NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Summer League Buzz and Rookie Watch

The NBA summer league is providing an early look at potential future stars, with No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa in his debut. Dybantsa posted 23 points and seven rebounds in a 104-85 victory for the Washington Wizards, who for the remainder of the summer league after his impressive showing. Other rookies are also, showcasing skills that have them. However, not all summer league outings are positive, as Jazz guard Trey Alexander was taken off the court on a stretcher after an apparent injury during a game against the Bulls.

Team Movements and Offseason Moves

Several teams are and coaching staffs for the upcoming season. The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to a one-year deal with free agent forward Ziaire Williams for $3 million. Walker Kessler, recently acquired by the Lakers to the team, vowing to "run through a brick wall" for them. In coaching news, the Golden State Warriors are expected to hire longtime coach Frank Vogel as an associate head coach under Steve Kerr. Meanwhile, veteran center Jonas Valanciunas has departed the NBA to sign a two-year contract with Lithuanian club Zalgiris Kaunas.

Player News and League Developments

Player news continues to surface as teams prepare for the new season. Hawks forward Mouhamed Gueye underwent surgery for a fractured left foot and is expected to miss the start of the season, with his status to be updated in three to four months. Bucks guard Tyler Herro stated he wants to "" with former teammate Bam Adebayo and is focusing on his future in Milwaukee. In a significant development for USA Basketball, the Thunder's Mark Daigneault, the Pistons' JB Bickerstaff, and Gonzaga's Mark Few are tabbed as assistant coaches for the men's national team. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged that the investigation into Kawhi Leonard for alleged cap circumvention must conclude before the start of the next season. The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly actively pursuing LeBron James, with stars Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown having communicated with James, and Maxey leading the charge.

Franchise Futures and International Aspirations

the NBA is intensifying talks for a potential European league launch around the fall of 2027. The Chicago Bulls are hoping to usher in a new era after hiring a new front office and coach, with hopes of avoiding a repeat of past mediocrity. Timberwolves president Tim Connelly is optimistic about the acquisition of star point guard LaMelo Ball, believing he can "" at a steep price. Lakers guard Austin Reaves, fresh off signing a lucrative contract, is positive about the team's "". The ESPN NBA rankings also highlight intriguing sophomore players like Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant of the Spurs, evaluating their potential for year two and beyond as part of the 2025 draft class.