EuroBasket 2025 kicks off Aug 27 and runs through Sept 14, spotlighting Jokic-led Serbia, skin-on-fire Doncic as Slovenia eyes glory, and Giannis steering Greece. Porzingis, Sengun, Markkanen and Wagner are among NBA stars carrying heavy fantasy weight as Europe hosts group play in Cyprus, Finland, Latvia and Poland. 18 NBA teams feature players, and the tournament doubles as a high-variance mini-stage for fantasy managers chasing breakout performances and late-season form.

Key names to watch include Jokic's playmaking surge for Serbia, Doncic's elite athleticism return after knee concerns, Porzingis' 3-point floor-spreading impact, Sengun's breakout potential as Houston's hub, and Markkanen's rejuvenated efficiency. Franz Wagner and Deni Avdija offer versatile wings for Germany and Israel, while Vucevic, Aldama and Middleton provide veteran floor presence and potential value upside as the field narrows toward knockout rounds.

Anthony Edwards exudes confidence and athletic explosiveness, turning rim attacks and posters into his calling card as Minnesota eyes Western Conference supremacy. His offseason trash-talking and competitive edge hint at a bigger, more volume-driven role this season, with finishing at the rim and drawing fouls boosting his fantasy ceiling.

His playful nod to Yao Ming sits as a symbolic benchmark for Edwards’ ambition rather than a real matchup, underscoring the Wolves’ push for top-tier status. In fantasy terms, Edwards’ trajectory depends on efficiency gains, playmaking growth, and how the supporting cast amplifies his scoring opportunities.

Rockets pursued Kevin Durant for an extended period, weighing Suns’ asks against Houston’s contender window after a 52-30 upgrade. By waiting, Phoenix’s leverage cooled and Durant’s age with 2 years left altered the calculus, culminating in a trade that sent only the 2025 No. 10 pick rather than multiple assets. Rafael Stone expressed satisfaction with Durant’s character and fit since the talks began, underscoring a meticulous, long-game approach to roster overhaul.

Two key shifts enabled the deal: Houston’s proximity to title contention and Suns price concessions with Durant nearing free agency. The Rockets’ path to a supercharged duo franchise ceiling hinged on patient asset management, and the final package reflected a balance between immediate impact and long-term flexibility.