NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: May 28, 2026, 2:50 AM ET

NBA Draft & Lottery Reform

The NBA announced draft lottery reforms that will significantly alter team rebuilding strategies, while statistics reveal top-five drafting hasn't translated to NBA championships over the past two decades, creating a complex dilemma for franchises. Arizona forward Koa Peat remains in the NBA draft as a projected first-round pick, maintaining his eligibility despite the changing landscape.

Coaching Changes

Boston Celtics' Joe Mazzulla wins NBA Coach of the Year award over finalists J.B. Bickerstaff and Mitch Johnson, capping an impressive first season as head coach. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks promoted Saleh from general manager to president of basketball operations with a long-term contract extension, while the Cleveland Cavaliers retain Atkinson as head coach for the upcoming season.

Organizational Restructuring

The Los Angeles Lakers lay off staff with more than a dozen employees losing their jobs as part of a reorganization under new franchise leadership. In San Antonio, the NBA warned Wemby for violating media access rules after he failed to speak to reporters following the Spurs' Game 5 loss, highlighting the league's strict protocols for player media obligations. Argentine authorities arrested suspects connected to a transnational gang that targeted athletes' homes, including NBA and NFL stars, in a series of burglaries across South America.

Conference Finals Action

Oklahoma City Thunder adjusted tactics to overcome San Antonio, utilizing Alex Caruso, Cason Wallace and Jared McCain to claw back in their series. The Thunder now lead series 3-2 over the Knicks and are odds-on favorites to win the NBA Finals, while New York's improbable journey to the Finals included bold offseason moves and a coaching change that transformed the franchise. Conference finals storylines emerging include Victor Wembanyama's dominance and the Cavaliers' persistent scoring problems, with San Antonio benefiting from Fox's veteran leadership as the point guard elevates the team's performance.

Off-Court Developments

Aces coach Hammon defends her assertion that Jalen Brunson could lead a team to an NBA title, challenging the player to prove her wrong on basketball's biggest stage. Victor Wembanyama's rookie card sold for a staggering $5.11 million in a private sale via Fanatics Collect, underscoring the rookie's marketability and the booming basketball memorabilia market. NYC Mayor Mamdani trolls the Cavaliers after the Knicks advanced to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, declaring "I'd like to report a sweep" in a playful jab at the Cleveland team. President Donald Trump plans to attend an NBA Finals game at Madison Square Garden next month, adding another high-profile element to the championship series.