Basketball

Preview capsules for the NBA's conference semifinals: EASTERN CONFERENCE No. 2 BOSTON CELTICS (57-25, 4-2) vs. No. 3 PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (54-28, 4-0) Season series: Celtics, 3-1.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Gary Payton II beamed as he shared the special news: He's now a college graduate.

DENVER (AP) — Nikola Jokic galloped around the practice court and bounced off Nuggets teammates in celebration of winning a shooting contest.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon did not comment directly Friday on a report that the Toronto Raptors have received permission to interview her for their vacant head coaching position.

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio (AP) — The Cavaliers got blown out. J.B. Bickerstaff held on. Cleveland's coach has the organization's backing — and his job appears to be safe for now — despite a swift first-round exit in the NBA playoffs.

PHOENIX (AP) — The NBA's Phoenix Suns and WNBA's Phoenix Mercury announced a media rights deal on Friday that could pave the way for local sports broadcasts following the much-publicized struggles of regional sports networks.

PHOENIX (AP) — Kevin Durant and Nike have agreed to a lifetime contract, making him just the third NBA player to receive such a deal, joining Michael Jordan and LeBron James.

ATLANTA (AP) — After a surprising run to the conference final two years ago, the Atlanta Hawks had their sights set on being a championship contender. Instead, they sank back to the middle of the NBA. Not a good spot.

MIAMI (AP) — Jimmy Butler is different. Some players hit beaches over All-Star break; Butler went to Argentina to watch tennis and learn about coffee.

NEW YORK (AP) — LeBron James for years professed his love for Madison Square Garden, then declined the chance to make it his home.