NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: August 13, 2026, 12:26 PM ET

NBA Basketball

Lakers Sale Shakes League

The stunning sale of the Los Angeles Lakers to Kushner and Iger for $12.5 billion sparked an immediate wave of reaction across the league. ESPN spoke to more than a dozen NBA sources who expressed shock and outlined what the record price could mean for future franchise valuations.

Westbrook Retires

Russell Westbrook announced his retirement Wednesday after an 18-season career with seven teams. Analysts examined Westbrook's legacy, noting he revived the triple-double but also sparked polarized opinions about his impact.

Offseason and Previews

The Pelicans had a quiet summer, and our early look at 2026-27 asks whether it will pay off. Meanwhile, the Mavericks enter a new era led by Cooper Flagg after front-office and coaching changes. The Rockets hope Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson can push them into the West's upper tier, while the Spurs look for an encore from Victor Wembanyama. Stephen Curry remains on track to be a Warrior for life, GM Mike Dunleavy said. A Greek team made a "serious" offer to buy out Nikola Jokic for next season. Among still-unsigned free agents, Jalen Duren, James Harden and others remain in flux. Several title contenders face under-the-radar hurdles, including new rosters in the West and Karl-Anthony Towns’ contract. The latest offseason buzz also covers Russell Westbrook and DeMar DeRozan.

Other NBA News

Doc Rivers reflected that his Hall of Fame speech preparation taught him the words aren't about him. A federal judge revoked the bond of Deniro Laster, a co-defendant in the Terry Rozier gambling case, over an Instagram post. Opening day of NBA Cup play on Oct. 30 features Knicks-Sixers and Lakers-Warriors. A Philadelphia artist painted a LeBron James mural in Chinatown inspired by Dwyane Wade's assist. Ben Simmons will join a player-led minicamp for the Australian team with "zero restrictions," a source said.