All articles tagged with #bench players
Boston Celtics reserve guard Svi Mykhailiuk scored a career-high 26 points in the team's final regular season game, marking his first double-digit scoring performance of the season. With the Celtics clinching the NBA's best record, Mykhailiuk and the bench players are gearing up for the playoffs, where they will continue to be ready to contribute when called upon.
The Virginia Cavaliers secured a hard-fought overtime victory against Boston College, advancing to the ACC Tournament semi-finals and bolstering their NCAA Tournament prospects. Despite a challenging offensive performance, the team's defensive prowess proved pivotal, with standout performances from Jordan Minor and bench players Andrew Rohde and Taine Murray. Reece Beekman and Isaac McKneely struggled shooting but delivered crucial baskets when it mattered. Virginia's ability to weather Boston College's hot start and capitalize on opportunities ultimately propelled them to the brink of the ACC Tournament finals.
The Cleveland Cavaliers face challenges with key players like Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley sidelined due to injuries, prompting the need for bench players like Sam Merrill, Georges Niang, and Dean Wade to step up. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff's leadership and ability to adapt to missing players are highlighted, with emphasis on the team's resilience and the need for players like Isaac Okoro to contribute offensively. The Cavs' recent victory over the Celtics showcased Dean Wade's offensive capabilities, while the team's ability to overcome adversity is attributed to the absence of NBA drama within the organization.
Illinois head basketball coach Brad Underwood made crucial adjustments and relied on the standout performance of Coleman Hawkins to secure a 95-85 win over Iowa, with Hawkins contributing 30 points, five assists, five turnovers, five steals, and two rebounds in 29 minutes. The bench also played a significant role, prompting Underwood to rethink his approach to bench usage for the remainder of the season. The team's success in the final stretch of the game highlighted the potential impact of well-rested key players, setting the stage for upcoming matchups against Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin.
No. 18 Oregon State's women's basketball team continues to showcase the depth of its bench, with Lily Hansford stepping up in a 64-60 win over Oregon. Coach Scott Rueck's unpredictable second-half lineup choices have kept opponents guessing, as both established stars and lesser-known players have made significant contributions throughout the season.
Heading into Week 14 of fantasy football, there are some tough lineup decisions to make. With low-scoring games expected and lopsided matchups, it's important to consider benching players who may not perform well. Players like Calvin Ridley, Evan Engram, Nico Collins, Tony Pollard, and Matthew Stafford may be risky starts due to poor matchups. On the other hand, players like Dameon Pierce, Jonathan Mingo, Isaiah Likely, and Gardner Minshew have great upside and could be worth starting.
The Kansas Jayhawks secured a third-place finish in the Maui Invitational with the help of their bench players, particularly freshman Jamari McDowell. McDowell, who played a career-high 27 minutes, made significant contributions on both ends of the court, impressing his teammates and coach. Despite not having eye-popping numbers, McDowell's defensive presence and timely plays were crucial in the victory over Tennessee. The improved performance of the bench players gives hope for the team's future success.
The California Summer League showcased potential bench players for the San Antonio Spurs, with players like Julian Champagnie, Malaki Branham, Blake Wesley, Dominick Marlow, and Sidy Cissoko showing promise. The Spurs' strong bench has been a key factor in their past success, and these young players could develop into a valuable unit as the season progresses. While it's still early, it's exciting to watch these players shine and see how they contribute to the team.
The Denver Nuggets have the potential to become a dynasty with their core players in their prime and signed for at least two more seasons, according to John Hollinger of The Athletic. The team has also handled the cap well by amassing young talent on affordable contracts. Reggie Jackson is happy to still be in the league despite not playing much since signing with the Nuggets in February. Denver's bench players have contributed to their championship run by not making waves about their playing time. Ismael Kamagate, the 46th pick by the Nuggets last year, is finalizing an agreement to play for EA7 Emporio Armani Milan next season.
Despite Devin Booker's impressive 47-point performance, the Phoenix Suns nearly lost Game 5 against the Los Angeles Clippers. The Suns were up by 20 points early in the fourth quarter but allowed the Clippers to come within three points late in the game. The Suns' bench players have been inconsistent throughout the series, and questions remain about their ability to close out games. The Suns will face the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference semifinals, and Booker and Kevin Durant will likely have to play heavy minutes for Phoenix to win a title.
Despite Devin Booker's 47-point performance, the Phoenix Suns nearly lost Game 5 against the Los Angeles Clippers, who were missing their two best players due to injury. The Suns' bench continues to be a concern, with inconsistent performances from players like Torrey Craig and Cameron Payne. The Suns will need their starters, including Booker and Deandre Ayton, to play heavy minutes in order to win a title. The Suns will face the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference semifinals.
The Phoenix Suns are finding their form in the NBA playoffs, with their bench players stepping up in recent games. Josh Okogie and Bismack Biyombo have been reliable contributors, with Biyombo's shot-blocking skills making him one of the best in franchise history. Damion Lee has also been a positive addition to the team, providing relief with his 3-point shooting threat. The Suns are currently leading the series against the Los Angeles Clippers 3-1, with Russell Westbrook expected to put up a strong fight in Game 5.
The Utah Jazz lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in their final game of the regular season, but the game was still meaningful for both teams. The Jazz played with real emotion, and the bench players got a chance to showcase their skills. The Jazz's contending timeline has been accelerated thanks to the performances of Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler, who exceeded expectations and look to be huge parts of the team's future. The Jazz have a few promising end-of-bench players, and the team's coach, Will Hardy, looks like a keeper.
The Milwaukee Bucks, who have clinched the 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, will face the Memphis Grizzlies in their regular season home finale. With all starters out, it's a chance for bench players to prove themselves. Memphis, with a 50-30 record, can get the 2 seed in the Western Conference with a win. Jae Crowder is a player to watch for the Bucks.