Who Won the 2025/26 NBA Championship?

The Denver Nuggets claimed their second consecutive title in a thrilling Game 7 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, 108–103. Nikola Jokić was named Finals MVP, extending his dominance as the league’s most complete player with a record-breaking 32.7 points per game and 14.2 assists in the postseason.

Jokić’s performance capped a season where the Nuggets became the first team since the 2000–01 Lakers to win back-to-back titles, a feat that had eluded the league for decades. The Lakers, meanwhile, fell just short despite a historic regular season led by LeBron James, who finished with 28.9 points per game—his highest average since 2015.

Key Stat: The Nuggets’ 60–22 regular-season record set a new franchise mark, while their 16–1 playoff run tied the 2001 Lakers for the best postseason record in NBA history.

Europe’s Top Performers: Who Stole the Show?

While the NBA dominated headlines, Europe’s top leagues delivered their own standout seasons. The EuroLeague saw the Fenerbahçe of Turkey claim their fifth title, defeating Real Madrid in a dramatic final. The series was decided by a single point in overtime, with Nikola Mirotić earning Finals MVP honors.

In Italy, the Virtus Bologna secured their first Serie A title in 12 years, while Germany’s Bayern Munich made history by winning the BBL championship for the first time since 2014.

Surprise Standout: The EuroCup was won by Anadolu Efes, who overcame a 2–0 deficit in the final to defeat Union Neuchâtel. The victory marked Efes’ third EuroCup title in five years, solidifying their status as Turkey’s premier basketball franchise.

The Biggest Upsets and Collapses of the Season

The 2025/26 season wasn’t just about champions—it was also defined by teams that defied expectations and others that crumbled under pressure.

NBA:

• Milwaukee Bucks: Despite finishing with the second-best record in the league (61–21), the Bucks were upset in the first round by the Cleveland Cavaliers, ending Giannis Antetokounmpo’s quest for a third straight Finals appearance.
• Golden State Warriors: The Warriors, who had won 73 games the previous season, collapsed to a 45–37 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Stephen Curry’s 20.1 points per game—down from his 28.3 average in 2024/25—highlighted the team’s struggles.
• Phoenix Suns: Devin Booker led the Suns to a historic 58–24 record, but their playoff run ended in the Conference Finals against Denver. Booker finished the season with 29.8 points per game, the highest average in the league.

Europe:

• CSKA Moscow: The Russian powerhouse, a perennial EuroLeague contender, finished a disappointing sixth in the regular season, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2018.
• Olympiacos: Greece’s giants, who had won the EuroLeague in 2024, were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Fenerbahçe, ending their title defense.
• FC Barcelona: Despite a strong regular season, Barcelona was upset in the semifinals of the ACB League by Real Madrid, who went on to win the league.

What the Standings Mean for the 2026/27 Season

The 2025/26 season has set the stage for major roster changes, coaching shifts, and potential trades that could reshape the NBA and Europe’s top leagues.

NBA Playoff Picture:

The Nuggets’ dominance means Denver will be the team to beat in 2026/27, but the Lakers’ collapse could lead to major changes in Los Angeles. LeBron James, now 41, is expected to enter his final season, and the Lakers may explore a trade for younger talent to rebuild.

The Bucks’ first-round exit has already sparked rumors of a potential trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo, with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers among the most likely suitors.

Key Question: Will the Warriors’ rebuild accelerate, or will they attempt to retain Curry and Klay Thompson for another run?

Europe’s Rebuilding Projects:

CSKA Moscow’s playoff miss has led to calls for a new head coach, with former EuroLeague champion Duško Ivanović being linked to the job.

Meanwhile, Olympiacos is expected to make a major signing to reclaim their title-winning form, with Victor Wembanyama rumored to be a target if he returns to Europe.

Player of the Year: Who Had the Best Season?

The 2025/26 NBA MVP was awarded to Nikola Jokić, who averaged 28.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 10.1 assists per game. His two-way dominance—leading the league in both field goal percentage (62.1%) and assists—cemented his status as the NBA’s most complete player.

In Europe, Nikola Mirotić was named EuroLeague Final Four MVP, while Luka Dončić led the EuroLeague scoring title with 24.3 points per game.

Rookie of the Year: The NBA’s top rookie was Brandon Miller, who averaged 18.7 points and 6.2 assists per game as a first-year player for the Atlanta Hawks.

What’s Next? The Offseason Moves to Watch

With the season over, the focus shifts to free agency, trades, and coaching changes. Here’s what to expect:

• NBA Free Agency: The 2026 NBA Free Agency begins on July 1, with key players like Paul George (32) and Jaylen Brown (29) likely to be in high demand.
• European Signings: The EuroLeague’s offseason will see top teams chase NBA-level talent, with Lauri Markkanen and Dennis Schröder among the most sought-after free agents.
• Coaching Changes: The Lakers are expected to make a decision on Darvin Hammonds, while CSKA Moscow is likely to hire a new head coach.

Next Checkpoint: The 2026 NBA Draft is set for June 26, where the top prospects will be selected. The EuroLeague Draft follows on July 5.