Veteran journeyman Hicks signs with Leones in BSN return.

Isaiah Hicks, seen here during his time with the Capitanes of Arecibo, joins the Leones of Ponce after playing in South Korea. He boasts a solid career that includes an NCAA championship in 2017 with the University of North Carolina and NBA experience with the New York Knicks and Charlotte Hornets.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Leones of Ponce announced Tuesday the signing of veteran forward-center Isaiah Hicks as their third import player for the 2026 Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN by its initials in Spanish) season.

The 6-foot-9-inch Hicks joins the team after playing in South Korea and boasts a distinguished career. He was an NCAA champion in 2017 with the University of North Carolina and gained NBA experience with the New York Knicks and the Charlotte Hornets. Additionally, he was a member of Team USA between 2018 and 2019.

“The market for available players has been very difficult, and with the new rules -- allowing only six roster changes in total, including injury replacements -- we had to be patient and keep working to find the right player,” Leones General Manager Gabriel Ortiz said. “Fortunately, the opportunity with Hicks arose, and we were able to seize it, as he is a player who is currently in game shape and has already proven himself in the BSN.”

Internationally, Hicks has played in leagues in Russia, Japan and Korea -- including stints with teams such as Avtodor Saratov and the San-en NeoPhoenix -- in addition to his previous tenure with the Capitanes of Arecibo in the BSN.

Ponce’s management stressed that Hicks, 31, will bring strength, experience, and a commanding presence in the paint -- key elements for the team’s aspirations.

Following a road victory in Mayagüez, the Leones will play their home opener this Thursday against the Atléticos of San Germán at Ponce’s Juan “Pachín” Vicéns Auditorium.