Latest Basketball News
USA Stars Win 2026 NBA All-Star Championship
Anthony Edwards and Tyrese Maxey combined for 17 points in the title game, leading USA Stars to a dominant 47-21 victory over USA Stripes in the final of the round-robin tournament. The new format featured four 12-minute games, reviving competition in the event.
Edwards was named MVP for his energetic performance.
Anthony Edwards Earns All-Star MVP
Anthony Edwards set the pace with high energy and leadership, securing MVP honors in the competitive USA vs. World format. He contributed key plays, including layups and hustle, helping USA Stars advance and win.
Edwards noted the intensity brought real competition back to All-Star Weekend.
Kawhi Leonard's 31 Points Power Stripes to Final
Kawhi Leonard scored 31 points, including 11 straight to take the lead, as USA Stripes advanced to the championship by eliminating the World team. He shot 7-of-7 overall and 5-of-5 from three in a standout performance.
Leonard's effort highlighted veteran prowess in the tournament.
Victor Wembanyama Delivers Intense All-Star Effort
Victor Wembanyama scored 19 points for the World team, showing visible frustration and commitment despite their elimination by USA Stripes. He won the tip and scored first, carrying the torch for international stars.
His play positioned him as a potential future face of the NBA.
Damian Lillard Wins Third 3-Point Contest Crown
Injured Damian Lillard, recovering from a torn Achilles, won the Three-Point Contest for the third time, outlasting Devin Booker and Kon Knueppel. The emotional win in a Trail Blazers jersey inspired fans and peers.
Stephen Curry announced he'll enter next year's contest.
New All-Star Format Hailed as Major Success
The USA vs. World round-robin format revived competition with close games and defensive effort, giving Commissioner Adam Silver positive momentum. It countered criticisms of prior events like the dull Dunk Contest.
Analysts call it a step forward for the league's All-Star Weekend.
NBA Addresses Tanking with Draft Reform Ideas
Commissioner Adam Silver discussed curbing tanking, including heavier fines, losing draft picks, or earlier lottery odds settings. The league explores radical changes like eliminating the draft amid 10 rebuilding teams chasing positions.
Utah Jazz face recent scrutiny for tactics.
Jayson Tatum Nears Return for Celtics Playoff Push
Boston Celtics plan Jayson Tatum's debut around March 1 versus Philadelphia, after trading for Nikola Vucevic and role adjustments. His return aims to bolster a potent ecosystem for the playoffs.
Timeline allows six weeks to reacclimate.
NBA Team Valuations Surge 18% to $5.52 Billion Average
All 30 NBA teams benefit from rising values, with Lakers up due to Mark Walter's purchase and local TV revenue leading for Knicks and Lakers. League revenue grows 12% to $14.3 billion, driven by TV ads and over-the-air games.
Top teams like Warriors hit $10.8 billion.
VJ Edgecombe Shines in Rising Stars Event
Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe scored 10 straight points and clutch free throws to win the Rising Stars final by one. His performance stood out amid other highlights like Lillard's contest win.
It signals rising talent in the league.
Dunk Contest Disappoints Amid All-Star Success
The Slam Dunk Contest lacked big names and creativity, drawing criticism despite the main game's revival. Fans question its future while praising the competitive All-Star format.
Other events like Celebrity Game also fell short.
Spurs Eye West Lead with Thunder Injuries
San Antonio Spurs could challenge Oklahoma City Thunder for the West, as Thunder's Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lack return timetables. OKC may delay returns for playoffs, opening opportunities.
Spurs' rise ties into Wembanyama's momentum.