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NBPA Demands NBA Drop $221M Apron Amid Wembanyama Deal

7/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

On July 11 2026, NBPA director David Kelly urged the NBA to drop the second-apron.
He said $221.7 million second apron forces non-basketball decisions, contradicting Commissioner Adam Silver’s parity claim.
The Celtics cited apron concerns when trading Jaylen Brown.
Knicks owner James Dolan said his team will avoid the apron despite 2026 championship.
Victor Wembanyama signed a $252 million rookie extension, forgoing $50 million in escalators, noted in the apron debate.

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Story summary

On July 11 2026, NBPA director David Kelly urged the NBA to drop the second-apron.
He said $221.7 million second apron forces non-basketball decisions, contradicting Commissioner Adam Silver’s parity claim.
The Celtics cited apron concerns when trading Jaylen Brown.
Knicks owner James Dolan said his team will avoid the apron despite 2026 championship.
Victor Wembanyama signed a $252 million rookie extension, forgoing $50 million in escalators, noted in the apron debate.