Basketball

Toronto has been awarded the WNBA’s first franchise outside the United States, with the expansion team set to begin play in 2026. Larry Tanenbaum-led Kilmer Sports Ventures is paying $115 million for the team.

TORONTO — The WNBA isn't just coming to Toronto, it's coming to Canada.

Dallas Mavericks (50-32, fifth in the Western Conference) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (56-26, third in the Western Conference) Minneapolis; Friday, 8:30 p.m.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Few teams can match the size of the Minnesota Timberwolves with their trio of towers in NBA Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert, four-time All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns and Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Luka Doncic led a strong finish for the Dallas Mavericks , swishing crucial shots down the stretch, drawing a couple of fouls and even playing strong defense.

NEW YORK (AP-CP) — Canadian basketball star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder is a unanimous selection to the All-NBA first team.

BOSTON (AP) — There was a dominant refrain ringing in Jayson Tatum’s head following the Celtics’ comeback 133-128 overtime win over the Pacers to open the Eastern Conference finals. “Don’t relax,” he said.

NEW YORK (AP) — Fueled by its sensational rookie class of Caitlin Clark , Angel Reese and Cameron Brink, the WNBA had a huge first week in terms of attendance, ratings and digital media.

NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Brunson has had surgery to repair the broken left hand he sustained while the New York Knicks were losing Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Indiana Pacers (47-35, sixth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Boston Celtics (64-18, first in the Eastern Conference) Boston; Thursday, 8 p.m. EDT BETMGM SPORTSBOOK : LINE Celtics -8.5; over/under is 224.