UPDATE: The countdown to the 2025-26 NBA season is officially on, with the action set to tip off this Tuesday. As fans gear up for on-court drama, the NBA’s biggest stars have been making headlines off the court during the offseason.
From LeBron James embracing a new passion for golf to Nikola Jokic celebrating his horse’s victory, this summer has been filled with memorable moments for players. With the previous year’s Paris Olympics behind them, athletes took advantage of the downtime to enjoy their personal lives and connect with fans through social media.
Klay Thompson sent shockwaves through pop culture on July 12, 2025, with an Instagram post that hinted at a budding romance with rapper Megan Thee Stallion. His post, captioned “Sweet Bells son,” featured a vacation collage that sparked immediate speculation. The couple confirmed their relationship with a public appearance just days later, prompting reactions from fellow players like Kevin Durant and Dwight Howard.
Meanwhile, LeBron James shared his newfound love for golf, documenting his journey on social media. His first post came on July 4, where he expressed the challenges of the sport, stating, “Boy o boy it’s a mind f— to say the least!” He revealed that golf provides a rare opportunity for him to escape the spotlight. His son, Bronny James, also showcased his skills, impressing fans with his smooth swing after just four months of play.
Across the Atlantic, Victor Wembanyama hosted the “Hoops Gambit” chess tournament in his hometown of Le Chesnay, France. The San Antonio Spurs star invited dozens of competitors, including fellow French player Rudy Gobert, to join in on the chess matches. Their friendly rivalry captured attention, showcasing the growing popularity of chess among NBA players.
On the emotional front, Nikola Jokic’s love for horses was on full display after one of his steeds triumphed in a race in Subotica, Serbia. The Denver Nuggets superstar celebrated by showering his horse and team with champagne, tears of joy evident on his face. Earlier this summer, Jokic was spotted caring for horses during a visit to Beijing, further emphasizing his passion for equestrian life.
In a summer filled with celebrations, Jarrett Allen of the Cleveland Cavaliers made headlines with a fantastic wedding dance, choreographed to the iconic song from “High School Musical.” The couple’s performance, titled “#We’reAllenThisTogether,” resonated with fans and showcased their creativity.
Even the competitive spirit remained strong as Anthony Edwards took his trash talk global. During a trip to China for Adidas’ “Believe That” tour, he met basketball legend Yao Ming, reminding the retired center that he wouldn’t be spared from a dunk if they ever faced off.
Finally, a major offseason trade has sent shockwaves through the league. The Phoenix Suns traded Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in late June, a move that reshapes the landscape of the NBA. In a serendipitous moment, Durant learned of the trade while being interviewed on stage at Fanatics Fest, prompting a euphoric reaction from the crowd.
As the NBA prepares for the upcoming season, fans are eagerly watching how these offseason stories will unfold on the court. Stay tuned for more updates and developments as players return to action and new rivalries form. The excitement is palpable, and the NBA community is ready for another thrilling season.
