The year 2025 solidified itself as a turning point in the NBA, with surprising moves, new champions, and strategic decisions that transformed the landscape of professional basketball.
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Stellar Transfers and Drastic Changes
The transfer of Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers, in exchange for Anthony Davis, shook the foundations of the league. The news, which was announced on February 2, surprised fans and analysts. The pressure from the fans led to the dismissal of the Mavericks’ general manager, Nico Harrison, identified as responsible for the transaction. Despite this, Dallas won the draft lottery, selecting Cooper Flagg.The Rise of a New Dynasty
The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, were crowned champions, with Gilgeous-Alexander being named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the regular season and Finals. The team, built primarily through the draft, managed to consolidate a young core, defying the league’s financial rules. After the championship, Oklahoma started the following season with an impressive start, matching the best start in NBA history.Knicks Break the Drought
In the East, the New York Knicks starred in a great moment. After the change of coach, the franchise bet on Mike Brown, a decision that quickly gave results. In December, the Knicks were crowned NBA Cup champions, ending a 52-year title drought.NBA Cup and International Expansion
The NBA Cup, considered a success, announced adjustments to its format for 2026. The semi-finals and quarter-finals will be played on the courts of the best-ranked teams, while the final will maintain a neutral venue. At the international level, the NBA announced negotiations with FIBA to create a new league in Europe, an ambitious project that could change continental basketball.We believe that now is the time
Adam Silver
