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Pacers’ Siakam smokes Knicks for playoff high in Game 2; Hart AWOL

NEW YORK — The Indiana Pacers are going home with a commanding 2-0 lead in the NBA’s Eastern Conference finals after again silencing the Madison Square Garden crowd with a 114-109 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday.

Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 39 points as all five Indiana starters scored in double figures. The Knicks will try to come back from an 0-2 deficit to make it to the Finals. These very Pacers pulled off the trick last season against the Knicks in the semifinal round and won Game 7 in New York to advance to the Eastern Conference finals.

Winners and losers from Pacers vs. Knicks Game 2

WINNERS

Pascal Siakam

The Pacers’ power forward came out strong, scoring 23 points in the first half to handle the early scoring load as Indiana took an early 10-point lead. He finished with 39 points (15-of-23 FG, 3-of-5 3-point FG) and carried the team for the majority of the game until the rest of the starters picked it up in the second half. Siakam, who helped lead the Toronto Raptors to the 2019 NBA championship, set a playoff career high. Tyrese Haliburton, who only scored two points in the first half, finished with 14 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds.

LOSERS

Knicks’ home-court advantage

Just like the world champion Boston Celtics did in the semifinals, this time it was the Knicks’ opportunity to squander the first two games at home and find themselves having to win four of the next five games to advance to their first NBA Finals since 1999. At the beginning of the fourth quarter, the reserves couldn’t keep the game close, and Jalen Brunson, who had 36 points and 11 assists, couldn’t bring the Knicks back.

Knicks’ interior defense

The Pacers’ ability to get to the paint almost at will hurt the Knicks, especially in the fourth quarter. Indiana took advantage of New York’s smaller guards, and when they weren’t scoring with uncontested layups or getting fouled, the Pacers’ outside shooters capitalized.

Josh Hart

The do-everything guard for the Knicks was a non-factor, getting into foul trouble early and never finding his groove. He finished with six points on 2-of-3 shooting and six rebounds in 29 minutes of action.

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Why Raiders rookie RB ‘wasn’t willing’ to give up No. 2 jersey

The number two is extremely important to Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty.

“It just means a lot to me and my family. A lot of my family who played sports wore No. 2,” Jeanty told USA TODAY Sports, during a promotional appearance with Sharpie. “Then I was born on December 2. The legacy, the greatness, and I was born that day. There’s just a lot of meaning behind it. And for the brand, I wasn’t willing to give it up.”

Jeanty wore No. 2 at Lone Star High School in Frisco, Texas, and at Boise State, where he became the school’s all-time leading rusher, achieved the second-highest single-season rushing total in FBS history and was a Heisman Trophy finalist.

When the Raiders selected Jeanty in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, he wanted to wear No. 2 at all costs.

Literally.

Jeanty negotiated with Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson for the number. Carlson had worn No. 2 for the past five seasons. The kicker sported No. 8 when he first joined the Raiders in 2018 but changed to No. 2 to accommodate Marcus Mariota when the QB arrived.

Fast forward to now, Carlson is going back to No. 8 because Jeanty paid a hefty price for the number.

Jeanty told Kay Adams this week on ‘Up and Adams’ that he paid six figures for the number. The running back confirmed the price tag to USA TODAY Sports.

“It’s true,” Jeanty said.

Jeanty wouldn’t specify the exact amount he paid for his beloved number, but the running back did say Carlson could purchase a luxury car.

“He could buy a nice Mercedes,” a smiling Jeanty said.  

The Raiders officially signed Jeanty to his rookie contract on May 8. His contract is worth a total value of $35.9 million, so it’s safe to say he could afford the six-figure amount he paid Carlson.

Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.

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Trump unleashes US nuclear renaissance with bold executive orders

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

In his famed 1953 ‘Atoms for Peace’ speech, President Eisenhower proclaimed that ‘the United States knows that peaceful power from atomic energy is no dream of the future.’ That dream was soon realized, as America built more than one hundred reactors over the next twenty-five years. But today, the promise of nuclear energy and innovation does indeed seem like a dream of the future.

Through a series of executive orders signed this week, President Trump is taking action to usher in an American nuclear renaissance. For the first time in many years, America has a path forward for quickly and safely testing advanced nuclear reactor designs, constructing new nuclear reactors at scale, and building a strong domestic nuclear industrial base.

Our stagnation was not for a lack of ingenuity or desire to innovate among America’s great scientists and technologists. By the end of the 1970s, dozens of nuclear reactors were planned or under construction. In the past 30 years, however, only three commercial nuclear reactors have been built, and many more have been shuttered. We know America can accomplish great feats in nuclear energy, so what happened?

In the wake of the Three Mile Island accident in 1979, public opinion began to sour on nuclear energy, and the effects of a decade of new federal bureaucracies began to set in. Overly burdensome regulations stifled our ability to even test, let alone deploy, new nuclear technologies. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) set the gold standard for safety regulation when it was established in 1975, but it soon transformed into a lead curtain for innovation. Onerous environmental requirements and long, uncertain regulatory timelines have killed industry’s willingness to fund new technologies.

Similarly, the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Labs—which once led the world in the development and demonstration of advanced nuclear technologies—shuttered nuclear development programs, shifting focus to other priorities.  All but three of fifty-two reactors at Idaho National Laboratory have been decommissioned, and it has been almost half a century since the Army Nuclear Power Program was shut down. These decisions eroded our domestic nuclear supply chain, undermined our national security, and left us having to relearn what we once pioneered.

President Trump wisely recognizes that the time is ripe for an American nuclear renaissance and is acting to deliver on the promise of nuclear energy for the American people. Across the country, American entrepreneurs and engineers are launching a new generation of nuclear companies featuring innovative reactor designs and scalable manufacturing techniques that can make nuclear safe, efficient, and economic. The Trump Administration will clear their path by dismantling outdated barriers that previous administrations had put up in their way.

Today, nuclear power plants provide approximately 19% of the electricity generated in the United States, more than solar and wind combined. That is reliable and affordable electricity for the American people, and it could and should be even more.

Today, nuclear power plants provide approximately 19% of the electricity generated in the United States, more than solar and wind combined. That is reliable and affordable electricity for the American people, and it could and should be even more. The Trump Administration is setting the goal of expanding American nuclear energy capacity from 100 GW today to 400 GW by 2050. This week’s executive actions will help us reach that goal in four ways.

First, we are going to fully leverage our DOE national laboratories to increase the speed with which we test new nuclear reactor designs. There is a big difference between a paper reactor and a practical reactor. The only way to bridge that gap—understanding the challenges that must be surmounted to bring reactors to the market, and building public trust in their deployment—is to test and evaluate demonstration reactors. 

Second, for our national and economic security, we are going to leverage the Departments of Defense and Energy to build nuclear reactors on federally owned land. This will support critical national security needs which require reliable, high-density power sources that are invulnerable to external threats or grid failures.

Third, to lower regulatory burdens and shorten licensing timelines, we are asking the NRC to undergo broad cultural change and regulatory reform, requiring a decision on a reactor license to be issued within 18 months. This will reduce regulatory uncertainty while maintaining nuclear safety. We will also reconsider the use of radiation limits that are not science based, impossible to achieve, and do not increase the safety of the American people. 

Fourth, we will be supporting our domestic nuclear industrial base across the nuclear fuel cycle.  The President has called for industry to start mining and enriching uranium in America again, as well as an expansion of domestic uranium conversion capacity as well as enrichment capabilities to meet projected civilian and defense reactor needs.

When President Eisenhower spoke about nuclear potential over 70 years ago, he expressed no doubt that the world’s best scientists and engineers, if empowered to ‘test and develop their ideas,’ could turn nuclear energy into a ‘universal, efficient, and economic’ source of power. In 2025, we have only to believe in American technologists, and give them the chance to build, to turn nuclear power into energy dominance and national security for all.

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United Airlines reaches ‘industry-leading’ labor deal with flight attendants, union says

United Airlines reached an “industry-leading” tentative labor deal for its 28,000 flight attendants, their union said Friday.

The deal includes “40% of total economic improvements” in the first year and retroactive pay, a signing bonus, and quality of life improvements, like better scheduling and on-call time, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA said.

The union did not provide further details about the deal.

United flight attendants have not had a raise since 2020.

The cabin crew members voted last year to authorize the union to strike if a deal wasn’t reached. They had also sought federal mediation in negotiations.

U.S. flight attendants have pushed for wage increases for years after pilots and other work groups secured new labor deals in the wake of the pandemic. United is the last of the major U.S. carriers to get a deal done with its flight attendants.

The deal must still face a vote by flight attendants, and contract language will be finalized in the coming days, United said.

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Trump clears Nippon merger with U.S. Steel

President Donald Trump on Friday cleared the merger of U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel, after the Japanese steelmaker’s previous bid to acquire its U.S. rival had been blocked on national security grounds.

“This will be a planned partnership between United States Steel and Nippon Steel, which will create at least 70,000 jobs, and add $14 Billion Dollars to the U.S. Economy,” Trump said in a post on his social media platform Truth Social.

U.S. Steel’s headquarters will remain in Pittsburgh and the bulk of the investment will take place over the next 14 months, the president said. U.S. Steel shares surged more than 20% to close at $52.01 per share after Trump’s announcement.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro applauded the agreement, saying he worked with local, state and federal leaders ‘to press for the best deal to keep U.S. Steel headquartered in Pittsburgh, protect union jobs, and secure the future of steelmaking in Western Pennsylvania.’

In his own statement, Lieutenant Gov. Austin Davis called the announcement ‘promising,’ but added: ‘I want to make sure everyone involved in the deal holds up their end of the bargain. I look forward to seeing the promised investments become a reality and the workers receive everything they’ve fought for.’

President Joe Biden blocked Nippon Steel from purchasing U.S. Steel for $14.9 billion in January, citing national security concerns. Biden said at the time that the acquisition would create a risk to supply chains that are critical for the U.S.

Trump, however, ordered a new review of the proposed acquisition in April, directing the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to determine “whether further action in this matter may be appropriate.”

Trump said he would hold a rally at U.S. Steel in Pittsburgh on May 30.

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Trump admin steps up overhaul of National Security Council, weeks after Waltz’s departure

President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are continuing to overhaul the National Security Council and shift its main functions to other agencies like the State and Defense departments. 

The latest efforts to slim down a federal agency come weeks after Trump announced former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz would depart his post at the White House overseeing the agency and serve as UN ambassador. Waltz himself began the streamlining process in January, when, in one of his first moves as Trump’s national security adviser, he ordered 160 NSC staffers off the job pending a comprehensive review of the agency’s alignment with Trump’s agenda.

The current plans to upend the agency would include whittling down the size of the National Security Council, which the Trump White House believes is full of long-term, bureaucratic staffers who don’t align with Trump’s agenda. 

Additionally, the restructuring will move Andy Barker, national security advisor to Vice President JD Vance, and Robert Gabriel, assistant to the president for policy, into roles serving as deputy national security advisors. 

Axios was the first to report the Trump administration’s restructuring plans. A White House official confirmed Axios’ reporting to Fox News Digital. 

A White House official involved in the planning said Trump and Rubio are driving the change in an attempt to target Washington’s so-called ‘Deep State.’ 

‘The NSC is the ultimate Deep State. It’s Marco vs. the Deep State. We’re gutting the Deep State,’ a White House official told Axios. 

 

The National Security Council is located within the White House and provides the president guidance on national security, military and foreign affairs matters. 

Waltz’s departure from the agency followed his involvement with other administration officials, like Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, in the Signal chat controversy over strike plans against the Houthis in March.

But Waltz had been focused early in his short tenure on the issue of what the Trump administration considers ‘deep state’ infiltration of the agency. The former Green Beret and Florida congressman was especially concerned about Biden administration political appointees and holdovers assigned to the NSC from other agencies. 

Since Waltz’s departure earlier this month, Rubio has taken on the role of national security advisor. That’s in addition to leading the State Department and serving as acting archivist and acting administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development, which the administration is aiming to dismantle this year. 

Fox News Digital was the first to report that the State Department planned to absorb the remaining operations and programs USAID runs so it would no longer function as an independent agency. The move requires cutting thousands of staff members in an attempt to bolster the efficiency of the existing, ‘life-saving’ foreign assistance programs, according to a State Department memo Fox News Digital obtained. 

Fox News’ Emma Colton contributed to this report. 

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Siakam torches Knicks as Pacers take 2-0 series lead: Game 2 highlights

NEW YORK — This time, there would be no need for a 20-point quarter from Aaron Nesmith, no need for a miracle bounce off the back of the rim to send the game into overtime, but the Indiana Pacers nonetheless took another game in Madison Square Garden, beating the New York Knicks 114-109.

The Knicks did make a late charge Friday night, eventually getting a Josh Hart layup to close the margin to one, but Jalen Brunson fouled Nesmith on an inbounds play. Nesmith flushed both free throws, and Brunson’s desperation heave in the final seconds clanked off the back of the rim.

Although both teams entered the fourth quarter tied, the Pacers pulled away behind crisp passing, timely shot making and a monster game from forward Pascal Siakam. All five Pacers starters reached double figures in scoring, but it was Siakam’s 39 points on an ultra-efficient 15-of-23 shooting performance that was the centerpiece for the Pacers.

All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton started slowly in the first half, scoring just two points, but he was far more aggressive in the second half in seeking his shot, scoring 12 more after intermission.

And, suddenly, the season for the Knicks hangs in peril. New York must now win four of the next five games to advance, with the next two coming at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Game 3 is Sunday (8 p.m. ET, TNT).

USA TODAY Sports’ had full coverage of Game 2 from Madison Square Garden. Scroll below for a recap and highlights:

Pacers vs. Knicks: Full Game 2 highlights

Final: Pacers 114, Knicks 109

Pascal Siakam scored 39 points – a personal playoff high – to lead the Indiana Pacers to the Game 2 win over the New York Knicks Friday on night at Madison Square Garden. The Pacers forward made 15 of 23 shots, including 3-of-5 3-pointers and 6-of-8 from the free throw line.

3Q: Pacers 81, Knicks 81

NEW YORK — Pascal Siakam, who leads all scorers with 32 points, continued to scorch the Knicks, finishing the third quarter with nine points on timely shots, as the Pacers used a mini-spurt to take a five-point lead midway through the frame. Siakam has the Knicks seemed resigned to play iso ball at times, leading to ill-advised shots.

After a 17-point first half, Jalen Brunson had his first points in the third with a 3-pointer to tie the score at 70 with four minutes remaining. The score was tied seven times in the frame.

But it was Tyrese Haliburton, who only scored two points in the first half, who through the chants of “overrated” got his game going by scoring 10 in the quarter. That complemented and took pressure off Siakam being the No. 1 option. Haliburton also has eight assists and six rebounds. Brunson leads New York with 24 points. 

Halftime: Knicks 52, Pacers 49

NEW YORK — It looks like we’ll have another tight one in the Garden.

After a second quarter that saw eight lead changes, the Knicks are taking a modest three-point lead into the half, 52-49.

Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns lifted New York early in the quarter, scoring all 12 of his points in the period. Jalen Bruson leads all Knicks with 17 points on 6-of-7 shooting. One area where the Knicks have capitalized is second-chance points, with New York holding an early 10-6 edge, led by backup center Mitchell Robinson’s three offensive boards.

One thing to watch for the Pacers: All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, whose game-tying jumper Wednesday sent Game 1 to overtime, scored only two points in the first half, with his first bucket coming at the two-minute mark in the half on a driving floater. He struggled to assert himself offensively and deferred to his teammates, shooting 1-of-6 in the half.

Where Haliburton was quiet, Pacers forward Pascal Siakam carried the team, scoring nine of his 23 points in the second quarter. 

Q1: Knicks 26, Pacers 24

NEW YORK — Indiana picked up where it left off in Game 1, firing on all cylinders, with Pascal Siakam scoring 16 points on 6-of-9 shooting. The Pacers shot out to an early 10-point lead, thanks to 61% shooting as the Knicks defense let the Pacers do their work in the paint. New York’s first 11 points came from OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson. Josh Hart got into early foul trouble, with two fouls in the first seven minutes. The Knicks went on a 10-0 run to tie the score at 19. Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton went scoreless in 10 minutes of action and the Pacers went nearly six minutes without a field goal to end the quarter.

What time is Pacers vs. Knicks?

Game 2 of the NBA Eastern Conference finals between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks is set to start at 8 p.m. ET.

Knicks starting five for Game 2

Pacers starting five for Game 2

John McEnroe visits TNT’s ‘Inside the NBA’

Seven-time major winning tennis star John McEnroe stopped by TNT’s “Inside the NBA” pregame show to promote the upcoming French Open, which will be broadcast on TNT for the first time, starting Sunday.

McEnroe never won the French Open, but finished as a runner-up to Ivan Lendl in 1984. He predicted Ben Shelton and Francis Tiafoe are the Americans with the best shot at winning at Roland Garros this year. 

Like Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith, McEnroe turned to broadcasting after his career. 

“I didn’t know that I was going to be great (on television). In fact, it was the last last thing I wanted to do. At the end of my career, I was like, ‘Oh my God, I’m going to be a commentator. That’s really pathetic.’ I got an opportunity and got some good advice, be yourself.”

Draymond Green, the Golden State Warriors forward who has a history of earning technical fouls for his outbursts on the court, asked McEnroe for advice on how to control his emotions. McEnroe jokingly replied, “The last person you want to talk to is me. It’s hopeless for either one of us.” — Cydney Henderson

All-NBA teams announced: Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic lead first team

Oklahoma City Thunder guard and league Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic lead the 15-member All-NBA team announced Friday.

Joining them on the first team were Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum and Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell.

Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic were unanimous selections from the media panel, as they were last season. Tatum and Antetokounmpo also were unanimous picks.

A panel of 100 global reporters and broadcasters who cover the NBA voted on the squad. The selections are positionless, and each player must have played 65 games in order to be eligible for postseason awards, including the All-NBA team. The voting occurs before the playoffs. See which 15 players made the All-NBA team here.

Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James for GOAT? Where does Jordan’s agent rank LBJ?

Many people believe that the debate over who is the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in the NBA has been settled, with Michael Jordan widely regarded as the top player. While David Falk, Jordan’s longtime agent, agrees that MJ deserves this title, he also shared his thoughts on where LeBron James fits into the conversation.

Falk, who has represented NBA legends such as Jordan, Allen Iverson and Patrick Ewing, shared his insights and advice for aspiring sports industry executives regarding the ever-evolving NBA landscape. He spoke at the Sports Business Journal 4SE conference in Manhattan on May 20. Read where he thinks LeBron ranks here. ‒ Elizabeth Flores

NBA post-combine mock draft: Who improved their standing?

With the NBA draft lottery (hello, Dallas Mavericks) and draft combine over, teams and prospects now turn their attention to pro days and mostly private workouts where even more impressions are made.

Those impressions lead to decisions at the June 25-26 NBA draft. Maybe it makes the difference between getting selected 16th or 13th. See how USA TODAY Sports’ reporters Jeff Zillgitt, Lorenzo Reyes and James Williams predict the draft here.

Pacers vs. Knicks Game 1 viewership big win for TNT, NBA

Indiana’s 138-135 Game 1 overtime victory against New York on Wednesday averaged 6.6 million viewers, making the game the most-watched Eastern Conference final Game 1 since 2018, according to TNT. Viewership peaked at 8.5 million viewers at 11 p.m. ET – right around the time the Pacers made their stunning comeback. The game also won the night in primetime, per TNT, which is a huge victory for the network and the league. — Jeff Zillgitt

Which celebrities and former players are at Madison Square Garden?

Who will show up to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 on Friday? We got you covered. USA TODAY Sports is tracking all the stars in attendance of the arena’s highly-coveted ‘celebrity row.’

Pacers vs. Knicks predictions: Expert picks for Game 2

USA TODAY: Knicks to win Game 2

The USA TODAY staff picks for Game 2 are nearly unanimous, with the Knicks claiming a 6-1 edge.

Scooby Axson: Knicks
Cydney Henderson: Knicks
Lorenzo Reyes: Knicks
Jordan Mendoza: Knicks
Heather Tucker: Knicks
James WIlliams: Knicks
Jeff Zillgitt: Pacers

Dimers: Knicks 116, Pacers 111

Dimers’ simulations have given the Knicks a 70% chance of winning Game 2, with a five-point margin the most likely outcome.

Covers.com: Knicks even the series

Jason Logan writes: ‘There are several alternate realities in which the Knicks held on to that late lead and won Game 1. It just wasn’t ours. Books have New York installed as 5.5-point favorites for Game 2, and while Indiana is always live, a series split seems more probable considering the Knicks played well for 47 minutes before coming undone on Wednesday. New York wins Game 2.’

ClutchPoints: Pacers 108, Knicks 103

Using the NBA 2K25 video game to simulate Game 2, Massimo Marchiano has the Pacers claiming a five-point win.

Pacers vs. Knicks odds

The New York Knicks are favored to win Game 2, according to BetMGM.

Odds as of Thursday, May 22.

Spread: Knicks (-5.5)
Moneyline: Knicks (-235), Nuggets (+190)
Over/under: 226.5

Pacers vs. Knicks series predictions: Expert picks

Before Game 1, USA TODAY Sports experts made predictions for the Eastern Conference finals winner:

Pacers vs. Knicks series winner

Jeff Zillgitt: Pacers in six
Lorenzo Reyes: Knicks in seven
Heather Tucker: Knicks in seven
James Williams: Knicks in six
Jordan Mendoza: Knicks in seven
Scooby Axson: Knicks in seven
Cydney Henderson: Knicks in six

How to watch Pacers vs. Knicks: TV, stream

Time: 8 p.m. ET
Location: Madison Square Garden
TV: TNT, truTV
Stream: Sling TV, Fubo, YouTube TV

Watch Pacers vs. Knicks Game 2 on Fubo

Pacers vs. Knicks Eastern Conference finals schedule

(Pacers lead series 2-0)

Game 1: Pacers 138, Knicks 135 (OT)
Game 2: Pacers 114, Knicks 109
Game 3, May 25: Knicks at Pacers | TNT, 8 p.m.
Game 4, May 27: Knicks at Pacers | TNT, 8 p.m.
Game 5, May 29: Pacers at Knicks | TNT, 8 p.m.*
Game 6, May 31: Knicks at Pacers | TNT, 8 p.m.*
Game 7, June 2: Pacers at Knicks | TNT, 8 p.m.*

All times Eastern; *-if necessary

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Celebs at Knicks vs. Pacers: Russell Wilson, more at Game 2

A star-studded crowd flocked to Madison Square Garden on Friday night in hopes of watching the New York Knicks bounce back in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals after suffering a 138-135 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.

Unfortunately, the highly-coveted ‘celebrity row,’ which included the likes of Russell Wilson, Ciara and Timothée Chalamet, saw New York lose its second straight game at home to drop to 0-2 in the conference finals.

Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals brought out a variety of celebrities, ranging from Knicks legends (Carmelo Anthony, Patrick Ewing and Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier) to comedians (Tracy Morgan, Dave Chappelle and Larry David), award-winning actors (Jon Hamm, Chalamet and Ben Stiller), Grammy-winning musicians (Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson and Common) and world-class athletes (Suni Lee and CC Sabathia).

Who showed up to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 on Friday? We got you covered. USA TODAY Sports tracked all the stars in attendance:

Celebrities at Knicks game tonight

A who’s who of Hollywood has turned out to Madison Square Garden on Friday. Actor Michael J. Fox, comedian/actor Jim Gaffigan, ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ actress Susie Essman, ‘Miami Vice’ actor Don Johnson, ‘Stranger Things’ actor Caleb McLaughlin, ‘Entourage’ actor Jerry Ferrarra, ‘The Sopranos’ star Edie Falco and ‘Gladiator 2’ star Fred Hechinger are some of the stars in the building.

Russell Wilson, Giants coach Brian Daboll in the building

New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll and his newest quarterback, Russell Wilson, are enjoying the offseason. Daboll and Wilson pulled up to Madison Square Garden to watch their basketball counterparts in action. Musician Ciara, the Grammy-nominated wife of Wilson, was also on hand. The power couple matched in denim.

Timothée Chalamet spotted, again

‘Wonka’ star Timothée Chalamet has the golden ticket — a front row seat for Game 2. Chalamet, a familiar face at Madison Square Garden, often joins the jubilant crowd and Friday was no different. He was seated next to fellow superfan Ben Stiller. Chalamet’s fervent support for the Knicks, as reported by the New York Times, began during his high school days at LaGuardia High School in Manhattan, when he was a budding actor striving to carve his niche. Chalamet’s girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, was not in attendance. The pair had a date night at Game 4 of the Knicks-Celtics Eastern Conference semifinals earlier this month. — Elizabeth Flores

Jon Hamm returns to Garden after exchange with Tyrese Haliburton

‘Mad Men’ actor Jon Hamm is in the building and he’s on his best behavior. If you remember, Hamm made a mad man out of Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton during Game 1 after the actor snagged a loose ball on the sidelines that Haliburton believed he could’ve kept inbounds. Haliburton complained about interference by Hamm, but nothing came of it.

Marv Albert, Bob Costas in the building

A pair of broadcasting legends are in the crowd. Hall of Fame broadcaster Marv Albert, who was known as the ‘voice of the New York Knicks’ from 1967 to 2004, was on hand to watch the team up close and personal. Longtime NBC Sports broadcaster Bob Costas is also in the building.

Busta Rhymes raps ‘New York Knicks Anthem’ at halftime

Busta Rhymes is back for Game 2. The rapper was front and center next to British rapper Skepta. And although the Knicks dropped Game 1 in devastating fashion, Rhymes isn’t feeling down. He dropped a new song, ‘New York Knicks Anthem,’ in the midst of Game 2 to rally the fanbase. He performed the song during halftime in a custom Knicks leather jacket. He rapped: ‘I’m for my New York Knicks. Gotta rep the city for my New York Knicks.”

Knicks legends represent in Madison Square Garden

The champ is here. Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier led the Knicks to two titles in 1970 and 1973, which remain the franchise’s only NBA championships to date. He’s not the only Knick alum to return home for Game 2. Hubert Davis, the current head coach of the North Carolina men’s basketball team, played for the Knicks from 1992-1996 after being drafted by New York with the 20th overall pick in 1992.

Bernard King (1982–1987), Larry Johnson (1996–2001), Latrell Sprewell (1999–2003), John Starks (1990–1998), Stephon Marbury (2004–2009), Tim Thomas (2004–2005, 2008–2009), Wilson Chandler (2007–2011) and J. R. Smith (2012–2015) are also in the house.

Musicians Maggie Rogers, Jelly Roll present

Maggie Rogers is a long way from ‘Alaska.’ The Grammy-nominated musician was in attendance for Game 2. The Maryland native has ties to the city. She attended New York University, where returned to serve as a commencement speaker earlier this month. Musicians Questlove and Jelly Roll are also on hand.

Jerry O’Connell, Justin Long snap selfie

Comedian Jerry O’Connell says Game 2 is a ‘MUST WIN’ for the Knicks. He posted a courtside selfie featuring fellow actor Justin Long. The New York native used city lingo to caption the photo: ‘BING BONG.’

How much do NBA courtside seats cost?

If you want to see your favorite basketball team play up close and personal, it’s going to cost you. There are a number of factors that affect ticket prices, including the level of play, teams competing and location.

Do celebrities pay for NBA courtside tickets?

Yes and no.

There are a variety of ways A-listers can snag courtside seats and some methods don’t include opening their wallets. TicketSmarter CEO Jeff Goodman told USA TODAY Sports that celebrities can leverage their connections to get tickets through team owners. Sometimes they are invited by ownership groups or league sponsors, but most times, stars pay their way.

‘Just because they are celebrities doesn’t mean they are getting free tickets,’ Goodman said. ‘In many cases, they are paying just like everybody else if they don’t know someone with the team or with the ownership group.’ Full story on how stars get courtside seats and how much NBA courtside seats cost here.

Comedian Bill Murray sits courtside

Knicks fans are hoping Friday is not Groundhog Day following the team’s Game 1 overtime loss Wednesday. Speaking of ‘Groundhog Day,’ actor Bill Murray is in attendance at Madison Square Garden. The actor is a major Chicago Cubs fan, but we’re guessing Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals was too sweet to pass up. He attended the contest with son Luke Murray, who is an assistant coach for the UConn men’s basketball team. 

Ben Stiller, Tracy Morgan back at the Garden

It’s no “Night at the Museum” for actor Ben Stiller. Instead, the diehard Knicks fan is enjoying a night at Madison Square Garden, where he’s become a mainstay on ‘Celebrity Row.’ Stiller appeared to be pumped for the game. Earlier Friday, he sent three separate tweets that read, ‘LETTTTTTSSSSSS GOOOOOOOOOOOO KNIIIICCCCCKKKKSSSSSSS.’ Another staple, Tracy Morgan, was also front and center for Game 2.

Stream Knicks vs. Pacers Game 2 on Sling

Yes, basketball players get starstruck

And if you’re wondering, basketball players get starstruck too. Ahead of Game 1, TNT commentator Kenny Smith noted that players feel the pressure of competing in front of celebrities, especially in New York and Los Angeles.

‘You cannot glance to the left. You cannot glance to the right. You have to stay focused in, because there’s Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, all the famous rappers that you’ve ever wanted to talk to. They are here,’ Smith said on the ‘Inside the NBA’ pre-game show Wednesday. ‘When you’re in the Eastern Conference finals, you have to knock that out and not pay attention to any of that.’

John McEnroe stops by TNT pregame show

Seven-time major winning tennis star John McEnroe stopped by TNT’s “Inside the NBA” pregame show to promote the upcoming French Open, which will broadcast on TNT for the first time, starting Sunday. McEnroe never won the French Open, but finished as a runner-up to Ivan Lendl in 1984. He predicted Ben Shelton and Francis Tiafoe are the Americans with the best shot at winning at Roland Garros. 

Like Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith, McEnroe turned to broadcasting after his career. 

“I didn’t know that I was going to be great (on television). In fact, it was the last thing I wanted to do. At the end of my career, I was like, ‘Oh my God, I’m going to be a commentator. That’s really pathetic.’ I got an opportunity and got some good advice: ‘be yourself.’”

Draymond Green asked McEnroe for advice on how to control his emotions. McEnroe jokingly replied, “The last person you want to talk to is me.  It’s hopeless for either one of us.”

Jalen Brunson-Mariska Hargitay connection explained

Madison Square Garden’s coveted Celebrity Row would normally leave anyone starstruck, offering up plenty of A-list sightings from Spike Lee to Ben Stiller and Timothee Chalamet. But New York Knicks superstar Jalen Brunson has only been left awestruck by one celebrity. That person is (don-don) Mariska Hargitay, longtime star of the hit TV show “Law & Order: SVU.’

‘I’ve never been like super, super starstruck. I saw her and I was like, ‘Oh, (wow),’’ Brunson said during a May 4 episode of his “The Roommates Show” podcast, which he hosts alongside teammate Josh Hart. ‘Then, the first time we met, it was awesome, we talked and everything.’

A friendship between Brunson and Hargitay has been brewing since he donned royal blue and orange. Why is Hargitay Brunson’s favorite? Click here to see what’s behind the Brunson-Hargitay connection.

What time is Knicks vs. Pacers Game 2?

Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers tips off Friday at 8 p.m. ET.

Knicks vs. Pacers Game 2: How to watch, TV, stream

Time: 8 p.m. ET
Location: Madison Square Garden; New York
TV: TNT
Stream: Max, Sling

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WCWS teams: NCAA softball bracket, super regional scores, schedule

The picture of the coveted Oklahoma City Eight of the NCAA softball tournament bracket is starting to become clearer.

Behind star pitcher NiJaree Canady, No. 12 Texas Tech on May 23 became the first team to advance to the Women’s College World Series. The Red Raiders upset No. 5 national seed Florida State in a clean two-game sweep.

There remain seven more tickets around the country to be claimed. The next team that can join that can join Texas Tech in the WCWS could be No. 11 Clemson, who took Game 1 of the Austin Super Regional in an upset against No. 6 Texas on May 22.

All spots in the WCWS can be all locked up by the end of Saturday. No. 2 Oklahoma looks to punch its ticket to the WCWS for the ninth consecutive season, in which Patty Gasso’s Sooners will look to win their fifth straight national championship.

Action in Oklahoma City gets underway on Thursday, May 29 with a quadruple header of first-round games at Devon Park.

Here’s what you need to know about who is advancing to the Women’s College World Series, including a first look at the matchups in Oklahoma City and more:

Watch the Women’s College World Series live with Fubo (free trial)

Who’s in Women’s College World Series? Updated NCAA softball bracket

This section will be updated as teams secure their spot in the WCWS after winning their super regional

No. 5 Texas Tech (Won Tallahassee Super Regional)

Super Regional scores

Norman Super Regional

Game 1: No. 2 Oklahoma 3, No. 15 Alabama 0

Gainesville Super Regional

Game 1: No. 3 Florida 6, Georgia 1

Fayetteville Super Regional

Game 1: Ole Miss 9, No. 4 Arkansas 7

Tallahassee Super Regional

Game 1: No. 12 Texas Tech 3, No. 5 Florida State 0 (Texas Tech leads 1-0)
Game 2: No. 12 Texas Tech 2, No. 5 Florida State 1 (Texas Tech wins)

Austin Super Regional

Game 1: No. 11 Clemson 7, No. 6 Texas 4 (Clemson leads 1-0)
Game 2: No. 6 Texas 7, No. 11 Clemson 5 (10 innings) (series tied 1-1)

Knoxville Super Regional

Game 1: Nebraska 5, No. 7 Tennessee 2 (Nebraska leads 1-0)

Greenville Super Regional

Game 1: No. 8 South Carolina 9, No. 9 UCLA 2

When is the Women’s College World Series?

Women’s College World Series start date: Thursday, May 29
Women’s College World Series end date: Thursday, June 5/Friday, June 6

The Women’s College World Series will start on Thursday, May 29 at Devon Park in Oklahoma City and run through either Thursday, June 5 or Friday, June 6, depending on whether the WCWS championship series needs the ‘if necessary’ Game 3 to be played or not.

Women’s College World Series schedule

Here’s a breakdown of the Thursday and Friday schedule for the 2025 WCWS, including first pitch times and TV information:

All times Eastern

Thursday, May 29

Game 1: | Noon | ESPN
Game 2: 2:30 p.m. | ESPN
Game 3: 7 p.m. | ESPN2
Game 4: 9 p.m. | ESPN2

Friday, May 30

Game 5: 7 p.m. | ESPN2
Game 6: 9:30 p.m. | ESPN2

How to watch Women’s College World Series?

TV channels: ESPN | ESPN2 | ESPNU | ABC
Streaming: ESPN app | Fubo (free trial)

The entirety of the Women’s College World Series will be nationally televised across the ESPN family of networks: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU and ABC. Streaming options for the WCWS include the ESPN app (with a TV login) and Fubo, which carries the ESPN family of networks and offers a free trial to new subscribers.

When is the NCAA softball tournament?

Here’s the full 2025 NCAA softball tournament schedule:

Regionals: May 16-18
Super Regionals: May 22-25
Women’s College World Series: May 29-June 5/6

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Michael Jordan’s longtime agent weighs in on the G.O.A.T debate

Many people believe that the debate over who is the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in the NBA has been settled, with Michael Jordan widely regarded as the top player. While David Falk, Jordan’s longtime agent, agrees that MJ deserves this title, he also shared his thoughts on where LeBron James fits into the conversation.

Falk, who has represented NBA legends such as Jordan, Allen Iverson and Patrick Ewing, shared his insights and advice for aspiring sports industry executives regarding the ever-evolving NBA landscape. He spoke at the Sports Business Journal 4SE conference in Manhattan on May 20.

During the panel, Falk shared his intimate memories of representing Jordan in the early days, both the good and the bad. He specifically recalled having to navigate the scandal that arose after it was revealed that Jordan had paid Slim Bouler tens of thousands of dollars following a gambling incident on the golf course in the early 1990s.

Falk settles the G.O.A.T debate

When asked if he believed Michael Jordan was the Greatest Of All Time, he quickly agreed and mentioned that the number two spot would go to either Kareem Abdul-Jabbar or Kobe Bryant.

When asked if LeBron James fell within the top 10, he answered:

“Probably,” Falk said, before delivering the quote of the day: “I really like LeBron,” he said. “But I think if Jordan had cherry-picked what teams he wanted to be on and two other superstars, he would’ve won 15 championships.”

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