We could write another standard intro, or we could put your hoops skills to the test. Better hope you’ve been practicing your free throws…

Today’s Lineup

One More Shot 🏀

With only 450 full-time roster spots to split among millions of hoopers globally, it’s hard to think of a more exclusive club than the NBA. Because of this, some super-talented ballers can be left on the outside looking in.

Let’s give a little shout-out to a couple of guys we need to see on an NBA roster this year.

Markelle Fultz

From the 1st overall pick at age 19 to potentially out of the league by 26, the story of Markelle Fultz just can’t end like this.

After a freak shoulder injury nearly derailed his career before it even began, Fultz inspired us all but fighting back and becoming a reliable rotation guard on the Magic. Now more of a gritty defensive-minded slasher than the insane scorer he was coming out of college, the former Sixer is still looking for his next NBA home.

Looking at teams who need extra perimeter defense, a little extra playmaking off the bench, and have plenty of shooters on the roster, could Cleveland be the right fit? Fultz would thrive in the defense-first environment the Cavs foster, especially on a bench unit filled with elite spot-up guys like Sam Merill, Georges Niang, and Dean Wade.

Lonnie Walker IV

Just a year and some change after being the Laker’s playoff hero in game 4 of the Western Conference Semis, it looks like Lonnie Walker IV might not even make an opening day roster. Doesn’t make a whole lot of sense right?

And, if you look at the numbers, it makes even less sense. Walker was one of the league’s best and most confident shooters last year, hitting over 38% of his threes while taking 9.6 of them per 36 (the 9th most in the NBA). Add in a lanky 6’10” wingspan alongside a dash of defensive versatility, and you get a valuable role player that fits on any team.

Looking around the league at teams with open roster spots, the Sixers seem like the logical fit here. Lonnie has proven he can make an impact in the playoffs, and Philly needs consistent shooters like him if they want to go on a deep run.

2K Glow Ups 💹

Only a couple weeks out from launch day and we’re finally getting all the good details about 2K25, including player ratings. 👀 Let’s take a look at some guys who got a serious glow-up for next season.

Stars Taking Another Leap ⭐

Jalen Brunson - 93 OVR (+5) Anthony Edwards - 93 OVR (+5) Paolo Banchero - 89 OVR (+5) Tyrese Maxey - 89 OVR (+4)

First up we have a group of young stars who were simply balling in the playoffs last year. Brunson and Edwards definitely lead the way here when it comes to 2K though, particularly Ant. With a 97 driving dunk, 98 draw foul, and one of the best three-point ratings on the game, he’ll be having people all across the country throwing their remotes against the wall. 😂

The Sophomore Breakouts 💪

Victor Wembanyama - 91 OVR (+7) Chet Holmgren - 87 OVR (+10) Dereck Lively II - 81 OVR (+9)

Sophomore year is where the magic happens, and this year’s big men got the biggest boosts. Leading the way is Victor Wembanyama, who was already unfair in last year’s game. Now? Wemby might be straight-up unguardable in 2K25. With his crazy mix of size, skills, and athleticism, he’s going to be giving opponents nightmares for years to come—both in the game and IRL.

Chet Holmgren’s rating also shot up after showing he can ball with the best of them, and Dereck Lively II’s solid rookie season earned him a big bump too.

Role Players on the Rise 🔥

Jalen Suggs - 82 OVR (+6) Coby White - 81 OVR (+5) Andrew Nembhard - 81 OVR (+5) Isaiah Hartenstein - 81 OVR (+5)

When you’re building your squad in MyLeague, trust us—you’ll want these guys on your side. We’re a big fan of all these names, but Jalen Suggs particularly feels like the type of player who everyone will be trying to trade for the second they launch a new save. A large PG with 93 perimeter defense, 88 speed, and he can splash? Sign us up!

Three in the Key

Signing Off

Thanks for hanging with us today y’all! The rest of this week, try and add a little more consistency to your life. Whether it’s going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, or carving out a window to work on a passion, adding structure can do a lot to make you less anxious and feel better.

Talk soon,

-Spencer Poole