American basketball legend and civil rights pioneer
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.
Bob Pettit, the NBA’s first MVP and one of the game’s greatest scorers and rebounders, has died at 93. The Hall of Fame member led the Hawks to the 1958 title, earned MVP honors twice, and left a lasting legacy on the forward position.
Jalen Brunson has hosted Saturday Night Live, becoming the first Knicks player to host since 2007. The episode opened the Knicks’ season after their title victory, featuring questions from Brunson’s teammates in the monologue and a series of sketches.
The Knicks have secured their first victory of the season, overpowering the Pistons 111-97. Brunson breaks out of his shooting slump with 23 points; Towns and Bridges contribute key plays. The team had trailed early but used a big third quarter to surge ahead, ending a rough opening stretch and signaling potential momentum for New York.