Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers)
April 2025 (Auction held Thursday)
A jersey worn by Kobe Bryant during his 1996-97 rookie season sold for $7 million at Sotheby’s, breaking the record for any Bryant collectible.
The jersey was photo-matched to seven games including his NBA debut. It surpassed the $5.8M record set by his 2007-08 MVP season jersey and is now the fourth-most-expensive game-worn jersey ever sold.
Ja Morant v Joshua Holloway
April 2025 (Ruling issued Monday)
A judge has dismissed a civil lawsuit filed by Joshua Holloway, who accused Ja Morant of assault during a 2022 pickup game, ruling Morant acted in self-defense.
The court found Holloway’s testimony not credible and upheld Morant’s civil immunity under Tennessee’s “stand your ground” law. Witnesses, including Mike Miller, confirmed Holloway initiated the incident by hitting Morant with the ball.
Troy Weaver (New Orleans Pelicans)
April 2025
The New Orleans Pelicans have hired former Pistons GM Troy Weaver as senior vice president of basketball operations, reporting to EVP Joe Dumars.
Weaver leaves his consultant role with the Wizards to join the Pelicans’ front office. Despite a losing record in Detroit, he was credited with drafting key young talent like Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson.
Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
April 2025 (Game 1 vs Lakers)
The NBA has fined Anthony Edwards $50,000 for inappropriate language and an obscene gesture toward a fan during Minnesota’s Game 1 win over the Lakers.
Edwards reacted to heckling aimed at Rudy Gobert by defending his teammate and ending the exchange with a lewd gesture. The fine was announced by league operations president Byron Spruell.
Payton Pritchard (Boston Celtics)
April 2025
Payton Pritchard has been named the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year, averaging 14.3 points on 40.7% 3-point shooting while energizing Boston’s bench during their title defense.
Once on the fringe of the rotation, Pritchard embraced his role off the bench, appearing in all 80 games and averaging over 28 minutes per night. He earned 82 of 100 first-place votes.
Payton Pritchard (Boston Celtics)
April 2025
Celtics guard Payton Pritchard said the Magic’s physical approach won’t intimidate Boston or derail their playoff goals.
Pritchard acknowledged the hard foul on Tatum but reaffirmed the team’s focus. He emphasized that Boston remains locked in and undeterred by the intensity.
Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets)
April 2025 (Game 1 postgame)
Rockets coach Ime Udoka said the defense was good enough to win but called the offense the worst of the season after a 10-point loss to Golden State.
Udoka declined to overreact, noting five players were making playoff debuts. He stressed better shot selection and ball movement are key for Game 2 improvements.
Noa Essengue (Ratiopharm Ulm)
Declared April 19, 2025; NBA Draft set for June 25–26
Projected top-20 pick Essengue officially enters the 2025 NBA Draft. Ranked No. 17 by ESPN, he’s aiming to rise into the top 10.
The 6’10” forward impressed with elite defensive versatility, athleticism, and maturity in EuroCup and BBL play. At just 18, he’s already competed with France’s senior national team and is praised for guarding 1–5.
Rob Pelinka (Los Angeles Lakers)
Contract extension and title change announced April 19, 2025
Pelinka signs a multiyear extension and is promoted to president of basketball operations while retaining GM duties.
Pelinka has led the Lakers to four playoff appearances and an NBA title (2020) since joining in 2017. This season, he landed Luka Doncic in a blockbuster deal, positioning the franchise for long-term success.
Mat Ishbia (Phoenix Suns Owner)
April 2025, following Suns’ 36-46 season and missing playoffs
Ishbia called the 2024-25 campaign “embarrassing” and “a failure,” citing poor effort, no identity, and misaligned roster decisions. Coach Mike Budenholzer was fired, and further changes are expected.
Ishbia pledged to reshape the team culture around grit, passion, and work ethic. Devin Booker remains untouchable, while Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal’s futures are uncertain amid trade speculation. The Suns will now search for their fourth coach in four seasons.
