NBA Basketball 8 Hours

Last updated: September 24, 2026, 2:10 PM ET

NBA Rank Top 10

The final installment of ESPN’s NBA Rank countdown is here, with the top 10 revealing a tight race between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, and Victor Wembanyama for the No. 1 spot. Earlier in the countdown, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant were checked in among the Nos. 50-11 tier. An analytical audit by Dean Oliver examines what the panel got right, particularly around Jaylen Brown and Jalen Brunson.

Roster & Front Office Moves

The Hawks have shipped Buddy Hield, Ryan Nembhard, and cash to the Hornets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith. The Raptors and Kawhi Leonard have agreed to a two-year, $115 million extension. The Clippers have named general manager Trent Redden as their interim president of basketball operations.

Injury & Contract Updates

Mavericks center Dereck Lively II has not been cleared for training camp due to a foot injury, and his status for the start of the season remains undetermined. Stephen Curry says his unsettled contract extension will create “no drama” for him or the Warriors.

Team Outlooks & Fantasy

The Rockets, with a healthy Fred Van Vleet and Steven Adams, hope to blow past their previous plateau and make “some real noise.” In fantasy basketball, a 10-team points league mock draft saw Cooper Flagg taken early, while a separate analysis identifies sleepers, breakouts, and busts for the 2026-27 season.

Culture & Tributes

Longtime Lakers public-address announcer Lawrence Tanter, who manned the microphone since the “Showtime” era, has died at age. In a cultural tie-in, fans are celebrating the 23rd anniversary of “One Tree Hill,” with cast members reflecting on the show’s basketball roots.