Top NBA News

March 7, 2025

1. Knicks Owner James Dolan Pushes for Clearer NBA Financial Accounting

New York Knicks owner James Dolan has intensified his push for financial transparency within the NBA, calling for a resolution to be voted on at this month's Board of Governors meeting. In a letter co-signed by Madison Square Garden COO Jamaal Lesane, Dolan detailed concerns over the league’s rising costs, particularly an 8% increase in operating expenses and the addition of more than 800 employees at the league office. Dolan’s proposal calls for a zero-based budgeting approach, requiring detailed financial disclosures across all league operations, including the WNBA, G League, and Basketball Africa League. He also wants transparency on costs tied to the NBA’s upcoming national media deals and any future expansion into Europe. Dolan has been openly critical of the league’s financial decisions in recent years, having resigned from key committees and voiced concerns about the NBA’s shift toward a centralized media model that he argues weakens local franchises. His latest demand for financial accountability comes as MSG Networks, the broadcaster for Knicks and Rangers games, faces potential bankruptcy concerns.

2. Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant’s Rookie Jerseys Expected to Fetch Millions at Auction

The rookie jerseys worn by Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant during their first NBA games are set to go up for auction at Sotheby’s on March 21. These historic pieces are expected to fetch up to $10 million each, reflecting their immense value in the world of sports memorabilia. Sotheby’s will display the jerseys publicly in New York before the auction, giving fans and collectors a rare opportunity to view these iconic pieces of basketball history. With strong demand for game-worn jerseys from NBA legends, these sales could set new records in the auction market.

3. Charles Barkley Blasts ESPN and Kendrick Perkins Over NBA Coverage and Jordan vs. LeBron Debate

During Thursday night’s broadcast of Inside the NBA, Charles Barkley took aim at ESPN and Kendrick Perkins, criticizing the network’s NBA coverage and its constant focus on the LeBron James versus Michael Jordan debate. Barkley, who will be working for ESPN next season when Inside the NBA moves to ABC and ESPN, lambasted the network for its obsession with the Lakers and Warriors, arguing that teams like the Cavaliers and Thunder are being unfairly overlooked. His rant was sparked by Kendrick Perkins’ comment that the Lakers "saved the NBA" after acquiring Luka Dončić and riding a seven-game win streak. Barkley dismissed the Jordan vs. LeBron debate as a topic only discussed by those with nothing better to talk about. His comments quickly went viral, eliciting responses from Perkins and Stephen A. Smith, who defended ESPN’s approach.

4. Raptors’ Jonathan Mogbo Out One Week with Nasal Fracture, Will Wear Facemask for Rest of Season

The Toronto Raptors announced that forward Jonathan Mogbo will be sidelined for at least a week after suffering a nasal fracture during Tuesday’s 114-113 win over the Orlando Magic. Mogbo initially suffered what was thought to be a face contusion, but the injury was later confirmed as a fracture, and he will now have to wear a facemask for the remainder of the season. The rookie has been a valuable contributor for the team, averaging 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists over 49 games this season. His absence adds to the team's growing injury report, which already includes Gradey Dick (knee), Ochai Agbaji (ankle), and Brandon Ingram (ankle), with Ingram still awaiting a return timeline after a sprained ankle. The Raptors will face the Utah Jazz on Friday.

5. Jalen Brunson Exits Knicks’ OT Loss to Lakers with Ankle Injury

In the dying minutes of overtime against the Los Angeles Lakers, Jalen Brunson rolled his ankle while driving to the basket. Brunson's right foot twisted awkwardly after landing on Austin Reaves’ foot, causing him significant pain. Although he managed to sink two free throws before leaving the game, he did not return. NBA insider Chris Haynes expressed optimism that Brunson may have only suffered a sprained ankle, though his availability for upcoming games remains uncertain. Brunson has been a key player for the Knicks this season, averaging 26.1 points and 7.4 assists in 60 games. The Knicks, currently holding a 40-22 record and sitting third in the Eastern Conference, now face further challenges as they continue their West Coast road trip.