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NBA News

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

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

LeBron James Reportedly Did Not Author Article in State-Run Chinese Publication

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Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, who recently completed his 15th shoe tour in China, reportedly did not write or submit an essay attributed to him in the state-controlled People's Daily. Despite his name appearing as the author of a piece complimentary of China, sources close to James confirmed to The Athletic that he was not the author. Instead, comments made by James during group interviews in Shanghai and Chengdu were published, with the article referring to him as the "author" while also stating he was interviewed and the piece edited by a reporter. James' remarks, which focused on basketball as a bridge between countries, were consistent with a seasoned professional on a promotional tour. This marked his first trip to China since 2019, following a period of strained NBA-China relations.

Jonathan Kuminga's Stalemate with Warriors Impacts Free Agent Decisions

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Jonathan Kuminga is currently in a stalemate with the Golden State Warriors, a situation that is impacting the team's free agent pursuits. According to a report published on September 10, 2025, free agent targets, including Al Horford, are seeking clarity on the Kuminga saga before making decisions about signing with the Warriors. This ongoing situation suggests that the resolution of Kuminga's status is a key factor for players considering joining the team in the Bay Area.

Free Agent Al Horford Seeks Clarity Amidst Warriors' Jonathan Kuminga Stalemate

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Veteran big man Al Horford, currently a free agent, is reportedly among several free agent targets for the Golden State Warriors seeking clarity on the ongoing stalemate with Jonathan Kuminga. Published on September 10, 2025, reports indicate that potential signees are waiting for developments in the Kuminga situation before committing to the Bay Area team. Horford's previous team, the Boston Celtics, will "dearly miss" his versatility, as he, Luke Kornet, and Kristaps Porzingis collectively accounted for 4,200 minutes last season, highlighting the significant role he played as a luxury in double-big lineups or at center.

Neemias Queta Poised to Emerge as Celtics' Primary Center After Strong EuroBasket Showing

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Boston Celtics big man Neemias Queta is widely favored to become the team's go-to center this season, following a strong performance at EuroBasket where he notably recorded 23 points and 18 rebounds against Czechia. Published on September 10, 2025, a "Ramp to Camp" panel overwhelmingly picked Queta, citing his continuous improvement over two seasons with the Celtics and his institutional knowledge under coach Joe Mazzulla. The 26-year-old, who has 1,345 career minutes and started 6 of 62 games last season, is described as an imposing defensive presence. With Al Horford's departure, Queta has a golden opportunity to shoulder a larger minutes load and build on his developing long-range confidence.

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Victor Wembanyama Initiates Unique Fan Tryouts for Spurs' New Supporter's Section

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San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is set to host tryouts for a new fan 'supporter's section,' a unique initiative planned for September 9, 2025. Wembanyama is actively planning to audition Spurs fans, aiming to create a dedicated group that will energize the arena. This concept is loosely inspired by the vibrant fan sections he has observed from sports teams during his time overseas, bringing an international flavor to the Spurs' home game atmosphere. The move highlights Wembanyama's engagement with the fanbase and his desire to foster a more dynamic and interactive game-day experience for the San Antonio community.

Draymond Green Embraces Villain Role, Unfazed by NBA Fan Hate

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Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green recently shared his perspective on receiving hate from basketball fans during a discussion with streamer Kai Cenat. The four-time NBA champion and All-Star expressed a preference for being hated over being in the middle, stating, "If you’re not going to love me, I’d rather be hated... at least you have an opinion about me." Green, a veteran in his 13th year, emphasized that fan negativity doesn't bother him, as it doesn't impact his personal or financial life. He also suggested that people often hate winners, a sentiment consistent with his successful career. Despite being frequently voted among the most disliked players, Green remains clearly unfazed by the criticism.

Alperen Sengun's Dominant Performance Leads Turkey to EuroBasket Semifinals

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Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun delivered a dominant game on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, playing a pivotal role in guiding his national team, Turkey, to the EuroBasket semifinals. Sengun's impressive play ensured Turkey's advancement, setting up an anticipated matchup against Greece in the upcoming semifinal round. His strong performance was instrumental in Turkey's successful journey to this advanced stage of the tournament.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Dominates, Propels Greece into EuroBasket Semifinals

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Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo showcased a dominant performance on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, leading his national team, Greece, directly into the EuroBasket semifinals. His exceptional play was crucial in securing Greece's spot, where they are now set to face Turkey in the next round. Antetokounmpo's leadership and impactful game were highlighted as key factors in Greece's successful run to the tournament's penultimate stage.

Josh Giddey Secures Four-Year, $100 Million Extension with Chicago Bulls

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Josh Giddey has officially re-signed with the Chicago Bulls on a four-year contract reportedly worth $100 million. This extension was described as 'almost a formality,' with the Bulls sweetening their initial $88 million offer, and Giddey’s representatives compromising from their original target of $110-120 million. The agreement highlights a mutual desire between Giddey and the Bulls, who envision a shared future as the team builds for years ahead. Giddey, who has been a starter since his rookie season with Oklahoma City and maintained a 30-minutes-a-night role in his first season in Chicago, is considered a core part of the Bulls' long-term plans, aiming for success in the next two to three years. His re-signing is noted as not impacting the ongoing Jonathan Kuminga situation.

Kawhi Leonard's Uncle Reportedly Sought 'No-Show' Deals from Raptors in 2019 Amid Clippers Investigation

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The NBA is investigating whether the Los Angeles Clippers circumvented the salary cap with a reported 'no-show' endorsement deal for Kawhi Leonard in 2021. A new report from the Toronto Star claims Leonard's uncle and representative, Dennis Robertson, sought similar impermissible benefits from the Toronto Raptors during 2019 free agency negotiations. Robertson's requests to the Raptors reportedly included an ownership stake in outside companies and at least $10 million annually in 'no-show' sponsorship income, which the Raptors rejected. This aligns with recent reports that Leonard signed a four-year, $28 million endorsement deal with Aspiration, a now-bankrupt former Clippers sponsor, that required no actual endorsing, with an additional $20 million in stock. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer denies wrongdoing, stating the team only introduced Leonard to Aspiration. The NBA has retained a law firm to investigate.

Jonathan Kuminga's Warriors Standoff Nears October 1st Deadline Amid Contract Disagreement

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Jonathan Kuminga's restricted free agency with the Golden State Warriors remains in a stalemate, with an October 1st deadline for resolution fast approaching. While the market for Kuminga was reportedly 'slightly warmer' than for some other restricted free agents, it wasn't enough to compel the Warriors into a significant move. Kuminga, who entered September with two primary options, has shown more interest in accepting the Warriors' $7.99 million qualifying offer, which would grant him trade veto power and allow him to re-enter the market next summer. He has reportedly shown no interest in Golden State's preferred two-year, $45 million contract. A key distinction from other RFA situations is the lack of mutual long-term desire between Kuminga and the Warriors, who are focused on their veteran core for the next two seasons. Signing the qualifying offer remains the anticipated outcome.

Cam Thomas Accepts Brooklyn Nets Qualifying Offer, Eyes Future Free Agency

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Cam Thomas has reportedly accepted the Brooklyn Nets' $5.99 million qualifying offer, securing his return to the team for the upcoming season. This decision follows a period of limited market interest for his services as a restricted free agent. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Thomas had considered alternative options, including a one-year deal up to $20 million with incentives or a two-year, $30 million contract. By signing the one-year qualifying offer, Thomas gains the right to veto any potential trade and positions himself to re-enter a potentially more lucrative free-agent market next summer. His resolution, finalized last week, is noted as not impacting the ongoing situation with Jonathan Kuminga.

76ers Eyeing Trades to Create Cap Space for Quentin Grimes Extension

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The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly considering trading Andre Drummond ($5 million) and/or Kelly Oubre ($8.4 million) to open up cap space, aiming to re-sign restricted free agent Quentin Grimes. Grimes thrived in Philadelphia after a February trade from Dallas, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 28 games. While the 76ers want to lock him down for at least three years, Grimes reportedly seeks $20 million or more annually. Paying him could push the team deep into luxury tax aprons, even for a mid-level exception deal. Grimes could opt for his $8.7 million qualifying offer to become an unrestricted free agent next summer, making a salary dump trade potentially crucial for Philadelphia to secure a long-term agreement.

LeBron James Pens Op-Ed Advocating Basketball as Bridge for U.S.-China Diplomacy

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LeBron James, the prominent Los Angeles Lakers superstar, recently authored a rare op-ed that was published in Chinese state media this week. In his commentary, James articulated his belief in basketball's unique ability to serve as an avenue for diplomacy, fostering understanding and bridging existing tensions between the United States and China. His public statement underscores a perspective that sports can transcend political differences and promote positive international relations, offering a unique take on global affairs from an influential athlete.

Tragic News: Sister of Timberwolves' Naz Reid Fatally Shot

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Tragic news has emerged concerning Minnesota Timberwolves player Naz Reid, as his sister was fatally shot at an apartment complex in New Jersey. The incident has led to the arrest and charging of her boyfriend with murder. This deeply saddening event brings a profound personal impact to Reid and casts a somber shadow over the Timberwolves organization as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Lauri Markkanen Leads Finland to Upset Victory Over Serbia in EuroBasket

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Lauri Markkanen, representing the Utah Jazz in the NBA, spearheaded Finland's surprising and impactful victory over Nikola Jokic and the favored Serbian team in the EuroBasket tournament. Markkanen's standout performance was instrumental in securing this significant upset, which saw Finland successfully advance to the quarterfinals of the competition. This triumph not only highlights Finland's strong showing on the international stage but also marks a notable achievement for Markkanen as he led his national team past a top contender.

Spurs Rookie Dylan Harper Undergoes Thumb Surgery, Season Opener Still Possible

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San Antonio Spurs' No. 2 overall draft pick, Dylan Harper, has undergone surgery to repair a partially torn collateral ligament in his left thumb. The injury, sustained during the offseason, required immediate surgical intervention. Despite the procedure, there is optimism that the promising rookie guard might recover in time to make his highly anticipated NBA debut for the Spurs' season opener, scheduled for October 22. The team will closely monitor his rehabilitation process and progress, hoping for a swift and full recovery to integrate him into the lineup as planned.

Knicks Deny Formal Offer to Ben Simmons Amid Search for Reserve Guard

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Reports surfaced that Ben Simmons rejected a contract offer from the New York Knicks for a reserve guard spot, but the Knicks have pushed back, stating no formal offer was made. While dialogue occurred with Simmons' (now former) agent, the two parties were not on the same page. The Knicks are actively looking to fill a roster spot and are now reportedly eyeing Landry Shamet or Malcolm Brogdon, who are considered better shooters. Any potential offer from New York would likely be a veteran minimum contract, possibly without full guarantees.

Monday, September 8, 2025

Ben Simmons Remains Free Agent After Reportedly Rejecting Knicks' Minimum Offer Amid Career Uncertainty

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Ben Simmons, the 29-year-old former No. 1 overall draft pick and three-time All-Star, remains an unsigned free agent despite interest from multiple teams. The New York Knicks reportedly offered him a one-year contract, likely for the veteran minimum ($3.2 million), which Simmons rejected as he hoped for a deal above that threshold. However, SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley reported that no formal offer was made by the Knicks, only dialogue and interest. Boston, Suns, and Kings also reportedly showed interest. Simmons' agent, Bernie Lee, has formally stepped away from representing him. Questions have arisen about Simmons' desire to continue playing in the NBA next season, especially given his persistent back injuries. His on-court performance has declined significantly since 2021; he hasn't made an All-Star team, averaged 7 PPG, played more than 51 games, or attempted 6 shots/game since then. With the Los Angeles Clippers last season after a buyout, he averaged just 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 16.4 minutes over 18 regular-season games, and played only 42 minutes in the playoffs.

Franz Wagner Leads Undefeated Germany as EuroBasket Powerhouse

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Franz Wagner is currently leading powerhouse Germany in EuroBasket 2025, where they are the defending World Cup champions and remain undefeated with a commanding 6-0 record. Wagner is a pivotal player for Germany, leading the team with 20.7 points per game. He also contributes significantly in other statistical categories, tying for the team lead in rebounding with 5.5 boards per game and ranking third in assists with 3.8 per game. While he carries a massive role, he also benefits from a deep and balanced squad that includes Dennis Schroder and Daniel Theis. Germany is set to face Luka Doncic and Slovenia in an upcoming knockout game, with no team having come closer than 19 points to them so far in the tournament.