February 24, 2025 | Read Online

WEEKLY DRIBBLE - LEAGUEALERTS

Last Week's Top NBA News

1. Victor Wembanyama's Season-Ending Injury

San Antonio Spurs' rookie star Victor Wembanyama was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, sidelining him for the season. His rookie card even broke records, selling for $860,100.

Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich will miss the rest of the season after suffering a mild stroke. Interim coach Mitch Johnson has taken over and earned praise for his leadership.

Backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and the Singaporean government, a new basketball league with a $5 billion investment is in the works, aiming to challenge the NBA's global influence.

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has expressed support for a proposed All-Star Game featuring Team USA versus Team World, believing it will boost global engagement.

In a delightful live moment, Shaquille O'Neal surprised Charles Barkley with a red fur coat for his 62nd birthday, sparking joy among fans and commentators alike.

Fantasy Basketball Sit or Start Guide

Josh Giddey

Start

Chicago Bulls - Guard

Since joining the Bulls, Giddey's role in playmaking and scoring has grown considerably. He's posting strong numbers in points, rebounds, and assists while facing favorable matchups. Expect his usage to increase if key players miss time.

Schedule: 3 Games

Bilal Coulibaly

Start

Washington Wizards

In full rebuild mode, the Wizards are giving Coulibaly extended minutes. He contributes across multiple categories – points, rebounds, steals, and blocks – making him a sneaky play. Favorable matchups could see his role expand further.

Schedule: 3 Games

Keldon Johnson

Start

San Antonio Spurs - Forward

With Victor Wembanyama out for the season, Johnson has stepped up as a primary offensive option. He's delivering consistent scoring, three-pointers, and rebounding, all while benefiting from weak defensive matchups.

Schedule: 3 Games

Donovan Clingan

Start

Portland Trail Blazers

Clingan's rebounding and shot-blocking ability make him a valuable asset, even in limited minutes. With strong matchups this week, he could emerge as a double-double threat and provide elite defensive stats.

Schedule: 3 Games

Scottie Pippen Jr.

Sit

Memphis Grizzlies - Guard

Although Pippen Jr. has seen increased minutes due to injuries in the Grizzlies' backcourt, his fantasy impact remains limited. His usage is inconsistent and he struggles to contribute meaningfully beyond scoring. With key players returning soon, his role is expected to diminish.

Schedule: 2 Games

Strategy Tip: Prioritize players with more games and a defined role to maximize your fantasy production this week.

NBA Updates Email

NBA Injury Updates

Top Injury Updates in the NBA:

Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
Injury: Deep vein thrombosis in right shoulder
Details: Diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, Wembanyama is out for the remainder of the 2024-25 season. He was averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks per game.

Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)
Injury: Recurring knee injury
Details: Embiid is facing a recurring knee injury that may require surgery, having played only 19 of 56 games this season due to knee and foot issues.

Josh Hart (New York Knicks)
Injury: Sore knee
Details: After missing two games due to a sore knee, Hart returned with a near triple-double performance, scoring 20 points in a 118-105 loss to the Celtics.

Karl-Anthony Towns (New York Knicks)
Injury: Knee discomfort
Details: Towns experienced knee discomfort after a dunk attempt against the Celtics. Further evaluations are pending.

Anthony Davis (Dallas Mavericks)
Injury: Left adductor strain
Details: Recovering from a left adductor strain sustained on February 8, 2025, Davis is progressing but remains sidelined for at least two more weeks, potentially missing seven additional games. He was averaging 25.7 points, 12.0 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.2 blocks per game before the injury. The Mavericks signed Moses Brown to a 10-day contract in response.

Player Performances of the Week:

LeBron James
40 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 1 block

In a remarkable display of versatility and leadership, LeBron James delivered an outstanding performance. His 40-point effort, combined with 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block, showcased his ability to dominate on both ends of the floor.

Click the image to watch the video

Paolo Banchero
36 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists

Paolo Banchero delivered a strong performance, demonstrating his scoring prowess and his ability to contribute across the board. His 36-point effort, along with 10 rebounds and 5 assists, highlights his emerging talent and significant impact on the game.