NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing

Last updated: October 23, 2026, 4:40 AM ET

Sixers, Thunder and Lakers Headline Opening Night

The Sixers completed a stunning comeback after trailing by 24 at halftime, with Tyrese Maxey scoring a game-high 32 points to help Philadelphia roll past the Cavaliers. Elsewhere, Luka Doncic said the Lakers' "ceiling is even higher" after pairing with Jake LaRavia for a 127-105 win over the Warriors, a result that marked a quiet end to the Warriors-Lakers rivalry that defined a decade of the league, as analysts reflected on the shifting landscape.

MVP Race and Historic Streaks

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's run of 20-point games came to an end Thursday night, as he chose to sit for the fourth quarter of a blowout, prioritizing respect for the opponent over padding a record. The two-time MVP's rise has been traced to a partnership with the Thunder GM built on patience, as detailed in a profile of how OKC's model developed.

Individual Brilliance

Anthony Edwards joined Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan as the only players to post 40 points in a season opener, lifting Minnesota past its rivals. The Timberwolves' new backcourt of LaMelo Ball and Edwards drew excited reactions as the Ant-Melo era opened in Minnesota. Tyrese Haliburton delivered an emotional return from his Achilles tear, helping Indiana edge the Pelicans in a gritty win.

Controversies and Off-Court Matters

LeBron James fired back at President Trump's criticism of his anthem warmups, calling it a "slow news day in office." Eric Earnest pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in the NBA gambling case while denying that Chauncey Billups provided him information. Refs confirmed that LaMelo Ball traveled on a 3-point make, and Kyrie Irving offered to pay Azeez Al-Shaair's fine after he wore Hind Rajab's name on his eye black.

Around the League

Giannis Antetokounmpo said the new-look Heat must trust each other more after an opening-night blowout loss to Minnesota. The Clippers opened their season dedicated to banned owner Steve Ballmer with a win over the Kings. ESPN Analytics also unveiled its NBA Trade Lab, an interactive tool for building and voting on mock trades.

Coming Up

Giannis and the Heat face the next test as they look to bounce back from their opening loss.