In basketball news, Suns make Ayton a multi-year offer. Griner case updates: she had a doctor's note, Biden signs order. Plus, Kevin Durant trade rumors, high school basketball star killed in a crash, and more.
Ayton signs multi-year offer sheet with Suns
Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton has reached a deal with the franchise, signing a four-year, offer sheet worth $133 million. Phoenix now has two days to match the offer or Ayton can move on as a free agent, ABC15 reports.
Ayton apparently wants to stay, writing on Twitter: "PHOENIX! I grew up here, got drafted here, had my son here. We have the best fans in the world. I’m ready to get back to work with my brothers."
During the 2021-22 season, Ayton ranked in the NBA's top ten in both field goal percentage and rebounds per game for the second consecutive season, averaging 17.2 points and a career-high and franchise-record 63.4% shooting with 10.2 rebounds.
Griner case: Had doctors note for cannabis, Biden signs order to sanction those who wrongfully detain American citizens
At the hearing for Brittney
Griner last Friday, a lawyer for the WNBA star gave the court a letter from a
US doctor who had approved and recommended the use of medical cannabis to treat
pain, according to reports.
The week prior, Griner had pleaded guilty to possession charges, telling the judge she had inadvertently left a vape canister containing cannabis oil in her luggage. Griner is facing up to 10 years in prison if convicted on charges of transporting drugs.
On Tuesday, US President Joe Biden signed an executive order that was aimed at imposing sanctions on government officials, criminals, or terrorists who wrongfully detain American citizens abroad. The order also is aimed at increasing the flow of information for the families of Americans held captive, ESPN reported.
Kevin Durant trade rumors
The biggest question in the NBA continues: Where will Kevin Durant play next season? Just hours before the free agency opened, Durant requested a trade from the Brooklyn Nets, NBC Sports reports. Rumors circulated that Durant might return to the Warriors.
According to sources, not much progress has been made between the Nets and Warriors and possible trade talks. Other reports say Durant favors going to the Phoenix Suns or Miami Heat. The mystery remains unsolved for now.
Loudoun County High basketball star killed in car crash
George Mwesigwa, an 18-year-old basketball star who recently graduated from Loudoun County High School, was killed in a car crash overnight involving a tractor-trailer, authorities said, the Daily Voice reported.
Mwesigwa was a 6-feet-5-inch tall power forward/center for the Captains, who was named to the 2nd Team All-State. Mwesigwa stood out on the basketball court because of his defense and powerful dunking ability.