“Ant-1!” With a jaw-dropping 103.5 Dunk Score, this play wasn’t just a highlight—it was a statement. Three points earned the hard way, reminding fans why basketball is as much about grit as it is about flair.
Want to relive the moment? See every angle of Ant-man’s latest poster-worthy dunk here.
5 STORIES YOU CAN’T MISS 🏀
January 10, 2025
history & Highlights: From record-breaking starts to clutch performances, this season is delivering unforgettable moments.And let’s not forget that Dunk of the Year contender.
Thursday Roundup: Ja Morant made his much-anticipated return, leading his team to a critical victory. Meanwhile, the Western Conference saw some thrilling wins that shook up the standings.
OKC-NY Rematch: The Thunder are back at Madison Square Garden, facing the Knicks just eight days after their last showdown. Can OKC turn the tables this time?
Paolo’s Return: After missing 34 games, Orlando’s star player is set to make his comeback tonight. Fans are buzzing with anticipation.
NBA All-Star Voting: The second round of fan returns is in, and the race is heating up. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for key All-Star dates.
BUT FIRST … ⏰
Thursday’s scores and Friday’s slate…
Friday’s lineup features seven games, with the spotlight on a high-stakes interconference battle between the Thunder and the Knicks.Catch the action live on NBA TV at 7:30 ET.
Looking ahead, here are the must-watch matchups next week:
- Monday, jan. 13: Grizzlies at Rockets (8 ET,NBA TV)
- Monday,Jan. 13: Spurs at Lakers (10:30 ET, NBA TV)
- Tuesday, Jan. 14: Cavaliers at Pacers (7 ET, TNT/truTV/Max)
- Tuesday, Jan. 14: Nuggets at Mavericks (9:30 ET, TNT/truTV/Max)
- Wednesday, Jan. 15: Knicks at 76ers (7:30 ET, ESPN)
- Wednesday, Jan. 15: heat at lakers (10 ET,ESPN)
- Thursday,Jan. 16: The Rematch | cavaliers at Thunder (7:30 ET,TNT/truTV/Max)
Triple Your All-Star Vote! Today is a “3-for-1 Day” for NBA All-Star voting presented by AT&T. Cast your vote on the NBA App or NBA.com using your NBA ID, and it’ll count three times. Vote now and make your voice heard!
1. HISTORY & HIGHLIGHTS: GARLAND SHINES, EDWARDS SOARS
Darius Garland continues to prove why he’s one of the NBA’s most electrifying players. On Wednesday, he sealed the Cavaliers’ 11th consecutive victory with a clutch performance against the Thunder. The very next night, he was at it again, delivering another game-defining moment.
Cavaliers 132, Raptors 126: With Donovan Mitchell sidelined, garland stepped up in a big way, scoring 40 points and dishing out nine assists. His late-game heroics included a crucial three-pointer with just 40 seconds remaining, extending Cleveland’s lead and securing their 12th straight win. The victory also improved their record to an NBA-best 33-4. | Recap
- Second-Half dominance: Garland exploded for 25 points in the second half, shooting an notable 9-of-12 from the field to help the Cavs overcome a 12-point deficit in the third quarter.
- Clutch Performer: This season, Garland has been nearly unstoppable in clutch moments, shooting 65.5% (19-of-29) in such situations—the best field goal percentage in the league among players with at least 20 attempts.
- All-Around Impact: He also leads the NBA in clutch-time plus-minus (+62) and ranks second in assist-to-turnover ratio (10:1) during critical moments.
- Coach’s Praise: “He carried us,” Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson said after the game. “He single-handedly took over this game.”
- Historic Start: Cleveland’s 33-4 record places them in elite company, joining the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors as the only teams as 2000 to achieve such a start. They are just the seventh team in NBA history to accomplish this feat.
While the cavaliers continue to make history, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves is making waves of his own.
Wolves 104, Magic 89: Edwards put on a show, finishing with 21 points, seven assists, and a highlight-reel dunk that left fans in awe. His all-around performance helped the Timberwolves secure a cozy victory over the Orlando Magic.
Key Takeaways:
- Garland’s Rise: Darius Garland is cementing his status as one of the league’s premier guards, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Cavaliers’ Dominance: Cleveland’s historic start to the season has them positioned as serious title contenders.
- Edwards’ Star Power: Anthony Edwards continues to showcase his athleticism and skill, proving he’s one of the most exciting young players in the NBA.
Final Thoughts: As the NBA season progresses, both Garland and Edwards are proving to be must-watch talents. Whether it’s Garland’s clutch shooting or Edwards’ jaw-dropping athleticism, these players are elevating their teams and captivating fans across the league.
Thursday Night Thrillers: Rockets and Warriors Secure key Wins
Thursday night delivered a slate of high-stakes NBA action, with the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors emerging victorious in tightly contested matchups. The Rockets continued their impressive form, while the Warriors snapped a formidable streak to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Rockets Outlast Grizzlies in Western Conference Showdown
In a battle between two of the West’s top teams,the Houston Rockets edged out the Memphis Grizzlies 119-115. Despite the return of Ja Morant, who scored 27 points after missing five games, the Grizzlies couldn’t contain Houston’s dynamic duo of Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green. Sengun dominated with 32 points and 14 rebounds, while Green added 27 points, including four three-pointers, to secure the win.
- Key Stat: This marks Houston’s third consecutive victory and their sixth straight road win, solidifying their position as the No. 2 seed in the West.
For a full breakdown of the game, check out the official recap.
Warriors Hold Off Pistons in Nail-Biter
Simultaneously occurring, the Golden State Warriors narrowly defeated the Detroit Pistons 107-104, ending Detroit’s five-game winning streak. Cade cunningham put on a show with 32 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals, leading a late-game surge that fell just short. The Warriors’ resilience in the final minutes proved decisive, as they held on to secure the win.
- Notable Performance: Cunningham’s all-around effort wasn’t enough to overcome Golden State’s balanced attack, which included clutch plays down the stretch.
Relive the highlights with the game recap.
Timberwolves Continue Defensive Dominance
In another standout performance, the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Orlando Magic in a defensive battle. Anthony Edwards electrified the crowd with a jaw-dropping dunk, part of a strong showing that helped Minnesota secure its third straight win.
- Defensive Prowess: The Timberwolves held their opponent to 90 points or fewer for the fifth time this season, trailing only the Magic in this category.
- Highlight Reel: Edwards’ dunk earned a Dunk Score of 103.5, ranking among the season’s top plays. See the full list here.
Edwards’ high-flying antics have become a hallmark of his five-year career. relive some of his most electrifying dunks.
Key Takeaways from Thursday’s Action
Thursday’s games underscored the intensity of the NBA season as teams jockey for playoff positioning.The Rockets’ continued rise, the Warriors’ resilience, and the Timberwolves’ defensive grit highlight the depth of talent across the league.As the season progresses, these performances will be crucial in shaping the postseason landscape.
NBA Roundup: Thrilling Comebacks and Stellar Performances Light Up the Court
In a night filled with high-octane basketball, several NBA teams delivered unforgettable performances, showcasing resilience, teamwork, and individual brilliance. From epic comebacks to career milestones, here’s a recap of the action-packed games that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
warriors Showcase Depth in Dominant Victory
The Golden State Warriors demonstrated their offensive firepower with a balanced team effort. Buddy Hield led the charge with 19 points, including five three-pointers, while Steph Curry contributed a well-rounded performance of 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists. Six warriors players scored in double figures, highlighting the team’s depth and versatility.
Mavericks Stage Epic Comeback Without Stars
Despite missing Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, the Dallas Mavericks pulled off a stunning comeback against the Portland Trail Blazers. Trailing by 10 points with just over four minutes remaining, P.J. Washington and Dereck Lively II spearheaded an 18-2 run to seal a 117-111 victory. Washington finished with 23 points and 14 rebounds, while Lively II added 21 points and 16 rebounds. Jaden hardy also shone, scoring a season-high 25 points, including five three-pointers.
Suns’ Big Four Overpower Hawks
The Phoenix Suns snapped a rough 1-5 stretch with a commanding 123-115 win over the Atlanta Hawks. Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant, Grayson allen, and Devin Booker combined for 91 points, overpowering the Hawks’ 72-point first-half explosion.Booker, in particular, dazzled with 20 points and 12 assists, marking his third consecutive game with double-digit assists—a career first.
Heat Exact Revenge on Jazz
Five days after suffering their largest defeat of the season (136-100) against the Utah Jazz, the Miami Heat bounced back with a gritty 97-92 victory. Tyler Herro led the way with 23 points and 5 assists, while the Heat outscored the Jazz 29-22 in the fourth quarter to secure their second straight road win.
thunder-Knicks Rematch Set to Ignite NBA TV
Tonight,basketball fans are in for a treat as the Oklahoma City Thunder and New York Knicks face off in a highly anticipated rematch on NBA TV.The Thunder, fresh off the end of their franchise-record 15-game win streak, will look to bounce back against a resolute Knicks squad. Don’t miss this clash of titans as both teams aim to make a statement.
OKC Thunder’s Historic Run: A Test of Resilience and Dominance
The Oklahoma City Thunder have been on a tear, carving their path through the NBA with a series of statement victories. Their journey to Wednesday’s historic clash was anything but easy, as they faced some of the league’s toughest competition. Let’s dive into how the Thunder have risen to the occasion, proving their mettle against elite teams.
A Week of High-Stakes Basketball
Just seven days ago, the Thunder delivered a stunning performance against the New York Knicks, securing a 117-107 victory. This win not only extended OKC’s winning streak to 14 games but also snapped the Knicks’ impressive nine-game run. It was a game for the history books, marking only the fourth time in NBA history that two teams with win streaks of nine or more games faced off.The fifth such matchup occurred on Wednesday in cleveland, further highlighting the Thunder’s grueling schedule.
Since December 29, OKC has faced a gauntlet of top-tier opponents, including the Memphis Grizzlies, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, and Cleveland Cavaliers—four of the league’s top six teams. They’ve also battled Western Conference Play-In contenders like the Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Clippers. Despite this relentless schedule, the Thunder have lost just once during this stretch—a road game against the league’s top team, marking their first regular-season defeat since December 1.
Friday’s Showdown: thunder vs.Knicks Round Two
The Thunder’s challenging schedule continues this Friday as they prepare to face the Knicks once again. This time, Karl-Anthony Towns and jalen Brunson will be looking to avenge last week’s loss. The game, set to tip off at 7:30 PM ET on NBA TV, promises to be another thrilling chapter in this budding rivalry.
Recapping Last week’s Thriller
in their previous meeting, the Knicks held an eight-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. However, the Thunder flipped the script, outscoring New York 37-19 in the final frame to secure the win. Aaron Wiggins was instrumental in the comeback, scoring 15 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter, including four three-pointers. OKC shot an impressive 6-of-8 from beyond the arc in the final quarter while holding the Knicks to just 1-of-9.
Rebounding also played a crucial role, with the Thunder doubling the Knicks’ total in the fourth quarter, 13-6. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau acknowledged the Thunder’s effort, stating, “There were two or three scramble plays where they got the loose ball, and it converted into 3s. That was probably the biggest thing… It was a hard-fought game, and it’s getting the loose balls and making effort plays.”
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Leadership
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s standout guard, led the charge with a game-high 33 points and seven assists. Reflecting on the victory, SGA praised the Knicks while emphasizing his team’s resilience. “Very high-level team,” he said. “They’re where they are in the league for a reason.They had the better of us most of the night, but we stuck with it… Really good game, really good test for us, and we passed the test.”
Tonight, SGA and the Thunder aim to replicate their success, while the Knicks look to bounce back after snapping a three-game losing streak on Wednesday.
Paolo Banchero: Orlando’s Rising Star
While the Thunder have been making headlines, another young star has been turning heads in Orlando. Paolo Banchero, the 2023 Kia Rookie of the Year, has continued to elevate his game in his second NBA season. After earning an All-Star selection and leading the Magic to their first playoff appearance since 2019-20,banchero is hinting at another leap in Year 3. Through the first week of the season, the 22-year-old has been averaging 29.0 points, 8.8 rebounds,and 5 assists per game,solidifying his status as one of the league’s brightest talents.
What’s Next for the Thunder and the NBA?
As the Thunder continue their quest for dominance, their ability to rise to the occasion against elite competition has been nothing short of impressive. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge and a roster full of young talent, OKC is poised to remain a force in the league.Simultaneously occurring, stars like Paolo Banchero are proving that the future of the NBA is in good hands.
Whether you’re a Thunder fan or a basketball enthusiast, this season has been a testament to the resilience, skill, and determination of these teams. As the games unfold, one thing is certain: the NBA is delivering some of the most exciting basketball in recent memory.
Paolo Banchero has been a beacon of hope for the Orlando Magic this season, but his journey took an unexpected turn just two days after a career-high 50-point performance against the Indiana Pacers on october 28. A torn right oblique abruptly halted his momentum, leaving the team and fans in suspense.
- “I felt it when it happened,” Banchero recalled. “I didn’t know what it was,but I knew it didn’t feel good.I was hoping it wasn’t too bad,but it turned out to be worse than I thought.”
The injury forced banchero to the sidelines indefinitely, a tough blow for a player who had been carrying the team in multiple facets of the game. magic head coach jamahl Mosley didn’t mince words when discussing the setback.
- “It sucks,” Mosley said. “There’s no other way to put it. It’s tough for him, especially after the way he started this season and how he was playing. But he’s resilient. This is another opportunity for him to grow in different ways.”
Since the injury, Banchero has remained an active presence on the bench, mentoring his teammates and dedicating countless hours to rehabilitation. His commitment to recovery has been unwavering, and his efforts are finally paying off.
- “The rehab he’s put in,the time he’s invested,and the mental focus he’s maintained have been incredible,” Mosley noted. “He’s stayed the course, knowing that his return was inevitable.”
That return could come as soon as tonight, as Banchero participated in a full practice session yesterday and expressed feeling “really good” ahead of Orlando’s matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks at 7 PM ET.
Banchero’s Impact: His comeback couldn’t come at a better time for the Magic, who have been grappling with injuries to key players like Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs. Banchero’s return promises to reignite Orlando’s offense while maintaining their defensive prowess.
- Offensive Spark: In the five games Banchero played this season, the Magic averaged 112.2 points per game. Without him,that number plummeted to 103.7 ppg, the lowest in the league.
- Playmaking Edge: With Banchero on the floor, Orlando ranked 17th in assists (25.6 apg). In his absence, they dropped to 26th (23.5 apg).
- Defensive Consistency: The Magic’s defense, which allows just 103.2 points per game, remains a cornerstone of their identity. Their defensive rating (106.5) has barely shifted since Banchero’s injury (106.9).
Despite the challenges, the Magic have managed to hold onto fourth place in the Eastern Conference. With Banchero back in action, they’re poised to make a push for an even higher standing.
Looking Ahead: Tonight’s game against the Bucks is just one of seven exciting matchups on the NBA schedule.Fans can catch all the action live on NBA League Pass.
NBA All-star 2025 Voting heats Up: Key Updates and What’s Next
The race to crown the 2025 NBA All-Star starters is in full swing, with just 10 days left for fans to cast their votes. The second round of fan voting results was recently unveiled, offering a glimpse into which players are leading the charge. Fans can vote via the NBA app or NBA.com using their NBA ID, and the stakes are higher than ever as the competition intensifies.
Who’s Leading the Pack?
For the second consecutive week, Giannis Antetokounmpo (East frontcourt) and Nikola Jokić (West frontcourt) are dominating their respective conferences. Joining them at the top are Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (west guard) and LaMelo Ball (East guard), who continue to shine in their position groups.
Rising Stars Making Moves
Steph Curry has surged into second place among west guards,showcasing his enduring popularity and skill. Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama has climbed to fourth in the West frontcourt rankings, proving that the rookie sensation is already making waves. In the East, Cleveland Cavaliers’ Evan Mobley and Darius Garland are gaining momentum, reflecting their strong performances this season.
Triple Your Vote on Friday
Fans play a pivotal role in determining the All-Star starters, accounting for 50% of the vote. The remaining 50% is split evenly between current NBA players and a media panel.This Friday is a special “3-for-1 Day,” where every vote cast will count three times. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard—cast your vote now.
Key Dates to Remember
The third round of fan voting results will be released on Thursday, January 16, with voting concluding on January 20. The official All-Star Game starters will be announced on January 23 during a special TNT broadcast.
NBA All-Star 2025: Save the Dates
The 2025 NBA All-star Weekend will take place in the San Francisco Bay Area from February 14-16.Here are some must-watch events to mark on your calendar:
- Friday, February 14: Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game (7 PM ET, ESPN)
- Friday, February 14: Castrol Rising Stars (9 PM ET, TNT/TruTV)
As the excitement builds, fans are encouraged to stay engaged and participate in shaping the all-Star lineup. With so much talent on display, this year’s event promises to be unforgettable.
NBA All-Star Weekend 2025: A Spectacle of Skill and Showmanship
Basketball fans, mark your calendars! The NBA All-Star Weekend 2025 is set to dazzle audiences with a thrilling lineup of events. From jaw-dropping dunks to precision three-pointers, this year’s festivities promise to be unforgettable. here’s everything you need to know about the schedule and what to expect.
State Farm All-Star Saturday Night: A Night of Thrills
On Saturday, February 15, the action kicks off with the State Farm All-Star Saturday Night. This star-studded evening features three marquee events: the Kia Skills Challenge, the Starry 3-Point Contest, and the AT&T Slam Dunk. Tune in at 8 PM ET on TNT or TruTV to witness the league’s top players showcase their agility,accuracy,and aerial artistry.
The Kia Skills Challenge tests players’ versatility as they navigate a timed obstacle course, combining dribbling, passing, and shooting. Simultaneously occurring, the Starry 3-Point Contest pits sharpshooters against each other in a battle of long-range precision. And, of course, the AT&T Slam Dunk never fails to deliver gravity-defying highlights that leave fans in awe.
74th NBA All-Star Game: The Main Event
The excitement continues on Sunday, February 16, with the 74th NBA All-Star Game. Tip-off is at 8 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast live on TNT and TruTV. This annual showcase brings together the league’s brightest stars for a high-octane exhibition of teamwork, talent, and sheer entertainment.
Whether you’re rooting for the Eastern Conference or the Western Conference, the All-Star Game is a festivity of basketball at its finest. Expect dazzling plays,highlight-reel moments,and a display of camaraderie among the sport’s elite.
Why You Can’t Miss It
NBA All-Star Weekend is more than just a series of games—it’s a cultural phenomenon. It’s a chance to see your favorite players in a new light, competing in events that highlight their unique skills. From the precision of the 3-Point Contest to the creativity of the Slam Dunk, every moment is designed to captivate.
So, grab your snacks, gather your friends, and get ready for a weekend of non-stop basketball action.Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend is an event you won’t want to miss.
“The NBA All-Star Weekend is where the game’s best come to shine.It’s a celebration of basketball and the incredible talent that defines the league.”
How to watch
All events will be broadcast live on TNT and TruTV, with coverage starting at 8 PM ET on both days.If you can’t catch the action live, be sure to check out highlights and recaps online to stay in the loop.
Don’t miss out on the excitement of the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend. It’s a showcase of skill, showmanship, and the sheer love of the game. See you there!
