Shams Charania Takes Over at ESPN

In what feels like the NBA insider version of a blockbuster trade, Shams Charania announced he's taking his talents to ESPN. After years of competing with his mentor-turned-rival Adrian Wojnarowski, Shams is now joining the same network where Woj was king until, well, Woj decided to swap his media badge for a GM suit at St. Bonaventure.

Charania wrote on social media:

As rivals, Charania and Wojnarowski were the two leaders in NBA breaking news, and each amassed massive social media followings from fans looking to stay on top of the news as it broke. With Wojnarowski's retirement from the industry, Charania joins ESPN as the leading voice in basketball breaking news.

Wendell Carter Jr. Secures the Bag

The Orlando Magic locked down their big man Wendell Carter Jr. for the long haul with a nice 3-year, $59 million extension. This deal keeps him with the Magic through the 2028-29 season for a grand total of $82 million.

Carter, 25, has been a key piece in the Magic’s ongoing rebuild, averaging 11 points and 6.9 rebounds last season. The future looks bright for the Magic with Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and now Carter leading the charge in Orlando’s frontcourt.

But the real question is: Can the Magic finally pull a disappearing act on their losing seasons? Only time will tell.

Pat Riley Gets the Ultimate Tribute in Miami

Pat Riley is getting his flowers on the floor. The Miami Heat announced they are naming their court after the man who made Heat Culture a household name. Riley’s fingerprints are all over the franchise’s success, and now his name will be all over the court at Kaseya Center.

From leading the Heat to their first championship in 2006 to orchestrating the LeBron-Wade-Bosh era and snagging three titles, Riley has done it all. The next time you watch a Heat game, know that every dunk, three-pointer, and clutch play is happening on Pat Riley Court. Maybe we’ll see Jimmy Butler do a tribute by slicking back his hair and breaking out the Armani suits? (OK, maybe not.)

NBA Preseason

Sixers Blowout the Breakers

The 2024-25 preseason kicked off with a bang for the Sixers, as they cruised to a dominant 139-84 victory over New Zealand's Breakers. Tyrese Maxey looked unstoppable, dropping 15 points in the first quarter alone while drilling 4 out of 5 threes.

And in case you were wondering, no, Joel Embiid and Paul George didn’t even need to suit up for this one. They’re saving their energy for when it really matters, maybe the Breakers should’ve done the same.

Ja Morant’s Ankle Drama in Memphis

The Grizzlies took on the Mavericks, but the real story? Ja Morant’s ankle… again. The man can fly, but landing is starting to be an issue. After tweaking his ankle twice, Ja hit the bench for good, giving the “I’m done” signal after the second roll.

Memphis is hoping this is just a minor setback for their superstar as they look to bounce back this season. Stay tuned, because Ja isn’t the only Grizz player on injury watch.

Bucks’ Offseason Gem Injured

The Milwaukee Bucks thought they hit the jackpot with Gary Trent Jr. this offseason, signing him to a steal of a deal for just $2.6 million. Fresh off a season averaging 13.7 points and shooting a scorching 39.3% from deep, Trent was expected to be a key starter alongside Damian Lillard. But the Bucks’ preseason opener took a rough turn when Trent hyperextended his elbow after a run-in with Jalen Duren. In just 13 minutes, Trent knocked down two quick threes and looked ready to dominate the season, but now the Bucks are holding their breath.

With no update yet on his status, coach Doc Rivers might need to call on Pat Connaughton, AJ Green, or Delon Wright to fill the void.

Caitlin Clark Swaps Basketball for Golf Clubs

From WNBA Rookie of the Year to... professional golfer? Well, not quite, but Caitlin Clark isn’t shy about her love for golf! After the Indiana Fever's playoff run ended, Clark declared her offseason plans: “Play golf until it gets too cold.” And now, she’s making good on that promise, heading to the LPGA’s The Annika in November. Clark will not only play in the pro-am but also speak at the Women’s Leadership Summit.

"I’m pumped to tee it up with Annika Sorenstam and hang with LPGA pros," Clark said, probably while lining up her perfect swing. It seems this WNBA star is just as competitive on the greens as she is on the hardwood. Who knows, maybe we’ll see Clark adding a golf trophy next to her WNBA accolades soon!

That’s all for today, thanks for reading.

We’ll see you tomorrow!

— The Players Unlimited Team