Venus Williams, at 45, continues to dazzle as she kicks off 2026 with a spirited Auckland display in what was her 1,101st WTA singles match. A hard-fought three-set duel against a top-50 rival earns a standing ovation and hints at a compelling season ahead.

Deandre Ayton’s role in the Lakers’ frontcourt is under the microscope as a rising frontcourt dynamic collides with a standout night from Jaxson Hayes. With another Grizzlies showdown looming, the question now is whether Ayton can reclaim his rhythm and help the offense find its flow.

Jaylen Brown is delivering an MVP-caliber season for the Celtics, taking his game to new heights on offense while locking in on defense. As Boston navigates injuries and roster changes, his rise is reshaping the team’s ceiling and adding a compelling chapter to the East race.

Portland’s injury era has unearthed a new spark in Sidy Cissoko. The young guard brings relentless defense, fearless hustle, and a surprising three-point touch that’s turning heads. As his role grows, whispers loom about a potential contract upgrade and how Portland might reshape the roster to keep him around.

Sabalenka rides momentum into the Brisbane semifinals, chasing Grand Slam glory and a fresh take after last year’s final. Medvedev fights his way into the men’s semis, while Muchova delivers a notable upset to shake up the women’s draw. A season of dramatic turnarounds and big-title bids is just getting started.

Seasoned World No. 6 Jessica Pegula faces a fearless surge from Marta Kostyuk in Brisbane’s semifinal, with Pegula holding the edge in their series. Kostyuk has surged this week, threatening to upset the established order on the outdoor hard court. A clash of experience versus rising form awaits, promising a tightly contested duel.

With Austin Reaves headed toward unrestricted free agency, the Lakers’ title hopes may hinge on more than offense. Can his defense evolve quickly enough to complement a star-studded core, or will playoff matchup pressure reveal exploitable gaps? A closer look at the offseason moves and development bets ahead.

Sacramento is betting on a patient reset and a growing core, but a veteran presence could steer the timeline. DeMar DeRozan brings steady production, a favorable contract, and leadership that younger players can rally around. As the Kings weigh talent and long-term fit, this decision could define the franchise’s next chapter.

Kevin Durant just moved into seventh on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, passing Wilt Chamberlain in a moment that electrified the arena. At 37 years old and in his 18th season, Durant’s latest milestone adds another chapter to a career defined by extraordinary longevity and relentless work ethic.

With the February trade deadline approaching, the Warriors face a pivotal choice—add a rim‑protecting stretch big, a frontcourt scoring punch, or a steady ball‑handler behind Curry. The evolving play of Quinten Post could tilt the decision in an unexpected direction and redefine Golden State’s championship plan.

After a tough stretch and Josh Hart’s injury, the Knicks found a spark with a win over the Clippers. Jalen Brunson speaks candidly about the rough patch, while Guerschon Yabusele steps up when it matters. Can New York turn the lessons into a sustained run of strong play?