NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: August 20, 2026, 5:10 PM ET

France Names Wembanyama Captain

The French national team announced Victor Wembanyama as its captain Wednesday in preparation for the FIBA World Cup European qualifiers, cementing his leadership role on the international stage. Wemby's ascension to captaincy signals France's confidence in the young star as they push for Olympic qualification. The 21-year-old Spurs phenom averaged 21.4 points and 10.5 rebounds in his rookie season, earning All-NBA Third Team honors.

Westbrook Announces Retirement

Nine-time All-Star Russell Westbrook announced his retirement Wednesday after 18 NBA seasons, closing out one of the most electrifying careers in league history. A former MVP and champion with the Lakers in 2020, Westbrook finished with career averages of 24.6 points. 4 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game. His explosive playing style and relentless motor made him a fan favorite across his stops in OKC, Houston, Washington, and Los Angeles.

Kings Assistant Trainer Files Pregnancy Discrimination Lawsuit

A former Sacramento Kings assistant athletic trainer has filed a civil lawsuit against the organization and its senior director of athlete health, alleging pregnancy discrimination and sexual harassment. The suit details claims that the trainer was subjected to hostile work conditions and adverse employment actions after announcing her pregnancy. The Kings organization has not yet publicly commented on the allegations.

NBA Draft Watch: 2027 and 2028 Prospects

After a summer of scouting, draft analyst Jeremy Woo has identified the early 2027 and 2028 prospects to follow heading into the next two draft cycles. The draft classes are shaping up to be particularly deep, with several consensus top picks already emerging from the high school and college ranks. Teams are beginning to project their needs and timeline for the upcoming drafts.

Multi-Team Trade Shakes Up Watson, Strus

A five-team trade sent Peyton Watson to the Cavaliers and Max Strus to the Clippers, with Watson set to sign a new four-year, $88 million deal. The deal reshapes the wing rotations in Cleveland and Los Angeles, with Strus bringing his sharpshooting to the Clips' outback. The Nuggets also benefited, clearing salary and acquiring assets in the complex transaction.

Harden Re-Signs With Cavaliers

James Harden has agreed to a new three-year, $97 million contract to remain with the Cavaliers, his agency Equity Sports confirmed Thursday. The 35-year-old guard averaged 18.9 points and 8.1 assists in his first season with Cleveland, helping lead the team to the playoffs. The re-signing keeps the core of Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen intact for another championship push.

Lakers Owner Maintains Stake

Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, one of the Lakers' minority owners, will not sell his 4% stake in the team, his attorney told ESPN. The decision provides stability to the Lakers' ownership structure as they continue building around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Soon-Shiong has been a key figure in the franchise's recent success and business operations.

Suns Unveil Massive Exterior Display

The Suns are installing an LED display on the exterior of the Mortgage Matchup Center that will measure 226 feet wide by 41 feet tall, making it the NBA's largest exterior video display. The installation is part of the venue upgrades ahead of the 2027 NBA All-Star Game. The massive screen will be visible from downtown Phoenix and serve as a new landmark for the franchise.

Thunder, Timberwolves Look Ahead

The Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves both enter the 2026-27 season with high expectations after strong offseasons. While the Thunder face questions about depth after key departures, the Wolves are integrating their new backcourt of Anthony Edwards and Lonzo Ball. Both teams are viewed as legitimate contenders in the loaded Western Conference.