NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: May 31, 2026, 8:52 AM ET

Draft Lottery Reform & Prospect Rankings

The NBA's new draft lottery system takes effect this offseason with significant changes aimed at reducing tanking incentives, though the numbers suggest top-five selections have produced limited championship success over the past two decades. Meanwhile, Arizona forward Koa Peat will remain in the draft despite being a projected first-round pick, joining a talent pool that ESPN has reshuffled into its top 100 after college withdrawal deadlines reshaped available prospects.

Western Conference Finals Decider

San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama delivered on his childhood dream Saturday night, leading the Spurs to a 111-103 Game 7 victory over the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. The win sends San Antonio to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2017, though Wembanyama faced league warnings earlier in the series for skipping postgame media obligations after Game. Oklahoma City's collapse came despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's struggles and Jalen Williams managing just one point in his return from a hamstring strain during Game.

Eastern Conference Finals & Finals Outlook

The New York Knicks await their Finals opponent after eliminating the Detroit Pistons in six games, capped by a dominant Game 6 performance that validated their aggressive roster construction. However, center Mitchell Robinson will play Game 1 with a brace after surgery on his broken right pinkie finger, adding uncertainty to their championship push. The Knicks enter as slight favorites over whoever emerges from the West, with President Trump planning attendance at Madison Square Garden for an upcoming Finals game.

Coaching Carousel Updates

Orlando is finalizing Sean Sweeney's hiring from San Antonio as their new head coach, while Cleveland confirmed Kenny Atkinson's return despite speculation about his future. Boston's Joe Mazzulla captured Coach of the Year honors after leading the Celtics to the second seed, edging out finalists J.B. Bickerstaff and Mitch Johnson in voting that concluded the league's awards season.

Free Agency & Offseason Outlook

League executives are weighing decisions on restricted free agents including Austin Reaves, Jalen Duren, and Mitchell Robinson, whose playoff performance could influence his market value. The Cleveland Cavaliers made adjustments throughout their playoff run, turning to Alex Caruso, Cason Wallace, and Jared McCain to adapt their rotation, while Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon stood by her criticism of Jalen Brunson's championship ceiling, challenging the Knicks guard to prove her wrong.

Front Office Restructuring

Atlanta promoted Onsi Saleh to president of basketball operations while extending his contract, signaling continuity in their organizational structure. Conversely, the Los Angeles Lakers laid off more than a dozen employees as part of a reorganization under new leadership, reflecting the franchise's shift in direction following their disappointing season.

Player Movement & Personal News

Stephen and Ayesha Curry announced restaurant expansion plans that will bring their culinary ventures to markets where Dell Curry starred during his playing career. On a personal note, Tyrese Maxey and Myra Gordon welcomed daughter Marvel on May 14, providing a lighter moment amid the intense playoff action.