Dan Hurley has coached strong teams at UConn since he took over as head coach in 2018. He has won 165 of 234 wins, while leading the Huskies to back-to-back championships in 2023 and 2024.&nbsp;



The challenge will be different in the 2025-26 campaign after Hurley and Co. were eliminated by the Florida Gators in the 2025 NCAA tournament. They want to return to the top of Division I basketball, and Hurley believes this team resembles one of his championship squads.&nbsp;



The Huskies welcomed intriguing players such as Malachi Smith, Alec Melander and Jacob Furphy to bolster their defense, while retaining Alex Karaban and Tarris Reed Jr. on the roster. All the pieces he has at his disposal make Hurley believe he has something special going on.&nbsp;



<h2>Dan Hurley makes bold comparison with 2023 UConn national championship&nbsp;</h2>



While talking with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>analyst Jon Rothstein, Hurley revealed the 2025-26 group reminds him of the squad that won the championship in 2023.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250819_BUS_475336_dan-hurley-1024x576_2e750669.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="dan hurley" class="wp-image-281112" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143957/dan-hurley-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143957/dan-hurley-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143957/dan-hurley-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143957/dan-hurley-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143957/dan-hurley-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143957/dan-hurley-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143957/dan-hurley-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143957/dan-hurley.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UConn coach Dan Hurley.</figcaption></figure>



“Yeah, I think it’s more like the ’23 team, where I do think it’s a strength in numbers,” Hurley said. “I think the depth is what’s gonna make it potentially a championship team or a special season for us.”



He added that the new players should help the defense while working hard to grab rebounds, sending a message to those who don’t commit to the grind.&nbsp;



“If you don’t defend for us this year or rebound the ball the way UConn has built its championship identity on, you’re not going to play,” Hurley warned. “Last year, players got minutes that didn’t guard anywhere near the level we need them to guard at.”



The Huskies have unfinished business, and Hurley is raising the expectations for the new-look team.&nbsp;

Dan Hurley compares this UConn team to his 2023 National Champions

Dan Hurley compares this UConn team to his 2023 National Champions - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Bill Self suffered another coaching loss ahead of the 2025-26 season. The legendary coach will enter a new season with an exciting Kansas Jayhawks roster led by Darryn Peterson, one of the best players of his class.&nbsp;



Self saw Norm Roberts call it a career after last season, following a 14-year stint in Kansas. The coach celebrated Roberts’ career, while admitting that things wouldn’t be the same.&nbsp;



“This is a bittersweet moment for me because Norm and I have been together since 1995,” Self said. “Norm has played a key role to our success at all of the stops we have had together, especially here at Kansas.”



More recently, he saw one of his former players turned coach getting a call from an NBA franchise.&nbsp;



<h2>Bill Self reflects on losing assistant to the NBA&nbsp;</h2>



The Jayhawks’ coaching staff suffered another loss ahead of the upcoming season. They will challenge for the title without Chase Buford, who left to join the Denver Nuggets in the association.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250818_BUS_474744_Bill-Self-1-1024x576_2e9342bd.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Bill Self in 2024" class="wp-image-287587" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head Coach Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks</figcaption></figure>



“Chase just got hired by the Nuggets … You know, he got an assistant coach’s job, which is great for him and (I’m) happy for him. He did a really good job here,” Self said per On3. “I’m in the process of looking into some different things, but I haven’t done anything yet. I feel like I have the scope kind of narrowed down of what I think would be good for us, but I haven’t done anything yet.”



Buford spent one season in Kansas, helping the team post a 21-13 record (11-9 in the conference). He had played from 2007 through 2010 with the Jayhawks, helping Bill Self win the 2008 national championship.

Bill Self opens up on losing staffer to the NBA

Bill Self opens up on losing staffer to the NBA - Bolavip US

Kansas Jayhawks coach Bill Self is doing just fine ahead of the 2025-26 NCAA season. The veteran<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball</a> coach raised some concerns in July after a health scare required a heart procedure.&nbsp;



Self said in July that he felt “strong” while thanking the doctors and people who helped him during that moment. He didn’t forget about the Jayhawks’ offseason and teased fans about a strong season.&nbsp;



The symptoms he experienced are now gone after Self had two stents inserted last month. He is well on track to be ready for the upcoming season, where the Jayhawks will have one of the best players of this class on the roster, Darryn Petterson.



<h2>Bill Self shares update after heart procedure&nbsp;</h2>



During a Friday conversation with the media, Bill Self shared another update on his health. The 23-year veteran coach explained how he approached the post-surgery process and what the doctors told him to do to avoid those scares.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250818_BUS_474740_Bill-Self-1-1024x576_6f9c1abd.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Bill Self in 2024" class="wp-image-287587" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head Coach Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks</figcaption></figure>



“I did take three or four days off (following the surgery), but I’m feeling pretty good,” Self said. “They’ve asked me and told me that I probably could have some improvements in my lifestyle and life choices, primarily with food and exercise. I know you guys have never heard that but it is beneficial to feeling good and healthy. They got me doing some stuff, but I’m feeling good.”



The Jayhawks made it to the NCAA tournament last season, but they only lasted one round, as John Calipari’s Arkansas Razorbacks beat them in the first round.

Bill Self shares another health update after surgery

Bill Self shares another health update after surgery - Bolavip US

Dan Hurley made his thoughts crystal clear about a potential move to the NBA. The UConn Huskies men’s basketball team coach developed one of the most dominant teams in<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball </a>in recent years, taking the Huskies to back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024.&nbsp;



After that second consecutive title, the Los Angeles Lakers listed Hurley as a potential candidate to replace Darvin Ham and take the California team to the top of the NBA again.&nbsp;



Hurley declined the option and stayed with the Huskies, which led the Lakers to bring in JJ Redick to Crypto.com Arena. While the Lakers’ option was off the table, Hurley could also become a candidate to coach the New York Knicks after they fired Tom Thibodeau.&nbsp;



<h2>Dan Hurley on whether he’s considered joining the NBA</h2>



During a Thursday appearance on “Inside College Basketball Now,” Hurley told Jon Rothstein that he never considered the Knicks head coaching vacancy.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250818_BUS_474741_dan-hurley-1024x576_05f26066.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Head coach Dan Hurley of the Connecticut Huskies looks on in the second half of a semifinal game against the Creighton Bluejays during the Big East Men&apos;s Basketball Tournament at Madison Square Garden on March 14, 2025 in New York City. The Bluejays won 71-62." class="wp-image-411558" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/04181250/dan-hurley-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/04181250/dan-hurley-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/04181250/dan-hurley-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/04181250/dan-hurley-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/04181250/dan-hurley-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/04181250/dan-hurley-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/04181250/dan-hurley-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/04181250/dan-hurley.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Dan Hurley of the Connecticut Huskies.</figcaption></figure>



“No, not even a small part of me (thought about it),” Hurley said. “I think, when you’re coming off the year that we had, I think, you know, every thought – and it’s hard to turn off, I think, you know, for most of us, you know, that are coaching at the level, you know, that I’m coaching at at this level of sport?”



“I don’t think – your mind very rarely drifts from your team, your program, your players, where things are headed, especially when you’re coming off of, you know, a season like we had had, you know. So, that – yeah, that was never even a thought, really,” he added.



The Huskies will enter a new season after losing to the Florida Gators in the 2025 NCAA tournament.&nbsp;

Dan Hurley gets brutally honest on his future at UConn and the NBA

Dan Hurley gets brutally honest on his future at UConn and the NBA - Bolavip US

Mark Pope and his Kentucky Wildcats will go against one of the most iconic coaches in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> history, Rick Pitino, and the St. John’s Red Storm in the upcoming 2025-26 NCAA season.&nbsp;



Pope and Pitino go a long way back, as they first crossed paths at Kentucky after a young forward joined the Wildcats that Pitino coached to the national championship in the 1995-96 campaign.&nbsp;



Now in his second season leading his alma mater, Pope is aiming to take the team to another title, but they’ll have to overcome obstacles along the way. St. John’s will be one of their toughest opponents of the season, and Pitno sees this matchup as a special duel between a coach and his son.&nbsp;



“I think, it’s no different than coaching against your son, who obviously stirs different emotions,” Pitino told CBS Sports college basketball analyst Jon Rothstein in Monday’s episode of the “Inside College Basketball Now” podcast.



<h2>Mark Pope asserts dominance over Rick Pitino</h2>



Mark Pope is confident that he can beat his former coach at anything. During Thursday’s episode of the “Eye on College Basketball” podcast, Pope told analyst Matt Norlander that, regardless of the game or situation, he would always beat Pitino. Asked about which coach spent more on their roster ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, Pope didn’t hesitate.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250818_BUS_474742_Rick-Pitino-1024x576_d6161b10.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-285145" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141357/Rick-Pitino-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141357/Rick-Pitino-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141357/Rick-Pitino-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141357/Rick-Pitino-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141357/Rick-Pitino-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141357/Rick-Pitino-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141357/Rick-Pitino-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141357/Rick-Pitino.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Rick Pitino</figcaption></figure>



“It doesn’t matter what question you ask me about Coach P,” Pope said. “I’m going to have done it more and bigger and better coach.”



Pope and Pitino couldn’t lead their respective squads to the national title last campaign, but they have renewed expectations for 2026.&nbsp;

Mark Pope gets real on his dominance over Rick Pitino

Mark Pope gets real on his dominance over Rick Pitino - Bolavip US

UConn Huskies star guard Azzi Fudd opened up on her connection with Paige Bueckers. For years, the nature of their relationship has been a topic of discussion in certain circles of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>.



While Fudd appears to have cleared the air when she shared a picture using a phone case that read “Paige Bueckers’ girlfriend,” confirming what many people thought. They were teammates at UConn from 2021 through 2025, when Bueckers left for the WNBA, creating a deep bond that lasts to this day.



Fudd is now set to lead the Huskies alongside Sarah Strong after they won the 2025 NCAA championship against the South Carolina Gamecocks. She shared details of her relationship with Bueckers ahead of the new season.&nbsp;



<h2>Azzi Fudd shares details behind relationship with Paige Bueckers&nbsp;</h2>



During a conversation with Glamour, Fudd opened up about her relationship with the 2025 No. 1 overall pick. The senior guard said that they aren’t that similar, but they put in the effort to balance each other out.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250818_BUS_474743_Azzi-Fudd-1024x576_9994a2e2.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Azzi Fudd in 2025" class="wp-image-442199" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/16143825/Azzi-Fudd-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/16143825/Azzi-Fudd-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/16143825/Azzi-Fudd-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/16143825/Azzi-Fudd-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/16143825/Azzi-Fudd-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/16143825/Azzi-Fudd-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/16143825/Azzi-Fudd-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/16143825/Azzi-Fudd.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies looks on in the fourth quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the National Championship of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament on April 06, 2025.</figcaption></figure>



“She’s more outgoing; I’m quieter. She’s a little more feisty; I’m a little more calm and even-keeled,” Fudd told Glamour. “It’s not always natural, but we can adapt and be what the other person needs in that moment.”



More than that, she revealed when she felt she would have a strong connection with the now Dallas Wings player.&nbsp;



“Almost kind of immediately… I feel like we really clicked when we met,” she admitted. Their on-court chemistry was remarkable, but you can see it goes deeper than that.&nbsp;

UConn’s Azzi Fudd shares details about her bond with girlfriend Paige Bueckers

UConn's Azzi Fudd shares details about her bond with girlfriend Paige Bueckers - Bolavip US

After posting a 22-14 (8-10 in conference) record in the 2024-25 NCAA season, the Arkansas Razorbacks are set to compete again in John Calipari’s second campaign. Following a 15-year tenure with the Kentucky Wildcats, Calipari took over the Razorbacks and led them to the Sweet 16 in the 2025 NCAA tournament.&nbsp;



Calipari will have five-star recruit Darius Acuff Jr., five-star recruit Meleek Thomas and four-star recruit Isaiah Sealy on the roster for the upcoming season, which is already an exciting prospect.&nbsp;



The legendary coach isn’t done yet and plans to make more moves to continue to stack up his team with talent. The Razorbacks could aim higher next year and challenge for the national championship.



A Hillsborough, North Carolina, native is set to play his senior year in Bradenton, Florida, while he decides his college future. The 66-year-old helmsman will be hosting an intriguing shooting guard prospect in the next couple of months, trying to lure him for the 2026-27 campaign.&nbsp;



<h2>John Calipari’s Arkansas sets a meeting with 4-star recruit&nbsp;</h2>



As things stand now, UConn, Indiana, Louisville and Virginia are all keeping tabs on four-star shooting guard Cole Cloer. The 2026 recruit will have an official visit to the university at the start of October, per Hogville.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250817_BUS_474079_John-Calipari1-1024x576_053487d2.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-382696" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130802/John-Calipari1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130802/John-Calipari1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130802/John-Calipari1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130802/John-Calipari1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130802/John-Calipari1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130802/John-Calipari1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130802/John-Calipari1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130802/John-Calipari1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Arkansas’ John Calipari</figcaption></figure>



Cloer, currently the No. 30 overall prospect in the 2026 position, has other visits programmed, including North Carolina State (Aug. 29), Florida (Sept. 6), Kentucky (Sept. 17), North Carolina (Oct.10) and Alabama (Oct. 17).



Arkansas already has a solid roster this season, but they can continue to add more firepower to the ranks for years to come, and they will most definitely be in the prey for more talent for the future.

John Calipari’s Arkansas to meet with top-tier shooting guard prospect

John Calipari's Arkansas to meet with top-tier shooting guard prospect - Bolavip US

Devin Booker is the heart and soul of the Phoenix Suns after 10 years with the NBA franchise. The shooting guard didn’t enter the competition as a highly touted prospect, but Booker proved his value with his offensive performances.



With an NBA Finals appearance in 2021, Booker has yet to return to the big stage. The Suns have gone through major changes since that season, losing Cam Payne, Chris Paul, Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, among others.&nbsp;



Booker has stayed with the team through thick and thin, as he continues to strive for a championship. The Suns could have selected a different player with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft if it weren’t for John Calipari.&nbsp;



The 66-year-old coach took Booker under his wing when he played for the Kentucky Wildcats, but his usage apparently “ruined” Booker’s draft stock.&nbsp;



<h2>John Calipari credited for Suns drafting Devin Booker&nbsp;</h2>



Luke Duffey of Valley of the Suns notes that Devin Booker, a potential franchise GOAT over Charles Barkley or Steve Nash, continues to build his legacy. Duffey notes that Sam Vecenie and Bryce Simon recently redrafted the 2015 draft class, which led to a major revelation about Calipari’s role in Booker’s selection.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250817_BUS_474080_booker-1024x576_1b915d2c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker" class="wp-image-440999" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14200959/booker-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14200959/booker-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14200959/booker-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14200959/booker-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14200959/booker-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14200959/booker-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14200959/booker-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14200959/booker.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns reacts during the first half against the Milwaukee Bucks at PHX Arena on March 24, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. </figcaption></figure>



Vecenie explained that Booker “didn’t play a lot” after Calipari decided to limit his minutes to 21.5 per game. He played 38 contests, but didn’t start in a single one of them.&nbsp;



Booker averaged 10.0 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game, shooting 47% from the field, 41.1% from deep and 82.8% from the free-throw line.



Players such as Jahlil Okafor, Mario Hezonja, Willie Cauley-Stein and Stanley Johnson were selected ahead of Booker, but the Suns are grateful that things transpired that way.

Suns fan site reveals how John Calipari helped Devin Booker get to Phoenix

Suns fan site reveals how John Calipari helped Devin Booker get to Phoenix - Bolavip US

The Duke Blue Devils prepare for the 2025-26 NCAA season, which will present new challenges. After losing in the 2025 Final Four to the Houston Cougars, Jon Scheyer’s team has renewed expectations, even though they suffered several key losses in the offseason.&nbsp;



With Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel in the NBA, the program recruited the Boozer twins to try to emulate and improve the performance from the last campaign.&nbsp;



While most things are on the right track, Scheyer still has some concerns to address ahead of the new season. Sophomore center Patrick Ngongba is dealing with a foot injury that forced him to wear a walking boot on his left foot and remain out of action.



<h2>Jon Scheyer shares update about Patrick Ngongba’s injury&nbsp;</h2>



Per Zach Ciavolella of Duke Wire, Jon Scheyer explained they are working to get the big man healthy before he sets foot on the court again.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250817_BUS_474078_Jon-Scheyer-3-1024x576_e5e95202.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jon Scheyer Duke Blue Devils HC" class="wp-image-370989" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06085018/Jon-Scheyer-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06085018/Jon-Scheyer-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06085018/Jon-Scheyer-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06085018/Jon-Scheyer-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06085018/Jon-Scheyer-3-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06085018/Jon-Scheyer-3-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06085018/Jon-Scheyer-3-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06085018/Jon-Scheyer-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach John Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils.</figcaption></figure>



“He’s had foot injuries in his high school career and we’re still getting him back to 100% health,” Scheyer said. “It’s not about anything that he’s done. It’s just about getting him to his full 100% productivity on the court, where he can move completely pain-free, and also where he can get back to being the level of player he can be. He’s gonna be a terrific player for us.”&nbsp;



Ngongba averaged 3.9 points and 2.7 rebounds per game in his freshman season. If healthy, he should have more chances to showcase his talents and help the Blue Devils compete the same way they did last season.

Jon Scheyer provides mayor injury update on Duke star

Jon Scheyer provides mayor injury update on Duke star - Bolavip US

JuJu Watkins will likely miss the entire 2025-26 NCAA season after she suffered an ACL injury against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the second round of the 2025 NCAA tournament.&nbsp;



Watkins led the team to a 29-3 record (17-1) before she suffered the season-ending injury, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.8 blocks per game, shooting 42.6% from the field, 32.5% from deep and 82% from the free-throw line.



Her impact can’t be felt only on the court, but in the recruitment department, too. Watkins’ young career has already inspired other prospects to join her at the Galen Center.&nbsp; While she won’t be out there with the rest of her teammates, Watkins has made a strong impact on them.&nbsp;



<h2>Saniyah Hall explains how JuJu Watkins prompted her to join USC&nbsp;</h2>



JuJu Watkins helped the women of Troy secure a major signing ahead of the 2025-26 season. Saniyah Hall, the No. 1 prospect in the 2026 class, explained to No Cap Space WBB the role Watkins played in her decision to join USC.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250817_BUS_474081_JuJu-Watkins-1-1024x576_899155e0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-299066" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>USC Trojans guard JuJu Watkins (12)</figcaption></figure>



“Juju’s such an amazing person,” Hall said. “She was an amazing coach at the time. She’s such a players’ coach, if she were ever to be like a real one. I just feel like we had so much fun there and we really bonded. That was part of me joining USC.”



She added that Lindsey Gottlieb’s presence also helped her make this decision, as they have a long-time relationship.



“I just think Coach Lindsey, you know, she’s been there for me ever since freshman year, always stayed in contact with me. Building that relationship since day one is very key,” she said.



Hall is a major addition to the Trojans, who appear to be closer to the national championship each year.&nbsp;

New USC star reveals how JuJu Watkins inspired her to join the program

New USC star reveals how JuJu Watkins inspired her to join the program - Bolavip US

Karl-Anthony Towns has become one of the best offensive centers in the NBA since he was selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Towns led a strong class that included future stars such as D’Angelo Russell, Kristaps Porzingis, Myles Turner and Devin Booker.



Towns has asserted his dominance over the years, although he’s been unable to win a championship so far. After nine years with the Timberwolves, he was traded to the New York Knicks last offseason.&nbsp;



While his offense is top-notch, his defense has been subjected to criticism since he first entered the league. He was considered a potential dual-threat in college, but Towns has failed to develop his defensive side.&nbsp;



His struggles with fouls remain a big topic around the league, but Eamon Cassels of Dunking with the Wolves credits John Calipari for “tricking” the NBA on Towns’ upside despite having a concerning foul rate in college.



<h2>John Calipari hid Karl-Anthony Towns’ defensive struggles, analyst says</h2>



Cassels writes that the 2.3 blocks per game he averaged in college didn’t translate into the NBA, and the 2.9 fouls in 21.1 minutes in college were a significant enough red flag for NBA scouts.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250817_BUS_474077_Karl-Anthony-Towns-1024x576_bcfc0647.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Karl-Anthony Towns in 2025" class="wp-image-399254" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/16141104/Karl-Anthony-Towns-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/16141104/Karl-Anthony-Towns-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/16141104/Karl-Anthony-Towns-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/16141104/Karl-Anthony-Towns-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/16141104/Karl-Anthony-Towns-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/16141104/Karl-Anthony-Towns-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/16141104/Karl-Anthony-Towns-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/16141104/Karl-Anthony-Towns.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks reacts after he drew the foul in the first half against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden on April 08, 2025.</figcaption></figure>



“Playing in John Calipari’s system and for an elite Kentucky squad certainly benefited Towns,” he wrote. “As a result, many people overlooked Towns’ defensive red flags and set expectations for him to be a two-way monster. Last season, opponents shot 65.7 percent at the rim against Towns. In addition to struggling as a rim protector, Towns isn’t very mobile and can be attacked on switches, especially given his poor discipline.”



Towns was still selected with the No. 1 overall pick 10 years ago and he remains a star in the NBA, even if he will never be known for his defensive expertise or toughness.

How John Calipari tricked the NBA about Karl-Anthony Towns

How John Calipari tricked the NBA about Karl-Anthony Towns - Bolavip US

Duke freshman Cameron Boozer is ready to start his college career with one of the most iconic programs in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> history. The talented forward comes from a family with a pedigree at Durham.



His father, Carlos Boozer, left a huge mark and set several records during his three-year tenure with the Blue Devils, which also included a national championship in 2001. Following Cooper Flagg’s departure to the NBA, Cameron Boozer and his twin brother Cayden are expected to take over the team and take it to compete for a second consecutive Final Four appearance.&nbsp;



He knows that the challenge will be hard, but Boozer isn’t running away from the grind. Fresh off winning the Gatorade National Player of the Year award, the freshman sent a strong message to Duke’s doubters.&nbsp;



<h2>Cameron Boozer put on a show in Duke’s open practice&nbsp;</h2>



As Jon Scheyer and Co. wrapped up their final summer practice, Cameron Boozer made sure to put on a show in front of the public. According to Kevin Connelly of Ball Durham, Boozer showcased all his abilities on the court.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250815_BUS_473330_Cameron-Boozer1-1024x576_14a8f040.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-382687" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130357/Cameron-Boozer1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130357/Cameron-Boozer1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130357/Cameron-Boozer1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130357/Cameron-Boozer1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130357/Cameron-Boozer1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130357/Cameron-Boozer1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130357/Cameron-Boozer1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130357/Cameron-Boozer1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cameron Boozer at the free-throw line</figcaption></figure>



“There wasn’t much that Boozer left in his bag on Tuesday night in Durham, showcasing his ability to get to the rim, scoring in the midrange, and flash a surprisingly efficient 3-point shot,” wrote Connelly.



Boozer believes his team is being overlooked, but he vowed to change people’s minds once they begin watching their games. There will be a lot of young prospects who will draw a lot of attention in the upcoming season, but Boozer is already making statements.&nbsp;

Cameron Boozer turns heads in open practice

Cameron Boozer turns heads in open practice - Bolavip US

Rick Pitino backed fellow legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski’s proposal to merge two major NCAA conferences to protect college basketball against the growing popularity of college football.&nbsp;



Pitino’s St. John’s ranked first in the Big East in 2024-25, posting an 18-2 record to beat Creighton, defending champions UConn and Marquette. Over the years, the idea of merging two conferences has appealed to some people, including one of the best coaches of all time.&nbsp;



Coach K believes that a merger between the Big East and the ACC would be beneficial for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>. Talking with college basketball analyst Jon Rothstein on Friday, Pitino raved about a potential “megaconference,” agreeing that college football has taken over.



<h2>Rick Pitino agrees with Coach K’s merger idea&nbsp;</h2>



“Well, I am in total agreement with Coach K,” Pitino said on Friday, via CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein. “See, when I started, John, before you were born, 51 years ago, football, college football and college basketball were on the same plane. The NFL and the NBA were on the same plane. Today, the NFL is here, the NBA is here. Not globally, I’m talking about the U.S.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250815_BUS_473331_Rick-Pitino1-1024x576_9a1d74d8.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-285146" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Rick Pitino</figcaption></figure>



“A bad college football game will surpass an NBA playoff game as far as viewership is concerned,” Pitino said. “If we want to survive basketball-wise with the ACC and the Big East and preserve the Dukes, the Carolinas, the Lobos of the world, and the Big East, combining it into a megaconference would be an awesome thing.”



Time will tell if this idea ever comes to fruition.&nbsp;It seems highly unlikely, but when two legendary coaches like them talk, everybody else should listen.

Rick Pitino agrees with Coach K’s wildest idea

Rick Pitino agrees with Coach K's wildest idea - Bolavip US

Dallas Mavericks fans and players welcomed Cooper Flagg with open arms as soon as the team drafted him with the No. 1 overall pick in June’s draft. Flagg entered the league after leading the Duke Blue Devils to a Final Four appearance in the 2025 NCAA tournament, although he couldn’t make it to the championship game.&nbsp;



In his first and only season at Durham, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists. He took Jon Scheyer’s team to a No. 1 ranking (35-4 record) and the ACC championship.&nbsp;



Flagg joins a team with established veterans who can only help improve his game. The best part of it is that he’ll share touches with fellow Duke alumni Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II.&nbsp;



<h2>Dereck Lively II is making Cooper Flagg his rookie&nbsp;</h2>



While speaking at the Mavs Academy Hoops Camp, Dereck Lively II explained he’s taken charge of mentoring and helping Cooper Flagg settle in. The veteran center recalled his experience becoming a pro at that age and how Flagg has responded to the new challenges.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250815_BUS_473329_GettyImages-2224950966-1-1024x576_0e676955.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-440876" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14165016/GettyImages-2224950966-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14165016/GettyImages-2224950966-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14165016/GettyImages-2224950966-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14165016/GettyImages-2224950966-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14165016/GettyImages-2224950966-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14165016/GettyImages-2224950966-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14165016/GettyImages-2224950966-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/14165016/GettyImages-2224950966-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks walks on the court during a break in the second half of a 2025 NBA Summer League game against the San Antonio Spurs</figcaption></figure>



“I’m making sure that he’s feeling as comfortable as possible, giving him any little detail or any little thing to give him,” Lively II said. “Because whenever I was in his position, I remember how frightened I was, and I was only 19 and he’s 18. He’s just been the same, just smiling, cracking joke kid as I’ve always known. I’m glad that he’s been able to still be a person and not having too much of the spotlight just rain on him.”



The Mavericks won’t have Kyrie Irving for a big chunk of the season due to an ACL injury, but Flagg surely can count on the 2016 NBA champion to mentor him, too.

Duke ties: Dereck Lively II takes Cooper Flagg under his wing

Duke ties: Dereck Lively II takes Cooper Flagg under his wing - Bolavip US

After 16 years, a national championship, and 416 wins, Rick Pitino left the Louisville Cardinals men’s basketball team following the 2016-17 NCAA season. Pitino won his second NCAA title with the Cardinals (first since 1996 when he was with Kentucky), leaving his mark on the program’s history.



He was fired eight years ago after an alleged “pay for play” scandal. He took over the Iona Gaels men’s basketball team from 2020 through 2023. The last two years, Pitino has led the St. John’s Red Storm to a 51-18 record, a regular season championship, conference tournament championship and the NCAA tournament.



While he continues his honored career, his exit from Louisville remains a topic of discussion around the competition.&nbsp;Talking with Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports on Monday, Pitino explained he had a lot of problems with the university.&nbsp;



<h2>Rick Pitino makes his thoughts clear on potential return to Louisville</h2>



“Well, I think I had a lot of problems with the University of Louisville, and there are certain things I’ll never forgive that they did,“ Pitino said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250815_BUS_473332_Rick-Pitino1-1024x576_04139c52.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-285146" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/27141354/Rick-Pitino1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Rick Pitino</figcaption></figure>



He clarified that it was more with the people in charge of making the decisions. He specifically said he condemned the treatment Tom Jurich, the Cardinals’ Athletic director, received after he was fired.&nbsp;



“But that had nothing to do with the present administration of the University of Louisville because the people that I was upset about are no longer board of trustees,” Pitino continued. “And I wasn’t really upset that they fired me. Anybody can be fired, I’m okay with that. It was the treatment they gave Tom Jurich. But just recently, they named the street outside of the practice facility Tom Jurich way. So all is forgiven, all is forgotten. I no longer even think the slightly bit negatively about the University of Louisville. I will go back in a New York minute.”



Pitino is doing an excellent job at St. John’s. It remains to be seen if he ever returns to the KFC Yum Center to coach the Cardinals.

Rick Pitino gets brutally honest on a potential return to Louisville

Rick Pitino gets brutally honest on a potential return to Louisville - Bolavip US

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