Wall, Wizards defeat Knicks, 119-112

John Wall scored 23 points and had 11 assists and Otto Porter added 21 points as the host Wizards won for just the third time in 11 games, beating the Knicks, 119-112, on Thursday night.

Washington, which had lost three straight, took the lead late in the first quarter, was in front by 10 at halftime and led by 27 late in the third quarter. New York trailed 108-86 with 4:33 play before scoring 12 straight points. Wall hit two late baskets and four free throws to secure the win.

The Knicks, who allowed a season high in points, were led by Derrick Rose with 27. Carmelo Anthony (Towson Catholic) scored 19.

Kristaps Porzingis, who scored a career-high 35 points Wednesday night in a win over the Pistons, had 16.

LeBron James is giving back to a champion who shaped his life. The Cavaliers star is donating $2.5 million to support an exhibit honoring the late MuhammadAli at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington. “Muhammad Ali: A Force for Change” opened in September to honor the legacy of the boxing champ, social activist and world ambassador whose contributions transcended the sports world.