NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: May 19, 2026, 5:54 AM ET

MVP & Thunder Drama

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged subpar play in his MVP celebration game Monday, despite receiving his second consecutive MVP trophy in a pregame ceremony. The Thunder star's admission came after a thrilling Western Conference finals opener where Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox missed Game 1 due to a right ankle sprain, leaving San Antonio without their floor general. Oklahoma City's 109-104 victory gave them a 1-0 series lead, though the performance fell short of SGA's gift-giving gesture earlier that saw him distribute Audemars Piguet watches, Burberry trench coats and golf clubs to teammates. The Spurs now face an uphill climb without Fox, whose absence shifts defensive responsibilities to rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama in what promises to be a physical series.

Coaching Carousel

The New Orleans Pelicans completed their coaching search by hiring Jamahl Mosley away from Orlando, where he compiled an 189-221 record over five seasons with three playoff appearances. Mosley's appointment continues a busy coaching offseason that saw Milwaukee and New Orleans secure long-term options while Chicago and Orlando remain in search of permanent solutions. The Pelicans hope Mosley can maximize their young core featuring Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram after the team failed to advance past the play-in tournament this season.

Playoff Fallout

Cleveland's dominant 125-94 Game 7 victory over Detroit secured their first conference finals berth since 2018, though the Pistons' season ended without disappointment according to coach J.B. Bickerstaff, who praised his team's growth despite the lopsided loss. The Cavaliers turned their attention to trolling Detroit immediately after the buzzer, setting up a highly anticipated conference finals matchup against the Boston Celtics. Meanwhile, Spurs-Thunder series takeaways reveal Oklahoma City's championship pedigree while San Antonio must adjust without their All-Star point guard.

Player Moves & International

Former NBA champion Rick Fox transitioned to politics after being appointed to the Bahamas Senate as part of the main opposition party, marking an unusual career pivot for the three-time champion. In international basketball, Australian legend Joe Ingles confirmed his NBL return with Melbourne United on a two-year deal, calling the decision "incredibly special" after his NBA career concluded. The move represents a significant coup for the Australian league as they continue attracting former NBA talent.

Injury Updates & Offseason Outlook

New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby practiced Saturday and indicated his right hamstring injury is less severe than the one that plagued him during the 2024 playoffs, providing optimism for the Eastern Conference finals. As four teams remain active, the offseason guides detail draft positioning, free agency targets and trade possibilities for eliminated franchises. The league-altering decisions facing several star players this summer could reshape the NBA landscape heading into next season.