NBA Free Agency Live: Updates on Trades, Rumors, and News for Lakers, LeBron, Warriors, and Celtics

NBA free agency officially commenced on Monday evening when the negotiating window for eligible players and teams opened at 6 p.m. ET. The initial night was relatively uneventful, but things took a surprising turn the following morning.

Myles Turner, the most sought-after free agent, has reportedly signed a four-year deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. This move stands out not only for Turner’s signing but also because the Bucks decided to waive Damian Lillard to create space for him. Prior to this unexpected Turner announcement, many of the league’s top stars had confirmed their intentions to remain with their current teams.

Notable players such as LeBron James, James Harden, Kyrie Irving, Julius Randle, and Fred VanVleet all opted to stay put ahead of June 30. The 2025 free agent market may not be overflowing with star talent, but notable transactions were still evident as teams began their negotiations. A key move on Monday night came in the form of a trade.

The Denver Nuggets sent Michael Porter Jr. along with a 2032 first-round draft pick to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Cam Johnson. This trade provides Denver with a player who fits well within their system while also allowing for significant cap relief. Meanwhile, the Nets are focused on the long-term benefit of securing a valuable future draft asset.

As of Tuesday night, several prominent free agents remain available, including Al Horford, Deandre Ayton, Josh Giddey, and Jonathan Kuminga. The Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers are among the teams facing significant roster dilemmas. The pace of the offseason is expected to accelerate rapidly, and updates on rumors and key moves will continue to emerge as free agency unfolds.

France Enacts Stricter Anti-Smoking Laws, Banning Smoking in Most Public Spaces with Heavy Fines

France is witnessing a significant cultural shift as the country has enacted a ban on smoking in most public spaces. The new law is designed to protect children from the harmful effects of tobacco, with public consensus supporting this initiative.

Under the new regulations, smoking is prohibited in places such as beaches, parks, bus shelters, and areas near libraries, schools, and swimming pools. Those who violate the ban could face fines ranging from 135 euros (about $160) to a maximum of 700 euros (approximately $826), although a grace period has been introduced as the law comes into effect.

For years, smoking was a prevalent aspect of French culture, but the health statistics paint a grim picture. Health Minister Catherine Vautrin noted that over 200 people die daily due to tobacco-related illnesses, leading to a staggering annual toll of 75,000 lives.

The government’s motivation for the ban is to promote “denormalization,” challenging the perception that smoking is a normal part of life. The French League Against Cancer emphasized the importance of restricting smoking in areas that could negatively impact public health, especially for young people.

Previously introduced bans against smoking in restaurants, bars, and public buildings since 2007-2008, along with increasing taxes that have raised the cost of a pack of cigarettes to over 12 euros ($14), have not completely curtailed smoking habits. Public health statistics reveal that about 30% of French adults continue to smoke, with 15% of 17-year-olds also partaking in the habit.

Despite strict regulations, smokers still find solace in café terraces, which serve as a “space of freedom” according to Catherine Querard, president of France’s national restaurant lobby. These terraces foster social interactions and are essential to France’s cultural identity and economy.

Some smokers understand the rationale behind the ban, while others feel their personal freedoms are being eroded. Ultimately, they view terrace smoking as a last bastion of personal liberty in the evolving landscape of France’s smoking laws.

Coco Gauff, fresh from French Open win, eliminated in Wimbledon first round

Coco Gauff, fresh off her recent French Open victory, faced a surprising defeat in the first round of Wimbledon, marking her as only the third woman in the Open era to lose in the opening round immediately following a Grand Slam title. Gauff, the No.

2 seed, succumbed to unseeded Dayana Yastremska from Ukraine with a score of 7-6 (3), 6-1. Despite her high ranking, Gauff struggled throughout the match, accumulating a disappointing six winners and an alarming 29 unforced errors, including nine double-faults.

Gauff recognized that her performance was lacking, saying, “Dayana started off playing strong. I couldn’t find my footing out there today.”

The loss was particularly significant as Gauff joined another American player, No. 3 seed Jessica Pegula, in an early exit from the tournament.

In total, 23 seeded players—13 men and 10 women—had been eliminated before the conclusion of the first round, tying the record for the most early exits in a Grand Slam tournament since 2001. Just a few weeks prior, Gauff celebrated her second Grand Slam title, triumphing over World No.

1 Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling final at Roland-Garros. Gauff acknowledged the emotional toll of the quick transition back to competition, stating, “I feel like mentally I was a little bit overwhelmed with everything that came afterwards.”

Despite the perception of her previous success at Wimbledon, this tournament has historically been her least successful major. Gauff has yet to advance past the fourth round at Wimbledon, and this week’s exit marked her second first-round departure in three years.

The transition from clay to grass can be challenging for many players, and only Serena Williams has successfully navigated this route in recent history. As for Yastremska, she took advantage of Gauff’s struggles, showcasing impressive form with 16 winners.

Having recently reached a final on grass, she entered the match with newfound confidence. “I love playing on grass.

I feel that this year we are kind of friends,” she said, hopeful for her continued success in the tournament.

Discover U.S. Cities with High Incomes and Excellent Work-Life Balance for the Best Job Markets.

Finding the right job can depend greatly on location, as recent analysis by SmartAsset highlighted the best job markets across the U.S. This study evaluated 348 cities based on six key indicators: unemployment rate, income growth, employer-sponsored health insurance coverage, typical commute times, the percentage of remote workers, and median housing costs relative to income. According to SmartAsset, Bend, Oregon, ranks as the top city for job markets in the United States. Its impressive low unemployment rate of 3.1% and significant income growth—44% between 2020 and 2023—set it apart.

This growth rate is only surpassed by Richmond, Virginia, Nampa, Idaho, and Dayton, Ohio. Additionally, Bend’s appeal includes outdoor recreational opportunities and an average commute of just 16 minutes, with more than a quarter of its population working remotely. Following Bend, the second and third best job markets are Richmond, Virginia, and Seattle, Washington, respectively. For individuals prioritizing health care coverage, Santa Clara, California, offers the highest percentage, with over 88% of residents having employer-sponsored private health insurance.

Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Bellevue, Washington, are also notable, each with approximately 87% coverage. Commute times are another crucial factor for work-life balance. In this regard, Wichita Falls, Texas, leads with a median commute of roughly 14 minutes, making it one of the shortest in the nation. Abilene, Texas, and Topeka, Kansas, follow closely with average commute times of 14 and 15 minutes, respectively.

Lastly, for those looking for remote work opportunities, Frisco, Texas, has the highest percentage of remote workers at over 32%. Berkeley, California, and Charlotte, North Carolina, are not far behind, with 29% and 28% of their workforce working from home.

University of Pennsylvania to Prohibit Transgender Athletes Following Federal Government Agreement – CBS Philadelphia

The University of Pennsylvania has reached an agreement to ban transgender athletes, effectively concluding a civil rights case initiated by swimmer Lia Thomas. This decision follows an investigation by the Department of Education, which found violations of Title IX, the federal law ensuring equal opportunities for women in athletics. Under the agreement, the University will take several actions, including restoring records and titles previously held by female athletes that were allegedly affected by male athletes competing in women’s events.

Penn will also publicly affirm its commitment to compliance with Title IX, stating it will not permit males to participate in female sports programs. Additionally, the University is set to apologize to those female swimmers impacted by the situation. In a public statement, Penn reiterated its compliance with Title IX as interpreted by the Department of Education and emphasized that its athletics facilities will be allocated based on biological sex.

This statement appears to serve as the required public acknowledgment for the resolution agreement. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon remarked that the agreement signifies a victory for women’s sports and commended the University for addressing past grievances against female athletes. Prior to this resolution, the Trump administration had indicated that Penn was violating Title IX by permitting Thomas to compete on the women’s swim team.

Lia Thomas, a notable figure in Division I women’s swimming during the 2022 NCAA season, had achieved significant successes after transitioning in 2019 from the men’s team. The University acknowledged that while it complied with NCAA regulations at the time, it recognized the disadvantages some student-athletes faced under those policies. In response to this agreement, Philadelphia councilmembers and state representatives expressed disappointment, condemning the University for capitulating to political pressure and asserting that this decision undermines the rights of transgender athletes.

They argue that the actions taken are politically motivated rather than rooted in promoting equity in sports.

Jury in Sean “Diddy” Combs case begins Day 3 of deliberations after partial verdict reached.

Jurors in the trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs are entering the third day of deliberations as they consider the racketeering conspiracy charge against the music mogul. On Tuesday, the jury reached a partial verdict on four out of the five charges, which include two counts of sex trafficking and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.

These latter charges involve accusations of arranging the transportation of women and sex workers across state lines. The jury has not disclosed whether they found Combs guilty or not guilty on these four counts.

Before any verdict can be finalized, they must reach a consensus on the first count related to racketeering conspiracy. Combs, aged 55, has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Late Tuesday, the jury communicated with Judge Arun Subramanian, indicating they had reached a verdict on four counts but were deadlocked on the racketeering conspiracy charge. The foreman noted that there were jurors with firmly held views on both sides of the issue.

The judge instructed them to continue deliberating, and they were subsequently dismissed for the day. The racketeering conspiracy charge includes various acts such as kidnapping, arson, bribery, witness tampering, forced labor, and others.

Legal expert Richard Schoenstein remarked that the RICO charge is the most serious and complex, which may explain the difficulty the jury is having in reaching a unanimous decision. As the jury deliberations progressed, they sought to review testimony from Combs’ former girlfriend Cassie Ventura and a male escort involved in alleged “freak-offs.”

After less than 13 hours of deliberation over the course of two days, the jury is still working towards a final verdict. If convicted, the charges could result in significant prison time, with sex trafficking carrying a minimum of 15 years up to life imprisonment.

Father Rescues Daughter Who Fell Overboard from Disney Cruise Ship Near Fort Lauderdale – CBS Miami

A father made a heroic leap into the ocean to save his young daughter after she fell overboard from a Disney Cruise Line ship returning to South Florida. The dramatic incident occurred on Sunday aboard the Disney Dream while sailing between the Bahamas and Fort Lauderdale. According to passengers and videos shared on social media, the father acted immediately, jumping into the water after his daughter.

An emergency alert was sounded throughout the ship as crew members quickly launched a rescue boat and deployed life preservers. Passenger Laura Amador described the scene, noting how fast the ship moved, causing the father and daughter to quickly become small dots in the vast ocean. The captain slowed the ship and initiated a turn, enabling a rescue team to reach them.

The Disney Dream arrived at Port Everglades early Monday morning after completing a four-night cruise. The identities of the father and daughter remain undisclosed. A TikTok user captured footage of the father treading water with his daughter in his arms before handing her over to the rescue crew.

Passengers reacted with relief and admiration, cheering when the rescue was successfully completed. Many expressed their emotional responses, with one passenger, Tracy Robinson-Hughes, describing the father as a hero for his courageous act. The incident caused widespread anguish among witnesses, many of whom were grateful for the quick response of the crew.

Cruise expert Amanda Berry commended the successful rescue but noted that parents should be more vigilant in monitoring their children on cruises. She highlighted the rarity of survival in such situations, emphasizing the effectiveness of the Disney staff in this particular instance. A Disney Cruise Line spokesperson praised crew members for their prompt actions, reaffirming the company’s commitment to guest safety.

92-Year-Old Man Found Guilty of Woman’s 1967 Murder, Closing One of U.K.’s Oldest Cold Cases

A 92-year-old man was convicted on Monday of the rape and murder of a woman in southwestern England. This case marks the resolution of what is considered the U.K.’s longest-running cold case. A jury at Bristol Crown Court found Ryland Headley guilty of attacking 75-year-old Louisa Dunne in June 1967, after nearly six decades of investigation.

Prosecutor Charlotte Ream noted the horror of Dunne’s death, stating that she was attacked in her own home, a place where she should have felt safest. For 58 years, the crime went unsolved, allowing Headley to evade justice until now. Dunne’s body was discovered by a neighbor on June 28, 1967, following reports of a woman’s chilling scream that night.

An autopsy revealed that she died due to strangulation and asphyxiation, and it was determined that she had also been raped. The Crown Prosecution Service identified this case as one of the oldest cold cases ever resolved in the U.K. Investigators retained evidence from the crime scene, including Dunne’s clothing and a palm print believed to belong to Headley. Over the decades, initial police efforts failed to uncover a suspect, despite collecting thousands of fingerprint samples from local men and boys.

In 2023, the case was revisited, and forensic testing on Dunne’s skirt revealed DNA linking Headley to the crime scene. His DNA had previously been cataloged in the national database due to an unrelated incident. Following his arrest in November, details about Headley’s criminal past surfaced, including a conviction for raping two elderly women in the late 1970s.

Though most witnesses have passed away, their accounts from the original investigation were used effectively during Headley’s trial. Dunne’s granddaughter expressed her astonishment at the arrest, having previously accepted that some murders remain unsolved. Detective Inspector Dave Marchant emphasized the ongoing commitment to investigating other unsolved cases in the region.

Headley’s sentencing is scheduled for Tuesday.

20 Bodies, Some Decapitated, Discovered Amid Sinaloa Cartel Faction Violence in Mexico

Authorities in Mexico have discovered twenty bodies, several of which were decapitated, on a highway bridge in a region plagued by violence between factions of the Sinaloa cartel. The Sinaloa state prosecutor’s office reported that four headless corpses were located by the roadside, while sixteen others were found inside an abandoned vehicle. Additionally, five severed heads were discovered in a bag at the scene. All victims exhibited signs of gunshot wounds.

Local reports indicated that the four decapitated bodies may have been displayed hanging from the bridge, a notorious tactic employed by criminal gangs. However, this detail has not been officially confirmed. At the site, authorities also noted that the bodies were accompanied by a note that appears to have come from one of the cartel factions, although the specifics of the note have not been revealed. Feliciano Castro, spokesperson for the Sinaloa government, expressed outrage over the brutal killings and emphasized the need for a reassessment of the government’s approach to combating organized crime, given the escalating violence.

Castro stated that military and police forces are collaborating to restore peace in Sinaloa. Violence in the northwestern state has surged since the arrest of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, one of the cartel’s co-founders, nearly a year ago in the United States. This conflict has resulted in over 1,200 deaths, mostly between factions aligned with Zambada and those loyal to the infamous Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman and his sons, collectively known as the “Chapitos.” The Chapitos have been linked to gruesome methods of torture, including electrocution and the feeding of rivals to tigers, as detailed in recent U.S. Justice Department indictments.

In recent months, the appearance of bodies has become commonplace across Sinaloa, often presented in macabre ways. The ongoing criminal violence, predominantly tied to drug trafficking, has led to approximately 480,000 deaths in Mexico since 2006, with over 120,000 individuals reported missing.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Skeptical About Quick Resumption of U.S. Talks, Yet Diplomacy Remains Open

Iran’s foreign minister expressed skepticism regarding the prompt resumption of diplomatic talks with the United States, despite President Trump indicating that negotiations could restart soon. The White House has clarified that no discussions are currently scheduled.

Following U.S. airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, a ceasefire was declared to conclude what President Trump referred to as a 12-day conflict with Israel. In a recent interview with an American news outlet, Foreign Minister Araghchi conveyed that returning to diplomacy would require assurances that the U.S. would not engage in military actions during negotiations.

He emphasized the need for more time to address these concerns. Nevertheless, Araghchi conveyed that “the doors of diplomacy will never slam shut,” indicating a potential openness to future discussions.

He noted the recent U.S. airstrikes had damaged significant nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordo and Natanz. Araghchi countered Trump’s claims that these sites had been “obliterated,” asserting that technology and knowledge for uranium enrichment cannot be eradicated through bombing.

He stated that Iran could swiftly recover from the damages if it chose to prioritize its nuclear program. In response to inquiries about Iran’s intentions regarding uranium enrichment, Araghchi characterized the country’s nuclear aspirations as a source of national pride, particularly in light of the recent conflict with Israel.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei publicly claimed victory over Israel, acknowledging Iran’s resilience during the 12-day war. In response, President Trump dismissed Khamenei’s assertions and reiterated a hard stance against Iranian nuclear activities, suggesting potential military action if Iran escalates uranium enrichment levels.

As tensions persist, both Mr. Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are scheduled to convene at the White House next week, setting the stage for further discussions about Iran’s nuclear program and regional stability.