Latest Basketball News

📅January 3, 2026 at 1:00 PM
NBA action heats up with key games like Lakers-Grizzlies and Warriors-Thunder, Giannis clutch play, amid 2026 storylines on trades, expansions, and star futures.
1

Lakers vs Grizzlies Full Game Highlights from January 3, 2026

Luka Doncic delivered a standout triple-double performance, dominating with points, rebounds, and assists in the Lakers' matchup against the Grizzlies. Key plays included Doncic's buckets assisted by Vanderbilt and strong rebounding efforts from players like Aldamo with six boards. The game showcased high production from Doncic in a tight contest.Source 1

2

Warriors vs Thunder Full Game Highlights on January 3, 2026

The defending champion OKC Thunder faced the Golden State Warriors, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge amid strong team net ratings. Highlights featured threes from Curry and SGA, rebounds from Williams (eight total), and defensive plays like a 3-second violation call. OKC surged to the league's top spot over their last 10 games.Source 3

3

Giannis Antetokounmpo Delivers Clutch 30-Point Double-Double

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis came up clutch with a 30-point double-double in a key performance highlighted on January 3. This effort underscores his status as the consensus top player in the East. The Bucks remain focused on building around him ahead of the trade deadline.Source 5

4

Top 2026 NBA Storylines: LeBron James' Future Paths Outlined

League executives predict three paths for LeBron James post-season: staying with Lakers on reduced salary (the 'Dirk option'), or other moves amid ongoing speculation. This follows a dramatic 2025 with Doncic's trade and Thunder's title. Sources emphasize Lakers' contention potential.Source 2

5

NBA Expansion to 32 Teams Predicted for 2026

Commissioner Adam Silver is set to expand the NBA to 32 teams in 2026, with Seattle and Las Vegas as prime candidates after years of discussion. This move aligns with recent comments hedging toward action. Expansion talks have accelerated post-NBA Cup.Source 4

6

Milwaukee Bucks Committed to Antetokounmpo, Eye Roster Improvements

Bucks plan to improve roster around Giannis before February 5 deadline, staying five games behind fourth-seeded Raptors. Executives confirm no in-season trade of the East's top player despite struggles. All eyes on Milwaukee as deadline nears.Source 2

7

Victor Wembanyama and Spurs Rising with Key Contributors

San Antonio's Wembanyama shines alongside leaping sophomore Stephon Castle, rookie Dylan Harper, De'Aaron Fox, and career-best Keldon Johnson. Free agent Luke Kornet bolsters the frontcourt in a strong first half. The young core positions Spurs as contenders.Source 2

8

Dallas Mavericks Build Around Cooper Flagg After GM Departure

Mavs focus on top draft pick Cooper Flagg post-Nico Harrison's exit, who bet on Anthony Davis acquisition. Questions loom over veterans like Davis amid rebuild. Flagg's potential drives wide-ranging roster changes.Source 2

9

NBA Executives Foresee Quiet Trade Deadline Before Busy Summer

League insiders predict a subdued February 5 trade deadline, saving major moves for the 2026 offseason frenzy. This follows a active 2025 with shocks like Doncic's trade. Expect roster tweaks rather than blockbusters now.Source 7

10

Michael Porter Jr. Boosts Trade Value in Stellar Nets Season

Brooklyn's Michael Porter Jr. enjoys a career-best year, significantly raising his trade stock for the Nets. An NBA executive highlights this as a major development amid team improvements. His performance provides key leverage ahead of deadline.Source 8

11

Clippers Face Potential Light Penalty for Salary Cap Circumvention

LA Clippers may receive minor punishment over alleged cap dodge via fraudulent firm Aspiration to pay Kawhi Leonard, per report. Commissioner Silver vowed investigation; no penalty yet after four months. Team's standings fall impacts draft pick owed to Thunder.Source 4

12

Thunder Hold Clippers' Pick After Paul George Trade Legacy

Oklahoma City possesses Clippers' unprotected 2026 first-rounder from 2019 Paul George deal, amid Clippers' dramatic West drop. Reigning champs lead league with strong play. This asset bolsters OKC's future.Source 2