Latest Basketball News
Victor Wembanyama probable to return for NBA Cup semifinal vs. Thunder
San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has been listed as probable to play in Saturday’s NBA Cup semifinal against the Oklahoma City Thunder after returning to full practice following a left calf strain; final clearance will come after a Friday practice session. The Spurs have gone 9-3 without him this season while Wembanyama is averaging career highs in points (26.2), rebounds (12.9) and assists (4.0)
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Thunder arrive in NBA Cup semis with historic 24-1 start
The Oklahoma City Thunder enter the NBA Cup semifinal hot after a 24-1 start to the season and an extended winning streak, making them one of the league’s best teams through 25 games. Their high level of play sets up a marquee semifinal matchup in Las Vegas against a Spurs team expected to get Wembanyama back
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NBA trade market intel: changing valuation of superstars
League insiders say the new economic landscape and CBA-era penalties have altered how teams trade for superstars, making front offices more cautious about overpaying for past performance. Executives cite examples like recent blockbuster moves reshaping title contention and warn teams must be precise when pursuing transformative trades
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All-Star voting season nears; international stars in contention
With All-Star voting expected to begin in late December, players like Jamal Murray are making strong cases for selection based on high scoring and efficiency this season. Media coverage highlights several international candidates and sleepers competing for roster spots as coaches and fans prepare to vote
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NBA Cup semifinal schedule fuels Las Vegas showcase
The NBA Cup semifinals will feature Spurs vs. Thunder and Magic vs. Knicks in Las Vegas, creating a midseason showcase that could influence team momentum and player availability ahead of the February trade deadline. The Cup’s stakes are increasing as teams pursue early-season hardware and national exposure
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Spurs cautious management of Wembanyama’s calf injury
San Antonio has taken a conservative approach to Wembanyama’s left calf strain, monitoring five-on-five practices before listing him probable; the team emphasized final clearance after practice. Media reports note Wembanyama has already missed 12 games this season, which has implications for award eligibility and load management decisions
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NBA regular-season narratives: depth and cap penalties reshape team-building
Executives and analysts note that luxury-tax and second-apron penalties are forcing teams to balance star acquisitions with sustainable depth, altering roster construction across the league. Teams that previously built around aging superstars are being used as cautionary examples in offseason decision-making
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Key game previews and broadcasts for Dec. 13 matchups
Major matchups including Golden State vs. Minnesota and Lakers vs. Wizards are featured in tonight’s national broadcasts with highlight packages and live coverage widely available. These games will be monitored for injury updates, lineup changes, and implications for conference standings
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Player performance tracking: Jamal Murray’s All-Star push
Jamal Murray’s strong efficiency — near 50/45/90 shooting splits with around 25 points per game — is generating discussion about his chances to make the All-Star roster this winter. Analysts expect coach-selected reserve spots to factor into international and position balances when rosters are finalized
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Media note: wide coverage and differing injury takes on Wembanyama
Multiple outlets reported on Wembanyama’s probable return and emphasized different angles — ESPN focused on medical clearance and team context, while international outlets highlighted the impact on the Cup matchup and award eligibility. The variety of reporting underscores the story’s global interest and immediate game implications
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