Good morning, Maricopa.

On June 5, Perry High School renamed the street leading to the school—Jalen Williams Way—to honor alumnus Jalen Williams, an Oklahoma City Thunder player.

Williams, a 2019 graduate chosen for the NBA All-Star Game, is part of the Thunder team—facing the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Finals—and the change reflects the school’s pride in its former star.

After a disappointing monsoon season in 2024, Arizona is expecting a robust rainy period as the official monsoon starts June 15—Sept.

30 with early record rains, including Phoenix recording 0.24 inches on June 1. Forecasts predict most areas will receive above normal precipitation and that the rains may help lower wildfire risks in a dry summer.

Experts say that light-colored homes and vehicles reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, which keeps them cooler during hot Arizona days.

Maricopa residents may use this science to choose colors that lower cooling costs—helping them beat the summer heat.

At Hickman Farms, millions of chickens died after a bird flu outbreak, and neighbors have asked officials for details about the remains of the euthanized birds.

Officials have not yet provided further information — local residents continue to seek answers.

Maricopa County’s health department reported the first heat-related death of 2025 when a man who suffered heat complications in 2024 died on Wednesday — officials say his case shows that extreme heat can have delayed effects — and they are reviewing similar incidents.

The Phoenix Suns have not seen the expected results with Durant and will work with his agent on a summer trade deal that includes draft picks and players who contribute immediately.

The report names potential partners such as the Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, and San Antonio Spurs+ each offering different assets for the deal.

An ESPN writer said Arizona State football might be undervalued as its FPI rating gives the team a 16.1% chance to make the College Football Playoff in the upcoming season—he pointed out the Sun Devils are set to return key players like quarterback Sam Leavitt despite losing star running back Cam Skattebo. The team will open its season Aug 30 at home against Northern Arizona and aims to show its fire and motivation on the field.

Former ASU player Lu Dort is in his sixth season with the Oklahoma City Thunder and earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive first team — his strong defense making a big difference.

The Thunder began a best-of-seven finals series against the Indiana Pacers on June 5 — with teammates Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander helping as they aim for a championship.