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Deadspin | Timberwolves’ reserves take spotlight in final game, beating Pelicans Apr 10, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Joan Beringer (19) dunks the ball during the first quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images Rookie big man Joan Beringer scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, and the Minnesota Timberwolves held on for a 132-126 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night in Minneapolis. Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 26 points for Minnesota (49-33), which relied on young players and reserves in its final game of the regular season. Zyon Pullin scored 19 points off the bench, and Joe Ingles capitalized on a rare start to notch a double-double with 15 points and 10 assists. Jeremiah Fears scored 36 points on 12-for-29 shooting to lead New Orleans (26-56). Derik Queen finished with 30 points and 22 rebounds, and Micah Peavy scored 21 points. The Timberwolves already were locked into the No. 6 playoff seed in the Western Conference. They learned they will face the Denver Nuggets, who secured the No. 3 seed by beating the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night. The Timberwolves led by double digits late in the game and held on for the win. Beringer made a pair of free throws to put Minnesota on top 124-114 with 1:21 to go. Fears followed by converting a three-point play and trimming the Pelicans’ deficit to seven points with 1:15 left. Queen made a layup on New Orleans’ next possession to pull the team within 125-119 with 55.2 seconds left. But the Timberwolves held firm thanks to Shannon’s free-throw shooting; he made 7 of 8 in the final minute. Minnesota led 73-59 at the half. Julian Phillips made an alley-oop dunk off a feed from Jaylen Clark in the closing moments of the first half. Both teams played without key starters in the regular-season finale. The Timberwolves sat out top scorer Anthony Edwards, who dealt with right knee inflammation in the final few weeks of the regular season. They also played without Jaden McDaniels (left knee injury maintenance), Rudy Gobert (rest), Julius Randle (right hand injury maintenance), Naz Reid (right shoulder injury maintenance) and Ayo Dosunmu (right calf injury maintenance). New Orleans rested Herbert Jones and Saddiq Bey. They also did not have veteran big man Zion Williamson, who missed the regular-season finale because of right knee injury management. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Timberwolves #reserves #spotlight #final #game #beating #Pelicans

Deadspin | Timberwolves’ reserves take spotlight in final game, beating Pelicans
Deadspin | Timberwolves’ reserves take spotlight in final game, beating Pelicans Apr 10, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Joan Beringer (19) dunks the ball during the first quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images Rookie big man Joan Beringer scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, and the Minnesota Timberwolves held on for a 132-126 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night in Minneapolis. Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 26 points for Minnesota (49-33), which relied on young players and reserves in its final game of the regular season. Zyon Pullin scored 19 points off the bench, and Joe Ingles capitalized on a rare start to notch a double-double with 15 points and 10 assists. Jeremiah Fears scored 36 points on 12-for-29 shooting to lead New Orleans (26-56). Derik Queen finished with 30 points and 22 rebounds, and Micah Peavy scored 21 points. The Timberwolves already were locked into the No. 6 playoff seed in the Western Conference. They learned they will face the Denver Nuggets, who secured the No. 3 seed by beating the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night. The Timberwolves led by double digits late in the game and held on for the win. Beringer made a pair of free throws to put Minnesota on top 124-114 with 1:21 to go. Fears followed by converting a three-point play and trimming the Pelicans’ deficit to seven points with 1:15 left. Queen made a layup on New Orleans’ next possession to pull the team within 125-119 with 55.2 seconds left. But the Timberwolves held firm thanks to Shannon’s free-throw shooting; he made 7 of 8 in the final minute. Minnesota led 73-59 at the half. Julian Phillips made an alley-oop dunk off a feed from Jaylen Clark in the closing moments of the first half. Both teams played without key starters in the regular-season finale. The Timberwolves sat out top scorer Anthony Edwards, who dealt with right knee inflammation in the final few weeks of the regular season. They also played without Jaden McDaniels (left knee injury maintenance), Rudy Gobert (rest), Julius Randle (right hand injury maintenance), Naz Reid (right shoulder injury maintenance) and Ayo Dosunmu (right calf injury maintenance). New Orleans rested Herbert Jones and Saddiq Bey. They also did not have veteran big man Zion Williamson, who missed the regular-season finale because of right knee injury management. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Timberwolves #reserves #spotlight #final #game #beating #PelicansApr 10, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Joan Beringer (19) dunks the ball during the first quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Rookie big man Joan Beringer scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, and the Minnesota Timberwolves held on for a 132-126 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night in Minneapolis.

Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 26 points for Minnesota (49-33), which relied on young players and reserves in its final game of the regular season. Zyon Pullin scored 19 points off the bench, and Joe Ingles capitalized on a rare start to notch a double-double with 15 points and 10 assists.

Jeremiah Fears scored 36 points on 12-for-29 shooting to lead New Orleans (26-56). Derik Queen finished with 30 points and 22 rebounds, and Micah Peavy scored 21 points.

The Timberwolves already were locked into the No. 6 playoff seed in the Western Conference. They learned they will face the Denver Nuggets, who secured the No. 3 seed by beating the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night.

The Timberwolves led by double digits late in the game and held on for the win.


Beringer made a pair of free throws to put Minnesota on top 124-114 with 1:21 to go. Fears followed by converting a three-point play and trimming the Pelicans’ deficit to seven points with 1:15 left.

Queen made a layup on New Orleans’ next possession to pull the team within 125-119 with 55.2 seconds left. But the Timberwolves held firm thanks to Shannon’s free-throw shooting; he made 7 of 8 in the final minute.

Minnesota led 73-59 at the half. Julian Phillips made an alley-oop dunk off a feed from Jaylen Clark in the closing moments of the first half.

Both teams played without key starters in the regular-season finale.

The Timberwolves sat out top scorer Anthony Edwards, who dealt with right knee inflammation in the final few weeks of the regular season. They also played without Jaden McDaniels (left knee injury maintenance), Rudy Gobert (rest), Julius Randle (right hand injury maintenance), Naz Reid (right shoulder injury maintenance) and Ayo Dosunmu (right calf injury maintenance).

New Orleans rested Herbert Jones and Saddiq Bey. They also did not have veteran big man Zion Williamson, who missed the regular-season finale because of right knee injury management.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Timberwolves #reserves #spotlight #final #game #beating #Pelicans

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Apr 10, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Joan Beringer (19) dunks the ball during the first quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Rookie big man Joan Beringer scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, and the Minnesota Timberwolves held on for a 132-126 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night in Minneapolis.

Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 26 points for Minnesota (49-33), which relied on young players and reserves in its final game of the regular season. Zyon Pullin scored 19 points off the bench, and Joe Ingles capitalized on a rare start to notch a double-double with 15 points and 10 assists.

Jeremiah Fears scored 36 points on 12-for-29 shooting to lead New Orleans (26-56). Derik Queen finished with 30 points and 22 rebounds, and Micah Peavy scored 21 points.

The Timberwolves already were locked into the No. 6 playoff seed in the Western Conference. They learned they will face the Denver Nuggets, who secured the No. 3 seed by beating the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night.

The Timberwolves led by double digits late in the game and held on for the win.

Beringer made a pair of free throws to put Minnesota on top 124-114 with 1:21 to go. Fears followed by converting a three-point play and trimming the Pelicans’ deficit to seven points with 1:15 left.

Queen made a layup on New Orleans’ next possession to pull the team within 125-119 with 55.2 seconds left. But the Timberwolves held firm thanks to Shannon’s free-throw shooting; he made 7 of 8 in the final minute.

Minnesota led 73-59 at the half. Julian Phillips made an alley-oop dunk off a feed from Jaylen Clark in the closing moments of the first half.

Both teams played without key starters in the regular-season finale.

The Timberwolves sat out top scorer Anthony Edwards, who dealt with right knee inflammation in the final few weeks of the regular season. They also played without Jaden McDaniels (left knee injury maintenance), Rudy Gobert (rest), Julius Randle (right hand injury maintenance), Naz Reid (right shoulder injury maintenance) and Ayo Dosunmu (right calf injury maintenance).

New Orleans rested Herbert Jones and Saddiq Bey. They also did not have veteran big man Zion Williamson, who missed the regular-season finale because of right knee injury management.

–Field Level Media

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MLB Pitcher Props Today: Best Bets for June 3rd | Deadspin.com May 29, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Logan Webb (62) delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images OK, tough night last night. We’ve done our best with pitcher props lately so let’s stick to that for today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 30-27-1, +0.41 UnitsGiants at BrewersLogan Webb Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-140 bet365)I was semi-temped to go with Webb’s Over 5.5 K prop, but I like this one better. At his best, Webb is an innings eating machine. He’s not having his best of seasons by any stretch, in fact it’s basically his worst since 2020 as he’s got an ugly 4.82 ERA and 1.39 WHIP. But he still generally gives the Giants length as he’s gone at least 6 innings in 6 of his 9 starts. His three “fails” are the issue here as one was an Opening Night battering by the Yankees. I’ll blame Netflix for that one. The other two were his last two starts however. But he was injured, which may have led to a lousy 4 IP, 6 ER outing on May 5th vs. the Padres then a somewhat abbreviated 4.1 IP 86 pitch return on May 29th vs. the Rockies in Coors. He encouragingly pitched well as he allowed just 1 ER on 3 hits and 3 BB’s in a tough venue. I’m banking on Webb going to back to his usual workload tonight.The opponent is tough tonight as the pesky Brewers give everyone fits. But they don’t whiff a bunch with just a 20.2% K% and they have a league worst 41 homers. Webb for his part has yielded just 4 bombs to the 228 batters he’s faced. So let’s bet on him to keep the game in control and get through 6. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Mets at MarinersFreddy Peralta Over 5.5 Strikeouts (-136 FanDuel)It’s a bit of the opposite situation here as Peralta hasn’t given the Mets length at all this year, but he’s at least whiffing 9.27 batters per 9 IP. And the Mariners’ 23.7% K% at home is the 4th worst in MLB. And we might get an added edge on the margins. Josh Naylor and his elite low 13.4% K% missed the last game and a half with back spasms that seemed to happen on a home run trot on Monday. His replacement would be Patrick Wisdom. He’s got major pop but he also has a 42.1% K% in his 19 PA’s this year, and a 36.7% K% for his career. That’s incidentally why a guy with a 15% career Barrel% has never stuck in the majors. I like Peralta to get to his mark anyways and this would just be an added boost. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #MLB #Pitcher #Props #Today #Bets #June #3rd #Deadspin.comMay 29, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Logan Webb (62) delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

OK, tough night last night. We’ve done our best with pitcher props lately so let’s stick to that for today’s MLB Picks.

Season Record 30-27-1, +0.41 Units

Giants at Brewers

Logan Webb Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-140 bet365)

I was semi-temped to go with Webb’s Over 5.5 K prop, but I like this one better. At his best, Webb is an innings eating machine. He’s not having his best of seasons by any stretch, in fact it’s basically his worst since 2020 as he’s got an ugly 4.82 ERA and 1.39 WHIP. But he still generally gives the Giants length as he’s gone at least 6 innings in 6 of his 9 starts. His three “fails” are the issue here as one was an Opening Night battering by the Yankees. I’ll blame Netflix for that one. The other two were his last two starts however. But he was injured, which may have led to a lousy 4 IP, 6 ER outing on May 5th vs. the Padres then a somewhat abbreviated 4.1 IP 86 pitch return on May 29th vs. the Rockies in Coors. He encouragingly pitched well as he allowed just 1 ER on 3 hits and 3 BB’s in a tough venue. I’m banking on Webb going to back to his usual workload tonight.

The opponent is tough tonight as the pesky Brewers give everyone fits. But they don’t whiff a bunch with just a 20.2% K% and they have a league worst 41 homers. Webb for his part has yielded just 4 bombs to the 228 batters he’s faced. So let’s bet on him to keep the game in control and get through 6.

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Channel debug: betting

Mets at Mariners

Freddy Peralta Over 5.5 Strikeouts (-136 FanDuel)

It’s a bit of the opposite situation here as Peralta hasn’t given the Mets length at all this year, but he’s at least whiffing 9.27 batters per 9 IP. And the Mariners’ 23.7% K% at home is the 4th worst in MLB. And we might get an added edge on the margins. Josh Naylor and his elite low 13.4% K% missed the last game and a half with back spasms that seemed to happen on a home run trot on Monday. His replacement would be Patrick Wisdom. He’s got major pop but he also has a 42.1% K% in his 19 PA’s this year, and a 36.7% K% for his career. That’s incidentally why a guy with a 15% career Barrel% has never stuck in the majors. I like Peralta to get to his mark anyways and this would just be an added boost.

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Channel debug: betting

#MLB #Pitcher #Props #Today #Bets #June #3rd #Deadspin.com">MLB Pitcher Props Today: Best Bets for June 3rd | Deadspin.com May 29, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Logan Webb (62) delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images OK, tough night last night. We’ve done our best with pitcher props lately so let’s stick to that for today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 30-27-1, +0.41 UnitsGiants at BrewersLogan Webb Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-140 bet365)I was semi-temped to go with Webb’s Over 5.5 K prop, but I like this one better. At his best, Webb is an innings eating machine. He’s not having his best of seasons by any stretch, in fact it’s basically his worst since 2020 as he’s got an ugly 4.82 ERA and 1.39 WHIP. But he still generally gives the Giants length as he’s gone at least 6 innings in 6 of his 9 starts. His three “fails” are the issue here as one was an Opening Night battering by the Yankees. I’ll blame Netflix for that one. The other two were his last two starts however. But he was injured, which may have led to a lousy 4 IP, 6 ER outing on May 5th vs. the Padres then a somewhat abbreviated 4.1 IP 86 pitch return on May 29th vs. the Rockies in Coors. He encouragingly pitched well as he allowed just 1 ER on 3 hits and 3 BB’s in a tough venue. I’m banking on Webb going to back to his usual workload tonight.The opponent is tough tonight as the pesky Brewers give everyone fits. But they don’t whiff a bunch with just a 20.2% K% and they have a league worst 41 homers. Webb for his part has yielded just 4 bombs to the 228 batters he’s faced. So let’s bet on him to keep the game in control and get through 6. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Mets at MarinersFreddy Peralta Over 5.5 Strikeouts (-136 FanDuel)It’s a bit of the opposite situation here as Peralta hasn’t given the Mets length at all this year, but he’s at least whiffing 9.27 batters per 9 IP. And the Mariners’ 23.7% K% at home is the 4th worst in MLB. And we might get an added edge on the margins. Josh Naylor and his elite low 13.4% K% missed the last game and a half with back spasms that seemed to happen on a home run trot on Monday. His replacement would be Patrick Wisdom. He’s got major pop but he also has a 42.1% K% in his 19 PA’s this year, and a 36.7% K% for his career. That’s incidentally why a guy with a 15% career Barrel% has never stuck in the majors. I like Peralta to get to his mark anyways and this would just be an added boost. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #MLB #Pitcher #Props #Today #Bets #June #3rd #Deadspin.com

the Giants length as he’s gone at least 6 innings in 6 of his 9 starts. His three “fails” are the issue here as one was an Opening Night battering by the Yankees. I’ll blame Netflix for that one. The other two were his last two starts however. But he was injured, which may have led to a lousy 4 IP, 6 ER outing on May 5th vs. the Padres then a somewhat abbreviated 4.1 IP 86 pitch return on May 29th vs. the Rockies in Coors. He encouragingly pitched well as he allowed just 1 ER on 3 hits and 3 BB’s in a tough venue. I’m banking on Webb going to back to his usual workload tonight.

The opponent is tough tonight as the pesky Brewers give everyone fits. But they don’t whiff a bunch with just a 20.2% K% and they have a league worst 41 homers. Webb for his part has yielded just 4 bombs to the 228 batters he’s faced. So let’s bet on him to keep the game in control and get through 6.

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Channel debug: betting

Mets at Mariners

Freddy Peralta Over 5.5 Strikeouts (-136 FanDuel)

It’s a bit of the opposite situation here as Peralta hasn’t given the Mets length at all this year, but he’s at least whiffing 9.27 batters per 9 IP. And the Mariners’ 23.7% K% at home is the 4th worst in MLB. And we might get an added edge on the margins. Josh Naylor and his elite low 13.4% K% missed the last game and a half with back spasms that seemed to happen on a home run trot on Monday. His replacement would be Patrick Wisdom. He’s got major pop but he also has a 42.1% K% in his 19 PA’s this year, and a 36.7% K% for his career. That’s incidentally why a guy with a 15% career Barrel% has never stuck in the majors. I like Peralta to get to his mark anyways and this would just be an added boost.

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Channel debug: betting

#MLB #Pitcher #Props #Today #Bets #June #3rd #Deadspin.com">MLB Pitcher Props Today: Best Bets for June 3rd | Deadspin.com
MLB Pitcher Props Today: Best Bets for June 3rd | Deadspin.com May 29, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Logan Webb (62) delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images OK, tough night last night. We’ve done our best with pitcher props lately so let’s stick to that for today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 30-27-1, +0.41 UnitsGiants at BrewersLogan Webb Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-140 bet365)I was semi-temped to go with Webb’s Over 5.5 K prop, but I like this one better. At his best, Webb is an innings eating machine. He’s not having his best of seasons by any stretch, in fact it’s basically his worst since 2020 as he’s got an ugly 4.82 ERA and 1.39 WHIP. But he still generally gives the Giants length as he’s gone at least 6 innings in 6 of his 9 starts. His three “fails” are the issue here as one was an Opening Night battering by the Yankees. I’ll blame Netflix for that one. The other two were his last two starts however. But he was injured, which may have led to a lousy 4 IP, 6 ER outing on May 5th vs. the Padres then a somewhat abbreviated 4.1 IP 86 pitch return on May 29th vs. the Rockies in Coors. He encouragingly pitched well as he allowed just 1 ER on 3 hits and 3 BB’s in a tough venue. I’m banking on Webb going to back to his usual workload tonight.The opponent is tough tonight as the pesky Brewers give everyone fits. But they don’t whiff a bunch with just a 20.2% K% and they have a league worst 41 homers. Webb for his part has yielded just 4 bombs to the 228 batters he’s faced. So let’s bet on him to keep the game in control and get through 6. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Mets at MarinersFreddy Peralta Over 5.5 Strikeouts (-136 FanDuel)It’s a bit of the opposite situation here as Peralta hasn’t given the Mets length at all this year, but he’s at least whiffing 9.27 batters per 9 IP. And the Mariners’ 23.7% K% at home is the 4th worst in MLB. And we might get an added edge on the margins. Josh Naylor and his elite low 13.4% K% missed the last game and a half with back spasms that seemed to happen on a home run trot on Monday. His replacement would be Patrick Wisdom. He’s got major pop but he also has a 42.1% K% in his 19 PA’s this year, and a 36.7% K% for his career. That’s incidentally why a guy with a 15% career Barrel% has never stuck in the majors. I like Peralta to get to his mark anyways and this would just be an added boost. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #MLB #Pitcher #Props #Today #Bets #June #3rd #Deadspin.comMay 29, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Logan Webb (62) delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

OK, tough night last night. We’ve done our best with pitcher props lately so let’s stick to that for today’s MLB Picks.

Season Record 30-27-1, +0.41 Units

Giants at Brewers

Logan Webb Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-140 bet365)

I was semi-temped to go with Webb’s Over 5.5 K prop, but I like this one better. At his best, Webb is an innings eating machine. He’s not having his best of seasons by any stretch, in fact it’s basically his worst since 2020 as he’s got an ugly 4.82 ERA and 1.39 WHIP. But he still generally gives the Giants length as he’s gone at least 6 innings in 6 of his 9 starts. His three “fails” are the issue here as one was an Opening Night battering by the Yankees. I’ll blame Netflix for that one. The other two were his last two starts however. But he was injured, which may have led to a lousy 4 IP, 6 ER outing on May 5th vs. the Padres then a somewhat abbreviated 4.1 IP 86 pitch return on May 29th vs. the Rockies in Coors. He encouragingly pitched well as he allowed just 1 ER on 3 hits and 3 BB’s in a tough venue. I’m banking on Webb going to back to his usual workload tonight.

The opponent is tough tonight as the pesky Brewers give everyone fits. But they don’t whiff a bunch with just a 20.2% K% and they have a league worst 41 homers. Webb for his part has yielded just 4 bombs to the 228 batters he’s faced. So let’s bet on him to keep the game in control and get through 6.

Our Current Best Offers

Channel debug: betting

Mets at Mariners

Freddy Peralta Over 5.5 Strikeouts (-136 FanDuel)

It’s a bit of the opposite situation here as Peralta hasn’t given the Mets length at all this year, but he’s at least whiffing 9.27 batters per 9 IP. And the Mariners’ 23.7% K% at home is the 4th worst in MLB. And we might get an added edge on the margins. Josh Naylor and his elite low 13.4% K% missed the last game and a half with back spasms that seemed to happen on a home run trot on Monday. His replacement would be Patrick Wisdom. He’s got major pop but he also has a 42.1% K% in his 19 PA’s this year, and a 36.7% K% for his career. That’s incidentally why a guy with a 15% career Barrel% has never stuck in the majors. I like Peralta to get to his mark anyways and this would just be an added boost.

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Channel debug: betting

#MLB #Pitcher #Props #Today #Bets #June #3rd #Deadspin.com

Alex Sarama was relatively unknown when the Portland Fire announced he’d be their first-ever head coach. But, on Wednesday, when the WNBA announced that Sarama was named Coach of the Month, it came as no surprise. Sarama led the Fire to a 6-4 record in May and several improbable victories, while making a name for himself in broad basketball circles.

At just 30 years old, Sarama was an assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers and became the director of player development.

He joined NBA Europe in 2020, became a Paris Basketball player improvement specialist in 2022, and was the director of methodology for the British Basketball League’s London Lions in 2023. In the 2023-2024 season, Sarama was an assistant coach for the Rip City Remix, the Portland Trail Blazers’ G League affiliate. Then, in 2024, he became an assistant for the Cavaliers.

Sarama is unique in that he is an advocate of the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) to skill acquisition and practice design, a methodology that emphasises decision-making, adaptability, and game-representative learning environments rather than isolated and repetitive drills.

Sarama has cancelled morning shootarounds, had Fire players practice with just socks, and simulated specific drills with different constraints to emulate late-game scenarios.

The Fire are 6-5 and owners of the league’s 8th-best record, despite being one of two WNBA expansion teams. In May, they went 6-4, accruing two wins over the New York Liberty and a win over the Indiana Fever, among other star-studded squads.

On the court, Portland has been led by Carla Leite, who is averaging 15.2 points and 5.2 assists per game, both team-highs.

Bridget Carleton, selected No. 1 overall in the WNBA’s expansion draft, is averaging 14.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game, while Emily Englster has been the top shot blocker in the league, averaging 2.3 blocks per game. Engstler is also averaging 9.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 assists per game. And, Sarah Ashlee Barker has been huge off the bench, averaging 10 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.

In a video shared by the Fire, Sarama credited the players and his staff for his first-ever Coach of the Month honor.

“This isn’t possible without incredible players. This is really because of you guys, number one,” he said. “Everything we’ve asked you to do, you guys have done times a thousand. I couldn’t be more proud to coach you guys. This is going to be such a fun ride.”

“Secondly, it’s staff of the month. Not coach of the month. That’s everyone. Front office, performance, the incredible coaching staff we have. It’s every single one of us here.”

#WNBA #named #Coach #Month #welldeserved">The WNBA just named a Coach of the Month, and it’s well-deserved Alex Sarama was relatively unknown when the Portland Fire announced he’d be their first-ever head coach. But, on Wednesday, when the WNBA announced that Sarama was named Coach of the Month, it came as no surprise. Sarama led the Fire to a 6-4 record in May and several improbable victories, while making a name for himself in broad basketball circles.At just 30 years old, Sarama was an assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers and became the director of player development.He joined NBA Europe in 2020, became a Paris Basketball player improvement specialist in 2022, and was the director of methodology for the British Basketball League’s London Lions in 2023. In the 2023-2024 season, Sarama was an assistant coach for the Rip City Remix, the Portland Trail Blazers’ G League affiliate. Then, in 2024, he became an assistant for the Cavaliers.Sarama is unique in that he is an advocate of the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) to skill acquisition and practice design, a methodology that emphasises decision-making, adaptability, and game-representative learning environments rather than isolated and repetitive drills.Sarama has cancelled morning shootarounds, had Fire players practice with just socks, and simulated specific drills with different constraints to emulate late-game scenarios.The Fire are 6-5 and owners of the league’s 8th-best record, despite being one of two WNBA expansion teams. In May, they went 6-4, accruing two wins over the New York Liberty and a win over the Indiana Fever, among other star-studded squads.On the court, Portland has been led by Carla Leite, who is averaging 15.2 points and 5.2 assists per game, both team-highs.Bridget Carleton, selected No. 1 overall in the WNBA’s expansion draft, is averaging 14.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game, while Emily Englster has been the top shot blocker in the league, averaging 2.3 blocks per game. Engstler is also averaging 9.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 assists per game. And, Sarah Ashlee Barker has been huge off the bench, averaging 10 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.In a video shared by the Fire, Sarama credited the players and his staff for his first-ever Coach of the Month honor.“This isn’t possible without incredible players. This is really because of you guys, number one,” he said. “Everything we’ve asked you to do, you guys have done times a thousand. I couldn’t be more proud to coach you guys. This is going to be such a fun ride.”“Secondly, it’s staff of the month. Not coach of the month. That’s everyone. Front office, performance, the incredible coaching staff we have. It’s every single one of us here.” #WNBA #named #Coach #Month #welldeserved

Five-time champion India booked its place in the final of the SAFF Women’s Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 win over a resolute Bhutan in the second semifinal on Wednesday.

India, which found the winner through Sanfida Nongrum in the 60th minute, will meet defending champion Bangladesh in the title clash at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Saturday.

Having scored 14 goals in two group-stage matches, the host was expected to dominate, but Bhutan once again showed the defensive discipline that had taken it to a third successive semifinal appearance.

Ranked 69th in the FIFA rankings, India controlled possession for long periods but found it difficult to break down Bhutan’s compact backline in a goalless first half.

The Blue Tigresses created chances through Karishma, Soumya Guguloth and Aveka Singh, but poor finishing and alert goalkeeping kept the scores level at the break.

Bhutan, meanwhile, remained a threat on the counterattack and squandered a couple of promising opportunities of its own.

India finally found the breakthrough when Sanfida scored after sustained pressure, giving the host the lead it had been searching for throughout the contest.

Coach Crispin Chhetri then introduced experienced attackers, including Manisha Kalyan and Pyari Xaxa, as India looked to put the game beyond Bhutan. However, Bhutan refused to back down and continued to test the Indian defence on the break.

The host created several openings in the closing stages but was unable to add to its tally.

ALSO READ: India vs Bhutan as it happened, highlights and facts

Bhutan, despite its determination, lacked the finishing touch required to force extra time as India held on for a narrow victory.

The Blue Tigresses are now one win away from reclaiming the title it last won in 2019.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh beat Nepal 2-1 in the first semifinal to reach a third consecutive SAFF Women’s Championship final after substitute Sagorika scored a stoppage-time winner.

Bangladesh won the previous two editions, held in 2022 and 2024.

Published on Jun 03, 2026

#SAFF #Womens #Championship #India #scrapes #Bhutan #face #Bangladesh #title">SAFF Women’s Championship 2026: India scrapes past Bhutan 1-0, to face Bangladesh for title Five-time champion India booked its place in the final of the SAFF Women’s Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 win over a resolute Bhutan in the second semifinal on Wednesday.India, which found the winner through Sanfida Nongrum in the 60th minute, will meet defending champion Bangladesh in the title clash at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Saturday.Having scored 14 goals in two group-stage matches, the host was expected to dominate, but Bhutan once again showed the defensive discipline that had taken it to a third successive semifinal appearance.Ranked 69th in the FIFA rankings, India controlled possession for long periods but found it difficult to break down Bhutan’s compact backline in a goalless first half.The Blue Tigresses created chances through Karishma, Soumya Guguloth and Aveka Singh, but poor finishing and alert goalkeeping kept the scores level at the break.Bhutan, meanwhile, remained a threat on the counterattack and squandered a couple of promising opportunities of its own.India finally found the breakthrough when Sanfida scored after sustained pressure, giving the host the lead it had been searching for throughout the contest.Coach Crispin Chhetri then introduced experienced attackers, including Manisha Kalyan and Pyari Xaxa, as India looked to put the game beyond Bhutan. However, Bhutan refused to back down and continued to test the Indian defence on the break.The host created several openings in the closing stages but was unable to add to its tally.ALSO READ: India vs Bhutan as it happened, highlights and factsBhutan, despite its determination, lacked the finishing touch required to force extra time as India held on for a narrow victory.The Blue Tigresses are now one win away from reclaiming the title it last won in 2019.Earlier in the day, Bangladesh beat Nepal 2-1 in the first semifinal to reach a third consecutive SAFF Women’s Championship final after substitute Sagorika scored a stoppage-time winner.Bangladesh won the previous two editions, held in 2022 and 2024.Published on Jun 03, 2026 #SAFF #Womens #Championship #India #scrapes #Bhutan #face #Bangladesh #title

India vs Bhutan as it happened, highlights and facts

Bhutan, despite its determination, lacked the finishing touch required to force extra time as India held on for a narrow victory.

The Blue Tigresses are now one win away from reclaiming the title it last won in 2019.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh beat Nepal 2-1 in the first semifinal to reach a third consecutive SAFF Women’s Championship final after substitute Sagorika scored a stoppage-time winner.

Bangladesh won the previous two editions, held in 2022 and 2024.

Published on Jun 03, 2026

#SAFF #Womens #Championship #India #scrapes #Bhutan #face #Bangladesh #title">SAFF Women’s Championship 2026: India scrapes past Bhutan 1-0, to face Bangladesh for title

Five-time champion India booked its place in the final of the SAFF Women’s Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 win over a resolute Bhutan in the second semifinal on Wednesday.

India, which found the winner through Sanfida Nongrum in the 60th minute, will meet defending champion Bangladesh in the title clash at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Saturday.

Having scored 14 goals in two group-stage matches, the host was expected to dominate, but Bhutan once again showed the defensive discipline that had taken it to a third successive semifinal appearance.

Ranked 69th in the FIFA rankings, India controlled possession for long periods but found it difficult to break down Bhutan’s compact backline in a goalless first half.

The Blue Tigresses created chances through Karishma, Soumya Guguloth and Aveka Singh, but poor finishing and alert goalkeeping kept the scores level at the break.

Bhutan, meanwhile, remained a threat on the counterattack and squandered a couple of promising opportunities of its own.

India finally found the breakthrough when Sanfida scored after sustained pressure, giving the host the lead it had been searching for throughout the contest.

Coach Crispin Chhetri then introduced experienced attackers, including Manisha Kalyan and Pyari Xaxa, as India looked to put the game beyond Bhutan. However, Bhutan refused to back down and continued to test the Indian defence on the break.

The host created several openings in the closing stages but was unable to add to its tally.

ALSO READ: India vs Bhutan as it happened, highlights and facts

Bhutan, despite its determination, lacked the finishing touch required to force extra time as India held on for a narrow victory.

The Blue Tigresses are now one win away from reclaiming the title it last won in 2019.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh beat Nepal 2-1 in the first semifinal to reach a third consecutive SAFF Women’s Championship final after substitute Sagorika scored a stoppage-time winner.

Bangladesh won the previous two editions, held in 2022 and 2024.

Published on Jun 03, 2026

#SAFF #Womens #Championship #India #scrapes #Bhutan #face #Bangladesh #title

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