Latest Basketball News

📅February 17, 2026 at 1:00 PM
NBA All-Star Weekend concludes with successful new USA vs. World format; Damian Lillard wins Three-Point Contest; league addresses tanking concerns and explores draft system reforms.
1

2026 NBA All-Star Game USA vs. World Format Declared Success

The NBA's new USA vs. World All-Star format was deemed a 'big win for the NBA,' providing Commissioner Adam Silver positive momentum amid recent controversiesSource 2. The format featured multiple competitive games and highlighted the emergence of new stars alongside established players like Stephen Curry and LeBron JamesSource 2.

2

Damian Lillard Wins 2026 Three-Point Contest

Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard, recovering from a torn Achilles injury, captured the Three-Point Contest title at All-Star WeekendSource 2. While praised as an entertaining victory, some viewed it as 'a tough look for the league when its top marksman is recovering from a torn Achilles'Source 2.

3

Victor Wembanyama Carries the Torch at All-Star Weekend

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama delivered a standout performance at the All-Star Game, leading to discussions about him potentially becoming the 'face of the NBA' sooner than expectedSource 2. His 'effort on Sunday' and dominant presence sparked commentary about the next generation of NBA stars taking overSource 2.

4

Keshad Johnson Wins 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest

Keshad Johnson won the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest at the 2026 All-Star WeekendSource 7. The Dunk Contest was previously criticized as 'dull' before the competition took placeSource 2.

5

De'Aaron Fox Hits All-Star Game Buzzer-Beater vs. LeBron James

Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox hit a memorable buzzer-beater during the All-Star Game that he plans to frame as a keepsake from playing alongside one of the NBA's all-time greatsSource 3. The moment represents a career highlight Fox will reflect on for years to comeSource 3.

6

NBA Explores Radical Draft and Lottery System Reforms

The NBA is considering major changes to its draft and lottery system, including potentially eliminating the draft altogether, to address tanking concernsSource 9. Commissioner Adam Silver stated at the All-Star press conference that 'it's time to take a fresh look' at the draft lottery as 'an antiquated way of going about doing it'Source 6.

7

Jazz and Pacers Fined Combined $600,000 for Overt Tanking Behavior

The Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers were recently fined a combined $600,000 for 'overt behavior that prioritizes draft position over winning'Source 6. The NBA has indicated that even more drastic structural changes are being considered to combat tanking practicesSource 6.

8

Joel Embiid's Physical Durability Raises Questions for 76ers Playoff Push

Despite Joel Embiid's impressive play this season, the Philadelphia 76ers' recent personnel decisions suggest concerns about his ability to hold up physically over the next few monthsSource 4. The team's strategy appears focused on 25-year-old Tyrese Maxey's timeline for success in the playoffsSource 4.

9

Jayson Tatum Expected to Return March 1 for Celtics

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum is expected to make his debut on March 1 in a home game against the Philadelphia 76ers, giving him approximately six weeks to get reacclimated before the playoffsSource 4. The Celtics' recent trades and roster adjustments suggest preparation for his eventual return to a 'clearly defined, undeniably potent ecosystem'Source 4.

10

NBA Team Valuations Surge to Record Highs

NBA team valuations have skyrocketed, with three franchises now valued over $10 billion, including the Golden State Warriors ($10.8B), New York Knicks ($10.1B), and Los Angeles Lakers ($10.0B)Source 8. The 2025-26 season shows 12% league-wide revenue growth to $14.3 billion, driven by rising TV rights fees now at $75.9 billion over 11 yearsSource 8.

11

Thunder's Western Conference Dominance Questions Arise Amid Injury Concerns

With both Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sidelined by injuries and lacking return timelines, questions emerge about whether the Oklahoma City Thunder have the Western Conference 'locked up'Source 4. The Thunder's cautious approach to injury recovery could affect their playoff preparation in the season's final stretchSource 4.

12

Golden State Warriors to Face Milwaukee Bucks Today

The Golden State Warriors are scheduled to play the Milwaukee Bucks today, February 17, 2026, as part of the 2026 NBA SeasonSource 1. The game is among multiple NBA matchups continuing as the league moves past All-Star WeekendSource 1.