NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 16, 2026, 11:30 PM ET
Ownership & League Expansion Dynamics
Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia is negotiating to potentially increase his controlling stake from the current level to 96% by buying out minority partners holding a combined 13% interest, with the transfer subject to a confidential binding mediation process. Separately, the league appears to be moving closer to adding two new markets, with reports detailing the potential ripple effects of expansion, including how a future two-team expansion draft might be structured for incoming franchises in Seattle and Las Vegas. Meanwhile, off-court news saw Golden State coach Steve Kerr earn an Oscar as an executive producer for "All the Empty Rooms," a documentary short focusing on the families affected by mass shootings.
Player Recovery & Roster Moves
In recent player news, Lakers guard Marcus Smart detailed his recovery from a severe self-inflicted hand injury, describing the moment he realized the extent of the damage, while his return is reportedly fueling the Los Angeles Lakers' ascent in the Western Conference standings. For fantasy managers looking to bolster their rosters ahead of the next slate of games, analysts are advising pickups from teams like the Utah Jazz & Trail Blazers, identifying specific waiver-wire targets who can immediately fill statistical gaps for contending teams.