Alijah Martin, the Raptors' new draft pick, is showing major respect for franchise legend Vince Carter by choosing not to wear Carter’s iconic jersey number. The Florida Gators standout, who just won a national championship, made it clear he recognizes Carter’s legacy and wants to carve out his own path in Toronto.

Editor’s Note: Jersey numbers might seem small, but in sports, they carry big symbolism. Martin’s decision highlights how younger players still revere the icons who shaped the game—and it’s a classy move that Raptors fans will appreciate. It’s also a subtle nod to the weight of legacy in the NBA, where respect between generations matters.

NBA veteran Alex Caruso opened up about the stark differences between winning his first championship with the Lakers in 2020 and his recent title run with the Thunder. The 2020 victory was overshadowed by the pandemic—no parade, no big celebrations—while this time, he got the full championship experience. His candid reflection highlights how external circumstances can shape the emotional weight of even the biggest achievements.

Editor’s Note: Championships aren’t all the same—context matters. Caruso’s honesty gives fans a peek into the human side of pro sports, where timing and luck (good or bad) can define how a career milestone feels. It’s also a subtle reminder of how COVID disrupted not just lives but even the rituals of victory.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have reportedly picked up Iowa standout Payton Sandfort as an undrafted free agent (UDFA), adding another young talent to their roster. Sandfort, a sharpshooting wing, now gets his shot in the NBA after going unselected in the draft.

Editor’s Note: For Thunder fans, this is a low-risk, high-reward move. Sandfort was a reliable scorer in college, and if he pans out, OKC could have another hidden gem on their hands. For Sandfort, it’s a chance to prove himself—UDFA deals don’t guarantee much, but they’re often where underrated players make their mark. Given OKC’s track record with player development, this could be a great fit.

Kevin Durant, who left the Brooklyn Nets in a high-profile trade last year, reportedly reached out to former Nets GM Sean Marks and ex-coach Steve Nash on Thursday. The nature of the message isn’t detailed, but it’s intriguing given Durant’s rocky exit and the team’s dramatic reshuffling since his departure.

Editor’s Note: Durant’s relationship with the Nets’ leadership was strained during his time there, so any communication—even if vague—raises eyebrows. For NBA fans, it’s a small but juicy nugget about how players and front offices interact (or don’t) after messy breakups. Could this hint at buried hatchets, or is it just routine? Either way, it’s a reminder that drama in the league doesn’t always end when the trade papers are signed.

Two Auburn basketball stars, Dylan Cardwell and Miles Kelly, have officially turned pro after signing contracts with NBA teams following the draft. While they weren’t drafted, they’ve secured their spots in the league—a big win for both players and Auburn’s program.

Editor’s Note: Landing an NBA contract, even undrafted, is a huge milestone. For Auburn, it’s another sign of their ability to develop pro-ready talent. For fans, it’s a chance to cheer on familiar faces at the highest level—proof that hard work pays off, even if the path isn’t always straightforward.

The Miami Heat are giving former Memphis standout Dain Dainja a shot to prove himself, adding the big man to their summer league roster. It’s a low-risk move for the Heat, who’ll get a closer look at whether Dainja’s college game can translate to the pros.

Editor’s Note: Summer league is where potential gets tested—think of it as a tryout for fringe NBA talent. For Dainja, this is a chance to catch Miami’s eye and maybe earn a training camp invite. For fans, it’s a glimpse at the kind of under-the-radar moves that could pay off later.

The Lakers' offseason just got a little more interesting with news about JJ Redick wrapping up his debut season as head coach. While the article doesn’t dive deep into wins and losses, it’s a notable update for fans keeping tabs on how the team is shaping up under new leadership.

Editor’s Note: Coaching changes in the NBA always ripple through the league, especially when it’s a high-profile team like the Lakers. Redick’s first year is a talking point—whether it’s about growing pains, potential, or what comes next. For basketball fans, it’s a checkpoint in the Lakers’ ongoing rebuild (or retooling, depending on who you ask).

The Boston Celtics are shaking things up—again. After two big trades, there’s chatter that another key player might be on the way out. It’s a risky move for a team that’s already seen its fair share of roster turnover lately.

Editor’s Note: For Celtics fans, this is déjà vu. Losing another player could mean more growing pains—or a sign the team’s rebuilding. Either way, it’s a storyline worth watching, especially with the season looming.

Former Louisville hoops standout Chucky Hepburn, who surprisingly went undrafted in 2025, just landed a two-way contract with the Toronto Raptors. It’s a shot at proving himself in the NBA—part time with the big club, part time in the G League—and a shot at redemption after draft night disappointment.

Editor’s Note: For Hepburn, this deal is a lifeline. Two-way contracts don’t guarantee stardom, but they’re a foot in the door for players who slip through the draft cracks. For the Raptors, it’s a low-risk bet on potential. And for fans? It’s a feel-good underdog story—everyone loves seeing a guy get another chance to chase the dream.