NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: September 18, 2026, 6:03 AM ET

Michael Sweetney Dies at 43

Former Knicks and Bulls forward Michael Sweetney, who played four NBA seasons after starring at Georgetown, has died at 43. The 6-foot-8 big man was selected ninth overall by New York in 2003 and later suited up for Chicago, averaging career totals that reflected his rugged interior presence. Georgetown and the broader basketball community mourned a player remembered as much for his bruising post game as for the battles he fought away from the floor.

Knicks News and Roster Moves

Jalen Brunson is set to guest star on "Law & Order: SVU," with NBC announcing the Knicks guard will appear in the season's fifth episode. New York also added veteran forward John Konchar on a one-year deal, per his agent George S. Langberg. Off the court, the franchise paused ticket sales after a pricing error caused fans to be charged significantly higher costs than intended.

Pelicans Extend Bey

New Orleans locked up forward Saddiq Bey on a three-year, $55.5M extension, keeping a versatile wing in the fold as the Pelicans reshape their rotation around their young core. The deal signals the front office's confidence that Bey's two-way play can anchor the wing minutes for years to come.

Celtics, Cavaliers Adjust After Trades

Paul George said he is ready to prove himself in Boston, acknowledging Celtics fans' angst over the blockbuster trade that sent Jaylen Brown the other way. In Cleveland, Peyton Watson is eager to showcase his all-around game, noting the Cavaliers were not among the first teams to pursue him before the deal came together.

Raptors Bet on Kawhi

Toronto's offseason recap centers on the Kawhi Leonard trade, pairing the two-time Finals MVP with Scottie Barnes in a bid to bring the franchise back to contention. The preview frames the Raptors' 2026-27 outlook around whether that star duo can translate into a genuine title push.

Future Power Rankings

ESPN's three-year outlook stacks all 30 teams for 2026-27 and beyond, with Oklahoma City and San Antonio leading the projections. Insiders weighed roster age, cap flexibility and draft capital to project which franchises are best positioned for sustained success through 2029.

Edwards Trolls Sixers Stars

Anthony Edwards called out LeBron James and Jaylen Brown in a new Adidas spot, with the Timberwolves star declaring "we ain't gonna play it safe" while taking aim at Philadelphia's new additions. The ad leans into Edwards' reputation as one of the league's most fearless trash-talkers.

Clippers Penalty Explained

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said the league reviewed similar cases before handing down penalties to the Clippers, arguing the organization needed "competitive consequences." Silver framed the decision as consistent with precedent rather than an unprecedented sanction.

Fantasy Basketball Prep

With drafts approaching, Andre Snellings laid out 10 tips to win your league, covering draft strategy, waiver-wire discipline and roster construction. For newcomers, a separate guide explains how to set up a league and play, making the case that this is the year to try fantasy basketball even if you never have before.