NBA Basketball 3d Briefing
×Last updated: August 17, 2026, 9:48 PM ET
Weddings and Ventures
KAT espn.com tied the knot with Jordyn Woods in a star-studded ceremony in Malibu, with New York Knicks players and celebrity superfans in attendance. Meanwhile, LeBron James espn.com has launched a YouTube channel dedicated to golf, adding another off-the-court venture to his expanding portfolio as the new Philadelphia 76ers star continues to build his brand beyond basketball.
Arena and Ownership Drama
San Antonio's future arena plans hit a roadblock as the city council voted 6-5 to reject a proposed public vote on the city's $489 million contribution for a new Spurs downtown arena. In Los Angeles, the Buss family espn.com has decided to sell its remaining ownership stake in the Lakers, meaning Jeanie Buss will no longer serve as governor of the franchise, marking a significant shift in the storied organization's leadership structure.
Free Agency and Contracts
The New Orleans Pelicans have agreed to a one-year deal with free agent forward Trendon Watford worth $2.9 million, according to sources. Indiana continues to show community solidarity as the Colts and Pacers espn.com each donated $125,000 to flood relief efforts throughout the state, joining the WNBA's Indiana Fever and the G League's Noblesville Boom in supporting the cause.
Player Reactions and Expectations
Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton espn.com expressed shock upon learning his first game back from a torn Achilles tendon would not be nationally televised when the NBA released its regular-season schedule. Speaking from Manila, Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards espn.com confidently stated that his team is prepared to defeat both the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs this season, showcasing his competitive mindset heading into the campaign.
Hall of Fame Recognition
The 2026 Hall of Fame espn.com class celebrated both women's basketball and NBA legends, with Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne leading the way alongside Doc Rivers, Mike D'Antoni, and Amar'e Stoudemire. Despite only having one NBA player selected this year, there are 11 key candidates espn.com currently on the waiting list who could join future classes, including several deserving former stars.
Legal and Team Developments
A judge has dismissed Charles Oakley's espn.com assault case against Madison Square Garden, ruling that the former New York Knicks All-Star produced no evidence to support his claim of being attacked by MSG security guards. The Portland Trail Blazers face uncertainty heading into the 2026-27 season despite Damian Lillard's return, as questions remain about the team's direction amid growing external pressure.
Historical Honors
Kevin Garnett will receive a second jersey retirement espn.com as the Minnesota Timberwolves announced they will raise his No. 21 to the rafters following their game against the Boston Celtics. The discovery of Cooper Flagg's espn.com rookie card by longtime collector Jason Williams has sent ripples through the basketball card community, though the 12-year collecting veteran remains undecided about the card's future.
League Investigation Update
The NBA has reportedly found no evidence showing that Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer funneled money through team sponsors to pay Kawhi Leonard, according to sources familiar with ongoing discussions between the league and the franchise. As teams finalize preparations for the upcoming season, comprehensive team-by-team primers provide early insights into roster strengths, weaknesses, and expectations across the league.