NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 16, 2026, 3:32 PM ET
NBA Policy & Betting
The NBA is prohibiting certain bets this season, including player prop parlays that sportsbooks will no longer be permitted to offer. Separately, a Las Vegas bettor pleaded guilty to charges tied to NBA and NCAA fixing schemes after being indicted in three federal gambling cases.
Team Updates
The Bucks have moved their home opener to an afternoon tip-off on Oct. 23 to avoid a clash with the World Series. In Philadelphia, Tyrese Maxey said a healthy Joel Embiid changes everything for the Sixers. Warriors center Kristaps Porzingis will remain out indefinitely but will stay with the team while he recovers from a private health matter.
Spurs & Preseason
San Antonio debuted a three-guard lineup of Fox, Harper and Castle in a preseason win under coach Mitch Johnson. An annual survey of NBA general managers projects the Spurs to win the title, with Victor Wembanyama leading the way. Entering the season, the Spurs face a tough road back to the Finals after their surprise run.
Warriors & Jimmy Butler
After a quiet offseason, Jimmy Butler says he let down the Warriors and is working toward a return to the franchise.
Outlook & Analysis
Fantasy analysts held their final mock draft before the season, with Cooper Flagg and Derrick White going early. The panel also named one player they view differently than the consensus. ESPN ranked the teams most desperate to win from 1 to, and offered a betting angle for every club heading into opening night. Finally, Brian Windhorst's latest intel covers Karl-Anthony Towns' next contract, expansion steps, and why rival teams are watching Orlando.