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An Alabama jury began hearing arguments in the first US state trial against TikTok and ByteDance over allegations that the platform fuels a teen mental health crisis. Filed by Republican Attorney General Steve Marshall, the lawsuit claims the platform is intentionally addictive, uses misleading safety marketing, and evades age restrictions. Similar litigation involves at least 27 other states and Washington, D.C. TikTok defends itself by citing Section 230 protections and emphasizing ongoing safety measures for minors. The trial in Montgomery state court is expected to last two to three weeks and could unveil heavily redacted internal company operations. This proceeding follows Meta's recent sweeping settlement with states over youth wellbeing. TikTok has previously settled other targeted trials, keeping much of its internal mechanics confidential. The outcome may set a precedent for thousands of ongoing individual and municipal lawsuits nationwide targeting major social media companies regarding adolescent mental health impacts.

Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti expressed strong confidence that his team will remain exceptional despite significant offseason roster changes. Following a 64-win season and a conference finals appearance, the franchise traded Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe, and Aaron Wiggins to drop below the restrictive second apron salary threshold. Presti noted the departures account for approximately 10,000 combined minutes, creating a different look for the squad. Even with the massive personnel shifts, the Thunder feature reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, returning 2025 All-Star Jalen Williams, and All-NBA center Chet Holmgren. The new-look roster is scheduled to begin the regular season on October 20 against the San Antonio Spurs. Presti emphasized that health will be the primary factor in determining whether the squad can reach its high ceiling by the end of the campaign.