The Golden State Warriors kept their&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;title defense alive on Wednesday with a 121-106 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, who saw star center Anthony Davis depart after taking a blow to the head. The Warriors cut the deficit in their Western Conference semi-final series to 3-2. The New York Knicks also stayed alive as Jalen Brunson scored 38 points in a 112-103 victory over the Miami Heat at Madison Square Garden that pushed their Eastern Conference semi-final series to a sixth game.

Golden State and New York now must win on the road on Friday to give themselves a chance to win their respective series on Sunday. Only 13&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;teams have rallied from 3-1 down to win a series. The Warriors did it against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2016 Western Conference finals -- then a Cleveland Cavaliers team led by LeBron James did the same against them in the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Finals. "Coming into this game, we just wanted to win one, give ourselves a chance, knowing that we have a big game six down in LA and we obviously need that one to stay alive," Warriors star Stephen Curry told broadcaster TNT.

Curry scored 27 points to lead six Warriors players in double figures. Andrew Wiggins scored 25 points and Draymond Green delivered a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. "All the way up and down the roster there were contributions," Curry said.

The Lakers are unbeaten at home this post-season, but they could find themselves without Davis, who departed in the fourth quarter after taking an inadvertent elbow to the head from Golden State's Kevon Looney.

A rattled Davis, who scored 23 points and grabbed nine rebounds, headed for the bench and was eventually helped to the locker room, not returning to the game. "He took a shot to the head," Lakers coach Darvin Ham said after the game. "He seems to be doing really good already. That's the status right now."

James led the Lakers with 25 points, but Los Angeles couldn't match the energy of the desperate Warriors. Curry drained a three-pointer at the halftime buzzer to give Golden State a 70-59 halftime lead. Wiggins's putback dunk pushed the Warriors' lead to 18 points early in the third quarter.

They led by double-digits most of the second half, but Austin Reaves drilled a three-pointer that cut the deficit to nine with 5:25 remaining. Curry responded with a step-back jumper and a three-pointer and the Lakers wouldn't get the deficit under 10 again.

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<h2>- Knicks hang on -</h2>

In New York, the Knicks built a 19-point lead in the third quarter then fended off a late Miami charge to cut the deficit in their series to 3-2. "You've got to give them credit, that's a hard team to play," said Brunson, who played all 48 minutes. "But we just came out to fight. "We didn't get discouraged with the 10-point deficit in the first quarter, we just kept fighting," said Brunson, who added nine rebounds and seven assists.

RJ Barrett scored 26 points and Julius Randle shrugged off an early blow to the eye to add 24 for the Knicks, who will try to level the series in Miami on Friday. It was close in the early going, but after Quentin Grimes's three-pointer put the Knicks up 10-8 midway through the first quarter the Heat closed the period on a 16-4 run to lead 24-14.

The Knicks hit back and Randle's step-back three-pointer with 1.3 seconds remaining in the second quarter put the Knicks up 50-47 at halftime. The Knicks poured it on in the third, pushing the lead to 19 with 5:55 left in the period.

Miami, finally getting their three-point shots to fall, cut that to 10 going into the fourth, and Jimmy Butler's pull-up basket, followed by his free throw on the Heat's next possession, had Miami just two down with 2:37 left. New York's Isaiah Hartenstein answered with a dunk and the Knicks held on.

Butler led the Heat with 19 points, seven rebounds and nine assists. Bam Adebayo added 18 points and Duncan Robinson scored 17 off the bench for Miami, who are trying to become just the second eighth-seeded team -- after the 1999 Knicks -- to reach the conference finals.

The Golden State Warriors kept their NBA title defense alive on Wednesday with a 121-106 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, who saw star center Anthony Davis depart after taking a blow to the head.

The Golden State Warriors kept their NBA title defense alive on Wednesday with a 121-106 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, who saw star center Anthony Davis depart after taking a blow to the head. The Warriors cut the deficit in their Western Conference semi-final series to 3-2. The New York Knicks also stayed alive as Jalen Brunson scored 38 points in a 112-103 victory over the Miami Heat at Madison Square Garden that pushed their Eastern Conference semi-final series to a sixth game. Golden State and New York now must win on the road on Friday to give themselves a chance to win their respective series on Sunday. Only 13 NBA teams have rallied from 3-1 down to win a series. The Warriors did it against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2016 Western Conference finals -- then a Cleveland Cavaliers team led by LeBron James did the same against them in the NBA Finals. "Coming into this game, we just wanted to win one, give ourselves a chance, knowing that we have a big game six down in LA and we obviously need that one to stay alive," Warriors star Stephen Curry told broadcaster TNT. Curry scored 27 points to lead six Warriors players in double figures. Andrew Wiggins scored 25 points and Draymond Green delivered a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. "All the way up and down the roster there were contributions," Curry said. The Lakers are unbeaten at home this post-season, but they could find themselves without Davis, who departed in the fourth quarter after taking an inadvertent elbow to the head from Golden State's Kevon Looney. A rattled Davis, who scored 23 points and grabbed nine rebounds, headed for the bench and was eventually helped to the locker room, not returning to the game. "He took a shot to the head," Lakers coach Darvin Ham said after the game. "He seems to be doing really good already. That's the status right now." James led the Lakers with 25 points, but Los Angeles couldn't match the energy of the desperate Warriors. Curry drained a three-pointer at the halftime buzzer to give Golden State a 70-59 halftime lead. Wiggins's putback dunk pushed the Warriors' lead to 18 points early in the third quarter. They led by double-digits most of the second half, but Austin Reaves drilled a three-pointer that cut the deficit to nine with 5:25 remaining. Curry responded with a step-back jumper and a three-pointer and the Lakers wouldn't get the deficit under 10 again. Also Read: NBA: Joel Embiid shines as Philadelphia 76ers sink Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets rout Phoenix Suns - Knicks hang on - In New York, the Knicks built a 19-point lead in the third quarter then fended off a late Miami charge to cut the deficit in their series to 3-2. "You've got to give them credit, that's a hard team to play," said Brunson, who played all 48 minutes. "But we just came out to fight. "We didn't get discouraged with the 10-point deficit in the first quarter, we just kept fighting," said Brunson, who added nine rebounds and seven assists. RJ Barrett scored 26 points and Julius Randle shrugged off an early blow to the eye to add 24 for the Knicks, who will try to level the series in Miami on Friday. It was close in the early going, but after Quentin Grimes's three-pointer put the Knicks up 10-8 midway through the first quarter the Heat closed the period on a 16-4 run to lead 24-14. The Knicks hit back and Randle's step-back three-pointer with 1.3 seconds remaining in the second quarter put the Knicks up 50-47 at halftime. The Knicks poured it on in the third, pushing the lead to 19 with 5:55 left in the period. Miami, finally getting their three-point shots to fall, cut that to 10 going into the fourth, and Jimmy Butler's pull-up basket, followed by his free throw on the Heat's next possession, had Miami just two down with 2:37 left. New York's Isaiah Hartenstein answered with a dunk and the Knicks held on. Butler led the Heat with 19 points, seven rebounds and nine assists. Bam Adebayo added 18 points and Duncan Robinson scored 17 off the bench for Miami, who are trying to become just the second eighth-seeded team -- after the 1999 Knicks -- to reach the conference finals.

NBA: Golden State Warriors edge past LA Lakers, New York Knicks hold off Miami Heat

The Philadelphia 76ers moved to within one win of a series victory over the Boston Celtics in the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;playoffs on Tuesday as the Denver Nuggets thrashed the Phoenix Suns to edge closer to a place in the conference finals.

A towering performance in Boston from&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid helped the Sixers power to a 115-103 victory over the Celtics to stun the home fans into silence. The result gives the Sixers a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series, meaning they will advance to the Eastern Conference finals with a win in game six back in Philadelphia on Thursday.

In the Western Conference, the top-seeded Nuggets are also in the driving seat against Phoenix after pummeling the Suns 118-102 in Denver. Denver star Nikola Jokic finished with a 29-point triple-double for a win that leaves the Nuggets 3-2 up in the series, with game six in Arizona on Thursday.

The Sixers will head into their clash with Boston brimming with confidence after an assured game-five display. Embiid led the scoring in a superbly balanced Sixers offensive performance, with five players finishing in double figures.

Tyrese Maxey tormented the Celtics with 30&nbsp;points, including six three-pointers, while point guard James Harden was a constant thorn in the side of the Celtics, finishing with 17 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds.

<h2>- 'Magician' Harden -</h2>

"I thought Joel did a great job of shooting when he needed to shoot and passing when he needed to pass," Sixers coach Doc Rivers said. "Our composure overall was good. You know they're going to make shots, they're going to make runs. That team is tough, and you've got to breathe through it. I thought our guys did that."

Rivers reserved special praise for the contribution of Harden. "I thought James was a magician tonight. He called a perfect game. He was aggressive early on, when he needed to be aggressive. And then he got everybody else involved."

Boston coach Joe Mazzulla was left ruing what he described as his team's worst performance of the postseason. "That was the first game of the playoffs where we didn't play well," Mazzulla said.&nbsp; "We can't lose perspective because the players have played some really good basketball. But that was our first really really bad game of the playoffs.&nbsp;

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"Doesn't come at necessarily the best time, but we just need to shift perspective and get ready for the next game."

&nbsp;Boston never recovered after the Sixers pulled away to lead by 14 points in the second quarter.

Although the Celtics closed the deficit to nine at half-time they were unable to apply sustained pressure.

The Sixers always found a way of responding to keep them at arm's length throughout the second half, with Philadelphia leading by double digits for almost the entirety of the third and fourth quarters. Boston's scoring was led by a 36-point display from Jayson Tatum while Jaylen Brown finished with 24 points.

<h2>- Jokic triple -</h2>

In Denver, the Nuggets took control early on with a 35-point first quarter before Phoenix roared back to outscore the home side 25-17 in the second quarter. Phoenix took a brief lead in the final minutes of the first half but Denver hit back to lead 52-49 at the break.

The Nuggets then roared out of the blocks in the opening minutes of the second half, outscoring Phoenix 21-6 to open up a 73-55 lead. Denver outscored Phoenix 39-25 in the third quarter and led by as much as 24 points in the final frame.

Phoenix coach Monty Williams pulled his starters from the floor long before the end as Denver celebrated a crucial win. Jokic finished with 29 points, 13 rebounds and 12 assists to lead Denver's scorers, while Michael Porter Jr. had 19 points including five three-pointers.

Devin Booker led the Suns with 28 points, while Kevin Durant finished with 26. Nuggets head coach Michael Malone said an improved defensive display had laid the foundation for his team's emphatic win.

"We didn't play any defense in the two games we lost in Phoenix," Malone said. "When we're not running, and we're not defending, we’re going nowhere.&nbsp; "And that's what we'll have to do in game six if we're going to close this series out."

Suns coach Williams said his team's challenge wilted in the lop-sided third quarter. "It was like nothing we've put on the floor this year from our standards," Williams said. "We stood still and didn't move them around enough. I felt we were somewhat stagnant.&nbsp; "We've got to meet the challenge with the physicality."&nbsp;

The Philadelphia 76ers moved to within one win of a series victory over the Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs on Tuesday as the Denver Nuggets thrashed the Phoenix Suns to edge closer to a place in the conference finals.

The Philadelphia 76ers moved to within one win of a series victory over the Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs on Tuesday as the Denver Nuggets thrashed the Phoenix Suns to edge closer to a place in the conference finals. A towering performance in Boston from NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid helped the Sixers power to a 115-103 victory over the Celtics to stun the home fans into silence. The result gives the Sixers a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series, meaning they will advance to the Eastern Conference finals with a win in game six back in Philadelphia on Thursday. In the Western Conference, the top-seeded Nuggets are also in the driving seat against Phoenix after pummeling the Suns 118-102 in Denver. Denver star Nikola Jokic finished with a 29-point triple-double for a win that leaves the Nuggets 3-2 up in the series, with game six in Arizona on Thursday. The Sixers will head into their clash with Boston brimming with confidence after an assured game-five display. Embiid led the scoring in a superbly balanced Sixers offensive performance, with five players finishing in double figures. Tyrese Maxey tormented the Celtics with 30 points, including six three-pointers, while point guard James Harden was a constant thorn in the side of the Celtics, finishing with 17 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds. - 'Magician' Harden - "I thought Joel did a great job of shooting when he needed to shoot and passing when he needed to pass," Sixers coach Doc Rivers said. "Our composure overall was good. You know they're going to make shots, they're going to make runs. That team is tough, and you've got to breathe through it. I thought our guys did that." Rivers reserved special praise for the contribution of Harden. "I thought James was a magician tonight. He called a perfect game. He was aggressive early on, when he needed to be aggressive. And then he got everybody else involved." Boston coach Joe Mazzulla was left ruing what he described as his team's worst performance of the postseason. "That was the first game of the playoffs where we didn't play well," Mazzulla said. "We can't lose perspective because the players have played some really good basketball. But that was our first really really bad game of the playoffs. Also Read: NBA: Unheralded Lonnie Walker sparks LA Lakers rally as Golden State Warriors wobble "Doesn't come at necessarily the best time, but we just need to shift perspective and get ready for the next game." Boston never recovered after the Sixers pulled away to lead by 14 points in the second quarter. Although the Celtics closed the deficit to nine at half-time they were unable to apply sustained pressure. The Sixers always found a way of responding to keep them at arm's length throughout the second half, with Philadelphia leading by double digits for almost the entirety of the third and fourth quarters. Boston's scoring was led by a 36-point display from Jayson Tatum while Jaylen Brown finished with 24 points. - Jokic triple - In Denver, the Nuggets took control early on with a 35-point first quarter before Phoenix roared back to outscore the home side 25-17 in the second quarter. Phoenix took a brief lead in the final minutes of the first half but Denver hit back to lead 52-49 at the break. The Nuggets then roared out of the blocks in the opening minutes of the second half, outscoring Phoenix 21-6 to open up a 73-55 lead. Denver outscored Phoenix 39-25 in the third quarter and led by as much as 24 points in the final frame. Phoenix coach Monty Williams pulled his starters from the floor long before the end as Denver celebrated a crucial win. Jokic finished with 29 points, 13 rebounds and 12 assists to lead Denver's scorers, while Michael Porter Jr. had 19 points including five three-pointers. Devin Booker led the Suns with 28 points, while Kevin Durant finished with 26. Nuggets head coach Michael Malone said an improved defensive display had laid the foundation for his team's emphatic win. "We didn't play any defense in the two games we lost in Phoenix," Malone said. "When we're not running, and we're not defending, we’re going nowhere. "And that's what we'll have to do in game six if we're going to close this series out." Suns coach Williams said his team's challenge wilted in the lop-sided third quarter. "It was like nothing we've put on the floor this year from our standards," Williams said. "We stood still and didn't move them around enough. I felt we were somewhat stagnant. "We've got to meet the challenge with the physicality."

NBA: Joel Embiid shines as Philadelphia 76ers sink Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets rout Phoenix Suns

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic has escaped suspension after his off-court tussle with Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia, the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;announced in a statement on Monday. Jokic has been fined $25,000 for making "improper contact with a spectactor" during the Nuggets' game-four defeat to the Suns in Phoenix on Sunday in their Western Conference playoff series.

Jokic clashed with Ishbia as he attempted to grab a loose ball from the Suns owner in the second quarter of Sunday's game.&nbsp; As the ball flew back into the crowd, Jokic's elbow appeared to knock Ishbia backwards.

Jokic, who scored a career-high 53 points in the loss, later defended his actions and said he was only responding because Ishbia made contact with him first. Ishbia had sought to damp down the controversy earlier Monday by saying he did not want to see the two-time&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Most Valuable Player hit with a suspension.

"Great win for the Suns last night in an amazing series so far! That should be and is the only story," Ishbia wrote on Twitter on Monday. "Suspending or fining anyone over last night's incident would not be right.&nbsp; "I have a lot of respect for Jokic and don't want to see anything like that. Excited for game 5! Go Suns!"

The Suns and top-seeded Nuggets are level at 2-2 in the best-of-seven series, with game five set for Denver on Tuesday.

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic has escaped suspension after his off-court tussle with Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia, the NBA announced in a statement on Monday.

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic has escaped suspension after his off-court tussle with Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia, the NBA announced in a statement on Monday. Jokic has been fined $25,000 for making "improper contact with a spectactor" during the Nuggets' game-four defeat to the Suns in Phoenix on Sunday in their Western Conference playoff series. Jokic clashed with Ishbia as he attempted to grab a loose ball from the Suns owner in the second quarter of Sunday's game. As the ball flew back into the crowd, Jokic's elbow appeared to knock Ishbia backwards. Jokic, who scored a career-high 53 points in the loss, later defended his actions and said he was only responding because Ishbia made contact with him first. Ishbia had sought to damp down the controversy earlier Monday by saying he did not want to see the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player hit with a suspension. "Great win for the Suns last night in an amazing series so far! That should be and is the only story," Ishbia wrote on Twitter on Monday. "Suspending or fining anyone over last night's incident would not be right. "I have a lot of respect for Jokic and don't want to see anything like that. Excited for game 5! Go Suns!" The Suns and top-seeded Nuggets are level at 2-2 in the best-of-seven series, with game five set for Denver on Tuesday.

NBA: Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic escapes ban after clash with Phoenix Suns owner

Finnish forward Lauri Markkanen of the Utah Jazz was named the NBA's 2023 Most Improved Player on Monday after boosting his scoring average by nearly 11 points a game.

The 25-year-old Finnish forward earned his first All-Star selection this season and finished with career highs of 25.6 points and 1.9 assists plus 8.6 rebounds a game.

Markkanen, who boosted his scoring average by an NBA-best 10.87 points a game this season, also had career-best shooting averages of 49.9% from the floor and 87.5% from the free throw line for the Jazz.

"It feels amazing," Markkanen told NBA telecaster TNT from Helsinki, where he is fulfilling Finland military service requirements. "It's a huge privilege to be in this position."

The 7-footer (2.13m), whose parents were both pro basketball players, was selected seventh overall by Minnesota in the 2017 NBA Draft and played for Chicago and Cleveland before being traded to Utah last September in the deal that sent Donovan Mitchell to the Cavaliers.

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"Just being in the right place at the right time," Markkanen said of his campaign.

"I really wasn't the isolation player this year. I always give credit to guys finding me when I was open. I just tried to show up every night and be consistent.

"I really tried to learn and step into that leadership role in the locker room. I'm still working on that."

When it came to the military, Markkanen said he had plenty of others who wanted to play him one-on-one, but none yet who outranked him.

"Days are pretty long but it has been pretty fun," he said. "Made a lot of new friends. We have to go through it together."

He's the first European player to capture the award since Greek star Giannis Antetokounmpo of Milwaukee in 2017 and the first Jazz player ever to win the award.

Other finalists for the award were New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson from the United States and Canadian guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

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Finnish forward Lauri Markkanen of the Utah Jazz was named the NBA's 2023 Most Improved Player on Monday after boosting his scoring average by nearly 11 points a game.

Finnish forward Lauri Markkanen of the Utah Jazz was named the NBA's 2023 Most Improved Player on Monday after boosting his scoring average by nearly 11 points a game. The 25-year-old Finnish forward earned his first All-Star selection this season and finished with career highs of 25.6 points and 1.9 assists plus 8.6 rebounds a game. Markkanen, who boosted his scoring average by an NBA-best 10.87 points a game this season, also had career-best shooting averages of 49.9% from the floor and 87.5% from the free throw line for the Jazz. "It feels amazing," Markkanen told NBA telecaster TNT from Helsinki, where he is fulfilling Finland military service requirements. "It's a huge privilege to be in this position." The 7-footer (2.13m), whose parents were both pro basketball players, was selected seventh overall by Minnesota in the 2017 NBA Draft and played for Chicago and Cleveland before being traded to Utah last September in the deal that sent Donovan Mitchell to the Cavaliers. Also Read: NBA Playoffs 2023: Butler 56 as Heat beat Bucks to take 3-1 lead "Just being in the right place at the right time," Markkanen said of his campaign. "I really wasn't the isolation player this year. I always give credit to guys finding me when I was open. I just tried to show up every night and be consistent. "I really tried to learn and step into that leadership role in the locker room. I'm still working on that." When it came to the military, Markkanen said he had plenty of others who wanted to play him one-on-one, but none yet who outranked him. "Days are pretty long but it has been pretty fun," he said. "Made a lot of new friends. We have to go through it together." He's the first European player to capture the award since Greek star Giannis Antetokounmpo of Milwaukee in 2017 and the first Jazz player ever to win the award. Other finalists for the award were New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson from the United States and Canadian guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen named 2023 Most Improved Player

Xavier Tillman inspired the Memphis Grizzlies to a 103-93 win over the LA Lakers to tie their Western Conference play-off series 1-1. Tillman, 24, scored a play-off career-high 22 points and grabbed 13 rebounds as Memphis overcame the absence of injured Ja Morant.

NBA: Memphis Grizzlies level series with LA Lakers in game two

Two teams were disqualified from the ongoing&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;Basketball&nbsp;Association season on Monday after suspicions of match-fixing, with Yao Ming bemoaning a "sorrowful weekend".&nbsp;

The Shanghai Sharks overtook the Jiangsu Dragons in the last two minutes of a CBA playoff game on Friday after the Dragons lost possession of the ball multiple times.

The Sharks -- where CBA president and NBA all-star Yao began his professional career -- won the game 108-104, advancing to the quarter-finals.

The match sparked fury among&nbsp;basketball&nbsp;fans&nbsp;on&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;social media and allegations of match-fixing. The CBA said on Saturday that it would investigate the game.

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The CBA did not use the phrase "match-fixing" on Monday and instead accused them of "passive playing" during two recent games involving the teams, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

In addition to being disqualified from this season, both teams had their budgets slashed by five million yuan ($730,000).

Their head coaches and general managers have been slapped with suspensions of three to five years, CCTV said.

"Both clubs have a long history... and both teams have produced milestone figures," Yao said in video footage published by the state-run China News Service.

"The more we talk about it, the more pain we feel," said the 42-year-old, who starred for the Houston Rockets in the NBA between 2002 and 2011.

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Two teams were disqualified from the ongoing Chinese Basketball Association season on Monday after suspicions of match-fixing, with Yao Ming bemoaning a "sorrowful weekend".

Two teams were disqualified from the ongoing Chinese Basketball Association season on Monday after suspicions of match-fixing, with Yao Ming bemoaning a "sorrowful weekend". The Shanghai Sharks overtook the Jiangsu Dragons in the last two minutes of a CBA playoff game on Friday after the Dragons lost possession of the ball multiple times. The Sharks -- where CBA president and NBA all-star Yao began his professional career -- won the game 108-104, advancing to the quarter-finals. The match sparked fury among basketball fans on Chinese social media and allegations of match-fixing. The CBA said on Saturday that it would investigate the game. Also Read: Mikel Arteta confident of Arsenal not losing track in title race after successive draw in Premier League The CBA did not use the phrase "match-fixing" on Monday and instead accused them of "passive playing" during two recent games involving the teams, state broadcaster CCTV reported. In addition to being disqualified from this season, both teams had their budgets slashed by five million yuan ($730,000). Their head coaches and general managers have been slapped with suspensions of three to five years, CCTV said. "Both clubs have a long history... and both teams have produced milestone figures," Yao said in video footage published by the state-run China News Service. "The more we talk about it, the more pain we feel," said the 42-year-old, who starred for the Houston Rockets in the NBA between 2002 and 2011. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese Basketball Association disqualifies two teams over fixing suspicions

Hall of Famer Willis Reed, the beloved former New York Knicks player who won two championships, has died at the age of 80, the National Basketball Retired Players Association said on Tuesday (March 21).

The seven-time All-Star spent his decade-long career with the Knicks, where he famously took the court in Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers despite suffering a leg injury earlier.

He barely played, but the heroic effort whipped the crowd at Madison Square Garden into a frenzy, as he inspired his teammates to a 113-99 victory and vaulted himself into the pantheon of New York City sports greats.

"As we mourn, we will always strive to uphold the standards he left behind," the Knicks said in a statement.

"The unmatched leadership, sacrifice and work ethic that personified him as a champion among champions."

"His is a legacy that will live forever."

Reed became the first to earn regular-season MVP, Finals MVP and All-Star MVP honours in one season in 1970, before leading the Knicks to their second championship in 1973.

Beloved by fans and known affectionately as "the Captain," he retired in 1974, having averaged 18.7 points and 12.9 rebounds per game, and was the first player for the Knicks to have his jersey retired by the team.

He returned to the Knicks to coach the team in the 1977-78 season. He later coached the then-New Jersey Nets.

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Hall of Famer Willis Reed, the beloved former New York Knicks player who won two championships, has died at the age of 80, the National Basketball Retired Players Association said on Tuesday (March 21).

Hall of Famer Willis Reed, the beloved former New York Knicks player who won two championships, has died at the age of 80, the National Basketball Retired Players Association said on Tuesday (March 21). The seven-time All-Star spent his decade-long career with the Knicks, where he famously took the court in Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers despite suffering a leg injury earlier. He barely played, but the heroic effort whipped the crowd at Madison Square Garden into a frenzy, as he inspired his teammates to a 113-99 victory and vaulted himself into the pantheon of New York City sports greats. "As we mourn, we will always strive to uphold the standards he left behind," the Knicks said in a statement. "The unmatched leadership, sacrifice and work ethic that personified him as a champion among champions." "His is a legacy that will live forever." Reed became the first to earn regular-season MVP, Finals MVP and All-Star MVP honours in one season in 1970, before leading the Knicks to their second championship in 1973. Beloved by fans and known affectionately as "the Captain," he retired in 1974, having averaged 18.7 points and 12.9 rebounds per game, and was the first player for the Knicks to have his jersey retired by the team. He returned to the Knicks to coach the team in the 1977-78 season. He later coached the then-New Jersey Nets. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA great 'the Captain' Willis Reed dies at 80

The Los Angeles Lakers superstar, 38, was ruled out of Tuesday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies after he hurt his right foot in the third quarter of Sunday's matchup against the Dallas Mavericks. The basketball star was also heard saying he "heard a pop" after a non-contact fall during the game.

Lebron James reportedly set to miss game time due to foot Injury

LeBron James could face multiple weeks on the sidelines after suffering a foot injury, US media said Monday, dealing a blow to the Los Angeles Lakers hopes of forcing their way into the playoffs. The Lakers confirmed that the NBA's all-time leading scorer would play no part in the game against Memphis on Tuesday due to "right foot soreness".

However, multiple US media reported that the Lakers feared James would be sidelined for multiple weeks after injuring his foot in Sunday's comeback win over the Dallas Mavericks. James played on after landing awkwardly on his foot in the third quarter but was later seen limping away from the venue following the game.

James later said he was determined not to leave the game in a bid to help the recently revitalised Lakers claim victory. "I definitely wasn't going to go to the locker room and not finish the game out tonight," he said after the win. "We'll monitor (the foot) the next couple days, see how it feels and go from there."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/college-basketball-legendary-virginia-coach-terry-holland-dies-at-80-566565">College Basketball: Legendary Virginia coach Terry Holland dies at 80</a>

ESPN reported Monday that James was undergoing further "testing and conversations" to determine the extent of the injury. James, 38, has been in blistering form for the Lakers this season, averaging 29.5 points, 8.4 rebounds and 6.9 assists while also breaking the NBA's all-time scoring record in early February.

After a shaky start to the season, the Lakers have improved markedly in recent weeks following a flurry of roster moves that has strengthened the team's lineup. The Lakers remain 12th in the Western Conference with a 29-32 record, but a congested table means they are well within striking distance of securing a playoff spot.&nbsp;

LeBron James could face multiple weeks on the sidelines after suffering a foot injury, US media said Monday, dealing a blow to the Los Angeles Lakers hopes of forcing their way into the playoffs.

LeBron James could face multiple weeks on the sidelines after suffering a foot injury, US media said Monday, dealing a blow to the Los Angeles Lakers hopes of forcing their way into the playoffs. The Lakers confirmed that the NBA's all-time leading scorer would play no part in the game against Memphis on Tuesday due to "right foot soreness". However, multiple US media reported that the Lakers feared James would be sidelined for multiple weeks after injuring his foot in Sunday's comeback win over the Dallas Mavericks. James played on after landing awkwardly on his foot in the third quarter but was later seen limping away from the venue following the game. James later said he was determined not to leave the game in a bid to help the recently revitalised Lakers claim victory. "I definitely wasn't going to go to the locker room and not finish the game out tonight," he said after the win. "We'll monitor (the foot) the next couple days, see how it feels and go from there." Also Read: College Basketball: Legendary Virginia coach Terry Holland dies at 80 ESPN reported Monday that James was undergoing further "testing and conversations" to determine the extent of the injury. James, 38, has been in blistering form for the Lakers this season, averaging 29.5 points, 8.4 rebounds and 6.9 assists while also breaking the NBA's all-time scoring record in early February. After a shaky start to the season, the Lakers have improved markedly in recent weeks following a flurry of roster moves that has strengthened the team's lineup. The Lakers remain 12th in the Western Conference with a 29-32 record, but a congested table means they are well within striking distance of securing a playoff spot.

LA Lakers suffer massive blow as injured LeBron James facing 'weeks' on sidelines: Reports

Basketball great Michael Jordan will make a record-breaking $10 million donation to the Make-A-Wish foundation to mark his 60th birthday later this week, a statement said on Wednesday. Jordan's donation to Make-A-Wish -- which aims to fulfill the wishes of children aged between 2-18 battling critical illness - is the largest in the Arizona-based nonprofit's 43-year history.

The six-time NBA championship winner has had a long association with the nonprofit, first working with the organization in 1989. A statement from Make-a-Wish said the 59-year-old billionaire hoped his gesture would inspire others to donate to the foundation. "For the past 34 years, it's been an honor to partner with Make-A-Wish and help bring a smile and happiness to so many kids," Jordan said in a news release. "Witnessing their strength and resilience during such a tough time in their lives has truly been an inspiration.&nbsp; "I can't think of a better birthday gift than seeing others join me in supporting Make-A-Wish so that every child can experience the magic of having their wish come true."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-michigan-state-player-keith-appling-pleads-guilty-in-murder-case-and-firearm-charge-562131">Ex-Michigan State player Keith Appling pleads guilty in murder case and firearm charge</a>

Make-A-Wish said Jordan had granted "hundreds" of wishes to children all over the world since 1989. His multimillion-dollar donation will be used to create an endowment to help grant wishes in the future for children and young people with serious illnesses. "Everyone knows about Michael's legacy on the basketball court, but it's what he has consistently done off the court when no one's watching that makes him a true legend for wish families and the wider Make-A-Wish community," said Make-A-Wish America chief executive Leslie Motter.

Jordan is regarded by many as the greatest basketball player in history, with six NBA Finals MVP awards in addition to his championship rings.&nbsp; He also won five season MVP awards and was a 14-time All-Star during a career that spanned 1984 to 2003.

Basketball great Michael Jordan will make a record-breaking $10 million donation to the Make-A-Wish foundation to mark his 60th birthday later this week, a statement said on Wednesday.

Basketball great Michael Jordan will make a record-breaking $10 million donation to the Make-A-Wish foundation to mark his 60th birthday later this week, a statement said on Wednesday. Jordan's donation to Make-A-Wish -- which aims to fulfill the wishes of children aged between 2-18 battling critical illness - is the largest in the Arizona-based nonprofit's 43-year history. The six-time NBA championship winner has had a long association with the nonprofit, first working with the organization in 1989. A statement from Make-a-Wish said the 59-year-old billionaire hoped his gesture would inspire others to donate to the foundation. "For the past 34 years, it's been an honor to partner with Make-A-Wish and help bring a smile and happiness to so many kids," Jordan said in a news release. "Witnessing their strength and resilience during such a tough time in their lives has truly been an inspiration. "I can't think of a better birthday gift than seeing others join me in supporting Make-A-Wish so that every child can experience the magic of having their wish come true." Also Read: Ex-Michigan State player Keith Appling pleads guilty in murder case and firearm charge Make-A-Wish said Jordan had granted "hundreds" of wishes to children all over the world since 1989. His multimillion-dollar donation will be used to create an endowment to help grant wishes in the future for children and young people with serious illnesses. "Everyone knows about Michael's legacy on the basketball court, but it's what he has consistently done off the court when no one's watching that makes him a true legend for wish families and the wider Make-A-Wish community," said Make-A-Wish America chief executive Leslie Motter. Jordan is regarded by many as the greatest basketball player in history, with six NBA Finals MVP awards in addition to his championship rings. He also won five season MVP awards and was a 14-time All-Star during a career that spanned 1984 to 2003.

Basketball great Michael Jordan to make record donation of $10 million to nonprofit

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_4CF16080-6281-F548-FD8B-5060EF45E6E5@published">Ex-Michigan State player Keith Appling pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and a firearm charge, on Monday (February 13), with regard to a fatal shooting in Detroit two years back. Appling, who represented the Orlando Magic in 2016, pleaded guilty in a Michigan court to one count each of second-degree murder and weapons felony firearm possession. The plea deal was announced right before his trial was about to kick off on Monday. It is to be noted that in 2021, the 31-year-old Appling had been framed for the murder of 66-year-old Clyde Edmonds.

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_D0A21A8E-5332-1EBB-E125-506E3E5B0D7A@published">As per the&nbsp;prosecutors, Appling’s plea agreement comprises a sentence of 18 to 40 years in the Michigan Department of Corrections. In addition, it has two years of consecutive sentencing for the possession of a felony firearm. Thus, the axe is set to fall on Appling as the former NBA player will be sentenced by a Michigan judge on March 3.

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_D0A21A8E-5332-1EBB-E125-506E3E5B0D7A@published">Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kingsley-coman-scores-winner-as-bayern-beat-psg-in-first-leg-of-champions-league-tie-562120">Kingsley Coman scores winner as Bayern beat PSG in first leg of Champions League tie</a>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_679FF5BD-44F3-9552-5C42-506E3E5C1F4B@published">County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said in 2021, "It has been clear that this man has been spiralling downward for some time. Many of those that tried to intervene with this defendant was hoping that he would get on the right track and stay there. It is always tragic when one with so much promise, talent and possibility is alleged to have committed the most serious of crimes."

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_674293FB-E4CF-8EA4-0589-506E3E5D6D69@published">In May 2021, police officers arrived at a house in Detroit after being informed of a shooting where they found the victim on the front lawn. The body was that of Edmonds and he was rushed to a nearby hospital, after being shot on multiple occasions, before being later pronounced dead.

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_B2772215-D7C7-2E02-2F69-506E3E5EA9F7@published">It is believed that things went out of hand between Appling and Edwards. The duo were engaged in a heated argument&nbsp;over a handgun after which Appling shot Edmonds multiple times and left the scene with the help of his girlfriend&nbsp;Natalie Bannister. His girlfriend had even lied to the investigating officers and was sentenced to prison for 18 months after pleading guilty to lying to a peace officer.&nbsp;

Ex-Michigan State player Keith Appling pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and a firearm charge, on Monday (February 13), with regard to a fatal shooting in Detroit two years back.

Ex-Michigan State player Keith Appling pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and a firearm charge, on Monday (February 13), with regard to a fatal shooting in Detroit two years back. Appling, who represented the Orlando Magic in 2016, pleaded guilty in a Michigan court to one count each of second-degree murder and weapons felony firearm possession. The plea deal was announced right before his trial was about to kick off on Monday. It is to be noted that in 2021, the 31-year-old Appling had been framed for the murder of 66-year-old Clyde Edmonds. As per the prosecutors, Appling’s plea agreement comprises a sentence of 18 to 40 years in the Michigan Department of Corrections. In addition, it has two years of consecutive sentencing for the possession of a felony firearm. Thus, the axe is set to fall on Appling as the former NBA player will be sentenced by a Michigan judge on March 3. Also Read: Kingsley Coman scores winner as Bayern beat PSG in first leg of Champions League tie County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said in 2021, "It has been clear that this man has been spiralling downward for some time. Many of those that tried to intervene with this defendant was hoping that he would get on the right track and stay there. It is always tragic when one with so much promise, talent and possibility is alleged to have committed the most serious of crimes." In May 2021, police officers arrived at a house in Detroit after being informed of a shooting where they found the victim on the front lawn. The body was that of Edmonds and he was rushed to a nearby hospital, after being shot on multiple occasions, before being later pronounced dead. It is believed that things went out of hand between Appling and Edwards. The duo were engaged in a heated argument over a handgun after which Appling shot Edmonds multiple times and left the scene with the help of his girlfriend Natalie Bannister. His girlfriend had even lied to the investigating officers and was sentenced to prison for 18 months after pleading guilty to lying to a peace officer.

Ex-Michigan State player Keith Appling pleads guilty in murder case and firearm charge

Basketball superstar LeBron James scripted history on Tuesday as he became the highest-scoring player in the history of NBA, breaking a 39-year record, previously held by the legendary&nbsp;Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.&nbsp;

Currently, in his 20th season in the NBA, LeBron&nbsp;passed Abdul-Jabbar's longstanding total of 38,387 points after nailing a 21-foot shot late in the third quarter, giving him 38,388 points and prompting wild celebrations in a packed Crypto.com Arena.

For a long time, basketball fans believed that&nbsp;Abdul-Jabbar's record would never be beaten. However, James, at the young age of 38 managed to achieve the unthinkable.&nbsp;

To make the occasion special,&nbsp;Abdul-Jabbar, who was sitting courtside was one of the first persons to congratulate James after achieving the historic feat.&nbsp;

"To be able to be in the presence of a legend and great as Kareem it means so much to me," said James as the play was halted to commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime event.

"Everybody that's ever been part of this run with me these last 20 years, I just want to say I thank you so much because I wouldn't be me without all your help, all your passion and all your sacrifices to help me get to this point."&nbsp;

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EVERY ANGLE of the bucket that made LeBron James the NBA's all-time leading scorer 📽️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ScoringKing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ScoringKing</a> <a href="https://t.co/BVUr9x78BH">pic.twitter.com/BVUr9x78BH</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1623194203386675200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Breaking the nearly four-decade-old record that Abdul-Jabbar seized from Wilt Chamberlain on April 5, 1984 has strengthened James' claim as the greatest to have ever played the sport.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-tickets-price-skyrockets-as-lakers-forward-lebron-james-chases-history-559133">Read more:&nbsp;NBA: Tickets price skyrockets as Lakers forward LeBron James chases history</a>

Former LA Lakers player Magic Johnson took to Twitter to congratulate James and said the sport will never see another player of his class.&nbsp;

"This historic moment is so special because we will never see another LeBron James. He’s always been a pass-first leader whose ability to make his teammates better is one-of-a-kind; which makes his breaking the record even more incredible!"

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This historic moment is so special because we will never see another LeBron James. He’s always been a pass-first leader whose ability to make his teammates better is one-of-a-kind; which makes his breaking the record even more incredible!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/MagicJohnson/status/1623190575976685568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Even after achieving the momentous feat, the scary part is that James is showing no signs of slowing down. In the 2022-23 season, he is averaging more than 30 points per game and recently made his 19th All-Star game.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Basketball superstar LeBron James scripted history on Tuesday as he became the highest-scoring player in the history of NBA, breaking a 39-year record, previously held by the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Basketball superstar LeBron James scripted history on Tuesday as he became the highest-scoring player in the history of NBA, breaking a 39-year record, previously held by the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Currently, in his 20th season in the NBA, LeBron passed Abdul-Jabbar's longstanding total of 38,387 points after nailing a 21-foot shot late in the third quarter, giving him 38,388 points and prompting wild celebrations in a packed Crypto.com Arena. For a long time, basketball fans believed that Abdul-Jabbar's record would never be beaten. However, James, at the young age of 38 managed to achieve the unthinkable. To make the occasion special, Abdul-Jabbar, who was sitting courtside was one of the first persons to congratulate James after achieving the historic feat. "To be able to be in the presence of a legend and great as Kareem it means so much to me," said James as the play was halted to commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime event. "Everybody that's ever been part of this run with me these last 20 years, I just want to say I thank you so much because I wouldn't be me without all your help, all your passion and all your sacrifices to help me get to this point." EVERY ANGLE of the bucket that made LeBron James the NBA's all-time leading scorer 📽️#ScoringKing pic.twitter.com/BVUr9x78BH — NBA (@NBA) February 8, 2023 × Breaking the nearly four-decade-old record that Abdul-Jabbar seized from Wilt Chamberlain on April 5, 1984 has strengthened James' claim as the greatest to have ever played the sport. Read more: NBA: Tickets price skyrockets as Lakers forward LeBron James chases history Former LA Lakers player Magic Johnson took to Twitter to congratulate James and said the sport will never see another player of his class. "This historic moment is so special because we will never see another LeBron James. He’s always been a pass-first leader whose ability to make his teammates better is one-of-a-kind; which makes his breaking the record even more incredible!" This historic moment is so special because we will never see another LeBron James. He’s always been a pass-first leader whose ability to make his teammates better is one-of-a-kind; which makes his breaking the record even more incredible! — Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 8, 2023 × Even after achieving the momentous feat, the scary part is that James is showing no signs of slowing down. In the 2022-23 season, he is averaging more than 30 points per game and recently made his 19th All-Star game. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Record alert! LeBron James breaks NBA all-time scoring record

Kyrie Irving was welcomed to the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks as the Texas team and the Brooklyn Nets confirmed their blockbuster trade deal. Days after the controversial guard requested a move before NBA trade deadline, both clubs tweeted confirmation of the transfer following team physicals.

NBA: Kyrie Irving Joins Dallas Mavericks

A game-worn jersey of basketball superstar LeBron James sold for $3.7 million at auction Friday, five times more than the previous record for one of his shirts.

The sale comes with interest even higher than usual in the 38-year-old LA Lakers icon as he nears the NBA's all-time scoring record.

Sotheby's in New York sold the jersey, which James wore while playing for the Miami Heat in their 2013 NBA finals game seven victory against the San Antonio Spurs.

It smashed the previous record of $630,000 for a James All-Star jersey worn in 2020.

Game-worn sports memorabilia is big business. Michael Jordan's 1998 NBA Finals jersey, which sold for $10.1 million in September 2022, is currently the most valuable such item.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketball-legend-michael-jordans-last-dance-jersey-sells-for-whopping-101-million-516661">Read more:&nbsp;Basketball legend Michael Jordan's 'Last Dance' jersey sells for whopping $10.1 million</a>

Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" jersey sold for $9.3 million at Sotheby's in London last year.

James needs just 178 points to eclipse Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's tally of 38,387 points, one of the most coveted and longstanding records in basketball.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-maradonas-hand-of-god-shirt-headlines-qatar-exhibit-during-world-cup-521514">Read more:&nbsp;Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt headlines Qatar exhibit during World Cup</a>

Sotheby's also sold a dress worn by the late Princess Diana for $604,800 Friday.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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A game-worn jersey of basketball superstar LeBron James sold for $3.7 million at auction Friday, five times more than the previous record for one of his shirts. The sale comes with interest even higher than usual in the 38-year-old LA Lakers icon as he nears the NBA's all-time scoring record.

A game-worn jersey of basketball superstar LeBron James sold for $3.7 million at auction Friday, five times more than the previous record for one of his shirts. The sale comes with interest even higher than usual in the 38-year-old LA Lakers icon as he nears the NBA's all-time scoring record. Sotheby's in New York sold the jersey, which James wore while playing for the Miami Heat in their 2013 NBA finals game seven victory against the San Antonio Spurs. It smashed the previous record of $630,000 for a James All-Star jersey worn in 2020. Game-worn sports memorabilia is big business. Michael Jordan's 1998 NBA Finals jersey, which sold for $10.1 million in September 2022, is currently the most valuable such item. Read more: Basketball legend Michael Jordan's 'Last Dance' jersey sells for whopping $10.1 million Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" jersey sold for $9.3 million at Sotheby's in London last year. James needs just 178 points to eclipse Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's tally of 38,387 points, one of the most coveted and longstanding records in basketball. Read more: Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt headlines Qatar exhibit during World Cup Sotheby's also sold a dress worn by the late Princess Diana for $604,800 Friday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

LeBron James' 2013 Miami jersey sold for $3.7 million in an auction

According to the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, Darius Miles was one of two suspects detained and charged with capital murder after Jamea Jonae Harris, 23, was shot and killed Sunday along the Strip in Tuscaloosa. Miles, a former basketball player for Alabama, is being detained without bond at the local jail. Michael Lynn Davis is another suspect who has been detained without bond. It was discovered that the shooting took place in the 400 block of Grace Street, just off University Boulevard. According to the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, the shooting seemed to be the result of a brief disagreement between the victims and the accused.

The director of the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, Capt. Jack Kennedy, would not reveal who police think fired the shot on Sunday, but he did indicate that both suspects are facing charges since their actions resulted in Harris' death. Harris was a passenger in the car, but the driver told police that the car had been shot at and that he had retaliated in self-defense. The car spotted a UA police car and pulled over near the Walk of Champions to ask for assistance. Officers were then sent there around 1:45 on Sunday am.

<h2>Who was Darius Miles?</h2>

From the Washington, DC region, Miles is 21 years old. He had been a member of the Alabama basketball team for three seasons and was in his third year as a student at UA. He attended IMG Academy before enrolling at UA, and the 247Sports Composite rated him as a three-star talent right out of high school. Over offers from Georgetown, Seton Hall, Rhode Island and Rutgers, he chose Alabama.

<h2>Darius Miles' career&nbsp;</h2>

UA made the announcement that Miles is no longer a part of the Crimson Tide basketball team in a statement on Sunday. The statement extended deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the victim from incident. It added that they were made aware of the recent charge against student-athlete Darius Miles, and he is no longer a member of the Alabama men’s basketball team. UA also said that athletics, in conjunction with the University, is fully cooperating with this investigation.

Miles had been there for the LSU game on Saturday at Coleman Coliseum. He was dressed casually and was with the squad. Prior to the game, Miles' season had already been declared over due to an ankle injury. Only six games this season saw him play. Since the beginning of the season, he has been suffering from an ankle issue. After the Mississippi State match, Miles also missed some time due to "personal circumstances," according to coach Nate Oats. This season, Miles played an average of 6.5 minutes per game but did not make any starts. He last made an appearance on December 20 against Jackson State. He participated in 30 games last season and made two starts, playing 17.2 minutes per game on average.

There must be a unique situation for a crime to qualify as capital murder. Because the victim in this event was shot while inside a car, it is regarded as capital murder. According to Alabama Criminal Code Title 13A-5-40, it is a capital felony since it is "murder committed by or through the use of a lethal weapon while the victim is in a vehicle." The death sentence or life in prison without parole are both possible in the state of Alabama if someone is found guilty of capital murder. Despite the possibility of such, defendants frequently agree to plea in exchange for a lighter punishment. Prosecutors may agree to accept a guilty plea for a less serious charge.&nbsp;

According to the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, Darius Miles was one of two suspects detained and charged with capital murder after Jamea Jonae Harris, 23, was shot and killed Sunday along the Strip in Tuscaloosa.

According to the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, Darius Miles was one of two suspects detained and charged with capital murder after Jamea Jonae Harris, 23, was shot and killed Sunday along the Strip in Tuscaloosa. Miles, a former basketball player for Alabama, is being detained without bond at the local jail. Michael Lynn Davis is another suspect who has been detained without bond. It was discovered that the shooting took place in the 400 block of Grace Street, just off University Boulevard. According to the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, the shooting seemed to be the result of a brief disagreement between the victims and the accused. The director of the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, Capt. Jack Kennedy, would not reveal who police think fired the shot on Sunday, but he did indicate that both suspects are facing charges since their actions resulted in Harris' death. Harris was a passenger in the car, but the driver told police that the car had been shot at and that he had retaliated in self-defense. The car spotted a UA police car and pulled over near the Walk of Champions to ask for assistance. Officers were then sent there around 1:45 on Sunday am. Who was Darius Miles? From the Washington, DC region, Miles is 21 years old. He had been a member of the Alabama basketball team for three seasons and was in his third year as a student at UA. He attended IMG Academy before enrolling at UA, and the 247Sports Composite rated him as a three-star talent right out of high school. Over offers from Georgetown, Seton Hall, Rhode Island and Rutgers, he chose Alabama. Darius Miles' career UA made the announcement that Miles is no longer a part of the Crimson Tide basketball team in a statement on Sunday. The statement extended deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the victim from incident. It added that they were made aware of the recent charge against student-athlete Darius Miles, and he is no longer a member of the Alabama men’s basketball team. UA also said that athletics, in conjunction with the University, is fully cooperating with this investigation. Miles had been there for the LSU game on Saturday at Coleman Coliseum. He was dressed casually and was with the squad. Prior to the game, Miles' season had already been declared over due to an ankle injury. Only six games this season saw him play. Since the beginning of the season, he has been suffering from an ankle issue. After the Mississippi State match, Miles also missed some time due to "personal circumstances," according to coach Nate Oats. This season, Miles played an average of 6.5 minutes per game but did not make any starts. He last made an appearance on December 20 against Jackson State. He participated in 30 games last season and made two starts, playing 17.2 minutes per game on average. There must be a unique situation for a crime to qualify as capital murder. Because the victim in this event was shot while inside a car, it is regarded as capital murder. According to Alabama Criminal Code Title 13A-5-40, it is a capital felony since it is "murder committed by or through the use of a lethal weapon while the victim is in a vehicle." The death sentence or life in prison without parole are both possible in the state of Alabama if someone is found guilty of capital murder. Despite the possibility of such, defendants frequently agree to plea in exchange for a lighter punishment. Prosecutors may agree to accept a guilty plea for a less serious charge.

Who is Darius Miles? All about Ex-Alabama basketball player who is charged for capital murder

The NBA is renaming its annual regular-season Most Valuable Player award after legendary star Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;-- who claimed the honor five times with the Chicago Bulls. The league unveiled the newly designed Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;Trophy on Tuesday, along with five other reimagined trophies named after league pioneers that will now be presented to the National Basketball Association's end-of-season award winners.&nbsp;Jordan, a six-time NBA champion, won five MVPs in his 15-season career, tied for second-most behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar who won six.

The NBA's Social Justice Champion award is named for Abdul-Jabbar. Other renamed awards announced Tuesday are the Hakeem Olajuwon Trophy for the Defensive Player of the Year, the Wilt Chamberlain Trophy for Rookie of the Year, the John Havlicek Trophy for Sixth Man of the Year and the George Mikan Trophy for Most Improved Player. The NBA also announced a new award for Clutch Player of the Year, named after Jerry West, who played in nine NBA Finals and remains the only player to win Finals MVP while losing the series.

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The new Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;Trophy was created with input from the NBA icon, who requested that it not be a likeness of him. It features a player breaking out of a rock to reach for a crystal basketball, and includes elements that reflect&nbsp;Jordan's career, including references to his jersey number 23 and his six NBA titles.

Previously, the league's MVP trophy was named after former commissioner Maurice Podoloff, whose name will now be attached to a new trophy honoring the team that posts the best regular-season record.

The NBA is renaming its annual regular-season Most Valuable Player award after legendary star Michael Jordan -- who claimed the honor five times with the Chicago Bulls.

The NBA is renaming its annual regular-season Most Valuable Player award after legendary star Michael Jordan -- who claimed the honor five times with the Chicago Bulls. The league unveiled the newly designed Michael Jordan Trophy on Tuesday, along with five other reimagined trophies named after league pioneers that will now be presented to the National Basketball Association's end-of-season award winners. Jordan, a six-time NBA champion, won five MVPs in his 15-season career, tied for second-most behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar who won six. The NBA's Social Justice Champion award is named for Abdul-Jabbar. Other renamed awards announced Tuesday are the Hakeem Olajuwon Trophy for the Defensive Player of the Year, the Wilt Chamberlain Trophy for Rookie of the Year, the John Havlicek Trophy for Sixth Man of the Year and the George Mikan Trophy for Most Improved Player. The NBA also announced a new award for Clutch Player of the Year, named after Jerry West, who played in nine NBA Finals and remains the only player to win Finals MVP while losing the series. Also read: French Rugby chief sentenced to two-year suspended term on corruption charges The new Michael Jordan Trophy was created with input from the NBA icon, who requested that it not be a likeness of him. It features a player breaking out of a rock to reach for a crystal basketball, and includes elements that reflect Jordan's career, including references to his jersey number 23 and his six NBA titles. Previously, the league's MVP trophy was named after former commissioner Maurice Podoloff, whose name will now be attached to a new trophy honoring the team that posts the best regular-season record.

NBA renames MVP trophy after Chicago Bulls great Michael Jordan

American basketball star Brittney Griner returned to the United States after being released by Russia as part of a prisoner swap. The 32-year-old, who was arrested by the Russian authorities in Moscow for possession of cannabis oil, was released in exchange for the 55-year-old Russian arms dealer called Viktor Bout. Bout was sentenced to 25 years in prison by the US authorities.

AFP reported the Griner was spotted on the runway after her flight landed in San Antonio, Texas. It also claimed that WNBA star will undergo medical checks at a military facility in Texas.

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The prisoner exchange between the two authorities took place in Abu Dhabi with footage released by the Russian state media showing the basketball star without her dreadlocks. Bout and Griner crossed each other on the airport tarmac and were taken to their respective flights.

US President Joe Biden earlier said that she was in "good spirits" after suffering "needless trauma."

Biden met with Griner’s wife – Cherelle Griner – when the prison exchange was announced.

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"I'm just standing here, overwhelmed with emotions," Cherelle Griner said. "Today my family is whole, but as you all are aware there's so many other families who are not whole."

While the news of Griner’s release was greeted with celebrations, several people expressed disappointment at former US Marine Paul Whelan not being part of the deal.

Whelan was detained by the Russian authorities on accusations of espionage.

"I don't understand why I'm still sitting here," Whelan told CNN in a phone call.

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American basketball star Brittney Griner returned to the United States after being released by Russia as part of a prisoner swap. The 32-year-old, who was arrested by the Russian authorities in Moscow for possession of cannabis oil, was released in exchange for the 55-year-old Russian arms dealer called Viktor Bout.

American basketball star Brittney Griner returned to the United States after being released by Russia as part of a prisoner swap. The 32-year-old, who was arrested by the Russian authorities in Moscow for possession of cannabis oil, was released in exchange for the 55-year-old Russian arms dealer called Viktor Bout. Bout was sentenced to 25 years in prison by the US authorities. AFP reported the Griner was spotted on the runway after her flight landed in San Antonio, Texas. It also claimed that WNBA star will undergo medical checks at a military facility in Texas. Also read | Russian lawmakers hail Bout-Griner swap as Putin’s ‘win’, capitulation by US The prisoner exchange between the two authorities took place in Abu Dhabi with footage released by the Russian state media showing the basketball star without her dreadlocks. Bout and Griner crossed each other on the airport tarmac and were taken to their respective flights. US President Joe Biden earlier said that she was in "good spirits" after suffering "needless trauma." Biden met with Griner’s wife – Cherelle Griner – when the prison exchange was announced. Also read | One dead in massive shopping centre fire in Moscow, arson suspected "I'm just standing here, overwhelmed with emotions," Cherelle Griner said. "Today my family is whole, but as you all are aware there's so many other families who are not whole." While the news of Griner’s release was greeted with celebrations, several people expressed disappointment at former US Marine Paul Whelan not being part of the deal. Whelan was detained by the Russian authorities on accusations of espionage. "I don't understand why I'm still sitting here," Whelan told CNN in a phone call.

Basketball star Brittney Griner arrives home in US after Russia prisoner swap

The&nbsp;Golden&nbsp;State&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;were&nbsp;sued&nbsp;on Monday by an&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;customer who accused the reigning National Basketball Association&nbsp;champions of fraudulently promoting the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange.

Elliott Lam, a Canadian citizen and Hong Kong resident, filed his proposed class-action lawsuit in San Francisco federal court on behalf of "thousands, if not millions" of people outside the United&nbsp;States who traded on&nbsp;FTX's platform. Other defendants include Sam Bankman-Fried, who founded&nbsp;FTX, and Caroline Ellison, who led Bankman-Fried's trading firm Alameda Research.

The&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;last December had named&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;its official cryptocurrency platform, in what it called a first-of-its-kind cryptocurrency partnership in professional sports. Lam accused the defendants of falsely representing that&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;was a "viable and safe way to invest in crypto," in order to deceive people into investing there.

The lawsuit seeks damages under California consumer laws for customers outside the United&nbsp;States with&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;yield-bearing accounts. Lam said he lost $750,000 in his account. A&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;spokeswoman said the team does not discuss pending legal matters. Lam's lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for additional comment.

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The&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;are also a defendant in a Nov. 16 lawsuit in Miami by U.S.-based&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;customers seeking damages from celebrity endorsers like&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;guard Stephen Curry, quarterback Tom Brady, comedian Larry David and tennis player Naomi Osaka.

Last week, the&nbsp;Warriors&nbsp;paused promotions related to&nbsp;FTX, according to published reports. Another&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;team, the Miami Heat, on Nov. 11 said it would drop the&nbsp;FTX&nbsp;name from its arena and seek a new naming sponsor. FTX&nbsp;filed for Chapter 11 protection on the same day. The Heat is not a defendant in the Miami lawsuit.

The Golden State Warriors were sued on Monday by an FTX customer who accused the reigning National Basketball Association champions of fraudulently promoting the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange.

The Golden State Warriors were sued on Monday by an FTX customer who accused the reigning National Basketball Association champions of fraudulently promoting the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange. Elliott Lam, a Canadian citizen and Hong Kong resident, filed his proposed class-action lawsuit in San Francisco federal court on behalf of "thousands, if not millions" of people outside the United States who traded on FTX's platform. Other defendants include Sam Bankman-Fried, who founded FTX, and Caroline Ellison, who led Bankman-Fried's trading firm Alameda Research. The Warriors last December had named FTX its official cryptocurrency platform, in what it called a first-of-its-kind cryptocurrency partnership in professional sports. Lam accused the defendants of falsely representing that FTX was a "viable and safe way to invest in crypto," in order to deceive people into investing there. The lawsuit seeks damages under California consumer laws for customers outside the United States with FTX yield-bearing accounts. Lam said he lost $750,000 in his account. A Warriors spokeswoman said the team does not discuss pending legal matters. Lam's lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for additional comment. Also read: FIFA World Cup: US journalist ‘detained’ at Qatar stadium for sporting rainbow shirt The Warriors are also a defendant in a Nov. 16 lawsuit in Miami by U.S.-based FTX customers seeking damages from celebrity endorsers like Warriors guard Stephen Curry, quarterback Tom Brady, comedian Larry David and tennis player Naomi Osaka. Last week, the Warriors paused promotions related to FTX, according to published reports. Another NBA team, the Miami Heat, on Nov. 11 said it would drop the FTX name from its arena and seek a new naming sponsor. FTX filed for Chapter 11 protection on the same day. The Heat is not a defendant in the Miami lawsuit.

NBA champion Golden State Warriors in trouble, sued over FTX collapse

US&nbsp;basketball star Brittney Griner, facing nine years behind bars in Russia after being convicted on drug charges, has been transferred to a penal colony about 500 km (300 miles) southeast of Moscow, her lawyers said on Thursday.&nbsp;Griner was sentenced in August following her arrest at a Moscow airport in February with vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage. She was moved from a detention centre near Moscow on Nov. 4 to be taken to an undisclosed prison location.

Her legal team, confirming an earlier Reuters story, said Griner had been taken to Female Penal Colony IK-2 in the town of Yavas in the Mordovia region.

"We can confirm that Brittney began serving her sentence at IK-2 in Mordovia. We visited her early this week," lawyers Maria Blagovolina and Alexander Boikov said in a statement.

"Brittney is doing as well as could be expected and trying to stay strong as she adapts to a new environment," they continued.

Mordovia is the region where another American, Paul Whelan, is serving a 16-year sentence in a different penal settlement after being convicted of espionage charges that he denies.

Asked about Griner's case before the statement from the lawyers was issued, a US&nbsp;State Department spokesperson said: "We are aware of reports of her location and in frequent contact with Griner's legal team.

"However, the Russian Federation has still failed to provide any official notification for such a move of a US&nbsp;citizen, which we strongly protest."

Inmates of Russian penal colonies are required to work long hours for meagre pay on tedious manual tasks such as sewing. Former prisoners and human rights groups describe conditions as harsh and unhygienic, with little access to medical care.

Russia and the United States have discussed swapping Griner and Whelan, a former US&nbsp;Marine, for a Russian arms dealer jailed in the United States, but no deal has materialized amid heightened tensions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

At her trial, Griner - who played basketball for a Russian team in the US&nbsp;off-season - said she had used cannabis for relief from sports injuries but had not meant to break the law. She told the court she made an honest mistake by packing the cartridges in her luggage.

US basketball star Brittney Griner, facing nine years behind bars in Russia after being convicted on drug charges, has been transferred to a penal colony about 500 km (300 miles) southeast of Moscow, her lawyers said on Thursday.

US basketball star Brittney Griner, facing nine years behind bars in Russia after being convicted on drug charges, has been transferred to a penal colony about 500 km (300 miles) southeast of Moscow, her lawyers said on Thursday. Griner was sentenced in August following her arrest at a Moscow airport in February with vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage. She was moved from a detention centre near Moscow on Nov. 4 to be taken to an undisclosed prison location. Her legal team, confirming an earlier Reuters story, said Griner had been taken to Female Penal Colony IK-2 in the town of Yavas in the Mordovia region. "We can confirm that Brittney began serving her sentence at IK-2 in Mordovia. We visited her early this week," lawyers Maria Blagovolina and Alexander Boikov said in a statement. "Brittney is doing as well as could be expected and trying to stay strong as she adapts to a new environment," they continued. Mordovia is the region where another American, Paul Whelan, is serving a 16-year sentence in a different penal settlement after being convicted of espionage charges that he denies. Asked about Griner's case before the statement from the lawyers was issued, a US State Department spokesperson said: "We are aware of reports of her location and in frequent contact with Griner's legal team. "However, the Russian Federation has still failed to provide any official notification for such a move of a US citizen, which we strongly protest." Inmates of Russian penal colonies are required to work long hours for meagre pay on tedious manual tasks such as sewing. Former prisoners and human rights groups describe conditions as harsh and unhygienic, with little access to medical care. Russia and the United States have discussed swapping Griner and Whelan, a former US Marine, for a Russian arms dealer jailed in the United States, but no deal has materialized amid heightened tensions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. At her trial, Griner - who played basketball for a Russian team in the US off-season - said she had used cannabis for relief from sports injuries but had not meant to break the law. She told the court she made an honest mistake by packing the cartridges in her luggage.

Brittney Griner sent to all-women Russian penal colony, confirms her lawyers

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said he met with Kyrie Irving earlier this week and that he did not believe the Brooklyn Nets guard was anti-Semitic, Yahoo Sports reported on Thursday. Irving was heavily criticized for promoting a film that the seven-time All-Star has since said contained "false anti-Semitic statements".

The Nets suspended him for at least five games after he "refused to unequivocally say he has no anti-Semitic beliefs". Irving later apologized to those "hurt from the hateful remarks made in the documentary".

"Based on what he said directly, to me (I) have no doubt that he's not anti-Semitic but I think there's a process that he's going to now need to go through," Silver said in Washington on Thursday, according to the website.

Silver, who is Jewish, told the New York Times he had a "direct and candid conversation" with Irving. "He's someone I've known for a decade, and I've never heard an anti-Semitic word from him or, frankly, hate directed at any group," he said. Silver added: "Whether or not he is anti-Semitic is not relevant to the damage caused by the posting of hateful content."

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In addition to the suspension, Brooklyn outlined a list of six requirements he had to fulfill before rejoining the team. They included apologizing, condemning the film, making a $500,000 donation to anti-hate causes and completing anti-Semitism training.

Irving's former team mate LeBron James said that while he did not believe in sharing "hurtful information," Irving should be allowed to return to the court following his apology. "Help him learn - but he should be playing," James tweeted on Thursday. "What he's asked to do to get back on the floor I think is excessive IMO. He's not the person that's being portrayed of him."

If he serves a five-game suspension, Irving would be available to play Nov. 13 against the Lakers in Los Angeles.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said he met with Kyrie Irving earlier this week and that he did not believe the Brooklyn Nets guard was anti-Semitic, Yahoo Sports reported on Thursday.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said he met with Kyrie Irving earlier this week and that he did not believe the Brooklyn Nets guard was anti-Semitic, Yahoo Sports reported on Thursday. Irving was heavily criticized for promoting a film that the seven-time All-Star has since said contained "false anti-Semitic statements". The Nets suspended him for at least five games after he "refused to unequivocally say he has no anti-Semitic beliefs". Irving later apologized to those "hurt from the hateful remarks made in the documentary". "Based on what he said directly, to me (I) have no doubt that he's not anti-Semitic but I think there's a process that he's going to now need to go through," Silver said in Washington on Thursday, according to the website. Silver, who is Jewish, told the New York Times he had a "direct and candid conversation" with Irving. "He's someone I've known for a decade, and I've never heard an anti-Semitic word from him or, frankly, hate directed at any group," he said. Silver added: "Whether or not he is anti-Semitic is not relevant to the damage caused by the posting of hateful content." ALSO READ | Women's Rugby World Cup: Dominant England prepare to face New Zealand in sold-out final In addition to the suspension, Brooklyn outlined a list of six requirements he had to fulfill before rejoining the team. They included apologizing, condemning the film, making a $500,000 donation to anti-hate causes and completing anti-Semitism training. Irving's former team mate LeBron James said that while he did not believe in sharing "hurtful information," Irving should be allowed to return to the court following his apology. "Help him learn - but he should be playing," James tweeted on Thursday. "What he's asked to do to get back on the floor I think is excessive IMO. He's not the person that's being portrayed of him." If he serves a five-game suspension, Irving would be available to play Nov. 13 against the Lakers in Los Angeles.

Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving not anti-Semitic, says NBA Commissioner Adam Silver

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he expected Russian President Vladimir Putin will be willing to talk more seriously with Washington about a potential prisoner swap to secure the release of U.S. basketball star Brittney&nbsp;Griner.

"My hope is, now that the election is over, that Mr. Putin will be able to discuss with us and be willing to talk more seriously about prisoner exchange," Biden told reporters at a press conference. "My intention is to get her home," he added.

Biden's Democratic Party performed better than expected in the Nov. 8 midterms, with the Republicans appearing to fall short of the sweeping "red wave" victory they had sought. The Biden administration in late July proposed a prisoner swap with Russia to secure&nbsp;Griner's release, as well as that of former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan who is also jailed there, but said Moscow had yet to respond positively.

Griner, 32, a star of the Women's National Basketball Association's Phoenix Mercury, was arrested on Feb. 17. Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent souring of ties between Washington and Moscow have complicated the talks.

The two-time Olympic gold medallist was arrested at a Moscow airport when vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is banned in Russia, were found in her luggage. She was sentenced on Aug. 4 to nine years in a penal colony on charges of possessing and smuggling drugs. She had pleaded guilty, but said she had made an "honest mistake" and had not meant to break the law.

Last week, Russian authorities transferred&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;from a detention center outside Moscow and she is now on her way to an undisclosed penal colony, her legal team said on Wednesday. The move drew anger from the Biden administration.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;was being transferred to a "remote penal colony" and that the United States expects Russian authorities to provide its embassy officials with access to&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;and other Americans detained in Russia.

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"NEVER-ENDING NIGHTMARE"

The WNBA, in a statement, said it was "crushed" by the move, calling it a "scary, seemingly never-ending nightmare," adding "the lack of clarity and transparency in the process compounds the pain." Neither her current location nor her final destination are known, her legal team said and added that in line with Russian procedures, her attorneys and the U.S. Embassy should be notified upon her arrival, but that it would take up to two weeks for that to happen.

Russia did not notify the United States that&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;was being moved, according to a senior State Department official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Reuters has requested comment from Russia's federal prison service on where&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;is being taken and where she is now. Transfers to penal colonies can be time-consuming as groups of prisoners are assembled and moved to different locations across the world's largest country.

Russia has refused to comment on the state of negotiations, saying such diplomacy should not be conducted in public. "Despite a lack of good-faith negotiation by the Russians, the U.S. government has continued to follow up on that offer and propose alternative potential ways forward with the Russians through all available channels," White House spokeswoman Karinne Jean-Pierre said.

Discussions over the proposed swap have "not been a static process," the senior State Department official added. Griner's lawyers have not yet said if they will attempt a further appeal against her conviction after a Russian court rejected an attempted appeal on Oct. 25.

Inmates in Russian penal colonies face a harsh regime of tedious manual work, poor hygiene and lack of adequate access to medical care. "Our primary concern continues to be BG's health and well-being,"&nbsp;Griner's agent, Lindsay Colas, said in a separate statement, referring to the player by her initials. "As we work through this very difficult phase of not knowing exactly where BG is or how she is doing, we ask for the public's support in continuing to write letters and express their love and care for her," Colas said.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he expected Russian President Vladimir Putin will be willing to talk more seriously with Washington about a potential prisoner swap to secure the release of U.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he expected Russian President Vladimir Putin will be willing to talk more seriously with Washington about a potential prisoner swap to secure the release of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner. "My hope is, now that the election is over, that Mr. Putin will be able to discuss with us and be willing to talk more seriously about prisoner exchange," Biden told reporters at a press conference. "My intention is to get her home," he added. Biden's Democratic Party performed better than expected in the Nov. 8 midterms, with the Republicans appearing to fall short of the sweeping "red wave" victory they had sought. The Biden administration in late July proposed a prisoner swap with Russia to secure Griner's release, as well as that of former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan who is also jailed there, but said Moscow had yet to respond positively. Griner, 32, a star of the Women's National Basketball Association's Phoenix Mercury, was arrested on Feb. 17. Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent souring of ties between Washington and Moscow have complicated the talks. The two-time Olympic gold medallist was arrested at a Moscow airport when vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is banned in Russia, were found in her luggage. She was sentenced on Aug. 4 to nine years in a penal colony on charges of possessing and smuggling drugs. She had pleaded guilty, but said she had made an "honest mistake" and had not meant to break the law. Last week, Russian authorities transferred Griner from a detention center outside Moscow and she is now on her way to an undisclosed penal colony, her legal team said on Wednesday. The move drew anger from the Biden administration. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said Griner was being transferred to a "remote penal colony" and that the United States expects Russian authorities to provide its embassy officials with access to Griner and other Americans detained in Russia. ALSO READ | Basketball star Brittney Griner on her way to penal colony in Russia, reveal lawyers "NEVER-ENDING NIGHTMARE" The WNBA, in a statement, said it was "crushed" by the move, calling it a "scary, seemingly never-ending nightmare," adding "the lack of clarity and transparency in the process compounds the pain." Neither her current location nor her final destination are known, her legal team said and added that in line with Russian procedures, her attorneys and the U.S. Embassy should be notified upon her arrival, but that it would take up to two weeks for that to happen. Russia did not notify the United States that Griner was being moved, according to a senior State Department official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Reuters has requested comment from Russia's federal prison service on where Griner is being taken and where she is now. Transfers to penal colonies can be time-consuming as groups of prisoners are assembled and moved to different locations across the world's largest country. Russia has refused to comment on the state of negotiations, saying such diplomacy should not be conducted in public. "Despite a lack of good-faith negotiation by the Russians, the U.S. government has continued to follow up on that offer and propose alternative potential ways forward with the Russians through all available channels," White House spokeswoman Karinne Jean-Pierre said. Discussions over the proposed swap have "not been a static process," the senior State Department official added. Griner's lawyers have not yet said if they will attempt a further appeal against her conviction after a Russian court rejected an attempted appeal on Oct. 25. Inmates in Russian penal colonies face a harsh regime of tedious manual work, poor hygiene and lack of adequate access to medical care. "Our primary concern continues to be BG's health and well-being," Griner's agent, Lindsay Colas, said in a separate statement, referring to the player by her initials. "As we work through this very difficult phase of not knowing exactly where BG is or how she is doing, we ask for the public's support in continuing to write letters and express their love and care for her," Colas said.

US President Joe Biden expects Russia to get more serious about prisoner swap for basketballer Brittney Griner

U.S. basketball star Brittney&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;was transferred last week from a detention centre outside the Russian capital Moscow and is on her way to a penal colony, her legal team said on Wednesday. The two-time Olympic gold medalist was arrested on Feb. 17, a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, at a Moscow airport with vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is banned in Russia. She was sentenced on Aug. 4 to nine years in a penal colony on charges of possessing and smuggling drugs.

Griner&nbsp;had pleaded guilty but said she had made an "honest mistake" and had not meant to break the law. Neither&nbsp;Griner's exact whereabouts nor her final destination were known, the legal team said in a statement, adding that in line with Russian procedures, her attorneys as well as the U.S. Embassy should be notified upon her arrival at her destination.

The notification would take up to two weeks to be received. The White House said U.S. President Joe Biden has directed his administration to "prevail on her Russian captors to improve her treatment and the conditions she may be forced to endure in a penal colony." It did not give any details about&nbsp;Griner's whereabouts. The Biden administration had in late July proposed a deal for a prisoner swap with Russia to secure her release, as well as that of former U.S. marine Paul Whelan, but Moscow is yet to respond positively to the offer.

"Despite a lack of good faith negotiation by the Russians, the U.S. government has continued to follow up on that offer and propose alternative potential ways forward with the Russians through all available channels," White House spokeswoman Karinne Jean-Pierre said. The souring of ties between Russia and the West has complicated the talks to secure&nbsp;Griner's release. "Our primary concern continues to be BG’s health and well-being,"&nbsp;Griner's agent Lindsay Colas said in a separate statement, referring to the player by her initials. "As we work through this very difficult phase of not knowing exactly where BG is or how she is doing, we ask for the public’s support in continuing to write letters and express their love and care for her," Colas said.

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She said&nbsp;Griner's team remained in close contact with the U.S. government as well as the Richardson Center, named after former U.S. diplomat Bill Richardson, who has privately worked to secure the release of American detainees abroad. Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan, in an earlier statement, described&nbsp;Griner's conditions as "intolerable" and the trial she had to go through as "another sham judicial proceeding."

Whelan was convicted by Russia of spying and jailed for 16 years in 2020. He denies espionage and has said he was set up in a sting operation. Washington has demanded his release.

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner was transferred last week from a detention centre outside the Russian capital Moscow and is on her way to a penal colony, her legal team said on Wednesday.

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner was transferred last week from a detention centre outside the Russian capital Moscow and is on her way to a penal colony, her legal team said on Wednesday. The two-time Olympic gold medalist was arrested on Feb. 17, a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, at a Moscow airport with vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is banned in Russia. She was sentenced on Aug. 4 to nine years in a penal colony on charges of possessing and smuggling drugs. Griner had pleaded guilty but said she had made an "honest mistake" and had not meant to break the law. Neither Griner's exact whereabouts nor her final destination were known, the legal team said in a statement, adding that in line with Russian procedures, her attorneys as well as the U.S. Embassy should be notified upon her arrival at her destination. The notification would take up to two weeks to be received. The White House said U.S. President Joe Biden has directed his administration to "prevail on her Russian captors to improve her treatment and the conditions she may be forced to endure in a penal colony." It did not give any details about Griner's whereabouts. The Biden administration had in late July proposed a deal for a prisoner swap with Russia to secure her release, as well as that of former U.S. marine Paul Whelan, but Moscow is yet to respond positively to the offer. "Despite a lack of good faith negotiation by the Russians, the U.S. government has continued to follow up on that offer and propose alternative potential ways forward with the Russians through all available channels," White House spokeswoman Karinne Jean-Pierre said. The souring of ties between Russia and the West has complicated the talks to secure Griner's release. "Our primary concern continues to be BG’s health and well-being," Griner's agent Lindsay Colas said in a separate statement, referring to the player by her initials. "As we work through this very difficult phase of not knowing exactly where BG is or how she is doing, we ask for the public’s support in continuing to write letters and express their love and care for her," Colas said. ALSO READ | Kazakhstan beat hosts Britain in Billie Jean King Cup finals, Australia go past Slovakia She said Griner's team remained in close contact with the U.S. government as well as the Richardson Center, named after former U.S. diplomat Bill Richardson, who has privately worked to secure the release of American detainees abroad. Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan, in an earlier statement, described Griner's conditions as "intolerable" and the trial she had to go through as "another sham judicial proceeding." Whelan was convicted by Russia of spying and jailed for 16 years in 2020. He denies espionage and has said he was set up in a sting operation. Washington has demanded his release.

Basketball star Brittney Griner on her way to penal colony in Russia, reveal lawyers

The&nbsp;Brooklyn&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;star guard Kyrie Irving for at least five games, saying that despite holding a second press conference to address a controversial documentary he had still refused to disavow&nbsp;anti-Semitism. Irving has faced heavy criticism since posting a link to the 2018 film on Twitter last week and initially defended doing so during a contentious post-game news conference over the weekend.

The seven-time All Star has since deleted the Twitter post and in a press conference earlier on Thursday said he meant no harm. Irving took "responsibility" for posting the link but did not specifically denounce the film or its message, which civil rights activists have called&nbsp;anti-Semitic. "We were dismayed today, when given an opportunity in a media session, that Kyrie refused to unequivocally say he has no&nbsp;anti-Semitic&nbsp;beliefs, nor acknowledge specific hateful material in the film," the&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;said in a statement announcing his suspension.

The suspension comes at a fraught moment for Jews in the United States, as the FBI warned on Thursday there was a credible threat to synagogues in New Jersey, a state that lies just across the harbor from the New York City borough of&nbsp;Brooklyn, one of the most Jewish places in the world. The controversy follows another generated by Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West, who was&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;by social media platforms last month for posts that online users condemned as&nbsp;anti-Semitic.

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The team said Irving would be&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;until he undergoes a series of unspecified "remedial measures," but no less than five games. The&nbsp;Nets' next game is on Friday night against the Wizards in Washington. If he serves a five-game suspension, Irving would be available to play Nov. 13 against the Lakers in Los Angeles.

Irving issued a joint statement with the&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Anti-Defamation League on Wednesday, saying he opposed all forms of hatred. He and the&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;said they would each donate $500,000 toward organizations that work to eradicate hate. The National Basketball Association and union representing its&nbsp;players have also issued statements condemning hate speech. Neither the&nbsp;players union nor Irving's agent immediately responded to request for comment on Thursday night.

"Kyrie Irving made a reckless decision to post a link to a film containing deeply offensive&nbsp;anti-Semitic&nbsp;material," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in his statement on Thursday. Irving's social media posts are not the first time that he has courted controversy in the NBA. He played in just 29 of the&nbsp;Nets' 82 regular season games for the 2021-22 season after refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine despite a mandate by the city of New York. While not specifically mentioning the issues with Irving, the&nbsp;Nets&nbsp;parted ways with head coach Steve Nash on Tuesday after a disappointing start to their season.

The Brooklyn Nets on Thursday suspended star guard Kyrie Irving for at least five games, saying that despite holding a second press conference to address a controversial documentary he had still refused to disavow anti-Semitism.

The Brooklyn Nets on Thursday suspended star guard Kyrie Irving for at least five games, saying that despite holding a second press conference to address a controversial documentary he had still refused to disavow anti-Semitism. Irving has faced heavy criticism since posting a link to the 2018 film on Twitter last week and initially defended doing so during a contentious post-game news conference over the weekend. The seven-time All Star has since deleted the Twitter post and in a press conference earlier on Thursday said he meant no harm. Irving took "responsibility" for posting the link but did not specifically denounce the film or its message, which civil rights activists have called anti-Semitic. "We were dismayed today, when given an opportunity in a media session, that Kyrie refused to unequivocally say he has no anti-Semitic beliefs, nor acknowledge specific hateful material in the film," the Nets said in a statement announcing his suspension. The suspension comes at a fraught moment for Jews in the United States, as the FBI warned on Thursday there was a credible threat to synagogues in New Jersey, a state that lies just across the harbor from the New York City borough of Brooklyn, one of the most Jewish places in the world. The controversy follows another generated by Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West, who was suspended by social media platforms last month for posts that online users condemned as anti-Semitic. ALSO READ | Barcelona's Pique to retire, will play last home game on Saturday The team said Irving would be suspended until he undergoes a series of unspecified "remedial measures," but no less than five games. The Nets' next game is on Friday night against the Wizards in Washington. If he serves a five-game suspension, Irving would be available to play Nov. 13 against the Lakers in Los Angeles. Irving issued a joint statement with the Nets and the Anti-Defamation League on Wednesday, saying he opposed all forms of hatred. He and the Nets said they would each donate $500,000 toward organizations that work to eradicate hate. The National Basketball Association and union representing its players have also issued statements condemning hate speech. Neither the players union nor Irving's agent immediately responded to request for comment on Thursday night. "Kyrie Irving made a reckless decision to post a link to a film containing deeply offensive anti-Semitic material," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in his statement on Thursday. Irving's social media posts are not the first time that he has courted controversy in the NBA. He played in just 29 of the Nets' 82 regular season games for the 2021-22 season after refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine despite a mandate by the city of New York. While not specifically mentioning the issues with Irving, the Nets parted ways with head coach Steve Nash on Tuesday after a disappointing start to their season.

Brooklyn Nets suspend Kyrie Irving after star guard refuses to disavow anti-Semitism

A Russian court rejected U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner's appeal for a reduced sentence. The American was sent to prison for carrying Cannabis Oil. Neha Khanna tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Russian court rejects Brittney Griner's appeal

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