Jack Norris 
Ric Flair has criticised Luka Doncic for not playing in Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference semifinals. The WWE legend voiced his frustration and said he hopes Lakers owner Jeanie Buss would trade him next year. Flair also expressed confidence in LeBron James leading the team to victory.
Two streets in Fort Smith will be renamed after Oklahoma City Thunder players. A section of North 25th Street will be renamed after Isaiah Joe, and a part of North 23rd Street will be renamed after Jaylin Williams. City directors approved the changes.
OKC Thunder big Chet Holmgren is making a case for himself as one of the NBA’s most unique talents. His play in the postseason is drawing comparisons to Victor Wembanyama. Holmgren’s two-way abilities and playoff performance are gaining recognition.
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 1-0 lead against the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA’s Conference semi-finals. The Thunder won 108-90 at home. Chet Holmgren led the Thunder with 24 points and 12 rebounds.
Amen Thompson scored a team-high 18 points for the Rockets in their Game 6 loss to the Lakers. He scored 10 of his points in the third quarter. Thompson averaged 19.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists during the series.
Duncan Robinson has been named the recipient of the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for April. The award recognises his advocacy around youth mental health and wellness, his work supporting stroke recovery programs, and his broader community outreach efforts across Detroit. The NBA and NBPA Foundation will donate $20,000 to the Robinson Family Foundation as part of the honour.
The Detroit Pistons are facing concerns about their bench performance. In a recent game, Daniss Jenkins won the battle with Dennis Schroder, but the Pistons’ bench was beaten overall. Slowing down key players like Max Strus while keeping the pressure on Schroder will be important for Detroit.
Cade Povich’s start against the Miami Marlins ended prematurely on Thursday night. The Baltimore Orioles left-hander was removed after three innings with left forearm discomfort. Povich allowed three runs on three hits, walked two and struck out one.
Donovan Mitchell is grateful for James Harden after the Cleveland Cavaliers’ series win against the Toronto Raptors. Despite Harden’s playoff struggles, Mitchell values his communication and experience. The Cavaliers now face the Detroit Pistons in the next round.
Shedeur Sanders, who played eight games in the 2025 NFL season for the Cleveland Browns, may be pushed down the pecking order. An ESPN analyst believes Sanders could be the third-string QB for the franchise. This is potentially due to the fit of Dillon Gabriel, and Deshaun Watson’s return.