ESPN Encourages First-Time Managers to Try Fantasy Basketball in 2025-26
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NEW YORK — ESPN on Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, released “Fantasy Basketball 101,” a step-by-step guide aimed at fans who have never played fantasy basketball. The network says the upcoming NBA season, highlighted by a deep pool of star talent, is an ideal entry point for newcomers.
Star-studded landscape fuels the pitch
The guide cites the arrival of highly touted rookie Cooper Flagg, the continued ascent of Victor Wembanyama, Anthony Edwards and reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as reasons for fresh excitement. Established contenders such as Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo remain in the MVP race, while a slimmed-down Luka Doncic starts his first full season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Veterans LeBron James, Kevin Durant and James Harden also continue to draw fantasy interest.
Customizable leagues
ESPN emphasizes that league set-ups—roster size, injury slots, scoring categories and lineup frequency—can be tailored to fit casual or die-hard preferences. The article encourages players to choose formats that match how often they want to manage rosters, whether weekly or daily.
Getting started
New managers can join existing leagues via invitations or create their own through the ESPN Fantasy app or the network’s website. Detailed instructions in the guide walk users through league creation, rule adjustments and schedule settings. Once registered, participants are advised to review rules by selecting “League” then “Settings” on their league page.
Draft preparation
ESPN recommends studying expert rankings in its draft kit, running mock drafts to test strategies and setting an autopick plan for those who cannot attend live drafts. Users can adjust positional priorities through the “Edit Autopick Strategy” link on their team page.
In-season play
The network outlines key season-long activities—trading, monitoring waiver wire moves, and managing games-played limits in rotisserie formats. A separate section addresses fantasy etiquette, urging managers to avoid insulting trade offers and maintain respectful communication on message boards.
With step-by-step resources and a headline-grabbing roster of NBA stars, ESPN says there has “never been a better time” for fans to experience fantasy basketball alongside millions of current players.
Source: ESPN
