NBA Players Association Voices Concerns Over Tanking, Game Eligibility Rules

MILWAUKEE & DETROIT – The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) has issued strong statements addressing two critical issues currently impacting the NBA: the controversial 65-game rule for end-of-season awards eligibility and the ongoing situation surrounding Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo’s potential return to the court. The union’s concerns reflect a growing tension between player participation, team strategy, and the integrity of the game.

Cade Cunningham and the 65-Game Rule

The NBPA’s call for reform stems, in part, from the potential ineligibility of Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham for postseason awards. Cunningham, who has delivered a standout season, recently suffered a collapsed lung, sidelining him for an undetermined period. Due to the fact that of the league’s 65-game requirement for awards consideration, Cunningham’s chances of being recognized for his performance are now in jeopardy, despite a career-defining year.

“Cade Cunningham’s potential ineligibility for postseason awards after a career-defining season is a clear indictment of the 65-game rule and yet another example of why it must be abolished or reformed to create an exception for significant injuries,” the NBPA stated through a spokesperson. “Since its implementation, far too many deserving players have been unfairly disqualified from end-of-season honors by this arbitrary and overly rigid quota.”

Cunningham had appeared in 61 games before the injury, putting him within reach of the threshold. However, the severity of his condition casts doubt on his ability to meet the requirement. The 65-game rule impacts other prominent players as well, including LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stephen Curry, Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, Luka Dončić, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, all of whom are either nearing the limit or face potential risks of falling short due to injury or team management decisions.

It’s important to note that the 65-game rule was a negotiated element of the current collective bargaining agreement between the NBA and the NBPA. Any changes would require a return to the negotiating table. The rule was intended to incentivize consistent player availability, but the NBPA argues it now unfairly penalizes players sidelined by legitimate injuries.

Addressing “Tanking” and the Giannis Antetokounmpo Situation

The NBPA’s criticism extends beyond the awards eligibility rule to address what it perceives as “tanking” – the practice of teams intentionally losing games to improve their draft position. The union specifically called out the Milwaukee Bucks’ handling of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s recent knee injury, alleging a potential attempt to sideline their star player for the remainder of the season.

According to reports, the Bucks requested that Antetokounmpo be shut down for the season following a hyperextended knee and bone bruise sustained during a game against the Indiana Pacers in March 2025. Antetokounmpo reportedly refused, expressing a desire to return to play if physically able. This disagreement has prompted the NBPA to demand greater accountability from team ownership.

“The Player Participation Policy was designed by the league to hold teams accountable and ensure that when an all-star like Giannis Antetokounmpo is healthy and ready to play, he is on the court,” the NBPA stated. “Unfortunately, anti-tanking policies are only as effective as their enforcement. fans, broadcast partners, and the integrity of the game itself will continue to suffer as long as ownership goes unchecked. We look forward to collaborating with the NBA on meaningful novel proposals that will directly address and discourage tanking.”

The Bucks, currently 11th in the Eastern Conference, face an increasingly slim chance of securing a playoff berth. Their decision regarding Antetokounmpo’s playing status carries significant implications for the team’s future, as well as the broader perception of competitive integrity within the league. The situation highlights a delicate balance between player health, team strategy, and the league’s commitment to maintaining a compelling product for fans.

What’s Next?

The NBPA’s statements signal a clear intent to push for changes to both the 65-game rule and the enforcement of anti-tanking policies. Discussions between the union and the NBA are expected to resume, potentially during the offseason, to address these concerns. The outcome of these negotiations could have a significant impact on player incentives, team strategies, and the overall landscape of the NBA.

As of March 25, 2026, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s status remains uncertain. The Bucks have not officially announced a decision regarding his return to play, and the situation continues to be monitored closely by the league and the NBPA. Cade Cunningham’s recovery timeline is also unclear, leaving his awards eligibility hanging in the balance.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the NBA and the NBPA respond to these challenges, and whether meaningful changes will be implemented to address the concerns raised by the players’ association.