Latest Basketball News
NBA to Decide on Expansion in 2026
Commissioner Adam Silver stated the league will determine expansion to 32 teams sometime in 2026, focusing on economic impacts and team interest. Las Vegas and Seattle are front-runners, with Silver expressing confidence in Las Vegas's viability despite other sports teams.
Recent team sales like Lakers at $10B have delayed but clarified valuation issues.
Las Vegas and Seattle Lead NBA Expansion Race
Silver confirmed Las Vegas and Seattle as top markets for new franchises, with ongoing discussions involving bankers and interested parties. He emphasized not teasing markets while gauging economics for pro formas.
A national streaming solution for local broadcasts is expected before expansion.
Chris Paul Sent Home by Clippers in Surprise Move
Silver expressed dismay over Chris Paul being sent home by the Clippers, learning via phone like others. The 40-year-old, in his final season, hopes to finish strong elsewhere; Silver won't intervene.
This occurred ahead of Clippers' December 18 game.
Ja Morant Questionable with Ankle Injury
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant is listed questionable for their road game against Minnesota Timberwolves due to a recurring ankle injury. This adds to ongoing injury concerns for the Grizzlies' key player.
Update came ahead of recent matchups.
Bucks Suffer Historic 45-Point Loss to Nets
Milwaukee Bucks lost 127-82 to Brooklyn, matching Nets' worst win margin, amid Giannis Antetokounmpo's calf strain absence. Coach Doc Rivers confident, no wholesale changes planned; team practiced to correct issues.
Bucks host Raptors on December 18.
Doc Rivers Defends Bucks Amid Slow Start
Despite 11-16 record and 2-8 without Antetokounmpo, Rivers dismisses major roster overhauls post-embarrassing loss. Speculation on Giannis's future denied; team has key wins over Celtics, Warriors, Pistons.
Practice time used for fixes.
NBA Trade Market Opens Post-December 15
82 free agents from offseason now trade-eligible after December 15 deadline, sparking new rumor waves. This includes players signed last summer now available for deals.
Timing aligns with expansion and injury news.
Full NBA Slate on December 18
Eight games scheduled: Knicks at Hornets, Clippers at Spurs, Rockets at Pelicans, Pistons at Mavericks, Lakers at Jazz, Kings at Blazers, plus others like Warriors at Suns. Projected lineups available with player statuses.
Fantasy impacts highlighted.
Knicks Celebrate 2025 NBA Cup Victory
Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart marked New York Knicks' NBA Cup win, though no banner planned. Victory over San Antonio in Las Vegas final.
Boosts Knicks' 18-7 record ahead of Hornets game.
Warriors Face Suns in Key Matchup
Golden State Warriors play at Phoenix Suns on December 18, with game preview released. Part of busy slate; Warriors relevant after Bucks' prior win over them.
Lineups and statuses pending.
WNBA CBA Talks Progress, Players Deserve Raises
Silver tracking WNBA negotiations closely, affirming players merit significant pay increases amid league success. Seeks fair compromise; integrated with NBA office efforts.
Separate from expansion timeline.
Expansion Hurdles: Valuations and RSNs
Recent sales (Celtics $6.1B, Lakers $10B, Blazers $4B+) and regional sports network declines delayed decisions. Silver eyes streaming RSN fix before adding teams.
Wide net cast for buyers.