James Nnaji commits to Baylor, adding to wave of former pros entering NCAA basketball
Nnaji will immediately join the team and he becomes the latest ex-pro to earn NCAA eligibility.
NBA
25th December 2025
Where are all the games? Why Christmas Eve historically lacks sports
Christmas Eve hasn't hosted an NBA or NHL game since 1972.
Nuggets' Cam Johnson expected to miss time after suffering bone bruise in right knee during loss to Mavs: Report
Denver Nuggets forward Cam Johnson is expected to miss time after suffering a bone bruise in his right knee during the fourth quarter of a 131-130 road loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. But Johnson reportedly avoided the worst.
Sources: Nuggets' Johnson suffered bone bruise
An MRI shows that Denver Nuggets forward Cam Johnson has a bone bruise in his right knee and is expected to be out for some time, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.
Victor Wembanyama is playing limited minutes and the Spurs are dominating. That's not great news for the rest of the league
The San Antonio Spurs are being overly cautious with Victor Wembanyama, who’s returning from a calf strain, but that has not hindered their upward trajectory.
Why Spurs-Thunder has all the makings of the NBA's rivalry of the future
The Spurs have beaten the Thunder twice in 10 days, setting up a Christmas showdown that the NBA world will certainly be watching.
To maximize Draymond Green, Warriors must accept the player he is today
Amid the latest Draymond Green drama, the Warriors need to adjust to the reality of what he brings now — and what his best purpose is.
NBA Christmas Day: The 5 most interesting players to watch, featuring LeBron James, Cooper Flagg and a rising Spurs star
Every year, we can quibble over whether the NBA’s schedule-makers aced the annual Christmas Day showcase — whether some fan base or another has cause to feel aggrieved over its squad not getting the brightest possible spotlight (we see you, Detroit!) or whether one participant or another has ridden too long on the struggle bus this season to make for a particularly compelling watch (hey there, Mavs-Warriors!).
Spurs-Thunder, Rockets-Lakers: Ranking the 10 NBA playoff contenders hooping on Christmas
Does the NBA’s Christmas Day schedule mean anything?. As we power rank the 10 teams playing on this yuletide holiday, it is an interesting question in the aftermath of the NBA Cup, which made early-season games feel more meaningful.
Miami Heat's Terry Rozier seeks dismissal of charges in federal gambling case
Rozier was arrested in October along with 30 others.
JJ Redick Says Lakers Don't Have Enough Defenders Who Play With Consistent Effort
Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick was frustrated after his team's blowout loss to the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday. Redick was asked if the Lakers have enough players who are hardwired to defend and play with consistent effort and physicality. "No," Redick replied simply.
NBA Power Rankings: Young risers to watch on all 30 teams
From ROY and MIP races, our NBA insiders break down all 30 teams' young riser in this week's Power Rankings.
The Bounce: Eat up the NBA Christmas games with these perfect food pairings
Zach Harper catches you up on the latest NBA news in our newsletter.
Sixers Signing MarJon Beauchamp To Two-Way Contract; Waiving Hunter Sallis
The Philadelphia 76ers are waiving two-way player Hunter Sallis. The Sixers will sign MarJon Beauchamp to a two-way contract to replace Sallis. Beauchamp has played in seven games for the Delaware Blue Coats of the G League this season.
NBA betting: Two ways to get more value betting on the Thunder this season
Andre Snellings looks at the creative ways to bet the NBA's best team this season and still get value.
A very multisport Christmas? Let's preview three NFL, five NBA games
Christmas Day includes three NFL matchups and five NBA games. We're previewing them all with picks, predictions, storylines and more.
24th December 2025
Ben Simmons Targets Mid-Season NBA Comeback After Purchasing Sport Fishing Team
Ben Simmons believes he may be healthy enough to sign with an NBA team around the All-Star break if he continues to progress in his rigorous rehabilitation program, the unrestricted free agent told Andscape in an exclusive interview.
Malik Williams, Hawks Sign Two-Way Contract
The Atlanta Hawks signed center Malik Williams to a two-way contract Tuesday after the 6-foot-11 big man posted impressive numbers with the College Park Skyhawks in the G League this season.
Luka, AR and the hilarious bromance fueling the Lakers' wild start
The success and virality of this duo is doing more than quiet the typical noise around the Lakers. It also might transition the franchise fully into their post-LeBron era.
Donovan Mitchell shoulders load amid Cavs' injuries, shaky start. There's no other option
Mitchell is averaging more than 30 points per game and playing at an MVP level, but is it a sustainable way to win a championship?.
Disney, ESPN create NBA Christmas Day animated alt-cast for second straight year
ESPN will broadcast "Dunk the Halls" for the second straight year on Christmas Day.
How to watch every NBA game on Christmas Day: Schedule, TV channels, and more
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder play the San Antonio Spurs on Christmas Day, one of five NBA games broadcast that day. Here's how to watch.
Christmas should be for families, not NBA overload. Even LeBron James agrees
The NBA and NFL are dreaming of a green Christmas, and that's not cool. Never mind the TV overload. Think of all the people working them.
The NBA fan's guide to the new TV landscape ahead of Christmas games
Two of the NBA's three broadcast partners have changed, and the newcomers have added some welcome features.
Lakers' Redick blunt: Effort, defense 'a choice'
Los Angeles' defense was shredded in the third quarter of a 132-108 loss to Phoenix on Tuesday night.
Jokic: Flagg 'really mature' in leading Mavs to win
Cooper Flagg had the best long-range shooting performance of his young career and left an impression on three-time MVP Nikola Jokic with his performance down the stretch Tuesday night.
Spurs' defense throttles OKC as rivalry grows
The Spurs beat the Thunder for the second time in 10 days after again overwhelming the defending champions with physicality and speed.
Celtics Could Keep Anfernee Simons For Rest Of Season
The Boston Celtics could hold onto Anfernee Simons for the season, according to Jake Fischer of The People's Insider. The Celtics are reportedly willing to pay some level of luxury tax after trading Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday over last summer.
Timberwolves Register Interest In Coby White, Collin Sexton; Will Not Trade Jaden McDaniels
The Minnesota Timberwolves continue to look to add a point guard in the trade market, sources told Jake Fischer of The People's Insider. The Wolves have registered interest in both the Bulls' Coby White and Hornets' Collin Sexton.
Nets Listening To Offers For Michael Porter Jr.; Looking To Facilitate Multi-Team Trades
The Brooklyn Nets are listening to offers for most of their veteran players, including Michael Porter Jr., sources told Jake Fischer of The People's Insider. Porter is averaging 25.7 points and 7.3 rebounds on the year.
NBA’s next ‘monster’ is born... as defending champs shocked in major title warning — Wrap
Keldon Johnson and Stephon Castle combined for 49 points as the San Antonio Spurs unveiled a ‘new’ celebration after producing a second-half scoring blitz to rout the NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder 130-110.
Cam Johnson To Undergo MRI On Knee Injury
Cam Johnson suffered a right knee injury in the fourth quarter of the Denver Nuggets' 131-130 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday. Johnson will undergo an MRI, according to head coach David Adelman. The Nuggets originally listed Johnson as questionable to return with a right knee sprain.
Cooper Flagg trades buckets with Nikola Jokić, strengthening Rookie of the Year case
Flagg’s flashes continue showing why Dallas could have brighter days ahead with him in the fold.
Nuggets forward Johnson to have MRI on knee
Nuggets forward Cameron Johnson is set to undergo an MRI on his right knee after suffering what the Nuggets called a sprain in Tuesday's loss in Dallas.
Wolves top Towns for 1st time in Minnesota return
Karl-Anthony Towns scored a season-high 40 points, but the Wolves beat him for the first time in a 115-104 win over the Knicks on Tuesday night.
The Wet Bandits: Lauri Markkanen, Jazz VP dress as 'Home Alone' duo
The Utah Jazz star appropriately took the role of Marv Murchins, while Evan Phillips dressed as Harry Lyme.
Spurs cruise past Thunder ahead of Christmas rematch, now account for 2 of OKC's 4 losses on the season
The Oklahoma City Thunder have now lost four games this season. The San Antonio Spurs account for half of those losses. With Victor Wembanyama coming off the bench again, the Spurs rolled past the Thunder 130-110 in San Antonio on Tuesday night.
‘Biggest story of the season’: Giddey erupts in latest ‘crazy’ All-Star statement
Josh Giddey recorded his seventh triple-double of the season to strengthen his bid for a maiden All-Star nod as the Chicago Bulls again got the better of the Atlanta Hawks.
Ben Simmons' new team is on a boat. He buys stake in pro fishing team before NBA comeback attempt
Simmons, a controlling operator for a Sports Fishing Championship team, hopes to return to the NBA either this season or next season.
‘Engaging clubs’: NBA takes next step in landmark Europe expansion after coach scathes move
The NBA and International Basketball Federation (FIBA) announced on Tuesday they would begin prospecting teams and owners as part of their project of creating a pan-European men’s basketball league — but it hasn’t been met warmly everywhere.
Donovan Mitchell diary: ‘We’re at that crossroad, right?’
INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers entered the season dreaming about winning the second NBA title in franchise history.
NBA Christmas Day Previews
Subscribe to The Dunker SpotApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeHappy Holidays from The Dunker Spot!. Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones previewed this year's Christmas slate. We have Cavaliers vs. Knicks, Spurs vs.
‘In awe of what the sport is’: Ben Simmons’ foray into ‘niche’ sport with NBA career in limbo
With his NBA career still in jeopardy, Ben Simmons has made a curious foray into a new sport: fishing.
Wizards' Cam Whitmore is the latest NBA player to be sidelined with deep vein thrombosis
Jess Rapfogel via Getty ImagesWashington Wizards forward Cam Whitmore is the latest NBA player to be sidelined with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The Wizards announced his condition on Tuesday. Whitmore was sidelined for two games with what was initially diagnosed as shoulder soreness.
NBA Gold Logoman drums up collector excitement for Topps Chrome Basketball
Last week’s release of Topps Chrome Basketball brought plenty of excitement to collectors. It marked the first Topps Chrome Basketball product since 2009 — when Stephen Curry was a rookie. This drop wasn’t going to happen quietly.
Terry Rozier's Attorneys Seek Dismissal Of Federal Charges In Sports Betting Case
Attorneys for Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier filed a motion Tuesday asking a federal judge to dismiss wire fraud charges stemming from his alleged involvement in a sports betting scheme, arguing the government failed to clearly state his offense.
Cam Whitmore Out Indefinitely With Deep Vein Thrombosis
Cam Whitmore has been diagnosed with upper-extremity deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder and has been ruled out indefinitely. Whitmore missed the Washington Wizards' two most recent games due to shoulder soreness and further testing revealed his blood clot.
Wizards forward Cam Whitmore diagnosed with blood clot in shoulder, out indefinitely
Whitmore is the latest NBA player to be diagnosed with the condition, joining a list that includes Victor Wembanyama and Damian Lillard.
NBA Christmas Day players to watch + should the NBA ditch the Draft?
Subscribe to The Big NumberApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube. Tom Haberstroh & Dan Devine break down the NBA’s Christmas Day slate and preview Cooper Flagg’s historic holiday start at just 19 years, 4 days old.
Wiz F Whitmore out with deep vein thrombosis
Wizards forward Cam Whitmore has been diagnosed with upper-extremity deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder and will be out indefinitely.
Rozier lawyers move to dismiss betting charges
Terry Rozier attorneys say the government overstepped when it accused his client of wire fraud stemming from his alleged involvement in a sports betting scheme and is asking a federal judge to dismiss the charges.
Hawks reserve C Dante (ACL) out rest of season
Hawks reserve center N'Faly Dante will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a torn right ACL in a G League game on Dec. 19.
NBA Power Rankings: Are the Thunder still No. 1 after losing to West rivals?
Welcome back to the world’s most perfect NBA power rankings. The defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder dropped two games in a three-outing span, losing to the Western Conference rival San Antonio Spurs and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Kenny Atkinson Not On Hot Seat Despite Cavaliers' Struggles
Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson is not on the hot seat despite the team's poor start to the season, multiple league sources with direct knowledge of the franchise's thinking told The Athletic.
Kings reportedly place guard Malik Monk on trade block ahead of Feb. 5 deadline
It’s been a rough start to the 2025-26 season for the Sacramento Kings. As rumors swirl about who could be on the trade block, guard Malik Monk has been made available, according to Chris Haynes.
NBA return on hold, Ben Simmons angling for success in pro fishing
TARZANA, Calif. – NBA free agent Ben Simmons is back with a team, just not in the NBA yet. Rather, the avid fisherman is the new controlling operator of the South Florida Sails of the Sport Fishing Championship.
N'Faly Dante Out For Season With Torn ACL
N'Faly Dante sustained a right knee injury during the College Park Skyhawks game vs.
Christmas Day sports schedule: When and how to watch every NFL and NBA game on Dec. 25
When Andy Williams wrote the lyrics to "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" in 1963, it's unlikely he had sports on his mind. But sports fans have been given a few extra presents the past few years, as both the NBA and NFL have made a habit of playing games on the holiday.
Nikola Jokic's 'First Love' For Horses Revealed By Teammates, Assistant Coach
Denver Nuggets assistant coach Ogi Stojakovic believes Nikola Jokic's passion for horses surpasses even his love for basketball, calling it the three-time NBA MVP's "first love" after witnessing the big man's devotion to the animals throughout their years together.
Are the Rockets true contenders? Why their recent struggles are cause for concern
Following Houston’s 125-124 puzzling overtime loss to Sacramento on Sunday, head coach Ime Udoka didn’t mince words in describing his team’s recent mentality. “Our approach wasn’t right,” Udoka told reporters. “We didn’t deserve to win.
Maybe NBA teams shouldn't foul up 3 points, but what about 2?
Plus: Who stood out at the G League Winter Showcase? And could UNC's Caleb Wilson push higher up draft boards?.
The Jake Fischer Latest: All the good stuff I heard at the G League Showcase in Orlando
ORLANDO, Fla. — There have been many different G League Showcases. The closest thing that the NBA offers to Major League Baseball's winter meetings has been hosted from Sioux Falls to Boise, from Santa Cruz to suburban Toronto and more recently from Las Vegas to Orlando.
FanDuel SN channels could be sold as broadcaster scrambles for funds
If a sale falls through, Main Street Sports Group could ultimately be shut down following the current NBA and NHL seasons.
The Bounce: Cameron Boozer makes his case as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft
Zach Harper catches you up on the latest NBA news in our newsletter.
NBA reportedly considering new measures to prevent teams from tanking games for better draft picks
The NBA is considering enacting a number of new measures after the illegal gambling arrests that rocked the league earlier this season.
Cameron Payne Signs With KK Partizan
Veteran point guard Cameron Payne has signed with KK Partizan in Serbia. It's a rest-of-season deal per the team's press release. Payne went to training camp with the Indiana Pacers this season, but was waived at the end of the preseason.
NBA Considering Draft Reform To Prevent Tanking
In the wake of a gambling scandal that has rocked the league, the NBA is looking at draft reform as a way to prevent teams from tanking.
Jalen Green Out At Least 2-3 More Weeks Due To Hamstring Strain
The Phoenix Suns announced that guard Jalen Green will miss at least two to three more weeks as he continues to recover from a strained right hamstring. The Suns said Green is making "good progress" and will be re-evaluated in two-to-three weeks. Green was initially injured during the preseason.
Sources: NBA eyes new ways to combat tanking
The NBA has begun to gather input from its owners and GMs on new ways to combat tanking, sources told ESPN.
Victor Wembanyama is preaching ethical basketball. There's a larger truth to it all
The conversation around "ethical basketball" is about much more than just drawing fouls.
Cavs' Kenny Atkinson 'not on the hot seat' despite disappointing start: Sources
Amid rocky start well below expectations, Atkinson professes confidence: “I’m buying this dip. I know what we got comin’.".
Cavs Reluctant To Trade Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen
The Cleveland Cavaliers are reluctant to trade Darius Garland or Jarrett Allen in an attempt to shake up their team. The Cavaliers know that offers will come in lower than desired, because both Garland and Allen have dealt with injuries and their play is down this season.
Paolo Banchero says narrative that his pairing with Franz Wagner doesn't work is 'bull---’
Facing injuries, the Magic and their former No. 1 pick have not yet met the lofty expectations they held for this season.
23rd December 2025
Five tales -- and a few gripes -- from playing on Christmas
With Christmas games on the horizon, stars and coaches share stories about playing on Dec. 25.
???? LeBron vs. Brooks timeline: Tension, trash talk
The two players have had their fair share of battles on the court through the years.
The budding Spurs-Thunder rivalry that could shape the future of the West
The Spurs and Thunder face each other twice this week, including on Christmas Day (2:30 p.m. ET, ESPN).
Draymond Green Leaves Bench After Argument With Steve Kerr In Warriors' Win
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green and coach Steve Kerr had a heated argument during a third-quarter timeout Monday night, leading Green to leave the bench and then sit on it upon his return for the remainder of the Warriors' 120-97 victory over the Orlando Magic.
Why horses turn Nikola Jokić from an NBA MVP into a 'stable boy'
The world has witnessed Nikola Jokić's love of horses. But only a few see the depth of passion: "They don't look at me as an NBA player.".
Green leaves court after heated exchange with Kerr
Warriors coach Steve Kerr and forward Draymond Green got into a heated argument during a third-quarter timeout Monday night, causing Green to leave the bench and miss the final 20 minutes of a 120-97 win over the Magic.
NBA Games Averaging 1.81M Viewers Across NBC, ESPN, Prime Video; Up 27% From Last Year
NBA games are averaging 1.81 million viewers across NBCUniversal, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video this season, representing a 27% increase from last year.
Rick Carlisle To Step Down As President Of Coaches Association; Will Be Replaced By J.B. Bickerstaff
Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle is set to step down as the president of the National Basketball Coaches Association at the end of December. Carlisle will be replaced by Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff.
Draymond Green leaves Warriors win over Magic early after heated argument with Steve Kerr: 'We had it out'
Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green left Monday night’s win over the Orlando Magic early after he got into an argument with head coach Steve Kerr.
Pacers hope NBA looks at play that injured Jackson
Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle wants the NBA to look at a play in the first quarter where he says Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta elbowed Isaiah Jackson twice, forcing the forward out of his team's 103-95 loss as he was evaluated for a concussion.
Hornets rookie Knueppel fastest to make 100 3s
Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel became the fastest player to make 100 3s in the NBA, reaching the mark in 12 fewer games than the next-fastest player.
Zion powers Pels to season-best 5th straight win
Zion Williamson scored 24 points, including 10 straight in a decisive two-minute span of the fourth quarter, to lead the Pelicans over the Mavericks.
Aussie’s big step forward; Zion eruption in shock turnaround after trade gamble — NBA Wrap
Darius Garland went off with a big double-double and the Cleveland Cavaliers secured a much-needed bounce-back win over the Charlotte Hornets 139-132.
Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel sets NBA record as fastest player to reach 100 made 3-pointers
Kon Knueppel didn’t need much time to set a new NBA record this season. The Charlotte Hornets rookie is now the fastest player in league history to reach 100 career made 3-pointers.
Luka Doncic Out Against Suns With Leg Contusion, Austin Reaves Set To Return
Luka Doncic will miss Tuesday's game against the Phoenix Suns with a lower left leg contusion suffered Saturday against the LA Clippers. The injury occurred in the first quarter when Bogdan Bogdanovic kneed Doncic in the left calf. JJ Redick said Doncic is considered day-to-day.
13 NBA Teams Face Broadcast Uncertainty As Main Street Pursues DAZN Sale
Main Street Sports Group missed a December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals and could wind down operations if a sale to DAZN does not close by January, sources told Sports Business Journal. The scenario would affect broadcast rights for 13 NBA teams, nearly half the league.
‘Made it ours’: Star’s big statement on copycat 77-year NBA tradition as bitter rivalry renews
In the NBA, Christmas Day games are a 77-year-old tradition, dating back to 1947. With the NBL set to host its fourth consecutive game on December 25, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Christmas Day is fast becoming a tradition of its own for the league.
Carlisle passing helm of NBCA to Bickerstaff
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle will step down as president of the National Basketball Coaches Association, and Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff will replace him.
Luka Dončić to miss Lakers' matchup vs. Suns due to left leg contusion
When the Lakers opened practice to media on Monday, Dončić had a large wrap on the calf muscle.
‘Trade it now’: Why Aussie link up is the ‘wildcard’ in Giannis race... and it might need to move fast
The list of suitors willing to make an all-in trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo is seemingly shrinking. At least in-season.
FULL 15 in 60 (Eastern Conference 12.21.25)
Nate and Danny are back for their bi-weekly look around the Eastern Conference with segments on each of the 15 teams. Knicks / Heat-Jalen Brunson's offensive takeover, Kel'el Ware's breakout game. Nets/Raptors-The Nets.
Lakers list Doncic (calf contusion) out vs. Suns
Lakers star Luka Doncic is out for Tuesday's game in Phoenix due to a left calf contusion.
Jaren Jackson Jr., Jalen Brunson Named NBA's Players Of Week 9
Jaren Jackson Jr. and Jalen Brunson have been named the NBA's Players of Week 9. Jackson averaged 27.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.7 blocks as the Memphis Grizzlies went 2-1. Brunson averaged 31.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 8.0 assists as the New York Knicks went 2-1 and also won the NBA Cup.
NBA, FIBA Announce Plans For Professional European Basketball League
The NBA and FIBA announced they will move forward with plans to create a new professional pan-European men's basketball league. The organizations will begin engaging prospective teams and ownership groups in January.
Malik Monk Confused By Doug Christie's Decision To Pull Him From Rotation
Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk said he does not understand why coach Doug Christie benched him despite private and public explanations. Monk spoke exclusively with The Sacramento Bee before Sunday's 125-124 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets.
NBA ‘Naughty & Nice Lists’ with KOC & Tom Haberstroh
Subscribe to The Kevin O'Connor ShowApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeKevin O’Connor and Tom Haberstroh discuss who is on the NBA 'Naughty' and 'Nice' lists.
Bucks Canvassing NBA At G League Showcase For Roster Upgrades Ahead Of Trade Deadline
The Milwaukee Bucks are actively exploring trades to improve their roster ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline, multiple teams at the G-League showcase in Orlando confirmed to ESPN. Milwaukee has lost three consecutive games and sits three games out of the final play-in spot in the Eastern Conference.
