The NBA has finalized several important changes that will impact the game, its stars, and its fans. At the board of governors meeting, league officials approved the new heave rule, discussed changes for the All-Star Game, updated expansion plans, and confirmed adjustments to the NBA Cup semifinals.
NBA Approves Heave Rule
The NBA officially approved the long-debated “heave rule.” Players can now attempt deep buzzer-beaters without harming their shooting percentages. Any shot taken within the final three seconds of the first three quarters, from at least 36 feet and starting in the backcourt, will count as a team attempt but not an individual attempt.
This change ends years of hesitation by players who avoided miracle heaves to protect personal stats. According to SportRadar, only about 4% of these shots were made last season. Golden State’s Stephen Curry sank four, while Denver’s Nikola Jokic hit three. The new rule should encourage more long-range attempts and create thrilling end-of-quarter moments.
All-Star Format Changes Coming
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed the league is close to finalizing changes to the All-Star Game.
“People have great memories of All-Star games. It’s part of the fabric of this league, the excitement that comes from it and the engagement from our players,” Silver said. “So, we want to fix it.”
Reports suggest two possible new formats: a U.S. vs World matchup or a three-team round-robin with two U.S. squads and one international squad. This comes after last season’s experimental mini-tournament — untimed games to 40 points with four teams of eight — failed to excite fans.
The new system would better reflect the league’s balance of talent. With two-thirds American and one-third international players, the format ensures fair representation while reigniting competitiveness.
NBA Expansion: Seattle and Las Vegas in Focus
Expansion was also discussed. Talks with FIBA continue on creating a European league with a cap-based financial system.
“I think our basketball people now are very engaged in how the competition will work,” Silver said. “Our lawyers are thinking hard on how we can take … a sort of cap-based system and revenue-sharing system with players and how we could apply that in a European framework.”
Domestically, Seattle and Las Vegas are strong contenders for future NBA franchises. Seattle has long awaited a return since the SuperSonics left in 2008. Las Vegas, already home to Summer League and NBA Cup finals, has become a natural candidate.
NBA Cup Semifinal Update
The NBA Cup will also see changes. From 2026-27, semifinals will be hosted by higher-seeded teams’ arenas. The final will remain at a neutral site. The adjustment rewards regular-season success and strengthens local fan engagement.
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