2025: A Year of Radical Changes in the NBA
The NBA landscape underwent a significant transformation in 2025, with unexpected moves and the emergence of new contenders. Luka Doncic’s trade, the dominance of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and the ambition to expand in Europe marked a year full of surprises.Doncic’s Shocking Transfer to the Lakers
The news shook the basketball world: Luka Doncic, star of the Dallas Mavericks, was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. The move, which took many by surprise, generated disbelief and debate about the decisions of the Mavericks’ management.
This transfer led to the dismissal of the Mavericks’ general manager, Nico Harrison, identified as the person responsible for an operation that was not favored by the fans.
Despite Doncic’s departure, the Mavericks secured the first pick in the draft, choosing Cooper Flagg, a young player with great potential.The Thunder: A New Dynasty on the Rise
The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, were crowned NBA champions, proving that youth and building through the draft can challenge the established norms in the league. The team has managed to keep its key players, laying the groundwork for a long-term project.
In recent years, the NBA has seen several teams lift the champion’s trophy, demonstrating the league’s competitiveness and the difficulty of establishing a lasting dynasty.
The Thunder’s success continued into the following season, with a blistering start that matched the best start in Golden State Warriors history.The Knicks and the NBA Cup
The New York Knicks, after a season of ups and downs, decided to fire their coach, Tom Thibodeau, and hire Mike Brown. This change proved to be successful, as the Knicks won the NBA Cup, ending a title drought that lasted more than five decades.The Future of the NBA Cup
The NBA Cup, which has proven to be a success, will undergo some changes in its format. Starting in 2026, the semifinals will be played on the courts of the best-ranked teams, while the final will maintain its neutral venue, although changing it from Las Vegas to another stage is being considered.The European Expansion of the NBA
The NBA and FIBA announced negotiations to create a new league in Europe, an ambitious project that could change the landscape of international basketball. Although there are still many details to be defined, the interest of both organizations is evident.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his enthusiasm for this project, which could mark a before and after in the history of basketball.Million-Dollar Sales and Market Movements
2025 was also a year of major financial transactions in the NBA, with the sale of the Portland Trail Blazers for more than $4 billion. The Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics also changed hands for record figures, demonstrating the growing value of NBA franchises.
Furthermore, the player market shifted with Kevin Durant’s arrival at the Houston Rockets and Jimmy Butler’s arrival at the Golden State Warriors.
The year was also marked by off-court controversies, with the arrest of Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups.
