American lawyer and sports executive, commissioner of the NBA
The White House has released a July Fourth report criticizing the Smithsonian’s portrayal of American history as biased toward activism. President Trump has issued an executive order directing sidewalk signs outside the Smithsonian and a temporary exhibit to present what he calls accurate information, while Smithsonian leadership defends ongoing scholarship and a fuller account of the nation’s story.
Tokyo has introduced a policy allowing shorts, t-shirts, and trainers as part of its summer work attire under the "Tokyo Cool Biz" initiative. The change aims to cope with extreme heat while curbing energy use, though reviews are divided—some applaud comfort, others raise concerns about fairness and legibility of dress codes.
Don Nelson, a Hall of Fame basketball coach and longtime Mavericks figure, has died at 86. Family statements describe him as beloved husband, father and grandfather. Nelson leaves a legacy as a pioneering coach who popularized fast-paced play and Nellie Ball, influencing teams and players across the league.
Don Nelson, a Hall of Fame coach who revolutionized NBA offense with a fast, versatile game, has died at 86. He led Milwaukee, Dallas and Golden State to extensive success, shaped star careers like Dirk Nowitzki and Steph Curry, and left a lasting mark on the sport.
The Knicks will host the 76ers on Oct. 20 to raise their 2023-24 championship banner, then begin the NBA Cup schedule with a group-stage game against Philadelphia in New York. The league has released a partial schedule, with key Christmas and opening-night matchups revealed and full details due Thursday.
The NBA has found misconduct by the Clippers tied to off‑court income deals for Kawhi Leonard, resulting in five first‑round picks forfeited between 2029 and 2033, a $30 million fine, and suspensions for owner Steve Ballmer and team executives. Leonard has expressed responsibility for lapses and is focusing on the future after the situation. The league notes ongoing compliance monitoring for five years.
Engelbert has announced she is stepping down at the end of 2026 after seven years as the WNBA's first commissioner. The league has seen record growth under her leadership, including a historic CBA, a long-term media deal, and expansion plans, though criticism from players on leadership and responses to protests has persisted.
The Clippers have faced a sweeping NBA punishment including a $30 million fine, five first-round picks forfeited, and a one-year suspension for Ballmer. Ballmer has publicly apologized, stating the team is complying with penalties and focusing on moving forward as Leonard’s trade to Toronto remains on hold pending the investigation.
New ownership has outlined aggressive plans to lift the Lakers’ value to $30 billion within a decade, backed by higher ticketing, media rights and international growth. The sale from the Buss family to Joshua Kushner and Bob Iger has triggered a valuation surge and renewed speculation about the franchise’s long-term health.
EuroLeague shareholder clubs have rejected the NBA’s proposal for a single European league in a meeting in Cernobbio, with plans to convert licenses into franchises and to increase the number of franchises. The discussions come as the NBA eyes a 2027 European launch and large entry fees are reported.
The NFL is urging the Supreme Court to allow states to regulate sports-prediction markets, arguing these contracts are gambling rather than financial swaps. The league cites $1.8 billion in first-weekend activity and calls for safeguards including a 21-year age minimum for bettors, while defending the CFTC’s federal oversight and highlighting integrity concerns.
The Philadelphia 76ers have opened the NBA season with a 106-100 road win over the New York Knicks. LeBron James has joined Philadelphia, becoming the first player to start a 24th season with a new team. Tyrese Maxey led Philadelphia with 28 points; Jaylen Brown added 19 and Joel Embiid posted a double-double. The Sixers’ defense tightened in the second half as they rallied in Madison Square Garden.