The Los Angeles Lakers are actively searching for solutions to fill their center position, which has become a pressing need following the loss of Dorian Finney-Smith to the Houston Rockets. With limited moves so far in free agency, names like Deandre Ayton and Nick Richards are surfacing as potential trade targets. Ayton's buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers has raised interest, while Nick Richards of the Phoenix Suns is also on the Lakers' radar.

Another promising option is Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans, who had a solid rookie season, averaging 9.1 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. The Lakers are also exploring trades with the Orlando Magic for Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze. Robert Williams III of the Trail Blazers, whose price may have dropped following Ayton's departure, has also been discussed. Any of these moves could significantly impact the Lakers' frontcourt depth.

Former Michigan State standout A.J. Hoggard has secured a spot with the New Orleans Pelicans for the upcoming NBA Summer League. After four seasons with the Spartans, where he averaged 8.6 points and 4.6 assists, Hoggard transferred to Vanderbilt, further showcasing his playmaking skills with 9.6 points and 4.6 assists per game. Standing at 6-foot-3, he possesses the size and skill set that could translate well to the professional level, making him a player to watch as he embarks on this new chapter.

Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals superstar, is in the spotlight once again as a finalist for the 2025 Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award. This recognition comes three months after he shattered the NHL goals record, and it reflects his commitment to philanthropy, particularly through his 'Victory Over Cancer' initiative. Since launching this campaign, Ovechkin has pledged to donate money for every goal he scores, raising over $150,000 for pediatric cancer research. His milestone 895th goal was celebrated with a donation of the same amount, and he emphasizes the importance of using his platform to support those battling cancer. Other nominees for the award include NBA guard CJ McCollum and tennis star Sloane Stephens. The winner will be announced during the ESPY awards on July 15, further illustrating the impactful legacy Ovechkin is building both on and off the ice.

Three notable alumni from the Governors Challenge basketball tournament have been selected in the 2025 NBA Draft, showcasing the growing influence of this prestigious event. Jeremiah Fears, Thomas Sorber, and Koby Brea have made the leap from high school to the pros, joining a roster of former participants now playing in the NBA.

Jeremiah Fears, the standout from AZ Compass Prep, was the highest pick at No. 7 by the New Orleans Pelicans after an impressive freshman year at Oklahoma. Thomas Sorber followed closely, being drafted No. 15 by the Oklahoma City Thunder after a historic five-overtime game at the Governors Challenge in 2022. Koby Brea rounded out the trio, selected in the second round by the Golden State Warriors and traded to the Phoenix Suns.

Jordan Poole's recent trade from the Washington Wizards to the New Orleans Pelicans marks his third team in two years, a move that arises from a significant deal sending CJ McCollum to Washington. Poole reunites with former Golden State Warriors teammate Kevon Looney, who has signed a two-year contract with the Pelicans worth $16 million. Excited about the reunion, Poole shared his enthusiasm on social media. This fresh start comes after Poole's tumultuous exit from Golden State, which was marred by a public altercation with Draymond Green. Both players now look to capitalize on this new opportunity alongside stars like Zion Williamson and Herb Jones in New Orleans, raising expectations for the Pelicans in the upcoming season.