Mo money, mo problems

The GIST: While it might not be safe to go to a movie theater right now, the NBA free agency has given us all the Blockbuster action we need. Plus, there’s even more to watch, with college basketball finally tipping off on Wednesday. Getcha popcorn ready.

Exciting! Tell me about free agency: Big names are on the move, including forward Gordon Hayward, who is leaving the Boston Celtics for the Charlotte Hornets (and a cool $120 million). And former Toronto Raptors Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol will trade in their snow boots for swim trunks after signing two-year deals with the LA Clippers and Lakers, respectively.

• Meanwhile, some players are staying put but making headlines by securing the bag. Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell signed a five-year, $195 million (!!!) contract extension. Yeah, dinner is definitely on him.

Are there any other players to watch for?: A handful of free agents remain unsigned, including LA Lakers star Anthony Davis. We expect Davis to stay with the defending champions, but he’s in no rush to put pen to paper.

• Another key player to keep an eye on is James Harden, who recently declined a $50 million per year contract extension with the Houston Rockets. The Beard is reportedly hoping to land with the Brooklyn Nets, but there are plenty of options for the eight-time All-Star.

And what’s up in college basketball?: After the 2019–20 season abruptly ended in March (still shook that happened this year), a new college basketball season finally begins on Wednesday.

• On the women’s side, watch out for No. 1 South Carolina, led by legendary coach Dawn Staley and reigning national freshman of the year Aliyah Boston. No. 3 UConn will also rely on young talent, including 2020 top recruit Paige Bueckers.
  

• For the men, keep tabs on No. 2 Baylor and returning point guard Jared Butler, who averaged 16 points per game last season. No. 3 Villanova is the other team to watch, led by senior guard Collin Gillespie. Bring on the madness!