Jack Norris 
Since the beginning of 2026, the NBA has seen significant shifts in team performance and playoff positioning. The Charlotte Hornets have experienced a major turnaround, while the Detroit Pistons have faced challenges due to injuries. Several teams have capitalised on changes to improve their standings.
Six teams are preparing for one last chance to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 through the interconfederation playoffs. The FIFA Playoff Tournament will see two teams seal their place in the tournament cohosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States. Separate playoffs are also being held by UEFA for the final four European qualifiers.
Gui Santos had a career night, scoring 31 points in the Warriors’ 109-106 win against the Nets. Brandin Podziemski also contributed with 22 points. The Warriors outscored the Nets by 12 points in the fourth quarter.
Harry Wilson is stepping up for Wales following Gareth Bale’s retirement. Since Bale’s departure in 2023, Wilson has scored more goals than any of his countrymen, with 12 of his 17 career international goals coming during that time. Wilson says that ‘no-one can replace Bale’.
Naz Reid was ejected from Wednesday’s game against the Rockets. Reid was frustrated with a foul call in overtime and was handed a technical before being ejected from the contest. With Reid sidelined, Kyle Anderson and Terrence Shannon could see a bump in playing time.
Jamal Murray’s season-high 53 points helped the Denver Nuggets hold off the Dallas Mavericks, 142-135. Nikola Jokic contributed 23 points, 21 rebounds, and 19 assists in the win. The Nuggets are now tied for fourth with Minnesota.
ESPN’s latest NBA Power Rankings highlight the Oklahoma City Thunder’s dominance in the Western Conference. Several teams are vying for playoff positioning as the regular season nears its conclusion. The Los Angeles Lakers are making a loud statement in the West, while the Atlanta Hawks are pushing to escape the Eastern Conference play-in picture.
The Brooklyn Nets will visit the Golden State Warriors after a string of road losses. Several players are out for the season due to injuries. This match follows the Nets’ four consecutive road defeats.
Nikola Jokic had 23 points, 17 rebounds and 17 assists to lead the Denver Nuggets over the Phoenix Suns 125-123. Jokic made the go-ahead basket with 11.5 seconds left. The Nuggets have won six of their last eight games.
The Minnesota Timberwolves secured a victory against the Boston Celtics, marking their first win in that arena since 2005. The game was described as a bizarre, rollercoaster performance, encapsulating the Timberwolves’ season. Despite early struggles and a 15-point deficit, Minnesota rallied to secure the win, showcasing resilience and strong performances from Ayo Dosunmu and Bones Hyland.