Off-Court & Press

Bulls to Retire Derrick Rose’s Jersey in 2026 Ceremony

Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls)
August 2025

The Chicago Bulls will retire Derrick Rose’s No.1 jersey at the United Center. Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, will join legends Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Bob Love, and Jerry Sloan in the rafters in a special tribute. Drafted first overall in 2008, Rose became a Bulls icon before injuries disrupted his prime. Despite setbacks, he averaged 17.4 points over 723 games and produced memorable highlights, including a 50-point game with Minnesota. The ceremony celebrates his enduring legacy in Chicago.

Indiana Pacers Hand Rick Carlisle Contract Extension After Finals Run

Rick Carlisle (Indiana Pacers)
August 2025

The Indiana Pacers extended coach Rick Carlisle’s contract after he guided them to their first NBA Finals appearance in 25 years. Carlisle’s leadership since returning in 2021 has included consecutive Eastern Conference Finals and cemented his place as the franchise’s winningest coach. Carlisle adapted his style to a faster, aggressive system, turning Indiana into a contender. Despite losing Game 7 of the Finals after Haliburton’s Achilles injury, Carlisle’s track record and community role ensured the extension. He now sits seven wins shy of 1,000 career victories.

John Wall Announces Retirement After 11 NBA Seasons

John Wall (Washington Wizards)
August 2025

John Wall announced his retirement at age 34 after 11 NBA seasons, ending a career defined by explosive playmaking and five All-Star nods. Drafted first overall in 2010, he averaged 18.7 points and 8.9 assists across his career. Wall’s peak came with Washington, where he averaged 23.1 points and 10.7 assists in 2016–17 and made the All-NBA Third Team. Despite a Slam Dunk title and defensive accolades, injuries derailed his later years, limiting appearances and sidelining him for the past two seasons.

Pacers Hand Carlisle New Deal After NBA Finals Run

Rick Carlisle (Indiana Pacers)
August 2025

The Indiana Pacers extended coach Rick Carlisle’s contract after guiding the team to their first NBA Finals in 25 years. Carlisle, already the franchise’s all-time winningest coach, remains rejuvenated in his second stint and now chases 1,000 career coaching victories. Carlisle reshaped Indiana’s style into a faster, aggressive unit, leading to consecutive Eastern Conference finals and last season’s Finals appearance. Though Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury cost them a title shot, management praised Carlisle’s leadership, community work, and resilience in driving the Pacers’ long-term vision.

Raptors Hand Full Control to GM Bobby Webster

Bobby Webster (Toronto Raptors)
August 2025

The Toronto Raptors will not appoint a new president, instead extending Bobby Webster’s role as general manager. MLSE chief Keith Pelley said the review process confirmed Webster as the right leader, citing his championship experience and respected reputation across the league. Webster, one of the architects of Toronto’s 2019 title, will lead roster construction and basketball operations, supported by MLSE. Entering his ninth year as GM, Webster outlined his vision of competitive leadership and reiterated his goal to bring another championship to Toronto.

NBA Pushes for Prop Bet Limits After Gambling Scandal

NBA
August 2025

The NBA and players’ union voiced support for stricter limitations on prop bets following the Jontay Porter gambling scandal. Porter, banned in 2024 after manipulating performances, pleaded guilty to federal conspiracy charges. Ongoing investigations also involve Terry Rozier and Malik Beasley.
The NBA previously restricted betting on two-way players after Porter’s case but now believes more prop bet curbs are necessary to protect integrity. The NBPA views Porter’s case as isolated but acknowledges growing player harassment from gamblers, pushing for regulations to reduce abuse.

Lakers to Honor Pat Riley with Statue Ceremony

Pat Riley (Los Angeles Lakers)
August 2025

The Los Angeles Lakers will unveil a statue of legendary coach Pat Riley outside their arena before facing the Boston Celtics. Riley, who won four NBA titles during the Showtime era, joins Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Riley coached the Lakers to a 533-194 record and five 60-win seasons, shaping NBA history with fast-break dominance. Now president of Miami Heat, he remains one of basketball’s most influential figures. The tribute cements his legacy alongside other Lakers greats.

Bulls Bring Back Iconic Red-Pinstriped Jerseys for 2025-26

Chicago Bulls
August 2025

The Chicago Bulls have reintroduced their legendary black jerseys with red pinstripes as their 2025-26 Statement Edition uniform—first worn during the iconic 1995-96 championship season. Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman helped unveil the design, calling it “legendary.” Last seen in 2013, the jersey pays homage to the Jordan era and will be worn during select games this season. The design also inspired the White Sox’s 2025 City Connect uniform.

Lillard Named GM of Weber State Basketball While Rehabbing Injury

Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers)
August 2025

Damian Lillard has been appointed general manager of Weber State’s basketball program, returning to his alma mater to guide the team while rehabbing from a torn Achilles. Announced at the Weber State Alumni Classic, Lillard will support player development and team operations. The 9-time All-Star recently signed a new 3-year deal with Portland and remains sidelined for 2025–26.

Former Atlanta Hawks owner Tom Cousins passed away at 93

Tom Cousins (Atlanta Hawks)

The Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena released a statement mourning the passing of Tom Cousins, the former Hawks owner and philanthropist who played a key role in moving the team to Atlanta in 1968. Cousins, alongside Carl Sanders, relocated the Hawks from St. Louis, built the Omni Coliseum, and helped shape Downtown Atlanta’s sports and urban identity. He also led transformative community projects like East Lake’s revitalization.

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