The year 2025 was packed with shocking NBA developments, many of which will continue to unfold into 2026 and beyond, marking a significant turning point in the league’s history. As we ring in the New Year, let’s revisit the 10 biggest NBA stories that shaped 2025.
1. Luka Doncic Trade
On February 1st, what seemed like an unbelievable rumor became reality when Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison convinced new ownership to trade fan-favorite 25-year-old star Luka Doncic to one of the NBA’s most reviled franchises for far less than his value. This move sent shockwaves through the league, costing Harrison his job as Dallas struggled without Doncic and fell into the draft lottery. Fortunately for the Mavericks, they struck gold by selecting Cooper Flagg with the first overall pick—a rarity considering their slim odds. While the Lakers have become a contender again, they’re still figuring out how to build a winning roster around Doncic. This trade is likely to be remembered as one of the biggest stories, ushering in dramatic changes for years to come.
2. Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier Arrested and Charged
Federal investigators charged Miami Heat’s Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups in two separate illegal gambling scandals. Ex-NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones was also implicated. Rozier is accused of collaborating with a gambling ring to manipulate games and rig player prop bets, while Billups allegedly took part in a match-fixing poker game linked to a Hall of Fame figure. Both men deny the charges, but have been suspended without pay while the NBA launches its own investigation. This scandal highlights the ongoing tension between promoting legal gambling and addressing illegal activities within the league.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder Win the NBA Championship
The Thunder captured their first-ever NBA title, signaling the potential rise of a new dynasty. With MVP Shai Gilgas-Alexander leading the charge, alongside Jaylen Williams overcoming a wrist injury and Chet Holmgren stepping up as a key player, Oklahoma City dominated the season. Despite looming salary cap challenges, the team’s wealth of draft picks positions them well for sustained success, defying the league’s efforts to prevent dynasties.
4. Tyrese Haliburton Suffers Achilles Injury in Game 7
The biggest “what if” moment of 2025 occurred when Haliburton ruptured his Achilles early in Game 7 of the NBA Finals. The Indiana Pacers fought valiantly to push the Thunder to a decisive game, but Haliburton’s injury cut short their chances. This setback has left the Pacers struggling heading into the next season, though his recovery story will be closely followed into 2026-27.
5. Jayson Tatum Tears Achilles Tendon
The Celtics, a favorite to contend, faced a major blow when star Jayson Tatum ruptured his Achilles during the Eastern Conference semifinals. This injury derailed Boston’s playoff run and forced a financial reset, including releasing key veterans. Despite this, the Celtics remain a competitive force and are hopeful for Tatum’s return in early 2026.
6. Dallas Wins Lottery and Picks Cooper Flagg
Despite the controversial Luka Doncic trade, Dallas’s gamble paid off when they won the NBA Draft Lottery and selected promising rookie Cooper Flagg. After early adjustments under Jason Kidd, Flagg has emerged as a cornerstone, showcasing impressive scoring, rebounding, and defense. He is on track to become a lasting fan favorite in Dallas.
7. Knicks Reach Eastern Conference Finals
The Madison Square Garden playoffs atmosphere returned with a bang as the Knicks advanced deep into the postseason, reigniting their passionate fan base. Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals was one of the season’s best, marking a thrilling moment for the franchise and its supporters.
Honorable Mentions:
– The NBA undergoes a generational shift as young stars like Victor Wembaneyama and Tyrese Maxey step up.
– Jimmy Butler joins Stephen Curry in Golden State aiming for another championship.
– Ongoing trade rumors swirl around Giannis Antetokounmpo.
– The Clippers part ways with Chris Paul.
– Controversy involving Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers, and an environmental credit company triggers an NBA investigation, though initial reports suggest the fallout might be less severe than feared.
Fan Take:
These stories capture the unpredictable and dramatic nature of the NBA, showing how player movements, injuries, and off-court issues can reshape the league in profound ways. For basketball fans, 2025 was a reminder that the sport is ever-evolving, with new heroes emerging and old narratives being rewritten, keeping the excitement alive for seasons to come.
