The NBA 2022-23 season has entered the playoffs and with that, the preparations for the 2023 NBA Lottery Draft and NBA Draft have started. The Draft Lottery process, which was revamped in 2017 and came into force 2019 onwards, will be held on May 16, 2023 to determine the selection of the first 14 picks&nbsp;of the NBA Draft.

<h2>Here are all the details about the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery and NBA Draft:</h2>

<h3>Which teams will be participating in the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery?</h3>

14 of the 32 teams which didn't make it to the NBA Playoffs 2023, including the Playin tournament will be part for the Lottery Draft process. Here are teams which will be part of the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery with their regular-season win-loss record:

<table align="center" border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Team</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">Regulars-season win-loss record</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">Win %</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Detroit Pistons</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">17-65</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.207</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Houston Rockets</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">22-60</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.268</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">San Antonio Spurs</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">22-60</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.268</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Charlotte Hornets</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">27-55</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.329</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Portland Trail Blazers</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">33-49</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.402</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Orlando Magic</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">34-48</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.415</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Indiana Pacers</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">35-47</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.427</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Washington Wizards</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">35-47</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.427</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Utah Jazz</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">37-45</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.451</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Dallas Mavericks</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">38-44</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.463</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Chicago Bulls</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">40-42</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.488</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Oklahoma City Thunder</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">40-42</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.488</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">Toronto Raptors</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">41-41</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.500</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 166px;">New Orleans Pelicans</td>
			<td style="width: 241px;">42-40</td>
			<td style="width: 75px;">0.512</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<h3>What format does NBA Lottery Draft work with?</h3>

The current format of the NBA Lottery Draft was introduced in 2019 after the league approved the changes in 2017. As per the current lottery draft rules, the team with the worst win-loss record will get no lower than fourth pick in the NBA draft. Prior to 2019, the team with the worst win-loss record, got no lower than fifth pick in the NBA draft.

Also, post 2019, three teams with the worst regular-season win-loss record have a 14 percent probability of winning the lottery draft. Before 2019, the team with the worst regular-season win-loss record had 25 percent chance of winning the lottery draft while the next two worst teams had 19.9 percent and 15.6 percent chances of winning the lottery draft, respectively.

The rules also state that a drawing will be conducted through a lottery machine to decide the top four picks among the teams with the worst regular-season win-loss record, that is, the 14 teams which did not make it to the playoffs. The draft picks from number 5 to 14 will be picked by the rest of the teams from the bottom 14 in inverse order of their regular-season win-loss record after the top four picks have been assigned through drawing.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-grizzlies-dillon-brooks-hits-lakers-lebron-james-in-groin-in-game-3-gets-ejected-watch-585292">NBA Playoffs 2023: Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks hits Lakers' LeBron James in groin in Game 3, gets ejected</a>

<h3>How does the NBA Lottery work&nbsp;for the top four picks?</h3>

To determine the order of top four NBA Draft picks among the 14 non-playoff teams, a lottery machine will be used. Fourteen ping-pong balls numbered from 1 to 14 will be put in the lottery machine. After mixing all the balls for 20 seconds, one ball would be drawn. The remaining balls would then be mixed for 10 further seconds and a second ball would be drawn. The procedure would be repeated for the third and fourth ball as well.

Once all the four balls are drawn, the combination, for example, 1,6,9,14 (on ball 1, ball 2, ball 3 and ball 4, respectively) would be matched against the team which has been assigned that particular combination. Whichever team gets the first combination right among the fourteen participating teams, will get to pick the first player in the NBA Draft.

The same process will be repeated for the NBA Draft pick number two to four as well.

<h3>How the combination from drawing the balls are assigned?</h3>

There are 1001 possible combination which the lottery machine could throw up while drawing the balls. 1000 of these 1001 combinations are assigned to the 14 participating teams before the process of drawing the balls from the machine starts.

<h3>What if a combination gets repeated or the one not assigned to any team pops up?</h3>

If a combination after drawing all the four balls gets repeated then the result will be discarded and the process would be repeated again. The same rule applies if an unassigned combination is thrown by the lottery machine.

<h3>Who makes the lottery machines?</h3>

Smart Play, one of the top most manufacturers of the of the state lottery machines throughout the United States, will be making the NBA Lottery Draft machine. Smart Play will also weigh, measure and certify the ping-pong balls to be used in the process before drawing.

<h3>When and where will the drawing take place in 2023?</h3>

The lottery drawing procedure will take place on the same day as NBA Lottery Draft, i.e., May 16, 2023 before the official broadcast takes place.

<h3>What happens after the NBA Lottery Draft?</h3>

The actual draft takes places around a month after the last 14 teams have been assigned the picks to select the players at the NBA Draft. This year, the NBA Draft will be held on June 22.

<h3>How the NBA playoff teams will select the players in the NBA Draft?</h3>

After the bottom 14 teams have been assigned the NBA Draft pick number, rest of the picks, that is, 15-30, will be picked by the teams which made into playoffs in reverse order of their regular-season record.

<h3>How will the teams pick players from 31-60 in second round of NBA Draft?</h3>

The picks are allotted to NBA teams in the second round based on their regular-season win-loss record in reverse order, though. It means that that team with most wins will pick last.

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The NBA 2022-23 season has entered the playoffs and with that, the preparations for the 2023 NBA Lottery Draft and NBA Draft have started. The Draft Lottery process, which was revamped in 2017 and came into force 2019 onwards, will be held on May 16, 2023 to determine the selection of the first 14 picks of the NBA Draft.

The NBA 2022-23 season has entered the playoffs and with that, the preparations for the 2023 NBA Lottery Draft and NBA Draft have started. The Draft Lottery process, which was revamped in 2017 and came into force 2019 onwards, will be held on May 16, 2023 to determine the selection of the first 14 picks of the NBA Draft. Here are all the details about the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery and NBA Draft: Which teams will be participating in the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery? 14 of the 32 teams which didn't make it to the NBA Playoffs 2023, including the Playin tournament will be part for the Lottery Draft process. Here are teams which will be part of the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery with their regular-season win-loss record: Team Regulars-season win-loss record Win % Detroit Pistons 17-65 0.207 Houston Rockets 22-60 0.268 San Antonio Spurs 22-60 0.268 Charlotte Hornets 27-55 0.329 Portland Trail Blazers 33-49 0.402 Orlando Magic 34-48 0.415 Indiana Pacers 35-47 0.427 Washington Wizards 35-47 0.427 Utah Jazz 37-45 0.451 Dallas Mavericks 38-44 0.463 Chicago Bulls 40-42 0.488 Oklahoma City Thunder 40-42 0.488 Toronto Raptors 41-41 0.500 New Orleans Pelicans 42-40 0.512 What format does NBA Lottery Draft work with? The current format of the NBA Lottery Draft was introduced in 2019 after the league approved the changes in 2017. As per the current lottery draft rules, the team with the worst win-loss record will get no lower than fourth pick in the NBA draft. Prior to 2019, the team with the worst win-loss record, got no lower than fifth pick in the NBA draft. Also, post 2019, three teams with the worst regular-season win-loss record have a 14 percent probability of winning the lottery draft. Before 2019, the team with the worst regular-season win-loss record had 25 percent chance of winning the lottery draft while the next two worst teams had 19.9 percent and 15.6 percent chances of winning the lottery draft, respectively. The rules also state that a drawing will be conducted through a lottery machine to decide the top four picks among the teams with the worst regular-season win-loss record, that is, the 14 teams which did not make it to the playoffs. The draft picks from number 5 to 14 will be picked by the rest of the teams from the bottom 14 in inverse order of their regular-season win-loss record after the top four picks have been assigned through drawing. Also Watch: NBA Playoffs 2023: Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks hits Lakers' LeBron James in groin in Game 3, gets ejected How does the NBA Lottery work for the top four picks? To determine the order of top four NBA Draft picks among the 14 non-playoff teams, a lottery machine will be used. Fourteen ping-pong balls numbered from 1 to 14 will be put in the lottery machine. After mixing all the balls for 20 seconds, one ball would be drawn. The remaining balls would then be mixed for 10 further seconds and a second ball would be drawn. The procedure would be repeated for the third and fourth ball as well. Once all the four balls are drawn, the combination, for example, 1,6,9,14 (on ball 1, ball 2, ball 3 and ball 4, respectively) would be matched against the team which has been assigned that particular combination. Whichever team gets the first combination right among the fourteen participating teams, will get to pick the first player in the NBA Draft. The same process will be repeated for the NBA Draft pick number two to four as well. How the combination from drawing the balls are assigned? There are 1001 possible combination which the lottery machine could throw up while drawing the balls. 1000 of these 1001 combinations are assigned to the 14 participating teams before the process of drawing the balls from the machine starts. What if a combination gets repeated or the one not assigned to any team pops up? If a combination after drawing all the four balls gets repeated then the result will be discarded and the process would be repeated again. The same rule applies if an unassigned combination is thrown by the lottery machine. Who makes the lottery machines? Smart Play, one of the top most manufacturers of the of the state lottery machines throughout the United States, will be making the NBA Lottery Draft machine. Smart Play will also weigh, measure and certify the ping-pong balls to be used in the process before drawing. When and where will the drawing take place in 2023? The lottery drawing procedure will take place on the same day as NBA Lottery Draft, i.e., May 16, 2023 before the official broadcast takes place. What happens after the NBA Lottery Draft? The actual draft takes places around a month after the last 14 teams have been assigned the picks to select the players at the NBA Draft. This year, the NBA Draft will be held on June 22. How the NBA playoff teams will select the players in the NBA Draft? After the bottom 14 teams have been assigned the NBA Draft pick number, rest of the picks, that is, 15-30, will be picked by the teams which made into playoffs in reverse order of their regular-season record. How will the teams pick players from 31-60 in second round of NBA Draft? The picks are allotted to NBA teams in the second round based on their regular-season win-loss record in reverse order, though. It means that that team with most wins will pick last. 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.

Explained: How 2023 NBA Draft Lottery works and all you need to know

Stephen Curry scored 32 points as the Golden State Warriors held off a ferocious fourth-quarter fightback from the Sacramento Kings to secure a series-leveling 126-125 victory in the NBA playoffs on Sunday.

Harrison Barnes almost snatched victory for Sacramento on the buzzer, but his long-range effort bounced off the rim to leave the NBA champions celebrating a result that leaves them tied at 2-2 in the best-of-seven series after dropping games one and two.

In the East, meanwhile, the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics moved within a victory of advancing, the Knicks beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 102-93 and the Celtics downing Atlanta 129-121 to each take 3-1 series leads.

Curry breathed a sigh of relief after two uncharacteristic blunders in a frenetic finale at the Chase Center.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-grizzlies-dillon-brooks-hits-lakers-lebron-james-in-groin-in-game-3-gets-ejected-watch-585292">Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks hits Lakers' LeBron James in groin in Game 3, gets ejected</a>

The Warriors talisman missed a wide-open three-pointer with his team leading 126-121 with less than a minute remaining.

Curry compounded that rare miss by erroneously calling a time out when the Warriors had none left, earning a technical foul and allowing Sacramento's Malik Monk to make it a four-point game with a free throw.

A superb De’Aaron Fox three-pointer from 28 feet then left Sacramento within one at 126-125, and when Curry missed another floater, the Kings had a chance to win it only to see Barnes's late effort bounce out.

"I ain't gonna lie, I thought it was the smartest play in the world," Curry said of his timeout call after a failed challenge had cost the Warriors their last time out. "I looked over at the bench and everybody was shaking their head.

"But we did what we needed to do defensively in those last 10 seconds," a relieved Curry said. "We've protected home court, and now we move on."

Barnes's late miss was the final act of a thrilling battle between the Western Conference rivals that saw the lead change hands no fewer than 19 times as momentum ebbed and flowed throughout.&nbsp;

Golden State looked to have turned the screw decisively in the third quarter, outscoring the Kings 37-23 to start the fourth with a 10-point advantage.

Sacramento, however, came surging back with a 7-0 run to start the final quarter and only a handful of points separated the two teams in the waning seconds.

Curry led the Warriors' scoring with 32 points while Klay Thompson added 26, including four three-pointers, and Jordan Poole had 22.&nbsp;

Andrew Wiggins added 18 points while Draymond Green, returning after suspension, had 12 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists off the bench.

Fox produced a dazzling performance for Sacramento with 38 points while Keegan Murray added 23 and Monk 16.

The Kings host game five on Wednesday.

<h2>Knicks almost there</h2>

In New York, Jalen Brunson drained five three-pointers on the way to 29 points for the Knicks, who again electrified Madison Square Garden.

With just one win from three more games the Knicks can advance past the first round for the first time since 2013.

New York led by as many as 15 on the way to a nine-point halftime lead.

A big third quarter saw the Cavs sneak into a narrow lead before a sustained Knicks rally in the fourth.

Brunson was one of four players in double figures with R.J. Barrett providing offensive support with 26 points.

Darius Garland led Cleveland 23 points but Donovan Mitchell had a game to forget after finishing with just 11 points -- only two in the second half.

The Cavs will try to extend the series when they host game five on Wednesday.

The Celtics can wrap up their series at home on Tuesday after bouncing back from a disappointing game-three defeat with a convincing victory in Atlanta.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown scored 31 points apiece for the Celtics, each delivering a dunk in the final minute as the Celtics thwarted the Hawks' final rally bid.

Hawks star Trae Young finished with a game-high 35 points and handed out 14 assists.

But Boston stepped up their defensive intensity and had an answer for every Atlanta run, never trailing after the first quarter.

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Stephen Curry scored 32 points as the Golden State Warriors held off a ferocious fourth-quarter fightback from the Sacramento Kings to secure a series-leveling 126-125 victory in the NBA playoffs on Sunday.

Stephen Curry scored 32 points as the Golden State Warriors held off a ferocious fourth-quarter fightback from the Sacramento Kings to secure a series-leveling 126-125 victory in the NBA playoffs on Sunday. Harrison Barnes almost snatched victory for Sacramento on the buzzer, but his long-range effort bounced off the rim to leave the NBA champions celebrating a result that leaves them tied at 2-2 in the best-of-seven series after dropping games one and two. In the East, meanwhile, the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics moved within a victory of advancing, the Knicks beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 102-93 and the Celtics downing Atlanta 129-121 to each take 3-1 series leads. Curry breathed a sigh of relief after two uncharacteristic blunders in a frenetic finale at the Chase Center. Also Watch: Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks hits Lakers' LeBron James in groin in Game 3, gets ejected The Warriors talisman missed a wide-open three-pointer with his team leading 126-121 with less than a minute remaining. Curry compounded that rare miss by erroneously calling a time out when the Warriors had none left, earning a technical foul and allowing Sacramento's Malik Monk to make it a four-point game with a free throw. A superb De’Aaron Fox three-pointer from 28 feet then left Sacramento within one at 126-125, and when Curry missed another floater, the Kings had a chance to win it only to see Barnes's late effort bounce out. "I ain't gonna lie, I thought it was the smartest play in the world," Curry said of his timeout call after a failed challenge had cost the Warriors their last time out. "I looked over at the bench and everybody was shaking their head. "But we did what we needed to do defensively in those last 10 seconds," a relieved Curry said. "We've protected home court, and now we move on." Barnes's late miss was the final act of a thrilling battle between the Western Conference rivals that saw the lead change hands no fewer than 19 times as momentum ebbed and flowed throughout. Golden State looked to have turned the screw decisively in the third quarter, outscoring the Kings 37-23 to start the fourth with a 10-point advantage. Sacramento, however, came surging back with a 7-0 run to start the final quarter and only a handful of points separated the two teams in the waning seconds. Curry led the Warriors' scoring with 32 points while Klay Thompson added 26, including four three-pointers, and Jordan Poole had 22. Andrew Wiggins added 18 points while Draymond Green, returning after suspension, had 12 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists off the bench. Fox produced a dazzling performance for Sacramento with 38 points while Keegan Murray added 23 and Monk 16. The Kings host game five on Wednesday. Knicks almost there In New York, Jalen Brunson drained five three-pointers on the way to 29 points for the Knicks, who again electrified Madison Square Garden. With just one win from three more games the Knicks can advance past the first round for the first time since 2013. New York led by as many as 15 on the way to a nine-point halftime lead. A big third quarter saw the Cavs sneak into a narrow lead before a sustained Knicks rally in the fourth. Brunson was one of four players in double figures with R.J. Barrett providing offensive support with 26 points. Darius Garland led Cleveland 23 points but Donovan Mitchell had a game to forget after finishing with just 11 points -- only two in the second half. The Cavs will try to extend the series when they host game five on Wednesday. The Celtics can wrap up their series at home on Tuesday after bouncing back from a disappointing game-three defeat with a convincing victory in Atlanta. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown scored 31 points apiece for the Celtics, each delivering a dunk in the final minute as the Celtics thwarted the Hawks' final rally bid. Hawks star Trae Young finished with a game-high 35 points and handed out 14 assists. But Boston stepped up their defensive intensity and had an answer for every Atlanta run, never trailing after the first quarter. 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: Curry guides Warriors to win over Kings; Knicks and Celtics take 3-1 lead

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry almost costed his team Game 4 against the Sacramento Kings as he called out a timeout in the fourth quarter which the Warriors didn't have.

Curry made the call for a timeout with the Warriors barely hanging on a five-point lead as the box-score read 126-121. With 42.4 remaining on the clock in the fourth quarter, Curry's call for the timeout resulted in a technical foul which gave the Kings a crucial possession. Have a look at the video here:

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Steph Curry pulled a Chris Webber and called a timeout for the Warriors <a href="https://t.co/psJJgacaq7">pic.twitter.com/psJJgacaq7</a>
— Oh no he didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) <a href="https://twitter.com/ohnohedidnt24/status/1650261180043214850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Sacramento's Malik Monk then made the free throw as the Kings reduced the deficit to four points and retained the possession. De'Aaron Fox then stepped up big time, first with the game-high 38 points then with a clutch three-pointer in the final seconds of the game as the score became 126-125.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-timberwolves-beat-nuggets-in-ot-in-game-4-to-keep-round-1-series-alive-585586">Timberwolves beat Nuggets in OT in Game 4 to keep Round 1 series alive</a>

Kings' Harrison Barnes, however, missed a game-winning shot for three points as the Warriors won the game, barely though, and equaled the seven-game Round 1 series at 2-2.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr although, took the responsibility for Curry's mental lapse, saying he should have told the guys that 'we don't anymore timeouts left.'

"As we're exiting the huddle, that's on me, I've got to remind the guys we're out of timeouts," Kerr said. "I didn't say that, so Steph wasn't aware," he added.

Notably, the Warriors had lost their last timeout two minutes before Curry called out for it when they challenged a foul call on their center Kevin Looney. The Golden State had lost both, the challenge and their final timeout.

Nonetheless, the Warriors went on to win the game and Curry scored 32 points. Apart from him, Klay Thompson also dropped 26 points while Jordan Poole scored 22.

For the Kings, De'Aaron Fox dropped 38 and Keegan Murray scored 23. The next game of the series is scheduled to played on Wednesday in Sacramento.

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Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry almost costed his team Game 4 against the Sacramento Kings as he called out a timeout in the fourth quarter which the Warriors didn't have.

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry almost costed his team Game 4 against the Sacramento Kings as he called out a timeout in the fourth quarter which the Warriors didn't have. Curry made the call for a timeout with the Warriors barely hanging on a five-point lead as the box-score read 126-121. With 42.4 remaining on the clock in the fourth quarter, Curry's call for the timeout resulted in a technical foul which gave the Kings a crucial possession. Have a look at the video here: Steph Curry pulled a Chris Webber and called a timeout for the Warriors pic.twitter.com/psJJgacaq7 — Oh no he didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) April 23, 2023 × Sacramento's Malik Monk then made the free throw as the Kings reduced the deficit to four points and retained the possession. De'Aaron Fox then stepped up big time, first with the game-high 38 points then with a clutch three-pointer in the final seconds of the game as the score became 126-125. Also Read: Timberwolves beat Nuggets in OT in Game 4 to keep Round 1 series alive Kings' Harrison Barnes, however, missed a game-winning shot for three points as the Warriors won the game, barely though, and equaled the seven-game Round 1 series at 2-2. Warriors coach Steve Kerr although, took the responsibility for Curry's mental lapse, saying he should have told the guys that 'we don't anymore timeouts left.' "As we're exiting the huddle, that's on me, I've got to remind the guys we're out of timeouts," Kerr said. "I didn't say that, so Steph wasn't aware," he added. Notably, the Warriors had lost their last timeout two minutes before Curry called out for it when they challenged a foul call on their center Kevin Looney. The Golden State had lost both, the challenge and their final timeout. Nonetheless, the Warriors went on to win the game and Curry scored 32 points. Apart from him, Klay Thompson also dropped 26 points while Jordan Poole scored 22. For the Kings, De'Aaron Fox dropped 38 and Keegan Murray scored 23. The next game of the series is scheduled to played on Wednesday in Sacramento. 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: Warriors' Steph Curry makes COSTLY timeout call vs Kings in Game 4 - WATCH

Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 and saved their season with an overtime win. The seven-game series stands at 3-1 in Nuggets' favour as of now.

The Wolves came into the game with the season on line and played with their hearts out as they outscored the Nuggets in two of the four quarters apart from the overtime. The first quarter, however, was a close one with Minnesota scoring 23 against the Nuggets' 22.

In the second quarter, the Wolves tried be more attacking, but Denver put them on a leash, scoring 30 against their 25. In the process, the Nuggets not only erased the one-point deficit but also gained a four-point lead.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-curry-guides-warriors-to-win-over-kings-knicks-and-celtics-take-3-1-lead-585522">Curry guides Warriors to win over Kings; Knicks and Celtics take 3-1 lead</a>

The Timberwolves bounced back in the third quarter and did so in some style. Minnesota scored game-high 32 in the first quarter after half-time while the Nuggets could just manage 22. The game was hanging in balance with the box-score reading 80-74 in the Wolves' favour.

In the fourth quarter, both teams seem have to run out of steam with a total of 38 points being scored. The Wolves' would have won the game then and there only but the Nuggets persevered and scored six points more than Minnesota - exactly same as the deficit they were staring at before the beginning of the fourth quarter.

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Anthony Edwards shines in the <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Timberwolves</a> Game 4 win ✨ 
 
34 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST, 3 BLK, 2 STL, 5 3PM 
 
MIN/DEN Game 5: Tuesday, 9pm/et, NBA TV <a href="https://t.co/meOJfFhgIx">pic.twitter.com/meOJfFhgIx</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1650365041588224000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Wolves actually let the game slip away from their claws as the Nuggets scored all of final 12 points in the fourth quarter, taking the game into the overtime.

In the OT, however, Minnesota was the better team as they scored 18 points against Denver's 12 and won the game 114-108. With the win, Minnesota gave them another day to survive but they'd have to win all the remaining games in order to qualify for the next round of the NBA Playoffs. Denver on the other hand, require just one more win in the next three games to move into the next round.

In terms of personal scoring, Wolves guard Anthony Edwards scored 34 points while Mike Conley Jr. managed 19. Minnesota's star forward Karl-Anthony Towns also scored 17 points. For Nuggets, Nikola Jokic scored his playoff career-high 43 points along with 11 rebounds and six assists. Jamal Murray also chipped in with 19 points but all in all, Minnesota turned out to be a better team in the end.

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Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 and saved their season with an overtime win. The seven-game series stands at 3-1 in Nuggets' favour as of now.

Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 and saved their season with an overtime win. The seven-game series stands at 3-1 in Nuggets' favour as of now. The Wolves came into the game with the season on line and played with their hearts out as they outscored the Nuggets in two of the four quarters apart from the overtime. The first quarter, however, was a close one with Minnesota scoring 23 against the Nuggets' 22. In the second quarter, the Wolves tried be more attacking, but Denver put them on a leash, scoring 30 against their 25. In the process, the Nuggets not only erased the one-point deficit but also gained a four-point lead. Also Read: Curry guides Warriors to win over Kings; Knicks and Celtics take 3-1 lead The Timberwolves bounced back in the third quarter and did so in some style. Minnesota scored game-high 32 in the first quarter after half-time while the Nuggets could just manage 22. The game was hanging in balance with the box-score reading 80-74 in the Wolves' favour. In the fourth quarter, both teams seem have to run out of steam with a total of 38 points being scored. The Wolves' would have won the game then and there only but the Nuggets persevered and scored six points more than Minnesota - exactly same as the deficit they were staring at before the beginning of the fourth quarter. Anthony Edwards shines in the @Timberwolves Game 4 win ✨ 34 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST, 3 BLK, 2 STL, 5 3PM MIN/DEN Game 5: Tuesday, 9pm/et, NBA TV pic.twitter.com/meOJfFhgIx — NBA (@NBA) April 24, 2023 × The Wolves actually let the game slip away from their claws as the Nuggets scored all of final 12 points in the fourth quarter, taking the game into the overtime. In the OT, however, Minnesota was the better team as they scored 18 points against Denver's 12 and won the game 114-108. With the win, Minnesota gave them another day to survive but they'd have to win all the remaining games in order to qualify for the next round of the NBA Playoffs. Denver on the other hand, require just one more win in the next three games to move into the next round. In terms of personal scoring, Wolves guard Anthony Edwards scored 34 points while Mike Conley Jr. managed 19. Minnesota's star forward Karl-Anthony Towns also scored 17 points. For Nuggets, Nikola Jokic scored his playoff career-high 43 points along with 11 rebounds and six assists. Jamal Murray also chipped in with 19 points but all in all, Minnesota turned out to be a better team in the end. 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: Timberwolves beat Nuggets in OT in Game 4 to keep Round 1 series alive

The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second round berth with victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Sixers advanced to an Eastern Conference semi-final showdown against either Boston or Atlanta with a dominant second-half display to seal a 96-88 victory in Brooklyn.

The Sixers trailed by 11 points early in the third quarter but transformed the contest with an 18-4 run to take the lead before closing out victory with a fourth-quarter rally.

The Sixers' win was all the more impressive given the absence of star center Embiid, who suffered a right knee sprain in Thursday's 102-97 victory in game three.

Embiid led the NBA with 33.1 points a game and is a finalist for the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.

With Embiid out, Paul Reed stepped in to fill the void and finished with 10 points and 15 rebounds.

Tobias Harris led the scoring for Philadelphia with 25 points and 12 rebounds, while De'Anthony Melton came off the bench to produce 15 points and lead the fourth-quarter rally.

Harris said the Sixers had been determined to use Embiid's absence as a motivator.

"He's the MVP. And when we heard he wasn't playing, I think it was an opportunity for everybody else to really step up and understand that we've got to get a win without the big fella," Harris told the TNT television network after the win.

"For us to come out here and get this victory, it feels great for the whole group.

"The whole group came together today. It's a great win for us and a great way to sweep the series."&nbsp;

Asked what his message to the injured Embiid would be, Harris replied: "Hurry up and get your ass back out here."

The 4-0 series victory was Philadelphia's first playoff sweep since 1991.

Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn's scoring with 20 points while Nic Claxton had 19 points with 12 rebounds.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-mainz-stun-bayern-munich-3-1-to-hand-major-jolt-in-title-race-585167">Bundesliga: Mainz stun Bayern Munich 3-1 to hand major jolt in title race</a>

<h2>Suns on the brink</h2>

In Los Angeles, Kevin Durant finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help Phoenix take a 3-1 series lead over the Clippers with a 112-100 victory.

Devin Booker plundered 30 points and veteran Chris Paul added 19 in a late burst of scoring as Phoenix bagged their second straight win in Los Angeles in the best-of-seven series.

It means the Suns need just one more win to book their place in the Western Conference semi-finals, with game five set for Phoenix on Tuesday.

The Clippers' hopes of squaring the series had been dealt a blow by the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who joined Paul George on the injured list.

In their absence Russell Westbrook produced one of his best performances for the Clippers with a 37-point display but ultimately it was not enough as the greater depth of the Suns line-up proved too much.

"I'm in a good place and I'm enjoying playing ball," Durant said after the win.

"I've been out a few months this season, and I'm just happy I'm out here where the ball is."

In later playoff games on Saturday, the Milwaukee Bucks travel to Miami looking for a win on the road over the Heat with the best-of-seven series finely balanced at 1-1.

Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sat out game two after suffering a back injury in game one, was listed as questionable for Milwaukee.

In the late game, the Memphis Grizzlies travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers with their series knotted at one game apiece.

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The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second round berth with victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second round berth with victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. The Sixers advanced to an Eastern Conference semi-final showdown against either Boston or Atlanta with a dominant second-half display to seal a 96-88 victory in Brooklyn. The Sixers trailed by 11 points early in the third quarter but transformed the contest with an 18-4 run to take the lead before closing out victory with a fourth-quarter rally. The Sixers' win was all the more impressive given the absence of star center Embiid, who suffered a right knee sprain in Thursday's 102-97 victory in game three. Embiid led the NBA with 33.1 points a game and is a finalist for the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. With Embiid out, Paul Reed stepped in to fill the void and finished with 10 points and 15 rebounds. Tobias Harris led the scoring for Philadelphia with 25 points and 12 rebounds, while De'Anthony Melton came off the bench to produce 15 points and lead the fourth-quarter rally. Harris said the Sixers had been determined to use Embiid's absence as a motivator. "He's the MVP. And when we heard he wasn't playing, I think it was an opportunity for everybody else to really step up and understand that we've got to get a win without the big fella," Harris told the TNT television network after the win. "For us to come out here and get this victory, it feels great for the whole group. "The whole group came together today. It's a great win for us and a great way to sweep the series." Asked what his message to the injured Embiid would be, Harris replied: "Hurry up and get your ass back out here." The 4-0 series victory was Philadelphia's first playoff sweep since 1991. Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn's scoring with 20 points while Nic Claxton had 19 points with 12 rebounds. ALSO READ | Bundesliga: Mainz stun Bayern Munich 3-1 to hand major jolt in title race Suns on the brink In Los Angeles, Kevin Durant finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help Phoenix take a 3-1 series lead over the Clippers with a 112-100 victory. Devin Booker plundered 30 points and veteran Chris Paul added 19 in a late burst of scoring as Phoenix bagged their second straight win in Los Angeles in the best-of-seven series. It means the Suns need just one more win to book their place in the Western Conference semi-finals, with game five set for Phoenix on Tuesday. The Clippers' hopes of squaring the series had been dealt a blow by the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who joined Paul George on the injured list. In their absence Russell Westbrook produced one of his best performances for the Clippers with a 37-point display but ultimately it was not enough as the greater depth of the Suns line-up proved too much. "I'm in a good place and I'm enjoying playing ball," Durant said after the win. "I've been out a few months this season, and I'm just happy I'm out here where the ball is." In later playoff games on Saturday, the Milwaukee Bucks travel to Miami looking for a win on the road over the Heat with the best-of-seven series finely balanced at 1-1. Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sat out game two after suffering a back injury in game one, was listed as questionable for Milwaukee. In the late game, the Memphis Grizzlies travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers with their series knotted at one game apiece. 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 advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed

Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was ejected for hitting Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James in the groin during the Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1.

The incident happened in the second half with 11:43 left on the clock in the third quarter and the Lakers leading 53-37 over the Grizzlies. In the video making rounds on the internet, James can be seen taking the ball up court when Brook hit him in the groin area with the back of his hand.

James immediately fell on the ground in pain and Brooks got a flagrant foul 2 after the review from the officials, resulting in ejection automatically. The crowd at Crypto.com arena cheered on as Brooks left the court. Have a look at the video of the incident here:

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Dillon Brooks has been ejected after hitting LeBron James in the groin <a href="https://t.co/SPTRq6heO4">pic.twitter.com/SPTRq6heO4</a>
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This happened as Brooks had called LeBron 'old' after Game 2 between the two teams. Nonetheless, the Lakers went on to win the game 111-101 and took a 2-1 lead in the seven-game series of Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs 2023.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-76ers-vs-nets-suns-vs-clippers-heat-vs-bucks-lakers-vs-grizzlies-full-scores-and-results-585286">NBA Playoffs 2023: 76ers vs Nets, Suns vs Clippers, Heat vs Bucks, Lakers vs Grizzlies full scores and results</a>

As for the game, Grizzlies lost it in the first quarter itself, scoring 9 against Los Angeles' 35. Memphis, however, fought well in the second and fourth quarter, scoring 28 and 33 against the Lakers' 18 and 23 but the four point advantage in the third quarter, coupled with 26 in the first, was too much to overcome for them. The Lakers scored 35 against the Grizzlies 31 in the third quarter.

For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron James managed 25 points, nine rebounds and five assists. As for Grizzlies, Ja Morant did most of the scoring, dropping a bombshell of 45 but could not help his team win. Morant, at one point, was so dominant that the scored straight 22 points for the Grizzlies. The effort, while a monumental one, was in vain.

Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was ejected for hitting Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James in the groin during the Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1.

Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was ejected for hitting Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James in the groin during the Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1. The incident happened in the second half with 11:43 left on the clock in the third quarter and the Lakers leading 53-37 over the Grizzlies. In the video making rounds on the internet, James can be seen taking the ball up court when Brook hit him in the groin area with the back of his hand. James immediately fell on the ground in pain and Brooks got a flagrant foul 2 after the review from the officials, resulting in ejection automatically. The crowd at Crypto.com arena cheered on as Brooks left the court. Have a look at the video of the incident here: Dillon Brooks has been ejected after hitting LeBron James in the groin pic.twitter.com/SPTRq6heO4 — Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) April 23, 2023 × This happened as Brooks had called LeBron 'old' after Game 2 between the two teams. Nonetheless, the Lakers went on to win the game 111-101 and took a 2-1 lead in the seven-game series of Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs 2023. Also Read: NBA Playoffs 2023: 76ers vs Nets, Suns vs Clippers, Heat vs Bucks, Lakers vs Grizzlies full scores and results As for the game, Grizzlies lost it in the first quarter itself, scoring 9 against Los Angeles' 35. Memphis, however, fought well in the second and fourth quarter, scoring 28 and 33 against the Lakers' 18 and 23 but the four point advantage in the third quarter, coupled with 26 in the first, was too much to overcome for them. The Lakers scored 35 against the Grizzlies 31 in the third quarter. For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron James managed 25 points, nine rebounds and five assists. As for Grizzlies, Ja Morant did most of the scoring, dropping a bombshell of 45 but could not help his team win. Morant, at one point, was so dominant that the scored straight 22 points for the Grizzlies. The effort, while a monumental one, was in vain.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks hits Lakers' LeBron James in groin in Game 3, gets ejected - WATCH

The Philadelphia 76ers ease past the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 with the fourth victory on the trot. In other games, the Phoenix Suns took a 3-1 lead over the Los Angeles Clippers while the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers took the 2-1 lead over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies, respectively.

Here are the full recaps, scores and results of all the games:

Philadelphia 76ers vs Brooklyn Nets

It was the last chance of the Nets to stay in the hunt for the next round of NBA Playoffs and they did start well, taking an eight-point lead till the half-time. The 76ers, however, had other plans as they not only erased the deficit but even took a three-point lead by the end of the third quarter as they outscored the Nets 26-15. All of this without Joel Embiid!

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25 PTS | 12 REB 
 
it really was Tobi time. ⏰ 
 
💪 hydrated by <a href="https://twitter.com/BioSteelSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BioSteelSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/P7k0XBi9WD">pic.twitter.com/P7k0XBi9WD</a>
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) <a href="https://twitter.com/sixers/status/1649864398192918528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The fourth quarter was just the last nail in the coffin for the Nets as they could score only 25 against the Sixers' 30 and Philly won the game 96-88 and the series 4-0.

For the Nets, Spencer Dinwiddie scored 20 points while Nic Claxton and Mikal Bridges chipped in with 19 and 17, respectively. For the 76ers, Tobias Harris top scored with 25 points and 12 rebounds while James Harden dropped in 17.

Phoenix Suns vs Los Angeles Clippers

After losing the first game of the series against the Clippers, the Suns seem to have found their light back as they beat the Los Angeles 112-100 in the Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead. The Clippers, however, had the early advantage as the took a seven point in the first quarter, outscoring the Suns 30-23.

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Finding the open man. <a href="https://t.co/C4HXa1E8NM">pic.twitter.com/C4HXa1E8NM</a>
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1649889929810571264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Things changed in the second quarter as the Sun erased the deficit and took one point lead over the Clippers. The third quarter was the most fiercely fought one as both the teams scored in excess of 30 but Phoenix stayed on the top and extended their lead to five points.

The Clippers were outplayed completed in the last quarter 29-22 as they lost the game. For Phoenix, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker scored 31 and 30 points, respectively. For the Clippers, Russell Westbrook scored game-high 37 points but in vain.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-sixers-advance-after-nets-sweep-suns-on-brink-as-clippers-downed-585233">Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed</a>

Miami Heat vs Milwaukee Bucks

In a surprising turn of events, the Miami Heat beat the top-seed Milwaukee Bucks 121-99 in Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 to take a 2-1 lead. Even if Giannis Antetokounmpo's absence is a huge blow for the Bucks, no credit can be taken away from the Heat to turn around their fortunes.

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30 points in 3 quarters for Jimmy ☕️ <a href="https://t.co/3Ro8Jh1fCv">pic.twitter.com/3Ro8Jh1fCv</a>
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiamiHEAT/status/1649963299931553792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Miami were on top of Milwaukee right from the start, outscoring them in each quarter 29-21, 37-32, 28-26, and 27-20 with the Bucks having no place to hide.

For the Heat, Jimmy Butler dropped 30 and Duncan Robinson scored 20. For the Bucks, Khris Middleton scored 23 and Jrue Holiday scored 19, clearly not enough. The Bucks must find a way soon to deal with the Heat in the next game or two else they'll be out of the playoffs real soon.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies&nbsp;

The Showtime Lakers are back and now. From scrapping to get a place into the playoffs, they now have a 2-1 lead over the Grizzlies, standing just two games away from the next round of the NBA Playoffs.

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Fifteen in the third frame for AD 🗣 <a href="https://t.co/JFMSFVkTR2">pic.twitter.com/JFMSFVkTR2</a>
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1649990344212385793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Such was the dominance of the Lakers as the Grizzlies lost the game in the first quarter itself, scoring 9 against Los Angeles' 35. Memphis, however, fought well in the second and fourth quarter, scoring 28 and 33 against the Lakers' 18 and 23 but the four point advantage in the third quarter, coupled with 26 in the first, was too much to overcome for them.

For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron James managed 25. As for Grizzlies, Ja Morant did most of the scoring, dropping a bombshell of 45 but could not help his team win.&nbsp;

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The Philadelphia 76ers ease past the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 with the fourth victory on the trot. In other games, the Phoenix Suns took a 3-1 lead over the Los Angeles Clippers while the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers took the 2-1 lead over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies, respectively.

The Philadelphia 76ers ease past the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 with the fourth victory on the trot. In other games, the Phoenix Suns took a 3-1 lead over the Los Angeles Clippers while the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers took the 2-1 lead over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies, respectively. Here are the full recaps, scores and results of all the games: Philadelphia 76ers vs Brooklyn Nets It was the last chance of the Nets to stay in the hunt for the next round of NBA Playoffs and they did start well, taking an eight-point lead till the half-time. The 76ers, however, had other plans as they not only erased the deficit but even took a three-point lead by the end of the third quarter as they outscored the Nets 26-15. All of this without Joel Embiid! 25 PTS | 12 REB it really was Tobi time. ⏰ 💪 hydrated by @BioSteelSports pic.twitter.com/P7k0XBi9WD — Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) April 22, 2023 × The fourth quarter was just the last nail in the coffin for the Nets as they could score only 25 against the Sixers' 30 and Philly won the game 96-88 and the series 4-0. For the Nets, Spencer Dinwiddie scored 20 points while Nic Claxton and Mikal Bridges chipped in with 19 and 17, respectively. For the 76ers, Tobias Harris top scored with 25 points and 12 rebounds while James Harden dropped in 17. Phoenix Suns vs Los Angeles Clippers After losing the first game of the series against the Clippers, the Suns seem to have found their light back as they beat the Los Angeles 112-100 in the Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead. The Clippers, however, had the early advantage as the took a seven point in the first quarter, outscoring the Suns 30-23. Finding the open man. pic.twitter.com/C4HXa1E8NM — Phoenix Suns (@Suns) April 22, 2023 × Things changed in the second quarter as the Sun erased the deficit and took one point lead over the Clippers. The third quarter was the most fiercely fought one as both the teams scored in excess of 30 but Phoenix stayed on the top and extended their lead to five points. The Clippers were outplayed completed in the last quarter 29-22 as they lost the game. For Phoenix, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker scored 31 and 30 points, respectively. For the Clippers, Russell Westbrook scored game-high 37 points but in vain. Also Read: Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed Miami Heat vs Milwaukee Bucks In a surprising turn of events, the Miami Heat beat the top-seed Milwaukee Bucks 121-99 in Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 to take a 2-1 lead. Even if Giannis Antetokounmpo's absence is a huge blow for the Bucks, no credit can be taken away from the Heat to turn around their fortunes. 30 points in 3 quarters for Jimmy ☕️ pic.twitter.com/3Ro8Jh1fCv — Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) April 23, 2023 × Miami were on top of Milwaukee right from the start, outscoring them in each quarter 29-21, 37-32, 28-26, and 27-20 with the Bucks having no place to hide. For the Heat, Jimmy Butler dropped 30 and Duncan Robinson scored 20. For the Bucks, Khris Middleton scored 23 and Jrue Holiday scored 19, clearly not enough. The Bucks must find a way soon to deal with the Heat in the next game or two else they'll be out of the playoffs real soon. Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies The Showtime Lakers are back and now. From scrapping to get a place into the playoffs, they now have a 2-1 lead over the Grizzlies, standing just two games away from the next round of the NBA Playoffs. Fifteen in the third frame for AD 🗣 pic.twitter.com/JFMSFVkTR2 — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 23, 2023 × Such was the dominance of the Lakers as the Grizzlies lost the game in the first quarter itself, scoring 9 against Los Angeles' 35. Memphis, however, fought well in the second and fourth quarter, scoring 28 and 33 against the Lakers' 18 and 23 but the four point advantage in the third quarter, coupled with 26 in the first, was too much to overcome for them. For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron James managed 25. As for Grizzlies, Ja Morant did most of the scoring, dropping a bombshell of 45 but could not help his team win. 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: 76ers vs Nets, Suns vs Clippers, Heat vs Bucks, Lakers vs Grizzlies full scores and results

The NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 is in full swing with the Hawks making a comeback against the Celtics in Game 3 while the Denver Nuggets showing no signs of slowdown. The Nuggets won Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves and in the Knicks vs the Cavaliers, New York took a 2-1 lead.

The next game would be the last for the Timberwolves if they don't win it but the Hawks have given themselves a breather after winning Game 3. The Knicks vs Cavs series, however, is turning out to be a see-saw affair with each team winning the alternative game so far. Here are the full recap, scores and results of all the games:

<h3>Celtics vs Hawks</h3>

The Celtics started out the game in full flow as they took a lead of four points at the end of first quarter with the scoreboard reading 37-33 in their favour. The Hawks, however, came back strongly in the second quarter as they not only erased the four-point deficit but took a seven points lead as well.

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Trae Young put up 32 points with 9 assists to help Atlanta win Game 3! This tough late-game floater is tonight's X-Factor Moment 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HisenseXFactor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HisenseXFactor</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Hisense_USA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hisense_USA</a> <a href="https://t.co/W65wlh8wp8">pic.twitter.com/W65wlh8wp8</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1649640866167013376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The third quarter was equal with both the teams scoring 26 points each but Boston was under pressure clearly for not being able to cut down the deficit. The fourth quarter tilted in the Hawks' favor with a score of 30-29 and Atlanta eventually won the game 130-122.

For the Hawks, Trae Young scored magnificent 32 points while Dejounte Murray ably helped him with 25. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum top scored with 29 points while Marcus Smart dropped 24. Even though the Celtics lost Game 3, they still hold a 2-1 lead in the seven-game series.

<h3>Knicks vs Cavaliers</h3>

Game 3 of NBA Playoffs Round 1 lived up to its billing and the Knicks didn't disappoint their fans with the win against the Cavaliers. The series stands at 2-1 with each team winning alternatively. Going by the trend, New York should win it in Game 7 but that's too far as of now.&nbsp;

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Jalen Brunson leads the <a href="https://twitter.com/nyknicks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nyknicks</a> to victory in Game 3 with 21 PTS, 6 AST, and 2 STL! 
 
🏀 CLE/NYK Game 4, Sunday, 1pm/et, ABC <a href="https://t.co/rvtL0Z7MOq">pic.twitter.com/rvtL0Z7MOq</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1649642239281475584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Coming to the game, the first quarter stood equal with both the teams scoring just 17 points each. Come second quarter, the Knicks ran away, scoring 13 more than the Cavs' 15. Cleveland then could never erase the deficit as the second half saw them scoring four and three points less in the third and fourth quarter, respectively against the Knicks' 27 in each quarter.

For New York, Jalen Brunson scored 21 points while Josh Hart chipped in with 13 as the Knicks beat the Cavs 99-79. For Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell top scored in the game with 22 points but in vain.

<h3>Nuggets vs Timberwolves</h3>

The Denver Nuggets are looking like a team with a mission, leaving nothing to a chance. Currently, they have a 3-0 lead in the seven-game series against the Timberwolves and the Wolves are just looking very very timid. The game, however, started on a promising note with both the teams scoring 28 points each. The same scenario was in third quarter as well with both the teams scoring 33 points each.

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Anthony Edwards shines in Game 3 ✨ 
 
36 PTS, 7 REB, 5 AST, 3 STL 
 
DEN/MIN Game 4, Sunday, 9:30pm/et, TNT <a href="https://t.co/ouSbSmfPxt">pic.twitter.com/ouSbSmfPxt</a>
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In the second and fourth quarter, though, the Nuggets outscored the Wolves 33-27 and 26-33, respectively and won the game 120-111. For Denver, Michael Porter Jr. scored 25 points while Nikola Jokic managed&nbsp; a triple-double 20 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds - his seventh in the playoffs. For Minnesota, Anthony Edwards scored 36 points and Karl-Anthony Towns scored 27.

The next game would be the last for the Wolves if they don't win it and if they do, well, they'd still have to win all of the games in Round 1 to make it to the next round.

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The NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 is in full swing with the Hawks making a comeback against the Celtics in Game 3 while the Denver Nuggets showing no signs of slowdown.

The NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 is in full swing with the Hawks making a comeback against the Celtics in Game 3 while the Denver Nuggets showing no signs of slowdown. The Nuggets won Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves and in the Knicks vs the Cavaliers, New York took a 2-1 lead. The next game would be the last for the Timberwolves if they don't win it but the Hawks have given themselves a breather after winning Game 3. The Knicks vs Cavs series, however, is turning out to be a see-saw affair with each team winning the alternative game so far. Here are the full recap, scores and results of all the games: Celtics vs Hawks The Celtics started out the game in full flow as they took a lead of four points at the end of first quarter with the scoreboard reading 37-33 in their favour. The Hawks, however, came back strongly in the second quarter as they not only erased the four-point deficit but took a seven points lead as well. Trae Young put up 32 points with 9 assists to help Atlanta win Game 3! This tough late-game floater is tonight's X-Factor Moment 👀#HisenseXFactor | @Hisense_USA pic.twitter.com/W65wlh8wp8 — NBA (@NBA) April 22, 2023 × The third quarter was equal with both the teams scoring 26 points each but Boston was under pressure clearly for not being able to cut down the deficit. The fourth quarter tilted in the Hawks' favor with a score of 30-29 and Atlanta eventually won the game 130-122. For the Hawks, Trae Young scored magnificent 32 points while Dejounte Murray ably helped him with 25. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum top scored with 29 points while Marcus Smart dropped 24. Even though the Celtics lost Game 3, they still hold a 2-1 lead in the seven-game series. Knicks vs Cavaliers Game 3 of NBA Playoffs Round 1 lived up to its billing and the Knicks didn't disappoint their fans with the win against the Cavaliers. The series stands at 2-1 with each team winning alternatively. Going by the trend, New York should win it in Game 7 but that's too far as of now. Jalen Brunson leads the @nyknicks to victory in Game 3 with 21 PTS, 6 AST, and 2 STL! 🏀 CLE/NYK Game 4, Sunday, 1pm/et, ABC pic.twitter.com/rvtL0Z7MOq — NBA (@NBA) April 22, 2023 × Coming to the game, the first quarter stood equal with both the teams scoring just 17 points each. Come second quarter, the Knicks ran away, scoring 13 more than the Cavs' 15. Cleveland then could never erase the deficit as the second half saw them scoring four and three points less in the third and fourth quarter, respectively against the Knicks' 27 in each quarter. For New York, Jalen Brunson scored 21 points while Josh Hart chipped in with 13 as the Knicks beat the Cavs 99-79. For Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell top scored in the game with 22 points but in vain. Nuggets vs Timberwolves The Denver Nuggets are looking like a team with a mission, leaving nothing to a chance. Currently, they have a 3-0 lead in the seven-game series against the Timberwolves and the Wolves are just looking very very timid. The game, however, started on a promising note with both the teams scoring 28 points each. The same scenario was in third quarter as well with both the teams scoring 33 points each. Anthony Edwards shines in Game 3 ✨ 36 PTS, 7 REB, 5 AST, 3 STL DEN/MIN Game 4, Sunday, 9:30pm/et, TNT pic.twitter.com/ouSbSmfPxt — NBA (@NBA) April 22, 2023 × In the second and fourth quarter, though, the Nuggets outscored the Wolves 33-27 and 26-33, respectively and won the game 120-111. For Denver, Michael Porter Jr. scored 25 points while Nikola Jokic managed a triple-double 20 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds - his seventh in the playoffs. For Minnesota, Anthony Edwards scored 36 points and Karl-Anthony Towns scored 27. The next game would be the last for the Wolves if they don't win it and if they do, well, they'd still have to win all of the games in Round 1 to make it to the next round. 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: Celtics vs Hawks, Knicks vs Cavs, Nuggets vs Wolves highlights, scores, results and recap

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

The Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies bounced back to level their respective NBA playoff series' with crucial victories Wednesday, as Jamal Murray delivered a 40-point masterpiece to give the Denver Nuggets a commanding 2-0 lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Top seeds Milwaukee shrugged off the injury absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo to thrash the Miami Heat 138-122 to tie their best-of-seven Eastern Conference series at 1-1.

In the Western Conference playoffs, Memphis also overcame the loss of a star player -- Ja Morant -- before grinding out an attritional 103-93 win over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-pulls-out-of-madrid-open-shares-statement-on-injury-roland-garros-participation-doubtful-584376">Rafael Nadal pulls out of Madrid Open, shares statement on injury; Roland Garros participation doubtful</a>

Arguably the performance of the night however came in Denver, as the Nuggets' Murray poured in 40 points in a 122-113 victory over the Timberwolves. Denver, the No.1 seeds in the West, now lead the series 2-0.

It was the latest milestone in Murray's long road back from a serious knee injury.

The 26-year-old point guard missed the entirety of the 2021-2022 campaign after undergoing surgery to repair torn knee ligaments in April 2021.

Denver looked to be cruising to victory after leading 64-49 at half-time before a 40-point Minnesota third quarter turned the game on its head to leave the Timberwolves up by two.

But Murray and Michael Porter Jr. combined for 23 fourth-quarter points to seal Denver's victory.

"It was a passionate, heartfelt performance," Denver coach Michael Malone said of Murray's display. "Just the fact that he's missed the last two postseasons, just to have him back, and playing at that level -- Jamal overall was terrific."

Murray was almost outshone by Minnesota's Anthony Edwards, who finished with 41 points in a losing effort.

In other gamesy, Xavier Tillman scored 22 points and pulled down 18 rebounds in the Grizzlies' win over the Lakers.

A bruising game saw the Lakers' Anthony Davis suffer a cut on his right eyelid while James was drawn into a verbal back and forth with Memphis's Dillon Brooks.

The Grizzlies led by as many as 16 points on the way to a 59-44 halftime lead as the harried Lakers failed to find a way to get their offense firing.

Davis blocked five shots in the first half but connected on just one of nine shot attempts. He finished with 13 points on four-of-14 shooting.

James led all scorers with 28 points and Japan's Rui Hachimura added 20 to become the first Laker to score 20 points off the bench in back-to-back playoff games since Magic Johnson in 1996.

But unlike in game one, there would be no late resurgence from the Lakers, the Grizzlies absorbing the Lakers' second-half push.

Jaren Jackson Jr., the newly named NBA Defensive Player of the Year, scored 18 points, Desmond Bane added 17 and Brooks chipped in 12. Tyus Jones, starting in place of Morant, added 10 and eight assists.

Tillman said the Grizzlies will summon a "road-warrior mentality" for game three of the best-of-seven series in Los Angeles on Saturday.

Brooks made no apology for trash-talking James.

"I don't care -- he's old," Brooks said of the 38-year-old James. "I poke bears."

- No Giannis, no problem -

The Milwaukee Bucks barely noticed the injury absence of Greek star Antetokounmpo as they crushed the Miami Heat to level their series at one game apiece.

With the talismanic Antetokounmpo missing after suffering a lower-back contusion in Sunday's game-one defeat, the Bucks delivered a balanced offensive effort to overwhelm Miami.

The Bucks led from early in the first quarter and never looked back, sprinting out of reach after outscoring Miami 45-27 in the second quarter to lead by a whopping 81-55 at half-time.

Milwaukee kept the scoring up in the third quarter, extending their lead to 36 points at one stage to make victory a formality.

Brook Lopez led the way for Milwaukee with 25 points while Jrue Holiday added 24 points as no fewer than seven Bucks players finished in double figures.

"All season long guys have been in and out of the line-up, different guys have been stepping up and having those moments," said the Bucks' Bobby Portis, who finished with 13 points, 15 rebounds and five assists.

"Playoffs is all about moments, and we've got guys capable of having those moments. We've just got to keep it rolling," Portis added.

Milwaukee did severe damage from outside the arc, shooting an astounding 25-of-49 from three-point range to tie an NBA playoff record.

Jimmy Butler led the Miami scorers with 25 points while Bam Adebayo finished with 18.

The Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies bounced back to level their respective NBA playoff series' with crucial victories Wednesday, as Jamal Murray delivered a 40-point masterpiece to give the Denver Nuggets a commanding 2-0 lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies bounced back to level their respective NBA playoff series' with crucial victories Wednesday, as Jamal Murray delivered a 40-point masterpiece to give the Denver Nuggets a commanding 2-0 lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Top seeds Milwaukee shrugged off the injury absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo to thrash the Miami Heat 138-122 to tie their best-of-seven Eastern Conference series at 1-1. In the Western Conference playoffs, Memphis also overcame the loss of a star player -- Ja Morant -- before grinding out an attritional 103-93 win over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. ALSO READ: Rafael Nadal pulls out of Madrid Open, shares statement on injury; Roland Garros participation doubtful Arguably the performance of the night however came in Denver, as the Nuggets' Murray poured in 40 points in a 122-113 victory over the Timberwolves. Denver, the No.1 seeds in the West, now lead the series 2-0. It was the latest milestone in Murray's long road back from a serious knee injury. The 26-year-old point guard missed the entirety of the 2021-2022 campaign after undergoing surgery to repair torn knee ligaments in April 2021. Denver looked to be cruising to victory after leading 64-49 at half-time before a 40-point Minnesota third quarter turned the game on its head to leave the Timberwolves up by two. But Murray and Michael Porter Jr. combined for 23 fourth-quarter points to seal Denver's victory. "It was a passionate, heartfelt performance," Denver coach Michael Malone said of Murray's display. "Just the fact that he's missed the last two postseasons, just to have him back, and playing at that level -- Jamal overall was terrific." Murray was almost outshone by Minnesota's Anthony Edwards, who finished with 41 points in a losing effort. In other gamesy, Xavier Tillman scored 22 points and pulled down 18 rebounds in the Grizzlies' win over the Lakers. A bruising game saw the Lakers' Anthony Davis suffer a cut on his right eyelid while James was drawn into a verbal back and forth with Memphis's Dillon Brooks. The Grizzlies led by as many as 16 points on the way to a 59-44 halftime lead as the harried Lakers failed to find a way to get their offense firing. Davis blocked five shots in the first half but connected on just one of nine shot attempts. He finished with 13 points on four-of-14 shooting. James led all scorers with 28 points and Japan's Rui Hachimura added 20 to become the first Laker to score 20 points off the bench in back-to-back playoff games since Magic Johnson in 1996. But unlike in game one, there would be no late resurgence from the Lakers, the Grizzlies absorbing the Lakers' second-half push. Jaren Jackson Jr., the newly named NBA Defensive Player of the Year, scored 18 points, Desmond Bane added 17 and Brooks chipped in 12. Tyus Jones, starting in place of Morant, added 10 and eight assists. Tillman said the Grizzlies will summon a "road-warrior mentality" for game three of the best-of-seven series in Los Angeles on Saturday. Brooks made no apology for trash-talking James. "I don't care -- he's old," Brooks said of the 38-year-old James. "I poke bears." - No Giannis, no problem - The Milwaukee Bucks barely noticed the injury absence of Greek star Antetokounmpo as they crushed the Miami Heat to level their series at one game apiece. With the talismanic Antetokounmpo missing after suffering a lower-back contusion in Sunday's game-one defeat, the Bucks delivered a balanced offensive effort to overwhelm Miami. The Bucks led from early in the first quarter and never looked back, sprinting out of reach after outscoring Miami 45-27 in the second quarter to lead by a whopping 81-55 at half-time. Milwaukee kept the scoring up in the third quarter, extending their lead to 36 points at one stage to make victory a formality. Brook Lopez led the way for Milwaukee with 25 points while Jrue Holiday added 24 points as no fewer than seven Bucks players finished in double figures. "All season long guys have been in and out of the line-up, different guys have been stepping up and having those moments," said the Bucks' Bobby Portis, who finished with 13 points, 15 rebounds and five assists. "Playoffs is all about moments, and we've got guys capable of having those moments. We've just got to keep it rolling," Portis added. Milwaukee did severe damage from outside the arc, shooting an astounding 25-of-49 from three-point range to tie an NBA playoff record. Jimmy Butler led the Miami scorers with 25 points while Bam Adebayo finished with 18.

NBA: Milwaukee Bucks, Memphis Grizzlies bounce back to seal wins as Denver Nuggets stun Minnesota Timberwolves

Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox was named winner of the inaugural&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Clutch Player of the Year award on Tuesday&nbsp;

The 25-year-old American received 91 of 100 possible first-place votes from a media panel after being among the nominees by league head coaches.

"It's definitely going to get added to the memorabilia room," Fox said.

Fox averaged 25.0 points, 6.1 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 1.1 steals a game and scored 194 "clutch" points -- delivering at least five points in the final five minutes of a contest with a game on the line.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-former-defensive-lineman-chris-smith-dies-at-31-584001">Former defensive lineman Chris Smith dies at 31</a>

"I always tell people you can't be afraid to fail," Fox said. "You're not going to make every shot but my teammates and my coaches, they put me in positions to succeed so the least I can do is have confidence in myself and go take big shots."

Fox has helped the Kings seize a 2-0 lead over the defending&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;champion Golden State Warriors with game three in the best-of-seven first round series set for Thursday in San Francisco.

Other finalists included Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler, who averaged 22.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.8 steals a game; and Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan, who averaged 24.5 points, 5.1 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals a game.

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Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox was named winner of the inaugural NBA Clutch Player of the Year award on Tuesday The 25-year-old American received 91 of 100 possible first-place votes from a media panel after being among the nominees by league head coaches.

Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox was named winner of the inaugural NBA Clutch Player of the Year award on Tuesday The 25-year-old American received 91 of 100 possible first-place votes from a media panel after being among the nominees by league head coaches. "It's definitely going to get added to the memorabilia room," Fox said. Fox averaged 25.0 points, 6.1 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 1.1 steals a game and scored 194 "clutch" points -- delivering at least five points in the final five minutes of a contest with a game on the line. Also Read: Former defensive lineman Chris Smith dies at 31 "I always tell people you can't be afraid to fail," Fox said. "You're not going to make every shot but my teammates and my coaches, they put me in positions to succeed so the least I can do is have confidence in myself and go take big shots." Fox has helped the Kings seize a 2-0 lead over the defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors with game three in the best-of-seven first round series set for Thursday in San Francisco. Other finalists included Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler, who averaged 22.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.8 steals a game; and Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan, who averaged 24.5 points, 5.1 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals a game. 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: Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox wins inaugural Clutch Player of the Year award

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.

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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

Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr., the NBA's leading shot blocker for a second consecutive season, was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year on Monday.

The 23-year-old American, in his fifth NBA season all spent with the Grizzlies, won the award for the first time with 56 of 100 first-place votes and 391 total points from a global media panel.

Brook Lopez of the Milwaukee Bucks was second with 309 points and 31 first-place votes while Evan Mobley of the Cleveland Cavaliers was third with 101 points.

Jackson became the second-youngest player to win the NBA top defender award after Dwight Howard in 2009.

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Jackson, whose father spent 13 seasons in the NBA and helped the San Antonio Spurs win an NBA crown in 1999, led the NBA with 3.0 blocked shots a game.

"You really put yourself second and everything that has to do with the team is first," Jackson said. "(My dad) always did that in his career... he always wanted to play winning basketball. He was thankful enough to win a championship and that's what I'm trying to do now, get one of my own."

Jackson also averaged 18.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.0 steals a contest for a Memphis club that ranked third defensively in the NBA and finished second in the Western Conference at 51-31.

"Team defense really helps us go a long way," Jackson said.

Jackson&nbsp;held opponents to an NBA-low 46.9% as the closest defender at the rim but is working to be more of a scoring threat as well.

"I'm trying to put it all together, be the best you can be, be a good all-around player," Jackson said.

"The greatest two-way players, they had to do a lot. Had to have the endurance to be on both ends. It was really my pops. He had me working on all kinds of crazy stuff in the gym."

Lopez averaged 2.5 blocked shots a game, sharing second in the NBA, as well as 15.9 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists a game.

Mobley 16.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists&nbsp;and 1.5 blocked shots a game.

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Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr., the NBA's leading shot blocker for a second consecutive season, was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year on Monday.

Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr., the NBA's leading shot blocker for a second consecutive season, was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year on Monday. The 23-year-old American, in his fifth NBA season all spent with the Grizzlies, won the award for the first time with 56 of 100 first-place votes and 391 total points from a global media panel. Brook Lopez of the Milwaukee Bucks was second with 309 points and 31 first-place votes while Evan Mobley of the Cleveland Cavaliers was third with 101 points. Jackson became the second-youngest player to win the NBA top defender award after Dwight Howard in 2009. Also Read: Premier League: Liverpool crush Leeds 6-1 after controversial opener by Gakpo Jackson, whose father spent 13 seasons in the NBA and helped the San Antonio Spurs win an NBA crown in 1999, led the NBA with 3.0 blocked shots a game. "You really put yourself second and everything that has to do with the team is first," Jackson said. "(My dad) always did that in his career... he always wanted to play winning basketball. He was thankful enough to win a championship and that's what I'm trying to do now, get one of my own." Jackson also averaged 18.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.0 steals a contest for a Memphis club that ranked third defensively in the NBA and finished second in the Western Conference at 51-31. "Team defense really helps us go a long way," Jackson said. Jackson held opponents to an NBA-low 46.9% as the closest defender at the rim but is working to be more of a scoring threat as well. "I'm trying to put it all together, be the best you can be, be a good all-around player," Jackson said. "The greatest two-way players, they had to do a lot. Had to have the endurance to be on both ends. It was really my pops. He had me working on all kinds of crazy stuff in the gym." Lopez averaged 2.5 blocked shots a game, sharing second in the NBA, as well as 15.9 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists a game. Mobley 16.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.5 blocked shots a game. 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: Grizzlies' Jaren Jackson Jr. named Defensive Player of Year for second time in a row

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

NBA Academy India Women's Program Alumnus Ann Mary Zachariah has committed to Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado, to play NCAA Division 1 college basketball.

The Kerala native becomes the fourth player overall from NBA Academy India to earn a Division I basketball scholarship, joining Sanjana Ramesh at Northern Arizona and Harsimran Kaur at San Diego on the women's side and Amaan Sandhu at Monmouth Hawks on the men's side.

Ann Mary was a part of the Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program, a comprehensive youth development initiative that aims to develop basketball at the grassroots level and commitment towards the holistic growth of children through active participation in sports. In 2015, Ann Mary was identified as a top prospect, a critical juncture in her sporting career. Since its inception, Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA Program has reached more than 11 million youngsters from 13,000 schools across 34 cities and trained nearly 15,000 physical education instructors nationwide.

Thereafter, she participated in three NBA-led basketball development programs before playing stateside. She has been playing basketball in the United States since the start of 2020 when she committed to Life Prep Academy in Wichita, Kansas. After that, she joined Howard Junior College in Big Spring, Texas.

While at Howard Junior, Ann Mary averaged 15.4 points per game in her first collegiate season while shooting 40.2 per cent and pulling down 10.4 rebounds per contest. She also recorded nine games with 20+ points, including a career-high 37 on 14-for-22 shooting. With her dominating performances on the court, she was named the WJCAC Women's Basketball Freshman of the Year and to the All-Conference Team.

In 2018, Ann Mary participated in Basketball Without Borders Asia and participated in multiple NBA Academy Women's Program camps in India from 2017-2019. In one of these camps, she won the Coaches Award. She also represented India in two junior FIBA tournaments - U16 Women's Asian Championship 2017 and U18 Women's Asian Championship 2018 and was a participant in the NCAA's Next Generation program at the Women's Final Four in Tampa.

“Heartiest congratulations to Ann Mary for committing to play the NCAA Division 1 for Colorado State University. It is a proud moment for all of us as Ann, a part of the Reliance Foundation Jr NBA program, looks to making her mark in the US circuit. At Reliance Foundation, we are committed towards supporting and creating a pathway for women to pursue sports as a profession and through the Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program, we aim to catalyse the growth of budding basketball talent to get the opportunity they deserve. We wish Ann all the best and hope to see her make rapid strides to showcase her talent and inspire budding athletes,"&nbsp;Reliance Foundation congratulated Ann on her achievement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/media-rights-deal-for-indian-cricket-for-2023-2027-cycle-could-be-completed-by-july-hints-jay-shah-582556">Media rights deal for Indian cricket for 2023-2027 cycle could be completed by July, hints Jay Shah</a>

Zachariah joins the Colorado State University at the centre position, standing at 6'3". She will play D-1 NCAA basketball in the Mountain West Conference under head coach Ryun Williams.

The NBA Academy Women's Program is a series of basketball development camps for top female athletes from outside the U.S. at the league's academies.

The NBA also has an NBA Academy India, an elite basketball training centre for the top prospects from across India and the first of its kind in the country. It is one of four NBA Academies around the world: NBA Academy Africa (Senegal), NBA Academy Latin America (Mexico), NBA Academy India (India), and NBA Global Academy (Australia). NBA Academy India is supported by official partner ACG, an elite basketball training centre for the top prospects from throughout India and the first of its kind in the country.

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NBA Academy India Women's Program Alumnus Ann Mary Zachariah has committed to Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado, to play NCAA Division 1 college basketball.

NBA Academy India Women's Program Alumnus Ann Mary Zachariah has committed to Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado, to play NCAA Division 1 college basketball. The Kerala native becomes the fourth player overall from NBA Academy India to earn a Division I basketball scholarship, joining Sanjana Ramesh at Northern Arizona and Harsimran Kaur at San Diego on the women's side and Amaan Sandhu at Monmouth Hawks on the men's side. Ann Mary was a part of the Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program, a comprehensive youth development initiative that aims to develop basketball at the grassroots level and commitment towards the holistic growth of children through active participation in sports. In 2015, Ann Mary was identified as a top prospect, a critical juncture in her sporting career. Since its inception, Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA Program has reached more than 11 million youngsters from 13,000 schools across 34 cities and trained nearly 15,000 physical education instructors nationwide. Thereafter, she participated in three NBA-led basketball development programs before playing stateside. She has been playing basketball in the United States since the start of 2020 when she committed to Life Prep Academy in Wichita, Kansas. After that, she joined Howard Junior College in Big Spring, Texas. While at Howard Junior, Ann Mary averaged 15.4 points per game in her first collegiate season while shooting 40.2 per cent and pulling down 10.4 rebounds per contest. She also recorded nine games with 20+ points, including a career-high 37 on 14-for-22 shooting. With her dominating performances on the court, she was named the WJCAC Women's Basketball Freshman of the Year and to the All-Conference Team. In 2018, Ann Mary participated in Basketball Without Borders Asia and participated in multiple NBA Academy Women's Program camps in India from 2017-2019. In one of these camps, she won the Coaches Award. She also represented India in two junior FIBA tournaments - U16 Women's Asian Championship 2017 and U18 Women's Asian Championship 2018 and was a participant in the NCAA's Next Generation program at the Women's Final Four in Tampa. “Heartiest congratulations to Ann Mary for committing to play the NCAA Division 1 for Colorado State University. It is a proud moment for all of us as Ann, a part of the Reliance Foundation Jr NBA program, looks to making her mark in the US circuit. At Reliance Foundation, we are committed towards supporting and creating a pathway for women to pursue sports as a profession and through the Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program, we aim to catalyse the growth of budding basketball talent to get the opportunity they deserve. We wish Ann all the best and hope to see her make rapid strides to showcase her talent and inspire budding athletes," Reliance Foundation congratulated Ann on her achievement. ALSO READ | Media rights deal for Indian cricket for 2023-2027 cycle could be completed by July, hints Jay Shah Zachariah joins the Colorado State University at the centre position, standing at 6'3". She will play D-1 NCAA basketball in the Mountain West Conference under head coach Ryun Williams. The NBA Academy Women's Program is a series of basketball development camps for top female athletes from outside the U.S. at the league's academies. The NBA also has an NBA Academy India, an elite basketball training centre for the top prospects from across India and the first of its kind in the country. It is one of four NBA Academies around the world: NBA Academy Africa (Senegal), NBA Academy Latin America (Mexico), NBA Academy India (India), and NBA Global Academy (Australia). NBA Academy India is supported by official partner ACG, an elite basketball training centre for the top prospects from throughout India and the first of its kind in the country. 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.

Basketball: India's Ann Mary Zachariah commits to Colorado State University; to play in NCAA Division 1

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

Zach LaVine inspired a fightback as the Chicago Bulls eliminated the Toronto Raptors from the NBA play-in tournament Wednesday, while rising Australian star Josh Giddey helped the Oklahoma City Thunder end the New Orleans Pelicans' season.

LaVine finished with 39 points –- 30 of them scored after half-time -- in a 109-105 road victory for the Bulls, who will now face Miami on Friday with the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs up for grabs.

LaVine and former Toronto star DeMar DeRozan showed superb composure down the stretch as Chicago recovered from a 19-point third-quarter deficit to snatch a win that left Toronto's Scotiabank Arena in stunned silence.

DeRozan finished with 23 points while Nikola Vucevic finished with 14 points, 13 rebounds and four assists.

Chicago coach Billy Donovan hailed LaVine's role in the comeback as "extraordinary."

"He was phenomenal," Donovan said. "What he did in that third quarter and going into the fourth quarter -– it would have been very difficult for us to have won that game had he not done that.

"His performance was extraordinary. It gave us life, and it gave us hope...he had that mentality where he was going to do whatever he had to get us back in the game."

Toronto, who looked to be in complete control for long periods of the game, were left ruing a litany of missed free throws.

The Raptors shot only 18-of-36 from the foul line, a 50 percent success rate which was in stark contrast to the Bulls, who made 18 of their 22 free throws.

"That's a lot of misses," Toronto coach Nick Nurse said afterwards. "We left a lot of points on the floor there for sure.

"Okay, you're not going to make them all. But if you miss more than 10 free throws in a game, it's hard to win."

Pascal Siakam (32 points) and Fred VanVleet (26) were both outstanding for Toronto, with VanVleet electrifying the home crowd with a buzzer-beating three-pointer from near half-way as the second quarter ended.

That gave Toronto a 58-47 lead at half-time, and the Raptors kept up their scoring momentum early in the second half, extending their lead to 19 points as Chicago's offense sputtered.

But the pendulum swung back in the visitors' favor once LaVine found his range, and as Chicago's defensive fine-tuning stifled the Raptors, the Bulls began to steadily whittle away the deficit.

A Pat Beverley three-pointer put Chicago ahead for the first time in the second half at 98-95 and Toronto were never able to get back in front thereafter.

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<h2>Young guns stun Pelicans</h2>

In Wednesday's other game, Oklahoma City's youthful line-up showed tremendous poise under pressure to grind out a 123-118 victory over the Pelicans in New Orleans.

That result means the Thunder will face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday with the chance to advance into the playoffs, while the Pelicans are now eliminated.

The Melbourne-born Giddey -- still only 20 -- produced a stunning performance with 31 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the oldest member of the Thunder starting line-up at 24, also came up big with 32 points, while the 23-year-old Lu Dort finished with 27 points.

It was another remarkable display by Oklahoma City, whose starting line-up had an average age of just over 21. The game was also Giddey's first experience of high-pressure postseason basketball.

"It was pretty much everything I expected," Giddey told ESPN afterwards. "A loud crowd, a hostile environment. As a kid you grow up wanting to be in these type of moments.

"I'm glad we came out of here with a win and we move on to the next one.

Gilgeous-Alexander said Oklahoma City's young squad had developed poise under pressure after being "battle-tested" throughout the regular season.

"We've played in a lot of close games and we've developed good habits -- we know what gets it done down the stretch," Gilgeous-Alexander said.

Giddey was already looking ahead to Friday's date in Minneapolis.

"It's going to be a similar environment -- hostile, on the road, a do-or-die game," Giddey said.

"It's going to be another test, but as Shai said -- we've had a lot of close games and none of these moments rattle our guys. We'll be ready for Minnesota."

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Zach LaVine inspired a fightback as the Chicago Bulls eliminated the Toronto Raptors from the NBA play-in tournament Wednesday, while rising Australian star Josh Giddey helped the Oklahoma City Thunder end the New Orleans Pelicans' season.

Zach LaVine inspired a fightback as the Chicago Bulls eliminated the Toronto Raptors from the NBA play-in tournament Wednesday, while rising Australian star Josh Giddey helped the Oklahoma City Thunder end the New Orleans Pelicans' season. LaVine finished with 39 points –- 30 of them scored after half-time -- in a 109-105 road victory for the Bulls, who will now face Miami on Friday with the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs up for grabs. LaVine and former Toronto star DeMar DeRozan showed superb composure down the stretch as Chicago recovered from a 19-point third-quarter deficit to snatch a win that left Toronto's Scotiabank Arena in stunned silence. DeRozan finished with 23 points while Nikola Vucevic finished with 14 points, 13 rebounds and four assists. Chicago coach Billy Donovan hailed LaVine's role in the comeback as "extraordinary." "He was phenomenal," Donovan said. "What he did in that third quarter and going into the fourth quarter -– it would have been very difficult for us to have won that game had he not done that. "His performance was extraordinary. It gave us life, and it gave us hope...he had that mentality where he was going to do whatever he had to get us back in the game." Toronto, who looked to be in complete control for long periods of the game, were left ruing a litany of missed free throws. The Raptors shot only 18-of-36 from the foul line, a 50 percent success rate which was in stark contrast to the Bulls, who made 18 of their 22 free throws. "That's a lot of misses," Toronto coach Nick Nurse said afterwards. "We left a lot of points on the floor there for sure. "Okay, you're not going to make them all. But if you miss more than 10 free throws in a game, it's hard to win." Pascal Siakam (32 points) and Fred VanVleet (26) were both outstanding for Toronto, with VanVleet electrifying the home crowd with a buzzer-beating three-pointer from near half-way as the second quarter ended. That gave Toronto a 58-47 lead at half-time, and the Raptors kept up their scoring momentum early in the second half, extending their lead to 19 points as Chicago's offense sputtered. But the pendulum swung back in the visitors' favor once LaVine found his range, and as Chicago's defensive fine-tuning stifled the Raptors, the Bulls began to steadily whittle away the deficit. A Pat Beverley three-pointer put Chicago ahead for the first time in the second half at 98-95 and Toronto were never able to get back in front thereafter. ALSO READ | Europa League: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford ruled out of crunch first leg vs Sevilla with muscle injury Young guns stun Pelicans In Wednesday's other game, Oklahoma City's youthful line-up showed tremendous poise under pressure to grind out a 123-118 victory over the Pelicans in New Orleans. That result means the Thunder will face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday with the chance to advance into the playoffs, while the Pelicans are now eliminated. The Melbourne-born Giddey -- still only 20 -- produced a stunning performance with 31 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the oldest member of the Thunder starting line-up at 24, also came up big with 32 points, while the 23-year-old Lu Dort finished with 27 points. It was another remarkable display by Oklahoma City, whose starting line-up had an average age of just over 21. The game was also Giddey's first experience of high-pressure postseason basketball. "It was pretty much everything I expected," Giddey told ESPN afterwards. "A loud crowd, a hostile environment. As a kid you grow up wanting to be in these type of moments. "I'm glad we came out of here with a win and we move on to the next one. Gilgeous-Alexander said Oklahoma City's young squad had developed poise under pressure after being "battle-tested" throughout the regular season. "We've played in a lot of close games and we've developed good habits -- we know what gets it done down the stretch," Gilgeous-Alexander said. Giddey was already looking ahead to Friday's date in Minneapolis. "It's going to be a similar environment -- hostile, on the road, a do-or-die game," Giddey said. "It's going to be another test, but as Shai said -- we've had a lot of close games and none of these moments rattle our guys. We'll be ready for Minnesota." 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: Zach LaVine shines for Chicago Bulls; Josh Giddey stars in Thunder's rolling of Pelicans

LeBron James scored 30 points as the Los Angeles Lakers muscled their way into the NBA playoffs on Tuesday with a thrilling come-from-behind 108-102 overtime victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Lakers clinched seventh seed and advanced to a Western Conference first-round playoff series against the second-seeded Memphis Grizzlies starting on Sunday after a pulsating duel at the Crypto.com Arena.

The Timberwolves will have a second chance to reach the postseason when they face either New Orleans or Oklahoma City on Friday where the eighth seeding in the Western Conference will be up for grabs.&nbsp;

New Orleans and Oklahoma City face each other on Wednesday to determine who advances to that game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-trae-young-drop-25-as-atlanta-hawks-down-miami-heat-to-enter-playoffs-581518">Trae Young drop 25 as Atlanta Hawks down Miami Heat to enter playoffs</a>

"This is what our sport is all about -– getting to April and having an opportunity to play in the postseason," the 38-year-old James said after the win. "We've been battle-tested all year and since the All-Star break we've been playing some good basketball."

A nerve-jangling fourth quarter saw the Lakers battle back from a 10-point deficit to move to the brink of victory after James engineered a three-pointer for German international Dennis Schroder to put Los Angeles 98-95 ahead with just 1.4 seconds remaining.

But as the home crowd prepared to celebrate, Anthony Davis was called for a rash foul on Mike Conley as the Timberwolves veteran attempted a desperate game-tying late three.

Conley's effort missed but he duly stepped up to drain three free-throws under excruciating pressure to knot the game at 98-98 and force overtime.

Yet the Lakers regrouped to start overtime with a flurry of points, Rui Hachimura's three-pointer and a Schroder layup putting Los Angeles five points clear at 103-98.

The Lakers kept their noses in front and after a missed three-point attempt by Taurean Prince that could have tied it for Minnesota, the hosts closed out the win.

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LeBron James scored 30 points as the Los Angeles Lakers muscled their way into the NBA playoffs on Tuesday with a thrilling come-from-behind 108-102 overtime victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

LeBron James scored 30 points as the Los Angeles Lakers muscled their way into the NBA playoffs on Tuesday with a thrilling come-from-behind 108-102 overtime victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Lakers clinched seventh seed and advanced to a Western Conference first-round playoff series against the second-seeded Memphis Grizzlies starting on Sunday after a pulsating duel at the Crypto.com Arena. The Timberwolves will have a second chance to reach the postseason when they face either New Orleans or Oklahoma City on Friday where the eighth seeding in the Western Conference will be up for grabs. New Orleans and Oklahoma City face each other on Wednesday to determine who advances to that game. Also Read: Trae Young drop 25 as Atlanta Hawks down Miami Heat to enter playoffs "This is what our sport is all about -– getting to April and having an opportunity to play in the postseason," the 38-year-old James said after the win. "We've been battle-tested all year and since the All-Star break we've been playing some good basketball." A nerve-jangling fourth quarter saw the Lakers battle back from a 10-point deficit to move to the brink of victory after James engineered a three-pointer for German international Dennis Schroder to put Los Angeles 98-95 ahead with just 1.4 seconds remaining. But as the home crowd prepared to celebrate, Anthony Davis was called for a rash foul on Mike Conley as the Timberwolves veteran attempted a desperate game-tying late three. Conley's effort missed but he duly stepped up to drain three free-throws under excruciating pressure to knot the game at 98-98 and force overtime. Yet the Lakers regrouped to start overtime with a flurry of points, Rui Hachimura's three-pointer and a Schroder layup putting Los Angeles five points clear at 103-98. The Lakers kept their noses in front and after a missed three-point attempt by Taurean Prince that could have tied it for Minnesota, the hosts closed out the win. 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: LeBron leads Lakers into playoffs after OT win against Wolves

Trae Young scored 25 points as the Atlanta Hawks booked their place in the NBA playoffs after defeating the Miami Heat 116-105 in the opening game of the play-in tournament on Tuesday.

Atlanta's bench combined to score 53 points to silence the Miami home crowd and send the Hawks into an Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics.

Miami will now face the winner of Wednesday's game between Toronto and Chicago to determine the eighth and final seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/nba-playin-tournament-2023-format-teams-schedule-hawks-heat-lakers-wolves-bulls-raptors-okc-pelicans-1681206683449" target="_blank">NBA 2023: Play-in Tournament Format, Teams and Schedule</a>

"We brought the physicality to them," Young said after the win. "They're known for being a very physical team and trying to bully a lot of teams on the defensive end.

"And if you don't match their physicality you can get beat. Tonight I think we matched their physicality and it showed."

Young led a superb all-round offensive team effort from Atlanta, who saw seven players finish in double figures.

Dejounte Murray posted 18 points, while Saddiq Bey added 17.&nbsp;

Atlanta took a stranglehold on the game after a dominant first-half display, outhustling a sluggish Miami line-up at both ends of the court to quickly open up a double-digit lead.

The Hawks moved nine points clear at the end of the first quarter at 36-27 and then accelerated away in the second to lead by 24 points at 63-39.

Only a late 11-0 Miami run to close the half -– Kyle Lowry taking his first-half tally to 19 points -- kept the scoreline respectable but Atlanta nevertheless still reached half-time with a hefty 65-50 lead.

Young led the Atlanta scoring in the first half with 13 points and six assists, including one superb behind-the-back pass in the second quarter to set up a three-pointer for Bey.

Clint Capela also delivered a huge defensive performance for Atlanta, hauling in 21 rebounds and making two crucial blocks in the first half to stymie Miami's offense.

Miami rallied to start the second half with a 13-4 run and closed to within five points at one stage in the third quarter.

But Atlanta were always able to raise the game at key moments to close out the win.

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Trae Young scored 25 points as the Atlanta Hawks booked their place in the NBA playoffs after defeating the Miami Heat 116-105 in the opening game of the play-in tournament on Tuesday.

Trae Young scored 25 points as the Atlanta Hawks booked their place in the NBA playoffs after defeating the Miami Heat 116-105 in the opening game of the play-in tournament on Tuesday. Atlanta's bench combined to score 53 points to silence the Miami home crowd and send the Hawks into an Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics. Miami will now face the winner of Wednesday's game between Toronto and Chicago to determine the eighth and final seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Also Read: NBA 2023: Play-in Tournament Format, Teams and Schedule "We brought the physicality to them," Young said after the win. "They're known for being a very physical team and trying to bully a lot of teams on the defensive end. "And if you don't match their physicality you can get beat. Tonight I think we matched their physicality and it showed." Young led a superb all-round offensive team effort from Atlanta, who saw seven players finish in double figures. Dejounte Murray posted 18 points, while Saddiq Bey added 17. Atlanta took a stranglehold on the game after a dominant first-half display, outhustling a sluggish Miami line-up at both ends of the court to quickly open up a double-digit lead. The Hawks moved nine points clear at the end of the first quarter at 36-27 and then accelerated away in the second to lead by 24 points at 63-39. Only a late 11-0 Miami run to close the half -– Kyle Lowry taking his first-half tally to 19 points -- kept the scoreline respectable but Atlanta nevertheless still reached half-time with a hefty 65-50 lead. Young led the Atlanta scoring in the first half with 13 points and six assists, including one superb behind-the-back pass in the second quarter to set up a three-pointer for Bey. Clint Capela also delivered a huge defensive performance for Atlanta, hauling in 21 rebounds and making two crucial blocks in the first half to stymie Miami's offense. Miami rallied to start the second half with a 13-4 run and closed to within five points at one stage in the third quarter. But Atlanta were always able to raise the game at key moments to close out the win. 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: Trae Young drop 25 as Atlanta Hawks down Miami Heat to enter playoffs

Trae Young scored 25 points, Clint Capela grabbed 21 rebounds and the Atlanta Hawks grabbed the No. 7 in the Eastern Conference playoffs by beating the Miami Heat 116-105 in a play-in tournament game Tuesday night.

NBA: Atlanta Hawks grab No. 7 seed in East, hold off Miami Heat 116-105

NBA Play-in Tournament started off in a blistering manner with the Atlanta Hawks and the Los Angeles Lakers emerging as winners in the Eastern and Western conferences, respectively.

Both the teams have qualified for the NBA Playoffs now as the seventh seed in their respective conferences. The losers, Heat and Wolves, however, will have another shot at making the playoffs against the winner of the second play-in game between No. 9 and No. 10 seed teams in their conferences.

<h2>Here are the Winners and Losers of the first two play-in tournament games:</h2>

<h3>NBA Play-in tournament Winners:</h3>

Atlanta Hawks in Eastern Conference

The Hawks set the tone early in the game as they led the scoring in the first two quarters of the game 36-27 and 29-23. The Heat could never bridge the gap even as they outscored the Hawks in the next two quarters 28-26 and 27-25. 'Ice' Trae Young led the scoring table for the Hawks as he dropped 25 points and Atlanta eventually won 116-105.

Other notable performances from the Hawks were Dejounte Murray 18 points, Saddiq Bey 17 points, Bogdan Bogdanovic 14 points, Onyeka Okongwu 12 points and Clint Capela's 21 rebounds.

Los Angeles Lakers in Western Conference

LeBron James and Anthony Davis both had a brilliant night as the Lakers scampered their way into the NBA Playoffs. Both James and Davis scored a double-double in a must-win game for the Showtime Lakers. James, however top scored with 30 points and 10 rebounds while Davis dropped 24 points and 15 rebounds.

Lakers' Dennis Schroder also scored 21 points as Lakers shrugged off first-half deficit of 11 points and went on to with the game in OT by six points with the final scoreboard reading of 108-102.

Watch the Hawks vs Heat full game highlights below:

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/ATLHawks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATLHawks</a> were ACTIVE on the glass in their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATTPlayIn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATTPlayIn</a> win! 
 
💪 22 offensive boards 
💪 26 second-chance points 
 
For more, download the NBA app: 
📲 <a href="https://t.co/EfGWQh0QrC">https://t.co/EfGWQh0QrC</a> <a href="https://t.co/DJCbTD9T67">pic.twitter.com/DJCbTD9T67</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1646060585744842754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h3>NBA Play-in Tournament Losers:</h3>

Miami Heat in Eastern Conference

The Heat were the better team but in last two quarters of the game and the four point advantage they gained in the second half wasn't suffice against the soaring Hawks.&nbsp;

For the Heat, Kyle Lowry led the way with 33 points while Tyler Herro dropped 26 but it was all too little too late. Heat's superstar Jimmy Buttler too managed 21 points and all these efforts went in vain. Miami will, however, have another shot at making it to the playoffs on April 14 when they take on the winner of Bulls vs Raptors game.

Minnesota Timberwolves in Western Conference

The Wolves started strongly and gained a lead of 11 points at the end of second quarter but then they lost their way as the Lakers counter-attacked to wipe off the lead in the next two quarters.

The game then moved into overtime, giving the Wolves another chance to find their way back into the game but the Showtime Lakers were too bright for them as Minnesota were outscored 4-10 in the OT.

However, just like the Heat, Timberwolves will have another shot again to make it right when they take on the winner of Pelicans vs Raptors.

Watch the Lakers vs Wolves full game highlights here:

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30 FOR THE KING. 
LAKERS WIN TO GET IN.<a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KingJames</a> powers the Lakers into the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBAPlayoffs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBAPlayoffs</a> presented by Google Pixel! <a href="https://t.co/6Hw35GM3qf">pic.twitter.com/6Hw35GM3qf</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1646019532505448449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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NBA Play-in Tournament started off in a blistering manner with the Atlanta Hawks and the Los Angeles Lakers emerging as winners in the Eastern and Western conferences, respectively.

NBA Play-in Tournament started off in a blistering manner with the Atlanta Hawks and the Los Angeles Lakers emerging as winners in the Eastern and Western conferences, respectively. Both the teams have qualified for the NBA Playoffs now as the seventh seed in their respective conferences. The losers, Heat and Wolves, however, will have another shot at making the playoffs against the winner of the second play-in game between No. 9 and No. 10 seed teams in their conferences. Here are the Winners and Losers of the first two play-in tournament games: NBA Play-in tournament Winners: Atlanta Hawks in Eastern Conference The Hawks set the tone early in the game as they led the scoring in the first two quarters of the game 36-27 and 29-23. The Heat could never bridge the gap even as they outscored the Hawks in the next two quarters 28-26 and 27-25. 'Ice' Trae Young led the scoring table for the Hawks as he dropped 25 points and Atlanta eventually won 116-105. Other notable performances from the Hawks were Dejounte Murray 18 points, Saddiq Bey 17 points, Bogdan Bogdanovic 14 points, Onyeka Okongwu 12 points and Clint Capela's 21 rebounds. Los Angeles Lakers in Western Conference LeBron James and Anthony Davis both had a brilliant night as the Lakers scampered their way into the NBA Playoffs. Both James and Davis scored a double-double in a must-win game for the Showtime Lakers. James, however top scored with 30 points and 10 rebounds while Davis dropped 24 points and 15 rebounds. Lakers' Dennis Schroder also scored 21 points as Lakers shrugged off first-half deficit of 11 points and went on to with the game in OT by six points with the final scoreboard reading of 108-102. Watch the Hawks vs Heat full game highlights below: The @ATLHawks were ACTIVE on the glass in their #ATTPlayIn win! 💪 22 offensive boards 💪 26 second-chance points For more, download the NBA app: 📲 https://t.co/EfGWQh0QrC pic.twitter.com/DJCbTD9T67 — NBA (@NBA) April 12, 2023 × Also Read: NBA 2023: Play-in Tournament Format, Teams and Schedule NBA Play-in Tournament Losers: Miami Heat in Eastern Conference The Heat were the better team but in last two quarters of the game and the four point advantage they gained in the second half wasn't suffice against the soaring Hawks. For the Heat, Kyle Lowry led the way with 33 points while Tyler Herro dropped 26 but it was all too little too late. Heat's superstar Jimmy Buttler too managed 21 points and all these efforts went in vain. Miami will, however, have another shot at making it to the playoffs on April 14 when they take on the winner of Bulls vs Raptors game. Minnesota Timberwolves in Western Conference The Wolves started strongly and gained a lead of 11 points at the end of second quarter but then they lost their way as the Lakers counter-attacked to wipe off the lead in the next two quarters. The game then moved into overtime, giving the Wolves another chance to find their way back into the game but the Showtime Lakers were too bright for them as Minnesota were outscored 4-10 in the OT. However, just like the Heat, Timberwolves will have another shot again to make it right when they take on the winner of Pelicans vs Raptors. Watch the Lakers vs Wolves full game highlights here: 30 FOR THE KING. LAKERS WIN TO GET IN.@KingJames powers the Lakers into the #NBAPlayoffs presented by Google Pixel! pic.twitter.com/6Hw35GM3qf — NBA (@NBA) April 12, 2023 × 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 2023 Play-in Tournament: Hawks vs Heat and Lakers vs Timberwolves scores, results and full game highlights

The Los Angeles Lakers entered the play-in tournament in the most dramatic manner as they beat Utah Jazz 135-133 in overtime and it was Lakers star LeBron James who made the winning shot.

The Lakers were leading 68-57 at the halftime but the Jazz rallied from behind to score 67 points in the next two quarters against the Lakers' 57.

The game went into the OT and the LA Laker outscored Utah Jazz 11-9 with James making the last layup. Have a look at the video here:

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LEBRON SEALS THE OT WIN FOR THE LAKERS 💪🏾 <a href="https://t.co/49cKb9Jga7">pic.twitter.com/49cKb9Jga7</a>
— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1643459741295968256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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LeBron James and Anthony Davis, both of whom are returning from the injuries, played for longer time than usual. LeBron, in fifth game back after staying away four weeks due to torn tendon, clocked 38 minutes game-time while Anthony Davis played 42 minutes - first time north of 40 since January.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mlb-padres-manny-machado-gets-out-on-pitch-clock-violation-ejected-after-arguing-watch-579347">Padres' Manny Machado gets out on pitch clock violation, ejected after arguing</a>

"The extra five minutes definitely didn't help," LeBron said after the game. "It definitely didn't help but we needed to get the win," he added. Notably, LeBron hadn't played more than 32 minutes since coming back from the injury.

Whether he'll play against the Clipper or not, LeBron said he'll see how his foot feels.

"How my foot feels when I wake up and I step out of bed," James said when asked what would determine whether he suits up for the Clippers game or not. "That's been the most important since I've injured it five weeks ago -- the next day after either rehab or training or treatment, whatever. It's always that."

Davis, on the other hand, said, "I haven't played in a back-to-back in a long time. So, I mean, we'll all get on a phone call or something tomorrow morning and go from there."

LeBron scored 37 points in the game, while Austin Reaves scored 28 and Davis chipped in with 21 points.

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The Los Angeles Lakers entered the play-in tournament in the most dramatic manner as they beat Utah Jazz 135-133 in overtime and it was Lakers star LeBron James who made the winning shot.

The Los Angeles Lakers entered the play-in tournament in the most dramatic manner as they beat Utah Jazz 135-133 in overtime and it was Lakers star LeBron James who made the winning shot. The Lakers were leading 68-57 at the halftime but the Jazz rallied from behind to score 67 points in the next two quarters against the Lakers' 57. The game went into the OT and the LA Laker outscored Utah Jazz 11-9 with James making the last layup. Have a look at the video here: LEBRON SEALS THE OT WIN FOR THE LAKERS 💪🏾 pic.twitter.com/49cKb9Jga7 — NBA TV (@NBATV) April 5, 2023 × LeBron James and Anthony Davis, both of whom are returning from the injuries, played for longer time than usual. LeBron, in fifth game back after staying away four weeks due to torn tendon, clocked 38 minutes game-time while Anthony Davis played 42 minutes - first time north of 40 since January. Also Watch: Padres' Manny Machado gets out on pitch clock violation, ejected after arguing "The extra five minutes definitely didn't help," LeBron said after the game. "It definitely didn't help but we needed to get the win," he added. Notably, LeBron hadn't played more than 32 minutes since coming back from the injury. Whether he'll play against the Clipper or not, LeBron said he'll see how his foot feels. "How my foot feels when I wake up and I step out of bed," James said when asked what would determine whether he suits up for the Clippers game or not. "That's been the most important since I've injured it five weeks ago -- the next day after either rehab or training or treatment, whatever. It's always that." Davis, on the other hand, said, "I haven't played in a back-to-back in a long time. So, I mean, we'll all get on a phone call or something tomorrow morning and go from there." LeBron scored 37 points in the game, while Austin Reaves scored 28 and Davis chipped in with 21 points. 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: LeBron makes game-winning layup in OT as Lakers beat Jazz to enter play-in tournament - WATCH

The Golden State Warriors player’s Andrew Wiggins return to the team is still in a fix. There have been no words on when Wiggins will join, nor has he made any comments since his leave of absence. Wiggins has been absent since mid-February ‘for personal reasons’, according to the NBA club and the player’s silence has not helped to solve the ongoing dilemma.&nbsp;

Wiggins’ girlfriend, on the other hand, is making all the news with her social media. On Monday, Mychal Johnson shared a video on TikTok that showed her walking while a voiceover said, “Just to set the record straight, I don’t give a fuck about how anyone feels about me”.&nbsp;

This is not the first time that Mychal has posted something that added fuel to the fire of rumours surrounding Wiggins’ situation. She is also very active on Twitter as well and has published plenty of cryptic messages, like this one, “Don't believe everything you read on social media!”

Warriors stars are also giving no clues about when Wiggins will join the team. Daymond Green said on his podcast last week that he was ‘disgusted’ by the ‘embarrassing’ rumours, although he didn’t give much detail on it. The Warriors coach Steve Kerr also expressed his faith that he will come back soon, “There’s hope, but I guess it’s indefinite’.&nbsp;

For the moment, there have been no updates regarding Andrew Wiggins but only some cryptic messages from his girlfriend, Mychal Johson.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Mychal Johson? The Golden State Warriors star’s girlfriend</h2>

Mychal Johson is a former Notre Dame player and has been dating Wiggins since 2013. The couple has two daughters together, Amyah Wiggins and Alayah Milan. Mychal was a basketball player for the Notre Dame Basketball team during her college years, but currently, her profession is unknown. She is quite active on Instagram under the username “@mycoool_” and enjoys a following of more than 24k followers. She describes herself as an entrepreneur and regularly posts updates about her personal life.&nbsp;
<img alt="Mychal Johnson " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="25cc3d7d-ad02-4435-8957-6d3e3bd70b28" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-03-31T114413.873.jpg" />
Wiggins, who himself is a Kansas Jayhawks alumnus, knew Mychal Johnson from her university days. The two were a couple in college and Mychal is considered to be of the same age as Wiggins. Their first child, Amyah was born in October 2018 and the couple was blessed with their second daughter in April 2021.&nbsp;

Back in July 2022, Andrew Wiggins talked to E! and talked to them about their kids in the interview. “You can go to work or somewhere and not have the best day and come home and my daughters are just there waiting for me. They’re always happy, always in a good mood. I always feel so much love so they keep me going.”

&nbsp;

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The Golden State Warriors player’s Andrew Wiggins return to the team is still in a fix. There have been no words on when Wiggins will join, nor has he made any comments since his leave of absence.

The Golden State Warriors player’s Andrew Wiggins return to the team is still in a fix. There have been no words on when Wiggins will join, nor has he made any comments since his leave of absence. Wiggins has been absent since mid-February ‘for personal reasons’, according to the NBA club and the player’s silence has not helped to solve the ongoing dilemma. Wiggins’ girlfriend, on the other hand, is making all the news with her social media. On Monday, Mychal Johnson shared a video on TikTok that showed her walking while a voiceover said, “Just to set the record straight, I don’t give a fuck about how anyone feels about me”. This is not the first time that Mychal has posted something that added fuel to the fire of rumours surrounding Wiggins’ situation. She is also very active on Twitter as well and has published plenty of cryptic messages, like this one, “Don't believe everything you read on social media!” Warriors stars are also giving no clues about when Wiggins will join the team. Daymond Green said on his podcast last week that he was ‘disgusted’ by the ‘embarrassing’ rumours, although he didn’t give much detail on it. The Warriors coach Steve Kerr also expressed his faith that he will come back soon, “There’s hope, but I guess it’s indefinite’. For the moment, there have been no updates regarding Andrew Wiggins but only some cryptic messages from his girlfriend, Mychal Johson. Who is Mychal Johson? The Golden State Warriors star’s girlfriend Mychal Johson is a former Notre Dame player and has been dating Wiggins since 2013. The couple has two daughters together, Amyah Wiggins and Alayah Milan. Mychal was a basketball player for the Notre Dame Basketball team during her college years, but currently, her profession is unknown. She is quite active on Instagram under the username “@mycoool_” and enjoys a following of more than 24k followers. She describes herself as an entrepreneur and regularly posts updates about her personal life. Wiggins, who himself is a Kansas Jayhawks alumnus, knew Mychal Johnson from her university days. The two were a couple in college and Mychal is considered to be of the same age as Wiggins. Their first child, Amyah was born in October 2018 and the couple was blessed with their second daughter in April 2021. Back in July 2022, Andrew Wiggins talked to E! and talked to them about their kids in the interview. “You can go to work or somewhere and not have the best day and come home and my daughters are just there waiting for me. They’re always happy, always in a good mood. I always feel so much love so they keep me going.” 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.

Who is Mychal Johnson? NBA star Andrew Wiggins' girlfriend who post a cryptic video amid player's absence

A group led by billionaire investor Josh Harris and NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson has submitted one of two multi-billion-dollar bids for the NFL's embattled Washington Commanders, the Washington Post reported Tuesday.

The Post was among US media outlets citing unnamed sources saying at least one formal bid had been submitted.

According to the newspaper, Harris's group includes Maryland billionaire businessman and philanthropist Mitchell Rales as well as former Los Angeles Lakers great Johnson.

Harris, the co-founder of Apollo Global Management, already owns the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and is a co-owner of the NHL's New Jersey Devils and a general partner of the English Premier League's Crystal Palace.

ESPN reported the Harris-Johnson group is offering to pay the $6 billion that has been reported as the price sought by Commanders owner Dan Snyder.

Snyder and his wife Tanya announced in November they were exploring purchase deals for the club.

Snyder, who purchased the Commanders -- then the Washington Redskins -- in 1999, has been at the center of multiple investigations into the running of the team.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-dream-of-winning-the-trophy-will-come-true-manjrekars-massive-claim-ahead-of-ipl-2023-577258">Virat Kohli's dream of winning the trophy will come true: Manjrekar's MASSIVE claim ahead of IPL 2023</a>

A US Congressional report released in December said that Snyder "permitted and participated" in a toxic workplace culture and tried to dissuade witnesses from cooperating with a 14-month investigation launched by the league.

In 2021, the NFL fined the club -- then going by the name of the Washington Football Team -- $10 million and required Snyder to relinquish day-to-day operations for several months.

The Post and other outlets reported that Canadian billionaire developer Steve Apostolopoulos, the managing partner of Triple Group of Companies and founder of the Six Ventures private equity fund, had also bid for the club.

Any sale of the club requires approval of 75% of the other 31 NFL clubs.

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A group led by billionaire investor Josh Harris and NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson has submitted one of two multi-billion-dollar bids for the NFL's embattled Washington Commanders, the Washington Post reported Tuesday.

A group led by billionaire investor Josh Harris and NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson has submitted one of two multi-billion-dollar bids for the NFL's embattled Washington Commanders, the Washington Post reported Tuesday. The Post was among US media outlets citing unnamed sources saying at least one formal bid had been submitted. According to the newspaper, Harris's group includes Maryland billionaire businessman and philanthropist Mitchell Rales as well as former Los Angeles Lakers great Johnson. Harris, the co-founder of Apollo Global Management, already owns the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and is a co-owner of the NHL's New Jersey Devils and a general partner of the English Premier League's Crystal Palace. ESPN reported the Harris-Johnson group is offering to pay the $6 billion that has been reported as the price sought by Commanders owner Dan Snyder. Snyder and his wife Tanya announced in November they were exploring purchase deals for the club. Snyder, who purchased the Commanders -- then the Washington Redskins -- in 1999, has been at the center of multiple investigations into the running of the team. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's dream of winning the trophy will come true: Manjrekar's MASSIVE claim ahead of IPL 2023 A US Congressional report released in December said that Snyder "permitted and participated" in a toxic workplace culture and tried to dissuade witnesses from cooperating with a 14-month investigation launched by the league. In 2021, the NFL fined the club -- then going by the name of the Washington Football Team -- $10 million and required Snyder to relinquish day-to-day operations for several months. The Post and other outlets reported that Canadian billionaire developer Steve Apostolopoulos, the managing partner of Triple Group of Companies and founder of the Six Ventures private equity fund, had also bid for the club. Any sale of the club requires approval of 75% of the other 31 NFL clubs. 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.

NFL: Billionaire Josh Harris, NBA icon Earvin Johnson team in bid for Commanders - Reports

In the NBA, defending champions, Golden State Warriors stormed back from 20 points down to beat the New Orleans Pelicans and boost their chances of sealing an automatic playoff spot.

NBA: Warriors rally from 20 down to beat Pelicans | WION Sports

The Chicago Bulls spoiled superstar LeBron James's return from a 13-game injury absence on Sunday, beating the Los Angeles Lakers 118-108 to tighten their hold on the final Eastern Conference play-in spot.

As the push to the post-season headed into its final two weeks, the Cleveland Cavaliers clinched their first playoff berth since 2018 with a 108-91 victory over the Houston Rockets.

Jarret Allen tied his season high with 24 points, pulled down 14 rebounds and blocked three shots while All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell added 22 points for the Cavs, who are assured of one of the top six places in the Eastern Conference to avoid the play-in tournament for the seventh- through 10th-placed teams.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-im-back-says-virat-kohli-ahead-of-upcoming-season-575885">IPL 2023: I'm back, says Virat Kohli ahead of upcoming season</a>

It's the first time since 1998 that the Cavaliers have reached the playoffs without James, whose 20-year NBA career has included two stints with his hometown team, where he won one of his four titles in 2016.

James said Sunday that the chance to challenge for a fifth title overall, and a second with the Lakers, had driven his rapid return from what he revealed was a torn tendon in his right foot.

All eyes were on the 38-year-old forward at Crypto.com Arena, where he came off the bench for just the second time in his career -- the only other occasion coming in December of 2007 when he was with Cleveland.

James checked in to a standing ovation with the Lakers up 12-9 in the first quarter -- going through his traditional hand-chalk toss near the scorer's table before hitting the floor.

He led the Lakers with 19 points in 27 and a half minutes on court. Troy Brown and Malik Beasley added 18 apiece while Anthony Davis scored 15.

But the Bulls crashed the party, Zach LaVine scoring 32 points and DeMar De Rozan adding 17 points and 10 assists as Chicago gave themselves a three-game cushion over the Washington Wizards for the 10th place in the East.

"They came out with a sense of urgency tonight," Lakers coach Darvin Ham said. "We came out a little flat, turned the ball over early. We weren't aggressive enough, physical enough."

The Lakers, who had gone 8-5 in James's absence, saw their three-game winning streak end.

They slipped from eighth to ninth in the Western Conference, half a game ahead of Oklahoma City and half a game behind New Orleans and Minnesota.

James said seeing his teammates claw out wins in his absence had spurred his injury return.

"It definitely changed my mindset on me coming back and trying to be a part of this. Well, I don't even want to say changed my mindset. It just enhanced what I was trying to do as far as my workouts, as far as my treatment and everything."

Elsewhere, Jaylen Brown scored 41 points and pulled down 13 rebounds to lead the Boston Celtics to a 137-93 home rout of the San Antonio Spurs.

The injury absence of leading scorer Jayson Tatum was no problem for the Celtics, who kept the pressure on Milwaukee in the race for top seed in the East.

<h2>Morant leads Grizzlies</h2>

Ja Morant returned to the Memphis starting lineup after coming off the bench in his first two games back from suspension, scoring 27 points to lead the Grizzlies in a 123-119 victory over the Hawks in Atlanta.

Desmond Bane added 25 points as the Grizzlies, second in the West, fended off Atlanta's late challenge to push their winning streak to six games.

The Dallas Mavericks' downward spiral continued with a 110-104 loss to the Hornets in Charlotte, where Mavs star Luka Doncic received his 16th technical foul of the season, which will trigger an automatic one-game suspension.

After failing to make a basket in the first quarter Doncic finished with 40 points, but it wasn't enough to stave off a second loss in three days to the hapless Hornets -- who are second-to-last in the Eastern Conference.

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The Chicago Bulls spoiled superstar LeBron James's return from a 13-game injury absence on Sunday, beating the Los Angeles Lakers 118-108 to tighten their hold on the final Eastern Conference play-in spot.

The Chicago Bulls spoiled superstar LeBron James's return from a 13-game injury absence on Sunday, beating the Los Angeles Lakers 118-108 to tighten their hold on the final Eastern Conference play-in spot. As the push to the post-season headed into its final two weeks, the Cleveland Cavaliers clinched their first playoff berth since 2018 with a 108-91 victory over the Houston Rockets. Jarret Allen tied his season high with 24 points, pulled down 14 rebounds and blocked three shots while All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell added 22 points for the Cavs, who are assured of one of the top six places in the Eastern Conference to avoid the play-in tournament for the seventh- through 10th-placed teams. Also Read: IPL 2023: I'm back, says Virat Kohli ahead of upcoming season It's the first time since 1998 that the Cavaliers have reached the playoffs without James, whose 20-year NBA career has included two stints with his hometown team, where he won one of his four titles in 2016. James said Sunday that the chance to challenge for a fifth title overall, and a second with the Lakers, had driven his rapid return from what he revealed was a torn tendon in his right foot. All eyes were on the 38-year-old forward at Crypto.com Arena, where he came off the bench for just the second time in his career -- the only other occasion coming in December of 2007 when he was with Cleveland. James checked in to a standing ovation with the Lakers up 12-9 in the first quarter -- going through his traditional hand-chalk toss near the scorer's table before hitting the floor. He led the Lakers with 19 points in 27 and a half minutes on court. Troy Brown and Malik Beasley added 18 apiece while Anthony Davis scored 15. But the Bulls crashed the party, Zach LaVine scoring 32 points and DeMar De Rozan adding 17 points and 10 assists as Chicago gave themselves a three-game cushion over the Washington Wizards for the 10th place in the East. "They came out with a sense of urgency tonight," Lakers coach Darvin Ham said. "We came out a little flat, turned the ball over early. We weren't aggressive enough, physical enough." The Lakers, who had gone 8-5 in James's absence, saw their three-game winning streak end. They slipped from eighth to ninth in the Western Conference, half a game ahead of Oklahoma City and half a game behind New Orleans and Minnesota. James said seeing his teammates claw out wins in his absence had spurred his injury return. "It definitely changed my mindset on me coming back and trying to be a part of this. Well, I don't even want to say changed my mindset. It just enhanced what I was trying to do as far as my workouts, as far as my treatment and everything." Elsewhere, Jaylen Brown scored 41 points and pulled down 13 rebounds to lead the Boston Celtics to a 137-93 home rout of the San Antonio Spurs. The injury absence of leading scorer Jayson Tatum was no problem for the Celtics, who kept the pressure on Milwaukee in the race for top seed in the East. Morant leads Grizzlies Ja Morant returned to the Memphis starting lineup after coming off the bench in his first two games back from suspension, scoring 27 points to lead the Grizzlies in a 123-119 victory over the Hawks in Atlanta. Desmond Bane added 25 points as the Grizzlies, second in the West, fended off Atlanta's late challenge to push their winning streak to six games. The Dallas Mavericks' downward spiral continued with a 110-104 loss to the Hornets in Charlotte, where Mavs star Luka Doncic received his 16th technical foul of the season, which will trigger an automatic one-game suspension. After failing to make a basket in the first quarter Doncic finished with 40 points, but it wasn't enough to stave off a second loss in three days to the hapless Hornets -- who are second-to-last in the Eastern Conference. 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: Bulls beat Lakers in LeBron's return, Cavaliers clinch playoff berth

Ja Morant said Tuesday he is learning to be a more responsible and smarter version of himself as he returned to practice with Memphis Grizzlies teammates for the first time since his suspension.

The Grizzlies superstar has not played since posting video of himself in a Colorado strip club brandishing a firearm on March 4.

The 23-year-old was subsequently hit with an eight-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the NBA but is now free to return to play, possibly as soon as Wednesday.

Morant told reporters that he was still undergoing therapy to help manage stress, describing treatment received in Florida as "an ongoing process."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-earvin-magic-johnson-joins-josh-harris-led-group-bidding-to-buy-washington-commanders-574209">Earvin 'Magic' Johnson joins Josh Harris-led group bidding to buy Washington Commanders</a>

"Obviously, I've been there for two weeks, but that doesn't mean I'm completely better," Morant said.&nbsp;

"So that's an ongoing process for me that I've still been continuing since I've come out."

While the NBA said Morant had been in an "intoxicated" state in the video posted online, the Grizzlies star said he does not have an alcohol problem.

"Never had an alcohol problem," Morant said. "I went for counseling to learn how to manage stress, cope with stress in a positive way instead of ways I've tried to deal with it before that caused me to make mistakes."

Morant added that he regretted the fact that the furore had overshadowed Memphis' season in the past month.

"I've made mistakes in the past that cause a lot of negative attention -- not only to me, but my family as well, my team, the organization. I'm completely sorry for that," said Morant.

"My job now is to be more responsible, more smarter, and don't cause any of that no more."

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Ja Morant said Tuesday he is learning to be a more responsible and smarter version of himself as he returned to practice with Memphis Grizzlies teammates for the first time since his suspension.

Ja Morant said Tuesday he is learning to be a more responsible and smarter version of himself as he returned to practice with Memphis Grizzlies teammates for the first time since his suspension. The Grizzlies superstar has not played since posting video of himself in a Colorado strip club brandishing a firearm on March 4. The 23-year-old was subsequently hit with an eight-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the NBA but is now free to return to play, possibly as soon as Wednesday. Morant told reporters that he was still undergoing therapy to help manage stress, describing treatment received in Florida as "an ongoing process." Also Read: Earvin 'Magic' Johnson joins Josh Harris-led group bidding to buy Washington Commanders "Obviously, I've been there for two weeks, but that doesn't mean I'm completely better," Morant said. "So that's an ongoing process for me that I've still been continuing since I've come out." While the NBA said Morant had been in an "intoxicated" state in the video posted online, the Grizzlies star said he does not have an alcohol problem. "Never had an alcohol problem," Morant said. "I went for counseling to learn how to manage stress, cope with stress in a positive way instead of ways I've tried to deal with it before that caused me to make mistakes." Morant added that he regretted the fact that the furore had overshadowed Memphis' season in the past month. "I've made mistakes in the past that cause a lot of negative attention -- not only to me, but my family as well, my team, the organization. I'm completely sorry for that," said Morant. "My job now is to be more responsible, more smarter, and don't cause any of that no more." 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: Grizzlies star Ja Morant returns to practice after suspension

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

Los Angeles Clippers guard Paul George, in Tuesday night's 101-100 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, left the game late in the fourth quarter with a right leg injury. The All-Star guard left the arena on a cart.

Clippers coach Ty Lue spoke on him after the game and said that George is being evaluated right now.

"[George is] still being evaluated right now," Lue said. "But I did see [the replay of the injury]. I didn't even know it looked like that until [an assistant coach] just showed me, so I didn't even know [what happened]," said Lue after the game.

George landed awkwardly after his knee collided with Thunder guard Luguentz Dort when he was trying to get a rebound. The Guard immediately went down on the floor and stayed there for several minutes. He needed help to walk up to the locker room after getting up.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-lauds-kl-rahul-for-doing-very-difficult-role-with-ease-compares-him-with-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-574649">Ashwin lauds KL Rahul for 'doing very difficult role with ease', compares him with MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh</a>

George, however, did turn every head in the arena with an unbelievable 360-degree spinning dunk from the baseline. He scored 18 points, seven rebounds and five assists during the time he played in the game.

At the post match conference, George's teammate Kawhi Leonard said he hasn't spoken to Paul yet and that Clippers, as a group, 'will see' how the team will adjust if the All-Star guard stays out for an extended period of time.

"I haven't spoken to him yet. And I didn't see the play. I thought he just got hit in the face at the time and stayed down for a while," said Leonard.

"We got a group of guys that still want to win, that like to play basketball, so we'll see what happens," added Kawhi.

With nine games remaining in the regular season, the Clippers are currently sitting pretty on the fifth spot in the Western Conference with a 38-35 win-loss record.

Los Angeles Clippers guard Paul George, in Tuesday night's 101-100 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, left the game late in the fourth quarter with a right leg injury.

Los Angeles Clippers guard Paul George, in Tuesday night's 101-100 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, left the game late in the fourth quarter with a right leg injury. The All-Star guard left the arena on a cart. Clippers coach Ty Lue spoke on him after the game and said that George is being evaluated right now. "[George is] still being evaluated right now," Lue said. "But I did see [the replay of the injury]. I didn't even know it looked like that until [an assistant coach] just showed me, so I didn't even know [what happened]," said Lue after the game. George landed awkwardly after his knee collided with Thunder guard Luguentz Dort when he was trying to get a rebound. The Guard immediately went down on the floor and stayed there for several minutes. He needed help to walk up to the locker room after getting up. Also Read: Ashwin lauds KL Rahul for 'doing very difficult role with ease', compares him with MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh George, however, did turn every head in the arena with an unbelievable 360-degree spinning dunk from the baseline. He scored 18 points, seven rebounds and five assists during the time he played in the game. At the post match conference, George's teammate Kawhi Leonard said he hasn't spoken to Paul yet and that Clippers, as a group, 'will see' how the team will adjust if the All-Star guard stays out for an extended period of time. "I haven't spoken to him yet. And I didn't see the play. I thought he just got hit in the face at the time and stayed down for a while," said Leonard. "We got a group of guys that still want to win, that like to play basketball, so we'll see what happens," added Kawhi. With nine games remaining in the regular season, the Clippers are currently sitting pretty on the fifth spot in the Western Conference with a 38-35 win-loss record.

NBA: Clippers' Paul George leaves game against Oklahoma City Thunder on a cart with leg injury

Basketball Hall of Famer Earvin 'Magic' Johnson has joined the group which is bidding to own the National Football League's (NFL) Washington Commanders franchise. The news, confirmed to ESPN by sources on Monday, said that Johnson is now part of the Josh Harris-led group in&nbsp;the bidding process.

If the deal comes through, this is will be the fourth team in which Johnson will have stakes as he already is a part owner of Major League Baseball's (MLB) Los Angeles Dodgers, Women league of National Basketball Association's (NBA) Los Angeles Sparks and Major League Soccer's (MLS) Los Angeles FC.

Notably, Johnson played for NBA's Los Angeles Lakers as a player and later got associated with the team in different roles, including as a coach.

Harris, who is leading the group which has bid for the ownership of the Washington Commanders, currently owns NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and National Hockey League's (NHL) New Jersey Devils.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-great-martina-navratilova-says-she-is-free-of-cancer-574151">Tennis great Martina Navratilova says she is free of cancer</a>

Josh Harris had earlier tried to buy the Denver Broncos last summer but the deal could not come through. Magic Johnson was also part of that process with Harris.&nbsp;

As for the Commanders, Forbes has listed the price of the franchise at $ 5.6 billion after the current owners, Dan and Tanya Snyder made their intention of making the&nbsp;franchise public in November last year.

Apart from Magic, a Washington D.C. billionaire, Mitchell Rales, with a net worth of $ 5.5 billion according to Forbes, has also joined the Josh Harris camp in the bidding process, further strengthening their position.

The involvement of Magic Johnson was first reported by Sportico, however, it is uncertain as of now how much the former basketball star would be investing.

Sources have also told ESPN that apart from the Harris group, NBA's Houston Rockets' owner Tilman Fertitta was another group who has visited the Commanders facility. There are a total of four groups in contention and the other two are anonymous so far.

The NFL owners are meeting next week in Phoenix but the deal, even if it happens, is expected to come through in late May sometime, informed the sources to ESPN.

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Basketball Hall of Famer Earvin 'Magic' Johnson has joined the group which is bidding to own the National Football League's (NFL) Washington Commanders franchise.

Basketball Hall of Famer Earvin 'Magic' Johnson has joined the group which is bidding to own the National Football League's (NFL) Washington Commanders franchise. The news, confirmed to ESPN by sources on Monday, said that Johnson is now part of the Josh Harris-led group in the bidding process. If the deal comes through, this is will be the fourth team in which Johnson will have stakes as he already is a part owner of Major League Baseball's (MLB) Los Angeles Dodgers, Women league of National Basketball Association's (NBA) Los Angeles Sparks and Major League Soccer's (MLS) Los Angeles FC. Notably, Johnson played for NBA's Los Angeles Lakers as a player and later got associated with the team in different roles, including as a coach. Harris, who is leading the group which has bid for the ownership of the Washington Commanders, currently owns NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and National Hockey League's (NHL) New Jersey Devils. Also Read: Tennis great Martina Navratilova says she is free of cancer Josh Harris had earlier tried to buy the Denver Broncos last summer but the deal could not come through. Magic Johnson was also part of that process with Harris. As for the Commanders, Forbes has listed the price of the franchise at $ 5.6 billion after the current owners, Dan and Tanya Snyder made their intention of making the franchise public in November last year. Apart from Magic, a Washington D.C. billionaire, Mitchell Rales, with a net worth of $ 5.5 billion according to Forbes, has also joined the Josh Harris camp in the bidding process, further strengthening their position. The involvement of Magic Johnson was first reported by Sportico, however, it is uncertain as of now how much the former basketball star would be investing. Sources have also told ESPN that apart from the Harris group, NBA's Houston Rockets' owner Tilman Fertitta was another group who has visited the Commanders facility. There are a total of four groups in contention and the other two are anonymous so far. The NFL owners are meeting next week in Phoenix but the deal, even if it happens, is expected to come through in late May sometime, informed the sources to ESPN. 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.

NFL: Earvin 'Magic' Johnson joins Josh Harris-led group bidding to buy Washington Commanders

Joel Embiid maintained his dominant scoring streak as the Philadelphia 76ers extended their winning streak to seven games with a 121-82 thrashing of the Charlotte Hornets on Friday.

Embiid, one of the front-runners for the NBA's Most Valuable Player award, rattled in another 38 points during a one-sided road victory.

The Sixers star is averaging 35 points a game in March and has not scored fewer than 31 in eight games this month.

Embiid's latest tally came on 16-of-21 shooting, with 13 rebounds and five assists.

"Home or road, it doesn't matter," Embiid said afterward. "We know what it takes offensively and defensively, everybody doing their job... tonight we did it as a team."

James Harden had a rare off-night with only 11 points after shooting 4-of-15 from the field, but the Sixers still had far too much firepower and defensive savvy for a Charlotte team that is second from the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

Tobias Harris added 18 points while Tyrese Maxey chipped in with 13.

Despite the one-sided nature of the win, Sixers coach Doc Rivers was pleased that his team emerged with a clean bill of health.

"It's just good to get the game over with and be healthy," said Rivers, who also took satisfaction from the Sixers' ruthless performance.

"It just shows that we are focused, and we are showing up and playing," he said.

"There is no guarantee each night how you're going to play, but there is a guarantee how you can show up -- and we're showing up every night."

Philadelphia improved to 47-22 with the win and are third in the East, behind leaders Milwaukee (50-20) and Boston (49-22).

<h2>Boston revival</h2>

Boston's revival continued with a 126-112 win on the road over the Portland Trail Blazers.

Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 34 points, while Jaylen Brown added 27.&nbsp;

Damian Lillard poured in 41 points in Portland's losing effort.

In other games Friday, Maxi Kleber nailed a 27-foot buzzer-beater as the Dallas Mavericks put a dent in the Los Angeles Lakers' postseason charge to snatch a sensational 111-110 road victory.

Kyrie Irving scored 38 points -- and provided the late assist for Kleber -- to set up a thrilling win for Dallas.&nbsp;

Irving's tally included 13 in the fourth quarter as Dallas overturned a late five-point deficit to claim the win.

The defeat dropped the Lakers to 10th in the Western Conference with a 34-37 record. Dallas meanwhile moved up to the sixth spot.

Elsewhere Friday, Golden State's poor road form continued with a 127-119 defeat at Atlanta, with Trae Young leading the Hawks' scoring with 25 points.

With the Warriors missing the defensive presence of the suspended Draymond Green, the reigning NBA champions dropped their 10th straight game on the road.

The Warriors are now 36-35 overall and sixth in a congested Western Conference table.

"Proud of our guys effort, we had our chances and had several shots in the last couple of minutes but just couldn't get anything to go," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said after the loss.

"These guys are fighting. I believe in them and I believe something good's going to happen with this group. We've just got to keep fighting and keep moving forward," added Kerr, brushing off suggestions that the Warriors' problems away from home were psychological.

"It's not mental," Kerr said. "We've been playing well... but it's hard to win on the road in this league. And we're just not getting it done."

Steph Curry led the Warriors scorers with 31 points, and six Golden State players finished in double figures.

In Chicago, DeMar DeRozan erupted for 49 points as the Bulls completed a 139-131 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Timberwolves' defeat was compounded by a worrying injury to star Anthony Edwards, who yelled in pain after an awkward landing on his right foot in the first quarter.

Edwards left the game and did not return before appearing on the bench late on wearing a protective boot.

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Joel Embiid maintained his dominant scoring streak as the Philadelphia 76ers extended their winning streak to seven games with a 121-82 thrashing of the Charlotte Hornets on Friday.

Joel Embiid maintained his dominant scoring streak as the Philadelphia 76ers extended their winning streak to seven games with a 121-82 thrashing of the Charlotte Hornets on Friday. Embiid, one of the front-runners for the NBA's Most Valuable Player award, rattled in another 38 points during a one-sided road victory. The Sixers star is averaging 35 points a game in March and has not scored fewer than 31 in eight games this month. Embiid's latest tally came on 16-of-21 shooting, with 13 rebounds and five assists. "Home or road, it doesn't matter," Embiid said afterward. "We know what it takes offensively and defensively, everybody doing their job... tonight we did it as a team." James Harden had a rare off-night with only 11 points after shooting 4-of-15 from the field, but the Sixers still had far too much firepower and defensive savvy for a Charlotte team that is second from the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Tobias Harris added 18 points while Tyrese Maxey chipped in with 13. Despite the one-sided nature of the win, Sixers coach Doc Rivers was pleased that his team emerged with a clean bill of health. "It's just good to get the game over with and be healthy," said Rivers, who also took satisfaction from the Sixers' ruthless performance. "It just shows that we are focused, and we are showing up and playing," he said. "There is no guarantee each night how you're going to play, but there is a guarantee how you can show up -- and we're showing up every night." Philadelphia improved to 47-22 with the win and are third in the East, behind leaders Milwaukee (50-20) and Boston (49-22). Boston revival Boston's revival continued with a 126-112 win on the road over the Portland Trail Blazers. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 34 points, while Jaylen Brown added 27. Damian Lillard poured in 41 points in Portland's losing effort. In other games Friday, Maxi Kleber nailed a 27-foot buzzer-beater as the Dallas Mavericks put a dent in the Los Angeles Lakers' postseason charge to snatch a sensational 111-110 road victory. Kyrie Irving scored 38 points -- and provided the late assist for Kleber -- to set up a thrilling win for Dallas. Irving's tally included 13 in the fourth quarter as Dallas overturned a late five-point deficit to claim the win. The defeat dropped the Lakers to 10th in the Western Conference with a 34-37 record. Dallas meanwhile moved up to the sixth spot. Elsewhere Friday, Golden State's poor road form continued with a 127-119 defeat at Atlanta, with Trae Young leading the Hawks' scoring with 25 points. With the Warriors missing the defensive presence of the suspended Draymond Green, the reigning NBA champions dropped their 10th straight game on the road. The Warriors are now 36-35 overall and sixth in a congested Western Conference table. "Proud of our guys effort, we had our chances and had several shots in the last couple of minutes but just couldn't get anything to go," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said after the loss. "These guys are fighting. I believe in them and I believe something good's going to happen with this group. We've just got to keep fighting and keep moving forward," added Kerr, brushing off suggestions that the Warriors' problems away from home were psychological. "It's not mental," Kerr said. "We've been playing well... but it's hard to win on the road in this league. And we're just not getting it done." Steph Curry led the Warriors scorers with 31 points, and six Golden State players finished in double figures. In Chicago, DeMar DeRozan erupted for 49 points as the Bulls completed a 139-131 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Timberwolves' defeat was compounded by a worrying injury to star Anthony Edwards, who yelled in pain after an awkward landing on his right foot in the first quarter. Edwards left the game and did not return before appearing on the bench late on wearing a protective boot. 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: Joel Embiid continues hot run as Philadelphia 76ers notch up seventh straight win

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