The NBA's 65-game eligibility requirement for end-of-season awards has become a divisive issue.  ...

<p>The NBA's 65-game eligibility requirement for end-of-season awards has become a divisive issue. </p><p>Critics argue the rule has failed to effectively reduce load-management absences. The National Basketball Players Association recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3507166" href="https://thescore.com/news/3507166">pointed</a> to Cade Cunningham's award ineligibility after a breakout season as evidence of the policy's shortcomings. However, NBA commissioner Adam Silver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3507900" href="https://thescore.com/news/3507900">insists</a> the cutoff "is working."</p><p>To qualify for Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player of the Year, or All-NBA and All-Defensive teams, players must record at least 20 minutes in 65 games. Anyone who suffers a season-ending injury is required to feature in 62 contests.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ja Morant (20 games), Anthony Davis (20), Domantas Sabonis (19), Jayson Tatum (16), and Trae Young (16) are among the players who appeared in 20 or fewer games.</p><p>With the regular season complete, here's a list of marquee players who might have been eligible for individual honors if not for the games-played criteria:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NBA stars ineligible for end-of-season awards 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Hv3Oh" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Hv3Oh/14/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1098" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>* Honors represents the number of times the player made an All-Star team, All-NBA team, All-Rookie team, All-Defensive team, or won any of the NBA's individual awards (MVP, DPOY, ROY, etc.).</em></p><p><em>⁺ Doncic will reportedly appeal his ineligibility using the Extraordinary Circumstances Challenge after missing two games to travel to Slovenia for the birth of his daughter.</em></p>

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Which NBA stars missed 65-game cutoff for end-of-season awards?

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WNBA mock draft: March Madness standouts vie for top spot

Well, that was a basketball game. It was not a good basketball game - in fact, it was probably on...

<p>Well, that was a basketball game. It was not a good basketball game - in fact, it was probably one of the worst basketball games in NBA history.</p><p>The Utah Jazz's 147-101 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday in Salt Lake City was one for the record books, and for all the wrong reasons. Here's a look at eight absurd numbers from a truly dreadful affair:</p><p><strong>2:</strong> Jazz guards John Konchar and Bez Mbeng became the first teammates in NBA history to record triple-doubles off the bench in the same game. It was Konchar's second straight triple-double.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>3:</strong> Grizzlies guard Jahmai Mashack also notched a triple-double, making Friday's contest the first time in league history where three players recorded triple-doubles. But wait, it gets better.</p><p><strong>6:</strong> The Grizzlies used six players in the game: Dariq Whitehead, Toby Okani, Lucas Williamson, Adama Bal, and Maschack started, and Rayan Rupert came off the bench. That's three two-way players, and another trio on 10-day contracts.</p><p><strong>7:</strong> The Jazz rolled out a comparatively deeper lineup, with Konchar and Bez joining starters Blake Hinson, Cody Williams, Oscar Tshiebwe, Kennedy Chandler, and Ace Bailey.</p><p><strong>8:</strong> The 46-point margin of defeat was only the eighth-largest of the 2025-26 campaign, nine short of the 55-point loss the Jazz suffered against the Charlotte Hornets on Jan. 10. Congratulations?</p><p><strong>10:</strong> Mashack also recorded 10 turnovers, tying for the most in the league this season. Does that count as a quadruple-double? Mashack, who is 6-foot-4, was listed as a center on official lineups.</p><p><strong>21%:</strong> The Grizzlies shot 11-of-52 from deep for a 21% shooting percentage. Rupert was the biggest offender courtesy of a 1-for-11 mark, slightly bettering Williamson (2-of-13) and Whitehead (3-of-10). Yikes.</p><p><strong>Minus-46: </strong>Mashack's minus-46 is the worst plus-minus in a triple-double performance in NBA history, surpassing Jusuf Nurkic's minus-30, which he also recorded as a member of the Jazz on Jan. 24 vs. the Heat.</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - APRIL 10: Lucas Williamson #55 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts after being charged with a foul during the first half of their game against against the Utah Jazz at the Delta Center on April 10, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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FC Cincinnati have started preliminary discussions with representatives for Brazilian star Neymar...

<p>FC Cincinnati have started preliminary discussions with representatives for Brazilian star Neymar about a potential move to MLS, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7184287/2026/04/09/neymar-fc-cincinnati-mls-preliminary-talks-transfer/">The Athletic's Tom Bogert and Paul Tenorio</a>.</p><p>Talks surrounding the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain attacker are at an early stage as the club determines Neymar's interest, Bogert and Tenorio added. Cincinnati is also having internal discussions about a potential move for the 34-year-old and if it makes sense for the club.</p><p>Cincinnati doesn't currently have a vacant Designated Player spot, with Kevin Denkey, Miles Robinson, and Evander claiming the three slots.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Neymar, who is currently playing in Brazil with his boyhood club, Santos, is under contract with the three-time Copa Libertadores winners through 2026.</p><p>The Chicago Fire had negotiations with Neymar when he departed Saudi side Al Hilal in 2025 before he inked a short-term deal with Santos. Neymar experienced a return to form and helped Santos avoid relegation to the second tier of Brazilian football. He then extended his stay in Brazil by another season with fresh terms.</p><p>Neymar has three goals and a pair of assists in four appearances this season as he tries to earn a spot in Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup squad. "Obviously I’m upset and sad not to have been selected," Neymar told <a href="https://www.espn.com.br/futebol/selecao-brasileira/artigo/_/id/16447185/neymar-resposta-sobre-ficar-fora-convocacao-selecao-brasileira-manda-recado-copa-do-mundo">ESPN Brazil</a> after he wasn't included for recent friendlies against France and Croatia.</p><p>Neymar is Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, two more than Pele, and his 128 caps are second only to iconic full-back Cafu (142).</p>

SSANTOS, BRAZIL - FEBRUARY 26: Neymar Jr of Santos celebrates after scoring the second goal of his team during a Brasileirao 2026 match between Santos and Vasco da Gama at Estadio Urbano Caldeira on February 26, 2026 in Santos, Brazil.

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Providence has landed a commitment from Westchester Knicks guard Dink Pate, his agent Sam Permut ...

<p>Providence has landed a commitment from Westchester Knicks guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171723" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171723">Dink Pate</a>, his agent Sam Permut told <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/2042407464952365313?s=20">ESPN's Jeff Borzello</a>.</p><p>Pate turned down two-way and 10-day contracts while in the G League to maintain his college eligibility, Borzello adds. </p><p>He was a five-star recruit in the class of 2023 before joining the G League Ignite to become the youngest known professional basketball player in U.S. history. He also played with the Mexico City Capitanes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 20-year-old entered the 2025 NBA Draft, but went undrafted. He signed with the New York Knicks, ultimately joining the team's G League affiliate in Westchester. Pate represented the G League in the Rising Stars game at the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.</p><p>Pate also had a Zoom call with Kentucky head coach Mark Pope, according to <a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/kentucky-conducts-zoom-call-with-g-league-star-dink-pate/">KSR's Jack Pilgrim</a>.</p><p>Pate's recruitment marks the second big addition of the day for Bryan Hodgson and the Friars after San Diego State star Miles Byrd committed to Providence earlier Thursday.</p><p>Hodgson was named Kim English's successor at Providence in March after guiding South Florida to a 25-9 record in his one season with the Bulls.</p>

WHITE PLAINS, NY - FEBRUARY 21: Dink Pate #1 of the Washington Wizards dribbles the ball during the game against the Cleveland Charge on February 21, 2026 at Westchester County Center in White Plains, NY. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - AUGUST 30: A view of the WNBA logo before the game between the Seattle Storm and the New York Liberty at Climate Pledge Arena on August 30, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

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2026 WNBA expansion draft results

Iowa State star Audi Crooks is seeking a new home.  The AP second-team All-American center is ent...

<p>Iowa State star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/112035" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/112035">Audi Crooks</a> is seeking a new home.</p><p>The AP second-team All-American center is entering the transfer portal, Crooks announced Thursday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWocwkLkRa0/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWocwkLkRa0/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Crooks, 21, was the nation's second-leading scorer this season, averaging 25.8 points on 64.9% shooting across 31 appearances for the Cyclones. Those are impressive returns considering she played 28.8 minutes per game, six minutes fewer than Vanderbilt's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163094" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163094">Makayla Blakes</a>, who led Division I in scoring with 27 points per game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 6-foot-3 junior has spent the last three seasons at Iowa State, earning an All-Big 12 first-team nod on three occasions. She holds the records for most points in a game (47) and points in a season (820) in program history.</p><p>Crooks has one year of eligibility remaining.</p><p>She joins fellow starters Addy Brown, Mackenzie Hare, and Jada Williams in entering the portal. </p><p>Iowa State went 22-10 in 2025-26 and were eliminated in the first round of the NCAA Tournament by Syracuse.</p>

MANHATTAN, KS - MARCH 01: Audi Crooks #55 of the Iowa State Cyclones reacts after scoring a basket against the Kansas State Wildcats in the second half at Bramlage Coliseum on March 1, 2026 in Manhattan, Kansas.

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Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic became just the second player in NBA history to score 600 or...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> became just the second player in NBA history to score 600 or more points in the month of March following a 42-point display in Tuesday's 127-113 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>Doncic joins an exclusive club with the March milestone, as six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan is the only other player to accomplish the feat, doing so in 1987.</p><p>"I think Luka has had as good of a month as anybody that I can remember in the modern NBA, at least since I've been part of it," Lakers head coach JJ Redick told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48366595/luka-totals-600-points-march-lakers-go-15-2">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tuesday's outing was Doncic's third straight performance with 40-plus points, making him the 10th player in league history to register 600 or more points in a month. He also passed Lakers icon Kobe Bryant for the franchise record for most points in a month.</p><p>The victory capped a 15-2 March for the Lakers, who sit third in the Western Conference, 10 games back of first-place Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>"If you don't win, it doesn't really mean anything," Doncic told McMenamin. "So the run we've been on, it means a lot."</p><p>Although reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains the favorite to claim the distinction again, Doncic's late-season charge has thrust the six-time All-Star into the award's discussion.</p><p>"I never did that (in the past)," Doncic said about advocating for the award. "I'm not the one voting. ... But I think I've been playing pretty good. We've been winning. So that's it. That's all I got to say."</p><p>Doncic leads the NBA in scoring (33.8) while ranking third in assists (8.3) and sixth in steals (1.7), bettering Gilgeous-Alexander in each category. He's also averaging 7.8 rebounds per game to Gilgeous-Alexander's 4.4.</p><p>To his credit, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 30.7 points on 56.8% shooting and 6.6 assists in March as the Thunder went 14-1 to maintain the league's best record.</p><p>Two of Los Angeles' six remaining regular-season games are against the Thunder, including Thursday's meeting in Oklahoma City.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 31: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers makes a slam dunk against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second half at Crypto.com Arena on March 31, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

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Candace Parker, Amar'e Stoudemire, Elena Delle Donne, and Doc Rivers are among those set to be in...

<p>Candace Parker, Amar'e Stoudemire, Elena Delle Donne, and Doc Rivers are among those set to be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame class of 2026, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2039037531417612295?s=20">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Gonzaga head coach Mark Few will also be inducted, sources told <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/2039050799678964157?s=20">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>.</p><p>Parker was the top pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft after a decorated collegiate career at Tennessee. She spent most of her career with the Los Angeles Sparks, winning WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2008 and claiming Finals MVP honors during the team's 2016 title run.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>She led the WNBA in rebounding on three occasions and blocks twice. Parker was also a seven-time All-Star and 10-time All-WNBA selection.</p><p>Stoudemire is a six-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection. He earned the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2003 while with the Phoenix Suns. Stoudemire also played with the New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, and Miami Heat.</p><p>Two-time WNBA MVP Delle Donne retired in 2025 after a lengthy career with the Chicago Sky and Washington Mystics. A seven-time All-Star and a four-time All-WNBA first-team selection, she led the Mystics to their first WNBA title in 2019. Donne was named WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2013.</p><p>Rivers, who has been the Milwaukee Bucks' head coach since 2024, enjoyed a 14-year playing career with the Atlanta Hawks, San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Clippers, and Knicks. He won a championship as the Boston Celtics' coach in 2008 and was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2000 while in charge of the Orlando Magic. Rivers also coached the Philadelphia 76ers and Clippers.</p><p>Few has been at the helm of Gonzaga since 1999 and has guided the Bulldogs to two NCAA title games, amassing a 773-156 record while earning AP Coach of the Year honors in 2017.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 29: Candace Parker talks to the media before the game between the Chicago Sky and Los Angeles Sparks on June 29, 2025 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Parker, Stoudemire, Delle Donne, Rivers highlight HOF class of 2026

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a UCL...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a UCL sprain in his left elbow, the team announced.</p><p>Morant has missed the last 29 games and will receive a platelet-rich plasma injection as part of his injury recovery.</p><p>The 26-year-old averaged 19.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 8.1 assists on 41% shooting in 20 games this season, the second-fewest appearances he's made since his Rookie of the Year-winning campaign in 2019-20. He only appeared in nine games in 2023-24 due to a 25-game suspension and season-ending right shoulder surgery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The team also announced that forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45655" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45655">Brandon Clarke</a> would not return this season with a right calf strain. Clarke has appeared in just two contests in 2025-26.</p><p>Second-year center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121683" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121683">Zach Edey</a> also underwent a procedure on his left elbow and is expected to make a full recovery for 2026-27. Edey has made 11 appearances for Memphis this season.</p><p>The 24-47 Grizzlies are all but mathematically eliminated from postseason contention and sit nine-and-a-half games back of the Golden State Warriors for 10th place and the final play-in position. Memphis hosts the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday.</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - JANUARY 21: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on January 21, 2026 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Grizzlies' Morant out for rest of season due to elbow injury

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant passed Michael Jordan for fifth on the NBA's all-time regula...

<p>Houston Rockets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> passed Michael Jordan for fifth on the NBA's all-time regular-season scoring leaderboard in Saturday's 123-122 win over the Miami Heat.</p><p>Durant, a 16-time All-Star, vaulted Jordan with a three from the corner off a pass from Reed Sheppard. The field goal, his ninth of the contest and fifth from deep, helped Houston extend a late fourth-quarter lead over the Heat.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kevin Durant corner 3, assisted by Reed Sheppard! <a href="https://t.co/Q3XXChqg4d">pic.twitter.com/Q3XXChqg4d</a></p>— Rockets Clips (@Rockets_Clips) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockets_Clips/status/2035540165402165298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Games</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>LeBron James*</td>
<td>43241</td>
<td>1612</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>38387</td>
<td>1560</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Karl Malone</td>
<td>36928</td>
<td>1476</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Kobe Bryant</td>
<td>33643</td>
<td>1346</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Kevin Durant*</td>
<td>32294</td>
<td>1190</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Michael Jordan</td>
<td>32292</td>
<td>1072</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Dirk Nowitzki</td>
<td>31560</td>
<td>1522</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td>31419</td>
<td>1045</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>James Harden*</td>
<td>29160</td>
<td>1212</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Shaquille O'Neal</td>
<td>28596</td>
<td>1207</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Active</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Rockets held on to win thanks to an <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110271" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110271">Amen Thompson</a> tip-in at the buzzer off Durant's missed attempt. The play saved Ime Udoka's squad from what would have been a painful collapse on Durant's historic night. Houston held an eight-point lead with 3:25 to play, but the Heat stormed back with a 13-4 run to take the lead with five seconds left, setting the stage for Thompson's winner.</p><p>"It is pretty sweet to be in the same category with the greats," Durant <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/2035568511385239571">said</a> after the win.</p><p>"A lot of these guys have inspired me to come out here and work on my game as much as I can and contribute to a team in a positive way. ... MJ is in a world of his own. He's in a planet, a galaxy, of his own as somebody that I look up to, respect, and who basically shaped the game for me."</p><p>Durant surpassed both Dirk Nowitzki and Wilt Chamberlain on the all-time scoring list earlier in the season. He also climbed to 10th place in all-time 3-pointers made during the 2025-26 campaign, overtaking Vince Carter.</p><p>The 37-year-old is in his 18th NBA season and playing for his fifth different franchise. A four-time scoring champion (2010-12, 2014), Durant missed the entire 2019-20 campaign after rupturing his Achilles tendon in Game 5 of the 2019 NBA Finals.</p><p>Durant, who joined the Rockets from the Phoenix Suns as part of an NBA-record seven-team blockbuster trade, leads the team with 25.7 points per game on 51.7% shooting heading into Saturday.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 21: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets looks on during the game between the Miami Heat and the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on March 21, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

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Durant passes Jordan for 5th on NBA's all-time scoring list

Los Angeles Lakers icon LeBron James added another record to his long list of NBA accolades.  Jam...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> added another record to his long list of NBA accolades.</p><p>James surpassed former Boston Celtics center Robert Parish for most regular-season games played in NBA history in Saturday's game against the Orlando Magic.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Games</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>1612</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Robert Parish</td>
<td>1611</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>1560</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Vince Carter</td>
<td>1541</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Dirk Nowitzki</td>
<td>1522</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>John Stockton</td>
<td>1504</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Karl Malone</td>
<td>1476</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Kevin Garnett</td>
<td>1462</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Kevin Willis</td>
<td>1424</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Jason Terry</td>
<td>1410</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Lakers star marked the occasion with an emphatic breakaway slam 40 seconds in for his first bucket of the evening.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MONSTER dunk from LeBron James to start off his historic 1,612th regular season game 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/ygF7TTjwO3">pic.twitter.com/ygF7TTjwO3</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2035496210295861506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>James, who's participating in his 23rd campaign, established an NBA record for seasons played earlier in the year, surpassing Vince Carter.</p><p>The 41-year-old is also the league's all-time leading scorer, a mark he set in 2023. He became the first player in NBA history to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3484241" href="https://thescore.com/news/3484241">reach</a> the regular-season 43,000-point milestone in February. James also <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">set</a> the record for career field goals made on March 4.</p><p>James ranks fourth all time in assists and sixth in steals. He's been selected for the All-Star Game a record 22 times and holds the mark for most All-NBA selections at 21. His 21-year All-NBA streak will end this season after he failed to meet the league's 65-game requirement for eligibility for individual honors. James missed the first 14 games of the 2025-26 season due to sciatica.</p>

ORLANDO, FL - MARCH 21: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers dunks the ball during the game against the Orlando Magic on March 21, 2026 at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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LeBron sets NBA record for regular-season games played

Luka Doncic scored 60 points on 18-of-30 shooting as the Los Angeles Lakers topped the Miami Heat...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> scored 60 points on 18-of-30 shooting as the Los Angeles Lakers topped the Miami Heat 134-126 to claim their eighth straight victory.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 LUKA JUST DROPPED 60 POINTS 🚨<br><br>🪄 60 PTS<br>🪄 7 REB<br>🪄 5 STL<br>🪄 9 3PM<br><br>It's the first 60-PT game for a Lakers player since Kobe Bryant scored 60 PTS in his final NBA game on April 13, 2016 vs the Jazz. <a href="https://t.co/6lf8h82phH">pic.twitter.com/6lf8h82phH</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2034827285727998225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Doncic's 60 points match the second-highest scoring game of his career, behind only his 73-point performance against the Atlanta Hawks in 2024 as a member of the Dallas Mavericks.</p><p>He's now amassed 100 total points in back-to-back nights, following his 40-point outing in Wednesday's win over the Houston Rockets. The production marked Doncic's 39th game with at least 30 points this season, the most by a Laker in a campaign in the last 20 years.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"His teammates are enjoying it just as much as him right now. ... This is a special run he's on," Lakers head coach JJ Redick told <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2034825122981306790?s=20">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a> after the game.</p><p>"You see everybody celebrating on the bench, it's like, it shows that we care a lot about each other," Doncic told <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2034837534686253130?s=20">McMenamin</a>. "And that's what great teams do. Just makes my heart happy seeing them celebrate my 60-point game."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> also had a stellar performance, recording 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists for his second triple-double of the season - the 124th of his career. With the contest, James made his 1,611th career regular-season appearance, tying Boston Celtics icon Robert Parish for the NBA record.</p><p>"(LeBron's) a psycho. ... In the same way that Luka willed it for us, LeBron willed it for us tonight," Redick told <a href="https://x.com/LakersReporter/status/2034826473069056032?s=20">Spectrum SportsNet's Mike Trudell</a>.</p><p>The Lakers are now 10 games back of the Oklahoma City Thunder for the top spot in the Western Conference and have won 11 of 12 contests since a three-game skid in late February.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 19: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after scoring a three-pointer against the Miami Heat during the third quarter at Kaseya Center on March 19, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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Luka torches Heat for 60 points as Lakers win 8th straight

Los Angeles Lakers All-Star LeBron James isn't part of a group bidding for an NBA expansion franc...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> isn't part of a group bidding for an NBA expansion franchise in Las Vegas.</p><p>"No, I'm not. Not at all," James told <a href="https://x.com/BannedMacMahon/status/2034488533281382726?s=20">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a> following Wednesday's 124-116 victory over the Houston Rockets.</p><p>James' assertion comes hours after a report suggested his chances of becoming a part-owner of a Las Vegas franchise were diminishing, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7129770/2026/03/18/lebron-james-nba-expansion-ownership-vegas-seattle-bid/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Joe Vardon and Mike Vorkunov</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>James has publicly expressed interest in owning a team in Las Vegas as early as four years ago. However, the possibility now seems less likely, as Fenway Sports Group reportedly refuses to pay the expansion fees, which could reach $8 billion.</p><p>FSG and James have been business partners since 2011. The group also owns the Boston Red Sox and reigning Premier League champions Liverpool. FSG was expected to be James' primary financial backer in the pursuit of an expansion team, Vardon and Vorkunov add.</p><p>"With Fenway no longer pursuing NBA ownership, it is less likely that LeBron will pursue a team," a source close to James told The Athletic.</p><p>James' net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion by Forbes. The 41-year-old would need to retire from the NBA before joining an ownership group, and he's currently undecided about whether he'll play next season. The NBA is targeting fall 2028 for the launch of the two expansion teams, pending league approval, with Las Vegas and Seattle the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3501169" href="https://thescore.com/news/3501169">presumed</a> favorites to land the franchises.</p><p>"Why do I want to own a team? I think it'll be cool. I'll stay part of the game and still be able to put people in positions of power," James told The Athletic in 2017. "I've always loved that, putting people in a position of power to feel like they can make a change and make things happen."</p><p>James doubled down on those comments in 2022 on his show "The Shop," saying, "I want a team in Vegas. I want the team in Vegas."</p><p>FSG was founded by Red Sox owner John Henry. RedBird Capital purchased a share of the group in 2021 and valued the company at $7.35 billion. James owns a 1% stake in FSG.</p><p>The NBA's board of governors will reportedly vote on whether to explore adding expansion franchises in Las Vegas and Seattle during meetings scheduled for March 24-25. Approval would require support from 23 of the league's 30 governors.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during a game against the Dallas Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena on February 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

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LeBron not part of group bidding for Las Vegas expansion franchise

Sacramento Kings guard Russell Westbrook moved into fifth place on the NBA's all-time assists lea...

<p>Sacramento Kings guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> moved into fifth place on the NBA's all-time assists leaderboard during Tuesday's 132-104 defeat against the San Antonio Spurs.</p><p>Westbrook entered the game in seventh position, just one assist behind Mark Jackson. With his second and third assists of the night, the 37-year-old surpassed both Jackson and Hall of Famer Steve Nash on the all-time list.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">RUSS PASSES STEVE NASH 👏<br><br>With this assist, Russell Westbrook passes Steve Nash for 5th on the all-time ASSISTS list! <a href="https://t.co/CWL6UyvG0T">pic.twitter.com/CWL6UyvG0T</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2034101844738224517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Assists</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>John Stockton</td>
<td>15806</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Chris Paul</td>
<td>12552</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Jason Kidd</td>
<td>12091</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>11909</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Russell Westbrook</td>
<td>10343</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Steve Nash</td>
<td>10335</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Mark Jackson</td>
<td>10334</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Magic Johnson</td>
<td>10141</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Oscar Robertson</td>
<td>9887</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Isiah Thomas</td>
<td>9061</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Westbrook holds the NBA mark for career triple-doubles with 209, and his 42 triple-doubles during his MVP-winning 2016-17 campaign are unmatched. He's also one of three players in league history to average a triple-double over a season, joining Oscar Robertson and Nikola Jokic.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The nine-time All-Star entered Tuesday's game as the NBA career record-holder for rebounds by a guard with 9,021 and ranked 14th on the league's all-time scoring list with 27,160 points.</p><p>Westbrook is in his 18th season and first with Sacramento after signing a one-year contract in the summer. The Kings are Westbrook's seventh team.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - MARCH 10: Russell Westbrook #18 of the Sacramento Kings looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers on March 10, 2026 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Westbrook vaults Nash, Jackson for 5th on all-time assists list

Los Angeles Lakers icon LeBron James was effusive in his praise for teammate Luka Doncic after th...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> was effusive in his praise for teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> after the guard nailed the game-winning bucket in Saturday's thrilling 127-125 overtime victory over the Denver Nuggets.</p><p>"Just a big-time shot by a f---ing generational player," James told reporters in a video shared by <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2033045654797418554?s=20">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. "We wanted the last shot. We wanted to put the ball in our guy's hands."</p><p>Doncic buried the dramatic fadeaway jumper over Nuggets forward Spencer Jones with seconds left in the overtime frame to secure the Lakers' fifth straight victory and eighth win in nine games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">LUKA. BALLGAME.<br><br>LUKA DONCIC WINS IT IN THE CLUTCH FOR THE LAKERS 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/yIXlJGvbnN">pic.twitter.com/yIXlJGvbnN</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/2033022796146643189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It's going to be just the first of many game winners like that for him in a Lakers uniform," James added.</p><p>Doncic wasn't the only Laker who contributed in the clutch after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> intentionally missed a free throw with 5.2 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Reaves collected the rebound and drained a nine-footer with 1.9 seconds left on the clock to tie the game at 118-118 and force an extra frame.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">AUSTIN REAVES PERFECT MISS TO SEND NUGGETS-LAKERS TO OT!!<br><br>Get to ABC now! 🍿 <a href="https://t.co/J9EH1MngY6">pic.twitter.com/J9EH1MngY6</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/2033019158519030148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I mean, I knew I was going to miss," Reaves told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48211868/lakers-reaves-doncic-deliver-late-game-magic-ot-thriller">McMenamin</a>. "I wasn't going to give the ball an opportunity to go in. Some people shoot it high, and they end up making it on accident. But I don't think my ball ever got over 10 feet."</p><p>Reaves finished with 32 points on 12-of-21 shooting to record 30 or more points for the third straight game. Doncic chipped in with 30 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists for his eighth triple-double of the season on the heels of his first 50-point game in a Lakers uniform.</p><p>"I felt like it was the best atmosphere since I'm a Laker … I had goosebumps," Doncic told reporters, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2033065509214892479?s=20">McMenamin</a>.</p><p>Los Angeles vaulted the Houston Rockets for third place in the West with the victory, 10 games back of the conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 14, 2026: Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) react with Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) after Doncic scored the game winning basket in overtime against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on March 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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LeBron hails 'f---ing generational player' Doncic after game winner

Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown lamented the rise of "foul-baiting" in the NBA and the league...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Boston Celtics</a> forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> lamented the rise of "foul-baiting" in the NBA and the league's willingness to reward it following Thursday's 104-102 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>"I don't know, maybe it all works in the end, but I just don't foul-bait," Brown told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48192061/celts-brown-calls-foul-baiting-says-nba-rewards-flopping">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>. "I'm not looking to flop or anything like that, but it's almost like you got to. ... Because there's a couple of plays in the fourth quarter where I felt like I drove strong, went up strong, and I didn't get the benefit of the doubt.</p><p>"But maybe if I would have flopped, maybe I would have been able to sell that call. And those decide games."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Brown recorded 34 points on 10-of-25 shooting and attempted 14 free throws, his third-highest total this season, with seven of those coming in the fourth quarter.</p><p>The five-time All-Star's remarks are the first time he's spoken with reporters since being ejected in the second quarter of Tuesday's road defeat to the San Antonio Spurs. Brown received two technical fouls - an automatic ejection - for arguing a no-call on Spurs guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121685" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121685">Stephon Castle</a>.</p><p>"We commend players for playing the game the right way, but we give the benefit to those who necessarily are trying to manipulate the game into their advantage," Brown added. "I just don't think it's basketball. Let's just play basketball. All the foul-baiting, I think it's whatever for me."</p><p>Although Brown didn't mention any specific players, the timing of his comments suggest that he's taken issue with the play of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai-Gilgeous Alexander</a>, whom critics say often accentuates contact to draw fouls.</p><p>The reigning MVP, who's third in the NBA in free-throw attempts per game behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> with 9.2, extended his 20-point streak to 127 games against the Celtics, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain's long-standing record. Gilgeous-Alexander recorded 35 points, six rebounds, and nine assists and went 7-of-8 from the line. He scored 14 points in the fourth quarter but didn't attempt a free throw in the final frame.</p><p>"It's one thing to get fouled," Brown said, "but it's like, when you're not even trying to score when you're driving and flailing your body into (a defender) just to make it look like you're getting fouled. I think that's the part where it's like, all right, come on.</p><p>"But I mean, that's where our league is at. That's where the NBA is at. So it's like, get down or lay down. So, maybe I need to flop a little bit more."</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 30: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics reacts during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on November 30, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Celtics defeated the Cavaliers 117-115.

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Celtics' Brown claims NBA rewards 'foul-baiting' after loss to Thunder

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander now sits atop a prestigious list of some of t...

<p>Oklahoma City Thunder guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> now sits atop a prestigious list of some of the best players in the NBA history.</p><p>The reigning MVP broke Wilt Chamberlain's NBA record for consecutive games of 20 or more points in Thursday's visit from the Boston Celtics, hitting a long two over guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121671" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121671">Baylor Scheierman</a> with the shot clock winding down in the third quarter.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">SGA HAS PASSED WILT FOR THE LONGEST 20+ POINT STREAK IN NBA HISTORY 🚨<br><br>Shai: 127<br>Wilt: 126 <a href="https://t.co/Fftlo3ISrY">pic.twitter.com/Fftlo3ISrY</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2032292822011830622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Gilgeous-Alexander has now recorded 20-plus points in 127 straight games dating back to Nov. 1, 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Games</th>
<th>Start</th>
<th>End</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td>127</td>
<td>2024 - Nov. 1</td>
<td>Active</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td>126</td>
<td>1961 - Oct. 18</td>
<td>1963 - Jan. 19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td>92</td>
<td>1963 - Feb. 26</td>
<td>1964 - March 18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Oscar Robertson</td>
<td>79</td>
<td>1963 - Oct. 22</td>
<td>1964 - Oct. 20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T5</td>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>72</td>
<td>2015 - Nov. 23</td>
<td>2016 - Nov. 9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T5</td>
<td>Michael Jordan</td>
<td>72</td>
<td>1987 - Dec. 29</td>
<td>1988 - Dec. 6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>71</td>
<td>1971 - Nov. 21</td>
<td>1972 - Nov. 8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>1970 - Feb. 6</td>
<td>1971 - Jan. 20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Michael Jordan</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>1990 - Nov. 24</td>
<td>1991 - April 19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Elgin Baylor</td>
<td>64</td>
<td>1961 - Feb. 18</td>
<td>1962 - Oct. 22</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The last time the 27-year-old failed to record 20 or more points was against the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 30, 2024, when he scored 18.</p><p>The Thunder star finished with a game-high 35 points Thursday, helping Mark Daigneault's squad hold off the Celtics 104-102. He also added nine assists, six rebounds, three blocks, and two steals while shooting 13-of-18 from the floor (2-of-5 from distance).</p><p>"A streak is a streak. The awards are the awards. But the most that I'm proud of is winning," Gilgeous-Alexander said postgame, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/CAlmanza1007/status/2032316148100853794">Clemente Almanza of Thunder Wire</a>.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander was second in the league with 31.7 points per game entering Thursday's contest. He's scored 50 or more points on five occasions during this streak, including a career-high 55 versus the Indiana Pacers. Chamberlain had 40 outings of 55 or more points during his 126-game streak.</p><p>Chamberlain's own record-setting run ended against the St. Louis Hawks on Jan. 19, 1963, when he was ejected four minutes into the game for "abusive language" toward a referee.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged 32.5 points on 53.5% shooting during his streak and scored exactly 20 points twice. Chamberlain averaged 49.2 points on 51.1% shooting during his 126-game streak.</p><p>The Thunder are now 103-24 during Gilgeous-Alexander's streak.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MARCH 12: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates during the game against the Boston Celtics on March 12, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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SGA surpasses Wilt's streak of 20-point games in win over Celtics

With the NCAA regular season coming to an end, here's a look at where the nation's best emerging ...

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NBA mock draft: Where prospects stand ahead of March Madness

Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum will make his first appearance of the season Friday against...

<p>Boston Celtics superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> will make his first appearance of the season Friday against the Dallas Mavericks, the team announced.</p><p>The 28-year-old hasn't suited up since rupturing his Achilles tendon last May in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinal versus the New York Knicks.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Back by popular demand <a href="https://twitter.com/jaytatum0?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jaytatum0</a> 📸 <a href="https://t.co/1qVJOyeEUm">pic.twitter.com/1qVJOyeEUm</a></p>— Boston Celtics (@celtics) <a href="https://twitter.com/celtics/status/2030010728703570344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The six-time All-Star previously expressed uncertainty if he would return this season, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3466744" href="https://thescore.com/news/3466744">saying</a> in late January that he "wants to get it right the first time, so it's just a lot to think about."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tatum rejoins a Celtics team that has exceeded expectations in his absence. Boston enters<strong> </strong>Friday's<strong> </strong>contest with a 41-21 record, five games back of the conference-leading Detroit Pistons.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> has stepped up with Tatum sidelined, posting career-best averages of 28.9 points, 7.2<strong> </strong>rebounds,<strong> </strong>and 5.0 assists per game to earn his fifth All-Star selection.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 12: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics celebrates a three point shot in the first half against the New York Knicks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 12, 2025 in New York City.

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Tatum will make season debut Friday vs. Mavs

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