WSU Forward Emmanuel Ugbo Suspended for Rest of Season

Whitman County judge issues protection order against Ugbo following incident

Feb. 24, 2026 at 8:50am

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Washington State University men's basketball player Emmanuel Ugbo has been suspended for the remainder of the 2026 season following a court-issued protection order against him by a WSU volleyball player. Coach David Riley announced the suspension, stating it is the "best course of action" for the team and university.

Why it matters

This suspension is a significant blow to the WSU basketball team, which was counting on Ugbo's contributions this season. The protection order also raises concerns about player conduct and the university's response to off-court incidents involving student-athletes.

The details

Last week, a Whitman County judge issued a full protection order for a WSU volleyball player against Ugbo following an undisclosed incident. As a result, WSU head coach David Riley announced that Ugbo would be suspended for the rest of the 2026 season, stating the team believes "that's the best course of action."

  • On February 24, 2026, WSU coach David Riley announced Ugbo's suspension.
  • Last week, a Whitman County judge issued a full protection order against Ugbo.

The players

Emmanuel Ugbo

A forward on the Washington State University men's basketball team.

David Riley

The head coach of the Washington State University men's basketball team.

WSU volleyball player

A volleyball player at Washington State University who was granted a protection order against Ugbo.

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What they’re saying

“we believe that's the best course of action.”

— David Riley, Head Coach, Washington State University Men's Basketball

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether to extend the protection order against Ugbo at a hearing next month.

The takeaway

This suspension highlights the importance of addressing off-court conduct issues involving student-athletes and the university's responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all students on campus.