Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark hopes to remain in Indianapolis for the long term alongside Pace...

<p>Indiana Fever star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a> hopes to remain in Indianapolis for the long term alongside Pacers point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>. </p><p>Clark spoke about her love of Indiana in an interview with <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45501463/nba-finals-2025-tyrese-haliburton-caitlin-clark-most-powerful-friendship-basketball">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>, saying it's where she and Haliburton want to finish their careers.</p><p>"Ty and I would both tell you this is where we both hope to stay the rest of our careers," Clark said. "People are like, 'It's a small market.' But no, that's what makes it fun. These people, this is what means the world to them. We haven't hosted a Finals game in 25 years, and I've never seen this type of excitement. People are lining up three hours before the game. I literally just got the chills thinking about it.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"And they're the same for the Fever. I think it's just like (Pacers coach) Rick (Carlisle) said, 'In 49 other states it's basketball, but here it's just really different.' I'm really fortunate to be able to play here, and he's the same."</p><p>Clark was drafted No. 1 overall by the Fever in 2024 and helped the team set multiple attendance <a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/wnba-delivers-record-setting-2024-season">records</a> during her rookie campaign, including the WNBA single-season mark for total home attendance. </p><p>Haliburton spent the first two seasons of his career in Sacramento before being traded to the Pacers in February 2022. He's under contract with the team through the 2028-29 season.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - AUGUST 16: Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) talks to Indiana Pacer guard Tyrese Haliburton after defeating the Phoenix Mercury at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on August 16, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Fever's Clark: Indiana is where Haliburton and I 'both hope to stay'

Saquon Barkley made a big impact on and off the field in his first season with the Philadelphia E...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99272" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99272">Saquon Barkley</a> made a big impact on and off the field in his first season with the Philadelphia Eagles.</p><p>The NFLPA <a href="https://nflpa.com/partners/posts/things-to-know-about-the-2024-year-end-nflpa-top-50-player-sales-list">announced</a> Wednesday that Barkley finished atop its player sales list for the 2024-25 season, becoming the first running back to claim the No. 1 spot since Ezekiel Elliott in 2017. The sales list covers the period of March 1, 2024, to Feb. 28, 2025, and includes apparel, bobbleheads, and other NFLPA-licensed products.</p><p>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes came in at No. 2, followed by Barkley's teammate Jalen Hurts at No. 3. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's the top 20:</p><p>1. Saquon Barkley, RB, Philadelphia Eagles<br>2. Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs <br>3. Jalen Hurts, QB, Philadelphia Eagles<br>4. Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders<br>5. C.J. Stroud, QB, Houston Texans <br>6. Josh Allen, QB, Buffalo Bills<br>7. Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Detroit Lions<br>8. Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR, Detroit Lions<br>9. Micah Parsons, LB, Dallas Cowboys<br>10. Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings<br>11. Travis Kelce, TE, Kansas City Chiefs<br>12. Jordan Love, QB, Green Bay Packers<br>13. Caleb Williams, QB, Chicago Bears<br>14. Joe Burrow, QB, Cincinnati Bengals<br>15. Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Francisco 49ers <br>16. T.J. Watt, DE, Pittsburgh Steelers<br>17. CeeDee Lamb, WR, Dallas Cowboys<br>18. Lamar Jackson, QB, Baltimore Ravens<br>19. Brock Purdy, QB, San Francisco 49ers<br>20. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Detroit Lions</p><p>Barkley is coming off a career year in which he won the NFL rushing title and his<em> </em>first Super Bowl ring.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 09: Saquon Barkley #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after beating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 to win Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Eagles' Barkley becomes 1st RB since 2017 to top NFLPA sales list

Kyrie Irving won't stand for any Karl-Anthony Towns slander.   The Dallas Mavericks star came to ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> won't stand for any <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> slander. </p><p>The Dallas Mavericks star came to Towns' defense during a recent <a href="https://x.com/NBA_NewYork/status/1932612739370807347">Twitch livestream</a> and requested that fans stop teasing the New York Knicks center, particularly over his voice.</p><p>"Y'all gotta stop making fun of my brother KAT," Irving said. "I'm done with y'all. Stop making fun of my brother KAT. It's over now. It's a f---ing wrap. I'm letting y'all know, if you repost that shit again and meme him up, I'm attacking you. Not like that, physically ... but, I'm attacking you, alright? I'm attacking you.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Irving added that he doesn't "always agree" with how Towns changes up the tone of his voice but believes it's due to his upbringing in New Jersey.</p><p>"Y'all don't know what it's like to grow up in Jersey and have all of these cultures that you're a part of," said Irving, who also grew up in New Jersey. "Trust me on that. ... He grew up in a certain area in Jersey, just like me, and you gotta survive out here. And you have many different demographics of people."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Why KAT tryna force the New York accent 😭 <a href="https://t.co/n8xYCC95Tt">pic.twitter.com/n8xYCC95Tt</a></p>— 🌨️ (@NotLikeRuss) <a href="https://twitter.com/NotLikeRuss/status/1923579855456829661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Towns was traded to the Knicks in October 2024 after spending the first nine seasons of his NBA career with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He averaged 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in his first campaign in New York, helping lead the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference finals appearance in 25 years.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 27: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Dallas Mavericks shoots over Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks during the second half at American Airlines Center on November 27, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Kyrie orders fans to 'stop making fun' of Towns

LeBron James prefers to be hands-off when it comes to his sons' basketball development.   On Sund...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> prefers to be hands-off when it comes to his sons' basketball development. </p><p>On Sunday's episode of his "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lso12cxF4Ok">Mind the Game</a>" podcast with Steve Nash, LeBron explained how he's always placed a lot of trust in the coaches Bronny and Bryce James have had over the years. </p><p>"I've never got involved with my kids' coaches," LeBron said. "From Bronny growing up to where he is now, and Bryce on his way to Tucson to Arizona, I've never got involved. I've never went to a practice and sat through practice the whole time to see how my son was being utilized. I never got on the phone with the coaches.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Listen, he's there to coach my son. Coach him however you want to ... I hope you hold him more accountable than any other kid here and say what the f--k you need to say, no matter how it's being said."</p><p>LeBron and eldest son Bronny played alongside each other this season with the Los Angeles Lakers, making history as the first father-son duo to share the court. Bryce, meanwhile, is preparing for his first season at Arizona.</p>

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 12: (L-R) LeBron James, winner of Best Record-Breaking Performance, Bronny James, Bryce James, Savannah James and Zhuri James speak onstage during The 2023 ESPY Awards at Dolby Theatre on July 12, 2023 in Hollywood, California.

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LeBron: 'I've never got involved with my kids' coaches'

A racket Rafael Nadal used during his win at the 2017 French Open sold for a record price over th...

<p>A racket Rafael Nadal used during his win at the 2017 French Open sold for a record price over the weekend.</p><p>The Babolat racket fetched $157,333.20 at a <a href="https://thetennisauction.com/bids/bidplace?itemid=167">Prestige Memorabilia</a> auction on Sunday, making it the most expensive racket ever sold, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com.au/tennis/story/_/id/45477100/rafael-nadal-2017-french-open-racket-sells-record-amount">ESPN's Dan Hajducky</a>. The previous record belonged to another Nadal racket from his final Grand Slam title at the 2022 Australian Open, which sold for $139,700 in 2023. </p><p>Nadal defeated Stan Wawrinka 6-2, 6-3, 6-1 in 2017 to capture his record-extending 10th French Open championship and 15th major title. He went on to win another four French Open titles before retiring from tennis in 2024. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ending Sunday at <a href="https://t.co/3yeJqcaaSF">https://t.co/3yeJqcaaSF</a> - Nadal's 2017 French Open final racket, phomatched to 27 dates! The most extensively photomatched racket to come to auction <a href="https://t.co/eSoiuBNlsv">pic.twitter.com/eSoiuBNlsv</a></p>— Prestige Memorabilia (@PrestigeMem) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrestigeMem/status/1931091526290952468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The custom-made French Open racket was photomatched to 24 different matches across Nadal's 2017 season, including his Miami Open final against Roger Federer and the Madrid Open final. It features his "Rafa" emblem on the throat and still has clay stains on the overgrip. </p>

2017 French Open Tennis Tournament - Day Fifteen. Rafael Nadal of Spain in action against Stan Wawrinka of Switzerland in the Men's Singles Final match on Philippe-Chatrier Court at the 2017 French Open Tennis Tournament at Roland Garros on June 11th, 2017 in Paris, France.

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Nadal's 2017 French Open racket sells for record $157K at auction

Gamers will reportedly have a big impact on how much compensation schools receive for the usage o...

<p>Gamers will reportedly have a big impact on how much compensation schools receive for the usage of their names, images, and likenesses in the upcoming EA Sports College Football 26 video game. </p><p>Royalties will now be distributed based on how often schools are used in gameplay, according to <a href="https://www.cllct.com/sports-collectibles/memorabilia/pay-for-play-schools-royalties-tied-directly-to-usage-in-ea-sports-college-football-26">Matt Liberman of Cllct</a>. That means that the more popular teams are with gamers, the more money they'll be paid.</p><p>"For each CFB product released by EA Sports, we (CLC Learfield) will provide a percentage for each institution based on the games played for that institution as a percentage of the total games played across all institutions," says a document obtained by Cllct via the Freedom of Information Act. "This percentage of games played will become the final allocation percentage for each school that will be applied to the total gross royalties for all institutions received."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Royalties were formerly paid based on the previous 10 years of the final AP Poll rankings, with each school that opted into the game being placed in one of four tiers.</p><p>A total of 136 FBS schools and more than 14,000 players have opted into College Football 26. Each player will be <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245475" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245475">paid</a> $1,500 for their name, image, and likeness, more than double the $600 compensation they received from the previous iteration of the game. </p><p>College Football 26 is scheduled to release July 10.</p>

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 31: A video billboard adverting for EA Sports College Football 25 on the outside of an office building on January 31, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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Report: EA Sports CFB 26 will pay royalties based on schools' play time

Hall of Fame head coach Don Nelson took issue with the Dallas Mavericks' decision to trade Luka D...

<p>Hall of Fame head coach Don Nelson took issue with the Dallas Mavericks' decision to trade <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> to the Los Angeles Lakers this season.</p><p>Nelson, who coached the Mavs from 1997 to 2005, called out his former team Sunday while being honored with the 2025 Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Basketball Coaches Association. </p><p>"I want everybody to know I'm wearing Luka's shoes - his new shoes from Nike, just got on the market - and I'm wearing them in protest for the trade from Dallas," Nelson said, via <a href="https://x.com/hoopshype/status/1931927232299380736">HoopsHype</a>. "I think it was a tremendous mistake by the Dallas franchise to trade him, and I want everybody to know that."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Nelson isn't the first person with a connection to the Dallas organization to vocalize their disappointment with the Doncic trade. Mavs legend Dirk Nowitzki <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3224210" href="https://thescore.com/news/3224210">admitted</a> he felt "disappointed and sad" for Doncic, while former majority owner Mark Cuban <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3248052" href="https://thescore.com/news/3248052">said</a> he was "just as dumfounded as everybody else" by the move.</p><p>The Mavs finished the season 10th in the Western Conference at 39-43 and hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.</p>

February 03, 2010: Golden State coach Don Nelson during an NBA game between the Golden State Warriors and the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX

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Jordan Love has yet to face former teammate Aaron Rodgers since the latter left Green Bay in 2023...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104659" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104659">Jordan Love</a> has yet to face former teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> since the latter left Green Bay in 2023, but that will change this season when the Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers play each other in Week 8. </p><p>Love, who took over from Rodgers as the Packers' starting quarterback, is looking forward to the matchup. </p><p>"It's going to be fun. It's going to be awesome. I'm excited for it," Love told <a href="https://www.channel3000.com/news/top-stories/hopefully-we-can-exchange-jerseys-after-jordan-love-is-excited-to-face-aaron-rodgers-and/article_00947c4a-362c-4ff8-a5fc-7821d58ea3d4.html">Jason Wilde of Channel3000</a> on Friday. "I can't wait to be on different sides, meeting up, and I know we'll talk pre-game, things like that. And hopefully we can exchange jerseys after."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the Steelers on Thursday, ending months of speculation about whether he'd be returning for a 21st NFL season. The 41-year-old spent the last two seasons with the New York Jets.</p><p>"I was excited for A-Rod. I don't think I was too surprised,” Love said. "I feel like there were a lot of rumors going on throughout the whole offseason about him going to the Steelers.</p><p>"I was excited for him, that he was obviously coming back and going to be playing. There were also some rumors that he might be done, so just knowing he's going to keep playing, that's pretty awesome."</p><p>The Packers and Steelers are scheduled to meet Oct. 26 in prime time on Sunday Night Football.</p>

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 17: Aaron Rodgers #12 and Jordan Love #10 of the Green Bay Packers walk onto the field prior to the game against the Tennessee Titans at Lambeau Field on November 17, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Draymond Green admitted his eyebrows were raised by the Dallas Mavericks securing the No. 1 overa...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> admitted his eyebrows were raised by the Dallas Mavericks securing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft after trading away Luka Doncic.</p><p>The Golden State Warriors forward shared his thoughts on the blockbuster Doncic deal on "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGUmxm7IeX4">Jimmy Kimmel Live</a>" on Friday, saying he was shocked because "superstars at 25 don't get traded." When Kimmel asked if he found it suspicious that the Mavs won the draft lottery so soon after the move, Green didn't shy away.</p><p>"Although he suspends me often and fines me often, I still consider Adam Silver a friend, so I'm not gonna do him like that," Green said. "But it may be a little suspicious. Just a tad."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Dallas had a 1.8% chance of earning the top pick but jumped from the 11th spot to first, marking the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3256726" href="https://thescore.com/news/3256726">biggest leap</a> by a franchise in lottery history. The Mavs are expected to select former Duke star Cooper Flagg.</p><p>This year's draft will get underway June 25 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.</p>

HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 30: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the game against the Houston Rockets during Round 1 Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 30, 2025 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Draymond: Mavs landing No. 1 pick 'may be a little suspicious'

Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle was surprised by the New York Knicks' decision to fire To...

<p>Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle was surprised by the New York Knicks' decision to fire Tom Thibodeau.</p><p>Carlisle, whose Pacers defeated the Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals, told reporters Wednesday he initially thought the news of Thibodeau's firing was fake.</p><p>"Thibs went in and changed so much," Carlisle said, according to <a href="https://x.com/MarcJSpears/status/1930334404905222166">Andscape's Marc J. Spears</a>. "You look at all that and what happened yesterday, I thought (the news) was a fake AI thing. No way possible. I know how the players feel about him, too."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Thibodeau spent five seasons as head coach of the Knicks, compiling a 226-174 record and earning NBA Coach of the Year honors in 2021. He had just signed a three-year extension last summer.</p><p>This season was the Knicks' most successful campaign under Thibodeau, as they finished with the third-best record in the East at 51-31 and advanced to the conference finals for the first time since 2000. </p>

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 19: Head Coach of Rick Carlisle of the Indiana Pacers and Head Coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks shake hands after the game during Round 2 Game 7 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on May 19, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Carlisle thought Thibodeau's firing was 'a fake AI thing'

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton made a great impression on LeBron James during their time o...

<p>Indiana Pacers star <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> made a great impression on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> during their time on the United States men's Olympic basketball team last summer. </p><p>James praised Haliburton's character on Wednesday's episode of his "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LioOov940E">Mind the Game</a>" podcast, explaining that he was a positive presence throughout Team USA's gold medal run in Paris.</p><p>"Just a great person, man. A great kid," James said. "Didn't matter if he was playing or if he got the opportunity, he was the same guy every single day. You could see that his main frame was soaking in all the knowledge and the details being around all of us. He was just super appreciative every single day. Never changed his mood."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>James also credited Haliburton as a key part of the Pacers' success this season.</p><p>"You look at what's going on with the Pacers throughout the regular season and now throughout the postseason, you get it. You get why they are the team they are, and it starts with the head of the snake, we know that, and that's with Hali," James said. "You can gravitate and bring energy and love and run through a wall for certain guys, and he's a guy that you would do that for just because of how he plays the game."</p><p>Haliburton and the Pacers kick off the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night.</p>

PARIS, FRANCE - AUGUST 10: LeBron James #6 and Tyrese Haliburton #9 of Team USA pose for a photo after winning the Men's Gold Medal Game on August 10, 2024 at the AccorHotels Arena in Paris, France. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Former NBA star Metta Sandiford-Artest thinks he's the right person to replace Tom Thibodeau as h...

<p>Former NBA star Metta Sandiford-Artest thinks he's the right person to replace Tom Thibodeau as head coach of the New York Knicks. </p><p>The 45-year-old New York native, who played for the Knicks from 2013-14, told <a href="https://www.tmz.com/2025/06/04/metta-world-peace-knicks-head-coach-job/#continued">TMZ Sports</a> on Tuesday that he's serious about coaching his former team and has already "sent messages everywhere" expressing interest in the job.</p><p>"I would love the opportunity just to coach," Sandiford-Artest said. "I'm not interested in nothing else. I've been preparing for this."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Knicks <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295336" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295336">announced</a> Tuesday that they were parting ways with Thibodeau, just three days after they were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. It was the Knicks' first conference finals appearance in 25 years. </p><p>Sandiford-Artest has never coached at the NBA level, but he did work as a player development coach for the Los Angeles Lakers' G League team, the South Bay Lakers, during the 2017-18 season.</p><p>"You can look at the accolades, and you can look at someone that's been preparing," Sandiford-Artest said while making his pitch for the Knicks' head coaching job. "Not just waiting and sitting there. You're talking about someone who's been putting in the work."</p><p>Sandiford-Artest played 17 NBA seasons, winning a championship as a member of the Lakers in 2010. He retired in 2017.</p>

British Columbia , Canada - 30 May 2025; Metta World Peace, Chairman, Artest Management Group, on centre stage during day three of Web Summit Vancouver 2025 at Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada.

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The Edmonton Oilers appear to be the overwhelming fan favorite across not only Canada, but also t...

<p>The Edmonton Oilers appear to be the overwhelming fan favorite across not only Canada, but also the United States, in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final.</p><p>A map created by <a href="http://www.betonline.ag/">BetOnline.ag</a> based on geotagged X data gathered since the matchup was set last Thursday, including over 140,000 tweets containing official fan hashtags, shows the Oilers have 42 states and 10 provinces rooting for them to win the Stanley Cup. </p><p>The defending champion Florida Panthers, on the other hand, are favored in eight states. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788721/2025_stanley_cup_finals_map.jpg?ts=1748975849" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788721/2025_stanley_cup_finals_map.jpg?ts=1748975849 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788721/2025_stanley_cup_finals_map.jpg?ts=1748975849 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788721/2025_stanley_cup_finals_map.jpg?ts=1748975849 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788721/2025_stanley_cup_finals_map.jpg?ts=1748975849 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788721/2025_stanley_cup_finals_map.jpg?ts=1748975849 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>This is the second straight year in which the two teams are going head-to-head in the Stanley Cup Final. The Panthers defeated the Oilers in seven games last season to win their first championship in franchise history.</p><p>Game 1 of the series will take place Wednesday night in Edmonton. </p>

EDMONTON, ALBERTA - JUNE 03: The Edmonton Oilers skate during practice prior to the 2025 Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers at Rogers Place on June 03, 2025 in Edmonton, Alberta.

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X map shows most of U.S., Canada rooting for Oilers to win Stanley Cup

Stephen Curry is already starting to think about his plans for his post-playing career.  In an in...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> is already starting to think about his plans for his post-playing career.</p><p>In an interview with <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/02/steph-curry-contemplates-post-retirement-life-in-broadcasting-golf.html?--source=sharebar%7Cemail&amp;par=sharebar">CNBC Sport's Alex Sherman</a>, the Golden State Warriors star said he hopes to follow in the footsteps of Michael Jordan and own a majority stake in an NBA franchise one day. </p><p>"He might be the only one in our generation who has sat in that seat and done it that way," Curry said. "The idea of being a part of an ownership group and the right opportunity that allows me to have an impact on how a franchise should be operated - how you're going after true winning, like we've done here with the Warriors - that's something I'm excited about pursuing. It's interesting.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Obviously, as an active player, you can't participate in that level until you're done. So you'll see me in the seat somewhere down the road."</p><p>Curry was <a href="https://www.sportico.com/feature/highest-paid-athletes-in-the-world-1234765608/">named</a> the second-highest paid athlete in the world last year by Sportico with estimated total earnings of $153.8 million, but he acknowledged that the cost of majority ownership may be too pricey for him.</p><p>"Obviously, there are levels to this," he said.</p><p>The 37-year-old is coming off his 16th NBA season and is under contract with the Warriors through the 2026-2027 campaign. </p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 30: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors looks on before Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on April 30, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Steph plans to pursue NBA ownership: 'You'll see me in the seat'

Colorado head coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders admits he was hurt by the attack...

<p>Colorado head coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders admits he was hurt by the attacks sons <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210254" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210254">Shilo Sanders</a> received ahead of this year's NFL draft. </p><p>Deion opened up about the predraft process on a recent episode of the "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-CBdaORIEw">Say What Needs To Be Said</a>" podcast with former NFL cornerback Asante Samuel, saying he's choosing to look on the bright side of it all.</p><p>"It hurt," Deion said. "But, you know, the Bible says God uses the foolish things to confound the wise. So it was some foolish stuff that went on, but you know what? That gave them something that they needed. That gave them something that they said, 'Alright.'</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Like that edge that Tom (Brady) had, it gave them the edge that you had, it gave them the edge that I have. You know, when folks would say we weren't gonna be nothing. We had to prove that. That gave them the edge that they needed."</p><p>Deion also hit back against reports claiming Shedeur was unprepared and unprofessional during predraft meetings with NFL teams.</p><p>"When you sit up there and say something like, 'He went into a meeting unprepared,' like, dude," Deion said. "Shedeur Sanders? Who has had six different (offensive) coordinators, who has still functioned and went up, leveled up, every time we brought somebody new in, and you're gonna tell me he was unprepared? You're gonna tell me he had on headphones? Shedeur? Anybody who knows my son understands he's a professional. He's gonna go into a meeting with headphones on? Y'all, come on now."</p><p>Shedeur was widely projected to be taken in the first round of the draft but fell to the fifth round, where the Cleveland Browns selected him 144th overall. Shilo, meanwhile, signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent.</p>

BOULDER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 29: (L-R) Shilo Sanders #21, Head coach Deion Sanders and Shedeur Sanders #2 of the Colorado Buffaloes walk the field during a senior day celebration prior to the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Folsom Field on November 29, 2024 in Boulder, Colorado.

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Deion: It hurt to hear predraft attacks on Shedeur, Shilo

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant had high praise for the Oklahoma City Thunder after watching his f...

<p>Phoenix Suns star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> had high praise for the Oklahoma City Thunder after watching his former team book a ticket to the NBA Finals.</p><p>Durant described the 2025 Thunder as "historically great" when asked Thursday on X who he thinks would win a best-of-seven series between his 2012 squad and the current team.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Im not big on hypotheticals so idk but this 2025 thunder team, they are historically great. Great shooting all across the board, efficient go to scorer in deuce, size and athleticism all across the board, versatility, shooting big and bruiser big, great coaching. Just a flat out…</p>— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDTrey5/status/1928174911438356822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Thunder defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-94 in Game 5 of the Western Conference finals Wednesday to advance to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 2012 Thunder, led by Durant, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a>, lost the NBA Finals in five games that year to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> and the Miami Heat.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 28: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on February 28, 2025 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Durant: 2025 Thunder are 'historically great'

Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson recently said goodbye to his beloved English bulldog, Rocco....

<p>Dallas Mavericks guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a> recently said goodbye to his beloved English bulldog, Rocco. </p><p>Thompson's father, Mychal, revealed Wednesday on ESPN 710's "<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hr-3-broke/id207526159?i=1000710351096">Mason &amp; Ireland</a>" show that Rocco died at the age of 13.</p><p>"We had to put Rocco, Klay's dog, down over the weekend," Mychal said, later adding, "We're all sad, but Rocco had a great, long life."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rocco rose to fame during Klay's time with the Golden State Warriors and had his own <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rocco.thompson/?hl=en">Instagram account</a> documenting his adventures. Klay even <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/news/1497292">created</a> an Anta shoe in Rocco's honor. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVilECjP4BN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVilECjP4BN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVilECjP4BN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Klay Thompson (@klaythompson)</a></p>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Klay spent 13 years with the Warriors before being traded to the Mavs last summer. The four-time NBA champion averaged 14 points, 3.4 rebounds, and two assists in 72 games this season.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - FEBUARY 2: Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on February 2, 2025 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Klay's dog Rocco dies at 13

Matthew Stafford doesn't expect to be among the NFL players competing in Olympic flag football.  ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a> doesn't expect to be among the NFL players competing in Olympic flag football. </p><p>The Los Angeles Rams quarterback had a humorous response Thursday when asked if he'd be interested in playing for the U.S. flag football team at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, acknowledging it's probably not realistic.</p><p>"Sure. I mean, nobody's gonna want me to but yeah, sure," Stafford said, via <a href="https://x.com/camdasilva/status/1928131587402592706">Cameron DaSilva of The Rams Wire</a>. "It'd be fun. I'll coach."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>NFL owners <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3288768" href="https://thescore.com/news/3288768">unanimously approved</a> a proposal to allow players to compete in flag football at the 2028 Games, where the sport will be making its Olympic debut. Six men's and women's teams will be composed of 10 players per squad, with the games being played five-on-five.</p><p>Stafford, 37, is entering his 17th NFL season and fifth with the Rams. He's under contract through 2026.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 24: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Los Angeles Rams before a game against the Minnesota Vikings at SoFi Stadium on October 24, 2024 in Inglewood, California.

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Stafford: 'Nobody's gonna want me' on Olympic flag football team

The anticipated race between Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill and Olympic sprinter Noah L...

<p>The anticipated race between Miami Dolphins wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83498" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83498">Tyreek Hill</a> and Olympic sprinter Noah Lyles is still on. </p><p>Hill told reporters Wednesday that he plans to go through with the race and will be racing "some random guys" in Los Angeles next month as part of his preparation. </p><p>"I got a race June 13, I'm doing a little ... trial race, so I can get in shape for that or whatever," Hill <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhmgerGNJP0">said</a>. "Looking forward to it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hill first challenged Lyles to a race after the latter won gold for the United States in the 100-meter final at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The duo officially <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3217792" href="https://thescore.com/news/3217792">agreed</a> to race earlier this year, though no location or distance has been announced as of yet. </p><p>Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniels was asked about the race and said he knows nothing about it. </p><p>"I have no idea, nor do I care," McDaniels said, according to <a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/tyreek-hill-says-he-still-plans-to-race-noah-lyles-which-is-news-to-mike-mcdaniel">Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio</a>. "First, theoretically, if people are competing, and it's helping their training - as long as he doesn't train to be a sprinter and he's running routes while he's doing it, that's cool.</p><p>"Whether I'm going to stand and say whether I'll allow something - I don't even know where that stands nor did I know that it existed, so we'll cross that page. Right now, I'm worried about (practice) and making sure that he aligns properly in formations before he runs routes and doesn't catch the ball."</p><p>Hill is coming off a down season in which he caught 81 passes for 959 yards and six touchdowns in 17 games. </p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 20: Miami Dolphins Wide Receiver Tyreek Hill (10) jogs across the field during the NFL game between the Miami Dolphins and the Indianapolis Colts on October 20, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Tyreek still plans to race Noah Lyles: 'Looking forward to it'

Magic Johnson admits he was wrong about the Oklahoma City Thunder.   Following their series-clinc...

<p>Magic Johnson admits he was wrong about the Oklahoma City Thunder. </p><p>Following their series-clinching victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night, Johnson took to X to issue an apology to the Thunder for doubting them. </p><p>"I want to apologize to the Oklahoma City Thunder for underestimating them and not thinking they were ready to compete for a Championship," the NBA legend <a href="https://x.com/MagicJohnson/status/1927932512984080416">wrote</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Johnson also praised Thunder general manager Sam Presti. </p><p>"Oklahoma City Thunder's fan base needs to give their GM Sam Presti a standing ovation for putting together an amazing roster!" Johnson <a href="https://x.com/MagicJohnson/status/1927932731352133710">added</a>.</p><p>The Thunder beat the Timberwolves 124-94 to win the Western Conference finals 4-1 and secure a spot in the NBA Finals, where they'll face either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks. It will be Oklahoma City's first finals appearance since 2012. </p>

Former US basketball player Earvin "Magic" Johnson speaks during Billie Jean King's Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony in front of the W hotel, in Los Angeles, California, on April 7, 2025.

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Magic Johnson apologizes for 'underestimating' Thunder

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