Frank Warren is clear that there will be a world title on the line in ‘s return, regardless of whether is standing in the opposite corner. The leading contender claimed his WBC ‘interim’ title in February 2025, when he climbed off the canvas to halt Zhilei Zhang with a vicious sixth-round body attack. Prior to […]

The post Frank Warren says Agit Kabayel will be in world title fight this September appeared first on Boxing News.

Jose Benavidez Sr, the father and trainer of , has insisted there is only one fighter who would offer his son a considerable challenge. The 29-year-old became a three-division world champion against Gilberto Ramirez, dethroning his former sparring partner with a sixth-round stoppage at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena. Beforehand, many felt their encounter was likely […]

The post Jose Benavidez Sr says just one man can test his son David Benavidez: “He’s the only guy” appeared first on Boxing News.

Fenerbahçe'nin 2021 seçimlerinde başkan adayı olan Eyüp Yeşilyurt hayatını kaybettiği öğrenildi.

5 yıl önce özellikle Fenerbahçe başkanlık sürecinde Ali Koç’a rakip olarak adı öne çıkan Eyüp Yeşilyurt’un hayatını kaybettiği ortaya çıktı. 1970 İstanbul doğumlu olan Eyüp Yeşilyurt, Fenerbahçe’de 2021 yılında yapılacak seçimler öncesinde başkanlığa aday olduğunu duyurmuştu. Ancak yeterli imzayı toplayamadığı için resmi aday olarak seçime katılamamıştı.

FENERBAHÇE'DEN AÇIKLAMA

Fenerbahçe Kulübü'nden konuya dair şu açıklama geldi:

-Kulübümüzün 13445 sicil numaralı üyesi Eyüp Yeşilyurt vefat etmiştir.

Merhumun cenazesi 4 Mayıs Pazartesi günü (Bugün) ikindi namazını müteakip Yakacık Ulu Camii'nden kaldırılacaktır.

Eyüp Yeşilyurt’a Allah’tan rahmet, yakınlarına başsağlığı dileriz.

Sezon sonunda sözleşmesi bitecek olan milli futbolcu Zeki Çelik'in Roma'dan ayrılmasına kesin gözüyle bakılıyordu. Türkiye'den Galatasaray ve Fenerbahçe'nin de yakından takip ettiği Zeki Çelik için Roma bütün planlarını değiştirdi.

Galatasaray, Roma'yla mukavelesi sezon sonunda bitecek olan Zeki Çelik'le ilgileniyordu. Fenerbahçe'de hem Nelson Semedo hem de Mert Müldür de yaşanan belirsizlik nedeniyle gündemine Zeki Çelik'i almıştı. Ancak milli futbolcu da durumlar tersine döndü.

ROMA VAZGEÇMİYOR

Fichajes'de yer alan habere göre, Gian Piero Gasperini, Serie A'nın devlerinden biri olan AS Roma'da uzun vadeli kadrosunu şekillendirmek istiyor. Nitekim, teknik direktör , yaz transfer döneminin kilit isimlerinden biri olabilecek Zeki Çelik'in performansından oldukça memnun.

Sağ bek oyuncusunun geleceği önemli bir konu, bu yüzden yaz transfer döneminde serbest oyuncu olarak ayrılmasını engellemek için ellerinden gelen her şeyi yapacaklar. Yine aynı habere göre, Türk oyuncunun menajeriyle sözleşmesini uzatmak için görüşmelere yeniden başladılar.

Sezonun bitmesine kısa bir süre kala yeni sezon için hazırlıklarına başlayan Galatasaray ve Fenerbahçe aynı ismi gündemine almıştı. Milan'dan ayrılmak üzere olan Rafael Leao için harekete geçen iki Süper Lig devinin bu transferde işi oldukça zor.

Taraftarlar ve teknik heyetle sorunlar yaşayan Rafael Leao'nun sezon sonunda Milan ile yollarını ayırması bekleniyor. 26 yaşındaki futbolcu için Galatasaray'ın devrede olduğu bilinirken Fenerbahçe'nin de bu transfer içi nabız yokladığı öğrenildi.

PREMIER LİG KULÜPLERİ KAPIDA

Fichajes'de yer alan habere göre ise, Premier Lig kulüpleri, özellikle de Leao için harekete geçmeye hazır olan Manchester United oyuncu için oldukça sabırsız. Öte yandan hem Chelsea hem de Arsenal, yaz transfer döneminde forvet oyuncusunu kadrolarına katmak istiyor. AC Milan, kanat oyuncusu için teklifleri beklerken , Premier Lig kulüpleri Portekizli yıldız için ciddi bir teklif yapmayı düşünüyor.

BARCELONA DA MASADA

Ayrıca, Barcelona'dan da hamle geldiği öğrenildi. La Liga temsilcisinin oyuncu cephesiyle temas kurduğu ortaya çıktı. Kısa süre içinde de Milan'la masaya oturmaları bekleniyor.

Ziraat Türkiye Kupası'nda Beşiktaş-TÜMOSAN Konyaspor maçının hakemi belli oldu.

Ziraat Türkiye Kupası yarı finalinde yarın oynanacak Beşiktaş-TÜMOSAN Konyaspor maçını Adnan Deniz Kayatepe yönetecek.

Tüpraş Stadı'nda 20.30'da başlayacak karşılaşmada Kayatepe'nin yardımcılıklarını Mehmet Kısal ve Kerem Ersoy yapacak. Müsabakanın dördüncü hakemi ise Reşat Onur Coşkunses olacak.

Beşiktaş geçen sezonu Solskjaer ile 4. basamakta tamamlamıştı. Sergen Yalçın önderliğindeki takım da bu sezonu 4. sırada bitirecek. Kartal'daki bu tablo aslında bazı acı gerçekleri anlatıyor.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, 19 Ocak 2025 tarihinde Beşiktaş'ın başına geçmişti. 28 Ağustos 2025'te ise görevine son verildi. Norveçli teknik adamın önderliğindeki Kartal, geride bıraktığımız sezonu 4. sırada tamamlamıştı. Solskjaer'in ardından göreve gelen Sergen Yalçın'dan beklentiler büyüktü.

HATALI HAMLELER

Yalçın'ın çalıştırdığı Kartal da bu sezonu matematiksel olarak 4. basamakta bitirmeyi garantiledi. Yani sıralama bakımından hiçbir şey değişmedi. Burada teknik adamlardan çok farklı sıkıntılar bulunduğu görülüyor. Özellikle transferlerde yapılan hatalı hamlelerin bedeli çok ağır oldu.

NEYE İHTİYAÇLARI VAR?

Beşiktaş'ta öncelikli takviye gereken bölgeler vardı. Ancak farklı mevkilere monteler geldi. Aynı tarzdaki birçok futbolcu, kadroya eklendi. Yapılan yüksek sözleşmeler, takım içindeki huzursuzluklar vb birçok problem baş gösterdi. Önümüzdeki sezon da hedef şampiyonluk. Fakat bu kez Kartal'ın hata şansı sıfır...

Kaleci arayan Beşiktaş, devre arasında da gündemine gelen Gabriel Brazao konusunda tekrar harekete geçti. Santos Kulübü'yle kısa süre içinde masaya oturulacağı öğrenildi.

Kartal'ın kış transfer dönemindeki kaleci adaylarından biri Santos forması giyen Gabriel Brazao'ydu... Brezilya ekibiyle bonservis konusunda anlaşma sağlanamayınca geri adım atıldı. Ancak Siyah-Beyazlılar'ın kısa süre içinde tekrar harekete geçeceği öğrenildi.

15 MİLYONLUK BEKLENTİ

Brezilyalı eldivenin Santos Kulübü'yle 31 Aralık 2028 tarihine kadar mukavelesi bulunuyor. 25 yaşındaki oyuncunun, Beşiktaş seçeneğine sıcak baktığı öğrenildi. 1.92 boyundaki file bekçisi için 15 milyon euroluk bonservis beklentisi olduğu konuşuluyor. Siyah-Beyazlılar rakamı indirmek için pazarlık yapacak.

SENELERCE SIKINTI ÇEKMEZ

2024'ün Şubat ayında Inter'den bedelsiz şekilde Santos'a katılan Gabriel Brazao, ülkesinde yeniden çıkışa geçmişti. Beşiktaş resmi imzayı attırabilirse, senelerce kalede problem yaşamayabilir. Çünkü Brazao 25 yaşında ve bu yaş, bir kaleci için "genç" kabul ediliyor.

Liverpool, yeni sözleşme görüşmeleri yaptığı Curtis Jones ile anlaşma sağlayamadı. İngiliz orta saha oyuncusunun yaz döneminde satılması bekleniyor. Galatasaray'ın da hamlede bulunabileceği öğrenildi.

Liverpool altyapısından çıkan Curtis Jones'un mukavelesi 30 Haziran 2027 tarihinde tamamlanacak. Bir süredir taraflar arasında yeni sözleşme konusunda görüşmeler sürüyordu. Ancak hiçbir ilerleme sağlanamadı. Daha yüksek bir maaş bekleyen İngiliz futbolcunun yazın satılması bekleniyor.

3 TAKIM DEVREDE

Eğer Curtis Jones takımda kalırsa, önümüzdeki sezonun ardından boşa çıkabilecek. 25 yaşındaki merkez orta saha oyuncusuyla Inter, Borussia Dortmund ve RB Leipzig gibi takımlar ilgileniyor. Ancak Galatasaray'ın da pazarlık masasına oturabileceği öğrenildi.

YÜKSEK PARA ÇEKİLEMEYECEK

Curtis Jones'un tahmini piyasa değeri 35 milyon euro civarında... Fakat mukavelesi önümüzdeki sezonun ardından tamamlanacağı için Liverpool'un yüksek bir bonservis talep etme şansı bulunmuyor. Galatasaray'ın da bu kozu kullanmak istediği belirtildi. Oyuncunun istediği maaş konusunda da sıkıntı çıkması beklenmiyor. Önümüzdeki haftalarda konuyla ilgili çok sürpriz gelişmeler yaşanabilir.

“Bavariya” yeni mövsüm üçün ev formasını təqdim edib.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “Adidas” tərəfindən hazırlanan dəstlər ənənəvi olaraq, qırmızı rəngdədir.

“Bavariya” mayın 6-da, Çempionlar Liqasında yarımfinal mərhələsində PSJ-yə qarşı keçirəcəyi ev oyununda yeni formalardan istifadə edəcək.

Komandalar arasındakı ilk matçda Paris klubu qələbə qazanıb – 5:4.

Braziliyanın “Santos” klubunun məşqində futbolçular Neymarla Robinyo Junior arasında mübahisə yaranıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə “Globo” nəşri məlumat yayıb.

34 yaşlı Neymar 18 yaşlı Robinyonun onu aldatmasından narazı qalıb və bunu hörmətsizlik kimi qəbul edib. O, həmkarından xahiş edərək, onun daha sakit oynamasını bildirib. Bundan sonra tərəflər arasında mübahisə böyüyüb və dava düşüb. Neymar Robinyonun əvvəlcə üzünə vurub, sonra onu yerə yıxıb.

Gənc oyunçunun nümayəndələri Neymarın davranışından kluba şikayət edib. Lakin “Santos” rəsmilərindən hələlik açıqlama verilməyib. Daha sonra tərəflər barışıb və Neymar bazada gənc futbolçudan üzr istəyib.

Robinyo Junior braziliyalı keçmiş futbolçu Robinyonun oğludur.

“Mançester Yunayted” İngiltərə Premyer Liqasının XXXV turunda “Liverpul”u məğlub edib – 3:2.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “qırmızı şeytanlar” qələbə ilə xallarını 64-ə çatdırıb və altıncı pillədəki “Bornmut”u 12 xal qabaqlayıb.

“Mançester Yunayted” liqada sona üç tur qalmış Çempionlar Liqasına vəsiqəni təmin edib.

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Italy legend Fulvio Collovati insists that seeing the Azzurri replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup would be ‘humiliating.’

Italy have failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time, but there are reports that the Azzurri could still be heading to the tournament to replace Iran, especially after Paolo Zampolli’s recent claims.

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“Some people pushed these ideas more on a political level than a sporting one. Honestly, I never even considered them,” Collovati told Scommesse.io.

Collovati: ‘Humiliating’ to see Italy at World Cup

“It would be humiliating from a sporting perspective. In sport, what matters is the field and the result. You can’t get there through shortcuts. Italy have not qualified for the last three World Cups, and that’s no coincidence. It can happen once, even twice, but the third time means there are serious problems. Before those three missed qualifications, we had been knocked out in the first round twice in a row. It’s a crisis that has lasted for 20 years, since 2006. Before thinking about being admitted to the World Cup, we need to think about reforms.

“You can change all the people you want, but without reforms, nothing will change,” continued the 1982 Italy World Cup winner.

“We need to intervene in youth development, invest in young players, and require clubs to include them in the squads and actually play them in Serie A. Otherwise, we’ll keep standing still in the same place.”

• Read more – Italy’s presence at the 2026 World Cup would be wrong, but not surprising

Inter star Federico Dimarco admits the 2025-26 Serie A title ‘means so much’ after last season’s disappointments and dedicates the Scudetto to ‘those who said I was finished.’

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Inter are celebrating the 21st Scudetto in their history, the second in the last three years.

Dimarco: ‘Special to see Milan coloured in black and blue’

It’s the first Scudetto for Cristian Chivu, who has become the first foreign coach to win the Serie A title since José Mourinho in 2010.

Dimarco has been one of the standout performers this season, having contributed to 25 goals across all competitions.

“It’s an amazing feeling. To see Milan coloured in black and blue is special,” the Italian defender told InterTV via FcInter1908.

“It tastes like a restart after the bad disappointments of last season. We have restarted with the team and staff members. We have worked hard and crowned the dream of the 21st Scudetto.

“We are a united team, and we were united in difficult moments too, when we were being beaten from every direction. We always showed up, and now we enjoy this title. It means so much after what happened last year. I dedicate it to all the people who are close to me, especially those who said I was finished at the end of last season.”

Dimarco was among the Inter stars who headed to Piazza Duomo at late light on Sunday to celebrate with the Inter supporters in the city’s main square.

Inter have won the Scudetto with three games to spare, securing 26 victories in 35 league matches this term.

Last night, they needed just one point to put their hands on the Scudetto, but still secured a 2-0 victory with goals courtesy of Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

• Read more – Live: Inter win 21st Serie A title – reactions, pictures videos

Dimarco et Zanetti sont les premiers à mener la fête de l’Inter sur la Piazza Duomo avec les Tifosi pic.twitter.com/FxHjoRHZSX

— Inter Milan Internazionale.fr (@SoloInter) May 4, 2026

Recent reports suggest that Paulo Dybala will switch from Roma to Boca Juniors in the summer, which means La Joya will be one of the stars to watch in the Superclasico against River Plate in 2026-27.

Dybala’s Roma contract expires at the end of the season, and it is no secret that the Argentine star, a 2022 World Cup winner, is attracted by the idea of playing for Boca Juniors one day.

His possible move to the Bombonera will likely have a big impact on Bet on Superclasico, as Dybala has been one of the best players in Serie A and across Europe in the last decade.

The exciting attacker has scored 131 goals in 366 Serie A matches playing for Palermo, Juventus and Roma in Italy’s top flight.

His latest season at the Stadio Olimpico has been marred by injuries, limiting him to just 23 appearances across all competitions and three goals.

Nevertheless, Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini is reportedly willing to keep the Argentine at the Stadio Olimpico for at least one more season, prompting the club to offer him a new deal.

Dybala joined Roma on a free transfer from Juventus in the summer of 2022 and has scored 45 goals in 136 games with the Giallorossi.

Gasperini has often praised Dybala in the current campaign, especially in the first half, when the Argentine was deployed as a false nine before Donyell Malen’s move from Aston Villa.

“Playing as an attacking midfielder can become complicated when he has his physical troubles, as we’ve unfortunately discovered over this period,” Gasp said at the end of December 2025.

“I’ve always hoped to have him and have counted on him, because the value of our team increases when he is in that position. The whole attack benefits.

“It’s difficult to come across another player of (Dybala’s) quality. If he has problems, there aren’t really any like-for-like replacements.  

“If [Evan] Ferguson wants to take a step forward, remembering that he is 21 years old and still very young, he has to improve not on his technical level, but on that hunger, desire, understanding where he plays and how to make the most out of his weapons.”

Dybala has recently admitted that he’d love to play for Boca Juniors in the future, where he’d reunite with his friend and former teammate Leandro Paredes.

“It would be fantastic,” he said (via SportMediaset).

“Today I play for Roma, and I have to defend this shirt, but you never know what might happen.”

Dybala has only played at the club level in Argentina and Italy, rising through the Instituto Atlético Central Córdoba academy before joining Palermo in 2012.

Tijjani Reijnders could be on the move again just a year after arriving at Manchester City, with fresh reports suggesting the Dutch midfielder may be open to leaving in the coming weeks.

According to Football Insider, several clubs, particularly from Serie A, are monitoring his situation closely, with Juventus among the sides showing interest.

The potential exit comes as a surprise considering the expectations surrounding his move from AC Milan last summer, a deal believed to be worth around €55 million.

At the time, Reijnders was seen as a versatile addition to Pep Guardiola’s midfield options, capable of contributing both creatively and defensively.

However, football at the highest level can be unpredictable, and his situation at City appears to have shifted quickly.

Reijnders has struggled at Man City this season

Reijnders initially looked like he would settle seamlessly into life in the Premier League.

He made an immediate impact, scoring and assisting on his debut, a performance that raised hopes he could become a regular figure in Guardiola’s system.

His ability to carry the ball forward, link play, and contribute in advanced areas made him a valuable option in midfield rotations.

However, as the season progressed, his role began to diminish. Increased competition for places, a common challenge at Man City, has limited his opportunities in recent months.

Guardiola’s squad is known for its depth and tactical flexibility, often leaving even high-quality players fighting for consistent minutes.

For Reijnders, this has meant adapting to a more rotational role than initially expected.

Reijnders offers qualities that many teams value, composure in possession, intelligent movement, and the ability to transition play from midfield to attack.

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Serie A clubs are taking notice of his potential availability

These attributes have not gone unnoticed, particularly in Italy, where he previously thrived with AC Milan.

Juventus’ interest shows that they are looking to strengthe their midfield options with technically sound players who can control tempo and contribute creatively.

Other Serie A clubs are also believed to be monitoring the situation, sensing an opportunity to sign a player who has plenty to offer at the top level.

For Man City, any decision regarding Reijnders will likely depend on squad balance and long-term planning.

The club has a history of making calculated decisions when it comes to player sales, especially if it allows them to reinvest in areas of need. Financially, recouping a significant portion of the initial transfer fee could make a deal more appealing.

Huge bid: Man City ready big money summer move for midfielder wanted by Man United

The post Reduction in playing time could lead to shock exit of Man City star who joined last year appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool and Arsenal could be involved in a transfer battle this summer to sign one of the most wanted attackers in world football.

Bradley Barcola could be one of the more intriguing names to watch this summer, with Liverpool and Arsenal both reportedly keeping close tabs on the Paris Saint-Germain forward.

According to TEAMtalk, there are early signs that the 23-year-old’s camp is exploring potential opportunities, even though his contract in Paris still runs until 2028.

While PSG are not actively pushing him out, the situation appears fluid and that has alerted several top clubs.

With both Liverpool and Arsenal looking to strengthen their attacking options ahead of next season, Barcola’s profile makes him an attractive target if he becomes available.

Barcola is drawing interest from Liverpool and Arsenal

Barcola has quietly put together a solid campaign, registering 12 goals and seven assists across all competitions.

Those numbers reflect a player who is growing into his role at one of Europe’s biggest clubs, even if he isn’t always the headline name in PSG’s star-studded attack.

What makes Barcola particularly appealing is his versatility. Comfortable playing on either wing, he combines pace with direct dribbling and a willingness to take on defenders, qualities that are highly valued in the Premier League.

Liverpool’s interest is closely linked to long-term planning in their attack. With ongoing uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future, the club is believed to be assessing potential replacements who can grow into a leading role.

Barcola’s age and skill set fit that profile, offering both immediate contribution and long-term development potential.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are continuing to build depth in their forward line. Mikel Arteta has emphasized the need for rotation and competition across attacking positions, especially with the club competing on multiple fronts.

More Stories / Latest News

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May 4 2026, 11:22

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May 4 2026, 11:12

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May 4 2026, 10:08

Winger’s future depends on PSG’s stance

Adding a player like Barcola would provide flexibility, allowing Arsenal to rotate without a drop in quality.

PSG’s stance remains key to how this situation develops. Reports suggest the club are constantly evaluating their squad structure, particularly as they balance experienced stars with emerging talent.

If Barcola feels his role could be limited or if PSG receive a strong offer, the door to a transfer could open.

If the Ligue 1 giants decide to listen to offers, this could quickly turn into a competitive transfer race and one that might shape the attacking options of two Premier League giants heading into next season.

Neville praises ‘top-class’ Arsenal player who was on top of his game against Fulham

The post Report: Liverpool & Arsenal on alert as 19 G/A attacker could soon become available appeared first on CaughtOffside.

If there were any lingering doubts about Arsenal’s title credentials, Saturday night at the Emirates Stadium firmly put them to bed.

Mikel Arteta’s squad delivered an absolute masterclass, completely dismantling Fulham in a dominant 3-0 victory.

The win was a massive statement, keeping the Gunners right at the summit of the Premier League with 76 points and establishing a crucial six-point gap over a relentless Manchester City side.

While striker Viktor Gyökeres secured an impressive brace with goals on either side of the half-time break, it was Bukayo Saka’s fine strike that truly captured everyone’s attention.

The sheer quality of Saka’s performance certainly didn’t go unnoticed.

Gary Neville praises Arsenal star Bukayo Saka

Speaking on on NBC Sports, Manchester United legend Gary Neville was quick to dish out the plaudits.

While Neville has occasionally been critical of Arsenal’s attacking fluidity this season, he couldn’t help but rave about the winger’s top-class impact and backed the team for Premier League glory.

He said: “They looked like they had a little bit of something back with Saka on that right-hand side. Madueke’s a very good player, but Saka’s top-class. It was a very day for Arsenal. They have got to wait and watch Manchester City.”

Neville observed that while Arteta will naturally be thrilled with the comfortable three points, the demanding manager might actually be slightly frustrated that they didn’t score even more to pad their crucial goal difference.

“He will be pleased with the victory and must remind the players to capitalize on their opportunities and be clinical and ruthless,” Neville said.

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Gunners are looking to end their title drought

For Arsenal fans, the stakes are almost unbearably high.

It has been an agonising 22 years since the club last lifted the Premier League trophy, and they are desperate to avoid the heartbreak of finishing as runners-up for a third consecutive season.

The pressure is now firmly shifted back onto Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, who currently hold two games in hand to close that daunting six-point gap.

Their first test is a tricky Monday night trip to Everton.

With Gyökeres banging in the goals and Saka terrorising fullbacks on the right wing, the Gunners possess all the necessary firepower to cross the finish line.

‘Might leave..’ – Ex-player names Arsenal star destined for summer exit

The post Neville praises ‘top-class’ Arsenal player who was on top of his game against Fulham appeared first on CaughtOffside.

In what was certainly a thrilling encounter at Old Trafford on Sunday, Manchester United booked a crucial victory over arch-rivals Liverpool. The Red Devils were 2-0 up within the opening 15 minutes, but Liverpool head coach Arne Slot believes the second goal should’ve been ruled out for handball. The ball did appear to graze Benjamin […]

The post Liverpool boss Arne Slot unhappy with Benjamin Sesko goal being allowed in defeat to Manchester United (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Liverpool boss Arne Slot unhappy with Benjamin Sesko goal being allowed in defeat to Manchester United (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

First-half goals from Conor Gallagher and Richarlison were enough for relegation-threatened Tottenham Hotspur to emerge victorious against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday, despite Emiliano Buendia pulling one back for the hosts deep in second-half stoppage time. Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi, however, insists his team’s triumph was no miracle. Roberto De Zerbi says […]

The post Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi not surprised by victory over Aston Villa (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi not surprised by victory over Aston Villa (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

OGC Nice has been officially up for sale for several months, with figures at the club repeatedly confirming the status of the club. However, the directors have been scarce on details, failing to provide an update on the progress of the club’s sale, which is being managed by Lazard. However, Nice-Matin have provided details of a prospective buyer. 

Since purchasing a minority share in Manchester United, INEOS’ attention has turned firmly away from Nice. Investment in the club has been minimal in recent months as they look to find a buyer. Nice-Matin now understands that there are two interested parties, one from the USA and one from Europe. The former have even visited the club’s facilities alongside Jean-Claude Blanc.

INEOS initially sought to sell Le Gym for €200m, having bought them for €100m back in 2019. Recouping such a fee looks highly improbable, but before a fee can be agreed upon, the club must first secure their place in Ligue 1 for next season, given the bearing that will have on the valuation. Currently, Le Gym are three points ahead of AJ Auxerre, who occupy the relegation play-off place. The pair face each other in Auxerre next weekend – a potentially momentus game for Nice’s future.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Four races into Formula 1's new era and the peak of electrical power's influence on the sport may already be in the rearview mirror.

The Miami Grand Prix was the first under changes which slightly limited the role of the electrical power which has redefined racing this year. The president of the governing body, the FIA, said in Miami he wants traditional V8 engines back in a few years' time.

F1 started the year with some of the biggest changes in its 76-year history, headlined by a 50-50 split in power between a traditional engine and the onboard battery pack.

There were only three Grand Prix races under those new rules before a package of tweaks was introduced which curbed the influence of the electrical power. They answered driver criticism by promoting pure driving skill over electrical recharging, especially in qualifying. Discussions on further changes for 2027 could continue that trend.

Sunday's race in Miami was one of the most wide-open in recent F1 history with drivers from four different teams leading before Kimi Antonelli took his third win of 2026 for Mercedes.

V8 engines would take F1 back to the future

When FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem first proposed a return to big, noisy traditional engines last year, some F1 figures thought it was an election tactic, and it fizzled out in a meeting with manufacturers.

Now with Ben Sulayem in office for another term, and following a backlash to electrical power from some key drivers and fans, his push for V8 engines by 2030 or 2031 seems much more serious. The F1 world typically plans out new regulations years ahead of time.

“You get the sound, you get less complexity and then you’ve got the lighter weight, you hit all the boxes,” Ben Sulayem said Saturday in Miami. “You will hear about it very soon and it will be with a very, very minor electrification, but the main one will be the engine.”

F1 has used V6 engines with electrical hybrid power since 2014 and a big step up in the amount of electrical power for this year has made it central to how drivers go racing. Timing the electrical boost and recharging is the key to tactical racing. Four-time champion Max Verstappen loathes it so much he's questioned his future in F1.

A return to bigger V8 engines would be a nostalgia trip for older drivers and fans, with a distinctive screaming engine noise. They're relatively rare in modern vehicles outside of expensive sportscars.

Using sustainably-sourced fuel, as F1 does already from this season, would be one concession to environmental goals.

FIA says automakers can't take sport ‘hostage’

There's a lot of politics behind the decisions on F1's future, from the White House to the racing paddock.

Electrical vehicles no longer seem as certain to dominate the roads in key F1 markets as they did when the FIA and teams began drawing up the regulations in the early 2020s.

The Trump administration has put tighter rules on the charger network that electric vehicles depend on, and the European Union is rethinking a planned ban on new internal combustion-powered cars from 2035.

“The political landscape has changed,” the FIA's top F1 regulations official Nikolas Tombazis told reporters last week. “Back when we discussed the current regulations, the automotive companies, who were very involved, told us that they’re never going to make another internal combustion engine again, a new one, that they were going to phase out and by whatever year they were going to be fully electrical. Obviously, this hasn’t happened.”

Ben Sulayem said the FIA would need engine manufacturers' agreement to push for V8 engines for 2030, ahead of the agreed five-year schedule for the current cars, but would be more free to act without their agreement for 2031.

The F1 world has long appealed to automakers by promising innovation relevant to their road cars but now the FIA seems less keen for F1 cars to resemble daily drivers. The boom in F1's popularity around the world over the last decade could give it more leverage.

“We do need to protect the sport from the world macroeconomic situation, meaning we cannot be hostage to automotive companies deciding to be part of our sport or not,” Tombazis said.

“We want them to be a part of our sport, absolutely. That’s why we’ve worked so hard to secure new ones to participate. But we can also not be in this position where if they decide they don’t want to be, we’re simply left vulnerable.”

___

Alanis Thames in Miami Gardens, Fla., contributed to this report.

___

AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing

After identifying roles for each of the Indianapolis Colts' eight draft picks, let's discuss the level of overall impact that each player could have this season.

So from No. 8 to No. 1, let's rank the level of impact we expect each of these Colts' rookies to have in 2026.

8. RB Seth McGowan

McGowan will be competing with DJ Giddens for the RB2 role. Given Giddens' experience, I'll give him the advantage for the time being, which would then make McGowan the third running back on the depth chart.

T6. DE George Gumbs Jr. and DE Caden Curry

My guess is that both players see the bulk of their playing time come on special teams, and that is where their greatest impact will come from.

5. LB Bryce Boettcher

Boettcher should have the opportunity to compete for snaps with Akeem Davis-Gaither, but in the early going, I will again defer to experience, expecting Davis-Gaither to be one of the starters at linebacker. Boettcher, however, could be the first option off the bench.

4. WR Deion Burks

Burks could have the opportunity to carve out a role in the return game, and even if he doesn't beat out Ashton Dulin and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine for the WR3 role, I could see Shane Steichen wanting to rotate him in on fairly regular basis.

3. OL Jalen Farmer

Farmer could be a backup, or he could end up starting at right guard or possibly even right tackle. GM Chris Ballard believes he can play both positions, potentially creating a competition with either Matt Goncalves or Jalen Travis. If Farmer ends up as a backup, he will likely be first off the bench at a position group that, league-wide, navigates a high attrition rate.

2. S AJ Haulcy

Haulcy will be competing for the starting role next to Cam Bynum. If he can earn those snaps, he brings added versatility and ball skills to the secondary, providing Lou Anarumo with additional flexibility as he builds out his game plans.

1. LB CJ Allen

Allen is the projected starting MIKE linebacker. In this role, he could be the signal caller for the entire defense and will fill a do-it-all role. At what was the Colts' biggest position of need going into the draft, the opportunity to provide a huge impact very much exists.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Which Colts' rookies will have greatest impact?

The Philadelphia Eagles completed their 2026 NFL draft, making slight overhauls to Sean Mannion's unit by adding five talented, versatile offensive players to the roster. The first two picks are future stars and likely 2025 starters, while all five players offer elite skill sets and the potential to develop into critical starters. Further signifying a change is coming at wide receiver, Philadelphia traded up to add Makai Lemon, all but officially signaling the end of the A.J. Brown era.

In all, the Birds made eight selections and three trades – including one that netted a Pro Bowl-caliber outside linebacker, Jonathan Greenard.

With the rookie minicamp complete, we're looking at a full breakdown of the Eagles' 2026 draft class, highlighting the best pick, top value, ideal scheme fit, and the most puzzling selection.

Best bang for buck

Cole Payton, QB, North Dakota State

Consensus rank: 127

Pick number: 178

Difference:+51

A player who, according to some experts, might be a potential third or fourth round pick. Payton fell into the Eagles' lap, highlighting the value Philadelphia had to secure. Payton brings athleticism, mobility, and a versatile skill set that could fit well within the Eagles' new offensive system under first-year coordinator Sean Mannion. With the Bison, he showed the ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground, giving him potential value as a multi-dimensional quarterback at the next level.

The eyebrow-raiser

3d-68: Markel Bell, T, Miami

The Eagles aren't known to reach, but landed the giant offensive tackle 48 spots higher than expected. Bell brings size, length, and developmental upside to a unit that has long been the foundation of Philadelphia's roster-building philosophy, but has seen a change with Sean Mannion as offensive coordinator and Jeff Stoutland out as offensive line coach. Bell allowed zero sacks in 558 pass pro snaps for Markel Bell in 2025.

Best scheme fit

Makai Lemon, WR, Southern Cal

Considered one of the top pass catchers in the draft, Lemon was the third wide receiver selected and went eight picks later than he was ranked. Lemon is a gritty running back who plays receiver and utilizes his 5-11, 192-pound frame to dominate in yards after catch. His positional versatility will allow Lemon to mesh well with DeVonta Smith, Dontayvion Wicks, and Hollywood Brown.

Day 3 pick who is most likely to start

Cole Wisniewski, S, Texas Tech

A talented, but stiff safety who could replicate Reed Blankenship's rise, Wisniewski fell into the Eagles' lap late in round seven. Wisniewski was named one of 15 semifinalists for the Comeback Player of the Year award after missing the entire 2024 season. He became a key player in the Red Raider defense, playing safety and starting all 14 games during his only season at Texas Tech. He finished as the third-leading tackler on the team with 78 total tackles (38 solo), leading all defensive backs and trailing only linebackers Jacob Rodriguez (128) and Ben Roberts (90). Wisniewski was one of four Red Raiders to record 70 or more tackles, marking a first for the team since 2015.

Best draft day phone call

Uar Bernard, DT, Nigeria

Grade: B+

A 300+ pound defensive player who can run faster than running backs, the International Pathway Program pick was scooped up by Philadelphia in the seventh round when most prognosticators didn't have him on draft boards.

When Howie Roseman called Nigerian DT Uar Bernard before the Eagles drafted him...

Uar said: "I'm gonna have to walk there."

Howie said: "You don't have to walk, we're going to get you a flight."

Incredible.#Eaglespic.twitter.com/3NaAwkF2Hl

— Chase Senior (@Chase_Senior) April 27, 2026

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles NFL draft analysis: Best value, scheme fit, head-scratcher

Borussia Dortmund are closing in on a new contract for Samuele Inácio until 2030 or even 2031, according to several reports.

It was previously reported that Inácio’s current contract runs until 2027 and that Dortmund were looking to fend off interest in the youngster by extending it.

However, Bild now claims that Inácio’s current contract actually runs until 2029, stating that it was automatically converted into a professional three-year deal when he turned 18 on April 2.

That does not mean Dortmund are no longer keen to secure his long-term future, but it does put the club in a stronger negotiating position and under less immediate pressure.

The young Italian attacker has started the last two Bundesliga matches for the Black and Yellows.

ESPN has named Georgia Bulldogs tight end Ethan Barbour as an under the radar player for the 2026 campaign. At 6-foot-3, 235 pounds, Barbour will look to bounce back this season following a brutal ankle injury just three games into his freshman year. 

Barbour is an athletic tight end that could play a big role on the Dawgs’ offense next year. Georgia lost a plethora of playmakers to both the NFL draft and transfer portal this offseason, as Barbour now finds himself in prime position for an increased workload in 2026. The tight end flashed his potential on numerous occasions in his freshman campaign in 2025, but Barbour suffered a broken ankle just three games into the season causing him to miss the rest of the year. Barbour is a good blocker and actually earned a start before getting injured.

Barbour was ranked as the No. 9 tight end and the No. 169 recruit from the class of 2025, per the 247Sports Composite Rankings. He was ranked as the No. 21 player in Georgia.

Barbour is expected enter 2026 fully healthy and has the talent to shine in Athens next season. Barbour is an elite blocker in addition to his pass catching abilities, and the former four-star recruit will look to make a name for himself this season following an unfortunate start in 2025. 

Barbour did return for Georgia's Sugar Bowl last season and has been healthy this spring. He saw a lot of targets in the spring game, but will have to compete with a stacked tight end group for playing time.

Georgia will enter the 2026 campaign with one of the deepest tight end rooms in college football. The Dawgs currently have Lawson Luckie, Jaden Reddell and Elyiss Williams at the position in addition to Barbour, as each player could dominate in the Bulldogs’ offense next year. 

This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: ESPN names tight end as overlooked Georgia football player

LAVAL, Que., — It took just one loss in the opening game of the Montreal Victoire’s first-round series against the Minnesota Frost for the questions to begin.

The Victoire got to select their opponent for the first round of the PWHL playoffs by virtue of winning the PWHL’s regular-season title. And rather than face the No. 4-seeded Ottawa Charge, Montreal made the bold move to play the two-time defending champion Minnesota Frost.

After the game, a chaotic 5-4 overtime victory for Minnesota, Montreal head coach Kori Cheverie was asked if she had any regrets about the team’s decision. It would be easy to start second-guessing, particularly after a dominant first period by the Frost or each time Minnesota thwarted a Montreal comeback before a Laura Stacey goal could even be fully announced by the public-address announcer to a thunderous applause.

Not for Cheverie, though, who responded to the question with a resounding “no.”

That, too, is easy enough to understand. Cheverie admitted the team didn’t really play its game until the third period — where Montreal outshot (12-7) and outscored (2-1) Minnesota to force overtime. But despite a shaky start, the Victoire managed to score four goals in a playoff game for the first time in the team’s three postseason berths. Montreal also allowed five goals against for the first time all season after an uncharacteristic performance by star goalie Ann-Renée Desbiens, who has never been scored on five times in a single game over 70 career starts — across the regular season and playoffs — in the PWHL.

Desbiens set records for wins (19), save percentage (.955) and goals-against average (1.11) in a single season this season. It’s a fairly safe bet that Desbiens returns to form — that alone could be a difference-maker for the Victoire.

“I believe in this group more than anything,” said Stacey postgame, echoing her coach’s confidence. “The resilience we showed today, nothing fazed us … I’m very impressed by that locker room, (and) I’m excited for Game 2.”

You also have to credit Minnesota, though, which flipped the switch just as we all expected. In four regular-season games against Montreal, the Frost scored just three of their league-leading 91 goals. They nearly doubled that in a single game on Saturday, getting contributions from their stars (Kendall Coyne Schofield) and unlikely heroes; Defender Sidney Morin scored her first goal of the season to give Minnesota a 4-3 lead 48 seconds after Stacey tied things up. Jincy Roese — who played just 4:43 in the entire playoffs last year for the Ottawa Charge — scored the overtime winner, which was also her first goal of the season.

We’ll know in a week if Montreal ultimately made a mistake taking on the Frost.

What we can say now, though, is Minnesota’s performance on Saturday was an immediate reminder of how quickly things can change in the playoffs. The game in its totality — fast-paced, back-and-forth and in front of a deafening crowd of more than 9,000 fans — was another example of how incredible playoff hockey in the PWHL can be.

Playoff history in Montreal

From the goals to the celebrations, there was nobody in the entire league more electric than Stacey on Saturday.

After falling behind two goals in the first period, Stacey dragged the Victoire into the battle. At first, it was with the kind of relentless work ethic fans have come to expect from Stacey. Then came the first hat trick in the PWHL playoffs.

“She brings it every game. We all know it. You’re never worried about the effort Stace will bring to the ice,” said teammate Abby Roque, who assisted on two of Stacey’s goals in her first career playoff game. “She (plays) every game (at) 110 percent, and I think in playoff hockey those players get to shine and you saw that today.”

In the second period, Stacey jammed in a wraparound on Maddie Rooney to tie the game 2-2. She scored twice more in the third period — on an incredible shot, then with some clean up in front of the net — to force overtime.

“Stace was able to put us on her back at times and figure out a way to put the puck across the line, and you appreciate a player like that, you appreciate someone who works so hard and plays the right way,” said Cheverie. “She’s a great leader for us, and it would have been nice to get the win with that kind of performance.”

A three-goal performance is a great sign for Stacey — and the Victoire — who had struggled in previous playoff series to find the back of the net consistently. In 2024 and 2025, Stacey only had one goal on 45 shots over seven playoff games. For a player like Stacey — who is sixth all-time in career goals (28) and points (62) — the dam was bound to break eventually.

“That’s a good start for her,” Cheverie said. “The series is young, so hopefully that continues.”

The goalie battle

While Game 1 between Montreal and Minnesota was a nine-goal track meet, the series between Ottawa and the Boston Charge has, predictably, been more of a goalie battle.

Gwyneth Philips (Ottawa) and Aerin Frankel (Boston) have won one game each and have allowed fewer goals in two games (seven) than just one between Montreal and Minnesota. Game 1 in Montreal was the second-highest scoring PWHL playoff game, with nine goals between the two teams.

Frankel wasn’t tested all that much in Game 1 on Thursday, needing to make just 17 saves on 18 shots as Alina Müller and Jessie Eldridge earned most of the spotlight. In Game 2, however, Philips stole the show, making 30 saves in Ottawa’s 3-1 victory to even the series that heads to the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa on May 8.

“Gwyn had a great game and helped us work our way through our moments,” Ottawa coach Carla MacLeod said Saturday night.

Boston came out flying in the first period, putting 14 shots on Philips, who made a number of massive saves to help Ottawa weather the early storm. After Ronja Savolainen opened the scoring, and Russian rookie Fanuza Kadirova doubled the lead, Philips shut the door, making timely saves to lead her team from start to finish.

“That’s my job,” Philips said. “Make the saves.”

Philips is no stranger to a big-time performance in the postseason. She had an outstanding .952 save percentage last year and was named playoff MVP, despite Minnesota winning the final series in four games. With 56 saves on 59 shots (a .949 save percentage) through two games, Philips is picking up right where she left off.

After the game on Saturday, Boston Fleet head coach Kris Sparre said, “If you play the game that we played tonight 10 times, you should win it eight or nine times.”

Saturday night, of course, was the exception to the rule. Thanks to Philips.

Welcome to the playoffs, Jessie Eldridge

It took 84 regular-season games in the PWHL for Eldridge to finally suit up in the postseason.

Eldridge, who was traded to Boston from Seattle this season, spent her first two PWHL seasons playing for the New York Sirens, which finished last in the league standings both years. Still, Eldridge had established herself as one of the most productive forwards in the league’s short history, sitting in the top 10 in all-time goals (30) and points (61).

Since joining the Fleet in March, Eldridge has been highly productive once again, scoring seven goals and 10 points in the final seven games of the regular season. That — along with her seamless chemistry with Müller — has carried over to the postseason already. On Thursday, in her playoff debut, Eldridge had the primary assist on both Boston goals and did well to create space for her linemates.

“(It was) worth the three-year wait, that’s for sure,” Eldridge said on the PWHL’s “Jocks in Jills” podcast after the game. “That was a lot of fun.”

Eldridge and Müller have combined for five points and 20 shots on goal already in the series. It’s worth singling Müller out here, too. Her three points in two games are tied for the early lead in playoff scoring. She also leads all forwards in faceoff wins (35) and has an impressive 68.6 percent faceoff win rate.

A physical start

Physicality ramped up quickly this week with 29 penalties called already — including two majors and at least one suspension — through just three games. While there have been some stick infractions and delay-of-game calls, a lot of penalties have been physical infractions with six roughing calls, two illegal body checks and two illegal checks to the head, and a post-whistle dust-up that landed Roque with a black eye not long into her long-awaited playoff debut.

Rylind MacKinnon (Boston) and Britta Curl-Salemme (Minnesota) were each given a major penalty and a game misconduct for making head contact. MacKinnon served a one-game suspension for her hit on Ottawa’s Gabbie Hughes. There has been no announcement from the league’s player safety committee yet on Curl-Salemme. But as a repeat offender — with three suspensions in her rookie year and a fine for crosschecking this year — she will likely face supplemental discipline.

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

Minnesota Frost, Montreal Victoire, Ottawa Charge, Boston Fleet, NHL, Women's Hockey

2026 The Athletic Media Company

The WNBA is just days away, so there’s still time. Enough of it for fans who love this league to swoop in and save the conversation. Enough of it for fans who love this league to swoop in and save the conversation.

Across certain corners of the internet, the complexity of WNBA games is condensed into highlights, bite-sized and devoid of context. Any small and forgettable moment caught on camera, a cutaway shot shown on a national broadcast, can live on as a GIF. And fan bases will reveal their big, big feelings about lists and rankings, and mistakenly view even the game’s biggest allies as “haters.”

Where it’s most accessible for people to gather for sharing their fervor, opinions and drivel, the WNBA discourse needs help. Because right now, the conversation sounds too much like the NBA’s.

While those of us who try to live in a world outside of algorithms, we are fully aware that social media — and in particular, Elon’s echo chamber — is not a real place. Even so, that app amplifies so much racket that it can’t possibly be ignored. The conversations sports fans are having in real life? For better or worse, they’re shaped by the day’s trending topics.

So, judging by the engagement over the past week, with the WNBA preseason schedule underway, the conversation seemed to be curated by the kind of fan who prefers their most cynical and angry desires to be served with a side of hoops.

A clip of Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese “cooking” one of her former Chicago Sky teammates racked up more than 2 million views. Then again, the anti-Reese sentiment was equally as strong; a separate post that mocked her shooting stats from that April 29 exhibition game generated just as much engagement. But at least Reese went viral by performing in that game, unlike Sky guard DiJonai Carrington, who was featured in a clip while sitting on the sideline, tossing her hair and scratching her face. The video, ripped from the game’s broadcast and posted without a caption, got more than 500,000 views because someone, somewhere, considered it content.

Pure basketball did indeed find an audience, such as a supercut of Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers scoring 20 points against the Indiana Fever, or the graphic about the SECOND-YEAR Golden State Valkyries’ estimation as the highest-valued WNBA franchise. However, those posts didn’t take off nearly as much as a screenshot of Seattle Storm rookie Flau’jae Johnson that intentionally captured her in a bizarre pose before her preseason debut.

More and more, the basic overshadows the basketball, and sophomoric reigns supreme. If any of this feels familiar, then you must be a long-suffering NBA fan.

That league has its own conversation issues. If social media is not breaking down Kevin Durant’s body language as though it’s game film, and analyzing Tyrese Haliburton’s double chin for the sole purpose of getting off “Haliburger” jokes, then it’s obsessing over highlight dunks and hot takes. Thankfully, for the NBA fan who wants just a little bit of analysis, the league’s 11-year media rights deals have kicked in at the right time.

The deal, which began at the start of the 2025-26 season, does more than pump $77 billion into the league’s pockets. It opened the door for two new broadcast partners, NBC Universal and Amazon Prime Video, to expand and elevate the conversation around basketball. Now, there’s more nuance, and not just noise, coming out of halftime studio shows. While the biggest mouths still go viral, former players who actually talk about the game can also land with audiences, like in October when Udonis Haslem broke down how the New York Knicks protect their defensively targeted star, Jalen Brunson, in “pre-switch” actions.

Similarly, the WNBA can move to the grown folks’ table this season as games stretch across more broadcast partners, like ION, Turner, and, of course, ESPN. But it’s up to the fans, new and old, to stop treating fair criticism directed at their favorite players as a reason to revolt.

Throughout the league’s 30 years, coverage of the WNBA largely came from those who championed the cause. The story was told by media that took the league seriously when elsewhere it had been disregarded as a niche. Then, a few years ago, everyone seemingly started watching women’s sports, and more mainstream exposure followed, as well as more critical coverage. Last year, former player Candace Parker had the audacity to appraise Reese’s game. Parker ranked Reese in a lower tier that made sense to everyone who has watched Reese’s game — everyone except Reese’s most extreme fans. And so Candace Parker, the two-time league MVP and three-time champion, that Candace Parker, caught the wrath of a segment of Reese stans.

“We have to come to a place in women’s basketball where we can critique without being labeled a hater,” Parker said, reacting to the backlash on her podcast. “And I challenge all of you to understand that in no way, shape or form am I a hater.”

Speaking of haters, RIP to the mentions of those ESPN writers who dared to list Caitlin Clark as the No. 10 player currently in the WNBA. When the rankings came out last week, the most passionate and protective in Clark’s fan base dismissed the analysis as clickbait, completely ignoring how their fave had played only 13 games last season and spent the majority of the time in a massive shooting slump.

This is the current state of social media — a place that not too long ago felt like the best virtual sports bar, where fans from all over the world could take in the games together. Now, toxicity has become the ticket to get in. It doesn’t have to be that way in the WNBA space.

Fans don’t have to be so quickly aggrieved by analysts, nor so easily entertained by the lowest of the low-hanging fruit. They can ignore the agitators who come around just to trivialize the game and the women who play it, and engage more with the content that centers around basketball. Ahead of what will be the WNBA’s most-watched and most-dissected season, true fans can rescue the discussion from all the dross. They’re the guardians who can keep their league from becoming NBA lite.

Editor’s note: The Athletic is launching a new weekly women’s basketball newsletter. Sign up here for No Offseason to keep up to speed with everything in the sport. 

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

Chicago Sky, WNBA, Opinion, women's sports

2026 The Athletic Media Company

Let’s go back 30 years.

The WNBA’s first season had no salary cap and players received as little as $15,000 to play. The best players topped out around $50,000, even as stars in 1997 became household names — Cynthia Cooper, Lisa Leslie, Rebecca Lobo, Sheryl Swoopes.

Excitement was there, but skepticism abounded. How long would the league exist? Would people watch? Was this a novelty? Would interest eventually wear off? How could it sustain itself financially?

Even a few years ago, naysayers were still asking these questions. Now, those doubts seem antiquated. Women’s basketball — and women’s sports as a whole — is an undeniable booming business.

Especially as the WNBA’s exponential growth in recent years spiked again with an unprecedented collective bargaining agreement this offseason. Players’ salaries are topping $1 million for the first time, and the average salary will be nearly $600,000. Let this sink in: Top individual player salaries this season are worth more than the entire salary cap for individual teams before 2023.

This windfall comes as the WNBA is broadcasting all its games this season, and NCAA women’s basketball continues to set viewership records.

As women’s basketball fandom continues to expand, The Athletic is also staying ahead of the curve. We know fans have a deep appetite for the sport, and we are dedicated to delivering with our incomparable, comprehensive coverage.

Women’s basketball has never been dull, but now, the news cycle churns year-round. Front-office moves, free-agency chaos, eye-catching trades and league expansion in the pros; NIL deals, transfer moves and the coaching carousel in colleges. We’re on it.

There’s no offseason for players, and there’s no offseason for our women’s basketball team at The Athletic.

We’re also bringing big additions. Joining our national writers Chantel Jennings and Sabreena Merchant, Annie Costabile is the newest member of our reporting group. Based in New York, Costabile is known for breaking news and for her sharp analysis of the sport.

That trio, along with hosts Zena Keita and Layshia Clarendon, will offer their takes on our podcast, No Offseason, which drops on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. You can also hang out with them on YouTube and social media.

Want more? We’ve got you. Starting this week, our free No Offseason newsletter will appear directly in your inbox every Tuesday, as Merchant and Costabile keep you up to speed.

We aren’t just bringing you news and results. We’re creating a No Offseason community — and we want you to be part of it. Who knows what the next 30 years will bring?

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

WNBA, Sports Business, Women's College Basketball

2026 The Athletic Media Company

NHL playoffs schedule 2026: Full bracket, dates, times, TV channels, live streams for road to Stanley Cup originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Hockey fans, the Stanley Cup Playoffs are officially here. The 2026 version might be as good as ever, with a bracket that feels as wide open as any in recent memory.

Sixteen teams have the same quest: to take home Lord Stanley's Cup. Only one will emerge victorious and etch its name into NHL history. The landscape has shifted dramatically this year, as for the first time in a decade, the defending champions will not be in the dance, as the Florida Panthers failed to qualify following their 2025 title run. That leaves the door wide open for the Colorado Avalanche, who enter the postseason as Presidents' Trophy winners, and the Vegas Golden Knights, who look to recapture their 2023 magic under the late-season guidance of John Tortorella.

BUY NOW: Get tickets to the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs on StubHub

The storylines are everywhere you look. Connor McDavid is coming off another staggering 130-point season, desperate to finally bring a Cup back to Edmonton. Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference features a nostalgic "Battle of Pennsylvania" between the Penguins and Flyers.

Then, of course, there's the Buffalo Sabres, who finally shattered the longest playoff drought in NHL history by storming into the postseason as Atlantic Division champions. After 14 years on the outside looking in, Lindy Ruff’s squad has transformed from a December basement-dweller into a legitimate threat to go the distance.

From the breakout Sabres winning the Atlantic to the Utah Mammoth making their postseason debut, the stage is set for a wild ride. Here is the full schedule for every series of the 2026 NHL Playoffs.

NHL playoffs schedule, scores 2026

Second Round

Hurricanes vs. Flyers - Carolina leads 1-0

* If necessary

Sabres vs. Canadiens

* If necessary

Avalanche vs. Wild - Colorado leads 1-0

* If necessary

Golden Knights vs. Ducks

* If necessary

First Round

Sabres vs. Bruins - Buffalo wins 4-2

Lightning vs. Canadiens - Montreal wins 4-3

Hurricanes vs. Senators - Carolina wins 4-0

Penguins vs. Flyers - Philadelphia wins 4-2

Avalanche vs. Kings - Colorado wins 4-0

Stars vs. Wild - Minnesota wins 4-2

Golden Knights vs. Mammoth - Vegas wins 4-2

Oilers vs. Ducks - Anaheim wins 4-2

Where to watch NHL playoffs 2026

• TV channel: Sportsnet channels, CBC (English) | TVA Sports (French)
• Live stream: Sportsnet+

NHL playoff games will be broadcast across various Sportsnet channels with select games also airing on the CBC. TVA Sports will carry French-language broadcasts. 

Fans can stream the games either on Sportsnet+. 

NHL playoffs bracket 2026

Click here for the 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs bracket, updated live as series are completed.

SN

How will the 2026 NHL playoffs work?

The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs follow a divisional bracket system where 16 teams — eight from each conference —compete in four rounds of best-of-seven series. The top three teams in each of the league's four divisions qualify automatically, while the final four spots are awarded to the two wild card teams in each conference with the highest remaining point totals.

In the opening round, the division winner with the best record in their conference faces the wild card with the fewest points, while the other division winner plays the wild card with the higher point total. The remaining first-round series feature the second- and third-place teams from each division facing off against one another.

Every series follows a 2–2–1–1–1 format, meaning the higher-seeded team hosts Games 1, 2, 5, and 7. Home-ice advantage is determined by division seeding in the first two rounds and moves to the team with the better regular-season record for the Conference Finals and the Stanley Cup Final.

Postseason hockey also introduces continuous 20-minute, five-on-five overtime periods where the first goal scored ends the game, as there are no shootouts in the playoffs.

How many teams make the NHL playoffs?

Sixteen teams make the Stanley Cup Playoffs, eight from both the Eastern and Western Conference. This includes the top three teams in all four divisions — Atlantic, Metropolitan, Pacific, Central — and four wild card teams, two from each conference.

How many rounds are in the NHL playoffs?

There are four rounds in the NHL playoffs, each consisting of a best-of-seven series. To win the Stanley Cup, a team must advance through the First Round, the Second Round (Division Finals), and the Conference Finals, before finally winning the Stanley Cup Final.

Because every round requires four victories to advance, a champion must win a total of 16 games over the course of the postseason.

How many games are in a series?

All series in the Stanley Cup playoffs follow a seven-game format.

The matchups are played in a 2–2–1–1–1 format, where the team with home-ice advantage hosts Games 1, 2, 5, and 7, while the lower seed hosts Games 3, 4, and 6. This structure remains consistent from the opening series through the Final, ensuring that the team with the better regular-season standing always has the opportunity to host a potential Game 7 in front of their home crowd.

Related Links

• Latest NHL news and rumours
• Full NHL schedule, scores for 2025-26

When the 2026 WNBA season tips off on Friday, May 8, teams start separating themselves into competitive tiers.

In 2025, the Las Vegas Aces finished one of the greatest title runs in league history. With .500 record at the All-Star break, Las Vegas rattled off 16 straight wins to get to the postseason. The Aces then survived two down-to-the-wire playoff matchups with the Seattle Storm and Indiana Fever to reach the Finals, where they later swept the Phoenix Mercury.

That sort of grit and determination places the Aces on a different level than many franchises and, for the 2026 season, automatically places them in the championship contender tier once again. Who else has a chance to win a title this season? Which teams have more work to do?

From contenders to rebuilding, here's where each franchise lands in USA TODAY's tiers ahead of the season tip off. (Each tier has teams listed in alphabetical order.):

Tier 1: Championship contenders

• Atlanta Dream: While Atlanta lost center Brittney Griner to free agency, it returned four of five starters, a major victory for a team pushing to surpass a franchise-best 30 wins achieved last season. The Dream also returned the leader of its bench unit, Sixth Player of the Year Naz Hillmon, and added two-time All-Star Angel Reese via trade. If Atlanta can find a combination of players who can contribute to its bench, it could make the Finals for the first time since 2013.
• Indiana Fever: The Fever's title hopes start and end with the health of Caitlin Clark, who played 13 games last season because of series of soft tissue injuries. Indiana still made it within one game of the WNBA Finals but ran out of steam as injuries took their toll with the season on the line. Clark is healthy now and, with help from Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston, Indiana is poised to make a deep run again and potentially win the franchise's second title.
• Las Vegas Aces: After winning three championships in four years, the Aces want to rewrite history this season. "Hunger is still prevalent with this group, just because we're chasing something that hasn't been done before. I don't think anybody's ever went back-to-back twice (on) two different occasions," Aces point guard Chelsea Gray said. Vegas likely has the best chance of any team to win another title after bringing back eight players from its 2025 championship roster and adding pieces like guard Chennedy Carter.
• New York Liberty: The Liberty didn't look like themselves last season largely because of injuries. New York was bounced from the first round of the playoffs, a shocking development for the 2024 champions. The Liberty's core ― Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart ― are back, and they've added three-time WNBA All-Star Satou Sabally to the lineup. Sabally instantly elevates New York's profile on both ends of the floor, making New York an early candidate to win another title.

Tier 2: Playoff locks

• Golden State Valkyries: In 2025, the Valkyries became the first expansion franchise in WNBA history to make the playoffs, and with newcomer Gabby Williams in the fold, Golden State could make the postseason again. Williams is a lightning rod on both sides of the floor and could be a nightmare to defend beside stars Veronica Burton and Kayla Thornton. Furthermore, should Golden State deploy a similar version of its top-five ranked defense from last season, it will be in a position to surpass its 23 wins and potentially secure a top playoff seed.
• Los Angeles Sparks: The Sparks have so much experience and veteran leadership, it's hard not to pencil them in for a playoff run. Kelsey Plum, Dearica Hamby, Ariel Atkins and Nneka Ogwumike have collectively won five titles, and that goes a long way for a team looking to win more. The Sparks feel like a team that could play spoiler when the postseason arrives. The key for L.A. will be getting the most out of its bench, led by former No. 2 overall pick Cameron Brink and veteran guard Erica Wheeler.
• Minnesota Lynx: The Lynx won't see Napheesa Collier before June, leaving it up in the air how successful the team might be in the first half of the season. Minnesota also lost starters Bridget Carleton and Alanna Smith plus bench pieces Natisha Hiedeman and Jessica Shepard in free agency. The Lynx still have Kayla McBride, Courtney Williams and newcomer Natasha Howard to help keep them afloat, but the team's ceiling beyond making the playoffs is unknown.
• Phoenix Mercury: The Phoenix Mercury made it to the WNBA Finals last season behind the strength of its core ― Kahleah Copper, Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas ― and a productive bench. After one season, Sabally moved on to New York, leaving Phoenix to replace her production by committee. Phoenix will likely make the playoffs, but without Sabally, another WNBA Finals run is a tall task.

Tier 3: Playoff hopefuls

• Chicago Sky: For the third consecutive season, the Sky's roster doesn't look similar to the one in the year prior, making it hard to establish consistency. Still, Chicago has plenty of experienced players who can help it be competitive, including newcomers Skylar Diggins, Rickea Jackson and DiJonai Carrington, plus Courtney Vandersloot and Azurá Stevens, who were on the 2021 championship team.
• Dallas Wings: With a first-year WNBA head coach and multiple new faces in Dallas, the Wings hope to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2023. Dallas' ceiling is extremely high on paper, backed by its guard trio, which includes No. 1 draft pick Azzi Fudd, and an upgraded front court, featuring co-Defensive Player of the Year Alanna Smith.

Tier 4: Building or rebuilding

• Connecticut Sun: It's hard to gauge just how good the Sun will be with a move to Houston next season on the horizon and only four players on the roster with more than five years of experience. With veteran center Brittney Griner serving as a mentor, the Sun will learn and have fun even if reaching the playoffs may is out of reach.
• Portland Fire: The Fire chasing the Valkyries' expansion team standards set last year: 20 wins and a playoff spot. That's a gigantic goal for a new franchise, but players like Bridget Carleton (26 playoff games) and WNBA champion Megan Gustafson (16 playoff games) can help Portland's young roster understand its possible.
• Seattle Storm: The Storm lost four out of its five starters from last season and multiple bench players. However, Seattle can lean on All-Star Ezi Magbegor and WNBA champion Stefanie Dolson to help guide its young roster. With first-round picks Awa Fam, Flau'jae Johnson and Taina Mair also in the mix, the Storm can work towards forming their new identity.
• Toronto Tempo: The Tempo's offense promises to be exciting with head coach Sandy Brondello, who spent the past four seasons with New York Liberty. Brondello helped the Liberty become a top-five offense in three of her four seasons and could bring that same successful formula to Toronto. The Tempo will need it as they assimilate into the league.
• Washington Mystics: With an average roster age of 23 years old, there's a full youth movement in Washington. Still, the Mystics have two All-Stars − Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron − leading the way. Center Shakira Austin is also an underrated piece that could help the team's continued rise.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: From dynasties to rebuilds, the WNBA’s 2026 tiers take shape

We asked for your thoughts after Sunday's Premier League game between Manchester United and Liverpool.

Here are some of your comments:

Man Utd fans

Carl: Sometimes you cannot fathom why players do the things they do and the mistakes they make. What is always pleasing is when they react positively and make amends. Well done to the management team and a special mention to Kobbie Mainoo and his team-mates. What was a poor season has become a good one with Champions League qualification.

Neil: In the past few games, why has Lammens fallen into playing out from the back? It was one of his strengths when he came in that he kept it simple with long balls, unlike the calamity Onana. Another lucky escape after Brentford. I'm sorry, but Michael Carrick is living on borrowed time. Julian Nagelsmann is my choice.

Mark: That 20-minute period early in the second half just shows how close the performance of the current United and the United from last season are. It's a thin line between success and failure for us at the moment, and we're just falling on the right side. We need cool, calm heads in the midfielders we bring in.

Simon: Great man-of-the-match performance from Kobbie, particularly in the first half, breaking up Liverpool's play with interceptions and tackles based on great positioning. The goal was his reward. Mainoo is nailed on for England.

Liverpool fans

Wiz: Regardless of injuries, we are papering over cracks all the time with Arne Slot. Boring, slow, predictable and passionless. It clearly doesn't work in the Premier League. He won it last year with the last of Klopp's team and has now dismantled it totally. There is no identity at all. Slot has still got to go, or it'll be another 30 years before another trophy.

Kieran: Liverpool's problems this season are many in all areas of the field. Their biggest problem is the correct recruitment. No alternatives to Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate. No cover for Conor Bradley at right-back. Florian Wirtz has been a major disappointment, and he is not suited to the physicality of the Premier League. Missing out on Marc Guehi was the club's biggest mistake. Alexander Isak and Jeremie Frimpong should not have been bought. Sporting director Richard Hughes is the real problem!

Mez: Very poor overall. They were gifted two goals early in the second half, but they never looked like winning it. Slow play, no identity, no bite up front, all over the place defensively and, more importantly, no midfield. Even if Slot keeps his job beyond this summer, I think he will be sacked within weeks of the new season.

Dax: If it wasn't for United's mistakes we could have been hammered. It's not that Slot doesn't have a clue, it's that the team just aren't playing with any kind of passion... except for Rio Ngumoha and Dominik Szoboszlai. The counter-attack is non-existent or too slow, the passing lacks any kind of purpose and nobody seems to want to close down opponents. All too frequently, we are allowing opponents to form an attack safe in the knowledge that we'll give them the space to do it. We need to show teams the kind of pressing we were so good at and be ready for the break. I don't think Slot is at fault here. It's the players.

No. 7 Texas A&M (35-11, 15-6 SEC) avoided what would have been the Aggies' first sweep of the season after defeating No. 8 Auburn 4-3 on Sunday afternoon, salvaging a Game 3 victory that was absolutely vital to keeping pace in the SEC standings. However, the Georgia Bulldogs continue to look like the best team in the conference after sweeping last-place Missouri this weekend.

While losing both games in Saturday's doubleheader certainly wasn't the plan for coach Mike Earley and his veteran roster, who nearly pulled off a win in Game 2 if Chris Hacopian's hit to left field had stayed fair, ending in a groundout that secured the series for the visitors.

Still, after a solid start against Florida last weekend, junior Weston Moss took the mound with confidence and produced his best outing of the season, lasting six innings with six strikeouts and just one hit and one earned run allowed.

This performance should result in coach Mike Earley and pitching coach Jason Kelley making changes to the starting lineup, potentially making Aiden Sims the Friday starter, moving Moss to Saturday, and optioning struggling Shane Sdao for Sundays.

Texas A&M's offense has continued to produce when needed, and thanks to Chris Hacopian's three-run home run in the bottom of the sixth, providing just enough of a cushion to allow steady closer Clayton Freshcorn room to struggle early before forcing a groundout double play to ice the game in the ninth.

With the win, Texas A&M remains in second place in the updated SEC standings, but is now 2.5 games back from first behind Georgia, who are now a near lock to take home the regular season title.

Updated SEC Standings

1. Georgia (38-11, 18-6 SEC)
2. Texas A&M (35-10, 15-6 SEC)
3. Texas (35-10, 15-6 SEC)
4. Auburn (32-14, 14-10 SEC)
5. Mississippi State (36-12, 14-10 SEC)
6. Alabama (32-16, 13-11 SEC)
7. Florida (31-17, 13-11 SEC)
8. Arkansas (32-17, 13-11 SEC)
9. Ole Miss (32-17, 12-12 SEC)
10. Oklahoma (30-16, 12-12 SEC)
11. Kentucky (29-15, 11-13 SEC)
12. Tennessee (30-17, 10-13 SEC)
13. Vanderbilt (27-22, 10-14 SEC)
14. LSU (28-21, 9-15 SEC)
15. South Carolina (22-27, 7-17 SEC)
16. Missouri (21-26, 4-20 SEC)

Texas A&M will host Prairie View A&M on Tuesday, May 5, at 6:00 p.m.

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M stays in the race for first in updated SEC standings

A lot of people walked away from the Kentucky Derby with empty pockets, but not Trent Noah. His premonition may have led to a big payday.

I’ve been to Churchill Downs, and I know a lot of people may disagree, but I much prefer a nice day over at Keeneland. Not to take anything away from the legendary track, it’s definitely something you will want to do once. But I would say a safe number of you reading this took a bet slip out from the Derby, and if you did win, the payouts were insane.

Golden Tempo, a 23-1 longshot, ran down the field and paid out $48.24 for a win ($2 bet). If you predicted the top 2 finishers (exacta), you netted a nice $278.86 payday.

For the top 3 horses right (trifecta), you were paid $5,625.39. And if you were somehow lucky enough to pick the top 4 finishers (superfecta), $94,489.95.

And one Kentucky Wildcat showed off his Kentucky heritage. Before the Derby gates sprang open, some Kentucky basketball players put their predictions out there.

Trent Noah picked Golden Tempo, and the 3-year-old bay colt came through. Tempo showed off his legendary dad’s (Curlin) stamina to help Cherie DeVaux become the first female trainer to ever win the Kentucky Derby.

What a race it was as Tempo charged late on the outside after falling behind early. Maybe Noah’s good luck will continue into the season as the junior looks to make his mark in Lexington.

What did you think of the Derby?

Out of work since leaving Southampton earlier this season, Will Still could make a return to management and a return for France this summer.

There will be a job opening at FC Lorient at the end of the season. Olivier Pantaloni will leave the club upon the expiry of his contract, as he has already publicly confirmed. Les Merlus, who have exceeded expectations upon their return to Ligue 1 this season, are already curating a shortlist of potential replacements. 

As per a report from L’Équipe, Still, who has previously managed Stade de Reims and RC Lens in Ligue 1, tops the shortlist. And the Anglo-Belgian manager would seemingly be open to such a move. 

Speaking on Ligue 1 Plus on Sunday, Still said that he had “no idea” whether his next job would be back in France’s top flight. However, he added, “I hope so. It would be great, but I don’t hold the keys to my future. It will depend on a few things. I haven’t closed the door to anything, so time will tell.”

Still refused to speak about the rumours linking him with the Lorient position, instead highlighting the good work done by Pantaloni. “For now, there is absolutely nothing concrete or signed or anything like that,” added the former Southampton manager.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

The National League Central has been baseball's best division, a fact that seems straight out of the upside down. The Chicago Cubs have been the division's bully, a development that seems long overdue.

The Cubs have been on an early-season rampage, winning 14 of their last 17 games, dominating their Wrigley Field stomping grounds and soaring to No. 4 in USA TODAY Sports' power rankings.

At 22-12, the Cubs have the second-best record in the NL, yet they're just two games ahead of the 20-14 Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals. All five Central clubs are at least three games over .500, on the strength of a combined 44-28 record in interleague play.

And the Cubs improved to 14-5 at Wrigley by sweeping a decent Arizona Diamondbacks team, capped by a wind-swept 8-4 victory in which rookie Moisés Ballesteros hit a go-ahead homer. Next up: A four-game Wrigley showdown against the Reds.

A look at our updated rankings:

1. Los Angeles Dodgers (-)

• Blake Snell nearing return, creating a 17-man rotation (estimated).

2. Atlanta Braves (+1)

• Ronald Acuña Jr.'s hamstring injury might slow the joyride a bit.

3. New York Yankees (-1)

• José Caballero's 1.3 WAR in 34 games nearly equals Anthony Volpe's 1.6 WAR in 153 games last year.

4. Chicago Cubs (+1)

• Don't forget Moisés Ballesteros (six homers, .978 OPS) in the outstanding rookies conversation.

5. San Diego Padres (-1)

• Remember how good Griffin Canning was for the Mets last year? He struck out seven in five innings of his Padres debut.

6. Tampa Bay Rays (+3)

• On a 16-5 heater and have swept four teams, tops in the majors.

7. Cincinnati Reds (-1)

• Got swept in Pittsburgh and it couldn't be much uglier.

8. Pittsburgh Pirates (-1)

• Konnor Griffin's feet on the ground with .262 average, .723 OPS.

9. Detroit Tigers (-)

• Zack Short always finds his way back to Detroit.

10. Milwaukee Brewers (+1)

• Andrew Vaughn is back, but Jackson Chourio possibly delayed after fouling ball off foot in rehab game.

11. Cleveland Guardians (+1)

• That's 300 steals, 291 homers for the remarkable José Ramírez.

12. Toronto Blue Jays (+4)

• Looks like they're back-back.

13. Arizona Diamondbacks (-3)

• Geraldo Perdomo calls 2-6 road trip "bad, really bad."

14. Texas Rangers (+1)

• Rookies Peyton Grey and Gavin Collyer combine for 13 ⅓ scoreless innings so far.

15. Athletics (+4)

• They depart Yolo County atop the AL West as six-game Eastern swing looms.

16. St. Louis Cardinals (+3)

• Jordan Walker's 10 homers nearly equal his 11 from 2024, 2025 combined.

17. Seattle Mariners (-4)

• Cal Raleigh's side issue has him flirting with IL.

18. Miami Marlins (-4)

• Old friend Don Mattingly takes a series off them for his Phillies.

19. Philadelphia Phillies (+3)

• Bryson Stott had zero homers, four RBI in 22 games under Rob Tomson, and two and seven in six games with Don Mattingly.

20. Baltimore Orioles (-2)

• Getting blasted in the Bronx likely an accurate barometer of their season.

21. Washington Nationals (+5)

• Go figure: 12-7 on the road, 4-12 at home.

22. New York Mets (-5)

• Always wise to issue a vote of confidence before a series with the Angels.

23. Kansas City Royals (+5)

• Aimless season gains direction with sweep at Seattle.

24. Minnesota Twins (-)

• Joe Ryan's elbow soreness hopefully not a harbinger for disaster.

25. Houston Astros (+2)

• They climb over the desiccated Red Sox and into 13th place in the AL.

26. Chicago White Sox (+4)

• Noah Schultz struck out eight in six innings, remains very tall.

27. Boston Red Sox (-4)

• Ranger Suarez's right hamstring soreness the latest woe.

28. San Francisco Giants (-3)

• Willy Adames in your garden-variety 5-for-55 hole, though he did break a 54-at-bat streak without an extra-base hit.

29. Los Angeles Angels (-8)

• In a 2-12 freefall and have scored two or fewer runs in eight of their last 14.

30. Colorado Rockies (-1)

• This Troy Johnston thing looking for real: .321/.385/.453 in 31 games.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: MLB power rankings: Chicago Cubs rampaging into NL Central bully

The Baltimore Ravens addressed multiple needs during the 2026 NFL Draft, but one glaring question remains unanswered: the center position. After selecting Vega Ioane in the first round and edge rusher Zion Young in the second, Baltimore watched two top center prospects come off the board before their next pick. Logan Jones was selected by the Chicago Bears at No. 57, followed by Jake Slaughter going to the Los Angeles Chargers at No. 63. When the Ravens were back on the clock at No. 80, they opted for wide receiver Ja'Kobi Lane instead.

That decision has left league observers questioning Baltimore's plan in the middle of the offensive line. According to NFL executives via The Athletic, the Ravens may take a wide-open approach in the short term, allowing multiple players to compete for the starting role.

“Baltimore is going to let everybody who can snap the ball try,” one executive said, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the position.

One potential solution could come via trade. Garrett Bradbury, now with Chicago after an offseason move from New England, has been floated as a logical target via The Athletic. Bradbury's familiarity with Ravens offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford—dating back to their time together at NC State—adds another layer of intrigue. Still, any deal would depend heavily on how the Bears evaluate Jones, their second-round pick. As one executive noted, Chicago may be reluctant to move Bradbury until they are confident that Jones is ready to take over as the long-term starter.

For now, the Ravens appear content to sort things out internally, but with a playoff-caliber roster, the center position remains one of the few unresolved questions heading into the 2026 season.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens still searching for answer at center

• Day four of six County Championship matches
• Radio commentary from available via 'watch & listen' tab
• Div One: Hants v Glamorgan, Leics v Notts, Somerset v Yorkshire, Surrey v Sussex
• Somerset chasing 260 to win at Taunton
• Div Two: Kent v Derbys, Middlesex v Durham
• Northants beat Worcestershire by an innings & 177 runs on Sunday
• Have your say using the Get Involved button

County Championship: Somerset need 260 to beat Yorkshire, plus five more games

In this episode of Madrid Mornings, Lucas shares his thoughts on Real Madrid’s win against Espanyol.

• Lineup thoughts
• Arbeloa
• Real Madrid are now Player FC

CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS

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Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you.

The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going.

Hosts this week:

Lucas Navarrete (@LucasNavarreteM)

The Carolina Panthers are still a ways away from capturing the first Lombardi Trophy in franchise history. But their work over the past few months, which has earned them a small (and unofficial) "accolade," may help them finally get there.

Pro Football Focus, in a recent Twitter/X post, has tabbed the Panthers as the offseason champions for 2026. The site holds their offseason activity in high regard, giving them an 'A-' grade for free agency and an 'A+' for the NFL draft.

General manager Dan Morgan and his front office began the legwork behind their NFC South title defense by reeling in two of the league's very top free agents—pass rusher Jaelan Phillips and Pro Bowl linebacker Devin Lloyd. Carolina would later add the top left tackle of the open market, Rasheed Walker, on a stunningly team-friendly one-year, $4 million pact.

Their focus on the blindside continued into the draft, where they grabbed Georgia's Monroe Freeling—the top true left tackle prospect—with this year's 19th overall selection. Here's what PFF had to say about their first-round choice:

Freeling is still a young tackle prospect with untapped potential, but he showed clear signs of improvement as a pass protector from 2024 (65.3 PFF grade) to 2025 (86.1). This provides Carolina with another starting option at left tackle, with Ikem Ekwonu coming off a major late-season injury.

Carolina then scooped up Texas Tech defensive lineman Lee Hunter in the second round, Tennessee wide receiver Chris Brazzell II in the third, Texas A&M cornerback Will Lee III in the fourth, Kansas State center Sam Hecht and Penn State safety Zakee Wheatley in the fifth and Miami of Ohio linebacker Jackson Kuwatch in the seventh.

PFF, with the exception of Kuwatch, marked every Panthers pick as a "steal" based off their big board.

Follow @ThePanthersWire on Twitter/X for more Panthers content.

This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers named offseason champions by PFF

It took three Game 7s and three series that ended in six, but the first round of the NBA playoffs have wrapped up, which means the conference semifinals are already upon us.

In the East, the No. 3 New York Knicks are taking on the No. 7 Philadelphia 76ers while the top-seeded Detroit Pistons will face the No. 4 Cleveland Cavaliers.

Out West, the No. 1 Oklahoma City Thunder, the only team to win their first-round series in a sweep, will battle the No. 4 Los Angeles Lakers as All-Star guard Luka Dončić continues to mend from his hamstring injury. In the other series, the No. 2 San Antonio Spurs will face another squad dealing with injury issues, the No. 6 Minnesota Timberwolves, with Anthony Edwards dealing with his left knee bone bruise.

Here’s a look at each conference semifinal series, with a prediction for each:

Eastern Conference

No. 3 New York Knicks vs. No. 7 Philadelphia 76ers

This 76ers team is not only peaking at the right moment, they actually look like legitimate threats. As long as Joel Embiid is playing the way he has since returning from his appendectomy, Philadelphia will have an argument. Embiid’s size and scoring ability makes him a nightmare to defend. It also stresses Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns and demands a big series from backup center Mitchell Robinson.

For as good as Philadelphia has been, however, New York has been even better. After the Knicks went down 2-1 in the first round against the Hawks, the Knicks used Towns as the anchor of their offense. OG Anunoby had a massive series, and New York’s trio of Anunoby, Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges make their defense versatile and tough to crack.

The pick: Knicks in 7

No. 1 Detroit Pistons vs. No. 4 Cleveland Cavaliers

Detroit, frankly, didn’t play its best series and had a few limitations exposed in its seven-game series against the Orlando Magic. For one, the Pistons struggle when their outside shots don’t drop. For another, it became clear that All-Star point guard Cade Cunningham needs more help; as the playoffs continue, he alone cannot carry Detroit. And, finally, the Pistons will need more from their other All-Star, center Jalen Duren, who struggled to impact games early in the series.

Many of the same issues above could be said about the Cavaliers, who also needed seven games to dispatch their first-round opponent, the Toronto Raptors. Cleveland struggled with turnovers for much of the series, and Donovan Mitchell had good games, but not great ones. Cleveland will need him to be stellar, especially if Mitchell is to upend the narrative that he can’t go deep in the postseason.

The pick: Pistons in 6

Western Conference

No. 2 San Antonio Spurs vs. No. 6 Minnesota Timberwolves

This might be the toughest series to project, simply because it’s unclear how much Anthony Edwards will be available with his left knee bone bruise. The Timberwolves did announce that Edwards was cleared for on-court basketball activities, so the news is positive on that front. If Edwards isn’t able to play, however, it will be tough sledding for Minnesota, even though its defense was exceptional against the Nuggets and even though role players like Jaden McDaniels stepped up in a big way.

Either way, this series will depend on the matchup between the two countrymen, Victor Wembanyama of the Spurs and Rudy Gobert of the Timberwolves. Gobert was superb against Denver Nuggets all-world center Nikola Jokić, and he’ll need to be even better against Wembanyama. Protecting the paint is essential, and San Antonio’s speed in the backcourt will be tough to navigate. One other element to watch here is San Antonio’s relative inexperience in the playoffs. The Timberwolves, meanwhile, have made consecutive conference finals appearances.

The pick: Timberwolves in 7

No. 1 Oklahoma City Thunder vs. No. 4 Los Angeles Lakers

The issue for the Lakers is the ongoing absence of All-Star guard Luka Dončić. Without him, LeBron James had to take on a massive role against the Houston Rockets. And, despite his age, he delivered. The Lakers did stumble in the middle of the Houston series, so finding ways to keep James fresh will be crucial. The return of Austin Reaves was big, and Lakers role players like Marcus Smart and Rui Hachimura played some of their best hoops of the year in the first round.

But, the tough part for the Lakers is that they’re running into an absolute buzzsaw in the Thunder. The only team to sweep in the first round, Oklahoma City is poised, focus and now has the understanding of what it takes to win a title. The Thunder are deep, explosive and play some of the most aggressive on-ball defense in the NBA. They’re balanced and have role players that would be stars on other teams.

The pick: Thunder in 5

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA playoffs conference semifinals predictions

The New York Giants added much-needed protection for star quarterback Jaxon Dart by selecting Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft.

Mauigoa was widely regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in college football throughout his three seasons at Miami. The talented lineman should provide an instant boost to the Giants' offense in 2026, as he is expected to play a crucial role in protecting Dart and strengthening New York’s run game this season.

The former Miami star was fired up on draft night, declaring that he would be willing to "die" behind his protection for Dart this season. The superstar quarterback responded to Mauigoa’s comments in a recent interview at the Kentucky Derby, appearing eager to work with the talented lineman in 2026.

.@JaxsonDart reacts to new @Giants OL Francis Mauigoa saying he will "die for" him 😤 pic.twitter.com/78bewZtkTc

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) May 3, 2026

"I'm pumped," he said. "We were watching that on TV. He fired me up. But that's exactly what you want. That's the kind of player that I want to play for, and I think that he’s an amazing addition for our team. Just his physicality, his toughness, all of his intangibles that he brings to the table—it's gonna be awesome for us."

Mauigoa was considered by many to be the top offensive lineman in this year’s draft. Dart will enter his sophomore campaign with significantly improved protection compared to last season, and Mauigoa could quickly elevate the star quarterback’s game as early as Week 1.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Giants' Jaxson Dart responds to Francis Mauigoa's viral draft comments

One Pittsburgh Steelers rookie has been going viral for his insane diet, leaving the NFL world shocked by the amount of food he consumes for game day.

Steelers third-round rookie Gennings Dunker, a talented offensive lineman out of Iowa, reportedly begins his game-day diet with two-to-three servings of pasta, meat sauce, bread rolls, steak, and two servings of fruit at 5:30 p.m. the night before he plays. Around three hours later, he follows this up by consuming three hamburgers, three bags of Baked Lay's, a hydration mix, and hot chocolate.

In the morning at approximately 7:15 a.m., Dunker consumes four servings of toast, two bowls of Wheaties, some pancakes, and two chicken breasts. He then follows it up with another four servings of toast and a chicken breast around two hours later.

Most people would quit at this point, but not Dunker — who finishes up his diet with a post-game meal at Culver's, featuring a Double Bacon Cheeseburger, family-sized cheese curds or onion rings, along with three sides of ranch.

THIS IS ABSOLUTELY WILD:

Pittsburgh #Steelers third round pick guard Gennings Dunker has the CRAZIEST DIET in #NFL history.

Game-day diet:

• Night before (5:30 PM): 2-3 pasta servings w/ meat marinara, bread rolls, 12oz steak, 2 fruit servings.
• Later (~8:30 PM): 3… pic.twitter.com/h0mPPSp1Y2

— MLFootball (@MLFootball) May 3, 2026

A standout offensive tackle at Iowa, Dunker is projected to move to offensive guard in the NFL, where the Steelers currently have a vacancy on the left side.

Dunker was considered one of the top offensive line prospects in the NFL Draft, and if his diet is any indication of how he maintains his massive frame, Steelers fans will be in for a show in 2026.

For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' Gennings Dunker goes viral for surprising game-day diet

The Atlanta Falcons are moving on from the 2026 NFL Draft to the next phase the offseason, but they've still yet to officially sign their undrafted free agent class. The team has reportedly agreed to terms with 16 undrafted free agents, many of whom play on the offensive side of the football.

Atlanta added one quarterback, one running back, two tight ends, five wide receivers, three offensive linemen, two defensive linemen, one specialist and one defensive back. Plus, several players have been invited to the team's rookie minicamp.

In today's undrafted free agent spotlight, we look at MSU-Moorhead quarterback Jack Strand.

Falcons UDFA profile: QB Jack Strand

• 2025 stats: 3,546 pass yards, 42 TD, 14 INT; 288 rush yards, 5 TD

Strand, a Division II legend, met with the Falcons prior to the draft and was one of the team's first reported undrafted free agent signings. The former Dragons signal-caller broke every school passing record during his four years at MSU-Moorhead (2022-2025), ending his career with 13,161 passing yards, 126 touchdowns and 50 interceptions.

While he's not exactly a dual-threat, Strand had nine career rushing touchdowns. Last season, he rushed for 288 yards and five touchdowns. The 6-foot-4, 245-pound quarterback has a sturdy frame and NFL-caliber arm. Strand still needs some polish, but he has enough physical tools to compete for a backup job at the NFL level.

"A big-boned, sturdy passer, Strand has a live arm but a funky, sidearmed release," wrote The Athletic's Dane Brugler. "His accuracy is adequate, but his ball placement must be more consistent when attacking small-window throws. He tends to arm most of his throws, especially to his left, and needs to be more aware of getting his footwork and hips aligned. He can throw with anticipation and isn’t shy about throwing to spots, although he needs to take better care of the ball."

The Falcons already have three quarterbacks on the roster -- Michael Penix Jr., Tua Tagovailoa and Trevor Siemian -- but Strand has a chance to compete with Siemian for that third quarterback job this season.

Jack Strand is a QB prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored a 9.17 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 94 out of 1126 QB from 1987 to 2026.https://t.co/uSbGBZ2Ue5pic.twitter.com/LbgldY8KLE

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) April 13, 2026

Check out the rest of Atlanta's undrafted free agent signings below.

Falcons' undrafted free agents (unofficial)

1. QB Jack Strand, MSU-Moorhead: According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Falcons are signing MSU-Moorhead quarterback Jack Strand. Atlanta met with Strand before the draft and now he joins the team as its fourth quarterback. Last season, Strand had 3,546 yards and 42 touchdowns with 14 interceptions.
2. RB Cash Jones, Georgia: The Falcons are signing undrafted Georgia running back Cash Jones, per SI draft expert Justin Melo. Jones met with the team ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. The pass-catching weapon is someone to watch in training camp.
3. TE Brandon Frazier, Auburn: According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Falcons are signing undrafted free agent Auburn tight end/h-back Brandon Frazier. A blocking specialist, Frazier gives the team some much-needed tight end depth.
4. TE Jack Velling, Michigan State: The Falcons are signing undrafted Michigan State tight end Jack Velling, per NFL insider Jordan Schultz. Last season, Velling had 36 catches for 359 receiving yards and three touchdowns over 12 games in East Lansing.
5. WR Keelan Marion, Miami: The Falcons are signing undrafted Miami wide receiver Keelan Marion, per report. Marion had 57 receptions for 746 receiving yards and two touchdowns for the Hurricanes last season.
6. WR Andrel Anthony, Duke: According to USA TODAY reporter Arye Pulli, the Falcons are signing undrafted Duke wide receiver Andrel Anthony. The former Blue Devil had 26 catches for 246 receiving yards and five touchdowns last season.
7. WR Malik Rutherford, Georgia Tech: The Falcons are signing Georgia Tech wide receiver Malik Rutherford according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. The 5-foot-9 wideout recorded 46 catches for 519 yards and three touchdowns last season.
8. WR Vinny Anthony, Wisconsin: According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Falcons are signing Wisconsin wide receiver Vinny Anthony. The former Badgers wideout will reportedly get $265,000 guaranteed to join Atlanta. Last season, he had 31 catches for 391 receiving yards and one touchdown.
9. WR Le'Meke Brockington, Minnesota: According to NFL insider Aaron Wilson, the Falcons are signing Minnesota wide receiver Le'Meke Brockington. Last season, he had 46 catches for 484 receiving yards and four touchdowns for the Golden Gophers.
10. CB Malcolm Dewalt, Akron: The Atlanta Falcons are signing Akron CB Malcolm Dewalt, according to NFL reporter Easton Butler. Dewalt had two interceptions, one forced fumble and eight passes defended last season.
11. OL Kam Dewberry, Texas A&M: The Falcons are signing Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Kam Dewberry, per reporter Wyatt Fulton. Dewberry is another developmental guard prospect with some upside.
12. OL Riley Mahlman, Wisconsin: The Falcons are signing Wisconsin offensive lineman Riley Mahlman, per NFL reporter Aaron Wilson. The 6-foot-8 left tackle is an intriguing developmental prospect.
13. C James Brockermeyer, Miami: The Atlanta Falcons are signing Miami center James Brockermeyer, per NFL reporter Matt Zenitz reported. Brokermeyer can provide depth behind Ryan Neuzil in 2026.
14. DT Carlos Allen, Houston: "Former Houston DT Carlos Allen is signing with the Falcons, per source," NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero reported on Saturday evening. The Falcons needed help at defensive tackle and Allen is someone to watch in training camp.
15. DL CJ Nunnally, Purdue: The Falcons are expected to sign former Purdue defensive lineman CJ Nunnally, according to NFL reporter Matt Zenitz.
16. LSPhilip Florenzo, Clemson: The Falcons have signed long snapper Philip Florenzo, per report. Florenzo was one of just seven long snappers at the combine.

The Falcons begin OTAs on May 26 and mandatory minicamp kicks off on June 9.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons UDFA class: QB Jack Strand scouting report

Texas A&M's spring season ended after the annual Maroon & White Game on April 18, providing third-year head coach Mike Elko and his staff another opportunity to evaluate the 2026 roster, which now includes 17 transfer portal additions and 26 signees from the 2026 signing class.

However, after a record ten players were selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, new offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins will have his hands full as a first-time playcaller, but will be working with starting quarterback Marcel Reed, who is entering his third season and second as the program's full-time starter.

After throwing for a career-high 3,169 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions last season, Reed's offseason focus has shifted to improving his decision-making in the pocket, ball placement, and utilizing his playmakers in the middle of the field instead of forcing deep throws in tight coverage.

Still, after adding 6'4" Alabama transfer wide receiver Isaiah Horton to the roster, 50/50 balls should see a higher success rate this fall. On defense, the loss of senior linebacker Daymion Sanford, who suffered a lower-body injury during the spring game, will affect the units' depth, but sophomore LB Noah Mikhail and transfer Ray Coney look ready to step up in his absence.

Overall, facing one of the toughest schedules in the SEC could result in taking a step back next season after finishing 11-2, including the program's first appearance in the College Football Playoff, and while the national media still views the Aggies as a Top 10 team heading into the 2026 season, CBS Sports analyst Brad Crawford is a little less enthusiastic.

Releasing his personal post-spring Top 25 rankings, Texas A&M comes in at No. 13 compared to CBS Sports ranking the Aggies' 8th in Brandon Marcello's rankings late last month.

1. Miami
2. Texas
3. Oregon
4. Ohio State
5. Notre Dame
6. Indiana
7. Georgia
8. LSU
9. Ole Miss
10. Texas Tech
11. Alabama
12. USC
13. Texas A&M
14. Michigan
15. BYU
16. Oklahoma
17. SMU
18. Washington
19. Louisville
20. Utah
21. Houston
22. Florida
23. Iowa
24. Virginia Tech
25. UNLV

Being ranked below Alabama and Tech Tech, given both program's quarterback issues, especially prized transfer addition Brendan Sorsby likely being ineligible for the entire 2026 season, is certainly questionable, but it's understandable to be in "wait and see" mode when analyzing a relatively new Aggie roster.

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M ranked 13th in Brad Crawford's post-spring rankings

Hero Kanu revealed his way of doing business earlier this spring.

In tattoo form, no less.

Texas football's German-born defensive tackle lowered his T-shirt during a spring football conversation with reporters to reveal three words inked right below his collarbone. “Trust the process.”

And what does the ink mean to you, Hero?

“You can have all the talent in the world, but if you can't do the little things right, it doesn't matter,” Kanu said. “So obviously you've got to trust the process and go in the right direction every day.”

MORE CED:Texas NFL draft output will bode well for the fall 

Sign up for Ced's Corner 

Sign up for Cedric Golden’s newsletter for hot takes and expert analysis each Tuesday on Texas Longhorns football and beyond.  It's called Ced’s Corner, from the mind of the American-Statesman’s resident sports columnist who was named the NSMA's 2025 Texas Sportswriter of the Year.

That process can be long and labored, but when executed correctly, fruit can happen.That’s the hope for the Longhorns, who will enter the 2026 season as one of several teams with a legitimate chance to win the whole shooting match after missing the College Football Playoff for the first time in three years in 2025.

While the program will be seeking its first national championship since 2005 and its fifth overall, this fall represents a major test for the team’s most experienced interior lineman on a personal and professional level.

Will bigger be better?

Kanu is in his second year in Austin after deciding against being a one-and-done Longhorn. He put off the NFL draft for another year and made some noticeable changes in his preparation, including a big one on the scale by adding 20 pounds to his 6-foot-5, 300-pound frame after consulting with UT defensive line coach Kenny Baker and strength and conditioning coach Torre Becton. 

 “We collectively made the decision that I'm going to put on a little bit of weight," Kanu said. "If you’re going to play in the SEC, you’re going to play that real ball.”

MORE CED:Texas OL coach Kyle Flood says Horns are starting over

Baker and head coach Steve Sarkisian helped Kanu mull a choice of whether to leave for the NFL or come back to college for another year. When it comes to Baker, Kanu knew he was dealing with a straight shooter and the coach told him that what he did in 2025 wasn’t good enough if he wanted to eventually realize his NFL dream. 

So Baker pushed him this spring to get bigger, stronger and hungrier.

In the offseason, the two sat down and watched film of every snap Kanu took last season. The conversations were sugar-free honest, the type of critiques every player with realistic expectations of playing in the NFL needs to hear. Baker describes Kanu as a high-character player who's willing to do whatever it takes to play at the next level, so it came as no surprise that Baker kept it 100 — hip talk for brutal honesty— with his charge.

“I thought there were a lot of plays he's supposed to make that he made, but there weren't those special splash plays that he's capable of,” Baker said. “So it's a combination of confidence and building trust in his ability to go and make a play. But we also really worked a lot of the explosion and a lot of the stuff that he has. He just wasn’t there as much.”

BASEBALL: Horns take opener over Hail State

Baker knows what it takes to cash NFL paychecks. In his first year here in 2024, he pushed defensive tackle Alfred Collins — who had only shown flashes of NFL potential in his first three seasons — to second-team All-America honors. By the end of his rookie NFL season, Collins was one of the brightest young stars with the San Francisco 49ers. In his previous stop with the Miami Dolphins, Baker’s pupil Christian Wilkins registered nine sacks, a franchise best for a defensive tackle.

Texas' DT pipeline to the NFL

Kanu’s position isn’t always about the numbers since tackles often occupy blockers to allow linebackers and edge rushers to make the highlight reel plays, but the program has produced some great disruptors on the interior in recent years like T’Vondre Sweat, Byron Murphy II and Collins.

The goal is to press the pocket more under new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp. Baker wants more flash from the middle in the mode or previous DT's around here and if that happens, a defense that slipped from third to 40th over the last two seasons can regain its collective swagger.

TEXAS SOFTBALL:Horns drop Arkansas series 

That goes double for Kanu, who had 30 tackles last season — eight were solo and four came behind the line of scrimmage — with a pair of sacks. He and Baker agree another level is attainable.

“(Baker) always tells me, just to keep me humble, ‘You never arrive,'” Kanu said. “It doesn't matter what you do, you never arrive. So I was thinking about that and praying about that and talking to him (and other coaches) to see what I can improve and upgrade.”

After two seasons at Ohio State — where he was part of the 2024 national championship team — Kanu has grown into a locker room leader in his season-plus in the 512. Some don’t even know that Kanu, who grew up loving soccer before his frame outgrew the game, has only been playing organized American football since the spring of 2021, one year after moving from Germany to California.

He’s still learning the game. That said, energy doesn’t stand still and Kanu understands you’re either getting better or getting worse. To that end, he has taken a path that will hopefully lead to a breakthrough and some NFL riches down the line.

Only the work remains.

The process is ongoing.

While Wisconsin Badgers fans may not like their ranking, USA TODAY placed Luke Fickell's squad at No. 76 after spring practice.

It's going to take a lot more than a strong spring showing from someone like Old Dominion transfer quarterback Colton Joseph to turn things around.

Fresh off back-to-back losing seasons, something that's basically unheard of with this program, Fickell has his work cut out for him. He's been putting together a stellar class of 2027, though those recruits are still a year out.

Wisconsin, like always, has a difficult schedule ahead. Playing in the Big Ten is never easy, especially when looking at Paul Myerberg's list and seeing that three of the top six teams are all in the Badgers conference.

Sure, Fickell doesn't have to worry about the No. 1-ranked team, Ohio State, but Wisconsin opens its season at Lambeau Field against a Notre Dame squad Myerberg has sitting at No. 2.

There are a ton of winnable games on the Badgers' schedule, but the national media has every right to question just how good they're going to be after a pair of disastrous seasons.

Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin football earns No. 76 ranking USA TODAY post-spring ball

UNCASVILLE, CT − Connecticut Sun fans stood in long lines for autographs from their favorite players at the WNBA team's annual open practice and meet-and-greet to kick off the 2026 season at Mohegan Sun arena in late April.

Nearly 1,500 season-ticket holders collected signatures from the newest roster members − legendary center Brittney Griner and UCLA national champions Gianna Kneepkens and Charlisse Leger-Walker − and old favorites − UConn grads Aaliyah Edwards and Olivia Nelson-Ododa − alike.

The fans know there won't be many more opportunities like this after the Mohegan Tribe ownership group announced March 30 it would sell the Sun to Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta. While the reported $300 million sale still has to be ratified by the WNBA Board of Governors, its a foregone conclusions Fertitta will move the franchise to Houston ahead of the 2027 season.

"It's disappointing because we have a history here," Myra Amsden, a season-ticket holder from Waterford, Connecticut, who has been coming to games for 20 years.

"The Sun were really robbed it from the tribe. There's too many things that are not right about this whole thing. And it's embarrassing, I think, for the WNBA."

The tribe had agreed to sell to former Celtics minority owner Steve Pagliuca for $325 million in July 2025. He had planned to move the team to Boston. Milwaukee Bucks owner Marc Lasry matched the $325 million and wanted to relocate the team to Hartford. The WNBA said no to both proposals, saying neither group made a bid for expansion in the last round so they were not eligible to buy the Sun.

The WNBA announced expansion to Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029) and Philadelphia (2030) in July 2025. At the time, commissioner Cathy Engelbert made it clear the league wanted to return to Houston sooner than later.

“One of those I wanted to shout out because they have such a strong history in this league, and they’re a great ownership group — Houston. … That’s the one we have our eye on,” Engelbert said at the time. “Tilman (Fertitta) has been a great supporter of the WNBA, and we’ll stay tuned on that.

“Houston would be up next for sure. There might be opportunities there.”

The opportunity comes at the expense of Sun fans. The Mohegan Tribe bought the franchise, formerly the Orlando Miracle, in 2003 for $10 million. They have played in Connecticut for 24 seasons. Mike Greer and his wife, Asia, have had season tickets for two years but have been coming to games for much longer.

"I feel like a sore loser," said Greer, who's 5-year-old daughter, Autumn, was waiting in line with him for autogrpahs. "I've been mad. ... It's not even bittersweet. It's just bitter. There's no silver lining."

Asia Greer added: "It doesn't seem like a good business deal as the league is appreciating. The WNBA just did whatever they wanted. It's really sad how they snatched the team away."

Jenny Trerice has been coming to Sun games since she was 15, "when they first existed." She reminisced about the many players − from Nykesha Sales and Lindsey Whalen to DeWanna Bonner and Alyssa Thomas − who she's cheered for over the years.

"For it to be such a big basketball place and for them to say, 'We'll be gone in less than a year,'" Trerice said. "It shocked me, but it didn't. It definitely more hurt me than anything ... it seems like almost no loyalty."

Trerice attends games with her mom, Jennifer, who lamented the loss of the team and the opportunity to spend time with her daughter.

"This is like some some mom-kid bonding time that's gonna be taken away," Jennifer said. "I cherish it."

Connecticut calls itself the basketball capital of the world, thanks to 18 national championships combined between the UConn men's and women's basketball teams. The Sun never won a title but did make the playoffs 17 times and WNBA Finals four times in their history.

“Connecticut deserves to have a team, because we’re a proven (place) where people will support women’s basketball,” UConn coach Geno Auriemma said in March. “So them now moving, I think it leaves a void. They had a great fanbase, and it wasn’t only UConn fans or fans only went when UConn players came.

“They did a great job of establishing their own fanbase, and it was a rabid fanbase that provided a lot of energy and a lot of passion for those teams.”

As season ticket holders stood for up to a half an hour to meet their favorite player, longtime season-ticket holder Angel Earle said the event, where you "used to be able to get every player" has grown so much now you have to pick three or four players to target. Seeing the fanbase grow but being unable to keep the Sun in Connecticut is "frustrating."

Earle, who is well-known among the Connecticut fans for sitting courtside in colorful costumes and leading cheers, said she will continue to root for the W but doesn't look forward to having to take a road trip to see a game live.

"The New York Liberty will be the closest (WNBA team) but, I think before I start traveling all that way, I'll probably move back to Jersey first," Earle said.

"When I am retired ... maybe I'll move to Texas (to support the Houston Comets). Who knows?"

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Connecticut Sun fans devastated by Houston move, savor final season

The 2026 men's basketball transfer portal has been full of swings and misses for high-major programs.

Kentucky coach Mark Pope was seen in recent days at a Maccabi Tel Aviv game in Israel on an apparent recruiting trip. First-year LSU coach Will Wade, who has one player on his roster for next season — former Kentucky forward Mouhamed Dioubate — is also reportedly in Europe as he looks to fill out the Tigers' roster.

The Wildcats landed a pair of top-ranked lead guards in Zoom Diallo from Washington and Alex Wilkins from Furman, although questions have been raised of how the backcourt will fit together. Wilkins, a true freshman last season, averaged 17.8 points with 4.7 assists per game, but also was one of the least-efficient guards nationally, averaging 3.8 turnovers per contest. The two similar players aren't the best of shooters, either.

Who has best haul so far? College basketball transfer portal team rankings

Under-the-radar transfers: When the stars are gone, the smart portal moves matter most

Both programs are likely holding out hope for Santa Clara forward Allen Graves, the No. 3 overall player of the transfer portal this offseason, per USA TODAY Sports' rankings. The Louisiana native's older brother, Marshall Graves, played four seasons at LSU under Wade during Wade's first stint with the program.

While the teams on the list have made some intriguing moves and aren't done filling their rosters, they perhaps have more question marks than normal, given some of their positions on college basketball's totem pole.

Here's a look at the high-end programs with the worst transfer portal hauls so far:

Kentucky

Kentucky lost out on the Tyran Stokes sweepstakes, which likely put a dent in its portal plans. Still, it's hard to overlook the Wildcats' apparent shortcomings as one of the most successful programs in the sport's history.

Kentucky was also unable to land BYU guard Rob Wright III, who withdrew from the portal to stay with the Cougars, and Syracuse forward Donnie Freeman, who picked St. John's.

After landing its awkward-fitting backcourt duo of Diallo and Wilkins, Kentucky and Pope also grabbed a commitment from Ousmane N'Diaye, a 22-year-old Senegalese forward that was playing in the highest tier of professional basketball in Italy. Kentucky also grabbed James Madison transfer Justin McBride, a four-time transfer who averaged 15.9 points per game last season.

Mark Pope’s bluegrass honeymoon is over: Kentucky paid for a Final Four. Not this.

Opinion: Mark Pope, stop comparing yourself to John Calipari — or wind up like Hubert Davis

Kentucky has a chance at putting its roster questions to bed, though, if it can lure Baylor transfer Tounde Yessoufou. However, the former five-star prospect is reportedly considering staying in the NBA Draft after declaring. As a true freshman, he averaged 17.8 points with 5.9 rebounds per game last season.

To make matters worse, all seven of Kentucky's transfers landed at Power Five programs, with three of them staying in the SEC. While the Wildcats grabbed some intriguing players, their roster makeup certainly has some question marks and definitely wasn't their preferred outcome.

• Transfers in: Zoom Diallo (Washington), Alex Wilkins (Furman), Justin McBride (James Madison), Jerone Morton (Washington State).
• Transfers out: Collin Chandler (BYU), Andrija Jelavic (Ohio State), Denzel Aberdeen (Florida), Mouhamed Dioubate (LSU), Brandon Garrison (Alabama), Jasper Johnson (Oregon), Jaland Lowe (Georgetown).
• Returners: Malachi Moreno, Kam Williams, Trent Noah

LSU

LSU has one player on its roster as of May 3.

While it hasn't been ideal by any measure, the Tigers still have a few options: International recruiting, plucking a G Leaguer, convince the few uncommitted portal players or maybe even a late high school addition.

Former NC State guard Paul McNeil Jr., who played under Wade last season, could end up with the Tigers. So could Graves, who has connections to the program. But cutting it this close doesn't give much room for error, especially with Dioubate not being a go-to scoring option by any means.

Opinion: A scoundrel returns: Will Wade's LSU comeback makes perfect sense

Maybe LSU has an underlying plan that isn't immediately understood by the fan base. But the clock is ticking.

• Transfers in: Mouhamed Dioubate (Kentucky)
• Transfers out: Jalen Reece (Texas A&M), Robert Miller III, Marcus Vaughns (Arizona State), Mazi Mosley (Loyola Marymount), Mike Nwoko (Xavier), Mat Gilhool (Kansas State), Jalen Reed (Michigan), Ron Zipper, Dedan Thomas Jr. (Houston)
• Returners: None

Kansas

Kansas' gamble on waiting out Stokes' decision worked out, as it landed the No. 1-ranked player out of high school who will instantly be the team's go-to scorer next season. The addition still wasn't enough to overcome some of the Jayhawks' offseason blunders, though.

Kansas lost a pair of high-end big men in Flory Bidunga and Bryson Tiller, who went to Louisville and Missouri, respectively. It replaced Bidunga with College of Charleston transfer Christian Reeves, a clear step down from USA TODAY Sports' No. 2-ranked portal player.

Kansas also grabbed Utah transfer Keanu Dawes, a solid Big 12 pickup who averaged 12.5 points with 8.8 rebounds last season, and Toledo transfer Leroy Blyden Jr., who averaged 16.4 points with four rebounds and 4.5 assists per game in 2025-26 as a true freshman in the MAC, one of the weakest non-Power Four conferences in college basketball.

The Jayhawks did, however, also sign five-star high schooler Taylen Kinney, along with three other top-150 ranked recruits. Still, they have no full-time returning starters from last season, with their top returner being Kohl Rosario, who averaged 3.4 points per game. Kansas already tried putting all its eggs in one basket last season with five-star phenom Darryn Peterson, which resulted in a second-round exit at the NCAA Tournament.

Maybe the Jayhawks will have more luck this time around?

• Transfers in: Christian Reeves (College of Charleston), Leroy Blyden Jr. (Toledo), Keanu Dawes (Utah).
• Transfers out: Flory Bidunga (Louisville), Bryson Tiller (Missouri), Elmarko Jackson (Georgetown), Jamari McDowell (Wake Forest), Samis Calderon (Butler), Jayden Dawson, Corbin Allen (Appalachian State).
• Returners: Kohl Rosario, Paul Mbiya

Notre Dame

Micah Shrewsberry has a 41-56 record in three seasons at Notre Dame, and has yet to reach the NCAA Tournament, or any other postseason competition for that matter.

The transfer portal hasn't been kind for Shrewsberry and the Fighting Irish, as they lost their two best players in Markus Burton (Indiana) and Jalen Haralson (Tennessee). Sophomore guard Cole Certa, Notre Dame's third-leading scorer in 2025-26, left for Clemson.

It also doesn't look great that Notre Dame's only returning starter from last season is Braeden Shrewsberry, the son of its head coach.

Notre Dame added part-time starting guard Braeden Smith from Gonzaga, center Logan Duncomb from Winthrop and sharpshooting guard Ethan Roberts from Penn, although the roster's talent as of now appears to be far off last season's squad, which wasn't a good team either.

• Transfers in: Bryce Dortch (Rutgers), Braeden Smith (Gonzaga), Devin Brown (Davidson), Logan Duncomb (Winthrop), Ethan Roberts (Penn).
• Transfers out: Kebba Njie, Cole Certa (Clemson), Markus Burton (Indiana), Jalen Haralson (Tennessee), Ryder Frost (George Washington), Garrett Sundra (James Madison), Sir Mohammed.
• Returners: Braeden Shrewsberry, Brady Koehler, Logan Imes

TCU

TCU won nine of its last 11 games to end the regular season before taking down Ohio State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. It also gave Duke a scare in the first half before falling apart in the second half of the second round.

The Horned Frogs were set to return four starters in 2026-27, including star forward David Punch, making them one of the most experienced teams in the Big 12. However, Punch entered the portal and left for Texas, and TCU has struggled to add to its returning group.

TCU has landed a pair of transfers in West Virginia's DJ Thomas and Long Beach State's Gavin Sykes. The true freshmen were solid last season, as Thomas averaged 6.6 points per game off the bench, while Sykes was one of the best scorers in the Big West at 19.4 points per game, although he'll have to prove his ability at a much higher level in the Big 12.

TCU also lost part-time starter Liutauras Lelevicius to Clemson and rising bench contributors Kayden Edwards to Creighton, RJ Jones to Washington State and Jace Posey, turning an intriguing team for next season into one with a much lower ceiling.

• Transfers in: DJ Thomas (West Virginia), Gavin Sykes (Long Beach State)
• Transfers out: Malick Diallo (Loyola Chicago), David Punch (Texas), Liutauras Lelevicius (Clemson), Ashton Simmons, Kayden Edwards (Creighton), Jace Posey, RJ Jones (Washington State).
• Returners: Xavier Edmonds, Micah Robinson, Brock Harding, Tanner Toolson

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kentucky basketball, Kansas, LSU among transfer portal biggest losers

The NFL schedule release is the one day every year that sports fans don't mind circling more dates on the calendar.

It just goes to show that games don't always matter in the sport that has become a year-round machine. The fall and winter are for the games. The spring is for player movement. The summer is for preparation. Interest and money only back that up, as the NFL's arrow only seems to point in one direction – up.

So while a schedule release doesn't come across as the most glamorous thing in the world, it actually represents one of the biggest dates on the NFL calendar during the offseason – if there even is one.

Social media teams will treat the event like the Super Bowl, content teams will churn out endless record predictions, and fans will run through more permutations than those working the results board on election night.

2026 NFL SCHEDULE: Here's what we already know

With the 2026 NFL Draft officially in the past, the schedule release is the next big thing. And since our experiment with artificial intelligence (AI) predicting the NFL draft produced a wide range of results, USA TODAY Sports decided to test its ability to craft a schedule.

On the bright side, it included matchups that can actually happen – which was a pleasant surprise that also included dates, times and TV channels. Here's what Google's chatbot, Gemini, predicted the NFL Week 1 schedule would look like.

2026 NFL schedule predictions: Gemini AI's Week 1 projection

New England Patriots at Seattle Seahawks

• Date: Wednesday, Sept. 9
• Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
• TV: NBC

The Seahawks are already confirmed to be hosting the season-opener on Wednesday, Sept. 9 and Gemini picked up on that. Apparently the chatbot enjoyed Super Bowl 60 so much that it's calling for an instant rematch to start the 2026 season.

Given that the Super Bowl was a blowout, fans might feel differently.

San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Rams

• Date: Thursday, Sept. 10
• Time: 8:35 p.m. ET
• TV: Prime Video

The NFL has confirmed this game is happening and it will be the league's first game in Australia. Nothing more to see here.

Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: CBS

The Bengals host the Ravens in an AFC North matchup that also features Trey Hendrickson making his return to Cincinnati. This isn't your average early window kickoff game.

Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: Fox

Speaking of divisional drama, how about one of the league's biggest rivalries kicking off the season? The chatbot is giving the Packers an immediate chance at redemption after the Bears comeback win over Green Bay in the wild-card round.

It's also a chance for Ben Johnson and Matt LaFleur to renew their personal rivalry. The chatbot cooked up a good matchup, but we'd probably see this in a later timeslot if it actually came to fruition.

Houston Texans at Indianapolis Colts

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: CBS

Another divisional matchup, but the hype for this one is nonexistent. Outside of the "Octo-box," this game probably won't be featured much on "NFL RedZone," given the struggles both teams experienced on offense at the end of last season.

New York Giants at Washington Commanders

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: Fox

The debut of John Harbaugh for the Giants and new uniforms for the Commanders. Jayden Daniels is looking for a return to form and Jaxson Dart is trying to avoid the dreaded sophomore slump. Both teams hope to be factors in the NFC East so it only makes sense for them to clash in Week 1.

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: Fox

Gemini has loaded up the early window with divisional matchups and that remains the case as our tour continues in the Big Easy. Tyler Shough begins Year 2 in front of the home fans and Kevin Stefanski makes his Falcons coaching debut on the road in this clash between two NFC South hopefuls.

Cleveland Browns at Jacksonville Jaguars

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: CBS

Who will start at quarterback for the Browns in Week 1? Shedeur Sanders? Deshaun Watson? Who knows? The Dawg Pound will be a fascinating group to watch heading into the season opener against the Jags, who had a funky offseason of their own.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Tennessee Titans

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: CBS

Old faces in new places. Robert Saleh takes over on the Titans sideline and the Steelers feature a new coach of their own. After 19 seasons with Mike Tomlin on the sidelines, Mike McCarthy takes over for his hometown team. Will Aaron Rodgers be under center for Pittsburgh? One way or another, this would be a fun test for a young Tennessee team to begin Year 2 of the Cam Ward era.

Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: Fox

Another measuring stick game in the NFC South. Gemini isn't really going outside the box, but we will get an early look at how Baker Mayfield's team looks without Mike Evans against Bryce Young's frisky Panthers.

Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 4:05 p.m. ET
• TV: Fox

The chatbot is kicking off the late window with Kyler Murray's debut for the Vikings. Aside from it being another division matchup, both teams are desperate to bounce back after missing the playoffs last season.

New York Jets at Arizona Cardinals

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 4:05 p.m. ET
• TV: Fox

Welcome to the NFL, David Bailey and Jeremiyah Love. The No. 2 and No. 3 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft make their regular-season debut in the desert as each team tries to get out of the NFL's basement. At least for one week, that would be true.

Miami Dolphins at Denver Broncos

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 4:25 p.m. ET
• TV: CBS

This is essentially the chatbot's way of saying, "Jaylen Waddle was going to Denver in Week 1 whether he wanted to or not." The former Dolphins receiver makes his Broncos debut in front of his former team as the Jeff Hafley era begins for Miami. Denver will have every opportunity to get off to a quick start.

Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 4:25 p.m. ET
• TV: CBS

Fernando Mendoza or Kirk Cousins? Whoever the quarterback ends up being, it's not an easy start for the Raiders if the chatbot's prediction comes true. It's also a tough start for the Chargers fans, who should expect a hostile home environment as the silver-and-black take over SoFi Stadium.

Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills

• Date: Sunday, Sept. 13
• Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
• TV: NBC

The Bills open New Highmark Stadium in style with a battle against the Chiefs. Will Patrick Mahomes play? How will the Bills fare in the post-Sean McDermott era? What impact will the crowd have in the new building?

If you are in school, you'll want to finish that homework before this game kicks off. If you aren't, well, the Sunday scaries will just have to wait.

More: Andy Reid says Patrick Mahomes in 'good position' to get on field at Chiefs OTAs

Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles

• Date: Monday, Sept. 14
• Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
• TV: ESPN/ABC

Gemini put a bow on Week 1 with a heavyweight bout in the NFC East. The matchup that opened up the 2025 season will close out the opening week a year later.

When is the NFL schedule release 2026?

The NFL schedule is set to be released in May.

An exact date has not been announced, but history indicates that it should be expected about May 12-14. Leaks will trickle out in the days ahead, especially with an expanded international slate and some holiday games on the docket.

The league added games in Australia and Paris to the 2026 schedule, as well as a return to Mexico City for the first time since 2022.

There was also the elimination of Monday night doubleheaders, following Disney's acquisition of NFL Network. More games are set for streaming in 2026, along with other changes that will be revealed with the upcoming release.

In other words, the Wednesday night opening game in Seattle might not be the only adjustment fans will need to make this season.

When does the NFL regular season start in 2026?

The 2026 NFL regular season will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. Continuing tradition, the Super Bowl champions will kick off the season as the Seahawks get one last moment in the spotlight before turning the page to 2026.

While the kickoff game is typically set for the Thursday night after Labor Day, this season's was moved to Wednesday to accommodate a new international game. The Los Angeles Rams will host the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, Sept. 10 in the league's first-ever Australia game.

That means that fans can expect games to take place on Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday and Monday in Week 1.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NFL schedule release 2026: AI predicts every Week 1 game, matchups

After watching West Ham United win against Everton a week ago, I quietly considered that they had the character to survive this season.

But, having seen them lose at Brentford on Saturday, I have somewhat retreated from that thought process.

Let's be clear, West Ham would have won at Gtech Community Stadium on another day. They created more than enough chances and it is actually genuinely baffling that they didn't score at all.

But having been forthright in the first half, they lost their way after half-time.

The penalty they conceded was the start of a number of moments of ill-discipline, culminating in conceding a third goal which wasn't a good look for the Hammers' defence.

There was a feeling leaving the stadium that the feel-good factor Nuno Espirito Santo's side had built up had been popped, but we won't know how true that is until they face Arsenal next weekend.

Get a positive result in that game and the perception changes dramatically again.

Olympique Lyonnais are well on course to qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League. Real Madrid loanee Endrick (19) could yet stick around for the European campaign, as he revealed on Sunday night.

Endrick was struggling for game time at Real Madrid and, therefore, signed a short-term loan deal with Lyon in January. The Brazilian was convinced that, under fellow Lussophone Paulo Fonseca, he could get his career back on track. 

Since making the switch, he has scored the first hat-trick in his career, and in 19 games for OL, he has eight goals and seven assists. The expectation has always been that he would return to the Bernabeu at the end of the season. 

But after he helped OL beat Stade Rennais on Sunday night, he has put the club on the brink of UCL qualification. Endrick is not opposed to sticking around at the Groupama Stadium. “If I must go back to Real Madrid, I will; if I must extend here, I will extend here. I would like to stay here. They do everything to put me in the perfect conditions [to perform],” he told Ligue 1 Plus. It remains to be seen how Real Madrid view a potential extension to his current loan deal.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

UEFA have confirmed the refereeing team for Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg match against Atletico Madrid, coming up on Tuesday.

Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

UEFA have confirmed on their website that Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg match against Atletico Madrid will be refereed by an all-German officiating team.

Daniel Siebert will be the referee on the night, assisted by Jan Seidel and Rafael Foltyn, with Tobias Stieler as the fourth official.

Then Bastian Dankert will be on VAR, with Robert Schroder as the assistant VAR to complete the team of officials.

Photo by Martin Ole Wold/Getty Images

Siebert has refereed both teams on three previous occasions, with Arsenal having the better of the results so far.

Atletico lost to Liverpool, drew with Manchester City, and lost to Tottenham Hotspur during Siebert’s three matches officiating them, with the ref showing Antoine Griezmann a red card in the Liverpool game and awarding a penalty to Jurgen Klopp’s side.

Siebert also gave Spurs a penalty in their 3-2 win in March, but it’s worth remembering that Spurs’ win on the night was actually a defeat on aggregate.

As for Arsenal, Siebert refereed the Gunners’ 3-1 Europa League knockout win over Olympiacos, the 3-0 Champions League group stage win over GNK Dinamo, and the 1-0 quarter-final win over Sporting in April. But he didn’t award any penalties or red cards in those matches.

Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images

Arsenal fans will just be hoping for fair officiating this week, having seen David Hancko inexplicably avoid a red card for a last-man foul in the first leg, before having Eberechi Eze’s penalty overturned for no good reason.

But it’s always good to have some positive omens ahead of a big game, and Siebert’s record refereeing the two clubs is a good sign on that front.

Barcelona want to sign a new centre-back in the summer, but that may not be the only new defender added to Hansi Flick’s squad before the start of the 2026-27 season. This will almost certainly be the case if Joao Cancelo is not signed permanently, but even an agreement is reached with Al Hilal, there is scope for further reinforcements.

Cancelo has been a revelation on the left side of defence since joining in January, but Barcelona have struggled on the opposite flank. It has been a desperately disappointing season for starting right-back Jules Kounde, who has failed to get anywhere close to the form he showed during the 2024-25 campaign.

Barcelona have concerns about Kounde, and given that they have no natural backup, there are many chances for a right-back to be signed this summer. One option that is already being explored by sporting director Deco is Andrei Ratiu, who is a player that has been on the Portuguese’s radar for some time.

In 2025, Deco held talks with Ratiu’s representatives, although there was no significant moves made towards signing the Rayo Vallecano defender. 12 months on, he’s once again emerging as a key target for Barcelona, whose sporting department consider him to be an “interesting player profile”.

Ratiu can be signed for €25m

Barcelona have a good relationship with Rayo president Raul Martin Presa, and they could use this to steal a march on the other clubs that have Ratiu as a possible option for the summer. However, it’s believed that Los Franjirrojos could look to hold out for the Romania international’s €25m release clause, which could complicate things for the Catalans.

Barcelona want to spend big on signing a new centre-back and striker, and given their well-documented financial woes, they’re unlikely to be able to pay much more for further reinforcements. As such, it could be tricky for Ratiu to be signed this summer.

Q: What has been the Heat’s attitude about not choosing to draft Tyrese Maxey when he was available to them? – Lewis.

A: I’ve answered this many (many, many) times over the years, and the reality is that it arguably is the lone outlier in the Heat’s years of drafting the best available player. The 2020 offseason was like no other, with the pandemic bubble ending with the Heat in an NBA Finals that ended  on Oct. 11, 2020, that year’s draft on Nov. 18, free agency starting on Nov. 20, with the following season starting on Dec. 22. So the Heat basically stood at the moment without a power forward, with Jae Crowder moving on in free agency, and with Tyler Herro showing signs during those bubble playoffs at Disney of being a potential breakout star at shooting guard. (And, remember, that also was when Kendrick Nunn was coming off an All-Rookie season with the Heat.) So Precious Achiuwa and his intriguing game at power forward to the Heat at No. 20, and then Tyrese Maxey to the 76ers at No. 21. So. no, not necessarily the best player available, with Desmond Bane also going after Precious (at No. 30).

Related Articles

• Submit your “Ask Ira” question here!

Q: Ira, the Heat need a true power forward. Don’t tell us about the best player available. – Eddie.

A: First, thank you for the perfect timing in light of the question above. As much as the Heat have stressed taking the best available player, be it when Chet Kammerer was making the call or now Adam Simon, the tie seemingly goes to the area of need, which seemed like the case with Kel’el Ware in 2024 and the need for depth in the middle, and perhaps even last year with Kasparas Jakucionis and the questions at point guard. That said, if the Heat had a player ranked several spots ahead of either, such a player likely would have been the choice. But also nothing wrong with need being a tiebreaker.

Q: Ira, haven’t heard of any Heat lucky charms for the lottery. Didn’t they learn from Pat Williams (Lord rest his soul) that trinkets have value? – Rolf.

A: The Heat’s disdain for the lottery is such that lucky charms would almost be acknowledgement of needing help in the process of rebuilding. Plus, when you have a 1% chance of the top pick, there’s only so much the fates can do. God bless Pat Williams and how fate dealt him the lottery riches of Dwight Howard, Chris Webber (traded for Penny Hardaway) and Shaquille O’Neal. And yet, a Magic championship when?

Lane Kiffin under fire after wanting to turn back the clock on college football originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Lane Kiffin is still getting adjusted to being in Baton Rouge. The new LSU Tigers football coach, coming off his first spring practice session, had many takeaways about the state of the program.

One of the biggest was not having enough personnel on hand. Kiffin openly called for college football to revert to two transfer portal windows, which was a contributing factor to his success at Ole Miss. However, most coaches aren't okay with the shuffle of players in and out right after the annual spring game.

“I’ve been very open about that. I wish there was another (portal window),” Kiffin told reporters recently. “I’ve talked to other coaches about that, and coaches that have been somewhere 2-3 years feel differently because they like that they have their whole roster. … But in your first year, yeah, I don’t think many coaches would say that, but if they were honest, they’d probably say they wished there was (another) one.”

This comes after the NCAA did away with a second portal window with zero intentions of bringing it back. The single period happened Jan. 2-16 and didn't lead to unnecessary transactions. While players can't move around like they used to before the start of the season, having stability is key for coaches.

While Kiffin likely won't get his wish of a second transfer window, there could be an extended timeframe to a month or so. That's more likely to happen than going around twice with players only being onboard for an offseason conditioning session.

Kiffin was met with resistance by college football analyst David Pollack, who challenged him head on about the difficulty of a second transfer period.

More: Shedeur Sanders is all over social media after Colorado GPA surfaces

“Nobody wants this," Pollack said on his podcast. "Lane does, and maybe some (first-year) coaches do. But do we want this madness? How would that work? (First-year coaches) can go pillage other rosters, but nobody else can replenish their rosters? That doesn’t make sense to me. I don’t want any part of that.

Kiffin lived in the portal this year, pulling in a class highlighted by some top-tier talent, including five-star quarterback Sam Leavitt from Arizona State. He tried to bring several players with him from Ole Miss, but the majority of the team stayed with Pete Golding after the College Football Playoff run. 

More LSU Tigers news: 

• Lane Kiffin breaks down Sam Leavitt's impact at LSU
• Brian Kelly lands new job following LSU firing
• Lane Kiffin tried to leave Ole Miss in 2024 for 'another' job, says former coach
• Former Ole Miss star player follows Lane Kiffin in latest move
• Demond Williams bombshell could have resulted in Lane Kiffin being fired by LSU

After a highly entertaining 5-4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final in France last week, Bayern Munich return to the Allianz Arena for the decisive second leg on Wednesday.

Bayern found themselves three goals down at one stage in the first meeting, but fought back with two late goals to set up a 5-4 scoreline and leave everything up for grabs ahead of the return in Munich.

Both camps have made clear there is no intention to alter their attacking approach, meaning fans could once again be in for a spectacular encounter as the two European heavyweights meet again.

“We're two sides that want to attack. We won't change our philosophy. We want to attack and so do they, so I think a great game is in the offing,” said PSG's Ousmane Dembele after the first leg.

Bayern coach Vincent Kompany is hoping home advantage can provide the decisive edge to send his side into the final.

“We're against the best side in Europe, because they're the reigning champions. The result is still in the balance. But we need the stadium to have an impact; it's a legendary place, where this club has achieved so many great things. We can't hope for anything better. We'll take what we have, and we'll work on what we can do better,” he said ahead of the return leg.

With the Bundesliga title already secured, Kompany made several changes for Saturday’s league clash with bottom-placed Heidenheim. However, after Bayern went into half-time trailing 2-1, he introduced Harry Kane, Luis Díaz, Michael Olise and Joshua Kimmich for the second half, with the match ultimately ending 3-3.

Similarly, PSG coach Luis Enrique also rotated his squad, as the French champions drew 2-2 with Lorient in Ligue 1.

Team news and predicted lineups:

Serge Gnabry (thigh) and Raphaël Guerreiro (hamstring) remain unavailable for Bayern Munich, but young midfielders Tom Bischof and Lennart Karl are expected to return to the squad after spells on the sidelines.

Paris Saint-Germain, meanwhile, suffered a significant setback in the first leg, as right-back Achraf Hakimi sustained a hamstring injury that has ruled him out of the return fixture in Munich. His absence could see Warren Zaïre-Emery drop into defence, allowing Fabián Ruiz to join Vitinha and João Neves in midfield.

The French champions are also without second-choice goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, but otherwise have a full squad available for the second leg.

Click here to see our predicted Bayern Munich vs. PSG lineups.

The Kansas City Chiefs have done well in the undrafted free agent market during the Brett Veach era as general manager. Many players over the past few seasons have made significant contributions to Super Bowl title runs, adding to the belief that the draft doesn't end after round 7.

Byron Pringle was a former undrafted free agent signing out of Kansas State in 2018. He suffered an injury in the 2018 preseason and was stashed on injured reserve all year. He surprised many in 2019, making the initial 53-man roster for the Chiefs, primarily as a special teamer, but he eventually emerged as a reliable receiver.

Chiefs Wire's Ed Easton Jr. spoke with Pringle in 2021 about his chemistry with Patrick Mahomes as an undrafted free agent wide receiver.

"It's a blessing to work with a guy like that because, you know, he can scan plays downfield. You know, you got to keep running and keep your eyes on the quarterback and be prepared to catch any ball," said Pringle, "No matter how it gets delivered to you, just know, just be prepared for how a ball will come your way at any moment. So just be prepared for that."

Pringle remained a key depth option for the team, playing both as a receiver and kick returner. He'd appear in 46 career regular-season games with the Chiefs, starting in eight games. Pringle won two Lamar Hunt Trophies and Super Bowl LIV with Kansas City. He also earned sponsorship with the "Pringles" potato chip brand, further demonstrating his value despite never being an NFL Draft selection.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs have a productive history of adding undrafted free agents

Today in Boston Celtics history, the storied ball club selected four notable players in the 1964 NBA Draft, which took place in New York City, as was typical during that era. However, they did not draft future Celtics champion forward Paul Silas, who was instead picked up by the then St. Louis Hawks (now Atlanta) in the second round of the draft with the 10th overall pick (the draft consisted of many more rounds in that era).

Silas played for the Hawks in St. Louis, and after they moved to Atlanta, Georgia as well as the Phoenix Suns before being dealt to Boston in the spring of 1972.

There, he won two banners, be elected to multiple All-Defensive teams, and an All-Star Game -- among many other honors.

Transactions

Boston instead took Joe Strawder with the 34th pick out of Bradley, but the big man never suited up for the Celtics. He was instead sent to the Detroit Pistons, where he played three seasons. The Celtics also drafted Ron Bonham out of Cincinnati with the 16th pick. Bonham won two rings with Boston, in 1965 and 1966 -- his sole two seasons with the team. He averaged 6.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per game over that stretch. Boston selected big man Mel Counts with the seventh overall pick out of Oregon State, and Counts also won two titles with the Celtics, again in 1965 and 1966. He played just those two seasons with Boston, recording 6.8 points, 5.8 boards, and 0.6 assists per contest.

Finally, the Celtics drafted center John Thompson, who also played just two seasons with Boston, both banner years, again in 1965 and 1966. Thompson went on to have a Hall of Fame coaching career immediately after retiring as a player in 1966, averaging 3.5 points, as many boards, and 0.3 assists per game as a Celtic.

It was on this date in 1999 that the team cut Garnett from the roster -- though not the one you are likely thinking of. Guard Marlon Garnett -- no relation to KG -- was waived by the team after a 24-game stint in the 1998-99 NBA season. The Santa Clara alum averaged 2.1 points per game over that stretch.

That same day, Boston signed guard Damon Jones to a rest-of-season deal after the Galveston native played well through a pair of 10-day deals. The former Houston floor general played just 13 games total for the team, logging 5.8 points, 2.4 boards, and 2.2 assists per game as a Celtic.

Gone too soon

Sadly, it is also the day in 1993 that we lost small forward Frank Kudelka. An alum of Saint Mary's College of California, Kudelka was signed by the (now defunct) Chicago Stags in 1950 and was picked up by the (also defunct) Washington Capitals in the Stags dispersal draft when that team folded in 1950, only to be picked up by the Celtics a year later when the Capitals went belly up.

Kudelka played just 27 games with Boston before the team sold his contract to the (ALSO defunct) Baltimore Bullets in 1951, recording 4.7 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game while with Boston. Rest in peace.

This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Celtics history: Thompson, Counts, Bonham draft; Garnett cut; Jones signs

Penn State football will have a completely overhauled roster to get to know in 2026 under new head coach Matt Campbell. Following one of the most active offseasons in recent memory for Penn State with a flurry of activity in the transfer portal, fans will have a lot of catching up to do in getting to know this year's Penn State roster. Fortunately, not every face will be brand new to fans. Regardless, we will be here to give you a fresh overview of every player on the roster for the 2026 season with a series of player profiles.

From all of the returning players, a long list of new faces from the transfer portal, and incoming recruits from the Class of 2026, we will have you covered with this year's player profiles for the Penn State roster. Here is a quick look at cornerback Jahmir Joseph for the 2026 season.

Preseason Player Profile

• Hometown: Nyack, New York
• Height: 6-0
• Weight: 190 lbs
• Class in 2026: Redshirt Freshman

Recruiting Rankings

Class of 2025: Consensus 4-star, No. 27 ranked cornerback, per 247Sports

A number of other big schools, like Ohio State and Oregon, were in play for Jahmir Joseph. Thankfully, Penn State seemed to be the only school he ever really considered, and he committed without ever giving those schools a visit.

Career Stats

The four-star cornerback didn’t get to play much in his freshman season, but he was unleashed in the Pinstripe Bowl. Finishing the year with seven tackles, one interception, and one pass breakup, Joseph had five tackles and his only pass breakup in the Bowl game.

Depth Chart Overview

Considered one of the best defensive backs in his class, the Nittany Lions have high hopes for Joseph. He won’t just be handed a big role in the secondary, but he has more than enough talent to emerge as a high-level starter, or a mainstay of the cornerback rotation at the very least.

Random Fact

Joseph played basketball in high school, earning First-Team All-League honors.

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This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: 2026 Penn State football: Jahmir Joseph player profile

The Indianapolis Colts entered the recent 2026 NFL Draft with a laundry list of items to cross off their to-do list, but a couple of the biggest ones remain unaccomplished.

Two of the team's most notable veterans, quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. and cornerback Kenny Moore II, are on the trade block after requesting trades this offseason, but the draft came and went without either player being moved.

Colts general manager Chris Ballard was asked about the situations for both players ahead of the draft.

"They're different in my mind, because Kenny, in his mind, it's time for – it's kind of time for a change. Anthony is a little different," Ballard said. "I still think Anthony has real value in this league, and I've been happy with his growth. And he's an extremely talented young man. So, I think it's a different – I think those are case by case and those are two different cases."

Ballard then said he would give Moore "some latitude" to explore his options if a trade didn't come about, but later said, "I'm not at that point right now," when asked whether the team would outright release either player if not traded.

After the draft, Ballard was asked if anything came up for Richardson and Moore by that point on the market, and he said, "Nothing yet, no. Nothing yet."

With the future of Richardson and Moore up in the air, they were obvious inclusions to the trade block big board, put together by Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox:

QB Anthony Richardson Sr.

Projected Trade Value: Conditional 2027 5th-round pick

Potential Suitors: Arizona Cardinals, New York Jets

"While Richardson hasn't played up to his draft status in his three seasons, he's only 23 years old and possesses an ideal blend of size (6'4", 244 lbs), athleticism, and arm talent," Knox wrote. "Given the recent resurgence of quarterbacks like Jones, Sam Darnold, and Baker Mayfield, a team should be willing to take a flier on Richardson.

"Specifically, Richardson should interest teams without a defined quarterback plan that may be looking for a signal-caller in the 2027 draft. A QB-need team could get him into camp, give him a look on the practice field, and possibly give him an audition during the season before committing to a rookie a year from now."

"Even teams that dipped into the underwhelming 2026 quarterback class should consider adding Richardson to the competition," Knox concluded.

Richardson is said to prefer a trade destination with a known quarterback developer on the coaching staff. After completing just over 50% of his career passes through his first three years, it appears Richardson may want a bit of refining in his game before finding his next true opportunity to play.

Knox lists the Cardinals and Jets as potential destinations, but both teams recently drafted young quarterbacks to develop.

CB Kenny Moore II

Projected Trade Value: 2027 6th-round pick

Potential Suitors: Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers

"Moore is entering a contract year, and the Colts could save $7.1 million by trading him," Knox said. "While draft weekend felt like an opportune time for Moore to find a new team, neither he nor Richardson was dealt.

"Moore will turn 31 in August, but played reasonably well in 2025, allowing an opposing passer rating of 87.8 in coverage. He'd be a sensible target for teams that failed to add a corner early in the draft."

Initially, Moore was thought to be a great fit in Lou Anarumo's new Colts defense in 2025, but the amount of man coverage desired was not well-suited to Moore's cerebral game.

At this point in his career, Moore would best fit a defense that would ask him to rely more on his mental makeup rather than playing straight-up man coverage. Using his instincts and reading the offense is where he flourishes.

Caitlin Clark is undoubtedly the most high-profile player in the WNBA. However, according to ESPN, she’s nowhere near that best.

After a sensational, record-breaking rookie season that saw her earn an All-Star nod as well as the league’s Rookie of the Year award, Clark’s second season in the WNBA did not go quite as planned. Not only did Clark’s stats drop across the board, but she also spent a significant portion of the season sidelined with an injury.

Now, Clark is looking to bounce back this season, but she seems to have lost quite a bit of the momentum and hype she had with the media.

Ahead of the 2026 WNBA season, ESPN released a set of power rankings, ranking the top 50 players in the league. While Clark might be the face of the league, she came in at just No. 10 on the list.

“Clark received the fourth-most MVP votes as a rookie while setting a single-season league record for assists and posting the second-most 3-point field goals in a season,” ESPN wrote of Clark.

“She became one of the league’s best passers and long-range shooters the moment she stepped onto a WNBA court, and was just getting started when she was named Rookie of the Year and first-team all-WNBA in 2024. Injuries limited her to only 13 games in 2025, but she was still named an All-Star,” the ESPN blurb continued.

Ranked ahead of Clark was Los Angeles Sparks star Kelsey Plum at No. 9, reigning Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings at No. 8, Atlanta Dream star Allisha Gray at No. 7, New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu at No. 6, Las Vegas Aces star Jackie Young at No. 5, New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart at No. 4, Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier at No. 3, Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas at No. 2, and reigning MVP A’ja Wilson at No. 1.

Needless to say, Clark’s ranking quickly sparked outrage amongst WNBA fans, who expressed their displeasure on social media.

“I love Paige, but how is she ahead of CC after one yr? Caitlin’s rookie year was better than hers if we’re going based off one season. Literally none of the four players ahead of CC make any sense,” one fan wrote in a post on X.

“Paige Bueckers, Jackie Young, Sabrina Ionescu, Alisha Gray even Alyssa Thomas are not above CC. What is this harebrained nonsense?” someone else wrote in another post.

“This is mad disrespectful. Imagine ESPN treating LeBron or Jordan like this when he was playing,” someone else added.

“So Caitlin is 10 because of Injuries last season??? Despite winning MVP for USA??” someone else questioned.

“This is all so unserious,” another person commented.

Needless to say, fans were not exactly happy about Clark’s ranking. We’ll have to see whether or not she can prove ESPN wrong this upcoming season.

The post ESPN sparks outrage with ‘disrespectful’ Caitlin Clark move appeared first on The Comeback: Today’s Top Sports Stories & Reactions.

Where to watch Hearts vs. Rangers live stream, TV channel, start time for Scottish Premiership match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A highly anticipated matchup comes to Tynecastle Park Monday as Hearts and Rangers go head-to-head in a Scottish Premiership match.

These two clubs lead the Premiership table with Hearts in first and Rangers third, though only four points separate them. Hearts have struggled in recent weeks, winning only two of their last five across all competitions. Hearts' recent 1-0 win over Hibernian might've been the confidence push they needed to perform in this potential title-decider. 

Rangers have had many ups and downs this season, mostly centered around a coaching change that brought in German Danny Rohl. Rohl turned things around at Ibrox, and Rangers have subsequently flown up the rankings. While the Glasgow club are the underdog here, they could dismantle the Premiership title race. 

Who will prevail at Tynecastle Park?

Here's everything you need to know about Hearts vs. Rangers, including TV channel and streaming options for the Scottish Premiership match.

Hearts vs. Rangers live stream, TV channel

Here's how to watch this match in the U.S.:

• TV channel: CBS Sports Network
• Live stream: fubo

This game will be available to stream on fubo in the U.S.

It has also been selected for TV coverage on CBS Sports Network.

Fubo offers a FREE trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

What time does Hearts vs. Rangers kick off?

This Scottish Premiership clash takes place at Tynecastle Park in Edinburgh, Scotland and kicks off on Monday, May 4 at 5:30 p.m. local time.

Here's how that time translates across the United States:

Scottish Premiership fixture schedule this week

Monday, May 4

• Hearts vs. Rangers (12:30 p.m. ET)

Saturday, May 9

• Aberdeen vs. Dundee United (10 a.m. ET)
• Dundee vs. Livingston (10 a.m. ET)
• Falkirk vs. Hibernian (10 a.m. ET)
• St Mirren vs. Kilmarnock (10 a.m. ET)
• Motherwell vs. Hearts (3 p.m. ET)

Sunday, May 10

• Celtic vs. Rangers (7 a.m. ET)

Related Links

• Latest men's soccer news and rumors
• Latest women's soccer news and rumors
• How to bet on Soccer

CLEVELAND — Reputations don’t change overnight, especially ones built through years of playoff failures.

The Cleveland Cavaliers didn’t alter how they were perceived with a gutsy 114-102 Game 7 win over the Toronto Raptors. They did, however, show that they don’t have to be defined by previous postseason letdowns.

Jarrett Allen was the exact opposite of the caricature he’s been made out to be. He was the toughest player on the court on Sunday with the way he thoroughly dominated the paint on both ends of the floor.

Defensively, Allen made it impossible for Toronto to finish inside.

He cut off both passing and driving lanes with his activity on defense, resulting in three blocks and two steals. Allen did this while grabbing 25% of missed shots himself when he was on the floor, translating to 19 rebounds.

This all added up to Cleveland having an impressive 101.4 defensive rating with him playing.

That impact carried to the other end of the floor as well.

Allen played with a forcefulness that Toronto couldn’t match. Every cut, screen, or drive to the hoop was made with an effort that we don’t always see from Allen, but when he has few can stop.

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Head coach Kenny Atkinson saw a game like this coming with the way Allen looked in pregame intros.

“He was flying around,” Atkinson said. “Normally, he’s enthusiastic, but it was like, ‘Man, what got into this guy?’ But he was ready for the moment.”

Allen’s game is momentum-based. When he starts to see a few go through, his energy and effort continue to rise. That’s what we saw, especially in the third quarter. He finished the evening with 22 points on 7-8 shooting in the restricted area with eight huge offensive rebounds.

There was a simple message still written on the Cavs’ whiteboard after Game 7: “Win the possession game again!” Underneath that was a box with +9 in it, signaling how much they won that category.

The guards did a good job of limiting turnovers, but the real difference maker was Allen’s offensive rebounding.

Allen’s lowest playoff moment came when he couldn’t keep Mitchell Robinson and the New York Knicks off the glass three years ago. That was one of the many reasons Cleveland lost that first-round series so convincingly. It’s also where Allen made the infamous reference to the lights being “brighter than expected.”

This game was the exact opposite.

Allen wasn’t the one getting pushed off his spots; he was the one moving defenders out of the way and breaking their spirit in the second half.

This one game doesn’t change who Allen is moving forward. In basketball and in life, you continually need to confront and overcome the same problems.

Allen conquering his previous challenges is emblematic of the team as a whole.

In this series, the Cavs repeatedly showed that they can meet the moment. RJ Barrett’s game-winning three in Game 6 that hung in the air for eternity before falling through might’ve broken previous versions of this team. It didn’t for this one.

Every time they had a chance to collapse after a bad break, they picked themselves back up and continued fighting. That’s something that we haven’t consistently seen before and will help them in the postseason.

“I’m proud of our group,” Max Strus said after an impressive game of his own.

“Overcoming adversity, losing, coming back from it, showing some toughness, showing some character, showing some resilience. I think it’s going to be awesome for us to go through that. Now that we’ve gone through it, we know what it takes to get over the hump. I think it’ll be better for us in the next rounds.”

That is undeniably true.

However, it’s also true that the Cavs proved their loudest critics right on multiple occasions over the last two weeks. Mental mistakes, such as struggling to get the ball over half court late in games, cost them both Game 4 and Game 6. Championship-level teams can’t afford to give away road games, especially not two in similar ways.

The Cavs are both the team that showed they don’t have to be defined by their postseason failures, and that what has led to them can pop up at any moment. The first option wasn’t there for previous groups. That, more than anything, is reason to be optimistic if you want to be.

Talent has never been the problem with the Cavs.

The pieces are in place for a deep postseason run. The issue, both individually and as a collective, lies in rising to the occasion in the biggest moments.

Allen isn’t the only one who’s earned the reputation as a playoff failure. He’s on the same team as James Harden — the modern superstar most known for falling short in the clutch — and Donovan Mitchell — someone who hasn’t gotten out of the second round in his previous eight postseason attempts. Both will have to defeat their demons if this team is going to get over the hump.

Luckily for them, Allen provided the roadmap for doing so.

“I always feel like in this league, when you get a certain label, it always sticks with you no matter what,” Allen said. “No matter how hard you try to change it, it’s always going to follow you around. I think that if I…want to change the narrative that was placed on me…that’s going to weaken my strengths going forward and always try to weigh me back.

“I’ve always been the guy that always just moves forward. Things happen in the past that go my way, that don’t go my way. It’s just part of playing basketball, being at the professional level. [All I can do is] just be my best going forward.”

If Harden, Mitchell, and the rest of the team can continue following Allen’s example and just be their best going forward, then maybe this group can accomplish something meaningful.

DLSS 4.5 Dynamic Frame Generation has arrived in Crimson Desert With Crimson Desert update 1.05, the game now supports DLSS Dynamic Frame Generation on PC. This appears to be a first for PC games, as until now, DLSS Dynamic Frame Generation has only been available in games through Nvidia App game overrides. DLSS Dynamic Frame […]

The post Crimson Desert gains DLSS Dynamic Frame Generation support on PC appeared first on OC3D.

The launch of the PlayStation 5 Pro marked the debut of AI-powered upscaling in the console space with PSSR. While the upscaler's latest version significantly improves image quality over its launch iteration, there's a very strong chance that, on PlayStation 6, the upscaler will also deliver AI-powered frame generation, judging from the LinkedIn profile of a Senior Research Scientist at Sony Interactive Entertainment. As spotted by MP1st, Ayan Kumar Bhunia has been working on Machine Learning and Computer Vision for SIE since December 2023. One of the highlights of their experience at the company is having "spearheaded core research behind […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/playstation-6-pssr-frame-gen-doubles-down/

It looks like Take-Two and Rockstar Games are both pushing to avoid a third GTA 6 delay. Just last week, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick shrugged off delay rumors, pointing out that many people will likely take a sick day on November 19, the current release date for Grand Theft Auto 6. The toll of this final push, however, may weigh heavily on employees. On Glassdoor, a website that allows verified employees to anonymously publish reviews of their own companies, two reviews were posted last week noting this very issue. The first one went live on April 30. A former game […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/gta-6-crunch-rockstar-qa-november-deadline/

RealtyKit bundles AI prompts, templates, and scripts that help real estate agents create listing descriptions, stage photos, nurture leads, and film social videos faster. Paste property details to get MLS-ready copy, use over 200 Midjourney and ChatGPT staging prompts, and add 52-week email sequences to your CRM. The vault delivers viral TikTok/Reel scripts plus FSBO and expired listing scripts, with instant digital access and lifetime updates. It works with ChatGPT, Midjourney, and other models, turning hours of work into seconds.

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AgentSolar is a data-driven AI platform that helps homeowners find the right solar solution at the right price. Trained on millions of solar quotes, it sets fair prices, analyzes quotes, benchmarks them against real market data, and can negotiate better deals so you don’t overpay.

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Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/uae-joins-turkey-jordan-qatar-bahrain-kuwait-and-more-nations-in-middle-east-facing-heightened-threats-of-war-as-us-prepares-to-resume-conflict-with-the-iran-triggering-a-severe-impact-on-region/

UAE Joins Turkey, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, And More Nations In Middle East Facing Heightened Threats Of War As US...

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Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/us-joins-uae-saudi-arabia-uk-germany-india-thailand-and-more-as-surging-fuel-prices-amid-continued-strait-of-hormuz-crisis-triggers-hospitality-collapse-job-losses-travel-demand-crash-and-globa/

US Joins UAE, Saudi Arabia, UK, Germany, India, Thailand and More as Surging Fuel Prices Amid Continued Strait of Hormuz...

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Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/emirates-skycargo-opens-new-travel-route-to-toronto-pearson-connecting-global-markets/

Emirates SkyCargo Opens New Travel Route to Toronto Pearson, Connecting Global MarketsEmirates SkyCargo expands its global reach with a new...

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Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/tourism-in-bali-to-lead-circular-economy-revolution-how-sustainable-practices-will-transform-travel-experiences-and-beyond/

Tourism in Bali to Lead Circular Economy Revolution: How Sustainable Practices Will Transform Travel Experiences and BeyondTourism in Bali is...

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Samsung’s Media Player is about to grab a color-driven redesign in the One UI 9 update. Samsung has upgraded this aspect in the One UI 8.5, which is expected to start rolling out to Galaxy S25 smartphone users this week.

One UI 9 is based on Android 17, and Samsung is preparing a color-packed redesign for the Media Player. Some users have installed the firmware on their devices, with TarunVats bringing fans early looks at the upcoming changes.

At present, Galaxy’s Media Player features a static and predictable look.

Samsung really nailed the little details here. The new seek bar now pulls colors straight from the album art of whatever you’re playing. Put on a smooth jazz track with cool blue tones, and the UI subtly shifts to match that vibe.

Switch over to a bright, punchy pop song, and everything updates instantly. It’s a small touch on paper, but in everyday use, it makes the lock screen and notifications feel way more alive and in sync with what you’re listening to.

Media Player is the aspect we see more often than others. Reinventing its user interface is a bold decision to make. Samsung is finally putting efforts in the right spots, which directly influence the software’s boldness.

Samsung is internally working on One UI 9, with the Public Beta testing expected to launch by the end of May or the beginning of June. The new software will first land on the Galaxy S26 series, while its official debut is likely in late July.

The post One UI 9 gives the Media Player a color-driven redesign appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather may rematch in just a few months’ time, eleven years on from their first record-breaking contest. Shane Mosley, who faced both, gives one man the edge. Mosley faced Mayweather in 2010 and made a fast start, buckling Floyd’s knees in the second round thus becoming the first man to truly […]

The post Shane Mosley picks a winner in Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2: “I give him the edge this time” appeared first on Boxing News.

Juventus forması giyen milli futbolcumuz Kenan Yıldız, bugün 21 yaşına girdi. İtalyan ekibinin Teknik Direktörü Luciano Spalletti ise konuya ilginç bir yorum getirdi.

Hem Juventus hem de A Milli Takım'la çok iyi performanslar sergileyen Kenan Yıldız, bugün itibarıyla 21 yaşına girdi. 1.87 boyundaki futbolcu, günün neşesini yaşarken Juventus Teknik Direktörü Luciano Spalletti'den konuyla ilgili çarpıcı bir yorum geldi...

ORTALAMANIN ÜZERİNDE

Tecrübeli çalıştırıcı, "Ortalamanın üzerinde bir olgunluğa sahip olduğu için çoğu zaman yaşını unutuyoruz. Kenan çok genç ve inanılmaz bir futbolcu... İnsanlar onu bazen çılgınca eleştirebiliyor. Fakat önünde uzun seneler var ve gittikçe daha da iyi olacak" ifadelerini kullandı.

ARDA GÜLER'DEN GENÇ!

Birçok insan Kenan'ın, Arda Güler'den daha büyük olduğunu düşünüyor. İki genç yeteneğimiz de 2005 doğumlu... Fakat Kenan 4 Mayıs, Arda Güler ise 25 Şubat'ta dünyaya geldi. Yani ay bakımından Arda daha büyük! Dünya Kupası'nda her ikisinden de önemli işler bekliyoruz. Önümüzdeki turnuvalarda da bizim açımızdan kritik görevler üstlenecekler.