Dillon Brooks Signs Three-Year Extension with Phoenix Suns, Becoming Key Long-Term Piece The Phoenix Suns have officially extended Dillon Brooks through the 2027-28 season, securing the 30-year-old forward as a cornerstone of their roster moving forward. The deal, reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, is a fully guaranteed three-year, $73 million contract, with Brooks set to earn approximately $22 million in the first year. The agreement marks a significant step in the Suns’ efforts to stabilize their culture and competitive identity following a transformative 2025-26 season. Brooks, acquired from the Houston Rockets in the Kevin Durant trade last offseason, played a pivotal role in the Suns’ playoff run during the 2025-26 campaign. Despite entering the season on the final year of his previous contract and set to make $21 million, Brooks’ performance and impact were instrumental in the team’s success. His 2025-26 season was his best in nine professional years, during which he averaged 20.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.8 assists for a 45-win team. His contributions helped elevate the Suns’ offense, which was expected to be led by Devin Booker and Jalen Green. However, Brooks’ role extended beyond statistics. Known for his fiery personality and self-proclaimed “villain” persona, he became a cultural catalyst for the Suns. His aggressive style of play, including a league-leading 17 technical fouls in the 2025-26 regular season, earned him suspensions but also drew attention for his intensity. This “agitator” role was particularly evident during the team’s play-in victory and subsequent first-round sweep of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite a hand injury that limited him to just 56 games in the regular season, Brooks averaged 26 points and 6.#shams_charania #phoenix_suns #devin_booker #jalen_green #dillon_brooks
Warriors Won’t Match Grizzlies’ Offer Sheet For Quinten Post The Golden State Warriors have decided not to match the Memphis Grizzlies’ offer sheet for restricted free agent center Quinten Post, according to reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania and Anthony Slater. As a result, Post will officially join the Grizzlies, marking a significant move in the NBA free agency landscape. The decision comes after the Grizzlies signed Post to a three-year, $30 million offer sheet on Monday, just before the July moratorium period ended, leaving the Warriors with less than 36 hours to respond. Post’s contract with Memphis includes a guaranteed $9 million base salary for the 2026/27 season, with additional incentives tied to performance. The deal also features annual bonuses, including $1.35 million in the first year, which are contingent on Post making an All-Defensive team. While these bonuses are not counted against the salary cap, they do factor into a team’s apron salary, complicating the Warriors’ financial calculations as they navigate a potential second-apron hard cap scenario. The final two years of the contract include non-guaranteed $8.5 million base salaries and $1.28 million in bonuses, further reducing its appeal from a cap perspective. Post, a third-year player, developed into a reliable backup big man and part-time starter for the Warriors after being selected with the 52nd overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. During the 2025/26 season, he appeared in 67 games (35 starts), averaging 7.7 points and 4.0 rebounds in 17.3 minutes per game. His shooting efficiency was notable, with a 44% field goal percentage and a 33.6% three-point shooting rate. Despite his contributions, the Warriors issued a qualifying offer of approximately $2.6 million to make him a restricted free agent, hoping to re-sign him.#shams_charania #memphis_grizzlies #golden_state_warriors #quinten_post #anthony_slater
Pistons To Re-Sign Javonte Green Free agent swingman Javonte Green has agreed to return to the Detroit Pistons on a one-year, $3.95 million contract, according to sources cited by Shams Charania of ESPN. The deal, which was confirmed through a Twitter link, marks Green’s second stint with the Pistons after he initially signed with the team in August 2025 on a minimum-salary contract. The Pistons retained Green’s Non-Bird rights following his initial signing, allowing them to re-sign him for up to 120% of his minimum salary. This calculation results in a total contract value of $3,943,679. Green, who will turn 33 later this summer, has spent the past seven years in the NBA, playing for multiple teams including the Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Pistons. He began his professional career as an undrafted free agent, initially playing overseas in Spain, Italy, and Germany before earning a chance with the Celtics in 2019. Despite his journeyman status, Green has consistently been a reliable role player, contributing to teams with his defensive versatility and scoring ability. During his time with the Pistons in the 2025–26 season, Green became the only player on the roster to appear in all 82 games. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, he provided a valuable defensive presence, averaging 6.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 17.6 minutes per game. His shooting efficiency was notable, with a .447/.381/.840 slash line, and nearly 60% of his field goal attempts came from beyond the arc. These numbers underscore his effectiveness as a perimeter shooter and his ability to impact games in limited minutes. The Pistons’ decision to re-sign Green aligns with their broader offseason strategy, which includes re-signing fellow forward Kevin Huerter.#shams_charania #detroit_pistons #javonte_green #non_bird_rights #early_bird_rights
LeBron James leaving Lakers, reportedly plans to return for 24th NBA season with a new team LeBron James is set to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after the 2025-26 season, marking the end of his tenure with the franchise. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, James has informed the Lakers of his decision to seek a new team for the 2026-27 NBA season. The move dispels rumors that James might retire following the 2025-26 campaign at age 41. Prior to free agency, James met with Lakers president Rob Pelinka to discuss his decision, a gesture described as an act of courtesy and appreciation for their shared journey. Despite his age and the physical toll of years in the league, James remained a dominant force, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds in 60 games during the 2025 season. His leadership was pivotal as the Lakers navigated the playoffs, where he formed a formidable trio with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. The trio propelled the Lakers to a No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, a testament to their collective impact. However, the Lakers’ playoff run was cut short in the second round, where they were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder. This loss came after Dončić and Reaves were sidelined, leaving James to carry the team through the first-round series against the Houston Rockets. The Lakers’ future now appears to be reshaped by the departure of key players. With Reaves moving to a new max contract and Dončić assuming a central role, the franchise is entering a new era. James’ absence will leave a significant void, as his ability to elevate teammates and secure victories has been a cornerstone of the Lakers’ success. Throughout his career, James has redefined the standards of excellence in the NBA.#shams_charania #lebron_james #luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #austin_reaves
Knicks, Landry Shamet Agree To Four-Year Deal The New York Knicks and free agent guard Landry Shamet have finalized a four-year, $24 million contract agreement, securing his return to the team for the upcoming season, according to sources close to the situation. The deal, reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, marks a significant move for the Knicks as they aim to retain key role players amid financial constraints and strategic planning for the 2026/27 season. Shamet, who has spent the past two seasons with the Knicks on minimum-salary contracts, returned from a shoulder injury during the 2024/25 season. He made 51 regular-season appearances, averaging 9.3 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 23.0 minutes per game. His three-point shooting has been a consistent strength, with a 39.4% accuracy rate throughout the season. During the Knicks’ title run in the spring, Shamet excelled, hitting 29 of 61 three-point attempts (47.5%) in 19 playoff appearances. The decision to re-sign Shamet comes amid uncertainty about the Knicks’ financial flexibility for the 2026/27 season. Knicks owner James Dolan had previously stated his intention to avoid the second tax apron, a financial threshold that would limit the team’s ability to retain high-profile players. This raised questions about whether the Knicks could afford to keep key role players like Shamet. However, Shamet opted to stay with the team, prioritizing long-term security over potentially higher annual salaries from rival teams. The four-year deal ensures Shamet will receive a substantial amount of guaranteed money, providing stability after several seasons on veteran’s minimum contracts. This move aligns with the Knicks’ strategy to build a roster around minimum-salary players, as outlined by cap expert Yossi Gozlan.#shams_charania #new_york_knicks #landry_shamet #james_dolan #yossi_gozlan
New Knicks Rumors Reveal Landry Shamet Contract Details After 2026 NBA Title The New York Knicks have reportedly finalized a new contract with veteran sharpshooter Landry Shamet, securing his return for the upcoming season. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Shamet is set to sign a four-year, $24 million deal to remain with the team. The agreement comes after the Knicks’ historic 2026 NBA Finals victory, which ended a 53-year championship drought. Shamet, 29, has been a key contributor for the Knicks over the past two seasons, playing a pivotal role in their playoff success. Despite being limited to just 51 games during the 2025-26 season due to a right shoulder sprain, his defensive presence and shooting accuracy made him an essential part of the roster when healthy. During the regular season, he averaged 9.3 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 23.0 minutes per game, shooting 43.7% from the field and 39.2% from beyond the arc. His impact was particularly evident in the postseason, where he stepped up in critical moments. In the Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Shamet delivered a standout performance, hitting 11-of-12 three-pointers in the series. Across the playoffs, he averaged 6.0 points and 1.1 rebounds per game, maintaining a 45.3% field goal efficiency and 47.5% three-point shooting rate. The Knicks’ decision to re-sign Shamet was anticipated, as ESPN’s Tim Bontemps noted on May 28 that there was “belief” he would return to New York. The move underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining their championship-winning roster, with Shamet’s experience and shooting ability providing a reliable option off the bench.#shams_charania #new_york_knicks #landry_shamet #eastern_confrence_finals #2026_nba_finals
Raptors' Sandro Mamukelashvili to Decline $2.8MM Player Option The Toronto Raptors’ big man, Sandro Mamukelashvili, has decided to decline his $2.8 million player option for the 2026/27 season, according to agents George Roussakis and Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports, as reported by Shams Charania of ESPN. This move comes after Mamukelashvili played under a $2.5 million veteran’s minimum contract this season, a deal he significantly outperformed. Analysts and insiders suggest he is likely to secure a multiyear contract worth more than $10 million annually, as noted by Josh Lewenberg of TSN. Mamukelashvili’s decision to walk away from the guaranteed money reflects his strong performance this season, which positioned him as a free agent with substantial market value. The 27-year-old forward appeared in 80 games (13 starts) and averaged 11.2 points and 4.9 rebounds in 21.9 minutes per night. His shooting efficiency was notable, with a 52.3% field goal percentage and 38.9% three-point shooting rate. These numbers earned him consideration for Sixth Man of the Year ballots, highlighting his impact despite limited playing time. The Raptors, who have expressed interest in re-signing Mamukelashvili, face challenges in structuring a competitive offer. The team reportedly plans to allocate around $10 million annually to retain him but would need to make adjustments elsewhere in the salary cap to do so. This situation is further complicated by Toronto’s reported pursuit of free agent Kawhi Leonard, which could influence their financial flexibility. Mamukelashvili’s journey to the Raptors began in 2021 when he signed a two-way contract with the Milwaukee Bucks.#shams_charania #toronto_raptors #sandro_mamukelashvili #george_roussakis #mark_bartelstein
Los Angeles Lakers' Austin Reaves Set to Sign Historic 4-Year, $185M Max Contract The Los Angeles Lakers have reached an agreement with guard Austin Reaves to extend his career with the franchise through a four-year, $185 million maximum contract, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal includes a player option for the final season in 2029-30, marking the most lucrative contract in NBA history for an undrafted player. Reaves, 28, declined his $14.9 million player option for the 2023-24 season to facilitate this new agreement, which is projected to make him the highest-paid player in league history for an undrafted athlete. The negotiations, which spanned the past 10 days, involved Lakers ownership and front-office representatives meeting with Reaves and his agents, Aaron Reilly and Reggie Berry of AMR Agency, at the team’s practice facility shortly after the NBA Finals. The discussions included personal gestures such as customized “AR”-initialed pillows and Reaves’ favorite country music, reflecting the Lakers’ commitment to securing his long-term future. A source close to Reaves described his emotional reaction as “great relief,” emphasizing his desire to remain with the team and contribute to its success. Reaves’ return to the Lakers is a significant milestone for the franchise, as the contract is structured to align with the team’s financial projections. The deal does not affect the Lakers’ cap flexibility this summer, as the team’s projected salary space already accounts for Reaves’ $20.9 million cap hold. He will sign the contract last, after the Lakers exhaust their available cap space, and will earn $41.3 million in the first year. This move ensures Reaves remains under the team’s control for the next four seasons, with the player option allowing him to decide his future in 2029-30.#shams_charania #los_angeles_lakers #rob_pelinka #austin_reaves #amr_agency
Trae Young to Sign 4-Year, $212 Million Extension with Wizards Trae Young, the Atlanta Hawks’ star guard, is set to rejoin the Washington Wizards after reportedly agreeing to a four-year, $212 million contract extension, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal, which comes days after Young declined a $49 million player option to stay with the Wizards, marks a significant move for both the player and the franchise. Young, 27, had previously struggled with injuries during the 2025-26 NBA season, which limited his playing time and performance. Young’s tenure with the Wizards began in late 2025 after being traded by the Hawks following a season marred by knee injuries. He made only five starts for the Wizards before missing the remainder of the season due to back and quad issues. His average of 15.2 points per game during his brief stint fell far below his career output of 25.2 points per game. The injuries, which contrasted with his generally healthy history prior to the 2025-26 season, were a major factor in his underwhelming performance. Despite the challenges, the Wizards’ decision to retain Young aligns with their long-term strategy. The team, which finished the 2025-26 season with a dismal 17-65 record, acquired Young and Anthony Davis in a blockbuster trade from the Dallas Mavericks. However, both players faced significant injury setbacks during their time with the franchise. Davis, who was traded to the Wizards in the same deal, failed to play a single game for the team after the trade, further complicating the Wizards’ rebuilding efforts. The Wizards’ poor performance in the 2025-26 season led to them securing the NBA Draft lottery, giving them the No. 1 overall pick in a highly anticipated draft.#shams_charania #dallas_mavericks #wizards #trae_young #anthony_davis
CJ McCollum stays with Hawks on 1-year, $21M extension Atlanta Hawks guard CJ McCollum has agreed to a one-year, $21 million contract extension with the franchise, his agent confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal includes a trade kicker, according to agent Sam Goldfeder of Excel Sports Management. McCollum, 34, was traded from the Washington Wizards to the Hawks in January as part of the Trae Young deal. The veteran guard became a key contributor for Atlanta, helping the team secure a 2-1 series lead against the eventual NBA champion New York Knicks in the first round of the playoffs. McCollum’s performance during the playoffs was pivotal. His 15-foot fadeaway with 12.7 seconds remaining in Game 3 of the series secured a crucial victory for the Hawks. Additionally, his 32-point outburst in Game 2 against the Knicks played a major role in Atlanta’s win. These contributions highlighted his value to the team during the postseason. Beyond the playoffs, McCollum was instrumental in a late-season surge that propelled the Hawks to a playoff berth. During this stretch, the team went 18-2 in 20 games, with McCollum serving as a steady presence. Last season, the 13-year veteran averaged 18.7 points per game while shooting 35.7% from beyond the arc in 41 games with the Hawks. His ability to consistently hit three-pointers has been a hallmark of his career, marking the 11th consecutive season in which he made at least 150 three-pointers. McCollum is the only player to achieve this feat in every season since the 2015-16 campaign. The contract extension ensures McCollum remains with the Hawks past June 30, when he would have otherwise become a free agent.#shams_charania #atlanta_hawks #trae_young #cj_mccollum #excel_sports_management
Philadelphia 76ers Star Joel Embiid Out for Game 2 Against Knicks Due to Ankle and Hip Injuries The Philadelphia 76ers will face the New York Knicks in Game 2 of their playoff series on Wednesday without one of their most pivotal players. Center Joel Embiid has been ruled out for the matchup due to lingering ankle and hip injuries, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. This development comes after Embiid contributed 14 points in 25 minutes during the 76ers’ 137-98 loss to the Knicks in Game 1. Embiid’s absence marks another setback for the 76ers, who have relied heavily on his scoring and playmaking throughout the postseason. The 28-year-old forward has battled recurring injuries throughout his career, limiting him to just 38 games during the regular season. His availability for the playoffs has been a topic of concern, as his health has directly impacted the team’s performance. The injury news adds pressure to the 76ers’ coaching staff, who will need to adjust their strategy without Embiid’s presence. The Knicks, meanwhile, will look to capitalize on their opponent’s struggles, particularly in a series where momentum could shift dramatically. Embiid’s potential return remains uncertain, with the team likely to monitor his condition closely in the coming days. The decision to sit Embiid reflects the delicate balance between protecting his long-term health and maintaining competitive performance. While the 76ers have shown resilience in the early stages of the playoffs, the absence of their star player could test their depth and adaptability. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team responds to this challenge. This situation also highlights the broader challenges teams face in managing star players’ health during high-stakes seasons.#shams_charania #new_york_knicks #philadelphia_76ers #joel_embiid #playoff_series
Kelsey Plum Signs One-Year Deal to Return to Los Angeles Sparks Four-time WNBA All-Star and two-time champion Kelsey Plum has signed a one-year, $999,999 contract to return to the Los Angeles Sparks, according to sources who shared the details with ESPN’s Shams Charania on Sunday. The deal marks Plum’s return to the Sparks after a single season with the San Antonio Stars/Las Vegas Aces franchise, where she spent her entire career prior to this move. The decision to accept a discounted rate instead of the projected $1.4 million supermax was made to provide the Sparks with financial flexibility to construct a roster capable of competing for a championship. Plum, a 5-foot-8 guard, averaged 19.5 points and 5.7 assists during her first season with the Sparks in 2024. Her arrival in Los Angeles was significant, as she became the team’s clear-cut star and a key figure in the effort to revive the franchise. The Sparks, one of the WNBA’s original teams, have not advanced past the playoffs since 2020, marking the longest active playoff drought in the league. Plum’s return aims to help the organization reclaim its storied status and end this extended dry spell. Prior to joining the Sparks, Plum was a cornerstone of the Las Vegas Aces’ core that secured consecutive WNBA titles in 2022 and 2023. She was drafted No. 1 overall in 2017 by the Aces, who later rebranded as the Sparks in 2024. Her tenure with the Aces included holding the NCAA scoring record (3,527 points) before Caitlin Clark surpassed it in 2024. Plum’s contributions to the Aces’ success were pivotal, but her decision to pivot to the Sparks reflects her desire to challenge for titles in a new environment. Plum’s career is defined by accolades and versatility.#shams_charania #los_angeles_sparks #las_vegas_aces #kelsey_plum #san_antonio_stars
Mavericks Dispute Redick's Claim They Erred With Reaves' MRI The Dallas Mavericks have denied Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick’s assertion that their medical team conducted an MRI on Austin Reaves in an incorrect manner, sparking a dispute over the procedure’s accuracy. Redick, speaking after the Lakers’ practice session at Southern Methodist University on Saturday, claimed the Mavericks’ staff scanned the wrong area of Reaves’ body, leading to a second MRI to diagnose a Grade 2 left oblique strain. The Mavericks responded in a statement released to DLLS Sports and later shared with ESPN, insisting their medical team adhered to standard imaging protocols and made no errors during the initial scan. In a statement provided to ESPN, the Mavericks emphasized that their medical team followed established procedures based on the information available at the time. “There was no error in the scan performed,” the team said, clarifying their stance on the matter. Redick, however, accused the Mavericks of misexecuting the scan, stating that the Lakers had explicitly communicated the area to be imaged but that the Mavericks’ team failed to comply. “I don’t know where the chain of command lies with Dallas imaging, but they scanned the wrong area,” Redick said, adding that the mistake was not on the Lakers’ side. The Lakers’ spokesperson declined to comment further on the incident when asked by ESPN on Tuesday. However, Redick’s tone shifted when addressing the situation ahead of the Lakers’ game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday. “In the end, we got the image we needed,” he said, expressing appreciation for the Mavericks’ cooperation. He also noted that the Lakers had similarly assisted the Mavericks in previous instances, highlighting a mutual effort to support each other’s teams during the season.#shams_charania #los_angeles_lakers #jj_redick #dallas_mavericks #austin_reaves
Thunder's Jalen Williams Expected to Return Against 76ers Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams is set to rejoin the team’s lineup for tonight’s matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, according to reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania. The 26-year-old forward, who has been sidelined since mid-February due to a hamstring injury, will take the court for the 7:00 ET game, which will be broadcast on NBA League Pass. He was not listed on the NBA’s official injury report as of Wednesday afternoon. Williams’ absence has significantly impacted his season, as he has played in just 26 games so far in the 2025-26 campaign. The injury timeline began during the Thunder’s Jan. 17 game against the Miami Heat, when he suffered a hamstring strain after attempting to retrieve an awkward pass in the second quarter. He was ruled out of that contest and missed the next 10 games. Prior to that, Williams had already missed the first 19 games of the season while recovering from offseason wrist surgery to repair a torn ligament. Despite the setbacks, Williams has remained a key contributor for the Thunder. This season, he is averaging 17.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game while shooting 47.9% from the field. His performance has been a bright spot for a team that has struggled with injuries this season. Last season, Williams was a standout performer, earning All-Star honors, a third-team All-NBA selection, and a second-team All-Defense nod. He played a pivotal role in the Thunder’s championship run, showcasing his versatility and leadership on the court. His return to the lineup is a significant boost for Oklahoma City, especially as they prepare for the postseason.#shams_charania #oklahoma_city_thunder #jalen_williams #philadelphia_76ers #nba_league_pass
Markelle Fultz Signs 10-Day Contract with Toronto Raptors Markelle Fultz has agreed to a 10-day contract with the Toronto Raptors, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. The deal comes after Fultz recently joined the G League, providing him with an opportunity to return to the NBA. With Immanuel Quickley sidelined due to a foot injury, Fultz may be in line to make his debut for the Raptors in the upcoming game against the Utah Jazz. The move marks a swift transition for Fultz, who was previously with the G League team. The Raptors’ decision to activate him suggests they see potential in his ability to contribute, particularly with Quickley’s absence. Fultz’s return to the NBA could offer a short-term solution for the team, allowing him to gain playing time while the roster adjusts to the injury situation. The 10-day contract is a common practice in the NBA, giving teams flexibility to evaluate players without long-term commitments. For Fultz, it represents a chance to reestablish himself in the league and showcase his skills at the NBA level. His potential debut against the Jazz will be a key moment in determining his readiness to contribute to the Raptors’ roster. This development highlights the dynamic nature of NBA rosters, where players can move between teams and leagues to stay competitive. Fultz’s situation underscores the importance of depth and adaptability in professional basketball, as teams often rely on short-term contracts to address immediate needs. The Raptors’ decision to bring him in reflects their strategic approach to managing injuries and maintaining roster flexibility.#shams_charania #toronto_raptors #g_league #utah_jazz #markelle_fultz
Former No. 1 Pick Markelle Fultz Signs 10-Day Contract With Raptors Markelle Fultz, the former No. 1 overall draft pick, has signed a 10-day contract with the Toronto Raptors, according to Raymond Brothers of I Am Sports & Entertainment, who shared the news with ESPN’s Shams Charania on Monday. The deal comes as the Raptors look to bolster their roster during the regular season. Fultz, 27, last played in the NBA during the 2022-23 season, appearing in 21 games for the Sacramento Kings. He spent the majority of this season with the Raptors 905, the team’s G League affiliate, where he gained additional playing time. His NBA career has been marked by recurring injuries since being selected by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2017. In his first two seasons with the 76ers, he appeared in fewer than 20 games each year. Despite the setbacks, Fultz has developed into a reliable defensive guard with the ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. His most productive season came during his time with the Orlando Magic in 2022-23, when he averaged 14 points and 5.7 assists per game while shooting 51.4% from the field. His performance in that season highlighted his potential as a versatile playmaker and defender. The Raptors are currently in a competitive race within the Eastern Conference, vying with teams like the Atlanta Hawks, 76ers, Magic, Miami Heat, and Hornets to secure a playoff spot. Adding Fultz to the roster for a short-term contract could provide the team with depth and experience as they navigate the challenging schedule ahead.#shams_charania #toronto_raptors #markelle_fultz #raymond_brothers #raptors_905
Dennis Rodman Announced for WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Dennis Rodman has been officially named as a member of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026, with the announcement made by ESPN’s Shams Charania. The former NBA star, known for his five championships with the Detroit Pistons and Chicago Bulls, will be honored for his impact on professional wrestling. Rodman’s career in WWE began in 1997 when he joined the New World Order (nWo) in WCW, a move that brought him into the spotlight as “Rodzilla.” His tenure in the promotion included high-profile matches and alliances, most notably his partnership with Hulk Hogan. Rodman’s time in WCW was marked by memorable moments, including a dramatic appearance during the 1998 NBA Finals. After the Bulls defeated the Utah Jazz in Game 3, Rodman skipped a practice session to appear on WCW Monday Nitro in Detroit. There, he and Hogan attacked Diamond Dallas Page, a moment that underscored his willingness to push boundaries. The following year, Rodman teamed with Hogan again to face Karl Malone and DDP at the 1998 Bash at the Beach event. His rivalry with Hogan also extended to a notable match against Randy “Macho Man” Savage at WCW Road Wild in 1999, a clash that highlighted his charisma and in-ring presence. Beyond his in-ring work, Rodman’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame recognizes his broader influence on the wrestling industry. His transition from basketball to wrestling was unconventional, yet he became a fan favorite for his larger-than-life personality and athleticism. The 2026 WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony will take place on April 17 in Las Vegas, coinciding with WrestleMania 42 week. This event will celebrate not only Rodman’s contributions but also his legacy as a trailblazer who bridged the gap between sports and entertainment.#shams_charania #las_vegas #wwe_hall_of_fame #dennis_rodman #new_world_order
Detroit Pistons Star Cade Cunningham to Miss Extended Time With Collapsed Lung Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham has been diagnosed with a collapsed lung and is expected to miss an extended period of time, according to sources who spoke to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The injury, described as mild, has left the team uncertain about the timeline for his return. The Pistons, who entered Thursday with the best record in the Eastern Conference, are still gathering information on Cunningham’s condition and have not yet determined how long he will be sidelined. Cunningham, a two-time All-Star guard, left Tuesday’s game against the Washington Wizards with what the team initially reported as back spasms. The injury occurred early in the first quarter when he dove for a loose ball. He played for a few minutes before being taken out of the game midway through the quarter. The Pistons are set to face the Washington Wizards on Thursday, a game that could impact their position in the Eastern Conference standings. Despite the injury, there is some optimism that Cunningham could return in time for the start of the NBA playoffs, which begin on April 18. The 24-year-old is among the leaders in the NBA MVP race, averaging 24.5 points and 9.9 assists per game this season. His performance has been instrumental in the Pistons’ success, as they currently hold a 49-19 record. However, Cunningham has played in 61 games, falling just short of the 65-game threshold required to be eligible for league awards such as MVP, All-NBA teams, and Defensive Player of the Year. The Pistons are 3.5 games ahead of the Boston Celtics, who lead the Eastern Conference at 46-23. Cunningham’s absence could test the team’s depth, particularly as they aim to secure a top seed for the playoffs.#shams_charania #washington_wizards #cade_cunningham #detroit_pistons #nba_playoffs
NBA to Vote on Seattle Sonics Expansion Team The NBA is set to vote on whether to bring back the Seattle Sonics as an expansion team, marking a potential return to the city after 18 years. ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported that the league’s Board of Governors will hold a vote on March 24-25 to explore adding teams in Seattle and Las Vegas. If approved, the expansion would target the 2028-29 NBA season, with a growing number of owners now supporting the move. Charania emphasized that Seattle and Las Vegas’ market appeal, combined with a “parity-friendly collective bargaining agreement,” could create a strong purchase market for new franchises. The vote represents the first step in expanding the league to 32 teams. A final decision is expected later this year, requiring 23 of 30 governors to approve. NBA commissioner Adam Silver has previously stated that a decision on expansion will be made by the end of 2026. In December, Silver confirmed the league is evaluating both Seattle and Las Vegas, while also considering other markets. He cautioned against speculation, noting the process has been discussed for years. The absence of the NBA in Seattle since 2008 has been a topic of discussion. The Sonics were relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, where they became the Thunder. Seattle’s hopes for a return were bolstered by the opening of Climate Pledge Arena in 2022, built on the site of the former Key Arena. The arena now hosts the NHL’s Seattle Kraken and is seen as a key factor in attracting the NBA back. The SuperSonics’ legacy includes their 1979 NBA Finals victory over the Washington Bullets, Seattle’s first major pro sports championship. Adding teams to Seattle and Las Vegas would require significant financial investment, with expansion fees potentially exceeding $6 billion.#shams_charania #nba #adam_silver #climate_pledge_arena #seattle_sonics
Kings sign former lottery pick Killian Hayes to a two-year contract The Sacramento Kings have agreed to a two-year contract with guard Killian Hayes, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Hayes, who was selected with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft, previously played in 10 games for the Kings during two 10-day contracts. His new deal marks a significant step in his career, transitioning from short-term assignments to a long-term commitment with the team. Hayes, who has spent time with multiple franchises since entering the league, will now focus on establishing himself as a regular contributor for Sacramento. The Kings’ decision to extend him reflects confidence in his potential to develop within their system. While details about his role or specific terms of the contract were not disclosed, the move underscores the team’s efforts to build depth and address needs in the backcourt. The 23-year-old player’s journey to this point has included stints with the New Orleans Pelicans, Brooklyn Nets, and Dallas Mavericks, where he has gradually gained experience. His ability to adapt to different systems and contribute in limited opportunities has positioned him as a valuable asset for the Kings. With the team aiming to strengthen its roster ahead of the 2025 season, Hayes’ signing aligns with their strategic goals. The deal also highlights the evolving nature of NBA free agency, where players with upside and potential often secure opportunities through mid-level contracts. For Hayes, this represents a fresh start with a team that has shown willingness to invest in younger talent. As he prepares to join the Kings, the focus will be on his ability to translate his skills into consistent performance on the court.#shams_charania #sacramento_kings #brooklyn_nets #new_orleans_pelicans #killian_hayes
