NBA 101

Gabriel Bortoleto on the ‘beauty’ of building in F1

AUSTIN — Gabriel Bortoleto has experienced both the highs and the lows of life on the Formula 1 grid.

The second-year driver is part of one of the grid’s newest projects, a driver for an Audi team that debuted as a works operation for the 2026 season. But a year ago, Bortoleto was driving alongside Nico Hülkenberg at Sauber, for that team’s final year on the grid. During that season, Bortoleto enjoyed a strong run of form midway through the campaign, finishing in the points in four of six races stretching from Austria to Monza.

While this year began with a points finish at the Australian Grand Prix, Bortoleto has finished inside the top ten just twice since then, with a P8 at the British Grand Prix followed by a P8 at the Belgian Grand Prix.

Yet, while the results are not where he would like them to be, there is a “beauty” in the journey according to the Brazilian driver.

“Obviously I want to be winning races but at the same time, there is a beauty of what I’m doing right now that is building a project, you know,” said Bortoleto to the media, including SB Nation, on Thursday at the United States Grand Prix.

“I’m sure everyone wants to see results straight away and win races. I’m happy for Kimi [Antonelli], for example. We have been racing in F2 together and now the guy is about to win, he’s gonna win, the world title this year. And for sure it’s a big thing, you know. You achieve your lifetime goal, that is, being a Formula One world champion. But I think every one of us has their own journey, so I would take mine as that’s it, you know, and I just need to keep doing what I’m doing and I’m building a cool project with a brand that has been successful in the sport in all the categories they have been part of.

And you know, one day I’m going to be able to tell the story that when we got to the grid we were the worst team in the championship standings by 2024, and then we brought this team to win races.

“I think that’s a cool story to be able to tell one day, but there’s a lot of work to be done to be able to tell this story, so obviously I want to fight for wins and podiums as soon as possible. That’s my main goal and we’re working on that.”

As for Audi’s chances at the United States Grand Prix, Bortoleto admitted that he did not want to be in the business of making predictions — as he’s been wrong in the past this year — but that the Circuit of the Americas should be a good track for him and the team.

“I think I stopped trying to predict when we’re good or bad because I think every time I said something, it was the opposite. So honestly, look, it should be a good track at the end of the day. You know, there’s a lot of cornering on this track, high speeds, medium speeds, a few low-speed [corners], so it’s a track that, you know, it can put our car in a position to perform,” began Bortoleto.

“But there is always something new when we drive, you know. There is always some big lessons and some interesting things when we hit a new track with these new regulations of cars. I’m sure it’s for everyone, not only for us.

“So yeah, I hope it will be a good weekend. I hope we will have a performance to deliver, and I believe we will.

“So let’s work on that.”

That process starts on Friday for Bortoleto.

But the journey will continue far beyond the first day of the 2026 United States Grand Prix.

Want to stay updated on all the latest F1 news from the United States Grand Prix? Download the brand new SB Nation app and join our F1 Community! There, you can read all the latest from the paddock and talk about Formula 1 all year long with fans from around the world!

The Warriors’ terrible Kristaps Porzingis news is a problem without a viable solution

Would you believe that Kristaps Porzingis graded out as one of the better players in the NBA last season? It’s true. Porzingis ranked No. 50 in the league in Estimated Plus-Minus and nearly cracked the top-25 in LEBRON, which are a pair of metrics that measure a player’s impact with some luck adjustments and player tracking data built in. Every all-in-one stat is going to have blindspots and needs to be taken with a large grain of salt, but both teams Porzingis played for last season — the Atlanta Hawks and Golden State Warriors — were much better with him on the court in his 32 total games, and that’s no coincidence.

Porzingis showed the whole world how good he could be on the Boston Celtics’ run to the 2024 NBA championship, when his combination of outside shooting and rim protection made him the rare center who could space the floor to the max without giving much back on defense. Porzingis’ effectiveness hasn’t been much of a question since his career-defining season in Boston, but his availability has been. Unfortunately, Porzingis remains out for the Warriors as they begin the 2026-27 season, and now the team appears ready to move on without him.

The Warriors are exploring trade packages for Porzingis as he deals with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), a nervous system disorder that causes dizziness, brain fog, chronic fatigue, and other unwanted symptoms. Porzingis is “contemplating his future in basketball” according to ESPN insider Shams Charania.

Speculation on Porzingis’ rampant health problems dating back to the Celtics’ 2024 playoff run had grown so out of control that the 31-year-old felt obligated to put out a pair of statements clarifying that doesn’t have AIDS or HIV last week. Now his NBA career might be over as the Warriors scramble for a backup plan.

Hello people, I’m working with doctors and experts to figure out how to be fully back to good health asap. Honestly, I’m getting better and better. I just have to stay patient, and I believe I’ll be feeling great again soon.

It has definitely been frustrating dealing with some…

— Kristaps Porzingis (@kporzee) October 14, 2026

I appreciate all the internet doctors trying to diagnose and help, but I’m in the best hands. So everyone can relax now 😄🙏🏼 and I don’t have hiv or aids.

— Kristaps Porzingis (@kporzee) October 14, 2026

The biggest story here is the premature end of Porzingis’ career for health problems entirely out of his control. It’s an incredibly sad development for such a talented player who had so much promise early in his career, and appeared to find renewed value after being dumped to the Washington Wizards in 2022. This is also deeply disappointing news for the Warriors, because it’s going to be tough to find another player who can approximate his skill set without adding the type of valuable future assets Golden State has resisted including in other deals.

What team would trade for a player who might be finished? Porzingis’ contract could still make him valuable around the league depending on a few factors. He only has $3 million guaranteed for next season, but counts for $20 million in a trade. If another team was looking to dump a player they don’t want around anymore with long-term money on the books, they might be incentivized to trade for Porzingis and then just cut him while stomaching the $3 million next season.

Let’s say the Milwaukee Bucks decide that they just want Myles Turner off the books as he enters the second season of a four-year, $109 million deal. The Warriors could take Turner, the Bucks could take Porzingis, and then Milwaukee could waive him to save some money. The Chicago Bulls could build a similar trade around Patrick Williams, who has three years remaining on his contract as this season begins.

The Turner idea in particular could sound good in theory, but it takes two sides to make a deal, and the Warriors don’t have much leverage. Golden State’s only real backup center is Al Horford, who is 40 years old. Charles Bassey is around too, but he’s never been counted on for more than a small role. Losing Quentin Post to the Memphis Grizzlies over the summer in free agency was a tough blow, and now the Warriors seem like they’re totally out of options in the front court unless they want to part with a meaningful asset.

Warriors lead executive Mike Dunleavy is already on the record saying fixing the team’s center problem is “not as simple as hey, let’s go find someone new” with 15 players already on the roster. Golden State is already without Jimmy Butler as he recovers from a torn ACL, and Moses Moody as he tries to come back from a ruptured patellar tendon. That’s $90 million in salary not in the lineup to start the year.

This is no way to build around Stephen Curry in his age-38 season. Rookie forward Yaxel Lendeborg looks amazing, but it’s hard to win without a reliable center, and the Warriors are being immediately put in a compromising position.

This is a bummer of a story. Let’s hope Porzingis can find peace after basketball if this really is it for his career.

Analyzing the three favorites for NWSL Rookie of the Year

The National Women’s Soccer League continues to see rookies make immediate impacts with their respective clubs and the 2026 season is no different.

There were a long list of first-year players who could have made this list, but these three have separated themselves to a point that was clear and undeniable.

Here are three names many will have as the contenders for the Rookie of the Year award.

Amelia “Mimi” Van Zanten (San Diego Wave, DF)

Could a defender win the award for the second year in a row? Mimi Van Zanten has the resume to make it happen and is already one of the very best players at her position.

Compared to other fullbacks, she has been outstanding:

• First in tackles (84) – Fifth overall in NWSL
• Second in interceptions (44) – Ninth overall in NWSL
• Third in total duels won (151) – Eighth overall in NWSL
• Third in successful dribbles (25)
• Fourth in accurate final third passes (259)
• Fifth in defensive contributions per 90
• Seventh in fouls drawn

Whether it has been as an attacker, playmaker or defender, the San Diego Wave rookie has taken care of business every single second out on the pitch.

behold, Mimi Van Zanten masterclass vs. the Spirit in 1 minute pic.twitter.com/hqzMLrvhkL

— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) August 4, 2026

Kat Rader (Houston Dash, FW)

Part of a bright young core with Houston Dash who will be a team to watch out for in the near future, Rader has already been named Rookie of the Month twice this season (May and August).

With 10 goals, she is just one away from tying the record set by Diana Ordóñez.

Here’s why she is a downright nightmare for opposing defenses:

• 10 goals – tied for 10th most in NWSL
• 5.0 xA – tied for 10th most in NWSL

She has the ability to play all over the frontline or as an attacking midfielder. Whether it is as a goalscorer or playmaker, the star attacker has been superb.

Lia Godfrey (San Diego Wave, MF)

Godfrey has already been rewarded for a stellar breakout year by signing a lucrative contract extension through the 2029 season.

The midfielder has given San Diego exactly what they needed in attack:

• Six goals – Second most for rookies
• Six assists – Tied sixth most in NWSL and leads rookies
• 12 goal contributions – Third for AMs and leads rookies
• 4.9 xG generated – Seventh most for AMs and second for rookies
• 27.5 accurate passes per 90 – Seventh most for AMs
• 37 chances created – Third most for AMs and 18th overall in NWSL
• 4.0 xA – Third most for AMs and second for rookies

Trinity Byars and Godfrey have spearheaded the Wave attack all season as they lead the team in goals and assists, respectively.

Heading into her rookie season, Godfrey was widely-regarded as the most pro-ready player available. Even now, she has smashed those expectations and more.

With steady call-ups to the U.S. U23 team already, it’s only a matter of time before she receives senior team invites next.

Prediction: Mimi Van Zanten to win

What Van Zanten has been able to accomplish as a defender speaks volumes to the incredible youth movement at San Diego under Jonas Eidevall alongside players such as Godfrey, Melanie Barcenas, Kimmi Ascanio, Dudinha, Byars and more.

Van Zanten has shut down the top opposing attackers all season long with one-of-a-kind skillset. The eye test and analytics back that up and more. On top of that, she has been terrific with the ball and in attack. Following in the footsteps of Lilly Reale last season, the NWSL has found their next premiere do-it-all defender for the next decade.

Underdog Promo Code YAHOOBONUS: Play $10 on Wednesday’s  NBA and NHL action, Get $50 in Bonus Funds

Sign up with Underdog promo code YAHOOBONUS to get a 5X return from an initial $10 play on Wednesday’s basketball and hockey action. 

Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-MY-RESET or 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org; AZ: 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783) or text NEXT-STEP to 53342; NY: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369).

This page contains affiliate links. A commission or other compensation may be earned when you click through.

Underdog promo code	YAHOOBONUS
New user offer	Place a $10 first entry and receive $50 in bonus funds
Bonus type	Receive $50 in bonus funds after an eligible first entry of at least $10; 1X playthrough required to withdraw bonus funds
Minimum deposit	$10 (all Underdog deposit methods have a $10 minimum)
Age	18+, rising to 19+ or 21+ in some states
Eligible states	40 states plus DC; check the in-app list
Information verified on	October 21, 2026

Underdog promo code terms

• New customers only: 18+ in most states, 19+ or 21+ in others. Check your state.

• Minimum deposit: $10 is the minimum deposit for all Underdog deposit methods.

• Match rate: an initial play of $10 returns $50 in bonus funds.

• Bonus funds: not withdrawable, and subject to a playthrough requirement.

• Underdog Predict: a separate prediction market with its own state list.

How to claim Underdog promo code YAHOOBONUS

1. Click through from this page to Underdog.

2. Register an account and enter promo code YAHOOBONUS.

3. Complete verification prior to your first entry.

4. Deposit at least $10.

5. Build your first pick’em entry on NBA or NHL games

Wednesday’s NBA and NHL Slates

NBA

7:00 PM ET – Milwaukee Bucks @ Washington Wizards

7:00 PM ET – Atlanta Hawks @ Orlando Magic

7:30 PM ET – Minnesota Timberwolves @ Miami Heat

7:30 PM ET – Chicago Bulls @ Toronto Raptors

7:30 PM ET – Charlotte Hornets @ Brooklyn Nets

8:00 PM ET – Utah Jazz @ Memphis Grizzlies

8:00 PM ET – Indiana Pacers @ New Orleans Pelicans

8:30 PM ET – Dallas Mavericks @ Houston Rockets

10:00 PM ET – Golden State Warriors @ Los Angeles Lakers

10:00 PM ET – Phoenix Suns @ Portland Trail Blazers

10:30 PM ET – Sacramento Kings @ LA Clippers

NHL

7:30 PM ET – Philadelphia Flyers @ Buffalo Sabres

7:30 PM ET – Florida Panthers @ Ottawa Senators

Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-MY-RESET or 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org; AZ: 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783) or text NEXT-STEP to 53342; NY: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369).

Three Underdog picks for Wednesday

Player	Projection	Our pick
Anthony Edwards, MIN	29.5 Points	Lower
Giannis Antetokounmpo, MIA	29.5 Points	Higher
Cooper Flagg, DAL	19.5 Points	Higher

Expect Giannis to put on a show in his Heat debut, which takes place against Edwards and the Timberwolves. The duo of Giannis and Bam Adebayo will make attacking the rim tough for Edwards. Look for Flagg to build on his Rookie of the Year campaign in Year 2, starting with 20 or more points tonight.

Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-MY-RESET or 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org; AZ: 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783) or text NEXT-STEP to 53342; NY: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369).

Underdog promo code FAQ

Can I withdraw the $50 in bonus funds?

No. The bonus funds are issued regardless of whether the first play wins or loses, but the bonus funds must meet a playthrough requirement to be withdrawn.

How big a deposit do I need?

$10 is the minimum deposit that can be placed with Underdog, including for first deposits.

This page contains affiliate links. A commission or other compensation may be earned when you click through.

Magic Exercise 2027-28 Options On Jase Richardson, Tristan Da Silva

The Orlando Magic picked up the third-year rookie-scale option on guard Jase Richardson and the fourth-year option on forward Tristan da Silva. Both players are now under contract through the 2027-28 season.

Richardson averaged 4.4 points, 1.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 10.9 minutes per game over 54 games as a rookie.

Richardson spent one season at Michigan State, averaging 12.1 points and shooting 41.2% from three. He made the All-Big Ten Third Team and helped the Spartans reach the Elite Eight.

Da Silva averaged 9.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 77 games, with 34 starts, last season. He shot 37.4% from three and 88.4% from the free throw line. His career high is 26 points, set against Washington on March 12.

Orlando drafted da Silva 18th overall in 2024 after four seasons at Colorado. The German forward has averaged 8.6 points in 151 career games.

Raptors Exercise 2027-28 Options On Collin Murray-Boyles, Ja’Kobe Walter

The Toronto Raptors picked up the third-year rookie-scale option on forward Collin Murray-Boyles and the fourth-year option on guard Ja’Kobe Walter. Both players are now under contract through the 2027-28 season.

Murray-Boyles made the 2025-26 All-Rookie Second Team. He averaged 8.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 57 games, including 22 starts.

The 6-foot-7 forward shot 57.9% from the field, second-best among rookies. He was one of three rookies with at least 50 blocks and 50 steals. Toronto drafted him ninth overall in 2025 out of South Carolina.

Walter averaged 7.5 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.0 steals in 72 games, with 19 starts, last season. He shot 44.6% from the field and 40.9% from three.

Toronto took Walter 19th overall in 2024 after one season at Baylor. In two seasons, he has averaged 8.0 points in 124 games.

26 former Kentucky Wildcats are on NBA rosters for the 2026-27 season

The 2026-27 NBA season is here, and 26 former Kentucky Basketball players are on opening day rosters. That’s the most of any college program and is the 15th straight season in which the Wildcats led the way.

Kentucky has at least one player on 19 of 30 NBA teams. The Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs lead the way with three Wildcats on their rosters, while the Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat and Houston Rockets each have two.

This past season, Karl-Anthony Towns won an NBA championship with the New York Knicks, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won his second consecutive NBA MVP award, which came a year after he won a title with the Thunder.

Here’s to hoping for another banner year for former Wildcats in the NBA!

Kentucky Wildcats in the NBA for the 2026-27 Season

• 76ers: Justin Edwards, Tyrese Maxey
• Bucks: Tyler Herro
• Celtics: Amari Williams
• Clippers: Isaiah Jackson
• Heat: Bam Adebayo, Nick Richards
• Kings: Malik Monk
• Knicks: Karl-Anthony Towns
• Lakers: Jarred Vanderbilt
• Mavericks: PJ Washington
• Nets: Julius Randle
• Nuggets: Jamal Murray
• Raptors: Immanuel Quickley
• Rockets: Reed Sheppard, Oscar Tshiebwe
• Spurs: De’Aaron Fox, Keldon Johnson, Jayden Quaintance
• Suns: Devin Booker
• Thunder: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Otega Oweh, Cason Wallace
• Timberwolves: Trey Lyles
• Trail Blazers: Shaedon Sharpe
• Wizards: Anthony Davis

Grizzlies Exercise 2027-28 Options On Cedric Coward, Zach Edey

The Memphis Grizzlies have exercised their 2027-28 rookie-scale options on wing Cedric Coward and center Zach Edey.

Coward made the 2025-26 All-Rookie First Team and finished fifth in Rookie of the Year voting. He averaged 13.6 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 62 games, including 47 starts.

The 23-year-old ranked sixth among rookies in scoring and fourth in rebounding. He shot 47.1% from the field and 84.3% from the free throw line. Memphis acquired the 11th pick in the 2025 draft to select him out of Washington State.

Edey, 24, has averaged 9.9 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in 77 games over his first two seasons, with 66 starts. Edey made the All-Rookie First Team in 2024-25 and finished fifth in Rookie of the Year voting.

The Grizzlies drafted the 7-foot-3 center ninth overall in 2024. At Purdue, Edey won every major national player of the year award in both his junior and senior seasons. He led the Boilermakers to the 2024 national championship game.