The Dallas Wings hold on and defeat the Indiana Fever 107-104 in their first game of the regular season 👏
They had three players score 20 points or more!
Arike Ogunbowale: 22 PTS | 5 AST | 3 3PM
Paige Bueckers: 20 PTS | 4 AST | 3 REB
Odyssey Sims: 20 PTS | 2 AST | 2 STL | 2 REB | 2 3PM
Posts published in “Basketball”
This is awkward!
Michael Voepel reporting for ESPN;
The Aces got their 2025 WNBA championship rings before Saturday afternoon’s season opener at T-Mobile Arena. But their bling day turned into a blowout for the Mercury.
The Mercury, who were swept by the Aces in the WNBA Finals last year, won 99-66, the largest margin of victory in a season opener for Phoenix. It was also the largest margin of defeat by a defending champion in its season opener in WNBA history.
The Phoenix Mercury defeat the Aces, 99-66, in their 2025 Finals rematch to open the regular season!
Alyssa Thomas: 20 PTS | 9 AST | 6 REB | 3 STL
Jovana Nogić: 19 PTS | 4 3PM | 4 AST | 2 STL
DeWanna Bonner: 13 PTS | 7 REB | 3 3PM | 2 BLK
Natasha Mack: 10 PTS | 15 REB
Despite the loss, Caitlin Clark just became the fastest player in WNBA history to record 1,000+ points, 250+ rebounds, and 250+ assists. She reached this milestone in just 54 games, shattering the previous record of 62 games.
Clark’s scoring and playmaking have transformed the league. This record proves she’s an all-around force and the new face of professional basketball.
1K for CC 🔥
congrats to Caitlin Clark on 1,000 career points 📚 pic.twitter.com/1IYdb2C0PX
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 9, 2026
now you know?@belk | #WingsUp pic.twitter.com/zKJcLMHn4V
— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) May 9, 2026
The Indiana Fever dropped a heart-breaker in their season opener, falling 107–104 to the Dallas Wings in a game defined by relentless back-and-forth action. The contest was a statistical dead heat for much of the night, featuring 12 lead changes and 8 ties, with neither team able to carve out a double-digit advantage.
While the half-court battle remained even, Dallas found their edge in transition. The Wings dominated the fast-break points category, outscoring the Fever 25–12. This ability to push the pace allowed Dallas to capitalize on Indiana’s defensive rotations and keep the pressure on the Fever’s backcourt.
Kelsey Mitchell put on a masterclass for Indiana, leading all scorers with a blistering 30 points. She was supported by Aliyah Boston, who anchored the interior with 23 points. Caitlin Clark finished with a quiet but efficient stat line of 20 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds, facilitating the offense through heavy defensive pressure.
For the Wings, Arike Ogunbowale proved once again why she is one of the league’s premier finishers. Ogunbowale led Dallas with 22 points, including a clutch, go-ahead step-back three-pointer in the final seconds that effectively sealed the game. Paige Bueckers debuted with a strong 20-point performance, while former Fever guard Odyssey Sims haunted her old team with 20 points of her own.
The Fever had opportunities to force overtime in the closing seconds. Both Mitchell and Clark had looks from beyond the arc to tie the game, but their attempts failed to find the mark.
Game highlights;
CC with the football pass to AB 🏈 pic.twitter.com/hRxFiWZnyW
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 9, 2026
Kelsey Mitchell with the stepback triple 🙌 pic.twitter.com/1M8Y2yu4i1
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 9, 2026
Jess getting to it! pic.twitter.com/XB8RmUkAsX
— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) May 9, 2026
Aliyah Boston getting it done on both ends of the floor 👊 pic.twitter.com/yb0BKbgPgB
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 9, 2026
We got Batwoman at home… LET'S GO LAN 🦸 pic.twitter.com/XS9WxurgKd
— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) May 9, 2026
Indiana will look to bounce back as they travel to Los Angeles for a Wednesday night matchup. Meanwhile, the Wings remain at home to host the Atlanta Dream this Wednesday evening.
Jeff Zillgitt, reporting for NBA.COM;
The Los Angeles Lakers led the Oklahoma City Thunder at halftime and had a five-point lead early in the third quarter.
It looked like the Lakers were playing well enough to make it anyone’s game in the fourth quarter. That didn’t happen because the Thunder did what they have done all season – control the third quarter.
The Thunder owned the league’s best third-quarter net rating during the regular season, outscoring opponents by 10.9 points per 100 possessions.
By the time the third quarter ended, the Thunder were up 13 points – and on their way to a 125-107 victory over the Lakers in Game 2 of their Western Conference semifinal series Thursday.
Game 3 and 4 will be Los Angeles, which will give the Lakers, especially the bench, some confidence to face the defending champs.
Game highlights;
SGA 👏
Thunder win Game 2.
Improve to 6-0 in the postseason.
Take a 2-0 series lead in Round 2. https://t.co/pqQinnfwND pic.twitter.com/jo7FfmM3RQ— NBA (@NBA) May 8, 2026
OKC had a trio of 20-PT scorers in Game 2!
Chet: 22 PTS
SGA: 22 PTS
Mitchell: 20 PTSThunder take a 2-0 series lead in the West Semis 🍿 pic.twitter.com/eQKNQCd3Bz
— NBA (@NBA) May 8, 2026
Chet stuffed the stat sheet in Game 2 👏
22 PTS
9 REB
3 AST
4 STL (career-high in a postseason game)
2 BLK
3 3PMThunder take a 2-0 series lead in the West Semis! https://t.co/3gB21f4y0W pic.twitter.com/aAhEmJKTzB
— NBA (@NBA) May 8, 2026
Breaking: The Golden State Valkyries have waived Kate Martin, the team announced.
She was the 18th overall pick by Las Vegas in the 2024 WNBA draft. pic.twitter.com/mdf1Ma7aWg
— espnW (@espnW) May 7, 2026
The Golden State Valkyries waived Kate Martin on May 7, 2026, as the expansion franchise finalized its inaugural 12-player roster. Martin’s professional journey began on 2024 Draft Day, where she was selected 18th overall by the Las Vegas Aces while attending the event as a spectator to support teammate Caitlin Clark.
During her 2024 rookie season with the Aces, Martin became a fan favorite, appearing in 34 games and contributing to the team’s deep playoff run. She joined Golden State via the 2025 Expansion Draft, where she averaged 6.2 points per game before a quad injury hampered her 2026 preseason.
The Connecticut Sun have officially announced the acquisition of 5’9” guard Hailey Van Lith, adding one of the most decorated collegiate players in history and a recent Olympic medalist to their 2026 roster.
Welcome to Connecticut, Hailey☀️
The Connecticut Sun have been awarded Hailey Van Lith on a waiver claim. #GetClose | #CTSun pic.twitter.com/KIR2Uwp2qL
— Connecticut Sun (@ConnecticutSun) May 6, 2026
Van Lith joins the Sun following a stint with the Chicago Sky, where she was selected as the No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, then was waived by the Sky before the start of the 2026 WNBA Season.
After appearing in 29 games during her rookie campaign with Chicago, Van Lith showed significant flashes of elite efficiency during the most recent preseason. In two outings with the Sky, she averaged 12.5 points and 4.5 assists, shooting a blistering 71.4% from the field.
Beyond the WNBA, Van Lith has already proven herself on the world stage. She represented the United States at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she earned a bronze medal as a key member of the USA 3×3 Women’s National Team.
Caitlin Clark, No. 22 pic.twitter.com/NRTiiPLj5P
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 6, 2026
Indiana Fever has officially announced the 2026 Roster
- #0 Kelsey Mitchell: Guard
- #2 Myisha Hines-Allen: Forward
- #3 Raven Johnson: Guard
- #7 Aliyah Boston: Center-Forward
- #8 Sophie Cunningham: Guard
- #10 Lexie Hull: Guard
- #12 Damiris Dantas: Center-Forward
- #13 Justine Pissott: Guard-Forward
- #21 Makayla Timpson: Forward-Center
- #22 Caitlin Clark: Guard
- #25 Monique Billings: Forward
- #32 Shatori Walker-Kimbrough: Guard
- #52 Tyasha Harris: Guard
Stephanie White will be the Fever’s head coach, while Briann January, Karima Christmas-Kelly, and Austin Kelly will be the assistant coaches, along with trainers Alexis Gholston and Todd Champlin.
In related news, Indiana also announced that the team have waived Megan McConnell, Jessica Timmons and Kayana Traylor.
Ben Lambert, reporting for NBA.Com;
The Knicks defeat the Sixers 108-102, as Jalen Brunson (26 pts) took them home, scoring six of their last nine points to earn a clutch win at Madison Square Garden.
The game included 25 lead changes and 14 ties, as both teams vied back-and-forth for control.
The Sixers ran out of gas late, scoring just three points in the last 6:52 of the game. Tyrese Maxey (26 pts) was their top scorer.
Patrick Ewing and John Starks sat side-by-side on the baseline during the contest, watching New York take a 2-0 lead with a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals in the offing. Now, the series shifts back to Philadelphia.
So far, one of the best game of the 2026 NBA Playoff. Joel Embiid did not play in the game due to a bruised right hip injury.
Similar to Spurs – Wolves series, Game 3 and 4 will now move to Philadelphia.
Here’s the final 4-mins of Game 2 of the East Conference Semifinals; 76ERS – Knicks
The Knicks defeated the 76ers, 108-102 tonight in New York. Jalen Brunson led the way for the Knicks with 26 points on 9-21 from the field (1-5 from 3) to go along with 6 assists. For the 76ers, Tyrese Maxey had a team-high 26 points on 9-23 from the field (1-6 from 3). The Knicks lead the series 2-0
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Ben Lambert, reporting for NBA.Com;
A dominant performance from San Antonio.
Stephon Castle (21 pts) led six Spurs in double figures. They were in control from the early minutes, holding the Timberwolves to 38.8% shooting.
“We don’t care (about their experience advantage),” said Victor Wembanyama (19 pts, 15 reb, 1 stl, 2 blk).
San Antonio earned a 58-36 advantage in points in the paint and outran the Wolves for a 29-5 margin in fast break points.
Minnesota turned the ball over 22 times — that’s tied for the second-most they committed this season.
As expected, the Spurs made sure Game 2 went in their favor; I’m certain the Game 1 loss left a bad taste in their mouths.
The series now shifts to Minnesota for Games 3 and 4; the Spurs have yet to secure a win at the Target Center during the 2025–2026 season.
Game 3 will be this Friday evening.
Game highlights;
"Look at the degree of difficulty on that shot."
What a finish from Castle! https://t.co/rn5L5E5FnA pic.twitter.com/56p3AsjcLn
— NBA (@NBA) May 7, 2026
THE SPURS ARE ON FIRE IN GAME 2!
Champagnie swat.
Fox steal.
Champagnie 3. pic.twitter.com/7XDGNS6ywg— NBA (@NBA) May 7, 2026
"Just great awareness."
Devin Vassell and the Spurs even the series at 1-1 in Round 2! https://t.co/GUVLqlOCh0 pic.twitter.com/VaxkAYpa7L
— NBA (@NBA) May 7, 2026
SPURS DROPPED 133 POINTS IN GAME 2 🔥
Their most points in a postseason game since 1983!
Series even at 1-1 in Round 2 🍿 pic.twitter.com/Xa0puUj8Qp
— NBA (@NBA) May 7, 2026
Chet Holmgren had 24 points and 12 rebounds, and the Oklahoma City Thunder routed the Los Angeles Lakers 108-90 on Tuesday night in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell each added 18 points for the Thunder. The defending champions improved to 5-0 in the playoffs, despite missing 2025 All-Star Jalen Williams with an injured left hamstring for the third straight game. The Thunder shot 49.4% from the field and made 13 of 30 3-pointers.
Oklahoma City will host Game 2 on Thursday.
It was a close game, with OKC holding only a 10-point lead entering the second half. The Lakers even cut the deficit to just four points (64–68) midway through the third quarter, but that’s when the Thunder stepped on the gas. They built a 12-point cushion heading into the fourth and were never threatened again.
Game highlights;
CHET STARRED IN OKC'S GAME 1 WIN!
24 PTS
12 REB
3 BLKThunder lead the Lakers 1-0 in the West Semis 🍿 pic.twitter.com/truvr0N96h
— NBA (@NBA) May 6, 2026
MCCAIN HITS BACK-TO-BACK THREES 🔥
OKC is up 14 in Q4 of Game 1! pic.twitter.com/zU1QvvdkDB
— NBA (@NBA) May 6, 2026
CARUSO GRABS THE LOOSE BALL.
CARUSO SLAMS IT HOME.Thunder up 15 in Q4 of Game 1! pic.twitter.com/747YOVdDqd
— NBA (@NBA) May 6, 2026
"Just a pack of hyenas out here."
This defense from OKC 🔥
Thunder lead by 12 heading into Q4 of Game 1! pic.twitter.com/6RkebHNhrq
— NBA (@NBA) May 6, 2026
Kendra Andrews, reporting for ESPN;
In a separate move, Chicago waived Hailey Van Lith, with sources telling ESPN that the decision was based on the coaching staff’s “style-of-play preference.”
Van Lith was selected by the Sky with the 11th pick in the 2025 draft and averaged 3.5 points per game in 12.4 minutes during her rookie campaign. The 5-foot-9 guard was limited to 29 games last season as she dealt with an ankle injury throughout the year, but she is healthy after spending the summer rehabbing, per sources.
Van Lith now enters a 48-hour waiver period. If a team with cap space claims her, they inherit her rookie contract; otherwise, she becomes an unrestricted free agent. With several teams reportedly expressing interest in her scoring potential, Van Lith is expected to find a new home quickly as rosters finalize across the league.
thank you, Hailey🩵
wishing you nothing but the best ahead pic.twitter.com/YIviqhlvWi
— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) May 4, 2026
Sky also waived Latasha Lattimore and Tonie Morgan, both were drafted this year.
that’s one. pic.twitter.com/j6jh6zDFmL
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) May 5, 2026
The Western Conference Semifinals kicked off with an absolute classic as the Minnesota Timberwolves steal one from the San Antonio Spurs 104-102 in a nail-biting Game 1. The night was defined by a stunning medical turnaround: Anthony Edwards, previously sidelined with a knee injury, made a surprise return to score 18 points, including 11 in a decisive fourth-quarter surge.
While Edwards provided the spark, the Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama delivered a historic performance, the Defensive Player of the Year recorded a rare triple-double, setting an NBA postseason record with 12 blocks with 11 points and 15 rebounds. Despite his dominance at the rim, San Antonio struggled to find consistent scoring late in the game.
Julius Randle led Minnesota with 21 points and 10 rebounds, helping the 6th-seeded Wolves maintain their poise after a frantic late-game steal by Devin Vassell. A missed buzzer-beater by Julian Champagnie ultimately sealed the win for Minnesota, handing the 2nd-seeded Spurs a rare home loss to open the series.
You can watch the last 2-mins of the game below;
Game 2 will remain in San Antonio this Wednesday evening.
Game highlights;
ANT MAKES HIS RETURN, WOLVES SECURE WEST SEMIFINALS GAME 1 WIN ‼️
🐜 18 PTS (11 in 4Q)
🐜 8-13 FGM
🐜 25 MIN@Timberwolves will seek a 2-0 series lead on Wednesday at 9:30pm/et on ESPN 🍿NBA Playoffs presented by @Google pic.twitter.com/EgndbOlAp0
— NBA (@NBA) May 5, 2026
Wemby (12 blocks) set a NEW record tonight, for most blocks in an NBA playoff game since 1973–74 👏
Breaking a three-way tie at 10 blocks:
Hakeem Olajuwon (4/29/1990)
Mark Eaton (4/26/1985)
Andrew Bynum (4/29/2012)NBA Playoffs presented by @Google pic.twitter.com/KmQ1leS63O
— NBA (@NBA) May 5, 2026
MINNESOTA HOLDS ON!
THEY TAKE A 1-0 SERIES LEAD ON THE ROAD 🍿 pic.twitter.com/Ecieyb7rum
— NBA (@NBA) May 5, 2026
The Detroit Pistons completed a historic comeback on May 3, 2026, defeating the Orlando Magic 116–94 in a decisive Game 7. After trailing 3–1 in the series, the top-seeded Pistons rallied to win three straight elimination games, securing their first playoff series victory in 18 years.
Cade Cunningham lead Detroit with a dominant performance scoring 32 points and 12 assists, while Tobias Harris provided the much needed help to the Pistons by adding 30 points and 9 rebounds. Together, they became the first Detroit teammates to score 30+ points in a playoff game since 1977. Defensively, the Pistons stifled Orlando, limiting them to just 15 points in the third quarter.
While Paolo Banchero led the Magic with 38 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists, Orlando’s offense struggled following an injury to Franz Wagner earlier in the series and could not get other Magic player in rhythm to help Banchero.
Game highlights;
UNC KNOCKS DOWN ANOTHER pic.twitter.com/A6RGcKkpQO
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) May 3, 2026
Not new to this. @Djenkinss5 pic.twitter.com/RIaJ70gK9o
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) May 3, 2026
TALK THAT TALK @Djenkinss5 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/BrNLsPaQvQ
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) May 3, 2026
ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED?! https://t.co/VwKnEJjrk3 pic.twitter.com/rJObZ9Ceh6
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) May 3, 2026
Detroit now advances to the Eastern Conference semifinals to face the Cleveland Cavaliers who also just concluded a game 7 win against the Raptors.
The second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs (Conference Semifinals) is set to begin on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The first round concluded on Sunday, May 3, featuring a historic night of Game 7s. In the East, both the Detroit Pistons and Philadelphia 76ers completed rare comebacks from 3–1 series deficits to advance.
Eastern Conference Matchups
- (1) Detroit Pistons vs. (4) Cleveland Cavaliers
- (3) New York Knicks vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers
Western Conference Matchups
- (1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (4) L.A. Lakers
- (2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (6) Minnesota Timberwolves
Jeff Zillgitt, writing for NBA.Com;
The fourth-seeded Lakers took control of Game 6 in the second quarter, built a 25-point lead in the third and advanced to the conference semifinals with a 98-78 victory against the fifth-seeded Rockets on Friday.
Second-year Lakers coach JJ Redick earned his first playoff series victory. “Gratitude, it’s the biggest thing,” Redick said. “It’s been my word for the entire season. Part of my existence in life is gratitude. I’m so grateful to represent the Lakers. I’m so grateful for our players. I’m so grateful for our staff. Doing this is such a collective effort. I wish people understood how many people put their heart and soul into something just to try to go win a basketball game.”
Los Angeles will play the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder for a spot in the West finals.
Game highlights;
LEBRON DELIVERED IN THE SERIES-CLINCHING WIN!
👑 28 PTS
👑 7 REB
👑 8 ASTLakers will face the Thunder in Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs presented by @Google 🍿 pic.twitter.com/SaqnmY3LP1
— NBA (@NBA) May 2, 2026
Took the lead & closed it out in six. pic.twitter.com/WhCIcejI2I
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) May 2, 2026
Just King things. pic.twitter.com/OSBMRPYLF7
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) May 2, 2026
That was smoooooth, Austin pic.twitter.com/9iRlilu9rk
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) May 2, 2026
Game 1 of the West SemiFinals will this May 5th at the Paycom Center, OKC.
The Philadelphia 76ers etched their names into the record books on Saturday night, defeating the Boston Celtics 109–100 at TD Garden. Facing a 3–1 series deficit, the No. 7 seed Sixers became just the 14th team in NBA history to complete such a comeback.
Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey delivered an all-time Game 7 performance on May 2, 2026.
Embiid finished with 34 PTS, 12 REB, while Maxey added 30 PTS, 11 REB, as the duo made NBA history.
They are just the 3rd duo EVER to each record 30+ PTS and 10+ REB in a Game 7, joining:
Kobe Bryant & Shaquille O’Neal (2002)
Dolph Schayes & George Yardley (1959)Even more impressive—they’re the ONLY duo of the three where BOTH players also recorded 5+ AST.
A historic Game 7 showing from Philadelphia’s stars.
Joel Embiid dominated with 34 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists, while Tyrese Maxey added 30 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists. The duo made history as the first pair to each record at least 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists in a Game 7. Boston, playing without Jayson Tatum, saw a 33-point effort from Jaylen Brown but ultimately fell short. Philadelphia now advances to face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
The Indiana Fever wrapped up their preseason with a promising 2-1 record, signaling a shift in momentum for the franchise. Led by a blend of veteran leadership and high-caliber rookie talent, the team showcased a more fluid offensive rhythm and improved defensive communication.
First game, Indiana Fever win against the New York Liberty;
The Indiana Fever defeated the New York Liberty, 109-91, to pick up their first preseason win!
Shatori Walker-Kimbrough: 18 PTS, 4 REB, 2 AST, 2 STL
Kelsey Mitchell: 18 PTS, 2 3PM
Han Xu: 20 PTS, 2 REB
Breanna Stewart: 16 PTS, 2 3PM, 6 REB
Their second game was against the Dallas Wings but was defeated despite a great game by Caitlin Clark.
The Dallas Wings defeat the Indiana Fever, 95–80, in their first preseason game of the season!
Paige Bueckers: 20 PTS | 3 AST | 4 3PM
Maddy Siegrist: 18 PTS | 11 REB
Aziaha James: 17 PTS | 7 REB | 3 AST
Odyssey Sims: 9 PTS | 3 REB | 4 ASTThe Wings move to 1–0 in preseason play.
AS for their last game, they rout the Nigeria National Team;
The Indiana Fever defeat the Nigeria National Team, 105-57, in their final preseason game! 👏
Kelsey Mitchell: 17 PTS, 3 3PM, 2 REB, 2 AST
Damiris Dantas: 16 PTS, 4 3PM, 5 REB, 3 AST
Caitlin Clark: 12 PTS, 2 REB, 4 AST
Makayla Timpson: 12 PTS, 5 REB
Indiana Fever will face the Dallas Wings for their highly anticipated season opener this Saturday, May 9th at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
With a stellar first half, the Knicks set multiple postseason franchise records for totals in a half during the play-by-play era.
PTS: 83 (Franchise record in a half) *T-4th most in a half all-time by any team
FGM: 28 (3rd most FGM in a half)
AST: 21 (Franchise record in a half)
STL: 12 (Franchise record in a half)
PT. DIFF: 47 Pts (League record for largest lead at HT) *All-Time
To say that the Knicks destroyed the Hawks would be an understatement. The game technically finished in the 1st half after limiting Atlanta to a 15 pointsm and 21 points, while scoring 40 points and 43 points, in the first two quarters.
NY Knicks will face the winner between Celtics and 76sers, is headed to a game 7.
Brian Martin, reporting for NBA.com;
Paced by the ultra-efficient wing combo of OG Anunoby (29 points, 11-for-14 FGs) and Mikal Bridges (24 points, 10-12 FGs), and a triple-double from Karl-Anthony Towns (12 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists), the Knicks earned a 140-89 Game 6 victory to advance, ending Atlanta’s season.
After suffering back-to-back one-point losses in Games 2 and 3 to go down 2-1 in the series, the Knicks never lost again. They posted one dominant win after another — a 16-point victory in Game 4 in Atlanta, a 29-point triumph in Game 5 in New York, and an emphatic 51-point closeout victory in Game 6 on the road.
Game highlights;
pure dominance in game 6 🔥⬇️ pic.twitter.com/NDb2VJqjN0
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) May 1, 2026
bridges collecting tolls 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/YLu9zj5gPf
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) May 1, 2026
long ball from landry and it's good 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/7DKbJvypel
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) May 1, 2026
Greg Beacham, AP Sports Writer and published on NBA.Com;
Jabari Smith Jr. scored 22 points, Tari Eason added 18 and the Houston Rockets avoided playoff elimination for the second straight game with a 99-93 victory over the Lakers in Game 5 on Wednesday night, trimming Los Angeles’ lead in the first-round series to 3-2.
Alperen Sengun had 14 points, nine rebounds and eight assists for the fifth-seeded Rockets, who sent the series back to Houston for Game 6 on Friday night with a gritty performance to overcome Austin Reaves’ return to the Lakers.
Houston has won two straight even without top scorer Kevin Durant, who has missed four of the series’ five games with injuries.
The Rockets’ Game 3 blunder is the only reason the Lakers aren’t the ones on the verge of elimination.
Game 6 will be back in Houston this Friday night.
Game highlights;
Jabari Smith Jr. stepped up big to keep the Rockets season alive!
🚀 22 PTS
🚀 6-13 FGM
🚀 7 REB
🚀 2 BLKFrom down 3-0 to down 3-2… Game 6 is Friday at 9:30 PM ET on Prime. pic.twitter.com/8ErP6EYsUG
— NBA (@NBA) April 30, 2026
AYTON BLOCK.
RUI THREE.7-0 Lakers run… it's a 6-point game!
Under 5 minutes left in Game 5 🍿 pic.twitter.com/4ZCAsdeuyN
— NBA (@NBA) April 30, 2026
ROCKETS STAVE OFF ELIMINATION AGAIN.
FROM DOWN 3-0, TO DOWN 3-2 🚨
Game 6: Friday, 9:30pm/et, Prime pic.twitter.com/lfjBYyffAb
— NBA (@NBA) April 30, 2026
REED SHEPPARD. CLUTCH.
The jumper, the steal, the flush… Houston's lead is back up to 7 with 2:20 remaining!
They can force Game 6 with a W 🔥 pic.twitter.com/ktycOoOcEh
— NBA (@NBA) April 30, 2026
The Rockets defeated the Lakers, 99-93 tonight in Los Angeles. Jabari Smith Jr. led the Rockets with 22 points to go with 7 rebounds and 4 three pointers, while Tari Eason contributed 18 points (6-11 FG, 2-6 3P) in the game. LeBron James finished with a team-high 25 points along with 7 assists for the Lakers in the losing effort. The Lakers lead the series 3-2.
The Indiana Fever officially exercised the fourth-year option on Caitlin Clark’s rookie contract, securing her through the 2027 season. While routine for top picks, this move is a strategic necessity for the franchise to lock in their star player and continue to capitalize on her historic impact.
Under the WNBA’s current Collective Bargaining Agreement, exercising this option triggers the EPIC (Exceptional Performance on Initial Contract) provision. Because Clark earned All-WNBA honors as a rookie, this allows her to renegotiate her fourth-year salary to a much higher figure and potentially sign a multi-year supermax extension. Her compensation is projected to jump from roughly $78,000 in 2025 to over $500,000 in 2026, with the 2027 option year serving as the foundation for a future max-level contract, this is similar to the deal that Aliyah Boston, Clark’s teammate, signed two weeks ago.
By finalizing this team option, the Fever ensure roster stability and eliminate any risk of Clark becoming an unrestricted free agency after 2026. This allows the franchise to focus on their upcoming season, which starts this May 9th, and build long-term around their core talent. This basically confirms that Clark will remain as the face of Indiana franchise for the foreseeable future while receiving a significant pay raise.
we have exercised Caitlin Clark's fourth year option 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Vo1UCmqlNA
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) April 28, 2026
Moving on!#PorVida | @HEB | @Ledger pic.twitter.com/fLCCgnaKWv
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) April 29, 2026
Spurs will advance to the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs as they dispose the Portland Trail Blazers 114 – 95 in Game 5 on Tuesday night. Played in front of Spurs homecourt, the Frost Bank Center, the victory sealed a 4-1 series gentleman’s sweep for the Spurs, fueled by a balanced offensive attack and suffocating defense against the Trail Blazers.
De’Aaron Fox led the scoring with 21 points and 9 assists, while Julian Champagnie provided a massive spark from the perimeter, knocking down five three-pointers for 19 points. Victor Wembanyama anchored the interior defense, recording a double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds alongside a dominant 6 blocks.
Portland struggled to find a rhythm throughout the contest, trailing by 20 points at halftime. Despite a valiant 22-point effort from Deni Avdija, the Blazers couldn’t overcome San Antonio’s efficiency. The Spurs now look ahead to the Western Conference Semifinals waiting for the winner between the Nuggets and Timberwolves.
Game highlights
Six swats for @wemby tonight 🚫✋ pic.twitter.com/2OsxEpVkPP
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) April 29, 2026
SWIPA. CLUTCH. 🫡@swipathefox | #PorVida pic.twitter.com/e3olXeNI2O
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) April 29, 2026
See y'all in the Western Conference Semifinals 👏#PorVida pic.twitter.com/Z53UVT15BV
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) April 29, 2026
SGA STARRED IN THE SERIES-CLINCHER!
⛈️ 31 PTS
⛈️ 8 ASTThunder advance to Round 2.
Will play winner of HOU/LAL. pic.twitter.com/QwsHf96jsu— NBA (@NBA) April 28, 2026
DAVID BRANDT – AP Sports Writer and as posted on NBA.com;
The Thunder closed the series with an overwhelming offensive performance – making 17 of 34 (50%) 3-pointers – and their big men played particularly well. The 7-foot-1 Holmgren shot 9 of 16 from the field and grabbed 12 rebounds, while the 7-foot Isaiah Hartenstein added 18 points and 12 rebounds, including seven on the offensive end.
OKC will face the winner of Lakers – Rockets match for their opponent in 2nd round of the NBA Playoffs.
Cooper Flagg’s rookie stats are; 21 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 4.5 APG on a 46.8 FG%. He beat out his fellow Duke roommate Kon Knueppel for the award.
Tim MacMahon, reporting for ESPN;
Flagg edged Knueppel by 26 points in the voting by a panel of 100 media members. Flagg received 56 first-place votes, with the rest going to Knueppel. Flagg had 44 second-place votes, while Knueppel received 55 second-place votes and one third place.
Flagg has the making of an NBA Supper star and barring injury, the Mavs are in a good place right now, considering what happened to them last year.
Youngest in charge. pic.twitter.com/4NefYnxnQI
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) April 27, 2026
Returning from injury with a vengeance, Wembanyama’s 27-point, 7-block performance fueled the Spurs’ 114-93 victory on Sunday. San Antonio are now one win away from clinching the series against Portland. As the video description says “Spurs victory is the second-largest comeback in franchise postseason history in the play-by-play era.”
De’Aaron Fox added 28 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists for the Spurs, who will return home for Game 5 on Tuesday night.
Portland led by as many as 19 points in the first half, even holding the Spurs to just 18 points in the second quarter. However, San Antonio turned the tables in the second half, stifling the Trail Blazers to 16 and 19 points in the final two frames while scoring for 33 and 40 points of their own.
Despite 26 points from Avdija and 20 from Holiday, Portland couldn’t overcome the Spurs’ defensive pressure. San Antonio dominated the hustle stats, out-blocking Portland 10–5 and winning the turnover battle with 13 steals to the Blazers’ 6.
The series shifts back to San Antonio for Game 5, giving the Spurs an opportunity to close out the series at home.
Game Highlights
WEMBY STUFFED THE STAT SHEET IN GAME 4!
👽 27 PTS
👽 11 REB
👽 3 AST
👽 4 STL
👽 7 BLKSPURS RALLY FROM 19 DOWN TO WIN.
3-1 SERIES LEAD IN ROUND 1. pic.twitter.com/ZwiypxL3nR— NBA (@NBA) April 26, 2026
Threw a block party in Portland! 🚫 pic.twitter.com/kUWi700rvo
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) April 26, 2026
Swipa went OFF to help secure the win 👏 pic.twitter.com/K0BVCMWeL5
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) April 26, 2026
LET'S GOOOOO 🗣️
📺 ESPN pic.twitter.com/NcpYSSd7pE
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) April 26, 2026
The Minnesota Timberwolves pushed the Denver Nuggets to the brink of elimination after defeating them 112–96, Saturday evening. The win was fueled by a historic performance from Ayo Dosunmu, who erupted for a career-high 43 points off the bench—the highest-scoring playoff game by a reserve in 50 years.
AYO DOSUNMU GIVES WOLVES 3-1 LEAD WITH NIGHT FOR THE AGES.
🔥 43 PTS, most he's scored in NBA
🔥 13-17 FGM, 5-5 3PM, 12-12 FTM
🔥 68 PTS in Games 3+4Dosunmu is the first player since Steph Curry in 2016 to score 40+ off the bench in the NBA Playoffs presented by @Google! pic.twitter.com/myApdo2aRg
— NBA (@NBA) April 26, 2026
What’s impressive about this win is that the Timberwolves did it without two of their starters; Donte DiVincenzo left the game due to a torn right Achilles tendon, while Anthony Edwards sustained a hyperextension of the knee after contesting a layup late in the second quarter.
Even though they’re missing two starters, the Wolves stifled Denver’s offense, holding the Nuggets to 22% from deep. The game ended in a heated skirmish resulting in ejections for Nikola Jokic and Julius Randle. Minnesota now looks to close out the series Monday night in Denver.
Game Highlights;
JADEN MCDANIELS GOT UP FOR THIS BLOCK 🤯
Wolves lead by 4 through 3Q in Game 4! pic.twitter.com/ZoCZOSxwQf
— NBA (@NBA) April 26, 2026
Degree of difficulty: high
Degree of skill: higher https://t.co/2gQnT7Lzoh pic.twitter.com/kbDjCmTe4J— NBA (@NBA) April 26, 2026
well that was fun 🔥#FeverWin pic.twitter.com/LdolIgixVA
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) April 25, 2026
The Indiana Fever had a strong start to their 2026 campaign with a commanding 109–91 victory over the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on Saturday. While exhibition games often focus on roster experimentation, the Fever showcased a high-octane offense that left the Liberty scrambling to keep pace.
Indiana’s victory was fueled by a balanced scoring effort as Kelsey Mitchell and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough led the charge with 18 points each, demonstrating the backcourt depth the team has assembled in the off-season. Raven Johnson, the No. 10 overall pick, shut critics down by making a game-high eight assists and proving she is ready for the professional spotlight. Caitlin Clark back from her USA basketball, ignited the crowd in her return to action, finishing with seven points and four assists in 17 minutes.
The Liberty, playing without their full starting rotation, saw strong flashes from Han Xu, who recorded 20 points and was a defensive presence with 2 blocks, and Breanna Stewart, who added 16. However, Indiana’s fast paced-game game and 32-point first-quarter explosion proved too much to overcome. The Fever now look toward their next preseason test against the Dallas Wings on May 1st.
Game Highlights;
The Indiana Fever defeated the New York Liberty, 109-91, to pick up their first preseason win!
Shatori Walker-Kimbrough: 18 PTS, 4 REB, 2 AST, 2 STL
Kelsey Mitchell: 18 PTS, 2 3PM
Han Xu: 20 PTS, 2 REB
Breanna Stewart: 16 PTS, 2 3PM, 6 REB
feels good to be back ☺️ pic.twitter.com/bUTXCONO5W
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) April 25, 2026
Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, the spark off the bench ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/MEYW4hly5T
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) April 25, 2026
Justine Pissott showing off her range x2 😈 pic.twitter.com/NWuHz4evwN
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) April 25, 2026
Makayla Timpson's steal leads to a DEEP THREE from Jessica Timmons 👌 pic.twitter.com/82V2ldFMPd
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) April 25, 2026
The Portland Trail Blazers closed the game on a 16–4 run over the final five minutes to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 106–103 and even the series at 1–1.
9 Lead Changes | Tied 9x
Trail Blazers
Scoot Henderson – 31 PTS (11-17 FG) | 5 3PM
Jrue Holiday – 16 PTS (6-17 FG) | 5 REB | 9 AST
FG: 38-89 (42.7%) | 3P: 13-38 (34.2%)
REB: 43 | AST: 18 | STL: 8 | BLK: 10Spurs
Stephon Castle – 18 PTS (7-20 FG) | 8 REB | 5 AST
De’Aaron Fox – 17 PTS (6-16 FG) | 4 AST | 3 STL
FG: 38-86 (44.2%) | 3P: 7-24 (29.2%)
REB: 45 | AST: 19 | STL: 13 | BLK: 5Trail Blazers – Bench: 26 | Paint: 40 | 2ndPTS: 23 | PTSTO: 24
Spurs
Real talk! The Blazers would not have won if Wemby hadn’t fallen to the ground and exited with a concussion. Even without Wemby, the Spurs still managed to build a 14-point lead (93–79) with eight and a half minutes left in the game; however, Portland went on a 27–10 run to close the game with a win.
Here’s a clip of that nasty Victor Wembanyama fall resulting in a concussion.
Victor Wembanyama (concussion protocol) is OUT for the remainder of the game after hitting his head on the court. pic.twitter.com/qP8tAf6osN
— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) April 22, 2026
Game 3 of the first-round playoffs will now shift to Portland. We’ll see how San Antonio adjusts their game, especially if Victor Wembanyama is on limited playing time.
2-0 on home court 🔒 pic.twitter.com/igSw4Wsin4
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 22, 2026
Another dominant performance from LeBron James, as the Lakers secured a 101–94 victory over the Rockets in Game 2, extending their series lead to 2-0. Once again James flirted with a triple-double, racking up 28 points, 8rebounds, and 7 assists. Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard added 25 points and 23 points, respectively. Smart and Kennard also made a 8 of the 13 three-pointers of Lakers.
In the second quarter, Houston attempted a comeback fueled by Alperen Şengün and Jabari Smith Jr., but their efforts were undermined by self-inflicted wounds. Kevin Durant struggled with a game-high nine turnovers, and their half-court execution was generally sloppy, preventing the Rockets from closing the gap in the final minutes.
The Lakers are still without Luka Doncic (strained hamstring) and Austin Reaves (strained oblique); this latest win will allow them to get more rest. The series now shifts to Houston for Game 3 this Friday, where the Rockets will face a must-win scenario to avoid a 0-3 deficit.
Game Highlights;
Luke’s bag is DEEP 😎 pic.twitter.com/mzAr7ERVLw
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 22, 2026
SMART SINKS HIS 5th THREE 🎯
LAKERS 99
ROCKETS 92UNDER A MINUTE TO PLAY IN Q4 🍿 pic.twitter.com/cq1MQht074
— NBA (@NBA) April 22, 2026
On April 21, 1996, the Chicago Bulls secured their 72nd win of the season, setting a new NBA record for most regular-season victories at the time!

