The Warriors, Thunder and Nuggets should be in the mix near the top of the conference. Illustration: Demetrius Robinson / The Athletic; Photos: Nic Antaya / Getty Images, Zach Beeker / NBAE via Getty ...

There were no brighter stars this quarter century than Steph Curry, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. Illustration: Will Tullos / The Athletic; Photos: Patrick Smith, Gina Ferazzi, Lisa Blumenfeld / Getty ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Nathan Goldman is a tax prof. at NC State Univ. The 2025-2026 college basketball season kicks off on November 3. The defending ...