Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Klay Thompson's dating life was a specific topic of discussion during an episode of the 'Good Word with Goodwill' podcast. Vince and Marc Spears delved into various NBA subjects, including the Warriors' quiet offseason and the Lakers' relationship with LeBron James, while also addressing aspects of Thompson's personal life. This discussion highlighted Klay Thompson's relevance in broader NBA conversations even during the offseason.
LeBron James' future was prominently highlighted as one of the most significant insights and discussion points to emerge from the Las Vegas Summer League. His ongoing career trajectory and potential implications for the league were identified as major topics of interest during the summer exhibition.
Pacers' rookie Johnny Furphy delivered an electrifying highlight in the Summer League, executing a spectacular poster dunk over Noa Essengue. This early contender for dunk of the Summer League showcases Furphy's athletic prowess and provides an exciting moment for the Pacers' fanbase.
Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George underwent a successful arthroscopic procedure on his left knee on July 14th to treat an injury sustained during a recent workout. The surgery, performed by Dr. Jonathan L. Glashow, was an arthroscopic clean-up and did not involve major ligaments. George, who has a history of various injuries including knee and adductor issues, will now begin a rehabilitation program and is expected to be re-evaluated prior to the start of training camp in September, aiming to be fully recovered and ready for the 2025-26 season.
Ivica Zubac is poised to potentially form a powerful 'twin towers' frontcourt for the Clippers with new teammate Brook Lopez. Lopez, who just signed with Los Angeles, expressed excitement about their combined potential, believing he can help Zubac 'go wild' in the paint as a second seven-footer on the court, aiming to bolster the Clippers' presence inside.
Joel Embiid has reportedly resumed partial basketball activities as he continues to recover from a knee injury. This development, according to Tony Jones of The Athletic, marks a positive step in Embiid's rehabilitation process.
Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo has successfully obtained Italian citizenship and is now hopeful to represent Italy at the upcoming FIBA EuroBasket tournament. DiVincenzo had previously attempted to secure citizenship in time for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Jaylen Brown recently engaged in a conversation with his former Boston Celtics teammate, Kyrie Irving. During their discussion, Irving notably shared surprisingly fond memories of his two seasons spent with the Celtics organization.
Nine-time NBA All-Star Kyrie Irving recently shared surprisingly fond memories of his two seasons with the Boston Celtics during a discussion with current Celtics star Jaylen Brown. Despite a tumultuous departure, Irving's reflections indicate a positive perspective on his time in Boston.
Golden State Warriors player Buddy Hield recently recounted a funny anecdote from his trip to Italy. Hield shared that he genuinely believed Maximus from the film 'Gladiator' was a real historical figure during his visit to the Colosseum. He jokingly admitted that his historical understanding was lacking and that his experience at the ancient site wasn't as entertaining as he might have hoped.
Veteran big man Al Horford is reportedly drawing interest from two new teams, who have expressed their desire to sign him. This development comes as Horford continues to be a sought-after player in the current free agency period.
Myles Turner, in a surprising offseason move, has joined the Milwaukee Bucks after spending his entire career with the Indiana Pacers. His departure came after the Pacers' front office grew cautious about a significant raise following Tyrese Haliburton's Achilles injury, with the Bucks facilitating the signing by waiving Damian Lillard's contract. Turner stated he chose the Bucks for their competitiveness, which some interpret as a jab at his former team. He also expressed uncertainty about the reception he'll receive from Pacers fans upon his return to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, acknowledging that some fans had previously desired his departure from the team, a sentiment he described as still being present.
Milwaukee Bucks president Peter Feigin has publicly stated that the team and star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo are in a "good place" despite continuous offseason trade buzz, emphasizing that "Giannis loves Milwaukee, Milwaukee loves Giannis." This assurance from Feigin comes amidst past reports from May where Antetokounmpo was reportedly exploring his long-term fit with the team, though by June, other NBA teams reportedly assumed he wouldn't request a trade. Signs continue to suggest Antetokounmpo will remain in Milwaukee, especially following the Bucks' recent significant free agency acquisition of former Pacers big man Myles Turner on a four-year, $108.8 million contract, which the team views as a factor in their strong position.
Rockets guard Reed Sheppard led his team with 18 points in their Summer League loss to the Pistons on Sunday, July 14th. Despite being the leading scorer, Sheppard faced a challenging performance, tallying six turnovers and shooting just 6-of-19 from the field. His effectiveness was significantly impacted by the defense of Pistons' Daniss Jenkins, especially when Jenkins was on the court, which contributed to a tougher outing than desired for the 2024 third overall pick.
Charles Bassey is making a strong case for a roster spot with the Boston Celtics following an impressive showing in the Summer League. As the Celtics continue their search for additional frontcourt help, Bassey's performance has prompted speculation among observers like Chris Forsberg about his potential to earn a role on the team.
Veteran center Jonas Valančiūnas has officially been acquired by the Denver Nuggets from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Dario Sarič. Despite speculation and an offer of three years and $36 million from Greek club Panathinaikos, Valančiūnas, who has two years left on his current contract, will remain with the Nuggets. The move solidifies Denver's depth, with Valančiūnas expected to play a backup role behind Nikola Jokic, bringing his career averages of 13.1 points and 9.3 rebounds to the team after averaging 10.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists last season for the Wizards and Kings.
LeBron James has opted into his $52.6 million player option, entering his 23rd NBA season on an expiring contract with a no-trade clause, a first in his career. Despite rumors of a strained relationship with Lakers ownership and the team reportedly shifting focus to Luka Dončić, James has declined to comment directly on his future, with his agent Rich Paul confirming James hasn't requested a trade but has drawn interest from four teams. Still a top player at 40, James is also managing increasing injuries and indicated he has about two years left to play, while concurrently mentoring his son, Bronny James, courtside at the NBA Summer League with real-time coaching instructions that influenced Bronny's performance.
Five months after the Dallas Mavericks controversially traded Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers, minority owner Mark Cuban has publicly expressed confidence in General Manager Nico Harrison, who orchestrated the deal. Despite fan protests and the Mavericks missing the playoffs before landing the top pick (Cooper Flagg) in the draft, Cuban defended the move by comparing it to his past decision to let Steve Nash go. While the trade brought Anthony Davis to Dallas, Cuban highlighted Harrison's efforts to strategically manage the team's cap and roster construction under the new CBA, extending players like Daniel Gafford and Kyrie Irving, to ensure future competitiveness, similar to what OKC did with their young stars.
Klay Thompson, coming off his first season with the Dallas Mavericks where he averaged 14 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2 assists, has soft-launched his relationship with Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion during a trip to the Bahamas. Thompson confirmed the relationship by posting photos with Pete on Instagram, including one where they posed together and another holding hands, making the relationship official after initial rumors. The post quickly went viral, drawing humorous reactions from fellow NBA players like Dwight Howard, Quinn Cook, Kevin Durant, and Ty Jerome, to whom Thompson humorously responded, signaling the surprising new pairing.
Damian Lillard, recently waived by the Milwaukee Bucks, is reportedly considering signing with the Boston Celtics, who are actively recruiting him through Jayson Tatum. Lillard, like Tatum, is recovering from a serious Achilles injury that is expected to keep him out for the entire 2025-26 season. The nine-time All-Star, who turns 35 this month, averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists for the Bucks last season before his release, which allowed Milwaukee to sign Myles Turner; Lillard may opt to sit out the upcoming season to fully recover before deciding his next career move.
