James Harden is joining the Brooklyn Nets in a blockbuster NBA trade from the Houston Rockets, US media reported Wednesday.

ESPN and The Athletic reported that the 2018 NBA MVP will head to the Nets in a trade that will see Harden reunited with former Oklahoma City Thunder team-mate Kevin Durant.

The 31-year-old played alongside Durant for three seasons in Oklahoma City between 2009 and 2012.

ESPN reported that the complex deal also involved the Indiana Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers.

In exchange for Harden, Houston received multiple players and draft picks as well as guard Caris LeVert.&nbsp;

LeVert was traded immediately to the Pacers in exchange for Victor Oladipo.

There was no immediate confirmation of the deal by Houston or Brooklyn.

Harden's move raises the prospect of the Nets emerging as a new super team, with the unhappy Rockets ace joining forces with Durant and Kyrie Irving.

Harden's exit from the Rockets had loomed ever closer, with team-mates complaining of his attitude in the locker room.

On Tuesday, Harden had lashed out after the Rockets were thumped 117-100 at home by the Los Angeles Lakers.

"I love this city," Harden said. "I literally have done everything that I can. I mean, this situation is crazy. It's something that I don't think can be fixed."

Team-mate John Wall, who arrived in Houston this year from the Washington Wizards, accused Harden of not being committed to the team.

"When you have certain guys that don't want to buy in, it's hard," said Wall.

On Wednesday, Harden was barred from team practice following his outburst.&nbsp;

"We felt it was best for James and best for the group for him not to be at practice," Rockets coach Stephen Silas told reporters on a video call.

Silas said Harden's criticisms had been "hard to hear."

"Especially when you don't believe it and you know it not to be true," he said.

The Rockets' DeMarcus Cousins meanwhile accused Harden of being "disrespectful" to the Houston locker room.&nbsp;

"Will he ever need to play with us again? I don't know, quite honestly don't care," Cousins said.&nbsp;

"He can feel however he wants to feel with the organization but the other 14 guys in the locker room have done nothing to him.

"So for us to be on the receiving end of some of the disrespectful comments &amp; antics, it's completely unfair to us."

Harden, an eight-time NBA All-Star and a prolific scorer, joined Houston in 2012 after starting his career in Oklahoma City.

However he was unable to guide the Rockets to an NBA Championship during that time, and instead suffered a string of playoff disappointments, with Houston failing to make the NBA finals once in eight straight playoff appearances.

James Harden is joining the Brooklyn Nets in a blockbuster NBA trade from the Houston Rockets, US media reported Wednesday. ESPN and The Athletic reported that the 2018 NBA MVP will head to the Nets in a trade that will see Harden reunited with former Oklahoma City Thunder team-mate Kevin Durant.

James Harden is joining the Brooklyn Nets in a blockbuster NBA trade from the Houston Rockets, US media reported Wednesday. ESPN and The Athletic reported that the 2018 NBA MVP will head to the Nets in a trade that will see Harden reunited with former Oklahoma City Thunder team-mate Kevin Durant. The 31-year-old played alongside Durant for three seasons in Oklahoma City between 2009 and 2012. ESPN reported that the complex deal also involved the Indiana Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers. In exchange for Harden, Houston received multiple players and draft picks as well as guard Caris LeVert. LeVert was traded immediately to the Pacers in exchange for Victor Oladipo. There was no immediate confirmation of the deal by Houston or Brooklyn. Harden's move raises the prospect of the Nets emerging as a new super team, with the unhappy Rockets ace joining forces with Durant and Kyrie Irving. Harden's exit from the Rockets had loomed ever closer, with team-mates complaining of his attitude in the locker room. On Tuesday, Harden had lashed out after the Rockets were thumped 117-100 at home by the Los Angeles Lakers. "I love this city," Harden said. "I literally have done everything that I can. I mean, this situation is crazy. It's something that I don't think can be fixed." Team-mate John Wall, who arrived in Houston this year from the Washington Wizards, accused Harden of not being committed to the team. "When you have certain guys that don't want to buy in, it's hard," said Wall. On Wednesday, Harden was barred from team practice following his outburst. "We felt it was best for James and best for the group for him not to be at practice," Rockets coach Stephen Silas told reporters on a video call. Silas said Harden's criticisms had been "hard to hear." "Especially when you don't believe it and you know it not to be true," he said. The Rockets' DeMarcus Cousins meanwhile accused Harden of being "disrespectful" to the Houston locker room. "Will he ever need to play with us again? I don't know, quite honestly don't care," Cousins said. "He can feel however he wants to feel with the organization but the other 14 guys in the locker room have done nothing to him. "So for us to be on the receiving end of some of the disrespectful comments & antics, it's completely unfair to us." Harden, an eight-time NBA All-Star and a prolific scorer, joined Houston in 2012 after starting his career in Oklahoma City. However he was unable to guide the Rockets to an NBA Championship during that time, and instead suffered a string of playoff disappointments, with Houston failing to make the NBA finals once in eight straight playoff appearances.

James Harden joining Brooklyn Nets in blockbuster deal: reports

Houston star James Harden's frustration with the Rockets boiled over Tuesday after the team's second blowout loss to the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers in three days.

Harden, the NBA's top scorer the past three seasons, finished with 16 points on five-of-16 shooting in the 117-100 home loss, in which the Lakers never trailed and led by as many as 30 points.

"I love this city," Harden said. "I literally have done everything that I can. I mean, this situation is crazy. It's something that I don't think can be fixed."

The season opened last month with Harden the center of trade-demand reports.

The Rockets have reportedly discussed possible trades with various teams, but they expect a big return for their star and no deal is yet in the offing.

Guard John Wall, who arrived in Houston this season in the trade that sent Russell Westbrook to the Washington Wizards, admitted that team chemistry was lacking.

"When you have certain guys that don’t want to buy in, it's hard," said Wall, who scored 10 points and handed out five assists on Tuesday.

Specifically, Wall said when asked, forging a relationship with Harden has been difficult.

"It's been a little rocky, not going to lie about that," Wall said. "I don't think it's been the best it could be. That's all I can say."

At 3-6, the Rockets are second from bottom in the Western Conference.

After back-to-back defeats they take on the Spurs in San Antonio on Thursday.

Houston star James Harden's frustration with the Rockets boiled over Tuesday after the team's second blowout loss to the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers in three days.

Houston star James Harden's frustration with the Rockets boiled over Tuesday after the team's second blowout loss to the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers in three days. Harden, the NBA's top scorer the past three seasons, finished with 16 points on five-of-16 shooting in the 117-100 home loss, in which the Lakers never trailed and led by as many as 30 points. "I love this city," Harden said. "I literally have done everything that I can. I mean, this situation is crazy. It's something that I don't think can be fixed." The season opened last month with Harden the center of trade-demand reports. The Rockets have reportedly discussed possible trades with various teams, but they expect a big return for their star and no deal is yet in the offing. Guard John Wall, who arrived in Houston this season in the trade that sent Russell Westbrook to the Washington Wizards, admitted that team chemistry was lacking. "When you have certain guys that don’t want to buy in, it's hard," said Wall, who scored 10 points and handed out five assists on Tuesday. Specifically, Wall said when asked, forging a relationship with Harden has been difficult. "It's been a little rocky, not going to lie about that," Wall said. "I don't think it's been the best it could be. That's all I can say." At 3-6, the Rockets are second from bottom in the Western Conference. After back-to-back defeats they take on the Spurs in San Antonio on Thursday.

Rockets' Harden after loss to Lakers: situation can't be fixed

Two more NBA games were postponed by the league on Monday due to Covid-19 and contract tracing issues, bringing the total to four in the virus-shortened 2020-21 season.

The New Orleans Pelicans game at Dallas on Monday and the Boston Celtics game Tuesday at Chicago were both delayed over unspecified health and safety protocol issues.

The league also said it would meet with the National Basketball Players Association on Monday about possible modifications in the joint safety protocols.

There has been concern expressed by coaches about the health and safety of players being forced into playing unusually high numbers of minutes due to depleted rosters being forced to take the court.

The latest postponements will mark three consecutive days of lost games for the NBA after Miami's matchup on Sunday against the Celtics in Boston was called off because the Heat were unable to field a minimum eight players due to Covid-19 issues.

The Celtics had been reduced to the minimum eight players by virus issues with seven players missing due to the virus or contact tracing.

The Heat were still scheduled to play on Tuesday night in Philadelphia, where the 76ers had only a minimum eight available players, just seven of them healthy, for a home loss Saturday to Denver.

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported that the Heat's available players would travel from Boston to Philadelphia while players deemed at risk through contact tracing would be flown to Florida to quarantine.

The first NBA game to be postponed this season due to Covid-19 issues was on December 23 between Oklahoma City at Houston.

Dallas has three players listed as out due to the NBA Covid-19 protocols -- Jalen Brunson, Josh Richardson and Dorian Finney-Smith -- and Maxi Kleber listed as questionable for the same reason.

Scott Tomlin, the Mavericks' vice president of basketball communications, told the Dallas Morning News that the team would have had at least eight players available on Monday, but the league chose to postpone the contest "to ensure the health and safety of players, coaches and other personnel" as contact tracing continues.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said before the season started on December 22 that the league, which completed the disrupted 2019-20 season in a quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida, expected disruptions as it forged ahead in teams' home markets with coronavirus still surging.

"We do anticipate there will be bumps in the road along the way," Silver said in December, adding that's why the schedule for only the first half of the season had been released.

"We know it's possible we may have to reschedule games along the way," he said.

Philadelphia coach Doc Rivers said Saturday he trusted the procedures the league had put in place to limit spread of Covid-19, but he said losing so many players to contact tracing posed a danger to those remaining with increased minutes on the floor, wear and tear and the push to perhaps play through injury.

"That's long-term health with the accumulation of games," he said. "So I'm actually more concerned about that than I am actually about Covid."

Two more NBA games were postponed by the league on Monday due to Covid-19 and contract tracing issues, bringing the total to four in the virus-shortened 2020-21 season.

Two more NBA games were postponed by the league on Monday due to Covid-19 and contract tracing issues, bringing the total to four in the virus-shortened 2020-21 season. The New Orleans Pelicans game at Dallas on Monday and the Boston Celtics game Tuesday at Chicago were both delayed over unspecified health and safety protocol issues. The league also said it would meet with the National Basketball Players Association on Monday about possible modifications in the joint safety protocols. There has been concern expressed by coaches about the health and safety of players being forced into playing unusually high numbers of minutes due to depleted rosters being forced to take the court. The latest postponements will mark three consecutive days of lost games for the NBA after Miami's matchup on Sunday against the Celtics in Boston was called off because the Heat were unable to field a minimum eight players due to Covid-19 issues. The Celtics had been reduced to the minimum eight players by virus issues with seven players missing due to the virus or contact tracing. The Heat were still scheduled to play on Tuesday night in Philadelphia, where the 76ers had only a minimum eight available players, just seven of them healthy, for a home loss Saturday to Denver. The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported that the Heat's available players would travel from Boston to Philadelphia while players deemed at risk through contact tracing would be flown to Florida to quarantine. The first NBA game to be postponed this season due to Covid-19 issues was on December 23 between Oklahoma City at Houston. Dallas has three players listed as out due to the NBA Covid-19 protocols -- Jalen Brunson, Josh Richardson and Dorian Finney-Smith -- and Maxi Kleber listed as questionable for the same reason. Scott Tomlin, the Mavericks' vice president of basketball communications, told the Dallas Morning News that the team would have had at least eight players available on Monday, but the league chose to postpone the contest "to ensure the health and safety of players, coaches and other personnel" as contact tracing continues. NBA commissioner Adam Silver said before the season started on December 22 that the league, which completed the disrupted 2019-20 season in a quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida, expected disruptions as it forged ahead in teams' home markets with coronavirus still surging. "We do anticipate there will be bumps in the road along the way," Silver said in December, adding that's why the schedule for only the first half of the season had been released. "We know it's possible we may have to reschedule games along the way," he said. Philadelphia coach Doc Rivers said Saturday he trusted the procedures the league had put in place to limit spread of Covid-19, but he said losing so many players to contact tracing posed a danger to those remaining with increased minutes on the floor, wear and tear and the push to perhaps play through injury. "That's long-term health with the accumulation of games," he said. "So I'm actually more concerned about that than I am actually about Covid."

NBA postpones games at Dallas and Chicago due to Covid-19

As violence at the US Capitol underlined deep divisions in America on Wednesday, NBA players said the incident helped renew their commitment to fight racial injustice.

Boston Celtics and Miami Heat players knelt during the national anthem before their game in Miami on Wednesday, hours after supporters of President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol as legislators met to certify Joe Biden's victory in the November election.

The players issued a joint statement referring not only to the chaotic events in Washington but also to the decision on Tuesday by prosecutors in Wisconsin not to charge the white police officer who shot and paralyzed Black man Jacob Blake in Kenosha last August.

Protests of Blake's shooting brought the NBA to a standstill for three days in August in a protest of racial injustice that soon spread across an array of sports.

"2021 is a new year, but some things have not changed," the Celtics and Heat players said in their statement.

"We play tonight's game with a heavy heart after yesterday's decision in Kenosha and knowing that protesters in our nation's capital are treated differently by political leaders depending on what side of certain issues they are on.

"The drastic difference between the way protesters this past spring and summer were treated and the encouragement given to today's protesters who acted illegally just shows how much more work we have to do.

"We have decided to play tonight's game to try to bring joy into people's lives.

"But we must not forget the injustices in our society, and we will continue to use our voices and our platform to highlight these issues and do everything we can to work for a more equal and just America."

In Philadelphia, 76ers coach Doc Rivers was blunt in his assessment of the scene at the Capitol.

"It's pretty disturbing and sad," he said. "I keep hearing, 'This is an attack on democracy.' It's not. Democracy will prevail. It always does.

"It shows a lot though. I'll say it because I don't think a lot of people want to -- could you imagine today if those were all Black people storming into the Capitol and what would've happened?

"It's a sad day in a lot of ways. But it's a part of what we are and so we have to solve it."

In Milwaukee, the host Bucks and the Detroit Pistons both took turnovers on their first possessions.

The Bucks won the opening tip off and NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo simply held the ball as all the players took a knee. On the ensuing Detroit possession, Pistons star Blake Griffin held the ball and all 10 players on court took a knee again.

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr admitted that it was hard to concentrate on basketball.

"I started the day thinking about how we were going to guard Lou Williams without fouling him," Kerr said. "Suddenly that didn't seem quite as important.

"Just a bizarre scene, but a pretty clear reminder that the truth matters," Kerr said.

"A legitimate election is suddenly questioned by millions of people, including many of the people who are leading our country in government, because we've decided to -- over the last few years -- allow lies to be told. So, this is who we are," Kerr said. "You reap what you sow."

As violence at the US Capitol underlined deep divisions in America on Wednesday, NBA players said the incident helped renew their commitment to fight racial injustice.

As violence at the US Capitol underlined deep divisions in America on Wednesday, NBA players said the incident helped renew their commitment to fight racial injustice. Boston Celtics and Miami Heat players knelt during the national anthem before their game in Miami on Wednesday, hours after supporters of President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol as legislators met to certify Joe Biden's victory in the November election. The players issued a joint statement referring not only to the chaotic events in Washington but also to the decision on Tuesday by prosecutors in Wisconsin not to charge the white police officer who shot and paralyzed Black man Jacob Blake in Kenosha last August. Protests of Blake's shooting brought the NBA to a standstill for three days in August in a protest of racial injustice that soon spread across an array of sports. "2021 is a new year, but some things have not changed," the Celtics and Heat players said in their statement. "We play tonight's game with a heavy heart after yesterday's decision in Kenosha and knowing that protesters in our nation's capital are treated differently by political leaders depending on what side of certain issues they are on. "The drastic difference between the way protesters this past spring and summer were treated and the encouragement given to today's protesters who acted illegally just shows how much more work we have to do. "We have decided to play tonight's game to try to bring joy into people's lives. "But we must not forget the injustices in our society, and we will continue to use our voices and our platform to highlight these issues and do everything we can to work for a more equal and just America." In Philadelphia, 76ers coach Doc Rivers was blunt in his assessment of the scene at the Capitol. "It's pretty disturbing and sad," he said. "I keep hearing, 'This is an attack on democracy.' It's not. Democracy will prevail. It always does. "It shows a lot though. I'll say it because I don't think a lot of people want to -- could you imagine today if those were all Black people storming into the Capitol and what would've happened? "It's a sad day in a lot of ways. But it's a part of what we are and so we have to solve it." In Milwaukee, the host Bucks and the Detroit Pistons both took turnovers on their first possessions. The Bucks won the opening tip off and NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo simply held the ball as all the players took a knee. On the ensuing Detroit possession, Pistons star Blake Griffin held the ball and all 10 players on court took a knee again. Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr admitted that it was hard to concentrate on basketball. "I started the day thinking about how we were going to guard Lou Williams without fouling him," Kerr said. "Suddenly that didn't seem quite as important. "Just a bizarre scene, but a pretty clear reminder that the truth matters," Kerr said. "A legitimate election is suddenly questioned by millions of people, including many of the people who are leading our country in government, because we've decided to -- over the last few years -- allow lies to be told. So, this is who we are," Kerr said. "You reap what you sow."

After chaos at Capitol NBA players reaffirm racial justice commitment

Milwaukee's two-time reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo poured in 43 points Monday, powering the Bucks to a 125-115 NBA victory over the Detroit Pistons.

Antetokounmpo connected on 17 of 24 shots from the field. He made a brace of three pointers and was simply unstoppable in the paint.

His was just one of the outstanding performances on a night that featured a 40-point outburst from Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum and a triple-double for Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks.

Antetokounmpo set the tone early in Milwaukee, scoring 30 of the Bucks' 67 first-half points.

Detroit managed to trim the deficit to 118-110 with 2:38 left to play, but Antetokounmpo stopped their momentum with a block of a driving Sekou Doumbouya shot, then grabbed the rebound of teammate Donte DiVincenzo's miss for a put-back basket that effectively ended the Pistons' comeback bid.

"The blocked shot and the put-back was big," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said, adding that he wouldn't have liked to see the deficit whittled further.

Detroit, playing without star Blake Griffin, also saw rookie Killian Hayes go down in the third quarter with a hip injury that kept him out the rest of the game.

Boston's Tatum scored 21 of his season-best 40 in the second quarter as the Celtics rallied from an early deficit to beat the Toronto Raptors 126-114.

Tatum connected on 11 of 19 shots from the field and was a perfect 13-for-13 from the free throw line as he fell one point shy of matching his career best.

The first meeting of the teams since Boston eliminated Toronto in the second round of the playoffs in September was in Tampa, Florida, where the Raptors are based, amid continuing coronavirus restrictions on travel to Canada.

The Dallas Mavericks won a Texas tussle with the Rockets in Houston on the back of Doncic's first triple-double of the season.

Doncic, who sat out Sunday with a quadriceps contusion, returned with a vengeance with 33 points, 16 rebounds and 11 assists as Dallas held off a late Rockets push for a 113-100 victory.

The Slovenian star, still just 21, notched his 26th career triple-double. Tim Hardway Jr. added 30 points off the bench for Dallas, who led by as many as 16 in the third quarter.

The Rockets, with 23 points from Christian Wood and 21 from James Harden, tied it up with 10 minutes remaining, but the Mavericks relentlessly pulled away again.

While Mavs coach Rick Carlisle conceded that Doncic came into the season "behind the curve" on his conditioning, he said his young star is clearly going in the right direction.

"You can tell on the floor," Carlisle said. "You can see that he's getting better and better as each day goes by."

The Philadelphia 76ers improved their league-leading record to 6-1 with a 118-101 victory over the Charlotte Hornets.

Tobias Harris scored 22 points to lead seven Sixers players in double figures in the wire-to-wire win.

Joel Embiid added 14 points and 11 rebounds, Danny Green contributed 13 points, and Ben Simmons had 12 points, 10 rebounds and six assists for Philadelphia.

<h2>- Knicks find a way -</h2>

New York's Julius Randle scored 28 points and pulled down 17 rebounds and Austin Rivers drilled a late three-pointer that helped the Knicks erase a 15-point third-quarter deficit in a 113-108 victory over the Hawks in Atlanta.

In a back-and-forth battle, the Knicks seized an early double-digit lead only for Atlanta to take a four-point lead into halftime.

The Hawks pushed their lead to 15 with less than five minutes left in the third, but they couldn't hang on.

"We didn't play great but we found a way to win," Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said.

Indiana's Malcolm Brogdon delivered the game-winner as the Pacers broke the New Orleans Pelicans' hearts 118-116 in overtime, having rallied from six points down with less than a minute remaining in regulation.

There was no such drama for Golden State as Stephen Curry followed up Sunday's 62-point outburst with 30 points, nine rebounds and eight assists in the Warriors' 137-106 romp over the Sacramento Kings.

Milwaukee's two-time reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo poured in 43 points Monday, powering the Bucks to a 125-115 NBA victory over the Detroit Pistons.

Milwaukee's two-time reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo poured in 43 points Monday, powering the Bucks to a 125-115 NBA victory over the Detroit Pistons. Antetokounmpo connected on 17 of 24 shots from the field. He made a brace of three pointers and was simply unstoppable in the paint. His was just one of the outstanding performances on a night that featured a 40-point outburst from Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum and a triple-double for Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks. Antetokounmpo set the tone early in Milwaukee, scoring 30 of the Bucks' 67 first-half points. Detroit managed to trim the deficit to 118-110 with 2:38 left to play, but Antetokounmpo stopped their momentum with a block of a driving Sekou Doumbouya shot, then grabbed the rebound of teammate Donte DiVincenzo's miss for a put-back basket that effectively ended the Pistons' comeback bid. "The blocked shot and the put-back was big," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said, adding that he wouldn't have liked to see the deficit whittled further. Detroit, playing without star Blake Griffin, also saw rookie Killian Hayes go down in the third quarter with a hip injury that kept him out the rest of the game. Boston's Tatum scored 21 of his season-best 40 in the second quarter as the Celtics rallied from an early deficit to beat the Toronto Raptors 126-114. Tatum connected on 11 of 19 shots from the field and was a perfect 13-for-13 from the free throw line as he fell one point shy of matching his career best. The first meeting of the teams since Boston eliminated Toronto in the second round of the playoffs in September was in Tampa, Florida, where the Raptors are based, amid continuing coronavirus restrictions on travel to Canada. The Dallas Mavericks won a Texas tussle with the Rockets in Houston on the back of Doncic's first triple-double of the season. Doncic, who sat out Sunday with a quadriceps contusion, returned with a vengeance with 33 points, 16 rebounds and 11 assists as Dallas held off a late Rockets push for a 113-100 victory. The Slovenian star, still just 21, notched his 26th career triple-double. Tim Hardway Jr. added 30 points off the bench for Dallas, who led by as many as 16 in the third quarter. The Rockets, with 23 points from Christian Wood and 21 from James Harden, tied it up with 10 minutes remaining, but the Mavericks relentlessly pulled away again. While Mavs coach Rick Carlisle conceded that Doncic came into the season "behind the curve" on his conditioning, he said his young star is clearly going in the right direction. "You can tell on the floor," Carlisle said. "You can see that he's getting better and better as each day goes by." The Philadelphia 76ers improved their league-leading record to 6-1 with a 118-101 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. Tobias Harris scored 22 points to lead seven Sixers players in double figures in the wire-to-wire win. Joel Embiid added 14 points and 11 rebounds, Danny Green contributed 13 points, and Ben Simmons had 12 points, 10 rebounds and six assists for Philadelphia. - Knicks find a way - New York's Julius Randle scored 28 points and pulled down 17 rebounds and Austin Rivers drilled a late three-pointer that helped the Knicks erase a 15-point third-quarter deficit in a 113-108 victory over the Hawks in Atlanta. In a back-and-forth battle, the Knicks seized an early double-digit lead only for Atlanta to take a four-point lead into halftime. The Hawks pushed their lead to 15 with less than five minutes left in the third, but they couldn't hang on. "We didn't play great but we found a way to win," Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said. Indiana's Malcolm Brogdon delivered the game-winner as the Pacers broke the New Orleans Pelicans' hearts 118-116 in overtime, having rallied from six points down with less than a minute remaining in regulation. There was no such drama for Golden State as Stephen Curry followed up Sunday's 62-point outburst with 30 points, nine rebounds and eight assists in the Warriors' 137-106 romp over the Sacramento Kings.

Antetokounmpo's 43 points fuel Bucks, Tatum scores 40 in Celtics win

Former WNBA player Becky Hammon has become the first woman to direct a team in an NBA contest, describing the experience as "a big deal, it's a substantial moment."

Hammon made history Wednesday in the Los Angeles Lakers' 121-107 win over the San Antonio Spurs, taking over the Spurs' bench duties when head coach Gregg Popovich was ejected in the first half.

"I've been a part of this organization, I got traded here in 2007, so I've been in San Antonio and part of the Spurs and sports organization with the Stars and everything for 13 years," Hammon said. "So I have a lot of time invested, and they have a lot of time invested in me, in building me and getting me better."

Popovich received a technical foul and was thrown out of the game with 3:56 remaining in the second quarter for arguing with a referee as his team trailed the Lakers 52-41.

"He officially pointed at me. That was it," Hammon said. "Said, 'You got 'em,' and that was it. Very Pop-like."

Vice President-elect Kamala Harris was among those to congratulate Hammon on social media saying she hopes more ex-WNBA players can land coaching jobs in the NBA.

"Congrats, @BeckyHammon. You may be the first, but I know you certainly won't be the last."

Hammon is in her seventh season on the San Antonio coaching staff.&nbsp; Hammon was a six-time all-star in the WNBA with teams in New York and Texas.

Former WNBA player Becky Hammon has become the first woman to direct a team in an NBA contest, describing the experience as "a big deal, it's a substantial moment.

Former WNBA player Becky Hammon has become the first woman to direct a team in an NBA contest, describing the experience as "a big deal, it's a substantial moment." Hammon made history Wednesday in the Los Angeles Lakers' 121-107 win over the San Antonio Spurs, taking over the Spurs' bench duties when head coach Gregg Popovich was ejected in the first half. "I've been a part of this organization, I got traded here in 2007, so I've been in San Antonio and part of the Spurs and sports organization with the Stars and everything for 13 years," Hammon said. "So I have a lot of time invested, and they have a lot of time invested in me, in building me and getting me better." Popovich received a technical foul and was thrown out of the game with 3:56 remaining in the second quarter for arguing with a referee as his team trailed the Lakers 52-41. "He officially pointed at me. That was it," Hammon said. "Said, 'You got 'em,' and that was it. Very Pop-like." Vice President-elect Kamala Harris was among those to congratulate Hammon on social media saying she hopes more ex-WNBA players can land coaching jobs in the NBA. "Congrats, @BeckyHammon. You may be the first, but I know you certainly won't be the last." Hammon is in her seventh season on the San Antonio coaching staff. Hammon was a six-time all-star in the WNBA with teams in New York and Texas.

Hammon makes history by becoming first woman to direct NBA team

The NBA is expected to require its players to wear tracking devices on team buses and airplanes in its ongoing fight to control the spread of the coronavirus, US media reported on Thursday.

The sensor program will go into effect on January 7 and will involve players and team officials, including coaches, American sports broadcaster ESPN said.&nbsp;

The idea is to identify which club members would need to be quarantined if someone on the team tests positive for Covid-19. The sensor lets the wearer know when they come within six feet of someone who is also wearing a sensor.

The players would not have to wear them in the team hotel when they are on the road, or during games.

The United States has been hit harder than any other country during the global pandemic with close to 20 million cases and 344,000 deaths,

The NBA is expected to require its players to wear tracking devices on team buses and airplanes in its ongoing fight to control the spread of the coronavirus, US media reported on Thursday.

The NBA is expected to require its players to wear tracking devices on team buses and airplanes in its ongoing fight to control the spread of the coronavirus, US media reported on Thursday. The sensor program will go into effect on January 7 and will involve players and team officials, including coaches, American sports broadcaster ESPN said. The idea is to identify which club members would need to be quarantined if someone on the team tests positive for Covid-19. The sensor lets the wearer know when they come within six feet of someone who is also wearing a sensor. The players would not have to wear them in the team hotel when they are on the road, or during games. The United States has been hit harder than any other country during the global pandemic with close to 20 million cases and 344,000 deaths,

NBA to require players to wear Covid tracking devices: US media

The Milwaukee Bucks set an NBA record for three-pointers in a game, draining 29 from beyond the arc in a 144-97 blowout win over the Miami Heat on Tuesday.

The Heat, who stunned the top-seeded Bucks in the second round of the 2020 Eastern Conference playoffs en route to the NBA Finals, never got a look in, trailing by as many as 51 in a game Milwaukee led all the way.

Sam Merrill drilled the record-breaking 28th three-pointer of the game, surpassing the 27 set by the Houston Rockets against the Phoenix Suns on April 7, 2019.

Jrue Holiday had six three-pointers on the way to 24 points. Khris Middleton, who led the Bucks with 25 points, made four of five from three-point range.

Starting guard Donte DiVincenzo's 17 points included five three-pointers, and Brook Lopez had three treys on the way to 14 points.

Two-time reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo was the only Bucks starter not to make a three-pointer, coming up empty on two attempts in a nine-point performance.

His brother Thanasis Antetokounmpo drained one three-pointer for the family on the way to five points off the bench for the Bucks, who simply steamrolled a Heat team that was without injured forward Jimmy Butler.

"Honestly, (we) just played hard," Holiday said. "We know the Heat way and how they're going to come out and play no matter who's playing.

"So we just wanted to take that approach."

It was a bounce-back win for the Bucks, who were blown out 130-110 by the Knicks in New York on Sunday.

"Last game in New York, we didn't show what we wanted to show," Holiday said.

They left no doubt in this one, leading by as many as 24 points on the way to a 46-26 first-quarter lead and never let up.

"Some nights, the basketball golds are with you a little bit, and it was probably one of those nights for us," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said.

"But I liked our defense, too. I think the energy on both ends of the court feeds and builds on each other and good things will happen."

The Bucks' previous record for three-pointers in a game was 22, against the Sacramento Kings on November 4, 2018.

The most the Heat had given up before was 24.

"It looked like they had been thinking about this game for 80 days," said Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, whose team will get a chance to avenge the embarrassing defeat when they host the Bucks again on Wednesday.

The Los Angeles Clippers also rebounded from a big defeat.

Two days after a 124-73 loss to the Dallas Mavericks the Clippers beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-101.

Lou Williams scored 20 points off the bench to lead seven Clippers players who scored in double figures.

"We knew coming tonight we had to do better," said Clippers center Serge Ibaka, who scored 16 points. "We had to be aggressive, just play team basketball."

The Philadelphia 76ers, coming off a lopsided loss to Cleveland, beat the Toronto Raptors 100-93.

Center Joel Embiid, who sat out Sunday's 24-point loss to the Cavaliers with a tight back, led the Sixers with 29 points and 16 rebounds.

<h2>- Randle leads Knicks -</h2>

Elsewhere, Julius Randle posted a triple-double of 28 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists to lead the New York Knicks to a 95-86 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

But Russell Westbrook's triple-double of 21 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists -- his third in as many appearances in the young season -- again went for nothing as his Washington Wizards fell 115-107 to the Chicago Bulls.

Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 23 points, and Wendell Carter Jr. added a double-double of 10 points and 12 rebounds as Chicago notched their first win of the season.

Denver center Nikola Jokic also had a triple-double in a losing effort, his 26 points, 11 rebounds and 12 assists not enough in the Nuggets' 125-115 loss to the Sacramento Kings -- who were led by the 24 points of De'Aaron Fox.

The Milwaukee Bucks set an NBA record for three-pointers in a game, draining 29 from beyond the arc in a 144-97 blowout win over the Miami Heat on Tuesday. The Heat, who stunned the top-seeded Bucks in the second round of the 2020 Eastern Conference playoffs en route to the NBA Finals, never got a look in, trailing by as many as 51 in a game Milwaukee led all the way.

The Milwaukee Bucks set an NBA record for three-pointers in a game, draining 29 from beyond the arc in a 144-97 blowout win over the Miami Heat on Tuesday. The Heat, who stunned the top-seeded Bucks in the second round of the 2020 Eastern Conference playoffs en route to the NBA Finals, never got a look in, trailing by as many as 51 in a game Milwaukee led all the way. Sam Merrill drilled the record-breaking 28th three-pointer of the game, surpassing the 27 set by the Houston Rockets against the Phoenix Suns on April 7, 2019. Jrue Holiday had six three-pointers on the way to 24 points. Khris Middleton, who led the Bucks with 25 points, made four of five from three-point range. Starting guard Donte DiVincenzo's 17 points included five three-pointers, and Brook Lopez had three treys on the way to 14 points. Two-time reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo was the only Bucks starter not to make a three-pointer, coming up empty on two attempts in a nine-point performance. His brother Thanasis Antetokounmpo drained one three-pointer for the family on the way to five points off the bench for the Bucks, who simply steamrolled a Heat team that was without injured forward Jimmy Butler. "Honestly, (we) just played hard," Holiday said. "We know the Heat way and how they're going to come out and play no matter who's playing. "So we just wanted to take that approach." It was a bounce-back win for the Bucks, who were blown out 130-110 by the Knicks in New York on Sunday. "Last game in New York, we didn't show what we wanted to show," Holiday said. They left no doubt in this one, leading by as many as 24 points on the way to a 46-26 first-quarter lead and never let up. "Some nights, the basketball golds are with you a little bit, and it was probably one of those nights for us," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said. "But I liked our defense, too. I think the energy on both ends of the court feeds and builds on each other and good things will happen." The Bucks' previous record for three-pointers in a game was 22, against the Sacramento Kings on November 4, 2018. The most the Heat had given up before was 24. "It looked like they had been thinking about this game for 80 days," said Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, whose team will get a chance to avenge the embarrassing defeat when they host the Bucks again on Wednesday. The Los Angeles Clippers also rebounded from a big defeat. Two days after a 124-73 loss to the Dallas Mavericks the Clippers beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-101. Lou Williams scored 20 points off the bench to lead seven Clippers players who scored in double figures. "We knew coming tonight we had to do better," said Clippers center Serge Ibaka, who scored 16 points. "We had to be aggressive, just play team basketball." The Philadelphia 76ers, coming off a lopsided loss to Cleveland, beat the Toronto Raptors 100-93. Center Joel Embiid, who sat out Sunday's 24-point loss to the Cavaliers with a tight back, led the Sixers with 29 points and 16 rebounds. - Randle leads Knicks - Elsewhere, Julius Randle posted a triple-double of 28 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists to lead the New York Knicks to a 95-86 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. But Russell Westbrook's triple-double of 21 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists -- his third in as many appearances in the young season -- again went for nothing as his Washington Wizards fell 115-107 to the Chicago Bulls. Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 23 points, and Wendell Carter Jr. added a double-double of 10 points and 12 rebounds as Chicago notched their first win of the season. Denver center Nikola Jokic also had a triple-double in a losing effort, his 26 points, 11 rebounds and 12 assists not enough in the Nuggets' 125-115 loss to the Sacramento Kings -- who were led by the 24 points of De'Aaron Fox.

Bucks' long-range barrage buries Heat, Clippers bounce back

Philadelphia 76ers' president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, whose tweet last year about Hong Kong protesters led to an NBA-China rift, is in trouble again for another social media posting.

The NBA said Monday it has issued Morey a $50,000 (40,961 euro) fine for violating the league's anti-tampering rule.

The penalty was imposed for a since-deleted social media post Morey made on December 20 regarding Houston Rockets star James Harden, the NBA's top scorer each of the past three seasons.

Harden has said he wants to be traded from the Rockets and one of the teams he indicated he would accept a deal to join was the 76ers.

The tweet celebrated a feat done by Harden a year earlier.

Morey&nbsp;knows Harden's talents well. Morey had served as general manager of the Rockets from 2007 until departing this past October and then joining the 76ers last month.

In October 2019, Morey sent tweets supportive of protests in Hong Kong, leading China to stop NBA television coverage for a year and sever sponsorship ties and other deals.

The 76ers are off to a 2-1 start to the 2020-21 campaign while the Rockets lost their opener after having a game postponed when they could not field a minimum eight players.

Absences were due to Covid-19 issues, including Harden needing to be isolated and tested after appearing at a party in violation of NBA safety protocols.

Philadelphia 76ers' president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, whose tweet last year about Hong Kong protesters led to an NBA-China rift, is in trouble again for another social media posting.

Philadelphia 76ers' president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, whose tweet last year about Hong Kong protesters led to an NBA-China rift, is in trouble again for another social media posting. The NBA said Monday it has issued Morey a $50,000 (40,961 euro) fine for violating the league's anti-tampering rule. The penalty was imposed for a since-deleted social media post Morey made on December 20 regarding Houston Rockets star James Harden, the NBA's top scorer each of the past three seasons. Harden has said he wants to be traded from the Rockets and one of the teams he indicated he would accept a deal to join was the 76ers. The tweet celebrated a feat done by Harden a year earlier. Morey knows Harden's talents well. Morey had served as general manager of the Rockets from 2007 until departing this past October and then joining the 76ers last month. In October 2019, Morey sent tweets supportive of protests in Hong Kong, leading China to stop NBA television coverage for a year and sever sponsorship ties and other deals. The 76ers are off to a 2-1 start to the 2020-21 campaign while the Rockets lost their opener after having a game postponed when they could not field a minimum eight players. Absences were due to Covid-19 issues, including Harden needing to be isolated and tested after appearing at a party in violation of NBA safety protocols.

NBA fine 76ers exec Morey $50,000 for Harden tweet

NBA game on the second day of the new season has been postponed due to coronavirus and Rockets star James Harden was fined for violating protocols.&nbsp;

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On Wednesday, the game between Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center in Houston was postponed due to league's health and safety protocols.

"The National Basketball Association game scheduled for tonight between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center has been postponed in accordance with the league's Health and Safety Protocols," the NBA said in a statement.

James Harden was unavailable for the match against the Thunder due to a violation of the health and safety protocols.

NBA on Wednesday announced that Harden has been fined $50,000, saying the Rockets guard violated rules when he attended a private indoor party on Monday. According to the rules of the league, attending indoor social gatherings of 15 or more people or entering bars, lounges, clubs or similar establishments is prohibited.

"Houston Rockets guard James Harden has been fined $50,000 for violating the league's Health and Safety Protocols, which among other things prohibit attending indoor social gatherings of 15 or more people or entering bars, lounges, clubs or similar establishments," NBA President of League Operations Byron Spruell said in a statement about two hours after the game was postponed.

"Harden violated these rules when he attended a private indoor party on Monday, December 21."

As per NBA, three Rockets players' test either returned &nbsp;positive or inconclusive for Covid-19 under the NBA's testing program.

NBA game on the second day of the new season has been postponed due to coronavirus and Rockets star James Harden was fined for violating protocols. Also read: Federer, Serena among entries for Australian Open On Wednesday, the game between Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center in Houston was postponed due to league's health and safety protocols.

NBA game on the second day of the new season has been postponed due to coronavirus and Rockets star James Harden was fined for violating protocols. Also read: Federer, Serena among entries for Australian Open On Wednesday, the game between Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center in Houston was postponed due to league's health and safety protocols. "The National Basketball Association game scheduled for tonight between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center has been postponed in accordance with the league's Health and Safety Protocols," the NBA said in a statement. James Harden was unavailable for the match against the Thunder due to a violation of the health and safety protocols. NBA on Wednesday announced that Harden has been fined $50,000, saying the Rockets guard violated rules when he attended a private indoor party on Monday. According to the rules of the league, attending indoor social gatherings of 15 or more people or entering bars, lounges, clubs or similar establishments is prohibited. "Houston Rockets guard James Harden has been fined $50,000 for violating the league's Health and Safety Protocols, which among other things prohibit attending indoor social gatherings of 15 or more people or entering bars, lounges, clubs or similar establishments," NBA President of League Operations Byron Spruell said in a statement about two hours after the game was postponed. "Harden violated these rules when he attended a private indoor party on Monday, December 21." As per NBA, three Rockets players' test either returned positive or inconclusive for Covid-19 under the NBA's testing program.

James Harden fined as Rockets game postponed as Covid bites NBA

The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that 107 international players from 41 countries are on opening-night rosters for the 2020-21 season, including a record 17 Canadian players and a record-tying 14 African players. This marks the seventh consecutive season that opening-night rosters feature at least 100 international players. All 30 teams have at least one international player.&nbsp;

In addition to the 107 international players on 2020-21 opening-night rosters, there are 10 international players from a record-tying eight countries on “two-way” contracts, allowing them to play in up to 50 NBA games this season.&nbsp;

For the seventh consecutive year, Canada (17 players) is the most-represented country outside of the U.S., followed by France (nine players), Australia (eight players), Serbia and Germany (six players each).&nbsp;

The Washington Wizards have an NBA-high seven international players. The Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets each have six, while the New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder and Toronto Raptors each have five.&nbsp;

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The 2020-21 NBA season begins tonight with a doubleheader on TNT as part of Kia NBA Tip-Off 2020. The first game features the Brooklyn Nets hosting the Golden State Warriors at 7 p.m. ET. In the second game, the defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers take on the LA Clippers at 10 p.m. ET.&nbsp;

A record 34 players on opening-night rosters participated in Basketball Without Borders (BWB) prior to starting their NBA careers, surpassing the previous record of 30 set in 2019-20. Former BWB campers include Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2011), Jamal Murray (Nuggets; Canada; BWB Global 2015) and Pascal Siakam (Raptors; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2012). BWB is the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball development and community outreach program that has seen 76 former campers drafted into the NBA or signed as free agents since 2001.&nbsp;

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In addition to the 107 international players on 2020-21 opening-night rosters, there are 10 international players from a record-tying eight countries on “two-way” contracts, allowing them to play in up to 50 NBA games this season. There are also a number of American players with ties to other countries, including more than 30 players with at least one parent from Africa. Among the American players with ties to other countries are Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz; ties to the Philippines), Victor Oladipo (Indiana Pacers; ties to Nigeria), Matisse Thybulle (76ers; ties to Australia and Haiti) and Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves; ties to the Dominican Republic).&nbsp;

The records for international players (113) and countries and territories represented (42) were set at the start of the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, respectively.&nbsp;

The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that 107 international players from 41 countries are on opening-night rosters for the 2020-21 season, including a record 17 Canadian players and a record-tying 14 African players.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that 107 international players from 41 countries are on opening-night rosters for the 2020-21 season, including a record 17 Canadian players and a record-tying 14 African players. This marks the seventh consecutive season that opening-night rosters feature at least 100 international players. All 30 teams have at least one international player. In addition to the 107 international players on 2020-21 opening-night rosters, there are 10 international players from a record-tying eight countries on “two-way” contracts, allowing them to play in up to 50 NBA games this season. For the seventh consecutive year, Canada (17 players) is the most-represented country outside of the U.S., followed by France (nine players), Australia (eight players), Serbia and Germany (six players each). The Washington Wizards have an NBA-high seven international players. The Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets each have six, while the New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder and Toronto Raptors each have five. ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 The 2020-21 NBA season begins tonight with a doubleheader on TNT as part of Kia NBA Tip-Off 2020. The first game features the Brooklyn Nets hosting the Golden State Warriors at 7 p.m. ET. In the second game, the defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers take on the LA Clippers at 10 p.m. ET. A record 34 players on opening-night rosters participated in Basketball Without Borders (BWB) prior to starting their NBA careers, surpassing the previous record of 30 set in 2019-20. Former BWB campers include Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2011), Jamal Murray (Nuggets; Canada; BWB Global 2015) and Pascal Siakam (Raptors; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2012). BWB is the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball development and community outreach program that has seen 76 former campers drafted into the NBA or signed as free agents since 2001. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement In addition to the 107 international players on 2020-21 opening-night rosters, there are 10 international players from a record-tying eight countries on “two-way” contracts, allowing them to play in up to 50 NBA games this season. There are also a number of American players with ties to other countries, including more than 30 players with at least one parent from Africa. Among the American players with ties to other countries are Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz; ties to the Philippines), Victor Oladipo (Indiana Pacers; ties to Nigeria), Matisse Thybulle (76ers; ties to Australia and Haiti) and Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves; ties to the Dominican Republic). The records for international players (113) and countries and territories represented (42) were set at the start of the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, respectively.

NBA rosters feature 107 international players from 41 countries

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago.&nbsp;

• STEPHEN CURRY, GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (5 GP LAST SEASON): The two-time Kia NBA MVP led Golden State to three NBA championships and five consecutive NBA Finals appearances before last season’s extended absence (he returned in March and played one game before the season was paused). Curry needs five three-pointers to reach 2,500 for his career and is 66 threes from passing Reggie Miller for the second-most in NBA history. He is also poised to become the Warriors’ franchise leader in both points and assists this season.&nbsp;

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• KEVIN DURANT, BROOKLYN NETS (0 GP): The 10-time NBA AllStar and 2013-14 Kia NBA MVP is set for his first action since the 2019 NBA Finals. In three seasons with Golden State, Durant won two Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP awards and reached the NBA Finals three times. A four-time scoring champion, Durant has the sixth-highest scoring average in NBA history (27.0 ppg).&nbsp;

• BLAKE GRIFFIN, DETROIT PISTONS (18 GP): In 2018-19 (his first full season with Detroit), Griffin averaged a career-high 24.5 points, was named an NBA All-Star for the sixth time and earned All-NBA Third Team honors. He also made a career-high 189 three-pointers.&nbsp;

• KYRIE IRVING, BROOKLYN NETS (20 GP): Irving made a splash with 50 points in his first game as a Net, the highest-scoring debut in NBA history. He averaged 27.4 points in 20 games, which would have been a career-high over a full season. Before last season, Irving had been named an NBA All-Star six times in a seven-year span.&nbsp;

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• KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS, MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (35 GP): Towns actually played more than half of Minnesota’s games last season, but he also had two extended absences, one of which sidelined him for the final 12 games. He averaged 26.5 points, 10.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists and shot 41.2 per cent from three-point range in 35 games. Towns was an NBA All-Star selection in 2017-18 and 2018-19.&nbsp;

• JOHN WALL, WASHINGTON WIZARDS (0 GP): Wall is poised to return two years after his last regular-season NBA game (Dec. 26, 2018). He made five consecutive NBA All-Star teams from 2014-18, a stretch during which he averaged at least 10.0 assists three times. This will be Wall’s 10th playing season with the Wizards, who selected him with the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago.

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago. • STEPHEN CURRY, GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (5 GP LAST SEASON): The two-time Kia NBA MVP led Golden State to three NBA championships and five consecutive NBA Finals appearances before last season’s extended absence (he returned in March and played one game before the season was paused). Curry needs five three-pointers to reach 2,500 for his career and is 66 threes from passing Reggie Miller for the second-most in NBA history. He is also poised to become the Warriors’ franchise leader in both points and assists this season. ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 • KEVIN DURANT, BROOKLYN NETS (0 GP): The 10-time NBA AllStar and 2013-14 Kia NBA MVP is set for his first action since the 2019 NBA Finals. In three seasons with Golden State, Durant won two Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP awards and reached the NBA Finals three times. A four-time scoring champion, Durant has the sixth-highest scoring average in NBA history (27.0 ppg). • BLAKE GRIFFIN, DETROIT PISTONS (18 GP): In 2018-19 (his first full season with Detroit), Griffin averaged a career-high 24.5 points, was named an NBA All-Star for the sixth time and earned All-NBA Third Team honors. He also made a career-high 189 three-pointers. • KYRIE IRVING, BROOKLYN NETS (20 GP): Irving made a splash with 50 points in his first game as a Net, the highest-scoring debut in NBA history. He averaged 27.4 points in 20 games, which would have been a career-high over a full season. Before last season, Irving had been named an NBA All-Star six times in a seven-year span. ALSO READ: From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history • KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS, MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (35 GP): Towns actually played more than half of Minnesota’s games last season, but he also had two extended absences, one of which sidelined him for the final 12 games. He averaged 26.5 points, 10.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists and shot 41.2 per cent from three-point range in 35 games. Towns was an NBA All-Star selection in 2017-18 and 2018-19. • JOHN WALL, WASHINGTON WIZARDS (0 GP): Wall is poised to return two years after his last regular-season NBA game (Dec. 26, 2018). He made five consecutive NBA All-Star teams from 2014-18, a stretch during which he averaged at least 10.0 assists three times. This will be Wall’s 10th playing season with the Wizards, who selected him with the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

Top players back in action in NBA as fresh season awaits

From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history

NBA star LeBron James has been named TIME magazine's Athlete of the Year. The basketball player has had a great year on and off the pitch.&nbsp;

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LeBron led his team (LA Lakers) to a record-equalling 17th championship title in October during a season amid pandemic. this was LeBron James' fourth NBA Title and fourth Finals MVP Award. He also became the first player in the history of the NBA, to win these awards and title with three different teams. He is currently second to Michael Jordan, who has six titles.&nbsp;

Recently, LeBron extended his stay at the Lakers after signing a two-year deal. Many reports suggest the deal is worth $85 million.&nbsp;

Off the pitch, LeBron has been leading voices in talking against racism and police brutality. Ahead of the US Presidential elections, he set up an organization by the name of "More than A Vote" to increase voter registration and combat systemic, racist voter suppression. This organisation consisted of top Black athletes and artists. They used their social media channels to encourage and educate their followers on how to cast a ballot for this year's election.

"Not only is he the best player," tennis champion Naomi Osaka, who wore masks honouring victims of racial violence during her run to the US Open title in September, told TIME, "but he has the most powerful voice."

Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, another athlete to speak out against social injustice, also told TIME: "When I saw across the pond that another top athlete was also fighting for similar causes, I knew, OK, I'm not alone here."

NBA star LeBron James has been named TIME magazine's Athlete of the Year. The basketball player has had a great year on and off the pitch. Also read: Verstappen edges Bottas in Abu Dhabi practice as Hamilton makes quiet return LeBron led his team (LA Lakers) to a record-equalling 17th championship title in October during a season amid pandemic.

NBA star LeBron James has been named TIME magazine's Athlete of the Year. The basketball player has had a great year on and off the pitch. Also read: Verstappen edges Bottas in Abu Dhabi practice as Hamilton makes quiet return LeBron led his team (LA Lakers) to a record-equalling 17th championship title in October during a season amid pandemic. this was LeBron James' fourth NBA Title and fourth Finals MVP Award. He also became the first player in the history of the NBA, to win these awards and title with three different teams. He is currently second to Michael Jordan, who has six titles. Recently, LeBron extended his stay at the Lakers after signing a two-year deal. Many reports suggest the deal is worth $85 million. Off the pitch, LeBron has been leading voices in talking against racism and police brutality. Ahead of the US Presidential elections, he set up an organization by the name of "More than A Vote" to increase voter registration and combat systemic, racist voter suppression. This organisation consisted of top Black athletes and artists. They used their social media channels to encourage and educate their followers on how to cast a ballot for this year's election. "Not only is he the best player," tennis champion Naomi Osaka, who wore masks honouring victims of racial violence during her run to the US Open title in September, told TIME, "but he has the most powerful voice." Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, another athlete to speak out against social injustice, also told TIME: "When I saw across the pond that another top athlete was also fighting for similar causes, I knew, OK, I'm not alone here."

NBA star LeBron James named as TIME magazine's Athlete of the Year

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors. Fast forward 18 months and the 32-year old is back from the Achilles’ tendon injury and will face the Warriors on the opening night of the 2020-21 season wearing the Brooklyn Nets’ jersey.

The two-time NBA champion said he has tried to be the best version of himself while returning to much-awaited on-court action. “Every drill that I’ve done, I’ve been going as hard as I could,” said Durant. “I’ve been in the league for 14 years. Even if I didn’t have an Achilles’, I probably wouldn’t be 100 percent. So the wear and tear over time, I guess, but I feel solid.”

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Achilles tendon injuries can be exhausting to come back from, but Durant didn’t let the long road back to recovery get to him. “It actually wasn’t that frustrating, to be honest. I enjoyed having a lot of ‘me time’ away from you all and the NBA life in general,” said Durant while speaking to reporters.

Before the injury stopped him in tracks, Durant was one of the most feared basketball players in the world winning two titles with the Warriors and the Finals MVP in both the championship runs. A few years before getting his championship rings, Durant had already established his credentials winning the League MVP in 2014 playing for Oklahoma City Thunder.

When asked if he was back to his MVP form, he shrugged off the question saying he was feeling good playing the sport and not thinking about the awards at the moment. But Durant admitted he would find it difficult to be judicious coming at the back of a long injury layoff. “I enjoy playing an if and when Coach tries to pull me out early unexpectedly, of course, I’m going to push back, but I know they have my best interest,” the Nets superstar said.

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Durant will form one of NBA’s blockbuster pairing with his friend Kyrie Irving that will look to dominate the Eastern Conference. “We both respect each other’s’ game, we know each other’s game inside out. We know what championship level basketball looks like,” he said.

But what if the duo became a trio with James Harden’s speculated move to Brooklyn. Durant wasn’t bothered. “Whatever happens, we have to be prepared for everything,” said Durant. When further probed on his role in getting the Houston Rockets cornerstone to his team, Durant said these are all made up stories. “I heard all the noise and James potentially wanted to come to the Nets. Nothing is set in stone till it is set in stone,” Durant concluded.

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors.

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors. Fast forward 18 months and the 32-year old is back from the Achilles’ tendon injury and will face the Warriors on the opening night of the 2020-21 season wearing the Brooklyn Nets’ jersey. The two-time NBA champion said he has tried to be the best version of himself while returning to much-awaited on-court action. “Every drill that I’ve done, I’ve been going as hard as I could,” said Durant. “I’ve been in the league for 14 years. Even if I didn’t have an Achilles’, I probably wouldn’t be 100 percent. So the wear and tear over time, I guess, but I feel solid.” ALSO READ: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism Achilles tendon injuries can be exhausting to come back from, but Durant didn’t let the long road back to recovery get to him. “It actually wasn’t that frustrating, to be honest. I enjoyed having a lot of ‘me time’ away from you all and the NBA life in general,” said Durant while speaking to reporters. Before the injury stopped him in tracks, Durant was one of the most feared basketball players in the world winning two titles with the Warriors and the Finals MVP in both the championship runs. A few years before getting his championship rings, Durant had already established his credentials winning the League MVP in 2014 playing for Oklahoma City Thunder. When asked if he was back to his MVP form, he shrugged off the question saying he was feeling good playing the sport and not thinking about the awards at the moment. But Durant admitted he would find it difficult to be judicious coming at the back of a long injury layoff. “I enjoy playing an if and when Coach tries to pull me out early unexpectedly, of course, I’m going to push back, but I know they have my best interest,” the Nets superstar said. ALSO READ: Ronaldo scores twice as Juve crush Messi's troubled Barcelona Durant will form one of NBA’s blockbuster pairing with his friend Kyrie Irving that will look to dominate the Eastern Conference. “We both respect each other’s’ game, we know each other’s game inside out. We know what championship level basketball looks like,” he said. But what if the duo became a trio with James Harden’s speculated move to Brooklyn. Durant wasn’t bothered. “Whatever happens, we have to be prepared for everything,” said Durant. When further probed on his role in getting the Houston Rockets cornerstone to his team, Durant said these are all made up stories. “I heard all the noise and James potentially wanted to come to the Nets. Nothing is set in stone till it is set in stone,” Durant concluded.

Life comes a full circle for Kevin Durant

"I've been through a lot, obviously starting out with my mom,” said Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns as he enters his sixth NBA season with a heavy heart. Towns’ mother, Jacqueline Towns, passed away in April due to COVID-19 related complications. On Friday, the 25-year-old revealed that six other family members have died due to COVID-19.

"Last night I got a call that I lost my uncle," Towns said. "I feel like I've been hardened a little bit by life and humbled."

Towns said his main priority is to keep his family safe. His father, Karl-Anthony Towns Sr., also tested positive for the coronavirus but recovered.

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"I've seen a lot of coffins in the last seven months, eight months," Towns said. "But I have a lot of people who have -- in my family and my mom's family -- who have gotten Covid. I'm the one looking for answers still, trying to find how to keep them healthy. It's just a lot of responsibility on me to keep my family well informed and to make all the moves necessary to keep them alive."

However, Towns said basketball won’t be anything like a therapy for him as he plays to put a smile on the faces of his family members while adding it’s going to be a hard season for him to play after seven deaths in his family due to the virus.

"I play this game more because I just loved watching my family members seeing me play a game I was very successful and good at. It always brought me a smile when I saw my mom at the baseline and in the stands and stuff and having a good time watching me play," Towns said. "So it's going to be hard to play. It's going to be difficult to say this is therapy. I don't think this will ever be therapy for me again. But it gives me a chance to relive good memories I had."

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On March 15, Towns announced that he would donate $100,000 to the Mayo Clinic with hope that this fight with virus can be won quickly by increasing testing capabilities. He wrote on Instagram: "My hope is that we can fight this virus quicker and more efficiently by increasing the testing capabilities and availability and Mayo Clinic's overall Covid-19 response."

Minnesota Timberwolves will open the 2020-21 NBA season against the Detroit Pistons on December 23 at Target Center in Minneapolis. 
&nbsp;

"I've been through a lot, obviously starting out with my mom,” said Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns as he enters his sixth NBA season with a heavy heart.

"I've been through a lot, obviously starting out with my mom,” said Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns as he enters his sixth NBA season with a heavy heart. Towns’ mother, Jacqueline Towns, passed away in April due to COVID-19 related complications. On Friday, the 25-year-old revealed that six other family members have died due to COVID-19. "Last night I got a call that I lost my uncle," Towns said. "I feel like I've been hardened a little bit by life and humbled." Towns said his main priority is to keep his family safe. His father, Karl-Anthony Towns Sr., also tested positive for the coronavirus but recovered. ALSO READ: NBA: Washington Wizards' Russell Westbrook clears the air, talks legacy "I've seen a lot of coffins in the last seven months, eight months," Towns said. "But I have a lot of people who have -- in my family and my mom's family -- who have gotten Covid. I'm the one looking for answers still, trying to find how to keep them healthy. It's just a lot of responsibility on me to keep my family well informed and to make all the moves necessary to keep them alive." However, Towns said basketball won’t be anything like a therapy for him as he plays to put a smile on the faces of his family members while adding it’s going to be a hard season for him to play after seven deaths in his family due to the virus. "I play this game more because I just loved watching my family members seeing me play a game I was very successful and good at. It always brought me a smile when I saw my mom at the baseline and in the stands and stuff and having a good time watching me play," Towns said. "So it's going to be hard to play. It's going to be difficult to say this is therapy. I don't think this will ever be therapy for me again. But it gives me a chance to relive good memories I had." ALSO READ: Floyd Mayweather to take on YouTuber Logan Paul in exhibition bout On March 15, Towns announced that he would donate $100,000 to the Mayo Clinic with hope that this fight with virus can be won quickly by increasing testing capabilities. He wrote on Instagram: "My hope is that we can fight this virus quicker and more efficiently by increasing the testing capabilities and availability and Mayo Clinic's overall Covid-19 response." Minnesota Timberwolves will open the 2020-21 NBA season against the Detroit Pistons on December 23 at Target Center in Minneapolis.

'I've seen a lot of coffins': NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns says he lost 7 family members to COVID-19

“Where do you want me to start?” Washington Wizards’ new superstar acquisition Russell Westbrook said on Saturday speaking to the media for the first time since being traded from Houston Rockets. Westbrook clarified he is misunderstood. “Because a lot of times, the things that are made up, people don’t actually know me to be able to say anything about me or what I am about or what I believe in. ... Obviously, I am not the easiest guy to understand, whatever, watch play, whatever people may think.”

A nine-time All Star, Westbrook had a rather unusual feather in his hat, becoming first NBA MVP to be traded in consecutive offseasons.

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Westbrook explained that the player on court and the persona off court are two different people. “When I am on the floor, I don’t have any friends, I am not trying to be friendly, I’m trying to bust somebody’s ass. I ain’t got time to try to shake hands and do all that. I don’t have time for it, and I am never changing that,” the explosive point guard said it loud and clear.

At the back of three consecutive triple-double seasons at the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook was traded to join forces with James Harden for the 2019-20 season. And in the current offseason found himself a new team in the Wizards. Much like any other seasoned pro, the 32-year old admitted that these moves affect his family more than him. “Not as much for me but for my wife and my family now. She has to move my kids, find schools, place to stay so that’s the most difficult part because I know the stress it puts on my family,” said Westbrook.

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Wizards, who went 25-47 last season, expect Westbrook to run with their franchise cornerstone Bradley Beal and push the team in playoffs contention, but Westbrook’s idea of legacy is different.

“Legacy for me is based on how many people I impact and inspire along my journey,” Westbrook said. “It’s important that somebody that has the power, the impact, the ability, the impact, the outreach to be able to put their foot down and make a stand,” Westbrook added.

“Where do you want me to start?” Washington Wizards’ new superstar acquisition Russell Westbrook said on Saturday speaking to the media for the first time since being traded from Houston Rockets.

“Where do you want me to start?” Washington Wizards’ new superstar acquisition Russell Westbrook said on Saturday speaking to the media for the first time since being traded from Houston Rockets. Westbrook clarified he is misunderstood. “Because a lot of times, the things that are made up, people don’t actually know me to be able to say anything about me or what I am about or what I believe in. ... Obviously, I am not the easiest guy to understand, whatever, watch play, whatever people may think.” A nine-time All Star, Westbrook had a rather unusual feather in his hat, becoming first NBA MVP to be traded in consecutive offseasons. ALSO READ: Liverpool spark Anfield party to join Spurs at top of Premier League Westbrook explained that the player on court and the persona off court are two different people. “When I am on the floor, I don’t have any friends, I am not trying to be friendly, I’m trying to bust somebody’s ass. I ain’t got time to try to shake hands and do all that. I don’t have time for it, and I am never changing that,” the explosive point guard said it loud and clear. At the back of three consecutive triple-double seasons at the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook was traded to join forces with James Harden for the 2019-20 season. And in the current offseason found himself a new team in the Wizards. Much like any other seasoned pro, the 32-year old admitted that these moves affect his family more than him. “Not as much for me but for my wife and my family now. She has to move my kids, find schools, place to stay so that’s the most difficult part because I know the stress it puts on my family,” said Westbrook. ALSO READ: LeBron, Osaka, Mahomes among SI Sportspersons of the Year Wizards, who went 25-47 last season, expect Westbrook to run with their franchise cornerstone Bradley Beal and push the team in playoffs contention, but Westbrook’s idea of legacy is different. “Legacy for me is based on how many people I impact and inspire along my journey,” Westbrook said. “It’s important that somebody that has the power, the impact, the ability, the impact, the outreach to be able to put their foot down and make a stand,” Westbrook added.

NBA: Washington Wizards' Russell Westbrook clears the air, talks legacy

Steph Curry,&nbsp;who spent nine months off the court while launching his own brand, is back on the court as he said he is raring to go after not playing any basketball for such a long time. “I never had a time of not playing games for such a long time,” Curry said speaking to media after Golden State Warriors started their training camp with individual workouts on Wednesday.

A league&nbsp;worst 15-50 record and the COVID-19 pandemic led to a longer than expected break for the Warriors, but Curry was going from strength-to-strength. As restrictions eased, he started playing in scrimmages eventually leading up to 5-on-5 workouts with teammates until last month. “It was good to kind of shake the cobwebs off and not wait until December to get competitive live-action before playing regular-season games,” said Curry.

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In an off-season like never seen before, Curry was not only strengthening his left hand, but he kept himself relevant interviewing America’s lead expert on infectious diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci, made a virtual appearance at the Democratic National Convention and teed off with Phil Mickelson. And he saw the ‘Bubble’ too. “Watching the bubble was weird. It was nice to be a fan for a little bit, but I definitely want to be playing competitive basketball and in games that matter,” he remarked.

Unlike a few years back, Warriors don’t carry the favorites tag, but Curry has a lot of weight to carry as Klay Thompson was ruled out for a second consecutive season. “It is going to be a tough year without him,” Curry admitted. Warriors will look to their No.2 Draft pick James Wiseman to play a bigger role and Curry knows the 19-year-old will contribute to make them a much better basketball team. “He has a game that doesn’t look like a 19-year-old. He doesn’t lack confidence and he knows he belongs here,” said Curry of Wiseman.

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Come Dec. 22 (Dec. 23 IST), Curry and the Warriors tip-off the 2020-21 NBA season against the Brooklyn Nets on the road and he knows the anticipation and expectations that will come with the game as Kevin Durant will play against his former teammates for the first time since moving to Brooklyn. Straight from Brooklyn they go to Milwaukee for Christmas Day game. “I have to figure out what we’re going to do in Milwaukee for Christmas,” Curry said with a grin, “But other than that it’s going to be pretty awesome just to be playing basketball again. I’m excited. It’s going to be here before you know it.”

Steph Curry, who spent nine months off the court while launching his own brand, is back on the court as he said he is raring to go after not playing any basketball for such a long time.

Steph Curry, who spent nine months off the court while launching his own brand, is back on the court as he said he is raring to go after not playing any basketball for such a long time. “I never had a time of not playing games for such a long time,” Curry said speaking to media after Golden State Warriors started their training camp with individual workouts on Wednesday. A league worst 15-50 record and the COVID-19 pandemic led to a longer than expected break for the Warriors, but Curry was going from strength-to-strength. As restrictions eased, he started playing in scrimmages eventually leading up to 5-on-5 workouts with teammates until last month. “It was good to kind of shake the cobwebs off and not wait until December to get competitive live-action before playing regular-season games,” said Curry. ALSO READ: NBA Draft 2020: Top picks, trivia and best quotes In an off-season like never seen before, Curry was not only strengthening his left hand, but he kept himself relevant interviewing America’s lead expert on infectious diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci, made a virtual appearance at the Democratic National Convention and teed off with Phil Mickelson. And he saw the ‘Bubble’ too. “Watching the bubble was weird. It was nice to be a fan for a little bit, but I definitely want to be playing competitive basketball and in games that matter,” he remarked. Unlike a few years back, Warriors don’t carry the favorites tag, but Curry has a lot of weight to carry as Klay Thompson was ruled out for a second consecutive season. “It is going to be a tough year without him,” Curry admitted. Warriors will look to their No.2 Draft pick James Wiseman to play a bigger role and Curry knows the 19-year-old will contribute to make them a much better basketball team. “He has a game that doesn’t look like a 19-year-old. He doesn’t lack confidence and he knows he belongs here,” said Curry of Wiseman. ALSO READ: NBA: Paul and Walker chart different routes for the upcoming season Come Dec. 22 (Dec. 23 IST), Curry and the Warriors tip-off the 2020-21 NBA season against the Brooklyn Nets on the road and he knows the anticipation and expectations that will come with the game as Kevin Durant will play against his former teammates for the first time since moving to Brooklyn. Straight from Brooklyn they go to Milwaukee for Christmas Day game. “I have to figure out what we’re going to do in Milwaukee for Christmas,” Curry said with a grin, “But other than that it’s going to be pretty awesome just to be playing basketball again. I’m excited. It’s going to be here before you know it.”

NBA: 'I’m excited' - Stephen Curry back and raring to go in new season

The NBA announced Wednesday that 48 players have tested positive for the coronavirus, a dramatic increase over the zero positive tests reported during last season's quarantine bubble in Florida.

The league said the positive tests are the result of 546 tests carried out between November 24-30 as the NBA gets set to begin preseason games in nine days.&nbsp;

The zero positive tests were from the beginning of last season's quarantine bubble to the end of the season in mid-October.

One team, the&nbsp;Golden State Warriors, has already delayed the beginning of their individual workouts by a day this week because of players testing positive.

This was the initial round of tests for players as they returned to their teams ahead of the start of individual workouts on Tuesday. The NBA says it will be testing all of its players daily throughout the season.

The infection rate number is also higher than the 46 players that tested positive for Covid-19 in the weeks ahead of the start of the pandemic-disrupted season. The new results show the league has a positivity rate of 8.8 percent, which is high.

Under the league's tough new Covid-19 protocols, a players who tests positive has to refrain from workouts for at least 10 days and more if he is showing symptoms.

The NBA's first preseason games are December 11 with the regular season scheduled to begin less than two weeks later.

The NBA announced Wednesday that 48 players have tested positive for the coronavirus, a dramatic increase over the zero positive tests reported during last season's quarantine bubble in Florida.

The NBA announced Wednesday that 48 players have tested positive for the coronavirus, a dramatic increase over the zero positive tests reported during last season's quarantine bubble in Florida. The league said the positive tests are the result of 546 tests carried out between November 24-30 as the NBA gets set to begin preseason games in nine days. The zero positive tests were from the beginning of last season's quarantine bubble to the end of the season in mid-October. One team, the Golden State Warriors, has already delayed the beginning of their individual workouts by a day this week because of players testing positive. This was the initial round of tests for players as they returned to their teams ahead of the start of individual workouts on Tuesday. The NBA says it will be testing all of its players daily throughout the season. The infection rate number is also higher than the 46 players that tested positive for Covid-19 in the weeks ahead of the start of the pandemic-disrupted season. The new results show the league has a positivity rate of 8.8 percent, which is high. Under the league's tough new Covid-19 protocols, a players who tests positive has to refrain from workouts for at least 10 days and more if he is showing symptoms. The NBA's first preseason games are December 11 with the regular season scheduled to begin less than two weeks later.

NBA says 48 players test positive for Covid-19

Excitement and agony are the two feelings that described Chris Paul and Kemba Walker’s start of the 2020-21 preseason. While Paul marked his first day in the Phoenix Suns gym Wednesday, Walker is unlikely to start the season until January 2021 due to a troublesome knee.

On Wednesday, Paul was speaking to media for the first time since he was traded to the Suns. “Everyone always talks about like what I can teach Book or what I can teach some of these other guys, but they’re teaching me at the same time, too,” Paul said. “I’m not James Naismith by no means. “I’m their teammate, too. We here to hoop, we here to compete, and that’s the way I approach this.

Since the pandemic induced hiatus and return last season, Paul’s hands have been full as the president of the executive committee of the NBA Players’ Association, but he knows he a new job at hand at Phoenix.

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“The one thing about my approach, and I’m not saying that it’s always right and it’s not for everybody, but I’ll never ask you to do something that I wouldn’t do myself,” said Paul. Much of what he said was how the story of his season at Oklahoma City was defined. “The biggest thing I learned last year is you can write your own story,” he said. “We didn’t care about none of y’all’s predictions. Sometimes it’s nice to have a young team because they don’t know nothing else but to hoop and to play hard.”

In stark contrast of Paul’s energy, Walker is taking it slow, rightly so. “There’s no rush on my end,” Walker said. “I’m coming back when I need to come back and when I’m feeling good to play.” Boston Celtics need Walker to return at his best especially with Gordon Hayward signing a four-year, $120 million contract with the Charlotte Hornets, Walker’s previous employers.

&nbsp;

When asked if he was upset with Hornets offering big-money to Hayward, Walker said he couldn’t care less. “I made my choice to come here to Boston because this is where I wanted to be because it makes me happy. And, he’s happy. I’m sure he’s happy. He’s going to have a great time in Charlotte,” concluded Walker.

Excitement and agony are the two feelings that described Chris Paul and Kemba Walker’s start of the 2020-21 preseason. While Paul marked his first day in the Phoenix Suns gym Wednesday, Walker is unlikely to start the season until January 2021 due to a troublesome knee.

Excitement and agony are the two feelings that described Chris Paul and Kemba Walker’s start of the 2020-21 preseason. While Paul marked his first day in the Phoenix Suns gym Wednesday, Walker is unlikely to start the season until January 2021 due to a troublesome knee. On Wednesday, Paul was speaking to media for the first time since he was traded to the Suns. “Everyone always talks about like what I can teach Book or what I can teach some of these other guys, but they’re teaching me at the same time, too,” Paul said. “I’m not James Naismith by no means. “I’m their teammate, too. We here to hoop, we here to compete, and that’s the way I approach this. Since the pandemic induced hiatus and return last season, Paul’s hands have been full as the president of the executive committee of the NBA Players’ Association, but he knows he a new job at hand at Phoenix. ALSO READ: Coaches list their priorities as build-up to the 2020-21 NBA season begins “The one thing about my approach, and I’m not saying that it’s always right and it’s not for everybody, but I’ll never ask you to do something that I wouldn’t do myself,” said Paul. Much of what he said was how the story of his season at Oklahoma City was defined. “The biggest thing I learned last year is you can write your own story,” he said. “We didn’t care about none of y’all’s predictions. Sometimes it’s nice to have a young team because they don’t know nothing else but to hoop and to play hard.” In stark contrast of Paul’s energy, Walker is taking it slow, rightly so. “There’s no rush on my end,” Walker said. “I’m coming back when I need to come back and when I’m feeling good to play.” Boston Celtics need Walker to return at his best especially with Gordon Hayward signing a four-year, $120 million contract with the Charlotte Hornets, Walker’s previous employers. When asked if he was upset with Hornets offering big-money to Hayward, Walker said he couldn’t care less. “I made my choice to come here to Boston because this is where I wanted to be because it makes me happy. And, he’s happy. I’m sure he’s happy. He’s going to have a great time in Charlotte,” concluded Walker.

NBA: Paul and Walker chart different routes for the upcoming season

The build-up to the NBA’s 2020-21 season tipped-off with a media week. From a first-time Bubble to a first-time 72-game season, the teams are gearing up to the new normal.

But Doc Rivers, Philadelphia 76ers’ new head coach was as honest as he could be about the upcoming season. “I’m very concerned if we can pull this off.&nbsp;If we miss three or four players, we’re in trouble, especially with the amount of games, we’re playing 3-4 games a week,” said Rivers. “So if one of our guys or two of our key guys get the virus and they miss 10 days to 14 days, that can be eight games. In a 72-game season that can knock you out of the playoffs.”

Rivers said going into this season one of the chief concerns for almost every coach is probably non-basketball. But Steve Kerr is busy finding ways to fill a hole of the size of Klay Thompson.

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“There’s a hole in our hearts, just because he’s such a huge part of who we are,” Kerr said. “And [Thompson, Curry and Green] really are the core of this whole thing – what’s been built here over the last seven or eight years. That part is gonna be really tough for Steph and Draymond to get past. It’ll be hard for all of us to get past, but we have no choice but to do so.”

For Dallas Mavericks’ Rick Carlisle raising defensive levels is the top priority. “When you’re a galactically successful offensive team but a below-average defensive team, that’s not a recipe that’s going to win you an NBA title,” pointed Carlisle “You can never have enough toughness on a team, particularly with the way the Western Conference is shaping up. Big emphasis this season will be getting better defensively, not just with the new additions but also from a mentality perspective.”

Even first-time head coach Steve Nash echoes Carlisle’s point. “We realize that we’re trying to compete for a championship, and we have to be excellent defensively,” Nash said. “It’s going to be a process. It’s something we’re going to build all year.” A team laced with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, Nash feels his centers DeAndre Jordan and Jarrett Allen will have a key role to play for the Brooklyn Nets. “We have some centers that are vertical threats, so we can really put pressure on people above the rim but also stress them and make the court big and difficult to cover.”

Denver Nuggets, the team that lost to eventual champions LA Lakers in the Western Conference Finals, are accepting the reality and preparing for what’s coming up next.

Nuggets preseason schedule includes three games, first against Golden State Warriors on Dec. 12 followed by two against Portland Trailblazers on Dec. 16 &amp; 18. “Last year was a great season, one of the greatest in franchise history. That’s over. Can we build on that, that is the challenge now. I think it’s on that we are ready and excited to face,” head coach Mike Malone said as training camps began across the league.

&nbsp;

The preseason starts from December 11 (Dec. 12 in India) where all teams will play a minimum of two games and a maximum of four, with at least one home game and one away game on the schedule. The regular season is set to start on December 22 (Dec. 23 in India).

The build-up to the NBA’s 2020-21 season tipped-off with a media week. From a first-time Bubble to a first-time 72-game season, the teams are gearing up to the new normal.

The build-up to the NBA’s 2020-21 season tipped-off with a media week. From a first-time Bubble to a first-time 72-game season, the teams are gearing up to the new normal. But Doc Rivers, Philadelphia 76ers’ new head coach was as honest as he could be about the upcoming season. “I’m very concerned if we can pull this off. If we miss three or four players, we’re in trouble, especially with the amount of games, we’re playing 3-4 games a week,” said Rivers. “So if one of our guys or two of our key guys get the virus and they miss 10 days to 14 days, that can be eight games. In a 72-game season that can knock you out of the playoffs.” Rivers said going into this season one of the chief concerns for almost every coach is probably non-basketball. But Steve Kerr is busy finding ways to fill a hole of the size of Klay Thompson. ALSO READ: NBA Draft 2020: Top picks, trivia and best quotes “There’s a hole in our hearts, just because he’s such a huge part of who we are,” Kerr said. “And [Thompson, Curry and Green] really are the core of this whole thing – what’s been built here over the last seven or eight years. That part is gonna be really tough for Steph and Draymond to get past. It’ll be hard for all of us to get past, but we have no choice but to do so.” For Dallas Mavericks’ Rick Carlisle raising defensive levels is the top priority. “When you’re a galactically successful offensive team but a below-average defensive team, that’s not a recipe that’s going to win you an NBA title,” pointed Carlisle “You can never have enough toughness on a team, particularly with the way the Western Conference is shaping up. Big emphasis this season will be getting better defensively, not just with the new additions but also from a mentality perspective.” Even first-time head coach Steve Nash echoes Carlisle’s point. “We realize that we’re trying to compete for a championship, and we have to be excellent defensively,” Nash said. “It’s going to be a process. It’s something we’re going to build all year.” A team laced with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, Nash feels his centers DeAndre Jordan and Jarrett Allen will have a key role to play for the Brooklyn Nets. “We have some centers that are vertical threats, so we can really put pressure on people above the rim but also stress them and make the court big and difficult to cover.” Denver Nuggets, the team that lost to eventual champions LA Lakers in the Western Conference Finals, are accepting the reality and preparing for what’s coming up next. Nuggets preseason schedule includes three games, first against Golden State Warriors on Dec. 12 followed by two against Portland Trailblazers on Dec. 16 & 18. “Last year was a great season, one of the greatest in franchise history. That’s over. Can we build on that, that is the challenge now. I think it’s on that we are ready and excited to face,” head coach Mike Malone said as training camps began across the league. The preseason starts from December 11 (Dec. 12 in India) where all teams will play a minimum of two games and a maximum of four, with at least one home game and one away game on the schedule. The regular season is set to start on December 22 (Dec. 23 in India).

Coaches list their priorities as build-up to the 2020-21 NBA season begins

Pope Francis&nbsp;hosted a delegation of NBA players and union officials at the Vatican in a bid to discuss the wide-ranging issues of racial equality and social justice. The delegation of five players and five union executives met with Pope Francis&nbsp;in the papal library of the Apostolic Palace on Monday, presenting gifts and discussed their share of experiences in tacking racism and social injustice. Interestingly, no one wore a mask to protect against the spread of COVID-19.

Photos and videos from the meeting showed at least 16 people sitting and exchanging gifts and opinions with no masks and almost no social-distancing measures.

The National Basketball Players Association (NLBPA) confirmed that the members of the delegation underwent COVID-19 tests before meeting Pope Francis, in accordance with the Vatican protocols.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-draft-2020-top-picks-trivia-and-best-quotes-344039" hreflang="en">NBA Draft 2020: Top picks, trivia and best quotes</a>

Pope Francis, 83, over the months, has received criticism for rarely wearing a mask while meeting people indoors.

Notably, the US has reported around 12 million coronavirus cases with death toll north to 250,000 from the virus – the most in the world.

The NBA player delegation included the likes of Sterling Brown and Kyle Korver of Milwaukee Bucks, Anthony Tolliver of the Memphis Grizzlies, Jonathan Isaac of the Orlando Magic and Marco Belinelli of the San Antonio Spurs. Belinelli spoke to the Pope in Italian.&nbsp;

<h2>"Meeting validates the power of our players' voices"</h2>

“Today's meeting validates the power of our players' voices,” NLBPA executive director Michele Roberts said. “That one of the most influential leaders in the world sought to have a conversation with them demonstrates the influence of their platforms.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-announces-structure-and-format-for-2020-21-season-343846" hreflang="en">NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season</a>

The NBA became central to political storm this year in the aftermath of the massive Black Lives Matter (BLM) protest across the US after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, under police custody. Players boycotted matches after another African-American man Jacob Blake was shot dead by police in Wisconsin.

Korver stated that players were honoured to share their experiences with Pope Francis. “His openness and eagerness to discuss these issues was inspiring and a reminder that our work has had a global impact and must continue moving forward,” Korver said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-2020-draft-history-stats-and-all-the-numbers-you-need-to-know-343844" hreflang="en">NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know</a>

Pope Francis’s book is due out on December 1 in which he has supported demands for racial justice among many other social causes. 
&nbsp;

Pope Francis hosted a delegation of NBA players and union officials at the Vatican in a bid to discuss the wide-ranging issues of racial equality and social justice.

Pope Francis hosted a delegation of NBA players and union officials at the Vatican in a bid to discuss the wide-ranging issues of racial equality and social justice. The delegation of five players and five union executives met with Pope Francis in the papal library of the Apostolic Palace on Monday, presenting gifts and discussed their share of experiences in tacking racism and social injustice. Interestingly, no one wore a mask to protect against the spread of COVID-19. Photos and videos from the meeting showed at least 16 people sitting and exchanging gifts and opinions with no masks and almost no social-distancing measures. The National Basketball Players Association (NLBPA) confirmed that the members of the delegation underwent COVID-19 tests before meeting Pope Francis, in accordance with the Vatican protocols. ALSO READ: NBA Draft 2020: Top picks, trivia and best quotes Pope Francis, 83, over the months, has received criticism for rarely wearing a mask while meeting people indoors. Notably, the US has reported around 12 million coronavirus cases with death toll north to 250,000 from the virus – the most in the world. The NBA player delegation included the likes of Sterling Brown and Kyle Korver of Milwaukee Bucks, Anthony Tolliver of the Memphis Grizzlies, Jonathan Isaac of the Orlando Magic and Marco Belinelli of the San Antonio Spurs. Belinelli spoke to the Pope in Italian. "Meeting validates the power of our players' voices" “Today's meeting validates the power of our players' voices,” NLBPA executive director Michele Roberts said. “That one of the most influential leaders in the world sought to have a conversation with them demonstrates the influence of their platforms.” ALSO READ: NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season The NBA became central to political storm this year in the aftermath of the massive Black Lives Matter (BLM) protest across the US after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, under police custody. Players boycotted matches after another African-American man Jacob Blake was shot dead by police in Wisconsin. Korver stated that players were honoured to share their experiences with Pope Francis. “His openness and eagerness to discuss these issues was inspiring and a reminder that our work has had a global impact and must continue moving forward,” Korver said. ALSO READ: NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know Pope Francis’s book is due out on December 1 in which he has supported demands for racial justice among many other social causes.

Pope Francis hosts delegation of NBA players for maskless meeting over social justice

The quick turnaround from the Los Angeles Lakers' NBA triumph in October mean the team will face a "balancing act" in keeping veteran superstar LeBron James at his best, Lakers vice president Rob Pelinka said Thursday.

“That'll just be a balancing act throughout the season, recognizing that there was an extremely short layoff between championship and the start of the season and kind of figuring out what's best for LeBron, what's best for his health, the team's health, what's best for the league and kind of walking that carefully and thoughtfully throughout the year,” Pelinka said in a videoconference with reporters.

James and the Lakers polished off the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals in the league's quarantine bubble in Orlando on October 11.

With the 72-game 2020-21 season scheduled to tip off on December 22, it's less than a month to the start of training camps on December 1.

James, who will turn 36 on December 30, has never been a fan of "load management," the technique used by teams to give uninjured players rest during the season to make sure they're in peak shape when the playoffs roll around.

"If I'm healthy, I play,” James said last December. "I mean, that should be the approach."

But without the usual four months to recover from the rigors of the previous season, even former president Barack Obama has suggested that James may have to spend less time on court.

Obama, appearing on an episode of HBO's "The Shop" said James is "definitely going to have some minutes restrictions” in the new season -- quipping that he should let younger teammate Anthony Davis absorb the load.

"That’s what I got him for," James said.

The quick turnaround from the Los Angeles Lakers' NBA triumph in October mean the team will face a "balancing act" in keeping veteran superstar LeBron James at his best, Lakers vice president Rob Pelinka said Thursday.

The quick turnaround from the Los Angeles Lakers' NBA triumph in October mean the team will face a "balancing act" in keeping veteran superstar LeBron James at his best, Lakers vice president Rob Pelinka said Thursday. “That'll just be a balancing act throughout the season, recognizing that there was an extremely short layoff between championship and the start of the season and kind of figuring out what's best for LeBron, what's best for his health, the team's health, what's best for the league and kind of walking that carefully and thoughtfully throughout the year,” Pelinka said in a videoconference with reporters. James and the Lakers polished off the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals in the league's quarantine bubble in Orlando on October 11. With the 72-game 2020-21 season scheduled to tip off on December 22, it's less than a month to the start of training camps on December 1. James, who will turn 36 on December 30, has never been a fan of "load management," the technique used by teams to give uninjured players rest during the season to make sure they're in peak shape when the playoffs roll around. "If I'm healthy, I play,” James said last December. "I mean, that should be the approach." But without the usual four months to recover from the rigors of the previous season, even former president Barack Obama has suggested that James may have to spend less time on court. Obama, appearing on an episode of HBO's "The Shop" said James is "definitely going to have some minutes restrictions” in the new season -- quipping that he should let younger teammate Anthony Davis absorb the load. "That’s what I got him for," James said.

NBA champion Lakers face 'balancing act' in fast-approaching season

As many as 60 international and collegiate basketball players were signed by their respective new teams after the completion of the NBA 2020 Draft on Wednesday. Anthony Edwards was the #1 pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves whereas the starlet LaMelo Ball went #3 to Charlotte Hornets.&nbsp;

Isaac Okoro went to the Cavaliers as the #5 pick in the draft with the event filled with many such highlights including trades and busy hours for teams like Timberwolves.

Let us relive the most notable moments and highlights from the night as they happened.

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With the 60th pick of the NBA Draft, the <a href="https://twitter.com/PelicansNBA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PelicansNBA</a> select Sam Merrill (<a href="https://twitter.com/smerrill05?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@smerrill05</a>)! 
 
Check out the final draft results for the 2020 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBADraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBADraft</a>⤵ 
 
💻: <a href="https://t.co/6xQOwVKXCG">https://t.co/6xQOwVKXCG</a> <a href="https://t.co/I6qQKJZ6T2">pic.twitter.com/I6qQKJZ6T2</a>
— NBA Draft (@NBADraft) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBADraft/status/1329294766329237505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-announces-structure-and-format-for-2020-21-season-343846" hreflang="en">NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season</a>

<h2>NBA 2020 Draft: Trivia</h2>

<ol>
	<li>The Minnesota Timberwolves made the first pick for the second time in franchise history, selecting Georgia’s Anthony Edwards. In 2015, Minnesota used the top pick to select two-time NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns.</li>
	<li>At #2, James Wiseman is Golden State Warriors highest selection since drafting Harrison Barnes with the seventh pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. The Warriors picked second for the first time in the common draft era.</li>
	<li>The Charlotte Hornets picked third (LaMelo Ball) for the third time in franchise history. The Hornets previously selected Baron Davis (1999) and Adam Morrison (2006) with the third pick. LaMelo Ball and Lonzo Ball are the first pair of brothers in NBA history to each be selected in the top five of the NBA Draft.</li>
	<li>Florida State’s Patrick Williams, the fourth pick by the Chicago Bulls, joins Hall of Famer Dave Cowens as the highest draft pick in Seminoles history. Williams is Chicago’s highest pick since selecting Derrick Rose with the first pick in 2008.</li>
	<li>Killian Hayes was selected 7th overall by Detroit Pistons, becoming the highest-drafted French player ever. Hayes was named an All-Star at two Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global camps as part of NBA All-Star 2018 and 2019 and becomes the ninth former BWB camper to be drafted in the top 10 in the last five years.</li>
	<li>Deni Avdija is the second player from Israel to be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft (#9), joining Omri Casspi, the 23rd pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. Avdija is Chicago’s highest pick since selecting Derrick Rose with the first pick in 2008.</li>
	<li>The San Antonio Spurs selected Florida State’s Devin Vassell with the 11th pick, their first selection in the NBA Draft Lottery since 1997, when they selected 15-time NBA All-Star and five-time NBA champion Tim Duncan with the first pick. The Spurs’ highest selection since Duncan was Lonnie Walker III with the 18th pick in 2018.</li>
</ol>

<h2>NBA 2020 Draft: Top Picks and Quotes</h2>

<h2>Anthony Edwards to Minnesota Timberwolves</h2>

"I feel like I'm going to fit perfect with those guys because (D’Angelo) Russell likes to play off the ball sometimes, and I can play on the ball. When he wants to play on the rock, I can play off the ball. And KAT is the best three-point shooting big man in the league. So I feel we can't go wrong with that, a lot of pick-and-pops, pick-and-rolls and such."

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With the 1st pick of the NBA Draft, the <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Timberwolves</a> select Anthony Edwards (<a href="https://twitter.com/theantman05?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@theantman05</a>)! 
 
2020 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBADraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBADraft</a> presented by State Farm LIVE on ESPN!
— NBA Draft (@NBADraft) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBADraft/status/1329230774382579712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>James Wiseman to Golden State Warriors</h2>

"I have a great relationship with Steph. Obviously, I went to his camp, so he taught me a lot. When I was in high school, he taught me a lot about the game of basketball, gave me a lot of information. I just took a picture with him. So that's my guy."

<h2>LaMelo Ball to Charlotte Hornets</h2>

"I definitely feel great falling into with them. But the way I've fallen down, I never looked at it like that because, like I say, whatever happens happens, and I feel like it's God's plan. So wherever he wanted to put me, that's where he put me, and I feel like he's going to let me blossom there."

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With the 3rd pick of the NBA Draft, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hornets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hornets</a> select LaMelo Ball (<a href="https://twitter.com/MELOD1P?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MELOD1P</a>)! 
 
2020 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBADraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBADraft</a> presented by State Farm
— NBA Draft (@NBADraft) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBADraft/status/1329234110309658624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Patrick Williams to Chicago Bulls</h2>

"I can't really say too much, but I just know my dreams are bigger than draft night. I think I'd rather show you what those dreams are rather than tell you right now. I'm just ready to get to Chicago and get to work on those dreams."

<h2>Isaac Okoro to Cleveland Cavaliers</h2>

"It feels great to be the first Nigerian in this draft to be drafted. It's also just a blessing. Like you said, my mom always tells me to keep that Nigerian pride. Even though I wasn't born in Nigeria, I still got Nigerian blood. So it's just having that on my shoulders."

<h2>Onyeka Okongwu to Atlanta Hawks</h2>

"Obviously my favorite player is LeBron James and Giannis [Antetokounmpo]. I feel like those are the top players in the league, and obviously I want to go up against the Ball brothers. They were my teammates in high school, so having that friendly battle against them, I'm really looking forward to that."

<h2>Killian Hayes to Detroit Pistons</h2>

"I can definitely learn from him. I remember when I was like 10, 11, watching D. Rose highlights. I can really learn a lot from him about the game. He played in the league for a long time now, so he knows the game and how it goes down in the NBA."

<h2>Obi Toppin to New York Knicks</h2>

"I feel like nothing has came easy for me. I went through a lot of things growing up, and I feel like through those struggles and through those bad times that I've been through growing up, it's made me the person and player that I am today. I learned from those experiences on court and off court. I feel like going through those experiences helped me become who I am today, and I wouldn't change it for anything."

<h2>Deni Advija to Washington Wizards</h2>

"I didn't imagine that. It was crazy for me. Israel is such a small country that doesn't provide as many NBA players as other countries, but for me just to represent my country and to make history, that's a blessing. I have the whole nation behind me. I hope I'm going to represent well. I never dreamed about this moment. I'm thinking it's just still a dream. I mean, I don't have any words."

<h2>Jalen Smith to Phoenix Suns</h2>

"Pretty much what I bring to the Phoenix Suns is defensive versatility. Like I said before, every team has tremendous scorers. So we have Devin Booker, Chris Paul, Deandre Ayton. I feel that's where I can make my impact the most, help them create the offense."

As many as 60 international and collegiate basketball players were signed by their respective new teams after the completion of the NBA 2020 Draft on Wednesday. Anthony Edwards was the #1 pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves whereas the starlet LaMelo Ball went #3 to Charlotte Hornets.

As many as 60 international and collegiate basketball players were signed by their respective new teams after the completion of the NBA 2020 Draft on Wednesday. Anthony Edwards was the #1 pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves whereas the starlet LaMelo Ball went #3 to Charlotte Hornets. Isaac Okoro went to the Cavaliers as the #5 pick in the draft with the event filled with many such highlights including trades and busy hours for teams like Timberwolves. Let us relive the most notable moments and highlights from the night as they happened. With the 60th pick of the NBA Draft, the @PelicansNBA select Sam Merrill (@smerrill05)! Check out the final draft results for the 2020 #NBADraft⤵ 💻: https://t.co/6xQOwVKXCG pic.twitter.com/I6qQKJZ6T2 — NBA Draft (@NBADraft) November 19, 2020 × ALSO READ: NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season NBA 2020 Draft: Trivia The Minnesota Timberwolves made the first pick for the second time in franchise history, selecting Georgia’s Anthony Edwards. In 2015, Minnesota used the top pick to select two-time NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns. At #2, James Wiseman is Golden State Warriors highest selection since drafting Harrison Barnes with the seventh pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. The Warriors picked second for the first time in the common draft era. The Charlotte Hornets picked third (LaMelo Ball) for the third time in franchise history. The Hornets previously selected Baron Davis (1999) and Adam Morrison (2006) with the third pick. LaMelo Ball and Lonzo Ball are the first pair of brothers in NBA history to each be selected in the top five of the NBA Draft. Florida State’s Patrick Williams, the fourth pick by the Chicago Bulls, joins Hall of Famer Dave Cowens as the highest draft pick in Seminoles history. Williams is Chicago’s highest pick since selecting Derrick Rose with the first pick in 2008. Killian Hayes was selected 7th overall by Detroit Pistons, becoming the highest-drafted French player ever. Hayes was named an All-Star at two Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global camps as part of NBA All-Star 2018 and 2019 and becomes the ninth former BWB camper to be drafted in the top 10 in the last five years. Deni Avdija is the second player from Israel to be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft (#9), joining Omri Casspi, the 23rd pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. Avdija is Chicago’s highest pick since selecting Derrick Rose with the first pick in 2008. The San Antonio Spurs selected Florida State’s Devin Vassell with the 11th pick, their first selection in the NBA Draft Lottery since 1997, when they selected 15-time NBA All-Star and five-time NBA champion Tim Duncan with the first pick. The Spurs’ highest selection since Duncan was Lonnie Walker III with the 18th pick in 2018. NBA 2020 Draft: Top Picks and Quotes Anthony Edwards to Minnesota Timberwolves "I feel like I'm going to fit perfect with those guys because (D’Angelo) Russell likes to play off the ball sometimes, and I can play on the ball. When he wants to play on the rock, I can play off the ball. And KAT is the best three-point shooting big man in the league. So I feel we can't go wrong with that, a lot of pick-and-pops, pick-and-rolls and such." With the 1st pick of the NBA Draft, the @Timberwolves select Anthony Edwards (@theantman05)! 2020 #NBADraft presented by State Farm LIVE on ESPN! — NBA Draft (@NBADraft) November 19, 2020 × James Wiseman to Golden State Warriors "I have a great relationship with Steph. Obviously, I went to his camp, so he taught me a lot. When I was in high school, he taught me a lot about the game of basketball, gave me a lot of information. I just took a picture with him. So that's my guy." LaMelo Ball to Charlotte Hornets "I definitely feel great falling into with them. But the way I've fallen down, I never looked at it like that because, like I say, whatever happens happens, and I feel like it's God's plan. So wherever he wanted to put me, that's where he put me, and I feel like he's going to let me blossom there." With the 3rd pick of the NBA Draft, the @hornets select LaMelo Ball (@MELOD1P)! 2020 #NBADraft presented by State Farm — NBA Draft (@NBADraft) November 19, 2020 × Patrick Williams to Chicago Bulls "I can't really say too much, but I just know my dreams are bigger than draft night. I think I'd rather show you what those dreams are rather than tell you right now. I'm just ready to get to Chicago and get to work on those dreams." Isaac Okoro to Cleveland Cavaliers "It feels great to be the first Nigerian in this draft to be drafted. It's also just a blessing. Like you said, my mom always tells me to keep that Nigerian pride. Even though I wasn't born in Nigeria, I still got Nigerian blood. So it's just having that on my shoulders." Onyeka Okongwu to Atlanta Hawks "Obviously my favorite player is LeBron James and Giannis [Antetokounmpo]. I feel like those are the top players in the league, and obviously I want to go up against the Ball brothers. They were my teammates in high school, so having that friendly battle against them, I'm really looking forward to that." Killian Hayes to Detroit Pistons "I can definitely learn from him. I remember when I was like 10, 11, watching D. Rose highlights. I can really learn a lot from him about the game. He played in the league for a long time now, so he knows the game and how it goes down in the NBA." Obi Toppin to New York Knicks "I feel like nothing has came easy for me. I went through a lot of things growing up, and I feel like through those struggles and through those bad times that I've been through growing up, it's made me the person and player that I am today. I learned from those experiences on court and off court. I feel like going through those experiences helped me become who I am today, and I wouldn't change it for anything." Deni Advija to Washington Wizards "I didn't imagine that. It was crazy for me. Israel is such a small country that doesn't provide as many NBA players as other countries, but for me just to represent my country and to make history, that's a blessing. I have the whole nation behind me. I hope I'm going to represent well. I never dreamed about this moment. I'm thinking it's just still a dream. I mean, I don't have any words." Jalen Smith to Phoenix Suns "Pretty much what I bring to the Phoenix Suns is defensive versatility. Like I said before, every team has tremendous scorers. So we have Devin Booker, Chris Paul, Deandre Ayton. I feel that's where I can make my impact the most, help them create the offense."

NBA Draft 2020: Top picks, trivia and best quotes

With less than 24 hours away from a career-defining moment, LaMelo Ball bottled his excitement for the D-Day. The brevity of his answers to any and all questions didn’t give away anything until he was asked about why he should be the #1 pick. “I was born to be #1 pick,” asserted Ball. “Being the #1 pick definitely holds a lot to me.”

The youngest of the Ball brothers has been a journeyman even before getting drafted into the NBA. Having played professionally in the Australian NBL, Lithuania, competing at the SPIRE Institute in Ohio after leaving Chino Hills (Calif.) High School as a junior, Ball feels all the stops helped him become a better player. “I feel like when you go overseas, it’s a whole new different style of play; something that you can just add to the arsenal,” Ball said. “So, I feel like it helped me in that aspect.”

Ask him if it was a gamble to not have college experience and play professionally, Ball shrugs it off. “You could say it was a gamble, but for me, I already figured out what was gonna happen, me going there, what I was getting myself into,” said Ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-announces-structure-and-format-for-2020-21-season-343846" hreflang="en">NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season</a>

In Detroit since March for Draft training, Ball conducted workouts with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons. The Timberwolves, Warriors and Hornets own the top three picks.

But his father LaVar Ball has other ideas as he wants LaMelo to play for the New York Knicks or Pistons. “He probably just likes the big market,” the 6ft 7in player said. “He raised me, taught me the game pretty much; everything I knew when I was little. So, I appreciate all that. It’s my pops, so he’s always gonna be involved.”

Ball’s brother Lonzo is a guard with the New Orleans Pelicans and was also the second pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. So, Ball knows the weight of expectations on his shoulder but isn’t too worried about it. “I am ok. No pressure, it is just basketball. I am cool,” said Ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-2020-draft-history-stats-and-all-the-numbers-you-need-to-know-343844" hreflang="en">NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know</a>

All this might change a little bit though minutes after his name is announced. But Ball is ready to play the role that comes with being one of the most spoken about the prospect. “Pretty much whenever I get there, and [whatever] the coach asks me to do, I’m gonna do,” he said of his role with the team that drafts him.

For now, his typical day is about waking up, going to work out and shoot, get some breakfast, come back and stretch, go to the gym at around 6 PM, come back, eat while watching a movie and repeat it the next day. This routine may never be the same again after the 2020 NBA Draft.

2020 NBA DRAFT ORDER

1. Minnesota 2. Golden State 3. Charlotte 4. Chicago 5. Cleveland 6. Atlanta 7. Detroit 8. New York 9. Washington 10. Phoenix 11. San Antonio 12. Sacramento 13. New Orleans 14. Boston (from Memphis) 15. Orlando 16. Portland 17. Minnesota (from Brooklyn via Atlanta) 18. Dallas 19. Brooklyn (from Philadelphia via LA Clippers) 20. Miami 21. Philadelphia (from OKC via Orlando and Philadelphia) 22. Denver (from Houston) 23. Utah 24. Milwaukee (from Indiana) 25. Oklahoma City (from Denver) 26. Boston 27. New York (from LA Clippers) 28. Los Angeles Lakers 29. Toronto 30. Boston (from Milwaukee via Phoenix) 31. Dallas (from Golden State) 32. Charlotte (from Cleveland via LA Clippers and Orlando) 33. Minnesota 34. Philadelphia (from Atlanta) 35. Sacramento (from Detroit via Phoenix) 36. Philadelphia (from New York) 37. Washington (from Chicago) 38. New York (from Charlotte) 39. New Orleans (from Washington via Milwaukee) 40. Memphis (from Phoenix) 41. San Antonio 42. New Orleans 43. Sacramento 44. Chicago (from Memphis) 45. Orlando 46. Portland 47. Boston (from Brooklyn via Charlotte, Orlando and Philadelphia) 48. Golden State (from Dallas via Philadelphia) 49. Philadelphia 50. Atlanta (from Miami via Sacramento, Cleveland and Boston) 51. Golden State (from Utah via Dallas, Detroit and Cleveland) 52. Sacramento (from Houston) 53. Oklahoma City 54. Indiana 55. Brooklyn (from Denver) 56. Charlotte (from Boston) 57. LA Clippers 58. Philadelphia (from Los Angeles Lakers via Orlando) 59. Toronto 60. New Orleans (from Milwaukee)

With less than 24 hours away from a career-defining moment, LaMelo Ball bottled his excitement for the D-Day. The brevity of his answers to any and all questions didn’t give away anything until he was asked about why he should be the #1 pick.

With less than 24 hours away from a career-defining moment, LaMelo Ball bottled his excitement for the D-Day. The brevity of his answers to any and all questions didn’t give away anything until he was asked about why he should be the #1 pick. “I was born to be #1 pick,” asserted Ball. “Being the #1 pick definitely holds a lot to me.” The youngest of the Ball brothers has been a journeyman even before getting drafted into the NBA. Having played professionally in the Australian NBL, Lithuania, competing at the SPIRE Institute in Ohio after leaving Chino Hills (Calif.) High School as a junior, Ball feels all the stops helped him become a better player. “I feel like when you go overseas, it’s a whole new different style of play; something that you can just add to the arsenal,” Ball said. “So, I feel like it helped me in that aspect.” Ask him if it was a gamble to not have college experience and play professionally, Ball shrugs it off. “You could say it was a gamble, but for me, I already figured out what was gonna happen, me going there, what I was getting myself into,” said Ball. ALSO READ: NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season In Detroit since March for Draft training, Ball conducted workouts with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons. The Timberwolves, Warriors and Hornets own the top three picks. But his father LaVar Ball has other ideas as he wants LaMelo to play for the New York Knicks or Pistons. “He probably just likes the big market,” the 6ft 7in player said. “He raised me, taught me the game pretty much; everything I knew when I was little. So, I appreciate all that. It’s my pops, so he’s always gonna be involved.” Ball’s brother Lonzo is a guard with the New Orleans Pelicans and was also the second pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. So, Ball knows the weight of expectations on his shoulder but isn’t too worried about it. “I am ok. No pressure, it is just basketball. I am cool,” said Ball. ALSO READ: NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know All this might change a little bit though minutes after his name is announced. But Ball is ready to play the role that comes with being one of the most spoken about the prospect. “Pretty much whenever I get there, and [whatever] the coach asks me to do, I’m gonna do,” he said of his role with the team that drafts him. For now, his typical day is about waking up, going to work out and shoot, get some breakfast, come back and stretch, go to the gym at around 6 PM, come back, eat while watching a movie and repeat it the next day. This routine may never be the same again after the 2020 NBA Draft. 2020 NBA DRAFT ORDER 1. Minnesota 2. Golden State 3. Charlotte 4. Chicago 5. Cleveland 6. Atlanta 7. Detroit 8. New York 9. Washington 10. Phoenix 11. San Antonio 12. Sacramento 13. New Orleans 14. Boston (from Memphis) 15. Orlando 16. Portland 17. Minnesota (from Brooklyn via Atlanta) 18. Dallas 19. Brooklyn (from Philadelphia via LA Clippers) 20. Miami 21. Philadelphia (from OKC via Orlando and Philadelphia) 22. Denver (from Houston) 23. Utah 24. Milwaukee (from Indiana) 25. Oklahoma City (from Denver) 26. Boston 27. New York (from LA Clippers) 28. Los Angeles Lakers 29. Toronto 30. Boston (from Milwaukee via Phoenix) 31. Dallas (from Golden State) 32. Charlotte (from Cleveland via LA Clippers and Orlando) 33. Minnesota 34. Philadelphia (from Atlanta) 35. Sacramento (from Detroit via Phoenix) 36. Philadelphia (from New York) 37. Washington (from Chicago) 38. New York (from Charlotte) 39. New Orleans (from Washington via Milwaukee) 40. Memphis (from Phoenix) 41. San Antonio 42. New Orleans 43. Sacramento 44. Chicago (from Memphis) 45. Orlando 46. Portland 47. Boston (from Brooklyn via Charlotte, Orlando and Philadelphia) 48. Golden State (from Dallas via Philadelphia) 49. Philadelphia 50. Atlanta (from Miami via Sacramento, Cleveland and Boston) 51. Golden State (from Utah via Dallas, Detroit and Cleveland) 52. Sacramento (from Houston) 53. Oklahoma City 54. Indiana 55. Brooklyn (from Denver) 56. Charlotte (from Boston) 57. LA Clippers 58. Philadelphia (from Los Angeles Lakers via Orlando) 59. Toronto 60. New Orleans (from Milwaukee)

I was born to be the #1 pick: LaMelo Ball

NBA Draft 2020 will be held virtually on Wednesday, November&nbsp;18 at 8 pm&nbsp;ET at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, airing live on ESPN, ESPN Radio and the ESPN App. &nbsp;ESPN’s pre-draft coverage will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET. &nbsp;

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum will appear in-studio at ESPN to announce the selections for the first and second rounds, respectively. Select draftees, including many of the potential top picks, will appear virtually throughout the broadcast. &nbsp;

<h2>Here is a by-the-numbers look at this year’s NBA Draft: &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

History&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>1 – NBA Draft 2020&nbsp;will be the league’s first virtual draft and the first draft held at ESPN.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>7 – Seven players have played in the NBA G League before being drafted by an NBA team, the most recent being Alen Smailagić, the 39th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>10 – A college freshman has been selected with the first overall pick in each of the last 10 drafts. &nbsp;The last non-freshman to be the first overall draft pick was Oklahoma sophomore Blake Griffin in 2009.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>14 – This marks the 14th consecutive year that Adam Silver will announce draft selections as either deputy commissioner (seven years) or commissioner (seven years including 2020).&nbsp;</li>
	<li>107 – The distance between Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, the venue for the last seven NBA Drafts, and ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, the site of this year’s draft, is approximately 107 miles.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>146 – The 2020 NBA Draft will take place 146 days after its originally scheduled date of June 25.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>1975 – This is the first NBA Draft not held in June since 1975.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>1989 – The current two-round format for the NBA Draft was adopted in 1989.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Teams&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>1 – The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to make the first overall pick in the NBA Draft for the second time. &nbsp;In 2015, the Timberwolves used the first overall pick to select two-time NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>2 – The Warriors are poised to make the second overall pick in the NBA Draft for the first time in the common draft era (since 1966). &nbsp;</li>
	<li>3 – The Boston Celtics hold three first-round picks (Nos. 14, 26 and 30) after making three first-round picks last year. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>5 – The Philadelphia 76ers have a league-high five picks in this year’s draft (No. 21 in the first round and Nos. 34, 36, 49 and 58 in the second round).&nbsp;</li>
	<li>11 – With the 11th selection of the first round, the San Antonio Spurs are preparing to make their highest draft pick since selecting Tim Duncan with the first overall pick in 1997. &nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Class Superlatives&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>1 – Memphis center James Wiseman was ESPN’s No. 1-ranked high school player in the Class of 2019. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>6 – Iowa State guard Tyrese Haliburton recorded the sixth triple-double in school history during the 2019-20 season. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>8 – USC forward Onyeka Okongwu matched a single-game school record last season with eight blocked shots in his first collegiate game.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>16 – Maccabi Tel Aviv guard-forward Deni Avdija made his professional debut with his current team at age 16 (he turns 20 in January). &nbsp;</li>
	<li>19.1 – Georgia guard Anthony Edwards was the nation’s freshman scoring leader at 19.1 points per game in the 2019-20 season. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>107 – Dayton forward Obi Toppin, the 2019-20 consensus National Player of the Year, led the nation and set a single-season school record with 107 dunks last season.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>2005 – Last season, Illawarra Hawks guard LaMelo Ball became the first player to post triple-doubles in back-to-back games in Australia’s National Basketball League since 2005. &nbsp; &nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Family Ties&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>5 – Duke guard Tre Jones and his brother Tyus of the Memphis Grizzlies combined to win five Gatorade Minnesota Boys Basketball Player of the Year awards in high school.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>6 – Arizona guard Nico Mannion is the son of Pace Mannion, who played six NBA seasons.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>8 – Duke center Vernon Carey Jr.’s father, Vernon Sr., played eight NFL seasons as an offensive lineman with the Miami Dolphins.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>12 – North Carolina guard Cole Anthony’s father, Greg, now a basketball analyst for Turner Sports, was the 12th pick in the 1991 NBA Draft. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>16 – Washington forward Jaden McDaniels is the brother of Charlotte Hornets forward Jalen McDaniels, who appeared in 16 NBA games as a rookie in the 2019-20 season.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>1,512 – Vanderbilt guard Saben Lee is the son of former Florida State All-America running back Amp Lee, who rushed for 1,512 yards in the NFL. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>1982 – Maccabi Tel Aviv guard-forward Deni Avdija’s father, Zufer, won a bronze medal with Yugoslavia at the 1982 FIBA Basketball World Cup.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>2000 – IMG Academy forward KJ Martin is the son of Kenyon Martin, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>5.6M – Illawarra Hawks guard LaMelo Ball, the brother of the New Orleans Pelicans’ Lonzo Ball, has more than 5.6 million followers on Instagram. &nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Global Game&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>3 – This year’s draft class has the potential to break the record (three) for most players from one Basketball Without Borders camp in the same draft. &nbsp;Killian Hayes (France), Josh Green (Australia), Leandro Bolmaro (Argentina), Paul Eboua (Cameroon) and Vit Krejčí (Czech Republic) all participated in BWB Global 2018 as part of NBA All-Star 2018.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>5 – This year’s draft class has the potential to break the record (five) for most players from Africa selected in one NBA Draft.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>7 – Seven players in this year’s draft class have ties to Nigeria. &nbsp;Kansas center Udoka Azubuike and Memphis forward Precious Achiuwa are from Nigeria, and an additional five potential draftees have at least one parent from Nigeria: Isaac Okoro (Auburn), Onyeka Okongwu (USC), Zeke Nnaji (Arizona), Daniel Oturu (Minnesota) and Jordan Nwora (Louisville).&nbsp;</li>
	<li>7/22 – Deni Avdija and Killian Hayes are seeking to become the highest-drafted players ever from Israel and France, respectively. &nbsp;If Hayes is drafted in the top seven, he will be the highest-drafted French player ever. &nbsp;If Avdija is drafted in the top 22, he will be the highest-drafted Israeli player ever. &nbsp;Avdija and Hayes competed against one another at Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global 2019 as part of NBA All-Star 2019. &nbsp;Avdija was named MVP of the camp while Hayes was named an All-Star.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>13 – There have been 13 international players drafted No. 1 overall, most recently the Phoenix Suns’ Deandre Ayton (Bahamas) in 2018.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>27 – A record 27 international players were drafted in 2016, including a record 15 in the first round and a record-tying 12 in the second round.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>69 – Since 2001, 69 former Basketball Without Borders campers have been drafted into the NBA or signed as free agents.</li>
</ul>

Partnership/Tech&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>17 – ESPN will deliver live look-ins from 17 team draft rooms. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>18 – ESPN will present the NBA Draft for the 18th consecutive year. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>19 – Nineteen broadcast satellite trucks will be used to help present the draft, including 15 trucks throughout the U.S. and four trucks internationally to connect with prospects located in France, Greece, Israel and Spain.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>30 – In this unique year, 30 draft prospects received NBA Draft Gifting Lockers, which featured media kits (Microsoft Surface tablet, Beat Powerbeats Pro earbuds, iPhone with tripod, Ring light, Beats Pill wireless speaker) and a variety of products from NBA partners including Spalding, New Era, Beats By Dr. Dre and Oculus.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>180 – More than 180 young people from the Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of America, Learn Fresh, TAPS and Jr. NBA joined 30 Draft prospects for a NBA Cares “Road to Success” virtual community series presented State Farm® on Monday, discussing topics such as physical and mental wellness, leadership, activism, mentorship and more. &nbsp;</li>
</ul>

NBA Draft 2020 will be held virtually on Wednesday, November 18 at 8 pm ET at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, airing live on ESPN, ESPN Radio and the ESPN App.

NBA Draft 2020 will be held virtually on Wednesday, November 18 at 8 pm ET at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, airing live on ESPN, ESPN Radio and the ESPN App. ESPN’s pre-draft coverage will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum will appear in-studio at ESPN to announce the selections for the first and second rounds, respectively. Select draftees, including many of the potential top picks, will appear virtually throughout the broadcast. Here is a by-the-numbers look at this year’s NBA Draft: History 1 – NBA Draft 2020 will be the league’s first virtual draft and the first draft held at ESPN. 7 – Seven players have played in the NBA G League before being drafted by an NBA team, the most recent being Alen Smailagić, the 39th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. 10 – A college freshman has been selected with the first overall pick in each of the last 10 drafts. The last non-freshman to be the first overall draft pick was Oklahoma sophomore Blake Griffin in 2009. 14 – This marks the 14th consecutive year that Adam Silver will announce draft selections as either deputy commissioner (seven years) or commissioner (seven years including 2020). 107 – The distance between Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, the venue for the last seven NBA Drafts, and ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, the site of this year’s draft, is approximately 107 miles. 146 – The 2020 NBA Draft will take place 146 days after its originally scheduled date of June 25. 1975 – This is the first NBA Draft not held in June since 1975. 1989 – The current two-round format for the NBA Draft was adopted in 1989. Teams 1 – The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to make the first overall pick in the NBA Draft for the second time. In 2015, the Timberwolves used the first overall pick to select two-time NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns. 2 – The Warriors are poised to make the second overall pick in the NBA Draft for the first time in the common draft era (since 1966). 3 – The Boston Celtics hold three first-round picks (Nos. 14, 26 and 30) after making three first-round picks last year. 5 – The Philadelphia 76ers have a league-high five picks in this year’s draft (No. 21 in the first round and Nos. 34, 36, 49 and 58 in the second round). 11 – With the 11th selection of the first round, the San Antonio Spurs are preparing to make their highest draft pick since selecting Tim Duncan with the first overall pick in 1997. Class Superlatives 1 – Memphis center James Wiseman was ESPN’s No. 1-ranked high school player in the Class of 2019. 6 – Iowa State guard Tyrese Haliburton recorded the sixth triple-double in school history during the 2019-20 season. 8 – USC forward Onyeka Okongwu matched a single-game school record last season with eight blocked shots in his first collegiate game. 16 – Maccabi Tel Aviv guard-forward Deni Avdija made his professional debut with his current team at age 16 (he turns 20 in January). 19.1 – Georgia guard Anthony Edwards was the nation’s freshman scoring leader at 19.1 points per game in the 2019-20 season. 107 – Dayton forward Obi Toppin, the 2019-20 consensus National Player of the Year, led the nation and set a single-season school record with 107 dunks last season. 2005 – Last season, Illawarra Hawks guard LaMelo Ball became the first player to post triple-doubles in back-to-back games in Australia’s National Basketball League since 2005. Family Ties 5 – Duke guard Tre Jones and his brother Tyus of the Memphis Grizzlies combined to win five Gatorade Minnesota Boys Basketball Player of the Year awards in high school. 6 – Arizona guard Nico Mannion is the son of Pace Mannion, who played six NBA seasons. 8 – Duke center Vernon Carey Jr.’s father, Vernon Sr., played eight NFL seasons as an offensive lineman with the Miami Dolphins. 12 – North Carolina guard Cole Anthony’s father, Greg, now a basketball analyst for Turner Sports, was the 12th pick in the 1991 NBA Draft. 16 – Washington forward Jaden McDaniels is the brother of Charlotte Hornets forward Jalen McDaniels, who appeared in 16 NBA games as a rookie in the 2019-20 season. 1,512 – Vanderbilt guard Saben Lee is the son of former Florida State All-America running back Amp Lee, who rushed for 1,512 yards in the NFL. 1982 – Maccabi Tel Aviv guard-forward Deni Avdija’s father, Zufer, won a bronze medal with Yugoslavia at the 1982 FIBA Basketball World Cup. 2000 – IMG Academy forward KJ Martin is the son of Kenyon Martin, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft. 5.6M – Illawarra Hawks guard LaMelo Ball, the brother of the New Orleans Pelicans’ Lonzo Ball, has more than 5.6 million followers on Instagram. Global Game 3 – This year’s draft class has the potential to break the record (three) for most players from one Basketball Without Borders camp in the same draft. Killian Hayes (France), Josh Green (Australia), Leandro Bolmaro (Argentina), Paul Eboua (Cameroon) and Vit Krejčí (Czech Republic) all participated in BWB Global 2018 as part of NBA All-Star 2018. 5 – This year’s draft class has the potential to break the record (five) for most players from Africa selected in one NBA Draft. 7 – Seven players in this year’s draft class have ties to Nigeria. Kansas center Udoka Azubuike and Memphis forward Precious Achiuwa are from Nigeria, and an additional five potential draftees have at least one parent from Nigeria: Isaac Okoro (Auburn), Onyeka Okongwu (USC), Zeke Nnaji (Arizona), Daniel Oturu (Minnesota) and Jordan Nwora (Louisville). 7/22 – Deni Avdija and Killian Hayes are seeking to become the highest-drafted players ever from Israel and France, respectively. If Hayes is drafted in the top seven, he will be the highest-drafted French player ever. If Avdija is drafted in the top 22, he will be the highest-drafted Israeli player ever. Avdija and Hayes competed against one another at Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global 2019 as part of NBA All-Star 2019. Avdija was named MVP of the camp while Hayes was named an All-Star. 13 – There have been 13 international players drafted No. 1 overall, most recently the Phoenix Suns’ Deandre Ayton (Bahamas) in 2018. 27 – A record 27 international players were drafted in 2016, including a record 15 in the first round and a record-tying 12 in the second round. 69 – Since 2001, 69 former Basketball Without Borders campers have been drafted into the NBA or signed as free agents. Partnership/Tech 17 – ESPN will deliver live look-ins from 17 team draft rooms. 18 – ESPN will present the NBA Draft for the 18th consecutive year. 19 – Nineteen broadcast satellite trucks will be used to help present the draft, including 15 trucks throughout the U.S. and four trucks internationally to connect with prospects located in France, Greece, Israel and Spain. 30 – In this unique year, 30 draft prospects received NBA Draft Gifting Lockers, which featured media kits (Microsoft Surface tablet, Beat Powerbeats Pro earbuds, iPhone with tripod, Ring light, Beats Pill wireless speaker) and a variety of products from NBA partners including Spalding, New Era, Beats By Dr. Dre and Oculus. 180 – More than 180 young people from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Learn Fresh, TAPS and Jr. NBA joined 30 Draft prospects for a NBA Cares “Road to Success” virtual community series presented State Farm® on Monday, discussing topics such as physical and mental wellness, leadership, activism, mentorship and more.

NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know

NBA Finals: LA Laker win record-tying 17th title

LeBron James scored 28 points as the Los Angeles Lakers moved to within one win of a 17th NBA championship on Tuesday with a 102-96 victory over the Miami Heat.

Humbled by Miami in game three on Sunday, James and the Lakers came roaring back in a hard-fought defensive battle that was finely balanced until Los Angeles pulled away in the closing minutes.

The win leaves the Lakers 3-1 up in the best-of-seven series, meaning they can clinch the championship with victory in game five in Orlando on Friday.

"It felt like both teams were desperate, understanding the situation they had put themselves in," James said afterwards.

"Trying to get every extra possession, execute offensively, not to make mistakes defensively, that's what it was all about."

James started slowly but clicked in the second half to lead the scoring while providing eight assists and hauling down 12 rebounds.

Anthony Davis meanwhile finished with 22 points, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope chipped in with a vital 15 point contribution.

Caldwell-Pope's tally included a three-pointer and a layup in the closing stages that put the Lakers seven points ahead with two minutes remaining.

Davis then drained only his second three-pointer of the night with 39.5 seconds left on the clock to give the Lakers a 100-91 lead and effectively seal the contest.

Butler, the 40-point hero of Miami's win on Sunday, was restricted to 22 points, frustrated throughout by a commanding defensive display from Davis.

"He challenges me every night, I challenge him every night," James said of Davis.&nbsp;

"We have to do things to help our team win, defensively, and offensively, and he did that tonight -- he was spectacular."

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Moments of truth' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said the game had been decided in key moments in the closing stages.

"There was some moments of truth there at the end, and probably the bottom line is they won those moments of truth," Spoelstra said.

"It came down to making plays. They just made more plays and more shots to seal it."

An attritional contest saw defenses on top throughout, with Miami containing the threat of James and Davis for long periods.

James in particular struggled to generate his usual rhythm throughout the first half, giving up five turnovers and scoring just eight points.

The Lakers looked to have built a head of steam towards the end of the first quarter, edging into a 27-22 lead after a Kyle Kuzma three-pointer and a driving layup from Alex Caruso.

But Miami responded swiftly at the start of the second quarter, transforming a five-point deficit into a 33-29 lead after Jae Crowder's three-pointer.

Butler, meanwhile had started smoothly, going five-from-five in the first quarter to move into double figures.

Despite Miami's defensive efforts, the Lakers were still able to carve open a series of good looks, only for off-target shooting to let them down.

Nevertheless the Lakers had inched into a two-point lead at half-time at 49-47.

In the third quarter, James' shooting from distance improved, his first three-pointer of the night coming with a 29-foot effort to put the Lakers ahead at 55-54.

A Danny Green bucket was followed by a driving layup from James and the Lakers had suddenly moved into a 59-54 lead.

James made another long-range three shortly afterward to put the Lakers 62-57 up with 6:44 left in the third.

Davis's first three-pointer of the game from 28 feet put the Lakers seven points clear with two minutes left in the third.

The Los Angeles big man closed the quarter with four free throws to leave the Lakers five points clear heading into the fourth.

The Lakers maintained that advantage for much of the fourth quarter.

Tyler Herro's three-point jump shot cut the Lakers lead to one point at 76-75, but three free throws from Markieff Morris followed by a superb fadeaway from James stretched the Los Angeles cushion to six points midway through the fourth.

Butler raised Miami's hopes after tying it at 83-83, but the Lakers pulled away with Caldwell-Pope's three-pointer transition followed by a layup to make it 95-88 with two minutes left on the clock.

Rajon Rondo's layup was then followed by a Davis crucial three-pointer with 39.5 seconds left which sealed the win.&nbsp;

LeBron James scored 28 points as the Los Angeles Lakers moved to within one win of a 17th NBA championship on Tuesday with a 102-96 victory over the Miami Heat. Humbled by Miami in game three on Sunday, James and the Lakers came roaring back in a hard-fought defensive battle that was finely balanced until Los Angeles pulled away in the closing minutes.

LeBron James scored 28 points as the Los Angeles Lakers moved to within one win of a 17th NBA championship on Tuesday with a 102-96 victory over the Miami Heat. Humbled by Miami in game three on Sunday, James and the Lakers came roaring back in a hard-fought defensive battle that was finely balanced until Los Angeles pulled away in the closing minutes. The win leaves the Lakers 3-1 up in the best-of-seven series, meaning they can clinch the championship with victory in game five in Orlando on Friday. "It felt like both teams were desperate, understanding the situation they had put themselves in," James said afterwards. "Trying to get every extra possession, execute offensively, not to make mistakes defensively, that's what it was all about." James started slowly but clicked in the second half to lead the scoring while providing eight assists and hauling down 12 rebounds. Anthony Davis meanwhile finished with 22 points, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope chipped in with a vital 15 point contribution. Caldwell-Pope's tally included a three-pointer and a layup in the closing stages that put the Lakers seven points ahead with two minutes remaining. Davis then drained only his second three-pointer of the night with 39.5 seconds left on the clock to give the Lakers a 100-91 lead and effectively seal the contest. Butler, the 40-point hero of Miami's win on Sunday, was restricted to 22 points, frustrated throughout by a commanding defensive display from Davis. "He challenges me every night, I challenge him every night," James said of Davis. "We have to do things to help our team win, defensively, and offensively, and he did that tonight -- he was spectacular." - 'Moments of truth' - Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said the game had been decided in key moments in the closing stages. "There was some moments of truth there at the end, and probably the bottom line is they won those moments of truth," Spoelstra said. "It came down to making plays. They just made more plays and more shots to seal it." An attritional contest saw defenses on top throughout, with Miami containing the threat of James and Davis for long periods. James in particular struggled to generate his usual rhythm throughout the first half, giving up five turnovers and scoring just eight points. The Lakers looked to have built a head of steam towards the end of the first quarter, edging into a 27-22 lead after a Kyle Kuzma three-pointer and a driving layup from Alex Caruso. But Miami responded swiftly at the start of the second quarter, transforming a five-point deficit into a 33-29 lead after Jae Crowder's three-pointer. Butler, meanwhile had started smoothly, going five-from-five in the first quarter to move into double figures. Despite Miami's defensive efforts, the Lakers were still able to carve open a series of good looks, only for off-target shooting to let them down. Nevertheless the Lakers had inched into a two-point lead at half-time at 49-47. In the third quarter, James' shooting from distance improved, his first three-pointer of the night coming with a 29-foot effort to put the Lakers ahead at 55-54. A Danny Green bucket was followed by a driving layup from James and the Lakers had suddenly moved into a 59-54 lead. James made another long-range three shortly afterward to put the Lakers 62-57 up with 6:44 left in the third. Davis's first three-pointer of the game from 28 feet put the Lakers seven points clear with two minutes left in the third. The Los Angeles big man closed the quarter with four free throws to leave the Lakers five points clear heading into the fourth. The Lakers maintained that advantage for much of the fourth quarter. Tyler Herro's three-point jump shot cut the Lakers lead to one point at 76-75, but three free throws from Markieff Morris followed by a superb fadeaway from James stretched the Los Angeles cushion to six points midway through the fourth. Butler raised Miami's hopes after tying it at 83-83, but the Lakers pulled away with Caldwell-Pope's three-pointer transition followed by a layup to make it 95-88 with two minutes left on the clock. Rajon Rondo's layup was then followed by a Davis crucial three-pointer with 39.5 seconds left which sealed the win.

James, Davis put Lakers on brink as Miami downed

Anthony Davis and LeBron James powered Los Angeles to a 124-114 victory over the Miami Heat on Friday that put the Lakers two wins away from their first NBA title since 2010.

The injury depleted Heat hung on as best they could, but 33 points from James and 32 from Davis were just too much.

Davis, playing in his first NBA Finals, overpowered a Heat defense sorely missing injured Bam Adebayo. He added 14 rebounds as the Lakers took a two games to none lead in the best-of-seven NBA Finals in the league's quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida.

"He's a big-time player," James, playing in his 10th championship series, said of Davis, whose 14 rebounds included eight offensive boards. "He understands the position we're in."

Davis made 14 of his first 15 shots from the field, finishing with 15 baskets in 20 attempts.

For the second straight game James approached a triple-double, adding nine assists and nine rebounds.

Rajon Rondo added 16 points off the bench and Kyle Kuzma and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope added 11 points apiece for the Lakers.

Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 25 points and Kelly Olynyk added 24 off the bench as the Heat had to make do not only without Adebayo but with star guard Goran Dragic, who was sidelined by a left foot injury.

Even without them, James said, Miami remained a dangerous team, adding that the Lakers need to clamp down harder defensively.

"Myself, coach and AD were not happy with our defensive presence tonight," James said. "We can do a lot better.

"Myself and AD, we're not satisfied with just the win. We want to be great.

"They have five guys on the floor that's a threat, as they showed tonight," James added of Miami. "So we have to continue to stay on our P's and Q's and cross our T's and dot our I's through the course of a game."

Stung by the Heat's quick start in game one, the Lakers came out of the blocks hot.

Chasing a record-equalling 17th NBA title but their first in a decade, the Lakers dominated inside, outscoring the Heat 18-6 in the paint in the first quarter to emerge from the opening period six points up.

Danny Green's three-pointer pushed the Lakers lead to 13 three minutes into the second quarter.

The Heat got the deficit down to four three times, but Rondo, a former NBA champion with the Boston Celtics, came up big off the Lakers' bench, delivering impressive alley-oup passes first to James and then to Davis, whose dunk and free throw made it 64-49 with 1:48 remaining in the first half.

Rondo himself drove for a layup in the final minute of the half that stretched the Lakers' lead to 17 points, and they took a 68-54 advantage into the break.

The Lakers connected on 55.5% of their shots from the field in the opening half. They were less successful from three-point range but not from lack of trying, connecting on nine of their whopping 27 first-half attempts from beyond the arc.

They finished with 16 three-pointers on an astonishing 47 attempts.

Davis poured it on in the third quarter, piling up 15 points on an array of shots -- jumpers, a step-back three and a driving floater just the beginning.

<h2>- Moments of truth -</h2>

Although the Lakers stretched the lead to 18 points multiple times, the Heat wouldn't go away.

They out-scored Los Angeles 39-35 in the period -- but in the end they just didn't have sufficient stopping power and they couldn't get the deficit below nine points in the final quarter.

"We need a little bit more from everybody, whatever that is," Olynyk said.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra acknowledged that the Heat face a tough challenge against the bigger, physical Lakers.

"In those moments of truth when we had opportunities to get the game closer it usually seemed to end up in an offensive rebound or something near the basket," Spoelstra said.

"But this is the deal. If you want something badly enough you'll figure out how to overcome it.

"They have great size and Anthony Davis is an elite player. We're trying to get something accomplished and you just have to go to another level," added Spoelstra, whose team will try to do just that in game three on Sunday.

Anthony Davis and LeBron James powered Los Angeles to a 124-114 victory over the Miami Heat on Friday that put the Lakers two wins away from their first NBA title since 2010.

Anthony Davis and LeBron James powered Los Angeles to a 124-114 victory over the Miami Heat on Friday that put the Lakers two wins away from their first NBA title since 2010. The injury depleted Heat hung on as best they could, but 33 points from James and 32 from Davis were just too much. Davis, playing in his first NBA Finals, overpowered a Heat defense sorely missing injured Bam Adebayo. He added 14 rebounds as the Lakers took a two games to none lead in the best-of-seven NBA Finals in the league's quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida. "He's a big-time player," James, playing in his 10th championship series, said of Davis, whose 14 rebounds included eight offensive boards. "He understands the position we're in." Davis made 14 of his first 15 shots from the field, finishing with 15 baskets in 20 attempts. For the second straight game James approached a triple-double, adding nine assists and nine rebounds. Rajon Rondo added 16 points off the bench and Kyle Kuzma and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope added 11 points apiece for the Lakers. Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 25 points and Kelly Olynyk added 24 off the bench as the Heat had to make do not only without Adebayo but with star guard Goran Dragic, who was sidelined by a left foot injury. Even without them, James said, Miami remained a dangerous team, adding that the Lakers need to clamp down harder defensively. "Myself, coach and AD were not happy with our defensive presence tonight," James said. "We can do a lot better. "Myself and AD, we're not satisfied with just the win. We want to be great. "They have five guys on the floor that's a threat, as they showed tonight," James added of Miami. "So we have to continue to stay on our P's and Q's and cross our T's and dot our I's through the course of a game." Stung by the Heat's quick start in game one, the Lakers came out of the blocks hot. Chasing a record-equalling 17th NBA title but their first in a decade, the Lakers dominated inside, outscoring the Heat 18-6 in the paint in the first quarter to emerge from the opening period six points up. Danny Green's three-pointer pushed the Lakers lead to 13 three minutes into the second quarter. The Heat got the deficit down to four three times, but Rondo, a former NBA champion with the Boston Celtics, came up big off the Lakers' bench, delivering impressive alley-oup passes first to James and then to Davis, whose dunk and free throw made it 64-49 with 1:48 remaining in the first half. Rondo himself drove for a layup in the final minute of the half that stretched the Lakers' lead to 17 points, and they took a 68-54 advantage into the break. The Lakers connected on 55.5% of their shots from the field in the opening half. They were less successful from three-point range but not from lack of trying, connecting on nine of their whopping 27 first-half attempts from beyond the arc. They finished with 16 three-pointers on an astonishing 47 attempts. Davis poured it on in the third quarter, piling up 15 points on an array of shots -- jumpers, a step-back three and a driving floater just the beginning. - Moments of truth - Although the Lakers stretched the lead to 18 points multiple times, the Heat wouldn't go away. They out-scored Los Angeles 39-35 in the period -- but in the end they just didn't have sufficient stopping power and they couldn't get the deficit below nine points in the final quarter. "We need a little bit more from everybody, whatever that is," Olynyk said. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra acknowledged that the Heat face a tough challenge against the bigger, physical Lakers. "In those moments of truth when we had opportunities to get the game closer it usually seemed to end up in an offensive rebound or something near the basket," Spoelstra said. "But this is the deal. If you want something badly enough you'll figure out how to overcome it. "They have great size and Anthony Davis is an elite player. We're trying to get something accomplished and you just have to go to another level," added Spoelstra, whose team will try to do just that in game three on Sunday.

James, Davis, propel Lakers to second straight win over Heat

LeBron James, seeking a fourth NBA title in his 10th Finals appearance, has no trouble keeping his Los Angeles Lakers' dominant victory in game one of the 2020 title series in perspective.

The Lakers shook off a slow start to lead the Miami Heat by as many as 32 points on the way to a 116-98 victory in Orlando, Florida, but James insisted it was no time to celebrate.

"The best teacher in life is experience," James said. "I've experienced moments in my career where you have all the momentum in the world and you felt like you had the game under control, and one play here or one play there could change the course of a series or change the course of a game."

James is still rankled by the memory of game two of the 2011 NBA Finals, when he played alongside Dwyane Wade for the Heat against the Dallas Mavericks.

"D-Wade hits a three right by their bench," James recalled. "I believe it put us up either 13 or 17.

"From that moment on, Dallas went on a hell of a run and finished it off with a Dirk Nowitzki left-hand layup to steal that game.

"That burns me to this day," James said, adding that's why he was already looking forward to seeing where the Lakers can improve before game two against the Heat on Friday.

"I'm extremely amped up about watching the film with our ballclub tomorrow," he said. "I'm going to watch some tonight obviously by myself, but I'm looking forward to getting together as a group tomorrow."

While the championship series stage is nothing new to James -- or the 16-time champion Lakers franchise -- it's a first for star teammate Anthony Davis.

Davis scored 34 points in an impressive Finals debut, but he, too, said the Lakers should have started and finished the game better.

The underdog heat jumped to a 13-point lead midway through the first quarter. And even after injuries to Goran Dragic and Bam Adebayo they were able to narrow the final margin with a solid fourth-quarter performance.

"We have to be able to come out a little bit more aggressive and come out with a little more sense of urgency, and that's on the starters, especially me and Bron," Davis said. "But it feels good to get the first game.

"We're not satisfied. We don't like how we ended the game. That wasn't a championship mentality, and you know, we have to be better in that regard.

"We'll take the win, but we'll watch film and try to take advantage, as well."

LeBron James, seeking a fourth NBA title in his 10th Finals appearance, has no trouble keeping his Los Angeles Lakers' dominant victory in game one of the 2020 title series in perspective.

LeBron James, seeking a fourth NBA title in his 10th Finals appearance, has no trouble keeping his Los Angeles Lakers' dominant victory in game one of the 2020 title series in perspective. The Lakers shook off a slow start to lead the Miami Heat by as many as 32 points on the way to a 116-98 victory in Orlando, Florida, but James insisted it was no time to celebrate. "The best teacher in life is experience," James said. "I've experienced moments in my career where you have all the momentum in the world and you felt like you had the game under control, and one play here or one play there could change the course of a series or change the course of a game." James is still rankled by the memory of game two of the 2011 NBA Finals, when he played alongside Dwyane Wade for the Heat against the Dallas Mavericks. "D-Wade hits a three right by their bench," James recalled. "I believe it put us up either 13 or 17. "From that moment on, Dallas went on a hell of a run and finished it off with a Dirk Nowitzki left-hand layup to steal that game. "That burns me to this day," James said, adding that's why he was already looking forward to seeing where the Lakers can improve before game two against the Heat on Friday. "I'm extremely amped up about watching the film with our ballclub tomorrow," he said. "I'm going to watch some tonight obviously by myself, but I'm looking forward to getting together as a group tomorrow." While the championship series stage is nothing new to James -- or the 16-time champion Lakers franchise -- it's a first for star teammate Anthony Davis. Davis scored 34 points in an impressive Finals debut, but he, too, said the Lakers should have started and finished the game better. The underdog heat jumped to a 13-point lead midway through the first quarter. And even after injuries to Goran Dragic and Bam Adebayo they were able to narrow the final margin with a solid fourth-quarter performance. "We have to be able to come out a little bit more aggressive and come out with a little more sense of urgency, and that's on the starters, especially me and Bron," Davis said. "But it feels good to get the first game. "We're not satisfied. We don't like how we ended the game. That wasn't a championship mentality, and you know, we have to be better in that regard. "We'll take the win, but we'll watch film and try to take advantage, as well."

James keeps eye on ultimate prize as Lakers win NBA Finals opener

NBA legend Kobe Bryant's autograph on a hardwood section of the court is in for an online auction. Bryant played his last game in the court. According to predictions, the piece could fetch at least $500,000 next week.

NBA legend Kobe Bryant's autograph on a hardwood section of the court is in for an online auction. Bryant played his last game in the court. According to predictions, the piece could fetch at least $500,000 next week. The piece of hardwood measuring 4 feet by 8 feet is adorned with Bryant's iconic jersey number '8' during a sensational 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. It graced one end of the National Basketball Association court for the game on April 13, 2016, balancing a section with his other jersey number "24" at the other end. "This is really among the most unique and inspiring pieces we've ever had," said Dan Imler, vice president of direct sales and consignments for Heritage Auctions. "Most fans will remember that as one of, if not the, greatest farewell performance in the history of sports." "After the final piece of confetti had fallen, one of Kobe's absolute last acts before he walked off the professional court was to add a large signature to the center of the number 8," said Imler. "It's one of the biggest Kobe autographs we've ever seen. It's about a foot and a half long." In January, Bryant, along with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others, died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. "Certainly the market has escalated and, you know, as you can imagine, you know, all things Kobe were really kind of crystallized after his, his tragic passing and kind of took on a new depth and a new meaning, a new level of appreciation," Imler said. Buyers are asked to place their bids before October 3 to be eligible to raise the stakes on that day. 10 per cent of the selling amount (during the auction) will be donated to Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation, a non-profit that helps underserved communities through youth sports. The name refers to nicknames for Kobe and Gianna Bryant. (Inputs from Reuters)

Kobe Bryant autograph on last game court piece to be auctioned; expected to fetch $500,000

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