NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: August 14, 2026, 11:43 AM ET

NBA Ownership Shake-Up

The Los Angeles Lakers have been sold to businessmen Josh Kushner and Bob Iger for a record-breaking $12.5 billion, a deal that has sent ripples through the league. ESPN spoke with over a dozen NBA sources to understand the reasons behind the sale and its potential implications. This significant transaction marks a new chapter for one of the league's most storied franchises.

Player Departures and Future Outlooks

Veteran guard Russell Westbrook has officially announced his retirement from the NBA after an illustrious 18-season career. Westbrook played for seven different teams during his tenure, leaving behind a legacy defined by his relentless energy and prolific triple-double numbers. Meanwhile, Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy expressed confidence that Stephen Curry will finish his career with the franchise, despite his current contract status.

Upcoming Season Previews and Team Dynamics

The NBA Cup is set to kick off on October 30th with a slate of exciting matchups, including a rematch between the Knicks and the 76ers, and the Lakers facing off against the Warriors. to the 2026-27 season, the Dallas Mavericks are exploring the impact of front office and coaching changes under the leadership of players like Flagg. The New Orleans Pelicans are also undergoing a quiet summer, with questions surrounding whether this approach will yield positive results. The Houston Rockets are aiming to contend in the Western Conference with the additions of players like Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson. The San Antonio Spurs are focused on further developing Victor Wembanyama and the team's core for a potential title run.

International Interest and Legal Matters

There is significant international interest in NBA talent, with the owner of Panathinaikos Basketball Club in Athens, Greece, reportedly making a "serious" offer for Nikola Jokic, with hopes of signing him in 2027. In other news, free agent forward Ben Simmons is expected to fully participate in a player-led minicamp for the Australian men's basketball team in Melbourne. On a legal front, a federal judge in New York revoked the bond of Deniro Laster, a co-defendant in an NBA gambling case and an associate of former Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, due to alleged violations of his release conditions.

Player Tributes and Career Reflections

A vibrant mural celebrating LeBron James has been painted in Philadelphia's Chinatown, titled "The Legendary Partner for the City of Brotherly Love." Doc Rivers, in preparing for his Hall of Fame induction, reflected that his speech will not be solely about himself, but rather a product of a learning process. ESPN NBA insiders are examining Russell Westbrook's polarizing yet impactful Hall of Fame career, particularly his revival of the triple-double.