Mike Budenholzer is hired as coach of the Phoenix Suns, replacing Frank Vogel
Mike Budenholzer is the newest head coach of the Phoenix Suns after the franchise turned to the man who beat them in the 2021 NBA Finals.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia says franchise is doing 'excellent.' He's quiet on coach Frank Vogel's future
Mat Ishbia knows the offseason chatter around the Phoenix Suns is itโs a team with a top-heavy roster, salary cap issues and precious little room to maneuver after a disappointing season.
The Suns built a superteam with Durant, Booker and Beal. It produced zero playoff wins
The Phoenix Suns thought they had built a formidable superteam during the offseason by adding three-time All-Star Bradley Beal to form a star-studded trio with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.
Timberwolves outlast Suns to finish sweep. Minnesota coach Chris Finch leaves with knee injury
Anthony Edwards scored 40 points, Karl-Anthony Towns added 28 and the Minnesota Timberwolves pulled away late to beat the Phoenix Suns 122-116 and sweep the first-round playoff series.
Anthony Edwards scores 36 points, Timberwolves beat Suns 126-109 for 3-0 series lead
Anthony Edwards scored 36 points, Rudy Gobert added 19 points and 14 rebounds and the Minnesota Timberwolves used a hot-shooting third quarter to beat the Phoenix Suns 126-109 on Friday night and take a 3-0 lead in the first-round series.
Timberwolves take 2-0 lead on Suns behind 25 points and ace defense from Jaden McDaniels
Jaden McDaniels scored 25 points for a career best in the playoffs and spearheaded another stifling defensive performance by the Minnesota Timberwolves in a 105-93 victory over the Phoenix Suns to take a 2-0 lead in their first-round series.
Suns guard Grayson Allen aggravates ankle injury vs. Timberwolves. Phoenix falls into 0-2 hole
Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen appeared to aggravate the sprained right ankle he suffered in the playoff opener.
No Giannis? No Leonard? No problem just yet for the Bucks and Clippers in the postseason
The Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers remain unsure when theyโll have their top player back on the floor.
Timberwolves take down Suns 120-95 in Game 1 behind 33 points from Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards scored 18 of his 33 points in the third quarter and had nine rebounds to carry the Minnesota Timberwolves in a tone-setting 120-95 victory over the Phoenix Suns to start the first round of the playoffs.
Phoenix Suns and Grayson Allen finalize contract extension after career-best season
The Phoenix Suns and guard Grayson Allen have finalized a multi-year deal that will keep him with the franchise following the best season of his NBA career.
Kevin Durant scores 33 points in Brooklyn return, leads Suns to 136-120 victory over the Nets
Kevin Durant scored 33 points in his return to Brooklyn, leading the Phoenix Suns to a 136-120 victory over the Nets on Wednesday night.
Pacers rally to spoil Devin Booker's 62-point night, stun Suns 133-131
Obi Toppin broke a tie on a putback with 3.4 seconds left and the Indiana Pacers spoiled Devin Bookerโs 62-point night, overcoming a 17-point deficit to beat the Phoenix Suns 133-131 on Friday.
Suns guard Bradley Beal out at least two weeks with a sprained right ankle
Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal is out for at least the next two weeks because of a sprained right ankle suffered against the New York Knicks last Friday.
Brunson scores career-high 50, hits all 9 of his 3-point shots to help Knicks top Suns 139-122
Jalen Brunson scored a career-high 50 points while hitting all nine of his 3-point attempts, Julius Randle added 23 and the New York Knicks beat the Phoenix Suns 139-122.
Beal leaves game with ankle injury, another blow for Suns' trio of All-Stars
Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal injured his right ankle during the first quarter of Friday nightโs game against the New York Knicks and wonโt return, according to the team.
There's a lot of money at stake in the NBA In-Season Tournament. For 2-way players, it's a whole lot
At stake over the next week in the NBA is a chance to be the first team to win the leagueโs inaugural in-Season tournament.
Phoenix Suns' All-Star guard Bradley Beal out at least 3 more weeks with back injury
Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal will be out for at least the next three weeks as he continues to recover from a low back strain that has kept him out for the majority of the season.
LeBron James scores 32 points, Lakers rally to beat Suns 122-119 to snap 3-game skid
LeBron James scored 32 points, DโAngelo Russell had 19 and the Los Angeles Lakers snapped a three-game losing streak, beating the Phoenix Suns 122-119 in the NBA In-Season Tournament.
Keldon Johnsonโs late basket gives Spurs only lead of game, 115-114 win over Suns
Keldon Johnson stripped Kevin Durant and made a contested layup with 1.2 seconds left to give the Spurs their only lead of the game and a 115-114 victory over the stunned Phoenix Suns.
Things to know about the NBA season: Lots of money, lots of talent, lots of stats
NBA teams currently have about $4.8 billion in salary committed to players for this season, meaning the average per team is around $160 million.
Giannis Antetokounmpo indicates on social media that he's agreed to contract extension with Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo has indicated on social media that he has agreed to a contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks.
NBA season set to begin with ring night in Denver, and a slew of challengers for title
Damian Lillard went to Milwaukee, Bradley Beal went to Phoenix, Jrue Holiday ended up in Boston and Chris Paul ended up with Golden State.
Suns trade Payne to Spurs, sign Bol Bol to 1-year contract, AP source says
The Phoenix Suns have traded guard Cameron Payne to the San Antonio Spurs and signed big man Bol Bol to a one-year contract, a person familiar with the moves told The Associated Press.
Bradley Beal enters his 30s with the Suns, says he's ready to 'chase this ring'
Bradley Beal was drafted on his 19th birthday and spent his entire 20s with the Washington Wizards, where he scored a lot of points, enjoyed a little team success, but also suffered through plenty of painful losses.
Chris Paul traded to Warriors, Jordan Poole sent to Wizards, source tells AP
Chris Paulโs pursuit of an NBA championship is taking him to the Golden State Warriors, after they agreed to the framework of a trade on Thursday that will send Jordan Poole to the Washington Wizards, according to a person with knowledge of the matter.
Wiseman stars as Warriors, Wizards open preseason in Tokyo
James Wiseman, who missed last season rehabilitating a right meniscal tear, scored 20 points on Friday as the defending champion Golden State Warriors defeated the Washington Wizards 96-87 to open the NBA preseason.
James passes Malone, but Lakers blow lead in loss to Wizards
LeBron James passed Karl Malone for second place on the NBAโs career scoring list, but it was part of another loss for his Los Angeles Lakers when the Washington Wizards rallied from a 16-point deficit to win 127-119.
Ayton has 20 points and 16 rebounds, Suns rout Wizards
Deandre Ayton had 20 points and 16 rebounds in an efficient 24 minutes and the NBA-leading Phoenix Suns rebounded from a streak-ending loss to beat the short-handed Washington Wizards 95-80 on Saturday night.
Ja Morant scores 34 points, Grizzlies beat Wizards 115-95
Ja Morant scored 34 points, his sixth straight game of at least 30 points, and the Memphis Grizzlies built an early lead in a 115-95 victory over the Washington Wizards on Saturday night.
Kennard scores 7 in final 9 seconds as Clippers stun Wizards
Luke Kennard scored seven points inside the final 9 seconds, including a go-ahead four-point play with 1.9 seconds remaining, and the Los Angeles Clippers overcame a 35-point first-half deficit to stun the Washington Wizards 116-115.
Nuggets-Warriors off; Rivers, Malone enter NBA protocols
The NBA postponed Golden State's game with Denver on Thursday, the same day that Philadelphiaโs Doc Rivers and Denverโs Michael Malone entered the NBAโs health and safety protocols.
Spurs defeat Wizards, 116-99, for seasonโs first win streak
Derrick White had 24 points, Dejounte Murray had 22 points and 10 rebounds, and the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Washington Wizards 116-99 on Monday to win consecutive games for the first time this season.
![Spurs forward Keldon Johnson named to Team USA roster for Tokyo Olympics](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/MiUap_PFYIrPAXiyJIWcoqCSL6Y=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/FQC36HNWKNE2ROI556CBGC7OQQ.jpg)
Spurs forward Keldon Johnson named to Team USA roster for Tokyo Olympics
Spurs forward Keldon Johnson is close to securing a roster spot with the US Menโs National Basketball Team Team ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.
![Bradley Beal out of Olympics for health and safety reasons](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/lcXEDp4agMezolfMesDZJs0EfUQ=/800x450/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/OGFRHPWOWRDERGFQLVGGCOX4II.jpg)
Bradley Beal out of Olympics for health and safety reasons
Bradley Beal will miss the Olympics after being placed into health and safety protocols and the U.S. menโs basketball team said it will replace him on its roster at a later date.
![US-Australia basketball game canceled because of protocols](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/1Q5avu-jOyny-wSORQgcc6M0K2E=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/DUVEL754IFBG5ES576AQRA3DFQ.jpg)
US-Australia basketball game canceled because of protocols
The United Statesโ menโs basketball exhibition game against Australia scheduled for Friday night in Las Vegas has been canceled because of health and safety protocols.
![AP source: Beal in protocols, Tokyo Olympics status in doubt](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/nDlAOQLa8SIJ-E-ksT7AvGjxdZE=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/FFUZKGPCT5GXFF3JWQ4MYYPUHU.jpg)
AP source: Beal in protocols, Tokyo Olympics status in doubt
A person with knowledge of the situation says U.S. Olympic guard Bradley Beal has entered the health and safety protocols related to the coronavirus, which raises the possibility that he might miss the Tokyo Games.
![Without Embiid, 76ers roll past Wizards and into 2nd round](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/znPX8I8hzF-jewrqoL80cVi22Dg=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/CRGJIACVNJABLAEXMOZMV7EWME.jpg)
Without Embiid, 76ers roll past Wizards and into 2nd round
Seth Curry scored 30 points, Tobias Harris had 28 and the Philadelphia 76ers finished off the Washington Wizards in five games with a 129-112 victory Wednesday night.
![Embiid leaves with sore knee, 76ers lose to Wizards 122-114](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/dcU3Kn-wyOiU5OfbzWwdi-FTVXk=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/ACMXSCBUI5FGXF63XJU5MTEOSQ.jpg)
Embiid leaves with sore knee, 76ers lose to Wizards 122-114
Philadelphia center Joel Embiid left in the first quarter with a sore right knee and the 76ers lost Game 4 of their playoff series against the Washington Wizards 122-114.
![Doc Rivers baffled by continued criticism of Ben Simmons](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/nPJcWEdORfFs5BsKUT8qum4rtIw=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/QYOA4MKWYVA4XIRPEPEYI7HWUI.jpg)
Doc Rivers baffled by continued criticism of Ben Simmons
Doc Rivers canโt fathom criticism of Ben Simmons, especially after the three-time All-Star became just the sixth player in NBA history to have at least 15 rebounds and 15 assists in a playoff game.
![Harris scores 37, leads 76ers past Wizards 125-118 in Game 1](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/njyGpXT_DRmtP8sHOO4XF1Jz2ys=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/PRZZXH3JOZA7DKLHHECLHI5WSY.jpg)
Harris scores 37, leads 76ers past Wizards 125-118 in Game 1
Tobias Harris scored 37 points and Joel Embiid had 30 points, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to a 125-118 victory over the Washington Wizards in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference playoff series.
![Beal, Westbrook lead Wiz past Pacers 142-115 for East 8 seed](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/bbxEGp-taPu3OAQUEwg0HMe7mFI=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/42J42IHH7BDDVD5A4NR35MJ4PI.jpg)
Beal, Westbrook lead Wiz past Pacers 142-115 for East 8 seed
Russell Westbrook nearly had a triple-double and Bradley Beal scored 25 points in just 29 minutes to help the Washington Wizards reach the NBA playoffs as the Eastern Conferenceโs No. 8 seed by overwhelming the Indiana Pacers 142-115 in the play-in round.
![As regular season ends, NBA's play-in games take shape](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/bYr6T4UCE_6g-F4iHXpU88XJ_K8=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/TNUONZIFXJFAFLHYJWWEGTFWVM.jpg)
As regular season ends, NBA's play-in games take shape
The NBAโs new play-in tournament begins Tuesday night, and it took until the 146th and final day of this compressed season to determine who is going where for the playoffs.
![Wizards beat Cavaliers 120-105, clinch East play-in spot](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/xO0TBa4FmHavc1g-0m70QK-CCBI=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/4A3WTNTYEVF5HBZARSRUWIYNUU.jpg)
Wizards beat Cavaliers 120-105, clinch East play-in spot
Russell Westbrook got his first triple-double since passing Oscar Robertson and becoming the NBA's career leader earlier in the week and Washington beat Cleveland 120-105 to clinch a spot in the East play-in tournament.
![Westbrook breaks Robinson's record as Wizards fall to Hawks](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/JU8_KR-iANOPpdK7B0L1QExjiCo=/800x554/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/IKY7XZTKVJGPZBUE23FJMPN3CE.jpg)
Westbrook breaks Robinson's record as Wizards fall to Hawks
Russell Westbrook broke Oscar Robertsonโs 47-year-old NBA record for triple-doubles and missed a potential game-winning 3-pointer as the Washington Wizards lost 125-124 to the Atlanta Hawks.
![Westbrook ties Robertson's record, Wizards beat Pacers](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/Hjr02KkRcjmxKEntuHpueOCzw1c=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/RVFHVJIEFBGZRMIFXAPFJL7CHM.jpg)
Westbrook ties Robertson's record, Wizards beat Pacers
Russell Westbrook tied Oscar Robertsonโs NBA record for triple-doubles with 181, finishing with 33 points, 19 rebounds and 15 assists, and made two free throws with a second left to give Washington a 133-132 overtime victory over Indiana on Saturday night.
![Westbrook has 21 boards, 24 assists; Wizards blast Pacers](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/dCGaIG8m2p4tsY7Gtdcd-Zk2Zdw=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/JY5C4QYT6ZBK5FFXPERAEM2DH4.jpg)
Westbrook has 21 boards, 24 assists; Wizards blast Pacers
Russell Westbrook had the third game in NBA history with 20-plus rebounds and 20-plus assists, and the surging Washington Wizards moved closer to Indiana in the Eastern Conference playoff standings.
![Spurs outlast Wizards in OT, end Washingtonโs streak at 8](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/QHHtoYEup2DiZKNHBucAfBTo-K0=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/WTIGSKLAHZBXDK5KKUQUXB2BAQ.jpeg)
Spurs outlast Wizards in OT, end Washingtonโs streak at 8
DeMar DeRozan had 37 points and 10 assists, and the San Antonio Spurs outlasted the Wizards 146-143 in overtime, ending Washingtonโs season-best eight-game winning streak.
![Curry finally goes cold, Beal rallies Wizards past Warriors](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/WguVdb1pyxwNMqL56d7-NT0Ubn0=/800x533/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/E3XSD3ZBYJG7TBVU6OSVVVXHIA.jpg)
Curry finally goes cold, Beal rallies Wizards past Warriors
Stephen Curry had his first rough night in a month, and Bradley Beal rallied Washington in the fourth quarter for its season-best sixth straight victory, 118-114 over the Golden State Warriors.
![Embiid exits with apparent leg injury, 76ers beat Wizards](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/OTbZdey6k-IPMbiUK_3NXZHrhQk=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/NVPBJJUYUNDFHOBBMWOVALM3MM.jpg)
Embiid exits with apparent leg injury, 76ers beat Wizards
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) dunks past Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook, bottom, during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, March 12, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)WASHINGTON โ On pace for their best season and first conference championship in two decades, the Philadelphia 76ers are suddenly โprayingโ for the health of their best player. Joel Embiid scored 23 points but departed midway through the third quarter following an apparent leg injury in the 76ers' 127-101 victory over the Washington Wizards on Friday night. โWe're just praying that he'll be OK and be healthy tomorrow.โFollowing a dunk for his last points, Embiid landed awkwardly on his left leg, his knee joint appearing to bend slightly forward. Furkan Korkmaz added 12 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter as the Sixers completed a three-game season sweep of the Wizards.
![Embiid, Simmons to miss All-Star Game; Zion to start instead](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/TYGf_fbD8jc098dfRiD9fjCtj0c=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/VG27PEWF5VAARFTCKYVPDOLMSQ.jpg)
Embiid, Simmons to miss All-Star Game; Zion to start instead
Philadelphia 76ers' Joel Embiid dunk s the ball during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz, Wednesday, March 3, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)Philadelphia 76ers teammates Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons were ruled out of Sunday's NBA All-Star Game after being flagged by coronavirus contact tracing, prompting some players to question again why the exhibition was being played during a pandemic. A number of players โ All-Star captain LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers among them โ openly wondered in recent weeks why the game was being played. โI don't want to say we didn't have a choice, but it's in our CBA and our CBA says there has to be an All-Star Game every year," Beal said. โThere's a lot of language in there that can kind of get ugly if we didn't necessarily come down and go through with the All-Star Game.
![Lillard's late 3 gives Blazers 108-106 win over Warriors](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/eyXyev6hLAcv8_oVQnsbXGIX8L8=/1600x2492/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/C5A52I6MJBGRDFEDVCEOZMUPIU.jpg)
Lillard's late 3 gives Blazers 108-106 win over Warriors
Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard shoots a 3-point basket over Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Portland, Ore., Wednesday, March 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Craig Mitchelldyer)PORTLAND, Ore. โ Played tough by the Warriors all game, Damian Lillard needed to make something happen. Lillard hit a deep 3-pointer with 13.7 seconds left to give the Portland Trail Blazers a hard-fought 108-106 victory over Golden State on Wednesday night. His 3-pointer gave Golden State a 101-96 lead with 3:57 remaining. He took a charge from Green, which prompted an unsuccessful challenge by Golden State, and Portland won its second straight after a four-game losing streak.
![Wizards win 5th straight, hold off Lakers 127-124 in OT](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/6JTh4lR38tSwzKUnjwCfr_IOFt0=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/53446XPFDNBGTIZY2W7CL5KC4A.jpg)
Wizards win 5th straight, hold off Lakers 127-124 in OT
Los Angeles Lakers center Montrezl Harrell, left, grabs a loose ball away from Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Feb. 22, 2021, in Los Angeles. Russell Westbrook scored six of his 32 points in overtime for the Wizards, who rallied from a 17-point deficit in the second half. โIt feels different, in a great way,โ Beal said of the Wizards' impressive five-game run against Boston, Houston, Denver, Portland and the Lakers. ... Former Lakers C Moe Wagner had six points, and former Lakers swingman Isaac Bonga didn't play. James is third in the NBA in total minutes, with over 200 more than anyone else on the Lakers' roster.
![Wizards to rest scoring leader Beal for 1st time this season](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/ieX5RLotyXkR32Lb9GydlBypJMY=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/X765VUEPCVDOTEUQOXPDS7M2HI.jpg)
Wizards to rest scoring leader Beal for 1st time this season
Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) shoots against Toronto Raptors guard Norman Powell (24) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)WASHINGTON โ NBA scoring leader Bradley Beal will be held out of a game for rest for the first time this season, sitting out Washington's matchup with the New York Knicks on Friday. Beal is averaging 32.8 points and 35.3 minutes per game for Washington (6-16), which is among the league's worst teams. The only previous game Beal missed this season was a loss to the Miami Heat on Jan. 9 because of the league's COVID-19 protocols. Washington's other starting guard, Russell Westbrook โ who was acquired in a trade with Houston before the season โ has missed seven games this season for rest or because of injury.
![Westbrook, Beal hit late 3s, Wizards stun Nets 149-146](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/L6UP0FUtVaU2ie5Hoxo7RPrWAG4=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/UR7FFDPI4JDHNBHCX3TFGFDACY.jpg)
Westbrook, Beal hit late 3s, Wizards stun Nets 149-146
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)WASHINGTON โ Wizards coach Scott Brooks envisioned something like this when Washington acquired Russell Westbrook from Houston for John Wall and a draft pick. Bradley Beal and Westbrook hit 3-pointers in a wild 3.8-second sequence in the final seconds to help the Wizards stun Kevin Durant and the Brooklyn Nets 149-146 on Sunday night. Westbrook had 41 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists, and NBA scoring leader Beal had 37 points. In the fourth quarter, Beal had 22 points and Westbrook had 15. โRussell willed this game,โ Brooks said about Westbrook, who has only played in 10 of 16 games due to a quad injury.
![Spurs drop Wizards 121-101 in Washingtonโs return from COVID-19 layoff](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/M27Qy716j7efTediUdJCinymewk=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/SRB5MP7VKRDGPBIO7XPM4RKMYM.jpg)
Spurs drop Wizards 121-101 in Washingtonโs return from COVID-19 layoff
The Wizards had their previous six games postponed because they did not have enough eligible players due to the leagueโs COVID-19 protocols. LaMarcus Aldridge added 15 points, Devin Vassell had 14 points and Keldon Johnson had 13 for San Antonio. Washington was 14 for 42 overall on 3-pointers, helping it stay with San Antonio through three quarters. San Antonio finished 15 for 31 on 3-pointers in securing its largest margin of victory this season. Spurs: Vassell is the first Spurs rookie with four or more 3-pointers in a game since Gary Neal in 2011.
![Wizards return to court, Grizzlies see 6th game postponed](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/Hqfc9oq_hW0WRJf307GiJc1t5d4=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/WSLAZB3WYFAELM2JUN7I7PHU6I.jpg)
Wizards return to court, Grizzlies see 6th game postponed
Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) shoots against Phoenix Suns forward Jae Crowder (99) during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Jan. 11, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)The Washington Wizards are finally back. The Grizzlies wonโt play until at least Saturday, after the NBA called off yet another game -- the 20th since Jan. 10 and the 21st postponement this season. Those were called off late last week and now, the Grizzliesโ home game against Chicago that was scheduled for Wednesday is off as well. In all, 23 teams have seen at least one game called off so far this season.
![Grizzlies-Blazers called off; Wizards worry about readiness](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/6x106AuQrHJXs7wbz0lhyGGh0fk=/1600x1067/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/DHXR34SI3FB67DUOS4CN4XTVCI.jpg)
Grizzlies-Blazers called off; Wizards worry about readiness
The Wizards don't expect to have more than eight available on Friday because of a combination of the virus and injuries. Wizards coach Scott Brooks isn't expecting any of the six players who have tested positive back in the next few days at least, and Westbrook is still out with a leg injury. Portland is the 20th NBA team to have at least one game called off in the last two weeks. Memphis had its game at Minnesota last Friday called off after Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns revealed that he tested positive for COVID-19. Players who test positive must undergo a battery of exams before being cleared to return to play, such as cardiac tests.
![Harden says 'crazy' Rockets situation can't be fixed](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/YeaJnxuQxpWReSouQbQF8EVQNH4=/1600x1090/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/A56W4KDTENEKXNUAGVHSK7VJXY.jpg)
Harden says 'crazy' Rockets situation can't be fixed
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) and coach Stephen Silas, right, react after a play during the second quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers in an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2021, in Houston. (Troy Taormina/Pool Photo via AP)HOUSTON โ James Harden publicly acknowledged his discord with the Houston Rockets for the first time Tuesday night following back-to-back blowout losses to the Los Angeles Lakers. Heโs averaged at least 25 points per game in each of his eight full seasons with the Rockets. The Rockets are 3-6 and looked completely overmatched in their last two games against the reigning champions. Wall was asked how he and Harden have worked together on the court so far after Tuesday's game.
![NBA, union stiffen virus protocols; more games postponed](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/oODpDsSAiFtseXG715vFuXfp164=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/JTNYEK223VBQLFHHDBL34CI7KA.jpg)
NBA, union stiffen virus protocols; more games postponed
Utah's game in Washington on Wednesday was postponed because contact-tracing issues among the Wizards meant they wouldn't have eight available players for that matchup. โI'm for whatever the NBA wants us to do," Washington coach Scott Brooks said. When teams started testing in late November prior to the start of training camps, 48 players had positive COVID-19 tests. There were at least 36 players in the league dealing with virus-related issues or protocols when Tuesday began, based on information released by teams. Counting the two new postponements and another on Dec. 23 between Oklahoma City and Houston, the league has seen six games moved because of virus issues.
![Celtics would be without Tatum, Brown for coronavirus rules](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/eq4g6Q9bASGIv6FmK5qC77emTwk=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/23GPVPIK3BCSDDSLCHRCO4KGMU.jpg)
Celtics would be without Tatum, Brown for coronavirus rules
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) drives against Washington Wizards' Davis Bertans and center Moritz Wagner (21) in the second half of an NBA basketball game, Friday, Jan. 8, 2021, in Boston. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)BOSTON โ The Boston Celtics could be without stars Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and a number of other players because of coronavirus safety protocols when they face Miami on Sunday. The Celtics are listing Tatum as doubtful and Brown as questionable for the rematch of the Eastern Conference finals. With Kemba Walker and Romeo Langford unavailable because of injuries, the Celtics could have the minimum eight players required to start a game. Beset by its own coronavirus problems, Philadelphia dressed an injured player Saturday so it could field a team to play against Denver.
![Sixers top Wizards despite Beal's record-tying 60 points](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/yn39THvqq4bpgDOQDynF0c7NrcA=/1600x1064/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/EWJ53B2BGRADNHIKZJWYMQ3OAM.jpg)
Sixers top Wizards despite Beal's record-tying 60 points
(AP Photo/Chris Szagola)PHILADELPHIA โ Joel Embiid scored 38 points and the NBA-leading Philadelphia 76ers overcame a Washington record-tying 60-point performance by Bradley Beal in a 141-136 win over the Wizards on Wednesday night. Beal, who once scored 53 and 55 points in consecutive games, sank a free throw with 4.4 seconds left to hit the mark. He hit seven 3s and reached 57 points through three quarters, and that should have been enough to give the Wizards the lead. They gave up 82 points and trailed by as many as 21 points, Beal outscoring the rest of the Wizards. Russell Westbrook scored 20 points for the Wizards.
![Magic beat Wizards130-120 despite Westbrook's historic night](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/u6Wc274DpqS71zciJefXIlTzTYg=/1600x1067/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/VTD6YIUKSRGBVKHSOYJ2ZEC3FM.jpg)
Magic beat Wizards130-120 despite Westbrook's historic night
Orlando Magic guard Markelle Fultz (20) shoots as Washington Wizards forward Isaac Bonga (17) and forward Deni Avdija (9) defend in the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, in Washington. (Geoff Burke/Pool Photo via AP)WASHINGTON โ The Orlando Magic beat Washington 130-120 on Saturday night, overcoming another triple-double by Russell Westbrook in his home debut for the Wizards. Nikola Vucevic had 22 points and 17 rebounds, and Markelle Fultz added 21 points to help the Magic win its second straight to start the season. ... Two-way rookie guard Cassius Winston (hamstring strain) was inactive but has returned to practiceโฆUP NEXTThe Magic and Wizards will complete their back-to-back in Washington on Sunday. It is the only meeting between the two Southeast division foes in the first half of the NBA schedule release.
!['Explosive' Durant scores 15 in 1st preseason game with Nets](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/eonoNceXBQe4GRFGXbMa0Obt54s=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/XV4O5IUXARHKTN3E6XLHDY7ZHI.jpg)
'Explosive' Durant scores 15 in 1st preseason game with Nets
Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant (7) passes during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards, Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020, in New York. Durant played just under 24 minutes as Brooklyn beat the Washington Wizards 119-114 on Sunday night in its preseason opener. Durant scored 11 points on 3-for-3 shooting during that stretch while Irving scored 12 points on 5-for-6 shooting to help the Nets take a 30-18 lead. Late in the first half, Irving threw a long pass to Durant, whose reverse layup gave the Nets a 58-35 lead. Danilo Gallinari added 17 points and DeโAndre Hunter added 15 for Atlanta, which made 17 3-pointers.
!['Happy about where I'm at': Westbrook discusses move to DC](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/ShQpA2Z8cAjMbM084faN6K3fRMM=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/QLGC6FUO4JF5TMDMB7EOX2CVHE.jpg)
'Happy about where I'm at': Westbrook discusses move to DC
โObviously, Iโm not the easiest guy to understand,โ Westbrook said. Westbrook was at practice on Saturday with the Wizards, the team that sent former No. โIโm here in Washington,โ Westbrook replied. โIโm all about trying to do things the right way, regardless of if anybody likes it or not,โ Westbrook said. โMy thing is making sure that Iโm doing the right thing for the right people and impacting as many people as possible.โ___More AP NBA: https://apnews.com/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
![Voting, activism replace practice, games in US sports world](https://www.ksat.com/resizer/oRZK3hHzdL-z4ADPWx6qvsjc3jw=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/YAR7OGG6BVHNPN2K62ZSIJIGBY.jpg)
Voting, activism replace practice, games in US sports world
โBut I donโt have to agree with it.โAnd thatโs absolutely fine, said Ish Smith, the Wizards guard who signed Pittmanโs cap. โWhen I played, players and coaches were never โ maybe not never; rarely โ asked about politics and voting,โ Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. Itโs an environment that led Wizards shooting guard Bradley Beal, Tennessee Titans linebacker Will Compton, NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace and others to proudly note they were voting for the first time. And led WNBA players Tamika Catchings and Chiney Ogwumike to sign up to be poll workers. And led Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Chris Paul to join nearly 2,500 people on a march to a voting site in North Carolina.