Hello. Those of you in the Western Hemisphere probably woke up to the news out of Las Vegas, where at least 50 people are dead and 200 injured after a mass shooting at a music festival. This is unspeakably tragic. It also comes as 3.4 million Puerto Ricans are experiencing a flat-out humanitarian crisis on their island. Meanwhile, families in Texas, Florida, and Mexico City continue to try to rebuild their lives.
What Russell Westbrook’s decision says about the NBA
We have that and more in Monday’s NBA newsletter.
Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports
This edition of our NBA newsletter will be rather brief and lack its usual joy. Honestly, it’s hard to muster up much of that these days.
The Lynx beat the Sparks to win Game 4 of the WNBA Finals on Sunday. We’re going to a deciding Game 5 on Wednesday. This has been a compelling, competitive series. These teams are so evenly matched.
Russell Westbrook signed his $205 million extension with the Thunder on Friday ... which happened to be Kevin Durant’s birthday. How Sam Presti won the summer for the Thunder. How losing Kevin Durant helped the Thunder keep Russell Westbrook. Westbrook told us he loved Oklahoma City all along. Why didn’t we believe him?
Kawhi Leonard, who has a history of quadriceps injuries, will miss preseason while recovering from such a malady.
After meeting with its franchise owners, the NBA sent its teams a memo suggesting ways to build unity within the community. That memo also reminded teams that there is a rule that requires players, coaches, and staff to stand during the national anthem. Here’s Michael Lee on why the rule should not be enforced.
Natalie Weiner on how viral dunkers can revolutionize women’s basketball.
Incredible story of two Nigerian boys who escaped a human trafficking/basketball recruitment ring with the help of local Paterson, N.J., teachers. Incredible story.
Compelling piece by Ramona Shelburne on Candace Parker.
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