Off-Court & Press

Luka Doncic Buys $25M LA Mansion After Signing Mega Extension

Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers)
September 2025

Luka Doncic splashed $25 million on a Manhattan Beach mansion previously owned by Maria Sharapova, just weeks after signing a three-year, $165 million Lakers extension. The move reflects both his growing roots in Los Angeles and the franchise’s commitment to him.
How: Purchased through his business manager Lara Beth Seager, the home was fully rebuilt with KAA Design. Features include a built-in grill, outdoor fireplace, and light-filled spaces. The investment signals Doncic’s intention to remain long-term, aligning with Lakers’ plans to build around him.

Shumpert Reflects on Knicks Regret and NBA Journey

Iman Shumpert (New York Knicks)
September 2025

Former Knicks guard Iman Shumpert admitted he regretted not pushing for a trade earlier in his career, believing his development was hindered by constant positional shifts. Shumpert still carved out a decade-long NBA career, highlighted by a 2016 title with Cleveland Cavaliers. Drafted 17th overall in 2011, Shumpert became a defensive specialist but struggled with offensive consistency. He later thrived as a role player alongside LeBron James. On his new podcast, he revealed frustrations with Knicks’ misuse, joking about guarding power forwards despite being a guard himself.

Pierce Blames Celtics’ Collapse, Not Knicks’ Rise

Paul Pierce
September 2025

Celtics legend Paul Pierce claimed Boston “blew” their playoff series against the Knicks, throwing away 20-point leads in both opening home games. He argued the collapse was down to mismanagement and overreliance on three-point shooting, not New York’s superiority. Pierce compared the 2025 defeat to Boston’s failed 2009 title defense, saying Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury mirrored Kevin Garnett’s absence back then. Despite last year’s championship, Pierce believes the Celtics’ habit of surrendering big leads exposed a fatal flaw in their style.

Windhorst says LeBron undecided on retirement timeline

Brian Windhorst
September 2025

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported LeBron James is going “year to year” regarding retirement. Turning 41 in December, the Lakers star remains undecided if the upcoming season will be his last, despite entering the final year of his current deal. James, chasing a fifth championship, will decide based on performance and Lakers’ success. He averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds last season, showing minimal decline. Potential suitors like Cleveland and Golden State are watching as free agency looms.

Leverkusen close to appointing Kasper Hjulmand as Ten Hag’s successor

Bayer Leverkusen
September 2025

Bayer Leverkusen are set to appoint Kasper Hjulmand as head coach after sacking Erik ten Hag just two games into the season. Ange Postecoglou was briefly considered, but the club moved quickly to secure the out-of-work Danish tactician. Ten Hag, hired as Xabi Alonso’s replacement, failed to convince bosses in preseason or early matches, prompting swift action. Hjulmand’s experience managing Denmark appeals to Leverkusen, who want stability after a turbulent summer transition. Sky Deutschland reports the deal is close to completion.

Kawhi Leonard blasted over endorsement scandal

Kawhi Leonard (Los Angeles Clippers)
September 2025

Kawhi Leonard faces scrutiny over a $48m endorsement deal with disgraced former Clippers sponsor Aspiration, now under league and DOJ investigation. Stephen A. Smith criticised Leonard for earning money off-court while frequently absent from games due to injuries. Smith argued Leonard takes advantage of guaranteed money without consistently playing. The Clippers forward, already plagued by knee issues since 2017, missed 45 games last season. Smith highlighted the irony of Leonard cashing in through endorsements while struggling with long-term availability.

Warriors Weigh Options as Kuminga Contract Saga Drags On

Jonathan Kuminga (Golden State Warriors)
September 2025

Golden State are open to trading Jonathan Kuminga but only for draft picks and young talent, a deal no team has offered. Sacramento and Phoenix showed interest, yet no agreement materialized. The 22-year-old now faces tough contract decisions. Kuminga must either sign a two-year, $45m deal with a team option or accept a one-year, $7.9m qualifying offer. The latter allows free agency in 2026 but limits trade options. The Warriors remain firm as training camp nears.

Kuminga-Warriors Contract Standoff Continues

Jonathan Kuminga (Golden State Warriors)
September 2025

Jonathan Kuminga and Golden State remain locked in contract talks, with no breakthrough after weeks of stalemate. Kuminga must decide between a two-year $45m deal with team option or a one-year $7.9m qualifying offer for unrestricted free agency in 2026. The Warriors want to avoid Kuminga signing the qualifying offer, which blocks potential trade flexibility. Training camp looms in four weeks, and the Oct 1 deadline for his decision heightens tension. Both sides remain firm, waiting for the other to give in.

Pierce Says Rivalry Helped Shape LeBron’s Greatness

Paul Pierce
September 2025

Paul Pierce claimed his battles with LeBron James pushed the superstar to new heights, citing Game 6 of the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals when James delivered 45 points to save the Miami Heat from elimination against Pierce’s Celtics. Pierce admitted James “played the game of his life” in that series, crediting the duel for elevating LeBron’s career trajectory. Despite defending him closely, Pierce said respect grew from those contests, acknowledging he helped bring out the best in James.

Cam Thomas Bets on Himself With Nets Deal

Cam Thomas
September 2025

Cam Thomas accepted Brooklyn’s one-year, $6m qualifying offer, rejecting bigger multi-year deals to become unrestricted in 2026. His decision could shape Jonathan Kuminga’s contract saga, as both young players weigh short-term pay against long-term leverage. Thomas declined a two-year $30m contract with a team option and another one-year $9.5m deal with incentives. His self-bet sets precedent for Kuminga, who is considering rejecting Golden State’s $45m offer to follow a similar path into free agency.

POPULAR ARTICLES