NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 19, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Free Agency Frenzy and Player Moves

LeBron James, keeping his future plans under wraps despite multiple public appearances. While James offered no definitive answers, Pat Riley and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Miami Heat expressed their desire for him to return to South Beach, with Antetokounmpo stating he's "excited" and willing to do "whatever it takes" to win a title there. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks for restricted free agent Moussa Cisse, securing the big man on a two-year, $4.7 million deal. The Minnesota Timberwolves believe star point guard LaMelo Ball will elevate their team after acquiring him, with team president Tim Connelly emphasizing his potential impact.

Rookie Outlook and League Investigations

As the NBA draft class approaches, analyst Zach Kram, highlighting top prospects like Boozer and Dybantsa. Betting markets are also taking shape, with Andre Snellings regarding the upcoming Rookie of the Year race for the 2026-27 season. On the administrative front, the league is investigating a four-year, $64 million deal between Gary Trent Jr. and the Milwaukee Bucks for potential salary cap circumvention. In other disciplinary news, the NBA for an altercation with former teammate Tyler Herro at a Las Vegas gym, a league spokesperson confirmed.

International Expansion and Business

The NBA is set to ramp up international talks alongside the FIFA World Cup final, as plans for a new European league in the fall of 2027 continue to develop. Separately, a U.S. representative, John Moolenaar, has called for the NBA to review its ties to Joe Tsai, following Alibaba's designation as a "Chinese military company." The Washington Wizards, meanwhile to improve, hoping their star trio can lift them from last place in the Eastern Conference to a competitive standing.