The numbers back up Shaq's claims. Whereas he averaged 30 points per contest in the 2000 and 2001 playoffs, his output slightly dipped to 28.5 points. Meanwhile, though Kobe averaged 26.6 points per contest, a slight dip from his 29.4 output in 2001, the Lower Merion High School standout filled the stat sheet when it mattered most.

Alexander, three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić, two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and now 21-time All-NBA Teamer LeBron James were among those who earned this year's All-NBA honors, which were announced on Friday.

SportsLine expert Matt Severance reveals his NBA playoff predictions for Game 1 of Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

Veteran NBA referee Scott Foster took a bloody shot to the nose during a jump ball during game 2 of the Western Conference Finals, causing the matchup to be paused briefly.

NBA official Scott Foster was bloodied on Thursday night during Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals between the Thunder and Timberwolves.

Alexander, Nikola Jokic or Giannis Antetokounmpo? NBA MVP award information for 2025, including announcement, finalists, favorite.