Hiltzik: The NBA's gambling scandal was utterly predictable — and other pro sports will be next

Victor Wembanyama, the 21-year-old star of the San Antonio Spurs, has been named the NBA's Western Conference Player of the Week for the second time in his career. This recognition comes after an impressive start to the season, showcasing his exceptional talent and potential. Wembanyama expressed his excitement about the honor, highlighting its significance in his early career. This achievement not only underscores his individual skills but also raises expectations for the Spurs as they aim for success this season.

ESPN has announced an exciting extension of its Beyond Sports partnership, which will now include animated altcasts featuring the WNBA for the first time. This move not only enhances the viewing experience for fans but also highlights the growing recognition and support for women's sports in mainstream media. By integrating popular animated shows like The Simpsons into sports broadcasts, ESPN is tapping into a unique way to engage audiences, making sports more accessible and entertaining for a wider demographic.

Damon Jones, a former player and coach, has found himself embroiled in a significant betting scandal due to his close friendship with NBA superstar LeBron James. His insider access allowed him to share sensitive information with gamblers, raising serious ethical concerns about the integrity of the game. This situation not only tarnishes Jones's reputation but also casts a shadow over the NBA, highlighting the potential vulnerabilities in sports betting and the need for stricter regulations.

Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers expressed his disappointment after a tough loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, especially following his recent career-high performance of 51 points against the Sacramento Kings. This loss highlights the challenges teams face in maintaining momentum in the NBA, as they must quickly shift focus and recover from setbacks. Reaves' candid remarks shed light on the emotional toll of competitive sports and the importance of resilience.

Stephen Curry, a superstar of the Golden State Warriors, humorously acknowledged his age during a recent interview, reflecting on his impressive 17-year career in the NBA. Despite being in his late thirties, Curry continues to perform at an elite level, showcasing his enduring talent and relevance in the sport. This light-hearted remark not only highlights his self-awareness but also endears him further to fans, reminding everyone that age is just a number when it comes to skill and passion.

Lauri Markkanen has made history for the Utah Jazz in their recent overtime victory against the Suns, marking a significant turnaround for a team that struggled last season. This win is particularly noteworthy as it highlights Markkanen's pivotal role in revitalizing the team's performance, especially after a disappointing previous season where they secured only 17 wins. Fans are excited about the potential this season holds, and Markkanen's achievement is a beacon of hope for the Jazz as they aim to improve their standing in the NBA.

Lauri Markkanen delivered an incredible performance, scoring a career-high 51 points to lead the Utah Jazz to a thrilling overtime victory against the Phoenix Suns. This remarkable achievement marks the fourth 50-point game in the NBA this season, showcasing the rising talent in the league and the excitement of competitive basketball. Markkanen's standout game not only highlights his skills but also adds to the Jazz's momentum as they aim for a successful season.

Nikola Jokić has made history by becoming only the third player in NBA history to record three consecutive triple-doubles at the start of a season. This remarkable achievement highlights his exceptional skills and consistency on the court, even as he navigates a slow start in scoring and three-point shooting. Jokić's performance not only showcases his talent but also sets a high standard for the season ahead, making fans excited about what he will accomplish next.

In a gripping Game 3 of the 2025 World Series, the Toronto Blue Jays faced a heartbreaking defeat against the Los Angeles Dodgers, largely due to missed opportunities and the absence of key players. By the end of the 18-inning marathon, four of Toronto's top hitters were sidelined, which significantly impacted their performance. This loss not only puts the Blue Jays in a tough spot in the series but also raises questions about their depth and strategy moving forward.

Scott Van Pelt is considering a shift from his late-night 'SportsCenter' slot to the earlier 'Around the Horn' timeslot. This potential change could reshape ESPN's programming landscape, as Van Pelt has become a prominent figure in sports broadcasting. Fans are curious about how this move might affect the show's dynamics and viewership, especially given Van Pelt's unique style and rapport with audiences.

Blue Jays fans showed incredible dedication by staying at Rogers Centre until 3 a.m. to witness their team play Game 3, but unfortunately, they left disappointed as the Blue Jays lost. This event highlights the passion and commitment of sports fans, even in the face of defeat, and serves as a reminder of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with being a supporter.

Michael Porter Jr. has publicly clarified his stance on Andrew Tate, stating that he disagrees with him on many issues. This clarification comes after some initial support that raised eyebrows among fans and commentators. It's important because it highlights the complexities of public figures navigating their opinions and the potential backlash they face when their views are misinterpreted or taken out of context.

Victor Wembanyama, the 21-year-old star of the San Antonio Spurs, has been named the NBA's Western Conference Player of the Week for the second time in his career. This recognition comes after an impressive start to the season, showcasing his exceptional talent and potential. Wembanyama expressed his excitement about the honor, highlighting its significance in his early career. This achievement not only underscores his individual skills but also raises expectations for the Spurs as they aim for success this season.

Blair Tickner is set to make his return to the New Zealand cricket team after a challenging two years marked by personal struggles, including his wife Sarah's leukaemia diagnosis. This comeback is significant not just for his career but also as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. Tickner's journey highlights the importance of family and mental health, reminding fans that life can be bigger than the sport itself.