標籤: praises

tottenham Players are still getting used to life under Roberto De Zerbi, but Benfica goalkeeper Anatoly Trubin has already offered a detailed glimpse of what it’s really like to work with the Italian.

And judging by the Ukrainian’s words, the current Spurs manager makes a very strong impression on his players.

talking to to ballThe 24-year-old reflected on his season under De Zerbi at Shakhtar Donetsk in 2021/22. The Italian has clearly changed the way he looks at football.

Trubin described De Zerbi in one word: “crazy.”

However this was not a criticism. Quite the opposite.

Trubin explains the de Zerbi effect

Anatoly Trubin repeated many times that De Zerbi changed his understanding of football.

“He opened my eyes to another way of playing, even for me, as a goalkeeper. He wants everyone to know their role.” he explained.

“We still ask ourselves how we played football before him, because he opened a new way of playing for us.” He said.

The Italian has built his reputation around structured possession football, aggressive build-up play and demanding positional responsibilities. Goalkeepers become part of the build-up phase rather than simple shot stoppers.

For that reason, it’s especially interesting to hear such strong praise from a goalkeeper.

Trubin then also made it clear that he would welcome another opportunity to work with him, along the lines of something that would inevitably attract attention in North London.

“He can still teach me a lot,” The goalkeeper admitted that before answering whether he would like to move to England.

“There is no player in the world who does not want to play in the Premier League, but I have to continue to work hard.”

For now, Trubin says he’s happy in Lisbon, and touts its benefits “Ten Months of the Sun”. Nevertheless, the overall tone of the interview was extremely positive whenever De Zerbi’s name came up.

Could Tottenham finally take a look at him?

It is expected that Tottenham will make a decision in line with the target this summer.

Interest in Guglielmo Vicario remains and may not last forever, while Antonin Kinski still has to prove he can become a long-term No. 1 at Premier League level. This naturally makes the Trubin angle interesting.

The Ukrainian already understands the demands of De Zerbi better than most goalkeepers on the market. At 24, he also fits the profile that Tottenham usually target – young enough for development, but already experienced at a high level.

His figures have been strong this season too. In Liga Portugal, Trubin conceded only 20 goals in 32 matches and kept 13 clean sheets. Benfica allows a goal with him every 144 minutes, while the goals he concedes per 90 minutes is 0.63.

His shot blocking numbers are also impressive. Trubin saved 74 of the 98 shots he faced, giving him a save percentage of 75.51%.

Those statistics help explain why Benfica view him as one of Portugal’s most valuable goalkeepers. Manchester City were linked with them Before stepping in for Gianluigi Donnarumma. That’s why their stocks are high.

At present there does not seem to be anything to suggest that Tottenham are actively pursuing him. However, after such glowing comments about De Zerbi, and with uncertainty surrounding Spurs’ goalkeeping situation, Trubin suddenly feels like a profile worth watching if Tottenham are to remain in the Premier League.

Carlos Prates solidified his place as a legitimate welterweight title contender at UFC Perth on Saturday. In the biggest fight of his career, the Brazilian took on former 170-pound champion Jack Della Maddalena in a main event matchup in JDM’s home nation and it didn’t take long to see who was the better fighter.

Prats used his length and speed to deliver hard, accurate shots through his enemy’s guard. Although he gave up a takedown in Round 1 and laughed at the fact that JDM resorted to grappling to defeat him, he completely shut down his efforts the rest of the fight.

He landed a nasty leg kick at the end of round 2 which was the beginning of the end for the former champion. Then in round 3, he landed some dangerous elbows, before another leg kick dropped Della Maddalena again and secured the victory by TKO for Prates at 3:17 of the third round.

Although Carlos Prates probably won’t get a title fight in his comeback, he’s sure to get another big prize later this year. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the next four fight options for the welterweight star.

Kamru Usman

After three consecutive losses, welterweight veteran Kamaru Usman scored an impressive victory against Joaquin Buckley last June. He has been on the sidelines since then as he next looks for a title fight against Islam Makhachev. This does not seem possible.

While Prates is dangerous, this is a good matchup for Usman, and defeating him could secure the title fight he wants. For the Brazilian, it will also be a chance to add a third former champion to his hit list and secure a title fight this year.

Belal Muhammad (if he beats Gabriel Bonfim)

Former champion Belal Muhammad will have a chance to get back on his winning streak and end a two-fight losing streak against fast-rising star Gabriel Bonfim next month. If he can get his first win since July 2024, it would mean a clash with Prats in the autumn.

It will be a chance for the American to prove he can still hang with the young contenders in the top five, and for Prats, it will be the toughest test of his takedown defense yet.

ian machado gary

If Prates wants to prove he’s worthy of a title fight soon, avenging his only loss in the UFC – a blowout to Ian Machado Garry in April 2025 – should be an option. Both have possibly been blocked from a title fight by Michael Morales. So the No. 1 contenders facing off in a rematch could easily headline another Fight Night card. Especially if it’s in Brazil.

The big question is, will Gary be willing to risk another clash with Prats? This will be a tough sell. Maybe the UFC could make it part of a four-man title tournament?

Islam Makhachev

Will Prats next jump into a title shot with new champ Makhachev? Probably not. But fight booking is a strange thing, especially when injuries or priorities come into play. There’s no doubt that the champ is simply looking for a favorable matchup because he’s not getting the fight he really wants.

While Prats deserves respect, the Russian may try to steal his momentum and show that there are many levels to grapple with in a matchup in which he should perform well and receive a big check for it.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

fulham Striker Rodrigo Muniz is having a very different season compared to his previous two campaigns, scoring just one goal in 19 appearances in all competitions.

After signing a new contract and becoming a key attacking figure at Craven Cottage over the past few seasons, expectations were higher this time around. However, injuries and a lack of rhythm have disrupted his momentum, forcing the Brazilian to rebuild his form step by step.

Those struggles formed the backdrop for a recent interview espn brazilHeld just before Fulham’s trip to Anfield last Saturday. Muniz started that match, leading the line and later being substituted, as Fulham were defeated 2–0 at home.

Hurt struggles and searches for rhythm

Rodrigo Muniz opened up about the difficult times he has endured in recent months.

“The last six months were tough. I’ve been back for a month now. I don’t feel 100% yet. In the last two weeks without playing, they worked on me more with different training, and now I feel good.”

This is a huge difference from the 2024/25 season. Due to his excellent form, his name was added a lot One step towards Atalanta This could not happen last summer. And he knows that everyone misses his performance.

“I still hope to be the Rodrigo of last season. I think I have everything to be the same player again who scores goals.”

He also pointed to external factors that can affect performance levels.

“Not only Brazilians, but players everywhere feel better when it’s warm. When it’s cold, it’s no excuse, but it’s a little harder.”

Studying the forwards and improving my game.

Rodrigo Muniz revealed he is still studying other forward players closely, especially Ollie Watkins.

“He’s a player that catches my attention. I watch videos because of his movement. He can come in short and attack space. That’s what I need to do. He makes movements that confuse defenders. Because of that and the goals he’s scored, he really stands out.”

However, he also admitted that his game needs to be adapted depending on the opponent.

“I think Marco Silva prepares the team very well for each week. There are games where I have to drop deeper, others where I have to push the defense back more. It depends on the match.”

Teammates, Brazil relations and dressing room life

Rodrigo Muniz also spoke emotionally about former teammate Andreas Pereira.

“He is someone I will have like a brother for the rest of my life. I miss him every day. For the last three years he was here, helping me. The club also misses him because he was one of the captains and brought good things on and off the field.”

He also shared a lighter moment about his time in England, which included watching the match from the stands while injured.

“I asked the club if I could watch, but there was no room in the boxes. They said there was a place with fans. I said OK and went there. It was a great experience.”

He remembered hearing his mantra.

“When I arrived, the fans were already singing my song. I thought, ‘This is amazing’.”

Future ambitions and goals of Fulham

Looking at the bigger picture, Muniz made it clear that Fulham still have ambitions for the final stages of the season.

“Marco Silva is very ambitious. In the meetings, he makes clear that we can reach Europe, but we need results. We have seven finals left and must treat them like finals. We have everything to do it because our season is going well.”

His motivation on a personal level is equally clear.

“Playing in Europe has been a dream since I was a kid. I’ve been here for a long time, from the Championship to the Premier League, and it will be very special.”

Ultimately, the defeat at Anfield underlined the challenge ahead for him. He is back on the field, but still searching for his best form.

The final weeks of the season will now be crucial for Fulham’s ambitions and Muniz’s attempt to prove last season was not a one-off.

BOSTON – As a reigning MVP who is often nicknamed the “free-throw merchant,” Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander credits Boston Celtics All-Star Jaylen Brown’s frequent trips to the charity stripe. Brown led the Celtics to a 119–109 victory against the Thunder, ending the defending champions’ 12-game winning streak.

Brown shot 12 of 31 from the free-throw line, making all but two of his 14 attempts. After the game, Gilgeous-Alexander gave Brown his flowers and credited him with giving him a pair of flowers Dominant performance in both the meetings Against the Thunder.

Gilgeous-Alexander said, “They did a really good job of getting to the free-throw line, especially against us. I think it’s 14 twice. So, 28 free throws in two games? Great job.” “The best players in the history of the game go to the free-throw line. It’s part of the game and statistically the most effective way to score points.”

SGA on Jaylen Brown’s approach vs. the Thunder: “He’s done a really good job of getting to the free-throw line, especially against us. I think it’s 14 twice.

So 28 free throws in two games? Very good work. The best players in the history of the game go to the free-throw line.… pic.twitter.com/OVlyEfKFsQ

-Joshua Peacock (@Joe_Sway) 26 March 2026

In a 104–102 loss to the Thunder on March 12, Jaylen Brown went 13 of 14 from the free-throw line, before he and the Celtics avenged that loss in a 10-point win on Thursday. Scoring 12 of his 31 points from the line, Jaylen led Boston to an impressive two-point victory at the TD Garden.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander admits Thunder ‘failed’ against Celtics

Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander saw his team suffer setbacks amid multiple injuries throughout the regular season, he knows what to expect against the Celtics — a stellar effort. Gilgeous-Alexander description A lively playoff-type atmosphere At TD Garden.

Gilgeous-Alexander said, “Every time you play the Boston Celtics, you get that playoff feel. No matter what day it is. No matter who’s there. They’re very well-coached. They have really good players.” “This is one of the premier organizations to play in the league, and they bring it every night. It doesn’t matter who is there.

“[They] There is a culture. They check all the boxes, and that’s why they’ve been successful over the years. It’s a game where you see where you really are, and they test you. Tonight we were tested; We did not pass it.”

SGA on playing at TD Garden: “Every time you play the Boston Celtics, you get that playoff feeling. It doesn’t matter what day it is. It doesn’t matter who’s there.

They are very well trained. They have really good players… It’s a game where you see where you really are and they test you. We got… pic.twitter.com/9BG0gRrqXa

-Joshua Peacock (@Joe_Sway) 26 March 2026

Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 33 points, eight assists and two steals in Thursday’s loss to the Celtics.

Branyan Gruda’s loan move from Brighton & Hove Albion to RB Leipzig in the January transfer window was made with the World Cup in mind.

The 21-year-old also admitted, stating back in february The summer tournament was firmly in his thinking.

That plan now sounds like a masterstroke. In seven games so far for Leipzig, Gruda has scored three goals and two assists.

Gruda produced his best performance for Leipzig on Friday night, scoring twice and providing an assist in a 5–0 demolition of Hoffenheim. And this was enough to convince Didi Hamann that Gruda should be in Julian Nagelsmann’s plans.

“Gruda is definitely someone you should think about. I believe he will win the World Cup.” he told Sky Germany.

“He’s technically talented, two-footed and he has pace. I think Gruda is a player we don’t have. I’m a big fan of his.”

leipzig responsibility

The former Bayern Munich and Liverpool midfielder believes the move to Leipzig is largely responsible for Bjarna Gruda’s improved performances.

He had struggled to settle at Brighton, particularly under Fabian Herzeler. For example, this season, he made 18 appearances in the Premier League but only 896 minutes.

That is not the case under Ole Werner at Leipzig. Instead he immediately installed Gruda as the results starter and was rewarded for his faith. Hamann also believes that the atmosphere at his loan club is good for him.

“When I heard he was leaving Brighton my first thought was that he might still be able to make the World Cup squad,” He added.

“It seems that the atmosphere in Leipzig is being good for him.”

nagelsman unaffiliated

However, Julian Nagelsmann is not convinced. He has recently criticized the 21-year-old’s development and wants to see more from him.

“Ultimately, it’s about him scoring more goals and providing more assists. For his quality, it’s still not enough,” He said. The Germany coach was not impressed with the Brighton man in his last call-up before Euro 2024.

At that moment he realized “He didn’t fully realize he had a chance to be a part of the domestic European Championships.”.

Therefore, Gruda remains in the U21 national team. But after his performance against Hoffenheim, he is confident about his chances. “With good performance, all doors are open,” He said.

There will be more demonstrations like that and perhaps he and Haman will be proven right.

🇧🇷 Special: Alvaro Montoro ‼️

➡️Brighton interest texter meets financial crisis
➡️ #BHAFC The official saw them against Gremio
➡️ Traveled to Porto Alegre especially for Montoro
➡️ Pedro Reinert explains the situation in Brazil…https://t.co/jLvcE1ZoHR

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 19 March 2026

The Los Angeles Lakers’ winning streak ended at nine games after losing 113-110 to the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on Monday.

The Lakers rallied from a 16-point deficit to take a 110–109 lead after Austin Reaves’ jumper with 30 seconds remaining. However, Dennis Jenkins immediately responded with a bucket and two free throws.

Los Angeles still had a chance to win, but Luka Doncic missed a three-pointer.

The Lakers fell to 46–26, while the Pistons won their fourth straight game and seventh game in eight assignments to improve to 52–19. They still suffered a loss as Cade Cunningham was diagnosed with a damaged lung, keeping him out for a long period of time.

LeBron James admits the Pistons have didn’t miss a beat Despite Cunningham’s absence, as Coty Davis of The Detroit News reports.

“They’re super physical, super fast, they play well, they execute well, and they’re well-coached. No difference. I mean, obviously, the only difference is that you have an MVP-type caliber player out there,” James said.

“But when you have a really good team, guys step up. They can’t compensate for what Cade brings to the table because Cade is that guy, but other guys are stepping up.”

“Nobody…when you have a really good team, people step up.”

LeBron James speaks on whether it makes a difference playing against #piston With and without Cade Cunningham.

The Pistons are now 8-2 without Cunningham after their win against the Lakers. pic.twitter.com/OCpkZgvaLe

– Coty M. Davis (@CotyDavis_24) 24 March 2026

James did not score in the first half before finishing with 12 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists.

Jenkins, who has played admirably for Cunningham, scored a career-high 30 points on 11-of-18 shooting, including 4-of-5 from deep. He added four rebounds and eight assists.

The Pistons, who have already clinched a playoff spot, have others who could step up without Cunningham, including Marcus Sasser, Caris LeVert, Kevin Huerter and Javonte Green.

On Monday evening, the Atlanta Hawks picked up their tenth consecutive win with a home win over the Orlando Magic. It was an excellent game for guard Nickell Alexander-Walker, who set a career high with 41 points on nine three-pointers, and Jalen Johnson recorded his 13th triple double of the season in the win.

The basketball world has begun to pay attention to the Hawks now that they have posted their longest winning streak since their 60-win season in 2014-15, and one person joining in the praise is former NBA wing Chandler Parsons, who went on FanDuel’s “Run It Back” show to express his thoughts.

“This is the hottest team in the NBA right now… They’re playing their best basketball at the right time,” Parsons said, according to Axe, formerly of Run It Back, on Twitter.

Indeed, NBA teams typically try to prepare in March and April to play their best basketball, which is what the Hawks have been able to do over the past few weeks, losing just one game since the All-Star break.

Atlanta currently sits in eighth place in the Eastern Conference at 37-31, but is just 1.5 games out of the fifth seed, which could be very well within reach if the team continues its winning ways.

Through it all, Johnson has continued to establish himself as a rising superstar following his first All-Star appearance, and Alexander-Walker looks poised to compete for the Most Improved Player of the Year award. If he wins it, he will be the second consecutive Hawks player to win the award, joining Dyson Daniels.

The Hawks will next take the field against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday evening as they look to take their win streak to 11.

As Jayson Tatum recovered from his Achilles injury, every NBA superstar praised him. For Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker, his reaction was no different.

That is his makeup. This is his DNA. That’s his perspective,” Booker said via AZCentral’s Duane Rankin on X (formerly Twitter). “Someone I’ve looked up to for a really long time since he was in 6th and 7th grade.

“I’m watching him grow into a champion. What he’s accomplished at such a young age is inspiring, even if it’s small. I’m happy to see him back out there.”

When Tatum first came out with an injury, many thought he would not return for the season. But as time progressed, it began to look more likely that the Boston Celtics forward would make his season debut in 2025-26.

But a few weeks ago, he was watching the Celtics beat the Suns 97-81 on Feb. 24. Now, Tatum will face off against Phoenix for the first time all year.

Devin Booker and Jayson Tatum share mutual respect

Both players were part of the 2024 USA Basketball men’s national team that captured the gold medal. Although Tatum didn’t get a lot of playing time, being a part of a roster like this is quite an accomplishment.

Booker, meanwhile, was the unsung MVP for that team, and something that the Boston star could have been for an Olympic team one day.

Either way, the focus remains on the 2025-26 season, and where the Celtics have a legitimate chance to win the Eastern Conference and make a run for an NBA championship.

Stephen A. Smith has never been one to shy away from confrontation, and he recently got into a fight with the New Orleans Pelicans. Following a segment where he was critical of Zion Williamson’s weight, the Pelicans social media team retaliated by reposting a video in which Stephen A. Smith was missing jump shots that he was attempting on the basketball court, as well as being a poor athlete in boxing.

The audio of the video was also an earlier example of him giving his assessment of Kwame Brown’s involvement in the Pau Gasol trade in February 2008, where he called Brown a “true man”. Smith fired back on Wednesday’s edition of ESPN take firstEven touting his HBCU credentials.

“You left something out and you know what? You left out the fact that I was in the fourth grade and I was left back out because I had a first-grade readership. And here I am on national television after graduating from an HBCU, going up against Hall of Famers who have played professional sports all the time… the elite journalist in this business, and I’m coming from an HBCU and still doing what I’m doing.”

Smith is a graduate of Winston-Salem State University and has done significant HBCU philanthropy work throughout her career. He has also used the platform of take first to highlight HBCUs and HBCU athletics, but Smith has been involved in numerous feuds and wars of words, often citing his HBCU connections.

Still, the Pelicans are undaunted, as they posted a response tweet to Smith’s criticism with the caption, “A five-minute monologue from a former NBA player on how to shoot.” The feud will eventually settle down, but Stephen A. is determined to show that he is not to be messed with.

Nolan Traore is finding his feet with the Brooklyn Nets. The 19-year-old rookie has impressed with his composure as the team’s primary ball-handler after earning the starting role. He put in another encouraging performance against fellow Frenchman Victor Wembanyama during Brooklyn’s loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday.

Wembanyama, who first met Traoré during the French national team’s preparations for the 2024 Olympics, spoke highly of his potential future teammate.

“[Nolan’s] Very young, and he was even younger when we were preparing for the Olympics in 2024,” he said, “and already, what I saw in him was maturity and the way he could control the game. And by the way, it doesn’t matter who the opponent is. He has real guts, and I believe he is someone who will make incredible growth in his career.

Victor Wembanyama has high praise for Nolan Traore as he trains in the lead up to the 2024 Olympics:

“What I saw in him was maturity and the way he could control the game. And the way he could control the game, no matter who the opponent was. He has real guts. I believe… pic.twitter.com/rAr5i8lfj4

– Eric Slater (@erikslater_) 27 February 2026

Many considered Traore to be one of the top five prospects at the start of the 2025 pre-draft process. However, after an up and down 2024-25 season, he dropped to number 19 in the nets.

Nolan Traore impresses in starting point guard role in Nets’ rebuild

Traore struggled during his first NBA appearance and the Nets assigned him to the G League at the beginning of the season. After a highly productive extension with Long Island, the rookie point guard has emerged as the focal point of Brooklyn’s offense during the second half of the season.

Traore is averaging 11.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 5.3 assists on 44/30/76 shooting splits in 15 starts. The French floor general is the only NBA rookie to average 11 points and five assists during that span. His 6.2 assists per 100 possessions this season ranks third among all rookies who have played more than 800 minutes, trailing only Walter Clayton Jr. (6.6) and Dylan Harper (6.2).

“Nolan always believed he belonged,” Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez said. “He always fights back, and he’s becoming the voice and presence that we believe he is. He’s not there yet because we also believe his ceiling is very high. These last 23 games are huge for him, huge for this group going into the summer, which will be the greatest summer of our lives.”

Marvin Bagley’s idea came up in the discourse surrounding the Dallas Mavericks’ trade return for Anthony Davis. However, the former No. 2 pick has impressed the Mavericks during his first game since the blockbuster deal.

Bagley had his most efficient performance of the season during Tuesday’s 123-124 win over the Brooklyn Nets. The 6-foot-10 big man posted a team-high 22 points and five rebounds on 10 of 13 shooting in 20 minutes off the bench.

Jason Kidd said of Bagley’s performance, “He’s a really good player.” Talking to him revealed that he has grown up and understands the NBA game a little. Sometimes it takes time. We all want it to happen overnight. But I think the coaching staff, the media, everybody that’s been on this road trip with him has made him comfortable, and you can see how he’s playing. If it’s not in the post, it’s an offensive rebound, and then playing defense for us. So everyone’s confidence is high, and he’s brand new, and it just shows how talented he is.”

Bagley has not been able to find a home in the NBA since being selected No. 2 by the Sacramento Kings in 2018, ahead of Luka Doncic, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Trae Young.

Mavericks’ Bagley makes headlines during first game with Mavs after Anthony Davis trade

The former Duke star changed teams six times during his eight-year NBA career. After spending his first three seasons with the Kings, he saw stints with the Detroit Pistons, Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards before landing in Dallas at this year’s trade deadline.

While Bagley has had a disappointing career, he is making the most of his new opportunity with the rebuilding Mavericks. With Derek Lively sidelined, the 26-year-old is averaging 13.0 points and 8.2 rebounds on 64.3 percent shooting in five appearances with the team.

“Just keep building,” Bagley said of his mindset after Tuesday’s win. “It’s just continuing to learn each other, at least for me and the new guys. Just continuing to gel with the guys that are here, learning the system, and just doing my best every day and giving it my all. That’s my mentality, and it seems like everyone else here has the same mentality. I love being a part of it, and I’m glad I have teammates like that.”

Bagley’s minimum contract is expiring and he will be an unrestricted free agent this summer.

SAN FRANCISCO – Among the stars the Golden State Warriors are credited with developing, hockey player Maclin Celebrini may turn out to be one of the most talented players of them all.

The son of Golden State vice president of player health and performance Rick Celebrini, the 19-year-old Maclin has achieved superstar status in the NHL for the revamped San Jose Sharks and Team Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. This is a miraculous achievement that not only has the hockey world excited, but the entire Warriors organization is also cheering him on.

Before Celebrini and Team Canada’s highly anticipated gold medal match with Team USA, Dubs coach Steve Kerr spoke at length about the kid’s inner excitement as he watched him shoot hoops after practice with his dad and some of the players.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” Kerr said. “Yesterday, in the film session, half our team was watching the last two minutes of the game, because it was 2-2. It was 10 o’clock, and we had to start the film, and we were like, ‘No, we’re gonna see what happens.'”

What happened was that Canada was leading Finland in the final minutes of the third period, and Celebrini finished with a team-high 25:53 TOI – an incredible feat for a young player.

But before becoming the youngest NHL player on Canada’s men’s Olympic team, Celebrini was on the hardwood when he wasn’t training on the ice. Kerr recounted several occasions when Maclin and his brothers would play 2-on-2 full court at the Dubs facilities after practice. You read that right, 2-on-2, full courtWith his mother, Robin, jumping as the fourth player to do the same split.

“You want to see an athletic family working out,” Kerr said with a laugh. “That’s one of the fun parts of the job, seeing the families be a part of it…it’s one of the best parts of the job. When we finish the game, every game, win or lose, we open the doors to the family room, and the kids come in in droves, and it’s awesome.

“I sit in my office, I have a beer, and I look down, and I see these little pickup games happening with our players’ kids and the coaches’ kids. People are running around and players are coming out, hugging their kids like it’s a special profession, you know, being able to share that with their kids and they have, you know, memories to last a lifetime, but also good perspective for everybody.”

Whether Kerr and the Warriors saw early signs of what Celebrity would become is debatable. For Moses Moody, who recalled the time the two spent over the summer rehabilitating their personal injuries, he always knew Celebrini was destined for greatness.

“You know that trend that was going on with LeBron? Telling how he knew from the beginning?” Moody smiled. “Yeah, when I first came here, I saw him and he had that look in his eyes! And I said he’s going to do that—no, I’m kidding.”

Although Moody may not have the vision that LeBron James has when it comes to Maclin, he is quickly making an impact on his youngest brother, RJ.

“Actually, his younger brother, the youngest brother. I talked to him for a while, and really, he has this quiet confidence and competitiveness, composure. I’m saying it already. I see something; got a look in his eyes. But even in Mac – he’s got that quiet confidence… Being around him, he doesn’t overdo it. But you can tell he’s working. He’s precise in conversation, you can just tell when someone is a thinker, More of a talkative type of person.”

In that vein, Kerr compared Celebrini’s maturity and leadership to that of another superstar—Stephen Curry. Kerr described intangible things you can’t teach. There’s no limit to where those traits can take him. But if you ask Gary Payton II, he believes Celebrini can enshrine his name among the greats.

“I think he’s eventually going to be one of them when it’s all said and done, like Wayne, Sid, Alex, Mac,” Payton said. “It’s exciting to see it from the beginning. [We’ll] Let’s see where it goes, and it’s going very, very well right now… I’m definitely supporting Mac.”

Even with the incredible opportunity to be with Team USA tomorrow on the global stage, Celebrini is just getting started. But for a Warriors organization that saw one of their own truly develop into the star everyone looks up to today, that’s a special, special thing.

“Everyone is busy, especially the people who have been here a while, who know Rick and Macklin and the family very well,” Kerr said. “So it’s been great to see it all develop. And to see the pride in Rick’s eyes and hear it in his voice, it’s amazing.”

The Los Angeles Lakers last faced the LA Clippers in the 2025–26 regular season, and as those matchups usually are, it also lost. And while LeBron James was there to close out the game, Kawhi Leonard was forced to leave late with an ankle injury.

James finished the night with 13 points, three rebounds and 11 assists on 5-of-13 shooting for the Lakers, who defeated the Clippers 125–122. Kawhi Leonard produced 31 points, four rebounds and five assists on 11-of-19 shooting in 31 minutes of play before departing with 5:10 remaining in the fourth quarter.

After the game, LeBron James was asked about Kawhi Leonard and his resiliency to come back from injury and perform at an All-Star level.

“Kawhi is amazing, man,” James said. “He’s the best. He’s one of the best players ever. And I couldn’t care less about injuries. Those things, you can’t control. You can only control the guys, and the things he’s controlling is how he comes back and how much perseverance he has every time.”

In 42 appearances this season, Kawhi Leonard is averaging 27.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.0 steals per game, while shooting 49 percent from the field, 37.8 percent from three and 90.7 percent from the free throw line.

His strong play throughout the season, but especially since mid-December, has been a big reason why the Clippers have been able to climb out of the 6-21 hole they started the season with.

“He’s a – that guy is amazing,” LeBron James continued. “I swear. I have nothing but good things to say about Kawhi and the kind of basketball he’s been playing the last few months. I mean, he’s been the same for a season. I’m not surprised by this. On another note, I was disappointed on the 2024 Olympic team when he wasn’t able to go with us. I was hoping to make the team with the ‘Whee’ as well. I was a little disappointed about that when he had to deal with another injury. Spent some time with him, but listen, he’s great. He had 31 points in 12 minutes. Obviously, I could talk about him all night.”

I heard LeBron James speak incredibly highly of Kawhi Leonard when I asked him about the resiliency he saw in him:

“Kawhi is amazing, man. He’s the best. He’s one of the best players ever. I couldn’t care less about injuries… That guy is amazing. I swear I don’t have anything… pic.twitter.com/GipDxoJRfX

– Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) 21 February 2026

Kawhi Leonard has dealt with a number of injuries in his career, from a torn ACL to a torn meniscus, not to mention quad and knee inflammation difficulties, in recent years.

LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard have not played 40 games against each other – 28 in the regular season and 12 in the playoffs. Leonard has won 15 of those 28 regular season games and seven of those 12 playoff games.

James and his Miami Heat won the 2013 NBA Championship against Kawhi Leonard and the San Antonio Spurs. Leonard and his Spurs defeated James and his Heat in the 2014 NBA Finals.

The Los Angeles Clippers suffered a 125–122 loss against the city rival Los Angeles Lakers, with Kawhi Leonard having to leave early with an ankle injury. Led by Luka Doncic’s 38 points and 11 assists, the Lakers fielded a trio of Doncic, Austin Reaves and LeBron James, who had one of their best offensive performances of the season.

After the game, Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue praised his team, claiming that they fought to the end despite great adversity.

Tyronn Lue Postgame

“Don’t feel like any team is trying to beat me.” pic.twitter.com/0Pdv8KLZiU

– Law Murray 🏴‍☠️ (@LawMurrayTheNU) 21 February 2026

“You see, that’s who we are. This group, we’re gonna compete, we’re gonna fight every night. This doesn’t look like a bullshit team that’s trying to lose to me. We’ll scrape by every night. We’ll fight every night. That’s who we are. Teams that are gonna play against us know we’re gonna fight every night,” he said, according to a post by The Athletic’s Law Murray on X.

The Lakers started with an early offensive burst, led by Doncic’s 17-point quarter, as the Clippers returned from a 12-point deficit in the first quarter. However, the reaction was just as dramatic.

Leonard shot clinically throughout, finishing 11 of 19 shooting, including an impressive 19-point second quarter that kept the game from slipping away. The Clippers’ physical ability and comeback provided another encouraging sign.

They had a significant early advantage in second-chance production, outscoring the Lakers 14–2 on offensive rebounds in the first half. This helped them flip the script as they overcame a 15-point deficit to take a 17-0 lead.

However, Leonard’s ejection with a little more than five minutes remaining proved to be the turning point. Despite bringing the score to 123–120 with only 46 seconds remaining, the Clippers struggled to stay in the game and ultimately lost.

However, as he pointed out, Tyronn Lue’s team fought until the end and will have plenty of positives to take from the defeat.

Randers director of football Soren Pedersen has revealed that he is due to various bonus provisions in the deal that saw him sell Mohamed Toure to Norwich City.

Bold cover comments from Randers chief today. He was more than happy to talk about the sale of the Striker. The deal he signed with Norwich could prove fruitful for the 21-year-old.

Toure joined the Canaries on a €3m deal at the end of the January transfer window. Sport Witness covered it at the time, Explaining how he quickly completed negotiations for the striker.

norwich deal

So far the deal seems to be a profitable one. The Australian has performed brilliantly at Carrow Road, scoring four goals in two matches so far in the Championship. This included a hat-trick in the 3-0 win over Oxford United last weekend.

It took just 47 minutes to achieve this. He became the first player since September 2013 to debut with a hat-trick in England’s top four divisions. Norwich have not seen a player achieve such a start since 1966.

iToure has made a high-flying start to life as a Canary, with a goal also in the FA Cup.

Randers is watching his performance closely. He joined them in July 2024 for €250,000, and recorded 12 goals and nine assists in 48 games for the club.

There’s more to come from Norwich

Their sale to Norwich was the joint second largest in their history. Tamar Benny’s €4m transfer to West Brom in 2024 is in that spot. However, Pederson is pleased with their conversation.

“The talks with Norwich were good,” he said.

“They showed understanding of our demands and the possibilities we see. I can’t comment on the numbers, but can only say that it’s a good Randers sale.

“So, it’s clear that if he had played the whole autumn, as he has started at Norwich, the price would probably have been different.

“But that wasn’t the case, and that’s why we’re proud of the sales we made. We’re certainly looking forward to both receiving the various bonuses and the opportunity to realize the existing resale segment. Because that has the potential to go really far.”

After the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, it was Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards who walked away with the MVP trophy. Edwards helped lead Team Stars to a 47–21 win against Team Stripes in the final game of the new round-robin tournament format. The Timberwolves star finished with eight points, four rebounds and two assists in the final game.

After the All-Star Game, ESPN reporter Brian Windhorst talked about why Anthony Edwards should get more praise as one of the rising faces of the NBA.

“This guy does everything you want from a superstar,” Windhorst said. “He plays on both ends of the court, he has great dunks, he’s a great 3-point shooter, he has a great personality, he’s been a winner. He hasn’t won any championships, but he’s led the Wolves to their best two years in franchise history, and he has incredible competitive juice that he’s shown in this game.”

“I think Ant Edwards is a guy who is going to be a focal point for Team USA going forward,” Windhorst continued. “A centerpiece of All-Star games moving forward, and it’s not something he’s always wanted… but he’s so magnetic. This is a guy the NBA needs to invest heavily in moving forward. They don’t have a choice, they have to.”

The two seasons Windhorst was referring to were the last two seasons when the Wolves reached consecutive Western Conference Finals. Previously, the franchise had made only one conference final appearance in its entire history, in 2004, when Kevin Garnett was at his peak.

This season, Edwards has played just over 35 minutes per game in 46 games. His career averages have been 29.3 points and 5.2 rebounds. Averaged 3.7 assists and 1.3 steals, shooting 49.3 percent from the field, 40.2 percent shooting from the 3-point line and 79.5 percent shooting from the free-throw line.