NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 8, 2026, 4:57 AM ET
Euroleague and League Expansion
The Euro League has rejected espn.com a formal NBA proposal to merge into a planned NBA Europe, opting instead to pursue its own expansion plans. The decision represents a setback for the league's effort to consolidate European basketball under its banner.
Pacers and Injury Returns
Tyrese Haliburton returned espn.com from his Achilles injury, scoring seven points across 16 minutes. Separately, Haliburton bought tickets espn.com for the Iowa State student section to attend a Pacers game at his alma mater.
Frontcourt Setbacks
The 76ers suffered a significant blow when an MRI confirmed espn.com a torn Achilles for backup center Hukporti, thinning an already limited frontcourt. In Charlotte, the Hornets shut down espn.com guard Coby White for the rest of the preseason after a left calf strain sustained during training camp.
League and Franchise News
Broadcaster Mike Breen apologized espn.com Wednesday after LeBron James disputed a story claiming Breen had criticized Joel Embiid. In Portland, new Trail Blazers owner Tom Dundon vowed espn.com to bring a championship to the city in his first message to season-ticket holders. Meanwhile, the five Buss siblings filed espn.com a formal case against Jeanie Buss over the sale of their remaining Lakers shares.
Technology and Projections
The NBA is testing espn.com smart basketballs and wrist wearables for officials during the preseason. ESPN's Basketball Power Index has also released espn.com its 2026-27 projections, ranking all 30 teams and outlining Finals favorites.