Two banned

for life

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — The NBA banned two people for life from its arenas after one of them was arrested after running onto the court during Game 1 of the NBA Finals and appearing to take a selfie next to Victor Wembanyama.

The San Antonio Spurs star didn’t appear bothered by the incident, which occurred in the fourth quarter of Wednesday’s game between the Spurs and Knicks. The NBA didn’t disclose what role the second person played in that incident.

Another incident involving fan behavior occurred in the final minute, when New York guard Jalen Brunson appeared to be upset by something said to him by a patron in a courtside seat. Commissioner Adam Silver says the league is looking into what was said to Brunson.

Meanwhile, bars in Brooklyn overflowed and “Knicks in Four” chants erupted shortly after midnight following the Knicks’ 105-95 win.

Players share

struggles

ANTALYA, Turkey (AP) — Iran is heading to the World Cup amid tensions with the main host nation, creating a unique situation in tournament history. Two Iranian players shared their struggles to stay focused on soccer.

Saeid Ezatolahi, a 29-year-old midfielder, said it’s challenging to manage the political situation while preparing for his third World Cup.

The team has been training in Turkey and plans to move to Tijuana, Mexico, due to visa issues. Mohammad Ghorbani, attending his first World Cup, emphasized the importance of playing for their people. He said the team aims to bring joy and pride to Iranians.

Williams

names partner

LONDON (AP) — Serena Williams will make her return to professional tennis playing doubles alongside a partner who is 25 years younger. Victoria Mboko is a 19-year-old Canadian ranked No. 9.

Mboko has revealed she will have the “honor” of playing with the 44-year-old Williams as a wild-card entry at the Queen’s Club next week. They practiced on the grass courts in west London on Thursday.

Mboko says in a post on Instagram: “The Queen is back.” Mboko says “an honor to share the court with one of the greatest athletes of all time this week. Even more excited to play doubles together!”

Pickens misses

Cowboys workout

FRISCO, Texas (AP) — George Pickens isn’t with the Dallas Cowboys during the opening week of voluntary offseason practices, while coach Brian Schottenheimer says the receiver is “taking care of his business” and their communication has been good.

Pickens signed his $27.3 million franchise tag a little more than a month ago but has stayed away from the team. The Pro Bowler isn’t required to show up until mandatory minicamp June 16-18.

Pickens waited two months before signing the one-year contract that’s worth three times what the 25-year-old earned on his four-year rookie contract.