NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

NBA Offseason Moves and Investigations

The NBA is investigating a deal between the Milwaukee Bucks and Gary Trent Jr. for a potential four-year, $64 million contract, raising concerns about salary cap circumvention. In other league news, Commissioner Adam Silver stated that the probe into Kawhi Leonard for alleged cap circumvention must conclude before the upcoming season begins. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers have signed Donovan Mitchell to a significant contract extension, reportedly valued at nearly $275 million as they inked the deal.

Free Agency Speculation and Player Decisions

LeBron James remains undecided about his next team, fueling speculation as the veteran forward continues his free agency. Pat Riley and Giannis Antetokounmpo have expressed their desire for LeBron James to return to the Miami Heat, with Antetokounmpo stating he is "excited" about the prospect of playing alongside him. However, Antetokounmpo also emphasized his personal drive, declaring "Whatever it takes" to win a championship with the Heat, citing the pressure and history of the franchise as motivation.

Team Building and Player Valuations

The Washington Wizards are hoping a new trio will transform their team from last place in the Eastern Conference into a competitive contender, with optimism that "this team can be super special" according to. The Minnesota Timberwolves believe they have acquired a star point guard in LaMelo Ball, with team president Tim Connelly suggesting Ball at a steep price could "elevate" the team's potential and ceiling. In international news, Jonas Valanciunas has left the NBA to join Lithuanian club Zalgiris Kaunas on a two-year contract.

League Matters and Player Discipline

The NBA will not punish Bam Adebayo for an altercation with Tyler Herro at a Las Vegas gym. In a separate matter, a U.S. representative, John Moolenaar, has called for the NBA to review its ties with Joe Tsai, following Alibaba's designation by the U.S. government as a "Chinese military company" as reported. The league is also reportedly exploring the possibility of launching a new league in Europe in the fall of 2027, with talks expected to ramp up alongside the FIFA World Cup final according to an ESPN report. This brief also touches on intriguing sophomore players from the 2025 NBA draft class, including Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant of the Spurs as they enter their second year.