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Thunder’s Game 3 turnover failings have put playoff run in danger again

INDIANAPOLIS — The last time the Oklahoma City Thunder had any level of control in Game 3 of an NBA Finals that was suddenly trending against them, they were up 95-91 with 8:45 left and had just forced a missed layup that probably should’ve ended in a defensive rebound. But Chet Holmgren couldn’t grab it […]

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INDIANAPOLIS — The last time the Oklahoma City Thunder had any level of control in Game 3 of an NBA Finals that was suddenly trending against them, they were up 95-91 with 8:45 left and had just forced a missed layup that probably should’ve ended in a defensive rebound.

But Chet Holmgren couldn’t grab it in a crowd, Lu Dort accidentally helped tap it over to Andrew Nembhard and Nembhard immediately hit a 16-footer.

But that wasn’t the most deflating part of the sequence. Alex Caruso grabbed the ball as it went through the net. He took one wandering step out of bounds and flung a rushed inbound in Jalen Williams’ direction. It made it about four feet before TJ McConnell, standing directly in front of Caruso, leaped up to steal it and then dropped in a layup.

A defensive rebound would have meant a four-point lead and possession. But within five seconds, Wednesday’s game was instead tied, beginning a fourth quarter snowball that would end in a 116-107 Pacers win and a 2-1 series hole for the Thunder.

Had that McConnell leaping steal been an outlier, it wouldn’t have been such a postgame talking point. That egregious of an inbound error happens occasionally — maybe a handful of times per season to any given team.

But the Thunder were victimized three separate times in Game 3 by the same player on the same type of sneaky steal most often seen in youth basketball.

“Sucked,” Williams said. “Bad, unforced turnovers.”

This game flipped to open the second quarter. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander took his first rest of the night with the Thunder leading 32-24 after 12 minutes. He’d return three minutes later with the Thunder down 37-36.

McConnell was the spark plug of that minus-nine stretch. It included two of his three inbound steals. The first came to open the quarter. McConnell set up Pascal Siakam for a layup, baited Cason Wallace into an interception and then pinged an offensive rebound over to Bennedict Mathurin for a layup — again creating four points in a flash.

“I call them pick-sixes,” Caruso said. “It’s a live-ball turnover in your third of the court and they score. It can add up to eight, 10, 12 points, which might be the difference in the game.”

The second of McConnell’s inbound steals came a couple of minutes later while Gilgeous-Alexander was still on his brief but detrimental rest. He found Aaron Nesmith for a layup and again jumped the passing lane and ripped an unaware Williams before he could gain control of Wallace’s pass, throwing it off Wallace out of bounds to generate an extra possession that charged up the arena.

“Those plays hurt,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Because they’re very controllable. You can take your time. You make mistakes in basketball, no matter the stage. We definitely had opportunities to cover those things up. But you also don’t let plays like that happen. It just goes back to being tighter, being more focused, being more forceful all night. Things like that really hurt.”

 

The Thunder only averaged 11.7 turnovers this season, the fewest of all 30 NBA teams. They’re only averaging 12.0 in the playoffs, third-fewest among the 16 qualifying teams. They terrorize your offense, but also succeed because of their ball security, beginning with Gilgeous-Alexander, who only averaged 2.4 turnovers this season, fewest among the NBA’s top-14 scorers.

But that was a major problem in Game 3. Their offense was careless and scattered. Those three McConnell inbound steals counted for three of the Thunder’s 19 turnovers. In their previous 18 playoff games, they never committed more than 16.

Gilgeous-Alexander had six of those 19 turnovers, more than he’d committed in a game since December. That included the detrimental “pick-six” type, as Caruso mentioned, a live-ball giveaway that gifts the other team two points and revs up the crowd. Here is the worst of the night from Gilgeous-Alexander.

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault was asked postgame whether those live-ball turnovers, particularly the McConnell inbound steals, were inexcusable.

“In terms of inexcusable, everybody is out there competing and trying,” Daigneault said. “I’m not going to place blame on those plays. I just thought their overall tone was better than ours for the majority of the game. I thought we had some really good stretches, but we just made one too many mistakes and had one too many possessions on both ends of the floor where they were more tied to their identity than we were. Obviously, those (turnovers) are costly plays.”

The Thunder gave up 40 second-quarter points and didn’t force a turnover in the 12 minutes. Their bench was outscored 49-18. After a strong third quarter, they were outscored 32-18 in a fateful fourth when their offense came to a halt and their defense had too many lapses, including from Gilgeous-Alexander late, sagging too far off Nesmith and closing out too slow, leading to a dagger 3.

This all combined to deliver the Thunder their second danger point in these playoffs. Like the Nuggets series — which began with a home collapse in Game 1 and a tight Game 3 loss in Denver — they are down 2-1, staring down the barrel of a crucial Game 4 road test Friday night against a confident team and a frothing crowd.

“You’re probably just slightly more frustrated with (this 2-1 deficit),” Caruso said. “You just put in so much effort and so much into the game to not come away with a win when you have a chance, especially on the road, it definitely stings a little. That’s part of the playoffs. That’s part of the finals.”

(Photo of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Maddie Meyer / Getty Images)



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Ice Cream Social to benefit Indiana Sports Corp – AgriNews

INDIANAPOLIS — The 36th annual Ice Cream Social will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 10 on Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis. All proceeds will benefit Indiana Sports Corp to support the nonprofit’s mission to inspire and advance Indiana communities through sports and create opportunities for Indiana’s youth. Guests can enjoy hand-scooped […]

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INDIANAPOLIS — The 36th annual Ice Cream Social will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 10 on Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis.

All proceeds will benefit Indiana Sports Corp to support the nonprofit’s mission to inspire and advance Indiana communities through sports and create opportunities for Indiana’s youth.

Guests can enjoy hand-scooped ice cream, mascot visits, music, dairy merchandise and more.

Donations of $5 for an ice cream sundae and $2 for bottled water will be available at each of the four serving tents, where community all-stars will serve up the ice cream.

“Every year, the American Dairy Association Indiana selects a partner that shares our commitment to enhance youth well-being,” said Brooke Williams, director of communications at ADAI.

“As a recognized leader in our community for instilling a sense of teamwork that inspires, unites and empowers kids across the state, the Indiana Sports Corp is the perfect fit. We look forward to teaming up for this fan-favorite event.”

“Indiana Sports Corp is grateful to be selected as the beneficiary of the American Dairy Association Indiana’s Ice Cream Social,” said Ashleigh Newbold, vice president of engagement at Indiana Sports Corp.

“The funds raised through this partnership will help us expand access to sport and create meaningful experiences that enrich the lives of youth across Indiana.”

You can also preorder an ice cream party pack to throw an ice cream social at work or home.

The packs are available for $25 and include a small cooler with prizes along with:

• Two 48-ounce ice cream cartons.

• Ice cream scoop.

• One topping.

• One can of whipped cream.

• Bowls, spoons and napkins.

Preorder by July 7 and then pick it up between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on July 10 from the large tent in front of the Columbia Club in Indianapolis.

Learn more at winnersdrinkmilk.com/ice-cream-social/.



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Indians host Youth Basketball Camp

By Mark Carpenter People’s Defender Peebles varsity boys basketball coach Josh Arey, JV coach Michael Walls and their crew of high school assistants were hosts for the four-day 2925 Peebles Youth Basketball camp. The future is certainly very bright for Peebles basketball and from May 27-40 the gymnasium was filled with 39 future Indians […]

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By Mark Carpenter

People’s Defender

Peebles varsity boys basketball coach Josh Arey, JV coach Michael Walls and their crew of high school assistants were hosts for the four-day 2925 Peebles Youth Basketball camp. The future is certainly very bright for Peebles basketball and from May 27-40 the gymnasium was filled with 39 future Indians looking to improve their fundamental skills.

The camp focused on shooting, ball handling, free throws, defense, rebounding, work ethic, attitude, and playing within the team concept. Competitions were held in 1 on 1, 2 on 2, 3 on 3, Hot Shot and Free Throws.The campers ranged from between grades 1-6 and went home the last day with a basketball and a camp t-short.

The lost of campers included:

First/Second Grade: Rand Arey, Knox Perdue, Bradley McClure, Tucker Smalley, Memphis Penn, Brantley Lowe, Sawyer Cline, Easton Bricking, Jude Workman, Scout Abbott, Dallas Crothers

Third Grade: Kaison Puckett, Irving Fawley, Noah Miller, Remington Fossyl, Fynn Myers, Ira Bohl

Fourth Grade: Max Cline, Nolan Miller, Benson Bailey, Oakley Beam, Jaxson Shiveley, Heath Grant

fifth Grade: Brantley McClure, Landon Edmisten, Grayson Conley

Sixth Grade: Kanon Craft, Braylen Shiveley, Will Fitzgerald, Collier Carroll, Kaiden Fossyl, Liam Carroll, Hunter Mullins, Asher Beam, Christian McClary, Ryker Richards, Henry Pertuset, Trevin Young, Ezra Bohl



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5 Powerful Ways Softball Players Honor 4th of July

Simple, Powerful Ways to Play with Purpose Bonnie Holland Extra Inning Softball CEO July 4 ,2025 https://extrainningsoftball.com/wp-content/uploads/5-Powerful-Ways-Softball-Players-Can-Honor-4th-of-July-5-ways.mp3 5 Powerful Ways Softball Players Honor July 4th Extra Inning Softball shares a timely message for the softball community this Independence Day: honor the game by honoring the values it reflects. Softball players, teams, and families can embrace […]

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Simple, Powerful Ways to Play with Purpose

Bonnie Holland

Bonnie Holland

Extra Inning Softball CEO

July 4 ,2025



5 Powerful Ways Softball Players Honor July 4th

Extra Inning Softball shares a timely message for the softball community this Independence Day: honor the game by honoring the values it reflects. Softball players, teams, and families can embrace the spirit of July 4th by being great teammates, working with purpose, and using their platforms to inspire others. With countless young athletes lacing up their cleats during this holiday week, there’s no better moment to lead with heart. Here are five impactful ways softball players can celebrate America’s birthday—on and off the field.

As we reflect on the significance of Independence Day, it’s essential to understand what it means to honor this holiday through our actions in sports. The values of teamwork, perseverance, and dedication are mirrored in both the spirit of softball and the spirit of America. Let’s delve deeper into how these principles can be lived out by every softball player.

EXTRA INNING SOFTBALL

1. Be the Best Teammate Today
One of the most meaningful ways softball players can honor July 4th is by being strong teammates. That means cheering even when you’re not in the game, offering encouragement after mistakes, and setting a positive tone. Great teammates create lasting impact. Support isn’t just a gesture—it’s a form of leadership. The energy you bring to your dugout can elevate your whole team.

Encouragement can take many forms – from simple verbal affirmations to organized team bonding exercises that reinforce camaraderie. For instance, consider implementing a pre-game ritual where players share personal goals or express gratitude for one another. This not only strengthens team unity but also builds a supportive environment where everyone feels valued.

2. Work Hard Because You Can
In America, female athletes have the freedom to pursue competitive sports. That’s not the case everywhere. This holiday is a powerful reminder that working hard is both a right and a responsibility. Show up early. Go all in during conditioning. Dive into every rep with focus and pride. Your work ethic is a tribute to the opportunities generations before you fought to create.

Working hard is also about setting an example. Young athletes look up to their older teammates. By demonstrating your commitment to hard work, you inspire others to push their limits. Share your training routines on social media, or create a video series showcasing drills and conditioning exercises that emphasize dedication and resilience.

3. Use Your Voice to Uplift Others
Social media and team leadership platforms give athletes the chance to make a difference. Whether you’re posting a thank-you to a coach, honoring a military family, or sharing a faith-based message of hope, what you say matters. Athletes today are influencers—on the field and online. Use that reach for good. According to The Aspen Institute, youth sports participants who engage in positive leadership roles build stronger character and resilience.

It’s important to remember that using your voice doesn’t always mean making grand statements. Sometimes, the smallest gestures have the most significant impact. For example, writing a heartfelt message to a teammate who may be struggling can uplift their spirits and foster a sense of belonging. Additionally, consider organizing team volunteer opportunities to uplift your community and support local causes.

4. Say Thank You to Those Who Serve
Many softball players have family members in the military or in public service. Take time this holiday to express gratitude. A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Whether it’s a coach who served, a parent who supports your dreams behind the scenes, or a teammate from a military family—acknowledge their sacrifice. As USA Softball notes in its Stars & Stripes program, patriotism and sports go hand in hand when players honor those who make freedom possible.

Moreover, expressing gratitude can be a community affair. Encourage your team to participate in local events that honor veterans or first responders. This not only shows respect but also builds a connection between your team and the community, creating a culture of appreciation that extends beyond the softball field.

5. Lead With Heart, On and Off the Field
True leaders don’t just shine in stats—they shine in moments. Help a younger player at practice. Clean up the dugout after a game. Model respect for umpires and opponents. This July 4th, leadership isn’t about spotlight. It’s about integrity. Use this moment to recommit to the values that make great athletes even greater people.

Leadership can also manifest in day-to-day actions. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute. For instance, develop a mentorship program within your team where experienced players guide younger ones, sharing skills and knowledge. This initiative fosters a sense of belonging and nurtures future leaders in the sport.

Make This Holiday Count
Softball players honor July 4th best when they bring passion, purpose, and pride to everything they do. Independence Day is more than fireworks—it’s a celebration of opportunity. So whether you’re on a field this week or off it, make the most of the moment. Be a better teammate. Train with heart. Use your platform to spark change. The freedom to play is a gift. Playing with purpose is how you give back.

Finally, consider establishing a tradition for your team that coincides with July 4th, such as a special game or event that pays homage to the holiday. This could involve wearing themed uniforms or hosting a charity event that benefits veterans or military families. By committing to such traditions, you create a legacy of honor that can be passed down to future generations of players.


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Diving Etiquette in the Outfield

Summer Sisterhood: 3 Reasons Why These Relationships Last a Lifetime





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SOCCER BUSINESS: ASCNY, Desroches Foundation form partnership

Overview: The American Soccer Club NY Fighting Tomcats have announced a partnership with The William Desroches Foundation. UNIONDALE, N.Y. — The American Soccer Club NY Fighting Tomcats have announced a partnership with The William Desroches Foundation. This collaboration supports the foundation’s mission to honor William Desroches’ legacy by funding the construction of a synthetic turf […]

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Overview:

The American Soccer Club NY Fighting Tomcats have announced a partnership with The William Desroches Foundation.

UNIONDALE, N.Y. — The American Soccer Club NY Fighting Tomcats have announced a partnership with The William Desroches Foundation.

This collaboration supports the foundation’s mission to honor William Desroches’ legacy by funding the construction of a synthetic turf soccer and lacrosse field at Forest Lake Elementary School in Wantagh, N.U.

Desroches was a teen student athlete and member of the Wantagh community, who passed away after a jet ski accident in August 2023. In his memory, family and friends established the William Desroches Foundation in 2024 to celebrate his passion for youth sports and his dedication to building strong communities.

“This partnership brings together two organizations driven by a shared vision of community, youth development, and a love of the game,” Don Desroches, founder of the William Desroches Foundation, said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to work with the American Soccer Club New York to help make the new field at Forest Lake a reality.”

The National Premier Soccer League said that it will support the Foundation’s fundraising efforts through joint events, community outreach, and enhanced visibility at matches and public engagements. These efforts kick off Saturday, July 5, at Hofstra University, when the club faces off against New Haven United FC with a playoff berth on the line.

“We’re honored to partner with the William Desroches Foundation and contribute to such an important cause,” ASCNY managing partner/general manager Jim Kilmeade said in a statement. “Building a field where kids can play, learn, and grow is exactly the kind of impact we want to have.”

The game is Fan Appreciation Night.



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Are your kids getting bored? Sign them up for these local summer camps

Are your kids starting to get bored this summer? Sign them up for summer camps. Monroe County children and teens still have several options for summer camps, classes and activities this year. Here are some of them: The Opportunity Center at the Arthur Lesow Community Center, 120 Eastchester St. in Monroe, is again offering free […]

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Are your kids starting to get bored this summer? Sign them up for summer camps. Monroe County children and teens still have several options for summer camps, classes and activities this year. Here are some of them:

  • The Opportunity Center at the Arthur Lesow Community Center, 120 Eastchester St. in Monroe, is again offering free weekly camps for children ages 7-13. Camps meet from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

New last year, Boxing Camp returns this summer. An evening session will take place the weeks of July 7 and 14.

Healthy and Fit Camp runs the week of July 7. Digital Literacy Camp runs the week of July 14. Life Skills Camp takes place the week of July 21. Art with Amy Camp runs the week of July 28. Young Authors Camp is the week of Aug. 4. Skilled Trades Camp is the week of Aug. 11.

“Each week will be filled with engaging activities. Breakfast and lunch will be provided daily by Sodexo,” organizers said.

To learn more or to register, call 734-241-4313 or visit Facebook.

  • Monroe County Community College is offering several summer camps on its main campus, 1555 S. Raisinville Road in Monroe. Programs are available for all ages. Camps have fees, ranging from $69-$112.

Topics this summer include cooking, art, photography, guitar, Lego, architecture/engineering, agriculture, basketball, firearm safety, CAD, meteorology and robotics.

Registration is due at least a week before camp begins. Learn more at monroeccc.augusoft.net or call 734-384-4127.

  • Meadow Montessori, 1670 S. Raisinville Road in Monroe, is offering several camps for various fees. Some of the topics include STEM, farm life, robotics, Spanish language, dance, farm-to-table cooking, raising monarchs and mural art. The catalog is available at meadowmontessori.org/summer.
  • The Monroe Family YMCA, 1111 W. Elm Ave. in Monroe, offers Summer Day Camp and several youth programs, including sports classes. Summer Day Camp runs daily through Aug. 22. The Y’s summer session of classes runs through Aug. 31. Scholarships are available for those with financial need. To learn more, visit monroefamilyymca.org.
  • River Raisin Centre for the Arts, 114 S. Monroe St. in Monroe, is offering summer programs for area children.

Two more sessions of Princess Ballet will be offered this summer to children ages 3-7. Sessions will run July 22-24 and Aug. 5-7. Each offers an introduction to ballet.

Summer dance classes will be offered July 22-24 and Aug. 5-7. Led by RRCA instructors, the classes offer several dance styles for all skill levels and ages, including adults. For more information, visit riverraisincentre.org or call 734-242-7722.

  • The popular SurvivorKids Day Camp is taking place this summer the Knabusch Math & Science Center, 6670 Waters Edge Drive in Monroe. Camp runs weekly through the week of July 20. An Advanced SurvivorKids Camp runs July 27-31. Attendees learn basic survivor skills, such as building a shelter, fishing, tracking and animal and plant identification. To learn more, see the camp brochure.

New this year are Chess Camp, Drama Camp and SMCC Survivor Kids Camp. Other upcoming camps include: Kestrels Volleyball Camp, Falcons Football Camp, SMCC Cross Country Camp and SMCC Cheerleading Camp.

Sessions meet at various area locations, including Munson Park, SMCC, Knabusch Math & Science Center, St. Charles Church in Newport and Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary campus.

For more information or to register, email Kyle McElvany, director of summer camps, at kmcelvany@smccmonroe.com or visit smccmonroe.com.

  • The Monroe County Library System, which has 16 branches throughout Monroe County, is offering its annual summer reading program this summer. The free program offers prizes for reading books and special programs and activities at the branches, including storytimes, crafts and playgroups. To learn more, visit the library’s website.
  • Milan Public Library, 151 Wabash St. in Milan, is offering a summer reading program and several children’s activities. See the offerings here.
  • Flat Rock Public Library, 25200 Gibraltar Road in Flat Rock, is offering a summer reading program and the teen program MiLibrary Quest. Learn more on the library’s website.
  • The City of Monroe’s Tot Lot program runs through July 18. Admission is free, but small fees may be charged for some projects.

Activities such as painting, crafts, games and Slip and Slide are offered from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays at several city parks: Greenwood Park (Greenwood Avenue), Labor Park (Second Street), Munson Park (North Custer Road), Father Cairns Park (Eighth Street) and St. Mary’s Park (West Elm Avenue).

Meals are served daily by Sodexo. Meals are served from 10:15-11 a.m. and noon-1 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, through July 24 at at St. Mary’s Park, Munson Park and Greenwood Park. Meals are served from 10:15-11 a.m. and noon-1 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, through July 25, at Labor Park and Father Cairns Park.

Children ages 5-12 are welcome. Children younger than 5 may attend with an adult.

Tot Lots are offered in partnership with the Opportunity Center at the Arthur Lesow Community Center. For more information, call 734-241-4313.

  • Monroe Charter Township’s CampKids Program, formerly called Tot Lot, runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, through July 25, at Oakridge Estates, Ravenwood, South Monroe Townsite and Willow Green neighborhood parks.

Children ages 5-13 can take part in crafts and games. Admission is free, but some projects have a small fee.

— Contact reporter Suzanne Nolan Wisler at swisler@monroenews.com.



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Independence Day 2025 Float Winners

Area residents, club members and businesses registered a combined 100 floats in the 50th Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber of Commerce Independence Day parade, held on Friday. A panel of judges deliberated and chose their favorite entries for the 2025 event. Congratulations to the following winners! Best OverallLinstead on the Severn Most PatrioticAirman First […]

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Area residents, club members and businesses registered a combined 100 floats in the 50th Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber of Commerce Independence Day parade, held on Friday. A panel of judges deliberated and chose their favorite entries for the 2025 event. Congratulations to the following winners!

Best Overall
Linstead on the Severn

Most Patriotic
Airman First Class Nathaniel McDavitt Memorial Scholarship Fund

Best Theme
Olde Severna Park Improvement Association

Best Community
1. Linstead on the Severn
2. Round Bay
3. Olde Severna Park Improvement Association

Best Commercial
1. Homestead Gardens and The Greene Turtle (tie)
2. Pedal Pushers
3. Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi

Best Club/Nonprofit
1. Magothy River Association with Maguire Marine Construction
2. Severna Park High School marching band
3. SPAN





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