The National Basketball Association (NBA) has suspended the Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green for stomping on the chest of Sacramento Kings' Domantas Sabonis. The incident happened during Game 2 of NBA Playoffs Round 1 between the Kings and the Warriors.

The decision to suspend Green was announced late on Tuesday by NBA executive vice president Joe Dumars. The league also said that decision to suspend him 'was based in part on Green’s history of unsportsmanlike acts.' Green will not be a part of the Warriors line-up during the Game 3 against the Kings on Thursday, April 20.

Notably, in 2016 NBA Finals between the Cavaliers and the Warriors, Green was involved in an incident with Cavs' &nbsp;LeBron James during the Game 4. After the tiff, Green was suspended for Game 5, which allowed the Cavs to come back from a 1-3 deficit in the series and eventually win the Finals.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-warriors-draymond-green-stomps-on-sabonis-chest-gets-ejected-during-game-2-vs-kings-watch-583685">Warriors' Draymond Green stomps on Sabonis' chest, gets ejected during Game 2 vs Kings</a>

Against the Kings, Sabonis, with 7:03 left in the game, was standing near the Warriors' rim to collect the rebound if the ball doesn't go in, which it actually didn't. Sabonis, however, got tangled in the group of the Warriors' defense players and fell on the court holding his ankle after losing balance in the huddle. Green, then seemingly lost balance too and his foot landed on Sabonis' chest.

The Refs adjudged Green's action enough for a flagrant foul two, ejecting him from the game immediately. Green, however, defended his actions, saying, "My leg got grabbed, second time in two nights," he said. "Referees just watch it. I’ve got to land my foot somewhere, and I'm not the most flexible person so it's not stretching that far. I can only step so far and pulling my leg away, so it is what it is," after the game.

As for Sabonis, he went underway X-rays and a medical exam has revealed a 'sternum contusion,' rendering him 'questionable' for Game 3.

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The National Basketball Association (NBA) has suspended the Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green for stomping on the chest of Sacramento Kings' Domantas Sabonis.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has suspended the Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green for stomping on the chest of Sacramento Kings' Domantas Sabonis. The incident happened during Game 2 of NBA Playoffs Round 1 between the Kings and the Warriors. The decision to suspend Green was announced late on Tuesday by NBA executive vice president Joe Dumars. The league also said that decision to suspend him 'was based in part on Green’s history of unsportsmanlike acts.' Green will not be a part of the Warriors line-up during the Game 3 against the Kings on Thursday, April 20. Notably, in 2016 NBA Finals between the Cavaliers and the Warriors, Green was involved in an incident with Cavs' LeBron James during the Game 4. After the tiff, Green was suspended for Game 5, which allowed the Cavs to come back from a 1-3 deficit in the series and eventually win the Finals. Also Watch: Warriors' Draymond Green stomps on Sabonis' chest, gets ejected during Game 2 vs Kings Against the Kings, Sabonis, with 7:03 left in the game, was standing near the Warriors' rim to collect the rebound if the ball doesn't go in, which it actually didn't. Sabonis, however, got tangled in the group of the Warriors' defense players and fell on the court holding his ankle after losing balance in the huddle. Green, then seemingly lost balance too and his foot landed on Sabonis' chest. The Refs adjudged Green's action enough for a flagrant foul two, ejecting him from the game immediately. Green, however, defended his actions, saying, "My leg got grabbed, second time in two nights," he said. "Referees just watch it. I’ve got to land my foot somewhere, and I'm not the most flexible person so it's not stretching that far. I can only step so far and pulling my leg away, so it is what it is," after the game. As for Sabonis, he went underway X-rays and a medical exam has revealed a 'sternum contusion,' rendering him 'questionable' for Game 3. 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: Warriors' Draymond Green suspended one game for stomping on chest of Kings' Sabonis

Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green got ejected during Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 for stomping on the chest of Sacramento Kings' Domantas Sabonis.

The incident happened in mid fourth quarter with the game hanging in the balance. The video of that play shows that the Kings' Malik Monk charged down the court and took an aim at the rim.

Sabonis was standing near the Warriors' rim to collect the rebound if the ball doesn't go in, which it actually didn't. Sabonis, however, got tangled in the group of the Warriors' defense players and fell on the court holding his ankle after losing balance in the huddle. Green, then seemingly lost balance too and his foot landed on Sabonis' chest. Have a look at the video here:&nbsp;

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nasty work by draymond green 
<a href="https://t.co/gaZ8ourODt">pic.twitter.com/gaZ8ourODt</a>
— SK⚡️ (@raptalksk) <a href="https://twitter.com/raptalksk/status/1648180927611142144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Warriors' veteran was ejected for the play and left the court amid the boos from the crowd. Green also got into the face of crowd before leaving the court. Have a look here:

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Draymond Green stomps on Domantas Sabonis and then acts like this with NBA commissioner Adam Silver in attendance. <a href="https://t.co/To9igwXUBA">pic.twitter.com/To9igwXUBA</a>
— Jason Anderson (@JandersonSacBee) <a href="https://twitter.com/JandersonSacBee/status/1648181244595945472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Speaking about the incident after the game, Sabonis told TNT television, "We came out here tonight and everyone fought, we were locked in."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-grizzlies-jaren-jackson-jr-named-defensive-player-of-year-for-second-time-in-a-row-583519">Grizzlies' Jaren Jackson Jr. named Defensive Player of Year for second time in a row</a>

"It's playoff basketball. We're here to fight. Every time we step on the floor we're going to give everything for our team-mates and our franchise," he added.

Green, on the other hand, seemed defiant and said it was just done in a moment and not knowingly. "I've got to land my foot somewhere," Green said after the game. "I can only step so far when I'm pulling my leg away. It is what it is," he added. Listen here:

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Draymond Green: “My leg got grabbed. Second time in two nights.” Said he needed to put his foot somewhere but officials told him he “stomped too hard.” 
 
Full soundbite <a href="https://t.co/nmQj8tP0yC">pic.twitter.com/nmQj8tP0yC</a>
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) <a href="https://twitter.com/anthonyVslater/status/1648192149429825536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In the game, the Sacramento Kings beat the Golden State Warriors to take a 2-0 lead in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs. The game went through ups and downs throughout the four quarters but the Kings eventually held off the Warriors late charge to win 114-106.

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Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green got ejected during Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 for stomping on the chest of Sacramento Kings' Domantas Sabonis. The incident happened in mid fourth quarter with the game hanging in the balance.

Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green got ejected during Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 for stomping on the chest of Sacramento Kings' Domantas Sabonis. The incident happened in mid fourth quarter with the game hanging in the balance. The video of that play shows that the Kings' Malik Monk charged down the court and took an aim at the rim. Sabonis was standing near the Warriors' rim to collect the rebound if the ball doesn't go in, which it actually didn't. Sabonis, however, got tangled in the group of the Warriors' defense players and fell on the court holding his ankle after losing balance in the huddle. Green, then seemingly lost balance too and his foot landed on Sabonis' chest. Have a look at the video here: nasty work by draymond green pic.twitter.com/gaZ8ourODt — SK⚡️ (@raptalksk) April 18, 2023 × The Warriors' veteran was ejected for the play and left the court amid the boos from the crowd. Green also got into the face of crowd before leaving the court. Have a look here: Draymond Green stomps on Domantas Sabonis and then acts like this with NBA commissioner Adam Silver in attendance. pic.twitter.com/To9igwXUBA — Jason Anderson (@JandersonSacBee) April 18, 2023 × Speaking about the incident after the game, Sabonis told TNT television, "We came out here tonight and everyone fought, we were locked in." Also Read: Grizzlies' Jaren Jackson Jr. named Defensive Player of Year for second time in a row "It's playoff basketball. We're here to fight. Every time we step on the floor we're going to give everything for our team-mates and our franchise," he added. Green, on the other hand, seemed defiant and said it was just done in a moment and not knowingly. "I've got to land my foot somewhere," Green said after the game. "I can only step so far when I'm pulling my leg away. It is what it is," he added. Listen here: Draymond Green: “My leg got grabbed. Second time in two nights.” Said he needed to put his foot somewhere but officials told him he “stomped too hard.” Full soundbite pic.twitter.com/nmQj8tP0yC — Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 18, 2023 × In the game, the Sacramento Kings beat the Golden State Warriors to take a 2-0 lead in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs. The game went through ups and downs throughout the four quarters but the Kings eventually held off the Warriors late charge to win 114-106. 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 Playoffs: Warriors' Draymond Green stomps on Sabonis' chest, gets ejected during Game 2 vs Kings - WATCH

The Sacramento Kings, in a thriller, beat defending champions Golden State Warriors 114-106 to take a 2-0 lead in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs.&nbsp;

The Warriors started well and took a lead of six points by the end of first quarter, only to let the advantage slip by the half-time with the box scored reading 58-52 in the Kings' favour. The Kings scored 41 points in the second quarter while the Warriors could manage only 29.

The game went back and forth in the third quarter with the Kings scoring two points more than the Warriors' 23. The box score, entering into the chaotic fourth quarter, read 83-75 in the Kings' favour.&nbsp;

The Warriors felt like on a mission as they erased their 12-point deficit to bring the game at 93-93 by the mid of fourth quarter. The Kings, however, were more determined as they matched up the Warriors' intensity and skills.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-grizzlies-jaren-jackson-jr-named-defensive-player-of-year-for-second-time-in-a-row-583519">Grizzlies' Jaren Jackson Jr. named Defensive Player of Year for second time in a row</a>

Both the teams scored 31 points in the fourth quarter and the final score read 114-106 in the Kings' favour, giving them the precious advantage in the seven-game series.

The Warriors were ahead of the Kings in field goal percentage, three-point conversion, and free throws but it was 20 turnovers compared 14 by the Kings that left them hanging.

For the Kings, De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis scored 24 points each while Malik Monk managed 18. For the Warriors, Stephen Curry drained 28 points, Andrew Wiggins dropped 22 and Klay Thompson managed 21 points but all for nothing good.

"We didn't play well enough to win a playoff game on the road," said Warriors coach Steve Kerr. "With that said, it was a tie game with a few minutes left. We know we have to play better, and we will play better. These guys are champions. The way our guys fought showed what they're made of," he added further.

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The Sacramento Kings, in a thriller, beat defending champions Golden State Warriors 114-106 to take a 2-0 lead in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs. The Warriors started well and took a lead of six points by the end of first quarter, only to let the advantage slip by the half-time with the box scored reading 58-52 in the Kings' favour.

The Sacramento Kings, in a thriller, beat defending champions Golden State Warriors 114-106 to take a 2-0 lead in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs. The Warriors started well and took a lead of six points by the end of first quarter, only to let the advantage slip by the half-time with the box scored reading 58-52 in the Kings' favour. The Kings scored 41 points in the second quarter while the Warriors could manage only 29. The game went back and forth in the third quarter with the Kings scoring two points more than the Warriors' 23. The box score, entering into the chaotic fourth quarter, read 83-75 in the Kings' favour. The Warriors felt like on a mission as they erased their 12-point deficit to bring the game at 93-93 by the mid of fourth quarter. The Kings, however, were more determined as they matched up the Warriors' intensity and skills. Also Read: Grizzlies' Jaren Jackson Jr. named Defensive Player of Year for second time in a row Both the teams scored 31 points in the fourth quarter and the final score read 114-106 in the Kings' favour, giving them the precious advantage in the seven-game series. The Warriors were ahead of the Kings in field goal percentage, three-point conversion, and free throws but it was 20 turnovers compared 14 by the Kings that left them hanging. For the Kings, De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis scored 24 points each while Malik Monk managed 18. For the Warriors, Stephen Curry drained 28 points, Andrew Wiggins dropped 22 and Klay Thompson managed 21 points but all for nothing good. "We didn't play well enough to win a playoff game on the road," said Warriors coach Steve Kerr. "With that said, it was a tie game with a few minutes left. We know we have to play better, and we will play better. These guys are champions. The way our guys fought showed what they're made of," he added further. 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 Playoffs 2023: Sacramento Kings beat Golden State Warriors again to take 2-0 lead in Round 1

Milwaukee superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo and Memphis star guard Ja Morant suffered serious injuries that threatened to disrupt two title contenders on Sunday in NBA playoff series-opening defeats.

The Los Angeles Lakers took advantage of Morant's absence late in the fourth quarter for a late surge that produced a 128-112 victory at Memphis while the top-seeded host Bucks, who lost their Greek star in the first quarter, fell 130-117 to the eighth-seeded Miami Heat.

But injury fears for Antetokounmpo and Morant, two of the NBA's most electrifying stars, were amplified by upset home losses for their clubs in best-of-seven first round openers.

Antetokounmpo averaged 31.1 points and 11.8 rebounds a game this season for an NBA-best 58-24 Bucks squad while Morant averaged 26.2 points for a Grizzlies team that was 51-31.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-sixers-celtics-knicks-advance-with-game-1-win-582873">NBA Playoffs: Sixers, Celtics, Knicks advance with Game 1 win</a>

Morant hurt his already-sore right hand midway into the fourth quarter trying to brace a hard landing to a high fall after contact while driving to the basket.

Morant's taped right hand took the impact. Morant rose and ran off to the locker room, grabbing his sore hand and screaming as he exited after scoring 18 points.

"I'm in a good bit of pain," Morant said after the game, declaring his status was "in jeopardy" for game two on Wednesday. "Feels like it's one thing after another."

Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins said after the game that x-rays on Morant's right hand were negative but he would likely be kept out of workouts, his status "one game at a time."

At Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo went onto the floor in the first quarter after defensive contact on a move to the hoop and suffered a lower back bruise that ended his night with game two in Milwaukee on Wednesday.

"We'll monitor him," said Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer, who added an x-ray came back "clear" on Antetokounmpo.

"We have to wait and see what the doctors say... you've got to take it day by day and see how he's doing and how he feels."

The Heat, among the NBA's worst 3-point shooting teams this season, made&nbsp;15-of-25 from beyond the arc at Milwaukee.

While the Bucks had gone 11-8 in games without Antetokounmpo this season, the Heat led by as many as 15 points with the big man gone.

Miami suffered its own injury setback when guard Tyler Herro suffered a broken right hand diving for a loose ball in the final seconds of the second quarter. He's expected to be out four to six weeks after averaging 20.1 points this season.

Jimmy Butler led Miami with 35 points and 11 assists. Gabe Vincent was 4-of-5 from 3-point range and Kevin Love was 4-of-7 on 3-pointers.

With Antetokounmpo scoring only eight points, Khris Middleton led the Bucks with 33 points.

<h2>Clippers defeat Suns</h2>

Kawhi Leonard scored 13 of his game-high 38 points in the fourth quarter to spark the Los Angeles Clippers to a 115-110 victory at Phoenix in their series opener.

Russell Westbrook had nine points, 10 rebounds, eight assists and three blocked shots, the biggest on Devin Booker in the final seconds to help seal victory.

Kevin Durant had 27 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds but suffered his first loss since joining the Suns from Brooklyn.

Clippers forward Paul George was out with a sprained right knee and is questionable for the playoffs.

Japan's Rui Hachimura came off the Lakers bench to match an NBA record for reserve playoff scoring with 29 points while a closing 30-11 LA run.

"That's probably the best game he has had in his career," Memphis' Desmond Bane said of Hachimura. "Let's see if he can do it again on Wednesday."

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Austin Reaves, making his playoff debut, scored 14 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter for the Lakers after Memphis opened the period with an 11-2 run for a 101-98 lead.

Anthony Davis had 22 points, 12 rebounds and seven blocked shots for the Lakers while LeBron James contributed 21 points, 11 rebounds and five assists and D'Angelo Russell added 19 points and a game-high seven assists.

It was the first time since 1988 the Lakers had four players with 20 or more points in a playoff game.

Jaren Jackson led Memphis with 31 points.

Milwaukee superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo and Memphis star guard Ja Morant suffered serious injuries that threatened to disrupt two title contenders on Sunday in NBA playoff series-opening defeats.

Milwaukee superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo and Memphis star guard Ja Morant suffered serious injuries that threatened to disrupt two title contenders on Sunday in NBA playoff series-opening defeats. The Los Angeles Lakers took advantage of Morant's absence late in the fourth quarter for a late surge that produced a 128-112 victory at Memphis while the top-seeded host Bucks, who lost their Greek star in the first quarter, fell 130-117 to the eighth-seeded Miami Heat. But injury fears for Antetokounmpo and Morant, two of the NBA's most electrifying stars, were amplified by upset home losses for their clubs in best-of-seven first round openers. Antetokounmpo averaged 31.1 points and 11.8 rebounds a game this season for an NBA-best 58-24 Bucks squad while Morant averaged 26.2 points for a Grizzlies team that was 51-31. Also Read: NBA Playoffs: Sixers, Celtics, Knicks advance with Game 1 win Morant hurt his already-sore right hand midway into the fourth quarter trying to brace a hard landing to a high fall after contact while driving to the basket. Morant's taped right hand took the impact. Morant rose and ran off to the locker room, grabbing his sore hand and screaming as he exited after scoring 18 points. "I'm in a good bit of pain," Morant said after the game, declaring his status was "in jeopardy" for game two on Wednesday. "Feels like it's one thing after another." Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins said after the game that x-rays on Morant's right hand were negative but he would likely be kept out of workouts, his status "one game at a time." At Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo went onto the floor in the first quarter after defensive contact on a move to the hoop and suffered a lower back bruise that ended his night with game two in Milwaukee on Wednesday. "We'll monitor him," said Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer, who added an x-ray came back "clear" on Antetokounmpo. "We have to wait and see what the doctors say... you've got to take it day by day and see how he's doing and how he feels." The Heat, among the NBA's worst 3-point shooting teams this season, made 15-of-25 from beyond the arc at Milwaukee. While the Bucks had gone 11-8 in games without Antetokounmpo this season, the Heat led by as many as 15 points with the big man gone. Miami suffered its own injury setback when guard Tyler Herro suffered a broken right hand diving for a loose ball in the final seconds of the second quarter. He's expected to be out four to six weeks after averaging 20.1 points this season. Jimmy Butler led Miami with 35 points and 11 assists. Gabe Vincent was 4-of-5 from 3-point range and Kevin Love was 4-of-7 on 3-pointers. With Antetokounmpo scoring only eight points, Khris Middleton led the Bucks with 33 points. Clippers defeat Suns Kawhi Leonard scored 13 of his game-high 38 points in the fourth quarter to spark the Los Angeles Clippers to a 115-110 victory at Phoenix in their series opener. Russell Westbrook had nine points, 10 rebounds, eight assists and three blocked shots, the biggest on Devin Booker in the final seconds to help seal victory. Kevin Durant had 27 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds but suffered his first loss since joining the Suns from Brooklyn. Clippers forward Paul George was out with a sprained right knee and is questionable for the playoffs. Japan's Rui Hachimura came off the Lakers bench to match an NBA record for reserve playoff scoring with 29 points while a closing 30-11 LA run. "That's probably the best game he has had in his career," Memphis' Desmond Bane said of Hachimura. "Let's see if he can do it again on Wednesday." 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. Austin Reaves, making his playoff debut, scored 14 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter for the Lakers after Memphis opened the period with an 11-2 run for a 101-98 lead. Anthony Davis had 22 points, 12 rebounds and seven blocked shots for the Lakers while LeBron James contributed 21 points, 11 rebounds and five assists and D'Angelo Russell added 19 points and a game-high seven assists. It was the first time since 1988 the Lakers had four players with 20 or more points in a playoff game. Jaren Jackson led Memphis with 31 points.

NBA Playoffs Round 1: Lakers, Heat win after Grizzlies' Morant, Bucks' Antetokounmpo suffer injuries

Joel Embiid and James Harden sparked a Philadelphia 76ers romp while the Boston Celtics cruised to victory behind Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum in NBA playoff openers on Saturday.

NBA scoring champion Embiid scored 26 points while NBA assists champion Harden added 23 points and 13 assists in the Sixers' 121-101 rout of visiting Brooklyn.

The host Sixers, who led the NBA in 3-point shooting percentage, sank a club playoff record 21 3-pointers in 43 attempts to seize a 1-0 lead in the Eastern Conference best-of-seven opening series, which continues Monday in Philadelphia.

"(That) was a good win for us," Harden said. "We'll be watching film. Game two is going to be the toughest game of the series for us. We'll be ready to go."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-heat-timberwolves-enter-playoffs-as-number-8-seed-to-complete-bracket-582718">Heat, Timberwolves enter Playoffs as number 8 seed to complete bracket</a>

The Celtics ripped visiting Atlanta 112-99 behind 29 points and 12 rebounds from Brown and 25 points and 11 rebounds from Tatum.

Brown played with a wrapping on cut fingers and a protective mask he has had for two months due to a facial fracture.

"Got to come out and be ready to go," he said. "My team depends on me. My city depends on me. I don't make no excuses. I come out and play ball."

The first NBA playoff nail-biter came at Cleveland, where Jalen Brunson scored 21 of his team-high 27 points in the second half to lead New York over Cleveland 101-97.

The host Cavaliers, who had 38 points from Donovan Mitchell in a losing cause, went on a 9-0 run for a 93-92 lead before the Knicks reclaimed the lead.

Brunson's driving layup boosted the Knicks ahead 99-95 but Jarrett Allen's dunk tightened the game for Cleveland. A Brunson miss was rebounded by New York's Julius Randle, who had 19 points and 10 rebounds, and that set up two clinching Knicks free throws by Quentin Grimes.

"They don't quit. They just kept fighting," Brunson said of the Cavs. "We kept our composure. Made plays down the stretch, made a couple of huge stops. We just kept fighting, kept sticking together and stayed poised."

The Western Conference opener later sends defending champion Golden State to Sacramento, where the host Kings make their first playoff appearance since 2006.

Philadelphia's Embiid, the NBA season scoring leader with 33.1 points a game, went 7-of-15 from the floor but the Cameroonian star was 11-of-11 from the free throw line.

Harden, who hit 7-of-13 from 3-point range, became the first player in 76ers history with 20 points, 10 assists and five 3-pointers in one contest.

He also helped eight Sixers in all to make 3-pointers.

"Just finding ways to impact the game possession by possession," said Harden, a former Nets backcourt star.

"It's the playoffs. Things don't go the way you want as much as you want them to. You've got to keep pushing, keeping fighting, and I'm happy we got a win."

In the times the Nets stifled Embiid, Harden picked them apart with inside moves, skilled shotmaking and precision passing.

"I've been doing it for a very, very long time at the highest level so it's pretty easy," Harden said. "As long as I get into the paint and create good shots, I'm doing my job. Most of the time my teammates are making the shots."

Philadelphia made a club one-half playoff record of 13 3-pointers on the way to a 67-58 halftime edge.

Brooklyn's Mikal Bridges scored a game-high 30 points, but only seven in the second half.

<h2>Come out locked in</h2>

At Boston,&nbsp;Derrick White contributed 24 points for Boston, which used a 20-3 second-quarter run to seize a 74-44 half-time lead.

The Hawks, led by Dejounte Murray's 24 points, rallied in the second half but could not mount a sustained threat.

"Starts on defense," Brown said. "Coming out and being locked in defensively. That's a good young team. We've got to give them respect and come out and play them tight and stay aggressive."

Brown wants to avoid second-half fades after building big leads.

"That's the journey for us, to stay and keep that mentality locked in throughout the playoffs, 48 minutes throughout the game," he said.

"Tonight we waned a little bit but we will pick it up as the playoffs go on."

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Joel Embiid and James Harden sparked a Philadelphia 76ers romp while the Boston Celtics cruised to victory behind Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum in NBA playoff openers on Saturday.

Joel Embiid and James Harden sparked a Philadelphia 76ers romp while the Boston Celtics cruised to victory behind Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum in NBA playoff openers on Saturday. NBA scoring champion Embiid scored 26 points while NBA assists champion Harden added 23 points and 13 assists in the Sixers' 121-101 rout of visiting Brooklyn. The host Sixers, who led the NBA in 3-point shooting percentage, sank a club playoff record 21 3-pointers in 43 attempts to seize a 1-0 lead in the Eastern Conference best-of-seven opening series, which continues Monday in Philadelphia. "(That) was a good win for us," Harden said. "We'll be watching film. Game two is going to be the toughest game of the series for us. We'll be ready to go." Also Read: Heat, Timberwolves enter Playoffs as number 8 seed to complete bracket The Celtics ripped visiting Atlanta 112-99 behind 29 points and 12 rebounds from Brown and 25 points and 11 rebounds from Tatum. Brown played with a wrapping on cut fingers and a protective mask he has had for two months due to a facial fracture. "Got to come out and be ready to go," he said. "My team depends on me. My city depends on me. I don't make no excuses. I come out and play ball." The first NBA playoff nail-biter came at Cleveland, where Jalen Brunson scored 21 of his team-high 27 points in the second half to lead New York over Cleveland 101-97. The host Cavaliers, who had 38 points from Donovan Mitchell in a losing cause, went on a 9-0 run for a 93-92 lead before the Knicks reclaimed the lead. Brunson's driving layup boosted the Knicks ahead 99-95 but Jarrett Allen's dunk tightened the game for Cleveland. A Brunson miss was rebounded by New York's Julius Randle, who had 19 points and 10 rebounds, and that set up two clinching Knicks free throws by Quentin Grimes. "They don't quit. They just kept fighting," Brunson said of the Cavs. "We kept our composure. Made plays down the stretch, made a couple of huge stops. We just kept fighting, kept sticking together and stayed poised." The Western Conference opener later sends defending champion Golden State to Sacramento, where the host Kings make their first playoff appearance since 2006. Philadelphia's Embiid, the NBA season scoring leader with 33.1 points a game, went 7-of-15 from the floor but the Cameroonian star was 11-of-11 from the free throw line. Harden, who hit 7-of-13 from 3-point range, became the first player in 76ers history with 20 points, 10 assists and five 3-pointers in one contest. He also helped eight Sixers in all to make 3-pointers. "Just finding ways to impact the game possession by possession," said Harden, a former Nets backcourt star. "It's the playoffs. Things don't go the way you want as much as you want them to. You've got to keep pushing, keeping fighting, and I'm happy we got a win." In the times the Nets stifled Embiid, Harden picked them apart with inside moves, skilled shotmaking and precision passing. "I've been doing it for a very, very long time at the highest level so it's pretty easy," Harden said. "As long as I get into the paint and create good shots, I'm doing my job. Most of the time my teammates are making the shots." Philadelphia made a club one-half playoff record of 13 3-pointers on the way to a 67-58 halftime edge. Brooklyn's Mikal Bridges scored a game-high 30 points, but only seven in the second half. Come out locked in At Boston, Derrick White contributed 24 points for Boston, which used a 20-3 second-quarter run to seize a 74-44 half-time lead. The Hawks, led by Dejounte Murray's 24 points, rallied in the second half but could not mount a sustained threat. "Starts on defense," Brown said. "Coming out and being locked in defensively. That's a good young team. We've got to give them respect and come out and play them tight and stay aggressive." Brown wants to avoid second-half fades after building big leads. "That's the journey for us, to stay and keep that mentality locked in throughout the playoffs, 48 minutes throughout the game," he said. "Tonight we waned a little bit but we will pick it up as the playoffs go on." 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 Playoffs: Sixers, Celtics, Knicks advance with Game 1 win

Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat caught fire down the stretch to beat the Chicago Bulls 102-91 and reach the NBA playoffs on Friday, as the Minnesota Timberwolves dominated the Oklahoma City Thunder to book their postseason berth.

Miami, smarting from a loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday, clinched the Eastern Conference's eighth and final seed to set up a meeting with the top seeded Milwaukee Bucks starting on Sunday.

Minnesota meanwhile will face Western Conference top seeds Denver in the first round of the playoffs after a comprehensive 120-95 blowout of Oklahoma City.

While Minnesota romped into the postseason, Miami's clash with Chicago went down to the wire before Butler, helped by the three-pointers of Max Strus, secured victory for Erik Spoelstra's team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/10-shortest-players-in-nba-1681470842745" target="_blank">10 Shortest NBA Players of 2023</a>

Butler put up 31 points, a tally matched by Strus who shot 7-12 on three pointers, including a crucial 26-foot jumper with 1:14 left that put Miami 96-91 up.

For Strus, who grew up as a Bulls fan in the suburbs of Chicago and was released by them before joining Miami, it was a sweet night.

"It's huge. It doesn't really matter who we're playing - we had to win this one, no matter what. It was win or go home and we're not done yet.

"So we want to keep playing and it's good to get that one. But it does feel a little bit better against them, I'm not gonna lie," he said.

Strus secured the win with three free throws after he was fouled by Alex Caruso as he tried to make a throw from the corner.

The Heat had been 14 points up in the first quarter but a 12-2 run from the Bulls in the third levelled the game up at 56-56.

A Zach LaVine dunk then put Chicago up for the first time since the opening basket of the game and three three-pointers early in the fourth from Coby White ensured the Bulls were 90-87 with three minutes to go.

<h2>Wolves down Thunder</h2>

But then Butler and Strus took control.

Butler was fouled while making a lay-up and then Bam Adebayo, who grabbed 17 rebounds, sank two free throws after he was fouled by Nikola Vucevic to make it 93-90.

Butler set up Strus for a three pointer before he then made sure of the victory from the free-throw line.

The Heat had found themselves in the elimination game after losing their opening play-in game to the Atlanta Hawks and faced the prospect of being the first divisional winner not to make the playoffs.

"I don't think any of us felt any type of pressure. We went out, we competed, we played the right way, corrected some things, and did what we were supposed to do," said Butler.

DeMar DeRozan&nbsp;top scored for the Bulls with 26 points and nine assists.&nbsp;

There is little time for Miami to savor the victory however as their playoff series against the Bucks begins in Milwaukee on Sunday.

"Man, it's going to be tough," said Butler, "But I think we got a shot. A really good shot at that. As long as we stick together. I'm telling you, we're a really good team and we're going to go out there and play," he said.

In Minneapolis, the Timberwolves put their team's recent turbulence behind them to demolish Oklahoma City.

Minnesota finished the regular season in disarray, with team-mates Rudy Gobert and Kyle Anderson involved in a sideline punch-up in their final regular season game last Sunday.

Gobert was subsequently suspended for Tuesday's play-in defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers, but returned on Friday to contribute 21 points in a convincing victory.

Minnesota led by as many as 29 points at one stage in the fourth quarter and were up by double digits for most of the second half.

Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves scoring with 28 points while all five starters finished in double figures.

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Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat caught fire down the stretch to beat the Chicago Bulls 102-91 and reach the NBA playoffs on Friday, as the Minnesota Timberwolves dominated the Oklahoma City Thunder to book their postseason berth.

Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat caught fire down the stretch to beat the Chicago Bulls 102-91 and reach the NBA playoffs on Friday, as the Minnesota Timberwolves dominated the Oklahoma City Thunder to book their postseason berth. Miami, smarting from a loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday, clinched the Eastern Conference's eighth and final seed to set up a meeting with the top seeded Milwaukee Bucks starting on Sunday. Minnesota meanwhile will face Western Conference top seeds Denver in the first round of the playoffs after a comprehensive 120-95 blowout of Oklahoma City. While Minnesota romped into the postseason, Miami's clash with Chicago went down to the wire before Butler, helped by the three-pointers of Max Strus, secured victory for Erik Spoelstra's team. Also Read: 10 Shortest NBA Players of 2023 Butler put up 31 points, a tally matched by Strus who shot 7-12 on three pointers, including a crucial 26-foot jumper with 1:14 left that put Miami 96-91 up. For Strus, who grew up as a Bulls fan in the suburbs of Chicago and was released by them before joining Miami, it was a sweet night. "It's huge. It doesn't really matter who we're playing - we had to win this one, no matter what. It was win or go home and we're not done yet. "So we want to keep playing and it's good to get that one. But it does feel a little bit better against them, I'm not gonna lie," he said. Strus secured the win with three free throws after he was fouled by Alex Caruso as he tried to make a throw from the corner. The Heat had been 14 points up in the first quarter but a 12-2 run from the Bulls in the third levelled the game up at 56-56. A Zach LaVine dunk then put Chicago up for the first time since the opening basket of the game and three three-pointers early in the fourth from Coby White ensured the Bulls were 90-87 with three minutes to go. Wolves down Thunder But then Butler and Strus took control. Butler was fouled while making a lay-up and then Bam Adebayo, who grabbed 17 rebounds, sank two free throws after he was fouled by Nikola Vucevic to make it 93-90. Butler set up Strus for a three pointer before he then made sure of the victory from the free-throw line. The Heat had found themselves in the elimination game after losing their opening play-in game to the Atlanta Hawks and faced the prospect of being the first divisional winner not to make the playoffs. "I don't think any of us felt any type of pressure. We went out, we competed, we played the right way, corrected some things, and did what we were supposed to do," said Butler. DeMar DeRozan top scored for the Bulls with 26 points and nine assists. There is little time for Miami to savor the victory however as their playoff series against the Bucks begins in Milwaukee on Sunday. "Man, it's going to be tough," said Butler, "But I think we got a shot. A really good shot at that. As long as we stick together. I'm telling you, we're a really good team and we're going to go out there and play," he said. In Minneapolis, the Timberwolves put their team's recent turbulence behind them to demolish Oklahoma City. Minnesota finished the regular season in disarray, with team-mates Rudy Gobert and Kyle Anderson involved in a sideline punch-up in their final regular season game last Sunday. Gobert was subsequently suspended for Tuesday's play-in defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers, but returned on Friday to contribute 21 points in a convincing victory. Minnesota led by as many as 29 points at one stage in the fourth quarter and were up by double digits for most of the second half. Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves scoring with 28 points while all five starters finished in double figures. 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: Heat, Timberwolves enter Playoffs as number 8 seed to complete bracket

NBA playoff games were cancelled for a second straight day on Thursday, but players pledged to return to the court as they sought support from team owners in tackling racial injustice.

A Milwaukee Bucks boycott inside the NBA's Orlando "bubble" on Wednesday sparked a wave of protest that ultimately saw dozens of games called off across an array of sports -- basketball, football, baseball, ice hockey and tennis.

Black players, their teammates and supporters demanded action in the face of yet another police shooting of an African American after Jacob Blake was shot several times in the back in the Midwestern city of Kenosha on Sunday.

The Bucks boycott, which was joined by their scheduled opponents the Orlando Magic, prompted the NBA to postpone all three playoff games scheduled for Wednesday and three more slated for Thursday as players from all teams debated whether to continue the season already disrupted by coronavirus.

Players agreed on Thursday to continue the playoffs, with LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers -- who had been in favor Wednesday night of abandoning the season -- reportedly "on board" with the decision.

"NBA playoff games for (Thursday) will not be played as scheduled," league executive vice-president Mike Bass said in a statement after an NBA Board of Governors meeting Thursday.&nbsp;

"We are hopeful to resume games either Friday or Saturday."

ESPN and other US media reported late Thursday that games would most likely resume on Saturday.

Players from all 13 teams in Orlando, along with representatives from the National Basketball Players Association, the league office and NBA Labor Relations Committee Chairman and basketball legend Michael Jordan met Thursday to discuss player concerns.

Details of the meeting were not immediately available, but ESPN reported that players pushed for owners to join them in a "direct action plan" to promote voter turnout, police accountability and police reform legislation.

Meanwhile, the NBA's stoppage continued to ripple through the sports world.

The National Hockey League, which didn't postpone games on Wednesday, called off games in its quarantine bubbles in Toronto and Edmonton on Thursday and Friday.

"We understand that the tragedies involving Jacob Blake, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others require us to recognize this moment," the league and its players association said in a statement.&nbsp;

"We pledge to work to use our sport to influence positive change in society."

Seven Major League Baseball games were called off on Thursday and nine NFL teams cancelled practice with the start of their season just two weeks away.

The courts were quiet at the National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, although two-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka agreed to go ahead with her Western &amp; Southern Open semi-final on Friday after initially saying she was pulling out of the event.

"I was (and am) ready and prepared to concede the match to my opponent," Osaka said. "However, after my announcement and lengthy consultation with the WTA and USTA, I have agreed at their request to play on Friday."

"They offered to postpone all matches until Friday and in my mind that brings more attention to the movement."

The WNBA women's basketball league postponed its slate of games on Thursday for a second day running, but players said they intended to return to the court on Friday.

Since resuming their season in a quarantine bubble in Florida, WNBA players have demanded justice for Breonna Taylor, a black woman who was killed in her own apartment by police in Louisville, Kentucky, who burst into her home executing a "no knock" search warrant.

Los Angeles Sparks forward Nneka Ogwumike, president of the WNBA players' union, said Thursday's pause in games was a "moment of reflection" for players and a chance for them to "recommit" to their fight for racial and social justice.

<h2>- 'Change happens with action' -</h2>

Demands for racial equality have reverberated across basketball following the killing of unarmed black man George Floyd by Minneapolis police in May.

The NBA's coronavirus-halted season resumed last month against the backdrop of ongoing nationwide protests following Floyd's death.

While the league has embraced the Black Lives Matter movement, the shooting of Blake -- which Blake's lawyer says left him paralyzed -- galvanized players to further action.

Lakers superstar James, already backing a get-out-the vote initiative, said action was imperative.

"Change doesn't happen with just talk!! It happens with action and needs to happen NOW!" James wrote on Twitter.

There was a predictably cool response to the NBA activism from President Donald Trump.

"They've become like a political organization, and that's not a good thing," Trump said.

NBA playoff games were cancelled for a second straight day on Thursday, but players pledged to return to the court as they sought support from team owners in tackling racial injustice.

NBA playoff games were cancelled for a second straight day on Thursday, but players pledged to return to the court as they sought support from team owners in tackling racial injustice. A Milwaukee Bucks boycott inside the NBA's Orlando "bubble" on Wednesday sparked a wave of protest that ultimately saw dozens of games called off across an array of sports -- basketball, football, baseball, ice hockey and tennis. Black players, their teammates and supporters demanded action in the face of yet another police shooting of an African American after Jacob Blake was shot several times in the back in the Midwestern city of Kenosha on Sunday. The Bucks boycott, which was joined by their scheduled opponents the Orlando Magic, prompted the NBA to postpone all three playoff games scheduled for Wednesday and three more slated for Thursday as players from all teams debated whether to continue the season already disrupted by coronavirus. Players agreed on Thursday to continue the playoffs, with LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers -- who had been in favor Wednesday night of abandoning the season -- reportedly "on board" with the decision. "NBA playoff games for (Thursday) will not be played as scheduled," league executive vice-president Mike Bass said in a statement after an NBA Board of Governors meeting Thursday. "We are hopeful to resume games either Friday or Saturday." ESPN and other US media reported late Thursday that games would most likely resume on Saturday. Players from all 13 teams in Orlando, along with representatives from the National Basketball Players Association, the league office and NBA Labor Relations Committee Chairman and basketball legend Michael Jordan met Thursday to discuss player concerns. Details of the meeting were not immediately available, but ESPN reported that players pushed for owners to join them in a "direct action plan" to promote voter turnout, police accountability and police reform legislation. Meanwhile, the NBA's stoppage continued to ripple through the sports world. The National Hockey League, which didn't postpone games on Wednesday, called off games in its quarantine bubbles in Toronto and Edmonton on Thursday and Friday. "We understand that the tragedies involving Jacob Blake, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others require us to recognize this moment," the league and its players association said in a statement. "We pledge to work to use our sport to influence positive change in society." Seven Major League Baseball games were called off on Thursday and nine NFL teams cancelled practice with the start of their season just two weeks away. The courts were quiet at the National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, although two-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka agreed to go ahead with her Western & Southern Open semi-final on Friday after initially saying she was pulling out of the event. "I was (and am) ready and prepared to concede the match to my opponent," Osaka said. "However, after my announcement and lengthy consultation with the WTA and USTA, I have agreed at their request to play on Friday." "They offered to postpone all matches until Friday and in my mind that brings more attention to the movement." The WNBA women's basketball league postponed its slate of games on Thursday for a second day running, but players said they intended to return to the court on Friday. Since resuming their season in a quarantine bubble in Florida, WNBA players have demanded justice for Breonna Taylor, a black woman who was killed in her own apartment by police in Louisville, Kentucky, who burst into her home executing a "no knock" search warrant. Los Angeles Sparks forward Nneka Ogwumike, president of the WNBA players' union, said Thursday's pause in games was a "moment of reflection" for players and a chance for them to "recommit" to their fight for racial and social justice. - 'Change happens with action' - Demands for racial equality have reverberated across basketball following the killing of unarmed black man George Floyd by Minneapolis police in May. The NBA's coronavirus-halted season resumed last month against the backdrop of ongoing nationwide protests following Floyd's death. While the league has embraced the Black Lives Matter movement, the shooting of Blake -- which Blake's lawyer says left him paralyzed -- galvanized players to further action. Lakers superstar James, already backing a get-out-the vote initiative, said action was imperative. "Change doesn't happen with just talk!! It happens with action and needs to happen NOW!" James wrote on Twitter. There was a predictably cool response to the NBA activism from President Donald Trump. "They've become like a political organization, and that's not a good thing," Trump said.

NBA eyes return as players, owners discuss action on racial injustice

The National Basketball Association (NBA) postponed all three playoff games on Wednesday after the Milwaukee Bucks boycotted Game 5 of their series against the Orlando Magic to protest racial injustice, triggering similar moves across other sports.

The action by the Wisconsin-based team follows the police shooting of Jacob Blake, a Black man, in the city of Kenosha, also in Wisconsin, on Sunday.

Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer and the Women’s NBA also postponed games, while two-times tennis Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka joined the protests by pulling out of a tournament after reaching the semi-finals.

The Bucks players said in a statement they were unable to focus on basketball due to the events in Kenosha.

“Over the last few days in our home state of Wisconsin we have seen the horrendous video of Jacob Blake being shot in the back seven times by a police officer in Kenosha and the additional shooting of protesters,” they said.

“Despite the overwhelming plea for change there has been no action so our focus today cannot be on basketball.”

In addition to the Bucks-Magic game, the NBA said the Houston Rockets-Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers-Portland Trail Blazers games would be rescheduled.

“WE DEMAND CHANGE. SICK OF IT,” tweeted LeBron James, the four-times NBA Most Valuable Player.

Former U.S. President Barack Obama praised the Bucks in a Twitter post that included a video clip of an emotional Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers talking about Blake.

“I commend the players on the @Bucks for standing up for what they believe in, coaches like @DocRivers, and the @NBA and @WNBA for setting an example. It’s going to take all our institutions to stand up for our values,” wrote Obama.

<h3>‘SHINE A LIGHT’</h3>

Major League Baseball postponed games in Milwaukee, San Diego and San Francisco scheduled for Wednesday while Major League Soccer decided to postpone the five remaining games on its schedule.

“Given the pain in the communities of Wisconsin and beyond following the shooting of Jacob Blake, we respect the decisions of a number of players not to play tonight,” MLB said in a statement.

The WNBA also postponed three games scheduled for Wednesday. Players on the reigning WNBA champion Washington Mystics wore T-shirts that depicted seven bloody bullet holes on their backs.

World number 10 tennis player Osaka withdrew from a U.S. Open tune-up tournament after she reached the semi-finals.

“As a Black woman I feel as though there are much more important matters at hand that need immediate attention, rather than watching me play tennis,” Osaka said.

Kenosha has been rocked by civil unrest and violence since Sunday, when police shot Blake, 29, in the back at close range in an incident captured on video. Blake is paralyzed and is being treated for his injuries.

A 17-year-old identified as Kyle Rittenhouse was arrested and charged with homicide on Wednesday in connection with gunfire that killed two people and wounded a third during a third night of protests on Tuesday.

<figure>&nbsp;</figure>

The Magic, who trail 3-1 in the best-of-seven, first-round series, left the court when it was clear the Bucks were not going to play. Beyonce’s song “Freedom” rang out in the empty Orlando arena as the clock counting down to the start of the game ran out.

The Bucks ownership said they were not aware ahead of time of what the players were planning but supported them.

“The only way to bring about change is to shine a light on racial injustices that are happening in front of us,” co-owners Marc Lasry, Wes Edens and Jamie Dinan said in a statement.

Athletes from around the world have united behind anti-racism protests sparked by the death of George Floyd, a Black man in police custody in Minneapolis in May.

Since the NBA restarted its COVID-19 hit season in a bubble-like campus at Disney World in Florida, courts have the words “Black Lives Matter” painted on them and many players are wearing jerseys with social justice slogans.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) postponed all three playoff games on Wednesday after the Milwaukee Bucks boycotted Game 5 of their series against the Orlando Magic to protest racial injustice, triggering similar moves across other sports.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) postponed all three playoff games on Wednesday after the Milwaukee Bucks boycotted Game 5 of their series against the Orlando Magic to protest racial injustice, triggering similar moves across other sports. The action by the Wisconsin-based team follows the police shooting of Jacob Blake, a Black man, in the city of Kenosha, also in Wisconsin, on Sunday. Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer and the Women’s NBA also postponed games, while two-times tennis Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka joined the protests by pulling out of a tournament after reaching the semi-finals. The Bucks players said in a statement they were unable to focus on basketball due to the events in Kenosha. “Over the last few days in our home state of Wisconsin we have seen the horrendous video of Jacob Blake being shot in the back seven times by a police officer in Kenosha and the additional shooting of protesters,” they said. “Despite the overwhelming plea for change there has been no action so our focus today cannot be on basketball.” In addition to the Bucks-Magic game, the NBA said the Houston Rockets-Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers-Portland Trail Blazers games would be rescheduled. “WE DEMAND CHANGE. SICK OF IT,” tweeted LeBron James, the four-times NBA Most Valuable Player. Former U.S. President Barack Obama praised the Bucks in a Twitter post that included a video clip of an emotional Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers talking about Blake. “I commend the players on the @Bucks for standing up for what they believe in, coaches like @DocRivers, and the @NBA and @WNBA for setting an example. It’s going to take all our institutions to stand up for our values,” wrote Obama. ‘SHINE A LIGHT’ Major League Baseball postponed games in Milwaukee, San Diego and San Francisco scheduled for Wednesday while Major League Soccer decided to postpone the five remaining games on its schedule. “Given the pain in the communities of Wisconsin and beyond following the shooting of Jacob Blake, we respect the decisions of a number of players not to play tonight,” MLB said in a statement. The WNBA also postponed three games scheduled for Wednesday. Players on the reigning WNBA champion Washington Mystics wore T-shirts that depicted seven bloody bullet holes on their backs. World number 10 tennis player Osaka withdrew from a U.S. Open tune-up tournament after she reached the semi-finals. “As a Black woman I feel as though there are much more important matters at hand that need immediate attention, rather than watching me play tennis,” Osaka said. Kenosha has been rocked by civil unrest and violence since Sunday, when police shot Blake, 29, in the back at close range in an incident captured on video. Blake is paralyzed and is being treated for his injuries. A 17-year-old identified as Kyle Rittenhouse was arrested and charged with homicide on Wednesday in connection with gunfire that killed two people and wounded a third during a third night of protests on Tuesday. The Magic, who trail 3-1 in the best-of-seven, first-round series, left the court when it was clear the Bucks were not going to play. Beyonce’s song “Freedom” rang out in the empty Orlando arena as the clock counting down to the start of the game ran out. The Bucks ownership said they were not aware ahead of time of what the players were planning but supported them. “The only way to bring about change is to shine a light on racial injustices that are happening in front of us,” co-owners Marc Lasry, Wes Edens and Jamie Dinan said in a statement. Athletes from around the world have united behind anti-racism protests sparked by the death of George Floyd, a Black man in police custody in Minneapolis in May. Since the NBA restarted its COVID-19 hit season in a bubble-like campus at Disney World in Florida, courts have the words “Black Lives Matter” painted on them and many players are wearing jerseys with social justice slogans.

NBA postpones games after Bucks boycott, other sports follow suit

Cleveland superstar LeBron James surpassed NBA icon Michael Jordan as the league&#39;s all-time playoff scoring leader on Thursday in the Cavaliers&#39; Eastern Conference finals game against the Celtics in Boston.

With a three-pointer in the third quarter James, 32, took his total of playoff points to 5,989 -- two more than Jordan&#39;s 5,987. He entered the contest needing 28 points to surpass Jordan.

Jordan, who led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA titles in the 1990s, played 179 post-season games in his career.

James moves past him to the top of the list in his 212th career playoff game.

(AFP)

With a three-pointer in the third quarter, James took his total of playoff points to 5,989, or two more than Jordan's 5,987

Cleveland superstar LeBron James surpassed NBA icon Michael Jordan as the league's all-time playoff scoring leader on Thursday in the Cavaliers' Eastern Conference finals game against the Celtics in Boston. With a three-pointer in the third quarter James, 32, took his total of playoff points to 5,989 -- two more than Jordan's 5,987. He entered the contest needing 28 points to surpass Jordan. Jordan, who led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA titles in the 1990s, played 179 post-season games in his career. James moves past him to the top of the list in his 212th career playoff game. (AFP)

LeBron James overtakes Michael Jordan for most playoff points in NBA history

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