Ian Martínez signs with NBA G League's Cleveland Charge

Costa Rican basketball player Ian Martínez has signed a contract with the Cleveland Charge for the 2026-2027 NBA G League season. This marks the first time a player from Costa Rica has secured a contract in the NBA's official development league.

The Cleveland Charge serves as the affiliate team for the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers. Martínez previously participated in the 2026 NBA Summer League with the Cavaliers organization, where he recorded 16 points, eight rebounds, and three assists across three appearances.

Before joining the Cleveland organization, Martínez played professionally in Israel and Austria with Oberwart, where he averaged 19.9 points per game. Sports experts note that while a G League contract does not guarantee an immediate move to the NBA, it places the player within the NBA ecosystem, providing direct exposure to scouts and professional organizations.