This playoff season, the NBA is buzzing with action both on and off the court. News doesn’t just revolve around the 16 teams in contention; we’ve rounded up some recent highlights that might have flown under the radar.
Alijah Arenas Set for Hospital Release
In an uplifting twist, Alijah Arenas, son of NBA superstar Gilbert Arenas, is expected to be discharged from the hospital following a severe car accident that left him in an induced coma. According to ESPN, he has sustained no major injuries, marking a significant victory for his family and fans.
BREAKING: Alijah Arenas is expected to be released from the hospital with no major injuries.
Incredible news (h/t @ClutchPoints) pic.twitter.com/aKK2fbqMRb
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 28, 2025
Khaman Maluach Declares for the Draft
Following the announcements of Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, Duke’s Khaman Maluach is throwing his hat into the ring for the 2025 NBA Draft. Standing tall at 7’2″, this South Sudanese powerhouse is renowned for his defensive prowess and is anticipated to land a spot in the Top 10 come June.
BREAKING: Khaman Maluach has declared for the NBA Draft!
One of my favorite one-and-dones ever pic.twitter.com/Parf6Bizpg
— Blue Devils (@BlueDevils) April 27, 2025
USA vs World All-Star Game on the Horizon?
Following a rather underwhelming All-Star performance this past February, the NBA is contemplating a fresh format for the 2026 All-Star Game featuring a USA vs International showdown. Drawing inspiration from the NHL’s successful format, this concept is gaining traction.
While concrete plans are still brewing, the upcoming All-Star festivities at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles—coincidentally the site for the 2028 Olympic basketball tournament—could push Adam Silver to finally make this long-discussed idea a reality. Discussions have reportedly begun with NBC, the new broadcasting partner, as well as the players’ association.
Team U.S. vs. Team World as an All-Star showcase?
Adam Silver tells @joevardon that the NBA is considering the possibility.https://t.co/ANrwzYcThy pic.twitter.com/YJWXuAYD1z
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 29, 2025
Shaquille O’Neal Takes on New Role at Sacramento State
In a surprising yet heartwarming twist, Shaquille O’Neal has accepted the position of general manager for the Sacramento State men’s basketball team, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. This role aligns perfectly as Shaq’s son, Shaqir O’Neal, currently plays for the Hornets under former NBA star, Mike Bibby. It’s a reunion reminiscent of those intense Kings vs. Lakers matchups from the early 2000s.
Shaquille O’Neal has agreed to become the men’s basketball general manager of Sacramento State, sources tell ESPN. It will be a voluntary role for Shaq, whose son, Shaqir O’Neal, also plays for Sac State under Mike Bibby. Shaq and Bibby form a star duo as college GM and coach. pic.twitter.com/3F2NQBbhf7
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 29, 2025
NBA Admits Error on Luka Doncic Foul Call
Luka Doncic was the subject of a controversial no-call in the recent game between the Wolves and the Lakers, and it seems the NBA has acknowledged the misstep. According to the league’s L2M Report, Doncic was indeed tripped by Jaden McDaniels in the closing moments of the game, validating J.J. Redick’s claims.
The NBA’s L2M Report confirms that Luka Doncic was tripped by Jaden McDaniels with 33 seconds remaining in Game 4 of Lakers-Timberwolves.
LA was trailing Minnesota by 1 point, and if a foul had been called, Doncic would have gone to the free throw line.pic.twitter.com/8ar7OMO6UK
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 28, 2025
Stan Van Gundy and Steve Nash Join Amazon
As the NBA gears up for its new TV deal next season, Amazon has stepped in as the league’s partner, and it looks like they’re making some star-studded additions. Stan Van Gundy, currently a commentator for TNT, will be joining Amazon alongside Ian Eagle. Reports also indicate that Steve Nash is set to make the leap to Amazon as well, according to Marc Stein.
TNT’s Stan Van Gundy has been hired by Amazon Prime Video to be a game analyst for its forthcoming NBA coverage next season, sources tell @AndrewMarchand.
Van Gundy joins Ian Eagle on Prime Video’s game telecasts.
🔗 https://t.co/9lBqAy4K48
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 29, 2025
William covers the sports world with passion and precision — from transfer rumors to game-changing performances. With a sharp eye for trends and a love for bold storytelling, he brings fans closer to the action, one article at a time.
- Paolo Banchero’s $287 million contract includes a clause that changes everything for Orlando - July 10, 2025
- Mike Brown’s $40 million Knicks deal will change how 8 players perform this season - July 10, 2025
- Michigan State legend’s son picks Michigan over his father’s championship team - July 10, 2025
