolves are submitting their final offers for the Phoenix Suns star forward.
Suns Accelerate Kevin Durant Trade Talks With Rockets, Heat, Wolves Most Engaged
The Phoenix Suns are intensifying Kevin Durant trade discussions with a deal expected before the NBA Draft. Three franchises have emerged as the primary contenders: the Houston Rockets, Miami Heat, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Bucks Plan To Stay In Tax Under 2nd Apron To Keep Core Intact Alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to begin the 2025-26 season with the Milwaukee Bucks, according to sources. However, the current sentiment could change throughout the offseason depending on roster construction and organizational decisions.
Caitlin Clark Wants To Spend Entire WNBA Career With Indiana Fever
Caitlin Clark has expressed her desire to remain with the Indiana Fever for her entire WNBA career. Clark cited the passionate fanbase and unique basketball culture as primary reasons for wanting to build her legacy in Indiana.
Pacers vs. Thunder odds: Best bets, predictions for NBA Finals Game 4
The Indiana Pacers won Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday night, 116-107, over the Oklahoma City Thunder as 5.5-point home underdogs, continuing Indiana's impressive postseason run against the spread. The Thunder are now 0-8 ATS on the road in the 2025 playoffs.
Source: Nuggets' Westbrook to decline option
Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook is declining his $3.4 million player option for next season and will become a free agent later this month, a source told ESPN's Shams Charania.
Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam has eyes of Africa on him during NBA Finals
INDIANAPOLIS – Pascal Siakam brought the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy to the Giants of Africa basketball camp in Yaoundé, Cameroon, after winning an NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019. The Cameroon native’s hope was to inspire the next generation of African basketball players.
Thunder vs. Pacers: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander must 'get it done' for OKC, but Indiana is putting the MVP on mute
INDIANAPOLIS — Before Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals, Rick Carlisle did not want to talk about the Indiana Pacers’ pickup points — how far away from their own basket they would have a defender meet the Oklahoma City Thunder’s ball-handlers.
What have the Thunder lacked en route to 2-1 hole against Pacers? Cohesive play
The Pacers have a 2-1 series lead primarily because the Thunder have gotten away from team basketball. Can that change in Game 4?.
WNBA grades one month in: Liberty, Lynx are top of class, but two teams score F grades
Which teams have exceeded expectations and which have fallen short one month into the 2025 season? We have grades and questions.
13th June 2025
Russell Westbrook declines player option with Nuggets, will become free agent: Report
Russell Westbrook has declined his player option for next season with the Denver Nuggets, and will become an unrestricted free agent on June 30, according to Marc Stein. Westbrook's player option was worth $3.5 million.
Tyrese Haliburton, Caitlin Clark and the most powerful friendship in basketball
From group chats to high-level X's and O's breakdowns, the two superstars have pushed themselves -- and each other -- to the top of the basketball universe.
