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Articles by Mathias Lessort
NBA executive says Spurs would be title favorites if they land Giannis
A major trade scenario is starting to gain traction in NBA circles, linking two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo with the San Antonio Spurs. Team: Milwaukee Bucks Position: PF Age: 30 Height: 211 cm Weight: 98 kg Birth place: Athens, Greece According to Sam Vecenie of The Athletic, while the Spurs are expected to keep the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, multiple league sources brought up Antetokounmpo as a potential trade target for San Antonio.
Kevin Punter explains his final shot in Game 5 against Monaco
Kevin Punter spoke about the final possession in FC Barcelona EuroLeague Playoff loss to AS Monaco, a play that still sparks debate among fans. Player of the Game EFF 21 Georgios Papagiannis Points 17 Accuracy 7-8 Rebounds 5 Assists 0 With Monaco up 85-84 and just 7 seconds left, Punter grabbed a rebound and quickly pushed the ball up the floor. Instead of driving or passing, he took a deep three-point shot from around 8 meters with Georgios Papagiannis defending him.
Jonas Valanciunas reveals other trade destinations before Kings deal
Jonas Valanciunas recently shared details about how he learned of his trade to the Sacramento Kings. Team: Sacramento Kings Position: C Age: 33 Height: 211 cm Weight: 120 kg Birth place: Utena, Lithuania The veteran center revealed that his close teammate on the National team, Domantas Sabonis, played a key role in breaking the news and that there were other teams interested in him. “I found out I was going to Domas (Sabonis),” JV said during a Lithuanian podcast with BasketNews.
Jonas Valanciunas on sitting out games: 'That’s not how I was raised'
Sacramento Kings center Jonas Valanciunas opened up about the physical toll of his long NBA career and the different mindset players have today when it comes to injuries and resting during the season. Points made: 30,4 Accuracy: 55,4% Place in standings: 3 Record max: 44 Record min: 14 Most made 2FGs: De'Aaron Fox With over 13 seasons and about 900 games played, the veteran center said his body definitely feels the wear and tear.
Michael Porter Jr. addresses shoulder injury after Game 6 win
Michael Porter Jr. updated on his shoulder injury after the Denver Nuggets Game 6 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, admitting the injury has affected his shooting confidence. Credit: Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images North America/Getty Images via AFP - Scanpix Michael Porter Jr. gave an update on his shoulder injury following the Denver Nuggets 119-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals.
Mathias Lessort on playing in Final Four: 'I can’t say anything yet'
Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens fans are eagerly awaiting the team's clash against Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul in the upcoming EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi. But one big question remains — will center Mathias Lessort be able to take the court? MIN: 26.57 PTS: 13.41 (67.62%) REB: 7.06 As: 1.59 ST: 1 BL: 0.71 TO: 1.94 GM: 17 Lessort spoke on his participation in the Final Four at the 22nd Elite Basketball Tournament.
City Council member proposes renaming airport after Gregg Popovich
San Antonio may soon honor one of its greatest basketball icons in a big way. This week, city council member Manny Pelaez officially submitted a proposal to rename the San Antonio International Airport after legendary Spurs coach Gregg Popovich.
Daryl Morey confirms Sixers plan to use No. 3 pick in 2025 NBA Draft
With the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft secured, Philadelphia 76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey is making it clear — the Sixers plan to keep and use the pick. Points made: 17,5 Accuracy: 78,0% Place in standings: 9 Record max: 40 Record min: 6 Most made FTs: Tyrese Maxey Morey joined NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Take Off Podcast just days after the draft lottery, where the Sixers landed the third overall selection behind the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks.
Stephen Curry speaks out on Jonathan Kuminga’s future with Warriors
The Golden State Warriors are staring down a pivotal offseason, and while the spotlight always shines on superstar Stephen Curry, it’s the future of one of the team’s most promising young players, Jonathan Kuminga, that’s now getting interesting.
Joe Dumars denies Zion Williamson trade mandate rumors
Rumors have been swirling that recent front office changes within the New Orleans Pelicans organization could lead to further roster moves — potentially involving their star, Zion Williamson. Points made: 28,6 Accuracy: 51,8% Place in standings: 14 Record max: 39 Record min: 19 Most made 2FGs: C.J. McCollum However, newly appointed Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars quickly shut down speculation that he might push for a Williamson trade.
Joe Mazzulla gives one-word, nonchalant response to viral Tatum moment in Game 1
Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla went viral after Game 1 of the first-round playoff series against the Orlando Magic for a fiery moment in which he screamed at Jayson Tatum to get up quickly following an apparent wrist injury. MIN: 36.49 PTS: 26.7 (53.24%) REB: 8.73 As: 5.96 ST: 1.05 BL: 0.53 TO: 2.86 GM: 73 After Tatum remained on the floor for several seconds, Boston’s medical staff began to approach him. However, Mazzulla intervened and shouted at Tatum to get up instead.
Jayson Tatum injury update: status for Game 2 up in the air
Boston Celtics star forward Jayson Tatum has suffered an injury in the Game 1 win against the Orlando Magic, 103-86, in the first round of the playoffs. Team: Boston Celtics Position: SF Age: 27 Height: 203 cm Weight: 93 kg Birth place: St. Louis, United States of America According to Shams Charania of ESPN, Tatum underwent an MRI on his right shooting-hand wrist and has been diagnosed with a bruised bone in his wrist.
Anthony Edwards receives hefty fine for vulgar outburst at Lakers fan
Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards has been fined $50,000 for directing inappropriate language and making an obscene gesture toward a fan during their recent game against the Los Angeles Lakers. MIN: 36.33 PTS: 27.49 (53.75%) REB: 5.73 As: 4.6 ST: 1.15 BL: 0.64 TO: 3.13 GM: 80 In the team’s Game 1 victory over the Lakers, 117-95, Edwards had a heated exchange with a fan who was heckling his teammate, Rudy Gobert.
Carmelo Anthony named co-GM of his former high school team
NBA legend and future Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony has been named co-general manager of the basketball program at his alma mater, Oak Hill Academy, according to NBA insider Brandon "Scoop B" Robinson. Position: SF Age: 40 Height: 203 cm Weight: 104 kg Birth place: Maryland, United States of America "I’ve had my time on the court, and now it’s about helping put the right people in position to lead and elevate the next generation," Melo said of his new role with Oak Hill.
EuroLeague playoffs live: Paris aims to shock Fenerbahce, PAO battle Efes
The EuroLeague Playoffs are finally here, and Tuesday night brings two exciting best-of-five series to kick things off. At 19:45 CEST, Paris Basketball will look to steal homecourt advantage from Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul. After an impressive debut EuroLeague season and a dramatic play-in win over Real Madrid last week, Paris enters the playoffs full of confidence.
NBA players reveal their MVP, championship pick and most overrated stars
Sam Amick and Josh Robbins of The Athletic have released the 2025 edition of the Anonymous NBA Player Poll, where players shared their opinions on a wide range of topics — from best and worst franchises and coaches, to the league changes. One of the most intriguing questions centered around the MVP race. Among 155 voters, a strong majority — 56.1% — selected Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as their choice for the 2024–25 NBA MVP.
Kendrick Nunn predicts playoffs, reveals what he tells NBA players about EuroLeague
Kendrick Nunn shared his EuroLeague playoff predictions, reflected on following Shane Larkin's path to Europe, and explained why he believes the EuroLeague is a more challenging and passionate game than the NBA. Credit: ZUMAPRESS.com - Scanpix Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens star Kendrick Nunn was recently named the 2024-25 EuroLeague regular season MVP. After sharing the news on Instagram, he received congratulations from many current and former NBA players.
EuroLeague sets new attendance record in 2024-25 season
The EuroLeague continues to set new standards for fan engagement, with the 2024–25 regular season marking its fourth consecutive year of record-breaking attendance. The league achieved an all-time high average of 10,589 spectators per game, surpassing the previous season's 10,383—a 2% increase, equating to 206 additional fans per game.
Zeljko Obradovic advocates for united front with Zvezda for EuroLeague inclusion
Fresh off Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade’s fifth derby win over Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet, Zeljko Obradovic spent a good chunk of his postgame press conference looking ahead—to something bigger than just one rivalry win. Points made: 20,7 Accuracy: 54,2% Place in standings: 9 Record max: 29 Record min: 14 Most made 2FGs: Tyrique Jones While the game may not have determined standings, it certainly carried weight.
Mavs owner
Dallas Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont seems to have noticed the immense backlash from fans after Luka Doncic trade. Sacramento Kings Dallas Mavericks 106-120 Memphis Grizzlies Dallas Mavericks 120-106 According to Tim Cato, Dumont is frustrated with Mavericks' General Manager Nico Harrison and his unawareness of the reactions the move could make.
LeBron James on playoffs basketball: 'It's like a drug'
LeBron James is approaching the end of his 22nd season in the NBA. Team: Los Angeles Lakers Position: SF Age: 40 Height: 203 cm Weight: 113 kg Birth place: Akron, United States of America Los Angeles Lakers are currently 1-0 down to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference First Round series.
Carlik Jones after Zvezda win: 'I don't like them but I want them in the final'
Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade emerged victorious in the Serbian Derby in ABA League last night against Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade. Points made: 14,5 Accuracy: 73,7% Place in standings: 10 Record max: 23 Record min: 8 Most made FTs: Filip Petrusev Carlik Jones contributed to his team's win with a near double-double performance of 9 points and 9 assists.
Derrick Rose congratulates Kendrick Nunn on Euroleague MVP award
Yesterday it was announced that Kendrick Nunn will win the Euroleague MVP award for 2024-25 campaign. Position: PG Age: 36 Height: 191 cm Weight: 91 kg Birth place: Chicago, United States of America Word spread out quickly overseas, and Derrick Rose also congratulated Nunn for his achievement. "Coming from where we are coming from, this is a miracle, #25 is always going to the best player," Rose wrote on his Instagram story.
Pistons end a 15-year negative streak
Detroit Pistons won their first game in the playoffs since 26th of May in 2008, winning their first postseason match after almost 16 years of wait. Credit: AP – Scanpix Detroit Pistons wrote some history in a win over the New York Knicks. New York Knicks Detroit Pistons 123-112 New York Knicks Detroit Pistons 94-100 Detroit Pistons New York Knicks Thu 23:00 Detroit Pistons New York Knicks Sun 17:00 Pistons won their first postseason game after almost 16 years of waiting.
Charles Barkley calls Mavs' GM out for Doncic comments: 'This war is over'
Months after a blockbuster trade around Luka Doncic happened, NBA world is still in shock. Sacramento Kings Dallas Mavericks 106-120 Memphis Grizzlies Dallas Mavericks 120-106 Dallas Mavericks' general manager Nico Harrison has talked numerous times about Doncic and the trade itself in press conferences. Charles Barkley had enough, and spoke clearly to a "friend of his" that he needs to stop: "Nico Harrison, listen man, I consider you a friend of mine.
Jalen Brunson is closing on a Knicks postseason record
Jalen Brunson gave it his all, but failed to defend New York Knicks' home court against the Detroit Pistons. New York Knicks Detroit Pistons 123-112 New York Knicks Detroit Pistons 94-100 Detroit Pistons New York Knicks Thu 23:00 Detroit Pistons New York Knicks Sun 17:00 Brunson scored 37 points (12/27 FG) and dished out 7 assists in a narrow 100-94 loss to the Pistons. Looking at individual stats though, Brunson became one step closer to a Knicks postseason record.
Magic Johnson praised Cunnigham and Schroder after win over Knicks
Detroit Pistons made an upset in Madison Square Garden and tied the series against the New York Knicks. MIN: 35.19 PTS: 26.17 (54.61%) REB: 6.15 As: 9.07 ST: 1.01 BL: 0.74 TO: 4.44 GM: 72 Cade Cunnigham had a stellar game, scoring 33 points and catching 12 rebounds in the process.
DeMarcus Cousins reacts to Kyle Kuzma's 'Diabolical' performance vs. Pacers
Former NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins reacted to historically bad Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma's Game 1 performance against the Indiana Pacers on the Run It Back show. Kyle Kuzma didn't record a single stat in his 22 minutes of action in the 98–117 loss, posting zeros across the board and becoming the first player since 2015 to record such a stat line in the playoffs. Cousins said it's completely unacceptable to have a performance like this and had a strong word to describe it.
2014 NBA Rookie of the Year to make his boxing debut next month
Nine-year NBA veteran and 2014 Rookie of the Year Michael Carter-Williams is set to make an unexpected boxing debut next month. Position: PG Age: 33 Height: 198 cm Weight: 84 kg Birth place: United States of America In a surprising career pivot, Carter-Williams will make his amateur boxing debut on May 29 in New York, according to Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated.
Mavs GM provides crucial injury update on Anthony Davis
Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis struggled to regain form after suffering a left adductor strain during his Mavs debut in early February. MIN: 33.54 PTS: 25.06 (58.96%) REB: 11.49 As: 3.47 ST: 1.15 BL: 2.15 TO: 2.21 GM: 53 Though Davis eventually returned to the court, it took him nearly two months to do so. Unfortunately, in his final appearance of the season, a 106-120 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies in the play-in tournament, he appeared to re-aggravate the same injury.
All-time youngest EuroLeague scorer declares for 2025 NBA Draft
Current Peristeri forward and one of Greece’s most highly touted young prospects, Neoklis Avdalas, has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens Anadolu Efes Istanbul Tue 18:30 Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens Anadolu Efes Istanbul Thu 18:30 On loan from Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens, the 19-year-old guard is enjoying a strong season with Peristeri.
Nico Harrison on whether he should've been fired: 'I think I’ve done a really good job'
Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison held his end-of-season press conference today, addressing a wide range of topics following one of the most turbulent campaigns in recent NBA history. Points made: 114,2 Accuracy: 47,9% Place in standings: 14 Record max: 143 Record min: 91 Best scorer: Kyrie Irving Much of the discussion centered around the blockbuster trade that sent franchise star Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Jalen Brunson praises ex-Mavs trainer fired by Nico Harrison for injury recovery
New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson gave heartfelt praise to the medical staff and trainers who helped him recover from an ankle injury, including current Knicks vice president of sports medicine Casey Smith. Team: New York Knicks Position: PG Age: 28 Height: 191 cm Weight: 86 kg Birth place: New Jersey, United States of America Smith previously worked with Brunson during his time with the Dallas Mavericks before being let go by Mavericks GM Nico Harrison.
Anthony Edwards claps back at Lakers fan trolling Rudy Gobert with a cocky comeback
The Minnesota Timberwolves delivered a dominant performance on Saturday, cruising to a 117-95 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of the first round of the playoffs. Points made: 26,0 Accuracy: 54,4% Place in standings: 26 Record max: 39 Record min: 16 Most made 2FGs: Anthony Edwards It was a frustrating night for Lakers fans, with little to celebrate as their team struggled on both ends of the court. One fan even attempted to heckle Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert during the game.
Jimmy Butler calls out Buddy Hield after Game 1 win: 'Stop trying to dribble'
Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler had a message for teammate Buddy Hield following the team’s 95–85 Game 1 win over the Houston Rockets in the first round of the playoffs on Sunday. Team: Golden State Warriors Position: SF, SG Age: 35 Height: 201 cm Weight: 100 kg Birth place: Houston, United States of America Hield struggled in the victory, finishing with just 2 points in 15 minutes of play. After the game, Butler didn’t hold back in his assessment.
Atlanta Hawks have fired GM Landry Fields
The Atlanta Hawks have announced they are parting ways with General Manager Landry Fields. Points made: 29,8 Accuracy: 55,0% Place in standings: 8 Record max: 42 Record min: 21 Most made 2FGs: Dyson Daniels Fields will be replaced by assistant GM Onsi Saleh, a former Golden State Warriors executive who joined the Hawks last offseason.
Curry praises Butler after a win: 'He's carried teams to the Finals'
Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler led the Golden State Warriors to a 95-85 win over the Houston Rockets in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The duo combined for 56 points, and Curry praised Butler’s poise and playmaking in his Warriors playoff debut, saying, "He's carried teams to the finals." Credit: Getty Images Stephen Curry had high praise for Jimmy Butler following the Golden State Warriors 95-85 victory over the Houston Rockets in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series.
Jayson Tatum speaks on wrist injury after hard fall
Jayson Tatum reassured fans after suffering a hard fall on his right wrist during the Celtics Game 1 win over the Magic, saying the X-rays came back clean. Credit: Getty Images/Scanpix Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum had a brief injury scare in Game 1 of the first-round playoff series against the Orlando Magic, but the All-Star forward quickly eased any concerns after the game.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's streak comes to an end in Grizzlies win
Oklahoma City Thunder destroyed the Memphis Grizzlies and leads the series 1-0. MIN: 34.04 PTS: 32.45 (62.73%) REB: 4.95 As: 6.36 ST: 1.7 BL: 1.03 TO: 2.4 GM: 77 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander saw an impressive individual streak come to an end this night though. For the first time since October 2024, Gilgeous-Alexander dropped less than 20 points in a single game, scoring 15 in a 131-80 win. Last time he scored less than 20 was on 31st of October in 2024, when he scored 18 against the San Antonio Spurs.
Bam Adebayo previews Cavs series: 'Take one in Cleveland'
Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat are set to take on each other in the first round of the Eastern Conference. Points made: 110,7 Accuracy: 46,6% Place in standings: 24 Record max: 153 Record min: 85 Best scorer: Tyler Herro Bam Adebayo previewed the series before its tipoff, claiming that it's a must to win one of the games on the road: “Cleveland has been No. 1 in the East all year," Adebayo said. "They’ve been having a historical season. So for us, it’s understanding what’s at stake for them.
Edwards takes a jab at analysts after Lakers upset
Minnesota Timberwolves surprised the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 last night. MIN: 36.33 PTS: 27.49 (53.75%) REB: 5.73 As: 4.6 ST: 1.15 BL: 0.64 TO: 3.13 GM: 80 Anthony Edwards was crucial in Timberwolves' win with 22 points, 9 assists and 8 rebounds. Edwards was ironic after the match, taking a direct jab at reporters after the game: "The Lakers are supposed to win. That’s just how it’s supposed to go.
Mathias Lessort on his NBA offer: 'I would have paid to play'
Mathias Lessort talked for Euro Insiders, where he revealed details about the NBA offer he received and his extension with Panathinaikos. Credit: Vangelis Stolis Mathias Lessort was on the pace for an incredible season before suffering a gruesome ankle injury. MIN: 26.57 PTS: 13.41 (67.62%) REB: 7.06 As: 1.59 ST: 1 BL: 0.71 TO: 1.94 GM: 17 Nevertheless, Panathinaikos Aktor Athens resigned him on a three-year deal.
JJ Redick blasts Adam Silver’s 10-minute quarter idea
With a vision to make the NBA more global, Commissioner Adam Silver the other day suggested an idea of shortening games by having 10-minute quarters instead of 12. "As we get more involved in global basketball, the NBA is the only league that plays 48-minute games," Silver noted. "I'm a fan of four 10-minute quarters.
Dwyane Wade reveals part of kidney removed due to tumor
Dwyane Wade had surgery on one of his kidneys in 2023 to remove a tumor that was later diagnosed as cancerous. Wade made the shocking revelation on his "The Why with Dwyane Wade" podcast. He shared that he initially experienced stomach and urinary issues. He then had a full-body scan, which revealed a "cyst/tumor" on his right kidney. Wade underwent surgery to remove the tumor in December 2023, saying doctors also removed 40% of his right kidney. "Thank God that I did do the surgery," Wade said.
LaMelo Ball snubbed from NBA All-Star Game
Many in the NBA community were shocked to find out that LaMelo Ball did not make the All-Star team. The league announced the 14 reserve players for the All-Star Game and the Charlotte Hornets star, who had only appeared in the All-Star Game once previously, was left off the group. Ball is averaging 28.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game while shooting 41% from the floor and 33% from the 3-point area this season.
2025 NBA All-Star Game reserves:
The NBA officially announced the reserves for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, including the Cavaliers duo Darius Garland and Evan Mobley. Credit: Getty Images via AFP - Scanpix The NBA has officially announced the reserves for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game in San Francisco, completing the full rosters after the starters were revealed earlier.
Trinchieri hints at Zalgiris roster changes: 'I'm open to everything'
Andrea Trinchieri hinted at possible roster changes, stating only those who deserve it will wear the green jersey. Credit: Dainius Lukšta Zalgiris Kaunas suffered their third straight EuroLeague defeat and their seventh loss in the last eight games, falling to FC Bayern Munich 82-97 at home on Thursday night. Player of the Game EFF 34 Nick Weiler-Babb Points 14 Accuracy 5-6 Rebounds 7 Assists 13 "The situation is bad. Very bad," coach Andrea Trinchieri said in the post-game conference.
Mathias Lessort on injury frustration: 'Watching my team play f**king sucks'
Mathias Lessort is struggling with the frustration of being sidelined due to injury, admitting that watching his team play without being able to help is extremely difficult. Credit: /IPA/SIPA - Scanpix Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens center Mathias Lessort is struggling to be away from basketball. Watching his team play without being able to help is especially painful for him as he recovers from a fibula fracture.
Buddy Hield looks forward to learning from Curry after joining Warriors
Buddy Hield shares his excitement about joining the Golden State Warriors, highlighting his admiration for the team's playstyle and his eagerness to learn from key players such as Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins. Credit: AP-Scanpix Buddy Hield has shared his enthusiasm after being acquired by the Golden State Warriors in a recent sign-and-trade deal.
Wembanyama reacts to Strazel's 3+1 play: 'It's probably the best shot of his life'
Victor Wembanyama reacts to Matthew Strazel's clutch 3+1 play and has high praise for the AS Monaco guard: "He represents the slow grind mentality. ... It's a career that deserves a lot of respect so far and for the future." Credit: FIBA France was on the brink of a major upset at the Paris 2024 Olympics, but then Matthew Strazel happened. The AS Monaco guard nailed a crucial 3+1 play on France's final possession of the fourth quarter, tying the game against Japan at 84.
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