Kobe scores 45, but Rockets edge Lakers (AP)

Kobe scores 45, but Rockets edge Lakers (AP) - Rick Adelman's first game as the Houston Rockets' coach was a winning one. Kobe Bryant made it a nervous one. Bryant scored 45 points, 18 in the fourth quarter, but Shane Battier made a tiebreaking 3-pointer with 2.5 seconds left in the Rockets' 95-93 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night.

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Technology Update: Hooked: A Thriller About Love and Other Addictions (Hardcover)

Timberwolves PG Foye out several weeks (AP)

Timberwolves PG Foye out several weeks (AP) - Timberwolves point guard Randy Foye will be out several weeks because of a lingering knee injury. Tests revealed a stress reaction in his left kneecap, and the team said the second-year player will be out indefinitely. Foye, an NBA all-rookie team selection last season, is an important part of this revamped, inexperienced squad that has only five returning players on the 15-man roster.

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Technology Update: PCS Phone Palm Treo 650 (Sprint) (Wireless Phone)

Mavs agree to terms with Juwan Howard (AP)

Mavs agree to terms with Juwan Howard (AP) - The Dallas Mavericks are bringing back Juwan Howard after agreeing to terms with the veteran forward on Tuesday. Howard, who played for Dallas during parts of the 2000-01 and '01-02 seasons, can't sign with the Mavericks until he clears waivers Wednesday, the same day Dallas plays its season opener at Cleveland.

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Technology Update: Hooked: A Thriller About Love and Other Addictions (Hardcover)

Celtics exercise option on PG Rondo (AP)

Celtics exercise option on PG Rondo (AP) - The Boston Celtics have exercised their contract option on starting point guard Rajon Rondo for the 2008-09 season. The team is counting on the second-year pro to play that position in a lineup with stars Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. Last season, the 6-foot-1 Rondo started 25 of the 78 games he played and averaged 6.4 points and 3.8 assists.

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Technology Update: SanDisk Micro Secure Digital 2 GB Memory Card (SDSDQ-2048-A11M) Retail Package (Electronics)

Stern adding to All-Star weekend in NO (AP)

Stern adding to All-Star weekend in NO (AP) - The NBA's All-Star weekend is going to be a working vacation. With the festivities heading to New Orleans this season, the league is planning an All-Star day of service on that Friday to kick off events. NBA commissioner David Stern will announce those plans at a news conference Wednesday before the Hornets host Sacramento that night.

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Technology Update: RIM - BlackBerry 8830 - Verizon Wireless (Product Advisor) (Digital)

Pavlovic, Cavs agree to 3-year deal (AP)

Pavlovic, Cavs agree to 3-year deal (AP) - Sasha Pavlovic agreed to a three-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday, ending his lengthy holdout. Pavlovic's agent, Marc Cornstein, confirmed the deal but declined to discuss financial terms. After a summer-long stalemate extended through the Cavaliers' preseason, Cornstein said talks picked up over the last couple days with major concessions made by both sides.

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Technology Update: The Rough Guide to the iPhone (Rough Guide Reference) (Paperback)

Durant to play opener despite injury (AP)

Durant to play opener despite injury (AP) - Kevin Durant's much anticipated regular season debut won't be overshadowed by the SuperSonics' impending departure from Seattle. At least not on Wednesday night. Owner Clay Bennett originally set the day of the Sonics' opener as the deadline to have a plan for a new arena in the Seattle area, or he would file relocation papers with the league to prepare for a move to Oklahoma City.

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Technology Update: RIM - BlackBerry 8830 - Verizon Wireless (Product Advisor) (Digital)

Boozer, Williams lead Jazz in rout (AP)

Boozer, Williams lead Jazz in rout (AP) - Carlos Boozer and Deron Williams shouldn't expect invitations to Baron Davis' opulent birthday bash or Stephen Jackson's homecoming party. The Utah Jazz stars have ruined every celebration they've attended in the Bay Area recently. Boozer had 32 points and 15 rebounds, Williams added 24 points and the Jazz jumped right back into last season's playoff form with a 117-96 victory over the Golden State...

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Technology Update: Nokia E61i Smartphone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Spurs give Duncan 2-year, $40M extension (AP)

Spurs give Duncan 2-year, $40M extension (AP) - Tim Duncan has agreed to a two-year, $40 million contract extension with the San Antonio Spurs, an official familiar with the negotiations said Tuesday. The agreement will add to Duncan's existing three-year deal and keep him in San Antonio at least through the 2011-12 season, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the source was not authorized to discuss...

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Technology Update: Sony Ericsson P1i Silver/Black (unlocked)

Duncan, champion Spurs get rings and win (AP)

Duncan, champion Spurs get rings and win (AP) - If only this one night, exacting San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich would give his players a break. With their newest championship banner hanging high above the sellout crowd and the players looking like kids in a candy store as they examined their shiny new championship rings, it was understandably a challenge for the team to buckle down for a regular old basketball game.

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Technology Update: Motorola Moto Q - Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 Smartphone Edition RAM: 64 MB - ROM: 128 MB - miniSD 2.4" TFT ( 320 x 240 ) - camera - IrDA, Bluetooth - CDMA 800/1900 - black, silver (Electronics)

Cavaliers explore signing F Juwan Howard (AP)

Cavaliers explore signing F Juwan Howard (AP) - Dejected over not getting to play in Minnesota with Kevin Garnett, Juwan Howard could end up a teammate of another superstar: LeBron James. Howard, a 13-year veteran forward whose contract was bought out by the Timberwolves on Monday, would fit nicely with James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are desperate for experienced frontline help.

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Technology Update: Sony Ericsson Z710i Twilight Black Phone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Rockets cut Sura, Lucas, Butler and Reed (AP)

Rockets cut Sura, Lucas, Butler and Reed (AP) - Guards Bob Sura and John Lucas III were among four players cut by the Houston Rockets on Monday, the eve of their season opener. Forwards Jackie Butler and Justin Reed were also released as the team reduced its roster to 15 players. The Rockets begin the season against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night.

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Technology Update: Beginning Ubuntu Server Administration: From Novice to Professional (Paperback)

Wolves buy out F Howard, waive G Udrih (AP)

Wolves buy out F Howard, waive G Udrih (AP) - The Minnesota Timberwolves did some wheeling and dealing on Monday, reaching a buyout with veteran Juwan Howard and making a trade with San Antonio to get to the 15-man roster limit before the deadline. The Timberwolves sent a protected 2008 second-round pick to the Spurs for cash considerations and guard Beno Udrih, whom the Wolves immediately waived.

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Technology Update: LD-3W Wf Wireless Gps Module (Electronics)

Nets get Wesley, tell him not to report (AP)

Nets get Wesley, tell him not to report (AP) - The New Jersey Nets opened two roster spots on Monday, trading swingman Bernard Robinson, center Mile Ilic and cash considerations to the New Orleans Hornets for veteran guard David Wesley. The Nets have told Wesley not to report and the team will eat the guaranteed portion of his $1.75 million contract, general manager Ed Stefanski said.

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Technology Update: newzfire.com/ (Website)

After rough summer, Isiah needs a winner (AP)

After rough summer, Isiah needs a winner (AP) - There were a few minutes left when the boos started during a recent New York Knicks exhibition game. That's a few minutes left BEFORE the game. Isiah Thomas' name had just been announced during pregame introductions, and the reaction from the Madison Square Garden crowd wasn't surprising. Disgusted by the accusations against the coach in a sexual harassment trial and fed up with the string of losing...

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Technology Update: Jabra BT5020 Executive Bluetooth Headset (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Penny Hardaway makes Heat roster (AP)

Penny Hardaway makes Heat roster (AP) - Penny Hardaway is officially back in the NBA, after the Miami Heat placed him on their season-opening roster Monday. The Heat released guards Jeremy Richardson and Brian Chase, along with forwards Marcus Slaughter and Devin Green to reach the league-mandated 15-man limit. Hardaway signed a nonguaranteed contract this summer after a strong tryout.

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Technology Update: BRAND NEW Nokia N72 Pink Unlocked GSM Phone

Yi, Mason to start Bucks' opener (AP)

Yi, Mason to start Bucks' opener (AP) - Yi Jianlian will be in Milwaukee's starting lineup when the Bucks open the season in Orlando on Wednesday night. The lineup unveiled Monday by coach Larry Krystkowiak includes the 6-foot-11 power forward from China. Also getting a starting nod is veteran forward Desmond Mason, who signed as a free agent in the offseason to rejoin his former team.

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Durant improving, could start opener (AP)

Durant improving, could start opener (AP) - At least one of the SuperSonics' top-five draft picks appears ready to debut on time. Kevin Durant, Seattle's second overall choice, moved fluidly while completing practice Monday, two days before the season opener at Denver. It was the first extensive basketball work for last season's national college player of the year since he sprained his left ankle in a preseason game Oct.

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Technology Update: Adorama BLM-1 Replacement Rechargeable Battery for Olympus Digital Cameras, 7.4v, 1500mAh

Barkley likely to criticize Kobe again (AP)

Barkley likely to criticize Kobe again (AP) - Charles Barkley is calling out Kobe Bryant again for dogging it. Barkley criticized Bryant on Monday for the way he asked the Lakers to trade him, then for not appearing to give his full effort since owner Jerry Buss said he would consider a deal. So when Barkley goes on the air Tuesday night for TNT's season-opening doubleheader, he will probably have some strong words about Bryant for the second...

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Technology Update: newzfire.com/ (Website)

Uncertainty reigns for Bryant and Lakers (AP)

Uncertainty reigns for Bryant and Lakers (AP) - Kobe Bryant remains a Laker -- for now. Because of the difficulty involved in trading an NBA superstar, Bryant could play in a Los Angeles uniform for days, weeks or months, no matter how much he wants out or those in charge wish to move him. Bryant professes to be very close to his coach and quite fond of his teammates.

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Technology Update: SanDisk Micro Secure Digital 2 GB Memory Card (SDSDQ-2048-A11M) Retail Package (Electronics)

Knicks exercise options on 4 players (AP)

Knicks exercise options on 4 players (AP) - Forward David Lee, guard Nate Robinson, forward Renaldo Balkman and guard Mardy Collins had options exercised on their contracts by the New York Knicks. The team announced Saturday that it has exercised the fourth-year options for Lee and Robinson and the third-year options for Balkman and Collins. NBA rookie contracts are for two years, with team options for the third and fourth seasons.

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Technology Update: Motorola RAZR V3m Phone (Sprint) (Wireless Phone)

Garnett has triple-double in Boston win (AP)

Garnett has triple-double in Boston win (AP) - Kevin Garnett made a statement against LeBron James and the defending Eastern Conference champions. Garnett had 21 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists to lead the Boston Celtics to a 114-89 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the teams' final preseason game on Friday night. Ray Allen scored 20 points and Paul Pierce 12 in a game that was more intense than most preseason contests.

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Technology Update: Motorola RAZR V3m Phone (Sprint) (Wireless Phone)

Nuggets G Atkins out 6-8 weeks (AP)

Nuggets G Atkins out 6-8 weeks (AP) - Denver Nuggets guard Chucky Atkins is expected to miss six to eight weeks after an MRI on Saturday revealed a severe right groin strain. Atkins, who signed with the Nuggets in July, has been bothered during the preseason by a pulled groin. He left an exhibition game against Phoenix on Thursday with a groin injury.

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Technology Update: Nokia 6630 UNLOCKED GSM Triband Bluetooth SmartPhone (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Knicks exercise options of 4 players (AP)

Knicks exercise options of 4 players (AP) - Forward David Lee, guard Nate Robinson, forward Renaldo Balkman and guard Mardy Collins had options exercised on their contracts by the New York Knicks. The team announced Saturday that it has exercised the fourth-year options for Lee and Robinson and the third-year options for Balkman and Collins. NBA rookie contracts are for two years, with team options for the third and fourth seasons.

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Technology Update: Jabra BT5020 Executive Bluetooth Headset (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Isiah urges Stringer to 'get the facts' (AP)

Isiah urges Stringer to 'get the facts' (AP) - Isiah Thomas urged C. Vivian Stringer to "get the facts" about what he said during a sexual harassment trial Friday, after the Rutgers women's coach was quoted as saying his comments during a deposition were "disgusting." A portion of the deposition was shown in court during the trial, in which a jury ruled that Thomas and Madison Square Garden sexually harassed former team employee Anucha Browne...

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Technology Update: mjes.com.ar (Website)

Sonics F Durant uncertain for opener (AP)

Sonics F Durant uncertain for opener (AP) - Kevin Durant missed his second consecutive preseason game for the SuperSonics Friday night. The second overall pick in June's draft was back in Seattle shooting and walking on a treadmill to test his sprained left ankle. Then Jeff Green, the fifth overall pick, sprained his left ankle during the third quarter of Friday's game with the Phoenix Suns.

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Technology Update: HP iPAQ HW6515 Pocket PC Quadband Phone Edition GPS HW6500 (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Kobe expected to be ready for opener (AP)

Kobe expected to be ready for opener (AP) - Kobe Bryant didn't practice with the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday because of the sprained right wrist that kept him out of Friday night's final exhibition game against the Sacramento Kings in Las Vegas. Bryant didn't travel to Las Vegas with the team and his status was day-to-day, Lakers spokesman John Black said Coach Phil Jackson said he expected Bryant to play Tuesday night in the season...

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Technology Update: Nokia N75 Black Phone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Griffin drunk when he crashed into train (AP)

Griffin drunk when he crashed into train (AP) - Former NBA player Eddie Griffin had more than three times the legal alcohol limit in his system when he crashed his sport utility vehicle into a moving train and died this summer, according to an autopsy report released Friday. The Harris County Medical Examiner's office said the 25-year-old Griffin died of "multiple blunt force injuries." The medical examiner's office performed tests on Griffin's...

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Technology Update: PREMIUM RUBBERIZED PROGUARD COVER HARD CASE (With Optional Detachable Belt Clip) for PALM ONE TREO 680 (Choose from Red, Pink, Hot Pink, Blue, Black) - Retail Packaging (Red) (Apparel)

Nets' Kidd sharp in preseason debut (AP)

Nets' Kidd sharp in preseason debut (AP) - Jason Kidd made his preseason debut, and the New Jersey Nets looked sharp with their starting five finally on the floor in a 102-86 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday night. Vince Carter scored 22 points on 8-of-11 shooting and Richard Jefferson added 15 for the Nets, who pulled away for good late in the first half en route to their second easy victory over the Knicks this month.

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Technology Update: Nokia E70 Phone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Bryant misses Lakers' exhibition win (AP)

Bryant misses Lakers' exhibition win (AP) - Ronny Turiaf and Andrew Bynum each scored 18 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers past the Sacramento Kings 101-97 on Friday night in the team's final preseason game. Turiaf, who was 5-of-7 from the field, had eight rebounds, while Bynum, who was 7-of-10 from the field, had seven. Also for the Lakers, who finished 3-4 in the preseason, Derek Fisher added 15 points with five assists.

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Technology Update: palmOne Treo 650 PDA Phone (Verizon Wireless) (Wireless Phone)

KG has triple-double in Celtics' win (AP)

KG has triple-double in Celtics' win (AP) - Kevin Garnett made a statement against LeBron James and the defending Eastern Conference champions. Garnett had 21 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists to lead the Boston Celtics to a 114-89 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the teams' final preseason game on Friday night. Ray Allen scored 20 points and Paul Pierce 12 in a game that was more intense than most preseason contests.

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Technology Update: Nokia E61i Smartphone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Thomas rebukes Stringer for comments (AP)

Thomas rebukes Stringer for comments (AP) - Isiah Thomas urged C. Vivian Stringer to "get the facts" about what he said during a sexual harassment trial Friday, after the Rutgers women's coach was quoted as saying his comments during a deposition were "disgusting." A portion of the deposition was shown in court during the trial, in which a jury ruled that Thomas and Madison Square Garden sexually harassed former team employee Anucha Browne...

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Technology Update: BRAND NEW Nokia N72 Pink Unlocked GSM Phone

Sonics F Durant doubtful for opener (AP)

Sonics F Durant doubtful for opener (AP) - Kevin Durant missed his second consecutive preseason game for the SuperSonics Friday night. The second overall pick in June's draft was back in Seattle shooting and walking on a treadmill to test his sprained left ankle. Then Jeff Green, the fifth overall pick, sprained his left ankle during the third quarter of Friday's game with the Phoenix Suns.

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Technology Update: Adorama BLM-1 Replacement Rechargeable Battery for Olympus Digital Cameras, 7.4v, 1500mAh

Kings G Bibby to miss at least 6 weeks (AP)

Kings G Bibby to miss at least 6 weeks (AP) - Sacramento Kings guard Mike Bibby will miss at least the first six weeks of the regular season after tearing a ligament in his left thumb. Bibby was injured during Thursday's practice, and an MRI revealed the tear Friday night. The injury could sideline the point guard for two months or longer, the team said.

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Technology Update: Samsung SGH-X830 Phone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Bucks C Bogut has sprained left wrist (AP)

Bucks C Bogut has sprained left wrist (AP) - Andrew Bogut has a sprained left wrist, the Milwaukee Bucks said Thursday after the 7-foot center had more tests to determine the severity of the injury. Bogut left the Bucks' exhibition game at Denver on Tuesday night in the third quarter. X-rays after the game were negative, and an MRI exam on Wednesday revealed no broken bones or other serious problems.

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Technology Update: palmOne Treo 650 PDA Phone (Verizon Wireless) (Wireless Phone)

Pistons rookie G Stuckey out 6 weeks (AP)

Pistons rookie G Stuckey out 6 weeks (AP) - Detroit Pistons guard Rodney Stuckey had surgery on his broken left hand Thursday and is expected to be out for about six weeks. The rookie from Eastern Washington injured his hand in Detroit's final exhibition game Wednesday night. He averaged 12.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.3 steals in eight games.

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Technology Update: palmOne Treo 650 PDA Phone (Verizon Wireless) (Wireless Phone)

Lewis returns in Magic preseason finale (AP)

Lewis returns in Magic preseason finale (AP) - The Orlando Magic finally got to test the new inside-out combination of Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis. After a rough first quarter, coach Stan Van Gundy liked what he saw. Lewis scored 16 points in his first preseason game in three weeks, lifting the Magic over the San Antonio Spurs 99-90 Thursday night.

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Technology Update: Motorola KRZR K1 Silver Quartz Phone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Bulls C Wallace sprains left ankle (AP)

Bulls C Wallace sprains left ankle (AP) - Kirk Hinrich scored 20 points and Ben Wallace scored eight points before leaving late in the second quarter with a sprained left ankle as the Chicago Bulls defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 97-81 on Thursday night. In their final preseason game, the Bulls also lost forward Tyrus Thomas in the third quarter with a right foot injury and rookie forward Joakim Noah went down in the fourth quarter with what...

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Technology Update: Nokia 6630 UNLOCKED GSM Triband Bluetooth SmartPhone (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Bryant to miss Lakers' final exhibition (AP)

Bryant to miss Lakers' final exhibition (AP) - Kobe Bryant will miss the Los Angeles Lakers' exhibition game against the Sacramento Kings on Friday night because of a sprained right wrist -- an injury that isn't considered to be serious. Lakers spokesman John Black said Bryant didn't travel to Las Vegas for the team's seventh and final exhibition game.

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Technology Update: Nokia 6630 UNLOCKED GSM Triband Bluetooth SmartPhone (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Stern: No penalties for refs in casinos (AP)

Stern: No penalties for refs in casinos (AP) - David Stern acknowledged Thursday that more than half of his 56 referees had violated NBA policies about casino gambling, but said none will be punished because he felt the rules were outdated. Instead, Stern said he is altering the policies, leaning toward allowing referees to gamble in casinos during the offseason -- except for betting in sports books.

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Mavs F Howard out with sprained wrist (AP)

Mavs F Howard out with sprained wrist (AP) - Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard is out with a sprained left wrist and will be re-evaluated next week. An MRI exam Wednesday revealed the sprain after Howard injured his wrist Tuesday night in the Mavericks' final preseason game, a 96-88 victory against Chicago. Howard will miss the first two games of the regular season anyway because of his suspension for an altercation with Sacramento center...

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Technology Update: HTC 11 Pin to 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Adapter (Apparel)

Oden-less Blazers top Durant-less Sonics (AP)

Oden-less Blazers top Durant-less Sonics (AP) - It was supposed to be Portland's first look at Kevin Durant, the player the Trail Blazers didn't take in the draft in favor of Greg Oden. Instead, it was a routine, albeit close, exhibition game. Durant, the No. 2 pick in the draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, sprained his ankle on Tuesday and didn't play Wednesday when the Blazers beat the Sonics 109-107.

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Technology Update: Nokia E70 Phone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Pistons rookie Stuckey breaks hand (AP)

Pistons rookie Stuckey breaks hand (AP) - Detroit rookie Rodney Stuckey broke his left hand in the third quarter of the Pistons' 104-85 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night. "We'll have to wait and see what happens when they get a better look at it tomorrow, but it is really disappointing," said Pistons coach Flip Saunders.

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Technology Update: Jabra BT5020 Executive Bluetooth Headset (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Walker to Wolves, Heat get Davis, Blount (AP)

Walker to Wolves, Heat get Davis, Blount (AP) - Antoine Walker's turbulent time with the Miami Heat is over. The Heat traded the three-time All-Star forward to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday in a five-player deal that came one day after Miami completed a winless preseason. Walker, backup center Michael Doleac, oft-injured forward Wayne Simien and a conditional first-round draft pick were sent to Minnesota for former Miami swingman...

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Technology Update: Sony Ericsson W880i Walkman Flame Black Phone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Heat winless in preseason for 1st time (AP)

Heat winless in preseason for 1st time (AP) - When the Miami Heat return to the practice floor sometime Thursday, they'll have two simple tasks. Forget about October. Get ready for November. Manu Ginobili scored 22 points on 6-for-7 shooting, and the San Antonio Spurs sealed a dismal exhibition season for the Heat with a 104-87 victory Tuesday night.

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Technology Update: Sony Ericsson P1i Silver/Black (unlocked)

GMs: Spurs will repeat, Nowitzki won't (AP)

GMs: Spurs will repeat, Nowitzki won't (AP) - The San Antonio Spurs were picked as the favorites to win another championship in a poll of NBA general managers, who gave Dirk Nowitzki no chance of repeating as league MVP. Instead, LeBron James was chosen as the likely MVP by GMs who voted in the sixth annual NBA.com GM survey. Nowitzki, who won the award last season, did not receive a single vote.

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Lakers' Odom may miss first 2 weeks (AP)

Lakers' Odom may miss first 2 weeks (AP) - Los Angeles Lakers forward Lamar Odom, sidelined since the start of training camp after undergoing surgery on his left shoulder, could miss the first two weeks of the season. "It could be five games, it could be one or two games. We don't know," Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Tuesday night before a game against the Utah Jazz at Honda Center.

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Technology Update: Motorola A1200 UNLOCKED GSM Quaband Bluetooth SmartPhone - RED

Stoudemire returns to Suns in scrimmage (AP)

Stoudemire returns to Suns in scrimmage (AP) - Amare Stoudemire announced his return to the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night with a few thunderous dunks to the delight of several thousand fans at a public scrimmage. "It went great. I felt good out there," he said afterward. "I felt healthy. I felt strong. I've just got to get in a little better shape and I'll be OK." Stoudemire had not practiced since undergoing minor arthroscopic surgery on his...

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Technology Update: MOTOROLA Mobile Office Tools for Motorola RAZR 3 Cellular Phone (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Mavericks F Howard sprains left wrist (AP)

Mavericks F Howard sprains left wrist (AP) - Josh Howard scored 19 points before leaving in the third quarter with a wrist injury, and the Dallas Mavericks completed their preseason schedule with a 96-88 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday night. Howard was on defense when he sprained his left wrist while reacting to a pump-fake by Chicago's Ben Gordon.

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Technology Update: Cingular Treo 750 Cellular Phone by Palm

Jazz-Lakers game in San Diego canceled (AP)

Jazz-Lakers game in San Diego canceled (AP) - The preseason game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Utah Jazz scheduled for Thursday night at San Diego was canceled because of the devastation caused by wind-whipped fires that forced at least 346,000 homes in San Diego County to be evacuated. "There is simply too much devastation in the area and too much uncertainty about what will happen in the next few days," Tim Harris, the Lakers' senior...

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Technology Update: Samsung SGH-X830 Phone (Unlocked) (Wireless Phone Accessory)

Durant sprains ankle, may miss opener (AP)

Durant sprains ankle, may miss opener (AP) - Kevin Durant, the second overall choice in the NBA draft, left the arena using crutches and was wearing a soft boot after spraining his left ankle late in the SuperSonics' exhibition game loss to Golden State on Tuesday night. A Sonics spokesman said in an e-mail late Tuesday that Durant will not travel to Portland for Wednesday night's game or to the team's preseason finale against Phoenix in...

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Technology Update: Palm Treo 600 Smartphone (Unlocked)

Yi leads Bucks past Wolves 106-97 (AP)

Yi leads Bucks past Wolves 106-97 (AP) - Yi Jianlian finally had a game to smile about. Yi, the sixth overall selection in the 2007 NBA draft, had his best game so far. He scored 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting, hustled at both ends of the floor and grabbed 12 rebounds in his third start as the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 106-97 Saturday night.

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Wizards waive 40-year-old C Massenburg (AP)

Wizards waive 40-year-old C Massenburg (AP) - The Washington Wizards waived Tony Massenburg on Sunday, ending the 40-year-old's bid at a comeback. Massenburg was hoping to play for what would have been an NBA-record 13th franchise. But he averaged two points, 1.8 rebounds and only 8.3 minutes in four preseason games. For his career, Massenburg averaged 6.2 points and 4.3 rebounds over 13 NBA seasons.

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Suspended Nuggets G Smith issued summons (AP)

Suspended Nuggets G Smith issued summons (AP) - Denver Nuggets guard J.R. Smith, suspended by the team for the first three games of the regular season, was issued a summons on charges including assault after an incident at a night club Oct. 13, court records show. The team announced Saturday that Smith was suspended "for conduct detrimental to the team," but no details were released.

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Bobcats F Morrison likely out for season (AP)

Bobcats F Morrison likely out for season (AP) - Charlotte Bobcats reserve forward Adam Morrison is likely done for the season after an MRI exam on Sunday revealed a torn ligament in his left knee. The injury occurred with about 5 1/2 minutes left in the third quarter of Saturday night's 113-93 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Morrison was attempting to defend Luke Walton on a drive to the basket and crumpled to the floor in severe pain while...

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Yi scores 15 as Bucks beat Wolves 106-97 (AP)

Yi scores 15 as Bucks beat Wolves 106-97 (AP) - Yi Jianlian finally had a game to smile about. Yi, the sixth overall selection in the 2007 NBA draft, had his best game so far. He scored 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting, hustled at both ends of the floor and grabbed 12 rebounds in his third start as the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 106-97 Saturday night.

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Magic beat Cavs in China preseason game (AP)

Magic beat Cavs in China preseason game (AP) - Stan Van Gundy has an idea what he might do if he loses his job coaching the Orlando Magic: head to China. Van Gundy's team beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 100-84 on Saturday, sweeping a two-game preseason series in China between the teams on a special tour to expand the NBA's audience in the country. On Thursday, the Magic pounded a team of Chinese All-Stars 116-92.

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Mavs' Howard suspended 2 games for fight (AP)

Mavs' Howard suspended 2 games for fight (AP) - Mavericks forward Josh Howard was suspended Friday for the first two games of the regular season, punishment for a fight with Sacramento center Brad Miller earlier in the week. Howard was ejected from an exhibition Tuesday against the Kings after delivering a forearm to the back of Miller's neck. He also pushed Miller, who had shoved Dallas guard Devin Harris to the ground.

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Kings C Williams' lawyer: Sex consensual (AP)

Kings C Williams' lawyer: Sex consensual (AP) - Sacramento Kings reserve center Justin Williams and his girlfriend had consensual sex with the woman who is accusing him of sexual assault, his attorney said Saturday. "In no way, shape or form did anything wrong happen," William Portanova said in a telephone interview. "Unequivocally, 100 percent, nothing wrong." Police announced Thursday they were investigating allegations that Williams had...

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Nuggets suspend J.R. Smith for 3 games (AP)

Nuggets suspend J.R. Smith for 3 games (AP) - Denver Nuggets guard J.R. Smith was suspended for the first three games of the regular season "for conduct detrimental to the team." Nuggets player personnel director Mark Warkentien declined on Saturday to specify Smith's transgression. "I take full responsibility for my actions that led to this suspension," Smith said in an apology distributed by the team.

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Houston ends comeback try with Knicks (AP)

Houston ends comeback try with Knicks (AP) - Allan Houston ended his comeback attempt with the New York Knicks on Saturday, saving Isiah Thomas from possibly having to cut one of the top scorers in franchise history. Houston rejoined his former team late last week, two years after he was forced to retire because of chronic knee pain. However, the Knicks already had the maximum 15 players under contract, and Thomas said he only gave the...

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Rockets spoil Durant's debut in Seattle (AP)

Rockets spoil Durant's debut in Seattle (AP) - Seattle SuperSonics rookie Kevin Durant realized a dream Saturday night when he was on the same court with his boyhood idol, Tracy McGrady. The reality, however, is Durant has a lot to learn before he can measure up to the 11-year NBA star. McGrady scored 30 points and the Houston Rockets beat the Sonics 117-94 to spoil Durant's home debut.

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Nets' Kidd accused of groping woman (AP)

Nets' Kidd accused of groping woman (AP) - A woman has accused NBA star Jason Kidd of harassing and groping her this month at a trendy Manhattan nightspot. Kidd spokesman Scott Miranda said the accusation was "a complete fabrication and it is sad that someone would make something like this up." The New York Police Department confirmed Wednesday the 23-year-old woman filed a complaint against another club-goer on Oct.

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NBA looks to expand with 'China Games' (AP)

NBA looks to expand with 'China Games' (AP) - LeBron James stood in the middle of the court at halftime, an advertisement as big as any for next year's Olympics. He waved a replica of the red and silver torch for the Beijing Games while Chinese and U.S. flags hung from the rafters of newly built Qizhong Arena. The public address announcer mingled English with Chinese.

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Bucks release forward Samaki Walker (AP)

Bucks release forward Samaki Walker (AP) - The Milwaukee Bucks waived Samaki Walker on Wednesday. The 31-year-old Walker signed a free-agent contract with Milwaukee three weeks ago, but did not appear in a game during the preseason. Walker, a 10-year veteran and former first-round pick by Dallas, has also played for San Antonio, the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami, Washington and Indiana.

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KG, Allen shine in Celtics home debut (AP)

KG, Allen shine in Celtics home debut (AP) - The Boston Celtics' new highlight video isn't a collection of great plays from their NBA-record 16 championships. Not a series of clips from their more recent, forgettable seasons, either. Instead, the theme was "a very eventful offseason," with scenes from the news conferences where Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen -- and Scot Pollard and Eddie House -- were unveiled as the saviors of the once-proud...

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Bryant at practice, should play Thursday (AP)

Bryant at practice, should play Thursday (AP) - Kobe Bryant returned to practice after sitting out the previous three days, and coach Phil Jackson said he expects the disgruntled Los Angeles Lakers' star to play in an exhibition game Thursday night. "Yeah, we'll probably play him, get him out there," Jackson said after practice Wednesday. "He seemed all right, sure did." The Lakers face Seattle in Bakersfield on Thursday night in the first of...

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MSG, Isiah ask judge to cut $11.6M award (AP)

MSG, Isiah ask judge to cut $11.6M award (AP) - Madison Square Garden and Knicks coach Isiah Thomas have asked a judge to reduce the $11.6 million in punitive damages a jury awarded to a former team executive after concluding she was sexually harassed and fired out of spite. Anucha Browne Sanders was awarded the damages this month after a three-week trial that portrayed the Knicks' offices as a dysfunctional clubhouse where Browne Sanders...

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LeBron looms large in Shanghai (AP)

LeBron looms large in Shanghai (AP) - LeBron James looms large in Shanghai. He hovers over a basket in billboards around the city leading to Wednesday's NBA exhibition game between his Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic and another game Saturday in the former Portuguese territory of Macau. "For me, growing up, I never thought about having a billboard anywhere," James said Tuesday, slipping off a white NBA headband and replacing...

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Iverson helps Nuggets rip Bucks 104-78 (AP)

Iverson helps Nuggets rip Bucks 104-78 (AP) - Allen Iverson scored 22 points to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 104-78 exhibition victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night at Green Bay's Resch Center. Carmelo Anthony added 16 points for the Nuggets, who never trailed. Denver led 55-50 early in the third quarter before going on a 15-0 run. Charlie Bell led Milwaukee with 17 points, all in the first half.

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Morrison's improved shooting continues (AP)

Morrison's improved shooting continues (AP) - After a rocky rookie year and offseason moves that took him out of the starting lineup, Adam Morrison has embraced his new role with the Charlotte Bobcats. Gerald Wallace scored 20 points and Morrison added 15 off the bench Monday night in the Bobcats' 96-86 exhibition victory over the New Jersey Nets.

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Donaghy forfeits $30,000 as part of plea (AP)

Donaghy forfeits $30,000 as part of plea (AP) - Former NBA referee Tim Donaghy has forfeited $30,000 in restitution to the government under his plea deal in a basketball gambling scam. Donaghy, who admitted to betting on games he officiated, made the payment last month, according to court records. Robert Nardoza, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office in Brooklyn which is prosecuting the case, confirmed the payment.

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Kobe denies report he cleaned out locker (AP)

Kobe denies report he cleaned out locker (AP) - Kobe Bryant sat out practice for the second straight day Monday because of a sore knee, and said he didn't know if he'd play in the Los Angeles Lakers' next exhibition game. The Lakers face the Seattle SuperSonics on Thursday night in Bakersfield -- the first of six exhibition games in nine days. Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson said Bryant asked to rest his legs, adding that treatment included ice...

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Lakers' Bryant misses practice again (AP)

Lakers' Bryant misses practice again (AP) - Kobe Bryant sat out practice for the second straight day Monday because of a sore knee, and said he didn't know if he'd play in the Los Angeles Lakers' next exhibition game. The Lakers face the Seattle SuperSonics on Thursday night in Bakersfield -- the first of six exhibition games in nine days. Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson said Bryant asked to rest his legs, adding that treatment included ice...

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Injuries keep mounting for Heat (AP)

Injuries keep mounting for Heat (AP) - Shaquille O'Neal walked off the Miami Heat practice floor slowly, a bruised left quadriceps souring his mood. "Terrible," was his answer to a "How is it?" query as he departed, though O'Neal sent word later that he wasn't being serious. Still, there's already cause for some serious concern around Heat camp -- as eight of Miami's 20 players were unable to practice Monday because of injuries.

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Spurs rout Euro champ Panathinaikos (AP)

Spurs rout Euro champ Panathinaikos (AP) - Tim Duncan scored 20 points to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a 113-91 victory Saturday over Panathinaikos of Greece. The reigning NBA champion Spurs never trailed against the Euroleague champions and were up by as many as 29 in the exhibition game. Duncan played just over 21 minutes and sat out the fourth quarter, as did the Spurs' other starters.

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Yi inconsistent in first preseason start (AP)

Yi inconsistent in first preseason start (AP) - Ronnie Brewer scored 20 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Utah Jazz to a 92-78 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday night. Milwaukee rookie Yi Jianlian started for the first time in the NBA and scored 13 points in 28 minutes. He also had eight of the Bucks' 30 turnovers. Mo Williams, who signed a six-year, $51.5 million contract in the summer, led the Bucks with 22 points.

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Duncan, Spurs rout Panathinaikos (AP)

Duncan, Spurs rout Panathinaikos (AP) - Tim Duncan scored 20 points to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a 113-91 victory Saturday over Panathinaikos of Greece. The reigning NBA champion Spurs never trailed against the Euroleague champions and were up by as many as 29 in the exhibition game. Duncan played just over 21 minutes and sat out the fourth quarter, as did the Spurs' other starters.

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Wizards' Thomas might play this season (AP)

Wizards' Thomas might play this season (AP) - Etan Thomas was recovering from open heart surgery Friday, and the doctor who performed the operation didn't rule out the possibility of the Washington Wizards' center returning to play in the NBA this season. "We think the function of his heart and lungs should return to normal," said Dr. Hartzell Schaff, a cardiovascular surgeon at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.

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Little reaction toward Isiah at MSG (AP)

Little reaction toward Isiah at MSG (AP) - Jamal Crawford scored 16 points, Zach Randolph added 15, and the New York Knicks beat Maccabi Tel Aviv 112-85 Thursday night in a preseason home opener that often felt more like a road game. There was little reaction toward Isiah Thomas during introductions in the first game in New York since a jury found that the coach and Madison Square Garden sexually harassed former team executive Anucha...

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Pacers pick up options on 3 forwards (AP)

Pacers pick up options on 3 forwards (AP) - The Indiana Pacers have picked up the team options on Danny Granger, Ike Diogu and Shawne Williams. Granger, in his third year, is expected to be a key player in new coach Jim O'Brien's offense. The small forward averaged 13.9 points and 4.6 rebounds last season. Diogu, a power forward, was one of the players the Pacers picked up in last season's trade with Golden State.

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Knicks' Houston practices for first time (AP)

Knicks' Houston practices for first time (AP) - Protecting a lead in the final minute of a scrimmage Friday, a group of role players kicked the ball out to the newcomer for an open 3-pointer. Allan Houston buried the shot, just as he had so many times for the New York Knicks. "He could still shoot the ball," Knicks coach Isiah Thomas said. "He's probably one of the top 10 best shooters to ever play in our sport.

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Cavaliers' James hurts shoulder in loss (AP)

Cavaliers' James hurts shoulder in loss (AP) - P.J. Carlesimo earned his first win as SuperSonics' coach, 96-90 over the Cleveland Cavaliers in an exhibition game Friday night. Cavs All-Star forward LeBron James was forced out of action in the third quarter because of a right shoulder contusion. The injury doesn't appear to be serious. He had 14 points for the Cavs.

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Europe may get regular-season games (AP)

Europe may get regular-season games (AP) - David Stern is confident that Europe is ready to host a regular-season NBA game. The NBA commissioner, who watched the Boston Celtics beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 92-81 in a preseason game at London's O2 Arena, said Thursday that the British capital would be the best place to start. "Their are only a handful of arenas that could undertake it and I think that London leads that list," Stern said...

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Marion powers Suns in preseason opener (AP)

Marion powers Suns in preseason opener (AP) - Shawn Marion had 18 points and 12 rebounds for the Phoenix Suns as they opened the preseason with a convincing 110-99 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night. With Grant Hill getting 17 points and eight rebounds in his first game in a Phoenix uniform, the Suns were off and running from the start, outscoring the Kings 29-18 in the first quarter and led the rest of the way.

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Rockets rout Euro champ Panathinaikos (AP)

Rockets rout Euro champ Panathinaikos (AP) - Yao Ming scored 21 points and had eight rebounds to help the Houston Rockets beat Euroleague champion Panathinaikos of Greece 107-70 in an exhibition game Thursday night. The Rockets played without star forward Tracy McGrady, who had a sore left knee. Club officials said he bumped it slightly in practice Wednesday and they decided at game time to hold him out.

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Isiah gets few boos as Knicks win opener (AP)

Isiah gets few boos as Knicks win opener (AP) - Jamal Crawford scored 16 points, Zach Randolph added 15, and the New York Knicks beat Maccabi Tel Aviv 112-85 Thursday night in a preseason home opener that often felt more like a road game. There was little reaction toward Isiah Thomas during introductions in the first game in New York since a jury found that the coach and Madison Square Garden sexually harassed former team executive Anucha...

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Wizards C Thomas undergoes heart surgery (AP)

Wizards C Thomas undergoes heart surgery (AP) - Washington Wizards center Etan Thomas underwent open heart surgery Thursday at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota to repair a leak of the aortic valve, an irregularity discovered during a routine physical before start of training camp. The Wizards, citing Thomas' right to privacy, made no statement other than to acknowledge the surgery took place.

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Lakers owner would consider trading Kobe (AP)

Lakers owner would consider trading Kobe (AP) - Jerry Buss has already shown that he'll part with superstars. Yet upon hearing that the Los Angeles Lakers' owner would consider trading Kobe Bryant, even Shaquille O'Neal was shocked. "I guess it's business before loyalty. But, wow. He said that?" O'Neal said Thursday in Miami after learning Buss told reporters he would trade Bryant under the right circumstances.

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Walker's fitness still concerns Riley (AP)

Walker's fitness still concerns Riley (AP) - Antoine Walker's level of conditioning is still a concern for the Miami Heat, and coach Pat Riley predicted Wednesday it may take the forward until January to meet his team-mandated body fat level. The issue has been a thorny one for Walker and Riley for the past two seasons. Walker was briefly suspended by Riley last season over body-fat measurements, and was kept out of the opening day of...

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Yi plays better in 2nd game as Bucks win (AP)

Yi plays better in 2nd game as Bucks win (AP) - Rookie Yi Jianlian's second exhibition game was a lot different from his first. The first-year forward scored 12 points -- and committed just four fouls -- as the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Utah Jazz 90-81 on Wednesday night. Jianlian, who came off the bench in the second quarter, went 4-for-11 from the field, including 1-for-2 from 3-point range, for the Bucks (2-0).

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NBA official Crawford makes return (AP)

NBA official Crawford makes return (AP) - Joey Crawford officiated his first NBA exhibition game Wednesday night after being suspended for the end of last season and the playoffs for improper on-court conduct. Commissioner David Stern suspended Crawford in April for his conduct toward San Antonio's Tim Duncan. Crawford ejected Duncan from San Antonio's loss to Dallas after calling a second technical foul on the Spurs star while he was...

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Bobcats' May has microfracture surgery (AP)

Bobcats' May has microfracture surgery (AP) - Charlotte Bobcats forward Sean May is facing six to 12 months of rehabilitation after microfracture surgery on his right knee this week. May had the surgery Tuesday in New York. It involved drilling tiny holes in bones around the knee to try to stimulate cartilage growth. May will be on crutches for up to two months.

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Garnett beats former team, Allen has 28 (AP)

Garnett beats former team, Allen has 28 (AP) - Somebody forgot to tell Ray Allen that the Celtics are Kevin Garnett's team. Allen scored 28 points Wednesday night to lead the Celtics to a 92-81 preseason win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Garnett's first game against his former team. Garnett, who spent 12 years in Minnesota, scored nine points in less than 30 minutes at London's O2 Arena, but he helped in other ways.

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Wizards C Thomas to have heart surgery (AP)

Wizards C Thomas to have heart surgery (AP) - Washington Wizards center Etan Thomas will undergo open heart surgery Thursday to repair a leak of the aortic valve, a procedure that requires months of recovery time but might not mean the end of his NBA career. Thomas missed the start of training camp Oct. 2 after a routine physical revealed an abnormality in his heart.

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Knicks re-sign Allan Houston (AP)

Knicks re-sign Allan Houston (AP) - Allan Houston is rejoining the New York Knicks, two years after knee pain forced him to walk away. The Knicks re-signed their former star guard Wednesday and expect him to begin his attempt to make the team at practice Friday. Once one of the NBA's best outside shooters, Houston retired two years ago this month after chronic knee pain limited him to 70 games over the previous two seasons.

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Mavs rout Spurs in preseason opener (AP)

Mavs rout Spurs in preseason opener (AP) - Josh Howard scored 18 points, Dirk Nowitzki added 13 points and eight rebounds, and the Dallas Mavericks beat the San Antonio Spurs 88-67 on Tuesday night in the preseason opener for both teams. Jose Barea had 13 points, 11 in the fourth quarter, and Brandon Bass had 10 points and seven rebounds for Dallas.

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LeBron plays little in Cavaliers' loss (AP)

LeBron plays little in Cavaliers' loss (AP) - Exhibition? Excruciating was more fitting. It's a good thing the Cleveland Cavaliers and Washington Wizards have a few more weeks to work out the kinks. Antonio Daniels scored 12 points, Gilbert Arenas had nine in his first game back from offseason knee surgery and the Wizards beat the Cavaliers 81-62 on Tuesday night in an NBA preseason matchup of playoff teams from last season.

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Hornets rally from 21 down, edge Rockets (AP)

Hornets rally from 21 down, edge Rockets (AP) - It was only fitting that the New Orleans Hornets' return to their temporary home will be remembered as a comeback. Chris Paul scored 14 points and Hilton Armstrong had 10 of his 12 in the second half as the Hornets rallied from a 21-point first-quarter deficit to beat the Houston Rockets 94-92 Tuesday night in the preseason opener for both teams.

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'Melo, Nuggets cruise past Clippers (AP)

'Melo, Nuggets cruise past Clippers (AP) - Carmelo Anthony and Von Wafer each scored 17 points, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 119-107 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night in the first exhibition game for both teams. Marcus Camby had 13 points and 23 rebounds for Denver. J.R. Smith scored 15 points, but was 0-for-7 on 3-pointers.

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Durant struggles early in Sonics' loss (AP)

Durant struggles early in Sonics' loss (AP) - Kevin Martin scored 27 points to help the Sacramento Kings beat the Seattle SuperSonics 104-98 on Tuesday night in the debut of new coaches in Reggie Theus and P.J. Carlesimo. Seattle rookie Kevin Durant, the No. 2 pick overall in the draft, struggled to contain Martin, who had 14 first-quarter points, and picked up his fourth foul in the second quarter on a charge.

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Noah outplays Yi, but Bucks top Bulls (AP)

Noah outplays Yi, but Bucks top Bulls (AP) - Yi Jianlian acknowledged he's already strained from the spotlight after one meaningless game. "There's a lot of attention on me," he said through translator Roy Lu. "I feel the pressure." Yi made his inauspicious debut for the Bucks, but fellow rookie Joakim Noah looked much more like the polished pro in Milwaukee's 93-88 victory over the Chicago Bulls in the exhibition opener on Tuesday night.

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Knicks C Curry to miss preseason opener (AP)

Knicks C Curry to miss preseason opener (AP) - New York Knicks center Eddy Curry has a tear in his right shoulder and will miss the preseason opener Monday night against Philadelphia. He will be re-evaluated by a team doctor in New York City on Tuesday. Curry, who averaged 19.5 points and 7.0 rebounds last season, had an MRI Sunday at Palmetto Richland Hospital, the team said on its Web site.

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Stern considers playing games in Europe (AP)

Stern considers playing games in Europe (AP) - The NBA is staging another successful preseason tour in Europe. Regular-season games on the continent are the next step. "I think that time is coming closer," NBA commissioner David Stern said Sunday at halftime of the Toronto Raptors win over Virtus Lottomatica Roma. "That has historically been a matter of euros.

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Garnett to face Timberwolves in London (AP)

Garnett to face Timberwolves in London (AP) - Kevin Garnett will face his past before he gets on with his future. The 2004 MVP and 10-time All-Star, who left the Minnesota Timberwolves to join the Boston Celtics in a huge offseason trade, will play against his former team for the first time Wednesday in an NBA preseason game at the O2 Arena in London.

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Law's layup lifts Hawks over Magic 94-93 (AP)

Law's layup lifts Hawks over Magic 94-93 (AP) - Acie Law IV made a fast-break layup with 25 seconds left to lift the Atlanta Hawks to a 94-93 victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night in both teams' preseason debut. Carlos Arroyo missed one of two free throws that would have tied the game with 15 seconds left. Marvin Williams, who had 19 points, made two free throws to seal the win.

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Randolph shines in debut, Knicks win (AP)

Randolph shines in debut, Knicks win (AP) - New York coach Isiah Thomas said his mind never left basketball during his three weeks in a courtroom facing sexual harassment accusations. Maybe that's because he knew what he had in standout forward Zach Randolph. New York's biggest offseason acquisition scored 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting in the Knicks' 101-92 victory over Philadelphia on Monday night as both teams opened preseason play.

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Pistons easily defeat undermanned Heat (AP)

Pistons easily defeat undermanned Heat (AP) - Tayshaun Prince scored 13 points and Chauncey Billups added 12 to help the Detroit Pistons beat the undermanned Miami Heat 103-86 in the exhibition opener Monday night. The Heat were missing Shaquille O'Neal, Dwyane Wade and Alonzo Mourning, who all stayed in Florida to deal with injuries. Udonis Haslem and Antoine Walker spent the night on the bench.

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Bosh leads Raptors by Virtus Roma 93-87 (AP)

Bosh leads Raptors by Virtus Roma 93-87 (AP) - Chris Bosh scored 23 points and grabbed nine rebounds as the Toronto Raptors held off a spirited Virtus Lottomatica Roma squad for a 93-87 preseason victory Sunday. Andrea Bargnani added 13 points and seven rebounds to help the Raptors win in his hometown. Danish forward Christian Drejer led Roma with 23 points.

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Timberwolves beat Turkish team 84-81 (AP)

Timberwolves beat Turkish team 84-81 (AP) - Al Jefferson had 11 points and 17 rebounds, fellow newcomer Ryan Gomes scored 12 points, and the Minnesota Timberwolves beat Efes Pilsen 84-81 Saturday in the first game of the NBA Europe Live tour. Gomes had 10 points and nine rebounds in the first half. Ricky Davis scored 12 points. Drew Nicholas scored 24 points, and Andre Hutson had 15 points and 19 rebounds for the Turkish team.

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Garnett has 19 points in Celtics debut (AP)

Garnett has 19 points in Celtics debut (AP) - Kevin Garnett had 19 points and 16 rebounds in his Celtics debut, and Boston ruined Andrea Bargnani's homecoming with an 89-85 preseason victory over the Toronto Raptors on Saturday. Paul Pierce added 21 points for Boston, while Ray Allen had an off night with only 10 points on 4-of-13 shooting. The start of the NBA Europe Live tour marked the Celtics' first game since Garnett and Allen joined the...

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Nuggets' Carter breaks hand in practice (AP)

Nuggets' Carter breaks hand in practice (AP) - Denver Nuggets guard Anthony Carter broke a bone in his right hand during practice Saturday morning. He fractured the third metacarpal, the team said. No timeline was set for his return. Carter averaged 3.0 points, 5.5 assists and 1.5 rebounds in two games for the Nuggets last season. In eight years in the NBA, Carter has averaged 4.7 points, 3.7 assists and two rebounds in 364 games for Miami, San...

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Yi scores 10 points in Bucks scrimmage (AP)

Yi scores 10 points in Bucks scrimmage (AP) - Yi Jianlian had 10 points and five rebounds, and threw in a halfcourt shot Saturday during the Milwaukee Bucks' open scrimmage at the Bradley Center. Three days after arriving from Shanghai, the Bucks' first-round pick from China also blocked a shot in 25 minutes before 7,109 fans. Yi was the main focus of the scrimmage for the fans, who cheered him loudly when he was introduced before the practice...

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Warriors' Ellis sprains neck in practice (AP)

Warriors' Ellis sprains neck in practice (AP) - Golden State Warriors guard Monta Ellis was released from the hospital after injuring his neck in practice and was expected to sit out Saturday's workout. He left Castle Hospital in Kailua on Friday night on his own accord with what the team said was a neck sprain. Ellis underwent a battery of tests, including an MRI exam and CT scan, and all were normal.

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Wizards' Jamison injures right ankle (AP)

Wizards' Jamison injures right ankle (AP) - Washington Wizards forward Antawn Jamison returned to practice Friday, a day after missing time with a bruised right shin, only to have his session cut short when he tweaked his right ankle. The Wizards said Jamison is questionable for their scrimmage Saturday, when training camp is scheduled to end.

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Yi gets no guarantees of playing time (AP)

Yi gets no guarantees of playing time (AP) - The Milwaukee Bucks have not given first-round pick Yi Jianlian any guarantees of playing time, Milwaukee Bucks coach Larry Krystkowiak said Friday. "It would be unfair to Yi, unfair to Charlie Villanueva, unfair to a lot of people because nothing is being handed to anyone coming into training camp," Krystkowiak said during the Bucks' annual media day.

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Knees hurting Kings' Abdur-Rahim, Hawes (AP)

Knees hurting Kings' Abdur-Rahim, Hawes (AP) - Sacramento Kings forward Shareef Abdur-Rahim will take at least three weeks off to rest his surgically repaired right knee. The Kings also said Friday that first-round draft pick Spencer Hawes will travel to Seattle on Tuesday to get a second opinion on his sore left knee from his personal physician.

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Nets sign veteran G Darrell Armstrong (AP)

Nets sign veteran G Darrell Armstrong (AP) - The New Jersey Nets signed veteran guard Darrell Armstrong on Friday. Armstrong, who was the third oldest player in the NBA at 39 last season, was cut by Indiana earlier this week. He averaged 5.6 points and 2.4 assists in 81 games with the Pacers. "He is a proven NBA veteran who has the potential to add depth to our backcourt," Nets president Rod Thorn said.

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Jordan returns home to watch his Bobcats (AP)

Jordan returns home to watch his Bobcats (AP) - Charlotte Bobcats part-owner Michael Jordan returned to his hometown Friday to get his first glimpse of the team he remade in the offseason. Jordan arrived to learn he may be shopping for big men after forward Sean May's decision to have season-ending knee surgery. Jordan, who has the final say on all basketball decisions, watched from the balcony as the Bobcats went through a 45-minute scrimmage...

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Raptors exercise option on Bargnani (AP)

Raptors exercise option on Bargnani (AP) - Andrea Bargnani will play for the Toronto Raptors through the 2009 season. The Raptors exercised the third-year option on his contract Friday, securing the Italian forward and the 2006 top pick in the draft. The Raptors made the announcement Friday in Rome, where they are to face the Boston Celtics and Virtus Lottomatica Roma this weekend as part of the NBA's preseason European tour.

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Bobcats F Sean May to miss season (AP)

Bobcats F Sean May to miss season (AP) - Charlotte Bobcats forward Sean May will miss the season after deciding to undergo microfracture surgery on his troublesome right knee. May will have the surgery Tuesday in New York. Recovery time will take six to 12 months. "It's extremely frustrating," May said Friday in a phone interview. May, the 13th pick in the 2005 draft, has played in only 58 of 164 games over the past two seasons.

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Randolph finally settling in with Knicks (AP)

Randolph finally settling in with Knicks (AP) - Zach Randolph was surprised to hear the draft-night news that he was being traded to the New York Knicks from Portland, where he had spent his entire six-year NBA career. Now the forward is settling into his first training camp with New York and loving every minute. His only concern is his grandmother, who is seriously ill with kidney disease in Indiana.

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Isiah: 'My head never left basketball' (AP)

Isiah: 'My head never left basketball' (AP) - New York Knicks coach Isiah Thomas said Wednesday his mind "never left basketball" throughout a three-week trial where he was found guilty of sexually harassing a former Knicks executive. "Honestly, my head never left basketball. This is what I've done. This is what I do and this is what I think about the majority of the time," Thomas on the Knicks second day of training camp.

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Celtics face Bargnani, Raptors in Rome (AP)

Celtics face Bargnani, Raptors in Rome (AP) - Andrea Bargnani will be the center of attention inside the arena for the Toronto Raptors. NBA rivals back home probably will be more interested in the performance of the revamped Boston Celtics. The Celtics take on the Raptors on Saturday in Rome to open the NBA Europe Live preseason tour. Bargnani was selected by the Raptors with the No.

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Nuggets' Iverson: Lawsuit unfounded (AP)

Nuggets' Iverson: Lawsuit unfounded (AP) - Allen Iverson said Thursday that officials from a promotions company that sued him knew he wasn't going to show up for a weekend of appearances in Omaha in early August. "I alerted them that I wasn't going to make it and I guess they didn't alert the people that's supposed to have been there," the Denver Nuggets star said after practice.

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Bucks' Yi arrives, dodges age question (AP)

Bucks' Yi arrives, dodges age question (AP) - Yi Jianlian finally arrived. His shroud of secrecy continues. Yi, Milwaukee's top draft pick, joined his new team for his first practice Thursday, but again dodged the question that's hounded him since announcing he was coming to the NBA. Yi's birth certificate lists him as being born Oct. 27, 1987, which would make him 19, but he's long been rumored older.

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Thomas: 'My head never left basketball' (AP)

Thomas: 'My head never left basketball' (AP) - New York Knicks coach Isiah Thomas said Wednesday his mind "never left basketball" throughout a three-week trial where he was found guilty of sexually harassing a former Knicks executive. "Honestly, my head never left basketball. This is what I've done. This is what I do and this is what I think about the majority of the time," Thomas on the Knicks second day of training camp.

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Cavs G Brown involved in altercation (AP)

Cavs G Brown involved in altercation (AP) - Cavaliers guard Shannon Brown said Wednesday he was involved in an altercation with a security guard at a downtown nightclub that started after he was escorted from the bar for wearing a hat. "I was involved in a situation a couple of days ago where I felt like I was assaulted," Brown said at the team's training facility.

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McKie rejoins 76ers as assistant coach (AP)

McKie rejoins 76ers as assistant coach (AP) - Aaron McKie, the NBA's sixth man of the year when Philadelphia went to the NBA Finals, rejoined the 76ers as an assistant coach on Wednesday. McKie averaged 7.4 points and 3.3 rebounds over a 13-year career with Portland, Detroit, the Sixers and the Los Angeles Lakers. He averaged 11.6 points for the 76ers and was chosen the league's top sixth man in 2001, when they lost to the Lakers in the...

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Lakers' Brown faces misdemeanor charges (AP)

Lakers' Brown faces misdemeanor charges (AP) - Los Angeles Lakers center Kwame Brown, charged with disorderly conduct and interfering with a police officer after his cousin was charged with drunken driving last weekend, claimed Wednesday it was simply a misunderstanding. "The truth will come out like it always does," Brown said after the Lakers' second day of practice at their training camp.

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Magic C Battie to have shoulder surgery (AP)

Magic C Battie to have shoulder surgery (AP) - Orlando Magic forward Tony Battie will undergo rotator cuff surgery likely to end his season, the team said Wednesday. He partially tore a ligament a few weeks ago in a pickup game. He had an arm on center Dwight Howard as Howard backed toward the bucket and felt the shoulder give. Battie knew surgery was the likely option after seeing two doctors just before training camp.

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Parker won't play for France until 2009 (AP)

Parker won't play for France until 2009 (AP) - San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker will take a two-year hiatus from the French national team. Parker said on his Web site Wednesday he needed time to rest and pledged to return to the team in time for the 2009 European championship in Poland. "It has been many years that I am playing more than 120 games a year," Parker said.

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Nuggets' Iverson sued by promoter (AP)

Nuggets' Iverson sued by promoter (AP) - Allen Iverson has been sued for not showing up, this time to speak to his fans. The lawsuit filed in Douglas County District Court says the Denver Nuggets star didn't come to a weekend of booked appearances in Omaha in early August, leaving fans at a youth rally and two clubs without their main attraction.

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Nowitzki confident Mavs can win title (AP)

Nowitzki confident Mavs can win title (AP) - Dirk Nowitzki showed up to Dallas Mavericks media day Monday already in midseason form. His hair was shaggy. He was clowning around with teammates. And he was doing his best to explain why this should be the year Dallas puts everything together and wins a championship. Nowitzki certainly knows the speech.

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Kobe shows up, says he's ready to play (AP)

Kobe shows up, says he's ready to play (AP) - Where's Kobe? There was some uncertainty regarding Kobe Bryant's presence at media day Monday, and it increased after the entire Los Angeles Lakers' roster except Bryant hit the floor for preseason promos and interviews shortly after the scheduled 10 a.m. start. As it turned out, there was no mystery. "He's running late.

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Suns' Stoudemire to have minor surgery (AP)

Suns' Stoudemire to have minor surgery (AP) - Suns forward Amare Stoudemire will undergo minor arthroscopic knee surgery on Tuesday but is expected to be sidelined only two to three weeks. The operation to remove a loose particle will be on the All-Star's right knee, not the left on which microfracture surgery was done two years ago. That operation forced him to miss virtually all of the 2005-06 season.

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LeBron eyes NBA title as Cavs camp opens (AP)

LeBron eyes NBA title as Cavs camp opens (AP) - LeBron James ditched the 1980s get-up -- the curly wig and skintight dancer's outfit. Play time's over for now. James slipped into his work clothes Monday and returned to the stage where he performs best. Fresh off his hyped stint hosting the season premiere of "Saturday Night Live," James got back on the basketball court as he and the Cleveland Cavaliers opened training camp with their eyes on...

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Spurs aim for repeat, eye being dynasty (AP)

Spurs aim for repeat, eye being dynasty (AP) - The San Antonio Spurs seem to have it all. Four championships in nine seasons, "dynasty talk" that they routinely blow off and a humble but capable team led by a disciplined and winning coach. This summer they had the big parade and citywide party, their Finals MVP had his storybook wedding, and players' families added little ones here and there.

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Mutombo to play last season with Rockets (AP)

Mutombo to play last season with Rockets (AP) - The Houston Rockets signed Dikembe Mutombo to a one-year contract on Monday, extending the 41-year-old center's NBA career into a 16th season. "I'm going to enjoy every second and every minute of my last year in the NBA," he said. "I hope my farewell tour will be a nice memorable one." The 7-foot-2, 260-pound Mutombo ended up playing a pivotal role for Houston last season, when Yao Ming broke a...

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Jury leaning against Isiah Thomas (AP)

Jury leaning against Isiah Thomas (AP) - A jury indicated Monday that it believes New York Knicks coach Isiah Thomas and Madison Square Garden committed sexual harassment against a former team executive. There was no official verdict, but the wording of a note to the judge by jurors makes it clear they have reached decisions on the key points of the $10 million lawsuit that has turned into a public relations disaster for the franchise.

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Knicks acquire rights to Jared Jordan (AP)

Knicks acquire rights to Jared Jordan (AP) - The Knicks kept tinkering with their roster two days before training camp, acquiring the draft rights to Jared Jordan on Sunday and working toward a buyout of Dan Dickau's contract. The Knicks traded cash considerations to the Los Angeles Clippers in a deal that sends last season's NCAA assists leader back to New York.

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