Preplo turns cooking videos from YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram into clear, actionable recipes. Paste a link and its AI parses transcripts or descriptions to extract ingredients, quantities, cost estimates, and timed steps you can follow in full-screen cook mode. Generate smart shopping lists, track a weekly cooking streak, and adapt recipes to your needs. Start free with limited extractions or upgrade for unlimited extractions, advanced features, and priority support. Available on iOS, with Android coming soon.
REAIGENT7 gives real estate agents their own listing platform with AI that answers buyer questions 24/7, captures leads, and routes every inquiry directly to your REAIGENT7 dashboard or your CRM. Build professional property pages in minutes, share anywhere, and keep your brand front and center.
Manage leads in a simple dashboard, move them through stages, and get follow-up reminders. Generate listing descriptions and social posts with one click, track showings and open house sign-ins, and grow your pipeline without portals or referral fees.
Dell’s supercapacitor-powered keyboard and mouse deliver ultra-fast charging and long usage, redefining convenience and eliminating reliance on traditional batteries.
Flipboard's social websites consolidate profiles and posts from Bluesky, Mastodon, Threads, YouTube, podcasts, blogs, and RSS feeds into a single, shared destination.
Soluna expanded into artificial intelligence in 2024 to shore up declining revenues from its crypto mining business, mirroring an industry-wide shift toward AI workloads.
Gaming handhelds are mainly used for action games and relaxed indie adventures. However, the Steam Deck is surprisingly well suited to real-time strategy games such as Stronghold - so well, in fact, that I have already played over 600 hours of RTS games on the Steam Deck.
Google is now offering a brand new USB dongle that promises to get an old laptop up and running again for just $3. The dongle is now available with free shipping and is compatible with both Windows laptops and MacBooks.
The Oppo Find X9 Ultra has appeared on Geekbench ahead of its global launch. The phone features the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset along with 12GB of RAM.
PlayStation 3 emulator RPCS3 has completed the first wave of updates to its brand new controller UI, which resembles Steam Big Picture and is considered "the Handheld Experience."
Deal | The Casio AQ-230A-7D watch is now 32% off. The digital-analog watch features dual time, a 1/100-second stopwatch, up to 3 years of battery life, an auto calendar, and a day and date display at 6 o'clock. On top of this, it has a stainless steel band with an adjustable clasp.
Citizen just introduced the NJ0240-55L, a 40 mm automatic watch with its in-house Caliber 8210 movement, 40-hour reserve, and 50 m water resistance. It sticks to basic entry-level specs, and it's more about reliability and everyday usability.
An affordable e-reader with a 3.7-inch e-ink display and a weight of 58 grams could hardly be more portable - the Xteink X3 aims to win over bookworms with its compact body. The e-reader can be attached to the back of a smartphone using integrated magnets.
Later this year, Huawei is expected to unveil the successor to its Mate X7 that came out last year. This new foldable is said to pack a larger main display, even larger than its predecessor and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8.
The rising cost of memory chips in the last year or so has forced manufacturers of electronic goods to come up with various strategies to offset the burden, especially smartphone makers that have a portfolio of low-end to mid-range devices. Bumping up the price of more affordable devices could potentially spell trouble. This doesn't necessarily apply to the high-end smartphones, where manufacturers are more inclined to shift the cost to consumers.
A report from a Korean publication DealSite suggests that Samsung swapped out its homemade OLED panels in some of its mid-range models,...
Following the departure of Mohamed Salah, Liverpool will be forced to look for a replacement in the summer transfer market. Because of this, the Reds are reportedly targeting Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig in a €100 million move.
After a season full of controversies, Mohamed Salah has decided to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, following a historic tenure at Anfield. Because of this, the Reds will be forced to look for a replacement in the summer. While he is still a young prospect, they have supposedly decided to pursue Yan Diomande. However, they would have to pay a €100 million transfer fee to RB Leipzig.
According to Florian Plettenberg, via X (formerly Twitter), Liverpool are closely monitoring the development of Yan Diomande, maintaining constant contact with his agents. Despite this, RB Leipzig remain determined to keep the 19-year-old star, aiming to offer him a new contract along with a performance-based salary increase. However, they would be open to his departure for offers exceeding €100 million.
Yan Diomande has managed to impress with his performances in the Bundesliga. In the current season, the Ivorian has scored 11 goals and provided 8 assists in 29 matches, making him the second top scorer and the top assist provider. His impact goes beyond the statistics, as his pace and dribbling are decisive, creating space for his teammates. Moreover, he is only 19 years old, so he could lead the Reds for more than a decade.
Despite his huge impact, Diomande is still far from being one of the best players in the world. If Liverpool sign him, they will be betting on his room for growth, which points to world-class potential. However, the Cameroonian does not surpass the impact that Salah has had, having scored 10 goals and provided 9 assists in 34 games in one of his ‘worst’ seasons with the team. Because of this, the Reds would need to be patient.
Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig gestures during the Bundesliga match.
Jeremie Frimpong could also be key at Liverpool’s right wing
Targeting a replacement for Salah, Liverpool appear determined to sign a promising right winger, also with an eye on long-term performance. In addition, Federico Chiesa is also expected to leave the team, leaving Harvey Elliott on the way out as well. Given this situation, Jeremie Frimpong could play a key role as a right winger, serving as direct competition for Yan Diomande.
Throughout the current season, coach Arne Slot has chosen on several occasions to deploy Frimpong as a right winger. Taking advantage of his pace and excellent dribbling, the Reds have had a strong alternative to open up space in the opposition’s defense. The Dutchman may not score many goals, but he does have great vision and passing ability, which adds different dimensions to the team’s play.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool and Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig.
Javier Mascherano spoke about Lionel Messi ahead of the clash between Inter Miami and Austin FC.
Inter Miami are set to face Austin FC this Saturday in the opening of the Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park, for Matchday 6 of Major League Soccer.Lionel Messi’s availability was addressed by coach Javier Mascherano.
The Argentine forward did not join Thursday’s training session with his teammates, raising concerns about his participation in Saturday’s game. However, the coach offered a reassuring explanation.
“We had it already planned that way,” Mascherano began during the press conference, shared by reporter Jose Armando on X. “Leo is fine. We’re simply taking the usual care with him, as we do with everyone.”
Mascherano then explained that the differentiated exercises Messi completed during training, alongside Noah Allen and Alex Shaw, were due to their recent game load during the March FIFA break: “They are the three players who played on Tuesday and had the most minutes. Less than 48 hours have passed since they finished playing; we just wanted them to move a little in a regenerative way.”
Lionel Messi of Argentina greets Thiago Almada during the international friendly match against Zambia on Tuesday.
Inter Miami receive good news
The situation with Messi, as well as Allen and Shaw, does not raise any concerns for Inter Miami ahead of upcoming matches. Additionally, the other players who represented their national teams during the FIFA break in recent days are also in perfect condition.
“The rest of the players who played had fewer minutes. Or, like in the case of Telasco (Segovia), they played on Monday,” Javier Mascherano explained in the same press conference. “All of them are in good condition.”
With that in mind, the Herons have positive prospects ahead of Saturday’s clash against Austin FC. According to reporter Jose Armando, two of the players who had recent physical issues—Maximiliano Falcon and Sergio Reguilon—participated in Thursday’s session alongside the rest of the squad. The only player missing full training was Facundo Mura, who completed differentiated exercises.
Falcon has been out of action since March 11, when he was substituted in the opening minutes of the first leg against Nashville SC in the Concacaf Champions Cup. Reguilon, meanwhile, had to leave in the first half of the second leg on March 18 and had not played since.
Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano of Inter Miami.
Galatasaray'da Trabzonspor deplasmanı öncesi Okan Buruk'un planları netleşmeye başladı. Ailevi sorunları için aldığı izin sonrası İstanbul'a dönen ve ayağının tozuyla antrenmana çıkan Icardi, Okan Buruk ile yaptığı özel görüşmede 'hazırım' mesajı verdi. Leroy Sane'nin cezası sonrası Barış Alper Yılmaz'ın kanat gücünden vazgeçmek istemeyen Buruk, fiziksel eksikliğine rağmen Arjantinli yıldızı ilk 11'e monte etme kararı aldı. Noa Lang sürpriziyle hücum hattını zenginleştirmeyi planlayan tecrübe teknik adamın Icardi ısrarının arkasında yatan 3 kritik neden ve yönetimden gelen 'ahde vefa' açıklaması dikkat çekici.
Galatasaray, zorlu Trabzon deplasmanına hazırlanırken, Kemerburgaz'dan gelen haberler taraftarı heyecanlandırdı. Ailevi sebeplerle izinli olan ve Pazartesi günü İstanbul’a dönerek ayağının tozuyla antrenmana çıkan Mauro Icardi, hırsı ve neşesiyle teknik heyetin yüzünü güldürdü.
OKAN BURUK'A GÜVEN AŞILADI
Antrenman sahasına yansıyan görüntülerde oldukça keyifli olduğu gözlenen Icardi, teknik direktör Okan Buruk ile özel bir görüşme gerçekleştirdi. Arjantinli yıldızın, kendisine gösterilen hoşgörü ve hassasiyet için teşekkür ederek; "Trabzon’da en iyi performansımla sahada olup bu güvenin karşılığını vereceğim" mesajını ilettiği öğrenildi.
LEROY SANE'NİN YOKLUĞU SIKINTI
Osimhen’in yokluğunda Icardi’nin durumu merak edilirken, Okan Buruk’un yıldız golcüyü antrenman eksiğine rağmen ilk 11’de sahaya sürmesine kesin gözüyle bakılıyor.
Leroy Sane’nin cezasının onanmasıyla kanat rotasyonunda daralma yaşayan sarı-kırmızılılarda teknik direktör Okan Buruk, Barış Alper Yılmaz’ı forvet yerine sağ kanatta kullanarak oyuncunun kreatif gücünden maksimum verim almayı hedefliyor.
Şampiyonluk yolunda son 8 haftaya girilirken, Icardi gibi bir liderin kulübede oturmasının oyuncu motivasyonunu olumsuz etkileyebileceği de düşünülüyor. Teknik heyet, büyük oyuncuların derbi ve kritik deplasmanlarda ekstra motive olduğu gerçeğinden hareketle Icardi’nin tecrübesine güveniyor.
BİR DE GABRIEL SARA'NIN DURUMU VAR
Kadrodaki diğer önemli detay ise Noa Lang’ın durumu. Okan Buruk, Hollandalı yıldızın performans verilerini inceledikten sonra yeterli seviyede bulursa, Icardi-Noa Lang ikilisini aynı anda sahaya sürerek ofansif bir kadro tercih edebilir.
Öte yandan, Amerika’dan dönecek olan Gabriel Sara’nın uzun yol yorgunluğu ve jet-lag riski, orta sahada seçim yapmayı zorunlu kılıyor.
KAVUKÇU'DAN EN DOĞRU ZAMANDA GÜVEN
Transfer iddialarına ve oyuncunun geleceğine dair en net açıklama ise yönetim kanadından geldi. Abdullah Kavukçu, Icardi ile aralarında güçlü bir bağ olduğunu vurgulayarak şu ifadeleri kullandı:
- Bizde ahde vefa vardır. Sezon sonu şampiyonluk sonrası Başkanımız Dursun Özbek ile oturup her şeyi konuşacağız. Mauro Icardi, kalmak istediği süre boyunca Galatasaray forması giymeye devam edecektir.
Galatasaray'da sezon başından bu yana saha içindeki liderliğiyle büyük takdir toplayan İlkay Gündoğan, profesyonel futbol kariyerini noktalamak için geri sayıma geçti. Yaşı gereği rotasyon oyuncusu konumuna düşen ve yerini Gabriel Sara'ya devreden tecrübeli orta saha, mevcut sözleşmesini tamamladıktan sonra kramponlarını asarak doğrudan yönetim katına geçecek. Klasikleşmiş antrenörlük veya sportif direktörlük hedeflerini bir kenara iten ve bu vizyonunu bizzat Başkan Dursun Özbek ile paylaşan İlkay, kulübün en üst düzey idari makamı olan CEO'luk koltuğuna yürümek için prensip anlaşmasına vardı.
Sezon başında büyük umutlarla kadroya katılan İlkay Gündoğan, Galatasaray formasıyla yeni bir dönemece giriyor. 35 yaşındaki dünya yıldızı, kariyerinin son döneminde yeşil sahalara veda etmeye hazırlanırken, sarı-kırmızılı kulüpte eşine az rastlanır bir kariyer planı için düğmeye basıldı.
GABRIEL SARA'NIN ARKASNDA KALDI
Avrupa futbolunun zirvesinde uzun yıllar top koşturan tecrübeli orta saha, ilerleyen yaşı ve Gabriel Sara’nın yükselen performansı nedeniyle artık teknik heyet tarafından rotasyon oyuncusu olarak değerlendiriliyor. Mevcut sözleşmesindeki son bir yılı tamamlamaya kararlı olan İlkay, futbolculuk kariyerini noktaladıktan sonra ise bambaşka bir kimlikle sahnede olacak.
HOCA YA DA SPORTİF DİREKTÖR OLMAYACAK
İlkay Gündoğan’ın gelecek planları, alışılmışın aksine saha kenarını kapsamıyor. Yıldız oyuncunun antrenörlük veya teknik direktörlük gibi bir hedefi bulunmuyor. İlkay’ın vizyonu çok daha yukarıda... kulüp yönetimi. Özellikle sportif direktörlük basamağını da pas geçmek isteyen İlkay, kulübün en üst düzey profesyonel makamı olan CEO’luk koltuğunu hedefliyor.
İLK YIL SPORTİF AŞ'DE OLACAK
Edinilen bilgilere göre İlkay, bu büyük hedefini bizzat Başkan Dursun Özbek ile paylaştı. Yapılan görüşmeler sonucunda taraflar arasında el sıkışıldı.
Gelecek sezon sonunda profesyonel futbolculuk kariyerine nokta koyacak. Emekliliğin hemen ardından kulübün idari yapısında, Sportif AŞ. bünyesinde profesyonel yönetici olarak göreve başlayacak. 1-2 sezonluk idari tecrübenin ardından, gidişata bağlı olarak Galatasaray’ın CEO’su olması yönünde prensip anlaşmasına varıldı.
SONRASINDA CEO OLARAK GÖREV ALACAK
İlkay Gündoğan, sadece saha içi tecrübesiyle değil, akademik birikimiyle de bu göreve hazırlanıyor. Tecrübeli futbolcu, son olarak Portsmouth Üniversitesi Küresel Futbol İşletme Yönetimi bölümünü "Üstün Başarı" derecesiyle bitirerek diplomasını aldı.
Bu belge, İlkay’ın yönetim katındaki iddiasını sadece bir niyetten ibaret olmadığını, profesyonel bir vizyonla bu yola çıktığını kanıtlar nitelikte. Galatasaray camiası, yakın gelecekte İlkay Gündoğan’ı takım elbiseleriyle kulübü yönetirken görmeye şimdiden hazırlanıyor.
Fotospor'un 29 Mart'ta gündemine taşıdığı 'Okan Buruk-Tottenham' flörtünde taşlar yerine oturdu! Premier Lig devinin 'Hemen gel, takımı ligde tut' teklifini geri çeviren başarılı teknik adamın bu şok kararı, İtalyan TMW tarafından da doğrulandı. De Zerbi hamlesine rağmen Buruk'tan vazgeçmeyen Londra ekibi, gelecek sezon için planlarını tecrübeli hocanın sistemine göre şekillendiriyor. Masadaki pazarlıklar sadece Buruk'la sınırlı değil. Barış Alper ve Uğurcan Çakır da Tottenham'ın gündeminde kalmaya devam ediyor.
Galatasaray'la başarıdan başarıya koşan Okan Buruk ismi Premier Lig'in gündeminden düşmüyor. TMW'nin geçtiği bilgilere göre tecrübeli teknik adam, Tottenham’dan gelen son teklifi (beklendiği gibi) geri çevirdi. Ancak bu red bir "hayır"dan ziyade, doğru zamanlama beklentisi şeklinde yorumlandı.
Aslında süreç, Fotospor okuyucuları için sürpriz değil. 29 Mart tarihinde paylaştığımız özel haberde, küme düşme hattına kadar gerileyen ve Igor Tudor ile kan kaybeden Tottenham’ın Buruk için kapıyı çaldığını yazdı.
FOTOSPOR ZATEN YAZDI
İngiliz ekibinin "Hemen gel, takımı ligde tut" davetine Okan Buruk, Galatasaray’daki şampiyonluk hedefleri ve yarım bırakmak istemediği başarılar nedeniyle olumsuz yanıt vermişti.
Londra ekibi, acil çözüm olarak takımın başına Roberto De Zerbi’yi getirse de iddialar Tottenham’ın asıl planının gelecek sezon olduğunu gösteriyor.
GEÇİCİ OLARAK DE ZERBI
İngiliz devinin, önümüzdeki sezon için Okan Buruk isminden vazgeçmediği ve başarılı teknik adamı projenin merkezine koymak istediği gelen bilgiler arasında.
Okan Buruk’un sistemini yakından inceleyen Tottenham yönetimi, tecrübeli hocanın "olmazsa olmaz" dediği iki isim için de düğmeye bastı.
- BARIŞ ALPER YILMAZ: Avrupa Şampiyonası ve ligdeki performansıyla devleri peşine takan Barış Alper, Buruk’un sistemindeki en kritik parçalardan biri olarak Londra ekibinin radarında.
- UĞURCAN ÇAKIR: Kalede güven arayan İngiliz ekibi, Okan Buruk’un onay verdiği isimler üzerinden transfer stratejisini şekillendiriyor.
Lazio ve Al-Ittihad gibi kulüplerin de dev tekliflerle kapısını çaldığı Okan Buruk için şu an tek öncelik Galatasaray olsa da, sezon sonunda Londra’dan gelecek yeni bir hamle transfer piyasasını altüst edebilir.
Yönetim, Galatasaray'ı ekonomik anlamda Avrupa'nın devler ligine taşıyacak tarihi bir finansal harekat için düğmeye bastı. Sponsorluk gelirlerini 125 milyon euro seviyesine çıkarmayı hedefleyen Dursun Özbek ve ekibi, sadece Rams Park operasyonlarından yıllık 150 milyon euro bandında rekor bir kazanç bekliyor. GS Store'un halka arzı, dünya çapında kurulacak "Cimbom Cafe" franchise zinciri ve 10 milyon dolar gelir hedefiyle modernize edilen Galatasaray Adası projeleri heyecan yaratıyor.
Galatasaray yönetimi, kulübü ekonomik anlamda dünyanın en büyük 10 kulübü arasına taşıyacak devasa bir finansal projeksiyonu hayata geçiriyor. Sponsorluklardan gayrimenkule, perakendeden franchise sistemine kadar pek çok alanda kulübün kasasını dolduracak hamlelerin detayları belli oldu.
SPONSORLUK GELİRİNDE DEV HEDEF
Bu sezon sponsorluk gelirlerinde 92 milyon euro seviyelerine ulaşan sarı-kırmızılılar, çıtayı daha da yukarı taşıdı. Yönetimin hedefi, önümüzdeki sezonun sonuna kadar bu rakamı 125 milyon euro bandına çıkarmak. Bu doğrultuda tüm yönetim kurulunun yoğun bir mesai harcadığı belirtiliyor.
Kulübün önümüzdeki yıl sadece stat operasyonlarından beklediği gelir 150 milyon euro olarak hesaplanıyor. Ancak asıl büyük hamle mağazacılık tarafında geliyor.
Galatasaray mağazacılık şirketi halka açılmaya hazırlanıyor. Yaklaşık 600 milyon dolar sermayeli bir şirket olacak. Şirketin %20-30’luk kısmının halka arz edilmesi ve kulüp kasasına yaklaşık 150 milyon dolarlık sıcak para girişi sağlanması hedefleniyor.
CİMBOM CAFE İLE İLGİLİ SON BİLGİLER
Abdullah Kavukçu tarafından duyurulan ve BILD’e de yansıyan vizyon projesine göre, Galatasaray kendi kafe franchise zincirini kuruyor. Projenin detayları ise şöyle:
Henüz kesinleşmese de Başkan’ın önerisi isminin "Cimbom Cafe" olması. Franchise bedeli için 50 bin Euro konuşuluyor. İlk şubelerin Rams Park ve İstiklal Caddesi’nde açılması planlanıyor.
DÜĞÜNLER GALATASARAY ADASI'NA
Öte yandan yenilenen yüzüyle dikkat çeken Galatasaray Adası, kulüp için ciddi bir gelir kapısı haline geliyor. 5 milyon dolarlık yatırımla modernize edilen adada artık düğün organizasyonları yapılabilecek. Özel bir etkinlik mekanının açılacağı adadan, yıllık 10 milyon dolar kira ve organizasyon geliri bekleniyor.
Sarı-kırmızılı yönetim, bu çok yönlü gelir modeliyle hem kısa vadedeki borçları temizlemeyi hem de Avrupa’nın zirvesindeki finansal güce ulaşmayı amaçlıyor.
Ötənlərin məşhur qapıçısı Canluici Buffon futbol üzrə İtaliya milli komandasnın nümayəndə heyətinin rəhbəri vəzifəsindən ayrılıb.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sabiq futbolçu bu barədə sosial şəbəkə hesabında məlumat yayıb.
O, bildirib ki, bu qərarı Bosniya və Herseqovina millisinə qarşı məğlubiyyətdən dərhal sonra vermək niyyətində olub:
“İtaliyanın səfərdəki məğlubiyyətindən sonra istefa vermək istəyirdim. Lakin məndən qərarımı yenidən nəzərdən keçirməyim istənildi. Qabriele Qravinanın prezident vəzifəsindən istefasından sonra düzgün hesab etdiyim addımı atmaqda sərbəst oldum”.
Buffon qeyd edib ki, komandanın əsas məqsədi İtaliya milli komandası ilə dünya çempionatına vəsiqə qazanmaq olub, lakin bu hədəfə çata bilməyib:
“Hesab edirəm ki, yeni rəhbərliyin növbəti komandanı formalaşdırmaqda sərbəst olması daha doğrudur”.
Xatırladaq ki, İtaliya milli komandası dünya çempionatının final mərhələsinə vəsiqə uğrunda pley-off finalında Bosniya və Herseqovina seçməsi ilə qarşılaşıb. Matçın əsas vaxtı 1:1 hesabı ilə yekunlaşsa da, penaltilər seriyasında rəqib daha dəqiq olaraq qələbə qazanıb.
Beləliklə, İtaliya millisi ardıcıl üçüncü dəfə dünya çempionatının final mərhələsindən kənarda qalıb. Komanda sonuncu dəfə 2014-cü ildə mundialda iştirak edib.
İtaliya yığması tarixində 4 dəfə – 1934, 1938, 1982 və 2006-cı illərdə dünya çempionu olub.
Xatırladaq ki, Canluici Buffon 2023-cü ildən etibarən milli komandanın nümayəndə heyətinin rəhbəri vəzifəsində çalışırdı.
Milli komandanın son uğursuzluğu ilə əlaqədar bu gün İtaliya Futbol Federasiyasının prezidenti Qabriele Qravina da postundan ayrıldığını bəyan edib.
Fenerbahçe'de futbol şubesinden sorumlu yönetim kurulu üyesi Ertan Torunoğulları, Beşiktaş derbisi öncesinde takımın son durumuna ilişkin açıklamalarda bulundu.
Gelecek sezon kadro planlamasında savunma hattını güçlendirmeyi hedefleyen Galatasaray'ın, Barcelona'da forma giyen Andreas Christensen ile ilgilendiği ortaya çıktı. Sarı-kırmızılıların, Danimarkalı stoperi...Devamı için tıklayınız
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 28. haftasında sahasında Galatasaray'ı konuk edecek Trabzonspor, perşembe günü gerçekleştirdiği antrenmanla karşılaşmanın hazırlıklarını sürdürdü.Devamı için tıklayınız
Fenerbahçe Medicana, Sultanlar Ligi play-off yarı final serisi ikinci maçında Zeren Spor'u 3-1 mağlup ederek seride durumu 2-0'a getirdi ve adını finale yazdırdı.Devamı için tıklayınız
Bakıda kişi və qadın boksçular arasında ənənəvi “Böyük İpək Yolu” beynəlxalq turnirinin açılış mərasimi keçirilib.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, tədbir iştirakçı komandaların paradı ilə başlayıb.
Daha sonra çıxış edən Azərbaycan Boks Federasiyası (ABF) prezidentinin müşaviri Samir Hüseynov yarışın əhəmiyyətini qeyd edib, turnirə güclü komandaların qatıldığını vurğulayıb.
Ardınca yarışın bolqarıstanlı supervayzeri Svetoslav Sapounciyev Təşkilat Komitəsinə minnətdarlığını bildirib, iştirakçılara uğurlar arzulayıb.
Dövlət Himni səsləndirildikdən sonra turnir açıq elan olunub.
Qeyd edək ki, Bakı Boks Mərkəzində keçirilən turnir aprelin 7-də başa çatacaq. Yarışda Azərbaycan, Avstraliya, Əlcəzair, Bolqarıstan, Gürcüstan, Macarıstan, Qazaxıstan, Moldova, Türkiyə və Özbəkistan milli komandaları güclərini yoxlayırlar. Kişi boksçular 10, qadınlar 4 çəki dərəcəsində qalibi müəyyənləşdirəcəklər.
126 idmançının qatıldığı turnirdə döyüşlər hər gün saat 15:00-da başlayacaq.
Gravina has tended his resignation as President of the Italian Football Federation following the third consecutive failure to qualify for a World Cup.
New elections will be held on June 22 to find his replacement, ending a tenure that had lasted since October 2018, the wake of the first time the Azzurri lost the play-offs.
Italy coach will be chosen by new FIGC President
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: (L-R) Italy Minister of Sport Andrea Abodi, President of CONI Luciano Buonfiglio and President of FIGC Gabriele Gravina look on prior the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Gravina is 72 years old, and has been in and around Italian football for several decades, as he was also the Lega Pro President from 2015 to 2018.
He replaced Carlo Tavecchio, who died in January 2023 at the age of 79.
The President of the Italian Coaches Association (AIAC) Renzo Ulivieri confessed he had wanted Gravina to remain at the helm, and he is just turned 85.
The favourite to take over as FIGC President is Giovanni Malagò, who is a sprightly 67 and has been President of the CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) since 2013.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Giancarlo Abete Former President of FIGC arrives at Gran Galà Del Calcio AlC 2025 on December 01, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Sara Cavallini/Getty Images)
Another likely option is current Lega Nazionale Dilettanti (Amateur League) President Giancarlo Abete, who will be 76 in August.
The striker recently returned from a long injury lay-off and remains eager to extend his stay in Turin, despite no shortage of other clubs interested in his services.
Those include Milan, where he’d reunite with Max Allegri, Arsenal and potentially also teams in Spain.
What Vlahovic wants from Juventus
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC lies injured during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
It is hoped they can do a deal for a reduced salary of €6-7m per season from the current €12m including add-ons.
The biggest issue seems to be that agent Darko Ristic wants a significant commission if he is to organise this contract, seeing as he would earn a lot more if shopping Vlahovic to other clubs.
Juventus hope that the arrival of father Milos Vlahovic at the negotiating table will help smooth things over and reach a compromise.
Gianni Rivera has thrown his hat into the ring to become the next FIGC president, making an informal declaration of candidacy on the same day that Gabriele Gravina finally tendered his resignation following Italy’s third consecutive World Cup elimination.
The 82-year-old, who in 1969 became the first Italian to win the Ballon d’Or, announced his interest during the radio programme Caffè on Rai Radio 1 Sport, via CalcioEFinanza.
“I am ready to become FIGC president because I have a very specific programme that I have developed with friends, including the son of Angelo Sormani,” Rivera said. “It is a model we are studying and preparing that could perhaps be useful for the federation.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – JUNE 03: Gianni Rivera and head coach of Italy Luciano Spalletti after a press conference at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on June 03, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Rivera: ‘No surprise that Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup’
The former AC Milan legend was candid about the scale of the problems facing Italian football.
“There is no reason to be surprised about failing to qualify for the World Cup, I have to say that honestly,” he said. “At this moment there are serious problems that are difficult to overcome. We have shown that we have not overcome them.”
Any candidate wishing to stand in the election must submit formal documentation by 7 June, with the vote itself scheduled for 22 June.
The FIGC presidency is decided by an assembly of 516 weighted votes spread across Italian football’s various stakeholder groups.
The Lega Nazionale Dilettanti hold the largest share at 34%, followed by the players’ association at 20%, Serie A clubs at 18%, coaches at 10%, Lega Pro at 12% and Serie B at 6%. A candidate requires an absolute majority of validly cast votes, including blank ballots, to be elected.
Rivera’s candidacy is not yet official, but the intervention of one of Italian football’s most iconic figures adds a fascinating dimension to what promises to be a hotly contested race to reshape the game’s governing structures.
Arsenal and Liverpool are interested in signing the Atalanta defender Honest Ahanor at the end of the season.
The 18-year-old is highly rated across Europe, and several clubs are monitoring his progress. The two Premier League clubs will be hoping to secure his signature in the summer, and he could cost around €50 million, according to FussballDaten.
Ahanor can operate as both a central defender and a fullback. He is a versatile player with significant potential, and he could develop into a key player for Liverpool or Arsenal with the right guidance. It is no secret that Liverpool needs more quality and depth in the defensive unit. A versatile player like Ahanor would be a superb investment.
The young defender is already impressing with the Italian club, and he has clocked over 1,000 first-team minutes in the league this season.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have a well-stocked defensive unit, and it will be interesting to see if they are prepared to invest in another defender this summer. The 18-year-old needs to join a club that offers regular opportunities. Even though Arsenal is among the biggest clubs in the world and has a quality team, they might not be able to provide the young defender with regular opportunities. Sitting on the bench at a big club would be detrimental to his development.
Perhaps a move to Liverpool would be ideal for him. They are likely to lose Ibrahima Konate in the summer when his contract expires. Joe Gomez has also been linked with an exit. He needs more opportunities, and he could look to move on in the summer. Ahanor could be an important option for next season.
Manchester United are interested in signing the Borussia Dortmund defender Waldemar Anton at the end of the season.
The 29-year-old has done well for the German club, and he is on the radar of clubs like Atletico Madrid as well, according to BILD via SportWitness. It is no secret that Manchester United could use more depth in the defensive unit. Anton could be a useful acquisition for them.
He is at the peak of his career, and he has the experience and leadership qualities as well. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United follows up on their interest with an offer to sign the player.
The opportunity to move to the Premier League at this stage of his career could be quite exciting for Anton. Manchester United are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they might be able to provide him with the platform to fight for trophies next season. Manchester United have shown significant improvement in recent weeks and are expected to secure Champions League qualification for next season. They need to keep improving the team if they want to compete with elite clubs next season.
Players like Matthijs de Ligt have suffered from persistent injury problems, and Manchester United need more depth in the defensive unit. Harry Maguire is in his 30s as well. Anton could be a very handy option for Manchester United. It remains to be seen whether the German club is willing to sanction his departure for a reasonable fee.
For now, the player will focus on finishing the season strongly with Dortmund and securing his place in Germany’s World Cup squad.
Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing the Real Madrid youngster, Diego Aguado.
The 19-year-old defender has attracted the attention of multiple clubs across Europe, and a report from AS claims that the Premier League club is hoping to secure his signature in the summer. They could use more quality and depth in their defensive unit, and Aguado would be a long-term acquisition.
The player is highly rated across Europe, and he has a big future ahead of himself. He needs regular opportunities at a competitive level in order to continue his development and fulfil his potential. The move to Newcastle could be an exciting opportunity for him.
Newcastle have an ambitious project, and they are looking to build a formidable team for the future. Investing in talented young players is a sustainable way of growing the team. The 19-year-old can operate as a central defender or a fullback. He could be the ideal utility man for Newcastle. They have looked vulnerable at the back this season, and they need to improve defensively. Investing in quality defenders would be a wise decision.
Real Madrid may not be able to provide the young defender with regular opportunities at this stage of his career, and leaving them could be ideal for the player. Aguado is likely to get more opportunities at Newcastle, and it could help him develop further. Regular football in England could accelerate development.
It will be interesting to see if Newcastle follow up on their interest with an official offer to sign the 19-year-old. The defender could certainly be tempted if there is a concrete proposal on the table.
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Barcelona president Joan Laporta believes FIFA are to blame for Raphinha’s hamstring injury, which will sideline the winger for the Champions League quarter-finals. Raphinha sustained the issue while playing for Brazil in a friendly against France in Foxborough last week, which the Selecao lost 2-1. It was subsequently confirmed that he will be absent for […]
With his current contract with Manchester City expiring at the end of the season, John Stones is not expected to be offered a new one to remain at the Etihad, according to Talksport. Several clubs are watching the situation closely, and one of them is Everton, which the defender left to join City in a […]
With his current contract with Manchester City expiring at the end of the season, John Stones is not expected to be offered a new one to remain at the Etihad, according to Talksport. Several clubs are watching the situation closely, and one of them is Everton, which the defender left to join City in a […]
Nate Tice & Matt Harmon reveal ten of their BOLDEST predictions to lock in the Take Vault for the 2026 NFL season. But first, the guys enter the ring of Philadelphia Eagles offense discourse as they give their thoughts on whether or not Jalen Hurts will adapt to new OC Sean Mannion’s scheme, plus their thoughts on the Las Vegas Raiders signing QB Kirk Cousins.
Next, Nate & Matt open up the Take Vault as they lock a few bold predictions for the season away in early April. Matt predicts Ty Simpson coming off the board early on draft night, a tough season for the Green Bay Packers, a potential big trade up for the Dallas Cowboys and a huge season for WR Ladd McConkey, while Nate forecasts a first-time MVP winner, a big bounce-back season for the Minnesota Vikings with new quarterback Kyler Murray, a successful 2026 for the Cowboys and C.J. Stroud solidifying himself among the top 10 NFL quarterbacks.
(4:20) - Can Jalen Hurts adapt to the new Eagles offense?
(19:55) - Raiders sign QB Kirk Cousins
(28:55) - The Take Vault: Ty Simpson, MVP, NFC North
(1:03:55) - The Take Vault: Cowboys, Ladd McConkey, C.J. Stroud
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 10: Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates as he runs onto the field during pregame warmups prior to an NFL football game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images)
After a rocky start to the 2025 season, the Carolina Panthers rallied to reach the playoffs behind record-setting production from Rico Dowdle and improved consistency from quarterback Bryce Young.
Carolina’s season ended with a close Wild Card loss to the Rams, but the run set the stage for a 2026 push. GM Dan Morgan attacked free agency, adding high-end defensive talent with linebacker Devin Lloyd and edge rusher Jaelan Phillips.
Panthers Draft Picks:
Round 1: No. 19
Round 2: No. 51
Round 3: No. 83
Round 4: No. 119
Round 5: No. 158 (from Vikings)
Round 5: No. 159
Round 6: No. 200
Morgan now turns to the draft with several picks available to use. While he has emphasized“flexibility”in the draft, there are still several positions that the Panthers need to fill.
In a safety-rich class, Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman could fill Carolina’s biggest hole: a fast, physical defender with strong tackling and explosiveness. If he’s available at No. 19, he should be a top option, though some projections have him going one pick earlier to Minnesota.
If the Panthers don’t get Thieneman, there is a boatload of options at safety that they can still find great success with. However, Thieneman should be priority number one.
Even after reshaping the linebacker room in free agency, Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez remains a strong Day 2 target for the Panthers to go and get. He’s already met twice with Panthers staff and had great things to say about the organization. Rodriguez could certainly be in play for the Panthers to snatch in the second round.
Ohio State tight end Max Klare stands out if Carolina waits until later in the draft to fill their need at tight end. At 6-foot-5, he offers a big target who can stretch the field and line up in multiple spots across the line. Drafting Klare would certainly be a risk due to his size, but one that the Panthers could be inclined to take.
With Cade Mays gone, center is a clear priority for the Panthers. Florida’s Jake Slaughter, an experienced, five-year starter and Second-Team All-American, could challenge for snaps immediately, while also offering a long-term answer beyond the team’s one-year Luke Fortner addition.
For the Panthers, it will be a matter of how long they can wait to snatch up Slaughter, with several teams sure to be eyeing him as a potential successor to their aging centers.
Rutgers women’s basketball has landed its first commit of the Gary Redus II era, as four-star guard Chikae Desdunes has committed to the school, according to Talia Goodman of On3/Rivals. Chikae originally committed to Penn State in October of last year, but ultimately decided to reopen her recruitment in March before committing to the Scarlet Knights a week later. Desdunes is ranked as the No.57 prospect in the nation by the 247sports composite.
Desdunes had several power schools interested in her, even before she committed to Penn State. Auburn, Baylor, Michigan State, Purdue, and West Virginia were among the schools looking to gain favor with the guard from Daytona Beach, Florida.
Desdunes stood out as a shooter at DME Academy in New Orleans last season. Last season, she shot 42% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc. She also earned a reputation as a three-level scorer during her time in the Nike EYBL last summer.
When making her decision to play for DME Academy last season, Desdunes spoke to Rivals and made it clear that one of her biggest deciding factors was her relationship with the coaches.
“The biggest thing is my relationship with the coaches. I want a family environment. I’m also looking at coaching staffs that have been together for a while, so that when they say family, I know it’s real, because they’ve been together.”
During his opening press conference, Redus, who was known as one of the best recruiters in the country during his time at LSU, spoke a lot about developing the proper relationships with athletes.
“I think that in the NIL era, yes, like a lot of the kids are concerned about NIL, but they’re still concerned about relationships. Relationships are still really important, and that’s what I plan on doing.”
“I try to approach recruiting, coaching, mentoring, all of those things the same way. I want to get to know you while you get to know me. I think it’s very simple to form a bond and form a relationship when it’s coming natural.”
By landing a highly regarded prospect as his first recruit, Redus has made a strong first step in his effort to rebuild the program. The hope is that he can keep this recruiting momentum going throughout the rest of his first class.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, we’re breaking down position rankings individually based on the big boards of Yahoo Sports NFL Draft experts Nate Tice and Charles McDonald.
A left tackle with excellent size and a frame who could add even more weight, Freeling is an easy mover who can get up to the second level in a hurry, with the agility and balance to adjust to a moving target in space or in pass protection against defensive twists. Freeling improved his hand usage and his strength in 2025, which is what has him rocketing up draft boards (including mine) even before the combine happened. His long limbs make him susceptible to defenders getting into his chest, but his improved anchor helped him adjust. Overall, Freeling is a very good athlete with length whose arrow as a player is pointing firmly up. His play over the final two months of the 2025 season can make you excited about what he can become at the next level. If he can keep getting stronger and continue to fill out his frame, while continuing to round out his technique, he projects as a very good blindside protector. — Nate Tice
2. Caleb Lomu, Utah
Lomu hasn’t gotten as much fame and praise as his teammate Spencer Fano, but he might have a more NFL-ready body and game than Fano. Lomu is a big, powerful explosive run blocker with a nasty mean streak. He has upside to continue improving as a pass blocker. — Charles McDonald
3. Francis Mauigoa, Miami
Mauigoa is one of the most highly-touted offensive linemen in this year’s draft class, with an outrageous size at nearly 6-foot-6, 330 pounds. He may have to kick inside to guard in the NFL. He’s a little slow on the edge at times and doesn’t have the greatest technique, but he’s so strong and powerful that he can make up for it in other ways. — CM
4. Blake Miller, Clemson
Clemson’s offense struggled at times this past season, but it wasn’t due to its offensive line play. For the first time in his entire tenure, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has an offensive tackle prospect who is drawing the attention of NFL scouts in the first round of the draft. Miller has primarily played on the right side of the line, but he has the athleticism to cleanly make a move over to the left side if his future team wants that. — CM
5. Spencer Fano, Utah
Yes, both of Utah’s tackles made the big board. Fano played left tackle before moving to right tackle in 2024 but I think he would be best kicking inside at the next level. He has a long and lean build, which he can look to add weight to, but already shows off the consistent ability to get tangible movement in the run game. Fano is a springy athlete (and tested like one in Indianapolis) who can constantly stay on his feet and with pass rushers and any post-snap movement, and he is also a strong finisher in the run game. Fano’s short arms (32 ⅛ inches) has me concerned about how he projects as a tackle at the next level and he would have a unique build for a guard or center, but the pop and drive he can get will help him out on the inside and his easy athleticism and movement ability would make him a weapon out in space as a puller or on screens. — NT
6. Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
A big, long right tackle who came to football late and went to JUCO before joining Arizona State, Iheanachor can easily be labeled as a “project,” but his film indicates more polish and refinement than you’d expect. He has ideal size and is an excellent athlete who can stay balanced and latched onto his blocks. His hand usage got much cleaner and more patient throughout his final season, an indication of the way Iheanachor can adjust and refine his game quickly. I’m bullish on Iheanachor. He has the strength to move defenders in the run game and is comfortable taking on the better athletes in pass protection. He can stay on the right side but has the movement skills to bump over to the left side down the road for a team that continues to develop him. He’s an exciting combination of tools with enough real film that playing right away won’t be too much for him. — NT
7. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
Ioane is one of the few high-end interior offensive line prospects in this draft. Even though he struggles at times with consistency, there aren’t many players who project as a Day 1 starting NFL offensive lineman. That alone should get the physical, athletic guard locked in as a top-40 selection. — CM
8. Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
A mountain of a man, Proctor can completely wipe out defenders as soon as he gets his hands on them in the run game. Despite being so large, Proctor has above-average balance and footwork. Like most large players, he can play high at times and can get caught getting slow out of his stance against speedier edge rushers. He can also lack sustainability in pass protection and fall off his blocks in the run game against players he’s unable to fully latch onto. It's something that might get harder at the next level. Proctor still has to work on his consistency, but he’s young, and his weight was encouraging at the scouting combine. His tools probably have NFL offensive line coaches excited to try and take Proctor’s game to the next level. — NT
9. Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon
A guard-only prospect with good length and big hands (11 inches at the combine). Pregnon has good upper body strength to latch onto defenders and use his length, but can get caught playing high and would preferably add to his lower body mass to help him sustain his blocks once he hits the NFL. His length is an asset in pass protection, but he can still work on bringing his feet with him as late moves can get him to fall off blocks. Overall, he looks like a player who can start at guard early in his career, but there’s a few technique things to refine so he can use his strength and length more consistently. — NT
10. Connor Lew, Auburn
Lew was a tough player for Auburn’s offense and he has a chance to be a high-floor interior starter on an NFL team that needs offensive line help. Lew unfortunately tore his ACL in October, but he did put up enough solid tape beforehand to possibly end up as a Day 2 pick in April. — CM
Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe continues to impress in his maiden NBA season. The No. 3 overall pick is on a tear at the moment and really stepped up for a long stretch with Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and Joel Embiid sidelined with issues they were dealing with.
In the month of March, Edgecombe had some big numbers as he put up 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists with the team's three stars all missing an extensive amount of time. That type of production earned him Rookie of the Month honors for March as he took home the award for the Eastern Conference.
Edgecombe won the East while Sacramento Kings big man Maxime Raynaud took home the award for the West.
Sacramento Kings center Maxime Raynaud and Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe have been named the Kia NBA Western and Eastern Conference Rookies of the Month, respectively, for games played in March. pic.twitter.com/pjIDWAfg4E
Edgecombe's play kept the Sixers afloat and in the race to get out of the play-in tournament as he continued to make his case for Rookie of the Year honors.
Manchester City lifted the Carabao Cup before the international break, but can they book a swift return to Wembley by beating Liverpool in their FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday?
"This has been a far-from-perfect season for City, and all the speculation about Pep Guardiola's future probably doesn't help, but they could still finish it with two cups," said BBC Sport football expert Chris Sutton.
"Some of their fans would probably still be disappointed with that, but they shouldn't be."
Sutton's guest for this weekend's four quarter-final ties is boxer and Crystal Palace fan Richard Riakporhe.
Riakporhe is challenging Jeamie 'TKV' Tshikeva for the British heavyweight title on Saturday, 11 April at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
They meet on the undercard of Tyson Fury's comeback fight against Arslanbek Makhmudov and the event is being shown live on Netflix.
"I've been talking and watching so much boxing for the past couple of months," Riakporhe said. "So it's nice to talk about football again now."
Do you agree with their scores? You can see what AI thinks and choose your winner from each tie, below.
Palace fan Riakporhe boxed at Selhurst Park in June 2024, challenging for the WBO cruiserweight title against Chris Billam-Smith. He lost on points. [Getty Images]
Riakporhe, 36, only started boxing aged 19 and says football was his "first love" when he was growing up in south-east London.
"When I was younger, there were a few years where my brother and I used to play every single day," he told BBC Sport.
"Our dream was to play for Palace and nothing else mattered. Eventually we joined a local team called Meryl Rovers - you might remember Jason Euell, who used to play for Wimbledon and Charlton? Well it was run by his mum.
"I was a striker, and I was really fast - I was like Emmanuel Adebayor, where you could give me the ball and I'd put it in the back of the net.
"A few boys who played for Meryl Rovers went on to become professionals, but not me. I couldn't keep it up because I hated the cold - when it got to the winter I'd say I wasn't coming out. Instead I'd stay inside and play on my computer.
"I can't play much football any more because all the changes of direction you have to do affects your movement in the ring, but I do like to play a bit of footvolley - like volleyball, but with a football.
"Sometimes I go to Brazil and when you watch men or women play over there, the skill they have is unbelievable. At first you wonder how they can do it, but it's actually pretty simple - if you keep on practising, you get it."
Richard Riakporhe reacts after beating Kevin Nicolas Espindola on the Fatal Fury City of Wolves card at ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in May 2025 [Getty Images]
As an Eagles fan, Riakporhe has seen both sides of the FA Cup in the past 12 months - from beating Manchester City in last year's final to going out against non-league Macclesfield in this year's third round.
"Wembley was incredible. I was there and right from the start I did feel it was going to be our day," he explained.
"I went with my friend's son, who is a City fan, and I told him before kick-off to give me a hug, so I could give him my condolences for their defeat now.
"Winning the FA Cup was a great moment for everyone and I don't think any Palace fan will ever forget it.
"Losing to Macclesfield was obviously a very different feeling but you realise that's football, and it can happen to anyone.
"I was talking to someone the other day about Manchester United losing to Grimsby [in this season's Carabao Cup] and when an upset like that happens to another team it's very funny. It's a great laugh, unless it happens to you!"
Chris Sutton and Richard Riakporhe were speaking to BBC Sport's Chris Bevan.
The AI predictions were generated using Microsoft Copilot Chat - we asked the tool to predict the score of each tie.
FA Cup quarter-final predictions
There are no replays. Games will be decided by extra time and penalties.
Gap = the number of league places between the two teams
Saturday, 4 April
Etihad Stadium, 12:45 BST
2nd in Premier League v 5th in Premier League
Gap = 3
It seems a section of Liverpool fans are not convinced by Arne Slot, and the Reds' poor Premier League form before the international break has put him under more pressure.
Liverpool have taken one point from their past three games and their last performance, in an away defeat at Brighton, was really insipid.
I still think it would be extremely harsh if they end up parting ways after the guy won them the title in his first year in the job but this feels like a huge week or two for Slot, and for Liverpool's whole campaign, with the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Paris St-Germain to come in France on Wednesday.
Right now, Liverpool are miles off the team they were last season and beating City probably feels more achievable than getting past PSG.
I'm not convinced they will do it though, and if they end up going out of both competitions in the space of 10 days then the Liverpool fans are going to be even more disgruntled.
City are already out of Europe, and it will be hard, but not impossible, for them to win the Premier League from here, but Pep has already landed the Carabao Cup and he always takes the FA Cup seriously anyway.
They are looking to extend their own record by reaching the semi-final for the eighth successive season and, if they get to the final, they will be the first team to make it to four in a row.
City could really do with getting Erling Haaland firing again, while this is Liverpool's first game since Mohamed Salah announced he will be leaving at the end of the season.
There are so many different ways to look at this tie, and who might step up to win it for either team, but City are at home and they have also beaten Liverpool twice already this season in the league. I just have a feeling they will take this one as well.
Sutton's prediction: 3-1
Richard's prediction: City are going to win this in 90 minutes. They are just lucky they don't have to face Palace in the cup again, although we do still have to play them for their game in hand in the league. 2-1
AI's prediction: 2-1
Stamford Bridge, 17:15 GMT
6th in Premier League v 24th in League One
Gap = 62
If Liverpool's tie against Manchester City is important for Slot, then this game is even bigger for Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior.
Ever since he was appointed in January, there has always been an element of Chelsea fans who don't think Rosenior is the right man to take them forward - but losing their past four games in a row in all competitions has certainly not helped his cause.
Yes, you can say they have been beaten by European champions PSG in two of those matches, but I still expected them to get a result at home to Newcastle and then Everton absolutely blew them away.
If Rosenior loses this tie too, then the alarm bells would really be ringing at Stamford Bridge. It is a game where he cannot afford to slip up, but I also feel like he needs a performance to go with the win everyone is expecting.
Wycombe beat Port Vale 4-0 on Saturday so Chelsea surely have to at least match that scoreline before they focus on the league again, with two more crucial home games coming up against Manchester City and Manchester United.
Vale are toiling at the bottom of League One and so far on this cup run I have wrongly predicted they will lose to Fleetwood, Bristol City and Sunderland.
The good news for Vale fans and their manager Jon Brady is that I am going to predict they will lose this time too.
Their aim will be to stay in the game as long as they can and try to nick a goal, but the circumstances mean Rosenior will probably pick a strong team and Chelsea will have too much quality for them.
Sutton's prediction: 4-0
Richard's prediction: Port Vale have done so well to get here. I wouldn't say it's impossible for them to win at Stamford Bridge, but it's very unlikely they will get through. 3-0
AI's prediction: 3-0
St Mary's Stadium, 20:00 GMT
6th in Championship v 1st in Premier League
Gap = 25
Southampton are going really well in the Championship and are unbeaten in 14 games in all competitions, although I have got to say Norwich played them off the park despite losing 1-0 in March.
Saints got very lucky in that game and they are going to need an element of luck here too - although I am not sure Arsenal will have enough fit players to put out a team because of the injury crisis that affected them during the international break.
The Gunners have got a Champions League tie on the horizon too - they play Sporting on Tuesday - but the most important thing for Mikel Arteta's side is that they get back on track after losing the Carabao Cup final last time out.
Arsenal were second best in the second half at Wembley and although Arteta might save a few players for the trip to Portugal, he has to take this tie seriously and find a way to win. If they lose it, people are going to start talking about Arsenal's bottle again.
St Mary's Stadium has sold out and Saints are looking to mark the 50th anniversary of their famous FA Cup final triumph over Manchester United by heading back to Wembley for the semi-finals.
I don't see them making it, however. Instead I am going for the same scoreline we saw when these sides met in the 2003 final, and Arsenal came out on top.
Sutton's prediction: 0-1
Richard's prediction: Southampton are in great form but knocking out Arsenal is a big ask. Arsenal's defence is on point, so I don't even think they will concede. 0-2
AI's prediction: 1-3
Sunday, 5 April
London Stadium, 16:30 GMT
18th in Premier League v 15th in Premier League
Gap = 3
The most intriguing thing about this tie is how both teams are going to approach it.
They are both in the thick of the relegation battle at the bottom of the table and will surely have at least one eye on that, rather than being fully focused on the FA Cup.
Leeds don't play in the league until the following Monday, when they go to Old Trafford, but West Ham are back in action on Friday, at home to bottom side Wolves.
Out of the two games, Wolves is surely the one that Hammers boss Nuno Espirito Santo will prioritise, because it has to be seen as 'must win' for them - but you could argue Leeds manager Daniel Farke will do the same before his side play Manchester United too.
The one thing both teams definitely don't want here is extra time, and what usually happens in that scenario is that the tie goes the distance.
So, that's what I am going to say we will see here, too. You won't be able to split the teams over 90 minutes, but then Leeds will be the ones who find a winner.
Sutton's prediction: 1-2 after extra time.
Richard's prediction: This is a tough game to call, the hardest tie to predict. I can see there being a lot of goals. It is going to be 3-2 to someone, but I am not sure who. West Ham to win it late on... no, actually, I am going to go for Leeds. 2-3
AI's prediction: 2-2 after extra time, West Ham win on penalties.
While news of Cousins' exit from the Georgia-based team was not announced until March 11, it would seem the writing was on the wall for the 37-year-old NFL veteran, who put his enormous six-bedroom abode on the market on March 9, Realtor.com® can reveal.
While Cousins may now be headed to pastures new—namely the Raiders' shiny stadium in Las Vegas—he is hoping to leave Georgia with a hefty profit, having listed his Suwanee dwelling for almost $1 million more than he bought it for in April 2024, weeks after he signed with the Falcons on a four-year contract.
The quarterback, who shares two children with his wife, Julie Cousins, will add some much needed experience to the Raiders, an element that the team's new coach, Klint Kubiak, said he was eager to include in his lineup for the 2026 season.
Though the team is widely expected to select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in this year's NFL draft, Kubiak noted that he would prefer not to throw the 22-year-old quarterback straight into the mix and instead give him a chance to train alongside someone older.
NFL quarterback Kirk Cousins has listed his Georgia home for $2.99 million—days before signing a new deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. (Realtor.com)Property records show that Cousins, 37, put the home on the market on March 9, two days before the Atlanta Falcons announced they were releasing him. (Realtor.com)The sprawling abode, which was built in 2004, underwent a dramatic overhaul in 2024. The listing described it as offering "timeless architecture enhanced with sophisticated, modern finishes throughout." (Realtor.com)It is located in a gated community known as The River Club, where many Falcons players choose to live because of its impressive communal amenities, top-of-the-line security, and, of course, its enormous mansions. (Realtor.com)
"Ideally, you don't want him to start day one," the coach said at the annual league meeting, according to ESPN. "You'd love him to be able to learn behind somebody. That's in a perfect world. It doesn't always work out that way.
"Sometimes they have to play from day one, and it's our job as a coach to get them ready to go. I think it does help the player, though, if they can sit behind a mature adult and watch how they run the show."
ESPN reports that Cousins' $172 million five-year contract includes $20 million in guaranteed money in 2026, as well as a club option at $80 million for two years.
Needless to say, he will have plenty of money to put behind a new dwelling in the Nevada area should he choose to lay down roots for his family in the state, especially if he finds a buyer willing to fork out nearly $3 million for his Georgia property.
The sprawling abode, which was built in 2004, underwent a dramatic overhaul in 2024, likely in anticipation of Cousins and his family moving in. The listing described it as offering "timeless architecture enhanced with sophisticated, modern finishes throughout."
It is located in a gated community known as The River Club, where many Falcons players choose to live because of its impressive communal amenities, top-of-the-line security, and, of course, its enormous mansions.
Cousins' dwelling spans more than 10,000 square feet on a 0.9-acre lot and features six bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms, providing more than enough room for the quarterback and his family.
Enormous trees shield the home from its neighbors, ensuring maximum privacy, while a huge front porch provides the perfect place to relax away from the glaring heat of the Georgia sunshine.
Cousins' dwelling spans more than 10,000 square feet on a 0.9-acre lot and features six bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms, providing more than enough room for the quarterback and his family. (Realtor.com)The ground floor is filled with open entertaining spaces, including a formal dining room and a huge "designer kitchen" with a large island and a separate breakfast nook. (Realtor.com)The primary suite features an enormous seating area with bay windows that overlook the surrounding landscape. (Realtor.com)A finished basement provides an ideal spot for a game room, media center, or gym. It includes another bedroom, bathroom, and a small office space. (Realtor.com)The newly renovated screened-in deck at the back of the property can be used year-round as a dining or relaxation spot. (Realtor.com)
Inside, the home features a very traditional aesthetic, starting with an elegant entryway that leads to a soaring double-height great room, complete with a large stone fireplace and patio doors that open to the backyard.
The ground floor is filled with open entertaining spaces, including a formal dining room and a huge "designer kitchen" with a large island and a separate breakfast nook.
Adding a cozy touch to the kitchen is another of the home's three fireplaces, which—according to the listing photos—has been used as a sweet relaxation spot by Cousins and his family, with large armchairs currently flanking the stone addition.
A pantry provides an incredible amount of storage, complemented by the kitchen's many built-ins and cupboards.
The third fireplace in the home is located in the stunning wood-paneled office, which overlooks the backyard and features beautiful built-in shelves, as well as a stately mantelpiece.
All six of the bedrooms in the home boast their own en suite bathrooms. However, the primary suite also features an enormous seating area with bay windows that overlook the surrounding landscape.
A finished basement provides an ideal spot for a game room, media center, or gym, while also housing another bedroom, bathroom, and a small office space.
The newly renovated screened-in deck at the back of the property can be used year-round as a dining or relaxation spot, the listing notes. An outdoor fireplace also adds another cozy spot for guests to gather.
The Brooklyn Nets are nearing the end of their 2025-26 NBA season and as they approached the home stretch of the campaign, they are dealing with some critical injuries. Brooklyn has had a tough season even when they've been healthy, but these last few weeks have been about seeing what all of the players have to offer and the Nets are adding another player to the mix.
The Nets announced on Thursday that they are signing forward Trevon Scott to a 10-day contract, with HoopsHype's Michael Scotto noting that the contract is due to hardship. Essentially, the Nets have been granted a hardship exemption by the NBA, meaning that they can temporarily exceed 15 players on the roster under standard contracts due to the amount of injuries plaguing the team.
ESPN's Bobby Marks explained that the hardship exemption can be granted under four different circumstances that basically revolve around multiple players being expected to or have already missed a significant amount of time. As that pertains to Brooklyn, rookie Egor Demin and backup center Day'Ron Sharpe have been ruled out for the rest of the season with forwards Michael Porter Jr. and Danny Wolf having missed multiple games with their current injuries.
Scott, 29, has been having a solid season for the Long Island Nets, Brooklyn's G League affiliate, as he's averaging 12.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 44.9% from the field and 35.2% from three-point land. Scott being on the roster for the next 10 days would essentially keep him on the team through the end of the season as Brooklyn's last game is at the Toronto Raptors on Apr. 12.
As Scotto alluded to in his report, the Nets signing Scott could be an indication that Wolf may not play again for the rest of this season as he continues to recover from his ankle sprain. If that is the case, Wolf ends his rookie season with averages of 8.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while shooting 40.5% from the floor and 32.2% from behind the three-point line.
This is good news for Tre Scott, who is averaging 10.9 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 1.7 APG, and 1.2 SPG while shooting 42.6% from the field and 30.6% from 3 in the G League this season.
If Danny Wolf's season is indeed over, he'll end the season with averages of 8.9 PPG and 4.9 RPG. https://t.co/BHRl5fZenE
— Sharif Phillips-Keaton (@SharifKeaton) April 2, 2026
Brigham Young guard Marya Hudgins (23) looks to shoot the ball guarded by Washington State guard Mackenzie Chatfield (8) during the first half of an NCAA basketball game, Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
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Tyler Tate
Just hours after BYU’s season ended in the WBIT championship game, the Cougars lost one of their veteran players to the portal.
Junior forward Marya Hudgins will transfer out of BYU, she announced Thursday in an Instagram post.
“l am convinced we are placed in certain positions when we need them most,” Hudgins wrote. “God knew I needed BYU for many reasons and these past two years here have been nothing but pure bliss. Being able to wear BYU across my chest is something I will always be so proud of.”
In two seasons at BYU, Hudgins appeared in 34 games for the Cougars and averaged 8.1 points and 4.9 rebounds on 39% total shooting.
Each of her campaigns in Provo ended prematurely due to injuries, however, as she played in just seven contests in 2024-25 and had most recently been sidelined since mid-February 2026.
A Colorado native who transferred to BYU from Santa Clara, Hudgins has averaged 7.8 points and 5.0 rebounds across 97 career games. She will have one season of eligibility remaining at her next school.
“l am a firm believer that chapters end and pages are meant to be turned when we feel called to do so. There is so much uncertainty about starting over, but one thing does remain certain: I trust in my Savior. I am beyond ecstatic for what is next for not only me, but also my family!”
Despite Hudgins’ exit, BYU still holds a strong core heading into the future, as more than 70% of the Cougars’ scoring production this past season came from freshmen and sophomores, headlined by Delaney Gibb, Olivia Hamlin and Sydney Benally.
The national average for diesel fuel on April 1 was $5.490 and that is a strain to NASCAR teams like Kaulig Racing who say it has taken a toll on its intended budget before the season began in February.
The military conflict in Iran has led to a surge in prices and while it dropped to just over $5 on April 2 following a national address by the President of the United States offering that the matter should be resolved soon, the past month has hit race teams hard.
Chris Rice, the president of Kaulig Racing, detailed on Thursday how this has affected his team since the increase in prices.
“Oh, it's been big,” Rice said on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio’s The Morning Drive. “I'll tell you an inside story of us … back in January … we spent a lot of money in fuel running parts here and there, doing this and that.
“Now we actually have a group text, it's called the ‘traveling group text’ for Kaulig Racing where we plan our trips accordingly. If we can wait a day and pick up more stuff in a day, we'll do that. I was talking to our truck (hauler) drivers and saying, ‘Hey, watch fuel prices to make sure that, since we’re only going to Rockingham, do we need to fill it all the way up?
“Will the fuel prices come down? We keep our eyes on that. We look for ways that we can find locations that sell it a little bit cheaper. Every dollar matters with us and in the Truck Series.”
Kaulig Racing entered the Truck Series this season as a RAM factory team and their budget for that is already higher than the standard team because they don’t have an established notebook or inventory yet.
“So this is all costing us a bit more than anticipated,” Rice said. “We’ve never run a Truck Series budget. Ty Norris (Chief Operating Officer) tells me all the time that he’s never seen someone like me keeping track every spoon and fork we buy.
“But yes, the fuel prices have really put a huge hit into our budget. It is what it is. We have to budget for everything and we’ve already torn up more fenders this year than we expected to too. But the fuel prices are rough right now.”
Kaulig, and the industry is fortunate at least, that Cup is off this weekend and all three divisions have been racing close to home with stops at Darlington, Martinsville, Rockingham and Bristol.
MIAMI — David Beckham stood near the middle of the pitch, soaking it all in as the final touches were being made at Inter Miami’s Nu Stadium, the club's co-owner glancing up at the scoreboard and all the work that had already been completed.
Beckham was. among the first to kick a soccer ball before Inter Miami star Lionel Messi and his teammates held an open training practice for season ticket holders on Thursday.
Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suárez were among the first players to touch the pitch as several thousand fans took in the $350 million venue before it officially opens Saturday, April 4 at 7:30 p.m. against Austin FC.
Messi was limited in practice after a two-game stint with Argentina, but expected to start Saturday.
“This is a stadium that was born out of a dream,” Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas said. “Six years ago, we didn't have a club. For us, it's important. It was always our dream to build a special football stadium. It is a global sport. We're a global city. I want this to be the home of football in the United States of America.”
Among the highlights of the European-style, soccer-specific venue with 26,700 seats:– The Leo Messi Stand dedicated to the two-time MLS MVP, spanning from sections 117-121 in the lower bowl and 217-223 in the upper bowl in the middle of the pitch — dedicated to the two-time MLS MVP and Argentine World Cup champion.
“I was talking to Leo there about the stadium, the experience, how he felt of seeing Lionel Messi stand when he walks out of the tunnel,” Mas said. “And for a living player, that's unheard of. It's going to be amazing.”
David Beckham gets a view of Inter Miami’s Nu Stadium right in the middle of the pitch.
— Large photos of Inter Miami memories from the 2025 MLS Cup title run welcome fans after a climb of about 50 steps onto the first concourse.— The seats are alternated in pink, gray and white with black seats used to spell out Inter Miami and to shape a heron, the team’s mascot. However, there are still some seats to be installed and numbered before the opening match.
With the opener two days away, thousands of security and police personnel were on hand for the test event. While the areas surrounding the stadium and parking garage will remain under construction, there are sectioned off areas for fans to navigate toward the stadium. The plan remains to have as much of the venue complete for the opener.“We have some things obviously to finish and touch up and things that happen with construction,” Mas said. “But the most important thing for me is to give an amazing experience, a place where we'll be very hard to beat.”Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano added: “Hopefully, Saturday, the stadium will be full. It’s almost sold out. It’ll be a great day for everybody that has been with the club.”
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami take their first steps on the Nu Stadium pitch for a practice before Saturday’s opener. pic.twitter.com/m1Kr0jtQPZ
Arguably no female college athletes have better maximized their NIL (name, image and likeness) opportunities while in college like the Cavinder Twins.
As college basketball players at Fresno State and Miami, Haley and Hanna Cavinder revolutionized how female athletes can utilize NIL by monetizing their personal social platforms. Those efforts helped the 25-year-old twins set the stage for their post-college careers as social media influencers and budding entrepreneurs, and maybe future WWE superstars.
Haley and Hanna Cavinder opened up about their own experience with NIL and how it helped shape their future outside of athletics during a recent sit-down with former WWE executive Stephanie McMahon, daughter of WWE co-founder Vince McMahon.
“I think nowadays, name, image and likeness for female athletes in college has been so huge,” Haley Cavinder told McMahon on her What’s Your Story? with Steph McMahon podcast. “Because even in women’s basketball, there’s such a limited percentage of you going pro. … So being able to learn about the networking and the name of the game in college for females has been good to see. The younger generation can (learn how) you can maximize your name, image and likeness in college and kind of profit off that, and then learn your entrepreneurial skills and business skills for the future when you graduate.
“So I think it’s been so beneficial for females, and it’s so good to see. Because you never would have thought (about) name, image and likeness for female athletes. It’s always about the quarterback at the big Power Five schools.”
McMahon harkened back to a previous conversation with Livvy Dunne about how the former LSU gymnast-turned-content creator started an educational program for female collegiate athletes to learn the ins and outs of making the most of their NIL opportunities while in school. It was then that Hanna Cavinder highlighted the importance of building a strong foundation while in school, including signing with a reputable agency, to better be able to hit the ground running upon graduation.
“And you can set yourself up right afterwards too. … How you continue it, because everybody’s always like, ‘What’s next?’ And I think it’s really important to have a team (around you),” Hanna Cavinder added. “We have a great agency that we’ve been with for five years and they’re very big on getting us equity within deals, having us start our own brands, and being very creative within those brands. So I think that’s really important too, and it’s amazing that Livvy is doing that too.”
The Cavinder twins first signed with WWE in 2021, as part of their Next In Line (NIL) program to develop college athletes into professional wrestlers. One of the signings from that class, Isaac Odugbesan (Oba Femi), is making his WrestleMania debut against Brock Lesnar in the coming weeks.
The Cavinders, meanwhile, have continued to bolster their public image by signing endorsement deals with Champs Sports, SoFi, Eastbay, and GoPuff. They were even tabbed as brand ambassadors for Under Armour in July 2024 and are part of MGM’s Final Four advertising this weekend in Las Vegas.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson answers questions from the media during the NFL Scouting Combine on February 27, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
A popular talking point, for most teams, is to trade down in the NFL draft and accumulate picks. After all, the more swings you have, the more likely it is that you hit on a prospect.
The San Francisco 49ers enter the 2026 NFL Draft with picks in the first and second rounds, as well as four fourth-round picks. The Niners don’t have a third-round pick after they upped their original offer to land a quality starting 3-technique.
We’re seeing players mocked in the first round that would be selected in the 50s and 60s next year. When a running back, linebacker, and safety are recognized as the best players in the draft, you’re not going to see conjecture about trades. That’s been the case during this draft cycle.
You can identify contributors through the third round of this draft. Contributors≠Starters. If you’re going to move draft assets, it’s not for somebody who can pitch in here and there. You’re making a trade for an impact player.
Is there a player worth trading up for in the NFL Draft?
We don’t have to limit a trade to the first round. NFL teams certainly don’t. If we’re attempting to map out what positions the 49ers will select, wide receiver and edge rusher make sense for the first two picks. By the fourth round, adding a safety, a left guard, a running back, and another player from the trenches, just to be safe, seems like the correct approach.
Let’s say the draft doesn’t fall the 49ers’ way in the first or second round. John Lynch could package a couple of those fourth round picks to move into the third round. The same could be true if a player the team is higher on to begin the second round is falling through the cracks. That’s when having four fourth-rounders would come in handy.
If it comes down to moving up in the first round, are Dillon Thieneman or Emmanuel McNeil-Warren impactful enough to trade up for? Not in my eyes. That’s not a slight on either player. If the prospect isn’t making every level of my defense(or offense) better, that’s not a player worth moving up for.
Defensively, that’s either a player from the secondary who can affect the game in multiple ways or an edge rusher who wins on every down. Let’s stick with the defensive line for this exercise.
The one defensive tackle that has the talent to trade up for broke his foot at the NFL Combine, and was already an enigma. As much as a Keldric Faulk or Zion Young would help the 49ers’ defense, those aren’t the kind of players you trade up for. On offense, Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson would be tempting. His movement skills at 6’2″ and knack for making the big play are intriguing, but it’s impossible to ignore his injury history.
My answer: No, not this year. The 49ers would be better served to stand pat and take the best player on the board. There are a bunch of different flavors at wide receiver. The grade for the prospect at 27 might not be all that different than the one at 58. Forcing a pick at a position of need is what has gotten the team in trouble.
Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks off the mound during their game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on March 30, 2026. | Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
For many years, fans of Midwest and northeast teams wondered why MLB didn’t schedule most early series in warmer weather. Now, for two seasons they’ve made it happen. Just like the 2025 season, when they opened against the Dodgers and the Mariners on the road, the Tigers opening road trip has ended with a 4-2 record after a series victory over the Padres and then getting swept out of Arizona.
Of course, we have the voice of Sparky Anderson in our ears this time of year, reminding us to give it 40 games before making any definitive conclusions about a team. Even that only tells you so much, as teams evolve and change throughout a season to an even greater degree than they did in Sparky’s day. That would put up into the road series against division rivals in Kansas City from May 8-10 before the old skipper would say you really know the team you have for the season. Of course, the 2025 Tigers at the 40, 80, and even 120 game mark didn’t prepare us for the utter collapse of the club over the final five weeks of the season. Baseball.
Personally, while the 40-game thing makes sense as a quality sample before considering too much radical reaction, I’ve started to think more in terms of 10-game blocks, corresponding to two turns through the rotation. That also provides a little easy comparison with the old 16-game NFL schedule most of us grew up on. Thinking of it that way, the Tigers are down two scores early in the third quarter of their first game. Breaking it down like that is just more natural to me, avoiding wild overreactions to any short stretch of games, without just sitting back for a month and a half watching things unfold.
However you break it down, overreactions in either direction are pretty ridiculous at this point. Whether you were pretty confident in the Tigers heading into the season, or whether you think the club still has too many flaws to be a top threat in October, you should probably keep that energy through April. Or you can ride the rollercoaster. To each their own.
Slumber instead of lumber
The argument for the Tigers this year is pretty simple. They won 86 games in 2024, 87 in 2025, and they added one of the better starting pitchers in baseball and called up arguably the best prospect in baseball into their everyday lineup. Of course, Framber Valdez and Kevin McGonigle’s ability to put the Tigers over the top to finally win the division is predicated on the other regulars in the rotation and lineup handling their business as expected.
In the early going, Colt Keith and Dillon Dingler have been excellent, both showing some signs of building on their 2025 campaigns. Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson, who are needed to provide plenty of power and run production, have scuffled. Kerry Carpenter meanwhile, has started off the year in a deep funk, striking out 12 times in just 25 plate appearances.
Obviously the Tigers need those three bats to give the Tigers similar production to last year, at a minimum. You’d love the three to be more consistent as well, but there aren’t many in the game, even among “All-Star” caliber hitters, who bang out good production month after month without any slumps during a baseball season. As long as they combine for 80 homers or more with a good combined on-base percentage, the Tigers’ run production will be in a good place. Likewise, a really bad year from one of them could really undercut the offense.
Torkelson really seemed to settle into his major league groove last season, avoiding the catastrophic slumps that plagued him from 2022-2024. He’s also the one with the most disciplined approach and should benefit somewhat more from the ABS challenge system than the rest. Of course, he’s got to use those challenges wisely to get the most of it, and that’s a unique new skill introduced to MLB this season.
Greene I just don’t worry about except physically. He’d trended steadily better and better through four seasons in the league until falling apart in the second half last year. At age 25, he’s just into what should be his prime years, but he also lost another step in the speed department last year. If you’re feeling worried about Greene’s ability to get back on track at the plate, that’s fair. I’m not, but it is at least clear that his defensive value has slipped considerably and there’s no injury to pin it on. Seeing Hinch pinch-run Jahmai Jones for Greene in the top of the ninth on Wednesday was just another signal that Greene’s once modestly above average speed is gone and that’s going to continue to ding his defensive profile.
As for Carpenter, this is where I get a little more concerned. Carpenter’s plate discipline and contact ability have always been mediocre, but he’s more than made up for it by pulling the ball in the air a lot and doing plenty of damage. However, he’s also been riddled with back and hamstring issues over the past few years, and unlike the other two sluggers, Carpenter isn’t in his mid-20’s, and is instead closing in on 29 years old this summer. For a baseball player in this era, that’s getting into middle age where hitting smarts have to make up for physical decline. At least Carpenter is moving well and looks healthy right now, so hopefully he’ll get going, but another season trying to play through nagging injuries will do his numbers no good.
Beyond Keith and Dingler, obviously the big story here is McGonigle. He’s shown himself fully ready to handle major league pitching, producing plenty of hard contact, plenty of hits, plenty of walks, and minimal strikeouts. He holds a 187 wRC+ through six major league games, with 12 percent walk and strikeout rates. Even better, he’s been a bit unlucky and his control of the strikezone has been elite in the very early going. As promised since early on last season, the Tigers have an absolute gem here. His upgraded defense and sprint times have just been icing on the cake.
In other, yes it’s extremely early news, Max Clark is off to a nice start with the Mud Hens. He needs that seasoning in my opinion, whereas McGonigle did not, but hopefully Clark will be ready to bring that athleticism, discipline, and contact ability to the Tigers lineup by mid-season if not sooner.
Starting rotation
You can take it as a positive early sign or be frustrated by the fact that the Tigers’ rotation did their job pretty well and yet the team only came away with two wins. They got four excellent starts, one poor one from Jack Flaherty, and one from Justin Verlander that was just bad. The Tigers will do well this season if that’s how most six game stretches play out.
Having Tarik Skubal and Framber Valdez atop the rotation has looked every bit as good as expected. Casey Mize stuggled to spot his fastball and breaking stuff early on in his outing against the Diamondbacks on Tuesday, but he managed to survive with some heavy doses of his splitter and his command improved as he went along. He finished his six inning outing with one earned run allowed, racking up 15 whiffs and seven strikeouts on the night. The interaction between his two fastball types and the splitter has never looked better to me.
Verlander however, just had nothing for the Diamondbacks on Monday. He’s always conserved his energy in early spring and paced himself for a seven month season. The fact that his velocity was down to 93.2 mph from his 2025 average (93.9 mph) isn’t my concern, particularly as he was feeling for his mechanics the whole outing. His fastball command and ability to shape and spot his breaking stuff were wildly inconsistent. We’ll see better command as long as he’s feeling healthy, but for all of us already fearful of a failed last stand for the 43-year-old future Hall of Famer, a little reassurance in the form of some quality starts early on would help the cause over the rest of the month. His margin for error is reduced from even 2-3 years ago, and he’s relying on command of the full pitch mix these days.
Bullpen issues forever
Unfortunately, the reconstructed bullpen couldn’t give us even a week of peace before the Tigers’ unending struggles in this department reared their head again. The Tigers signed Kyle Finnegan after getting some good work from him in the second half last year. That looks like a good addition. The Tigers got the right-hander using his splitter a lot more than he did in Washington, with good effect. This spring his velocity has been up a touch and his slider has looked pretty good as well. After pitching in semi-obscurity for a team notorious for its poor pitching development, the Tigers may have caught Finnegan at the right time to get a peak season or two out of him.
On the downside, Kenley Jansen gave the Tigers one good outing to close out the Padres on Opening Day, but then was called into a desperate situation on Tuesday after Drew Anderson got into trouble trying to hold a big lead for a second inning. Will Vest came on and was wild for a few hitters, digging the hole much deeper, until finally righting the ship and getting the first two outs of the inning. By then he was at 27 pitches, and Hinch decided to turn to Jansen. The veteran relief great fired two cutters down to get to a 1-1 count, and then fired a third right into rookie Jose Fernandez’s sweet spot and it got launched for the second home run of the rookie’s major league debut.
Leaving aside the fact that Jansen’s strikeout rates took a big hit in 2025 and he fits better as a setup level reliever now and shouldn’t be the automatic closer, this was also one of those moments where Hinch gave a new reliever an early test and it really blew up in his face. Anderson is still getting used to relief work. Taking his strong first inning and saying thank you very much, was probably the move. Vest in the eighth, Jansen in the ninth, no one has to enter in the middle of someone else’s jam. Hinch believes in testing guys in unfamiliar scenarios early in the season, and there’s some wisdom in that, but in this case, Vest struggled, and that led to Jansen, who has spent his career mainly pitching with a clean slate in the ninth even throughout the long prime of his career. Now that’s he’s just a setup caliber reliever rather than an ace closer, having to put him into fireman situations is rather less than ideal.
The Tigers boosted their depth and got some insurance for the rotation this offseason by signing left-hander Enmanuel de Jesus and right-hander Drew Anderson after both pitched well as starters in South Korea last year. Quite a few teams have found bargains coming back from the KBO, and both pitchers looked good in spring camp and have had some time to get acclimated to both the bullpen and the MLB ball. They both have enough stuff to start, and should give A.J. Hinch a lot of flexibiity in long and middle relief, but early on their command out of the pen has been shaky. Brant Hurter looks like his usual solid self, while Tyler Holton had a good spring and his velocity has been up.
Overall, this looks like a better bullpen than in 2025, with a lot more depth and flexibility. But the Tigers still lack one killer reliever to pair with Vest, particularly as even the best relievers, and Vest has arguably been a top ten reliever in baseball since August of 2024 tend toward up and down seasons. Finnegan might give them that much, and at least adds some swing and miss that the bullpen has lacked. Still, feeling comfortable with a relief group just isn’t something we’re familiar with, and until Vest illustrates that he’s still got lockdown mode engaged and someone else steps up, we’ll be on the edge holding leads late as usual. We’d also be remiss not to give credit to a pretty dangerous Diamondbacks lineup.
So, after six games, there is still plenty to like over last year, and plenty to worry about too. No different than I felt during spring training. The Tigers have their share of strengths in the rotation and young hitters entering their prime, but the free swinging middle of the order power bats and the need for another dominant reliever in the pen could prove their undoing.
Boston struck out 38 times and were outscored 23-7 in this three-game sweep.
“Just unacceptable, really, on both sides of the ball,” Red Sox veteran leader Trevor Story said. “Defense, too. So overall, not good. And looking to reset here on the off day and get back at home at Fenway, where we dominate and play in front of our home crowd. So I’m excited about that.”
The Red Sox have Thursday off before opening a six-game homestand against the Padres on Friday at 2:10 p.m.
Manager Alex Cora’s team has struggled in basically every area of the game.
Entering the season, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow called the Red Sox’ identity and strength their pitching and ability to prevent runs. But the starting rotation is 1-3 with a 5.22 ERA. The defense has made six errors, including two on Wednesday.
Boston’s bullpen has allowed 11 earned runs in 22 innings (4.50 ERA).
Meanwhile, the offense has averaged 2.8 runs per game. Boston has scored three or fewer runs in four of its six games.
“Obviously not good,” Story said. “Today was better. A lot of better at-bats. Had some traffic out there and had some movement, so a step in the right direction. But we’ve got to find a way to be more consistent. We have a lot of good hitters, but we’re not moving the line the way we should, and that’s how our offense is built.”
BETTING: Boston moneyline is listed at -141 for Friday’s game versus San Diego on Kalshi. You can also view our guide to the best Massachusetts sportsbooks to shop for the best odds.
Story called himself out. He’s 4 for 29 (.138) with zero walks and 13 strikeouts.
“Personally, I’ve got to be a little more disciplined, finding and hunting the one I want,” he said. “And not missing it when I get it.”
Caleb Durbin, who the Red Sox acquired in a trade with the Brewers on Feb. 9, is 0 for 18 with five strikeouts. Roman Anthony is batting .227 (5 for 22), although he hit a pinch-hit home run in the ninth inning Wednesday.
Every hitter is batting below .228 except Wilyer Abreu, Carlos Narváez and Connor Wong.
As a team, the Red Sox are hitting .208 with a .295 on-base percentage, .347 slugging percentage and .642 OPS.
“We’re getting beat in the zone,” Cora said. “We’ve been chasing too, but I think we’ve been getting beat in the zone. So that’s something we have to address right away. We’ve got to be ready for Friday.”
There’s still another 156 games. Boston won 89 games last year after beginning 1-4. So there should be a balance — players should feel disappointment without overreacting.
“I try to look at things in a positive sense,” Story said. “Maybe this is good this is happening now and a little gut check and we figure it out — we make the adjustments. But we know we have a great team. We know we can be good. So it’s just about us, the players, to make the adjustments that we need to make. And we have time on our side, but there’s urgency, for sure. This was unacceptable.”
The Michigan-Arizona Final Four national semifinal is a sexy heavyweight matchup this Saturday in Indianapolis. The Wolverines and Wildcats have been two of the three best college basketball teams all season long, and with Duke out of the picture, Saturday's meeting will produce a team favored to win the national championship on Monday night, April 6. Dusty May and Tommy Lloyd form one part of this larger clash. It's no accident Michigan and Arizona have gotten this far. Their coaches are setting the standard in the industry.
Tommy Lloyd at halftime against Purdue
Tommy Lloyd did not take credit for Arizona's second-half rally against Purdue in the Elite Eight. He said the players needed to figure things out. Player empowerment is a big thing for Tommy Lloyd, and it paid off.
Anti-Bobby Knight
Bobby Knight was, is, and always will be a great Hall of Fame coach. Nothing about his personality or his bitterness in later life will change that. However, Bobby Knight simply did not coach the way Tommy Lloyd does. That doesn't make Knight wrong. It just makes him less of a fit for today.
Tough love versus modern athletes
All athletes do need to be challenged and pushed in some way, but the tough love approach of old-school coaches is less in fashion these days. Bobby Knight had players willing to embrace tough love, but that style just doesn't fly today -- not regularly. Rick Pitino sometimes throws his players under the bus. Mick Cronin does so as well, and players do respond to him at times, but those coaches are exceptional rather than representative of the modern coach-player dynamic.
No Brian Kelly
Brian Kelly coaches football, not hoops, but his purple-faced rage poured onto players at Notre Dame and LSU reflects a mindset of an older coach and an older way of doing things. Dusty May and Tommy Lloyd are cut from a very different kind of cloth.
Calm is king
Dusty May and Tommy Lloyd are not angry coaches. They will get mad at bad calls like the rest of them, but their dispositions on the sidelines are so noticeably mellow and restrained. They value the ferocity of competition but both realize that being calm is the best thing they can be to -- and for -- their players. If they exhibit serenity in the midst of the chaos, their players will follow suit. It's not the way older coaches -- even the successful ones -- generally carried themselves.
Lute Olson and Tommy Lloyd at Arizona
It's fitting that Tommy Lloyd has taken Arizona back to the Lute Olson standard -- the Final Four -- because Lute Olson was in many ways the new-age coach of the past in college basketball. Lute was very poised and did not go ballistic the way so many of his peers did. In many ways he modeled the "cool" coach before this new generation of coaches did. Tommy Lloyd has truly taken the torch from Lute in Tucson.
Not an accident
It's not a pure coincidence that Michigan and Arizona not only play winning basketball, but fun basketball. They like to push pace, can score with the best of them, share the ball, and often hit their opponents with devastating runs. There are many ways to win games, but Dusty May and Tommy Lloyd have created teams which often win in an aesthetically pleasing way. That doesn't seem like a minor or peripheral detail. These coaches like making the game fun for players, and integrating the winning into the fun.
Pete Carroll in college basketball
Pete Carroll was an older coach who grasped how to relate to the modern athlete better than the vast majority of his peers did. In this sense, Dusty May and Tommy Lloyd -- in their unique ability to blend an appreciation for fun, competition, and success -- are spiritual successors of Carroll.
Won't be the last hurrah
Michigan with Dusty May and Arizona with Tommy Lloyd -- provided he doesn't leave for North Carolina -- will get back to this stage many times. These coaches are poised to be at the center of the conversation in college basketball for a long time.
Tommy Lloyd to North Carolina
If Tommy Lloyd does leave for North Carolina, his new rivalry with Duke and Jon Scheyer could create a majestic new era in Duke-UNC hoops. There was Coach K against Dean Smith and then Roy Williams. Scheyer-Lloyd, if it becomes reality later this month, could be a decades-long epic battle which would take Duke-Carolina back to its place as a classic matchup of annual heavyweights.
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Vlahovic eager for new Juventus contract, but significant problems remain
Dusan Vlahovic will be a free agent on July 1 unless he agrees a new contract with Juventus, but there are two big problems stalling negotiations.
The striker recently returned from a long injury lay-off and remains eager to extend his stay in Turin, despite no shortage of other clubs interested in his services.
Those include Milan, where he’d reunite with Max Allegri, Arsenal and potentially also teams in Spain.
What Vlahovic wants from Juventus
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC lies injured during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
It is hoped they can do a deal for a reduced salary of €6-7m per season from the current €12m including add-ons.
The biggest issue seems to be that agent Darko Ristic wants a significant commission if he is to organise this contract, seeing as he would earn a lot more if shopping Vlahovic to other clubs.
Juventus hope that the arrival of father Milos Vlahovic at the negotiating table will help smooth things over and reach a compromise.
Harry Wilson: Man United eye bargain swoop for in-form Premier League star
Signing Premier League-proven talent has proven to be a massive hit for Manchester United.
Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, both signed from Premier League sides, have clearly elevated the Red Devils. United’s attack was their major weakness before the summer of 2025. Landing the duo, along with Benjamin Sesko, has now turned this position into one of United’s greatest strengths.
Heading into this summer’s transfer window, a wise INEOS would definitely prioritise Premier League stars to address their transfer needs.
INEOS keen on PL talent
There have already been links to Premier League talent. Elliott Anderson and Sandro Tonali are being targeted to bolster the midfield. Murillo, Cristian Romero, and Micky van de Ven are top defensive targets.
But it is not just them; the Manchester Reds are watching plenty of Premier League stars, with the latest to pop up on their radar being Fulham’s Harry Wilson. Wilson has been so impressive this season that it is as though he has finally hit his prime.
The 29-year-old forward’s movement and decision-making have been top-class this season. He has directly influenced games, and the Cottagers are reaping the rewards of his creativity. Wilson already has 18 goal contributions: 11 goals and 7 assists in the Premier League. He has been absolutely class.
His brilliance has not gone unnoticed, with Teamtalk reporting that a long list of Premier League sides are keen on his services.
Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Leeds United and Sunderland are all keen on his services. Liverpool could also try to bring him back to Anfield.
Man United also keen on Harry Wilson
However, as those sides look to sway the Wales star, United, as per the UK outlet, are a team to watch.
Teamtalk confirms: “We are also told that Manchester United are keeping an eye on the situation. Wilson has truly emerged as one of the most intriguing free agents for a long time.
“Wilson is now facing a major decision over his future, and his people are due to engage in talks in the coming weeks to lock down the options.”
A move for Wilson makes perfect sense for United, not just because he is quality and Premier League-proven, but also because he can be snapped up on a free transfer.
Wilson’s deal at Craven Cottage expires in the summer, leaving him free to choose his next club.
Perfect option if United miss out on top winger targets
Hopefully, United convince him to sign, as he could offer them the left-wing option they crave, serving as a back-up plan should a marquee winger deal fall through.
With bolstering the midfield at the top of United’s agenda and a huge chunk of the transfer budget set to be spent there, it is uncertain whether United will go toe-to-toe with European heavyweights in the race for top wingers like Yan Diomande and Ndiaye.
So, if the 20-time English champions fall short in those transfer battles, a move for Wilson on a free transfer could be the perfect move to pull off.
Liverpool Identify This Real Madrid Playmaker As A Target: What Will He Bring To Anfield?
In a recent report, Fichajes revealed that Liverpool have identified Real Madrid playmaker Arda Guler as a target. It has been mentioned that the Reds are eyeing a move to bring the Turkish talent to Merseyside this summer.
Guler’s Impressive Numbers In Spanish Football
Guler has enjoyed an impressive campaign at the Madrid club as he has been responsible for putting in a string of eye-catching performances for them in La Liga. The Turkish talent has participated in 45 matches for Los Blancos this season, scoring four times and grabbing 13 assists in all competitions.
The 21-year-old is currently one of the best playmakers in La Liga. Hence, the Reds would do well to lure him to Anfield this off-season.
His current contract at the Madrid club will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it tough for Liverpool to land him on the cheap in the upcoming transfer period.
MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 14: Arda Guler of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and Elche CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 14, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
What Will Guler Bring To Liverpool?
Guler can strike the ball with venom from long range and has got the eye to play a few killer passes on the offensive end of the pitch. He is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet and can contribute by creating a lot of important goals for his side.
The Turkish sensation is primarily an attacking midfielder but can also serve as a box-to-box midfielder or as a right-sided wide player if asked to do so by his manager. However, it remains to be seen whether he can cope with the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Reds manage to get a deal over the line for him this off-season.
Guler would bring more creativity and depth to Liverpool‘s frontline. He is good enough to serve as an ideal replacement for Mohamed Salah, who is set to leave the Merseyside club at the end of this campaign.
At 21, the future looks quite bright for Guler as long as he continues to improve with each season. He might even help the Reds challenge for some major trophies over the next decade. With all things considered, Liverpool should focus on going all out to bring Guler to Anfield in the summer transfer period.
Eduards Tralmaks scored his 23rd and 24th goals of the season in the Grand Rapids Griffins’ 5-0 win against the Rockford IceHogs Wednesday night. Michael Brandsegg-Nygard had a goal and an assist. John Leonard picked up a point to give him 30 goals and 17 assists for 47 points.
With the offensive struggles the Red Wing are enduring, wouldn’t it make sense to give one or two of these players a chance to show what he can do? What if your put Tralmaks with Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond to see what he can do? Or, maybe put Leonard with Larkin and Raymond?
— y-Grand Rapids Griffins (@griffinshockey) April 2, 2026
Maybe, perhaps probably, we will find out that their skills won’t translate in the NHL game. But we won’t know for sure unless we see those players up playing with elite players. But what would it cost the Red Wings to give them a shot? What do the Red Wings have to lose? According to Bob Duff’s story today, the Red Wings offense is averaging 2.37 goals per game for the past 23 games.
Tralmaks already has multiple European offers and likely will return there next season if he doesn’t receive an NHL look.
it’s clear captain Dylan Larkin is playing through an injury. What’s always true in sports is when you return to the lineup isn’t when you return to being the player you were before the injury.
This is what Detroit coach Todd McLellan said about Larkin’s play after Detroit’s last game:
“Give him credit for slugging through it, and it’s clear he’s not 100% the way he’s skating yet,” McLellan said. “There’s some situations that he has to play better. If you’re going to put the gear on, you have to be real good and positionally sound. So we expect that from him. We’ll have to manage him a little bit with situations and minutes, but when he is out there, we have to expect the best from him.”
Philadelphia: Tyson Foerster is returning from the injured list for Thursday’s game vs. the Red Wings.
Pittsburgh: Dan Kingerski wonders whether we are seeing the last games of Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang playing together. They’ve been together for two decades. Pittsburgh Penguins.
Tom Aspinall is one of the most efficient finishers the Octagon has ever seen.
Joe Rogan described the way Aspinall’s fight with Ciryl Gane ended as a “crime” because the matchup was starting to get very interesting.
The Brit has been so consistent with stopping his opponents early that his challenger being able to survive the first few minutes suddenly made the clash more compelling.
While Aspinall is still a long way out from being able to fight again due to his eye injuries, another member of the roster is continuing to be the definition of kill or be killed.
Terrance McKinney overtakes Tom Aspinall for shortest average fight time after UFC Seattle
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Terrance McKinney is still without a Performance of the Night bonus after earning his eighth first-round finish inside the Octagon this past weekend.
He knocked out Kyle Nelson in just 24 seconds at UFC Seattle, which is shockingly only the third fastest win that he’s produced since signing to the promotion in 2021.
Tom Aspinall held the record for shortest average fight time among fighters with at least five bouts in the promotion and was a lock to keep it if he started taking fights deeper into rounds.
However, McKinney not going past the opening round for seven consecutive outings means that he’s been able to claim the top spot, with an average fight time of just 2:16, which is two seconds less than Aspinall.
T Wrecks’ has now had five UFC fights that have lasted less than a minute, which includes his 37-second loss to Esteban Ribovics.
The American posted on X that fans don’t need to be concerned about him because the UFC takes care of him after not receiving a Performance of the Night bonus this past weekend.
The American posted on X that fans don’t need to be concerned about him because the UFC takes care of him after not receiving a Performance of the Night bonus this past weekend.
That’s it, we now know all the teams qualified for the 2026 World Cup.
Unsurprisingly, like Les Bleus, some teams were less fortunate when the groups were drawn.
So the question is, which is the toughest group at the World Cup? To help answer it, here’s the ranking of the groups based on the average FIFA ranking of the teams in them.
12) Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland (average FIFA ranking: 42.3).
11) Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay (37.3).
10) Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador (37.3).
9) Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand. (36)
8) Group: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Czech Republic. (35.3)
7) Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland. (35)
6) Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama. (30.5)
5) Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan. (29.5)
4) Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia. (28.5)
3) Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia. (26.8)
2) Group D: Australia, Panama, United States, Turkey. (26.3)
1) Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, Iraq. (25.7)
It’s worth noting that this method produces a few surprises, especially Group E, which is only 10th despite featuring Germany, Ivory Coast and Ecuador, but is weighed down by Curaçao’s ranking.
Move over, Tom Brady. There’s a new big-money QB in town. Kirk Cousins just cashed in with the Las Vegas Raiders, flipping the script and securing a bag bigger than anyone saw coming.
Vegas is still expected to call Fernando Mendoza’s name first overall later this month. But bringing in Cousins? That’s the game plan. This has “bridge QB” written all over it. A veteran stopgap to steady the offense, run the system, and keep the locker room locked in while the rookie learns the ropes. Not a replacement, more like a mentor with a cannon arm and playoff scars.
However, Kirk Cousins is about to rewrite the NFL money playbook, per Spotrac on X. Cousins is set to leapfrog Tom Brady in career earnings with a total of $341 million compared to Brady’s $333M.
Breaking Down Kirk Cousins’ Raiders’ Deal
Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
On the field, Cousins’ recent stint with the Atlanta Falcons was a mixed bag: 5,229 yards, 28 TDs, 21 picks, 87.2 passer rating in 24 games. And a cool $100M paycheck for the ride.
Now in Vegas, the contract looks massive, but don’t get it twisted. It’s basically a one-year flyer disguised as a blockbuster deal. The Raiders can bail after next season, void the final two years, and move on clean. No cap nightmares, no long-term baggage.
Cousins might technically be a backup, but he’s being paid like a luxury insurance policy. His base salary slots him as the second-highest-paid QB2 in the league, trailing only Justin Fields with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Even crazier? Vegas is only on the hook for $1.3M of his $10M base, with the Falcons eating the rest in 2026. The Raiders just secured a veteran bridge QB, a rookie mentor, and elite injury insurance… at a discount. That’s a front office play-calling at its finest.
Iga Swiatek is entering a crucial phase of the season as the WTA Tour shifts towards clay. The Polish star is expected to begin her campaign at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart on 13 April.
Her preparation has been deliberate. Swiatek has been training in Spain at the Rafa Nadal Academy, refining her game ahead of competing on a surface where she has already enjoyed significant success.
Recent changes have also shaped her approach. She has brought in Francisco Roig as part of her coaching setup, adding experience from one of the most dominant eras in tennis history.
Rafael Nadal spotted offering guidance as Iga Swiatek prepares for clay season
Photo by Richard Callis ATPImages/Getty Images
A video shared on social media shows Rafael Nadal alongside Swiatek and Roig during a training session, with the Spaniard appearing to discuss technical details.
The clip captures a rare moment. Nadal, widely known as the ‘King of Clay’, built his legacy on the surface, winning 14 French Open titles and establishing himself as its greatest player ever.
His presence adds weight to Swiatek’s preparation. Working at his academy already places her in a familiar environment, but direct interaction offers an additional layer of insight.
Roig’s role further strengthens that connection. Having coached Nadal for nearly two decades, he brings continuity between past dominance and Swiatek’s current ambitions. The combination suggests a focused build-up to the clay swing.
With Stuttgart approaching, Swiatek appears to be aligning her preparation with some of the most proven expertise in the sport.
FORT WORTH, TX - JULY 14: Cam Caminiti talks to media after being drafted by the Atlanta Braves with the 24th pick of the first round during the 2024 MLB Draft presented by Nike at Cowtown Coliseum on Sunday, July 14, 2024 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Gene Wang/Getty Images) | Getty Images
With the Emperors season starting this Thursday, Rome has released their Opening Day roster – let’s take a look at how the roster is setup in what should hopefully be a strong season. We’ve already gone over the rosters for both Augusta and Columbus earlier today and here’s a look at the Gwinnett roster from last week as well. Without further ado, let’s get into it:
Rome boasts a very strong starting rotation with all five in, or near the BP Top 30, headlined by Cam Caminiti – fresh off an amazing 2025 campaign. Following him will be four right handed starters, the hard throwing Cedric de Grandpre, the hard throwing Jeremy Reyes, and Cade Kuehler. There is a lot of velocity in this starting rotation, but also tons of polished breaking pitches with the Caminiti sweeper and the Kuehler slider.
Relief Pitchers
Trent Buchanan, RHP
Colin Daniel, RHP
Riley Frey, LHP
Isaac Gallegos, RHP
Owen Hackman, RHP
Logan Samuels, RHP
Justin Long, RHP
David Rodriguez, RHP
Jacob Kroeger, LHP
Jacob Shafer, RHP
The relief core has a lot of experience with potentially Trent Buchanan leading the charge. Trent, coming off of a very strong 2025 season, where he had a 2.53 ERA across 28 games and two levels. Isaac Gallegos had an 3.18 ERA across 51 innings last season as well to go with a 8.47 K/9 and 3.35 BB/9 rate. Riley Frey and Jacob Kroeger will be the long lefties in the bullpen, with Riley having made an appearance in Columbus last season, while Jacob Kroeger had a 1.98 ERA across two levels last season. Braves 11th round pick Colin Daniel will be making his organizational debut in Rome as well.
Catchers
Colin Burgess, RHB
Mac Guscette, RHB
Rome will add Colin Burgess to a catching room that had Mac Guscette last season.
Infielders
John Gil, RHB
Mason Guerra, RHB
Colby Jones, RHB
Cody Miller, RHB
Dixon Williams, LHB
Will Verdung, RHB
The Rome infield will have some of the highest upside in the organization as top prospects John Gil, Cody Miller, and Dixon Williams will likely have starting roles while Colby Jones, Will Verdung, and Mason Guerra rotate for playing time.
Outfielders
Logan Braunschweig, LHB
Owen Carey, LHB
Isaiah Drake, LHB
Eric Hartman, LHB
Dalton McIntyre, LHB
Jake Steels, RHB
Much like the infield, the outfield is one of the most intriguing position groups in the organization as the potential starting outfield of Eric Hartman – Isaiah Drake – Owen Carey has some of the highest upside amongst all position players. Add 9th round draft pick Logan Braunschweig to the group, along with tools-y Dalton McIntyre and Jake Steels.
An NHL rarity could happen on Thursday, April 2: The Buffalo Sabres could clinch a playoff berth and end a league-record 14-year postseason drought.
All the Sabres need to do is beat the Ottawa Senators and they’re in the playoffs for the first time since 2010-11, although there are other ways to clinch.
Buffalo was in last place in the Eastern Conference on Dec. 9 before winning two in a row to get back to .500.
The team took off, extending their winning streak to 10 games. They have gone 32-7-4 under the former Columbus Blue Jackets GM heading into Thursday’s game.
The Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning and Minnesota Wild also are in position to clinch on Thursday. In the late game, the Nashville Predators visit the Los Angeles Kings, who passed them on Wednesday and moved into the second wild-card spot in the West.
Here's what to know about the NHL standings, including the latest playoff bracket, who can clinch today and the tiebreaker procedures for the 2025-26 season:
Who's in the 2026 NHL playoffs?
Eastern Conference: None
Western Conference: Colorado, Dallas
Who can clinch today?
The Buffalo Sabres will clinch a playoff berth if they beat the Ottawa Senators. They'd also clinch if they get one point and the Red Wings and Blue Jackets lose.
The Carolina Hurricanes will clinch if they beat the Blue Jackets. They'd also clinch if they get one point and the Red Wings lose, plus the Senators lose in regulation.
The Tampa Bay Lightning will clinch if they beat the Penguins in regulation and all of the following occur: the Senators lose and the Red Wings and Blue Jackets lose in regulation. They would also clinch if they beat the Penguins in overtime or a shootout and the Red Wings, Blue Jackets and Senators lose in regulation.
The Minnesota Wild will clinch if they get at least one point against the Canucks. They would also clinch if they get one point and 1) the Sharks lose and the Oilers and Golden Knights lose in regulation or 2) the Sharks lose in regulation or 3) the Kings fail to win in regulation.
NHL games today (Thursday, April 2)
All times p.m. Eastern
Buffalo at Ottawa, 7
Pittsburgh at Tampa Bay, 7
Boston at Florida, 7
Montreal at N.Y. Rangers, 7
Detroit at Philadelphia, 7
Columbus at Carolina, 7
Washington at New Jersey, 7:30
Winnipeg at Dallas, 8
Vancouver at Minnesota, 8
Chicago at Edmonton, 9
Calgary at Vegas, 10
Toronto at San Jose, 10
Utah at Seattle, 10
Nashville at Los Angeles, 10:30
NHL Eastern Conference standings 2025-26
After April 1 games. x-clinched playoff spot. z-eliminated
Metropolitan Division
Carolina Hurricanes (100)
Pittsburgh Penguins (92)
New York Islanders (89)
Atlantic Division
Buffalo Sabres (100)
Tampa Bay Lightning (98)
Montreal Canadiens (96)
Wild card
Boston Bruins (94)
Columbus Blue Jackets (88)
Sitting out of playoff position: Ottawa Senators (86), Detroit Red Wings (86), Philadelphia Flyers (86), Washington Capitals (85), New Jersey Devils (78), Toronto Maple Leafs (77), Florida Panthers (75), z-New York Rangers (71)
NHL Western Conference standings 2025-26
After April 1 games. x-clinched playoff spot. z-eliminated
Central Division
x-Colorado Avalanche (108)
x-Dallas Stars (100)
Minnesota Wild (94)
Pacific Division
Anaheim Ducks (87)
Edmonton Oilers (85)
Vegas Golden Knights (82)
Wild card
Utah Mammoth (82)
Los Angeles Kings (78)
Sitting out of playoff position: San Jose Sharks (77), Nashville Predators (77), Winnipeg Jets (76), Seattle Kraken (75), St. Louis Blues (74), Calgary Flames (70), Chicago Blackhawks (68), z-Vancouver Canucks (52)
NHL Eastern Conference playoff bracket
Here is how the Eastern Conference playoff bracket would look if the season ended on April 1:
Carolina (M1) vs. Columbus (WC2)
Pittsburgh (M2) vs. N.Y. Islanders (M3)
Buffalo (A1) vs. Boston (WC1)
Tampa Bay (A2) vs. Montreal (A3)
The winner of the first series would play the winner of the second in the second round. The winner of the third series would play the winner of the fourth. Key: M - Metropolitan Division. A - Atlantic Division. WC - wild card
NHL Western Conference playoff bracket
Here is how the Western Conference playoff bracket would look if the season ended on March 31.
Colorado (C1) vs. Los Angeles (WC2)
Dallas (C2) vs. Minnesota (C3)
Anaheim (P1) vs. Utah (WC1)
Edmonton (P2) vs. Vegas (P3)
The winner of the first series would play the winner of the second in the second round. The winner of the third series would play the winner of the fourth. Key: C - Central Division P - Pacific Division. WC - wild card
NHL tiebreakers: What is the first tiebreaker in NHL standings?
If two teams are tied in points at the end of the regular season, here are the tiebreakers:
Regulation wins
Regulation and overtime wins (ROW)
Total wins
Most points earned in head-to-head competition: If teams had an uneven number of meetings, the first game played in the city that has the extra game is excluded.
Goal differential
Total goals
When does the NHL regular season end?
The NHL regular season is scheduled to end on Thursday, April 16, with six games.
When do the NHL playoffs start?
The NHL's Stanley Cup playoffs are scheduled to begin on April 18.
Draymond Green‘s future with the Golden State Warriors has been in question ever since Jimmy Butler‘s torn ACL in January. After Butler’s injury, Green was involved in NBA trade rumors as the Warriors pursued Giannis Antetokounmpo, but he wasn’t moved. Now, a new report has emerged on the forward’s future in Golden State.
Green is expected to opt-in to his player option or work out a multi-year contract extension with the Warriors this offseason, as reported by ESPN’s Anthony Slater. The four-time NBA champion’s extension would start at a lower number, signaling that he prefers to finish his career with Golden State instead of testing the market.
During the 2026 NBA trade deadline, Green was involved in trade packages that could sent him to the Los Angeles Lakers or Los Angeles Clippers. The 36-year-old forward has been with the Warriors since he was drafted in the second round of the 2012 NBA Draft almost 14 years ago.
Green’s production has dropped over the last few years. During the 2025-26 NBA season, Green is averaging 8.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists through 63 games. Green has been the main veteran presence for the Warriors over the last few months with Butler out for the season and Stephen Curry sitting with an injury.
Despite the drop in offensive production, Green has been strong on defense. There is still a possibility that Green makes an All-Defense team for the 10th time, joining Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, Scottie Pippen, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Kevin Garnett as the only ones to accomplish this goal.
Green is nearing the end of his NBA career, and while rumors swirl over his future, the expectation is that he will stay with the Warriors.
The Lions will be the main course, and Michigan State will be the dessert.
Michigan State men's basketball will play a marquee nonconference men's basketball game against Arkansas at Little Caesars Arena on Thanksgiving night, Nov. 26.
The Lions will play during the day at Ford Field, per usual, for a 1 p.m. kickoff against an opponent to be announced next month, when the NFL does its schedule reveal.
Then, Michigan State and Arkansas will play shortly thereafter, with a tip expected to around 5 p.m. Both games will be on national television; the Lions on CBS and Michigan State-Arkansas on a network TBD.
That would put Detroit in the national spotlight on a holiday for the better part of six hours.
Michigan State had discussions with multiple possible opponents for the game at LCA, but in the end, worked out a deal (still to be signed) with Arkansas and head coach John Calipari, pitting two members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame against each other.
The coaches are 3-3 against each other, with Michigan State beating Arkansas, 69-66, at Breslin Center in November in a game that was originally scheduled to be the first game of a home-and-home series.
Calipari are second and 11th among active wins leaders among college basketball coaches, with 863 and 764, respectively. Izzo has gotten all of his at Michigan State; Calipari has previously been at UMass, Memphis and Kentucky.
Officials from Little Caesars Arena and 313 Presents haven't officially announced the basketball game between Michigan State and Arkansas, so ticket details remain TBD.
The game will serve as a college basketball showcase in downtown Detroit ahead of the Final Four, which will be at Ford Field in 2027. In 2009, the last time the Final Four was in Detroit, Michigan State played North Carolina in a game at Ford Field in December (won by North Carolina, 98-63), before they met again in that season's national-championship game (also won by North Carolina, 89-72).
Michigan State was a No. 3 seed in this year's NCAA Tournament, losing to Connecticut in the Sweet 16. Arkansas, led by Detroit's Darius Acuff Jr., was a No. 4 seed, losing to Arizona in the Sweet 16. UConn (Illinois) and Arizona (Michigan) are in the Final Four.
April has arrived! The NFL Draft is less than a month away, and with it, fantasy football drafts will be on the horizon. Whether you’re prepping to draft rookies in a dynasty league or shooting for the stars in August drafts, this story is a great place to start.
One stat for rookie WRs is all we need here to avoid lower upside players and increase our odds of finding the next star: Target Share.
The parameters we’re working with:
Since 2021
Power-5 WRs Only
Round 1-3 selections
Removing the extreme college slot WRs
Adjusted Target Share: +2% for each Round 1-3 WR in the player’s college WR room
Players with higher target shares in college often possess a more well-rounded game. They are not one-dimensional gadget WRs or outside jump-ball specialists. Players with lower target shares in college won’t always be NFL busts, but (way) more often than not, they will at minimum be limited to becoming role players rather than 8+ target/game stars.
College target share importance since 2021. (Photo by Joel Smyth/Yahoo Sports)
You want your WR above the 25% mark. The late-round WRs get a little more hope, and the first-rounders have an incredible hit rate.
Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State Sun Devils
The highest among these prospects by a considerable margin is Arizona State wideout Jordyn Tyson. At 33%, he is below only Drake London, Malik Nabers and DeVonta Smith, all of whom have produced a top-15 fantasy season early in their careers. Tyson’s target share could be even higher, as it was over 35% before his final two games when he was limited by injuries.
That’s the key for Tyson. He’s as talented as any player in this class, but his hamstring injury is extremely serious. If he can stay healthy in Year 1 and beyond, he has a great shot of being a target hog in the league.
Denzel Boston, Washington Huskies
The most consistent critique I’ve seen around Denzel Boston is the lack of separation in his game. This data would fight against that. Even as a 6’4” X-receiver, Boston was well above the 25% line, nearly the exact same as former Washington WR Rome Odunze (who was positively adjusted for playing with Jalen McMillan and Ja’Lynn Polk). Although he has his flaws, Boston was able to avoid contested catches more often than one would think.
Career percentage of targets that were contested AND percentage of contested targets that were caught.
Example: 28% of Elijah Sarratt's career targets were contested (not great!), but he caught 57% of his contested targets (pretty great!) pic.twitter.com/I96f65BolU
Although high target shares are a positive sign, the more important signal here is the negative one. Players with high draft capital and low target shares have a HORRIBLE track record in recent years. Below is the Jump Scare Box.
Highly-drafted receivers with low target shares. (Photo by Joel Smyth/Yahoo Sports)
Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana Hoosiers
The main prospect I’m worried about is Omar Cooper Jr. He could carve out a nice role in the NFL as a playmaking YAC WR, but the odds of him becoming a dominant fantasy WR look slim. Just look at the other names in the box above: Jonathan Mingo, Xavier Legette, Kadarius Toney, Keon Coleman, Quentin Johnston, Ja’Lynn Polk, etc. Brian Thomas Jr. is what you would hope for, and even that now looks iffy.
The best outlook is Luther Burden III; however, he posted an extremely high target share the year prior at 33%! A poor final year with bad circumstances is the only one shown above. Cooper was out-targeted by teammate Elijah Sarratt, and in games with Sarratt healthy, Cooper’s target share was even lower than the number shown on the graph. He will need a creative playcaller and a unique opportunity to fully capitalize on his skill set in the NFL.
Carnell Tate, Ohio State Buckeyes
This isn’t the end for Carnell Tate but rather an obstacle. He is positively adjusted for having Jeremiah Smith alongside him (although one could argue that 2% is not enough for Smith of an adjustment), yet he only sits at a 22% target share in his final year. Compared to the other five Round 1 Buckeye receivers on this graph, he’s the only one lower than 26%. Tate is likely to be a top-10 pick, which would be a rarity for the college volume he saw.
He’s only 21 years old, incredible on contested catches and is built to be an outside NFL receiver. Will he be the next year-in, year-out fantasy WR1? That’s my concern. I’d say the more likely positive outcome would be Tee Higgins, one of the best WR2s in fantasy (and in the NFL) — unlikely to see 150+ targets yet could thrive with 10-TD seasons.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have a lot of players to be excited about in 2026: Trevor Lawrence, Travis Hunter, Ventrell Miller, Chris Rodriguez, just to name a few. But head coach Liam Coen's pick for the player he's most excited to see next season might be a bit of a surprise.
During annual league meetings in Phoenix, Coen mentioned safety Caleb Ransaw as an exciting prospect for him. Ransaw was taken in the 2025 NFL draft in the third round, after Travis Hunter and Coen clearly had a hand in taking him.
"I was very much a fan of Caleb when we drafted him," Coen said. "My relationship with Jon Sumrall was a huge part of that, obviously, and how much he liked Caleb."
Sumrall coached Ransaw at Tulane in 2024, when Ransaw had a major breakout season. He was a productive and versatile player who clearly made a big impression on Coen. But unfortunately, his rookie career was over before it was even able to get started, due to a foot injury during training camp that needed surgery.
So far, Coen said he's recovering well.
"He's been working out a ton with strength and conditioning, with athletic training," he said of Ransaw. "I haven't been able to see him, but they say he looks good.He's running around pain-free and really moving around well. He's gotten stronger."
He then pointed to Ransaw as someone he's excited to see in 2026.
"It's a nice thing where you've got Antonio Johnson who ascended towards the end of season, Eric Murray coming back, Rayuan Lane another year and then you're like, well, shoot, Caleb," he said. "Who knows what that could look like? We're just excited to see what it could be."
Safety is a solid position for Jacksonville headed into 2026, and while Ransaw likely won't take any snaps away from Johnson or Murray, the Jaguars are clearly excited to see what he is capable of. Anthony Campanile used a lot of three-safety schemes last season, so the third slot could be his if he impresses in training camp this summer.
A report from Peterborough claims Arsenal are at the head of the queue for Manny Fernandez, with Rangers responding by placing a hefty price on the defender.
Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images
Arsenal are reported to be leading the chase for Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Fernandez, the 24-year-old Rangers defender whose rise since leaving Peterborough has now apparently placed him on the radar of clubs in England and Germany.
According to the Peterborough Evening Telegraph, Arsenal are at the front of a group of interested sides that also includes Everton, Chelsea, West Ham United, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund.
The report says Rangers have responded by placing a £35m valuation on the defender, a figure that would set a new record for a Scottish sale.
Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images
That would represent a huge fee for a player who joined Rangers from Peterborough for £3.5m last summer and is still only valued at €9m, but it would reflect the length of his current contract, which runs until 2029.
Peterborough are said to hold a considerable sell-on clause, which would leave them well placed to benefit from any major move, especially as he is now a full Nigeria international.
Fernandez has scored six goals from his position as centreback in 27 appearances this season. He can play of the left or right and can also turn his hand at right-back.
But despite their concerns, the Lilywhites confirmed the Italian’s appointment on Tuesday.
De Zerbi has now issued an apology in his first interview as Tottenham boss: “I’m sorry if this offended anyone and their feelings with this subject matter – I have a daughter and I’m very sensitive to these things, and I always have been. I hope that over time people will get to know me better and will understand that at that moment I didn’t mean to take a stance.”
Tottenham are in serious danger of suffering relegation to the Championship after the disastrous run of results under Tudor.
They picked up just one point from the Croatian’s seven league matches in charge.
The Black Cats will be in a buoyant mood following their huge victory against bitter rivals Newcastle United in their last game before the international break.
Alexander Isak mess will cost Liverpool £100m superstar
Liverpool created a mess in the summer by signing Alexander Isak. It's one that could now cost them.
The Alexander Isak pursuit in 2025 was awful. Liverpool were never really in control of it and things managed to drag along the entire transfer window.
One effect that had was annoying Newcastle United, who became increasingly aggravated with Liverpool's pursuit and the constant media pressure to sell. Whether you think the Reds were right or wrong with it all, the fact is it left a negative impression on Newcastle.
It's something that may come back to bite them, too. The Telegraph reports that Newcastle will essentially have a fire sale this summer as they try to meet UEFA financial rules - and it could mean moving on a £100m player.
Liverpool will likely be in the mix for someone like Anthony Gordon. However, Newcastle will be very uninclined to sell to them. Not after the mess of last year.
The club did land Isak in the end, so it's difficult to be too negative on it all. But it has potentially taken away an easy win this summer - if Newcastle indeed hold a grudge.
Alexander Isak: Situation Summary
Liverpool Form and Injury Status
Alexander Isak is currently in the final stages of recovery from a fractured fibula sustained against Tottenham in December 2025. His debut season at Liverpool, following a high-profile £125 million move from Newcastle, has been heavily disrupted by fitness issues. As of April 1, 2026, the 26-year-old Swedish striker has been limited to just 16 appearances across all competitions, contributing three goals and one assist. While he will miss the upcoming FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City, manager Arne Slot has targeted the Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain later this month for his competitive return to the squad.
Transfer Speculation and Future
Despite his limited game time, rumours have surfaced regarding Isak’s future at Anfield ahead of the summer 2026 window. Reports suggest his representatives have explored interest from Barcelona, as the striker allegedly feels their tactical setup may better suit his style of play. While Liverpool officially remains committed to Isak as a long-term successor in their attack, the club is reportedly monitoring other goalscorers as a contingency plan depending on how the Swede recovers from his long-term leg injury. His high price tag and difficult debut campaign have placed significant pressure on his upcoming return to action.
Tensions briefly boiled over for the San Francisco Giants during their matchup against the San Diego Padres, as veteran third baseman Matt Chapman was seen visibly frustrated with teammate Casey Schmitt following a defensive miscue. The moment came after Schmitt dropped what appeared to be a routine throw across the diamond, extending the inning and putting additional pressure on the Giants’ defense.
A Costly Mistake
The play itself was one the Giants would expect to make nearly every time. Chapman fielded the ball cleanly at third and delivered a solid throw to first, but Schmitt was unable to secure it, allowing the runner to reach safely. What should have been a routine out instead turned into a prolonged inning for San Francisco.
Defensive lapses like that can quickly shift momentum, especially against a lineup as dangerous as San Diego’s.
Apr 1, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Francisco Giants third baseman Matt Chapman (26) throws to first base but can’t get the out on San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts (2) during the fifth inning at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
Cameras caught Chapman reacting immediately after the play, appearing to direct frustration toward Schmitt.
While emotions run high in competitive situations, the visible reaction stood out. Chapman, known for his intensity and high defensive standards, clearly expected the play to be completed.
Moments like this aren’t uncommon in baseball, particularly when mistakes come in critical situations—but they can still draw attention when they play out publicly.
Competitive Fire or Cause for Concern?
There are two ways to view the interaction. On one hand, it reflects Chapman’s competitive nature and desire for clean, disciplined play. Veteran players often hold themselves and their teammates to a high standard, especially on defense.
On the other hand, public displays of frustration can sometimes create tension within a clubhouse if not handled properly.
Moving Forward
Mar 30, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Francisco Giants first baseman Casey Schmitt (10) gestures after hitting a double during the seventh inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
For the Giants, the key will be how the team responds internally. Mistakes happen over the course of a long Major League Baseball season, and maintaining strong communication and chemistry is critical to overcoming them.
If anything, the moment could serve as a reminder of the expectations within the organization—while also reinforcing the importance of keeping frustrations in check.
In the end, it was just one play in a long season—but it offered a glimpse into the intensity and pressure that come with competing at the highest level.
Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma put on 82 for the first wicket in just 5.4 overs and even though Australia's Head fell for 46 and India opener Abhishek 48, the visitors still posted 226-8 with South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen adding 52 from 35 balls.
Gloucestershire left-armer David Payne conceded 25 from the first over of the chase as New Zealand opener Finn Allen flogged three fours and two sixes but the innings soon fell away.
Allen chipped a catch back to spinner Harsh Dubey for 28, Angkrish Raghuvanshi was run out for 52 and Australian Cameron Green also run out for two.
Left-armer Jaydev Unadkat took 3-21, including the final wicket as KKR, who have lost their first two games, were bowled out for 161 in 16.1 overs.
The win was also the first not won by the chasing side in this year's IPL.
ALCALA DE HENARES, SPAIN - MARCH 31: Gonzalo Garcia of Spain U21 celebrates a goal during the UEFA EURO U-21 qualification, Group A, football match played between Spain U21 and Kosovo U21 at Centro Deportivo Wanda Alcala de Henares stadium on March 31, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images
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The Patriots' voting panel, which consists of journalists and longtime franchise contributors, will pick between eight former players: fullback Mosi Tatupu, wide receiver Wes Welker, tight end Rob Gronkowski, offensive lineman Logan Mankins, defensive lineman Julius Adams, linebacker Dont’a Hightower, safety Lawyer Milloy and kicker Adam Vinatieri. If a player receives the requisite number of votes, he will be made one of three finalists that will be voted upon amongst fans -- with the player who receives the most votes ultimately earning induction.
Gronkowski, 36, is certainly the biggest name listed, as there is an argument to be made that he is not only the greatest tight end of his generation but the greatest tight end of all-time. The Patriots signed the four-time Super Bowl champion to a one-day contract to allow him to retire a member of the franchise on Nov. 12, 2025.
Gronkowski, who finished with 602 receptions, 9,024 receiving yards, and 91 touchdowns across 131 games with the organization, was named a Pro Bowler on five separate occasions and an All-Pro on four separate occasions -- all of which were during his time in New England.
Hightower is the only other player to make the list in his first year of eligibility. Welker, Mankins, Adams, Milloy, and Vinatieri have previously been finalists, with the latter recently earning his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2026. Tatupu is the lone player on the ballot to retire before the turn of the century.
ESPN's Mike Reiss not only shared a snapshot of who is voting on the three finalists, but how the process will change in 2027 on Wednesday.
1. I know Rangers fans who love John Tortorella more than any Blueshirt coach before or since. (Well, what do you think of that? The Dear Boy is back in the saddle again; now in Vegas. All he has to do is get the loaded Knights into the playoffs!
2. Owners panic when their teams are sitting on the playoff fence. That's the simple story in Vegas and the natural thing to do since Torts is the best available fire extinguisher is to hire him.
3. In Toronto and New York it's different. Rangers' owner James Dolan swore allegiance to Chris Drury and is not likely to change his mind. I say that because Dolan allowed Drury to go public with his "Retool" scheme which is funnier than April First!
4. With that in mind, you have to believe that no change will take place with New York's general staff. Toronto is another story since no promises have been made. But if it was up to The Maven, I'd hire Rangers' 1994 Cup architect Neil Smith, the Toronto native, as Leafs' new hockey boss.
5. Back to the Rangers, Maven Roundtabler, David Perlmutter offers this: "Drury does not have the assets to trade for better players."
6. More From Dave: "Drury should collect as many prospects as he can. If ten percent of the prospects work out, he'll be en route to icing a decent team."
7. Meanwhile, the large number of empty MSG seats tell the story; only the diehards are showing up and a good chunk of them got the ducats from subscribers who want no part of season-ending exhibitions; which really is all they amount to in this very ersatz Centennial Year.
8. On "Third Thought," The Maven would have given the McDonald (Hard Tryer) Award t to the REAL hustler – upside-down-sideways, Dancin' Larry. He works harder in ten minutes than Non-Dancing Z in ten games!
9. Then again, gotta think again re The Dancer. He hasn't gyrated the Rangers into the playoffs in two years!
10. Just wondering; Does Danin' Larry have a "No-Trade" clause?
Could the Dallas Mavericks go back-to-back with star Duke prospects in the NBA Draft? A new rumor seemingly opens the door to that possibility.
After breaking their fans’ hearts last February by trading the face of the franchise, Luka Doncic, the Mavericks got very lucky when the disastrous finish to their 2024-25 season landed them in the NBA Draft, and then the No. 1 overall pick.
Their luck came at the perfect time because one of the most hyped prospects of the decade, Cooper Flagg, was up for grabs last June. Fortunately for Dallas, the 19-year-old has lived up to expectations as he leads the team in scoring (20.3) and steals (1.2), while also posting 6.6 boards and 4.5 assists a night. Yet, his impressive play during his rookie season has not stopped the Mavs from again being a lottery team this year.
While the official draft order has not yet been set, the Mavericks are likely to land anywhere from the fourth to the ninth pick in Round 1. They have been linked to various players in early mock drafts, including Arkansas point guard Darius Acuff, Jr. However, the door now seems open to bringing in another Duke star this year.
Could Cam Boozer drop to the Mavericks in Round 1 of NBA Draft?
Amber Searls-Imagn Images
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, “Questions persist within the scouting community about how Cameron Boozer’s game will translate to the next level… NBA personnel inevitably wonder if he’ll be able to replicate [his previous success] in the pros.”
Following a great freshman season for the Blue Devils and nearly carrying them to the Final Four this month, many basketball pundits feel Boozer can be a top-three pick in the NBA Draft. However, this report suggests the concerns of scouts could see the forward drop lower than expected. Setting up the opportunity for Dallas to select him if they land a pick outside the top three to five.
After trading Anthony Davis before the trade deadline, and with Kyrie Irving set to return next season, the Mavericks could use more help either at the swingman spot or in the front court. Boozer and skilled rebounder and rim protector, Daniel Gafford could be a formidable front-court duo with Flagg and Irving in the backcourt.
A lifelong Tar Heel fan who grew up in Goldsboro, Young transferred in from Virginia Tech last offseason. Young originally committed to High Point University, a mid-major program which made history in the NCAA Tournament, but switched to don the Carolina Blue.
Young didn't play much in non-conference action, totaling double-digits just three times in games, but delivered with 12 points in North Carolina's 87-84 win over Wake Forest. Hubert Davis gave Young a couple starting opportunities, but his production never replicated that crucial ACC victory.
Young will be a senior next season – and he has a tough choice to make. Does Young stay in Chapel Hill, living out his final season of college basketball with the team he grew up cheering for, while earning his college degree?
Or, does Young transfer to a smaller school like High Point, where he'll be a Day One starter and a top option? If professional basketball is in Young's future, HPU – or any mid-major school – may be the move.
UNC won't have Seth Trimble in its 2026-27 backcourt, while Kyan Evans likely transfers due to his playing time dwindling. Maximo Adams and Dylan Mingo will come to Chapel Hill and reinforce the Tar Heels, but there's still plenty of spots to be filled.
Let's re-visit Young's junior season below, while trying to predict what he does for his senior campaign.
2025-26 stats: 1.8 points, 0.9 rebounds, 0.4 assists per game, 30 percent field goal shooting in 31 games (4 starts)
Jaydon Young season in review
Deep on the Tar Heels' bench, Young proved he could deliver quick scoring in limited action. Young enjoyed a couple big moments during his junior season at UNC, none larger than a season-high 12 points in a 3-point win over Wake Forest.
Young started four games for North Carolina, proving himself as a solid free throw shooter with a 75 percent mark from the charity stripe. The Tar Heels gave Young decent playing time, with double-digit minutes reached in six ACC games.
What's next?
Young has one season of eligibility left – and he's a lifelong UNC fan. If Young wants to live out his dream, he'll stay in Chapel Hill this fall.
If extended playing time is Young's preference, he'll look to a mid-major school. It's difficult to imagine Young leaving Chapel Hill, though, especially with Trimble possibly Evans departing the backcourt.
With eight games left the Ekstraklasa, the Polish league, remains the most intriguing and exciting in the whole of Europe.
The table is so tight that the title race and the fight to survive relegation looks like going to the wire, with teams battling for Europe still also looking over their shoulder at the relegation zone.
Just 15 points separate leaders Lech Poznan (44 points) from 17th-placed Widzew Lodz (29), who are one place off the bottom and in the drop zone with three teams facing relegation.
Motor Lublin sum it up: seventh place, seven points off the top, but also just seven above relegation.
Even beyond the league, the wonderful chaos remains - this season's Polish Cup quarter-finals featured sides from the third and fourth tiers.
How did this extraordinary competitiveness happen? Is there anything to learn for other leagues out of the top six in Europe, with financial difficulties to compete?
While Poland's national team missed out on World Cup qualification with defeat by Sweden in Tuesday's play-offs, Guillem Balague looks at why their domestic football scene is flourishing again and whether it can last long term.
'They stopped being ashamed of the level of football'
Poland has been described as Europe's "growth champion". Its economy is now the 20th largest in the world, with an annual output of more than $1tn (£751bn).
The progress in its footballing ambition has grown commensurately alongside this economic boom.
Poland as a footballing nation has been much more successful in the past but, after some recent dark times, there are real signs of hope again for their domestic league.
Michal Kolodziejczyk, head of sports for Canal+, the broadcaster and main sponsor of the Ekstraklasa, said: "Polish football was great in the seventies and eighties.
"Our fathers remember Poland as the third team in the world in 1974 and 1982. In the communist era, players couldn't go abroad to play.
"A great national team was built. In 1970, Legia Warsaw were in the semi-finals of the European Cup, losing to Feyenoord, and Gornik Zabrze were in the final of the Cup Winners' Cup.
"That era still weighs a lot. We would like to see our teams in the semi-finals of the European Cup again."
That may well still seem a step too far but in the 2022–23 season, while competing in the Uefa Conference League, Lech Poznan reached their first ever European quarter-final - where they were eliminated by Italian club Fiorentina. Other Polish clubs have since reached the knockout stages of Europe's third competition.
Polish football commentator Maciej Iwanski said: "That is when people started to realise that this is actually a proper league.
"The attendances started to rise very significantly season after season and people started to seriously follow their teams. They stopped being ashamed of the level of the football."
A huge growth in popularity
The average attendance at a Polish top league game this season was 13,674, which is 1,000 up from last season, and 4,500 more than what it was a decade ago. It is in its best state for the past 30 years.
The majority of Polish fans now support Polish clubs in Europe, irrespective of the club they follow domestically - as more income from European competitions benefits everyone.
Marcin Animucki, president of Ekstraklasa, said: "It all started with the foundation of Ekstraklasa as a professional entity, but the very big boost came after co-hosting Euro 2012. We have more than 25 new modern stadiums after that investment.
"When I joined the organisation, there were only one and a half million people coming to stadiums. Now it's more than four million, we are number eight in Europe according to fan attendance."
The fact that clubs are now privately run as opposed to being controlled by government institutions has also had a profound effect.
With more investment, better players are coming through the academies. The wages are high compared to neighbouring countries, apart from Germany.
The current deal with Canal+ is worth about £67m a year, small fry in comparison to the bigger leagues and about half what the Dutch league brings in. But it was a record four-year deal for the league when it was struck in 2023.
The Polish league has recently moved up from 18th to 12th in Uefa's coefficient standings, which means they will be entitled to five clubs in European competition next season.
Bizarrely equal - but is it a good thing?
The result of it all has been a bizarrely equal league.
The Ekstraklasa has had three new winners in the past decade, and five different winners in the past seven years.
Zaglebie, the league leaders until recently, are from tiny Lubin, whose 70,000 inhabitants ranks it outside the top 50 largest cities in Poland by population. They finished 15th last season, just one place above the relegation zone.
Legia Warsaw, the nation's biggest and most successful club, are only just above the relegation zone. Last season, they reached the Conference League quarter-final stage.
This season, big-spending Widzew Lodz have signed the three most expensive players in Ekstraklasa history, according to Transfermarkt, including Ghana international Osman Bukari from Austin FC for a reported £4.8m. They are currently in the bottom three.
Is the Ekstraklasa's unpredictability really a good thing though? The head of Canal+ is not entirely convinced, viewing it through the lens of long-term sustainability.
His model is clear: financially stable clubs, selling smartly, developing talent, and regularly reaching at least Europa League quarter-finals within five or six years.
Ultimately, he wants Polish teams in the Champions League group stage as a norm, not a surprise.
That, for him, means backing the best-run clubs - regardless of history - to compete in Europe. "For sure," Kolodziejczyk said. "What's the point of a competitive league if by the end of March we have no teams left in Europe?"
Walker, 30, played nine seasons in the league, joining the Browns in 2021 and serving as a team captain in the 2022-23 seasons. In 2023, Walker was the team’s nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award.
During his three seasons with the Browns, he recorded 170 tackles and recovered two fumbles. More importantly, he was regarded as an integral leader on the field as well as off.
He joined the Browns after four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. He signed three one-year deals in Cleveland. After he left the Browns, Walker spent the past two seasons with the Miami Dolphins (2024) and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2025).
In nine seasons in 101 games (83 starts), he recorded 581 tackles, forced two fumbles and recovered four and had four interceptions.
George M. Thomas covers a myriad of things including sports and pop culture, but mostly sports, he thinks, for the Beacon Journal.
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Lakers computer picks
LeBron James Over 17.5 points (-105)
Projection: 19.2 points
LeBron James isn't the elite scorer he once was, but "The King" can still fill the hoop.
With Luka Doncic likely the Oklahoma City Thunder's primary target, Bron will be able to go to work on their secondary defenders.
We don't need a 30-piece from James to cash this — just a measly 18 points from the greatest scorer of all time.
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Jake LaRavia Over 6.5 points (-112)
Projection: 8.2 points
Jake LaRavia is fresh off a 14-point game, playing a monstrous 38 minutes.
LaRavia has earned the trust of Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick, and if he sees another 30+ minutes, he can make this line of 6.5 look foolish.
With Bron, Luka, and Austin Reaves sharing the floor, it gives LaRavia three capable playmakers to set him up for easy looks. He just needs to knock 'em down.
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Rui Hachimura Over 2.5 rebounds (+100)
Projection: 3.1 rebounds
Rui Hachimura has cleared this rebounding total in five of his last 10, and we're getting plus money on it at bet365. Rui will likely see time off the bench, with most of his minutes away from Isaiah Hartenstein and/or Chet.
OKC's No. 1 defense will also lead to more rebounding opportunities, and Rui will see enough floor time to gobble up at least three boards.
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Thunder computer picks
Luguentz Dort Over 2.5 rebounds (+122)
Projection: 2.9 rebounds
At +122, this play is too good to pass up.
Lu Dort has snared three or more boards in five of his last 10, and as I mentioned earlier, there will be plenty of rebounding opportunities up for grabs.
Dort is a physical player and isn't afraid to get down and dirty in the paint.
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Ajay Mitchell Under 12.5 points (-115)
Projection: 12.1 points
Ajay Mitchell has been inconsistent over his last five games, failing to reach double-digit points twice.
This game is also expected to see fewer possessions than normal, with the Lakers slowing things down lately.
The Thunder will only get so many shots, and SGA, alongside Chet and Hart, will offer better success given how Los Angeles is built.
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Isaiah Hartenstein Over 7.5 points (-120)
Projection: 8.8 points
Starting centers have been feasting on the Lakers, with the last eight big men all eclipsing 10+ points.
That run includes centers like Jay Huff, Nic Claxton, and Tristan Vukcevic...
Hart will be able to bully L.A. down low and get easy buckets, helping him cover this line.
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How to watch Lakers vs Thunder tonight
Location
Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Date
Thursday, April 2, 2026
Tip-off
9:30 p.m. ET
TV
Prime Video
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Ademola Lookman scored against Barcelona when the two teams met at the Metropolitano in the Copa del Rey.
NurPhoto via Getty Images
Soccer rarely hands up a fixture sequence quite like the one Atlético Madrid faces this week. Barcelona arrive at the Estadio Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Saturday in La Liga. Four days later, the two clubs meet again at Camp Nou in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, with the second leg back in Madrid on April 14. Three games, three weeks, one opponent.
These are the same two clubs who contested the Copa del Rey semi-final less than two months ago, a tie Atlético won 4-3 on aggregate, and now meet across three different competitions inside just two weeks.
Standing at the centre of it all is Ademola Lookman. “It’s a special game against another tough opponent,” Lookman said, speaking to a roundtable of journalists arranged by LALIGA. “We need to be ready for that and prepare in the right way,” he said of Barcelona. “The next game is at the weekend, and we take every match as it comes, game by game.”
That measured tone has become something of a trademark. Lookman does not do hyperbole in press settings. What he does instead, and what matters more, is produce on the biggest stages, against the most demanding opposition, at the moments when the tie is alive.
An arrival that has sparked Atlético’s season
Lookman only joined Atlético Madrid at the end of the winter transfer window on a permanent deal on a contract to 2030. In his first six games, he scored four goals and added two assists, becoming the first player in the squad to score in the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey inside that opening run.
Since his arrival, he has accumulated two La Liga goals in seven appearances, alongside two goals and two assists in three games in the Copa del Rey, booking Atleti a place in the final for the first time since 2013, and a goal and an assist in the Champions League.
The numbers are one thing. The manner of the contributions is another. In the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Barcelona, Lookman scored and assisted in a ruthless first-half display that left the reigning cup holders stunned. He finished a flowing move in the 33rd minute to make it 3-0, then turned provider, setting up Julián Álvarez for the fourth just before half-time. The third goal came from a Giuliano Simeone cross to Álvarez, who squared for an unmarked Lookman to fire into the bottom corner; the fourth was Lookman sliding a pass into the middle for Álvarez to finish from just inside the box.
It was, across 45 minutes, the best performance of his time at the club. It probably will not stay that way for long.
Diego Simeone’s impact on Lookman
The more interesting question about Lookman’s Atlético career is not what he has brought to the club, but what the club is bringing to him. He arrived as the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, the man who scored a hat-trick in the Europa League final against Xabi Alonso’s unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen side, a player at the peak of his powers. His new coach Diego Simeone does not regard that as a ceiling.
“He’s very intense and very demanding,” Lookman said of his coach, “which is always good to have a manager like this, because you want to push as much as you can every single day”.
The specific area of development Lookman identifies is the one Simeone is known for demanding from every player in his squad, regardless of position: the defensive side of the game.
“Learning that side of the game is something I’ve always been open to and wanting to improve,” Lookman said, “because that obviously gives me a new capacity as an attacking player and it’s jumped into my game. That part of the game I'm definitely working on and working to improve, because it builds me up overall as a player.”
That is not abstract. In the second leg against Tottenham in London, Lookman spent much of the game tracking back inside Simeone’s 4-4-2, still managing one assist, 88% pass accuracy across 37 touches, and three defensive contributions. He was, in other words, both an attacking threat on the counter and a disciplined defensive unit. The balance is not one that came naturally to the player who spent his early career at Everton and Fulham. It is something being built at Atlético.
“I’m 28 now,” Lookman said when asked about his development across a decade in professional soccer. “The experiences I’ve learned, the lessons, the people who’ve helped me along the way have obviously shaped me to be who I am, being disciplined in a way where you let your work speak for itself, the work that goes unseen, you keep doing that, because one day it will pay off”.
A trilogy against Barcelona
Next: Barcelona. The Copa del Rey semi-final gave both clubs detailed intelligence on the other, and that context now applies to three more fixtures instead of one. The 4-0 at the Metropolitano showed what Atlético is capable of on a fast surface, with space to counter and the crowd generating the kind of atmosphere that filled 69,200 seats that February night. The 3-0 second leg at Camp Nou showed what Barcelona do when they need to attack, and also that Atlético are capable of holding a lead even when everything around them is chaos.
Lookman played across both legs. He was withdrawn before the hour at the Camp Nou when the tie was still mathematically alive, Simeone protecting a lead that ultimately held. He was phlegmatic about the split result.
“We won 4-0 at home and the result of the away match was that, and we’re through to the final, so there’s a lot to take away from both games, home and away,” he reflected. “We’ve obviously learned from that and we’re still learning from that. Every occasion you can expect something unexpected, that’s the game.”
He is right, and the unpredictability works both ways. Simeone himself acknowledged after the Tottenham tie that Barcelona are the best attacking team in Europe, saying, “Barcelona is better than us, but it will push us to compete, hopefully, in the best way possible”. That’s not pessimism or defeatism, rather Simeone framing the task in the only terms he ever uses: as something to be ground out, organized around, and won despite the odds.
Lookman’s role in that is not subtle. He is the player most likely to turn a half-chance on the counter into a goal. His pace, movement, and willingness to drive at defenders in transition are the precise attributes that hurt Barcelona’s high defensive line in February. He adapted to Simeone’s tactical demands from his very first weeks at the club , pressing aggressively, thriving on the counter, which meant the Barcelona match arrived at the ideal moment in his Atlético development.
Handling three meetings across two competitions
The La Liga fixture on Saturday, April 4th, complicates matters. It mayy come first chronologically, but it’s the one the Colchoneros are least concerned by. Atlético have effectively conceded the title race, with nine league games remaining and a significant gap to the top two.
Simeone is managing minor injuries to sevral key players, including midfielders Pablo Barrios and Johnny Cardoso, and defender Marc Pubill ahead of the European fixture, and the Champions League quarter-final and Copa del Rey final on April 18 against Real Sociedad are the clear priorities.
That means Saturday’s game against Barcelona in La Liga could see rotation, tactical caution, or both. What it will not see is disinterest. Atlético, particularly under Simeone, do not do disinterest. The fixture is still a Metropolitano derby-equivalent in terms of atmosphere and intensity, and Lookman knows that preparation for a run of games like this leaves no room for shortcuts.
“Recovery, eating right, sleeping right,” he said when asked how he manages the demands of stacking high-pressure fixtures. “Doing everything in your power possible to be at your best. Control what you control. Control your controllables and be at your best.”
Three matches against the same opponent across three competitions inside 13 days. A Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad waiting on the other side. A Champions League semi-final against either Arsenal or Sporting CP possible beyond that, but only for the victor of this Champions League encounter.
Lookman arrived at Atlético two months ago. He has already played elite competition, scoring against both Real Madrid and Barcelona, since his arrival and has come out on the right side of a knock-out tie against the Catalans.
“It’s a special game,” he said, about facing Barcelona in the Champions League. Whether the word special covers what is coming, three times over, probably depends on how the next two weeks end.
This article was originally published on Forbes.com
To three-time major winner Padraig Harrington, it was Bryson DeChambeau’s decision to lay up off the tee at the third hole in the final round of the 2025 Masters.
Speaking to Golfweek, Harrington argued everything changed at Flowering Peach, the 350-yard par 4, at Augusta National. DeChambeau, who began the day two strokes back, had surged into the lead thanks to a double bogey by 54-hole leader Rory McIlroy and a textbook two-putt birdie at the par-5 second.
“It's at least in the conversation,” Harrington said. “Bryson had it won and then he hit an iron off the tee. He was trying to be the cleverest golfer in the field after his previous comments that it was a drivable hole, and he could have hit driver on the edge of the green or on the green, and Rory would have been a broken man standing at that third hole. Bryson hits an iron, he leaves himself one of the toughest second shots in golf. If he hits driver, he asserts his authority.”
Instead, McIlroy opted for driver and made birdie and DeChambeau a three-putt bogey and the lead flipped again. McIlroy agrees with Harrington, calling it the most important moment of the final round.
The third hole is sneaky hard, and it has been a nemesis to DeChambeau over the years, including in 2020 when he couldn’t find his tee shot left in the second round and carded a triple bogey. DeChambeau, the longest driver in golf, took his best club out of the bag. To Harrington, he outsmarted himself and it ended up costing him dearly.
“That was one of the most startling changes of a golfer’s personality and game plan by DeChambeau,” Harrington said. “This is a guy who whacks driver down the tightest of golf holes because that's where his advantage is and on a hole that the stats guys have categorically shown even for a medium hitter, it's a driver. Nobody should be hitting an iron off that tee.”
DeChambeau fell out of contention with more miscues, including another two-shot swing at the fourth where he made bogey, and ballooned to a 3-over 75 and finished T-5, four strokes out of a playoff that gave McIlroy, the winner, the career Grand Slam. But to hear Harrington tell it, DeChambeau cost himself the Green Jacket.
The Carolina Panthers have used their last two first-round draft picks on receiver prospects. In 2024, they traded up to the bottom of Round 1 to grab South Carolina's Xavier Legette, then stayed put at No. 8 overall in 2025 to take Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan.
So far, the two picks couldn't have diverged anymore than they have. While McMillan became the first Panther to win Offensive Rookie of the Year honors since quarterback Cam Newton (2011), Legette has been wildly inconsistent and unproductive—struggling with the basics such as drops and footwork.
If Legette was panning out, perhaps the outlook on their next first-round selection may be different. But for now, according to the latest odds at Draft Kings Sportsbook, Carolina's most-likely choice in Round 1 is yet another wideout.
Here's a look at their odds to pick each position:
Panthers first-round pick odds
Wide receiver: +250
Defensive line/Edge: +260
Tight end: +300
Offensive line: +400
Safety: +550
Cornerback: +850
Linebacker: +2500
Running back: +4500
Quarterback: +4500
Specialist: +25000
The top wide receiver prospect in this class is Ohio State's Carnell Tate, who should be long gone by the time Carolina is on the clock at No. 19 overall. USC's Makai Lemon, Arizona State's Jordyn Tyson, Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr. and Washington's Denzel Boston round out the top five.
It may sound like overkill to go wide receiver again, but the fact is that quarterback Bryce Young has one of the league's worst skill groups to work with. And if he's going to take the next step, the Panthers have to continue investing in those pieces around him—especially with a potential contract extension looming.
Unsurprisingly, head coach Gennaro Gattuso who oversaw the most recent disaster — a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia & Herzegovina after a 1-1 draw — has departed his post in the immediate aftermath of the defeat. Also seeing his way out is Italian federation president Gabriele Gravina who resigned on Thursday to end his eight-year spell in charge of the FIGC.
With Italy now searching for their next head coach to lead them into Euro 2028 and beyond, with an eye on finally returning to the World Cup in 2030, The Sporting News takes a look at who will take over the famed national team.
Next Italy coach candidates to replace Gennaro Gattuso
Here are five candidates who could be in contention to take over the Italy job, with the Azzurri likely to wait for the right candidate to appear before pulling the trigger on their next boss.
Stefano Pioli
The most logical candidate to take over the Italy job is former AC Milan and Fiorentina boss Stefano Pioli.
Currently without a post after being let go by Fiorentina in November, the 60-year-old has managed some of the top clubs in Serie A as well as a stint in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr. It's a wonder that Pioli has not managed Italy yet, having been in charge of Lazio, Inter Milan, AC Milan, and many other Italian sides.
The biggest problem for Italy with Pioli is that most of his recent gigs have ended in failure. After five years in charge of AC Milan, he was let go in May of 2024 after finishing a whopping 19 points behind league winners Inter Milan, having won just one trophy through his time in charge of the club. He then spent one season in charge of Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr before being let go, and his recent stint at Fiorentina was a complete disaster.
Massimiliano Allegri
Another Italian candidate who's somehow never managed the national team before, Massimiliano Allegri, is currently in charge of AC Milan, with the club second in the Serie A table, five points back of Inter with eight matches left to go.
Allegri's career has mostly been with Juventus, who he led across two stints through most of 2014 to 2024, plus five years in charge of Milan across two stints as well. The 58-year-old has won six Serie A titles, five of which came with Juventus through the latter period of that club's dominance.
He has an "old-fashioned" tactical style, but one that is still clearly effective, and he would fit quite well with the national team if he can be lured away from Milan.
Roberto Mancini
With Italy struggling through this period of repeated World Cup disappointment, it would make sense to turn back to the man who brought them their last major trophy, the triumph at Euro 2020. Unfortunately, that also means turning to the man who followed that up with the abysmal and embarrassing World Cup qualifying failure in 2023 where they fell to North Macedonia in the semifinals of the UEFA playoff.
At the end of the day, though, Mancini has far more experience in international football than any other candidate, having led not only Italy but also Saudi Arabia, and he could likely be easily swayed to return as he currently leads Qatari club, Al Sadd.
Fabio Cannavaro
This would be a reach, as the former World Cup-winning captain with Italy is fresh into the managerial world, but depending on how this summer goes, he could be looking to prove his credentials for the job.
After bouncing around the globe between club jobs early in his career, from Al Nassr to Guangzhou Evergrande to Udinese and Dinamo Zagreb, Cannavaro has taken Uzbekistan to its World Cup debut this summer and will be on hand to experience what the Italian national team so craves.
If the 52-year-old manages to prove he can do the job, there would certainly be a push to secure his services for Italy, already having managed China too for a short spell in addition to his current role, giving him ample international experience.
Pep Guardiola
Could it really be? There are rumors that Pep Guardiola wishes to leave Manchester City at the end of the season, even as his current contract runs through the end of next summer. If that comes to pass, it's likely that Guardiola will want to take some time off before returning to the daily grind of club management — if he ever does.
While that could involve simply sitting on his couch for a year or more, that desire could also lend itself to an international position, which involves less day-to-day pressure on a manager. Some prefer the lack of wear and tear, while many end up eyeing a return to the daily struggle. Regardless, a two-year or four-year sabbatical for Guardiola into international football could be enticing, especially if he were the one to return Italy to its former glory.
Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport has offered Guardiola's name up in connection with the job, but this would require a number of things to happen before it can become a realistic possibility.
Azam was dropped on 36 and 69 but struck six fours and six sixes, meaning only 10 runs were needed by the time he was dismissed in the penultimate over.
The right-hander shared a partnership of 76 with Australian David Warner, who made 50 from 36 balls.
Kings completed their chase with four balls remaining, sealing a five-wicket win.
Former England wicketkeeper Sam Billings hit 58 and New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell 65 in Rawalpindiz's 197-6.
The win maintains Karachi's winning start to this year's PSL, putting them top of the standings with three wins from three. Pindiz have lost both of their games.
LUBBOCK, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 08: Romello Height #9 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders shouts during the first half of the game against the BYU Cougars at Jones AT&T Stadium on November 08, 2025 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images) | Getty Images
As both executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf and head coach Mike Vrabel said at the NFL Combine, the edge position is one of the biggest needs for the New England Patriots.
Even after signing Dre’Mont Jones to a three-year deal on the first day of free agency, that remains true. Jones is expected to start opposite of Harold Landry, but the veteran’s ability after an injury plagued season is TBD as he continues his rehab process. And after losing K’Lavon Chaisson and Anfernee Jennings in free agency, just second-year players Elijah Ponder and Bradyn Swinson remain as top secondary options on the depth chart.
That being said, the Patriots adding to the group early in the NFL Draft seems like a foregone conclusion based on the offseason so far. And if they do, Texas Tech’s Romello Height may be under consideration.
Career statistics: 48 games | 1,645 defensive snaps, 186 special teams snaps | 11 total tackles, 27.0 TFLs, 4 FFs, 2 FR | 131 quarterback pressures (16 sacks, 24 hits, 91 hurries) | 1 PD | 4 penalties
Accolades: First-team All-Big 12 (2025)
A three-star recruit out of Georgia, Height committed to the Miami Hurricanes before flipping his commitment to Auburn. After playing just 14 snaps in 2020, Height appeared in nine games as a rotational rusher his second season before entering the transfer portal.
After committing too USC, Height played just two games due to a shoulder injury. Returning to action in 2023 he appeared in 12 games for the Trojans and recorded 4.0 sacks before entering the portal yet again.
Height then spent the 2024 season with Georgia Tech and played a key role along the edge for the Yellow Jackets. He recorded 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles — none more noticeable than a game-sealing strip sack against Cam Ward and the No. 4 ranked Hurricanes in Week 11.
With one final year of eligibility, Height transferred for the third time to play for Texas Tech. He had a career-year on a loaded Red Raiders defense recording highs in snaps (598), pressures (62), sacks (10.0) and TFL (11.5). Height then entered the NFL Draft and attended the Combine.
Strengths: Height is a speed-rusher whose game is built around his athletic profile that featured elite explosive and great speed grades at the NFL Combine. He can quickly move laterally and has a quick first-step to shoot past tackles along the outside and counters that with a spin plus other inside moves. Height’s rush plan is predominately built around his strong hands as he featured a plethora of swipes and rips, while he also reportedly showed some speed-to-power potential at the Senior Bowl. Height plays with energy and a hot motor.
Weaknesses: Height will turn 25 years old two weeks before the draft and his background is worth monitoring as he had four stops (!) in college — likely part of the reason New England wanted to host him on a 30 visit. He only recorded 6.5 sacks over his first five collegiate seasons before an age-24 breakout playing opposite of projected top-five pick David Bailey on a talented Red Raiders defense. And as a speed rusher, Height’s size is a concern at 239 pounds that will limit him as a run defender.
Patriots preview
What would be his role? Height’s athleticism and ability to get after opposing quarterbacks (he finished last season with the 4th highest pressure rate, 23.5%, and 3rd fastest average time to pressure, 2.9s, in the FBS) would be a welcome addition to New England’s current depth chart. With Dre’Mont Jones and Harold Landry currently at the top of that group, Height could take over as the No. 3 rusher with an immediate role on passing downs.
Does he have positional versatility? Throughout all of his college stops, it was rare to find Height anywhere but rushing the passer as an outside linebacker off the tackle. That’s his role at the next level while he occasionally dropped into coverage and took on special teams roles.
What is his growth potential? Already 25 years old, Height’s ceiling is likely limited especially as he is not expected to be an every-down player at 239 pounds — which was up from his 234 pound weigh-in at the Senior Bowl. He projects best as a No. 3 rotational rusher who could have a similar impact as K’Lavon Chaisson did last year as a pass rusher.
Why the Patriots? The Patriots current edge group lacks the explosiveness that Height would bring when getting after opposing quarterbacks. That in itself should make him an option on day two of the draft.
Why not the Patriots? Height’s 239-pound build makes him even smaller than some of the undersized rushers New England has brought in under Mike Vrabel (around 255 pounds). They may opt for someone with a more well-rounded skillset in a deep draft class, while the four college stops is also a notable red flag the team will look into.
One-sentence verdict: Height has some notable flaws but will provide a valuable jolt of pass rush ability to an edge group.
For more information about Romello Height and the rest of this year’s class of prospects, please take a look at Adam’s 2026 NFL Draft Guide.
Also, what do you think about Height as a potential Patriots target? Do you like him? Where would you pick him? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.
Kyle Shanahan isn’t known for hiding his emotions behind “coach speech”, and when it comes to the NFL’s decision to send the San Francisco 49ers to Melbourne, Australia, to open the 2026 season, he is annoyed and concerned.
Speaking at the annual league meetings Monday morning, Shanahan was asked if he saw any competitive "pros" to the 19 hour flight across the Pacific to face the Los Angeles Rams, who are generally a 344 mile trip down south in the same state. His response was a blunt reality check for a league increasingly focused on global branding over local logistics.
"I don't see any pro," Shanahan said. "It's cool for the league to play globally. I think that's awesome. But as far as the team doing it, no, there's not much benefit to it."
The Logistics of Exhaustion
While the NFL celebrates the "historic" nature of the first regular season game in the Southern Hemisphere, the 49ers are left calculating the physiological toll. The flight from California to Melbourne covers nearly 8,000 miles. For world class athletes whose bodies are fine tuned machines and usually larger than the average human being, a 20 hour stint in a pressurized cabin with limited space is the opposite of "peak preparation."
Travel doesn’t just cause a bit of jet lag, traveling by plane, as we know, induces a state of systemic inflammation. Long haul travel is known to disrupt circadian rhythms, which regulates everything from muscle recovery to reaction times. For a team like the 49ers, who were already ravaged by injuries in 2025, forcing stars like Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle to endure this completely unnecessary strain before a single snap has been played feels like a massive gamble with their health.
"We may be going a little early," GM John Lynch added, noting the team might arrive a week in advance to acclimate. But even with an early arrival, there is no grace period on the back end. Unlike most international games, the Week 1 schedule means the 49ers will not receive a bye week upon their return. They will fly 20 hours home and immediately begin preparing for Week 2, effectively starting the season in a deficit of rest, which is never a good thing.
A Price Too High for Growth?
The NFL’s international push is relentless. Including the Australia trip and a December home game in Mexico City, the 49ers are projected to travel over 38,000 miles this season, which will be a potentially record breaking figure.
Lynch noted that being a "high profile team with stars" comes with a price, but at what point does that price become the integrity of the game? "You have to advocate for your guys," Lynch said. "But at some point, these are the cards you’re dealt."
If the league wants international fans to truly fall in love with the product, they need to see these stars at their best, which is ideally not when they are exhausted, dehydrated, and at a higher risk for soft-tissue injuries due to a brutal travel itinerary. For the fans in Melbourne at the MCG, the spectacle will be grand. But for the players on the 49ers’ sideline, the trip is an uphill battle that starts before the whistle even blows.
After 36 years of leading Call of Duty developer Raven Software, studio head Brian Raffel is leaving the company to "step into a well-earned retirement."
Canonical increased the recommended system memory for the upcoming Ubuntu 26.04 LTS "Resolute Raccoon" to 6 GB of RAM, a first major change since 2018. According to the release note, the 26.04 LTS now lists 6 GB of RAM as the baseline for a comfortable desktop experience, alongside a 2 GHz dual-core CPU and 25 GB of storage, unchanged from previous generations. This represents a 50% increase over Ubuntu 18.04 LTS, which in 2018 raised the bar to 4 GB, and a notable shift from earlier releases that ran on as little as 1 GB. The change is not caused by a heavier core OS. Instead, it reflects the reality of modern workloads. The GNOME desktop, now updated to newer revisions, along with current web browsers (i.e., Firefox) and everyday apps like LibreOffice, demand more memory in multitasking scenarios.
Importantly, 6 GB is not a hard requirement. Ubuntu 26.04 LTS will still install on systems with less than 6 GB of RAM. However, performance may suffer. Early testing shows that the OS remains functional even on 2 GB systems although with significant slowdowns. As before, the 25 GB storage requirement remains mandatory for the desktop edition. As Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is expected to be the next long-term support release from Canonical, the Ubuntu ecosystem provides many options for those using lower-end hardware. Lighter flavors such as the official Lubuntu or the Linux Lite distro, and manual installations with a minimal base remain available and viable options. Also, Ubuntu Server can be deployed on systems with around 1-1.5 GB of RAM, depending on the use case. Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is currently in development and scheduled to be released on April 23.
Valve's next-generation Steam Deck 2 handheld console is reportedly planned for release in 2028, with significant manufacturing changes expected for this sequel to the highly successful handheld gaming device. According to a well-known industry leaker, KeplerL2, posting in the NeoGAF community, Valve is targeting a 2028 refresh for the second-generation Steam Deck. However, the ongoing supply chain shortages of DRAM and NAND Flash could cause disruptions to these plans, potentially leading to delays. Interestingly, this period is when the shortages are expected to start easing, so the Steam Deck 2 could still be released on time, depending on Valve's sourcing capabilities.
One of the most significant procurement shifts for the Steam Deck 2 is Valve's choice of the computing base that will power the handheld. Instead of using a semi-custom AMD APU, Valve is expected to use an off-the-shelf AMD APU that won't require any custom tuning from AMD to meet Valve's needs. This is welcome news, as the latest Steam Machine showed that Valve's reliance on a semi-custom APU solution made the hardware "obsolete" quickly while the rest of the industry advanced. With any semi-custom solution, stockpiling silicon and waiting for DRAM/NAND modules to arrive puts pressure on Valve to ship a product that is significantly underpowered or too expensive. However, with an off-the-shelf solution, Valve could use the best available option at the time of shipping and optimize SteamOS around it.
Imagine you're a web hosting vendor leasing out specific number of CPU cores of a large core-count processor. You'd want to specify QoS limits on the shared L3 cache performance for those cores, so they don't hamper performance of other tenants. AMD this week released a technical document detailing the Platform Quality of Service (PQOS) ISA extensions for its next-generation Zen 6 microarchitecture. These ISA enhancements provide sysadmins and cloud providers with greater control over processor and memory subsystem performance. The latest document outlines three primary additions to the Zen 6 PQOS feature set, Global Bandwidth Enforcement (GLBE), Global Slow Bandwidth Enforcement (GLSBE), and Privilege-Level Zero Association (PLZA). These features are designed to scale performance management across complex multicore environments by allowing software to regulate bandwidth and execution privileges more effectively across expansive groups of logical processors. The development shows that AMD is steering toward a more closely collaborative hardware QoS solution for its multicore processors.
A highlight of the Zen 6 PQOS updates is the implementation of Global Bandwidth Enforcement (GLBE), which allows system software to specify L3 external bandwidth limits for groups of cores that span across multiple traditional QoS Domains. By grouping these into a unified "GLBE Control Domain," AMD enables a competitively shared bandwidth ceiling for specific Classes of Service (CoS). This upgrades older architectures that only provided L3 external bandwidth enforcement on a strictly per-domain granularity. Next up, AMD introduced Global Slow Bandwidth Enforcement (GLSBE), a parallel feature that applies the exact same multi-domain bandwidth limiting principles to system memory explicitly designated as "Slow Memory." Both GLBE and GLSBE provide granular controls via specific model-specific registers.
On your Windows PC, the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) uses Secure Boot certificates to ensure that only trusted software initiates the startup sequence. The certificates currently in use were originally issued in 2011 and are set to expire in late June 2026. To address this, Microsoft has been quietly rolling out updated certificates through Windows Update. Starting in April 2026, users can check their device's status via a new indicator in the Windows Security app. By navigating to Device security and then Secure Boot, a color-coded badge will show whether your device is fully updated, awaiting an update, or requires immediate attention.
The badge system is simple yet significant. A green checkmark indicates that the new certificates are installed and no further action is needed. A yellow caution badge, which will start appearing in May 2026, means the update is either pending or has been blocked by a hardware or firmware limitation. A red stop icon is the most serious state and could appear as early as June 2026, once older certificates start expiring. When this occurs, the device will no longer be able to receive critical boot-level security updates. The same status is reflected in the Windows Security system tray icon, so warnings are visible even when the app is closed.
Researchers at USC's Viterbi School of Engineering have demonstrated an electronic memory device that functions far beyond previously known thermal limits. In experiments, the device remained stable at 700 degrees Celsius – hotter than molten lava – without showing signs of degradation.
We interview experts, including Chris McGuire, senior fellow for China and emerging technologies at the Council on Foreign Relations, and former senior director in the U.S. National Security Coundil on the Trump Administration's shifting stance toward AI accelerator export control rules.
Dell’s 14-inch Pro Premium combines a lightweight magnesium chassis, optimized motherboard, AI-capable processors, and high-quality display for executive mobility.
Holland America Line hosted a week-long immersive tea programming during the Volendam’s Grand World Voyage in Asia from March 24–30. As part of the cruise line’s Culinary Ambassador program, Master Tea Blender Steve Schwartz, founder of Art of Tea, hosted various tea-themed experiences for guests. The experiences were designed to deepen guests’ appreciation for tea...
Century Cruises has announced what it describes as exciting news and ambitious expansion plans that are set to be unveiled later in April. Announcing the news in a statement, the company also said that its Miami office is fully operational, enabling it to become a “true player” in the global cruise family. Sales have also...
France, Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Ireland Join Forces in Windstar’s Bold New River-to-Ocean Cruise Revolution with Star Explorer!Windstar Cruises introduces river-to-ocean...
Set Sail in Style: Luxury Ocean Journeys with Explora Cruises Offer Exclusive European Adventures for Discerning TravelersExplore Explora Cruises in...
Samsung is not done with One UI 8.5 Beta for Galaxy S25 series, as a mega leak reveals future plan. If you are testing Beta firmware, get ready to receive at least two more Beta builds, and the Stable release date is reportedly “undecided.”
According to @ya_sking12767, Samsung has an extensive One UI 8.5 Beta plan for the Galaxy S25 series. The company may roll out Beta 9 and Beta 10 builds to users, and it could ultimately push the Stable release to May 2026.
Here’s when updates could release:
Beta 9 – April 9
Beta 10 – April 20
Galaxy S24 users may receive second and third Beta updates this month, with the dates said to be as follows:
Beta 9 – April 9
Beta 10 – April 20
Beyond S25 and S24, Samsung expanded the One UI 8.5 Beta Program to the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip as well. Future updates may be on these dates:
Beta 2 – April 9
Galaxy S23 series will join the One UI 8.5 Beta Program this month. The first Beta build has been spotted on the Samsung server along with the Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5. Release dates are expected to be:
Beta 1 – April 9
Beta 2 – April 23
Notably, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 have also joined the Beta Program in early March. Samsung recently released the second Beta update for the latest foldable phones, but the future rollout isn’t included in the mega leak.
The release dates haven’t been confirmed by Samsung. The company stays away from revealing an exact timeline for the rollout. However, the Beta 9 and Beta 10 plans are now cementing the feeling that S26 sales are being prioritized.
Garmin has issued a new beta update for users of the Instinct 3 series smartwatches. The change log states that this release tackles several bug fixes and makes minor improvements to these wearables.
HP has finally started selling new 14-inch laptops with Intel Panther Lake and Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 processors. Available with up to 64 GB of RAM, the OmniBook Ultra 14 features a 1,000 nit OLED display too. Intel models cost significantly less than their Qualcomm counterparts at launch, though.
Anker appears to be working on a new MagGo Power Bank. An accessory referred to with model number A1113 recently appeared in a certification database, providing limited specifications and an image of the device.
The Apple MacBook Air 13 M5 has no active cooling. This means that the M5 SoC inside the machine thermal throttles heavily under sustained loads. This thermal throttling reportedly takes a massive toll, as the MacBook Pro 14 M5 is over 40% faster in Cyberpunk 2077.
The Shelly Presence Gen4 sensor is now officially available in Europe. This compact smart home gadget can be used to detect still or moving objects, with support for Zigbee and Matter. It is said to be able to track multiple presences over several zones, with adjustable sensitivity.
Xiaomi’s Mijia Air Conditioner Eco 4-Star in 1.0HP and 1.5HP models have been spotted at the brand’s official online store in Malaysia. They join the existing Mijia Air Conditioner Pro devices. These product listings could point to a wider global rollout of these smart home products.
Xiaomi has finally released its latest Wi-Fi 7 router outside its home market. Now available in Europe, the Xiaomi Router BE19000 Pro offers 18,656 Mpbs transfer speeds, 10 Gigabit Ethernet and even NAS functionality thanks to a built-in M.2 2280 slot.
The Casio Edifice EQB-1300 watches have been officially confirmed for a global launch. The flagship model has a slim metal casing, a textured dial and a sapphire crystal. Features include Bluetooth connectivity, Tough Solar charging and 100 m water resistance.
CheckMag | The DRAM crunch is hitting console and PC gamers alike. Starting today, the Sony PlayStation 5 Pro officially costs €899, while Valve has so far declined to confirm the price of the Steam Machine. Anyone looking to spend about €899 on a gaming PC currently has two main options.
A new study confirms the existence of luminous phenomena observed in the 1950s around the Earth. However, their origin remains unknown, and several hypotheses have been put forward, such as the presence of artificial objects.
The global version of the Vivo X300 Ultra is almost upon us. Equipped with the same 6,600 mAh battery as its Chinese counterpart, the global version surpasses the Galaxy S26 Ultra in EPREL battery life tests. The gap between Vivo and Samsung's new flagships is not as large as their battery capacities suggest, though.
The Maco 470 is one of the first mini-PCs to feature AMD's Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 APU. While we await the Maco 470's global launch, manufacturer Aoostar has released a cheaper model that is about 20% cheaper than the mini-PC's initial configuration.
Enterprising gamers continue to look for ways to expand Switch 2 storage. In the latest promising development, the handheld has recognized an external M.2 SSD drive. Other adapters connected to the system’s MicroSD Express card slot produced error messages.
Honor is on a roll with its announcements, and the latest addition to its X-series smartphone lineup is a refresh of the toughened battery champion Honor X70, which was launched back in July. Honor also unveiled its latest fitness-oriented smartwatch - the Watch X5i, which brings 1.97-inch AMOLED and up to 21 days of battery endurance.
Honor X70 Refresh Edition
The X70 Refresh Edition has three changes: 1) it comes in a new Sunrise Gold color, 2) ships with MagicOS 10 based on Android 16, and 3) is CNY 300 ($44) more expensive than the regular Honor X70.
As for the rest of the...
Yesterday, the upcoming Samsung Galaxy A27 was spotted in the Geekbench online database, and this has revealed the fact that it's powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC, which will be paired with 6GB of RAM in one version.
Today a new rumor claims the Galaxy A27 won't just be switching SoCs from the Samsung-made Exynos line to the aforementioned Qualcomm Snapdragon. It will also allegedly feature an upgraded selfie camera.
Samsung Galaxy A26
This will have 12MP resolution, which is a tiny bit lower than the 13MP of its predecessor, but it should be better quality and take better...
Eduardo Camavinga’s future at Real Madrid appears increasingly uncertain, as Los Blancos are looking to reinforce the midfield. As a result, the Frenchman has caught PSG’s attention as they aim to strengthen their midfield ahead of next season.
Following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti, Eduardo Camavinga has ceased to be an undisputed starter for Real Madrid. While he still sees a fair amount of playing time, it usually comes off the bench, as a regular part of the rotation. However, Los Blancos are looking to reinforce the midfield, leaving the Frenchman’s future in doubt. In response, PSG are reportedly interested in the midfielder.
According to Diario AS, Paris Saint-Germain are closely monitoring the future of Eduardo Camavinga, as he has lost prominence at Real Madrid. Rather than actively negotiating a transfer, the French side are simply keeping track of his situation, as neither the midfielder nor the Spanish club have made a decision regarding his continuity. However, the 23-year-old star is no longer an undisputed starter, opening the door to any possibility.
Coach Luis Enrique currently relies on world-class midfielders such as Vitinha, João Neves, Warren Zaïre-Emery, and Fabián Ruiz. Still, a potential move for Camavinga would represent a clear step up in quality, as he would bring valuable versatility—something key to Paris Saint-Germain’s project. Moreover, he would arrive as an established star, making it a high-profile signing.
PSG may not have a straightforward path to securing the signing of Eduardo Camavinga. According to CaughtOffSide, Liverpool have remained one of the Frenchman’s main suitors for several months. With his versatility, Eduardo could slot in alongside Alexis Mac Allister or Ryan Gravenberch, giving the Reds more options. On top of that, he could take on a more advanced role—something the team still lacks.
Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid looks on.
Real Madrid midfield rebuild puts Camavinga role at risk
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled to find balance in midfield. Following the departures of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, they have been battling to find a player capable of organizing the team. In response, Los Blancos are aiming for a midfield rebuild, keeping several players on their radar. As a result, Eduardo Camavinga may not have as much space in the starting lineup.
According to Daniel L. Peinado, via Diario AS, Los Blancos are targeting Vitinha and Enzo Fernandez as the main candidates to reinforce the midfield. However, Kees-Smith is emerging as the top favorite, as he offers significant potential and could arrive for €50–60 million. Alongside them, Nico Paz is expected to return, with Real Madrid set to trigger the €9 million buy-back clause. With this, they aim to find competition for Thiago Pitarch.
With Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni ahead of him, Camavinga would become one of the last options in the rotation, as he does not fully offer something different from what those two provide. Because of this, the Frenchman could once again remain out of the starting lineup, although he would still see regular playing time as more of a rotational player than a key starter.
Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s manager, Jorge Jesus, has become unexpectedly connected in a growing wave of speculation surrounding the Saudi national team, as the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s manager, Jorge Jesus, has become unexpectedly connected in a growing wave of speculation surrounding the Saudi national team, as the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies. Rumors around the future of the managerial position continue to swirl, leaving the Portuguese star and his Al-Nassr coach at the heart of a story that stretches far beyond the Saudi Pro League.
The Saudi national team has been under pressure following a recent dip in performances, with the position of French coach Herve Renard becoming increasingly unstable. Reports indicate negotiations are underway about Renard potentially departing to take charge of Ghana ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The instability has opened the door to speculation linking top domestic managers, including Jorge Jesus and Simone Inzaghi, to the role.
According to Okaz, both managers have made it clear they are committed to their clubs at this critical stage, as Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal remain separated by only three points with eight matches left to play. Their focus remains firmly on the title race, but Jesus has subtly left the door open for future national team involvement. The Portuguese tactician has reportedly given preliminary approval to the idea, just not for now.
What did Jorge Jesus say about his future?
Halfway through the debate, Jorge Jesus finally addressed the rumors linking him directly to taking over ahead of the World Cup. Media outlets revealed that, despite speculation, Saudi Football Federation (SAFF) president Yasser Al-Misehal had not opened official negotiations with the Al-Nassr coach. Instead, Okaz confirmed that Jesus is prioritizing his project in Riyadh, where he is pushing for success in both the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League Two.
Jorge Jesus, Manager of Al-Nassr, interacts with Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr.
Jesus ended the uncertainty with a clear personal stance. He stated, “In my opinion, I know Saudi football very well… the national team is better than before, and I believe it will deliver a good performance in the World Cup, but it will be difficult to win the title.” His answer to whether he would accept the job was equally telling. “In football, there is no ‘if’… Now, my focus is on winning the league with Al-Nassr.”
Jesus reportedly designed Saudi Arabia’s latest match plan
In one of the most dramatic twists, Saudi journalist Falah Al-Qahtani claimed on the Hajma podcast that it was actually Jorge Jesus who created the tactical plan that secured Saudi Arabia’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Al-Qahtani stated, “It was Jesus who devised the national team’s plan for the match against Iraq, from which we qualified.” He added that the coach even visited the camp on match day, sharing tactical instructions before quietly leaving.
Jorge Jesus team Manager of Al-Nassr FC and Al-Nassr FC Players celebrate the win against Al Ittihad with the fans.
This revelation has intensified speculation about Jesus’ deeper influence and long-term relationship with the national team. It also raises questions about how closely Cristiano Ronaldo may be following developments, given the impact such changes could have on his World Cup preparation.
The situation surrounding Christian Pulisic and his Milan coach, Massimiliano Allegri, has taken a dramatic turn as multiple reports in Italy confirm an imminent change on the bench of the Italy national team.
The situation surrounding Christian Pulisic and his Milan coach, Massimiliano Allegri, has taken a dramatic turn as multiple reports in Italy confirm an imminent change on the bench of the Italy national team. News of Gennaro Gattuso’s likely resignation has placed Allegri in pole position for one of the most scrutinized roles in world soccer. While the shift concerns Italy, rumblings inside the Milan dressing room suggest the ripple effects could reach beyond Coverciano and directly touch Pulisic.
The Azzurri’s failure to qualify for the World Cup once again has triggered calls for a total restructuring, beginning with the head coach. Gattuso, who took charge in a difficult moment, is prepared to step aside after a heartbreaking exit to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final. According to Sky Italia and other outlets, both Allegri and Antonio Conte are being viewed as primary contenders for the role.
As the speculation intensifies, Allegri’s name stands out above the rest, with various Italian publications describing him as the “dream hire” for the national team. Yet his current contract with Milan complicates the scenario, as the Rossoneri face growing uncertainty over their long-term project. That uncertainty forms the foundation of a question many at Milanello are quietly asking: what would Allegri’s potential departure actually mean for Christian Pulisic?
How Allegri’s potential exit could affect Christian Pulisic
Under Allegri, Pulisic has undergone a transformative period in his Serie A career. The American has thrived in a system built around discipline, spatial control, and the freedom to attack in transition; all principles Allegri has reinforced since returning to the Rossoneri. Pulisic’s renaissance is one of the standout successes of Allegri’s second Milan era.
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri gestures during the Serie A match.
A managerial change could disrupt that dynamic. A new coach may alter the American’s position, tactical role, or priority within the squad. Even more importantly, the Italian boss’ departure could trigger a broader reshuffle of Milan’s project, including squad turnover, formation changes, or different expectations in forward areas.
Should Allegri take over Italy, Milan might be forced into a rapid appointment process, potentially selecting a manager whose philosophy does not align with Pulisic’s strengths. As La Gazzetta dello Sport put it,“Allegri leaving would change everything at Milan: the style, the priorities, the market”.
Why Allegri is seen as the perfect fit for Italy
Multiple Italian analysts have made a compelling argument for Allegri as the ideal replacement. Sky Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio described him as bringing “reliability, experience, wit, and brilliance… probably the ideal choice right now.” His reputation for pragmatism, knockout-match intelligence, and exceptional man-management makes him highly compatible with the demands of international soccer.
AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri consoles Alexis Saelemaekers during the Serie A match.
But Allegri’s position at San Siro has grown increasingly fragile. Previous reports from Corriere dello Sport and Sportitalia indicate he is dissatisfied with the club’s transfer strategy, with Real Madrid monitoring his situation closely.
Despite Milan having only two league defeats and one of the strongest tactical structures in the country, Allegri’s willingness to continue depends on receiving significant reinforcements, including a creative midfielder and a proven goalscorer. That uncertainty has raised deeper concerns within the Milan squad. If Allegri leaves abruptly, Milan faces a total tactical and developmental reset, which directly affects Christian Pulisic.
Christian Pulisic (left) and Massimiliano Allegri (right)
Amid growing rumors about his possible departure, Manchester City have reportedly asked Pep Guardiola for clarity regarding his future. However, the Citizens are said to be targeting Enzo Maresca as a potential replacement for the Spaniard.
Pep Guardiola has established as a legendary figure at Manchester City, transforming the club’s history. Despite his impact, the Spaniard’s future at the team remains uncertain. Because of this, the Citizens have reportedly asked the head coach for clarity regarding his professional plans. Meanwhile, they are considering Enzo Maresca as a potential candidate to replace him.
According to Ben Jacobs, the Citizens have asked Pep Guardiola for clarity regarding his professional intentions, as they want to have a plan in place in case he decides to leave the club. In fact, they are expecting the Spaniard to give a final answer before the 2026 World Cup. In addition, many transfer targets are weighing the future of the head coach when deciding whether to join the team, impacting the club’s planning.
Due to the uncertainty surrounding Guardiola, Manchester City are already exploring options to cover for his spot. According to Nicolò Schira, they are looking at Enzo Maresca as a leading candidate to take the reins. Furthermore, he has already had stints with the club, managing the U-23 team and serving as assistant coach. With this, he would represent a continuation of the project, as he knows the Spaniard’s working methods.
Although Enzo Maresca was fired by Chelsea, he has already proven to be a difference-maker in England. Not only did he earn promotion with Leicester City, but he also led the Blues to two titles in his first season: the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. In addition, he implemented a dominant style of play. Because of this, the Italian emerges as a strong option, currently available as a free agent.
Enzo Maresca, Manager of Chelsea, embraces Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City.
Report: Guardiola could be tempted by Italy as head coach
After failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Italy became the first champion to fail to qualify for three consecutive tournaments. In light of this, Gennaro Gattuso, Gianluigi Buffon, and president Gabriele Gravina have decided to leave the national team. With this, Sports Minister, Andrea Abodi, revealed that a rebuild of the project is needed. For this reason, Pep Guardiola emerges as a clear candidate to lead the new era, in case he leaves Manchester City.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) are looking to tempt Pep Guardiola to take charge of Italy, with the aim of rebuilding the entire foundation of the project. While this would be difficult from a financial standpoint, they are already seeking sponsors to make his arrival a reality. With the experienced head coach, they would aim to build a promising long-term project for the 2030 World Cup.
Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City and Enzo Maresca.
After becoming one of the owners of Almeria, Cristiano Ronaldo now faces a claim from Flamengo.
In February of this year, Cristiano Ronaldo announced the purchase of a stake in Union Deportiva Almeria, a second-division club in Spain. That move could now cause a headache for the forward, following a claim from Flamengo.
“Almeria owes Flamengo around €1.8 million for 590 days. In February, the athlete Cristiano Ronaldo acquired 25% of the Spanish club,” Flamengo said in a statement published on its official website this week.
According to the Brazilian giants, the situation stems from the transfer of Lazaro in August 2022. The left winger was transferred at the time from Flamengo to Almeria in a deal reported to be around $8 million. As part of that transfer, the Brazilian side had to cover taxes applied in Spain and has since been seeking reimbursement from Almeria for those expenses.
“Even after Flamengo was compelled to bear such amounts — totaling over €1.5 million — and following a formal FIFA decision fully recognizing its right to reimbursement, Almeria chooses not to fulfill its obligation,” the statement added. “The debt after 590 days of default exceeds €1,800,000.00.”
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
ALMERÍA HAS OWED FLAMENGO AROUND € 1.8 MILLION FOR 590 DAYS
In February, the athlete Cristiano Ronaldo acquired 25% of the Spanish club
Clube de Regatas do Flamengo hereby publicly expresses its vehement repudiation of the conduct adopted by the Spanish…
After providing context for the claim against Almeria, Flamengo detailed the steps it plans to take in its attempt to recover the more than $2 million it had to pay at the time for Lazaro’s transfer.
“Flamengo trusts that the competent bodies, particularly the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), will provide the appropriate response to this behavior, ensuring compliance with the decisions already issued within FIFA and the observance of the commitments undertaken,” the official statement said.
Almeria’s debt predates Ronaldo’s arrival
As made clear by Flamengo’s account of events, the claim originated long before Cristiano Ronaldo became one of the owners of Almeria. Between Lazaro’s purchase in August 2022 and Ronaldo’s appearance as the owner of 25% of the Spanish club, three and a half years elapsed.
Nevertheless, Ronaldo’s new role in Almeria’s structure necessarily makes him involved in this conflict, which could become a headache for him in his first foray into this type of ownership activity.
Türkiye Boks Federasyonu Başkanı Suat Hekimoğlu, Fenerbahçe Kulübü Başkanı Sadettin Saran'ı ziyaret etti.
Ziyarette; Türkiye Boks Federasyonu asbaşkanları Ercüment Aslan, Gökhan Kazaz ve Aslan Küçükemre ile Fenerbahçe Yönetim Kurulu Üyesi İlker Alkun, Fenerbahçe Amatör Şubeler Koordinatörü Seçkin Saruhan ve Fenerbahçe Boks Şube Sorumlusu Atagün Yalçınkaya da yer aldı.
Görüşmede kulüp ve federasyon arasında kurulacak yeni iş birliği modelleri ve ortak projeler ele alındı.
Ziyaretin ardından Suat Hekimoğlu, Sadettin Saran’a özel bir plaket takdim etti.
Beşiktaş Başkanı Serdal Adalı, Fenerbahçe derbisini yönetecek hakem Yasin Kol ile ilgili, "Derbi atmosferini ve baskısını kaldırabilecek bir hakem" yorumunu yaptı.
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 28. haftasındaki dev derbide Fenerbahçe ile Beşiktaş, 5 Nisan Pazar günü saat 20.00'de Chobani Stadyumu'nda karşı karşıya gelecek. Türkiye Futbol Federasyonu Merkez Hakem Kurulu, dev derbiyi hakem Yasin Kol'un yöneteceğini açıkladı.
Beşiktaş Başkanı Serdal Adalı, derbinin hakemi Yasin Kol ile ilgili açıklamalarda bulundu.
"DERBİ ATMOSFERİNİ VE BASKISINI KALDIRABİLECEK BİR HAKEM"
A Spor'a konuşan Adalı, "Zorluk derecesi yüksek, derbi müsabakaları yönetmiş, bu atmosferi ve rakip takım baskısını kaldırabilecek bir hakemimiz. Merakla VAR'a atanacak hakemleri bekliyoruz." ifadelerini kullandı.
Adalı ayrıca güzel ve dostane bir karşılaşma olacağını belirtirken, hafta sonu siyah-beyazlıların Nevzat Demir Tesisleri'nde kamp yapacağını ve kendisinin de takımla birlikte olacağını söyledi.
Gençlerbirliği Teknik Direktörü Volkan Demirel Süper Lig'in 28'inci haftasında oynayacakları Göztepe maçı öncesi açıklamalarda bulundu.
Volkan Demirel ve takım kaptanı Dimitrios Goutas, Beştepe İlhan Cavcav Tesisleri'nde basın mensuplarına açıklamalarda bulundu.
Demirel, takımın fiziksel kapasitesini yukarı çekmek adına milli maçlar nedeniyle lige verilen arada Antalya'da olumlu bir kamp süreci geçirdiklerinin altını çizdi.
Ligin 28. haftasında 4 Nisan Cumartesi günü Göztepe'yi konuk edeceklerini hatırlatan Demirel, "Kazanmamız gereken bir maç. İnşallah üç puan alırız ve bir serinin, mutluluğun başlangıcı olur." dedi.
Demirel, sezonu iyi yerde bitirmek istediklerini vurgulayarak, "Göztepe maçı bizim bu sezonki en önemli maçlarımızdan biri. Eşik maçımız olarak bakıyorum. Kazandığımız takdirde daha yukarılara devam etmemiz gerekecek. Ama hiç düşünmediğimiz olumsuz durumda da aşağıyla tamamen birebir muhatap olacağız. Düşmeyle alakalı bir derdim yok. Takımın performansını üste çekerek ilerleyen haftalarda takımımızı daha yukarılara taşımak istiyorum." değerlendirmesini yaptı.
Oyuncuların mental durumuyla ilgili konuşan Demirel, şunları kaydetti:
"Mental olarak iyiyiz, 7 maçtır kazanamayan bir takım görüntüsü yok. Hem motivasyon hem de moral olarak çok iyi durumdayız. Kazanmayı yakalarsak her şey daha da iyi olacak. Şu an sadece biraz öz güven eksikliği var, bunu da belki oyun oynanırken bizler analiz yaptığımız için daha iyi görebiliyoruz. Geriye döndüğümüz pozisyonlarda, ayağa oynamamız gereken yerlerde uzun vurmaya çalışıyoruz. Beşiktaş maçında yediğimiz gol... Bütün futbolcu kardeşlerim topu uzaklaştırmaya çalışıyor. Aslında topu indirmeye çalışsak belki ilk golü yemeyeceğiz. 10 kişi kalmamıza rağmen futbol anlayışımla bana kazanacağız gibi geliyor. Dediğim gibi mental, moral olarak bence çok iyiyiz. Belki 7 maçtır galip gelemiyoruz, 5 maçtır da gol atamıyoruz ama üstümüzde onun psikolojisi yok. Çünkü takımıma inanıyorum, takımım da bana inanıyor. Elimizden geldiği kadar çalışarak, en kısa zamanda istediğimiz yere geleceğiz."
"Söz veremem ama umut veririm"
Demirel, "Gençlerbirliği camiasında küme düşme endişesi var. Camiaya kümede kalma sözü verebilir misiniz?" sorusu üzerine "Söz veremem ama umut veririm. Söz verince yapmak istiyorum ama bazı şeyler elinizde değil. Örneğin Beşiktaş maçındaki gibi durumlar sizin elinizde olan şeyler değil. Umut olarak şunu söyleyeyim, düşmeyi hiçbir zaman düşünmüyoruz. Camiadaki insanlar da düşünmesin. Çünkü düşündükçe hem iyiyi hem de kötüyü çekiyorsunuz. İyiyi düşünelim, daha yukarılara oynayacağımızı hedefleyelim." ifadelerini kullandı.
Sezonun bitimine 7 hafta kaldığını hatırlatan Demirel, "Benim tahminim, (kümede kalma mücadelesi) 32-33 puanda bitecektir. Bizim 25 puanımız var, ihtiyacımız olan 8-9 puan. Bunu da alacak güçteyiz. O yüzden benim düşmeyle alakalı herhangi bir endişem yok. Ama endişesi olanlara da buradan umut verelim, hiç merak etmesinler inşallah ligde kalacağız." şeklinde görüş belirtti.
Milli takımın, Dünya Kupası biletini alması
Volkan Demirel, A Milli Futbol Takımı'nın 24 yıllık dünya kupası hasretine son vererek önemli bir başarıya imza attığını dile getirdi.
Dünya kupasının futboldaki en büyük organizasyon olduğuna dikkati çeken Demirel, şöyle konuştu:
"Bu organizasyonda olmak, Türk bayrağının orada dalgalanması hepimiz için bir gurur. Bu çocuklar, 'bizim çocuklar', bence bireysel anlamda bizim jenerasyondan daha yetenekliler. Son iki maçta da o takım bütünlüğünü gösterdiler. Bizden daha yetenekliler ama takım olma konusunda hep bir şey eksik gibi gözüküyordu. Ama bu maçlarda bence onu tamamladılar. Grup aşamasına da baktığımızda yenebileceğimiz takımlar var. Umuyorum ki grup aşamasını da tamamladıktan sonra bence finallerde Türk bayrağını en iyi şekilde dalgalandıracaklardır."
Goutas: "Volkan hocanın dönüşü takım için pozitif"
Gençlerbirliği kaptanı Dimitrios Goutas, Antalya'da verimli bir kamp yaptıklarını belirterek, "Çok zorlu bir maç bizi bekliyor. Çok iyi bir rakibe karşı oynayacağız. Fiziksel olarak gerçekten çok iyi oyuncuları var. Önde ve sahanın her yerinde pres yapabiliyorlar. Ligin son haftalarına girdik. Öyle bir noktadayız ki artık hata yapma lüksümüz yok. Umarım Antalya kampındaki çalışmalar sahaya yansır ve iyi bir skorla maçtan ayrılırız." diye konuştu.
Volkan Demirel'in bu sezon ikinci kez göreve gelmesiyle ilgili soruyu Goutas, "Volkan hocanın dönüşünün takım için pozitif olduğunu söyleyebilirim. Çünkü takımı daha önceden tanıyordu, bizi biliyordu. İyi bir dönem geçirmiştik. İsteklerini net bir şekilde ifade ediyor. Biz de onları net bir şekilde anlıyoruz. Bu, bir takım için çok önemlidir." şeklinde yanıtladı.
Gençlerbirliği'nde çok mutlu olduğunu söyleyen Yunan stoper, "Kulübün bize davranışı çok pozitif. Şu anda tek isteğim, önümüzdeki maçlarda iyi skorlar alıp Gençlerbirliği'ni layık olduğu yere getirmek." dedi.
"Ligin en iyi defans hatlarından birine sahibiz." yorumunu yapan Goutas, "Eğer istatistiklere bakarsanız kaç atak yediğimizi ve bunların kaçını savuşturduğumuzu net bir şekilde görebilirsiniz. Elimizden geleni yapıyoruz. Bence hak ettiğimiz bir övgü var." diyerek sözlerini tamamladı.
Gençlerbirlği, Göztepe hazırlıklarını sürdürdü
Gençlerbirliği, Göztepe ile oynayacağı maçın hazırlıklarını tesislerinde yaptığı antrenmanla sürdürdü.
Teknik direktör Volkan Demirel yönetimindeki antrenman, ısınma koşusu ve koordinasyon çalışmasıyla başladı. Kırmızı-siyahlılar, daha sonra sprint, minyatür kalelerden kurulu alanda pas ve taktik çalışmaları gerçekleştirdi.
Antrenman, yarı sahada yapılan çift kale maçla sona erdi.
20 yaşadək futbolçulardan ibarət Azərbaycan millisinin (U-20) bu ilin 13-26 aprel aralığında təlim-məşq toplanışı keçiriləcək.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə AFFA-nın rəsmi saytı məlumat yayıb.
Xəbərdə bildirilir ki, toplanış 2027-ci ildə Azərbaycan və Özbəkistanın birgə ev sahibliyi edəcəyi FIFA U-20 Dünya Çempionatına hazırlıq məqsədi daşıyır.
Qeyd olunan təlim-məşq toplanışı ilə əlaqədar futbolçuların düşərgəyə cəlb olunmasını təmin etmək məqsədilə AFFA və PFL-in təşkilatçılığı ilə keçirilən müvafiq liqaların təqvimində dəyişiklik edilə bilər. Bununla bağlı ictimaiyyətə əlavə məlumat veriləcək.
Sultanlar Ligi yarı final serisi ikinci maçında Fenerbahçe Medicana, sahasında Zeren Spor'u 3-1 mağlup etti ve seride durumu 2-0'a getirip finale yükseldi.
Son dakika Fenerbahçe transfer haberleri: Hırvat ekibi Dinamo Zagreb'te kiralık olarak forma giyen Dominik Livakovic ile ilgili flaş bir iddia ortaya atıldı. İtalyan basını, 31 yaşındaki file bekçisinin...Devamı için tıklayınız
Beşiktaş Başkanı Serdal Adalı, A Spor'a yaptığı açıklamada Fenerbahçe derbisini yönetecek hakem Yasin Kol ile ilgili, "Derbi atmosferini ve baskısını kaldırabilecek bir hakem" yorumunu yaptı. İşte o sözler...Devamı için tıklayınız
Sakatlık kriziyle boğuşan Galatasaray'da Trendyol Süper Lig'in 28. haftasında Trabzonspor'a konuk olacakları maç öncesi sevindirici bir gelişme yaşandı. İşte detaylar...Devamı için tıklayınız
13-26 aprel 2026-cı il tarixlərində 20 yaşadək futbolçulardan ibarət Azərbaycan milli komandasının təlim-məşq toplanışı keçiriləcək.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, toplanış 2027-ci ildə Azərbaycan və Özbəkistanın birgə ev sahibliyi edəcəyi FIFA U-20 Dünya Çempionatına hazırlıq məqsədi daşıyır.
Qeyd olunan təlim-məşq toplanışı ilə əlaqədar futbolçuların düşərgəyə cəlb olunmasını təmin etmək məqsədilə AFFA və PFL-in təşkilatçılığı ilə keçirilən müvafiq liqaların təqvimində dəyişiklik edilə bilər. Bununla bağlı ictimaiyyətə əlavə məlumat veriləcək.
Aprelin 2-də Azərbaycan Cüdo Federasiyasının təşkilatçılığı ilə Gəncə İdman Sarayında kəmər dərəcələri üzrə rəsmi imtahan keçirilib.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, İmtahanda 120 cüdoçu yaş uyğunluğuna əsasən ağ-sarı, sarı, narıncı, yaşıl və göy kəmər dərəcələri üzrə bacarıqlarını nümayiş etdirib. İmtahanı uğurla başa vuran idmançılara müvafiq kəmər və sertifikatlar təqdim olunub.
Kəmər imtahanları cüdoçuların texnikaları daha sistemli və hərtərəfli mənimsəməsinə, eyni zamanda motivasiyalarının artmasına xidmət edir. Bununla yanaşı, bu mərhələ gələcəkdə nüfuzlu daxili yarışlarda iştirak üçün vacib şərtlərdən biri hesab olunur.
The new ChatGPT ad format is standardizing, according to a new Adthena analysis of 40,000+ daily placements. What once felt experimental is becoming a disciplined, high-intent system for users already deep in decision mode.
The big picture:ChatGPT ads are converging on a short, structured, highly contextual style that favors precision over persuasion and utility over storytelling, marking a shift from creative-led advertising to real-time, intent-driven assistance.
By the numbers. Every word must carry weight and contribute directly to clarity or conversion:
The average headline clocks in at just 30 characters and around 5 words.
Body copy averages 116 characters and roughly 19 words.
What’s working. The dominant pattern is a “Brand: Benefit” headline, separating the name from a specific value. It works because users in conversational environments expect immediate clarity, not intrigue or ambiguity.
Almost every ad leads with the brand name. You need easy recall in a setting where users are already evaluating options, not discovering them.
Headlines are compressed. Headlines often read like functional labels rather than slogans. This brevity carries into the body copy. It typically uses two tight sentences: a proof point followed by an offer or nudge, showing you’re not trying to win an argument but give one compelling reason to act.
Context mirroring is a defining feature. The strongest ads directly reflect the user’s query or situation, signaling real-time tailoring. This marks a new level of AI-native targeting that goes beyond keyword matching into conversational relevance.
Concrete value signals carry outsized weight. Dollar signs and specific numbers — prices, savings, performance — consistently outperform vague claims. Numbers dominate body copy because they feel credible and native in a setting where you’re actively researching and comparing options.
Offers. Low-friction offers — especially “free” trials or demos — are the most common conversion lever, reducing commitment barriers while users are exploring.
Calls to action. These are explicit and action-oriented, favoring direct phrases like “Shop now,” “Compare,” or “Book” while abandoning generic prompts like “Learn more.”
The overall tone. Calm, confident, and measured, with minimal exclamation points or question marks. It aligns more with helpful guidance than ad hype, helping ads blend into the conversational flow rather than disrupt it.
Why we care. ChatGPT ads reach users at high intent, where clarity and relevance matter more than creativity or storytelling. In a conversational environment, ads compete with useful answers, so vague or overly branded messages get ignored while precise, value-driven copy performs better. This shift rewards short, structured messaging and gives early adopters an advantage as the format standardizes.
Between the lines. While ChatGPT ads share DNA with paid search — especially in their focus on intent and relevance — they differ by integrating into dialogue, responding to high-intent users, and delivering messaging that feels assistive rather than interruptive.
The takeaway. Success in ChatGPT advertising depends on precision, relevance, and credibility over creativity, emotional appeal, or brand-led storytelling. The winning strategy: fit in perfectly when a user needs a clear, trustworthy answer.
The analysis. Adthena CMO Alex Fletcher shared the data on LinkedIn.
The Solana price faced significant upward pressure as the broader market sentiments turned bearish following Trump’s address on the ongoing war. After losing a key support zone, the SOL is now trapped below the resistance, which may resemble a distribution, not a recovery. However, the buyers have not stepped in with conviction, while the price has not reclaimed any critical levels. As long as the SOL price does not reclaim its lost structure, the downside risk continues to prevail.
Hence, now the question arises whether the current correction is another consolidation or an accumulation.
Solana has lost a major horizontal support zone around $110–$120, a level that previously acted as a strong demand base throughout multiple cycles. Currently, the same level has flipped into resistance, where a retest may turn into selling opportunities hereafter. Historically, these types of structures tend to resolve lower.
The broader structure shows lower highs forming consistently after failure to reclaim key resistance between $110 and $120. Moreover, the recovery was extremely low after a sharp decline due to a weak bounce. Moreover, it is compressing just above a major downside target, highlighting a critical support level at $50.
This is the level where previous consolidation occurred with a strong demand, where risk-reward becomes attractive again. Therefore, the trade set suggests the SOL price may continue to remain range-bound and further initiate a breakdown to the demand zone.
Collectively, Solana is trading below broken structure and remains a wait-for-confirmation market, not a bottoming market. Failure to reclaim $100 to $110 keeps the pressure intact, while a breakdown below the range opens a move toward $60 first, then $50, which is the key accumulation zone. Until then, every bounce is likely a lower high in formation, not the start of a new rally.
New Tottenham Hotspur coach Roberto De Zerbi has confirmed that he will stay at the club if they are relegated to the EFL Championship, after signing a five-year contract that he describes as the ‘most important challenge’ in his career.
Speaking to the club’s official X account, the Italian gave a lengthy interview where he discussed why he chose to join Tottenham and what needs to happen to get the club out of their ‘difficult moment.’
“I’m very very happy and very proud to be here. I consider Tottenham one of the most important clubs in the world and so I’m very happy. I have a big responsibility but it’s a big challenge forme and I look forward to start, work with the players and win some games.”
De Zerbi did not sugarcoat the challenge on his hands, making no light of the difficult predicament the North London club find themselves in.
Spurs are just one point above the relegation zone with seven games to play, and De Zerbi has been brought in expeditiously in order to help boost their survival chances.
“I watched a lot of games, especially in the last period. I know very well the players. I love football, so I watch many games per week. I know everything, I know its a tough moment for Tottenham. But I know very well it’s a tough moment. It’s a difficult moment for everyone in Tottenham. I think we have the right qualities to come out from this moment.”
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Robert De Zerbi, Head Coach of Olympique de Marseille, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
De Zerbi: ‘I believe in the players’
One frequently recurring message of De Zerbi’s interview was the undeniable faith he holds in the squad.
“I believe in the players. I think we have to remember who we are, and who the players are because we have very big players. And we have to work with confidence in them and their qualities. They have to show what they are what they are used to playing.”
He then stressed the need to take it a game at a time, and not get too caught up with hypotheticals at this stage.
“I think we have to be focused just on the Sunderland game,I don’t want to speak about the schedule or the Brighton game or the Wolves game. Game by game, we have to prepare the players to win the game and to be focused just on the game.”
Last time we heard an Italian talking about the ‘history of Tottenham’, Giorgio Chiellini became meme immortal. This time, De Zerbi was a little more serious.
“We have to play with courage. We have to play with the qualities of the players, because if I accepted this challenge, it is because I have a lot of confidence in the players and the history of Tottenham football is a very clear style of play.
“The fans in the last seven games, especially in this moment, are crucial. We have to be together, they have to stay close to the players and the players have to give the right mentality and the right attitude to give back to the fans satisfaction and what they want to see on the pitch.
“Because after this part of the season, I think we can become great in the future.”
Roberto De Zerbi (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)
De Zerbi talks footballing philosophy & confirms he will coach Spurs next season
De Zerbi was asked about his philosophy and what Spurs fans can expect from his style of play.
“I think it’s not the right moment to speak about my philosophy in football. I’m here now, at the end for the season because we have to win games. And in football, the style of play, the tactical disposition are important.. But it’s a mentality and I would like to help the players reach the best mentality we can show.”
He then confirmed that he will be in charge next season, even if the club are relegated.
“I signed 5 years of contract because for me it’s a big challenge and I will be the coach of Tottenham next season, no matter what.”
The Italian did briefly touch upon his outlook on play and what he expects from his players, but stressed the need to tailor and adapt to what he has available to him in terms of players.
“I love keeping the ball, I love ball possession. I love creating chances, the chance to score. But in the same time, I love 11 defenders when we don’t have the ball because in this time of football we have to attack with 11 players, the keeper as well, and we have to defend with 11 players when the ball is not with us.
“I think in this moment we do not have time to work too much in more principles, but we have to know what we have to do on the pitch. We have to have good organisation with and without the ball.
“We have to consider the qualities of the players.We are lucky, I am lucky because I have big players with big talent and my work is to help the players to show their qualities.”
Finally, De Zerbi concluded with a touching homage to the sport
“Many times I’ve said football is my life and my life is football. But it’s true because football is my work. I respect football because football gave me everything. And for me, it’s not real work, it’s a passion.
“If I stay at home I watch football, If I work I watch football and nothing changes. For me, Tottenham, especially in this moment, it’s maybe the most important challenge in my career. I’m ready to start this challenge and I go to work with my characteristics, passion, vision of football and knowledge as well.
Lega Serie A President Ezio Maria Simonelli warns the top flight clubs ‘must have a primary role’ in reforms after Italy’s World Cup flop and Gabriele Gravina’s resignation.
Federation President Gravina resigned today, followed by Italy delegation chief Gigi Buffon, and coach Gennaro Gattuso is expected to follow.
An election has been scheduled for June 22 to appoint a new FIGC President, and the 274 delegates will vote with a system that gives Serie A 18 per cent of the power in this decision.
There is also 6 per cent to Serie B, 12 per cent Lega Pro, 34 per cent for the Amateur League (LND), 20 per cent the Players’ Association, and 10 per cent the Coaches’ Association.
Lega Serie A wants to take charge
Lega Serie A Enilive logo
“As the Lega Serie A, we must have a primary role, acting as a guide for all the teams,” Simonelli told reporters.
“Like all fans, we are disappointed, but we need to work on reforms, youth, reinforcing the governance and patrimony of the clubs, so we can get back to the past glories.”
The Lega Serie A had fought the main reform proposed by Gravina, which was to reduce the top flight from 20 clubs to 18.
Several names have been mentioned to become the new FIGC President, but the favourite would seem to be ex-CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) chief Giovanni Malagò.
“We didn’t even talk about names during the meeting,” insisted the Lega Serie A President.
Gabriele Gravina resigned as FIGC President today and assured it was ‘a personal, convinced and carefully meditated’ decision after Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
The head of the Federation had been expected to hand in his resignation straight after the penalty shoot-out defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday night, but he waited until today’s emergency meeting of the Italian football authorities.
He was swiftly followed by delegation chief Gigi Buffon, and coach Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to follow, as the failure to reach a third consecutive World Cup inevitably sparks an earthquake in Calcio.
Gravina explains resignation
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: (L-R) President of CONI Luciano Buonfiglio, President of FIGC Gabriele Gravina and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin look on prior the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
“I have to thank all the elements of the Federation, who again today showed great support, great respect, affection, and also insisted that I should continue, but I made my decision, it was a personal and carefully meditated one.
“You will be able to read the rest in a statement. We’ll see each other over the next few days, Happy Easter to everyone.”
Gravina had been the FIGC President since October 2018.
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
There was also a great deal of confusion, as just minutes after the FIGC announced that a planned presentation to the Government would go ahead on April 8, the Commission for Sport instead confirmed that the event had been cancelled.
Elections will be held on June 22 to elect a new President of the Federation, and only after that will Italy likely choose a new coach too.
There are 274 delegates who choose the new President, with 18 per cent of the vote going to Serie A representatives, 6 per cent Serie B, 12 per cent Lega Pro, 34 per cent for the Amateur League (LND), 20 per cent the Players’ Association, and 10 per cent the Coaches’ Association.
Roberto De Zerbi has given his first interview as the new head coach of Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur today, after he was announced as Igor Tudor’s replacement on a five-year deal.
Speaking to the club’s official social media accounts, De Zerbi broke his silence on the backlash he has received after his handling of Mason Greenwood at Marseille.
Reports this week revisited comments the Italian coach made at the end of last year, where he praised Mason Greenwood’s character and sympathised with the former Manchester United forward.
Greenwood was charged with attempted rape, assault, occasioning actual bodily harm and controlling and coercive behaviour in 2022. All charges were dropped the following February.
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Robert De Zerbi, Head Coach of Olympique de Marseille, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
De Zerbi: ‘I never wanted to downplay the issue of violence against women’
Speaking in Italian, to make himself as clear as possible on the issue, which has caused Tottenham Hotspur supporters groups to express concern with his appointment, De Zerbi said:
‘I have never wanted to downplay the issue of violence against women, or violence against anyone more broadly.
‘In my life, I’ve always stood up for those who are more vulnerable, more fragile. I’ve consistently foughtand taken a stand to be on the side of those who are most at risk.
‘Those of you who know me well will know that I’m not the kind of person who makes compromises to win more games or to win an extra title. Im sorry if I offended anyone’s feeling with this subject matter.
‘I have a daughter and I’m very sensitive to these things, and I always have been. I hope that over time people will get to know me better and will understand that at that moment I didn’t mean to take a stance.’
There are growing reports that Al-Sadd tactician Roberto Mancini is confident he’ll be called back as Italy coach, especially if Giovanni Malagò becomes FIGC President.
The failure to qualify for a third consecutive edition of the World Cup is prompting a radical reshuffle of the authorities in Italian football, with Federation President Gabriele Gravina and delegation chief Gigi Buffon tending their resignations today.
Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to follow suit, so the search is on for both a new coach and a new President of the FIGC.
Mancini eager for Italy return
Former Italy and Saudi Arabia head coach Roberto Mancini
According to Calciomercato, figures close to Mancini say he is confident of being at the top of the list, especially if Malagò is chosen to lead the Federation.
Currently under contract with Al-Sadd after a brief experience as coach of the Saudi Arabia team, Mancini had won the EURO 2020 tournament during his spell with Italy.
That ran from 2018 to 2023, when he abruptly resigned just a couple of weeks before the EURO 2024 qualifying campaign began.
Head coach of Italy Roberto Mancini, Team manager Gabriele Oriali and Assistant coach Alberico Evani look on during the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship Group A match between Italy and Wales at Olimpico Stadium on June 20, 2021 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
The presence of Malagò would be crucial, as he was President of the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) when he had to take temporary control over the FIGC because it was unable to elect a new President in 2018.
Massimiliano Allegri faces a significant attacking headache ahead of Sunday’s crucial Serie A clash with Napoli, with both Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic serious doubts for a fixture that could have major implications for Milan’s second-place finish and their fading title hopes.
According to Pazzidifanta, Leão has been managing a pubic inflammation that forced him to train separately in the days before the international break.
The Portuguese winger spent much of the break in Portugal, with the club’s agreement, undergoing specialist medical assessments, and his availability for Sunday remains uncertain.
Pulisic, meanwhile, endured a difficult spell with the United States national team and is considered unlikely to start even if he is passed fit.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Niclas Fullkrug of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fullkrug & Nkunku could partner up for Milan against Napoli
The absences of two such important and distinctive attacking players represent a considerable challenge for Allegri, who must find a way to unlock Conte’s well-organised Napoli defence without his most creative wide options.
Niklas Füllkrug is the most likely candidate to lead the line, having started against Torino in the last Serie A fixture.
Should Pulisic miss out entirely, Christopher Nkunku, who has not started since February’s match against Como, could come in alongside the German, offering greater movement and quality between the lines.
Santiago Gimenez is another option after the Mexican made his return from injury as a substitute against Torino, though his fitness levels after months on the sidelines make a starting role a stretch.
The most probable outcome is Nkunku partnering either Füllkrug or Gimenez, two players more comfortable linking play with their back to goal than the dynamic, direct duo they would be replacing.
Arsenal remain interested in signing the Real Madrid defender Victor Valdepenas at the end of the season, and they will face competition from AC Milan.
According to Spanish publication AS, they are in the running to secure his signature, and it remains to be seen whether they follow up on their interest with an official offer in the summer. The player could cost around €50 million, and Arsenal certainly have the financial muscle to get the deal done.
However, they have multiple quality defenders at their disposal, and it would be quite surprising if they decided to invest in the 19-year-old. There is no doubt he is a talented player with a bright future, but they might not be able to offer him regular opportunities.
Valdepenas needs regular opportunities at this stage of his career in order to improve further and fulfil his potential. Joining a big club only to sit on the bench would be detrimental to his development. The move might not be ideal for the young defender either.
Also, Real Madrid will not want to lose a talented player like him anytime soon. A move to Arsenal in the summer seems complicated for now.
On the other hand, AC Milan could represent an exciting opportunity for the young defender. They will be able to provide him with regular gametime, and they have an excellent track record of nurturing young players.
Newcastle United are interested in signing the Palmeiras attacker Eduardo Conceicao.
The 16-year-old is a youth player for the Brazilian club, but he is highly rated in South America. He has been linked with Arsenal in the past. Newcastle have already submitted an offer of around €25 million to get the deal done, but their offer has been turned down, according to RTI Esporte. The Brazilian outfit is holding out for a fee of €40 million for the young attacker.
The report claims that Liverpool and Barcelona are monitoring his progress and have been in contact with his representatives.
Eduardo Conceicao could be a future star
It is a lot of money for an unproven player at the highest level. It will be interesting to see if Newcastle is prepared to break the Bank for him. He would be a long-term investment for them. Conceicao has the potential to develop into a quality player with the right guidance, and he might be able to justify the outlay in future. The 16-year-old is a left winger who can operate on either flank.
Conceicao has yet to make his mark for Palmeiras’ first team, and moving to England might be too soon for him. He is unlikely to get any first-team opportunities with Newcastle if he joins the club in the summer. He should look to continue playing regularly at the youth level for now and continue his development. If Newcastle end up signing him in the summer, they should look to send him out on loan so that he can play at a competitive level regularly.
Eduardo Conceicao celebrates a goal (Photo by Guilherme Veiga/Palmeiras)
It is exciting that Newcastle are looking to build for the future by signing some of the top talents around, but they also need to invest in players who can make an immediate impact. They have looked mediocre going forward this season, and signing a quality attacker should be an absolute priority for them in the summer.
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The temperature is rising — and with that, recruiting is heating up.
With spring in full swing and summer approaching, momentum is building across the country as programs position themselves to close on top targets. The recent commitment of elite EDGE Zyron Forstall to Texas A&M is just the start, and as April turns to May and June, decisions are expected to come quickly.
Several programs have already put themselves in strong position — particularly Georgia, Kentucky, Miami and Tennessee, all of which are trending with priority defensive targets.
Georgia
Georgia continues to operate with a clear plan at linebacker — identify a select group of fits early and push hard. That approach has paid off again with four-star linebacker Noah Glover out of Haymarket (Va.) Battlefield. The No. 177 prospect in the Rivals Industry Ranking has been to Athens five times, and the Bulldogs continue to set the pace.
Glenn Schumann has led the charge, building a strong relationship and making Glover a top priority from the start. Georgia remains the team to beat as Glover moves closer to a decision, with a return visit expected in June. Programs like Miami and Texas A&M continue to push, but the Bulldogs hold the edge heading into the final stretch.
Kentucky
Kentucky has quietly gained serious traction with four-star linebacker Jalaythan Mayfield out of Lincolnton (N.C.). Miami generated buzz earlier in the process, but after a January visit to Lexington followed by a return trip in late March, momentum has shifted toward the Wildcats.
Defensive coordinator Jay Bateman has done an outstanding job here, building a strong connection and clearly defining Mayfield’s role in the defense. Mayfield is set to announce his decision on July 18, and Kentucky will get the final official visit on June 19 — a key advantage as things stand.
Miami continues to build momentum with multiple targets this spring, but one of the biggest developments centers around elite linebacker AJ Randle. The Garner (N.C.) standout has seen his recruitment take off, and after a strong visit to Coral Gables earlier this week, the Hurricanes have surged up his list.
Florida had some buzz around it, but Miami has made a significant move coming out of recent visits. Randle is still working through his process and taking visits, but there is real buzz around Mario Cristobal’s program surging to the top for four-star linebacker.
Tennessee
Tennessee is making a strong push to flip one of the top commits in the Southeast. Four-star linebacker Omarii Sanders, currently committed to Vanderbilt, has locked in official visits with Tennessee and Texas A&M — and the Vols are trending.
Sanders has been back in Knoxville recently, communication has increased and sources indicate Tennessee has built real momentum in the race. Josh Heupel and his staff have positioned themselves well, and while Sanders is still evaluating Vanderbilt and Texas A&M, there is growing confidence that Tennessee has a legitimate shot to pull off the flip.
The star out of Nashville (Tenn.) Franklin Road Academy could make a decision soon and doesn’t plan to take his recruitment deep into the official visit season.
With three races ticked off so far of the 2026 Formula 1 season, it appears that Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli is now a significant championship threat to his teammate George Russell.
With just one year of premier class racing experience, Antonelli secured victory in two of the three races so far in China and Japan, making him the championship leader.
Russell, on the other hand, who joined F1 in 2019 and has been with Mercedes after his early stint with Williams, was expected to lead the team with flying colors, but with Antonelli in top form, it looks like Russell may have gotten a bitter reality check after finishing in P4 last weekend at Suzuka.
The British driver won the opening round in Australia and the sprint race in China, but after that, Kimi Antonelli took over the lead. Mercedes has provided both drivers with a dominant car that clearly outperforms its rivals, but out of the two, Kimi Antonelli seems to be coming out on top.
The 19-year-old driver started the race at Suzuka from pole position and went on to win the race, despite suffering a setback during the race start due to excessive wheelspin, dropping him several places.
Antonelli Proved His Dominance in Suzuka
Sky Sports F1‘s Natalie Pinkham, Martin Brundle, and David Croft discussed the Mercedes drivers on The F1 Show, stating that Russell will now be eager to bounce back after his P4 finish in Japan. Crofty noted that Kimi Antonelli had the advantage throughout all sessions during the race weekend in Japan. He said:
“I felt in the practice sessions that Kimi had one, two, sometimes three tenths on George. George’s problems weren’t helped by a setup direction that gave him a less-than-ideal rear end to the car. And that certainly played out in qualifying. I think it played out a bit in the race as well.
“But take that away, Kimi Antonelli, Barring his [race] start was absolutely superb in the race. And he admitted the start was his fault. He dumped the clutch a bit too much. Tires were cold, got the wheel spin to battle back from P6, at the end of the first lap to then go and win.
“Absolutely superb. And with or without the safety car, he was the fastest man on the track around the time of the safety car, and I think he would have put a lot of pressure on his teammate, and then Oscar Piastri as well.
“You know what it’s like, Martin, as a driver once you’ve got that confidence. It was almost like a fifth wheel for him. Um, it does give you an extra tenth, an extra two-tenths. And I think that’s what we saw a lot of this weekend.”
Russell Will Have to Expect The Unexpected
Former F1 driver Brundle stated that with a dominant car at hand, Russell will be concerned about the championship after Kimi Antonelli proved what he could do. He said:
“If I was George, I’d be more concerned after three races than I was at the beginning of the season. George did all those hard yards at Williams and spent an extra year or two there. Goes to Mercedes, they stopped dominating and [he] has to tolerate all that.
“Now, they look like they got a championship car, and you’d say George has got the upper hand, and all of a sudden he’s got to be looking across the garage and thinking, ‘Hang on a minute. This is nowhere near certain. I’ve got to beat this teenager yet.’”
Pinkham added that Russell was the favorite driver until now, but things seemed to have changed a bit. She said:
“George was the out-and-out favorite coming into the season and Kimi was just going to be a very convenient rear gunner. Suddenly, he looks like a threat and it’s like, hang on a minute. Wasn’t expecting that.”
Brundle added that Russell will have to look at Kimi Antonelli as a significant championship threat and treat him like how his former teammate Lewis Hamilton was during his prime in F1. He said:
“It’s difficult times for George, and he’s got to treat Kimi Antonelli just as if he’s Lewis Hamilton in his peak and a threat for the championship.”
Will the City of Discovery prove a graveyard for Celtic's title defence?
In three prior visits this season (two to Dundee United and to Dundee), Celtic have returned home with zero points.
And having watched their team sink on the sandpit of Tannadice last time out, Celtic fans would be forgiven for carrying a sense of dread with them to Dens Park on Sunday.
Much has to improve from that dismal defeat to United that leaves Martin O'Neill's men five points off leaders Hearts with just 21 left to play for.
Just when Celtic had gained enough ground to breathe down the necks of long-time leaders Hearts, they threw in an absolute stinker of a performance and then had a fortnight to stew over it.
There may be (badly needed) reinforcements to pep up O'Neill's side this weekend, with right-back Alistair Johnston, midfielder Arne Engels and striker Callum Osmand all in contention for a comeback.
Expectations must be tempered, though, for a returning trio bereft of match sharpness.
Celtic will need all the help they can get to overcome a Dundee team who have already provided plenty of problems this season.
Celtic's were beaten 2-0 at Dens Park in October during the dying embers of Brendan Rodgers' reign. That was Celtic's first loss at Dundee in 37 years and the first of their eight league defeats this season.
There was a scratchy 1-0 victory over Steven Pressley's side in December to give O'Neill a winning send-off on the day Wilfried Nancy was announced as the new manager. As we all know, that did not go well.
Then came a dramatic Scottish Cup win over the Dark Blues where Celtic trailed at home until Junior Adamu flicked in an an outrageous backheel equaliser in the 97th minute and Sebastian Tounekti completed the comeback in extra time.
This time Dundee, five points above the relegation play-off spot, are still be scrapping for Premiership survival. Celtic, who can ill afford any more slip-ups, have been well warned.
OGC Nice provide update on INEOS’ sale of Ligue 1 club
Going into the summer, there is a lot of uncertainty around OGC Nice. For starters, it is unclear whether the club will even be in Ligue 1. With seven games to go, they sit five points ahead of AJ Auxerre, who occupy the relegation playoff spot. Nice have to face L’AJA before the end of the campaign.
Then there is the question of the manager. Claude Puel came in on an interim basis in order to stave off relegation. He is expected to depart at the end of his mandate, although there is the possibility that he remains on the bench beyond the end of the campaign. Sporting director Florian Maurice is “highly likely” to depart, L’Équipe understands. Many of the players, especially those that retain the highest market value, are touted to leave, as will the co-presidents Jean-Pierre Rivere and Maurice Cohen. Like Puel, both arrived mid-season on a “mission” to prevent Nice from dropping into Ligue 2.
Rivere speaks of ‘significant losses’ at Nice
The pair have recently also evoked the club’s sale. Since purchasing a minority share at Manchester United, INEOS have been looking to sell the Ligue 1 side. “There is currently a bank that is taking care of [the sale],” Rivere recently told Nice-Matin.
He added, “They are taking care of that. I am a bit outside it all. Maybe INEOS will still be here for a few years, maybe there will be a sale. I don’t know. What is certain is that it is INEOS who are covering the club’s losses every year, and they are significant.” Not exactly the best sales pitch to any prospective buyer.
Speaking on BFM, Cohen added, “We know that Nice are for sale through Lazard (bank), who perhaps have had talks, but we aren’t informed on what is happening. We haven’t had any official communication. If someone bought the club, it would be to either do better (than INEOS have) or to stabilise the club.”
Real Betis have picked up 44 points and currently lie in 5th position. In their last fixture, Manuel Pellegrini's team suffered a 2-1 reverse against Athletic Bilbao (La Liga 2025/26).
Espanyol currently have 37 points and lie in 10th position. Last time out, Manolo González's team slipped to a 1-2 defeat against Getafe (La Liga 2025/26).
The last meeting between the two teams ended with Real Betis winning 2-1.
Kirk Cousins didn't work out as the Atlanta Falcons' $180 million man.
He was limited by the slow recovery process from a torn Achilles in 2023 and generally looked like he was left playing at 0.75x speed while the game froared around him. Michael Penix Jr. arrived as Atlanta's surprising draft pick just months after his signing. The former Washington star eventually usurped Cousins before suffering his own injury, leaving the Falcons to move on and release their high-priced veteran this offseason.
Now he's set to play veteran mentor to another first round rookie quarterback. Cousins signed with the Las Vegas Raiders Thursday morning, linking him with likely first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Fernando Mendoza. After releasing Geno Smith, Las Vegas needed a reliable backup. Now the Raiders have one in the soon-to-be 38-year-old Cousins, who can start or provide a high-value understudy as the franchise aims for its first postseason win in more than two decades.
The deal: Raiders sign Kirk Cousins for five years, $172 million (but really one year and $11.3 million, along with $8.7 million in guarantees from his Falcons deal)
As Tom Pelissero points out, there's a complicated combination of factors at play here when it comes to Cousins' total compensation. The Raiders are kicking in $10 million guaranteed when Cousins is on the roster on the third day of the new league year next March. They hold the option on the final two years and $80 million for 2027 and 2028.
That probably won't happen and, if things go poorly (or even just fine), all Las Vegas is on the hook for is the $1.3 million veteran minimum this season and $10 million next spring.
All in all, it's a five-year, $172 million deal. In reality, it's basically one year and $20 million for Cousins, of which the Falcons will be paying $8.7 million.
That's still a lot of money for a quarterback whose 0.053 expected points added (EPA) per dropback ranked 28th out of 43 quarterbacks to play at least 320 snaps the last two seasons -- behind Mason Rudolph and, sigh, Tua Tagovailoa. But Cousins improved as his Achilles returned to something approaching normalcy. His play action rate rose back up to 23.4 percent, up from 14 percent the season prior. His EPA fell to 0.31 last season, but he still managed to slap together efficient performances that led the Falcons to a four-game winning streak that capped off the season and made the first round draft pick owed to the Los Angeles Rams in the James Pearce trade (oof) a little less valuable.
He'll give new head coach Klint Kubiak a potential veteran starter should Mendoza need a runway before his NFL takeoff. While he modestly ascended to end 2025, Cousins brings very real questions to his game.
Even if his Achilles is back to 100 percent, what will that look like in his age 38 season -- a time where quarterback arm strength tends to wane? Cousins played in an offense with Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts last season and was largely a game manager. His 6.9 air yards per attempt were a career low, even though his deep ball rate hit a four-year high (8.6 percent, 24th-highest in the NFL).
That's a system that might work in Las Vegas. Ashton Jeanty has Robinson potential. Brock Bowers can rumble upfield to turn short targets into long gains. That would set up deep shots to, uh, Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor or Donte Thornton? Jack Bech? But Cousins couldn't connect with his Falcons wideouts downfield, completing only four of 24 throws that went 20-plus yards downfield. It's fair to wonder if his deep game is permanently compromised.
"Permanently compromised" is not a phrase you want attached to a player with eight figures in guaranteed money. It would have only cost the Raiders $7 million in extra cash to keep Geno Smith around, though he made that a tricky proposition by flipping off the home fans in his lone season in Nevada. Paying Cousins $11.3 million gives him the 21st-highest salary among NFL quarterbacks, which is skewed by the sheer number of inexpensive contracts for rookie starters (Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, etc) but still pricy.
He's getting less than Justin Fields will make to play a similar role in front of, then ceding snaps to, an injured Patrick Mahomes. He's also getting more than backups like Rudolph, Jacoby Brissett, Davis Mills or Marcus Mariota. If he can improve even 20 percent on his 2025 finish he's a better player than any of those QB2s. If he stays the same, well, the Raiders are overpaying by about $4.3 million.
That's a reasonable gamble for a player who can be a risk-averse veteran presence who is well-liked in the locker room and leads by example. It's also one that could backfire, but Las Vegas has the cap space to be proactive. Given the current state of the market, high asking prices for young backup/starters like Mac Jones and Tanner McKee and the Raiders' needs, this was probably the best they could hope for after Kyler Murray signed with the Vikings.
Interim Albion boss James Morrison says he has a welcome selection headache for the Baggies' Good Friday visit of Wrexham (15:00 BST).
Goalkeeper Max O'Leary is fit to return after limping off against Hull City on 14 March, with Josh Griffiths coming on to see-out the 3-0 win and then kept a clean sheet in a win at O'Leary's former club Bristol City on 21 March.
"I've made my decision on who starts," Morrison told BBC Radio WM. "It's good for them to compete. They are both important.
"Josh came in and was ready. Max did well leading up to the games he missed. It's a good [headache] to have."
Defender Chris Mepham and attacking midfielder Tammer Bany have also returned to training and Morrison added: "It's a big plus, getting a few faces back. It's positive for the group.
"Ultimately I want people fighting for the spot, putting pressure on people starting. When someone drops out, someone replaces them with the same level of intensity and fight, that's what I've been banging the drum about."
Morrison said it was unlikely either would be ready to feature until after the Easter Monday trip to Blackburn, managed by Michael O'Neill, who also took charge of Northern Ireland in their 1-1 friendly draw against Wales on Tuesday.
Morrison admitted he'd had "genuine concerns" about Isaac Price's involvement in the game, given the significance of Monday's match against O'Neill's club, but added: "I was happy that he only got 45 minutes - Michael did the right thing and I was happy about it."
Bany is hoping to represent Jordan at the World Cup but has played just one solitary minute in the Championship this season and has missed the past 16 games because of a thigh injury.
"He's very keen. He just wants to get back on the pitch to show what he can do," Morrison added. "He's had a difficult period. He's a day to day one, see how he is in training and go from there.
"He's young, come into a new club, when you're injured it can be lonely, sometimes he's on his own. He'll probably feel a bit embarrassed he's been injured for all this period.
"He is young, eager to impress and wants to help on the pitch, it's important he feels the love."
What does the Las Vegas Raiders Kirk Cousins signing mean for looming top 2026 NFL Draft pick Fernando Mendoza?
Cousins signing a seemingly big money deal with Vegas makes you wonder if Vegas really want Mendoza to sit for a year and learn behind the veteran quarterback.
Does this deal mean Mendoza will sit on the bench in 2026? We imagine that depends in part on how Cousins plays. The money in the deal isn't quite to the point where Vegas couldn't bench Cousins because of his contract.
However, signing Cousins may signal in general that the Raiders want to slow-walk Mendoza's development and give him the full slate of games in 2027.
That's not typically how first-overall draft picks enter the NFL these days, but it might be a smart path for Vegas to take with its potential franchise quarterback. We'll see how this all unfolds in the fall.
After coming to an agreement on a new, transformational collective bargaining agreement, the WNBA’s offseason is in full swing. It’ll be a bit of a sprint — I’m both excited and pre-exhausted for what the next three weeks are about to be — but we’re finally about to get some firm answers about what the league will look like.
First on the docket is the expansion draft for the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo. Unlike last year, where the Golden State Valkyries got to handpick their team, we have two teams selecting from a pool of players. Further complicating matters is the fact that most of the league is set to be free agents; many players signed one-year deals in anticipation of the new CBA — and the expected (and now official) jump in salaries.
In short, things will look a little different this time around. Some base rules for the draft, taking place this Friday at 3:30 ET:
There will be two rounds, with the Fire (selecting first) and Tempo making up to six selections per round.
Each of the 13 non-expansion teams were able to protect five players (down from six last year) from their roster to be withheld from the draft pool; the remaining players are eligible to be selected by the Fire or Tempo.
Once a player is selected from a team’s unprotected list in the first round, no other player from that team can be selected until the next round. For example, if the Fire select Haley Jones (Dallas Wings), no other Wings player can be selected until the second round. The Fire or Tempo can select up to two players from the same roster; they just can’t be selected in the same round.
Any unprotected player who has five or more years of service and does not have a contract for the 2026 season is considered a “Potential Unrestricted Free Agent.” Portland and Toronto can only select one player each that fits that description. If the player they select is eligible to be designated as a Core Player, they can make that designation. If the player is no longer eligible for a Core designation, the expansion team that selects that player will be the only team that can negotiate a supermax contract with that player. The latter portion could really matter for players like Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty), Bri Jones (Atlanta Dream), and Kahleah Copper (Phoenix Mercury); if their teams feel like they’re a virtual lock to re-sign this offseason — Stewart has already announced she’s coming back to New York — they may choose (or gamble) to leave those players unprotected and use their protected slot on someone they feel is more at risk of being chosen.
For this piece, we’re going to look at each roster and the contract status for its players. We’ll then do our best to predict who will be protected, and who some of the top targets will be in light of that. As a quick contract status guide:
Under contract: These are the players on rookie scale contracts or, in the case of Kalani Brown (Mercury) and Lexie Brown (Storm), veterans who are already signed through this year.
Unrestricted free agent (UFA): These players are eligible to sign anywhere they want ... unless they get the Core designation.
Restricted free agent (RFA): These players can sign offer sheets elsewhere, but their current team has the right to match an offer sheet.
Reserved free agent: Unlike restricted free agents, their current teams have exclusive negotiating rights unless renounced.
Draft rights: These are players that were (recently) drafted, but have not signed/appeared in the WNBA yet.
Suspended contract rights: There’s a lengthier explanation, but for the purposes of this exercise, think of them in a similar bucket to reserved free agents.
In light of the Chicago Sky’s recent trades with the Tempo and Fire — both teams have agreed not to select a player from the Sky’s unprotected list for second-round compensation — they’ll be excluded in this exercise.
All roster and contract status data comes courtesy of HerHoopStats.com.
This feels relatively straightforward. Gray, Howard, Jones and Hillmon were the Dream’s four best players last year. Paopao made a strong case for an All-Rookie selection last season, and her contract grants team control through 2028.
As mentioned in the prelude, there’s an argument to leave Jones unprotected since she isn’t core eligible. The 2025 season was the first time in her career she’s firmly been her team’s best and most prioritized frontcourt player, and she clearly seems happy in Atlanta.
On the flip side, she would be the unquestioned star — not just top frontcourt option — for the Tempo or Fire if selected, and it may be hard to turn down a supermax ($1.4M). It’s why I ultimately landed on Jones being protected.
Being able to get cost-controlled, high potential talent should be a priority for the Tempo or Fire. Puoch and Borlase would certainly fit the bill there. If the aim is more immediate impact, getting exclusive negotiating rights to Caldwell — one of the few genuine 3-and-D wings in the WNBA — would be a great bit of business.
This also feels relatively straightforward. The quartet of Lacan, Rivers, Morrow and recently acquired Edwards are all on their rookie contracts and boast (moderately) high potential. Mabrey is the team’s best veteran and most dangerous shooter, though growing pains within heightened on-ball responsibility led to efficiency dips last season.
There’s room to make a “We dare you to core her” gamble with Mabrey to protect another one of the young bigs, but 1) I’m not sure if they need to protect three bigs and 2) I’d anticipate the Sun wanting to take a real step in wins this season with their unfortunate departure from Connecticut on the horizon. Mabrey likely helps more with that.
Key targets: Olivia Nelson-Ododa, Rayah Marshall
With that being the case, I’d be all over ONO as a target. She’s coming off of a career year, and I think there’s more there. She’s a quality screener, passing hub, and versatile defender. Any more growth as a self-creator and you’re looking at a pretty firm starting-quality big.
Marshall didn’t get much burn with the Sun last year because of the frontcourt depth, but I’d be intrigued to see how much of her defensive activity (and wild stock production) carries over from her USC days.
Dallas Wings
Under contract: Paige Bueckers, Maddy Siegrist, Aziaha James, JJ Quinerly, Diamond Miller
UFA: Arike Ogunbowale, Ty Harris, Myisha Hines-Allen
Reserved: Luisa Geiselsöder, Haley Jones, Li Yueru, Grace Berger
Suspended: Awak Kuier, Lou Lopez Senechal
Likely protections: Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, Maddy Siegrist, Luisa Geiselsoder, Awak Kuier
I think the only guarantees here are Bueckers and Ogunbowale. Bueckers is already the face of the franchise, and Ogunbowale is an All-Star talent that, at bare minimum, the Wings would want to have some level of control over if they decide to pivot in another direction. I personally think they should give their partnership another year, but you at least want to be in position to work through sign-and-trade possibilities versus losing Ogunbowale for nothing.
Aziaha James (#10) is among the Dallas options that the Fire or Tempo could choose from. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Sam Hodde via Getty Images
From there, you can go in multiple directions. I have them going frontcourt-heavy with Siegrist (bonafide bucket), Geiselsoder (huge fan of how many areas she can impact) and Kuier (former 2021 No. 2 pick who has shown real growth overseas and is only 24), but you could easily swap one or more out for the rookie guards (James, Quinerly) or the recently acquired Miller.
I didn’t realize it until I started typing here, but there’s literally a starting lineup of young prospects the Fire or Tempo could choose from. At bare minimum, all five are either under contract or have exclusive negotiating rights. Jones (versatility) and Quinerly (speed demon with shooting chops) would be my favorites from the group, but there’s plenty to like from the Dallas options.
All five players are cost/team-controlled assets in some way, with Burton (what a year) headlining the list. I had a tough time with Leite vs. Zandalasini for the last spot; Zandalasini’s unique combination of size and on-ball skill was pretty darn important for the Valkyries last year, but Leite’s drives and overall activity also popped in her minutes. Ultimately, youth won out — Leite turns 22 in a couple of weeks and has more years of team control, while Zandalasini (30) is up for a well-deserved raise this offseason.
Key targets: Cecilia Zandalasini, Kate Martin, Laeticia Amihere
Assuming she’s available, I would be shocked if Zandalasini wasn’t one of the early picks in this year’s expansion draft. She averaged 12.7 points on 67.3 true shooting across her 10 starts while operating as a reliable secondary creator within their offense.
Beyond that, Martin got to self-create more while doing her usual gap-filling and defending. The Amihere drives have always intrigued me; if she’s able to find a defensive coverage she’s comfortable with, there’s a real player in here.
Indiana Fever
Under contract: Aliyah Boston, Caitlin Clark, Makayla Timpson
UFA: Kelsey Mitchell, Natasha Howard, Sophie Cunningham, Aari McDonald, Damiris Dantas, Sydney Colson, Bri Turner
The Boston/Clark/Mitchell trio is one of the best in the league. With Boston and Clark on rookie contracts and Mitchell slated to test free agency if she isn’t cored, these are easy choices. Hull, an elite cutter and rugged defender coming off of another solid shooting season (36.7% on career high 3.4 attempts) is also an easy choice, especially when you consider she’s a restricted free agent.
I think Timpson gets the final nod. Her energy popped in limited minutes last season, and I wouldn’t be shocked to see her role grow with either a departure or minute reduction from veteran Natasha Howard. Her being on a rookie contract gives her an edge over currently better players like Howard, Aari McDonald, or Sophie Cunningham.
Key targets: Chloe Bibby, Kristy Wallace
McDonald and Cunningham are better players when healthy, but I think the cost/team-controlled context for Bibby and Wallace would make them more valuable targets. Bibby would be top billing for me; players her size generally don’t shoot as well or as willingly behind the arc as she does. She could accentuate the talents of whichever guards the Tempo or Fire select.
Las Vegas Aces
Under contract: Aaliyah Nye
UFA: A'ja Wilson, Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, Jewell Loyd, Dana Evans, Kiah Stokes, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, Megan Gustafson
RFA: NaLyssa Smith, Kierstan Bell
Likely protections: A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, Aaliyah Nye, NaLyssa Smith
Beyond that, these choices were easy. The Big Three were going to be protected, leaving us two spots for three cost or team-controlled assets (Nye, Smith, Bell). Nye’s on a rookie deal and could grow into one of the league’s best shooters, so she should be safe. After losing Kate Martin in the expansion draft last year, I’m willing to guarantee something like that doesn’t happen again.
It comes down to Smith and Bell, both playing key (starting) roles for the Aces as they completed an unprecedented midseason turnaround and ultimately won a championship. Smith’s size, rebounding, and supplementary scoring gives her the edge to me.
Key targets: Kierstan Bell
If it plays out that way, Bell (and her RFA rights) seems to be the easy choice. She’s had to mold herself into a space-cut-defend role player, but she’s more comfortable self-creating. On an expansion team, she may have more room to spread her wings.
There are better players available, like former All-Star Jewell Loyd, but with her not being core-eligible, the Fire or Tempo would have to ask themselves if they’re willing to offer max or, as it’s allowed, supermax money to Loyd. Ditto for Dana Evans, who would likely be a relatively high pick in the expansion draft (or outright protected by the Aces) if she wasn’t an unrestricted free agent.
Los Angeles Sparks
Under contract: Rickea Jackson, Cam Brink, Sarah Ashlee Barker, Sania Feagan
UFA: Kelsey Plum, Dearica Hamby, Azura Stevens, Emma Cannon
Four of these choices are easy: Plum and Hamby are the best players on the team, while Jackson and Brink are pretty easily the best and most valuable young players on the roster.
Azura Stevens (#23) could be a top target for the Fire or Tempo. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
Katelyn Mulcahy via Getty Images
From there, the Sparks have a decision to make. Do you protect the better player in Stevens, coming off a career year, or do you protect Burrell who seems primed to break out in a similar way?
I landed on Burrell. There’s real two-way wing potential as her decision-making improves. Her contract status makes her easier to retain than Stevens. There’s also the matter of Brink’s next steps; she made her return last season, but the Sparks may be ready to turn the center position over to her entirely.
Not only should Stevens be an easy selection for the Fire or Tempo if available, she should probably be one of the first two players taken. The list of bigs that can shoot, drive and pass the way she can is incredibly short.
Beyond that, we’ve already seen Vanloo serve as a bridge point guard for an expansion team. Feagan is an intriguing long-term prospect at the 5 that I wouldn’t mind taking the chance on.
Minnesota Lynx
Under contract: Dorka Juhász, Anastasiia Olairi Kosu
Keeping the Core Four and protecting Juhász, a skilled, cost-controlled big that may be slated for big minutes depending on how free agency goes, feel like relatively simple choices to make.
I had some internal debate about Carleton vs. Williams — Williams is the better player, but she is older and perhaps easier to move on from in light of the Lynx holding the No. 2 pick of this year’s draft (Olivia Miles, anyone?) and maybe looking for a different veteran flavor at that spot (I’d watch Skylar Diggins). Ultimately, a Carleton-Tempo connection may be inevitable.
Key targets: Bridget Carleton, Maria Kliundikova
Carleton would be core-eligible if selected, but you’d have to hope that dollar figure could be negotiated down in a longer-term deal. Either way, her ability to shoot, cut and defend at a high level makes her a fit just about anywhere.
Kliundikova became a reliable third-big option for the Lynx as the season went on. Her combination of size and skill popped; the fact that the Fire or Tempo would get exclusive negotiating rights for her could make her a more tantalizing option.
As mentioned earlier, Stewart being core-ineligible leaves the door open for New York to make a bet: pick her if you want, but she’s more likely to re-sign with us than sign a supermax with you. Considering she’s already announced that she’s coming back, I think it’s fair to assume New York will leave her unprotected so they could use that slot elsewhere.
Ionescu and Jones (also core-ineligible, but I wouldn’t play around with that) are easy choices, as is Leonie Fiebich. She’s cost-controlled, but more importantly, she’s already one of the best 3-and-D wings in the league (with some hidden creation chops that I’d like for her to explore more often). Getting a healthy Laney-Hamilton back should boost the Liberty on both ends, and, for what it’s worth, she is beloved there on and off the floor.
The last spot came down to veteran Natasha Cloud, who may love being in New York more than anyone else loves any singular thing, or the younger, cost-controlled Sabally. I went with the latter, though it’s worth noting the risk here. Cloud is eligible for the core designation; if someone like Vanloo provides value as a bridge point guard, Cloud — still an all-world defender with strong driving and playmaking chops — would fit the bill even more. Though as we saw with her trade to the Sun, bringing Cloud to a situation she doesn’t want to be in may not be worth the time.
With that said…
Key targets: Natasha Cloud, Raquel Carrera, Marine Johannes
I still select Cloud if she’s actually available. At best, you get a strong leader on and off the court that can help stabilize you on both ends of the court in the short term. In the “worst” case scenario, you use the core designation and then work out a trade. There’s a hint of shadiness there, but this is a business at the end of the day.
Beyond that, Carrera and Johannes are probably my favorite cost/team-controlled options from the list.
Protect your stars, protect Akoa-Makani (I am still annoyed she didn’t make the All-Rookie team), and protect one of the most underrated defenders in the league in Mack. There’s room to engage in light shenanigans; Copper is core-ineligible, so you could leave her unprotected if there’s faith (and by all counts, there should be) that she’s going to return to Phoenix no matter what. In that event, you could also protect one of the other reserved free agents.
If the Mercury do protect Copper, the Fire or Tempo should be happy selecting from this group.
Westbeld is quietly scheme-versatile as a defender, a willing screener and ball-mover, and isn’t afraid to pull from deep. Held fit nicely into Phoenix’s full-court pressure system, and also flashed real juice as a driver and open-shot maker. Laksa is an unabashed gunner from deep with nice positional size — you’d just need a strong defensive infrastructure around her.
Seattle Storm
Under contract: Dominique Malonga, Jordan Horston, Nika Muhl, Lexie Brown
Malonga and Horston should be safe because of their upside and years of team control. In terms of veterans, Diggins and Williams are 1) incredibly good at basketball and 2) aren’t worth the risk of upsetting if you don’t protect them. That leaves one spot open.
I think Ogwumike, like Stewart, falls under the “shenanigans” tab: she can’t be cored, and she’s likely to be back, so there’s no need to use a protection slot on her. This really boils down to Magbegor or Sykes, two players that, as of this writing, I’d predict will be playing elsewhere next season.
I landed on Magbegor. She’s the youngest of the two, and I think she’d garner more assets in a core-then-trade scenario than Sykes would.
Key targets: Brittney Sykes, Zia Cooke
If that’s the case, Sykes becomes the best or second-best player available in this year’s expansion draft. She’s a tremendous defender, an unrelenting driver, underrated playmaker and daredevil shot-taker.
Among the other candidates, I found myself impressed with Cooke’s buy-in defensively. It wasn’t always perfect, but her ball pressure and screen navigation was better than what we’ve been accustomed to. The bucket-getting potential will always be there; she feels like someone that could go later in the expansion draft and surprise some folks during the regular season if given the opportunity.
Protecting the Citron/Iriafen/Austin trio should be a no-brainer, even if you ultimately work out a sign-and-trade with Austin later in the offseason. From there, it’s two spots between six team/cost-controlled players.
I landed on the recently-acquired Sheldon (the Aaliyah Edwards-to-Connecticut trade) and last year’s No. 6 overall pick in Amoore. Amoore is worth real discussion here, though. She missed all of last season with a torn ACL; with the Mystics holding three first-round picks in this year’s draft (4, 9, 11), they could be in range for a top-tier point-guard prospect.
Though I don’t think it’s the likeliest outcome, there is a world where Awa Fam, Lauren Betts, and Azzi Fudd, in some order, are the first three picks. Are you passing up on Olivia Miles if you’re the Mystics? I sure wouldn’t. And if Miles is gone, you’re in range to take Kiki Rice or Raven Johnson if you view them highly enough.
Key targets: Emily Engstler, Sug Sutton
If Amoore is protected, I think Engstler and Sutton would be my top choices. Engstler is such a unique talent; so much so that teams haven’t really understood how (and how much) to use her. An expansion roster feels like an ideal context for her to be unleashed. Sutton is a more known quality; she’s getting downhill, getting to the midrange, and making your life miserable on the defensive end. Only 27 years old, there may be more to tap into there.
Stephen A. Smith is buying the Boston Celtics as the Eastern Conference's premier team entering the playoffs.
The Celtics put on another offensive clinic in Wednesday night's 147-129 win over the Miami Heat, shooting 58 percent from the floor. Jayson Tatum continued his remarkable recovery from an Achilles tear by registering 25 points, 18 rebounds and 11 assists in 37 minutes.
Their latest victory impressed Smith, who declared on ESPN's "First Take" that the East runs through Boston.
"At this particular moment in time, I don't think there's any question. When we look at the Eastern Conference, when we scour it, especially over the last few weeks, Boston looks like the most formidable team in the Eastern Conference because of Jayson Tatum's ascension," Smith said on Thursday morning. "... They are the team to beat in the Eastern Conference. I think everybody knows that."
Smith touted Jaylen Brown as a legitimate MVP candidate after the guard went 17-of-29 on Wednesday. The 29-year-old is now averaging a career-high 28.8 points per game this season.
"He is playing like an MVP," Smith said of Brown. "Dropped 43 last night, had 20 in the first quarter. The brother's special. There ain't no question about it. And he plays on both ends because he defends as well as scores."
Smith noted that the Celtics are 10-2 in games Tatum has played since last month's return. Despite a career-low 40.2 field-goal percentage, the All-Star is still making a huge impact with 21.3 points and 9.8 rebounds per game.
The ESPN personality also praised Payton Pritchard's production off the bench and called Derrick White a "reliable commodity." While the Celtics boast depth around Brown and Tatum, Smith questioned who will shoulder the scoring workload for the Detroit Pistons if Cade Cunningham can't return from a collapsed lung.
"That is not a problem the Boston Celtics have," Smith said. "And that's not a problem that you need come playoff time. One guy scoring rarely does it for you."
Details of Kirk Cousins’ deal with the Las Vegas Raiders surfaced on Thursday, shortly after he agreed to join the AFC West franchise in free agency.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Cousins will make $20 million fully guaranteed in 2026, with a bevy of nuances to the deal. It's structured as a five-year, $172 million deal, but practically, it's a one-year deal worth $20 million.
Comp update: Kirk Cousins will sign a five-year, $172 million deal with the Raiders that in reality is a one-year, fully-guaranteed $20 million deal that also contains a club option for two years at $80M.
Cousins is anticipated to be in the running for the Raiders’ starting job at quarterback next season, even with the franchise expected to select Indiana’s Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The 37-year-old Cousins is approaching his 15th season in the NFL in 2026. Cousins recorded 1,721 yards as well as 10 touchdowns in 2025 with the Atlanta Falcons. He showed himself to still be effective as a starter as recently as in 2024, when he completed 66.9 percent of his passes for 3,508 yards across 14 games played, all of which he started for the Falcons.
Vic Schaefer, Rori Harmon and the Longhorns have found their way back to the Final Four. This time, it’s the UCLA Bruins standing in their way of what would be the first trip to the National Championship under Schaefer. The good news for the Longhorns is they handed the Bruins their sole loss of the season, beating them 76-65 and controlling much of the game. If the Longhorns are going to repeat that performance, it’ll take another elite defensive performance.
UCLA By The Numbers
35-1 Overall, 18-0 in B1G Play
Points Per Game: 84.9 - 7th in the country
Points Allowed Per Game: 56.6 - 21st in the country
Three Point Percentage: 36.8 - 9th in the country
Bruins To Watch
C Lauren Betts: This is not only the Bruins best player but one of the best players in the country. Betts is averaging 17.2 points per game and 8.6 rebounds a game, while also racking up 2 blocks a game. She is a force on the interior, meaning Kyla Oldacre and Breya Cunningham will have to step up defensively. Betts only mustered 8 points against the Horns the first time around but you’d imagine she’ll be more aggressive this time around. That being said, the first fame is proof: you slow down #51 for the Bruins, you have a good shot to make it to the title game.
G Kiki Rice: The leader of the Bruins backcourt and the player that you’ll see on the floor more than any other is Kiki Rice. Rice is averaging a shade over 15 points per game and is the true offensive engine for the Bruins. She struggled from the field against Texas the first time around but finished with 17 points. Rice has only been held in single digits three times this year, once against Duke in the Elite Eight. Rori Harmon and Bryanna Preston will have to be up to the challenge and slow down the maestro of this offense.
G Gabriela Jaquez: This might be the toughest player to defend on the Bruins. Jaquez averages 13.4 points per game, but shoots over 54% from the field and nearly 40% from three point. She creates remarkable amounts of space for this offense and allows Betts to dominate down low. In the first matchup, Jaquez had just 4 points on 2-4 shooting from the field, finding herself in foul trouble throughout the game. She’s been solid as can be in the tournament, racking up at least 9 points and 5 rebounds in every game. She’s unlikely to score 30 points but she can make big time shots all around the floor.
G Gianna Kneepkens: As if this team needed more shooting, Kneepkens is the player that could become a UCLA legend on Friday. Kneepkens made her way to Los Angeles from Utah and has shot the lights out from day one. She’s averaging 12.8 points per game shooting 50% from the field, 93% from the free throw line and 43% from three point land. She is a true flamethrower that Texas can’t allow to get going. She found her groove in the first bout, scoring 17 points, hitting 7-11 from the field and 3-6 from three. Whoever gets this assignment better be ready to pick Kneepkens up at half court and not let up until they're heading the other direction.
Overall
This UCLA team only has one loss for a reason. They have one of the most dominant forces on the interior in the game, Lauren Betts. Kiki Rice and Gabriela Jaquez are experienced, smart guards that run the offense very well. Gianna Kneepkens is a true flamethrower from outside that can turn this game upside down if Texas lets her. Finally, Angela Dugalic and Charlisse Leger-Walker both bring scoring ability to the bench and will be a factor in this one.
The Longhorns have to feel confident after their double-digit win over the Bruins earlier in the season. That being said, UCLA has that game on their mind and they’d love to get revenge on the biggest stage. Kyla Oldacre and Breya Cunningham need to avoid foul trouble against Betts, Rori Harmon and Madison Booker need to continue their elite play and Jordan Lee needs to find her rhythm from distance. If all of that happens, the Longhorns will have a chance to win their first national title in 40 years on Sunday.
New footage of Tiger Woods’ arrest has been released.
TMZ shared the video on Thursday, April 2, and it showed the golf pro kneeling on the grass and speaking to officers who responded to the accident. Authorities asked him if he was “comfortable” in that position, and he said he was.
“I looked down at my phone … and all of a sudden – boom,” Woods, 50, said in the clip.
While the Masters champion insisted he was fine after crashing his Range Rover, the police officer said that medical professionals would still check him for injuries.
Law enforcement also spoke with the truck driver, who said he was trying to turn into a driveway but couldn’t move out of the way in time. He wasn’t injured, although he was unsure if the damaged trailer could be driven from the scene.
As Globe previously reported, Woods was arrested and charged with DUI on March 27. According to police reports, he appeared “lethargic and slow” after the crash, was sweating excessively and had “extremely dilated” pupils.
Martin County/MEGA
While he blew a 0.0 on a breathalyzer test and claimed he hadn’t consumed any alcohol or illegal substances, Page Six obtained an arrest affidavit from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office that stated officers “located two white pills inside [his] left side pant pocket.” The affidavit said they were later “revealed to be hydrocodone.”
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he wrote in a statement shared via X later that same day. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”
March 17, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama batter Ambrey Taylor connects with a pitch at Rhoads Stadium as the Crimson Tide hosted the University of Louisiana at Monroe. | Gary Cosby Jr. / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
“If you come for the king, you best not miss.“ ~Omar Little, ‘The Wire’
Last April, the Crimson Tide welcomed in the #2 Oklahoma Sooners into Tuscaloosa for the first time ever and took two of three against the 4-time defending National Champions. This year’s Bama squad is in a similar situation. Will there be a comparable outcome in the impending series with 2026 champ Texas? The results could define this team.
ACCOLADES
Nope.
RAT POISON IS BACK
The Tide’s rise in the polls probably has less to do with how they performed last weekend than how others did. It’s more likely a product of Tennessee losing two of three to Ole Miss in Knoxville and Florida dropping a pair at Arkansas. Both dipped behind Bama.
Game 1 will be available on SECN+ Streaming (ESPN+). Game 2 will air on the SEC Network and the finale will be carried by ESPN.
WEATHER
It should be nice in Tuscaloosa with temperatures in the 80s with partly cloudy skies.
TEXAS (31-2)
The Longhorns just suffered only their second defeat of the season in a 9-7 Austin loss to #15 Texas A&M to snap a 29-game win streak. It was the Horns’ first conference and home loss of the season.
UT’s only other setback of 2026 came in San Antonio when they split a pair with #5 Nebraska in the first weekend of the season. Among their conquests this season are Washington (twice), Arizona (twice), Stanford, South Carolina (3-game sweep), Ole Miss (3-game sweep), Baylor (twice), and Texas A&M (2 of 3).
Alabama holds the all-time record advantage over Texas with 7 wins versus 2 defeats. The two teams have not met since 2023 — back when many of the Tide players were picking out prom dresses.
THROW THE BALL
Texas has a top 10 pitching staff with an ERA at 2.23. However, they were bombarded with 19 runs by the Aggies in this past weekend’s three game set. The ‘Horns have five pitchers but rely mostly on three. Teagan Kavan (13-1) carries most of the load. In three seasons, the junior is 61-9 overall and was outstanding in her team’s run to the 2025 National Championship. This year, she has been mostly solid but was rocked by Texas A&M for 18 hits and 13 runs in her two starts (1-1).
Freshman Hannah Wells and sophomore Cambria Salmon (sounds like a dish at a hoity fusion restaurant) are worthy contributors as well. Wells (5-1, 2.03 ERA) was the Gatorade National Player of the Year as a senior in 2025 and has not disappointed in her first year in Austin. However with only 6 starts, she has only thrown for more than four innings on three occasions and has never gone more than 5.2. She gave up three homers in the loss to Nebraska but has not given up one since that day in early February. Similarly, Salmon (5-0, 2.12) has tossed over four innings only twice and has no complete games. Citlaly Gutierrez (5-0, 2.44) may also make an appearance or two. The only lefty on the staff is Brenlee Gonzales (2-0, 1.66) though she has only pitched in 5 games.
TL/DR: Kavan shoulders most of the work, but UT us not shy about going to the bullpen.
HIT THE BALL
The Longhorns are top 10 in the nation in runs scored with 8.7 per game. Katie Stewart is having an All-American season, hitting .471 with 17 home runs and 44 RBI. She is second in the conference in homers, BA, slugging (1.110), and on-base percentage (.600). Kayden Henry is at .427 with 52 runs scored (2nd in SEC) and 15 doubles (No. 1 in SEC), plus 21 of 22 in stolen bases (No. 1). Reese Atwood is batting .393 with 14 round-trippers and 44 RBI. Leighann Goode is hitting .442 with 35 runs and 5 four-baggers.
Eight of the everyday players are hitting over .300. The ninth is Hannah Wells (.273, 6 HR, 22 RBI) who plays first base when she is not pitching.
TL/DR: They can hit. A lot.
CATCH THE BALL
Texas had three errors in the TAMU finale and four for the series (none for the Aggs). Those boots put them at an unsatisfactory .966 fielding percentage — which is around 100th in the nation and near the bottom in the SEC. Their 29 errors almost come to one per game. Alabama has 14 with a .984 FP.
In Sunday’s finale against TAMU, Tejas head coach Mike White was ejected for arguing over balls and strikes. More likely, he was trying to fire up his team, down 6-3. The tactic backfired as the UT defense immediately committed two errors that plated three more runs in the inning.
TEN CENT ANALYSIS
Texas has been at the top or near the top of the polls all year long. They have been mowing over opponents, but it’s curious as to if Mike White has overused/over-relied on his ace Teagan Kavan a little too much. Is she starting to wear down? She has thrown 89.0 innings at this point and was hit pretty hard in her last three SEC starts.
The Crimson Tide has an advantage of playing at home. If they can continue the stellar defense plus home run hitting, and if Alabama pitching staff can keep up their solid run, Bama might just take this series. But a sweep might be a tall order.
Two years ago, the Atlanta Falcons took a couple of big risks at the quarterback position. While there's still time to turn things around for one of them, right now it appears that both moves are going to age very poorly.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Falcons stunned everybody by taking Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr., despite his history of knee injuries. It was a huge surprise after Atlanta had already signed veteran Kirk Cousins to a massive four-year, $180 million max deal just the month before.
Fast forward 24 months and Penix is recovering from yet another ACL tear. Meanwhile, Cousins will be suiting up for the Las Vegas Raiders after the Falcons released him. They will still be paying Cousins $8.7 million this season for the pleasure of playing for somebody else.
Thanks in no small part to the Falcons' largesse, Cousins is about to make NFL-business history. According to Field Yates at ESPN, he will soon pass Tom Brady as the second-highest paid player in league history.
When accounting for the $20M fully guaranteed money Kirk Cousins will now make, he will soon pass Tom Brady for the second-most money made by a player in NFL history.
The man is a first ballot Hall of Famer in the business of the NFL 💰💰💰 https://t.co/eNdja9b5yf
All together, Cousins appeared in 24 games with the Falcons, posting 5,229 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, 21 interceptions and an 87.2 passer rating. For his trouble Cousins earned $100 million from the franchise.
MassLive’s Fenway Insider Sean McAdam hosted a live mailbag Thursday at 12 p.m. and highlighted the latest news from the Boston Red Sox.
Throughout the mailbag, McAdam and MassLive sports reporter Lauren Campbell discussed the Red Sox’ slow start to the 2026 season, whether it’s time to panic, if it’s too early to start talking about personnel changes and more.
When Mike LaFleur took the job as the Arizona Cardinals’ new head coach, the Los Angeles Rams turned to a familiar face to become the team’s new offensive coordinator.
The Rams promoted former pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase to offensive coordinator in February.
Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Scheelhaase joined the Rams’ coaching staff ahead of the 2024 season. He worked alongside LaFleur for two seasons, so he is expected to be a similar offensive coordinator to LaFleur.
At the NFL’s Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona, LaFleur gave his opinion on the Rams promoting Scheelhaase to offensive coordinator. He said Scheelhaase is prepared to be a strong offensive coordinator for Los Angeles.
“I’ve been on record there in L.A. a lot just talking about what I feel in Nate Scheelhaase, so that was a no-brainer,” LaFleur said on Monday, via the Rams. “Obviously, he’s prepped for that. He sat in with Sean and I in a handful of game planning (meetings) and stuff like that, so he kind of knows what that 3 a.m. wake up call looks like Wednesday through Friday.”
“But he’s a stud of a coach. He’s a better person. He’s a better connector than he is even a coach, and that’s strong, and he’s going to do a great job for them… His future is obviously really bright,” LaFleur added.
Puka Nacua Said Scheelhaase Is A Good Communicator
In addition to receiving praise from LaFleur, Scheelhaase has impressed multiple Rams players, including star wide receiver Puka Nacua. Scheelhaase has been part of the Rams’ coaching staff for two of the three seasons Nacua has been on the team.
Nacua explained that one of Scheelhaase’s strengths is his ability to be a calm communicator in tense moments.
“His ability to communicate to us in a calm demeanor and the demeanor that helps us have success on Sundays is something that you don’t take for granted because you know that in the heat of the moment the ability to communicate is so needed,” Nacua said, per the Rams. “He does a great job of keeping his cool and then being able to communicate the message clear and precise so we can go out there and execute.”
Nacua will be playing on the final season of his four-year rookie contract in 2026. He is projected to earn a big contract in the near future, and the Rams want to keep him around long-term.
Most March Madness appearances without a championship
30 (Purdue Boilermakers)
Odds of a No. 16 seed pulling off an upset
1 in 150
Odds of a perfect March Madness bracket
1 in 9.2 quintillion
Most Final Four appearances
21 (North Carolina)
Most March Madness championships by a coach
10 (John Wooden)
Most March Madness career wins by a coach
97 (Mike Krzyzewski)
Most career points scored during March Madness
407 (Christian Laettner, Duke)
Most points scored in a March Madness game
61 (Austin Carr, Notre Dame)
Placing your Final Four bets shouldn't feel harder than breaking a full court press. Check out our listing of the best March Madness betting sites to discover the most reliable and trustworthy sportsbooks available.
The impossible decision over Enzo that Liam Rosenior faces in press conference
Liam Rosenior faces a huge challenge in tomorrow’s press conference when asked about the events of the international break.
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We’re so close now to another Chelsea press conference and another game, ending this hellish international week of bad news and bad vibes at Stamford Bridge.
Liam Rosenior is going to have to navigate an extremely trick press conference tomorrow. He’s under massive pressure after a run of bad results, his future is already being questioned, and since his last presser two senior players from his leadership group have cast doubt over their future at the club and over the “project” that is now defining Chelsea.
To make things worse, given we’re playing Port Vale on Saturday, every journalist in the house is going to be focused on the macro picture rather than the opposition or the game itself.
Rosenior faces tough press conference challenge
The well spoken and intelligent new Chelsea boss has talked himself into trouble a number of times already since taking over in January, and tomorrow’s presser will be his biggest challenge yet. He’s had some time to prepare for this one, but that won’t make it much easier.
His instinct will be to brush the comments aside – but fans will want to see some criticism for the players, especially Enzo Fernandez, for his damaging words at a crucial time.
Report – Barcelona Must Offload Several First-Team Stars Before Pursuing Inter Milan Star Defender
La Liga giants Barcelona are ready to do everything to complete the signing of Inter Milan stalwart Alessandro Bastoni this summer.
According to Sky Sport De via FCInterNews, Hansi Flick’s charges cannot pursue the Italian’s signature before offloading several first-team stars.
Los Blaugranas have earmarked Alessandro Bastoni as their top target ahead of the summer transfer window.
However, Inter have already slapped a substantial €70 million price tag on their out-of-sorts star.
Despite Bastoni’s recent turmoil, the San Siro powerhouse won’t let their defensive cornerstone leave without a fight.
Meanwhile, the player’s stance on a potential summer exit remains uncertain.
Barcelona Must Raise Funds for Alessandro Bastoni Transfer from Player Sales
It’s no secret that Barcelona cannot afford to match Inter’s whopping asking price.
Therefore, Flick’s men are evaluating various strategies to convince the Nerazzurri to lower their demands.
Indeed, they’re considering offering star midfielder Dani Olmo as a counterpart in what would be a high-profile player-plus-cash swap deal.
However, the runaway Serie A leaders have no interest in entertaining swap proposals, remaining steadfast on their massive €70 million valuation for Bastoni.
As such, Barcelona may have to offload several fringe players to generate the necessary funds for the deal.
A 300-1 shot at Kelso has equalled the UK racing record for longest-priced winner.
Making her British debut in the two-mile novice hurdle after two bumper runs in Ireland, Crokes Cross finished strongly under Jamie Hamilton to earn trainer Stuart Coltherd his first success since March 2025 in spectacular fashion.
Stablemate Changemyluck (5-2) was a length and a quarter back in second place in the 10-horse race.
It was only in December when the Nigel Hawke-trained Blowers won at the same price at Exeter, beating the previous record of 250-1, set by Equinoctial in 1990 - also at Kelso.
Coltherd told Racing TV: "I never had a penny on. I wish I had!
"I knew they were both fit and I fancied them both to run well. I thought Changemyluck would be there or thereabouts, but Crokes Cross has done it well.
"I couldn't say what has been going wrong. We just had horses maybe too high in the handicap. We had lots placed, they just weren't getting their head in front.
"If I knew it was going to change today, I might have had a couple of pounds on! It's good for everybody to get another winner.
"When they were going down and I saw she was 300-1, I did think that was a huge price as she works well at home – it's too late now."
Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Ja'Sir Taylor (36) breaks up a deep pass attempt to Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 11 game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. The Chargers won 34-27. | Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Cincinnati Bengals have signed unrestricted free agent cornerback Ja’Sir Taylor to a one-year contract for the 2026 season, the team announced on Thursday.
Taylor, weighing in at 5-10 and 185 pounds, is a fifth-year player out of Wake Forest. He was originally a sixth-round pick of the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2022 NFL Draft. He played in 57 games for the Chargers before being traded in November 2025 to the New York Jets, where he played in eight games.
In 65 career regular-season games (12 starts), Taylor has recorded 76 tackles, one tackle for loss, 15 pass deflections, one interception, and one fumble recovery on defense to go with 21 tackles on special teams. He finished last season with a 41.1 Pro Football Focus grade after registering a 56.7 grade in 2024.
With this signing, the Bengals now likely have their Marco Wilson replacement but won’t be deterred from spending a high draft pick on a corner when the 2026 NFL Draft kicks off in three weeks.
As the interview was wrapping up, Greg Hill thanked Maye on behalf of the entire New England region for saving the Patriots. The 23-year-old quarterback responded in a way that is sure to get fans excited for the future.
"I wouldn't say all that. We got some work to do," said Maye.
That sounds like a young quarterback who still isn't satisfied with the way the 2025 season ended, even though it was a remarkable turnaround for the team.
After finishing the previous two seasons with a 4-13 record, the Patriots won the AFC East division and earned the second overall seed in the playoffs with a 14-3 record last season. They ultimately defeated the Los Angeles Chargers, Houston Texans and Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game to get to Super Bowl LX, where they fell short against the Seattle Seahawks in a 29-13 loss.
With that said, the team clearly exceeded expectations.
But Maye's goal is ultimately to win championships, and the 2025 NFL MVP runner-up expects more from himself in big games. The fact that he isn't satisfied is a good sign for Patriots fans.
The bar will be set even higher for the Patriots after winning the AFC Championship and advancing to the Super Bowl last season. But nothing is higher than the bar that Maye has obviously set for himself in Year 3.
In two seasons at Providence, the Nigeria native averaged 6.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, and 0.5 assists in 65 games. Erhunmwunse scored in double figures in nine of his 33 games this season. The 6’10” forward was Providence‘s seventh-leading scorer, and led the team in rebounding and blocks this year.
The sophomore forward hits the Portal as Providence basketball heads into a new era. After three seasons at the helm, head coach Kim English and the program parted ways after the Friars posted a 15-18 (7-13) record this season and failed to make the NCAA Tournament. Across three seasons, English led the program to a 48-52 (23-37) record with no NCAA Tournament appearances.
Providence is heading into new era under head coach Bryan Hodgson
To replace English, Providence quickly agreed to terms on a five-year deal with USF head coach Bryan Hodgson. In his lone season at the program, Hodgson led the Bulls to a 25-9 (15-3) record and their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2012. He previously served as head coach at Arkansas State (2023-25).
“Providence got themselves a proven winner,” Alabama head coach Nate Oats said in a statement. “Bryan is a rising star in the business. He plays a modern, high-octane, hard-playing, tough style of basketball. He’s relentless on the recruiting trail, plays a style that elite level players love to play in, and knows how to connect with his players.
“In just three years as a head coach, Bryan delivered conference championships at Arkansas State and South Florida. His brand of basketball wins! Bryan will bring a winning brand of basketball to Providence that the community will love to watch.”
The Olean, NY native rose to prominence as a member of Oats’ staff at Alabama. Hodgson spent four seasons with the Crimson Tide (2019-23), helping lead the program to a 92-42 record and two Sweet Sixteen appearances. He has been tabbed as one of the fastest rising coaches in the sport, and that has resulted in the job at Providence.
Providence is desperately seeking a turnaround under Hodgson, as it has not made the NCAA Tournament since 2023. Oswin Erhunmwunse, however, will not be sticking around for the rebuild.
Joe Gibbs Racing wants the Western District of North Carolina Court to compel Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports to immediately produce any documents related to deleted text messages to each other but also a third-party subpoena to get those deleted communications from the cell phone service providers.
“The nature and significance of the irreparable harm JGR is experiencing cannot be overstated. Gabehart has repeatedly admitted to taking JGR’s trade secrets, and has admitted to deleting communications responsive to the narrow scope of discovery the Court permitted to determine if he used or disclosed those trade secrets. Once a trade secret is lost it is lost forever, and ‘the potential for the loss of trade secrets . . . demonstrates irreparable harm.’”
That is the current state of affairs in the JGR v Spire and Gabehart lawsuit, in which the plaintiffs believe they have reasons to suspect that proprietary information taken by its former competition director is being used by the defendants this season in the NASCAR Cup Series.
JGR is suing Gabehart, now the Chief Motorsports Officer at Spire, for over eight million dollars while also compelling Judge Susan C. Rodriguez to move the legal process in along in way to determine the scope of potential damages.
For example, there is no disputing that Gabehart continued to access proprietary JGR files even after having a conversation with team owner Joe Gibbs on November 6 that resulted in an understanding that it would ‘be best to part ways.’
The next day, Gabehart took at least 20 photographs of confidential team information. He accessed a 'Spire' folder on his Personal Google Drive, which was synced with his Gibbs provided computer on November 12, 14 and 15. Gabehart, through his attorney, has since apologized for doing so and conceded it was 'stupid' and that he's 'embarrassed' and 'regrets it.'
Meanwhile, Gabehart believes JGR breached their contract first by timely refusing to pay him bonuses earned but also agreed upon financial amounts during the separation period. Gibbs has argued in court ‘why would we continue to pay someone who is stealing from us’ with an allegation that Gabehart was having conversation with Spire leadership as early as October.
Spire maintains it never asked Gabehart for trade secrets nor does it want it due to its technical alliance with Hendrick Motorsports. Spire has produced contracts and declarations that Gabehart signed nondisclosure agreements with the team upon his formal addition to the group.
Nevertheless, the court ordered expedited discovery, albeit limited in scope, relative to the issue of job communications between Gabehart and Spire co-owners Jeff Dickerson and Dan Towriss.
During that process, Gabehart disclosed he had deleted text messages with Dickerson prior to November 15, under the conviction that the matter would never be litigated in court. Dickerson disclosed he has perpetually used an auto-delete function for his text messages, including conversations with Gabehart, and that feature was not turned off until February 26.
What text message Gabehart did produce shows Dickerson sending a draft of a lawsuit response that hadn’t been filed yet, plausibly indicating that Spire leadership anticipated legal action even before the autodelete feature was deactivated.
Joe Gibbs Racing also claims that it called Dickerson on December 3 to warn them of tortious interference and that they had 90 days to cure or address Gabehart’s concerns. Gabehart says that was voided upon a lack of payment. JGR says the paychecks stopped when Gabehart ceased providing services to them and when he may have potentially began providing services to Spire.
For example, Gabehart was already allegedly making Spire focus plans on official Spire letterheads by November 25.
Anyway, Joe Gibbs Racing is asking the court to allow for additional expedited discovery beyond what it already received because it wants to know as soon as possible if its information is being used by other teams this season. Judge Rodriguez, in her words, has been reluctant to grant a fishing expedition in the absence of proof right now that JGR trade secrets are being used by Spire.
So JGR is asking the following of the court:
Third-party subpoena to Dickerson requesting production of all: (a) communications with Gabehart about employment or potential employment with Spire; (b) all documents referring to or referencing Gabehart’s employment or potential employment with Spire; (c) all documents or communications referring to or relating to JGR’s Confidential Information and Trade Secrets; and (d) all documents and data relating to activation and deactivation of autodelete features;
Requests for production of documents on Spire requesting production of all: (a) Dickerson’s communications with Gabehart about employment or potential employment with Spire; (b) all communications and documents referring to or referencing Gabehart’s employment or potential employment with Spire; (c) all communications with Gabehart referring to or relating to JGR’s Confidential Information and Trade Secrets; (d) all documents relating to document retention policies and activation and deactivation of autodelete features; and (e) all data indicating when the autodelete feature(s) were activated on Dickerson’s Devices;
Third-party subpoenas to Gabehart’s and Dickerson’s telephone providers requesting production of records reflecting Gabehart’s and Dickerson’s text messages and phone calls for the time period of October 1, 2025 through March 13, 2026;
Third-party subpoenas to Joe Custer, Justin Marks, Todd Meredith, Rick Ware, a Tommy Baldwin for communications with Dickerson referencing or relating to JGR’s Confidential Information and Trade Secrets; and
Court ordered forensic review of Dickerson’s cell phone(s), tablet(s) and computer(s) (collectively, “Devices”) to determine: (a) if text messages responsive to JGR’s Requests for Production of Documents to Gabehart are recoverable from those devices; and (b) when the autodelete function(s) on any of Dickerson’s Devices were activated.
This is the second time that Joe Gibbs Racing has motioned the court for subpoenas against Custer, Marks, Meredith, Ware and Baldwin and the judge asked for evidence that this was anything more than a fishing expedition.
The only provided reason JGR offers this time is that these Chevrolet affiliated principles are the most reasonable individuals Dickerson would have communicated with over any trade secrets acquired from JGR.
“Through bad acts, negligence, or a combination of both, communications relevant to this dispute have been deleted. JGR should be permitted to serve these narrow and limited subpoenas to only a few recipients to ensure other relevant communications are not deleted by individuals not involved in this litigation, which is now the most efficient way to ensure highly relevant communications are preserved.”
Mostly, what this filing wants addressed, comes down to the deleted text messages for reasons Joe Gibbs Racing made below.
“So then, why would messages be proactively deleted? Gabehart has not provided any justification or account of his decision to delete text messages with Dickerson on November 15, 2025 and Dickerson’s purported automatic deletion practice, at a minimum, calls into question his retention of relevant material at a time when he should have taken measures to secure it. Thus, the complete unavailability of messages between two critical actors in this dispute prior to November 15, 2025 begs the immediate question of ‘why?’ The most plausible inference is that the texts were deleted to conceal misconduct. Given Gabehart’s admitted theft of JGR’s Confidential Information and Trade Secrets three days earlier, and the fact that he was communicating with the person for whose benefit Gabehart stole the information, the most plausible inference is that the misconduct was related to this stolen information.”
The complete filing can be read in its entirety below.
Apr 1, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; New York Mets left fielder Juan Soto (22) reacts after hitting a solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
MLB regular season action continues on Thursday night, with six teams set to suit up for a highly anticipated three-game slate. Some of baseball's biggest stars, including Ronald Acuna Jr. and Juan Soto, will take the national stage for Thursday's slate, presenting some of the most popular PrizePicks props of the week thus far. Soto and Acuna are shining to start the year, but several other players could help PrizePicks users cash in on Thursday night. Let's look at five of the top PrizePicks plays for tonight's matchups:
Juan Soto Over 1.5 Hits+Runs+RBIs
Apr 1, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; New York Mets left fielder Juan Soto (22) hits a solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
Soto has been on a tear to open his 2026 campaign, playing a crucial role in the New York Mets' 3-3 start to the season. Through six games, Soto is hitting .346, racking up nine hits, two doubles, a home run and five RBIs. He's racked up at least one hit in each game to start the year, a trend that projects to continue against a struggling San Francisco Giants defense. He's averaging 2.1 Hits/Runs/RBIs per game and will carry his recent momentum into Thursday night's matchup.
Bobby Witt Jr. Over 0.5 Hits
After dropping back-to-back games to open the year, the Kansas City Royals have rebounded in a big way, racking up wins in each of their last three games. Bobby Witt Jr. has played a key role in a red-hot Royals offense, hitting a respectable .278 from the plate with five hits in as many games. He's posted at least one hit in four of Kansas City's first five contests and will look to extend his production from the plate against a struggling Minnesota Twins squad. Witt should continue his hit surge on Thursday night, presenting a favorable line for PrizePicks users.
Taj Bradley Over 4.0 Strikeouts
Mar 28, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Minnesota Twins pitcher Taj Bradley (26) delivers during the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. | Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images
Twins starter Taj Bradley is slated to make his second start of the year coming off a dominant performance in his season debut. The 25-year-old racked up nine strikeouts in 4.1 innings, allowing just three hits and one run during his stretch on the mound. Entering Thursday's game against the Royals, many are expecting Bradley to build on his stellar opener, presenting an immensely favorable line of just four strikeouts. His prop is the most popular of Thursday's slate, with over 12 thousand bets at the time of publishing.
Kyle Isbel Over 0.5 Singles
Reverting to Kansas City's hot start, the team has noticed a strong performance from outfielder Kyle Isbel. Isbel is hitting at an eyebrow-raising .571 mark over four games, posting eight hits, four runs, two homers and four RBIs to this point of the season. He's coming off a dominant four-hit game against the Twins on Wednesday, and should carry such momentum into the third game of the series on Thursday. Users should feel tremendous optimism in his 0.5 singles PrizePicks mark for today's matchup.
Fantasy Bundesliga tips: 10 players to consider for Matchday 28
In this Fantasy Bundesliga article, we’ll highlight 10 players to consider adding to your team ahead of Matchday 28.
As a rule of thumb, we'll try to steer clear of the most obvious picks, instead focusing mainly on players who could offer great value as differentials.
Derrick Köhn, Union Berlin (Defender, 1.53M, 0%)
Köhn may have scored just 18 points in his last game before the international break, but that came against FC Bayern. With an appealing run of fixtures coming up, facing St. Pauli, Heidenheim and Wolfsburg in his next three – he's one of the most appealing budget options. Köhn is his team’s free-kick taker and would likely take penalties as well. He took the most recent one against Werder Bremen, even with Leopold Querfeld, who took the previous penalties, on the pitch.
Kevin Diks, Gladbach (Defender, 3.69M, 1%)
Another penalty-taking defender, Diks has a favourable home match against 1. FC Heidenheim. The centre-back showed his scoring potential with a 335-point haul against Union Berlin on Matchday 24 and could deliver a similar return if things go his way.
After missing last time out due to suspension, Tapsoba returns to the starting eleven for Bayer Leverkusen at home against struggling Wolfsburg. Averaging 232 points per game, the Burkina Faso international has been consistent this season and will aim to maintain that form.
Kevin Stöger, Gladbach (Midfielder, 2.99M, 0%)
Stöger starred for Gladbach in their 2-0 win over St. Pauli on Matchday 26, scoring a stunning free-kick and earning 266 points. With a similar must-win home fixture against Heidenheim coming up, he could once again be key for his side.
Lennart Karl, FC Bayern (Midfielder, 3.32M, 4%)
With Musiala still working on his return to full fitness and Kane picking up a knock over the international break, Karl is expected to start against Freiburg. At this price, he offers excellent potential.
Ibrahim Maza, Leverkusen (Midfielder, 6.5M, 5%)
Maza has been one of Leverkusen’s most creative players this season, and with Aleix Garcia suspended, the 20-year-old should have plenty of opportunities to dictate play in a game Leverkusen will look to dominate.
With five goals and six assists in 24 games this season, Vieira has delivered consistently strong Fantasy returns. Even in the tough away clash against Borussia Dortmund before the international break, he racked up a respectable 158 points after setting up a goal. Now, with HSV hosting an Augsburg side coming off three consecutive defeats, the Portuguese international could make a significant impact once again – and his ownership is at just 5 percent currently.
Haris Tabakovic, Gladbach (Striker, 4.61M, 5%)
Gladbach’s main goal threat, Tabakovic scored a crucial goal over the international to help Bosnia & Herzegovina qualify for the World Cup at the expense of Italy. That confidence boost should serve him well heading into the home clash against relegation-threatened Heidenheim.
Schick also enjoyed international success, helping Czechia qualify for the World Cup. Now he’ll be unleashed at home against Wolfsburg, a game likely to provide plenty of goal-scoring opportunities for the experienced forward.
Serge Gnabry, FC Bayern (Striker, 12.81M, 4%)
After scoring a brace in Bayern’s 4-0 win over Union just before the international break, Gnabry is expected to start again. With Kane a doubt and Nicolas Jackson suspended, he could even play up front.
Konnor Griffin, the undisputed number one prospect in baseball, officially got his call to the big show today. The 19-year-old phenom will make his highly anticipated MLB debut at the Pittsburgh Pirates’ home opener on Friday.
His minor league resume leading up to this moment is nothing short of video-game numbers. In just five games in AAA this season, Griffin averaged .438 with a staggering 1.196 OPS. Even more impressive? Across the four different minor league teams he suited up for on his rapid ascent, he never batted below a .325 average. He’s finally getting the chance to show the rest of the world exactly why he earned that number-one ranking.
As for me? I have regrets.
The Mistake
Griffin’s highly coveted 1st Bowman card was released in the 2024 Bowman Draft set. At the time, he was one of the absolute top chases in the product, headlining a loaded class alongside guys like Travis Bazzana, Jac Caglianone, and Cam Smith.
During the initial release hype, I got incredibly lucky. I managed to hit two Konnor Griffin 1st Bowman Autographs.
And then, regrettably, I sold them shortly thereafter for around $150 for the pair.
Looking at the market today is a tough pill to swallow. A single PSA 10 of that exact base autograph is today selling for almost $2,000. If you’re lucky enough to hold a low-numbered parallel version of Griffin’s 1st Bowman auto, you are sitting on an asset that is currently moving for upwards of $25,000 on the secondary market.
In the sports card hobby, it is a well-known fact that the “best” time to sell a prospect is the week he gets called up to the majors. That’s peak hype. That’s not to say a card will never increase in price after a debut, but when a 19-year-old is already priced by the market as if he’s guaranteed to be the next Aaron Judge or Shohei Ohtani, those are almost impossibly big shoes to fill.
Knowing exactly when to sell a prospect card is brutal. It’s an inexact science.
Not everyone who gets a 1st Bowman card even makes it to the majors.
Of those who do make it, even fewer manage to stay there.
And a fraction of that group actually becomes All-Stars.
Furthermore, with over 100 prospects featured in each release of Bowman Draft, figuring out who to invest your money in can feel like throwing a dart at the wall with your eyes closed and just hoping you hit a bullseye.
The Reality of the Hobby
That’s just the nature of the beast. No matter how much research you do, how many minor league box scores you check, or how closely you watch spring training, there are always going to be surprises. For every Konnor Griffin-type card I’ve sold way too early, I’ve held onto two other “can’t-miss” prospects who completely fizzled out and never panned out at the major league level.
So, while I look around the internet today and see the jubilation of the collectors who held onto their Griffins (or bought in early) reaping the financial rewards, it’s admittedly hard for me to celebrate this amazing accomplishment by the kid.
Ultimately, though, it’s fine.
The difference between the highs and lows of collecting can be vast. Getting too invested in the pure ROI and making money absolutely sucks the fun out of the hobby. So while I may feel a sharp sting of regret at the moment, I can look at the cards I do have, the cards that connect me to my childhood, to a specific memory, or to a legendary moment, and be grateful that this hobby still makes me feel something.
Even if, today, that feeling is just wishing I had a time machine.
When looking at some of the most disappointing rookie performances of the 2025 season, Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson would be near the top of the list. But he'll apparently have a new lease on life in 2026.
At the 2026 NFL Annual League Meeting, Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy discussed Johnson's struggles last season but made it clear that he'll have a fresh start moving forward.
“I'm looking forward to working with those guys," McCarthy said. "I am aware of their past experiences, but this is like a Catholic operation, and you say three Hail Marys, the priest blesses you, and everybody has a clean slate. So, let's just get to work. …
“I understood what happened with him on special teams, but he’s a young man. Look at his draft value. I’m going to challenge him to be a three-down player, challenge him to be a special teams player. All of those things are a part of being a young running back in this league."
Last season, Johnson was responsible for one of the worst rookie blunders in recent memory, where he failed to recover a kickoff that bounced into the end zone, which was then recovered by the Seattle Seahawks for a touchdown. The Steelers went on to lose the Week 2 contest 31–17.
After the costly mistake, Johnson saw very few opportunities on offense and did not play another snap on special teams. But McCarthy is ready to help the young running back turn the chapter on his rookie season, potentially playing a bigger role than some expected in Year 2.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
LILLE, FRANCE - MAY 4: Coach of Olympique de Marseille Roberto De Zerbi, Mason Greenwood of Marseille following the Ligue 1 football match between Lille OSC (LOSC) and Olympique de Marseille (OM) at Stade Pierre Mauroy, Decathlon Arena on May 4, 2025 in Villeneuve d'Ascq near Lille, France. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Roberto De Zerbi sat down with Tottenham’s media team for his first interview as head coach of Tottenham Hotspur. The video, posted below, had the usual beats for a new manager: happy to be here, optimistic about the future, belief in winning games in staying up in a “difficult situation”.
And yes, he was directly asked about “comments [he] made while at Marseille” (asked without directly using the words “sexual assult,” “rape,” or even “Mason Greenwood. But everyone, including RDZ, knew exactly what it was about, and that’s really what this article is about because De Zerbi did his utmost best to give a non-apology ”apology” for both his pursuit of Greenwood as a player and for vigorously defending him in the wake of Greenwood’s sexual abuse allegations.
I’ve opted to start the video at the place where De Zerbi addresses his past comments, conducted in Italian.
“I have never wanted to downplay the issue of violence against women, or violence against anyone more broadly. In my life I have always stood up for those who are more vulnerable, more fragile. I’ve consistently fought and taken a stand to be on the side of those who are most at risk. Those of you who know me well, will know I’m not the type of person who makes compromises to win more games or to win an extra title.
“I’m sorry if this offended anyone’s feelings with this subject matter – I have a daughter and I’m very sensitive to these things, and I always have been.
“I hope that over time people will get to know me better and will understand that at that moment I didn’t mean to take a stance.“
Yeah. No, this doesn’t cut it at all. It has all the elements of a non-apology “apology” — I never meant to downplay sexual violence against women (even though that’s exactly what he did), I am sorry if my words offended people (but I’m not sorry for anything specifically I said), I’m the Father of Daughters™ (a very common trope by men who continue to speak apologia against sexual violence and rape), I hope people will get to know me better (buddy, we already know you and you have a RECORD of crappy behavior).
In the comments of a recent article, I said that RDZ can and should address his defense of Greenwood, and if he gives a mealy-mouthed word salad non-apology apology then we as fans have the rights to tell him, and the club, to go fuck themselves.
Well, that’s what I’m saying. Is this a start? Barely, and only if you’re inclined to be generous (which I am not). RDZ’s appointment has caused dismay, disappointment, and dis-affectation for a significant part of the Spurs fanbase — those who are victims of sexual abuse, and those who simply don’t want a sexual abuse and rape apologist to be the figurehead of the club going forward.
This statement does nothing to assuage the very real concerns the #NoToDeZerbi had about RDZ’s appointment. It’s a non-starter for me, and both RDZ and the club still have an enormous hill to climb to get me back on board. Winning a few games won’t cut it. Tottenham’s head coach needs to address it directly and unflinchingly, and the club needs to take concrete steps to make amends. Otherwise, this is meaningless.
The New England Patriots came into the offseason with six unrestricted free agents, and only one of them remains unsigned.
K'Lavon Chaisson, Jaylinn Hawkins, Austin Hooper, Khyiris Tonga and Vederian Lowe were all unrestricted free agents after the end of last season and have all signed with new teams. Offensive lineman Thayer Munford Jr. is the lone unrestricted free agent who has not signed with a new team, but according to Mike Reiss, he has met with the Tennessee Titans.
Free-agent OT Thayer Munford Jr., who played in 9 games last season for the Patriots (143 snaps, primarily jumbo TE), visited with the Titans," Reiss wrote on Wednesday. "Munford had been on the injury report late in the season (knee) and underwent surgery after the season."
Munford has been in the NFL since 2022. He was originally a seventh-round pick by the Las Vegas Raiders. He played 370 snaps as a rookie, but saw plenty of action in his sophomore season. He played 56.6% of offensive snaps and played in 14 games. He was not a star, but he is a solid depth piece for any offensive line.
Munford was waived by the Raiders in August and signed with the Patriots' practice squad. The Cleveland Browns signed him to the active roster, and he was waived in October. He was re-signed to their practice squad, but the Patriots signed him to the active roster in November.
He could be a cheap addition for the Titans, who have been very active in free agency this offseason.
IOWA CITY — Iowa football's open spring practice has been set for Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Gates at Kinnick Stadium are set to open at 9:45 a.m. (CT). Practice is scheduled to begin at 10:45 a.m. Attendance is free.
Fans will be able to enter select gates, including Gates A (south end zone), B (southwest) and H (northwest). Regular season game-day search procedures will be in place and fans will be allowed to sit in the south and west stands.
Free parking will be available on hard surface lots, while normal ramp fees will be charged. Concession stands will be open at select locations on the concourse with limited menu items available.
Mar 1, 2026; Jupiter, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin (75) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
The news is out in Pittsburgh - Konnor Griffin is making the big leagues. We knew that Griffin, MLB's No. 1 rated prospect, would be coming up any day now. That day is now here. Griffin will be set in the Pirates lineup for Friday's 4:12 PM start against the Baltimore Orioles. As for our own Fantasy Sports On SI analysis, we bring that fantasy baseball-based angle as to how high Griffin may be able to rise as a Rookie of the Year favorite.
Fantasy Baseball Outlook
The Pittsburgh Pirates are calling up Konnor Griffin, the No. 1 prospect in baseball, ahead of Friday's home opener. He'll start at shortstop. And if he remains with the team the rest of the season, they're eligible to receive a draft pick through the Prospect Promotion Incentive https://t.co/vpFSlila8Q
Griffin is the Pirates' No. 9 overall pick in the 2024 MLB draft at the age of 19. He is deemed an all-around elite player, with added baserunning tools that have netted 68 stolen bases in his 127-game MiLB career.
In 2025, Griffin put on an expose in the minor leagues, batting .333 with a .942 OPS, 21 home runs, and 94 RBI's. Of Griffin's 161 total hits, 48 were extra-base hits. Generally, minor league players struggle when they level up from A to AA and to AAA. Griffin has not, and, in fact, he has improved his average at every level. He batted .325 in Single-A, .337 in Double-A, and .438 in his 5 Triple-A starts in 2025.
The expectation of Griffin will be huge. He can clearly hit the ball all around the baseball diamond, hence his strong batting average. Griffin does not bring huge power, but he can hit a home run every 7-10 games. The greatest value-add of Griffin may then be his baserunning, which he stole bases at an 83% success rate in over 50% of games.
In fantasy baseball, Griffin was drafted at an ADP of Hitter No. 113. Currently, he is owned at a 37% clip, per ESPN Fantasy. All this has been considered with Griffin in the minor leagues, but he is now up with the big boys. As far as we should be concerned, Griffin is a top-100 hitter in fantasy baseball. He very well can become top-50 and even higher. The world is his, should Griffin will it.
Fantasy baseball managers must hit the waiver wire ASAP, and if Griffin is still available, grab him. If you work in a FAB (Auction) league, do not shy away from spending on Griffin. The season is young, so you cannot drain your FAB. However, spending over 20% is not crazy at all for a player with rare upside. We hype Griffin in a big way, but he is the No. 1 prospect for a reason. Added - the Pirates are not half bad in 2026.
The New England Patriots can take their pick of positions to address during the 2026 NFL Draft.
It’s easy to see them targeting someone who can rush the passer, depth options at linebacker and/or tight end, competition along the offensive line, someone who can provide a spark to the skill position group, and... well, pretty much anything else you can think of.
I just don't think they can do it all…
If the club intends on putting itself in a position to regularly contend, it will need to prioritize things perfectly and put together another superb draft class -- which might just include Ole Miss Rebels wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling:
Stribling racked up frequent flier miles during his collegiate career, spending time at Washington State, Oklahoma State, and Ole Miss. I'd usually mention that as a knock, but it's hard to hate on someone who had seasons of at least 50 receptions, 600 receiving yards, and five touchdowns at each stop...
DOESN'T WASTE ANY TIME GETTING INTO HIS ROUTES
ADJUSTS WELL TO THE FOOTBALL, BACK SHOULDER IS HIS BREAD AND BUTTER
INCREDIBLE IN SPACE, CAN OUTRUN ALMOST ANYONE ON SLANTS/GO BALLS
NATURAL HANDS CATCHER
HAS A PLAN, ISN'T EASILY DETERRED OFF ROUTES
WORKOUT WARRIOR
Cons:
Stribling's game is rather linear, which brings about questions as to what his role will be and whether or not there is space for him in an offense that asks its receivers to be multiple.
HIS GAME RELIES ON STICKING OUTSIDE
WOULD LIKE FOR HIM TO PLAY STRONGER AT THE CATCH POINT
CHANGE-OF-DIRECTION IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU WOULD EXPECT
Stribling isn't a fit for everyone, despite being exactly that across three different schools during his collegiate career. If he's going to catch on, he will need to be given opportunities to work on the outside of consistent contributors -- whether those come in the form of slot receivers, tight ends, running backs, etc.
If he finds that role, the sky could be the limit.
GRADE: 77/100 PLAYER COMP: Jalen Tolbert
The Patriots ______ De'Zhaun Stribling:
"must have a plan for"
New England has clear and obvious interest in the player, as it met with him on two separate occasions and brought him in on an official pre-draft visit.
Kayshon Boutte, Mack Hollins, and Kyle Williams are expected to compete for the lion's share of reps on the outside, however. Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, and Efton Chism III are options on the inside, so versatility from those other players won't be as important. The Patriots are probably tantalized by the sheer talent, but they will need a plan if they intend on making the soon-to-be rookie a contributor.
The women's basketball transfer portal just got a lot more interesting. Iowa State star Audi Crooks announced on social media Thursday that she has entered the portal in advance of her final season of NCAA eligibility.
Crooks is the latest Iowa State women's player to explore transferring, signaling a mass exodus of the team that fans in Ames have come to know over the last couple of years. Losing Crooks would be difficult to rebound from given her accolades over the last three seasons.
The Cyclones' junior center averaged nearly 26 points per game this season, to go along with seven rebounds per night.
Crooks is a two-time All-American, having made the third-team last season and the second-team this season.
The most prominent women's programs in the country are expected to have interest in one of the sport's premier low-post scorers.
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PISCATAWAY, NEW JERSEY - NOVEMBER 29: Olaivavega Ioane #71 of the Penn State Nittany Lions looks on against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Piscataway, New Jersey. The Penn State Nittany Lions defeated the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 40-36. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State
Well, it’s the second year in a row that I have graciously taken the Cleveland Browns for this community mock draft. Before we start on 2026, let’s revisit what I stated last year for 2025. I implored the Browns to trade the pick. They did. However, since we are not allowed to make trades in this activity, I decided to take Abdul Carter and add to the Browns’ middle of the pack defense to make it great. The Browns took defensive lineman Mason Graham, who helped achieve the same results. The Browns’ defense in 2025 was fourth in total defense and fourth in overall EPA per play. So, I feel good about my assessment and how it turned out. I also stated that this was a two-year fix for the Browns and after looking at the offense, we can see that thought was also on target. While I fully backed the trade and taking Mason at fifth overall, the Browns’ draft after that point was: LB, RB, TE, QB, RB, QB. And all the while their offensive line outlook was bad. I cannot understate how BAD their o-line is. I said they should have built the lines out but instead the Browns went in another direction with the results exactly how you expect.
The pick is Olaivavega “Vega” Loane. Full disclosure, like last year, I am a Penn State grad. Penn State had a rather eventful year, but the wild year was not anything to do with Vega. He was a man amongst boys in the middle of the o-line for Penn State. Let’s jump into the reasons for the pick.
If you got this far and want to just jump to the comments to blast me or praise me or just don’t care to read the reasons, go ahead and scroll down.
Cleveland offensive ranks for 2025 from teamrankings.com:
Total offense: 30th
Scoring offense: 31st
Rushing yards per game: 27th
Passing yards per game: 31st
Sacks allowed 26th
I think you get the picture. Adding two running backs, two quarterbacks, and a tight end last year didn’t fix the issue. The issue was their offensive line. The biggest weakness for the Browns was at left tackle. I’m not going to get in-depth how bad that spot was for the Browns but it was BAD. Unfortunately for the Browns, the only offensive takcle I thought was worthy of a pick to help with that spot is gone. I absolutely love Francis Mauigoa and Kadyn Proctor but Mauigoa is a right tackle and all the reports I have read think Proctor is going to be better at RT at the professional level. When you pick in the top 10 of the NFL draft, you need guys that can contribute right away and also be around for that second contract. Vega is the best bet to fill a spot on the Browns’ o-line with these two criteria. I like that you can always help chip a guy on the OT but you have little to no help like that with guys rushing straight up the gut. No more free rushers right at the quarterback’s face this year, please. From NFL.com, here are Vega’s strengths:
Prototypical guard build, with thick limbs and a broad frame.
Plays with impressive core power, body control and contact balance.
Creates leverage with upward hand strikes and rolls hips under his hands.
Uses grip strength and chopping feet to stay tight as a drive blocker.
Size and power create momentum to wash out angle blocks.
Punches with tight hands and good pop.
Snaps off twisters with good force.
Firm inside hand with ability to set quick anchors against power.
Also: “He worked hard to eliminate some extra weight and re-shape his body in the offseason and I think he played more consistently because of it. – AFC area scout”
Pro Football Focus grades him out at 87.0 in pass blocking and 78.6 run blocking. He allowed a total of four pressures this past year, zero sacks and one penalty in 311 passes and 303 runs. In fact, he has only given up two sacks and that was his first year playing in 2023.
All told, he’s the number one guard that worked hard to make himself better. As a redshirt junior, his age is appropriate for this pick and since Vega just lived through the craziest PSU football season I can remember, being part of the Browns should come naturally. Let’s build this thing from the inside out Browns! Maybe grab two more o-linemen as well while you are at it. No, we are no taking a wide receiver here, we actually are trying to not get one of the team’s quarterbacks killed this year.
Xander Zayas and Jaron Ennis are two of boxing’s top young stars. What will happen when they face off at the Barclays Center on June 27 for Zayas’ WBA and WBO super welterweight titles?
A two-time U.S. National Championships gold medalist, Zayas (23-0) has thirteen wins via knockout and has gained a massive following since signing with Top Rank at 16. Zayas won the WBO title last July and started 2026 by winning the WBA belt.
The Puerto Rican has made New York his home, competing in various fights at Madison Square Garden's Theater. Now, he’s ready to step it up and prove he’s the future as he headlines an arena show.
"Long before I became a World champion,” said Zayas. “I always sought to face the biggest challenges in my division. I have never shied away from a fight and have always been willing to test my skills against anyone.
“Now, as the unified champion, I am ready to defend my world titles against one of the sport's biggest names. I have always believed in myself, and on June 27, I will continue to show the world what is possible when you dare to be great!”
Ennis (35-0) is a former unified welterweight champion. The 28-year-old attempted to fight the likes of Terence Crawford and Vergil Ortiz Jr., but Crawford retired, and things got complicated when it came to a potential Ortiz fight. "Boots" has 31 wins via knockout.
For years, Ennis has been built up as the next big thing. He aims to prove it’s not just noise as he moves in weight in an attempt to hold more gold.
“Time to step and collect these belts!” said Ennis. “Knocking them down one by one!"
Interested in attending Zayas vs. Ennis? Here's everything to know about the fight, from tickets to bag policy to stadium transportation.
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Xander Zayas vs. Jaron 'Boots' Ennis fight card
Xander Zayas (c) vs. Jaron Ennis for the WBA and WBO super welterweight titles
Barclays Center bag policy
Single-compartment drawstring bags, purses or fashion backpacks are all permitted into the Barclays Center as long as they are smaller than 14x14x6. All bags are subject to screening.
The Barclays Center does not offer a bag valet service. Any non-permitted bags must be returned to your vehicle or hotel.
If you have questions about specific prohibited and approved bags, visit the Barclays Center website.
Barclays Center parking options and cost
There are several parking lot options near the Barclays Center, but they are limited. It is recommended to purchase parking passes in advance for events at the Barclays Center using SpotHero, which can help you avoid higher parking rates on site.
Parking at the Barclays Center can cost anywhere between $25 and $50 on game and event days depending on the type of parking and location.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 30: Ranger Suárez #55 of the Boston Red Sox looks on during the first inning of the game against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on March 30, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images) | Getty Images
If I were to say the words “October baseball” to you, you would instantly be able to picture it in your imagination. You know exactly how October baseball looks, feels, and sounds. You see the bundled-up fans in the stands, you see the FOX score bug on the screen, you hear the crowd roar for a two-out double that plates a run in the bottom of the first.
If I were to say the words “August baseball” to you, you’d be able to picture that, too. And that’s the case even though October baseball and August baseball are near polar opposites — the former cold, tense, loud, urgent; the latter hot and languid, pleasant background noise to the dog days of summer.
The baseball season has its own unique rhythm. And each phase it passes through is integral to the composition as a whole. You wouldn’t want every game to feel like October — that would be far too stressful. Nor would you want every game to feel like August — you need to get the blood flowing every now and then. But the two months complement each other. You need them both. The baseball season is a story that unfolds in a familiar and necessary pattern.
You need May baseball, which is what I would call Settling-In Season. May is when you finally get used to the new faces on the team and when the team starts to define itself. You need June baseball, aka Porch Season, when summer kicks on and the fireflies flutter at dusk and the novelty of the new season wears off, allowing baseball to assume its rightful place as part of everyday life. You need July baseball, when, thanks to the All-Star Game and the increased trade chatter, you start to focus a little bit more on the rest of the league — which superstar is on pace for a historic season, which slow-starting team is revealing itself to be merely a bad team, and which surprising team is going to make itself a fixture of your MLB.TV routine for the rest of the summer. And, of course, you need September baseball, Pennant Chase Season, the aficionado’s October, when scoreboard-watching becomes as intense as watching the game itself.
This brings us to the current month, to April baseball. And there’s no question what April Baseball is. It’s Freak-Out Season. These are the days when everything is magnified beyond all reason or rationality. Luxuriating in the euphoria of baseball’s return, we hang onto every pitch in a way that will seem obsessive and weird in just a few weeks time. We marvel at some hot-shot rookie and wonder if he’s going to single-handedly change the complexion of the playoff race. (What’s up, Chase DeLauter!) We wonder whether a team we assumed would be dominant is actually fatally flawed. (Hello, 2018 Dodgers!) We can’t believe that a young and unpedigreed reliever-turned-starter has thrust himself into the Cy Young race. (I haven’t forgotten you, 2024 Tanner Houck!)
And here’s the thing about Freak-Out Season: it’s fun as hell! Even if we know that Chase DeLauter will not shatter the single-season home run record, that the Dodgers will not finish several games under .500, that Tanner Houck will come back down to Earth, it’s fun to imagine the most extreme possibilities. And this applies to both the good and the bad.
These April freak-outs become the things we remember and laugh about a few months or even years later. Remember the closer-by-committee disaster of April 2003? Remember when the Yankees opened up a launching pad of a ballpark that would prove to be even worse than Coors Field in April 2009? Remember the hilarious torpedo bat freak-out of just last year?? Twelve months ago I was freaking out because I was genuinely convinced that the delicate balance between hitter and pitcher had been forever altered. What a silly, naive fool I was! Thanks a lot, Anthony Volpe!
April baseball is novelty — new players, new ballparks, new rules — and we don’t always know how to handle it. And that’s fine. Freaking out is what the calendar demands of us. And even if you yourself don’t want to freak out, let other fans enjoy this time in their own way. You may be correct that Garrett Crochet will not throw a dud in fifty percent of his starts this year and that Caleb Durbin will not go 0-for-the-next-six-months. But you don’t actually get anything for being right about baseball on the internet and policing other fans’ behavior is lame as hell.
So go ahead and enjoy the extremes of Freak-Out Season, just as you enjoy the extremes of winter. Call for Alex Cora to be fired for failing to properly prepare the team for the ABS era. Demand Caleb Durbin be sent down to AAA. Declare Ranger Suárez to be the worst free agent signing in team history, non-Sandovalian division. Do these things not because you will be proven right (you probably won’t) but because fandom demands and emotion and because the calendar calls on you to do so.
There is a time and a place for taking a measured and considered view of baseball, for reminding yourself of just how long a baseball season is and for staying calm. That time is called August and we don’t need another one. This is April. And in its own, chaotic, fevered way, it’s great. Embrace it.
MANHATTAN, KS - MARCH 01: Audi Crooks #55 of the Iowa State Cyclones in the second half of a women's Big 12 game between the Iowa State Cyclones and Kansas State Wildcats on March 1, 2026 at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, KS. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
One of the biggest stars in women’s college basketball is hitting the transfer portal after a disappointing first-round exit in the 2026 NCAA tournament.
Audi Crooks has entered her name in the transfer portal after a stellar three-year career with the Iowa State Cyclones. Crooks is also eligible to enter the 2026 WNBA Draft, but if she decides to stay in college, she might be the most coveted player in the portal for her final year of eligibility.
Crooks is a 6’3 big who is one of the most dominant interior scorers in the sport. She averaged 25.8 points per game this season which was second in DI behind only Vanderbilt guard Mikayla Blakes. Even better, Crooks shot 65 percent from the field, making her one of the most efficient scorers in the country. Crooks was also fourth in the Big 12 this year with 7.7 rebounds per game. She made a career-best 73 percent from the free throw line.
Crooks has some shortcomings defensively, and can be a tricky player to fit into an existing team structure. She ideally needs to be paired with a mobile front court partner who offers a little more rim protection. She also only made one three-pointer this year, so she’s not exactly a floor spacer.
Still, Crooks is such a great scorer and so efficient with her touches that she’s going to demand some huge offers in the transfer portal. Here are five schools that should be interested.
TCU Horned Frogs
TCU is known for going after big names in the transfer portal: they landed Hailey Van Lith from LSU for her final season, and then snatched Olivia Miles from Notre Dame for her last year of college eligibility. Could it happen again with Crooks? The Horned Frogs made the Elite Eight this year before getting run over by No. 1 seed South Carolina, and they could definitely use more talent in the front court. Marta Suarez is likely out of eligibility after five college seasons, but 6’7 sophomore center Clara Silva could return. Silva and Crooks could be an awesome front court. TCU is more known for putting its resources into high-level guards, and it will need another one with Miles entering the WNBA, but throwing a bag at Crooks would be good business.
USC Trojans
There’s already so much star-power at USC. Why not add one more big name? USC will have JuJu Watkins returning from her torn ACL next year. It will also have freshman star Jazzy Davidson entering her sophomore season. The Trojans struggled this year without Watkins in part because they didn’t have much size or talent in the front court. Adding Crooks would change that. Imagine Watkins and Davidson paired with a low-post monster — it could be electric. At the same time, there’s only one basketball to go around, and Crooks’ addition could complicate the spacing. USC might be better suited to go after “dirty work” style bigs instead of volume scorers, but Crooks is so talented that I think this could work out well.
Texas Longhorns
Texas is a wagon that just made the the Final Four. It has a star in Madison Booker, and the 6’1 forward will have one more year of eligibility remaining. Booker can space the floor even if she had a rough shooting year from three, and adding a star center like Crooks next to her could be ideal. Current big Kyla Oldacre is likely out of eligibility after this tournament run ends after four college seasons. Justice Carlton could return in the front court for her junior year. Crooks would give Texas a different look than Oldacre as more of a scorer instead of a defender, but the team’s perimeter defense should be good enough to insulate her. I love the idea of Crooks in Texas.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame badly needed front court talent this season. The Irish still made the Elite Eight because of star point guard Hannah Hidalgo, but they were blown out by UConn with Sarah Strong crushing them on the interior to end their season. Crooks would give the Irish a different dimension than the team’s small-ball look this season, but it could be worth sacrificing some spacing to bring in a deadly paint scorer. Crooks and Hidalgo together would be a must-see duo.
LSU Tigers
LSU had a heartbreaking loss to Duke in the Sweet 16 this year, but should return a good team again next season. Kim Mulkey knows how to pull superstars out of the transfer portal, and Crooks will likely be the biggest star available this year. The Tigers mostly played a small-ball look this season with their top-five scorers all listed as guards. Big Amiya Joyner should be out of eligibility, and 6’2 forward Grace Knox will have a chance for a big sophomore leap. I love the idea of putting Crooks in the front court and letting LSU’s athletic perimeter handle the defense around her.
When USC football is rolling -- something which hasn't happened since Sam Darnold, at least in terms of championships -- the Trojans are hated. When Pete Carroll had USC roaring two decades ago, the Trojans were despised. Accordingly, CBS Sports ranked the 2005 USC football team as the second-most-hated single-season college football team of all time. The No. 1 team, the only team placed ahead of USC? The 1986 Miami Hurricanes.
"The birth of 'The U' under Jimmy Johnson is when the Hurricanes truly became college football's bad boys. On a team loaded with future NFL talent, Johnson essentially didn't believe in suspensions and handled all disciplinary action 'in-house' -- whatever that meant during a time of little to no NCAA regulation. That included several slap-on-the-wrist penalties for alleged shoplifting and fraud infractions involving his top talent. Miami's swag wasn't enough in the national championship game against Penn State after the Hurricanes infamously stepped off the plane in military fatigues. Heisman-winning Miami quarterback Vinny Testaverde threw five interceptions, and the Hurricanes fell, 14-10, for their only loss of the season. Over five seasons with the Hurricanes, Johnson went 52-9 with a national title in 1987 and three top-3 finishes, putting together one of the greatest runs of all-time. The 1986 team, though, was the nastiest group."
2005 USC didn't really do anything to earn hatred other than win. Reggie Bush was the Heisman Trophy winner. Matt Leinart was the defending Heisman Trophy holder from 2004. USC had targets in the public eye, but they went about their business professionally.
Miami's 1986 team wearing military camouflage outfits to a public Fiesta Bowl function -- all while the clean-cut and well-mannered Penn State players looked on in surprise -- was a blatant bad-boy move, a stunt designed to attract and increase hatred.
USC merely went about its business. 1986 Miami went out of its way to be hated. The Hurricanes really did try to be despised ... and they certainly were. This selection by CBS is not unfair or inaccurate.
Tennessee baseball coach Josh Elander runs out to his spot at third base during the NCAA college baseball game against Nicholls on Feb. 13, 2026, in Knoxville, Tennessee. | Saul Young/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
It appears as though Josh Elander isn’t done tinkering with his weekend pitching rotation after shaking things up a week ago.
Per GoVol247’s Ben McKee, Tennessee is changing their rotation again ahead of their weekend showdown with LSU in Knoxville.
Tennessee is going with Landon Mack on Friday night, followed by Tegan Kuhns returning to the rotation on Saturday. Evan Blanco will toe the rubber on Sunday.
Kuhns returns after a one game starting absence last weekend against Vanderbilt. LHP Brandon Arvidson started on Friday night for the Vols in his place after a strong start to the season in the bullpen. Elander had been critical about Kuhns’ performance after the Vols’ opening day starter continued to struggle after a good first two outings.
However, Kuhns came in out of the bullpen against the Commodores and acquitted himself well. He went 4.1 innings and struck out six while being charged with just one run. Unfortunately, that run came in the tenth inning, as the Vols were walked off 3-2 for the first of three straight walk off losses to their intrastate rivals.
Now, the Vols will have a new look rotation in a series they absolutely have to have. Tennessee now sits at 3-6 in SEC play, with only 1-8 Missouri and South Carolina worse off. LSU comes in at 4-5, so this could be a series that swings the fortunes for both programs the rest of the season.
The series gets underway on Friday evening at 5:30 pm ET from Lindsey Nelson Stadium.
Clarke Reynolds on May 17, 2022 Credit: David Clarke/Solent News/Shutterstock
NEED TO KNOW
Clarke Reynolds, who has 5% vision due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, will run the Brighton Marathon using smart glasses
Volunteers worldwide will guide Reynolds in real-time through the Be My Eyes app connected to his smart glasses
Reynolds previously completed the London Marathon with a guide
A blind runner in England is set to take part in a marathon using smart glasses.
On Thursday, April 2, the Fight for Sight charity announced in a press release that Clarke Reynolds, 45, will be participating in the upcoming Brighton Marathon on April 12.
Officials said that hundreds of Be My Eyes volunteers will also be joining remotely to cheer on Reynolds, also known as Mr Dot, in what has been described as "a world first." The race will see volunteers viewing Reynold’s route via Meta and Be My Eyes.
“Be My Eyes is an app which connects people who are blind or have low vision with volunteers worldwide through live video and artificial intelligence,” the organization said, noting that the app will be connected to Reynold’s Rayban Meta Wayfarer smart glasses at the time of the race.
Clarke Reynolds Credit: Clarke Reynolds/Instagram
Volunteers will then take turns to “see what’s in front of” the runner, “through the glasses (from Clarke’s perspective) via the Be My Eyes app on their smart device or laptop and join his run remotely in real-time, supporting and encouraging him along the 26.2-mile marathon route through the City.”
“Clarke’s volunteers will be carefully selected and briefed in advance, ensuring he can always reach familiar, prepared supporters when he needs assistance," the organization added.
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Reynolds only has 5% vision after inheriting Retinitis Pigmentosa. The condition causes the retina to gradually stop working, according to Cleveland Clinic.
Reynolds has been visually impaired in his right eye since he was 6 years old, but began going blind in his 30s, according to the BBC. "I went to the hospital and they sat me down and said, 'Mr. Reynolds, do you drive?,' " he recalled to the outlet. “I said yes, and they said, 'Hand over your license, you're going blind.' And that's how you were told."
Reynolds said his vision is now like "looking underwater," per the Fight for Sight's press release.
Despite issues with sight, Reynolds is no stranger to running marathons. With the assistance of a guide, he previously completed the London Marathon. A trained guide runner will also be present to trail Reynolds for the Brighton event.
“This is a world first! I’m so excited! I’ll be the first blind person running a full marathon while being supported by volunteers using Be My Eyes,” Reynolds, who has raised £1155 out of his £2000 goal for the marathon as of Thursday, April 2, said in a statement. “This technology is so liberating!”
“Using the app is incredible! I head out for a run and say the three magic words, Be My Eyes, and there I am connected to someone who will support me,” he added. “They could be anywhere in the world!”
The Atlanta Falcons’ star-laden roster underwhelmed in 2025. Quarterback Michael Penix’s first year as a starter led to another 8-9 season and extended their playoff drought another year. In a very winnable NFC South, this is not how Falcons fans expected their season to go.
Owner Arthur Blank shared the fans’ sentiment. His decision to move on from Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot made that very clear.
Blank rebuilt the Falcon’s leadership entirely by bringing in Ian Cunningham as General Manager, Kevin Stefanski as Head Coach, and franchise legend Matt Ryan as President of Football Operations. The trio will have scarce opportunities in the 2026 Draft, as they currently own just five draft picks.
Falcons Draft Picks:
Round 2: Pick 48
Round 3: Pick 79
Round 4: Pick 122
Round 6: Pick 215
Round 7: Pick 231
Atlanta has premier talent at several position groups on their roster. Unfortunately, the “dirty birds” lack significant depth. A common theme for the Falcons is having a star player, such as Drake London or AJ Terrell, at a position, followed by a steep drop-off in ability compared to their counterparts.
Falcons Positions of Need:
The Falcons will aim to shrink that talent gap by targeting the following positions in this year’s draft:
Rodriguez was one of the most notable names in college football last season. The Falcons lost Kaden Elliss, who led the team in tackles the last three seasons, to free agency. Atlanta could fill a big hole with a big name.
Cunningham may need to get creative to land the Texas Tech standout. Rodriguez is currently ranked as the 42nd overall prospect by NFL Mock Draft Database, while the Falcons’ first pick sits at No. 48.
Muhammad may not offer the same name recognition as Falcons cornerback AJ Terrell’s little brother, Avieon, but he is a much more achievable target. The Texas corner has experienced the best competition available by competing in the SEC.
He should be on the board through the end of Day 2. A readymade pro, Atlanta can draft Muhammad and implant him into the starting defense as a running mate for Terrell immediately.
Drake London is one of the most imposing receivers in football. Atlanta needs to build depth behind him. They may be able to do so while also diversifying their offense by adding Brenen Thompson.
Thompson’s small build and elite quickness would introduce a whole new element to the Falcons’ offense. Thompson is expected to be a fourth-round pick. The Falcons would love to weaponize his speed on the turf of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The Connecticut Sun might not be sitting at the very top of the 2026 WNBA Draft board, but the latest Sporting News mock still gives fans something pretty fun to think about: two first-round picks and two very different kinds of talent. In a draft class the mock describes as loaded with high-end names such as Awa Fam, Olivia Miles and Azzi Fudd, Connecticut is projected to come away with South Carolina guard Ta’Niya Latson at No. 12 and Ole Miss forward Cotie McMahon at No. 15.
For Sun fans, that should sound like the start of a pretty clear blueprint.
Latson feels like the kind of pick that could immediately juice up the backcourt. Sporting News describes her as a guard who “can light the basket up like few others in the nation,” pointing specifically to how dangerous she was in transition during her Florida State run prior to transferring to South Carolina. The idea here is obvious: Connecticut needs more burst, more pressure on defenses and more players who can turn open floor chaos into points. Latson checks that box in a big way.
She’s not presented as a perfect prospect, and that’s important too. The mock notes that Latson isn’t much of a shooter right now and can have trouble attacking defenders one-on-one. But this is also where the fit gets interesting for the Sun. Connecticut is still being framed as a team trying to find its footing after the departures of Alyssa Thomas, DeWanna Bonner and Brionna Jones, so betting on athleticism and upside makes a lot of sense. If you’re rebuilding or retooling, speed and playmaking are good places to start.
Then there’s McMahon at No. 15, and this is where the mock gets even more appealing.
McMahon gives Connecticut a different flavor of first-round talent. She’s listed as a 6-1 forward and was described as “an athletic marvel at her size,” even if her jumper still needs work. That sounds like a classic upside swing late in the first round: a player who may not be fully polished yet, but one who brings real tools, real energy and the kind of physical profile teams talk themselves into for good reason. According to the mock, that kind of athlete would be “a welcome addition” to Connecticut’s current roster.
And honestly, that’s the biggest takeaway here for Sun fans: this mock sees Connecticut getting younger, quicker and more dynamic in one night.
Latson would bring downhill speed and scoring pop. McMahon would bring size, athleticism and versatility on the wing. Neither player is framed as a finished product, but together they look like the kind of first-round haul that could help reshape the tone of the roster.
For a fan base wondering what the next version of the Sun could look like, this mock offers a pretty easy sell: more juice, more upside and two players worth getting excited about.
After four and a half years, Marvin Friedrich and Borussia Mönchengladbach will go their separate ways. As reported by ‘Sky’, the centre-back will not extend his expiring contract in Gladbach.
So far this season, Friedrich has made five brief appearances and was allowed to play the full match against his former club Union Berlin.
Friedrich moved to the Lower Rhine club from the capital in 2022. He made 91 appearances for the Foals. ‘Sky’ also reports that there is interest from Bundesliga clubs in the 30-year-old, without naming any of them.
Even a multi-billion-dollar rocket can't escape Microsoft's buggy Outlook apps. Artemis II Commander Reid Wiseman reported two broken versions of Outlook on his Surface Pro.
As we enter a new month, Steam's Hardware and Software Survey data has been processed, providing us with a clearer view of the overall gaming market that uses Steam platform. Today, the most notable change in the Steam Survey is the increase in Linux gamers, who have moved from their historically low single-digit market share to mid-single digits. As of March, Linux-based operating systems were running Steam on 5.33% of all polled systems. This represents an impressive 3.10% increase over February's data, which showed a dip in Linux market share from January's 3.5%. Fortunately, the numbers have now been revised upwards, marking a significant improvement for the community that has been steadily implementing improvements and making Linux-based gaming more accessible to everyone.
What might not be surprising is that a large portion of those 5.33% Linux installations run on Valve's customized SteamOS operating system. With a 24.48% share, the use of SteamOS grew by 0.65% last month alone, while other Linux distributions also contributed significantly. Other Windows alternatives like macOS are gaining momentum as well, with Apple seeing a 1.19% month-over-month increase to 2.35%. Although Linux now holds more than twice the market share of macOS, its growth within the Steam install base is a significant change, nearly doubling in just a month. Perhaps these alternative operating systems are now attracting enough attention from big game studios to encourage them to release native ports instead of relying on translation tools like Wine/Proton.
Urban Ascend is a city-building game centered on continuous expansion, system-driven design, and long-term optimization. Players grow a small town into a highly efficient metropolis by placing buildings, managing resources, and refining interconnected systems that evolve over time. The full version launches on Steam on April 3, 2026, following a public demo that introduced its core progression loop. The full release expands on those systems with additional buildings, upgrades, and mechanics designed to deepen strategic decision-making and long-term planning.
Urban Ascend features nearly 100 buildings and hundreds of upgrades that reshape how the city functions. Players manage citizen needs such as happiness, safety, and governance to unlock powerful bonuses, while responding to dynamic incidents that introduce new challenges as the city grows.
Solidigm, a pioneer in enterprise data storage, today announced it has exceeded initial investment goals for its Greater Sacramento initiatives, including the company's Rancho Cordova headquarters and surrounding research and development (R&D) campus. Announced in September 2022, Solidigm committed to investing $100 million into regional R&D facilities. Approximately three-and-a-half years into the build out, the company has surpassed this figure and will continue to invest in local talent and technology to help fuel global AI advancements.
In addition to $75 million in local lab investments, Solidigm has introduced close to 100 new NAND tools through the development of more than a $5 million world-class NAND lab and R&D center. "We have the most robust data storage product line for AI data centers," said Greg Matson, SVP, Head of Products and Marketing at Solidigm. "Our industry leading SSDs help our customers achieve the highest levels of efficiency, density, and performance in storage for their AI demands. And all of the innovation for us starts right here in Rancho Cordova."
No joke—GFN Thursday is skipping the tricks and heading straight into the games. April kicks off with ten new titles, bringing fresh adventures to GeForce NOW, including the launch of Capcom's highly anticipated PRAGMATA.
A dozen new games are available to stream this week, including Arknights: Endfield, which expands the acclaimed series into a full 3D real‑time strategy adventure. On GeForce NOW, every battle flows with precision and every mission looks sharper than ever. So gear up, grab a controller or gaming device of choice, and get ready to stream—another month of great gaming is now underway.
8BitDo has released a limited edition version of its Retro 68 mechanical keyboard to mark Apple's 50th anniversary. Called the AP50, it takes direct visual inspiration from the Apple II color scheme with the familiar beige and brown colors of that era of computing. The keyboard uses a 68-key compact layout built around a gasket-mount system for better typing acoustics and a softer key-press feel. Construction is all-aluminium, chassis, plate, and keycaps, and the 323.3 x 138.5 x 46.5 mm body reflects that, with the keyboard weight reaching 2.2 kg. Switches are Kailh BOX Ice Cream Pro Max, and the PCB is hot-swappable if you want to try something else without soldering. RGB backlighting is included, and the keyboard is programmable through 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 or via fast-mapping directly on the keyboard without any software.
Connectivity covers all three modes: wired USB, 2.4G wireless, and Bluetooth LE. It's compatible with macOS, Windows 10 and above, and Android 9.0 and above. The 6500 mAh battery is rated for up to 300 hours of use with a 9-hour charge time. The package also includes a set of Wireless Dual Super Buttons (160.2 x 75.3 x 32.6 mm, 270 g), a 2.4G adapter, and a USB cable. At $499.99, the 8BitDo AP50 keyboard is clearly aimed at collectors and enthusiasts rather than anyone shopping on a budget.
Cisco has released updates to address a critical security flaw in the Integrated Management Controller (IMC) that, if successfully exploited, could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to bypass authentication and gain access to the system with elevated privileges.
The vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2026-20093, carries a CVSS score of 9.8 out of a maximum of 10.0.
"This
French consumer group UFC-Que Choisir recently announced a new lawsuit against Ubisoft after the French publisher pulled The Crew's servers offline. This "unilateral decision" stripped consumers who purchased the game of their rights, the group said, as Ubisoft never mentioned the fact that the racing game had an expiration date.
Four astronauts – Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen – rode a 322-foot Space Launch System off Launch Complex 39B at 6:35 pm Eastern on Wednesday, beginning a roughly nine-day loop around the Moon.
Nvidia's market share in the Chinese data center market has shrunk, with a wealth of options coming from Huawei, Cambricon and more, bringing their total share up to 41%.
Cloud-native AI and data intensive workloads coming to IBM Z and LinuxONE systems as IBM wants to make its machines more relevant for today's workloads.
N+One gives cyclists an AI coach that designs and adapts training to your goals and daily readiness. Connect Strava, Garmin, Wahoo, or WHOOP to sync activities, sleep, HRV, and heart rate, then view recovery, mood, and FTP estimates on a single dashboard. Chat with your coach anytime for guidance, nutrition tips, and real-time plan adjustments that fit your schedule.
Video Clipper helps creators repurpose long-form YouTube content into Shorts. Paste a YouTube URL and let AI transcribe, detect the most engaging moments, and cut ready-to-upload clips. You pay per minute processed with credits that never expire, starting with 20 free credits. Upload results straight to YouTube and scale your clipping workflow without subscriptions.
The definitive AI documentary is now in theatres and is expected to stream in 2026. Here’s how you can currently watch The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist ahead of its streaming launch.
After the rocky Handmaid's Tale season 6 finale, The Testaments on Hulu and Disney+ is just the beginning of something even bigger, better, and bolder.
The acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement told lawmakers that the use of Paragon spyware is necessary to counter terrorists’ “thriving exploitation of encrypted communications platforms.”
With the arrival of Japan’s enchanting cherry blossom season, locals and tourists packed the country’s most stunning cherry blossom spots to enjoy the dazzling flowers at full bloom. The flowers symbolise both the youthful energy […]
Celebration Key has become the first cruise destination to earn KultureCity’s sensory inclusion certification, Carnival Cruise Line said in a press release. More than 400 team members at the cruise line’s destination in Grand Bahama are now trained to help guests with sensory needs navigate the vacation environment. “This milestone demonstrates Carnival’s dedication to making vacations accessible and enjoyable for all, including families with sensory processing needs. By...
Tamarack Resort Opens Reservations for New Marina Boat Slips on Lake Cascade, Enhancing Summer ExperiencesTamarack Resort opens reservations for seasonal...
Honor has confirmed that the Honor 600 series will be launching soon. At the same time, a respected leaker has revealed pricing information for the Honor 600 Pro and that the device will ship with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
After more than a year since the release of its predecessor, Netrunner 26 arrives with a new base (Debian Stable 13 Trixie), Plasma 6.3.6 and KDE 6.13.0, multiple updates for the specific components such as Samba-mounter and Artwork, yt-dlp GUI Statcher7, better hardware support, and much more.
Epic Games Store has revealed the free game that's set to be available from April 09, 2026. It's Prop Sumo, a party game that has yet to see a full launch. However, this giveaway announcement confirms that the 1.0 release is around the corner.
Enterprising gamers continue to look for ways to expand Switch 2 storage. In the latest promising development, the handheld has recognized an external M.2 SSD drive. Other adapters connected to the system’s MicroSD Express card slot produced error messages.
Honor has unveiled the X80i smartphone in China and it is powered by the Dimensity 6500, a chipset MediaTek hasn't officially announced. The new phone also boasts an improved design and features an upgraded display and battery.
The latest AnTuTu flagship benchmark ranking is here, highlighting the top 10 phones with the highest average score in March 2026. Among the ten, the newly launched OnePlus 15T did well, securing the second spot with a very close score to the iQOO 15 Ultra.
WhatsApp has reportedly warned around 200 users, mainly in Italy, after a fake version of the app was used in a spyware campaign linked to Italian vendor SIO.
The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL can be seen for the first time in high-resolution render images. Google is apparently modernizing the design in two areas, led by a revised camera module, but one sensor could be omitted.
With RAM prices having risen sharply in recent months, YouTuber PortalRunner set out to try an unusual hardware experiment: He wanted to find out whether a PC could somehow run with RAM replaced – or even with no RAM at all. The result is certainly interesting, but still far from anything practical for everyday use.
Yesterday, Honor launched the Play 80 Pro in China, and the vanilla Honor Play 80 has now joined it. The Honor Play 80 has a 6.75-inch LCD screen with 720x1600 resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate.
It's powered by the 5G-capable MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC, and like the Pro it disappointingly (for 2026) runs Android 15 with Honor's MagicOS 9 on top. It comes with a 13MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera.
Honor Play 80 official images
Keeping the lights on is a 5,300 mAh battery with support for 15W wired charging. The phone measures 167 x 77 x 7.89 mm and weighs 186g. It's...
Alessandro Bastoni has gone from being untouchable at Inter Milan to a potential transfer candidate. Following his inconsistent performances, the Nerazzurri are reportedly open to his departure, bringing the Italian closer to an €80 million move to FC Barcelona.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have targeted Alessandro Bastoni as one of their main objectives to strengthen the defensive line. While his arrival initially seemed difficult, the Italian is now reportedly close to the Blaugranas. Following inconsistent performances, Inter Milan have supposedly opened the door to negotiations for the defender, requesting around €80 million for his transfer.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter Milan executives have given their approval for contacts to begin between Barcelona and Alessandro Bastoni. Despite this, the Blaugrana have not yet made an offer that fully convinces the Nerazzurri, as they are proposing €40–45 million plus add-ons, while Inter are asking for €70–80 million. However, negotiations are reportedly moving in a positive direction.
The Blaugranas would not have issues reaching an agreement on personal terms with Bastoni, as they have been in talks with his agents for several months. However, they need to offload some players in order to fit the deal financially, reports Florian Plettenberg. Despite this, coach Hansi Flick continues to view him as the top priority to strengthen the defensive line.
Barcelona might let some players leave to make room for Bastoni
Hansi Flick has managed to keep Barcelona as one of the most competitive teams. Despite this, they have not stood out defensively, making the arrival of Alessandro Bastoni a necessary move. However, the signing of the Italian could lead to the departure of some players, as they look to create room within the salary cap. In light of this, Ronald Araújo and Marc Casadó could be the most likely candidates.
Alessandro Bastoni of Inter.
The Blaugranas have not relied on Ronald Araújo or Marc Casadó as key figures, with several players ahead of them in the rotation. Despite of this, both stars have made it clear that they have no intention of leaving Barcelona. For this reason, they might find it quite difficult to convince them to leave, so they might opt to free up space by making other departures.
After failing to shine at AS Monaco and losing Flick’s backing, Ansu Fati is looking to leave the team permanently. Along with him, Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny could also leave the team, as Barcelona are reportedly looking to pursue a younger goalkeeper. Furthermore, Marcus Rashford’s future at the club is also unclear. With these departures, they could free up space in the salary cap and make room for Bastoni.
Alessandro Bastoni of Italy looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers.
walked away from the sport as one of boxing’s modern greats, having ruled in five divisions and overcome a host of major names. However, there is one active contender that Hall of Fame legend Roy Jones Jr believes would have provided ‘Bud’ with a tough test. Crawford claimed the undisputed title at super-lightweight, welterweight and […]
Since Shakur Stevenson was stripped in early February, the WBC lightweight world title has remained vacant. Stevenson won the belt in November 2023 by beating Edwin De Los Santos. He defended it against Artem Harutyunyan, Josh Padley and William Zepeda before moving up to super-lightweight to challenge for Teofimo Lopez’s WBO strap. Though he expressed […]
Confusion around ’s rematch with is set to continue, with the American insisting that there must be a major change between their fight, despite having already signed contracts for the spectacle. Mayweather agreed to an exhibition contest against Mike Tyson late last year but then it was unveiled that he would return to the professional […]
Süper Lig ekibi Çaykur Rizespor forması giyen milli oyuncu Samet Akaydin, katıldığı bir radyo programında dikkat çeken ifadeler kullandı. Akaydin, kendisini eleştirenlere ilişkin, "Eleştirilerin biraz art niyetli olduğunu düşünüyorum. Milli takımdaki performansım ve istatistiklerim gerçekten takip edilseydi, bu yorumları hak etmediğim görülürdü" dedi.
Trendyol Süper Lig ekiplerinden Çaykur Rizespor forması giyen ve A Milli Futbol Takımı ile 2026 Dünya Kupası'na gitme başarısı gösteren Samet Akaydin, açıklamalarda bulundu.
Deneyimli savunmacı, kariyerindeki yükselişten milli takımdaki partneri Abdülkerim Bardakcı ile olan uyumuna kadar samimi ifadeler kullandı.
24 yıl aradan sonra Dünya Kupası vizesi alan A Milli Takım kadrosunun değişmez isimlerinden olan Samet Akaydin, yaşadığı gururu anlattı.
Radyospor'a konuşan Samet Akaydin, "Dünya Kupası'na gitmek her Türk futbolcusunun en büyük hayalidir. Küçükken babamla milli maçları izlerken bana 'Bir gün bu kadroda olacaksın' deselerdi hayal bile edemezdim. Bu gerçekten bambaşka, tarifsiz bir duygu. Ülke olarak buna ihtiyacımız vardı ve bunu hak ettik. İnşallah orada Avrupa Şampiyonası'ndaki başarımızın üzerine çıkarız" dedi.
ELEŞTİRİLERE YANIT
Sık sık eleştirilerin odağında yer almasıyla ilgili konuşan Akaydin, bu durumun kendisini yıldırmadığını belirtti:
"Eleştirilerin biraz art niyetli olduğunu düşünüyorum. Milli takımdaki performansım ve istatistiklerim gerçekten takip edilseydi, bu yorumları hak etmediğim görülürdü. Gerçekten reyting sonuçlarına göre yorum yapılsa ağzımı açmam. Romanya maçında maçın oyuncusuydum. Sosyal medya artık doğruların konuşulmadığı bir platform haline geldi. Benim yaşadıklarımı başka bir futbolcu yaşasa, bu seviyede ayakta kalabileceğini sanmıyorum. Ben ne yaptığımın farkındayım ve vicdanım çok rahat. Beni eleştirmeye devam etsinler, biz Dünya Kupası'na gidiyoruz. Bu eleştiri süreçlerinden ailem, dostlarım ve milli takımdaki hocam ve arkadaşlarım sayesinde daha güçlü çıkıyorum."
"FENERBAHÇE'DEN GELDİĞİMDE..."
Fenerbahçe sonrası Çaykur Rizespor'daki performansıyla alkış toplayan tecrübeli stoper, Karadeniz ekibindeki ortamı anlattı:
"Fenerbahçe'den geldiğimde mental olarak bir çöküntü içindeydim ama Rizespor yönetimi ve taraftarı bana çok sahip çıktı. Burada öz güvenimi geri kazandım. Şu an takımda kaptanlık ve abilik yapıyorum. Sezon sonu sözleşmem bitiyor ancak şu an tek odağım Rizespor'u en iyi yerde bitirmek."
MONTELLA VE ABDÜLKERİM SÖZLERİ
A Milli Takım Teknik Direktörü Vincenzo Montella ile olan geçmişine vurgu yapan Samet Akaydin, savunmadaki partneri Abdülkerim Bardakcı hakkında da konuştu:
"Montella Hoca bize inanılmaz bir özgüven kattı. Kaliteli oyuncular olduğumuzu bize hissettirdi. Abdülkerim ile de Hırvatistan maçından beri beraberiz. Birbirimizi çok iyi tanıyoruz ve onunla yan yana oynadığımda özgüvenim tavan oluyor. Savunmada partner uyumu her şeydir."
Trendyol 1. Lig ekibi Boluspor'da Suat Kaya dönemi sona erdi. Boluspor'da bu sezon 4. kez teknik direktör değişikliğine gidildi.
Trendyol 1. Lig takımlarından Boluspor'da teknik direktör Suat Kaya dönemi sona erdi.
Kulüpten yapılan açıklamada, "Teknik direktörümüz Suat Kaya ile yollarımızı ayırmış bulunmaktayız. Kendisine katkılarından dolayı teşekkür eder, kariyerinin bundan sonraki döneminde başarılar dileriz." ifadelerine yer verildi.
BOLUSPOR'DA 4. KEZ AYRILIK
Sezona Mustafa Er ile başlayan Bolu ekibinde, daha sonra sırasıyla Ertuğrul Arslan, Erdal Güneş ve Suat Kaya görev yaptı.
Boluspor, Mustafa Er ile 9, Ertuğrul Arslan ile 11 ve Erdal Güneş ile 3 maça çıktı.
Suat Kaya yönetiminde ise 8 karşılaşma oynayan kırmızı beyazlı ekip, 2 galibiyet, 1 beraberlik ve 5 mağlubiyet yaşadı.
A Milli Takım'ın da yer alacağı 2026 FIFA Dünya Kupası'nın bilet satış işlemleri başladı. Peki biletler nasıl ve nereden alınır? İşte detaylar...
ABD, Meksika ve Kanada'nın ortaklaşa ev sahipliği yapacağı 2026 FIFA Dünya Kupası'nın bilet satışı başladı.
BİLET SATIN ALMA SÜRECİ BAŞLADI
Türkiye Futbol Federasyonundan yapılan açıklamada, 11 Haziran-19 Temmuz'da düzenlenecek organizasyonun bilet satış sürecinin resmen başladığı belirtildi.
NEREDEN ALINIR?
Dünya Kupası'nın tüm bilet işlemlerinin FIFA'nın resmi internet sitesi (FIFA.com) aracılığıyla yapılacağı aktarıldı. Bilet satın alabilmek için "fifa.com/tickets" üzerinden FIFA ID oluşturulması ve hesaba giriş yapılması gerektiği bildirildi. Hesaba giriş yapılmasının ardından müsabaka ve koltuk seçimlerinin gerçekleştirileceği ifade edildi. Ödeme işleminin tamamlanmasıyla FIFA tarafından onay e-postasının gönderileceği ve biletlere seçilen müsabakalardan bir ay önce erişilebileceği kaydedildi.
TÜRKİYE MAÇINA NASIL BİLET ALINIR?
Bilet satın alma ekranında farklı bir ülke seçildiği takdirde genel satış kapsamında birçok müsabaka için bilet temin edileceği belirtildi. Platform üzerinden ülke olarak Türkiye'nin seçilmesi durumunda taraftar bileti satın alınabilmesi için özel bir erişim kodu talep edileceği aktarıldı.
Söz konusu erişim kodlarının ilerleyen günlerde TFF'nin internet sitesi üzerinden Milli Takım Taraftar Kulübü Kırmızı Üyeleri için paylaşılacağı bildirildi. Taraftarların güncel bilgilendirmeler ve kod paylaşımları için TFF'nin resmi iletişim kanallarını takip etmeleri gerektiği vurgulandı.
Trendyol Süper Lig'de Beşiktaş'ı konuk edecek Fenerbahçe, hazırlıklarına bugün yaptığı antrenmanla devam etti. Sarı-lacivertlilerde sakatlığını atlatan Milan Skriniar, takımla birlikte çalıştı.
Süper Lig'de 2025/26 sezonunun 28. haftası dev bir derbiye sahne olacak. Fenerbahçe ile Beşiktaş, 5 Nisan Pazar günü karşı karşıya gelecek. Derbiyi kazanıp evinde hata yapmak istemeyen Fenerbahçe, hazırlıklarına bugün yaptığı antrenmanla devam etti.
Sarı-lacivertli kulübün internet sitesi üzerinden yapılan açıklamaya göre Domenico Tedesco yönetimindeki antrenman, salonda yapılan core hareketleriyle başladı. Antrenmanın ısınma, çabukluk ve koordinasyon hareketleriyle devam ettiği, 5'e 2 top kapma ve pas çalışmaları yapıldığı belirtildi.
Fenerbahçe'nin UEFA Avrupa Ligi'nde Nottingham Forest'la oynadığı ilk maçta sakatlanan ve bir süredir takımdan ayrı olan Milan Skriniar, derbi öncesinde takımla çalıştı. A Spor'un haberine göre Skriniar'ın Beşiktaş maçında kadroda olması bekleniyor. Bu sezon Fenerbahçe formasıyla 35 maça çıkan deneyimli stoper, 2 gol ve 1 asist kaydetti.
Galatasaray, Gabriel Sara'nın sol ayak bilek iç-ön yan bağlarında hasar ve kemikte ödem tespit edildiğini, Uğurcan Çakır'ın ise viral enfeksiyon nedeniyle günü tedaviyle geçirdiğini açıkladı.
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 28. haftasında lider Galatasaray, Trabzonspor ile deplasmanda karşı karşıya gelecek. Sarı-kırmızılılar, zorlu mücadelenin hazırlığını sürdürüyor.
Öte yandan Galatasaray, Gabriel Sara, Uğurcan Çakır ve Victor Osimhen ile ilgili sağlık bilgilendirmesi yaptı.
"Gabriel Sara’nın bugün yapılan MR tetkiklerinde sol ayak bilek iç-ön yan bağlarında hasar ve kemikte ödem tespit edilmiş olup tedavisine başlandı."
"Milli takımdan dönen Uğurcan Çakır, viral enfeksiyon nedeniyle günü tedaviyle geçirdi."
"Operasyonu sonrası tedavisi devam eden Victor Osimhen, fizyoterapistler kontrolünde salonda çalıştı."
Trabzonspor Başkanı Ertuğrul Doğan, kaleci Uğurcan Çakır'ın ayrılık süreci hakkında açıklamalarda bulundu.
Trabzonspor-Galatasaray derbisi öncesi bordo-mavililerin başkanı Ertuğrul Doğan, Uğurcan Çakır hakkında konuştu.
Doğan, Çakır'ın İstanbul takımlarından birine gitmek istediğini iletmesi üzerine şok olduğunu vurguladı.
TRT Spor'a konuşan Ertuğrul Doğan, “Bu lafı duyduktan sonra Uğurcan'ı gönderdim. Kimsenin nazını çekmem.” ifadelerini kullandı.
“KARAKTERİ İLE BU ŞEHRİ TEMSİL EDEBİLECEK OYUNCULAR LAZIM”
"Bize karakteri ile bu şehri temsil edebilecek oyuncular lazım. Dozer Cemil gibi kaptanlar lazım" diyen Doğan sözlerini şöyle sürdürdü:
"Uğurcan için gittiği takım fark etmiyorsa ben en fazla para veren takımı seçerim. Ben Trabzonspor için kimseyi tanımam. Yapabileceğim tek şey, taraftarıma gerçekleri söylemek. Oynamayı istemeyen bir oyuncunun arkasında takımımı çıkaramam."
Trendyol Süper Lig ekiplerinden Kocaelispor, teknik direktör Selçuk İnan'ın sözleşmesinin 2028'e kadar uzatıldığını açıkladı.
Kocaelispor, teknik direktör Selçuk İnan'ın sözleşmesini yeniledi.
Kulübün sosyal medya hesabından yapılan açıklamada, Selçuk İnan'ın yeni sözleşmesiyle ilgili "Kulübümüz ile Teknik Direktörümüz Selçuk İnan arasındaki sözleşme 2026-2027 ve 2027-2028 sezonlarını kapsayacak şekilde 30.06.2028 tarihine kadar uzatılmıştır." denildi.
Kocaelispor, bu sezonun başında Selçuk İnan'ı takımın başına getirmişti.
KOCAELİSPOR'UN BU SEZONKİ PERFORMANSI
Süper Lig'e yükseldiği ilk sezonda Kocaelispor, Selçuk İnan yönetiminde 27 maçta 9 galibiyet, 6 beraberlik ve 12 yenilgi elde etti.
Kocaelispor bu maçlarda 33 puan toparken 23 gol atıp kalesinde 32 gol gördü.
Mehmet Topal'ın, Petrolul Ploiesti'de üçüncü kez teknik direktörlük görevine getirilmesi Romanya'da gündem oldu. Bir dönem Petrolul'u da çalıştıran eski Rumen golcü Adrian Mutu, Mehmet Topal'ın göreve getirilişi hakkında çarpıcı sözler sarf etti.
Petrolul Ploiesti'de Temmuz 2024-Aralık 2024 ve Mart 2025-Mayıs 2025 dönemlerinde iki kez teknik direktörlük yapan Mehmet Topal, geçtiğimiz günlerde attığı imza ile Rumen kulübünde üçüncü dönemine başladı. Türk futbol adamının iki yıl dolmadan Petrolul'da üçüncü defa göreve getirilmesi Romanya'da gündem oldu.
Mehmet Topal gibi bir dönem Petrolul Ploiesti'yi çalıştıran eski futbolcu Adrian Mutu, 40 yaşındaki çalıştırıcının tekrardan Rumen takımıyla sözleşme imzalamasını şaşkınlıkla karşıladığını dile getirdi.
MUTU'DAN MEHMET TOPAL TEPKİSİ: “ŞAKA MI YAPIYORSUN!”
Digi Sport'ta yayınlanan bir programda konuşan Mutu, haberi Türkiye - Romanya maçını izledikten sonra İstanbul'dan dönerken aldığını söyledi ve şunları söyledi:
"Türkiye'den dönerken biriyle tanıştım. Bana Eugen Neagoe'nun (Petrolul Ploiesti'nin eski teknik direktörü) işinin bittiğini duyup duymadığımı sordu. Ben de yerine kimi getireceklerini sordum. Bana Mehmet Topal'ı getirdiklerini söyledi. Ona 'Hadi ama dostum! Şaka mı yapıyorsun? Madem öyle neden ayrıldı?' dedim. Bence orada tanınmış bir oyuncu olduğunu göstermeye çalışıyor. Orada defansif orta saha oyuncusuydu. Sürekli buraya geliyor. Eğer bu karar Petrolul'u küme düşmekten kurtaracaksa, kalsın."
ADRIAN MUTU'DAN 10 MAÇTA 2 GALİBİYET
Adrian Mutu, Mehmet Topal'ın Petrolul'daki birinci dönemiyle ikinci dönemi arasındaki 3 aylık zaman diliminde Rumen takımının çalıştırmıştı. 47 yaşındaki teknik adam, 10 maçta 2 galibiyet, 3 beraberlik, 5 yenilgi aldı.
MEHMET TOPAL'DAN 31 MAÇTA 11 GALİBİYET
Topal ise Petrolul Ploiesti'deki iki döneminde çıktığı 31 maçta 11 galibiyet, 13 beraberlik ve 7 mağlubiyet elde etti. Petrolul, Mehmet Topal'ın kariyerinde çalıştırdığı tek takım olarak dikkat çekiyor.
Bu gün futbol üzrə Azərbaycan Birinci Liqasında 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 20-ci turunun oyunlarına start verilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ilk oyun günündə üç qarşılaşma baş tutub.
Üç qolun qeydə alındığı MOİK – “Cəbrayıl” görüşündə “hərbçilər” qalib gəliblər. “Zaqatala” “Difai”ni, “Səbail” isə “Baku Sportinq”i tək qolla üstələyib.
20-ci turun qalan görüşləri aprelin 3-də keçiriləcək.
“Zaqatala” – “Difai” 1:0 Qol: Rəhman Şabanov, 49-pen. Hakimlər: İslam Məmmədov, Sənan Atayev, Aydın Bəxşiyev, Şamil İmanzadə. Hakim-inspektor: Rövşən Əhmədov. AFFA nümayəndəsi: Azər Əsgərov. Zaqatala Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu, 15:30.
“Səbail” – “Baku Sportinq” 1:0 Qol: Səbayıl Bağırov, 86. Hakimlər: Əli Əliyev, Gülnurə Əkbərzadə, Rəhman Aslanov, Murad Səlimov. Hakim-inspektor: Zöhrab Qədiyev. AFFA nümayəndəsi: Nəriman Axundov. Bakı. “Bayıl Arena”, 17:00.
3 aprel
“Şahdağ Qusar” – “Şimal” Hakimlər: Emin Əliyev, Vüqar Bayramov, Safalı Ağayev, Maqsud Şamıyev. Hakim-inspektor: Ceyhun Haşımov. AFFA nümayəndəsi: Asif Əliyev. Şamaxı Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu, 15:30.
“Mingəçevir” – “Şəfa” Hakimlər: Elvin Bayramov, Şirmamed Mamedov, Mirnihat Seyidov, Sənan Bayramzadə. Hakim-inspektor: Ramil Diniyev. AFFA nümayəndəsi: Eldəniz Musayev. Yaşar Məmmədzadə adına Mingəçevir şəhər stadionu (ehtiyat meydança), 15:30.
Milli komandanın uğursuz çıxışı mənzərəsində Qabriele Qravina İtaliya Futbol Federasiyasının prezidenti vəzifəsindən istefa verib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə İtaliya Futbol Federasiyasının rəsmi saytı məlumat yayıb.
Xatırladaq ki, martın 31-də İtaliya milli komandası dünya çempionatının final mərhələsinə vəsiqə qazanmaq üçün pley-off oyununda Bosniya və Herseqovina yığmasına məğlub olub (1:1, penaltilərdə 1:4). İtaliya yığmasının ardıcıl 3 mundialda işitak edə bilməməsi səbəbindən federasiya rəhbəri vəzifəsindən gedib.
Federasiyanın açıqlamasında o da vurğulanır ki, yeni prezident seçkisi bu il iyunun 22-də təşkil ediləcək.
Xatırladaq ki, 72 yaşlı Qravina 2018-ci ildən İtaliya Futbol Federasiyasının prezidenti vəzifəsində çalışırdı.
Sonda onu da qeyd edək ki, millinin son uğursuzluğunun ardından baş məşqçi Cennaro Qattuzonun da istefası gözlənilir. Böyük ehtimalla federasiyanın yeni rəhbərliyi millinin baş məşqçi postunda da dəyişiklik edəcək.
Futbol üzrə Türkiyə Super Liqasında mübarizə aparan “Kocaelispor” baş məşqçisi Selçuk İnan ilə yeni müqavilə bağlayıb.
Arena.az bu barədə Kocaeli klubunun mətbuat xidmətinə istinadən xəbər verir.
Tərəflər arasındakı yeni sözləşmənin müddəti 2028-ci ilin 30 iyununadək nəzərdə tutulub. Əvvəlki müqavilənin müddəti bu mövsümün sonunda başa çatacaqdı.
Xatırladaq ki, Selçuk İnan 2025-ci ilin yayında “Kocaelispor”a baş məşqçi təyin edilib. Elita təmsilçisi gənc mütəxəssisin rəhbərliyi altında keçirilmiş 27 matçda 9 qələbə qazanıb, 6 heç-heçə edib, 12 məğlubiyyətə üzülüb. “Kocaelispor” bu matçlarda 33 xal toplayıb, 23 qol vurub, 32 top buraxıb.
Selçik İnanın daha öncə “Qalatasaray”da köməkçi məşqçi kimi çalışıb, həmçinin “Kasımpaşa” və “Qaziantep”ə rəhbərlik edib.
Gençlerbirliği Teknik Direktörü Volkan Demirel ve kaptan Dimitrios Goutas, İlhan Cavcav Tesisleri'nde yaptığı antrenmanda basın mensuplarının sorularını yanıtladı.
Fenerbahçe'nin Napoli'de sıkıntılı bir süreçten geçen Romelu Lukaku'nun transferi için futbolcunun yakın çevresiyle iletişime geçtiği iddia edildi. İtalyan basını, Victor Osimhen detayına vurgu yaparak sarı-lacivertlilerin Belçikalı golcüye olan ilgisini duyurdu.
Trabzonspor Başkanı Ertuğrul Doğan, bordo-mavililerin gündemine ilişkin dikkat çeken açıklamalarda bulundu. Başkan Doğan, sezon başında Galatasaray’a transfer olan kaleci Uğurcan Çakır hakkında da çarpıcı...Devamı için tıklayınız
Türkiyənin “Kocaelispor” klubu baş məşqçisi Səlçuk İnan ilə müqaviləni uzadıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə Super Liqa təmsilçisinin mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. Mütəxəssisin sözləşməsi 2028-ci ilin yayına kimi artırılıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, ilk gündə üç qarşılaşma keçirilib.
MOİK “Cəbrayıl”ı, “Zaqatala” isə “Difai”ni məğlub edib. Turnir cədvəlinin üçüncü sırasında qərarlaşan “Səbail” “Baku Sportinq”ə qalib gəlib və xalları bərabərləşdirib.
İtaliya futbolunda milli komandanın dünya çempionatına vəsiqə qazana bilməməsindən sonra “istefa dalğası” başlayıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, federasiya rəhbəri Qabriel Qravinadan sonra keçmiş qolkiper Canluici Buffon da istefa verib. O, milli komandanın idarə heyətinin rəhbəri vəzifəsindən ayrılıb.
Buffon 2023-cü ilin avqustundan millidə çalışırdı.
“Mançester Siti” baş məşqçi Xosep Qvardiolaya əvəzləyici tapıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə insayder Fabrizio Romano məlumat yayıb. Klub rəhbərliyi mütəxəssisin hələ qərar verməməsindən narahatdır. Onlar Qvardiolaya seçim azadlığı verib.
Qvardiola klubdan ayrılsa, onun əvəzinə komandaya Enzo Mareskanın gətirilməsi planlaşdırılır.
Mareska son olaraq “Çelsi”yə rəhbərlik edib və yanvardan işsizdir. Mütəxəssis daha əvvəl “Mançester Siti”də Qvardiolanın köməkçisi olub.
Altura, a DeFi protocol led by former Fidelity and PwC staff, is pitching retail investors an onchain gold arbitrage vault targeting 20% yields as bullion trades near record highs.
Wallet in Telegram rolls out perpetual futures via Lighter DEX, enabling leveraged trading on crypto, stocks and commodities directly inside the messaging app.
Arkham data linked a 500 BTC outflow to Riot Platforms, worth roughly $34 million, as Bitcoin miners and treasury companies navigate listing pressures and volatile market conditions.
A new bill in Canada would ban crypto donations to political parties, a move which election overseers have supported in past recommendations to Parliament.
There’s a flood coming. A downpour of noise — more content, more channels, more AI-generated everything, moving faster than most teams can keep up with. Somewhere in that volume, your customers are quietly drowning — overwhelmed, underserved, and one bad experience away from choosing someone else.
You’ve probably felt it on your team, too. Another tool. Another sprint. Another quarter of doing more with less. The productivity metrics look fine from the outside. But inside, people are running on empty.
There’s an old story about a man named Noah who, facing catastrophic disruption, didn’t freeze or panic. He didn’t look for shortcuts or try to outswim the storm. He built — with intention, with a clear design, and with people he trusted. When the waters rose, the ark held.
The brands that lead don’t adopt the most technology the fastest. They build with intention — designing systems and experiences that protect people.
What follows is the case for building your ark — and a practical framework to do it.
AI power users report that it makes their overwhelming workload more manageable (92%), boosts creativity (92%), and helps them focus on their most important work (93%), per Microsoft and LinkedIn’s Work Trend Index,.
Yet, 60% of leaders say their company lacks a concrete AI vision or plan — meaning the very tool that could relieve team burnout is sitting underutilized.
That gap shows up in real ways.
For customers, it creates friction — too many choices, unclear navigation, and messaging that misses where they are. They arrive with a question and leave with more confusion. They don’t feel seen or helped.
For marketing teams, the impact is quieter but just as serious:
Decision fatigue disguised as strategy.
Tool overload framed as innovation.
Burnout that looks like productivity — until it doesn’t.
Fragmented workflows that drain energy faster than they produce results.
Brands that recognize these human issues move faster, retain stronger talent, build deeper customer loyalty, and drive better business outcomes. Enter what I call the wellness sweet spot.
The wellness sweet spot is the moment where AI, empathy, and human-first design converge — creating conditions where both your customers and your team can think clearly, act confidently, and trust the experience they’re in.
It’s an architectural decision about how your entire marketing ecosystem is designed to make people feel. When its three pillars are genuinely working together, four things become true simultaneously:
AI reduces waste and cognitive load in the experience — making things simpler.
Emotional friction is intentionally minimized at every touchpoint.
Marketing teams operate from a foundation of wellness (and well-being).
Systems and workflows support human thriving, not just throughput.
When these conditions are in place, something shifts. AI stops feeling like a disruption and starts working as a stabilizing layer — supporting, protecting, and quietly holding the system together. It manages the overwhelm. The ark keeps floating.
Most marketing leaders still think about AI in terms of what it does — automate, generate, optimize, analyze. Those outcomes matter, but they don’t tell the full story. The more consequential question is how AI makes people feel while it’s doing those things.
For customers, AI used well is a guide that:
Summarizes complexity without dumbing it down.
Narrows choices in ways that feel helpful rather than manipulative.
Anticipates what someone needs next and removes ambiguity from decision paths.
Saves time — which is, in a very real sense, saving emotional energy.
For teams, thoughtfully deployed AI absorbs the work that depletes people most: the repetitive, the reactive, and the administrative. It creates space for what human brains do best: strategy, creativity, relationship-building, and nuanced judgment.
When you build your marketing systems around it, the output quality goes up because the people producing it aren’t running on fumes.
This is empathy at scale. Not the kind that lives in a tagline, but the kind that’s baked into how your systems are structured and how your content is designed to reach people.
The new emotional metrics: What to measure when you start caring about feelings
This is where things get practical and start to move ahead of the curve. Most marketing dashboards show what happened — click-through rates, conversion rates, and time on page. Those metrics matter, but they don’t explain why someone left or how they felt along the way.
Emotional metrics help fill that gap by focusing on the conditions under which decisions are made. Research in psychology and neuroscience shows that people make better decisions, build stronger brand relationships, and become more loyal when they feel clear, confident, and calm.
Here’s how traditional metrics map to emotional KPIs:
Traditional metric
Emotional KPI
What it measures, reimagined
Time on page
Clarity index
How quickly someone finds what they need — without confusion
Conversion rate
Decision effort score
Cognitive load required to complete an action
Engagement rate
Customer calm markers
Behavioral signals of confidence, not stress (Qualified attention)
Team output volume
Wellness throughput
Strategic output produced with reduced burnout
These are upstream indicators that help explain downstream performance. A low clarity index often shows up as stalled conversion rates. A high decision effort score can lead to rising cart abandonment. Declining wellness throughput tends to result in average output from top strategists.
Brands that start tracking these now gain an advantage over those that wait to react.
5 steps to design toward your wellness sweet spot
A caution before the roadmap: more speed and scale applied to a broken system will not fix it. It will amplify everything that’s wrong with it. These five steps are meant to be done before you push harder on AI adoption.
Step 1: Run an empathy audit
Where are customers confused? Hesitating? Leaving? Map these moments using behavioral data combined with qualitative insight — customer interviews, session recordings, support tickets, search data. Focus less on what people clicked and more on where they felt lost.
Step 2: Simplify for cognitive ease
Fewer choices. Plain language. Cleaner navigation. Every step you remove from a decision path is a small act of respect for your customer’s mental energy. This is generous. It’s designing with intelligence.
Step 3: Use AI as a shepherd
Deploy AI to enhance orientation, clarity, and confidence. Don’t push aggressive automation or manufacture a sense of urgency. AI should make customers feel helped, not herded. There’s a difference, and your audience feels it.
Step 4: Rebuild team workflows around energy
Audit where your team’s cognitive energy actually goes each week. Identify the work that is routine, reactive, or repetitive — and build AI into those gaps first. Protect the hours that require human judgment, creativity, and relationship-building. Those are the hours that drive real growth.
Step 5: Measure the feels
Begin tracking emotional outcomes alongside performance metrics. Start simple: add a one-question post-interaction survey.
Review search data for confusion signals. For example, growing volume for “how do I” or “why can’t I” phrases on your own site may indicate your content isn’t answering questions before they’re asked.
Monitor support ticket themes for friction patterns. A perfect measurement system isn’t required to start. The intention to look is.
The future belongs to emotionally intelligent brands
In a market where nearly every brand claims to be customer-centric and frictionless, the real differentiator comes down to how people feel and whether systems consistently deliver on that promise.
Leading organizations don’t rely on bigger AI budgets. They align technology with clear intent, prioritize well-timed, empathy-led content over volume, treat customer well-being as part of the brand promise, and protect their teams’ energy as rigorously as performance.
Creating value starts with protecting the people who create it. Noah didn’t survive the flood by ignoring it or fearing it. He paid attention, took action, and built with intention — something designed to carry what mattered most: his people, his purpose, his peace, and his future. That’s the kind of leadership this moment calls for.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. The tools are here. The framework is yours. The decision is whether to build before the pressure hits or react once it’s already underway.
You’ve done everything right. You have a fast website with comprehensive content, pages ranking in the top 10, and a strong backlink profile. Yet when you search the query you rank for, your site doesn’t appear in Google’s corresponding AI Overview.
This is a retrieval problem, not a ranking issue. And the difference between the two is the most important shift SEOs need to understand right now.
AI Overviews don’t work like traditional organic rankings. Instead of considering which page has the most signals, AI Overviews look for the page that gives the cleanest, most usable answer.
If your content doesn’t meet that standard, your traditional search ranking is irrelevant. Here’s what’s going wrong, and how to fix it so your content appears in more AI Overviews.
The ranking-citation gap is real — and growing
The overlap between AI Overview citations and organic rankings grew from 32.3% to 54.5% between May 2024 and September 2025, according to a BrightEdge study.
This trend sounds encouraging. But it also means that even at peak convergence, nearly half of all AI Overview citations come from pages that don’t rank at the top of organic results. Google actively bypasses higher-ranking pages when it finds content that better serves the AI Overview format.
The pattern varies sharply by sector, though. BrightEdge data shows that in ecommerce, the overlap barely changed, remaining essentially flat over the entire 16-month period. And in your money or your life (YMYL) categories like healthcare, insurance, and education, the overlap between AI Overview citations and organic rankings ranges from 68% to 75%.
Ranking and visibility are no longer the same thing. You can rank second and be invisible. Or, you can rank on the second page and be the first thing a searcher reads.
1. Your content answers the wrong version of the question
Informational queries — specifically long-tail and conversational searches — typically trigger AI Overviews. Informational queries drive 57% of AI Overviews, while commercial queries trigger this AI feature far less frequently, according to Semrush research.
Google’s AI engine looks for content that matches what the user asks, not just the keyword you’ve targeted. So, an AI Overview answering the query “what’s the best way to manage a remote team’s workload?” probably won’t cite a page that ranks for the keyword “project management software” and leads with features and pricing.
2. You’ve buried the answer
If your introduction spends three paragraphs establishing context, warming up the reader, or restating the question before answering it, the retrieval system moves on. It seeks information it can extract cleanly. If that answer isn’t near the top of the page, the system skips that page.
3. Your structure is opaque to AI systems
Traditional SEO content is built around comprehensive long-form content: 3,000-word guides covering every angle of a topic, written for readers who scroll and skim.
AI retrieval systems don’t work the same way. They need to identify discrete, self-contained answers within your content.
That requires clear heading hierarchies, short paragraphs, and content that AI systems can extract. A section under a specific heading should completely answer the question posed in that heading, without requiring the surrounding context to make sense.
Content written as one long, unbroken narrative is harder for AI systems to parse. Even if every word is accurate and authoritative, it may not earn a citation if the structure doesn’t help the retrieval system identify individual answer units.
4. Your E-E-A-T signals aren’t visible at the content level
Google has been clear that experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) signals are important for content quality in traditional search. It likely matters for AI Overviews, too. But these signals need to appear in the content itself, not just in your domain profile or link graph.
Strong domain authority counts for less than you’d think if the content itself carries no credibility signals.
Who wrote it?
Where did the data come from?
Is there anything here that couldn’t have been written by someone who’d never worked in this field?
A retrieval system evaluating an individual page doesn’t know your domain’s track record. The page must make the case for itself.
Content-level E-E-A-T signals are particularly important in YMYL categories, where AI Overviews are selective about sources because the risk of misinformation is higher.
5. You’re targeting queries that don’t trigger AI Overviews
Before optimizing your content for AI engines, it’s worth checking whether your target queries trigger AI Overviews at all. As of late 2025, AI Overviews appear in 16% of search results, though that figure isn’t evenly distributed across query types.
Transactional queries, navigational searches, branded queries, and highly local searches are far less likely to trigger an AI Overview. If most of your traffic comes from commercial or transactional keywords, the lack of AI Overview citation may not be a content problem. It may simply be that those query types are less likely to generate overviews in the first place.
What the data tells us about the impact of this shift
The stakes are significant. Research by Seer Interactive shows that organic click-through rates (CTRs) for informational queries that displayed AI Overviews dropped 61%, from 1.76% to 0.61%, between June 2024 and September 2025. Paid CTR fell even further, from 19.7% to 6.34%.
But the same research reveals a critical asymmetry: Brands cited in AI Overviews saw 35% higher organic CTR and 91% higher paid CTR than when they weren’t cited. A citation in an AI Overview doesn’t just protect you from a CTR decline. It actively amplifies your visibility.
The Pew Research Center’s study of searches by U.S. adults in March 2025 found that only 8% of users who encountered an AI Overview clicked a traditional search result, compared to 15% who clicked when no overview appeared. And 26% of searches with AI Overviews resulted in no clicks at all.
If AI Overviews appear for your most valuable queries and you aren’t cited, you aren’t just missing out on the overview. You’re losing clicks you previously received from the organic listing underneath it.
How to optimize for retrieval, not just rankings
These trends require you to adjust how you think about content structure and intent. Here’s where to focus:
Rewrite your introductions: Your first paragraph should directly and completely answer the primary question of the page. Save context and elaboration for later sections. Write as if the first 100 words of your page represent a standalone answer.
Restructure your headings: Each heading should be a question or a complete, specific claim. The following section should fully answer or support that heading without requiring the reader to review previous sections. Think of each section as a self-contained answer unit.
Add explicit expertise signals: Include author attribution with credentials, first-person experience language, original data, and links to primary sources and original research. These signals matter at the content level, not just at the domain level.
Audit your query triggers: Manually test your target queries in Google to see which ones actually generate AI Overviews. For those that do, study how the cited sources are structured, the length of the cited sections, and the format of the answer. Use that as your editorial brief.
Expand your topical coverage: AI Overviews favor sources that demonstrate breadth of knowledge across a topic, not just single-page depth. Focus on answering several related questions well instead of building one exceptional page surrounded by thin content.
What AI Overviews represent is something that’s been discussed for years, but few have truly prepared for: the separation of content quality from ranking signals.
For two decades, we used rankings as a proxy for quality. High-ranking content was, by definition, good enough.
But that assumption no longer holds. Ranking in traditional search indicates that your brand has authority and that your page is relevant to the search query. It says nothing about whether your content is structured in a way that AI retrieval systems can use.
Visibility now goes to whoever understands how AI systems identify, extract, and surface answers. A strong backlink profile won’t help you if the answer is buried on page three of a 4,000-word guide.
Ranking in the top 10 is still worth pursuing. But it’s no longer the whole game.
The crypto market March 2026 wasn’t driven by shiny upgrades or bullish hype cycles, per Santiments recent monthly report. Infact, this time it was war headlines, oil spikes, and pure confusion calling the shots. One minute markets panicked, the next they reversed because someone said something, then unsaid it. Welcome to a month review where narratives moved faster than charts.
Geopolitics Took Over Everything, No Exceptions
Let’s not sugarcoat it global tension involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran hijacked market behavior. Traders weren’t analyzing fundamentals; they were refreshing feeds.
Per Santiment insights, Bitcoin slipped a modest -2.7%, while Ethereum somehow squeezed out a +2.1% gain. Sounds stable, right? Not quite. Underneath that calm surface, chaos was brewing.
Oil spiked. Gold wobbled. The S&P 500 dropped around -9% from mid-February to late March. And crypto? Oddly resilient.
Crypto Held Strong, But Not For Obvious Reasons
A big chunk of forced selling was flushed out during February’s liquidation cascade. By March, there simply weren’t enough overleveraged positions left to unwind.
Meanwhile, crypto’s 24/7 nature meant it priced in fear faster than traditional markets. Stocks and commodities were late to the panic party.
And instead of exiting, capital rotated. Traders chased narratives AI, altcoins, anything with momentum. That’s how Bittensor (TAO) and MemeCore casually ripped +67% while the broader market stood still. Selective strength was seen.
Bitcoin Supply Shock Narrative Gets Louder
By March 9, over 20 million BTC were officially mined. Less than 1 million left. That’s it.
No fireworks followed but psychologically, it matters. Scarcity isn’t a theory anymore; it’s happening in real time. Issuance is slowing, supply is tightening, and long-term holders are paying attention.
But here’s the twist retail kept buying anyway. Wallets holding under 0.1 BTC increased holdings by 0.52%.
Whales? Not so much. They added a modest +0.17% overall but dumped 25,500 BTC between March 22–31 near local highs. Even worse, large transaction activity declined. Translation: the big players aren’t confident either.
Shorting Frenzy Fueled Violent Market Moves
Now, let’s talk derivatives. Funding rates stayed deeply negative, meaning traders were aggressively short. And as usual, markets punished them for it.
Every dip attracted more shorts. Every bounce triggered liquidations. The result? Choppy, aggressive price action that felt random but practically it wasn’t.
Exploits, AI Narratives, And Institutional Moves
March wasn’t just macro noise. Crypto-native events added fuel. Santiment insights showed that the RESOLV exploit exposed a brutal truth because a system can fail even when it works exactly as designed. A single compromised key led to $23 million in profit via unbacked minting.
Then came Strategy’s aggressive $400 million raise, now extended into near 24/7 markets. That’s traditional finance adapting to crypto speed.
And finally, Bittensor. AI met crypto, and people actually cared. Not just traders even outsiders too. That’s rare.
So What’s Next For Crypto Market 2026?
Honestly? More of the same unless something breaks the cycle. If geopolitical tensions ease, the crypto market 2026 could shift from reactive to directional. If not, expect more sideways action, punctuated by violent moves on headlines.
Because right now, this market isn’t just trading charts. It’s trading uncertainty.
Politician Ignazio La Russa has a revolutionary idea to revive the Italy squad. ‘If Brazil can hire Carlo Ancelotti, why can’t we get a foreign coach like Jose Mourinho?’
The failure to qualify for the third consecutive World Cup means that there will be a transformation of the Nazionale behind the scenes.
We have already seen FIGC President Gabriele Gravina and delegation chief Gigi Buffon hand in their resignation, with Gennaro Gattuso widely expected to follow suit.
Mourinho thrown into mix for Italy coach
GENOA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Jose Mourinho, head coach of Roma, looks on prior to kick-off in the Serie A TIM match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on September 28, 2023 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Now the search is on for who will start the new era of the Italy squad, with names like Antonio Conte, Max Allegri, Roberto Mancini and Simone Inzaghi all mentioned.
Mourinho has been linked with the Portugal job over the years, but is currently the coach of Benfica, having split with Fenerbahce in August 2025.
He had two experiences in Serie A with Inter and Roma, but was sacked from the latter role in January 2024.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 17: Jose Mourinho head coach of AS Roma looks on during the Serie A TIM match between Bologna FC and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on December 17, 2023 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
La Russa was extremely critical of the ‘incredible’ failure to get past Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-offs, losing on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
The fact they were down to 10 men for much of it due to Alessandro Bastoni’s red card was also blamed on Gattuso.
“How can you let a youngster like Pio Esposito take the first penalty, when he doesn’t even take them for Inter? And why was Bastoni played out of position to accommodate Calafiori in centre-left of defence? This in turn penalised Dimarco on the same flank.”
Atletico Madrid have agreed personal terms with Atalanta midfielder Ederson, claims transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano, with a reported €40m fee wanted for the Manchester United and Manchester City target.
The Brazil international has gone from strength to strength since the move from Salernitana to Atalanta in 2022, as he was instrumental in the Europa League triumph, and sorely missed this season during an injury lay-off.
His contract only runs to June 2027, so for some time it has seemed inevitable that a sale would arrive this summer, when the player will mark his 27th birthday.
Ederson expected to leave Atalanta
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 16: Ederson of Atalanta reacts as he leaves the pitch being shown a red card during the Serie A match between Atalanta and FC Internazionale at Gewiss Stadium on March 16, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There is no shortage of interested clubs, as Inter and Juventus had seen offers rejected in the past, while Manchester United and Manchester City both remain ready to make a bid.
However, Romano claims that Ederson considers Atletico Madrid to be his favoured destination, and has already agreed personal terms.
Gianluigi Buffon has confirmed that he has resigned from his role as the delegation chief of the Italy national team following the departure of Gabriele Gravina as FIGC President.
Heads are rolling within the Italy national team set-up. FIGC President Gabriele Gravina officially resigned on Tuesday, Buffon has confirmed that he has stepped down and head coach Gennaro Gattuso is expected to follow as well.
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The departures of the senior figures of the Italy national team are leaving in the wake of the penalty shoot-out defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Tuesday night’s World Cup play-off final, which cost the Azzurri a place at the World Cup for the third time in a row.
Buffon, in a long statement posted to his Instagram story, confirmed that he offered his resignation immediately after the Bosnia defeat on Tuesday night, but was asked to hold off from making any formal announcements.
Now that Gravina has officially resigned, Buffon has made his decision public as well.
Buffon had served as the head of the delegation of the Italy national team from the summer of 2023.
What Buffon said about Italy resignation
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Gianluigi Buffon, Head of Delegation of Italy, looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Resigning just after the end of the match against Bosnia was an urgent act, one that came from deep within me. As spontaneous as the tears that ache in my heart, and which I know I share with all of you,” Buffon wrote in a statement on Instagram.
“I was asked to stall until everyone had the time to reflect. Now that President Gravina has chosen to step back, I feel free to do what I feel is the responsible act. Despite my sincere belief that I have built so much in terms of team spirit with Rino Gattuso and all of my collaborators in the very short time available to the national team, the main objective was to bring Italy back to the World Cup. And we didn’t succeed.
“It’s right to leave those who will follow me to choose the person they deem best to fill my role.
“Representing the national team is an honor for me and a passion that has consumed me since I was a boy.
“I have tried to do my role by putting all my energy into it, wanting all sectors to be linked, a link for dialogue and synergy between various youth teams, striving to structure a project that starts with the very young lads and reaches all the way up to the U21 national teams. This was to rethink the way in which the talents of the future senior national team are developed.
“I requested and obtained the inclusion of a few key, highly experienced figures, who are bringing out these necessary chances with a medium and long-term vision. This is because I believe in the policy of meritocracy. It will be up to those in charge to judge the wisdom of these choices.
“I hold everything in my heart, with gratitude for the privilege and the lessons learned, even if it is a painful epilogue.
The representatives of the Players’ Association (AIC) and Coaches’ Association (AIAC) express hope Gabriele Gravina’s resignation can finally spark reforms to revive the Italy squad.
Gravina handed in his resignation this afternoon during the emergency meeting, which was organised in the wake of Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Coach Gennaro Gattuso and team manager Gigi Buffon are widely expected to follow suit, prompting a radical overhaul of the way Italian football is run, with elections for a new President of the Federation (FIGC) on June 22.
Meanwhile, Gravina will be heard in the Commission for Culture, Science and Instruction to give the Government an update on the health of Italian football.
Italy reforms expected after new election
BOLOGNA, ITALY – JUNE 4: President Gabriele Gravina of the FIGC looks on during the international Friendly match between Italy and Turkiye at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on June 4, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“The Federation does not have the legal groundwork to impose a number of Italians on the field, so we hope politicians can study suitable norms to relaunch Italian football.”
Not everyone was entirely happy about Gravina’s resignation, even if it seemed inevitable after these failures.
“Gravina still has the trust and respect of the federal components, but we are aware of the difficult moment and that we must all roll our sleeves up. We’ve got to transform disappointment into positivity,” insisted Calcagno.
“Football is the biggest sport in Italy, but we are not able to get sufficient value out of all that we do. This is not a war against foreign players, as other countries with the same rules like Spain still manage to get homegrown players making up 60 per cent of the team.
“We must also teach football in a different way to kids, but ultimately the refinement of talent is not the job of the Federation, but of the clubs.”
Renzo Ulivieri, former Bologna coach and President of the Italian Coaches’ Association (AIAC) also commented that he was sad to see Gravina go.
“It was his personal decision, we expressed our solidarity, now we will try to start fresh with the elections on June 22. It is too early to say who will take over, the same goes for Gattuso and the Italy coach. If asked, we’ll give our opinion.
“It was a very sad meeting, because it’s the end of an era, but also the results were disappointing. We’ve been struggling since 2006, it’s not a new problem, so we’ll see what can be done.”
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has offered his full support to the recently-resigned FIGC chief Gabriele Gravina, and says that politicians are the ones who should take most of the responsibility for Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup three times in a row.
Ceferin was in the stands alongside Gravina in Zenica for the play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The pair have worked closely alongside each other as part of UEFA’s executive committee, of which Ceferin is the President and Gravina the first vice-President.
Ceferin gave his thoughts on the current situation surrounding Italian football and the calls for Gravina’s head in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, which was published on Thursday morning, a few hours before Gravina’s resignation was announced.
UEFA President defends Gravina and slams Italian politics
Ceferin found it difficult to decide whether or not it was a ‘surprise’ that Italy failed to get past Bosnia and Herzegovina in Tuesday night’s World Cup play-off final.
“In one way yes, but on the other hand, Bosnia have a young and strong team that played at home,” he said. “There was much more pressure on Italy. Bosnia deserved to go to the World Cup, Italy lost after having a man sent off.”
Ceferin admits that it is no surprise that fans had called for Gravina to step down in light of Italy’s third consecutive World Cup failure.
“When I was the President of the Slovenian federation, I always said to the coach: ‘If you win, you and the players will be the heroes. If you lose, the blame will fall on the two of us’.
“It is absolutely not Gabriele’s responsibility and I wouldn’t allow myself to attack either the players or the coach. Perhaps it is the Italian politicians who should ask themselves why Italy has one of the worst footballing infrastructures in Europe.”
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: (L-R) President of CONI Luciano Buonfiglio, President of FIGC Gabriele Gravina and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin look on prior the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Ceferin hinted that he thinks members of the Italy national team set-up were effectively hoping for Gravina’s downfall.
“It makes me angry and sad that there are people who stay ‘hidden’ and wait for something to go wrong and then jump out and start criticising. They don’t support Italy, they just support themselves.
“Tell me one Italian player who wasn’t called up that should have been? It’s football, and even with the best players on the pitch, anyone can lose a game.
“Gabriele is my first vice-President and he’s very important to me. But the biggest loss would be for the FIGC. It won’t be easy to find a gentleman who loves football and Italy as much as he does. But I’m not so naive as to believe that some of these self-centred people, who were just waiting for something to go wrong, will be thinking about it. They don’t care.”
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“Euro 3023 is scheduled and will take place. I hope the infrastructure will be ready, otherwise the tournament will not be played in Italy.”
And giving his final comment, Ceferin said: “Italy is one of the biggest footballing nations and will return to the top. The biggest problem in Italian football is the relationship between football politics and ‘normal’ politics. If everyone fell into line, they’d soon become European and world champions again. And if the negativity continues, then things in football will go terribly wrong.”
The contents of a 900-page report presented by the legendary Roberto Baggio have cropped up in conversations among supporters in the wake of Italy’s third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup. Here is what we know about the report and the changes that were recommended over 15 years ago.
Back in August 2010, Baggio was appointed as the head of the technical sector within the FIGC set-up and in December of 2011, presented a 900-page report that proposed a major overhaul of the federation’s training methods and its pathway for young talents.
Baggio resigned from his position in 2013, claiming that the recommendations that he brought forward had been completely ignored.
What was in Baggio’s 900-page Italy report?
As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Baggio had called for ‘adequate’ sporting facilities and wanted 100 different training centres to be operated by the FIGC.
FLORENCE, ITALY – JUNE 03: Roberto Baggio looks on during a press conference at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on June 03, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Baggio also wanted to change the approach that the FIGC had to training coaches and managers. He wanted to focus on coaches who were well educated, preferably with degrees and with different professional experiences, not necessarily within football.
He also wanted to implement a permanent study group, made up of FIGC members and university researchers, that would have been in ‘constant contact’ with coaching and backroom staff.
Baggio also called for a vast improvement of data collection within the youth sector.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JUNE 14: (L-R) Andreina Fabbi and Roberto Baggio attend the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group A match between Al Ahly FC and Internacional CF Miami at Hard Rock Stadium on June 14, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Alekandra London/Getty Images)
He wanted 100 different training centres in 100 different districts of Italy, with three FIGC coaches assigned to each one. His aim was to have 50,000 matches per year for young Italian talents to prove themselves.
Baggio also felt that there was too much attention being paid to tactical approach rather than technique, which is a topic that continues to come up in 2026.
These suggestions were completely ignored 15 years ago, but now, with a major overhaul of the FIGC and national team set-up expected, Italy might be wise to revisit some of the topics that Baggio addressed all the way back in 2011.
AS Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
According to reports from Italy (h/t SportWitness), Chelsea and Newcastle United are interested in signing the 26-year-old goalkeeper in the summer. The player will cost around €50 million, and the deal could prove to be expensive for the two English clubs.
On the other hand, Newcastle are looking to bring in a quality replacement for Nick Pope. It remains to be seen whether they follow up on their interest with an official offer to sign the 26-year-old goalkeeper. The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be exciting for him.
Svilar is entering the peak years of his career, and this could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge. Regular football in the Premier League could help him improve further and fulfil his potential. He has been hailed as a “superhero” by Jose Mourinho.
Chelsea is among the biggest clubs in the world, and they might be able to provide him with a platform to fight for trophies in the near future. On the other hand, Newcastle have an ambitious project, and the Roma star could be tempted to join them.
Newly appointed Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi wants the club to sign Manuel Locatelli at the end of the season.
The 28-year-old has done quite well for Juventus, and he could prove to be a very useful acquisition for the north London club. They need more quality in the middle of the park, and the Italian International would be ideal for them.
He is excellent at controlling the tempo of the game from the deep, and he will add creativity to the team as well. Tottenham have struggled to dominate in the middle of the park, and they need someone who can recycle the ball and drive the team forward.
The Italian international has played under De Zerbi during their time together at Sassuolo. The Italian manager is keen on a reunion, and he has already informed the club hierarchy of his desire to sign the midfielder in the summer, according to Calciomercato.It. It remains to be seen whether Tottenham can deliver the signing at the end of the season.
The opportunity to compete in the Premier League could be exciting for the Italian international. He has proved himself in Serie A, and he could be open to taking on a new challenge. He is at the peak of his career, and he will look to prove himself in English football.
There is no doubt that the midfielder has the physical and technical attributes to play in the Premier League, and he is well-suited to De Zerbi’s style. He will be hoping to settle in quickly and make an immediate impact next season.
Iliman Ndiaye has been linked with a move away from Everton at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old has been an important player for club and country, and Manchester United have been mentioned as a potential destination. According to reports via StrettyNews, the player dreams of a move to Old Trafford in the summer.
Iliman Ndiaye admires Man United
Ndiaye has previously been vocal about his admiration towards Manchester United and the atmosphere at Old Trafford. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United decide to make a move for him in the summer.
The player has been linked with clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool in recent weeks. There is no doubt that he has the quality to play for a bigger club, and it remains to be seen whether Everton is prepared to sanction his departure. He has been an indispensable asset to Everton, and his departure would be a huge blow to them.
The 26-year-old can operate on the flanks as well as centrally. He will help create opportunities for his teammates and find the back of the net as well. Manchester United need more quality in the final third, and the Senegal International would be ideal for them. He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could adapt quickly and make an immediate impact at Old Trafford.
Manchester United is pushing for Champions League qualification and needs quality additions in the summer. They have done well to improve the attacking unit this season, but they should look to invest in another wide player and a striker.
Chelsea and Newcastle United were reportedly interested in signing Lucas Bergvall from Tottenham Hotspur during the January transfer window.
The Swedish International has been outstanding for the London club since joining them, and he is highly rated in the Premier League. Chelsea and Newcastle were prepared to pay around £40 million for the player during the winter transfer window, but Tottenham turned down their approaches, according to Sportbladet.
Will Chelsea revive their interest in Lucas Bergvall?
It will be interesting to see if Chelsea or Newcastle decide to come back for the Swedish International midfielder in the summer. They could use more creativity and control in the middle of the park, and the 20-year-old would be a solid long-term investment. Bergvall has a goal and four assists this season. He can operate as a central midfielder as well as in the number ten role.
He is a promising young player with a bright future, and he could develop into a star with the right guidance. Tottenham are fighting for survival in the Premier League, and it remains to be seen whether they can secure safety in the top flight. If they go down at the end of the season, it will be difficult for them to keep their best players. Top players will not want to compete in the second division, and they could look to move on.
Bergvall is a top talent, and he will look to fight for major trophies regularly. It remains to be seen whether Tottenham can provide him with that platform. The opportunity to join clubs like Chelsea could be exciting for most young players. The Blues are pushing for UEFA Champions League qualification, and that could make them an attractive destination in the summer.
Meanwhile, the player has a contract with Tottenham until 2031, and it is highly unlikely that they will sell him for £40 million anytime soon. Bergvall has also been linked with Liverpool.
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The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Los Angeles Lakers in a meeting of two of the Western Conference’s top championship contenders. The Thunder hold a two-game lead over the San Antonio Spurs for the best record in the NBA and the West’s No. 1 playoff seed. The Lakers are currently seeded third in the West. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic are also two of the top contenders for the MVP award.
How to watch Los Angeles Lakers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Italy qualified for the 2023 Women's World Cup under Gabriele Gravina's presidency [Getty Images]
Gabriele Gravina has resigned as the head of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) following the national side's failure to to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.
No previous winner of the tournament has missed three World Cups in a row, which Italy now have after missing out on Russia in 2018 and Qatar 2022.
Gravina, 72, who is also also the Uefa first vice-president, announced his resignation on Thursday following a meeting held at the FIGC's headquarters in Rome.
He took the job in October 2018, with his predecessor Carlo Tavecchio having stepped down following Italy's failure to beat Sweden in a World Cup play-off the previous year.
Italy won Euro 2020 during Gravina's tenure, beating England in a penalty shootout at Wembley Stadium. But the country's football federation is under scrutiny following the failure to qualify for this summer's World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Gravina oversaw the appointments of former head coach Luciano Spalletti and current boss Gennaro Gattuso. Before resigning, Gravina told reporters he had asked Gattuso to stay despite missing out on the World Cup.
In a statement, the FIGC said a vote to elect a new president will be held on 22 June. Among the leading candidates to take over is Giovanni Malago, the former head of of the Italian Olympic Committee, who was also president of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics organisation committee.
In a further blow, Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin has warned Italy could lose its role as co-host of the European Championship in 2032 unless the country upgrades its football infrastructure.
Italy is set to host the tournament with Turkey but its lack of modern stadiums has drawn criticism, with a number of clubs struggling to upgrade their grounds, often because of disputes with public authorities.
The country's football federation has until October to put forward five stadiums to Uefa, the European governing body, to host Euro 2032 matches.
"Euro 2032 is scheduled and will take place. I hope the infrastructure will be ready," Ceferin told Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport.
"Otherwise, the tournament will not be played in Italy."
Ceferin, who had given his backing to Gravina before the news of his resignation was made public, said the former FIGC president was not to blame for the nation's lack of stadium regeneration.
"Perhaps it is Italian politicians who should be asking themselves why Italy has some of the worst football infrastructure in Europe," he said.
We witnessed the true definition of March Madness last Sunday when No. 2 UConn shocked No. 1 overall seed Duke and denied the Blue Devils a trip to the Final Four thanks to a last-second 3-pointer to pull off a 73-72 win.
The shot by the Huskies’ Braylon Mullins will not only go down as one of the most iconic shots in tournament history, but it also helped one bettor win $615,000 — as he had a $300,000 money line wager on UConn pregame.
The Huskies are short underdogs against No. 3 Illinois in the first game of Saturday’s Final Four, while No. 1 Michigan is a short favorite against No. 1 Arizona in the later game.
How is the betting public wagering on the game?
Yahoo Sports asked a few oddsmakers about the Final Four betting action on UConn-Illinois and Michigan-Arizona so far.
Thomas Gable, Borgata sportsbook director: “We opened Illinois as 2-point favorites and soon moved to -1.5, which is where we still are. This could get back to 2, maybe even -2.5. The total hasn’t moved from 139.5. When you have both games lined this closely, betting action is going to be relatively split. I do expect this to be a decision for us and we’ll probably need UConn.
“For right now, there is early UConn money taking the +2, and it’s relatively split on the money line. Some books made the game Illinois -1, so I wasn’t willing to open -2.5 like most of the market did. The winner of this game will be an underdog in the national championship. We’re in good shape to both teams in the futures book.”
No. 1 Arizona vs. No. 1 Michigan (-1.5, 157.5)
Gable: “A lot of people are looking at this as the national championship game with probably the top two teams in college basketball teams facing off. I made the game Michigan -1.5, which is where it has remained. Michigan money line has been a very popular wager, but nothing I’d classify as sharp. Not a big decision here at the moment. Total bet up from 156.5 to 157.5. Not sure it gets up to Michigan -2, I think stays around -1.5.
“From a futures perspective, Michigan is our best result of the four teams remaining. Their national title odds were shortened during that tournament in Vegas back in November, so they’re a great result for us. Arizona we’re a small loser to.”
The NFL offseason is beginning to shift toward the 2026 NFL Draft, but several teams still have key issues to address beforehand.
The Los Angeles Rams are one of them. Head coach Sean McVay recently revealed that the team nearly traded Davante Adams, sparking significant interest and speculation.
Shortly after, troubling news surfaced involving the team’s other star wide receiver. Puka Nacua faced accusations of making anti-Semitic remarks and assaulting a woman—claims his attorney and representatives have denied.
Dec 18, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) makes a catch against Seattle Seahawks cornerback Josh Jobe (29) in overtime at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Nacua has since checked himself into a rehabilitation facility. Combined with McVay’s comments about passing on a potential Adams trade, this situation raises an important question:
Should the Rams move on from Nacua?
Nacua is due for a substantial contract extension, and this sudden situation—followed by his decision to enter rehab—adds a layer of concern. That said, the Rams may still support him as he works through personal matters.
Even so, the organization must at least consider the possibility of a trade. If these incidents had not occurred, would the Rams have seriously pursued Adams?
Dec 14, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) celebrates after a play during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The NFL has seen several superstar wide receivers experience steep declines, particularly after securing major contracts. One recent example is Antonio Brown.
The former Pittsburgh Steelers standout emerged as one of the league’s most compelling success stories. Like Nacua, Brown entered the NFL as a late-round pick and developed alongside a future Hall of Fame quarterback.
He quickly established himself as one of the game’s elite receivers. However, following his 2017 contract extension, his career began to unravel.
In 2019, Brown faced multiple lawsuits tied to troubling and erratic behavior. The situation escalated further when a Miami woman accused him of assault.
Steelers receiver Antonio Brown scores a touchdown during the NFL football game between the New Orleans Saints and the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Mecedes-Benz Superdome.. Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018.
Brown went on to play just 15 more regular-season games before his abrupt exit from MetLife Stadium in 2021, marking a rapid fall for what had once been a Hall of Fame-caliber career.
To be clear, Nacua is not Antonio Brown. Still, when headlines begin to trend in this direction, the Rams must monitor the situation closely.
There is some optimism: Nacua’s decision to enter a rehabilitation facility suggests he is willing to address off-field concerns. Ultimately, however, the Rams will need to evaluate how the situation unfolds before committing to a long-term extension or seriously exploring a trade.
Wilyer Abreu has been the brightest spot in the Boston Red Sox lineup through the first six games of the 2026 season. The 26-year-old is slashing .417/.417/.917 with three home runs, six RBI and a 1.333 OPS in 24 at-bats.
For context, the rest of the Red Sox have combined for a .180/.284/.270 slash line with only three home runs and 10 RBI. Abreu’s 16.7% strikeout rate is also far below the team’s 30.9% mark. His wRC+ sits at 281, ranking sixth in MLB, while his 0.6 fWAR is fifth among all players.
Wilyer Abreu’s current MLB ranks:
.417 BA - Tied for 10th 3 HR - Tied for 3rd 3 2B - Tied for 6th 1.333 OPS - 7th .577 wOBA - 6th 281 wRC+ - 6th 0.6 fWAR - 5th
The numbers reveal Abreu’s elite plate approach and power surge at a time when Boston has desperately needed it. With the Red Sox looking to build momentum starting on Friday during their home opener, Abreu’s hot start provides a much-needed offensive anchor and reason for optimism.
PREVIEW | Strasbourg vs Nice - team news, lineups, predictions
Strasbourg host Nice this Saturday at the Stade de la Meinau on Match Day 28 of the Ligue 1.
Strasbourg have picked up 40 points and currently lie in 8th position. Last time out, Gary ONeil's team triumphed 2-3 against Nantes (Ligue 1 2025/26).
Nice currently have 27 points and lie in 15th position. In their last game, Claude Puel's team lost 0-4 against PSG (Ligue 1 2025/26).
The last meeting between the two teams ended in a 1-1 draw.
Juventus helpless as 'perfect' defender lined up for £47m Liverpool deal
Liverpool could soon be left with an experience gap in the cente of defence.
Ibrahima Konate, 26, looks set to leave the club on a free transfer this summer when his current contract expires. And a further 12 months down the line it will be time to say goodbye to both Joe Gomez and more significantly captain Virgil van Dijk.
Richard Hughes has taken steps to rejuvenate the centre-back department - with deals for Mor Talla Ndiaye, Ifeanyi Ndukwe, Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni.
But the Premier League champions could well be taking a risk heading into the future with defenders of so limited top-level experience. That’s why links with established defenders make sense - and a perfect proposal has just opened up in Serie A.
Bremer is back on the menu
Juventus defender Gleison Bremer may well be under contract until 2029 - but has got a release clause of just over £47m.
“The contract renewal signed with Cristiano Giuntoli in the summer of 2024—when there seemed to be a possibility of an offer from the Premier League, with several clubs interested (Liverpool first and foremost)—included a €54 million release clause,” the report reads.
“This means that if a team is looking to bolster its defense with a player of proven experience, Bremer could be the perfect addition at a reasonable price.”
Bremer: Situation summary
Gleison Bremer is a 29-year-old Brazilian centre-back for Juventus, a powerful, aggressive defender who excels in duels, aerial battles and penalty-box defending, but is also comfortable stepping out to defend on the front foot.
He reads the game well, attacks crosses, and offers a set-piece threat, having chipped in with goals for Juve and Brazil.
Signed from Torino in 2022, he has become a defensive leader in Turin, often trusted in a back three or four thanks to his recovery pace and physicality.
Bremer extended his Juventus contract through 2029, with a release clause becoming active from 2025.
That long deal gives Juve leverage, but also frames him as a realistic big-money target for Premier League clubs, with Chelsea, Liverpool and others linked ahead of a possible 2026 move if a major bid arrives.
When Pittsburgh Pirates fans show up to PNC Park on Friday for the 2026 home opener, they're going to be greeted by perhaps the most celebratory atmosphere in decades after the team announced on Thursday that they will be promoting top prospect Konnor Griffin in time for the game.
Griffin is the top prospect in baseball according to most prospect ranking sites and seemed primed to make the Pirates' Opening Day roster when Spring Training began. However, the 19-year-old struggled with his swing decisions, posting just a 68% contact rate overall and a 15% swinging strike rate while hitting .171/.261/.488 with a 28.3% strikeout rate. The Pirates sent him down to Triple-A with the expressed instruction of continuing to work on his approach.
So far, so good on that front as Griffin has gone 7-for-16 (.438) in five games at Triple-A with three steals, and five walks compared to just four strikeouts. That early success, when paired with the Pirates' shortstops' underwhelming start to the season, led the organization to finally decide that it was time to simply see what their talented 19-year-old could do. ESPN's Buster Olney also reported that Griffin and the Pirates were “deep” in contract negotiations, so perhaps this move will coincide with an agreement being struck in the near future.
In the meantime, Griffin will take the field with sky-high expectations. Last season, he hit .333/.415/.527 with 21 home runs, 117 runs scored, and 65 steals in 122 games across three levels. He had a 50% hard-hit rate in spring training and crushed a few balls over 100 mph, which hints at the plus raw tools he has.
However, we also need to acknowledge that this is a 19-year-old who will immediately become the youngest player on an MLB roster. On Opening Day, Didier Fuentes of the Braves was the youngest player at 20 years and nine months old. Griffin won't turn 20 until April 24th. Griffin also posted just a 72% contact rate with a 12.6% swinging strike rate in his 21 games at Double-A last season, so there may be some contact issues early on as he adapts to MLB starting pitcher.
Yet, even with all those caveats, Griffin's first game will be appointment viewing. He has vaulted back into the betting favorite for NL Rookie of the Year, and all eyes will be on Pittsburgh at 4:12 pm ET on Friday afternoon.
The moment Darryn Peterson stepped onto campus at Kansas, he was in contention to go first in the 2026 NBA Draft. But after the cramping saga and a season full of up-and-down performances, his status as a top-three lock is in doubt. Peterson could very well answer those questions over the next two months and reclaim the driver’s seat. But for now, this mock explores the distinct possibility that he slips, and which teams are best positioned to capitalize on that fall.
The chaos at the bottom of the NBA standings has produced the grandest display of tanking in recent memory, which will lead to lottery reform in May. But NBA teams have made this choice because of how deep this class is with players built to sustain long careers. At the top, BYU forward AJ Dybantsa has emerged as the new favorite to go first. Duke's Cameron Boozer is coming off a historic freshman year. Neither will be in Indianapolis this weekend, but the Final Four is still loaded with first-round talent.
Illinois freshman Keaton Wagler leads a European-heavy roster against a UConn team that just completed a 19-point comeback on the back of a dominant interior effort from center Tarris Reed, a clutch shot from senior forward Alex Karaban, and the buzzer-beater of a lifetime from freshman wing Braylon Mullins.
Arizona-Michigan is the headlining battle between two top seeds, and it features a prospect showcase on both sides. The Wolverines could send three players into the first round with forward Yaxel Lendeborg, center Aday Mara, and forward Morez Johnson, and Arizona could do the same with guard Brayden Burries, forward Koa Peat, and forward Motiejus Krivas.
With all that in mind, here's where my mock draft stands before the Final Four:
BYU's AJ Dybantsa is now the favorite to go No. 1 in the draft. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
Dybantsa led the nation in scoring as a freshman by averaging 25.5 points for a top-25 team. Players his size, at 6-foot-9, are not supposed to move with the herky-jerky elasticity that Dybantsa does. He can dunk over defenders. He can stop on a dime and fade away from midrange. And he can catch fire from behind the line too. BYU head coach Kevin Young said Dybantsa’s scoring talent is “in rare air with some of the greats.” Over the course of his freshman year, he began to make dramatic progress as a passer, too, as shown with his cross-court, bullseye passes to find shooters.
If the Wizards land him with the top pick, they could be getting the face of the franchise they need to headline a young roster with some appealing talents, such as center Alex Sarr, wing Kyshawn George, and guard Tre Johnson. And, perhaps, veteran All-Stars Trae Young and Anthony Davis could return healthy next season and help Dybantsa win as a rookie.
Boozer’s college career ended with a heartbreaking blown lead in the Elite 8. But after winning at every other stage of his basketball life, Boozer might quickly get back to his winning ways if he lands with a team that has Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, Ivica Zubac, and a bunch of other quality talent.
Boozer gets knocked for a perceived lack of upside, but he’s a do-it-all offensive talent who can post up, run pick-and-rolls, set screens, spot up, and crash the boards. He doesn’t need to rely on bully ball to make an impact as a scorer or passer. Defensively, some of the questions about him popped up in Duke’s Elite 8 loss to UConn: He wasn’t big enough to defend Tarris Reed, and he got smoked by Alex Karaban on a key 3-pointer on the perimeter. But the Pacers would offer better support around him, and he’s already proven to be a high IQ, hard-working player who will keep working to improve his weaknesses and sharpen his strengths.
I said on my podcast in February that Peterson was no longer a safe bet to be the first pick. In the two months since, the sportsbook markets have begun to reflect the reality that Peterson is no longer the favorite. That could change depending on how the board falls, but there’s also a chance Peterson could fall even lower than third. Some general managers around the league value Acuff over Peterson, as The Stein Line reported.
Acuff is not as tall as Peterson, and he’s far worse as a defender, but he’s a wiry scorer who can get a bucket from anywhere on the floor with a quick trigger, slippery handle, and a feel for manipulating defenses. And much like Peterson, Acuff can thrive off-ball too as a shooter and cutter. Acuff entered college with a scoring reputation, but has emerged as a skilled, low-turnover playmaker; he looks like a future All-Star who can toggle between a score-first or pass-first approach. Plus, he displays leadership qualities, which some executives view as a key ingredient for a projected lead shot-creator over Peterson, who’s more quiet and keeps to himself. As for Brooklyn, even after drafting a handful of guards last year, the Nets are still badly in need of a lead dog. Acuff could be that guy.
Wilson is arguably the most gifted athlete in the draft class. He's 6-10 with springs for legs, and when he's flying above the rim, finishing through contact, and chasing down everything in his area code, he looks like a future cornerstone. That is why by the time the draft rolls around, some teams might favor him over Peterson. But the case against Wilson is pretty clear too. Despite all his positives, he hasn’t shown consistency as a shooter at any level. Then a broken left hand in February and a fractured right thumb in March ended his season before he could prove himself on the biggest stage. If the Kings were to draft him, it’s a gamble that he’s a higher upside player because of his size. But he’s raw and it might take a while to find out what he’ll become.
Peterson is the most tantalizing puzzle in this draft class. The shot-making is real. He can pull up from anywhere and get to his spots. Plus he’s 6-6 and plays with a fluidity that just screams superstar. Not to mention he’s a defensive playmaker with the tools to guard multiple positions and the approach to impact the game even if he’s not scoring. There’s a strong possibility that teams are making a mistake letting him fall out of the top-3. But league sources have said since midseason that there’s a chance Peterson could slip depending on how his medical report looks after injury issues derailed his freshman year.
Between the cramping saga, the missed time, the lack of apparent athletic pop, and the stretches where he played heavy minutes but struggled to produce offensively, there’s a lot to be concerned about. At some point, though, Peterson’s upside will be too much to pass up. In this mock, that’s the Jazz, who similarly weren’t afraid to take forward Ace Bailey with this same pick one year ago. And they are looking wise for doing so with Ace flashing star qualities in his own right. A team like the Jazz could ultimately be the best-case scenario for Peterson anyway: He’d join a roster full of high-level talent with Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Keyonte George. There wouldn’t be pressure on him to be the savior straight away. Much like Bailey, the only goal would be to grow.
Wagler was never expected to be a one-and-done, and yet here he is, as the star freshman of a Final Four team. He's not an elite vertical athlete, as evidenced by his zero dunks on the year. But he is 6-6 with a long wingspan, has elite footwork, can decelerate on drives, and has an excellent feel for the game. As Mark Titus said on my podcast last week: He’s an American, but he plays with a European-style feel like the rest of his Illinois teammates who are international recruits.
There’s a chance Wagler goes much higher than this, but if he lands with Dallas it’s hard to imagine a better situation. Kyrie Irving is a different style point guard, but could teach the intricacies of finishing below the rim. They could complement each other in the short-term by trading on-ball and off-ball reps. And in the long-term, Wagler could ascend alongside a superstar in Cooper Flagg.
With Arizona up 13 with only 3:20 to go in the Elite 8, Burries dove head first for a loose ball, grabbed it, then flipped it to his teammate for an open layup. Some players would’ve relaxed with the big lead, but Burries stays pedal to the metal. While that sums up one of his most attractive qualities, watch Arizona in the Final Four and you’ll see he’s not just a hustle guy.
Burries projects as a top-10 pick as a physical, versatile scorer who can beat you from all three levels. He's a methodical creator rather than an explosive one, and his shooting history before Arizona gives scouts reason to wonder whether the efficiency is real or a blip. But the Hawks could make that bet because, even if he doesn’t pop as an on-ball star, he fits their growing identity as a selfless, hard-working team that shares the ball and defends hard for all 48 minutes.
Players who can handle, shoot off the dribble, and stand at 6-10 don’t grow on trees. This physical foundation kept Ament in lottery consideration even after a dreadful start to his freshman season when he struggled to score efficiently and make an impact defensively. But over the second half of the year for Tennessee, he flipped a switch and shots began to fall. He averaged 23.8 points over a six-game stretch in January and February that reminded everyone why he was a top recruit in the country. Then he dealt with an ankle injury that ruined his momentum entering March. Maybe it won’t matter to a rebuilding team like the Grizzlies, who could decide to bet on his long-term upside and see him as a steal at this point.
Flemings entered the season as the least-heralded of Houston's stacked freshman class, but he played his way into the top-10 conversation while his higher-ranked teammates played their way out of it. That’s one of the reasons why Houston wasn’t able to reach the Final Four once again. Flemings himself struggled late in the season against top opponents, settling for contested pull-ups rather than getting to the rim or finding 3-pointers.
But with years of development, the appeal is obvious when he’s a 6-4 ball-handler who can get to his spots, make advanced passes, and limit turnovers in a way that resembles a veteran guard. For a team like the Bulls that has a ton of guards on the roster but no clear-cut future starter, Flemings has the qualities that are worth investing in. And unlike in Houston, he’d have some far more talented supporting pieces by his side in Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis.
When Brown is in the zone, he has an unstoppable pull-up jumper, an ambidextrous finishing ability, and the quick reads to rifle passes before the defense has time to react. He had a 45-point breakout performance in February, but a back injury dogged him throughout his freshman year. The Bucks don’t have much going in the developmental department, so taking a big swing on Brown would make sense at this point of the draft. If Brown had stayed healthy, he might be going much higher. And maybe he’ll play his way into that through pre-draft workouts. But for now, the absences muddy the evaluation and leave real questions about his consistency that may not get answered until he’s fully healthy.
Steinbach played professionally in Germany before enrolling at Washington, and he’ll enter the NBA with some ready-made skills as an interior scorer and rebounder. He has massive hands that he uses to grab every possible rebound and finish effectively around the basket. He also showed legitimate touch on 3-pointers in flashes, which would turn him into a very different player if it becomes real. The Warriors could use a guy like him for the current era and the post-Steph future. However, Steinbach probably needs a Draymond Green type next to him in the frontcourt since he’s a bit of a modern tweener himself. Steinbach is not a true 7-footer, and there are specific matchups where he gets targeted in space. He needs to be the right kind of center for the right team.
Lopez is a forward out of Mexico who spent two seasons in the NBL's Next Stars program, averaging nearly 12 points and six rebounds. He's a smart cutter who finds scoring lanes within the flow of the offense, a solid shooter, and a versatile defender. That two-way versatility would work well with the Trail Blazers, especially with Jerami Grant and Jrue Holiday soon to age out of the team's plans. At only 19, Lopez still needs to improve his shot, but he’s battle-tested against professionals and projects as a winning player.
You could have watched every Tennessee game for two years and genuinely not known that Carr existed. Then he transferred to Baylor, and led the team in scoring, shot nearly 40% from 3 on high volume, and looked like a 3-and-D role player who also has tantalizing skills off the dribble. With NBA genes in his blood, as the son of former player Chris Carr, Cameron has the skills to make it in the NBA. But at 175 pounds with not a ton of games under his belt, he's going to get introduced to the NBA's physicality in a way that might limit his ability to get to his spots as a scorer. Thankfully the Heat have a strong strength and conditioning program to help a guy like Carr get in peak shape to handle the rigors of the league.
14. Memphis Grizzlies (via Orlando)
Labaron Philon, 6-4, Alabama sophomore guard
Philon is a shifty, score-first point guard who turned into one of the best guards in college basketball as a sophomore. He doubled his scoring output with buttery floaters, a deceptive handle, and a feel for running an offense, while also beginning to shore up the shooting questions that once clouded his projection. With Ja Morant likely on the way out, Philon would be a natural replacement, especially after the Grizzlies opted to go with Ament in the top 10. But he may require an adjustment period, just like he did at Alabama, since he’s still a below-the-rim athlete listed at 180 pounds.
Mullins hit one of the greatest buzzer-beaters in college basketball history to send Connecticut to the Final Four, but prior to that he was in the middle of a long cold streak, missing 47 of his previous 57 attempts from 3. Still, Mullins showed who he can be at his best in that moment: a confident shooter with limitless range, both off the catch and off one or two dribbles.
The Thunder have actually fallen to the middle of the pack in 3-point shooting, so adding a knockdown guy who can eventually play his way into the rotation would be useful. Mullins wouldn’t need to play right away either. He needs others to generate his looks, and he's listed at 196 pounds on a frame that will immediately get tested by NBA physicality. But if he can add strength and expand his creation even slightly, he starts to look like a lot more than a lethal shooter.
Michigan wouldn’t be in the Final Four if it weren’t for Lendeborg’s do-it-all ability. He fills the stat sheet, he can play multiple positions, and he has a 7-foot-4 wingspan at 240 pounds with a genuine handle. The issue is the 3-point shooting sits around 30% on his career and he'll be 24 as a rookie. But he goes through streaks where he’s draining a ton of 3s, like he has for all of March, that make him look like a future star. The Hornets wouldn’t necessarily need him to be a star with Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, and LaMelo Ball blossoming into a Big Three. But having another high upside guy wouldn’t hurt. And at worst, he can safely fill the role of a high-end role player.
17. Charlotte Hornets (via Phoenix)
Thomas Haugh, 6-9, Florida junior forward
Florida won the national title one year ago and Haugh was the guy doing all the work by diving on the floor, taking charges, screening hard, cutting through traffic, and running the break. Then this season he did all of that on top of becoming the team's offensive engine. But Florida wasn’t as dominant and flamed out in the Sweet 16 for a reason. Haugh hasn’t proven he can drive left or shoot off the dribble at any meaningful clip, and even the spot-up jumper is still a work in progress. Haugh’s work ethic is elite though, which is exactly what the Hornets would be betting on, just like with Lendeborg, for him to slide into a forward/wing spot alongside their star shot creators.
18. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Philadelphia)
Aday Mara, 7-3, Michigan junior center
The Thunder drafted center Thomas Sorber one year ago, which suggests they’re looking for a succession plan for Isaiah Hartenstein. But it wouldn’t hurt to have another option in the developmental system after Sorber was sidelined all of his rookie season thanks to surgery on his torn right ACL. Mara has become one of the best true 5s in the country for Michigan. He reads the floor like a guard, finishes with both hands, and swats shots with elite timing. The complication is he doesn't shoot well from outside, he makes below 60% of his free throws, and opponents are going to attack him on the perimeter. But size matters and the Thunder have a way of helping players improve their shots.
Stirtz feels the game at a different frequency than everyone else on the floor, and yet still makes scouts squint because he doesn't look the part athletically. At age 24 for a rookie, he’s also on the older end. The question isn't whether he can play though. After transferring from Drake to Iowa, he kept cooking with bullseye passes, pump-fakes, and shooting touch off the dribble from NBA range. The odds are that’ll carry over to the next level, especially if he lands on a team like the Raptors that can surround him with size, length, and versatility. And Toronto needs another engine to the offense; if Stirtz adjusts to the physicality and speed of the NBA, he could thrive as both a floor general or off-ball connector.
Karaban sprinted off a curl, caught the ball while moving away from the basket, turned, and then fired a massive 3-pointer in the closing minute of UConn’s epic comeback over Duke in the Elite 8. The moment is emblematic of his shooting ability, which would be a positive addition to the Spurs. But Karaban belongs in the top-20 range despite his age (he’ll be 24 as a rookie) because he can also bury smaller defenders in the post and make the smart choice as a cutter and passer. Even on the final play against Duke, Karaban, in what could’ve been his final moment at UConn, decided to pass the ball to a wide-open Braylon Mullins for the win.
He’s a similarly high-effort, high IQ player on the defensive end, which helps him overcome his average athleticism. He lacks the upside to be a star, but the Spurs have enough of those players. What they need is a connector who enhances the stars around him, and Karaban is one of the best in this draft class at doing just that.
Evans is a legitimate sharpshooter with the off-ball chops to thrive without even running any offense for himself, which is a perfect fit in Detroit, where Cade Cunningham needs live targets in the corners. The Pistons are 28th in 3-point attempts and 21st in 3-point percentage this season, so more shooters like Evans are needed who can spot up and run around screens. As a sophomore, Evans made great progress on-ball as well, so in the long-term he could have higher upside as a shot-creator. But to stay on the court as a young player, especially under head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, he’ll need to learn to get his hand up on defense.
Krivas is a 7-2 Lithuanian center who does the old-school things by rebounding, protecting the rim, and scoring in the post. But he also brings a modern flair with his ability to make good reads as a passer and the flashes he shows as a shooter. This would make him an ideal backup behind Joel Embiid. Krivas could anchor bench units when Embiid is healthy, and potentially play a bigger role when he’s not. The Sixers would be wise to target a big like this one because, no matter what happens with Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe are both young pieces who need a big man to support them. Krivas has all the tools needed.
23. Atlanta Hawks (via Cleveland)
Chris Cenac, 6-11, Houston freshman big
If Cenac gets feedback that he’ll be a late first-round pick, he very well might just go back to Houston for his sophomore year. There’s a reason why he might end up in this range though. He checks every box on paper as a superb athlete who moves like a wing, has the length to alter shots, and has a habit for shooting from the perimeter. But the Cougars fell short again, in part because Cenac struggled to stay out of foul trouble, couldn’t score efficiently, and was overeager to play on the perimeter despite having the body of a bruiser. If the Hawks draft him, he’s more of a developmental project. But there’s no harm in taking a swing when the roster has roles already occupied, especially after grabbing a point guard in the lottery.
Peyton Watson will enter free agency this summer, so the Nuggets might need to fortify the forward spot. Swain makes perfect sense as a target. He played two competent seasons at Xavier, transferred to Texas, and somehow became the most efficient isolation scorer in the entire country. He's relentless getting to the rim, creative as a finisher, and active enough defensively to project as a switchable wing. But the reason he lives at the rim is because his jump shot is genuinely ugly. He has stiff mechanics, bad percentages, and a reluctance to even attempt it that goes all the way back to high school. Until his shooting becomes a credible threat, defenses are going to pack the paint and dare him to beat them from the outside. But the Nuggets can afford to be patient, deciding to bet on his soft touch, with the hopes that he someday becomes a reliable shooter. Just like Watson.
Peat's bloodline is so loaded with offensive linemen that it's almost funny he ended up playing basketball. His father played nine NFL seasons. His uncle was a Pro Bowl tackle. Two brothers played college ball on the line. And you can absolutely see it in how he plays: powerful, physical, relentless, and it genuinely takes something special to stop him from getting to where he wants to go. He opened the season with a 30-point game against defending champion Florida and backed it up as one of Arizona's best players all year on its way to the Final Four. The Knicks need big bodies like him around Jalen Brunson. And since Peat can’t shoot yet, it’ll be important that he’s paired with a floor-spacing center like Karl-Anthony Towns. So even though he entered the year with top-10 hopes, it might be a blessing in disguise for him to fall to the end of the first round.
The Lakers are finding out how good Deandre Ayton can look when he’s hustling. But there’s no guarantee it’ll be sustained, and they need a better long-term answer anyway. Ngongba does the dirty work without complaining about it: set screens, run the floor, make the right read, protect the rim, and do it all again the next play and the one after that. Ngongba did it as the backbone of one of the best teams in the country before a foot issue derailed the end of his season, which played a factor in Duke’s inability to reach the Final Four. He had two screws placed in his right foot during high school, then had lingering issues in his left foot as a freshman before his right foot became an issue again as a sophomore. Those injuries are why Ngongba could be available at the end of the first round.
Michigan is filled with so much star power that Johnson is the guy who often gets overlooked nationally. He’s a 250-pound wrecking ball with surprisingly soft hands and the defensive IQ to guard 1 through 5 in a switch-heavy scheme. And he makes constant plays beyond the box score with bone-crushing screens, full-court sprints, and high IQ rotations that blow up the opponent’s action. The Celtics have targeted team-first guys like Johnson in recent years, so he’d fit the profile here after proving himself as the connective tissue of the best team in the country. He isn’t quite big enough to be a true center and not yet proven enough as a shooter to guarantee he spaces the floor. But the Celtics can be patient and are proving to have a strong developmental program to help resolve any concerns.
Christian Anderson, 6-3, Texas Tech sophomore guard
Anderson showed up at Texas Tech as the 101st-ranked recruit and has played his way into the first round behind dynamic pick-and-roll creation and knockdown perimeter shooting. Mike Conley isn’t getting any younger in Minnesota, Rob Dillingham is gone, and Bones Hyland is no guarantee to stay next season. That’s where Anderson could help right away with his ability to thrive with and without the ball. At his small stature, he hasn’t shown a consistent ability to get to the rim with any regularity, though, and he struggled to create his own shot when Texas Tech lost in the tournament. Any small guard will always be a target on defense, too, so there’s a lot of pressure on his shot translating to the next level. But at least he’d have long-armed wings and bigs around him as support in Minnesota.
Quaintance is going to get drafted based almost entirely on what he looked like before his knee exploded. As a freshman at Arizona State, he was blocking everything in sight, showing defensive instincts and mobility that players with his 6-10 frame aren't supposed to have, and he was 17 years old doing it. Then came the ACL, the meniscus, the fractured knee, the transfer to Kentucky, persistent swelling, and a shutdown for the remainder of his sophomore season. Now teams have to make a decision after 28 games of great defense and eyesore offense. He might not fall this far. But if he does, it’d make perfect sense for the Cavaliers to scoop him up since he could operate as a backup to Jarrett Allen and as a small-ball center next to Evan Mobley.
30. Dallas Mavericks (via Oklahoma City)
Tarris Reed, 6-11, UConn senior center
Reed was a projected second-round pick entering the tournament, and could very well still find himself in that range since he’s a senior who will be 23 as a rookie. But he brings throwback big skills as an interior bruiser, rebounder, and shot-blocker. And now those qualities are translating to pure dominance on the biggest stage against the toughest opponents, which could put him in the late-first round conversation. He had 31 points in the opening round, then 20 against Michigan State, and 26 on just 16 shots against Duke's frontline to help the Huskies punch their ticket to the Final Four. If he shines against a loaded Illinois frontcourt, he could keep solidifying his stock. And for a team like the Mavericks, that has to have appeal. Daniel Gafford hasn’t played over 60 games yet in Dallas, and Dereck Lively hasn’t proven he can stay healthy at all.
Wearing a blue golf shirt and battling a case of the hiccups, Tiger Woods left the scene of his March 27 rollover crash in the back seat of a law enforcement officer's vehicle, body camera footage from the Martin County (Florida) sheriff's office shows.
Woods said nothing and appeared to briefly fall asleep during the 17-minute video.
The footage, obtained by the USA TODAY Network on April 2, provides additional insight into the aftermath of the crash that left Woods and the sole occupant of the vehicle hit by Woods' SUV unhurt. Woods was arrested and jailed on suspicion of driving under the influence after he failed a field sobriety test.
Officers on scene said Woods was "sweating profusely" while they questioned him at the scene. They also said they found two hydrocodone painkiller pills in Woods' pocket at his time of arrest, according to the arrest affidavit obtained March 31 by USA TODAY.
View body camera footage of Tiger Woods' arrest
The arresting officer said that Woods' eyes were "bloodshot and glassy" as he performed a variety of field sobriety tests at the crash site. Woods told officers that he was looking down at his cell phone and changing the radio station immediately before the crash.
Woods passed a breath test that showed he didn't have alcohol in his system at the time of the crash, police said, but refused to submit to a urinalysis test at the county jail and told deputies that he had taken painkillers earlier in the day.
Woods, 50, was charged with DUI and failure to submit to a DUI test following the two-vehicle crash on Jupiter Island, where he has a home. He was taken into custody following the crash and subsequently released at 11:11 p.m. March 27 on $1,150 bail.
Judge approves Tiger Woods' request to seek treatment outside US
"Based upon the Defendant's treating physician, the out of country treatment facility recommendation is based upon the Defendant's complex clinical presentation and the urgent need for a level of care that cannot be safely of effectively done within the United States as his privacy has been repeatedly compromised," the request, obtained by USA TODAY Sports, read.
It went on to say that the unnamed facility "will provide continuous monitoring and the ability to rapidly adjust treatment interventions in a highly controlled environment."
March 27, 2026: In a two-vehicle crash near his Florida home, Woods clipped a trailer from behind, flipping his Land Rover on its side. He was charged with DUI and failure to submit to a DUI test.
February 23, 2021: Woods was behind the wheel in Los Angeles County when his SUV failed to navigate a curve in the road and went barreling in the median and into the opposite lane before hitting a tree and rolling over. Woods broke bones in his leg and was found unconscious. He was not charged or issued any traffic citation.
May 29, 2017: Woods was found by police asleep at the wheel of a black Mercedes around 3 a.m. in Jupiter, Florida, with the car's brake lights on and turn signal blinking. A toxicology report showed he had five drugs in his system at the time: Vicodin, Dilaudid, Xanax, Ambien and THC. He was charged with driving under the influence and pleaded guilty to reckless driving.
November 27, 2009: Woods was driving his Cadillac Escalade when it hit a row of hedges and a fire hydrant outside his Windermere, Florida, mansion. A neighbor reported seeing Woods unconscious and snoring, according to a police report. He was cited for careless driving and fined $164. That incident came less than two days after the first public revelation of what would become a full-blown sex scandal with Woods at the center.
COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND - FEBRUARY 25: Kat Righeimer #8 of the Northwestern Wildcats handles the ball against the Maryland Terrapins at Xfinity Center on February 25, 2026 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Before Kat Righeimer buried a three-pointer from two steps behind the arc against Penn State in February, a shot good enough to draw a comparison to Kobe Bryant from my colleague Jack Spector, the guard had spent the better part of her two collegiate seasons deep in the rotation.
The 6-foot-1 guard out of Costa Mesa, California first in Evanston in the fall of 2024 with a résumé that demanded attention. In her four years on the varsity squad at Sage Hill School, Righeimer averaged 11 points and five rebounds per game every season of her prep career and helped lead the Lightning to a California Division II State Championship. In that time, she had also trained at the fabled Mamba Sports Academy under the mentorship of the aforementioned Kobe Bryant.
Even so, she walked on her freshman year at Northwestern and was mostly invisible from the outside with little minutes, rarely playing more than 10 minutes. But last season in a January game against rival Illinois, she was able to score her first collegiate points with perfect efficiency, going 3-of-3 from the field which was good for seven points and also grabbing four rebounds, dishing out two assists and getting a steal in just 13 minutes. Despite the game coming in a 35-point loss to the Illini, it was enough of a glimpse for Northwestern to reward her with a scholarship ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Righeimer continued her sophomore campaign, however, the same way she did the year prior. In the first nine games, she averaged just under five minutes per contest, only able to fit in when the situation allowed. Her highlight of the first half of the season was a 22-minute outing at George Washington in December — where she had five points, two steals and two blocks — which was largely due to the absence of Grace Sullivan. All in all, Righeimer had only logged a total of 54 minutes and scored just 12 total points in that time on the floor.
Righeimer’s opportunity started to arise when starter Tayla Thomas went down early in a game against USC on Feb. 5, playing just six minutes in the game. Coach Joe McKeown decided to turn towards Righeimer, and she delivered. In 18 minutes against the Trojans, she scored six points and grabbed six big rebounds, providing enough of a shift that led to Northwestern outscoring USC by seven in the second half of a game they lost by 18. While not enough to change the result of the game, it was enough to change her role. In the final seven games of the season, Righeimer jumped up to an average of 4.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and an impressive 38.5% from deep on a team that lacked shooting.
The highlight of her season came on Feb. 15 at Penn State. Up to that point, she had just 18 total points scored on the season. In that game, Righeimer matched that point total, going for a career-high 18 points on 5-for-6 shooting, 3-for-4 from three and 5-for-6 from the line. She was Northwestern’s leading scorer in an 81-71 loss where the Wildcats clawed back from 20 to three in the final minute of the game before the Nittany Lions won the foul game.
While we’ve yet to see what the roster will look like in 2026-27, Righeimer made a good case to new head coach Carla Berube, showing promise in those final six games. For a program that’s undergoing its first big transition after 18 years of McKeown, that kind of player — one who waited, worked and delivered when opportunity arrived — could be exactly what Berube is looking for.
Mar 29, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; UConn Huskies forward Tarris Reed Jr. (5) celebrates after defeating the Duke Blue Devils in an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images | Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Thanks to a legendary shot from Braylon Mullins, UConn men’s basketball is heading to their eighth Final Four this weekend in Indianapolis. It’s the team’s third Final Four in the last four years, meaning the Huskies have a shot at three national titles in that same span.
But unlike 2023 and 2024, UConn is far from a favorite to cut down the nets in Indy. The Huskies are underdogs in their Final Four matchup against Illinois and have the lowest national title odds out of any team left standing. Of course, UConn was also dead in the water against Duke until they weren’t. All four teams left standing in Indianapolis could easily win the national championship, and the Huskies will need to run that gauntlet in order to secure their seventh title.
Here’s two reasons why UConn can win it all once again, and a few reasons why they can’t.
Why UConn can win the national championship
Championship DNA
It sounds corny, but it does matter a lot that UConn has so many guys that have done this before. Alex Karaban has won more NCAA tournament games than just about anybody. Solo Ball, Jaylin Stewart and Jayden Ross have been to the Final Four before and logged minutes. And then there’s Dan Hurley, maybe the best coach in the sport, who has coached the Huskies to back-to-back titles. Following UConn’s epic comeback against Duke, Hurley mentioned that the team’s winning culture allowed them to stay composed and chip away at what felt like an impossible task.
“It takes strong men. It takes a strong team. It takes a tough team. It takes strong men. It takes a bunch of players that let us coach them, let us coach them hard. That starts in June. We run a very intense program,” Hurley said after the Duke game.
“We put a lot of pressure on them on a daily basis to do the right things, to do everything at game speed, to do everything hard, to do everything tough, to be prepared because that’s what it takes to win games like this or to stay in a game like that where you’re getting outplayed.”
UConn may not be the most talented team left on paper, but the experience with the rhythms of the Final Four may be the edge the Huskies need.
Tarris Reed’s ascension
Tarris Reed is otherworldly right now. While he put the tournament on notice with his 31-point, 27-board double-double in the First Round against Furman, his performance against Duke was his best game yet. The former Michigan transfer had 26 points, nine rebounds and four blocks against the Blue Devils, singlehandedly keeping UConn in contention in the first half.
Tarris Reed with one of the greatest runs to a Final Four you will ever see:
31 points, 27 rebounds, 3 assists vs Furman 10 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks vs UCLA 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists vs MSU 26 points, 9 rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 assists, 2 steals vs Duke
There’s just no other big man left playing at Reed’s level right now. If he can keep it going, he gives the Huskies an undeniable advantage in the post that few teams will be able to stop. The parallels (and stats) to Adama Sanogo’s 2023 title run are eerily similar.
Adama Sanogo in his 2023 NCAAT Run:
19.7 PPG 9.8 RPG 1.3 APG 1.3 Blocks PG 61% FG 76% FT
Tarris Reed Jr. in the 2026 NCAAT:
19.5 PPG 10.8 RPG 2.6 APG 2.5 Blocks PG 68% FG 71% FT
Aside from Reed, UConn’s 3-point shooting has been a serious issue. The Huskies are just 27-93 (29 percent) from three during the NCAA tournament. Granted, the Huskies did hit threes when it mattered against Duke, but another cold shooting weekend likely means an early Final Four exit. If Mullins, Karaban and Solo Ball aren’t able to hit from deep, teams will be more willing to double Reed in the post and pack the paint.
UConn also has some history going against them. Nineteen of the last 21 national champions had an offensive efficiency inside the top 10. The Huskies currently rank 28th and have no shot moving into the top 10 no matter how the offense performs against Illinois. Michigan, Arizona and the Illini all are within the top five in offensive efficiency, with the Illinois ranking first.
The silver lining? UConn has been the exception to the rule, with the 2011 and 2014 title teams breaking the mold. The Huskies’ offense this season ranks higher than both of those squads, and the defense is still one of the best in the country at No. 9 in defensive efficiency.
19 of the last 21 champs had a top-10 KenPom offense.
If that trend holds, UConn (28) isn’t cutting down the nets.
Illinois (1), Arizona (4), Michigan (5) fit the profile.
Silas Demary Jr. had some key baskets in the Duke comeback, but the Georgia transfer is still recovering from an ankle injury he suffered in the Big East Tournament title game. He played only 23 minutes in the Elite Eight and the same amount in Sweet 16. If the Huskies want to cut down the nets in Indy, Demary Jr. needs to be healthy enough to play more minutes. As the team’s top perimeter defender, his size and length are crucial to shutting down the elite offense left in the tournament. While Malachi Smith has been excellent filling in for Demary, this team is still at his best when Demary is healthy and Hurley has maximum roster flexibility.
The same can be said for Jaylin Stewart, who missed eight games with a knee injury before returning last weekend. Stewart was more banged up than Demary, totaling just eight minutes in Washington D.C., and will likely still be banged up in Indianapolis. Stewart’s size and versatility made him a mainstay in some of the Huskies’ most efficient lineups this season, and would be massive asset to have against the size the Illini and either Arizona or Michigan offer. With him likely still hurt, Hurley will have to pick and choose his minutes wisely. Against competition this good, it is a massive disadvantage to not have the roster at full strength.
Florida State brought in Herb Hand before last season to get the offensive line corrected, and the unit was better as a whole because of it. He did another revamping this offseason, and he brought in a ton of experience.
The Seminoles are rolling along in their spring program as practices and scrimmages are taking place. According to Pete Nakos of On3, FSU likes what they're seeing so far from the offensive line.
Florida State has been encouraged by its offensive line to this point, too. As one source told On3, “we’re very excited about what we added on the offensive line.” Purdue transfer Bradyn Joiner and Bowling Green transfer Nate Pabst will immediately contribute, and Stephen F. Austin offensive tackle Chimdia Nwaiwu “has done a nice job” and will push for playing time at right tackle.
Auburn offensive lineman Xavier Chaplin was arguably the biggest offseason pickup on the offensive line. A source told On3 that Florida State has been impressed with his toughness. He’s expected to start at left tackle and elevate his game against ACC competition.
Joiner was originally at Auburn. After redshirting as a freshman, he would play in 10 games for the Tigers in 2024 at left guard and logged five starts. In his one season at Purdue, Joiner started all 12 games at center. At the moment, he's battling redshirt freshman Chavez Thompson for starting center duties.
Pabst has starting experience at both guard and tackle spots. With Florida State, the focus has been at right guard with some work at right tackle as well. Nwaiwu is getting more of the starting reps at right tackle while Pabst learns more about the position.
Chaplin played his first three years at Virginia Tech. He would gain 25 games of starting experience at left tackle over his last two seasons with the Hokies. In Chaplin's one season at Auburn, he started 12 games at left tackle. So, it's easy to see why the massive 6-foot-7, 348-pounder has solidified the left tackle spot.
Troy transfer Paul Bowling is also in the mix. He has experience at guard and center, but he's primarily worked at guard during the spring.
With a new starting quarterback taking over in 2026, it's vastly important for FSU to get the offensive line right, especially with Kevin Sperry and Ashton Daniels battling it out.
Contact/Follow us @FSUWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida State news, notes and opinions. You can also follow Matthew on X @StarConscience
Ohio State’s baseball team looks like they are starting to find their rhythm. Following a brutal stretch at the end of February and beginning of March that saw the Buckeyes lose eight games in a row, now Justin Haire’s team has won their last four games, and eight of their last nine contests.
After winning just 13 games in his first season as Ohio State’s head coach in 2025, Haire and the Buckeyes are now 14-13 this season.
The latest of those victories was a 10-5 triumph over Toledo on Tuesday night, which came on the heels of Ohio State’s three-game sweep at Minnesota over the weekend, which marked the first Big Ten sweep for the Buckeyes since the end of the 2023 regular season when they took three games from Michigan.
The game against the Rockets at Bill Davis Stadium kicked off a nine-game home stand.
Toledo jumped out to an early lead, holding a 3-0 advantage after two innings. Ohio State’s offense got going in the fourth inning, scoring five runs to take their first lead of the game when two runs scored on a single by Henry Kaczmar.
The Buckeye shortstop had two hits in the game and now has a 15-game hitting streak. Kaczmar leads the team with a .336 average and 59 total bases this season.
The Rockets tied the game back up at 5-5 in the sixth inning on a two-run single, but the score wasn’t knotted for long. In the bottom of the inning Ohio State took the lead for good on a passed ball which allowed Miles Vandenheuvel to score.
The Buckeyes added to their lead when Alex Bemis crushed a three-run homer to center field. The big fly was the fifth on the season for Bemis, tying him with Kaczmar, Miles Eckelman, and Dane Harvey for the team lead.
Ryan Butler started Tuesday’s contest for the Buckeyes, pitching the first three innings, which was the longest of his four starts so far this season. After Butler departed from the game, five other pitchers combined to finish out the game for the Buckeyes.
Jake Michalak ended up being credited with the victory, his fourth win of the season. Michalak is one of four Ohio State relievers to appear in at least 10 games this season and currently hold an ERA under 4.00. The others are Andrew Edrington, Luke Carrell, and Ryan Zamora.
Starting the three-game series against Maryland this weekend will likely be Gavin Kuzniewski, Pierce Herrenbruck, and Chris Domke. Kuzniewski has been the ace of the staff with a 2-1 record, 4.29 ERA, and 41 strikeouts in 35.2 innings pitched.
The sophomore from Indiana had a complete game shutout earlier in the season when he pitched seven innings in the 11-0 win over Butler that was called early due to the mercy rule. Herrenbruck also has a 2-1 record with a 4.50 ERA.
On the offensive side, the other batter aside from Henry Kaczmar with an average over .300 is catcher Mason Eckelman, who is batting .303 through 27 games. Along with being tied for the team lead with five home runs, Eckelman leads the team with 33 runs batted in.
The 54 bases has accumulated on the season is second on the team behind Kaczmar. The other Buckeyes who have totaled at least 40 bases this year are Noah Furcht, Harvey, Bemis, and Lee Ellis.
This weekend Ohio State will host Maryland, who has a 13-15 record on the season. The Terrapins have won the majority of their games this year in non-conference play, as they enter this weekend’s games with just a 2-7 record in the Big Ten, which is tied for last in the conference.
By comparison, the Buckeyes are 4-5 in Big Ten play, which is tied for eighth in the conference with Rutgers.
The Terrapins are slumping entering the three-game series in Columbus, having lost six of their last eight games. Some of the reason for the recent poor play can be attributed to playing UCLA and USC, who took five of six games from Maryland. The Terrapins did receive a bit of a confidence boost on Tuesday when they routed Richmond 19-4 in seven innings in College Park.
One player Ohio State’s pitchers will have to be careful with this weekend is Ryan Costello. The redshirt freshman has socked 11 home runs and driven in 34 runs, both of which are the highest marks on the team. Brayden Martin and Rylen Stockton are also dangerous hitters for the Terrapins, with both hitters totaling over 50 bases so far this season.
With their recent success at the plate, Ohio State should be able to knock around the Maryland pitchers. As a group, the hurlers for the Terrapins have a 7.39 ERA and a 1.79 WHIP. On the other side, the Buckeye pitchers have a 5.74 ERA and a 1.61 WHIP.
Ohio State should be able to continue their recent hot streak and take at least two of three from Maryland this weekend and possibly move a little higher in the Big Ten standings.
The New York Giants struck deals in free agency that rival those of the other 31 teams in the NFL this offseason.
Sports Illustrated recently ranked the Giants' additions of tight end Isaiah Likely and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds as two of the top 50 signings in free agency.
The Giants had room at tight end once the offseason began. They addressed the need by signing Likely to a three-year, $40 million deal. The Coastal Carolina product was lauded as the 19th-best signing of free agency.
It’s a Ravens reunion in New York as John Harbaugh improves his offense by bringing his former tight end to the Giants.
Likely recorded 307 receiving yards last season with the Baltimore Ravens. He posted a career-high 477 yards and six receiving touchdowns in 2025.
Edmunds was ranked No. 36 among the top free agent signings thus far this year.
The Giants added Edmunds to a new-look defense under coordinator Dennard Wilson and coach John Harbaugh. The 27-year-old is a two-time Pro Bowler and tallied 14 interceptions and 8.5 sacks throughout his career with both the Bills and Bears.
The Virginia native signed a three-year, $36 million deal with the Giants last winter. Edmunds ranked No. 3 in the NFL in interceptions last season with four. He also recorded a sack on the year as a member of the Chicago Bears.
There's plenty beyond basketball to keep you busy with fan events and concerts popping up across downtown Indy to mark the April 4 and 6 games at Lucas Oil Stadium — plus the Division II, Division III and NIT championships taking place back-to-back-to-back at Gainbridge Fieldhouse April 5.
Concerts featuring Twenty One Pilots, Zac Brown Band, Post Malone and Megan Moroney are the headliners. There will be an additional music festival, a dribbling contest through the city and what the NCAA is dubbing a multi-day “sports wonderland” at the Indiana Convention Center are on tap for the extended Final Four weekend. Here’s your guide to everything downtown will have to offer.
More than 200 local artists, performers, vendors and chefs will be part of the family-friendly festival, where visitors can grab free commemorative posters and postcards by Herron School of Art and Design students. The Indy Arts Council, Indiana Sports Corp, Forty5 Presents, Ganggang, Epicurean Indy, and the Local Organizing Committee for the 2026 NCAA Men’s Final Four are putting on the celebrations. Events include:
Noon-6 p.m. each day: Live music performances by central Indiana musicians, dancers and spoken-word poets at Monument Circle, 1 Virginia Ave., PNC Plaza, Starbucks at 30 S. Meridian St. and sites to be announced
Sidewalk Galleries: Vinyl-wrapped storefront murals and poems as well as mural-wrapped traffic signal boxes and art installations at the Indianapolis International Airport
11 a.m.-4 p.m. April 4: Epicurean Market and MOKAO, with more than 50 vendors an international market with food, artisan coffee and chocolate. At the Stutz, 1060 N. Capitol Ave. epicureanindy.com
Sampson Levingston will lead walk and talk tours about college basketball history in downtown's Mile Square. Reserve free tickets at tinyurl.com/3sdknyc9
March 27-April 4: The Asante Art Institute will present the play "A Touch of Glory" about the 1955 Crispus Attucks Tigers, the first all-black school in the country to win a high school basketball state championship. At the Basile Theatre at the Athenaeum, 401 E. Michigan St. $30-$45.
Final Four Fan Fest
April 3-6. Indiana Convention Center, 100 S. Capitol Ave. $10 tickets until March 29, $15 during event week. Tickets here and more info here.
The Indiana Convention Center will host games, activations, music, celebrity appearances and more throughout the Final Four extended weekend. Free entry for kids under 12 (with accompanying purchase of adult ticket), Final Four game ticketholders, military personnel, college students with valid school ID and Capital One cardholders.
April 3: noon-6 p.m.
April 4: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
April 5: noon-6 p.m.
April 6: noon-8 p.m.
Final Four Friday
April 3, 10 a.m.-3:35 p.m. Lucas Oil Stadium, 500 S. Capitol Ave. Free entry. More info here.
Lucas Oil Stadium will open its doors for a USA Basketball 3x3 exhibition game Friday morning, followed by open practices from the Final Four teams. Final Four Friday will conclude with the National Association of Basketball Coaches All-Star Game, featuring the top seniors in Division I basketball. All-Star players will also sign autographs at the South End of Lucas Oil near section 138.
March Madness Music Festival
April 3-5. American Legion Mall, 700 N. Pennsylvania St. Free entry. More info here.
Downtown’s American Legion Mall will host a three-day music festival with a lineup of major artists and performers. The festival will kick off April 3 with the AT&T Block Party, followed by Coca Cola Live April 4 and the Capital One JamFest finale April 5. Alternative duo Twenty One Pilots, country group Zac Brown Band and a double bill of country hip-hop superstar Post Malone and surging pop country star Megan Moroney will headline April 3, 4 and 5, respectively.
The NCAA has also announced a Madness After Dark event, which will feature a DJ set from EDM duo The Chainsmokers, to take place after the April 4 performances. The event will run from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Indiana Rooftop Ballroom, located at 140 W. Washington St.
Men’s Final Four Dribble
April 5 at 1 p.m. Carroll Stadium (1001 W. New York St.) to Victory Field (501 W. Maryland St.). Free registration. Registration here and more info here.
Participants 18 and under will dribble a basketball along a one-mile course from IU Indianapolis' Carroll Stadium to Victory Field. The first 3,000 to register will receive a t-shirt, basketball and free entry to the Final Four Fan Fest.
Men’s Final Four Tip-Off Tailgate
April 3-6. 126 E. Georgia St. Free entry. More info here.
Downtown Indianapolis will offer free watch parties for both the Men’s and Women’s Final Four along Georgia Street. The festivities will also include games, activations and giveaways.
April 3: 4-11 p.m.
April 4: 1-11 p.m.
April 5: noon-6 p.m.
April 6: 4-11 p.m.
Contact IndyStar Pop Culture Reporter Heather Bushman at hbushman@usatodayco.com. Follow her on X @hmb_1013.
BRADENTON, FL - MARCH 20: Konnor Griffin #75 of the Pittsburgh Pirates stands on the field to receive the 2025 Minor League Baseball Rawlings Gold Glove Award prior to the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Pittsburgh Pirates at LECOM Park on Friday, March 20, 2026 in Bradenton, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Konnor Griffin, Pittsburgh Pirates minor league shortstop and consensus #1 prospect in MLB, is being promoted to the big leagues, per multiple reports.
Griffin, who turns 20 later this month, was the #9 pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. He split the 2025 season between low-A, high-A and AA, putting up a .333/.415/.527 slash line between the three levels and stealing 65 bases in 78 attempts. In five games at AAA to start the 2026 season, he slashed .438/.571/.625.
While Griffin spent most of the 2025 season playing shortstop, he also played center field, and the sense seems to be that he would be very good at either position. Jared Triolo has started the first five games of the season at shortstop for the Pirates, but he’s not a long-term solution at the position, and Griffin will presumably take over as the team’s regular shortstop.
There was talk that Griffin might start the season in the majors for 2026. The Pirates’ home opener is Friday, and it may be that the Pirates wanted him to make his major league debut at home. Calling him up now rather than at the start of the season doesn’t change anything from a team control perspective, and the team and Griffin have reportedly been engaging in discussions on a long-term contract, which would moot team control issues anyway.
Missouri defensive end Zion Young rushes the Oklahoma quarterback. | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The group of edge defenders in the 2026 NFL Draft is surprisingly deep. Three of the top players in the draft will be selected as edge defenders, and we could see 10 OLBs, EDGEs, or DEs drafted inside the Top 50.
Missouri defensive end Zion Young generated buzz for himself with a strong week at the 2026 Senior Bowl, however he seems to have slipped back under the radar a bit as the draft process has worn on. However, he brings good size, play strength, technique, and toughness to the table.
At least for the right team.
The New York Giants don’t currently have a need — or much of an opening — for a highly drafted edge defender. However, several of their opponents in the NFC East could use a player like Young, so he is worth getting to know.
Prospect: Zion Young (9) Games Watched: vs. South Carolina (2025), vs. Alabama (2025), vs. Oklahoma (2025)
Measurables
Strengths
Best traits
Frame
Play strength
Snap timing
First step
Hand usage
Run defense
Competitive toughness
Zion Young is a big, powerful, technically sound, and tough defensive end prospect.
Young has a good frame for a 7-technique defensive end at 6-foot-5, 262 pounds, and 33-inch arms. He has good thickness in his upper and lower halves with plenty of power while still retaining a good burst off the line of scrimmage. Young is still relatively, well, young at 22 years old and could add another 5 or 10 pounds of mass as he continues to mature without it having a significant impact on his athleticism.
He features a good get-off, built on his ability to anticipate the snap. While there are some instances where the snap catches Young off guard, he is often one of the very first players moving at the snap of the ball. He gains good ground with his first and second steps, and has the pass rush technique to keep himself clean as he engages with blockers.
Young is a savvy rusher who consistently comes with a pass rush plan, using a smart selection of “finesse” moves to complement and counter his foundation of power moves. For instance, he will set up with a bull rush before using a two-hand swipe to clear blockers’ hands, or use a long-arm or club-rip move to maintain his leverage while moving into the backfield. He also has enough mass and power to effectively rush as an interior defender in obvious passing downs.
Young is already a good run defender, using his hands to keep himself clean to make plays in the backfield, as well as his strength to make plays off of blockers. He’s quick to diagnose run or pass, is disciplined in his gap assignments, and is a high-motor player in pursuit.
Weaknesses
Worst traits
Athleticism
Pass rush
Bend
The single biggest weakness in Zion Young’s profile is an overall lack of athleticism. He is simply a limited athlete, at least when compared to most modern edge defenders.
Young has a solid initial burst and a good get-off, however he lacks a second gear to continue to gain ground after his second or third step. He doesn’t have the speed to chase down many ball carriers, or quarterbacks, from behind, nor consistently win with speed off the edge.
He will likely need to be a power-first pass rusher at the NFL level, and lacks the ability to consistently threaten offensive tackles with speed off the edge. That will limit his ability to force over-sets and create openings for inside moves, or stress tackles’ footwork to create opportunities to win with speed-to-power.
Likewise, he has some lower-body stiffness that can limit his ability to bend a tight corner, win high-side, or consistently carry his speed into the backfield. There’s a bit of a tendency in Young’s tape to pop up and play upright rather than try to bend and lose his footing.
Game Tape
(Young is the Missouri defensive end wearing number 9 with white tape on the backs of his arms. )
Projection
Zion Young projects as an important rotational edge defender who could become a starter for a team that primarily plays 4-3 fronts.
Teams that run modern “multiple” style defenses that use true EDGE defenders who blur the lines between outside linebacker and defensive end could view Young as a rotational player and a short-yardage defender. However, teams that play a 4-3 Under defense could view him as a potential, or even likely, starter.
Young will (probably) never be a true sack artist in the NFL. He lacks the raw speed and bend to consistently win quickly and generate pressure before the quarterback can get the ball out. However, his technique and motor will lead to production, and make him a player coaches like and feel good about being on the field.
He’s more than the sum of his parts and could hear his name called earlier than many are expecting.
Does he fit the Giants? Probably not
Final Word: An early second or late first round pick
In recent years, the women’s roster has become one of the most compelling parts of WWE. On some nights, it doesn’t just compete with the men’s division, it steals the show. But like any roster, it comes in waves. There are times when a performer is hotter than fish grease, and times when, in the words of Randy Savage, they are “too cold to hold.” And that’s what makes this time of year so interesting.
Because from the Royal Rumble to WrestleMania, WWE starts to feel a lot like the NBA playoffs, with ‘Mania being where everyone is competing to win the Larry O'Brien. Momentum builds for some, the positions shift, and the best of the best end up at the “Showcase of the Immortals.” So, if WrestleMania is the Finals, the question becomes simple: What does the playoff picture look like right now? Who’s surging toward the top of the bracket? Who might be waiting in the seventh or eighth spot, positioned to push?
So I took a step back, looked at the WWE women’s division as it stands right now. I analyzed, agonized and did my best to map it out. I asked who’s up, who’s down and how the seeding would shake out in this version of wrestling’s March Madness.
No. 8 Seed: Tiffany Stratton
Tiffany Stratton had her crowning moment — quite literally — at last year’s WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas, where she defeated Charlotte Flair and successfully retained the WWE Women’s Championship.
She followed that up with a Last Woman Standing brawl with Nia Jax on “SmackDown,” teamed with Trish Stratus at Elimination Chamber 2025, and later faced Stratus again at Evolution. Stratton then battled the Queen of the Ring Jade Cargill at SummerSlam and walked away victorious, before eventually losing the title to Cargill at Saturday Night’s Main Event in October.
Right now, Stratton still feels like a major star on the roster — but there has been a bit of a plateau for her recently. As Women’s Champion, she had strong matches and standout moments. But when she lost the championship to Jade Cargill, it didn’t feel shocking — it felt inevitable, and as if it was no longer “Tiffy time.”
So where could Stratton end up at WrestleMania 42? The WWE Women’s United States Championship seems to just be floating around the waist of Giulia, and there hasn’t been a huge spotlight put on the title in recent weeks. The seeds of the rivalry have been planted, but will we see a WrestleMania match between these two?
Stratton is no doubt one of the biggest new-era stars WWE has, and reminds me of Jayson Tatum, a young talent seemingly given the franchise, but who just hasn’t taken over the entire league yet.
Given the current landscape, the No. 8 seed feels right.
No. 7 Seed: Becky Lynch
In my hoops analogy, Becky Lynch is Steph Curry.
She’s always exciting. She keeps every match interesting. And at any moment during the year, she can catch fire and go on a run where she simply doesn’t miss.
Since returning at last year’s WrestleMania 41 and turning heel the following night, Lynch has done something remarkable: She elevated a secondary championship into a meaningful prize.
When she won the Women’s Intercontinental Championship from Lyra Valkyria, Lynch immediately gave the title credibility. And when she shockingly lost it to Maxxine Dupri, it did even more.
That moment made Dupri look like a star overnight. It increased the importance of the championship, and Lynch’s visible frustration and obsession with regaining it made the title feel like more than just a trophy, but her Holy Grail. Those moments turned Becky Lynch’s 2025 — and early 2026 — into one of the most compelling stories on the women’s roster.
That’s why she lands at the No. 7 seed.
No. 6 Seed: The Bella Twins
Alright, I already know some of you have read that the Bellas are on the list and have immediately disregarded and discredited this list in its entirety. However, I am here to tell you that the Bella Twins deserve to be where they are at this current juncture in time.
Brie Bella and Nikki Bella are back for the Road to WrestleMania 42.
WWE via Getty Images
The name Nikki Bella still means something, even if she hasn’t worn the top title in over a decade — similar to Dwayne Wade, a star who is more well-known teaming up with a partner (i.e., Shaq or LeBron), but is still lethal bringing the ball up the court herself.
Whether you love, hate, or are indifferent about her, Nikki is without a doubt one of the most popular female superstars in the history of the WWE. The longest reigning Divas Champion of all time, a Hall of Famer for good reason, still throwing 100 miles an hour into her 40s, and she does something that very few other people in the women’s division in history have done … remain over and relevant inside and outside the wrestling bubble.
And in concert with her sister Brie Bella, they brought in a new audience to wrestling. People might have short-term memory loss, but what the Bellas were able to do with “Total Divas” throughout the 2010s was invite in a young female audience who was engaged with the product because of a reality show anchored by the Bella Twins.
Then we had this past February’s Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia, where Brie Bella made her long-awaited WWE return after several years away — and if you heard the ovation she received, it was one of the loudest of the night. It rivaled the entrances of Roman Reigns and AJ Styles, the latter of whom even retired that evening. Brie Bella is like a Carmelo Anthony; she’s never hit a buzzer-beating shot in Game 7 of the Finals, but is still a known name who’ll always be relevant. And it showed in Saudi Arabia that even in her absence, the fanbase’s collective heart undoubtedly grew fonder of the Bella brand.
After their first tag match on “Smackdown” in nearly a decade ended in a non-decision, a Fatal 4-Way with the Irresistible Forces, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, and Bayley and Lyra Valkyria for the Women's Tag Team Championship is a direction we are going in, with the Bella Twins officially ‘Mania-bound.
No. 5 Seed: AJ Lee
Another returning superstar. AJ Lee’s comeback after a decade away was one of the best things in pro wrestling in 2025. One of those rare moments where we know there’s a high likelihood something’s going to occur, and we wait on bated breath for it to happen — and then it happens and it actually delivers.
AJ Lee enters WrestleMania 42 as the WWE Women's Intercontinental Champion.
WWE via Getty Images
AJ Lee is like a Kawhi Leonard. If you talk about the greatest NBA players of the past 10 years, Kawhi’s name will get brought up, but it won’t get brought up first. But like Kawhi, who might be on the bench for part of the season but, when he plays, he shows up and is the difference-maker that allows his team to win, Lee is the same way.
When she shows up, it feels important. She plays her position, she over-delivers and leaves the fans happy. AJ Lee is a lock for the 5 seed.
No. 4 Seed: Rhea Ripley
Rhea Ripley has become one of the most important WWE stars over the past two years. Her victory over Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 40 and her standout performance with Iyo Sky and Bianca Belair at WrestleMania 41 — which took top honors as Uncrowned’s 2025 Match of the Year — have firmly established her at the top of the division. She’s elite, dominant and must-watch. She’s the Kevin Durant of the WWE women’s division. A unicorn.
On my ESPN Radio show, two-time WWE Hall of Famer Booker T and I discussed the potential of a Jade Cargill match before Rhea Ripley's eventual victory at Elimination Chamber. And we both agreed on a similar sentiment: Ripley vs. Cargill is the top women’s match to make right now. Say what you will about Cargill, but she’s a mega-star. So is Rhea Ripley. And when you look at them physically, they match up very well.
You must give the people a larger-than-life spectacle they’ll want to pay to see for WrestleMania. I promise you this: Anybody scrolling through social media, walking through the terminals at Harry Reid International Airport, or flipping through channels — if you see the poster of Ripley vs. Cargill, you’re going to think to yourself, “Oh s***!”
And then you consider the social media jabs they’ve taken at each other and WWE now being in its “Unreal” era, trying to figure out if this is a work, if it’s a shoot, or if it’s working a shoot into a work in order to generate interest in a match. Whichever the case may be, Ripley has catapulted into playoff seeding, and her momentum is meeting the moment.
Rhea Ripley (center) and Stephanie Vaquer (right) are two of the central figures around WrestleMania 42.
WWE via Getty Images
No. 3 Seed: Stephanie Vaquer
Stephanie Vaquer might shock people coming in only at No. 3 on the list, because 2025 may be the most impressive year for any superstar in company history when you talk about rookie achievements.
Stephanie Vaquer came into NXT, won the North American Championship with no problem, then went on to be the NXT Women’s Champion with no problem, holding those titles simultaneously. And it seemed there was an internal battle for popularity over who would be the mega-star: Vaquer or Giulia.
But Stephanie obviously won the popularity battle once they were both brought up to the main roster — Stephanie to “Raw,” Giulia to “SmackDown.”
Giulia did find success winning the United States Women’s Championship, but Vaque — due to a series of perfect events — won the Evolution Battle Royal, went on to win the Women’s World Championship after Naomi had to vacate it for her pregnancy, and then defeated Tiffany Stratton just a couple of months later for the Women’s Crown Jewel Championship in Saudi Arabia. And all that happened in the same year.
It’s incredible what Vaquer has been able to do, and now she marches into WrestleMania to face Liv Morgan. I’d say that’s one hell of a year, almost like a 2011 Derrick Rose.
Stephanie Vaquer is number three.
No. 2 Seed: Jade Cargill
When we first saw Jade Cargill in AEW, there was something undeniable about her. There was something so loud about seeing her on television; it was practically screaming at you, like your significant other might when you forget to buy milk on your way home.
It was that she had WWE written all over her.
Jade Cargill's biggest WrestleMania moment yet is upon us.
Ethan Miller via Getty Images
Jade Cargill was meant to be a WWE superstar. When you talk about the eight-by-ten or the airport test, there is not a woman on the roster who passes it better than her. A comic book superhero come to life, it has been said — Storm from X-Men fame in the flesh.
With two WrestleManias under her belt, a SummerSlam main event, and now a world title as the WWE Women’s Champion, it’s fitting that Cargill made her debut tagging alongside Shaquille O'Neal, because she is the Shaq of the women’s division. She’s less about technique and more about sheer force and effectiveness.
From all reports, the WrestleMania card has been written, erased, written, torn up, blown up and written again. So we’ll see where everything shakes out. But right now, she is the No. 2 seed in this WrestleMania playoff season.
No. 1 Seed: Liv Morgan
I was in the building when Liv Morgan made her main roster debut back in 2017. Since then, Morgan has gone through ebbs and flows in popularity yet has always maintained a spot on the card.
But if you look back at what she was able to do in late 2024 through early 2025, Liv Morgan, for all intents and purposes, has been the MVP of the women’s roster. She consistently goes out there and puts on sensational matches.
Liv Morgan challenges Stephanie Vaquer for the WWE Women's World Championship at WrestleMania 42.
WWE via Getty Images
I spoke with Morgan a few weeks back and asked her whether she felt like the MVP of the past year. Here’s what she shared with me:
“I feel like 2024 was a bit of a coming-out party for me. If you didn’t know about Liv Morgan before, you definitely do now. Unfortunately, I did suffer an injury, and it happened when I was really hitting my stride. I wouldn’t say I was at my peak, because I truly believe I’m going to be even better than I am right now. This is a great version of Liv Morgan, but it’s not the best version yet.
At the time, though, I was on a serious upward trajectory, so the injury was devastating. I was very, very angry during that time off. But now, being on the other side of it — coming in as the greatest Royal Rumble winner of all time, heading into WrestleMania — it just proves that everything happens for a reason, even the setbacks. And because of that, I feel vindicated.”
That kind of confidence is reminiscent of Kobe Bryant’s first championship run on the Lakers. Relentless. And that vindication came with a crowning jewel: Earlier this year in Saudi Arabia, when she won the Women’s Royal Rumble, Morgan was truly — despite an incredibly stacked and talented women’s roster — the only logical choice.
So, for that reason and more, Liv Morgan lands in our top spot and is the most likely to become a champion once WrestleMania 42 has concluded.
Those are my top eight seeds in the women’s division. A lot of names have been left out: Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Nattie, Zelina Vega, Giulia, Chelsea Green, Raquel Rodriguez, Roxanne Perez, Maxxine Dupri, Bayley and Lyra Valkyria.
Any of those names could make a run in the next few weeks and this list would suddenly look a lot different. But that’s the excitement of playoffs season — you don’t know what can happen. Because in the WWE, the only thing that ever matters this time of the year is the momentum of the moment — and that can change at a moment’s notice.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 10: Head coach Dave Canales of the Carolina Panthers reacts prior to the NFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams at Bank of America Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) | Getty Images
We still have a few weeks until the 2026 NFL Draft, so we’re biding our time running through simulations and imagining what players the Carolina Panthers are going to come away with in the last weekend of April. The Panthers are usually pretty transparent with their draft philosophies, so it’s rare they blindside us with their early round selections. In that vein, head coach Dave Canales dropped a quote in a recent press conference that could be a subtle hint at what positions are and are not on the table in the first round.
Dave Canales on best available approach with the 19th pick: "I don't believe in drafting for depth."
There’s a couple of ways to take this quote. One, it could mean that any player picked at that spot is expected to compete for starter’s reps regardless of position. While that could be true, it does somewhat ignore the dynamic of building a roster. There are spots that a rookie is either going to be unlikely to win a starting gig, or if they do, the Panthers will be drastically overpaying for depth.
More likely, this quote implies that when the Panthers are evaluating their options at the 19th pick, they’re going to favor positions that aren’t already strengths on the roster. They aren’t likely to draft Vernon Butler with Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short on the defensive interior or Shaq Thompson with Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis at the height of their powers. You’d think that takes cornerback off the table with Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson forming one of the more formidable outside corner duos in the NFL. Guard and wide receiver could also be difficult spots for a rookie to crack. And regardless of your thoughts on Bryce Young, quarterback is not on the table by any means.
That doesn’t rule out a whole lot of players, but it does shift the odds a little bit. Tight end is an obvious spot that’s begging for someone dynamic to take a starting spot, which makes someone like Kenyon Sadiq more interesting. You could see the same about the center spot, where the Panthers seemingly have Luke Fortner penciled in as the starter, but there aren’t any players that would be in play that high at that spot.
On defense, an edge rusher would be interesting. The Panthers spent big money on Jaelan Phillips, and he’s locked in as one starter. On the other side is Nic Scourton, who showed promise, but the question will be if the coaching staff felt it was enough promise to pass on competition for the other starting spot opposite Phillips. Safety, linebacker, and interior defensive line all of good players but have room for another difference maker to start, so all are seemingly on the table if the Panthers like one at the 19th pick.
The quote about not drafting for depth in the first round isn’t exactly groundbreaking, but it does resonate with longtime Panthers fans that watched the team use high picks on redundant players, especially back in the Dave Gettleman era. Dan Morgan, Dave Canales, and the rest of the decision makers seem to be more in tune with how to use the draft to create a cohesive roster, and there’s solace to be taken in that.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 19: Akheem Mesidor #3 of the Miami Hurricanes looks on during the first half of the College Football Playoff National Championship between the Indiana Hoosiers and the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium on January 19, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by CFP/Getty Images) | Getty Images
April is upon us, meaning that we’ve officially reached the month of the 2026 NFL Draft. The anticipation grows by the day, especially within the Bears’ fanbase.
This year’s draft is a tougher one to cover from a Chicago-based perspective, seeing as though the Bears pick much later in the first round than they have in years past. That means more variables that go into effect before the beloved are on the clock, which makes it tougher to determine which prospects will be the best players available at No. 25 overall.
To provide as broad of an understanding as possible about potential options for the Bears, I’ve decided to rank my preferred choices in Round 1 and break them up into tiers. I’ve removed some of the consensus top players from consideration, but I wanted to look at players who could project as good value picks for Chicago this year.
The best player available approach comes with an asterisk, as the Bears wouldn’t take a quarterback or a tight end if that were to be the top player on their board. I’ve narrowed these choices down to the following positions, which I believe to be needs on Chicago’s roster to varying extents:
Defensive end
Defensive tackle
Safety
Offensive tackle
Cornerback
Center would fit in the mix and is arguably a bigger need than offensive tackle or cornerback, but with no center options projecting as first-round picks, that position won’t be represented in this conversation.
Without further ado, these are my rankings and tiered-off preferences for the Bears’ first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Tier 1: Unlikely to fall
1. Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
With a short wingspan and a dip in production in 2025, Peter Woods could experience a drop come Draft Day this year. However, in a class full of specialists at defensive tackle, I think he’s the only one who’s explosive enough as a pass rusher and consistent enough as a run defender to be a three-down starter quickly in the NFL. There’s a reason he was my choice for the Bears in Round 1 of my latest three-round mock draft at PFSN.
2. Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami (FL)
Akheem Mesidor will be 25 by the time the draft kicks off, which could knock his stock down a bit. I feel confident in saying, though, that he would be a top-ten pick in the 2026 NFL Draft if he were two years younger. He’s a powerful, crafty edge rusher with a deep arsenal of moves to shed blocks and the physicality needed to set the edge in the run game. If you’re looking for a pro-ready defensive end, Mesidor is your guy.
3. Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
One of the few natural left tackles at the top of this class, Caleb Lomu is a natural athlete along the offensive line. He’s a coordinated, mobile pass protector who takes good angles with optimal body control blocking on the move. He lands his strikes with good timing and accuracy, and though he isn’t the most powerful lineman out there, he does more than enough to lock out defenders at the point of attack.
4. Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
With an elite Pro Day that included a 4.38 40-yard dash, Jermod McCoy answered any questions there might’ve been about his retained athleticism after suffering a torn ACL. He missed all of 2025 due to the injury, but his 2024 tape was tremendous. He has a 6’5” wingspan with impressive movement skills, displaying quick processing in coverage and ideal explosiveness coming out of his breaks.
5. Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
Dillon Thieneman is an explosive, intelligent, versatile defensive back who should end up selected in the top 20 by the time the first round is all said and done. His ability to play as a deep safety, in the box, and in the slot with high-level instincts in all alignments is impressive. His downhill speed and ball-tracking skills give him plenty of value as a disruptor in coverage, and he’s an aggressive tackler who can make big hits.
Tier 2: Favorable options
6. T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson
Similar to Woods, T.J. Parker also suffered a dip in production in 2025. That said, there’s plenty to love between his last two seasons of tape. He’s a physical tone-setter off the edge with good play strength and the ability to convert speed to power. He has the short-area quickness to threaten with speed, but it’s his refined hand work and his power that should make him a good starting edge rusher in the NFL.
7. Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri
It’s always encouraging when a player has a linear growth pattern at the collegiate level. That was the case for Zion Young, who consistently got better each year and capped things off with a strong 2025 season for Mizzou. His relentless motor, play strength, and physical measurements should entice teams late in the first round, and though he’s not the bendiest defender in the world, I think he’s more explosive on tape than many give him credit for.
8. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Being a Group of 5 safety with average speed testing at the Combine could hurt him a bit, but Emmanuel McNeil-Warren checks a ton of other boxes at his position. The nearly 6’4” defensive back is a big, physical safety who hits hard and can tackle in the box while covering underneath. His ball skills allow him to make plays in coverage, and the flashes he’s shown as far as his range in coverage go are very encouraging.
9. Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
Another top prospect whose production dropped in 2025, Keldric Faulk is a bit raw but has elite physical attributes. He’s 6’6” and 278 pounds with 34 3/8-inch arms, and that size and length helps him out through contact. He has impressive power that’s maximized by his large reach and ability to keep blockers away from his chest, and he has great size-adjusted quickness. The bend and counter work as a pass rusher need improvement, though.
10. Christen Miller, DT, Georgia
Georgia rotates their defensive linemen pretty heavily, so Christen Miller is somewhat unproven as a pass-rushing defensive tackle. He’s shown flashes in that regard, however, and his spatial awareness and physicality as a run defender could see him crack the first round. Besides Woods, Miller is the defensive tackle I feel the best about being a three-down contributor in Year 1.
11. Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Blake Miller is a natural right tackle, so the Bears would need to go through a similar transition period as they did with Ozzy Trapilo last offseason. However, he’s a lengthy, experienced tackle with a good combination of power and technically-sound hand work on tape, and he tested well enough to show that there’s plenty of athletic upside that could be further tapped into.
Tier 3: Great players, questionable scheme fits
12. Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
As far as run-defending defensive tackles go, Kayden McDonald might be the best of the bunch. He doesn’t fit the disruptive, explosive mold that Dennis Allen historically likes along the interior, but he has met with the Bears, which indicates some level of interest. He is a powerful defender with great grip strength, a sturdy anchor, and an ability to stack and shed blocks against the run. McDonald ranks higher on my overall board than a good handful of players in Tier 2, as do a few other people in Tier 3. However, the average athleticism makes him an average scheme fit, at best.
13. Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M
At just under 6’3” with arms that are only 30 1/4 inches long, Cashius Howell doesn’t have the length or size that Allen typically prefers at defensive end. He’s likely a better fit in a base 3-4 system as a stand-up edge rusher than he is in a system like Chicago’s. His lack of size and length can hurt him as a run defender, but he’s an explosive, crafty pass rusher with the flexibility to turn the corner and the deep arsenal to win off the edge in a variety of ways.
14. Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
I project Avieon Terrell staying in the slot at the NFL level, which hurts his fit for the Bears, barring a move of either him or Kyler Gordon outside. There’s a little inconsistency with Terrell’s tape, but when he’s on, he’s super sticky in coverage. He fits the bill athletically and has the route recognition needed to stay stride for stride with a lot of the wide receivers he goes up against.
15. D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
If D’Angelo Ponds were two inches taller, he might be the top cornerback selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. A lot of concern comes from the fact that he’s just under 5’9” and 182 pounds with 29 3/8-inch arms. He doesn’t have ideal size for a cornerback, but he makes up for it with elite speed, fluidity, leaping ability, ball skills, and instincts in coverage. Allen might see him as a nickel in a similar manner to Terrell’s situation, though.
16. Lee Hunter, DT, Texas Tech
He didn’t test incredibly well at the Combine, but Lee Hunter’s tape should overshadow the athletic testing when evaluating him as a draft prospect. His technique as a run defender could improve a bit, and his raw speed might not be up to Allen’s standard, but he’s still a freakish nose tackle with encouraging closing speed in space, impressive raw power at the point of attack, and really good flashes when he gets his hands and pad level right.
Tier 4: Risky territory
17. Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
When Kadyn Proctor is on, he’s on. He’s a gigantic tackle at 6’7” and 353 pounds with long arms and elite raw strength. His anchor is extremely strong, and he can drive defenders off the ball with ease. However, he lacks mobility in pass protection and doesn’t land his strikes consistently. Those issues can expose him in space, which could give him a steep learning curve as a pass blocker in Year 1.
18. Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State
There’s no denying that the 6’6”, 321-pound Max Iheanachor is a physical specimen. He was a soccer and basketball player in high school, and that background shows in how quick his feet are in pass protection, both in his kickslide and in how he changes direction. His physical tools are elite, but his hand placement can often be a bit too late and/or wide, and his pad level can provide issues for him leverage-wise. Iheanachor’s inexperience can show up on tape, and he’s also a natural right tackle.
19. Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF
As a second-round option, I would love Malachi Lawrence for the Bears. He’s a freak athlete off the edge with good length and ideal hand quickness rushing the passer. He’s not a consistent run defender at this stage, however, as inconsistent pad level and middling instincts against the run make it tough for him to set the edge. He’s a great rotational edge rusher in Year 1 with a high ceiling, but as a first-round pick, there’s plenty of risk attached.
Who do you think the Bears will end up with if they stay at 25?
Mar 20, 2026; San Diego, CA, USA; Utah State Aggies forward Adlan Elamin (35) shoots against Villanova Wildcats center Braden Pierce (17) in the first half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Season averages:
Minutes per game – 6.5
Points per game – 1.2
Rebounds per game – 0.9
Assists per game – 0.5
Blocks per game – 0.4
Field goal percentage – 66.7% (16/24)
Season highs:
Points – 6 vs Xavier
Rebounds – 4 at Creighton
Assists – 2 (three times)
Blocks – 2 at Xavier and vs UConn
Overall thoughts:
Braden Pierce improved throughout the season, that much is a fact. With Nico Onyekwere redshirting and Tafara Gapare leaving the program, Pierce was the only big man left on the roster near the end of out-of-conference play. Those developments allowed the 7’ center to play in every game from December 6th against Penn and on.
The minutes played only reached double-digits on three occasions, with the high on the year being 11 against both Connecticut and St. John’s in February. The correlation there is that both of those teams have large frontcourts. When it wasn’t necessary, the goal was to limit Pierce to less than eight minutes in competitive games.
Pierce is able to use his size to defend the rim, averaging 1.7 blocks per 36 minutes played. Over the course of the season, he did improve his ability to finish around the rim, making the occasional jump hook or push shot. To a lesser extent than Duke Brennan, Pierce was able to facilitate some off the screen-and-roll.
What we didn’t see any of was the shooting touch that Kevin Willard talked about upon Pierce’s commitment to Villanova. Willard said, “Our staff has always appreciated Braden’s shooting skill as a stretch five.” There are two reasons why this needs to brought up:
With Pierce’s below average lateral mobility, he will need to be more valuable on the offensive end to not be played off of the court.
Pierce has been in college since the 2023-24 season, all under Willard at Maryland. I was hoping to see this skill readily available at this point.
Development isn’t necessarily linear, so I don’t want to assume that this couldn’t be true in the future. But given the obvious limitations that we saw against the better teams, even in a small role, it may be better for both parties to look in a different direction. Villanova should be looking to improve the center position, so there’s no realistic scenario where Pierce is the starter there next year. Pierce should be looking to play more than seven minutes per game next year. And between him and Onyekwere, the latter has more untapped potential seeing that he is two years younger.
USC men’s basketball hired Brad Davidson as an assistant coach, the team announced on social media on Wednesday. Davidson brings 18 seasons of coaching experience at both the collegiate and international level.
“I’ve followed Coach Musselman’s programs closely over the past five to six years through relationships with former colleagues and players who have worked with him,” Davidson said, per USC. “The opportunity to join his staff at a storied program like USC and compete in the Big Ten is incredibly exciting for me and my family. We’re eager to get to Los Angeles and get to work.”
Davidson joins Will Conroy, Michael Musselman, Anthony Ruta and Earl Boykins as assistant coaches on the Trojans’ coaching staff. Davidson has a connection to the program through USC’s Player Development/Recruiting Coordinator Caleb Cline, who Davidson coached at South Dakota.
Davidson will officially begin his role as assistant coach on Monday, April 6.
Davidson’s Coaching Experience
Most recently, Davidson served as an associate head coach at the University of Hawai’i. This past season, he helped the Rainbow Warriors return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2016.
Davidson contributed to Hawaii’s productive offense, which ranked third in the Big West in field goal percentage this season. He also led the Rainbow Warriors to three, 20+ win seasons during his career with Hawaii.
Prior to Hawaii, Davidson was an assistant coach at South Dakota for three seasons where he met Cline. He was also an assistant coach at North Dakota and helped that team make its first NCAA Tournament appearance in program history.
In addition to his collegiate coaching experience, Davidson coached multiple professional teams in Australia and played in the National Basketball League in Australia for 13 seasons.
Davidson will bring a unique, international background of experience to USC’s coaching staff.
WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 12: Shay Whitcomb #10 of the Houston Astros bats during spring training workouts at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches on February 12, 2026 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Houston Astros/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Another day of minor league baseball is in the books. See the results below.
AAA: Sugar Land Space Cowboys (4-1) won 10-3 (BOX SCORE)
Sugar Land jumped out to an early lead scoring 5 runs in the 2nd inning on a Trammell 2 run double and Whitcomb 3 run HR. J. Alexander got the start but struggled a bit allowing 3 runs over 3.2 innings. The offense would rally again in the 6th inning scoring 5 runs on a Trammell sac bunt, Whitcomb 2 run HR and then Alexander 2 run HR. The bullpen was great with JP France tossing 2.1 scoreless innings and then Santa, Cosgrove and Knorr all throwing scoreless innings as they closed out the 10-3 win.
TALLAHASSEE, FL - OCTOBER 14: a Syracuse Orange helmet rests near the sidelines in the first half during the game between the Syracuse Orange and the Florida State Seminoles on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at Bobby Bowden Field at Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, Fla. (Photo by Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
With spring football reving up across the country, we’re keeping an eye out for various news items. ESPN has been going conference by conference and this week released their list of each ACC team’s most important newcomer
Syracuse fans might have expected it would be transfer quarterback Amari Odom, or maybe top-rated recruit Calvin Russell prior to his injury. but Syracuse went with transfer edge Keyshawn Johnson as their selection. Here’s what ESPN had to say for why they chose Johnson:
Syracuse’s back end is in good shape, returning multiple starters and depth in the secondary, but the front seven took a big hit. The Orange lost five of their top six performers along the defensive front, including David Reese and Kevin Jobity Jr., who combined for eight sacks. A few rotational linemen and linebackers return but have yet to show they can consistently win one-on-one as pass rushers. Syracuse finished third-to-last in the ACC in sacks and tied Boston College for the highest average yards allowed per play (6.5) within the conference. The Orange needed a true one-on-one pass-rush winner to spark the front and turn pressures into actual negative plays. Johnson brings that résumé from the FCS level.
When you look at that breakdown it makes sense. Odom might slot in as the backup to Steve Angeli, and Russell will likely start as part of a rotation of receivers, but the Orange need a pass rusher to emerge next season and Johnson could be that guy.
ESPN also made an interesting comparison to Johnson when sharing what fans could expect from the UT-Martin transfer
He might not be the tallest, but he’s built like a truck and super flexible and twitchy. Expect a noticeable uptick in negative plays. It’s unfair to mention Dwight Freeney in the same breath, but there will be a resemblance for Cuse fans. Johnson was dominant off the edge for UT Martin the past two seasons, earning OVC Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2025 with a school-record 13.5 sacks and 20 tackles for loss. Over two years, he totaled 77 tackles, 24 TFLs and 17 sacks. His ability to win quickly and consistently as a pass rusher should immediately stress ACC tackles, though he will see a major jump in competition. If he adjusts to the speed and strength of Power 4 offensive lines, Johnson can be the missing piece that allows Syracuse’s strong secondary to play more aggressively behind a reinvigorated pass rush.
I don’t know if they realized that Freeney is helping the Orange and will likely be working with Johnson leading up to the 2026 season, but we’ll see if Johnson can make the transition and continue to wreak havoc in ACC backfields this Fall.
The postseason shifts to Hinkle Fieldhouse as the New Mexico Lobos face the Tulsa Golden Hurricane in the 2026 NIT semifinals.
Game Details:
Matchup: New Mexico Lobos vs. Tulsa Hurricanes
Location: Hinkle Fieldhouse (Indianapolis, IN)
When: April 2nd, 2026
Tipoff: 7:00 p.m. MT
TV: ESPN
Radio: Lobo Radio Network (770 KKOB AM)
The New Mexico Lobos (26–10) will face the Tulsa Golden Hurricane (29–7) in the NIT Semifinals on Thursday night at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
New Mexico is now the only Mountain West Conference team still playing in the NIT, while no Mountain West teams remain in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, that says volumes about Eric Olen, his staff, and team have done this year.
Tipoff is at 7 p.m. EDT on ESPN. New Mexico holds a tournament-best average of 92.3 points per game, while Tulsa is one of the hottest teams in the country with a 9–1 record in its last 10 games. This matchup should be exciting.
Both teams are playing well, and a spot in the NIT Championship Game is on the line. For New Mexico, this is also an opportunity to boost the program’s and the Mountain West Conference’s national profile.
Team Outlooks
New Mexico Lobos (26–10)
New Mexico advanced to the semifinals after one of its best games of the season, defeating Saint Joseph’s 84–69. The Lobos dominated the second half with efficient offense and solid defense.
They shot 47.5% from the field, made 22 of 28 free throws, and won the rebounding battle 38–31. They also stayed composed, committing only 11 fouls and disrupting Saint Joseph’s offense.
Tomislav Buljan led the team with 27 points and 11 rebounds, making an impact on both offense and defense.
This season, New Mexico averages 81.5 points per game while shooting 46.3% from the field and 36.3% from three-point range.
Their fast pace, strong turnover margin, and rebounding make them one of the most dangerous offensive teams remaining in the NIT.
On defense, the Lobos force 13.6 turnovers per game and hold opponents to 41.9% shooting. This strong defensive effort supports their transition offense, which is a key part of coach Eric Olen’s strategy.
Tulsa Golden Hurricane (29–7)
Tulsa advanced to the semifinals with a hard-fought 83–79 victory over Wichita State, demonstrating composure and solid execution in a tight game.
The Golden Hurricane depended on perimeter shooting and free throws, making 41.4% of their three-pointers and 87.5% of their free throws, which was crucial to their victory.
Tulsa is known for discipline and efficiency. They favor a slower, half-court style, emphasizing quality possessions and minimizing mistakes.
They average 85.4 points per game on 47% shooting, making them one of the most efficient teams remaining.
Defensively, Tulsa permits 73.3 points per game, and opponents shoot 42.6%, with a solid three-point defense at 32%.
They don’t force many turnovers, but they consistently contest shots and remain organized on defense.
Players to Watch
New Mexico
Jake Hall (G) – Top scorer with 16.3 PPG, excels at long-range shooting, the Steph Curry of this team, can flat out shoot the rock
Tomislav Buljan (F) – Dominant inside scored 27 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the last game. When he is on his game, he is very hard to stop opposing teams.
Uriah Tenette (G) – Skilled scorer, good at transition plays, very athletic
Deyton Albury (G) – Playmaker, influential in scoring, assists, and defense.
Luke Haupt (F) – A versatile contributor in all areas, making the entire team better
Tulsa
Daron Green (G) – Leading scorer (15.7 PPG) takes over offensively, can shoot the rock, and score
Tyler Riley (G) – Main ball handler sets the pace and offense.
Miles Barnstable (G) – Key scorer just had 24 points.
What to Watch For
Tempo Battle
New Mexico performs best when playing at a fast pace, leveraging transition offense to obtain quality shots. Tulsa excels in a slower, half-court style, limiting possessions and controlling the game tempo.
The team that controls the pace will probably have the advantage since tempo influences both teams’ styles and scoring opportunities.
Turnovers & Transition
The Lobos often force turnovers, which helps them speed up the game and turn defense into fast-break points.
If Tulsa protects the ball and slows down the game, they can force New Mexico to play out of its comfort zone, limiting transition opportunities and boosting their own efficiency.
Both teams can shoot well from long range, but New Mexico’s quick scoring runs could be the deciding factor.
Tulsa’s solid free-throw shooting could keep them competitive late in the game.
Mountain West Impact
This game is especially significant for the Mountain West Conference. With multiple teams in postseason play this year, New Mexico reaching the NIT semifinals demonstrates that the league is earning national respect.
A win would send the Lobos to the NIT Championship Game and further demonstrate that the Mountain West is among the top non-power conferences in college basketball. I
It would also sustain the momentum the league has established this season, with several teams performing well on a national level.
This is an opportunity for New Mexico. This is a chance for New Mexico to advance and show off the conference on a big postseason stage outside the NCAA Tournament.
Thursday’s matchup is more than just another postseason game—it presents a chance to create a defining moment in an already memorable year.
New Mexico is aiming for its first NIT title game appearance in over twenty years, while Tulsa seeks to extend one of the nation’s most impressive hot streaks on a national stage.
With varying playing styles, increasing confidence, and a shot at the championship on the line, this semifinal promises to be memorable.
This game highlights New Mexico’s speed and scoring skills compared to Tulsa’s discipline and efficiency; this should be a very fun game to watch for both Lobo and Hurricane fans.
Tulsa will likely stay competitive early by controlling the tempo, but New Mexico’s depth, athleticism, and knack for forcing turnovers could take control as the game progresses.
Breaking: Man United held meeting with Premier League defender in Feb as they begin scouting Maguire’s successor
Manchester United chiefs reportedly reestablished their interest in Jarrad Branthwaite as recently as February.
The Old Trafford faithful will be well aware that United have long admired the Everton defender, with interest dating as far back as the beginning of 2023.
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United were in the midst of their pursuit in the summer of 2024, after monitoring Branthwaite throughout a stellar season with the Toffees.
They tested Everton’s resolve with two bids worth £35 million and £45 million – both of which were swiftly rebuffed.
Everton made it clear that the Red Devils’ proposals were nowhere near their valuation of their centre-half, which prompted United to look elsewhere.
They subsequently turned their attention to Matthjs de Ligt and Leny Yoro, agreeing to sign both in long-term deals worth £43m and £59m, respectively.
Now almost two years on from their arrivals, United are seemingly back on the market for depth in the position.
While they are on the verge of agreeing a new contract with Harry Maguire, INEOS chiefs have begun sizing up who could be a suitable option to replace the veteran for when he does eventually depart in one or two years’ time – and Branthwaite has caught their eyes.
Ben Jacobs has revealed this afternoon that United met with the 23-year-old just two months ago.
“There was a meeting with the Branthwaite camp in February, [and] it was reiterated from the player’s side that interest hasn’t gone away,” Jacobs told The United Stand.
“Branthwaite had been focusing on himself, recovery and getting back on the pitch. We will see if it’s this summer or next.
“With Harry Maguire staying, United want to have that replacement while he is still in the building.”
It took 359 days for No. 1-seed UCLA to get back to the Final Four after their blowout loss against eventual national champion UConn last season, but they have arrived in Arizona and are ready to lift their first national title.
First, they have Texas standing in their way and South Carolina or UConn then waiting for them from the other side of the bracket in the championship game. The question is: Are they now ready to win?
After their 70-58 loss to the Huskies in last year’s Final Four, head coach Cori Close made it clear during her postgame media availability that this was a learning moment for her team. She asserted:
They handed it to us. That being said, we got to learn from this. We’ve obviously gone to new heights this year. But we got to let the pain of this hopefully teach us to go to new heights next year and learn from this and be better the next time. Really unusual to be in this position at the Final Four and have zero seniors in your locker room. And to have an opportunity to come back stronger, more connected, learning from this experience and be better the next time.
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessWBB) April 1, 2026
They came back this year with a predominantly senior-run team and ran through the Big Ten, going 18-0 in the conference. They went on to win the Big Ten Tournament, earned the No. 1 seed on their side of the NCAA Tournament bracket and breezed through their opponents through the first four rounds, winning all their tournament games by an average of 27 points.
However, what this year will be remembered by is what happens next.
UCLA has the team capable of winning it all, and among more than 350 Division I teams that competed for the national title, they are one of the four for which that dream remains alive. Now it’s time to see if they can get it done.
Everything starts and ends with Lauren Betts
Lauren Betts is far and away UCLA’s best player.
To reach their ultimate goal, she’ll have to be on top of her game. She is averaging 17.2 points and 8.6 rebounds per game this season. With her scoring, dominance on the glass and defensive presence, she is in the running to be named the best player in the nation.
Feeding her the ball early and running the UCLA offense through her will be critical. If UCLA does that and Betts has elite offensive scoring games, then they’ll have as good a chance as anyone at cutting down the nets this weekend.
Can UCLA exorcise demons past and present?
For UCLA to win it all, they’ll have to defeat teams that they haven’t been able to beat before.
They have just one loss this season, and that came at the hands of Texas, their Final Four opponent. In that contest, Betts struggled, scoring just eight points.
If they make it past Texas, on the other side could be the team that ended their title aspirations last sesaon in No. 1-overall seed UConn. The Huskies are still undefeated and in pursuit of another perfect season, which would be their seventh in the program’s history.
UCLA can find confidence in the fact that their other possible national championship opponent, South Carolina, is a team they did beat early last season. So, they can believe that they can take down a Dawn Staley-coached team.
The other good news for UCLA is that they are exactly where they wanted to be at the start of the year. They are just two wins away from being champions.
Now, it’s time to go out there and execute and turn potential and promise into basketball immortality.
Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Kingsley Enagbare (55) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
In the run-up to the draft, we’ll be breaking down all of the players added by the Jets during free agency and in the legal tampering window. We continue today with edge defender Kingsley Enagbare.
The 26-year old Enagbare is listed at 6’4” and 258 pounds and was a fifth round pick out of South Carolina in 2022. Enagbare has started 21 regular season games and two playoff games in his four seasons at the NFL level, and has registered 11.5 sacks.
Background
Enagbare, who is of Nigerian descent, was a four-star high school recruit, who headed to South Carolina and was a rotational defensive tackle during his freshman season. He ended up with 20 tackles and a sack in 12 games.
Having moved to defensive end, Enagbare’s role increased in his second season. He had 27 tackles, seven tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks.
In 2020, Enagbare was an all-SEC first team selection after registering 30 tackles and six sacks in just eight games.
He had a career-high 44 tackles in his senior year and added another 4.5 sacks to end his career with 15 sacks and 21 games started.
Having opted to forego his fifth season, Enagbare was viewed by some experts as a potential first round pick in the 2022 draft but he lasted until the fifth round before being selected by the Packers.
He started seven games as a rookie, ending up with 31 tackles and three sacks, then started four more in his second season and had another 37 tackles and two more sacks.
His third season saw him record 39 tackles and a career-best 4.5 sacks as he made another seven starts.
However, last year, he made just two sacks and started just four times, although he did have a career-high nine quarterback hits.
Enagbare was signed by the Jets in free agency on a one-year deal with a reported maximum value of $10 million.
Let’s move onto some more in-depth analysis of what Enagbare brings to the table, based on in-depth research and film study.
Measurables/Athleticism
Enagbare has a decent frame with excellent length and has been developing in terms of his on-field play strength.
His workout numbers were unremarkable as he ran a 4.87 in the 40-yard dash at the combine and failed to improve on that at his pro day. His agility numbers were also below average. His explosiveness numbers were good, though, including a 36.5-inch vertical.
Usage
Enagbare played his first season as a defensive tackle in college but has been an edge defender since then. However, he did line up across from a tackle or in the B-gap sometimes with the Packers.
Motor
Enagbare has been a rotational player throughout his NFL career so far, typically playing between 40-50 percent of the snaps. He did play 60 snaps in one game last year, though, so he could handle a starter’s workload if called upon.
In the trenches, he displays good hustle and effort, along with a relentlessness and desire to get to the quarterback.
Pass rush
Enagbare’s pressure percentages were solid in college but have been less impressive at the NFL level where he has yet to post double-digits in terms of quarterback hits in a season.
He hasn’t been someone who has posted big sack numbers either, with many of the ones he has had coming in clean-up. Nevertheless, he displays a quick get-off coming off the edge.
He also brings good power when rushing, with a lot of his pressure coming from getting upfield on a speed-to-power move and then separating from the blocker to get to the quarterback.
Run defense
Enagbare has been a consistent run defender over the course of his career, with his run defense grades on analytical sites such as Pro Football Focus typically above average. He has typically played more in passing situations, though.
He has shown an ability to set the edge and has some good quickness to beat blockers.
However, he can sometimes be guilty of crashing downhill too aggressively and can also be overpowered at the point of attack at times.
Technique
Enagbare has a variety of pass rush moves that he uses, showcasing good footwork, balance, hand work and an ability to transition from one move to another. He also uses his length well.
One thing he displays is a rare ability to avoid contact both in the running game and pass rush, with quick upper body movements.
His footwork in terms of disguising his rush or getting his man off balance is effective and he changes direction well.
When being blocked he has a good understanding of leverage and an ability to get his man off balance.
Special teams
Enagbare has contributed on special teams at the pro level, rushing kicks, covering kicks and blocking on returns and in punt protection. He has five special teams tackles in his NFL career so far.
However, he has 10 special teams penalties in his career, including five for holding. Perhaps as a result of this, he hasn’t blocked much on the return units over the past few years.
In college, Enagbare didn’t have much of a special teams role, other than rushing kicks, but he did block an extra point in his freshman year.
Tackling
Enagbare hasn’t been a particularly productive tackler and his tackle efficiency could be better as he tends to miss several tackles each year on average.
He had four forced fumbles in his college career and has three at the NFL level.
Coverage
Enagbare is a player who has dropped into coverage a few times per game during his career, albeit typically just into shallow zone assignments. He’s only really been targeted on dump-offs or when he is the nearest defender on screen passes.
He had four passes defensed in college and three in his rookie season, all on passes batted down at the line.
Instincts/Intelligence
Enagbare seems to have good play recognition, as he has blown up a few screen passes during his career.
He can be fooled by misdirection, though, enabling opposing teams to take advantage of his aggressiveness coming downhill.
He has jumped offside eight times at the NFL level.
Attitude/Demeanor
Enagbare is considered to be a mature, no-nonsense competitor, who was voted as a permanent captain by his South Carolina teammates ahead of his final season. He is dedicated in terms of his game preparation and displays good leadership by example.
His on-field discipline hasn’t been too bad with just 19 accepted penalties in his career, several of which were on special teams. He has had five personal fouls, though.
Injuries
Enagbare has been durable with the Packers, as he has played in all 17 games in each of his four pro seasons. At the end of his second season, he actually tore his ACL but was able to rehab it without surgery and was declared a full-go again by May.
In college, he missed two games at the end of the 2020 season and had to get hip surgery at the conclusion of the season. He also dealt with back pain during his college career.
Scheme Fit
Enagbare should fit into the Jets’ rotation on the edge and has the flexibility to be effective in both three and four-man fronts with the Jets expected to use both.
He was a teammate of current Jets Josh Myers, Andrew Beck, Jack Heflin and Marquis Hayes in Green Bay.
Conclusions
Enagbare is viewed around the league as a solid rotational contributor and someone who can be relied upon to fill in as a starter, but is not necessarily considered to be someone with a lot of untapped potential despite showcasing some good technical ability.
The Jets may feel otherwise, and could be hoping for Enagbare to break out with them. However, he was only signed to a one-year deal, so it’s a low-risk move for them, especially since he has been durable and consistent in the past.
PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA - MARCH 20, 2026: A view of the stadium prior to a spring training game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets at Clover Park on March 20, 2026 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images
2025 First Half Record: 34-31 (1/4, Florida State League East Division)
2025 Second Half Record: 43-22 (1/4 Florida State League East Division)
Over the last few years, the St. Lucie Mets weren’t a particularly great team. That changed last season, as the team won the Florida State League East Division with a not-exactly-dominant 34-31 record, benefiting from an extremely weak division; St. Lucie was the only team in the FSL East to finish the first half over .500. The team had a much better second half, going 43-22, steamrolling through the rest of the Florida State League and once again winning the division.
The St. Lucie Mets played the Daytona Tortugas in the FSL East Divisional Series, but fell two games to one in the best-of-three series, ending their season. St. Lucie had a 20-10 record against them during the season, but Daytona’s pitchers stepped up, not allowing more than two runs in any of the three contests and shutting out the Mets in the clincher.
Luis Rivera will be returning as his second year as the St. Lucie Mets manager. Joining him will be Jonathon Cramman, who will be serving as bench coach, David Mervis, who will be serving as pitching coach, and Bryan Muniz, who will be serving as hitting coach. Cramman will be replacing 2025 bench coach Jonathan Jones, Mervis will be replacing 2025 pitching coach Luis Alvarado, and Muniz will be replacing 2025 hitting coach Devin DeYoung.
The 2026 season will be the first season that Cramman is employed by the Mets. Prior to joining the organization, Cramman was involved in various aspects of baseball in Great Britain, where he was a former player who transitioned to coaching in 2019 and has found himself in multiple roles since.
The 2026 season will also be the first season that Mervis is employed by the Mets. Prior to joining the organization, he was the assistant coach/pitching coach for the University of North Alabama from 2023-2025 and a pitching development coordinator at the University of Delaware in 2022.
The 2026 season will be the second season that Muniz is employed by the Mets; he was the Brooklyn Cyclones hitting coach in 2025. Prior to joining the Mets, he was a coach in the Houston Astros organization from 2020-2024, an assistant coach at the King’s Way Academy in West Palm Beach, Florida from 2019-2020 and an assistant coach at Suncoast Community High School in Riviera Beach, Florida, from 2017-2019.
The St. Lucie Mets will be opening the 2026 season against the Palm Beach Cardinals at Roger Dean Stadium tonight. Here’s their Opening Day roster.
Philadelphia's Dick Sisler trots home in the top of the tenth inning of the game against Brooklyn, Oct.1, and teammate Del Ennis steps up to make with the congratulatory handshake. Up to this pint it was a 1-1 tie. Phils took the game, 4-1, after making 3 runs in this frame. Dodger catcher Roy Campanella, umpire Larry Goetz, Phils' centerfielder Richie Ashburn, (1) and Phils' first sacker Eddie Waitkus (4) are at the plate. Philly batboy is unidentified.
In honor of the Philadelphia Phillies playing host to the 2026 Major League Baseball All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park, we here at The Good Phight are launching a yearlong series that focuses on the history of the Phillies and the All-Star Game.Check back regularly for posts about the Phillies participation (or lack thereof) in the Midsummer Classic over its history.
It’s time to move on to the 1950s in our look at all of the one and done All-Stars in Phillies history. The fifties started off strong for the Phillies with achieving their first pennant in 35 years, but they promptly slid back into mediocrity not long after and eventually back to last place. But hey, if you’ve been following along with the rest of this seriesso far, mediocrity was an upgrade!
Jim Konstanty, 1950
We’ll start off with a player that was a member of those 1950 pennant winning Whiz Kids, even if by that time he was a bit of an elder statesman. Casimir James Konstanty was a multi-talented athlete. He was named captain of the basketball, baseball, and football teams his senior year at Arcade High School in upstate New York. Konstanty especially excelled at baseball, being named team MVP in both his junior and senior years while playing all over the diamond. All of this helped earn Konstanty a partial scholarship to Syracuse University.
Following his graduation in 1939, Konstanty went into semi-pro ball, eventually converting to pitching full-time in 1940 at the recommendation of his manager, fellow Syracuse alumnus George Minor. Not long after, Konstanty was signed to the Syracuse Chiefs, the Double-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. By 1943, Konstanty was considering quitting baseball and teaching full-time but was convinced to stick around with the possibility of a chance to play for the Reds on the table. Sure enough, Konstanty pitched well enough to earn a spot with the Reds in June of 1944 at the age of 27. He had a modest rookie season, pitching in 20 games with 12 starts and sporting a 2.80 ERA across 112.2 IP.
But Konstanty’s career then went on hold in 1945 when he was drafted into the Navy. He continued pitching for his base team and was discharged in early 1946 but was traded to the Boston Braves soon after opening day. Konstanty appeared in just 10 games with Boston though, as he struggled early and the Braves decided to send him to the Toronto Maple Leafs in Triple-A to make room for a young up-and comer named Warren Spahn. During the offseason after an uneven year at Triple-A, Konstanty went for a ride with his neighbor and local undertaker Andy Skinner. As it turned out, Skinner was also an avid bowler who was able to help Konstanty improve his slider and changeup thanks to his knowledge of spins. This partnership would last the rest of Konstanty’s baseball career.
Konstanty remained with Toronto for the next two years, but his manager Eddie Sawyer opted to move the righty to the bullpen in 1948. Later that season when Sawyer was hired as manager of the Phillies, he convinced the team to acquire Konstanty, and the latter made his return to the Majors with the Phillies on September 14th, 1948. He entered in the eighth with the Phillies down 8-0 to the Cardinals and two men on with no outs. Konstanty escaped that jam by inducing two pop-ups and nabbing the runner on first in a run down. He went on to appear in six games for Philadelphia and allow only one run across 9.2 IP.
Konstanty emerged as a bullpen anchor for the Phillies in 1949, appearing in 53 games and posting a 9-5 record with a 3.25 ERA in 97 innings. He even added a walk-off hit to finish off a sweep of the Cubs on June 16th. Manager Sawyer allowed Konstanty to hit in the ninth following a late Phillies rally to tie the game at 3-3 in the eighth. Konstanty collected a one-out, two strike single just over the second baseman’s head, allowing the winning run to score.
But the soft tossing reliever’s finest work would come in 1950. The now 33-year-old slammed the door on Phillies win after Phillies win, as the team began to surge into the pennant race by May. Konstanty, who was 7-3 with a 3.21 ERA through 36 appearances, was named to the 1950 All-Star roster along with teammates Robin Roberts, Willie “Puddin’ Head” Jones, and Dick Sisler. Roberts started the game for the NL on the mound at Comiskey Park, but Konstanty came on in relief in the sixth and retired all three hitters he faced, including strikeouts of Detroit’s Hoot Evers and Cleveland’s Jim Hegan. The game ultimately went 14 innings before the Cardinals’ Red Schoendienst homered off of Ted Gray to give the NL the winning run.
Konstanty returned to the Phillies and had an incredible second half following another meeting with his old bowler friend. He appeared in 38 games in the second half and owned a 2.02 ERA across an astounding 84.2 innings in relief, including a 22 1/3 inning scoreless streak. He lost the scoreless streak when he allowed a tying home run to the Pirates’ Ralph Kiner in the bottom of the 10thh inning on August 25th. But Konstanty remained in the game to pitch a full nine innings in relief and added an RBI single in the 15th in a 9-7 win.
The Phillies would ride Konstanty and the rest of a fantastic pitching staff to the pennant. Konstanty was a surprise starter for Game 1 of the World Series and completed eight innings while allowing just one run in his first start since 1946. But that one run was all the Yankees needed, as the Phillies bats could only muster two hits off of Vic Raschi. Ultimately, the Yankees finished off the sweep and dispatched the surprising Phillies team. But Konstanty was awarded a consolation prize after the season, as he was named the National League MVP, becoming the first relief pitcher in history to win the award in either league. He was a near unanimous winner, receiving 18 of out of 24 first place votes and 85% of the overall vote. Stan Musial, who finished second, only received one first place vote.
But much like the rest of the Phillies, Konstanty took a step back in 1951 with a 4.05 ERA in 58 games. He would remain in Philadelphia until being acquired off waivers in 1954 by those very Yankees that defeated him in the World Series. Konstanty reached the World Series again with New York in 1955, but this time he did not appear in the series as the Yankees lost in seven games to the Brooklyn Dodgers. Konstanty was later released by the Yankees in 1956 and signed with the Cardinals with whom he appeared in 27 games. St. Louis also released Konstanty after 1956, and he ultimately retired in 1957 after a brief stint with the San Francisco Seals in the Pacific Coast League. He then went into coaching where he mentored a young Steve Carlton in the Cardinals farm system.
Dick Sisler, 1950
Like his teammate Konstanty, Dick Sisler was another of the elder statesman of the Whiz Kids who made it onto the 1950 All-Star roster. But before that, he was born as the son of Major Leaguer George Sisler, a star of the dead ball era and Hall of Famer whose 41-game hitting streak in 1922 was the longest in American League history until it was surpassed by Joe DiMaggio in 1941. Dick was actually born during one of his father’s finest seasons in 1920, when the elder Sisler collected his first of two batting titles with a .407 average and set the then MLB record for hits in a season with 257.
Baseball was a dominant force in the family, much to the chagrin of Frances Sisler, the only daughter of the clan. Some of Dick’s earliest memories include seeing legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig on the field up close or going for ice cream with Rogers Hornsby. He signed his first professional contract with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1939 despite only being in college for barely over a year. Dick would spend the next four years in the Cardinals’ farm system before enlisting in the Navy in 1942 and serving three years as a physical instructor at Bainbridge Naval Training Center. Sisler got back to baseball in late 1945 by playing winter ball in Havana, Cuba where he became known as “the Babe Ruth of Cuba” and even earned an invite to a house party held by a fan known as Ernest Hemingway.
Despite his own success, Sisler was constantly compared to his father. He remarked to the Wisconsin State Journal on the eve of his MLB debut in 1946 that being George Sisler’s son was a “handicap” and that it was unfair to be compared to his father because “players like him come very seldom and never in one family.” For his part though, Sisler did acknowledge in the same interview how his family name gave him advantages, saying “I don’t suppose I’d have been signed by a big-league club as soon as I was had I not been a Sisler.”
Sisler made his MLB debut on April 16th against the Pirates, going 1-3 with a double. He would continue to start at first for the Cardinals until a hand injury in June forced him out of the lineup. Sisler wouldn’t get his everyday 1B job back, as Stan Musial shifted there from left field and took over the regular starting gig. Sisler would head out to left after his return and was utilized in a platoon. He’d finish his rookie season with an underwhelming .260 average and 3 home runs in 83 games. Sisler would play just 46 games with the Cardinals in 1947 before being traded to the Phillies in 1948.
In Philadelphia, Sisler was able to slide back into being an everyday first baseman, and he thrived with his new team. He finished his first year with the Phillies hitting .274 with 11 home runs in 121 games. However, his starting job once again appeared to be in jeopardy to start 1949, as the Phillies acquired first baseman Eddie Waitkus in a trade with the Cubs. Sisler was once again sent back to the outfield but struggled to find playing time amongst a group that included Richie Ashburn, Del Ennis, and Bill Nicholson.
But that all changed the night of June 14th, 1949, when Waitkus was shot in the chest by a mentally unstable woman in his Chicago hotel room in what became one of the first widely publicized cases of stalking. He would survive and go on to play six more years in the Majors, but Waitkus was lost for the rest of the 1949 season. Sisler would then be tasked with playing first base the rest of the season and finished the year hitting .289 with 7 home runs.
Waitkus was given the starting first base job back in 1950, forcing Sisler once again to fight for time in the outfield. But this time, determined to improve himself as an outfielder in the spring, Sisler won a starting job in left field and went on to have the best season of his career. He was hitting .325 with nine home runs by early July and was named to the NL All-Star team. Sisler didn’t have as much of an impact on the game as his teammates Robin Roberts and Jim Konstanty did, but he did appear as a pinch hitter for Don Newcombe in the top of the sixth and singled off of Bob Lemon before being replaced by pinch runner Pee Wee Reese.
Sisler returned to the Phillies and cooled off some, but the team was surging towards the NL pennant. However, despite having a seven-game lead over the Dodgers in late September, losses in the Phillies rotation led to that lead narrowing to just one game with one game left on the schedule. That game just so happened to be against the Dodgers in Brooklyn. Robin Roberts started on two days’ rest and pitched into the tenth inning of a 1-1 game. In the top of the tenth batting for himself, Roberts singled before Waitkus added a base hit of his own. Richie Ashburn then attempted to bunt the runners over, but Roberts was out at third. Nevertheless, two men were on with one out when Sisler came up to the plate.
That’s when the son who couldn’t escape his father’s shadow finally emerged with a legendary moment of his own. Sisler blasted a three-run homer to left off of Newcombe, the man he pinch hit for in the All-Star game, to give the Phillies a 4-1 lead and ultimately their first National League pennant since 1915. It was arguably the most impactful home run in Phillies history until perhaps being matched when Bryce Harper accomplished a similar pennant-clinching feat in 2022. Alas, just like Harper’s Phillies in 2022, Sisler’s Phillies in 1950 were not able to finish the job in the World Series. But at least Sisler got a shout out from his old friend Hemingway in The Old Man and the Sea, a novella the famed writer began working on just three months after Sisler’s famous home run.
Sisler had a decent year in 1951, but the Phillies were not able to recapture the magic of the previous season and finished under .500. He was then traded to the Reds following the season before being traded to the Cardinals merely one month into the 1952 season. All in all, Sisler hit .256 with 13 home runs in 130 games split between the two teams in 1952. But in 1953, he once again lost his starting job at first base, this time to 24-year-old phenom Steve Bilko. Sisler would appear in only 32 games with the Cardinals in 1953 before being sent to the Columbus Red Birds in Triple-A. He’d bounce around the minors for six more years before retiring from playing in 1960, never again to play a game in the Majors. Sisler did make it back to the Majors as a coach however, becoming the Reds hitting coach in 1961 and taking over as interim manager in 1962 when manager Fred Hutchinson was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Sisler was officially named manager in 1965, joining his father once again as the first father-son manager combination in MLB history.
Jack Sanford, 1957
Sometimes all you need is a chip on your shoulder to succeed. People underestimated Jack Sanford for much of his life, starting in high school when he wasn’t even the number one pitcher on his team. When the Boston Braves expressed interest in signing the Massachusetts native out of high school, his own manager, who was also a scout for the Braves, advised them against it, declaring that Sanford wasn’t much of a prospect.
But that didn’t deter Nancy Sanford, Jack’s sister who played on a local softball team. She encouraged him to go try out for the Red Sox and made sure to pack him a bag and see him on to the trolley to ensure he would go. The Red Sox declined to sign Sanford, believing he was too small, but a scout for the Phillies that was in attendance had his interest piqued. The Phillies then moved to sign Sanford in 1947, but they did not offer him a bonus in the deal like they did with pitchers Curt Simmons and Robin Roberts in the same signing class.
Sanford then experienced a growth spurt his first few seasons in the minors to bring him to just around six feet tall and 190 pounds. He performed well enough to earn an invitation to big league camp in 1954, but he was not given a spot on the major league team. Sanford, who had already earned a reputation of having a very short-fused temper, did not take it too well. He was issued a suspension during the 1954 season when pitching for Syracuse when he refused to come out of a game despite his manager trying to take him out.
But that didn’t deter Sanford’s desire to prove everyone wrong, as he continued to work in Triple-A to earn a spot with the Phillies. However, he quickly found out that there’s at least one entity that doesn’t much care what your desires are when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in October 1954. Sanford was trained as a missile tactician but mostly spent his service time playing for the baseball team at Fort Bliss, Texas. That time in the Army seemingly convinced the Phillies to give him a shot at the Majors, as they decided to bring him up for the last month of the 1956 season. Manager Mayo Smith had to look up records to even know who Sanford was but that didn’t deter him from using Sanford as a starter in the second game of a doubleheader against the Cubs on September 16th.
Sanford pitched seven innings in his MLB debut, allowing one run on four hits with four strikeouts despite walking eight batters. Nevertheless, the performance was enough to make his manager ask why the Phillies didn’t claim his services before the Army did and to declare that Sanford will be on the Phillies to begin 1957 no matter what, saying “someone will have to chop off his arm or something to convince me he can’t pitch in the majors.”
Despite finally accomplishing his goal, Sanford still had a roadblock in his way with an injury in his pitching hand he suffered in a fight while in the Army. His hand would occasionally go numb, and at first surgery was recommended but ultimately Sanford was given medication to treat the injury. But throughout the rest of his career his hand would sometimes go numb in cold weather and he was forced to use a hand warmer on the bench.
Smith was true to his word and Sanford made the 1957 Phillies out of training camp. He rewarded his manager’s faith by winning five of his first six starts and sporting a 10-2 record with a 3.20 ERA and a league-best 96 strikeouts by the All-Star break. Sanford was named to the 1957 All-Star team along with teammate Curt Simmons, becoming the only rookie pitcher named to the NL’s squad. Simmons started the game at St, Louis’ Busch Stadium, but Sanford did get to make an appearance in the top of the sixth.
Sanford entered to replace Milwaukee’s Lew Burdette with the AL up 2-0. He got Ted Williams to fly out for the first out but then ran into trouble, allowing a double to the Yankees’ Bill Skowron before a wild pitch with Yogi Berra at the plate moved Skowron to third. Berra promptly singled to left to bring in Skowron, pushing the AL’s lead to 3-0. But Sanford was able to get the Red Sox’ Frank Malzone and the Orioles’ Billy Loes to groundout to escape the inning. The AL would go on to win 6-5 after a pushing their lead to 6-2 heading into the ninth and barely staving off a late NL rally while sixteen suspected ticket scalpers were arrested outside of the stadium.
Sanford returned to the Phillies and continued his strong season, pitching to a 2.98 ERA in his final 18 starts but was saddled with a 9-8 record as the Phillies went 38-36 and sagged out of contention, finishing third in the NL. Sanford led all of baseball in strikeouts by the end of the season and finished with a 19-8 record and a 3.08 ERA in 236.2 innings. He was named NL Rookie of the Year, becoming the first in the history of the Phillies. He received 16 of 24 first place votes and finished ahead of teammate Ed Bouchee who finished in second place with four first place votes. Sanford joked to the Inquirer that he “must’ve been the oldest in history” to win the award, as he was 28 years old in 1957. He was actually the second oldest to that point, as the Boston Braves’ Sam Jethroe won at age 30 in 1950.
1958 was a disappointment for both Sanford and the Phillies, as he pitched to a 4.44 ERA in 186.1 innings. That was enough to convince the Phillies that Sanford would never replicate his rookie season, and they shipped him off to the Giants in the winter for pitcher Ruben Gomez and backup catcher Valmy Thomas. Phillies owner Robert Carpenter later called it the worst trade he ever made, as Sanford went on to have a good career with the Giants, compiling a record of 85-62 and a 3.59 ERA across six full seasons with the Giants before a mid-season trade sent him to the Angels in 1965.
But Sanford’s career as a starter was nearing its end at that point, and he was converted to a reliever in 1966. He was once again traded mind-season in 1967, this time going to the Kansas City Athletics. But he would appear in only 10 games with Kansas City and sported a 6.55 ERA before being released in August. His former manager in Kansas City brought Sanford along to his new job as manager in Cleveland as a pitching coach, but Sanford quit after two seasons to go work at a golf club in Florida where he eventually worked as a director.
LAWRENCE, KS - NOVEMBER 28: Utah Utes offensive lineman Spencer Fano (55) smiles after a Big 12 football game between the Utah Utes and Kansas Jayhawks on November 28, 2025 at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium in Lawrence, KS. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
We presented Cowboys Nation with an all-defense mock draft previously in this series, and have now returned to flip everything over and see what an all-offense draft would look like, even if it really wouldn’t make sense. But look at things this way, the offensive questions are there for Dallas. There’s real uncertainty at left tackle with fan frustration at right tackle, the club has acknowledged it needs more wide receiver depth along questions on the future of George Pickens. And only Jake Ferguson is signed beyond 2026 among the top tight ends, with bags of uncertainty on Luke Schoonmaker playing for Dallas this season. That’s one way to justify an offense-only swing in the draft. So let’s get to it.
Pick 12: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Fano measured 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds, then ran a 4.91s forty yard time with a 1.72s 10-yard split, a 32-inch vertical, a 9-foot-3 broad jump, a 7.34s three-cone, and a 4.67s shuttle. On the consensus he’s ranked 12th overall, and he was one of the combine’s top offensive line movers, which is exactly why he makes sense here. Dallas still needs a long-term answer on Dak Prescott’s blindside, and Fano gives them a player with legitimate tackle experience plus inside flexibility if that is where his NFL future ultimately lands.
Pick 20: Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee
Brazzell checked in at 6-foot-4 and 198 pounds and ripped off a 4.37s forty time with a 1.52s 10-yard split. Brazzell has pushed himself into the first-round conversation, and expect more buzz with his name as we head closer to draft day. The Cowboys clearly like Pickens, but after Seattle made a blockbuster signing with their rookie receiver, it makes things extremely tough to expect Pickens to be around long term in Dallas. The Cowboys coaches have also said the room needs more than just Lamb and Flournoy to throw to, and Brazzell would give them another size-speed weapon on a cost-controlled deal in what is becoming one of the league’s most expensive positions.
Pick 92: Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska
Johnson measured 5-foot-10 and 202 pounds, then posted a 4.56s forty, 1.59s split, 35.5-inch vertical, 10-foot broad jump, 7.32s three-cone, 4.29s shuttle, and 16 bench reps. Johnson is a back whose vision, cutting ability and explosive-play upside would pair well with the Cowboys’ scheme, and that makes him a clean third-round answer for a backfield that still needs more long-term certainty. He is not a luxury pick here, he is the kind of depth and future starter bet that makes sense behind Javonte Williams.
Pick 112: Tanner Koziol, TE, Houston
Koziol blew the combine apart earning an elite 9.77 RAS (Relative Athletic Score). This is definitely a Day 3 tight end worth watching because of his size, toughness and receiving profile, and that lines up with the team’s roster reality. The Cowboys top three tight ends are under contract for 2026, but only Ferguson is secured beyond that. Koziol feels like the right kind of developmental pass-game piece to stash now before the room gets more expensive.
Pick 152: Gennings Dunker, OT, Iowa
Dunker is set to go somewhere around the third round, so getting him here was strong value. In an all-offense build, doubling down on the line is easy to defend, especially for a team still trying to settle its tackle picture and protect Prescott from the kind of attrition that wrecked his rhythm at crucial moments last season.
Pick 177: DJ Campbell, OG, Texas
Campbell measured 6-foot-3 and 313 pounds, with a 5.01s forty, 1.76s split, 26.5-inch vertical, and 8-foot-8 broad jump. This one is less about panic and more about smart roster construction. Dallas likes where it stands at starting guard and center, and the team has made it clear it believes the future of both guard spots and center is already in the building, which means this is the exact range where you can afford to add another powerful developmental blocker and keep the pipeline healthy. Campbell is the kind of mid Day 3 trench pick good offenses keep making.
Pick 180: CJ Daniels, WR, Miami
Daniels is a big target receiver who can stretch the field, has contested-catch ability, and comes with enough experience to be more league-ready than the typical late Day 3 receiver. If the Cowboys are serious about insulating themselves from future contract decisions at receiver, this is exactly the kind of double-dip that makes sense.
Pick 218: Matt Gulbin, OC, Michigan State
This late-round offensive line pick makes complete sense for Dallas. Cooper Beebe is set to return as the starting center in 2026, so the Cowboys do not need to force an immediate starter here, they just need to replace the loss of Brock Hoffman. What they need here is a smart, physical interior depth piece, and Gulbin gives them exactly that because he has starting experience at left guard, right guard, and center. For a seventh-round pick in an offense-heavy mock, that is a clean Cowboys fit.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: DeMarcus Lawrence #0 of the Seattle Seahawks looks on during an NFC Championship NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Riding off into the sunset after winning a Super Bowl that was deemed laughable to even fantasize about at the time would be an awesome way to end an NFL career, but it doesn’t look like DeMarcus Lawrence is ready to hang up the cleats just yet.
While Lawrence himself hasn’t spoken about his playing future, Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald addressed this item at the NFL’s annual league meetings in Phoenix earlier this week. Short of anything Lawrence can say to the affirmative, this is about as encouraging as it gets.
“To my knowledge, he’s coming back,” Macdonald said Monday. “He always has the right to change his mind, but as of right now, he’s coming back.”
The 33-year-old Lawrence has two years remaining on his Seahawks contract. After an injury-shortened final year with the Dallas Cowboys, Lawrence was revitalized in Seattle and was a key factor in the team’s league-best defense. He recorded six sacks in the regular season and two more in the postseason, along with two fumble return touchdowns against the Arizona Cardinals. Lawrence’s stellar play earned him Pro Bowl honors for the fifth time in his career, but above all else he was able to get that first Super Bowl win and celebrate the birth of his child the next day.
On the subject of potentially bringing in another edge rusher in the wake of Boye Mafe’s free agent move to the Cincinnati Bengals, Macdonald said that, “If there was a right opportunity, we probably would have done it.” He did add that, should a draft or post-draft opportunity not come to fruition, “we’ll roll with the guys we have.”
CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 7: Kohl Rosario #7 of the Kansas Jayhawks passes the ball around Henri Veesaar #13 and Jarin Stevenson #15 of the North Carolina Tar Heels at Dean E. Smith Center on November 7, 2025 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Ryan Hunt/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Our class grades continue with the junior class. The junior class was the biggest group for the Tar Heels at six — one more than the sophomore class, and one more than the freshman and senior class combined. On the whole, it was a bit of a mixed bag and consisted almost entirely of transfer players.
Henri Veesaar
Veesaar put his name in as one of the best UNC transfers during the UNC transfer period (Brady Manek, Cam Johnson, and Harrison Ingram would also be on the short list) finishing the season with a team-leading 15 double-doubles. He also led the team in three-point percentage, field goal percentage, total points, total rebounds, and total blocks while finishing second in points, rebounds, and blocks per game. Veesaar took advantage of his increased role from his time with Arizona and saw an increase in every stat except free throw shooting.
Grade: A. Not quite as good as Wilson, but to be fair who is? Veesaar gave us way more than anyone expected, and stayed the course even when Wilson was lost for the season.
Jarin Stevenson
Stevenson handled whatever the season threw at him. Going from starter at the three to start the season, to bench player half way through, to back to starting at the three after the West Coast disaster, to moving up to the four after Caleb got injured. Whatever the Tar Heels needed Stevenson to do, he did, and for the most part his numbers stayed consistent throughout the year.
Grade: A-. Much like Veesaar, Stevenson saw an increase in minutes and saw improvements in numbers, while also providing steady post play down the stretch when that became an area of concern for UNC.
Luka Bogavac
The hype around Bogavac never matched the production as the international transfer had a rough start with all the eligibility issues. Despite leading the team in three pointers made, Bogavac never really seemed to find his groove as — like Stevenson — he too moved in and out of the starting lineup. Bogavac hit double figures in points 18 times, but scored just 19 total points during the three-game losing streak that ended the North Carolina season.
Grade: B-. Bogavac was brought in as a deep ball specialist, and though he hit at least three threes eight times, he finished the season 3 of 12 from beyond the arc.
Jayden Young
Young was brought in from Virginia Tech to provide bench depth. However, despite starting a few games this year, for the most part the guard was a non-factor on the season. Young saw his minutes cut by a third from last season and with it his production, as he never really seemed to find a spot in Coach Davis’s rotation. Despite being from North Carolina, this may be the former Hokie’s only season at UNC.
Grade: D+. Never getting the trust of the coach makes it hard to get in a consistent rhythm. At least he was brought in for depth and not to start like the next guy on the list.
Kyan Evans
Evans came in to be the Tar Heels starting point guard, however, it was clear from the start that he did not have the skills to lead the team in that fashion. Not only did he lose his starting spot to freshman Derek Dixon, but he also saw all his stats plummet from the previous season. Losing 11 minutes per game would hurt any player, but he was not nearly as efficient from the three point line or the free throw line, where he shot career low percentages. Both were at least 15 percentage points lower than the previous season at Colorado State.
Grade: F. Evans proved to be the Gio Lopez of the basketball team, though unlike Lopez, Hubert Davis acknowledged his mistake and made a change for the better of the team.
Evan Smith
A former member of the now defunct JV team, Smith gave John Holbrook a friend to talk to during the season. Smith played a grand total of eight minutes in five games this season and should gain the honor of getting a start next season on Senior Night, assuming the new coach doesn’t end that tradition.
Grade: Blue Steel. Same grade as Holbrook, as they both represent what that title used to mean in college basketball before NIL and transfer portals changed everything.
What do you think of the junior class grades? Let us know in the comments below.
ARLINGTON, TX - MAY 15: Cody Bradford #61 of the Texas Rangers warms up in the bullpen prior to his Major League debut game against the Atlanta Braves at Globe Life Field on May 15, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ben Ludeman/Texas Rangers/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Rangers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
It is an off day for Your Texas Rangers, who just completed a 4-2 road trip to start the season.
So far the Rangers have not had to make any roster moves, which is a good thing a week into the season. Eventually, though, whether due to injury or ineffectiveness, there will be a need to summon reinforcements from the minors, and the bullpen is usually the area that sees the most churn.
Our question today — the first time the Rangers have to summon a reliever from AAA, who do you think they will turn to? Who will be the first reliever called up to the majors?
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 26: Raphinha #11 of Brazil leaves the field at the end of the first half during the game between France and Brazil at Gillette Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images
Raphinha will now miss some key games for Barcelona, including La Liga and Champions League fixtures against Atletico, and Laporta is angry at the scheduling.
“It’s really frustrating when one of your best players gets injured in a friendly,” he told Mon Esport.
“You can’t shift the blame onto the player because he’s a professional, and he plays for his country and is obligated to give his all.
“It’s outrageous that FIFA sets such tight schedules and doesn’t take official competitions into account.”
Jamaal Stewart is back in Metro Nashville as a high school football and he returns to the school where he developed his offensive playcalling skills.
Stewart has been hired as Hillsboro's football coach, Metro Nashville Public Schools announced on April 2.
Stewart spent the 2025 TSSAA football season as the offensive coordinator at Pope John Paul II under Roc Batten. Prior to that move, Stewart was the coach at Centennial for two years.
"It’s an honor to return to a school district that helped mold me into the man and coach I am today," Stewart said. "I learned countless valuable lessons from MNPS as a student, coach, and educator.
"I am truly honored and excited to accept the position of head football coach at Hillsboro High School. This is a special opportunity to lead a program with a proud tradition and to join a community that values both academics and athletics."
Pope John Paul II was 3-8, losing to Boyd-Buchanan in the first round of the Division II-AA playoffs last November. Stewart's offense averaged 27 points in the first six games of the season.
But he had his most successful stint leading the East Nashville program. He led the Eagles' to back-to-back Class 3A state runner-up finishes in 2021 and 2022, losing to Alcoa both seasons. He was 27-11 in three seasons at the Metro Nashville school. East Nashville has since moved to 2A while Alcoa has moved up to 4A.
Stewart also returns to 5A football where he led Centennial in 2023 and 2024. He was17-8 during his time with the Cougars, reaching the 5A playoffs in both seasons, including a quarterfinal appearance in his first year (2023). He takes over a Hillsboro program that was led by Anthony Brown for five years. The Burros were 2-7 during Brown's final season in 2025 and failed to win a Region 5-5A game.
Stewart spent three seasons as Hillsboro's offensive coordinator (2017-2019) while Brown served as the defensive coordinator during that time. Both were part of the staff of former Hillsboro coach Maurice Fitzgerald.
Reach The Tennessean's high school sports editor, George Robinson, at georgerobinsontheleafchronicle.com and on the X platform (formerly Twitter) @Cville_Sports.
For those of us who were quacking ducklings in the 1970s, there weren't many ways to be fed.
Two NFL games on Sundays. One on Monday nights. Thanksgiving. And, at times, a Thursday night special aimed at avoiding a head-to-head Monday night game against the World Series.
Beyond the small handful of weekly games (along with Howard Cosell's halftime highlights package), we had a smattering of NFL Films shows, electric football, and Topps trading cards.
I've got thousands of them, sorted and boxed in the area on the other side of the PFT Live set in the attic of my garage. For a 10-year-old, there was nothing like the mini-dopamine rush from peeling the packs open, throwing away the thin brick of bubblegum, and flipping through the cards.
Now, Topps is back in the game. On Thursday, Fanatics Collectibles, the NFL, and the NFL Players Association announced a new multi-year deal that makes Topps the exclusive trading card licensee for the first time since 2016.
2025 Topps Chrome Football will launch on April 15 at Topps.com, hobby shops, Fanatics Live, and NFLShop.com.
This year, the NFL Draft Main Theater and Main Stage will be located just outside Acrisure Stadium on Pittsburgh's North Shore, placing the Draft at the heart of one of the country's most recognizable sports districts. The players on the open market are critical, but Baltimore builds through the draft, and Eric DeCosta will have nearly a dozen picks to help replenish the talent that's expected to depart.
ESPN's foursome of Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, Jordan Reid, and Field Yates tested out something new -- a three-round, rotating 2026 mock draft. Kiper Jr., Miller, Reid, and Yates took turns making selections through the top 100 picks. Baltimore reloads with Jermod McCoy, Keylan Rutledge, and Malachi Fields to address key needs.
Ravens picks:
14. Jermod McCoy
McCoy didn't play at all in 2025 after tearing an ACL last January, but he's elite and had 4 interceptions and 9 pass breakups in 2024.
45. Keylan Rutledge
Rutledge is a 6'4", 330-pound guard prospect who progressed from a three-star recruit to a standout in the ACC. He became a first-team All-ACC selection in 2024 after starting 13 games at right guard. Before that, he was named a first-team All-Conference USA selection in 2023, having started 11 games at right guard. Additionally, he earned a Conference USA All-Freshman selection in 2022.
80. Malachi Fields
As a senior, Fields started all 12 games for the Irish, leading all players with an average of 17.5 yards per reception among those with at least 10 catches. He finished second on the team with a total of 630 receiving yards and five touchdown receptions.
Pete Golding finally responded to Clemsonfootball’s tampering accusations, and while he didn’t get overly detailed, he definitely pushed back on the narrative.
“There’s two sides to every story,” Golding said. “I’m not going to sit up here and use the podium as a grandstand and all of that. That’s why there is enforcement. That’s why we have our compliance office. They do all that.”
That response comes months after Dabo Swinney accused Ole Miss of going after linebacker Luke Ferrelli while he was already enrolled at Clemson. According to Swinney, the linebacker was attending classes and working with the team when contact was made, which led Clemson to send evidence to the NCAA.
Golding’s version tells a much different story. He said the connection with Ferrelli didn’t just pop up late in the process, pointing to an earlier visit before the Fiesta Bowl as the foundation of the relationship.
“The bottom line with the recruitment of Luke, he came here on an official visit prior to the Fiesta Bowl,” Golding said, adding that there wasn’t an open role at the time. “Right now, there ain’t a spot available. So if that spot becomes available, it’s yours.”
Once that opportunity opened up, the move happened quickly, something Golding framed as both sides getting what they wanted.
“(Ferrelli) is a kid that wanted to be here… We wanted him to be here.”
Where Clemson football sits in initial ESPN SP+ rankings entering 2026
Meanwhile, the NCAA has acknowledged the situation, stating it “Will investigate any credible allegations of tampering…,” but there’s still no update on the case.
For now, it’s two completely different explanations, no direct conversation between coaches, and a situation that still hasn’t been resolved.
Here is Ole Miss coach Pete Golding’s response to Dabo Swinney’s allegations of tampering with linebacker signee Luke Ferrelli.
He talks about a visit Ferrelli took to Ole Miss prior to Clemson, which was already known. Does not address the actual allegations of tampering. pic.twitter.com/5Yp35w9gBV
New Audible: Pete Golding finally responds to Dabo’s tampering accusations, but does he actually deny anything? Meanwhile, the Big Ten wants the NCAA to stop enforcing tampering rules altogether? @slmandel & I discuss, and answer your Mailbag questions: https://t.co/SGVbzhBA2T
The four superstars are shown taking turns adding a piece to the Lego FIFA World Cup Official Trophy set, and then trying to add their own figures on top of the trophy.
Mbappé and Messi have, of course, lifted the real trophy before, in 2018 and 2022 respectively, while Ronaldo and Vinicius will be aiming to win for the first time this summer in North America.
Lego will also be releasing four different Lego Editions sets for each of the four stars.
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 09: TE Kenyon Sadiq #18 of the Oregon Ducks runs the football as DB Jah Jah Boyd #16 of the Indiana Hoosiers chases him during the Indiana Hoosiers versus Oregon Ducks College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl on January 9, 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The story of the 2025 season for the Los Angeles Rams was their movement to more 12 and 13 personnel packages on offense. After being strictly an 11 personnel team for much of the Sean McVay era, the Rams leaned into multiple tight end sets at one of the highest rates in the NFL in 2025. While they brought back Tyler Higbee in free agency, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Rams draft a tight end. Colby Parkinson and Davis Allen are on the final year of their contracts. Given how often the Rams were in heavy tight end sets, it would make sense to keep five tight ends next year.
Throughout the draft process, I’ve watched around 25 tight ends. With each player, I grade a series of traits and then those traits get put into a ‘Rams fit’ formula based on things that the team tends to value at the position. The result is a ‘Fit Grade’. This isn’t necessarily a list ranking the best tight ends in the class, but ranking them based on how they fit the Rams. It’s the reason you might see a consensus Day 3 player like Oscar Delp graded higher than a consensus second-round player like Max Klare.
While this is technically a fit ranking, I like to look at things in buckets and tiers. Many teams, including the Rams, do the same. Below is every tight end that I’ve watched separated into five Rams fit tiers.
Elite/Excellent Rams Fits
Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon – 9.2
Eli Raridon, Notre Dame – 8.5
It’s very possible that, when all is said and done, Sadiq ends up as the top player or at least a top-3 player on my Rams fits board. He is arguably the best pure schematic match for the Rams in this draft. His 4.39 speed that he showed at the NFL Combine in combination with his explosiveness makes him a math-changing player for the offense. Sadiq is alignment versatile and great at creating after the catch in the open field. While there is some improvement needed with his route-running and blocking, the foundation is there.
After re-signing Tyler Higbee, there is a question of where Sadiq fits within the offense. However, Sadiq is the type of player that an offensive mind like McVay finds a role for. The Rams utilized more 13 personnel than any team in the NFL last season and a player like Sadiq allows them to expand on that.
Good/Very Good Rams Fits
Oscar Delp, Georgia – 8.3
Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt – 8.25
Max Klare, Ohio State – 8.25
Joe Royer, Cincinnati – 8.2
Michael Trigg, Baylor – 8.15
Sam Roush, Stanford – 8.1
Jack Endries, Texas – 8.05
Roush is more of a prototypical tight end, but he’s someone that can line up in-line and serve as an extension of the offensive line. Again, that skillset is perfect for 12 and 13 personnel where the Rams have used their tight ends more in pass protection and in the run game. Roush may not have necessarily been a strong fit in the past, but given what the Rams became last year, the Stanford tight end fits their current structure.
With that said, Endries might be one of my favorite tight ends in this class. He simply checks a lot of boxes as an “F” or “move” tight end. Endries brings alignment versatility and has fantastic ball skills and contested catch ability. He’s deceptively fast and one of the more complete “Rams-style” tight ends in the class. Nothing about him is necessarily flashy, but he’ll be a reliable starter at the next level.
Jack Endries (6’5 245) Texas
+ Work ethic to go from an initial walk-on at Cal to a starter + 59.4% career contested catch rate + Effective against zone coverage + Productive pass catcher with almost 1,400 receiving yards over the past three seasons + Ability to play in-line,… pic.twitter.com/3TX0crfs6y
Justin Joly is another one of my favorite tight ends in this class. He’s an alignment versatile tight end with high-end ball skills and contested catch ability. He shows good route craft and tempo manipulation and his size makes him a threat in the red zone. Joly also displays an ability to contribute in pass protection which the Rams have done more with their tight ends since moving to more 12 and 13 personnel. Joly has a lot of upside as a mid-round tight end.
As a tight end on Day 3, John Michael Gyllenborg could make sense. He’s an explosive athlete and alignment versatile with the ability to stress a defense vertically. There is a lot of upside here as a pass-catcher, but he’s still very raw and needs to develop. The upside is that of a TE3, but he could be an option to replace Davis Allen who is on the final year of his rookie contract.
Koziol doesn’t add much as a blocker, but he might be my favorite tight end in this tier. He brings elite size at 6’6 with high-end ball skills and advanced route feel and leverage manipulation. Koziol is also alignment versatile and his size makes him a threat in the red zone. This is a tight end that the Rams could use as a big slot and can create mismatches against smaller defensive backs. He’s more of a receiving-only tight end which limits his role, but the potential is exciting.
Tanner Koziol (6’6 247) Houston
+ 9.72 relative athletic score + Fantastic in contested catch situations with his height and length (74.1% in 2025) + Red zone target and production with 24 career receiving touchdowns + 2.25 yards per route ran in 2025 + Only a 2.6% drop rate in… pic.twitter.com/LZggYcfMpT
I wasn’t a huge fan of anybody in this group, but if there is one worth taking a chance on late in the draft, it might be Nowakowski. He does bring alignment versatility and is reliable in the passing game with zero drops. He also adds some value in pass protection and on special teams. With that said, he’s more of a blocking first profile which the Rams typically haven’t targeted. He simply doesn’t align with what the Rams have looked for at the position.
MILTON, Ga. — Nearly 200 prospects competed in the high school session at the MVP Camp on Sunday, and as always, the event produced a mix of established names and emerging talent.
Across every position group, players stepped up — and several left Milton with real momentum heading into the offseason.
Offensive line
Up front, Michael Pickard delivered one of the most dominant performances of the day. Long, athletic and technically sound, he controlled reps in one-on-ones and consistently won with his length and footwork.
Anel Alic also impressed with his mobility and reach, showing the ability to keep defenders off his frame, while Amaree Joshua stood out immediately at 6-foot-7, using his size and strength to win reps. Kennesaw State, Mississippi State and Wake Forest have offered Joshua, and he will add many more in the coming months. Joshua was named Top Performer of his position by the coaches.
Thomas Gosier flashed intriguing upside with his athleticism and frame, while Braxton Harris showed raw power and movement ability at over 320 pounds. Carter Levstek rounded out a strong group with active hands and the ability to reset during reps.
Defensive line
Defensively, Xzavier Pfister was the most disruptive edge presence, earning Top Performer honors among the OL/DL group with his ability to bend and win consistently off the edge. He is an intriguing prospect with ability to stand up or put his hand in the dirt. Over a dozen schools have offered.
Christian Hunter showcased explosiveness and quick hands. He works with power, but moves well for his size. Roderick Johnson used his strength and length to control matchups, and was a top performer.
Inside, Christian Williams played with leverage and strength, winning most of his one-on-one reps, while Deontae Walker flashed size, burst and fluid movement at over 320 pounds.
Four-star Jamir Lee continued to build on his momentum with a strong showing, using a quick first step and power to disrupt. He is already a big name in the Peach State with over a dozen offers, including one from Texas.
Young talent also showed up, including KJ Biermann Jr. (2029), who displayed advanced technique for his age, and Christian McGowan, who flashed length, speed and upside.
Running back
At running back, Solomon James separated himself as the top performer at the position. Smooth, fluid and effective as a receiver, James showcased versatility and playmaking ability throughout the day. He’s a physically-gifted back who was fluid in drill work and showed soft hands out of the backfield. As a sophomore last season for Woodland, the sleeper back ran for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns. He will not be a sleeper for long.
Linebacker
At linebacker, Quentavius Price stood out on his home turf. His ability to move in space, combined with his length and range, made him one of the more intriguing defensive prospects in attendance. Price left was the Top Performer award.
Quarterback
At quarterback, Grayson Clary delivered one of the most complete performances of the day. He made every throw with ease, showing a clean release and strong arm talent that continues to draw national attention. He will be a name you hear a lot about in the 2028 class.
Trace Hawkins, another 2028 signal caller, impressed with consistency and touch, while Chandler Dyson showcased arm strength and the ability to deliver at all levels. Duke is high on Hawkins’ list and Dyson was at Alabama on Wednesday.
Additional quarterbacks Baynes Collins, Foard Streeter and Jordan Wiggins also drew praise from camp staff for their performances.
Wide Receiver/Tight end
The receiver group featured multiple standouts, led by Kemarii Reed who earned overall top receiver honors. Reed consistently won with speed, body control and strong hands, including a highlight one-handed grab.
Deuntrey Allen Jr. flashed elite speed and separation, while Trey Walkabout impressed with smooth route running and body control.
Cam Hurst was smooth all afternoon. He was in the discussion for the Top Performer at his position. Great frame, very fluid, and he will be one of the top receivers in the state in 2028.
Joey Hunter drew a lot of attention on Sunday. After checking in at almost 6-feet, 6-inches tall and 255-pounds, he ran the 40 yard dash in sub 4.8 seconds. He is a big tight end with schools like Georgia Tech and North Carolina in pursuit, and the frame to add good weight. Very intriguing prospect.
Kyle Cummings showed quickness off the line, while AJ Sneed backed up his speed with strong camp performance. Ethan Cahill added to the group with consistent playmaking and ball skills.
Defensive back
In the secondary, Malek Dorsey emerged as the defensive back MVP, showing length, versatility and the ability to play both on and off coverage.
Brian Clegg Jr. impressed with his ability to compete on both sides of the ball, while Trey Moore showed fluid movement and length at corner.
Aiden Watts flashed versatility between safety and nickel roles, and Christian Jackson combined a safety build with corner movement skills.
A former Michigan State legend quarterback has found his next team.
It was announced on Thursday morning that former Spartans quarterback Kirk Cousins has signed with the Las Vegas Raiders. His agent announced the move on social media on Thursday.
Terms of Cousins' new deal with the Raiders have not been reported or released yet.
Cousins most recently played with the Atlanta Falcons, spending two years with the NFC South franchise before he was released this offseason. Cousins has played 14 seasons in the NFL, throwing for nearly 45,000 yards and just under 300 touchdowns across 167 starts. The Raiders will be Cousins' fourth team, with stops at Washington, Minnesota and Atlanta before heading to Las Vegas.
The Raiders have the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft and are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. So it'll be interesting to see if Cousins will be contending for the starting spot with Mendoza, or if he's been brought in to serve as a veteran backup to help his pro career progression.
Breaking: Kirk Cousins is signing with the Raiders, his agent announced on social media. pic.twitter.com/dNkZr9faQy
Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page onFacebookto follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Robert Bondy on X @RobertBondy5.
It’s difficult to be a Northwestern baseball fan and not be reeling in frustration after a disappointing series loss to Washington in Seattle. In what felt like a pivotal moment in the Wildcats’ season, they faltered, suffering two substantial losses and barely eking out their only win by a single run. The Huskies outplayed the ‘Cats on both sides of the ball all weekend, and it’s getting increasingly difficult to maintain a positive outlook for Ben Greenspan’s squad in his third year.
The Good
Despite the compounding concerns I have for this team, I continue to be impressed by their late game competitiveness and execution. Since the opening series at Rice, Northwestern is 5-1 in one-run games. In the analytical world, a team’s record in one-run contests is viewed as a highly variable statistic rather than an indication of some coachable clutch skill. I’ve never subscribed to that narrative; when games are close in the late innings, preparation and poise shine brighter than ever. The early innings continued to kill the ‘Cats against Washington, but from the fifth inning onwards, Northwestern outscored Washington 8-7. Some poor starting pitching performances put Northwestern too far behind the eight-ball to come back, but this team will always fight.
The Bad
The weekend in Seattle, in all respects, was ugly. The thrill of a 10-9 victory where the ‘Cats nearly avoided a Huskies ninth-inning comeback can’t gloss over the roster’s glaring weaknesses. Last week, I wrote about how Northwestern ranks last in the Big Ten in the ratio of pitcher to batter strikeouts. The team didn’t help itself over the weekend. Northwestern batters struck out 27 times and their pitchers only punched 23 tickets. To add insult to injury, the ‘Cats drew just six walks, while conceding 14. Walks and strikeouts are just two metrics of performance, but they are isolated incidents compared to balls put in play. In a game where so much is decided in awkward bounces and unexpected gusts of wind, Northwestern continues to struggle in the two areas where a team’s performance is fully in their control.
But the issues with both run production and prevention extend beyond the walk and strikeout numbers. The Wildcats rank dead last in batting average in the Big Ten. Although they managed to collect 12 extra-base hits across the weekend, Northwestern hitters simply do not put the barrel on the ball consistently enough to capitalize when it matters. Coming into the season, I felt so assured in my belief that this team would go as far as their arms would take them. With 25 games in the rearview mirror, I can admit the offense is simply not as well-rounded as I thought it would be.
The Best
In a series where the usual names didn’t fill up the stat sheet, the Wildcats got some solid contribution from a few surprising faces. Logan de Groot, who has been swinging the bat very well since being inserted into the starting lineup against Oregon, recorded hits in all three games of the series. The sophomore isn’t known for his pop, but he walks at a decent clip and, for a team that struggles to accumulate base hits, his five-game hitting streak is a sight for sore eyes. Behind the dish, Shane Hofstadtler filled in for Jay Slater in all three games and more than pulled his weight. He mashed two doubles, a home run and knocked in five runs to provide some much needed juice when so many Wildcats’ bats sputtered. Hofstadler proved that Ben Greenspan has a genuinely reliable catching duo, which will likely prove vital as the season wears on.
Northwestern will continue the search for their first Big Ten series win at home against Michigan State over the weekend. The Spartans, who are 4-8 in conference, are beatable and lack elite talent. If the ‘Cats hope to get their season back on track, it starts this Friday, April 3rd, at 3 p.m.
SEATTLE — Paul Goldschmidt was in the batter’s box with two on and two out in the Yankees' sixth inning of Tuesday’s game at T-Mobile Park as Aaron Judge watched.
With one foot on the top dugout step and the other on the second, Judge leaned on the padded rail, studying the action, with left fielder Cody Bellinger to his left, assistant hitting coach Casey Dykes to his right.
Mariners righty Logan Gilbert’s 1-1 pitch was a grooved middle-in fastball. Goldschmidt, off the bench and in the lineup, showed he still has a lot of right-handed pop at age 38, blasting the mistake pitch to deep, deep left field for a home run.
Before the baseball sailed over the wall, Judge hopped over the dugout railing to clap and cheer Goldschmidt’s first homer of the season, then they slapped hands when meeting at the dugout entrance.
Suddenly ahead 4-0, the Yankees were on their way to a 5-3 victory that capped a season-opening 5-1 road trip that had a lot more to do with historic pitching than the usual heroics from Judge, their three-time American League MVP.
It’s been a rough first week for the Yankees captain, whose biggest contribution in Wednesday’s series finale probably was leadership and cheerleading.
In four at-bats, Judge was hitless with a strikeout. He reached first base his last time up on a throwing error by Mariners third baseman Brendan Donovan, then was caught stealing with a perfect throw by catcher Cal Raleigh.
Judge’s hitless afternoon sank his average to .125 in six games. In 25 plate appearances, Judge has three hits, 11 strikeouts and one walk. He’s hit the ball right at outfielders, but has also looked bad chasing in other at-bats.
Should we make anything of the Yankees’ Superman more resembling Clark Kent for a week?
Judge was 3 for 24 after six games two years ago, the season he was batting .197 through May 2.
How did that turn out? He ended nearly winning a Triple Crown with 58 homers, 144 RBIs and a .322 average.
Here’s a little more Yankees history to ponder:
Judge batted .211 with one homer in his first six games in 2017, then was up to .303 with 10 homers by the end of April and finished at .284 with an AL rookie record 52 home runs.
Before Sunday’s game, Yankees manager Aaron Boone was asked if he typically sees something from Judge to sense a hot streak.
Smiling, Boone responded, “When he shows up! Yeah, I saw him walk in today, so that could be the sign!”
It wasn’t, but maybe Friday when the Yankees play the Marlins (5-1) in their home opener.
The Yankees know it’s coming because it always does.
“It’s just early in the season,” Boone said. “It’s a small stretch. Even for him, when it’s not clicking at a level we’re accustomed to seeing with him all the time, he’s still had a major impact in two wins offensively coupled with all the other things he brings to the table on defense and in the dugout.”
Judge’s two homers were big ones.
Last Friday’s game in San Francisco was scoreless until Judge hit a two-run homer in the sixth, and the Yankees went on to win 3-0. The next day, he hit a solo shot in a 3-1 Yankees win.
No, the Yankees aren’t concerned, not even a little bit.
“With Judgy, it’s always a matter of time before he gets dialed in from a timing standpoint, and off we go,” Boone said.
JUDGE’S 1ST 6 GAMES
2016: .304 average, 7 for 23, 2 HR, 4 RBI, 2 BB, 8 K
2017: .211 average, 4 for 19, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 5 K
2018: .286 average, 6 for 21, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 6 BB, 8 K
2019: .333 average, 7 for 21, 0 HR, 3 RBI, 6 BB, 10 K
2020: .250 average, 6 for 24, 0 HR, 10 RBI, 3 BB, 6 K
2021: .346 average, 9 for 26, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 1 BB, 6 K
2022: .292 average, 7 for 24, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 3 BB, 6 K
2023: .348 average, 8 for 23, 2 HR, 4 RBI, 3 BB, 10 K
2024: .125 average, 3 for 24, 0 HR, 1 RBI, 3 BB, 7 K
2025: .417 average, 10 for 24, 5 HR, 15 RBI, 3 BB, 7 K
2026: .125 average, 3 for 24, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 1 BB, 11 K
The Pittsburgh Pirates announced on their social media account that Griffin, the league’s number one prospect, will be making his debut on Friday when the team hosts the Baltimore Orioles.
Griffin was a strong candidate to make the team out of spring training, but the Pirates opted against it; however, the organization could not keep the 19-year-old shortstop down for long. Griffin was chosen with the number nine overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft out of high school, and he has tore his way through the minor leagues in his brief time as a professional. In five games with AAA-Indianapolis this season, he has seven hits in 16 at-bats, proving that he belongs with the big league club.
BD Community, what do you think of Griffin’s promotion? How excited are you to see him with the Bucs? Chime in the comment section below.
Steven Gerrard "regrets" leaving Rangers for Aston Villa but says he was unimpressed with the Ibrox club's ambition after winning the league.
The Liverpool legend guided Rangers to their first top-flight title in 10 years in 2021, an unbeaten league campaign in which they finished 25 points ahead of Celtic.
Just six months later Gerrard departed to join English Premier League side Villa, where he lasted less than a year before being sacked.
"The level was a big jump," Gerrard admitted on The Overlap.
"I probably didn't realise at the time when I made that decision. In hindsight I would have stayed at Rangers longer and got more experience. Now, sitting here, I regret [leaving when I did].
"The conversations with Rangers after we won [the league], the recruitment and finance chats we were having, it didn't feel like Rangers were ready to go again.
"It was a bit more like, 'Oh, let's settle this and fix that and do that.' The promises weren't as strong as what I thought they would be.
"Then the Premier League offer and opportunity comes in, it's tough. It's tough to say no to Villa, a great club. I have nothing bad to say about them."
Official: Buffon leaves his role with Italy after missing out on 2026 World Cup
Gianluigi Buffon has confirmed that he has resigned from his role as the delegation chief of the Italy national team following the departure of Gabriele Gravina as FIGC President.
Heads are rolling within the Italy national team set-up. FIGC President Gabriele Gravina officially resigned on Tuesday, Buffon has confirmed that he has stepped down and head coach Gennaro Gattuso is expected to follow as well.
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The departures of the senior figures of the Italy national team are leaving in the wake of the penalty shoot-out defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Tuesday night’s World Cup play-off final, which cost the Azzurri a place at the World Cup for the third time in a row.
Buffon, in a long statement posted to his Instagram story, confirmed that he offered his resignation immediately after the Bosnia defeat on Tuesday night, but was asked to hold off from making any formal announcements.
Now that Gravina has officially resigned, Buffon has made his decision public as well.
Buffon had served as the head of the delegation of the Italy national team from the summer of 2023.
What Buffon said about Italy resignation
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Gianluigi Buffon, Head of Delegation of Italy, looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Resigning just after the end of the match against Bosnia was an urgent act, one that came from deep within me. As spontaneous as the tears that ache in my heart, and which I know I share with all of you,” Buffon wrote in a statement on Instagram.
“I was asked to stall until everyone had the time to reflect. Now that President Gravina has chosen to step back, I feel free to do what I feel is the responsible act. Despite my sincere belief that I have built so much in terms of team spirit with Rino Gattuso and all of my collaborators in the very short time available to the national team, the main objective was to bring Italy back to the World Cup. And we didn’t succeed.
“It’s right to leave those who will follow me to choose the person they deem best to fill my role.
“Representing the national team is an honor for me and a passion that has consumed me since I was a boy.
“I have tried to do my role by putting all my energy into it, wanting all sectors to be linked, a link for dialogue and synergy between various youth teams, striving to structure a project that starts with the very young lads and reaches all the way up to the U21 national teams. This was to rethink the way in which the talents of the future senior national team are developed.
“I requested and obtained the inclusion of a few key, highly experienced figures, who are bringing out these necessary chances with a medium and long-term vision. This is because I believe in the policy of meritocracy. It will be up to those in charge to judge the wisdom of these choices.
“I hold everything in my heart, with gratitude for the privilege and the lessons learned, even if it is a painful epilogue.
Linux use amongst PC gamers is growing, and Valve’s Steam Machine isn’t even out yet Valve has released its March 2026 Steam hardware survey, and it is clear that Linux adoption continues to grow among gamers. Now, Linux use has reached an all-time high of 5.33% of Steam users. This month, Linux has over twice […]
HP's first laptop featuring the new Qualcomm Snapdragon Elite X2 SoC is now available to buy, and it should be the right choice for anyone who wants an ultra-thin, ultra-light PC with outstanding performance and efficiency.
The HP Omen MAX 16" configuration with an RTX 5070 graphics card, Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and more is now on sale at a whopping 32% discount.
Microsoft has unveiled a host of in-house AI models, including MAI-Transcribe-1, MAI-Voice-1, and MAI-Image-2, which will be available via Microsoft Foundry.
The latest ThreatsDay Bulletin is basically a cheat sheet for everything breaking on the internet right now. No corporate fluff or boring lectures here, just a quick and honest look at the messy reality of keeping systems safe this week.
Things are moving fast. The list includes researchers chaining small bugs together to create massive backdoors, old software flaws
IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced a strategic collaboration with Arm to develop new dual‑architecture hardware that helps enterprises run future AI and data intensive workloads with greater flexibility, reliability, and security.
IBM's leadership in system design, from silicon to software and security, has helped enterprises adopt emerging technologies with the scale and reliability required for mission‑critical workloads. As AI moves deeper into core business operations, IBM continues to invest in hardware platforms such as the Telum II processor and Spyre Accelerator, which are designed to bring AI from experimentation into everyday enterprise use.
Nintendo can respond to the decision within two months, amend the claims, and appeal. But the fact that the examiner rejected all 26 claims is hardly a great look for a patent that IP lawyers were hammering long before this latest ruling arrived.
The people, who asked not to be identified because the details are private, said SpaceX could seek a valuation above $1.75 trillion, eclipsing Saudi Aramco's 2019 IPO as the biggest to date.
TrendForce reports that DRAM and NAND costs will continue increasing in the second quarter of 2026 as demand from AI data centers remains strong. Meanwhile, sources from the tech industry supply chain have informed Nikkei Asia that shortages of basic materials will raise the prices of printed circuit boards and...
The release notes for Ubuntu 26.04 LTS show that Canonical has quietly raised the minimum RAM requirement for its popular Linux-based operating system by 50%.
ClawCloud provides fully managed hosting for OpenClaw, giving you a private, always-on AI assistant with no setup. Each plan includes a dedicated, isolated instance that stays online 24/7 while the team handles updates, security, scaling, and daily backups. Just log in and start using your assistant to automate tasks across email, code, the browser, files, and more, with priority support available on higher tiers.
Costlix is an AI-powered comparison engine that analyzes pricing, features, and reviews to deliver clear tables and detailed cost breakdowns. It reveals hidden fees, subscription tiers, and long-term value so you can see which option fits your budget. Use it to compare software, electronics, household goods, and travel, with recommendations tailored to your usage.
After censoring the internet for years, the Kremlin is now pushing citizens to the state-controlled MAX by further targeting VPN usage. But the disconnect over the Telegram shutdown could be the needed turning point.
The TSA wait times feature is one of many new additions to the United app, including automatic rebooking assistance and real-time time weather radar maps.
It is the path of least resistance for a growth-stage company to hire from the familiar Silicon Valley pipelines but if a founder wants a diverse team, that value has to be put into practice from the very first hire.
With their new terminal nowhere near ready to welcome guests, Norwegian Cruise Line is finally offering passengers an idea as to what they should expect on Norwegian Jewel’s embarkation day. As one passenger asked in a Facebook message group devoted to the first sailing, “Is this the best they can do?”
Temporary Plans Are Being Made
For months, anticipation has been building, with the Norwegian Jewel set to become the first ship to sail out of Philadelphia in nearly 15 years. But as the first sail dates drew near, it quickly became clear that things weren’t exactly going to plan.
Rendering of what the completed PhilaPort will look like… eventually.
“We are excited to bring cruising back to Philadelphia for the first time in many years,” read a statement from Norwegian Cruise line released in late March. “Given the absence of cruising in the market for quite some time, we are working closely with our partners at PhilaPort to prepare the facility to welcome guests.”
Now, we know exactly what those plans entail and they are, to say the least, unconventional.
What To Expect on Embarkation Day
In a letter sent to booked guests and travel partners, Norwegian promised that they are working to make sure the “modified check-in experience is as efficient as possible.”
So what will be different? Pretty much everything.
First, the line advises particular care be taken with luggage tags, given that the drop-off process will not be conducted in the usual manner. In fact, the process will take place at the Clarion Hotel Philadelphia Airport.
Upon arriving, guests will be directed to a parking area “reserved for our guests.” Fees, the letter says, will be paid directly to the hotel at a rate of approximately $16 per day.
As for luggage, “drop off will take place just outside the hotel entrance,” the letter explains. “After dropping your bags, you’ll proceed inside to complete parking payment and continue to check in” which will take place in the hotel’s ballroom.
‘Our Team Will Do Their Best’
One extremely important bit of information the letter provides is that “while wheelchair assistance will not be available at the Clarion Hotel, our staff will do their best to assist guests with mobility needs. Once at the port, wheelchair assistance will be provided for those who have requested assistance to embark on the ship.”
Once check in has been completed, passengers will board a shuttle and be transported to the pier.
The missive ends with a bold-typed warning: “For everyone’s safety and to ensure smooth access at PhilaPort, guests cannot make their way to the port, and there is no option to check in at the ship. Only guests arriving on the official busses from the Clarion Hotel will be allowed entry into the port area.”
It later notes that on debarkation days, guests “will be shuttled back to the Clarion Hotel” to pick up their cars and “arrange onward transportation.”
That may be easier said than done, as the letter makes clear that “ride shares and taxi services will not be available from the pier. Guests requiring these services may arrange pickup from the Clarion Hotel.”
‘I Refuse to Get Stressed Out’
As details unfurled, many found themselves unhappy with the arrangements being made. Others, however, took a more positive approach. “As long as I’m on board when that ship sets sail,” commented one Redditor, “I’m good. I mean, I’d love for my luggage to be on board, too, but I refuse to get stressed out about it!”
Thankfully, the situation, like many of life’s more annoying bumps in the proverbial road, is only temporary. “Once this construction is finished,” shared one of our travel associates, “it will actually be quite easy to get in and out of the terminal and the parking area. Right now, however, it will be a disaster.”
Aena has won the concession to operate Rio de Janeiro’s Galeão airport after a competitive public auction, strengthening its position as Brazil’s largest private airport operator. The Spanish group secured the licence with a bid […]
Hertz data highlights the best days to save spring break travel, as demand spreads across multiple weeks in March and April, offering travellers more flexibility and savings opportunities. Instead of one peak holiday period, demand […]
Taiwan-based China Airlines has unveiled its second Pokemon-themed aircraft in partnership with The Pokemon Company, the “Pikachu Jet CI2”. The Airbus A350-900 features a vibrant livery of flying Pokémon under the “Flying Out to the […]
SAS marks the start of its 80th year of operations with a specially painted Airbus A330-300, celebrating eight decades of connecting Scandinavia with the world. Throughout 2026, the airline will highlight its heritage and continued […]
Tauck has christened its new riverboats, the Lumière and the Serene, in two separate ceremonies, the company said in a press release. The ceremony for the Lumière was held in Lyon on March 27, with around 50 guests, including Tauck leaders, travel advisors, supplier partners and members of the media, in attendance. “Our past river...
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, Flip 8, and a new model tentatively called the Wide Fold will all ship with M13 OLED panels, according to industry sources.
If the info is accurate, Samsung’s about to launch 2026 foldables with the same OLED it started using three years ago. M14 already exists, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra is already using it, but Samsung’s keeping it away from foldables.
An industry insider defended (via ETNews) the decision, noting that M13 keeps improving through optimization even without a full material change. Samsung is squeezing more performance from less material over time.
That means lower costs without switching to an entirely new chemical cocktail that would require new supply agreements and months of testing. But it’s still the same core tech from 2024 powering phones launching in later this year.
Samsung Display will exclusively supply all OLED panels for Galaxy foldables this year. No competition, no alternative.
The Wide Fold represents Samsung’s first attempt at a different form factor in years, and it’s launching with three-year-old screen technology while the company’s own flagship slab phone flaunts something newer.
This marks three consecutive years of M13 in folding phones. The material set debuted with the Galaxy S24 series in 2024, then spread to the Z Fold 6 and Flip 6. Then the S25 series. Then the Z Fold 7 and Flip 7. Even the regular S26 and S26 Plus got M13.
The Leica D-Lux 8 is cheaper than some flagship smartphones, but still offers a much larger sensor, an OLED viewfinder, a fast 24 - 75 mm zoom lens and better ergonomics. With a few simple upgrades, the Leica D-Lux 9 could become the perfect smartphone upgrade.
The Citizen Veya FE1262-03A watch has been officially released in the US. Spotted earlier in 2026 year alongside three other colorways, this sporty model has a metal bezel and casing, alongside a silicone strap.
Casio is bringing its MTP-B190D tank-style watches to the US, offering a polished dress-watch look with stainless steel bracelets and striking Roman numerals. The pair keeps things simple and affordable with a three-hand quartz movement (±20 seconds/month), 50m water resistance, and a three-year battery.
The Honor Play 80 Pro goes official in China with a large 7,000 mAh battery. The smartphone features a Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 chipset, a 60 Hz LCD panel, and a 50 MP primary camera. On top of this, it comes with blue, white, and black colorways.
Apple launched the second-generation AirTag back in January, and now the tracker is receiving a firmware update. This takes the tracker's firmware up to version 3.0.45.
It comes with the usual unnamed bug fixes and improvements, along with an update to the unwanted tracking feature (aka anti-stalking). The unwanted tracking sound is now updated in order to more easily be able to locate an unknown AirTag with Precision Finding.
Basically, if you're being stalked with an AirTag, you'll receive a notification on your iPhone saying an unknown AirTag has been traveling with you, and you...
In late March, Honor started teasing the upcoming 600 series in Malaysia, and today the brand is continuing the teaser campaign on its global X account. The post associated with the images you can see below reads "get ready for an epic upgrade", which makes us think we should expect the 600 series to be well above the 500 series.
Honor 600 series new teasers
As you can see, Honor promises a new ultra-thin design, long-lasting endurance, and an "entirely fluid experience". Camera-wise, we're apparently getting "flagship-level details" at night, and this is all powered by a...
Bu gün futzal üzrə Azərbaycan çempionatında (Yüksək Liqa) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 16-cı turunun oyunları keçirilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bununla da cari mövsümün 4-cü dövrəsinə start verilib.
“Olimpik Star”da baş tutmuş turun ilk oyununda iddialılardan “Araz-Naxçıvan” “Baku Fire” ilə üz-üzə gəlib. Son çempion rəqibi üzərində inamlı qələbəyə sevinib.
Günün digər oyununda “Şuşa” U-19 millimizlə qarşılaşmalı idi. Amma “Şuşa” komandası təyin olunan vaxtda meydana çıxmadığına görə, U-19-la görüş keçirilməyib. Bu matçın nəticəsi ilə bağlı AFFA İntizam Komitəsi qərar verəcək.
“Lənkəran” komandası isə federasiyaya rəsmi müraciət edərək növbəti oyunlarda iştitak edə bilməyəcəyini bildirib. Əsasnaməyə uyğun olaraq, əyalət təmsilçisi çempionatın oyunlarının 50 faizindən çoxunda iştirak etdiyinə görə, lider “Neftçi”nin aktivinə 3 xal yazılıb.
Yüksək Liqa 16-cı tur 2 aprel
Araz-Naxçıvan – Baku Fire 5:1 Hakimlər: Knyaz Əmiraslanov, Hidayət Feyzullayev, Ramil Namazov Hakim-inspektor: Murad Məmmədov Bakı. “Olimpik Star”. Saat 14:00.
Şuşa – U-19 matçı baş tutmayıb Hakimlər: Əli Cəbrayılov, İmran Məhərrəmov, Hikmət Qafarlı. Hakim-inspektor: Azad Hüseynov. Bakı. “Olimpik Star”. Saat 16:00.
Xallar: Neftçi İK – 43. Araz-Naxçıvan – 40. Baku Fire – 29. Şuşa – 18. U-19 – 9. Lənkəran – 0.
Azərbaycanlı FİFA referisi Kamal Umudlu 19 yaşadək futbolçular arasında Avropa çempionatının seçmə mərhələ oyunlarını idarə edib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə AFFA-nın mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb.
Xəbərdə bildirilir ki, azərbaycanlı referi 19 yaşadək futbolçular (U-19) arasında Avropa çempionatının seçmə mərhələsinin 1-ci raundunun 3 oyununda fəaliyyət göstərib.
Kamal Umudlu A qrupunun İsveç – Sloveniya və Belçika – İsveç matçlarında baş hakim olub. O, Belçika – Sloveniya qarşılaşmasında isə ehtiyat hakim kimi fəaliyyət göstərib.
Digər azərbaycanlı referi Vüsal Məmmədov isə hər üç qarşılaşmada baş hakimin köməkçisi funksiyasını yerinə yetirib.
Torino, Emirhan İlkhan'ın sözleşmesinde yer alan uzatma opsiyonunu kullanmayı düşünüyor. İtalyan ekibi, ligde kalmayı garantiledikten sonra 21 yaşındaki futbolcusu ile görüşecek ve uzun süreli yeni bir sözleşme önerecek.
Golden State Warriors'ın eski başkanı Bob Myers, Dallas Mavericks'in genel menajer arayışında en sık dile getirilen isim olarak öne çıktı. Bu bilgi, The Stein Line'da yazan NBA muhabiri Marc Stein tarafından paylaşıldı.
Ayrılık kararı almasının ardından Galatasaray'a transfer olabileceği konuşulan Mohamed Salah ile ilgili dikkat çeken bir açıklama geldi. Liverpool'un efsane isimlerinden Steven Gerrard, Mısırlı yıldızın...Devamı için tıklayınız
Fenerbahçe ve Galatasaray'ın ilgilendiği Roma'nın yıldızı Paulo Dybala hakkında Brezilya basınından flaş bir iddia geldi. İşte detaylar...Devamı için tıklayınız
Fransa ile Kolombiya arasında oynanan hazırlık maçına dakika 78'de yedek kulübesinden dahil olan Kylian Mbappe, Rayan Cherki'ye seslenerek N'Golo Kante'nin kolundaki kaptanlık pazubandını kendisine getirmesini...Devamı için tıklayınız
Gənclər və idman naziri Fərid Qayıbov ötən ay ərzində beynəlxalq yarışlarda yüksək nəticələr əldə etmiş idmançılarla görüşüb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, Azərbaycan İdman Akademiyasında təşkil olunan görüşdə “Azərbaycan Əməkdar idman ustası”, “Azərbaycan Respublikasının İdman ustası” dərəcəsinə layiq görülmüş şəxslərə müvafiq vəsiqə və döş nişanlarını təqdim edilib.
Beynəlxalq arenalarda qazanılan nailiyyətləri yüksək dəyərləndirən Fərid Qayıbov idmançıları və onların məşqçilərini təbrik edib. O, çıxışında bildirib ki, mart ayı ərzində Azərbaycanın Dövlət Himni 12 ölkədə səsləndirilib. İdmançılarımız ümumilikdə 40 qızıl, 35 gümüş və 43 bürünc medal qazanıblar.
Beynəlxalq arenalarda qazanılan nailiyyətləri əks etdirən videoçarx nümayiş olunub. Bir sıra idman növlərinin nümayəndələri çıxış etdikləri yarışlar və nəticələri barədə məlumat veriblər.
Sonda Fərid Qayıbov idmançılara qarşıdakı yarışlarda daha böyük qələbələr arzulayıb.
Rumıniya millisi baş məşqçi Mirça Luçesku ilə yollarını ayırıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə federasiyanın mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. Mütəxəssislə müqaviləyə qarşılıqlı razılaşma əsasında xitam verilib.
Rumıniya milli komandası dünya çempionatına vəsiqə qazana bilməyib.
İtaliya Futbol Federasiyasının prezidenti Qabriel Qravina istefa verib. Msport.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə federasiyanın mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. Qravina […]
For years, the knock on traditional banking has been simple: markets move around the clock, but banks do not. SoFi is building the alternative.
The nationally chartered US bank launched Big Business Banking today, an enterprise platform that lets companies hold deposits, move money, and settle transactions at any hour through fiat or crypto, all inside a single federally regulated bank running on Solana.
Anthony Noto, SoFi’s CEO, framed the gap directly.
“To be competitive, businesses today must operate in a global, always-on environment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, while legacy banks typically still operate 9 to 5, Monday to Friday,” he said.
Mastercard, Galaxy, Fireblocks: Who Just Signed Up?
Ten firms are already in.
Initial participants include Cumberland, Bullish, BitGo, B2C2, Fireblocks, Wintermute, Galaxy, Jupiter, Mesh Payments and Mastercard. They represent the institutional infrastructure layer of the entire crypto industry.
Mastercard’s presence is particularly notable. The payments giant announced a $1.8 billion deal to acquire stablecoin infrastructure firm BVNK last month, a transaction still awaiting regulatory approval. It is now also a launch partner for SoFi’s regulated crypto banking platform.
How SoFi Got Here: 5 Months, 3 Moves
Today’s announcement did not arrive overnight.
In November 2025, SoFi became the first nationally chartered US bank to offer retail crypto trading. In February 2026, it became the first to enable direct on-chain Solana deposits for its 13.7 million members. Today, it has extended that infrastructure to enterprise clients – bringing institutional-grade fiat and crypto banking onto Solana rails for the first time.
Each step built on the last. Big Business Banking is where the retail and institutional layers converge.
SoFiUSD and the Stablecoin Layer
The platform introduces SoFiUSD as its native stablecoin, with mint and burn functionality allowing instant conversion between fiat and digital assets while reserves remain inside SoFi’s regulated bank. Companies can settle in fiat, SoFiUSD, or selected cryptocurrencies.
SOL is currently trading at $77.44, down 7.04% in the past 24 hours amid broader market weakness. SOFI stock closed at $15.63, down 1.57%, with after-hours trading pushing it further to $15.10.
The infrastructure is live. The question now is how fast the rest of the industry follows.
A tokenization platform closed a $100 million vault for a gold linked stablecoin in under 24 hours. An AI company shipped a toolkit enabling AI agents to verify they are backed by verified humans. And sustained Bitcoin ETF inflows have validated that institutional capital is arriving at a pace faster than at any point this cycle.
The Solana price prediction remains encouraging, despite the ongoing correction, and the market outlook is strengthening. But as far as standout tokens go, Pepeto is the one carrying massive return potential on the horizon. It has secured $8.69M at $0.000000186, and its exchange ecosystem is nearly ready for launch.
Just as whales accumulated Dogecoin at $0.0002 and rode it to $0.73, they are now quietly stacking Pepeto before exchange listings expose this project to the broader market.
Gold backed stablecoins, AI verification toolkits, and institutional inflows
A gold linked stablecoin exceeded its $100 million deposit cap within a single day, demonstrating institutional appetite for yield sources beyond conventional assets. In AI, a new verification toolkit launch marks a significant moment for enabling AI agents to carry proof of human backing while executing transactions online.
The broader market is responding with Bitcoin ETFs recording over $1 billion in inflows through March and the Solana price prediction strengthens alongside it.
Pepeto, Ethereum, and Aave: Where the gains reside this cycle
1. Pepeto
Before examining the Solana price prediction, we take a close look at the Pepeto project. Pepeto’s team of seasoned builders has assembled an exchange ecosystem so everyday traders can swap, bridge, and trade across multiple chains from one platform. PepetoSwap processes cross chain swaps, Pepeto Bridge transfers assets between blockchains, and Pepeto Exchange delivers a complete trading platform. All three products are nearly ready for launch.
The smart contract is audited by SolidProof, staking at 190% APY locks supply while compensating holders, and the PEPE cofounder behind this already constructed a coin valued at $7 billion. With $8.69M secured, exchange listings are approaching.
If you are invested in the solana price and moderate gains from established tokens, weigh the value of Pepeto by comparison. SOL sits at $82 heading to perhaps $95, roughly a 15% gain. Pepeto is priced at $0.000000186, the products are nearly ready, and the open market has not had an opportunity to price any of this in yet.
Buying now is the route to the highest returns once Pepeto makes its explosive run after exchange listings. The solana price prediction will perform well because SOL is a robust network. But Pepeto could accomplish something far more dramatic at a price that does not yet reflect its capabilities.
2. Solana Price Prediction
Solana has been generating headlines as its spot ETFs crept toward $1 billion in inflows, and recent gains appear strong on a dashboard. But a coin sitting at $47 billion requires tens of billions in fresh liquidity just to push the price meaningfully, and Solana sits right now at $82.72 according to CoinMarketCap.
Standard Chartered already reduced its 2026 Solana price prediction from $310 to $250. Converting $3,000 into $300,000 does not occur inside multi billion dollar coins that require institutional permission to shift. It occurs in untouched early projects like Pepeto that still possess all their growth runway ahead of them.
3. Ethereum
ETH is trading around $2,100 according to CoinMarketCap and it targets $2,600 and then $3,450. Moving averages approach a bullish crossover and RSI occupies positive territory. But at above $2,100, ETH is an enormous asset. That is its durability but also its ceiling.
The Solana price prediction alongside the Ethereum price both display percentage returns, not the explosive repricing of Pepeto at presale. Whales recognize this, which is why they accumulated Dogecoin early and are accumulating Pepeto now.
The verdict
Throughout every crypto cycle, the participants who constructed generational wealth were the ones who moved early into the right project before the masses caught on. They did not wait for the solana price prediction to validate the bull run. They identified the founder, the products, and the price, and they acted. Gold backed stablecoins are drawing nine figure deposits, institutional inflows are rewriting the playbook, and the solana price appears strong.
But none of those established tokens provides the presale pricing of Pepeto at $0.000000186 with $8.69M secured, a PEPE cofounder, SolidProof audit, 190% APY staking, and three products nearly ready for launch. This is the ground floor that early investors will reference for years.
Solana trades at $82 with Standard Chartered targeting $250 by year end and spot ETF inflows approaching $1 billion. From $47 billion, even the bull case represents roughly a 3x across months.
Why are early stage projects outperforming?
Presale entries provide upside that large caps at massive valuations mathematically cannot generate.
Is the solana price a safer bet than Pepeto?
Safer, perhaps. But Pepeto at $0.000000186 with exchange listings approaching provides far higher returns.
The ETH price is booming under the hood while barely moving where it actually counts. Sitting around $2,130, Ethereum looks… fine on the surface. But dig deeper, and the story gets a lot more interesting and honestly, a bit frustrating at the same time. Why? Because while price chops sideways, the network activity itself is quietly flexing heavily.
Network Activity Explodes While Price Lags Behind
Per the data, over 788,000 daily active addresses are seen. Another 255,000 new addresses are created every single day. That’s not just growth, that’s borderline obsession-level engagement. And yet, the ETH price chart doesn’t scream “bull run.”
So, Ethereum isn’t just growing users, it’s dominating a much bigger narrative: tokenization. A massive 61.4% of all tokenized assets live on Ethereum. We’re talking stablecoins, funds, stocks, commodities, the whole package. The market has ballooned from $50 billion in 2022 to over $200 billion today. And Ethereum owns most of it. That’s not hype. That’s infrastructure.
Liquidity Shifts Hint At Brewing Supply Shock
Now flip to the supply side, and things get even more interesting. Binance’s ETH reserves have dropped below their February 2024 lows, while USDT and USDC reserves are climbing meaning liquidity coming too.
Translation? ETH is quietly leaving exchanges and historically, when supply dries up while stablecoins pile in… well, it usually doesn’t end with sideways action for long. If this trend continues, it sets up a pretty compelling case for upward expansion in the ETH/USD pair.
ETH Price Prediction Hinges On Macro Relief
But for now, the Geopolitical uncertainty is still acting like a ceiling. The ETH price prediction in the short term still remains capped, with $2,390 acting as a stubborn resistance zone. Until that pressure eases, don’t expect fireworks just yet.
Still, the weekly structure tells a different story. Anchored VWAP data shows strong accumulation zones forming, with high-volume support holding firm. That’s not retail panic buying that’s calculated positioning. Smart money doesn’t chase headlines; it builds quietly.
So, may be Short term, we can expect chop to continue. Maybe even frustration will rise.
But long term? The ETH price is sitting on a coiled spring. Once macro conditions stabilize, all this underlying strength like network growth, tokenization dominance, supply shifts doesn’t just disappear. It erupts.
And when it does, the current ETH price levels might look like a bargain in hindsight.
The crypto market has been facing significant upward pressure ever since Trump announced the re-escalation of the war with Iran. Many cryptos, including Bitcoin, XRP, Solana, etc., have broken down their respective support ranges, while some, like Ethereum, display some strength. Hyperliquid price has been plunging for the past few days, and the latest pullback has dragged the levels below the pivotal support range.
On the other hand, it is also sending mixed signals and here’s where the setup appears to be dangerous. The current trade setup does not appear to be a breakout setup but a conflict between trend and momentum. And in such phases, the market usually undertakes a sharper price action.
Hyperliquid Trend Structure: Bullish, But Slowing
HYPE has been in a steady uptrend since February, forming a rising channel with consistently higher lows as buyers remained largely active. However, the rejection near $43 resistance shows that while buyers can push the price higher, they lack the strength to sustain the momentum. Currently, the price has dropped back into the support range around $35-$36, and a breakdown below this range could attract a deeper correction.
The emergence of a potential golden cross suggests that the broader trend is turning bullish. Typically, this attracts trend-following capital and supports further upside. Besides, the RSI is declining, even as price attempts to hold above key levels, indicating a drop in buying pressure. This divergence may create a key conflict, which may result in a correction or consolidation before the next expansion phase.
If HYPE price holds above $34 and momentum stablises and RSI begins to rise, it may reclaim $38 to $40, which may even extend to $43 to $45. Besides, a failure may result in a pullback close to $30, invalidating the possibility of recovery in the short-term.
What’s Next for the HYPE Price Rally?
Currently, the HYPE price is not breaking out but is in a transitional phase where buyers are still present, keeping the trend intact. However, the conviction is fading as the momentum is weak, which may also invalidate the upcoming golden cross as well. Therefore, defending the current support range is extremely important for the Hyperliquid price, which may pave the way for a healthy recovery beyond $40.
SUI shows strong bullish momentum in early 2026, backed by rising TVL, ecosystem growth, and renewed investor confidence.
If key resistance breaks, SUI could target $3–$5 in 2026, with long-term potential extending toward $15–$18 by 2030.
As a next-generation Layer 1 blockchain, Sui is redefining the architecture of the decentralized web by introducing an object-centric model where assets, data, and permissions are natively ownable and programmable. Built to handle the demands of modern commerce, the Sui Stack provides a modular toolkit that allows developers to scale on resilient infrastructure while delivering high-performance experiences without typical blockchain trade-offs.
From powering institutional capital markets and DeFi to even revolutionizing the gaming sector, the network has already secured a significant foothold with a Total Value Locked (TVL) of $583 million, per the official website.
By prioritizing verifiable security and composable scaling, Sui ensures that value created within its ecosystem is shared rather than extracted. In this comprehensive SUI price prediction 2026–2030, we analyze how this business-ready infrastructure and growing industry adoption will impact SUI’s token and market valuation in the years to come.
As we look back to early 2026, the SUI price initially encountered the $2.00 level, only to be met with substantial selling pressure, which led to a dip to $0.80 by February. Since then, the price has been steadily consolidating just beneath the important $1.00 mark.
As March has closed, SUI/USD finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with the challenge of breaking through the $1 resistance level. If this struggle continues, we may witness a potential retreat to lower levels. It is particularly significant to note that if the essential $0.80 support level falters, we could see prices testing the $0.50 to $0.60 range in April.
On a more optimistic note, should the SUI price succeed in surpassing $1.05, it might indicate a local bottom and ignite a rally towards $1.60, with the exciting possibility of reattempting the $2.00 threshold by the end of the month.
Sui (SUI) Crypto Price Prediction 2026
The weekly price action for SUI/USD reveals a market in a major corrective phase after its late-2024 peak, currently in Q1 2026, searching for a definitive long-term bottom.
What we witnessed is that after the 2024’s explosive rally that topped out near $5.36, the asset entered a persistent downtrend, characterized by a series of “lower highs” capped by a prominent descending resistance line. This primary trendline has remained unbroken throughout 2025, consistently forcing the price toward deeper support levels as the initial hype cycle cooled.
Currently, the SUI price is testing $0.80 support after losing $1.05 support in Q1 2026. The odds suggest a chance of reaching the $0.50 support zone if it fails to hold $0.80, because the $0.50 area is of immense technical importance, as it represents the original “genesis” accumulation level from early 2024.
The price has dipped a lot, and now it’s showing signs of stabilization as sellers are about to reach exhaustion once it hits $0.50. Real consolidation could begin, and a true reversal to fruit has better odds. This area serves as the “line in the sand” for bulls; maintaining this floor is essential to prevent a complete technical breakdown and to begin building a new base for the next market cycle.
Looking ahead, the chart identifies several key resistance levels that SUI must reclaim to shift its bearish structure. The immediate hurdle lies at the $1.05, $1.60, and $2.00 horizontal zones. A successful bounce from the current demand floor would likely target these levels first.
However, a true trend reversal will only be confirmed if SUI breaks and closes above the long-term descending trendline, currently near $3.50. Until that breakout occurs, the asset remains in a “buy the dip” accumulation phase for long-term investors.
SUI Crypto Price Prediction 2026 – 2030
Year
Potential Low ($)
Potential Average ($)
Potential High ($)
2027
$4
$6
$8
2028
$8
$10
$12
2029
$10
$13
$16
2030
$12
$15
$18
Sui (SUI) Price Prediction 2027
Subsequently, the SUI price range can be between $4 to $8 during the year 2027.
SUI Prediction 2028
Beyond the previous ATH,SUI bullish momentum may gain pace and will see another bullish spark in 2028. Specifically, as per our SUI Price Prediction, the potential SUI price range in 2028 is $8 to $12.
SUI Price Forecast 2029
Thereafter, the SUI price for the year 2029 could range between $10 and $16
Sui (SUI) Price Prediction 2030
Finally, in 2030, the price of SUI is predicted to maintain a steady and positive. It can trade between $12 and $18.
SUI Price Prediction 2031, 2032, 2033, 2040, 2050
Based on the historic market sentiments and trend analysis of the largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, here are the possible SUI price targets for the longer time frames.
Year
Potential Low ($)
Potential Average ($)
Potential High ($)
2031
$8
$10
$15
2032
$10
$13
$18
2033
$12
$15
$22
2040
$20
$32
$40
2050
$30
$70
$150+
Never Miss a Beat in the Crypto World!
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FAQs
What is the Sui Crypto (SUI) price prediction for 2026?
SUI could trade between $0.50 and $5 in 2026. If it breaks key resistance near $3.50, momentum may push the token toward the $3–$5 range.
How high can Sui Crypto go by 2030?
If adoption continues and the ecosystem expands, SUI could reach $12–$18 by 2030, driven by DeFi growth and network demand.
What is the Sui price prediction for 2040?
Long-term projections suggest SUI may trade between $20 and $40 by 2040, assuming strong blockchain adoption and sustained ecosystem growth.
What is the Sui Coin price prediction for 2050?
By 2050, SUI could potentially reach $30–$150+ if the network becomes widely used across finance, gaming, and Web3 infrastructure.
Where to buy Sui Crypto (SUI)?
You can buy SUI on major crypto exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, KuCoin, and OKX. Simply create an account, deposit funds, and trade for SUI.
Can SUI reach its all-time high again?
Yes, if SUI breaks above key resistance near $3 and market conditions stay favorable, a retest of its $5.35 ATH is possible.
Is SUI a good long-term investment?
SUI shows long-term potential due to its scalable Layer-1 design, growing DeFi adoption, and increasing developer and institutional interest.
What factors are driving SUI’s price growth?
Key drivers include rising TVL above $1B, strong on-chain activity, ecosystem expansion, and SUI’s reputation as a fast, scalable network.
StakeStone (STO) has emerged as one of the market’s top performers, surging over 200% in just 24 hours and capturing significant market attention. The rally comes amid a sharp spike in trading volume, aggressive whale activity, and growing speculation around a potential StakeStone airdrop.
With momentum accelerating rapidly, the key question now is whether the STO price rally is sustainable, or nearing exhaustion.
Whale Activity and Exchange Flows Drive STO Price Rally
On-chain data highlights a surge in large wallet activity, with newly created addresses accumulating millions worth of STO within hours.
A newly created wallet, "0x2c2c," withdrew 11.76M $STO ($2.94M) from #Binance. It’s now valued at $6.99M, having a floating profit of $4.05M in under 24 hours.
Notably, one wallet withdrew over 11.7 million STO from Binance, signaling strong conviction positioning.
At the same time, another major wallet deposited nearly 28 million STO to exchanges, representing a significant portion of circulating supply. This dual dynamic, accumulation alongside potential distribution, suggests heightened volatility ahead. Such movements typically indicate that large players are actively shaping short-term price direction, rather than passive market participation.
Derivatives Data Signals Aggressive Speculation
Market activity has expanded beyond spot trading, with derivatives metrics showing a sharp increase in participation. Trading volume has surged over 600%, while open interest has climbed significantly, reflecting a rapid buildup of leveraged positions.
This type of expansion often accompanies early-stage momentum rallies but also increases the risk of sharp reversals. Rising leverage conditions can amplify both upside continuation and downside liquidations. As a result, STO’s current structure is being driven not only by organic demand but also by speculative positioning.
Airdrop Narrative Adds Fuel to Rally
Adding to the bullish momentum is growing speculation around a potential StakeStone airdrop. Market participants are increasingly positioning early in anticipation of ecosystem incentives, a pattern commonly seen across emerging DeFi tokens.
Airdrop-driven narratives often create short-term demand spikes, as users rush to accumulate tokens in hopes of future rewards. However, such narratives can also lead to rapid sentiment shifts once expectations are priced in. For now, the airdrop theme is acting as a key catalyst behind STO’s visibility and demand surge.
STO Price Analysis: Parabolic Move Raises Volatility Risk
STO price has entered a parabolic expansion phase, rallying from near $0.11 to above $0.80 within a very short time frame. While this move reflects strong momentum, such vertical rallies typically lack strong support bases, making them vulnerable to sharp pullbacks.
In the near term, the $0.90–$1.00 zone stands as a key psychological resistance. A breakout above this level could extend the rally further, driven by continued speculative demand. On the downside, initial support is likely to form around $0.60, followed by a deeper support zone near $0.40 if selling pressure accelerates. The current structure suggests that while upside remains open, risk-reward is becoming increasingly asymmetric at higher levels.
STO Price Prediction: What Comes Next?
StakeStone’s trajectory now depends on whether demand can sustain the current pace of inflows. Continued whale accumulation and strong derivatives participation could push STO toward the $1 mark in the near term. However, if large holders begin distributing or leverage unwinds, a sharp correction toward lower support levels cannot be ruled out.
With both bullish catalysts and structural risks in play, STO remains a high-momentum, high-volatility asset in the current market cycle. While upside toward $1 remains possible, the absence of strong support zones increases correction risk. The next move will depend on whether buyers can sustain momentum, or if early participants begin to take profits.
The live price of the Monero crypto is $ 329.55173344.
Monero price made a strong move before but on a decline to a possible $130 low by 2026-end.
The XMR price, with a potential surge, could hit $5,828.30 by 2030
Envision the capability to conduct online payments without a digital footprint; that’s payment privacy. Numerous cryptocurrency assets possess a distinct selling proposition (USP); some safeguard transaction details concerning the parties or institutions involved, but some do not.
But this transparency enables larger investors and institutional capital to be easily traced. While unshielded transactions are valued by researchers for the accessible information they provide regarding investments, individuals whose data is subject to scrutiny often experience frustration, as they perceive a loss of privacy over their own financial assets.
This is where Monero (XMR) comes in. Since its inception in 2014, Monero has offered robust privacy features. It has become the top choice for users seeking to maintain a high standard of anonymity in blockchain transactions. The impact of Monero’s privacy capabilities was particularly evident in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Despite the government’s tightening of the rules around digital assets, Monero has ranked 21st globally. Driven by rising interest, XMR stands out as a privacy-focused coin. So, what’s coming next for Monero in 2026 and the years to come? In this Monero price prediction 2026-2030 article, we look at the potential price targets.
The daily price chart for Monero (XMR) reveals a captivating market trend marked by noteworthy fluctuations. After facing challenges in maintaining stability above $422 in January, XMR experienced a decline, falling below $370 in February. However, mid-March brought significant resistance near the 200-day EMA and the $370 threshold.
As we transition from March into April now, the XMR/USD pair has begun to form a short-term support trendline, which is an encouraging development. Should this support be breached, we might witness a rapid decline, potentially dropping below $300 this month. On a brighter note, if this support remains robust, we have an exciting opportunity for XMR to retest the $422 level by the end of April.
Recent News and Opinions
Per the late February 2026 post from ProbeLab, they show that findings confirm the Monero network’s resilience against surveillance. Analysis reveals that 46% of community nodes have proactively adopted a “ban list,” effectively neutralizing nearly all identified spy nodes. This grassroots defense highlights a robust, decentralized commitment to privacy, strengthening the network’s topology against potential deanonymization attempts.
Monero (XMR) Price Prediction 2026
The price action of Monero (XMR) showed remarkable bullish momentum, particularly in Q4 2025, driven by a broader trend in privacy coins, which resulted in a significant price surge during that period.
In 2026, Monero followed the same privacy narrative, continuing the rally and pushing the price to new all-time highs (ATH) of $800. However, this increase was short-lived, as the price dropped to around $285 in February, losing more than 60% from its peak. Additionally, the mid-trendline of an ascending channel was breached, confirming a bearish dominance in the market at that time.
But, the remaining days of Q1 2026 showed some improvements that pushed it back above mid-trendline support, and now we see consolidation going on.
Now, if demand for XMR price increases, it could potentially revisit the $422 mark. It’s important to note that a recovery to this level might not inspire much excitement, as it could form a significant trap for investors. To regain a bullish setup, a weekly close above $422 would be crucial for attracting investor interest.
Conversely, if the price fails to break through $422 or even collapses below mid-trendline support again, then the first half of 2026 could see a drop towards $200 area, which could accelerate to $130 by year’s end to touch the lower border of the ascending channels as a support, like in the past.
Furthermore, it’s essential to recognize that the price has reached the upper boundary of its ascending parallel channel. As with previous patterns, a correction appears to be imminent. When it pierced the upper boundary, it had two choices: break away from the earlier pattern and establish new price action, but it briefly exceeded the channel before falling back within it, echoing historical trends. Ultimately, it returned to the pattern, continuing its legacy from the past.
Monero Crypto Price Prediction 2026 – 2030
Year
Potential Low ($)
Potential Average ($)
Potential High ($)
2027
$910.00
$1000.00
$1200.00
2028
$863.46
$1,726.90
$2,590.35
2029
$1,295.19
$2,590.35
$3,885.53
2030
$1,942.76
$3,885.53
$5,828.30
Monero Price Forecast 2027
Looking forward to 2027, XMR’s price is expected to reach a low of $910, with a high of $1,200 and an average forecast price of $1,000.
XMR Price Prediction 2028
In 2028, the price of a single Monero is anticipated to reach a minimum of $863.46, with a maximum of $2,590.35 and an average price of $1,726.90.
Monero Price Prediction 2029
By 2029, XMR’s price is predicted to reach a minimum of $1,295.19, with the potential to hit a maximum of $3,885.53 and an average of $2,590.35.
Monero (XMR) Price Prediction 2030
In 2030, Monero is predicted to touch its lowest price at $1,942.76, hitting a high of $5,828.30 and an average price of $3,885.53.
The long-term projection assumes Monero sustains relevance in enterprise blockchain use cases, with growth moderating over time as the asset matures.
Year
Potential Low ($)
Potential Average ($)
Potential High ($)
2031
3800
5200
6800
2032
5500
7500
9500
2033
7700
10000
11500
2040
15000
22000
42000
2050
30000
40000
60000
Monero (XMR) Price Prediction: Market Analysis?
Year
2026
2027
2030
Changelly
$720
$900
$1900
CoinCodex
$680
$880
$1800
WalletInvestor
$740
$870
$2000
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FAQs
What is Monero (XMR) price prediction for 2026?
Monero could revisit the $422 level if buying demand strengthens. However, if bearish pressure continues, the price may fall toward $200 or even $130 during 2026.
How much will Monero be worth in 2030?
Projections indicate Monero could trade between about $1,942 and $5,828 by 2030, with an estimated average price around $3,885 if adoption continues growing.
How high can Monero price go by 2040?
Long-term projections vary widely, but some estimates place Monero between $2,000 and $5,000 by 2040, depending on adoption and regulation.
What factors influence the price of Monero?
Monero’s price is driven by privacy demand, regulatory developments, network adoption, market sentiment, and overall crypto market trends.
Will Monero be the next Bitcoin?
Monero serves a different role than Bitcoin. Bitcoin focuses on transparency, while Monero prioritizes privacy, making it a niche but valuable crypto asset.
The asset could reach a high of $6100 by the end of 2026.
The price of Ethereum could reach a high of $15,575 by 2030.
Since its launch in 2015, Ethereum has evolved from a pioneering smart-contract platform into the primary settlement layer for the global digital economy. What began as a space for experimental decentralized applications (dApps) has now transformed into a robust ecosystem attracting significant institutional interest. This shift is largely driven by Ethereum’s “Business Ready” infrastructure, which is designed to support high-assurance financial applications and large-scale tokenization initiatives.
The successful rollout of the Pectra and Fusaka upgrades has significantly improved Ethereum’s scalability and fee efficiency. These upgrades addressed long-standing network bottlenecks, making the platform more practical and cost-effective for enterprise adoption and high-volume blockchain activity.
As the ecosystem progresses through 2026, the narrative surrounding Ethereum has shifted from simple utility to institutional-grade resilience and infrastructure. With a well-defined roadmap emphasizing censorship resistance, modular scalability, and long-term sustainability, Ethereum is increasingly positioned to support the next generation of decentralized finance (DeFi) and global capital markets.
In this Ethereum price prediction for 2026–2030, we examine whether these structural improvements, combined with evolving macroeconomic conditions, could push ETH toward new valuation milestones over the coming years.
In the first quarter of the year, the Ethereum price encountered some significant challenges, experiencing a decline from the support level of $2800 to a low of $1750 in early February. Fortunately, February brought stabilization, and March witnessed a promising rise to $2370. Although ETH dipped below $2000 by late March, this suggests that demand dynamics are evolving.
Looking ahead, the ETH price action indicates that there is a building demand, positioning Q2 as an exciting opportunity for growth. While the anticipated momentum was not fully realized in Q1, consolidation presents a favorable outlook. April could be a pivotal month, potentially paving the way for a retest of $2878 or continued consolidation in the market.
Ethereum Price Prediction 2026
The Ethereum price currently exhibits a compelling long-term technical structure on the monthly timeframe, anchored by a multi-year 45-degree ascending trendline that has guided price action since 2020.
Historically, this trendline has served as a critical pivot point, with the market oscillating between periods of aggressive upward expansion above the line and phases of strategic consolidation below it.
Notably, when ETH trades beneath this trendline, it often forms a secondary short-term ascending channel lasting a few months. These channels act as accumulation zones, where price fluctuates until sufficient demand builds, eventually leading to a high-momentum breakout once bullish conditions are met.
In the current 2026 market environment, Ethereum appears to be following a familiar structural pattern, albeit with increased volatility and a broader trading range. The ongoing ascending channel, which began in 2025, aligns with the multi-year trendline but is significantly wider compared to previous cycles. While the price action indicates recovery potential, the market has not yet reached the specific demand threshold required to trigger a definitive vertical surge.
Overall, Ethereum’s multi-year trendline combined with the current ascending channel suggests a measured accumulation phase, setting the stage for a potential strong bullish breakout in the months ahead.
From a volume perspective, the anchored volume profile suggests that Ethereum (ETH) is finding significant support around key high-volume zones. These areas, particularly the ranges between $1,700–$1,900 and $1,200–$1,400, have historically attracted institutional interest, creating a solid floor that bears are unlikely to easily break.
If buyer demand strengthens at these levels, ETH could follow a recovery trajectory with an initial target near $2,878. A successful breach of this level would then pave the way for a retest of the $4,076 psychological resistance, signaling renewed bullish momentum.
However, a cautious approach remains warranted. If the market fails to generate sufficient demand at these support zones, the current consolidation phase below the multi-year trendline is likely to continue. In this bearish scenario, ETH would remain trading within its 2025 ascending channel, extending the accumulation period before a decisive trend emerges.
The interplay between this short-term ascending channel and the long-term trendline will ultimately determine whether Ethereum’s next move is a bullish continuation or a prolonged sideways consolidation.
ETH On-Chain Analysis
Ethereum’s price is currently stabilizing and 30-days On-chain data shows major whale transaction counts beyond $1 million has been rising in past 30-days. This is signaling “smart money” accumulation near the $2,000 support.
Moreover, the fundamentals of the network are growing. Since January 2025, the value of tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) on the blockchain has reached $20.4 billion. The Ethereum ecosystem now has 146 active Layer 2 networks, with a total value of $38.2 billion locked in these networks. Together, Ethereum’s mainnet and Layer 2 networks show that stablecoins account for over 60% of the market share, totaling about $179 billion.
This indicates a significant amount of liquidity in the ecosystem. Additionally, the number of ETH tokens on centralized exchanges is falling, meaning fewer ETH tokens are less available on CEX platforms meaning bullish pressure increasing.
Ethereum Price Prediction 2027-2030
Year
Potential Low ($)
Potential Average ($)
Potential High ($)
2027
7,071.08
14,142.16
21,213.24
2028
10,606.62
21,213.24
31,819.86
2029
15,909.93
31,819.86
47,729.79
2030
23,864.90
47,729.79
71,594.69
Ethereum (ETH) Price Prediction 2027
The Ethereum 2027 forecast expects the ETH coin price to make a new all-time high at $21,213.24. However, a correction based on market shortcomings may drive the ETH crypto to $7,071.08, with an average of $14,142.16.
ETH Price Prediction 2028
In 2028, the chances of Ethereum dominating the crypto market rise as the ETH price potentially makes a new high at $31,819.86. On the other hand, the altcoin might fall to $10,606.62, making an average of $21,213.24.
Ethereum Price Forecast 2029
Approaching its all-time high of $47,729.79 in 2029, the Ethereum price is expected to surpass the psychological barrier of $40,000. In case of a correction, $ETH may reach a low of $15,909.93, with an average price of $31,819.86.
Ethereum Price Prediction 2030
As per our Ethereum Price Prediction 2030, the ETH crypto price is projected to reach a new all-time high of $71,594.69 in 2030, with a potential low of $23,864.90 and an average price of $47,729.79.
Ethereum (ETH) Price Prediction: Market Analysis?
Year
2026
2027
2030
Changelly
$5,800
$7,500
$25,000
CoinCodex
$6,300
$7,850
$28,200
WalletInvestor
$5,940
$7,450
$21,500
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FAQs
What is the Ethereum price prediction for 2026?
Ethereum could reach $6,200 in 2026 if accumulation strengthens and demand at key support levels increases.
What will be the price of Ethereum in 2027?
ETH may hit around $21,200 in 2027, with potential lows near $7,071 depending on market conditions.
How much will 1 Ethereum be worth in 2030?
By 2030, 1 ETH could reach a new all-time high of $71,500 under strong adoption and network growth.
Could Ethereum reach $100,000 by 2040?
If adoption and blockchain integration continue rising, Ethereum could theoretically approach $100,000 by 2040.
How high will Ethereum go in 2050?
Long‑term, Ethereum could exceed $150,000–$200,000 by 2050 with widespread global adoption, DeFi and tokenization.
Is Ethereum a good investment?
Ethereum remains a strong long-term investment due to growing DeFi use, Layer 2 adoption, and rising institutional interest.
As Bitcoin and Ethereum dominate the headlines again, investors are hunting for smarter ways to participate without buying fractional shares of expensive assets. The narrative has shifted from mere price speculation to real infrastructure utility. Bitcoin Everlight is capturing this momentum by introducing a $100 entry point that has caught the attention of both retail and seasoned traders.
While the major coins provide the backdrop, this platform is building the engine for long-term rewards. By lowering the financial barrier, BTCL is ensuring that the next wave of crypto growth is not just for those with deep pockets, but for anyone looking to secure their share of the Bitcoin network’s future earnings through an innovative routing system. This is a unique window to gain exposure to native BTC earnings with minimal friction.
Setting the Stage for the Bitcoin Everlight Ecosystem
Bitcoin Everlight, known by its ticker BTCL, acts as a high-efficiency transaction and routing layer designed to scale the world’s most secure blockchain. Its mission is to make earning Bitcoin accessible to everyone through a decentralized network of nodes and shards. Instead of the high costs associated with mining, BTCL uses a participation model that turns simple token holdings into a source of native BTC rewards.
This ecosystem is built for transparency and longevity, offering a streamlined path for participants to benefit from actual network traffic and utility. By bridging the gap between holding and earning, the platform creates a sustainable economic model for the modern era.
Strategic Entry During the Early Growth Phase
The current funding round for Bitcoin Everlight is moving through Phase 3, where tokens are available at just $0.0012. This is a limited window, as the price will automatically increase to $0.0014 in the upcoming phase. With more than $2M raised so far, the project is rapidly hitting its technical and financial goals.
The projected listing price is set at $0.03110.
Total token supply is fixed to prevent inflationary pressure.
Early participants secure the lowest possible cost basis before the official exchange debut.
High demand during this phase shows strong market confidence in the routing layer technology.
Democratizing Native Bitcoin Yields
The revolutionary Shard system has recently introduced the Jade Shard, a perfect entry for those starting with just $100. This tier provides up to 6% APY in BTCL during the presale, which transitions directly into 6% real BTC rewards upon mainnet launch. Participants retain full control over their tokens and can liquidate at launch if they desire.
Azure Shard: $500 contribution with 12% APY.
Violet Shard: $1,500 contribution with 20% APY.
Radiant Shard: $3,000 contribution for 28%+ APY during presale.
The beauty of this system is that shards automatically upgrade as your balance grows. However, if your holdings fall below the tier threshold, the shard will pause until the balance is restored. This is a massive improvement over traditional mining because there are no electricity bills or loud ASICs involved. Crypto Sister recently broke down how this accessibility changes the game for smaller investors. Activation happens in real time once your total contribution across supported coins like BTC or SOL hits the required threshold.
Social Momentum and Global User Growth
The social foundation of Bitcoin Everlight is one of the most vibrant in the current market. The project’s official X profile is a hub for daily updates and technical insights, while the Telegram community serves as a place for shard holders to share reward screenshots.
Leaderboards on the dashboard foster healthy competition among users.
The live activity feed provides transparent proof of every new shard activation.
Rapidly growing numbers of active users validate the platform’s utility and ease of use.
Bull Run Angel has noted that the high level of community engagement is a strong indicator of long-term project viability. Seeing thousands of users discuss their passive BTC earnings creates a level of transparency that is rare in the early stages of a project.
A Bedrock of Institutional Grade Protection
Security is the primary focus of the BTCL infrastructure. The team has prioritized safety by completing thorough audits through Spywolf and Solidproof before inviting the public to join. This ensures the smart contracts are resilient and protected against vulnerabilities.
Full identity checks (KYC) for the team were performed by Spywolf and Vital Block.
The non-custodial design allows users to manage their own keys and withdraw their BTCL whenever they wish.
Data is anchored back to the Bitcoin blockchain via optional checkpointing for added trust.
Real identities are on record with regulated third party providers to ensure accountability.
Summary and Next Steps
Bitcoin Everlight is reshaping the passive income landscape by making Bitcoin rewards affordable and technically simple. By moving away from complex mining and toward a tiered shard system, the project offers a sustainable way to build a digital asset portfolio. Whether you start with the $100 Jade tier or aim for the Radiant level, the path to earning real BTC has never been more direct. Secure your tokens now while the presale pricing is still in Phase 3 and start building your future today.
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