Basketball

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Giannis Ioannidis, one of Greece's most successful basketball coaches who later entered politics and served as a minister for sports, has died at the age of 78.

Whether it was on the court, in the locker room, or in front of cameras and microphones, Fred VanVleet was the voice of the Toronto Raptors for the past two NBA seasons.

WASHINGTON (AP) — When the Washington Wizards traded Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis this offseason, their direction seemed clear. Then came a move that, under the circumstances, was a bit more curious.

BURNABY, B.C. — The Toronto Raptors message of unity and "team basketball" has at least one follower looking to make sure it's followed through on.

With new policies and penalties, the NBA has made it clear that healthy players should be on the court. No argument from the players, who insist they aren't interested in sitting.

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Damian Lillard understands he has a reputation for being an elite offensive player but not a particularly strong defender. Now that he’s on a new team , the seven-time all-NBA selection looks forward to changing that perception.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — LaMelo Ball went through his first NBA practice in more than seven months on Tuesday, returning to the floor with a new look. Ball wore ankle braces on both legs.

BOCA RATON, Fla. (AP) — Perhaps the biggest void for the Miami Heat to fill during their training camp that started Tuesday is replacing a player who averaged 3.9 points and 1.6 rebounds last season and went scoreless in his two playoff appearances.

LONDON (AP) — The NBA returns to Abu Dhabi this week as Arabian Gulf countries increasingly use their wealth to establish a foothold with the league.

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — The San Antonio Spurs are prepared for what should be one of the most demanding tasks this NBA season: Answering questions about rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama.