League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Draft

NBA board of governors approves new draft lottery format

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: May 29, 2026, 11:44 PM

Last updated May 29, 2026

NBA board of governors approves new draft lottery format

Summary

The NBA's board of governors voted overwhelmingly to implement changes to the league's draft lottery format on Thursday. Key adjustments include an expansion from 14 to 16 teams and the introduction of anti-tanking measures. These changes aim to discourage teams from deliberately losing games to improve their draft position. The decision comes as part of ongoing league efforts to maintain competitive balance. The revised lottery format will be in effect for future drafts.

Source Links

ESPN NBA

Key Details

•NBA board of governors voted on draft lottery changes
•Draft lottery expanded from 14 to 16 teams
•New anti-tanking measures introduced
•Changes aim to maintain competitive balance in the league
•Revisions will take effect in upcoming drafts

Latest Updates

11:44 PMESPN NBA — Sources: NBA's BOG passes anti-tanking changes
4:11 PMESPN NBA — NBA draft lottery reform is here: Pros and cons of...

What they're saying

"
The NBA's board of governors voted overwhelmingly Thursday to change the league's draft lottery format, including expanding from 14 to 16 teams, as well as anti-tanking measures, the league announced.
— ESPN NBAby Tim Bontemps