Class 6A state tournament

(UHSAA bracket)

First Round (Feb. 18)

• No. 17 Cedar Valley 50, No. 16 Weber 47

Second Round (Feb. 20)

• No. 13 Lehi 51, No. 4 Layton 47
• No. 12 Farmington 53, No. 5 Davis 50
• No. 1 Westlake 78, No. 17 Cedar Valley 48
• No. 8 Lone Peak 66, No. 9 Corner Canyon 51
• No. 2 American Fork 67, No. 15 Copper Hills 35
• No. 10 Herriman 68, No. 7 Skyridge 51
• No. 3 Bingham 74, No. 14 Riverton 52
• No. 6 Mountain Ridge 63, No. 11 Syracuse 52

Quarterfinals (Feb. 25)

At University of Utah

• No. 13 Lehi vs. No. 12 Farmington, 9:30 a.m.
• No. 8 Lone Peak vs. No. 1 Westlake, 11:10 a.m.
• No. 10 Herriman vs. No. 2 American Fork, 12:50 p.m.
• No. 6 Mountain Ridge vs. No. 3 Bingham, 2:30 p.m.

Class 5A state tournament

(UHSAA bracket)

First Round (Feb. 18)

• No. 13 Salem Hills 67, No. 20 Box Elder 58
• No. 12 Pleasant Grove 58, No. 21 Fremont 40
• No. 17 Alta 60, No. 16 Hillcrest 48
• No. 9 Payson 79, No. 24 West Jordan 41
• No. 18 West 74, No. 15 Maple Mountain 62
• No. 10 Roy 69, No. 23 Clearfield 59
• No. 19 Viewmont 69, No. 14 West Field 61
• No. 11 Woods Cross 67, No. 22 Northridge 49

Second Round (Feb. 20)

• No. 4 Wasatch 47, No. 13 Salem Hills 41
• No. 12 Pleasant Grove 55, No. 5 Orem 54
• No. 17 Alta 65, No. 1 Timpview 55
• No. 8 Bountiful 65, No. 9 Payson 50
• No. 2 Olympus 68, No. 13 West 53
• No. 7 Springville 82, No. 10 Roy 63
• No. 3 Highland 70, No. 19 Viewmont 60
• No. 11 Woods Cross 72, No. 6 Cyprus 59

Quarterfinals (Feb. 23)

• No. 12 Pleasant Grove 65,. No. 4 Wasatch 58
• No. 8 Bountiful 58, No. 17 Alta 44
• No. 2 Olympus 67, No. 7 Springville 57
• No. 3 Highland 62, No. 11 Woods Cross 48

Semifinals (Feb. 26)

At University of Utah

• No. 12 Pleasant Grove vs. No. 8 Bountiful, 4 p.m.
• No. 3 Highalnd vs. No. 2 Olympus, 5:40 p.m.

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Class 4A state tournament

(UHSAA bracket)

First Round (Feb. 10)

• No. 13 Mountain View 75, No. 20 Stansbury 55
• No. 12 Ridgeline 78, No. 21 Bear River 62
• No. 17 Judge Memorial 67, No. 16 Desert Hills 48
• No. 9 Snow Canyon 69, No. 24 Cedar 64
• No. 15 Green Canyon 78, No. 18 Mountain Crest 63
• No. 10 Timpanogos 84, No. 23 Summit Academy 40
• No. 14 Murray 52, No. 19 Uintah 46
• No. 11 East 73, No. 22 Jordan 52

Second Round (Feb. 13)

• No. 13 Mountain View 76, No. 4 Cottonwood 72
• No. 5 Dixie 68, No. 12 Ridgeline 58
• No. 1 Provo 67, No. 17 Judge Memorial 55
• No. 8 Sky View 66, No. 9 Snow Canyon 33
• No. 2 Pine View 73, No. 15 Green Canyon 65
• No. 10 Timpanogos 56, No. 7 Juan Diego 43
• No. 3 Crimson Cliffs 59, No. 14 Murray 57
• No. 6 Hurricane 63, No. 11 East 58

Quarterfinals (Feb. 18)

At Weber State

• No. 5 Dixie 51, No. 13 Mountain View 49
• No. 1 Provo 71, No. 8 Sky View 66
• No. 10 Timpanogos 49, No. 2 Pine View 42
• No. 6 Hurricane 60, No. 3 Crimson Cliffs 49

Semifinals (Feb. 20)

• No. 1 Provo 50, No. 5 Dixie 46
• No. 6 Hurricane 65, No. 10 Timpanogos 60

Championship (Feb. 21)

At Weber State

• No. 6 Hurricane vs. No. 1 Provo, 3:30 p.m.

Class 3A state tournament

(UHSAA bracket)

Second Round (Feb. 13)

• No. 4 Emery 60, No. 13 Logan 55
• No. 12 Grantsville 60, No. 5 Juab 55
• No. 1 Morgan 89, No. 16 Ben Lomond 46
• No. 8 Canyon View 71, No. 9 Union 62
• No. 2 Richfield 75, No. 15 Providence Hall 28
• No. 7 Ogden 61, No. 10 Manti 45
• No. 3 American Heritage 79, No. 14 North Sanpete 43
• No. 6 Delta 57, No. 11 Carbon 53

Quarterfinals (Feb. 19)

• No. 12 Grantsville 79,. No. 5 Emery 75
• No. 1 Morgan 67, No. 8 Canyon View 43
• No. 2 Richfield 54, No. 7 Ogden 43
• No. 3 American Heritage 57, No. 6 Delta 37

Semifinals (Feb. 20)

At SUU

• No. 12 Grantsville vs. No. 1 Morgan, 7:30 p.m.
• No. 3 American Heritage vs. No. 2 Richfield, 9:10 p.m.

Class 2A state tournament

(UHSAA bracket)

First Round (Feb. 10)

• No. 13 Enterprise 61, No. 20 Rockwell 47
• No. 12 Millard 75, No. 21 Maeser Prep 69
• No. 16 Waterford 62, No. 17 UMA Camp Williams 56
• No. 9 San Juan 83, No. 24 Vanguard 40
• No. 15 Duchesne 45, No. 18 North Sevier 42
• No. 10 Parowan 58, No. 23 Grand 44
• No. 14 Beaver 53, No. 19 Merit Academy 38
• No. 11 Draper APA 67, No. 22 ICS 50

Second Round (Feb. 13)

• No. 4 South Sevier 48, No. 13 Enterprise 34
• No. 5 Rowland Hall 75, No. 12 Millard 58
• No. 1 Kanab 71, No. 16 Waterford 45
• No. 9 San Juan 77, No. 8 APA West Valley 66
• No. 2 North Summit 66, No. 15 Duchesne 48
• No. 7 Gunnison Valley 59, No. 10 Parowan 56
• No. 3 ALA 48, No. 14 Beaver 45
• No. 6 South Summit 70, No. 11 Draper 49

Quarterfinals (Feb. 23)

• No. 4 South Sevier 65, No. 5 Rowland Hall 48
• No. 1 Kanab 53, No. 9 San Juan 50
• No. 7 Gunnison Valley 65, No. 2 North Summit 62
• No. 6 South Summit 54, No. 3 ALA 51

Semifinals (Feb. 24)

At UVU

• No. 4 South Sevier vs. No. 1 Kanab, 7:30 p.m.
• No. 7 Gunnison Valley vs. No. 6 South Summit 9:10 p.m.

Class 1A state tournament

(UHSAA bracket)

First Round (Feb. 17)

• No. 13 Whitehorse 76, No. 20 Mount Vernon 56
• No. 12 Altamont 65, No. 21 Telos 43
• No. 17 St. Joseph 50, No. 16 Escalante 42
• No. 18 Milford 60, No. 15 Water Canyon 55
• No. 10 Monticello 66, No. 23 Dugway 19
• No. 19 Wendover 66, No. 14 Pinnacle 59
• No. 11 Tintic 72, No. 22 Monument Valley 26

Second round (Feb. 20)

• No. 13 Whitehorse at No. 4 Manila, Sat., 1 p.m.
• No. 5 Panguitch 52, No. 12 Altamont 33
• No. 1 Rich 74, No. 17 St. Joseph 50
• No. 8 Valley 52, No. 9 Tabiona 42
• No. 2 Wayne 61, No. 18 Milford 42
• No. 7 Green River 58, No. 10 Monticello 40
• No. 3 Piute 95, No. 19 Wendover 31
• No. 6 Bryce Valley 54, No. 11 Tintic 49

Quarterfinals (Feb. 26)

At SLCC

• No. 5 Panguitch vs. Whitehorse/Manila, 10 a.m.
• No. 8 Valley vs. No. 1 Rich, 11:30 a.m.
• No. 7 Green River vs. No. 2 Wayne, 1 p.m.
• No. 6 Bryce Valley vs. No. 3 Piute, 2:30 p.m.

A new documentary exploring Western Pennsylvania’s long history with football was screened on Monday.

“The Football Town” is a 52-minute documentary that highlights the importance of the Pittsburgh area’s football legacy ahead of the NFL Draft.

“We believe that football is just a pure part of the culture of Western Pennsylvania. We’re excited to use the NFL Draft to showcase that importance in our culture, the fabric of who we are, and we’re excited for this to be the first real stepping out moment for the NFL Draft,” writer Jim Britt said.

The documentary is narrated by Pittsburgh native Pat McAfee and features Steelers legends like Bill Cowher, Jerome Bettis, Joey Porter Sr. and James Harrison, among others.

It covers the high school football scene too, exploring team culture at schools like Aliquippa, Homewood, Peters Township and Steel Valley.

The documentary premieres at the Kamin Science Center on Saturday and will continue to air there though the NFL Draft.

Click here for access to tickets.

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MLB analyst makes the case for Jo Adell to repeat as Angels' power king originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

For many seasons, the Los Angeles Angels moved as Mike Trout did. He was the sole face of the club's offense after Shohei Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and he has had a difficult time staying healthy. 

Trout missed a month of the season in 2025 after suffering a bone bruise in his left knee, the same knee he had surgery on in 2024. After coming back, he was reduced to being used as the primary DH for the club. 

And while Trout was trying his best to give the Angels all he had, someone else stepped up to be the face of the offense, and that would be outfielder Jo Adell. 

MORE: Angels players 'took notice' of owner Arte Moreno's recent comments

MLB analyst makes the case for Jo Adell to repeat as Angels' power king

Mike Trout could only muster up 26 home runs last year, tying him for third place alongside Zach Neto. Taylor Ward would go on to have a great season, hitting 36 home runs, but it was not enough to be the home run leader for the Halos. 

That prize would go to Adell, who hit a career-high 37 home runs last season over the course of 152 games. 

While he may take a step back this year, Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter believes he can be the home run leader for the Angels once again in 2026. 

"Despite his poor batting average and middling defense, the Angels gave Jo Adell a full runway to prove himself last season. The 26-year-old responded by finishing in fourth on the AL leaderboard with a career-high 37 home runs, and while a potential Mike Trout resurgence looms, Adell now stands as a top-tier power threat."

Now, if the Angels can get a healthy and resurging year from Trout, they could be in a much better position than they have been over the last few years.

More MLB news:

• The Pirates' home run crown could come down to three new faces
• Eugenio Suarez returns to Cincinnati to reclaim his home run throne
• Anticipating a crowded leaderboard for the Athletics' home run crown
• MLB analyst makes the case for Kerry Carpenter to carry Detroit offensively
• New walls and goals for Royals' star Bobby Witt Jr. in Kansas City

Another week, another new #1.

Michigan’s reign atop the world was short-lived, as #3 Duke was on their schedule and usurped the throne with a 68-63 win in Washington, D.C. The Blue Devils are 25-2 now with wins over Michigan, Kansas, Arkansas, Florida, and Michigan State, and losses to only Texas Tech and North Carolina. As March nears, they are only four more ACC wins from a league regular season title, but will have to best the second-place team in the league next Saturday first: the #11 Virginia Cavaliers.

Behind them, Arizona, Michigan, Iowa State, and Houston round out the top five. Arizona scored an extremely impressive road victory at Houston on Saturday, handing the Cougars a home loss and knocking them down in the Big 12 standings. Iowa State also triumphed over the Cougars, winning 70-67 on Monday. It’s a testament to how dominant Houston’s been this season that they lost twice and still stayed in the top five.

Let’s take a look at the complete AP poll of Week 17:

Notes:

• Miami-OH, since debuting in the poll in Week 12, has risen exactly one spot every week except Week 15. No matter how much everyone wants to bash them for no Quad 1’s or not scheduling in the nonconference, that undefeated record cannot be ignored.
• Florida is back in the top ten after another 2-0 week. The Gators are starting to look like their preseason #3 form again.
• Alabama has also surged in the rankings, winning six in a row including a double-overtime 117-115 win over Arkansas last Wednesday. They’ll play another streaky team, Tennessee, this weekend: the Vols have won 9 of their past 11, with the only two losses both being to Kentucky.
• Saint Louis took their second loss of the season at Rhode Island last Tuesday, but bounced back with a double-digit victory over A-10 bubble team VCU.
• Big games this week: #15 St. John’s at #6 UConn, #3 Michigan at #10 Illinois, and #11 Virginia at #1 Duke. The Johnnies are one of only three teams that have beaten UConn this season, Illinois is trying to recover from an upset loss at UCLA, and Virginia can potentially steal the ACC title from Duke with a win at Cameron.

Lions and Raiders trade prediction sends Maxx Crosby to Detroit, former first-round pick to Las Vegas originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Detroit Lions and Las Vegas Raiders are predicted to pull off a trade involving two players, including edge rusher Max Crosby.

Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine's trade proposal sends Crosby to the Lions and cornerback Terrion Arnold to the Raiders.

The hypothetical trade would also have Las Vegas acquiring the No. 17 overall pick in April's draft and a 2027 second-round pick:

"The Lions make a lot of sense as a team that has lost momentum as a contender, though. Dan Campbell's group seemed to fade from the spotlight as the year went on. Pairing Crosby with Aidan Hutchinson puts them right back in that spotlight. It would finally give Crosby a strong bookend while putting the Lions right back in the NFC conversation."

Acquiring Crosby would take the Lions' defense to the next level and catapult Dan Campbell's squad to Super Bowl contention.

A pass-rushing duo of Crosby and Aidan Hutchinson would be unstoppable and would cover up other weaknesses Detroit may have on defense.

Trading for Crosby will cost the Lions premium draft capital and a player, and Arnold could be the player Las Vegas wants. The young corner played just eight games in 2025 due to a shoulder injury, but when healthy, he's a solid starter who will only get better.

However, giving up Arnold to land a game-changer like Crosby is a no-brainer for the Lions. Crosby is one of the best players in football, tallying three double-digit sack seasons in the past four years.

Despite all the trade speculation, Crosby will likely remain in Las Vegas this season, but if he does request a trade and gets moved by the Raiders, the Lions should be a top landing spot, especially if Detroit fails to re-sign breakout edge rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad in free agency.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kliff Kingsbury will have the title of assistant head coach on Sean McVay's staff with the Los Angeles Rams.

Kingsbury's formal title was revealed Monday when the Rams finalized their coaching staff for McVay's 10th season in charge. The Rams also announced that recently retired receiver Robert Woods will be their assistant wide receivers coach.

Kingsbury, the former Arizona Cardinals head coach, is joining his friend's staff following two years as Washington's offensive coordinator. He is also bringing Brian Johnson as a senior offensive assistant after the former Philadelphia offensive coordinator worked for Kingsbury with the Commanders.

McVay promoted Nate Scheelhaase to offensive coordinator after the 35-year-old assistant drew attention from numerous teams for their head coaching vacancies this winter.

Scheelhaase replaces Mike LaFleur, the Cardinals' new head coach and the fourth straight offensive coordinator under McVay to land a top NFL job.

Quarterbacks coach Dave Ragone also received a second title as associate coordinator.

The new staff does not include Aubrey Pleasant, McVay’s assistant head coach last season. Pleasant, who acted as the Rams' head coach for multiple preseason games, was also their passing game coordinator while working with the defensive backs.

Woods will begin his coaching career with the franchise where the Los Angeles native spent the best five seasons of a 13-year NFL playing career, which ended with his retirement last week. He will assist Eric Yarber, who also received a promotion to senior offensive assistant for his 10th season on McVay's staff, and newly promoted receivers coach Rob Calabrese.

Brian Allen was Woods' teammate during the Rams' Super Bowl championship season, and the former center has joined Los Angeles' coaching staff as an assistant offensive line coach. Allen spent last season as a consultant with the Rams.

Robert Wright has joined the Rams' staff as a defensive assistant after spending the past two years as Syracuse's co-defensive coordinator.

Bubba Ventrone was announced as the Rams' new special teams coordinator, with Kyle Hoke as his assistant. Ventrone, who previously ran special teams for Indianapolis and Cleveland, is the full-time replacement for Chase Blackburn, who got fired by McVay in December after a season of special teams mistakes by Los Angeles.

___

AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL

The New England Patriots decided to shake up their running back room on Monday. Antonio Gibson, who originally joined the team on a three-year, $11.25 million free agency deal in 2024, was released after two seasons and 22 total games with the organization.

The move itself did not come as too big a surprise. Not only was Gibson little more than a rotational option in the Patriots’ backfield with an unclear outlook given that Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson reside atop the depth chart, he also is currently rehabbing a torn ACL suffered in October.

That said, let’s take a bigger-picture view at what the transaction means from a New England perspective.

Running back depth takes a hit

The Patriots entered the offseason with six true running backs under contract for the 2026 season, including Gibson as the projected RB3 behind the aforementioned Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson. With him no longer a piece of the puzzle, one layer of depth has been removed behind the top pair and is leaving the group looking as follows:

Running back (5): Rhamondre Stevenson (38), TreVeyon Henderson (32), Terrell Jennings (26), Lan Larison (34), Elijah Mitchell (45)

Fullback (1): Brock Lampe (46)

Outside of those six players, the Patriots also have two backfield players headed for free agency. Both running back Deneric Prince and fullback Jack Westover are exclusive rights free agents.

Even if Prince and Westover are retained, the Patriots are lacking established depth or long-term developmental upside behind Stevenson and Henderson. While they project as a formidable one-two punch, no Gibson as the third option means that the team might be on the lookout for another player with a similarly versatile skillset.

New primary kickoff returner in 2026

Before tearing his ACL in Week 5 against the Buffalo Bills, Gibson had not just served as the Patriots’ third running back but also their top kickoff return man. As such, he had averaged 28.5 yards on his 12 runbacks and also scored a 90-yard touchdown in Week 2 versus Miami.

Once Gibson was lost for the year, the Patriots were unable to find similar production and home-run potential. Six other players returned kickoffs for them on the year — running backs Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson, Terrell Jennings and D’Ernest Johnson as well as wide receivers Kyle Williams and Efton Chism III — but none emerged as a clear featured option.

With Gibson now officially out of the picture, the competition will start at zero again. Based on flashes, Henderson and Williams seem like the frontrunners at the moment, but there are a lot of factors plus future roster changes that are likely to change that projection.

Cap space created — for now?

One of the reasons why Gibson getting released was no surprise was his contract. Carrying a $4.14 million salary cap number, he was the 21st most-expensive player on the team right now. That in itself might not have been a release-worthy problem, but the structure of the pact invited a change: only his $1 million signing bonus proration for the 2026 season was fully-guaranteed.

That $1 million will now be added to the Patriots’ dead cap space for 2026. Meanwhile, the team created $2.14 million in net savings: his gross savings of $3.14 million minus another player with a $1 million salary cap number taking his spot on the Top 51 list of contracts to be counted against the cap once the new league year starts in mid-March.

According to salary cap expert Miguel Benzan, Gibson’s release now puts the Patriots $44.3 million under a projected league cap of $304.3 million.

Considering that Gibson was released with a failed physical designation, however, it appears that he qualifies for the NFL’s injury protection benefit. If so and he remains unsigned heading into the new season, the Patriots might be charged $2.1 million against their cap at the start of the regular season. In that case, the financial gains of releasing the 27-year-old would be minimal.

Mayo era moving further in the distance

The Patriots’ 2024 offseason was their first without Bill Belichick presiding over their football operations. So, who was the first free agent added under the new regime led by Eliot Wolf and then-head coach Jerod Mayo? That would be one Mr. Antonio Gibson.

With Gibson now gone, so is another remnant of the Mayo-era Patriots. In fact, less than 14 months after his firing, only 23 players remain with the team who played under the one-and-done coach as pointed out by Ethan. Hurwitz of Sports Illustrated.

Sign of goodwill

While his failed physical might have forced their hand a bit, the Patriots had no real reason to release Gibson now as opposed to closer to the start of free agency on March 11. However, with the entire league embarking on Indianapolis this week for the NFL Scouting Combine, getting cut now allows Gibson a head start of sorts.

Sure, teams will be cautious when it comes to a running back who tore his ACL just four months ago, but Gibson’s name is at least out there already and he can start taking visits and undergoing physical examination with other clubs right away. Other veteran running backs who might end up competing against him on the open market might not be in that same position yet.

Premier League

Everton 0 - 1 Manchester United FT

Benjamin Sesko was Manchester United's super-sub for the second match running as the Slovenian scored the only goal against Everton to send Michael Carrick's men clear in fourth spot.

Thirteen days after Sesko struck deep in injury time to rescue a point at West Ham, the £73.7m forward applied a clinical first-time finish to a 71st-minute counter-attack that he had started deep in his own half.

Sesko kept motoring after laying a pass off to Matheus Cunha. By the time Cunha had delivered a long pass to Bryan Mbeumo, the eager Sesko had outrun Everton's defence and was on hand to stroke home his eighth goal of the season.

Remarkably, only two of those goals came under former boss Ruben Amorim, with three coming in Darren Fletcher's two-game stint in interim charge and three under Carrick, who has now won five of his six games at the helm.

It was a moment of class that was a long time in coming in a match that was low on quality at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Both sides struggled against obdurate defences, having gone almost a fortnight without a game after playing early in the last round of matches, late in this one and with no FA Cup game in between after respective early exits.

In a game of few chances, James Tarkowski cleared off the line in the first half after an effort from Amad was half-saved by Jordan Pickford.

Visiting goalkeeper Senne Lammens denied teenager Harrison Armstrong, who had Everton's best attempt before Michael Keane let fly with a thunderous long-range effort eight minutes from time. The shot was heading towards the top left corner but Lammens was again alert, with the Belgium international tipping the ball over.

This result means it is now seven home games without a win in all competitions for Everton, who sit ninth.

• What did you make of Everton’s display?

• Have your say on Manchester United's performance

Man Utd analysis: Carrick's Sesko call pays off

In six games at the helm, Carrick has made two changes to his starting line-up, both due to injury.

Lisandro Martinez missed this one because of a minor calf problem, which meant Leny Yoro had to step in at the back.

He is backing his players, and he knows there is firepower on the bench too.

When United performed as poorly as they had done at West Ham, some critics were already taking to social media to claim the bubble had burst.

However, Carrick has trust in Sesko. With less than an hour gone and with little sign of a goal coming, Carrick sent on his towering forward.

His finish was not as eye-catching as the one at London Stadium, but he held his nerve when it mattered.

Sesko should have had a second after he was sent clear by Diogo Dalot as the game entered stoppage time.

If he had taken it, it would have spared United a few anxious minutes. As it was, he failed to control the ball properly, and England goalkeeper Pickford was able to see off the danger.

Sesko's goals in his latest two games could prove priceless as United strive for one of what seem certain to be five Champions League places for English teams.

Not only have United put three points between themselves and Chelsea and Liverpool, who sit fifth and sixth, but they are now only three points behind third-placed Aston Villa, who they entertain at Old Trafford in three games' time.

Everton analysis: Toffees come unstuck against big-money opponents

David Moyes wore a look of irritation and frustration as he went to shake hands at the final whistle.

The Scot knew that for much of the contest his home side had been the equal of the club he once managed.

But, as has been the case often for Everton, big-spending opponents delivered a moment of quality for which the Toffees had no response.

Moyes has promise in his squad. That was clear when looking at Armstrong, former United midfielder James Garner, who excelled at right-back, and Tyrique George, who was denied by Lammens deep in stoppage time as Everton desperately chased an equaliser.

Tarkowski, Pickford and Keane are reliable and experienced. But the elite level depth is not there.

Moyes spoke in his programme notes about chasing targets beyond the ones Everton have recently been used to going after. In recent seasons, their mission has essentially been to deal with a chronic financial situation and stay up.

A new stadium means new ambitions, and there has been no relegation danger this season. But Everton want more than mid-table security.

The only problem with that is – as Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace are finding out – without sufficient resources, juggling Premier League and European football is a fresh strain on resources than can be exceptionally tough to overcome.

Moyes will keep pushing for those loftier spots in the table because it is his nature, but perhaps the top half and no more would not be a bad outcome for the first campaign away from Goodison Park.

What comes next?

Everton are next in action in the Premier League at Newcastle United on Saturday, 28 February (15:00 GMT). Manchester United entertain Crystal Palace on Sunday, 1 March (14:00 GMT).

The professional boxing world received some massive news on Monday.

On Friday, Floyd Mayweather announced his plans to unretire and resume his professional boxing career after an exhibition fight against Mike Tyson this spring. Now, we know he'll be facing a familiar foe in his return.

Mayweather is set to square off with Manny Pacquiao once again, with the two agreeing to a fight at The Sphere in Las Vegas on Sept. 13. The fight will be streamed on Netflix.

It will be a battle between two former superstars who are well past their primes. Mayweather, who turns 49 on Tuesday, last fought professionally in 2017, when he defeated MMA star Conor McGregor via TKO to move his all-time professional record to 50-0.

Pacquiao, meanwhile, is 47 and last entered the ring professionally in July 2025, when he fought to a draw with Mario Barrios with a WBC welterweight title on the line. Pacquiao is also set to fight an exhibition matchup against former light welterweight world champion Ruslan Provodniko in April, which will also be held in Las Vegas.

The two have met only once in the ring, with Mayweather winning by unanimous decision in what was dubbed "The Fight of the Century" in 2015.

Both boxers released statements through Netflix about the upcoming battle.

"I already fought and beat Manny once," Mayweather declared in a statement released through Netflix. "This time will be the same result.” 

“Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history," Pacquiao added in his own statement. "The fans have waited long enough – they deserve this rematch, and it will be even bigger now that it will be streamed live globally on Netflix. I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him. As always, I dedicate this fight to my fellow Filipinos around the world and to bringing glory to the Philippines."

Though both boxers are pushing 50 and haven't been at the top of the sport in quite some time, the rematch is sure to draw quite a bit of attention as Mayweather puts his undefeated career record to the test in a rematch that's been more than a decade in the making.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Pacquiao vs. Mayweather: Everything we know so far

Manchester United came out on top in a combative clash with Everton.

Michael Carrick’s side got back to winning ways with a 1-0 win at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Benjamin Sesko again coming off the bench to score a crucial goal.

It was another huge cameo from the summer signing, but at the other end there was a lot of work for United to do as Everton mounted a siege on Senne Lammens’ goal.

Maguire magnificent

After a drab first half from both teams the hosts settled into a physical approach, pumping ten corners into the box and crowding the six yard box.

Lammens was fantastic but was well protected by a robust backline fearlessly led by a towering Harry Maguire.

The Englishman rose to the challenge of rebuffing Everton’s tactic and made a match-leading ten clearances, more than double the amount managed by any of his team-mates.

In an illustration of the pattern of the game he did not make a single block, interception or tackle.

Battling performance

Unsurprisingly Maguire was involved in a lot of duels, contesting 12 – only Casemiro attempted more.

The centre-back came out on top nine times, winning two of the three ground duels he contested and seven of nine in the air.

The 32-year-old is often a goal threat for the Red Devils but was not given the opportunity tonight.

On the ball, only Matheus Cunha had a lower passing success rate than Maguire, whose game was more utilitarian than creative.

He found his man with 43 of 55 attempted passes for a success rate of 78%, and only managed two accurate long balls from 11.

Harry Maguire vs. Everton

It may not have been his most virtuosic showing, but his ultimate job is defending the goal and tonight nobody did a better job of it than Maguire.

Stats taken from sofascore.

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

The 2026 free agent list for the Cleveland Browns is a sad sight. There are plenty of guys that GM Andrew Berry could have signed to extensions during this past season, but did not. And now, these talented players are headed to the free agency period, which begins March 9.

One name really stands out: Safety Ronnie Hickman.

RELATED: LB DEVIN LLOYD FREE AGENCY FRENZY

In the Browns’ defensive back room, the following are listed on the free agent list: S Rayshawn Jenkins, CB M.J. Emerson, CB Tre Avery, CB Sam Webb, CB D’Angelo Ross, CB Anthony Kendall, and Hickman. Webb is a restricted free agent, whereas Kendall is an exclusive rights free agent.

Hickman is also a restricted free agent. This means a player who has three accrued seasons with an expired contract. He can negotiate with other NFL clubs, subject to “tender offers” from his original team. Cleveland would have the right of first refusal to match any offer sheet.

If Hickman leaves, or if Berry does not re-sign him before free agency begins, there is trouble in paradise with the safety room. Grant Delpit is the other starter, along with the youngster Donovan McMillon and journeyman Chris Edmonds.

Kamren Curl could come in and become the Day 1 starter for the Browns.

There are plenty of very good safeties in all rounds of the April NFL draft, including Ohio State’s Caleb Downs, who is ranked the #5 prospect in this year’s NFL draft. The Browns are picking at #6, so that is a huge possibility for Cleveland.

However, Berry might have his sights on another player and hopes that the draft falls his way. Waiting to see where Downs goes is not prudent. Berry should consider bringing in another safety from free agency first.

Berry is a former college cornerback, so he has always provided the defensive back room with plenty of talent and developmental players. This group is Berry’s pet project.

This past NFL season, the Browns ranked #4 in the league in defense. Break that down into the #3 passing defense and the #16 rushing defense, so the importance of pass coverage with Cleveland’s defense has been a huge focus.

S Kamren Curl

Los Angeles Rams

6’-2”, 207 pounds

Age: 26

PFF ranking: 73.1

NFL draft: 2020 Round 7, pick #216 (Commanders)

40 time: 4.6

2025 season: 17 starts, 122 tackles, 2 QB hits, 2 sacks, 2 interceptions, 5 batted passes, 4 pressures, 2 hurries, 0 knockdowns, 2 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble, 0 fumble recoveries, 0 batted passes, 7 missed tackles, 47 receptions allowed, 1,112 defensive snaps (99%), 46 special teams snaps (10%)

———————————————————————————–

Curl is a tackler. Period.

586 career tackles in just six seasons. Had a career high this past season with 122 and had 115 in 2023. Very durable and has missed very few games. 93 games played with 86 NFL starts, so he has the experience. His vertical jump is 34.5.”

He is a versatile defensive back with underrated coverage abilities and has zero issues coming up and supporting the run-stopping game. He is known across the league as one of the league’s best run-stopping safeties.

But Curl’s talents don’t just stop with large tackling numbers. He can play free safety, box, lined up at strong safety in college, and play linebacker in the 4-2-5. He is a good blitzer and lends a hand at cornerback if needed.

He is a reliable tackler with just seven missed tackles this past year. Curl excels at closing on the ball and understands passing lanes. Very good instincts and productive.

Curl does lack elite speed, which is a reason why he doesn’t line up at cornerback. And at times his angle pursuit is off, which results in additional yardage gained. His backpedal is smooth and even.

Runs the alley with adequate effort to free himself from blockers. Reads combinations and comes out clean as deep safety.

He is good on kickoff teams as well, so he comes with special teams value. He was paid $9 million on a two-year deal with the Rams.

Projection: Three-years, $39 million

James Harden says he's more than just an NBA player: 'I am a system' originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

James Harden’s most talked-about quote didn’t come after a 50-point night. It came in a press room—and it hasn’t left the conversation since.

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A post shared by 👑Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson (@scoopb)

“I’m just not a system player; I am a system,” Harden said in 2023.

MORE: Angel Reese serves First Lady teas in fitted Versace

At the time, the line drew pushback. But in 2026, as detailed in reporting by Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, the statement reads less like a headline grab and more like a clear explanation of Harden’s role on the floor.

Now with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Harden’s game has shifted from high-volume scoring to full-scale orchestration. Playing alongside Donovan Mitchell, he’s tasked with managing possessions, directing spacing, and creating opportunities before defenses can react.

Harden described what matters most in that role: “Somebody that can have that dialogue with me and understand and move forward and figure out and make adjustments on the fly throughout the course of games, that’s all I really care about. It’s not about me scoring.”

That approach has defined Cleveland’s structure. With frontcourt options like Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, Harden’s ability to process the floor in real time has become central to how the offense functions. Instead of operating within a set system, he dictates it—controlling tempo, reading coverages, and forcing defensive shifts.

Speaking with Robinson, Harden compared that responsibility to elite NFL quarterbacks, pointing to Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Lamar Jackson, and Patrick Mahomes.

“The greats,” Harden said. “All those guys have decisions to make in every possession… It’s a split second.”

MORE: Devin Booker shades Bad Bunny Halftime performance: 'I'm Mexican'

The comparison highlights how Harden views the game. Each possession begins with a read—defender positioning, help coverage, timing—and ends with a decision. Whether it’s a pass to a rolling big or a kick-out to a shooter, the outcome is shaped by those initial reads.

Free agency is weeks away but two major players might not be at the negotiating table.

Tight end Kyle Pitts and wide receiver George Pickens are the major prizes of free agency on offense. Teams besides the Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys, respectively, could be out of luck for negotiating with them.

Atlanta is reportedly using the franchise tag on Pitts and Cowboys co-owner Stephen Jones inferred that was likely for Pickens as well.

“I wouldn’t put any timeframe (on a contract),” Jones told reporters. “Once you have a tag, you have a tag. We know George is going to be here.”

The franchise tag is a tool teams can use to prevent one player per year from reaching free agency. The tag is a one-year, fully guaranteed contract calculated using other salaries at the position.

It prevents the player from securing a longer-term deal from another team at the cost of a fully guaranteed salary.

Non-quarterbacks rarely play a season with the franchise tag. Instead, it's often used as a tool to keep the player at the negotiating table for their original team for longer. Jones' quote points to the Cowboys using the franchise tag to keep Pickens in the building to iron out a contract before the start of 2026. If not, he'll play the season on that one-year deal.

Here's what it means for the rest of free agency at their positions if Pickens and Pitts aren't free to negotiate league-wide:

WR free agency without George Pickens

Pickens is by far the top wide receiver available in this free-agent class. Second-team All-Pro wide receivers rarely are available - especially ones who haven't hit their second contract yet. That's why the Cowboys are motivated to keep him in-house.

If Pickens stays with Dallas, that moves all of the other free agents up a spot in the rankings and with it likely a bump in pay.

Fellow 2022 draftees Alec Pierce and Rashid Shaheed will become the top free agents at wide receiver. Both offer excellent speed on the outside and Shaheed's a dynamic threat in the return game. Jauan Jennings offers a more possession-based skillset but could get a bump in salary with Pickens off the market as well.

Here's the top 10 free agent wide receivers by projected average annual value (AAV) of their future contracts after Pickens, per Spotrac:

1. Jauan Jennings, San Francisco 49ers: $22.61 million
2. Alec Pierce, Indianapolis Colts: $20.24 million
3. Wan'dale Robinson, New York Giants: $17.64 million
4. Deebo Samuel, Washington Commanders: $15.77 million
5. Tyreek Hill, Miami Dolphins: $15.07 million
6. Rashid Shaheed, Seattle Seahawks: $14.12 million
7. Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: $13.31 million
8. Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers: $12.00 million
9. Keenan Allen, Los Angeles Chargers: $6.81 million
10. Hollywood Brown, Kansas City Chiefs: $5.5 million

TE free agency without Kyle Pitts

Pitts has draft pedigree as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, as well as recent production with his second-team All-Pro award in 2025.

Like Pickens, there's a mix of options beyond him at the position, either veterans or second-contract players. Teams will have to decide if they value more youth or production at the position with handing out money in this free-agent cycle. Without Pitts, there's a chance the other players have a chance to make more money but the overall tight end market isn't on the same level as wide receiver. Teams aren't as willing to spend big on the position in the same way.

Here's a look at the top 10 free agents at the position without Pitts, per Spotrac projected AAV:

1. Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs: $10.77 million
2. David Njoku, Cleveland Browns: $9.99 million
3. Isaiah Likely, Baltimore Ravens: $8.81 million
4. Chig Okonkwo, Tennessee Titans: $7.96 million
5. Cade Otton, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: $7.91 million
6. Dallas Goedert, Philadelphia Eagles: $6.00 million
7. Tyler Higbee, Los Angeles Rams: $5.35 million
8. Tyler Conklin, Los Angeles Chargers: $3.33 million
9. Noah Fant, Cincinnati Bengals: $3.22 million
10. Darren Waller, Miami Dolphins: $3.21 million

All the NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter. Check out the latest edition: Top 100 free agents for 2026.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pitts, Pickens franchise tags' impact on NFL free agency at WR and TE

Girona earned a point at Mendizorrotza after drawing 2-2 against Deportivo Alavés in an intense match that was decided in the final moments. Míchel's team managed to respond to the initial blow from the Basques but saw the victory slip away in the 89th minute.

The match started off difficult for the Girona side. In the 5th minute, Boyé put Alavés ahead, taking advantage of a quick action inside the box that caught the visiting defense off guard. The early goal forced Girona to take control of the game and patiently look for their scoring opportunities.

The response came in the 31st minute. Vanat finished off a set-piece play after a corner to restore balance and reward the growing dominance of the red-and-whites. The goal gave Míchel's team confidence, and they ended the first half with better sensations and control of the ball.

In the second half, Girona made a decisive step forward. With more presence in the opponent's half and a more vertical passing game, the Catalans found their reward in the 73rd minute. Ounahi, returning to action after the Africa Cup of Nations and his injury, showcased his quality and assisted Tsygankov with a precise pass that the winger coolly converted into a 1-2 lead.

Just as Girona was on the verge of securing three points, a cold shower arrived. In the 89th minute, Boyé scored his second goal, capitalizing on a shot inside the box to make it 2-2. It was an excessive punishment for a Girona side that had managed to come back and created the clearest chances to win the match.

Despite the final disappointment, the point leaves Girona in eleventh place in the standings, with the good news of Ounahi's return, who was instrumental in the second goal. Next Sunday, March 1st, at 9:00 PM, Girona will host Celta de Vigo at Montilivi.

The Buffalo Bills announced that they have re-signed defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis. The former second-round pick agreed to a one year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Mathis, who will turn 28 in April, was chosen 47th overall by the Washington Commanders in the 2022 NFL Draft. He spent three injury-plagued seasons with the club, totaling just 25 tackles and two tackles for loss across only 23 games. Washington released him in December 2024, and he signed with the New York Jets’ practice squad. He did not appear in a game for Gang Green, and he was released in August 2025.

Mathis signed with Buffalo’s practice squad on September 10, 2025. The Bills elevated him for two contests—a 23-20 loss to the New England Patriots in Week Five and a 28-21 win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Week Eight—before signing him to their 53-man roster on November 5. Mathis played in four more games during the regular season, and in two of them, he was a huge contributor. He had four tackles in victories over the Cleveland Browns and the New York Jets. Overall, he showed good burst and solid anchor against the run, totaling 13 tackles in his six regular season games.

Mathis also played six snaps in the Bills’ Wild Card victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. At 6’4” and 312 lbs. with 34.5” arms, he profiles as someone who can play multiple spots along an odd-man defensive line, which is the scheme the Bills will utilize under new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. Coming out of Alabama, NFL Network’s Lance Zierlein called him a “scheme-versatile player” who could play nose tackle in either an odd front or an even front, or a 5-tech defensive end in a 3-4 scheme. Zierlein’s professional comparison for Mathis was DaQuan Jones, Buffalo’s top 1-tech defensive tackle for the last four seasons.

News had previously leaked regarding Buffalo re-signing offensive lineman Alec Anderson, and the Bills officially announced his signing in the same release announcing the Mathis contract.

1 Chiefs move could spell doom for AFC in 2026 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Kansas City Chiefs aren't expected to have a down season again, as they did in 2025. Last season was viewed as "the" time to cash in, and it was the Seattle Seahawks who did.

But for the AFC, it was a chance missed, as Patrick Mahomes' Chiefs are predicted to bounce back in 2026, having had ample time to fix their glaring weaknesses. 

The AFC's top dog had a down year but feels primed for a good season, and if one move goes down, it could spell doom for the rest of the AFC.

If Tyreek Hill rejoins Kansas City, as ESPN's Nate Taylor writes, it will complete Mahomes' Infinity Gauntlet ahead of 2026.

“If both parties can agree to a deal, whether later in the offseason or early in the season, Hill would be reunited with Mahomes, coach Andy Reid and potentially tight end Travis Kelce, who is strongly considering re-signing with the team for the 14th season in his career, according to multiple members of the Chiefs' organization," Taylor wrote.

More:Analyst tips Buccaneers to do unthinkable this offseason

Hill reunion nightmare fuel for AFC

Well, on paper anyway.

Mahomes having Hill, Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Travis Kelce isn't a bad quartet to have. Plus, if the Chiefs also address their run game, with say, Travis Etienne or Breece Hall, then yeah, the franchise will be a big problem.

Over the coming weeks, we will watch intently to see how Kansas City goes about fixing its roster after the disaster that was 2025.

And if Hill is signed, along with a star running back (even drafting Jeremiyah Love), the Chiefs will once again have that ominous feel about them.

Kansas City allowed someone else to play with the NFL toys for one season. No more.

More NFL news:

• ESPN analyst offers eyebrow-raising take on Travis Kelce's Chiefs future
• Breece Hall appears fed up with constant unknown over Jets future
• Saints' Cam Jordan gives huge vote of confidence for Tyler Shough as franchise leader
• Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr. has perfect response to poor 2025 form
• Chiefs' two-time Super Bowl champion pays the price for horror season
• Worrying theme developing for Ravens' biggest offseason need
• Bills facing huge decision that could impact 2026 success

Anthony Slater: The Hawks have upgraded Jonathan Kuminga to questionable tomorrow night vs the Wizards. The expectation is that he will make his Atlanta debut.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Jonathan Kuminga expected to debut for Hawks against Wizards

Joel Lorenzi: Coby White (calf strain) has been upgraded to probable for what’s shaping up to be his Hornets debut on Tuesday in…Chicago.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Coby White may make his Hornets debut against the Bulls, his former team

Bennett Durando: Nuggets w/o Nikola Jokic: Clutch games 8-2 Non-clutch games 2-4 Nuggets w/ Jokic: Clutch games 6-13 Non-clutch games 20-3 (including Miami game that was tied when he got hurt) Unusually poor 4Q execution. But also only *2* uncompetitive losses when their star player is healthy.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Nuggets w/o Nikola Jokic:

Dan Woike: Asked Rui Hachimura this today at practice

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Asked Rui Hachimura this today at practice https://t.co/Zkc7I3qKJzpic.twitter.com/PEPFYLjjhr

— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) February 23, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Asked Rui Hachimura this today at practice

Alexa Philippou: Breaking: The WNBA told the WNBPA and its teams today that a term sheet for a new CBA ought to be completed by March 10 for the 2026 schedule not to be impacted. That's two weeks from tomorrow.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The WNBA told the WNBPA and its teams today that a …

When Manchester United were looking for a saviour this season, they opted not to revert to their greatest super-sub. They may not have Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the dugout but they seem to have his successor in spirit on the pitch. Benjamin Sesko is yet to start a game under Michael Carrick but he has come off the bench to score three times, all significant, delivering an extra five points.

First the winner against Fulham, then an equaliser at West Ham, now a decider at Everton. It was early by Sesko’s standards – in the 71st minute, rather than injury time, when Jordan Pickford denied him a second – but it felt further evidence of Carrick’s nous. United had looked blunt before his arrival, lacking inspiration and a focal point in attack. Sesko is the only pure No 9 in the squad and, once again, he illustrated the merits of a penalty-box presence. In time, Carrick may have an issue if he can keep naming Sesko on the bench. For now, their alliance is benefiting both. Carrick said: “I have got a really good relationship with Ben. He has taken some huge steps recently.”

In a game low on drama, the goal came from a sweeping move. Everton, who had been the more positive in the second half, may regret committing too many men forward, leaving themselves open to the counter-attack which, whether under Carrick or Solskjaer, tends to be United’s most potent weapon.

Sesko was involved twice in a move that involved their three big summer signings. He laid the ball off to Matheus Cunha, who sprayed a diagonal pass to release Bryan Mbeumo. He was confronted only by Michael Keane and squared the ball for Sesko, who had run 70 yards to slide in a shot. “It was a ruthless finish,” said Carrick. “I like the way he put it away with real confidence.” It was the Slovenian’s eighth goal for United. He only had two in 17 games when Ruben Amorim was sacked.

And United have been transformed since then. They took their haul under Carrick to 16 points from a possible 18, a charge that is putting them on a path towards the Champions League. A distinctly mundane match nevertheless produced a fine result for United.

Arguably, they undid some of the damage done on one of Amorim’s most ignominious nights. In November, his United were clueless when confronted with the 10 men of Everton and lost at Old Trafford. The rematch was different and not just because Idrissa Gueye completed the evening without slapping a teammate. Unlike Amorim, Carrick found a way. Successful substitutions have been a theme of his reign, and not just those involving Sesko.

For one of his predecessors, it was a frustrating reunion. David Moyes has now seen Everton go seven games without a win at Hill Dickinson Stadium. They are yet to record a win over elite opposition at their deluxe ground and, when they were looking more ambitious than United, they conceded.

They had rarely threatened to in the preceding hour. They almost struck early, when James Tarkowski cleared Amad Diallo’s fourth-minute shot off the line, though Pickford had taken some of the sting out of it. Thereafter, Diogo Dalot thudded a long-range half-volley into the advertising hoardings while, after the break, Mbeumo blazed a shot over from an acute angle.

If the first half had seemed a contest to give the ball away most, United could savour the earthy qualities that earned them a result. “I'm delighted with the result and spirit, the boys digging deep and sacrificing for each other,” said Carrick. He played his own part. They had too little threat on either flank, so he removed Amad, brought on Sesko and recalibrated his side.

Moyes, of course, did not have a £73m striker in reserve; or in the team, for that matter. “The quality you are talking about costs big money,” he lamented.

The cheaper striker he does have, Thierno Barry, could have scored inside 10 seconds, albeit without knowing much about it, when Senne Lammens slammed a clearance into him. After that, the Belgian impressed rather more. “Senne was outstanding tonight,” said Carrick. “As a goalkeeper you couldn’t hope for much more: safe hands, calm, composed, an exemplary performance.”

Lammens held on to James Garner’s well-struck free kick, saved from Harrison Armstrong less than 30 seconds into the second half and, as Everton chased an equaliser, tipped away Keane’s thunderbolt from distance and thwarted the replacement Tyrique George in injury time. “Their goalie was bloody brilliant,” said Moyes, who nominated Lammens as his man of the match. Everton had directed a series of corners under the bar. They had not realised Lammens would deal with them so well, Moyes reflected ruefully.

With three summer signings combining for the goal, a fourth excelling in goal, it felt a triumph of United’s recruitment. Of players and, more recently, a head coach.

Since 2026 began, Tony Khan has been acquisition mode for both AEW and Ring of Honor, either announcing or reportedly signing talents such as Alec Price, Clark Connors, Jake Doyle, Jordan Oliver, Lena Kross, Mascara Dorada, Persephone, Tommaso Ciampa, The Rascalz, and The IInspiration. The large amount of signings, and rumors of other moves being in the works, have led to many wondering what the signings could mean, particularly when it comes to the future of Ring of Honor, which has long sought a TV deal.

While Khan may still be in search of said TV deal for ROH, he does at least have some plans to differentiate the promotion's TV schedule from AEW. Fightful Select reports that ROH is currently scheduled to hold a TV taping at WJCT Studios in Jacksonville, Florida on March 1. Talents had been made aware of these tapings over the past several weeks, and it has been indicated that WJCT Studios could be the home of ROH TV going forward, though that's not confirmed.

This would be a change in approach for ROH TV tapings, which over the last several years had been done before or after tapings for "AEW Dynamite" or "AEW Collision." At times under Khan's stewardship, ROH has had its own tapings separate from "Dynamite" and "Collision," including the first four episodes of "ROH on HonorClub" being taped out of Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. This, however, would mark the first time ROH would have a permanent home venue since Khan purchased the promotion in March 2022.

While all indications are that Jacksonville will become ROH's home turf, it appears the WJCT Studios were not the promotion's first choice for venue. That would instead be Daily's Place, with speculation dating back years that ROH could use the venue, which served as AEW's home base during the COVID-19 pandemic. That would not be suitable now, however, as Daily's Place is currently undergoing renovations, which are expected to continue until at least 2027.

Read more: AEW Stars: Meet Their Spouses & Partners

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Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao made boxing history in 2015.

More than a decade later, the two boxing legends are hoping to do it again.

The two will fight in a professional rematch Sept. 19. The event, which will be streamed live on Netflix, will be the first boxing match to be held at the Las Vegas Sphere.

The first time around, Mayweather defeated Pacquiao by unanimous decision on May 2, 2015, in the so-called "Fight of the Century" at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Read more:Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano come back for MMA bout set for May in Inglewood

"I already fought and beat Manny once," Mayweather said in a statement released by Netflix. "This time will be the same result.”

That fight generated 4.6 million pay-per-view buys and a live gate of $72 million, both of which are still records.

It was a long-awaited matchup between two of the biggest names in the boxing world — 38-year-old Mayweather (47-0, 26 KO) and 36-year-old Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 KO) — that ultimately earned Mayweather the World Boxing Council, World Boxing Assn. and World Boxing Organization welterweight titles.

Read more:Floyd Mayweather Jr. sues Showtime for $340 million over 'financial fraud' and fight earnings

The backdrop to this year's bout is a bit different. Mayweather is now 50-0 (27 KO) and will be 49 on Tuesday. He has retired and unretired multiple times but has not fought in a bout that counts since his 10-round technical knockout of Conor McGregor in 2017.

Although he still has an exhibition fight against Mike Tyson coming up on a still-unannounced date this spring, Mayweather announced last week that he is resuming his professional fighting career.

Pacquiao, 47, is 62-9-2 (39 KO). In July, he lost by majority draw to WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in an attempt to break his own record for oldest welterweight champion. He was 40 when he defeated Keith Thurman for the title in 2019.

Read more:Commentary: Manny Pacquiao's Hall of Fame-caliber talent was only matched by his longevity

Pacquiao recently announced a a 10-round welterweight exhibition against former junior welterweight world champion Ruslan Provodnikov on April 18 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

"Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history," Pacquiao said in a statement released by Netflix. "The fans have waited long enough — they deserve this rematch, and it will be even bigger now that it will be streamed live globally on Netflix. I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him."

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

Fairhope (Ala.) St. Michael Catholic four-star quarterback Gunner Rivers is following in his father’s legendary footsteps.

The son of former NFL star and future Hall of Famer Philip Rivers has committed to NC State, choosing to join the Wolf Pack 26 years after his father did back in 2000. Gunner chose NC State over reported offers from Auburn, Georgia, Miami, Boston College and more.

One of the top quarterbacks nationally in the 2027 class, Rivers has long been thought of as a lean to the school where his father won ACC Player of the Year honors in 2003 and Rivers broke almost every NC State and ACC passing record.

Gunner himself has had a record-breaking high school career and is coming off a junior season where he completed 208 of 290 passes (72%) for 2,813 yards, 44 touchdowns and just five interceptions. In the process, he led St. Michael Catholic to a 13-1 record and an appearance in the state title game vs. powerhouse Jackson.

Standing in at 6’3 and 200 pounds, he ranks as the nation’s No. 117 overall prospect and No. 12 quarterback, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, an equally weighted average that utilizes all three major recruiting services.

He also ranks as the No. 4 player from the state of Alabama this cycle.

This breaking news story will be updated.

Steelers, Vikings, Cardinals named possible landing spots for $71 million quarterback originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There are going to be plenty of teams in the market for a quarterback this offseason, and among them could be the Pittsburgh Steelers, Minnesota Vikings and Arizona Cardinals.

In Pittsburgh, the Steelers still don't have an answer on Aaron Rodgers. If he doesn't come back, the Steelers need to make an addition to a quarterbacks room that would include the unproven Will Howard and backup Mason Rudolph.

The Vikings have J.J. McCarthy under contract, but he failed to cement himself as the team's locked-in starter for the long haul after a poor second season. As a result, the expectation is the Vikings are going to at least add veteran competition.

As for the Cardinals, it appears Kyler Murray's days are numbered. If he is shown the door, we would bet Arizona won't be keen on staking its future to the Jacoby Brissett wagon, no matter how well he played in 2025.

One quarterback who could be the most coveted in free agency is Green Bay Packers signal-caller Malik Willis. On SI's Ethen Hutton believes the Steelers, Cardinals and Vikings are all possible landing spots for him.

"Willis projects to be a sound fit in Minnesota’s talented offense under quarterback-friendly coach Kevin O’Connell. Monitoring his fantasy football outlook, his stock would take a sizable leap with Jefferson and Addison on the perimeter," Hutton said of Willis to the Vikings. "His consistency as a passer will help elevate the Vikings’ offense, with significant upside among fantasy entering the 2026 season. His rushing upside will also pair well with the likes of Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason in the run game, bolstering the rushing attack."

"In Pittsburgh, Willis would join an offense featuring DK Metcalf and a talented tight end trio featuring the likes of Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith," he said of Willis to Pittsburgh. "He’d also add a new dynamic to the Steelers’ backfield tandem of Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell. From a fantasy football perspective, his stock would take a sizable leap in Pittsburgh, filling the team’s need for a franchise quarterback. His outlook is highly encouraging for fantasy managers as Willis gears up for his first season as a starter."

"Willis fits Arizona’s offense system under new head coach Mike LaFleur, the brother of Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, as the team looks to bring in another mobile quarterback," Hutton said of the Liberty product going to Arizona. "From a fantasy football standpoint, the Cardinals offer one of the best supporting casts of any team on our list, bolstering Willis’ fantasy stock immensely for the 2026 season. With Willis set to take over a starting job, he’s slated to break out in fantasy football next season. The Cardinals’ weapons could help Willis emerge as one of fantasy’s top quarterbacks next season, with additional upside as a rusher in LaFleur’s offense."

A former third-round pick of the Tennessee Titans, Willis looked like he was going to be a bust after two years in the NFL. Then, a trade to the Packers changed everything.

Willis didn't see a ton of action while serving as Jordan Love's backup, but he no doubt made the most of his opportunities and looked like a completely different quarterback than the one we saw in Nashville.

He showed he can make all the throws, and with accuracy, and his decision-making and pocket presence was top notch. As an added bonus, Willis has plus-athleticism to escape the rush.

Willis doesn't come without some risk, though.

We believe Willis will command something close to what Spotrac projects, which is a two-year, $71 million contract. That might seem crazy for a guy with just six career starts, but he should enough promise to warrant that kind of money.

Essentially Sports' Tony Pauline reports that many around the league believe Willis is going to end up with the Cardinals, so Arizona is a realistic possibility, assuming they do indeed cut or trade Murray.

The Steelers' interest in Willis will depend upon what happens with Rodgers, but if the future Hall of Famer doesn't return, we believe Pittsburgh would be willing to take a swing on Willis.

When it comes to the Vikings, reports suggest they would like to sign a veteran quarterback, but we would not rule Minnesota out from pursuing Willis if head coach Kevin O'Connell believes he can be an upgrade over McCarthy.

More NFL News

• Kyle Pitts rumor is bad news for Giants, Commanders, Eagles, Broncos
• Falcons rumor could lead to trade with Steelers, Dolphins or Jets
• Maxx Crosby rumor gives Bills, Cowboys, Eagles, Pats minimum trade price
• Rumor from NFL Network reveals Browns' interest in top free agent
• Cardinals believed to be most likely landing landing spot for $71M QB

Holders Chelsea will host Tottenham Hotspur in the Women's FA Cup quarter-finals.

Spurs beat London City Lionesses 9-8 on penalties in the final fifth-round tie on Monday, the match having finished 2-2 after extra time.

WSL 2 side Birmingham City welcome WSL leaders Manchester City, while Brighton will travel to 14-time FA Cup winners Arsenal.

Charlton Athletic, the WSL 2 leaders, will face top-flight strugglers Liverpool.

The fixtures are set to be played on Sunday, 5 April.

Six-time winners Chelsea reached the quarter-finals on Sunday by beating Manchester United 2-1, thanks to an extra-time goal from defender Naomi Girma.

Women's FA Cup quarter-final draw

Charlton Athletic v Liverpool

Chelsea v Tottenham Hotspur

Arsenal v Brighton and Hove Albion

Birmingham City v Manchester City

• Chelsea, Arsenal and Man City into Women's FA Cup quarters
• Enderby hurt as Liverpool edge past Everton in cup derby
• Smith taken off on stretcher in Arsenal FA Cup win

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie are back for another season of the Women's Football Weekly podcast. New episodes drop every Tuesday on BBC Sounds, plus find interviews and extra content from the Women's Super League and beyond on the Women's Football Weekly feed

• Get the latest WSL news on our dedicated page

Manchester United boss Michael Carrick praised the impact of super-sub Benjamin Sesko after the Slovenian's cool finish earned a 1-0 win at Everton on Monday night.

Sesko is yet to start in Carrick's six matches in charge but has come off the bench to net in three of his last four appearances with vital goals.

The 22-year-old also scored a late winner against Fulham and rescued a point against West Ham deep into stoppage time in United's previous outing.

Sesko started the move that led to the winning goal as all of United's £200 million ($270 million) trio of attacking signings last summer combined to great effect.

Matheus Cunha picked out the run of Bryan Mbeumo, who squared for Sesko to slot home his sixth goal in seven appearances since Ruben Amorim was sacked in January.

Victory lifted United into the Premier League's top four, three points clear of Liverpool and Chelsea in the battle for a place in next season's Champions League.

"It was a ruthless finish, I like the way he put it away with real confidence," said Carrick, who has five wins and one draw since taking charge at Old Trafford.

"Great play from Matheus and Bryan to set it up. Delighted for Ben again, coming on and making the difference."

United did not hit the height of sparkling performances to beat title challengers Arsenal and Manchester City in Carrick's first two matches in charge during an uninspired clash at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

But the former Middlesbrough boss was delighted with a third clean sheet in six games.

United had held opponents goalless just twice in 29 matches this season before Carrick's arrival.

"We had to do a lot of work. Credit to Everton they made it difficult, made us defend our box a lot. The spirit with which we defended the box was top class," added Carrick.

Goalkeeper Senne Lammens made a couple of vital saves to continue an impressive debut season at United for the 23-year-old Belgian.

"Senne was oustanding tonight," said Carrick. "You couldn't hope for much more from a goalkeeper. It was an exempalary performance, so delighted for him.

"You want (a goalkeeper) to take the chaos away and Senne is that. That calmness and composure helps those in front of him."

kca/pb

Manchester United climbed into the Premier League top four with a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Everton, as Benjamin Sesko’s second-half strike proved decisive at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Michael Carrick’s side arrived knowing that three points would move them above Chelsea, and they delivered in a contest short on quality but rich in significance.

United began brightly and almost took an early lead when Amad Diallo’s low effort was parried by Jordan Pickford before James Tarkowski cleared off the line.

Everton responded with energy but struggled to carve out clear openings against a disciplined visiting back line.

James Garner tested Senne Lammens with a dipping free-kick before the interval, yet clear-cut chances remained limited.

The first half was defined by intensity rather than incision, with both sides cancelling each other out in midfield.

Everton started the second period with greater urgency and Harrison Armstrong forced a sharp save from Lammens inside the opening minute.

United gradually regained composure and Bryan Mbeumo spurned a promising opportunity when he volleyed over from close range.

Carrick turned to his bench just before the hour mark, introducing Sesko in search of greater penetration.

The substitution proved decisive 13 minutes later with a swift counter-attacking move.

Matheus Cunha initiated the break with a forward pass into space for Mbeumo, who drove at the retreating defence.

Mbeumo waited for support and delivered a precise ball into the path of Sesko, who had sprinted from deep.

The Slovenian striker applied a composed first-time finish beyond Pickford to register his eighth goal of the season.

Everton pushed forward in response and Michael Keane unleashed a powerful effort that was tipped over by Lammens.

The hosts continued to press in the closing stages but United defended resolutely to preserve their narrow advantage.

Sesko had an opportunity to add a second late on but failed to control cleanly when sent through on goal.

The final whistle confirmed a vital away win that strengthens United’s Champions League ambitions.

Carrick’s men now sit fourth, overtaking Chelsea and building momentum at a crucial stage of the campaign.

The defeat extends Everton’s frustrating run at home and leaves them searching for consistency.

Sesko’s timely intervention once again proved the difference in a tightly contested encounter for United.

Browns rumor suggests Cleveland could ditch Shedeur Sanders for $71 million quarterback originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Cleveland Browns could be preparing to move on from Shedeur Sanders as their starting quarterback.

Sanders started seven games for the Browns in 2025, and though he showed potential by posting a 3-4 record, it looks like Cleveland doesn't plan on heading into 2026 with the Colorado product as QB1.

According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, the Browns are targeting Green Bay Packers free agent quarterback Malik Willis. The franchise also has interest in Alabama signal-caller Ty Simpson in April's draft.

"Packers backup quarterback Malik Willis and Alabama’s Ty Simpson are among the external quarterbacks on the Browns’ radar with the NFL Combine kicking off Tuesday and free agency starting in two weeks," Cabot said.

Signing Willis would be a savvy move by general manager Andrew Berry.

Willis has done a terrific job filling in for Jordan Love over the last two seasons, showcasing his efficiency with a 78.7% completion rate on 89 passes with Green Bay.

The Liberty product possesses a dynamic skillset that head coach Todd Monken can maximize. Monken coached Lamar Jackson with the Baltimore Ravens for three seasons, so he knows a thing or two about working with mobile quarterbacks.

Spotrac projects Willis will land a $71 million contract over two seasons in free agency, an average annual value of $35.5 million. That would be a hefty price point, but one Cleveland would pay if they believe Willis can be their quarterback of the future.

VITORIA-GASTEIZ, Spain (AP) — Lucas Boyé scored twice for Alaves to draw with Girona 2-2 in an end-to-end La Liga encounter at Estadio Mendizorroza on Monday.

The second straight draw for Alaves lifted it three points clear of La Liga’s relegation zone.

Girona was three places and three points better off, although only six points separate Girona in 11th and Mallorca in the last of the three relegation spots.

The home side took the initiative after just five minutes when Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga missed Yusi’s low cross, allowing Boyé to side-foot home from close range.

However, Girona came roaring back and 14 minutes before the break it was level, Axel Witsel’s glancing header touched into the net by Vladyslav Vanat.

Girona took the lead in the 73rd minute when Azzedine Ounahi’s superb reverse pass split the Alaves defence. Viktor Tsygankov showed a cool head to round the keeper and slot the ball into the empty net.

But Boyé’s header a minute from time gave Alaves a deserved draw that could be crucial in its fight against the drop.

“We’re at home, and we know that to reach our objective as quickly as possible we have to pick up three points here, especially against direct rivals,” Boyé said. “We’re frustrated by the draw and by not getting all three points.”

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

In 2020, when George Kittle was 26, the San Francisco 49ers gave their All-Pro tight end a five-year contract extension.

In 2021, when Fred Warner was 24, the 49ers gave their All-Pro linebacker a five-year extension.

In 2022, when Deebo Samuel was 26, the 49ers gave their All-Pro wide receiver a three-year extension.

Samuel's deal was shorter because the 49ers thought the part-time running back with a violent style and fluctuating weight wouldn't age well. They were right. And that's why they're wrong if they think a reunion with Samuel next month is a good idea.

A year after the 49ers dealt Samuel to the Commanders not long after he requested a trade, Kittle has fueled speculation the 49ers want to bring back the only wide receiver in league history with at least 20 career touchdowns receiving and 20 touchdowns rushing.

Earlier this month, during Super Bowl week, Kittle said the 49ers could be adding some "past friends" to the roster this offseason. When pressed, Kittle responded by saying he'd had "fun" hanging out with Samuel the previous night. Does he want Samuel back with the 49ers?

"I love Deebo," Kittle said to Sports Illustrated Now. "Are you kidding me? … I love Deebo. That's all. I love Deebo."

It's possible Kittle is messing with the media and the exchange isn't foreshadowing Samuel's return to Santa Clara in 2026. The fan base should hope so: The 49ers will likely be in the wide receiver market when free agency's legal tampering period begins March 9, but Samuel, 30, shouldn't be on the shopping list of a team that needs to get younger and faster.

Last season, Samuel had 72 catches (99 targets) for 727 yards and five touchdowns in 16 games, which aren't necessarily buyer-beware numbers. Samuel caught 72.7% of his targets, his highest figure since 2020, had the second-most receptions of his seven-season career and his yardage total was his second-highest since his breakout 2021 season.

In 2021, Samuel, who dubbed himself a "wide back," was a big-play machine thanks to his rare combination of acceleration and force: He led the NFL in yards per catch (18.2), averaged 6.2 on his carries, ranked third in yards from scrimmage (1,770), led wideouts in broken tackles after receptions (13) and was second in the league in yards after catch (768). His eight rushing touchdowns were an NFL record for a wideout and his six rushing scores of 10-plus yards were more than 23 NFL teams.

Running back Christian McCaffrey said earlier this month that Samuel would unquestionably be welcomed back to the 49ers while highlighting his menacing traits.

"When the ball is in his hands, you can see a lot of times the fear in defenses," McCaffrey said on the "Up and Adams" podcast. "… He's an enforcer on offense. He'll run through your face."

But that was then. Now? Samuel, who has never been known for his route-running ability, lacks the qualities that set him apart. In 2025, he had career-lows in yards per catch (10.1) and yards after catch per reception (6.5). Most telling: He had six broken tackles on his 72 catches, averaging one broken tackle per 12 receptions, after averaging a broken tackle every 5.7 catches in his first six seasons.

It's part of a steep decline that began in his last season with the 49ers. Samuel led NFL receivers with 38 broken tackles after catches from 2021 through 2023, and his yards per rushing attempt (6.3) in his first five seasons (2019-23) was the highest among players with 150-plus rushes over that span.

In the past two seasons, he's had 17 broken tackles on his 182 touches, five fewer than he had on his 136 touches in 2021, and he's averaged 3.6 yards on his 59 carries.

A descending 30-year-old pass catcher shouldn't be what the 49ers are seeking. In 2025, they had three Pro Bowl skill-positions players - Kittle, McCaffrey and fullback Kyle Juszczyk - who will have an average age of 32.3 by the 2026 regular-season opener. Their aging headliners, along with the season-long absence of wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, partly explain their lack of explosiveness. Last year, linebacker Dee Winters recorded their fastest speed by a ballcarrier, hitting 20.15 mph on an interception.

With possession receiver Jauan Jennings, 28, possibly poised to leave in free agency, and Aiyuk's tenure about to end, the 49ers need to address their wide receiver group.

Per spotrac.com, Samuel is projected to receive a free-agent contract averaging at least $15 million annually, which is pricey given his trajectory. They 49ers could spend more on a younger, faster wideout in free agency - the Colts' Alec Pierce, 25, and Giants' Wan'Dale Robinson, 25, are top options - add to the position in the draft and see if two recent draft picks with wheels can assume roles after injury filled starts to their careers.

The most intriguing option is Jordan Watkins, a 2025 fourth-round pick who has run a 4.37-second 40-yard dash. The 49ers also have Jacob Cowing, a 2024 fourth-rounder (4.38 seconds).

It's possible adding Samuel isn't on the 49ers' radar despite Kittle's comments. After all, less than a week before general manager John Lynch traded Samuel last year, he said the relationship had run its course.    

"Everything's good, but I think at some point, time happens," Lynch said. "He asked for that (trade). We don't always (grant trade requests) - there's contracts and things - but it probably makes sense."

And it's now logical to stay apart considering more time has passed for a player the 49ers correctly projected wouldn't age gracefully. It should be an easy call for the 49ers when it comes to Samuel: pass.

This article originally published at Should 49ers and Deebo Samuel run it back? Analyzing potential reunion with the ‘wide back'.

Early Monday morning, the Chicago Cubs agreed to terms with veteran outfielder Michael Conforto on a minor league contract.

The deal includes an invitation to big league camp and will pay Conforto $2 million if he makes Chicago’s Opening Day roster and has his contract selected.

Most baseball fans will probably chuckle at the thought of a team giving Conforto another shot — and maybe rightfully so after the numbers he posted in 2025 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. But I actually think this is a perfect deal for the Cubs. It’s a fantastic buy-low opportunity on an outfielder with solid underlying metrics and a relatively high offensive floor. And because it’s a minor league deal, it doesn’t require the Cubs to make a corresponding move on the 40-man roster.

As I alluded to, Conforto’s 2025 season was a disaster — by far the worst of his career. He appeared in 138 games for the Dodgers and hit .199 with 12 home runs and a .637 OPS. All year long, Los Angeles searched for ways to replace him in the lineup. By the postseason, they had. Conforto did not appear in a single playoff game as the Dodgers went on to win back-to-back World Series titles.

Numbers like that are hard to overlook, and they’re a far cry from what Conforto once was. We can’t pretend he’s still the 33-home-run hitter from 2019 or the 24-year-old who posted a .939 OPS with the New York Mets and earned an NL All-Star selection in 2017. That was nearly a decade ago.

But even as recently as 2024 with the San Francisco Giants, Conforto hit 20 home runs and posted a 115 OPS+. He was still a comfortably above-average MLB bat, even as his defense has gradually declined with age.

That’s why it’s important to look at the underlying metrics and understand why Conforto — even after a rough 2025 — remains an intriguing minor league signing.

It starts with his pitch recognition. Even during that disastrous season, Conforto posted a chase rate in the 82nd percentile among qualified MLB hitters. His walk rate ranked in the 84th percentile. He walked enough to maintain a .305 on-base percentage despite hitting just .199. To put that in perspective, he reached base at a higher clip than Dansby Swanson and Pete Crow-Armstrong in 2025. That’s a pretty respectable floor for the worst year of your career.

On top of that plate discipline, Conforto still has natural power. He didn’t make enough contact to fully tap into it in 2025, but his bat speed ranked in the 77th percentile among hitters — and was in the 82nd percentile the year before. This isn’t a hitter who needs everything perfectly aligned with his launch angle and barrel rate to do damage. If he can simply make more contact — even raising his batting average from .199 to something closer to the .230 he posted in 2024 — you could be looking at a player who gets on base at a .350 clip with 20-plus home runs.

That’s absolutely worth a minor league flier.

And it’s an even cleaner fit for the Cubs, who are still looking for a bench outfielder to separate himself and claim a spot on the Opening Day roster.

Kevin Alcántara and Justin Dean are both on the 40-man roster, but each has minor league options remaining. Conforto now joins Dylan Carlson and Chas McCormick in what should be a legitimate competition for the final bench spot.

If things break right and Conforto returns to something resembling his 2024 form, he also gives the Cubs another layer of protection. If Moisés Ballesteros doesn’t hit the ground running and experiences growing pains at DH, Conforto could slide into right field, allowing Seiya Suzuki to shift back into the designated hitter role.

This wasn’t a move that had been heavily rumored, and it certainly wasn’t on my radar. But it feels like a smart, calculated buy-low acquisition by Jed Hoyer. And by the end of spring training, we should have a pretty clear answer on which version of Michael Conforto the Cubs are getting — and whether he’s worth keeping around.

Former Georgia State tight end Breylen Gilbert has committed to Arkansas, via the NCAA Transfer Portal. He officially entered the transfer portal on Jan. 2.

Gilbert didn’t see any in-game action during his two seasons at Georgia State. He played high school football at Creekside (GA), where he was an unranked prospect, according to the Rivals Industry Rankings.

Breylen Gilbert is the 42nd player who has committed to Arkansas via the NCAA Transfer Portal this offseason. In comparison, the Razorbacks have lost 38 players to the portal.

The program is experiencing significant roster turnover during its first offseason under new head coach Ryan Silverfield. Arkansas hired Silverfield to be its next head coach on Nov. 30.

Silverfield was Memphis‘ head coach from 2020-25. In his six seasons at the helm of Memphis, Silverfield led the program to a 50-25 overall record and a 27-21 mark in conference play.

Silverfield replaced Sam Pittman, who was Arkansas’ head coach from 2020-25. Pittman was fired after Arkansas began the 2025 campaign with a 2-3 overall record and 0-1 in SEC play.

Pittman’s best season at Arkansas was in 2021 when he guided the Razorbacks to a 9-4 finished. Arkansas was ranked No. 21 in the final AP Top 25 of the season. Ryan Silverfield aims to establish more consistent success in Fayetteville.

“This is a state not built on shortcuts or flash. It is built on early mornings, people that don’t make excuses and communities that fight for each other,” Silverfield said at his introductory press conference. “From Frank Broyles’ national championship team to the 1964 squad that set the standard, from Darren McFadden electrifying fans to Woo Pig Sooie throughout the Ozarks.

“This program is built on pride, resilience and toughness, and it’s time to bring it all back. … How do we earn it? How do we win an SEC championship, or championships? How do we win a national title? We have to earn it. We have to empty the tank. We have to attack the work.”

To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire. The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.

Russell Westbrook's wife shares scary email from fan: 'I hope you die in a car crash' originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A troubling situation involving Russell Westbrook and his family is bringing renewed attention to how quickly fan frustration can cross the line.

Death threats over a basketball game? Nina Westbrook is calling out the "worst in people" after receiving a horrific email following the Kings-Magic game. Lines are being crossed that have nothing to do with the court.

Read More #OnTheGriohttps://t.co/J0X5PRJVra

— theGrio.com (@theGrio) February 21, 2026

According to The New York Post, after the Sacramento Kings’ 131-94 loss to the Orlando Magic, Westbrook’s wife, Nina, shared a threatening email she received from a fan reacting to the game. She posted the message to her Instagram Stories, making clear that this kind of behavior is not new for their family.

MORE: Angel Reese serves First Lady teas in fitted Versace

The email, sent with the subject line “F–k you,” included direct insults aimed at Westbrook’s performance and escalated into a violent threat. “Your piece of f–kn s–t husband sucks so f–kn bad can’t even get 10 points is pathetic,” the message read. It ended with, “I hope you both die in a car crash dumb bitch.”

Nina said the message reflects a larger issue that is growing across the league. “The negative effects of sports betting. Brings out the worst in ppl,” she wrote, suggesting that increased gambling tied to games is fueling more aggressive fan behavior.

Westbrook finished the loss with five points, shooting 2-of-8 from the field and 1-of-6 from beyond the arc. The veteran guard is in his first season with Sacramento after signing a one-year deal ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.

While the performance drew criticism, Nina emphasized that the harassment goes beyond normal sports discourse. She noted that messages like this have become “routine” for their family and said she felt compelled to speak out.

“I’m sharing this now because I’m growing increasingly concerned for athletes,” she explained. “It’s something my husband and I consider routine.” She added that the behavior is part of a broader pattern tied to gambling, calling it “one of the early results of amped up sports betting.”

MORE: Ciara fans notice her classic '1,2 Step' has been remixed for this strange commercial

Nina, a licensed marriage and family therapist, also addressed the psychological side of the issue. “Gambling is a highly addictive behavior, and people should understand the risks associated with it,” she said, warning about its potential impact on individuals and families.

Former Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Bradley Bozeman has officially announced his retirement from the NFL, per an announcement on social media.

A former sixth round pick in the 2018 NFL draft, Bozeman played eight seasons in the league from 2018-25 between three different teams - the Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Chargers. Bozeman played in 129 career NFL games over those eight seasons, 110 of which he started.

Most recently, Bozeman appeared in 16 games for the Chargers during the 2025 season, starting every game for Los Angeles at center.

The offensive lineman originally came to Alabama as a member of the Crimson Tide's 2013 recruiting class out of in-state Handley High School. Bozeman went on to spent five seasons in Tuscaloosa headlined by starting at center for the Crimson Tide during the 2016 and 2017 seasons as a redshirt junior and redshirt senior, respectively, and was a member of Alabama's national championship teams in both 2015 and 2017.

Long-time NFL C Bradley Bozeman announced his retirement on IG. pic.twitter.com/DtkDFdgYCl

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 23, 2026

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

This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Former Alabama football lineman Bradley Bozeman retires from NFL

Sean Strickland takes umbrage with the idea of Khamzat Chimaev at light heavyweight.

UFC middleweight champion Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC), who claimed his belt by dominating Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 in August, has been chasing a fight with light heavyweight Alex Pereira (13-3 MMA, 10-2 UFC) ever since.

Former middleweight champion Strickland (30-7 MMA, 17-7 UFC) re-positioned himself in title contention after he finished Anthony Hernandez in the UFC Fight Night 267 headliner on Saturday. He called out Chimaev, and hopes the champion fights him instead of moving up.

"Guy's just a clown," Strickland told Full Send MMA of Chimaev. "You want to talk about a clown? You fought once in the middleweight division and you're moving up to fight an easier fight? And that's what he's doing, he's moving up to fight an easier fight. 205 division is soft as f*ck right now.

"So he's like, 'I'm going to go fight Jiri (Prochazka). You're picking a really easy path. You're not a double-champ. You've won a belt once. If the UFC grants that request, it would be a f*cking clown show, and I hope they don't. I hope the UFC tells him to go f*ck himself. That's the right thing to do. He doesn't deserve it."

Fortunately for Strickland, UFC CEO Dana White was also dismissive of the idea of Chimaev at light heavyweight, and wants to see him defend his title first.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Sean Strickland: Khamzat Chimaev doesn't deserve 205-pound title shot

Indiana men’s basketball made a front office move on Monday.

Ryan Carr, an Indiana graduate who doubled as a manager for the men’s basketball program before a lengthy career with the Indiana Pacers, is the program’s new Executive Director of Basketball, per an official release. He most recently worked as the Pacers’ Senior Vice President of Player Personnel after rising through the ranks through two decades after his hiring as a scout in 2003. He worked as Director of Scouting from 2009-18. The Pacers have been one of the most consistently successful organizations in the NBA during his tenure with two consecutive appearances in the Eastern Conference Finals in the past two seasons, including an NBA Finals appearance in the latter.

Carr’s role with Indiana will focus on roster building and will report directly to head coach Darian DeVries. Indiana is facing a critical offseason as the Hoosiers look to replace the entirety of their starting lineup with three freshmen signed in the class of 2026.

As the Winter Olympics ceremony closes out the Olympic Games, gold has been presented countless times in recent weeks. While there was no football played in Milan Cortina, it seems Munich wanted to take part in the fun. In perfect timing, it appears as though Bayern Munich will be going with a gold design for their home shirts for the 2026/27 season.

Footy Headlines has leaked Bayern Munich’s home kit for next season and it is eerily similar to the Bavarian’s home shirt from the 2012/13 season. While the kit is fairly clean and simple, the gold band design is the perfect accent for Bayern.

This shirt brings back instant nostalgia and will give fans memories of Toni Kroos, Bastian Schweinsteiger, or Mario Mandžukić. A season that will be fondly remembered, topped off with the memorable finale with Bayern beating rivals Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final.

While the kit closely resembles the 2012/13 home shirt, it is not the most recent time that Bayern has donned gold on their shirts. Several times in recent years, Bayern has opted for gold, pairing it it with white for an away kit, or with black for a third kit.

It seems as though gold has become somewhat of a safe bet in terms of shirt sales, and Adidas is looking to cash in on the favorite theme. What are your thoughts on the leaks? Let us know in the comments!

With the draft process intensifying, the Vikings have already begun evaluating running back prospects, including a small-school breakout name who recently met with the team.

A player who could be on the team’s radar is running back Chris Mosley. The North Carolina Central alumnus reportedly met with the Vikings.

Draft reporter Justin Melo of SI.com revealed on social media that the Vikings’ brass chatted with Mosley at the HBCU Legacy Bowl that took place this past weekend. The Vikes were not alone, as he listed eight other franchises.

After three quiet campaigns at North Carolina Central, the runner broke out during the 2025 season. Mosley rushed 188 times for 1,020 yards and 8 touchdowns, resulting in an average of 5.4 yards. He also showed he can be a reliable pass-catcher, recording 30 receptions for 324 yards and 2 more scores.

Gerald J. Huggins II wrote this month about the draft hopeful on SI.com. “Mosley projects as an NFL camp/2nd-tier league starter who will be most impactful in a power-heavy running scheme that allows him to utilize his vision, patience, and toughness. His toughness as a runner and ability to consistently gain positive yardage give him upside to be an RB3 or 4 at the NFL level. He will need to refine his receiving ability and pass protection to be a more serviceable option.”

It would be far-fetched to expect a back from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, especially one that isn’t putting up prime Adrian Peterson numbers, to arrive in the NFL as an elite weapon. Still, there might be some hidden upside.

If the Vikings strike out on the top halfbacks in the Draft, adding one later in the three-day event or even as an undrafted rookie can’t be ruled out.

Aaron Jones, Minnesota’s RB1 in the last two seasons, is a potential cap casualty, given his expensive salary cap hit and the limited production due to his injury struggles and age-related declining explosiveness. He’s just coming off a season with the lowest yards-per-attempt in his career, with 4.2 and he missed five games with injuries. Jones still produced 548 rushing yards and found paydirt twice.

Of course, there’s also Jordan Mason, who shared the workload with the veteran. The trade acquisition from last offseason appeared in 16 games and delivered a solid yardage total of 758 with an average of 4.8 yards per carry. Crossing the goalline six times isn’t too shabby either.

Besides the top duo, the Vikings enter the offseason with pending free agents Ty Chandler and Zavier Scott. Chandler has not consistently earned a role on offense in his four seasons in the State of 10,000 Lakes. A departure seems likely. Scott showed enough promise to earn a spot on the offseason roster.

If Jones isn’t retained for a third season in purple, Mason would climb to the top spot until the franchise finds someone else in the Draft or free agency. Mosley is unlikely to be that guy; he’s more of an upside swing later in the Draft.

Pre-draft meetings like this are not always an indication of strong draft interest, but they do signal that a prospect is at least on the team’s evaluation radar. For smaller-school players like Mosley, events such as the HBCU Legacy Bowl and Combine interviews are often crucial.

The Vikings, in particular, have shown a willingness in recent years to explore under-the-radar prospects who can compete for depth roles and special teams snaps before potentially carving out a larger role on offense. Levi Drake Rodriguez, out of Texas A&M Commerce, comes to mind. He was drafted in the 7th round in 2024 and played a significant role on the defensive line in his sophomore season.

While a meeting does not guarantee draft interest, it does confirm that Mosley is firmly on Minnesota’s scouting radar. For a team potentially reshaping its backfield depth this offseason, identifying late-round or undrafted runners with upside could quietly become an important part of the Vikings’ draft strategy.

Editor’s Note: Information from PFF, Over The Cap, and Sports Reference helped with this article.

FC Barcelona’s offices saw some unexpected movement today as Deco, the club’s sporting director, sat down with Arturo Canales, Marcus Rashford’s agent. According to SPORT, the meeting was meant to lay the groundwork for negotiations with Manchester United ahead of the summer.

The discussions are still very much in the early stages, but it’s clear Barcelona don’t want to leave anything to chance. Deco is exploring how Rashford’s loan could turn into a permanent deal, while also testing the waters on the 30 million euro purchase option that United say is non-negotiable. Kostas Theoharides, a well-connected figure in English football who works in the same agency as Canales, was also reportedly present.

Rashford’s impact since arriving has been hard to ignore. Deco praised him publicly two weeks ago, saying: “We are very happy with him. It is not easy to come here. He is a player who has competed at a very high level, with enormous demands at a club like Manchester United. Then he spent six months at Aston Villa, where he did a very good job.

“In fact, Aston Villa, if they could, would have kept him; I know because I spoke with people there. But he only wanted to come to Barça, and that is very positive. We managed to secure a loan. The fact that he came here taking a pay cut to do it is a clear sign that he really wanted to come, and we are very happy with that. He is a player who contributes a lot to us.”

Deco also made it clear there’s no penalty if the purchase option isn’t exercised, though at this point that seems unlikely.

Still, the road to a permanent move is not 100% smooth. Manchester United are firm on the price, and Rashford’s wages are higher than what Barcelona would normally be willing to offer. Some reports suggest he would have to accept a pay cut to stay, following the path of others in the squad who have already adjusted their contracts.

Another complication: Barcelona’s attack is stacked. Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are absolute pillars of the team, other forwards are competing for minutes, and every decision affects the team’s dynamics. According to El Nacional, Rashford feels there might be a “hidden hand” behind the club’s hesitation, possibly linked to internal hierarchies. Still, Robert Lewandowski is not going to stay for much longer, given his age, and there is always room for a player who can play on the wing or through the middle and provide an attacking spark.

On the pitch, Rashford recently returned from a minor knee knock, although he did not feature against Levante.

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Last updated: Monday, February 23 at 6:00 p.m. ET.

⛳ Cognizant Classic: Key takeaways

• Best early bet: Nicolai Hojgaard to win (+2500) – Has case to be betting favorite with pair of Top 5s across past three events and elite ball-striking numbers.
  
  
• Best early value: Sam Ryder to win (+10000) – Two career Top 10s at PGA National and ranks third in this field in both true strokes gained on approaches and putting in 2026.
  
  
• Course: The Champion Course at PGA National Resort has water in play on 15 of 18 holes and is famous for the "Bear Trap" (holes 15-17).
  
  
• Weather: Early forecasts call for periodic rain and potential thunderstorms on Friday, plus windy playing conditions throughout the tournament.
  
  
• Expected cut: Standard PGA Tour rules apply for this full-field event. The Top 65 and ties will advance to the weekend. The cut line has hovered around +1 or +2 historically before dropping to -5 in 2025 due to soft conditions.

Cognizant Classic odds: favorites & full field

The Cognizant Classic runs February 26 to March 1 at the Champion Course. Below are the latest outright odds, followed by the picks and market-by-market best bets we like this week.

Golfer
Shane Lowry	+1600
Ryan Gerard	+1600
Nicolai Hojgaard	+2000
Rasmus Hojgaard	+22200
Michael Thorbjornsen	+2500
Aaron Rai	+2800
Brooks Koepka	+2800
Keith Mitchell	+2800
Daniel Berger	+3300
Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen	+3500
Christiaan Bezuidenhout	+3500
Alex Smalley	+4000
Thorbjorn Olesen	+4000
Will Zalatoris	+4000
Max McGreevy	+4000
Davis Thompson	+4000
Haotong Li	+4000
Mac Meissner	+4500
Max Homa	+4500
Johnny Keefer	+5000

Odds as of Monday, February 23 at 6:00 p.m ET.

Check out the full Cognizant Classic field here.

Best bets card

• Outright: Nicolai Hojgaard (+2500): Has a strong case to be the betting favorite given his elite statistical profile and current form with two Top 5s in past three events.
  
  
• Outright: Sam Ryder (+10000): Two career Top 10s at PGA National and ranks third in this field in both true strokes gained on approaches and putting in 2026.

* Adam Scott (+2200) was one of my outright bets Monday morning, but he's withdrawn from the tournament.

Course breakdown: What wins at the Champion Course?

Notorious for being one of the toughest stops on the PGA Tour, the Champion Course requires precision because of its small landing areas and exposure to wind. Water is also in play on 15 of the 18 holes, which means danger lurks on nearly every shot.

The Tom Fazio design is a 7,223-yard Par 71 with three Par 5s, large greens surfaces featuring Tifeagle Bermudagrass, and the highlighted "Bear Trap," one of the most demanding three-hole stretches on the PGA Tour circuit. 

Talking about the "Bear Trap," course redesigner Jack Nicklaus said, "It should all be won or lost here. It’s not about length, it’s about precision. It’s about guts. It’s all about what do you have in your chest that you can finish those holes."

Wet conditions and overseeding the fairways and rough with rye grass helped scoring in 2025 because the track wasn't as firm or fast.

Still, players rarely have the luxury of having wedges in hand. The most common approach distances are between 125 and 200 yards, with PGA National a true second-shot track. Additionally, players often club down from driver on several tees to leave longer approaches into the large greens. 

• Water hazards in play on 15 of 18 holes
• Second-shot course emphasizing precision on approaches
• Notorious "Bear Trap" a true round wrecker
• Large Bermudagrass greens
• Bogey avoidance critical to success

Players to watch

• Shane Lowry: On a 2nd-T5-T4-T11 heater at the Champions Course with true strokes gained on approaches in all four trips.
  
  
• Keith Mitchell: The 2019 winner also carded T9 results in 2022 and 2024. He’s also never lost true strokes putting in seven trips to the track.
  
  
• Brooks Koepka: Putter has ruined excellent ball-striking in consecutive events, and the Florida native finished T2 here in 2019.

Key stats & player profiles to target

• True strokes gained tee-to-green
• Bogey avoidance
• Scrambling percentage and true strokes gained around-the-green
• Approaches from 150-175 and 175-200 yards
• Total driving
• Birdie or better percentage

Players to watch

• Nicolai Hojgaard: Sixth in this field in true strokes gained tee-to-green across his past six events, while ranking first in bogey avoidance and fifth in adjusting scoring average to start the PGA Tour season.
  
  
• Ryan Gerard: Ranks 10th in both bogey avoidance and adjusted scoring average this PGA Tour season, while also pacing this field in true strokes gained total.

Outright picks: winners to bet

Pick 1: Nicolai Hojgaard to win (+2500)

Nicolai Hojgaard is sixth in this field in true strokes gained tee-to-green across his past six tournaments, while ranking first in bogey avoidance and fifth in adjusting scoring average to start the 2026 PGA Tour season.

• Course Fit: Third trip to the track with a T18 in 2025
• Recent Form: Pair of Top 5s in past three events
• Market Value: Has a case to be the betting favorite

Risk: Still chasing down first PGA Tour win.

Pick 2: Sam Ryder to win (+10000)

Sam Ryder is still searching for his first PGA Tour win, and this watered-down field serves a potential breakout spot given his course history and ranks of third in this field in both true strokes gained on approaches and putting to start the 2026 PGA Tour season

• Course Fit: Pair of Top 10s at PGA National
• Recent Form: Elite approach game and putting hasn’t translated to top finishes
• Market Value: Long odds considering this is a watered-down field

Risk: Ryder has never won on the PGA Tour.

* Adam Scott to win (+2200) was an early pick Monday morning, but he has withdrawn from the tournament.

Odds movement & market notes

With the tournament bookended by Signature Events, and the two of the three top betting favorites withdrawing on Monday, there potential for significant moves in the Cognizant odds remains this week. Shane Lowry has the shortest odds to win the tournament at +1600 at BetMGM following Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrawing.

The field at PGA National is solid, but it now also lacks even more of the PGA Tour's best players. A long shot of +10000 odds or higher has also won three of the past four years, and interestingly, defending champion Joe Highsmith is +20000 to win at BetMGM to open the week. 

Additionally, 2024 champ Austin Eckroat is +7000.

I’m expecting to see Will Zalatoris be a popular target for bettors, and his odds to shorten from +4000. Other golfers with the potential to shorten are Ryan Gerard (+2200), and Michael Thorbjornsen (+2800).

How to watch & tee times (quick links)

How to watch:

• Thursday-Friday: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Golf Channel)
• Saturday: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Golf Channel); 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (NBC/Peacock)
• Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Golf Channel); 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (NBC/Peacock)

Tee times:

Round 1 and 2 tee times should be released on the official PGA Tour website on Tuesday, February 24.

Cognizant Classic betting FAQ

When is the 2026 Cognizant Classic?

The 2026 edition of the Cognizant Classic is Thursday, February 26, to Sunday, March 1.

Where is the 2026 Cognizant Classic being played?

The 2026 Cognizant Classic is being played at The PGA National Resort (The Champion Course) in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

What is the “Florida Swing?”

The Cognizant Classic serves as the traditional opening event and first stop of the "Florida Swing," a series of tournaments played on the state's challenging Bermudagrass courses.

Who is the 2026 Cognizant Classic favorite?

After three-time PGA Tour winner Ben Griffin (+1400) withdrew from the tournament on Monday, February 23, the betting favorite to win the 2026 Cognizant Classic is Shane Lowry (+1600).

What are the Cognizant Classic FRL markets?

First Round Leader (FRL) markets center around which player(s) will be in the lead following the first 18 holes of the tournament. 

How do Cognizant Classic matchup bets work?

When betting Cognizant Classic matchups, you're selecting which golfer will score better between the two players listed in that specific market. There are 18-hole, single-round matchups, in addition to tournament-long, 72-hole matchups.

What is the Cognizant Classic cut line?

Standard PGA Tour rules apply for this full-field event. The Top 65 and ties will advance to the weekend. The cut line has hovered around +1 or +2 historically before dropping to -5 in 2025 due to soft conditions.

Are Cognizant Classic odds the same across all sportsbooks?

You'll see slight variations in odds across sportsbooks for the Cognizant Classic; it's always good practice to check multiple sports betting sites for the best odds.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

WWE is back with this week’s edition of WWE Raw on Netflix as the company has its final build for Saturday’s Elimination Chamber PLE.

Monday’s episode will take place at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, and kick off at 8:00 PM ET. On tonight’s show, AJ Styles will have a tribute following his retirement match, and Brock Lesnar will appear.

Below, you can get caught up with all the WWE Raw results and highlights.

Quick WWE Raw Results (Feb. 23, 2026)

• A tribute to AJ Styles
• Brock Lesnar appears
• Elimination Chamber qualifying match: Raquel Rodriguez vs. IYO SKY vs. Kairi Sane
• Elimination Chamber qualifying match: Bronson Reed vs. Jey Uso vs. Original El Grande Americano
• Liv Morgan to make her WrestleMania decision
• Maxxine Dupri vs. Nattie

WWE Raw Highlights

Related Headlines

• AJ Styles Dispells AEW Rumors, Explains Why He Retired at the Royal Rumble
• New Rumor on Bad Bunny’s WWE Return: Is a Match at WrestleMania 42 the Plan?
• 6 Ideas for WWE Mystery Box Set to Open at Elimination Chamber, Including New Hardcore Title

NFL Combine invites by school: Alabama, Ohio State, LSU lead 2026 prospects class originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Every year, the NFL scouting combine is a chance for prospects to prove teams should take them in April's NFL draft.

As usual, the combine will feature more players coming from brand-name schools that played in the College Football Playoff last year. The SEC and Big 10 typically dominate these events, with many of best players coming from the same schools every year.

For the 2026 scouting combine, teams like Texas A&M, Alabama and Ohio State will have players all over the workouts. In fact, seven teams will have double-digit players at the combine in Indianapolis, producing a large portion of the players participating.

Here's a look at which schools will have the most players at the 2026 NFL scouting combine.

MORE: When is the NFL scouting combine?

NFL combine invites by school

Texas A&M

Invites:

• RB Le'Veon Moss
• WR KC Concepcion
• TE Nate Boerkircher
• OL Chase Bisontis
• OL Dametrious Crownover
• OL Ar'maj Reed-Adams
• OL Trey Zuhn III
• DL Cashius Howell
• DL Tyler Onyedim
• DL Albert Regis
• LB Scooby Williams
• LB Taurean York
• DB Will Lee III

The Aggies lead the way 13 players invited to the scouting combine, spread out pretty evenly between offense and defense. The three players to watch in this group are KC Concepcion, Chase Bisontis and Cashius Howell.

Alabama

Invites:

• QB Ty Simpson
• RB Jam Miller
• WR Germie Bernard
• TE Josh Cuevas
• OL Parker Brailsford
• OL Kadyn Proctor
• OL Jaeden Roberts
• DL Tim Keenan III
• DL LT Overton
• LB Justin Jefferson
• LB Deontae Lawson
• DB Domani Jackson

Alabama's Ty Simpson will be one of the most popular players at the combine, as the quarterback aims to secure a first-round reputation. Simpson is expected to participate in most workouts, while Germie Bernard, Kadyn Proctor and Tim Keenan III are also big names for the Crimson Tide

Ohio State

Invites:

• RB CJ Donaldson
• WR Carnell Tate
• TE Will Kacmarek
• TE Max Klare
• DL Caden Curry
• DL Kayden McDonald
• LB Arvell Reese
• LB Sonny Styles
• DB Caleb Downs
• DB Davison Igbinosun
• DB Lorenzo Styles Jr.

Ohio State's star-studded combine invite is the most talented of all teams representd. The list features five potential first-round picks including Carnell Tate, Kayden McDonald, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs.

LSU

Invites:

• QB Garrett Nussmeier
• WR Aaron Anderson
• WR Barion Brown
• WR Chris Hilton Jr.
• WR Zavion Thomas
• TE Bauer Sharp
• DL Patrick Payton
• DL Jack Pyburn
• LB Harold Perkins Jr.
• DB Mansoor Delane
• DB A.J. Haulcy

Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is facing a big opportunity in the combine to raise his stock ahead of the NFL draft. Besides Nussmeier, Harold Perkins Jr. and Mansoor Delane are also interesting names to watch.

Oklahoma

Invites:

• WR Deion Burks
• TE Jaren Kanak
• OL Febechi Nwaiwu
• DL Gracen Halton
• DL Marvin Jones Jr.
• DL R Mason Thomas
• DL Damonic Williams
• LB Kendal Daniels
• LB Owen Heinecke
• DB Robert Spears-Jennings

Oklahoma's combine group is very heavy on defense, featuring four defensive lineman, two linebackers and a defensive back. however, WR Deion Burks is one of the better Sooners in the draft, along with DL R Mason Thomas.

Miami

Invites:

• QB Carson Beck
• WR CJ Daniels
• OL Markel Bell
• OL Anez Cooper
• OL Francis Mauigoa
• DL Rueben Bain Jr.
• DL Akheem Mesidor
• LB Wesley Bissainthe
• DB Keionte Scott
• DB Jakobe Thomas

Miami went to the National Championship last season, showing how talented the roster was. Rueben Bain Jr. and Francis Mauigoa are potential top-10 picks, while Akheem Mesidor and Keionte Scott are also expected to be taken high.

Georgia

Invites:

• WR Dillon Bell
• WR Zachariah Branch
• WR Colbie Young
• TE Oscar Delp
• OL Monroe Freeling
• OL Micah Morris
• DL Christen Miller
• LB CJ Allen
• DB Daylen Everette
• P Brett Thorson

Georgia consistently produces large swaths of NFL talent, and this year is no different. Zachariah Branch is the biggest name available, but other Bulldogs worth noting are Monroe Freeling, Christen Miller and CJ Allen.

MORE: Tracking which players were franchise-tagged in 2026

Barcelona youngster Jofre Torrents is primed for a prolonged incoming spell on the treatment table in Catalunya’s capital.

This comes owing to an injury suffered this past weekend.

The name of left-back Jofre will of course be a familiar one to those of a Barcelona persuasion.

After bursting onto the first-team picture in Hansi Flick’s squad last summer, the Spanish starlet has since been a regular in matchday setups, giving rise to four senior appearances across the season to date.

Recent weeks have seen Jofre return to reserve team level in Catalunya, following the winter arrival of João Cancelo.

On Sunday, the 19-year-old therefore took to the pitch for Barca Atlètic, in a meeting with Alcoyano.

En route to an eventual 1-1 draw, though, Jofre was hauled off during the 2nd-half in evident distress, after picking up an ankle problem.

And as alluded to above, 24 hours on, the extent of this issue has been confirmed.

As per a statement across Barcelona’s website and social media platforms:

‘The medical tests carried out have shown that Jofre Torrents, a player from Barça Atlètic, has a syndesmosis injury to his left ankle. The estimated recovery time will be between 10 and 12 weeks.’

Conor Laird – GSFN

Celtic look set to pocket almost £1m when they face Rangers in the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup Quarter Final next month. The clubs have already agreed that Celtic fans will receive the traditional ‘Celtic End’ in Govan but ticket prices mean that the club will be walking away with a sizeable sum.

While supporters will be looking forward to the Free Broomloan being draped in Green and White again, Rangers have quietly confirmed ticket prices for the game with Adults asked to pay £53 with concessions just £10 less. This estimates a ticket revenue from the game of over £2.5m.

Celtic are estimated to take around 37% of the gate receipts as per SFA rules, meaning that the Hoops could take around £925,000 in ticket revenue from the game. As some online have pointed out, this is more than the prize pot for winning the Scottish Cup in May.

The game has an added dynamic as the Scottish Champions travel to Ibrox for a second time in a week, meeting in the league next Sunday. Supporters lucky enough to get a ticket had to pay £56 for the pleasure of watching the title contenders battle it out.

Celtic supporters will be eager to hear updates for the sale, especially given the rare chance to enjoy the full allocation again. Rangers made it clear that this was a cup arrangement and the allocations would revert to the previously agreed European style allocation.

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao will clash in a professional fight in September, 11 years after their first showdown, which was the most-lucrative boxing match in history.

On 19 September, Mayweather and Pacquiao will square off at the Sphere in Las Vegas, the same city where Mayweather outpointed his Filipino rival in 2015.

Their first fight still holds the records for most pay-per-view sales (4.6m) and highest gate ($72.2m) in boxing history.

American Mayweather will turn 48 on Tuesday, while Pacquiao is 47 years old. Each man is expected to compete in his own exhibition match this spring, before they share a ring live on Netflix.

Addressing the news in a press release, “Money” Mayweather kept it short and sweet: “I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result.”

Meanwhile, “Pac Man” said: “Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history. The fans have waited long enough – they deserve this rematch, and it will be even bigger now that it will be streamed live globally on Netflix.

“I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him. As always, I dedicate this fight to my fellow Filipinos around the world and to bringing glory to the Philippines.”

As Pacquiao mentioned, Mayweather has an unbeaten pro record of 50-0 (27 knockouts), with his last pro contest taking place in 2018, when he beat UFC star Conor McGregor via TKO. Since then, he has competed in a number of exhibition bouts.

Pacquiao’s pro record stands at 62-8-3 (39 KOs), and he remains the only eight-weight world champion in boxing history, while Mayweather is a former five-weight title holder.

Pacquiao actually returned to pro boxing last summer, fighting then-champion Mario Barrios to a draw in their WBC welterweight title bout. He had contested an exhibition bout in 2024, and his previous pro bout was a 2021 loss to Yordenis Ugas.

Pacquiao has also been heavily involved in politics in his home country, having served as a senator in the Philippines from 2016 until 2022, and having launched a failed presidential bid ahead of the 2022 election.

Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2 sees Netflix continue its venture into boxing, with the streaming platform having hosted several high-profile fights since 2024.

In November of that year, influencer Jake Paul beat a 58-year-old Mike Tyson, defeating the heavyweight legend on points. In 2025, a trio of events followed: an undisputed title fight between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, with the Irishwoman going 3-0 in their trilogy; another undisputed contest as Terence Crawford beat Canelo Alvarez; and a crossover bout between Paul and ex-heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, who stopped the American in six rounds.

Boxing greats Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather have agreed a professional rematch in September.

Pacquiao, 47, and Mayweather, 48, will fight at Sphere in Las Vegas on Saturday, 19 September, with the bout live on Netflix.

Former world champion Mayweather announced he would come out of retirement for a fourth time last week.

It will be the American's first professional fight since beating mixed martial arts fight Conor McGregor with a 10th-round technical knockout in 2017.

Eight-weight world champion Pacquiao retired from the sport to focus on his political career in 2021 but returned to the ring last July to fight WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, who retained his title after a draw.

Mayweather and Pacquiao first met in 2015, in what was billed as the 'Fight of the Century'.

It was Mayweather who emerged victorious, beating Pacquiao via a wide unanimous decision in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao said: "Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history.

"The fans have waited long enough. They deserve this rematch.

"I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him."

Mayweather said: "I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result."

More to follow.

• Boxing schedule and results 2026
• Watch every Born to Brawl episode

More boxing from the BBC

• Notifications, social media and more with BBC Sport

Following the release of the updated Rivals300 rankings for the Class of 2027, there has been some significant movement among the 5-star recruits this cycle.

Five-Star Plus+ cornerback John Meredith IIIstill sits as the No. 1 prospect in the country in the Rivals Industry Ranking. But behind him there are a pair of new players in the top five, headlined by Ohio State EDGE commit David Jacobs moving up from No. 10 all the way to No. 2.

Three new players moved into five-star status with 20 players currently tabbed as five-stars. And in the coming months, that will expand to the full 32 to match the first round of the NFL Draft. The full list of five-stars can be found below:

The Rivals Industry Ranking is a proprietary algorithm that compiles ratings and rankings from all three primary recruiting media services. The Rivals Industry Ranking is the industry’s most advanced, complete, and unbiased measurement. It equally weights the primary recruiting media services as follows: Rivals (33%), 247Sports (33%), and ESPN (33%). 

1. CB John Meredith III

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 2
247Sports: No. 6
ESPN: No. 3
School:North Crowley (Fort Worth, TX)
Scouting Summary: Long and dynamic corner prospect with elite length and top-end speed. Can cover any body type at receiver that lines up against him. 6-foot-2, 180-plus pounds with 33-inch arms. Ran sub-22 in the 200m and jumped over 43 feet in the triple jump during his sophomore track and field season. Has the speed and hip fluidity to cover more sudden receivers and the physicality and length to handle bigger-bodied options. Excellent ball skills and ability to attack the football in the air. Needs to continue developing footwork and instincts in man coverage but has all the physical and athletic tools coaches covet at the position.

2. EDGE David Jacobs – Ohio State

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 12
247Sports: No. 1
ESPN: No. 4
School:Blessed Trinity Catholic (Roswell, GA)
Scout’s Take: “Jacobs looks to have one of the highest floors of the group and has done enough to earn a fifth star for Rivals. Jacobs is one of the more physically-developed edge rusher prospects in the cycle, checking in at around 6-foot-5, 235 pounds. He had a great junior season at Roswell (Ga.) Blessed Trinity, racking up 24 sacks and 16 tackles for loss. The Buckeye pledge has a quick first step and quality bend. He also had back-to-back good showings at the Under Armour All-America Game and the Polynesian Bowl in January. While Jacobs lacks prototypical length for top prospects at the position (sub 32-inch arms), the level of polish and high floor make him one of the safer bets of the 2027 edge rusher group at this point.” — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

3. IOL Maxwell Hiller

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 8
247Sports: No. 4
ESPN: No. 7
School:Coatesville (Coatesville, PA)
Scouting Summary: “Hiller adds a fifth star from Rivals and ascends into the top 10 of the Rivals300. The 6-foot-5 305-pounder had dominant film as a junior at Coatesville (Pa.) High that is deserving of being ranked as the top interior offensive lineman in 2027 at this juncture. Hiller pairs his ready-to-play size with plus movement skills and elite play strength. He locks on defensive linemen and imposes his will, driving defenders out of the play with regularity. Hiller is a nasty, physical competitor who works to finish blocks with authority. The coordination and hand placement also stand out. Given his advanced skill set, Hiller could be equipped for an early impact at the college level.” — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

4. OT Mark Matthews

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 3
247Sports: No. 3
ESPN: No. 10
School:St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
Scouting Summary: High-upside offensive tackle prospect with top-notch physical and athletic tools for the position. Measured in at 6-foot-6 and around 280 pounds with plus length before his junior season. Added nearly 15 pounds to his frame early on in the offseason before his junior year. Has an ideal build for an offensive lineman with little bad weight and considerable mass in his lower body, helping to create a strong base. Tests as a strong athlete in the combine setting. New to football, first playing the sport as a freshman in high school. Took over the left tackle spot at South Florida powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas as a sophomore. A twitchy mover with outstanding movement skills. Already flashes an effortless kick slide despite playing offensive line for less than one year. Projects as a high-end pass protector. Played defensive line as a freshman before becoming an offensive lineman. Shows impressive competitiveness in the camp setting. Has a basketball background. Will need to continue adding play strength and working on his hand placement. Younger for the cycle, turning 16 years old in April of his sophomore year.

5. RB Kemon Spell – Georgia

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 11
247Sports: No. 7
ESPN: No. 8
School:McKeesport (McKeesport, PA)
Scouting Summary: All-encompassing running back that can win with power and elusiveness on inside and outside runs. 5-foot-9, 200-plus pounds with tremendous twitch and leg drive. Plays with low pad level and an excellent center of gravity in order to deliver blows and take them himself. Has breakaway speed in order to hit the homerun. Ran sub-11 in the 100m during his sophomore track season. Shows the ability to catch the ball away from his frame as a pass catcher. Has all the physical and athletic tools to make an immediate impact at the next level and beyond. Younger prospect for the cycle.

6. WR Monshun Sales

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 9
247Sports: No. 5
ESPN: No. 16
School:Lawrence North (Indianapolis, IN)
Scout’s Take: “Sales touts arguably the highest upside of any wide receiver prospect in the 2027 cycle. He’s a freaky athlete with sub-22.0 second speed in the 200 meters at 6-foot-4.5, 205 pounds. Sales is a vapor trail on Friday nights, showing the ability to take the top off defenses, by way of blistering man coverage on vertical routes. His ball skills have continued to improve, as he showed the ability to make adjustments and win in contested catch situations as a junior. We also like that Sales shows physicality at safety, working as a two-way player at Indianapolis Lawrence North.” — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

7. CB Joshua Dobson

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 7
247Sports: No. 12
ESPN: No. 5
School:William Amos Hough (Cornelius, NC)
Scouting Summary: Technically refined corner prospect with rare top-end speed and physical build. 6-foot-1, 180-plus pounds with over a 6-foot-5 wingspan. Excellent weight distribution throughout his frame. Can run with anyone on the field. Ran 10.78 in the 100m during his sophomore track season. Explosive and fluid athlete with tremendous change of direction. Very calm footwork and patience in coverage. Does an excellent job locating the football and playing through the receiver’s hands. Needs to continue developing physicality in run support, but is extremely advanced in cover ability.

8. DL Jalen Brewster – Texas Tech

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 1
247Sports: No. 17
ESPN: No. 1
School:Cedar Hill (Cedar Hill, TX)
Scouting Summary: Uber-athletic defensive line prospect with true game-wrecking ability. Measured in at around 6-foot-3, 300 pounds prior to his junior season. Tests as an elite athlete in the combine setting, easily cracking 5.0 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Carries that athleticism over to the field where he has flashes of dominance on Friday nights. Lines up all over the defensive line for Cedar Hill (Texas) while facing top competition. Dangerous pass rusher from any spot. Combines explosive get-off with the movement skills of a much smaller player, carrying elite testing numbers directly onto the field. Consistently collapses pockets and disrupts plays before they develop. Has legitimate game-wrecking moments on film. The quickness to dart into the backfield and the speed to hunt down ball carriers is eye-popping. May not possess premier length. Father was a third-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys. Tracking as the top defensive line prospect early on in the 2027 cycle with the upside to be an early NFL Draft pick.

9. WR Easton Royal – Texas

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 5
247Sports: No. 24
ESPN: No. 12
School:Brother Martin (New Orleans, LA)
Scouting Summary: The most dynamic pass-catcher early in the 2027 cycle and a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Measured at around 5-foot-11, 185 pounds prior to his junior season. One of the fastest top prospects in the cycle, running a scintillating 10.3-second mark in the 100 meters as a sophomore. Brings that elite speed to the gridiron—lethal on vertical routes, easily pulling away from defensive backs downfield. Tough to tackle in the open field and will take it the distance if he finds space at the second level. Shows natural shiftiness as a route-runner, giving him the ability to separate at every level. Among the more productive top wide receivers in the 2027 cycle as a junior. Can continue improving his ability to attack catches with his arms extended, but has shown an expanded catch radius with several highlight-reel grabs. One of the youngest top prospects in the class with a late July birthday prior to his freshman season of college football. Athleticism, budding polish, and big-play ability make him one of the top overall playmakers in the cycle with the potential to develop into a first-round NFL Draft pick.

10. OT Kennedy Brown

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 15
247Sports: No. 15
ESPN: No. 2
School:Kingwood (Houston, TX)
Scouting Summary: Explosive and long-armed offensive tackle prospect with rare reach, heavy hands, and the athletic ability to dominate both phases up front. Measured around 6-foot-3, 280 pounds prior to his junior season with a wingspan over 7 feet and 11-inch hands. Tested as a good athlete in the combine setting. Worked at right tackle as a sophomore before moving to left tackle as a junior. Shows excellent striking power, using his length and punch to stun defensive linemen at the point of attack. Moves easily to the second level and looks to finish blocks with effort and physicality. Shorter than the typical top tackle prospect but makes up for it with elite reach and functional strength. Had some lapses in pass protection on junior film after transitioning to the left side, but the athletic traits and power profile remain evident. Projects as one of the top offensive line prospects in the 2027 cycle.

11. QB Elijah Haven

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 96
247Sports: No. 2
ESPN: No. 6
School:Dunham School (Baton Rouge, LA)
The Skinny: “Haven logged visits back to Auburn and Alabama last month, and is hammering out dates to return to both contenders this spring. The same goes for Florida and Kentucky, as the Rivals Industry Ranking No. 1 passer moves closer and closer toward locking in his college decision. Alabama has been the team in pole position after consecutive game-day visits in October and November, and another needle-moving visit back to Tuscaloosa for junior day last month. Haven’s next few visits are expected to be the final stops before locking in his commitment.” — Sam Spiegelman, Rivals National Analyst

12. TE Ahmad Hudson

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 52
247Sports: No. 9
ESPN: No. 22
School:Ruston (Ruston, LA)
The Skinny: “Nebraska is setting the pace in the recruitment of Hudson since his last visit to Lincoln in November. Nebraska was in line to get Hudson back to campus for a basketball game before weather derailed travel plans. Texas A&M and LSU continue to chip away with Hudson, a legacy target for the Tigers. LSU is going to be a threat for Hudson until he signs and are making strides behind the scenes to close the gap here.” — Sam Spiegelman, Rivals National Analyst

13. OT Cooper Hackett – Oklahoma

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 6
247Sports: No. 28
ESPN: No. 27
School:Fort Gibson (Fort Gibson, OK)
Scouting Summary: Hyper-athletic offensive tackle prospect with rare natural movement skills and a frame that points to immense long-term upside as one of the highest-ceiling linemen early in the 2027 cycle. Measured around 6-foot-7, 260 pounds with elite length (arms over 34 inches) and big hands prior to his junior season. Has the frame to add significant mass once in a college strength program. Lines up at right tackle for his high school, where his athletic traits immediately stand out. Moves with rare fluidity for his size and plays with surprising power through his lower half, generating torque and leverage at the point of attack. Shows balance and body control that project well to the next level. Displays loose flexibility and consistently lowers his pads to handle shorter defenders. Plays with a physical edge and looks to finish blocks through the whistle. Further showcases his athleticism as a disruptive defensive end. Doubles as a talented basketball player on the high school and AAU circuit who can run the court and play above the rim. Will need to add considerable mass and adjust to stronger competition at the next level, which could delay early playing time. Possesses an outstanding developmental profile with the big frame, movement skills, and multi-sport coordination that give him the upside to develop into an early-round NFL Draft pick.

14. IOL Albert Simien

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 10
247Sports: No. 34
ESPN: No. 25
School:Sam Houston (Lake Charles, LA)
Scouting Summary: Dominant interior offensive line prospect whose combination of length, functional mobility, and balance makes him one of the top linemen in the 2027 cycle. Measured just under 6-foot-3 and around 270 pounds prior to his junior season with plus length, including 34-inch arms. Lines up at left tackle for his high school, where he consistently controls the line of scrimmage. Dominant run blocker who manipulates defenders with his length, strength, and coordination. Moves easily to the second level and maintains leverage to seal running lanes. Has outstanding lower body flexibility as a mover. Equally effective in pass protection with controlled feet and strong balance in his set. Rarely off-platform and plays with a calm, steady demeanor. Shows up as a better athlete on the field than he tests in combine settings. Does not overwhelm from a stature standpoint and is slightly shorter than ideal for a top interior prospect, but compensates with technique, consistency, and competitive toughness. Well-rounded game, positional versatility, and dominant film make him one of the safest offensive line prospects in the 2027 cycle.

15. EDGE Zyron Forstall

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 146
247Sports: No. 8
ESPN: No. 11
School:IMG Academy (Fla.)
Scouting Summary: Electric pass rusher who is already showing signs of dominance as a high school underclassman. Measured in at 6-foot-3.5, 235 pounds prior to his junior season. Registers as a strong athlete in the combine setting. An apex predator off the edge. Flashes excellent first-step quickness, knifing into the backfield with regularity. Considerable power at the point of attack. Sinks his hips and drives through offensive linemen. Lives behind the line of scrimmage, where he’s an emphatic, physical finisher. Has shown early signs of a pass rush skill set with an explosive spin move. Also lines up as an off-ball linebacker at times. Motor runs white hot. Stalks down ball carriers from sideline to sideline. Totaled nearly 30 tackles for loss and double-digit sacks as a sophomore. Has game-wrecking qualities, forcing fumbles at a high rate. Looks to be one of the top overall prospects in the 2027 cycle early on.

The most-purchased boxing match of all time is being run back as more than 11 years since Floyd Mayweather defeated Manny Pacquiao in their first encounter, the world will see them square off once again.

Streaming giant Netflix announced Monday that Mayweather and Pacquiao will square off in a professional rematch that headlines a Sept. 19 event at Sphere in Las Vegas. The announcement did not include key details such as number of rounds or the weight class in which the fight will be contested.

Mayweather defeated Pacquiao by unanimous decision in their 2015 "Fight of the Century" that drew 4.6 million pay-per-view buys.

Mayweather, 48, reportedly agreed to fight Mike Tyson in an exhibition bout in April and announced he'd return to professional competition thereafter. Sitting with a perfect 50-0 record, Mayweather has not competed as a pro since a July 2017 win over Conor McGregor. He's fought in various exhibition fights since, however, against the likes of Logan Paul, John Gotti III and others.

Pacquiao, 47, holds a 62-8-3 record and has been a bit more active in recent years. He's 1-1-1 in his past three professional boxing bouts. The most recent was a majority draw vs. Mario Barrios in July 2025. He's also competed in custom rules bouts in Japan.

FLOYD MAYWEATHER vs. MANNY PACQUIAO

Two of the greatest icons in boxing history will meet again in the first-ever professional boxing match at Sphere in Las Vegas.

Saturday September 19
LIVE globally only on Netflix#MayPac2pic.twitter.com/3i5FtXBzgX

— Netflix (@netflix) February 23, 2026

Unless another combat sports event pops up there before September, Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 will mark just the second at Sphere – and the first boxing card. In September 2024, the UFC held its Noche UFC event at Sphere.

Meanwhile, Netflix continues to bolster its combat sports offerings, with Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov and Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano also on the 2026 schedule.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Netflix announces Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquaio rematch

Everton vs. Man United score, talking points, highlights as Carrick's men aim to bolster Premier League top-four hopes originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

JUMP TO:

• Everton vs. Man United score
• Everton vs. Man United key moments, updates
• Everton vs. Man United team news
• Everton vs. Man United upcoming fixtures

HILL DICKINSON STADIUM, LIVERPOOL — Manchester United can open up a three-point gap in fourth place with victory over Everton on Monday night.

Michael Carrick lost his 100% record as Red Devils boss last time out, when Benjamin Sesko's dramatic injury-time equaliser salvaged a draw at West Ham.

United are fifth on 45 points, level with Chelsea above them and Liverpool below them.

Everton won the reverse fixture 1-0 at Old Trafford despite having Idrissa Gueye sent off for an on-field confrontation with team-mate Michael Keane.

Both men start tonight, with Everton right-back Jake O'Brien serving a suspension following his red card against Bournemouth.

Leny Yoro comes into the United defence in place of Lisandro Martinez, who is sidelined by a minor calf injury.

MORE: Can Man United win the Premier League? Title challenge under Michael Carrick sounds crazy — but possible

Everton vs. Man United final score

Location: Hill Dickinson Stadium (Liverpool, UK)
Referee: Darren England

Keep track of every game and every goal via SN's live Premier League scoreboard.

Starting lineups:

Everton (4-2-3-1 right to left): 1. Jordan Pickford (GK) – 37. James Garner, 5. Michael Keane, 6. James Tarkowski, 32. Jarrad Branthwaite – 42. Tim Iroegbunam, 27. Idrissa Gueye – 45. Harrison Armstrong, 22. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, 10. Iliman Ndiaye – 11. Thierno Barry

Man United (4-2-3-1 right to left): 31. Senne Lammens — 2. Diogo Dalot, 5. Harry Maguire, 15. Leny Yoro, 23. Luke Shaw — 18. Casemiro, 37. Kobbie Mainoo — 16. Amad Diallo (30. Benjamin Sesko), 8. Bruno Fernandes, 10. Matheus Cunha — 19. Bryan Mbeumo

Everton vs. Man United key moments

51 mins: An opportunity for Mbeumo. Mainoo does well to curl a teasing ball into the Everton box. It spins off Tarkowski's shin and Mbeumo smashes over on the volley. He was off balance but that was maybe a better chance than he made it look.

46 mins: Everton have their best chance of the night so far within a minute of the restart. Dewsbury-Hall lays it off to Armstrong, who had the space and time to find a better finish than the one Lammens held onto unfussily.

4 mins: Tarkowski off the line! Cunha has a shot blocked and Amad is first to the rebound. Pickford takes some of the pace off it but it's trickling in before his centre-back hacks clear.

Everton vs. Man United reaction

Reaction from Michael Carrick and David Moyes will appear here after the match.

Everton vs. Man United team news

Everton team news

• David Moyes had all but two first-team players to choose from,with Jack Grealish injured and Jake O'Brien suspended after his red card vs. Bournemouth. 
• Former United youngster James Garner moved from midfield to right-back, with Jarred Branthwaite shifting across to left-back and Vitalii Mykolenko benched. Centre-back Michael Keane and central midfielder Tim Iroegbunam come into the lineup.

Man United team news

• It is a similar situation for Michael Carrick with Patrick Dorgu and Matthijs de Ligt his only absentees. 
• Mason Mount is back in the squad but will have to make do with a spot on the bench. 
• Benjamin Sesko could start in place of Matheus Cunha after his late heroics against West Ham and Fulham in recent weeks. 

Everton vs. Man United upcoming schedules

Everton upcoming fixtures

Man United upcoming fixtures

Liverpool's centre-back headache

Liverpool wanted Schlotterbeck back at the end of 2025 and almost certainly still have him on their shortlist for the summer. The German's contract expires in 2027, with Dortmund essentially forced into selling him before that.

Now, if Real Madrid are to sign Schlotterbeck, Liverpool must look elsewhere. But that could also simply be at home - Ibrahima Konate, after all, is out of contract this summer.

But his options are drying up. Real Madrid won't sign him, it seems, while Bayern Munich have re-signed Dayot Upamecano. Marc Guehi's move to Manchester City rules them out, too.

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao will face each other on 19 September in Las Vegas in a rematch of one of the biggest fights in boxing history.

Their first fight, in 2015, was generally seen as a tame affair with both fighters past their peaks. September’s bout, which will be streamed live on Netflix, is likely to be of a lower quality. Mayweather and Pacquiao will be 49 and 47 respectively when they fight. Mayweather’s last professional fight, which preserved his unbeaten record, came in 2017, although that was a glorified exhibition against UFC star Connor McGregor. Pacquiao fought for the WBC welterweight championship last year, but is far from the force he was in his prime.

Nevertheless, both fighters built up the rivalry on Monday.

“Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history,” said Pacquiao. “The fans have waited long enough – they deserve this rematch, and it will be even bigger now that it will be streamed live globally on Netflix. I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him. As always, I dedicate this fight to my fellow Filipinos around the world and to bringing glory to the Philippines.”

Mayweather, who won their fight in 2015 on points, was more direct. “I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result,” he said.

Whatever the quality of the fight, it will earn the pair tens of millions of dollars. Pacquiao is a national hero in the Philippines while Mayweather forged a lucrative career from his boxing excellence and his willingness to play the villain.

Netflix has put significant resources into live sports in recent years. Its broadcast of Jake Paul v Mike Tyson in 2024 attracted 108 million live global viewers, making it the most-streamed sporting event in history. It has also shown NFL games on Christmas Day and provided live coverage of climber Alex Honnold scaling a Taipei skyscraper last month.

Some fans choose their team, and some fans are chosen by their team. Which was it for you? Today, we want to hear your story from you: How you became a fan of the Texans.

When did you first become a fan? Were you born into it? Was there a specific game or season that pulled you in? What’s the earliest moment you remember as a fan? 

Let’s hear your story.

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao are running it back over a decade after their first encounter when the boxers meet in a rematch scheduled on Sept. 19 at the Sphere in Las Vegas, with the fight airing live on Netflix.

Netflix officially announced the rematch on Monday following an initial report from Ring Magazine. This is the first boxing match held at the Sphere after UFC 306 took place there in 2024.

Widely recognized as two of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers in recent history, Mayweather and Pacquiao seemed like they were on a collision course for years, but never actually met until they finally clashed in 2015. On that night, Mayweather largely dominated the 12-round fight before earning a unanimous decision win.

Now, over 10 years later, the rivals are running it back after Mayweather recently announced plans to return from retirement for another professional fight following a planned exhibition against Mike Tyson that’s also expected in 2026.

Mayweather, 48, hasn’t fought professionally since he finished UFC superstar Conor McGregor in 2017.

As for Pacquiao, he also returned from a long absence when he booked a fight against Mario Barrios this past July. The fight ultimately went to a draw, although many believe that Pacquiao deserved the decision in the 12-round title fight.

Pacquiao has his own exhibition scheduled against Ruslan Provodnikov at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas on April 18.

Following that fight, Pacquiao shifts gears to prepare for the rematch against Mayweather, with the bout airing live on Netflix after their initial matchup became the biggest pay-per-view in history with over 4.4 million buys

“Earlier in my career, I spent weeks in Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao’s training camps in Las Vegas and the Philippines,” Gabe Spitzer, Vice President of Sports at Netflix, said in a press release. “It was undeniable that they were the two hardest workers in boxing, and their wins and accolades were a product of that.

“Bringing this rematch to Netflix is a massive ‘full circle’ moment. We’re thrilled to combine their storied rivalry with the immersive technology of Sphere to deliver a landmark sporting event to our members worldwide.”

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 is the latest endeavor for Netflix in combat sports after previously hosting fights such as Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson, Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford, and the upcoming MMA fight between former UFC champion Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano, which takes place in May.

Heat injury report vs. Bucks: Are Tyler Herro, Norman Powell playing? originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Heat (31-27) are going for their fourth win in a row on Tuesday as they take on the Milwaukee Bucks (24-31).

Miami has faced injuries all season long, and this same momentum has followed them into their final regular-season push following the All-Star break.

In a list that includes nine players, the Miami Heat provided updates to Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, and others.

Tyler Herro (ribs) and Norman Powell (back) among nine listed on Heat injury report vs. Bucks

According to the NBA's injury report, Tyler Herro (ribs), Norman Powell (back), Andrew Wiggins (toe), Pelle Larsson (finger), Dru Smith (calf), and Keshad Johnson (knee) are all listed as available and will play for the Heat on Tuesday.

Herro and Powell have been on minutes restrictions in the games following the All-Star break. Both of them could see a slight increase in playing time moving forward.

Nikola Jovic (back) is listed as doubtful, and Davion Mitchell (illness) is questionable for the contest, but both players travelled with the team with hopes to play, Heat insider Anthony Chiang mentioned.

As for the Bucks, they will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf), Alex Antetokounmpo (G League), and Taurean Prince (neck).

Miami is half a game behind the Philadelphia 76ers for the final spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs. 

More Heat news:

• Heat forward Andrew Wiggins celebrates the achievement of scoring 15,000 career points

• Erik Spoelstra is confident in the Miami Heat's depth playing a big part in a rocky season

• Heat sign undrafted rookie to three-year NBA deal

• Miami Heat big man Kel'el Ware honored to be part of NBA All-Star Weekend as a sophomore

Get ready for another Fight of the Century, because Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. are set for a rematch this September — airing live on Netflix.

The athletes will hold the first-ever boxing match at the Sphere in Las Vegas on Sept. 19, 11 years after their May 2015 fight. At the time, Mayweather won via unanimous decision in what became the then-highest-grossing fight in boxing history.

“Earlier in my career, I spent weeks in Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao’s training camps in Las Vegas and the Philippines,” Netflix vice president of Sports Gabe Spitzer told Tudum on Monday. “It was undeniable that they were the two hardest workers in boxing, and their wins and accolades were a product of that. Bringing this rematch to Netflix is a massive ‘full circle’ moment. We’re thrilled to combine their storied rivalry with the immersive technology of Sphere to deliver a landmark sporting event to our members worldwide.”

The live sporting event will be produced by EverWonder Studio, Hidden Empire and Limitless X Holdings, with promotion from Manny Pacquiao Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and CSI Sports/Fight Sports.

The news comes a week after Netflix set another high-profile fight between MMA stars Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano for May 16.

Mayweather Jr. vs. Pacquiao airs live Sept. 19 on Netflix.

The post Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Set September Rematch at Netflix appeared first on TheWrap.

Some fans choose their team, and some fans are chosen by their team. Which was it for you? Today, we want to hear your story from you: How you became a fan of the Bucs.

When did you first become a fan? Were you born into it? Was there a specific game or season that pulled you in? What’s the earliest moment you remember as a fan? 

Let’s hear your story.

Anticipating a crowded leaderboard for the Athletics' home run crown originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Last season, home runs became a common occurrence for the Athletics. They had no trouble barreling up baseballs and putting them well over the fences. 

They finished the 2025 regular season with 219 homers, which ranked them seventh across MLB. Of the six teams ahead of them last season, four of them went on to become postseason clubs. 

So, with a returning core, fans should feel good about where their club stands. They could be in store for another big year offensively.

MORE: MLB analyst puts the spotlight on the Athletics' young arm to step up

Anticipating a crowded leaderboard for the Athletics' home run crown

Last year, the A's had five different players with 20 or more home runs. Lawrence Butler had 21, Tyler Soderstrom had 25, Brent Rooker had 30, Shea Langeliers had 31, and Nick Kurtz led the team with 36. 

Kurtz did not make his debut until late April, so those numbers from him could have been even bigger if he made the Opening Day roster. 

Kurtz would go on to win the AL Rookie of the Year award and is looking to carry that momentum into the 2026 season. However, it may be tough for him to lead the club in homers again, per Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter. 

"It took just 117 games for Nick Kurtz to launch 36 home runs en route to AL Rookie of the Year honors last season, and with elite batted-ball metrics across the board, that dizzying pace could be sustainable across a full 162-game slate. Shea Langeliers and Brent Rooker also reached 30 homers in 2025, so expect a compelling in-house leaderboard."

It could be a three-man race between Kurtz, Rooker, and Langeliers this year. And if all three can keep the pressure on one another to keep up, the A's might surprise plenty if they can get more consistent on the pitching side of things.

More MLB news:

• MLB analyst makes the case for Kerry Carpenter to carry Detroit offensively
• New walls and goals for Royals' star Bobby Witt Jr. in Kansas City
• Munetaka Murakami and Colson Montgomery set to duel for South Side home run crown
• MLB analyst tags Cubs' reliever as club's projected breakout arm
• The blueprint for Astros' Mike Burrows to become a rotation mainstay

Florida basketball (21-6, 12-2) won its seventh straight SEC game against Ole Miss on Saturday, leading to a two-spot jump to No. 7 on NET rankings.

Florida started off at No. 33 in the initial NET rankings at the end of November and slowly climbed into the top 10 by early February. The Gators peaked at No. 7 two weeks ago but dipped back to No. 9 during the easy part of the SEC schedule. However, piling up wins has led to a return to Florida's season-high position.

During the 7-game win streak, Florida has won all but one contest (vs. Kentucky) by double digits, averaging a 21.6-point margin of victory. The good news is that most of the wins have come against quality opponents, and other teams have continued to climb up the NET, making the wins stronger.

The Gators are the only SEC team ranked inside the top 15, with Vanderbilt being the next closest at No. 16. Tennessee is just behind at No. 17, while Arkansas and Alabama control the Nos. 20 and 21 spots, respectively.

Florida has three remaining regular-season games against Quadrant 1 teams, including two in the upcoming week, and one Quadrant 3 matchup.

Breaking down Florida’s wins by Quadrant

Before going into Florida’s resume, it’s important to understand how the quadrants are divided. Where a game is played has as much to do with the quadrant as the quality of the opponent. As the rankings change, so does the quality of the wins.

• Quadrant 1: Home 1-30, Neutral 1-50, Away 1-75
• Quadrant 2: Home 31-75, Neutral 51-100, Away 76-135
• Quadrant 3: Home 76-160, Neutral 101-200, Away 135-240
• Quadrant 4: Home 161-353, Neutral 201-353, Away 241-353

Quadrant 1 Games

Florida is 8-5 in Quadrant 1 games.

Non-conference losses came against No. 2 Duke, No. 3 Arizona and No. 10 UConn. All three are considered very good losses. The Gators' non-conference Q1 win came against No. 35 Miami at a neutral site (Jacksonville), and UF lost to No. 47 TCU. The Hurricanes are firmly in Quadrant 1, while the Horned Frogs recently moved back within the top-50 threshold.

Several of Florida's SEC games have come against Q1 opponents. The Missouri (No. 61) loss on the road remains in Quadrant 1, which is good for the Gators, but Auburn is just outside of the top 30, dropping out of Q1 territory.

The Q1 conference wins came against No. 16 Vanderbilt (road), No. 17 Tennessee (home), No. 21 Alabama (home), No. 34 Georgia (road), No. 42 Texas A&M (road) and No. 71 Oklahoma (road). The most recent came against No. 29 Kentucky at home, which is just within the threshold.

Quadrant 2 Games

In Quadrant 2 games, Florida is 7-1, with wins over No. 34 Georgia, No. 67 LSU — both at home. The Gators beat No. 91 Ole Miss and No. 105 South Carolina during conference play.

The other three Q2 wins came during the non-conference schedule against No. 74 Florida State, No. 78 Providence and No. 87 George Washington, both at a neutral site. The Seminoles recently jumped into Quadrant 2 territory but are right near the threshold.

Florida's lone Quadrant 2 losses came against No. 33 Auburn. The Tigers continue to drift further from returning to Q1 territory.

Quadrant 3 and 4 games

The only Quadrant 3 game Florida played came at home against No. 105 South Carolina. Florida won that by 47 points.

Florida went 5-0 against Q4 teams, beating No. 180 Merrimack, No. 217 Colgate, No. 242 Dartmouth, No. 337 North Florida and No. 335 Saint Francis by an average of 33.6 points. Merrimack is the only one near the Quadrant 3 threshold of No. 160.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida basketball NET ratings after winning at South Carolina

Rams announce fun Robert Woods news a few days after retirement originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Rams have had some great players come through their organization during Sean McVay's time with the team, especially at wide receiver.

Puka Nacua is currently dominating alongside Davante Adams, while Cooper Kupp was once a superstar for the Rams. Also previously with the team was Robert Woods. He played five years in Los Angeles and was great.

Woods recently announced his retirement, as the 33-year-old won't suit up anymore in the NFL. But that doesn't mean he's done with the league. The Rams announced some very fun news: Bobby Trees is coming back to the Rams, this time, as a coach.

Rams announce fun Robert Woods coaching news

In the Rams' announced coaching staff for the 2026 season, under the offensive staff, Woods was listed as the "Assistant WRs" coach.

Announcing our 2026 Coaching Staff! 📋 pic.twitter.com/sIOVqbIsNX

— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) February 23, 2026

Among the other notable staff additions for the 2026 season are new assistant head coach Kliff Kingsbury and former Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders coach Brian Johnson as a Senior Offensive Assistant to the defense.

It's a new-look staff after having multiple coaches raided this offseason. But, for the Rams, it's shaping up to be a great one. Nate Scheelhaase stayed despite getting head coaching interest and is the new offensive coordinator.

But of the new hires, Woods is by far the most interesting. He didn't retire long ago, but didn't stay away from the NFL for long.

More: Rams' Super Bowl champion WR with two 90-catch seasons announces retirement from NFL

He's now helping the coaching staff as an assistant wide receivers coach. The longtime Rams wide receiver knows a thing or two about good wide receiver play.

Across five seasons and 68 games, Woods caught 367 passes for 4,626 yards and 23 touchdowns. He didn't make a Pro Bowl or an All-Pro, and wasn't healthy during the Super Bowl run, but Woods was one of the staples of the Rams' offense for years.

After a year with the Tennessee Titans and two with the Houston Texans, Woods tried out with the Pittsburgh Steelers but didn't make the roster or play in 2025.

He spent the first four years of his NFL career after being selected 41st overall with the Buffalo Bills. He joined the Rams afterwards, and now, nine years later, is joining the Rams again, this time as a coach.

More Rams news:

• Rams' list of 2026 NFL draft picks, free agents and cap space for offseason after loss to Seahawks
• Matthew Stafford is 3 years older than his new Rams offensive coordinator
• Rams urged to release Super Bowl champion CB despite major need at corner
• Rams named best fit for speedy free agent Saints cornerback
• Rams trade proposal sends first-round pick to Chiefs for All-Pro CB for 'all-in' deal
• Rams could snap 20-year NFL Draft streak by taking one position in 1st round

The Detroit Lions officially announced their 2026 coaching staff on Monday, confirming multiple reported hires in the process.

The Lions previously announced the hiring of new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, who comes over after three years as the Arizona Cardinals' OC and who replaces John Morton.

Detroit's release confirmed that former Giants offensive coordinator and interim head coach Mike Kafka is joining the Lions as its pass game coordinator and that Dan Skipper is joining as an offensive assistant. Kafka was previously reported to be joining in a "high-ranking offensive staff role."

The Lions revealed that Steve Oliver is taking over as tight ends coach after previously serving as assistant offensive line coach.

Defensively, safeties coach Jim O'Neil added the assistant head coach title. Here's the Detroit Lions' full 2026 coaching staff:

Detroit Lions 2026 coaching staff

Lions announce the 2026 coaching staff pic.twitter.com/TEIjIzcpM4

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) February 23, 2026

• Head coach: Dan Campbell
• Offensive coordinator: Drew Petzing
• Defensive coordinator: Kelvin Sheppard
• Special teams coordinator: Dave Fipp
• Associate head coach / Wide receivers: Scottie Montgomery
• Assistant head coach / safeties: Jim O'Neil
• Quarterbacks: Mark Brunell
• Running backs: Tashard Choice
• Run game coordinator / Offensive line: Hank Fraley
• Assistant wide receivers: Bruce Gradkowski
• Pass game coordinator: Mike Kafka
• Offensive quality control: Justin Mesa
• Tight ends: Steve Oliver
• Pass game specialist: David Shaw
• Offensive assistant: Dan Skipper
• Offensive assistant: Marques Tuiasosopo
• Defensive assistant: Caleb Collins
• Senior defensive assistant / Outside linebackers: David Corrao
• Linebackers: Shaun Dion Hamilton
• Defensive assistant: August Mangin
• Run game coordinator / Defensive line: Kacy Rodgers
• WCF minority coaching assistant / Defensive quality control: Dre Thompson
• Passing game coordinator / Defensive backs: Deshea Townsend
• Assistant special teams: Jett Modkins
• Head strength and conditioning: Josh Schuler
• Assistant strength and conditioning / Director of sports science: Jill Costanza
• Assistant strength and conditioning: Cam Josse
• Assistant strength and conditioning: Thadeus Jackson
• Chief of staff / Head coach administration: Jesse Giambra

For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Josh on X, @JoshOnLions

This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Detroit Lions officially announce 2026 coaching staff

The thing about spring training is that, in the first couple weeks, most of the action involves players that you will not see in the regular season. The first few innings might be something fun, but after that it’s only for those who really crave baseball or are overtly interested in the team’s prospects.

Today, the Yankees got most of their damage done early and by the regulars, as four second-inning walks chased Bubba Chandler and both Ben Rice and Jasson Domínguez delivered clutch run-scoring hits that set the tone for a 6-2 win down in Bradenton. Despite traffic on the bases all day, the Yanks mostly kept the Pirates’ offense at bay, with former first-round pick Ben Hess turning the most heads with a strong outing late in the game.

Chandler got things started with a quick 1-2-3 first, which saw Domínguez strike out, sandwiched by both Ben Rice and Ryan McMahon popping out in foul territory.

Ryan Yarbrough gave up a leadoff single to Oneil Cruz, struck out Nick Gonzales, and jumped ahead of Bryan Reynolds 0-2 before walking him. That would prove to be costly, as after a flyout moved Cruz to third, Marcell Ozuna punched one through the right side for a go-ahead RBI single in the first for the Pirates.

Paul DeJong and Spencer Jones led off the second with walks off the usually frugal Chandler, who battled back to get the next two outs before walking both Zack Short and Payton Henry to force in a run, ending his day. After walking just four batters in 31.1 innings last year, he had four in 1.2 innings today.

Former Yankee farmhand Tyrone Yulie came in to face Rice, who smoked a 100.4 mph, two-run single through the right side. Domínguez joined the party a few pitches later, lofting an RBI double into right field to finish off a four-run second.

Yarbrough settled in after a challenging first, giving up a two-out double to Alika Williams between a pair of strikeouts. The second strikeout of the inning was ABS-assisted, as home plate umpire Macon Hammond originally called ball four to put Cruz on first, but the Yankees challenged, and it was overturned to strike three. Overall, not a bad day for Yarbrough, who struck out four in two innings.

Another former Yankee, Dennis Santana, tossed a scoreless third around an infield single by Max Schuemann and a walk by Short. Paul Blackburn took over for Yarbrough in the third and got into immediate trouble with an infield single and a walk. After threatening to walk the bases loaded with nobody out, Blackburn induced a 3-2 forceout before a clear 5-4-3 double play ended the third.

Gregory Soto pitched a 1-2-3 fourth for the Pirates. Blackburn got into more trouble with back-to-back singles in the bottom half. Fortunately, he pulled out another Houdini act, retiring three straight batters, capping it off with a filthy 2-2 curveball to Cruz to end the inning.

Kyle Nicolas retired the middle of the Yankees’ order quickly, including a strikeout of Spencer Jones, in the fifth. Dylan Coleman continued his bullpen audition in the bottom half and got into trouble, but the Pirates stranded two for the third straight inning.

The Yankees threatened to break the game open in the sixth off of Hunter Barco with two walks and a hit by pitch to load the bases, but Domínguez (batting from the right side) struck out, and McMahon slapped a liner the other way that was snagged by new third baseman Jhonny Severino.

Hess made his first appearance of the spring in the sixth as the regulars were removed from the game, and he was impressive, striking out Nick Cimillo and Omar Alfonzo in a quick, nine-pitch inning. Hess got up to 95 mph on his fastball and got three whiffs, including one on a looping curveball to retire Alfonzo.

The Yankees got an extra run in the seventh. Yanquiel Fernandez walked and stole second, Marco Luciano walked against pitcher Kyle Larsen (no, not the NASCAR driver), and Ali Sanchez reached on a throwing error by Severino that allowed Fernandez to score, making it 5-1 into the seventh inning stretch. Hess went back to work and flirted with trouble with a walk and a single allowed, but he struck out the side around it in the seventh.

Miguel Palma, a soft-hitting depth catcher signed away from the Astros this offseason, smacked a leadoff homer off of former Tigers reliever Beau Burrows in the eighth. George Lombard Jr. got his first at-bat of the game later that inning and walked, but was stranded.

After two strong innings, Hess faltered to start the bottom of the eighth, plunking Severino, allowing an RBI double to Cimillo to cut it to 6-2, and walking Alfonzo. He settled down with a 6-4-3 double play and got out of the inning by retiring former Yankee farmhand Brian Sanchez. That wrapped up a three-inning outing from Hess, who impressive on the whole.

Luciano’s leadoff walk in the ninth was stranded by Brandan Bidois, while Geoff Gilbert came on for the Yanks and got the final three outs, improving the spring record to 2-2.

The Yankees are back in action tomorrow, taking on the Blue Jays in Dunedin at 1:07. Will Warren is scheduled to make his first spring start, while Toronto’s starter is to be determined. The game will be available on the Gotham Sports App and MLB Network (out-of-market only).

Box Score

Former Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Robert Woods retired from the NFL last week, signing a one-day contract with the team to make it official. He won’t be without a job in 2026, though. He’s already taking on a new role, this time as a coach.

The Rams announced their staff for 2026, and Woods has been hired as the team’s assistant wide receivers coach. It’s his first opportunity to coach, taking on this new venture less than a week after retiring as a player.

Woods has always been a favorite in Los Angeles, so it’s fitting that his first job will be with the team that signed him as a free agent in 2017. He’s from Gardena, Calif., went to USC and played five years with the Rams, winning one Super Bowl.

He played for Los Angeles from 2017-2021, winning a ring in his final season with the team. Woods was traded to the Titans in 2022 and finished his career with the Texans in 2023 and 2024. He did not play this past season after being cut by the Steelers in August.

Woods, 33, finished his NFL career with 367 catches, 4,626 yards and 23 touchdown catches, playing 12 seasons in the league after being a second-round pick by the Bills in 2013.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: LA Rams hire former NFL WR Robert Woods to coaching staff

High school football schedules for the 2026 season are coming out one-by-one out of every state around the country and one that is a breeding ground for college prospects is the Golden State, with a number of squads finalizing their fall slates.

One of the high school football programs that became very well known throughout the course of the 2025 campaign was the Bishop Montgomery Knights (Calif.). The Knights went through a tumultuous season, finishing winless at 0-9 and having fired longtime previous head coach Ed Hodgkiss after the Knights were forced to forfeit their Week 1 matchup against Mater Dei for not having enough players.

The Knights begin a new era under the watch of first-year head coach Oscar McBride, who led Murrieta Mesa (Calif.) from  0-9 in 2021 to winning a CIF title. During his time at Murrieta Mesa, McBride compiled an overall record of 29-21, which included a 10-5 mark in 2024. On Monday, Bishop Montgomery announced their official 2026 football schedule.

The full Bishop Montgomery 2026 football schedule can be seen below, with all games schedule for 7 p.m. Pacific Time.

Bishop Montgomery Football 2026 Schedule

Aug. 21 — at Segerstrom
Aug. 28 — Bell Gardens
Sep. 4 — atSimi Valley
Sep. 11 — at John Muir
Sep. 18 —Santiago
Oct. 2 — St. Pius X – St. Matthias Academy
Oct. 9 — at Paraclete
Oct. 16 —Cathedral
Oct. 23 — St. Francis
Oct. 30 — at St. Paul

The Knights ended this past season ranked No. 640 in the final 2025 California High School Football Massey Rankings.

More about Bishop Montgomery High School

Founded in 1957, Bishop Montgomery High School (BMHS) is a co-educational Catholic institution located in Torrance, California. The school offers a college-preparatory curriculum rooted in Catholic identity, challenging students to reach their potential through rigorous academics, faith formation, and diverse extracurricular activities. The 24-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a newly renovated STEAM center, media center, and athletic amenities. With an average class size of 24 and an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio, BMHS fosters a supportive learning environment. The school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its 99%-100% college matriculation rate and a global alumni network of over 17,800 members.

How to Follow California High School Football

For high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Golden State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across the country.

Kristaps Porzingis didn't play in the Golden State Warriors' win over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday, Feb. 22. The veteran big man reportedly woke up feeling sick, informing head coach Steve Kerr via text. Porzingis' absence was certainly a blow for the Warriors, especially as he'd made his debut for the franchise in their previous outing, a 121-110 loss to the Boston Celtics.

Now, it would appear that Porzingis is set to miss at least two more games. According to The Athletic's Anthony Slater, the veteran big man has not travelled with the team to New Orleans and, therefore, will not be available when Golden State faces off against the Memphis Grizzlies on the second night of a back-to-back.

"Kristaps Porzingis did not make the trip to New Orleans with the Warriors. It’s a quick two-gamer with a back-to-back in Memphis," Slater reported via X. "This would indicate Porzingis (out with illness yesterday) is expected to miss at least the next two games. Draymond Green did make the trip."

Porzingis isn't the only member of Golden State's roster that's dealing with injury issues. Kerr's team was also without Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, Seth Curry, and Draymond Green for their game against the Denver Nuggets. However, Porzingis' health issues will continue to be a concern until he can string a sizeable run of games together. Furthermore, the Warriors will need Porzingis at his best if they're going to make any noise during the playoffs.

Without Porzingis in the rotation, Al Horford may keep his spot in the starting lineup. And considering the impact he made against Denver, that could be the right call.

This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Warriors get another injury blow ahead of upcoming back-to-back

Proposed Dodgers blockbuster trade deadline deal sees Los Angeles complete Yoshinobu Yamamoto-led super rotation with $300 million two-time Cy Young originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Dodgers already made every MLB fan that wasn’t their own groan this offseason when they landed Kyle Tucker and Edwin Diaz to add to their already stacked roster. However, they have a chance at the trade deadline to make everyone lose their minds.

Fansided’s Mark Powell proposes if the Detroit Tigers are worse than .500 by August 1st, they could make a deal that everyone’s predicting to happen, sending Tarik Skubal to Los Angeles.

MORE: Mets predicted to reunite with $1.4 million All-Star, would provide infield depth behind Francisco Lindor

“Detroit signed Framber Valdez and Justin Verlander over the last two weeks. In doing so, the Tigers tried to appease their fanbase. Scott Harris is willing to go on one last run with Skubal, even if it means losing draft capital. And I really can't blame them! The Tigers are too good to trade Skubal for prospects, and they'd never receive full value for him anyway. Instead, they'll likely settle for a compensatory pick. However, if the Tigers are hovering around .500 at the deadline, which isn't out of the realm of possibility, expect the Dodgers to be the favorites. No, LA doesn't need Skubal, but adding the best pitcher in baseball for a World Series pitch is incredibly enticing. At that point. Skubal won't be all that expensive,” Powell wrote.

In 2025, Skubal won his second Cy Young in a row, finishing with a 13-6 record, a 2.21 ERA, 241 Ks, and a WHIP of 0.891 in 195 innings pitched. He would become the ace of an already loaded rotation, and probably would give the Dodgers the best rotation in MLB history. 

MORE: Proposed Yankees blockbuster trade sees New York reunite with $67 million two-time All-Star ace, provide rotation depth to assist Max Fried

Skubal is projected to receive an eight-year, $300 million deal after this season, so he could be a rental for the Dodgers. However, with their love of deferrals, they could find themselves keeping him long-term as well.

Dodgers fans better hope and pray that the Tigers’ season goes up in flames, and every other MLB fan better hope the opposite.

MORE MLB NEWS

Proposed Tigers blockbuster trade sees Detroit land $340 million three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger as successor to Miguel Cabrera

Twins predicted to be dark horse for $61 million All-Star, former Cy Young candidate to replace Pablo Lopez

Padres predicted to be dark horse candidate for $9 million three-time Cy Young, two-time World Series champion ace to replace Dylan Cease

Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao 2 fight details: Date, location announced for rematch of veteran boxers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Eleven years ago, the fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao was a can't-miss event between two generational boxers. Plenty has changed since Mayweather's win over Pacquiao, but the two might not be done with each other yet.

Mayweather is already venturing back into the ring with an exhibition fight against Mike Tyson in April, which will mark the veteran's ninth exhibition fight since retiring from professional boxing in 2017. 

Pacquiao, meanwhile, fought professionally in 2025 for the first time in four years, ending a bout with Mario Barrios in a draw.

Mayweather and Pacquiao have each spent time in retirement, but fans are set to get another chance to see them in the ring together. Here's what you need to know about a potential Mayweather vs. Pacquiao rematch.

MORE:Details on Floyd Mayweather's exhibition bout with Mike Tyson

Are Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao fighting?

Mayweather and Pacquiao will fight on Sept. 19 in Las Vegas, Netflix announced. Netflix will exclusively stream the bout.

FLOYD MAYWEATHER vs. MANNY PACQUIAO

Two of the greatest icons in boxing history will meet again in the first-ever professional boxing match at Sphere in Las Vegas.

Saturday September 19
LIVE globally only on Netflix#MayPac2pic.twitter.com/3i5FtXBzgX

— Netflix (@netflix) February 23, 2026

Mayweather and Pacquiao, the greatest fighters of their generation, fought in a highly-anticipated bout on May 2, 2015, with Mayweather winning by unanimous decision. Mayweather would only fight professionally two more times before retiring to exhibitions in 2017.

Here are more details on the fight.

MORE: Ranking the best 25 boxers under 25

When will Mayweather and Pacquiao fight?

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 is set for Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, Netflix announced.

Mayweather and Pacquiao each have exhibition fights lined up for April, with Mayweather fighting Tyson and Pacquiao taking on Ruslan Provodnikov.

Where will Mayweather and Pacquiao fight?

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 will be held at the Sphere in Las Vegas.

The first bout between Mayweather and Pacquiao took place at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, years before the Sphere was even built. 

MORE:Why did Terence Crawford retire?

Is Mayweather vs. Pacquiao a professional fight?

Despite Mayweather being nearly nine years into retirement from professional boxing, a second fight with Pacquiao is expected to be professional, rather than an exhibition.

Both Mayweather and Pacquiao are set to fight in exhibition matches in April, but a bout with Pacquiao would be Mayweather's first professional fight since his win over Conor McGregor in 2017 and put his undefeated record to the test. Pacquiao's last professional fight came in 2025.

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao weight class

The weight class for Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 isn't yet clear. The two greats faced off for the world welterweight title in 2015, but Mayweather, who will be 49 at the time of the upcoming fight, weighed in at close to 161 pounds for his most recent exhibition fight in 2024. The maximum welterweight limit is 147 pounds.

Pacquiao, meanwhile, came in at 146.8 pounds for his fight with Barrios in 2025, meaning he isn't far from the light middleweight and middleweight class.

Was the Shohei Ohtani of the last two seasons just a prelude?

After his first healthy offseason with the Los Angeles Dodgers, it’s possible the best player in baseball could be even better.

Jack Harris of the California Post sat down with the Foul Territory show to discuss the Dodger, noting that when it comes to the two-way superstar, “nothing’s going to hold him back physically.”

“He was past the Tommy John recovery. He was past the shoulder surgery that he had last offseason, and it’s allowed him to come into camp in as good of a spot this early on as the Dodgers have seen him,” he said.

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Team is Optimistic but Careful Regarding Ohtani

Ohtani is healthy, but he’s still coming off a grueling World Series run and is playing in the World Baseball Classic in March.

Though he’s likely not pitching in the WBC, Ohtani will still participate as designated hitter.

With him playing such a big role at the plate for Japan and the Dodgers, the team is hoping to keep him fresh for the playoffs late in the season by easing him into the pitching this year.

Thus far, the team has been reticent to definitively declare that Ohtani will pitch without restrictions on Opening Day.

“You’re going to see them be still a little more methodical with how he’s used over the course of the year, given the two-way workload and the fact that they want him to be as fresh as possible come October, but this is as close as we’re going to see back to a full-time two-way Shohei Ohtani,” Harris said.

As for what that could mean when Ohtani does take the mound, Harris said he expects shorter outings, at least at first.

“My guess is he’s not going to be fully ramped up for six or seven innings the first couple times he takes the mound this year as a pitcher,” Harris said.

Ohtani Won’t Pitch in WBC — Or Will He?

Ohtani isn’t supposed to pitch in the WBC at all, though he’s admitted there’s one situation that might force his hand.

If a repeat of his face off with former Angels teammate Mike Trout were to magically occur, he’d be tempted.

“Yeah, if Trout is coming up at the end, I might go in,” he said.

Fortunately for Dodgers fans, Trout is going to miss the WBC due to insurance issues.

The Alabama Crimson Tide have officially announced their opening opponent for the 2028 college football season.

Per an announcement Monday, Alabama will officially open the 2028 college football at home inside Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium, doing so against the Georgia State Panthers. That game will be played Saturday, Sept. 2, in Tuscaloosa, with the start time and TV network announced at a later date.

Alabama and Georgia State have met only twice before, both of which have been Crimson Tide wins in Tuscaloosa. The Crimson Tide won 63-7 back in 2010 during the first-ever meeting, with Alabama also winning the second in 2013, 45-3.

Georgia State is a long-time member of the Sun Belt conference, and led by head coach Dell McGee, are coming off a 2025 season that saw the Panthers finish 1-11 overall (0-8 Sun Belt). Since making the move to the FBS level prior to the 2013 season, Georgia State has recorded zero 10-win seasons, with their best campaign an 8-5 finish back in 2021.

Circle it. ‘28 home opener 🏈 pic.twitter.com/Zbg7L0HSNY

— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) February 23, 2026

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

This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Alabama football to host Georgia State Panthers in 2028 season opener

Florian Wirtz had been set to start in Liverpool’s tricky match against bogey team Nottingham Forest on Sunday, but was replaced by Curtis Jones after an issue in the warm-up. Speaking after the fact, Liverpool boss Arne Slot clarified that the German attacker didn’t so much pick up an injury as feel a bit off — and Slot and his team chose not to risk him.

Slot is optimistic about Wirtz’s ability to feature in upcoming matches:

“We don’t think it is very serious, but he felt his back too much during the warm-up to start.

“He wasn’t able to be 100 per cent or even close to 100 per cent. I think after being in this league for six, seven or eight months, he now understands no matter how good you are on the ball, you need to be 100 per cent at this level.

“So, we decided not to play him. We hope and expect he will be able to be with us again next week but you never know how things work out.”

Reds will hope this holds true, as Liverpool were decidedly not inspiring when lacking one of the most creative players thus far this season. As the Reds finished in the top eight of the Champions League Group Stage they mercifully have no mid-week game this week, next facing West Ham United at home on Saturday.

Slot and his team will hopefully have Wirtz back to “100 per cent” by the side’s next outing. Though most things went Liverpool’s way in the weekend’s fixtures — and with Manchester United currently drawing away to Everton — a very strong finish to the season is required to qualify for top-level European football next season, and a healthy Florian Wirtz will go a long way in aiding that strong finish.

The birds are singing, the snow is melting, and pitchers are getting hurt. Spring is here. The Jays have already lost Bowden Francis for the season. Shane Bieber is delayed, and now it sounds like Yimi Garcia will be as well. The Jays wisely invested in depth this winter. Cody Ponce was an interesting signing to shore up the back of the rotation, and Jose Berrios is still here after a winter of trade speculation. Eric Lauer is here too, and wants a starting job. He’s not in the top 5 right now, but he has a case and he’d crack most rotations in the league. The depth in AAA looks thin if you don’t think Ricky Tiedemann is a starter in 2026 (we’ll see about long term), but Jake Bloss should be working his way back by June. All of which is to say that the Jays have some shuffling to do but right now look set to field a very good five man rotation with some depth.

Enter Max Scherzer. The last time the future first ballot hall of famer walked off a mound, he’d held the fearsome Dodgers offence to one run over four and a third to start game 7 of the World Series, leaving with a lead and having out-dueled Shohei Ohtani. If the Jays had held on, it would be the crowning moment of one of the best pitching careers of his generation. But they didn’t, and so Scherzer wants to give the storybook ending one more try. It seems like if he pitches in 2026 it will be for the Blue Jays, and repots are that the talks are heating up.

For all his past greatness, he had a 5.19 ERA in the regular season last year and while the stats suggest he deserved a little better he’s firmly a #5 in 2026. As it is, he probably doesn’t crack the starting five even before Shane Bieber’s slow ramp up is completed. It’s hard to imagine him accepting a bullpen role. On the other hand, you never have enough pitching, and he brings a ton of leadership and (arguably psychotic) intensity to the clubhouse. My questions are: will the Blue Jays end up signing Scherzer, and should they?

Lindsey Vonn’s horrific leg injury was even more serious than originally realized.

The American skier said surgery saved her left leg from being amputated after she crashed during her downhill race on Feb. 8 at the Milano Cortina Olympics.

The complicated injury left Vonn with compartment syndrome in her leg, she said Monday in a four-minute Instagram video.

“Compartment syndrome is when you have so much trauma to one area of your body that there’s too much blood, and it gets stuck and it basically crushes everything,” Vonn said.

The condition required Team USA physician Dr. Tom Hackett to perform a fasciotomy in which he “filleted” Vonn’s leg open and “let it breathe,” she said.

Hackett had made the trip to Italy only because Vonn was attempting to compete on a torn ACL in her left knee — an injury she suffered days earlier when she crashed during her final Olympic warmup race.

“If I hadn’t torn my ACL, Tom wouldn’t have been there,” Vonn said Monday. “He wouldn’t have been there to save my leg.”

The Olympic crash left Vonn with a complex tibia fracture, as well as a broken right ankle that she revealed Monday.

After spending nearly two weeks in the hospital, Vonn moved to a hotel but is still unable to go home.

“It has been quite the journey and, by far, the most extreme and painful and challenging injury I’ve ever faced in my entire life,” Vonn said.

Vonn, 41, is a three-time Olympic medalist, including winning gold in the downhill at the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver.

She retired after the 2018 Olympics, but following multiple surgeries — including a partial knee replacement — Vonn made a surprise return to skiing in 2024.

This year’s Winter Games marked Vonn’s fifth trip to the Olympics. During Monday’s video, Vonn was moved to tears as she reflected on her comeback coming up short.

“I’ll be in a wheelchair for a while,” Vonn said, adding, “I hope I can be on crutches in a little bit, but we’ll see. … But I’m gonna get right to work on rehab and see what I can do, and take it one step at a time.”

American teammate Breezy Johnson won the downhill event after Vonn’s crash. That was one of 12 gold medals won by Team USA.

“Watching Team USA dominate has been really uplifting,” Vonn said.

____

When a club attempts to sign a player, who the manager they will be working with and the subsequent discussions with the player are very important factors in convincing a player to join. When Bayern Munich worked to convince Luis Díaz to sign from Liverpool FC, Vincent Kompany was the manager sent to convince Díaz to sign. Given the Colombian only knew Kompany from his one season in the Premier League with Burnley, which ended in relegation, it might have initially seemed that Kompany was not going to be a positive aspect for him.

But the former Porto player saw beyond just that one season and was quickly impressed by Kompany.

He told me what he thought of me, what he wanted from me, and what role he saw me playing in the team,” Díaz said to Kerry Hau of his phone call with Kompany before the move to Bayern, as captured by @iMiaSanMia. “That was a huge help. Even after the transfer was official and I arrived here, we sat down and talked about a lot of things – about football, but also about personal and family matters. And that’s an important point. I feel very comfortable with him as my coach. That’s why I think I’ll develop even more than I already have. You learn a lot about football from him. He likes intensity, he likes character – everyone defends, everyone attacks. All those things that are important for a team to work well. And as a person, he’s truly incredible. He pays attention to the little things, he cares about you. He even asks questions like, ‘How’s your family? Do you need any help? Just get in touch if you need anything.’ He’s incredible; there’s nothing more to say about him as a person. And I know he can achieve so much more than he already has. Kompany has been very important for me and for my ability to integrate so quickly and easily here.”

Kompany may not have had the best CV before his move to Bayern but he clearly has a great character and a good footballing philosophy. Often, if the player is willing to engage in a conversation, that is enough.

Juninhi, coach of the Under-20 Beach Soccer National Team, has announced the squad for the final of the Conmebol Liga Evolución 2025Credits: Fabio Loayza/VSN

Coach Juninho has called up the Brazilian Under-20 Men's Beach Soccer National Team for the final of the CONMEBOL Liga Evolución 2025, which will take place on March 7 and 8, in Guarujá-SP.

In the list of ten athletes, the coach maintained the core of the team that won the North Zone group, a title that secured Brazil's place in the tournament's final against Paraguay, the winner of the South Zone group.

“We are going to play this final very focused on bringing the title back to Brazil. Once again, we will have our preparation at Granja Comary, with all the facilities for our players, which will be very beneficial. I would like to thank the CBF Beach Soccer management, Dr. Mauro Carmélio, Lavoisier Freire, and, of course, President Samir Xaud, for all the support to our sport. Now we must prepare well and fight on the field,” said Juninho.

The Liga Evolución brings together the adult and under-20 teams of Brazil and Paraguay, who will play one match in each category on Saturday (7) and Sunday (8). The champion country of the 2025 edition will be the one that accumulates the most points at the end of the four matches. Brazil won the first four editions, in 2017, 18, 19, and 22. The last title was shared with Paraguay, who also won in 2023 and 24.

Training with the complete delegations will begin next Saturday (28), at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis (RJ).

Check out the call-ups:

Under-20 Beach Soccer National Team Call-up for the CONMEBOL Liga Evolución 2025Credits: CBF Disclosure

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Denis Shapovalov has explained how his wife, Mirjam Bjorklund, has helped improve his game this year.

Shapovalov is a former world number 10, and reached the semifinals of Wimbledon in 2021.

However, the Canadian has struggled to consistently recreate this form since then, with Shapovalov being ranked outside the top 20 since January 2023.

After reaching the semifinals in Dallas, Shapovalov has travelled to the tournament in Dubai, where he lives with Bjorklund, and explained how she has been helping his tennis this year.

Denis Shapovalov reveals how wife Mirjam Bjorklund has been helping his tennis

Shapovalov and Bjorklund have been a couple since 2019, with the pair getting married in September last year.

Bjorklund is a former tennis player herself, and Shapovalov has told Tennis TV how she has been helping his game after he stopped working with coach Mikael Tillstrom.

“Yeah, to be honest I’m a bit kind of in the transition phase,” said Shapovalov. “I stopped working with Mikael a couple of weeks ago and she’s been helping me on court since then, especially while I’ve been here in Dubai. So yeah, she knows my game really, really well.

“So yeah, she was a player herself, she’s got a great tennis knowledge and yeah she’s…we are always communicating about my game and talking about it, so it’s easy for her to step in and help me out.

“I think she’s been great, I think a few things she’s given me over these last couple of weeks have been great and they helped in Dallas, so they can help me here as well…Yeah definitely a secret weapon both on and off the court. She’s a great wife, great person, so I’m very lucky in that.”

Shapovalov will have Bjorklund in his coaching box for his next tournament at the Dubai Tennis Championships, where he is playing Pablo Carreno Busta in the first round.

What did Mirjam Bjorklund achieve in her tennis career?

While Shapovalov is the more high-profile of the two, Bjorklund was also a WTA Tour player until last year.

Bjorklund achieved a career-high ranking of world number 123 in 2022, and won 10 ITF titles in her career.

The Swede also collected eight WTA tour-level wins, which includes Bjorklund collecting her only top 30 win against Elise Mertens in Bogota.

Bjorklund never won a Grand Slam main draw match, but she did qualify for a major tournament on every surface.

After dealing with injuries in recent years, Bjorklund announced that she was retiring from tennis last year at just 27 years old, stating that she wanted to explore other avenues in life.

Since calling a day on her career, Bjorklund has been helping her husband Shapovalov, which appears to be working well according to him.

Pep Guardiola has credited one member of his Manchester City team for putting in a memorable performance against Newcastle on Saturday night.

The City manager was full of admiration for the effort shown by his side during a tense 2-1 victory that kept their Premier League title challenge up against Mikel Arteta’s firmly alive over the weekend.

While goals once again proved decisive, Pep Guardiola was keen to draw attention to the off-the-ball sacrifices from a number of his players that underpinned the result on an emotionally charged evening.

Played out in front of a lively crowd at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City’s win saw them close the gap on leaders Arsenal, but only after withstanding sustained pressure from a determined Newcastle side who tested Guardiola’s team until the final whistle.

Speaking to reporters after the clash, Guardiola was quizzed on the defensive contributions in particular offered by star striker Erling Haaland during the 2-1 win.

“I would prefer [him] don’t defend but when there is long balls and Erling’s at striker and has to go to central defender with [Dan] Burn and Joelinton at the end, all the pace in behind and the people – he had to help us,” said Guardiola.

The City manager continued, “Listen, I’m not a big fan to put Erling to defend but he helped us and I know after that how the people hugged him and celebrated [with] him and said their gratitude for helping us because Newcastle allowed us to do that, and only I’m a little bit sad for him because there are a lot of actions that we could’ve made the last pass to him and we didn’t find him.

“And it’s difficult for him to run, run, run, and fight, and they don’t give the balls to score goals. But sometimes the game is like that and he’s an incredibly generous player. Today is a performance I’ll never forget what Erling has done for us.”

Haaland also offered contribution at the other end of the field too, providing a crucial right-footed cross for Nico O’Reilly to head home, doubling Manchester City’s advantage in the first-half of the clash.

Quizzed on whether support from Omar Marmoush up front would allow for Erling Haaland to find himself in more crossing positions, Guardiola said, “No. Football, in the final third they play, but I want someone to cross to him! It’s what I want.

“But it was incredible movement, four players in the box. It was an incredible assist. One colleague of yours told me in a flash interview that he has made a lot, a lot of assists already this season. So the numbers are unbelievable and the work rate and many things.

“I’m really pleased. Sometimes I’m critical of him, but today I said, ‘Guy, without you, it would not be possible’. Erling has been outstanding today, outstanding.”

The praise capped off a night where Manchester City were required to dig deep as Nico O’Reilly’s two first-half goals ultimately proved enough, but the visitors ensured Guardiola’s side were under constant strain after the break.

For Pep Guardiola, Erling Haaland’s performance in all areas of the pitch embodied the collective mentality needed from the entire Manchester City squad in the season’s defining moments.

With the Premier League title race intensifying and every single point carrying even greater weight, such selfless displays may yet prove just as valuable as goals as Manchester City continue their pursuit of silverware.

The officials for Matchweek 28 of the Premier League have been announced, and Playmaker are here to quickly run you through the referees for each game.

As ever, we have summarised the stats regarding which officials have taken charge of most top flight games this season, and which have dished out the most cards!

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• Anthony Taylor 22 Games
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• Anthony Taylor 81 Yellow Cards
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Well, Vikings fans, it's time for another Mock Draft Monday. We are back on track to go over the NFL Draft with us fast approaching the NFL Scouting Combine that starts this week.

The best way to go over and process changes to the NFL Draft, of course, is to conduct another Mock Draft Monday. The Vikings now have the 18th pick in the draft, which is finalized, so we will now be able to properly gauge what players could be there for him.

So with that, let's go over the latest mock draft of the offseason for the Vikings.

Round 1: Caleb Banks, DL, Florida

Round 2: Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati

Round 3: Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska

Round 3: Carson Beck, QB, Miami (FL)

Round 5: Drew Shelton, OL, Penn State

Round 6: Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia

Round 6: Andre Fuller, CB, Toledo

Round 6: TJ Guy, Edge, Michigan

Round 7: Eli Heidenreich, FB, Navy

Round 7: Patrick Payton, Edge, LSU

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings 2026 Mock Draft Monday heading into the NFL Scouting Combine

The Utah Jazz are running out of players to put in their front court. Utah Jazz center Jusuf Nurkić will undergo a season-ending surgical procedure on his nose, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. Nurkić has reportedly experienced complications of breathing and sleeping since fracturing his nose a few years ago.

Nurkić averaged 10.9 points, 10.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists while shooting 50.3% from the field in his first season with the Jazz. The 31-year-old has also spent time playing for the Charlotte Hornets, Phoenix Suns, Portland Trail Blazers and the Denver Nuggets.

Nurkić is the latest Jazz player to be ruled out for the rest of the season. Jaren Jackson Jr. was also ruled out for the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery on his left knee. Jackson was reportedly shut down to ensure his long-term health after a localized PVNS growth was discovered post-trade.

Jackson was acquired by the Jazz in a trade in February that sent multiple players and three future first-round picks to the Memphis Grizzlies. Jazz center Walker Kessler played in five games this season before undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

With Nurkić ruled out, expect the Jazz to go with Kyle Filipowski, 37-year-old Kevin Love and two-way contract player Oscar Tshiebwe. The Jazz could also experiment with playing star forward Lauri Markkanen at center, as long as he is not shut down.

The Jazz injuries come at a time when the league is trying to crack down on tanking, with teams near the bottom of the standings eyeing a loaded 2026 NBA Draft. The Jazz and the Indiana Pacers were recently fined for “overt tanking behavior." 

The Jazz and Pacers have been under scrutiny because both team have a chance to keeping their 2026 NBA Draft pick depending on where they land. The Jazz can only keep their pick if land in the top eight of the draft.

Teams such as the Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards have also recently sat star players they recently acquired. The Jazz are 18-39, currently second to last in the West.

Red Bull's Showrun in San Francisco brought speed and chaos to the Marina on Saturday both on and off the track.

The annual showcase gave spectators a chance to witness some of the most suped-up vehicles out there racing down the Marina. However, much of the Formula 1 demonstration centered around what people weren't able to see and how they chose to solve that problem. 

Unless someone was standing by the street-turned-track barrier - including those who were just one or two rows behind - it was quite difficult to see the cars speeding by for the mere seconds they were visible. Witnesses on social media described attendees either practically on top of one another or standing on different structures surrounding the event. They stood on street signs, construction equipment and a shipping container, and they even sneaked onto the properties of surrounding residences. One video on TikTok showed police removing spectators who had made their way onto the balcony of a nearby apartment.

Some of the attendees took matters into their own hands and brought ladders and chairs from home so they could get a better view over the uncontained crowd. The number of people in the Marina on Saturday created some bottleneck situations, trapping aspiring spectators who had brought infants and dogs to the event. In one Reddit post, commenters confirmed witnessing altercations over the limited space. It also caused major traffic issues throughout the city on Saturday.

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SFGATE reached out to various authorities about the fallout from the event. The San Francisco Fire Department directed SFGATE to the event's organizers. The Department of Building Inspection did not find any complaints submitted over possible damage done to nearby homes. SFPD's public information officer did not respond to inquiries about arrests and citations. Mayor Daniel Lurie's office also did not respond to a request for comment.

It wasn't just the spectators who had problems during the event, as the spectacle itself had its share of notable mishaps too. One race car caught fire while driver Yuki Tsunoda, of "Drive to Survive" fame, did some celebratory donuts on the street, and another hit a barricade in front of some spectators, causing the car's wing to fall off. Both drivers looked unscathed after their respective incidents. As for the financial damage, Red Bull's own FAQ site values F1 cars at an estimated $16 million.

Even the post-event hype video couldn't avoid a mistake, as the on-screen captions had Tsunoda calling the city "San Fransisco," a typo that Red Bull also had on its official schedule as of Monday morning. 

SFGATE local editor Kasia Pawlowska contributed to this report.

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This article originally published at Red Bull's F1 showcase in the Marina was utter chaos.

Lindsey Vonn says her left leg almost needed to be amputated following her horrific crash while competing at the Milan-Cortina Olympics earlier this month.

In a video posted to Instagram on Monday, the U.S. ski racing legend said she has been released from the hospital more than two weeks after suffering a complex tibia fracture and other damage that led to compartment syndrome in the leg.

Vonn credited Dr. Tom Hackett, an orthopedic surgeon who works for Vonn and Team USA, for salvaging the limb. She also gave some indirect credit to the complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee that occurred during another crash on Jan. 30, just a week before the start of the Winter Olympics.

"I always talk about everything happens for a reason," Vonn said. "If I hadn't torn my ACL ... Tom wouldn't have been there. He wouldn't have been able to save my leg."

Read more:Lindsey Vonn says she has no regrets. Experts agree torn ACL didn't cause her crash

Vonn has won 84 World Cup races and three Olympic medals, including gold in the downhill at the 2010 Vancouver Games. She returned to competitive skiing last year after a six-year hiatus. Vonn did not allow the torn ACL to prevent her from competing in what she has called her "fifth and final Olympics."

Despite completing multiple test runs, Vonn's Feb. 8 downhill race lasted 13 seconds before she crashed. She was airlifted from the Olimpia delle Tofane course in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

In addition to the previously reported complex tibia fracture, Vonn said Monday that she also fractured her fibular head and tibia plateau on her left leg during the crash.

Read more:Lindsey Vonn reveals that her beloved dog, Leo, died the day after her downhill crash at Olympics

"Just kind of everything was in pieces," said Vonn, who added that she also broke her right ankle during the accident.

Vonn said that all the trauma in her left leg caused a condition called compartment syndrome, which involves excessive pressure building up inside a muscle, either from bleeding or swelling, and can restrict blood flow and possibly lead to permanent injury.

"When you have so much trauma to one area of your body that there's too much blood and it gets stuck, and it basically crushes everything in the compartment so all the muscle and nerves and tendons, it all kind of dies," Vonn said.

Read more:U.S. Olympics hockey hero Jack Hughes' immediate future includes dental implants

"And Dr. Tom Hackett saved my leg. He saved my leg from being amputated. He did what's called a fasciotomy, where he cut open, like both sides of my leg, and kind of filleted open, so to speak, let it breathe. And he saved me."

At one point since the crash, Vonn said, she received a blood transfusion to raise her hemoglobin levels.

"I can't tell you how painful it's been," she said.

Read more:Records, proposals and controversy: The legacy of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Games

Vonn still has a long road to recovery. She said she's "very much immobile," confined to a wheelchair for the time being and then on crutches for at least two months.

"It will take around a year for all of the bones to heal and then I will decide if I want to take out all the metal or not," Vonn wrote in the Instagram post, "and then go back into surgery and finally fix my ACL."

She added in the video: "We have to take the punches as they come, so I'll do the best I can with this one. It really knocked me down, but I'm like Rocky. I'll just keep getting back up."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

Subscribe to The Kevin O'Connor Show
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On today’s Kevin O’Connor Show, KOC is joined by NBC broadcaster John Fanta to talk everything NBA. They start with Eastern Conference contender power rankings: who’s the number one team in the East? Could Cade Cunningham really be MVP?

Then, they turn to Team USA hockey’s gold-medal win against Canada before John tells the story of his call-up to the NBA on NBC by Mike Tirico.

Plus, they discuss if Anthony Edwards is the face of the league, address the troubles in Phoenix & Houston, and take a look at the top prospects in this year’s fiery draft class.

That and more, today!

Eastern Conference Contenders (1:39)
USA Hockey and John's NBC Career (43:16)
Draft Class (1:10:20)

Luiza Moraes

🖥️ Watch this full episode on the Yahoo Sports NBA YouTube channel

Check out all episodes of The Kevin O’Connor Show and the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr. has perfect response to poor 2025 form originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

One thing we know about the NFL is that success isn't linear, and Jacksonville Jaguars star receiver Brian Thomas Jr. found that out the hard way in 2025.

After a stellar rookie season that saw Thomas post 1,282 yards and 10 TDs, many thought Year 2 would be even better...but it wasn't.

Thomas would post just 707 yards and 2 TDs on 47 receptions (had 82 in his rookie season), and that has led some to think his future might lie elsewhere, despite him only being with the Jaguars for two years.

And when reflecting on the season, Thomas Jr. gave the perfect response.

"It was just adversity, [which] gives you a lot to grow from," Thomas said via ESPN. "I wouldn't call it frustrating. I mean, it just gives you something to build off. You know what you've got to do and you know what you got to do to sustain [success]."

More:Saints' Cam Jordan gives huge vote of confidence for Tyler Shough as franchise leader

Thomas Jr.'s future oddly uncertain

Some think that Thomas Jr. will be on the trade block this offseason, mainly due to Travis Hunter's emergence, but it doesn't seem too feasible.

The biggest reason is, why would the Jaguars, who have contractual control over Brian, along with having him cheap, move on and potentially put the offense in a bind?

Yes, his 2025 stats were nowhere near his rookie numbers, but one down year doesn't mean the Jags should cut ties.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out over the coming weeks and months, but at least Brian is self-aware enough to take 2025 in his stride and not mope around about it.

More NFL news:

• ESPN analyst offers eyebrow-raising take on Travis Kelce's Chiefs future
• Breece Hall appears fed up with constant unknown over Jets future
• AFC team named wildcard for Tua Tagovailoa if Dolphins part ways with QB
• Why Commanders aren't poised to contend with Jayden Daniels in 2026
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• Chiefs' Andy Reid offers key Patrick Mahomes injury update

As the Longhorns approach spring practice, one of the subplots is Laurence Seymore. The OL transfer from Western Kentucky is currently in a fight to be granted a waiver for the 2026 season. After using his redshirt year at Miami(FL), Seymour sat after transferring to Akron, something he wouldn't have to do today. The argument is Seymore should have that year back so he can play for the Longhorns. 

Steve Sarkisian and the coaching staff are unlikely to give many assurances until they are certain, but there seems to be optimism. Inside Texas reported last week that Seymore hopes to hear from the NCAA early in March and they feel confident. Currently, it’s hard to predict what the NCAA is going to do but it seems Seymore’s could fit into a grey area of the NCAA rule. 

On transfer OL Laurence Seymore, Steve Sarkisian says the school is still waiting on a return from the NCAA about his waiver.

Seymore submitted a waiver before entering the portal, but was able to re-submit with a more "compelling" argument after arriving at #Texas.

Sark:…

— CJ Vogel (@CJVogel_OTF) February 23, 2026

It should be said if the NCAA doesn’t rule in Seymore’s favor, that is not the end of the process. The precedent has been set to take these matters to court and I’d expect that if the NCAA doesn’t grant Seymore’s waiver. It can’t be stressed enough how important Seymore is for Texas’ plans in 2026. He fits into the final starting spot on the OL, likely LG, and brings experience and elite pass protection. If the Texas OL is going to be a true strength of the team, Seymore likely has to be a part of it. 

#Texas HC Steve Sarkisian speaks on the offensive line additions out of the portal and the emphasis for all levels of the offense to improve. @kbohls with the OL Question. pic.twitter.com/0GJ9SEN09G

— CJ Vogel (@CJVogel_OTF) February 23, 2026

This process can be long and convoluted. Hopefully we hear early next week that Seymore has been granted a waiver and is clear to join the Longhorns as soon as possible. Steve Sarkisian gave us a small peek behind the curtain but the NCAA decision will come soon enough. A no from the NCAA doesn’t end the process but it sure saves Seymore some time and headache.

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Texas' Steve Sarkisian updates OL Laurence Seymore's eligibility fight

Lindsey Vonn says she nearly lost her leg after a heavy crash at the Winter Olympics - and has thanked the doctor who saved her from needing an amputation.

The American skiing great, 41, has had multiple operations since breaking her leg and ankle in the women's downhill event in Italy on 8 February.

Speaking in an Instagram video on Monday, she paid tribute to her surgeon for saving her leg and described the injury as "the most extreme, painful and challenging" of her career.

Vonn said her leg was "in pieces" and that she had compartment syndrome, a pressure inside a muscle, which restricts blood flow - and that the surgeon performed a fasciotomy, an emergency operation, to relieve the pressure.

"Dr Tom Hackett saved my leg - he saved it from being amputated," she said.

"He cut open both sides of my leg, so it was open and let it breathe so to speak. He saved me."

Vonn, who returned to the United States last week after four operations in Italy, said she has now left hospital and been moved to a hotel, describing it as a "huge step".

She added that she will be in a wheelchair "for a while" because in addition to the broken leg, she has also broken her ankle.

Vonn was racing at the Olympics in Cortina nine days after rupturing ligaments in her left knee when she struck a gate 13 seconds into her downhill run.

She was airlifted off the piste and diagnosed with a complex tibia fracture in her left leg.

Having returned to the USA, Vonn explained she had a six-hour reconstructive operation on Wednesday, but also needed a blood transfusion as she had "low haemoglobin due to all the blood loss and surgeries".

She added: "I turned a corner, and now I am out. It's going to be a long road, I'm in a wheelchair right now, very much immobile. I hope I can be on crutches in a little bit, but we'll see and be on them for at least two months."

Vonn said it could take a year for her bones to heal, adding: "Then I will decide if I want to take out all the metal or not, and then go back into surgery and finally fix my ACL [anterior cruciate ligament]."

No. 2 Houston Cougars dropped from top-seed in latest bracketology originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Houston Cougars faced consecutive losses to Iowa State and Arizona last week. A combination of a weakened defense and scoring droughts at critical moments led to defeats against two top Big 12 opponents, both of which are now ranked higher than the Cougars.

Kelvin Sampson’s Houston Cougars suffered consecutive scoring droughts that proved costly. Houston went scoreless in the final five minutes against Iowa State earlier in the week, then endured an eight-minute drought in the second half against Arizona at the Fertitta Center.

Arizona replaces Houston as a No. 1 seed. The Wildcats rebounded with victories against BYU and Houston. Sporting News Senior Writer Bill Bender ranks Arizona among the top seeds alongside Duke, Michigan, and Iowa State.

The Houston Cougars will take on the Kansas Jayhawks tonight at 8 pm, and all eyes will be on the Cougars' ability to overcome key painpoints that need to be corrected if they hope to run deep in March. 

More college basketball news:

• March Madness bracket predictions 4.0: Projecting the Field of 68 for 2026 NCAA Tournament
• Adrian Autry buyout, contract details as Syracuse Orange coach
• 'Basketball Saved My Life': Why Master P came home to rebuild New Orleans
• Bruce Pearl sends warning to NBA teams about Kansas' Darryn Peterson
• Why FOX blocked St. John’s from participating in a major college basketball event
• John Calipari says college athletics is broken — Here’s his plan to fix 

Why Team USA women’s hockey turned down invitation to White House State of the Union address originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The United States ended the Olympics with a bang, winning gold medals in both the men's and women's ice hockey events.

While the men return with a heroes welcome, including a potential appearance at the White House State of the Union on Tuesday night, the women won't be in attendance. President Donald Trump invited the men to the event in a phone call on Sunday, and seemingly acknowledged a backhanded invitation for the women against his own wishes.

"I must tell you, we're going to have to bring the women's team, you do know that," Trump told the team.

While it appears that the White House did give the women an official invitation to join on Tuesday, the team made the decision to turn it down in favor of returning to their professional or collegiate lives.

Here's why the women's hockey team will not be in Washington D.C. on Tuesday night.

MORE: Biggest winners and losers from the 2026 Olympics

Why Team USA women's hockey declined State of the Union invitation

In a statement, the United States women's hockey team said it turned down the invitation to attend the State of the Union due to logistical issues.

"We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal-winning U.S. Women's Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement. Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment."

The women who play in the Professional Women’s Hockey League will resume their season over this weekend, with the first game being Thursday when the Montreal Victoire play the New York Sirens. Additionally, those still in college will return to their schools for games beginning on Friday.

Of the 23 players on Team USA's women's hockey roster, 16 play professionally in the PWHL while seven play for their college teams.

MORE: Final medal count, full table from 2026 Winter Olympics

Former Barça president reignites Spanish football war

Joan Laporta targets Real Madrid in new book

Former Barcelona president Joan Laporta will release new book on 24 February sharing his version of the club’s recent crises.

Laporta prepares book ahead of elections

Former Joan Laporta who stepped down from his role at Barcelona ahead of the next elections, is set to publish a new book titled “This Is How We Saved Barcelona”

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, the book will be officially released on Monday, with copies available in bookstores from 24 February.

Laporta uses the book to explain how he dealt with Barcelona’s severe financial crisis during his second term as president.

Financial crisis and key departures

In the book, Laporta details the difficult decisions taken over five year describing what he calls innovative solutions to fix what he viewed as chaotic financial situation at the club.

He also addresses the high-profile departures of Lionel Messi, former coach Ronald Koeman and club legend Xavi Hernandez. Laporta explains the context behind each exit and how those moments shaped Barcelona’s recent history.

The book also includes Laporta’s position on the European Super League project and Barcelona’s involvement in the controversial plan.

Laporta addresses the Negreira case

Laporta also uses the book to respond to accusations linked to the Negreira case stating that there is no clear evidence showing that payments made to companies connected to former referees official influenced referee appointments or match results.

He challenges critics to point out specific match, goal or decision that benefited Barcelona because of those payments. Laporta insists that no sporting advantage was gained.

The former Barcelona president also responds directly to comments made by Florentino Perez president of Real Madrid who recently described the Negreira case as the biggest scandal in football history.

Laporta counters by claiming that, for decades, many heads of Spain’s refereeing committees had close ties to Real Madrid, either as former players, officials or supporters.

He argues that this situation, in his view, represents a far greater controversy in Spanish football.

After a three-year wait, the World Baseball Classic is back. Team Japan will look to defend its title after taking down Team USA in the 2023 final. That contest ended in the most dramatic way possible, as Shohei Ohtani faced his then-teammate Mike Trout with the game on the line in the ninth inning. 

Delivering an encore to that at-bat will be a tall task for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, but it helps that some of the biggest names in baseball have committed to playing in the tournament this time around. 

With the 2026 World Baseball Classic fast approaching, here's everything you need to know about the event, including the schedule, bracket, rosters and where you can watch every game.

2026 World Baseball Classic schedule

The 2026 World Baseball Classic begins March 5 and runs through March 17. Games will be played in four stadiums spread across Puerto Rico, Japan and the United States. 

The pool stage will run from March 5 to March 11. The quarterfinals will occur March 13 and March 14. The semifinals will take place March 15 and March 16, setting up the WBC final on March 17 in Miami.

2026 World Baseball Classic teams

A total of 20 teams will take part in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Those teams are broken up into five pools to begin the event. Here's how each pool shakes out:

Pool A

Puerto Rico
Cuba
Canada
Panama
Colombia

Pool B

United States
Mexico
Italy
Great Britain
Brazil

Pool C

Japan
Australia
Korea
Czechia
Chinese Taipei

Pool D

Venezuela
Dominican Republic
Netherlands
Israel
Nicaragua

2026 World Baseball Classic format

The 2026 WBC will begin with the pool stage. In this stage, teams will play every other team in their pools. Puerto Rico, for example, will play the four other teams in Pool A during this portion of the tournament. After that, the two teams with the best records in each pool will advance to the quarterfinals. In the event of a tie, head-to-head record is the first tiebreaker. From there, things get slightly more complicated, with the "lowest quotient of runs allowed divided by the number of defensive outs recorded in games between the teams that are tied" coming into play, per ESPN.

In the quarterfinals, the winner of Pool A will play against the runner-up from Pool B, and the winner of Pool B will play the runner-up from Pool A. The same format will occur on the other side of the bracket featuring the winners and runners-up from Pools C and D. The tournament is a single-elimination bracket, meaning teams that lose are eliminated. 

The four teams left standing after the quarterfinals advance to the semifinals. Teams are reseeded for the semifinal round, so a team from Pool A could face a team from Pool D for the first time in the semifinal. Once again, games are single-elimination.

The two teams that advance to the final will play one winner-take-all game to determine the champion.

Previous World Baseball Classic winners

Since the first World Baseball Classic in 2006, three countries have won the championship. Here are the winners — and runners-up — from the five previous editions of the WBC.

2006: Japan defeated Cuba 10-6
2009: Japan defeated South Korea 5-3
2013: Dominican Republic defeated Puerto Rico 3-0
2017: United States defeated Puerto Rico 8-0
2023: Japan defeated United States 3-2

Japan has won three of the five World Baseball Classics, with the Dominican Republic and the United States taking the other two editions of the tournament.

Christopher Pasatieri via Getty Images

2026 World Baseball Classic rosters

Many MLB superstars have committed to the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Team USA will feature MLB stars including Aaron Judge, Paul Skenes, Bryce Harper and Bobby Witt Jr. A full rundown of Team USA's roster can be viewed here. 

Japan should also have plenty of MLB talent once again, led by Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Ohtani, however, will not pitch in the event. Team Japan will also feature Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki and new MLB additions Kazuma Okamoto and Munetaka Murakami.

The Dominican Republic is also loaded with talent. Juan Soto, Fernando Tatis Jr. and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. are among the MLB stars playing for the country in 2026. They'll be joined by Brayan Bello, Sandy Alcantara, Ketel Marte and Julio Rodriguez, among others.

Mexico and Venezuela also have some MLB stars on their rosters. Mexico will feature Alejandro Kirk, Jarren Duran and Randy Arozarena. Venezuela will have Ronald Acuña Jr., Jackson Chourio and Salvador Perez.

MLB players will appear across the rest of the WBC rosters, too. Nolan Arenado will play for Puerto Rico, which will be without Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa due to insurance issues. Vinnie Pasquantino will play for Team Italy. Jose Quintana will play for Colombia. And Liam Hendriks will take the mound for Australia.

For a comprehensive list of MLB players in the 2026 WBC, go here.

How to watch the 2026 World Baseball Classic

World Baseball Classic games will air on FOX Media in 2026. Games will appear on FOX, FS1, FS2, the FOX Sports App, FOX One and Tubi. FOX Deportes will carry 28 games in Spanish during the event. 

The 2026 World Baseball Classic championship game will be broadcast on FOX.

The NFL scouting combine is underway in Indianapolis. One of the challenges prospects face is the bench press. That would be to do as many reps of 225 pounds as possible. It isn't easy no matter what position for a player or their size. However, there have been some who have wowed everyone with their feats of strength. Will anyone set a mark for reps in the 2026 NFL combine? What are the most in the history of the event? Who are the prospects who did more than 40?

Igor Olshansky: 2004

Reps: 41

Terna Nande: 2006

Reps: 41

David Molk: 2012

Reps: 41

Jordan Roos: 2017

Reps: 41

Vita Vea: 2018

Reps: 41

Isaac Sopoaga: 2004

Reps: 42

Tank Tyler: 2007

Reps: 42

Russell Bodine: 2014

Reps: 42

Harrison Phillips

Reps: 42

Larry Allen: 1994

Reps: 43

Scott Young: 2005

Reps: 43

Brodrick Bunkley: 2006

Reps: 44

Jeff Owens: 2010

Reps: 44

Dontari Poe: 2012

Reps: 44

Netane Muti: 2020

Reps: 44

Mike Kudla: 2006

Reps: 45

Mitch Petrus: 2010

Reps: 45

Leif Larsen: 2000

Reps: 45

Stephen Paea: 2011

Reps: 49

Justin Ernest: 1999

Reps: 51

This article originally appeared on The List Wire: Most bench press reps at NFL scouting combine

Like many United States hockey fans, I grew up loving Miracle. I wasn't born yet when the United States stunned the Soviet Union en route to the gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics, but I knew the story as if it were my own lived memory.

I was, however, alive for Sidney Crosby's golden goal for Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics that took down the United States. As a teenage Philadelphia Flyers fan who saw her greatest NHL rival score for her greatest international rival, the goal broke my heart. I had suffered many disappointing sports results before and have since, but none have stuck with me the way Crosby's goal has over the years.

So, to see the United States men's hockey team finally win Olympic gold in my lifetime was a dream come true. What has happened since has been nothing short of a disappointment.

As the celebrations from the 2-1 overtime win over Canada spilled off the ice and behind closed doors, FBI director Kash Patel joined Team USA in the locker room in a leaked video that has since gone viral. In the video, Patel is seen celebrating and drinking beer with the team, whose victory came on the same day an armed man breached the perimeter at President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago property. The FBI has since taken the lead investigating the incident.

Then, in another video posted amidst the postgame celebrations, Patel was seen holding up a cell phone to the hockey team for a call with President Trump. Included in the call is a moment where Trump and the team seemingly share a laugh about having to invite the United States women's team — who also won gold against Canada — to the White House as well.

all of them laughing about inviting the women’s team. every single one of them pic.twitter.com/fspZvWwlZv

— greta theft autumn ✿ (@2007warpedtour) February 23, 2026

President Trump: We'll do it at the White House... we'll just have some fun, we have medals for you guys. And we have to, I must tell you, we're going to have to bring the women's team, you do know that?

United States men's hockey team: [Laughter and cheers]

Trump: I do believe I probably would be impeached, okay?

Team: [More laughter]

I'm sure I'm not the only one that feels as if a bucket of cold water has been dumped on your head after listening to that exchange.

Let's take a step back for a second. The 2026 Winter Olympics was a record-breaking one for the United States. In Milan and Cortina, the United States won 12 gold medals, the most ever for the country in a winter Olympics. Of those 12 golds, eight were won by women. Alysa Liu won the United States' first women's individual gold in figure skating since Sarah Hughes in 2002. Bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor became the oldest Winter Olympian to win an individual gold at age 41. Mikaela Shiffrin took home gold in the women's slalom, completing her redemption tour after failing to medal in Beijing in 2022.

As for hockey, Hilary Knight is now the all-time leading point scorer and goal scorer for the United States after her tying tally in the gold medal game. Laila Edwards also became the first Black woman to win gold in hockey for the United States after the team's dramatic 2-1 overtime victory.

So much of the success Team USA had at these Olympics was at the hands of women. But, for most of the Games, the White House has either been silent in the face of these victories or has actively disparaged athletes that have spoken out against the United States politically. It wasn't until the men's hockey team won gold over its long-standing rival that the Trump administration decided to hand out praise and victory calls.

Given the NHL reportedly has the second-highest percentage of right-leaning athletes out of the five major sports leagues in the United States, it shouldn't come as a surprise.

If you’re a long-time fan, you knew that hockey culture would rear its ugly head again. In 2023, multiple NHL players declined to wear Pride Night jerseys in a move that ultimately saw the league ban specialty warmup jerseys. The Chicago Blackhawks sexual assault scandal rocked the NHL in 2021, but multiple members of the organization in Stan Bowman, Joel Quenneville and Kevin Cheveldayoff have either retained their jobs or have gotten new ones in the years since the news broke.

And, just last October, the Vegas Golden Knights signed free agent goaltender Carter Hart. Hart was one of the five players found not guilty on sexual assault charges in the Hockey Canada sexual assault case that had two juries dismissed before a verdict was reached.

This is just the latest blow to the NHL's often-mocked motto of "hockey is for everyone". For fans, it's yet another example of the "best sport, worst league" adage ringing true once more.

But hockey has had an unprecedented pop culture surge recently in the form of Heated Rivalry, which has brought in droves of women and members of the LGBTQ+ community to hockey's doorstep. Not only that, USA hockey star Quinn Hughes became an internet sensation these Olympics after acknowledging his hilarious vacant, seeing-ghosts stare that has captured many people's hearts.

With hockey at the peak of its popularity in the pop culture zeitgeist, the United States men's team failed to meet the moment and then some.

It's especially disappointing considering the lip service the men's team paid to the women throughout the Olympics. Multiple members of the men's team attended games in support of their Team USA peers, and Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk both had high praise for the United States women in their pursuit of gold.

Auston Matthews: "Watching them, being around them, they're a very determined group. There's a lot of high-end players there. Some girls that have been around for a little bit & some that are coming up that are extremely impressive. We're rooting for them big on Thursday." https://t.co/B9z3Oq7V6B

— Mark Masters (@markhmasters) February 18, 2026

And after the gold medal game, Jack Hughes told NHL reporter Jackie Redmond that Megan Keller was the first person on his mind after scoring the golden goal for the United States. Just a few days prior, Keller was the hero for the United States women with her overtime goal against Canada.

The Hughes brothers also have a deep connection to the United States women's hockey program. Their mother, Ellen Weinberg-Hughes, was part of the US women's national team that won silver at the 1992 world championships. Since then, Weinberg-Hughes has been a player development consultant for the United States women's national team and no doubt contributed to the gold medal the team won at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

All of that feels so hollow now in the face of the team's embarrassing postgame moments with Patel and Trump. To laugh at a joke disparaging your United States teammates and peers who won the same accomplishments as you just a few days prior is incredibly disappointing behavior.

It leaves such a sour taste to the end of what has been an exceptional Olympics, not just for the United States but the entire world. The Olympics bring people together from different backgrounds, cultures and locations to celebrate great achievements in sport. Every handful of years, we are treated to some of the most thrilling victories and crushing defeats imaginable, all wrapped up in poignant human emotion.

Since winning gold at these Olympics, Alysa Liu has gone viral for her joyous, carefree attitude that shone through in her free skate performance. Liu's overt joy in her body language and her words has been such a breath of fresh air in a sport that is often cruel if you bring less than your absolute best. It's a message that has reverberated outside of sports too, as people have taken Liu's approach to mental health and have applied it to their own lives.

On the Olympic stage, it's not just about sports. The United States men's hockey team showed that themselves as they brought Johnny Gaudreau's jersey onto the ice to celebrate as a tribute to his passing back in 2024. The team even brought his children out to take part in the celebratory on-ice team photo.

Zach Werenski and Dylan Larkin brought Johnny Gaudreau's children on the ice for their gold medal photo ❤️ 🥇 pic.twitter.com/qBrr9esL77

— ESPN (@espn) February 22, 2026

That is what the lasting message of this hockey team should have been. Not laughing at jokes about their peers, not going mask off after the doors close, but a celebration of life, of joy and of a teammate that tragically passed away way too soon.

In NBC's final sign off after the game as the team was still celebrating on the ice, Mike Tirico had touching words to say on the lasting legacy of this game for those who were watching.

"So, for all the young people. Not just the hockey, but all the Olympics you've watched: Those dreams are formed now," Tirico said. "Go chase them and go get them; because our country loves sports and it brings us together unlike anything else.

"And if you didn't know that," he added, "if you haven't been watching the last two weeks, you saw it in Team USA hockey."

This article originally appeared on For The Win: The USA men’s hockey team utterly failed to meet the cultural moment

The U.S. Women’s Hockey Team declined an invite to President Donald Trump‘s State of the Union address on Monday, shortly after a clip of Trump making light of the women’s team made the rounds.

Both American squads won gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, taking down the Canadian team in their respective finals. On Sunday, Trump invited the men’s team to his annual speech and joked about the inclusion of the women’s team.

“I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that,” Trump said, adding that he “probably would be impeached” if he didn’t.

Everything about this is so genuinely gross but the “I guess I have to invite the women’s team too or else I’ll get impeached” is fucking crazy. Britta Curl is that your boy? Abbey Murphy you cool with this? pic.twitter.com/dTgpBF7hda

— Maya🇵🇸🇱🇧 (@ilyasamsHOEnov) February 23, 2026

Trump celebrated the men’s hockey win on social media, lauding the team on Truth Social after their overtime victory.

“Congratulations to our great U.S.A. Ice Hockey team. THEY WON THE GOLD. WOW!” he wrote.

When the women’s team won just days earlier, Trump remained silent.

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On Monday, the women’s team shared in a statement that they would not be attending the State of the Union. The statement made no mention of Trump’s comments, citing “academic and professional commitments” for the athletes’ decision.

“We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal–winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement,” a USA Hockey spokesperson said. “Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate.”

The post U.S. Women’s Hockey Team declines Trump invite to State of the Union appeared first on Salon.com.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have plenty of roster needs to address in the upcoming free agency period, particularly at safety, where there are a few key names to watch closely.

Currently, the Steelers have Jalen Ramsey and potentially DeShon Elliott atop the safety depth chart, but Bryan Cook of the Kansas City Chiefs would make an ideal acquisition for Pittsburgh’s defense.

Stats

2022 (16 games): 0 interceptions, 2 passes defended, 33 combined tackles2023 (12 games): 1 interception, 2 passes defended, 42 combined tackles2024 (17 games): 2 interceptions, 5 passes defended, 78 combined tackles2025 (17 games): 0 interceptions, 6 passes defended, 85 combined tackles

Fit with Steelers defense

With Chuck Clark and Kyle Dugger scheduled to hit free agency in March, as well as questions surrounding Elliott's availability after missing most of the 2025 season with a knee injury, Cook would pair nicely with Ramsey as Pittsburgh's starting safety duo.

One of the league's top safeties last season against both the run and the pass, Cook possesses a versatile skill set that allows him to line up in the box, at nickel, or as the deep safety, which could help Pittsburgh's secondary rebound in a big way in 2026.

Contract prediction

We at Steelers Wire predict Cook, projected by Spoctrac to command an average annual value of $14.2 million, could sign a four-year, $60 million contract in free agency.

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

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers 2026 free agency scouting report: Chiefs S Bryan Cook

Stephen Curry could become Klay Thompson's teammate again, but not on the Warriors originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It has been a fascinating season on and off the court for Stephen Curry. The Golden State Warriors' longtime superstar guard has been nursing a knee injury of late, but at 37 years old, he is averaging 27.2 points per game on a Warriors team that largely appears locked in to a Play-In Tournament spot.

Off the court, Curry in November split with longtime sneaker partner Under Armour, where he had been under contract since 2013. The breakup has gotten a bit acrimonious; Sole Retriever reported last week that Under Armour had "migrated" the vast majority of Curry Brand's Instagram followers to their basketball-specific account

MORE: Klay Thompson just signed a lifetime contract but not with the Warriors or Mavericks

Curry remains a sneaker free agent, but Sole Retriever reported Monday that he has narrowed his search down to three brands. Anta, the Chinese brand that has a long affiliation with Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson, is one of the finalists.

Uniting Curry and Thompson under the same roof again, four years after they won their fourth NBA championship together with the Warriors, would be tremendously appealing for Anta, which signed Thompson to a "lifetime" contract extension earlier this month.

The chance of this reunion happening gained traction over the NBA All-Star break, when Curry was seen working out in a pair of Anta shoes -- with the Curry brand logo emblazoned on them.

Steph was spotted during ASW wearing a pair of the ANTA Enclosion Type 2 with his Curry Brand logo on the heel 👀🤔 @StephenCurry30pic.twitter.com/jrY4UGhxod

— Sole Retriever (@SoleRetriever) February 22, 2026

More NBA news:

• Lakers projected to have absurd amount of money to spend to build championship roster around Luka Doncic

• Kevin Durant plus 11 more roster predictions for USA men's basketball at 2028 Olympics

• Michael Jordan was supposed to boost NBC’s NBA coverage. Instead, he’s barely there

• Giannis Antetokounmpo jokingly recruits NBA star as injuries and contracts shape two franchises

After two consecutive weeks of standing put at No. 17, St. John’s finally enjoyed upward movement in the AP Top 25 men’s basketball poll.

The Red Storm jumped two spots to No. 15 in the latest poll released on Monday afternoon, overtaking Texas Tech and North Carolina after they suffered road losses to unranked teams during the week. They were also ranked 15th in the USA Today Coaches Poll.

St. John’s is coming off another undefeated week that included a six-point win over Marquette and a 29-point drubbing of Creighton at home. As winners of their last 13 games, the Red Storm currently own the second-longest winning streak in Division I men’s college basketball, and the longest among power-conference teams. The Red Storm’s 15-1 record in Big East play is the program’s best mark through 16 conference games since the 1984-85 team, which went to the Final Four.

Conference rival UConn dropped one spot to No. 6 following their shocking 91-84 upset loss to Creighton last Wednesday. St. John’s and UConn were the only two Big East teams ranked for a fifth consecutive week. Villanova received 15 points in the poll, which was the third-highest total among unranked teams receiving votes.

The 15th-ranked Red Storm will take on the UConn Huskies (25-3, 15-2 Big East) on Wednesday, February 25 at PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford, Connecticut. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., and the game can be streamed on Peacock.

As spring camp draws near, we enter the home stretch of the new faces around Austin. Today, it’s all about the Miami product on the defensive line, James Johnson. The former Georgia commit flipped to the Longhorns in July and has now made his way to Austin. He joins one of the best and deepest DL rooms in the country and continues Kenny Baker’s streak on the recruiting trail. 

Highschool Stats: 101 tackles, 42 TFLs, 12 sacks in two seasons 

Johnson joins the Longhorns from the Sunshine State, joining the parade of elite Florida products to come to Texas. He comes in at 6’3”, 285lbs with elite athletic ability and explosivity. The negative from his high school career has been health. He missed time in his junior and senior seasons with lower body injuries, something that’ll likely need time to get to 100%. He’ll be granted that time with the talent in front of him in the DT/EDGE room. 

Texas flips blue chip DL James Johnson from Georgia 🤘 pic.twitter.com/mOfflilFGN

— John Burrows (@JohnBurrowsCFB) July 15, 2025

Johnson, like many of the Longhorns class, has a longer timeline. He’s unlikely to see the field much, if at all, in 2026 but could factor into the rotation in 2027. He’ll have a prime chance to get healthy, learn from the likes of Hero Kanu and Alex January and hit the ground running this time next year. Now, he could move out and fit into the Justus Terry role in Will Muschamp’s offense. That’ll show itself but the future is bright for Johnnson. 

Welcome to the Forty, @JamesJohnson_52 🤘#AllGas26 | #NSD26pic.twitter.com/bGqDS9TrCG

— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) December 3, 2025

Johnson will be given plenty of time to adapt to college football and find his footing. Rocky Cummings enters a LB room that is searching for depth and he’ll have a chance to immediately step up. We’ll get into the Carlsbad product who could surprise some Longhorns fans this spring.

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Fresh Faces on the Forty: Johnson adds more athleticism to DL room

The NFL offseason is in full swing, where teams are looking to accomplish what the Seattle Seahawks did in winning the Super Bowl, which involves improving the roster through free agency, the NFL draft and trades. For the Chicago Bears, that could be the difference in another second-round exit, winning the Super Bowl, or taking a step backward.

Heading into the offseason, the Bears have a few glaring needs -- the defensive line (both tackle and end), safety and left tackle. Some may think one is more important than the other, but the truth is, they probably need to address all of them if they want to have success again in 2026. 

While the Bears appeared to have found a potential left tackle of the future in rookie Ozzy Trapilo, he suffered a ruptured patellar tendon during the wild-card playoffs that will sideline him for an unknown amount of time. That means Chicago needs to find a solution at left tackle, be it short-term or long-term.

Trapilo really started to grasp the position as a rookie, but now he’s going through a very difficult recovery process. Free agent Braxton Jones is not likely to return, and while Theo Benedet will be back in 2026, he's not the long-term answer.

The good news is the other four positions on the offensive line are set, which leaves an important hole to fill at left tackle. Chicago should think long and hard about addressing it in a big way. 

No rule says that the Bears can’t address both the defensive line and left tackle. Elite resources should be used on both. They revamped most of their offensive line last offseason; there is no reason they can’t do that to their defensive line this time around while also addressing left tackle.

If the Bears add a star pass rusher, it will take some pressure off Montez Sweat and likely increase his production. In doing so, they will have the pass rush needed for the defense to take a step forward. They were turnover merchants in 2025, and that allowed them to win a few extra games. Repeating that turnover margin in 2026 is unlikely, so getting the pass rush going is a must.

If the Bears address one issue and not the other, they may find themselves looking for answers at the end of next season. At that point, the fresh new smell will be gone. The 2026 season is about competing for the big prize, winning the Super Bowl. Failing to at least make a run will be a massive disappointment.

If Chicago doesn't solidify left tackle and add significant help to the defensive line, they are down a bad path. There are plenty of avenues (NFL draft, free agency, trades) to get this done. It's on general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson to find the right help.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears need to prioritize left tackle this 2026 offseason

Rodri has had to battle through the first half of this season to return to his best for Manchester City. You could see and sense Rodri’s frustration as niggling injuries and rust prevented him from having a bigger impact during the early stages of the 2025/26 season. Pep Guardiola told the media ahead of Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Newcastle that City had rushed their midfield general back too early and they’d expected too much from a player who was coming from a long way back in terms of his fitness. Watching Rodri recently, it is clear that he is getting back to his best, which could be crucial to Manchester City’s Premier League title bid.

Pep Guardiola has shared that Manchester City brought Rodri back too soon but he is now getting back to his best.

Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s win over Newcastle, in quotes relayed by ESPN, Pep Guardiola explained that Rodri was thrust into action too soon earlier this season. The Manchester City manager revealed: “He came back too early. Our desire to get him back, him especially, he came back early, that’s why it was longer. It’s a good lesson.”

“Human beings have a time for recovery. There are players who can recover earlier, like Bernardo [Silva] for example or Phil [Foden], and other ones need more time. Still it’s not his best but every time his mood and his training and his playing [is improving]. He’s a special player.”

Pep Guardiola’s assessment illustrates just how much time Rodri needed to get back to his best. The Spanish midfielder needed time to get his body right. He was provided that opportunity earlier this season, and you can now see the benefits of Rodri’s period of rest.

Rodri was superb for Manchester City against Newcastle. He played a key role in Manchester City’s attacking play, and his ability to spread the play with his cross-field passing was a key element in City’s performance. Manchester City picked up a vital win at the Etihad, and Rodri’s influence in City’s win could not be overlooked. Rodri has battled his way back to his best, and as this season enters a critical phase, Manchester City’s midfield general looks poised to play a key role for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Rodri’s influence will be massive for City across the back end of this season.

Playing in midfield alongside Bernardo Silva and Nico O’Reilly has allowed Rodri to get back to his best, as has a significant period out of the team to rest his body. Now, with Pep Guardiola’s side in four competitions up to their necks, Rodri’s influence will be massive for Manchester City.

Rodri remains one of, if not the best, holding midfielders in European football. That fact has remained while Rodri battled his way back to full fitness. In terms of players who can dictate a match for Manchester City, there almost isn’t another City player who can consistently dominate and influence a match like Rodri can. Manchester City needs Rodri to provide leadership and control the midfield in their upcoming matches. Now that the Ballon d’Or winner looks back to his best, he looks set to do exactly that over the back end of this season.

Rodri has worked his way back from a long way back to resemble the Ballon d’Or winner that he is. That could be crucial to Manchester City’s bid to win multiple competitions this season and with Rodri at his best anything is possible for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Juventus and Galatasaray face off this Wednesday at the Juventus Stadium in UEFA Champions League.

Last time out, Juventus slipped to a 0-2 defeat against Como 1907 (Serie A 2025/26). In their last encounter, Galatasaray were beaten 2-0 by Konyaspor (Turkey Super Lig 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended with Galatasaray winning 5-2.

Unavailable

Juventus

Galatasaray

• Metehan Baltacı - Suspension Through Sports Court

Last starting XIs

Juventus ( vs Como 1907 2026-02-21): Michele Di Gregorio, Federico Gatti, Lloyd Kelly, Teun Koopmeiners, Weston McKennie, Khéphren Thuram, Manuel Locatelli, Andrea Cambiaso, Fabio Miretti, Lois Openda, Kenan Yildiz

Galatasaray ( vs Konyaspor 2026-02-21): Uğurcan Çakır, Sacha Boey, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Wilfried Singo, Evren Elmali, Gabriel Sara, Mario Lemina, Leroy Sané, Yunus Akgün, Roland Sallai, Mauro Icardi

Did you know...by playmaker stats

MANAGERS

• Luciano Spalletti faced Okan Buruk on one occasion, recording a loss.
• Okan Buruk faced Juventus on one occasion, recording a win.
• Luciano Spalletti faced Galatasaray on one occasion, recording a loss.

TEAMS

• Away from home, Galatasaray currently has one draw in the last 16 matches.
• Galatasaray currently has one loss in the last six matches.
• Galatasaray has conceded goals in three consecutive matches.
• At home, Juventus currently has one loss in the last 18 matches.
• At home, Juventus is coming off two consecutive games without a win.
• Juventus currently has one win in the last seven matches.
• Juventus has conceded goals in six consecutive matches.
• Juventus is coming off five consecutive games without a win.
• Juventus is coming off three consecutive losses.

HEAD TO HEAD

• Juventus and Galatasaray have faced each other seven times, with Galatasaray having the advantage: three wins, against one victory for Juventus.
• At the Juventus Stadium, Juventus has an advantage in the duels against Galatasaray: one win in three matches. Galatasaray has never won on Juventus' ground, with two draws recorded.
• In the Champions League, seven matches were played between the two teams, with Juventus winning once, three draws and three victories for Galatasaray.

There has been a changing of the guard in Ann Arbor, and with that, there have been a lot of changes to the coaching staff.

With Kyle Whittingham taking over the Michigan football program, he mostly cleaned house, but initially kept two coaches (running backs coach Tony Alford and defensive line coach Lou Esposito) before Esposito chose to try his hand at the NFL, following Jesse Minter to Baltimore. But otherwise, everyone else above the line is out.

However, three of Michigan's other eight position coaches found new homes in the past 24 hours.

On Sunday, though it had been previously reported, it was officially announced that secondary coach LaMar Morgan is bound for Norman, taking on the cornerbacks coach position with Oklahoma. That means he will return to The Big House in Week 2 in the 2026 season.

Welcome to Norman, @coachdmc and @CoachLMorgan!

🔗 » https://t.co/7bNf2vLYmApic.twitter.com/PuJtuZCdvV

— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) February 22, 2026

He's not the only one to land a job in short order.

On Monday, Texas announced its entire coaching staff, above and below the line, and two Michigan position coaches ended up in Austin (on the other side of the Red River Rivalry). Per the update, former tight ends coach and co-offensive coordinator Steve Casula as well as Texas native and special teams coach JB Brown have been hired as analysts for the Longhorns.

Excited to announce new additions and staff promotions within our football program 🤘 pic.twitter.com/7fcvMZxAoW

— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) February 23, 2026

Here is where every assistant from last year's team has landed:

• Offensive coordinator - Chip Lindsey (Missouri)
• Offensive line - Grant Newsome (New York Giants - asst. OL coach)
• Wide receivers - Ron Bellamy (unknown)
• Tight Ends - Steve Casula (Texas - analyst)
• Running backs - Tony Alford (Michigan)
• Defensive coordinator - Wink Martindale (unknown)
• Defensive line - Lou Esposito (Baltimore Ravens)
• Linebackers - Brian Jean-Mary (Notre Dame)
• Defensive backs - LaMar Morgan (Oklahoma - cornerbacks)
• Special teams - JB Brown (Texas - analyst)

This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Michigan football: Where former coaches landed after changes

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The U.S. men’s hockey team’s first Olympic gold medal since the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” had a significant impact on North American sports betting operators.

Key Takeaways

• The USA-Canada men’s final was one of the most-bet hockey games ever at DraftKings.
  
  
• FanDuel reported that over two-thirds of the moneyline wagers were on the U.S.
  
  
• One Canadian operator was saved by Team USA’s overtime win.

The 2-1 overtime thriller over Canada in Sunday’s early-morning, dramatic finale was a huge hit with bettors.

“Despite the early start time for our customers, the Men’s Gold Medal game generated tremendous betting activity - ranking among the most-bet hockey games in DraftKings Sportsbook history,” Johnny Avello, the director of DraftKings Sportsbook, told Covers on Monday. “As expected, Team USA drew strong support from our American customers, while Canada saw significant backing from customers in Ontario.” 

Unforgettable finish

Sunday’s final put hockey on a big stage, and the game didn’t disappoint. 

“This was an outstanding Olympic tournament capped by a thrilling gold-medal matchup, and the momentum from this game should carry into the remainder of the NHL season and through the Stanley Cup Playoffs,” Avello said.

The favorite to capture Gold before the Olympics began earlier this month, the Canadian team entered the final against the U.S. at -125 on the moneyline, with the American squad listed at +105. 

FanDuel reported that 77% of the wagers and 70% of the handle backed the U.S. The operator had to pay out the vast majority of bets when Jack Hughes snuck the puck between goalie Jordan Binnington’s legs less than two minutes into 3-on-3 OT hockey.   

USA needed a finisher. Jack Hughes delivered. #WinterOlympicspic.twitter.com/DBWsSAEXbe

— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) February 22, 2026

Dagger to Canada

North of the border, BET99 said it took a ton of action in Ontario in many forms, including odds boosts and specials, for months, creating “significant liability.”

“That exposure only grew when Canada went down a goal early, and bettors jumped on inflated in-play prices that topped out at +200 before (Cale) Makar evened the score at 1-1,” BET99 Sportsbook manager Cliff Adelman told Covers on Monday. “Unsurprisingly, Canadian pride showed at the betting window. From puck drop to Jack Hughes' OT dagger, 95% of live bets backed Canada to win.” 

That saved the operator from a massive loss with Canada getting Silver, but it put BET99 in a precarious position. 

“While BET99 trading team sported Team Canada jerseys and shared the same tension as our players with every missed opportunity, the final result brought a welcome sigh of relief from a (profit-and-loss) perspective,” Adelman said. “It was a classic case of patriotic money pouring in and a reminder that when Canada plays for gold, the betting action follows.”

Futures liability

As big a win as it was for the Americans, it was as disappointing for Team Canada and its betting backers. BetMGM listed the Canadian superteam with odds of +115 to capture gold right before the start of the Olympics. Canada was getting 45.4% of the handle and 42% of the tickets. 

By the time they reached the semifinals, the odds were down to -130. 

A scare from Slovakia might’ve given futures bettors cause for concern, but on paper, Canada was still the best team. However, the U.S. squad wasn’t too far behind. BetMGM listed the Americans second at +200 before the tournament, when they were getting 36.6% of the wagers and 48.5% of the money.

By the time the U.S. team reached the semifinals against Sweden, the odds were down to +125, and the Americans surpassed Canada with 59.3% of the bets. The Canadian team held 55.3% of the money, but Team USA was the bigger liability.

Connor McDavid is the MVP of men's Olympic tournament! 🇨🇦

McDavid was (+600) to win the award pre-tournament.

2024 Conn Smythe Trophy 🟰 Loss in SCF
2026 Olympic MVP 🟰 Loss in Gold Medal Game pic.twitter.com/mKBHlpa84d

— BET99 Ontario (@BET99ON) February 22, 2026

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Let's start off this week's edition of 'Winners and Losers' by just applauding the minds behind the Atlanta reconfiguration. The new version of this historic track has quickly asserted itself as one of the best on the schedule, and consistently puts on the most exciting races. On Sunday, 14 different drivers took a turn out front with a record 57 lead changes.

And despite all of the chaos and carnage, it was the exact same result as one week ago as Michael Jordan and Tyler Redddick celebrated the win, further extending their advantage in the championship standings.

As is the case with many of these chaotic races, we couldn't possibly include every winner and loser, but here's a look at some of the biggest and most interesting winners/losers from a sensational race around EchoPark Speedway: 

WINNER: Tyler Reddick has no fender, and that's no problem

Watch: Reddick on second win: 'Sometimes things are just meant to be'

Reddick's Atlanta win might actually be more impressive than his dramatic Daytona 500 triumph. The #45 car was wrecked, spinning down the frontstretch with its right-front fender completely missing within 50 laps of the finish. And yet, the team bolted fresh tires to the wounded car and Reddick stormed back through the field. He went from being the pusher on an overtime restart to driving off with the win, going back-to-back in a feat not seen in the NASCAR Cup Series since 2009. 

LOSER: Hocevar's great run gets overshadowed...again

Christopher Bell crashes in overtime restart

Carson Hocevar had another fantastic run on Sunday, and yet another shot at securing his first win in the Cup Series. Ultimately, he finished fourth, but just like last year's race at Atlanta, he didn't reach the checkered flag without ruffling a few feathers. He spun Logano in an honest mistake in the middle of the race, but once he could sniff the race lead in overtime, Hocevar let his aggression get the best of him. He wedged his way between Bell and Wallace seconds into the first overtime restart, and Bell went crashing into the outside wall. And on the final lap, he drove Wallace directly in the wall before driving off with a top-five finish. Based on his recent social posts, he doesn't really care about the run-ins, and that will make for some great television, but it won't make his season any easier on the track.

WINNER: SVG goes off-roading and scores his best oval finish yet

Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

Shane van Gisbergen's best result on an oval in the NASCAR Cup Series was tenth before Atlanta, but now it's sixth. The 3x Supercars champion even got as high as fourth on the final lap, but what made his run more impressive was what he had to battle back from. SVG was moments away from a potential third-place finish in Stage 2 when Kyle Larson came down, sending him through the infield grass (and partially airborne). As the team worked to get the car right after that, SVG spun on his own, taking a second trip through the infield. But despite all that, he still surged forward at the end with fresh tires, and was integral in getting teammate Ross Chastain into a podium spot with a mighty shove at the white flag. Oh, and we're heading to a road course next week...

LOSER: Bubba Wallace and what could have been

Watch: Bubba Wallace left thinking 'what could've been' after EchoPark

It felt like deja vu as Reddick celebrated on the frontstretch while Michael Jordan consoled Wallace in the pit lane, similar to the scene we saw at Daytona one week ago. And while a tough loss at the 500 was due to circumstances beyond Wallace's immediate control, he was surely kicking himself after Atlanta. The #23 was in control with teammate Reddick pushing, but when they got clear of the outside line, Wallace went up in front of the ever-aggressive Hocevar, and he nearly went all the way to the wall, giving Hocevar and pusher Chastain just enough room to shuffle him out of line. While he finished a disappointing eighth, the good news is that Wallace is second in the championship standings. But as Reddick celebrates back-to-back wins, Wallace knows just how close he was to standing in his place in Victory Lane.

WINNER: Daniel Suarez shines at Spire

Daniel Suarez, Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

After a top five run in the Bowman Gray exhibition race, Suarez has hit the ground running with Spire Motorsports. He avoided the last-lap wreck at Daytona to bring home the team's best finish, and then pushed Hocevar to a double top-five for the team at Atlanta. Suarez now sits inside the top ten in points, and seems to be gelling nicely with his new team.

LOSER: Kyle Larson's race-ending error

Kyle Larson crash damage, No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

Larson took full responsibility for this, admitting he 'screwed up' on the final lap of Stage 2. Larson was in the top line through Turn 4 with the green-and-white checkered flag in sight, but he chose to cut all the way down to the bottom. He did this while unaware of SVG, who had just charged by multiple cars and was now to Larson's inside. Contact was made, and Larson violently slammed the outside wall, costing him a lot of points and ending a promising day. Larson's race ended over 100 laps shy of the finish, but he still led more laps than anyone besides the race winner.

WINNER: Zane Smith quietly remains top five in the standings

Zane Smith, Front Row Motorsports Ford

No one is really talking about the FRM driver, but they should be. He had a shot to win the Daytona 500 after winning a stage in the season-opener, ultimately finishing sixth and avoiding the frontstretch melee. At Atlanta, he finished an impressive seventh with another clean run that now has him fifth in the championship standings. It's early days, but still a great start for the No. 38 team. Last year, he led just 22 laps and scored five top tens, but after just two races in 2026, he's at ten laps led and two top tens. Smith is well on his way to having his best season yet in the Cup Series if he can keep it up.

LOSER: All the drivers already falling behind in the points

Christopher Bell, No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota; Alex Bowman, No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

Speaking of the points, there's some very notable drivers facing fairly deep holes already in the 2026 season. Bell wrecked from the front row in overtime, and that combined with another late-race crash at the 500 means he is 31st in points right now. And even with just 25 points scored through the first two races, there's several other big name drivers in worse spots. Alex Bowman sits 32nd in the No. 48 Hendrick Chevy, Bell's JGR teammate Ty Gibbs is 33rd, Austin Dillon 34th, Todd Gilliland 35th, and rising star Connor Zilisch is 36th -- last among full-time drivers after two wrecks to start his rookie campaign. 

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

RB Bragantino announced the punishment of defender Gustavo Marques for his sexist remarks following the defeat and subsequent elimination against São Paulo.

On that occasion, Gustavo Marques said that referee Daiane Muniz should not "officiate a game of this magnitude," referring to the quarterfinal match of the Paulistão.

This Monday (23), RB Bragantino stated that Gustavo Marques will receive a fine amounting to 50% of his total earnings.

In addition, the defender will not be included in the squad for the match against Athletico, at 7:00 PM on Wednesday (25), at Cícero de Souza.

Besides the punishment imposed by the club, Gustavo Marques may also be punished by the Sports Justice system.

According to CNN, the defender may be charged under Article 243-G of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD).

The article mentions "committing a discriminatory, disdainful, or outrageous act, related," among others, to prejudice based on sex."

The penalty in such cases is a suspension of five to ten matches, in addition to a fine ranging from R$ 100 to R$ 100,000.

Featured photo: Ari Ferreira/RB Bragantino

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

The Los Angeles Dodgers may need to get ready for starting pitcher Blake Snell to miss the start of the season as his ramp-up for the season progresses slowly.

According to The Athletic’s Katie Woo, Snell is throwing off the flat ground, but he is still far from getting ready for a true start, with a little more than a month left until the season starts.

“Time’s ticking, but like I told him the other day, Opening Day is not necessarily a hard and fast target for us,” manager Dave Roberts said.

Snell is known for starting slow, especially given his injury-prone nature, but then pushing things up in the second half of the season.

Last season, Snell got injured early, battling with shoulder discomfort, and missing the first half, stretching the team’s depth amid a run of injuries.

However, the lefty was more than ready for the actual start of the postseason stretch, being the dominant, front-of-the-line starter that the team needed, especially with a weak bullpen.

Blake Snell learned his lesson in 2025

Snell does not seem concerned about his slow start, expressing confidence that he understands his body and is in no rush to return to the mound.

After seemingly rushing back, the Cy Young award winner wants to take things slowly.

“I’ve been playing catch, been throwing. It feels good,” Snell said at DodgerFest.

“But I’m just going to take my time. Last year, I was rushing. I wanted to pitch so bad. But I’m going to take my time. The goal is to be ready Opening Day, but I’m going to take my time. I’ll know more once I’m [at Spring Training], throwing bullpens, pitching in games.

“Last year, I had so much to prove. I got way too excited and was really pushing to get to spring, get through spring. This year, I’m going to be a little slower just in how I ramp up — be a lot more smarter on that.”

The Dodgers, meanwhile, enter the season with as much pitching depth as ever, and that will allow Roberts and the organization to give Snell all the room that he needs.

“Whatever is best for Blake — or any of our pitchers, for that matter — we’re going to do,” Roberts said.

“Where he’s at, once we get to Spring Training and how his arm feels, there’s a buildup from there. If it doesn’t line up with Opening Day, the first series, then it doesn’t.”

Over the last month, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, better known as ICE, has become entangled with pro wrestling, most notably thanks to AEW star Brody King, who's anti-ICE activism has translated into anti-ICE chants on AEW programming. Now, another ICE/wrestling related story has emerged, and it's one that will do little to quell the anti-ICE chants at AEW shows or other wrestling events.

Almost two weeks ago, independent wrestler Nicolth Hernandez-Lucero was detained by ICE agents while driving home. The incident was recorded by Hernandez-Lucero's husband Noah Lazega, who was on the phone with her at the time of her arrest. Hernandez-Lucero remains in ICE custody to this day, while Lazega has launched a GoFundMe to help her legal battle; so far, he has raised $20,749 out of a goal of $28,000. Among the most notable names to make donations are former AEW Women's World Champion Kris Statlander, and WWE Women's Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch, under her real name Rebecca Quin.

Hernandez-Lucero first debuted as a wrestler back in 2018, after receiving training from former WWE star Gangrel. She would form a tag team with her sister, Tiffany, called the Lucero Twins, and found singles success in 2019, when she won the GWA Women's Championship for Gangrel's wrestling promotion, the Gangrel Wrestling Asylum. 

It's unclear if Hernandez-Lucero has continued her wrestling career over the last few years, however, as her last recorded match, according to Cagematch, was in 2023, while Lazega's GoFundMe for Hernandez-Lucero describes her as working as a surgical technician. Days after news of Hernandez-Lucero being detained broke, Gangrel took to Facebook to offer support for his student, sharing the link to Lazega's GoFundMe page.

Read more: 6 Wild Interviews Wrestling Stars Did With Howard Stern

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

Jets quarterback plan expected to take shape at NFL Scouting Combine originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Jets are coming off a brutal 2025 season, and Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey might be on the hot seat.

To help cool things down, the Jets need to fix their quarterback room. After taking a $40 million gamble on Justin Fields that didn't work out, the Jets need to find a new offensive leader this offseason. Their plan isn't known just yet.

But, as Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic notes, the Jets' plan at quarterback might take shape at the NFL Scouting Combine. With prospects meeting with teams, and teams all in attendance, the Jets' plan at quarterback could take shape in the next week.

Jets expected to get some answers at QB during NFL Combine

The Jets could wind up taking a rookie in the 2026 draft class, or they could sign or trade for a veteran like Kyler Murray, Malik Willis, or Mac Jones. Their decision could begin taking shape soon.

"If Glenn is on the hot seat, is he more likely make an expensive gamble on someone such as Willis, Jones, or Murray?" Rosenblatt writes. "Some of the answers to those questions will start to take shape in Indianapolis."

The NFL Scouting Combine is a good time for teams to get a lay of the land before the offseason truly begins. This is the first big offseason date for the NFL, and for the Jets, it's a great opportunity to begin formulating a QB plan.

More: Jets urged to 'kick the tires' on trades for Eagles and Texans backup QBs

If the Jets meet with prospects and fall in love with one, they would be able to take them wherever they want with plenty of draft capital.

They could also talk to other teams and get an idea of what it could cost to trade for someone like Murray or Jones, or even someone like Tua Tagovailoa.

But, regardless of what the Jets wind up deciding, the NFL Combine is a huge time for the Jets, as they will likely get a better idea of the QB landscape this offseason at the Combine.

More Jets news:

• New York Jets could sign 1,000-yard receiver with ties to coaching staff in NFL free agency
• Jets linked to Chiefs Super Bowl cornerback as Sauce Gardner replacement
• Jets expected to move on from brother of Quinnen Williams in free agency
• Jets get shaky $13 million contract projection on injury-prone offensive guard
• Jets get good news on Breece Hall amid $12.25 million contract benchmark
• Jets named best fit to poach 5-foot-8 WR from Giants in free agency

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant told ESPN he plans to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. He will turn 40 years old in September 2028 and will be looking to win his fifth Olympic gold medal with Team USA.

“Hell yeah, I want to play,” Durant said, per ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill. “I would love to, but I’ve got to stay on top of my game. I’m not expecting, I want to produce on the floor and make Grant and whoever is making the decisions, want to put me on the team. I don’t want — not just for seniority. I want to still prove I can help the team win.”

“Today, yeah I feel like I’ll put my name in that hat.”

Durant has been Team USA’s leading scorer in three of his four Olympic appearances throughout his career. He broke Team USA’s scoring record with 156 total points and 34 three-pointers at the 2012 London Olympics. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he averaged a US Olympic record 20.7 points per game. 

Durant is the only four-time Olympic gold medalist in men’s basketball history.

Durant Debunked Rumors That 2024 Paris Olympics Were His Last

It was widely believed that the 2024 Paris Olympics would be the last with Durant, LeBron James and Stephen Curry on the squad. While James confirmed he will not participate, Durant and Curry have yet to confirm if they will participate in 2028.

“You guys, the media, have projected that,” Durant told ESPN, per Goodwill. “That narrative, where did the last dance thing come from? I didn’t say I wasn’t playing. LeBron said he wasn’t. You didn’t hear that from me or Steph.”

James could retire as early as the end of the 2025-26 NBA season. Meanwhile, Curry is signed through 2027 with the Golden State Warriors and recently told People Magazine he was not planning to retire in the near future.

“I’ll declare itself, whenever the time comes to call it quits, which I don’t think is anytime soon,” Curry told People.

Durant signed a two-year, $90 million contract extension with the Rockets, which includes a player option for the 2027-28 season, in October.

Photo Credit: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports

The post NBA Star Eyes 2028 LA Olympics Despite Reports Stating 2024 Olympics Were His Last appeared first on LA Sports Report.

The Brazil Women's U-20 National Team is experiencing in the South American Championship the moment that coach Camilla Orlando has emphasized since the beginning: evolution throughout the competition. With each game, Brazil has become more consistent and confident, turning words into performance on the field, which is reflected in results and in the collective strength that has become the team's main trademark. For Camilla Orlando, Brazil’s greatest asset lies precisely in the preparation of the entire group and the shared mentality among the athletes.

The numbers prove this collective strength. Brazil has already had 13 different players score goals in the tournament, highlighting a distributed, unpredictable, and difficult-to-mark attack. The variety of goal scorers shows that the team does not depend on a single athlete and reinforces the confidence built throughout the campaign.

Camilla Orlando during the match against Argentina in the final hexagonal of the South American U-20 ChampionshipCredits: Staff Images / CBF

“Our greatest strength is the power of our group, our squad. Everyone is being prepared to play at any moment, and they have embraced this idea. Even when a player is out, she knows she’ll be ready when the opportunity arises. We’ve had goals from different players, and that is very special,” the coach emphasized.

Among the individual highlights is forward Brendha, Brazil’s top scorer in the competition, with four goals. She is just behind Argentina’s Kishi Núñez, who has one more goal and leads the top scorers’ list in the South American Championship. Even in great form, Brendha made a point of valuing the collective work and the environment built within the group.

Staff

Forward Brendha during a match of the South American U-20 Championship in ParaguayCredits: Staff Images / CBF

“I am very happy with this moment, but none of this would be possible without my teammates, the coaching staff, and everyone who believes in my work. It’s the result of a lot of daily effort, and when the opportunity comes, I try to make the most of it. Scoring for the National Team is a dream for all of us,” she said.

Leader of the final hexagonal, Brazil returns to the field next Wednesday (25th), at 6 p.m., at the Centro de Alto Rendimento de Futebol Feminino Stadium in Paraguay, to face Ecuador, the runner-up in the decisive phase. With a victory, the Brazilian National Team will be very close to securing the title and crowning a campaign marked by the maturity and commitment of a group that has evolved together with each match.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

It is truly just my luck that right after I published last week’s Monday Morning Minnesota, we started getting reports about Pablo Lopez having a potential elbow issue. Now, Pablo is out for the season after undergoing Tommy John surgery, and Joe Ryan was diagnosed with lower back inflammation, which might jeopardize his ability to pitch in the World Baseball Classic. Anyways, keep an eye out for the injury report today for the Twins; I apologize in advance for any misfortune this article may cause.

The Past Week on Twinkie Town:

• Check out The Feed, where you can add your discussions about the Twins!
• We’re starting a new segment called Daily Questions! Provide your opinion on the Twins and debate with the community!
• With spring training underway, game threads are back! Commiserate with your fellow fans as we prepare for Opening Day.
• Matt Monitto helps us keep track of who’s who – numerically speaking – at spring training this year.
• We’re onto Round 17 of Zach Koenig’s Greatest Twins Moments and Performances list.
• James Fillmore brought us another TwinkieTown Movie Night, with noted baseball movie, Back to the Future Part III. We’ve got four more editions, with The Stratton Story coming up this Friday.
• Zach Koenig flashes back to 1996 in Twins history.
• Brandon Brooks is back with another Rival Roundup, checking in on the division in spring training!

Elsewhere in Twins Territory:

• Bobby Nightengale at the Star Tribune looks at how Brooks Lee is preparing for this upcoming season as the Twins’ shortstop.
• Aaron Gleeman at The Athletic evaluates the potential replacements for Pablo Lopez.
• Theo Tollefson at Zone Coverage checks in with Toby Gardenhire in his new role at spring training.

In the World of Baseball:

• The MLBPA’s prep for the upcoming labor negotiations hit a snag as executive director Tony Clark resigned after an internal investigation. Jeff Passan at ESPN examines the fallout from Clark’s resignation and what the union should do in this new chapter.
• The MLB.com beat writers get together and provide one dark horse candidate for each team’s Opening Day roster.
• David Adler at MLB.com gives us 11 players to watch out for at the World Baseball Classic.

Don’t expect George Pickens to become a free agent.