INSIDER
Spurs drop Wizards 121-101 in Washington’s return from COVID-19 layoff
Read full article: Spurs drop Wizards 121-101 in Washington’s return from COVID-19 layoffThe Wizards had their previous six games postponed because they did not have enough eligible players due to the league’s 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.
Magic beat Wizards130-120 despite Westbrook's historic night
Read full article: Magic beat Wizards130-120 despite Westbrook's historic nightOrlando 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 – 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 practice…UP 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.
Purdue defense bottles up No. 8 Spartans in 71-42 upset
Read full article: Purdue defense bottles up No. 8 Spartans in 71-42 upset“Probably the worst beating I’ve taken as a coach,” Michigan State coach Tom Izzo said. But Purdue bottled up Michigan State at every turn and eventually the Spartans buckled. Michigan State never recovered despite trimming the deficit to 37-20 at halftime and 39-27 early in the second half. The real danger is it could become a guide for how other opponents can beat Michigan State. Purdue: The Boilermakers' usually strong defense might have been at its best against the Spartans.