On April 18, 2026, the Georgia Bulldogs officially announced the signing of David Ugonna Ike, a 2.13-meter center hailing from the NBA Academy Africa. This player, who has shined in recent tournaments with remarkable performances, becomes the first commit of the Bulldogs' 2026 class and the third addition of the offseason. Ike, who previously played for Rivers Hoops in the Basketball Africa League, could step in to replace Somto Cyril, who is currently in the transfer portal. Despite these departures, the team retains a talented core featuring players such as Kanon Catchings and Blue Cain, while continuing to seek ways to bolster its roster with an experienced player.

The New York Liberty have confirmed contract extensions for three of their stars: Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Sabrina Ionescu, all members of the 2024 WNBA championship team. Stewart and Ionescu signed maximum three-year contracts, each worth $1.19 million per season, while Jones also signed a three-year deal, but at a lower salary. The players expressed their desire to stay in New York long-term, emphasizing the importance of building a competitive team and investing in the community. The continued presence of this trio has contributed to an impressive record of 70 wins and 16 losses when all three are on the court together.

WNBA training camps begin this Sunday, marking the start of the league’s 30th season, with 15 teams in preparation. Teams, including the Atlanta Dream and the Chicago Sky, are focusing on integrating new players, such as Angel Reese, who joins Atlanta after a trade from Chicago. The Connecticut Sun, in a period of transition ahead of their move to Houston, are relying on young talent, while the Las Vegas Aces, the defending champions, aim to maintain their dominance with their star-studded core. The regular season begins on May 8, with high stakes for all teams.

LaMelo Ball, the Hornets’ point guard, avoided a suspension after being penalized with a Flagrant 2 foul on Bam Adebayo during a play-in game against the Heat, where Charlotte won in overtime. Although Ball was fined $60,000 for the foul and for inappropriate comments in a postgame interview, he expressed relief that he did not cause a serious injury to Adebayo. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra called the play dangerous but agreed that Ball should not face additional punishment. Meanwhile, LaMelo Ball is focused on the upcoming game against the Magic, aiming to end the Hornets’ nine-year playoff drought.

Ezi Magbegor, a WNBA star, recently signed a three-year contract with the Seattle Storm worth an estimated AUD 1.8 million per year, making her one of the highest-paid Australian female athletes. After celebrating this major milestone with her family in Melbourne, she expressed gratitude for the support she has received throughout her career. Magbegor, who won a WNBA championship in 2020 and has competed in two Olympic Games, is now preparing for the new WNBA season starting May 9, while also looking ahead to the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in September. She is also excited about the return of her compatriot Jade Melbourne to the team and the growing opportunities for Australian players in the league.