ESPN's Future Power Rankings project a three-season arc for every NBA club. Oklahoma City sits atop thanks to a championship-ready young core, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s extension, and a draft asset avalanche. The Lakers benefit from a Luka Doncic era alignment, while Victor Wembanyama makes San Antonio a legitimate title sleeper within three years. Houston, Cleveland and the rest shape a volatile West and a flexible East, where cap space and asset management drive options.

Dallas hosted the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation Tennis Classic, pairing basketball legends with rising stars and cross-sport guests in a high-profile charity night. Cooper Flagg, Mavericks rookie forward, drew the spotlight with a coin-flip moment and a court presence that hints at a rising ceiling. Nowitzki and Steve Nash steered the doubles, while Devin Harris and Joakim Noah spiced the action, and Elvis Andrus added MLB flair from the crowd.

For fantasy managers, Flagg’s exposure suggests a potential late-season opportunity if his role grows. The event underscores the Mavericks’ culture and development-first approach, with Nowitzki’s brand helping attract talent and create depth that could matter down the stretch and in keeper leagues.