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NBA News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Jayson Tatum Believes Healthy Celtics Would Have Defeated Knicks in Playoffs

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Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum recently expressed his firm belief that the team's playoff series against the New York Knicks would have concluded differently had he not sustained an Achilles tear. The prominent player for Boston thinks the series' outcome would have been altered if he had remained healthy throughout the postseason. Tatum's comments, published on September 24, 2025, emphasize his conviction that his presence and full health were crucial factors that would have enabled the Celtics to overcome the Knicks in the NBA playoffs, highlighting the significant impact of player well-being on critical game results.

Tyrese Haliburton Reflects on Steph Curry Mentorship, Faces Achilles Recovery After Finals Run

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Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton revealed how Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry mentored him during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. Haliburton, who admitted he didn't play much, used the experience to learn and pick Curry's brain, often working out with him after practices. This mentorship seemingly influenced Haliburton's performance in the ensuing 2024-25 NBA season, where he led the underdog Pacers to the NBA Finals. However, Indiana ultimately lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder in seven games, with Haliburton tearing his right Achilles tendon early in Game 7. He is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season but is anticipated to recover and reassume his role as the franchise cornerstone.

Khris Middleton Declared Healthy for Training Camp by Wizards General Manager

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Washington Wizards general manager Will Dawkins announced on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, that veteran forward Khris Middleton is anticipated to be fully prepared for the team's upcoming training camp. Middleton had been recovering from a knee issue, but Dawkins' statement, as reported by Chase Hughes of Monumental Sports Network, confirms his readiness. This update provides positive news for the Wizards as they look ahead to the new season, with Middleton expected to be a full participant from the start.

Will Riley Cleared for Washington Wizards Training Camp After Thumb Recovery

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Washington Wizards general manager Will Dawkins confirmed on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, that Will Riley is expected to be fully ready for the team's training camp. Riley had been sidelined with a thumb injury, but the positive update from Dawkins, reported by Chase Hughes of Monumental Sports Network, indicates his recovery is complete. This news is crucial for the Wizards, ensuring Riley's availability as the team commences its preparations for the new NBA season.

Alex Sarr Sidelined with Calf Injury, Expected to Miss Start of Wizards Training Camp

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Washington Wizards' rookie Alex Sarr is set to miss the commencement of the team's training camp due to a calf injury, as reported by Chase Hughes of Monumental Sports Network on September 24, 2025. This setback means the highly anticipated prospect will be sidelined as the Wizards begin their preparations for the upcoming season. Further analysis on his recovery and potential return timeline will be crucial for the team's early season outlook, impacting his initial availability for the Washington Wizards.

Bilal Coulibaly's Thumb Injury to Be Re-evaluated by Wizards in Three Weeks

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Washington Wizards general manager Will Dawkins announced on September 24, 2025, that Bilal Coulibaly, who is dealing with a thumb injury, is scheduled for a re-evaluation in approximately three weeks. This update, reported by Chase Hughes of Monumental Sports Network, indicates a cautious approach to Coulibaly's recovery. The re-evaluation will provide a clearer timeline for his return to action and his availability for the start of the season, impacting the Washington Wizards' early roster decisions and player rotations.

Karl-Anthony Towns Confirms No Offseason Surgeries for Finger or Knee Injuries

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New York Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns confirmed during the team's Media Day on September 24, 2025, that he did not undergo any surgical procedures on his left finger or left knee over the summer. This news, reported by James L. Edwards III of The Athletic, provides a positive update on his physical condition heading into the new season. Towns' declaration suggests he is entering training camp without the need for recovery from offseason operations, which is a significant development for the New York Knicks as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.

BYU Coach Kevin Young Compares Freshman AJ Dybantsa to Paul George

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BYU's five-star freshman AJ Dybantsa has drawn a significant comparison from Cougars coach Kevin Young. Young, a former NBA assistant who coached Paul George during his time with the Los Angeles Clippers, sees similarities between Dybantsa and the Philadelphia 76ers star. This savvy comparison from a coach with direct experience with George highlights the high expectations and potential for the young BYU player, linking his style to an established NBA talent.

Nic Claxton Reports Significant Improvement in Back Condition Ahead of Training Camp

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Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton provided an encouraging update on his health during Tuesday's Media Day on September 24, 2025, stating that his back is "a lot better." This positive development, reported by Erik Slater of ClutchPoints.com, suggests Claxton is progressing well from any previous back issues. His improved condition is a crucial factor for the Brooklyn Nets as they look to build a strong defensive presence, and his readiness for training camp will be a key asset for the team's preparations.

Zion Williamson Provides Positive Update on Back Injury, Feeling Good for Upcoming Season

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New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson has offered an encouraging update on his health, stating he is "feeling really good" as he prepares for the 2025-26 NBA season. The update, reported by Erin Summers of the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network on September 24, 2025, specifically addresses his back injury. Williamson's positive outlook suggests he is on track for a healthy start to the new campaign, a crucial development for the Pelicans.

Precious Achiuwa Returns to Miami Heat on One-Year Deal After Stint with Knicks

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The Miami Heat have officially signed Precious Achiuwa, their 2020 first-round draft pick, to a one-year contract, marking a reunion for the player and the franchise. The signing was reported on September 24, 2025. Achiuwa spent last season with the Knicks, where he averaged 6.6 points and 5.6 rebounds. His return to Miami adds depth and familiarity to the Heat roster, bringing back a player who previously started his NBA career with the team.

Jimmy Butler Organizes Golden State Warriors Minicamp Ahead of Training Camp

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Golden State Warriors veteran forward Jimmy Butler organized and led a team minicamp in San Diego this week, as reported on September 24, 2025. Held less than a week before training camp, the event aimed to foster team bonding both on and off the court for the Warriors. The article highlighted this as the "first full year of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler all together," emphasizing Butler's established leadership role within the squad. Notably, restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga was the only player on the potential Warriors roster who did not attend the camaraderie minicamp.

NBA's Kawhi Leonard Investigation Underway, Outcome Undetermined for Clippers

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The NBA has initiated an investigation concerning Kawhi Leonard, though details regarding its scope and potential implications remain scarce. The ongoing inquiry means it could be a considerable period before any conclusions are reached or before the league announces any potential punishments. The investigation's findings could have significant ramifications for the Los Angeles Clippers organization, team owner Steve Ballmer, and the NBA itself, but the timeline for resolution is currently unknown.

Anthony Edwards Enters Prime Amidst Timberwolves' Quiet Offseason, Raising Future Questions

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As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, Anthony Edwards is poised to enter his prime, a critical juncture for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite Edwards' anticipated individual growth, the team experienced a quiet offseason, leading to speculation about their potential performance. The preview for the upcoming season, published on September 24, 2025, raises the significant question of whether the Timberwolves might take a step back, even with their star player reaching a new career peak. This dynamic sets up an intriguing narrative for Edwards' individual impact against the backdrop of the team's overall trajectory.

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Ace Bailey Splits with Manager Omar Cooper Following Controversial NBA Draft Standoff

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Utah Jazz player Ace Bailey has reportedly parted ways with his controversial manager, Omar Cooper. This significant development follows a dramatic NBA Draft saga where Bailey's representation reportedly informed teams that he would not report if they selected him. The decision to separate from Cooper, as reported on September 24, 2025, suggests a resolution to the contentious issues that arose during the draft process, potentially signaling a new direction for Bailey's career management after the pre-draft controversy.

Michael Porter Jr. Adapting to Expanded Role with Brooklyn Nets After Nuggets Tenure

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Michael Porter Jr. is currently navigating a significant transition as he adapts to his new environment with the Brooklyn Nets. The 6-foot-10 forward, who previously served as the third offensive option for the Denver Nuggets, is now expected to take on an expanded role within the Nets' lineup. As of September 23, 2025, Porter Jr. is actively working on getting adjusted to life in Brooklyn, indicating a period of integration into the team's system and city. This move signifies a potential increase in responsibility and opportunity for the talented forward as he settles into his new team.

Jaylen Brown Connects with Bill Nye, Expresses Gratitude at Star Dedication

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Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown recently spoke at Bill Nye's Hollywood star dedication, acknowledging Nye's influence. The basketball star and television presenter first connected in November 2024 after Brown publicly expressed interest in meeting Nye on social media. This interaction, published on September 23, 2025, highlights Brown's diverse interests beyond the court, showcasing a unique connection between the NBA player and the renowned science educator. Brown's presence at the event underscores his engagement with figures outside the sports world.

Jalen Brunson 'Sad' About Tom Thibodeau's Knicks Firing, Accepts Decision

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New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson expressed his sadness regarding the recent dismissal of head coach Tom Thibodeau, as reported on September 23, 2025. Despite his personal feelings, Brunson stated he does not question the organization's decision, acknowledging, 'That's their point of view.' Thibodeau's tenure with the Knicks included a significant achievement, leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals before his eventual departure. Brunson's comments provide insight into the locker room's reaction to the coaching change within the New York Knicks organization.

Karl-Anthony Towns Disputes ESPN Report of Offseason Knee Procedure

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New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns vehemently denied an ESPN report claiming he underwent an offseason knee procedure, expressing surprise during media day on September 23, 2025. When questioned by Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, Towns responded, "No I did not have a knee — where are you hearing this?" and humorously referenced the fake news account "NBA Centel." The ESPN report by Ramona Shelburne on June 4, 2025, stated Towns had "procedures" for knee and finger injuries after the Knicks' season ended, though its lede mentioned only "treatment." Towns' denial highlights a semantic dispute over the term "procedure" versus "treatment," and the Knicks had not previously corrected the report. Towns is entering his second season with the Knicks after earning third-team All-NBA honors for a 51-win team.

Zion Williamson Anticipates High Standards from Pelicans Executive Joe Dumars

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New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson is preparing for a demanding relationship with executive Joe Dumars, as he anticipates Dumars will hold him to a high standard. Williamson explicitly stated his expectation that the Pelicans' boss will be tough on him, signaling a clear understanding of the rigorous environment ahead. This sentiment, reported on September 23, 2025, suggests Williamson is ready to embrace the challenge and accountability that comes with playing for the New Orleans organization under Dumars' leadership.