Way-too-early 2026 NBA mock Draft ahead of 2025-26 season

Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans showcased his incredible athleticism with a stunning 360 dunk during a preseason game against the Houston Rockets. This impressive feat not only highlights his skills but also raises excitement for the upcoming NBA season, as fans are eager to see how a slimmer Williamson performs on the court.

In a tense moment during the Cleveland Cavaliers' preseason finale against the Detroit Pistons, De'Andre Hunter narrowly avoided a serious knee injury, much to the relief of fans and teammates. This incident highlights the importance of player safety in the NBA, especially as teams prepare for the regular season. Hunter's performance has been a bright spot in training camp, and his health is crucial for the Cavaliers' success moving forward.

In a surprising turn during a preseason game, Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors was ejected after expressing frustration towards a referee for a no-call on his drive. While it's just preseason, such incidents can set the tone for the regular season, highlighting the importance of maintaining composure on the court.

Allen Iverson, the NBA legend, has always been a trendsetter, known for his unique fashion sense that challenged the league's dress code. His candid reflections on defying these norms highlight not just his personal style but also his impact on basketball culture. This matters because it showcases how athletes can influence societal standards and inspire future generations to express themselves authentically.

Jabari Smith Jr. showcased his talent by scoring 26 points in just 22 minutes, leading the Houston Rockets to a perfect preseason record with a win over the New Orleans Pelicans. This performance not only highlights Smith's potential as a key player for the Rockets but also builds excitement for the upcoming NBA season, as fans look forward to seeing how he continues to develop.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is showcasing his MVP form this preseason with an outstanding performance against the Bucks. Coming off a remarkable 2024-25 season where he not only won the regular-season MVP but also led the Oklahoma City Thunder to an NBA championship, his continued excellence is a promising sign for the team. Fans are excited to see if he can maintain this level of play as the season approaches, making the Thunder a team to watch.

NBA fans are buzzing with excitement over the return of 'Roundball Rock' on Peacock, the iconic theme song that has become synonymous with basketball broadcasts. This nostalgic tune, originally composed for NBC's NBA coverage, is making a comeback, and fans are thrilled to hear it again as they tune into the preseason games. The revival of this beloved theme not only enhances the viewing experience but also connects a new generation of fans to the rich history of the NBA. It's a reminder of the joy and passion that basketball brings to its audience.

The Phoenix Suns have announced that Jalen Green will miss the season opener due to a hamstring injury he aggravated during a trip to Macao, China. This is disappointing news for Green, who had previously played 186 consecutive games without injury. Head coach Jordan Ott is optimistic about Green's recovery, emphasizing the team's commitment to ensuring he returns to full strength. This situation is significant as it impacts the Suns' lineup and their performance in the early part of the season.

Cleveland Cavaliers' Darius Garland is making significant progress in his recovery from a toe injury, as confirmed by head coach Kenny Atkinson. Garland participated in a 5-on-5 practice session, which is a promising sign ahead of the team's preseason finale. This update is crucial for the Cavaliers as they prepare for the upcoming season, highlighting Garland's potential return to form and the team's overall readiness.

Jason Kidd, the Hall of Fame basketball player, is set to continue as the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks after signing a multi-year contract extension. Kidd has been leading the team since the 2021-22 NBA season, and his excitement for the future reflects the Mavericks' commitment to building a strong team. This extension is significant as it ensures stability in the coaching staff, which is crucial for the team's development and success in the competitive NBA landscape.

Jalen Green, the new star guard for the Phoenix Suns, is expected to miss the team's regular season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a hamstring injury. This news is disappointing for Suns fans, as Green was anticipated to make a significant impact in his debut. The injury raises concerns about his recovery and the team's performance in the early part of the season.

The Golden State Warriors' decision to re-sign a key player this summer has been criticized by a prominent writer, who describes the move as a 'painful' mistake. This sentiment reflects concerns about the team's future performance and strategy, suggesting that the return may not align with the Warriors' goals. Such opinions matter as they can influence fan perceptions and the team's reputation in the competitive NBA landscape.

Liverpool is buzzing with excitement over the potential signing of Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, especially after news of his £75 million release clause. This development has sparked a transfer race, with many clubs now eyeing the talented forward. The interest in Semenyo highlights Liverpool's ambition to strengthen their squad and remain competitive in the Premier League, making this a significant moment for fans and the club alike.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are on the brink of returning to the World Series after a strong performance in Game 2 of the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers, winning 5-1. Yoshinobu Yamamoto shone with a complete-game effort, but Max Muncy's historic home run also deserves recognition. This victory not only boosts the Dodgers' chances but also highlights the team's resilience and talent, making fans excited for what lies ahead.

Real Madrid is reportedly shifting its internal order regarding centre-back candidates, with Dayot Upamecano now taking the lead in their transfer strategy. This change is significant as it reflects the club's evolving approach to strengthening their defense, which could impact their performance in La Liga and European competitions.

Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans showcased his incredible athleticism with a stunning 360 dunk during a preseason game against the Houston Rockets. This impressive feat not only highlights his skills but also raises excitement for the upcoming NBA season, as fans are eager to see how a slimmer Williamson performs on the court.

Chelsea is reportedly interested in Lazio's 25-year-old center back Mario Gila, as they look to strengthen their defense following Levi Colwill's ACL injury. Brighton is also in the mix for Gila, making this a competitive transfer battle. This situation is significant as it highlights Chelsea's ongoing efforts to rebuild their squad and address injury concerns, while also showcasing Brighton's ambition in the transfer market.

The Spanish national football team is making headlines as they matched their record-breaking unbeaten run from 2010 to 2013 with a recent victory over Bulgaria. This achievement not only highlights the team's consistent performance but also builds excitement as they approach the World Cup. Fans are hopeful that this momentum will carry them through the tournament, making Spain a strong contender.