Franz Wagner is Taking The Leap

Orlando Magic fans got a game for the ages Thursday as Franz Wagner drilled a clutch 3-pointer with 2.5 seconds left to seal a 119-118 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

Despite being without Paolo Banchero, Wendell Carter Jr., and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, the Magic looked sharp, snapping the Lakers’ six-game winning streak. Wagner was the hero, dropping 37 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter, and Jalen Suggs added 23 points to cap a strong team effort.

The Lakers had their chances late but faltered at the free-throw line. Anthony Davis, who led the team with 39 points, missed two critical free throws with 19 seconds left. LeBron James added 31 points, including 14 in the fourth, but his heroics couldn’t save the night.

With seven wins in their last eight games, Orlando’s young core is turning heads. Franz Wagner’s star power continues to rise, proving this team is no longer just about potential, they’re contenders in the East.

While James and Davis are still dominating late-game situations, their missed free throws showed cracks. If they can’t clean up these late-game mistakes, it could cost them more than just one game.

Brandon Miller’s Career Night Lifts Hornets in OT

Rookie Brandon Miller had the game of his life, dropping a career-high 38 points draining eight 3-pointers in Charlotte’s nail-biting 123-121 win over Detroit.

LaMelo Ball was electrifying as usual, scoring 35 points before fouling out one second into overtime. He carried the Hornets during a crucial stretch in the third quarter to keep the game close.

Cade Cunningham had 27 points and 10 assists before leaving with a hip injury late in regulation. Despite Cunningham’s absence, Detroit’s resilience nearly flipped the script after trailing by 20 earlier in the game.

Miller’s eighth and final 3-pointer sealed the win, putting Charlotte up by six with 32 seconds left in overtime.

Raptors Keep Wolves Winless in Toronto

The Toronto Raptors continued their incredible dominance over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Toronto, securing a hard-fought 110-105 victory. RJ Barrett led the charge with 31 points, showing poise and leadership down the stretch.

The game also marked the return of Scottie Barnes, sporting protective glasses after an 11-game absence. Barnes chipped in 17 points and dished out six assists, providing a much-needed spark for the Raptors. Jakob Poeltl was a steady presence inside, notching his fourth consecutive double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds, while Chris Boucher added 22 points off the bench in a strong supporting role.

Despite their efforts, Minnesota couldn’t overcome Toronto’s 20-game home winning streak against the Wolves, a drought dating back to 2004. The Timberwolves’ offensive push in the second half wasn’t enough to overcome their early struggles, extending their long-standing futility in Toronto.

Celtics Visit the White House

The Boston Celtics took their 18th NBA title to new heights on the South Lawn of the White House. President Joe Biden, a lifelong Celtics fan, welcomed the champs with open arms.

In true Boston fashion, the festivities included a performance of Shipping Up to Boston and a crowd filled with Massachusetts VIPs, including Governor Maura Healey and Senator Ed Markey.

Jayson Tatum and Derrick White presented Biden with a No. 46 Celtics jersey, which Biden graciously accepted before tossing a commemorative ball to his guests.

While the team basked in the moment, they also took the opportunity to discuss important causes with administration officials, showing that their impact goes beyond basketball.

Biden didn’t hold back on his admiration:

With the team’s historic 64-win season and dominant playoff run, it’s clear they’ve earned the accolade.

DeMar DeRozan Expected to Return for Kings

The Sacramento Kings could get a much-needed boost as DeMar DeRozan is set to return Friday against the Clippers. After missing three games with a lower back injury, DeRozan is eager to get back on the court.

Despite his absence, the Kings have battled through injuries to key players like Domantas Sabonis and Malik Monk, sitting at 8-7.

DeRozan has been a bright spot in his first season with Sacramento, averaging 22.9 points on an efficient 52.6% shooting. His return could help the Kings find consistency in what has been an up-and-down start to their season.

Luka Doncic Sidelined with Wrist Strain

The Dallas Mavericks star will miss at least a week after being diagnosed with a right wrist strain. Luka Doncic, who downplayed the injury following Tuesday’s win over the Pelicans, is now set to miss key games against the Nuggets, Heat, Hawks, and Knicks.

Doncic has been a force this season, averaging 28.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game. His absence will test Dallas’ depth as they navigate a tough stretch without their primary playmaker.

With Doncic out, expect Kyrie Irving to shoulder an even bigger load offensively. Can the Mavericks stay competitive in Luka’s absence? Only time will tell.

Caitlin Clark Joins Bid for NWSL Team in Cincinnati

Caitlin Clark is adding potential team owner to her growing list of accolades. The Indiana Fever rookie phenom is part of the ownership group bidding to bring an NWSL expansion team to Cincinnati. With a decision expected by the end of the year, Cincinnati is seen as a frontrunner for the 16th NWSL team, set to debut in 2026 alongside Boston.

The bid is led by the ownership group of FC Cincinnati, which boasts an existing, soccer-specific stadium, an advantage over competing cities like Cleveland, Denver, and Philadelphia, which would rely on temporary venues initially. The NWSL expansion fee could approach $100 million, nearly double what recent entrants Boston and Bay FC paid.

The reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year and All-WNBA First Team selection has become a symbol of elevating women’s sports.

Looking Forward, Not Back

Two months after her exit as Chicago Sky head coach, Teresa Weatherspoon is embracing the next phase of her career with resilience and optimism. Speaking as a new coach in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league, Weatherspoon reflected on her journey, emphasizing personal growth and her unwavering passion for player development.

Her stint with the Sky ended after a challenging 13-27 season, but Weatherspoon has no regrets:

Weatherspoon’s transition to the 3-on-3 league highlights her dedication to the game, particularly in nurturing young talent.

That’s all for today, thanks for reading.

We’ll see you on Monday!

— The Players Unlimited Team