NBA News Roundup, Monday, August 26th: Caris LeVert signs huge contract extension with the Brooklyn Nets, Reggie Jackson speaks out on Derrick Rose's arrival and more

The 2019 FIBA World Cup is set to take centre stage over the next few weeks, although many basketball fans are still eagerly anticipating the upcoming NBA season. The forthcoming campaign is gearing up to be among the most competitive in a number of years after the Sixers, Clippers, Lakers, and Celtics all strengthened, while the Golden State Warriors lost a host of stars including Kevin Durant, DeMarcus Cousins, and Andre Iguodala.

Plenty could also happen in the weeks building up to opening night as free agents including Carmelo Anthony and Jamal Crawford continue to search for a new team. Meanwhile, big names such as Steven Adams and Devin Booker have been linked with trades, and at least one major shakeup is possible on the eve of the season. So, with plenty going on, here is all the latest NBA news and rumours you need to know for August 26th.

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#1 Caris LeVert extends his deal with the Brooklyn Nets

Caris LeVert is an important member of the Nets roster

The Brooklyn Nets have already made significant moves this summer by signing the All-Star duo of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, and ESPN is reporting that the team has penned Caris LeVert to a new long-term deal:

Brooklyn Nets guard Caris LeVert has agreed to a three-year, $52.5 million contract extension, league sources told ESPN. LeVert, who turned 25 on Sunday, was eligible for his rookie extension as a member of the NBA's draft class of 2016.

LeVert missed 42 games with a dislocated right ankle last season, although the 25-year-old was impressive during his time on the court. Over 40 appearances, LeVert averaged 13.7 points, 3.9 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game. The small forward is expected to play a prominent role this season as the Nets attempt to compete for a title.

#2 Darius Bazley is confident that he can make the step up to the NBA

Darius Bazley believes he can succeed in the N

In the summer of 2018, Darius Bazley committed to Syracuse, but eventually pulled out as he eyed the G-League. However, Bazley eventually made the decision to train alone throughout the year while completing an internship with New Balance.

Nevertheless, Bazley's unusual route to the NBA didn't put teams off, and the 19-year-old finds himself with the Thunder after being selected with the 23rd overall pick. While some have expressed doubt over Bazley's ability to adapt to the NBA, the small forward told Maddie Lee of the Oklahoman that his unorthodox path has equipped him with the skills needed to succeed:

I feel like without me going through that internship, without me having to balance that crazy schedule, I wouldn’t be the person I am now. And I wouldn’t be ready for the position that I’m in now, that I’m about to step into.

Bazley played four times for the Thunder during Summer League, averaging 4.7 points and 4.5 rebounds.

#3 Reggie Jackson believes he can co-exist with Derrick Rose

Reggie Jackson was among the Pistons' best performers last season

The Detroit Pistons' main move during the offseason was the acquisition of Derrick Rose. Rose signed a two-year deal worth $15 million, and some have suggested that the 30-year-old could force Reggie Jackson to the bench. However, Jackson himself says that he is looking forward to playing alongside the 2011 MVP.

I’ll have more of a chance to play with Derrick (Rose) on the ball and off. I’m better at catch-and-shoot. The layout of the team is complementary to each other. All the pieces work really well and it’s ideal for my game, how we mesh.

Jackson started all 82 games during the 18-19 season, averaging 15.4 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Rose was mostly used from the bench by the Minnesota Timberwolves, but the veteran still managed to average 18.0 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game.