In brief: Spurs’ Tony Parker plans to play in Game 1 of NBA Finals

NBA: Tony Parker plans to play in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The San Antonio Spurs open their rematch with the Miami Heat on Thursday, and their star point guard is nursing a balky left ankle.

“He’s getting better every day, and I expect him to play,” coach Gregg Popovich said Tuesday.

Parker, who is averaging a team-leading 17.2 points and 4.9 assists this postseason, aggravated his injury Saturday. He didn’t practice Tuesday, but says he expects to be back today. “I’ll do my best,” said Parker.

• Spurs get home court, chance at revenge /B3

Bettman reduces Carcillo’s ban

NHL: Commissioner Gary Bettman cut Daniel Carcillo’s suspension from 10 games to six, meaning the New York Rangers enforcer could play in the Stanley Cup Final.

Carcillo was suspended on May 23 after he appeared to elbow linesman Scott Driscoll, who was trying to keep Carcillo away from a fight, during Game 3 of the East finals. The original ban would have kept him completely out of the Cup finals Now Carcillo, who has already served three games, is eligible to play in Game 4.

• 10 things to watch in Stanley Cup Final /B3

Bennett extended through 2021

College basketball: Virginia men’s coach Tony Bennett has a new seven-year contract.

Athletic director Craig Littlepage says the contract carries through the 2020-21 season and increases Bennett’s salary and supplemental compensation to $1.942 million.

The former Washington State coach led the Cavaliers to a school record-tying 30 victories, including the ACC regular-season and tournament championships. Virginia made its first appearance in the Sweet 16 since 1995. Their season ended with a 61-59 loss to Michigan State.