Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander snubbed from ‘best player’ vote, but not MVP

In a surprising move, the Denver Nuggets have fired head coach Michael Malone just two years after leading the team to an NBA championship. This decision raises eyebrows, especially as the team heads into the playoffs. Malone's departure could signal a shift in the team's strategy and dynamics, leaving fans and analysts questioning the future direction of the franchise.

The 2026 NBA All-Star game is set to feature an exciting new format, transforming into a USA vs. World tournament. This change not only adds a competitive edge to the event but also showcases international talent, making it a must-watch for basketball fans. It highlights the growing global influence of the sport and promises to deliver thrilling matchups that celebrate the best players from around the world.

Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet is facing a tough road ahead as he is likely to miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season due to a torn ACL. This injury, which occurred during a team minicamp in the Bahamas, was first reported by ESPN's Shams Charania. VanVleet is set to undergo immediate surgery this week, highlighting the significant impact this will have on both his career and the Rockets' season. Fans and teammates alike will be watching closely as he begins his recovery process.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been named overwhelming favorites to win the NBA championship again, according to a recent ESPN survey of league executives. This recognition comes after their impressive performance as defending champions, positioning them as potential back-to-back winners, a feat not achieved since the Golden State Warriors. This news is significant as it highlights the Thunder's strong roster and strategic gameplay, making them a team to watch this season.

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II is making waves with his impressive dunking skills and overall game improvement. As he gears up for the season, there's buzz about him potentially adding three-point shots to his repertoire. Lively's journey is relatable and entertaining, especially as he shares a humorous story about his dunking experiences in seventh grade. This not only highlights his growth as a player but also connects with fans who appreciate the lighter side of sports.

The Brooklyn Nets are gearing up for the 2025-26 season with a revamped roster after a busy offseason in the NBA. Following a disappointing last season where they finished with one of the league's worst records, the team is focused on securing a top draft pick next June. This shift in strategy highlights the importance of developing experienced ball-handlers to improve their performance, making this upcoming season crucial for the franchise's future.

As the new NBA season approaches, the focus shifts to the Portland Trail Blazers and the key players who will shape their performance. Understanding who these pivotal figures are is crucial for fans and analysts alike, as their contributions could determine the team's success or struggles in the upcoming games.

LeBron James is gearing up for his 23rd NBA season, but there's growing speculation that this could be his last, particularly with the Los Angeles Lakers. As the oldest player in the league, his potential retirement raises questions among NBA executives about the future of the Lakers. This situation is significant as it not only impacts the team's strategy but also the league's landscape, given James' influence and legacy.

Kevin Harlan, a well-known sports broadcaster, is transitioning to a reduced role in the NBA as he takes on new responsibilities with Amazon. This move is significant as it highlights the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting, where traditional roles are adapting to new platforms. Harlan's experience and voice have been a staple in NBA coverage, and his shift to Amazon could bring fresh perspectives to their sports programming, potentially attracting a new audience.

The Dallas Mavericks are gearing up for an exciting 2025-26 season, especially after their surprising win in the NBA Draft Lottery, which allowed them to select Cooper Flagg as the first overall pick. This move has sparked discussions among NBA executives about Flagg's potential to become the best American player in the next five years. His talent and the Mavericks' strategic decisions could significantly impact the team's future and the league as a whole.

New York Knicks fans are in for an exciting treat as Media Day arrives earlier this year, coinciding with the team's participation in the Abu Dhabi preseason games. This event, akin to a holiday for fans, allows them to engage with players and coaches, setting the stage for the upcoming season. The early Media Day not only builds anticipation but also highlights the Knicks' commitment to global outreach and fan engagement, making it a significant moment for the franchise.

The Brooklyn Nets are set to delight fans by reintroducing their beloved 'Coogi' alternate uniforms for the 2025-26 season. This decision comes after years of requests from the fanbase, showcasing the team's commitment to honoring its supporters. The Coogi uniforms, known for their vibrant colors and unique design, will be featured as the City Edition uniform this season, adding excitement to the upcoming games.

In an exciting ceremony for the Ballon d'Or 2025, Aitana Bonmatí successfully defended her title as the best female player, while England's Sarina Wiegman took home the manager award and goalkeeper Mary Hampton was recognized for her outstanding performance. This event highlights the growing recognition of women's football and the remarkable achievements of players and coaches, especially following England's impressive showing in the Euro 2025 tournament. Such accolades not only celebrate individual talent but also inspire future generations in the sport.

Bruce Pearl's retirement as Auburn's men's basketball coach has sparked controversy as it opens the door for his son, Steven Pearl, to take over the position. Fans are expressing concerns about nepotism, questioning whether Steven's promotion is based on merit or family ties. This situation raises important discussions about fairness and transparency in sports leadership, especially in college athletics where integrity is paramount.

Napoli continues to shine at the top of the Serie A table, maintaining a perfect record after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Pisa. Despite the win, the match revealed some struggles for key players like Billy Gilmour and Leonardo Spinazzola, indicating that while Napoli is performing well, there is still room for improvement. This win is significant as it keeps Napoli ahead in the league, but fans will be eager to see a more polished performance in future matches.

The New York Giants are facing a tough decision regarding quarterback Russell Wilson after a disappointing performance in their recent loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Coach Brian Daboll has not confirmed whether Wilson will start in the upcoming Week 4 game, leading to speculation about a potential benching. This situation is significant as it highlights the challenges the Giants are facing this season and the pressure on Wilson to perform, which could impact the team's future direction.

Joe Dumars, the chief of the Pelicans, is feeling optimistic as the team gears up for training camp. He praised Zion Williamson's impressive work ethic during the offseason and highlighted the healthy returns of Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III. This is significant for the Pelicans, especially after a tough season where they struggled with injuries, including Williamson missing 52 games. With a fresh start, the team hopes to turn things around and build a stronger season ahead.

Ousmane Dembélé has made history by winning the 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or, an award recognizing the best footballer of the year. This prestigious accolade, presented at the Théâtre du Châtel in Paris, marks a significant milestone in Dembélé's career and highlights his exceptional talent and contributions to the sport. His victory not only celebrates his individual achievements but also brings pride to his club, PSG, and his home country, France.