The NBA playoff season has heated up, bringing a flurry of exciting updates from both on and off the court. Beyond the 16 teams in postseason contention, noteworthy developments are unfolding. Here’s a roundup of some news that may have flown under the radar.
Alijah Arenas Set to Leave Hospital
In a heartening development, Alijah Arenas, the son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas, is expected to be released from the hospital soon. He has been in an induced coma following a serious car accident but, according to ESPN, has not sustained any major injuries.
BREAKING: Alijah Arenas is expected to be released from the hospital with no major injuries.
Incredible news (h/t @ClutchPoints) pic.twitter.com/aKK2fbqMRb
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 28, 2025
Khaman Maluach Declares for NBA Draft
In another significant announcement, Khaman Maluach, a towering South Sudanese player from Duke University, has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. Standing at an impressive 2.19 meters, Maluach is renowned for his defensive prowess and is projected to be selected in the Top 10 this June.
BREAKING: Khaman Maluach has declared for the NBA Draft!
One of my favorite one-and-dones ever pic.twitter.com/Parf6Bizpg
— Blue Devils (@BlueDevils) April 27, 2025
Possible USA vs. World All-Star Game?
Following a lackluster edition in February, the NBA is reportedly contemplating a USA vs. International format for the 2026 All-Star Game. The league is interested in adopting a format similar to that of the NHL, which recently garnered widespread acclaim.
While details are still in the early stages, discussions have been initiated with NBC, the league’s upcoming broadcaster, and the players’ association. The choice of Los Angeles’ Intuit Dome as the venue, which will also host the 2028 Olympic basketball tournament, could influence NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to finally adopt this new format.
Team U.S. vs. Team World as an All-Star showcase?
Adam Silver tells @joevardon that the NBA is considering the possibility. https://t.co/ANrwzYcThy pic.twitter.com/YJWXuAYD1z
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 29, 2025
Shaquille O’Neal to Join Sacramento State
In a surprising turn of events, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is set to become the general manager for Sacramento State’s men’s basketball team, as reported by Shams Charania of ESPN. This move follows the path of his son, Shaqir, who plays for the team under former NBA player Mike Bibby, marking a nostalgic reunion reminiscent of the intense Kings-Lakers rivalry in the early 2000s.
Shaquille O’Neal has agreed to become the men’s basketball general manager of Sacramento State, sources tell ESPN. It will be a voluntary role for Shaq, whose son, Shaqir O’Neal, also plays for Sac State under Mike Bibby. Shaq and Bibby form a star duo as college GM and coach. pic.twitter.com/3F2NQBbhf7
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 29, 2025
NBA Admits Refereeing Error In Lakers-Timberwolves Game
In recent developments regarding officiating, the NBA’s Last Two Minute (L2M) report has confirmed that a foul was indeed committed against Luka Doncic in the final moments of the Lakers-Timberwolves game. This revelation substantiates complaints made by former player J.J. Redick, as Luka was tripped by Jaden McDaniels with only 33 seconds left on the clock.
The NBA’s L2M Report confirms that Luka Doncic was tripped by Jaden McDaniels with 33 seconds remaining in Game 4 of Lakers-Timberwolves.
LA was trailing Minnesota by 1 point, and if a foul had been called, Doncic would have gone to the free throw line. pic.twitter.com/8ar7OMO6UK
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 28, 2025
Stan Van Gundy and Steve Nash Join Amazon
In a significant shift for NBA broadcasting, Stan Van Gundy, currently a consultant for TNT, will join Amazon as a game analyst for its upcoming NBA coverage next season. Reports indicate that Steve Nash is also set to make the transition to Amazon, further enhancing the platform’s basketball offerings.
TNT’s Stan Van Gundy has been hired by Amazon Prime Video to be a game analyst for its forthcoming NBA coverage next season, sources tell @AndrewMarchand.
Van Gundy joins Ian Eagle on Prime Video’s game telecasts.
🔗 https://t.co/9lBqAy4K48
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 29, 2025
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