Rachel Nichols gave her first in-depth interview explaining the circumstances behind her departure from ESPN. She revealed that a private conversation about ESPN’s diversity initiatives, which was leaked without her consent, played a major role in her removal from NBA Finals coverage and cancellation of her show. Nichols expressed regret over any unintended harm caused and emphasized that her remarks were taken out of context. Since leaving ESPN, she has moved on to contribute to Showtime Basket

It shouldn’t be true at the NBA level, but we all know it is – some guys just work harder than others. On Open Run, the Pacers’ TJ McConnell says that’s how he made it to the NBA, how he’s helped his team get one win away from a title, and how he became the first bench player to *ever* to record 60 points, 25 assists and 15 rebounds in an NBA Finals. | Rachel Nichols

The Chicago Bears in…Indiana?? Today the Bears released a statement saying how excited they were for their “vision” of a taxpayer-funded stadium in Hammond, Indiana. Umm…nope. If you can’t afford to keep the team in Chicago, sell it. Period. | Rachel Nichols