Florida center Alex Condon is returning to Gainesville for his senior year, he announced Wednesda...

<p>Florida center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110701" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110701">Alex Condon</a> is returning to Gainesville for his senior year, he announced Wednesday on social media.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DXKmo6mkrFx/?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/DXKmo6mkrFx/?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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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Condon ranked as <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/draft/bestavailable/_/position/ovr/page/2">ESPN</a>'s fourth-best center and 30th overall prospect in this year's draft class.</p><p>The 6-foot-11 big man averaged a career-high 15.1 points, 7.5 boards, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 blocks across 34 appearances this past season, earning his second straight All-SEC third-team nod.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Florida rebounded from a slow start to earn a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament but was upset by Iowa in the Round of 32.</p><p>"It's not the result that we wanted at the end of the year," Condon told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48496703/florida-forward-alex-condon-return-senior-season">ESPN's Jeremy Woo and Shams Charania</a>. "I think we're a better team than that. So, (we) left a bit of unfinished business with the Gators.</p><p>"To go back to school and compete - we know what it's like to win a national championship, and that's the No. 1 goal for me."</p><p>The Gators also got back starting point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/161991" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/161991">Boogie Fland</a> earlier this offseason.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103034" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103034">Denzel Aberdeen</a> is returning to the program as well after transferring to Kentucky last season, but he needs a waiver from the NCAA to secure a fifth year of eligibility.</p><p>Both Condon and Aberdeen played key roles on Florida's championship-winning squad in 2024-25.</p>

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 02: Alex Condon #21 of the Florida Gators plays against the Duke Blue Devils during their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium on December 02, 2025 in Durham, North Carolina.

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Florida star Condon returning for senior year

Scottie Barnes couldn't care less about the Toronto Raptors being labeled as an underdog for thei...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> couldn't care less about the Toronto Raptors being labeled as an underdog for their first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>"We're just going to try to go out there and win. We're going to do our jobs. We're going to be who we are on the floor. That shit don't matter," Barnes told reporters Wednesday, per the <a href="https://youtu.be/56Pqd6Va6qk?si=uEGp0kTfghSO2w-S&amp;t=500">"Hello and Welcome"</a> podcast.</p><p>Toronto won all three of its regular-season matchups versus Cleveland by an average of 11.7 points.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, the Cavs were never at full strength for those meetings. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a> missed the first game between the two clubs, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a> was sidelined for two of the matchups. Ex-starting point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> sat out all three games against the Raptors.</p><p>The Cavs have gotten healthier and revamped their roster since their last contest against Toronto in late November, adding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102739" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102739">Keon Ellis</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30613" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30613">Dennis Schroder</a> via trade.</p><p>Harden has been a huge difference-maker for Cleveland, tallying 20.5 points, 7.7 assists, and 4.8 boards per contest to go along with a 43.5% clip from deep across 26 appearances.</p><p>The Cavs are 19-7 with Harden in the lineup. Additionally, the quartet of Harden, Mitchell, Allen, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> has a net rating of plus-26.7 in 92 minutes together.</p><p>Despite the challenges, Barnes believes the Raptors match up well with the Cavs.</p><p>"I like our chances and what we can do out there on the floor," Barnes said. "I think we can do a great job of using our physicality in this series."</p><p>Game 1 begins Saturday in Cleveland at 1 p.m. ET.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - FEBRUARY 23: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors smiles during a NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Scotiabank Arena on February 23, 2025 in Toronto, Canada.

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The Las Vegas Aces re-signed four-time WNBA MVP A'ja Wilson, the team announced Wednesday.  Wilso...

<p>The Las Vegas Aces re-signed four-time WNBA MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/41039" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/41039">A'ja Wilson</a>, the team announced Wednesday.</p><p>Wilson agreed to a three-year, $5-million supermax contract, which is the largest in league history and fully guaranteed, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2044484425422147921?s=20">ESPN's Shams Charania and Andraya Carter</a>.</p><p>"A'ja is truly one of one, who has led this franchise to where it is today," Aces president of basketball operations and general manager Nikki Fargas said in a statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Not only has she catapulted into the history books and surpassed almost every record in existence, but she does so with the utmost confidence, authenticity, and grace. We look forward to continuing to see her thrive in an Aces uniform."</p><p>Wilson has spent her entire career with Las Vegas after going No. 1 overall in the 2018 WNBA Draft. She's established herself as the league's most dominant player, earning seven All-Star nods, five All-WNBA first-team selections, three WNBA titles, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a pair of Finals MVPs.</p><p>Wilson averaged 23.4 points, 10.2 boards, 3.1 assists, 2.3 blocks, and 1.6 steals across 40 appearances last season. Her historic 2025 campaign also saw her become the first WNBA player to capture MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Finals MVP, and a scoring title in the same season.</p><p>Las Vegas has now retained its core from last season's title-winning squad. The Aces previously agreed to deals with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55029" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55029">Jackie Young</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18132" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18132">Chelsea Gray</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/26136" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/26136">Jewell Loyd</a>.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 18: A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces celebrates during the game against the Seattle Storm on September 18, 2025 at Michelob ULTRA Arena n Las Vegas, Nevada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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BYU guard Rob Wright III is returning to Provo for his junior year, the school announced Wednesda...

<p>BYU guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121789" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121789">Rob Wright III</a> is returning to Provo for his junior year, the school announced Wednesday.</p><p>Wright had entered the transfer portal and reportedly visited Kentucky, but he ultimately chose to stay put.</p><p>"Rob is the best point guard in college basketball," BYU head coach Kevin Young said in a statement. "He is poised to lead our team as the floor general and help be an extension of our staff. I'm looking forward to continuing to coach Rob and help him develop his game."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 20-year-old transferred from Baylor last season and played a key role for the Cougars alongside potential No. 1 overall pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/173442" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/173442">AJ Dybantsa</a>.</p><p>Wright averaged a career-high 18.1 points, 4.6 assists, 3.5 boards, and 1.2 steals across 35 appearances en route to earning All-Big 12 third-team honors.</p><p>Kentucky was hoping to fill its playmaking void at the point. The Wildcats already lost starting shooting guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162335" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162335">Collin Chandler</a> to the Cougars earlier in the offseason.</p><p>San Diego State transfer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110589" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110589">Magoon Gwath</a> committed to DePaul on Tuesday despite reportedly drawing interest from Kentucky.</p>

PROVO, UT - MARCH 7: Robert Wright III, #1 of the Brigham Young Cougars reacts as he runs past Donovan Atwell #12 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders during the second half of their game at the Marriott Center on March 7, 2026 in Provo, Utah.

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The Portland Fire selected point guard Iyana Martin with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA ...

<p>The Portland Fire selected point guard Iyana Martin with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft.</p><p>Martin spent the last two seasons with Spanish club Perfumerias Avenida. The 20-year-old was the MVP of the 2023 FIBA U19 World Cup and the 2025 EuroLeague Young Player of the Year.</p><p>Martin represented Spain at the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico last March, averaging 10 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.4 boards across five appearances.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>She had a solid showing against a talented United States squad, tallying six points and six assists in 17 minutes.</p><p>However, Martin won't come over to the WNBA until next season, Fire general manager Vanja Cernivec told reporters Monday following the draft, including <a href="https://x.com/highkin/status/2043870679809085656?s=20">Sean Highkin of The Rose Garden Report</a>.</p><p>"I've been watching her for years and dreamt last year with the (Golden State) Valkyries that I could get my hands on her," Cernivec added, per <a href="https://x.com/highkin/status/2043869823135035488?s=20">Highkin</a>.</p><p><strong>Nationality:</strong> Spain<br><strong>Position:</strong> Point guard<br><strong>Height:</strong> 5-foot-8</p><p><em>2025-26 EuroLeague statistics with Perfumerias Avenida:</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PPG</th>
<th>RPG</th>
<th>APG</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>12.5</td>
<td>2.8</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>45.7</td>
<td>32.6</td>
<td>81.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N592yU985TM?si=U_E27I_TzSHsInXp" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>

MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 11: Iyana Martin #10 of Perfumerias Avenida in action during Round 28 of Liga Femenina Endesa at Magariños Movistar Academy on April 11, 2026 in Madrid, Spain.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> is rejoining the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday after traveling to Spain to receive multiple injections for his Grade 2 left hamstring strain, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48477183/doncic-return-spain-friday-status-unknown">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The Lakers previously ruled <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3514185" href="https://thescore.com/news/3514185">out</a> Doncic for at least the remainder of the regular season. The six-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3515914" href="https://thescore.com/news/3515914">reportedly</a> sought specialized medical treatment in Europe to potentially speed up his recovery.</p><p>Doncic apparently decided to seek outside care after talking with the Lakers' doctors and his own medical team.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Los Angeles is also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3514840" href="https://thescore.com/news/3514840">without</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> for at least four-to-six weeks due to an oblique injury.</p><p>The Lakers ended the regular season on a three-game win streak after dropping their first two contests without the two guards.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> took the reins in their absence, averaging 25.5 points, 11 assists, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.5 steals over his last four appearances.</p><p>Los Angeles finished fourth in the Western Conference and will take on the Houston Rockets in the opening round of the playoffs.</p>

Los Angeles, CA - March 27: Lakers guard Luka Doncic, #77, celebrates a basket over the Brooklyn Nets in the first half at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Friday, March 27, 2026. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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<p>Denver Nuggets star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> made more history on the final day of the regular season.</p><p>The three-time MVP became the first player to lead the NBA in both rebounds (12.9) and assists (10.7) in a single season.</p><p>Jokic beat out New York Knicks big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> for the rebounding crown and Detroit Pistons floor general <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> for the assists lead.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The eight-time All-Star had never previously led the league in boards or dimes through the first 10 seasons of his illustrious career.</p><p>Jokic recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3513124" href="https://thescore.com/news/3513124">joined</a> former teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> as the only players in league history to average a triple-double in back-to-back seasons.</p><p>The Nuggets center tallied 23 points, eight boards, and one assist in 18 minutes before sitting out the second half of Sunday's regular-season finale against the San Antonio Spurs. Jokic needed to suit up in order to meet the 65-game criteria required to be eligible for the league's end-of-season awards.</p><p>Denver secured the Western Conference's No. 3 seed with their victory over the Spurs and will take on the Minnesota Timberwolves in the opening round of the playoffs.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TX -APRIL 12: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets reacts after a dunk against the San Antonio Spurs in the first half at Frost Bank Center on April 12, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Jokic becomes 1st player in NBA to average most rebounds, assists in same season

The Toronto Raptors are heading to the playoffs for the first time since the 2021-22 campaign.  T...

<p>The Toronto Raptors are heading to the playoffs for the first time since the 2021-22 campaign.</p><p>Toronto leapfrogged the Atlanta Hawks for the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference following its blowout win Sunday over the Brooklyn Nets and the Boston Celtics' narrow comeback win over the Orlando Magic.</p><p>Both the Raptors and Hawks finished with an identical 46-36 record, but Toronto received the higher seed after sweeping the head-to-head matchups.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> led the way for the Raptors with 18 points, 12 boards, and 12 assists for his third triple-double of the season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">9th career triple-double for Scottie Barnes 👏<br><br>18 PTS<br>12 REB<br>12 AST<br><br>Toronto clinches the 5-seed in the East and will take on Cleveland in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs presented by <a href="https://twitter.com/Google?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Google</a>! <a href="https://t.co/bczQYGfYvc">pic.twitter.com/bczQYGfYvc</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2043490597579661715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Raptors' victory kept the Magic in the play-in tournament, where they'll go on the road and take on the Philadelphia 76ers in the 7-8 game.</p><p>Toronto will square off against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the opening round of the postseason. The Raptors won all three regular-season meetings, but haven't played against one another since November.</p><p>Cleveland's roster has changed dramatically with the mid-season acquisitions of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102739" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102739">Keon Ellis</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30613" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30613">Dennis Schroder</a>.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - APRIL 12: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles against Jalen Wilson #22 of the Brooklyn Nets during the first half at Scotiabank Arena on April 12, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 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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Raptors clinch 1st playoff berth since 2022, jump Hawks for East's 5th seed

Duke forward Cameron Boozer won this year's Wooden Award on Friday as the most outstanding men's ...

<p>Duke forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172510" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172510">Cameron Boozer</a> won this year's Wooden Award on Friday as the most outstanding men's college basketball player.</p><p>Boozer beat out BYU's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/173442" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/173442">AJ Dybantsa</a>, Purdue's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102884" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102884">Braden Smith</a>, Arkansas' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/171881" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/171881">Darius Acuff</a>, and Michigan's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110337" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110337">Yaxel Lendeborg</a>.</p><p>The 18-year-old is the second straight Blue Devil to earn the prestigious honor after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171822" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171822">Cooper Flagg</a> took home the award last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Elite freshmen only 🔥 <br><br>Cam Boozer joins elite company as the fifth freshman to win the men's Wooden Award 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/vBntmH45Oa">pic.twitter.com/vBntmH45Oa</a></p>— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/2042784011760665070?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 boards, 4.1 assists, and 1.4 steals across 38 appearances during his one season at Durham.</p><p>Boozer also captured ACC Player of the Year honors and won the Karl Malone Award as the top power forward in college basketball.</p><p>Projected to be a top-five selection in this year's draft, Boozer is the son of two-time NBA All-Star Carlos.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 29: Cameron Boozer #12 of the Duke Blue Devils takes a foul shot during the Elite 8 of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament game against the Connecticut Huskies at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.

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Duke's Cameron Boozer wins Wooden Award

UConn star Sarah Strong won this year's Wooden Award on Friday as the most outstanding women's co...

<p>UConn star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163466" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163466">Sarah Strong</a> won this year's Wooden Award on Friday as the most outstanding women's college basketball player.</p><p>Strong joins Maya Moore, Paige Bueckers, and JuJu Watkins as the only underclassmen to win the Wooden Award since it was established for women in 2004, according to <a href="https://x.com/eaadams6/status/2042782347922145745?s=20">Emily Adams of The Hartford Courant</a>.</p><p>The 6-foot-2 forward is the fifth woman in school history to win the Wooden Award.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Strong edged out teammate Azzi Fudd, UCLA's Lauren Betts, Vanderbilt's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163094" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163094">Mikayla Blakes</a>, and Texas' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111856" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111856">Madison Booker</a>.</p><p>Strong averaged 18.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 3.4 steals, and 1.6 blocks en route to leading the Huskies to another Final Four berth.</p><p>The 20-year-old was also the AP Player of the Year, Big East Defensive Player of Year, and a first-team All-American.</p>

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - MARCH 27: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies dribbles the ball against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the fourth quarter in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Dickies Arena on March 27, 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas.

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UConn's Strong wins Wooden Award

Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham is back in the starting lineup for Wednesday's matchup again...

<p>Detroit Pistons star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> is back in the starting lineup for Wednesday's matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks after missing the last 11 games with a collapsed left lung, the team announced pregame.</p><p>Cunningham last appeared March 17 versus the Washington Wizards. He played just five minutes and was promptly ruled out for the remainder of the game due to back spasms.</p><p>Detroit diagnosed Cunningham with a collapsed lung two days later and provided a minimum two-week recovery timeline.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Pistons went 8-3 during his absence and clinched the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed for the first time since 2007.</p><p>The 24-year-old earned his second straight All-Star nod in February. He's averaging 24.5 points, 9.9 assists, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 steals this season.</p><p>Detroit is scoring 8.9 more points per 100 possessions with Cunningham on the floor.</p><p>Cunningham is ineligible for individual awards, such as MVP and All-NBA honors, as he'll fall short of the 65-game threshold.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 15: =dp1= dribbles the ball during the game against the Toronto Raptors on March 15, 2026 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Cade starting vs. Bucks after 11-game absence

Draymond Green wants the NBA to continue punishing teams for tanking.  "I get fined when I do wro...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> wants the NBA to continue punishing teams for tanking.</p><p>"I get fined when I do wrong. Just fine the hell outta people." Green told reporters following Tuesday's win over the Sacramento Kings, including <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/2041745983395262744?s=20">ESPN's Anthony Slater</a>. "We love taking money from players. Keep fining the teams. I've seen two fines. ... As players, they snatch that money in a heartbeat. Why isn't it the same? Everybody loves money."</p><p>The Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers were <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3477942" href="https://thescore.com/news/3477942">docked</a> $500K and $100K, respectively, in February for sitting their top players.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>NBA commissioner Adam Silver has been vocal about curbing tanking and has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3481886" href="https://thescore.com/news/3481886">reportedly</a> informed general managers of the league's plans to implement rule changes next season.</p><p>The NBA proposed three anti-tanking concepts at its board of governors meeting in March, with each idea introducing playoff teams into the draft lottery process, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48320910/sources-nba-presents-3-comprehensive-anti-tanking-proposals">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>In the meantime, Green doesn't think the Association is doing enough to dissuade teams from trying to lose games.</p><p>"When it comes to team discipline and we see 12 teams tanking, we've seen two fines," Green said. "If my math serves me correctly, that's 10 that ain't been fined. Just some quick math. It could be wrong, so don't judge me if it's wrong.</p><p>"But we don't keep that same energy when it comes to teams, when it comes to officials, when it comes to everybody but players, we don't keep that same energy. But this is a players' league."</p>

Draymond Green (23) tries to make the case for a take foul in the second half as the Golden State Warriors play the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

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Draymond wants NBA to 'keep fining' teams for tanking

Chicago Bulls CEO Michael Reinsdorf cleaned house Monday, dismissing executive vice president of ...

<p>Chicago Bulls CEO Michael Reinsdorf cleaned house Monday, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3516360" href="https://thescore.com/news/3516360">dismissing</a> executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley.</p><p>However, Reinsdorf doesn't want to make a change at head coach.</p><p>"We want Billy (Donovan) to continue to be the (head) coach of the Chicago Bulls," Reinsdorf told reporters Tuesday, including <a href="https://x.com/JamalCollier/status/2041608143298232638?s=20">ESPN's Jamal Collier</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Donovan has spent the past six seasons in the Windy City, posting a 224-254 record. The Bulls made the playoffs during his second campaign in charge, but they haven't been back since 2021-22.</p><p>Chicago signed Donovan to a multi-year extension in July 2025, though the term and financial details are unknown.</p><p>The 60-year-old was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3515772" href="https://thescore.com/news/3515772">reportedly</a> open to coaching North Carolina next season before the Tar Heels hired Michael Malone instead.</p><p>Donovan achieved great success at the collegiate level before making the jump to the NBA. The Hall of Famer led Florida to back-to-back national championships in 2006 and 2007, but he hasn't won an NBA playoff series since guiding the Oklahoma City Thunder to within one win of the Finals in 2015-16.</p><p>Reinsdorf made it clear Tuesday that the franchise's next head of basketball operations must retain Donovan if the coach intends to stay.</p><p>"If someone's not interested in Billy (Donovan) as our coach - and if Billy wants to be our coach - then they're probably not the right candidate for us," Reinsdorf <a href="https://x.com/JamalCollier/status/2041611239277666313?s=20">said</a>.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 02: President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Reinsdorf of the Chicago Bulls talks with head coach Billy Donovan during Media Day at Advocate Center on October 02, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Bulls CEO: We want to keep Donovan as head coach

UConn head coach Dan Hurley saluted Alex Karaban following Monday's 69-63 national championship d...

<p>UConn head coach Dan Hurley saluted <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102538" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102538">Alex Karaban</a> following Monday's 69-63 national championship defeat to Michigan.</p><p>The redshirt senior was a key starter on the Huskies' previous two title-winning squads, and Hurley credited him for helping put the program back on the map.</p><p>"This guy changed my life, the staff's lives, the joy he's brought to the university, the fan base," Hurley told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48417424/dan-hurley-sees-alex-karaban-memorable-uconn-run-close">ESPN's Myron Medcalf</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"His decision to come to UConn has made us ... we're probably the premier program in college basketball right now, having been to three out of four national championship games, having won two of them. He's put UConn in that rarefied place in college basketball."</p><p>Karaban played all 40 minutes in his final collegiate game, tallying a team-high 17 points, 11 boards, two assists, and two steals. The 6-foot-8 forward leaves as the school's all-time leader in wins, games played, and threes made.</p><p>Karaban's 18 victories in the NCAA Tournament are tied for the second-most all time, trailing only Duke icon Christian Laettner. He was one win away from becoming the first non-UCLA player and 10th player overall to capture three national championships, according to <a href="https://x.com/JoshDubowAP/status/2041271683504599329?s=20">Josh Dubow of The Associated Press</a>.</p><p>Despite coming up short against Michigan, Karaban takes pride in what he accomplished in a Huskies uniform.</p><p>"I'm just reminding myself right now that when I came into UConn how much I've grown, and I'm ultimately leaving UConn in a better place right now from where I started," Karaban said.</p><p>"I gave it everything I got. I gave it my heart. Now that I'm leaving and for UConn to be one of the best brands in college basketball and to be at the top, I left it better than when it started. I'm most proud of that."</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 29: Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies celebrates with Alex Karaban #11 after a 73-72 victory against the Duke Blue Devils during the Elite Eight round game of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.

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Hurley: Karaban put UConn in 'rarefied place'

Louisville freshman Mikel Brown Jr. plans to enter the 2026 NBA Draft, he told Andscape's Marc J....

<p>Louisville freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172582" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172582">Mikel Brown Jr.</a> plans to enter the 2026 NBA Draft, he told <a href="https://andscape.com/features/louisville-guard-mikel-brown-jr-set-to-enter-2026-nba-draft/">Andscape's Marc J. Spears</a>.</p><p>The 6-foot-5 guard is widely projected to be a top-10 pick.</p><p>"Obviously, it's just been a dream of mine to be able to be in this position," Brown said. "The little kid in me would freaking scream just to know that I have an opportunity to play at the highest level, which has been a dream of mine since I started picking up a basketball. So yeah, I'll be taking that next step."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Brown was the No. 8 overall recruit on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/252193/mikel-brown-jr">ESPN 100</a> coming out of high school.</p><p>The Florida native missed 14 games with a back injury during his lone campaign with the Cardinals but was productive when available, averaging 18.2 points, 4.7 assists, 3.3 boards, and 1.2 steals across 21 appearances.</p><p>Brown earned All-ACC third-team honors and a spot on the conference's All-Rookie team. He dropped a season-high 45 points against NC State last February to break Cooper Flagg's ACC single-game scoring mark.</p><p>"Obviously, this season was very challenging for me not to be able to compete just because of my physical health," Brown said. "Unfortunately, I hated to be that way, but I just wasn't able to just get out there and play. So, just me maturing and just learning so much about the game this past year meant a lot to me, and it just changed my mindset.</p><p>"I definitely just took that next step as being that leader of the team and being the most vocal on the team. I know what I'm capable of and I feel that I prepared myself for the next level, and I will continue to work hard and prepare for it even more so."</p>

CLEMSON, SC - FEBRUARY 28: Louisville Cardinals guard Mikel Brown Jr. (0) during a college basketball game between the Louisville Cardinals and the Clemson Tigers on February 28, 2026 at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, S.C.

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Louisville star Brown to enter NBA draft

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic will seek specialized medical treatment in Europe in an attem...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> will seek specialized medical treatment in Europe in an attempt to speed up his return from a Grade 2 left hamstring strain, his agent told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2040981068086661135?s=20">ESPN's Shams Charania and Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>The decision was made following consultation with Lakers doctors and Doncic's own medical team, adds Charania and McMenamin.</p><p>Los Angeles recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3514185" href="https://thescore.com/news/3514185">ruled</a> Doncic out for at least the remainder of the regular season after he sustained the ailment during last Thursday's matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Backcourt mate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> suffered a Grade 2 left oblique injury in the same game and is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3514840" href="https://thescore.com/news/3514840">reportedly</a> sidelined four-to-six weeks.</p><p>The Lakers dropped their first contest without their two leading scorers, falling 134-128 on Sunday to the Dallas Mavericks.</p><p>Los Angeles is tied for third in the West with the Denver Nuggets. They've got four more regular-season contests remaining before the playoffs begin April 18.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - APRIL 02: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers brings the ball up court against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Paycom Center on April 2, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Luka seeking specialized treatment in Europe to accelerate recovery

Michigan head coach Dusty May is staying in Ann Arbor amid interest from North Carolina for its h...

<p>Michigan head coach Dusty May is staying in Ann Arbor amid interest from North Carolina for its head coaching vacancy, sources told <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/dusty-may-spurns-unc-too-michigan-head-coach-rejects-suitors-as-he-prepares-for-title-game-vs-uconn/">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>.</p><p>May is reportedly happy and excited to continue serving as the Wolverines' lead man after guiding the program to the national championship game in just his second season at the helm.</p><p>The 49-year-old is the latest notable head coach to turn down the Tar Heels after Arizona's Tommy Lloyd <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3514031" href="https://thescore.com/news/3514031">agreed</a> to a five-year contract extension with the Wildcats last Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Meanwhile, Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan is at least open to the possibility of coaching North Carolina, sources told Norlander.</p><p>However, the Hall of Famer won't engage in any conversations about his future until the NBA's regular season concludes April 12, adds Norlander.</p><p>Donovan's collegiate success is well documented as he boasts a 502-206 record and guided Florida to four Final Fours, including back-to-back national championships in 2006 and 2007.</p><p>The 60-year-old jumped to the pros in 2015 with the Oklahoma City Thunder but hasn't replicated the same success.</p><p>Aside from Donovan, the Tar Heels are also looking to speak with Vanderbilt's Mark Byington, Baylor's Bryce Drew, Texas Tech's Grant McCasland, and Iowa's Ben McCollum, according to Norlander.</p><p>North Carolina parted ways with Hubert Davis following the school's collapse to VCU in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 04: Head Basketball Coach Dusty May of the Michigan Wolverines reacts during the second half of a NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Final Four game against the Arizona Wildcats at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Michigan Wolverines won the game 91-73.

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Report: May turns down UNC; Bulls' Donovan open to job

UConn entered Saturday's Final Four clash with Illinois as a slight underdog, despite the Huskies...

<p>UConn entered Saturday's Final Four clash with Illinois as a slight underdog, despite the Huskies comfortably winning an early-season matchup between the two programs by 13 points.</p><p>That certainly puzzled Dan Hurley, who said his team found a little extra motivation in being the underdog for the national semifinal.</p><p>"You're coming into the game as an underdog versus a team that you beat by 13 points earlier in the season, which was kinda surprising. That's how we kind of came into the game," Hurley <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/NvvuXDQ9_x8?si=XkcxgvQHuC4hM1uz&amp;t=1209">told</a> reporters after the Huskies' 71-62 triumph over Illinois.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>UConn was in control for most of the contest, leading for 35 of 40 minutes and by as many as 14 points midway through the second half. The Huskies held their counterparts to a season-low 62 points on 34% shooting.</p><p>However, UConn had to fend off a late charge from the Fighting Illini as foul trouble piled up down the stretch.</p><p>Illinois got within four points twice during the final two minutes, but the Huskies answered back each time on the next possession.</p><p>"We're a tough program. We're a group of fighters," Hurley said. "It's not appealing to everyone ... We've got incredible will and we go into these games, we're ready for battle."</p><p>The Huskies will take on Michigan in Monday's national championship game.</p><p>UConn is looking to become the first program to win three national championships in four years since John Wooden led UCLA to seven straight crowns from 1967-1973.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 04: Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies reacts against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the first half in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Hurley: 'Kinda surprising' UConn was underdog vs. Illinois

Michigan star Yaxel Lendeborg returned in the second half of the Wolverines' 91-73 blowout of Ari...

<p>Michigan star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110337" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110337">Yaxel Lendeborg</a> returned in the second half of the Wolverines' 91-73 blowout of Arizona after heading to the locker room 12 minutes into Saturday's Final Four showdown with an ankle injury and sprained MCL.</p><p>Lendeborg was in clear discomfort after taking an awkward fall on a drive to the basket. The 6-foot-9 forward twisted his left ankle on his way up to the rim.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yaxel Lendeborg is in some discomfort after this drive <a href="https://t.co/1wBSI4B33X">pic.twitter.com/1wBSI4B33X</a></p>— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/2040608055184834942?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Lendeborg made both of his free throws and promptly exited the game. He was later seen sporting a brace on his knee.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Lendeborg received ice on his ankle in addition to treatment before coming back for the second half.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/tracywolfson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tracywolfson</a> reports that Yaxel Lendeborg is dealing with a MCL sprain and an ankle injury <br><br>He is giving it a go in the 2nd half <a href="https://t.co/IwxO1wlDGL">pic.twitter.com/IwxO1wlDGL</a></p>— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/2040621581139910755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Lendeborg was moving gingerly during his limited time on the court, but he still managed to knocked down a pair of threes to finish with 11 points in 14 minutes.</p><p>The Big Ten Player of the Year was adamant postgame about playing in the national championship game against UConn.</p><p>"There's no way I'm missing the game on Monday night, no matter what goes on," Lendeborg told <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/2040634959988154711?s=20">CBS Sports' Tracy Wolfson</a>. "So I'm gonna play unless I can't walk at all."</p><p>Lendeborg has been a huge part of the Wolverines' success this season. He led the team in scoring (15.2 points per game) and steals (1.2), while also placing second in rebounding (seven), assists (3.3), and blocks (1.3).</p><p>Lendeborg's strong campaign earned him consensus All-American first-team honors and an All-Big Ten first-team nod.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 04: Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts during the first half of the game against the Arizona Wildcats in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Injured Michigan star Lendeborg to play title game 'no matter what' 

Michigan is off to its first national championship game since 2018 following a 91-73 beatdown of ...

<p>Michigan is off to its first national championship game since 2018 following a 91-73 beatdown of fellow 1-seed Arizona.</p><p>The Wolverines' 18-point margin of victory is tied for the largest in an NCAA Tournament game between top seeds since seeding began in 1979, per <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/2040634196834541981?s=20">ESPN Research</a>.</p><p>Michigan led by as many as 30 points despite <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110337" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110337">Yaxel Lendeborg</a> being <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3515072" href="https://thescore.com/news/3515072">limited</a> to 14 minutes after suffering an ankle injury and MCL sprain in the first half.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wolverines center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110610" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110610">Aday Mara</a> led the way with 26 points and nine boards to help the Big Ten program book a date with UConn in the final.</p><p>Meanwhile, freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172118" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172118">Koa Peat</a> added 16 points and 11 boards in defeat for the Wildcats.</p><p>Michigan also became the first team in history to score at least 90 points in each of the first five games of a single NCAA Tournament.</p><p>The Maize and Blue took immediate control of the heavyweight battle, jumping out to a 10-1 start within the first three minutes.</p><p>Dusty May's squad didn't let their foot off the pedal and went into the locker room with a 48-32 advantage.</p><p>Michigan continued to pour it on in the second half, with a decisive 21-8 run being the knockout blow to Arizona's national title dreams.</p><p>Five different Wolverines tallied at least double-digits in scoring. They shot 48% from the field, including a 12-of-27 clip from deep.</p><p>Michigan also recorded 25 bench points, 26 points off turnovers, and 36 points in the paint.</p><p>The Wolverines limited a potent Wildcats offense to a season-low 36.6% shooting from the field and five assists.</p><p>Only UConn stands in the way of Michigan's first national championship since 1989. The Huskies advanced to the title game with a 71-62 triumph over Illinois in the earlier Final Four matchup.</p><p>A Wolverines victory Monday evening would snap the Big Ten's 26-year national championship drought.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 04: Elliot Cadeau #3 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts against the Arizona Wildcats during the second half in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Michigan dismantles Arizona to reach 1st national title game since 2018

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