NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: May 18, 2026, 11:47 PM ET

Coaching Carousel

The New Orleans Pelicans completed their coaching search by hiring Jamahl Mosley, who compiled a 189-221 record over five seasons in Orlando with three playoff appearances. The move comes as part of a broader coaching shakeup that saw the Milwaukee Bucks also settle on a new bench boss, while the Orlando Magic and Chicago Bulls continue searching for long-term solutions. Mosley inherits a talented roster led by Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, tasked with maximizing the team's championship window.

Western Conference Finals

The Spurs will be without All-Star guard De'Aaron Fox for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against Oklahoma City after he suffered a right ankle sprain, dealing a significant blow to San Antonio's championship hopes. Meanwhile, Thunder wing Jalen Williams declared himself fully healthy after missing the past six games with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain, providing Oklahoma City with a key contributor entering the series. The injury news adds drama to a matchup where the Thunder are slight favorites despite the Spurs' veteran experience.

Eastern Conference Wrap-up

Cleveland's 125-94 Game 7 victory over Detroit sparked immediate trolling from the Cavaliers, who turned their attention to mocking the Pistons moments after securing their first conference finals berth since 2018. Despite the lopsided defeat, Detroit coach J.B. Bickerstaff insisted the season "was not a disappointment" for a young Pistons team that exceeded expectations. The loss marked the end of Detroit's surprising playoff run while sending Cleveland to face the Boston Celtics for a shot at the NBA Finals.

Offseason Outlook

As the draft combine concluded in Chicago, teams across the league are preparing for what promises to be a transformative offseason with five franchises facing league-altering decisions according to ESPN analysts. The draft, free agency, and trade markets will dominate headlines for the Pistons, Wolves, Lakers, and 26 other eliminated teams. With salary cap projections and draft position now set, front offices are actively exploring moves that could reshape the league's competitive balance heading into next season.

Player Movement & Health

Australian basketball legend Joe Ingles confirmed his return to the NBL on a two-year deal with Melbourne United, calling the decision "incredibly special" as he brings his NBA championship experience back to Australian basketball. In New York, Knicks forward OG Anunoby practiced fully and indicated his right hamstring injury is less severe than the one that hampered him during last year's playoffs, providing optimism for the team's championship aspirations. These veteran additions and recoveries could prove crucial as teams prepare for deep playoff runs.

International Notes

Former NBA champion Rick Fox was appointed as an opposition senator in the Bahamas after running unsuccessfully in the general election, continuing his post-basketball career in public service. The three-time champion with the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics brings his leadership experience to the political arena in his native Bahamas, marking an unusual transition from professional sports to government service.

Team Chemistry

Oklahoma City star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gifted teammates luxury items including Audemars Piguet watches, Burberry trench coats, and golf clubs as appreciation for their collective effort reaching the conference finals. The gesture reflects the strong locker room culture that has defined this young Thunder team throughout their playoff run. Minnesota's Anthony Edwards acknowledged San Antonio as the better team after their series defeat, walking to the Spurs bench to show respect following another early playoff exit for the Timberwolves.