The weeks leading up to the preseason often feel like a timeout that should be over already. The major trades are already complete, the summer league was dusted a while back, and all that’s left is to wait for some real action. For most NBA fans, this pause often feels like it’s taking forever.
So how do other supporters fill the gap? There are many ways to keep yourself engaged, and they range from international tournaments to taking a break to play Stake original mines while counting down the days.
FIBA EuroBasket 2025 (International Basketball)
This year’s cool-off period gladly coincides with the FIBA EuroBasket 2025. This is the biggest competition for men’s national teams in Europe, and it determines the champions of Europe. It’s held every four years, and the 2025 edition runs from August 27 to September 14. It’s being held across Cyprus, Finland, Poland, and Latvia, with the knockout rounds being in Riga, Latvia.
This is one of the best ways for basketball fans all over the world to enjoy world-class action. NBA fans will also get to see some of the biggest names in the competition, including the likes of Nikola Jokić for Serbia, Giannis Antetokounmpo for Greece, and Luka Dončić for Slovenia.
It’s also a chance to see players who may be a role piece in the NBA suddenly become the focal points and hope of a nation. It’s definitely worth keeping an eye on the competition.
Last-Minute Roster Moves, Player & Team News
Even though the big trades and free agency signings are wrapped up, most teams have still not finalised their rosters. There are still some decisions that will help shape the team depth of various teams. It’s worth watching out for training camp invites, two-way contracts, and last-minute signings that give some fringe players a chance to prove that they belong on an NBA floor.
Fans tend to track these updates closely, especially when they are about familiar veterans who may land a new team or a promising G League standout who earns a call-up.
Besides these, team news never really dries up. Reporters are usually on hand to provide updates on player recoveries, so you can watch out to see whether injured player Damian Lillard will be ready for the season start or how other long-term ones like Kyrie Irving are doing in recovery.
Social Media, Podcasts & Debates
Even though there are no box scores to check or highlights from last night, the conversation never stops. Social media platforms like Twitter (or X), Instagram, and TikTok are always alive with some hot takes, trade machine fantasies, and meme culture, which is particularly quite strong in the NBA. You just need to follow the right accounts and like relevant posts, and the algorithm will adjust and ensure you are always in the loop.
Besides these, there are also podcasts and YouTube channels you can always tune into. You’ll enjoy debates and analysis on team strategies, player developments, and how the preseason is shaping up. These are quite good at giving fans a new angle of analysis when the season starts.
Preseason Buzz
The results don’t really count, but once it’s media day and then the first preseason game, you’ll get something that’s almost NBA-like. It’s a good chance to analyse different teams and get a glimpse of what the season will look like. It’s especially quite exciting as you’ll also get to see rookies get their first taste of NBA minutes and new trades put on their new kits.
Preseason will also bridge the entire NBA community back into game rhythm, so you’ll see social media debates increase significantly. It will be a signal that the wait for the 2025/26 NBA season is almost over.
