NBA fantasy basketball is all about making the right moves before the first game even tips off. Yet every year, managers fall into the same traps that can derail their season. From overspending on superstar names to ignoring playoff schedules, these mistakes can turn a promising draft into a frustrating uphill battle. Here’s how to avoid them — and give yourself the best chance to dominate your league.

1. Overspending on Big Names

It’s tempting to blow your budget (or early draft picks) on household NBA stars, but this can backfire quickly. Yes, elite players deliver big numbers, but injuries, load management, or a sudden dip in form can leave you scrambling for production. A smarter fantasy basketball strategy is to balance star power with depth — loading up on reliable mid-tier players who can anchor your roster when your top pick misses time.

2. Ignoring Category Balance

In head-to-head category leagues, it’s not enough to simply collect high scorers. If you draft without considering assists, steals, blocks, and efficiency, you’ll find yourself losing key matchups despite big point totals. Make sure your roster is well-rounded by targeting players who contribute across multiple categories.

3. Overlooking Injury History

Every season has its breakout stars — and its walking injury reports. Drafting high-risk players without a backup plan is a recipe for disaster. Check injury histories and factor in the likelihood of missed games before committing significant capital.

4. Forgetting the Playoff Schedule

One of the most overlooked NBA fantasy draft mistakes is ignoring your league’s playoff calendar. A player might average 25 points per game, but if his team has a light schedule during your fantasy playoffs, his impact could be minimal. Always look ahead and make sure your stars will be playing when it matters most.

5. Chasing Last Year’s Stats

Just because a player was a fantasy gem last season doesn’t mean history will repeat itself. Roster changes, new coaching systems, or role adjustments can dramatically shift a player’s production. Draft based on projected opportunity and fit, not just last year’s box scores.

6. Forgetting To Review League Settings

Many fantasy leagues simply use the default settings of their hosting platform — in which case, you may not need to review them annually. However, if your league has custom scoring, category changes, or unique roster rules, you can’t afford to skip this step. When you get that notification that your commissioner has adjusted the settings, don’t ignore it. Even small tweaks can drastically shift player value and your draft strategy.

7. Getting Too Attached to Players

It’s natural to want your favorite players or hometown heroes on your fantasy roster. Starting your season with one or two fan favorites isn’t a problem. However, don’t hesitate to make tough decisions when those players aren’t producing. Holding onto underperforming players simply because you like them can seriously jeopardize your chances of making the playoffs.

This advice especially applies to high draft picks. Just because a player was a first- or second-round selection doesn’t mean you have to keep them if they’re not delivering consistent fantasy value. Stay flexible and prioritize performance over sentiment to build a winning fantasy basketball team.

Final Takeaway: Win Before the Season Starts

Winning your NBA fantasy basketball league starts with avoiding these costly mistakes. By balancing your roster, paying attention to schedules, and thinking ahead, you’ll set yourself up for success long before the fantasy playoffs arrive.