NBA stars face suspensions, legal issues, and viewership hits as Doncic, Bridges, and Rozier make headlines; league explores expansion and fights tanking.
Phoenix Suns player Dillon Brooks was arrested early Friday morning in Scottsdale after a traffic stop. He was released shortly after, amid ongoing investigations. Brooks is currently recovering from a hand injury and has not played since February 21. The Suns issued a brief statement, and further details are pending.
The NBA has rescinded technical fouls given to Luka Doncic and Goga Bitadze after a verbal altercation during a game between the Mavericks and Magic. This decision allows Doncic to avoid a suspension, as he remains below the 16-foul threshold. The incident involved a heated exchange in the third quarter, which was reviewed and overturned by league officials.
The NBA Board of Governors has approved the exploration of adding teams in Las Vegas and Seattle, with potential start in 2028-29. The move aims to tap into these markets' support, with bids expected to reach $7-10 billion per team. The decision follows years of speculation and regional demand.
The NBA is planning significant changes to its draft lottery system to address ongoing tanking issues. League officials, including commissioner Adam Silver, are working on reforms following recent blatant tanking behaviors, with a vote expected in May. The league also discusses expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle.
Las Vegas is set to host the Super Bowl in 2029, following a league vote, and continues to grow as a major sports hub with plans for NBA expansion. Wagering on college basketball tournaments also remains high, with Nevada bets reaching $466 million last year.
Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards was ruled out of Thursday's game due to a knee injury and illness, making him ineligible for postseason awards. With six games remaining, he has played 59 of the required 65 games, impacting his All-NBA prospects and team standings.
The case against former NBA players has intensified as Jones has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, with prosecutors signaling further pleas and a superseding indictment in the multi-defendant gambling operation tied to sports betting and rigged poker games.