NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: September 25, 2026, 6:21 AM ET

NBA Rank Final Countdown

The NBA's top 100 players list reaches its climax with a tight race among Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Victor Wembanyama for the No. 1 spot, with the evaluation panel weighing various performance metrics and impact factors. NBA Rank top 10

The controversy surrounding the ranking methodology has sparked debate, with Dean Oliver providing an analytical lens on what the panel got right and where metrics may have fallen short in properly evaluating players like Jayson Brunson and Jaylen Brown. NBA Rank audit

Meanwhile, the position of established stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant in the overall rankings reflects their continued influence despite age and changing roles within their respective teams. NBA Rank: Where LeBron, Steph, KD check in

Lakers Offseason Vision

Rob Pelinka outlined the Lakers' strategic direction following LeBron James' departure, emphasizing that the organization has successfully hit its offseason priorities and is building with a post-LeBron mindset focused on sustainable competitiveness. Pelinka touts post-LeBron overhaul

The Lakers' front office expressed gratitude for the LeBron era while confirming that his exit was handled amicably, setting a respectful tone for the franchise's next chapter without the superstar who defined their recent championship run. Pelinka: LeBron's Lakers exit

League Honors and Legacy

The basketball community mourns the passing of Hall of Famer Bob Pettit, NBA's first MVP and a true giant of the game, who died at 93 after a distinguished 11-season career marked by consistent All-Star selection and legendary scoring prowess that helped define the sport's early golden era. Bob Pettit dies at 93

In a touching tribute, longtime Lakers PA announcer Lawrence Tanter passed away at, leaving behind a legacy of iconic voice work that spanned decades from the Showtime era through the modern championship periods of the franchise. Longtime Lakers PA announcer Tanter dies

Player Movements and Contracts

Kawhi Leonard has agreed to a two-year, $115 million extension with the Toronto Raptors, securing the veteran star's future in Toronto and providing stability for a franchise looking to build around their defensive anchor and elite scorer. Raptors, Leonard agree to extension

Extension talks between the Knicks and Karl-Anthony Towns have reached a standstill, creating uncertainty around one of the league's premier young centers and his potential long-term future in New York. Extension talks at standstill

Stephen Curry addressed his contract situation directly, stating that the unsettled extension will not create any drama or affect his play, reaffirming his commitment to the Warriors organization despite ongoing negotiations. Curry: No drama over contract

Front Office Changes

The LA Clippers have named Trent Redden as interim president of basketball operations, marking another significant shift in the franchise's leadership structure as they navigate the post-Kawhi Leonard era with a focus on building through the draft and developing young talent. Clippers name Redden interim president

Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti expressed confidence that his team will not experience a downturn despite significant offseason departures, emphasizing that the core remains strong and the franchise is well-positioned to compete at the highest level. Presti: Not expecting downturn

Rockets Building Momentum

The Houston Rockets are hoping to break past their recent plateau with the return of John Van Vleet and Adams, aiming to make "some real noise" this season after a promising trajectory that suggested they were on the cusp of contention. Rockets hope to blow past plateau

In a key roster move, the Hawks traded Buddy Hield, Ryan Nembhard, and cash considerations to the Hornets in exchange for Finney-Smith, reshaping their backcourt dynamics heading into training camp. Hawks trade Hield, Nembhard

Roster Updates and Training Camps

Dereck Lively II's status for the start of the Mavericks' season remains uncertain as he has not yet been cleared for contact drills following his foot injury, potentially affecting Dallas' defensive rotation depth. Mavs' Lively not cleared

Fantasy Basketball Focus

Cooper Flagg's draft position was a major talking point in the 10-team points league mock draft, with fantasy managers scrambling to secure the highly-touted prospect who could reshape multiple fantasy rosters for the 2026-27 season. 10-team mock draft

For fantasy basketball enthusiasts planning for the upcoming season, sleepers, breakouts, and potential busts for 2026-27 offer valuable insights into which players could exceed expectations and provide value in draft selections. Sleepers, breakouts and busts