## Illini Defensive Back Earns Prestigious Preseason Recognition 

**Xavier Scott Named to Jim Thorpe Award Watch List**

Illinois football standout Xavier Scott has been named to the preseason watch list for the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award, recognizing the nation's top defensive back.  

Scott, a 5-foot-11, 190-pound cornerback, earned All-Big Ten first-team honors last season after starting all 13 games. He was also named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award in 2024, placing him among the top 15 defensive backs in college football.  Scott's impressive performance also garnered him Phil Steele All-America honorable mention recognition.

The watch list features 35 talented defensive backs from across the country, including six representatives from the Big Ten Conference.  


**Four Illini Among Prestigious Preseason Watch Lists**

Scott is one of four Illinois players to land a spot on a major preseason watch list for the 2025 season. Luke Altmyer (Maxwell Award), Gabe Jacas (Bronko Nagurski Trophy), and J.C. Davis (Outland Trophy) also earned recognition for their potential contributions to the upcoming season.  

**2025 Jim Thorpe Award Preseason Watch List:**

* S Xavion Alford, Arizona State
* S Ty Benefield, Boise State
* S KJ Bolden, Georgia
* S Bud Clark, TCU
* S Jeremiah Cooper, Iowa State
* S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
* CB Daylen Everette, Georgia
* CB David Fisher, North Texas
* CB Chance Gamble, Georgia Southern
* S Brylan Green, Liberty
* CB Tyler Hallum, Kennesaw State
* CB Al’zillion Hamilton, Fresno State
* CB Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State
* S Casey Larkin, Army
* CB A’Marion McCoy, Boise State
* CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
* CB Leonard Moore, Notre Dame
* S Terry Moore, Duke
* CB Malik Muhammad, Texas
* S Isaiah Nwokobia, SMU
* CB Tank Pearson, Ohio
* S Koi Perich, Minnesota
* CB D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana
* CB Chandler Rivers, Duke
* CB De’Shawn Rucker, South Florida
* CB Xavier Scott, Illinois
* S Tyree Skipper, Louisiana
* CB Avery Smith, Toledo
* S Michael Taaffe, Texas
* CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
* S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
* S Jacob Thomas, James Madison
* S DJ Walker, Ohio
* CB JeRico Washington Jr., Kennesaw State
* CB Jontez Williams, Iowa State





## Illini Defensive Back Earns Prestigious Preseason Recognition 

**Xavier Scott Named to Jim Thorpe Award Watch List**

Illinois football standout Xavier Scot

Illinois football defensive back named to 2025 Jim Thorpe Aw

Illinois football defensive back named to 2025 Jim Thorpe Award preseason watch list

## Atlas Lions Roar to Life: Morocco National Team Begins CHAN Training

**Nairobi, Kenya:** Morocco's local national football team kicked off their preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a focused training session at Kasarani International Sports Complex annex in Nairobi. 

Under the guidance of head coach Tarik Sektioui, the squad is determined to represent Morocco at its best on the continental stage.  "We're here with high motivation and strong focus," stated a team official. "The goal is clear: bring the CHAN title back home."

Morocco faces a tough challenge in their group, facing four formidable opponents throughout the group stage. Their journey begins against Angola on August 3rd, followed by a highly anticipated clash against tournament host Kenya on August 10th.  Further matches pit Morocco against Zambia on August 14th and the Democratic Republic of Congo on August 17th.

The team's early arrival in Nairobi and disciplined training schedule underscore their commitment to reclaiming the CHAN title, having previously won the coveted trophy in both 2018 and 2020.  




## Atlas Lions Roar to Life: Morocco National Team Begins CHAN Training

**Nairobi, Kenya:** Morocco's local national football team kicked off their preparation

CHAN 2024: Morocco’s local national team begins training in 

CHAN 2024: Morocco’s local national team begins training in Nairobi ahead of group stage opener

## Dusty Baker Returns to the Dugout for Nicaragua's 2026 World Baseball Classic Run

**Hall of Famer Embraces New Challenge, Citing Clemente and Garvey as Inspiration**

COOPERSTOWN, NY — After a two-year retirement from Major League Baseball, legendary manager Dusty Baker is stepping back into the dugout. He'll lead Nicaragua in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, he told USA TODAY Sports.  

"I'm excited," said Baker, who boasts a distinguished career as both a two-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner during his 19 years as a player and a seasoned manager for 26 seasons. "When they asked me, I thought about Roberto Clemente going there to help the country. I thought about Marcus Garvey. I know baseball is trying to get going in Nicaragua, and I want to help."

Baker had previously been approached to manage the U.S. team in 2023 but chose to remain with the Houston Astros after their World Series victory in 2022. Now retired from MLB managing –  serving as a special advisor for the San Francisco Giants – he believes this is the perfect opportunity.

“I considered managing in the WBC back then, but I just couldn’t leave my team," Baker explained. “I didn’t think it was right to leave my team for two weeks in spring training. I was trying to win two World Series in a row.
"So, now, the timing works great."


**A Team Built on Experience and Legacy**

Baker's appointment came after being contacted in December by Nicaragua general manager George Santiago and former manager Marvin Bernard. He sought counsel from his wife, Melissa, and son, Darren, who plays in the Washington Nationals organization, before accepting the position.

"It should be cool," said Baker, the only manager in MLB history to lead five different franchises to division titles. "I know it will be a great life experience. I hope I can add to theirs, and they can add to mine.
“I’ve never been a part of the WBC, but everyone seems to enjoy it. I will as well. But let’s make it clear. I’m here to win."

The 76-year-old Baker is slated for a formal introduction at a press conference in Nicaragua this August. He plans to assemble a staff featuring former coaches Gary Pettis, Jacque Jones and Dan Firova, alongside Bernard as bench coach and Randall Simon. Bernard, who becomes the sixth Nicaraguan-born player to reach the Major Leagues and the second position player, brings invaluable experience to the team.

**A New Chapter While Leaving MLB in the Rearview**


Despite this exciting new venture, Baker has no plans to return to managing a major league team.  With 2,183 wins, placing him seventh all-time, he is eligible for the Hall of Fame’s contemporary era ballot in December 2026, with an induction ceremony scheduled for July 2027.

“I miss the camaraderie and the game," Baker admitted, "but I don’t miss the verbal dodgeball twice a day. I don’t miss the travel and bickering between old school and new school and sabermetrics against experience.
“Besides, I don’t have to train for a long-distance race managing in the WBC. This will be a sprint. I can handle that. Now, I just have to brush up on my Spanish."  





## Dusty Baker Returns to the Dugout for Nicaragua's 2026 World Baseball Classic Run

**Hall of Famer Embraces New Challenge, Citing Clemente and Garvey as Insp

Retired Dusty Baker to manage Nicaragua in 2026 World Baseba

Retired Dusty Baker to manage Nicaragua in 2026 World Baseball Classic

## Michigan's "Unbelievable" Running Back Duo Ready to Roll

**A Dynamic Tandem Aims to Lead Wolverines Offense** 


Michigan fullback Max Bredeson has high praise for the Wolverines' new running back combination: Jordan Marshall and Justice Haynes. He calls them "unbelievable," but fans are still waiting to see their full potential on the field.

Marshall, despite injuries hindering his freshman year, stepped up admirably. He even surpassed 100 yards against Haynes' former Alabama team. Haynes, a five-star recruit, previously played as a change-of-pace back behind Jalen Milroe and established running backs Jase McClellan and Jam Miller at Alabama.  However, after transferring to Ann Arbor, he is expected to see a significantly larger role.


**Thunder and Lightning or Mirror Images?**

Michigan traditionally utilizes a "thunder and lightning" approach with its running backs, but how does this new duo compare? 

Bredeson offers insight into their contrasting personalities: "Very similar and very different at the same time," he describes. "Jordan's a little more outgoing, and Justice will kind of come in and be a little outgoing. They're like good friends. Two different energies, like different types of guys."

Surprisingly, Bredeson notes that their playing styles are remarkably alike: "If you were to line them up both, they look like the same running back," he says. Both possess explosive speed and a willingness to run between the tackles. 

This similarity could pose a challenge for opposing defenses, as the constant rotation of these bruising yet swift tailbacks will keep them fresh throughout the game. Bredeson explains: "Both can hit the home run, and both are plenty willing to get downhill. If I were to compare them, I'd say they're pretty similar. But two running backs that can wear you down over time. Once one gets worn down, here comes the next one."


**The Wait is Almost Over**

Fans got a brief glimpse of Marshall against Alabama and Haynes in the spring game. However, the full unveiling awaits on August 30th when Michigan opens its 2025 season against New Mexico.  


## Michigan's "Unbelievable" Running Back Duo Ready to Roll

**A Dynamic Tandem Aims to Lead Wolverines Offense** 


Michigan fullback Max Bredeson has high pra

Max Bredeson hails Michigan’s Jordan Marshall, Justice Hayne

Max Bredeson hails Michigan’s Jordan Marshall, Justice Haynes as dynamic RB duo for 2025

## Rookie Rampage: Gillotte Shakes Up Chiefs Training Camp

**Third-Round Draft Pick Shows Early Signs of Dominance**

The Kansas City Chiefs are banking on rookie defensive lineman Ashton Gillotte to bring a much-needed spark to their front seven this season. 

Gillotte, a third-round selection in the 2025 NFL draft, arrived with a reputation built on collegiate success. During his four years at the University of Louisville Cardinals, he amassed an impressive 26.5 sacks and 41 tackles for loss across 51 games played. Now, as he participates in his first NFL training camp, Gillotte has begun to demonstrate that same explosiveness.

Video footage captured by Arrowhead Addict writer Lyle Graversen shows Gillotte showcasing his prowess during one-on-one drills on Monday, July 28th. In a highlight moment, the rookie sent Kansas City's first-round pick, offensive lineman Josh Simmons, tumbling to the ground.  


>Simmons vs Gillotte in 1 on 1s

[Link to Tweet embedded with video]
— Lyle Graversen (@LyleGraversen) July 28, 2025

While Gillotte is not expected to compete for a starting position right away, his commanding performances during training camp will undoubtedly impress the Chiefs' coaching staff. The rookie's early dominance suggests he could be a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.  




## Rookie Rampage: Gillotte Shakes Up Chiefs Training Camp

**Third-Round Draft Pick Shows Early Signs of Dominance**

The Kansas City Chiefs are banking on roo

Promising rookie pass-rusher dominates in 1-on-1 drills at C

Promising rookie pass-rusher dominates in 1-on-1 drills at Chiefs Training Camp practice

##  Ducks' QB Makes Bold Claim About Tight End

**"He's the best tight end in the country."** That's what Oregon Ducks quarterback Donte Moore boldly declared about his teammate, Kenyon Sadiq, at Oregon's 2025 media day.  While Sadiq has flown under the national radar in his first two seasons, overshadowed by players like Terrance Ferguson (the 46th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft) and Patrick Herbert, Moore isn't alone in his belief.

###  Sadiq: A Talent Waiting to Explode

Despite limited playing time, Sadiq has consistently flashed the four-star potential that earned him a spot in the 2023 class. Last year, he showcased his abilities in the Big Ten title game, hauling in two touchdowns – adding to his career totals of 29 catches and 332 receiving yards.  

**Standing at six-foot-three and weighing 245 pounds, Sadiq possesses a unique combination of size and speed that has teammates raving.** Several other Ducks players echoed Moore's sentiment during media day, praising Sadiq's athleticism and potential for a breakout season.

### A Breakout Campaign on the Horizon?

With the reins as the primary pass-catcher at tight end, Sadiq is poised to make a significant impact in 2025. While the national spotlight may not be on him yet, his teammates believe he's ready to take center stage.  It's a bold prediction, but one that could easily become reality for this talented rising star.




##  Ducks' QB Makes Bold Claim About Tight End

**"He's the best tight end in the country."** That's what Oregon Ducks quarterback Donte Moore boldly declared a

Oregon QB Dante Moore claims Kenyon Sadiq is best TE in the 

Oregon QB Dante Moore claims Kenyon Sadiq is best TE in the nation

## Eight Spartans Shine Bright:  Michigan State Players Featured on Prestigious Shrine Bowl Watch List

 **Potential All-Stars for the 2025 Season**


The prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl has unveiled its highly anticipated Preseason 1000 Watch List, and Michigan State University is well represented with eight players earning a spot. The annual event features top collegiate athletes vying for recognition and opportunities to advance their careers after the season concludes.

This year's  East-West Shrine Bowl, scheduled for January 27 in Frisco, Texas, could see multiple Spartans take the field. 


**The Spartan Standouts:**

* NiJhay Burt (cornerback)
* Aidan Chiles (quarterback)
* Matt Gulbin (guard)
* Omari Kelly (wide receiver)
* Nikai Martinez (safety)
* Conner Moore (tackle)
* Elijah Tau-Tolliver (running back)
* Jack Velling (tight end)


 **Looking Ahead to the Gridiron:**

Michigan State football kicks off its 2025 season on August 29th against Western Michigan, with a 7 p.m. ET kickoff at Spartan Stadium, broadcasted live on FS1.  




Follow us for ongoing coverage of Michigan State news and updates: 


**X (formerly Twitter): @The SpartansWire**

 **Facebook:** [Insert Facebook Page Link]





## Eight Spartans Shine Bright:  Michigan State Players Featured on Prestigious Shrine Bowl Watch List

 **Potential All-Stars for the 2025 Season**


The prest

Nearly 10 Spartans named to East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 prese

Nearly 10 Spartans named to East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 preseason watch list

## Adams Leads Rams Receivers With Camaraderie, Skills

**Puka Nacua shows respect to new teammate, Davante Adams, setting stage for dynamic duo.**

Rams training camp saw a unique display of humility from wide receiver Puka Nacua. Eager to welcome star receiver Davante Adams, who signed with the team in March, Nacua initially requested that Adams lead receiver drills.

“He was saying it almost like he'd been wanting to say it for a long time,” said Adams, “but he didn't really know how to say that.” 

Nacua explained his reasoning: "There is a respect for him to come in saying, ‘I don’t want to push you out of the way or take your spot and be like, Oh, I should be up there No. 1,’” Nacua said. “But it's something that I have a huge amount of respect for his game.”

The request also came with a playful twist.  "When I was in the front, I’m trying to sprint as fast as I can so I can turn around and watch him,” Nacua said, laughing. “So, I was like, ‘Hey, I think it'll make my job a little bit easier if you just go first.' ... There's nothing better than seeing him with my own two eyes.”

Adams, 32, has already made an impact on his new team, impressing teammates and coaches with his skills honed during 11 NFL seasons. He’s amassed 1,000 yards receiving in a season seven times, including the last six in a row.  The Rams signed Adams to replace Cooper Kupp, who was released shortly after they agreed to terms with Adams. The two-year deal includes $25 million in guarantees.

Adams, who has played for the Green Bay Packers, Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets, said during offseason workouts that he felt rejuvenated with the Rams and their “college-type camaraderie.” He’s also enjoying working with coach Sean McVay.

“Well, the ‘masterminds’ because it’s a lot of people involved,” Adams said, “but it's just been fun.
“The best part for me is just getting to know the guys and hanging out with them every day.”

Adams’ presence has already made a difference. During a team meeting, McVay complimented Nacua on a play and then asked what he was thinking while running his route. Nacua referenced Adams and a tip he had offered.


“When you have guys that are doing that for each other, that's special stuff,” McVay said.

With quarterback Matthew Stafford sidelined due to a back issue, Adams has worked primarily with veteran backup Jimmy Garoppolo.  Garoppolo shared his impressions: “He brought over the same swagger he had in Las Vegas, man. He’s a confident dude.”

**Adams' Impact on Rams Receivers:**


Receivers coach Eric Yarber, who has coached some of the league’s best receivers during his tenure with McVay, recognizes Adams' unique skill set: "He’s a bigger receiver that has the feet of a little man. I mean, he’s cat-quick, he’s got great change of direction, great catch radius and a great feel for the game.”

Second-year receiver Jordan Whittington echoes this sentiment: “Separation is a big thing that I wanted to work on, and now I’ve got one of the ultimate separators ever. So having him in the film room sharing that type of information and then just watching him go out there and dominate, it’s truly a blessing.”

Adams acknowledges that while he offers advice when appropriate, his focus is on leading by example: “I'm not a walking wise man where I'm just trying to drop little trinkets on him all day, but it's more whenever it comes up,” Adams said. 

**Golden Opportunity for the Rams:**


The Rams are optimistic about their chances with Adams and Nacua at the helm of their receiving corps.  Adams himself believes that this team has the potential for greatness: “This is looking pretty golden over here.” 





## Adams Leads Rams Receivers With Camaraderie, Skills

**Puka Nacua shows respect to new teammate, Davante Adams, setting stage for dynamic duo.**

Rams traini

Davante Adams-Puka Nacua combo is already reaping benefits f

Davante Adams-Puka Nacua combo is already reaping benefits for the Rams

## Softball Star Makes Big Move: Monticelli Heads to LSU

**Oklahoma Transfer Brings Veteran Experience to Baton Rouge**

Peytn Monticelli, former Oklahoma Sooner softball pitcher, announced her commitment to the LSU Tigers on Monday. 

Monticelli joined the Sooners following the 2023 season, contributing to their fourth consecutive championship win in 2024.  

During her two years in Norman, she appeared in 34 games, holding a 2-0 record. In 2024, Monticelli boasted an impressive 1.09 ERA across 19.1 innings. However, she faced challenges in 2025 with a 3.94 ERA over 21.1 innings and limited playing time during the NCAA Tournament.

The transfer brings valuable experience to LSU, filling the void left by pitcher Sydney Berzon who joined Oklahoma via the transfer portal.

**Oklahoma Bolsters Roster with Top Talent**

Meanwhile, Oklahoma is strengthening its own roster for the upcoming season.  They welcome Alyssa Parker, ranked as the No. 1 pitcher in the 2025 recruiting class, and Berkley Zache, the No. 5 pitcher overall. Returning players include senior Kierston Deal, sophomore Audrey Lowry, and redshirt freshman Sophia Bordi, who will be back with the team after taking time away during the latter part of the 2025 season.


Monticelli expressed her gratitude for her time at Oklahoma in a heartfelt social media statement:

"Thank you, Sooner Nation, for supporting me these past two years. This was not an easy decision to make. I have loved everything about being a Sooner and am so grateful for every single person I have met along my journey with this program. Norman will always be a special place to me." 


She also shared her excitement for joining LSU, tweeting: "Callin’ Baton Rouge  🐅💜💛 @LSUsoftball" 


## Softball Star Makes Big Move: Monticelli Heads to LSU

**Oklahoma Transfer Brings Veteran Experience to Baton Rouge**

Peytn Monticelli, former Oklahoma Soon

Oklahoma Sooners pitcher transferring to LSU Tigers

## Tigers Hit Another Roadblock: Meadows Joins Olson On Injured List

**Center fielder sidelined with quad strain, adds to mounting injuries.**

Detroit Tigers fans are facing a disheartening reality as another key player has been added to the injured list. Following starter Reese Olson's season-ending shoulder strain announcement on Monday, July 28th, center fielder Parker Meadows now joins him, sidelined due to a right quad strain.  

Meadows, who missed the first 60 games of the season recovering from a musculocutaneous nerve injury in his upper right arm, was injured during Sunday's 10-4 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays at Comerica Park. Despite his recent return, he appeared noticeably cautious in center field and on the basepaths.

"We approached him about it," said Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris, highlighting the team's awareness of Meadows' discomfort. "Fortunately, we think we caught it early, so there won't be a tear or a high-grade strain. We're hopeful that he's going to be back soon." 

Meadows, 25, is batting .200 with two home runs, 12 walks, and 40 strikeouts in 38 games played this season.  To fill Meadows' absence, the Tigers recalled infielder Andy Ibáñez from Triple-A Toledo.


**Another Blow for Detroit:**

The recent string of injuries adds to the Tigers' already challenging season.  While there is still a possibility for Olson to return in time for the playoffs, the team faces a significant uphill battle as they navigate these setbacks. 


## Tigers Hit Another Roadblock: Meadows Joins Olson On Injured List

**Center fielder sidelined with quad strain, adds to mounting injuries.**

Detroit Tigers 

Detroit Tigers place Parker Meadows on injured list with qua

Detroit Tigers place Parker Meadows on injured list with quad strain; Andy Ibáñez recalled

##  Auburn Alum Makes PGA Waves with Top-20 Finish at 3M Open

**Young Golfer Shows Potential, Surpassing Veteran Players in Impressive Performance**

Brendan Valdes, the former Auburn star golfer and a member of the 2024 National Championship team, made waves at last weekend's 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities. The 22-year-old achieved his best professional result to date with a remarkable 15-under par performance, securing a coveted top-20 finish.

**Rising Star Outshines PGA Veterans**

Valdes's performance surpassed several seasoned PGA Tour members, including Ricky Fowler, Max Homa, and even the tournament champion Jhonattan Vegas. This impressive feat marks his second consecutive cut made in just his two career PGA Tour events.

**Back Nine Blitz Ignites Tournament Run**

The Orlando, Florida native captured attention with a stunning back nine performance on Thursday during his first round. He birdied seven of his final nine holes, finishing bogey-free with an impressive 64. This remarkable start placed him atop the leaderboard after day one.  While Friday saw him struggle to maintain that momentum, ending even par, he still held firm at a respectable 7-under par heading into the weekend.

**Weekend Magic propels Valdes towards Top 10**

Valdes rediscovered his form over the weekend, carding a 3-under par 68 on "Moving Day" before closing out the tournament with a spectacular 5-under par 66 on Sunday. His 15-under par total placed him just three strokes shy of the top 10 and eight strokes behind the eventual champion Kurt Kitayama, who finished at an impressive 23-under par.


**Future Success Beckons for Former Auburn Star**

With his early success in the PGA Tour, Valdes has clearly demonstrated the potential to compete for tournament victories soon. He will likely have to wait until August when the FedEx Cup Playoffs begin to attempt a top-10 finish. 


##  Auburn Alum Makes PGA Waves with Top-20 Finish at 3M Open

**Young Golfer Shows Potential, Surpassing Veteran Players in Impressive Performance**

Brendan V

Auburn golfer Brendan Valdes earns top 20 finish at 3M Open

## Four Top Free Agents Remain Unsigned: What's the Hold-Up?

**Restricted Free Agency Creates Complex Negotiations**

NBA free agency is mostly wrapped up, with teams enjoying a quiet summer. However, four talented players— Jonathan Kuminga (Warriors), Josh Giddey (Bulls), Cam Thomas (Nets), and Quentin Grimes (76ers)—remain unsigned. These players were ranked seventh, ninth, 11th, and 15th, respectively, in USA TODAY Sports' original Top 25 available players list.

So, why are they still on the market?  The answer lies in restricted free agency, a unique situation that complicates negotiations for both players and teams.


**Understanding Restricted Free Agency: A Player's Dilemma**

In an ideal scenario, players use other teams' interest as leverage to secure the best possible contract from their current team.  However, this offseason presents significant challenges for those seeking big paydays.

Limited cap space across the league means many teams are hesitant to offer hefty contracts, especially with potential luxury tax penalties looming. This shift in market dynamics favors teams holding the rights to these restricted free agents, as they have more bargaining power and less pressure to meet players' demands.

**Player Options: Short-Term Sacrifice for Future Gains?**


While negotiating a lucrative contract is appealing, restricted free agents face another option: accepting their team's qualifying offer. This would allow them to play out the final season of their rookie contract and become unrestricted free agents after the 2025-26 season. While this might involve playing for a below-market value in the short term, it could lead to greater earning potential when they enter the open market untethered to any team.

**Four Talented Players Seeking New Deals:**



**Jonathan Kuminga (Warriors):**
At just 22 years old, Kuminga's career with the Warriors has been marked by both flashes of brilliance and inconsistency. While his athleticism and scoring potential are undeniable, questions remain about his efficiency and role within the team.

**Case for re-signing:**  Kuminga's youth aligns with Golden State's goal of maximizing their championship window alongside veterans Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.


 **Case against:** Coach Steve Kerr has shown hesitation in trusting Kuminga in crucial moments, casting doubt on his ability to consistently perform at a high level.

**Josh Giddey (Bulls):**
Giddey is a triple-double threat who averaged 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists for the Bulls last season. However, Chicago's reluctance to offer him a large contract stems from their recent decision to give Patrick Williams a substantial five-year, $90 million deal.

**Case for re-signing:** Giddey's unique skillset and scoring ability make him a valuable asset for a team seeking playoff contention.


 **Case against:**  Chicago's commitment to Williams complicates their ability to justify a lucrative contract for Giddey, creating optics concerns within the front office.

**Cam Thomas (Nets):**
Thomas is a proven scorer who averaged 24 points per game in the limited games he played last season due to injury. However, his perceived lack of versatility beyond scoring has raised questions about his ability to thrive on a championship-contending team.

 **Case for re-signing:**  On a young, rebuilding Nets squad, Thomas offers consistent offensive production and could be valuable as a trade asset in the future.


 **Case against:** Critics label Thomas an "empty calories ball hog," questioning whether he can contribute beyond scoring on a high-caliber team.

**Quentin Grimes (76ers):**
Grimes burst onto the scene with the 76ers after the trade deadline, averaging 21.9 points per game in limited playing time.  However, Philadelphia faces financial constraints due to their star players' contracts, potentially limiting their ability to offer Grimes a significant contract.

 **Case for re-signing:** The Sixers have a history of injuries, and Grimes proved capable of excelling in a larger role.


 **Case against:** With Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and VJ Edgecombe already on the roster, Philadelphia's guard depth makes it difficult to justify a large contract for Grimes.






## Four Top Free Agents Remain Unsigned: What's the Hold-Up?

**Restricted Free Agency Creates Complex Negotiations**

NBA free agency is mostly wrapped up, wit

#Sports