Washington claims first NBA playoff victory since 1988
Apr 30, 2005
Gilbert Arenas scored 32 points and Etan Thomas added 20 as the Washington Wizards captured their first National Basketball Association playoff triumph since 1988, beating Chicago 117-99.

Inexperience Threatens Kings' Playoff Run
Apr 28, 2005
When the Sacramento Kings needed a big shot in seasons past, Chris Webber wanted to take it. A big defensive stop fell on Doug Christie's capable shoulders. Most leadership issues could be handled by the beloved Vlade Divac.

Spurs Rout Nuggets 104-76, Even Series 1-1
Apr 27, 2005
The San Antonio Spurs didn't let Game 2 come down to fourth-quarter shooting. The Spurs made nine of their first 10 shots Wednesday and then outscored Denver by 20 points in the second quarter en route to a 104-76 win that evened their first-round playoff series at one win each.

MLB Suspends Mariners' Strong for 10 Days
Apr 26, 2005
Seattle Mariners minor league outfielder Jamal Strong was suspended for 10 days Tuesday, making him the fourth player to test positive under major league baseball's new policy on performance-enhancing drugs.

Top-Seeded Heat Set to Host Nets
Apr 24, 2005
History suggests this could be easy. The Miami Heat know better. Sure, top-seeded teams often roll in the conference quarterfinal round of the NBA playoffs. Plus, three regular-season games between Miami and New Jersey all wound up in similar fashion: the Heat in a blowout.

Detroit Pistons Flatten Philadelphia 76ers
Apr 23, 2005
Rasheed Wallace scored 16 of his 29 points in the third quarter, as Detroit overcame an early 16-point deficit for a 106-85 win over Philadelphia in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals.

N.J. Officials OK Giants Stadium Deal
Apr 22, 2005
The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority on Friday approved a deal clearing the way for the New York Giants to get a new stadium.

Paxson Out As Cavaliers Start Rebuilding
Apr 21, 2005
Their shocking collapse complete, the Cleveland Cavaliers began to rebuild on Thursday — from the top. Jim Paxson was fired as the club's general manager, dismissed by new owner Dan Gilbert one day after the Cavaliers' chaotic season ended short of the NBA playoffs for the seventh consecutive year.

Armstrong to Retire After Tour De France
Apr 18, 2005
Lance Armstrong is retiring after this year's Tour de France, ending a cycling career in which he inspired millions by overcoming testicular cancer to win his sport's signature event a record six straight times.

Slumping Cavaliers Lose; Playoffs in Peril
Apr 17, 2005
LeBron James moved one step closer to watching the playoffs from home. The Detroit Pistons used a balanced attack in a 90-87 win over the slumping Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, overcoming James' 37 points, 11 rebounds and six assists.