NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 16, 2026, 5:30 PM ET
Ownership & League Expansion
Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia is pursuing a crucial buyout of minority stakeholders, heading toward confidential binding mediation that could see his ownership stake climb to 96% by acquiring the outstanding 13% of the franchise. This internal ownership consolidation occurs as league expansion rumors intensify, with reports suggesting the NBA is nearing a decision on adding new franchises in Seattle and Las Vegas, which would necessitate complex logistical planning, including the structure of a potential expansion draft. Meanwhile, off-court NBA figures garnered attention at the Oscars, where Golden State coach Steve Kerr served as an executive producer on the winning documentary short "All the Empty Rooms," focusing on mass shooting victims' families.
Player Health & Roster Moves
The Milwaukee Bucks suffered a scare when MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo exited their victory over the Pacers after sustaining an awkward landing while completing a dunk, raising immediate concerns over his availability for the critical late-season push. Injury worries also plague the Golden State Warriors, who confirmed that both Seth Curry and Al Horford will miss at least one week due to mild left groin and calf strains, respectively, complicating their playoff positioning. Conversely, the Lakers received a major boost as guard Marcus Smart is fueling their improved standing in the Western Conference following an incredible recovery from a self-inflicted hand injury that required extensive rehabilitation.
Fantasy Outlook & Off-Court Collectibles
As teams navigate injuries, fantasy basketball managers are advised to target available assets, with the Utah Jazz and Portland Trail Blazers specifically identified as teams holding valuable players who warrant waiver-wire pickups for the upcoming week. In related league news, the value placed on NBA legends was evident off the court when businessman Kevin O'Leary displayed a card at the Academy Awards featuring game-used logo patches from Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. Furthermore, a positive return from injury was logged by Max Strus, who netted 24 points for the Cavaliers against the Mavericks; his performance included 16 points in the first half, making him the first player since the 1997-98 season to score that many in the opening frame of a season debut after missing significant time due to injury.