The steering wheel is locked; the key was hard to enter into the key hole

I've had similar issues. If the steering wheel locks, sometimes the key is hard to get into the ignition and turn. Put the key in, try to turn the wheel hard to the left or right and turn the key at the same time.

The wheel should loosen and allow the key to be turned.

(I'm assuming this is your problem, I do not know for sure). I am not a professional, just someone who experienced this before.

Silly question, but is that the same key you have since you got the car? Spare keys or Vallet keys can give those problems, also, if you live near the beach or the dessert, believe it or not, sand can get in the tumblers and cause that sticking feeling. I normally try a little WD40 in the key hole, insert key back and forth, then move the steering wheel in a left to right motion while turning the key.