Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)
April 2025, ahead of summer transfer window
Warns Man City could lose out on top transfer targets if they fail to qualify for Champions League
City currently sit 5th in the Premier League and are battling for a UCL spot, which Guardiola says heavily influences player decisions
Miller family (former Utah Jazz owners)
Announced April 2025
Acquired controlling interests in MLS side Real Salt Lake and NWSL team Utah Royals
Partnered with David Blitzer, who remains minority owner and second-largest shareholder. MLS and NWSL commissioners praised the move for strengthening soccer in the region.
Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth)
Targeted for summer 2025 transfer window
United are frontrunners to sign the 25-year-old forward, with manager Ruben Amorim planning to use him in a revamped attack. All top-six clubs except Arsenal have shown interest.
Bournemouth value Semenyo at £70m but may accept a structured deal with add-ons. United eye him as a replacement for likely departures of Sancho, Rashford, and Antony.
Gregg Popovich (San Antonio Spurs)
Incident occurred Tuesday night, April 16; update confirmed Friday, April 19
Popovich was hospitalized after a medical incident at a restaurant, later confirmed to be non-life-threatening. He’s now home and doing fine.
The 76-year-old, who previously suffered a mild stroke in November, was stretchered from the scene but alert. Despite health concerns, he has expressed intentions to return next season, with the Spurs allowing him time and space to decide.
Noa Essengue (Ratiopharm Ulm)
Declared April 19, 2025; NBA Draft set for June 25–26
Projected top-20 pick Essengue officially enters the 2025 NBA Draft. Ranked No. 17 by ESPN, he’s aiming to rise into the top 10.
The 6’10” forward impressed with elite defensive versatility, athleticism, and maturity in EuroCup and BBL play. At just 18, he’s already competed with France’s senior national team and is praised for guarding 1–5.
Rob Pelinka (Los Angeles Lakers)
Contract extension and title change announced April 19, 2025
Pelinka signs a multiyear extension and is promoted to president of basketball operations while retaining GM duties.
Pelinka has led the Lakers to four playoff appearances and an NBA title (2020) since joining in 2017. This season, he landed Luka Doncic in a blockbuster deal, positioning the franchise for long-term success.
Ja Morant (Memphis Grizzlies)
Injured April 16 vs. Warriors, game-time decision for April 18 vs. Mavericks
Suffered a right ankle injury after stepping on Buddy Hield’s foot. Despite finishing the game, swelling has limited his practice availability.
Receiving 24/7 treatment. Interim coach Tuomas Iisalo says Morant will push to play if physically capable. A decision will be made just before tipoff.
Damian Lillard (Milwaukee Bucks)
Diagnosed with DVT in March, cleared and off blood thinners by April 18
Lillard has been medically cleared of deep vein thrombosis and is no longer on medication. He will increase on-court activity but will not play in Game 1 vs. Indiana Pacers.
Early detection and expert care from Mayo Clinic specialists accelerated recovery. Bucks say this could have been career-threatening but are hopeful Lillard returns later in the playoffs.
Mat Ishbia (Phoenix Suns Owner)
April 2025, following Suns’ 36-46 season and missing playoffs
Ishbia called the 2024-25 campaign “embarrassing” and “a failure,” citing poor effort, no identity, and misaligned roster decisions. Coach Mike Budenholzer was fired, and further changes are expected.
Ishbia pledged to reshape the team culture around grit, passion, and work ethic. Devin Booker remains untouchable, while Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal’s futures are uncertain amid trade speculation. The Suns will now search for their fourth coach in four seasons.
Thomas Partey (Arsenal)
Contract expires end of 2024-25 season
Arteta confirms progress on talks for a possible contract extension for Partey amid interest from Atlético Madrid and Saudi clubs. The 31-year-old has returned to form after injury setbacks.
Sporting director Andrea Berta is handling negotiations. Despite suspension for PSG UCL semi first leg, Arteta says Partey remains part of Arsenal’s future plans.
