Alissa Pili, the former Dimond High School standout who once dazzled in college basketball, has signed a player development contract with the Los Angeles Sparks. The move marks a full‑circle moment for the Alaska native, who was originally drafted by the Minnesota Lynx in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
Pili made her Sparks debut on Wednesday, contributing four points, five rebounds and two assists in a limited role. Her performance offers a glimpse of the versatility she brings to the court and underscores the team’s intent to nurture emerging talent.
A New Chapter for Alaska’s Basketball Talent
Across the country, another Anchorage native is charting his own path. Daishen Nix, who grew up in the same city that produced Pili, has been invited to the 2026 NBA Summer League roster of the Houston Rockets. The Rockets announced his inclusion after he signed a minicamp agreement on July 3.
Nix’s participation will give him a chance to showcase his abilities against a pool of prospects ahead of the regular season. The summer league, scheduled for July 2026, serves as a critical proving ground for players on the fringe of NBA rosters.
Back in Alaska, the Anchorage Wolverines are gearing up for their 2026‑27 campaign. The team will open the season with a two‑game exhibition series against the U.S. National Under‑17 Team at Sullivan Arena on September 11‑12.
The Wolverines’ schedule also includes a matchup against the Springfield Jr. Blues on September 18, adding another layer of competition to their preseason slate. Fans can secure tickets for all home games beginning August 10, a date that promises strong community turnout.
These developments highlight a growing pipeline of talent emerging from Alaska’s basketball ecosystem. With former high‑school stars signing professional contracts and college teams preparing for high‑profile exhibitions, the state’s sports landscape appears poised for renewed excitement.