Sports Buzz: James Harden Drops Career-High 50 Points

Plus, UCLA controversially defeats SMU.

James Harden Drops Career-High 50 Points - James Harden went off for a career-high 50 points Thursday night, leading the Houston Rockets to a 118-108 win over the Denver Nuggets. Harden shot 12 of 27 from the field and a whopping 22 of 25 from the charity stripe to net the 50 points in 40 minutes, becoming the first Rockets player to notch 50 since Hakeem Olajuwon's 51 in January 1996.(Photo: Scott Halleran/Getty Images)

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James Harden Drops Career-High 50 Points - James Harden went off for a career-high 50 points Thursday night, leading the Houston Rockets to a 118-108 win over the Denver Nuggets. Harden shot 12 of 27 from the field and a whopping 22 of 25 from the charity stripe to net the 50 points in 40 minutes, becoming the first Rockets player to notch 50 since Hakeem Olajuwon's 51 in January 1996.(Photo: Scott Halleran/Getty Images)

UCLA Controversially Defeats SMU - There was plenty of talk about UCLA not deserving its selection into the 2015 NCAA Tournament. Well, the Bruins might have proved any critics wrong Thursday, when guard Bryce Alford's three-point attempt was called a goaltending on SMU center Yanick Moreira, giving No. 11 UCLA a 60-59 upset over sixth-seed Mustangs.(Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

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UCLA Controversially Defeats SMU - There was plenty of talk about UCLA not deserving its selection into the 2015 NCAA Tournament. Well, the Bruins might have proved any critics wrong Thursday, when guard Bryce Alford's three-point attempt was called a goaltending on SMU center Yanick Moreira, giving No. 11 UCLA a 60-59 upset over sixth-seed Mustangs.(Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

NC State Beats LSU at the Buzzer - BeeJay Anya's buzzer-beating leaner propelled No. 8 NC State past ninth-seeded LSU, 66-65, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday. The final play was actually designed for one of Anya's teammates, but the forward took it in his own hands and the Wolfpack advances in the tourney because of it.(Photo: Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

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NC State Beats LSU at the Buzzer - BeeJay Anya's buzzer-beating leaner propelled No. 8 NC State past ninth-seeded LSU, 66-65, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday. The final play was actually designed for one of Anya's teammates, but the forward took it in his own hands and the Wolfpack advances in the tourney because of it.(Photo: Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

Kentucky Hammers Hampton in Opening Round of NCAA Tournament - Looking to make history, No. 1 Kentucky didn't have any problems disposing of 16th-seeded Hampton on Thursday night, scoring a 79-56 rout victory. Karl-Anthony Towns led the Wildcats with 21 points and 11 rebounds. With the win, Kentucky improves to 35-0 in its continued quest for a national championship and undefeated season.(Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

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Kentucky Hammers Hampton in Opening Round of NCAA Tournament - Looking to make history, No. 1 Kentucky didn't have any problems disposing of 16th-seeded Hampton on Thursday night, scoring a 79-56 rout victory. Karl-Anthony Towns led the Wildcats with 21 points and 11 rebounds. With the win, Kentucky improves to 35-0 in its continued quest for a national championship and undefeated season.(Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Colts' Erik Walden Allegedly Slashed in Attack by Ex-Girlfriend - Indianapolis Colts linebacker Erik Walden was slashed in the arm with a knife by his alleged ex-girlfriend, who also broke his female companion's arm, during an incident in Braselton, GA, late Saturday night, ESPN is reporting. Erica Palmer, Walden's alleged ex-girlfriend, was arrested.(Photo: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

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Colts' Erik Walden Allegedly Slashed in Attack by Ex-Girlfriend - Indianapolis Colts linebacker Erik Walden was slashed in the arm with a knife by his alleged ex-girlfriend, who also broke his female companion's arm, during an incident in Braselton, GA, late Saturday night, ESPN is reporting. Erica Palmer, Walden's alleged ex-girlfriend, was arrested.(Photo: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

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Kevin Durant Held Out of Practice With Soreness in Foot - Having missed 14 games since having a second procedure on his surgically repaired right foot, Kevin Durant was held out of Oklahoma City Thunder practice Thursday after experiencing soreness, ESPN is reporting. KD was originally only supposed to miss two weeks after the second procedure on his foot on Feb. 23. The Thunder (38-30) are still holding on to the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.(Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

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Kevin Durant Held Out of Practice With Soreness in Foot - Having missed 14 games since having a second procedure on his surgically repaired right foot, Kevin Durant was held out of Oklahoma City Thunder practice Thursday after experiencing soreness, ESPN is reporting. KD was originally only supposed to miss two weeks after the second procedure on his foot on Feb. 23. The Thunder (38-30) are still holding on to the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.(Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Warriors Edge Hawks, Own NBA's Best Record  - If the Golden State Warriors-Atlanta Hawks matchup Wednesday night was a preview of the NBA Finals, then the Warriors left no doubt who the best team in the league is. Harrison Barnes had a game-high 25 points and Stephen Curry added 16 points and 12 assists to lead the Warriors to a 114-95 home win over the Hawks. "We obviously wanted to beat them tonight because they gave us a whooping in Atlanta," Curry told the Associated Press, referring to the Hawks' win over the Warriors back on Feb. 6. "It was a fun night." With the win, the Warriors (54-13) maintain the best record in the league with the Hawks just behind at 53-15.(Photo: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

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Warriors Edge Hawks, Own NBA's Best Record  - If the Golden State Warriors-Atlanta Hawks matchup Wednesday night was a preview of the NBA Finals, then the Warriors left no doubt who the best team in the league is. Harrison Barnes had a game-high 25 points and Stephen Curry added 16 points and 12 assists to lead the Warriors to a 114-95 home win over the Hawks. "We obviously wanted to beat them tonight because they gave us a whooping in Atlanta," Curry told the Associated Press, referring to the Hawks' win over the Warriors back on Feb. 6. "It was a fun night." With the win, the Warriors (54-13) maintain the best record in the league with the Hawks just behind at 53-15.(Photo: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Dwyane Wade Hits Game-Winning Jumper in Heat Victory Over Blazers - Dwyane Wade more than still has it. Wade dropped 15 of his 32 points in the fourth quarter, including what turned out to be the game-winning jumper with 13.6 seconds left, to lift the Miami Heat to a 108-104 home win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night. "This is what I love to do," Wade told the Associated Press afterward. "This is the fun part of this game. I mean, obviously the last couple years I had to do what I had to do for that team. But now for this team I get to be a little bit back to my usual self, having the ball. I'm not going to do it right every time, but I like my chances most nights." With the win, Miami (31-36) moved into the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference.(Photo: AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

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Dwyane Wade Hits Game-Winning Jumper in Heat Victory Over Blazers - Dwyane Wade more than still has it. Wade dropped 15 of his 32 points in the fourth quarter, including what turned out to be the game-winning jumper with 13.6 seconds left, to lift the Miami Heat to a 108-104 home win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night. "This is what I love to do," Wade told the Associated Press afterward. "This is the fun part of this game. I mean, obviously the last couple years I had to do what I had to do for that team. But now for this team I get to be a little bit back to my usual self, having the ball. I'm not going to do it right every time, but I like my chances most nights." With the win, Miami (31-36) moved into the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference.(Photo: AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Dallas Cowboys Sign Greg Hardy - The Dallas Cowboys signed Greg Hardy to a one-year, $11.3 million deal Wednesday, seemingly overlooking the possibility that the defensive end may still be suspended by the NFL for violating the league's domestic violence conduct policy, ESPN is reporting. Hardy was arrested last May for assaulting and threatening to kill his ex-girlfriend, before being found guilty by a North Carolina judge in July. The Carolina Panthers placed him on the commissioner's exempt list in September. However, Hardy requested a jury trial and all charges against him were dropped this past February, when his ex-girlfriend refused to cooperate with the district attorney.(Photo: AP Photo/Chuck Burton, File)

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Dallas Cowboys Sign Greg Hardy - The Dallas Cowboys signed Greg Hardy to a one-year, $11.3 million deal Wednesday, seemingly overlooking the possibility that the defensive end may still be suspended by the NFL for violating the league's domestic violence conduct policy, ESPN is reporting. Hardy was arrested last May for assaulting and threatening to kill his ex-girlfriend, before being found guilty by a North Carolina judge in July. The Carolina Panthers placed him on the commissioner's exempt list in September. However, Hardy requested a jury trial and all charges against him were dropped this past February, when his ex-girlfriend refused to cooperate with the district attorney.(Photo: AP Photo/Chuck Burton, File)

Robert Morris Makes It to NCAA Tournament Field of 64 - Robert Morris of the Northeast Conference overcame a 14-point deficit to score a 81-77 win over North Florida on Wednesday night and advance to the NCAA Tournament field of 64 teams. Robert Morris senior guard Lucky Jones had 21 points and seven rebounds. In the other First Four matchup Wednesday night, Dayton edged Boise State, 56-55, to also gain entry into the NCAA Tournament.(Photo: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

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Robert Morris Makes It to NCAA Tournament Field of 64 - Robert Morris of the Northeast Conference overcame a 14-point deficit to score a 81-77 win over North Florida on Wednesday night and advance to the NCAA Tournament field of 64 teams. Robert Morris senior guard Lucky Jones had 21 points and seven rebounds. In the other First Four matchup Wednesday night, Dayton edged Boise State, 56-55, to also gain entry into the NCAA Tournament.(Photo: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

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NFL Owners to Discuss Rules Changes Next Week - The NFL competition committee came up with 23 proposed changes to league rules and policies that team owners will discuss during owners' meetings next week, ESPN is reporting. In addition to possible changes to the replay system, the owners will also talk about possibly expanding the playoffs and the controversial catch-or-no-catch rule, according to ESPN. (Photo: Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

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NFL Owners to Discuss Rules Changes Next Week - The NFL competition committee came up with 23 proposed changes to league rules and policies that team owners will discuss during owners' meetings next week, ESPN is reporting. In addition to possible changes to the replay system, the owners will also talk about possibly expanding the playoffs and the controversial catch-or-no-catch rule, according to ESPN. (Photo: Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

Marlins, Yelich Agree to $49.5 Million Deal - After hitting .284 with nine home runs and 54 RBIs last season, the Miami Marlins have rewarded outfielder Christian Yelich to a seven-year, $49.5 million deal Wednesday, as reported by ESPN.  (Photo: Chris Trotman/Getty Images)

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Marlins, Yelich Agree to $49.5 Million Deal - After hitting .284 with nine home runs and 54 RBIs last season, the Miami Marlins have rewarded outfielder Christian Yelich to a seven-year, $49.5 million deal Wednesday, as reported by ESPN.  (Photo: Chris Trotman/Getty Images)

NBA Veteran Al Harrington Retires - After 16 seasons in the NBA, Al Harrington retired Wednesday and talked to the Denver Post about his journey in the league. "It was a fun ride. It went by fast too," said Harrington, who made the jump from St. Patrick High School in New Jersey to being a first-round pick by the Indiana Pacers in the 1998 NBA Draft. "It was like one minute I was 18, the next I was 25, then was 30 and now I'm 35. It was a fun run. Met a lot of great people." Harrington played with seven different teams throughout his career and is one of only five players to play more than 15 years in the NBA after skipping college.(Photo: Rob Carr/Getty Images)

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NBA Veteran Al Harrington Retires - After 16 seasons in the NBA, Al Harrington retired Wednesday and talked to the Denver Post about his journey in the league. "It was a fun ride. It went by fast too," said Harrington, who made the jump from St. Patrick High School in New Jersey to being a first-round pick by the Indiana Pacers in the 1998 NBA Draft. "It was like one minute I was 18, the next I was 25, then was 30 and now I'm 35. It was a fun run. Met a lot of great people." Harrington played with seven different teams throughout his career and is one of only five players to play more than 15 years in the NBA after skipping college.(Photo: Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Longtime Syracuse Coach Jim Boeheim to Retire in Three Years - Not even two weeks after the NCAA hit Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim with a nine-game suspension and other penalties, the school announced Wednesday that the longtime Orange basketball coach will retire in three years. This comes after Syracuse let go of its athletic director Daryl Gross earlier in the same day. Boeheim has been head coach of Syracuse since 1976. (Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)

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Longtime Syracuse Coach Jim Boeheim to Retire in Three Years - Not even two weeks after the NCAA hit Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim with a nine-game suspension and other penalties, the school announced Wednesday that the longtime Orange basketball coach will retire in three years. This comes after Syracuse let go of its athletic director Daryl Gross earlier in the same day. Boeheim has been head coach of Syracuse since 1976. (Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)

Manny Pacquiao Has First Sparring Session for Mayweather Fight - After spending two weeks doing conditioning work in the Philippines, Manny Pacquiao officially began sparring Tuesday in preparation for his May 2 mega bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr. Pacquiao went five rounds with two different welterweights at trainer Freddie Roach's Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood. "After 13 days of strength and conditioning and boxing drills at Wild Card plus weeks more of working out in the Philippines in February, it was great to finally put on the headgear and spar," Pacquiao told ESPN. "My sparring partners gave me good work today. They were perfect for testing the strategy Freddie and I have developed to beat Floyd Mayweather. I was very happy with my stamina and speed today."  Mayweather is training at his gym, the Mayweather Boxing Club, in Las Vegas.(P...

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Manny Pacquiao Has First Sparring Session for Mayweather Fight - After spending two weeks doing conditioning work in the Philippines, Manny Pacquiao officially began sparring Tuesday in preparation for his May 2 mega bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr. Pacquiao went five rounds with two different welterweights at trainer Freddie Roach's Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood. "After 13 days of strength and conditioning and boxing drills at Wild Card plus weeks more of working out in the Philippines in February, it was great to finally put on the headgear and spar," Pacquiao told ESPN. "My sparring partners gave me good work today. They were perfect for testing the strategy Freddie and I have developed to beat Floyd Mayweather. I was very happy with my stamina and speed today."  Mayweather is training at his gym, the Mayweather Boxing Club, in Las Vegas.(P...

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Three Morgan State Football Players Stabbed on Campus - Three Morgan State football players, whose identities haven't been released as of press time, were stabbed on the school's campus, Baltimore police told ESPN. One such player is in serious condition. The university also told ESPN that the players were stabbed when some started swinging a knife wildly on campus. All three players are expected to survive, as the injuries are not considered life-threatening. One person has been taken into police custody. (Photo: Karl Merton Ferron/Baltimore Sun/ TNS /LANDOV)

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Three Morgan State Football Players Stabbed on Campus - Three Morgan State football players, whose identities haven't been released as of press time, were stabbed on the school's campus, Baltimore police told ESPN. One such player is in serious condition. The university also told ESPN that the players were stabbed when some started swinging a knife wildly on campus. All three players are expected to survive, as the injuries are not considered life-threatening. One person has been taken into police custody. (Photo: Karl Merton Ferron/Baltimore Sun/ TNS /LANDOV)

Pouncey Brothers Rip Ex-Dolphins Teammate Mike Wallace? - Was it all just a misunderstanding? When asked about his former teammate Mike Wallace, Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey didn't hesitate telling ESPN on Tuesday what he thinks of the wide receiver leaving the Miami Dolphins for the Minnesota Vikings. "First of all, in my opinion, he's a coward," Pouncey said. "I never want a guy on my team like that to walk out on your band of brothers...It's about playing for your brothers." Maurkice's brother, Dolphins center Mike Pouncey, added that he's glad the organization moved on, seemingly referring to Wallace leaving town. Later Tuesday, though, Maurkice tweeted, "Now I see why Marshawn Lynch gives the media short phrases!"  Wallace caught wind of the comments and tweeted: "Mike and Maurkice are my lil bros man...Mau...

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Pouncey Brothers Rip Ex-Dolphins Teammate Mike Wallace? - Was it all just a misunderstanding? When asked about his former teammate Mike Wallace, Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey didn't hesitate telling ESPN on Tuesday what he thinks of the wide receiver leaving the Miami Dolphins for the Minnesota Vikings. "First of all, in my opinion, he's a coward," Pouncey said. "I never want a guy on my team like that to walk out on your band of brothers...It's about playing for your brothers." Maurkice's brother, Dolphins center Mike Pouncey, added that he's glad the organization moved on, seemingly referring to Wallace leaving town. Later Tuesday, though, Maurkice tweeted, "Now I see why Marshawn Lynch gives the media short phrases!"  Wallace caught wind of the comments and tweeted: "Mike and Maurkice are my lil bros man...Mau...

Serge Ibaka Has Knee Surgery, Out Four to Six Weeks - The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without Serge Ibaka for four to six weeks, after the power forward had arthroscopic knee surgery in New York City on Tuesday to treat swelling and soreness, ESPN is reporting. If the Thunder (37-30) make the playoffs, Ibaka could possibly be available for their first-round series. Currently, OKC is in ninth place, looking in with 15 more games to play.(Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

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Serge Ibaka Has Knee Surgery, Out Four to Six Weeks - The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without Serge Ibaka for four to six weeks, after the power forward had arthroscopic knee surgery in New York City on Tuesday to treat swelling and soreness, ESPN is reporting. If the Thunder (37-30) make the playoffs, Ibaka could possibly be available for their first-round series. Currently, OKC is in ninth place, looking in with 15 more games to play.(Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Ole Miss Makes Tournament Cut of 64 - Down 17 points, Ole Miss rallied all the way back to defeat BYU, 94-90,  in their First Four matchup Tuesday night. The other First Four game saw Hampton edge Manhattan, 74-64. With the wins, both Ole Miss and Hampton make the NCAA Tournament's field of 64. After Hampton's win, coach Edward Joyner Jr. asked Jesus for help against undefeated Kentucky, whom they will play next.(Photo: Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

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Ole Miss Makes Tournament Cut of 64 - Down 17 points, Ole Miss rallied all the way back to defeat BYU, 94-90,  in their First Four matchup Tuesday night. The other First Four game saw Hampton edge Manhattan, 74-64. With the wins, both Ole Miss and Hampton make the NCAA Tournament's field of 64. After Hampton's win, coach Edward Joyner Jr. asked Jesus for help against undefeated Kentucky, whom they will play next.(Photo: Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

Gregg Popovich Calls Spurs Pathetic in Loss to Knicks - Any team can be beaten on any given night. But don't tell that to San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. After the defending champion Spurs lost to the New York Knicks, 104-100 in overtime Tuesday night, Pop ripped into his team. "We didn't respect the game, we didn't respect our opponent," Popovich told ESPN. "It was a pathetic performance and I hope that every player is embarrassed. Not because 'we are supposed to win the game' but it is about how you play the game." The Spurs (41-25) are currently holding on to the seventh seed in the Western Conference. (Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

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Gregg Popovich Calls Spurs Pathetic in Loss to Knicks - Any team can be beaten on any given night. But don't tell that to San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. After the defending champion Spurs lost to the New York Knicks, 104-100 in overtime Tuesday night, Pop ripped into his team. "We didn't respect the game, we didn't respect our opponent," Popovich told ESPN. "It was a pathetic performance and I hope that every player is embarrassed. Not because 'we are supposed to win the game' but it is about how you play the game." The Spurs (41-25) are currently holding on to the seventh seed in the Western Conference. (Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

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Former Chicago Bulls Player Jack Haley Dies at 51 - Jack Haley, a reserve player on the Chicago Bulls 1996 championship team, died on Monday due to heart disease, ESPN is reporting. He was 51. Former Bulls teammate Scottie Pippen expressed condolences via Twitter: "Very sorry to hear my old teammate, Jack Haley, has passed away. Great guy who I stayed in touch with over the years. RIP." (Photo: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

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Former Chicago Bulls Player Jack Haley Dies at 51 - Jack Haley, a reserve player on the Chicago Bulls 1996 championship team, died on Monday due to heart disease, ESPN is reporting. He was 51. Former Bulls teammate Scottie Pippen expressed condolences via Twitter: "Very sorry to hear my old teammate, Jack Haley, has passed away. Great guy who I stayed in touch with over the years. RIP." (Photo: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Mayweather-Pacquiao Winner to Get New $1 Million WBC Belt - The winner of the May 2nd mega bout between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will take home the brand new WBC belt, made of onyx and emerald, and worth nearly $1 million, TMZ Sports is reporting. The belt has emblems of the figthers' faces, as well as a headshot of Muhammad Ali on it.(Photo: Boxing Insider via Twitter)

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Mayweather-Pacquiao Winner to Get New $1 Million WBC Belt - The winner of the May 2nd mega bout between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will take home the brand new WBC belt, made of onyx and emerald, and worth nearly $1 million, TMZ Sports is reporting. The belt has emblems of the figthers' faces, as well as a headshot of Muhammad Ali on it.(Photo: Boxing Insider via Twitter)

Dwyane Wade, Heat Defeat LeBron James in Miami - Dwyane Wade just won't let friend and former teammate LeBron James win in Miami any more. Wade had 32 points and five steals to lead the Miami Heat to a 106-92 home win over James's Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday night. Miami is currently eighth in the Eastern Conference, owning an identical 30-36 record to the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics. "For this team, it's about fighting for the playoffs right now," Wade told the Associated Press. "Every day, we in, we out, we in, we out, so we needed this win today."(Photo: Hector Gabino/El Nuevo Herald/Miami Herald/ TNS /LANDOV)

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Dwyane Wade, Heat Defeat LeBron James in Miami - Dwyane Wade just won't let friend and former teammate LeBron James win in Miami any more. Wade had 32 points and five steals to lead the Miami Heat to a 106-92 home win over James's Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday night. Miami is currently eighth in the Eastern Conference, owning an identical 30-36 record to the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics. "For this team, it's about fighting for the playoffs right now," Wade told the Associated Press. "Every day, we in, we out, we in, we out, so we needed this win today."(Photo: Hector Gabino/El Nuevo Herald/Miami Herald/ TNS /LANDOV)

Report: Eagles Pass on Tim Tebow - The Philadelphia Eagles worked out Tim Tebow on Monday, but a source tells ESPN that the team doesn't plan on signing the former NFL quarterback. Tebow last participated in the New England Patriots' training camp before being released in August 2013. Tebow's only seasons in the NFL were from 2010-12.(Photo: Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

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Report: Eagles Pass on Tim Tebow - The Philadelphia Eagles worked out Tim Tebow on Monday, but a source tells ESPN that the team doesn't plan on signing the former NFL quarterback. Tebow last participated in the New England Patriots' training camp before being released in August 2013. Tebow's only seasons in the NFL were from 2010-12.(Photo: Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Rory McIlroy to Replace Tiger Woods as Face of Video Game - An unofficial passing of the torch in golf? Rory McIlroy is the cover subject of EA Sports's new video game, Rory McIlroy PGA Tour, the Associated Press is reporting. Previously, EA Sports had built its series of golf video games around Tiger Woods from 1998-2013. McIlroy and Woods even shared the cover of one of EA's video games in 2011.(Photos from left: David Cannon/Getty Images, Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

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Rory McIlroy to Replace Tiger Woods as Face of Video Game - An unofficial passing of the torch in golf? Rory McIlroy is the cover subject of EA Sports's new video game, Rory McIlroy PGA Tour, the Associated Press is reporting. Previously, EA Sports had built its series of golf video games around Tiger Woods from 1998-2013. McIlroy and Woods even shared the cover of one of EA's video games in 2011.(Photos from left: David Cannon/Getty Images, Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

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Hawks, Warriors Clinch Playoff Spots - The Golden State Warriors clinched a playoff spot via a 108-105 road win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night. The Dubs (53-13) join the Atlanta Hawks (54-14) as the only teams to clinch playoff berths. Both teams now look to lock up their respective conferences while trying to attain home court advantage through the entire playoffs.(Photos from left: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images, Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

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Hawks, Warriors Clinch Playoff Spots - The Golden State Warriors clinched a playoff spot via a 108-105 road win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night. The Dubs (53-13) join the Atlanta Hawks (54-14) as the only teams to clinch playoff berths. Both teams now look to lock up their respective conferences while trying to attain home court advantage through the entire playoffs.(Photos from left: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images, Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Mets' Wheeler Out for Season With Torn Elbow Ligament - Devastating news for the New York Mets. ESPN is reporting that right-handed pitcher Zack Wheeler will be out for the entire 2015 season due to a torn ligament in his pitching elbow, which requires Tommy John surgery. Wheeler was supposed to be a key component in the Mets' pitching rotation this season.(Photo: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

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Mets' Wheeler Out for Season With Torn Elbow Ligament - Devastating news for the New York Mets. ESPN is reporting that right-handed pitcher Zack Wheeler will be out for the entire 2015 season due to a torn ligament in his pitching elbow, which requires Tommy John surgery. Wheeler was supposed to be a key component in the Mets' pitching rotation this season.(Photo: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

UConn Claims Top Overall Seed in 2015 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament - Already a dynasty, Geno Auriemma's University of Connecticut Huskies have been named the No. 1 seed in the women's basketball NCAA Tournament. They'll be seeking their third straight national title and tenth overall title.(Photo: Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)

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UConn Claims Top Overall Seed in 2015 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament - Already a dynasty, Geno Auriemma's University of Connecticut Huskies have been named the No. 1 seed in the women's basketball NCAA Tournament. They'll be seeking their third straight national title and tenth overall title.(Photo: Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)

Pete Rose Requests MLB Commissioner to Lift Lifetime Ban - Pete Rose has formally requested that Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred lift the Majors' lifetime ban on him, ESPN is reporting. Manfred told ESPN that he intends to meet with the all-time hits leader and consider his request based "on its merits." Rose, 73, has 4,256 hits. A possible reinstatement to baseball could pave the way for a Hall of Fame induction for Rose.(Photo: Christopher Pasatieri/Getty Images)

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Pete Rose Requests MLB Commissioner to Lift Lifetime Ban - Pete Rose has formally requested that Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred lift the Majors' lifetime ban on him, ESPN is reporting. Manfred told ESPN that he intends to meet with the all-time hits leader and consider his request based "on its merits." Rose, 73, has 4,256 hits. A possible reinstatement to baseball could pave the way for a Hall of Fame induction for Rose.(Photo: Christopher Pasatieri/Getty Images)

Serge Ibaka to Have Knee Surgery - Already playing without Kevin Durant, the Oklahoma City Thunder can ill afford to have any more costly injuries. But that's the hand they've been dealt, as ESPN is reporting that power forward Serge Ibaka will have a knee surgery to treat soreness and clean-out whatever damage is present. As of now, it isn't clear when Ibaka will be able to return to the court, but the team is aiming to have him back for the postseason.(Photo: Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

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Serge Ibaka to Have Knee Surgery - Already playing without Kevin Durant, the Oklahoma City Thunder can ill afford to have any more costly injuries. But that's the hand they've been dealt, as ESPN is reporting that power forward Serge Ibaka will have a knee surgery to treat soreness and clean-out whatever damage is present. As of now, it isn't clear when Ibaka will be able to return to the court, but the team is aiming to have him back for the postseason.(Photo: Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

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No. 1 Kentucky Top Odds at Even to Win 2015 NCAA Tournament - Las Vegas sportsbooks have Kentucky, the true overall No. 1 seed, as even money to win the 2015 NCAA Tournament. The undefeated 34-0 Wildcats have top odds over fellow No. 1 seeds Villanova, Wisconsin and Duke.(Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

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No. 1 Kentucky Top Odds at Even to Win 2015 NCAA Tournament - Las Vegas sportsbooks have Kentucky, the true overall No. 1 seed, as even money to win the 2015 NCAA Tournament. The undefeated 34-0 Wildcats have top odds over fellow No. 1 seeds Villanova, Wisconsin and Duke.(Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Houston Rockets Spoil Blake Griffin's Return - James Harden had 34 points, seven rebounds and seven assists to lead the Houston Rockets to a 100-98 road win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, spoiling the return of Blake Griffin. The Clippers power forward had missed 15 games after surgery to extract a staph infection in his right elbow. He had 11 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists through 40 minutes in the game.(Photo: Victor Decolongon/Getty Images)

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Houston Rockets Spoil Blake Griffin's Return - James Harden had 34 points, seven rebounds and seven assists to lead the Houston Rockets to a 100-98 road win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, spoiling the return of Blake Griffin. The Clippers power forward had missed 15 games after surgery to extract a staph infection in his right elbow. He had 11 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists through 40 minutes in the game.(Photo: Victor Decolongon/Getty Images)

Cavaliers Roll to Victory Without Kevin Love - Giving Kevin Love the day off to rest, the Cleveland Cavaliers still cruised to a 123-108 road win over the Orlando Magic on Sunday. LeBron James led the way for the Cavs with 21 points, 13 assists and eight rebounds. Afterward, Cavs coach David Blatt explained to ESPN why he sat Love. "Just felt like he needed a little bit of rest," Blatt said. "It's part of what we've been trying to do during the course of the year."(Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux)

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Cavaliers Roll to Victory Without Kevin Love - Giving Kevin Love the day off to rest, the Cleveland Cavaliers still cruised to a 123-108 road win over the Orlando Magic on Sunday. LeBron James led the way for the Cavs with 21 points, 13 assists and eight rebounds. Afterward, Cavs coach David Blatt explained to ESPN why he sat Love. "Just felt like he needed a little bit of rest," Blatt said. "It's part of what we've been trying to do during the course of the year."(Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux)

Vikings Land Mike Wallace in Trade, Release Greg Jennings - The Minnesota Vikings released Greg Jennings this weekend just two years after they signed the wide receiver to a five-year, $45 million deal in 2013, ESPN reported. The underwhelming Jennings became expendable after the Vikings landed wideout Mike Wallace in a trade with the Miami Dolphins also on Saturday.  (Photo: Rob Foldy/Getty Images)

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Vikings Land Mike Wallace in Trade, Release Greg Jennings - The Minnesota Vikings released Greg Jennings this weekend just two years after they signed the wide receiver to a five-year, $45 million deal in 2013, ESPN reported. The underwhelming Jennings became expendable after the Vikings landed wideout Mike Wallace in a trade with the Miami Dolphins also on Saturday.  (Photo: Rob Foldy/Getty Images)

Joakim Noah Remains on a Minutes Limit - Why didn't Joakim Noah play more late in what turned out to be an Oklahoma City Thunder 109-100 win over the Chicago Bulls on Sunday? Simple the way Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau explains it. "I ran out of minutes with him," Thibodeau told ESPN. "But I thought Jo played a very good game for us." Noah has been on a regular-season playing limit of 32 minutes — set by the Bulls' front office — since having knee surgery last May.(Photo: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

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Joakim Noah Remains on a Minutes Limit - Why didn't Joakim Noah play more late in what turned out to be an Oklahoma City Thunder 109-100 win over the Chicago Bulls on Sunday? Simple the way Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau explains it. "I ran out of minutes with him," Thibodeau told ESPN. "But I thought Jo played a very good game for us." Noah has been on a regular-season playing limit of 32 minutes — set by the Bulls' front office — since having knee surgery last May.(Photo: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Richard Jefferson Scammed Out of $2 million - NBA veteran Richard Jefferson was allegedly scammed out of $2 million from his bank account by his former business manager. TMZ Sports is reporting that the FBI has launched an investigation into the Dallas Mavericks forward's missing funds. (Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

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Richard Jefferson Scammed Out of $2 million - NBA veteran Richard Jefferson was allegedly scammed out of $2 million from his bank account by his former business manager. TMZ Sports is reporting that the FBI has launched an investigation into the Dallas Mavericks forward's missing funds. (Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)