NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: August 8, 2026, 6:16 AM ET

Tragedy and Legal News

Brandon Clarke, a Memphis Grizzlies forward, died from the effects of heroin and cocaine, the Los Angeles County medical examiner announced Friday. A misdemeanor gun charge against Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden was dismissed by a Texas judge. Lakers star Luka Doncic's ex-fiancée Anamaria Goltes withdrew her petition for child support and attorney fees. Federal prosecutors alleged a key defendant in the NBA gambling case attempted witness tampering by posting a rat emoji on Instagram.

Free Agency and Roster Moves

Jalen Duren, James Harden and seven other players remain unsigned as the 2026-27 season draws closer, per ESPN's analysis of the biggest remaining free agents. Three-time dunk champion Mac McClung signed with Basquet Girona, a Spanish team owned by Marc Gasol. The Suns extended Dillon Brooks on a three-year, $73 million contract through the 2029-30 season, his agent told ESPN. Lonnie Walker IV agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million deal with the Denver Nuggets. Former NBA guard Monta Ellis, who played 13 seasons without college basketball, was named general manager at Alcorn State.

Team Updates and Trades

Jaylen Brown called his trade to the Philadelphia 76ers a "crazy transition" and expressed disappointment with the Celtics' communication, but his focus is now on winning and fitting in. Sixers president Mike Gansey said Joel Embiid is healthy and "extra motivated" with LeBron James and Jaylen Brown on his side. The Kings drafted Darius Acuff Jr. and must accelerate his growth while managing veterans Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine, a key part of their rebuild.

Contract Talks and Scheduling

Anthony Davis and the Wizards, along with agent Rich Paul, tabled extension talks until after the season starts, sources told ESPN. The NBA's 2026-27 schedule features Knicks-76ers matchups as the East's new heavyweight showdown, league insiders say.

Player Development and Facilities

Victor Wembanyama will host eight to ten San Antonio Spurs teammates for workouts in France this week as the team looks to rebound from its NBA Finals loss. The NBPA opened the PLYRS UNTD Performance Center in Los Angeles, offering a one-stop shop for players to scrimmage, workout and recover.

Business and Off-Court Stories

Kawhi Leonard allegedly had an undisclosed sponsorship deal worth millions with Daktronics, the company that designed the Clippers' videoboard, per Pablo Torre's podcast. The Mavericks are offering season tickets for 32 years and a signed jersey for the Cooper Flagg card, a 1-of-1 debut patch autograph. Tyrese Haliburton and Jade Jones celebrated their wedding with a 50 Cent performance, dancing to "I Get Money." LeBron James shot down Jaylen Brown's extreme skydiving idea if the Sixers win a title, replying "Boy ... naw." Donovan Mitchell and Coco Jones' wedding inspired Brown's desire for his next relationship.