NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: May 28, 2026, 5:58 AM ET

League Personnel & Front Office Changes

The NBA approved anti-tanking measures just ahead of implementing significant draft lottery reforms designed to discourage teams from intentionally losing for better draft positioning. These changes come as statistics reveal that drafting in the top five hasn't consistently translated into NBA championships over the past two decades. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks promoted Onsi Saleh from general manager to president of basketball operations with a long-term contract extension, while the Los Angeles Lakers laid off over a dozen employees as part of a reorganization under new franchise leadership. In Cleveland, Kenny Atkinson will return as head coach next season, and projected first-round pick Koa Peat kept his name in the draft despite speculation he might return to Arizona.

Coaching Recognition & Player Developments

Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla earned NBA Coach of the Year on Tuesday night, beating out finalists J.B. Bickerstaff and Mitch Johnson to wrap up the league's end-of-season awards. Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon stood by her comments suggesting Jalen Brunson could lead a team to an NBA title, challenging the point guard to prove her wrong. In San Antonio, De'Aaron Fox has taken on a leadership role since joining the team, becoming their veteran leader after choosing the Spurs over other suitors when leaving Sacramento. Victor Wembanyama received an NBA warning for violating media access rules after skipping post-game interviews following the Spurs' Game 5 loss.

Playoff Progress & Series Analysis

Oklahoma City Thunder made strategic adjustments to overcome San Antonio, utilizing Alex Caruso, Cason Wallace and Jared McCain to claw back in the series. The Thunder now hold a 3-2 series lead over the Spurs and are odds-on favorites to win the NBA Finals. The New York Knicks' improbable journey to the conference finals was fueled by bold moves and a coaching change that transformed their season. Conference finals storylines are shaping around Wemby's dominance and the Cavaliers' scoring problems as the postseason approaches its critical stage.

Off-Court News & Announcements

President Donald Trump plans to attend an NBA Finals game at Madison Square Garden next month, marking a potential high-profile appearance at what could be a Knicks-Thunder championship series. Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo faced criticism after being photographed wearing Vegas Golden Knights jerseys at a Panthers game, prompting a reaction from the Florida hockey team. In Argentina, authorities arrested suspects believed to be part of a transnational gang responsible for burglaries at the homes of well-known athletes, including NBA and NFL stars.