Mateo’s Hoop Diary: The Mercury fell to a 3-0 hole in the WNBA Finals

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The Aces closed the Mercury’s coffin, and all they have left to do is shovel dirt over it to win the title. It was obvious that A’ja Wilson would get the ball on the last possession at five seconds left of a stalemate, and the hosts couldn’t stop her from burying a turnaround jumper. Just 0.3 seconds remained- only enough time for a lob- that DeWanna Bonner bricked. 

 

Tough scene for Phoenix. They couldn’t stop Wilson, who hasn’t failed to live up to her name in one series this postseason and had six of her 34 digits in the fourth quarter. And more of the same from Alyssa Thomas, who has not been dependable late in games of the Finals, starting with folding at the line with 24.6 seconds left of Game 1. The latter was a threat before intermission, but only had three points on 33% shooting in the second half.

 

The hosts went down double digits in the first half, partly because they gave up seven uncontested treys, then got bailed out by Satou Sabally, and were in trouble again in the fourth quarter.  A 17-7 Mercury run ensued that was capped with DeWanna Bonner’s vintage scoring to force another tie in the last minute.  But it wasn’t meant to be, and the public saw their emotions bleed onto the court as they awkwardly huddled into a circle, as the Aces did in celebration on the other side. 

 

Adding insult to injury, Sabally’s status is in question after getting smacked in the face by Kierstan Bell’s leg on a fall. She left Game 3 with four minutes left. 

 

Coach Nate Tibbetts mentioned “looking inside yourself” and competing, but it might as well have been the speech a chaplain gives a prisoner before execution. No sane person gives them a chance to win out, and I suspect they don’t even believe they can either.  

 

Thomas said it took Phoenix too long to wake up and guard. It’s taken her too long to notice that sometimes the right play is for herself and not others. 

 

Hopefully, commissioner Cathy Engelbert doesn’t show favoritism to the champs when it’s over by wearing a dress with their city on it, as she did last for New York.

 

2025 NBA Draft Over/under drafted: Who should have gone earlier, later?

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Digital Adel with his assessments of overdrafted and underdrafted players:

 

Cooper Flagg (Dallas Mavericks) (Just right)

6’8 221lbs from Duke was taken right where he should be. He is a borderline generational talent who dominated all area’s of the game in college. He averaged 19.2 points per game, 7.5 rebs 4.2 assists and 1.4blks. Standing at 6’9 and 221 lbs his defensive versatility is off the charts.  Flagg is switchable on the perimeter and with his unreal 8’10 standing reach coupled with a 7’ wingspan he can size up or down as needed. Flagg shot 38.5% from three-point land in college. That was the big question mark coming into the season and he answered it resoundingly. If you are an analytics guy, he dominates those also. Aneye popping 30.4 per, 126.3 ORTG, 89.5 DRTG and a unbelievable 16.3 BPM. 

 

Dylan Harper (San Antonio Spurs) (Just Right)

Dylan out of Rutgers who had a disappointing season as a team went 15 wins and 17 losses. It was baffling considering they had 2 top 10 picks on the team from the 2025 NBA Draft. He did it all for that team. The 6’6 213lbs PG averaged 19.4 pts , 4.6 rebs and 4.0 asts per game. He is an elite ball handler and downhill rim pressure guy. He had a DFG% of 54.6. Once he got into the paint it was over. His passing numbers are misleading because outside of Ace Bailey his fellow lottery pick the team lacked ability to finish inside or outside. Harper possesses elite POA defense and unique ability to get out in passing lanes for easy steals. He averaged 1.4 steals per game. Harpers biggest weakness is his jump shot. He drifts at times and his release is very low. He shot 33.3 from deep and only 75% from the foul line. If he can clean up his release point and stay on balance the sky is truly the limit for this kid. 

 

VJ Edgecombe (Philadelphia 76ers) (over-drafted)

VJ 6’5 193lbs out of Baylor may be the most explosive athlete in the class. He struggled early in the season to control his ability. He really started to come into his own as the season went on. He averaged 15pts, 5.6 rebs, and 3.2asts per game. His jumper needs work but it also got better as the season went on. He shot 34% from deep and 78% from the foul line. His biggest separator in this draft is his defensive ability making him a legit 2 way threat. He boasts some of the best advanced metrics in the class. He has a OBPM of 7.1, DBPM 4.3 and BPM 11.4. Tre Johnson could end up being special, which is why I would have taken him ahead of VJ although that is no slight to his talent

 

Kon Knueppel (Charolette Hornets) (over-drafted)

The 6’6 219lbs guard out of Duke is one of my favorite prospects in the draft. He does a little bit of everything and a lot of it at an elite level. He shot 40.6% from deep, 91.4% from the foul line and an impressive EFG of 59%. He isn’t just good at offense he’s elite. He rebounds 4.7 per game and dishes 3.2 asts while only turning it over 1.6 times per game. When you couple that with his advanced metrics defensively DBPM 3.9 his overall BPM is 10.8. The biggest concern at the next level is his foot speed but he beat the close out every time in college and more than held his own POA. When switched on to bigger players he was a brick wall in the post. You aren’t moving him off his spot.  The only reason he is over drafted is Tre Johnson

 

Ace Bailey ( Utah Jazz) (over-drafted) 

The 6’10 200lbs forward out of Rutgers is extremely talented. He averaged 17.6ppg, 7.2 rebs and 1.3 asts in his freshman season. He is one of the best tough shot makers in the class. He has real shot blocking potential 1.3blks per game. Why is he under-drafted? “I ain’t got not weaknesses, and I got more than two strengths, big dog,” Bailey replied on the ESPN combine broadcast. This is a stunning lack of maturity from a kid who’s team went 13-17 while having two top 10 picks on the roster. Tre Johnson is the reason for Ace being over-drafted

 

Tre Johnson ( Washington Wizards) (under-drafted) 

6’5 190lbs guard out of Texas may end up being one of the best players in the entire class. What separates him from the rest of the competition is his work ethic and leadership. The freshman led every huddle and according to his coaches had to be held back from working out 2 hours before and after games. Johnson is one of the best shooters in the class averaging 19.9 points per game, 3.1rebs and 2.7asts  in college. He can handle, rebound and facilitate better than people think. He is more athletic than he was able to show in college due to the tremendous workload on him as the number 1 option.  He is my pick to win rookie of the year in an upset over Dylan and Coop. 

 

Jeremiah Fears ( New Orleans Pelicans) ( Just right)

6’3 180lbs guard out of Oklahoma is exactly what the doctor ordered for the Pelicans. He averaged 17.1 ppg, 4.1 rebs and 4.1 asts. He is quick as a hiccup and get to any spot on the floor he wants. The departer of more veteran ball handlers and creators should get Fears on the floor sooner rather than later. If Zion can get healthy, Trey Murphy’s emergence and Missi continue to ascend the Pelicans could have a core moving forward. He has a lot to prove defensively, his passing accuracy needs work, and his shooting is a big area of improvement that will be needed.

 

Egor Demin (Brooklyn Nets) (Over-drafted)

6’8 199lbs guard out of BYU averaged 10.6ppg, 3.9rebs and 5.5asts in college. I was summarily unimpressed with Egor his freshman year. He showed a lack of lateral agility. He struggled finishing at the rim and through contact. His three-point shooting really left a lot to be desired. He shot a poultry 41.2% from the field and 27.3% from deep. When you have a team like Brooklyn who needs everything. They passed on scoring talent like Cedric Coward, defensive talent like Carter Bryant and in my opinion a better all-around PG in Kasparas Jakucionis. 

 

Collin Murray Boyles (Toronto Raptors) (Over-drafted) 

6’7 240lbs forward out of South Carolina is undersized for the position. His defensive versatility is going to be the key to his career. He doesn’t shoot the rock very well and that is what makes him over drafted to me. A large portion of the college season. He wasn’t very noticeable. He really came on strong later. He can handle the ball a little, but it isn’t a great handle. I have a lot of concerns about his fit and what role he will play. He is a very raptors type pick, so I am not surprised. I would have selected Khaman Maluach, Thomas Sorber and Joan Beringer over Boyles. 

 

Khaman Maluach (Pheonix Suns) (Under-drafted)

7’1 253lbs center out of Duke has a monster wingspan, great hands and a nonstop motor. The freshman averaged only 8.6 ppg, 6.6rebs and 1.3blks per game. These numbers are a little misleading since he played on a team with 4 other NBA caliber players. He was mainly a lob threat offensively. He showed he could play more than drop but didn’t need to with that group. He was a presence in the middle but needs to get stronger.

 

Cedric Coward (Memphis Grizzlies) (Over-drafted)

6’5 213lbs forward from Washington State is an outstanding scoring talent.  He can score from the low block as well as spot up from deep. He averaged 17.7 ppg, 7rebs, and 3.7 asts. You must be wondering how he is over drafted. The issue lies in his career arc. He has only played in 17 division I basketball games due to injury. He started out in division III and worked his way up. This limited sample size gives me plenty of hesitation. His lack of a handle and defensive chops make this a big swing. He can defend but it is unproven. His wingspan is a major plus at 7’2. Carter Bryant would have been my pick.

 

Noa Essengue (Chicago Bulls) (Over-drafted)

6’9 194lbs forward who played in Germany is a conundrum to me. I have heard people laud his athleticism. Watching the film, I came away unimpressed. He is athletic but not top tier. His lack of strength is noticeable where he gets overpowered often. He doesn’t handle the ball well enough to make up for it. His three-point shooting is wildly inconsistent shooting a poultry 29.4% from deep. Drik Queen, Sorber, Beringer all still on the board makes this a major overdraft.

 

Derik Queen (New Orleans Pelicans) (over-drafted) 

6’9 248lbs center out of Marland was picked too high considering the fit with Yves Missi is very poor. Queen’s lack of shooting ability will make the two playing together nearly impossible. Queen can handle the rock but not well enough to create at the next level off the bounce. He is very strong but isn’t a great rebounder either. If he can’t space the floor, I don’t see a path to ever starting. He shot the ball extremely poorly in college from deep 20% on very low volume. Danny Wolf would have been the perfect complement to Missi.

 

Carter Bryant (San Antonio Spurs) (Under-drafted)

6’7 215lbs wing from Arizona is an outstanding get for the Spurs this late in the draft. His defensive ability to go with a group that already includes Stephon Castle, Dylan Harper and Dearon Fox is an absolute steal. His switchable defensive ability will allow him to fill a role while his offensive game catches up. He is electric in the open floor and attacks the rack. His biggest challenge will be to bring his shooting consistency up. He averaged only 6.5 ppg but shot 46% from the field, 37% from deep even if on low volume. He will be a plug and play 3& D guy. 

 

Thomas Sorber (Oklahoma City Thunder) (Under-Drafted)

6-9 263lbs one of the largest wingspans in the entire class at 7’6 Sorber is a man child. He was really coming into his own in college dominating the paint offensively and defensively. He averaged 14.5ppg, 8.5rebs, 2.4asts, 2blks and 1.5 steals per game. His season unfortunately was cut short due to a foot injury. This is likely what caused him to slide in the draft. Beware big men with bad feet. The freshman big to me was the second best in the class. This makes him under drafted to me. You take a chance on a guy like that. There is no situation I select Boyles, Essengue, Queen ahead of this guy. Unless the medical evaluations came back horrendous. He landed in the perfect spot where he could heal and not be forced back into action too soon. 

 

Yang Hansen (Portland Trailblazers) (Over-drafted)

7’1 249lbs out of China is an amazing passer at his size and position. He is extremely skilled on the low block and can stretch the floor a little as well. My concerns with Yang are defensively he isn’t very good; athleticism and strength are all below average at the next level. He is an intriguing player for sure but with Danny Wolf and Beringer on the board. There were better options to play alongside Donvan Clingan. 

 

Joan Beringer (Minnesota Timberwolves) (Over-drafted)

6’11 230lbs French center played basketball in Slovenia is a defensive monster in the making. He is much stronger than his 230lbs frame would suggest. I believe he can put on even more muscle at the next level. The only reason I say he is over drafted is because his offensive game is so far behind. Danny Wolf is a better all-around player that has such a unique skill set. I see it hard to pass up on when looking for a big, especially at this point in the draft. Expect his offensive contributions to be primarily lobs. He has a nice touch on his jump hook but not much in the low block bag and nothing on the outside. 

 

Walter Clayton Jr (Utah Jazz) (Over-drafted)

6’2 199lbs played for the National Champion Florida Gators in college. He is a dynamic self-creating shooting Point Guard. The first thing that stood out on tape was his flawless balance every time he got into a shot. When he took people off the bounce, off screens, step backs, side steps and any other type of shot. His form is flawless. The issue lies in his size, lack of lateral burst, facilitating ability and defensive lapses. I had Jakucionis, Jase Richardson, and Ben Saraf all above Clayton on my big board. 

 

Nolan Traore’ (Brooklyn Nets) (Under-drafted)

6’5 175lbs Point guard out of France is an elite facilitator and has run a pro-offense. He gives more height than Clayton but about the same lack of defensive ability. He is extremely quick and excels in the open floor. His shooting improved as the year went on, but the percentage overall was not good at 30.4% from deep. He also struggled finishing at the rim but got better as the year went on. This is close but I still believe he is the better overall prospect. 

 

Kasparas Jakucionis (Miami Heat) (Under-drafted)

6’5 205lbs guard played for the university of Illinois last season. Few players were tasked with more responsibilities throughout the season to carry their team. He was a threat every night and was 8th on my big board. He averaged 15ppg, 5.7 rebs, and 4.7asts. He played through injuries and began to wear down later in the season. One of the biggest things in his film was his lack of creativity off the bounce. His PNR reads went where drills told them the ball should go instead of reading it organically. This caused a lot of his turnovers. However, he is much better defensively than people give him credit and his foot work playing off two feet is special. He has a few things to clean up with is jumper shooting only 32% from deep but I believe he can shoot it at a high level. 

 

Will Riley (Washington Wizards) (Over-drafted)

6’8 186lbs wing out of Illinois is as skinny as they come. He really will need to develop his body to be successful at the next level. He can handle the ball for his size but lacks elite burst to get by defenders on the outside. He struggled shooting the rock from deep at 32.6% in college. I would have selected Nique Clifford over Riley. The Wizards are all in on youth but a little experience to round out the roster of young talent wouldn’t have been a bad thing. 

 

Drake Powell (Brooklyn Nets) (Over-drafted)

6’6 195lbs guard from North Carolina makes you think but this is not that guy. Powell is a defensive specialist who can shoot it a little bit. He has long arms but no handles, shot creation ability or facilitation chops. He is aggressive and will make his mark offensively in the open floor. The rest will have to come with development. His stats were meager at 7.4 ppg, 3.4rebs, and 1.1asts per game. Powell on limited volume shot 48.3% from the field and 37.9% from deep. In the GM seat I am taking Jase Richardson, Hugo Gonzalez or Nique Clifford over Powell every time. 

 

Asa Newell (Atlanta Hawks) (Under-drafted)

6’9 224lbs center out of Georgia is a sudden athlete. When he decides to raise up for a dunk he gets off the floor in a hurry and with force. This is something you cannot teach. He averaged 15.4 ppg, 6.9rebs, 1blks on 54% shooting from the field. He has worked hard on his outside shot. He ended up only 29% from deep but became much better as the year went on. As much as I like Yang on offense or Beringer on defense. Newell seems to be slept on compared to his peers. Teams may end up regretting passing on him.

 

Nique Clifford (Sacramento Kings) (Under-drafted) 

6’5 202lbs explosive wing out of Colorado state was taken lower in the draft in my opinion due to his age not a lack of NBA translatable skills. Will Riley, Drake Powell and others are far behind his offensive skills inside and outside the paint. He is a slasher, creator, and defender that any team could use. The other teams bet on potential rather than what was right in front of them. Clifford as a 5th year senior averaged 18.9ppg, 9.6rebs and 4.4asts per game. He has electric straight-line speed in the open court and excellent athleticism to match. He shot 38% from deep in college but that will not be the bulk of his offensive impact. 

 

Jase Richardson (Orlando Magic) (Under-drafted)

6’1 178lbs guard out of Michigan State may be undersized but plays much bigger than his frame. He is an excellent off ball slasher, spots up from deep and has more on ball ability than he was able to consistently show under Tom Izzo’s 1990’s style offense. Jase averaged 16.1 ppg, 4.6 rebs and 1.7asts per game. His point of attack defense was above the line night in and night out. I truly believe if he was 2inches taller he would have been a top 13 pick.

 

Ben Saraf (Brookyln Nets) (Under-drafted)

6’6 201lbs point guard played in Germany where he lead his team to the finals. The nets in one of the most bizarre drafts in recent memory keep stashing point guards. Saraf has excellent positional size that is sure to draw fouls at the NBA level. He his extremely quick and fast off the bounce. He gets wherever he wants usually that is going left. He rebounds well and facilitates well. His jump shot needs a lot of work. The bulk of his issues lie in his footwork. His balance and placement of his feet prior to getting into his shot cause tons of balance issues. There are flashes of next level court awareness. Things to clean up sure, needs to work to be a consistent POA defender, absolutely. That said, he was 14th on my big board. The nets got a steal.

 

Danny Wolf (Brooklyn Nets) (Under-drafted)

6’11 252lbs center from Michigan is more point guard than center. His ability to handle the basketball and facilitate his size is extremely rare. How other NBA teams passed on him this far is astounding. He averaged 13.2 ppg, 9.7 rebs, and 3.6 asts per game. His unique ability to take people off the bounce truly didn’t peak until later in the season. He confidently was taking guards to the rack from the top of the key. He was making high level reads. His 3point shooting needs work but he has a soft touch. His footwork is clean. The shooting mechanics from the waist up is the issue. 

 

Hugo Gonzalez (Boston Celtics) (Just right)

6’6 205lbs wing out of Spain was a tough evaluation. He played sparsely the entire season. When he did, he showed flashes of elite athleticism and a nice feel for the game. The playoff game he logged his most minutes of the season really gave his team a spark. You could see the traits and potential. It sold me on his game. He handles the ball well for his size. He has an NBA ready body. His shooting needs work but has a nice stroke that will come around with reps. The big question is will he spend the season in the GLeague or contribute off the bench with Tatum out with an Achillies injury in 2025

 

Liam McNeely (Charlotte Hornets) (Just right)

6’7 215lbs guard out of Connecticut really is all about his potential. In college he was labeled a shooter. He didn’t live up to that billing. He shot 38.1% from the field and 31.7% from deep. He has nice form but he was never able to put it together. He lacked burst to create separation in college, and I could see the same at the next level. However, he does so many different things, rebounding 6 per game, assists 2.3 per game and drawing fouls 4.7 per game. This will allow him to be a useful piece to develop. If the shooting comes around. The hornets could really have something. 

 

Yanic Niederhauser (Las Angeles Clippers) (Over-drafted)

6’11 243 center out of Penn State is a lob threat every time he touches the floor. However, he is a project of the highest order. His court awareness needs developing. His POA defense is nonexistent. He will be a full time drop defender. This will limit your ability to switch up coverages. Assistant Coach Jeff Van Gundy will have his work cut out for him there. The one thing Yanic can do is block shots. He can average 2.3 blocks per game to lead the big ten. This is also a downfall because he jumps at everything. This leads him to be out of position and pick up fouls quickly. He doesn’t stretch the floor at all. If I was looking for a big this late in the draft I would have considered Maxime Raynaud, Rocco Zikarsky or my personal favorite Lachlan Olbrich. 

 

Sources: Sports Reference | Sports Stats, fast, easy, and up-to-date | Sports-Reference.com

2025 NBA Draft Results: Picks 1-59 | NBA.com

u/hoopsprofile – 2025 NBA Draft Big Board Final | Fanspo

Photo credit: Sam Navarro, Imagn

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young took over Game 2 of the Finals, putting Las Vegas ahead 2-0 going to Phoenix

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Jackie Young is public enemy no.1 in Phoenix after lashing the Mercury for 21 of her 32 points in the third quarter, the most in any 10-minute interval in WNBA Finals history, and helping the Aces take an enormous 2-0 lead.  

 

The Aces smothered the visitors before intermission as A’ja Wilson sullied schemes and quickly took a double-digit lead in the third. Young erupted then, converting long jumpers, drive-bys and freebies. 

 

They could have started the plane early because the Mercury never cut their deficit below eight for the rest of the period and they were shattered starting the fourth below 15. Subsequently Jewell Loyd, whose season began as a turbulent ride, connected on a right-side triple to start the fourth that emotionally felt like a leg hook that breaks a jaw. Many times when it gets this ugly in the ring, a corner will throw in the towel or the ref will show mercy and intervene, but the Mercury were not so fortunate. 

 

Kahleah Copper was invisible in the fourth, and Satou Sabally’s 10 digits hardly made a dent as the Aces matched them. On top of that, Alyssa Thomas followed up on her late-game failure in the series opener with minuscule impact in the second half: two points on two attempts, with four helpings and two steals. She ran from the line and was predictable, always looking for the pass.

 

But Game 2 started getting away from Phoenix midway through the second quarter. The Aces held them 10 points on a skimpy 27.8% shooting, which included zero connections from deep in seven tries.

 

Coach Becky Hammon said winning with below-average performances from Wilson and Young makes them tough, but they looked far from that description. Both powered up at the right time and stayed out of each other’s way for maximum potency. They finished with the second-most combined points (60) by a duo in WNBA Finals history. 

 

Game 3 is on Wednesday. Reputations for the Phoenix squad are on the line because the Aces sized them up, and they look like they’ve figured them out.  One side prepares for redemption and the other for an execution.



Touchdown pass to Darren Waller helped the Dolphins to a big early lead at Carolina, but then they stopped throwing to him.

Pressure Point: Dolphins’ collapse at Carolina signals change inevitable

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The Miami Dolphins lost a lot when Tyreek Hill blew out his knee in week 4.

His absence is not the reason the Dolphins’ season is a lost cause five weeks in following a dispiriting 27-24 loss Sunday at Carolina.

Not with the timely arrival of another former All-Pro receiver, Darren Waller, providing a dynamic new weapon for Tua Tagovailoa (5 receptions for 78 yards and a touchdown). And with Jaylen Waddle doing his part to fill the void (6 catches for 110 yards including a 46-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter).

No, the absolute failure of this poorly constructed Dolphins team isn’t about having enough play makers on offense.

It’s about the must fundamental aspect of the game. If you can’t man up on at the line of scrimmage, you’re a pushover.

The Dolphins have been just that, bowled over and bludgeoned on both sides of the ball, week after week.

Dolphins out-muscled at line of scrimmage

Two stark numbers succinctly summarize how the Dolphins lost this battle of 1-3 teams after building a 17-0 lead:

Miami mustered only 19 yards rushing on 14 attempts.

Carolina rushed for 239 yards on 32 attempts.

It was a simple matter of brute force and the ability (and will) to block and tackle. Each category was no contest in favor of the Panthers.

Carolina achieved that despite missing starting running back Chuba Hubbard. That proved no impediment with backup Rico Dowdle running wild for 206 yards while averaging 9 yards a carry.

Dowdle went 53 yards untouched around the right side before Mincah Fitzpatrick made a touchdown-saving tackle on one third-quarter run.

There is no apparent solution to the inability to run the ball or stop the opponent from doing so.

No easy fixes for Dolphins’ shortcomings

These are the players that were chosen to fill this deeply flawed roster. It’s not a matter of watching the video and making adjustments. This group simply is not good enough.

The gap just to attain mediocrity is a wide chasm.

Consequently, the Collapse at Carolina has the look of a regime-ending defeat. It’s a matter of when, not if, heads will roll.

The remainder of the season will be more about what team owner Steve Ross decides to do than about how coaches and players adjust. Because drastic change is inevitable now.

While fans are chanting for firings, beginning with the coach and general manager, the state of the franchise is disheartening for everyone who still cares about it.

The latest so-called rebuilding effort, convened after the 2019 season, has produced nothing more than two one-and-done playoff appearances. This season is destined to be the second in a row without an extra game.

The drought without a postseason win since 2000 is no closer to ending. It will be a long climb from starting over again.

Dolphins squander early lead

Sunday’s loss was a prime example of how the Dolphins build up hopes, only to let their followers down. They took advantage of two turnovers by Panthers quarterback Bryce Young to build a 17-0 lead.

But after Waller caught a 4-yard pass from Tua in the back of the end zone early in the second quarter, the big tight end wasn’t targeted again the rest of the game.

Meanwhile, the Panthers realized they could run with ease through Anthony Weaver’s defense and the outcome appeared inevitable even while the Dolphins clung to the lead.

Tagovailoa, as he often does, won the stats game with 256 yards passing, three touchdowns and a 122.0 passer rating. But his day ended with a high throw off Waddle’s fingertips and a sack.

Ultimately, his accomplishments in the game — including the long TD heave to Waddle to reclaim the lead with less than five minutes remaining — had a hollow ring, much like his career.

Watching it unfold was like witnessing a crash in slow motion. With 12 games left to be played out, it remains to be seen how much of the audience bothers to keep watching.

Craig Davis has covered South Florida sports and teams, including the Dolphins, for more than four decades. Follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @CraigDavisRuns.

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: Alyssa Thomas missed two late free throws, and the Mercury let go of Game 1 of the Finals in Las Vegas

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The game rested in Alyssa Thomas’ hands as she stepped to the line down one with 24.6 seconds left, but she gagged both attempts. The Mercury lost 89-86 moments after blanking a poorly designed sideline out-of-bounds play.

 

Somewhere, Nick Anderson let out a sigh of relief at being replaced as a late-game choker. The blunder was the equivalent of a boxer having an opponent wounded in the corner, and then getting knocked out before finishing the job. 

 

Now one is left to wonder how much psychological damage this will inflict on Phoenix. And considering Thomas’ below-average accuracy in the regular season and playoffs at the welfare line, the Aces may want her there again late in Game 2.

 

 Kahleah Copper’s sweet-shooting first half, and Thomas’ work in that time getting to the cylinder became a footnote of history. Instead, Aj’a Wilson’s late six points, Dana Evans’ three enormous triples, and Jackie Young’s go-ahead freebies will be remembered for saving the night in Game 1 of the WNBA’s first best-of-seven Finals.

 

Copper was asked at her postgame interview if she needed to do anything to console Thomas, but she responded, “Nah. She good.”

 

But I don’t know if she was. She looked scared senseless, like an apparition had appeared with a dire warning. The first miss was so bad, it inspired zero confidence in thinking she’d make the second. Thomas did not attend the post-game press conference.

 

Of course, the series is far from over, and Phoenix is capable of winning on tour, as they did in New York and Minnesota during this postseason, yet the road to the Finals has revealed that the Aces are scarier than many imagined, including this scribe. 

 

Never forget how the Aces were dropped by Minnesota to 14-14, getting mowed down at home by 53. They were dead, then they won every game left (30-14), claimed the second seed and took out Seattle and Indiana. 

 

The Aces only made a third of their 3-point tries, and Young plus Wilson shot way below their averages. Some of that will continue because Phoenix is the bigger and more athletic team, but they can’t close another game shooting 33% in hostile territory and expect to go home with a stalemate. The Aces’ best players are too seasoned as back-to-back champions to make it anything short of a struggle until the end.

 

Satou Sabally needs to stay locked in because her outbursts, like the one that gave her a technical foul late, will make her a target.  But most importantly, Thomas owes the Mercury a game, and so does Copper for doing nada offensively in 10 fourth-quarter minutes.



Tua Tagovailoa has thrived in coach Mike McDaniel's offense with the Miami Dolphins.

The Key’s to a Miami Dolphins Victory in Carolina

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Coming off of their first win of the 2025 season and the loss of their biggest superstar, the Miami Dolphins will look to stay on track as they travel to Bank of America Stadium to take on the Carolina Panthers.

For the Dolphins it’s about making a statement and getting their season back on track and for the Panthers it’s about responding and finding some consistency following two interesting football games.

So here are three keys to victory for the Miami Dolphins.

  1. Run the Ball: I have repeated this key each and every week of the Miami Dolphins season. And now with Tyreek Hill out it is even more important. The Miami Dolphins most talented offensive weapon is their tailback (Devon Achane) and the offensive line has done much better in run blocking versus pass blocking. Running the ball will enable the Dolphins to follow their success from last week in the play action game and help alleviate this offensive line. The Dolphins are top 10 in yards per attempt, but bottom 5 in rushing yards per game. Establish the run, control the clock.
  2. Pressure Bryce Young: Bryce Young has yet to show that he can be a top quarterback in this league. He struggles under pressure, turns the ball over, and will be without his top back this week (Chuba Hubbard). For the Dolphins, the pass rush that everyone raved about in the offseason has been nonexistent. Last week the Patriots got 4 quarterback hits and one sack on Young in their 42-13 rout. On top of pressuring Bryce Young, it will be essential for the Dolphins to contain first round pick Tet McMillan, the only true game changer the Panthers have.
  3. Get Malik Washington Involved: Malik Washington can do it all, and without Tyreek Hill I expect him to benefit most. Washington has been seen on punt/kick return, in the receiving game, and in the rushing game, even lining up in the backfield. Washington is dynamic and throws a good wrinkle in there, making it hard to contain the Dolphins offense.

Some other keys:

  • Win the turnover battle. The Dolphins generated their first turnovers last week and look, they won the game.
  • Time to let McDaniel and Tua shine. Without Tyreek, the Dolphins offense loses the over-the-top explosiveness, but this offense is still talented and could benefit in a way without Tyreek.

Miami will look to their next man up without Tyreek Hill and should be able to handle an inferior opponent. That being said it’s the NFL, and on any given Sunday, anyone can come out on top.

Dolphins Loss Chiefs

Longtime Dolphins Corner Xavien Howard Abruptly Retires

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While seeing Xavien Howard in a Colts jersey was a weird feeling, it didn’t last long. Howard had a rough start with the Colts and after four weeks he has abruptly retired. Howard made his announcement October first via his Instagram:

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Xavien Howard is arguably the best corner in Dolphin’s history, up there with franchise icons Patrick Surtain and Sam Madison. As a Dolphin Howard tallied:

  • Achievements: 5× Pro Bowl (2018, 2020-2022), First-team All-Pro (2020) 100 games
  • Stats: 29 interceptions, 4 touchdowns, 95 passes defended, 331 tackles

Over 100 games. Howard was a bright spot in the rough Dolphins years, forming a fierce duo with the likes of Byron Jones and Jalen Ramsey, holding down the Dolphin’s secondary. Howard was a playmaker, a ball hawk and should have been the defensive player of the year in his 2020 campaign where he recorded:

  •  10 interceptions (led NFL)  
  • 20 passes defended (led NFL)  
  • 1 forced fumble
  • 51 total tackles

Howard came third in the voting that year and led the Miami Dolphins to a top 10 defense.

Now Xavien Howard will get to spend more time with his kids and be a father. At 32 Howard has plenty ahead of him and will look forward to his next chapter in life.

After nearly a decade in the NFL, Howard believes he has “fulfilled his purpose” with football and it’s hard to argue against that. His 8 seasons in Miami contain some of the most dominant stretches from an NFL corner and make a strong case for the best tenure in Dolphin’s history.

A corner has yet to make the Miami Dolphins ring of honor, but it will be difficult not to make a case for Xavien Howard. Below are his best highlights. https://x.com/FinsPhanatics/status/1973516416528818230

Howard’s career might feel like it ended suddenly, but his place in Dolphin’s history is anything but fleeting. For nearly a decade, he was the heartbeat of Miami’s defense, the rare player who could tilt a game with one play. Few corners in the league could match his instincts and ability to bait quarterbacks into costly mistakes, and for Dolphins fans, his interceptions were often the lone sparks in otherwise lean years.

Whether or not he becomes the first cornerback in the team’s Ring of Honor, Howard has already secured something harder to earn–lasting respect from the fanbase and a spot in the conversation with the Dolphins’ all-time greats.

Why Cameron Wake Belongs in the Dolphins’ Ring of Honor

 

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: Labor champion Napheesa Collier epically rips WNBA leadership

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Napheesa Collier threw a grenade in Cathy Engelbert’s lap, undercutting her in such epic fashion that it left her scrambling for a weak response that doesn’t deny the harshest claims.

 

Collier accused Engelbert of 1. saying Caitlin Clark, of all people, should be “grateful” to the WNBA for her riches. 2. Alleged she said the ladies should be submitting on their knees because of the media rights deal Engelbert got them. And 3. Said the commish said that players who complain about refereeing are losers.

 

If all of this is true, Engelbert is miserably cosplaying David Stern, and it should mortify league partners. Examine her statement below:

 

“I have the utmost respect for Napheesa Collier and for all the players in the WNBA.

Together we have all worked tirelessly to transform this league. My focus remains on ensuring a bright future for the players and the WNBA, including collaborating on how we continue to elevate the game. I am disheartened by how Napheesa characterized our conversations and league leadership, but even when our perspectives differ, my commitment to the players and to this work will not waver.”

 

Collier said she anticipates a fine but might get suspended like her coach, Cheryl Reeve, did for going hard at the league. But her being one of the founding members of Unrivaled, the women’s professional three-versus-three league, headquartered in Miami, is a bigger threat to the W by the day. 

 

Recent fines to coaches Becky Hammon (Aces) and Stephanie White (Fever) for saying Reeve wasn’t lying and supporting her call for a change of leadership “at the league level when it comes to officiating” have added more gasoline to the standoff coming up at the upcoming CBA meetings. Goodness willing someone wears a wire and it leaks. 

 

And aside from Clark not needing the WNBA because she became one of the biggest stars on the planet at Iowa, and could’ve gone to wherever if she wanted to and the league would be SOL, Engelbert should crack down on the poor officiating and physical play that’s going to get players hurt. 

 

Anyone with eyes and critical thinking skills can tell the refs are some of the worst in pro sports, based on how long they take to review consequential possessions on a challenge or foul, or when they don’t have the nerve to throw someone out for excessive force. Engelbert thinks she’s gonna grow the league mimicking the ‘80s NBA model to the bone, but it’s a lousy idea aside from putting the stars on TV more. She already did the black-and-white comparisons with Clark, the white woman and Angel Reese, the black woman, but letting prison ball continue in the WNBA cheapens the game; don’t be surprised when a player tries to enact justice themselves. 

 

Never forget that Alyssa Thomas was not suspended for violently dropping Reese or that Diana Taurasi wasn’t either for taking out Cheyenne Parker-Tyus late in a game, both happening in 2024. DiJonai Carrington pulled rookie Sarah Ashlee Barker by her hair down this year, and she wasn’t suspended either. It means nothing when the league says, “All games are reviewed,” when they fail as oversight.

 

UCONN women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma lambasted the WNBA on Friday. Unfortunately for the league, they can’t sanction him for saying, “On a daily basis, I think the WNBA game is not conducive to like great basketball. You can spin it any way you want. There’s more viewers, there’s more that. That’s great, that doesn’t mean it’s a better game just because more people are watching…”

 

Fever switchblade Lexie Hull agreed with everything Collier said publicly. Clark missed an opportunity to use her status to pressure the league and gave a no comment, which ESPN’s Alexa Philippou first reported. 

 

Liberty guard Natasha Cloud tweeted that the players are behind Collier. 

 

Collier’s comments instantly became the biggest story in professional basketball. We are all about to find out if Engelbert is ready to deal with the heat that comes with it. 

 

 



The Miami Dolphins must quickly fill the void after losing Tyreek Hill to a serious knee injury.

Pressure Point: Dolphins must adjust quickly to reality without Tyreek Hill

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Granted, any win in the NFL is a hard day’s work.

The Miami Dolphins can feel accomplished that they are finally proud owners of one in 2025. It came with a steep price, though, losing their most impactful player in a 27-21 conquest of the winless New York Jets on Monday night.

The term for that is pyrrhic victory.

This one will be remembered only for the loss of five-time All Pro receiver Tyreek Hill to a devastating knee injury, certainly for the season, quite possibly forever.

Harsh reality sets in rapidly in a league whose initials could stand for Not For Long.

The 1-3 Dolphins can point to improvement over the past six quarters of play, including the second half at Buffalo. Whether that is a genuine turn for the better is inconclusive at best.

As for Monday, the difference was a recovered fumble at the goal line against a team whose performance was so inept its coach could be heard afterward by media members bellowing behind closed doors.

Rarely does an NFL team play as stupidly for 60 minutes as the Jets did Monday. They had 13 assessed penalties, three turnovers and committed a slew of mental errors.

Jets’ epic ineptitude aided Dolphins

Jets fans were calling for the head of Isaiah Williams, who fumbled away the second-half kickoff and called for a fair catch at his own 2 yard line in the final minute.

Jets running back Breece Hall summed up the evening well with “Teams shoot themselves in the foot, then we come back and shoot ourselves in the head.”

Quite frankly, the Dolphins also were beneficiaries of several questionable rulings by the officials.

What, then, was revealed about the Dolphins in holding off one of the league’s most dysfunctional teams?

Again, inconclusive.

One thing to say with conviction, I actually liked the Dolphins’ “Dark Water” rivalry uniforms. They looked badass, a quality this team has lacked.

The defense did answer coordinator Anthony Weaver’s demand for a more “violent” approach. They created turnovers for the first time this season. Cornerback Jack Jones punched the ball free just before Braelon Allen crossed the goal line on the Jets’ opening drive and Minkah Fitzpatrick recovered.

But prior to the fumble, Fitzpatrick accurately noted, “They were running the ball with ease.” The safety acknowledged, “When a team is running the ball like that, especially on the first drive of the game, it can be super deflating.”

Dolphins defense still getting run over

Although they got better after that, Miami’s defense still allowed 404 yards total offense, including 197 on the ground (7.1 yards per attempt).

There was a lot of violent head turning as Jets backs ran past.

The pass rush had trouble reaching and containing Justin Fields, who scampered away for a 43-yard touchdown.

The Miami defense needs more examples like linebacker Jordyn Brooks (18 tackles). Cornerback, a position of concern, has actually been passable with Jones and Rasul Douglas.

But whether the Dolphins can beat anyone better than the Jets with this defense is: inconclusive.

That their grip on this one remained uncomfortable until the end is concerning. But there are positives to cite.

In the immediate aftermath of Hill’s departure on a cart, joking and waving, the Dolphins responded with back to back touchdown drives. They uncovered an intriguing new offensive force in the Dolphins debut of massive tight end Darren Waller, a target so expansive that Tua Tagovailoa will be hard pressed to overthrow him.

“I mean I can’t remember the last time I’ve thrown the ball to dang near the goal post and somebody catches it like that,” Tua said of Waller’s jaw-dropping grab at the back of the end zone for the first of two touchdown catches. “So, that’s the kind of guy that we have in Darren Waller.”

Tight end Waller has immediate impact for Dolphins

So, Waller becomes exhibit No. 1 of how the Dolphins will cope with the loss of Hill, who has missed only one game in his four seasons with Miami. He is their leading receiver this season and even claimed that distinction for this game (six catches for 67 yards) despite his early departure.

Througouth his tenure, the Dolphins have gone best when Hill is going well.

Even with the void Hill’s injury leaves, there is reason to be encouraged by the potential of McDaniel’s offense. It looked more like the 2023 version than we’ve seen since then with the combination of pre-snap motion, deception and speed bringing positive results. It was evident they had 11 days to prepare.

For the first time this season Tagovailoa didn’t have a turnover or a sack. I liked getting him out of the pocket, where he’s been vulnerable if his first read isn’t open, and having him throw on the run.

Best of all was the balance with 31 rushes (123 yards) and 25 passes. The makeshift offensive line did a good job of opening lanes for De’von Achane, including Cole Strange getting his first start at right guard.

But is that a reflection of general improvement or status quo by facing the Jets, who have lost 10 in a row at Hard Rock Stadium? Again, inconclusive.

Jaylen Waddle must lead Dolphins receivers

What matters now is how they go forward without Hill. Is Jaylen Waddle ready to step into the featured receiver role? He has moments of brilliance, but now he must emerge as the go-to guy.
Malik Washington will have the chance to play a bigger part and there should be opportunity to finally  take the wraps off talented Tahj Washington.

There is speculation about using running backs Achane and Ollie Gordon II together, with Achane lining up as a receiver. But Achane is too valuable as the featured runner for that to me more than a variation.

How will this Dolphins team respond to the post-Tyreek reality? The weeks ahead will reveal a lot more than Monday’s win over the self-destructible Jets.

A good starting point would be to throw to Darren Waller as often as possible.

Craig Davis has covered South Florida sports and teams, including the Dolphins, for more than four decades. Follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @CraigDavisRuns.

The Edge of Collapse: Dolphins Seek First Win Against Rival Jets

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The Miami Dolphins are 0-3 and come home to face their division rival New York Jets (0-3). A rivalry long rooted in history, at one of its darkest points. Both teams come into the game at a crossroads, the Jets in a transition year, with a new coach and quarterback, while the Dolphins continuity is seeing its chapter come to a close. For this Dolphins chapter, a win is necessary, go to 0-4 while being 0-3 in the division — change is imminent — win and maybe they can right this ship.

So here are the keys to a Miami Dolphins victory.

  1.  Establish the run. The Miami Dolphins rushing attack has actually been among the NFL’s best and with a young, struggling offensive line, the run can help build that unit, and also alleviate some pressure on passing downs. Miami is averaging 5.2 yards per carry which is good for third in the NFL. The Jets are allowing 4.1 yards per attempt and 133 yards a game. Ollie Gordon and Devon Achane must have a big role in tonight’s matchup, allowing Miami to keep their struggling defense on the sideline.
  2. Contain Justin Fields. The Jets offense has been heavily reliant on the run, whether it’s been Tyrod Taylor, Justin Field, Breece Hall, or Braelon Allen. The Jets are only averaging 144.7 passing yards while running for 127 per game. Their best offensive performance came in week one against the Steelers when the Jets ran for 182 yards, with 48 of those coming from Fields (12 carries). The Dolphins defense must hold their gaps, and I would expect them to try more of Willie Gay this week to combat Field’s elusiveness.
  3. Win the turnover battle. I have said this every week, but not it has become a glaring issue and cause of loss. The Miami Dolphins have yet to force a turnover and currently hold a second worst -5 turnover differential. This formula just doesn’t in football games. The Jets are also not very good in this category, so as coach Weaver said “”At some point it comes down to changing the math through violence… I need you to do more than your job, I need you to whip that guy’s a– in front of you.” The Dolphins defense needs to come out fast and ferocious this week and get Hard Rock Stadium involved.

For the Dolphins this really is their season, 0-4 everything spirals, sell the assets and get ready for the next build. Win. And maybe there is a reason to believe.

Austin Dobbins – Sports Illustrated

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