Former Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban argued on social media that the NBA should accept tanking as a strategy, prioritizing fan experiences and affordability over competitive integrity. His comments followed NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's pledge to address what he sees as worsening tanking during the 2025-26 season. Cuban admitted to using the tactic with the Mavericks to secure talent like Luka Dončić.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver admitted during a press conference that the league's efforts to curb tanking are failing, amid fines issued to teams like the Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers. Speaking at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, ahead of the All-Star Game, Silver highlighted misaligned incentives in the draft system and called for fresh thinking. He noted that tanking behavior appears worse this season than in recent memory.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver stated during his All-Star media availability that the league is exploring every possible remedy to curb tanking, following recent fines against the Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers. The Jazz were fined $500,000 for conduct detrimental to the league after benching healthy starters in a winnable game, while the Pacers received a $100,000 penalty for violating the player participation policy by holding out healthy players. Silver emphasized that such overt behavior undermines the foundation of NBA competition.
The NBA Players Association accused the Milwaukee Bucks of tanking on Tuesday by trying to shut down Giannis Antetokounmpo for the rest of the season. Antetokounmpo, sidelined since March 15 with a hyperextended knee and bone bruise, wants to return despite the team's position in the standings. The Bucks have played just 36 games with their star this season amid multiple injuries.
Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia has committed $4 million in prizes to boost the NBA's dunk and 3-point contests during the 2027 All-Star Weekend in Phoenix. The pledge, discussed on ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show, aims to draw top players by offering $1 million to each winner plus a matching donation to their chosen charity. Ishbia expressed confidence that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver would back the initiative amid criticism of recent events' lack of star power.
The NBA has launched an investigation into the Oklahoma City Thunder for having 10 players sidelined due to injuries during their nationally televised game against the San Antonio Spurs on February 4, 2026. The Thunder, who lost 116-108, dressed only eight players for the matchup, raising questions under the league's player participation policy. Despite the scrutiny, sources suggest the absences stem from legitimate injuries rather than rest management.
Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob faces criticism for influencing draft decisions and team strategy in ways that may undermine Stephen Curry's remaining prime years. Fans and former players argue that Lacob's desire for a post-Curry sequel is wasting the superstar's championship potential. The opinion piece highlights specific draft choices and past contract considerations as evidence of Lacob's ego-driven approach.