Denver Nuggets are reshaping their coaching staff with the addition of Rodney Billups and J.J. Barea, confirming the hiring on Tuesday. Billups, a Denver native, previously served as the head coach at the University of Denver and as an assistant at the University of Colorado. He spent last season scouting for the Brooklyn Nets. Barea, a former NBA champion with the Dallas Mavericks, recently coached in Puerto Rico. These appointments come as David Adelman continues to build his staff after leading the Nuggets to the playoffs.

Adelman, who took over as interim head coach last season, has chosen not to retain several former assistants, focusing instead on a fresh approach to the coaching staff. This includes potential discussions with Mavericks assistant Jared Dudley, who played a crucial role in the team's progress to the Finals in 2024. As Adelman looks to solidify his coaching vision, these changes are set to impact the Nuggets' strategy moving forward.

Three notable alumni from the Governors Challenge basketball tournament have been selected in the 2025 NBA Draft, showcasing the growing influence of this prestigious event. Jeremiah Fears, Thomas Sorber, and Koby Brea have made the leap from high school to the pros, joining a roster of former participants now playing in the NBA.

Jeremiah Fears, the standout from AZ Compass Prep, was the highest pick at No. 7 by the New Orleans Pelicans after an impressive freshman year at Oklahoma. Thomas Sorber followed closely, being drafted No. 15 by the Oklahoma City Thunder after a historic five-overtime game at the Governors Challenge in 2022. Koby Brea rounded out the trio, selected in the second round by the Golden State Warriors and traded to the Phoenix Suns.

Alex Toohey, the Australian rookie, is ready to make his mark with the Golden State Warriors after being selected as the 52nd pick in the recent NBA draft. Having averaged 10.5 points and 3.9 rebounds with the Sydney Kings, Toohey showcased his versatile offensive skills and defensive instincts during his pre-draft workouts, despite a less-than-stellar meeting with the Warriors.

Toohey's journey has been exciting, especially with the support of former Warriors center Andrew Bogut. He believes his 6-foot-8 frame and improved three-point shooting can fit into the Warriors' dynamic roster. As he prepares for the California Classic, Toohey looks to leverage his versatility to contribute to the team's success.

The New York Knicks are navigating a pivotal moment as they seek a new head coach following the surprising dismissal of Tom Thibodeau. Despite leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks have shifted their focus, reaching out to various candidates across the league. They've attempted to secure meetings with established coaches like Ime Udoka and Jason Kidd, but faced rejections from every team approached.

Among the candidates, Mike Brown has emerged as a leading option, having previously coached the Sacramento Kings. Following a solid season that showcased his ability to guide the Kings back to the playoffs, Brown is now in line for a second meeting with the Knicks. This development highlights the Knicks' intention to capitalize on Brown's experience, especially after his previous accolades, including being named Coach of the Year.

Former Indian Hills basketball standout Curtis Jones has signed with the Denver Nuggets as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NBA Draft. Jones gained attention during his impressive performance in the 2020-21 season, showcasing his skills as a promising talent.

The Denver Nuggets, coming off a stellar season with a 53-20 record, not only made it to the Western Conference Semifinals but also clinched the 2023 NBA Championship. This success sets a high bar for Jones as he steps into a team filled with accomplished players and a strong winning culture.