Luka Doncic scored 60 points on 18-of-30 shooting as the Los Angeles Lakers topped the Miami Heat...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> scored 60 points on 18-of-30 shooting as the Los Angeles Lakers topped the Miami Heat 134-126 to claim their eighth straight victory.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 LUKA JUST DROPPED 60 POINTS 🚨<br><br>🪄 60 PTS<br>🪄 7 REB<br>🪄 5 STL<br>🪄 9 3PM<br><br>It's the first 60-PT game for a Lakers player since Kobe Bryant scored 60 PTS in his final NBA game on April 13, 2016 vs the Jazz. <a href="https://t.co/6lf8h82phH">pic.twitter.com/6lf8h82phH</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2034827285727998225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Doncic's 60 points match the second-highest scoring game of his career, behind only his 73-point performance against the Atlanta Hawks in 2024 as a member of the Dallas Mavericks.</p><p>He's now amassed 100 total points in back-to-back nights, following his 40-point outing in Wednesday's win over the Houston Rockets. The production marked Doncic's 39th game with at least 30 points this season, the most by a Laker in a campaign in the last 20 years.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"His teammates are enjoying it just as much as him right now. ... This is a special run he's on," Lakers head coach JJ Redick told <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2034825122981306790?s=20">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a> after the game.</p><p>"You see everybody celebrating on the bench, it's like, it shows that we care a lot about each other," Doncic told <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2034837534686253130?s=20">McMenamin</a>. "And that's what great teams do. Just makes my heart happy seeing them celebrate my 60-point game."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> also had a stellar performance, recording 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists for his second triple-double of the season - the 124th of his career. With the contest, James made his 1,611th career regular-season appearance, tying Boston Celtics icon Robert Parish for the NBA record.</p><p>"(LeBron's) a psycho. ... In the same way that Luka willed it for us, LeBron willed it for us tonight," Redick told <a href="https://x.com/LakersReporter/status/2034826473069056032?s=20">Spectrum SportsNet's Mike Trudell</a>.</p><p>The Lakers are now 10 games back of the Oklahoma City Thunder for the top spot in the Western Conference and have won 11 of 12 contests since a three-game skid in late February.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 19: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after scoring a three-pointer against the Miami Heat during the third quarter at Kaseya Center on March 19, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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Los Angeles Lakers All-Star LeBron James isn't part of a group bidding for an NBA expansion franc...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> isn't part of a group bidding for an NBA expansion franchise in Las Vegas.</p><p>"No, I'm not. Not at all," James told <a href="https://x.com/BannedMacMahon/status/2034488533281382726?s=20">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a> following Wednesday's 124-116 victory over the Houston Rockets.</p><p>James' assertion comes hours after a report suggested his chances of becoming a part-owner of a Las Vegas franchise were diminishing, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7129770/2026/03/18/lebron-james-nba-expansion-ownership-vegas-seattle-bid/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Joe Vardon and Mike Vorkunov</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>James has publicly expressed interest in owning a team in Las Vegas as early as four years ago. However, the possibility now seems less likely, as Fenway Sports Group reportedly refuses to pay the expansion fees, which could reach $8 billion.</p><p>FSG and James have been business partners since 2011. The group also owns the Boston Red Sox and reigning Premier League champions Liverpool. FSG was expected to be James' primary financial backer in the pursuit of an expansion team, Vardon and Vorkunov add.</p><p>"With Fenway no longer pursuing NBA ownership, it is less likely that LeBron will pursue a team," a source close to James told The Athletic.</p><p>James' net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion by Forbes. The 41-year-old would need to retire from the NBA before joining an ownership group, and he's currently undecided about whether he'll play next season. The NBA is targeting fall 2028 for the launch of the two expansion teams, pending league approval, with Las Vegas and Seattle the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3501169" href="https://thescore.com/news/3501169">presumed</a> favorites to land the franchises.</p><p>"Why do I want to own a team? I think it'll be cool. I'll stay part of the game and still be able to put people in positions of power," James told The Athletic in 2017. "I've always loved that, putting people in a position of power to feel like they can make a change and make things happen."</p><p>James doubled down on those comments in 2022 on his show "The Shop," saying, "I want a team in Vegas. I want the team in Vegas."</p><p>FSG was founded by Red Sox owner John Henry. RedBird Capital purchased a share of the group in 2021 and valued the company at $7.35 billion. James owns a 1% stake in FSG.</p><p>The NBA's board of governors will reportedly vote on whether to explore adding expansion franchises in Las Vegas and Seattle during meetings scheduled for March 24-25. Approval would require support from 23 of the league's 30 governors.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during a game against the Dallas Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena on February 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

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<p>Sacramento Kings guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> moved into fifth place on the NBA's all-time assists leaderboard during Tuesday's 132-104 defeat against the San Antonio Spurs.</p><p>Westbrook entered the game in seventh position, just one assist behind Mark Jackson. With his second and third assists of the night, the 37-year-old surpassed both Jackson and Hall of Famer Steve Nash on the all-time list.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">RUSS PASSES STEVE NASH 👏<br><br>With this assist, Russell Westbrook passes Steve Nash for 5th on the all-time ASSISTS list! <a href="https://t.co/CWL6UyvG0T">pic.twitter.com/CWL6UyvG0T</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2034101844738224517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Assists</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>John Stockton</td>
<td>15806</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Chris Paul</td>
<td>12552</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Jason Kidd</td>
<td>12091</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>11909</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Russell Westbrook</td>
<td>10343</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Steve Nash</td>
<td>10335</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Mark Jackson</td>
<td>10334</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Magic Johnson</td>
<td>10141</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Oscar Robertson</td>
<td>9887</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Isiah Thomas</td>
<td>9061</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Westbrook holds the NBA mark for career triple-doubles with 209, and his 42 triple-doubles during his MVP-winning 2016-17 campaign are unmatched. He's also one of three players in league history to average a triple-double over a season, joining Oscar Robertson and Nikola Jokic.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The nine-time All-Star entered Tuesday's game as the NBA career record-holder for rebounds by a guard with 9,021 and ranked 14th on the league's all-time scoring list with 27,160 points.</p><p>Westbrook is in his 18th season and first with Sacramento after signing a one-year contract in the summer. The Kings are Westbrook's seventh team.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - MARCH 10: Russell Westbrook #18 of the Sacramento Kings looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers on March 10, 2026 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. 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 Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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<p>Los Angeles Lakers icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> was effusive in his praise for teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> after the guard nailed the game-winning bucket in Saturday's thrilling 127-125 overtime victory over the Denver Nuggets.</p><p>"Just a big-time shot by a f---ing generational player," James told reporters in a video shared by <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2033045654797418554?s=20">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. "We wanted the last shot. We wanted to put the ball in our guy's hands."</p><p>Doncic buried the dramatic fadeaway jumper over Nuggets forward Spencer Jones with seconds left in the overtime frame to secure the Lakers' fifth straight victory and eighth win in nine games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">LUKA. BALLGAME.<br><br>LUKA DONCIC WINS IT IN THE CLUTCH FOR THE LAKERS 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/yIXlJGvbnN">pic.twitter.com/yIXlJGvbnN</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/2033022796146643189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It's going to be just the first of many game winners like that for him in a Lakers uniform," James added.</p><p>Doncic wasn't the only Laker who contributed in the clutch after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> intentionally missed a free throw with 5.2 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Reaves collected the rebound and drained a nine-footer with 1.9 seconds left on the clock to tie the game at 118-118 and force an extra frame.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">AUSTIN REAVES PERFECT MISS TO SEND NUGGETS-LAKERS TO OT!!<br><br>Get to ABC now! 🍿 <a href="https://t.co/J9EH1MngY6">pic.twitter.com/J9EH1MngY6</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/2033019158519030148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I mean, I knew I was going to miss," Reaves told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48211868/lakers-reaves-doncic-deliver-late-game-magic-ot-thriller">McMenamin</a>. "I wasn't going to give the ball an opportunity to go in. Some people shoot it high, and they end up making it on accident. But I don't think my ball ever got over 10 feet."</p><p>Reaves finished with 32 points on 12-of-21 shooting to record 30 or more points for the third straight game. Doncic chipped in with 30 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists for his eighth triple-double of the season on the heels of his first 50-point game in a Lakers uniform.</p><p>"I felt like it was the best atmosphere since I'm a Laker … I had goosebumps," Doncic told reporters, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2033065509214892479?s=20">McMenamin</a>.</p><p>Los Angeles vaulted the Houston Rockets for third place in the West with the victory, 10 games back of the conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 14, 2026: Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) react with Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) after Doncic scored the game winning basket in overtime against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on March 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown lamented the rise of "foul-baiting" in the NBA and the league...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Boston Celtics</a> forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> lamented the rise of "foul-baiting" in the NBA and the league's willingness to reward it following Thursday's 104-102 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>"I don't know, maybe it all works in the end, but I just don't foul-bait," Brown told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48192061/celts-brown-calls-foul-baiting-says-nba-rewards-flopping">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>. "I'm not looking to flop or anything like that, but it's almost like you got to. ... Because there's a couple of plays in the fourth quarter where I felt like I drove strong, went up strong, and I didn't get the benefit of the doubt.</p><p>"But maybe if I would have flopped, maybe I would have been able to sell that call. And those decide games."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Brown recorded 34 points on 10-of-25 shooting and attempted 14 free throws, his third-highest total this season, with seven of those coming in the fourth quarter.</p><p>The five-time All-Star's remarks are the first time he's spoken with reporters since being ejected in the second quarter of Tuesday's road defeat to the San Antonio Spurs. Brown received two technical fouls - an automatic ejection - for arguing a no-call on Spurs guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121685" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121685">Stephon Castle</a>.</p><p>"We commend players for playing the game the right way, but we give the benefit to those who necessarily are trying to manipulate the game into their advantage," Brown added. "I just don't think it's basketball. Let's just play basketball. All the foul-baiting, I think it's whatever for me."</p><p>Although Brown didn't mention any specific players, the timing of his comments suggest that he's taken issue with the play of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai-Gilgeous Alexander</a>, whom critics say often accentuates contact to draw fouls.</p><p>The reigning MVP, who's third in the NBA in free-throw attempts per game behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> with 9.2, extended his 20-point streak to 127 games against the Celtics, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain's long-standing record. Gilgeous-Alexander recorded 35 points, six rebounds, and nine assists and went 7-of-8 from the line. He scored 14 points in the fourth quarter but didn't attempt a free throw in the final frame.</p><p>"It's one thing to get fouled," Brown said, "but it's like, when you're not even trying to score when you're driving and flailing your body into (a defender) just to make it look like you're getting fouled. I think that's the part where it's like, all right, come on.</p><p>"But I mean, that's where our league is at. That's where the NBA is at. So it's like, get down or lay down. So, maybe I need to flop a little bit more."</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 30: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics reacts during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on November 30, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Celtics defeated the Cavaliers 117-115.

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<p>Oklahoma City Thunder guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> now sits atop a prestigious list of some of the best players in the NBA history.</p><p>The reigning MVP broke Wilt Chamberlain's NBA record for consecutive games of 20 or more points in Thursday's visit from the Boston Celtics, hitting a long two over guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121671" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121671">Baylor Scheierman</a> with the shot clock winding down in the third quarter.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">SGA HAS PASSED WILT FOR THE LONGEST 20+ POINT STREAK IN NBA HISTORY 🚨<br><br>Shai: 127<br>Wilt: 126 <a href="https://t.co/Fftlo3ISrY">pic.twitter.com/Fftlo3ISrY</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2032292822011830622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Gilgeous-Alexander has now recorded 20-plus points in 127 straight games dating back to Nov. 1, 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Games</th>
<th>Start</th>
<th>End</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td>127</td>
<td>2024 - Nov. 1</td>
<td>Active</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td>126</td>
<td>1961 - Oct. 18</td>
<td>1963 - Jan. 19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td>92</td>
<td>1963 - Feb. 26</td>
<td>1964 - March 18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Oscar Robertson</td>
<td>79</td>
<td>1963 - Oct. 22</td>
<td>1964 - Oct. 20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T5</td>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>72</td>
<td>2015 - Nov. 23</td>
<td>2016 - Nov. 9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T5</td>
<td>Michael Jordan</td>
<td>72</td>
<td>1987 - Dec. 29</td>
<td>1988 - Dec. 6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>71</td>
<td>1971 - Nov. 21</td>
<td>1972 - Nov. 8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>1970 - Feb. 6</td>
<td>1971 - Jan. 20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Michael Jordan</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>1990 - Nov. 24</td>
<td>1991 - April 19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Elgin Baylor</td>
<td>64</td>
<td>1961 - Feb. 18</td>
<td>1962 - Oct. 22</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The last time the 27-year-old failed to record 20 or more points was against the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 30, 2024, when he scored 18.</p><p>The Thunder star finished with a game-high 35 points Thursday, helping Mark Daigneault's squad hold off the Celtics 104-102. He also added nine assists, six rebounds, three blocks, and two steals while shooting 13-of-18 from the floor (2-of-5 from distance).</p><p>"A streak is a streak. The awards are the awards. But the most that I'm proud of is winning," Gilgeous-Alexander said postgame, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/CAlmanza1007/status/2032316148100853794">Clemente Almanza of Thunder Wire</a>.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander was second in the league with 31.7 points per game entering Thursday's contest. He's scored 50 or more points on five occasions during this streak, including a career-high 55 versus the Indiana Pacers. Chamberlain had 40 outings of 55 or more points during his 126-game streak.</p><p>Chamberlain's own record-setting run ended against the St. Louis Hawks on Jan. 19, 1963, when he was ejected four minutes into the game for "abusive language" toward a referee.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged 32.5 points on 53.5% shooting during his streak and scored exactly 20 points twice. Chamberlain averaged 49.2 points on 51.1% shooting during his 126-game streak.</p><p>The Thunder are now 103-24 during Gilgeous-Alexander's streak.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MARCH 12: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates during the game against the Boston Celtics on March 12, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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<p>Boston Celtics superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> will make his first appearance of the season Friday against the Dallas Mavericks, the team announced.</p><p>The 28-year-old hasn't suited up since rupturing his Achilles tendon last May in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinal versus the New York Knicks.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Back by popular demand <a href="https://twitter.com/jaytatum0?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jaytatum0</a> 📸 <a href="https://t.co/1qVJOyeEUm">pic.twitter.com/1qVJOyeEUm</a></p>— Boston Celtics (@celtics) <a href="https://twitter.com/celtics/status/2030010728703570344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The six-time All-Star previously expressed uncertainty if he would return this season, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3466744" href="https://thescore.com/news/3466744">saying</a> in late January that he "wants to get it right the first time, so it's just a lot to think about."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tatum rejoins a Celtics team that has exceeded expectations in his absence. Boston enters<strong> </strong>Friday's<strong> </strong>contest with a 41-21 record, five games back of the conference-leading Detroit Pistons.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> has stepped up with Tatum sidelined, posting career-best averages of 28.9 points, 7.2<strong> </strong>rebounds,<strong> </strong>and 5.0 assists per game to earn his fifth All-Star selection.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 12: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics celebrates a three point shot in the first half against the New York Knicks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 12, 2025 in New York City.

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Head coach Steve Kerr defended the Golden State Warriors' development of young players Wednesday,...

<p>Head coach Steve Kerr defended the Golden State Warriors' development of young players Wednesday, saying the process requires more patience on a team that's already competitive.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a>'s falling-out with the Warriors sparked criticism of Kerr and the organization's failure to develop the 2021 seventh overall pick. Kuminga had a good start to the 2025-26 campaign before being dropped from Kerr's rotation. He was then <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">dealt</a> to the Atlanta Hawks at the trade deadline alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24735" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24735">Buddy Hield</a> for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a>.</p><p>"Part of the frustration of our fans probably stems from the fact that we had the three lottery picks coming at a time when we were winning a championship, and it's just hard to play 19-year-olds on championship teams," Kerr told Bay Area radio station <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVfNRW2jpPZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">95.7 The Game</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kuminga is one of several Golden State lottery picks drafted between the team's most recent championships (2018 and 2022) who failed to meet expectations. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93886" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93886">James Wiseman</a>, who went No. 2 overall in 2020, struggled to establish himself with the team. The same went for 2021 No. 14 selection <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96093" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96093">Moses Moody</a> - drafted ahead of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96113" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96113">Alperen Sengun</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96120">Trey Murphy III</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96072" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96072">Jalen Johnson</a>, who were all taken in the next five picks.</p><p>"The development that comes is going to be different than it would come on a team that's in the lottery, where you just put a guy out there for 35 minutes and let him make his mistakes," Kerr added.</p><p>"I think that's probably where some of the frustration comes. But you see how it can work, too. You see Moses Moody, you see his development over time, you see <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102773" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102773">Gui Santos</a>, I think <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110258" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110258">Brandin (Podziemski)</a> is really coming into his own and playing well. But it takes time."</p><p>Kerr recalled that during his time as a player on the title-winning Chicago Bulls teams, iconic coach Phil Jackson tempered the expectations for draft picks.</p><p>"I remember when I got to Chicago, we had a couple of drafts and I was in my 10th year ... and I asked Phil Jackson what he thought of the guys we drafted, and he said, 'Well, it won't matter for a few years.' And I said, 'How come?' And he said, 'Well, because grown-ups win championships.'</p><p>"And it's true, it's true. It's really hard to come in as a young player and be expected to have the wealth of knowledge and skill and feel that you have to have to be a championship NBA player."</p>

HOUSTON, TX - NOVEMBER 2: Head Coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors speaks with Jonathan Kuminga #00 during the game on October 22, 2024 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Kerr defends Warriors' handling of young players

Veteran forward Khris Middleton will remain with the Dallas Mavericks for the rest of the campaig...

<p>Veteran forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4789" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4789">Khris Middleton</a> will remain with the Dallas Mavericks for the rest of the campaign after considering a late-season move via a buyout, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TheSteinLine/status/2027919099028705447?s=20">NBA insider Marc Stein</a>.</p><p>The Denver Nuggets were among the teams interested in acquiring the three-time All-Star, Stein adds.</p><p>Middleton was traded by the Washington Wizards to the Mavericks in February as part of the three-team deal involving <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>. He is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 34-year-old former NBA champion is averaging 13.9 points on 48.5% shooting in seven games for the Mavericks.</p><p>The deadline for a player to be playoff-eligible for a new team after a buyout is Sunday.</p>

DALLAS, TX - FEBRUARY 27: Khris Middleton #20 of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 27, 2026 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Report: Middleton intends to finish season with Mavs

Darius Garland plans to make his first appearance for the Los Angeles Clippers in Monday's matchu...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> plans to make his first appearance for the Los Angeles Clippers in Monday's matchup with the Golden State Warriors, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/2027922373497000114?s=20">NBA on Prime's Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>Garland has been sidelined due to a toe injury and hasn't played since joining the Clippers as part of the blockbuster trade that sent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> to the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>The two-time All-Star has missed the last 16 games through injury and has appeared in just 26 contests this season because of the lingering toe ailment. Garland required surgery in the offseason to correct the issue and missed the first seven games of the 2025-26 season for the Cavaliers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Garland, 26, is averaging 18 points and 6.9 assists on 45.1% shooting this campaign.</p><p>Los Angeles has lost its last three games and six out of 10 ahead of Sunday's visit from the New Orleans Pelicans. The Clippers will then hit the road to face the Warriors in the Bay Area on Monday.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 04: Darius Garland speaks at a press conference during a basketball game between the Los Angeles Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers at Intuit Dome on February 04, 2026 in Inglewood, California. 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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The 2026 NBA All-Star Game took place at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. Scroll down to see what ...

<p><em>The 2026 NBA All-Star Game took place at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. Scroll down to see what happened during the revised mini-tournament.</em></p><p><em>For a recap of the NBA All-Star Saturday events, click <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3476805" href="https://thescore.com/news/3476805">here</a>.</em></p><h3>Final</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="ASG 2026: STRIPES-WORLD (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ukDxD" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ukDxD/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The NBA's top young talents have served notice.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A budding USA Stars squad defeated the veteran USA Stripes 45-21 in a one-sided all-American final to win the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.</p><p>Anthony Edwards scored eight points on 3-of-5 shooting as USA Stars snatched a 26-9 advantage by the midway mark of the 12-minute contest. Tyrese Maxey chipped in with nine points for USA Stars.</p><p>Chet Holmgren had eight points for USA Stars and Scottie Barnes capped a solid All-Star Game tournament display with nine points, four rebounds, and an assist.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Scottie Barnes with the finishing touches...<br><br>USA STARS ARE YOUR 2026 NBA ALL-STAR CHAMPIONS 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/MDmX1yp0BC">pic.twitter.com/MDmX1yp0BC</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2023200420596682778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>An experienced USA Stripes team started slowly, going 0-for-10 on its first eight field-goal attempts, and Stars took advantage to race out to an early 12-1 lead before an extended break in play. LeBron James finally scored the Stripes' first field goal with nearly four minutes gone.</p><p>Kawhi Leonard went cold after scoring 31 points in Game 3. The Los Angeles Clippers veteran had one point on 0-of-4 shooting. Donovan Mitchell led the way with six points as Stripes went 8-of-31 from the field.</p><p>Edwards was <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">named</a> All-Star Game MVP after scoring 32 points across USA Stars' three games. The 24-year-old was his typically outgoing self after the final, admitting that he took the most pride in beating the international team. "Beating them is the best feeling in the world," Edwards said.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Beating them is the best feeling in the world." 😂 <br><br>Ant didn't hold back on his feelings about beating Team World 😅 <a href="https://t.co/aCXgFiwvXk">pic.twitter.com/aCXgFiwvXk</a></p>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/2023208395155595417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The revised format might prove to be a success after three captivating 12-minute contests led to the hard-fought finale.</p><p>Leonard offered his thoughts about the revised format during postgame interviews. "Whatever you guys want. Man, same question. Whatever grabs the attention of the consumer, I'm for it," Leonard said, according to <a href="https://x.com/joeylinn_/status/2023203395885240823?s=20">Clippers insider Joey Linn</a>.</p><h3>Game 3</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="ASG 2026: STRIPES-WORLD (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-aNpj7" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/aNpj7/4/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Are you not entertained?</p><p>Leonard went nuclear in front of a partisan crowd at his home arena as USA Stripes eliminated the World team with a 48-45 victory in Game 3 of the NBA All-Star Game.</p><p>Leonard led the way for USA Stripes with an absurd 31 points on 11-of-13 shooting that included a stretch of 11 straight points.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">KAWHI LEONARD FOR 31 POINTS 😳<br><br>USA STRIPES IS MOVING ON TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME VS. USA STARS!! <a href="https://t.co/8tx2wvG6dA">pic.twitter.com/8tx2wvG6dA</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2023190107352604908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>USA Stripes will now face USA Stars in the final.</p><p>Victor Wembanyama was again a menace at both ends for Team World, bagging 19 points and two rebounds. World teammate and first-time All-Star Jamal Murray overcame a rough outing in Game 1 to record eight points and four assists.</p><p>Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic did not play for the World team after both played just 5:05 in Game 1. The international squad was also without former MVPs Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo due to injuries.</p><h3>Game 2</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="ASG 2026: STRIPES-WORLD (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-WazwJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/WazwJ/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>A veteran USA Stripes squad got the better of USA Stars with a thrilling 42-40 win in Game 2 of the NBA All-Star Game.</p><p>San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox played hero, nailing a buzzer-beating triple for the victory.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">WILD ENDING OF USA STARS/STRIPES!<br><br>ANT LAY TO MAKE IT A 2-POINT GAME.<br>ANT STEAL.<br>ANT 3 FOR THE LEAD.<br>FOX GAME-WINNER.<br><br>USA STRIPES SECURES THE WIN 😱 <a href="https://t.co/EjQ74Twq9p">pic.twitter.com/EjQ74Twq9p</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2023179158340137304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown was in fine form, leading USA Stripes with 11 points paired with three boards and a block. Three-time All-Star Game MVP James scored eight points as part of a balanced attack for USA Stripes.</p><p>Fox, who appeared in his second All-Star Game, was a late injury replacement for Antetokounmpo.</p><p>Edwards again led the way for USA Stars with 11 points and three rebounds. Like in Game 1, Edwards again drilled a late three. Cade Cunningham also scored 11 points to go with three rebounds, four assists, and a block, while Detroit Pistons teammate Jalen Duren dropped seven points.</p><p>USA Stripes will play the World team in Game 3, while USA Stars will wait to see if a 1-1 record is good enough to book a spot in the finals.</p><h3>Game 1</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="ASG 2026: STARS-WORLD" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qspi5" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qspi5/5/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Minnesota Timberwolves guard Edwards led the way as USA Stars took Game 1 over the World team in overtime by a 37-35 scoreline.</p><p>Edwards scored 13 points, while Toronto Raptors defensive whiz Barnes did the dirty work with three points, five boards, two assists, one steal, and a block.</p><p>An extra frame was required after Edwards drained a late triple to tie the contest at 32 apiece. Barnes ended it with a three in overtime to reach the target score of five.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">SCOTTIE BARNES WINS IT FOR USA STARS.<br><br>USA STARS VS. USA STRIPES COMING UP NEXT ON NBC &amp; PEACOCK 🍿<br><br>Tap to watch: <a href="https://t.co/UOPqgMKbFu">https://t.co/UOPqgMKbFu</a> <a href="https://t.co/IokO8Nhvg0">pic.twitter.com/IokO8Nhvg0</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2023169491983651223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Wembanyama fulfilled his promise to take this event seriously, scoring the first seven points for the World team en route to a 14-point, six-rebound performance that included an early block on Duren. Wembanyama finished with three blocks.</p><p>New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns scored 10 points off the bench as the international squad battled back from an early deficit before Edwards tied it late. Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija recorded five points in his maiden All-Star appearance.</p><p>USA Stars will now face USA Stripes in Game 2.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-all-star&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3476807"><strong>Click here for the NBA All-Star Game odds available on theScore bet</strong></a></p></blockquote><p><strong>How to watch:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Channel</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>United States 🇺🇸</td>
<td>NBC/Peacock</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Canada 🇨🇦</td>
<td>Sportsnet</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Format:</strong></p><p>The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will be contested between two teams of Americans and a third team consisting of the league's top international stars. The three teams will play a total of four 12-minute games, and the two teams with the best records will advance to the final in Game 4.</p><p>If all three teams are 1-1 after Game 3, then the team with the worst point differential will be eliminated.</p><p><strong>Schedule:</strong></p><ul>
<li>
<strong>Game 1:</strong> USA Stars vs. World </li>
<li>
<strong>Game 2:</strong> USA Stripes vs. Winner of Game 1 </li>
<li>
<strong>Game 3:</strong> USA Stripes vs. Loser of Game 1 </li>
<li>
<strong>Game 4:</strong> Final</li>
</ul><p><strong>USA Stars</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>Suns</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyrese Maxey</td>
<td>Sixers</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Cunningham</td>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td>T-Wolves</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Scottie Barnes</td>
<td>Raptors</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Johnson</td>
<td>Hawks</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chet Holmgren</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Duren</td>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>USA Stripes</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Steph Curry*</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donovan Mitchell</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaylen Brown</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kawhi Leonard</td>
<td>Clippers</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Ingram¹</td>
<td>Raptors</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>De'Aaron Fox²</td>
<td>Spurs</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>* Injured and will not play<br>¹ Injury replacement for Steph Curry</em><br>²<em> Injury replacement for Giannis Antetokounmpo</em></p><p><strong>World</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander* 🇨🇦</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Giannis Antetokounmpo* 🇬🇷</td>
<td>Bucks</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jamal Murray 🇨🇦</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic 🇸🇮</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pascal Siakam 🇨🇲</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Deni Avdija 🇮🇱</td>
<td>Blazers</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Karl-Anthony Towns 🇩🇴</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama 🇫🇷</td>
<td>Spurs</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic 🇷🇸</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Norman Powell 🇯🇲</td>
<td>Heat</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alperen Sengun¹ 🇹🇷 </td>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>* Injured and will not play<br>¹ Injury replacement for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 15: Members of Team USA Stars pose for a photo after winning the 75th NBA All-Star Game at Intuit Dome on February 15, 2026 in Inglewood, California.

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LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 14: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers celebrates after winning the State Farm 3-Point Contest as a part of State Farm All-Star Saturday on Saturday, February 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. 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 2026 NBAE

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Everything that happened during NBA All-Star Saturday

Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden claims that there's no room for loyalty in sports.  "The w...

<p>Cleveland Cavaliers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> claims that there's no room for loyalty in sports.</p><p>"The whole quote-unquote loyalty thing, I think it's overrated," Harden said following Wednesday's win over the Washington Wizards, according to <a href="https://x.com/LeahDohertyTV/status/2021816077672386908?s=20">Cleveland 19 News' Leah Doherty</a>.</p><p>Harden has been widely maligned in the past for demanding trades. The 36-year-old says it's a two-way street and that front offices are also responsible for the apparent lack of fidelity between players and teams.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I think this is a business at the end of the day, and it's a lot of money involved and a lot of decisions that have to be made," Harden added. "If a player isn't producing or if you don't see him in your future - the front office, some of them have to do a job and want to keep their job. So, they feel like they got to do what's best to keep their job, and they trade players."</p><p>Harden, who joined the Cavs at the trade deadline from the Los Angeles Clippers, is on his sixth NBA team and fourth since 2022. Harden and the Clippers worked toward finding a trade destination that would mutually benefit he and the team.</p><p>"If a guy isn't happy and he wants to be traded to somewhere else, then it's a problem," Harden said. "It's just so many different dynamics that go into it. This is a business at the end of the day. Not even just the NBA, but people that have normal jobs have those same problems. It's just not magnified."</p><p>Harden has made an immediate impact with the Cavs, who have won all three of their games with the 11-time All-Star in the lineup. Cleveland is second in offensive rating (126.7) since his debut.</p><p>Following the blockbuster move, Harden <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3436483" href="https://thescore.com/news/3436483">said</a> the trade provided more of an "opportunity to win" than in Los Angeles. The acquisition has helped vault the Cavs into fourth place in the Eastern Conference, seven games back of the Detroit Pistons.</p><p>"For me, it's always about, like, I don't lose focus of trying to compete for a championship. And then financially, making sure that my family is taken care of, you know what I mean?" Harden said Wednesday. "Because I'm very smart, and I've sacrificed a lot - financially, which I don't get credit (for). That don't get talked about. But I'm fulfilled, and I'm happy with it."</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - FEBRUARY 11: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts during the first half against the Washington Wizards at Rocket Arena on February 11, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Cavaliers newcomer Harden: Loyalty is 'overrated'

Kansas State head coach Jerome Tang didn't pull any punches when assessing his team's performance...

<p>Kansas State head coach Jerome Tang didn't pull any punches when assessing his team's performance in Wednesday's 91-62 home loss to Cincinnati.</p><p>"This was embarrassing," Tang told reporters, including <a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/sports/college/cat-zone/2026/02/11/kansas-state-coach-jerome-tang-blasts-team-after-embarrassing-loss/88550569007/">The Topeka Capital-Journal's Wyatt D. Wheeler</a>. "These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform, and there will be very few of them in it next year. I'm embarrassed for the university, I'm embarrassed for our fans and our student section. It's just ridiculous."</p><p>Cincinnati (13-12, 5-7 in Big 12) drained 16 threes in the victory, the second most that the Wildcats have conceded in program history. On one instance, Kansas State failed to box out on a missed free throw that resulted in a dunk for the visitors, a moment that angered Tang.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We have practice at 6 a.m. tomorrow," Tang said. "I have no answers or no words. Y'all got two questions, so whoever wants to ask two questions, I'll answer 'em to the best of my ability right now. But right now, I'm pissed."</p><p>The Wildcats are now 10-14 on the season and 1-10 in the Big 12, tied for last in the conference with Utah. The defeat marked their third straight home loss by at least 24 points, something Tang is painfully aware of.</p><p>"None of that crap matters, man," he said. "These dudes have to have some pride, man. It means something to wear a K-State uniform. It means something to put on this purple, man. Our university's all about that, and it's why I love this place, man. They don't love this place, so they don't deserve to be here."</p><p>Tang is in his fourth season at the helm. He's led the team to a 71-56 record and a spot in the Elite Eight in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. This season could be the first time that he amasses a sub-.500 record with the program.</p><p>Several Kansas State fans in attendance Wednesday wore paper bags over their heads in protest of the team's poor campaign.</p><p>"I'd wear a paper bag, too, if I was them," Tang added before exiting the press conference.</p>

MANHATTAN, KANSAS - FEBRUARY 11: Kansas State Wildcats fans wear paper bags over their heads during a game against the Cincinnati Bearcats at Bramlage Coliseum on February 11, 2026 in Manhattan, Kansas.

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K-State's Tang rips players: 'They don't deserve to be here'

The NBA revealed the three rosters for the round-robin tournament at the upcoming All-Star Game, ...

<p>The NBA revealed the three rosters for the round-robin tournament at the upcoming All-Star Game, announcing the lineups during Tuesday's NBC broadcast.</p><p>The 10 starters, selected by voting, and 14 reserves, chosen by the league's coaches, have been divided into three eight-man teams: two made up of American-born players and one featuring international stars.</p><h3>USA Stars</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Scottie Barnes</td>
<td>Raptors</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>Suns</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Cunningham</td>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Duren</td>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chet Holmgren</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Johnson</td>
<td>Hawks</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyrese Maxey</td>
<td>76ers</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The USA Stars squad features two Americans voted in as starters in Maxey and Cunningham.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>USA Stripes</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jaylen Brown</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Curry</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kawhi Leonard</td>
<td>Clippers</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donovan Mitchell</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Norman Powell</td>
<td>Heat</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The second American team, USA Stripes, includes Curry, Durant, James, and Leonard, a talented quartet with a combined 50 All-Star selections. Brunson, Brown, and Curry were voted in as starters, while Leonard was a late addition by commissioner Adam Silver to complete the 16-player U.S. side.</p><h3>Team World</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Shai-Gilgeous Alexander 🇨🇦</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jamal Murray 🇨🇦</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic 🇸🇮</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Deni Avdija 🇮🇱</td>
<td>Trail Blazers</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pascal Siakam 🇨🇲</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Giannis Antetokounmpo 🇬🇷</td>
<td>Bucks</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic 🇷🇸</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama 🇫🇷</td>
<td>Spurs</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Karl-Anthony Towns 🇩🇴</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The international team boasts Gilgeous-Alexander, Antetokounmpo, and Jokic - winners of six of the last seven MVP awards. The trio, along with Doncic and Wembanyama, were all voted in as starters.</p><p>Murray, Gilgeous-Alexander's international teammate and Jokic's running mate in Denver, earned his first All-Star selection as a reserve on the back of a career-defining season for the injury-riddled Nuggets. Trail Blazers forward Avdija will also make his All-Star debut, while Siakam is set for his fourth appearance despite the Pacers' underwhelming campaign.</p><p>Antetokounmpo, likely to miss the event due to injury, will be replaced on the World team by Towns, who's eligible to play internationally for the United States or the Dominican Republic.</p><p>The 2026 NBA All-Star Game takes place Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The revised format includes four 12-minute games, culminating in a final matchup between the two teams with the best records. The USA Stars will face the World squad in the first contest of the mini-tournament.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The NBA All-Star Game will feature a round-robin mini-tournament with four 12-minute games.<br><br>▪️ Game 1: USA Stars vs. World<br>▪️ Game 2: USA Stripes vs. Game 1 winning team<br>▪️ Game 3: USA Stripes vs. Game 1 losing team<br>▪️ Game 4: Championship (top two teams) <a href="https://t.co/rvX5QyUrS7">https://t.co/rvX5QyUrS7</a></p>— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAPR/status/2018847508060074323?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>If all three teams finish with identical 1-1 records, point differential in each team's two round robin games will determine the tiebreaker.</p>

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 15: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets and Chuck's Global Stars and Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks and Chuck's Global Stars talk during 2025 NBA All-Star Practice & Media Availability at Oakland Arena on February 15, 2025 in Oakland, California.

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NBA unveils U.S., World rosters for All-Star Game

The Los Angeles Clippers and guard James Harden are engaged in discussions about a potential trad...

<p>The Los Angeles Clippers and guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> are engaged in discussions about a potential trade, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2018541694782951933?s=20">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Both the Clippers and Harden are aligned as the club talks to teams interested in acquiring the 11-time All-Star before the Thursday deadline, Charania adds.</p><p>The Cleveland Cavaliers are one of the teams in discussions with the Clippers, with the two parties considering a deal that would send <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> to Los Angeles, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7017549/2026/02/03/clippers-cavs-trade-james-harden-darius-garland/">The Athletic's Tony Jones, Sam Amick, Dan Woike, and Law Murray</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Harden has been absent for Los Angeles' last two games due to personal reasons. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue didn't elaborate on Harden's status prior to hosting the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday.</p><p>"No," Lue said when asked if he had any information about Harden's absence, according to <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/article/sources-clippers-cavaliers-engaged-in-james-harden-trade-talks-042052754.html">Yahoo Sports' Kelly Iko</a>. "I just know he was home in Phoenix and just personal reasons, so I'm not sure."</p><p>The 36-year-old Harden signed a two-year, $81.5-million deal with the Clippers in June after declining his player option. He has a $42.3-million player option for the 2026-27 season and has the ability to veto any trade. His contract also includes a 15% trade bonus that's currently valued at $2.36 million, according to <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/2018542853438451983?s=20">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.</p><p>"I'm from L.A. and I'm blessed to be here," Harden <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3456084" href="https://thescore.com/news/3456084">said</a> in January. "Being at home, that's like the opportunity of a lifetime for me."</p><p>Harden is averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds on 41.9% shooting in 44 games this season. His scoring average is the highest it's been since the 2019-20 campaign when he finished third in MVP voting behind LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo.</p><p>The Clippers' outlook has changed drastically since a 6-21 start to the season. Reports from December <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3441606" href="https://thescore.com/news/3441606">suggested</a> the organization would avoid a fire sale prior to the deadline and would instead look to make upgrades.</p><p>Veteran contributors <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37602">Bogdan Bogdanovic</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45122">John Collins</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/412">Nicolas Batum</a> are all on expiring deals and could be used in a trade to match salaries.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - FEBRUARY 20: James Harden #1 of the LA Clippers walks backcourt during a game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on February 20, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Report: Clippers, Harden discussing potential trade

Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue echoed the sentiments of many NBA fans on the heels of...

<p>Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue echoed the sentiments of many NBA fans on the heels of Sunday's 2026 All-Star Game reserves announcement.</p><p>Clippers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> was not among the 14 players picked by the league's coaches for the midseason exhibition, an omission that Lue laments.</p><p>"It's unfortunate. To me, he's been the best player the last six weeks," Lue told reporters, according to <a href="https://x.com/MarkG_Medina/status/2018493950424920141?s=20">Clippers insider Mark Medina</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Leonard's averaging a career-high 27.6 points across 35 games. His performances have helped the Clippers improve their record to 23-25 after a disastrous 5-16 start. He's been named an All-Star on six previous occasions.</p><h3>Western Conference reserves</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>ASG nods</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jamal Murray</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td>T-Wolves</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>Suns</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Deni Avdija</td>
<td>Trail Blazers</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chet Holmgren</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>"For the guys that got selected, it's an honor, but I also think Kawhi should have been selected as well," Lue added.</p><p>"He carried us to get out of the hole we were in. He and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James (Harden)</a> both."</p><p>Harden was also not <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3461949" href="https://thescore.com/news/3461949">selected</a> as one of the reserves for the West. Harden is averaging 25.4 points, his highest output since the 2019-20 campaign when he finished third in MVP voting.</p><p>Leonard and 11-time All-Star Harden are still eligible to be picked as injury replacements.</p><p>The Clippers are the host team for the 2026 All-Star Game, which takes place Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 12: Head Coach Tyronn Lue of the LA Clippers speaks with Kawhi Leonard #2 during the game on February 12, 2025 at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. 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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Clippers' Lue: 'It's unfortunate' Kawhi wasn't selected for All-Star Game

The Milwaukee Bucks have begun sending counteroffers to teams aggressively pursuing a trade for G...

<p>The Milwaukee Bucks have begun sending counteroffers to teams aggressively pursuing a trade for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2018457499158941852?s=20">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, and New York Knicks are among the teams strongly interested in Antetokounmpo, Charania adds.</p><p>Milwaukee is reportedly seeking either a blue-chip talent and/or a significant package of draft picks for the two-time MVP. The Warriors submitted an offer centered on picks, the T-Wolves' proposal focuses on players, while the Heat's offer includes a combination of picks and players, Charania adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Bucks have apparently become <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3466198" href="https://thescore.com/news/3466198">increasingly open</a> recently to trading the 31-year-old, with Antetokounmpo also receptive to leaving before the deadline or in the offseason.</p><p>Four games back of the final play-in spot, Milwaukee went into Monday's slate sitting 12th in the Eastern Conference. The Bucks have a first-round pick swap with the Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans Pelicans for the 2026 draft, where Milwaukee receives the inferior of their pick and New Orleans' based on the teams' records. If the season ended today, this swap would result in the Bucks keeping their pick.</p><p>Antetokounmpo, a seven-time All-NBA first-team selection, is currently sidelined after aggravating a calf strain on Jan. 23. Although there's no official timeline for his recovery, Antetokounmpo <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3464870" href="https://thescore.com/news/3464870">predicted</a> he'd miss four-to-six weeks.</p><p>He was voted in as an All-Star starter last week and is averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists on 64% shooting in 30 outings this season.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 03: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after an apparent injury against the Detroit Pistons during the first quarter at Fiserv Forum on December 03, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Michael J. Chandler

Supervising editor

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