NBA Stars Fill Quiet 2025 Offseason With Golf, Horses, Romance and a Blockbuster Trade
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The absence of major summer competitions left NBA players with extra time away from the court, and social media captured how they used it. From new hobbies and headline-making relationships to a major trade, the league’s top names kept fans entertained throughout the 2025 offseason.
Klay Thompson Goes Public With Megan Thee Stallion
Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson surprised followers on July 12 by posting an Instagram vacation collage that included rapper Megan Thee Stallion. The post, captioned “Sweet Bells son,” ignited dating rumors that were confirmed days later when the pair walked a New York red carpet together. Teammates and fellow players, including Kevin Durant and Dwight Howard, chimed in online as Thompson’s “hard launch” dominated pop-culture chatter.
LeBron and Bronny Take Up Golf
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James revealed a new passion for golf on July 4, only his second day playing. Calling the sport “a mind f—” on Instagram, the 21-year veteran later told the “360 With Speedy” podcast he enjoys the challenge and relative anonymity the course provides. His eldest son and teammate, Bronny James, followed suit, displaying a polished swing four months after picking up the clubs.
Victor Wembanyama Hosts Chess Tournament in France
San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama expanded his well-known interest in chess by staging the “Hoops Gambit” tournament in Le Chesnay, France. Dozens participated, including fellow Frenchman Rudy Gobert of the Minnesota Timberwolves. The two big men even squared off across the board on July 20, pitting defense against defense in a different arena.
Nikola Jokic Celebrates Horse-Racing Win
Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic marked a personal victory in Subotica, Serbia, in late July when one of his horses crossed the finish line first. The two-time MVP leapt a railing to greet his horse and driver, tears in his eyes before showering the group—and himself—with champagne. Earlier in the week, league accounts shared images of Jokic tending to horses while visiting Beijing.
Jarrett Allen Recreates ‘High School Musical’ at Wedding
Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen and wife Jordyn choreographed a reception dance to “We’re All In This Together,” the finale number from the 2006 Disney film “High School Musical.” The 6-foot-9 All-Star also tagged his wedding photos “#We’reAllenThisTogether,” completing the theme.
Anthony Edwards Trash-Talks Yao Ming in China
Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards carried his trademark bravado overseas during Adidas’ “Believe That” tour. While in China, the 6-foot-4 guard jokingly told retired 7-foot-6 center Yao Ming he would not be spared a dunk, delivering the friendly jab as cameras rolled.
Kevin Durant Learns of Trade on Stage
The biggest roster move of the summer broke in real time at Fanatics Fest in late June. As Kevin Durant sat for an on-stage interview, reports surfaced that the Phoenix Suns had traded him to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 draft and five second-round selections. Durant managed only a smile while the crowd erupted.
Russell Westbrook Practices on a Yacht
Vacation did not interrupt Russell Westbrook’s workout routine. Video posted from the Sacramento Kings guard’s yacht showed him dribbling and launching jumpers at a portable hoop set up on deck, illustrating a new definition of staying ready.
With training camps now complete, the 2025-26 NBA season opens Tuesday, but the summer’s viral moments offered a different kind of highlight reel for players and fans alike.
Source: ESPN
