Player

The WNBA and its players' union made significant progress in labor negotiations, scheduling the next session for Friday after productive discussions on key issues. Players are pushing for improved salaries, health benefits, and pension plans amid the league's rapid growth. Union president Nneka Ogwumike stated, 'We're closer than ever to a fair deal that reflects our value.' The outcome could impact the 2026 season structure and free agency rules, with both sides expressing optimism for an agreement soon.

The Big 12 men's basketball tournament switched courts mid-event after a Texas Tech player suffered a serious ankle injury during a game, prompting safety concerns. Officials halted play and moved to a backup court to ensure player welfare. Texas Tech coach Mark Adams said, 'Safety comes first; we're praying for our player's recovery.' The change delayed semifinals by 45 minutes but allowed games to resume without further incidents, highlighting venue preparedness issues.

The WNBA and its players' union held 15 hours of advanced negotiations starting Thursday at 11 a.m. ET, making progress on core and peripheral issues without public updates from WNBPA Exec Dir Terri Jackson or Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. Talks, totaling nearly 40 hours this week, continued into pre-dawn Friday with increased urgency after the league's March 10 deadline passed, threatening the regular season start. Sources indicate Friday's session mirrors the momentum, as the league builds toward a pivotal moment. Players stand to secure a brighter future if a deal seals soon.

Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark ordered an unprecedented mid-tournament change to the playing surface at the men's basketball event after noticing increased court slippage during Texas Tech's loss to Iowa State on Thursday, where guard Christian Anderson was injured midway through the second half. Similar slips occurred in Houston's win over BYU the same day. The decision highlights Yormark's flexibility in addressing safety issues during the high-stakes conference tournament in Kansas City. This rare move in college athletics prioritizes player welfare as March Madness approaches, with no further disruptions reported yet.