The&nbsp;NBA's inaugural in-season tournament breaks new ground again this week with stars including LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo gearing up for quarter-final clashes on Monday and Tuesday. Four-time&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;champion James has made no secret of the fact that he'd love to add a new accomplishment to his resume in his 21st season in the league.

His Los Angeles Lakers reached the quarter-finals as unbeaten group winners and will take on the wild card Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, when Antetokounmpo's Milwaukee Bucks host the wild card New York Knicks. On Monday, the Indiana Pacers host the Boston Celtics and the Sacramento Kings host the New Orleans Pelicans, all eight teams vying to reach the semi-finals in Las Vegas on December 7.

The title game is on December 9 in Vegas -- where the finalists will be competing for the first&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Cup and for the $500,000 in prize money per player on the winning team. "It will be a heavyweight match in LA," Suns guard Devin Booker said. "A lot on the line, winner goes to Vegas. So I think everyone is looking forward to it. It will be fun."

The Lakers have beaten the Suns twice this season, including in the group stage of the tournament. Suns star Kevin Durant is averaging 31 points per game, third best in the league. James, meanwhile, has dazzled as his 39th birthday approaches even as the Lakers coped with a string of injuries.

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"The most impressive thing is at what stage in his career he's doing it in," Lakers coach Darvin Ham said. "He's breaking barriers, it seems like, every day." Four of the league's top 10 scorers are in the quarter-finals -- Durant at No. 3, Sacramento's De'Aaron Fox at No. 4, Antetokounmpo at No. 5 and Boston's Jayson Tatum at No. 9. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton leads the league in assists, keying a high-octane offense that has the Pacers scoring 123.8 points per 100 possessions this season.

<h2>Loud and raucous</h2>

The Celtics blew out the Pacers 155-104 on November 1 in Boston. Haliburton missed that game, but Indiana coach Rick Carlisle admitted his team will have their work cut out to advance against a Celtics team that at 15-4 shares the best record in the league. "But we do get to play them at home. So, that's something important," Carlisle said. "We need our building to be as loud and raucous as it possibly can and we need to throw a game out there that's exceptional."

Like the Lakers, the Bucks advanced with a 4-0 record in group play, including a 110-105 win over the Knicks. "It would be pretty cool to be part of history," Bucks forward Khris Middleton said of potentially winning the first&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Cup. "You always want to be the first to win something. So, it would definitely be cool to win the first in-season tournament."

For Pelicans forward Zion Williamson, the tournament could be a springboard to playoff success. “For us, we haven’t won nothing,” Williamson said as the team looked toward their Monday clash with Sacramento. "I think that would be a starting step to try to go and win that."

The NBA's inaugural in-season tournament breaks new ground again this week with stars including LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo gearing up for quarter-final clashes on Monday and Tuesday.

The NBA's inaugural in-season tournament breaks new ground again this week with stars including LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo gearing up for quarter-final clashes on Monday and Tuesday. Four-time NBA champion James has made no secret of the fact that he'd love to add a new accomplishment to his resume in his 21st season in the league. His Los Angeles Lakers reached the quarter-finals as unbeaten group winners and will take on the wild card Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, when Antetokounmpo's Milwaukee Bucks host the wild card New York Knicks. On Monday, the Indiana Pacers host the Boston Celtics and the Sacramento Kings host the New Orleans Pelicans, all eight teams vying to reach the semi-finals in Las Vegas on December 7. The title game is on December 9 in Vegas -- where the finalists will be competing for the first NBA Cup and for the $500,000 in prize money per player on the winning team. "It will be a heavyweight match in LA," Suns guard Devin Booker said. "A lot on the line, winner goes to Vegas. So I think everyone is looking forward to it. It will be fun." The Lakers have beaten the Suns twice this season, including in the group stage of the tournament. Suns star Kevin Durant is averaging 31 points per game, third best in the league. James, meanwhile, has dazzled as his 39th birthday approaches even as the Lakers coped with a string of injuries. Also Read: Rugby: Beauden Barrett commits to another All Blacks World Cup cycle, coach Scott Robertson lauds playmaker "The most impressive thing is at what stage in his career he's doing it in," Lakers coach Darvin Ham said. "He's breaking barriers, it seems like, every day." Four of the league's top 10 scorers are in the quarter-finals -- Durant at No. 3, Sacramento's De'Aaron Fox at No. 4, Antetokounmpo at No. 5 and Boston's Jayson Tatum at No. 9. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton leads the league in assists, keying a high-octane offense that has the Pacers scoring 123.8 points per 100 possessions this season. Loud and raucous The Celtics blew out the Pacers 155-104 on November 1 in Boston. Haliburton missed that game, but Indiana coach Rick Carlisle admitted his team will have their work cut out to advance against a Celtics team that at 15-4 shares the best record in the league. "But we do get to play them at home. So, that's something important," Carlisle said. "We need our building to be as loud and raucous as it possibly can and we need to throw a game out there that's exceptional." Like the Lakers, the Bucks advanced with a 4-0 record in group play, including a 110-105 win over the Knicks. "It would be pretty cool to be part of history," Bucks forward Khris Middleton said of potentially winning the first NBA Cup. "You always want to be the first to win something. So, it would definitely be cool to win the first in-season tournament." For Pelicans forward Zion Williamson, the tournament could be a springboard to playoff success. “For us, we haven’t won nothing,” Williamson said as the team looked toward their Monday clash with Sacramento. "I think that would be a starting step to try to go and win that."

Las Vegas beckons as NBA’s inaugural in-season tournament enters knockouts

German forward Franz Wagner's 31-point performance sparked Orlando to an eighth consecutive victory on Wednesday, ripping Washington 139-120 to move one game behind NBA overall leader Boston. The Magic connected on 60.7% of their shots in improving to 13-5 and matching Milwaukee for second in the Eastern Conference behind the Celtics (14-4).

"We don't expect it but we believe we can win every day and we want to play up to our standards," Wagner said after achieving back-to-back 30-point games for the first time in his NBA career. "It's a lot of fun. We would like to keep that going."

Orlando can match the club's record win streak by beating the Wizards again on Friday. "It would be awesome," Wagner said. "But we've still got one to go so we've got to lock in on that."

Magic coach Jamahl Mosley agreed, saying: "I'm a 'one game at a time' guy. We'll enjoy this one but we've got to get to work tomorrow." Cole Anthony came off the bench to add 25 points and Jalen Suggs scored a season-high 22 points but forward Paolo Banchero, last season's NBA Rookie of the Year, suffered an ankle sprain and had only six points.

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The Philadelphia 76ers also could have reached 13-5 but, with NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid out due to illness, the Sixers lost 124-114 at New Orleans. Cameroonian 7-footer Embiid, the NBA's top scorer with 32.0 points a game, was dearly missed as Pelicans star forward Zion Williamson struck for 33 points, eight rebounds, six assists and three steals -- shooting 11-of-12 from the floor and the free throw line.

Pelicans guard C.J. McCollum scored 20 points in his return after missing more than three weeks with a collapsed lung and fractured rib. Tyrese Maxey scored 33 points for the 76ers in a losing cause.

The Phoenix Suns saw a seven-game win streak snapped while NBA-worst Detroit lost its 15th game in a row. Toronto got 23 points from Scottie Barnes and 22 from Pascal Siakam to beat visiting Phoenix 112-105.

Toronto led 108-105 when Devin Booker missed a tying 3-pointer with 50 seconds remaining. German Dennis Schroder hit a jumper for the Raptors and Kevin Durant -- who scored a game-high 30 points -- then missed a 3-pointer for Phoenix. Barnes added two final free throws to seal the Raptors' triumph.

At Detroit, D'Angelo Russell had game-highs of 35 points and nine assists to lead the Los Angeles Lakers over Detroit 133-107, dropping the Pistons to 2-16. Anthony Davis added 28 points and a game-high 16 rebounds for the Lakers while LeBron James, coming off the most lopsided loss of his 21-year career at Philadelphia on Monday, added 25 points and eight rebounds. In later games, defending NBA champion Denver played host to Houston and the Los Angeles Clippers were at Sacramento.

German forward Franz Wagner's 31-point performance sparked Orlando to an eighth consecutive victory on Wednesday, ripping Washington 139-120 to move one game behind NBA overall leader Boston.

German forward Franz Wagner's 31-point performance sparked Orlando to an eighth consecutive victory on Wednesday, ripping Washington 139-120 to move one game behind NBA overall leader Boston. The Magic connected on 60.7% of their shots in improving to 13-5 and matching Milwaukee for second in the Eastern Conference behind the Celtics (14-4). "We don't expect it but we believe we can win every day and we want to play up to our standards," Wagner said after achieving back-to-back 30-point games for the first time in his NBA career. "It's a lot of fun. We would like to keep that going." Orlando can match the club's record win streak by beating the Wizards again on Friday. "It would be awesome," Wagner said. "But we've still got one to go so we've got to lock in on that." Magic coach Jamahl Mosley agreed, saying: "I'm a 'one game at a time' guy. We'll enjoy this one but we've got to get to work tomorrow." Cole Anthony came off the bench to add 25 points and Jalen Suggs scored a season-high 22 points but forward Paolo Banchero, last season's NBA Rookie of the Year, suffered an ankle sprain and had only six points. Also Read: Manchester United on brink of another Champions League exit after Galatasaray fightback The Philadelphia 76ers also could have reached 13-5 but, with NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid out due to illness, the Sixers lost 124-114 at New Orleans. Cameroonian 7-footer Embiid, the NBA's top scorer with 32.0 points a game, was dearly missed as Pelicans star forward Zion Williamson struck for 33 points, eight rebounds, six assists and three steals -- shooting 11-of-12 from the floor and the free throw line. Pelicans guard C.J. McCollum scored 20 points in his return after missing more than three weeks with a collapsed lung and fractured rib. Tyrese Maxey scored 33 points for the 76ers in a losing cause. The Phoenix Suns saw a seven-game win streak snapped while NBA-worst Detroit lost its 15th game in a row. Toronto got 23 points from Scottie Barnes and 22 from Pascal Siakam to beat visiting Phoenix 112-105. Toronto led 108-105 when Devin Booker missed a tying 3-pointer with 50 seconds remaining. German Dennis Schroder hit a jumper for the Raptors and Kevin Durant -- who scored a game-high 30 points -- then missed a 3-pointer for Phoenix. Barnes added two final free throws to seal the Raptors' triumph. At Detroit, D'Angelo Russell had game-highs of 35 points and nine assists to lead the Los Angeles Lakers over Detroit 133-107, dropping the Pistons to 2-16. Anthony Davis added 28 points and a game-high 16 rebounds for the Lakers while LeBron James, coming off the most lopsided loss of his 21-year career at Philadelphia on Monday, added 25 points and eight rebounds. In later games, defending NBA champion Denver played host to Houston and the Los Angeles Clippers were at Sacramento.

NBA: Franz Wagner's 31 points help Orlando Magic beat Washington Wizards; register eighth consecutive win

The Indiana Pacers beat the Atlanta Hawks 157-152 in a rollicking NBA shootout on Tuesday to become the first team to reach the knockout stage of the league's new in-season tournament. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton, who said this week the new tournament gave "more juice" to early-season games, scored 22 of his 37 points in the third quarter as the Pacers erased a 20-point first-half deficit.

In the fourth quarter it was Buddy Hield who stepped up, scoring 13 of his 24 points as the Pacers came out on top of a furious back-and-forth finish. "It's good to clinch," Haliburton -- who also handed out 16 assists -- said after the Pacers improved to 3-0 in tournament play and locked up first place in East's Group A. "Buddy won us the game down the stretch, a lot of big buckets."

Hield's three-pointer put Indiana up 152-150 with 1:20 remaining. After Saddiq Bey pulled Atlanta level with a layup, Hield drained another three-pointer for a 155-152 Pacers lead with less than a minute to go. Hield capped the outrageous scoring with an alley-oop dunk with five-tenths of a second remaining.

Hield connected on nine of 11 from the field and made all six of his three-point attempts. Obi Toppin scored 21 points off the bench for Indiana and Bennedict Mathurin added 19. Trae Young scored 38 points to lead the Hawks, who led by 20 in the second quarter. In later games, the Los Angeles Lakers had a chance to punch their ticket to the knockout rounds, and claim home court advantage in the quarter-finals, with a victory over the Utah Jazz.

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A road win for the Jazz, coupled with a loss for Phoenix against Portland, would see Utah advance. The quarter-finals will be played December 4-5, with winners advancing to semi-final games on December 7 and a championship match on December 9 in Las Vegas.

It was a tight finish in Philadelphia, where Darius Garland scored 32 points to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 122-119 overtime victory over the 76ers that kept alive the Cavs' hopes of advancing in the tournament via a wild card berth. Jarrett Allen scored 26 points and pulled down 13 rebounds while Max Strus made five three-pointers on the way to 20 points for the Cavs, who came through despite again playing without injured Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid scored 32 points and grabbed 13 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey added 30 points for Philadelphia, but the 76ers were eliminated from tournament contention.

The Indiana Pacers beat the Atlanta Hawks 157-152 in a rollicking NBA shootout on Tuesday to become the first team to reach the knockout stage of the league's new in-season tournament.

The Indiana Pacers beat the Atlanta Hawks 157-152 in a rollicking NBA shootout on Tuesday to become the first team to reach the knockout stage of the league's new in-season tournament. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton, who said this week the new tournament gave "more juice" to early-season games, scored 22 of his 37 points in the third quarter as the Pacers erased a 20-point first-half deficit. In the fourth quarter it was Buddy Hield who stepped up, scoring 13 of his 24 points as the Pacers came out on top of a furious back-and-forth finish. "It's good to clinch," Haliburton -- who also handed out 16 assists -- said after the Pacers improved to 3-0 in tournament play and locked up first place in East's Group A. "Buddy won us the game down the stretch, a lot of big buckets." Hield's three-pointer put Indiana up 152-150 with 1:20 remaining. After Saddiq Bey pulled Atlanta level with a layup, Hield drained another three-pointer for a 155-152 Pacers lead with less than a minute to go. Hield capped the outrageous scoring with an alley-oop dunk with five-tenths of a second remaining. Hield connected on nine of 11 from the field and made all six of his three-point attempts. Obi Toppin scored 21 points off the bench for Indiana and Bennedict Mathurin added 19. Trae Young scored 38 points to lead the Hawks, who led by 20 in the second quarter. In later games, the Los Angeles Lakers had a chance to punch their ticket to the knockout rounds, and claim home court advantage in the quarter-finals, with a victory over the Utah Jazz. Also Read: WATCH | LeBron 360 layup in Lakers vs Rockets sends internet in frenzy A road win for the Jazz, coupled with a loss for Phoenix against Portland, would see Utah advance. The quarter-finals will be played December 4-5, with winners advancing to semi-final games on December 7 and a championship match on December 9 in Las Vegas. It was a tight finish in Philadelphia, where Darius Garland scored 32 points to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 122-119 overtime victory over the 76ers that kept alive the Cavs' hopes of advancing in the tournament via a wild card berth. Jarrett Allen scored 26 points and pulled down 13 rebounds while Max Strus made five three-pointers on the way to 20 points for the Cavs, who came through despite again playing without injured Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert. Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid scored 32 points and grabbed 13 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey added 30 points for Philadelphia, but the 76ers were eliminated from tournament contention.

Indiana Pacers defeat Atlanta Hawks, become first team to reach knockout stage of NBA's new tournament

Houston Rockets swingman Dillon Brooks was fined $25,000 by the NBA on Thursday for striking Indiana Pacers center Daniel Theis in the groin in a home pre-season victory on Tuesday.&nbsp;The league said Brooks "recklessly making contact" with Theis with his left hand while moving around a pick in the first quarter, a blow that left Germany's Theis doubled over.

Brooks was assessed a flagrant foul 2 on the play and ejected with 4:33 elapsed in the first period of Houston's 122-103 triumph over the Pacers. Brooks, who led the NBA in technical fouls last season, said after the game he felt "picked on" by referees over his reputation, the 27-year-old Canadian calling himself "Dillon the Villain" over previous misdeeds.

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In last season's playoffs, Brooks -- then playing for Memphis -- landed a left hand to the groin of LeBron James while the Los Angeles Lakers star was dribbling the ball only 17 seconds into the third quarter of game three, sending the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player to the court in pain and earning an ejection for a flagrant foul 2.

Memphis lost to the Lakers in six games and Brooks, who had ripped James for being "old" at 38, was traded from the Grizzlies to Houston last July.

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Houston Rockets swingman Dillon Brooks was fined $25,000 by the NBA on Thursday for striking Indiana Pacers center Daniel Theis in the groin in a home pre-season victory on Tuesday.

Houston Rockets swingman Dillon Brooks was fined $25,000 by the NBA on Thursday for striking Indiana Pacers center Daniel Theis in the groin in a home pre-season victory on Tuesday. The league said Brooks "recklessly making contact" with Theis with his left hand while moving around a pick in the first quarter, a blow that left Germany's Theis doubled over. Brooks was assessed a flagrant foul 2 on the play and ejected with 4:33 elapsed in the first period of Houston's 122-103 triumph over the Pacers. Brooks, who led the NBA in technical fouls last season, said after the game he felt "picked on" by referees over his reputation, the 27-year-old Canadian calling himself "Dillon the Villain" over previous misdeeds. Also Read: Chief selector George Bailey hits back at Johnson for ‘uncomfortable remarks’ against David Warner In last season's playoffs, Brooks -- then playing for Memphis -- landed a left hand to the groin of LeBron James while the Los Angeles Lakers star was dribbling the ball only 17 seconds into the third quarter of game three, sending the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player to the court in pain and earning an ejection for a flagrant foul 2. Memphis lost to the Lakers in six games and Brooks, who had ripped James for being "old" at 38, was traded from the Grizzlies to Houston last July. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Houston Rockets swingman Dillon Brooks fined $25,000

Dallas Mavericks created NBA history on Saturday (Dec. 2) in the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder with their 30-0 run in the fourth quarter. The previous best run for an NBA team without allowing a point was 29-0, made by the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Milwaukee Bucks on December 6, 2009.

The other best runs by an NBA team are: 28-0 by the Mavericks against the Golden State Warriors in 2021 and 28-0 by the New York Knicks against the Toronto Raptors in 2017. The Saturday run by the Mavs, however, is the only one among top four to end up on the losing side.

The run started in the fourth quarter with 11:09 left on the clock and went until the clock displayed 4:18. During the play, Dallas not only erased their 24-point deficit but took a six-point lead as well. The Mavericks went from 111-87 to 117-111 as the Thunder stared at a loss.

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The Mavs just went on a 30-0 run to take the lead in Dallas 😱 
 
Thunder-Mavericks | Live on the NBA App 
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— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1731167863950446754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Oklahoma, however, decided not to let the Mavs run riot and bounced back emphatically. Dallas were leading 120-118 before the Thunder scored final eight points of the game to snatch a 126-120 win.

Mavericks coach Jason Kidd was still full of praise for his team and said: "Yeah, I think when you look at the character of team, [it] was on display there. For the whole game, just understanding with Luka [Doncic], they're going to take the ball out of his hands, I thought the guys did a great job there at the end of the third and the fourth to take rhythm shots."

The loss was Dallas second consecutive and eighth overall this season. The currently are sixth on the Western Conference table with 11-8 record. Thunder, on the other hand, are second in the same conference with 13-6 (win-loss) record.

Dallas Mavericks created NBA history on Saturday (Dec. 2) in the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder with their 30-0 run in the fourth quarter. The previous best run for an NBA team without allowing a point was 29-0, made by the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Milwaukee Bucks on December 6, 2009.

Dallas Mavericks created NBA history on Saturday (Dec. 2) in the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder with their 30-0 run in the fourth quarter. The previous best run for an NBA team without allowing a point was 29-0, made by the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Milwaukee Bucks on December 6, 2009. The other best runs by an NBA team are: 28-0 by the Mavericks against the Golden State Warriors in 2021 and 28-0 by the New York Knicks against the Toronto Raptors in 2017. The Saturday run by the Mavs, however, is the only one among top four to end up on the losing side. The run started in the fourth quarter with 11:09 left on the clock and went until the clock displayed 4:18. During the play, Dallas not only erased their 24-point deficit but took a six-point lead as well. The Mavericks went from 111-87 to 117-111 as the Thunder stared at a loss. The Mavs just went on a 30-0 run to take the lead in Dallas 😱 Thunder-Mavericks | Live on the NBA App 📲: https://t.co/yLKLHQXVnp pic.twitter.com/WgcAKmEaW9 — NBA (@NBA) December 3, 2023 × Also Watch: LeBron 360 layup in Lakers vs Rockets sends internet in frenzy Oklahoma, however, decided not to let the Mavs run riot and bounced back emphatically. Dallas were leading 120-118 before the Thunder scored final eight points of the game to snatch a 126-120 win. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd was still full of praise for his team and said: "Yeah, I think when you look at the character of team, [it] was on display there. For the whole game, just understanding with Luka [Doncic], they're going to take the ball out of his hands, I thought the guys did a great job there at the end of the third and the fourth to take rhythm shots." The loss was Dallas second consecutive and eighth overall this season. The currently are sixth on the Western Conference table with 11-8 record. Thunder, on the other hand, are second in the same conference with 13-6 (win-loss) record.

WATCH | Dallas Mavericks go 30-0 vs Oklahoma City Thunder to create history; still end up losing

Milwaukee&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;superstar Giannis&nbsp;Antetokounmpo&nbsp;has agreed to a three-year contract&nbsp;extension&nbsp;worth $186 million, multiple US media&nbsp;reports&nbsp;said on Monday (Oct 23). Antetokounmpo's&nbsp;new deal will see him remain with the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;until at least the end of the 2026-2027 season.

Antetokounmpo's new deal gives him an option to remain with the club in the 2027-2028 campaign, but he can enter free agency in July 2027, at the age of 32. Antetokounmpo&nbsp;confirmed his contract&nbsp;extension&nbsp;in a post on social media without giving details of the new deal.

"MILWAUKEEEEEEEEE!! Let's get it!!!!...#Extended,"&nbsp;Antetokounmpo&nbsp;wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

The Greek&nbsp;star&nbsp;has spent the entirety of his NBA career with Milwaukee since being drafted by the franchise in 2013 as the 15th overall pick. The 28-year-old is regarded as one of the best players in basketball, guiding the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;to the NBA Finals in 2021.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.reutersconnect.com/all?id=tag%3Areuters.com%2C2023%3Anewsml_KBN31J04S%3A4&amp;search=all%3Abasketball%20game">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-everton-submits-appeal-against-punishment-over-ffp-rules-breach-665161">Premier League: Everton submits appeal against punishment over FFP rules breach</a>

As recently as the&nbsp;Bucks' preseason media day earlier this month,&nbsp;Antetokounmpo&nbsp;said he was in no hurry to sign a contract&nbsp;extension&nbsp;before 2024, noting that he wanted to be certain the franchise remained committed to going for titles.

"I want to be a Milwaukee Buck for the rest of my career -- as long as we are winning. It's as simple as that,"&nbsp;Antetokounmpo&nbsp;said on October 2.

His decision to extend now is effectively a vote of confidence in the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;front office, which scored the biggest deal of the offseason after successfully trading for Portland&nbsp;star&nbsp;Damian Lillard in September. Antetokounmpo's new deal runs through the duration of Lillard's contract with the club.

The&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;open their 2023-2024 season on Thursday when they host the Philadelphia 76ers.

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Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $186 million, multiple US media reports said on Monday (Oct 23).

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $186 million, multiple US media reports said on Monday (Oct 23). Antetokounmpo's new deal will see him remain with the Bucks until at least the end of the 2026-2027 season. Antetokounmpo's new deal gives him an option to remain with the club in the 2027-2028 campaign, but he can enter free agency in July 2027, at the age of 32. Antetokounmpo confirmed his contract extension in a post on social media without giving details of the new deal. "MILWAUKEEEEEEEEE!! Let's get it!!!!...#Extended," Antetokounmpo wrote on X, formerly Twitter. The Greek star has spent the entirety of his NBA career with Milwaukee since being drafted by the franchise in 2013 as the 15th overall pick. The 28-year-old is regarded as one of the best players in basketball, guiding the Bucks to the NBA Finals in 2021. Also Read: Premier League: Everton submits appeal against punishment over FFP rules breach As recently as the Bucks' preseason media day earlier this month, Antetokounmpo said he was in no hurry to sign a contract extension before 2024, noting that he wanted to be certain the franchise remained committed to going for titles. "I want to be a Milwaukee Buck for the rest of my career -- as long as we are winning. It's as simple as that," Antetokounmpo said on October 2. His decision to extend now is effectively a vote of confidence in the Bucks front office, which scored the biggest deal of the offseason after successfully trading for Portland star Damian Lillard in September. Antetokounmpo's new deal runs through the duration of Lillard's contract with the club. The Bucks open their 2023-2024 season on Thursday when they host the Philadelphia 76ers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Giannis Antetokounmpo agrees to three-year extension with Milwaukee Bucks

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks.

The talented 19-year-old is widely regarded as a once-in-a-generation player, tipped to have the same kind of impact on the NBA that LeBron James had when he landed in the league 20 years ago.

The sprawling Texas metropolis of San Antonio has quickly embraced Wembanyama, with murals devoted to the rising star popping up across the city since his selection in the NBA Draft in June. San Antonio sandwich shops have named snacks after the teenager, while one mariachi band in the city has even dedicated a song to Wembanyama.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/nba/news-nba-sore-hip-sidelines-san-antonios-victor-wembanyama-for-first-time-in-career-665303">NBA: Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career</a>

More than 13,000 fans turned up to a Spurs pre-season practice to watch him while NBA executives say the Frenchman has attracted 95 million views across the league's social media channels during the offseason -- more than any other player in the league. Wembanyama has taken the soaring hype in his stride, showing no sign of stage fright in a series of sparkling pre-season performances for San Antonio.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday on the eve of his debut, the 7ft 4in (2.25m) tall teenager acknowledged some nervous excitement as his personal D-Day approached.

<h2>Lifelong dream</h2>

"Some butterflies in my stomach, like I have before every match, depending on what's at stake," Wembanyama said.&nbsp; "But it's not like I'm shaking either -- just a little stomach ache."

Wembanyama's debut will be the realization of a lifelong dream for the Frenchman, who said he had been thinking about playing in the NBA for "as long as I have memories." While pre-season had given him a taste of what to expect in the NBA, Wembanyama said making his regular season start still felt "unreal."

"I thought a month ago that some pre-season games would prepare me for this moment, but it's totally different," said Wembanyama, who has set himself a goal of winning "as many titles as I can" with San Antonio.&nbsp;"I know it's something you don't easily do, most players have a career and never make it to the finals, or win championships," Wembanyama said.&nbsp;

"It's one of my biggest goals in life so I know I'm gonna reach this, one day or the other. I'm dedicating the next I don't know how many years of my life to reach this. I'm ready to sacrifice anything." Wembanyama&nbsp;averaged just over 19 points a game in four pre-season appearances for San Antonio, but believes he still has not demonstrated the full range of his skills.

"I know nobody has seen my best so far," he said.&nbsp; Wembanyama revealed he had been on a steep learning curve since starting training with San Antonio, receiving insights to play at both ends of the court.&nbsp;

"In defense I've been in a role that I never had before. I love learning," he said. "I'm really excited, it's promising. We've learned quicker than I expected. Possibilities in defense are endless with this team." Wembanyama's growing legion of admirers includes Mavericks star Luka Doncic, who will go head-to-head with the teenager on Wednesday.

"It's pretty crazy what he does on the court," Doncic said of Wembanyama on Tuesday. "What is he? Two meters (tall)? The things he does for that length, it's unbelievable.&nbsp;"The way he moves, the way he handles the ball, shoots the ball, and obviously the blocking. So, I've been watching, and he's an amazing player."

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks.

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks. The talented 19-year-old is widely regarded as a once-in-a-generation player, tipped to have the same kind of impact on the NBA that LeBron James had when he landed in the league 20 years ago. The sprawling Texas metropolis of San Antonio has quickly embraced Wembanyama, with murals devoted to the rising star popping up across the city since his selection in the NBA Draft in June. San Antonio sandwich shops have named snacks after the teenager, while one mariachi band in the city has even dedicated a song to Wembanyama. Also Read: NBA: Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career More than 13,000 fans turned up to a Spurs pre-season practice to watch him while NBA executives say the Frenchman has attracted 95 million views across the league's social media channels during the offseason -- more than any other player in the league. Wembanyama has taken the soaring hype in his stride, showing no sign of stage fright in a series of sparkling pre-season performances for San Antonio. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday on the eve of his debut, the 7ft 4in (2.25m) tall teenager acknowledged some nervous excitement as his personal D-Day approached. Lifelong dream "Some butterflies in my stomach, like I have before every match, depending on what's at stake," Wembanyama said. "But it's not like I'm shaking either -- just a little stomach ache." Wembanyama's debut will be the realization of a lifelong dream for the Frenchman, who said he had been thinking about playing in the NBA for "as long as I have memories." While pre-season had given him a taste of what to expect in the NBA, Wembanyama said making his regular season start still felt "unreal." "I thought a month ago that some pre-season games would prepare me for this moment, but it's totally different," said Wembanyama, who has set himself a goal of winning "as many titles as I can" with San Antonio. "I know it's something you don't easily do, most players have a career and never make it to the finals, or win championships," Wembanyama said. "It's one of my biggest goals in life so I know I'm gonna reach this, one day or the other. I'm dedicating the next I don't know how many years of my life to reach this. I'm ready to sacrifice anything." Wembanyama averaged just over 19 points a game in four pre-season appearances for San Antonio, but believes he still has not demonstrated the full range of his skills. "I know nobody has seen my best so far," he said. Wembanyama revealed he had been on a steep learning curve since starting training with San Antonio, receiving insights to play at both ends of the court. "In defense I've been in a role that I never had before. I love learning," he said. "I'm really excited, it's promising. We've learned quicker than I expected. Possibilities in defense are endless with this team." Wembanyama's growing legion of admirers includes Mavericks star Luka Doncic, who will go head-to-head with the teenager on Wednesday. "It's pretty crazy what he does on the court," Doncic said of Wembanyama on Tuesday. "What is he? Two meters (tall)? The things he does for that length, it's unbelievable. "The way he moves, the way he handles the ball, shoots the ball, and obviously the blocking. So, I've been watching, and he's an amazing player."

NBA: French sensation Victor Wembanyama admits having butterflies ahead of San Antonio Spurs debut

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and China may have encountered turbulence in their relations over the years but retired great Yao Ming told Reuters the league is still "first class" in his home country. Yao, the chairman of the Chinese Basketball Association, soared to stardom in the United States as the eight-time All-Star for the Houston Rockets, an affable, 7-foot, 6-inch NBA big man who dominated the league before retiring in 2011.

Yao propelled the league's popularity in his home country but relations between China and the NBA have not always been smooth. Chinese broadcasters stopped airing Rockets games in 2019 after general manager Daryl Morey posted a message in support of anti-government protests in Hong Kong and, earlier this year, former NBA player Dwight Howard appeared in a promotional video in which he referred to Taiwan as a country, prompting backlash.

"I have to say, the NBA is in the first class...(because) you know the players being exposed in China for so long," Yao said when asked about the past issues between China and the NBA. "The players, the teams (are) all still very well welcome in China and (we had) a couple of players with (in) China just this past summer."

Yao travelled to New York this week for the first time in nearly four years as part of a roughly 30-person Chinese delegation and met with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver at a time when international participation in the league is at an all-time high.

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"Everything looks (like it is) running very, very well (under) his management," he said of Silver, who took the reins in 2014.

Separately, Yao said France's Victor Wembanyama possesses a talent that defies comparison, as the seven-foot, four-inch rookie makes his highly anticipated NBA regular-season debut on Wednesday.

Not since LeBron James 20 years ago has a prospect generated excitement on the level seen for the San Antonio Spurs' first overall pick, who will kick off at home against Texan rivals Dallas Mavericks after a remarkable preseason. "I never see a big guy like, you know, (who) can do such a thing like he does," said Yao, an eight-times NBA All-Star who stands two inches taller than Wembanyama.

"In a scout report where we say 'This guy is - how old he is, you know, his height, his wingspan and his capabilities'... and 'He looks like, let's say, a former somebody', you know. For him, it's like, I don't know who shall I put up... no comparing."

The Hall of Famer was reluctant to offer advice to the Frenchman Wembanyama, who enters the NBA at a time of unprecedented international participation in the league. "He has his own expedition to go (on)," said Yao, who was travelling to New York as part of a some 30-person Chinese delegation this week.

"And my experience probably from 20 years ago, I'm not sure is still fit for today. So I just wish him all good luck."

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and China may have encountered turbulence in their relations over the years but retired great Yao Ming told Reuters the league is still "first class" in his home country.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and China may have encountered turbulence in their relations over the years but retired great Yao Ming told Reuters the league is still "first class" in his home country. Yao, the chairman of the Chinese Basketball Association, soared to stardom in the United States as the eight-time All-Star for the Houston Rockets, an affable, 7-foot, 6-inch NBA big man who dominated the league before retiring in 2011. Yao propelled the league's popularity in his home country but relations between China and the NBA have not always been smooth. Chinese broadcasters stopped airing Rockets games in 2019 after general manager Daryl Morey posted a message in support of anti-government protests in Hong Kong and, earlier this year, former NBA player Dwight Howard appeared in a promotional video in which he referred to Taiwan as a country, prompting backlash. "I have to say, the NBA is in the first class...(because) you know the players being exposed in China for so long," Yao said when asked about the past issues between China and the NBA. "The players, the teams (are) all still very well welcome in China and (we had) a couple of players with (in) China just this past summer." Yao travelled to New York this week for the first time in nearly four years as part of a roughly 30-person Chinese delegation and met with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver at a time when international participation in the league is at an all-time high. Also Read: Serie A: Juventus go top after dramatic 2-1 win at Monza; Federico Gatti scores 94th minute winner "Everything looks (like it is) running very, very well (under) his management," he said of Silver, who took the reins in 2014. Separately, Yao said France's Victor Wembanyama possesses a talent that defies comparison, as the seven-foot, four-inch rookie makes his highly anticipated NBA regular-season debut on Wednesday. Not since LeBron James 20 years ago has a prospect generated excitement on the level seen for the San Antonio Spurs' first overall pick, who will kick off at home against Texan rivals Dallas Mavericks after a remarkable preseason. "I never see a big guy like, you know, (who) can do such a thing like he does," said Yao, an eight-times NBA All-Star who stands two inches taller than Wembanyama. "In a scout report where we say 'This guy is - how old he is, you know, his height, his wingspan and his capabilities'... and 'He looks like, let's say, a former somebody', you know. For him, it's like, I don't know who shall I put up... no comparing." The Hall of Famer was reluctant to offer advice to the Frenchman Wembanyama, who enters the NBA at a time of unprecedented international participation in the league. "He has his own expedition to go (on)," said Yao, who was travelling to New York as part of a some 30-person Chinese delegation this week. "And my experience probably from 20 years ago, I'm not sure is still fit for today. So I just wish him all good luck."

Basketball: NBA remains 'first class' in China despite recent turbulences, says Yao Ming

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant is now 10th on the list of most points scored in NBA history, going past Moses Malone for the same. Durant now has 27,423 points in 17 NBA seasons while Malone had 27,409 after playing first two years for ABA. Durant needed 17 points to go past Malone and scored 30 points but the efforts wasn't enough for his team to beat Denver Nuggets which went on to win the game 119-111 on December 1. &nbsp;

Talking about the achievement, Durant said: "It's a long journey to be up there, mentioned with the greats. It takes a lot of work, a lot of preparation, a lot of people helping me get to this point."

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-watch--celtics-forward-jayson-tatum-ejected-during-game-vs-76ers-for-showdown-with-officials-665432">Celtics forward Jayson Tatum ejected during game vs 76ers for showdown with officials&nbsp;</a>

He also praised Malone for his contribution to the game and added: "As a basketball player, I think it's our job to go back and know the history of the game and who paved the way for us."

Durant is the only active player among top 25 players on the most points scored list with Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James being the other one. LeBron leads the list with 39,124 points. The LA Lakers star also congratulated Durant with a post on his official X handle. Look at the post below:&nbsp;

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TOP 10!!!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/KDTrey5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KDTrey5</a> CONGRATS 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
— LeBron James (@KingJames) <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames/status/1730804521910382683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Other players among the top 10 are: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,397), Karl Malone (36,928), Kobe Bryant (33,643), Michael Jordan (32,292), Dirk Nowitzki (31,560), Wilt Chamberlain (31,419), Shaquille O'Neal (28,596) and Carmelo Anthony (28,289).

Durant has played for five different NBA teams including now-defunct Seattle SuperSonics which picked him as no. 2 overall in 2007 NBA draft. He then went on to play for the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015 before joining the Golden State Warriors for four years from 2016-19.

It was with the Warriors that Durant went on to win his two NBA championships (2017 and 2018). After being sidelined for 2019-20 season due to injury, Durant joined the Brooklyn Nets from 2020-22. He, however, left the Nets mid-season in 2022-23 season to join the Suns.

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant is now 10th on the list of most points scored in NBA history, going past Moses Malone for the same. Durant now has 27,423 points in 17 NBA seasons while Malone had 27,409 after playing first two years for ABA.

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant is now 10th on the list of most points scored in NBA history, going past Moses Malone for the same. Durant now has 27,423 points in 17 NBA seasons while Malone had 27,409 after playing first two years for ABA. Durant needed 17 points to go past Malone and scored 30 points but the efforts wasn't enough for his team to beat Denver Nuggets which went on to win the game 119-111 on December 1. Talking about the achievement, Durant said: "It's a long journey to be up there, mentioned with the greats. It takes a lot of work, a lot of preparation, a lot of people helping me get to this point." Also Watch: Celtics forward Jayson Tatum ejected during game vs 76ers for showdown with officials He also praised Malone for his contribution to the game and added: "As a basketball player, I think it's our job to go back and know the history of the game and who paved the way for us." Durant is the only active player among top 25 players on the most points scored list with Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James being the other one. LeBron leads the list with 39,124 points. The LA Lakers star also congratulated Durant with a post on his official X handle. Look at the post below: TOP 10!!!!! @KDTrey5 CONGRATS 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 — LeBron James (@KingJames) December 2, 2023 × Other players among the top 10 are: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,397), Karl Malone (36,928), Kobe Bryant (33,643), Michael Jordan (32,292), Dirk Nowitzki (31,560), Wilt Chamberlain (31,419), Shaquille O'Neal (28,596) and Carmelo Anthony (28,289). Durant has played for five different NBA teams including now-defunct Seattle SuperSonics which picked him as no. 2 overall in 2007 NBA draft. He then went on to play for the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015 before joining the Golden State Warriors for four years from 2016-19. It was with the Warriors that Durant went on to win his two NBA championships (2017 and 2018). After being sidelined for 2019-20 season due to injury, Durant joined the Brooklyn Nets from 2020-22. He, however, left the Nets mid-season in 2022-23 season to join the Suns.

Phoenix Suns' Kevin Durant goes past Moses Malone to become 10th all-time point scorer, LeBron James reacts

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum was ejected vs the Philadelphia Eagles on December 1 for staring down the officials. The incident happened in the third quarter with just about 10 seconds left on the clock when Tatum argued and gave looks to officials during a foul review against him.

Boston were leading the game 95-94 when Tatum brought the ball up in the halfcourt but was quickly surrounded by Sixers' &nbsp;De’Anthony Melton and Robert Covington. Tatum, trying to take a shot, inadvertently hit Covington in the face and the officials called for an offensive foul. Tatum was ejected for having a showdown with the officials while the foul was being reviewed. Have a look at the video below:

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Jayson Tatum ejected vs. Sixers <a href="https://t.co/1XdMBmJ8uA">pic.twitter.com/1XdMBmJ8uA</a>
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSCeltics/status/1730776198505009591?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Celtics, nonetheless, went on to win the game 125-119, in what was a possible preview for the Eastern Conference Championship. The Sixers were without their ace player Joel Embiid as well as Tyrese Maxey but they still managed to give a good fight at the TD Garden in Boston.

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Talking about the game, Boston had a monstrous first quarter, scoring 44 points and taking an eight-point lead over the Sixers. Philadelphia bounced back in the second quarter with another 36 points while Boston managed just 25. At the halftime, the Sixers were in lead by three points.

Come third quarter, the game went neck-to-neck with the Celtics scoring 26 while the Sixers managed 25 and led the game by two points. In the final quarter though, Boston rallied to score 30 points and stopped the 76ers at 22 to not only erase the two-point deficit but gain six-point game-winning advantage as well.

In individual performances, Tatum topped for the Celtics with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Derrick White too scored 21 points for Boston along with 6 rebounds and 5 assists. For the Sixers, Patrick Beverley scored 26 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists.

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum was ejected vs the Philadelphia Eagles on December 1 for staring down the officials. The incident happened in the third quarter with just about 10 seconds left on the clock when Tatum argued and gave looks to officials during a foul review against him.

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum was ejected vs the Philadelphia Eagles on December 1 for staring down the officials. The incident happened in the third quarter with just about 10 seconds left on the clock when Tatum argued and gave looks to officials during a foul review against him. Boston were leading the game 95-94 when Tatum brought the ball up in the halfcourt but was quickly surrounded by Sixers' De’Anthony Melton and Robert Covington. Tatum, trying to take a shot, inadvertently hit Covington in the face and the officials called for an offensive foul. Tatum was ejected for having a showdown with the officials while the foul was being reviewed. Have a look at the video below: Jayson Tatum ejected vs. Sixers pic.twitter.com/1XdMBmJ8uA — Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) December 2, 2023 × The Celtics, nonetheless, went on to win the game 125-119, in what was a possible preview for the Eastern Conference Championship. The Sixers were without their ace player Joel Embiid as well as Tyrese Maxey but they still managed to give a good fight at the TD Garden in Boston. Also Watch: Fans taunt Ronaldo with Messi chants after Al Nassr's loss vs Al Hilal in Riyadh derby Talking about the game, Boston had a monstrous first quarter, scoring 44 points and taking an eight-point lead over the Sixers. Philadelphia bounced back in the second quarter with another 36 points while Boston managed just 25. At the halftime, the Sixers were in lead by three points. Come third quarter, the game went neck-to-neck with the Celtics scoring 26 while the Sixers managed 25 and led the game by two points. In the final quarter though, Boston rallied to score 30 points and stopped the 76ers at 22 to not only erase the two-point deficit but gain six-point game-winning advantage as well. In individual performances, Tatum topped for the Celtics with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Derrick White too scored 21 points for Boston along with 6 rebounds and 5 assists. For the Sixers, Patrick Beverley scored 26 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists.

WATCH | Celtics forward Jayson Tatum ejected during game vs 76ers for showdown with officials

San Antonio rookie Victor Wembanyama was sidelined for the first time in his NBA career on Friday as the Spurs ruled him out against the New Orleans Pelicans with a sore right hip.

Wembanyama played through the problem on Thursday, scoring 21 points with 12 rebounds and four blocked shots in the Spurs' 137-135 loss to the Atlanta Hawks -- San Antonio's 13th straight defeat.

The towering French teen downplayed the injury after the game, but said he considered it a "day to day" decision as to whether he would play.

"My body in general feels as good as we can expect this many games into the season," said Wembanyama, the number one draft pick who said he's still learning to manage his fitness during the rigors of an NBA campaign.

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"Once the season starts, that's what I've learned, it's more maintaining," he said. "Every day we mustn't miss meals, must sleep as much as we can."

Spurs medical staff have been monitoring the tightness in his hip, and coach Gregg Popovich had indicated after Thursday's game that a day off for Wembanyama could be on the cards.

"We're trying to protect him," Popovich said. "We'll see how his hip came out of this one."

In 18 games, Wembanyama is averaging 19.3 points and 9.7 rebounds, the most among all rookies. His average of 2.7 blocks per game leads the league.

San Antonio rookie Victor Wembanyama was sidelined for the first time in his NBA career on Friday as the Spurs ruled him out against the New Orleans Pelicans with a sore right hip.

San Antonio rookie Victor Wembanyama was sidelined for the first time in his NBA career on Friday as the Spurs ruled him out against the New Orleans Pelicans with a sore right hip. Wembanyama played through the problem on Thursday, scoring 21 points with 12 rebounds and four blocked shots in the Spurs' 137-135 loss to the Atlanta Hawks -- San Antonio's 13th straight defeat. The towering French teen downplayed the injury after the game, but said he considered it a "day to day" decision as to whether he would play. "My body in general feels as good as we can expect this many games into the season," said Wembanyama, the number one draft pick who said he's still learning to manage his fitness during the rigors of an NBA campaign. ALSO READ | 'It's insane': Ramiz Raja slams PCB for 'tainted' Salman Butt's appointment "Once the season starts, that's what I've learned, it's more maintaining," he said. "Every day we mustn't miss meals, must sleep as much as we can." Spurs medical staff have been monitoring the tightness in his hip, and coach Gregg Popovich had indicated after Thursday's game that a day off for Wembanyama could be on the cards. "We're trying to protect him," Popovich said. "We'll see how his hip came out of this one." In 18 games, Wembanyama is averaging 19.3 points and 9.7 rebounds, the most among all rookies. His average of 2.7 blocks per game leads the league.

Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career

Victor&nbsp;Wembanyama, this year's number one draft pick in the NBA, shined again with an eye-catching 23-point performance in his second pre-season outing for the San Antonio Spurs. Frenchman&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;led the Spurs to a 120-104 home win over a second-string Miami Heat, with the 19-year-old also adding four rebounds, four assists and three blocks in just under 23 minutes on court.

The 7ft 3in&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;brought the Frost Bank Center crowd to their feet with a furious dunk in the second quarter, and was 10-of-15 shooting. He produced a series of spectacular plays, both offensively and defensively, with the most eye-catching a remarkable left-handed dunk from outside of the restricted area in the third quarter.

"I'm still learning to do some things defensively, defending the pin downs, for example," he said. "I'm really learning a lot, and I'm trying to expand my tools on defense, too," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/nba/news-watch--celtics-forward-jayson-tatum-ejected-during-game-vs-76ers-for-showdown-with-officials-665432">WATCH | Celtics forward Jayson Tatum ejected during game vs 76ers for showdown with officials</a>

Wembanyama&nbsp;said that he felt that both he and the team were developing an understanding with each other. "I think we're on the right path. We've still got a lot to learn about ourselves and also about our teammates but we are on the right path," he said. "Personally, I'm trying to apply what the coach says. I'm learning a lot, lots of new stuff, and I think it's all going down to our individual sacrifices," he added.

Rated as one of the most exciting talents to enter the league in years,&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said he has been impressed with how quickly his team-mates have adjusted to his range of skills, well beyond the norm for such a tall player.

"For most of my short career so far, my teammates have had to learn to play with me because sometimes I know they are surprised to see me do some stuff," he said.

"But the surprise coming here is I play in the best league in the world now, and the guys just learn quicker. I feel like we've already got a connection, all of us, and I'm really thankful for that," he said.

San Antonio's opening match of the regular season is at home on October 25 against Dallas.

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Victor Wembanyama, this year's number one draft pick in the NBA, shined again with an eye-catching 23-point performance in his second pre-season outing for the San Antonio Spurs.

Victor Wembanyama, this year's number one draft pick in the NBA, shined again with an eye-catching 23-point performance in his second pre-season outing for the San Antonio Spurs. Frenchman Wembanyama led the Spurs to a 120-104 home win over a second-string Miami Heat, with the 19-year-old also adding four rebounds, four assists and three blocks in just under 23 minutes on court. The 7ft 3in Wembanyama brought the Frost Bank Center crowd to their feet with a furious dunk in the second quarter, and was 10-of-15 shooting. He produced a series of spectacular plays, both offensively and defensively, with the most eye-catching a remarkable left-handed dunk from outside of the restricted area in the third quarter. "I'm still learning to do some things defensively, defending the pin downs, for example," he said. "I'm really learning a lot, and I'm trying to expand my tools on defense, too," he added. Also Read: WATCH | Celtics forward Jayson Tatum ejected during game vs 76ers for showdown with officials Wembanyama said that he felt that both he and the team were developing an understanding with each other. "I think we're on the right path. We've still got a lot to learn about ourselves and also about our teammates but we are on the right path," he said. "Personally, I'm trying to apply what the coach says. I'm learning a lot, lots of new stuff, and I think it's all going down to our individual sacrifices," he added. Rated as one of the most exciting talents to enter the league in years, Wembanyama said he has been impressed with how quickly his team-mates have adjusted to his range of skills, well beyond the norm for such a tall player. "For most of my short career so far, my teammates have had to learn to play with me because sometimes I know they are surprised to see me do some stuff," he said. "But the surprise coming here is I play in the best league in the world now, and the guys just learn quicker. I feel like we've already got a connection, all of us, and I'm really thankful for that," he said. San Antonio's opening match of the regular season is at home on October 25 against Dallas. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama leads San Antonio Spurs to home win over second-string Miami Heat

Damian&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;made a&nbsp;triumphant&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;pre-season&nbsp;debut&nbsp;for the Milwaukee&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;on Sunday, combining well with&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo in a 108-97 road victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Lillard, a seven-time All-Star guard traded from Portland to the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;last month, scored 14 points with three steals, three assists and two rebounds in 22 minutes on the court. The 33-year-old Tokyo Olympic gold medalist sank 3-of-10 shots from the floor, 2-of-7 from 3-point range, and all six of his free throws.

"I felt great. It's always a little bit of rust in the&nbsp;beginning&nbsp;but the game was very simple,"&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;said.

"It was a matter of getting my wind up, just getting into the rhythm. They came out blitzing me in the&nbsp;beginning&nbsp;so it woke me up. It was just good to be back out on the floor."

Greek superstar center Antetokounmpo led the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;with 16 points and eight rebounds in just over 15 minutes on the court and blended well with new teammate&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;in the first game pairing of two of the&nbsp;NBA's top five scorers from last season, each netting more than 31 points a game.

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"I've been on the floor with them a decent amount over the last two weeks so I feel comfortable," said&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;of working with his new teammates.

"I think my game complements the guys really well so it has been seemless. It hasn't been hard at all. Now it's just a matter of being able to play other teams and getting used to each other and how we're going to operate out there."

<h2>- 'Keep building' -</h2>

The Lakers, playing without superstar LeBron James, were led by 16 points and seven rebounds from Anthony Davis. Lillard&nbsp;was pleased that he was able to play a comfortable and familiar game despite new teammates and limited minutes.

"I made the same plays I always make," he said. "I loosen up the defense. I make the right plays then I find my spots and I get aggressive in moments throughout the game. That's what I did tonight.

"Shorter minutes. First game out here. I felt good. We'll just keep building on that."

It has helped that many of the&nbsp;Bucks' offensive schemes were the same as Milwaukee assistant coach Terry Stotts used when he was the head coach at Portland from 2012-2021 when&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;played for the Trail Blazers.

"A lot of what we do offensively is what I did with him for nine years so it has been pretty simple as far as that adjustment,"&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;said.

Lillard&nbsp;said his goal in the run-up to the&nbsp;Bucks' 2023-24 season opener on October 26 at home against Philadelphia is steady improvement. "Just to keep building,"&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;said. "I think it's just one step at a time, enjoy the process and come in and just keep building and keep building throughout the season. That's all we can control."

Lillard&nbsp;and Antetokounmpo are building a chemistry that Milwaukee fans hope can produce a second&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;crown in four seasons. "It has been very solid,"&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;said of his bond with the&nbsp;Bucks' big man. "It has been simple. I don't think I have, and I don't think he has either, gone into it overly trying to piece everything together.

"I think our personalities mesh well. Our styles of play mesh well. Everything else has just happened organically in time and we've got to allow that space to happen."

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Damian Lillard made a triumphant NBA pre-season debut for the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday, combining well with Giannis Antetokounmpo in a 108-97 road victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

Damian Lillard made a triumphant NBA pre-season debut for the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday, combining well with Giannis Antetokounmpo in a 108-97 road victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Lillard, a seven-time All-Star guard traded from Portland to the Bucks last month, scored 14 points with three steals, three assists and two rebounds in 22 minutes on the court. The 33-year-old Tokyo Olympic gold medalist sank 3-of-10 shots from the floor, 2-of-7 from 3-point range, and all six of his free throws. "I felt great. It's always a little bit of rust in the beginning but the game was very simple," Lillard said. "It was a matter of getting my wind up, just getting into the rhythm. They came out blitzing me in the beginning so it woke me up. It was just good to be back out on the floor." Greek superstar center Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 16 points and eight rebounds in just over 15 minutes on the court and blended well with new teammate Lillard in the first game pairing of two of the NBA's top five scorers from last season, each netting more than 31 points a game. Also Read: Al-Hilal defeat Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in Riyadh derby to remain to top "I've been on the floor with them a decent amount over the last two weeks so I feel comfortable," said Lillard of working with his new teammates. "I think my game complements the guys really well so it has been seemless. It hasn't been hard at all. Now it's just a matter of being able to play other teams and getting used to each other and how we're going to operate out there." - 'Keep building' - The Lakers, playing without superstar LeBron James, were led by 16 points and seven rebounds from Anthony Davis. Lillard was pleased that he was able to play a comfortable and familiar game despite new teammates and limited minutes. "I made the same plays I always make," he said. "I loosen up the defense. I make the right plays then I find my spots and I get aggressive in moments throughout the game. That's what I did tonight. "Shorter minutes. First game out here. I felt good. We'll just keep building on that." It has helped that many of the Bucks' offensive schemes were the same as Milwaukee assistant coach Terry Stotts used when he was the head coach at Portland from 2012-2021 when Lillard played for the Trail Blazers. "A lot of what we do offensively is what I did with him for nine years so it has been pretty simple as far as that adjustment," Lillard said. Lillard said his goal in the run-up to the Bucks' 2023-24 season opener on October 26 at home against Philadelphia is steady improvement. "Just to keep building," Lillard said. "I think it's just one step at a time, enjoy the process and come in and just keep building and keep building throughout the season. That's all we can control." Lillard and Antetokounmpo are building a chemistry that Milwaukee fans hope can produce a second NBA crown in four seasons. "It has been very solid," Lillard said of his bond with the Bucks' big man. "It has been simple. I don't think I have, and I don't think he has either, gone into it overly trying to piece everything together. "I think our personalities mesh well. Our styles of play mesh well. Everything else has just happened organically in time and we've got to allow that space to happen." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Damian Lillard wins pre-season debut for Milwaukee Bucks against Los Angeles Lakers

Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, two of the NBA's top scorers, have united into a dynamic duo that make the Milwaukee Bucks a formidable threat for the 2024 NBA title. The Bucks obtained seven-time All-Star guard Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers last month and united him with seven-time All-Star center Antetokounmpo to create a powerful inside-outside combination along the lines of legends Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal.

"Having a guy like Dame on the team, it's unbelievable," Antetokounmpo said. "Plays at a high level, built from the same cloth, wants to win. He's extremely hungry."

Lillard sees that same hunger in his new teammates. "I'm excited for what's to come," Lillard said.&nbsp;"They want to win equally as bad as I do. I couldn't be more excited. I couldn't be more thankful for this opportunity, to play alongside the best player in the league. It's going to be fun."

Lillard, 33,&nbsp;never reached the NBA Finals in 11 seasons at Portland and wanted out to make that breakthrough. "We've got to focus on the goal to win the championship," Antetokounmpo said. "Dame wants this. He's hungry to win, and he's going to push us. I'm very happy to have him on our team."

Also Read:<a href="https://www.reutersconnect.com/all?categories=SPO&amp;id=tag%3Areuters.com%2C2023%3Anewsml_KBN31J08F%3A1&amp;search=all%3Abasketball">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-go-top-after-dramatic-2-1-win-at-monza-federico-gatti-scores-94th-minute-winner-665313">Serie A: Juventus go top after dramatic 2-1 win at Monza; Federico Gatti scores 94th minute winner</a>

Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee to the 2021 NBA title, delivering the Bucks' first crown in 50 years. But Milwaukee was ousted by Boston in the second round in 2022 and last year -- after 58 wins to become the Eastern Conference top seed -- crashed out to Miami in the first round. That sparked a revamp that included firing Mike Budenholzer as coach, replacing him with Toronto assistant Adrian Griffin.

The Bucks re-signed forward Khris Middleton and centre Brook Lopez, seen as a signal to Antetokounmpo that the team was serious about staying a title contender. Milwaukee erased any doubt on September 27 by landing Lillard in a three-team deal that saw 14-year NBA guard Jrue Holiday sent to Portland, which four days later traded him to Boston, likely the Bucks' top rival in the East.

Lillard averaged 32.2 points a game last season for Portland, third in the NBA, with Antetokounmpo fifth on 31.1 points a game while pulling down 11.8 rebounds a contest as well. The pick-and-roll partnership should see outside shooting chances for Lillard and inside opportunities for the 28-year-old Greek big man if rivals tighten on Lillard defensively.

"It has been very solid," Lillard said of his bond with the Bucks' big man. "It has been simple. I don't think I have, and I don't think he has either, gone into it overly trying to piece everything together.

"I think our personalities mesh well. Our styles of play mesh well. Everything else has just happened organically in time and we've got to allow that space to happen."

That's with barely four weeks between the trade and Milwaukee's opener on Thursday against visiting Philadelphia."I know we're both willing to be ourselves and let the other guy be himself because I need Dame to be Dame and I think he needs me to be me," Antetokounmpo said.

<h2>'It has been seamless'</h2>

It's more than Antetokounmpo that Lillard has blended within the past month. "I've been on the floor with them a decent amount so I feel comfortable," Lillard said of working with his new teammates.

"I think my game complements the guys really well so it has been seamless. It hasn't been hard at all. Now it's just a matter of being able to play other teams and getting used to each other and how we're going to operate out there. "Lillard called his new club "a boost of energy and focus and excitement."&nbsp;"You make your way around and you start to see the level of the organization," he said. "They won a championship so it's the standard. I've been striving for that."

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Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, two of the NBA's top scorers, have united into a dynamic duo that make the Milwaukee Bucks a formidable threat for the 2024 NBA title.

Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, two of the NBA's top scorers, have united into a dynamic duo that make the Milwaukee Bucks a formidable threat for the 2024 NBA title. The Bucks obtained seven-time All-Star guard Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers last month and united him with seven-time All-Star center Antetokounmpo to create a powerful inside-outside combination along the lines of legends Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal. "Having a guy like Dame on the team, it's unbelievable," Antetokounmpo said. "Plays at a high level, built from the same cloth, wants to win. He's extremely hungry." Lillard sees that same hunger in his new teammates. "I'm excited for what's to come," Lillard said. "They want to win equally as bad as I do. I couldn't be more excited. I couldn't be more thankful for this opportunity, to play alongside the best player in the league. It's going to be fun." Lillard, 33, never reached the NBA Finals in 11 seasons at Portland and wanted out to make that breakthrough. "We've got to focus on the goal to win the championship," Antetokounmpo said. "Dame wants this. He's hungry to win, and he's going to push us. I'm very happy to have him on our team." Also Read: Serie A: Juventus go top after dramatic 2-1 win at Monza; Federico Gatti scores 94th minute winner Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee to the 2021 NBA title, delivering the Bucks' first crown in 50 years. But Milwaukee was ousted by Boston in the second round in 2022 and last year -- after 58 wins to become the Eastern Conference top seed -- crashed out to Miami in the first round. That sparked a revamp that included firing Mike Budenholzer as coach, replacing him with Toronto assistant Adrian Griffin. The Bucks re-signed forward Khris Middleton and centre Brook Lopez, seen as a signal to Antetokounmpo that the team was serious about staying a title contender. Milwaukee erased any doubt on September 27 by landing Lillard in a three-team deal that saw 14-year NBA guard Jrue Holiday sent to Portland, which four days later traded him to Boston, likely the Bucks' top rival in the East. Lillard averaged 32.2 points a game last season for Portland, third in the NBA, with Antetokounmpo fifth on 31.1 points a game while pulling down 11.8 rebounds a contest as well. The pick-and-roll partnership should see outside shooting chances for Lillard and inside opportunities for the 28-year-old Greek big man if rivals tighten on Lillard defensively. "It has been very solid," Lillard said of his bond with the Bucks' big man. "It has been simple. I don't think I have, and I don't think he has either, gone into it overly trying to piece everything together. "I think our personalities mesh well. Our styles of play mesh well. Everything else has just happened organically in time and we've got to allow that space to happen." That's with barely four weeks between the trade and Milwaukee's opener on Thursday against visiting Philadelphia."I know we're both willing to be ourselves and let the other guy be himself because I need Dame to be Dame and I think he needs me to be me," Antetokounmpo said. 'It has been seamless' It's more than Antetokounmpo that Lillard has blended within the past month. "I've been on the floor with them a decent amount so I feel comfortable," Lillard said of working with his new teammates. "I think my game complements the guys really well so it has been seamless. It hasn't been hard at all. Now it's just a matter of being able to play other teams and getting used to each other and how we're going to operate out there. "Lillard called his new club "a boost of energy and focus and excitement." "You make your way around and you start to see the level of the organization," he said. "They won a championship so it's the standard. I've been striving for that." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo join forces to make Bucks serious threat for NBA title

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 33 points to propel the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 113-110 NBA victory over LeBron James and the weary Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. Gilgeous-Alexander connected on 11 of 18 shots from the field and made all 10 of his free throws.

Jalen Williams scored 21 points and rookie center Chet Holmgren added 18 for the Thunder, who had seven players score in double figures. Anthony Davis led Los Angeles with 31 points and 14 rebounds. James had 21 points, 12 rebounds and six assists for the Lakers, who led by as many as 14 points in the first half but couldn't keep the pressure on in the second night of a back-to-back and with a bevy of players nursing injuries.

Oklahoma City out-scored Los Angeles 42-23 in the second quarter to lead 72-60 at halftime and never trailed the rest of the way. "I thought we played really good ball the first quarter," James said. "But after that you could start seeing the three in four (nights), back-to-back, the bodies that we don't have started to wear on us... especially versus a young team like OKC." In Chicago, the short-handed Bulls held off Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks 120-113 in overtime. Nikola Vucevic scored 29 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the Bulls, who were without injured Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.

Alex Caruso drained a three-pointer at the buzzer to send it to overtime, and Caruso's steal set up Patrick Williams's dunk that capped the scoring in the extra session. A dunk by Antetokounmpo had put Milwaukee up 110-109 with 2:41 left in overtime, but Vucevic answered with a dunk that put Chicago up for good.

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Antetokounmpo shook off a slow start -- he scored just four points in the first half -- to lead the Bucks with 26 points and 14 rebounds. Brook Lopez scored 20, Malik Beasley added 19 and Damian Lillard had 18 for the Bucks, who trailed by 12 early in the fourth quarter but grabbed a 106-103 lead with 5.2sec left in regulation.

Miami's Jimmy Butler returned from a two-game injury absence and scored 24 of his 36 points in the second half to help the Heat rally for a 142-132 victory over the Indiana Pacers. Butler grabbed 10 rebounds and rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr scored 24 points off the bench as the Heat withstood a 44-point performance from Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton.

The Heat trailed until the fourth quarter, but out-scored the Pacers 45-32 in the final frame. The Charlotte Hornets, who confirmed Thursday that LaMelo Ball will miss significant time with a sprained right ankle, got a morale-boosting 129-128 victory over the Nets in Brooklyn.

Terry Rozier scored 37 points for the Hornets, his step-back basket with 39.9sec remaining putting Charlotte up 129-126. Nic Claxton managed to cut the deficit with a layup, but Cam Johnson came up empty on a three-point attempt in the waning seconds and the Hornets escaped with the win.

<h2>&nbsp;Pistons, Spurs still reeling</h2>

Elsewhere, Jalen Brunson starred for the New York Knicks, scoring 42 points in a 118-112 victory over the reeling Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden. The Pistons have now lost 16 straight -- including all 15 of their games in November.

San Antonio's skid continued, too, the Spurs dropping their 13th straight -- 137-135 to the Atlanta Hawks. Trae Young scored a season-high 45 points for the Hawks. Jeremy Sochan scored 33 for San Antonio and rookie Victor Wembanyama added 21 points 12 rebounds and four blocked shots in the defeat.

The Portland Trail Blazers, trailing by as many as 16 points in the first half, came alive after the break to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 103-95. Shaedon Sharpe scored 20 of his 29 points in the second half, Jerami Grant added 13 points and rookie Duop Reath chipped in 13 off the bench to help Portland mount their comeback.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 33 points to propel the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 113-110 NBA victory over LeBron James and the weary Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 33 points to propel the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 113-110 NBA victory over LeBron James and the weary Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. Gilgeous-Alexander connected on 11 of 18 shots from the field and made all 10 of his free throws. Jalen Williams scored 21 points and rookie center Chet Holmgren added 18 for the Thunder, who had seven players score in double figures. Anthony Davis led Los Angeles with 31 points and 14 rebounds. James had 21 points, 12 rebounds and six assists for the Lakers, who led by as many as 14 points in the first half but couldn't keep the pressure on in the second night of a back-to-back and with a bevy of players nursing injuries. Oklahoma City out-scored Los Angeles 42-23 in the second quarter to lead 72-60 at halftime and never trailed the rest of the way. "I thought we played really good ball the first quarter," James said. "But after that you could start seeing the three in four (nights), back-to-back, the bodies that we don't have started to wear on us... especially versus a young team like OKC." In Chicago, the short-handed Bulls held off Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks 120-113 in overtime. Nikola Vucevic scored 29 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the Bulls, who were without injured Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan. Alex Caruso drained a three-pointer at the buzzer to send it to overtime, and Caruso's steal set up Patrick Williams's dunk that capped the scoring in the extra session. A dunk by Antetokounmpo had put Milwaukee up 110-109 with 2:41 left in overtime, but Vucevic answered with a dunk that put Chicago up for good. Also Read: LeBron James' elder son Bronny James set to return to college basketball activities after cardiac arrest Antetokounmpo shook off a slow start -- he scored just four points in the first half -- to lead the Bucks with 26 points and 14 rebounds. Brook Lopez scored 20, Malik Beasley added 19 and Damian Lillard had 18 for the Bucks, who trailed by 12 early in the fourth quarter but grabbed a 106-103 lead with 5.2sec left in regulation. Miami's Jimmy Butler returned from a two-game injury absence and scored 24 of his 36 points in the second half to help the Heat rally for a 142-132 victory over the Indiana Pacers. Butler grabbed 10 rebounds and rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr scored 24 points off the bench as the Heat withstood a 44-point performance from Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton. The Heat trailed until the fourth quarter, but out-scored the Pacers 45-32 in the final frame. The Charlotte Hornets, who confirmed Thursday that LaMelo Ball will miss significant time with a sprained right ankle, got a morale-boosting 129-128 victory over the Nets in Brooklyn. Terry Rozier scored 37 points for the Hornets, his step-back basket with 39.9sec remaining putting Charlotte up 129-126. Nic Claxton managed to cut the deficit with a layup, but Cam Johnson came up empty on a three-point attempt in the waning seconds and the Hornets escaped with the win. Pistons, Spurs still reeling Elsewhere, Jalen Brunson starred for the New York Knicks, scoring 42 points in a 118-112 victory over the reeling Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden. The Pistons have now lost 16 straight -- including all 15 of their games in November. San Antonio's skid continued, too, the Spurs dropping their 13th straight -- 137-135 to the Atlanta Hawks. Trae Young scored a season-high 45 points for the Hawks. Jeremy Sochan scored 33 for San Antonio and rookie Victor Wembanyama added 21 points 12 rebounds and four blocked shots in the defeat. The Portland Trail Blazers, trailing by as many as 16 points in the first half, came alive after the break to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 103-95. Shaedon Sharpe scored 20 of his 29 points in the second half, Jerami Grant added 13 points and rookie Duop Reath chipped in 13 off the bench to help Portland mount their comeback.

NBA: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 33 points helps Oklahoma City Thunder defeat Los Angeles Lakers

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas.&nbsp; This year's top NBA Draft pick, in foul trouble throughout the second half, made 6-of-9 shots from the floor, 3-of-5 from 3-point range, with five rebounds, two assists, two steals and a blocked shot over 23 minutes in his first NBA contest.

It was Slovenian guard Luka Doncic of Dallas who starred with 33 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists as the Mavericks scored the last eight points for the victory."It all starts with our defense," Doncic said. "We played good defense for three quarters but especially at the end we locked in."

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Wembanyama, the 19-year-old phenomenon considered the top NBA prospect since LeBron James, used his 7-foot-4 (2.24m) frame, surprising quickness and outside shooting touch to display his arsenal of skills in the first game of his rookie campaign. After picking up his fifth foul only 26 seconds into the fourth quarter, Wembanyama went to the bench until only 7:12 remained.

Only 19 seconds later, Wembanyama made an alley-oop dunk shot off a pass from Devin Vassell, then added a 3-pointer, and his dunk with 4:56 to play gave the Spurs a 113-112 lead. A Wembanyama jumper tied it at 115-115 with 3:55 remaining, but the Mavs were too tough for the Spurs down the stretch.

"Wemby" began drawing huge cheers after only 38 seconds, blocking a jump shot by eight-time NBA All-Star guard Kyrie Irving. Attracting global attention since before joining the squad where compatriot Tony Parker became an NBA superstar, Wembanyama grabbed his first rebound off the defensive boards after 59 seconds and his first assist came 12 seconds later off a Zach Collins jumper. Wembanyama opened his NBA scoring account on a 3-pointer with 8:24 remaining in the first quarter for a 13-7 Spurs lead.

Wembanyama picked up his second foul late in the first quarter and went to the bench with the Spurs ahead 40-33 on the way to a 68-64 halftime lead. In the first half, Wembanyama had six points on 2-of-4 shooting, all from 3-point range, with three rebounds, a blocked shot, an assist and a steal over 12 minutes.

In the second half, Wembanyama picked up his third and fourth fouls 39 seconds apart, both offensively, and went to the bench 3:23 into the third quarter. Seconds later, the Mavericks took their first lead at 73-72 and closed the quarter on an 8-0 run for their largest lead to that point at 96-91.

"Fortunately for us he's a very tooled, prioritized young man," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said of Wembanyama. "I don't have to teach him what is it to be a pro."

<h2>Tatum leads Boston win&nbsp;</h2>

In other NBA openers, Jayson Tatum had 34 points and 11 rebounds while Latvian forward Kristaps Porzingis added 30 points to lead Boston's 108-104 triumph at New York. Porzingis had the most points for any player making his Celtics debut. Sacramento's Harrison Barnes scored 33 points to power Sacramento over host Utah 130-114.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 31 points led Oklahoma City in a 124-104 win at Chicago. Donovan Mitchell's 3-pointer with 12.1 seconds remaining lifted Cleveland to a 114-113 victory at Brooklyn. Mitchell and Max Strus each scored 27 to lead the Cavaliers. Detroit missed four shots in the last 64 seconds and host Miami, led by Bam Adebayo's 22 points and 19 from Jimmy Butler, edged the Pistons 103-102.

C.J. McCollum had 24 points and Zion Williamson added 23 to lead New Orleans over host Memphis 111-104.

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas.

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas. This year's top NBA Draft pick, in foul trouble throughout the second half, made 6-of-9 shots from the floor, 3-of-5 from 3-point range, with five rebounds, two assists, two steals and a blocked shot over 23 minutes in his first NBA contest. It was Slovenian guard Luka Doncic of Dallas who starred with 33 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists as the Mavericks scored the last eight points for the victory."It all starts with our defense," Doncic said. "We played good defense for three quarters but especially at the end we locked in." Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for an impressive 41-35 win over Seattle Seahawks Wembanyama, the 19-year-old phenomenon considered the top NBA prospect since LeBron James, used his 7-foot-4 (2.24m) frame, surprising quickness and outside shooting touch to display his arsenal of skills in the first game of his rookie campaign. After picking up his fifth foul only 26 seconds into the fourth quarter, Wembanyama went to the bench until only 7:12 remained. Only 19 seconds later, Wembanyama made an alley-oop dunk shot off a pass from Devin Vassell, then added a 3-pointer, and his dunk with 4:56 to play gave the Spurs a 113-112 lead. A Wembanyama jumper tied it at 115-115 with 3:55 remaining, but the Mavs were too tough for the Spurs down the stretch. "Wemby" began drawing huge cheers after only 38 seconds, blocking a jump shot by eight-time NBA All-Star guard Kyrie Irving. Attracting global attention since before joining the squad where compatriot Tony Parker became an NBA superstar, Wembanyama grabbed his first rebound off the defensive boards after 59 seconds and his first assist came 12 seconds later off a Zach Collins jumper. Wembanyama opened his NBA scoring account on a 3-pointer with 8:24 remaining in the first quarter for a 13-7 Spurs lead. Wembanyama picked up his second foul late in the first quarter and went to the bench with the Spurs ahead 40-33 on the way to a 68-64 halftime lead. In the first half, Wembanyama had six points on 2-of-4 shooting, all from 3-point range, with three rebounds, a blocked shot, an assist and a steal over 12 minutes. In the second half, Wembanyama picked up his third and fourth fouls 39 seconds apart, both offensively, and went to the bench 3:23 into the third quarter. Seconds later, the Mavericks took their first lead at 73-72 and closed the quarter on an 8-0 run for their largest lead to that point at 96-91. "Fortunately for us he's a very tooled, prioritized young man," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said of Wembanyama. "I don't have to teach him what is it to be a pro." Tatum leads Boston win In other NBA openers, Jayson Tatum had 34 points and 11 rebounds while Latvian forward Kristaps Porzingis added 30 points to lead Boston's 108-104 triumph at New York. Porzingis had the most points for any player making his Celtics debut. Sacramento's Harrison Barnes scored 33 points to power Sacramento over host Utah 130-114. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 31 points led Oklahoma City in a 124-104 win at Chicago. Donovan Mitchell's 3-pointer with 12.1 seconds remaining lifted Cleveland to a 114-113 victory at Brooklyn. Mitchell and Max Strus each scored 27 to lead the Cavaliers. Detroit missed four shots in the last 64 seconds and host Miami, led by Bam Adebayo's 22 points and 19 from Jimmy Butler, edged the Pistons 103-102. C.J. McCollum had 24 points and Zion Williamson added 23 to lead New Orleans over host Memphis 111-104.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama points not enough to defeat Dallas Mavericks

Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston&nbsp;Celtics&nbsp;beat&nbsp;rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday&nbsp;while&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Draft top pick Victor&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;starred in his&nbsp;first&nbsp;win&nbsp;for the San Antonio Spurs. Jayson Tatum scored 22 points and Jaylen Brown contributed 27 in a strong all-around display from Boston, with all five starters in double figures as the&nbsp;Celtics&nbsp;won their home opener, a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference championship series.

Miami trailed by just three points with 47.1 seconds left when Jimmy Butler was called for a foul on White, which was unsuccessfully challenged by furious Miami coach Erik Spoelstra. White then drained his two free throws and when Tyler Herro missed a 3-point jumper and Brown sank his from 30-feet out, Miami's resistance was finally over.

Three crucial blocks added to an impressive performance from White, who was delighted with beating a&nbsp;Heat&nbsp;team that secured a place in the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Finals with a game-seven triumph at Boston. "Anytime you're on home court, you want to protect the home court and obviously, last time we played them here, they came out winning," White said.

"It's always a big game every time we play against them and we're going to see them down the line a lot of times. So it's always fun." Frenchman&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;turned on the style in San Antonio's 126-122 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets, coming up big in the latter stages of the game as he put up 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds with three blocked shots and two steals. "It's just a victory but it's a day I'll remember,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-nfl-dallas-cowboys-rally-late-for-41-35-impressive-win-over-seattle-seahawks-664979">NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks</a>

"I really love winning. This is what I love most in life. Of course it feels great." The Spurs trailed by two with 32.1 seconds remaining when the 19-year-old grabbed a defensive rebound and tied the game on a driving layup with 20 seconds remaining in regulation.&nbsp;Wembanyama's 16-foot jumper put his team ahead in overtime and he grabbed four total rebounds in the additional period.

"I'm proud of what we did tonight,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said. "We can see where we can get better. A&nbsp;win&nbsp;is a&nbsp;win&nbsp;but it shows that we got a lot of way to go as a team." Spurs coach Gregg Popovich was impressed by the youngster's impact in his second&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;start, despite "Wemby" going only 2-of-10 from the floor in the&nbsp;first&nbsp;half.

"He's a competitor of course. He's gonna be decisive and do everything to&nbsp;win. But they're all like that," he said. "We showed some composure and some not so composed. That's work in progress. Good was they were persistent."

<h2>Proud 'Pop' praise&nbsp;</h2>

Wembanyama&nbsp;finished the night with 7-of-19 shooting from the floor, grabbing five offensive and seven defensive rebounds. "Back in the locker room, Pop acknowledged it was my&nbsp;first-ever&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;win, just made me proud of myself,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said. "But it's just one. We have a whole lot games to come."

Wembanyama's three dunks brought the arena fans to their feet but he received plenty of verbal attention from Popovich in the final minute of the game. "Cause I forgot a play. It's a little mistake -- 100% legit for him to yell at me. I apologize." said&nbsp;Wembanyama.

Nikola Jokic scored 22 points and made 12 rebounds and seven assists as the reigning&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;champion Denver Nuggets went to 2-0 with a 108-104 victory over Memphis. The Chicago Bulls also enjoyed an overtime&nbsp;win, beating the Toronto Raptors 104-103 with Demar DeRozan scoring 33 points.

Alex Caruso's 3-point jumper with 2.1 seconds remaining secured the victory for Chicago. Luka Doncic scored 49 points, including a crucial 3-pointer with 26.1 seconds left, as the Dallas Mavericks held off the Brooklyn Nets 125-120

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Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston Celtics beat rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday while NBA Draft top pick Victor Wembanyama starred in his first win for the San Antonio Spurs.

Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston Celtics beat rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday while NBA Draft top pick Victor Wembanyama starred in his first win for the San Antonio Spurs. Jayson Tatum scored 22 points and Jaylen Brown contributed 27 in a strong all-around display from Boston, with all five starters in double figures as the Celtics won their home opener, a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference championship series. Miami trailed by just three points with 47.1 seconds left when Jimmy Butler was called for a foul on White, which was unsuccessfully challenged by furious Miami coach Erik Spoelstra. White then drained his two free throws and when Tyler Herro missed a 3-point jumper and Brown sank his from 30-feet out, Miami's resistance was finally over. Three crucial blocks added to an impressive performance from White, who was delighted with beating a Heat team that secured a place in the NBA Finals with a game-seven triumph at Boston. "Anytime you're on home court, you want to protect the home court and obviously, last time we played them here, they came out winning," White said. "It's always a big game every time we play against them and we're going to see them down the line a lot of times. So it's always fun." Frenchman Wembanyama turned on the style in San Antonio's 126-122 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets, coming up big in the latter stages of the game as he put up 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds with three blocked shots and two steals. "It's just a victory but it's a day I'll remember," Wembanyama said. Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks "I really love winning. This is what I love most in life. Of course it feels great." The Spurs trailed by two with 32.1 seconds remaining when the 19-year-old grabbed a defensive rebound and tied the game on a driving layup with 20 seconds remaining in regulation. Wembanyama's 16-foot jumper put his team ahead in overtime and he grabbed four total rebounds in the additional period. "I'm proud of what we did tonight," Wembanyama said. "We can see where we can get better. A win is a win but it shows that we got a lot of way to go as a team." Spurs coach Gregg Popovich was impressed by the youngster's impact in his second NBA start, despite "Wemby" going only 2-of-10 from the floor in the first half. "He's a competitor of course. He's gonna be decisive and do everything to win. But they're all like that," he said. "We showed some composure and some not so composed. That's work in progress. Good was they were persistent." Proud 'Pop' praise Wembanyama finished the night with 7-of-19 shooting from the floor, grabbing five offensive and seven defensive rebounds. "Back in the locker room, Pop acknowledged it was my first-ever NBA win, just made me proud of myself," Wembanyama said. "But it's just one. We have a whole lot games to come." Wembanyama's three dunks brought the arena fans to their feet but he received plenty of verbal attention from Popovich in the final minute of the game. "Cause I forgot a play. It's a little mistake -- 100% legit for him to yell at me. I apologize." said Wembanyama. Nikola Jokic scored 22 points and made 12 rebounds and seven assists as the reigning NBA champion Denver Nuggets went to 2-0 with a 108-104 victory over Memphis. The Chicago Bulls also enjoyed an overtime win, beating the Toronto Raptors 104-103 with Demar DeRozan scoring 33 points. Alex Caruso's 3-point jumper with 2.1 seconds remaining secured the victory for Chicago. Luka Doncic scored 49 points, including a crucial 3-pointer with 26.1 seconds left, as the Dallas Mavericks held off the Brooklyn Nets 125-120 WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Derrick White helps Boston Celtics beat Miami Heat, Victor Wembanyama shines in first win for Spurs

Joel Embiid unleashed a dominant performance with 35 points, 15 rebounds, seven assists, six blocked shots and two steals on Sunday in Philadelphia's 126-98 NBA rout of Portland. The reigning NBA Most Valuable Player delivered what 76ers coach Nick Nurse called a "super dominant" showing, lifting the Sixers to victory in their season home opener.

"He's always exceptional," 76ers guard De'Anthony Melton said. "He's always amazing for us. When he's playing like that, he's the best player in the league every night." The 29-year-old Cameroonian big man&nbsp;made 12-of-22 shots from the floor, including 2-of-4 from 3-point range, and sank 9-of-11 from the free throw line in 29 minutes.

"That's my job, try to get better every single day," Embiid said. "It starts on defense, having that mentality to play it, lock down everything and block everything and offensively just trying to make the right plays.

"It's all about taking care of business. We got the win. I'm excited about that. We've still got a long way to go." The haunting thing for 76ers' rivals is Embiid insists he must improve.

"I've still got to get better," he said. "I had a bad turnover toward the end. I had three of them. That I can correct. I missed some passes and defensively I could have done a better job. But I'm happy." Tyrese Maxey added 26 points and 10 rebounds while Tobias Harris scored 24 to spark the Sixers, who expect to have unhappy guard James Harden back at practice on Tuesday.

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Harden, a former MVP and three-time scoring champion who led the NBA in assists last season,&nbsp;hasn't played this season. The 34-year-old guard has tried to get into shape and took part in a pre-game walkthrough on Sunday, with Nurse saying Harden has done well in conditioning.

Harden sought a trade in vain in the off-season and said his relationship with club officials can't be repaired. Defending champion Denver improved to 3-0 as two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic had game highs of 28 points and 14 rebounds to lead a 128-95 blowout at Oklahoma City.

Michael Porter Jr. added 20 points and Jamal Murray had 19 for the Nuggets. Stephen Curry scored 24 points, going 6-of-14 from 3-point range, and Klay Thompson added 19 points, going 5-of-10 from beyond the arc, in Golden State's 106-95 triumph at Houston. Golden State guard Chris Paul came off the bench for the first time in his 19-year career after 1,365 consecutive starts.

<h2>&nbsp;Bucks, Lakers fall&nbsp;</h2>

Damian Lillard struggled in his second game with Milwaukee, scoring only six points in a 127-110 home loss to Atlanta. Trae Young scored 20 points and added 11 assists to spark eight Hawks scorers in double figures, including Clint Capela, who scored 12 points and grabbed 12 rebounds.

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 26 points and 11 rebounds for the Bucks, but All-Star teammate Lillard, obtained in a trade from Portland last month, went 2-of-12 from the floor, 2-of-8 from 3-point range, and had six turnovers. "It was a tough night," Bucks coach Adrian Griffin said. "We didn't deserve to win. They did."

Sacramento's De'Aaron Fox scored 37 points and the host Kings beat the Los Angeles Lakers 132-127 in overtime, with reserve Malik Monk scoring half his 22 points in overtime. Anthony Davis led the Lakers with 30 points and 16 rebounds while LeBron James contributed 27 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists.

Kawhi Leonard scored 21 points while Russell Westbrook and Paul George each contributed 19 to spark the Los Angeles Clippers over San Antonio 123-83. Top NBA Draft pick Victor Wembanyama lost in his first NBA road game.

"Got a bright future," Westbrook said of the French teen giant. "He's one of a kind. He's going to keep getting better each and every year." "Wemby" scored 11 points with five rebounds and two assists over 26 minutes.

George had game highs of five steals and five assists while Westbrook grabbed a game-high eight rebounds. "We set the tone defensively, got stops, made big shots and that was a good game for us," Westbrook said.

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Joel Embiid unleashed a dominant performance with 35 points, 15 rebounds, seven assists, six blocked shots and two steals on Sunday in Philadelphia's 126-98 NBA rout of Portland.

Joel Embiid unleashed a dominant performance with 35 points, 15 rebounds, seven assists, six blocked shots and two steals on Sunday in Philadelphia's 126-98 NBA rout of Portland. The reigning NBA Most Valuable Player delivered what 76ers coach Nick Nurse called a "super dominant" showing, lifting the Sixers to victory in their season home opener. "He's always exceptional," 76ers guard De'Anthony Melton said. "He's always amazing for us. When he's playing like that, he's the best player in the league every night." The 29-year-old Cameroonian big man made 12-of-22 shots from the floor, including 2-of-4 from 3-point range, and sank 9-of-11 from the free throw line in 29 minutes. "That's my job, try to get better every single day," Embiid said. "It starts on defense, having that mentality to play it, lock down everything and block everything and offensively just trying to make the right plays. "It's all about taking care of business. We got the win. I'm excited about that. We've still got a long way to go." The haunting thing for 76ers' rivals is Embiid insists he must improve. "I've still got to get better," he said. "I had a bad turnover toward the end. I had three of them. That I can correct. I missed some passes and defensively I could have done a better job. But I'm happy." Tyrese Maxey added 26 points and 10 rebounds while Tobias Harris scored 24 to spark the Sixers, who expect to have unhappy guard James Harden back at practice on Tuesday. Also Read: NBA: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 33 points helps Oklahoma City Thunder defeat Los Angeles Lakers Harden, a former MVP and three-time scoring champion who led the NBA in assists last season, hasn't played this season. The 34-year-old guard has tried to get into shape and took part in a pre-game walkthrough on Sunday, with Nurse saying Harden has done well in conditioning. Harden sought a trade in vain in the off-season and said his relationship with club officials can't be repaired. Defending champion Denver improved to 3-0 as two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic had game highs of 28 points and 14 rebounds to lead a 128-95 blowout at Oklahoma City. Michael Porter Jr. added 20 points and Jamal Murray had 19 for the Nuggets. Stephen Curry scored 24 points, going 6-of-14 from 3-point range, and Klay Thompson added 19 points, going 5-of-10 from beyond the arc, in Golden State's 106-95 triumph at Houston. Golden State guard Chris Paul came off the bench for the first time in his 19-year career after 1,365 consecutive starts. Bucks, Lakers fall Damian Lillard struggled in his second game with Milwaukee, scoring only six points in a 127-110 home loss to Atlanta. Trae Young scored 20 points and added 11 assists to spark eight Hawks scorers in double figures, including Clint Capela, who scored 12 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 26 points and 11 rebounds for the Bucks, but All-Star teammate Lillard, obtained in a trade from Portland last month, went 2-of-12 from the floor, 2-of-8 from 3-point range, and had six turnovers. "It was a tough night," Bucks coach Adrian Griffin said. "We didn't deserve to win. They did." Sacramento's De'Aaron Fox scored 37 points and the host Kings beat the Los Angeles Lakers 132-127 in overtime, with reserve Malik Monk scoring half his 22 points in overtime. Anthony Davis led the Lakers with 30 points and 16 rebounds while LeBron James contributed 27 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists. Kawhi Leonard scored 21 points while Russell Westbrook and Paul George each contributed 19 to spark the Los Angeles Clippers over San Antonio 123-83. Top NBA Draft pick Victor Wembanyama lost in his first NBA road game. "Got a bright future," Westbrook said of the French teen giant. "He's one of a kind. He's going to keep getting better each and every year." "Wemby" scored 11 points with five rebounds and two assists over 26 minutes. George had game highs of five steals and five assists while Westbrook grabbed a game-high eight rebounds. "We set the tone defensively, got stops, made big shots and that was a good game for us," Westbrook said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Philadelphia's Joel Embiid unleashes dominant performance, 76ers beat Portland

Victor Wembanyama scored 18 points as the San Antonio Spurs staged a dramatic comeback to snatch a last-gasp 115-114 victory over Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday. San Antonio, coming off a brutal 40-point mauling by the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, looked to be heading for another heavy defeat after Phoenix cruised into a 20-point lead early in the third quarter. But a thrilling duel in Phoenix was turned on its head by San Antonio in the fourth quarter, who outscored the Suns 33-19 in the final frame to secure victory.

French prodigy Wembanyama, the No.1 NBA Draft pick, played a crucial role in the comeback, with a jump shot from 15 feet making it a three-point game with 49 seconds left on the clock. The 7ft 4in (2.24m) tall teenager then tipped in a dunk to make it a one-point game with seven seconds remaining.

The decisive play however came from forward Keldon Johnson, who wrestled the ball away from a stunned Durant before driving to the basket for a layup that handed San Antonio their first lead of the game with just two seconds remaining. There was still time for Durant to launch an attempted buzzer-beater, but his shot missed to leave San Antonio celebrating their first road win of the season.

"It wasn't our prettiest game but we're learning every day and we're on the right path," the 19-year-old Wembanyama told broadcaster TNT after the win. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich saluted his team's ability to keep grinding away in search of a victory.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-nfl-dallas-cowboys-rally-late-for-41-35-impressive-win-over-seattle-seahawks-664979">NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks</a>

"We made a gazillion mistakes -- but it's a game of mistakes. And so does every team," Popovich said.&nbsp;"But we just kept playing and that's the best thing about the group. I was really proud of them."

<h2>&nbsp;'Eager to sacrifice'&nbsp;</h2>

Wembanyama was one of five San Antonio players who finished in double figures. Johnson led the Spurs scoring with 27 points while Wembanyama also had eight rebounds and four blocks.

The youngster from Paris revealed he had been determined not to be overawed by lining up against one of his NBA idols in Durant, who finished with 26 points to lead the Phoenix scoring. "I mean KD, he's just like in the highlights," Wembanyama said of Durant.

"Sometimes I want to think like 'This is a guy I've watched for 10 years, like my idol'. But I've got to lock in because I know he's going to try and step on me the whole game. So I don't care he's my idol." Durant lamented conceding the late turnover from Johnson that ultimately cost Phoenix the win.&nbsp;

"It just happened so fast," Durant said. "I should have held on to it." Wembanyama, who arrived in the NBA declaring he hoped to help San Antonio become championship contenders once again, added that the team's transformation would require patience.&nbsp; "How patient I am? As patient as we need to be. I'm new here," he said. "I don't know yet what it takes to win a championship but I'm eager to find out and make the sacrifices.&nbsp;"The good thing is I have total trust in my organisation and my coach so you know, it's going to take time."

San Antonio's win in Phoenix was one of three games in the NBA on Tuesday. In Los Angeles, the Clippers hosted the Orlando Magic with new recruit James Harden in the building following his blockbuster trade from the Philadelphia 76ers. Television footage showed Harden meeting his new team-mates in the locker room ahead of the clash, which the Clippers went on to win 118-102.In the day's other game, the New York Knicks outgunned the Cleveland Cavaliers on the road with Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson scoring 19 points apiece in a 109-91 victory.

Victor Wembanyama scored 18 points as the San Antonio Spurs staged a dramatic comeback to snatch a last-gasp 115-114 victory over Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.

Victor Wembanyama scored 18 points as the San Antonio Spurs staged a dramatic comeback to snatch a last-gasp 115-114 victory over Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday. San Antonio, coming off a brutal 40-point mauling by the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, looked to be heading for another heavy defeat after Phoenix cruised into a 20-point lead early in the third quarter. But a thrilling duel in Phoenix was turned on its head by San Antonio in the fourth quarter, who outscored the Suns 33-19 in the final frame to secure victory. French prodigy Wembanyama, the No.1 NBA Draft pick, played a crucial role in the comeback, with a jump shot from 15 feet making it a three-point game with 49 seconds left on the clock. The 7ft 4in (2.24m) tall teenager then tipped in a dunk to make it a one-point game with seven seconds remaining. The decisive play however came from forward Keldon Johnson, who wrestled the ball away from a stunned Durant before driving to the basket for a layup that handed San Antonio their first lead of the game with just two seconds remaining. There was still time for Durant to launch an attempted buzzer-beater, but his shot missed to leave San Antonio celebrating their first road win of the season. "It wasn't our prettiest game but we're learning every day and we're on the right path," the 19-year-old Wembanyama told broadcaster TNT after the win. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich saluted his team's ability to keep grinding away in search of a victory. Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks "We made a gazillion mistakes -- but it's a game of mistakes. And so does every team," Popovich said. "But we just kept playing and that's the best thing about the group. I was really proud of them." 'Eager to sacrifice' Wembanyama was one of five San Antonio players who finished in double figures. Johnson led the Spurs scoring with 27 points while Wembanyama also had eight rebounds and four blocks. The youngster from Paris revealed he had been determined not to be overawed by lining up against one of his NBA idols in Durant, who finished with 26 points to lead the Phoenix scoring. "I mean KD, he's just like in the highlights," Wembanyama said of Durant. "Sometimes I want to think like 'This is a guy I've watched for 10 years, like my idol'. But I've got to lock in because I know he's going to try and step on me the whole game. So I don't care he's my idol." Durant lamented conceding the late turnover from Johnson that ultimately cost Phoenix the win. "It just happened so fast," Durant said. "I should have held on to it." Wembanyama, who arrived in the NBA declaring he hoped to help San Antonio become championship contenders once again, added that the team's transformation would require patience. "How patient I am? As patient as we need to be. I'm new here," he said. "I don't know yet what it takes to win a championship but I'm eager to find out and make the sacrifices. "The good thing is I have total trust in my organisation and my coach so you know, it's going to take time." San Antonio's win in Phoenix was one of three games in the NBA on Tuesday. In Los Angeles, the Clippers hosted the Orlando Magic with new recruit James Harden in the building following his blockbuster trade from the Philadelphia 76ers. Television footage showed Harden meeting his new team-mates in the locker room ahead of the clash, which the Clippers went on to win 118-102.In the day's other game, the New York Knicks outgunned the Cleveland Cavaliers on the road with Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson scoring 19 points apiece in a 109-91 victory.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama helps San Antonio Spurs defeat Phoenix Suns

Joel Embiid delivered his sixth NBA career triple double on Monday to lead Philadelphia to a 138-94 rout of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Cameroonian's 30 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists helped inflict on LeBron James the most lopsided loss of his career. Embiid made nine-of-15 from the floor, including 2-of-3 from three-point range, and sank 10 of his 12 free throws. "You're trying to play winning basketball," Embiid said.&nbsp; "When my teammates are wide open, I want to get them easy shots, just make the game easy for myself."

The 29-year-old, seven-foot tall (2.13m) NBA Most Valuable Player last season notched his first triple double of the campaign in three quarters on the same night the 76ers made 22 three-pointers, one shy of the club record. Tyrese Maxey scored a game-high 31 points and added eight assists for the Sixers, who shot 47-of-93 from the floor and 22-of-46 from three-point range.

"We're playing together. We're having fun sharing the ball," Embiid said.&nbsp; "The ball is moving. We know what we've got to do. It starts on defense. Once you get stops, you get in transition and get easy baskets."

Four-time NBA MVP LeBron James, who led the Lakers with 18 points, suffered the heaviest defeat of his 21-year NBA career. Asked what needed to change for the Lakers, he replied: "A lot."

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<h2>'A ton of threes'</h2>

James passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the all-time NBA minutes played in regular season and playoffs combined at more than 66,300.

The scoreline eclipsed a 31-point win by the Syracuse Nationals, who moved to Philadelphia, over the then-Minneapolis Lakers in November 1951 as the biggest margin between the two franchises. Maxey went 5-of-12 from three-point range while Patrick Beverley was 4-of-8 from beyond the arc and Marcus Morris was 4-of-5 with three-point shots for the 76ers. "We want everyone to shoot a ton of threes and it paid off today," Beverley said.&nbsp;

"When we get on the court it's easy. In practice we give each other hell." The Lakers, who had 17 points and 11 rebounds from Anthony Davis, hit their first four shots then missed 10 of their next 11, going more than four minutes without a basket, while the 76ers went on a 20-2 run.

Embiid scored seven and Maxey had six in the spurt as the hosts seized a 32-19 lead after the first quarter and a 68-53 halftime edge. Philadelphia improved to 12-5, one game behind Eastern Conference leader Boston, while the Lakers slid to 10-8.

Depleted defending NBA champion Denver, sparked by guard Reggie Jackson and 35-year-old center DeAndre Jordan, rallied late to beat the host Los Angeles Clippers 113-104. The shorthanded Nuggets were without two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic due to a back injury, forward Aaron Gordon with a sore right heel and guard Jamal Murray with a right hamstring injury.

Denver began the fourth quarter with a 22-6 run to grab a 99-94 lead and held off Los Angeles down the stretch. Two former Clippers powered Denver as Jackson had 35 points and 13 assists while Jordan added 21 points and 13 rebounds.

&nbsp;

<h2>&nbsp;Wizards win at last&nbsp;</h2>

Kawhi Leonard scored 31 points to lead the Clippers. The Nuggets improved to 12-6, moving one game behind Western Conference leader Minnesota, while the Clippers fell to 7-9.

Host Utah edged New Orleans 114-112 as Keyonte George scored 19 points and Jordan Clarkson added 16 and 10 assists. Zion Williamson scored a game-high 26 points for the Pelicans while Brandon Ingram added 25.

In a matchup of the NBA's worst teams, Washington's Kyle Kuzma scored 32 points, grabbed 12 rebounds and added eight assists to spark the visiting Wizards over Detroit 126-107. Washington improved to 3-14 while Detroit, led by Cade Cunningham's 26 points, sank to a league-worst 2-15.

The Pistons' losing streak stretched to 14 games while the Wizards snapped a nine-game win drought. Portland's Jerami Grant scored 34 points and Bahamian center Deandre Ayton contributed 22 points and 13 rebounds to lift the Trail Blazers over host Indiana 114-110. Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 33 points.

Joel Embiid delivered his sixth NBA career triple double on Monday to lead Philadelphia to a 138-94 rout of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Cameroonian's 30 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists helped inflict on LeBron James the most lopsided loss of his career.

Joel Embiid delivered his sixth NBA career triple double on Monday to lead Philadelphia to a 138-94 rout of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Cameroonian's 30 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists helped inflict on LeBron James the most lopsided loss of his career. Embiid made nine-of-15 from the floor, including 2-of-3 from three-point range, and sank 10 of his 12 free throws. "You're trying to play winning basketball," Embiid said. "When my teammates are wide open, I want to get them easy shots, just make the game easy for myself." The 29-year-old, seven-foot tall (2.13m) NBA Most Valuable Player last season notched his first triple double of the campaign in three quarters on the same night the 76ers made 22 three-pointers, one shy of the club record. Tyrese Maxey scored a game-high 31 points and added eight assists for the Sixers, who shot 47-of-93 from the floor and 22-of-46 from three-point range. "We're playing together. We're having fun sharing the ball," Embiid said. "The ball is moving. We know what we've got to do. It starts on defense. Once you get stops, you get in transition and get easy baskets." Four-time NBA MVP LeBron James, who led the Lakers with 18 points, suffered the heaviest defeat of his 21-year NBA career. Asked what needed to change for the Lakers, he replied: "A lot." Also Read: Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts 'A ton of threes' James passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the all-time NBA minutes played in regular season and playoffs combined at more than 66,300. The scoreline eclipsed a 31-point win by the Syracuse Nationals, who moved to Philadelphia, over the then-Minneapolis Lakers in November 1951 as the biggest margin between the two franchises. Maxey went 5-of-12 from three-point range while Patrick Beverley was 4-of-8 from beyond the arc and Marcus Morris was 4-of-5 with three-point shots for the 76ers. "We want everyone to shoot a ton of threes and it paid off today," Beverley said. "When we get on the court it's easy. In practice we give each other hell." The Lakers, who had 17 points and 11 rebounds from Anthony Davis, hit their first four shots then missed 10 of their next 11, going more than four minutes without a basket, while the 76ers went on a 20-2 run. Embiid scored seven and Maxey had six in the spurt as the hosts seized a 32-19 lead after the first quarter and a 68-53 halftime edge. Philadelphia improved to 12-5, one game behind Eastern Conference leader Boston, while the Lakers slid to 10-8. Depleted defending NBA champion Denver, sparked by guard Reggie Jackson and 35-year-old center DeAndre Jordan, rallied late to beat the host Los Angeles Clippers 113-104. The shorthanded Nuggets were without two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic due to a back injury, forward Aaron Gordon with a sore right heel and guard Jamal Murray with a right hamstring injury. Denver began the fourth quarter with a 22-6 run to grab a 99-94 lead and held off Los Angeles down the stretch. Two former Clippers powered Denver as Jackson had 35 points and 13 assists while Jordan added 21 points and 13 rebounds. Wizards win at last Kawhi Leonard scored 31 points to lead the Clippers. The Nuggets improved to 12-6, moving one game behind Western Conference leader Minnesota, while the Clippers fell to 7-9. Host Utah edged New Orleans 114-112 as Keyonte George scored 19 points and Jordan Clarkson added 16 and 10 assists. Zion Williamson scored a game-high 26 points for the Pelicans while Brandon Ingram added 25. In a matchup of the NBA's worst teams, Washington's Kyle Kuzma scored 32 points, grabbed 12 rebounds and added eight assists to spark the visiting Wizards over Detroit 126-107. Washington improved to 3-14 while Detroit, led by Cade Cunningham's 26 points, sank to a league-worst 2-15. The Pistons' losing streak stretched to 14 games while the Wizards snapped a nine-game win drought. Portland's Jerami Grant scored 34 points and Bahamian center Deandre Ayton contributed 22 points and 13 rebounds to lift the Trail Blazers over host Indiana 114-110. Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 33 points.

NBA: Joel Embiid stars as Philadelphia 76ers defeat Los Angeles Lakers

Jimmy Butler scored 36 points to help the Miami Heat shake off a slow start and beat the Brooklyn Nets 122-115 on Thursday, pushing their NBA winning streak to seven games. The Heat, with Tyler Herro still sidelined by injury, missed 10 of their first 11 shots, but the Nets couldn't build a lead of more than six points in the first quarter.

By halftime the Heat were up 60-52, and Butler scored 18 in the third quarter as Miami pushed their lead to double digits, never trailing in the second half. Butler connected on 12 of 19 shots from the field and added five rebounds with three assists and three blocked shots. Duncan Robinson scored 26 points for Miami and Bam Adebayo chipped in 20. Mikal Bridges and Lonnie Walker IV scored 23 points apiece for the Nets, whose November 1 victory over last year's Eastern Conference champions had pushed the Heat to 1-4.

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Miami haven't dropped a game since and have climbed to third place in the East, 1.5 games behind leaders Boston. In the only other game on Thursday, the short-handed Golden State Warriors hosted the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Warriors, again without injured Stephen Curry, were playing their first game since Draymond Green was handed a five-game suspension for grabbing Minnesota's Rudy Gobert around the neck during a loss to the Timberwolves on Tuesday. Warriors coach Steve Kerr told reporters before the game that Green, who was ejected after grabbing Gobert around the neck and dragging him across the court, "definitely took it too far."

Kerr said he had no objection to Green reacting to Gobert's contact with Golden State's Klay Thompson -- after Thompson tangled with Minnesota's Jaden McDaniels -- but he said Green crossed a line.

"He hung on for six, seven seconds. It was a terrible visual for the league, for Draymond, for everybody," Kerr said. "Draymond was wrong, he knows that, it's a bad look. The five games is deserved. We move forward."

Jimmy Butler scored 36 points to help the Miami Heat shake off a slow start and beat the Brooklyn Nets 122-115 on Thursday, pushing their NBA winning streak to seven games.

Jimmy Butler scored 36 points to help the Miami Heat shake off a slow start and beat the Brooklyn Nets 122-115 on Thursday, pushing their NBA winning streak to seven games. The Heat, with Tyler Herro still sidelined by injury, missed 10 of their first 11 shots, but the Nets couldn't build a lead of more than six points in the first quarter. By halftime the Heat were up 60-52, and Butler scored 18 in the third quarter as Miami pushed their lead to double digits, never trailing in the second half. Butler connected on 12 of 19 shots from the field and added five rebounds with three assists and three blocked shots. Duncan Robinson scored 26 points for Miami and Bam Adebayo chipped in 20. Mikal Bridges and Lonnie Walker IV scored 23 points apiece for the Nets, whose November 1 victory over last year's Eastern Conference champions had pushed the Heat to 1-4. Also Read: Newcastle United manager rues penalty not given against PSG in Champions League game Miami haven't dropped a game since and have climbed to third place in the East, 1.5 games behind leaders Boston. In the only other game on Thursday, the short-handed Golden State Warriors hosted the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Warriors, again without injured Stephen Curry, were playing their first game since Draymond Green was handed a five-game suspension for grabbing Minnesota's Rudy Gobert around the neck during a loss to the Timberwolves on Tuesday. Warriors coach Steve Kerr told reporters before the game that Green, who was ejected after grabbing Gobert around the neck and dragging him across the court, "definitely took it too far." Kerr said he had no objection to Green reacting to Gobert's contact with Golden State's Klay Thompson -- after Thompson tangled with Minnesota's Jaden McDaniels -- but he said Green crossed a line. "He hung on for six, seven seconds. It was a terrible visual for the league, for Draymond, for everybody," Kerr said. "Draymond was wrong, he knows that, it's a bad look. The five games is deserved. We move forward."

Jimmy Butler's 36 points help Miami Heat beat Brooklyn Nets

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has entered an agreement to sell his majority stake in the NBA club to the families who run the Las Vegas Sands casino resort company. NBC Dallas-Fort Worth reported on Wednesday that Cuban said he would receive $3.5 billion in the deal, which must be approved by NBA team owners to be completed.

A statement on Wednesday from the prospective new owners, the families of Miriam Adelson and her son-in-law Patrick Dumont -- president of Sands Corporation, said they hope to complete the purchase by the end of the year. "The Adelson and Dumont families have entered into binding purchase agreements to acquire majority ownership and the right to serve as governor of the Dallas Mavericks," the statement said.

"The families are targeting a closing of the transaction by year-end, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions and approval of the NBA Board of Governors." Forbes magazine last month valued the Mavericks seventh of 30 NBA clubs at $4.5 billion. Forbes says Cuban is worth about $6.2 billion.

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Cuban, a passionate basketball fan who often sits courtside at Mavericks games, bought a majority interest in the team in January of 2000 for $285 million. The 65-year-old American reportedly would remain in operational control of the club but not serve as the team's governor for NBA purposes.

After missing the playoffs for a decade, the Mavericks made it back in 2001, lost in the NBA Finals to Miami in 2006 and captured their first NBA title in 2011 by beating Miami. They hadn't won another playoff series until last year, when they advanced to the Western Conference final before falling to Golden State.

"The Dallas Mavericks are one of the world's most successful and recognizable sports franchises," the families statement said. "The team has won an NBA championship, has a long history of attracting international superstars and has been supported by a dedicated and passionate fan base and leadership group led by Mark Cuban.

"The Adelson and Dumont families are honored to have the opportunity to be stewards of this great franchise. "Through our commitment and additional investment in the team, we look forward to partnering with Mark Cuban to build on the team's success and legacy in Dallas and beyond."

<h2>Doncic third in scoring&nbsp;</h2>

Adelson, the widow of casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, is top shareholder in the Sands corporation, which operates major casinos in Singapore and Macau. Cuban has said he wants to see a new arena built for the Mavericks as part of a casino, providing the state of Texas legalizes gambling.

The Mavericks share third in the NBA Western Conference this season at 11-6. Slovenian star guard Luka Doncic ranked third in the NBA in scoring with 31.1 points a game so far this season. His 64 3-pointers made this season rank second to Golden State's Stephen Curry and six ahead of Dallas teammate Tim Hardaway Jr.

"The goal is to win and to have a team that proudly represents the greater DFW area and serves as a strong and valuable member of the local community," the families statement said. "We believe that with this partnership and our commitment to the team, the community and the fans, the future is bright for the Dallas Mavericks."

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has entered an agreement to sell his majority stake in the NBA club to the families who run the Las Vegas Sands casino resort company.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has entered an agreement to sell his majority stake in the NBA club to the families who run the Las Vegas Sands casino resort company. NBC Dallas-Fort Worth reported on Wednesday that Cuban said he would receive $3.5 billion in the deal, which must be approved by NBA team owners to be completed. A statement on Wednesday from the prospective new owners, the families of Miriam Adelson and her son-in-law Patrick Dumont -- president of Sands Corporation, said they hope to complete the purchase by the end of the year. "The Adelson and Dumont families have entered into binding purchase agreements to acquire majority ownership and the right to serve as governor of the Dallas Mavericks," the statement said. "The families are targeting a closing of the transaction by year-end, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions and approval of the NBA Board of Governors." Forbes magazine last month valued the Mavericks seventh of 30 NBA clubs at $4.5 billion. Forbes says Cuban is worth about $6.2 billion. Also Read: Japanese University scraps team for alleged possession of drug Cuban, a passionate basketball fan who often sits courtside at Mavericks games, bought a majority interest in the team in January of 2000 for $285 million. The 65-year-old American reportedly would remain in operational control of the club but not serve as the team's governor for NBA purposes. After missing the playoffs for a decade, the Mavericks made it back in 2001, lost in the NBA Finals to Miami in 2006 and captured their first NBA title in 2011 by beating Miami. They hadn't won another playoff series until last year, when they advanced to the Western Conference final before falling to Golden State. "The Dallas Mavericks are one of the world's most successful and recognizable sports franchises," the families statement said. "The team has won an NBA championship, has a long history of attracting international superstars and has been supported by a dedicated and passionate fan base and leadership group led by Mark Cuban. "The Adelson and Dumont families are honored to have the opportunity to be stewards of this great franchise. "Through our commitment and additional investment in the team, we look forward to partnering with Mark Cuban to build on the team's success and legacy in Dallas and beyond." Doncic third in scoring Adelson, the widow of casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, is top shareholder in the Sands corporation, which operates major casinos in Singapore and Macau. Cuban has said he wants to see a new arena built for the Mavericks as part of a casino, providing the state of Texas legalizes gambling. The Mavericks share third in the NBA Western Conference this season at 11-6. Slovenian star guard Luka Doncic ranked third in the NBA in scoring with 31.1 points a game so far this season. His 64 3-pointers made this season rank second to Golden State's Stephen Curry and six ahead of Dallas teammate Tim Hardaway Jr. "The goal is to win and to have a team that proudly represents the greater DFW area and serves as a strong and valuable member of the local community," the families statement said. "We believe that with this partnership and our commitment to the team, the community and the fans, the future is bright for the Dallas Mavericks."

NBA: Mark Cuban sells majority stake of Dallas Mavericks to Casino tycoon Miriam Adelson

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 33 points and Damian Lillard added 32 as the Milwaukee Bucks beat Miami 131-124 on Tuesday to reach the knockout rounds of the NBA In-Season Tournament. On the final night of group-stage play in the NBA's inaugural version of a World Cup, the Bucks won the East Group B crown at 4-0, taking the top Eastern Conference seed in the fight to reach next month's semi-finals in Las Vegas. "We completed the task," Milwaukee's Khris Middleton said. "To get to Vegas now, we've got to do a little bit more. "We want it. We're hungry for it. It's exciting times for us. We want to go to Vegas so we're happy."

The quarter-finals will find Boston at Indiana and New Orleans at Sacramento on Monday, with New York at Milwaukee and Phoenix at the Los Angeles Lakers next Tuesday. Boston routed Chicago 124-97 to win East Group C and advance while New York, second behind Milwaukee in Group B, beat Charlotte 115-91 and advanced as a wildcard based on superior point differential over Cleveland 42-29.

Sacramento edged Golden State 124-123 to win West Group C, rallying from 24 points down in the second quarter to advance. The Warriors knew they had to win by 12 points to win the group on a point differential tiebreaker and took a 72-55 half-time lead before the Kings, led by 29 points from De'Aaron Fox, rallied late to trim the margin then swipe the triumph.

"We still wanted to win the game, it counts for the regular season, but we knew what the number was," Fox said. Phoenix took a West wildcard spot when Minnesota beat Oklahoma City 106-103 while New Orleans won West Group B when the Dallas Mavericks downed visiting Houston 121-115.

At Miami, the Bucks opened a 15-2 lead, Miami answered with a 16-4 run, then Milwaukee closed the first quarter on a 12-4 spurt for a 31-22 lead. "We started out great, but it's hard," Middleton said. "You're just not going to knock a team down in the first five minutes. They did a great job coming back. We did a great job keeping our composure and finding a way to close this thing out."

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Miami, lacking Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro due to ankle sprains, led 97-93 after three quarters. Middleton, who had 17 points and eight rebounds, hit back-to-back jumpers for a four-point lead and dunks by Brook Lopez and Antetokounmpo settled matters. "Thankfully I was able to hit a couple shots," Middleton said. "I'm just happy we won a tough game."

Antetokounmpo made 11-of-16 from the floor and 10-of-13 from the free-throw line and grabbed 10 rebounds with five assists while Lillard, 9-of-18 from the floor and 10-of-10 from the line, added nine assists. At New York, Julius Randle scored 25 points and grabbed 20 rebounds while Immanuel Quickley had 23 points off the bench to spark the Knicks. Boston needed a lopsided win to advance and got it as Jaylen Brown scored 30 points, grabbed eight rebounds and passed off six assists to lead the hosts over Chicago. Jayson Tatum added 21 points and Al Horford had 16 points, nine rebounds and six assists for the Celtics.

<h2>- Injuries hit Warriors -</h2>

Golden State's Chris Paul went out in the first quarter with lower left leg soreness and Gary Payton II went down with a right calf injury in the third quarter at Sacramento, which had lost two prior meetings with the Warriors this season. Golden State's Draymond Green, back from a five-game ban for putting Minnesota's Rudy Gobert in a headlock, received a technical foul in the fourth quarter for arguing referee calls.

Dallas star Luka Doncic dominated Houston with 41 points, nine rebounds and nine assists while Kyrie Irving added 27 points for the Mavs, keeping the Rockets winless on the road this season. Western Conference overall season leader Minnesota (13-4) hung on to top spot by edging visiting Oklahoma City (11-6).

Anthony Edwards, who left the game with a bruised right hip, led the Timberwolves with 21 points while Gobert added 17 points and 16 rebounds. But Phoenix took the West wildcard on point differential 34-0 over Minnesota.

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 33 points and Damian Lillard added 32 as the Milwaukee Bucks beat Miami 131-124 on Tuesday to reach the knockout rounds of the NBA In-Season Tournament.

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 33 points and Damian Lillard added 32 as the Milwaukee Bucks beat Miami 131-124 on Tuesday to reach the knockout rounds of the NBA In-Season Tournament. On the final night of group-stage play in the NBA's inaugural version of a World Cup, the Bucks won the East Group B crown at 4-0, taking the top Eastern Conference seed in the fight to reach next month's semi-finals in Las Vegas. "We completed the task," Milwaukee's Khris Middleton said. "To get to Vegas now, we've got to do a little bit more. "We want it. We're hungry for it. It's exciting times for us. We want to go to Vegas so we're happy." The quarter-finals will find Boston at Indiana and New Orleans at Sacramento on Monday, with New York at Milwaukee and Phoenix at the Los Angeles Lakers next Tuesday. Boston routed Chicago 124-97 to win East Group C and advance while New York, second behind Milwaukee in Group B, beat Charlotte 115-91 and advanced as a wildcard based on superior point differential over Cleveland 42-29. Sacramento edged Golden State 124-123 to win West Group C, rallying from 24 points down in the second quarter to advance. The Warriors knew they had to win by 12 points to win the group on a point differential tiebreaker and took a 72-55 half-time lead before the Kings, led by 29 points from De'Aaron Fox, rallied late to trim the margin then swipe the triumph. "We still wanted to win the game, it counts for the regular season, but we knew what the number was," Fox said. Phoenix took a West wildcard spot when Minnesota beat Oklahoma City 106-103 while New Orleans won West Group B when the Dallas Mavericks downed visiting Houston 121-115. At Miami, the Bucks opened a 15-2 lead, Miami answered with a 16-4 run, then Milwaukee closed the first quarter on a 12-4 spurt for a 31-22 lead. "We started out great, but it's hard," Middleton said. "You're just not going to knock a team down in the first five minutes. They did a great job coming back. We did a great job keeping our composure and finding a way to close this thing out." Also read: Barcelona, Dortmund, Atletico Madrid and Lazio enter Champions League last-16 Miami, lacking Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro due to ankle sprains, led 97-93 after three quarters. Middleton, who had 17 points and eight rebounds, hit back-to-back jumpers for a four-point lead and dunks by Brook Lopez and Antetokounmpo settled matters. "Thankfully I was able to hit a couple shots," Middleton said. "I'm just happy we won a tough game." Antetokounmpo made 11-of-16 from the floor and 10-of-13 from the free-throw line and grabbed 10 rebounds with five assists while Lillard, 9-of-18 from the floor and 10-of-10 from the line, added nine assists. At New York, Julius Randle scored 25 points and grabbed 20 rebounds while Immanuel Quickley had 23 points off the bench to spark the Knicks. Boston needed a lopsided win to advance and got it as Jaylen Brown scored 30 points, grabbed eight rebounds and passed off six assists to lead the hosts over Chicago. Jayson Tatum added 21 points and Al Horford had 16 points, nine rebounds and six assists for the Celtics. - Injuries hit Warriors - Golden State's Chris Paul went out in the first quarter with lower left leg soreness and Gary Payton II went down with a right calf injury in the third quarter at Sacramento, which had lost two prior meetings with the Warriors this season. Golden State's Draymond Green, back from a five-game ban for putting Minnesota's Rudy Gobert in a headlock, received a technical foul in the fourth quarter for arguing referee calls. Dallas star Luka Doncic dominated Houston with 41 points, nine rebounds and nine assists while Kyrie Irving added 27 points for the Mavs, keeping the Rockets winless on the road this season. Western Conference overall season leader Minnesota (13-4) hung on to top spot by edging visiting Oklahoma City (11-6). Anthony Edwards, who left the game with a bruised right hip, led the Timberwolves with 21 points while Gobert added 17 points and 16 rebounds. But Phoenix took the West wildcard on point differential 34-0 over Minnesota.

Milwaukee Bucks, Sacramento Kings and Boston Celtics move forward in NBA In-Season Tournament

The Milwaukee Bucks erased a 26-point deficit to beat Portland 108-102 on Sunday as Phoenix and Orlando stretched their NBA winning streaks to seven games.

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 33 points and grabbed 16 rebounds for the Bucks. Teammate Damian Lillard added 31 in his first game against his former team and Milwaukee authored the biggest comeback victory of the season so far.

Lillard, who played 11 seasons in Portland until he was traded to Milwaukee in September, admitted it was "a weird feeling" to take the court against former teammates.

"But once we started playing I kind of got over it quick," added Lillard, who added five rebounds and four assists. "I'm just happy we were able to get the win."

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Portland, fueled by 22 points from Jerami Grant and 18 from Malcolm Brogdon, led 68-52 at halftime and pushed their advantage to 26 points early in the third period.

Lillard's three-pointer tied it at 97-97 with less than three minutes remaining. It was tied at 102-102 when Antetokounmpo tipped in the go-ahead basket with 18.5 seconds left to play.

A big block from Antetokounmpo on Brogdon and four free-throws from Lillard sealed it.

"We've been in that situation a few times this season, where our character was tested, our togetherness was tested," Lillard said. "We showed true again."

Phoenix guard Devin Booker starred in New York, drilling a go-ahead three-pointer with 1.7 seconds remaining as the Suns kept their streak going with a 116-113 victory over the Knicks.

Booker scored 28 points and handed out 11 assists for the Suns, who were without superstar Kevin Durant for a second straight game because of a sore right foot.

Jalen Brunson scored 35 points with six rebounds and eight assists for the Knicks, but he came up empty with a desperation three-point attempt that rimmed out as time expired.

Eric Gordon added 25 points and Jordan Goodwin scored 14 off the bench for Phoenix,&nbsp;

In Orlando, Franz Wagner and Cole Anthony scored 30 points apiece to fuel the Magic's 130-117 victory over the Charlotte Hornets.

Paolo Banchero added 23 points and eight assists for the Magic, who out-scored the Hornets 74-60 in the paint and parlayed 18 Charlotte turnovers into 28 points.

Up 61-57 at halftime, the Magic didn't trail in the second half. Anthony scored 17 points in the fourth quarter to help Orlando extend their lead to as many as 16.

Miles Bridges led Charlotte with 23 points and 10 rebounds, but the Hornets ultimately had no answer for a Magic team on its longest winning streak since a nine-win run in the 2010-11 season.

<h2>Celtics down Hawks</h2>

In Boston, Jayson Tatum scored 34 points, Jaylen Brown added 21 to propel the Celtics to a 113-103 victory over the Atlanta Hawks.

The Celtics were without injured Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, but after a lackluster loss to the Magic on Friday the short-handed hosts hustled for the victory.

Boston pulled down a season-high 58 rebounds, including 18 on the offensive glass.

Brown's rebound of teammate Derrick White's miss set Brown up for the highlight of the night -- a thunderous dunk over Atlanta's Clint Capela that brought the TD Garden fans to their feet.

Trae Young led the Hawks with 33 points and De'Andre Hunter added 24.

But the Celtics never trailed as they improved their league-best record to 13-4.

Brown said holding the high-scoring Hawks to 103 points was key.

"If you play defense and hold a team to a reasonable amount (of points) it's always going to give you a chance to win," he said. "But also I think we won a lot of the hustle plays."

The Milwaukee Bucks erased a 26-point deficit to beat Portland 108-102 on Sunday as Phoenix and Orlando stretched their NBA winning streaks to seven games. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 33 points and grabbed 16 rebounds for the Bucks.

The Milwaukee Bucks erased a 26-point deficit to beat Portland 108-102 on Sunday as Phoenix and Orlando stretched their NBA winning streaks to seven games. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 33 points and grabbed 16 rebounds for the Bucks. Teammate Damian Lillard added 31 in his first game against his former team and Milwaukee authored the biggest comeback victory of the season so far. Lillard, who played 11 seasons in Portland until he was traded to Milwaukee in September, admitted it was "a weird feeling" to take the court against former teammates. "But once we started playing I kind of got over it quick," added Lillard, who added five rebounds and four assists. "I'm just happy we were able to get the win." Also Read: Former England and Barcelona manager Terry Venables dies at 80 due to illness Portland, fueled by 22 points from Jerami Grant and 18 from Malcolm Brogdon, led 68-52 at halftime and pushed their advantage to 26 points early in the third period. Lillard's three-pointer tied it at 97-97 with less than three minutes remaining. It was tied at 102-102 when Antetokounmpo tipped in the go-ahead basket with 18.5 seconds left to play. A big block from Antetokounmpo on Brogdon and four free-throws from Lillard sealed it. "We've been in that situation a few times this season, where our character was tested, our togetherness was tested," Lillard said. "We showed true again." Phoenix guard Devin Booker starred in New York, drilling a go-ahead three-pointer with 1.7 seconds remaining as the Suns kept their streak going with a 116-113 victory over the Knicks. Booker scored 28 points and handed out 11 assists for the Suns, who were without superstar Kevin Durant for a second straight game because of a sore right foot. Jalen Brunson scored 35 points with six rebounds and eight assists for the Knicks, but he came up empty with a desperation three-point attempt that rimmed out as time expired. Eric Gordon added 25 points and Jordan Goodwin scored 14 off the bench for Phoenix, In Orlando, Franz Wagner and Cole Anthony scored 30 points apiece to fuel the Magic's 130-117 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. Paolo Banchero added 23 points and eight assists for the Magic, who out-scored the Hornets 74-60 in the paint and parlayed 18 Charlotte turnovers into 28 points. Up 61-57 at halftime, the Magic didn't trail in the second half. Anthony scored 17 points in the fourth quarter to help Orlando extend their lead to as many as 16. Miles Bridges led Charlotte with 23 points and 10 rebounds, but the Hornets ultimately had no answer for a Magic team on its longest winning streak since a nine-win run in the 2010-11 season. Celtics down Hawks In Boston, Jayson Tatum scored 34 points, Jaylen Brown added 21 to propel the Celtics to a 113-103 victory over the Atlanta Hawks. The Celtics were without injured Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, but after a lackluster loss to the Magic on Friday the short-handed hosts hustled for the victory. Boston pulled down a season-high 58 rebounds, including 18 on the offensive glass. Brown's rebound of teammate Derrick White's miss set Brown up for the highlight of the night -- a thunderous dunk over Atlanta's Clint Capela that brought the TD Garden fans to their feet. Trae Young led the Hawks with 33 points and De'Andre Hunter added 24. But the Celtics never trailed as they improved their league-best record to 13-4. Brown said holding the high-scoring Hawks to 103 points was key. "If you play defense and hold a team to a reasonable amount (of points) it's always going to give you a chance to win," he said. "But also I think we won a lot of the hustle plays."

Milwaukee Bucks come from 26-point behind to beat Portland Trail Blazers

Los Angeles big man Anthony Davis scored 23 of his season-high 32 points in the second half on Saturday as the Lakers earned a third straight NBA road win with a hard-fought 121-115 victory over the Cavaliers in Cleveland.

Davis added 13 rebounds and three blocked shots, helping the Lakers overcome a slow shooting night from superstar LeBron James against his former club, which honored the league's all-time leading scorer with a video tribute in the first quarter.

James connected on just eight of 23 shots -- one of nine from three-point range -- on the way to 22 points in a nip-and-tuck game that featured 16 lead changes and never saw either team push its lead to double digits.

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The Cavs' 40-point first quarter saw them up by just five, and they led 71-70 at halftime.

Davis's layup -- after he rebounded a James miss, put the Lakers up 111-103 with 3:48 to play.

The Cavaliers cut the deficit to one with less than two minutes remaining, but James drove for a layup, came up with a steal and threw down a dunk and the Lakers held on.

"We just had to impose our will in the defensive end," Davis said, acknowledging the Lakers benefitted from the second-half absence of Cleveland's Darius Garland, who departed early with a neck injury.

But he hailed a "total team win" after seven of the eight Lakers players who took the court scored in double figures.

Donovan Mitchell, back after missing four games with a hamstring injury, finished with 22 points and Jarrett Allen added 21 points and 14 rebounds for the Cavs.

In Oklahoma City, Philadelphia's NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid scored 35 points and drained six free throws in the final 9.8 seconds to help the 76ers hold off the Thunder 127-123.

Embiid came up just shy of his first triple-double of the season, adding 11 rebounds and nine assists to go with four blocked shots and a steal to help the Sixers end the Thunder's six-game winning streak.

Up by nine with 49 seconds remaining, the Sixers saw their lead cut to 121-118 on rookie center Chet Holmgren's dunk with 11.1 seconds to go.

Embiid made two free throws, and he responded again at the line after Holmgren twice cut the deficit to two points.

"Obviously he put the game away," Sixers coach Nick Nurse said of Embiid, but he added that in a league where late charges have become the norm, the Sixers have to finish better.

"Great performance, a lot of good stuff, et cetera," he said. "But as everybody's seeing around the league, there's a lot of wild finishes in the games. We've got to make sure we stay locked in."

<h2>Holmgren impresses</h2>

Tyrese Maxey scored 28 points and eight rebounds, and Tobias Harris added 16 points for Philadelphia.

Holmgren delivered another impressive performance, leading the Thunder with 33 points to go with six rebounds and three blocked shots.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 for the Thunder and guard Josh Giddey finished with 10 points seven rebounds and eight assists.

Giddey started despite an investigation by the NBA into an accusation that surfaced on social media that he had an improper relationship with an underage girl.

The 21-year-old Australian player has declined to comment on the matter, while Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said Friday that it was now "a league matter."

In other games, the Brooklyn Nets snapped a three-game losing streak with a 112-97 victory over the short-handed Miami Heat.

Mikal Bridges scored 24 points and Cam Johnson added 19 points and 10 rebounds for the Nets, who had all five starters score in double figures.

Caleb Martin scored 22 off the bench to lead Miami and rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. scored 18 for the Heat, who played without Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo one day after surrendering a 21-point lead in a loss to the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

Los Angeles big man Anthony Davis scored 23 of his season-high 32 points in the second half on Saturday as the Lakers earned a third straight NBA road win with a hard-fought 121-115 victory over the Cavaliers in Cleveland.

Los Angeles big man Anthony Davis scored 23 of his season-high 32 points in the second half on Saturday as the Lakers earned a third straight NBA road win with a hard-fought 121-115 victory over the Cavaliers in Cleveland. Davis added 13 rebounds and three blocked shots, helping the Lakers overcome a slow shooting night from superstar LeBron James against his former club, which honored the league's all-time leading scorer with a video tribute in the first quarter. James connected on just eight of 23 shots -- one of nine from three-point range -- on the way to 22 points in a nip-and-tuck game that featured 16 lead changes and never saw either team push its lead to double digits. Also Read: BCCI inclined towards appointing new India coach despite intense talks with Rahul Dravid The Cavs' 40-point first quarter saw them up by just five, and they led 71-70 at halftime. Davis's layup -- after he rebounded a James miss, put the Lakers up 111-103 with 3:48 to play. The Cavaliers cut the deficit to one with less than two minutes remaining, but James drove for a layup, came up with a steal and threw down a dunk and the Lakers held on. "We just had to impose our will in the defensive end," Davis said, acknowledging the Lakers benefitted from the second-half absence of Cleveland's Darius Garland, who departed early with a neck injury. But he hailed a "total team win" after seven of the eight Lakers players who took the court scored in double figures. Donovan Mitchell, back after missing four games with a hamstring injury, finished with 22 points and Jarrett Allen added 21 points and 14 rebounds for the Cavs. In Oklahoma City, Philadelphia's NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid scored 35 points and drained six free throws in the final 9.8 seconds to help the 76ers hold off the Thunder 127-123. Embiid came up just shy of his first triple-double of the season, adding 11 rebounds and nine assists to go with four blocked shots and a steal to help the Sixers end the Thunder's six-game winning streak. Up by nine with 49 seconds remaining, the Sixers saw their lead cut to 121-118 on rookie center Chet Holmgren's dunk with 11.1 seconds to go. Embiid made two free throws, and he responded again at the line after Holmgren twice cut the deficit to two points. "Obviously he put the game away," Sixers coach Nick Nurse said of Embiid, but he added that in a league where late charges have become the norm, the Sixers have to finish better. "Great performance, a lot of good stuff, et cetera," he said. "But as everybody's seeing around the league, there's a lot of wild finishes in the games. We've got to make sure we stay locked in." Holmgren impresses Tyrese Maxey scored 28 points and eight rebounds, and Tobias Harris added 16 points for Philadelphia. Holmgren delivered another impressive performance, leading the Thunder with 33 points to go with six rebounds and three blocked shots. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 for the Thunder and guard Josh Giddey finished with 10 points seven rebounds and eight assists. Giddey started despite an investigation by the NBA into an accusation that surfaced on social media that he had an improper relationship with an underage girl. The 21-year-old Australian player has declined to comment on the matter, while Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said Friday that it was now "a league matter." In other games, the Brooklyn Nets snapped a three-game losing streak with a 112-97 victory over the short-handed Miami Heat. Mikal Bridges scored 24 points and Cam Johnson added 19 points and 10 rebounds for the Nets, who had all five starters score in double figures. Caleb Martin scored 22 off the bench to lead Miami and rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. scored 18 for the Heat, who played without Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo one day after surrendering a 21-point lead in a loss to the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

Lakers beat Cavaliers for third straight win on road; 76ers hold off Oklahoma City Thunder

The Orlando Magic knocked off another marquee foe on Friday, beating the Boston Celtics 113-96 to boost their bid to reach the knockout stage of the NBA's new in-season tournament.

Two days after beating the reigning champion Denver Nuggets, the Magic bullied the league-leading Celtics in the second half to push their winning streak to six games.

Moritz Wagner scored 27 points off the bench to lead the Magic and Paolo Banchero added 23 with seven rebounds.

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Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 26 points and Jaylen Brown chipped in 18 -- 12 of them in the first quarter.

Brown connected on just two of 17 shots in the last three quarters as the Magic clamped down defensively to hand the Celtics their biggest defeat of the season.

"That's what we take pride in," Banchero said of the Magic's defensive effort. "That's our calling card.

"We just come into every game focused on what we've got to do to stop the team in front of us (and) we did a good job tonight."

Boston got off to a hot start and led by 11 after one quarter. They were up by eight at halftime and by 12 early in the third when Orlando unleashed a 17-0 scoring run to seize a 67-62 lead.

Boston twice managed to regain the lead in the third quarter, but the Magic opened the fourth on a 10-0 run -- capped by Moritz Wagner's running layup -- and rolled from there.

Wagner scored 13 points in the final frame and out-scored the Celtics 65-40 in the second half.

The result saw the Magic conclude group play in the new tournament at 3-1. The Celtics fell to 2-1, level with the Brooklyn Nets and each with a game remaining.

The six group winners and two wild card teams will advance to the knockout stage of the tournament that concludes with semi-finals and the final in Las Vegas in December.

Banchero said the new Cup-style competition, designed to lend interest to early-season games, has been "huge."

"I'm glad we got the win," he said. "Hopefully we'll be in good position to move on."

The Phoenix Suns kept alive their bid to advance as a wild card in the West with a 110-89 victory over the Grizzlies in Memphis.

"Hopefully that's enough," said Devin Booker, who scored 40 points to help the Suns overcome the absence of superstar Kevin Durant, who missed his first game of the season with a sore right foot.

"You can't make up for what Kevin Durant does," Booker said. "So it takes multiple efforts. It takes a little bit more from everybody on both ends of the court."

Eric Gordon added 20 points, Grayson Allen and Udoka Azubuike had 14 apiece and Josef Nurkic scored six points and pulled down 10 rebounds for the Suns, who pushed their NBA winning streak to six games.

The Orlando Magic knocked off another marquee foe on Friday, beating the Boston Celtics 113-96 to boost their bid to reach the knockout stage of the NBA's new in-season tournament.

The Orlando Magic knocked off another marquee foe on Friday, beating the Boston Celtics 113-96 to boost their bid to reach the knockout stage of the NBA's new in-season tournament. Two days after beating the reigning champion Denver Nuggets, the Magic bullied the league-leading Celtics in the second half to push their winning streak to six games. Moritz Wagner scored 27 points off the bench to lead the Magic and Paolo Banchero added 23 with seven rebounds. Also Read: Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim announces shock international retirement Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 26 points and Jaylen Brown chipped in 18 -- 12 of them in the first quarter. Brown connected on just two of 17 shots in the last three quarters as the Magic clamped down defensively to hand the Celtics their biggest defeat of the season. "That's what we take pride in," Banchero said of the Magic's defensive effort. "That's our calling card. "We just come into every game focused on what we've got to do to stop the team in front of us (and) we did a good job tonight." Boston got off to a hot start and led by 11 after one quarter. They were up by eight at halftime and by 12 early in the third when Orlando unleashed a 17-0 scoring run to seize a 67-62 lead. Boston twice managed to regain the lead in the third quarter, but the Magic opened the fourth on a 10-0 run -- capped by Moritz Wagner's running layup -- and rolled from there. Wagner scored 13 points in the final frame and out-scored the Celtics 65-40 in the second half. The result saw the Magic conclude group play in the new tournament at 3-1. The Celtics fell to 2-1, level with the Brooklyn Nets and each with a game remaining. The six group winners and two wild card teams will advance to the knockout stage of the tournament that concludes with semi-finals and the final in Las Vegas in December. Banchero said the new Cup-style competition, designed to lend interest to early-season games, has been "huge." "I'm glad we got the win," he said. "Hopefully we'll be in good position to move on." The Phoenix Suns kept alive their bid to advance as a wild card in the West with a 110-89 victory over the Grizzlies in Memphis. "Hopefully that's enough," said Devin Booker, who scored 40 points to help the Suns overcome the absence of superstar Kevin Durant, who missed his first game of the season with a sore right foot. "You can't make up for what Kevin Durant does," Booker said. "So it takes multiple efforts. It takes a little bit more from everybody on both ends of the court." Eric Gordon added 20 points, Grayson Allen and Udoka Azubuike had 14 apiece and Josef Nurkic scored six points and pulled down 10 rebounds for the Suns, who pushed their NBA winning streak to six games.

Orlando Magic stay alive in-season tournament with victory over Boston Celtics

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has started an investigation into allegations of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey's relationship with a minor girl. The news was confirmed by a league spokesperson on Friday, November 24. The allegations were made last week after multiple social media posts surfaced online about the matter.

The posts include videos and photos of Giddey with the girl who appears to be a high school student in Southern California. In one of the photo posts, Giddey was seen standing behind the girl without t-shirt in front of a doorway. Another such post shows the basketball player hugging the girl.

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In one of the videos that circulated online, Giddey appeared to record a video for the girl's brother. The Instagram and TikTok account of the girl have since gone private. The anonymous social media user, who had alleged about the girl being junior in one of the posts with Giddey, has deleted the post since and deactivated the account.

The 21-year-old player, meanwhile, declined to comment about the issue on Friday, November 24 after the practice and said: "I understand the question obviously, but there's no further comment right now."&nbsp;

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault also took the same path and said: "Personal matter, and I have no comment on it." 
 
"And that'll be my comment on anything related,"&nbsp;Daigneault said to reporters.

Giddey was Round 1 Pick 6 in 2021 NBA draft by the Thunder and has since played 145 games in the league. He averages 14.6 points per game since his debut to go with 7.6 rebounds and 6.1 assists.

2022-23 season was his best when he played in 76 games and managed 16.6 points per game to go with 7.9 rebounds and 6.2 assists. In the ongoing season, Giddey has played in 15 games so far, averaging 12.3 points per game alongside 5.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has started an investigation into allegations of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey's relationship with a minor girl.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has started an investigation into allegations of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey's relationship with a minor girl. The news was confirmed by a league spokesperson on Friday, November 24. The allegations were made last week after multiple social media posts surfaced online about the matter. The posts include videos and photos of Giddey with the girl who appears to be a high school student in Southern California. In one of the photo posts, Giddey was seen standing behind the girl without t-shirt in front of a doorway. Another such post shows the basketball player hugging the girl. Also Watch: Jevon Holland scores pick-six for Miami Dolphins on New York Jets' Hail Mary attempt In one of the videos that circulated online, Giddey appeared to record a video for the girl's brother. The Instagram and TikTok account of the girl have since gone private. The anonymous social media user, who had alleged about the girl being junior in one of the posts with Giddey, has deleted the post since and deactivated the account. The 21-year-old player, meanwhile, declined to comment about the issue on Friday, November 24 after the practice and said: "I understand the question obviously, but there's no further comment right now." Thunder coach Mark Daigneault also took the same path and said: "Personal matter, and I have no comment on it." "And that'll be my comment on anything related," Daigneault said to reporters. Giddey was Round 1 Pick 6 in 2021 NBA draft by the Thunder and has since played 145 games in the league. He averages 14.6 points per game since his debut to go with 7.6 rebounds and 6.1 assists. 2022-23 season was his best when he played in 76 games and managed 16.6 points per game to go with 7.9 rebounds and 6.2 assists. In the ongoing season, Giddey has played in 15 games so far, averaging 12.3 points per game alongside 5.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists.

Josh Giddey, OKC guard, under investigation by league for alleged relationship with minor

Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis led a second-half fightback as the Boston Celtics overpowered the New York Knicks 114-98 in the NBA on Monday.

Tatum finished with 35 points – including 17 in the fourth quarter – while Porzingis added 21 to fire the Celtics to their eighth win of the season.

"First half, they were scoring at will, but second half we started making stops," Tatum said after the Celtics bagged their third straight victory.&nbsp;

"We've had three games in four days, now we go out on the road for a week and play some good teams – hopefully we can keep it going," Tatum added.

New York caused Boston problems in the first half, edging into an eight-point lead in the second quarter with Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle both influential at Boston's TD Garden.

But Jaylen Brown drained a superb three-pointer from 25 feet on the stroke of half-time to cut the Knicks' lead to just one point at 53-52 heading into the break.

That parting shot from Brown was to herald a third quarter rally from Boston that ultimately took the game away from the Knicks, who had been chasing a fourth straight victory.

Porzingis led the third quarter onslaught with 11 points from 3-of-3 shooting, including two from outside the arc, along with 3-of-3 from the free throw line.

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Tatum then turned it on in the fourth quarter with his 17-point display as the Celtics outscored the Knicks 30-22 in the final frame to complete victory.

Tatum finished with five three-pointers throughout the game from 13-of-23 shooting, with six rebounds and seven assists. Porzingis's 21-point haul included three from three-point range, while Brown had 22 points, five rebounds and six assists.

Brunson led the Knicks scorers with 26 points while Randle finished with 25. Josh Hart added 16 points with Quentin Grimes chipping in 12 points.

"I like that we're finding different ways to win," Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said afterward. "We have to understand that it's not always going to be easy, but it's how we respond that's important."

The Celtics improved to 8-2 to remain second in the Eastern Conference behind the Philadelphia 76ers (8-1).

Elsewhere Monday, the Toronto Raptors pulled off a remarkable comeback to snatch victory over the Washington Wizards, overturning a 23-point second-half deficit to win 111-107.

The Wizards looked to be cruising to victory after roaring into a 64-45 half-time lead against a misfiring Toronto offense. But the Raptors flipped the script after half-time, outscoring Washington 66-43 in the final two quarters to take the win.

Pascal Siakam inspired the Toronto fightback with 39 points, while Scottie Barnes added 19 and Jakob Poeltl 13. Kyle Kuzma led Washington's scoring with 34 points.

In Milwaukee, 35 points from Giannis Antetokounmpo helped the Bucks bounce back from consecutive defeats on the road to clinch a 118-109 win over the Chicago Bulls.

Milwaukee jumped on Chicago early, opening up a 17-point lead at the end of the first quarter before the Bulls rallied in the second and third quarters.

Chicago went briefly in front in the third but Milwaukee pulled clear to open up a double-digit lead in the fourth before coasting to victory.

Bobby Portis supported Antetokounmpo with 19 points from the bench while Khris Middleton added 13 and Damian Lillard 12.

Nikola Vucevic led the Chicago scoring with 26 points.

Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis led a second-half fightback as the Boston Celtics overpowered the New York Knicks 114-98 in the NBA on Monday. Tatum finished with 35 points – including 17 in the fourth quarter – while Porzingis added 21 to fire the Celtics to their eighth win of the season.

Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis led a second-half fightback as the Boston Celtics overpowered the New York Knicks 114-98 in the NBA on Monday. Tatum finished with 35 points – including 17 in the fourth quarter – while Porzingis added 21 to fire the Celtics to their eighth win of the season. "First half, they were scoring at will, but second half we started making stops," Tatum said after the Celtics bagged their third straight victory. "We've had three games in four days, now we go out on the road for a week and play some good teams – hopefully we can keep it going," Tatum added. New York caused Boston problems in the first half, edging into an eight-point lead in the second quarter with Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle both influential at Boston's TD Garden. But Jaylen Brown drained a superb three-pointer from 25 feet on the stroke of half-time to cut the Knicks' lead to just one point at 53-52 heading into the break. That parting shot from Brown was to herald a third quarter rally from Boston that ultimately took the game away from the Knicks, who had been chasing a fourth straight victory. Porzingis led the third quarter onslaught with 11 points from 3-of-3 shooting, including two from outside the arc, along with 3-of-3 from the free throw line. ALSO READ | Bayern Munich star Thomas Muller shows support for Indian team at World Cup; wears jersey & tags Virat Kohli Tatum then turned it on in the fourth quarter with his 17-point display as the Celtics outscored the Knicks 30-22 in the final frame to complete victory. Tatum finished with five three-pointers throughout the game from 13-of-23 shooting, with six rebounds and seven assists. Porzingis's 21-point haul included three from three-point range, while Brown had 22 points, five rebounds and six assists. Brunson led the Knicks scorers with 26 points while Randle finished with 25. Josh Hart added 16 points with Quentin Grimes chipping in 12 points. "I like that we're finding different ways to win," Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said afterward. "We have to understand that it's not always going to be easy, but it's how we respond that's important." The Celtics improved to 8-2 to remain second in the Eastern Conference behind the Philadelphia 76ers (8-1). Elsewhere Monday, the Toronto Raptors pulled off a remarkable comeback to snatch victory over the Washington Wizards, overturning a 23-point second-half deficit to win 111-107. The Wizards looked to be cruising to victory after roaring into a 64-45 half-time lead against a misfiring Toronto offense. But the Raptors flipped the script after half-time, outscoring Washington 66-43 in the final two quarters to take the win. Pascal Siakam inspired the Toronto fightback with 39 points, while Scottie Barnes added 19 and Jakob Poeltl 13. Kyle Kuzma led Washington's scoring with 34 points. In Milwaukee, 35 points from Giannis Antetokounmpo helped the Bucks bounce back from consecutive defeats on the road to clinch a 118-109 win over the Chicago Bulls. Milwaukee jumped on Chicago early, opening up a 17-point lead at the end of the first quarter before the Bulls rallied in the second and third quarters. Chicago went briefly in front in the third but Milwaukee pulled clear to open up a double-digit lead in the fourth before coasting to victory. Bobby Portis supported Antetokounmpo with 19 points from the bench while Khris Middleton added 13 and Damian Lillard 12. Nikola Vucevic led the Chicago scoring with 26 points.

NBA: Jayson Tatum helps Boston Celtics rally past New York Knicks, Bucks pip Bulls

Golden State star Stephen Curry drained the winning layup with two-tenths of a second remaining Friday as the Warriors opened the NBA's new in-season tournament with a dramatic 141-139 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

In a game featuring 23 lead changes, it was tied at 139-139 when Curry drove to the basket and rose to bank in a shot.

But teammate Draymond Green, whose hand was near the rim, was called for offensive goaltending -- only for the call to be overturned to allow the Warriors to celebrate the win.

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Curry finished with a game-high 30 points, connecting on five of 10 three-pointers and nine of 15 overall.

Green scored 15 points with five rebounds and Chris Paul handed out 13 assists.

Lu Dort scored 29 points and Chet Holmgren added 24 for Oklahoma City, who were without leading scorer Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, sidelined by a knee injury.

Even without him, the Thunder weren't about to go quietly. The Warriors led by two at halftime, but Dort scored 11 points early in the third to put Oklahoma City up by five before the Warriors battled back, knotting the score at 106-106 heading into the fourth.

"They took it to us the whole game," said Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who admitted he feared the worst when officials reviewed the interference call on Green.

From courtside, Kerr said, Curry's shot looked good.

"When I saw the replay on the scoreboard, it looked like Draymond touched the rim," Kerr said. "And I guess it's just a determination of did it affect the shot.

"I was sort of expecting them to overturn (Curry's basket), but obviously they allowed it and we escaped."

It was among the most dramatic moments on the first night of the new Cup-style tournament that commissioner Adam Silver hopes will fire players' competitive instincts and give added interest to games early in the season.

The 30 clubs were drawn into six groups of five, and each team will play a total of four tournament games this month to decide six group winners and two wildcard qualifiers for the quarter-finals.

All games in the new tournament count in the regular season standings except for the final on December 9 in Las Vegas.

Reigning NBA champions Denver took the opportunity to hand the Dallas Mavericks their first defeat of the season, 125-114.

Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic scored 33 points on 14-of-16 shooting, adding 14 rebounds and nine assists as the Nuggets bounced back from their lone defeat so far this season.

Denver scored 20 second-chance points, dominating in the paint to deny a Mavs team led by 34 points from Luka Doncic. Kyrie Irving, back after missing two games, scored 22 for Dallas.

The first win of the new competition went to the Indiana Pacers, who were fueled by 27 points from Myles Turner in a 121-116 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Tyrese Haliburton added 18 points and 13 assists for the Pacers, who led by as many as 18 but had to claw back after the Cavs, led by 38 points and nine assists from Donovan Mitchell, grabbed a four-point lead midway through the fourth quarter.

<h2>Bucks hold off Knicks</h2>

It was close in Chicago, where Dorian Finney-Smith scored 21 points and Mikal Bridges added 20 for the Brooklyn Nets in a 109-107 victory over the Bulls.

In Portland, the Trail Blazers edged the Memphis Grizzles 115-113 in overtime.

Bridges's dunk with 1:13 remaining gave the Nets a 108-104 lead. Zach Lavine answered with a floater but then missed two shots, and with the Nets up 109-107, LaVine was off-target again as time expired.

"We've got a lot of grit -- and we want to win," Bridges said of the Nets' determined fourth-quarter effort.

In Milwaukee, Damian Lillard scored 15 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter, draining the go-ahead three-pointer with 1:03 to play as the Bucks held off the New York Knicks 110-105.

Milwaukee withstood 45 points from Jalen Brunson, whose three-pointer with 1:10 remaining put the Knicks up for the first time since the second quarter, 103-101.

Lillard drained a three-pointer and converted a three-point play to rebuild the Bucks' lead, and two big blocks from Brook Lopez -- who had eight -- helped the Bucks maintain the edge.

Giannis Antetokounmpo added 22 points, eight rebounds and six assists for the Bucks, who had six players score in double figures.

Golden State star Stephen Curry drained the winning layup with two-tenths of a second remaining Friday as the Warriors opened the NBA's new in-season tournament with a dramatic 141-139 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Golden State star Stephen Curry drained the winning layup with two-tenths of a second remaining Friday as the Warriors opened the NBA's new in-season tournament with a dramatic 141-139 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a game featuring 23 lead changes, it was tied at 139-139 when Curry drove to the basket and rose to bank in a shot. But teammate Draymond Green, whose hand was near the rim, was called for offensive goaltending -- only for the call to be overturned to allow the Warriors to celebrate the win. Also Read: Bangladesh cancel training session ahead of Sri Lanka clash due to poor AQI in Delhi Curry finished with a game-high 30 points, connecting on five of 10 three-pointers and nine of 15 overall. Green scored 15 points with five rebounds and Chris Paul handed out 13 assists. Lu Dort scored 29 points and Chet Holmgren added 24 for Oklahoma City, who were without leading scorer Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, sidelined by a knee injury. Even without him, the Thunder weren't about to go quietly. The Warriors led by two at halftime, but Dort scored 11 points early in the third to put Oklahoma City up by five before the Warriors battled back, knotting the score at 106-106 heading into the fourth. "They took it to us the whole game," said Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who admitted he feared the worst when officials reviewed the interference call on Green. From courtside, Kerr said, Curry's shot looked good. "When I saw the replay on the scoreboard, it looked like Draymond touched the rim," Kerr said. "And I guess it's just a determination of did it affect the shot. "I was sort of expecting them to overturn (Curry's basket), but obviously they allowed it and we escaped." It was among the most dramatic moments on the first night of the new Cup-style tournament that commissioner Adam Silver hopes will fire players' competitive instincts and give added interest to games early in the season. The 30 clubs were drawn into six groups of five, and each team will play a total of four tournament games this month to decide six group winners and two wildcard qualifiers for the quarter-finals. All games in the new tournament count in the regular season standings except for the final on December 9 in Las Vegas. Reigning NBA champions Denver took the opportunity to hand the Dallas Mavericks their first defeat of the season, 125-114. Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic scored 33 points on 14-of-16 shooting, adding 14 rebounds and nine assists as the Nuggets bounced back from their lone defeat so far this season. Denver scored 20 second-chance points, dominating in the paint to deny a Mavs team led by 34 points from Luka Doncic. Kyrie Irving, back after missing two games, scored 22 for Dallas. The first win of the new competition went to the Indiana Pacers, who were fueled by 27 points from Myles Turner in a 121-116 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Tyrese Haliburton added 18 points and 13 assists for the Pacers, who led by as many as 18 but had to claw back after the Cavs, led by 38 points and nine assists from Donovan Mitchell, grabbed a four-point lead midway through the fourth quarter. Bucks hold off Knicks It was close in Chicago, where Dorian Finney-Smith scored 21 points and Mikal Bridges added 20 for the Brooklyn Nets in a 109-107 victory over the Bulls. In Portland, the Trail Blazers edged the Memphis Grizzles 115-113 in overtime. Bridges's dunk with 1:13 remaining gave the Nets a 108-104 lead. Zach Lavine answered with a floater but then missed two shots, and with the Nets up 109-107, LaVine was off-target again as time expired. "We've got a lot of grit -- and we want to win," Bridges said of the Nets' determined fourth-quarter effort. In Milwaukee, Damian Lillard scored 15 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter, draining the go-ahead three-pointer with 1:03 to play as the Bucks held off the New York Knicks 110-105. Milwaukee withstood 45 points from Jalen Brunson, whose three-pointer with 1:10 remaining put the Knicks up for the first time since the second quarter, 103-101. Lillard drained a three-pointer and converted a three-point play to rebuild the Bucks' lead, and two big blocks from Brook Lopez -- who had eight -- helped the Bucks maintain the edge. Giannis Antetokounmpo added 22 points, eight rebounds and six assists for the Bucks, who had six players score in double figures.

Golden State Warriors start off in-season tournament with dramatic win over Thunder

Joel Embiid scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Philadelphia on Thursday to a 114-99 victory over the Toronto Raptors in the 76ers' first NBA game since trading James Harden.

Kelly Oubre Jr. and Tobias Harris added 23 points apiece and Tyrese Maxey had 18 for the 76ers, who notched a third straight victory and improved to 3-1 in a young season that had so far been overshadowed by&nbsp;Harden's trade demand.

Maxey insisted that Harden's professionalism meant there were no distractions for a team adjusting to new coach Nick Nurse.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-bayern-munich-defender-matthijs-de-ligt-sidelined-with-knee-injury-654455">Bayern Munich defender Matthijs De Ligt sidelined with knee injury</a>

"Everybody was really focused on trying to get better," Maxey said of pre-season preparations. "This is Coach Nurse's first year, so we were trying to learn schemes, learn how he thinks... there wasn't much of a distraction at all."

Nurse said before the game that from a competitive standpoint Harden's trade to the Los Angeles Clippers "would have been better a month ago."

Of the new arrivals in the deal -- Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, KJ Martin and Marcus Morris -- only Covington and Martin entered the game -- in the final minutes.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Embiid made just eight of 22 shots from the floor but connected on 12 of 13 from the free-throw line and handed out seven assists.

Oubre started in place of PJ Tucker -- who was part of the Harden trade -- and connected on five of six three-point attempts.

"He's got a high compete level," Nurse said of Oubre, who scored 10 points in the third quarter and drained a three-pointer in the fourth that helped halt a Raptors rally bid.

"He's competing at both ends ... when we kind of needed a little boost here and there he made some plays to kind of keep the momentum rolling our way or turning back our way."

Thursday's other games included another clash between the San Antonio Spurs and the Suns in Phoenix -- two days after Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs rallied for a 115-114 triumph there.

The Suns had led by 20 points in the third quarter before the Spurs out-scored them 33-19 in the final frame to secure the victory, with French prodigy Wembanyama, the top pick in the NBA draft in June, playing a crucial role in the comeback.

Joel Embiid scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Philadelphia on Thursday to a 114-99 victory over the Toronto Raptors in the 76ers' first NBA game since trading James Harden.

Joel Embiid scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Philadelphia on Thursday to a 114-99 victory over the Toronto Raptors in the 76ers' first NBA game since trading James Harden. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Tobias Harris added 23 points apiece and Tyrese Maxey had 18 for the 76ers, who notched a third straight victory and improved to 3-1 in a young season that had so far been overshadowed by Harden's trade demand. Maxey insisted that Harden's professionalism meant there were no distractions for a team adjusting to new coach Nick Nurse. Also Read: Bayern Munich defender Matthijs De Ligt sidelined with knee injury "Everybody was really focused on trying to get better," Maxey said of pre-season preparations. "This is Coach Nurse's first year, so we were trying to learn schemes, learn how he thinks... there wasn't much of a distraction at all." Nurse said before the game that from a competitive standpoint Harden's trade to the Los Angeles Clippers "would have been better a month ago." Of the new arrivals in the deal -- Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, KJ Martin and Marcus Morris -- only Covington and Martin entered the game -- in the final minutes. Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Embiid made just eight of 22 shots from the floor but connected on 12 of 13 from the free-throw line and handed out seven assists. Oubre started in place of PJ Tucker -- who was part of the Harden trade -- and connected on five of six three-point attempts. "He's got a high compete level," Nurse said of Oubre, who scored 10 points in the third quarter and drained a three-pointer in the fourth that helped halt a Raptors rally bid. "He's competing at both ends ... when we kind of needed a little boost here and there he made some plays to kind of keep the momentum rolling our way or turning back our way." Thursday's other games included another clash between the San Antonio Spurs and the Suns in Phoenix -- two days after Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs rallied for a 115-114 triumph there. The Suns had led by 20 points in the third quarter before the Spurs out-scored them 33-19 in the final frame to secure the victory, with French prodigy Wembanyama, the top pick in the NBA draft in June, playing a crucial role in the comeback.

NBA: 76rers beat Toronto Raptor in first game since James Harden trade

Former NBA Most Valuable Player James Harden will join the Los Angeles Clippers from the Philadelphia 76ers as part of a blockbuster trade involving seven players and multiple draft picks, US media reported on Tuesday.

Harden, a 10-time All-Star who has won three NBA scoring titles, had yet to play for Philadelphia this season after requesting a move in June and then voicing his frustration publicly when trade talks fell through. &nbsp;

According to reports, the deal will send Harden, P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrusev to the Clippers in exchange for Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, Nicolas Batum and KJ Martin.

The 76ers will also receive a raft of draft picks which is expected to included a 2028 first-round selection.

Harden, 34, will team up with Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Russell Westbrook in Los Angeles. Harden played with Westbrook in Oklahoma City in his first three NBA seasons and briefly reunited with the 2017 MVP in Houston.

The trade ends the standoff between Harden and the 76ers, who are looking to bring in another elite guard to partner with reigning MVP Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-fireworks-masks-and-cake-cab-planning-to-celebrate-virat-kohlis-bday-with-a-grand-show-653477">World Cup 2023: Fireworks, masks and cake - CAB planning to celebrate Virat Kohli's b'day with a grand show</a>

Harden had been at odds with 76ers team president Daryl Morey over wanting a long-term contract.

After opting into a one-year deal with the expectation of being traded, no deal for Harden materialised, leaving him calling Morey a liar and saying the ruptured relationship could never be mended.

Philadelphia, who haven't reached the NBA Finals since 2001, lost in the Eastern Conference semi-finals for the fifth time in six years last season.

The Clippers reached the West Conference finals for the first time in 2021, and added Westbrook towards the end of last season after he completed a contract buyout with the Utah Jazz following his trade from the Los Angeles Lakers.

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Former NBA Most Valuable Player James Harden will join the Los Angeles Clippers from the Philadelphia 76ers as part of a blockbuster trade involving seven players and multiple draft picks, US media reported on Tuesday.

Former NBA Most Valuable Player James Harden will join the Los Angeles Clippers from the Philadelphia 76ers as part of a blockbuster trade involving seven players and multiple draft picks, US media reported on Tuesday. Harden, a 10-time All-Star who has won three NBA scoring titles, had yet to play for Philadelphia this season after requesting a move in June and then voicing his frustration publicly when trade talks fell through. According to reports, the deal will send Harden, P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrusev to the Clippers in exchange for Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, Nicolas Batum and KJ Martin. The 76ers will also receive a raft of draft picks which is expected to included a 2028 first-round selection. Harden, 34, will team up with Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Russell Westbrook in Los Angeles. Harden played with Westbrook in Oklahoma City in his first three NBA seasons and briefly reunited with the 2017 MVP in Houston. The trade ends the standoff between Harden and the 76ers, who are looking to bring in another elite guard to partner with reigning MVP Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. ALSO READ | World Cup 2023: Fireworks, masks and cake - CAB planning to celebrate Virat Kohli's b'day with a grand show Harden had been at odds with 76ers team president Daryl Morey over wanting a long-term contract. After opting into a one-year deal with the expectation of being traded, no deal for Harden materialised, leaving him calling Morey a liar and saying the ruptured relationship could never be mended. Philadelphia, who haven't reached the NBA Finals since 2001, lost in the Eastern Conference semi-finals for the fifth time in six years last season. The Clippers reached the West Conference finals for the first time in 2021, and added Westbrook towards the end of last season after he completed a contract buyout with the Utah Jazz following his trade from the Los Angeles Lakers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

NBA: Los Angeles Clippers get James Harden from Philadelphia 76ers in blockbuster trade - Reports

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