NBA Basketball 3h Briefing
×Last updated: March 24, 2026, 4:30 AM ET
NBA MVP Race & Player Returns
Victor Wembanyama has explicitly declared his intention to secure the league's Most Valuable Player award this season, stating his goal is to "leave no debate" regarding his candidacy. This ambitious declaration comes as the Oklahoma City Thunder welcomed back guard Jalen Williams, who returned after missing 26 of the last 28 contests due to a hamstring strain; Williams noted the extended absence allowed his surgically repaired wrist to reach full recovery. The league continues to see star players re-entering the fray while others face setbacks.
Injury Concerns & Season Grinds
The Golden State Warriors suffered a significant scare late in their overtime victory against Dallas when wing Moses Moody was stretchered off the court following a noncontact left knee injury, casting doubt over their late-season push. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers demonstrated strong character despite seeing their nine-game winning streak snapped by the Pistons, as players lauded their internal resiliency after successfully erasing a 16-point second-half deficit in the losing effort.