Suns, Mercury announce $115M arena naming rights deal with owner Mat Ishbia's mortgage company

LeBron James will miss the Los Angeles Lakers' first preseason game against the Phoenix Suns due to a glute injury. This news is significant as it raises concerns about his health ahead of the new NBA season, especially considering his pivotal role in the team's performance. Coach JJ Redick is still experimenting with lineups during training camp, making James' absence a crucial factor in their preparations.

The WNBA Finals are set to kick off on October 3, and fans are eager to catch every moment of this exciting championship series between the Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury. This matchup not only showcases the top talent in women's basketball but also highlights the growing popularity of the WNBA. With a full schedule available, viewers can easily tune in to support their favorite teams and witness the thrilling competition.

Maxi Kleber of the Los Angeles Lakers has been diagnosed with a minor quad injury, which means he will miss the preseason opener against the Phoenix Suns. While any injury can be concerning, the news is positive as it appears to be minor, allowing Kleber to recover without significant long-term impact. This is crucial for the Lakers as they prepare for the upcoming season, and fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that it’s not a serious setback.

The Phoenix Mercury are gearing up for a challenging 2025 WNBA Finals against the Las Vegas Aces, who recently triumphed over the Indiana Fever in a thrilling overtime match. With a 3-1 season series disadvantage against the Aces, the Mercury must navigate critical pitfalls to enhance their chances of success. This matchup is significant not only for the teams involved but also for the league, as it showcases the competitive spirit and talent within women's basketball.

Kevin Durant is gearing up for an exciting new chapter with the Houston Rockets as he enters his first season with the team after a trade from the Phoenix Suns. Fans are eager to see how Durant, now on his fifth NBA team, will perform and whether he can elevate the Rockets' game after a challenging few years. His bold predictions for the upcoming 2025-26 season have sparked conversations about the team's potential and Durant's impact, making this a pivotal moment for both the player and the franchise.

The Minnesota Lynx's promising 2025 WNBA playoff run came to a sudden halt as they faced a shocking defeat against the Phoenix Mercury in the semifinals. The aftermath saw head coach Cheryl Reeve receiving a fine and a one-game suspension due to her heated reaction over a controversial no-call that resulted in an injury to star player Napheesa Collier. This incident has sparked significant debate and criticism, highlighting the intense emotions and stakes involved in professional sports, and raises questions about officiating and player safety.

The Phoenix Mercury's unexpected journey to the WNBA Finals is a testament to the impact of owner Mat Ishbia's significant investment in the team and its new $100 million practice facility. This achievement not only highlights the growing popularity of the WNBA but also positions the Mercury as a leading force in the league's future. As the WNBA gains more exposure, the Mercury's success could inspire other teams to invest similarly, potentially elevating the entire league.

The WNBA Finals feature the Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury, two teams that not only boast impressive championship records but also share a commitment to investing in their players. This proactive approach not only enhances team performance but also elevates the overall quality of the league, making it an exciting time for women's basketball.

Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx has made strong criticisms of WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, labeling her leadership as 'negligent' during her exit interview after the Lynx's playoff elimination by the Phoenix Mercury. Collier's remarks highlight significant concerns about the governance of the league, suggesting that despite having top talent and dedicated fans, the WNBA suffers from poor leadership. This situation raises questions about the future direction of the league and how it addresses the needs of its players and supporters.

The Phoenix Mercury are gearing up for the 2025 WNBA Finals, and one player has emerged as a key contributor despite not being in the spotlight. Kathryn Westbeld has consistently delivered crucial performances, boasting impressive shooting percentages in the playoffs. Her ability to make big shots is vital for the team's success, highlighting the importance of every player in achieving championship goals.

As the WNBA finals begin, the spotlight is not just on the teams but also on the referees, whose inconsistent officiating has raised concerns. This year's finals, featuring the Phoenix Mercury and Las Vegas Aces, come at a time when the league is experiencing significant growth and visibility. However, the potential for refereeing issues to overshadow the games is troubling, as fans and players alike hope for a fair and exciting championship series.

The Las Vegas Aces have made an impressive return to the WNBA Finals after a thrilling overtime victory against the Indiana Fever, showcasing their depth and experience. With a score of 107-98, the Aces demonstrated their resilience and skill, setting the stage for an exciting championship series against the Phoenix Mercury. This matchup is significant as it marks the Aces' third finals appearance in four years, highlighting their dominance in the league and the anticipation surrounding the upcoming games.

Kevin Durant recently invited sports host Kay Adams to watch him play in Houston, promising her a taste of Texas barbecue. This friendly gesture highlights Durant's approachable personality and his willingness to connect with fans and media alike. It also showcases the lighter side of the NBA, reminding us that behind the competitive spirit, players like Durant value relationships and community.

The latest Big 12 football power rankings reveal a shake-up as Arizona State's victory over TCU leaves only four undefeated teams in the conference. Iowa State maintains its top position, while Texas Tech faces challenges due to a key quarterback injury. This ranking is crucial for teams as they vie for playoff spots and aim to improve their standings in the competitive landscape of college football.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are making the most of their training camp at IMG Academy, focusing on team bonding and the positive impact of Lonzo Ball. Coach Kenny Atkinson emphasizes the importance of utilizing the academy's amenities to strengthen team dynamics. This approach not only enhances player relationships but also prepares the team for the upcoming season, showcasing a commitment to both skill development and camaraderie.

Dillon Dingler made history by joining a rare club in Detroit Tigers playoff lore during their recent 6-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians, which secured their spot in the American League Division Series. This win is significant as it marks a turnaround for the Tigers after a tough end to the season, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Dingler's impressive two-way game not only highlights his talent but also boosts the team's morale as they advance in the playoffs.

The latest injury report for the Denver Broncos brings some good news for tight end/fullback Nate Adkins, who was limited during Thursday's practice due to concussion protocol. This is a positive sign as it suggests he may be on track for a return, which is crucial for the team's offensive strategy. Adkins has been an underrated player, and his potential comeback could significantly impact the Broncos' performance in upcoming games.

The latest practice report from the Texans brings encouraging news as Derek Stingley returns to limited work while Nico Collins fully participates. This is significant for the team as both players are key contributors, and their return could enhance the Texans' performance in upcoming games.