The Philadelphia 76ers have announced the addition of Jabari Walker, a young small forward, who has signed a two-way contract with the team. Walker joins the ranks of three two-way players on the roster, allowing the Sixers to maximize their developmental potential. Previously drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers, Walker's stats include a peak performance in the recent season with averages of 8.9 points and 7.1 rebounds.

While he is known for his high energy and defensive skills, Walker has also made strides in his shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, achieving a career-high 38.9% last season. However, his athleticism remains a question mark for the small forward position. The 22-year-old, son of former NBA player Samaki Walker, will not participate in the upcoming summer leagues.

The Philadelphia 76ers have made another strategic move by signing forward Jabari Walker to a two-way deal, adding depth to their frontcourt. After averaging 5.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in 60 games with the Portland Trail Blazers, Walker brings versatility at 6-foot-9 to the team. The Sixers aim to develop his skills further with the Delaware Blue Coats, their G League affiliate, especially following Guerschon Yabusele's departure to the New York Knicks. Walker's addition addresses immediate needs on the frontline.

The Los Angeles Lakers have strengthened their roster for the 2024 season by signing center DeAndre Ayton to a two-year, $16.6 million contract. This move aims to address their previous lack of a dominant physical presence near the rim, which was seen as a critical weakness last season. The Lakers previously made headlines with the bold trade that brought superstar Luka Doncic to LA in exchange for Anthony Davis, but they still struggled to advance past the Timberwolves in the playoffs, highlighting the need for additional reinforcements.

Ayton, the first overall pick in the 2018 draft, is expected to complement Doncic’s playstyle effectively. Interestingly, both players were top picks in the same draft, with Ayton being selected just ahead of Doncic. The excitement surrounding Ayton's addition is palpable, with Doncic reportedly looking forward to teaming up with him. This collaborative potential could position the Lakers as serious contenders for the NBA Finals, pending successful contract negotiations with Doncic and LeBron James's commitment to the franchise.

Ben McLemore, once a promising NBA talent, faces severe implications after being convicted of rape in Oregon. The former guard, who played for teams including the Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Sacramento Kings, was found guilty of first-degree rape and other related charges stemming from an incident in 2021. The jury deliberated for 10 hours after an 11-day trial. He is set to be sentenced on July 10, 2025. Despite claiming the encounter was consensual, the evidence presented during the trial painted a grim picture of the events that unfolded at a party where the victim was allegedly incapacitated. The verdict underscores a commitment to accountability, regardless of an individual's celebrity status.

Former Houston Rockets guard Ben McLemore has been found guilty of multiple sexual assault charges, including first-degree rape and unlawful sexual penetration, stemming from an incident in 2021 while he was playing for the Portland Trail Blazers.

After deliberating for around 10 hours following an 11-day trial, the Clackamas County jury issued its verdict, which could lead to significant legal consequences for the 32-year-old athlete. McLemore had pleaded not guilty to the charges, which were based on testimony from the victim who claimed she was assaulted after a party while unconscious. His attorneys argued that consent was given, despite both parties being intoxicated.

McLemore, who was drafted seventh overall in 2013, has had a career that included stints with five different NBA teams and has recently played overseas. The case highlights the ongoing issues of accountability and consent within professional sports.